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Category: Politics

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/PAKISTAN – Violence in Kashmir: Christians launch an appeal for dialogue and peace

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Lahore (Agenzia Fides) – “In Pakistan, people are concerned about the growing tensions with India. The elderly remember the war. There is a certain fear among the population, given the escalation on the border, the firefights, and the victims. We are not far from the Indian border and Kashmir, which increases fears. Public opinion, seeing the constant increase in violence, including verbal violence, sees the risk of a new war growing,” Father Qaisar Feroz (OFM Cap), President of Signis Pakistan and Executive Secretary of the Social Communications Commission of the Episcopal Conference of Pakistan, told Fides.”What is becoming apparent is that leaders on both sides of the border are fueling violence and conflict. That is why today we say emphatically: we need words of peace, we need dialogues based on reason and thinking about the good of the respective peoples,” the Capuchin priest said. “We see that the conflict has also led to a ‘water conflict,’ because the springs are located on Indian territory, and India has closed them to Pakistan. This will have an impact on the poor and civilian population, which is very bitter for us and at the same time underlines the seriousness of the situation,” he notes. To prevent a new war, “interreligious initiatives and meetings have been launched in Pakistan, inviting political leaders and praying for dialogue and peace. Franciscans and Dominicans, among others, are participating in these initiatives, appealing to politicians: please, let us promote dialogue and peace.””The Christians in Pakistan,” he concludes, “support this appeal and pray for de-escalation so that the threads of negotiations can be re-twisted. Violence is a defeat under all circumstances and at all times,” Father Feroz says, expressing the feelings and wishes of the Catholic community.At the ecclesiastical level, the Pakistani region of Kashmir belongs to the Archdiocese of Islamabad-Rawalpindi. A mission of the Oblates of Mary Immaculate operates in this area. (PA) (Agenzia Fides, 5/5/2025)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Stepping up in a changing global environment

    Source: NZ Music Month takes to the streets

    Good evening.

    Thank you to the New Zealand Institute of International Affairs for organising this event, and for your efforts to foster New Zealand’s understanding of international affairs. I am grateful for the opportunity to speak here today. 

    As keen observers and practitioners of international relations, you will all be aware of the degree to which the global environment has changed, even in the past two years.  

    We in New Zealand have enjoyed for a long time the benefits of a strategic environment in which we could focus heavily on growing our economy, seeking trading relationships and pursuing our interests safe in the knowledge that the stable post-war, liberal, international rules-based order provided the guardrails.  

    We believe in that order, and we will act to preserve it. But it is not enough on its own. We rely on our ally, our friends and our partners to help make us more secure, and they rely on us for support. Few countries can go it alone, and we are no exception.  

    We are no longer in a world – and I would argue that maybe we never were – where prosperity and security are mutually exclusive. There is no economic security without national security.  

    As Minister of Defence, I am keenly aware that our Defence Force needs to be acknowledged for its core functions. It plays a vital in contributing to national defence and resilience, and helping deliver whole-of government security objectives.  

    But we have a Defence Force with military capabilities for a reason. We choose to hold at readiness a credible force of highly trained and capable men and women who are prepared and ready to act with force if needed, to defend our country. 

    Unfortunately 35 years of underinvestment has allowed this capability to deteriorate.  

    Defence Capability Plan 

    I was therefore very proud to last month launch with the Prime Minister, the Chief of Defence Force and the Secretary of Defence our new Defence Capability Plan – or, given the military’s fondness for acronyms, the DCP. 

    This plan sets out $12 billion of planned commitments over the next four years, including $9 billion of new spending, with a path to reaching 2 percent of GDP in the next eight years. 

    The release of the DCP represents the culmination of several years of focused work by the Defence agencies to ensure our defence policy settings and our defence capability investments best support New Zealand’s interests in a changed and changing world through to 2040. 

    As you can imagine, the content of the DCP was the subject of some intense discussions with my Cabinet colleagues. We know the critical importance of getting this right, of having a plan that is both appropriately ambitious and achievable, and firmly focused on what is in New Zealand’s best interests. 

    I am proud of the DCP, and I welcome the very positive reactions to it, both domestically and internationally. 

    New Zealanders understand that our world has changed, and the highly skilled and professional personnel of the New Zealand Defence Force need to be ready to do what the New Zealand Government and people ask of it, often at short notice. 

    Defence is not something that can be mothballed until you need it. Because when the chips are down, you need a force that is ready and equipped to do whatever is asked of it – and it needs to be able about to do it immediately.  

    That means it must be empowered and equipped appropriately. 

    I have been particularly pleased with the broad support the DCP has received from across Parliament. National security is one area of public policy that benefits strongly from a bipartisan approach, and I welcome the support for a more capable Defence Force. 

    I have been able to discuss the DCP with a number of my international counterparts, and I can tell you it has been received very positively by New Zealand’s security partners. Our partners have welcomed our updated approach and our intention to invest more in New Zealand’s defence capabilities. 

    The first step to turning the DCP into action was taken on Sunday, when I announced the Government is putting aside $2 billion plus to replace the Defence Force’s ageing maritime helicopters. Alongside that, we are investing $957 million over four years in Defence Force activities, personnel and estate in Budget 25. I will have more to say on Budget Day on additional defence investment. 

    The increase in defence investment has generated quite a range of questions about elements of New Zealand’s defence policy, both long-standing and newly introduced, that could usefully be explained in greater detail. And that is what I would like to do this evening. 

    I will talk in particular to our assessment of New Zealand’s strategic environment, our alliance with Australia, our approach to deterrence, the importance of combat capability, and opportunities for innovation. 

    New Zealand’s strategic environment 

    The first line in the first chapter of the DCP sets the scene well for the policy settings that follow: “New Zealand is facing its most challenging and dangerous strategic environment for decades.” 

    Security challenges that we are familiar with remain with us. At home and in our immediate region these include ongoing risks of natural disasters and maritime security challenges of all kinds. And some of these are becoming worse – for example, we are seeing increasing use of the Pacific as a transhipment route for illegal drugs. 

    And for our Pacific partners in particular, climate change and its wide-ranging security impacts continue to represent the primary security concern.  

    Increasingly, however, the defining character of our strategic environment is strategic competition. 

    Globally, in the wider Indo-Pacific and in our immediate region, we are seeing some states increasingly acting in ways that undermine existing international rules and norms, and seeking to reshape both regional orders and the global order as a whole.  

    Recent events in our immediate region – including the PRC Task Group operating in the Tasman Sea and last year’s Intercontinental Ballistic Missile test – have demonstrated that New Zealand’s geographic location no longer shelters us from threats to the extent that it once did. Our region is of increasing strategic significance, and global challenges and tensions are having direct impacts on our security. 

    And the wider Indo Pacific contains a number of potential security flashpoints – be that cross-Strait tensions, the Korean Peninsula or competing claims in the South China Sea. 

    Perhaps the most acute – and still shocking – example of the deteriorating strategic environment is Russia’s ongoing illegal war against Ukraine. 

    New Zealand remains fully committed to supporting Ukraine’s self-defence and national resilience. The Prime Minister announced last month during his trip to the United Kingdom and Türkiye that New Zealand is extending its military assistance in support of Ukraine’s self-defence through to December 2026. 

    New Zealand welcomes efforts to achieve a just and lasting peace, and is following the negotiations on a potential ceasefire very closely. 

    Overview of DCP policy settings 

    As a government, we need to ensure we are employing our full range of tools of statecraft to best effect in service of New Zealand’s national interests.  

    We are a small island nation that relies on trade for its economic growth and – as I have previously said, we cannot have economic security without national security. 

    A compromised supply chain can lead to disruptions, financial losses, reputational damage and compromised products or services. And our supply chains rely on the security of maritime, air, land, space and cyber domains.  

    As Defence Minister, I need to ensure the Defence Force has the right capabilities, is using those capabilities to support peace and security, and is prepared for scenarios in which competition tips into confrontation and conflict. 

    That is why the DCP has three new defence policy objectives. These aren’t a radical shift in our policy, but they provide a sharper focus.  

    The first is to protect and promote New Zealand’s security, and that of our immediate region. New Zealand’s security is indivisible from the strategic situation our region is facing. 

    Defence plays a key part in ensuring the security, stability, and resilience of our immediate region by deterring actions contrary to the security of New Zealand and our regional partners and helping sustain wider regional conditions favourable to New Zealand’s security interests. An important part of this is delivering our defence and security constitutional responsibilities to the Realm.  

    Second is enhancing our alliance and other key security partnerships, which I’ll expand on shortly.  

    And third is to contribute to achieving our global interests, particularly in the Indo-Pacific. Defence will continue its pattern of operations in support of maritime security and the existing liberal international rules-based order, and we will work closely with our international security partners to promote collective security approaches in accordance with international law, in particular the United National Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), including freedom of navigation and oversight. 

    But Defence’s activities are truly global as well, as demonstrated by NZDF’s ongoing support to Ukraine and operations in the Middle East. Just last month, the Royal New Zealand Navy deployed the frigate HMNZS Te Kaha to conduct anti-smuggling operations in the Indian Ocean as part of the New Zealand-led Combined Task Force 150. The taskforce has already had very real impact, disrupting the trade of $600 million worth of illegal drugs so far. 

    Taken together, these three new objectives set the direction for Defence, as part of an all-of-Government approach, to promote and protect our national interests.  

    Our Alliance and security partnerships 

    But I want to expand specifically on our security partnerships. New Zealand has always valued the importance of collective security and supporting international mechanisms that enable collective action and support sovereign equality of states. 

    This is reflected in the policy settings in the DCP. We have always worked with others that share our values and our interests to shape the world as we would wish it to be, and to prepare together should the worst happen.  

    Indeed, since becoming the Minister of Defence, I have taken every opportunity to meet with my international defence counterparts, to demonstrate that New Zealand is internationally engaged and willing to step up to respond to new opportunities and emerging threats.  

    But within that, we will always maintain our independent foreign policy, making our own decisions about what is in New Zealand’s interests – just as other countries do.  

    It is worth saying more about our relationship with our closest friend and only ally Australia. For this Government, it was essential that the DCP reinforce the importance we place on our alliance with Australia, and the importance in our evolving strategic environment to speak directly about these issues.  

    I’ve been in touch with my Australian defence counterpart Richard Marles, who is also their Deputy Prime Minister, to offer my congratulations following the weekend’s election. Minister Marles and I both look forward to continuing to work together on a range of issues, including our shared security. 

    We have specifically referenced the ANZUS Treaty in the DCP, as it continues to underpin the strategic relationship between New Zealand and Australia and formalises the commitments that we have to each other as allies.   

    It has done so since 1951, and the DCP does not represent any change in its interpretation. And as the Prime Minister stated, our nuclear free policy has not, and will not, change. 

    We are working to create an increasingly integrated Anzac force, which means we will be better prepared, exercised and equipped to combine our Defence Forces to defend our shared interests. To enhance our interoperability, we have committed to removing tactical, technical and procedural information-sharing barriers where they restrict our ability to operate as an integrated force.  

    Of course, this Government is also committed to maintaining and investing in a range of other security partnerships, including with our Pacific partners and our Five Eyes partners. As the Prime Minister has indicated, we are also focused on strengthening our relationships across Asia.  

    Recently, we have signed a number of agreements with partner countries. These include the India-New Zealand Defence Cooperation Arrangement, which is a milestone bilateral arrangement facilitating closer defence relations – including the establishment of regular bilateral defence engagements and opening new areas for collaboration such as deploying and training together.  

    I was in the Philippines last week to sign a Status of Visiting Forces Agreement, which sets out the legal conditions for military cooperation between our countries. 

    And as part of the NATO Indo-Pacific 4 grouping, we’re working with NATO and Indo-Pacific partners to uphold the international rules-based order and democratic values that are fundamental to our security and prosperity.  

    Deterrence and combat capability 

    We’ve also observed commentary on the much more explicit inclusion of, and focus on, deterrence in the DCP. 

    Deterrence is a normal part of how states operate and what defence forces do. At its core it is about influencing behaviour, or denying opportunities, by making other actors aware of the risks and consequences of undertaking those unwanted activities. Deterrence can be delivered through various tools. But having a credible and capable military force is a key way states deter activities and behaviours they don’t want.  

    As the DCP itself points out, deterrence is underpinned by having the necessary tools to act. In that respect the DCP recognises the increasing importance of building greater lethality into the force to be able to achieve deterrent effects.  

    It’s also important here to be clear on what the purpose of a military is. And I referred earlier to the core functions of a Defence Force.  

    Of course, modern militaries carry out a range of functions. But with the challenging world we now face, we need to reinforce the primary purpose of the military. There is no opting out from today’s strategic realities.  

    That is why the DCP signals increased strike capabilities which will increase our ability to use force if needed to protect our interests. This will be achieved through the procurement of new missile systems, which will provide an ability to respond to hostile vessels at a greater range.  

    Options for this include arming existing air and maritime platforms with missiles, such as the P-8A Poseidon fleet and the Anzac frigates, or options such as land-based strike. 

    Opportunities for innovation 

    I’m very aware of the importance of innovation and new technologies in defence.  

    Experience in Ukraine shows that conventional systems are still needed, but we’ve also seen the use of new technologies in new ways. Tanks and drones in the same battlefield are a reality.  

    New technologies and innovations will help the NZDF with intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance activities. In the short and medium term, Defence will focus on uncrewed technology, including long-range uncrewed aerial vehicles to provide more persistent maritime surveillance. The DCP also describes uncrewed surface and subsurface vessels to help monitor and protect our Exclusive Economic Zone, and support our Pacific partners.  

    There will also be a focus on strengthened cyber and information capabilities to protect the NZDF’s networks and systems, and provide defensive cyber, electronic and information warfare effects. 

    A two-yearly review cycle of this DCP will provide greater flexibility by adopting technologies earlier in their lifecycle, and by incorporating new but proven technologies. Defence is also exploring joint procurement opportunities with Australia, where it makes sense to do so. 

    A technology accelerator as part of the DCP will enable New Zealand’s high technology sector to quickly develop advanced platforms and systems specifically focused on New Zealand defence problems, and the ability to deliver these rapidly. It would help transition technology from the prototype phase to ‘service ready’ capabilities that could be readily acquired by the NZDF, albeit at limited scale.  

    We have an opportunity to partner in a better way with industry, and particularly New Zealand industry. How we intend to do this will be set out in a Defence Industry Strategy that will support implementation of the DCP. 

    One area we see innovation and scope to adapt is in the space industry. As you may know, I am also the Minister for Space.  

    I believe that here we have an opportunity to harness the incredible innovation across the New Zealand space industry to make contributions across all applications of space.  

    The world’s reliance on space technologies means that irresponsible behaviour in space has global impacts, and New Zealand has no protection from those effects.  

    Guaranteeing access to satellite communications and other systems that rely on space is critical to a range of new and existing technologies and systems used by the NZDF.  

    Part of supporting that access is ensuring we take broader action to support New Zealand’s interest in the safe, secure and responsible use of space. We are developing a new regulatory regime to ensure that operators of ground-based space infrastructure register their operations to deter foreign interference in New Zealand’s space infrastructure.  

    With partners and allies, New Zealand’s Defence agencies and our innovative space industry can contribute to international efforts to preserve and protect freedom of access to space and all the space-based services we need to prosper.   

     Closing remarks 

    I believe this DCP represents change. It is a change to a more deliberate defence policy and is a significant change in the level of investment in our defence.  

    It is a message to New Zealanders that we are prepared to invest in their security. It is a message to our partners and ally that we will contribute what we need to. And it is a message to the NZDF that we believe in them and what they do.  

    Change can be hard, and deciding to invest this amount of funding was difficult. We did not, and won’t ever, take that decision lightly.  

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: GP SURGERY REFURBS TO ENABLE OVER 8 MILLION MORE APPOINTMENTS

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    GP SURGERY REFURBS TO ENABLE OVER 8 MILLION MORE APPOINTMENTS

    Patients to access over 8.3 million new appointments this year, helping deliver the government’s Plan for Change

    Patients will benefit from over 8.3 million more appointments each year as over a thousand doctor’s surgeries receive a bricks and mortar upgrade to modernise practices.

    Backed by the government’s major cash injection of over £102 million, over 1000 GP surgeries will receive vital funding to create additional space to see more patients, boost productivity and improve patient care, following years of neglect.

    Right now, many GP surgeries could be seeing more patients, but don’t have enough room or the right facilities to accommodate them. From creating new consultation and treatment rooms to making better use of existing space, these quick fixes will help patients across the country be seen faster.

    This represents the biggest investment in GP facilities in five years and is only possible because of the difficult choices made by the government to invest £26 billion into the NHS. And it is another measure helping the government shift care out of hospital and into the community, as part of its Plan for Change.

    Health and Social Care Secretary, Wes Streeting, said:

    It will be a long road, but this government is putting in the work to fix our NHS and make it fit for the future.

    These are simple fixes for our GP surgeries but for too long they were left to ruin, allowing waiting lists to build and stopping doctors treating more patients.

    It is only because of the necessary decisions we took in the Budget that we are able to invest in GP surgeries, start tackling the 8am scramble and deliver better services for patients. The extra investment and reform this government is making, as part of its Plan for Change, will transform our NHS so it can once again be there for you when you need it.

    In Norwich, Prospect Medical Practice – serving nearly 7,000 patients in some of the city’s most deprived areas – will create new clinical rooms to deliver more patient consultations.

    In the Black Country, vacant office spaces in Harden Health Centre will be converted into clinical consulting rooms, allowing more patient access to primary care.

    Dr Amanda Doyle, National Director for Primary Care and Community Services, said:

    We know more needs to be done to improve patient access to general practice and this investment in over one thousand primary care premises will help do this.

    Bringing GP premises up to a similar condition across England is important to improve patient experience of NHS services, while making primary care a better working environment as we seek to retain and recruit more staff.

    It will also help to create additional space and extend the capacity of current premises as we improve access further and bring care closer to the communities where people live as part of the 10 Year Health Plan.

    Lord Darzi’s independent report found outdated, inefficient buildings create barriers to delivering high-quality patient care and reduce staff productivity. Today’s boost will tackle this, to make services fit for the future.

    Lord Ara Darzi said:

    My review found that the primary care estate is simply not fit for purpose, with many GP surgeries housed in inflexible, outdated buildings that cannot enable safe, high-quality care. Today’s investment marks a crucial turning point in addressing this long-standing issue, helping create the modern, purpose-built primary care facilities that patients and staff deserve.

    This is the first national capital fund for primary care estates since 2020 and part of a comprehensive package of GP support, alongside recruiting 1,500 additional GPs and reducing bureaucracy.

    Projects will be delivered during the 2025-26 financial year, with the first upgrades expected to begin in summer 2025.

    Rachel Power, Chief Executive of the Patients Association said:

    Today’s investment in improving GP surgeries is a much-needed step towards better access to care closer to home.

    Our reporting shows nearly one-third of patients struggle to book GP appointments, and we have long highlighted what matters in healthcare facilities: truly accessible spaces where everyone receives care with dignity. The potential for 8.3 million additional appointments from these refurbishments will make a real difference to communities waiting for care.

    Crucially, it delivers on what patients themselves have called for: modern, accessible spaces that support high-quality care. We look forward to seeing these upgrades rolled out, with a continued focus on ensuring patients everywhere get timely support in settings that support their dignity. This investment represents a meaningful step toward realising what patients have long been asking for. 

    Ruth Rankine, primary care director at the NHS Confederation, said:

    GPs and their teams welcome this vital capital funding to modernise premises to deliver high quality care, closer to home, and fit for the 21st century.

    Primary care is the front door of the health service and has been managing increasing demand, yet a historic lack of capital funding in estates has been one of the biggest barriers to improving productivity and creating buildings suitable for modern health care – with a fifth of GP estates pre-dating the NHS and half more than 30 years old.

    If we are serious about shifting care from hospital to community, from sickness to prevention, and from analogue to digital, then sustained investment in primary and community estates, equipment and technology is vital.

    Professor Kamila Hawthorne, Chair of the Royal College of GPs, said: 

    Our last survey of members found that two in five GPs considered their premises unfit for purpose. This not only makes for a poor experience for both patients and practice staff, but it restricts the care and services a practice can provide. Nearly 90% of respondents to our survey said their practice didn’t have enough consulting rooms, and three quarters didn’t have enough space to take on additional GP trainees.

    Today’s announcement is an encouraging interim measure that shows the Government is listening and acknowledges that inadequate GP infrastructure needs to be addressed. We now need to see this followed up by further long-term investment.

    These upgrades complement the Government’s wider NHS reforms, recognising that investment alone isn’t enough and fundamental reform is essential to fix our broken healthcare system.

    The Government is cutting pointless red tape through the new GP contract, expanding the NHS App to put patients in control of their healthcare, introducing the Advice and Guidance scheme to reduce unnecessary referrals, and enabling community pharmacists to prescribe for routine conditions with a new investment package.

    Together, these changes free up clinicians’ time and bring care closer to home.

    This is just the beginning of the transformation of primary care. Through our 10 Year Health Plan more care will be shifted out of hospitals and into communities where patients can access it more easily.

    This government is going further and faster than ever to turn around the NHS, making it fit for the future. Over 3.1 million elective appointments have already been delivered since July 2024, six months ahead of schedule.

    ENDS

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: NDA celebrates 20-year partnership with Site Stakeholder Groups

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    NDA celebrates 20-year partnership with Site Stakeholder Groups

    The Nuclear Decommissioning Authority is celebrating its unique 20-year relationship with nuclear communities.

    NDA Group CEO David Peattie speaking at the NDA Stakeholder Summit 2024

    The Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA) is celebrating its unique 20-year relationship with nuclear communities with a series of special local events and a blueprint for refreshing the relationship, fit for the future.

    Site Stakeholder Groups (SSGs) were created at NDA sites in response to the Energy Act 2004, giving communities a platform to scrutinise the organisation’s work and ensure two-way dialogue between local residents and the nuclear industry.

    The NDA is responsible for decommissioning the UK’s earliest nuclear sites safely, securely and sustainably, leaving a positive legacy for future generations. So, engaging with the communities around its sites about how it carries out this nationally important mission is crucial to its licence to operate.

    Led by elected community volunteers independent of the NDA, the SSGs have played a vital role in shaping NDA strategy and have provided a valuable sounding board on a wide range of issues.

    NDA Group Chief Executive, David Peattie, paid tribute to the work of the SSGs and the spirit of community volunteerism over the past 20 years, saying:

    Our nuclear communities are the foundation on which much of our work in cleaning up the UK’s nuclear legacy is built. The commitment in time and effort of our SSG chairs and vice-chairs has been considerable in representing the viewpoints of their communities.

    We’re marking our 20th anniversary of this unique relationship and I would like to use this opportunity to pay tribute to the work of our community representatives and look forward to continuing dialogue and increasing understanding of our mission.

    To mark the 20th anniversary, the NDA is inviting members from all 14 SSGs around the UK to meetings showcasing the progress made over the last two decades and looking ahead to the future of its nuclear sites.

     There is also work ongoing in partnership with the communities to review and update best practice guidelines for how the groups operate and engage with the NDA, in line with modern communication requirements.

    John McNamara, NDA Director of Communities and Stakeholder Engagement, has been involved with SSGs since their inception. He said:

    Our Site Stakeholder Groups are revered internationally as best practice when it comes to independent scrutiny by communities of the nuclear industry. They have often been cited by organisations such as the IAEA, the US Energy Department and industry colleagues in many countries including Canada, France, and Japan as a blueprint for how communities should interact and hold the nuclear industry to account.

    I’ve worked with these volunteers for many years, and I’m constantly reminded of the terrific job they do. Their commitment benefits the NDA every bit as much as it does the local residents they serve.

    Cllr Aled Morris Jones, Chair of the National SSG Forum which represents the views of NDA nuclear communities, said:

    The SSGs are a crucial supporting pillar of effective local stakeholder engagement which gives the NDA its social licence to operate.

    Our role as an informed ‘critical friend’ ensures the NDA understands the key issues and perspectives within our communities and that our voices are heard as we scrutinise and comment on their work plans and how they go about their business.

    We’ve demonstrated our value during the past 20 years, and we remain committed to continuing to serve our communities as decommissioning continues over the coming decades.

    The NDA’s 20th Anniversary roadshow will visit all NDA sites, from Dungeness on the Kent coast and up to Dounreay on the north coast of Scotland – and all points in-between.

    The review of the SSGs was carried out with wide-ranging input from communities and other stakeholders including the nuclear regulators and local authorities. Recommendations set to be implemented include:

    • Updated NDA guidance for SSGs to provide more support for community volunteers
    • More regular meetings between SSG chairs and the NDA to provide more industry context and consider best practice suggestions
    • Standardisation of documents and websites
    • Assistance to allow SSGs to communicate more widely in their communities
    • Using technology to facilitate more virtual online and hybrid meetings, using evenings too to make it easier for more people to attend
    • Formulating an outreach plan to attract more diversity to SSG meetings

    If you would like to read the updated Guidance or are interested in attending an SSG meeting, please visit the SSG website: Site Stakeholder Groups – Home.

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Colin Allars reappointed as Chair of the Independent Restraint Review Panel

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Colin Allars reappointed as Chair of the Independent Restraint Review Panel

    The Secretary of State for Justice, Rt Hon Shabana Mahmood MP, has announced the reappointment of Colin Allars as the Chair to the Independent Restraint Review Panel.

    The Secretary of State for Justice, Rt Hon Shabana Mahmood MP, has announced the reappointment of Colin Allars as the Chair to the Independent Restraint Review Panel (IRRP) for a second term of 3 years. His reappointment will run from 1 January 2026 to 31 December 2028.

    Mr Allars’ original appointment tenure commenced from 1 January 2023 for a 3-year term to run until 31 December 2025.

    The Independent Restraint Review Panel (IRRP) was set up in response to Charlie Taylor’s review of pain-inducing techniques in the youth estate in 2016. The IRRP reviews incidents at youth custody sites when serious injuries or warning signs have been identified, or where a pain inducing technique has been deployed. In addition to the mechanics of restraint, the IRRP can make observations about behaviour management and staff behaviour and leadership. Although the IRRP is not regulated by the Commissioner for Public Appointments, this reappointment has been made in line with the Governance Code on Public Appointments.

    Collin Allars Biography

    Colin Allars has been Chair of the Independent Restraint Review Panel since 2021. Mr Allars is also the Non-Executive Chair of the Government Facilities Services (GFSL), appointed in 2018. An engineering graduate, Colin has worked in both private and public sectors in a wide range of delivery focused roles. He retired, from full time employment, in May 2021 having served as Chief Executive Officer of the Youth Justice Board; NDPB responsible for oversight of and advice on the youth justice system.

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Appointment of 4 members to the Advisory Committee on Conscientious Objectors

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Appointment of 4 members to the Advisory Committee on Conscientious Objectors

    The Secretary of State has announced the appointments of Dr Hannah Bows, Suzanne McCarthy, Sean Harvey and Asrar Ul-Haq as members of the Advisory Committee on Conscientious Objectors.

    The Secretary of State has announced the appointments of Dr Hannah Bows, Sean Harvey, Suzanne McCarthy and Asrar Ul-Haq as members of the Advisory Committee on Conscientious Objectors for ten years from 1 July 2025.

    Biographies

    Dr Hannah Bows

    Dr Bows is currently Professor in Criminal Law at Durham University. She is also the deputy director of the Centre for Research into Violence and Abuse, where she leads and teaches on the criminal law module and supervises undergraduate and postgraduate students.

    Dr Bows has declared no political activity.

    Suzanne McCarthy

    Mrs McCarthy has significant public sector experience in the areas of governance, regulation, standards, fitness to practice and audit and risk management. She is currently the Chair of the Fire Standards Board, the Valuation Tribunal Service, the National Guardian Office’s Accountability and Liaison Board and the Standards Committee of the Fundraising Regulator.

    Mrs McCarthy has declared no political activity.

    Sean Harvey

    Mr Harvey has a range of earlier career experiences, including ten years as a primary school teacher. He now sits as a lay panel member at the Health and Care Professions Council, as a member of the Conduct Committee at the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales and a panel chair at Social Care Wales. He is a magistrate who also sits in the Crown Court on appeals.

    Mr Harvey has declared no political activity.

    Asrar Ul-Haq

    Mr Ul-Haq is a retired Police Officer with over 30 years of experience in a variety of policing roles on a local and national level. He is a registered Subject Matter Expert with the National Crime Agency. He is also an independent lead consultant, supporting organisations to improve service delivery, develop leadership and professionalism. Mr Ul-Haq is a member of the Greater Manchester Advisory Committee to the Lord Chancellor and the Lord Chief Justice and an Independent Member of the Parole Board.

    Mr Ul-Haq had declared no political activity.

    The Advisory Committee on Conscientious Objectors (ACCO) makes recommendations on conscientious objection claims from Armed Forces personnel where an application to retire or resign a commission or for discharge on the grounds of conscience have not been accepted by service authorities. ACCO is a non-statutory Non-Departmental Public Body sponsored by the Ministry of Defence.

    It was established in 1970, but its history can be traced back to the tribunals set up by the National Service (Armed Forces) Act 1939. The 1970 arrangements included an agreement that the Lord Chancellor appoints to the public appointee roles on the Committee to ensure that ACCO maintains its independence from the MOD.

    It is for this reason that MOJ manages the campaign. As public appointments, the roles are subject to the provisions of the Governance Code on Public Appointments (the Code).

    Owned by the Cabinet Office, the Code sets out the principles governing such recruitment and the role of Ministers. Roles covered by the Code are also subject to regulation by the independent Commissioner for Public Appointments (CPA).

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Winners Announced at Taiwan’s Largest AI Competition: The Best AI Awards – 1,253 Teams from 37 Countries Compete for Top Honors in AI Innovation

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    To promote AI innovation and foster emerging talent, Taiwan’s Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) hosted the inaugural Best AI Awards Finals and Awards Ceremony on May 3 at the Taipei World Trade Center Hall 1. The competition attracted 1,253 elite teams from 36 countries. From the 233 finalists, 93 awards were presented, including eight Gold Prizes awarded to leading companies and academic teams from HiTRUST Incorporated, eYs3D Microelectronics, Data Yoo Application CO., Jmem Technology, National Central University, National Taiwan University, as well as standout international entries from the UK and the Philippines.

    Speaking at the event, Deputy Minister of Economic Affairs Ho Chin-Tsang highlighted that the competition served as a platform to bring together talent cultivation, real-world application, and industry demand. This year’s entries, he noted, exemplify how AI innovation can be combined with creativity to meet real-world needs. Looking ahead, the Ministry will continue to align policy direction and resource investment with industry needs to bring more AI innovations to market and create meaningful local impact.

    Kuo Chao-Chung, Director General of the Department of Industrial Technology, noted that in addition to enthusiastic participation from domestic companies and universities, the inaugural competition also attracted 353 international entrants from 36 countries, including India, the Philippines, the United States, and the United Kingdom. This strong turnout highlights the Awards’ growing significance as not just a Taiwanese initiative, but a global platform for AI innovation and exchange. Beyond the competition itself, the Ministry of Economic Affairs is working with academic and research institutions to support enterprises in design, product development, and prototyping. It is also partnering with agencies such as the Small and Medium Enterprise and Startup Administration and the Industrial Development Administration to help accelerate AI-driven transformation across industries.

    Chiou Chyou-Huey, Director General of the Industrial Development Administration and a key advocate behind the competition, described the Best AI Awards as Taiwan’s largest and most prestigious AI contest. The Award offers some of the highest prizes and maintains a highly competitive selection process with a winning rate of just 7.4%. He expressed hopes that through further efforts, AI can be integrated across all sectors to drive widespread industrial innovation.

    This year’s entries spanned a diverse range of industries, including ICT (18.4%), manufacturing (16.2%), healthcare (15.9%), wholesale and retail (10.2%), education (8.6%), and finance (7.8%). More than 100 startups, SMEs, and publicly listed companies took part, accelerating the adoption of AI across Taiwan’s industrial landscape.

    Looking ahead, the Ministry of Economic Affairs plans to make the Best AI Awards an annual flagship event for advancing AI development, talent cultivation, and innovation. The finals will be held each May alongside COMPUTEX, with over 20 domestic and international investors and buyers invited to participate in matchmaking sessions. Through this series of initiatives, the Ministry aims to foster new AI applications, accelerate workforce development, and help realize Taiwan’s vision of becoming a global AI Island.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Eternal Memory: China Does Not Forget Soviet Volunteer Pilots Who Died in the Anti-Japanese War

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    NANJING, May 6 (Xinhua) — “The Chinese people will always cherish the memory of the Russians who helped China in the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression,” said Xue Lian, director of the Nanjing Anti-Japanese War Airmen’s Martyrs’ Memorial Museum.

    As she reported, soon this museum will once again publish additional information about the Soviet hero pilots who died on Chinese territory.

    HISTORICAL MEMORY

    Established in 2009, the Nanjing Anti-Japanese War Airmen’s Martyrs’ Memorial Museum is China’s first memorial museum for international airmen who died in the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. Its collection contains rich historical materials about the air forces of China, the Soviet Union, the United States and other countries that fought together against Japanese aggression in China during World War II.

    Since 1995, the names of 4,299 Chinese and foreign fallen heroes, including 236 Soviets, have been engraved on marble memorial steles at this museum in Nanjing, East China’s Jiangsu Province.

    After the start of China’s nationwide war against Japanese aggression, the Soviet Union was the first to provide China with air support. During these difficult years, more than 200 Soviet volunteer air forces perished in China.

    Sergei Dmitrievich Smirnov was one of them. He died in an air battle over Nanchang in 1938 and was buried in the same Chinese city. It is noteworthy that he became the first of all Soviet hero pilots who died in China whose relatives the above-mentioned museum managed to contact.

    On July 7, 2024, on the anniversary of the beginning of China’s nationwide war against Japanese aggression, S. Smirnov’s great-grandson Alexander Vikman, who was in Nanjing on business and had spent a long time searching for information about the burial of his great-grandfather and had visited China many times, visited the above-mentioned museum and finally found his name on one of the memorial steles.

    Let us recall that shortly before this, the museum published a list of Chinese pilots who died in the War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression, which inspired A. Wickman to appeal for help. In September and November 2024, lists of American and Soviet hero pilots were also published, respectively. In particular, the list of Soviet hero pilots was published in full by the museum for the first time.

    “The idea to clarify and publish the lists of Chinese and foreign heroic pilots who died in the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression arose because I was deeply moved by the search for information about the fallen Chinese pilot by his relatives, which lasted for more than 80 years,” Xue Lian said.

    She also realized that there could be many more such relatives of fallen heroes. Because of the geographical uncertainty of Air Force operations, their relatives do not even know where their loved ones died, let alone obtain other detailed information.

    “It is still difficult for the relatives of fallen Chinese heroes to find information about them, let alone the relatives of fallen foreign pilots,” Xue Lian said.

    “We have a responsibility to disclose accurate information about these fallen aviators to the public so that more people know about their heroism. It is necessary to urgently search for their families and forever preserve the precious memory of this story.”

    RESPECT FOR HEROES

    Due to the limited historical sources and the lack of language specialists, the museum’s work on collecting information about Soviet heroes progressed slowly at the time.

    Miao Lei, who studied in Russia for many years and speaks Russian, started this job in 2020.

    “Most of the heroes have information about their identities, years of birth and dates of death, but there are no photographs of them, no information about their combat actions in China and no information about their places of death and burial. In addition, some of the Soviet volunteer pilots took part in the war under pseudonyms, which made it difficult to find genuine information about their identities,” he noted.

    To overcome the many difficulties, the museum sought support from universities and commissioned their experts and researchers, including a team of teachers and students from Nanjing University, to carry out part of the work of collecting relevant information. At the same time, through interdepartmental coordination, experts in the field of Russian language and cultural and historical research were found to carry out the joint work.

    In September 2024, the museum’s working team visited Russia and Belarus to collect information about Soviet hero pilots. During the trip, museum representatives in Moscow met with a local resident, Dmitry Pugachev, and received photographs of S. Smirnov from him for the first time.

    “Sergey Dmitrievich is my great-uncle. When they told me that they had found his name in the museum in Nanjing, I burst into tears,” D. Pugachev recalled.

    “When I saw the photograph with my grandfather’s name on the wall of the memorial in Nanjing, I felt some inexplicable connection with Sergei Dmitrievich, whom, unfortunately, I had never met. I was extremely touched by such care and respect on the part of the Chinese people and the Chinese state for the memory of the Soviet volunteer pilots,” he added.

    “We gave D. Pugachev a book of contacts with relatives of fallen heroes, which records the heroes’ deeds and our museum’s contacts, to help them contact us,” Miao Lei explained, noting that the museum also created archives for Soviet hero pilots, including Grigory Akimovich Kulishenko.

    The museum has also established cooperation with the Central Museum of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation /CMAF RF/. Thanks to this, more and more information about the Soviet hero pilots who died in the anti-Japanese war is becoming available.

    According to Miao Lei, additional information that will be released soon includes specific positions of aviation technicians, such as a tinsmith, and the dates of death of some heroes, confirmed through research.

    “In the future, we will continue to publish more information about adjustments and amendments to the list of Soviet heroes, as well as other additional information as we collect and research materials,” he said.

    “These characters are the ‘most familiar strangers’ to us. We have never met them, but we mention their names every day when telling the story to museum visitors,” Miao Lei said.

    “We are doing our utmost to restore the true image of each of the fallen heroes, and this is the respect we should show them,” Miao Lei said.

    JUSTICE AND PEACE

    The current year is marked by the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression, the Great Patriotic War and the World Anti-Fascist War. China and Russia made enormous national sacrifices for the sake of victory, and also made an indelible historical contribution to the cause of peace and human progress.

    The efforts of the Nanjing Anti-Japanese War Airmen’s Memorial Museum have received support from the Russian side.

    In September 2024, Advisor to the Governor of the Moscow Region, member of the Public Council of Rossotrudnichestvo Artem Semenov visited the museum and presented it with precious copies of documentaries from the 1930s, telling about the heroic struggle of the Chinese people against the Japanese invaders.

    “It is a great honor for me to serve the common cause in this way – preserving the historical memory of the joint struggle of the peoples of our countries with the Japanese and Nazi invaders for the freedom of not only our Motherland, but also of humanity as a whole,” shared A. Semenov, expressing gratitude to the museum for so carefully preserving the memory of the Soviet heroes who gave their lives for the freedom of China and brought the main victory closer at a great cost.

    On the museum grounds, in addition to the memorial steles of famous heroes whose names have already been carved, space was also left to perpetuate the memory of those heroes whose names are still unknown.

    “We hope that the names of all Soviet heroes will deservedly appear here,” commented A. Semenov.

    Now, the Nanjing Anti-Japanese War Martyrs’ Memorial Museum is holding an exhibition on the theme “Heroes forged immortality together” dedicated to the Soviet pilots who died in China on a permanent basis. This exhibition, jointly organized by the museum and the Central Military and Military Council of the Russian Federation, tells more people the story of the joint struggle of Chinese and Soviet pilots against the Japanese invaders.

    “More than 80 years have passed, there are fewer and fewer people who survived World War II, and those who know about the heroic deeds of the war heroes continue to grow old. There are also fewer and fewer people who can provide clear and reliable historical memory. Since most of the archives at that time were paper, they were not easy to preserve during wars and turmoil, and finding relevant materials can be very difficult,” said Xue Lian.

    “The Russian people provided valuable support to the Chinese people in the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression,” she said. “In the future, we look forward to cooperating with relevant departments, institutions and non-governmental organizations on the Russian side to find more historical materials about Soviet hero pilots, so that the feats of these young people who gave their lives for justice and peace will forever remain in the annals of history.” -0- /Authors of the article: Xinhua Correspondent Zheng Dongrui, Zhang Chenguang, Darya Karakash, Lu Huadong, Xia Peng/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Chinese agricultural investment and technology are continuously flowing into ASEAN countries

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    In recent years, with the steady development of economic and trade relations between China and ASEAN, agricultural trade between China and ASEAN countries has seen favorable dynamics. ASEAN has been China’s largest trading partner in agricultural products for eight consecutive years.

    While a wide range of high-quality agricultural products from ASEAN countries are becoming increasingly popular with Chinese consumers, Chinese investment and technology in agriculture have also been continuously flowing into ASEAN countries. In recent years, China and ASEAN countries have jointly carried out hundreds of agricultural cooperation and technical exchange projects, including pest prevention and control, rice yield enhancement methods and rice management. Agricultural technology demonstration bases and experimental stations for breeding promising crop varieties have been established.

    For example, in Cambodia, under Chinese-Cambodian cooperation, demonstration bases for growing rubber, coconuts, peppers and other crops are being consistently created, which helps to increase the yield and efficiency of local crop production. The Chinese side holds training seminars on standardized banana production technologies, transferring experience in the industrialization of fruit cultivation. Together with Cambodia, the construction of a center for the selection of valuable tree species has been completed, which contributes to the sustainable development of forestry.

    Hu Bingchuan, a research fellow at the Institute of Rural Development of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences and director of the Agricultural Trade and Policy Research Department, noted that in recent years, in addition to trade, China and ASEAN countries have actively cooperated in agricultural technology and experience sharing, achieving significant results.

    This cooperation helps ASEAN countries improve the yield and quality of agricultural products, expand the range and increase the volume of exports, which in turn promotes further growth of agricultural trade between China and ASEAN countries, improves the living standards of people and promotes agricultural modernization in the region.

    Liu Amin, deputy director and research fellow of the Institute of International Studies, Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences, stressed that China and ASEAN countries have strong complementarities in agricultural technology, scientific research cooperation and environmentally sustainable development.

    China has been disseminating advanced hybrid rice cultivation technology to ASEAN countries such as Thailand, which has effectively improved rice yield and quality. The exchange of experiences between China and ASEAN countries in agricultural mechanization and pest control has given new impetus to the development of agriculture in these countries.

    The negative list management model under RCEP further simplifies investment in agriculture and lowers the threshold for foreign investment. The successful hosting of international exhibitions such as the China International Consumer Goods Expo has created an effective platform for China-ASEAN agricultural trade networking.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Programme for Government must have people and planet at its core

    Source: Scottish Greens

    06 May 2025 Climate

    Scotland needs bold change.

    More in Climate

    The First Minister’s Programme for Government must take bold action for people and planet, says Scottish Green Co-Leader Patrick Harvie.

    Speaking ahead of the First Minister publishing his programme, Mr Harvie said:

    “John Swinney needs to be ambitious and ensure that Scotland is taking meaningful action to cut child poverty and tackle the climate emergency. That means putting people and planet at the core of his plans.

    “The Greens have championed radical change in Scotland, now the SNP must match our ambition to create a positive future for everyone across the country.

    “Scottish Greens secured the expansion of free school meals for pupils across Scotland, but we need action to ensure that all children receive them. We also secured a £2 bus fare cap that will start with a pilot but which we want to see rolled out across Scotland to make public transport more affordable and save people money.

    “It is deeply disappointing that the SNP have dropped plans to ban so-called ‘conversion therapy’ and have dropped the long-planned and promised Misogyny Bill. LGBTQ+ people across Scotland will want reassurances that the government is still on their side, but that can’t come from ripping-up promises and commitments.

    “With wildfires having torn apart our iconic countryside, we need to be bold for our climate, but the Scottish Government has taken too many backward steps, from junking its target to reduce car numbers to hiking the cost of train and bus tickets.

    “Scottish communities are finding themselves on the frontline of the crisis. We need to get serious, and that means ensuring robust measures to promote public transport while introducing a credible plan to make homes cheaper and greener to heat.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: ZA Miner Announces Trump Coin as a New Payment Method and Mining Option for Users

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ZA Miner integrates Trump Coin as a payment method and mining asset, diversifying the platform’s offerings.

    Mining the future: ZA Miner introduces Trump Coin for collectors and blockchain enthusiasts.

    MIDDLESEX, United Kingdom, May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ZA Miner, a leading digital asset trading platform, is excited to announce the addition of Trump Coin as both a payment method and a mining asset on its platform. This new development comes as part of ZA Miner’s ongoing efforts to diversify its services and keep pace with the growing trend of cryptocurrency in the market.

    With the integration of Trump Coin, users can now leverage the token for mining activities, as well as utilize it for various payment methods. This expansion gives ZA Miner users a new, politically themed digital asset with both cultural and financial relevance. Trump Coin, based on the Ethereum blockchain, provides a secure and transparent platform for users who are interested in politically inspired digital assets.

    “We’ve introduced Trump Coin to offer our users more options and flexibility in the evolving crypto landscape,” said a spokesperson from ZA Miner. “The token now serves as a versatile asset—allowing users to make payments, mine, and participate in the growing crypto market trend. We are pleased to add Trump Coin as part of our diversified range of digital assets.”

    In addition to the payment and mining options, ZA Miner is also introducing a range of different mining packages and payment methods, aimed at meeting the needs of a wide range of users. With Trump Coin now available for both payment and mining, users can explore new opportunities for earning and trading in the cryptocurrency space.

    Moreover, ZA Miner is actively tracking the exchange rate trends of Trump Coin, giving users access to valuable insights on how to maximize their potential earnings by trading or holding the coin. The platform’s users will also have access to tools to monitor the performance of Trump Coin and its mining potential.

    As part of its continued innovation, ZA Miner is also exploring the release of additional digital assets, including limited edition NFTs tied to Trump Coin ownership, to further enhance the appeal for collectors and crypto enthusiasts.

    Trump Coin can now be used for payments, mining, and trading on ZA Miner’s platform. For more information or to start using Trump Coin, visit www.zaminer.com.

    Disclaimer: Trump Coin is a digital asset created by ZA Miner. It is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or associated with Donald J. Trump, The Trump Organization, or any related entities. The use of “Trump” in the name is purely thematic and does not imply any connection to the former President or his organizations.

    Media Contact:
    SHEIKH, Anisah Fatema
    ZA FUNDINGS LTD
    info@zaminer.com
    https://www.zaminer.com/

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d45904af-0067-4073-bf5d-45ed94cb3b27

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: ZA Miner Launches Trump Coin, a Politically Inspired Ethereum-Based Token

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    The new digital asset aims to capture cultural interest while offering functionality on the blockchain, along with diverse mining packages and payment options.

    Inside the ZA Miner operation: Powering a new generation of digital assets like Trump Coin.

    MIDDLESEX, United Kingdom, May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ZA Miner, a global platform for digital asset trading and innovation, today announces the launch of Trump Coin, a newly introduced cryptocurrency inspired by the cultural and political presence of the 45th President of the United States. Built on the Ethereum blockchain, Trump Coin merges the appeal of political memorabilia with the reliability of blockchain technology.

    Now available for trading on www.zaminer.com, Trump Coin is designed for users who are drawn to tokens with thematic relevance and real blockchain utility. The asset is being positioned as both a collector’s item and a functional token in the decentralized finance (DeFi) space.

    “We’ve seen a growing interest in tokens that represent cultural themes,” said a spokesperson from ZA Miner. “With Trump Coin, we’re offering our users a politically themed digital asset that also maintains transactional utility and scarcity.”

    As part of its commitment to diversifying the crypto ecosystem, ZA Miner has expanded payment options to include Trump Coin. This allows users to make payments for mining and trading activities using this new asset. Furthermore, ZA Miner offers a variety of cryptocurrency mining packages, allowing users to select packages that best fit their investment and mining preferences.

    The token features limited availability and is backed by the security, transparency, and efficiency of Ethereum’s infrastructure. In the coming months, ZA Miner also plans to launch a series of Trump Coin-related NFTs, giving collectors additional ways to engage with the asset.

    In addition to its role as a digital asset, Trump Coin’s exchange rate trend is being closely monitored, offering potential financial opportunities for those looking to profit from its value movement within the broader cryptocurrency market.

    Trump Coin is not just an investment opportunity—it also represents ZA Miner’s broader mission to offer unique digital assets that mirror public interest trends while remaining grounded in proven blockchain frameworks. Early adoption of Trump Coin has shown promising signs, with positive engagement from crypto forums and community discussions.

    To learn more or to trade Trump Coin, visit www.zaminer.com.

    Disclaimer: Trump Coin is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or associated with Donald J. Trump, The Trump Organization, or any related entities.

    Media Contact:
    SHEIKH, Anisah Fatema
    ZA FUNDINGS LTD
    info@zaminer.com
    https://www.zaminer.com/

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e6942b0f-72bc-435b-9ab9-09d0841816fe

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Gender quotas are the only way for the Liberals to go: Simon Birmingham

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra

    The Liberals’ former Senate Leader Simon Birmingham has urged the party to adopt quotas for its women in parliament, in an excoriating post-election critique.

    Birmingham, a leading moderate who retired from parliament in January, says given the Liberals’ parliamentary representation will be at an all-time low, “such quotas could and should be hard, fast and ambitious”.

    “There must be a reshaping of the party to connect it with the modern Australian community. Based on who’s not voting Liberal, it must start with women. Based on where they’re not voting, it must focus on metropolitan Australia.”

    In a LinkedIn post, Birmingham admits the concept of quotas might be “somewhat illiberal”.

    “But I struggle to think of any alternatives if there is to be a new direction that truly demonstrates change and truly guarantees that the party will better reflect the composition of modern society.”

    “Standing in the way of such changes are an increasingly narrow membership base, both in numbers and outlook,” he says

    The Liberals have committed to targets for women but without success in reaching them. There has been strong opposition within the party to quotas.

    Former Liberal speaker Andrew Wallace told Sky on Tuesday, “I am uncomfortable with quotas because fundamentally I believe that the best person for the job should get the job”.

    Birmingham suggests the next Liberal leader should consider the use of citizen assemblies “to re-engage back into candidate selection and policy formulation the very forgotten people who Menzies spoke of. Small business owners. Leaders of sporting, multicultural, service and other community organisations. Skilled professionals, especially professional women.

    “The party can no longer expect such people to come to it as members but must find new ways to go to them.”

    Birmingham says lessons from previous failures haven’t been learned.

    He writes that “nothing can be sacrosanct if the party is to find a pathway to relevance with new generations of voters”.

    “The broad church model of a party that successfully melds liberal and conservative thinking is clearly broken. The Liberal party is not seen as remotely liberal and the brand of conservatism projected is clearly perceived as too harsh and  out of touch.

    “A Liberal Party fit for the future will need to reconnect with and represent liberal ideology, belief and thinking in a new and modern context.”

    Birmingham says Australians still  seek the freedoms liberalism stands for. “Yet in 2025 the Liberal Party is seen as grudging if not intolerant of the way some exercise those freedoms. It must be a party that respects all individual choices, actions and opinions, in the way John Stuart Mill articulated 200 years ago, limited only when they would cause harm to others.

    “Respect, inclusion and freedom can stand together, with support for all families, and enterprises. But not alongside judgemental attitudes that exclude or isolate some.”

    Birmingham says the party has to reconcile itself on policy questions “from the size and role of government, through challenges of our time like budget sustainability, climate change and national security”.

    Michelle Grattan 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. Gender quotas are the only way for the Liberals to go: Simon Birmingham – https://theconversation.com/gender-quotas-are-the-only-way-for-the-liberals-to-go-simon-birmingham-255958

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Participants of the federal stage of the All-Russian competition “My Good Business” have been determined

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    The results of the interregional stage of the All-Russian competition of socially responsible initiatives of entrepreneurs and NPOs “My Good Business”, organized by the Ministry of Economic Development of Russia, have been summed up. The federal operator of the competition is the State University of Management.

    This year, 2,292 applications were submitted to the competition, of which 1,079 made it to the interregional stage. 101 projects from 51 regions of the country were admitted to the federal stage.

    The leaders in terms of the number of participants in the federal stage are the Leningrad Region (six projects), the Saratov Region (five projects), as well as Moscow, the Republic of Buryatia, the Volgograd, Kaliningrad, Nizhny Novgorod and Tyumen Regions (four projects each).

    “The presence of social entrepreneurship in the country is an indicator of the maturity of society. And the fact that this year 20 times more applications were submitted than reached the federal stage is an indicator of the presence of active members in our society who are ready to solve problems on their own initiative. The competition, in addition to its direct task – encouraging caring citizens, also serves as a platform for consolidating like-minded people, a place where they can meet, create common projects, exchange experience, including interregional experience,” said Vladimir Stroyev, Rector of the State University of Management.

    The final stage of the competition will last until June 1. The award ceremony for the winners will also take place in June.

    “Social entrepreneurship in Russia is showing significant quantitative and qualitative growth. According to the results of 2024, the register of social business of the Ministry of Economic Development of Russia increased by 11%, exceeding the mark of 12 thousand participants. And one of the markers of qualitative changes in the sector is the My Good Business competition. This year, 101 initiatives passed to the federal stage, which is almost twice as many as last year. This indicates a more in-depth study of projects that offer comprehensive solutions to urgent social problems,” said Deputy Minister of Economic Development of Russia, graduate of the State University of Management Tatyana Ilyushnikova.

    This year, My Good Business is being held for the 10th time. Small business entities, self-employed individuals and NPOs are participating in seven main nominations of the Help with Meaning track, covering youth entrepreneurship, employment of socially vulnerable groups, development of folk crafts and social startups, initiatives of mothers-entrepreneurs and other areas.

    There are also special nominations: “Good Guy” – for the best social practices in small towns and villages, and “Cultural Code” – for projects and programs in the cultural and educational sphere, as well as in the sphere of healthy lifestyle, physical education, sports and social tourism.

    The competition has been held since 2015 and is designed to identify and support the best practices of social entrepreneurship. Over the entire period, more than 10 thousand entrepreneurs and non-profit organizations have taken part in it. The winners receive special prizes and information support. The project consists of several stages: collection of applications, regional selection, transition to the interregional level and the final.

    The organizer of the All-Russian competition of socially responsible initiatives of entrepreneurs and NGOs “My Good Business” is the Ministry of Economic Development of Russia, the federal operator of the competition is the State University of Management, the partner is the “Our Future” foundation.

    Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 05/06/2025

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 6 May 2025 News release Health inequities are shortening lives by decades

    Source: World Health Organisation

    A global report published by the World Health Organization (WHO) highlights that the underlying causes of ill health often stem from factors beyond the health sector, such as lack of quality housing, education and job opportunities.

    The new World report on social determinants of health equity shows that such determinants can be responsible for a dramatic reduction of healthy life expectancy – sometimes by decades – in high- and low-income countries alike. For example, people in the country with the lowest life expectancy will, on average, live 33 years shorter than those born in the country with the highest life expectancy. The social determinants of health equity can influence people’s health outcomes more than genetic influences or access to health care.

    “Our world is an unequal one. Where we are born, grow, live, work and age significantly influences our health and well-being,” said WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. “But change for the better is possible. This world report illustrates the importance of addressing the interlinked social determinants and provides evidence-based strategies and policy recommendations to help countries improve health outcomes for all.”

    The report underscores that inequities in health are closely linked to degrees of social disadvantage and levels of discrimination. Health follows a social gradient whereby the more deprived the area in which people live, the lower their incomes are and they have fewer years of education, poorer health, with less number of healthy years to live. These inequities are exacerbated in populations that face discrimination and marginalization. One of the vivid examples is the fact that Indigenous Peoples have lower life expectancy than non-Indigenous Peoples in high- or low-income countries alike.

    Social injustice driving inequities

    The World report on social determinants of health equity is the first of its kind published since 2008 when the WHO Commission on Social Determinants of Health released its final report laying out targets for 2040 for reducing gaps between and within countries in life expectancy, childhood and maternal mortality. The 2025 world report, shows that these targets are likely to be missed.

    Although data is scarce, there is sufficient evidence to show that health inequities within countries are often widening. WHO data cites that children born in poorer countries are 13 times more likely to die before the age of 5 than in wealthier countries. Modelling shows that the lives of 1.8 million children annually could be saved by closing the gap and enhancing equity between the poorest and wealthiest sectors of the population within low- and-middle-income countries.

    The report shows that while there was a 40% decline in maternal mortality globally between 2000 and 2023, low- and lower-middle-income countries still account for 94% of maternal deaths.

    Women from disadvantaged groups are more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes. In many high-income countries, racial and ethnic inequities in maternal death rates persist, for example, in some areas Indigenous women were up to three times more likely to die during childbirth. There are also strong associations between higher levels of gender inequality, including child marriage, and higher maternal mortality rates.

    Breaking the cycle

    WHO emphasizes that measures to address income inequality, structural discrimination, conflict and climate disruptions are key to overcoming deep-seated health inequities. Climate change, for example, is estimated to push an additional 68–135 million people into extreme poverty over the next 5 years.

    Currently, 3.8 billion people worldwide are deprived of adequate social protection coverage, such as child/paid sick leave benefits, with direct and lasting impact on their health outcomes. High debt burdens have been crippling the capacity of governments to invest in these services, with the total value of interest payments made by the world’s 75 poorest countries increasing fourfold over the past decade.

    WHO calls for collective action from national and local governments and leaders within health, academia, research, civil society, alongside the private sector to:

    • address economic inequality and invest in social infrastructure and universal public services;
    • overcome structural discrimination and the determinants and impacts of conflicts, emergencies and forced migration;
    • manage the challenges and opportunities of climate action and the digital transformation to promote health equity co-benefits; and
    • promote governance arrangements that prioritize action on the social determinants of health equity, including maintaining cross-government policy platforms and strategies, allocating money, power and resources to the most local level where it can have greatest impact, and empowering community engagement and civil society.

    Editor’s note 

    In resolution WHA74.16 (2021), the Seventy-fourth World Health Assembly requested the WHO Director-General to prepare an updated report on the social determinants of health, their impact on health and health equity, progress made so far in addressing them, and recommendations for further action. The World report on social determinants of health equity provides an update to the conclusion of the WHO Commission on the Social Determinants of Health in 2008 which stated that “social injustice kills on a grand scale”.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Digitalization Can Reduce Persistent Inequality in Asia and the Pacific

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    Digitalization can be a powerful tool to help reduce persistent economic inequality in Asia and the Pacific—but to harness its potential, governments need to narrow “digital gaps,” including gaps in infrastructure, access, and skills, according to a new report by ADB.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Seminar on China’s Economic Development and Cooperation with Central Asian Countries Held

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, May 6 (Xinhua) — A seminar on China’s (Sichuan Province’s) economic development and cooperation with Central Asian countries was held online late last month, the Sichuan Zaixian (Sichuan Online) news portal reported.

    More than 60 representatives from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan took part in the event, dedicated to the analysis of the experience of developing county-level economy and new-type urbanization in Sichuan Province (Southwest China).

    At the seminar, Qi Yiming, spokesperson for the Sichuan Provincial Development and Reform Commission, and Li Jiangbo, deputy mayor of Deyang City in the province, shared their views on urbanization, innovation in economic development and cooperation between China and Central Asia with their foreign counterparts, according to the Foreign Affairs Office of the Sichuan Provincial People’s Government.

    According to Qi Yiming, in recent years, Sichuan Provincial Government has deeply implemented the new-type urbanization strategy, made great efforts to develop public services in a balanced manner, accelerated the construction of comfortable, sustainable and smart cities, and significantly improved the urbanization rate in the province, with the urbanization rate rising from 43.4 percent to 60 percent.

    The seminar was organized in accordance with the agreement reached at the 5th meeting of the foreign ministers of China and Central Asian countries, which took place from November 30 to December 1 last year in Chengdu, the capital of this province. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Interview with Stephen Cenatiempo, Canberra Breakfast, 2CC

    Source: Australian Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Industry

    Stephen Cenatiempo:

    The Member for Fenner, Assistant Minister for Competition, Charities and Treasury, Dr Andrew Leigh. Good morning Andrew.

    Andrew Leigh:

    Good morning Stephen, good to be with you.

    Cenatiempo:

    The factional situation in the Labor Party is a lot more formalised and a lot more disciplined, but you fall outside of that. How do you negotiate that?

    Leigh:

    Well, the ACT has always had a tradition of having non‑factional members, going back to people like Bob McMullan. Alicia Payne and I are outside the factional system, and it just means you need to have more friends, hang out with more people and get to know a broad cross section of the party. Now, I’ve got a lot of respect for many people within the left and the right, but the pre‑selectors that chose me wanted someone who’s non‑aligned, and that’s the way I chose.

    Cenatiempo:

    From the perspective of Cabinet – because there’s reports around this morning suggesting that the left faction have now got more members in the Caucus than they previously had, so that will entitle them to more seats at the Cabinet table, and I understand that system but if you’re non‑factional how do you get to the Cabinet table?

    Leigh:

    Well, it’s a matter of engaging with a range of different colleagues. But you know, I’m really very happy doing what I’m doing working as part of the economics team. I’m pretty proud of the competition reforms last time around that Jim Chalmers was able to get through parliament. Being a part of reform really matters. I would always rather be an assistant minister in government than a shadow cabinet member.

    Cenatiempo:

    That’s right. It’s certainly a lot easier, that’s for sure. So what are your priorities for this next term?

    Leigh:

    We talked a lot about bulk‑billing during the campaign. I think getting those bulk‑billing rates up is going to be very important to Canberra. The next piece of the energy transition, that’ll now continue apace. I think there’s a lot of work to be done around productivity. The Treasurer spoke on Sunday about how in the first term it was inflation first, and then a focus on productivity. Now it’ll be around focusing on productivity, but also keeping an eye on inflation. So that means a lot to do around evidence‑based policy, competition reform. We’ve got the non‑compete reforms going through the parliament hopefully. All of that is aiming to see a more dynamic and competitive economy.

    Cenatiempo:

    I want to talk about the bulk‑billing thing, because the promise of 9 out of 10 GP visits being bulk‑billed, it’s just simply not possible – certainly not the ACT anyway. So how do you manage the expectation, given that that was one of the tent poles of the election campaign?

    Leigh:

    Well, I’m not as pessimistic as you Stephen, but I acknowledge it’s a hard task. One of the things we’re doing is making bulk‑billing stack up for the pure bulk‑billing practices. Our calculations were that previously, a pure bulk‑billing practice would have doctors earning around $260,000. Now with our reforms, doctors in those practices will be able to earn $400,000. So that makes it significantly more financially attractive to be part of a bulk‑billing practice, and it means critically, that you’re not relying in setting up your bulk‑billing practice on the altruism of doctors. In those bulk‑billing practices doctors can now earn what their counterparts earn in other parts of the sector.

    Cenatiempo:

    The difficulty you’ve got here in Canberra though, is the cost of doing business. Because every GP clinic is a small business, and we know that small businesses here in Canberra struggle, and that’s really out of the hands of the federal government.

    Leigh:

    Certainly, some of the ACT government settings make a difference and we need to be looking at those as well. But there’s a lot we’ve done at the federal level. The fact that Katy Gallagher has come from the ACT to the federal level, that she’s got that experience as ACT Health Minister which means that she’s acutely aware of those issues, as of course Dave, Alicia and I are.

    Cenatiempo:

    But communication with the ACT government, and you know, in the lead up to the last ACT election as well, you know, we can deal with a Labor government better than we can with a Coalition government. But the results haven’t gone out that way because of a level of belligerence here locally that the federal government doesn’t seem to be able to break through regardless of what Labor it is.

    Leigh:

    Well look, I wouldn’t use that term Stephen. Certainly, we engage frequently with the ACT government. We recognise they’ve got different pressures and different opportunities. Having that constructive working relationship is important, and certainly the ACT government recognises as much as the federal level, the need to get bulk‑billing rates up in Canberra. They’re well below any other jurisdiction, and that makes it hard for middle income Canberrans to go and see a doctor.

    Cenatiempo:

    Yeah. The elephant in the room. Yourself and Alicia both increased your margins which, you know, I don’t think anybody is surprised by. But David Smith seems to be in the fight for his life for his seat. What’s different about the southern part of Canberra?

    Leigh:

    Well, the southern part of Canberra is the part of Canberra that once elected a Liberal member in Brendan Smyth in 1995. So it has been swingier than the rest of the city. We’ll find out how much money went into the independent campaign down there, but I would have a guess that it was more than David Smith spent.

    Cenatiempo:

    I think that’s a lay down misère, yeah.

    Leigh:

    Yeah, I also wouldn’t take for granted the results up in the north. We do see now, the ACT Liberal Party moving quite out of step from Canberrans. Far be it from me to be giving advice to my opponents, but I think the ACT Liberal party would benefit from coming back to that kind of Kate Carnell or Gary Humphries philosophy. You know, something epitomised by your 2CC predecessor, Mark Parton.

    Cenatiempo:

    Yeah look, I don’t know if that’s necessarily true. My argument has always been in my 5 years here is that local politics shouldn’t be about ideology at all. We focus too much on ideology here in Canberra rather than service delivery which I think is the biggest problem, but that’s not an issue for federal politics although we could probably have a conversation about this over a beer one day. But personally, what do you see as your priorities in Fenner?

    Leigh:

    I’m really keen to continue engaging with the electorate. I think we need to constantly be innovating around democratic engagements, whether that’s telephone town halls, whether it’s looking at more opportunities to do things online. Democratic disengagement is a real risk to the political system and we now have a mandate in order to do a lot of things, but that’s also a mandate in order to engage very deeply with the community. Then in terms of the economic reforms, there’s an awful lot that needs to be done around evidence‑based policy, competition policy, productivity – you know, that’s my sweet spot as a former economics professor. So I’m really looking forward to working on the productivity challenge that Australia faces.

    Cenatiempo:

    Let’s talk about it broader level at the moment. In the Lower House you’ve got an absolute majority, so it’s not going to be a problem getting legislation passed through the House. But in the Senate it appears – I know counting is still going, but it appears you’re not going to have that. Given that the Prime Minister was adamant there would be no deals with the Greens, it looks like you’re going to need Greens support to get things through the Senate. Do you bypass them all together and go to the rest of the crossbench and I guess, hold up that promise so to speak?

    Leigh:

    Well, there will be a number of configurations for any bit of legislation, and you would have seen at the end of last year that there were a whole suite of bills that went through with different configurations. So, for example the merger reforms went through with broad support across the parliament. The campaign finance reform – putting ACT style expenditure caps in place – went through with the support of the Coalition. Other bits of legislation went through with support of the crossbench, so that’ll be case by case. We’ll be making our argument to everyone, and of course every bit of legislation we bring to the parliament will be a bit of legislation we reckon everyone should vote for.

    Cenatiempo:

    Well, yeah it stands to reason you would think. Look, let’s hope that you know. I mean John Howard’s Opposition leading up to the 1996 election – his policy was ‘well look if it’s sensible policy that we can all agree on let’s just pass it through and not be obstructionist’. Let’s hope that the Opposition makes that decision moving forward. Andrew, good to talk to you. We’ll catch up in a couple of weeks’ time.

    Leigh:

    Look forward to it Stephen, thank you.

    Cenatiempo:

    Andrew Leigh, the Assistant Minister for Competition, Charities and Treasury and the re‑elected member for Fenner.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Climate envoy visits Singapore to drive regional climate action

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    World news story

    Climate envoy visits Singapore to drive regional climate action

    The visit by UK Special Representative for Climate, Rachel Kyte, will strengthen UK-Singapore partnership and drive regional climate action and investment.

    The UK’s Special Representative for Climate, Rachel Kyte, is in Singapore on 6-7 May to strengthen UK-Singapore partnership on climate and clean investment and support greater climate ambition across Southeast Asia.

    As part of the two-day visit, Ms Kyte will speak at Ecosperity Week and the GenZero Climate Summit, where she will share lessons from the UK’s decarbonisation journey, engage on opportunities to catalyse investment and technical assistance in green growth across Southeast Asia, and together with partners drive development of carbon markets.

    The visit underscores the UK’s renewed commitment to international climate leadership. While here, Ms Kyte will hold meetings with Climate Ambassador Ravi Menon, as well as representatives from GenZero, Temasek, and Singapore’s Energy Market Authority to deepen collaboration on areas such as energy connectivity and carbon markets under the UK-Singapore Green Economy Framework (UKSGEF).

    Rachel Kyte, the UK’s Special Representative for Climate, said:

    Increasingly vulnerable to climate impacts, Singapore has become one of the most important hubs for financing clean growth and climate action. From carbon markets to clean tech to building resilience Singapore, like London, is leading the way. Deepening collaboration and, together, encouraging others to join with us in our ambitions for greener growth benefits everyone in our two countries and in the wider region.

    I hope that the UK-Singapore partnership can help drive demand for high integrity carbon markets that will support stronger financial flows into nature and support companies to move faster with their transition plans and managing their emissions.

    British High Commissioner to Singapore, Nikesh (Nik) Mehta, said:

    The UK and Singapore share not just a commitment to addressing climate change, but a recognition that environmental protection and economic ambition go hand in hand. Singapore is a vital strategic partner in our climate diplomacy across Southeast Asia.

    Through our UK-Singapore Green Economy Framework, we are pioneering approaches that will spur the green transition across the region, unlocking significant investment and genuine climate benefits.

    I’m confident that we will further cement our collaboration and identify exciting new areas for joint action on sustainable finance, carbon markets, and clean energy – areas where our combined expertise can make a real difference to the region’s green transition.

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-Evening Report: As Warren Buffett prepares to retire, does his investing philosophy have a future?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Angel Zhong, Professor of Finance, RMIT University

    Warren Buffett, the 94-year-old investing legend and chief executive of Berkshire Hathaway, has announced plans to step down at the end of this year.

    His departure will mark the end of an era for value investing, an investment approach built on buying quality companies at reasonable prices and holding them for the long term.

    Buffett’s approach transformed Berkshire Hathaway from a small textile business in the 1960s into a giant conglomerate now worth more than US$1.1 trillion (A$1.7 trillion).

    He built his fortune backing US industry in energy and insurance and American brands, including big stakes in household names such as Coca-Cola, American Express and Apple.

    At Berkshire’s annual meeting at the weekend, held in an arena with thousands of devoted investors, Buffett named Greg Abel as his successor.

    Abel, 62, is currently chairman and chief executive of Berkshire Hathaway Energy, as well as vice chairman of Berkshire Hathaway’s vast non-insurance operations.

    He’s known for his disciplined, no-nonsense management style. The company’s board has now voted unanimously to approve the move.

    This changing of the guard comes at a pivotal moment. Donald Trump’s return to the US presidency has already delivered significant economic policy shifts.

    Meanwhile, questions about US economic dominance grow louder against China’s continued rise.

    The ‘Oracle of Omaha’

    Few names command as much respect in the world of finance as Warren Buffett. Born in Omaha, Nebraska, in 1930, Buffett displayed an early genius for numbers and investing. He bought his first stock at age 11.

    His investment philosophy – buying undervalued companies with strong fundamentals – would later earn him the nickname the “Oracle of Omaha” for his uncanny ability to predict market trends and identify winning investments years before others did.

    Value investing

    Buffett drew his investment approach from the value investment principles of British-born US economist Benjamin Graham.

    He preferred businesses with lasting advantages and a clear value proposition. Some of his key investments included insurance company GEICO, railroad company BNSF, and more recently Chinese electric vehicle maker BYD.

    He avoided speculative bubbles (such as the dotcom bubble of the late 1990s and, more recently, cryptocurrencies) and preached long-term patience to investors. As he famously wrote in a 1988 letter to shareholders:

    In fact, when we own portions of outstanding businesses with outstanding managements, our favorite holding period is forever.

    Buffett’s guidance helped Berkshire navigate many economic booms and recessions. Over his six decades at the helm, the company delivered impressive compounded annual returns of almost 20% – virtually double those of the S&P 500 index.

    Beyond financial success, Buffett championed ethical business practices and pledged to donate more than 99% of his wealth through the Giving Pledge, which he cofounded with Bill Gates and Melinda French Gates.



    Read more:
    How Warren Buffett’s enormous charitable gifts reflect the ‘inner scorecard’ that has guided him up to the billionaire’s planned retirement

    Challenges to Buffett’s strategy in today’s world

    In an op-ed for the New York Times in 2008, Buffett famously shared the maxim that guides his investment decisions:

    Be fearful when others are greedy, and be greedy when others are fearful.

    But his strategy thrived in an era of increasing globalisation, free trade, and US economic supremacy. The world has shifted since Buffett’s heyday.

    There are concerns about the recent underperformance of value investing. Technology companies now dominate older industries.

    This raises questions about whether those who succeed Buffett can spot the next major industry disruptors.

    America first?

    Trump’s return as US president heralds major changes in economic policy. Trade restrictions might hurt some of Berkshire’s international investments. However, these same policies might benefit Buffett’s US-focused investments.

    The idea of US economic superiority also faces new questions. China may overtake the US economy in the 2030s. The US share of global economic output has fallen from about 22% in 1980 to about 15% today.

    Buffett’s “never bet against America” mantra faces new scrutiny.

    Warren Buffett discusses trade deficits and protectionism on May 3.

    The challenges for Buffett’s successor

    Abel inherits a company with about US$348 billion (A$539 billion) in cash. That’s a serious amount of capital to deploy wisely amid global economic uncertainty and Trump’s trade war.

    Abel will likely maintain Berkshire’s core values while updating its approach. His challenges include:

    1. Maintaining the “Buffett premium”: Abel lacks Buffett’s cult-like following among investors, which may gradually erode the additional value the market assigns to Berkshire due to Buffett’s leadership.

      Without Buffett’s reputation, Abel may face increased pressure to effectively deploy Berkshire’s massive cash pile in a still-expensive stock market, where valuations are high and finding bargains is harder than ever.

    2. Technological adaptation: while Berkshire has increased its technology investments over the years (including positions in Apple and Amazon), balancing its legacy holdings (such as Coca-Cola and railroads) with growth sectors (AI, renewables) remains challenging.

    3. Environmental concerns: Berkshire Hathaway’s heavy reliance on coal and gas-fired utilities has drawn growing criticism as investors and regulators demand cleaner energy solutions.

    4. Replicating the “golden touch”: Buffett’s genius wasn’t just in picking stocks. It was also in capital allocation, deal-making, and crisis management (for example, buying into Goldman Sachs during the global financial crisis). Can Abel replicate that?

    After Buffett

    Buffett’s principles – patience, intrinsic value and betting on America – are timeless. But the world has moved on. His successor must navigate geopolitical risks, technological disruption, and the rise of passive investing while preserving Berkshire’s unique culture.

    The post-Buffett era represents more than just a leadership change. It’s a test of whether Buffett’s principles can survive in an increasingly short-term, technology-dominated, and geopolitically complex world.

    Abel’s leadership will reveal the enduring power – or limitations – of Buffett’s philosophy.

    Angel Zhong 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 Warren Buffett prepares to retire, does his investing philosophy have a future? – https://theconversation.com/as-warren-buffett-prepares-to-retire-does-his-investing-philosophy-have-a-future-255867

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI: International Petroleum Corporation Announces First Quarter 2025 Financial and Operational Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — William Lundin, IPC’s President and Chief Executive Officer, comments: “We are pleased to announce another strong quarter of operational and financial performance for Q1 2025. IPC achieved an average net daily production during the quarter of 44,400 barrels of oil equivalent per day (boepd). Our results during the quarter were in line with the 2025 guidance announced at our Capital Markets Day in February as we continue to execute according to plan across our operations in Canada, Malaysia and France. Notably, the transformational Blackrod Phase 1 development project in Canada has progressed substantially during the quarter and forecast first oil is maintained with the original project sanction guidance for late 2026. We also continued with purchases of IPC common shares under the normal course issuer bid, having completed approximately 60% of the current 2024/2025 program between December 2024 to March 2025.”

    Q1 2025 Business Highlights

    • Average net production of approximately 44,400 boepd for the first quarter of 2025, within the guidance range for the period (52% heavy crude oil, 15% light and medium crude oil and 33% natural gas).(1)
    • Continued progressing Phase 1 development activity as well as future phase resource maturation works at the Blackrod asset.
    • At Onion Lake Thermal, all four planned production infill wells and the final Pad L well pair have been successfully drilled.
    • 3.9 million IPC common shares purchased and cancelled during Q1 2025 and continuing with target to complete the full 2024/2025 NCIB this year.

    Q1 2025 Financial Highlights

    • Operating costs per boe of USD 17.3 for Q1 2025, in line with guidance.(3)
    • Operating cash flow (OCF) generation of MUSD 75 for Q1 2025, in line with guidance.(3)
    • Capital and decommissioning expenditures of MUSD 99 for Q1 2025, in line with guidance.
    • Free cash flow (FCF) generation for Q1 2025 amounted to MUSD -43 (MUSD 37 pre-Blackrod capital expenditure).(3)
    • Gross cash of MUSD 140 and net debt of MUSD 314 as at March 31, 2025.(3)
    • Net result of MUSD 16 for Q1 2025.

    Reserves and Resources

    • Total 2P reserves as at December 31, 2024 of 493 MMboe, with a reserve life index (RLI) of 31 years.(1)(2)
    • Contingent resources (best estimate, unrisked) as at December 31, 2024 of 1,107 MMboe.(1)(2)
    • 2P reserves net asset value (NAV) as at December 31, 2024 of MUSD 3,083 (10% discount rate).(1)(2)

    2025 Annual Guidance

    • Full year 2025 average net production guidance range forecast maintained at 43,000 to 45,000 boepd.(1)
    • Full year 2025 operating costs guidance range forecast maintained at USD 18 to 19 per boe.(3)
    • Full year 2025 OCF revised guidance estimated at between MUSD 240 and 270 (assuming Brent USD 60 to 75 per barrel for the remainder of 2025) from previous guidance of between MUSD 210 and 280 (assuming Brent USD 65 to 85 per barrel).(3)(4)
    • Full year 2025 capital and decommissioning expenditures guidance forecast maintained at MUSD 320.
    • Full year 2025 FCF revised guidance estimated at between MUSD -135 and -110 (assuming Brent USD 60 to 75 per barrel for the remainder of 2025) from previous guidance of between MUSD -150 and -80 (assuming Brent USD 65 to 85 per barrel), after taking into account MUSD 230 of forecast full year 2025 capital expenditures relating to the Blackrod asset.(3)(4)
      Three months ended March 31
    USD Thousands 2025 2024
    Revenue 178,492   206,419  
    Gross profit 44,149   55,184  
    Net result 16,231   33,719  
    Operating cash flow(3) 74,790   89,301  
    Free cash flow(3) (43,172)   (43,311)  
    EBITDA(3) 70,946   87,020  
    Net cash/(debt)(3) (314,255)   (60,572)  
             

    During the first quarter of 2025, oil prices were relatively stable, with Brent prices averaging just below USD 76 per barrel. Following the quarter, commodity prices pulled back with spot Brent rates falling to USD 60 per barrel in April 2025. The physical crude market remained tight throughout the first quarter, prompting OPEC and the OPEC+ group to increase supply ahead of expectations. The timing of the supply increases coincided with the United States proposing harsh tariffs to countries deemed in a trade surplus of US goods. These two events have impacted future crude supply and demand outlooks, in turn weighing on spot and future oil benchmark prices. Despite the poor market sentiment, global inventories remain below the 5-year average, high geopolitical tensions persist, non-OPEC 2025 oil production (namely, in the US) is unlikely to grow at current prices, and US Federal Reserve Bank rate cuts are likely to occur in the near future. IPC prudently supplemented downside protection measures at the beginning of the first quarter of 2025 through financial swap hedging arrangements which in total represent nearly 40% of our forecast 2025 oil production at around USD 76 and USD 71 per barrel for Dated Brent and West Texas Intermediate (WTI), respectively, for the remainder of 2025.

    In Canada, WTI to Western Canadian Select (WCS) crude price differentials during the first quarter of 2025 averaged just under USD 13 per barrel, with spot differentials decreasing to around USD 9 per barrel in April 2025. The Western Canadian Sedimentary Basin (WCSB) petroleum producers have greatly benefited from the TMX pipeline expansion with differentials tightening to levels not seen since 2020. There are currently no tariffs on Canadian crude exports to the United States, which remain covered by the US Mexico Canada free trade agreement. IPC has hedged the WTI/WCS differential for approximately 50% of our forecast 2025 Canadian oil production at USD 14 per barrel for 2025.

    Natural gas markets in Canada for the first quarter of 2025 remained weak, given the softer than average winter weather conditions and high natural gas storage levels. The average AECO gas price was CAD 2.1 per Mcf for the first quarter of 2025. The forward strip implies improved pricing for Canadian gas benchmark prices, driven by the pending startup of the West Coast LNG Canada project later this year. Approximately 50% of our net long exposure is hedged at CAD 2.4 per Mcf to end October 2025, dropping to around 15% for November and December at CAD 2.6 per mcf.

    First Quarter 2025 Highlights and Full Year 2025 Guidance

    During the first quarter of 2025, our portfolio delivered average net production of 44,400 boepd, in line with guidance. Operational performance from our producing assets was strong to start the year as high facility and well uptimes were achieved. Drilling activity commenced in the first quarter of 2025 at Onion Lake Thermal, which aims to sustain production levels at the asset for 2025. In Malaysia, drilling and well maintenance works are planned to start in the second quarter of 2025, in line with plan. We maintain the full year 2025 average net production guidance range of 43,000 to 45,000 boepd.(1)

    Our operating costs per boe for the first quarter of 2025 was USD 17.3, in line with guidance. Full year 2025 operating expenditure guidance of USD 18.0 to 19.0 per boe remains unchanged.(3)

    Operating cash flow (OCF) generation for the first quarter of 2025 was MUSD 75. Full year 2025 OCF guidance is tightened to MUSD 240 to 270 (assuming Brent USD 60 to 75 per barrel for the remainder of 2025).(3)(4)

    Capital and decommissioning expenditure for the first quarter of 2025 was MUSD 99 in line with guidance. Full year 2025 capital and decommissioning expenditure of MUSD 320 is maintained.

    Free cash flow (FCF) generation was MUSD -43 (MUSD 37 pre-Blackrod capital expenditure) during the first quarter of 2025. Full year 2025 FCF guidance is tightened to MUSD -135 to -110 (assuming Brent USD 60 to 75 per barrel for the remainder of 2025) after taking into account MUSD 320 of forecast full year 2025 capital expenditures (including MUSD 230 relating to the Blackrod asset).(3)(4)

    As at March 31, 2025, IPC’s net debt position was MUSD 314, from a net debt position of MUSD 209 as at December 31, 2024, mainly driven by the funding of forecast capital expenditures and the continuing share repurchase program (NCIB). Gross cash on the balance sheet as at March 31, 2025 amounts to MUSD 140 and IPC has access to an undrawn Canadian credit facility of greater than 130 MUSD. The access to liquidity supports IPC to follow through on its key strategic objectives of enhancing stakeholder value through organic growth, stakeholder returns, and pursuing value adding M&A.(3)

    Blackrod

    During the first quarter of 2025, IPC continued to advance the Phase 1 development of the Blackrod asset. Growth capital expenditure to first oil is maintained at MUSD 850. First oil of the Phase 1 development is estimated to be in late 2026, with forecast net production of 30,000 boepd by 2028. IPC forecasts capital expenditure in 2025 at the Blackrod asset of MUSD 230, of which MUSD 77 was invested in the Phase 1 development project during Q1 2025. Since the transformational organic growth project was sanctioned in early 2023, MUSD 669, or approximately 80% of the total multi-year project capital budget, has been incurred.(1)

    Project activities for the multi-year Blackrod Phase 1 development have progressed according to plan. Engineering, procurement and fabrication is substantially complete with greater than 90% of all facility modules delivered to site. Equipment installation, piping inter-connects, electrical and instrumentation are the key areas of focus for construction at the Central Processing Facility (CPF) and well pad facilities.

    Resource maturation drilling for future phase expansion considerations took place during Q1 2025. Commercial operational readiness planning has ramped up in line with our progressive turnover strategy to ensure a seamless transition from build to start-up. IPC intends to fund the remaining Blackrod capital expenditure with forecast cash flow generated by its operations, cash on hand and drawing under the existing Canadian credit facility if needed.(3)

    Stakeholder Returns: Normal Course Issuer Bid

    In Q4 2024, IPC announced the renewal of the NCIB, with the ability to repurchase up to approximately 7.5 million common shares over the period of December 5, 2024 to December 4, 2025. Under the 2024/2025 NCIB, IPC repurchased and cancelled approximately 0.8 million common shares in December 2024, 3.7 million common shares during Q1 2025, and a further 0.2 million common shares purchased under other exemptions in Canada. The average price of common shares purchased under the 2024/2025 NCIB during Q1 2025 was SEK 146 / CAD 20 per share.

    As at March 31, 2025, IPC had a total of 115,176,514 common shares issued and outstanding and IPC held no common shares in treasury. As at April 30, 2025, IPC had a total of 114,248,119 common shares issued and outstanding and IPC held no common shares in treasury.

    Notwithstanding the final major capital investment year at Blackrod in 2025, IPC had purchased and cancelled 73% of the maximum 7.5 million common shares allowed under the 2024/2025 NCIB by the end of April 2025 and intends to purchase and cancel the remaining 2.0 million common shares under that program in 2025. This would result in the cancellation of 6.2% of common shares outstanding as at the beginning of December 2024. IPC continues to believe that reducing the number of shares outstanding in combination with investing in long-life production growth at the Blackrod project will prove to be a winning formula for our stakeholders.

    Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Performance

    During the first quarter of 2025, IPC recorded no material safety or environmental incidents.

    As previously announced, IPC targets a reduction of our net GHG emissions intensity by the end of 2025 to 50% of IPC’s 2019 baseline and IPC remains on track to achieve this reduction. IPC has also made a commitment to maintain 2025 levels of 20 kg CO2/boe through to the end of 2028.(5)

    Notes:

      (1) See “Supplemental Information regarding Product Types” in “Reserves and Resources Advisory” below. See also the annual information form for the year ended December 31, 2024 (AIF) available on IPC’s website at www.international-petroleum.com and under IPC’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.
      (2) See “Reserves and Resources Advisory“ below. Further information with respect to IPC’s reserves, contingent resources and estimates of future net revenue, including assumptions relating to the calculation of net present value (NPV), are described in the AIF. NAV is calculated as NPV less net debt of USD 209 million as at December 31, 2024.
      (3) Non-IFRS measures, see “Non-IFRS Measures” below and in the MD&A.
      (4) OCF and FCF forecasts at Brent USD 60 and 70 per barrel assume Brent to WTI differential of USD 3 and 5 per barrel, respectively, and WTI to WCS differential of USD 10 and 15 per barrel, respectively, for the remainder of 2025. OCF and FCF forecasts assume gas price on average of CAD 2.25 per Mcf for the remainder of 2025.
      (5) Emissions intensity is the ratio between oil and gas production and the associated carbon emissions, and net emissions intensity reflects gross emissions less operational emission reductions and carbon offsets.
         

    International Petroleum Corp. (IPC) is an international oil and gas exploration and production company with a high quality portfolio of assets located in Canada, Malaysia and France, providing a solid foundation for organic and inorganic growth. IPC is a member of the Lundin Group of Companies. IPC is incorporated in Canada and IPC’s shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) and the Nasdaq Stockholm exchange under the symbol “IPCO”.

    For further information, please contact:

    Rebecca Gordon
    SVP Corporate Planning and Investor Relations
    rebecca.gordon@international-petroleum.com
    Tel: +41 22 595 10 50    		 Or Robert Eriksson
    Media Manager
    reriksson@rive6.ch
    Tel: +46 701 11 26 15
         

    This information is information that International Petroleum Corporation is required to make public pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation and the Securities Markets Act. The information was submitted for publication, through the contact persons set out above, at 07:30 CEST on May 6, 2025. The Corporation’s unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements (Financial Statements) and management’s discussion and analysis (MD&A) for the three months ended March 31, 2025 have been filed on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca) and are also available on the Corporation’s website (www.international-petroleum.com).

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release contains statements and information which constitute “forward-looking statements” or “forward-looking information” (within the meaning of applicable securities legislation). Such statements and information (together, “forward-looking statements”) relate to future events, including the Corporation’s future performance, business prospects or opportunities. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release, unless otherwise indicated. IPC does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements, except as required by applicable laws.

    All statements other than statements of historical fact may be forward-looking statements. Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, forecasts, guidance, budgets, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, using words or phrases such as “seek”, “anticipate”, “plan”, “continue”, “estimate”, “expect”, “may”, “will”, “project”, “forecast”, “predict”, “potential”, “targeting”, “intend”, “could”, “might”, “should”, “believe”, “budget” and similar expressions) are not statements of historical fact and may be “forward-looking statements”.

    Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to:

    • 2025 production ranges (including total daily average production), production composition, cash flows, operating costs and capital and decommissioning expenditure estimates;
    • Estimates of future production, cash flows, operating costs and capital expenditures that are based on IPC’s current business plans and assumptions regarding the business environment, which are subject to change;
    • IPC’s financial and operational flexibility to navigate the Corporation through periods of volatile commodity prices;
    • The ability to fully fund future expenditures from cash flows and current borrowing capacity;
    • IPC’s intention and ability to continue to implement its strategies to build long-term shareholder value;
    • The ability of IPC’s portfolio of assets to provide a solid foundation for organic and inorganic growth;
    • The continued facility uptime and reservoir performance in IPC’s areas of operation;
    • Development of the Blackrod project in Canada, including estimates of resource volumes, future production, timing, regulatory approvals, third party commercial arrangements, breakeven oil prices and net present values;
    • Current and future production performance, operations and development potential of the Onion Lake Thermal, Suffield, Brooks, Ferguson and Mooney operations, including the timing and success of future oil and gas drilling and optimization programs;
    • The potential improvement in the Canadian oil egress situation and IPC’s ability to benefit from any such improvements;
    • The ability to maintain current and forecast production in France and Malaysia;
    • The intention and ability of IPC to acquire further Common Shares under the NCIB, including the timing of any such purchases;
    • The return of value to IPC’s shareholders as a result of the NCIB;
    • IPC’s ability to implement its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions intensity and climate strategies and to achieve its net GHG emissions intensity reduction targets;
    • IPC’s ability to implement projects to reduce net emissions intensity, including potential carbon capture and storage;
    • Estimates of reserves and contingent resources;
    • The ability to generate free cash flows and use that cash to repay debt;
    • IPC’s continued access to its existing credit facilities, including current financial headroom, on terms acceptable to the Corporation;
    • IPC’s ability to identify and complete future acquisitions;
    • Expectations regarding the oil and gas industry in Canada, Malaysia and France, including assumptions regarding future royalty rates, regulatory approvals, legislative changes, tariffs, and ongoing projects and their expected completion; and
    • Future drilling and other exploration and development activities.

    Statements relating to “reserves” and “contingent resources” are also deemed to be forward-looking statements, as they involve the implied assessment, based on certain estimates and assumptions, that the reserves and resources described exist in the quantities predicted or estimated and that the reserves and resources can be profitably produced in the future. Ultimate recovery of reserves or resources is based on forecasts of future results, estimates of amounts not yet determinable and assumptions of management.

    The forward-looking statements are based on certain key expectations and assumptions made by IPC, including expectations and assumptions concerning: the potential impact of tariffs implemented in 2025 by the U.S. and Canadian governments and that other than the tariffs that have been implemented, neither the U.S. nor Canada (i) increases the rate or scope of such tariffs, or imposes new tariffs, on the import of goods from one country to the other, including on oil and natural gas, and/or (ii) imposes any other form of tax, restriction or prohibition on the import or export of products from one country to the other, including on oil and natural gas; prevailing commodity prices and currency exchange rates; applicable royalty rates and tax laws; interest rates; future well production rates and reserve and contingent resource volumes; operating costs; our ability to maintain our existing credit ratings; our ability to achieve our performance targets; the timing of receipt of regulatory approvals; the performance of existing wells; the success obtained in drilling new wells; anticipated timing and results of capital expenditures; the sufficiency of budgeted capital expenditures in carrying out planned activities; the timing, location and extent of future drilling operations; the successful completion of acquisitions and dispositions and that we will be able to implement our standards, controls, procedures and policies in respect of any acquisitions and realize the expected synergies on the anticipated timeline or at all; the benefits of acquisitions; the state of the economy and the exploration and production business in the jurisdictions in which IPC operates and globally; the availability and cost of financing, labour and services; our intention to complete share repurchases under our normal course issuer bid program, including the funding of such share repurchases, existing and future market conditions, including with respect to the price of our common shares, and compliance with respect to applicable limitations under securities laws and regulations and stock exchange policies; and the ability to market crude oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids successfully.

    Although IPC believes that the expectations and assumptions on which such forward-looking statements are based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking statements because IPC can give no assurances that they will prove to be correct. Since forward-looking statements address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially from those currently anticipated due to a number of factors and risks.

    These include, but are not limited to: general global economic, market and business conditions; the risks associated with the oil and gas industry in general such as operational risks in development, exploration and production; delays or changes in plans with respect to exploration or development projects or capital expenditures; the uncertainty of estimates and projections relating to reserves, resources, production, revenues, costs and expenses; health, safety and environmental risks; commodity price fluctuations; interest rate and exchange rate fluctuations; marketing and transportation; loss of markets; environmental and climate-related risks; competition; innovation and cybersecurity risks related to our systems, including our costs of addressing or mitigating such risks; the ability to attract, engage and retain skilled employees; incorrect assessment of the value of acquisitions; failure to complete or realize the anticipated benefits of acquisitions or dispositions; the ability to access sufficient capital from internal and external sources; failure to obtain required regulatory and other approvals; geopolitical conflicts, including the war between Ukraine and Russia and the conflict in the Middle East, and their potential impact on, among other things, global market conditions; political or economic developments, including, without limitation, the risk that (i) one or both of the U.S. and Canadian governments increases the rate or scope of tariffs implemented in 2025, or imposes new tariffs on the import of goods from one country to the other, including on oil and natural gas, (ii) the U.S. and/or Canada imposes any other form of tax, restriction or prohibition on the import or export of products from one country to the other, including on oil and natural gas, and (iii) the tariffs imposed by the U.S. on other countries and responses thereto could have a material adverse effect on the Canadian, U.S. and global economies, and by extension the Canadian oil and natural gas industry and the Corporation; and changes in legislation, including but not limited to tax laws, royalties, environmental and abandonment regulations. Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive.

    Additional information on these and other factors that could affect IPC, or its operations or financial results, are included in the MD&A (See “Risk Factors”, “Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information” and “Reserves and Resources Advisory”), the Corporation’s Annual Information Form (AIF) for the year ended December 31, 2024, (See “Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information”, “Reserves and Resources Advisory” and “Risk Factors”) and other reports on file with applicable securities regulatory authorities, including previous financial reports, management’s discussion and analysis and material change reports, which may be accessed through the SEDAR+ website (www.sedarplus.ca) or IPC’s website (www.international-petroleum.com).

    Management of IPC approved the production, operating costs, operating cash flow, capital and decommissioning expenditures and free cash flow guidance and estimates contained herein as of the date of this press release. The purpose of these guidance and estimates is to assist readers in understanding IPC’s expected and targeted financial results, and this information may not be appropriate for other purposes.

    Estimated production and FCF generation are based on IPC’s current business plans over the periods of 2025 to 2029 and 2030 to 2034, less net debt of USD 209 million as at December 31, 2024, with assumptions based on the reports of IPC’s independent reserves evaluators, and including certain corporate adjustments relating to estimated general and administration costs and hedging, and excluding shareholder distributions and financing costs. Assumptions include average net production of approximately 57 Mboepd over the period of 2025 to 2029, average net production of approximately 63 Mboepd over the period of 2030 to 2034, average Brent oil prices of USD 75 to 95 per bbl escalating by 2% per year, and average Brent to Western Canadian Select differentials and average gas prices as estimated by IPC’s independent reserves evaluator and as further described in the AIF. IPC’s current business plans and assumptions, and the business environment, are subject to change. Actual results may differ materially from forward-looking estimates and forecasts.

    Non-IFRS Measures
    References are made in this press release to “operating cash flow” (OCF), “free cash flow” (FCF), “Earnings Before Interest, Tax, Depreciation and Amortization” (EBITDA), “operating costs” and “net debt”/”net cash”, which are not generally accepted accounting measures under International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and do not have any standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and, therefore, may not be comparable with similar measures presented by other public companies. Non-IFRS measures should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures prepared in accordance with IFRS.

    The definition of each non-IFRS measure is presented in IPC’s MD&A (See “Non-IFRS Measures” therein).

    Operating cash flow
    The following table sets out how operating cash flow is calculated from figures shown in the Financial Statements:

      Three months ended March 31
    USD Thousands 2025   2024  
    Revenue 178,492   206,419  
    Production costs and net sales of diluent to third party 1 (103,188)   (115,745)  
    Current tax (514)   (1,373)  
    Operating cash flow 74,790   89,301  

    1Includes net sales of diluent to third party amounting to USD 191 thousand for the first quarter of 2025.

    Free cash flow
    The following table sets out how free cash flow is calculated from figures shown in the Financial Statements:

      Three months ended March 31
    USD Thousands 2025   2024  
    Operating cash flow – see above 74,790   89,301  
    Capital expenditures (98,886)   (125,256)  
    Abandonment and farm-in expenditures1 (321)   (122)  
    General, administration and depreciation expenses before depreciation2 (4,358)   (3,653)  
    Cash financial items3 (14,397)   (3,581)  
    Free cash flow (43,172)   (43,311)  

    1 See note 16 to the Financial Statements
    2 Depreciation is not specifically disclosed in the Financial Statements
    3 See notes 4 and 5 to the Financial Statements

    EBITDA
    The following table sets out the reconciliation from net result from the consolidated statement of operations to EBITDA:

      Three months ended March 31
    USD Thousands 2025   2024  
    Net result 16,231   33,719  
    Net financial items 18,855   9,770  
    Income tax 4,679   7,746  
    Depletion and decommissioning costs 29,016   33,153  
    Depreciation of other tangible fixed assets 1,917   2,262  
    Exploration and business development costs 31   75  
    Sale of assets 1 (94)   –  
    Depreciation included in general, administration and depreciation expenses 2 311   295  
    EBITDA 70,946   87,020  

    1 Sale of assets is included under “Other income/(expense)” but not specifically disclosed in the Financial Statements
    2 Item is not shown in the Financial Statements

    Operating costs
    The following table sets out how operating costs is calculated:

      Three months ended March 31
    USD Thousands 2025   2024  
    Production costs 103,379   115,745  
    Cost of blending (37,726)   (45,206)  
    Change in inventory position 3,500   5,277  
    Operating costs 69,153   75,816  
             

    Net cash/(debt)
    The following table sets out how net cash / (debt) is calculated from figures shown in the Financial Statements:

    USD Thousands March 31, 2025   December 31, 2024
    Bank loans (4,449)   (5,121)  
    Bonds1 (450,000)   (450,000)  
    Cash and cash equivalents 140,194   246,593  
    Net cash/(debt) (314,255)   (208,528)  

    1 The bond amount represents the redeemable value at maturity (February 2027).

    Reserves and Resources Advisory
    This press release contains references to estimates of gross and net reserves and resources attributed to the Corporation’s oil and gas assets. For additional information with respect to such reserves and resources, refer to “Reserves and Resources Advisory” in the MD&A. Light, medium and heavy crude oil reserves/resources disclosed in this press release include solution gas and other by-products. Also see “Supplemental Information regarding Product Types” below.

    Reserve estimates, contingent resource estimates and estimates of future net revenue in respect of IPC’s oil and gas assets in Canada are effective as of December 31, 2024, and are included in the reports prepared by Sproule Associates Limited (Sproule), an independent qualified reserves evaluator, in accordance with National Instrument 51-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Oil and Gas Activities (NI 51-101) and the Canadian Oil and Gas Evaluation Handbook (the COGE Handbook) and using Sproule’s December 31, 2024 price forecasts.

    Reserve estimates, contingent resource estimates and estimates of future net revenue in respect of IPC’s oil and gas assets in France and Malaysia are effective as of December 31, 2024, and are included in the report prepared by ERC Equipoise Ltd. (ERCE), an independent qualified reserves auditor, in accordance with NI 51-101 and the COGE Handbook, and using Sproule’s December 31, 2024 price forecasts.

    The price forecasts used in the Sproule and ERCE reports are available on the website of Sproule (sproule.com) and are contained in the AIF. These price forecasts are as at December 31, 2024 and may not be reflective of current and future forecast commodity prices.

    The reserve life index (RLI) is calculated by dividing the 2P reserves of 493 MMboe as at December 31, 2024 by the mid-point of the 2025 CMD production guidance of 43,000 to 45,000 boepd.

    IPC uses the industry-accepted standard conversion of six thousand cubic feet of natural gas to one barrel of oil (6 Mcf = 1 bbl). A BOE conversion ratio of 6:1 is based on an energy equivalency conversion method primarily applicable at the burner tip and does not represent a value equivalency at the wellhead. As the value ratio between natural gas and crude oil based on the current prices of natural gas and crude oil is significantly different from the energy equivalency of 6:1, utilizing a 6:1 conversion basis may be misleading as an indication of value.

    Supplemental Information regarding Product Types

    The following table is intended to provide supplemental information about the product type composition of IPC’s net average daily production figures provided in this press release:

             
      Heavy Crude Oil
    (Mbopd)    		 Light and Medium Crude
    Oil (Mbopd)    		 Conventional Natural Gas
    (per day)    		 Total
    (Mboepd)
    Three months ended        
    March 31, 2025 23.2 6.5 88.2 MMcf
    (14.7 Mboe)    		 44.4
    March 31, 2024 24.9 7.9 96.0 MMcf
    (16.0 Mboe)    		 48.8
    Year ended        
    December 31, 2024 23.9 7.7 95.1 MMcf
    (15.8 Mboe)    		 47.4
             

    This press release also makes reference to IPC’s forecast total average daily production of 43,000 to 45,000 boepd for 2025. IPC estimates that approximately 52% of that production will be comprised of heavy oil, approximately 15% will be comprised of light and medium crude oil and approximately 33% will be comprised of conventional natural gas.

    Currency
    All dollar amounts in this press release are expressed in United States dollars, except where otherwise noted. References herein to USD mean United States dollars and to MUSD mean millions of United States dollars. References herein to CAD mean Canadian dollars.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Report for the three months ended 31 March 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Highlights

    • Power generation amounted to 251 GWh for the first quarter 2025, being at the lower end of the outlook range, mainly as a result of weather impact and production curtailments related to the provision of ancillary services, for which the Company receives compensation.
    • Reached the ready-to-permit milestone and launched a sales process for a 98 MW solar project in Germany.
    • Reached the ready-to-permit milestone on a second solar and battery project in the UK, bringing the total volume of ready-to-permit projects to 2.5 GW, with the sales process awaiting the conclusion of the ongoing grid connections reform.

    Consolidated financials

    • Cash flows from operating activities amounted to MEUR 0.6.

    Proportionate financials

    • Achieved electricity price amounted to EUR 40 per MWh, which resulted in a proportionate EBITDA of MEUR 0.4.
    • Proportionate net debt of MEUR 68.6, with significant liquidity headroom available through the MEUR 170 revolving credit facility.

    Financial Summary

    Orrön Energy owns renewables assets directly and through joint ventures and associated companies and is presenting proportionate financials in addition to the consolidated financial reporting under IFRS to show the net ownership and related results of these assets. The purpose of the proportionate reporting is to give an enhanced insight into the Company’s operational and financial results.

    Financial performance   Q1
    MEUR   2025 2024
    Revenue   9.3 12.3
    EBITDA   – 0.9 3.1
    Operating profit (EBIT)   – 5.2 – 1.0
    Net result   – 4.0 – 2.6
    Earnings per share – EUR   – 0.01 – 0.01
    Earnings per share diluted – EUR   – 0.01 – 0.01
    Alternative performance measures      
    Proportionate financials1      
    Power generation (GWh)   251 274
    Average price achieved per MWh – EUR   40 49
    Operating expenses per MWh – EUR   20 15
    Revenue   10.1 13.5
    EBITDA   0.4 5.1
    Operating profit (EBIT)   – 4.9 –
    1 Proportionate financials represent Orrön Energy’s proportionate ownership (net) of assets and related financial results, including joint ventures.
    For more details see section Key Financial Data in the Q1 Report 2025.

    Comment from Daniel Fitzgerald, CEO of Orrön Energy
    “Our greenfield platform is now well established after two years of investment, recruitment and project delivery. We have launched our first sales process in Germany for a 98 MW agri-PV project, and have around 2.5 GW of solar and battery projects in the UK at the ready-to-permit stage awaiting a final resolution from the ongoing grid connections reform. Over the course of 2025 and 2026, we expect to start monetising the first of these projects and I look forward to seeing the results of the hard work and dedication of the teams creating these opportunities. Our UK projects are amongst some of the largest solar projects in the country to date, and will make a significant contribution to the UK government’s ambition to reach net zero through renewable investment and decarbonisation of the power systems. The UK grid connections reform is still underway, and we expect to receive feedback during the fall of 2025, after which we expect to resume our sales process. It is unfortunate that the reform was launched mid-way through our sales process, and although we will see a delay, the value and interest from investors remains strong, as does the UK government’s support for projects such as ours. We expect to share more details on the outcome of the ongoing reform and our progress later this year.

    Our proportionate power generation in the first quarter amounted to 251 GWh, which was at the lower end of our outlook range, primarily due to weather conditions and curtailments linked to the ancillary services provided at our MLK windfarm. We are actively working to qualify additional sites for ancillary services, where we receive compensation when activated. This, alongside voluntary curtailments during periods of low electricity pricing, forms part of a broader set of measures we introduced last year to optimise our revenues and mitigate the ongoing volatility in power markets. Nordic electricity markets remain challenging with low prices and high volatility, and we are seeing that impact not only in our business, but across the sector with very few new renewable energy projects sanctioned.

    Financially resilient
    We remain in a strong financial position, with MEUR 100 of liquidity headroom, and have the ability to manage the pace of our investments as markets evolve. Proportionate revenues and other income for the quarter amounted to MEUR 10.2, and proportionate EBITDA was MEUR 0.4, reflecting the impact of electricity prices during the quarter. Project sales from our greenfield portfolio are expected to commence during the course of this year which should lead to a positive impact on our financial results and EBITDA. Our cost base will further reduce following the conclusion of the Sudan trial in the second quarter of 2026, strengthening our financial position going forward. Electricity prices are set to remain volatile, and future revenues from power sales will remain subject to the underlying Nordic electricity prices, which have been at sustained low levels for the last quarters. I expect to see this improve in the medium term given the lack of new power generation being built, especially in Sweden.

    Looking ahead
    The Company is continuing to deliver in line with our strategy to build a portfolio of producing assets and a pipeline of large-scale greenfield projects. We are making good progress on all fronts with optimisation and consolidation in our producing asset base and continued maturation in our project pipeline. We are supported by a highly skilled and committed team in the Nordics, and a dynamic development team driving our greenfield growth in the UK, Germany and France.

    The long-term outlook for renewable energy remains robust, underpinned by strong policy support, increasing electrification, and growing demand for low-carbon solutions across Europe. As we are investing in onshore technologies with the lowest breakeven price, I am confident that our portfolio is well positioned to deliver long-term value in this space and provide a much-needed new supply of low-cost energy to society. European electricity prices, especially in Germany and the UK, remain at elevated levels, well above the breakeven cost for new renewable projects to be sanctioned, which stands our greenfield portfolio in good shape for delivering long-term returns.

    I would like to once again thank our shareholders for your continued support, and look forward to further updates during 2025.”

    Webcast
    Listen to Daniel Fitzgerald, CEO and Espen Hennie, CFO commenting on the report and presenting the latest developments in Orrön Energy and its future growth strategy at a webcast today at 14.00 CEST. The presentation will be followed by a question-and-answer session.

    Follow the presentation live on the below webcast link:
    https://orron-energy.events.inderes.com/q1-report-2025

    For further information, please contact:

    Robert Eriksson
    Corporate Affairs and Investor Relations
    Tel: +46 701 11 26 15
    robert.eriksson@orron.com

    Jenny Sandström
    Communications Lead
    Tel: +41 79 431 63 68
    jenny.sandstrom@orron.com

    Orrön Energy is an independent, publicly listed (Nasdaq Stockholm: “ORRON”) renewable energy company within the Lundin Group of Companies. Orrön Energy’s core portfolio consists of high quality, cash flow generating assets in the Nordics, coupled with greenfield growth opportunities in the Nordics, the UK, Germany, and France. With financial capacity to fund further growth and acquisitions, and backed by a major shareholder, management and Board with a proven track record of investing into, leading and growing highly successful businesses, Orrön Energy is in a unique position to create shareholder value through the energy transition.

    Forward-looking statements
    Statements in this press release relating to any future status or circumstances, including statements regarding future performance, growth and other trend projections, are forward-looking statements. These statements may generally, but not always, be identified by the use of words such as “anticipate”, “believe”, “expect”, “intend”, “plan”, “seek”, “will”, “would” or similar expressions. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve risk and uncertainty because they relate to events and depend on circumstances that could occur in the future. There can be no assurance that actual results will not differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements due to several factors, many of which are outside the company’s control. Any forward-looking statements in this press release speak only as of the date on which the statements are made and the company has no obligation (and undertakes no obligation) to update or revise any of them, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Why Zelensky – not Trump – may have ‘won’ the US-Ukraine minerals deal

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Eve Warburton, Research Fellow, Department of Political and Social Change, and Director, Indonesia Institute, Australian National University

    Last week, the Trump administration signed a deal with Ukraine that gives it privileged access to Ukraine’s natural resources.

    Some news outlets described the deal as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky “caving” to US President Donald Trump’s demands.

    But we see the agreement as the result of clever bargaining on the part of Ukraine’s war-time president.

    So, what does the deal mean for Ukraine? And will this be help strengthen America’s mineral supply chains?

    Ukraine’s natural resource wealth

    Ukraine is home to 5% of the world’s critical mineral wealth, including 22 of the 34 minerals identified by the European Union as vital for defence, construction and high-tech manufacturing.

    However, there’s a big difference between resources (what’s in the ground) and reserves (what can be commercially exploited). Ukraine’s proven mineral reserves are limited.

    Further, Ukraine has an estimated mineral wealth of around US$14.8 trillion (A$23 trillion), but more than half of this is in territories currently occupied by Russia.

    What does the new deal mean for Ukraine?

    American support for overseas conflict is usually about securing US economic interests — often in the form of resource exploitation. From the Middle East to Asia, US interventions abroad have enabled access for American firms to other countries’ oil, gas and minerals.

    But the first iteration of the Ukraine mineral deal, which Zelensky rejected in February, had been an especially brazen resource grab by Trump’s government. It required Ukraine to cede sovereignty over its land and resources to one country (the US), in order to defend itself from attacks by another (Russia).

    These terms were highly exploitative of a country fighting against a years-long military occupation. In addition, they violated Ukraine’s constitution, which puts the ownership of Ukraine’s natural resources in the hands of the Ukrainian people. Were Zelensky to accept this, he would have faced a tremendous backlash from the public.

    In comparison, the new deal sounds like a strategic and (potentially) commercial win for Ukraine.

    First, this agreement is more just, and it’s aligned with Ukraine’s short- and medium-term interests. Zelenksy describes it as an “equal partnership” that will modernise Ukraine.

    Under the terms, Ukraine will set up a United States–Ukraine Reconstruction Investment Fund for foreign investments into the country’s economy, which will be jointly governed by both countries.

    Ukraine will contribute 50% of the income from royalties and licenses to develop critical minerals, oil and gas reserves, while the US can make its contributions in-kind, such as through military assistance or technology transfers.

    Ukraine maintains ownership over its natural resources and state enterprises. And the licensing agreements will not require substantial changes to the country’s laws, or disrupt its future integration with Europe.

    Importantly, there is no mention of retroactive debts for the US military assistance already received by Ukraine. This would have created a dangerous precedent, allowing other nations to seek to claim similar debts from Ukraine.

    Finally, the deal also signals the Trump administration’s commitment to “a free, sovereign and prosperous Ukraine” – albeit, still without any security guarantees.

    Profits may be a long time coming

    Unsurprisingly, the Trump administration and conservative media in the US are framing the deal as a win.

    For too long, Trump argues, Ukraine has enjoyed US taxpayer-funded military assistance, and such assistance now has a price tag. The administration has described the deal to Americans as a profit-making endeavour that can recoup monies spent defending Ukrainian interests.

    But in reality, profits are a long way off.

    The terms of the agreement clearly state the fund’s investment will be directed at new resource projects. Existing operations and state-owned projects will fall outside the terms of the agreement.

    Mining projects typically work within long time frames. The move from exploration to production is a slow, high-risk and enormously expensive process. It can often take over a decade.

    Add to this complexity the fact that some experts are sceptical Ukraine even has enormously valuable reserves. And to bring any promising deposits to market will require major investments.

    What’s perhaps more important

    It’s possible, however, that profits are a secondary calculation for the US. Boxing out China is likely to be as – if not more – important.

    Like other Western nations, the US is desperate to diversify its critical mineral supply chains.

    China controls not just a large proportion of the world’s known rare earths deposits, it also has a monopoly on the processing of most critical minerals used in green energy and defence technologies.

    The US fears China will weaponise its market dominance against strategic rivals. This is why Western governments increasingly make mineral supply chain resilience central to their foreign policy and defence strategies.

    Given Beijing’s closeness to Moscow and their deepening cooperation on natural resources, the US-Ukraine deal may prevent Russia — and, by extension, China — from accessing Ukrainian minerals. The terms of the agreement are explicit: “states and persons who have acted adversely towards Ukraine must not benefit from its reconstruction”.

    Finally, the performance of “the deal” matters just as much to Trump. Getting Zelensky to sign on the dotted line is progress in itself, plays well to Trump’s base at home, and puts pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin to come to the table.

    So, the deal is a win for Zelensky because it gives the US a stake in an independent Ukraine. But even if Ukraine’s critical mineral reserves turn out to be less valuable than expected, it may not matter to Trump.

    Eve Warburton receives funding from the Australian Research Council and the Westpac Scholars Trust.

    Olga Boichak is a director of the Foundation of Ukrainian Studies in Australia. She receives funding from the Australian Research Council and the Westpac Scholars Trust.

    – ref. Why Zelensky – not Trump – may have ‘won’ the US-Ukraine minerals deal – https://theconversation.com/why-zelensky-not-trump-may-have-won-the-us-ukraine-minerals-deal-255875

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Evans, DeLauro, Larson, Frankel Call out Trump Administration for Raising Costs on Seniors

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Dwight Evans (2nd District of Pennsylvania)

    WASHINGTON (May 2, 2025) – Today, U.S. Representatives Dwight Evans (PA-03), Rosa DeLauro (CT-03), John Larson (CT-01), and Lois Frankel (FL-22) released a joint statement calling on the Trump Administration to reverse course on its Social Security claw back rule that would still result in half of the Social Security check of affected seniors being taken away each month because of government mistakes. 

    “If the government makes a mistake and overpays your monthly Social Security benefits, you should not be the one punished. These claw backs only make it harder for seniors to make ends meet – forcing them to pinch pennies at a time when many already struggle with high costs. We supported the previous administration’s action that would have limited these claw backs to no more than 10 percent of seniors monthly benefit. President Trump’s proposal would allow nearly half of that benefit to be withheld each month, down from his original 100 percent confiscation proposal. Our bill clearly made them take notice, but it should not take public pressure to do what is right for seniors.  We will keep pushing for a 10 percent cap to protect vulnerable seniors.

    “President Trump claimed he would lower costs for hardworking Americans. If he is serious about that promise, he should not raise costs on seniors by penalizing them for mistakes made by the government.” 

    Earlier this month, the lawmakers introduced the ‘Claws Off Social Security’ Act, legislation that would cap the Social Security Administration’s overpayment withholding rate at 10 percent of a Social Security benefit on a monthly basis. You can learn more here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: House Foreign Affairs Committee Ranking Member Meeks Opening Remarks at Full Committee Hearing on Authorizing the State Department

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Gregory W Meeks (5th District of New York)

    Washington, D.C. – Representative Gregory W. Meeks, Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, delivered the following opening remarks – as prepared – before the full House Foreign Affairs Committee for a hearing on “The Need for an Authorized State Department”: 

    Thank you, Chairman Mast, and thank you to our witnesses for joining us today.  

    As members of this Committee, it is our duty to reauthorize the State Department regularly, just as Congress does with respect to the Department of Defense. As Chairman in the 117th Congress, I made it a priority to pass the first State Department reauthorization in 18 years, doing so in a bipartisan way with then-Chairman McCaul. That’s because both Democrats and Republicans believed that it was in the best interest of the American people and U.S. national security for Congress to ensure our diplomatic and development professionals have all the tools they need to succeed. 

    So, while I appreciate that this hearing was called and agree with the need for Congress to regularly authorize the State Department, Mr. Chairman, I am afraid this committee’s actions this Congress have run counter to that goal. Afterall, how can we engage in a serious, bipartisan conversation about strengthening the State Department and other agencies when Donald Trump, Elon Musk, and Secretary Rubio have eviscerated the very Department and instruments of national security we’re supposed to support, while not being called even once for a hearing before this Committee?  

    You can’t remodel a home after burning it to the ground. And Congress’ legislative role should not be to simply rubber-stamp the arsonists’ work. 

    This is a profound moment of shame for the Republican party, as its Members sit silently while Secretary Rubio allows Elon Musk and his army of teenagers – who have no foreign policy or even government expertise – to dismantle the very agencies they have supported in the past. The United States Agency for International Development, the US Agency for Global Media, the Millenium Challenge Corporation, just to name a few, have all been met with a hatchet job FOR NO REASON. Meanwhile Secretary Rubio and my Republican colleagues – who’ve in the past understood their value – fail to speak up or, worse, contort themselves to justify this administration’s actions. There is no greater demonstration of this incredible cowardice than Marco Rubio, who knows this is wrong, but would rather sit atop a kingdom of ash than defend the work he once praised.  

    I had hoped that Secretary Rubio would at least try to protect the Department, USAID and their workforces who’ve dedicated their lives to serving the American people. Instead, he stood by while Musk, Pete Marocco, and DOGE illegally gutted USAID – a statutory agency – and condemned millions of people around the world to disease, starvation, and death by slashing foreign assistance, forfeiting U.S. global leadership in the process. 

    The wanton destruction didn’t end with USAID or Pete Marocco’s exit. Most recently, Secretary Rubio gave this Committee just 25-minutes’ notice before announcing a sweeping dismantling of our soft power tools in the name of a State “reorganization.”  

    This is not reform, it’s abandoning decades of bipartisan support for centering human rights and democracy in our foreign policy – without consultation, without engagement, and without any regard for Congress’ constitutional role as a co-equal branch of government.  

    To this day, Secretary Rubio refuses to follow the law and consult with Congress. And we have no reason to believe that will change. In the weeks ahead, we fully expect him to endorse the next chapter of Project 2025: closing hundreds of critical offices and potentially dozens of overseas posts, gutting the Department’s workforce, and slashing the budget –all of which will leave America weaker and more isolated. China and Russia will continue to celebrate, as they have done every day of Donald Trump’s first 100 days.   

    So, while I am grateful to our witnesses for joining us today and for their many years of dedicated service to our country, I have to ask: why are we talking to private witnesses instead of demanding Secretary Rubio come before this Committee to defend his reckless actions?   

    And how can we expect any meaningful authorization process when my Republican colleagues have refused to speak out—even as this Administration destroys programs and policies they once championed?   

    I have a long track record of working with any Administration that wants to strengthen our national security and works in good faith towards that end. But this is not business as usual. Donald Trump has taken a wrecking ball to our foreign policy, treated our allies as adversaries and our adversaries as allies, threatened to invade some of those allies, and launched a trade war that is hurting our economy and constituents.  

    And in placating their would-be-king, my colleagues have abandoned all they’ve held sacred, whether for political expedience, fear of Donald Trump, or both.  

    I would love nothing more than a good-faith effort to reauthorize the State Department and I welcome discussions to that end. But to my Republican colleagues, you all must choose. Will you—as an independent branch of government—stand up to Donald Trump, Elon Musk and Marco Rubio? Or will you enable and support the most rapid, intentional dismantling of American soft power and influence in the history of this country? 

    If it’s the latter, then I fear this entire endeavor is meaningless. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI This Week: Rep. Meeks Accepts Constituent Appropriations Requests and Calls Out Trump Administration’s Most Recent Chaos

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Gregory W Meeks (5th District of New York)

    April 25, 2025

    Accepting Appropriations Requests Through My Website 

    As your Member of Congress, I have the opportunity to request federal funding that will benefit our community. The request forms ask for information from individuals and organizations to that I can submit a request to the House Appropriations Committee on their behalf. The forms can be found here.   
    Congressman Meeks Calls Out Trump Administration for Defying Supreme Court Ruling on Deporting Kilmar Abrego Garcia    

    Due process is a fundamental pillar of the rule of law. When those in power disregard due process rights and undermine the rule of law, it threatens the rights and freedoms of all Americans. I joined my Democratic colleagues in demanding that the Trump Administration return Kilmar Abrego Garcia to the U.S. immediately. See letter, here.  
    Rep. Meeks Statement on the Trump Administration’s Proposed Reorganization of the State Department 

    I have said before that I am willing to work with any administration on responsible reforms that ensure we continue to have the best diplomatic and development agency to meet the global challenges of the 21st century. But Secretary Rubio’s proposed reorganization of the State Department, developed with zero consultation with Congress, raises significant concerns about the future of American diplomacy, foreign policy, and global leadership. Read my full statement, here. 
    Share Your Story: How Have You Been Impacted by President Trump’s Executive Orders?

    I’d like to hear from my constituents about how the Trump administration’s actions have affected you and your loved ones. Over the past few months, we’ve witnessed mass layoffs across government agencies, executive orders impacting various issues, threats against immigrants, potential tariffs on neighboring countries, and much more. My office is working with state and local officials to learn more about how these actions could affect our district and provide resources for people who have been affected. Please complete the form here to explain how these actions are affecting you and the organizations, nonprofits and businesses you support.  

    Sign up for my newsletter to get updates on this issue and others!

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: House Foreign Affairs Committee Ranking Member Meeks, Cherfilus-McCormick Send Letter Responding to FTO Designations on Haitian Gangs, Call on Rubio to Develop a Comprehensive Strategy on Haiti

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Gregory W Meeks (5th District of New York)

    Washington, D.C. – Representative Gregory W. Meeks, Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and Representative Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, Co-Chair of the House Haiti Caucus, today sent a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressing concern over the State Department’s decision to designate gangs in Haiti as Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTOs) without even a concept of a plan for Haiti. The Members expressed their alarm that absent a clear and comprehensive plan to defeat those gangs and their enablers, this designation will unintentionally exacerbate the suffering of innocent Haitians and help gangs consolidate further control. The letter demands answers from the Secretary regarding the administration’s rationale for the designation absent an actual strategy to address the urgent needs of the Haitian people. 

    The full text of the letter can be found below. A PDF copy can be found here.

    Dear Secretary Rubio,

    We write to express our grave concern with the State Department’s stated intent to designate gangs in Haiti as Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTOs) without first having a comprehensive strategy to support Haitian authorities’ ability to counter the gangs. We call on you to develop an actual strategy that addresses the urgent needs of the Haitian people, support for stabilizing the security situation, and policies that support greater economic opportunity, including the HOPE/HELP trade preference agreement for Haitians. While we support efforts to target the financial support of violent gangs wreaking havoc on innocent Haitians, we are concerned that an FTO designation, absent a clear, comprehensive U.S. strategy to defeat the gangs and their enablers, is counterproductive and will only exacerbate Haitians’ suffering. 

    An FTO designation imposes broad legal and financial sanctions that deter non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and international agencies from operating due to fear of legal exposure—even when their work is purely humanitarian in nature. Humanitarian aid serves as an essential bulwark against the gangs and their control of local economic activity in Haiti, and an FTO designation risks creating a chilling effect on the delivery of this much needed assistance. The gangs exploit the security vacuum they helped create, recruiting young men and children with false promises of protection and pay. If an FTO designation undermines aid delivery across 85% of Port-au-Prince or in Haiti’s Artibonite department, it’s the Haitian people—not the gangs—who will be punished. As reports of cholera and scabies in Haiti are on the rise, and with your cutting of funds to programs like the Improved Health Service Delivery project, which provided health services for maternal, newborn, child and adolescent health, nutrition, HIV, tuberculosis, and water, sanitation and hygiene to over 3 million people, including 20,000 living with HIVAIDS, further cuts to humanitarian assistance will have devastating results.

    We also believe the Department can make better use of sanctions authorities to levy targeted sanctions against individuals facilitating and benefitting from gang-fueled instability in Haiti. On August 20th, 2024, the Treasury Department sanctioned former President Michel Martelly for perpetuating the ongoing crisis in Haiti. If the State Department seeks more authorities to sanction enablers of Haiti’s crisis, we want to work with you to pass H.R. 2643, the Haiti Criminal Collusion Transparency Act of 2025, a bipartisan bill we have introduced that would levy sanctions on Haitian political and economic elites financing, arming, and benefitting from ongoing violence and the humanitarian crisis in Haiti. This legislation would enable a concerted effort against the gangs while keeping intact humanitarian assistance to Haitians enduring gang violence and instability. Prioritizing an FTO designation before taking full advantage of the other tools available to address the gang violence—like the use of additional unilateral or coordinated sanctions—or developing a strategy to make the Multilateral Support Mission effective is shortsighted. We remain concerned over the situation in Haiti and support a strong—and smart—U.S. response.

    So, we urge you to reconsider any designation that would prove counterproductive in countering the gangs and further increase the suffering of innocent Haitians. Thank you for your attention to this matter. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: Labour welcomes inquiry into school lunches

    Source:

    Labour welcomes the Auditor-General’s inquiry into the Government’s school lunches programme.

    “After months of chaos and kids going hungry, I’m glad that David Seymour’s school lunches mess is now being investigated,” Labour’s education spokesperson Willow-Jean Prime said.

    “I’ve heard from schools who’ve shared their heartbreak at seeing kids going hungry following the government changes to the programme. It’s even more disheartening when the Minister’s response has been to blame and shame schools that speak out.

    “It’s been a huge waste of time and resources for schools and has distracted many teachers from their classrooms as they dealt with David Seymour’s mess.

    “We’ve seen reports showing the lunches are not up to nutritional standard and a procurement process that has raised many unanswered questions.

    “Where Education Minister Erica Stanford has failed to act, I’m glad the Auditor-General is. David Seymour guaranteed that all will be fixed come Term 2, but the problems continue,” Willow-Jean Prime said.

    Stay in the loop by signing up to our mailing list and following us on Facebook, Instagram, and X. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Greenpeace – Luxon Government to pass law tonight that legalises killing Kiwi

    Source: Greenpeace

    The Luxon Government has just introduced a bill into the House that would make it legal to kill protected wildlife. Greenpeace understands the Bill is being rushed through all stages under urgency tonight, without public consultation or proper scrutiny.
    The amendment to the Wildlife Act, New Zealand’s foundational wildlife protection law, would allow the Director-General of Conservation to grant companies permission to kill native animals if they get in the way of projects like roads, mines or dams.
    Greenpeace has condemned the move as a clear and dangerous escalation of the Luxon Government’s war on nature.
    “No one wants to see roading or mining companies handed a licence to kill kiwi – but that’s exactly what this Bill makes possible,” says Greenpeace campaigner Gen Toop.
    “This is a law change no one asked for – except the corporations that see wildlife as an obstacle to profit. It’s being rushed through in the dead of night so the public can’t even have a say,”
    “If this Bill passes, it will go down in history as the moment the Government chose corporate profits over protecting wildlife that is already on the brink of extinction,” says Toop.
    Greenpeace is calling for the immediate withdrawal of the amendment and for the Government to strengthen, not weaken, protections for the country’s threatened wildlife.
    The Bill comes after a landmark High Court decision in the case of the Environmental Law Initiative v The Director-General of the Department of Conservation (DOC) and others. The case challenged DOC’s decision to grant Waka Kotahi permission to kill wildlife during construction of the Mt Messenger Bypass in Taranaki.
    The Judge ruled that the permit was unlawful, upending years of DOC’s practice of granting permits which authorised the killing of wildlife under the Wildlife Act.
    “The Luxon Government is changing the law to legalise what the High Court just ruled is illegal,” says Toop. “We’re talking about the kiwi – our national icon – being sacrificed so a company can build a road faster. That’s just not who we are as a country.”
    Greenpeace says the move is part of a wider pattern of stripping away safeguards for land, fresh water, and wildlife such as the repeal of the oil and gas ban, the introduction of the Fast-Track Act, and the recently announced RMA reforms.
    “Once a species is gone, it’s gone forever. We should be strengthening protections for endangered wildlife, not making it legal to kill them,” says Toop.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government Cuts – Government Rollback on Pay Equity is a Huge Step Backward for Women’s Rights, says ‘Mind the Gap’ co-founder – YWCA

    Source: Auckland YWCA

    The Government’s proposed amendments to the Equal Pay Act 1972 represent a major setback for pay equity and a breach of women’s fundamental rights, says leading gender advocate Dellwyn Stuart, co-founder of Mind the Gap and CEO of YWCA Auckland.
    “This move takes us backwards, not forwards,” says Ms Stuart. “It remains a violation of women’s human rights to be paid unfairly, and this Government is dismantling decades of hard-won progress to close the gender pay gap.”
    Female-dominated professions – including care work, nursing, and early childhood education – continue to be underpaid and undervalued compared to traditionally male-dominated sectors, despite their essential role in the wellbeing of Aotearoa.
    “We saw during Covid-19 how vital these roles are to society. Nurses and carers were rightly recognised as essential. Now, those same workers are being told that fair pay is off the table – that their aspirations for financial security and dignity at work don’t count,” says Ms Stuart.
    She warns that these changes will likely worsen the existing workforce crisis: “Skilled workers will continue to seek better opportunities overseas, leaving our health and social systems even more vulnerable.
    “With many pay equity claims involving government-employed workforces, Ms Stuart points to the contradiction at the heart of current policymaking: “This coalition government is actively perpetuating pay discrimination. At the same time, the Minister for Women is travelling the country asking businesses to close their pay gaps. How can the Government expect the private sector to commit to pay equity when it is not leading by example?”
    The gender pay gap remains a significant issue in Aotearoa New Zealand, particularly affecting Māori and Pacific women, who are already over-represented in lower-income statistics. While the national gender pay gap sits at 8.2%, it rises to 15% for Māori women and 17.3% for Pacific women (Source: Ministry for Women, 2024).
    “If we’re serious about fairness and decency in this country, we need to properly value the work of those who contribute the most to the wellbeing of our society,” say Ms Stuart.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –