NewzIntel.com

Category: Politics

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Strengthening European rail infrastructure to enhance defence preparedness and strategic resilience – E-001745/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001745/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Dan-Ştefan Motreanu (PPE)

    The Community of European Railway and Infrastructure Companies (CER) has called on political leaders, businesses and stakeholders to prioritise investment in rail infrastructure and rolling stock in order to support the EU’s defence capabilities and resilience. In the current geopolitical context, the ability to efficiently transport military assets is crucial. Railways serve as the backbone of Europe’s defence logistics, underpinning both military mobility and broader strategic objectives.

    CER’s position paper of 18 February 2025 identifies key actions needed, including expanding rail network capacity and interoperability, investing in digital systems, replenishing and adapting rolling stock for military purposes, safeguarding infrastructure against cyberthreats and hybrid threats, and strengthening intermodal connections.

    This need is even more pressing in Member States such as Romania, which, due to its proximity to conflict zones, plays a critical role in ensuring rapid and secure military mobility. Modern and resilient infrastructure in these border regions is vital for the EU’s collective security and for maintaining supply chains that are under strain.

    In the light of these strategic imperatives, what measures does the Commission intend to propose to strengthen targeted investment in rail infrastructure and military mobility, particularly in frontline Member States, to ensure Europe’s resilience and defence readiness?

    Submitted: 30.4.2025

    Last updated: 8 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Chairs appointed to Poverty and Equality Commission for Highland

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Maggie Cunningham and Dr. Jim McCormick have been appointed as co-chairs of a new multi-partnership Poverty and Equality Commission Board.

    These two key appointments will be instrumental in supporting The Highland Council and Community Planning Partners in gaining a better understanding of how poverty affects families in the Highlands and how service delivery needs to change to better address poverty-related issues.

    Maggie Cunningham worked at a senior level in the BBC for over twenty years including roles of Head of Radio, Scotland and Joint Head of Programmes and Services, Scotland. She is currently Chair of An Comunn Gàidhealach, which runs the Royal National Mòd and supports 20 local Mòds.

    Since 2009, she has worked as a leadership and executive coach. She served six years as a Content Board member of Ofcom until October 2024 and chaired the Board of MG Alba for six years from 2012. She chairs Kyle and Lochalsh Community Development Trust and was an independent member of the Edinburgh Festivals Forum for eight years. She was a founding Board member of Sistema Scotland until 2019 and is a Director of Highland Tourism Community Interest Company (CIC).

    Jim McCormick is Chief Executive of The Robertson Trust, an independent grant-making charity which funds, supports and influences solutions to poverty and trauma across Scotland. He joined the Trust in 2020.

    Previously he was Associate Director Scotland with the Joseph Rowntree Foundation (2017-20), ran an independent research consultancy and was Director of the Scottish Council Foundation think-tank.

    He is a member of the Living Wage Commission. He was previously Chair of the independent Disability and Carers Benefits Advisory Group reporting to the Scottish Social Security Minister (until 2023), Chair of the Edinburgh Poverty Commission (2018-20) and a member of the Social Security Advisory Committee (SSAC) until 2020, which scrutinises the Department for Work and Pensions’ GB regulations.

    In 2018 he was a travelling Churchill Fellow looking at the impact of mentoring programmes for children and young people facing disadvantage in the USA, Canada and New Zealand.

    Leader of the Council, Cllr Raymond Bremner said: “I congratulate Maggie Cunningham and Jim McCormick on their appointments as Chairs of the Poverty and Equality Commission. Highland Councillors have given cross-party support to the creation of the Commission, and I look forward to the progressive and positive work of the Commission that will make a difference to people’s lives.”

    Convener of the Councillor, Cllr Bill Lobban added: “As non-elected independent experts the co-chair appointments will ensure that there is impartial expertise at the centre of the Commission’s Board and its activities. I welcome the Chairs’ appointments who, along with Members of the Commission Board will work to identify strategies, actions and approaches to ease and prevent poverty in Highland.”

    Leader of the Opposition, Cllr Alasdair Christie said: “I am fully supportive of the appointment of the two new chairs who will bring a breadth of knowledge and understanding to the work of the Poverty and Equality Commission. Their specialist awareness will help to support the Commission’s work which will seek to improve the lives of many individuals and children and their families across Highland communities.”

    The Poverty and Equality Commission will report directly to The Highland Council, providing recommendations for action, change and transformation. Updates from the Commission will

    In addition to the two co-chairs appointed the Commission Board will be made up of elected Highland councillors and members from public sector partner organisations, third sector or community representatives.

    The first meeting of the Poverty and Equality Commission was held on 1 May 2025 following which an update on progress to establish the Poverty and Equality Commission will be presented to The Highland Council meeting in June.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Advancing EU efforts to fully implement the rights of persons with disabilities – E-001744/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001744/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Dan-Ştefan Motreanu (PPE)

    A recent report by the European Disability Forum (EDF) highlights areas where the EU could further strengthen its compliance with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), ratified by the EU in 2011. The report points to challenges such as the need for more systematic assessments of legislation’s impact on persons with disabilities, a more robust anti-discrimination framework and the removal of remaining barriers to freedom of movement and political participation.

    While significant progress has been made, the EDF underlines the opportunity for the EU to adopt a more coherent and ambitious approach to promote the rights of the 100 million Europeans with disabilities. Strengthening these rights is essential not only for upholding fundamental values of dignity, equality and inclusion, but also for enabling millions of citizens to participate fully in society, education, employment and democratic life.

    In this context, and in view of the upcoming UN review, what further measures does the Commission intend to take to strengthen the protection of the rights of persons with disabilities and ensure the full and effective implementation of the CRPD at EU level?

    Submitted: 30.4.2025

    Last updated: 8 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Potential fraudulent exploitation of Erasmus+ funds – E-001738/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001738/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Danuše Nerudová (PPE)

    Media reports have highlighted that certain organisations, including the Turkish organisation Zift, may be potentially misusing the Erasmus+ programme. A recurring scheme reportedly involves the recruitment of individuals – often students – to establish non-governmental organisations or so-called informal youth groups in their names. Such entities are then allegedly used to apply for grants, while actual control and financial management remain with the recruiting organisations. Reports suggest that these actors have submitted inflated budgets, misrepresented expenses and diverted funds through affiliated companies, often without providing the intended educational or cultural activities. When these projects collapse, the students – who are listed as legal representatives – are said to be left financially and legally liable.

    • 1.What measures is the Commission taking to strengthen financial oversight and prevent the potential exploitation of Erasmus+ funds by fraudulent organisations?
    • 2.Is the Commission considering reforms to enhance auditing, accountability and enforcement mechanisms within Erasmus+, particularly to address the risks posed by intermediary actors involved in such schemes?

    Submitted: 30.4.2025

    Last updated: 8 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Gaza ceasefire, humanitarian aid and reconstruction – E-001245/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The European Union welcomes the Arab Recovery and Reconstruction Plan endorsed at the Cairo Summit on 4 March 2025 and is ready to engage with Arab partners, as well as with other international partners, on that basis[1].

    Any plan for the future of Gaza must provide credible solutions for reconstruction, governance and security. Recovery and reconstruction efforts must be based upon a solid political and security framework acceptable to both Israelis and Palestinians, which provides peace and security to both sides. The EU is determined that there must be no future role for Hamas in Gaza’s governance.

    In that context, the EU continues to support the Palestinian Authority and its reform agenda, also to help it prepare for its return to govern Gaza.

    On 14 April 2025, the Commission announced a multiannual Comprehensive Support Programme worth up to EUR 1.6 billion, to foster Palestinian recovery and resilience[2]. While no specific EU budget exists to support reconstruction yet, the Commission is committed to exploring available instruments to establish a contribution once conditions permit.

    The EU deplores the breakdown of the ceasefire in Gaza and calls for an immediate return to the full implementation of the ceasefire-hostage release agreement[3].

    The EU has continuously supported the efforts by the mediators and urges the parties to swiftly find a solution to prevent further loss of life.

    The EU has repeatedly called for humanitarian aid access and distribution, as well as the supply of electricity to Gaza, to be resumed immediately[4].

    • [1] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/viyhc2m4/20250320-european-council-conclusions-en.pdf
    • [2] https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_25_1055
    • [3] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/viyhc2m4/20250320-european-council-conclusions-en.pdf
    • [4] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/viyhc2m4/20250320-european-council-conclusions-en.pdf https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/statement_25_1052
    Last updated: 8 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Addressing problems relating to the Greece-Cyprus electricity interconnection project – E-001111/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission is well informed of the latest developments concerning the Great Sea Interconnector project and the associated risks regarding the project implementation schedule.

    The Commission is in regular contact with the Greek and Cypriot authorities, at both Ministerial and technical level, as well as with the energy regulatory authorities of the two countries and the project promoter.

    As a project of common interest under the regulation (EU) 2022/869 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 May 2022 on guidelines for trans-European energy infrastructure (‘TEN-E Regulation’)[1], the Great Sea Interconnector continues to have the full support of the European Commission, as it is intended to end the energy isolation of Cyprus, allow for a higher share of renewables in its energy mix, bring the potential to lower energy prices for consumers and increase the security of energy supply of two EU Member States and the EU system altogether.

    Projects of common interest are closely monitored by the Commission and there are regular contacts with both governments concerned. So far, the designation of a European coordinator under Article 6 of the TEN-E Regulation has not been considered for the project in question.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2022/869/oj
    Last updated: 8 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Job losses in the German automotive industry – Commission countermeasures – E-001251/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission is fully aware that the European automotive sector is facing a critical turning point. The sector is undergoing a structural transformation as the global shift to clean and digital mobility is accelerating, while rapid technological changes and increasing competition are posing significant challenges.

    At the same time, the sector faces global supply chain risks and dependencies on raw materials and battery imports, an over-reliance on fossil fuels, fierce competition for talent, cost gaps in key inputs, and an increasingly volatile geopolitical context.

    This is why, on 5 March 2025, the Commission adopted an Industrial Action Plan for the European automotive sector, building on the Strategic Dialogue on the Future of the European Automotive Industry[1].

    The action plan stresses that the CO2 standards provide long-term certainty and predictability for investors along the value chain, while allowing sufficient lead time for a fair transition.

    It sets out a comprehensive set of measures to ensure a fair and socially equitable transition in the sector and to guarantee its international competitiveness, prioritising high-quality jobs and supporting workers through the changes ahead.

    To address the employment challenges that come with the transition, the EU has already put in place various initiatives, such as funding from the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+) and the European Globalisation Fund for Displaced Workers (EGF).

    In 2026, support through Erasmus+ grants of up to EUR 90 million will be made available for the relevant Large-Scale Skills Partnerships, including the one for the automotive sector . The Commission will also set up a European Fair Transition Observatory, which will identify future job risks and skills gaps.

    • [1] https://transport.ec.europa.eu/document/download/89b3143e-09b6-4ae6-a826-932b90ed0816_en?filename=Communication%20-%20Action%20Plan.pdf

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Implementation of safe and secure parking areas – E-001308/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Regulation (EU) 2024/1679[1] introduced the obligation for the Member States to ensure, by 31 December 2040, the development of safe and secure parking areas (SSPAs) certified in accordance with EU standards along the roads of the core and extended core trans-European transport network (TEN-T), with an average maximum distance of 150 kilometres between two SSPAs.

    The Commission supports the Member States in their efforts to build more SSPAs, notably by providing funding under the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) .

    For the realisation of projects across the EU, CEF Transport made available EUR 250 million each in 2022 and 2023, and EUR 320 million for the call for proposals of 2024, supporting both the creation of new SSPAs and the upgrade of existing parking areas in line with EU safety and security standards .

    Since 2022, when the Commission adopted the Delegated Regulation (EU) 2022/1012[2], 35 SSPAs have been built and certified in the EU, providing 4 943 parking spots. Furthermore, the realisation of 49 CEF projects is currently ongoing, with 4 614 parking places in SSPAs expected to be added.

    The Commission recognises numerous advantages in public-private partnerships (PPPs) for accelerating the implementation of SSPAs.

    Firstly, PPPs can alleviate the financial burden on governments while introducing expertise and innovative technologies, thereby enhancing project efficiency and quality.

    Secondly, by transferring certain risks to private partners, PPPs ensure more reliable and timely project delivery. Lastly, leveraging private financing reduces the reliance on public funds, thus expediting the development process and fostering economic growth.

    • [1] Regulation (EU) 2024/1679 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 June 2024 on Union guidelines for the development of the trans-European transport network, amending Regulations (EU) 2021/1153 and (EU) No 913/2010 and repealing Regulation (EU) No 1315/2013 (OJ L 2024/1679, 28.6.2024).
    • [2] Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2022/1012 of 7 April 2022 supplementing Regulation (EC) No 561/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council with regard to the establishment of standards detailing the level of service and security of safe and secure parking areas and to the procedures for their certification (OJ L 170, 28.6.2022, p. 27).

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Making use of the infrastructure that has been implemented in Greece and that can ensure the energy security of the EU – E-000579/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Between August 2022 to December 2024, the EU has reduced its natural gas demand by 18% compared to the average of the years 2017-2021, resulting in 175 billion cubic meters (bcm) of gas saved.

    As substantiated in the impact assessment of the Climate Target Plan 2040[1], the projections show 90 bcm of gaseous fuels (including biogas and biomethane) will still be used by 2050. Gaseous fuels will be part of our energy mix in the future but at a reduced level and in cleaner form, including biogas and biomethane.

    The Central and South-Eastern Europe Energy Connectivity (CESEC) High-Level Group is working on maximising the use of the Trans-Balkan Pipeline, which can significantly contribute to the regional diversification of supply.

    CESEC has been addressing barriers to its full use, notably gas quality, regulatory barriers (including tariffs) and market barriers. Through CESEC, the Commission follows the evolution of the Vertical Corridor while maintaining that maximised use of existing natural gas infrastructure should be a pre-condition to capacity developments.

    The EU-Türkiye High-Level Energy Dialogue was suspended in 2019 following Turkish unauthorised drilling activities in the East-Med region.

    The Commission and the High Representative presented a Joint Communication on EU-Türkiye relations[2] in November 2023 recommending that the High-Level Energy Dialogue be reopened, under strict conditions.

    In April 2024, EU Leaders underlined that the EU has a strategic interest in a stable and secure environment in the Eastern Mediterranean and in a cooperative and mutually beneficial relationship with Türkiye and tasked the Committee of the Permanent Representatives of the Governments of the Member States to the European Union (Coreper) to advance work on the recommendations of the Joint Communication in a phased, proportionate and reversible manner.

    • [1] SWD/2024/63 final (https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A52024SC0063).
    • [2] JOIN(2023) 50 final (https://enlargement.ec.europa.eu/joint-communication-european-council-state-play-eu-turkiye-political-economic-and-trade-relations-0_en).

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – The human rights factor in the country benchmarking methodology annex of the EU Deforestation-free Products Regulation – E-000753/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. The annex to the Strategic Framework for International Cooperation Engagement[1] presents the general principles of the benchmarking methodology. It relies on quantitative criteria based on scientific evidence and internationally recognised latest available data, primarily from the Global Forest Resources Assessment by the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations.

    The benchmarking methodology allows to have a specific approach to the countries which are at the lower or higher end of the standard risk category, and that these countries will be a priority for the Commission to engage with. A qualitative methodology will support the dialogues that will be conducted with these countries, based on EU Deforestation Regulation ( EUDR)[2] Article 29 (4) criteria such as existence and implementation of laws protecting human rights, the rights of indigenous peoples, local communities and other customary tenure rights holders.

    2. In the framework of this exercise, the EUDR Article 29 (4) also states that information submitted by non-governmental organisations and third parties, including indigenous peoples, local communities and civil society organisations may be take into account and therefore be part of such assessment.

    • [1] https://green-business.ec.europa.eu/document/download/98053bb7-bb73-4157-bf35-a9ffa35e2ee2_en?filename=Annex%20to%20Communication%20Strategic%20Framework%20for%20International%20Cooperation%20EUDR.pdf
    • [2] Regulation (EU) 2023/1115 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 31 May 2023 on the making available on the Union market and the export from the Union of certain commodities and products associated with deforestation and forest degradation and repealing Regulation (EU) No 995/2010, OJ L 150, 9.6.2023, p. 206-247.
    Last updated: 8 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Members seek to broaden ITA participation, examine links with AI and e-commerce

    Source: World Trade Organization

    Members agreed to organize three thematic sessions from the autumn of 2025 to the end of 2026. The first will be on “The Opportunities of ITA Participation: Participants’ and Stakeholders’ Experiences” with a view to expanding participation in the ITA and ITA Expansion Agreement. The second will focus on the ITA’s role in promoting artificial intelligence and other new technologies. The third session will look into the ITA’s role in supporting e-commerce and addressing the digital divide. The Chair of the ITA Committee, Mr. Ta-Lin (Peter) Shih (Chinese Taipei), said the WTO Secretariat and interested members will work together to follow up on the details of these sessions and keep the Committee informed of further developments.

    The Chair also updated members on his consultations on furthering discussions on non-tariff measures (NTMs) imposed by governments to regulate trade, which members further discussed at the meeting.

    Suggestions included focusing on NTMs imposed on the most traded ITA products, such as mobile phones and computers, and tackling NTMs related to the remanufacturing of electronic products, which refers to disassembling and repairing used devices. Members also suggested organizing joint sessions with the Committee on Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT), undertaking a survey to identify NTMs participants would like to discuss, and revitalizing the NTMs working group. The Chair encouraged members to elaborate on their suggestions at the next meeting, adding that the next chair could consult on creating a new NTM work programme. The Chairperson of the Goods Council is consulting with members regarding chairpersons for subsidiary bodies, including the ITA Committee.

    ITA product classifications

    In response to members’ requests, the Secretariat provided a working document containing guidance on how to update the classification of 22 IT products so that they align with the 2022 version of the Harmonized System (HS) — the system used for classifying traded goods and determining the tariffs applied to them. Members have not so far agreed on common HS codes for these 22 products, which include flat panel displays and network equipment. The Secretariat noted that the document is prepared on its own responsibility based on its best judgement on how the classifications should evolve, adding that it has asked the World Customs Organization for feedback on the document.

    The European Union; Japan; Hong Kong, China; and the United Kingdom thanked the Secretariat for this new initiative and the way forward proposed, indicating that they would study the working document, with several noting that it represents a good start to resolving classification divergences among members and ensuring the healthy functioning of the ITA.

    ITA implementation issues raised at the meeting included concerns about Indonesia’s and Egypt’s import duties on IT products and mobile phones considered by participants to be covered by the ITA. These concerns have also been raised at previous meetings.

    Next meeting

    The next meeting is tentatively scheduled for 4 November. Additional meetings may be convened as required.

    Share

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-Evening Report: As Filipinos prepare to vote, ex-strongman Rodrigo Duterte’s arrest is dividing families – all the way to the president

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Noel Morada, Visiting Professor, Nelson Mandela Centre, Chulalongkorn University; and Research Fellow, Asia Pacific Centre for the Responsibility to Protect, Chulalongkorn University

    It’s been two months since former Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte was arrested and handed over to the International Criminal Court (ICC) to face potential prosecution for crimes against humanity.

    Duterte’s arrest has angered his supporters and caused polarisation to worsen in the lead-up to important parliamentary elections on May 12.

    The election could be a referendum on the current president, Ferdinand Marcos Jr., whose approval rating fell to 25% in March after Duterte’s arrest. It had been 42% a month earlier.

    Duterte’s daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte, meanwhile, has seen her approval rating increase to 59%, despite the fact she was impeached by the House of Representatives earlier this year for threatening to assassinate Marcos.

    Some of Marcos’ former allies are now drifting towards Sara Duterte, potentially setting her up for a successful run for the presidency herself in 2028.

    Family feuding

    Marcos is not only dealing with the resentment of some segments of the public, he’s also facing a challenge from his own sister, Imee Marcos, a senator.

    Imee Marcos conducted several hearings in the Senate to probe into the procedures followed by the national police and other government agencies in implementing Duterte’s arrest warrant, which had been issued through Interpol.

    Right from the start, she denounced Duterte’s surrender to the ICC as a violation of the Philippine constitution and the country’s sovereignty. She asserted the court did not have jurisdiction over the Philippines after it withdrew from the Rome Statute in 2019.

    In a press conference on April 29, Imee Marcos announced a Senate committee is recommending the filing of criminal charges against the head of the Department of Justice and other officials who arrested and turned him over to the ICC. On May 7, the ombudsman asked these officials to respond to the Senate committee complaint within 10 days.

    Imee Marcos has political motivations of her own for acting in this way. She is seeking another term herself and has been trailing in public opinion polls.

    To make the political machinations even more complex, Sara Duterte has now endorsed Imee Marcos’ bid for re-election. Some of Duterte’s supporters, however, have been sceptical about Marcos’ motives in conducting the hearings.

    Controlling the narrative

    Though Duterte’s arrest has dominated the headlines in the Philippines, it’s unclear whether Marcos’ declining popularity as president is tied solely to this incident.

    Many Filipinos supported Duterte’s arrest, according to one poll in March. And Marcos’ government has also been criticised for the state of the economy.

    But at least one observer has pointed to the Duterte family’s effective use of Tiktok to control the narrative around his arrest, portraying it as a kidnapping. Sara Duterte has recently claimed her name is on the ICC prosecutor’s list of those who will be arrested next.

    It is also important to note Duterte’s supporters have resorted to the dissemination of fake news and disinformation against the Marcos administration. His supporters have also aimed their attacks on the ICC pre-trial judges, as well as victims of the drugs war during Duterte’s time in office.

    The 2028 presidential race

    The outcome of the elections in the Philippines next week will no doubt have short- and medium-term implications for the country’s politics.

    First, if all nine of the Senate candidates backed by the Marcos administration win, they would expand his bloc of supporters in the chamber. This bloc may then vote to convict Sara Duterte when her impeachment case moves to a Senate trial.

    If she’s convicted, she would be banned from running for president in 2028. But it’s uncertain if two-thirds of senators would vote to convict – the threshold necessary for impeachment. Some pro-Marcos and independent senators may be wary of antagonising loyal Duterte supporters.

    If Sara Duterte is acquitted, this would likely only boost her bid for the presidency.

    The ICC’s pre-trial chamber will hold a hearing in September that will be watched closely by pro- and anti-Duterte forces in the Philippines. On May 8, the chamber rejected a petition filed by Duterte’s defence team to excuse two judges over alleged bias.

    His loyal supporters will likely increase their attacks against the ICC, the victims of Duterte’s drugs war, and the Marcos administration through the use of fake news and disinformation as the trial progresses.

    If Duterte is convicted by the court prior to the 2028 election, it will certainly be used as a campaign issue by both sides, too. And this will only further worsen polarisation in the Philippines.

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

    – ref. As Filipinos prepare to vote, ex-strongman Rodrigo Duterte’s arrest is dividing families – all the way to the president – https://theconversation.com/as-filipinos-prepare-to-vote-ex-strongman-rodrigo-dutertes-arrest-is-dividing-families-all-the-way-to-the-president-255600

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Experts split on Australia’s Papua New Guinea military recruitment plan

    By Caleb Fotheringham, RNZ Pacific journalist

    Australia’s plan to recruit from Papua New Guinea for its Defence Force raises “major ethical concerns”, according to the Australia Defence Association, while another expert thinks it is broadly a good idea.

    The two nations are set to begin negotiating a new defence treaty that is expected to see Papua New Guineans join the Australian Defence Force (ADF).

    Australia Defence Association executive director Neil James believes “it’s an idiot idea” if there is no pathway to citizenship for Papua New Guineans who serve in the ADF

    “You can’t expect other people to defend your country if you’re not willing to do it and until this scheme actually addresses this in any detail, we’re not going to know whether it’s an idiot idea or it’s something that might be workable in the long run.”

    However, an expert associate at the Australian National University’s National Security College, Jennifer Parker, believes it is a good idea.

    “Australia having a closer relationship with Papua New Guinea through that cross pollination of people going and working in each other’s defence forces, that’s incredibly positive.”

    Parker said recruiting from the Pacific has been an ongoing conversation, but the exact nature of what the recruitment might look like is unknown, including whether there is a pathway to citizenship or if there would be a separate PNG unit within the ADF.

    Extreme scenario
    When asked whether it was ethical for people from PNG to fight Australia’s wars, Parker said that would be an extreme scenario.

    “We’re not talking about conscripting people from other countries or anything like that. We’re talking about offering the opportunity for people, if they choose to join,” she said.

    “There are many defence forces around the world where people choose, people who are born in other countries, choose to join.”

    However, James disagrees.

    “Whether they’re volunteers or whether they’re conscripted, you’re still expecting foreigners to defend your society and with no link to that society.”

    Both Parker and James brought up concerns surrounding brain drain.

    James said in Timor-Leste, in the early 2000s, many New Zealanders in the army infantry who were serving alongside Australia joined the Australian Army, attracted by the higher pay, which was not in the interest of New Zealand or Australia in the long run.

    Care needed
    “You’ve got to be real careful that you don’t ruin the Papua New Guinea Defence Force by making it too easy for Papua New Guineans to serve in the Australian Defence Force.”

    Parker said the policy needed to be crafted very clearly in conjunction with Papua New Guinea to make sure it strengthened the two nations relationship, not undermined it.

    Australia aims to grow the number of ADF uniformed personnel to 80,000 by 2040. However, it is not on track to meet that target.

    Parker said she did not think Australia was trying to fill the shortfall.

    “There are a couple of challenges in the recruitment issues for the Australian Defence Force.

    “But I don’t think the scoping of recruiting people from Papua New Guinea and the Pacific Islands, if it indeed goes ahead, is about addressing recruitment for the Australian Defence Force.

    “I think it’s about increasing closer security ties between Papua New Guinea, the Pacific Islands, and Australia.”

    This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Cuba Revokes Conditional Release of José Daniel Ferrer and Félix Navarro

    Source: Amnesty International –

    On 8 May, Amnesty International launched an urgent action demanding the immediate and unconditional release of opposition leaders and prisoners of conscience José Daniel Ferrer García and Félix Navarro, and all those unjustly imprisoned for merely exercising their human rights in Cuba.

    On 29 April, the Cuban authorities announced that they had revoked the conditional release of José Daniel Ferrer and Félix Navarro. Both were released from prison last January in a process marred by irregularities. Since then, they have been threatened, harassed, and arbitrarily detained multiple times for their political activism, their denunciation of human rights violations and even for their humanitarian work. “José Daniel and Félix have once again been jailed unjustly and arbitrarily. Like thousands of others in recent decades, they have been victims of the Cuban authorities’ repressive pattern of using conditional release for surveillance and political control”, said Ana Piquer, Amnesty International’s Americas director.

    José Daniel and Félix have once again been jailed unjustly and arbitrarily. Like thousands of others in recent decades, they have been victims of the Cuban authorities’ repressive pattern of using conditional release for surveillance and political control

    Ana Piquer, Amnesty International’s Americas director

    Félix Navarro was detained in the early hours of 29 April at his home as he was getting ready to visit his daughter, Saylí Navarro, who is also a prisoner of conscience. Relatives and neighbours reported a major surveillance operation with no warrant during the arrest. Until 2 May there was no certainty as to Felix’s whereabouts or legal status, meaning that he was subjected to enforced disappearance for more than 72 hours.

    Simultaneously, a large police contingent also detained José Daniel Ferrer, his wife, his five-year-old son, and five other associates inside his home. José Daniel’s wife and son were released hours later, and the activists were released later in the week. His relatives and neighbours confirmed that the police used violence in the assault on his house, which is also the headquarters of the Unión Patriótica de Cuba, an organization led by Ferrer, and that his property was looted. José Daniel remains forcibly disappeared. Although his family has received unofficial word that he is being held at the Mar Verde prison, they have received no official communication about his whereabouts or legal status. His family has had no direct contact with him and has serious concerns about his health and physical integrity, since he has twice been denied visits with his wife.

    The Vice-President of the People’s Supreme Court issued a press release to inform international press agencies and media of the decision to revoke both men’s conditional release. The release confirms that the provincial courts revoked their conditional release and ordered that they be imprisoned again.

    The press release’s allegations reveal the political motives for the imprisonment, referencing José Daniel and Félix’s decades of political activism and struggle for human rights. The authorities again used the official media to discredit them, stigmatize their activism and make an example of them to intimidate other activists and human rights defenders.

    “The Cuban government has used these releases as bargaining chips in geopolitical games and in doing so has toyed with the desires and rights of these people and thousands of their relatives. It has offered no guarantees of justice, non-repetition or reparation for the victims,” said Ana Piquer.

    The Cuban government has used these releases as bargaining chips in geopolitical games and in doing so has toyed with the desires and rights of these people and thousands of their relatives. It has offered no guarantees of justice, non-repetition or reparation for the victims

    Ana Piquer, Amnesty International’s Americas director

    Since the January releases were announced, human rights organizations have denounced a lack of transparency in how they were carried out, excessive restrictions for those who were released, a tendency by the Cuban government to use people as pawns for political negotiation, and a constant risk of being arbitrarily sent back to prison. The reincarceration of José Daniel Ferrer and Félix Navarro confirms these organizations’ fears and points to the persistence of a highly repressive context where all forms of dissidence are systematically criminalized.

    Amnesty International calls on the Cuban authorities to provide official, accurate and timely information on the legal status, physical integrity and place of detention of José Daniel and Félix, as well as to immediately guarantee their access to legal assistance, medicines and family visits.

    The organization demands the immediate and unconditional release of prisoners of conscience José Daniel Ferrer, Félix Navarro, Loreto Hernández, Roberto Pérez Fonseca, Saylí Navarro, Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara and Maykel Castillo, as well as the immediate and unconditional release of all who have been imprisoned for simply exercising their human rights in Cuba.

    “The Cuban authorities must cease to threaten, harass, arbitrarily arrest and forcibly disappear activists, human rights defenders and journalists in Cuba. They must also immediately repeal any laws and regulations that enable the state to criminalize dissent and peaceful protest and thwart efforts to defend human rights,” said Ana Piquer.

    The Cuban authorities must cease to threaten, harass, arbitrarily arrest and forcibly disappear activists, human rights defenders and journalists in Cuba. They must also immediately repeal any laws and regulations that enable the state to criminalize dissent and peaceful protest and thwart efforts to defend human rights

    Ana Piquer, Amnesty International’s Americas director

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: India/Pakistan: Urgent need to protect civilians amidst escalating hostilities

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Responding to the escalating armed engagement between India and Pakistan, Carolyn Horn, Programme Director for Law and Policy at Amnesty International said:

    “The escalation of hostilities between India and Pakistan has already taken a toll on civilians. Amnesty International is concerned by reports of loss of civilian lives in both India and Pakistan. In every armed conflict, protecting civilians is paramount— it’s a fundamental principle of international humanitarian law which binds all nations. Deliberate, indiscriminate or disproportionate attacks harming civilians or damaging civilian infrastructure such as homes, hospitals, schools, and essential services, are strictly prohibited under the Geneva Conventions and their additional protocols and under customary international law.

    “Amnesty International calls on the governments of India and Pakistan to uphold their obligations under both international human rights and humanitarian law. They must take all necessary measures to protect civilians and minimize any suffering and casualties in both countries. As forces from both countries are now engaged in open hostilities, Amnesty International insists that neither security nor justice will be achieved with the senseless loss of more civilian lives.

    In every armed conflict, protecting civilians is paramount.

    Carolyn Horn, Programme Director for Law and Policy at Amnesty International

    “We extend our condolences to the families on both sides of the border who have lost their loved ones and borne the devastating cost of the current escalation in what has been a long-standing conflict. We unequivocally condemn the deliberate targeting and unlawful killing of civilians by armed groups during the horrific attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, on 22nd April and call for an independent, transparent and thorough investigation to bring the suspected perpetrators of the atrocity to account through fair trials, without recourse to the death penalty.”

    Background

    India conducted several airstrikes in Pakistan and in Pakistan-administered Kashmir in the early hours on Wednesday, 7 May 2025. Pakistan officials claim that 31 people have been killed and 57 injured by the air strikes including children, women and families and claims one civilian was killed by drone-related attacks on 8 May.

    Meanwhile, India’s army claims that at least 15 civilians were killed and more than 40 injured by Pakistani shelling on its side of the line of control since the airstrikes.

    The escalation of hostilities between the two nuclear-armed countries came after the horrific killing of at least 26 civilians, mainly tourists and families, by five members of armed groups near Pahalgam in the Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir on 22 April. India claims it has evidence linking the armed attack to Pakistan – a claim Pakistan denies. Pakistan has said that India has not offered any evidence to support its claim and has requested for an independent investigation.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Lithuania: Decision to leave convention banning anti-personnel mines could put civilian lives at risk

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Reacting to a vote Lithuanian parliament to withdraw from the Ottawa convention, a landmark treaty prohibiting the use of anti-personnel mines, Esther Major, Amnesty International’s Deputy Director for Research in Europe, said:

    “Today’s decision to leave the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention is a retrograde move that will only further weaken the global consensus aimed at minimizing civilian harm during armed conflict.

    “Anti-personnel mines are inherently indiscriminate weapons. They have devastating effects on civilians, sometimes decades after they are deployed, while unexploded anti-personnel landmines can blight whole regions for generations. The use of weapons which are by their nature indiscriminate is prohibited under customary international humanitarian law.

    “This move, which follows the country’s recent withdrawal from the Convention on Cluster Munitions, is part of a disturbing trend which last month saw the Estonian government approve a proposal to withdraw from the convention, and the Latvian president sign into law a bill on the country’s exit from the treaty. We call on the Lithuanian government to reverse this decision that could put civilian lives at risk.”

    Background

    The 1997 Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention (the Ottawa treaty) bans the use, stockpiling, production, and transfer of antipersonnel mines and currently has 165 states parties.

    In March, the defence ministers of Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, and Poland issued a joint statement calling on their countries to pull out of the treaty. The Finnish government has recently initiated the process of withdrawing from the Ottawa treaty.

    Today Lithuania’s defence minister tweeted that the country will “resume mine production and acquisition”.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Africa – Invest Africa and United Kingdom (UK) Government Announce Strategic Partnership for The Africa Debate – London

    SOURCE: Invest Africa

    As the UK’s leading forum for high-level dialogue on Africa’s economic trajectory, The Africa Debate 2025 will convene over 500 senior leaders from government, finance, and industry to explore this year’s theme: “Harnessing Natural Capital for Growth”

    LONDON, United Kingdom, May 8, 2025 – Invest Africa (www.InvestAfrica.com), the leading platform for promoting trade and investment across the African continent, is proud to announce a strategic partnership with the UK Government for the 11th edition of The Africa Debate, taking place on Wednesday, 2 July 2025 at the historic Guildhall in the City of London.

    As the UK’s leading forum for high-level dialogue on Africa’s economic trajectory, The Africa Debate 2025 will convene over 500 senior leaders from government, finance, and industry to explore this year’s theme: “Harnessing Natural Capital for Growth”. The agenda will examine how African nations can leverage their abundant resources – from critical minerals and biodiversity to human capital – to build globally competitive industries, enhance intra-African value chains, and deliver inclusive, sustainable development.  

    The event comes at a strategically important moment: just over one year into the new UK Government, as it sets out a renewed international agenda focused on trade, investment, and strategic partnership with Africa.

    The Rt Hon. the Lord Collins of Highbury, Minister for Africa, commented: “The UK recognises the critical role Africa plays in the global economy and in shaping a sustainable, inclusive future. We are proud to support The Africa Debate as a strategic platform to deepen trade and investment ties with African partners and boost mutual economic growth between our countries. Our ambition in our new approach to Africa is to support the scale-up of transformative green growth across the continent – and the UK stands ready to be a long-term, trusted partner in that journey.”

    Chantelé Carrington, Chief Executive Officer of Invest Africa, added: “Our collaboration with the UK Government is a major milestone for The Africa Debate. With a new administration in place, this is a crucial opportunity to shape a modern and meaningful UK-Africa relationship centred on mutual benefit. As African economies focus on industrialisation, value addition, and sustainable investment, we are proud to offer a platform that connects the UK’s financial expertise and private sector strength with Africa’s vast economic potential.”

    The Africa Debate 2025 will feature head of state and ministerial keynotes, alongside high-level plenaries and curated side events that convene senior leaders from across Africa and the global investment community. This year’s agenda will examine how the continent can harness its natural capital – through the lenses of finance, industrialisation, and digital innovation – to drive long-term value creation and sustainable development. Our strategic partnership reflects the UK’s commitment to forging deeper, future-oriented relationships with African partners – focused on mobilising investment at scale, promoting inclusive economic growth, and co-creating resilient solutions to shared global challenges.

    Websites:
    Invest Africa (https://apo-opa.co/4k2YU2U)
    The Africa Debate (https://apo-opa.co/43u2xbJ)

    About The Africa Debate:
    The Africa Debate is London’s premier investment forum dedicated to shaping the future of African trade, investment, and economic transformation. Now in its 11th year, the event serves as a critical platform for global businesses, investors, policymakers, and thought leaders to engage in high-level discussions on Africa’s evolving role in the global economy.

    About Invest Africa:
    Invest Africa is a leading pan-African business and investment platform, that drives trade and investment across the continent. With over sixty years’ experience in Africa, we provide our network with trusted market insights, tailored business support, and platforms for meaningful engagement. Our network includes more than 400 multinational corporations, investors, policy makers, and entrepreneurs, united by a shared commitment to building sustainable opportunity across Africa.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Speech to India New Zealand Business Council

    Source: NZ Music Month takes to the streets

    Kia ora and good morning, everyone.

    This is a great time to hold a Summit focused on the India-New Zealand relationship. It comes seven weeks after I returned from India following one of New Zealand’s largest ever Prime Ministerial missions.

    I was joined by 40 business representatives, 15 community leaders, three Cabinet Ministers, four MPs, a Kapa Haka group, and a range of senior government officials all laser-focused on our relationship with India. 

    We visited New Delhi and Mumbai for a packed programme that covered every facet of our broad-based relationship with India – political connections, trade and economics, defence and security, people, culture and, of course, cricket. 

    As was the case on my previous visits to India when I was in the private sector with Unilever, I was struck by the remarkable energy, dynamism, and innovation that I encountered. 

    I concluded the mission more convinced than ever that India is a country of enormous consequence for New Zealand and for the world.

    So, I want to spend some time reflecting on the mission and talking about some of the outcomes in three key areas. First, economic opportunities; second, defence and security; and third, in terms of people and culture. 

    I then want to set out what I see as the next steps in the relationship.

    Economic opportunities

    First, I want to talk about the economic opportunities we saw in India, and what we are doing to capitalise on them. 

    I’m sure everyone here is familiar with India’s amazing growth story. The fastest GDP growth rate in the G20, with India on track to become the world’s third-largest economy in the next few years, and the Indian middle class now numbers 445 million. 

    When I met with Prime Minister Modi, I had a chance to discuss with him India’s extraordinary transformation. Over the past decade, 250 million Indians have been lifted out of poverty; the number of airports in India has more than doubled to 157, with many more planned in the coming years; and India’s government estimates that it has built 95,000 kilometres of highway. To put this last one in perspective, that would be enough highway to drive between New Zealand and India eight times.  

    Globally, India is a consequential and influential voice, successfully hosting the G20 in 2023, and a space power, becoming the first country to land a spacecraft on the moon’s South Pole two years ago.

    While in India, I had discussions with business leaders who are running companies doing incredible things. Innovators like Nadir Godrej, responsible for one of India’s biggest, oldest and best-known industrial groups, and Natarajan Chandrasekaran who chairs Tata, a conglomerate with a presence in dozens of countries around the world. It was inspiring to hear of their plans and, importantly, to pitch to them on the value of closer connections with New Zealand.

    For New Zealand, the economic opportunities in India are immense. Despite India’s growth and scale, it still only accounts for 1.5 per cent of our exports. We are working hard to change that. That was why I took so many business leaders with me to India. That’s why we worked so hard while in New Delhi and Mumbai to ensure New Zealand’s primary products, our technology, our education exports and our tourism offering were front and centre.  

    It is Kiwi and Indian businesses, including all of those in this room today, that are the engines of growth, creating new opportunities, lifting trade, and helping transform the relationship between our countries. And for all your ongoing effort and leadership in this regard, I thank you. 

    Part of my Government’s job is to improve the environment in which our great Kiwi businesses operate in their dealings with India. On that front, I am pleased to report that, during the mission to India, the Government made real progress. 

    First and foremost, I was delighted that Todd McClay and his Indian counterpart, Piyush Goyal, announced the launch of negotiations towards a Free Trade Agreement. The launch of negotiations is a breakthrough in the economic relationship between India and New Zealand. 

    Prime Minister Modi and I have instructed our negotiators to work quickly to reach a comprehensive and mutually beneficial agreement, one that promises to play a major role in doubling New Zealand’s exports by value over the next ten years.

    My Government is focused on growing our economy and lifting incomes, and the launch of negotiations presents an opportunity to do exactly that.

    On top of that, 33 MoUs and other commercial outcomes were progressed on the mission, reflecting the growing partnerships between New Zealand and Indian businesses. 

    Among those was an MoU between Air New Zealand and Air India to establish a new codeshare partnership on 16 routes between India, Singapore, Australia and New Zealand. The MoU will also see these two great airlines explore the introduction of a direct service between India and New Zealand by the end of 2028. 

    This is a fantastic opportunity that promises to make it easier to fly between our countries and further boost our tourism and education sectors.

    Defence and security

    But there is so much more to our relationship with India than our economic ties. Which brings me to the second major theme of my visit, defence and security. 

    New Zealand is invested in supporting stability and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region. 

    In an increasingly multipolar world, India is a major geopolitical power and a significant global and regional security actor.

    Prime Minister Modi and I agreed that our defence forces should build greater strategic trust with one another, including undertaking more exchanges and training together. 

    I was pleased to witness the signing of a new Defence Cooperation Arrangement with India. This arrangement enhances defence dialogue and connections and adds an important new dimension to our strategic engagement.

    One of the reasons why we want to build greater trust is so that we can have candid conversations at challenging times. On 22 April, India suffered a devastating terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir. New Zealand condemns terrorism, and we sent our heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims of the attack.

    Since then, we have seen an escalation in tension and military activity. We encourage both India and Pakistan to show restraint at this difficult moment and try to de-escalate the situation.

    The situation in Jammu and Kashmir reminds us that we face an increasingly difficult and uncertain strategic outlook, including in the Indo‑Pacific region that India and New Zealand share.

    While I was in India, I had the great opportunity to share New Zealand’s perspective on the region as the Chief Guest at the Raisina Dialogue, which, as this audience will know, is India’s – and one of the world’s – premier defence and security events. 

    My message at Raisina was simple: There can be no prosperity without security.

    That is why it’s vitally important that New Zealand works closely with India and other partners in support of a region where countries are free to choose their own path free from interference, and where all countries respect foundational rules.  

    People-to-people links

    The third major theme of my mission centred on the links between our people. 

    New Zealand’s Indian community was a key feature of many of my discussions in India, including with Prime Minister Modi. 

    Prime Minister Modi praised New Zealand’s Indian diaspora, referring to it as a “living bridge” between our countries. Prime Minister Modi and I formally recognised the contribution of the diaspora in the joint statement released during my visit. 

    As this audience will be well aware, the 300,000-strong Indian community is the third largest ethnic group in New Zealand. India is our largest source of skilled migrants and our second-largest source of international students. 

    A point I made to Prime Minister Modi was that Kiwi-Indians are on average younger, better educated, and have greater earnings than the general New Zealand population. 

    In short, Indian-Kiwis are making a massive contribution to New Zealand. This is why I chose to take with me to India a senior delegation of community leaders.

    I made sure that my programme in India reflected and respected the deep cultural links between our countries. I paid my respects at a place sacred to many Kiwi-Hindus – the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple. And I visited Gurdwara Rakab Ganj Sahib, a place of profound faith and history to Kiwi-Sikhs. 

    Of course, another indispensable element of our partnership with India is cricket. It was very special to visit Wankhede Stadium with Mumbai-born Ajaz Patel, who took the third-best bowling figures in Test history on that ground. 

    But our sporting links go beyond cricket. Prime Minister Modi and I also discussed his plans to diversify and enhance India’s prowess across multiple sports. India is particularly interested in Olympic sports as it looks to bolster Ahmedabad’s bid to host the 2036 Olympic Games. Given our high-performance sports ecosystem and our outstanding record at the Olympics, this is an area where New Zealand is well positioned to work with India.

    I was particularly pleased to witness the signing of a Sports Memorandum of Cooperation between New Zealand and India. This arrangement allows us to develop new ways to collaborate across high-performance sports, and exchange programmes, skills, technology and innovation, research, and people.

    It should boost sports performance in each country and facilitate exchanges in areas such as community sports and health. 

    Cooperation in sports is particularly significant at a time when, next year, New Zealand and India will celebrate 100 years of sporting ties. We look forward to celebrating this milestone, including with a visit by the Indian men’s cricket team in late 2026.

    Next steps for government, business and community

    So, across people, culture, sport, defence and security, trade and economics – my mission to India left the relationship in a stronger position. But there is still a lot of work to do.

    I now want to take a few minutes to reflect on the next steps for this important relationship, and the respective roles of government, business and community. 

    I want to be clear that the mission to India was not the end goal. Rather, it was a springboard to help take our relationship to new heights. We now have an extensive work programme across every facet of the relationship. I will touch on just a couple of examples. 

    First, we have moved quickly to begin negotiations on the Free Trade Agreement, with the first round of talks already having taken place. 

    Second, our Government will be continuing a steady tempo of political-level engagements with our Indian counterparts. There is no substitute for face-to-face relationships with the key decision-makers, which is why I’m so pleased Minister Margherita has joined us today. During my meeting with Prime Minister Modi, I offered to reciprocate his warm and generous hospitality by inviting him to visit New Zealand when his schedule allows.

    Third, to give effect to the various areas of new co-operation, our Government has confirmed that we will need more people on the ground in India. New Zealand will increase our diplomatic footprint in India by more than 60 per cent, underscoring our commitment to the relationship and our ambition to see it grow further.

    The Government will be working hard to maintain the momentum, and continue building a broad, deep, and enduring strategic relationship with India. 

    But our relationship with India is far too important to be left to Government alone. There is a crucial role for two other actors in our society, business and community. 

    Our relationship with India is so significant that I want to see an ‘all of New Zealand’ effort with government, business and community all moving in the same direction. 

    The opportunities presented by India are immense. Many of you are already active in the market and have been for some years. But I want to see more New Zealand exporters building relationships in the market and putting together your own strategies for tapping into India’s enormous potential. 

    The wider Kiwi-Indian community also has a very important role as – in Prime Minister Modi’s words – the “living bridge” between New Zealand and India. 

    We will stay in touch with the senior delegation of community leaders that accompanied me to India. I encourage the Indian community in New Zealand to continue to share with the Government your insights into our relationship with India and ideas for how we can continue moving forward.

    Thank you for the opportunity to speak to you about the vital partnership between New Zealand and India.

    The INZBC have put together an excellent programme for today, featuring a range of speakers who are all committed to bringing New Zealand and India much closer together.

    The bottom line is we are two countries that can and should be doing much more together, and we will.

    Thank you.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: NITI Frontier Tech Hub Organizes a Workshop for States on Accelerating AI Datacentre Investments

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 08 MAY 2025 5:46PM by PIB Delhi

    Recognizing the critical role of AI infrastructure in shaping India’s economic future, the NITI Aayog Frontier Tech Hub hosted a high-level workshop on May 8, 2025, focused on accelerating investments in AI-ready datacentres across Indian states. The workshop brought together senior officials from key state governments, central ministries and industry leaders to chart a strategic roadmap for positioning India as a global hub for AI infrastructure.

     The deliberations spotlighted the widening gap between India’s digital ambitions and its current compute capabilities. Although India generates nearly 20% of the world’s data, it accounts for just 3% of global datacentre capacity. With AI adoption surging across sectors, the need for reliable, scalable, and sustainable AI infrastructure has never been more urgent.

     The workshop urged states to move beyond land- and real estate-centric models and embrace a new paradigm anchored in access to clean energy, high-performance computing, and streamlined policy environments. Key themes included:

    • The projected doubling of global electricity demand from datacentres and AI by 2026
    • India’s unique advantages in renewable energy, deep engineering talent, and rapidly growing digital economy
    • The need for coordinated reforms in power, policy, and regulation to attract hyperscale and sovereign AI investments

     Participants discussed the six critical pillars essential for AI datacentre readiness—land, power, network, compute, talent, and enabling policies. The conversation highlighted the urgency for states to think not just competitively within India, but globally, as countries like Vietnam, UAE, and Indonesia aggressively pursue AI investments.

     Speaking at the workshop, Shri B.V.R. Subrahmanyam, CEO of NITI Aayog, said:

     “India has a once-in-a-generation opportunity to become a global AI datacentre hub. With our clean energy leadership, unmatched tech talent, and strong policy momentum, we are well-positioned to deliver the world’s greenest and most cost-effective AI compute. But the competition is global. States must stop thinking only in terms of land and start thinking in terms of AI ecosystems — anchored in energy, innovation, and execution.”

     The workshop was organized in partnership with Deloitte, the Knowledge Partner, and featured participation from ten states and representatives from defense, ministries of MNRE, Finance, DoT and Power. Distinguished attendees included Shri Rajiv Gauba, Member, NITI Aayog; Shri B.V.R. Subrahmanyam, CEO of NITI Aayog; Ms. Debjani Ghosh, Distinguished Fellow, NITI Aayog; and Mr. Romal Shetty, CEO, Deloitte South Asia.

     A strategic report titled “Accelerating AI Infrastructure Investments in India”, providing a comprehensive blueprint to unlock national-scale AI infrastructure investments was also launched in the workshop.

     This workshop is part of the NITI Frontier Tech Hub’s ongoing efforts to drive frontier technology awareness, readiness, and policy innovation across states and ministries—strengthening India’s journey to becoming a global leader in the AI-powered intelligence economy.

    *****

    MJPS/SR

    (Release ID: 2127731) Visitor Counter : 2

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Sudan, South Sudan, UNRWA & other topics – Daily Press Briefing

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Noon briefing by Farhan Haq, Deputy Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.

    Highlights:
    – Secretary-General/ Chief Executives Board
    – Sudan
    – Sudan/ Food Assistance
    – South Sudan
    – UNRWA
    – Occupied Palestinian Territory
    – UNIFIL
    – Haiti
    – Democratic People’s Republic of Korea
    – Senior Personnel Appointment – Special Envoy to Combat Islamophobia
    – International Day

    SECRETARY-GENERAL/ CHIEF EXECUTIVES BOARD
    The Secretary-General is in Denmark, where today he is chairing the biannual session of the UN System Chief Executives Board for Coordination, also known as the CEB, which brings together the heads of the UN system organizations.
    During their biannual session, the Chief Executives Board Members will reflect on current world affairs as they affect and are related to the UN system. They will also engage in deliberations on ‘Adapting to New Realities: Leveraging the UN80 Initiative’ and ‘Upholding Respect for International Law’.

    SUDAN
    A statement we issued last night expressed the Secretary-General’s grave concern that recent drone attacks in Port Sudan, the main entry point for humanitarian aid into Sudan, threaten to increase humanitarian needs and further complicate aid operations in the country. The Secretary-General warns that this major escalation could lead to large-scale civilian casualties and further destruction of critical infrastructure.
    The Secretary-General is alarmed at the expansion of the conflict into an area that has served as a place of refuge for large numbers of people displaced from the capital, Khartoum, and other areas.   
    The Secretary-General reiterates that all parties to the conflict must comply with their obligations under international humanitarian law. They must not direct attacks against civilians and civilian objects; must take all feasible precautions to avoid, and in any event to minimize, incidental civilian casualties; and must allow and facilitate rapid and unimpeded passage of humanitarian relief for civilians in need.  
    The Secretary-General calls on the parties to engage constructively with the mediation support mechanisms already in place to assist the parties to reach a political solution, underscoring the United Nations’ continued support to help find a way out of this crisis. He renews his call for an immediate cessation of hostilities and stresses that dialogue is the only way to achieve the peace that the people of Sudan demand. The full statement is online.

    SUDAN/ FOOD ASSISTANCE
    And further on Sudan, our colleagues at the World Food Programme are saying that in Tawila, families who fled horrific violence in El Fasher have received vital food and nutrition supplies.
    WFP says that the Agency supported more people than originally planned as needs are overwhelming with hundreds of thousands displaced, and more aid is on its way in the coming week.

    SOUTH SUDAN
    Moving to South Sudan, where our mission, UNMISS, and partners—the African Union, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development or IGAD, and the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission, have jointly called on South Sudan’s leaders to cease ongoing hostilities immediately and urgently progress inclusive peace implementation.
    They urged swift, thorough and impartial investigations into security escalations so that responsible parties can be held to account and public trust, restored.

    Full Highlights: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=08%20May%202025

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sMOZA1L9xXQ

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: General Terms for the United States of America and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland Economic Prosperity Deal

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    Context and ObjectivesPresident Donald J. Trump and Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer committed to deliver shared prosperity for American and British citizens alike. Our governments have a unique opportunity to enhance our economic partnership through the U.S.-UK Economic Prosperity Deal (EPD).
    A first of its kind, the United States and the United Kingdom expect the EPD to address three core objectives, based on fairness and reciprocity:
    To grow the quality and volume of mutually beneficial trade between the United States and the United Kingdom, creating good, high-paying jobs and growth in both countries;
    To remove barriers to make it easier for American and British businesses to operate, invest and trade in both countries; and
    To ensure that the Special Relationship is rooted in an enduring economic partnership that is fair, reciprocal, future-facing, and built on a shared vision of the challenges that face our economies.
    This document serves to define the general terms for the EPD that set forth the shared desires of the United States and the United Kingdom to make bilateral trade fairer, easier, and more substantial. Alongside this document covering our trading relationship, we are continuing discussions toward a transformative technology partnership between our countries.
    The United States and United Kingdom are immediately beginning negotiations of the EPD to develop and formalize the proposals made in this document. Once the initial proposals have been formalized and implemented, the United States and United Kingdom understand that the EPD can further be expanded over time to cover additional areas. Each country intends to continue to improve market access under the EPD.
    Both the United States and the United Kingdom recognize that this document does not constitute a legally binding agreement.
    Addressing Tariffs(a) Following a reasonable period of negotiation: (i) the United Kingdom intends to reduce its applied tariff rates on a preferential basis on a range of originating goods of the United States in sectors of importance to the United States; and (ii) the United States intends to reduce its applied tariff rates on a preferential basis on a range of originating goods of the United Kingdom in sectors of importance to the United Kingdom. The countries intend to coordinate the timing of their respective tariff reductions to be as soon as practicable, taking into consideration their respective domestic processes. On request of the United Kingdom, the United States will consider reducing its applied tariff rates for a UK territory or territories for whose international relations the United Kingdom is responsible on a preferential basis.(b) U.S. beef exports to the United Kingdom are currently subject to a 20 percent tariff within a quota of 1,000 metric tons (mt). The United Kingdom will remove the 20 percent tariff. Additionally, the United Kingdom will create a preferential duty-free quota of 13,000 mt for U.S. beef. In return, the United States will reallocate to the United Kingdom 13,000 mt of its existing “Other Countries” tariff rate quota (TRQ) for beef. Additionally, the United Kingdom will offer a preferential duty-free TRQ of 1.4 billion liters for U.S. ethanol.(c) The United States intends to provide certain key UK imports with modified reciprocal tariff treatment, based on our balanced trading relationship and shared national security priorities. Any such modifications will be consistent with those shared national security priorities, including priorities identified in future U.S. Section 232 investigations.(i) The United States will create a quota of 100,000 vehicles for UK automotive imports at a 10 percent tariff rate, and an accompanying arrangement for attendant auto parts for such autos.(ii) The United Kingdom will work to promptly meet U.S. requirements on the security of the supply chains of steel and aluminum products intended for export to the United States and on the nature of ownership of relevant production facilities. Understanding the United Kingdom will meet these requirements, the United States will promptly construct a quota at most favored nation (MFN) rates for UK steel and aluminum and certain derivative steel and aluminum products.(iii) Contingent on the findings of the U.S. Section 232 investigation on pharmaceuticals and pharmaceutical ingredients, and consistent with the United Kingdom’s compliance with the supply chains security requirements described in subparagraph (ii), the United States and the United Kingdom intend to promptly negotiate significantly preferential treatment outcomes on pharmaceuticals and pharmaceutical ingredients. The United Kingdom confirms that it will endeavor to improve the overall environment for pharmaceutical companies operating in the United Kingdom.(iv) In addition to products already addressed in this document, the United States and the United Kingdom intend to adopt a structured, negotiated approach to othersectors that may be subject to Section 232 investigations or other tariff measures with a view to a significantly preferential outcome. Any such approach is contingent on the United Kingdom ensuring the security of supply chains, using appropriate measures, of products intended for export to the United States and on the findings of related U.S. investigations of, or other tariff measures related to, such sectors.(d) To ensure U.S. and UK firms can benefit from these changes in practice, both countries intend to apply rules of origin that maximize bilateral trade and prevent non-participants from using our bilateral arrangement to circumvent tariffs. The United States affirms that it intends to take into consideration during the negotiations of the EPD the United Kingdom’s request that the United States continues to work to lower tariffs on UK goods imposed by U.S. executive authority as well as those subject to Congressional approval.
    Addressing Non-Tariff Barriers(a) The United Kingdom and the United States plan to work constructively in an effort to enhance agricultural market access. Further, both countries positively support future discussions to strengthen bilateral agricultural trade. The United Kingdom and the United States affirm that imported food and agricultural goods must comply with the importing country’s sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) standards and other mutually agreed standards. The United Kingdom and the United States commit to working together to improve market access for agricultural products, to highlight concerns, and to increase agricultural cooperation on areas such as certain export verification programs to facilitate greater trade, and more formal bilateral engagement through international standard setting bodies.(b) The United Kingdom and the United States each confirms its intent to accord to conformity assessment bodies of the other treatment no less favorable than that it accords to conformity assessment bodies located in its own territory. Treatment under this paragraph includes procedures, criteria, fees, and other conditions relating to accrediting, approving, licensing, or otherwise recognizing conformity assessment bodies.(c) Both countries intend to build on an existing set of Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs) by negotiating additional agreements, as appropriate, across certain industrial goods and advance toward an agreement on services domestic regulation.(d) The United Kingdom and United States intend to discuss the principles and criteria used in order to recognize a standard as an international standard. The United Kingdom and the United States will further commit to discuss respective applicable standards for mutually agreed sectors of interest and, within those specified sectors, to agree which of the other’s relevant domiciled standards development organizations (SDOs) currently meet recognized international principles.
    Increasing Digital Trade(a) Both countries confirm that they will negotiate an ambitious set of digital trade provisions that will include within its scope services, including financial services.(b) Both countries confirm that they will negotiate provisions on paperless trade, pre-arrival processing, and digitalized procedures for the movement of goods between our countries.
    Strengthening Alignment and Collaboration on Economic Security(a) Both countries intend to strengthen cooperation on economic security, including by coordinating to address non-market policies of third countries.(b) Both countries intend to cooperate on the effective use of investment security measures, export controls, and ICT vendor security, building on the current levels of close alignment on trade and investment security measures.(c) In order to ensure more competitive, reciprocal, and secure access to our procurement markets, both countries reaffirm their procurement commitments under the Agreement on Government Procurement (GPA) and their respective free trade agreements, and intend to discuss the implementation of our respective procurement commitments, including through the United Kingdom’s new National Security Unit for Procurement and the United Kingdom’s new powers under the Procurement Act 2023, which provides that non-“treaty states” are not guaranteed non-discriminatory treatment in procurement.(d) Both countries confirm that they will negotiate as part of the EPD provisions on duty evasion customs cooperation to combat evasion schemes and the illegal transshipment of goods from countries subject to antidumping, countervailing duties, safeguards, etc., which undermine economic security.
    Commercial Considerations and OpportunitiesBoth countries commit to continuing to identify mutually beneficial goods, services, investment opportunities and commercial transactions that serve to increase economic integration in critical industries and defense preparedness, leveraging government policies, licenses, and programs and private-sector participation to facilitate such transactions.
    Other Matters(a) Both countries confirm that they intend to discuss high-standard commitments related to intellectual property rights protection and enforcement, labor practices (including addressing forced labor in supply chains), and environmental policies and practices.(b) The United Kingdom will consider the interests of those UK territories for whose international relations it is responsible.(c) The United Kingdom and the United States recognize that the purpose of this arrangement is to deepen our trade relationship based on mutual trust and a shared commitment to fair and reciprocal trade. On request of either country, the United Kingdom and the United States will consult with a view to considering any changes that may need to be made to this arrangement to ensure that it remains mutually beneficial.(d) The United States or the United Kingdom may terminate this arrangement by giving written notice to the other. The United Kingdom and the United States further plan to discuss procedures for review and termination as part of the negotiations of the EPD.
    This document becomes operative on May 8, 2025.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police Minister welcomes swim training review

    Source: NZ Music Month takes to the streets

     Today’s announcement by the Commissioner of Police that Police will review the 2017 swimming training policy change in light of some recruits not receiving training while at the Police College is welcome and overdue, says Police Minister Mark Mitchell.
    “When this policy was changed under the previous Government in 2017, I questioned this decision at select committee as I felt it was wrong for a coastal nation like ours, where Police Officers are often the first to provide assistance to people in the water, to relax the swimming requirements.
    “The Labour Government at the time was adamant there would be no problem lowering the standard and that water competence would still be met.  
    “Recent reporting has highlighted and unearthed the fact that the previous government’s approach has taken the focus off a swim standard.  It has become clear that the relaxation of the policy has had the effect of Police graduating the College in some cases having not been tested,” says Mr Mitchell.
    “Since the Coalition Government was formed, Police have been working extremely hard to recruit against our target of 500 new officers by 27 November 2025. 
    “Myself and Minister Costello have been clear that that was not to come at the expense of standards.  What has become obvious is that decisions made under the previous government around standards need to be revisited, and I welcome this decision by the Commissioner.  
    “As a government we feel strongly that a swimming standard is important for both Police and public safety, and in coming into Government we supported a return to a 20-week recruit training course, rather than the 16-week in place when we came into government.  
    “I am extremely proud of our police officers who do outstanding work and deserve to be supported through a comprehensive training programme that includes water safety.”
     
     
     

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Development and Welfare Board for De-notified, Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic Communities (DWBDNC)

    Source: Government of India

    Development and Welfare Board for De-notified, Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic Communities (DWBDNC)

    Hon’ble Minister Reviews DNT Welfare Initiatives During Visit to Tisgaon Tanda, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar

    Posted On: 08 MAY 2025 5:56PM by PIB Mumbai

    Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar/Mumbai, 8 May 2025

     

    The Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment, Dr. Virendra Kumar, visited Tisgaon Tanda village in Taluka Khultabad, District Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar, Maharashtra, today (May 8, 2025) to review ongoing development and welfare activities targeted at De-notified, Nomadic, and Semi-Nomadic Communities (DNTs). The visit focused on assessing the implementation of the SEED (Scheme for Economic Empowerment of DNTs) programme, alongside various State Government-led initiatives.

    Addressing the gathering, Union Minister Dr. Virendra Kumar emphasized the Government of India’s commitment to the upliftment of DNT communities—among the most marginalized and socio-economically disadvantaged groups in the country. The Union Minister highlighted that the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJE) has established the Development and Welfare Board for De-notified, Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic Communities (DWBDNC) to ensure the focused implementation of welfare and development schemes for these communities.

    During the visit, Dr. Virendra Kumar interacted directly with a wide range of stakeholders, including State Government officials, NGO partners involved in SEED implementation, DNT beneficiaries and students, Self Help Group (SHG) members, and local community leaders. These interactions provided important ground-level feedback and insights into the effectiveness and impact of the programmes.

    During the visit, a range of entitlements and benefits were distributed to eligible members of the DNT communities, including:

    • Ayushman Bharat Health Insurance Cards, ensuring access to quality healthcare services,
    • Kamgar Kalyan Smart Cards, facilitating access to welfare benefits for unorganized workers,
    • Caste Certificates, essential for availing reservations and affirmative action schemes,
    • Revolving Funds to Self-Help Groups, supporting income-generating activities,
    • Entry Point Activities aimed at confidence building and group cohesion among newly formed SHGs.

    The SEED scheme targets families with an annual income of ₹2.50 lakh or less, who are not availing benefits from similar schemes of the central or state governments. The scheme includes four key components for the welfare of the DNT communities:

    • Providing quality coaching to DNT candidates for competitive examinations,
    • Providing health insurance to DNT communities,
    • Promoting livelihood initiatives at the community level for small groups within DNT/NT/SNT communities,
    • Providing financial assistance to DNT individuals for constructing houses.

    This visit reaffirmed the Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment’s dedication to ensuring inclusive development and effective delivery of welfare measures for DNT communities at the grassroots level.

     

    * * *

    PIB Mumbai | SC/ DR

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Text of the Vice-President’s interaction with Kautilya Fellows from Indian Foundation, New Delhi (Excerpts)

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 08 MAY 2025 6:27PM by PIB Delhi

    Good afternoon,  
     
    Shri Ram Madhav,  Director, India Foundation. His public life has been dotted with contributions all throughout for larger public welfare but he can legitimately be counted as authentic part of Indian intelligentsia.
     
    Distinguished guests from abroad, and Distinguished members of this group.
     
    Greetings to our foreign guests to Bharat, home to one-sixth of humanity, Global epicenter of culture. We legitimately take pride in being a civilization of thousands of years old and we are unique in several ways, you would have already got some inkling of it. My very distinguished predecessor Venkaiah Naidu ji, a tall figure in Indian politics set very high benchmark as Chairman, Rajya Sabha. He started a bond as he has the good fortune to host two cohorts. Anything done by him carries sublimity and  worth. I am delighted to continue this bond which will be enduring, and it is the fifth one. I am particularly fascinated by the name Kautilya fellowship program and more fascinated by the demographic upper sealing it has for 35 years. 35 years would mean all of you can qualify in the right age to be member of Lok Sabha, 25 years is the age. 

    At 30 you can be a member of the upper house. Unfortunately, you can’t contest the election to be the President. There you have to be more than 35 years of age. You are in a land which basically believes in universal brotherhood–Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam. When India hosted and set very high benchmark for G20, the G20 motto was One Earth, One family, One future. This has been exemplified by us over thousands of years, and also in contemporaneous times. At the moment we have global turbulence, Global disturbance.  There are global conflagrations, nations are getting ambitious, they are getting in expansion mode and therefore Kautilya’s words of wisdom have great relevance.

     
    Wisdom of Kautilya stands out not as ancient relic but as living guidance. I am sure you must have all studied on Kautilya and his thought process. His philosophy, his Arthashastra remains unmatched in its precision on governance, revealing a mind that understood powers essential in nature and while never forgetting its purpose.  Power is defined by limitations. Democracy is nurtured ever mindful of the limitations of power.  If you will go deep into Kautilya’s philosophy you will find all this converges only to one essence- nectar of governance, welfare of the people.  Kautilya declared, “The happiness of the King lies in the happiness of his people”
     
    If you look at Constitutions of any country that are democratic, you will find this philosophy is the underlying spirit and essence of Democratic governance and democratic values. This people centric foundation reminds us that legitimacy flows not on account of being elected to governance, not on account of being in seat of power but it flows when you get involved passionately in mission mode with deep commitment to execution and public welfare activities.
     
    Democracy is nurtured best when expression and dialogue complement each other, this distinguishes democracy from any other form of governance and in India democracy did not start with our constitution coming into force or we getting Independence from foreign rule. We have been a democratic nation in spirit for thousands of years and this expression and dialogue, complementary mechanism, अभिव्यक्ति, वाद-विवाद has been known in Vedic culture as Anantvad. I am therefore extremely optimistic, brimming with confidence that a world that I described is so torn. If young minds can get together from several countries,  get to know each other and that too in Land of Civilization, cradle of Civilization, crucible of innovation  where the only thought process resonating over the years is welfare of all.
     
    You would have felt by now, Atithi Devo Bhava. Guest for us is God. You would have felt it on any part of the country.  The format will be different, mechanism will be different but the spirit will be the same.  I therefore beseech you to look at Bharat, what it was, lost way somewhere in between.  There was a time when India contributed to the extent of one third of the global economy,  there was a time when India was global destination for knowledge & wisdom. Our educational institutions – Nalanda, Takshashila to name only two, were glorified but about 1300 years ago Nalanda was put in flames. Precious library was lost, Marauders came, they made an effort to revenge our culture, tyrannical, barbaric in their approach but the land survived.

    You see recent decades, we were a fragile economy counted or stigmatized as being part of fragile five. Now we are the fourth largest global economy on way to becoming the third.  You have to understand Bharat at the moment. No nation in the world has grown so exponentially in last decade as Bharat. Among the larger economies, our pace of growth, our economic upsurge has been at the front. This has converted Bharat into the most aspirational nation in the world at the moment. And primarily because of the segment you represent. Bharat’s demographic dividend is envy of the world. You all are stakeholders in governance in future of the world more than us. You have to drive the growth engine for larger prosperity of the world. Today you see a Bharat at the moment where developmental impact is being felt in the villages.

    Imagine all village households having access to minimum 4G internet technology. Imagine a nation which contributes more than 50% of global technological transactions. Imagine a country of 1.4 billion which just a decade ago did not have all households connected to electricity, to pipe water, had no toilet facility, no gas connection. Now they have. 

    This transformation has brought about equality. This transformation has cut into inequities. Bharat is a growth story accoladed by the world. To be emulated by many nations and they have expressed desire. Global institutions, the World Bank, the IMF, they have recognised this spinal strength of human genius of Bharat. Strength and resilience of its economy. And that is why IMF declared India that is the Bharat as a global shining centre of investment and opportunity.

    Boys and girls you are in this land. Our Prime Minister, a great visionary believes in big scale. He believes in massive transformation. He believes in the transformation of the world and after a decade of governance the results are writing on the wall. It is after a long gap of several decades, that we have a Prime Minister continually in the third term and that is making all the difference. And this is what Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, “Democracy is in our DNA”

    Why in our DNA? Because from ancient Vedic Sabhas and Samitis to our contemporary electoral system. Boys and girls examine. This is the only country in the world that has constitutionally prescribed democratic system at the village level, at the district level, at the state level, at the national level.

    This was brought in effect in our country about three and a half decades ago. We started initially with electoral system, democratic process for Parliament and state legislatures but now it has permeated and all this is Constitutionally prescribed. A stable, robust constitutional mechanism has to ensure governance at the village level, at taluk level, at district level. Let me indicate some statistics that will buttress my point. Our electoral process stands as a marvel of scale and inclusion.

    The number of registered voters is 990 million. We will be touching a billion. And in the last election in 2024, 642 million people cast votes. This is twice the size of the population of United States. Globally in democratic process there is a declining trend of participation but Bharat defeats this trend. Participatory democracy is blossoming in Bharat and the turnout is rising. It is currently close to 65 percent. Our commitment to gender equity is now constitutionally codified. Women reservation in legislature and Parliament is to the extent of one third now. This is a facet of empowerment of women.

    Humanity cannot grow equitably without a fair share of participation by women. But what you need to learn more particularly is reservation to the extent of one third in Lok Sabha and State legislatures is not the upper limit. In the other two third category women can participate. So their number will be more than two third, more than one third, but a striking feature of this reservation is it is horizontal and vertical. Marginalised sections, scheduled castes, scheduled tribes, they will have reservation in themselves but there will be reservation for women in that category also.

     So boys and girls, this is epochal development. This will be game changing and this will impact this country in a manner that we will regain our past glory as Vishwaguru. Bharat is not a nation with potential. It is a nation on the rise. The rise is unstoppable. The rise is incremental. Making India a developed nation at 2047 when we complete centenary of our independence is not a dream.
     
    It is our destination. Everyone in the country is confident we will achieve it in 2047 if not earlier. In doing all this, our Prime Minister has exemplified in action Kautilyan philosophy. Kautilya’s thought process is a treatise in governance virtually encyclopedic for every facet of governance, state craft, security, role of the king, now those elected. In our multipolar world, we are shifting alliances; you know more than I do. We had a concept, fly by night concept. Same can be seen with alliances. But Kautilya imagined then that this will be our shifting.

     

    Let me quote Kautilya, “Neighbouring state is an enemy and the enemy’s enemy is a friend”, which country knows better than Bharat. We always believe in global peace, global fraternity, global welfare and that is why I said our motto for G20 reflected that 100%. We must go by results. How many people have been hand held to lead a life of dignity, to come out of poverty and that is decided by certain indicators. The number is 248 million. This has been done by a multi pronged strategy. They have been hand held and they have come out. The number will keep on growing. I do not wish to take more time but indicate to you that perhaps what is your median age? 28, around. I say so because this is median age of our demographic dividend. This will take us to our destination.

    I will conclude by giving you one illustration, How Prime Minister Modi followed Chanakya Kautilya. When the world faced a non-discriminatory challenge in the shape of COVID, the challenge was much bigger for a nation of 1.4 billion people, and this is what Narendra Modi did. His first step was people’s curfew. People were amazed. Why India’s Prime Minister is thinking of people’s curfew? It was not state sponsored, not administration enforced. He appealed to the people.
    Not a soul was on the street. There was near 100% compliance. This motivated the people. This gave strength to a leadership that had vision. Determined to fight COVID at a time when there was no vaccine. No immediate solution in sight.

    I know it because then I was boys and girls, Governor of the State of West Bengal. I was looking at the problem that was staring us. I had the good fortune to see in city of joy, Kolkata, curfew being 100% by the people but the underlying spirit of the Prime Minister was it is for the people. It is for the benefit of the people. Can there be greater awareness of the problem than this? This one step by visionary Prime Minister enlightened everyone about the gigantic scale of the problem. Secondly, lighting of candles. I as governor did it. And that was symbolising hope that there may be darkness of COVID, but there will be light. We have Indian tradition when there is some happiness lie when a child is born, how do you light a candle? How would the villagers know? So the house that is honoured by arrival of a newborn, they will take a thali, a metal plate and do it, we did that. At that time, some people did not see the underlying rationale of the Prime Minister. In retrospect they know the man was present Kautilya. He was present, Chanakya. Same about economy. Economy of this country has risen like a plateau. He realised, as Kautilya instructed in Arthashastra, if the last mile people do not rise, economy cannot get quantum jump. 

    Just imagine, and I will urge all of you to study, the impact of Mudra Loan. How it has converted 50% beneficiaries who are women into entrepreneurs. How it has led women and others to self-economic independence. I am extremely delighted to be amongst you because you constitute the intellectual capital of the world. This convergence is motivated by not welfare of one nation, one race, one caste, one creed, one religion. It is meant in the true spirit of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’, the world is one family. We aspire for welfare of the entire world.

     
    Kautilya had one great emphasis. Democracy has to be participatory. Development equally has to be participatory. He laid great emphasis on individuals contributing for national welfare. A nation is defined by decorum, discipline that is individualistic in nature. Similarly, I quote Kautilya, “Just as one wheel alone does not move a cart,” those were the days only of cart, not of automobiles.

    Administration cannot be accomplished single-handedly. This nation has an administration which is innovative. In the country we had some districts that were lagging behind. Bureaucrats did not venture into those areas. Prime Minister Modi created a nomenclature for those districts. ‘Aspirational Districts’ and now those ‘Aspirational Districts’ have turned out to be leader districts in development.

    Prime Minister Modi certainly thought that people are going to metros. Tier 2, Tier 3 cities must also be hub of economic activity. He devised a mechanism of smart cities. Smart cities were not in the context of infrastructure or beauty. It was in the context of facilities being available for entrepreneurs, for students, so that they do not have to go to metros.

    There was a time when in this country for security purposes we used to call our villages on the border as the last village. He changed it. He changed it into first village, a vibrant village. So boys and girls, make most of your time while you are here and I am sure you will carry fond memories. Nurture the bonds you create here. These bonds will help you all your lives, trust me. Do you have an alumni culture of your cohorts? Develop that. I am extremely privileged to be part of this discourse. I will say three things and conclude. One — it is for the first time in G20, India took the initiative to make African Union a member of G20. It is for the first time that Prime Minister Modi took the initiative to put the consensus of the Global South on international radar. And last, while you were battling COVID, this country helped 100 other countries with COVID vaccine.
     
    Thank you so much

    ****

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Operation Sindoor was successfully executed because our formidable & professionally-trained Armed Forces were equipped with high-quality equipment, says Raksha Mantri at National Quality Conclave 2025

    Source: Government of India

    Operation Sindoor was successfully executed because our formidable & professionally-trained Armed Forces were equipped with high-quality equipment, says Raksha Mantri at National Quality Conclave 2025

    “India has always played the role of a responsible nation, but if anyone tries to take advantage of its restraint, they will face ‘quality action’”

    No limit will become an obstacle in protecting India’s sovereignty, fully prepared for responsible responses in the future: Shri Rajnath Singh

    “Expanding defence industrial ecosystem is providing an unprecedented strength to India”

    “Need to develop global trust in our equipment to make India a developed nation & largest defence exporter by 2047”

    Posted On: 08 MAY 2025 5:53PM by PIB Delhi

    “Operation Sindoor was successfully executed because our formidable & professionally-trained Armed Forces were equipped with high-quality equipment,” said Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh while addressing the National Quality Conclave in New Delhi on May 08, 2025. Raksha Mantri commended the precision with which the Armed Forces executed the operation without harming any innocent person and with minimum collateral damage, terming it as unimaginable and a matter of great pride for the nation.

    “In Operation Sindoor, nine terror camps were destroyed in Pakistan & PoK, and a good number of terrorists were killed. It shows the crucial role ‘quality’ plays in securing national interests,” said Shri Rajnath Singh.

    Raksha Mantri asserted that India has always played the role of a responsible nation exercising great restraint and it believes in resolving issues through dialogue, however, if anyone tries to take advantage of this restraint, they will face ‘quality action’. He assured the nation that no limit will become an obstacle for the Government in protecting India’s sovereignty. “We are fully prepared for such responsible responses in the future as well,” he said.

    Sharing his views on the theme of the conclave ‘Fast-tracking of Quality Assurance through Integrated Approach and Technology Enabled Processes’, Shri Rajnath Singh stated that fast-tracking quality assessment is the need of the hour in view of the disruptive changes and new transformations being witnessed in the defence sector across the globe.

    Raksha Mantri voiced the Government’s emphasis on the empowerment of the defence production sector since 2014, based on Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s philosophy of Defence Sovereignty. He said: “Defence Sovereignty means that until a country is capable and self-reliant in its defence needs, its independence cannot be considered complete. If we buy weapons and other defence equipment from abroad, we are outsourcing our security and leaving it at the mercy of someone else. Our government thought over it seriously and took a decisive step to achieve self-reliance. The expanding defence industrial ecosystem is providing an unprecedented strength to India”.

    Shri Rajnath Singh added that equal emphasis is being laid on quality and quantity in defence production with many revolutionary steps being taken in that direction, including corporatisation of Ordnance Factory Board (OFB). He termed Quality as the Government’s priority Reform Agenda, highlighting that since the corporatisation of OFB, DPSUs have become internationally competitive and export-oriented, with efforts being made to advance quality production.

    Raksha Mantri pointed out that one of the objectives behind the progress of the public sector has been to develop a Healthy Competitive Private Defence Ecosystem, which will strengthen India’s security through quality. “In today’s world, a strong brand value is important than just a product. The brand, which assures consistent quality and reliability, succeeds,” he said.

    Shri Rajnath Singh appealed to the Armed Forces, Government QA agencies, DPSUs, private industry, research institutions, academia, and MSME representatives present on the occasion to build a world-leading state-of-the-art Brand India.  “Brand India means if an Indian company has promised something, it will definitely happen. ‘Whenever in doubt, go for India’ should be our USP,” he said.

    On the major changes being witnessed in the global order, Raksha Mantri stated that when developed countries move towards re-armament, the demand for arms & equipment will increase. He cited the report of Stockholm International Peace Research Institute which said that the world military expenditure has reached $ 2,718 billion in 2024. He expressed hope that with coordinated efforts, the Indian defence manufacturing sector can make its mark globally with the Brand India philosophy. “Defence exports crossed the record figure of about Rs 24,000 crore in Financial Year 2024-25. Our aim is to increase the figure to Rs 50,000 crore by 2029. The target is to make India a developed nation and the world’s largest defence exporter by 2047. To achieve the goal, we must develop global trust regarding the quality of our defence equipment,” he said.

    While Shri Rajnath Singh acknowledged the efforts being made towards quality improvement, he stressed on the need to focus on using tools such as artificial intelligence, internet of things, and machine learning for real-time quality monitoring in today’s technology-driven era. He also called for updating standards and testing protocols to align with evolving global technologies. We need to focus on time-bound quality assurance clearances so that unwanted delays do not take place, he said.

    Raksha Mantri added that quality assessment agencies should always keep an eye on their deficiencies and work on overcoming them through modernisation and development of testing infrastructure. Continuous gap analysis in the field of niche technology will be an essential step, he said.

    Organised by the Directorate General of Quality Assurance (DGQA) under the aegis of Department of Defence Production, the conclave underscored the need to transition from legacy QA models to predictive, data-driven, and automated systems. Experts called for seamless collaboration across stakeholders to accelerate certification timelines, streamline inspections, and embed real-time quality oversight into defence production.

    Secretary (Defence Production) Shri Sanjeev Kumar spotlighted the role of innovation and industry collaboration in making India a leading defence exporter. In a transparent and interactive Open House session, he addressed queries from defence industry representatives and user agencies, reinforcing the Ministry’s resolve to simplify, digitalise, and modernise QA systems.

    Key Highlights & Announcements

    • A landmark session introduced the Industry 4.0/QA 4.0 Roadmap, developed jointly by DGQA and industry partners. It includes deployment of smart technologies like Internet of Things-enabled test benches, automated data capture, digital dashboards, and AI-powered analytics—aimed at reducing human error, enhancing efficiency, and enabling continuous quality monitoring across defence product life-cycles.
    • The Draft Indian Military Airworthiness Bill was formally presented for final inputs. The Bill, crafted through an inclusive process involving multiple stakeholders, including MoD, DRDO, Services, DPSUs, and industry, proposes a statutory framework for the certification of military aircraft and airborne systems. A dedicated interactive session captured final feedback from user representatives and industry forums.
    • A dedicated session explored strategies to boost the indigenous development of Explosives and Ordnance (E&O) stores. Experts examined the role of emerging technologies – AI/ML, Big Data, Additive Manufacturing, Silicon Photonics, Semiconductors, and Advanced Materials—in modernising E&O production, safety validation, and certification. The session reinforced the need for technological self-reliance in critical munitions and precision systems.

     

    The National Quality Conclave 2025 concluded with a united commitment from all stakeholders to redefine defence QA as a strategic enabler, not just of compliance, but of national security, export capability, and indigenous innovation. The outcomes of the conclave are expected to catalyse India’s transformation into a global benchmark for defence quality assurance.

    DG, DGQA Shri N Manoharan emphasised that the conclave had significantly strengthened the partnership between industry and defence stakeholders, while also advancing efforts toward standardisation and innovation in quality assurance.

    Director General of Naval Armament Inspection Rear Admiral Rupak Barua, Director General of Aeronautical Quality Assurance Shri Sanjay Chawla, CMDs of DPSUs, senior MoD officers were also present on the occasion.

    *****

    VK/Savvy

    (Release ID: 2127735) Visitor Counter : 2

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Oregon SAR Coordinator Highlights Partnership at Spring Conference

    Source: US State of Oregon

    strong>North Bend, OR – As part of the League of Oregon Cities (LOC) 2025 Spring Conference, Oregon’s State Search and Rescue (SAR) Coordinator, Scott Lucas, was invited to speak at a special tour hosted by the U.S. Coast Guard Air Station North Bend. The Spring Conference drew more than 300 city officials, sponsors, and speakers to North Bend on May 1–2 to celebrate LOC’s 100th anniversary.

    Lucas joined approximately 45 city councilors and mayors from across Oregon at the Air Station, where he provided an overview of the State SAR Program and its close collaboration with the U.S. Coast Guard in search and rescue operations. His remarks emphasized the critical nature of interagency coordination in responding to emergencies and reaching people in need across Oregon’s diverse and often remote landscapes.

    “It was a privilege to speak about how our state and federal teams work hand-in-hand to save lives,” said Lucas. “The Coast Guard is a vital partner in Oregon’s search and rescue system, and it was a pleasure to share that story with so many engaged local leaders.”

    During the visit, Lucas had the opportunity to connect individually with local officials from Detroit, Hermiston, Fossil, Molalla, Rogue River, and Paisley. Discussions centered around strengthening local SAR capacity, improving coordination, and fostering relationships that support emergency preparedness across jurisdictions.

    The tour offered attendees a behind-the-scenes look at Coast Guard operations and served as a meaningful reminder of the partnerships that underpin effective emergency response in Oregon.

    For more information about Oregon’s Search and Rescue Program, visit: https://www.oregon.gov/oem/hazardsprep/Pages/Search-and-Rescue.aspx

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi calls on China, Russia to maintain strategic resolve, coordination

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

    Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin have a chat over tea at the president’s office of the Kremlin in Moscow, Russia, May 8, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MOSCOW, May 8 — Chinese President Xi Jinping said Thursday that China and Russia should maintain strategic resolve and coordination as the world is entering a new period of turbulence and transformation.

    Xi made the remarks during a chat over tea with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the president’s office of the Kremlin in Moscow.

    As long as China and Russia maintain strategic resolve and coordination, no force can stop the two countries from achieving their respective development and revitalization, no force can shake the strong foundation of long-standing friendship between the two peoples, and no force can hold back the prevailing trend toward a multipolar world and economic globalization, said Xi.

    Xi also voiced readiness to stay in close communication with Putin to chart the course for China-Russia relations and make contributions to advancing global governance.

    For his part, Putin said that Russia and China have always stood together in solidarity and supported each other, forging an unbreakable friendship.

    The Russian president said he is willing to maintain close strategic communication with Xi, provide strategic guidance for the development of bilateral relations, jointly respond to the challenges of a complex international landscape, deepen comprehensive strategic coordination, safeguard common interests of the two countries and promote the development of a more equitable, democratic and multipolar world.

    The two heads of state exchanged views on the Ukraine crisis and other issues. Xi said that China advocates for and remains committed to the vision of common, comprehensive, cooperative and sustainable security at the global level, and believes it is important to take seriously the legitimate security concerns of all countries and eliminate the root causes of the Ukraine crisis.

    China welcomes all efforts conducive to peace and looks forward to reaching a fair, lasting and binding peace agreement on the Ukraine crisis that is accepted by all relevant parties through dialogue, Xi noted.

    Putin highly commended China’s objective and impartial position on the political settlement of the Ukraine crisis, saying that Russia is ready to engage in peace talks without preconditions and hopes to reach a fair and lasting peace agreement.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI: Pieridae Announces Voting Results From Annual and Special Meeting of Shareholders and Approval of Name Change to Cavvy Energy Ltd.

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWS WIRE SERVICES OR
    DISSEMINATION IN UNITED STATES

    CALGARY, Alberta, May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Pieridae Energy Limited (“Pieridae” or the “Company”) (TSX: PEA) today announced the voting results from its Annual and Special Meeting of Shareholders (the “Meeting”) held on May 8, 2025. Each of the matters voted upon at the Meeting is described below and additional information on such matters is set out in the 2025 Notice of Annual and Special Meeting of Shareholders and Management Information Circular dated March 27, 2025 (the “Circular”), a copy of which is available on the Company’s SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca. All resolutions brought forward at the Meeting were approved by shareholders, including to change the Company’s name to Cavvy Energy Ltd.

    The Company expects to effect the name change on May 9, 2025 and to begin trading its common shares under the stock symbol “CVVY” on the Toronto Stock Exchange (the “TSX”) within three business days of the completion of the name change, subject to receipt of final regulatory approvals. The Company also intends to launch its new website at www.cavvyenergy.com following completion of the name change.

    At the Meeting, shareholders also approved the continuance of the Company out of the federal jurisdiction of Canada under the Canada Business Corporations Act (the “CBCA”) and into the provincial jurisdiction of Alberta under the Business Corporations Act (Alberta) (the “ABCA”). The Company expects to effect the continuance immediately following the name change on May 9, 2025.

    Charles Boulanger, Gail Harding, and Richard Couillard did not seek re-election to the Company’s board of directors (the “Board”) at the Meeting. The Board and management team would like to thank them for their valued contributions and guidance to the Company over the years and wish them well in their future endeavours. The Board and management team would also like to welcome the Company’s two new directors, Michael Backus and Harvey Doerr, to the Board.

    The Company had 290,483,281 common shares outstanding and eligible to vote at the Meeting, of which 205,689,497 (70.81%) were voted.

    VOTING RESULTS

    1. Number of Directors: By ordinary resolution, the number of directors of the Company to be elected at the Meeting was fixed at seven. The results of the vote were as follows:

    Votes For Votes Against
    Number Percent Number Percent
    202,833,661 98.612% 2,855,836 1.388%

    2. Election of Directors: Each of the following seven nominees were elected as a director of the Company to serve until the next annual meeting of shareholders of the Company, or until their successors are elected or appointed. The results of the vote were as follows:

    Nominee Votes For Votes Against
      Number Percent Number Percent
    Michael Backus 188,069,901 92.418% 15,429,072 7.582%
    Harvey Doerr 200,365,870 98.460% 3,133,103 1.540%
    Doug Dreisinger 180,729,122 88.811% 22,769,851 11.189%
    Andrew Judson 187,854,912 92.312% 15,644,061 7.688%
    Patricia McLeod 188,384,113 92.573% 15,114,860 7.427%
    Darcy Reding 200,753,750 98.651% 2,745,223 1.349%
    Kiren Singh 168,669,540 82.885% 34,829,433 17.115%

    A biography of each director is available in the Circular.

    3. Appointment of Auditor: By ordinary resolution, Ernst & Young LLP was appointed as the auditor of the Company to hold office until close of the next annual meeting of shareholders of the Company. The results of the vote were as follows:

    Votes For Votes Withheld
    Number Percent Number Percent
    205,559,438 99.938% 127,891 0.062%

    4. Executive Compensation:   By non-binding ordinary resolution, the advisory vote on executive compensation, also known as “say on pay”, as described in the Circular, was approved. The results of the vote were as follows:

    Votes For Votes Against
    Number Percent Number Percent
    177,804,106 87.373% 25,694,867 12.627%

    5. Ratification of Options: By ordinary resolution, the ratification and approval of all stock options granted after May 27, 2024 and approval of all unallocated options under the stock option plan, as described Circular, was approved. The results of the vote were as follows:

    Votes For Votes Against
    Number Percent Number Percent
    165,379,341 81.268% 38,119,632 18.732%

    6. Name Change: By special resolution, the amendment to the Company’s articles to change its name to “Cavvy Energy Ltd.” was approved. The results of the vote were as follows:

    Votes For Votes Against
    Number Percent Number Percent
    192,942,421 93.803% 12,747,076 6.197%

    7. Continuance: By special resolution, the continuance of the Company out of the federal jurisdiction of Canada under the CBCA and into the provincial jurisdiction of Alberta under the ABCA, as described in the Circular, was approved. The results of the vote were as follows:

    Votes For Votes Against
    Number Percent Number Percent
    183,699,320 90.270% 19,799,653 9.730%

    ABOUT PIERIDAE

    Pieridae is a Canadian energy company headquartered in Calgary, Alberta. The Company is a significant upstream producer and midstream custom processor of natural gas, NGLs, condensate, and sulphur from western Canada. Pieridae’s vision is to provide responsible, affordable natural gas and derived products to meet society’s energy security needs.

    For further information, visit www.pieridaeenergy.com or please contact:

    Darcy Reding, President & Chief Executive Officer Adam Gray, Chief Financial Officer
    Telephone: (403) 261-5900 Telephone: (403) 261-5900
       
    Investor Relations  
    investors@pieridaeenergy.com  
       

    Forward-Looking Statements 
    Certain of the statements contained herein may constitute “forward-looking statements” or “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws (collectively “forward-looking statements”), including, without limitation: the Company’s intention to change its name from “Pieridae Energy Limited” to “Cavvy Energy Ltd.”, including the anticipated timing thereof; the Company’s intention to begin trading its common shares under the stock symbol “CVVY” on the TSX and the anticipated timing thereof; the receipt of the required regulatory approval in respect of the name change and the new stock symbol; [the Company’s intention to continue under the ABCA;] and the Company’s strategy and vision. Words such as “will”, “intend”, “expect”, “vision”, “strategy” and similar expressions may be used to identify these forward-looking statements. These statements reflect management’s current beliefs and are based on information currently available to management.

    Forward-looking statements are based on a number of factors and assumptions which have been used to develop such forward-looking statements, but which may prove to be incorrect. Although Pieridae believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements because Pieridae can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. A number of risk factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated, expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements contained herein. For more information about the assumptions and risks associated with the forward-looking statements contained herein, see “Forward Looking Information” and “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2024 and “Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information” in the Company’s Management’s Discussion and Analysis for the year ended December 31, 2024, each of which can be accessed through the Company’s SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca.

    Although the forward-looking statements contained herein are based upon what management believes to be reasonable assumptions, management cannot assure that actual results will be consistent with these forward-looking statements. Investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and Pieridae assumes no obligation to update or review them to reflect new events or circumstances except as required by applicable securities laws.

    Neither the TSX nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Webinar programme for Privacy Week 2025 announced

    Source:

    Privacy Week 2025 lands on the second week of May (12-16 May), with a full week of free webinars to promote privacy education. 

    Privacy Commissioner Michael Webster says, “New Zealanders’ concerns over the collection and use of their personal information remains high, and they want to see organisations and businesses responding positively to this challenge.”  

    “Now’s the time to brush up on your privacy skills, and take up the opportunity to learn more about subjects like AI and privacy, Māori data privacy, privacy and business, or media rules around privacy.

    “We’re lucky to have attracted some of Aotearoa’s top privacy experts to speak on AI governance, biometrics and children’s toys, privacy in property management, and more,” he says.

    OPC staff will share their expertise on the new IPP3a amendment, how to be a good privacy officer, and local government specific privacy issues.

    “The programme is full to bursting with topics that are relevant and interesting,” says Mr Webster.

    You don’t need to be a privacy expert to engage with Privacy Week or to be proactive about your privacy rights.

    Webinars this year have been rated from beginner to advanced, showing which is suitable for your level of knowledge. All webinars are free.

    “I encourage you to have a look at the programme and attend a talk. 

    Privacy is a basic human right, and the more we can educate ourselves and ensure businesses and organisations understand the breadth of their privacy obligations, the better,” the Commissioner says.

    Find more information and register for webinars.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cantwell Statement on Election of Pope Leo XIV

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell
    05.08.25
    Cantwell Statement on Election of Pope Leo XIV
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) released this statement regarding the election of Pope Leo XIV.
    “I join the millions of Americans around the country in celebrating the selection of a new pope. Pope Francis had a message to the world: all of us must help lift the most vulnerable up. Pope Leo XIV — the first American pope — has my prayers for strength as he leads the Catholic Church.”

    MIL OSI USA News –