NewzIntel.com

Category: Politics

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Sobyanin: Construction of a school on the territory of the Tushino airfield has been completed

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    A school has been completed on the territory of the former Tushino airfield. The building on Volokolamsk Highway has created a comfortable and safe space for 825 children to study. This was reported in his telegram channel written by Sergei Sobyanin.

    “Universal and specialized classrooms were created for teachers and students, as well as a creative space similar to a university campus with laboratory and research complexes. The central element of the school is the atrium, which can be used as an assembly hall or an event venue. The building’s design is the winner of the 2023 Moscow Architecture and Urban Development Award in the educational facilities category,” said Sergei Sobyanin.

    Source: Sergei Sobyanin’s Telegram channel @mos_sobyanin

    The construction of a new school building at 75v Volokolamskoe Shosse began in May 2022 and was completed in January 2025. It was built at the expense of the investor, Asterus, the developer of the Ália residential complex, which is implementing a project to create a modern residential area with an educational hub on the territory of the former Tushino airfield.

    In addition to the school building, it will include children’s educational routes and a Coastal Park, organized according to the concept of a forest school, where adults and young city residents will be able to gain a variety of experiences interacting with living nature.

    The investor will donate the new educational building to the capital’s education system free of charge; it will become part of the complex of School No. 58.

    School with atrium

    The building was constructed according to the design of an architectural bureau that won the 2023 Moscow City Prize in architecture and urban planning in the nomination “Best Architectural and Urban Planning Solution for a School”.

    The building has four floors and one underground floor. Its area is more than 12 thousand square meters. It has created a comfortable and safe space for studying for 825 schoolchildren of grades 1-11, including a barrier-free environment for children with disabilities.

    The school building fits harmoniously into the surrounding landscape. Visually, it consists of two blocks – for primary and secondary schools. The facades with panoramic windows were made in yellow, white and gray colors to emphasize the features of the complex volumetric composition and highlight large elements in the structure of the building, assembled like a construction set.

    The design of the classrooms differs depending on the age of the students: a more formal design was created for older students and a brighter one for younger students. The walls of the school are decorated with images of function graphs, chains of molecules and diagrams of sound waves. Cryptograms were used in the design of the corridors, which facilitate navigation around the building.

    The central element of the building is the atrium — a multifunctional and multi-light space with increased ceiling height. It can be used as a lecture hall, an assembly hall or a venue for events. In addition, the atrium can serve as a comfortable space for relaxation. In fact, it will become a kind of heart of the school. At the same time, special acoustic panels will absorb possible noise, so neither loud music nor children’s laughter in the atrium will interfere with classes in the classrooms.

    In addition to 33 universal and specialized classrooms, students and teachers will have access to a creative space similar to a university campus, including laboratory and research complexes. The building also houses a media library, creative workshops, gyms, and much more.

    A sports core was set up on the school grounds: circular and straight running tracks, playgrounds for playing sports (basketball, football, volleyball), as well as recreation areas with a playground for students in grades 5-11, where a shade canopy and small play equipment were installed. In addition, an educational and experimental unit with greenhouses was located next to the school.

    The new school is scheduled to accept its first students on September 1, 2025.

    “Mathematical vertical” and pre-professional classes

    The new educational space will feature a combination of classical programs of in-depth training in the academic model of specialized education with practice-oriented engineering and technical classes, which the school implements jointly with partners (STEM approach) in the context of integrated support from a strong psychological service. Close attention will be paid to the involvement of children in sports, the use of available sports infrastructure, and the development of a school sports club.

    The school’s partners in developing the engineering and technical direction will be the state corporation Rostec and leading technical universities: Bauman Moscow State Technical University, MIREA – Russian Technological University and Moscow Aviation Institute (National Research University).

    The school plans to open classes with a mathematical and natural science focus as part of the city project “Mathematical Vertical” for students in grades seven through nine, as well as pre-professional classes (10th and 11th) as part of the city projects “Engineering Class in a Moscow School” and “IT Class in a Moscow School”.

    The focus on practical tasks and project work will be a special feature of the profile training of schoolchildren. The educational process provides for an individual approach to the children.

    Thus, the plans include introducing students to advanced professions in the field of engineering and motivating them to master professions that are in demand in the metropolis labor market. It is also planned to implement practice-oriented training based on additional pre-professional training courses, partnerships with universities and employers as part of the Rostec state corporation. In addition, it is planned to involve children in project and research activities in the field of modern engineering. Excursions, guest classes, master classes and the like will be held for schoolchildren, for example, off-site classes at the enterprises of the Rostec state corporation, as well as scientific events.

    Graduates of the school who have completed pre-profile engineering classes are planned to be considered as a priority for further training within the framework of targeted programs of the Rostec state corporation, such as Wings of Rostec, Code of Rostec, Rostec. Biotechmed.

    Medalists and winners of the Olympics

    School No. 58, created in 2019, currently includes two educational buildings on Tvardovskogo and Letnaya streets — a school building and a preschool building. It has 741 students, including 598 schoolchildren and 143 preschoolers. The workforce consists of 82 employees, including 60 teaching staff.

    The system of additional education includes programs of various focus areas: natural science, technical, physical education and sports, and social and humanitarian. The coverage of students by additional education is 95 percent.

    In the 2023/2024 academic year, 71 eleventh-graders graduated. Of these, 23 people (32 percent) were awarded the federal medal “For Special Achievements in Studies” (gold and silver), 11 people (15 percent) – the Moscow medal “For Special Achievements in Studies”. Based on the results of the Unified State Exam, 31 graduates (44 percent) received 250 points or higher in three subjects. Two graduates scored 100 points in English and mathematics.

    Last academic year, 60 children were also awarded diplomas of winners and prize winners of the municipal stage of the All-Russian School Olympiad. 34 students took part in the regional stage, of which 10 people became prize winners. Eight children received the title of prize winners of the Moscow School Olympiad. Teams of 10th and 11th grades became winners and prize winners of programming Olympiads (for example, PROD) and various hackathons.

    New schools and kindergartens

    Since 2011, 648 educational facilities have been built in Moscow, including 450 kindergartens and 198 schools. Of these, 327 were financed from the city budget and 321 from extra-budgetary funds. Plans call for the construction of about 200 new educational facilities by 2027.

    Sergei Sobyanin spoke about the development of the territory of the former Tushino airfield

    Program “My District”. Pokrovskoe-Streshnevo

    Program “My area”, developed on the initiative of Sergei Sobyanin, is the largest project for the comprehensive improvement and development of urban areas. Its goal is to create comfortable living conditions for Muscovites, regardless of their place of residence.

    More than 67 thousand people live in Pokrovskoe-Streshnevo, located in the North-West Administrative District. In recent years, much has been done here to improve the quality of life of the townspeople.

    The ground metro has arrived here — the second Moscow Central Diameter with the stations Trikotazhnaya, Tushinskaya and the city stations Shchukinskaya and Streshnevo. Convenient approaches and approaches from residential buildings have been arranged to them. At Shchukinskaya and Tushinskaya, you can transfer to the Tagansko-Krasnopresnenskaya metro line, and from Streshnevo — transfer to the station of the same name on the Moscow Central Circle.

    The reconstruction of Volokolamskoe Shosse with a radical upgrade of the interchange on the Moscow Ring Road has been completed. As a result, traffic has accelerated on one of the busiest outbound highways, and it has also improved on the northwestern section of the Moscow Ring Road. And thanks to the new U-turn overpass on Volokolamskoe Shosse towards Shchukino, it has been possible to significantly reduce the excess mileage of vehicles. In addition, Volokolamskoe Shosse has been improved – it has turned into a highway with comfortable transfers with convenient stops and pedestrian crossings.

    Seven new ground transportation routes were organized in the district. More than 50 modern bus stops were installed.

    Three charging stations of the Energy of Moscow project have been equipped for electric vehicles. Fans of cycling can use 44 bicycle parking areas and three city bike rental stations.

    The Skhodnya River Bank Park was improved, where water obstacles for rowers to train were installed on the territory of the rowing base. The Khimki River Valley Park, the embankment along the Skhodnensky Canal (left bank) from the Western Bridge to the Moscow Canal, as well as the squares near the Gzhel Moscow State Academic Dance Theater and in front of the S.G. Stroganov Russian State University of Art and Industry were put in order. In addition, 43 courtyards were improved.

    Water obstacles for slalom have been installed at the rowing base in the Skhodnya River Bank ParkMajor improvement works on Volokolamsk highway completed

    A large and significant project was the development of the natural and historical park “Pokrovskoye-Streshnevo”. During the work, the idea of its conditional division into several functional zones was implemented. Thus, a natural, ecological and educational, leisure and recreational, sports and historical and cultural parks appeared. The main and central part of “Pokrovskoye-Streshnevo” remained a natural reserve zone, and the places of active recreation were moved closer to residential areas and transport highways. In the park, the outdated infrastructure was updated and new infrastructure was created for a comfortable and safe stay of city residents, including the arrangement of 16 playgrounds, 23 sports areas, 16 gazebos for picnics.

    In the historical and cultural part of the park, the restoration of the estate ensemble is currently underway. The regular garden has been recreated, the facade work on the main house, the greenhouse and the fence with turrets has been completed, and the interiors are being restored. All elements of the architectural ensemble will be carefully restored using archival photos and drawings and adapted for modern use.

    Parquet flooring to be recreated in Pokrovskoe-Streshnevo estate

    An important event for the development of healthcare was the opening of a new treatment and diagnostic complex of the Infectious Diseases Clinical Hospital No. 1. These are three buildings with Meltzer boxes, which have no analogues in the country in terms of equipment and level of comfort.

    Sergei Sobyanin announced the imminent opening of a new complex of infectious diseases hospital No. 1The new complex of the Infectious Diseases Hospital No. 1 will become the best specialized hospital in Russia – Sergei Sobyanin

    As part of the modernization of the outpatient sector, a comprehensive reconstruction of the main building of Children’s Clinic No. 94 (Vishnevaya Street, Building 20, Building 2) has been completed and work is underway in Branch No. 3 of Clinic No. 115 (Dolgov Street, Building 1, Building 4).

    The multifunctional sports complex “Chkalov Arena” is popular with the city residents. It houses an ice arena, a universal sports hall, choreography halls and other areas where professionals and amateurs train. The new physical culture and health complex on Tushinskaya Street (house 16a) is also in demand among the residents of the district.

    Completed a comprehensive renovation of the sports and fitness complex on Gabrichevsky Street with modern sports equipment. They plan to build a multifunctional Sports Palace with an ice arena, a swimming pool, a multi-purpose hall and a gym at the address: Volokolamskoe Shosse, Building 71/10.

    For communication, leisure and creativity of the older generation, the Moscow Longevity Center of the Pokrovskoe-Streshnevo district was opened at the address: Svobody Street, Building 8/4, Building 1. Routine repairs were carried out at Children’s Libraries No. 232 (1st Tushinsky Proezd, Building 4), No. 236 (Bolshaya Naberezhnaya Street, Building 15) and Library No. 234 (Gabrichevsky Street, Building 8).

    Renovation in Pokrovskoe-Streshnevo

    In Pokrovskoe-Streshnevo, 48 buildings are included in the renovation program; about 8.3 thousand Muscovites will move into new modern apartments. The stages of resettlement have been determined:

    — first stage (2020–2024) — three houses have been resettled and demolished (the task has been fully completed);

    — the second stage (2025–2028) — resettlement of another 25 houses (eight of them are in the process of resettlement);

    — the third stage (2029–2032) — resettlement of 20 houses.

    Eight territories have been selected for resettlement of residents. Residential complexes have already been built on two of them. Design and urban planning documentation is being prepared for another six sites.

    Sergei Sobyanin included nine new sites in the renovation programA house will appear in Pokrovskoe-Streshnevo under the renovation program

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/mayor/tkhemes/12326050/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government publishes research report into e-bike battery safety

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The Government has published new independent research into the safety of e-bike and e-scooter lithium-ion batteries, chargers and e-bike conversion kits.

    A lithium-ion battery with a battery management system.

    The Government has published new independent research into the safety of e-bike and e-scooter lithium-ion batteries, chargers and e-bike conversion kits.

    The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) commissioned Warwick Manufacturing Group (WMG) to produce the research to improve Government’s evidence base on the risks associated with unsafe e-bike and e-scooter batteries and chargers, following a rise in the number of fires in the UK related to these products, some of which have sadly led to fatalities.

    The research gives new insight into:

    • how battery failures occur during real-world use and environments, including scenarios of foreseeable misuse or modification
    • the types of processes and materials used in product manufacture that achieve safer design and safer use of lithium-ion batteries
    • potential shortcomings in technical requirements in product standards that have not kept pace with technological innovation

    The research brings together evidence and data from the UK and overseas with input from stakeholders and businesses across the supply chain. This evidence gathering has been supported by detailed technical product inspections and product testing in laboratory settings.

    Read the research on battery safety.

    OPSS is carefully assessing the evidence to inform our future activity and is working to support wider Government and interested stakeholders on future actions that could be taken to improve the safety of these products. 

    A WMG spokesperson said: “We are delighted to have had the opportunity to assist OPSS to achieve a deeper understanding of the root causes of these battery fires.”

    OPSS is already undertaking a programme of enforcement and market surveillance activity. In December 2024, the Government published new statutory guidelines for businesses producing and distributing lithium-ion batteries for e-bikes. The guidelines set out that such batteries must contain mechanisms capable of preventing thermal runaway to be considered safe products.

    Read the statutory guidelines on lithium-ion battery safety for e-bikes.

    OPSS is also assessing products and conducting checks on businesses selling e-bikes, e-scooters and kits used to convert standard bikes to e-bikes, both online and on the High Street. Since 2022, there have been 21 product recalls, and 29 Product Safety Reports published for unsafe or non-compliant e-bikes or e-scooters subject to corrective action.

    This activity follows the launch of Government’s Buy Safe, Be Safe consumer information campaign which launched in October 2024 to raise awareness of these risks, and provided safety advice for consumers purchasing e-bikes, e-scooters and lithium-ion batteries.

    Find out more about the Buy Safe, Be Safe campaign.

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Russia must end its war and return to dialogue: UK Statement to the OSCE

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Ambassador Holland reiterates the UK’s support to Ukraine, and calls on Russia to end its war and return to dialogue and risk reduction – including in the Forum for Security Cooperation.

    Thank you Mr Chair, dear Cristobal, and to your Foreign Minister, for setting out Spain’s priorities for the Forum for Security Co-operation this Trimester.  You can count on the UK’s steadfast support, as you Chair our Forum at this crucial time for Euro-Atlantic Security. 

    Over the winter period, many of us marked Christmas and the New Year.  But the people of Ukraine have had no rest.  Today marks 1069 days of their ongoing defence of their homeland, from a full-scale invasion which continues to violate the UN Charter and to contravene the Helsinki Final Act’s core principles, including those on sovereignty, territorial integrity and the non-use of force.   

    That is why each week, we have met in this Forum to support Ukraine and to hold Russia accountable for breaching its commitments.  And that is why we particularly welcome Spain’s proposed FSC topic on Women, Peace & Security. 

    Mr Chair, our Ministers mandated the Forum to hold a weekly politico-military dialogue, with tasks that include risk-reduction.  They mandated the Chair to ‘ensure the good order and smooth running of meetings’.  To set the agenda.  And to select and invite guest speakers.  We fully support the Chair’s prerogative to execute its mandate. 

    Unfortunately, at the closing session last Trimester, we had to condemn the Russian delegation – for a fourth Trimester in a row – for its attempts to disrupt the FSC from functioning at all.  Once again, I express my thanks to Denmark, and to other previous Chairs, for keeping the Forum functional, despite Russia’s attempts to prevent it. 

    As we said repeatedly, there remains another path.  If the Russian state’s professed wish for peace is genuine, it must end this war by withdrawing all of its forces to outside of Ukraine’s internationally recognised borders.  And from Georgia and Moldova.  If the Russian state is serious about dialogue and risk reduction, it must stop trying to undermine our Ministerial mandate of this Forum meeting each week.   

    I wish to conclude by welcoming Estonia to the FSC Troika, and to thank Croatia for their work as they leave the Troika.  And most importantly, I wish you, Mr Chair, and your able teams here in Vienna and in Madrid the best of luck this Trimester.  You can count on the support of the UK delegation.

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 January 2025

    Invasion of Ukraine

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Children’s services need some improvements, says Ofsted

    Source: City of Leicester

    A NEW report from Ofsted says that children’s services in Leicester require some improvements to be consistently good, despite identifying some very strong areas.

    Inspectors visited Leicester City Council in September last year to review all aspects of children’s social care, including adoption and fostering, early help services, staff development and out-of-hours responses.

    They noted the ‘supportive environment’ leaders have maintained for staff, ensuring that caseloads remain at manageable levels. They found that handovers happened clearly and swiftly; staff knew how to escalate children’s cases appropriately and that social workers ‘know their children well and speak about them with knowledge and sensitivity.’ The use of child protection plans and processes to bring children into the care of the local authority were appropriate.

    The council’s fostering service was also highlighted as an area of significant strength, with carers receiving ‘very good’ support.

    Their report says that in order to achieve a judgement of ‘good’, leaders in children’s services need to improve the information they have to evaluate performance, and that care plans and responses to some referrals also need to be more consistent if all children are to have the best possible outcomes. An improvement plan has been produced to address the points raised by Ofsted.

    Inspectors also said that arrangements to support the very small group of most vulnerable children in care and care leavers could be improved, as well as support for young adult care leavers in prison or facing homelessness – areas which have been swiftly addressed by the authority since the inspection.

    Deputy city mayor with responsibility for social care, Cllr Sarah Russell, said: “This report was conducted back in September, which means we’ve already completed, or are working on, many of the actions and helpful points that were raised.

    “I’m very proud that inspectors identified that our staff are well-supported, our workforce is stable and our social workers know their children well. It shows that we have a good baseline for improvement and the foundations of our social work practice are good.

    “However, we also felt we couldn’t engage with Ofsted inspectors in the way we wanted to. We are experienced at undergoing inspections, but felt that the process this time was extremely difficult, with a lack of recognition of areas of good practice. Where things need to be improved, it is usually the case that very small numbers of children experience less than good support from us. This was not reflected in the final report.

    “We are taking up these issues with Ofsted, but in the meantime our focus is firmly on ensuring that our staff are supported, children in Leicester are kept safe, and that we continue to work really hard to provide the best possible service for every child and family that needs our help.”

    Laurence Jones, the city council’s strategic director of social care and education, added: “We are disappointed in this report, which we feel does not accurately reflect our service due to issues in the inspection process. However, it has confirmed some areas of focused improvement which were already known to the leadership team.  Having stabilised our workforce and created a supportive environment for staff, we are now absolutely determined to offer a consistently good service to every child and family we work with. This commitment is demonstrated by the actions we have already put in place, and we will continue to work to achieve this.”  

    More information about support for children and young people can be found at https://www.leicester.gov.uk/health-and-social-care/support-for-children-and-young-people/

    The full report can be found on the Ofsted website.

    ENDS

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: 180 Degree Capital Corp. Responds to Non-Binding Proposal from Source Capital

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MONTCLAIR, N.J., Jan. 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — 180 Degree Capital Corp. (NASDAQ:TURN) (“180 Degree Capital”) notes that its Board of Directors (the “Board”), including the Special Committee of the Board, has evaluated the non-binding proposal from Source Capital issued on January 24, 2025 (the “Source Proposal”), pursuant to the requirements of Section 7.10 of the Agreement and Plan of Merger by and among 180 Degree Capital Corp., Mount Logan Capital Inc. (“Mount Logan”), Yukon New Parent, Inc., Polar Merger Sub, Inc. and Moose Merger Sub, LLC, dated January 16, 2025 (the “Merger Agreement”). Based on this assessment, the Board has determined that the Source Proposal does not constitute a TURN Superior Proposal (as defined in the Merger Agreement) and does not, at this time, otherwise satisfy the criteria set forth in Section 7.10(a) of the Merger Agreement.

    The Board takes its fiduciary responsibilities seriously and is deeply committed to value creation for all of 180 Degree Capital shareholders. The Board unanimously reaffirms its support of the proposed strategic business combination with Mount Logan as contemplated by the Merger Agreement as being in the best interests of all 180 Degree Capital shareholders. The Board believes that the proposed merger with Mount Logan would provide unique and value-creating benefits as described in the joint investor presentation previously publicly filed by 180 Degree Capital on January 17, 2025, and available on its website at https://ir.180degreecapital.com/ir-calendar/detail/2908/180-degree-capital-and-mount-logan-capital-proposed-merger.

    About 180 Degree Capital Corp.

    180 Degree Capital Corp. is a publicly traded registered closed-end fund focused on investing in and providing value-added assistance through constructive activism to what we believe are substantially undervalued small, publicly traded companies that have potential for significant turnarounds. 180 Degree Capital’s goal is that the result of its constructive activism leads to a reversal in direction for the share price of these investee companies, i.e., a 180-degree turn. Detailed information about 180 Degree Capital and its holdings can be found on its website at www.180degreecapital.com.

    Press Contact:
    Daniel B. Wolfe
    Robert E. Bigelow
    180 Degree Capital Corp.
    973-746-4500
    ir@180degreecapital.com

    About Mount Logan Capital Inc.

    Mount Logan Capital Inc. is an alternative asset management and insurance solutions company that is focused on public and private debt securities in the North American market and the reinsurance of annuity products, primarily through its wholly owned subsidiaries Mount Logan Management LLC (“ML Management”) and Ability Insurance Company (“Ability”), respectively. Mount Logan also actively sources, evaluates, underwrites, manages, monitors and primarily invests in loans, debt securities, and other credit-oriented instruments that present attractive risk-adjusted returns and present low risk of principal impairment through the credit cycle.

    ML Management was organized in 2020 as a Delaware limited liability company and is registered with the SEC as an investment adviser under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended. The primary business of ML Management is to provide investment management services to (i) privately offered investment funds exempt from registration under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”) advised by ML Management, (ii) a non-diversified closed-end management investment company that has elected to be regulated as a business development company, (iii) Ability, and (iv) non-diversified closed-end management investment companies registered under the 1940 Act that operate as interval funds. ML Management also acts as the collateral manager to collateralized loan obligations backed by debt obligations and similar assets.

    Ability is a Nebraska domiciled insurer and reinsurer of long-term care policies and annuity products acquired by Mount Logan in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2021. Ability is also no longer insuring or re-insuring new long-term care risk.

    Additional Information and Where to Find It

    In connection with the Business Combination, 180 Degree Capital intends to file with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) and mail to its shareholders a proxy statement on Schedule 14A (the “Proxy Statement”). In addition, New Mount Logan plans to file with the SEC a registration statement on Form S-4 (the “Registration Statement”) that will register the exchange of New Mount Logan shares in the Business Combination and include the Proxy Statement and a prospectus of New Mount Logan (the “Prospectus”). The Proxy Statement and the Registration Statement (including the Prospectus) will each contain important information about 180 Degree Capital, Mount Logan, New Mount Logan, the Business Combination and related matters. SHAREHOLDERS OF 180 DEGREE CAPITAL AND MOUNT LOGAN ARE URGED TO READ THE PROXY STATEMENT AND PROSPECTUS CONTAINED IN THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT AND OTHER DOCUMENTS THAT ARE FILED OR WILL BE FILED WITH THE APPLICABLE SECURITIES REGULATORY AUTHORITIES AS WELL AS ANY AMENDMENTS OR SUPPLEMENTS TO THESE DOCUMENTS CAREFULLY AND IN THEIR ENTIRETY WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT 180 DEGREE CAPITAL, MOUNT LOGAN, NEW MOUNT LOGAN, THE BUSINESS COMBINATION AND RELATED MATTERS. Investors and security holders may obtain copies of these documents and other documents filed with the applicable securities regulatory authorities free of charge through the website maintained by the SEC at https://www.sec.gov and the website maintained by the Canadian securities regulators at www.sedarplus.ca. Copies of the documents filed by 180 Degree Capital are also available free of charge by accessing 180 Degree Capital’s investor relations website at https://ir.180degreecapital.com.

    Certain Information Concerning the Participants

    180 Degree Capital, its directors and executive officers and other members of management and employees may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies in connection with the Business Combination. Information about 180 Degree Capital’s executive officers and directors is available in 180 Degree Capital’s Annual Report filed on Form N-CSR for the year ended December 31, 2023, which was filed with the SEC on February 20, 2024, and in its proxy statement for the 2024 Annual Meeting of Shareholders (“2024 Annual Meeting”), which was filed with the SEC on March 1, 2024. To the extent holdings by the directors and executive officers of 180 Degree Capital securities reported in the proxy statement for the 2024 Annual Meeting have changed, such changes have been or will be reflected on Statements of Change in Ownership on Forms 3, 4 or 5 filed with the SEC. These documents are or will be available free of charge at the SEC’s website at https://www.sec.gov. Additional information regarding the persons who may, under the rules of the SEC, be considered participants in the solicitation of the 180 Degree Capital shareholders in connection with the Business Combination will be contained in the Proxy Statement when such document becomes available.

    Mount Logan, its directors and executive officers and other members of management and employees may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from the shareholders of Mount Logan in favor of the approval of the Business Combination. Information about Mount Logan’s executive officers and directors is available in Mount Logan’s annual information form dated March 14, 2024, available on its website at https://mountlogancapital.ca/investor-relations and on SEDAR+ at https://sedarplus.ca. To the extent holdings by the directors and executive officers of Mount Logan securities reported in Mount Logan’s annual information form have changed, such changes have been or will be reflected on insider reports filed on SEDI at https://www.sedi.ca/sedi/. Additional information regarding the persons who may, under the rules of the SEC, be considered participants in the solicitation of the Mount Logan shareholders in connection with the Business Combination will be contained in the Prospectus included in the Registration Statement when such document becomes available.

    Non-Solicitation

    This press release is not intended to be, and shall not constitute, an offer to buy or sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy or sell any securities, or a solicitation of any vote or approval, nor shall there be any sale of securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. No offering of securities shall be made, except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of Section 10 of the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release, and oral statements made from time to time by representatives of 180 Degree Capital and Mount Logan, may contain statements of a forward-looking nature relating to future events within the meaning of federal securities laws. Forward-looking statements may be identified by words such as “anticipates,” “believes,” “could,” “continue,” “estimate,” “expects,” “intends,” “will,” “should,” “may,” “plan,” “predict,” “project,” “would,” “forecasts,” “seeks,” “future,” “proposes,” “target,” “goal,” “objective,” “outlook” and variations of these words or similar expressions (or the negative versions of such words or expressions). Forward-looking statements are not statements of historical fact and reflect Mount Logan’s and 180 Degree Capital’s current views about future events. Such forward-looking statements include, without limitation, statements about the benefits of the Business Combination involving Mount Logan and 180 Degree Capital, including future financial and operating results, Mount Logan’s and 180 Degree Capital’s plans, objectives, expectations and intentions, the expected timing and likelihood of completion of the Business Combination, and other statements that are not historical facts, including but not limited to future results of operations, projected cash flow and liquidity, business strategy, payment of dividends to shareholders of New Mount Logan, and other plans and objectives for future operations. No assurances can be given that the forward-looking statements contained in this press release will occur as projected, and actual results may differ materially from those projected. Forward-looking statements are based on current expectations, estimates and assumptions that involve a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected. These risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, the ability to obtain the requisite Mount Logan and 180 Degree Capital shareholder approvals; the risk that Mount Logan or 180 Degree Capital may be unable to obtain governmental and regulatory approvals required for the Business Combination (and the risk that such approvals may result in the imposition of conditions that could adversely affect New Mount Logan or the expected benefits of the Business Combination); the risk that an event, change or other circumstance could give rise to the termination of the Business Combination; the risk that a condition to closing of the Business Combination may not be satisfied; the risk of delays in completing the Business Combination; the risk that the businesses will not be integrated successfully; the risk that the cost savings and any other synergies from the Business Combination may not be fully realized or may take longer to realize than expected; the risk that any announcement relating to the Business Combination could have adverse effects on the market price of Mount Logan’s common stock or 180 Degree Capital’s common stock; unexpected costs resulting from the Business Combination; the possibility that competing offers or acquisition proposals will be made; the risk of litigation related to the Business Combination; the risk that the credit ratings of New Mount Logan or its subsidiaries may be different from what the companies expect; the diversion of management time from ongoing business operations and opportunities as a result of the Business Combination; the risk of adverse reactions or changes to business or employee relationships, including those resulting from the announcement or completion of the Business Combination; competition, government regulation or other actions; the ability of management to execute its plans to meet its goals; risks associated with the evolving legal, regulatory and tax regimes; changes in economic, financial, political and regulatory conditions; natural and man-made disasters; civil unrest, pandemics, and conditions that may result from legislative, regulatory, trade and policy changes; and other risks inherent in Mount Logan’s and 180 Degree Capital’s businesses. Forward-looking statements are based on the estimates and opinions of management at the time the statements are made. Readers should carefully review the statements set forth in the reports, which 180 Degree Capital has filed or will file from time to time with the SEC and Mount Logan has filed or will file from time to time on SEDAR+.

    Neither Mount Logan nor 180 Degree Capital undertakes any obligation, and expressly disclaims any obligation, to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. Any discussion of past performance is not an indication of future results. Investing in financial markets involves a substantial degree of risk. Investors must be able to withstand a total loss of their investment. The information herein is believed to be reliable and has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but no representation or warranty is made, expressed or implied, with respect to the fairness, correctness, accuracy, reasonableness or completeness of the information and opinions. The references and link to the website www.180degreecapital.com and mountlogancapital.ca have been provided as a convenience, and the information contained on such websites are not incorporated by reference into this press release. Neither 180 Degree Capital nor Mount Logan is responsible for the contents of third-party websites.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI China: Trade-in program boosts China’s Spring Festival shopping season

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

    BEIJING, Jan. 29 — China’s consumer goods trade-in program remained highly popular at the start of the year, especially during the Spring Festival shopping season.

    The Ministry of Commerce (MOC) reported receiving subsidy applications for 10.79 million electronic devices over a four-day period starting Jan. 20, following the inclusion of mobile phones, tablets and smartwatches in the trade-in subsidy program, marking a significant expansion of the initiative launched in March last year.

    Moreover, automobile and home appliance trade-ins had reached 34,000 and 1.04 million units, respectively, as of Jan. 23, according to the ministry.

    The Spring Festival, or the Chinese Lunar New Year, is the most important holiday in China and an occasion for family reunions, and it falls on Jan. 29 this year.

    The strong participation in the trade-in program boosted consumer sentiment in the holiday market. According to Sheng Qiuping, vice commerce minister, the program, along with a series of shopping promotion events, will help meet the growing demand for Spring Festival shopping.

    Since last year, “trade-in” has become a buzzword in China’s consumer market, driving steady retail sales growth and boosting consumer sentiment.

    In 2024, more than 6.8 million vehicles, including gasoline-powered and electric cars, were traded in, while over 56 million home appliances, such as refrigerators, washing machines and computers, were sold under the program. Additionally, the sales of electric bicycles surpassed 1.38 million units.

    The total sales value of eligible products under the program topped 1.3 trillion yuan (about 180 billion U.S. dollars) last year, highlighting strong market vitality and immense potential. Notably, purchases of smart and eco-friendly products surged, particularly new energy vehicles (NEVs) and energy-efficient appliances.

    The trade-in program has revitalized consumption momentum, promoted a more sustainable economy, and enhanced the quality of life for consumers, according to MOC official Li Gang.

    In recent years, consumer spending has become an increasingly important economic driver. In 2024, final consumption expenditure accounted for 44.5 percent of economic growth, boosting GDP by 2.2 percentage points. Consumption now plays a more pivotal role than investment or exports in shaping the economic landscape.

    New consumer trends in China have gained significant momentum, including a resurgence in tourism and rapid growth in digital entertainment, online education, and live-streaming e-commerce. Green products, such as energy-efficient appliances and NEVs, have also emerged as new growth areas.

    In 2025, supporting consumption will remain a top priority for the government.

    At the Central Economic Work Conference in December 2024, China’s policymakers, while mapping out economic work for 2025, highlighted the need to vigorously boost consumption and expand domestic demand on all fronts.

    As part of its ongoing efforts to boost consumption, China has expanded the trade-in program. In addition to including smartphones, tablets and smartwatches, the government has increased the number of eligible home appliance categories from eight to 12 and added a wider range of passenger vehicles to the program. Approximately 81 billion yuan has been allocated for the first round of funding for the program this year.

    Sheng noted that the government will ensure subsidies are delivered to consumers quickly and conveniently.

    Local authorities are actively rolling out measures for the trade-in program. For instance, Shandong has launched 10 special initiatives for vehicle and appliance trade-ins, while Jiangsu is offering subsidies for smartphones, tablets and Bluetooth headsets. In Guizhou, an online platform has been set up to streamline the process of applying for subsidies.

    Experts predict that with such supportive measures in place, consumer spending will continue to grow steadily this year, while the Chinese economy demonstrates strong resilience, underpinned by solid fundamentals and enormous potential.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Recruitment for Application Co-ordinators

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Vacancies for Application Co-ordinator roles, working on applications received in respect of veterinary medicine marketing authorisations.

    We have three vacancies for Application Co-ordinators.

    Job Title

    Application Co-ordinator

    Grade

    EO

    Salary & Pension

    £32,220 per annum with Pension Scheme

    Annual Leave entitlement

    Commencing at 25 days

    Role

    This exciting and interesting administrative job puts you at the heart of the VMD’s work in being the regulatory and policy lead for issues concerning the authorisation, use, and manufacture of veterinary medicines in the UK.

    You will be part of a large operational delivery team that progresses applications received in respect of veterinary medicine authorisations and their associated life-cycle. You will work closely with administrative and scientific colleagues as well as external stakeholders, including the pharmaceutical industry and regulators from other countries.

    How to apply

    You must make your application via Application Co-ordinator – Civil Service Jobs – GOV.UK where you will find a full job description.

    Closing Date

    24 February 2025

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Antibiotic ‘Access’ list updated for the UK

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    UKHSA has published an updated antimicrobial stewardship tool

    The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has published an updated antimicrobial stewardship tool to support healthcare professionals across the UK prescribe the most appropriate antibiotics for patients, while protecting their future effectiveness.

    The UK’s tool is based on the World Health Organization’s (WHO) AWaRe (Access, Watch or Reserve) classification system, which was developed to support good antibiotic stewardship at local, national and global levels. This recent review, which applies to all 4 nations in the UK, was conducted in response to the WHO updating its categories in 2023.

    Most patients should receive Access antibiotics in the first instance, which offer the most effective treatment while minimising the potential for resistance. However, in a few cases some patients may require Watch or Reserve. Watch antibiotics are first or second choice antibiotics indicated for a limited number of infections, while Reserve are “last resort” or new antibiotics. These are closely monitored and prioritised as targets of stewardship programmes to ensure continued effectiveness.

    In UKHSA’s latest review, with contribution from 60 experts across the 4 UK nations, the English Surveillance Programme for Antimicrobial Utilisation and Resistance oversight group and Department of Health Expert Advisory Group on Antimicrobial Prescribing, Resistance and Healthcare-associated Infection (APRHAI) has provided a UK classification for 90 antibiotics.

    The most significant change is that all first-generation cephalosporins are now classed as Access, compared to Watch in 2019. This means that patients with certain allergies, such as penicillin, will have access to a wider range of antibiotics that currently show less potential to develop resistance to bacteria than others. The change aligns with the 2023 WHO AWaRe classification but does not mandate increased use of cephalosporins. All other cephalosporins remain in the Watch or Reserve categories.

    In keeping with UKHSA’s review in 2019, amoxicillin/clavulanic acid remains in Watch in the UK, but is classified as Access in the 2023 WHO AWaRe classification. Amoxicillin/clavulanic acid is an important and widely used drug globally. However, in the UK setting specifically, experts judged that its use is more likely to develop resistance in bacteria compared to other antibiotics. 

    UK-AWaRe classification is an important stewardship tool to help achieve the 20-year UK vision to contain and control antimicrobial resistance. It also supports one of the national targets set in the UK National Action Plan for antimicrobial resistance 2024 to 2029. By 2029, the UK is aiming to achieve 70% of total use of antibiotics from the Access category across the human healthcare system to preserve efficacy. According to the latest assessment in 2023, this was 64.1% for England.

    Dr Colin Brown, Deputy Director at UKHSA said:

    The AWaRe classification has played an important role in antibiotic stewardship in the UK and continues to do so. This review for the UK will help healthcare professionals choose the best treatment options for their patients, while preserving the effectiveness of antibiotics for future use.

    It will also support the development of guidelines for antibiotic prescribing and our UK targets to tackle antibiotic resistance set out in the National Action Plan.

    Appropriate use of antibiotics is essential in our fight against resistant bacteria.

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Green tech to turn derelict ‘Elvis House’ into council’s first net zero home

    Source: City of Canterbury

    Home  »  Latest News   »   Green tech to turn derelict ‘Elvis House’ into council’s first net zero home

    A little less conversation, a little more action kicked off this week to transform a vacant property into Canterbury City Council’s first net zero social home.

    The project is designed to trial what decarbonisation of the council’s housing stock through retrofitting could look like and will see Canterbury’s ‘Elvis House’, known for displaying the King of Rock and Roll’s image for more than 40 years, packed with green technology.

    A three-bedroom house down at the end of St Peter’s Place, the refurbishment will take its EPC rating from an E to an A, and once complete, the home will be used as temporary accommodation for people awaiting an offer of permanent council housing.

    Cllr Pip Hazelton, Cabinet Member for Housing, said: “I am thrilled to see this vital step taken towards reshaping our housing stock which I’m sure will offer valuable insight for developing a retrofit-at-scale approach.

    “Decarbonisation through retrofitting would not only mean properties are brought back into use to boost social housing and cut our waiting list but would also see occupied energy-inefficient homes upgraded to slash running costs for current tenants.

    “Our residents deserve affordable, high-quality social homes and this is just more evidence of our commitment to delivering that.”

    The pilot forms part of the council’s Climate Change Action Plan (CCAP) which was developed and adopted in May 2021 to provide a roadmap for achieving net zero emissions from the council’s operations and assets by 2030.

    Some of the proposed green upgrades include:

    • high-quality external wall, cavity wall, roof and underfloor insulation
    • triple glazed windows
    • mechanical ventilation heat recovery
    • air source heat pump
    • solar panels

    Plans also include turning the property into a two-bedroom house to comply with minimum space standards alongside improvements to the garden and installation of a new kitchen and bathroom.

    The project is part-funded by the government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund and will take approximately six months to complete.

    Cllr Mel Dawkins, Cabinet Member for Environment and Climate Change, added: “Not only is this important progress for giving people decent affordable housing, but it also signals a significant stride towards achieving our 2030 net zero target.

    “Even though we have already made major progress in cutting the carbon emissions produced by council-owned assets, energy-inefficient social homes remain a huge piece of the council’s decarbonisation puzzle.

    “Although this project alone won’t get us to where we need to be, our hope is that it is a catalyst for change both inside and outside the council by inspiring residents to decarbonise their own homes and encouraging the local construction industry to invest in retrofit skills for their workforce.”

    Published: 29 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Threat predictions for industrial enterprises 2025

    Source: Securelist – Kaspersky

    Headline: Threat predictions for industrial enterprises 2025

    Key global cyberthreat landscape development drivers

    Hunt for innovations

    Innovations are changing our lives. Today, the world is on the threshold of another technical revolution. Access to new technologies is a ticket to the future, a guarantee of economic prosperity and political sovereignty. Therefore, many countries are looking for their way into the new technological order, investing in promising research and development in a variety of areas: AI and machine learning, quantum computing, optical electronics, new materials, energy sources and types of engines, satellites and telecommunications, genetics, biotechnology and medicine.

    In terms of cybersecurity, growing interest in innovation means APTs are focusing on institutions and enterprises involved in new tech research and development. As the demand for the technical know-how grows, elite cybercriminal groups – such as top ransomware gangs and hacktivists – are also joining the game, hunting for the leading innovative enterprises’ trade secrets.

    Industrial enterprises should keep in mind that this information might be even easier to access and exfiltrate from the shop floor than from within research lab and office network perimeters. The supply chain and network of trusted partners are also very logical potential targets.

    Intentionally created barriers and sanction wars

    Increasing geopolitical turbulence, sanction wars, and the artificial restriction of access to efficient technology is boosting the drive to violate the intellectual property rights of leading enterprises. This may lead to the following security risks.

    • OT technology developers and suppliers are facing the problem that existing mechanisms built into their products may no longer be effectively safeguarding their intellectual property.
    • Сracks, third-party patches, and various other ways to bypass license restrictions, come at the price of increased cybersecurity risks right inside OT perimeter.
    • In addition to stealing documentation related to cutting-edge technological developments, attackers will continue to hunt for technical know-how – for example, collecting 3D/physical models and CAD/CAM designs as we saw in the attacks by Librarian Ghouls.
    • PLC programs, SCADA projects, and other sources of technological process information stored in OT assets may also become another target for malicious actors.

    New technologies mean new cyber risks

    When trying something completely new, one should always expect some unexpected consequences in addition to the promised benefits. Today, many industrial enterprises are keeping up with organizations in other sectors (for example, financial or retail) in the implementation of IT innovations, such as augmented reality and quantum computing. As in many other fields, the biggest boost in efficiency is expected from the widespread use of machine learning and AI systems, including their direct application in production – when tweaking and adjusting technological process control. Already today, the use of such systems at certain facilities, such as non-ferrous metallurgy, can increase final product output by an estimated billion dollars per year. Once an enterprise experiences such an increase in efficiency, there’s no going back – such a system will become an essential production asset. This may affect the industrial threat landscape in several ways:

    • The improper use of AI technologies in the IT and operational processes of industrial enterprises may lead to the unintended disclosure of confidential information (for example, by being entered into a model training dataset) and to new security threats. The seriousness and likelihood of some of these threats is currently hard to assess.
    • Both the AI systems and the unique enterprise data they use (either in its raw form – historical telemetry data – used as a training dataset, or as neural network weights incorporated into the AI model), if they become crucial assets, may now be new cyberattack targets. For example, if the systems or data get locked by the bad guys, they may be impossible to restore. Additionally, attacking these systems may not pose risks to the safety of the victim facility, unlike for traditional OT systems, meaning malicious actors may be more inclined to go for the attack.
    • Attackers also do not ignore technical progress; their use of AI at various stages of the killchain (for malicious tools development and social engineering, such as text generation for phishing emails) reduces costs, thereby accelerating the development of cyberthreats. This tendency will certainly evolve in 2025.

    Time-tested technologies mean new cyber risks

    Just because a system has not been attacked, it doesn’t necessarily mean that it is well protected. It could be that attackers have simply not reached it yet – perhaps because they already had simpler, more reliable and automated ways to perform attacks, or maybe you’ve just been lucky.

    The expression “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” takes on a special meaning in OT infrastructures. Sometimes systems have been running for years or even decades without any modifications, even without installing critical security patches or changing insecure configurations, such as unnecessary network services, debug interfaces and weak passwords. Sometimes systems are still running in the exact same state as when they were put into operation.

    Things get even more complicated when you take into account the poor quality of information about OT product vulnerabilities available from the developers or public sources. Fortunately, malicious actors still very rarely attack industrial assets and industrial automation systems.

    Moreover, in addition to unprotected industrial automation systems such as PLCs and SCADA servers, which are in fact very difficult to keep cybersecure, there are many other types of devices and even entire infrastructures that are somehow connected to the technological network. The security of these systems is often unjustifiably overlooked:

    • Telecom equipment. Its security is usually considered either the responsibility of the telecom operator or thought to be unnecessary for some reason. For example, mobile base stations and technological networks of mobile operators are believed to be already sufficiently protected from cyberattacks, which is why “no one attacks them”. For some reason, this problem is largely ignored by security researchers as well: while the security of endpoints and their key components, such as modems, is thoroughly studied, there are extremely few in-depth publications on the security of base stations or core network equipment. However, the equipment can obviously be compromised, at least from the operator’s side, for example, during maintenance. After all, telecom operators themselves are far from being immune to cyberattacks, as the story of the Blackwood attacks using the NSPX30 implant shows us. Thus, the following must be kept in mind:
      • At the very least, the threat model of industrial enterprises must include “man-in-the-middle” attacks on telecom equipment and the infrastructure of telecom operators.
      • Given how rapidly all kinds of smart remote monitoring and control systems are being implemented – primarily in mining and logistics, but also in other sectors and types of facilities – the priority of securing telecom-related infrastructures will only increase correspondingly. For example, to guarantee the safety of robotized infrastructures and the use of automated transport at facilities, we’re seeing the introduction of wireless communication. Industrial enterprises should clearly invest in telecom security in order to avoid cyberincidents, perhaps as early as this year.
    • The security of smart sensors, meters, measuring and control devices, and other devices in the Industrial Internet of Things is typically neglected by both the enterprises using them and, correspondingly, the developers themselves. However, as the history of FrostyGoop shows, these devices may also become attack targets.
    • The connection points of small remote industrial infrastructure facilities typically use inexpensive network equipment, sometimes not even designed for industrial use (for example, SOHO devices). Their cybersecurity can be extremely difficult to keep in good condition, both due to architectural limitations and the complexity of centralized maintenance. At the same time, such devices can be manipulated not only to distribute general-purpose malware or host botnet agents (as in the case of Flax Typhoon/Raptor Train), but also as an entry point into the IT or OT network.
    • The Windows OS family has been the most popular platform for workstations and automation system servers for decades. However, in recent years, many industrial enterprises have been increasingly installing Linux-based systems in their OT circuits, for various reasons. One of the decisive arguments in favor of choosing Linux is often the belief that such systems are more resistant to cyberattacks. On the one hand, there is indeed less malware that can run on this OS, and the probability of accidental infection is lower than for Windows OS. On the other hand, protecting Linux systems against a targeted attack is just as difficult, and in some cases even more so. The fact is that:
      • Developers of security solutions for Linux have to catch up with solutions protecting Windows infrastructure. For a long time, many functions were not in demand by customers and, therefore, were not implemented. At the same time, implementing new functionality is more expensive because it is necessary to support multiple OS strains developing in parallel, and the integration of security solutions is not a priority for kernel developers. There are two downstream consequences of this: first, a lack of effective standard integration mechanisms, and second, updating the kernel can easily “break” compatibility – and a simple module rebuild may not be enough.
      • On the industrial enterprise side, there are clearly not enough information security specialists who are also Linux experts, so both secure device configuration and monitoring and incident detection may not be that effective.
      • Both Linux OT solutions themselves and their developers often demonstrate insufficient information security maturity and can be an easy target for attackers, as was revealed, for example, during the investigation of a series of Sandworm attacks on Ukrainian critical infrastructure facilities.

    Wrong vendor choice means big trouble

    Insufficient investment of product developers or technology providers in their own information security guarantees that their customers will experience incidents. This problem is especially relevant for providers of niche products and services. An illustrative case is the attack on CDK Global, which led to direct losses of its customers exceeding a total of one billion dollars.

    The situation for industrial enterprises is complicated by a number of factors. Key among these are:

    • Extremely long technology supply chains. Equipment, including automation systems for key production assets, is very complex. An enterprise’s industrial equipment fleet may include both all the main components typical of IT systems and many components created as a result of cooperation between multiple manufacturers of industry-specific technologies. Many of these may be relatively small developers of niche solutions without the necessary resources to satisfactorily ensure their own security and that of their products. Moreover, the installation, initial setup, and regular maintenance of equipment requires the involvement of various third-party specialists, further expanding the attack surface of the supply chain and trusted partners.
    • Almost every large industrial organization is its own vendor. The specifics of the particular industry and enterprise require significant modification of ready-made solutions, as well as the development of new automation solutions tailored for the organization. Often, these developments are carried out either within the organization itself or by subsidiaries or related companies. All of this multiplies almost all of the risk factors described above: such developments are rarely carried out with a high level of security maturity, resulting in solutions full of basic vulnerabilities that even mediocre attackers can exploit. Obviously, these security issues are already being used in cyberattacks and will continue to be.

    Security by obscurity doesn’t work anymore for OT infrastructures

    The availability of so many tools for working with industrial equipment (just count the number of libraries and utilities implementing industrial network protocols posted on GitHub) makes developing and implementing an attack on an industrial enterprise’s main production assets significantly easier than just a few years ago. In addition, industrial enterprises themselves continue to evolve – over the past few years, we’ve seen big efforts to not only automate production, but also to inventory and document systems and processes. Now, to impact an industrial facility on the cyber-physical level, attackers no longer need to carefully study textbooks on the particular type of protective systems (such as SIS or circuit/relay protection) basics and to involve external experts in the particular industry. All the necessary information is now available in convenient digital form in the organization’s administrative and technological network. We have seen cases of attackers telling journalists that after they entered the victims’ network perimeter they studied internal facility’s safety-related documentation for a long time before choosing which OT systems to attack, in order to avoid putting employee’s lives at risk or polluting the environment as a result of the attack.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Africa Energy Summit, leaders commit to energy transformation with more than $50billion backing from global partners

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania, January 29, 2025/APO Group/ —

    Thirty African Heads of State and government today committed to concrete reforms and actions to expand access to reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity to power economic growth, improve quality of life, and drive job creation across the continent. The leaders pledged their commitment in a declaration during the two-day Mission 300 Africa Energy Summit in the Tanzanian commercial capital, Dar es Salaam. Mission 300 partners pledged more than $50 billion in support of increasing energy access across Africa.

    The Dar es Salaam Energy Declaration represents a key milestone in addressing the energy gap in Africa, where more than 600 million people currently live without electricity. The commitments in the Declaration are a critical piece of the Mission 300 initiative, which unites governments, development banks, partners, philanthropies, and the private sector to connect 300 million Africans to electricity by 2030. The Declaration will now be submitted to the African Union Summit in February for adoption.

    By addressing the fundamental challenge of energy access, Mission 300 serves as the cornerstone of the jobs agenda for Africa’s growing youth population and the foundation for future development.

    Twelve countries—Chad, Côte d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of Congo, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Tanzania, and Zambia—presented detailed National Energy Compacts that set targets to scale up electricity access, increase the use of renewable energy and attract additional private capital. These country-specific plans are time-bound, rooted in data, endorsed at the highest level and focus on affordable power generation, expanding connections, and regional integration. They aim to boost utility efficiency, attract private investment, and expand clean cooking solutions. Deploying satellite and electronic mapping technologies, these compacts identify the most cost-effective solutions to bring electricity to underserved areas.

    “Tanzania is honored to have hosted such a monumental summit to discuss how, as leaders, we will be able to deliver on our promise to our citizens to provide power and clean cooking solutions that will transform lives and economies,” said H.E. Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, President of the United Republic of Tanzania.

    Implementing the National Energy Compacts will require political will, long-term vision and the full support from Mission 300 partners. Governments are paving the way through comprehensive reforms, complemented by increased concessional financing and strategic partnerships with philanthropies and development banks to catalyze increased private sector investment.

    Dr. Akinwumi A. Adesina, President of the African Development Bank Group, emphasized the need for decisive action to accelerate electrification across the continent. “Critical reforms will be needed to expand the share of renewables, improve utility performance utilities, ensure transparency in licensing and power purchase agreements, and establish predictable tariff regimes that reflect production costs. Our collective effort is to support you, heads of state and government, in developing and implementing clear, country-led national energy compacts to deliver on your visions for electricity in your respective countries.”

    “Access to electricity is a fundamental human right. Without it, countries and people cannot thrive,” said Ajay Banga, President of the World Bank Group. “Our mission to provide electricity to half of the 600 million people in Africa without access is a critical first step. To succeed, we must embrace a simple truth: no one can do it alone. Governments, businesses, philanthropies, and development banks each have a role—and only through collaboration can we achieve our goal.”

    During the summit, partners announced a series of commitments:

    • African Development Bank Group and the World Bank Group plan to allocate $48 billion in financing for Mission 300 through 2030, which may evolve to fit implementation needs
    • Agence Francaise de Development (AFD): €1 billion to support energy access in Africa
    • Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB): $1 billion to $1.5 billion to support Mission 300
    • Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group: $2.65 billion in support of Mission 300 and energy access in Africa from 2025-2030
    • OPEC Fund: An initial commitment of $1 billion in support of Mission 300 with additional financing to follow
    • World Bank Group and the African Development Bank Group: Launched Zafiri, an investment company that supports private sector-led solutions, such as renewable mini-grids and solar home systems. Zafiri anchor partners will invest up to $300 million in the first phase and mobilize up to $1 billion to address the persistent equity gap in Africa in these markets.

    The firm commitments made by governments and partners at the summit demonstrate the unique power of the Mission 300 partnership. By combining government reforms, increased financing, and leveraging public-private partnerships, African countries are positioned to turn plans into action, delivering tangible benefits to millions of people.

    The Mission 300 Africa Energy Summit was hosted by the United Republic of Tanzania, the African Union, the African Development Bank Group (AfDB), and the World Bank Group (WBG), with support from the Rockefeller Foundation, ESMAP, Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP), Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL) and the Sustainable Energy Fund for Africa.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Manchester firm which targeted Germans with fake prepaid card scam is shut down

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Advantia Card Limited was subject to a winding-up order following more than 190 complaints from members of the public in Germany

    • Advantia Card Ltd, registered in the UK, scammed customers in Germany using fake prepaid cards. 
    • The company sent the cards to customers against their wishes then demanded payment through a debt collection agency.  
    • Advantia was shut down at a winding-up hearing at London’s High Court.  

    A Manchester firm which sent out fake prepaid cards to people in Germany then demanded repayments has been shut down following an investigation by the Insolvency Service. 

    Advantia Card Ltd, which was registered at an address in Moston Lane Manchester, sent prepaid cards to people in Germany against their wishes – including a 12-year-old boy. 

    The company was subject to a winding-up order following more than 190 complaints from members of the public in Germany. 

    Investigations in the UK and Germany discovered the company issued fake prepaid cards and filed false accounts. 

    Some customers were subject to cold calls and received a prepaid card without their agreement, while others agreed to receive one after being told there would be no costs involved.  

    Advantia Card Ltd then employed a debt collection agency to make high-pressure calls to customers – in some cases demanding a 400 Euro payment for the provision of the prepaid card.  

    The company was shut down on 28 January 2025 after a hearing at the High Court in London. 

    Insolvency Service Chief Investigator Mark George said:  

    This was clearly a company with no intention of operating legitimately and with the sole intention of defrauding and distressing its customers. 

    Shutting down Advantia Card Ltd is a significant step in protecting the public – both here and in Germany – from suffering as a result of their fake prepaid cards.

    The Insolvency Service collaborated with the Federation of German Consumer Organisations (FGCO) – the equivalent of Trading Standards in the UK – to investigate Advantia Card Ltd, after they received more than 190 complaints from members of the public in Germany.  

    One of the complaints included a 12-year-old boy who clicked a link for a prepaid card offer through an Instagram advert. No proof of age was taken, and he did not sign any contract. 

    It was also found that Advantia Card Ltd filed false or misleading accounts with Companies House, having declared the company dormant from April 2022 to April 2023 when the FGCO investigation showed the company was active from at least 2021 to 2023. 

    The company did not cooperate with the investigation, did not defend the winding up and was not represented at the hearing.  

    All enquiries concerning the affairs of the company should be made to the Official Receiver of the Public Interest Unit: 16th Floor, 1 Westfield Avenue, Stratford, London, E20 1HZ. Email: piu.or@insolvency.gov.uk.   

    Further information 

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Strengthening Security Cooperation: UK Defence Minister visits Nigeria

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Defence ties between the UK and Nigeria have been strengthened following a visit from Lord Vernon Coaker this week.

    Defence Minister Lord Vernon Coaker shaking hands with Nigerian officer.

    The UK Defence Minister for the House of Lords, Lord Vernon Coaker, visited Abuja and Maiduguri this week to meet top defence and security leaders, reaffirm the UK’s commitment to our Security and Defence Partnership and discuss issues of mutual concern in the region.

    The UK and Nigeria share a strong defence relationship, underpinned by over three decades of collaboration between our armed forces. Through our partnership we continue to enhance security, counter violent extremism and promote regional stability.

    In Abuja, the Minister met the Honourable Minister of Defence and the Minister of State for Defence, the Chief of Defence Training and Operations, the National Security Adviser and the President of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). These meetings underscored Nigeria and ECOWAS’ continued leadership in promoting regional security and the UK’s continued commitment to supporting Nigeria’s priority security objectives.

    Lord Coaker also travelled to Maiduguri, Borno State, a primary focus of Nigeria’s fight against terrorism and violent extremism. The Minister visited a Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration camp (DDR) to understand the challenges of reconciliation and reintegration, and UK-led counter-improvised explosive device (C-ED) training, funded by the UK Integrated Security Fund.

    This initiative is designed, at Nigeria’s request, to enhance capacity and improve response capabilities to address security threats and instability. Meeting with Nigerian military personnel who have benefitted from UK training programmes, the Minister gained firsthand insight into the impact of UK-Nigeria security cooperation.

    Lord Vernon Coaker reaffirmed commitment to the UK-Nigeria defence relationship:

    This visit reflects the UK’s steadfast commitment to working with Nigeria to tackle shared security challenges. Witnessing the results of our training programmes and engaging directly with those on the frontlines reaffirms the importance of our partnership in building a safer and more stable region.

    The Minister’s visit highlights the continued strength and importance of the UK-Nigeria Security and Defence Partnership (SDP) ahead of our third SDP dialogue in 2025.

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council confirms commitment to improve council housing

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    The government’s social housing regulator has issued a decision on Portsmouth City Council following the council’s self-referral last year.

    The Regulator of Social Housing (the regulator) has said that the service is ‘in need of significant improvement’.

    The grading is not unexpected, and the council has had a work plan in place for some time to address areas that have been identified as in need of change.

    In April 2024, the regulator introduced new consumer standards for social housing landlords, which confirmed government expectations and introduced new regular inspections for local authorities.

    This means landlords need to be able to show data and evidence that proves they are compliant with the new standards and that they are delivering good services to tenants.

    The council chose to fulfil its legal duty to self-refer to the regulator in September 2024 and informed tenants and reported to the council’s September Housing decision meeting. Landlords need to inform the social housing regulator of areas where there are gaps that mean they may not meet the standards. This is called a self-referral and is seen as a positive step, with the regulator encouraging landlords to do so. The regulator noted the council had “engaged constructively” and “acted transparently” by making a detailed self-referral.

    The regulator has now issued its C3 judgement.

    The regulator says that the council has failed to meet the safety and quality standard – one of the four of its standards – in the following areas:

    • Stock condition surveys, which did not include all required information
    • Electrical safety, relating to the recency of information
    • Outstanding fire remedial actions
    • Emergency repairs clarity and oversight

    These are all areas the council is aware of. The council has a plan to tackle these which includes: increased officer visits to tenants’ homes to make sure information is up to standard and up to date, increasing the frequency of electrical testing, improving the way information is recorded and stored including around repairs, and responding to outstanding fire actions in priority order, with plans to invest significantly in this area. An update report will be going to the council’s housing decision meeting in February.

    The regulator has acknowledged that the council, which is landlord to around 17,000 homes across the south, is “taking steps to address the serious failings identified and make significant improvements”.

    Cllr Darren Sanders, Cabinet Member for Housing and Tackling Homelessness, said: “We knew there was room for improvement to meet the new regulator standards. That’s why we referred ourselves and have publicised this to our tenants and other stakeholders. We welcome and accept the findings of the regulator and will work constructively and proactively with them and our tenants on those areas they have identified.

    “I am confident we are already addressing the issues raised. Tenants are at the heart of everything we do, and tenant feedback reassures us that they have confidence in us as a landlord. We want to be open and transparent with our tenants, leaseholders and shared-owners, and to embrace the on-going work plan. This is the start of our journey with the regulator, and we will continue to work closely with them.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Portsmouth City Council fails RSH’s consumer standards

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Portsmouth City Council issued with a C3 grading by the Regulator of Social Housing

    The Regulator of Social Housing has issued a C3 grading to Portsmouth City Council, after an investigation found they had failed to meet the outcomes of the consumer standards, in particular those relating to the Safety and Quality Standard.

    RSH’s responsive engagement with Portsmouth CC began in August 2024, after information in the council’s Fire Safety Remediation Survey return indicated potentially material issues. 

    Although RSH’s initial engagement focused on fire safety, Portsmouth CC was then asked to provide further information on wider aspects of landlord health and safety and, following a self-assessment, the council made a self-referral to RSH in September 2024.  

    An investigation into the landlord found: 

    • Over 1,000 outstanding fire remedial actions. 

    • Over 85% of its homes have not had an electrical condition test for over five years, a number of which are located in high-risk communal blocks. 

    • Less than 40% of its homes had been surveyed within the last five years, more than a third had been surveyed more than ten years ago, and nearly 10% had no record at all. Additionally, stock condition surveys undertaken prior to 2024 did not include an assessment of hazards 

    • A lack of clarity for tenants as to what they can expect in terms of the repairs service. 

    Kate Dodsworth, Chief of Regulatory Engagement at RSH, said: 

    “The health and safety of tenants is non-negotiable. 

    “Providing safe, decent homes for tenants starts with accurate, up-to-date data. Without this, it is impossible to deliver the right services to residents. 

    “Portsmouth City Council has engaged constructively with us and we welcome their transparency in making a self-referral. This is the first step towards addressing the serious failings identified and making significant improvements.” 

    RSH also published regulatory judgements from proactive inspections for two landlords. 

    Aspire Housing received a C1 for its first consumer grading, as well as being upgraded to a G1 governance grading and retaining its V2 viability grading.  

    Sanctuary Housing Association received a C2 grading, and retained its G1 and V2 gradings.  

    RSH published a further 12 regulatory judgements through its stability check programme, with Incommunities Limited and Magenta Living both regraded from V1 to V2. The remaining 10 landlords retained their viability and governance ratings.  

    Stability checks are a yearly exercise where we look at the financial information landlords have submitted to us (including their most recent business plan and annual accounts) and consider whether their current viability grade is consistent with this 

    Provider Con Con Change Gov Gov Date Gov Change Via Via Change Engagement Process
    Aspire Housing Limited C1 First Grading G1 January 2025 Upgrade V2 Assessed and unchanged Inspection
    Durham Aged Mineworkers’ Homes Association – Not assessed yet G1 January 2025 Assessed and unchanged V1 Assessed and unchanged Stability Check
    Gateway Housing Association Limited – Not assessed yet G1 January 2025 Assessed and unchanged V1 Assessed and unchanged Stability Check
    GreenSquareAccord Limited – Not assessed yet G1 January 2025 Assessed and unchanged V2 Assessed and unchanged Stability Check
    Hexagon Housing Association Limited – Not assessed yet G2 January 2025 Assessed and unchanged V2 Assessed and unchanged Stability Check
    Home Group Limited – Not assessed yet G1 January 2025 Assessed and unchanged V2 Assessed and unchanged Stability Check
    Incommunities Limited – Not assessed yet G1 January 2025 Assessed and unchanged V2 Regrade V1 – V2 Stability Check and Responsive Engagement
    Look Ahead Care and Support Limited – Not assessed yet G2 January 2025 Assessed and unchanged V2 Assessed and unchanged Stability Check
    Magenta Living – Not assessed yet G1 January 2025 Assessed and unchanged V2 Regrade V1 – V2 Stability Check and Responsive Engagement
    Magna Housing Limited – Not assessed yet G1 January 2025 Assessed and unchanged V1 Assessed and unchanged Stability Check
    Newlon Housing Trust – Not assessed yet G1 January 2025 Assessed and unchanged V2 Assessed and unchanged Stability Check
    Portsmouth City Council C3 First Grading – – – – – Responsive Engagement
    Regenda Limited – Not assessed yet G2 January 2025 Assessed and unchanged V2 Assessed and unchanged Stability Check
    Sanctuary Housing Association C2 First Grading G1 January 2025 Assessed and unchanged V2 Assessed and unchanged Inspection
    Soha Housing Limited – Not assessed yet G1 January 2025 Assessed and unchanged V1 Assessed and unchanged Stability Check

    Notes to Editors 

    1. On 1 April 2024 RSH introduced new consumer standards for social housing landlords, designed to drive long-term improvements in the sector. It also began a programme of inspections for all large social landlords (those with over 1,000 homes) over a four-year cycle. The changes are a result of the Social Housing Regulation Act 2023 and include stronger powers to hold landlords to account. More information about RSH’s approach is available in its document Reshaping Consumer Regulation. 

    2. RSH carries out stability checks on all housing associations, and other private registered providers, who own 1,000 homes or more. The stability checks are a yearly exercise. We look at the financial information landlords have submitted to us (including their most recent business plan and annual accounts) and consider if there are any risks which might result in a change to their financial viability or governance gradings.  The checks do not include local authorities because our governance and financial viability standard does not apply to them. 

    3. More information about RSH’s responsive engagement, programmed inspections and consumer gradings is also available on its website. 

    4. RSH promotes a viable, efficient and well-governed social housing sector able to deliver more and better social homes. It does this by setting standards and carrying out robust regulation focusing on driving improvement in social landlords, including local authorities, and ensuring that housing associations are well-governed, financially viable and offer value for money. It takes appropriate action if the outcomes of the standards are not being delivered.

    5. For general enquiries email enquiries@rsh.gov.uk. For media enquiries please see our Media Enquiries page.

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Yukon approves new regulation for psychologists

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Government of Yukon approves new regulation for psychologists
    jlutz

    The Government of Yukon has approved a new regulation for psychologists under the Health Professions Act, improving local access to licensed, qualified psychological practitioners and supporting a transparent process for those seeking to become regulated health professionals in the territory.

    As a result, Yukoners will have access to psychological care from licensed and qualified practitioners who meet established professional standards. Yukoners seeking mental wellness or psychological services from psychologists will now be eligible to benefit from federal tax deductions.

    This new regulation aligns the profession with other Yukon regulated health professionals, national standards and practices for psychologists. This regulation also provides a formal process to register complaints if they are dissatisfied with the quality of services they receive.

    Psychologists practising in the Yukon will now need to meet qualification standards and follow standards of practice to be registered to practice in the territory. Psychologists may contact psychologists@yukon.ca to register effective February 1, 2025.

    The psychologists regulation under the Health Professions Act is a significant step forward in ensuring that Yukoners receive care from highly qualified and ethical professionals. By setting clear standards and strengthening accountability, this regulation not only improves access to registered psychologists but also fosters trust and transparency in mental health services. It creates a supportive framework for aspiring professionals while enhancing the overall quality of care available to Yukoners.

    Minister of Community Services Richard Mostyn

    This regulation ensures that Yukoners will have better access to high quality mental health care, governed by professional standards, more accountability and better support. It’s our government’s goal to have a health care system that is both accessible and culturally safe and this is the latest step in that direction. I encourage all Yukoners to participate in the ongoing review of the Health Professions Act to ensure that your voices are heard about how we can continue this important work.

    Minister of Health and Social Services Tracy-Anne McPhee

    Quick facts

    • The regulation sets out clear processes if someone has a complaint or there needs to be disciplinary action. 

    • To become a registered psychologist in the Yukon, prospective psychologists must contact psychologists@yukon.ca to register.

    Media contact

    Jordan Owens
    Cabinet Communications
    867-332-0615
    jordan.owens@yukon.ca

    John Tonin
    Communications, Community Services
    867-334-5816
    john.tonin@yukon.ca 

    News release #:
    25-026
    Related information:
    How to register as a psychologist
    Lines 33099 and 33199 – Eligible medical expenses you can claim on your tax ret…
    Review of the Health Professions Act

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Statement from Premier Pillai on International Holocaust Remembrance Day

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Statement from Premier Pillai on International Holocaust Remembrance Day
    jlutz

    Premier Ranj Pillai has issued the following statement:

    “Today, I invite Yukoners to join people around the world in solemnly remembering the six million Jewish lives lost during the Holocaust – known in Hebrew as the Shoah – along with the millions of others persecuted by the Nazi regime for their ethnicity, sexuality, disability and religious or political beliefs.

    “Today we mark the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau during the Vistula-Oder offensive on the Eastern Front of World War II. Today, this concentration camp serves as a reminder of the devastating consequences of hatred, bigotry and indifference.

    “We mourn the victims of the Holocaust. We honour the resilience of those who survived. Their courage and determination to rebuild their lives in the face of unimaginable loss serves as a testament to the strength of the human spirit.

    “We cannot reflect on the atrocities of the Holocaust without acknowledging and confronting the rise of antisemitism and other forms of hatred occurring today. We must uphold the promise of ‘never again’ by educating ourselves and our children, challenging prejudice wherever it appears and standing united against all forms of injustice and discrimination. Here in the Yukon, we are incorporating Holocaust education into the Grade 10 curriculum and working to make the territory a place where everyone is safe, valued and appreciated and where people are not afraid to stand up for what is right.

    “The Jim Smith Building in Whitehorse will be illuminated to honour the victims of the Holocaust. Today, and every day, we renew our vow: never again.”

    Media contact

    Jordan Owens
    Cabinet Communications
    867-332-0615
    jordan.owens@yukon.ca

    News release #:
    25-023

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Statement from Minister Mostyn on Data Privacy Day

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Statement from Minister Mostyn on Data Privacy Day
    jlutz

    Acting Minister of Highways and Public Works Richard Mostyn has issued the following statement:

    “Today, on Data Privacy Day, we join Yukoners and people around the world in emphasizing the importance of protecting personal information in an ever-evolving digital age. Here in the Yukon, safeguarding personal data remains a top priority, guided by the principles of the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act.

    “With the rise in cyber threats and data breaches, the need to protect sensitive information has never been more critical. Data Privacy Day is a valuable reminder for all of us – individuals, organizations and governments alike – to take responsibility for securing personal data and adopting best practices to keep it safe.

    “The Government of Yukon is committed to upholding these principles in all our operations. Protecting personal information is central to what we do and we are continuously improving the systems and practices designed to keep it safe. I encourage Yukoners to take a few simple but effective steps to protect their privacy: review the information you share online, update your privacy settings on digital platforms and use strong security measures to protect your accounts.

    “On this Data Privacy Day, let’s reaffirm our shared commitment to respecting and protecting privacy. By staying informed and vigilant, we can foster trust and create a safer digital environment for everyone.”
     

    Media contact

    Jordan Owens
    Cabinet Communications
    867-332-0615
    jordan.owens@yukon.ca 

    Brittany Cross
    Communications, Highways and Public Works
    867-332-4601
    brittany.cross@yukon.ca 

    News release #:
    25-025
    Related information:
    Yukon privacy resources from the Yukon Information and Privacy Commissioner
    Data Privacy Week information, Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Governments of Canada and Yukon announce funding to support private investment in Yukon businesses

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Governments of Canada and Yukon announce funding to support private investment in Yukon businesses

    jlutz

    This is a joint news release between the Government of Canada and the Government of Yukon.

    Small- and medium-sized businesses are key drivers of innovation and opportunity in their communities. Access to private investment allows them to expand, diversify and strengthen local economies, creating dynamic economic networks.

    Yesterday, the Yukon’s Premier and Minister of Economic Development Ranj Pillai and Member of Parliament for the Yukon Brendan Hanley, on behalf of Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs and Minister responsible for the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency Gary Anandasangaree, announced a joint contribution of up to $558,800 over three years supporting the Yukon Venture Angels’ (YVA) Yukon Private Capital Ecosystem Development Project.

    This funding will help YVA build a Yukon angel investor ecosystem to provide entrepreneurs across the territory with financial backing, mentorship, access to networks and strategic guidance. Through this project the non-profit organization will develop a strategic plan, create and deliver investor and founder training and build a fund management structure to facilitate private investments.

    Supporting projects like this one aligns with CanNor’s priority to support small- and medium-sized businesses and create economic growth and innovation in northern and remote communities. This agreement also supports objectives outlined in the Government of Yukon’s innovation strategy. Enhancing investment opportunities helps create jobs, stimulate local industries and contributes to sustainable and diversified economic development in the territory.

    Angel investors are vital to the growth and success of our local entrepreneurs and startups. Not only do they provide essential funding, they also create valuable mentorship opportunities and help Yukon innovators establish key partnerships in global markets. This funding agreement reflects our government’s strategic innovation goals of expanding market access for small- and medium-sized businesses while cultivating a diverse and collaborative investment ecosystem. 

    Premier and Minister of Economic Development Ranj Pillai

    Entrepreneurs are a key part of our economy. By supporting the development of an angel investing ecosystem, our government is helping to ensure that they have access to the resources they need to turn innovative ideas into successful businesses. This investment will help create jobs, drive long-term economic prosperity and open new opportunities for talented Yukoners to bring their ideas to market.

    Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs, and Minister responsible for CanNor Gary Anandasangaree

    The Yukon is home to a vibrant and growing community of entrepreneurs who are driving innovation and economic development in the region. With a high number of local businesses across diverse industries, the territory has become a hub for creativity and entrepreneurial spirit. We are proud to support these entrepreneurs who embody Yukon’s culture of innovation and provide them with the resources they need to succeed and grow.

    Member of Parliament for the Yukon Dr. Brendan Hanley

    Yukon Venture Angels is filling a critically important niche in Yukon’s economic ecosystem, working to unleash the private capital investment potential of Yukoners. Our mission is to establish Yukon as a competitive hub for angel investing and start-ups by facilitating investment opportunities and expanding private investment networks, while at the same time enhancing angel investor knowledge and competence. The outcome will be a more economically resilient and prosperous Yukon.

    Yukon Venture Angels President Barrett Horne

    Quick facts

    • CanNor is contributing $286,800 towards this project through its Regional Economic Growth through Innovation (REGI) Fund, which supports the economic growth of businesses and regions through innovation.

    • The Government of Yukon is contributing $272,000 over three years as a core project of the Innovation, Industry and Business Development Branch, in alignment with objectives outlined in the Yukon’s innovation strategy.

    • Yukon Venture Angels is creating opportunities for Yukon angels to invest, provide education programs to enhance their skills and build a thriving network of local investors. This network will foster collaboration, knowledge sharing and resource pooling, driving a significant increase in private capital investment in the Yukon.

    Media contact

    Jordan Owens
    Cabinet Communications  
    867-332-0615
    jordan.owens@yukon.ca

    Jennifer Hackwell
    Communications, Economic Development
    867-332-1795
    jennifer.hackwell@yukon.ca 

    Kyle Allen
    Office of the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, Northern Affairs and CanNor
    kyle.allen@rcaanc-cirnac.gc.ca

    Greg Frame 
    Press Secretary, Office of the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, Northern Affairs and CanNor
    gregory.frame@rcaanc-cirnac.gc.ca

    Leighann Chalykoff  
    Communications Advisor, Yukon Region, Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor) 
    leighann.chalykoff@cannor.gc.ca

    Ceara Crawford
    CEO, Yukon Venture Angels
    ceara@yukonventureangels.ca 

    News release #:
    25-024
    Related information:
    To find out more about CanNor’s programs and services, visit cannor.gc.ca.
    Innovation Yukon: Bringing Northern Ingenuity to the World
    Yukon Venture Angels

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Circular 2025/01: Victims and Prisoners Act 2024 – part 1 (victims of crime) related measures

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Information on the commencement of measures in Part 1 (victims of criminal conduct) of the Victims and Prisoners Act 2024.

    Applies to England and Wales

    Documents

    Circular 2025/01: Victims and Prisoners Act 2024 – part 1 (victims of crime) related measures

    HTML

    Details

    This circular is issued to inform criminal justice agencies and other interested authorities of the commencement of measures in Part 1 (victims of criminal conduct) of the Victims and Prisoners Act 2024 (the Act).

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 January 2025

    Sign up for emails or print this page

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Marat Khusnullin: Decisions have been made on 653 unfinished construction projects

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The Presidium (headquarters) of the Government Commission on Regional Development has made management decisions on another 57 unfinished construction projects included in the federal register of unfinished construction projects. Of these, 19 projects will be completed.

    Thus, in two years, decisions have already been made on 653 objects. Among them are social, medical, sports institutions, roads, housing and communal infrastructure and other objects for the construction of which budget funds were allocated. This was reported by Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin.

    “The government, together with the Ministry of Construction, continues to work to reduce the number of unfinished buildings. Thanks to this, citizens receive long-awaited facilities necessary for a comfortable life. Such work also opens up new prospects for the further development of settlements. Residents gain more employment opportunities, and the city gets a chance to renew and modernize. Since 2022, the interdepartmental commission for reviewing unfinished capital construction projects has included 886 unfinished buildings in the register. As of today, there are 773 objects left in it, 653 of which have already been subject to management decisions. Including 278 that will be completed. I would like to note that as of today, following the joint work of the headquarters, the Ministry of Construction and interested departments, the construction of 34 objects has already been completed,” said Marat Khusnullin.

    The Ministry of Construction is collecting and analyzing information from responsible departments on another 120 sites for subsequent submission to headquarters for consideration.

    “Starting this year, the completion of unfinished construction projects is carried out by the main administrators of federal budget funds, including by including such objects in the register of capital construction projects. According to the regulation on the procedure for forming and maintaining the register, information on transferred objects, as well as unfinished construction projects for which the headquarters has decided to complete construction and put them into operation, is entered into it as a matter of priority,” noted Deputy Minister of Construction and Housing and Public Utilities Yuri Gordeyev.

    Starting in 2026, the Government will provide subsidies to regions to complete the construction of regional unfinished buildings included in the federal register.

    Unfinished projects financed from the federal budget are entered into the federal register based on information from the main budget administrators. Such information is first sent to the Ministry of Construction of Russia, then the data is verified by an interdepartmental commission. Entry into the register allows the presidium (headquarters) of the Government Commission for Regional Development to make decisions on the completion, privatization, demolition of the project or its transfer to the ownership of subjects or municipalities. In the event of a decision to complete construction, a step-by-step plan for the implementation of the project is developed.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Monetary developments in the euro area: December 2024

    Source: European Central Bank

    29 January 2025

    Components of the broad monetary aggregate M3

    The annual growth rate of the broad monetary aggregate M3 decreased to 3.5% in December 2024 from 3.8% in November, averaging 3.6% in the three months up to December. The components of M3 showed the following developments. The annual growth rate of the narrower aggregate M1, which comprises currency in circulation and overnight deposits, increased to 1.8% in December from 1.5% in November. The annual growth rate of short-term deposits other than overnight deposits (M2-M1) decreased to 4.5% in December from 6.1% in November. The annual growth rate of marketable instruments (M3-M2) decreased to 16.3% in December from 17.0% in November.

    Chart 1

    Monetary aggregates

    (annual growth rates)

    Data for monetary aggregates

    Looking at the components’ contributions to the annual growth rate of M3, the narrower aggregate M1 contributed 1.1 percentage points (up from 1.0 percentage points in November), short-term deposits other than overnight deposits (M2-M1) contributed 1.3 percentage points (down from 1.8 percentage points) and marketable instruments (M3-M2) contributed 1.0 percentage points (as in the previous month).

    Among the holding sectors of deposits in M3, the annual growth rate of deposits placed by households stood at 3.5% in December, unchanged from the previous month, while the annual growth rate of deposits placed by non-financial corporations increased to 2.9% in December from 2.3% in November. Finally, the annual growth rate of deposits placed by investment funds other than money market funds decreased to 7.4% in December from 7.9% in November.

    Counterparts of the broad monetary aggregate M3

    The annual growth rate of M3 in December 2024, as a reflection of changes in the items on the monetary financial institution (MFI) consolidated balance sheet other than M3 (counterparts of M3), can be broken down as follows: net external assets contributed 3.6 percentage points (as in the previous month), claims on the private sector contributed 1.7 percentage points (up from 1.2 percentage points), claims on general government contributed -0.4 percentage points (down from -0.3 percentage points), longer-term liabilities contributed -1.8 percentage points (down from -1.6 percentage points), and the remaining counterparts of M3 contributed 0.5 percentage points (down from 0.9 percentage points).

    Chart 2

    Contribution of the M3 counterparts to the annual growth rate of M3

    (percentage points)

    Data for contribution of the M3 counterparts to the annual growth rate of M3

    Claims on euro area residents

    The annual growth rate of total claims on euro area residents increased to 0.9% in December 2024 from 0.7% in the previous month. The annual growth rate of claims on general government was -1.0% in December, compared with -0.7% in November, while the annual growth rate of claims on the private sector increased to 1.7% in December from 1.3% in November.

    The annual growth rate of adjusted loans to the private sector (i.e. adjusted for loan transfers and notional cash pooling) increased to 2.0% in December from 1.5% in November. Among the borrowing sectors, the annual growth rate of adjusted loans to households increased to 1.1% in December from 0.9% in November, while the annual growth rate of adjusted loans to non-financial corporations increased to 1.5% in December from 1.0% in November.

    Chart 3

    Adjusted loans to the private sector

    (annual growth rates)

    Data for adjusted loans to the private sector

    Notes:

    • Data in this press release are adjusted for seasonal and end-of-month calendar effects, unless stated otherwise.
    • “Private sector” refers to euro area non-MFIs excluding general government.
    • Hyperlinks lead to data that may change with subsequent releases as a result of revisions. Figures shown in annex tables are a snapshot of the data as at the time of the current release.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs) – 29 January 2025

    Source: United Kingdom UK Parliament (video statements)

    Watch PMQs with British Sign Language (BSL) – https://youtube.com/live/gPjfHWGwA6g

    Prime Minister’s Question Time, also referred to as PMQs, takes place every Wednesday the House of Commons sits. It gives MPs the chance to put questions to the Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer MP, or a nominated minister.

    In most cases, the session starts with a routine ‘open question’ from an MP about the Prime Minister’s engagements. MPs can then ask supplementary questions on any subject, often one of current political significance.

    The Leader of the Opposition, Kemi Badenoch MP, asks six questions and the leader of the second largest opposition party asks two. If another minister takes the place of the Prime Minister, opposition parties will usually nominate a shadow minister to ask the questions.

    Want to find out more about what’s happening in the House of Commons this week? Follow the House of Commons on:

    Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/HouseofCommons
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ukhouseofcommons
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ukhouseofcommons

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TT0LtkYkHKc

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK Prime Minister’s Questions with British Sign Language (BSL) – 29 January 2025

    Source: United Kingdom UK Parliament (video statements)

    Prime Minister’s Question Time, also referred to as PMQs, takes place every Wednesday the House of Commons sits. It gives MPs the chance to put questions to the Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer MP, or a nominated minister.

    In most cases, the session starts with a routine ‘open question’ from an MP about the Prime Minister’s engagements. MPs can then ask supplementary questions on any subject, often one of current political significance.

    The Leader of the Opposition, Kemi Badenoch MP, asks six questions and the leader of the second largest opposition party asks two. If another minister takes the place of the Prime Minister, opposition parties will usually nominate a shadow minister to ask the questions.

    Want to find out more about what’s happening in the House of Commons this week? Follow the House of Commons on:

    Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/HouseofCommons
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ukhouseofcommons
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ukhouseofcommons

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gPjfHWGwA6g

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health – Increase in Closed Books No Surprise to General Practice Owners – GenPro

    Source: General Practice Owners Association (GenPro)

    The increasing number of general practices closing their books to new patients is no surprise to the General Practice Owners Association (GenPro).

    New research from Victoria University of Wellington, published in the Journal of Primary Health Care, found that more general practices than ever are closing their books, with 36 percent of the country’s GPs turning away new patients last year.

    GenPro Chair Dr Angus Chambers says GenPro has been warning for years that patients are facing restricted access due to full or partial closing of books to new enrolments, reduction in services such as cancelling after-hours services, or practices closing.

    “One of the key reasons that general practices are turning away new patients is that government funding for general practice has not kept pace in real terms with the cost of running a general practice, the ageing population, and the changing health needs of New Zealanders,” Dr Chambers says.

    “The funding shortfall creates these and other downstream problems which make a bad situation worse. We are seeing insufficient training of new doctors, GPs leaving New Zealand, and more demand on already squeezed emergency departments.”

    Dr Chambers is encouraging people who can’t enrol, especially in worst hit areas such as Northland, the central and lower North Island, and Canterbury, to approach their local Member of Parliament.
     
    “MPs must urge the new Health Minister to support a complete overhaul of the arcane funding and regulated pricing model imposed on general practice, a model which is driving general practices to the wall. The current model is more than two decades old and no longer fit for purpose.

    “Changing the Minister won’t make much difference unless there is meaningful action such as theming this year’s Budget as a Health Budget to reverse the dangerous decline in primary healthcare availability,” Dr Chambers says.

    GenPro members are owners and providers of general practices and urgent care centres throughout Aotearoa New Zealand. For more information visit  www.genpro.org.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Nigerian who defrauded U.S. pandemic aid programs of more than $1 million sentenced to 54 months in prison

    Source: United States Department of Justice (National Center for Disaster Fraud)

    Defendant defrauded Americans for a decade with trove of over 14,000 stolen identities

    Tacoma – The second of two Nigerian men residing in Canada who defrauded pandemic aid programs of millions was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Tacoma to 54 months in prison for wire fraud and aggravated identity theft announced U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman. Fatiu Ismaila Lawal, 46, was extradited from Canada last July, and pleaded guilty in September 2024. At today’s sentencing hearing U.S. District Judge Tiffany M. Cartwright said, the crime required substantial planning. “This took advantage of programs designed to help people who were really struggling in an international emergency,” Judge Cartwright said.

    “This defendant made it his full-time job to defraud the U.S. for years before the pandemic, but he kicked it into high gear once critical aid to Americans workers was flowing,” said U.S. Attorney Gorman. “His fraud included using stolen identities of Washington residents to file dozens of unemployment claims in the first few weeks of the pandemic, contributing to the flood of fraudulent claims that caused the state to pause all unemployment payments. In this way his fraud harmed all Washingtonians who desperately needed assistance at the onset of the pandemic.”

    According to records filed in the case, Lawal, and codefendant Sakiru Olanrewaju Ambali, 46, used the stolen identities of thousands of workers to submit over 1,700 claims for pandemic unemployment benefits to over 25 different states, including Washington State. In total, the claims sought approximately $25 million, but the conspirators obtained approximately $2.7 million, primarily from pandemic unemployment benefits. Lawal admits that he personally submitted claims for $1,345,472.

    Lawal personally submitted at least 790 unemployment claims using the stolen identities of 790 workers. He submitted claims for pandemic unemployment benefits to New York, Maryland, Michigan, Nevada, California, Washington and some 19 other states. Lawal also established four internet domain names that were subsequently used for fraud – creating some 800 different email addresses that were used in this scheme.

    Additionally, between 2018 and November 2022, Lawal used stolen personal information to submit 3,000 income tax returns for $7.5 million in refunds. The IRS detected the fraud and paid just $30,000.

    “While Mr. Lawal may not have secured the $7.5 million he sought from fraudulent tax refunds, each of the 3,000 returns he filed represents a life he disrupted,” said Adam Jobes, Special Agent in Charge of IRS Criminal Investigation’s Seattle Field Office.

    Lawal and co-defendant Ambali also attempted to use the stolen American identities for Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) to defraud the Small Business Administration (SBA). The pair submitted some 38 applications, but SBA caught most of the fraud and paid only $2,500.

    Lawal and Ambali had the proceeds of their fraud sent to cash cards or to “money mules” who transferred the funds according to instructions given by the co-conspirators. They also allegedly used stolen identities to open bank accounts and have the money deposited directly into those accounts for their use.

    Evidence gathered in the case shows that Lawal personally received a substantial portion of the criminal proceeds. Lawal was ordered to pay restitution of $1,345,472.

    Co-defendant Ambali was sentenced to 42 months in prison in March 2024.

    In asking for a 65-month prison sentence, the government argued, “During major disasters and nationwide emergencies, it is particularly importantfor the government to be able to disburse aid quickly to real victims to mitigate the impact of the crisis. The actual monetary loss to the government comes secondary to the fact that a real person or business behind each stolen identity had difficulty accessing assistance because a fraudulent claim was already paid in their identity. These difficulties were further compounded by the onslaught of fraudulent claims that clogged the infrastructure in place to distribute the aid. The estimated loss from these fraudulent pandemic unemployment claims is over $100 billion.”

    The National Unemployment Fraud Task Force provided a lead on this case to the investigative team in Western Washington. The case was investigated by the FBI with assistance from U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) and the Department of Labor Office of Inspector General (DOL-OIG). Also contributing to the investigation were Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), Washington State Employment Security Division (ESD), and the Small Business Administration (SBA).

    The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Cindy Chang of the Western District of Washington. DOJ’s Office of International Affairs assisted with extradition on this matter.

    The COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force was established to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.

    Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud related to COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Criminals denied £7.5m in profits from the illegal trade in medicines

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) last year stopped criminals making more than £7.5 million linked to the illegal trade in medicines. 

    Person holding seized medicines in MHRA storeroom. Credit: MHRA

    As part of the crackdown on criminal profits, more than 17 million doses of illegally traded medicines, with a potential street value of more than £40 million, were taken out of circulation last year by the MHRA and its law enforcement partners. These included painkillers, sleeping tablets and erectile dysfunction treatments.  

    Andy Morling, who heads the MHRA’s Criminal Enforcement Unit (CEU), said:

    Criminals are in the illegal medicines trade for one reason only, to make money. By seizing their profits, we’re removing that single motivation. Whether held in Bitcoin or banknotes, we can take these criminal profits out of the hands of offenders. We can also use some of the money to strengthen our enforcement efforts against them. It’s a win for the safety of the public, and a serious blow for organised crime.  

    Following the money 

    The MHRA’s CEU leads efforts to disrupt medicine crime by denying criminals the profits that fuel it. Using its legislative powers, the CEU can freeze bank accounts, intercept digital currencies, seize luxury goods and confiscate the proceeds of crime following conviction. During 2024, the CEU’s financial investigators denied these criminals access to a total of £7.5 million in criminal assets.  

    Protecting the public from illegally traded medicines 

    The CEU deployed teams to work in partnership with the Home Office’s Border Force at ports across the UK to identify and seize medicines illegally entering the UK.  

    Most of the seized medicines are not licensed for sale in the UK, so can contain too much or too little of the declared active ingredient and may also contain other ingredients that are not approved for use.  

    The CEU also continued to target those individuals and networks illegally trading in medicines online, disrupting more than 1,500 websites and posts on social media accounts selling medicinal products illegally.  

    Andy Morling said:

    Buying from unverified sources risks your health, as there is no guarantee that the products are safe or effective.

    We work tirelessly to protect patients by preventing medicines crime, disrupting it, and bringing offenders to justice. We do this by working with partners to remove illegally traded medicines from circulation, deny the criminal networks the proceeds of their crimes and disrupt online criminality.

    Where appropriate we will also use the full range of our powers to bring offenders before the courts. These actions help ensure the public can trust the medicines they rely on every day.

    Minister of State for Health, Karin Smyth, said:

    Shameful criminals selling unregulated and illegal medicines must feel the full force of the law.

    We are cracking down on these rogue retailers, taking illicit medicines off the streets, and keeping the public safe.

    The MHRA will use the funds made through this to strengthen future action against criminals.

    Notes to editors

    • The 17 million doses seized include 5.5 million doses of erectile dysfunction medicines, 5.5 million doses of pain treatments, 2.8 million doses of sedatives, 1.6 million doses of sleep disorder treatments, and 1.9 million doses of other medicines.

    • Anyone who suspects they are having a side effect from a medicine are encouraged to talk to their doctor, pharmacist or nurse and report it directly to the MHRA Yellow Card scheme, either through the Yellow Card website or by searching the Google Play or Apple App stores for MHRA Yellow Card.

    • The MHRA’s Accredited Financial Investigators are authorised by the National Crime Agency under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 (POCA). They support investigations by tracing, freezing, and confiscating assets linked to crime, including money laundering and the illegal supply of medicines. Their work includes seizing cash, valuable items, and freezing bank accounts or cryptocurrency suspected of criminal origins. The Home Office’s Asset Recovery Incentivisation Scheme (ARIS) allows a proportion of the proceeds of crime recovered under POCA, to be redistributed to agencies involved in the asset recovery process. The Home Office encourages agencies to invest ARIS funds to drive up performance on asset recovery or, where appropriate, to fund local crime fighting priorities for the benefit of the community.

    • The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is responsible for regulating all medicines and medical devices in the UK by ensuring they work and are acceptably safe.  All our work is underpinned by robust and fact-based judgements to ensure that the benefits justify any risks. 

    • The MHRA is an executive agency of the Department of Health and Social Care. 

    • For media enquiries, please contact the newscentre@mhra.gov.uk, or call on 020 3080 7651. 

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Over 45,000 People Visited the Tretyakov Gallery Exposition at VDNKh

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    In November 2024, an exhibition of the Tretyakov Gallery dedicated to Russian art of the 20th-21st centuries opened in Pavilion No. 1 “Central” at VDNKh. Over two months, 300 excursions took place, and almost two thousand people joined them. This was reported by Natalia Sergunina, Deputy Mayor of Moscow.

    “In total, more than 45 thousand people have already visited the exhibition. Come and admire the paintings, sculptures and other works by Soviet and modern artists,” said Natalia Sergunina.

    The exhibition occupies eight halls with a total area of 2.5 thousand square meters, in which over 30 exhibits are presented. Among them are the mosaic by Alexander Deineka “Good Morning”, a model of the monumental composition by Vera Mukhina “Worker and Kolkhoz Woman”, as well as the high relief “To the Standard Bearer of Peace, to the Soviet People – Glory!” created by a group of sculptors led by Yevgeny Vuchetich.

    In one of the halls you can see a series of collages by contemporary artists. These canvases depict the heroes of paintings by Viktor Vasnetsov, Boris Kustodiev, Karl Bryullov, Kazimir Malevich, Mikhail Vrubel and other famous artists. Another part of the exhibition is the video installation “Hymns of Muscovy”, introducing the architecture of the capital in different eras.

    The exhibition will be open until September. You can visit it from Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 to 19:00. You must purchase a ticket on the website.

    At VDNKh, large-scale restoration of historical pavilions and creation of new spaces continues. Earlier, Sergei Sobyanin reportedthat by 2030 the VDNKh Expo convention and exhibition center will become the country’s main venue for business events, and the Museum City will become a key Russian cultural and educational cluster.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/149427073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Renovation program: resettlement of residents of 10 old houses completed in Vostochny District

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    In the Eastern District, the resettlement of residents of 10 old houses to new buildings erected under the renovation program has been completed. This was reported by the Minister of the Moscow Government, head of the capital’s Department of Urban Development Policy Vladislav Ovchinsky.

    After resettlement, the old houses will be dismantled, and new buildings with accompanying infrastructure will be erected on the site of the demolition under the renovation program.

    “Resettlement in the Vostochny district began in 2022, when the first new building was handed over for settlement at the address: 9 Maya Street, Building 28, Block 1. By now, two residential complexes have been prepared for city residents. More than 400 families from 10 old houses have moved there. In total, 14 buildings are to be resettled under the renovation program in the district; about 1.4 thousand residents of the capital will receive new apartments,” said Vladislav Ovchinsky.

    All information about the renovation program is presented on the mos.ru portal. More about apartments and houses you can find out by following the link.

    Renovation program approved in August 2017. It concerns about a million Muscovites and provides for the resettlement of 5,176 houses. Earlier, Sergei Sobyanin instructed to double the pace of implementation of the renovation program.

    Moscow is one of the leaders among regions in terms of construction volumes. High rates of housing construction correspond to the goals and initiatives of the national project “Infrastructure for life”.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/149445073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: WHO in Africa: three ways the continent stands to lose from Trump’s decision to pull out

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Lawrence O. Gostin, University Professor; Founding Linda D. & Timothy J. O’Neill Professor of Global Health Law, Georgetown University

    President Donald Trump’s decision to withdraw the US from the World Health Organization (WHO) will be keenly felt across the globe, with profound implications for health in Africa.

    In the executive order putting the withdrawal process in place, Trump also paused the transfer of US funds, support and resources to the WHO.

    Trump’s executive order is his second attempt to pull the US out of the agency. He has also complained that the US financial contribution to the international organisation is “onerous”.

    The biggest impacts will come from the loss of US funding. The US is by far the WHO’s largest state donor, contributing approximately 18% of the agency’s total funding.

    The WHO’s funding is split into two tranches.

    There are assessed contributions: countries’ membership fees, to which all WHO members agree and over which the WHO has full control. The US accounts for 22%, or US$264 million of these, for the current 2024/25 budget. The US is yet to pay the WHO its assessed contributions for 2024 and 2025. Withdrawing from the organisation without paying these fees would violate US law and must be challenged in the US courts.

    Then there are voluntary contributions: donations by member countries, foundations and other sources, usually earmarked to that donor’s priorities. The US contributes 16%, or US$442 million, of all voluntary contributions.

    In the case of the US, these priorities include HIV/AIDS, polio eradication and health emergencies.

    As experts in global health law, we are deeply concerned about the impacts of this order, which will be far reaching.

    The US withdrawal from the WHO threatens core health programmes in Africa. It will weaken the ability of African countries to respond to health emergencies, and could lead to increases in death and illness on the continent.

    It will also have broader implications for leadership and governance in global health.

    Impact on core programmes

    Trump’s decision to withdraw comes at a time when the WHO’s health priorities in Africa were already underfunded. Eight of 12 areas were funded less than 50% earlier this year.

    Twenty-seven percent of all US funding through the WHO for the African region goes to polio eradication, 20% supports improved access to quality essential health services, and much of the balance goes to pandemic preparedness and response.

    The WHO/US partnership has long supported the HIV/AIDS response in Africa, but the redirection and reduction in funds could reduce the availability of prevention, testing and treatment programmes across the continent. This threatens progress to end AIDS by 2030.

    The funding gap will also have an impact on programmes designed to increase access to quality essential health services, including the prevention and treatment of tuberculosis and malaria, and child and maternal health services.

    If the WHO is forced to cut back on these services due to a lack of financing, it could lead to increases in mortality and morbidity in Africa.

    European countries filled the financing gap in 2020 when Trump last withheld US funding from the WHO. But it is unlikely that they will be able to do so again, as countries across Europe are facing their own geopolitical and financial challenges.

    The WHO’s budget was already thinly spread, and its mandate keeps growing.

    Through its new investment round, the WHO raised US$1.7 billion in pledges, and is expecting another US$2.1 billion through partnerships and other agreements. Yet even before the US president’s executive order, this left a funding gap of approximately US$3.3 billion (or 47%) for the WHO’s 2025-2028 strategy.

    If the gap left by the loss of US funding cannot be filled from other sources, it will fall to African nations to fund health programmes and services that are cut, placing a greater strain on governments reckoning with limited fiscal space.

    Weakened response to health emergencies

    Trump’s decision comes at a pivotal moment for health in Africa, which is experiencing major outbreaks.

    The US has been a key actor supporting WHO-led emergency responses to outbreaks.

    Last year, the US partnered with the WHO and Rwanda to rapidly bring a Marburg outbreak under control. The Marburg virus continues to threaten the continent. Tanzania has just confirmed an outbreak.

    Earlier in August 2024, the WHO and Africa Centres for Disease Control each declared mpox on the continent to be a public health emergency.

    The Biden administration delivered 60,000 vaccines, pledged 1 million more, and contributed over US$22 million to support capacity building and vaccination.

    But now US health officials have been instructed to immediately stop working with the WHO, preventing US teams in Africa from responding to Marburg virus and mpox.

    Even before these outbreaks, the US supported WHO-led emergency responses to COVID-19, Ebola and HIV/AIDS. The US withdrawal could lead to increased transmission, sickness and death in vulnerable regions.

    Similarly, strong partnership between the WHO and the US has helped build health system capacities in Africa for public health emergencies.

    US experts have supported nearly half of all WHO joint external evaluation missions to assess countries’ pandemic preparedness and response capacities under the International Health Regulations. This is a binding WHO agreement to help countries prepare for, detect and initially respond to health emergencies globally.

    The US withdrawal from the WHO risks eroding these efforts, though it may also accelerate a regionalisation of health security already underway in Africa, led by the African Union through the Africa CDC.

    Restructuring of governance

    The US was instrumental in establishing the WHO and shaping WHO norms and standards, in particular driving amendments to the International Health Regulations adopted in June 2024. This included improved obligations to facilitate the rapid sharing of information between the WHO and countries.

    The US has also been a key figure in ongoing negotiations for a new international treaty, a Pandemic Agreement. This would create new rights and obligations to prevent, prepare for and respond to pandemics with elements that go beyond the International Health Regulations. These include obligations on the equitable sharing of vaccines.

    Trump’s executive order would prevent these instruments from being implemented or enforced in the US.

    This would only entrench inequitable dynamics when the next global health emergency breaks out, given the concentration of global pharmaceutical companies in the US.

    The order also pulls the US out of the Pandemic Agreement negotiations. This will inevitably create new diplomatic dynamics. Optimistically, this could provide enhanced opportunities for African nations to strengthen their position on equity.

    The US departure from the WHO will create a leadership vacuum, ushering in a restructuring of power and alliances for global health.

    This vacuum could cede influence to US adversaries, opening the door to even greater Chinese influence on the African continent.

    But it also presents opportunities for greater African leadership in global health, which could strengthen African self-reliance.

    Trump has directed the US to find “credible and transparent” partners to assume the activities the WHO would have performed. And yet there is no substitute for the WHO, with its worldwide reach and stature.

    For more than 75 years, the WHO has been, and remains, the only global health organisation with the membership, authority, expertise and credibility to protect and promote health for the world’s population.

    For this reason, the African Union, among scores of other bodies and leaders, has already urged Trump to reconsider.

    It is now time for the global community to stand up for the WHO and ensure its vital health work in Africa and beyond can thrive.

    – WHO in Africa: three ways the continent stands to lose from Trump’s decision to pull out
    – https://theconversation.com/who-in-africa-three-ways-the-continent-stands-to-lose-from-trumps-decision-to-pull-out-248237

    MIL OSI Africa –