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Category: Politics

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Qatar Welcomes Ceasefire Agreement between Iran and Israel

    Source: Government of Qatar

    Doha, June 24, 2025

    The State of Qatar welcomes the ceasefire agreement between the Islamic Republic of Iran and Israel.

    The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expresses Qatar’s hope that the agreement serves as a meaningful step toward adopting dialogue and diplomacy to resolve conflicts in the region and beyond. Qatar underscores the importance of using peaceful means to achieve lasting stability and comprehensive, sustainable peace at the same time, the Ministry reaffirms that the Iranian violation of Qatar’s sovereignty and airspace forms part of a dangerous escalation in the region, which require sincere and collective efforts to deter all irresponsible actions.

    The Ministry reaffirms that the State of Qatar will continue to serve as a driving force for peace. Its commitment to peace is grounded in principle and is not influenced by specific events or shifting political considerations. Qatar remains dedicated to the values of good neighborliness and fully supports all sincere efforts aimed at resolving crises and building a more secure, cooperative, and prosperous world.

    The Ministry expresses the State of Qatar’s sincere appreciation for the efforts of His Excellency President Donald Trump, President of the United States of America, in facilitating this agreement. It also expresses hope that both parties will fully uphold and adhere to its terms.

    MIL OSI Africa –

    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Death toll from recent floods continues to rise

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    The Eastern Cape Provincial Government has confirmed that the official death toll from the recent floods has risen to 100, following additional recoveries by search teams. 

    The numbers are likely to increase, as there are still individuals who have been reported missing by their families and search operations continue in the affected areas.

    The floods, which swept through the province early this month, have caused widespread loss of life, disruption in livelihoods and significant damage in infrastructure. 

    “As per the latest report, 94 bodies have been positively identified and handed over to their families, while processes are ongoing to identify the six remaining bodies. OR Tambo accounts for 76 of the deceased, while Amathole is 10, Alfred Nzo five, Chris Hani five, Joe Gqabi two and Sarah Baartman two. 

    “Out of the 100 deceased persons, 63 are adults and 37 children of which 22 are learners,” said the provincial government in a statement on Tuesday.

    The Eastern Cape Provincial Government has extended heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones and “are now left with a profound and multifaceted impact on their lives”. 

    The disaster has significantly disrupted families and Eastern Cape communities at large. 

    The provincial government continues with the provision of psychosocial support to the affected communities and schools, as well as the provision of relief efforts to overcome this disastrous situation. 

    “The provincial government further wishes to applaud the multidisciplinary search and recovery teams for their commendable work since the onset of the tragic weather event in the province. 

    “Their tireless efforts have been instrumental in recovering dozens of bodies and providing critical support to affected families, even as the search continues.

    The provincial government continues to provide humanitarian support in partnership with NGOs and the private sector, with Old Mutual and Amathole District Municipality due to implement a two-day humanitarian aid programme in Mnquma Local Municipality, on 26–27 June 2025. 

    The intervention will provide essentials, including blankets for beneficiaries. 

    Meanwhile, the OR Tambo District Municipality has made notable progress in restoring basic water services following the devastating floods. 

    Currently, 95% of the affected areas are receiving water, although some parts of Mthatha West, Coffee Bay, Mdlankala, and Mhlanga remain without water. 

    The municipality is providing water tankers in the affected areas. 

    “The provincial government expresses its sincere gratitude to the community for their patience while our teams work around the clock to repair damaged infrastructure, restore stability, and ensure access to clean water across the affected areas. 

    “Government remains committed to accelerating recovery programmes and ensuring that displaced and affected communities receive the assistance they need to rebuild their lives.” – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Infrastructure development key to economic growth

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    The Deputy Minister of Finance, Dr David Masondo, has reiterated that infrastructure development plays a significant role in government’s ongoing efforts to grow the economy, create jobs and deliver services to citizens.

    “As the South African government, we have committed significant investments towards infrastructure development. We have ambitious infrastructure development programs that have been undertaken in our country,” Masondo said on Tuesday, at the Supreme Audit Institutions (SAI20) Summit.

    The SAI20 is an engagement group of Supreme Audit Institutions (SAIs) from countries that make up the Group of Twenty (G20). It is chaired by the SAI of the country holding the G20 presidency. 

    South Africa assumed the G20 Presidency on 1 December 2024 and it will run until November 2025 under the theme: Solidarity, Equality, and Sustainability.

    The Deputy Minister said the country’s ambitious infrastructure development is necessitated by government’s desire to grow the economy through increasing the role of the private sector in the supply of electricity, freight logistics, telecommunications and water.

    “We are working with other international partners towards revitalising ports and harbours. We are upgrading our electricity and digital infrastructure. We are building roads, hospitals and schools. We do all these to improve the socio-economic conditions of ordinary South Africans,” Masondo said.

    In March 2025, Minister of Transport Barbara Creecy launched an online Request for Information to develop an enabling environment for private sector participation and enhanced investment in rail and port infrastructure and operations.

    Last month Transnet issued a R17 billion concession contract to five private sector partners to fund, construct and operate several liquid bulk terminals at the Port of Richards Bay.

    Government has been collaborating with stakeholders to address bottlenecks and inefficiencies to turn around the fortunes of the rail and ports logistics systems.

    Through Operation Vulindlela, government is accelerating the implementation of structural reforms to enable economic growth and job creation.

    Operation Vulindlela is a joint initiative between the Presidency and National Treasury.

    In its first phase, the reform programme focused on five area, namely energy, logistics, water, telecommunications, and the visa system, which were identified as the most important constraints on economic growth. 

    Government has made significant progress in advancing the reform agenda during implementation of Phase I of Operation Vulindlela as almost all of the reforms included in Phase I are either completed or on track.

    The initiative is now in its second phase and the focus areas include improving the performance of local government, addressing spatial inequality through housing policy and other reforms, and advancing digital transformation.

    It will include a rapid rollout of digital public infrastructure, such as digital identity and payments to enable economic activity and improve access to government services. –SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Chikunga welcomes life sentences in murder of disabled woman

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    The Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga, has welcomed the sentencing of two men convicted in the brutal murder of Nosipho ‘Nomdundu’ Mafani of KwaNokuthula, Western Cape.

    The two men, Mboneli Msila and Monde Tshemese, were convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment by the High Court of South Africa: Western Cape Division sitting in Knysna, for their role in conspiracy to commit the murder of Mafani, a 23-year-old woman with a mental disability.

    Msila, the adoptive father of Mafani, orchestrated the murder in order to claim funeral policy payouts totalling R600 000.

    He hired three men, Mbulelo Jack, Monde Tshemese, and Lungisile Lucas, to carry out the hit.

    Chikunga said Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) remains a national crisis in South Africa, with disproportionately high rates of violence against women, girls, and vulnerable group, including women in female-headed households, women with disabilities, and Black African women.

    “Gender-Based Violence and Femicide is a deeply rooted societal issue. Women with disabilities, in particular, are often subjected to extreme forms of sexual and physical violence. Despite being one of the most vulnerable groups, their experiences continue to be overlooked and under-addressed in society,” Chikunga said.

    The Minister highlighted that Pillar 3 of the National Strategic Plan (NSP) on GBVF, which places strong emphasis on Justice, Safety, and Protection, aims to address systemic shortcomings in the legal and system, and seeks to enhance the overall response to GBVF cases.

    It also aims to ensure that survivors have access to justice and are afforded safety and protection through improvements to the legal framework and its implementation.

    Although often committed in private settings, the Minister warned that GBVF is not a private matter, but a serious public crime.

    She acknowledged that GBVF is an ongoing diabolic act of violation of human rights, particularly “the rights of persons with disabilities should never be justified and must be confronted with all resources available.”

    “It deprives women and girls of their fundamental human rights, including the right to live free from violence, discrimination, and violation of bodily integrity. Failure to take meaningful action to prevent, prosecute, and punish such acts, constitutes a violation of human rights.

    “All incidents of physical or sexual abuse, intimidation, or threats must be reported to the nearest SAPS station to obtain a case number and/or protection order. Alternatively, victims of sexual offences can seek assistance from the nearest Thuthuzela Care Centre or similar support facilities,” the Minister said.

    Government has also established the Gender-Based Violence Command Centre (GBVCC) to provide 24-hour support to victims of abuse and violence.

    “We share a strong reminder that our government will continue to stand firm to protect and defend human rights as enshrined by the constitution,” Chikunga said. – SAnews.gov.za
     

    MIL OSI Africa –

    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Africa: SIU secures interim interdict against pension withdrawal

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has secured an interim interdict preventing Sanele Dlamini, a former senior manager at the National Lotteries Commission (NLC), from withdrawing his pension benefits pending the outcome of ongoing litigation.

    The interdict bars Dlamini from accessing his pension benefits until the SIU’s main case  – a civil recovery action tied to the misallocation of R6 million in NLC grant funds – is concluded. 

    The fourth respondent, Liberty’s Corporate Selection Umbrella Retirement Fund, has been directed to assess and disclose the value of Dlamini’s pension within 60 days. 

    This preservation is intended to ensure that funds remain available for potential recovery should the SIU succeed in its claim.

    Dlamini, who held several senior positions at the NLC, including Provincial Manager for KwaZulu-Natal, Senior Manager: Grant Operations, and Acting Chief Operations Officer, was found guilty on four of six disciplinary charges related to misconduct during his tenure. 

    The charges included approving falsified progress reports, as well as gross negligence and dereliction of duty. His dismissal was finalised on 04 October 2024 following the disciplinary process.

    The SIU’s investigation revealed that the NLC-funded project – a sports complex – was never initiated, and supporting documents, including progress reports and financial statements, were falsified. 

    Dlamini, who facilitated the irregular disbursement of R3 million to the Motheo Sports and Entertainment Foundation, co-signed the fraudulent progress report without verifying the site or documentation, enabling the unlawful payout.

    “The SIU pursues a preservation order to limit the risk of a ‘hollow judgment’ if funds were released, noting concerns that Dlamini may lack sufficient assets to satisfy future claims.

    “The order of the Special Tribunal implements SIU investigation outcomes and consequence management to recover financial losses suffered by State institutions because of corruption or negligence. The order forms part of a broader investigation into corruption involving NLC grants intended for community development projects,” the SIU said.

    The SIU is empowered to institute a civil action in the High Court or a Special Tribunal to correct any wrongdoing uncovered during investigations caused by corruption, fraud, or maladministration. 

    In line with the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996, the SIU refers any evidence pointing to criminal conduct it uncovers to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for further action. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Industrial Strategy to provide over £150m to reinforce UK as services superpower

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Industrial Strategy to provide over £150m to reinforce UK as services superpower

    The Industrial Strategy will invest over £150 million in five transformative AI and technology programmes to help UK Professional and Business Services.

    • UK’s modern Industrial Strategy will drive forward 2035 ambition for UK professional and business services to be most dynamic and innovative in world
    • Plan includes five new centres of excellence across country to help services firms grow and adopt new technology
    • New international marketing campaign will also be deployed for UK services through GREAT

    The UK’s modern Industrial Strategy will invest over £150 million in five transformative AI and technology programmes to help UK Professional and Business Services (PBS) sectors such as legal, management consulting and accountancy soar.

    The latest step in the Government’s Plan for Change, the funding comes as part of a wider package of commitments in the Industrial Strategy sector plan for the PBS sector, published this week.

    With professional business services worth £300 billion a year and supporting one in every seven jobs, the sector has been put at the heart of the UK’s modern Industrial Strategy, recognising its critical role in unlocking growth and creating jobs across all UK regions and sectors – and the UK’s place as the second largest exporter of services in the world, behind only the US.

    Minister for Investment Poppy Gustafsson CBE will visit the University of Edinburgh on Tuesday where she will meet with the Law Society of Scotland to hear more about AI adoption and how Scotland is a hub for world class PBS firms. 

    Jonathan Reynolds, Secretary of State for Business and Trade said:

    The Professional and Business Services sector is the jewel in the crown of the UK economy, worth over £300bn a year and making up one in every seven jobs.

    Our Industrial Strategy and Plan for Change will help the sector soar further through the adoption of new technologies such as AI and increased promotion overseas as we strive to make the industry the most dynamic and innovative in the world by.

    The plan sets out the sector’s ambition for the UK to be the most trusted adviser to global industry, with the most dynamic and productive PBS sector by 2035, whilst remaining the world’s second largest exporter of professional business services after the US.

    The five programmes will be focused on building on the already high levels of AI adoption in the sector, with major spends on launching a new PBS adapted Made Smarter digital adoption programme and enhancing Innovate UK’s Next Generation Professional Services programme which advises firms to adopt new technologies and support research.

    From Birmingham to Glasgow, this will be accompanied by new PBS centres of excellence in five city regions to offer firms advice, with a new national AI skills hub to offer wider support, alongside a new research programme to tackle barriers to innovation – starting with real estate.

    By placing innovation at the heart of the plan, it aims to increase business investment in the PBS sector and ensure the UK will not just be an AI taker, but an AI maker in delivering modern Professional and Business Services.  

    Other measures to boost the UK’s PBS sector in the plan include:

    • A new marketing campaign for PBS through GREAT + and more opportunities for PBS firms to join government trade missions.
    • Expanded support for regulators to negotiate mutual recognition of professional qualifications agreements, especially with the EU, US, and other key markets.
    • A Trade Digitalisation Task Force to advise PBS firms and clients on the productivity and growth benefits of digital trade documents and processes and to break down barriers to adoption. 
    • UK Export Finance to provide guarantees to PBS firms securing early-stage overseas project contracts for the first time, strengthening the UK’s position as the world’s second largest PBS exporter.  
    • A new PBS AI Champion by summer 2025 to identify growth opportunities, address adoption barriers, and deliver sector-wide AI Adoption.  

    Iain Wright, Chief Policy & Communications Officer, ICAEW, PBSC Business Co-Chair, said: 

    The launch of the Industrial Strategy marks a pivotal moment in the collaboration between business and government to enable the UK economy to grow and we were pleased to work with the government to develop the ambitious sector plan to make the UK the most trusted economy for PBS by 2035.

    With targeted support, the plan sets the stage for a more innovative, competitive and growing sector which underscores our position at the heart of the economy. I strongly welcome this renewed partnership, and we see today’s launch as the start of a long-term collaboration with government to turn this vision into reality.

    Kirsty Newman, Deloitte UK Market Chair, said:

    The PBS sector plan represents an important moment for our sector and sets out a bold and exciting vision for the future. It recognises our impact as a major employer and economic contributor in our own right, but also how we drive growth, innovation and resilience across the economy.

    The sector plan will help to ensure PBS is underpinned by the right skills and regulatory framework, is at the forefront of technological innovation and grows its presence internationally and in all regions and nations of the UK.

    The commitments from government and long-term engagement with the sector can solidify the UK’s reputation as a global centre of excellence for PBS.

    Tamzen Isacsson, Chief Executive of the Management Consultancies Association (MCA), said:   

    Consulting is one of the UK’s great economic success stories, with firms helping clients to grow, innovate, and tackle complex challenges. The Industrial Strategy and PBS sector plan is a blueprint to go further – accelerating tech adoption, opening procurement to SMEs, upskilling our workforce, and cementing the UK’s global leadership in services.

    As a sector with over 300 offices across the UK, we look forward to supporting the regional agenda of the Government as well as partnering with it to promote the skills and expertise of UK consulting globally.

    Richard Atkinson, President of the Law Society of England and Wales, said:

    The government’s new Industrial Strategy can be a game-changer for the UK economy and the legal sector. Putting legal services at the heart of the country’s economic engine will fuel sustained growth.

    Our legal industry is the second largest in the world, the biggest in Europe and brings all other sectors together. By opening global markets for UK lawyers, investing in our courts’ infrastructure, supporting technology in legal services and upholding the rule of law, we ensure the UK remains a global jurisdiction of choice. The Law Society looks forward to working with the government to deliver its long-term vision for growth in our sector.

    Notes to editors

    • The link to the PBS sector plan is here.
    • After the US, the UK is firmly established as the second largest exporter of PBS services in the world.
    • PBS is positioned to grow by £322bn in GVA by 2035 (113%), based on current trends.  
    • The PBS sector accounts for almost one job in every seven in the UK economy, with the sector paying 21.4% above the national mean annual wage.
    • Employment in PBS has grown by half a million since 2015, and we could see another half a million new jobs in PBS by 2035. 

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    Updates to this page

    Published 24 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Gebbia Media Launches Tactical Wealth Podcast for the Military and Veteran Community

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MIAMI, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Gebbia Media – a wholly owned subsidiary of Siebert Financial (NASDAQ: SIEB) – has announced the launch of Tactical Wealth: From Military to Money, a new podcast dedicated to empowering the military and veteran community through candid conversations, practical advice, and inspiring stories from some of the most accomplished, respected, and influential veterans who have successfully navigated life after service.

    Hosted by Kaj Larsen, former Navy SEAL, journalist, and entrepreneur, Tactical Wealth highlights veterans who have successfully transitioned from military service to financial success, entrepreneurship, and leadership in civilian life. Each episode provides veterans and service members with tactical lessons to build wealth and lead with impact beyond the uniform.

    “This podcast is a mission; it’s about giving the military community, veterans, and their families the tactical knowledge and financial confidence to win after service,” said Kaj Larsen. “We’re shining a light on veterans who have successfully built wealth and impact beyond the uniform and sharing the tactical steps that got them there.”

    The launch of the podcast is part of Gebbia Media’s broader strategic content portfolio, which includes a growing roster of original podcasts, documentaries, and factual entertainment. Gebbia Media is focused on telling mission-driven stories across themes such as sports, women’s empowerment, entrepreneurship, among others. Tactical Wealth joins this expanding slate of content that is designed to inform, inspire, and create lasting cultural and financial impact across platforms.

    “At Gebbia Media, we’re driven to create content that inspires action and empowers communities. Tactical Wealth is not just a podcast; it’s a valuable resource for veterans and their families to thrive in their next chapter.” Added David Gebbia, CEO of Gebbia Media.

    The podcast is sponsored by Siebert.Valor, an initiative from Siebert Financial dedicated to supporting the military community through financial education, career transition resources, and leadership development. This sponsorship reflects a shared commitment to breaking down barriers to financial success for veterans and service members.

    A spokesperson from Siebert Financial Corp., emphasized the company’s commitment:
    “Through Siebert.Valor, we’re focused on breaking down barriers to financial success for the military community. Partnering with Tactical Wealth allows us to amplify the stories and strategies that can truly make a difference in veterans’ lives.”

    The first season of Tactical Wealth features powerful conversations with high-profile guests, including Patrick J. Murphy, the first Iraq War veteran elected to Congress and former Under Secretary of the Army; General Laura Richardson, four-star General and Commander of U.S. Southern Command; Mitch Aguiar, a Navy SEAL veteran, entrepreneur, and MMA fighter, and more. Available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and other major platforms. New episodes will be released weekly throughout the season.

    For more information, please visit: tacticalwealth.transistor.fm

    About Gebbia Media
    Gebbia Media is an artist-first entertainment company focused on the development and promotion of music and sports talent, catalog acquisition, and bold storytelling across film, television, podcasts, and digital media. As a subsidiary of Siebert Financial Corp. (Nasdaq: SIEB), Gebbia Media also functions as the in-house production and marketing agency for Siebert and its subsidiaries, creating branded content, advertising strategies, and social media campaigns.

    Driven by the belief that creativity, raw talent, and commercial acumen can birth extraordinary storytelling, Gebbia Media is building a premier media company rooted in cultural impact and financial strategy. By fusing compelling content with financial infrastructure, the company is redefining how audiences are engaged, enhancing financial literacy, expanding market reach, and unlocking new monetization opportunities across platforms. Gebbia Media’s operations span music, sports, and entertainment, creating powerful synergies between culture and commerce within Siebert’s broader ecosystem. More information is available at www.gebbiamedia.com.

    About Siebert Financial Corp.
    Siebert is a diversified financial services company and has been a member of the NYSE since 1967, when Muriel Siebert became the first woman to own a seat on the NYSE and the first to head one of its member firms.

    Siebert operates through its subsidiaries Muriel Siebert & Co., LLC, Siebert AdvisorNXT, LLC, Park Wilshire Companies, Inc., RISE Financial Services, LLC, Siebert Technologies, LLC, and StockCross Digital Solutions, Ltd, and Gebbia Media LLC. Through these entities, Siebert provides a full range of brokerage and financial advisory services, including securities brokerage; investment banking and capital markets services; investment advisory and insurance offerings; securities lending; corporate stock plan administration solutions; in addition to entertainment and media productions. For over 55 years, Siebert has been a company that values its clients, shareholders, and employees. More information is available at www.siebert.com.

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
    The statements contained in this press release that are not historical facts, including statements about our beliefs and expectations, are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements include statements preceded by, followed by, or that include the words “may,” “could,” “would,” “should,” “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “plan,” “estimate,” “target,” “project,” “intend” and similar words or expressions. In addition, any statements that refer to expectations, projections, or other characterizations of future events or circumstances are forward-looking statements.

    These forward-looking statements, which reflect beliefs, objectives, and expectations as of the date hereof, are based on the best judgment of the management of Siebert. All forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made. Such forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions relating to factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated in such statements, including, without limitation, the following: economic, social and political conditions, global economic downturns resulting from extraordinary events; securities industry risks; interest rate risks; liquidity risks; credit risk with clients and counterparties; risk of liability for errors in clearing functions; systemic risk; systems failures, delays and capacity constraints; network security risks; competition; reliance on external service providers; new laws and regulations affecting Siebert’s business; net capital requirements; extensive regulation, regulatory uncertainties and legal matters; failure to maintain relationships with employees, customers, business partners or governmental entities; the inability to achieve synergies or to implement integration plans; and other consequences associated with risks and uncertainties detailed in Part I, Item 1A – Risk Factors of Siebert’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, and Siebert’s filings with the SEC.

    Siebert cautions that the foregoing list of factors is not exclusive, and new factors may emerge, or changes to the foregoing factors may occur that could impact its business. Siebert undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise these statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except to the extent required by the federal securities laws.

    Media Contact:
    Deborah Kostroun, Zito Partners
    deborah@zitopartners.com
    +1 (201) 403-8185

    The MIL Network –

    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Gebbia Media Launches Tactical Wealth Podcast for the Military and Veteran Community

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MIAMI, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Gebbia Media – a wholly owned subsidiary of Siebert Financial (NASDAQ: SIEB) – has announced the launch of Tactical Wealth: From Military to Money, a new podcast dedicated to empowering the military and veteran community through candid conversations, practical advice, and inspiring stories from some of the most accomplished, respected, and influential veterans who have successfully navigated life after service.

    Hosted by Kaj Larsen, former Navy SEAL, journalist, and entrepreneur, Tactical Wealth highlights veterans who have successfully transitioned from military service to financial success, entrepreneurship, and leadership in civilian life. Each episode provides veterans and service members with tactical lessons to build wealth and lead with impact beyond the uniform.

    “This podcast is a mission; it’s about giving the military community, veterans, and their families the tactical knowledge and financial confidence to win after service,” said Kaj Larsen. “We’re shining a light on veterans who have successfully built wealth and impact beyond the uniform and sharing the tactical steps that got them there.”

    The launch of the podcast is part of Gebbia Media’s broader strategic content portfolio, which includes a growing roster of original podcasts, documentaries, and factual entertainment. Gebbia Media is focused on telling mission-driven stories across themes such as sports, women’s empowerment, entrepreneurship, among others. Tactical Wealth joins this expanding slate of content that is designed to inform, inspire, and create lasting cultural and financial impact across platforms.

    “At Gebbia Media, we’re driven to create content that inspires action and empowers communities. Tactical Wealth is not just a podcast; it’s a valuable resource for veterans and their families to thrive in their next chapter.” Added David Gebbia, CEO of Gebbia Media.

    The podcast is sponsored by Siebert.Valor, an initiative from Siebert Financial dedicated to supporting the military community through financial education, career transition resources, and leadership development. This sponsorship reflects a shared commitment to breaking down barriers to financial success for veterans and service members.

    A spokesperson from Siebert Financial Corp., emphasized the company’s commitment:
    “Through Siebert.Valor, we’re focused on breaking down barriers to financial success for the military community. Partnering with Tactical Wealth allows us to amplify the stories and strategies that can truly make a difference in veterans’ lives.”

    The first season of Tactical Wealth features powerful conversations with high-profile guests, including Patrick J. Murphy, the first Iraq War veteran elected to Congress and former Under Secretary of the Army; General Laura Richardson, four-star General and Commander of U.S. Southern Command; Mitch Aguiar, a Navy SEAL veteran, entrepreneur, and MMA fighter, and more. Available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and other major platforms. New episodes will be released weekly throughout the season.

    For more information, please visit: tacticalwealth.transistor.fm

    About Gebbia Media
    Gebbia Media is an artist-first entertainment company focused on the development and promotion of music and sports talent, catalog acquisition, and bold storytelling across film, television, podcasts, and digital media. As a subsidiary of Siebert Financial Corp. (Nasdaq: SIEB), Gebbia Media also functions as the in-house production and marketing agency for Siebert and its subsidiaries, creating branded content, advertising strategies, and social media campaigns.

    Driven by the belief that creativity, raw talent, and commercial acumen can birth extraordinary storytelling, Gebbia Media is building a premier media company rooted in cultural impact and financial strategy. By fusing compelling content with financial infrastructure, the company is redefining how audiences are engaged, enhancing financial literacy, expanding market reach, and unlocking new monetization opportunities across platforms. Gebbia Media’s operations span music, sports, and entertainment, creating powerful synergies between culture and commerce within Siebert’s broader ecosystem. More information is available at www.gebbiamedia.com.

    About Siebert Financial Corp.
    Siebert is a diversified financial services company and has been a member of the NYSE since 1967, when Muriel Siebert became the first woman to own a seat on the NYSE and the first to head one of its member firms.

    Siebert operates through its subsidiaries Muriel Siebert & Co., LLC, Siebert AdvisorNXT, LLC, Park Wilshire Companies, Inc., RISE Financial Services, LLC, Siebert Technologies, LLC, and StockCross Digital Solutions, Ltd, and Gebbia Media LLC. Through these entities, Siebert provides a full range of brokerage and financial advisory services, including securities brokerage; investment banking and capital markets services; investment advisory and insurance offerings; securities lending; corporate stock plan administration solutions; in addition to entertainment and media productions. For over 55 years, Siebert has been a company that values its clients, shareholders, and employees. More information is available at www.siebert.com.

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
    The statements contained in this press release that are not historical facts, including statements about our beliefs and expectations, are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements include statements preceded by, followed by, or that include the words “may,” “could,” “would,” “should,” “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “plan,” “estimate,” “target,” “project,” “intend” and similar words or expressions. In addition, any statements that refer to expectations, projections, or other characterizations of future events or circumstances are forward-looking statements.

    These forward-looking statements, which reflect beliefs, objectives, and expectations as of the date hereof, are based on the best judgment of the management of Siebert. All forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made. Such forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions relating to factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated in such statements, including, without limitation, the following: economic, social and political conditions, global economic downturns resulting from extraordinary events; securities industry risks; interest rate risks; liquidity risks; credit risk with clients and counterparties; risk of liability for errors in clearing functions; systemic risk; systems failures, delays and capacity constraints; network security risks; competition; reliance on external service providers; new laws and regulations affecting Siebert’s business; net capital requirements; extensive regulation, regulatory uncertainties and legal matters; failure to maintain relationships with employees, customers, business partners or governmental entities; the inability to achieve synergies or to implement integration plans; and other consequences associated with risks and uncertainties detailed in Part I, Item 1A – Risk Factors of Siebert’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, and Siebert’s filings with the SEC.

    Siebert cautions that the foregoing list of factors is not exclusive, and new factors may emerge, or changes to the foregoing factors may occur that could impact its business. Siebert undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise these statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except to the extent required by the federal securities laws.

    Media Contact:
    Deborah Kostroun, Zito Partners
    deborah@zitopartners.com
    +1 (201) 403-8185

    The MIL Network –

    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: PMGC Holdings Inc. Signs Non-Binding LOI to Acquire CNC Aerospace Manufacturer Generating $4.5 Million in Annual Revenue

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • Serves Multiple Tier-1 Aerospace Clients
    • AS9100 and ISO 9001-Certified CNC Manufacturer

    NEWPORT BEACH, Calif., June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — PMGC Holdings Inc. (Nasdaq: ELAB) (the “Company,” “PMGC,” “we,” or “us”), a diversified public holding company, today announced that it has entered into a non-binding Letter of Intent (“LOI”) to acquire a U.S.-based, CNC machining company specializing in manufacturing high-complexity components for the aerospace and defense sectors.

    About the Target Company

    The target company, founded in 1948 is AS9100 and ISO 9001certified CNC machining firm specializing in precision aerospace components. With over 75 years of experience, the company operates a modern facility equipped with 5-axis CNC machines, advanced CAD/CAM and ERP systems, and offers a full range of secondary services including grinding, EDM, and honing. It serves commercial and defense aerospace customers with ultra-tight tolerances and cleanroom-capable production, delivering high-quality parts backed by strong customer service and long-standing client relationships.

    With a 2024 revenue base of approximately $4.5 million and $500,000 in adjusted EBITDA, the business combines consistent profitability with a reputation for quality and reliability. Target’s growth has been entirely organic—built on decades of customer referrals, repeat business, and trusted vendor relationships.

    Strategic Fit

    This marks PMGC’s latest step in its strategy to acquire specialized U.S. manufacturers operating in sectors where quality, certification, and technical expertise create long-term value. The aerospace sector, in particular, is experiencing renewed demand for certified domestic suppliers as federal incentives and geopolitical realignment continue to push toward onshoring and supply chain resiliency.

    “This company exemplifies the kind of certified, mission-critical supplier we aim to partner with,” said Graydon Bensler, Chief Executive Officer of PMGC. “Its deep integration into high-trust aerospace supply chains, paired with consistent earnings and a strong operational foundation, make it a natural fit for our platform.”

    The closing of this anticipated acquisition is subject to customary conditions, including completion of due diligence, certain corporate approvals, and execution and delivery of definitive documentation. We cannot assure that closing of the acquisition will occur.

    About PMGC Holdings Inc.

    PMGC Holdings Inc. is a diversified holding company that manages and grows its portfolio through strategic acquisitions, investments, and development across various industries. Currently, our portfolio consists of three wholly owned subsidiaries: Northstrive Biosciences Inc., PMGC Research Inc., and PMGC Capital LLC. We are committed to exploring opportunities in multiple sectors to maximize growth and value. For more information, please visit https://www.pmgcholdings.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    Statements contained in this press release regarding matters that are not historical facts are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended. Words such as “believes,” “expects,” “plans,” “potential,” “would” and “future” or similar expressions such as “look forward” are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this press release and are neither historical facts nor assurances of future performance. Instead, they are based only on our current beliefs, expectations and assumptions regarding the future of our business, future plans and strategies, projections, anticipated events and trends, the economy, activities of regulators and future regulations and other future conditions. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict and many of which are outside of our control. Although the Company believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that such expectations will turn out to be correct, and the Company cautions investors that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results. Therefore, you should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements. These and other risks are described more fully in PMGC Holdings’ filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), including the “Risk Factors” section of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, filed with the SEC on March 28, 2025, and its other documents subsequently filed with or furnished to the SEC. Investors and security holders are urged to read these documents free of charge on the SEC’s web site at www.sec.gov. All forward-looking statements contained in this press release speak only as of the date on which they were made. Except to the extent required by law, the Company undertakes no obligation to update such statements to reflect events that occur or circumstances that exist after the date on which they were made.

    IR Contact:

    IR@pmgcholdings.com

    The MIL Network –

    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: SIOS Technology Announces Strategic Partnership with FCS InfoTech to Deliver High Availability and Disaster Recovery Solutions Across India and the GCC Region

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN MATEO, Calif., June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SIOS Technology Corp., a leading provider of application high availability (HA) and disaster recovery (DR) solutions, today announced a strategic partnership with FCS InfoTech, a rapidly growing IT solutions and services company based in India. The alliance is designed to empower enterprises across India and the GCC region, including Oman, with robust, cost-effective high availability and disaster recovery capabilities for critical applications.

    “Our partnership with FCS InfoTech expands our footprint in a region where resiliency and uptime are essential to digital success,” said Masahiro Arai, Chief Operating Officer, SIOS Technology. “FCS brings deep regional knowledge and a strong track record in enterprise IT services, making them a trusted partner to deliver SIOS HA and DR solutions to businesses with mission-critical needs.”

    With an extensive customer base and proven expertise in implementing enterprise IT solutions, FCS InfoTech will serve as a key channel and implementation partner for SIOS LifeKeeper and SIOS DataKeeper. These technologies provide seamless HA and DR protection for SAP, Oracle, SQL Server, and other critical workloads across cloud, hybrid, and on-premises environments.

    “In today’s digital era, organizations are placing increased emphasis on IT resilience and uninterrupted service,” said Mr Vishal Upasham, CTO, FCS InfoTech.

    The SIOS HA/DR software enables enterprises to:

    • Protect critical applications with proven clustering and replication technologies
    • Avoid unnecessary investments in costly SAN hardware or expensive application editions
    • Achieve SLAs for uptime and disaster recovery with minimal operational complexity
    • Benefit from local support and implementation from FCS’s certified experts

    Together, SIOS Technology and FCS InfoTech are uniquely positioned to serve the growing demand for IT resiliency in a wide range of industries including finance, manufacturing, government, and energy across India and the Gulf Cooperation Council region.

    About SIOS Technology Corp.
    SIOS Technology Corp. high availability and disaster recovery solutions ensure availability and eliminate data loss for critical Windows and Linux applications operating across physical, virtual, cloud, and hybrid cloud environments. SIOS clustering software is essential for any IT infrastructure with applications requiring a high degree of resiliency, ensuring uptime without sacrificing performance or data, protecting businesses from local failures and regional outages, planned and unplanned. Founded in 1999, SIOS Technology Corp. (https://us.sios.com) is headquartered in San Mateo, California, with offices worldwide.

    SIOS, SIOS Technology, SIOS DataKeeper, SIOS LifeKeeper, and associated logos are registered trademarks or trademarks of SIOS Technology Corp. and/or its affiliates in the United States and/or other countries. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

    About FCS InfoTech

    FCS InfoTech is a leading IT infrastructure and services provider running for a decade with a strong presence in India and the GCC region by Mr. Amir Farooqui, CEO and Hammad Khan, CIO. Known for its strategic, innovative, and customer-driven approach, FCS InfoTech offers a broad portfolio of services across:

    • Digital Transformation
    • Cloud Computing & Migration
    • Cyber Resiliency & Security
    • Enterprise IT Managed Services

    FCS InfoTech partners with public sector organizations, SMEs, companies to drive operational excellence, modernize legacy systems, and align IT infrastructure with long-term business goals.

    Media Contact:

    Beth Winkowski
    Winkowski Public Relations, LLC for SIOS
    978-649-7189
    bethwinkowski@US.SIOS.com 

    The MIL Network –

    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: NextNRG Reports Preliminary May 2025 Revenue Growth of 148% Year-Over-Year

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    AI-driven Energy Pioneer Delivers Best Month in Company History

    YTD Revenue Surpasses Total Revenue for All of 2024

    MIAMI, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NextNRG, Inc. (Nasdaq: NXXT), a pioneer in AI-driven energy innovation transforming how energy is produced, managed, and delivered through its Next Utility Operating System®, smart microgrids, wireless EV charging, and mobile fuel delivery, today announced preliminary unaudited financial results for May 2025.

    May 2025 Highlights:

    • Revenue: $6.6 million, up 148% year-over-year
    • Year-to-date revenue through May reached approximately $28.89 million, surpassing full-year 2024 revenue of approximately $27 million

    “We’re proud to report another month of strong revenue growth,” said Michael D. Farkas, Executive Chairman and CEO of NextNRG. “This marks our fifth consecutive record month, driven by the expansion of our operations and rising demand from partners nationwide. It reflects our continued operational momentum and the scalability of our model as we enter new markets. Crossing our full-year 2024 revenue total before mid-year is a clear indication that our execution strategy is working.”

    NextNRG’s revenues continue to grow in scale, with strong adoption from commercial fleets and an expanding network of strategic partnerships. The company is also preparing to deploy its Next Utility Operating System®, AI-powered microgrid systems, and wireless EV charging products in key markets.

    Note on Preliminary Results
    The financial results for May 2025 are preliminary and unaudited. Final results may differ and will be confirmed upon the completion of standard month-end closing procedures.

    About NextNRG, Inc.
    NextNRG Inc. (NextNRG) is Powering What’s Next by implementing artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) into renewable energy, next-generation energy infrastructure, battery storage, wireless electric vehicle (EV) charging and on-demand mobile fuel delivery to create an integrated ecosystem.

    At the core of NextNRG’s strategy is its Next Utility Operating System®, which leverages AI and ML to help make existing utilities’ energy management as efficient as possible, and the deployment of NextNRG smart microgrids, which utilize AI-driven energy management alongside solar power and battery storage to enhance energy efficiency, reduce costs and improve grid resiliency. These microgrids are designed to serve commercial properties, healthcare campuses, universities, parking garages, rural and tribal lands, recreational facilities and government properties, expanding energy accessibility while supporting decarbonization initiatives.

    NextNRG continues to expand its growing fleet of fuel delivery trucks and national footprint, including the acquisition of Yoshi Mobility’s fuel division and Shell Oil’s trucks, further solidifying its position as a leader in the on-demand fueling industry. NextNRG is also integrating sustainable energy solutions into its mobile fueling operations. The company hopes to be an integral part of assisting its fleet customers in their transition to EV, providing fuel delivery while advancing efficient energy adoption. The transition process is expected to include the deployment of NextNRG’s innovative wireless EV charging solutions.

    To find out more, visit: www.nextnrg.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Any statement describing NextNRG’s goals, expectations, financial or other projections, intentions, or beliefs is a forward-looking statement and should be considered an at-risk statement. Words such as “expect,” “intends,” “will,” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Such statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, those related to NextNRG’s business and macroeconomic and geopolitical events. These and other risks are described in NextNRG’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission from time to time. NextNRG’s forward-looking statements involve assumptions that, if they never materialize or prove correct, could cause its results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Although NextNRG’s forward-looking statements reflect the good faith judgment of its management, these statements are based only on facts and factors currently known by NextNRG. Except as required by law, NextNRG undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements for any reason. As a result, you are cautioned not to rely on these forward-looking statements.

    Investor Relations Contact
    NextNRG, Inc.
    Sharon Cohen
    SCohen@nextnrg.com

    The MIL Network –

    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: NextNRG Reports Preliminary May 2025 Revenue Growth of 148% Year-Over-Year

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    AI-driven Energy Pioneer Delivers Best Month in Company History

    YTD Revenue Surpasses Total Revenue for All of 2024

    MIAMI, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NextNRG, Inc. (Nasdaq: NXXT), a pioneer in AI-driven energy innovation transforming how energy is produced, managed, and delivered through its Next Utility Operating System®, smart microgrids, wireless EV charging, and mobile fuel delivery, today announced preliminary unaudited financial results for May 2025.

    May 2025 Highlights:

    • Revenue: $6.6 million, up 148% year-over-year
    • Year-to-date revenue through May reached approximately $28.89 million, surpassing full-year 2024 revenue of approximately $27 million

    “We’re proud to report another month of strong revenue growth,” said Michael D. Farkas, Executive Chairman and CEO of NextNRG. “This marks our fifth consecutive record month, driven by the expansion of our operations and rising demand from partners nationwide. It reflects our continued operational momentum and the scalability of our model as we enter new markets. Crossing our full-year 2024 revenue total before mid-year is a clear indication that our execution strategy is working.”

    NextNRG’s revenues continue to grow in scale, with strong adoption from commercial fleets and an expanding network of strategic partnerships. The company is also preparing to deploy its Next Utility Operating System®, AI-powered microgrid systems, and wireless EV charging products in key markets.

    Note on Preliminary Results
    The financial results for May 2025 are preliminary and unaudited. Final results may differ and will be confirmed upon the completion of standard month-end closing procedures.

    About NextNRG, Inc.
    NextNRG Inc. (NextNRG) is Powering What’s Next by implementing artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) into renewable energy, next-generation energy infrastructure, battery storage, wireless electric vehicle (EV) charging and on-demand mobile fuel delivery to create an integrated ecosystem.

    At the core of NextNRG’s strategy is its Next Utility Operating System®, which leverages AI and ML to help make existing utilities’ energy management as efficient as possible, and the deployment of NextNRG smart microgrids, which utilize AI-driven energy management alongside solar power and battery storage to enhance energy efficiency, reduce costs and improve grid resiliency. These microgrids are designed to serve commercial properties, healthcare campuses, universities, parking garages, rural and tribal lands, recreational facilities and government properties, expanding energy accessibility while supporting decarbonization initiatives.

    NextNRG continues to expand its growing fleet of fuel delivery trucks and national footprint, including the acquisition of Yoshi Mobility’s fuel division and Shell Oil’s trucks, further solidifying its position as a leader in the on-demand fueling industry. NextNRG is also integrating sustainable energy solutions into its mobile fueling operations. The company hopes to be an integral part of assisting its fleet customers in their transition to EV, providing fuel delivery while advancing efficient energy adoption. The transition process is expected to include the deployment of NextNRG’s innovative wireless EV charging solutions.

    To find out more, visit: www.nextnrg.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Any statement describing NextNRG’s goals, expectations, financial or other projections, intentions, or beliefs is a forward-looking statement and should be considered an at-risk statement. Words such as “expect,” “intends,” “will,” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Such statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, those related to NextNRG’s business and macroeconomic and geopolitical events. These and other risks are described in NextNRG’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission from time to time. NextNRG’s forward-looking statements involve assumptions that, if they never materialize or prove correct, could cause its results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Although NextNRG’s forward-looking statements reflect the good faith judgment of its management, these statements are based only on facts and factors currently known by NextNRG. Except as required by law, NextNRG undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements for any reason. As a result, you are cautioned not to rely on these forward-looking statements.

    Investor Relations Contact
    NextNRG, Inc.
    Sharon Cohen
    SCohen@nextnrg.com

    The MIL Network –

    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Report Reveals Candidates’ Perspectives on Using AI in the Hiring Process

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DENVER, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In today’s high-pressure hiring environment, where talent teams are expected to do more with less, Employ Inc. remains committed to delivering innovative, intelligent hiring solutions that meet the real-world needs of recruiters and talent acquisition leaders. Employ’s 2025 Job Seeker Nation Report reveals new data that underscores the growing complexity of the job search experience and what it means for hiring teams striving to keep up – especially as AI continues to reshape the hiring landscape. Based on responses from more than 1,500 job seekers, the report finds that 31 percent have used AI to support their job search in 2025, a seven-point increase from last year alone.

    This surge in AI usage is notably pronounced among desk-based professionals in industries like software, finance and government, where high application volumes and fierce competition are the norm. These job seekers are leveraging AI to streamline their own experiences from discovering relevant roles and crafting standout cover letters to analyzing their interview performance, raising the bar for employers, and amplifying the urgency for TA teams to adopt smarter, more adaptive tools.

    Job seekers are feeling the pressure from the competitive job market, and they’re responding by upskilling, especially in AI. Candidates are leaning in, not backing down, and that shift has real implications for talent acquisition teams. The report highlights that 66 percent of respondents reported feeling burned out from job searching, particularly in marketing, healthcare and food service roles. Most of these workers are investing in new skillsets, including AI literacy, to remain competitive.

    Meanwhile, TA teams are also leveraging AI, but not always in the ways candidates expect. While many job seekers are comfortable with AI being used to screen resumes, fewer use AI for resume creation themselves, revealing a gap in how each side engages with technology. This points to evolving comfort levels and expectations around technology’s role in hiring. Tools like Employ’s AI Interview Companion are helping recruiters streamline interviews, reduce bias, and create fairer experiences—benefits that resonate with candidates: 61 percent believe AI has the potential to make hiring more equitable.

    “As AI becomes more deeply embedded in both the candidate and recruiter experience, it’s essential that we use it to enhance—not replace—human connection,” said Stephanie Manzelli, Chief People Officer at Employ. “Candidates today are not just applying for jobs—they’re actively investing in their skills and seeking employers who do the same. That’s an opportunity for companies to differentiate through transparency, development, and trust.”

    Despite growing AI adoption on both sides of the hiring table, one truth remains: human connection matters most. The majority of job seekers (58 percent) still trust HR professionals more than algorithms when navigating the hiring process.

    Key Findings:

    • 1 in 3 job seekers used AI in their job search in 2025, up 7 points from 2024
    • Desk-based candidates in tech and finance are the highest AI adopters
    • 66 percent of job seekers report burnout, fueling interest in upskilling
    • 61 percent believe AI in hiring can reduce bias – but 58 percent still trust humans over machines

    To explore more candidate insights and actionable takeaways for recruiters, download the full 2025 Job Seeker Nation Report here.

    About Employ Inc.
    Employ delivers people-first intelligent hiring solutions that empower companies to overcome their greatest hiring challenges. From startups to Fortune 100 organizations, Employ meets companies where they are—offering tailored solutions that support everything from foundational hiring to advanced talent acquisition strategies. Employ is the only organization to offer companies choice in their hiring technology, providing three unique ATS platforms (JazzHR, Lever, and Jobvite) and AI Companions that work alongside you in your hiring journey. Our intelligent hiring suite is trusted by more than 23,000 customers, including e.l.f. Beauty, Pure Barre, Shutterfly, and Spotify. For more information, visit www.employinc.com.

    The MIL Network –

    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: CURRENC and Galaxy Payroll Group Partner to Develop AI-Powered HR Solutions

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — CURRENC Group Inc. (Nasdaq: CURR) (“CURRENC” or the “Company”), a fintech pioneer empowering financial institutions worldwide with artificial intelligence (AI) solutions, today announced that it has entered a strategic partnership with Galaxy Payroll Group Limited (Nasdaq: GLXG) (“Galaxy Group”) to jointly create innovative AI-powered human resources solutions for CURRENC’s “AI Staff for Hire” platform. Leveraging Galaxy Group’s deep industry expertise and CURRENC’s advanced AI technology, the parties will develop two new modules, AI HR Manager and AI Recruitment Manager, extending CURRENC’s reach to the HR sector.

    CURRENC’s “AI Staff for Hire” platform empowers businesses across the financial industry to automate core functions, reduce operational costs, and make data-driven decisions. Its AI HR Manager module will be customized to streamline internal HR operations, from employee onboarding and performance monitoring to data management and reporting. Meanwhile, the AI Recruitment Manager will optimize the recruitment process, delivering intelligent candidate screening and automated interview scheduling to enhance hiring efficiency. Like all “AI Staff for Hire” solutions, these new HR modules will integrate smoothly into businesses’ existing workflows, enabling rapid implementation and adoption.

    “Collaborating with human resources leader Galaxy Group marks another milestone in our mission to transform business operations across the financial industry with AI-powered solutions,” said Alex Kong, Founder and Executive Chairman of CURRENC. “This partnership highlights how our ‘AI Staff for Hire’ platform can be seamlessly adapted to help clients in diverse financial sectors scale efficiently, reduce costs, and deliver superior customer experiences, demonstrating CURRENC’s leadership in AI innovation. Looking ahead, the Company is poised to build on this success, exploring additional AI-driven opportunities to facilitate digitalization and drive sustainable growth across industries.” 

    About CURRENC Group Inc.
    CURRENC Group Inc. (Nasdaq: CURR) is a fintech pioneer dedicated to transforming global financial services through artificial intelligence (AI). The Company empowers financial institutions worldwide with comprehensive AI solutions, including SEAMLESS AI Call Centre and other AI-powered Agents designed to reduce costs, increase efficiency and boost customer satisfaction for banks, insurance, telecommunications companies, government agencies and other financial institutions. The Company’s digital remittance platform also enables e-wallets, remittance companies, and corporations to provide real-time, 24/7 global payment services, advancing financial access across underserved communities.

    Safe Harbor Statement
    This press release contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about the Company’s beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties, and a number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by words or phrases such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “target,” “aim,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “potential,” “continue,” “is/are likely to” or other similar expressions. Further information regarding these and other risks, uncertainties, or factors is included in the Company’s filings with the SEC. All information provided in this press release is as of the date of this press release, and the Company does not undertake any duty to update such information, except as required under applicable law.

    Investor & Media Contact
    CURRENC Group Investor Relations
    Email: investors@currencgroup.com

    The MIL Network –

    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: CURRENC and Galaxy Payroll Group Partner to Develop AI-Powered HR Solutions

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — CURRENC Group Inc. (Nasdaq: CURR) (“CURRENC” or the “Company”), a fintech pioneer empowering financial institutions worldwide with artificial intelligence (AI) solutions, today announced that it has entered a strategic partnership with Galaxy Payroll Group Limited (Nasdaq: GLXG) (“Galaxy Group”) to jointly create innovative AI-powered human resources solutions for CURRENC’s “AI Staff for Hire” platform. Leveraging Galaxy Group’s deep industry expertise and CURRENC’s advanced AI technology, the parties will develop two new modules, AI HR Manager and AI Recruitment Manager, extending CURRENC’s reach to the HR sector.

    CURRENC’s “AI Staff for Hire” platform empowers businesses across the financial industry to automate core functions, reduce operational costs, and make data-driven decisions. Its AI HR Manager module will be customized to streamline internal HR operations, from employee onboarding and performance monitoring to data management and reporting. Meanwhile, the AI Recruitment Manager will optimize the recruitment process, delivering intelligent candidate screening and automated interview scheduling to enhance hiring efficiency. Like all “AI Staff for Hire” solutions, these new HR modules will integrate smoothly into businesses’ existing workflows, enabling rapid implementation and adoption.

    “Collaborating with human resources leader Galaxy Group marks another milestone in our mission to transform business operations across the financial industry with AI-powered solutions,” said Alex Kong, Founder and Executive Chairman of CURRENC. “This partnership highlights how our ‘AI Staff for Hire’ platform can be seamlessly adapted to help clients in diverse financial sectors scale efficiently, reduce costs, and deliver superior customer experiences, demonstrating CURRENC’s leadership in AI innovation. Looking ahead, the Company is poised to build on this success, exploring additional AI-driven opportunities to facilitate digitalization and drive sustainable growth across industries.” 

    About CURRENC Group Inc.
    CURRENC Group Inc. (Nasdaq: CURR) is a fintech pioneer dedicated to transforming global financial services through artificial intelligence (AI). The Company empowers financial institutions worldwide with comprehensive AI solutions, including SEAMLESS AI Call Centre and other AI-powered Agents designed to reduce costs, increase efficiency and boost customer satisfaction for banks, insurance, telecommunications companies, government agencies and other financial institutions. The Company’s digital remittance platform also enables e-wallets, remittance companies, and corporations to provide real-time, 24/7 global payment services, advancing financial access across underserved communities.

    Safe Harbor Statement
    This press release contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about the Company’s beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties, and a number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by words or phrases such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “target,” “aim,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “potential,” “continue,” “is/are likely to” or other similar expressions. Further information regarding these and other risks, uncertainties, or factors is included in the Company’s filings with the SEC. All information provided in this press release is as of the date of this press release, and the Company does not undertake any duty to update such information, except as required under applicable law.

    Investor & Media Contact
    CURRENC Group Investor Relations
    Email: investors@currencgroup.com

    The MIL Network –

    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Africa: “Girl Education Today for Women Empowerment Tomorrow”: Emphasizes Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej on International Women’s Day 2025

    Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany together with First Ladies of Africa who are also their Ambassadors, Ministries of Health, Education, Communication & Gender, mark ‘International Women’s Day 2025’, through their impactful development programs, continuing their 13-year legacy of empowering women and girls. 

    Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and One of the Most Influential African Women for Six Consecutive Years (2019 – 2024) expressed, “Happy International Women’s Day to all the remarkable women and girls around the world!  

    Empowering girls and women is at the core of all our initiatives and programs at Merck Foundation. I recognize the immense potential of women to thrive, succeed and excel in any domain they choose, yet they often lack the conducive environment to fully realize their capabilities, especially in underserved communities.  

    Therefore, together with our Ambassadors, The First Ladies of Africa, we mark International Women’s Day every day since the last 13 years through our development programs and initiatives such as ‘More Than a Mother’, ‘Merck Foundation Capacity Advancement’, ‘Educating Linda’, and ‘STEM Program’.” 

    “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother” is a strong movement that aims to empower infertile and childless women through access to information, education and change of mindset.  

    “I am thrilled to share that out of the 2,282 scholarships awarded across 52 countries in 44 critical and underserved specialties, 1063 scholarships, that is nearly 50% have been granted to female medical graduates, empowering them to become future healthcare experts and leaders. 

    I am especially proud that we have awarded over 716 scholarships to young doctors, dedicated to advancing women’s health by strengthening reproductive, sexual health, and fertility care capacity.” 

    Merck Foundation CEO strongly believes that Education is one of the most critical areas of women empowerment.  

    “I am happy to share that through our “Educating Linda” Program, together with my dear sisters, our Ambassadors, we are supporting the education by providing over 950 scholarships for high performance and underprivileged African schoolgirls, empowering them to complete their studies and reach their full potential and also providing essential school items for thousands of schoolgirls in many African countries such as Botswana, Burundi, Malawi, The Gambia, Nigeria, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Ghana, Namibia, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Cabo Verde and more. 

    Moreover, we have benefitted thousands of girls through our awareness campaign through many initiates like the release of inspiring songs, children’s storybooks, animation films, TV Program and awards for best media, song, film & fashion designs, all aimed at promoting girl education today for women’s empowerment tomorrow”, emphasized Senator Rasha Kelej. 

    Merck Foundation also actively empowers women in Science and Technology through its STEM Program and the annual Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit (MARS) Awards that recognize and celebrate the Best African Women Researchers and Best Young African Researchers, fostering research excellence.  

    “Our goal is to empower women and young African researchers, enhance their research capacity, and promote their contributions to STEM,” emphasized Dr. Kelej.  

    Watch the Episodes of “Our Africa by Merck Foundation” TV program on Supporting Girl Education:  

    Episode 2: https://apo-opa.co/3TJnIlf

    Episode 11: https://apo-opa.co/3T5CQcE

    Episode 14: https://apo-opa.co/4kUtgFA

    Listen to Merck Foundation song about Supporting Girl Education here:  

    1. Watch, share & subscribe to the “Girl Can” song here, sung by two famous singers, Irene and Cwezi from Liberia and Ghana respectively: https://apo-opa.co/407Ntj9

    2. Watch, share & subscribe the “Like Them” song here, sung by Kenneth, a famous singer from Uganda: https://apo-opa.co/4kV21e5

    3. Watch, share & subscribe “Take me to School” song here, sung by Wezi, Afro-soul singer from Zambia, to support girls’ education: https://apo-opa.co/3ZGPClx

    4. Watch share & subscribe “Tu Podes Sim” Portuguese song, which means “Yes, You Can” in English by Blaze and Tamyris Moiane, singers from Mozambique in English here: https://apo-opa.co/4lhKJaL 

    5. Watch, share & subscribe “Brighter day” song by Sean K and Cwesi Oteng from Namibia and Ghana respectively: https://apo-opa.co/3HWDu9W

    Watch the Merck Foundation Animation Films to Support Girl Education : 

    Ride into to Future: https://apo-opa.co/4lhKTin

    Jackeline’s Rescue: https://apo-opa.co/3ZKEFzv

    Read the Merck Foundation storybook addressing the importance of Girl Education: 

    1. To read Educating Linda Storybook, pls visit: https://apo-opa.co/44lkNEv

    2. To read Jackline’s Rescue Storybook, pls visit: https://apo-opa.co/4nhP6Ve

    3. To read Ride into the Future Storybook, pls visit: https://apo-opa.co/4k3zAJO

    4. To read Not Who You Are Storybook, pls visit: https://apo-opa.co/4k3zFNC

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Merck Foundation.

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    Community Awareness Program Manager
    +91 9310087613
    +91 9319606669
    mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com

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    About Merck Foundation:  
    The Merck Foundation, established in 2017, is the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, aims to improve the health and wellbeing of people and advance their lives through science and technology. Our efforts are primarily focused on improving access to quality & equitable healthcare solutions in underserved communities, building healthcare & scientific research capacity, empowering girls in education and empowering people in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) with a special focus on women and youth. All Merck Foundation press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck Foundation Website.  Please visit www.Merck-Foundation.com to read more. Follow the social media of Merck Foundation: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/40mEwlR), X (https://apo-opa.co/4ngMjLO), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/3HVBxui), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4lkw0Mb), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/4k8LPF5) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/3FU9QSe). 

    The Merck Foundation is dedicated to improving social and health outcomes for communities in need. While it collaborates with various partners, including governments to achieve its humanitarian goals, the foundation remains strictly neutral in political matters. It does not engage in or support any political activities, elections, or regimes, focusing solely on its mission to elevate humanity and enhance well-being while maintaining a strict non-political stance in all of its endeavors. 

    MIL OSI Africa –

    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Africa: African leaders urge United States (U.S.) to embrace investment-driven partnerships and review tariffs


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    African leaders have called on Monday for an urgent review of U.S. tariffs on African exports, urging a shift towards transformative partnerships and investment in Africa’s economic potential.

    Addressing more than 2,000 government and business leaders, and other delegates at the U.S.-Africa business summit in the capital Luanda, Angolan President João Lourenço said: “It is time to replace the logic of aid with the logic of investment and trade.”

    He urged U.S. companies to diversify beyond traditional oil and mineral extraction and invest in sectors such as automotive manufacturing, shipbuilding, tourism, cement production, and steel production.

    African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, added, “We’re not seeking aid, but building co-created solutions.” He called for the removal of punitive tariffs and visa restrictions, noting that Africa’s 1.3 billion people and abundant resources remain among the world’s most significant untapped economic opportunities.

    “This should not just be a summit, but a call to action. Together, let’s walk the pathways to prosperity—with unity, purpose, and Agenda 2063 as our guide,” he told the summit.

    In his remarks, African Development Bank Group President Dr. Akinwumi Adesina said, “We should review the high tariffs on African countries. What is needed is more trade between Africa and the U.S., not less.”

    African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretary General Wamkele Mene reinforced Africa’s integration agenda, highlighting the importance of open regional markets. “The undertaking of the AfCFTA is an ambitious one—It has to be ambitious,” Mene said. He emphasized that the success of AfCFTA is essential to scale investment, reduce fragmentation, and accelerate industrial development across the continent.

    From rhetoric to action: Building real partnerships

    The central message was clear: the era of aid dependency is over, and the time for transformative investment partnerships has arrived. The leaders called for bold, strategic investments to unlock Africa’s trillion-dollar potential.

    Responding to the call for deeper engagement, U.S. officials acknowledged Africa’s growing economic importance and the need to reset perceptions. Senior State Department Bureau Official Troy Fitrell said, “There are business leaders in the U.S. who need to understand the opportunities that lie in doing business with Africa. Our mission going forward will be to find them—and bring them in.”

    The U.S.-Africa Business Summit promotes economic cooperation and investment between the United States and Africa with a focus on fostering sustainable and inclusive economic growth. By bringing together leaders from government, business, and civil society, the summit provides a platform to discuss key issues and opportunities in the U.S.–Africa relations, ultimately driving growth and development on both sides.

    Adesina pointed to the Lobito corridor as a concrete example of strategic investment already underway.

    “That is why the African Development Bank is a key strategic partner with the U.S., Angola, and Zambia on the development of the Lobito corridor,” he said. This critical corridor will link the vast areas of Zambia and the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the port of Angola, improving mineral supplies, unlocking agricultural potential, and creating jobs.

    The African Development Fund, the soft loan arm of the Bank Group, will be providing $500 million in support of the development of the Lobito Corridor. Additionally, the African Development Bank will provide $1 billion over five years for complementary investments around the corridor, including agricultural value chains, roads, and energy infrastructure.

    Act on the data, not perceptions

    The Bank President went further: “As we build transport corridors, let us also build strategic partnership corridors. Strategic partnerships that prioritize capital investments in infrastructure, agriculture, minerals industrialization, and development of digital infrastructure, as well as capital markets.”

    He charged U.S. investors: “Act on the data, not perceptions. Think Africa. Think opportunities. Think competition. From the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation to the Export-Import Bank of the United States, as well as institutional investors and capital allocations, invest in Africa. Let’s make America and Africa great again.”

    Corporate Council on Africa President Florie Liser challenged summit delegates to embrace true partnership: “Beyond deals, let’s strive for lasting transformation.” As part of the opening ceremony of the Summit, the Corporate Council on Africa honored Dr. Adesina with its Distinguished Economic Leadership Award, recognizing his significant contributions to Africa’s transformation.

    Council Deputy Chairman, Mr. Jean Raymond Boulle, conferred the award, describing how the African Development Bank has impacted millions of Africans under Adesina’s leadership, while transforming the Bank to a world-class institution and a partner of choice.

    Akinwumi Adesina, who will complete his second and final five-year term as President of the African Development Bank Group on 31 August, has led for the past decade transformative projects across Africa under the Bank’s five strategic priorities, the “High 5s”. They have positively impacted the lives of more than 565 million people on the continent.

    Speaking at a high-level event hosted by Africa50, a pioneering infrastructure investment platform dedicated to accelerating project development and delivery across Africa, Adesina emphasized the urgent need to scale local financing solutions—especially in local currencies—to mitigate forex volatility, reduce risk mismatches, and enhance the bankability and stability of infrastructure projects for global investors.

    The event, titled “Unlocking Capital for Africa’s Infrastructure through Innovative Finance,” featured a high-level panel discussion on asset recycling, moderated by CNN’s Richard Quest, with insights from Alain Ebobissé, CEO of Africa50; Brook Taye, Director General of Ethiopia Investment Holdings; and Armando Manuel, Chairman of Fundo Soberano de Angola.

    Together, they explored how innovative models, such as asset recycling, can unlock capital and accelerate infrastructure development across Africa.

    Alain Ebobissé stated that the asset recycling model has been successfully implemented in many countries worldwide.

    “In implementing this initiative in Africa, we are pursuing three objectives. First, monetizing assets—ensuring that, instead of owning only a bridge, you receive cash that you can reinvest in your assets. Second, improving the efficiency of the asset by bringing in first-class operators to help us manage those assets. Third, and most importantly, we aim to bring pension funds and other investors interested in cash flow-generating assets to finance these projects,” Ebobissé explained.

    Adesina said over the past decade, the African Development Bank Group has invested over $55 billion in infrastructure, including regional projects, making the Bank the largest financier of infrastructure in Africa.

    The African Development Bank established Africa50 as a private equity infrastructure platform, comprising a project development company and a project finance company, to support the development of infrastructure with market-rate returns.

    Africa’s missing share of a $2.9 trillion opportunity

    The Bank President informed the audience that, in the past eight years since its establishment, Africa50 has invested in a portfolio of infrastructure projects worth over $8 billion.

    “But more is needed, especially from private sector investors,” stated Adesina. “Africa should be well positioned to attract some of the $2.9 trillion global green bonds. However, the continent represents less than 1% of global green bond issuance. Because most of Africa’s infrastructure is yet to be built, this represents a huge opportunity for green bond issuances to build green infrastructure, reduce carbon emissions, and build climate resilience.”

    The African Development Bank launched the Alliance for Green Infrastructure in Africa (AGIA) to mobilize $500 million for project preparation and development, as well as $10 billion for green infrastructure investments. Africa50 is the General Partner for the AGIA-Project Development Fund, with several Limited Partners, including the G7 countries.

    To mitigate risks at scale across Africa, the African Development Bank is establishing the Africa Risk Mitigation Agency, which will consolidate all banks’ guarantee instruments into a single entity. The entity will support guarantees for equity risk, climate risk, refinancing risk, and political risk.

    He emphasized that Africa50 is also pioneering asset recycling, enabling governments to recover their investment in infrastructure by transferring brownfield assets to the private sector. This can help to reduce debt burdens and provide liquidity for governments.

    “The Senegambia bridge, which the African Development Bank financed with $104 million, was the first to be used for the asset recycling program. It worked successfully, as Gambia received $104 million it spent back through Africa50,” he added. “Following this, several asset recycling initiatives are being proposed for many infrastructure projects financed for governments by the African Development Bank Group.”

    The renewed momentum for U.S.-Africa business partnerships received strong political backing, with the participation of seven Heads of State, several Prime Ministers, and leaders of key regional organizations.

    Attending dignitaries included Presidents Denis Sassou Nguesso (Republic of the Congo), Faustin-Archange Touadéra (Central African Republic), Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo (Democratic Republic of the Congo), Taye Aske Selassie (Ethiopia), Duma Gideon Boko (Botswana), Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah (Namibia), and Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema (Gabon); Prime Ministers Gervais Ndirakobuca (Burundi), Robert Beugré Mambé (Côte d’Ivoire), Russell Mmiso Dlamini (Eswatini), Manuel Osa Nsue Nsua (Equatorial Guinea), Christian Louis Ntsay (Madagascar), and Deputy Prime Minister Nthomeng Justina Majara (Lesotho); as well as Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Ambassador Gilberto Da Piedade Verissimo, Chairperson of the Economic Community of Central African States, and Elias M. Magosi, Executive Secretary of the Southern African Development Community.

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

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

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

    MIL OSI Africa –

    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: China to promote sales of new energy vehicles in counties, townships

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

    BEIJING, June 24 — China will launch “a new energy vehicle (NEV) consumption season” in its vast county and township regions to unlock NEV sales potential, the Ministry of Commerce said Tuesday.

    Running from July through December, the consumption season will fully harness the efforts of local governments, industry associations, and enterprises.

    Localities are tasked with actively implementing vehicle trade-in programs. Special zones for vehicle trade-ins should be established at venues related to the NEV consumption season.

    Marketable NEV models need to be further introduced to better cater to the diverse needs of county and township residents.

    Localities should also develop innovative consumption scenarios and speed up the construction of relevant facilities, such as NEV parking lots, charging stations and after-sales service centers, according to the ministry.

    China’s NEV production surged 45.2 percent year on year to nearly 5.7 million units in the first five months of 2025, with sales up by 44 percent year on year to 5.61 million units.

    MIL OSI China News –

    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese premier meets Ecuadorian president

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

    BEIJING, June 24 — Chinese Premier Li Qiang met with Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa, who is in China to attend the 2025 Summer Davos forum, in Beijing on Tuesday.

    Li said that since the establishment of diplomatic relations 45 years ago, China-Ecuador relations had maintained a good development momentum, with political mutual trust consolidated, practical cooperation achieving fruitful results, and bilateral friendship deepened.

    He said China stands ready to work with Ecuador to carry forward the traditional friendship, expand mutually beneficial cooperation, promote the continuous deepening of the China-Ecuador comprehensive strategic partnership, and add more impetus to the modernization drive of both sides.

    China is willing to enhance the docking of development strategies with Ecuador, strengthen cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative, expand the scale of bilateral trade, and deepen cooperation on clean energy, infrastructure, and finance, Li said.

    Noting that China is glad to see more high-quality products from Ecuador exported to China, he said China welcomed Ecuador to make good use of promotion platforms such as the China International Import Expo (CIIE), and called on both sides to enhance exchanges and cooperation in fields such as education, culture and youth, and facilitate personnel exchanges.

    China stands ready to enhance communication and coordination with Ecuador in multilateral mechanisms such as the United Nations, practice true multilateralism, and make positive contributions to maintaining world peace and development and promoting the building of a community with a shared future for humanity, Li added.

    Noting that China is Ecuador’s second-largest trading partner, Noboa said the mutually beneficial cooperation between the two sides has been fruitful and has effectively enhanced the well-being of the Ecuadorian people.

    Ecuador is willing to have dialogues in various fields with China, deepen the friendship between the two countries, promote cooperation on trade, finance, agriculture, clean energy, infrastructure, and education, enhance people-to-people and cultural exchanges, and jointly address common challenges, Noboa said.

    MIL OSI China News –

    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Video: AMNC25 Chief Economists Briefing

    Source: World Economic Forum (video statements)

    The global economic outlook has darkened considerably, according to the World Economic Forum’s latest survey of chief economists.

    Gain expert insights and actionable perspectives from leading chief economists on the outlook for global growth amid geopolitical uncertainty and technological disruption.

    Speakers:

    Paul Gruenwald, Global Chief Economist, S&P Global

    Santitarn Sathirathai, Adviser, Future Economy, Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI)

    Aparna Bharadwaj, Global Leader, Global Advantage Practice; Managing Director and Senior Partner, Boston Consulting Group

    Thomas Hale, Shanghai Correspondent, The Financial Times

    This is the full audio from a session at the AMNC25 in Tianjin, China on 24 June, 2025.

    Watch it here: https://www.weforum.org/meetings/annual-meeting-of-the-new-champions-2025/sessions/chief-economists-briefing-e127903824/

    Catch up on all the action from AMNC25 at wef.ch/amnc25 and across social media using the hashtag #AMNC25.

    Check out all our podcasts on wef.ch/podcasts (http://wef.ch/podcasts) : 

    YouTube: (https://www.youtube.com/@wef/podcasts) – https://www.youtube.com/@wef/podcasts

    Radio Davos (https://www.weforum.org/podcasts/radio-davos) – subscribe (https://pod.link/1504682164) : https://pod.link/1504682164

    Meet the Leader (https://www.weforum.org/podcasts/meet-the-leader) – subscribe (https://pod.link/1534915560) : https://pod.link/1534915560

    Agenda Dialogues (https://www.weforum.org/podcasts/agenda-dialogues) – subscribe (https://pod.link/1574956552) : https://pod.link/1574956552

    Join the World Economic Forum Podcast Club (https://www.facebook.com/groups/wefpodcastclub) : https://www.facebook.com/groups/wefpodcastclub

     

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JmciCRgCs7w

    MIL OSI Video –

    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Threatened whale species found in areas targeted by The Metals Company for deep sea mining, scientists warn

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    Exeter, UK – A scientific survey of two areas targeted for deep sea mining in the Pacific Ocean by The Metals Company has confirmed the presence of whales and dolphins, including sperm whales which are listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. The news comes as world governments are meeting in a few weeks at the International Seabed Authority (ISA), where the call for a moratorium on deep sea mining keeps growing.[1]

    The survey, published today in the scientific journal Frontiers in Marine Science, was conducted by researchers from the University of Exeter and Greenpeace Research Laboratories from Greenpeace International’s ship, Arctic Sunrise. Researchers studied two exploration blocks held by The Metals Company in the Pacific’s Clarion-Clipperton Zone, known as NORI-d and TOML-e.[2][3]

    Dr Kirsten Young, Lead Study Author, University of Exeter said: “We already knew that the Clarion-Clipperton Zone is home to at least 20 species of cetaceans, but we’ve now demonstrated their presence in two areas specifically earmarked for deep sea mining by The Metals Company.”

    Following President Trump’s approval of a deep sea mining Executive Order in April 2025, The Metals Company applied to the US government to give TMC unilateral permission to commercially mine the international seabed in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone. According to reports, this application covers the NORI-d area.[4] This move bypasses and undermines the International Seabed Authority, the UN regulator for deep sea mining, and has been met with strong criticism from governments around the world. Scientists have previously warned of “long lasting, irreversible” impacts of deep sea mining on the region.[5]

    Cetaceans are known to be impacted by noise pollution caused by humans, and could be impacted by the significant noise created by deep sea mining operations. These operations would also generate sediment plumes, which could further impact cetacean populations by disrupting deep ocean food systems.

    Dr Kirsten Young continued: “While more research is needed to build a complete picture of the impact of the noise and sediment plumes on cetaceans, it’s clear that deep sea mining operations will negatively impact ocean ecosystems in areas far out to sea where monitoring is particularly challenging.”

    The survey provides a 13-day snapshot of cetacean activity in these two deep sea mining exploration areas. Using hydrophones, the research team confirmed 74 acoustic detections of cetaceans. This included a sperm whale, Risso’s dolphins and common dolphins.

    Louisa Casson, Greenpeace International senior campaigner, said: “The confirmed presence of cetaceans, including threatened sperm whales, in areas that The Metals Company is targeting for deep sea mining is yet another clear warning that this dangerous industry must never be allowed to begin commercial operations. The only sensible course of action for governments at next month’s International Seabed Authority meeting is to prioritise agreeing on a global moratorium.”

    Calls for a moratorium on deep sea mining grew at the recent UN Ocean Conference, with four new countries joining the group supporting a moratorium, bringing the total to 37.[6] The UN Secretary General also issued a strong call to stop this dangerous industry. Momentum against deep sea mining will now be carried forward at the July ISA meetings. 

    ENDS 

    Photos and video are available in the Greenpeace Media Library. 

    Notes:

    [1 IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 

    [2] Threatened cetaceans in a potential deep seabed mining region, Clarion Clipperton Zone, Eastern Pacific 

    [3] This study in the Pacific is mirrored by another recent piece of research in the Arctic by Greenpeace Nordic and Greenpeace Germany. Researchers found cetaceans, including deep-diving and noise-sensitive sperm whales and northern bottlenose whales, in an area earmarked for future mining. If the Norwegian government proceeds with deep sea mining in the area, noise and pollution risk severe consequences. Greenpeace Nordic researchers are in the Arctic right now further documenting the presence of cetaceans in the area to expose the risks of deep sea mining and to champion the protection of the Arctic’s vulnerable marine life.

    [4] The Metals Company applies to mine seabed after Trump executive order 

    [5] Whale warning as clock ticks towards deep sea mining 

    [6] https://deep-sea-conservation.org/solutions/no-deep-sea-mining/

    Contact:

    Sol Gosetti, Media Coordinator for the Stop Deep Sea Mining campaign, Greenpeace International: [email protected], +34 64686 3330

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

    MIL OSI NGO –

    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China’s Ministry of Commerce: China opposes EU protectionist measures against Chinese enterprises /detailed version-1/

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, June 24 (Xinhua) — China firmly opposes the European Union’s (EU) protectionist measures that restrict Chinese enterprises and products from participating in major government procurement tenders for medical equipment, the Ministry of Commerce said on Tuesday.

    The announcement comes as the European Commission decided last Friday to restrict the participation of Chinese companies and products in public procurement tenders in the medical equipment sector, based on the EU’s International Procurement Instrument.

    The Commerce Ministry spokesman called on the EU to correct its mistaken approach and promised to take decisive measures to protect the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese enterprises.

    An investigation by China’s Ministry of Commerce in January found that the EU had consistently erected barriers against Chinese firms in areas such as government procurement and investment, a ministry spokesman said.

    Despite China’s consistent demonstration of goodwill and sincerity in bilateral dialogues, the EU continues to apply unilateral measures and erect new protectionist barricades, which not only harm Chinese enterprises but also seriously undermine fair competition, the department noted.

    As this year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and the EU, China is willing to, based on the broader interests of bilateral economic and trade relations, implement the important consensus reached by leaders of both sides, properly resolve trade frictions through dialogue and consultation, and stabilize the trust and expectations of Chinese and European enterprises in bilateral cooperation, the spokesperson concluded. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China hopes for speedy ceasefire between Israel and Iran – MFA /detailed version-1/

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, June 24 (Xinhua) — China pays close attention to the developments in the Middle East, does not want tensions to escalate again and hopes for an early ceasefire between Israel and Iran, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said at a regular press conference on Tuesday.

    The Chinese diplomat made the statement while commenting on US President Donald Trump’s announcement of a comprehensive ceasefire agreement between Israel and Iran.

    Facts have proven that military means cannot bring peace, and dialogue and negotiations are the right way to solve problems, he said.

    China calls on relevant parties to return to the correct path of political settlement as soon as possible. China is willing to work with the international community to make efforts to maintain peace and stability in the Middle East region, Guo Jiakun assured. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China to boost consumption with increased financial support

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, June 24 (Xinhua) — China on Tuesday released guidelines to increase financial support to effectively boost consumption.

    The document, jointly issued by six government bodies including the People’s Bank of China (PBOC, the central bank), outlines a series of measures aimed at key areas of consumption.

    The document calls for increased financial support for the consumption of both goods and services. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: U.S. International Transactions, 1st Quarter 2025 and Annual Update

    Source: US Bureau of Economic Analysis

    Current-Account Deficit Widened by 44.3 Percent in the First Quarter

    Current-Account Balance (Table 1 and Chart 1)

    The U.S. current-account deficit, which reflects the combined balances on trade in goods and services and income flows between U.S. residents and residents of other countries, widened by $138.2 billion, or 44.3 percent, to $450.2 billion in the first quarter of 2025, according to statistics released today by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis. The revised fourth-quarter deficit was $312.0 billion (table A).

    The first-quarter deficit was 6.0 percent of current-dollar gross domestic product, up from 4.2 percent in the fourth quarter.

    The $138.2 billion widening of the current-account deficit in the first quarter mostly reflected an expanded deficit on goods.

    Current-Account Transactions (tables 1–5 and chart 2)

    Exports of goods and services to, and income received from, foreign residents decreased $3.9 billion to $1.24 trillion in the first quarter. Imports of goods and services from, and income paid to, foreign residents increased $134.3 billion to $1.69 trillion.1

    Trade in goods (table 2)

    Exports of goods increased $21.1 billion to $539.0 billion, and imports of goods increased $158.2 billion to $1.00 trillion. The increase in exports was led by capital goods, mainly civilian aircraft and computer accessories, peripherals, and parts. The increase in imports was led by nonmonetary gold and consumer goods, mostly medicinal, dental, and pharmaceutical products (see “Additional Information” for a definition of nonmonetary gold under “Goods”).

    Trade in services (table 3)

    Exports of services decreased $4.4 billion to $293.2 billion, reflecting decreases in government goods and services, mostly military units and agencies, in travel, mostly “other personal travel,” and in “other business services,” mainly professional and management consulting services. These decreases were partly offset by an increase in maintenance and repair services. Imports of services decreased $1.8 billion to $217.8 billion, reflecting a decrease in charges for the use of intellectual property, mostly licenses for the use of outcomes of research and development.

    Primary income (table 4)

    Receipts of primary income decreased $22.9 billion to $355.1 billion, and payments of primary income decreased $13.7 billion to $362.7 billion. The decreases in both receipts and payments reflected a decrease in direct investment income, mostly earnings.

    Secondary income (table 5)

    Receipts of secondary income increased $2.3 billion to $49.6 billion, reflecting an increase in private transfers, primarily fines and penalties. Payments of secondary income decreased $8.4 billion to $101.5 billion, reflecting a decrease in general government transfers, primarily international cooperation.

    Capital-Account Transactions (table 1)

    Capital-transfer receipts decreased $2.4 billion to $8.9 billion in the first quarter. The decrease reflected first-quarter receipts from foreign insurance companies for losses resulting from wildfires in Southern California that were lower than fourth-quarter receipts for losses resulting from Hurricane Milton. For information on transactions associated with hurricanes and other disasters, see “How do losses recovered from foreign insurance companies following natural or man-made disasters affect foreign transactions, the current account balance, and net lending or net borrowing?”. Capital-transfer payments increased $0.5 billion to $2.0 billion.

    Financial-Account Transactions (tables 1, 6, 7, and 8 and chart 3)

    Net financial-account transactions were −$299.5 billion in the first quarter, reflecting net U.S. borrowing from foreign residents.

    Financial assets (tables 1, 6, 7, and 8)

    First-quarter transactions increased U.S. residents’ foreign financial assets by $524.9 billion. Transactions increased “other investment assets,” mostly short-term loans, by $328.2 billion; portfolio investment assets, mostly debt securities, by $128.4 billion; direct investment assets, mostly equity, by $66.8 billion; and reserve assets by $1.5 billion.

    Liabilities (tables 1, 6, 7, and 8)

    First-quarter transactions increased U.S. liabilities to foreign residents by $843.7 billion. Transactions increased portfolio investment liabilities, mostly long-term debt securities, by $429.9 billion; “other investment liabilities,” mainly short-term deposits and loans, by $358.9 billion; and direct investment liabilities, mostly equity, by $54.9 billion.

    Financial derivatives (table 1)

    Net transactions in financial derivatives were $19.3 billion in the first quarter, reflecting net U.S. lending to foreign residents.

      

    Table A. Updates to Fourth-Quarter 2024 International Transactions Accounts Balances

    [Billions of dollars, seasonally adjusted]
      Preliminary estimates Revised estimates
    Current-account balance –303.9 −312.0
        Goods balance −326.1 −328.9
        Services balance 76.1 78.0
        Primary income balance 2.3 1.6
        Secondary income balance −56.2 −62.6
    Net financial-account transactions −385.3 −350.8
    U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis

    Annual Update of the U.S. International Transactions Accounts

    The statistics in this release reflect the annual update of the U.S. International Transactions Accounts. With this update, BEA has incorporated newly available and revised source data and recalculated seasonal and trading-day adjustments beginning with 2018. This annual update also reflects the incorporation of (1) BEA’s 2022 Benchmark Survey of Transactions in Selected Services and Intellectual Property With Foreign Persons, (2) a new balance of payments adjustment to exports of goods to redistribute estimates for late receipts for Canada from “other goods” to detailed commodities, (3) a new method for estimating other investment assets and other investment liabilities transactions by maturity, and (4) new statistics for transactions, income, and positions related to a repurchase agreement facility for foreign and international monetary authorities. A summary of the revisions to high-level aggregates is shown in table 9.

    Table B. Newly Available and Revised Source Data: Key Providers and Years Affected

    Agency Data Years affected
    U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis Quarterly and benchmark international trade in services surveys 2018–2024
    Annual and quarterly direct investment surveys 2022–2024
    U.S. Census Bureau Revised source data for international trade in goods 2022–2024
    U.S. Department of the Treasury Quarterly and monthly portfolio and other investment surveys 2022–2024
    Benchmark and quarterly portfolio investment surveys 2023–2024
    U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis

    More information on the annual update is available in “Preview of the 2025 Annual Update of the International Economic Accounts” in the Survey of Current Business. Additional information will be provided in the Survey in July 2025. U.S. International Economic Accounts: Concepts and Methods will be updated in September 2025 accordingly.

    For resources, definitions, and more, visit “Additional Information.”

    Next release: September 23, 2025, at 8:30 a.m. EDT
    U.S. International Transactions, 2nd Quarter 2025

    1 U.S. international transactions are presented in current dollars in accordance with international statistical presentation guidelines. For a comparison of current-dollar, or nominal, and inflation-adjusted, or real, measures of international transactions, see “SECTION 4 – FOREIGN TRANSACTIONS” of the National Income and Product Accounts.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: U.S. International Transactions, 1st Quarter 2025 and Annual Update

    Source: US Bureau of Economic Analysis

    Current-Account Deficit Widened by 44.3 Percent in the First Quarter

    Current-Account Balance (Table 1 and Chart 1)

    The U.S. current-account deficit, which reflects the combined balances on trade in goods and services and income flows between U.S. residents and residents of other countries, widened by $138.2 billion, or 44.3 percent, to $450.2 billion in the first quarter of 2025, according to statistics released today by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis. The revised fourth-quarter deficit was $312.0 billion (table A).

    The first-quarter deficit was 6.0 percent of current-dollar gross domestic product, up from 4.2 percent in the fourth quarter.

    The $138.2 billion widening of the current-account deficit in the first quarter mostly reflected an expanded deficit on goods.

    Current-Account Transactions (tables 1–5 and chart 2)

    Exports of goods and services to, and income received from, foreign residents decreased $3.9 billion to $1.24 trillion in the first quarter. Imports of goods and services from, and income paid to, foreign residents increased $134.3 billion to $1.69 trillion.1

    Trade in goods (table 2)

    Exports of goods increased $21.1 billion to $539.0 billion, and imports of goods increased $158.2 billion to $1.00 trillion. The increase in exports was led by capital goods, mainly civilian aircraft and computer accessories, peripherals, and parts. The increase in imports was led by nonmonetary gold and consumer goods, mostly medicinal, dental, and pharmaceutical products (see “Additional Information” for a definition of nonmonetary gold under “Goods”).

    Trade in services (table 3)

    Exports of services decreased $4.4 billion to $293.2 billion, reflecting decreases in government goods and services, mostly military units and agencies, in travel, mostly “other personal travel,” and in “other business services,” mainly professional and management consulting services. These decreases were partly offset by an increase in maintenance and repair services. Imports of services decreased $1.8 billion to $217.8 billion, reflecting a decrease in charges for the use of intellectual property, mostly licenses for the use of outcomes of research and development.

    Primary income (table 4)

    Receipts of primary income decreased $22.9 billion to $355.1 billion, and payments of primary income decreased $13.7 billion to $362.7 billion. The decreases in both receipts and payments reflected a decrease in direct investment income, mostly earnings.

    Secondary income (table 5)

    Receipts of secondary income increased $2.3 billion to $49.6 billion, reflecting an increase in private transfers, primarily fines and penalties. Payments of secondary income decreased $8.4 billion to $101.5 billion, reflecting a decrease in general government transfers, primarily international cooperation.

    Capital-Account Transactions (table 1)

    Capital-transfer receipts decreased $2.4 billion to $8.9 billion in the first quarter. The decrease reflected first-quarter receipts from foreign insurance companies for losses resulting from wildfires in Southern California that were lower than fourth-quarter receipts for losses resulting from Hurricane Milton. For information on transactions associated with hurricanes and other disasters, see “How do losses recovered from foreign insurance companies following natural or man-made disasters affect foreign transactions, the current account balance, and net lending or net borrowing?”. Capital-transfer payments increased $0.5 billion to $2.0 billion.

    Financial-Account Transactions (tables 1, 6, 7, and 8 and chart 3)

    Net financial-account transactions were −$299.5 billion in the first quarter, reflecting net U.S. borrowing from foreign residents.

    Financial assets (tables 1, 6, 7, and 8)

    First-quarter transactions increased U.S. residents’ foreign financial assets by $524.9 billion. Transactions increased “other investment assets,” mostly short-term loans, by $328.2 billion; portfolio investment assets, mostly debt securities, by $128.4 billion; direct investment assets, mostly equity, by $66.8 billion; and reserve assets by $1.5 billion.

    Liabilities (tables 1, 6, 7, and 8)

    First-quarter transactions increased U.S. liabilities to foreign residents by $843.7 billion. Transactions increased portfolio investment liabilities, mostly long-term debt securities, by $429.9 billion; “other investment liabilities,” mainly short-term deposits and loans, by $358.9 billion; and direct investment liabilities, mostly equity, by $54.9 billion.

    Financial derivatives (table 1)

    Net transactions in financial derivatives were $19.3 billion in the first quarter, reflecting net U.S. lending to foreign residents.

      

    Table A. Updates to Fourth-Quarter 2024 International Transactions Accounts Balances

    [Billions of dollars, seasonally adjusted]
      Preliminary estimates Revised estimates
    Current-account balance –303.9 −312.0
        Goods balance −326.1 −328.9
        Services balance 76.1 78.0
        Primary income balance 2.3 1.6
        Secondary income balance −56.2 −62.6
    Net financial-account transactions −385.3 −350.8
    U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis

    Annual Update of the U.S. International Transactions Accounts

    The statistics in this release reflect the annual update of the U.S. International Transactions Accounts. With this update, BEA has incorporated newly available and revised source data and recalculated seasonal and trading-day adjustments beginning with 2018. This annual update also reflects the incorporation of (1) BEA’s 2022 Benchmark Survey of Transactions in Selected Services and Intellectual Property With Foreign Persons, (2) a new balance of payments adjustment to exports of goods to redistribute estimates for late receipts for Canada from “other goods” to detailed commodities, (3) a new method for estimating other investment assets and other investment liabilities transactions by maturity, and (4) new statistics for transactions, income, and positions related to a repurchase agreement facility for foreign and international monetary authorities. A summary of the revisions to high-level aggregates is shown in table 9.

    Table B. Newly Available and Revised Source Data: Key Providers and Years Affected

    Agency Data Years affected
    U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis Quarterly and benchmark international trade in services surveys 2018–2024
    Annual and quarterly direct investment surveys 2022–2024
    U.S. Census Bureau Revised source data for international trade in goods 2022–2024
    U.S. Department of the Treasury Quarterly and monthly portfolio and other investment surveys 2022–2024
    Benchmark and quarterly portfolio investment surveys 2023–2024
    U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis

    More information on the annual update is available in “Preview of the 2025 Annual Update of the International Economic Accounts” in the Survey of Current Business. Additional information will be provided in the Survey in July 2025. U.S. International Economic Accounts: Concepts and Methods will be updated in September 2025 accordingly.

    For resources, definitions, and more, visit “Additional Information.”

    Next release: September 23, 2025, at 8:30 a.m. EDT
    U.S. International Transactions, 2nd Quarter 2025

    1 U.S. international transactions are presented in current dollars in accordance with international statistical presentation guidelines. For a comparison of current-dollar, or nominal, and inflation-adjusted, or real, measures of international transactions, see “SECTION 4 – FOREIGN TRANSACTIONS” of the National Income and Product Accounts.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    June 25, 2025

  • South Korea special prosecutor seeks arrest warrant for ex-President Yoon

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    South Korea’s special prosecutor asked a court on Tuesday to issue an arrest warrant for former President Yoon Suk Yeol, an investigator said, as a probe intensified over the ousted leader’s botched bid to impose martial law.

    Yoon, who is already facing a criminal trial on insurrection charges for leading the martial law declaration, was arrested in January after resisting authorities trying to take him into custody, but was released after 52 days on technical grounds.

    The martial law attempt shocked a country that had prided itself on being a thriving democracy after overcoming military dictatorship in the 1980s and triggered a snap presidential election to pick Yoon’s successor amid bitter political infighting.

    The new warrant is on a charge of obstruction, a senior member of the special prosecutor’s team of investigators said.

    Yoon had refused to respond to summons for questioning as required under criminal procedures and investigators would “not get dragged around” by him, Park Ji-young, a deputy to the special prosecutor, told a televised briefing on YTN TV.

    Lawyers representing Yoon said in a statement they had not been served a proper summons after the special prosecutor was appointed and that the former president would respond once it was served in a legal manner. Yoon had been under investigation by the police and the state prosecutors’ office on a number of charges stemming from the failed attempt in December to impose military rule.

    In January, Yoon initially resisted an attempt by investigators trying to execute a court warrant for his arrest, holed up in the presidential residence while his security service led by officials loyal to him barricaded the gates.

    The special prosecutor was appointed just days after liberal President Lee Jae-myung took office on June 4 after winning the snap election called after Yoon’s ouster in April and has launched a team of more than 200 prosecutors and investigators to take over ongoing investigations against Yoon.

    Yoon is fighting the charges against him that include masterminding insurrection, which is punishable by death or life in prison, claiming he had declared martial law on December 3 to sound the alarm over the threat to democracy posed by the then-opposition Democratic Party.

    (Reuters)

    June 25, 2025

  • 10 years of AMRUT: A decade of urban transformation in India

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India marks a significant milestone as the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) completes 10 years since its launch on June 25, 2015. Introduced as a transformative initiative to improve the quality of life in urban areas, AMRUT has focused on delivering basic infrastructure and services—especially water supply, sewerage, urban mobility, and green spaces—to citizens across 500 cities and towns.

    Over the past decade, AMRUT has redefined India’s urban development landscape. The Mission prioritized inclusive planning, targeting the urban poor with a strong focus on providing universal access to tap water and sewer connections. A notable feature was the allocation of up to 2.5% of project costs towards developing parks with amenities for children and the elderly, thereby enhancing the livability of cities.

    A total of ₹77,640 crore worth of State Annual Action Plans (SAAPs) have been approved under AMRUT, with ₹35,990 crore committed as Central Assistance. Projects worth ₹79,401 crore have already been completed, and ₹72,656 crore has been expended. The Mission’s core areas—water supply, sewerage, septage management, stormwater drainage, non-motorized urban transport, and the development of green spaces—have brought about tangible change in urban India.

    In the area of water supply, the Mission has facilitated the augmentation of water systems, treatment plants, universal metering, and the rejuvenation of water bodies. Special provisions have been made for difficult areas, including hilly and coastal regions. Similarly, sewerage projects have focused on underground networks, rehabilitation of old systems, and reuse of treated wastewater. Faecal sludge management and the mechanical cleaning of septic tanks and sewers have also been addressed to improve sanitation outcomes.

    Stormwater drainage projects have reduced urban flooding, while the urban transport component supported the development of footpaths, ferry services, cycle tracks, and multi-level parking. Capacity-building programs have strengthened both institutional and individual capabilities within Urban Local Bodies (ULBs), enabling better governance and service delivery.

    Building on the foundation of AMRUT, the government launched AMRUT 2.0 on October 1, 2021. The expanded version covers all ULBs across the country and aims to ensure water security and self-reliance. It seeks universal coverage of sewerage and septage management in the original AMRUT cities, with a total indicative outlay of ₹2.99 lakh crore, including a Central share of ₹76,760 crore over five years.

    Under AMRUT 2.0, 3,568 water supply projects worth ₹1,14,220.62 crore have been approved, including 181 lakh new tap connections and 10,647 MLD of water treatment capacity. Additionally, 1,487 projects have been equipped with SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) technology for efficient monitoring.

    In the sewerage and septage sector, 592 projects worth ₹67,607.67 crore have been approved, adding over 67.11 lakh new sewer connections and 6,739 MLD of sewage treatment capacity. Innovation has also been a key pillar, with the Technology Sub-Mission under AMRUT 2.0 shortlisting 120 start-ups for pilot projects across 82 cities.

    Together, AMRUT and AMRUT 2.0 have sanctioned 14,828 projects worth ₹2,73,649 crore, of which works worth ₹1,12,368 crore have been physically completed. The total Central Assistance allocated is ₹1,02,786 crore, with ₹47,625 crore already disbursed. Over 2.03 crore households have been provided with tap water connections and 1.5 crore with sewerage connections. Additionally, 544 water bodies covering 9,511 acres have been rejuvenated.

    Innovative initiatives like ‘AMRUT Mitra’ have engaged over 10,000 women from Self-Help Groups in monitoring and awareness activities. The ‘Drink from Tap’ initiative has seen 381 projects worth ₹23,490 crore sanctioned, likely to benefit 8 lakh households. More than 90,000 individuals—including contractors, plant operators, plumbers, youth, and officials—have been trained to support capacity-building across states.

    As AMRUT completes a decade, it represents a paradigm shift in India’s urban development narrative—one that combines infrastructure growth with inclusivity, sustainability, and improved quality of life. With its strong foundation and the launch of AMRUT 2.0, the Mission continues to pave the way for resilient, future-ready cities that cater to the needs of all citizens.

    June 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: FSB report confirms dire consequences of Protocol

    Source: Traditional Unionist Voice – Northern Ireland

    Statement from TUV leader Jim Allister:-

    “Today’s FSB report, “Windsor Framework Realities” confirms from an objective business standpoint the worsening economic consequences of the Irish Sea border – the very border some stooped to lies to try and pretend was gone!

    “The findings that 58% of those trading from GB to NI report impeding frictions and 34% of firms having stopped trading between GB and NI, confirms how much by design the Protocol is reorientating our economy away from its natural and essential GB alignment. When 78% of NI businesses responding to the FSB survey declare negative impacts from the Protocol, then if government cared anything for the integrity of the UK and its internal market, it would act.

    “When taken with the NISRA figures on trade diversion, it is clear we are long past the point when HMG should be acting under Article 16 of the Protocol. But, sadly, this government is so beholden to the EU that it will readily sacrifice NI business in favour of placating Brussels.

    “Things need not be as they are. There is a ready made solution in ‘mutual enforcement’, but Starmer and co care only about edging the whole UK back under Brussels’ control.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    June 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: OptimizeRx Corporation Appoints CEO Steve Silvestro to Board of Directors

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WALTHAM, Mass., June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — OptimizeRx Corp. (the “Company”) (Nasdaq: OPRX), a leading provider of healthcare technology solutions helping life sciences companies reach and engage healthcare professionals (HCPs) and patients, today announced the appointment of Steve Silvestro, currently serving as the Company’s Chief Executive Officer, to its Board of Directors, effective as of June 20, 2025.

    Mr. Silvestro joined the Company in 2019 and has been the Company’s CEO since March 2025, after serving as the interim CEO from January 2025. The appointment of Mr. Silvestro, with his knowledge of the Company and expertise in the industry, will enhance overall leadership and greatly contribute to the Company’s ability to execute its value creation plans and support key initiatives to deliver on its customer and shareholder roadmap.

    “The Board of Directors has been impressed with Steve’s leadership and the meaningful progress the Company has made since he stepped into the CEO role,” said Lynn Vos, Chairperson of OptimizeRx’s Board of Directors. “The initiatives he and the leadership team have executed have significantly strengthened OptimizeRx’s position with customers and laid a solid foundation for sustained long-term shareholder value creation. We’re pleased to welcome Steve to the Board and look forward to his continued contributions as we work together to refine and advance the Company’s strategic direction.”

    “It’s truly an honor to have the trust of such an experienced Board and be able to lead a team that is focused on operational excellence and customer delight,” added Steve Silvestro. “I am excited with the direction OptimizeRx is headed and believe we’re firmly positioned for a strong 2025 and are building a solid foundation for continued growth and execution in 2026 and beyond. I’m excited to join the Company’s Board and look forward to continuing to partner with our team, strategic partners, and customers as we continue to drive the Company’s growth. Our focus will remain on delivering exceptional customer experiences, deepening our value proposition with pharmaceutical partners, accelerating our shift toward a recurring revenue model, and progressing toward Rule of 40 performance.”

    About Stephen L. Silvestro

    Steve Silvestro was appointed Chief Executive Officer in March 2025. He joined the Company as Chief Commercial Officer in April 2019 and has since served as President from October 2023 until his appointment as interim CEO in January 2025. Prior to joining the Company, Mr. Silvestro was with CCH® Tagetik, a Wolters Kluwer company that provides corporate performance management software solutions for planning, consolidation and reporting, as its Vice President and General Manager from January 2018 until April 2019. From April 2017 to January 2018, Mr. Silvestro was with Prognos Health, Inc., a healthcare data and analytics company, as its Chief Commercial Officer and, before that, from September 2007 to April 2017, he was with Decision Resources Group, a multi-national corporation that provides high value global data solutions, analytics and consulting services to pharmaceutical, biotech, medical device, healthcare provider and payer, and managed care companies, in various capacities with him last serving as Executive Vice President, Head of Global Sales.

    About OptimizeRx

    OptimizeRx is a leading healthcare technology company that’s redefining how life science brands connect with patients and healthcare providers. Our platform combines innovative AI-driven tools like the Dynamic Audience Activation Platform (DAAP) and Micro-Neighborhood Targeting (MNT) to deliver timely, relevant, and hyper-local engagement. By bridging the gap between HCP and DTC strategies, we empower brands to create synchronized marketing solutions that drive faster treatment decisions and improved patient outcomes.

    Our commitment to privacy-safe, patient-centric technology ensures that every interaction is designed to make a meaningful impact, delivering life-changing therapies to the right patients at the right time. Headquartered in Waltham, Massachusetts, OptimizeRx partners with some of the world’s leading pharmaceutical and life sciences companies to transform the healthcare landscape and create a healthier future for all.

    Important Cautions Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as “anticipates”, “believes”, “estimates”, “expects”, “forecasts”, “intends”, “plans”, “projects”, “targets”, “designed”, “could”, “may”, “should”, “will” or other similar words and expressions are intended to identify these forward-looking statements. All statements in this press release that reflect the Company’s expectations, assumptions, projections, beliefs or opinions about the future, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements relating to OptimizeRx’s commitment to appointing directors who have perspectives, insights, experiences, and skills that expand the depth and breadth of the Board, executing the Company’s value creation plans, supporting key initiatives, advancing the Company’s strategic direction, delivering exceptional customer experiences, deepening the Company’s value proposition with pharmaceutical partners, accelerating the Company’s shift towards a recurring revenue model, progressing towards a Rule of 40 performance, and other statements relating to future performance, plans, and expectations. Because such statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based upon the Company’s current expectations and involve assumptions regarding the Company’s business, the economy, and other future conditions that may never materialize or may prove to be incorrect. Forward-looking statements are inherently subject to risks and uncertainties, some of which cannot be predicted, or quantified. Actual results and the timing of events could differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements as a result of various risks and uncertainties including, but not limited to, the Company’s ability to identify and appoint a new independent director, the effect of government regulation, seasonal trends, dependence on a concentrated group of customers, cybersecurity incidents that could disrupt operations, the ability to keep pace with growing and evolving technology, the ability to maintain contracts with electronic prescription platforms and electronic health records networks, competition, and other factors discussed in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, and in other filings the Company has made and may make with the SEC in the future. One should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date on which they were made. The Company undertakes no obligation to update such statements to reflect events that occur or circumstances that exist after the date on which they were made, except as may be required by law.

    OptimizeRx Contact 

    Andy D’Silva, SVP Corporate Finance   
    adsilva@optimizerx.com
      
    Investor Relations Contact
    Steven Halper
    LifeSci Advisors, LLC
    shalper@lifesciadvisors.com

    The MIL Network –

    June 24, 2025
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