NewzIntel.com

Category: Politics

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Since the beginning of this year, Chinese-Russian border trade in Manzhouli has brought in 1 million yuan in revenue for local residents.

    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, May 13 (Xinhua) — Since the beginning of this year, Chinese-Russian border trade in the city of Manzhouli has brought in 1 million yuan in revenue for local residents, the city’s people’s government said on Thursday.

    Manzhouli City, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, is located on the border with Russia’s Zabaikalsky Krai. It has a road and railway checkpoint. The local China-Russia Mutual Trade Zone is an important platform for expanding the city’s openness to the outside world. The trading platform in the zone was put into operation in 2016.

    According to current regulations, the value of tax-free goods purchased in the designated area must not exceed 8,000 yuan per person per day. In addition to meeting their own needs, local residents can also resell these goods on the domestic market.

    Local residents are reportedly actively expanding channels for importing goods from Russia and reselling them in China. The most popular Russian goods are consumer goods, handicrafts and agricultural products, including chumiza, flax seeds, sunflower seeds, etc. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Xi Jinping congratulates E. Albanese on re-election as Australian Prime Minister

    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, May 13 (Xinhua) — Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday congratulated Anthony Albanese on his re-election as Australian prime minister.

    Xi Jinping said that over the past three years, he has met with Prime Minister Eduardo Albanese and held in-depth discussions with him on strategic, comprehensive and direction-setting issues concerning the development of China-Australia relations.

    These discussions resulted in an important consensus that provided strategic guidance for improving and developing bilateral ties, he added.

    Strengthening cooperation between China and Australia is of great significance to achieving common development and strengthening world peace and stability, Xi said.

    The Chinese President also expressed his willingness to cooperate with E. Albanese to promote the sustainable development of the China-Australia comprehensive strategic partnership, bringing great benefits to the peoples of both countries.

    On the same day, Chinese Premier Li Qiang also sent a congratulatory message to E. Albanese, noting that China stands ready to work with the new Australian government to advance a more mature, stable and fruitful China-Australia comprehensive strategic partnership. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: IMF Reaches Staff-Level Agreement with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) on the First Review under the Extended Credit Facility (ECF)

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    May 13, 2025

    End-of-Mission press releases include statements of IMF staff teams that convey preliminary findings after a visit to a country. The views expressed in this statement are those of the IMF staff and do not necessarily represent the views of the IMF’s Executive Board. Based on the preliminary findings of this mission, staff will prepare a report that, subject to management approval, will be presented to the IMF’s Executive Board for discussion and decision.

    • The economy has been resilient, with economic growth reaching 6.5 percent in 2024, and projected to remain above 5 percent in 2025.
    • The escalation of the armed conflict in the eastern part of the country has placed significant strain on the budget, in addition to its severe humanitarian and social impact.
    • Credible revenue-enhancing measures, streamlining of non-priority spending, and accelerated reforms are critical to preserving the objectives of the ECF-supported program, which has been recalibrated to adapt to the new realities following the intensification of the conflict.

    Washington, DC: A staff team from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), led by Calixte Ahokpossi, IMF Mission Chief for the DRC, visited Kinshasa from April 30 to May 13, to hold discussions on the first review of the DRC’s economic and financial program supported by the IMF under the Extended Credit Facility (ECF).

    At the end of the discussions, Mr. Ahokpossi issued the following statement:

    “The DRC authorities and the IMF team have reached a staff-level agreement on the first review of the DRC’s three-year economic and financial program supported by the IMF under the ECF, subject to approval by IMF management and the Executive Board. Consideration by the IMF Executive Board is tentatively scheduled for end-June 2025.

    “Since the last quarter of 2024, the DRC has faced an escalation of the armed conflict in its eastern part. The intensification of hostilities has claimed thousands of lives and caused severe humanitarian, social, and economic harm, particularly in the occupied provinces of North Kivu and South Kivu.

    “Economic activity remained resilient, with robust GDP growth of 6.5 percent in 2024. Growth is projected to remain above 5 percent in 2025, driven by continued dynamism in the extractive sector. External stability has strengthened, underpinned by ongoing international reserves accumulation and a narrowing current account deficit—though still below the recommended adequacy level for import coverage. The resulting exchange rate stability observed since mid-2024, coupled with appropriately tight monetary policy, has helped ease inflationary pressures. Year-on-year inflation has returned to single-digit levels in April 2025, for the first time since July 2022.

    “On the fiscal side, the conflict escalation has placed significant strain on public finances. Spending overruns—driven by sharp increases in exceptional security spending, public investment, and transfers to provinces and public entities—were only partially offset by strong revenue collection. As a result, the domestic fiscal deficit exceeded its programmed ceiling at end-2024. For 2025, the closure of revenue collection offices in the occupied eastern regions, combined with the exemption of basic food products from VAT and customs duties to ease the cost of living, have led to a revenue shortfall. Budgetary strains have also intensified, as exceptional security spending remained elevated through end-April of 2025, and salaries for military and police were doubled since March to bolster troops’ morale.

    “The government has reaffirmed its commitment to the objectives of ECF-supported program, which has been recalibrated to reflect the new realities following the intensification of the conflict. This will help safeguard fiscal sustainability while enabling adequate fiscal space for pressing security and humanitarian needs without crowding out priority social and investment spending, especially in light of the suspension of a significant share of external humanitarian assistance. Offsetting revenue-enhancing measures and streamlining of non-priority spending—including a reduction in operating expenses of the government—have been identified and incorporated, along with expected additional concessional financing from the World Bank, into a draft 2025 supplementary budget Law to be submitted to Parliament. Additional concessional financing from development partners would be welcome.

    “Progress on the structural reform agenda is encouraging. Reforms focused on modernizing public financial management are advancing: the legal framework was strengthened to induce stricter adherence to the expenditure chain, though its implementation needs to be tightened. The authorities are making progress in meeting key milestones to operationalize the Treasury, gradually decentralizing spending authorization to line ministries, establishing a treasury single account, and transitioning to a resource-based fiscal framework aimed at shielding public spending from the volatility of extractive revenues. In addition, domestic revenue-enhancing efforts should be stepped up, including by expediting the roll-out of the standardized VAT billing system, adopting an action plan to increase domestic revenue mobilization, streamlining inefficient tax exemptions, curbing tax evasion through tighter oversight of mineral exports, and further intensifying the fight against customs fraud at the borders. Stronger spending efficiency, including through better public investment management and stricter control of payroll abuses, remains critical, along with measures in the area of governance and transparency—including in the extractive sector— to combat corruption, and improve the business environment.

    “Finally, the IMF staff urged the authorities to continue laying the groundwork for the timely implementation of the reform measures (RM) underpinning the Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF)–supported program. These RMs, coming due starting at the next review, are expected to help strengthen the DRC’s resilience to climate shocks while consolidating its role as a “solution country” in the global transition to a low-carbon economy.

    “The IMF staff would like to express its gratitude to the authorities, senior officials, technical staff, and various stakeholders—including representatives of the civil society, the private sector, and development partners—for their hospitality, continued support, and constructive discussions.”

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Tatiana Mossot

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

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/05/13/pr25140-democratic-republic-of-congo-imf-reaches-sla-with-drc-on-the-1st-review-under-ecf

    MIL OSI

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: Denmark: Staff Concluding Statement of the 2025 Article IV Mission

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    May 13, 2025

    A Concluding Statement describes the preliminary findings of IMF staff at the end of an official staff visit (or ‘mission’), in most cases to a member country. Missions are undertaken as part of regular (usually annual) consultations under Article IV of the IMF’s Articles of Agreement, in the context of a request to use IMF resources (borrow from the IMF), as part of discussions of staff monitored programs, or as part of other staff monitoring of economic developments.

    The authorities have consented to the publication of this statement. The views expressed in this statement are those of the IMF staff and do not necessarily represent the views of the IMF’s Executive Board. Based on the preliminary findings of this mission, staff will prepare a report that, subject to management approval, will be presented to the IMF Executive Board for discussion and decision.

    Copenhagen, Denmark:

    Denmark’s strong growth has continued, primarily driven by pharmaceutical exports, while domestic demand has remained relatively sluggish. Staff expects output growth to moderate in the near term as external demand weakens. Direct impacts from U.S. tariffs are expected to be limited, but heightened trade tensions and trade policy uncertainty pose risks to the outlook. Denmark’s robust institutions, competitive and relatively diversified economic structure, strong fiscal position, and highly educated workforce all reinforce its resilience to external shocks. In this context, the policy priorities are as follows.

    • Uphold fiscal sustainability amid rising defense and aging-related expenditures.
    • Ensure financial stability by vigilantly monitoring risks, maintaining a prudent capital-based macroprudential policy setting, and tightening borrower-based measures.
    • Further intensify structural reforms to support high levels of income and sustain the welfare state.

    Economic outlook and risks

    1. Staff anticipates a gradual moderation in GDP growth. Output growth is projected to decline from 3.7 percent in 2024 to 2.9 percent in 2025 and further to 1.8 percent in 2026. Export growth, including pharmaceutical exports, is expected to slow, while the full reopening of the Tyra natural gas and oil field will provide a temporary uplift. The U.S. is a key trading partner; however, exports produced in Denmark passing through customs account for only 3 percent of total exports, limiting the direct impact of U.S. tariffs on the Danish economy. Domestic demand is expected to gradually strengthen, driven by increased public expenditures and a modest recovery in private consumption due to improved consumer purchasing power. Beyond 2026, medium-term growth is projected at around 1.5 percent, reflecting a maturing pharmaceutical sector and a declining working-age population. Labor market pressures have eased, with inflation anticipated to stay around 2 percent.
    2. Risks to growth are on the downside. External risks dominate the outlook. A reversal of globalization, including higher trade barriers and deepening geoeconomic fragmentation, would put the Danish economy at risk. Global uncertainty, including the intensification of regional conflicts, would dampen consumer and business confidence, weighing on domestic demand. Upside risks to growth include a faster-than-expected resolution of trade and geopolitical tensions, as well as stronger pharmaceutical exports.

    Maintaining fiscal sustainability amid rising defense and aging-related spending

    1. The fiscal surplus is expected to decline significantly. In February, the authorities announced a temporary rise in defense spending from 2¼ percent of GDP in 2024 to 3¼ percent in 2025 and 2026, returning to 2¼ percent by 2033. This increase adds to already planned personal income tax cuts and increased expenditures related to health, long-term care, and climate. As a result, staff projects the overall surplus to fall from 4½ percent of GDP in 2024 to 1¼ percent in 2025 and further to ½ percent of GDP in 2026. Although labor market pressures have eased, and fiscal multipliers for the planned measures are likely to be low, the resulting fiscal stimulus could be stronger than warranted by macroeconomic circumstances. Given these risks, the authorities should continue to exercise robust spending controls and save any revenue above budget forecasts for the remainder of 2025.
    2. Given Denmark’s robust fiscal position, the announced temporary increase in defense spending is manageable from a public finance sustainability perspective. Denmark has long anticipated rising spending pressures from an aging population and has successfully reduced its debt-to-GDP ratio to below 30 percent, down from nearly 50 percent a decade ago. Furthermore, a significantly higher-than-expected fiscal surplus in 2024 provides additional room to accommodate the increased defense spending. In the staff’s baseline scenario, the structural balance is expected to remain above the -1 percent of GDP floor over the medium term, consistent with Denmark’s fiscal rules and a stable debt-to-GDP ratio.
    3. However, significantly higher and more persistent increases in defense spending would require adjustment measures to ensure long-term fiscal sustainability. These adjustment measures should be growth-friendly while ensuring fairness to preserve the welfare state. Specifically:
    • While both expenditure and revenue measures should be explored, given the already high tax burden, priority should be given to spending measures. To this end, an in-depth assessment of expenditures should be conducted to identify low-priority or inefficient spending, as well as the opportunity to enhance public administration efficiency by leveraging digitalization and AI.
    • Structural reform programs should be vigorously pursued to boost labor supply and enhance productivity. In this context, further raising the retirement age in line with improved life expectancy is vital to ensure fiscal sustainability.
    • The structural balance floor of -1 percent of GDP under current national fiscal rules should be respected.

    Safeguarding financial stability

    1. Although systemic risks have been contained, heightened global risks warrant continued vigilance in monitoring financial sector risks. Banks are well-capitalized, with strong profitability, asset quality, and liquidity. To further strengthen the resilience of the financial system, the authorities should (i) ensure that banks maintain robust provisioning practices for credit risks, including a thorough examination of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) 9 modeling practices; (ii) complete the ongoing review of internal ratings-based models promptly, followed by supervisory actions based on the results, and implement the EU’s CRR III/CRD VI as planned; (iii) continue efforts to enhance resilience against cyberattacks; and (iv) ensure that the Financial Supervisory Authority is adequately staffed across a full range of skills and experiences to deliver its mandates.
    2. Capital-based macroprudential policy is broadly appropriate, but borrower-based measures should be tightened to address pockets of vulnerabilities. Given heightened global risks and the fragile commercial real estate (CRE) sector, the 2.5 percent countercyclical capital buffer (CCyB) and the 7 percent sector-specific systemic risk buffer, introduced in June 2024 to mitigate risks in the CRE sector, should remain in place for now. To address pockets of vulnerabilities in mortgages, the authorities should consider lowering the maximum loan-to-value ratio below the current 95 percent. In addition, incentives for bigger mortgages should be reduced by lowering the tax deductibility of mortgage interest expenses.
    3. The risks posed by non-bank financial institutions (NBFIs) should be closely monitored and assessed. The authorities have increased their focus on the NBFI sector in financial stability assessments. Given the considerable size and extensive interconnectedness of NBFIs within the financial system, as well as their susceptibility to market vulnerabilities, the authorities should continue strengthening the oversight framework for NBFIs. Key priorities include: (i) finalizing the supervisory order on the stress-testing framework for insurance and pension firms; (ii) developing a framework for systemic risk assessment that covers both banks and NBFIs; and (iii) ensuring that insurance and pension companies provide clear advice to clients about financial and longevity risks when selling non-guaranteed products.
    4. Addressing outstanding recommendations in the 2020 Financial Stability Assessment Program would further strengthen financial sector oversight and crisis management. The authorities have made significant strides in implementing numerous recommendations, especially in bank and insurance supervision and systemic liquidity. Important outstanding recommendations relate to systemic risk oversight and the governance of the resolution authorities.

    Pursuing structural reforms

    1. Structural reforms should be further intensified to sustain high levels of income, preserve fiscal space, and sustain the welfare state. Over the past several decades, Denmark has benefited significantly from globalization, including reduced trade barriers and expanded global value chains. However, these conditions may shift due to rising geopolitical and trade tensions. An aging population would also weigh on potential growth. All these concerns underscore the pressing need for Denmark to reinforce structural reform efforts. Specifically,
    • Strengthening policies to support entrepreneurship while harnessing the benefits of digitalization and Artificial Intelligence (AI). Staff welcomes the progress made in implementing a new entrepreneurship strategy launched in June 2024 to support start-ups and scale-ups. Denmark excels in digitalization and is well-positioned to leverage the benefits of AI. In this regard, the authorities should continue reviewing the legal and technical barriers to AI adoption while ensuring sound ethical principles. While Denmark’s flexicurity model is well-suited to facilitate possible labor reallocation across sectors, the implications of digital technologies on labor markets, including job displacement, should be closely monitored.
    • Continuing efforts to ensure a sufficient labor supply with the right skills, such as IT, health, and long-term care professionals. The authorities’ ongoing focus on labor market reforms is appropriate, including recent initiatives to (i) reform education curricula to equip students with digitalization skills; (ii) enhance vocational education and training; and (iii) make the active labor market policy framework more cost-effective while maintaining the strengths of the Danish flexicurity model. Other policy priorities include: (i) aligning the foreign worker recruitment schemes, especially the salary requirement limit and the positive list, with labor market needs; and (ii) ensuring the effectiveness of integration programs to help foreign workers and families successfully integrate into Danish society.
    1. A deeper EU single market could boost Denmark’s business dynamism and potential growth. The EU single market, Denmark’s most important trade area, is fragmented. Deepening EU integration will enhance the benefits of economies of scale and network effects, thus expanding the market for Danish businesses. Simultaneously, the authorities should make efforts to reduce domestic regulatory burdens on businesses (e.g., reporting requirements) while balancing the costs and benefits of these regulations. Denmark’s commitment to supporting multilateral and transparent trade policies that promote mutually beneficial cooperation in global trade, knowledge, and investment flows is commendable.
    2. Strengthening climate adaptation will support sustainable growth. Due to its coastal location and flat topography, Denmark is particularly vulnerable to sea level rise, storm surges, and coastal erosion, necessitating a well-designed long-term adaptation plan. The government is developing National Climate Adaptation Plan II, which focuses on enhanced coastal and groundwater protection, urban flood management, and the assessment of infrastructure needs, including financing responsibilities among central and local governments and the private sector. Simultaneously, the authorities are encouraged to reform the property insurance scheme (“Storm Surge Scheme”) to make insurance premiums risk-based.

    The mission thanks the authorities and private sector counterparts for their accommodative flexibility, warm hospitality, and candid and high-quality discussions. The IMF team is especially grateful to the Danmarks Nationalbank for its assistance with meeting and logistical arrangements.

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Boris Balabanov

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

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/05/12/mcs-denmark-staff-concluding-statement-of-the-2025-article-iv-mission

    MIL OSI

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Preserving Medicaid Funding for Vulnerable Populations – Closing a Health Care-Related Tax Loophole Proposed Rule

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services

    Section 1902(a)(2) of the Social Security Act (the Act) requires states to share the responsibility of financing the Medicaid program with the federal government, by providing at least 40 percent, depending on the state, of reimbursement for expenditures under the state plan. There are several ways states can finance the non-Federal share, including health care-related taxes under section 1903(w) of the Act. States have historically looked for ways to shift this responsibility more toward the federal government, and both Congress and CMS have sought to address these cases.[1]

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: CMS Releases Draft Guidance for the Third Cycle of Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program to Lower Drug Prices for American Patients

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services

    The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is issuing draft guidance for public comment on the third cycle of negotiations under the Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program (Negotiation Program). The draft guidance includes policies that will improve the transparency of the Negotiation Program, prioritize the selection of prescription drugs with high costs to the Medicare program, and minimize any negative impacts of the negotiated maximum fair price (MFP) on pharmaceutical innovation within the United States.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: What They’re Saying: Investing in NYC Transportation

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul recently signed new legislation as part of the FY26 Enacted Budget to make transformative investments in transportation infrastructure. In keeping with her record of leading on pro-transit investments, the FY26 Enacted Budget includes historic investments in New York City’s public transportation system with the biggest capital investment in New York’s transportation history by fully funding the Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s (MTA) $68.4 billion 2025-29 Capital Plan.

    State Senator Jeremy Cooney said, “Millions of New Yorkers rely on the MTA every day, both passengers downstate and manufacturers upstate who rely on MTA contracts to support their employees. This budget is forward thinking about the future needs of the MTA and I’m grateful for Governor Hochul’s leadership in making these investments possible to create the kind of modern system New Yorkers deserve.”

    State Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal said, “A functioning public transit system is essential to a functioning New York City and State. I applaud Governor Hochul, Majority Leader Stewart-Cousins, and Speaker Heastie for working together to fully fund the MTA’s $68.4 billion Capital Plan. Under this agreement we will be able to make more subway stations accessible, including many stations in my district, modernize the signal system to reduce wait times, and purchase more electric buses. These changes will make a tremendous difference to the millions of people across the tristate area who use our public transit system every single day.”

    State Senator Andrew Gounardes said, “It’s never been more important to invest in our transit system. With so much uncertainty in Washington, New Yorkers are looking to us to offer the safe, reliable, accessible service that they need and deserve. That means new trains, upgraded signals, and long-overdue investments in station elevators and other improvements. This is a long-term investment in the future of our city, our economy and our communities, and I’m glad to work with Governor Hochul and my colleagues in the legislature to deliver it.”

    State Senator Robert Jackson said, “Our subways and buses are not luxuries—they are lifelines. Fully funding the MTA’s Capital Plan is more than an investment in concrete and steel; it’s a commitment to working people, to mobility, to equity. For the essential workers who kept this city alive, for the students racing to class, for the elders who deserve dignity in every ride—this is what putting people first looks like. This robust investment will help the MTA deliver on that promise: expanding ADA accessibility at subway stations across the district I serve, upgrading to clean electric bus fleets, and strengthening the rails and roads that keep my constituents moving. I’m proud to support a plan that moves New Yorkers forward—not just in transit, but in justice.”

    State Senator Cordell Cleare said, “We are hoping that this funding will extend to much needed projects like the Second Avenue Subway expansion, and other long-requested and necessary MTA accessibility upgrades and transportation alternatives, plus efforts to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and pressing forward with modernizing the subway system and improving overall air quality. My constituents in the 30th District are awaiting the implementation of these improvements.”

    State Senator Kristen Gonzalez said, “I’m proud to have advocated for the full funding of the $68 billion MTA Capital Plan. This pro-transit investment will result in infrastructure improvements that will benefit my constituents, including Midtown tunnel upgrades and Communications-Based Train Control (CBTC) modernization. I’m grateful to advocates, Majority Leader Stewart-Cousins, and Governor Hochul for this funding to move our city and state forward.”

    Assemblymember Deborah J. Glick said, “The MTA is vital not only to New York City residents who depend on it for their daily commute, but for the entire metro area. Many New Yorkers rely on the MTA to enter the city to work, dine, and recreate. Fully funding the MTA capital plan will provide the resources that are needed to expand and modernize services, while increasing the environmental benefits gained by supporting a reliable public transit system. I thank Governor Hochul for her work in securing this critical funding.”

    Assemblymember Rodneyse Bichotte-Hermelyn said, “Public transportation is critical for many of my constituents, and for the millions of New Yorkers (and beyond) who rely on MTA’s infrastructure to keep moving forward. I applaud Governor Hochul and my colleagues for passing this legislation to make critical, record-high investments to improve transit for all New Yorkers, with a fully-funded 2025-29 Capital Plan. These prudent policies and transformative investments will ensure New York City’s largest public transportation system is continually improving, modernizing, and making our commutes better – all while creating good-paying jobs.”

    Assemblymember Yudelka Tapia said, “This historic investment in our transit infrastructure is a game changer for the Bronx. Fully funding the MTA’s Capital Plan means safer and more reliable service for our residents who rely on public transportation every day. I’m proud to support a budget that delivers the resources our communities need.”

    Assemblymember Brian Cunningham said, “A fully funded MTA Capital Plan is an important step toward delivering the transit improvements our communities deserve. For residents in my district, systemwide investments in accessibility and upgraded infrastructure will mean more dependable service and stronger connections to opportunity. The Interborough Express will bring new, much-needed transit options to Brooklyn residents who have long lacked efficient cross-borough service. This plan lays the groundwork for meaningful improvements in my district of Crown Heights, Prospect Lefferts Gardens, Flatbush, as well as across New York City’s transit system.”

    Assemblymember Tony Simone said, “The 2025-2029 MTA Capital Plan is essential for both riders and our local economy. This historic investment by Governor Hochul and the Legislature will address the significant infrastructure issues our aging system faces, enabling it to make large strides towards becoming a truly 21st century system worthy of our great city.”

    Assemblymember George Alvarez said, “I want to thank Governor Hochul for her strong support for, and meaningful investment in, New York City’s public transit system. The Governor clearly understands that improvements in transit translate to more opportunity, a better quality-of-life, and a stronger economy for all New Yorkers.”

    New York City Comptroller Brad Lander said, “For decades, Albany underfunded the MTA and neglected the needs of our transit system, creating a multibillion-dollar backlog of deferred maintenance that led to several preventable system failures — most notably, the infamous ‘Summer of Hell’ in 2017. By fully funding the 2025-2029 Capital Plan, the FY2026 Budget brings much-needed stability to the MTA’s finances and will deliver billions in subway accessibility, safety, and state-of-good repair improvements. Thanks to the efforts of Governor Hochul and the Legislature, a more accessible, reliable, and safer transit system is finally within reach.”

    Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine said, “There is no New York City without mass transit, so I am thrilled that this year’s state budget will fully fund the MTA’s 2025-29 Capital Plan. This plan will improve service, safety, and reliability for the millions of New Yorkers who take transit every day, with investments like making at least 60 stations fully accessible, modernizing signals to speed up service, replacing 40+ year old subway cars, and more. I commend the Governor, legislature, and MTA for getting this done.”

    New York City Council Deputy Speaker Diana Ayala said, “I commend Governor Hochul for her leadership and commitment to strengthening public transit infrastructure across New York City. The full funding of the MTA’s $68.4 billion Capital Plan marks a historic investment that will directly benefit the people of East Harlem and the South Bronx—communities that rely heavily on our transit system every single day. This funding will improve service, accessibility, and safety, helping to close long-standing transit equity gaps and ensuring that our constituents can commute, work, and live with the reliability and dignity they deserve.”

    Council Member Gale Brewer said, “This investment in the MTA is a huge win for New Yorkers who rely on public transit every day. Fully funding the Capital Plan means safer, more reliable service, and long-overdue upgrades that will benefit every borough. I thank Governor Hochul for her leadership and continued commitment to a more equitable, accessible, and resilient transportation system.”

    Permanent Citizens Advisory Committee to the MTA Executive Director Lisa Daglian said, “The region’s riders have a lot to be thankful for in the state budget. Governor Hochul, Senate Majority Leader Stewart-Cousins and Assembly Speaker Heastie clearly understand the importance of the MTA to the millions of New Yorkers who use transit everyday, to our economy, and to employers across New York State. We are grateful for their steadfast support. Fully funding the 2025-29 MTA Capital Plan ensures the $1.5 trillion asset that keeps our region moving is kept in a state of good repair and brought into the 21st century – especially important in light of unwarranted threats to transportation programs from the federal government. Funding critical safety programs and support services will help riders feel and be safe underground — progressing what we have already begun to see. We look forward to continuing to work with Governor Hochul and the Legislature to advance more equitable access to affordable transit, especially for the New Yorkers who need it most.”

    Transportation Alternatives Executive Director Ben Furnas said, “A fully-funded MTA Capital Plan is existential for the future of our city. Congratulations to Governor Hochul and the legislature for their leadership. New York as we know it is only possible with mass transit. Our bridges and subways need to be brought into a state of good repair, and we need to be able to expand bus and train service in order to grow as a city without adding more cars to the road.”

    Brooklyn Center for Independence of the Disabled Executive Director Joe Rappaport said, “A fully funded 2025-2029 capital budget means the MTA will meet its legal requirement to add elevators at dozens of stations across the city. It will get the MTA closer to meeting its ultimate goal of making virtually all subway stations accessible, as it agreed to do as part of a 2022 settlement with disability advocates, including BCID. It’ll also pay for other improvements that all riders need, whether or not they have a disability. We applaud Gov. Hochul’s and the legislature’s vision in passing this vitally needed funding.”

    Regional Plan Association President and CEO Tom Wright said, “As RPA’s recent research has shown, the 2025-2029 MTA Capital Plan will enable the region’s 2.1 million riders who live in the MTA service area and regularly take transit to work to earn $187 billion in wages, powering the economy of the New York region. Thanks to the determination and dedication of Governor Hochul and the New York State Legislature, all the region’s riders will be able to rely on the vital infrastructure investments secured in this year’s New York State budget that will make taking transit more reliable, comfortable, safe, and accessible.”

    Riders Alliance Executive Director Betsy Plum said, “Public transit riders organized and Governor Hochul and the legislature heard us loud and clear. This budget builds on New York’s successful congestion relief program to keep fixing the subway that millions of us depend on every day. We’re grateful to the governor for her leadership in funding and maintaining a safe, affordable, reliable, accessible public transit system for all New Yorkers.”

    General Contractors Association of New York Executive Director Robert G. Wessels said, “We have worked hard in Albany, Washington, and right here in New York City to support funding for many MTA Capital Programs since its first five year plan in 1982, yet this one is particularly satisfying given its extraordinary level of investment. We commend the Governor for her efforts in getting this done, and our over 250 members and 25,000 skilled trades workers look forward to continuing to help New York rebuild and expand the nation’s premier transportation system.”

    New York Building Congress President and CEO Carlo Scissura said, “We are thrilled to see our partners in state government heed our industry’s call to ensure the MTA gets the funding it needs for the world class transit future New Yorkers deserve. Fully funding the MTA’s 2025–2029 Capital Program in the State Budget will generate over $106 billion in economic activity and support nearly 73,000 good-paying jobs across New York State, while delivering much-needed improvements to our transit infrastructure. The Capital Plan is essential to the continued growth of the region and is one of our strongest economic drivers. Building Congress members are ready to roll up their sleeves and get to work building a transportation network we can continue to be proud of. We thank Governor Hochul, Speaker Heastie, Majority Leader Stewart-Cousins, and the entire legislature for their leadership and commitment to New York’s future.”

    Felice Farber Executive Director Subcontractors Trade Association said, “We applaud Governor Hochul, Speaker Heastie, Majority Leader Stewart Cousins and the state legislature for their leadership in passing a budget that fully funds the MTA capital program. This critical investment not only ensures a safer, more reliable, and modernized transit system for millions of New Yorkers, but also fuels job growth and economic opportunity across the state. For subcontractors and small businesses, full funding means expanded access to projects, more predictable work pipelines, and a stronger foundation for long-term growth and innovation in the transportation infrastructure sector.”

    American Institute of Architects New York Chapter Executive Director Jesse Lazar said, “AIANY applauds Governor Hochul, Majority Leader Stewart-Cousins, Speaker Heastie, and the Members of the New York State Legislature for their demonstrated commitment to our public transportation system. This investment in the 2025-2029 Capital Plan will have critical impacts on the resiliency of our transit system with signal modernization and new rail cars as well as valuable expansion projects such as the Interborough Express. The design community is eager to continue its work with the MTA to ensure our region’s infrastructure is well-maintained and quality is prioritized.”

    Real Estate Board of New York President Jim Whelan said, “A world class transit infrastructure network is essential for attracting and retaining residents and businesses, and will help encourage investment for new real estate developments. REBNY commends the Governor and State Legislature for outlining a sustainable funding plan for the MTA as part of the budget.”

    Associated General Contractors of New York State President and CEO Mike Elmendorf said, “The fact that the enacted state budget fully funds the MTA Capital Program is welcome news for New York’s commuters and economy. This, coupled with the budget’s inclusion of increased funding for core NYSDOT capital needs and for local roads and bridges—highlights just how critical infrastructure is to our communities and economy. We commend Governor Hochul and the Legislature for recognizing this reality and for their forward-looking action.”

    American Council of Engineering Companies of New York President and CEO John T. Evers said, “New York’s economic future depends on the efficiency and effectiveness of our transportation systems, and that’s why we would like to applaud the steadfast leadership of Governor Kathy Hochul and our legislative leaders for their diligent work to significantly increase in the budget of $800 million for the state Department of Transportation’s Capital Plan and adopt the five-year MTA Capital Plan. This funding will enable necessary upgrades to our aging network of roads, bridges and tunnels statewide, ensuring millions of New Yorkers can move forward in a safer and more sustainable manner. Improving our infrastructure means improving our quality of life, and as leaders in design and engineering, our members commend our government partners for securing the funds to better protect generations to come.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Why protecting wildland is crucial to American freedom and identity

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Leisl Carr Childers, Associate Professor of History, Colorado State University

    The Wet Beaver Wilderness in Coconino National Forest in Arizona is one of many designated wilderness areas in the U.S. Deborah Lee Soltesz

    As summer approaches, millions of Americans begin planning or taking trips to state and national parks, seeking to explore the wide range of outdoor recreational opportunities across the nation. A lot of them will head toward the nation’s wilderness areas – 110 million acres, mostly in the West, that are protected by the strictest federal conservation rules.

    When Congress passed the Wilderness Act in 1964, it described wilderness areas as places that evoked mystery and wonder, “where the earth and its community of life are untrammeled by man, where man himself is a visitor who does not remain.” These are wild landscapes that present nature in its rawest form.

    The law requires the federal government to protect these areas “for the permanent good of the whole people.” Wilderness areas are found in national parks, conservation land overseen by the U.S. Bureau of Land Management, national forests and U.S. Fish and Wildlife refuges.

    In early May 2025, the U.S. House of Representatives began to consider allowing the sale of federal lands in six counties in Nevada and Utah, five of which contain wilderness areas. Ostensibly, these sales are to promote affordable housing, but the reality is that the proposal, introduced by U.S. Rep. Mark Amodei, a Nevada Republican, is a departure from the standard process of federal land exchanges that accommodate development in some places but protect wilderness in others.

    Regardless of whether Americans visit their public lands or know when they have crossed a wilderness boundary, as environmental historians we believe that everyone still benefits from the existence and protection of these precious places.

    This belief is an idea eloquently articulated and popularized 65 years ago by the noted Western writer Wallace Stegner. His eloquence helped launch the modern environmental movement and gave power to the idea that the nation’s public lands are a fundamental part of the United States’ national identity and a cornerstone of American freedom.

    Humble origins

    In 1958, Congress established the Outdoor Recreation Resources Review Commission to examine outdoor recreation in the U.S. in order to determine not only what Americans wanted from the outdoors, but to consider how those needs and desires might change decades into the future.

    One of the commission’s members was David E. Pesonen, who worked at the Wildland Research Center at the University of California at Berkeley. He was asked to examine wilderness and its relationship to outdoor recreation. Pesonen later became a notable environmental lawyer and leader of the Sierra Club. But at the time, Pesonen had no idea what to say about wilderness.

    However, he knew someone who did. Pesonen had been impressed by the wild landscapes of the American West in Stegner’s 1954 history “Beyond the Hundredth Meridian: John Wesley Powell and the Second Opening of the West.” So he wrote to Stegner, who at the time was at Stanford University, asking for help in articulating the wilderness idea.

    Stegner’s response, which he said later was written in a single afternoon, was an off-the-cuff riff on why he cared about preserving wildlands. This letter became known as the Wilderness Letter and marked a turning point in American political and conservation history.

    Pesonen shared the letter with the rest of the commission, which also shared it with newly installed Secretary of the Interior Stewart Udall. Udall found its prose to be so profound, he read it at the seventh Wilderness Conference in 1961 in San Francisco, a speech broadcast by KCBS, the local FM radio station. The Sierra Club published the letter in the record of the conference’s proceedings later that year.

    But it was not until its publication in The Washington Post on June 17, 1962, that the letter reached a national audience and captured the imagination of generations of Americans.

    Wallace Stegner, right, knew the power of American wilderness landscapes. In this photo, probably from the 1950s, he pauses with his son Page and wife, Mary, on a Yosemite National Park hiking trail.
    Multimedia Archives, Special Collections, J. Willard Marriott Library, University of Utah

    An eloquent appeal

    In the letter, Stegner connected the idea of wilderness to a fundamental part of American identity. He called wilderness “something that has helped form our character and that has certainly shaped our history as a people … the challenge against which our character as a people was formed … (and) the thing that has helped to make an American different from and, until we forget it in the roar of our industrial cities, more fortunate than other men.”

    Without wild places, he argued, the U.S. would be just like every other overindustrialized place in the world.

    In the letter, Stegner expressed little concern with how wilderness might support outdoor recreation on public lands. He didn’t care whether wilderness areas had once featured roads, trails, homesteads or even natural resource extraction. What he cared about was Americans’ freedom to protect and enjoy these places. Stegner recognized that the freedom to protect, to restrain ourselves from consuming, was just as important as the freedom to consume.

    Perhaps most importantly, he wrote, wilderness was “an intangible and spiritual resource,” a place that gave the nation “our hope and our excitement,” landscapes that were “good for our spiritual health even if we never once in ten years set foot in it.”

    Without it, Stegner lamented, “never again will Americans be free in their own country from the noise, the exhausts, the stinks of human and automotive waste.” To him, the nation’s natural cathedrals and the vaulted ceiling of the pure blue sky are Americans’ sacred spaces as much as the structures in which they worship on the weekends.

    Stegner penned the letter during a national debate about the value of preserving wild places in the face of future development. “Something will have gone out of us as a people,” he wrote, “if we ever let the remaining wilderness be destroyed.” If not protected, Stegner believed these wildlands that had helped shape American identity would fall to what he viewed as the same exploitative forces of unrestrained capitalism that had industrialized the nation for the past century. Every generation since has an obligation to protect these wild places.

    Stegner’s Wilderness Letter became a rallying cry to pass the Wilderness Act. The closing sentences of the letter are Stegner’s best: “We simply need that wild country available to us, even if we never do more than drive to its edge and look in. For it can be a means of reassuring ourselves of our sanity as creatures, a part of the geography of hope.”

    This phrase, “the geography of hope,” is Stegner’s most famous line. It has become shorthand for what wilderness means: the wildlands that defined American character on the Western frontier, the wild spaces that Americans have had the freedom to protect, and the natural places that give Americans hope for the future of this planet.

    Death Valley National Park in California contains one of the largest protected wilderness areas in the United States.
    National Park Service/E. Letterman

    America’s ‘best idea’

    Stegner returned to themes outlined in the Wilderness Letter again two decades later in his essay “The Best Idea We Ever Had: An Overview,” published in Wilderness magazine in spring 1983.

    Writing in response to the Reagan administration’s efforts to reduce protection of the National Park System, Stegner declared that the parks were “Absolutely American, absolutely democratic.” He said they reflect us as a nation, at our best rather than our worst, and without them, millions of Americans’ lives, his included, would have been poorer.

    Public lands are more than just wilderness or national parks. They are places for work and play. They provide natural resources, wildlife habitat, clean air, clean water and recreational opportunities to small towns and sprawling metro areas alike. They are, as Stegner said, cures for cynicism and places of shared hope.

    Stegner’s words still resonate as Americans head for their public lands and enjoy the beauty of the wild places protected by wilderness legislation this summer. With visitor numbers increasing annually and agency budgets at historic lows, we believe it is useful to remember how precious these places are for all Americans. And we agree with Stegner that wilderness, public lands writ large, are more valuable to Americans’ collective identity and expression of freedom than they are as real estate that can be sold or commodities that can be extracted.

    Leisl Carr Childers has received funding from the USDA Forest Service, the Henry Luce Foundation, Colorado Parks and Wildlife, and Charles Redd Center for Western Studies.

    Michael Childers has received funding from the USDA Forest Service, the Henry Luce Foundation, Colorado Parks and Wildlife, and the Charles Redd Center for Western Studies.

    – ref. Why protecting wildland is crucial to American freedom and identity – https://theconversation.com/why-protecting-wildland-is-crucial-to-american-freedom-and-identity-254862

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Apple unveils powerful accessibility features coming later this year

    Source: Apple

    Headline: Apple unveils powerful accessibility features coming later this year

    May 13, 2025

    PRESS RELEASE

    Apple unveils powerful accessibility features coming later this year

    New features include Accessibility Nutrition Labels on the App Store, Magnifier for Mac, Braille Access, and Accessibility Reader; plus innovative updates to Live Listen, visionOS, Personal Voice, and more

    CUPERTINO, CALIFORNIA Apple today announced new accessibility features coming later this year, including Accessibility Nutrition Labels, which will provide more detailed information for apps and games on the App Store. Users who are blind or have low vision can explore, learn, and interact using the new Magnifier app for Mac; take notes and perform calculations with the new Braille Access feature; and leverage the powerful camera system of Apple Vision Pro with new updates to visionOS. Additional announcements include Accessibility Reader, a new systemwide reading mode designed with accessibility in mind, along with updates to Live Listen, Background Sounds, Personal Voice, Vehicle Motion Cues, and more. Leveraging the power of Apple silicon — along with advances in on-device machine learning and artificial intelligence — users will experience a new level of accessibility across the Apple ecosystem.

    “At Apple, accessibility is part of our DNA,” said Tim Cook, Apple’s CEO. “Making technology for everyone is a priority for all of us, and we’re proud of the innovations we’re sharing this year. That includes tools to help people access crucial information, explore the world around them, and do what they love.”

    “Building on 40 years of accessibility innovation at Apple, we are dedicated to pushing forward with new accessibility features for all of our products,” said Sarah Herrlinger, Apple’s senior director of Global Accessibility Policy and Initiatives. “Powered by the Apple ecosystem, these features work seamlessly together to bring users new ways to engage with the things they care about most.”

    Accessibility Nutrition Labels Come to the App Store

    Accessibility Nutrition Labels bring a new section to App Store product pages that will highlight accessibility features within apps and games. These labels give users a new way to learn if an app will be accessible to them before they download it, and give developers the opportunity to better inform and educate their users on features their app supports. This includes VoiceOver, Voice Control, Larger Text, Sufficient Contrast, Reduced Motion, captions, and more. Accessibility Nutrition Labels will be available on the App Store worldwide, and developers can access more guidance on the criteria apps should meet before displaying accessibility information on their product pages.

    “Accessibility Nutrition Labels are a huge step forward for accessibility,” said Eric Bridges, the American Foundation for the Blind’s president and CEO. “Consumers deserve to know if a product or service will be accessible to them from the very start, and Apple has a long-standing history of delivering tools and technologies that allow developers to build experiences for everyone. These labels will give people with disabilities a new way to easily make more informed decisions and make purchases with a new level of confidence.”

    An All-New Magnifier for Mac

    Since 2016, Magnifier on iPhone and iPad has given users who are blind or have low vision tools to zoom in, read text, and detect objects around them. This year, Magnifier is coming to Mac to make the physical world more accessible for users with low vision. The Magnifier app for Mac connects to a user’s camera so they can zoom in on their surroundings, such as a screen or whiteboard. Magnifier works with Continuity Camera on iPhone as well as attached USB cameras, and supports reading documents using Desk View.

    With multiple live session windows, users can multitask by viewing a presentation with a webcam while simultaneously following along in a book using Desk View. With customized views, users can adjust brightness, contrast, color filters, and even perspective to make text and images easier to see. Views can also be captured, grouped, and saved to add to later on. Additionally, Magnifier for Mac is integrated with another new accessibility feature, Accessibility Reader, which transforms text from the physical world into a custom legible format.

    A New Braille Experience

    Braille Access is an all-new experience that turns iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Vision Pro into a full-featured braille note taker that’s deeply integrated into the Apple ecosystem. With a built-in app launcher, users can easily open any app by typing with Braille Screen Input or a connected braille device. With Braille Access, users can quickly take notes in braille format and perform calculations using Nemeth Braille, a braille code often used in classrooms for math and science. Users can open Braille Ready Format (BRF) files directly from Braille Access, unlocking a wide range of books and files previously created on a braille note taking device. And an integrated form of Live Captions allows users to transcribe conversations in real time directly on braille displays.

    Introducing Accessibility Reader

    Accessibility Reader is a new systemwide reading mode designed to make text easier to read for users with a wide range of disabilities, such as dyslexia or low vision. Available on iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Vision Pro, Accessibility Reader gives users new ways to customize text and focus on content they want to read, with extensive options for font, color, and spacing, as well as support for Spoken Content. Accessibility Reader can be launched from any app, and is built into the Magnifier app for iOS, iPadOS, and macOS, so users can interact with text in the real world, like in books or on dining menus.

    Live Captions Arrive on Apple Watch

    For users who are deaf or hard of hearing, Live Listen controls come to Apple Watch with a new set of features, including real-time Live Captions. Live Listen turns iPhone into a remote microphone to stream content directly to AirPods, Made for iPhone hearing aids, or Beats headphones. When a session is active on iPhone, users can view Live Captions of what their iPhone hears on a paired Apple Watch while listening along to the audio. Apple Watch serves as a remote control to start or stop Live Listen sessions, or jump back in a session to capture something that may have been missed. With Apple Watch, Live Listen sessions can be controlled from across the room, so there’s no need to get up in the middle of a meeting or during class. Live Listen can be used along with hearing health features available on AirPods Pro 2, including the first-of-its-kind clinical-grade Hearing Aid feature.

    An Enhanced View with Apple Vision Pro

    For users who are blind or have low vision, visionOS will expand vision accessibility features using the advanced camera system on Apple Vision Pro. With powerful updates to Zoom, users can magnify everything in view — including their surroundings — using the main camera. For VoiceOver users, Live Recognition in visionOS uses on-device machine learning to describe surroundings, find objects, read documents, and more.1 For accessibility developers, a new API will enable approved apps to access the main camera to provide live, person-to-person assistance for visual interpretation in apps like Be My Eyes, giving users more ways to understand their surroundings hands-free.

    Additional Updates

    • Background Sounds becomes easier to personalize with new EQ settings, the option to stop automatically after a period of time, and new actions for automations in Shortcuts. Background Sounds can help minimize distractions to increase a sense of focus and relaxation, which some users find can help with symptoms of tinnitus.
    • For users at risk of losing their ability to speak, Personal Voice becomes faster, easier, and more powerful than ever, leveraging advances in on-device machine learning and artificial intelligence to create a smoother, more natural-sounding voice in less than a minute, using only 10 recorded phrases. Personal Voice will also add support for Spanish (Mexico).2
    • Vehicle Motion Cues, which can help reduce motion sickness when riding in a moving vehicle, comes to Mac, along with new ways to customize the animated onscreen dots on iPhone, iPad, and Mac.
    • Eye Tracking users on iPhone and iPad will now have the option to use a switch or dwell to make selections. Keyboard typing when using Eye Tracking or Switch Control is now easier on iPhone, iPad, and Apple Vision Pro with improvements including a new keyboard dwell timer, reduced steps when typing with switches, and enabling QuickPath for iPhone and Vision Pro.
    • With Head Tracking, users will be able to more easily control iPhone and iPad with head movements, similar to Eye Tracking.
    • For users with severe mobility disabilities, iOS, iPadOS, and visionOS will add a new protocol to support Switch Control for Brain Computer Interfaces (BCIs), an emerging technology that allows users to control their device without physical movement.
    • Assistive Access adds a new custom Apple TV app with a simplified media player. Developers will also get support in creating tailored experiences for users with intellectual and developmental disabilities using the Assistive Access API.
    • Music Haptics on iPhone becomes more customizable with the option to experience haptics for a whole song or for vocals only, as well as the option to adjust the overall intensity of taps, textures, and vibrations.
    • Sound Recognition adds Name Recognition, a new way for users who are deaf or hard of hearing to know when their name is being called.
    • Voice Control introduces a new programming mode in Xcode for software developers with limited mobility. Voice Control also adds vocabulary syncing across devices, and will expand language support to include Korean, Arabic (Saudi Arabia), Turkish, Italian, Spanish (Latin America), Mandarin Chinese (Taiwan), English (Singapore), and Russian.
    • Live Captions adds support to include English (India, Australia, UK, Singapore), Mandarin Chinese (Mainland China), Cantonese (Mainland China, Hong Kong), Spanish (Latin America, Spain), French (France, Canada), Japanese, German (Germany), and Korean.
    • Updates to CarPlay include support for Large Text. With updates to Sound Recognition in CarPlay, drivers or passengers who are deaf or hard of hearing can now be notified of the sound of a crying baby, in addition to sounds outside the car such as horns and sirens.
    • Share Accessibility Settings is a new way for users to quickly and temporarily share their accessibility settings with another iPhone or iPad. This is great for borrowing a friend’s device or using a public kiosk in a setting like a cafe.

    Celebrate Global Accessibility Awareness Day with Apple

    Apple Retail is introducing dedicated tables spotlighting accessibility features on a variety of devices in select store locations throughout the month of May. Additionally, Apple offers accessibility sessions year-round through Today at Apple for deeper learning, tips, and feature customization. Sessions can be scheduled at all Apple Store locations worldwide through Group Booking or by visiting a nearby store.

    Apple Music shares the story of artist Kiddo K and the power of music haptics for users who are deaf or hard of hearing, unveils updates to its Haptics playlists, and launches a brand-new playlist featuring ASL interpretations of music videos alongside Saylists playlists.

    Apple Fitness+ welcomes Chelsie Hill as a guest in a Dance workout with Fitness+ trainer Ben Allen. Hill is a professional dancer and founder of Rolettes, an L.A.-based wheelchair dance team that advocates for disability representation and women’s empowerment. The workout is available now in the Fitness+ app.

    Apple TV+ shares a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the new Apple Original film Deaf President Now!, which premieres on Apple TV+ on May 16. The documentary tells the story of the greatest civil rights movement most people have never heard about, which unfolded across eight tumultuous days in 1988. At the world’s only Deaf university, four students must find a way to lead an angry mob — and change the course of history.

    Apple Books, Apple Podcasts, Apple TV, and Apple News will spotlight stories of people with disabilities and those who are working to make the world more accessible for everyone.

    The App Store is sharing a collection of apps and games designed to be accessible to everyone, in addition to featuring the story of Klemens Strasser, a developer guided by a philosophy of making accessible apps and games like The Art of Fauna.

    The Shortcuts app adds Hold That Thought, a shortcut that prompts users to capture and recall information in a note so interruptions don’t derail their flow. The Accessibility Assistant shortcut has been added to Shortcuts on Apple Vision Pro to help recommend accessibility features based on user preferences.

    New videos on the Apple Support accessibility playlist include features like Eye Tracking, Vocal Shortcuts, and Vehicle Motion Cues, as well as a library of videos to help everyone personalize their iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, and Apple Vision Pro to work best for them.

    About Apple Apple revolutionized personal technology with the introduction of the Macintosh in 1984. Today, Apple leads the world in innovation with iPhone, iPad, Mac, AirPods, Apple Watch, and Apple Vision Pro. Apple’s six software platforms — iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, visionOS, and tvOS — provide seamless experiences across all Apple devices and empower people with breakthrough services including the App Store, Apple Music, Apple Pay, iCloud, and Apple TV+. Apple’s more than 150,000 employees are dedicated to making the best products on earth and to leaving the world better than we found it.

    1. Live Recognition should not be relied on in high-risk or emergency situations, in circumstances where the user may be harmed or injured, or for navigation.
    2. Personal Voice can only be used to create a voice that sounds like the user on device, using their own voice, and for their own personal, noncommercial use.

    Press Contacts

    Will Butler

    Apple

    willbutler@apple.com

    Apple Media Helpline

    media.help@apple.com

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Apple unveils powerful accessibility features coming later this year

    Source: Apple

    Headline: Apple unveils powerful accessibility features coming later this year

    May 13, 2025

    PRESS RELEASE

    Apple unveils powerful accessibility features coming later this year

    New features include Accessibility Nutrition Labels on the App Store, Magnifier for Mac, Braille Access, and Accessibility Reader; plus innovative updates to Live Listen, visionOS, Personal Voice, and more

    CUPERTINO, CALIFORNIA Apple today announced new accessibility features coming later this year, including Accessibility Nutrition Labels, which will provide more detailed information for apps and games on the App Store. Users who are blind or have low vision can explore, learn, and interact using the new Magnifier app for Mac; take notes and perform calculations with the new Braille Access feature; and leverage the powerful camera system of Apple Vision Pro with new updates to visionOS. Additional announcements include Accessibility Reader, a new systemwide reading mode designed with accessibility in mind, along with updates to Live Listen, Background Sounds, Personal Voice, Vehicle Motion Cues, and more. Leveraging the power of Apple silicon — along with advances in on-device machine learning and artificial intelligence — users will experience a new level of accessibility across the Apple ecosystem.

    “At Apple, accessibility is part of our DNA,” said Tim Cook, Apple’s CEO. “Making technology for everyone is a priority for all of us, and we’re proud of the innovations we’re sharing this year. That includes tools to help people access crucial information, explore the world around them, and do what they love.”

    “Building on 40 years of accessibility innovation at Apple, we are dedicated to pushing forward with new accessibility features for all of our products,” said Sarah Herrlinger, Apple’s senior director of Global Accessibility Policy and Initiatives. “Powered by the Apple ecosystem, these features work seamlessly together to bring users new ways to engage with the things they care about most.”

    Accessibility Nutrition Labels Come to the App Store

    Accessibility Nutrition Labels bring a new section to App Store product pages that will highlight accessibility features within apps and games. These labels give users a new way to learn if an app will be accessible to them before they download it, and give developers the opportunity to better inform and educate their users on features their app supports. This includes VoiceOver, Voice Control, Larger Text, Sufficient Contrast, Reduced Motion, captions, and more. Accessibility Nutrition Labels will be available on the App Store worldwide, and developers can access more guidance on the criteria apps should meet before displaying accessibility information on their product pages.

    “Accessibility Nutrition Labels are a huge step forward for accessibility,” said Eric Bridges, the American Foundation for the Blind’s president and CEO. “Consumers deserve to know if a product or service will be accessible to them from the very start, and Apple has a long-standing history of delivering tools and technologies that allow developers to build experiences for everyone. These labels will give people with disabilities a new way to easily make more informed decisions and make purchases with a new level of confidence.”

    An All-New Magnifier for Mac

    Since 2016, Magnifier on iPhone and iPad has given users who are blind or have low vision tools to zoom in, read text, and detect objects around them. This year, Magnifier is coming to Mac to make the physical world more accessible for users with low vision. The Magnifier app for Mac connects to a user’s camera so they can zoom in on their surroundings, such as a screen or whiteboard. Magnifier works with Continuity Camera on iPhone as well as attached USB cameras, and supports reading documents using Desk View.

    With multiple live session windows, users can multitask by viewing a presentation with a webcam while simultaneously following along in a book using Desk View. With customized views, users can adjust brightness, contrast, color filters, and even perspective to make text and images easier to see. Views can also be captured, grouped, and saved to add to later on. Additionally, Magnifier for Mac is integrated with another new accessibility feature, Accessibility Reader, which transforms text from the physical world into a custom legible format.

    A New Braille Experience

    Braille Access is an all-new experience that turns iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Vision Pro into a full-featured braille note taker that’s deeply integrated into the Apple ecosystem. With a built-in app launcher, users can easily open any app by typing with Braille Screen Input or a connected braille device. With Braille Access, users can quickly take notes in braille format and perform calculations using Nemeth Braille, a braille code often used in classrooms for math and science. Users can open Braille Ready Format (BRF) files directly from Braille Access, unlocking a wide range of books and files previously created on a braille note taking device. And an integrated form of Live Captions allows users to transcribe conversations in real time directly on braille displays.

    Introducing Accessibility Reader

    Accessibility Reader is a new systemwide reading mode designed to make text easier to read for users with a wide range of disabilities, such as dyslexia or low vision. Available on iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Vision Pro, Accessibility Reader gives users new ways to customize text and focus on content they want to read, with extensive options for font, color, and spacing, as well as support for Spoken Content. Accessibility Reader can be launched from any app, and is built into the Magnifier app for iOS, iPadOS, and macOS, so users can interact with text in the real world, like in books or on dining menus.

    Live Captions Arrive on Apple Watch

    For users who are deaf or hard of hearing, Live Listen controls come to Apple Watch with a new set of features, including real-time Live Captions. Live Listen turns iPhone into a remote microphone to stream content directly to AirPods, Made for iPhone hearing aids, or Beats headphones. When a session is active on iPhone, users can view Live Captions of what their iPhone hears on a paired Apple Watch while listening along to the audio. Apple Watch serves as a remote control to start or stop Live Listen sessions, or jump back in a session to capture something that may have been missed. With Apple Watch, Live Listen sessions can be controlled from across the room, so there’s no need to get up in the middle of a meeting or during class. Live Listen can be used along with hearing health features available on AirPods Pro 2, including the first-of-its-kind clinical-grade Hearing Aid feature.

    An Enhanced View with Apple Vision Pro

    For users who are blind or have low vision, visionOS will expand vision accessibility features using the advanced camera system on Apple Vision Pro. With powerful updates to Zoom, users can magnify everything in view — including their surroundings — using the main camera. For VoiceOver users, Live Recognition in visionOS uses on-device machine learning to describe surroundings, find objects, read documents, and more.1 For accessibility developers, a new API will enable approved apps to access the main camera to provide live, person-to-person assistance for visual interpretation in apps like Be My Eyes, giving users more ways to understand their surroundings hands-free.

    Additional Updates

    • Background Sounds becomes easier to personalize with new EQ settings, the option to stop automatically after a period of time, and new actions for automations in Shortcuts. Background Sounds can help minimize distractions to increase a sense of focus and relaxation, which some users find can help with symptoms of tinnitus.
    • For users at risk of losing their ability to speak, Personal Voice becomes faster, easier, and more powerful than ever, leveraging advances in on-device machine learning and artificial intelligence to create a smoother, more natural-sounding voice in less than a minute, using only 10 recorded phrases. Personal Voice will also add support for Spanish (Mexico).2
    • Vehicle Motion Cues, which can help reduce motion sickness when riding in a moving vehicle, comes to Mac, along with new ways to customize the animated onscreen dots on iPhone, iPad, and Mac.
    • Eye Tracking users on iPhone and iPad will now have the option to use a switch or dwell to make selections. Keyboard typing when using Eye Tracking or Switch Control is now easier on iPhone, iPad, and Apple Vision Pro with improvements including a new keyboard dwell timer, reduced steps when typing with switches, and enabling QuickPath for iPhone and Vision Pro.
    • With Head Tracking, users will be able to more easily control iPhone and iPad with head movements, similar to Eye Tracking.
    • For users with severe mobility disabilities, iOS, iPadOS, and visionOS will add a new protocol to support Switch Control for Brain Computer Interfaces (BCIs), an emerging technology that allows users to control their device without physical movement.
    • Assistive Access adds a new custom Apple TV app with a simplified media player. Developers will also get support in creating tailored experiences for users with intellectual and developmental disabilities using the Assistive Access API.
    • Music Haptics on iPhone becomes more customizable with the option to experience haptics for a whole song or for vocals only, as well as the option to adjust the overall intensity of taps, textures, and vibrations.
    • Sound Recognition adds Name Recognition, a new way for users who are deaf or hard of hearing to know when their name is being called.
    • Voice Control introduces a new programming mode in Xcode for software developers with limited mobility. Voice Control also adds vocabulary syncing across devices, and will expand language support to include Korean, Arabic (Saudi Arabia), Turkish, Italian, Spanish (Latin America), Mandarin Chinese (Taiwan), English (Singapore), and Russian.
    • Live Captions adds support to include English (India, Australia, UK, Singapore), Mandarin Chinese (Mainland China), Cantonese (Mainland China, Hong Kong), Spanish (Latin America, Spain), French (France, Canada), Japanese, German (Germany), and Korean.
    • Updates to CarPlay include support for Large Text. With updates to Sound Recognition in CarPlay, drivers or passengers who are deaf or hard of hearing can now be notified of the sound of a crying baby, in addition to sounds outside the car such as horns and sirens.
    • Share Accessibility Settings is a new way for users to quickly and temporarily share their accessibility settings with another iPhone or iPad. This is great for borrowing a friend’s device or using a public kiosk in a setting like a cafe.

    Celebrate Global Accessibility Awareness Day with Apple

    Apple Retail is introducing dedicated tables spotlighting accessibility features on a variety of devices in select store locations throughout the month of May. Additionally, Apple offers accessibility sessions year-round through Today at Apple for deeper learning, tips, and feature customization. Sessions can be scheduled at all Apple Store locations worldwide through Group Booking or by visiting a nearby store.

    Apple Music shares the story of artist Kiddo K and the power of music haptics for users who are deaf or hard of hearing, unveils updates to its Haptics playlists, and launches a brand-new playlist featuring ASL interpretations of music videos alongside Saylists playlists.

    Apple Fitness+ welcomes Chelsie Hill as a guest in a Dance workout with Fitness+ trainer Ben Allen. Hill is a professional dancer and founder of Rolettes, an L.A.-based wheelchair dance team that advocates for disability representation and women’s empowerment. The workout is available now in the Fitness+ app.

    Apple TV+ shares a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the new Apple Original film Deaf President Now!, which premieres on Apple TV+ on May 16. The documentary tells the story of the greatest civil rights movement most people have never heard about, which unfolded across eight tumultuous days in 1988. At the world’s only Deaf university, four students must find a way to lead an angry mob — and change the course of history.

    Apple Books, Apple Podcasts, Apple TV, and Apple News will spotlight stories of people with disabilities and those who are working to make the world more accessible for everyone.

    The App Store is sharing a collection of apps and games designed to be accessible to everyone, in addition to featuring the story of Klemens Strasser, a developer guided by a philosophy of making accessible apps and games like The Art of Fauna.

    The Shortcuts app adds Hold That Thought, a shortcut that prompts users to capture and recall information in a note so interruptions don’t derail their flow. The Accessibility Assistant shortcut has been added to Shortcuts on Apple Vision Pro to help recommend accessibility features based on user preferences.

    New videos on the Apple Support accessibility playlist include features like Eye Tracking, Vocal Shortcuts, and Vehicle Motion Cues, as well as a library of videos to help everyone personalize their iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, and Apple Vision Pro to work best for them.

    About Apple Apple revolutionized personal technology with the introduction of the Macintosh in 1984. Today, Apple leads the world in innovation with iPhone, iPad, Mac, AirPods, Apple Watch, and Apple Vision Pro. Apple’s six software platforms — iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, visionOS, and tvOS — provide seamless experiences across all Apple devices and empower people with breakthrough services including the App Store, Apple Music, Apple Pay, iCloud, and Apple TV+. Apple’s more than 150,000 employees are dedicated to making the best products on earth and to leaving the world better than we found it.

    1. Live Recognition should not be relied on in high-risk or emergency situations, in circumstances where the user may be harmed or injured, or for navigation.
    2. Personal Voice can only be used to create a voice that sounds like the user on device, using their own voice, and for their own personal, noncommercial use.

    Press Contacts

    Will Butler

    Apple

    willbutler@apple.com

    Apple Media Helpline

    media.help@apple.com

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/UNITED ARAB EMIRATES – Bishop Martinelli entrusts Pope Leo to Our Lady of Arabia: “A son of migrants”

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Abu Dhabi (Agenzia Fides) – “To Mary, Our Lady of Arabia, we entrust the new Pope Leo XIV,” said Bishop Paolo Martinelli, Apostolic Vicar of Southern Arabia, at the end of his homily at the Holy Mass in Abu Dhabi following the election of Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost as the new Bishop of Rome and Successor of Peter on Thursday, May 8.The day after the papal election, Friday, May 9, Masses were celebrated in all the churches of the Apostolic Vicariate with special prayer intentions for the new Pope and his ministry. Bishop Martinelli, a Capuchin, presided over the evening Eucharist at the parish of St. Joseph in Abu Dhabi, a celebration in which hymns and songs inspired by the figure of St. Peter and Christ the Good Shepherd were sung.”After days of mourning the death of our beloved Pope Francis,” Bishop Paul said, “the Lord has given us a new successor to the Apostle Peter: Robert Francis Prevost, who has taken the name Leo XIV.” “Last night,” he added, “we were all deeply moved to see him appear on screen and address his first words to the People of God.”In his brief homily, Bishop Martinelli recalled that in his first words from the central loggia of the Vatican Basilica, Pope Leo greeted the faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square with the words of the Risen Christ: “Peace be with you,” adding, “A peace that is unarmed and disarming, humble and persevering.” Bishop Martinelli, who presides over an ecclesial community of migrants, emphasized that Pope Leo “is the son of migrants, and this is one of the reasons why we feel particularly close to him. Although he was born in Chicago, he has Italian, French, and Spanish roots,” highlighting some essential characteristics of the new Pontiff’s personality, such as his long experience as a missionary in Peru and his affiliation with the Augustinian Order. “Pope Leo,” Bishop Martinelli continued, quoting his words during his homily as the new Bishop of Rome on Friday, May 9, during Mass in the Sistine Chapel, when he said, “we are called to bring Jesus to others and to proclaim him. We must in a certain sense put ourselves aside so that Jesus can shine; we are called to be signs of his presence. This is the path of witness that we too are called to follow in this part of the world.” He then recalled that the episcopal motto of the new Bishop of Rome “is a saying of Saint Augustine: In Illo unum uno, which means: ‘In the one Jesus we are all one.’” Bishop Martinelli added, “This beautiful expression reminds us that we Christians, although many and diverse, are united in Christ Jesus, as Saint Paul himself writes in his Letter to the Ephesians: ‘Make every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace: one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all.’” (GV) (Agenzia Fides, 13/5/2025)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Pension schemes back British growth

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Pension schemes back British growth

    Mansion House Accord unlocks up to £50 billion investment for the economy, with first commitments to invest in the UK.

    • More ambitious targets than 2023 Mansion House Compact will unlock investment into UK businesses and major infrastructure projects, including clean energy developments. 

    • Comes ahead of Pensions Investment Review final report, which will create megafunds to drive more investment, boost pension pots and grow the economy through the Plan for Change.

    Up to £50 billion of investment for UK businesses and major infrastructure projects is set to be unlocked through a new agreement with Britain’s biggest pension funds, as the Government goes further and faster to drive growth through the Plan for Change.

    Seventeen workplace pension providers managing around 90 percent of active savers’ defined contribution pensions will sign the Mansion House Accord at a roundtable with the Chancellor and Minister for Pensions in the City of London today (Tuesday 13 May). 

    Signatories to the Accord will pledge to invest 10 percent of their workplace portfolios in assets that boost the economy such as infrastructure, property and private equity by 2030. At least 5 percent of these portfolios will be ringfenced for the UK, expected to release £25 billion directly into the UK economy by 2030.  

    This investment could support clean energy developments across the country, delivering greater energy security and helping to lower household bills, as well as delivering growth finance to Britain’s world-leading science and technology businesses – creating jobs, boosting businesses and putting more money into people’s pockets.

    Pension savers will also benefit from the commitment to invest in private markets. Comparable Australian schemes invest significantly more in private markets and domestic companies than UK schemes, and research suggests greater investment in private markets can deliver security through diversified asset holdings and potentially drive higher returns. 

    The pledge follows hot on the heels of securing trade agreements with India and the US, which will add billions of pounds to the UK economy and protect thousands of steel and car manufacturing jobs, as well as a fourth interest rate cut since last Summer. This demonstrates the UK’s strength in navigating a changing world, going further and faster through our Plan for Change to drive growth and put more money into people’s pockets.

    Rachel Reeves, Chancellor of the Exchequer, said:

    Through our Plan for Change, we are choosing to back British businesses and British workers. I welcome this bold step by some of our biggest pension funds, which will unlock billions for major infrastructure, clean energy, and exciting startups — delivering growth, boosting pension pots, and giving working people greater security in retirement.

    Torsten Bell, Minister for Pensions, said:

    Pensions matter hugely, they underpin not just the retirements we all look forward to, but the investment our future prosperity depends on. I hugely welcome the pensions industry decision to invest in more productive assets, from growing companies to infrastructure. This supports better outcomes for savers and faster growth for Britain.

    Today’s announcement is more ambitious than the 2023 Mansion House Compact, where eleven funds committed to the aim of investing 5 percent of their workplace defined contribution default funds – the off-the-shelf funds providers offer to the vast majority of savers – in unlisted companies by 2030. The new commitment involves the vast majority of the industry and brings more assets into scope, doubles the target from 5 percent to 10 percent, and includes a specific commitment to investing 5 percent in the UK. 

    Progress against the commitment will be monitored and the initiative will be reinforced by measures to be announced in the upcoming final report of the Pensions Investment Review. The final report will tackle fragmentation in the UK pension system, creating pension megafunds that take advantage of scale and consolidation like Australian and Canadian funds do, to invest in productive assets like private markets and big infrastructure projects.  

    Some pension funds have already indicated privately that they will go beyond the targets agreed through the Mansion House Accord, which could lead to even more direct investment in the UK economy – and is particularly welcomed by the government. 

    Today’s commitment comes alongside progress in the government’s efforts to help pension savers benefit from the opportunities of investing in UK growth. The British Business Bank has now received regulatory approval from the Financial Conduct Authority to deliver the British Growth Partnership – which will provide UK pension funds and other institutional investors with access to the Bank’s extensive pipeline of UK venture capital opportunities. 

    The government will continue working with the industry to make sure pension schemes deliver the best possible value for savers — while driving the investment needed to deliver growth and put more money into people’s pockets.

    Yvonne Braun, Director of Policy, Long-Term Savings, Health and Protection at the ABI, said:

    As major investors, the pensions industry already plays a vital role in driving growth in the UK and globally. The Accord formalises the industry’s ambition to invest more in private markets to diversify investments, support innovation and infrastructure, and ensure prosperity.  Investments under the Accord will always be made in savers’ best interests. It is now critical that Government supports the industry’s ambition, by facilitating a pipeline of suitable investment opportunities, tackling barriers to investments, and delivering wider pension reforms effectively.

    Alastair King, Lord Mayor of London, said:

    The Mansion House Accord builds on the strong foundations of the Compact and signals a step change in ambition: more signatories, deeper allocations to private markets, and a clearer commitment to backing UK assets. That includes a renewed focus on revitalising the Alternative Investment Market (AIM) of the London Stock Exchange as well as the Aquis Exchange, which play a critical role in supporting high-growth companies that drive innovation, jobs and productivity. If we want those firms to scale in the UK, we must ensure they have the capital to do so. This is not just about better pension outcomes, it is about building a more dynamic, competitive investment ecosystem. Delivering long-term, sustainable growth is crucial and the City of London Corporation is delighted to have partnered with industry and Government to bring this ambition to life.

    Zoe Alexander, Director of Policy and Advocacy at the PLSA, said:

    UK pension schemes already invest billions in UK growth assets. This accord demonstrates the collective ambition of the DC sector to do even more, as well as its confidence that the UK will provide the right opportunities to invest, consistent with schemes’ fiduciary duty to members. The Government, in its turn, has committed to take action to ensure there is a strong pipeline of investable assets for pension schemes. With everyone playing their part, there is great potential to boost returns for savers while providing vital funding to productive growth areas.

    More information

    • This is a voluntary expression of intent by seventeen signatories. The Mansion House Accord has been jointly led by the ABI, City of London Corporation and the Pensions and Lifetime Savings Association. 

    • Signatories to the new commitment include: Aegon, Aon, Aviva, Legal & General, LifeSight, M&G, Mercer, Natwest Cushon, Nest, NOW: Pensions, Phoenix Group, Royal London, Smart Pension, the People’s Pension, SEI, TPT Retirement Solutions and the Universities Superannuation Scheme (USS). 

    • The signatories to the Accord have stated that £252 billion of assets are subject to the pledge. Based on historical growth rates (which have been halved to reflect a maturing market (17% per annum)) and reflecting further consolidation in the pensions market, this could rise to around £740 billion by 2030.  

    • The £50 billion and £25 billion cash estimates for investment unlocked are indicative and assume current private market investment levels are at 3.5%, of which 40% is UK-based. These are increased to 10% and 50% respectively by 2030 in line with the Accord.   

    • Some providers have indicated they may exceed the private markets investment targets in the Accord, which could lead to additional investment.  

    • Investments will support UK growth sectors, including clean energy infrastructure and innovative small businesses. 

    • Government Actuary Department Analysis from 2024 found that a portfolio with greater exposure to private markets – including infrastructure and private equity – delivered stronger returns than a baseline portfolio comprised largely of overseas equities.   

    • The Pensions Investment Review interim report was published at Mansion House 2024, with the final report due Spring 2025. 
    • Pictures will be published on HMT’s Flickr following the signing event.

    Stakeholder commentary:

    Andy Briggs, Phoenix Group CEO, said:

    This Mansion House Accord will unlock investment in UK private markets while helping deliver better long-term returns and retirements for millions of pension savers. The new commitments have the potential to strengthen the economy by fuelling the growth of British businesses and boosting investment in critical infrastructure.  

    Phoenix Group has already taken a lead by launching Future Growth Capital — the first private market investment manager formed to deliver the commitments made in the initial Mansion House Compact — committing £2.5bn over three years to the UK’s most exciting, innovative and fastest growing companies. The Accord is the natural next step, and we’re proud to play our part in delivering better outcomes for our customers and for the wider society.

    Patrick Heath-Lay, Chief Executive Officer of People’s Partnership, provider of People’s Pension, said:

    People’s Pension has a vital role to play in the exciting, shared vision for the future of the pensions’ industry, which will see bigger, stronger, value-driven schemes that will deliver better value to their members. By signing this Accord, we are reaffirming how seriously we take our commitment to delivering better outcomes, as well as helping to drive UK economic growth.

    David Lane, Chief Executive of TPT Retirement Solutions, said:

    By reaching an agreement with pension providers to invest in UK productive finance in a mutually beneficial way, the Government can achieve its objective and support better outcomes for scheme members. Many pension schemes already invest in productive finance, and most are open to investing more in the UK. Investment in assets such as infrastructure, transportation, housing, venture capital and private markets can play an important role in improving risk-adjusted returns for members while also contributing to economic growth. 

    Meeting the Government’s objectives while also maintaining fiduciary duty and ensuring strong returns for members are not mutually exclusive ambitions. However, hurdles remain around value for money considerations and the availability of suitable investment opportunities. These should be a focus for Government policy to spur more investment. The most pressing issue to deal with is that provider pricing practices leave very little room in the annual management charge for investment fees. There needs to be a shift to a value for money approach that considers the returns from an investment and not just its fees.

    Jelena Croad, Head of LifeSight GB, said:

    Signing up to the Mansion House Accord is a significant step for LifeSight. We believe that private market investments can increase overall returns as part of a diversified portfolio and have already begun investing in this way.  

    Our ability to invest in private markets, without increasing existing fee agreements, showcases our dedication to providing the best possible outcomes for our members. We are excited to be part of this initiative and look forward to contributing to the growth of the economy in which our members live.  

    We are pleased that the government acknowledges the need to increase the pipeline for UK private market investment opportunities. This recognition aligns with our mission to support the growth of innovative firms and sustainable infrastructure within the UK, ultimately enhancing the retirement incomes of millions of UK pension savers.  

    For LifeSight members, these investments are being made as part of our main default funds, ensuring that our members benefit from high-quality investment opportunities.

    Steve Charlton, a member of SPP’s DC Committee and DC Managing Director at SEI, said:

    Due to ongoing collaboration and open dialogue between the industry and the UK government, we have become comfortable with the proposed changes to the Mansion House reforms. This accord demonstrates our collective ambition to have a consolidated workplace pension environment that provides flexibility and choice for pension funds to invest where they see opportunity, whilst balancing their responsibility to members. 

    We welcome the government’s commitment to ensure a good flow of investable opportunities for pension schemes. This mitigates our previous concerns about the risks of high-priced, poor-quality investments in an environment where the originally proposed investable opportunities are scarce. It enables everyone to play their part in helping to deliver better member outcomes and drive economic growth.

    Lorna Blyth, Managing Director – Investment Proposition at Aegon UK, said: 

    Aegon UK is proud to be a signatory of the Mansion House Accord, which aligns with our aim to deliver better long-term outcomes for our pension scheme members. 

    We are committed to ensuring our customers can access and share in the potential growth and success of new, innovative companies as part of diversified portfolios. Leveraging our partnership with the British Business Bank, along with our scale and expertise, we are dedicated to developing investment solutions that improve the retirement outcomes of the millions of members of the defined contribution pension schemes we support. We’ve made significant progress in becoming a DC provider fit for the future – but our journey doesn’t end here. 

    The Accord is a key element of the Government’s growth agenda, alongside other initiatives likely to transform the UK’s DC pensions market. It comes as the conclusions of the Pensions Investment Review are expected imminently and further fundamental changes are expected in the Pension Schemes Bill later this spring. This makes it essential that the Government adopts a pragmatic approach to implementation. Realistic timeframes and a steady supply of high-quality UK investment opportunities across all private asset classes are crucial for ensuring success. This includes collaborating with more organisations such as the British Business Bank to provide access to diverse types of private assets – from private equity to infrastructure, which are all vital for optimising member benefits and developing investment portfolios designed for long term growth.

    Amanda Blanc DBE, Aviva Group Chief Executive Officer, said:

    This is a major opportunity for the pension and investment industry to support UK growth while delivering improved outcomes for pension savers. As a significant investor in private markets, Aviva has recently launched a number of funds to give over four million workplace pension customers even greater opportunity to invest in UK assets, including innovative, early-stage businesses, and we want to do much more.

    Jo Sharples,  CIO, DC Solutions at Aon, said:

    We believe that investing in private assets will benefit pension scheme members by delivering better expected returns over the long-term, ultimately resulting in higher retirement outcomes. The new Mansion House Accord is a great step forward in achieving this and is a fantastic example of how the UK pensions industry can work together to break down barriers to enable greater investment in private assets.

    Updates to this page

    Published 13 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/PHILIPPINES – Rodrigo Duterte is once again mayor of Davao

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    PPCRV

    Davao (Agenzia Fides) – Rodrigo Duterte, the former president of the Philippines, indicted for crimes against humanity before the International Criminal Court, has been elected mayor of Davao, the city on the island of Mindanao where his political career began and where he served as mayor for more than 20 years before being elected president in 2016.Following yesterday’s vote, May 12, in the mid-term elections in the Philippines, which elect the House of Representatives, part of the Senate, and local governments, Duterte was officially declared the winner today, May 13, by the Davao Electoral Council, receiving an overwhelming majority: over 660,000 preferences compared to 80,000 for his opponent, Karlo Nograles, among others, his former spokesman.The position of mayor of Davao is Duterte’s first official post since the end of his term as president. He previously held the office from February 1988 to June 1998, from July 2001 to June 2010, and then from July 2013 to June 2016. The Duterte family has held this office for 34 years, as Duterte’s children succeeded him. Today, his son, Sebastian Duterte, was elected deputy mayor. Duterte’s son entered politics in 2019 and served as mayor from 2022 to 2025. He succeeded his sister Sara, who ran for and was later elected Vice President of the Philippines. She has held the office to this day.The mid-term elections are crucial for the Duterte family, as they consolidate their control over the city of Davao for the next three years. Duterte’s arrest in March was seen as a factor that could have either a negative or positive impact on the family’s image. Duterte’s victory was a testament to his continued popularity among the Filipino people, both locally and nationally. It is worth noting that at least five candidates backed by the Duterte dynasty are running for 12 Senate seats, and according to initial projections, they appear to have a chance of winning.The outcome of the Senate election will be crucial in the case of Vice President Sara Duterte, against whom the Lower House of Parliament has voted to impeach on a range of charges, including misuse of public funds and conspiracy to assassinate President Ferdinand Marcos.The Senate will be asked to confirm or reject the charges in a vote scheduled for next July. Sara Duterte is considered a serious candidate for the 2028 presidential race, but if the Senate confirms the charges, she will be permanently barred from public office. The official results of the mid-term elections will be announced in a week. Meanwhile, the Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Elections, a monitoring body born within the Catholic Church in the Philippines, actively monitors and oversees electoral transparency at the service of citizens and the entire nation. (PA) (Agenzia Fides, 13/5/2025)
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  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/BAHRAIN – Bishop Berardi: Pope Leo XIV, a sign of hope and communion that strengthens our unity with the universal Church

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Tuesday, 13 May 2025

    Avona

    Manama (Agenzia Fides) – “For the Church in the Arabian Peninsula, this moment is an encouragement to continue to live and bear witness to the Gospel, often in silent or hidden ways,” said Bishop Aldo Berardi O.SS.T., Apostolic Vicar of Northern Arabia, on the election of Pope Leo XIV on May 8. “Amidst our unique reality, the Holy Father’s election is a sign of hope and communion that strengthens our unity with the universal Church. His call for peace, dialogue, and encounter,” Bishop Berardi continued, “resonates deeply in our hearts, especially in this region, where these values are not only desired but vital. We are united with the Holy Father in his mission to build bridges, promote reconciliation, call for dialogue, and proclaim the Gospel to the ends of the earth.We reaffirm our commitment to be a living sign of communion and to contribute to the universal mission of the Church from our Vicariate in the heart of the Arabian Peninsula.””The election of Pope Leo XIV confirms the gentle and powerful action of the Holy Spirit, who continues to guide the Church through times of renewal and mission. This moment is truly a grace for the People of God, reminding us that Christ always remains faithful to His promise: ‘I am with you always, to the end of the age’ (Mt 28:20). May Our Lady of Arabia, the Star of the New Evangelization, intercede for him, for the Church, and for all the People of God,” concludes the Apostolic Vicar. (AP) (Agenzia Fides, 13/5/2025)
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  • Blood Money: Pakistan’s Shadow Economy and the Trade that Fuels Terrorism

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    A Hidden Artery that Predates 9/11

    Islamabad has long claimed that terrorist finance seeped in from Afghanistan only after the Twin Towers fell. Yet the sluice gates were prised open a decade earlier. In 1991, then-Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif said he received a “blueprint” from Army Chief General Aslam Beg and ISI Director-General Asad Durrani: fund covert wars by selling heroin overseas, according to NATO’s study Narco-Insecurity, Inc. Sharif maintains he rejected the proposal; the generals deny it; but the episode revealed a mindset in which narcotics were deemed an acceptable coin of statecraft—ten years before 9/11 and far from any Afghan battlefield.

    The prime minister might have disowned the scheme, yet his party was deeply enmeshed in the narcotics trade. Sharif later admitted to The Washington Post in 1994 that ISI-backed drug profits financed covert operations. Through the ISI, the Pakistan Army set up narcotics routes to bankroll terror campaigns in Jammu & Kashmir and Afghanistan.

    Narco-Politics: Heroin as Statecraft

    Until the Taliban imposed a ban in August 2022, Afghanistan produced about 80 per cent of the world’s opium, and the cheapest road to blue water runs through Pakistan’s south-western badlands. United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime research on the “southern route” names Iran and Pakistan as key springboards for Afghan heroin bound for the Gulf and Europe, generating windfalls well into the billions. By cautious estimates, smuggling through Pakistan alone spins off more than a billion US dollars of largely untaxed cash each year. Militants who guard convoys or refine opium into export-grade heroin take their cut; so do civilians and men in uniform who provide protection.

    Moreover, a United Nations report notes that despite the Taliban edict, opium cultivation in 2024 still rose by 19 per cent over the 2023 figure.

    Counterfeit Nation: A War Printed Across the Border

    If heroin yields a harvest within Pakistan, counterfeit rupees sow chaos next door. In May 2019 Nepalese police seized INR 76.7 million in near-perfect Fake Indian Currency Notes (FICN) from Kathmandu trafficker Yunus Ansari and three Pakistani couriers. Investigators traced the notes to Karachi presses reportedly run by Dawood Ibrahim’s crime syndicate under ISI protection.

    The objective, officials say, is two-fold: finance jihadist allies such as Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed, and erode confidence in India’s currency—a variety of “economic jihad” achievable with little more than a printing plate and diplomatic deniability. The ISI funnels FICN through Nepal and Bangladesh via illicit networks that span their borders with India. In February 2015 a Pakistani diplomat was withdrawn from the High Commission in Dhaka after it was proved he was an ISI operative engaged in terror financing and FICN circulation.

    Extortion City: Karachi’s Cash Cow

    Drugs and forged money form the overture; raw fear provides the steady bass line. Bank robberies in Karachi once netted the Pakistani Taliban and allied outfits more than US $800,000 after commanders in the tribal belt ordered urban cells to abandon foreign donations and fund themselves through crime, reports the ‘Combating Terrorism Centre at West Point’ in its analysis, The Pakistani Taliban’s Karachi Network. The raids were the visible crest of a broader wave of “bhatta parchis”—monthly protection money squeezed from transporters, timber merchants and even school principals. Karachi’s takings underwrote bombs that shredded markets in Peshawar and ambushes that bled police in Khyber. The pattern never vanished; it migrated. In March 2025 the outlawed Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan sent letters to sugar-mill owners in Dera Ismail Khan: pay us, not the government, or watch your factories burn.

    Hawala: The Invisible Artery

    Moving cash is effortless when the state prefers the informal. Terrorist groups draw billions of rupees through hawala, cash couriers and black-market currency dealers; narcotics, kidnapping and extortion are core revenue streams. Hawala’s genius lies in its invisibility: one telephone call links a donor in Dubai to a broker in Lahore, and rupees materialise—unrecorded, untaxed, unseen. The same networks move political kick-backs and corporate tax evasion, ensuring institutional silence so long as every stakeholder’s share arrives on time.

    Balochistan and Other Wild Frontiers

    Farther west, a smuggler’s paradise of desert tracks and deep-water coves bankrolls both sides of Balochistan’s low-burn insurgency. The Baloch Liberation Army, analysts say, enjoys “well-funded support mechanism”: levies on coal trucks, tolls on diesel convoys and a system to keep the rebellion alive. Every barrel of fuel taxed on the Makran coast, every tonne of chromite shifted from a lawless quarry — deposits fresh ammunition in the rebels’ accounts—and justifies larger counter-insurgency budgets for the security establishment run by the Pakistani generals. Conflict has become profitable to the state here as well.

    Who Holds the Purse-Strings?

    Official spokesmen of the country blame “rogue elements” or “hostile foreign agencies” for terror finance. Yet evidence places Pakistan’s power elite at every collection point. From the 1991 heroin blueprint to the Jamaat-ud-Dawa and Lashkar-e-Taiba donation buckets in Lahore’s mosques and Jaish-e-Mohammed’s seminary in Bahawalpur, terrorism has long been treated as a strategic hedge, not an existential threat. Only when the guns turned inward did the establishment discover the lexicon of compliance.

    Under international pressure, the Financial Action Task Force removed Pakistan from its grey list in October 2022. Television viewers saw frozen accounts, a few celebrity militants behind bars and choreographed press conferences about hawala raids. Yet these gestures were skin-deep. The deeper arteries still pulse: the Pahalgam terror attack traced back to Pakistan is a reminder, and the world community should move to grey-list Islamabad again.

    Turning Off the Tap—or Pretending To

    Pakistan’s terror economy is no single pipe to be welded shut; it is an underground river fed by narcotics, fake currency, extortion, smuggling and the state’s own cynical bargains. The generals who toyed with heroin, the politicians who wink at hawala donors and the bureaucrats who auction customs posts have all drunk from its waters. Could it end? With an economy edging towards default and a state apparatus that still wields covert terror as policy, the prospect appears bleak. Only an uncompromising audit of power can stem the blood money coursing through Pakistan’s shadow state—yet such scrutiny remains a distant chord in a pseudo-civilian order orchestrated by the army and its ISI handlers.

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Secretary-General’s remarks to the Ministerial Meeting on the Future of Peacekeeping [bilingual, as delivered; scroll down for all-English]

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    Dear Ministers of Foreign Affairs and Defence Affairs of the Federal Republic of Germany, our generous hosts.

     
    Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,
     
    My thanks to Germany for bringing us together at this consequential moment.
     
    This year marks the 80th anniversary of the United Nations.
     
    Our organization was founded on the conviction that peace is possible if we work as one united human family.
     
    That is what our peace operations are about. 
     
    From preventive diplomacy to peacekeeping…
     
    From negotiating ceasefires to helping to implement them…
     
    From electoral support and observer missions to de-mining operations and protection of civilians…
     
    To the focus of today’s Ministerial meeting — peacekeeping.
     
    Excellencies,
     
    UN Blue Helmets are the most globally recognized symbol of the world’s ability to come together to help countries move from conflict to peace.
     
    Peacekeepers hail from every corner of the world.
     
    But they are united in their commitment to peace.
     
    As we meet today, UN peacekeepers are hard at work helping to ensure that ceasefires are respected…
     
    Protecting civilians caught in the line of fire…
     
    Helping provide the conditions for lifesaving aid to flow to those in need…
     
    And laying the foundations for long-term recovery.
     
    In trouble spots around the world, Blue Helmets can mean the difference between life and death.
     
    And they are also a clear demonstration of the power of multilateral action to maintain, achieve and sustain peace.
     
    There is a long list of countries that have achieved durable peace with the support of UN Peacekeeping — including Cambodia, Cote d’Ivoire, El Salvador, Liberia, Namibia, Mozambique, Sierra Leone and Timor Leste.  
     
    Many of these countries now themselves contribute troops. 
     
    At the same time, we recognize that peace comes at a price.
     
    Through the decades, 4,400 peacekeepers have fallen in the line of duty.
     
    Their service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.  
     
    Please join me in a moment of silence to honour all those who lost their lives in the pursuit of peace.
     
    [MOMENT OF SILENCE]
     
    Thank you.
     
    Excellencies,
     
    We owe it to peacekeepers — and the populations they protect — to continue strengthening their ability to answer this call to peace.
     
    And to do so in the face of daunting challenges.
     
    Complex, intertwined and frequently borderless conflicts…
     
    Growing polarization and division around the globe…
     
    Targeting of peacekeepers through deadly misinformation spreading through social media…
     
    Terrorism and transnational crime, which find fertile ground in instability…
     
    The ongoing climate crisis that is exacerbating conflict while leaving more of the planet uninhabitable…
     
    All the continued trampling of international law and international humanitarian law.
     
    As a result, we are now facing the highest number of conflicts since the foundation of the United Nations, and record numbers of people fleeing across borders in search of safety and refuge.
     
    We must recognize that peacekeeping operations are only as effective as the mandates directing them, and can struggle in contexts where political support and clearly defined outcomes and solutions are absent or elusive.
     
    Meanwhile, we see increasing differences of views around how peacekeeping operations should work, under what circumstances, with what mandates they should be deployed, and for how long.
     
    And we face dramatic financial constraints across the board.
     
    We’ve worked to adapt in the face of these challenges.
     
    But we need to do more.
     
    Today, I want to highlight three areas of focus.
     
    First — help us shape peacekeeping operations that are fit for the future.     
     
    The Pact for the Future called for a Review of Peace Operations — including peacekeeping.
     
    The review will examine how we can make peacekeeping operations more adaptable, flexible and resilient — while recognizing the limitations in situations where there is little or no peace to keep.
     
    It will also aim to critically examine the tools we have today and propose concrete recommendations to make them fit for the future.  
     
    Through this review, we must ensure that the United Nations is prepared to deploy peace operations tailored to each individual conflict, while preparing for the challenges of tomorrow.
     
    We can draw inspiration from our UNIFIL operation, which recently developed an adaptation plan to keep peace along the Blue Line, and ensure lifesaving aid can flow to civilians in southern Lebanon.
     
    In the Central African Republic, we see MINUSCA protecting civilians and assisting the government to extend its reach beyond the capital where people are in desperate need. 
     
    In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, despite ongoing fighting, UN Peacekeepers remain in the field, protecting vulnerable populations. 
     
    We’re also seeking efficiencies through partnerships — from Member States to regional and sub-regional organizations, to local communities.
     
    Most important among them is our strong partnership with the African Union.
     
    Security Council resolution 2719 has lifted this partnership to a new level as we work to establish peace enforcement missions under the AU’s responsibility, supported by the United Nations through assessed contributions.
     
    Today, the Review of Peace Operations will need to be informed — and inspired — by your views.
     
    Member States make peacekeeping possible.
     
    They must lead the way as we strengthen it for the future.
     
    Second — as we make our operations more adaptable and flexible, we need to do the same in the use of our resources.

    Peace operations can only succeed when backed by robust mandates and clear, predictable and sustained contributions, both financial and logistical. 
     
    But these are tough times for the financing of our work across the board.
     
    Peacekeeping is no exception.
     
    It is crucial that we are able to use the increasingly limited resources we have — and use them well.
     
    That requires more flexible rules and processes.
     
    This means updating our approach to abolishing or establishing positions, and working with troop-contributing countries to ensure we can deliver.
     
    It means working with Member States and the UN Security Council to ensure that any new mandates are prioritized and achievable with the resources available and with a clear exit strategy.
     
    And it means driving efficiencies and improvements across our work in light of the continued funding challenges we face.
     
    Our Review of Peace Operations will work hand-in-hand with our UN80 initiative, to ensure we maximize efficiencies wherever possible, supported at every step by Member States.
     
    We look forward to your governments’ support and ideas as we tackle these challenges together.

    Third — we need your political support, including through the pledges you will make tomorrow.

    Peace operations cannot succeed in the absence of a political solution.

    Together we need to mobilize greater support for political solutions across our peacekeeping missions. 

    Pursuing these political solutions requires adequate means of delivering our operations — including unified political support from Member States, strong leadership, well-trained troops, equipment and technology.

    These can strengthen our operations, and make a real difference in people’s lives.

    And it requires the support of all Member States to ensure the safety and security of United Nations peacekeepers in the field, and the full implementation of the relevant privileges and immunities of the Organization and its personnel.

    We are deeply grateful for the support and for the concrete pledges so many of you will announce here tomorrow.

    Excellencies,

    With a budget shared by all 193 Member States and representing a tiny fraction of global military spending — around one half of one per cent — UN Peacekeeping remains one of the most effective and cost-effective tools to build international peace and security.

    But it’s only as strong as Member States’ commitment to it.

    Unfortunately, peacekeeping operations have been facing serious liquidity problems. 
      
    It is absolutely essential that all Member States respect their financial obligations, paying their contributions in full and on time. 

    Now more than ever, the world needs the United Nations.

    And the United Nations needs peacekeeping that is fully equipped for today’s realities and tomorrow’s challenges. 

    Together, let’s shape the UN peacekeeping operations that the challenges require, that Member States demand, and that our peacekeepers and the people they support need and deserve.
    Thank you.
     

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI: Delinea Begins FedRAMP High Authorization Process for Secret Server

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN FRANCISCO, May 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Delinea, a pioneering provider of solutions for securing human and machine identities through centralized authorization, has initiated the FedRAMP High authorization process for Secret Server, an industry-leading Privileged Access Management (PAM) solution. Delivered in partnership with UberEther, Secret Server’s pending designation will enable Delinea to further its commitment to securing the public sector through modern, enterprise-grade PAM capabilities.

    FedRAMP High is reserved for best-in-class solutions that safeguard the U.S. government’s most sensitive, unclassified data in any cloud environment. Achieving this certification will ensure Delinea’s Secret Server meets the most stringent security and risk management standards required by U.S. federal agencies.

    “We’re thrilled to partner with Delinea to deliver a FedRAMP High Authorized PAM solution tailored to the U.S. federal government,” said Matt Topper, CEO at UberEther. “With identity-based attacks on the rise, this collaboration allows us to tackle the evolving security challenges of the public sector head-on. Together, we’re redefining identity security with innovative, flexible solutions designed to protect mission-critical cloud environments.”

    Delinea has teamed up with UberEther as a strategic deployment partner, combining seamless PAM capabilities with secure infrastructure expertise. Secret Server is designed to help organizations protect critical access and eliminate identity-based threats by enabling IT administrators to:

    • Store privileged credentials in a centralized, encrypted vault;
    • Uncover all service, application, administrator, and root accounts;
    • Automate provisioning, enforce password complexity, and rotate credentials;
    • Delegate access through RBAC, workflows, and approvals for third parties; and
    • Implement session launching, proxies, monitoring, and recording.

    “Identity has become one of the primary attack vectors in the age of AI. As federal agencies modernize their environments to meet Zero Trust principles and government mandates, they need security partners they can trust to support the mission,” said Art Gilliland, CEO at Delinea. “UberEther has been a fantastic partner and shares our unwavering commitment to operating and developing solutions with the highest levels of security. Together, we’ll deliver innovative identity security solutions that meet FedRAMP High standards, demonstrating our dedication to the U.S. government.”

    Delinea has been named a leader in the top five leading analyst reports for PAM, including Gartner, Forrester, KuppingerCole, EMA, and Frost & Sullivan. To learn more about Delinea’s Secret Server solution and sign up for a demo, visit: https://delinea.com/products/secret-server

    About Delinea

    Delinea is a pioneer in securing human and machine identities through intelligent, centralized authorization, empowering organizations to seamlessly govern their interactions across the modern enterprise. Leveraging AI-powered intelligence, Delinea’s leading cloud-native Identity Security Platform applies context throughout the entire identity lifecycle – across cloud and traditional infrastructure, data, SaaS applications, and AI. It is the only platform that enables you to discover all identities – including workforce, IT administrator, developers, and machines – assign appropriate access levels, detect irregularities, and respond to threats in real-time. With deployment in weeks, not months, 90% fewer resources to manage than the nearest competitor, and a 99.995% uptime, the Delinea Platform delivers robust security and operational efficiency without compromise. Learn more about Delinea on LinkedIn, Twitter, and YouTube.   

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Why do cuts to Medicaid matter for Americans over 65? 2 experts on aging explain why lives are at stake

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Jane Tavares, Senior Research Fellow and Lecturer of Gerontology, UMass Boston

    Medicaid provides health insurance coverage for more than 82 million Americans. FatCamera/E+ via Getty Images

    Republicans in Congress intend to cut about US$880 billion in federal health care spending.

    One of their primary targets is Medicaid. That government program covers 82 million Americans with health insurance. Most of the people enrolled in the program are low income, have disabilities, or both.

    Medicaid, jointly funded by the federal government and the states, is also the biggest funder in the U.S. of long-term care services, whether they are delivered in the patient’s home, another location where they spend part of their day or a nursing home. That makes it particularly important for older adults and those with disabilities. All states must meet the basic federal guidelines for Medicaid coverage. But 41 states have opted to take advantage of the Affordable Care Act provision that expanded eligibility to cover more people under the program.

    We are gerontology researchers who study health and financial well-being in later life. We’ve been analyzing what the potential impacts of Medicaid cuts might be.

    While the debate about how to reduce the budget focuses largely on dollars and cents, we believe that cutting federal spending on Medicaid would harm the health and well-being of millions of Americans by reducing their access to care. In our view, it’s also likely that any savings achieved in the short term would be smaller than the long-term increase in health care costs born by the federal government, the states and patients – including for many Americans who are 65 and older.

    Republican lawmakers are weighing different strategies that could cut federal Medicaid spending.

    Weak track record

    Wary of backlash from their constituents, Republicans have agreed on a strategy that would largely cut Medicaid spending in a roundabout way.

    Previous efforts by the GOP in some states, such as imposing work requirements for some people to get Medicaid benefits, have not greatly reduced costs. That’s largely because there are relatively few people enrolled in the Medicaid program who are physically able to be employed and aren’t already in the workforce. Nor have past efforts to reduce fraud, waste and abuse led to significant savings.

    According to widespread media reports, Republicans are considering changes that would cut the amount of money that the federal government reimburses states for what they spend on Medicaid.

    In May 2025, the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office estimated that 8.6 million Americans would lose their health insurance coverage should the GOP proposal become law.

    Historically, states have dealt with budget cuts by reducing their payments to health care providers, limiting eligibility or restricting benefits. These reductions all particularly affected home- and community-based services that many disabled and older adults rely on.

    About 3 in 4 of the people with Medicaid coverage who receive long-term care through the program get that care at home, in their communities or both, rather than residing in a nursing home. States save an estimated 26 cents for every dollar spent on those services delivered outside nursing homes.

    Losing coverage can be harmful for your health

    We recently analyzed data from a nationally representative study of approximately 6,000 people who had Medicaid coverage but lost it when they turned age 65 because their income exceeded 100% of the federal poverty level. In 2025, that cutoff is about $15,560 for a single person and $21,150 for a couple.

    Medicaid income eligibility generally drops from 138% to 100% of the federal poverty level at age 65 once Medicare becomes a person’s primary health insurer.

    The people who participated in the study had lost their Medicaid coverage upon turning 65 between 1998 and 2020. Our team followed the experiences of these participants over a 10-year period starting at age 65 to see how they fared compared with people who continue to be enrolled in Medicaid after their 65th birthday.

    What we found was both surprising and disturbing.

    Fewer activities of daily living

    Over the decade following that milestone, the people who lost their Medicaid coverage had more chronic conditions and could perform fewer activities of daily living, such as bathing and getting dressed, without any assistance as compared with those who still had Medicaid coverage. In addition, they were twice as likely to experience depression and be in fair or poor health.

    As people’s health worsened, they also went to the hospital more often and stayed there longer. They also used outpatient surgery services more frequently.

    These services are particularly expensive for the health care system. Depending on the service, it may also be costly for patients. Unlike the comprehensive coverage of Medicaid, the Medicare program fully covers only inpatient hospitalizations, short-term nursing facility care, hospice, some short-term home care, annual wellness visits, vaccines and some basic preventive care. Beyond that, Medicare requires the payment of premiums to help with uncovered services that can also include deductibles and copays.

    This arrangement can lead to significant out-of-pocket costs that make health care hard for low-income older adults to afford unless they have both Medicare and Medicaid coverage.

    We also found that older people who lost Medicaid coverage were less likely to see their primary care physician for routine and follow-up care, despite being enrolled in Medicare. This explains in part why they are going to the hospital more often, likely avoiding routine health care that may incur out-of-pocket costs and eventually utilizing Medicare-covered hospital care when needed.

    In short, we found that exiting the Medicaid program upon turning 65 actually leads to an increase in the use of some of the most expensive health care services, such as inpatient hospitalization and outpatient surgery. So although Medicaid may no longer pay for these costs, the rest of the health care system does.

    Just under 90% of older adults enrolled in Medicare have some kind of supplemental coverage that helps them pay for services that the program doesn’t cover. For 16% of the people with Medicare coverage, Medicaid covers those additional health care costs. The rest of that nearly 90% obtain supplemental coverage from private insurance companies or are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan that’s run by a private company instead of the government.

    However, 11% of Americans covered by Medicare don’t have any additional coverage. It is likely that those who lost Medicaid benefits at age 65 may not be able to afford any other supplemental coverage options and fall into this group.

    People who lose Medicaid coverage may die sooner

    One of our more troubling findings was that people who lost Medicaid coverage at age 65 were 14% more likely to die within the next 10 years than were those who kept their coverage in addition to gaining Medicare coverage. This was true even though the people who lost their Medicaid access tended to start out in better health.

    Roughly 12 million Americans are enrolled in both Medicare and Medicaid today. Much is at stake for them and other low-income people as Congress considers making major changes to the program to cut federal spending on it.

    For some Americans, it’s a matter of life and death. For others, it’s a matter of healthy versus unhealthy aging that leads to costlier health care not just for themselves but for the U.S. as a whole.

    Jane Tavares receives funding from the RRF Foundation for Aging.

    Marc Cohen receives funding from the RRF Foundation for Aging.

    – ref. Why do cuts to Medicaid matter for Americans over 65? 2 experts on aging explain why lives are at stake – https://theconversation.com/why-do-cuts-to-medicaid-matter-for-americans-over-65-2-experts-on-aging-explain-why-lives-are-at-stake-254256

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Trump guts low-income energy assistance as summer heat descends and electricity prices rise

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Conor Harrison, Associate Professor of Economic Geography, University of South Carolina

    Cities like Houston get high humidity in addition to the heat, making summer almost unbearable without cooling. Brandon Bell/Getty Images

    The U.S. is headed into what forecasters expect to be one of the hottest summers on record, and millions of people across the country will struggle to pay their power bills as temperatures and energy costs rise.

    A 2023 national survey found that nearly 1 in 4 Americans were unable to pay their full energy bill for at least one month, and nearly 1 in 4 reported that they kept their homes at unsafe temperatures to save money. By 2025, updated polling indicated nearly 3 in 4 Americans are worried about rising energy costs.

    Conservative estimates suggest that utilities shut off power to over 3 million U.S. households each year because the residents cannot pay their bills.

    This problem of high energy prices isn’t lost on the Trump administration.

    On the first day of his second term in 2025, President Donald Trump declared a national energy emergency by executive order, saying that “high energy prices … devastate Americans, particularly those living on low- and fixed incomes.”

    Secretary of Energy Christopher Wright raised concerns about utility disconnections and outlined a mission to “shrink that number, with the target of zero.”

    Yet, the administration’s 2026 budget proposal zeros out funding for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, or LIHEAP, the federal program that administers funding to help low-income households pay their utility bills. And on April 1, 2025, the administration laid off the entire staff of the LIHEAP office.

    During the hottest periods, even nighttime temperatures might not drop below 90 in Phoenix. Without air conditioning, homes can become dangerously hot.
    Patrick T. Fallon/AFP via Getty Images

    Many people already struggle to cobble together enough help from various sources to pay their power bills. As researchers who study energy insecurity, we believe gutting the federal office responsible for administering energy bill assistance will make it even harder for Americans to make ends meet.

    The high stakes of energy affordability

    We work with communities in South Carolina and Tennessee where many residents struggle to heat and cool their homes.

    We see how high energy prices force people to make dangerous trade-offs. Low-income households often find themselves choosing whether to buy necessities, pay for child care or pay their utility bills.

    One elderly person we spoke with for our research, Sarah, explained that she routinely forgoes buying medications in order to pay her utility bill. Another research participant who connects low-income families to energy bill assistance in Tennessee said: “I’ve gone into these homes, and it’s so hot. Your eyes roll in the back of your head. It’s like you can’t breathe. How do you sit in here? It’s just unreal.”

    Unfortunately, these stories are increasingly common, especially in low-income communities and communities of color.

    Electricity prices are predicted to rise with worsening climate change: More frequent heat waves and extreme weather events drive up demand and put pressure on the grid. Furthermore, rising energy demand from data centers – supercharged by the increasing energy use by artificial intelligence – is accelerating price increases.

    Shrinking resources for assistance

    LIHEAP, created in 1981, provides funding to states as block grants to help low-income families pay their utility bills. In fiscal year 2023, the program distributed US$6.1 billion in energy assistance, helping some 5.9 million households avoid losing power connections.

    The program’s small staff played critical roles in disbursing this money, providing implementation guidelines, monitoring state-level fund management and tracking and evaluating program effectiveness.

    A long line of utility customers wait to apply for help from the Low-Income Energy Assistance Program in Trenton, N.J., in 2011. In 2023, around 6 million households benefited from LIHEAP.
    AP Photo/Mel Evans

    LIHEAP has historically prioritized heating assistance in cold-weather states over cooling assistance in warmer states. However, recent research shows a need to revisit the allocation formula to address the increasing need for air conditioning. The layoffs removed staff who could direct this work.

    It is unlikely that other sources of funding can fill in the gaps if states do not receive LIHEAP funds from the federal government. The program’s funding has never been high enough to meet the need. In 2020, LIHEAP provided assistance to just 16% of eligible households.

    Our research has found that, in practice, many households rely on a range of local nonprofits, faith-based organizations and informal networks of family and friends to help them pay their bills and keep the power on.

    For example, a research participant named Deborah reported that when faced with a utility shut-off, she “drove from church to church to church” in search of assistance. United Way in South Carolina received over 16,000 calls from people seeking help to pay their utility bills in 2023.

    These charitable services are an important lifeline for many, especially in the communities we study in the South. However, research has shown that faith-based programs do not have the reach of public programs.

    Without LIHEAP, the limited funds provided by nonprofits and the personal connections that people patch together will be stretched even thinner, especially as other charitable services, such as food banks, also face funding cuts.

    What’s ahead

    The $4.1 billion that Congress allocated to LIHEAP for the 2025 fiscal year, which ends Sept. 30, has already been disbursed. Going forward, however, cuts to LIHEAP staff affect its ability to respond to growing need. Congress now has to decide if it will kill the program’s future funding as well.

    Maricopa County in Arizona, home to Phoenix, illustrates what’s at stake. Annual heat-related deaths have risen 1,000% there in the past decade, from 61 to 602. Hundreds of these deaths occurred indoors.

    Cooling becomes essential during Arizona’s extreme summers. Maricopa County, home to Phoenix, reported more than 600 heat-related deaths in 2024.
    AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin

    We believe gutting LIHEAP puts the goal of energy affordability for all Americans – and Americans’ lives – in jeopardy. Until more affordable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, can be scaled up, an expansion of federal assistance programs is needed, not a contraction.

    Increasing the reach and funding of LIHEAP is one option. Making home weatherization programs more effective is another.

    Governments could also require utilities to forgive past-due bills and end utility shut-offs during the hottest and coldest months. About two dozen states currently have rules to prevent shut-offs during the worst summer heat.

    For now, the cuts mean more pressure on nonprofits, faith-based organizations and informal networks. Looking ahead to another exceptionally hot summer, we can only hope that cuts to LIHEAP staff don’t foreshadow a growing yet preventable death toll.

    Etienne Toussaint, a law professor at the University of South Carolina, and Ann Eisenberg, a law professor at West Virginia University, contributed to this article.

    Conor Harrison receives funding from the National Science Foundation and the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation.

    Elena Louder receives funding from the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation.

    Nikki Luke receives funding from the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation. She previously worked at the U.S. Department of Energy.

    Shelley Welton receives funding from the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation.

    – ref. Trump guts low-income energy assistance as summer heat descends and electricity prices rise – https://theconversation.com/trump-guts-low-income-energy-assistance-as-summer-heat-descends-and-electricity-prices-rise-256194

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI: Aemetis Biogas Signs $27 Million Agreement with Centuri to Build Gas Cleanup Systems for 15 Dairy Digesters

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CUPERTINO, Calif., May 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Aemetis, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMTX), a renewable natural gas and renewable fuels company focused on low and negative carbon intensity renewable fuels, announced today that its Aemetis Biogas subsidiary has signed a $27 million equipment agreement with Centuri Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: CTRI), a $2.6 billion infrastructure services contractor, to build biogas cleanup systems for 15 dairy digesters.

    This signed agreement, and expected future agreements with Centuri, will enable Aemetis Biogas to rapidly scale up the construction of dairy digesters to produce renewable natural gas (RNG) for a total of 50 dairies that have already been signed by Aemetis Biogas. This summer, 16 dairies are scheduled to be operating in the Aemetis Biogas Central Digester Project near Modesto, California, with 36 miles of biogas pipeline and a central biogas-to-RNG production facility already in operation delivering RNG into the PG&E utility gas pipeline.

    “Our expanding strategic relationship with the experienced team at Centuri ranges from this agreement for biogas equipment to plans for construction management and pipe assembly to build upcoming energy efficiency, carbon sequestration and other projects,” stated Eric McAfee, Chairman and CEO of Aemetis. “We expect that Centuri will play a key role in building Aemetis projects on time and on budget, given their expertise in constructing industrial facilities, large scale gas pipeline projects. and utility electrical systems.”

    “Centuri’s vast utility distribution expertise includes a growing number of renewable natural gas projects in multiple geographies, making the work with Aemetis a natural fit,” stated Dylan Hradek, President of US Gas at Centuri. “We expect to add significant value to upcoming projects at the Riverbank site and to support their ongoing work and plans to deliver innovative, renewable energy solutions across their portfolio.”

    Aemetis renewable energy and energy efficiency projects include the expansion of dairy renewable natural gas production to generate more than 1 million MMBtu of renewable natural gas from 50 dairies that have signed agreements; the Keyes ethanol plant mechanical vapor recompression system that is expected to generate $32 million of increased annual cash flow starting in 2026; the Riverbank carbon sequestration project to inject 1.4 million tons of CO2 per year underground; the 78 million gallon per year sustainable aviation fuel and renewable diesel plant which has already received the Authority To Construct air permits and the other key approvals; and negotiations underway for other large scale industrial and electrical projects at the Riverbank site.

    About Aemetis

    Headquartered in Cupertino, California, Aemetis is a renewable natural gas and renewable fuel company focused on the operation, acquisition, development and commercialization of innovative technologies that replace petroleum products and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Founded in 2006, Aemetis is operating and actively expanding a California biogas digester network and pipeline system to convert dairy waste gas into Renewable Natural Gas. Aemetis owns and operates a 65 million gallon per year ethanol production facility in California’s Central Valley near Modesto that supplies about 80 dairies with animal feed. Aemetis owns and operates an 80 million gallon per year production facility on the East Coast of India producing high quality distilled biodiesel and refined glycerin. Aemetis is developing a sustainable aviation fuel and renewable diesel fuel biorefinery in California, renewable hydrogen, and hydroelectric power to produce low carbon intensity renewable jet and diesel fuel. For additional information about Aemetis, please visit www.aemetis.com.

    About Centuri

    Centuri Holdings, Inc. is a strategic utility infrastructure services company that partners with regulated utilities to build and maintain the energy network that powers millions of homes and businesses across the United States and Canada.

    Safe Harbor Statement

    This news release contains forward-looking statements, including statements regarding assumptions, projections, expectations, targets, intentions or beliefs about future events or other statements that are not historical facts. Forward-looking statements include, without limitation, projections of financial results in 2025 and future years; statements relating to the development, engineering, financing, construction and operation of the Aemetis ethanol, biogas, SAF and renewable diesel, and carbon sequestration facilities; our ability to promote, develop, finance, and construct facilities to produce biogas, renewable fuels, and biochemicals; and statements about future market prices and results of government actions. Words or phrases such as “anticipates,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “believes,” “estimates,” “expects,” “intends,” “plans,” “predicts,” “projects,” “showing signs,” “targets,” “view,” “will likely result,” “will continue” or similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based on current assumptions and predictions and are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties. Actual results or events could differ materially from those set forth or implied by such forward-looking statements and related assumptions due to certain factors, including, without limitation, competition in the ethanol, biodiesel and other industries in which we operate, commodity market risks including those that may result from current weather conditions, financial market risks, customer adoption, counter-party risks, risks associated with changes to federal policy or regulation, and other risks detailed in our reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including our Annual Reports on Form 10-K, and in our other filings with the SEC. We are not obligated, and do not intend, to update any of these forward-looking statements at any time unless an update is required by applicable securities laws.

    Company Investor Relations
    Media Contact:
    Todd Waltz
    (408) 213-0940
    investors@aemetis.com

    External Investor Relations
    Contact:
    Kirin Smith
    PCG Advisory Group
    (646) 863-6519
    ksmith@pcgadvisory.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Bitget Launches Starlink Program to Bridge the Digital Divide in Philippine Island Communities

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SIARGAO, Philippines, May 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget, the leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company, has launched its Starlink Program, bringing high-speed satellite internet to remote islands in the Philippines in a bold move to tackle digital inequality. The initiative, which kicked off in Siargao’s Espoir School of Life and Barangay Pitogo, addresses chronic connectivity gaps that have long hindered education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. By deploying Starlink’s cutting-edge technology, Bitget aims to empower these communities with reliable internet access, laying the groundwork for future blockchain education and financial inclusion.  

    For years, Siargao’s residents have relied on fragile microwave radio connections, leaving them vulnerable to frequent outages, slow speeds, and exclusion from the digital economy. Schools like Espoir, which serves underprivileged children, struggle with offline-only learning, while villages like Barangay Pitogo face isolation due to unreliable communication networks. 

    “Without stable internet, entire communities are locked out of modern education, remote work, and even basic services like telemedicine. This isn’t just about connectivity, it’s about equity. Internet access shouldn’t be a privilege, it’s the foundation for everything from education to decentralized finance. We’re building doors to the digital world one island at a time,” said Vugar Usi Zade, COO at Bitget.

    The program’s first phase includes a Starlink hardware installation at Espoir School and Barangay Pitogo’s public school. This will provide six months of high-speed satellite internet, enabling access to online curricula, teacher training, and e-governance tools. With this, Bitget plans to provide long-term support through $10M Blockchain 4 Youth and $10M Blockchain 4 Her initiatives, which will introduce blockchain literacy and digital finance skills to students and women-led cooperatives. The total investment of 155,400 Philippine pesos, which covers hardware, subscriptions, and logistics. A modest cost for transformative impact. 

    Bitget’s initiative shows a growing recognition in the crypto industry: Adoption starts with access. By addressing infrastructure barriers first, the exchange is creating a replicable model for other underserved regions. Future phases could expand to neighboring islands, leveraging partnerships with local NGOs and government units. 

    The Starlink kits will go live in May, with Bitget documenting the rollout through impact reports and community stories. For Espoir’s students, the change will be immediate: interactive lessons, global collaborations, and soon blockchain workshops. For Barangay Pitogo, it’s a leap toward resilient communication during typhoon seasons. 

    As Bitget scales this program, the message is clear: crypto’s future isn’t just about markets, it’s about people. And sometimes, changing lives starts with something as simple as an internet signal.

    About Bitget

    Established in 2018, Bitget is the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company. Serving over 100 million users in 150+ countries and regions, the Bitget exchange is committed to helping users trade smarter with its pioneering copy trading feature and other trading solutions, while offering real-time access to Bitcoin price, Ethereum price, and other cryptocurrency prices. Formerly known as BitKeep, Bitget Wallet is a world-class multi-chain crypto wallet that offers an array of comprehensive Web3 solutions and features including wallet functionality, token swap, NFT Marketplace, DApp browser, and more.

    Bitget is at the forefront of driving crypto adoption through strategic partnerships, such as its role as the Official Crypto Partner of the World’s Top Football League, LALIGA, in EASTERN, SEA and LATAM markets, as well as a global partner of Turkish National athletes Buse Tosun Çavuşoğlu (Wrestling world champion), Samet Gümüş (Boxing gold medalist) and İlkin Aydın (Volleyball national team), to inspire the global community to embrace the future of cryptocurrency.

    For more information, visit: Website | Twitter | Telegram | LinkedIn | Discord | Bitget Wallet

    For media inquiries, please contact: media@bitget.com

    Risk Warning: Digital asset prices are subject to fluctuation and may experience significant volatility. Investors are advised to only allocate funds they can afford to lose. The value of any investment may be impacted, and there is a possibility that financial objectives may not be met, nor the principal investment recovered. Independent financial advice should always be sought, and personal financial experience and standing carefully considered. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. Bitget accepts no liability for any potential losses incurred. Nothing contained herein should be construed as financial advice. For further information, please refer to our Terms of Use.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a78ae617-7c0a-42a6-8d66-fc3393c512ca

    The MIL Network –

  • South Africa name Rabada in World Test Championship final squad

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (2)

    South Africa has included Kagiso Rabada in their squad for the World Test Championship final against Australia at Lord’s from June 11-15, following the fast bowler’s return from a suspension having tested positive for a banned substance.

    Rabada spent a month on the sidelines at the Indian Premier League after testing positive for a recreational drug at this year’s SA20 competition.

    He is likely to lead the fast-bowling attack with seamers Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi and Dane Paterson also in the squad. Keshav Maharaj and Senuran Muthusamy are the two specialist spin options.

    Captain Temba Bavuma heads the list of batters along with Aiden Markram, Tony de Zorzi, Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs and David Bedingham, while Kyle Verreynne is the specialist wicket-keeper in the squad.

    “Over the past 18 months, we’ve worked hard to build a competitive red-ball unit,” coach Shukri Conrad said in a statement from Cricket South Africa.

    “A key part of our success has been consistency in selection, and we’ve stuck with the core group of players who have been part of this WTC cycle. We’ve selected a balanced squad for the conditions we expect at Lord’s.”

    South Africa finished top of the WTC table to earn their place in the final. They will play a four-day warm-up fixture against Zimbabwe in Arundel from June 3-6.

    South Africa squad:

    Temba Bavuma (captain), David Bedingham, Corbin Bosch, Tony de Zorzi, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, Wiaan Mulder, Senuran Muthusamy, Lungi Ngidi, Dane Paterson, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs and Kyle Verreynne.

    –Reuters

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Community dental scheme to launch

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Department of Health announced today that the Community Dental Support Programme (CDSP) will be launched on May 26 to provide additional dental services to underprivileged patients with financial difficulties.

    The programme is in addition to existing dental grants under the Comprehensive Social Security Assistance (CSSA) Scheme and emergency dental services provided by government dental clinics.

    The CDSP is expected to provide service capacity that is at least double that of current general public sessions at government dental clinics – in other words, about 40,000 participants every year.

    CDSP service users must hold a Hong Kong identity card, be enrolled in the Electronic Health Record Sharing System, and be current beneficiaries or recipients of the Old Age Living Allowance, the Community Care Service Voucher Scheme for the Elderly, Integrated Home Care Services, Enhanced Home & Community Care Services, or Home Support Services. They can also be Hospital Authority patients who have been given a Medical Fee Waiver by the authority.

    Each service user can apply for subsidised dental services, encompassing preventive and curative oral health and dental care services, once every 180 days.

    Subject to dental assessment, service users will be offered subsidised services including oral health assessments, medications for dental pain relief, X-ray examinations, and dental fillings or extractions, with each tooth counting towards a “Teeth Filling/Extraction Quota”.

    Each service user is required to pay an administration fee to providers of $50 for each tooth filled or extracted, up to a maximum fee of $150. Treatment for a maximum of three teeth will be provided every 180 days.

    If a service user receives Integrated Home Care Services, Enhanced Home & Community Care Services or Home Support Services, or is eligible under the Medical Fee Waiver scheme, the Government will subsidise the administration fee in full.

    To date, 32 non-governmental organisations are participating in the CDSP, providing nearly 80 dental service points across all 18 districts of Hong Kong.

    Eligible patients can visit the dedicated webpage, where they can select and contact the clinic of their choice to make an appointment for government-subsidised dental care services on or after May 26. 

    Additionally, the Department of Health will increase GP sessions by nearly 30% from June onwards and introduce enhancements to the online registration system for dental general public sessions at the end of June. Details will be announced in due course. 

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New tech to make rail replacement travel more accessible

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    New tech to make rail replacement travel more accessible

    Four innovative projects set to share £800,000 to improve accessible information for passengers using rail replacement coaches.

    • four projects selected to help roll out accessible information on board rail replacement coaches
    • £800,000 will be allocated across the 4 projects to develop new onboard information technology
    • part of the government’s Plan for Change, aimed at delivering bold ambitions to improve transport accessibility

    Today’s announcement (13 May 2025) will break down the barriers to opportunity – as part of our Plan for Change – by improving accessible travel on rail replacement coaches for disabled people, thanks to £800,000 of government funding for new technology innovations – including a 3D animated avatar that allows passengers to ask questions through voice interaction or access audio via apps or QR codes.

    Local Transport Minister Simon Lightwood has today confirmed the funding will go to 4 selected projects which will help to roll out audible and visible information for passengers onboard coach services – transforming public services and driving efficiency.

    While many buses in the UK already offer these features, coach services used for rail replacement often lack the technology needed to deliver the same standard of information. This can leave passengers, especially those with visual or cognitive impairments, without the support they need to travel independently and confidently.

    The new technology will offer flexible solutions that work in different vehicles, helping operators meet the requirements set out in the Public Service Vehicles (Accessible Information) Regulations 2023.

    The Department for Transport (DfT) introduced the Public Service Vehicles (Accessible Information) Regulations 2023, requiring local bus and coach services to provide clear and accessible audible and visible onboard information. This includes details such as the route, direction of travel and upcoming stops.

    The projects were selected following the competition run by Innovate UK, which combined established solutions with newer technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI) and a new Bluetooth feature, Auracast, to deliver real-time information in a variety of accessible formats. These projects will be completed by March 2026.

    As part of the government’s Plan for Change, these projects will enable more people to travel independently for work, education, and leisure.

    Making transport more accessible and inclusive not only benefits disabled passengers, but also helps unlock wider economic benefits – from increasing workforce participation to boosting local tourism and supporting businesses across the country.

    Local Transport Minister, Simon Lightwood, said:

    There are around 16 million disabled people in the UK and many depend on coach services to get around. It’s vital that these services provide clear, accessible information for everyone, particularly on rail replacement journeys where the route and stops can change.

    To help rail replacement coach operators make this transition smoothly, we are providing £800,000 of funding as part of the government’s Plan for Change to explore technology that helps all passengers, regardless of their needs, travel with confidence and independence. Public transport should be accessible for all and we’re committed to making that a reality – clearing away barriers to growth.

    This government is securing our future through the Plan for Change by making transport more accessible through initiatives like Access for All, which has delivered step-free access at over 260 stations, and new measures in the Bus Services (No. 2) Bill. The bill will require disability awareness and assistance training for drivers and staff providing direct assistance to passengers and require local authorities to pay regard to new bus stop safety and accessibility guidance.

    Rail media enquiries

    Media enquiries 0300 7777878

    Switchboard 0300 330 3000

    Updates to this page

    Published 13 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Increase in admissions at MSF centre specialised in treating people for extreme violence in Mexico City

    Source: Médecins Sans Frontières –

    Mexico City – The number of mental health consultations and new patients admitted to the Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) Comprehensive Care Centre (CAI, in Spanish) for victims of extreme violence, based in Mexico City, Mexico, has increased significantly in the last six months. MSF attributes the increase to continued violence at the hands of various armed groups — both organised crime groups and security forces — along the migration route through Central America and Mexico, fuelled by a slew of harsh changes to immigration policies by the United States (US) and other governments in the region. As needs increase, we urge public entities and NGOs to strengthen assistance to people in Mexico who have been victims of violence and are seeking safety.  

    In the first quarter of 2025, MSF teams provided 485 individual mental health sessions to patients at the CAI, including to migrants in transit through or stranded in Mexico and Mexican citizens. This represents a 36% increase compared with the number of sessions provided in the three months prior. Throughout 2024, MSF provided an average of 300 to 350 individual mental health sessions each quarter. Between January and March this year, the most common conditions people presented with were post-traumatic stress disorder (48%) and depression (39%), as well as acute stress reactions (7%), grief, and anxiety. 

    “Since the end of January, we have treated people with severe mental health issues due in large part to the impact of restrictive immigration policies recently implemented by the US and other governments in the region,” says Joaquim Guinart, coordinator of the CAI.  

    48 %

    48%

    Post-traumatic stress disorder

    39 %

    39%

    Depression

    7 %

    7%

    Acute stress reactions

    A flurry of executive actions taken by US President Donald Trump in January included the declaration of a national emergency at the US southern border—effectively militarising immigration enforcement— and the temporary suspension of refugee admissions to the US. 

    Even before the executive orders were issued, the new administration took swift action to shut down the CBP One app that, despite its flaws, was the only way to apply for asylum at the US southern border. The impact of these restrictions is further compounded by funding cuts to humanitarian programmes, severely affecting access to shelter and basic healthcare needs. 

    “These abrupt changes have left many people trapped in legal limbo, with no pathway to seek asylum and no access to essential services or protection,” says Guinart.  

    These combined measures further erode access to asylum and increase the risks for migrants—particularly children and other vulnerable groups—as people are pushed towards using increasingly dangerous routes and methods to seek asylum or trapped in unsafe locations where they are at heightened risk of kidnappings, extortion, and sexual violence.

    The CAI opened in 2016 to provide comprehensive care for survivors of extreme violence and torture, including medical care, psychology sessions, and physical therapy, among other services. The goal is to help patients regain their autonomy and heal physically and emotionally. Most people receive three to six months of treatment, and there are between 30-50 patients admitted at any one time. In 2024, MSF teams identified 4,500 victims of moderate to extreme violence through our projects in different points of attention in Mexico or through partners. We admitted 186 to the CAI for comprehensive treatment, others were provided care through mobile and fixed clinics or referred to other organisations for care.  

    Although most patients admitted are migrants, since the last quarter of 2024, the CAI has also focused on treating Mexican patients who are displaced or affected by violence occurring in various parts of the country. This coincides with a significant increase in admissions to the CAI during that period—64 in total, which represents an increase of more than 50 per cent over the usual quarterly average of 40.

    “The goal is for patients to regain their functionality and reintegrate into society,” says Guinart. “The CAI is a refuge for those affected by violence. Kidnappings, extortion, abuse, sexual violence, and other forms of violence affect many people along the migratory route from the south of the continent to Mexico’s northern border with the United States.”  

    “At the CAI we find extremely vulnerable people,” says Guinart. “Women and children make up the bulk of the cohort. We also care for many LGBTQI+ people. Violence leaves deep scars, not only causing physical damage, but also serious psychological disorders. Specialised care is required as many patients experience changes in their perception of safety, trust, and well-being,”.

    “I didn’t know if I would be able to trust people again,” says Elena*, a patient at the CAI. “The violence made me feel unworthy of love or respect.” Through therapy, Elena has begun to regain her self-esteem. “I’ve learned that my past doesn’t define me and that I can build a better future.”  

    “Every day is a struggle,” says another patient. “Anxiety consumes me, but here I feel I have a safe space to express myself and heal.”

    “The difficulty in accessing adequate care makes recovery for many people affected by extreme violence much more arduous,” says Henry Rodríguez, MSF’s general coordinator in Mexico. “In these challenging times of cuts in humanitarian aid, it is essential to recognise the importance of providing comprehensive support and cooperation between public entities and non-governmental organisations to direct these people to the few services available.” 

    *Name has been changed.  

    MSF’s work in the region: Between January 2024 and February 2025, MSF teams in Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, Costa Rica, and Panama treated nearly 3,000 victims and survivors of sexual violence and provided more than 20,000 individual mental health consultations, many of them precipitated by violence, displacement, and difficulties in the migration process. 

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI: Best European Online Casinos: JACKBIT Rated Top EU Casino Site With Exclusive Bonus & Fast Payout

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CARDIFF, United Kingdom, May 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Online gambling is booming in Europe, but with so many platforms to choose from, finding the best European online casinos can be tricky. Players want an EU casino that’s safe, fun, and offers fast payouts.

    After reviewing hundreds of online casino EU platforms, our expert team has found that JACKBIT stands out as the top choice for 2025. With amazing bonuses, quick withdrawals, and a huge selection of games, JACKBIT is the ultimate spot for online casino real money play in Europe.

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    Whether you’re spinning reels on best online slots real money or testing your skills at live dealer tables, JACKBIT offers a seamless and rewarding experience that sets it apart from other online casinos Europe. This review dives into why JACKBIT is likely the best online casino Europe, covering its bonuses, games, payment options, and more.

    A Closer Look at the Best European Online Casino: JACKBIT

    JACKBIT has earned its place as the best European online casino through innovation and a player-focused approach. Launched in 2022 and licensed by the Curacao eGaming Commission, it provides a secure and fair gaming environment, making it a legit casino online for European players. Its standout feature is a no-KYC policy, allowing you to sign up and play without sharing personal details—a huge plus for privacy-conscious players across Europe.

    As a best paying online casino, JACKBIT processes withdrawals instantly, especially with cryptocurrencies. Imagine hitting a big win on Gates of Olympus and having your cash in your wallet within minutes—that’s the JACKBIT experience! New players are welcomed with a 30% rakeback and 100 free spins bonus, with no wagering requirements, letting you keep every penny you win.

    For example, deposit €100, and you’ll get €30 back plus free spins to try games like Book of Dead. JACKBIT keeps the excitement alive with ongoing promotions, including a VIP club offering up to 30% rakeback, social media giveaways, and Pragmatic Play’s Drops & Wins tournaments with a €2 million prize pool.

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    Boasting over 7,000 games from 91 top providers like Pragmatic Play, Evolution Gaming, and Play’n Go, JACKBIT caters to every taste. From high-RTP slots to live dealer blackjack and a sportsbook covering 140+ sports, the variety is endless. Its sleek, multilingual interface (English, German, French, Spanish, and more) ensures accessibility for players across Europe. With robust SSL encryption and 24/7 support, JACKBIT is the best European online casino for 2025.

    JACKBIT – The Top European Online Casino for Real Money

    JACKBIT isn’t just another eu casino—it’s a trailblazer in online casino Europa. Its no-KYC policy lets you dive into gaming without paperwork, a feature that resonates with European players valuing privacy. As a best online real money casino, JACKBIT’s instant withdrawals mean you’re never waiting long for your winnings. I was blown away by how quickly I could cash out after a lucky spin on Sweet Bonanza.

    The welcome bonus—30% rakeback and 100 free spins with no wagering—is a fantastic way to kick things off. It’s like getting extra chances to win without any catches. Ongoing offers, such as weekly $10,000 giveaways and a VIP program, keep the fun going. The sportsbook, with live betting on sports like football, tennis, and eSports, adds another layer of excitement, making JACKBIT a standout among best online casinos Europe.

    Pros and Cons of JACKBIT Casino

    Here’s a clear look at what makes JACKBIT great and a few things to consider:

    Pros Cons
    No KYC for private gaming at European online casinos Launched in 2022, still building long-term reputation
    Instant crypto withdrawals for best online casino payouts Some bonuses may have specific terms
    7,000+ games from top providers for best online slots real money Bonuses may be game-specific
    Robust sportsbook with live betting  
    30% rakeback + 100 free spins bonus  
    Supports 16+ cryptocurrencies and traditional methods  
    24/7 multilingual support for eu casinos  


    How to Join JACKBIT – The Best European Online Casino

    Getting started at JACKBIT, likely the best online casino Europe, is quick and easy, even for beginners:

    1. Visit JACKBIT Casino: Click here to go to JACKBIT’s website to start.
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    3. Make Your First Deposit: Head to the Cashier, choose a payment method like Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Visa, and deposit at least €20. Crypto deposits are instant—just scan the QR code.
    4. Enter Bonus Code: Type in the promo code (e.g., “WELCOME”) during your deposit. Check the Promotions page for the latest code.
    5. Get Your Bonus: Receive 30% rakeback and 100 free spins with no wagering requirements.
    6. Start Playing: Explore 7,000+ games or bet on sports like football or eSports.

    Tip: Double-check your email and promo code to ensure you get the bonus smoothly. Save your crypto wallet address for quick future deposits.

    How We Selected JACKBIT as the Best European Online Casino

    Choosing the best European online casino was no small task—we reviewed over 150 online casino eu platforms to find the top performer. Here’s how JACKBIT came out on top

    Licensing and Regulation

    JACKBIT operates under a Curacao eGaming license, a widely recognized credential in the online gambling industry that ensures adherence to strict standards for fairness and player protection. This license requires regular audits to verify game integrity and financial transparency, making JACKBIT a trusted eu online casino.

    We confirmed the validity of its licensing through industry sources, ensuring it meets the regulatory expectations of European players. Additionally, JACKBIT employs advanced SSL encryption to safeguard personal and financial data, protecting users from cyber threats. Regular third-party audits of its random number generators (RNGs) further guarantee that games like slots and blackjack offer fair outcomes, reinforcing its status as a legit casino online for online casino europa enthusiasts.

    Bonuses and Promotions

    Bonuses are a major draw for players at European online casinos, and we prioritized platforms offering generous, transparent rewards. JACKBIT’s welcome bonus—30% rakeback plus 100 free spins with no wagering requirements—sets it apart from competitors. Unlike many online casinos Europe, where bonuses often come with high wagering conditions, JACKBIT’s no-wager spins mean players can keep their winnings immediately, adding instant value.

    Other Promotions

    • 3+1 FreeBet
    • Bet Insurance
    • Social Media Bonuses
    • NBA Playoffs Cashback

    Tournaments and Prize Pools

    JACKBIT is all about competition, offering thrilling opportunities for players to participate in casino and sports tournaments with prize pools that can reach six figures. Notable tournaments include:

    • Daily Tournament – Win 1,000 Free Spins
    • Weekly Tournament – Prize pool of up to $10,000
    • Pragmatic Play’s Drops & Wins Campaign – Reward pool of up to €2,000,000

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    Game Variety

    A diverse game library is essential for a best European online casino, as European players have varied preferences, from slots to sports betting. JACKBIT’s collection of over 7,000 games, sourced from 91 top providers, ensures there’s something for everyone. Slots like Sweet Bonanza and Mega Moolah cater to jackpot hunters, while table games like Blackjack and Roulette appeal to strategic players.

    The live dealer section, with over 250 tables, offers immersive experiences like Lightning Roulette. JACKBIT’s sportsbook, covering 140+ sports with 82,000+ live events monthly, adds a unique dimension, allowing bets on football, tennis, and eSports. This variety, regularly updated with new releases, keeps the online casino eu experience fresh and engaging, setting JACKBIT apart from other best online casinos Europe.

    Game Providers
    The quality of games depends on the providers behind them, and JACKBIT partners with industry giants like Pragmatic Play, Evolution Gaming, and Play’n Go. Pragmatic Play delivers high-RTP slots with engaging features, such as Gates of Olympus’s tumbling reels. Evolution Gaming powers JACKBIT’s live dealer games, offering professional dealers and HD streaming for an authentic eu casino experience.

    Play’n Go’s mobile-optimized titles, like Book of Dead, ensure seamless gameplay across devices. These partnerships guarantee top-notch graphics, fair outcomes, and innovative features, making JACKBIT a leader in online casino europa gaming quality.

    Payment Methods

    Flexible, fast payment options are crucial for best online casino europe players. JACKBIT supports 16+ cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Tether, and Solana, offering instant, fee-free deposits and withdrawals. This speed aligns with the expectations of instant withdrawal casino enthusiasts, allowing players to access winnings in minutes.

    Traditional methods like Visa, MasterCard, and bank transfers are available, with deposits processed instantly and withdrawals taking 1-3 days. E-wallets like Skrill and Neteller (where supported) provide additional convenience. We tested transaction speeds and found JACKBIT’s crypto payouts to be among the fastest in online casinos Europe, with minimum deposits starting at €20, accessible for all budgets .

    Customer Support

    Reliable support is a hallmark of top online casinos, and JACKBIT delivers with 24/7 live chat and email assistance in multiple European languages, including English, German, French, and Spanish. This ensures players from diverse regions can get help anytime, whether resolving payment issues or clarifying bonus terms.

    We tested response times and found JACKBIT’s team to be prompt and professional, typically answering within minutes via live chat. The platform’s comprehensive FAQ section also addresses common queries, enhancing the user experience. This level of support makes JACKBIT a standout best European online casino for accessibility and player care.

    JACKBIT’s exceptional performance across these criteria—robust licensing, player-friendly bonuses, diverse games, top providers, fast payments, and reliable support—solidifies its position as the best online casino Europe for 2025. Its innovative no-KYC policy and instant crypto transactions cater perfectly to the needs of European players, ensuring a secure, rewarding, and enjoyable eu casino experience.

    What Players Want in the Best European Online Casinos

    European players look for specific features when choosing a eu casino to ensure a fun, safe, and rewarding experience. Here’s how JACKBIT meets these needs:

    • Safety and Trust: Players want secure platforms. JACKBIT’s Curacao license and encryption make it a legit casino online.
    • Game Variety: A wide range of games keeps things exciting. JACKBIT’s slots, tables, and sportsbook cover all bases.
    • Bonuses: Generous offers add value. JACKBIT’s no-wager spins and rakeback are top-tier.
    • Payments: Fast, flexible options are key. JACKBIT’s crypto and traditional methods deliver.
    • Support: Quick help is essential. JACKBIT’s 24/7 team is always ready.
    • Ease of Use: A user-friendly site is a must. JACKBIT’s multilingual design shines.

    JACKBIT ticks all these boxes, making it a favorite among best European online casinos.

    Best European Online Casino Games at JACKBIT

    JACKBIT’s game library, with over 7,000 titles from 91 providers, is a highlight of its status as a best online casino Europe. Here’s what you can play:

    • Online Slots: From Gates of Olympus (96.50% RTP) to Mega Moolah with its massive jackpots, JACKBIT’s slots offer vibrant themes and big wins, perfect for best online slots real money. Sweet Bonanza (96.48% RTP) features cascading reels and a 21,175x max win, while Book of Dead (96.21% RTP) delivers adventure and free spins.
    • Blackjack: Variants like Classic Blackjack and Multi-Hand let you outsmart the dealer, with a low house edge (0.5% with strategy) for online casino real money play.
    • Roulette: European Roulette (2.7% edge) and American versions offer simple, thrilling bets on numbers or colors, popular across online casinos Europe.
    • Poker: Caribbean Stud and Three Card Poker blend skill and luck, appealing to strategic players at eu casinos.
    • Live Dealer Games: Over 250 live tables, including Lightning Roulette and Infinite Blackjack, bring real casino vibes with interactive dealers.
    • Sportsbook: Bet on 140+ sports, from football to eSports, with 82,000+ live events monthly and 4,500+ betting types, ideal for casino online Europa fans.

    This diverse lineup ensures JACKBIT is a top best European online casino for all players.

    LOOKING FOR ENDLESS FUN? PLAY GAMES AT JACKBIT CASINO!

    Best European Online Casino Payment Methods at JACKBIT

    JACKBIT offers a range of payment options tailored for European players, balancing speed and security:

    • Cryptocurrencies: Supports 16+ cryptos like Bitcoin, Ethereum, Tether, Solana, and Binance Coin. Deposits and withdrawals are instant and fee-free, with blockchain security ensuring privacy, making JACKBIT a leader in best online casino payouts. Minimum deposits start at €10 or equivalent.
    • Credit/Debit Cards: Visa and MasterCard provide instant deposits (€10 minimum), familiar for non-crypto users. Withdrawals take 1-3 days, standard for online casino Europa.
    • E-Wallets: Skrill and Neteller (where available) offer secure, fast transactions, with instant deposits and 1-2 day withdrawals, ideal for eu online casino players.
    • Bank Transfer: Suitable for larger withdrawals (€50 minimum), taking 1-5 days with possible fees, less ideal for instant withdrawal casino needs.
    • Buy Crypto Option: Purchase crypto directly on the site, simplifying access for newcomers to casino online europa.
    Payment Method Deposit Time Withdrawal Time Fees
    Cryptocurrencies Instant <1 hour None
    Visa/MasterCard Instant 1-3 days Varies
    Skrill/Neteller Instant 1-2 days Varies
    Bank Transfer 1-5 days 1-5 days Varies

    JACKBIT’s crypto focus and traditional options make it a top best European online casino for seamless transactions.

    FAST PAYMENTS, EASY PLAY! JOIN JACKBIT CASINO NOW!

    Mobile Gaming at JACKBIT

    JACKBIT’s mobile-optimized platform is a game-changer for European online casinos, letting you play on smartphones or tablets without missing a beat. No app is needed—just open your browser, and you’ll access 7,000+ games, sports betting, deposits, and bonuses. The smooth navigation and fast load times make it a leader in online casino eu mobile gaming.

    Responsible Gambling at European Online Casinos

    JACKBIT takes player safety seriously, offering tools to keep gaming fun and controlled:

    • Deposit Limits: Set daily, weekly, or monthly caps.
    • Loss Limits: Restrict losses over a period.
    • Wagering Limits: Control bet sizes.
    • Session Time Limits: Track playtime.
    • Cooling-Off Periods: Pause your account temporarily.
    • Self-Exclusion: Suspend your account for longer breaks.
    • Reality Checks: Get reminders about your gaming time.

    These tools, along with links to support like GamCare, ensure JACKBIT is a most trusted online casino in Europe.

    JACKBIT Conclusion: The Best European Online Casino for 2025

    After reviewing countless online casinos Europe, we’re excited to crown JACKBIT the best European online casino for 2025. Its no-KYC policy, instant crypto withdrawals, and 7,000+ games make it unbeatable. The 30% rakeback and 100 free spins bonus, plus VIP rewards and tournaments, offer incredible value. With a top-notch sportsbook, robust security, and 24/7 support in multiple languages, JACKBIT is perfect for slot fans, table game players, and sports bettors across Europe. Join JACKBIT today and discover why it’s the best online casino Europe!

    JOIN JACKBIT NOW & GRAB FREE SPINS

    Legal Disclaimer

    This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or gambling advice. Information is provided “as is,” without warranties. Readers must verify details and comply with local gambling laws. Gambling carries financial risks and potential addiction. Gamble responsibly with funds you can afford to lose. Seek help from organizations like GamCare or BeGambleAware if needed. Some links may be affiliate links, earning a commission at no cost to you. JACKBIT is licensed outside Europe and may be restricted in certain regions.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Is JACKBIT a safe European online casino?

    JACKBIT, licensed by Curacao, uses SSL encryption and fair games, ensuring a secure European online casino experience for players.

    What bonuses does JACKBIT offer?

    JACKBIT provides 30% rakeback and 100 no-wager free spins, plus VIP rewards, enhancing value at best online casinos Europe.

    Can I play JACKBIT on my phone?

    Yes, JACKBIT’s mobile-optimized site offers seamless gaming on devices, making it a top online casino eu for mobile play.

    What payment methods does JACKBIT use?

    JACKBIT supports 16+ cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, plus Visa and Skrill, for fast transactions at best European online casinos.

    How quick are JACKBIT withdrawals?

    Crypto withdrawals are instant, while card payments take 1-3 days, ideal for a best online casino Europe.

    Does JACKBIT have live dealer games?

    JACKBIT offers 250+ live dealer games, like blackjack and roulette, for a real eu casino experience.

    Is JACKBIT legal in Europe?

    Licensed by Curacao, JACKBIT is accessible in many European countries, but check local laws for online casinos Europe.

    What games can I play at JACKBIT?

    JACKBIT features slots, table games, live dealers, and sports betting, perfect for best online casino Europe players.

    Email: support@JACKBIT.com

    Disclaimer

    Online gambling involves financial risk. Ensure you’re at least 19 years old and comply with the legal regulations in your area. Gamble responsibly, and always refer to JACKBIT‘s official website for the most up-to-date terms, promotions, and payment options.

    General Disclaimer

    This article is for informational and entertainment purposes only, not legal or financial advice. Content is based on research and user reviews as of writing. No warranties are made, and users must verify information before acting.

    Casino and Gambling Disclaimer

    Online gambling carries risks and isn’t for everyone. Confirm you’re of legal gambling age in your jurisdiction. Gambling laws vary, and compliance is your responsibility. We don’t promote gambling; participation is at your risk. JACKBIT is a third-party platform, and we’re not liable for losses or disputes.

    Affiliate Disclosure

    This article may include affiliate links, earning us a commission at no cost to you for qualifying actions. These support our content. Our reviews are unbiased, and we recommend only valuable products.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2f21d9f2-4af3-4e4b-b4f8-38238cea5fd8
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/491689f2-6b5c-46a7-9321-77fb3fa2dd4f

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Brand New Online Casinos: Find Out The Newest Online Casino With Secure Play And Big Win Potential For Gamblers – By 7Bit casinos

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ST HELENA, Calif., May 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The online casino world has exploded in popularity, changing the way players enjoy gaming with easy access to a wide variety of games, exciting bonuses, and flexible betting options from the comfort of home. The rise of digital currencies has also contributed to the growth of brand new online casinos, with the newest e-casinos focusing on offering a top-notch experience for players.

    ✅VISIT NOW AND CLAIM YOUR BONUS AT 7BIT CASINO!

    After exploring numerous brand new online casino sites and assessing their bonuses, rewards, and features, we found 7Bit Casino—a brand new online casino that truly impresses. Established in 2014, 7Bit Casino surprises with its vast game library, lightning-fast payouts, and intuitive interface, making it a standout choice for real money play. This review dives into why 7Bit Casino ranks among the best brand new online casinos, covering its features, bonuses, payment methods, and more.

    Overview Of 7Bit Casino

    • Launched Year: 2014
    • License: Curacao eGaming
    • Owned By: Dama N.V.
    • Welcome Bonus: Up to 325% match up to 5.25 BTC + 250 Free Spins across the first four deposits
    • Number of Games: 5,000+
    • Fiat Banking Methods: Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, ecoPayz, MiFinity, Neosurf, Flexepin, AstroPay
    • Accepted Cryptocurrencies: Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Litecoin (LTC), Dogecoin (DOGE), Tether (USDT), Cardano (ADA), Ripple (XRP)
    • Payout Speed: Instant to 1 hour (Crypto), 1-5 business days (Fiat)
    • Customer Support: 24/7 via Live Chat, Email, and Phone

    Why 7Bit Casino Rises Among Brand New Online Casinos?

    In a competitive landscape of brand new online casinos, 7Bit Casino distinguishes itself through a combination of robust features and player-focused services. While many new real money online casinos rely on flashy promotions, 7Bit delivers substance and reliability. Here’s why it’s considered a top new online casino:

    1. Expansive Game Library: Offering over 5,000 games, 7Bit surpasses many brand new online casino sites with its variety. Players can enjoy slots like 7Bit Hot & Hot Fruits, table games like roulette and blackjack, live dealer options, and unique Bitcoin games, all powered by leading developers.
    2. Lucrative Bonuses: The welcome package offers up to 325% match up to 5.25 BTC + 250 free spins across four deposits, outshining many competitors. Ongoing promotions, such as 20% cashback and weekly free spins, keep players engaged, while a 12-level VIP program rewards loyalty.
    3. Swift and Secure Payments: As a brand new online casino, 7Bit supports modern payment methods, including cryptocurrencies for near-instant withdrawals and fiat options for broader accessibility. Crypto payouts are often processed within an hour, a significant advantage.
    4. Intuitive Interface: The casino’s sleek, mobile-optimized design ensures easy navigation, making it accessible on any device without requiring a dedicated app.
    5. Reliable Support: 24/7 customer support via live chat, email, and phone ensures prompt resolution of issues, enhancing the player experience.

    Compared to other brand new online casino sites, 7Bit Casino offers a more comprehensive and dependable platform, earning its place among the best brand new online casinos.

    Bonuses And Promotions

    7Bit Casino offers some of the most competitive bonuses among new real money online casinos, enhancing the gaming experience for all players. Here’s a breakdown:

    • Welcome Bonus: Up to 325% match up to 5.25 BTC + 250 free spins across four deposits:
      • 1st Deposit: 100% match up to 1.5 BTC + 100 free spins
      • 2nd Deposit: 75% match up to 1.25 BTC + 100 free spins
      • 3rd Deposit: 50% match up to 1.5 BTC
      • 4th Deposit: 100% match up to 1 BTC + 50 free spins
    • Ongoing Promotions:
      • New Game Offer: 45 Free Spins
      • Weekly Cashback: Up to 20%
      • Monday Offer: 25% up to 5.5 mBTC + 50 FS
      • Wednesday Offer: Up to 100 Free Spins
      • Telegram Offer: 50 Free Spins
      • Weekend Offer: 50% up to 5.5 mBTC
      • Telegram Friday Offer: 111 Free Spins
      • Telegram Sunday Offer: 66 Free Spins
    • VIP Program: A 12-level program offering cashback, free spins, and exclusive rewards.

    ✅READY FOR YOUR 325% BONUS AND 250 FREE SPINS? CLAIM IT NOW!

    These promotions make 7Bit Casino a standout among brand new online casino sites, providing ample opportunities to boost your bankroll.

    Guide To Join 7Bit Casino

    Joining 7Bit Casino is straightforward, making it an ideal choice for those eager to explore a brand new online casino real money platform. Follow these steps:

    1. Visit the Website: Click here to navigate to the official 7Bit Casino website using your desktop or mobile browser. Ensure you’re on a legitimate site to protect your personal information. A padlock icon in the browser’s address bar signifies a secure connection.
    2. Click “Sign Up”: Locate the registration button at the top right of the homepage. It’s prominently displayed for easy access. You will be taken to the registration form upon clicking it.
    3. Enter Details: Provide your email, username, and password. Make sure your password is strong to enhance account security. Verify your email address again to prevent problems with verification.
    4. Accept Terms: Agree to the terms and conditions after reviewing them. This step ensures you understand the casino’s policies. It’s quick but important for compliance.
    5. Register: Submit the form to create your account. The process takes just a few seconds. You’ll receive a confirmation message upon successful registration.
    6. Verify Email: Click the verification link sent to your inbox. Check your spam folder if the email doesn’t appear immediately. Verification is essential to activate your account.
    7. Deposit Funds: Choose a payment method and deposit to claim the welcome bonus. The cashier section is user-friendly, guiding you through the process. Funds are typically available instantly, allowing you to start playing right away.

    Once registered, you can dive into this brand new online casino real money platform, enjoying its extensive games and bonuses.

    Pros And Cons Of 7Bit Casino

    To provide a balanced perspective, here’s a table summarizing the pros and cons of 7Bit Casino based on player feedback and our analysis:

    Pros Cons
    Over 5,000 games, making it a top brand new online casino for a variety No dedicated mobile app, though the site is mobile-friendly
    Generous welcome bonus (325% match + 250 free spins) and ongoing promotions Certain games might not be accessible in some areas.
    Fast crypto withdrawals (instant to 1 hour)  
    Secure and fair, with Curacao license and SSL encryption  
    24/7 responsive customer support  
    Mobile-optimized interface for seamless play  

    The casino’s strengths, particularly its game variety and fast payouts, position it as the best brand new online casino for many players, though minor drawbacks like slower fiat withdrawals warrant consideration.

    Payment Methods

    In order to serve all players, 7Bit Casino, a brand-new real money online casino, provides a variety of payment methods. Its banking system is designed to be secure, efficient, and beginner-friendly, ensuring smooth deposits and withdrawals.

    Whether you prefer the speed of cryptocurrencies or the familiarity of traditional methods, 7Bit Casino caters to your needs with minimal fees and fast processing times. The platform’s flexibility in supporting multiple currencies, including AUD, USD, and various cryptocurrencies, enhances its appeal. Below are the supported methods:

    Fiat Currencies:

    • Visa
    • Mastercard
    • Maestro
    • ecoPayz
    • MiFinity
    • Neosurf
    • Flexepin
    • AstroPay

    Cryptocurrencies:

    • Bitcoin (BTC)
    • Ethereum (ETH)
    • Litecoin (LTC)
    • Dogecoin (DOGE)
    • Tether (USDT)
    • Cardano (ADA)
    • Ripple (XRP)

    Deposit Times: Instant for all methods.

    ✅INSTANT PAYOUTS AWAIT! WHY WAIT? START NOW!

    This flexibility and speed make 7Bit Casino a top new online casino for payment convenience.

    Game Library

    The game library at this brand new online casino is one of its biggest draws, featuring over 5,000 titles across various categories. Players can explore:

    • Slots: Popular games like 7Bit Hot & Hot Fruits, 7Bit Bonanza, and Throne of Camelot Hold and Win. These titles offer vibrant graphics and engaging themes, appealing to both casual and seasoned players. Many slots include progressive jackpots, providing opportunities for significant wins.
    • Table Games: European and American roulette, blackjack, baccarat, and poker. These classics are available in multiple variants to suit different player preferences. High-quality animations and realistic gameplay enhance the experience.
    • Video Poker: Jacks or Better, Tens or Better, Deuces Wild. These games combine strategy and luck, offering a refreshing alternative to slots. Players can enjoy single-hand or multi-hand versions for added excitement.
    • Live Casino: Immersive live dealer games for a real casino feel. Streamed in high definition, these games include live blackjack, roulette, and baccarat hosted by professional dealers. Players can communicate with dealers and other players using interactive elements.
    • Exclusive Bitcoin Games: Titles are playable only with cryptocurrency. These games are designed for crypto enthusiasts, offering unique themes and fast-paced gameplay. They leverage blockchain technology for provably fair outcomes.

    Powered by providers like Pragmatic Play, BGaming, and Play’n GO, the games offer high-quality graphics and fair outcomes. This brand new online casino real money site ensures every player finds something to enjoy, with regular additions to keep the library fresh.

    ✅READY FOR ENDLESS GAMING? JUMP IN AND PLAY NOW!

    User Experience

    The user interface of this brand new online casino is designed for ease and convenience. Its modern, dark-themed design is visually appealing and easy to navigate, with games organized into clear categories. The search function allows quick access to specific titles, and mobile optimization ensures seamless play on smartphones and tablets.

    Players can switch between light and dark themes, and the platform loads quickly without clutter, making 7Bit Casino a top new online casino for accessibility. The interface minimizes distractions, allowing players to focus on their gaming experience. Regular updates keep the platform smooth and compatible with the latest devices. Overall, the design prioritizes functionality, ensuring players of all skill levels can enjoy the casino effortlessly.

    Legitimacy And Safety

    As a licensed new real money online casino, 7Bit Casino operates under the strict regulations of the Curacao government (License No. 8048/JAZ2020-013). It employs SSL encryption to protect player data and uses Random Number Generators (RNGs) to ensure fair gameplay. Responsible gambling tools, such as deposit limits and self-exclusion options, further enhance its credibility.

    The casino’s transparent policies and provably fair games make it a safe choice for players seeking a trustworthy brand new online casino. Regular audits by independent agencies verify the integrity of its gaming systems. Players can access detailed terms and conditions to understand their rights and obligations. Additionally, the platform promotes responsible gaming through educational resources and support links.

    Conclusion: 7Bit – The Brand New Online Casino

    7Bit Casino is undeniably one of the best brand new online casinos, offering a comprehensive and exciting gaming experience. Its vast game library, generous bonuses, fast payouts, and reliable support set it apart from other brand new online casino sites. Whether you’re a fan of slots, table games, or live dealer action, this new real money online casino has it all.

    Sign up today to claim your welcome bonus and experience a platform that delivers on its promises. With its modern design and player-centric approach, 7Bit Casino ensures hours of entertainment. Don’t miss out on exploring this top-tier gaming destination tailored for both casual and serious players.

    ✅WHY NOT TAKE ADVANTAGE OF YOUR BONUS? JOIN AND PLAY TODAY!

    FAQs

    • Is 7Bit Casino a brand new online casino?

    Established in 2014, 7Bit Casino feels like a brand new online casino due to its continuous updates and modern features.

    • What makes 7Bit Casino one of the best brand new online casinos?

    Its extensive games, generous bonuses, crypto support, and fast payouts make it a top choice among brand new online casino sites.

    • Can I play at 7Bit Casino with real money?

    Yes, 7Bit Casino is a real money platform where you can deposit, play, and withdraw winnings.

    • What are some popular games at this brand new online casino?

    Favorites include 7Bit Hot & Hot Fruits, 7Bit Bonanza, and various table and live dealer games.

    • Does 7Bit Casino offer a welcome bonus for new players?

    New players can claim up to 325% match up to 5.25 BTC + 250 free spins across their first four deposits.

    • Is 7Bit Casino safe to play at?

    Licensed by Curacao and using SSL encryption, 7Bit Casino ensures a secure and fair gaming environment.

    Email: support@7bitcasino.com

    Disclaimer

    This article is neither legal nor financial advice; rather, it is purely informational. Online gambling laws vary by jurisdiction, and players must ensure compliance with local regulations. Gamble responsibly, and be aware of the risks involved. 18+ only.

    General Disclaimer

    This article is for informational and entertainment purposes only, not legal or financial advice. Content is based on research and user reviews as of writing. No warranties are made, and users must verify information before acting.

    Casino and Gambling Disclaimer

    Online gambling carries risks and isn’t for everyone. Confirm you’re of legal gambling age in your jurisdiction. Gambling laws vary, and compliance is your responsibility. We don’t promote gambling; participation is at your risk. 7Bit Casino is a third-party platform, and we’re not liable for losses or disputes.

    Affiliate Disclosure

    This article may include affiliate links, earning us a commission at no cost to you for qualifying actions. These support our content. Our reviews are unbiased, and we recommend only valuable products.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/aed8e6ed-92da-4e54-afcd-961e30f3c641

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d3390ab2-4c09-4fc5-8e06-331c63086151

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c404db4b-8aa7-4ac2-84d7-976239d69b22

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: New Online Casinos Canada: 7Bit Casino Ranked #1 Newest Canadian Online Casino Of 2025!

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, May 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The online casino industry in Canada has seen remarkable growth over the past decade, fueled by advancements in technology and a shift toward digital entertainment. High-speed internet and smartphones have made it easier for Canadians to enjoy casino games from home or on the go, leading to a surge in new online casinos entering the market.

    Among these, 7Bit Casino has emerged as a standout choice, offering an impressive array of features tailored to Canadian players.

    JOIN 7BIT CASINO NOW – YOUR JACKPOT AWAITS!

    After testing various new online casinos in Canada, we found 7Bit Casino particularly noteworthy. This platform boasts a game library exceeding 10,000 titles and prioritizes lightning-fast payouts, ensuring players can access their winnings quickly. Whether you’re into slots, table games, or live dealer experiences, 7Bit Casino delivers a diverse and engaging gaming environment that caters to all preferences.

    This article dives deep into why 7Bit Casino ranks as the best new online casino Canada. We’ll cover its game selection, bonuses, payment methods, user interface, customer support, and more. Plus, we’ll provide a step-by-step guide on how to join, a pros and cons table, and answers to common questions about this new online casino in Canada.

    Overview Of 7Bit Casino

    • Game Variety: Over 10,000 games from top providers like NetEnt, Microgaming, and Pragmatic Play.
    • Bonuses: Welcome pack up to 10800 CAD + 250 free spins, plus ongoing promotions.
    • Payment Methods: Supports fiat (e.g., Interac, VISA) and cryptocurrencies (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum).
    • Customer Support: 24/7 live chat and email support.
    • Mobile Compatibility: Fully optimized for mobile devices without a dedicated app.
    • Security: Include SSL encryption, Licensed by Curacao, and provably fair games.

    These features position 7Bit Casino as a top-tier new online casino Canada, offering a secure and comprehensive gaming experience.

    Why 7Bit Casino Is The Best New Online Casino In Canada?

    Choosing a new online casino in Canada involves weighing factors like reliability, game variety, bonuses, and customer service. 7Bit Casino excels in these areas, making it a leader among the best new online casinos. Since its establishment in 2014, 7Bit has built a strong reputation in the iGaming industry, continually innovating to meet player needs.

    The casino’s game library is a major draw, with over 10,000 titles from more than 100 developers. This extensive selection ensures that players can find games suited to their tastes, from classic slots to immersive live dealer tables. Additionally, 7Bit Casino supports both fiat and cryptocurrency payments, offering flexibility for Canadian players who prefer traditional methods like Interac or modern options like Bitcoin.

    As a new online casino Canada, it stands out for its diverse offerings. Bonuses are another highlight, with a generous welcome package and regular promotions that keep players engaged. The platform’s commitment to fast payouts—often within 10 minutes for crypto transactions—sets it apart from many new casinos.

    Combined with 24/7 customer support and a user-friendly interface, 7Bit Casino delivers an exceptional experience, making it a top pick for those exploring new online gambling sites.

    Bonuses And Promotions At 7Bit Casino

    7Bit Casino offers a robust lineup of bonuses and promotions, starting with a generous welcome package for new players. The welcome bonus provides a 325% match up to 10800 CAD plus 250 free spins across the first four deposits, structured as follows:

    1. First Deposit: 100% match up to 800 CAD + 100 free spins.
    2. Second Deposit: 75% match up to 1200 CAD + 100 free spins.
    3. Third Deposit: 50% match up to 800 CAD.
    4. Fourth Deposit: 100% match up to 8000 CAD + 50 free spins.

    GRAB YOUR $10,800 WELCOME PACK NOW! JOIN 7BIT CASINO TODAY!

    Beyond the welcome offer, players can enjoy:

    • Monday Reload Bonus: 25% match + 50 free spins to kick off the week.
    • Wednesday Free Spins: Up to 100 free spins on select slots using the promo code WEDNESDAY.
    • Weekly Cashback: Up to 20% cashback for active players, providing a safety net for losses.
    • VIP Bonuses: Exclusive rewards for VIP club members, including personalized bonuses and a dedicated manager.
    • No Deposit Bonus: Occasional offers using promo codes, allowing players to play without depositing.
    • New Game Offer: 45 Free Spins
    • Telegram Offer: 50 Free Spins
    • Weekend Offer: 50% up to 1000 CAD
    • Telegram Offer: 50 Free Spins
    • Telegram Friday Offer: 111 Free Spins
    • Telegram Sunday Offer: 66 Free Spins

    The variety of promotions ensures that both new and regular players have ample opportunities to boost their bankrolls at this newly established online casino.

    How To Join 7Bit Casino?

    Joining 7Bit Casino is quick and straightforward, taking just a minute to complete. Follow these steps to get started:

    1. Visit the Website: Click here to navigate to the official 7Bit Casino website. Ensure you’re on a legitimate site to protect your personal information. A secure connection is indicated by the padlock icon in your browser.
    2. Click Sign Up: Find the “Sign Up” button in the upper right corner of the homepage. It’s prominently displayed for easy access. Clicking it will open a registration form to begin the process.
    3. Enter Your Details: Provide your email address, create a username and password, and select your preferred currency (fiat or cryptocurrency). Double-check your email for accuracy to avoid issues with account verification. You may also need to agree to the terms and conditions.
    4. Confirm Your Email: Check your inbox for a confirmation email and click the link to verify your account. This step is crucial to activate your account fully. If the email doesn’t arrive, check your spam or junk folder.
    5. Claim Your Bonus: Enter any applicable bonus codes during registration or when depositing. Make sure to read the bonus terms to understand wagering requirements. Some bonuses may require a minimum deposit to activate.

    Once registered, players gain instant access to the VIP club, which offers exclusive bonuses and a personal manager. This seamless process makes 7Bit Casino an attractive option for those seeking a new online casino Canada.

    Pros And Cons Of 7Bit Casino

    Pros Cons
    Over 10,000 games from top providers Some payment methods incur fees
    Generous welcome bonus and promotions No dedicated mobile app
    Supports fiat and cryptocurrencies, including Interac  
    Fast payouts, especially with crypto  
    24/7 customer support  
    Mobile-friendly platform  

    This table summarizes the key advantages and drawbacks, helping players decide if 7Bit Casino is the right new online casino Canada for them.

    Game Selection At 7Bit Casino

    7Bit Casino’s game library is a treasure trove for gaming enthusiasts, offering over 10,000 titles across various categories. Here’s a closer look at what’s available:

    • Slots: From classic three-reel games to feature-rich video slots, 7Bit offers something for every slot lover. Popular titles include Mega Moolah, known for its massive progressive jackpots, Johnny Cash, and Elvis Frog in Vegas.
    • Table Games: Players can enjoy classics like blackjack, roulette, baccarat, and poker, with multiple variants to suit different skill levels and preferences.
    • Live Dealer Games: For an authentic casino experience, 7Bit provides live dealer options, including live blackjack, roulette, and baccarat, streamed in real-time with professional dealers.
    • Specialty Games: The casino also features keno, scratch cards, and virtual sports, adding variety to the gaming lineup.

    PLAY SLOTS, TABLE GAMES & MORE – NO LIMITS!

    These games are powered by leading software providers like NetEnt, Microgaming, Pragmatic Play, and BetSoft, ensuring high-quality graphics and smooth gameplay. The use of provably fair technology guarantees transparency, making 7Bit a trusted choice among brand new online casinos Canada. Players can also try many games in demo mode before wagering real money, a feature that enhances the appeal of this new casino website.

    Banking Methods At 7Bit Casino

    7Bit Casino supports a wide range of payment methods, catering to Canadian players with both fiat and cryptocurrency options. Available methods include:

    • Fiat Payments:
      • Credit/Debit Cards: VISA, MasterCard
      • E-Wallets: Skrill, Neteller, ecoPayz
      • Online Banking: Interac, Rapid Transfer
      • Prepaid Cards: Neosurf
    • Cryptocurrencies: Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Litecoin (LTC), Dogecoin (DOGE), Bitcoin Cash (BCH)

    Deposits are processed instantly, while withdrawals are notably fast, especially for cryptocurrencies, which can be completed within 10 minutes. Fiat withdrawals, such as those via Interac or credit cards, may take 1-3 business days.

    Interac is particularly popular among Canadian players for its convenience and security, making 7Bit a top choice for those exploring brand new casino sites. The flexibility of payment options ensures that players can choose the method that best suits their needs at this online casino for real money.

    PICK YOUR PAYMENT METHOD AND PLAY NOW!

    User Interface At 7Bit Casino

    7Bit Casino features a modern, user-friendly interface that enhances the gaming experience. The website’s design is intuitive, with games organized into categories like slots, table games, and live dealer options. Players can filter games by provider, type, or popularity, making it easy to find their favorites.

    The platform is fully optimized for mobile devices, allowing players to access games on smartphones and tablets without a dedicated app. Whether using iOS, Android, or Windows, the mobile experience is seamless, with all features—deposits, withdrawals, and support—readily available. This accessibility makes 7Bit Casino a standout as the new online casino Canada.

    Customer Support At 7Bit Casino

    7Bit Casino offers robust customer support, available 24/7 via live chat and email. The support team is responsive and knowledgeable, addressing queries about account management, bonuses, payments, and more. The website also includes a comprehensive FAQ section, distributed across relevant pages, which answers common questions and reduces the need to contact support.

    This level of service ensures that players have a smooth experience, reinforcing 7Bit’s position as one of the best new online casinos for Canadian players.

    User Experience And Reviews

    Player feedback highlights 7Bit Casino’s strengths, including its vast game selection, mobile compatibility, and reliable payouts. Many appreciate the platform’s security features, such as SSL encryption and provably fair games, which contribute to a trustworthy gaming environment. The casino’s Curacao license further bolsters its credibility, positioning 7Bit as a notable new online casino Canada.

    However, some players have reported issues, such as unexpected bonus losses or fees on certain payment methods. Despite these concerns, the overall sentiment is positive, with 7Bit earning high ratings (e.g., 4.8/5 from some reviews) for its comprehensive offerings and user-friendly design. This makes it a compelling choice for those exploring the list of new online casinos.

    Is 7Bit Casino Legit In Canada?

    7Bit Casino is a legitimate online casino, licensed by the Government of Curacao, which ensures compliance with international gaming standards. In Canada, online gambling laws vary by province, but it is generally legal for residents to play at offshore casinos like 7Bit. The platform uses SSL encryption to protect player data and offers provably fair games, enhancing its trustworthiness.

    As a new online casino Canada, it provides a secure and compliant option for players. Canadian players can confidently use 7Bit Casino, provided they adhere to local regulations. This legitimacy makes it a reliable option among new online gambling sites.

    Final Thoughts On The Best New Online Casinos Canada

    7Bit Casino stands out as a premier new online casino Canada, offering an unmatched combination of game variety, generous bonuses, and flexible payment options. Its commitment to fast payouts, robust customer support, and a mobile-friendly platform makes it ideal for both new and experienced players. Whether you’re chasing big wins on progressive slots or enjoying live dealer tables, 7Bit delivers a top-notch experience.

    As the online casino industry in Canada continues to grow, 7Bit Casino remains a leader among brand new online casinos. Its comprehensive features and player-focused approach make it a must-try for anyone seeking a new casino website.

    WHY WAIT? JOIN 7BIT CASINO NOW AND START WINNING!

    FAQs

    Is 7Bit Casino legal in Canada?

    Yes, 7Bit Casino is a licensed offshore casino that Canadian players can legally access, though local regulations should be checked.

    What bonuses does 7Bit Casino offer to new players?

    New players receive a 325% match bonus up to 10800 CAD plus 250 free spins across their first four deposits.

    What payment methods are available at 7Bit Casino for Canadian players?

    Options include Interac, VISA, MasterCard, Skrill, Neteller, and cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum.

    How many games does 7Bit Casino offer?

    The casino provides over 10,000 games, including slots, table games, live dealer options, and specialty games.

    Is there a mobile app for 7Bit Casino?

    No, but the website is fully optimized for mobile devices, offering a seamless experience via browsers.

    What is the customer support like at 7Bit Casino?

    7Bit offers 24/7 support through live chat and email, with a helpful FAQ section for quick answers.

    Email: support@7bitcasino.com

    Disclaimer

    This article does not provide legal or financial advice; it is merely meant to be informative. There are risks associated with gambling, therefore players should use caution. The information is accurate as of May 2025 but may change. Verify details on the official 7Bit Casino website. The article may contain affiliate links, and the author is not responsible for any losses incurred.

    General Disclaimer

    This article is for informational and entertainment purposes only, not legal or financial advice. Content is based on research and user reviews as of writing. No warranties are made, and users must verify information before acting.

    Casino and Gambling Disclaimer

    Online gambling carries risks and isn’t for everyone. Confirm you’re of legal gambling age in your jurisdiction. Gambling laws vary, and compliance is your responsibility. We don’t promote gambling; participation is at your risk. 7Bit Casino is a third-party platform, and we’re not liable for losses or disputes.

    Affiliate Disclosure

    This article may include affiliate links, earning us a commission at no cost to you for qualifying actions. These support our content. Our reviews are unbiased, and we recommend only valuable products.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/df527a67-9e77-4bc2-81c2-c664b7b986ff

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c28efcc1-6e19-40f5-af55-9daecc813a1d

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9d3d55d6-7f54-4ad1-95ac-064605709b51

    The MIL Network –

  • MP approves Rs. 47 crore plan to tackle human-elephant conflict

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    In a decisive move to address the escalating human-elephant conflict in southern Madhya Pradesh, the state cabinet has approved a Rs.47 crore mitigation plan aimed at safeguarding both rural communities and wildlife.

    The initiative, cleared on Tuesday, focuses on regions where wild elephants frequently traverse forest corridors and enter farmlands, rural properties, and tribal settlements—often causing extensive crop damage, property loss, and posing threats to human lives.

    Announcing the plan, Urban Development Minister and government spokesperson Kailash Vijayvargiya said that local farmers and rural populations in elephant-prone zones will be trained to handle sudden elephant encounters. These training programs will equip them with techniques to safely deter elephants and minimize losses related to crops and livelihoods.

    Forest officials report that over 150 wild elephants regularly inhabit the Bandhavgarh and Sanjay Dubri Tiger Reserves. Many migrate from neighbouring Chhattisgarh, often straying into human settlements and leading to increased risk of conflict.

    To tackle this, the state’s multi-pronged strategy will combine traditional deterrents with modern technology. Measures include chili-based barriers, citrus plantations, trip alarms, and bee-hive fences—proven low-cost methods that discourage elephants from approaching human habitats.#

    he Forest Department will lead the project, promoting coexistence through a mix of community engagement and technological solutions. These include radio bulletins, WhatsApp alerts, and a 24×7 control room to keep villagers informed about elephant movements and provide real-time guidance.

    In a forward-looking step, the plan also incorporates AI and satellite-based tracking systems to monitor elephant herds and issue early warnings to at-risk areas.

    The urgency of the situation was underlined by a tragic incident six months ago, when 11 elephants died after consuming fungus-infected Kodo crops—allegedly sown by local farmers. In retaliation, one elephant killed two people, sparking intense debate and prompting the government to fast-track mitigation efforts.

    Additional elephant presence has been confirmed in the forested zones of Rewa and Shahdol divisions, highlighting the need for proactive and sustained intervention across the state.

    (With IANS inputs)

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    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

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    Email: support@7bitcasino.com

    Disclaimer & Affiliate Disclosure

    The information in this article is for informational and promotional purposes only and is not intended as legal, financial, or professional advice. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy, no warranties are made regarding completeness or timeliness. Readers should verify information independently. The publisher and affiliates are not liable for losses or consequences from using this content.

    This article may contain affiliate links, which may earn a commission at no cost to readers. Affiliate relationships do not influence editorial integrity, and all evaluations are based on independent research. Gambling is intended for those of legal age (19+ in some jurisdictions) and carries financial risks. Gamble responsibly and seek help from organizations like GambleAware if needed.

    All trademarks are the property of their respective owners. This content is not endorsed by any brands unless stated.

    By reading this article, you acknowledge that you do so at your own risk and hold the publisher and affiliates harmless from any liability.

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