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Category: Scandinavia

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Tuomas Välimäki: Opening remarks – Nordic Cyber in Finance Conference

    Source: Bank for International Settlements

    Dear colleagues, dear friends,

    A very warm welcome to the seventh Nordic Cyber in Finance conference, hosted by Suomen Pankki, the Bank of Finland. In Finland, we hold resilience and preparedness in high regard, and I am no exception to this. It is a privilege and an honor to open this highly topical event today.

    Over the course of the day, we will explore different themes centered on resilience and preparedness. We will deal with hybrid threats in cyber space – critical infrastructure protection, information manipulation and cyber defense tools. These topics will be covered by a distinguished line-up of speakers ranging from cyber security industry to financial institutions as well as authorities. I will now provide you with an overview of what lies ahead and, more importantly, emphasize why these topics matter.

    Network Effects, Interconnectedness, and Collaboration

    The financial industry prospers on increasing network effects. This creates an inherent drive for growth, where often the largest players dominate the market. As businesses scale, the dependency within the industry deepens, making individual entities critical to the overall network. While this growth may benefit business, it also magnifies the importance of preparedness, as failures can become too large to bear.

    This is true not only for payment systems and commercial banks but also for central banks. For instance, over the last two decades, TARGET services have evolved into one of the most efficient settlement systems globally, a testament to the power of scale. Today we will learn how Eurosystem secures Europe’s financial backbone, i.e. the TARGET services. Ensuring the security of such a critical infrastructure is a mission that demands relentless efforts. We must maintain and strengthen community wide partnerships to safeguard this backbone.

    Critical Infrastructure and Path Dependency

    The interdependencies within critical infrastructure extend beyond finance. Consider the electrical grid, which the financial sector heavily relies on. If a major electricity producer or distributor fails, the consequences can be swift and severe for the whole electric system – much like the systemic impact that we’ve witnessed also in financial crises. These interconnected systems highlight that path dependencies are not industry-specific; they are intertwined across multiple sectors, systems, agreements and customers. 

    While banks are generally well-prepared for major disruptions, the same cannot always be said for the average citizen or business. For example, large banking institutions are likely to sustain operations during a power outage, but the same cannot be expected for the average citizen or a small firm. The combination of systemic risk and contagion is a central concern for central banks. It underscores the need for a holistic approach to resilience – one that draws lessons also from other sectors. Today, we will hear from a power system network operator on how they as a critical service providers approach disruptions like geopolitics and green transition. 

    Hearts and Minds

    Hybrid warfare isn’t limited to physical infrastructure; it also targets our hearts and minds. Some might argue – and I expect some of today’s speakers will – that safeguarding our mental processes is even more crucial than securing infrastructure. While I won’t take sides, I do believe both are essential. 

    The way people think and form opinions can have profound impact on societal order. There is ample evidence throughout the history, how minds have been influenced and opinions shaped. Without listing historical nor recent examples, I trust we can all agree on this point. I also believe social media and new technologies have evidenced their capabilities for spreading misinformation at hyper speed and sowing widespread distrust.

    The importance of this issue is especially true in the financial sector, where trust is paramount. Lose trust, and customers will leave. Lose trust at the systemic level, and civil order can quickly unravel.

    Loss of confidence is central to all systemic crises. Even if not the initial cause, it accelerates crises to new levels. Financial crises have demonstrated how liquidity position of an institution is not only depending on the institution in question but also on the confidence of others. Trust can deteriorate through contagion – even if the crisis begins with another institution.

    While technical problems can often be resolved, a coordinated attack on both technology and public trust poses a far greater threat.

    Now, imagine a hybrid scenario where critical infrastructure is compromised or even damaged. For this example, the exact location of the damage is irrelevant, as we normally have robust measures in place across sectors to compensate for lost capabilities. We can re-route telecommunications, implement temporary solutions within the power grid, and even deploy backup clearing systems if necessary. Next, imagine that a second or third element in this scenario involves eroding overall trust in the financial system. Suddenly, the issue becomes contagious, escalates rapidly, and becomes much harder to contain – a textbook example of how systemic risks emerge. This is a fascinating topic, and fortunately, we have an entire session dedicated to it today.

    Facilitating the Discussion

    The financial industry is well-positioned to lead discussions on hybrid threats. Our existence depends on trust, and our interconnectedness means that threats can have a clear and wide-reaching impact. We engage in these conversations not to seek trouble but to emphasize the importance of proactive, coordinated responses in a highly networked world.

    While time may be on the attacker’s side, we must remain vigilant and learn when and how to respond effectively. In this learning process acting together is vital. Cyber threats don’t follow a zero-sum game. If one institution’s trust is compromised, the effects ripple industry wide. Indeed, when it comes to fighting cyber-crime or hybrid warfare, two plus two definitely equals much more than four. I am confident that today’s event is a step toward building a stronger, more resilient industry and society.

    I sincerely hope you find the topics we discuss today both engaging and thought-provoking. With ten presentations and two panel discussions ahead, let’s make the most of this opportunity to collaborate and learn from one another.

    Thank you for your attention and once again, a warm welcome to this year’s Nordic Cyber in Finance conference! 

    MIL OSI Economics –

    January 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Letter of Intent (LOI) on expanded defence cooperation between Sweden and Hungary

    Source: Government of Sweden

    Letter of Intent (LOI) on expanded defence cooperation between Sweden and Hungary – Government.se

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    Swedish Treaty Series from Ministry of Defence

    Published 04 November 2024

    On 16 October 2024, Minister for Defence Pål Jonson and Hungarian Minister of Defence Kristóf Szalay-Bobrovniczky signed a Letter of Intent (LOI). This LOI is a bilateral declaration on expanded defence cooperation between Sweden and Hungary.

    Download:

    This follows from the agreement concluded between Sweden and Hungary on 23 February 2024 in Budapest to sign an LOI on expanded cooperation on defence and JAS Gripen fighter aircraft.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    January 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: Svalbard Global Seed Vault evokes epic imagery and controversy because of the symbolic value of seeds

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Adriana Craciun, Professor of English and Emma MacLachlan Metcalf Chair of Humanities, Boston University

    The entrance to the Svalbard Global Seed Vault. Martin Zwick/REDA&CO/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

    Two-thirds of the world’s food comes today from just nine plants: sugar cane, maize (corn), rice, wheat, potatoes, soybeans, oil-palm fruit, sugar beet and cassava. In the past, farmers grew tens of thousands of crop varieties around the world. This biodiversity protected agriculture from crop losses caused by plant diseases and climate change.

    Today, seed banks around the world are doing much of the work of saving crop varieties that could be essential resources under future growing conditions. The Svalbard Global Seed Vault in Norway supports them all. It is the world’s most famous backup site for seeds that are more precious than data.

    Tens of thousands of new seeds from around the world arrived at the seed vault on Svalbard, a Norwegian archipelago in the Arctic Ocean, in mid-October 2024. This was one of the largest deposits in the vault’s 16-year history.

    And on Oct. 31, crop scientists Cary Fowler and Geoffrey Hawtin, who played key roles in creating the Global Seed Vault, received the US$500,000 World Food Prize, which recognizes work that has helped increase the supply, quality or accessibility of food worldwide.

    The Global Seed Vault has been politically controversial since it opened in 2008. It is the most visible site in a global agricultural research network associated with the United Nations and funders such as the World Bank.

    These organizations supported the Green Revolution – a concerted effort to introduce high-yielding seeds to developing nations in the mid-20th century. This effort saved millions of people from starvation, but it shifted agriculture in a technology-intensive direction. The Global Seed Vault has become a lightning rod for critiques of that effort and its long-term impacts.

    I have visited the vault and am completing a book about connections between scientific research on seeds and ideas about immortality over centuries. My research shows that the Global Seed Vault’s controversies are in part inspired by religious associations that predate it. But these cultural beliefs also remain essential for the vault’s support and influence and thus for its goal of protecting biodiversity.

    The Global Seed Vault gives scientists the tools they may need to breed crops that can cope with a changing climate.

    Backup for a global network

    Several hundred million seeds from thousands of species of agricultural plants live inside the Global Seed Vault. They come from 80 nations and are tucked away in special metallic pouches that keep them dry.

    The vault is designed to prolong their dormancy at zero degrees Fahrenheit (-18 degrees Celsius) in three ice-covered caverns inside a sandstone mountain. The air is so cold inside that when I entered the vault, my eyelashes and the inside of my nose froze.

    The Global Seed Vault is owned by Norway and run by the Nordic Genetic Resources Centre. It was created under a U.N. treaty governing over 1,700 seed banks, where seeds are stored away from farms, to serve as what the U.N. calls “the ultimate insurance policy for the world’s food supply.”

    This network enables nations, nongovernmental organizations, scientists and farmers to save and exchange seeds for research, breeding and replanting. The vault is the backup collection for all of these seed banks, storing their duplicate seeds at no charge to them.

    The seed vault’s cultural meaning

    The vault’s Arctic location and striking appearance contribute to both its public appeal and its controversies.

    Svalbard is often described as a remote, frozen wasteland. For conspiracy theorists, early visits to the Global Seed Vault by billionaires such as Bill Gates and George Soros, and representatives from Google and Monsanto, signaled that the vault had a secret purpose or benefited global elites.

    In fact, however, the archipelago of Svalbard has daily flights to other Norwegian cities. Its cosmopolitan capital, Longyearbyen, is home to 2,700 people from 50 countries, drawn by ecotourism and scientific research – hardly a well-hidden site for covert activities.

    The vault’s entrance features a striking installation by Norwegian artist Dyveke Sanne. An illuminated kaleidoscope of mirrors, this iconic artwork glows in the long Arctic night and draws many tourists.

    Because of its mission to preserve seeds through potential disasters, media regularly describe the Global Seed Vault as the “doomsday vault,” or a “modern Noah’s Ark.” Singled out based on its location, appearance and associations with Biblical myths such as the Flood, the Garden of Eden and the apocalypse, the vault has acquired a public meaning unlike that of any other seed bank.

    The politics of seed conservation

    One consequence is that the vault often serves as a lightning rod for critics who view seed conservation as the latest stage in a long history of Europeans removing natural resources from developing nations. But these critiques don’t really reflect how the Global Seed Vault works.

    The vault and its sister seed banks don’t diminish cultivation of seeds grown by farmers in fields. The two methods complement one another, and seed depositors retain ownership of their seeds.

    Another misleading criticism argues that storing seeds at Svalbard prevents these plants from adapting to climate change and could render them useless in a warmer future. But storing seeds in a dormant state actually mirrors plants’ own survival strategy.

    Dormancy is the mysterious plant behavior that “protects against an unpredictable future,” according to biologist Anthony Trewavas. Plants are experts in coping with climate unpredictability by essentially hibernating.

    Seed dormancy allows plants to hedge their bets on the future; the Global Seed Vault extends this state for decades or longer. While varieties in the field may become extinct, their banked seeds live to fight another day.

    Storing more than seeds

    In 2017, a delegation of Quechua farmers from the Peruvian Andes traveled to Svalbard to deposit seeds of their sacred potato varieties in the vault. In songs and prayers, they said goodbye to the seeds as their “loved ones” and “endangered children.” “We’re not just leaving genes, but also a family,” one farmer told Svalbard officials.

    The farmers said the vault would protect what they called their “Indigenous biocultural heritage” – an interweaving of scientific and cultural value, and of plants and people, that for the farmers evoked the sacred.

    People from around the world have sought to attach their art to the Global Seed Vault for a similar reason. In 2018, the Svalbard Seed Cultures Ark began depositing artworks that attach stories to seeds in a nearby mine.

    Pope Francis sent an envoy with a handmade copy of a book reflecting on the pope’s message of hope to the world during the COVID-19 pandemic. Japanese sculptor Mitsuaki Tanabe created a 9-meter-long steel grain of rice for the vault’s opening and was permitted to place a miniature version inside.

    Seeds sleeping in Svalbard are far from their home soil, but each one is enveloped in an invisible web of the microbes and fungi that traveled with it. These microbiomes are still interacting with each seed in ways scientists are just beginning to understand.

    I see the Global Seed Vault as a lively and fragile place, powered not by money or technology but by the strange power of seeds. The World Food Prize once again highlights their vital promise.

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

    – ref. Svalbard Global Seed Vault evokes epic imagery and controversy because of the symbolic value of seeds – https://theconversation.com/svalbard-global-seed-vault-evokes-epic-imagery-and-controversy-because-of-the-symbolic-value-of-seeds-240086

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    January 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: One month after the tragic school bus crash in Khu Khot, UN Special Envoy for Road Safety to promote and launch the UN-JCDecaux campaign for road safety in Thailand

    Source: United Nations Economic Commission for Europe

    The UN Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Road Safety, Jean Todt, is visiting Bangkok from 30 October to 6 November 2024. During his visit, he will meet with the Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, key government officials, representatives of the international community, private, and public sectors to promote road safety initiatives and advocate for enhanced measures, particularly on wearing quality helmets. His visit will be also the occasion to launch the UN-JCDecaux campaign #MakeASafetyStatement in the country.  The Special Envoy will also speak at the UNESCAP/Alliance française Road Safety Seminar on 4 November.  This aligns with the Global Plan for the Decade of Action for Road Safety 2021-2030, aiming to halve road fatalities by 2030.

    The visit of the Special Envoy comes one month after the tragic bus road crash which caught fire while travelling on an outbound lane in Khu Khot in the Pathum Thani Province, resulting in 23 deaths of which were mainly school students.

    The silent pandemic

    Every year, the staggering toll of road-related fatalities claims the lives of 1.19 million people, leaving countless others with severe injuries. This silent pandemic overwhelmingly affects developing nations, where over 90% of the road traffic fatalities occur. Furthermore, road crashes are the leading cause of death for children and young adults aged 5–29 years.  

    According to the World Health Organization, road crashes kill 18,218 people in Thailand each year, representing a road traffic fatality rate of 25/100,000 population, while the rate is in 15.7/100,000 in South-East Asia and 6.5/100,000 in Europe (WHO 2021). Despite the recent efforts of the country, Thailand is still ranked on the top worst countries in term of road fatalities.  This is therefore urgent to act for increasing road safety in the country.

    “Every life lost to preventable road accidents is a tragedy that reverberates through our communities and our country. This recent tragedy has reminded us of the urgent need for effective and sustained action. Road safety is not merely a matter of law enforcement but a shared societal responsibility. We owe it to our citizens, especially our children, to make our roads safer”, stated the new Prime Minister, H.E. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra.

    Road crashes have a significant social and economic burden, particularly in Thailand.  “In addition to the human tragedy, road crashes trap countries into a vicious circle of poverty, costing till 6% of the GDP. Given their social and economic cost, road crashes are jeopardizing the entire sustainable development agenda. Now is the time for change, and I am looking forward to working with the Government of Thailand to stop the carnage on the roads.” stressed the UNSG’s Special Envoy Todt.

    Wearing a safe helmet

    If the causes of road crashes are multiple such as the non-reliability of the vehicles and of the road’s infrastructure and design, the lack of post-crashes services, weaknesses in the road safety management, a dangerous road user’s behavior is still one of the main reasons costing lives on the road. On the mitigation of the risk factors for the road users, wearing a helmet responding to the UN standards is definitively a game changer. Wearing a quality helmet can reduce the risk of injuries by 69%.

    Knowing that Thailand has the highest rate of motorcycle-related deaths in the world, representing more than 70% of the road traffic fatalities in the country, wearing a safe helmet is an absolute emergency.              

    #MakeASafetyStatement

    During his visit in Thailand, the Special Envoy will launch the UN Global Road Safety Campaign, which aims to raise awareness of life-saving road safety measures. Launched globally in cooperation with JCDecaux Global under the motto #MakeASafetyStatement, it will run through 2025 in over 80 countries in the world.   

    The campaign seeks to reduce risk factors, especially in urban areas, enabling people to walk, live, and enjoy their environment safely.  Sixteen global, and dozens of national, celebrities have joined forces to advocate for simple and effective road safety rules.  Key messages include wearing a seat belt, driving safely, wearing a helmet, not texting and driving, not driving under the influence or while tired, and respecting pedestrians.

    Participating celebrities in the campaign include Football Legend Mr. Didier Drogba, F1 Driver Mr. Charles Leclerc, Oscar-winning actress and UNDP Goodwill Ambassador Ms. Michelle Yeoh, Tennis Legend Mr. Novak Djokovic, Musician Ms. Kylie Minogue, Motorcycle racer Mr. Marc Marquez, Supermodel Ms. Naomi Campbell, Actor Mr. Patrick Dempsey, Musician and Inspirational leader Mr. Youssou N’Dour, Actress Ms. Julie Gayet, Actor Mr. Michael Fassbender, Football icon Mr. Ousmane Dembélé, Double Olympic Champion Ms. Faith Kipyegon, F1 Driver Mr. Mick Schumacher, Actor Jean Reno and Cyclist Champion Tadej Podacar.

    Risk factors that are too often neglected                                                                                                                 

    Only seven countries in the world (France, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Luxembourg, Portugal, Sweden) have laws that comply with WHO best practices for all the risk factors – speeding, drink driving, UN-standard motorbike helmet use, seatbelts and child restraint systems.

    Media representatives are cordially invited to cover the launch of the campaign, mission and Memorandum of Agreement on Road Safety Cooperation between the Ministry of Transport and the Ministry of Public Health at the press conference on 6 November 2024 at 1.30 PM at the Ministry of Transport (Ratcharotsamosorn Assembly Hall) in Bangkok, with:

    • Mr. Suriya Jungroongruangkit, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport
    • Mr. Somsak Thepsutin, Minister of Public Health
    • Mr. Jean Todt, UN Secretary General’s Special Envoy for road safety,   
    • Ms. Michaela Friberg-Storey, UN Resident Coordinator to Thailand, presents the work of the UN in road safety in Thailand.
    • Mr. Arnaud de Ruffray, President of JCDecaux Thailand presents the UN-JCDecaux campaign for road safety in Thailand.
    • Ms. Saisunee Jana, Paralympic gold Medalist

     

    About the Special Envoy

    The former United Nations Secretary-General, Ban Ki-moon, appointed in 2015 Jean Todt as his Special Envoy for Road Safety. He was reconfirmed in this role by United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, in 2017 and in 2021. In 2018, together with 14 UN organizations, the Special Envoy launched the UN Road Safety Fund (UNRSF). The Special Envoy contributes, among other things, to mobilize sustained political commitment to make road safety a priority; to advocate and raise awareness of UN legal instruments on road safety; to share established good practices in this area; to strive to generate adequate funding through strategic partnerships between the public, private and non-governmental sectors. Special Envoy brochure and X account.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    January 26, 2025

  • MIL-Evening Report: Bird flu has been detected in a pig in the US. Why does that matter?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By C Raina MacIntyre, Professor of Global Biosecurity, NHMRC L3 Research Fellow, Head, Biosecurity Program, Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney

    David MG/Shutterstock

    The United States Department of Agriculture last week reported that a pig on a backyard farm in Oregon was infected with bird flu.

    As the bird flu situation has evolved, we’ve heard about the A/H5N1 strain of the virus infecting a range of animals, including a variety of birds, wild animals and dairy cattle.

    Fortunately, we haven’t seen any sustained spread between humans at this stage. But the detection of the virus in a pig marks a worrying development in the trajectory of this virus.

    How did we get here?

    The most concerning type of bird flu currently circulating is clade 2.3.4.4b of A/H5N1, a strain of influenza A.

    Since 2020, A/H5N1 2.3.4.4b has spread to a vast range of birds, wild animals and farm animals that have never been infected with bird flu before.

    While Europe is a hotspot for A/H5N1, attention is currently focused on the US. Dairy cattle were infected for the first time in 2024, with more than 400 herds affected across at least 14 US states.

    Bird flu has enormous impacts on farming and commercial food production, because infected poultry flocks have to be culled, and infected cows can result in contaminated diary products. That said, pasteurisation should make milk safe to drink.

    While farmers have suffered major losses due to H5N1 bird flu, it also has the potential to mutate to cause a human pandemic.

    Birds and humans have different types of receptors in their respiratory tract that flu viruses attach to, like a lock (receptors) and key (virus). The attachment of the virus allows it to invade a cell and the body and cause illness. Avian flu viruses are adapted to birds, and spread easily among birds, but not in humans.

    So far, human cases have mainly occurred in people who have been in close contact with infected farm animals or birds. In the US, most have been farm workers.

    The concern is that the virus will mutate and adapt to humans. One of the key steps for this to happen would be a shift in the virus’ affinity from the bird receptors to those found in the human respiratory tract. In other words, if the virus’ “key” mutated to better fit with the human “lock”.

    A recent study of a sample of A/H5N1 2.3.4.4b from an infected human had worrying findings, identifying mutations in the virus with the potential to increase transmission between human hosts.

    Why are pigs a problem?

    A human pandemic strain of influenza can arise in several ways. One involves close contact between humans and animals infected with their own specific flu viruses, creating opportunities for genetic mixing between avian and human viruses.

    Pigs are the ideal genetic mixing vessel to generate a human pandemic influenza strain, because they have receptors in their respiratory tracts which both avian and human flu viruses can bind to.

    This means pigs can be infected with a bird flu virus and a human flu virus at the same time. These viruses can exchange genetic material to mutate and become easily transmissible in humans.


    The Conversation, CC BY-SA

    Interestingly, in the past pigs were less susceptible to A/H5N1 viruses. However, the virus has recently mutated to infect pigs more readily.

    In the recent case in Oregon, A/H5N1 was detected in a pig on a non-commercial farm after an outbreak occurred among the poultry housed on the same farm. This strain of A/H5N1 was from wild birds, not the one that is widespread in US dairy cows.

    The infection of a pig is a warning. If the virus enters commercial piggeries, it would create a far greater level of risk of a pandemic, especially as the US goes into winter, when human seasonal flu starts to rise.

    How can we mitigate the risk?

    Surveillance is key to early detection of a possible pandemic. This includes comprehensive testing and reporting of infections in birds and animals, alongside financial compensation and support measures for farmers to encourage timely reporting.

    Strengthening global influenza surveillance is crucial, as unusual spikes in pneumonia and severe respiratory illnesses could signal a human pandemic. Our EPIWATCH system looks for early warnings of such activity, which can speed up vaccine development.

    If a cluster of human cases occurs, and influenza A is detected, further testing (called subtyping) is essential to ascertain whether it’s a seasonal strain, an avian strain from a spillover event, or a novel pandemic strain.

    Early identification can prevent a pandemic. Any delay in identifying an emerging pandemic strain enables the virus to spread widely across international borders.

    Australia’s first human case of A/H5N1 occurred in a child who acquired the infection while travelling in India, and was hospitalised with illness in March 2024. At the time, testing revealed Influenza A (which could be seasonal flu or avian flu), but subtyping to identify A/H5N1 was delayed.

    This kind of delay can be costly if a human-transmissible A/H5N1 arises and is assumed to be seasonal flu because the test is positive for influenza A. Only about 5% of tests positive for influenza A are subtyped further in Australia and most countries.

    In light of the current situation, there should be a low threshold for subtyping influenza A strains in humans. Rapid tests which can distinguish between seasonal and H5 influenza A are emerging, and should form part of governments’ pandemic preparedness.

    A higher risk than ever before

    The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that the current risk posed by H5N1 to the general public remains low.

    But with H5N1 now able to infect pigs, and showing worrying mutations for human adaptation, the level of risk has increased. Given the virus is so widespread in animals and birds, the statistical probability of a pandemic arising is higher than ever before.

    The good news is, we are better prepared for an influenza pandemic than other pandemics, because vaccines can be made in the same way as seasonal flu vaccines. As soon as the genome of a pandemic influenza virus is known, the vaccines can be updated to match it.

    Partially matched vaccines are already available, and some countries such as Finland are vaccinating high-risk farm workers.

    C Raina MacIntyre receives funding from NHMRC (L3 Investigator grant and Centre for Research Excellence) and MRFF (Aerosol transmission of SARS-CoV-2 experimentally and in an intensive care setting) currently. She currently receives funding from Sanofi for research on influenza and pertussis. She is the director of EPIWATCH®️, which is a UNSW, Kirby Institute initiative. She has been an invited speaker at the 2024 Options for The Control of Influenza at four symposia organised by Moderna, Pfizer, Sanofi and Seqirus respectively.

    Haley Stone receives funding from The Balvi Filantropic Fund. Haley Stone would like to acknowledge the support through a University International Postgraduate Award from the University of New South Wales.

    – ref. Bird flu has been detected in a pig in the US. Why does that matter? – https://theconversation.com/bird-flu-has-been-detected-in-a-pig-in-the-us-why-does-that-matter-242688

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    January 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Latest update on cases of Clade Ib mpox

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) confirms 2 additional cases of Clade Ib mpox.

    Two cases of Clade Ib mpox have been detected in household contacts of the first case, the UK Health Security Agency (UKSHA) can confirm. This brings the total number of confirmed cases to 3.

    The 2 patients are currently under specialist care at Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust in London. The risk to the UK population remains low.

    There has been extensive planning underway to ensure healthcare professionals are equipped and prepared to respond to any further confirmed cases.

    Professor Susan Hopkins, Chief Medical Adviser at UKHSA, said:

    Mpox is very infectious in households with close contact and so it is not unexpected to see further cases within the same household.

    The overall risk to the UK population remains low. We are working with partners to make sure all contacts of the cases are identified and contacted to reduce the risk of further spread.

    Contacts of all 3 cases are being followed up by UKHSA and partner organisations. All contacts will be offered testing and vaccination as needed and advised on any necessary further care if they have symptoms or test positive.

    Previous

    30 October 2024

    The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has detected a single confirmed human case of Clade Ib mpox. The risk to the UK population remains low.

    This is the first detection of this Clade of mpox in the UK. It is different from mpox Clade II that has been circulating at low levels in the UK since 2022, primarily among gay, bisexual and other men-who-have-sex-with-men (GBMSM).

    UKHSA, the NHS and partner organisations have well tested capabilities to detect, contain and treat novel infectious diseases, and while this is the first confirmed case of mpox Clade Ib in the UK, there has been extensive planning underway to ensure healthcare professionals are equipped and prepared to respond to any confirmed cases.

    The case was detected in London and the individual has been transferred to the Royal Free Hospital High Consequence Infectious Diseases unit. They had recently travelled to countries in Africa that are seeing community cases of Clade Ib mpox. The UKHSA and NHS will not be disclosing any further details about the individual.

    Close contacts of the case are being followed up by UKHSA and partner organisations. Any contacts will be offered testing and vaccination as needed and advised on any necessary further care if they have symptoms or test positive.

    UKHSA is working closely with the NHS and academic partners to determine the characteristics of the pathogen and further assess the risk to human health. While the existing evidence suggests mpox Clade Ib causes more severe disease than Clade II, we will continue to monitor and learn more about the severity, transmission and control measures. We will initially manage Clade Ib as a high consequence infectious disease (HCID) whilst we are learning more about the virus.

    Professor Susan Hopkins, Chief Medical Adviser at UKHSA, said:

    It is thanks to our surveillance that we have been able to detect this virus. This is the first time we have detected this Clade of mpox in the UK, though other cases have been confirmed abroad.

    The risk to the UK population remains low, and we are working rapidly to trace close contacts and reduce the risk of any potential spread. In accordance with established protocols, investigations are underway to learn how the individual acquired the infection and to assess whether there are any further associated cases.

    Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting, said:

    I am extremely grateful to the healthcare professionals who are carrying out incredible work to support and care for the patient affected.

    The overall risk to the UK population currently remains low and the government is working alongside UKHSA and the NHS to protect the public and prevent transmission.

    This includes securing vaccines and equipping healthcare professionals with the guidance and tools they need to respond to cases safely.

    We are also working with our international partners to support affected countries to prevent further outbreaks.

    Steve Russell, NHS national director for vaccination and screening, said:

    The NHS is fully prepared to respond to the first confirmed case of this clade of mpox.

    Since mpox first became present in England, local services have pulled out all the stops to vaccinate those eligible, with tens of thousands in priority groups having already come forward to get protected, and while the risk of catching mpox in the UK remains low, if required the NHS has plans in place to expand the roll out of vaccines quickly in line with supply.

    Clade Ib mpox has been widely circulating in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in recent months and there have been cases reported in Burundi, Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, Sweden, India and Germany.

    Clade Ib mpox was detected by UKHSA using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing.

    Common symptoms of mpox include a skin rash or pus-filled lesions which can last 2 to 4 weeks. It can also cause fever, headaches, muscle aches, back pain, low energy and swollen lymph nodes.

    The infection can be passed on through close person-to-person contact with someone who has the infection or with infected animals and through contact with contaminated materials. Anyone with symptoms should continue to avoid contact with other people while symptoms persist.

    The UK has an existing stock of mpox vaccines and last month announced further vaccines are being procured to support a routine immunisation programme to provide additional resilience in the UK. This is in line with more recent independent JCVI advice.

    Working alongside international partners, UKHSA has been monitoring Clade Ib mpox closely since the outbreak in DRC first emerged, publishing regular risk assessment updates.

    The wider risk to the UK population remains low.

    UKHSA has published its first technical briefing on clade I mpox which provides further information on the current situation and UK preparedness and response.

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    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    January 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Thales: Launch of the 2024 Employee Share Ownership Plan

    Source: Thales Group

    Headline: Thales: Launch of the 2024
    Employee Share Ownership Plan

    04 Nov 2024

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    Thales (Euronext Paris: HO) announces the launch of its 2024 employee share ownership plan, running from Monday 4 November to Friday 24 November 2024. This offer is available to Thales employees across 36 countries who are participants in the Group Savings Plan and have at least three months of seniority as of 24 November 24 2024, as well as to the company’s retirees. ​

    The plan offers a 20% discount on the Thales share price, along with a 50% matching contribution on personal investment up to a maximum of €500, funded by Thales. ​

    The objective of this plan is to strengthen the bond between Thales and its employees by providing them with the opportunity to become more closely associated with the Group’s goals, performance, and future successes.

    Terms of the 2024 Employee Share Ownership Plan

    This share offer is available to employees in France, South Africa, Germany, Saudi Arabia, Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, China, Colombia, Denmark, Egypt, United Arab Emirates, Spain, the United States, Finland, Hong Kong, India, Israel, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, Mexico, Norway, the Netherlands, the Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Czech Republic, Romania, Singapore, Sweden, Switzerland, and Turkey who are eligible and participate in the Group Savings Plan. ​

    In the United Kingdom, Thales shares will be offered through a Share Incentive Plan (SIP).

    Offered Shares ​

    The Thales share offer to Group employees will be conducted through the transfer of existing treasury shares previously repurchased by Thales under a share buyback programme authorised by the shareholders’ general meeting in accordance with Article L. 22-10-62 of the French Commercial Code. The transfer of shares to employees and retirees participating in the Group Savings Plan will be carried out under the provisions of Articles L. 3332-18 and following of the French Labour Code, except for the offer in the United Kingdom, where it will be conducted under an SIP. ​

    On 3 April 2024, the Board of Directors decided to implement this employee share ownership plan and delegated the necessary powers to the Chairman and CEO for its execution. In line with the Board’s decision, the offer will cover a maximum of 600,000 shares, with a cost cap of €31 million (including the discount and matching contributions in the employee share ownership plan and SIP matching contributions).

    The Chairman and CEO, by delegation from the Board of Directors, set the subscription period dates and acquisition price by decision on 28 October 2024. The acquisition price is set at 80% of the reference price. ​

    The reference price, noted by the Chairman and CEO on 28 October 2024, is the average of Thales’s opening share prices on the Euronext Paris market over the twenty (20) trading days preceding this date, amounting to €149.61. Accordingly, the acquisition price for employees is €119.69. For the offer in the United Kingdom, the acquisition price will be determined in accordance with the applicable SIP rules. ​

    The shares acquired by offer participants, being existing ordinary shares, are fully assimilated with the existing ordinary shares that make up Thales’s share capital. ​

    Offer Conditions

    • Eligible Offer Participants: The offer is open to employees of the included companies who are part of the Group Savings Plan, regardless of their employment contract (permanent or fixed-term, full-time or part-time) and with a minimum of three months’ seniority. Retirees and early retirees from Thales’s French companies who joined the Group Savings Plan prior to their departure are also eligible, provided they have maintained holdings in the Group Savings Plan since retirement or early retirement. ​
    • Included Companies:
      • Thales, with share capital of €617 825 739, headquartered at 4 rue de la Verrerie, 92190 Meudon, France, and ​
      • Thales Group companies in which Thales holds, directly or indirectly, more than 50% of the share capital, with headquarters in France, South Africa, Germany, Saudi Arabia, Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, China, Colombia, Denmark, Egypt, United Arab Emirates, Spain, the United States, Finland, Hong Kong, India, Israel, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, Mexico, Norway, the Netherlands, the Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Czech Republic, Romania, Singapore, Sweden, Switzerland, and Turkey, who are (or will be) participants in the Group Savings Plan.
    • Participation Methods: Shares will be acquired through employee mutual funds (FCPE) or directly, depending on the country, and via a Trust within the SIP framework. ​
    • Share Purchase Formula: Employees may acquire Thales shares through a classic subscription formula. Employees will receive a 50% matching contribution from their employer on their subscription amount, capped at a maximum contribution of €500. ​
    • Voting Rights: Voting rights attached to the shares will be exercised by the FCPE supervisory board in FCPE countries, and directly by employees in countries where shares are held directly.
    • Subscription Cap: Annual contributions by offer beneficiaries to the Group Savings Plan may not exceed a quarter of their gross annual salary, in accordance with Article L.3332-10 of the French Labour Code. ​
    • Share Retention Requirement: Employees participating in the offer must retain their corresponding FCPE shares or directly held shares for five years, except in cases of early release as defined by Article R. 3334-22 of the French Labour Code or local regulations. For shares acquired through the SIP in the United Kingdom, the retention conditions differ depending on the share type (partnership or matching shares).

    Indicative Operation Timeline ​

    • Subscription Period: From 4 November 2024 (inclusive) to 24 November 2024 (inclusive). ​
    • Offer Settlement Delivery: Scheduled for 17 December 2024. ​

    Listing ​

    Thales shares are listed on the Euronext Paris market (ISIN Code: FR0000121329).

    This press release has been prepared in accordance with the exemption from publication of a prospectus provided for in Article 1.4(i) of Prospectus Regulation 2017/1129.

    International Notice

    This release does not constitute a sales offer or a solicitation to acquire Thales shares. The Thales employee share offer will be conducted only in countries where such an offer has been registered or notified to the relevant local authorities and/or approved by a local authority prospectus, or where an exemption applies regarding the need for a prospectus or offer registration or notification. ​

    More generally, the offer will only take place in countries where all required registration procedures and notifications have been completed, and necessary authorisations obtained. For residents of Israel, the offer is conducted in accordance with the Information Document available on the website dedicated to the offer.

    About Thales

    Thales (Euronext Paris: HO) is a global leader in advanced technologies specialized in three business domains: Defence & Security, Aeronautics & Space, and Cybersecurity & Digital identity.

    It develops products and solutions that help make the world safer, greener and more inclusive.

    The Group invests close to €4 billion a year in Research & Development, particularly in key innovation areas such as AI, cybersecurity, quantum technologies, cloud technologies and 6G.

    Thales has close to 81,000 employees in 68 countries. In 2023, the Group generated sales of €18.4 billion.

    MIL OSI Economics –

    January 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Canada-Republic of Korea Foreign and Defence (2+2) Ministerial Meeting joint statement

    Source: Government of Canada News

    We, the ministers of foreign affairs and ministers of national defence of Canada and the Republic of Korea (ROK) met on November 1, 2024, in Ottawa, Canada, for the inaugural Canada-ROK Foreign and Defence (2+2) Ministerial Meeting (“the ministerial”). The ministerial builds upon the elevation of our diplomatic relationship to that of a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) and is a key deliverable of the CSP Action Plan launched in July 2024.

    November 1, 2024 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

    We, the ministers of foreign affairs and ministers of national defence of Canada and the Republic of Korea (ROK) met on November 1, 2024, in Ottawa, Canada, for the inaugural Canada-ROK Foreign and Defence (2+2) Ministerial Meeting (“the ministerial”). The ministerial builds upon the elevation of our diplomatic relationship to that of a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) and is a key deliverable of the CSP Action Plan launched in July 2024.

    Today, through several new announcements and initiatives, we demonstrate our resolve to deepen cooperation to reinforce global stability in the face of interconnected challenges in the Indo-Pacific and beyond. In this, Canada and the ROK are stronger together.

    Partners for global stability

    We condemn in the strongest possible terms North Korea’s deepening military cooperation with Russia in violation of multiple United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions, including the provision of millions of rounds of ammunition and ballistic missiles to support Russia’s brutal and unjustifiable war of aggression in Ukraine. We are gravely concerned that large numbers of North Korean soldiers have been deployed to Russia, which is a significant escalation with dangerous implications for security and stability in Europe and the Indo-Pacific region. We are closely monitoring what Russia provides North Korea in return for weapons and military personnel, including Russia’s possible provision of sensitive technology to advance North Korea’s weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and ballistic missile programs. We call on North Korea and Russia to immediately cease these unlawful and destabilizing activities and to withdraw North Korean troops from Russia. Recognizing that the security of the Indo-Pacific and Euro-Atlantic regions are increasingly interconnected, we commit to actively pursuing further measures together with the international community. 

    We call on Russia to withdraw its forces immediately, completely, and unconditionally from all Ukrainian territory to its internationally recognized borders; we reiterate our unwavering support for Ukraine and the Ukrainian people, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to protect and defend Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. 

    We express our deep concern with any nation’s efforts to support Russia’s war economy, such as through the transfer of dual-use materials, including weapons components and equipment, which enable Russia to prolong and sustain its illegal war in Ukraine.

    We condemn North Korea’s nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and ballistic missile programs, and continued missile launches, including its intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) test on October 31 (local time), which threatens peace and stability in the region and across the globe, are in violation of multiple UN Security Council resolutions (UNSCRs) and international law. It only demonstrates that North Korea continues to prioritize its unlawful WMD and ballistic missile programs over the well-being of its people, and we call on North Korea to cease its destabilizing actions. We reaffirm that any further nuclear test by North Korea would be met with a strong and resolute response from the international community. We continue to call for the complete, verifiable, and irreversible dismantlement of North Korea’s WMDs. The ROK reiterated the goals of its Audacious Initiative and ‘August 15 Unification Doctrine’ and

    Canada expressed strong support for the ROK’s efforts to achieve a denuclearized, free, peaceful, prosperous, and unified Korean Peninsula.

    Both countries remain committed to multilateral sanctions evasion monitoring efforts and Canada will continue to provide assets via the Canadian Armed Forces’ Operation NEON. 

    We were pleased to join other participating countries last month in launching the Multilateral Sanctions Monitoring Team (MSMT). We reaffirm the goal of assisting all UN Member States in implementing UN sanctions on North Korea by publishing information on sanctions violations and evasion attempts.

    We highlight the valuable contributions of the United Nations Command (UNC) to peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula. The ROK commends Canada for its unwavering support of the UNC since its inception, and Canada’s current leadership role within the UNC through its provision of its Deputy Commander. The co-hosting of the UNC Ministerial together this year is a symbol of our powerful ties and shared priorities in the areas of security and defence, and we will continue to collaborate closely to strengthen cooperation among the ROK, UNC and its Member States.

    The ROK and Canada are committed to working together to actively promote and protect human rights in the Indo-Pacific and around the world, including within North Korea and to seeking accountability for human rights violations.

    We reiterate that the situation of human rights in North Korea is intrinsically linked to international peace and security, and we call on North Korea to engage fully and constructively with the international community, including during its upcoming Universal Periodic Review at the Human Rights Council. We also look forward to the next iteration of the Canada-ROK North Korean Human Rights Dialogue.

    Canada and the ROK affirm our commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific, based on the rule of law and the peaceful resolution of disputes. We continue to advocate for peace and stability throughout the Indo-Pacific region.  We oppose any unilateral attempts to change the status quo in the Indo-Pacific. We reaffirm that maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait is indispensable to international security and prosperity.

    Canada and the ROK express their support for the global maritime order based on international law, including the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). We express concern about developments in the South China Sea, and emphasize the importance of maintaining peace, security, stability and freedom of navigation and overflight in and above the South China Sea , consistent with UNCLOS.

    Canada appreciates the ROK’s participation in the Conference on the Human Dimension of Ukraine’s 10-Point Peace Formula, hosted by Canada, Ukraine and Norway in Montreal on October 31st, demonstrating our joint resolve to end Russia’s war in Ukraine. Canada and the ROK will continue to discuss ways to jointly support Ukraine’s Peace Formula, while providing the support Ukraine requires to secure a just and lasting peace.

    Indo-Pacific partners

    Canada and the ROK acknowledge the Indo-Pacific region’s pivotal role in shaping global geopolitical and economic relations in the 21st century, with long-term implications for our shared prosperity and security. Canada and the ROK share a common vision for the region to be more secure, free, peaceful, prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable.

    In this context, we congratulate the organizers of the successful Canada-Korea Forum held on October 24-26, 2024 in Montreal, and the Korean Peninsula Symposium on October 23, 2024, co-organized with the Embassies of Japan, and the United States.

    To deepen and implement bilateral collaboration in the region, we announce today the launch of the Canada-Korea Indo-Pacific Dialogue, where our respective Special Envoys for the Indo-Pacific will engage on identifying synergies and joining action on shared regional priorities.

    We also look forward to the Indo-Pacific High-Level Forum, co-hosted by the ROK and Australia, in Seoul on December 13, as we recognize the importance of cooperation with the broader community of Indo-Pacific partners.

    In 2025, we look forward to Canada’s G7 Presidency and the ROK’s hosting of APEC. We further elaborated today how our two countries will establish synergies and use our leadership for cooperation on regional and global challenges. Canada looks forward to working with the ROK on advancing G7 priorities as relevant, including building economies that benefit everyone, fighting climate change, and managing rapidly evolving technologies. Furthermore, the ROK and Canada look forward to working together for a productive APEC in 2025.

    As actively engaged global partners, we will deepen our collective engagement with ASEAN, leveraging the ROK-ASEAN Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and the Canada-ASEAN Strategic Partnership, while reaffirming our commitment to the principle of ASEAN Centrality.

    Partners in security and defence   

    Canada and the ROK are committed to deepening partnerships in security and advancing shared defence priorities through bilateral and multilateral initiatives.   Canada and the ROK will strengthen bilateral and multilateral exercises, including holding regular Army Staff Talks, with the inaugural edition to be hosted in Canada.  

    We are committed to jointly delivering and collaborating on Women, Peace and Security, so that women have full, meaningful and equal participation in defence and security, peace operations and peace negotiations. As we seek to enhance women’s participation in conflict prevention, conflict resolution, and post-conflict state building, Canada and the ROK will leverage the ROK’s 2024-2025 UNSC seat to jointly advance the Women, Peace, and Security agenda globally as well as in the Indo-Pacific region.

    We will continue to cooperate on maritime safety, and combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, including through detecting dark vessels and joint patrols under Operation North Pacific Guard. We will also continue to explore ways of addressing maritime security challenges in the Indo-Pacific through enhanced maritime domain awareness and relevant instruments such as the Regional Cooperation Agreement Combatting Piracy and Armed Robbery against Ships in Asia (ReCAAP).

    We will further utilize the Canada-Korea Memorandum of Understanding on Defence Materiel Cooperation to share technical information, discuss defence equipment and technology issues of mutual interest, and identify opportunities for bilateral defence materiel cooperation, and hold the 3rd Joint Meeting (Materiel) in Canada in 2025.

    We agree to expand our work within the Canada-Korea Memorandum of Understanding on Defence Research and Development, to encourage collaboration between respective defence research and development organizations.

    Canada welcomes the contribution of the ROK as a NATO partner and commits to working with the ROK to advance its Individually Tailored Partnership Programme. Canada further welcomes the ROK’s recent participation at the NATO Defence Ministers’ Meeting in Brussels. 

    Addressing non-traditional security challenges

    We recognize that climate change is the defining challenge of our time and a threat multiplier that impacts our collective security, including within the Indo-Pacific and Euro-Atlantic areas, and we affirm our strong support for NATO’s Climate Change and Security Agenda. 

    We acknowledge that our democratic values, institutions and processes, and our citizens’ fundamental freedoms, are increasingly vulnerable to hybrid and digital threats, such as foreign interference and disinformation, and we will continue to expand our cooperative efforts to combat these threats.

    We are committed to addressing threats and seizing opportunities linked to cybersecurity and emerging technologies, including threats to the rule of law, democracy, and critical infrastructure. We are pleased to announce today that we will hold Canada-Korea Cyber Policy Consultations to exchange information on each other’s policies, strategies and capabilities. Canada is also pleased to note the ROK’s fruitful engagement with the NATO Cooperative Cyber Defence Centre of Excellence in Tallin, Estonia, of which Canada is also a member.

    We recognize the importance of the responsible use of artificial intelligence, including in the military domain. Canada commends the ROK for hosting several high-level international gatherings on AI to advance discussions on global AI governance, including the AI Seoul Summit in May 2024, and the Responsible Artificial Intelligence in the Military domain (REAIM) Summit in September 2024, in Seoul. We strongly support the Seoul Declaration for safe, innovative, and inclusive AI and the principles for the responsible development, deployment, and use of AI in the military domain articulated in the REAIM Blueprint for Action.

    The relationship between our two nations dates back centuries; reinforced by our countries’ collective efforts to defend peace and security on the Korean Peninsula since the Korean War. We commit to meeting in this format on a biennial basis and look forward to the next iteration of this Ministerial in 2026, where we will reflect on and examine how we may further build upon the achievements stemming from today’s discussion.

    Annex – announcements

    Today, the Ministers of Foreign Affairs and Defence of Canada and the Republic of Korea announced that our countries have agreed to:

    • Hold this Ministerial on a biennial basis and look forward to its next iteration in 2026 to follow-up on the achievements of today’s discussion.
    • Launch the Canada-Korea Indo-Pacific Dialogue, where our respective Special Envoys for the Indo-Pacific will engage on identifying synergies and joint action on shared regional priorities, including in the North Pacific.
    • Advance bilateral diplomatic intelligence cooperation and analytic exchanges between our respective foreign ministries.
    • Expedite the negotiations to finalize the Agreement on the Protection of Classified Military/Defence Information.
    • Explore measures to facilitate and deepen military operational cooperation.
    • Strengthen bilateral and multilateral exercises, including holding regular Army Staff Talks, with the inaugural edition to be hosted in Canada.
    • Hold the 3rd Joint Meeting (Materiel), hosted by Canada in 2025 under the Canada-Korea Memorandum of Understanding on Defence Materiel Cooperation, and continue to identify and expand opportunities for defence cooperation.
    • Hold Canada-Korea bilateral Cyber Policy Consultations.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    January 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: China to give visa-free treatment to another 9 countries

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Travelers pass through customs at Beijing Daxing International Airport in Beijing, capital of China, July 18, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Beijing decided to give visa-free treatment to another nine countries to further encourage cross-border travel, Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian said on Friday.

    China will extend the visa-free policy to ordinary passport holders from Slovakia, Norway, Finland, Denmark, Iceland, Andorra, Monaco, Liechtenstein and the Republic of Korea on a trial basis, Lin said.

    According to Lin, from November 8, 2024, to December 31, 2025, ordinary passport holders from these nine countries will be exempt from visas to enter China and can stay for no more than 15 days for business, tourism, family visits and transit purposes.

    MIL OSI China News –

    January 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: Finnish trade minister to attend China CIIE in Shanghai

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    This photo shows a view of the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai), the main venue for the upcoming 7th China International Import Expo (CIIE), in east China’s Shanghai, Oct. 22, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Finland’s government announced on Friday that Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Ville Tavio will attend the upcoming China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai.

    “China is an important trading partner for Finland, so it is useful to support export promotion and trade in sectors that benefit Finnish businesses. This is the fourth time that Finland has a national pavilion at the CIIE,” Tavio stated in a press release.

    The release also noted that Shanghai hosts the largest cluster of Finnish businesses in China.

    According to the release, Tavio will lead a Finnish trade delegation in China from Nov. 4 to 8. Following engagements in Shanghai, he and the delegation will travel to Shenzhen in southern China, with the visit ending in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.

    The seventh China International Import Expo is scheduled in Shanghai from Nov. 5 to 10.

    MIL OSI China News –

    January 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Canada concludes the Ministerial Conference on the Human Dimension of Ukraine’s 10-Point Peace Formula

    Source: Government of Canada News

    The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, yesterday concluded the Ministerial Conference on the Human Dimension of Ukraine’s 10-Point Peace Formula, which she co-hosted in Montréal with Ukrainian Minister of Foreign Affairs Andrii Sybiha and Norwegian Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide.

    November 1, 2024 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

    The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, yesterday concluded the Ministerial Conference on the Human Dimension of Ukraine’s 10-Point Peace Formula, which she co-hosted in Montréal with Ukrainian Minister of Foreign Affairs Andrii Sybiha and Norwegian Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide.

    At the conference, the ministers announced the Montréal Pledge —concrete steps to help return prisoners of war, unlawfully detained civilians and deported children, including support as these people reintegrate into their daily lives. 

    Minister Joly hosted foreign ministers and high-level representatives from more than 70 countries and international organizations to advance Ukraine’s 10-Point peace formula, identify diplomatic approaches to address the human dimension of the war and strengthen the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children. The minister chaired a session on identifying strategies to increase the exchange of information on the locations, health statuses and legal statuses of prisoners of war, unlawfully detained civilians and deported children.

    The harrowing survivor testimonies — from a detained Ukrainian military medic, the wife of an imprisoned journalist and a former prisoner of war — shared during the conference served as powerful reminders of the human cost of Russia’s war against Ukraine.

    As co-chair of Working Group 4 and leader of the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children, Minister Joly thanked Qatar, South Africa and the Holy Sea for their offer to serve as intermediaries to support and negotiate the return of children. She also thanked the United Arab Emirates for the role they are continuing to play on mediating the exchanges of prisoners of war. Finally, she expressed her appreciation to Norway, Lithuania and Qatar, who have offered to provide a supportive environment for returning Ukrainians returning home.

    During the conference, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau welcomed the diverse group of states that came together to find diplomatic solutions and concrete actions to protect Ukrainian people.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    January 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Nokia Corporation: Repurchase of own shares on 01.11.2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Nokia Corporation
    Stock Exchange Release
    1 November 2024 at 22:30 EET

    Nokia Corporation: Repurchase of own shares on 01.11.2024

    Espoo, Finland – On 1 November 2024 Nokia Corporation (LEI: 549300A0JPRWG1KI7U06) has acquired its own shares (ISIN FI0009000681) as follows:

    Trading venue (MIC Code) Number of shares Weighted average price / share, EUR*
    XHEL 1,068,314 4.35
    CEUX 231,330 4.35
    BATE – –
    AQEU – –
    TQEX – –
    Total 1,299,644 4.35

    * Rounded to two decimals

    On 25 January 2024, Nokia announced that its Board of Directors is initiating a share buyback program to return up to EUR 600 million of cash to shareholders in tranches over a period of two years. The first phase of the share buyback program started on 20 March 2024. On 19 July 2024, Nokia decided to accelerate the share buybacks by increasing the number of shares to be repurchased during the year 2024. The post-increase repurchases in compliance with the Market Abuse Regulation (EU) 596/2014 (MAR), the Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1052 and under the authorization granted by Nokia’s Annual General Meeting on 3 April 2024 started on 22 July 2024 and end by 31 December 2024 with a maximum aggregate purchase price of EUR 600 million for all purchases during 2024.

    Total cost of transactions executed on 1 November 2024 was EUR 5,655,401. After the disclosed transactions, Nokia Corporation holds 180,839,724 treasury shares.

    Details of transactions are included as an appendix to this announcement.

    On behalf of Nokia Corporation

    BofA Securities Europe SA

    About Nokia
    At Nokia, we create technology that helps the world act together.

    As a B2B technology innovation leader, we are pioneering networks that sense, think and act by leveraging our work across mobile, fixed and cloud networks. In addition, we create value with intellectual property and long-term research, led by the award-winning Nokia Bell Labs.

    Service providers, enterprises and partners worldwide trust Nokia to deliver secure, reliable and sustainable networks today – and work with us to create the digital services and applications of the future.

    Inquiries:

    Nokia Communications
    Phone: +358 10 448 4900
    Email: press.services@nokia.com
    Maria Vaismaa, Global Head of External Communications

    Nokia Investor Relations
    Phone: +358 40 803 4080
    Email: investor.relations@nokia.com

    Attachment

    • Daily Report 2024-11-01

    The MIL Network –

    January 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Members spotlight development issues in trade and environmental sustainability discussions

    Source: WTO

    Headline: Members spotlight development issues in trade and environmental sustainability discussions

    “Here we are at the end of 2024 and MC14 isn’t that far away. We’re committed to having concrete outcomes and so as part of achieving that, this session will be important,” said Richard Tarasofsky of Canada, which co-convenes TESSD together with Costa Rica, in opening the meeting. He added that a high-level TESSD plenary stocktaking session will be held on 4 December to seek members’ support for the proposed way forward towards achieving concrete outcomes at MC14 that reflect both the technical discussions in working groups as well as the written outcomes of those groups.
    “We are really making an effort to dig deeper into the development dimension, including in how we select topics such as climate adaptation,” said Mr. Tarasofsky.
    The four TESSD working groups advanced substantive work in their respective discussions at the meeting.
    In the Working Group on Trade-related Climate Measures (TrCMs), members deliberated on the use of TrCMs for achieving climate change adaptation and focused on developing country perspectives. They heard presentations from the International Institute for Sustainable Development, the WTO Secretariat, the World Bank, Barbados and Samoa.
    In the Working Group on Environmental Goods and Services, members exchanged views on trade-related aspects of water management and climate change adaptation, considering presentations on water management technologies and developing country experiences from the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) Copenhagen Climate Centre and the UN Climate Technology Centre & Network (CTCN). Members also considered presentations on identification and trade promotion of environmental goods and services from Australia, Finland and the WTO Secretariat.
    In the Working Group on Subsidies, members considered presentations on critical minerals, including how international cooperation can support developing countries in addressing challenges and seizing opportunities in the sector. The International Energy Agency, the African Development Bank, Australia and the Philippines provided presentations.
    In the Working Group on Circular Economy-Circularity, members heard from the Global Batteries Alliance on batteries passports and on circularity of batteries. They also heard from Rwanda on implementing circular economy principles in the transport sector. Members also were briefed on new analytical work from the International Chamber of Commerce, Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, and the Forum on Trade, Environment and SDGs (TESS).
    Across the four working groups, members also discussed possible ways forward for outcomes at MC14, including a compilation and mapping of policy measures shared by members, practical ways to enhance cooperation, and expanding and refining the TESSD indicative list of environmental goods and services. They also considered developing guidelines for subsidy design and recommendations to enhance transparency, trade-related guidelines for a circular economy and trade‑related good practices for circularity in priority sectors.
    Presentations and documents related to the working group meetings are available here.
    At the close of the two-day meeting, Ana Lizano of Costa Rica, TESSD co-convenor, said: “We have heard support as well as constructive feedback from the participants to the suggestions on the way forward presented by the facilitators of the four groups. So the co-conveners, together with the facilitators, will put together the most balanced outlook possible for 2025 and towards the next Ministerial Conference.”
    “We will continue working on bringing to the table more voices from the developing and least-developed members to consolidate an agenda that is not only balanced but also representative of the needs, opportunities, and interests of all TESSD participants,” she said.
    Guided by their 2021 Ministerial Statement, TESSD seeks to complement the work of the WTO Committee on Trade and Environment and advance discussions at the intersection of trade and environmental sustainability towards identifying concrete actions that members could take individually or collectively. The initiative, which is open to all WTO members, is currently co-sponsored by 77 members representing all regions and all levels of development.

    Share

    MIL OSI Economics –

    January 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Transparency and subsidy notification compliance spotlighted at committee meeting

    Source: WTO

    Headline: Transparency and subsidy notification compliance spotlighted at committee meeting

    The Chair noted that despite calls for members to notify their subsidies, compliance with the subsidy notification obligation under the WTO’s SCM Agreement remains concerningly low, affecting the Agreement’s proper functioning. 
    He highlighted that 84 members have not made their 2023 notifications, which were due by 30 June 2023, while 82 members have yet to make their 2021 notifications, which were due more than three years ago. He also noted that 71 members still have not submitted their 2019 notifications, now overdue by more than five years. Many of these members have either never notified or have done so only in the distant past, he said.
    The Chair emphasized that all members benefit from the collective effort of timely and complete notifications. “Ultimately, all members, in addition to being required to notify, have an interest in the notified information of other members,” he stated. He called on non-compliant members to fulfil their obligations, noting that transparency is fundamental to the SCM Agreement’s proper functioning.
    Highlighting efforts to improve compliance, the Chair drew attention to the WTO Secretariat’s technical assistance project on subsidy notifications. The first round of the project, completed in 2023, invited 43 members to take part, with 23 agreeing to participate. Of these, 11 members subsequently submitted their 2023 subsidy notifications in a timely fashion, accounting for 13% of all notifications received for that cycle. The Chair praised these tangible outcomes as evidence of the effectiveness of well-structured, customized assistance projects. He also informed members that a 2024-2025 round of the same technical assistance project will be launched towards the end of this year. He encouraged active engagement of the participating members.
    Several delegations took the floor to echo the Chair’s concerns, stressing the importance of timely and complete subsidy notifications for the SCM Agreement’s effective functioning. They also expressed appreciation for the Secretariat’s ongoing support and technical assistance efforts.
    Training session on subsidy notifications
    In response to a suggestion to organize a training session on the obligation to make subsidy notifications, the Chair acknowledged the potential benefits of such an initiative. He noted that holding a training session would be particularly useful given that a new notification cycle will begin in 2025. Recognizing the timeliness of such a session, he proposed that the Secretariat arrange this training early next year. The Secretariat will communicate the exact date and venue of the session in due course.
    Review of members’ subsidy notifications
    The Committee reviewed the 2023 new and full subsidy notifications submitted by Australia, Cabo Verde, Cambodia, the European Union (pertaining to Croatia, Luxembourg, and Slovenia), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Honduras, Iceland, Nepal, and Uruguay.
    The Committee also continued its review of 2023 subsidy notifications from Brazil, Canada, China, Eswatini, the European Union, Japan, Kenya, the Republic of Korea, Malaysia, Mauritius, Montenegro, Norway, Türkiye, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Vanuatu. It also continued its review of a 2019 notification from the Russian Federation.
    National legislation
    The Committee reviewed new notifications of countervailing duty legislation submitted by Brazil, Cabo Verde, Solomon Islands, and the United States. It also continued its review of the legislative notifications of Saint Kitts and Nevis, the European Union, and Ghana.
    Semi-annual reports of members on countervailing duty actions
    The Committee considered the semi-annual reports of countervailing duty actions submitted by Australia, Brazil, Canada, the European Union, India, Mexico, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
    In addition to the semi-annual reports, the SCM Agreement requires members to submit without delay notifications of all preliminary and final countervailing duty actions taken. Reports received from Australia, Brazil, Canada, the European Union, India, Mexico, Chinese Taipei, the United Kingdom, and the United States were reviewed by the Committee.
    Other matters
    The Chair recalled the 31 December 2015 deadline for the elimination of export subsidies by members that received “fast track” extensions under Article 27.4 of the SCM Agreement. He noted that only 15 of the 19 members that had received extensions have provided the final required notifications. He called on the remaining members to comply without delay.
    The Committee discussed a separate item China placed on the agenda regarding discriminatory subsidies policies and measures of the United States.
    The Committee discussed a separate item the Republic of Korea placed on the agenda regarding France’s electric vehicle subsidies programme.
    The Committee also discussed a separate item Australia, Canada, the European Union, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States placed on the agenda regarding subsidies and capacity.
    In addition, the Committee discussed a separate item the United States placed on the agenda regarding Kazakhstan’s proposed preferences for domestically produced agricultural machinery.
    The Committee discussed a separate item the United States placed on the agenda regarding the WTO Secretariat’s activities on subsidies. The United States highlighted certain Secretariat-initiated activities relating to subsidies, calling for greater transparency and consultation between the Secretariat and the membership.  Australia, the European Union, India, and the United Kingdom commented on the issues raised by the US, including by expressing support for the call for greater transparency.
    The Secretariat informed the Committee that it has been working on a transparency portal that will allow members to access information about Secretariat-initiated activities and explained that it expected this portal would be rolled-out towards the end of November.
    Under other business, the United States provided an update on proposed guidelines for submission of questions and answers under Articles 25.8 and 25.9 of the SCM Agreement, previously submitted by Australia, Canada, the European Union, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States, and discussed at the Committee’s regular meeting in April 2024.
    The Committee also adopted its 2024 annual report to the CTG.
    Next meeting
    The spring and autumn 2025 meetings of the SCM Committee are scheduled to take place in the weeks of 28 April and 27 October 2025, respectively.
    More information about the SCM Agreement and the WTO’s work on subsidies and countervailing measures can be found here.

    Share

    MIL OSI Economics –

    January 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: KH Group Plc’s Business Review January–September 2024: Moderate profitability in a demanding market

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    KH Group Plc
    Stock Exchange Release 1 November 2024 at 8:00 am EET 
      
    KH Group Plc’s Business Review January–September 2024:
    Moderate profitability in a demanding market

    This is the summary of the Business Review for January–September 2024. The full Business Review is attached to this release and is also available on the company’s website at www.khgroup.com.

    KH Group, July–September 2024 pro forma 

    • Net sales amounted to EUR 85.7 (91.1) million.
    • Operating profit was EUR 3.3 (4.1) million.
    • The net sales of KH-Koneet were slightly better than in the comparison period and operating profit remained nearly unchanged from the comparison period.
    • Indoor Group’s net sales and operating profit were below the level of the comparison period.
    • NRG’s net sales and operating profit were below the level of the comparison period.
    • KH Group divested its holdings in HTJ. 

    KH Group, January–September 2024 IFRS 

    • Net sales amounted to EUR 253.2 (161.0) million. The figure for the comparison period includes net sales accumulated in May–September 2023 and HTJ is classified as a discontinued operation retroactively.
    • Operating profit was EUR 0.8 (-17.5) million.
    • Net profit for the period was EUR -3.3 (-12.1) million.
    • Earnings per share (undiluted and diluted) were EUR -0.02 (-0.15).
    • Equity per share at the end of the review period was EUR 1.30 (1.39).
    • Return on equity for rolling 12 months was -7.1% (-14.5%).
    • The Group’s cash and cash equivalents amounted to EUR 11.6 million at the end of the review period
    • Gearing at the end of the review period was 195.6% (195.4%).
    • Gearing excluding lease liabilities was 120.6% (115.1%).

    CEO Ville Nikulainen:

    “Our consolidated pro forma net sales and operating profit declined year-on-year. KH-Koneet’s net sales increased moderately and operating profit was nearly at the same level as in the comparison period, which means that the market share increased in a declining market. For Indoor Group, the general market uncertainty, the increase to the general value-added tax rate in Finland and the deployment of a new ERP system in spring 2024 had a negative impact on net sales and operating profit.

    On 15 August 2024, KH Group announced the launch of an extensive operating model reform programme aimed at improving the group company Indoor Group’s profitability. The reform includes development initiatives to stabilise Indoor Group’s financial situation in the challenging furniture industry market environment. The company aims for an annual operating profit improvement of at least EUR 10 million by the end of 2026. Based on current information, a significant part of the targeted profitability improvement is estimated to be realised already during 2025. KH Group published a stock exchange release on 10 October 2024 concerning the reform of Indoor Group’s operating model and change negotiations.

    Nordic Rescue Group’s pro forma net sales and operating profit decreased year-on-year during the seasonally weaker quarter. The demand for rescue vehicles in Sweden has remained at a good level but, in Finland, the budgeting phase of the wellbeing services counties has slowed down the accrual of new orders during autumn 2024.

    In the fourth quarter, the business areas will focus on securing net sales and operating profit as well as improving the efficiency of working capital. KH Group’s change in strategy is progressing according to plan.

    On 9 August 2024, the company updated its earlier guidance on net sales and operating profit for 2024. The calculation of the guidance is based on Indoor Group’s lower than expected net sales and operating profit in both the first and second half of 2024. According to the updated guidance, the company estimates, with the current Group structure, to reach pro forma net sales of EUR 340–360 million and operating profit of EUR 4–7 million in 2024.”

    Events after the review period

    During the current year, Indoor will continue to implement measures aimed at improving profitability. KH Group published a press release on 10 October 2024 concerning the reform of the operating model and change negotiations.

    Future outlook

    KH Group’s medium-term objective is to become an industrial group built around the KH-Koneet business and to divest other business areas in line with previous strategy. At the same time, active developments will continue regarding other business areas. Exit planning and the assessment of exit opportunities for the other business areas will also continue.

    On 9 August 2024, the company updated its earlier guidance on net sales and operating profit for 2024. According to the updated guidance, with the current Group structure, the company estimates pro forma net sales for 2024 to be EUR 340–360 million and operating profit to be EUR 4–7 million.

    KH GROUP PLC

      
    Ville Nikulainen
    CEO

    FURTHER INFORMATION:
    CEO Ville Nikulainen, tel. +358 400 459 343

    DISTRIBUTION:
    Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd
    Major media
    www.khgroup.com

    KH Group Plc is a Nordic conglomerate operating in business areas of KH-Koneet, Indoor Group and Nordic Rescue Group. We are a leading supplier of construction and earth-moving equipment, furniture and interior decoration retailer as well as rescue vehicle manufacturer. The objective of our strategy is to create an industrial group around the business of KH-Koneet. KH Group’s share is listed on Nasdaq Helsinki.

    Attachment

    • KH Group Oyj – Business Review Q3_2024

    The MIL Network –

    January 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: The First Global Ministerial Conference on Ending Violence Against Children

    Source: Government of Sweden

    The First Global Ministerial Conference on Ending Violence Against Children – Government.se

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    Article from Ministry of Health and Social Affairs

    Published 01 November 2024

    Every year, half of the world’s children are subjected to various forms of violence. On 7–8 November, the first global ministerial conference on this topic will be held in Colombia’s capital, Bogotá. The Swedish Government is co-hosting the conference, together with the Government of Colombia, the World Health Organization, UNICEF and the UN Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Violence Against Children.

    Eradicating violence against children is one of the interim Sustainable Development Goals of the 2030 Agenda. It is now six years to the target deadline. The aim of the Global Ministerial Conference on Ending Violence against Children is to highlight the issue on the global agenda and accelerate efforts to end violence against children. Ministers from all over the world will convene at the conference to discuss how countries can take joint action, share best practices and formulate new and ambitious goals to end violence against children.

    “All children have the right to a life free from all forms of violence. Unfortunately for many children and young people, the reality is different. I hope that this conference will be a catalyst for addressing violence against children and raising the issue higher up on the global political agenda. Furthermore, I look forward to sharing Swedish experiences as well as learning and get inspired by concrete success factors, from both the conference and planned study visits in Colombia. For example, how to protect children from online violence, strengthen child and youth care and combat the recruitment of children and young people into criminal gangs,” says Minister for Social Services Camilla Waltersson Grönvall.

    Sweden has long been a role model regarding children’s rights. As a country, Sweden has made considerable progress in areas such as child protection, education, and social care, and was the first country in the world to introduce a ban on corporal punishment of children in 1979. Sweden also has a strong civil society and research environments that help to promote the rights of the child, and has been prominent in implementing legislation which puts the best interest of the child at the centre. By sharing experiences with other countries and spreading knowledge about Sweden’s strong tradition of protecting children’s rights, Sweden can drive international change, so that every child, no matter where they live, can live in safety and with their rights respected and protected. 

    Conference discussion topics will include corporal punishment, online violence, health, education, parental support, recruitment to criminal gangs, and sexual violence.

    Read more about the conference

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    January 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: City Art Centre presents POP LIFE: A vibrant fusion of pop culture and contemporary figurative drawing featuring works by 13 Scottish and international artists

    Source: Scotland – City of Edinburgh

    This November, art enthusiasts and pop culture aficionados are invited to immerse themselves in POP LIFE, an exhibition that explores the intersection of popular culture and contemporary figurative drawing, challenging traditional distinctions between high and low art.

    Opening on Saturday, 2 November, POP LIFE features works by 13 Scottish and international artists, many of whom will be exhibiting in Scotland for the first time. Each artist uniquely engages with popular culture, referencing diverse influences such as music, film, fashion, literature, social media, and celebrities. The exhibition highlights this interplay, using familiar language to delve into themes that expand traditional drawing practices.

    Co-curated by artists Euan Gray and Witte Wartena, POP LIFE is a travelling exhibition previously showcased in Sweden (2022-23) and the Netherlands (2023). This iteration has been tailored to include Scottish artists and underscores the enduring allure of the human form as a reflection of identity and societal norms, drawing inspiration from art history, socio-political movements, and cultural shifts over the past six decades.

    Visitors can look forward to works by renowned and early-career artists including Marcel van Eeden, Euan Gray, Paul McDevitt, Charlotte Schleiffert, Sandra Vásquez de la Horra, Witte Wartena, David Shrigley, Andrew Cranston, Laura Bruce, Marc Brandenburg, Donald Urquhart, Jamie Fitzpatrick, and Fiona Michie—all of whom draw inspiration from the imagery and messages of pop culture.

    Over 80 works will be presented, with several new pieces created specifically for this exhibition.

    Marc Brandenburg has transformed a room of the gallery with UV light, to explore unseen sides of Tiergarten Park in Berlin, whilst Laura Bruce accompanies her drawn tributes to country music icons with vocal renditions of their biggest hits. Edinburgh-based artist Jamie Fitzpatrick is showing his large-scale drawings alongside a new monumental sculpture, looking critically and who in society is publicly memorialised. Internationally renowned artist David Shrigley will present 16 brand new drawings, showcasing his absurd and humorous work.

    Culture and Communities Convener, Val Walker said:

    I’m delighted that the City Art Centre can showcase this fantastic iteration of the POP LIFE exhibition featuring the works of 13 exciting artists. I’m especially proud that it will mark the first time some of these artists have displayed in Scotland, and that we will be presenting works created especially for the exhibition.

    I’m sure visitors will be captivated by these pieces and engage with the ever-changing dynamics of art within society.

    Curator Euan Gray, said:

    In an era dominated by computer generated images, AI and 3D printing, this exhibition offers us a wonderful opportunity to champion the enduring appeal of traditional drawing, wholeheartedly embrace the language of pop culture and promote a remarkable group of Scottish and international artists for whom the human form remains an essential motif.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    January 26, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Middlesex Biotech Alum Publishes Fruit-fly Research

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    Jacqueline Guillemin, originally from the town of East Hampton, was homeschooled before deciding to pursue higher education. She wanted to further her studies but was unsure of which path to take. Her mother suggested CT State Middlesex (at that time Middlesex Community College), and it felt like an ideal choice, providing a smooth transition from homeschooling into college life.

    While at Middlesex, Jackie balanced being a full-time student with a part-time job. For a brief period, she also attended UConn as a full-time student while continuing her studies and work at Middlesex. At first, she was an environmental science major, driven by her interest in nature. However, her interests expanded when she enrolled in a biology course with Middlesex professor Frank Stellabotte, Ph.D.

    “When I took Dr. Stellabotte’s introductory biology course, I learned that the natural world had so much more to offer,” said Jackie.

    Jackie also added she was fortunate to study under several inspiring professors at Middlesex.

    “Clearly Dr. Stellabotte made an amazing impact on my education, introducing me to the topics I study today. Additionally, I would not be where I am without the support from [chemistry professor] Dr. Kimberly Thomas, who helped me find my passion for teaching in the sciences. Professor [Emerita] Donna Hylton, who gave me great guidance while working with the Computer Club as president,” Jackie said. “Honestly, I could list so many mentors from Middlesex as favorites!”

    Jackie recalls several standout Middlesex memories—from exploring genetics and zebrafish research with Dr. Stellabotte to hosting and gaming at Computer Club LAN nights.

    “Middlesex offered many opportunities to build a community and to truly feel connected which was very impactful to me,” said Jackie, who graduated from Middlesex in 2017 with an associate degree in biotechnology.

    When it came time to transfer to UConn to complete a four-year degree, Jackie again received strong support from Dr. Stellabotte along with advisor Emily Canto, who helped her build a compelling resume. Most of Jackie’s credits from Middlesex transferred smoothly, preparing her well for upper-level courses at UConn.

    Jackie went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in biology/biological sciences from UConn in 2019.

    Today, Jackie lives just outside of Burlington, VT, having chosen the University of Vermont (UVM) Department of Biology for her doctoral studies.

    “It’s a nice community of students and a broad biology program, which I appreciated for building my knowledge for a more integrative understanding of biology,” Jackie mentioned.

    At UVM’s Stanley Lab, Jackie’s research focuses on how fruit flies choose their food. She said she investigates feeding behaviors on a cellular and molecular level, seeking to understand how internal factors, like previous meals, influence their preferences.

    “We can use our knowledge of the fruit fly taste system to understand how humans integrate taste information and ways to decrease pest damage,” Jackie said.

    Jackie recently published an article in Cell Reports journal (Guillemin, 2023) describing previously unknown cellular functions in fruit flies, using innovative techniques to observe their taste response behaviors. Her findings revealed that certain cells activate upon detecting amino acids, prompting the flies to stop eating and lay eggs.

    “We use tools that allow us to modify the flies to piece together what parts are needed for taste and taste-related behaviors. Using these tools, I was able to ‘turn on’ the cell function and see what the fly does in response to that signal being sent to the brain,” Jackie explained. “Further, I can look at the brain in live flies and offer them different tastes and observe if the cell turns on to those tastes. We found that these cells turn on when in contact with protein building blocks called amino acids, and that they tell the fly to stop eating and instead lay eggs where ever they detect them.”

    Looking ahead, Jackie aims to complete her doctoral degree and hopes to secure a postdoctoral position that allows her to pursue independent research. Ultimately, she envisions a career that combines both research and teaching, passions she discovered during her time at Middlesex.

    During her time at Middlesex a decade ago, Jackie held various roles, including working in the Academic Success Center, serving as an educational assistant, and supporting the after-school STEAM Train computer training programs with Professor Hylton. At UVM, Jackie actively participates in her department’s social committee and holds a leadership position with the Out in STEM (OSTEM) group. Her teaching experience spans multiple semesters, covering subjects from genetics to comparative invertebrate physiology.

    This past summer, Jackie presented her research at the International Conference of Olfaction and Taste in Iceland, and in the fall, she attended the Society of Neuroscience conference in Chicago to showcase her latest findings for her next research paper.

    For prospective Middlesex students, Jackie encourages them to embrace every learning opportunity.

    “It may just feel like a class or two, but you are making connections for life in those classrooms. Relish in the time you have to talk with your professors about all of your favorite topics from that class,” advised Jackie. “And, most importantly, there is no such thing as a stupid question.”

    October 2024

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: BW Energy Limited – Prospectus approved for listing of bonds

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BW Energy Limited – Prospectus approved for listing of bonds

    Reference is made to the announcement by BW Energy Limited (the “Company”) on 7 June 2024 about the successful completion of a new senior unsecured bond issue with an initial issue amount of USD 100 million with ISIN NO 0013259663 (the “Bonds”).

    The Financial Supervisory Authority of Norway has today approved a prospectus prepared by the Company in connection with the application for admission to trading and listing of the Bonds on the Euronext Oslo Børs. The admission to listing of the bonds is expected on or about 4 November 2024.

    The prospectus will be made available on the company’s website: www.bwenergy.no/investors/


    For further information, please contact:

    Brice Morlot, CFO BW Energy, +33.7.81.11.41.16 ir@bwenergy.com


    About BW Energy:

    BW Energy Limited is a growth E&P company with a differentiated strategy targeting proven offshore oil and gas reservoirs through low risk phased developments. The Company has access to existing production facilities to reduce time to first oil and cashflow with lower investments than traditional offshore developments. The Company’s assets are 73.5% of the producing Dussafu Marine licence offshore Gabon, 100% interest in the Golfinho and Camarupim fields, a 76.5% interest in the BM-ES-23 block in, a 95% interest in the Maromba field in Brazil and a 95% interest in the Kudu field in Namibia, all operated by BW Energy. Total net 2P+2C reserves and resources were 580 million barrels of oil equivalents at the start of 2024.

    This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to Section 5-12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act.

    The MIL Network –

    January 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: Overshooting 1.5°C is risky – that’s why we need to hedge our bets

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Carl-Friedrich Schleussner, Research Group Leader, International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA)

    Further warming hugely increases the risk we will pass climate tipping points, such as the collapse of Greenland’s ice sheet. Michal Balada / shutterstock

    The global response to climate change has gained momentum since the 2015 Paris agreement, yet it remains inadequate to meet the scale of the challenge. That agreement established the goal of holding global warming to well below 2°C, and to pursue efforts to limit it to 1.5°C. To achieve this, greenhouse gas emissions should peak and decline as soon as possible.

    The latest reports of the UN Environment Programme, the International Energy Agency and others have suggested that we are on the cusp of global emissions peaking. However, halting the increase in annual emissions is only the first step. Failure to act earlier and more decisively to bring emissions down to net zero has made limiting global warming to 1.5°C an uncomfortably close call.

    The IPCC has looked at “pathways” to keeping 1.5°C in reach. In nearly all of these, temperature rises will exceed 1.5°C, after which warming is reversed by humanity removing more carbon from the atmosphere than it emits. This temporary breach of 1.5°C for at least a few decades is referred to as “overshoot”.

    In a recent study in the journal Nature, we discuss the pitfalls of being overly optimistic about the feasibility and safety of such temperature overshoot scenarios. Excessive confidence could lead to underestimating the risks associated with going over 1.5°C – even temporarily.

    There is a need to be clear about what climate science does and does not know about overshoot, and plan accordingly. This means that, while some risks can be directly reduced by global climate action, others may require additional measures. A responsible strategy to limit near- and long-term climate risks requires both stringent near-term emission reductions and to develop a large-scale carbon removal capacity.

    What if the planet warms more than we expect?

    Even if warming goes below 1.5°C after the overshoot, the impacts of climate change will not automatically and uniformly reverse. Overshoot comes with irreversible consequences for people and ecosystems, such as species extinction, and the world we return to will be different from the one we failed to safeguard.

    We can’t be certain how much warming a given amount of greenhouse gas emissions will lead to, and overshoot projections are often based on a best estimate. The IPCC, for instance, talks about high overshoot pathways exceeding 1.5°C “by 0.1–0.3°C”.

    But those numbers are just the middle of a wide range of possible outcomes. In reality, uncertainty about how some features of the Earth system will respond to warming, such as the carbon cycle, means that peak warming could be substantially higher – by up to 1°C or more. We cannot even rule out continuous warming after reaching net zero carbon emissions. Every fraction of a degree of warming counts – exceeding 1.5°C by as much as an additional 1°C would come with grave repercussions.

    We may have to remove billions of tonnes of carbon from the atmosphere.
    TR STOK

    A capacity to remove several hundred billion tonnes of CO₂ in this century might be needed to hedge against the risks of high warming outcomes, and to ensure we can bring warming back to 1.5°C once this has been exceeded.

    In fact, our results imply we might need close to 10 billion tonnes of CO₂ removal a year after 2050 (about 25% of current annual emissions). This would require a massive effort, but might just be possible with the rapid scaling up of a range of methods.

    These include well-known strategies such as restoring forests and wetlands and managing the soil better. But it also includes novel methods such as direct air capture technology, in which carbon would be sucked directly from the sky, or bioenergy and carbon capture and storage, which involves extracting CO₂ from the atmosphere and storing it underground.

    Some of these methods may not work out as envisioned due to technological, economic, social or sustainability limitations. But even if they do not work at the scale envisioned, or not at all, we still need to try.

    Limiting near- and long-term climate risks

    Because we can’t be certain exactly how much the climate will warm, we’ll need to limit the risks as much as possible.

    First, we must reduce emissions as fast as possible to slow down Earth’s temperature increase, limit peak warming, and reduce how dependent we ultimately are on removing large amounts of CO₂ to achieve net zero emissions.

    The Paris agreement accommodates such temperature reversal. Even if 1.5°C is exceeded, countries are obliged to hold peak temperatures to “well below 2°C” and to aim for long-term temperature decline.

    However, every fraction of warming will disproportionately make poor and vulnerable people suffer greater hardship, so delaying stringent emissions cuts is not a resilient strategy. The urgency to reduce emissions now should guide the next round of countries’ targets for cutting emissions that are due early next year.

    Second, we should consider hedging against high-risk, high-warming outcomes by building up our capacity to remove carbon and reverse warming. Just as governments hold strategic food and water reserves to weather unexpected disruptions, the world needs to develop the ability to remove large amounts of carbon from the atmosphere. But, given potential limits to how much carbon removal we can scale up in time, we also cannot afford to squander this capacity on any emissions that could be avoided in the first place.

    Investing in this kind of removal capability, on top of pursuing the most ambitious emissions cuts possible, is a no-regrets strategy. Should we have certainty that a more fortunate climate outcome will materialise, being able to remove this scale of carbon would enable us to bring temperatures down faster. And if the warmer side of our projections are realised, we will have put ourselves in a position in which we are best equipped to make temperatures decline again.

    Achieving temperature decline in the long run would limit longer-term climate impacts. For instance, in our study we showed that temperature decline could shave off about 40cm (and potentially up to 1.5 metres) of global sea level rise in 2300. This could be the difference between having a future or not for whole nations of people. It may also limit risks from triggering tipping points in the Earth system, such as the collapse of the Greenland ice sheet or currents in the Atlantic ocean.

    The high-risk outcomes of overshooting 1.5°C means we need to do more, not less, right now – and to focus on bringing temperatures back below 1.5°C in the long run.


    Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?

    Get our award-winning weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 40,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

    Carl-Friedrich Schleussner received funding from European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation
    programme under grant agreement No 101003687 (PROVIDE).

    Gaurav Ganti received funding from European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme.

    Joeri Rogelj received funding from European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme.

    – ref. Overshooting 1.5°C is risky – that’s why we need to hedge our bets – https://theconversation.com/overshooting-1-5-c-is-risky-thats-why-we-need-to-hedge-our-bets-241623

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    January 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Banking: IMF Annual Meeting 2024

    Source: Central Bank of Iceland

    Ásgeir Jónsson, Governor of the Central Bank of Iceland, and Tómas Brynjólfsson, Deputy Governor for Financial Stability, participated along with other representatives from the Central Bank of Iceland in the Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund held in Washington DC on October 21-26, 2024.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

    January 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: International Petroleum Corporation Announces Results of Normal Course Issuer Bid and Updated Share Capital

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    International Petroleum Corporation (IPC or the Corporation) (TSX, Nasdaq Stockholm: IPCO) is pleased to announce that IPC repurchased a total of 66,800 IPC common shares (ISIN: CA46016U1084) during the period of October 28 to 31, 2024 under IPC’s normal course issuer bid / share repurchase program (NCIB).

    IPC’s NCIB, announced on December 1, 2023, is being implemented in accordance with the Market Abuse Regulation (EU) No 596/2014 (MAR) and Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) No 2016/1052 (Safe Harbour Regulation) and the applicable rules and policies of the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) and Nasdaq Stockholm and applicable Canadian and Swedish securities laws.

    During the period of October 28 to 31, 2024, IPC repurchased a total of 52,500 IPC common shares on Nasdaq Stockholm. All of these share repurchases were carried out by Pareto Securities AB on behalf of IPC.

    For more information regarding transactions under the NCIB in Sweden, including aggregated volume, weighted average price per share and total transaction value for each trading day during the period of October 28 to 31, 2024, see the following link to Nasdaq Stockholm’s website:

    www.nasdaqomx.com/transactions/markets/nordic/corporate-actions/stockholm/repurchases-of-own-shares

    A detailed breakdown of the transactions conducted on Nasdaq Stockholm during the period of October 28 to 31, 2024 according to article 5.3 of MAR and article 2.3 of the Safe Harbour Regulation is available with this press release on IPC’s website: www.international-petroleum.com/news-and-media/press-releases.

    During the same period, IPC purchased a total of 14,300 IPC common shares on the TSX. All of these share repurchases were carried out by ATB Capital Markets Inc. on behalf of IPC.

    All common shares repurchased by IPC under the NCIB will be cancelled. During October 2024, IPC cancelled 506,400 common shares repurchased under the NCIB. As at October 31, 2024, the total number of issued and outstanding IPC common shares is 120,244,638 with voting rights and IPC holds 44,400 common shares in treasury.

    Since December 5, 2023 up to and including October 31, 2024, a total of 8,024,582 IPC common shares have been repurchased under the NCIB through the facilities of the TSX and Nasdaq Stockholm. A maximum of 8,342,119 IPC common shares may be repurchased over the period of twelve months commencing December 5, 2023 and ending December 4, 2024, or until such earlier date as the NCIB is completed or terminated by IPC.

    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    		   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 Swedish Financial Instruments Trading Act. The information
    was submitted for publication, through the contact persons set out above, at 17:30 CET on October 31, 2024.

    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: the ability and willingness of IPC to continue the NCIB, including the number of common shares to be acquired and cancelled and the timing of such purchases and cancellations; and the return of value to IPC’s shareholders as a result of any common share repurchases.

    The forward-looking statements are based on certain key expectations and assumptions made by IPC, including expectations and assumptions concerning: 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; and changes in legislation, including but not limited to tax laws, royalties and environmental 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 IPC’s annual information form for the year ended December 31, 2023 (See “Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information”, “Risks Factors” and “Reserves and Resources Advisory” therein), in the management’s discussion and analysis (MD&A) for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024 (See “Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information”, “Risks Factors” and “Reserves and Resources Advisory” therein) 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).

    Attachment

    • IPC PR Buyback results period of October 28 to 31 2024 and updated share capital 31-10-24

    The MIL Network –

    January 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Dauphin — Dauphin RCMP traffic stop leads to multiple arrests

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On October 28, 2024, at approximately 8:30pm, Dauphin RCMP detachment conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle with five occupants on Main Street in Dauphin.

    As the officer approached the vehicle, the driver indicated that they did not have their license with them. The driver, a 33-year old female from Crane River was also found to be in violation of curfew, and a 29-year-old male passenger, was deemed to have an outstanding warrant.

    After a search of the passenger, drug paraphernalia was located.

    A subsequent search of the vehicle was completed, and officers found 44 grams of crack cocaine, and Canadian currency inside.

    The following individuals were arrested and charged:

    Ariel Anderson, 24, of Norway House, MB

    • Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking – Cocaine
    • Possession of property obtained by crime
    • Failure to comply with a release order
    • Warrant of arrest out of Ottawa, Ontario

    Breann Breland, 33, of Crane River, MB

    • Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking – Cocaine
    • Possession of property obtained by crime
    • Failure to comply with a release order

    Marsha McDonald, 39, of Ochre River, MB

    • Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking – Cocaine
    • Possession of property obtained by crime

    Karen Spence, 59, of Ochre River, MB

    • Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking – Cocaine
    • Possession of property obtained by crime

    Owen Spence, 29, of Ochre River, MB

    • Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking – Cocaine
    • Possession of property obtained by crime
    • Warrant of arrest out of Winnipeg, MB

    Marsha McDonald and Karen Spence were later released from custody on a Release Order.

    Ariel Anderson, Breann Breland, and Owen Spence were remanded into custody with a court appearance at a future date.

    Dauphin RCMP continue to investigate.

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: World Update: how Israel’s relations with the UN hit rock bottom

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Jonathan Este, Senior International Affairs Editor, Associate Editor

    With the clock ticking down to November 5 and what just about everyone agrees is the most consequential US presidential election in living memory, various of the Biden administration’s top brass have jetted out to the Middle East for one last try to get a deal over the line.

    The most likely area where progress could be made is the conflict in Lebanon between Israel and Hezbollah. The militant group announced the appointment of a new general secretary on October 29. Naim Qassem is, as the BBC puts it, “one of the few senior Hezbollah leaders who remains alive after Israel killed most of the group’s leadership in a series of attacks”. He is reportedly making noises about possible change in Hezbollah policy that would separate any negotiations over the conflict in Lebanon with any talks over Gaza.

    If true, it’s a major shift from the policy of recently assassinated leader Hassan Nasrallah, which previously indelibly linked a ceasefire in Gaza with the cessation of Lebanon’s rocket attacks on northern Israel. Full details of the deal remain under wraps, but a draft was leaked to Israel’s state broadcaster Kan.

    Post on X by Kann reporter, Suleiman Maswadeh, with details of a proposed Middle East peace deal.
    X

    For Israel’s part, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said the initial phase of Israel’s operation inside Lebanon is drawing to a close. As for what comes next, the New York Times reported on October 28 that Netanyahu is “waiting to see who will succeed President Biden before committing to a diplomatic trajectory”.

    The diplomatic trajectory has been made more complicated of late by a big spat between Israel and the UN. The two have had a fractious relationship since the very start. But under the Netanyahu government, things have steadily deteriorated to the stage that Israel actually barred UN secretary general António Guterres from entering the country at the beginning of October.

    This week Israel’s parliament, the Knesset, passed a new law banning the UN relief and works agency (Unrwa) from operating on any territory it controls. Unrwa was set up after the war of 1948 to help displaced Arabs and has since morphed into what an independent review this year said was an “indispensable lifeline” for civilians in Gaza and the West Bank.

    The trouble is that the reason the independent review was reporting at all was that Israel was alleging Unrwa staff had taken part in the October 7 massacres alongside Hamas. Unwra subsequently fired nine staff members. But Israel’s contention that Unrwa is a “rotten tree entirely infected with terrorist operatives” remains unproved.

    Lisa Strömbom of Sweden’s Lund University, who has been following the conflict for many years, has traced the deterioration of relations between Israel and Unrwa over several decades. She now believes that Israel’s ban will make it nigh on impossible for Unrwa to fulfil its mission in Gaza. This can only make things worse for a civilian population in Gaza which is already trying to survive in the most difficult circumstances possible.



    Read more:
    Israel’s relations with the UN hit a new low with Unrwa ban

    The Netanyahu government’s decision to ban Unrwa has been roundly condemned on all sides. Some voices have even called for Israel’s membership of the UN to be suspended. That’s a complicated issue, writes Aidan Hehir, who has published widely on conflict resolution and treaty making.

    For a start, it would need to get past the UN security council which means being subject to a veto from any one of the five permanent members (P5). We published an article on this issue some years ago with the help of UN expert Emma McClean, which looked at the issues which had prompted members of the P5 to wield their vetos. It found that Israel-Palestine was hands-down the most common issue that led to a veto – and all those vetoes had been instigated by the US.

    UN security council vetoes.
    UN security council



    Read more:
    Hard Evidence: who uses veto in the UN Security Council most often – and for what?

    So suspending Israel from the UN would appear to be a non-starter. But Hehir tells the story of the way the UN managed to circumvent the P5 and suspend South Africa in 1974 over apartheid. Having failed to get the suspension past the security council after the UK and France vetoed the move, the credentials committee of the general assembly simply refused to renew South Africa’s credentials. It remained suspended for two decades until the end of apartheid in 1994.



    Read more:
    Gaza: can the UN suspend Israel over its treatment of Palestinians? It’s complicated, but yes

    Meanwhile Israel’s assault on Gaza continues and the death toll continues to mount. Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), supported by airstrikes, continue to bombard what the IDF says are Hamas positions in the towns of Beit Lahia and Jabalia but which the Gaza health ministry say are residential buildings sheltering hundreds of civilians. On October 29, the health ministry said at least 93 people, including 25 children, were killed by an Israeli airstrike.

    Now, more than ever, it’s vital to be informed about the important issues affecting global stability. Sign up to receive our weekly World Update newsletter. Every Thursday we’ll you expert analysis of the big stories making international headlines.

    Much of the population of the north of Gaza has been evacuated south of what is known as the Netzarim corridor. Israel’s Haaretz newspaper claims that it’s part of an operation known as the “generals’ plan”, which calls for the north to be cleared of civilian residents and locked down as a military zone. This is presented as a national security measure, but Leonie Fleischmann reports that there are those who believe the military operation will be followed by an influx of Israeli settlers.

    Fleischmann points to a conference held on the Israeli side of the border with north Gaza, attended by members of Netanyahu’s Likud party as well as by several government ministers, which actively promoted the idea of settling north Gaza. Memories and historical legend mingle with ideology that holds Gaza had a Jewish population from biblical times through to 1929, when an Arab revolt killed 133 Jewish people living there and drove the rest out.

    The prospect of a land grab is clearly exercising minds at the UK foreign office. UK ambassador to the United Nations, Barbara Woodward said on October 29: “We reiterate that northern Gaza must not be cut off from the south. Palestinian civilians, including those evacuated from northern Gaza must be permitted to return. There must be no forcible transfer of Gazans from or within Gaza, nor any reduction in the territory of the Gaza Strip.”



    Read more:
    Israel’s ‘generals’ plan’ to clear Palestinians from north of Gaza could pave the way for settlers to return

    All eyes on Washington

    It’s highly unlikely that we’ll know by this time next week who has prevailed in the US presidential election. But the Middle East will be one of the first big ticket items on the Resolute desk.

    The issue has already proved to be a tricky one for Kamala Harris. Her support base is deeply divided on the issue, with large numbers of Democrats – particularly young people, as well as Muslims and black voters – unsettled by her perceived part in the Biden administration’s “steadfast” support for Israel over the past four years.

    It’s hard to tell whether these voters consider that the people of Gaza would fare any better under a Trump White House. But Natasha Lindstaedt and Faten Ghosn believe that Netanyahu’s continuing aggression in Gaza may well play out in the Republican contender’s favour.



    Read more:
    How the Middle East conflict could influence the US election – and why Arab Americans in swing states might vote for Trump

    Meanwhile, to guide us through how the two candidates are likely to approach the big foreign policy issues, we can turn to Garret Martin of the Transatlantic Policy Center at the American University in Washington.



    Read more:
    On foreign policy, Trump opts for disruption and Harris for engagement − but they share some of the same concerns

    World Update is available as a weekly email newsletter. Click here to get our updates directly in your inbox.

    – ref. World Update: how Israel’s relations with the UN hit rock bottom – https://theconversation.com/world-update-how-israels-relations-with-the-un-hit-rock-bottom-242632

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    January 25, 2025

  • MIL-Evening Report: In Norway, students get grades for their behaviour – could this work in Australia?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Stephen Dobson, Professor and Dean of Education and the Arts, CQUniversity Australia

    Student behaviour is one of the biggest issues facing Australian schools. A survey of Queensland teachers earlier this year found “managing student behaviour” was the main thing taking their time away from teaching.

    Along with students talking out of turn, using their phones or not paying attention, there are regular reports of students being violent and abusive towards teachers. Australian classrooms are rated among the “least favourable” for discipline in the OECD.

    Amid a push to include more classroom management training for teachers, what other approaches could we look at to improve behaviour?

    What happens in Norway?

    For several decades Norwegian school children have been assessed twice a year on their sense of personal order (being punctual, well-prepared and following up on homework) and social behaviour (showing care and respect for others).

    In some schools this might involve following rules against throwing snowballs, eating in class or leaving school grounds.

    Until Year 8, students receive comments and then they also get a grade (good, quite good or not so good).

    Teachers in all subjects report to the child’s home base teacher who calculates an average, noting any poor examples of poor personal order and social behaviour. The overall report is shared with the student and parents receive a copy.

    The goal, as specified in Norway’s Education Act, is to ensure a good and safe school environment and “social learning”. This means learning to behave around others through observing, modelling and imitating the behaviours of others.

    This is on top of learning knowledge and skills.

    Norwegian students can be graded on whether they follow rules about snowball throwing.
    Maria Sbytova/Shutterstock

    Does it work?

    Norwegian society takes these grades seriously. It has been part of the Norwegian schooling system since 1939.

    Research on teachers and students describe it as a valued tool for dealing with students who disrupt the learning environment in the classroom.

    Even when young adults apply for jobs after university or vocational study, employers can be interested in the grade received for order and behaviour at school. Students and their teachers are aware it can indicate trustworthiness and employability.

    A not uncommon story repeated by Norwegian parents to their teenage children is “if you have a record of behaving poorly or arriving late at school it doesn’t bode well whether you want to work on a construction site, in an office or on a hospital ward”.

    There are Norwegian critics of this approach. Some researchers argue behaviour grades can sometimes say more about who are the “teachers’ favourites”.

    But despite some limited trials to refine Norway’s behaviour grading, there are currently no plans to remove it.

    What about Australia?

    There is some precedence for reporting on behaviour in Australia.

    For example, Queensland public schools report about effort and behaviour against a five-point scale: excellent, very good, satisfactory, needs attention and unacceptable.

    But assessment criteria and evidence for the reporting of student effort and behaviour seems to be a more subjective appraisal than reporting against other standards in the curriculum.

    Some Australian schools already report on aspects of student behaviour.
    Monkey Business Images/ Shutterstock

    School is about more than maths and reading

    Schools can teach students more than academic knowledge or vocational skills.

    And while addressing behaviour in schools is complex (and will not be solved by any single thing), reporting on behaviour could provide a regular opportunity for Australian teachers, schools and parents to reflect on how a students is progressing.

    Grading students could make students more accountable for how they interact with their peers and their teachers.

    It could also help build their understanding of what is acceptable, not just in the classroom but in the community more broadly. For example, if there are specific rules about how you speak to others, whether you are safe in the playground and respectful in the classroom.

    This type of social learning is important, because it can help teach students to be inclusive and responsible towards others. It can also help to create a safer school environment for all students and staff.

    At the moment, there is a general requirement in the Australian Curriculum to teach students social and emotional skills across all subjects.

    But it is up to state and territory education authorities to work out if and how students are assessed about this. This includes any reasonable adjustments for students with disability or other special needs.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. In Norway, students get grades for their behaviour – could this work in Australia? – https://theconversation.com/in-norway-students-get-grades-for-their-behaviour-could-this-work-in-australia-239384

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    January 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA News: A Proclamation on Critical Infrastructure Security and Resilience Month,  2024

    Source: The White House

         From the energy that powers our homes to the networks that connect us and the systems that protect our health and safety, our critical infrastructure keeps our economy thriving and our communities secure.  This Critical Infrastructure Security and Resilience Month, we recommit to strengthening our country’s critical infrastructure and building an America that is safe and secure for generations to come.

         This year, I signed a National Security Memorandum to secure and enhance the resilience of United States critical infrastructure — updating the policy for the first time in a decade.  This represents the launch of a new era in protecting our infrastructure against all threats and hazards by safeguarding our strong and innovative economy and enhancing our collective resilience to disasters before they happen.  But there is more to do.  Climate change is making natural disasters more frequent, ferocious, and costly — endangering our supply chains, creating more instability for our communities, and straining the critical infrastructure Americans depend on for their livelihoods.  And we need to stay vigilant against adversaries that seek to maliciously target our critical infrastructure, including through cyberattacks.  

         To meet this moment, my Administration made a once-in-a-generation investment in our Nation’s infrastructure — creating an opportunity to build in resilience to all hazards upfront and by design.  Through my American Rescue Plan, Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Inflation Reduction Act, and CHIPS and Science Act, we are investing billions of dollars to secure and bolster our infrastructure.  That includes improving our electric grid so that people can maintain power in any situation, elevating roads and bridges over possible flood zones, funding community resilience programs, and more.  These investments have not only helped to protect Americans — they have benefited our economy, creating jobs and new possibilities for our communities.  At the NATO summit this year, I announced an arrangement with Canada and Finland to collaborate on the production of polar icebreakers.  The partnership will advance United States economic and national security interests by strengthening our shipbuilding and industrial capacity while simultaneously opening up new trade routes and pushing back against foreign aggression and bolstering our international alliances.  This year, I also announced a United States Port Security Initiative to reverse our dependence on foreign manufactured port equipment.

         Ensuring our Nation is resilient in the face of threats also means working with other nations around the globe to build better, stronger, and more sustainable infrastructure.  At the G7 Summit in June, I was proud to announce the historic progress we have made with our Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment.  This initiative will strengthen United States national and economic security for Americans at home and enable sustainable economic growth for partner countries.  To date, we have mobilized $60 billion to create high-quality global infrastructure.  That comes on top of our work with the European Union and African heads of state to develop the Lobito Corridor as well as our work with the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Zambia to expand regional and global trade markets through the Port of Lobito in Angola.  We continue to pursue opportunities to expand our investments across Africa and around the world, including the Indo-Pacific, Central Asia, the Middle East, and the Western Hemisphere.  Investments like these create more shared opportunities, prosperity, and security for everyone.

         Across the Nation, America is writing the greatest comeback story we have ever known — people are putting shovels in the ground, founding new businesses, and creating hope for entire communities.  It is more important now than ever before that we remain vigilant against any threats that seek to undermine our collective security and prosperity. 

         During Critical Infrastructure Security and Resilience Month, we recommit to safeguarding and strengthening our Nation’s critical infrastructure to save lives and allow our Nation to continue doing what it does best:  creating new possibilities.

         NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR., President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim November 2024 as Critical Infrastructure Security and Resilience Month.  I call upon the people of the United States to recognize the importance of protecting our Nation’s infrastructure and to observe this month with appropriate measures to enhance our national security and resilience.

         IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirty-first day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-four, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-ninth.

                                   JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Arrest of the environmental activist Paul Watson – E-001660/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    EU law does not apply to the requested extradition in the case at issue, as neither the EU nor Denmark have concluded bilateral agreements on extradition with Japan.

    In line with its Article 51(1), the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the EU is addressed to Member States only when they are implementing EU law.

    In situations such as the present one, where there is no link with the implementation of EU law, it is for Member States, including their courts, to ensure that fundamental rights are effectively respected and protected, in accordance with their national legislation and international human rights obligations, including the European Convention on Human Rights.

    The right to protest at sea is considered an internationally lawful use of the sea and thus an exercise of the flag State’s freedom of navigation under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. The protest shall remain peaceful and should not threaten human life, the marine environment or property.

    The EU and its Member States maintain a firm stance against whaling and uphold the International Whaling Commission’s (IWC) moratorium on commercial whaling.

    Within the IWC, the EU and its Member States that are Party to the International Convention for the regulation of Whaling (ICRW) promote cooperation to ensure an effective international regulatory framework for the conservation and management of whales.

    The aim is to ensure a significant improvement in the conservation status of whales and bring all whaling operations by IWC members under IWC control.

    For countries that are not parties to the ICRW, the EU has consistently voiced strong concerns over any whaling activities and will continue to use all diplomatic channels to engage with these countries and discourage such practices.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    January 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – Confirmation hearing of EU Commissioner-designate Jessika Roswall – Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety

    Source: European Parliament

    Commissioner-designate Jessika Roswall © European Commission

    On 5 November, the confirmation hearing of Commissioner-designate for Environment, Water Resilience, and a Competitive Circular Economy Jessika Roswall (Sweden) will take place.

    The confirmation hearing will be led by ENVI. IMCO, ITRE, and AGRI committees are invited to participate in the hearing. It is expected to last three hours from 18:30 to 21:30 pm. ENVI Members will have the opportunity to question the Commissioner-designate on a variety of priority issues including, for instance, the need to develop a European Water Resilience Strategy to address water efficiency, scarcity, and pollution while considering the unique challenges faced by individual Member States. Another topic likely to come up is the Circular Economy Act and the challenge of creating market demand for secondary raw materials and establishing a single market for waste. The hearing will be the basis for the coordinators of the political groups in the committees responsible to assess whether the Commissioner-designate is qualified both to be a member of the College of Commissioners and to carry out the specific tasks assigned to her.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    January 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Boozman Convenes 2024-2025 Arkansas Congressional Youth Cabinet

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas – John Boozman
    LITTLE ROCK, Ark. –– U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) launched the eighth year of his Congressional Youth Cabinet on Tuesday at the Old State House Museum in Little Rock. The meeting brought together 114 high school juniors who were selected from public, private, charter and homeschool students across the state for their involvement and leadership in their communities.
    “The Congressional Youth Cabinet benefits Arkansas students and families as well as their communities by promoting a healthy public policy dialogue and developing the next generation of leaders in our state. I am pleased to welcome this group of bright young people to contribute their ideas and experiences as we explore legislative solutions to the issues that interest them most,” Boozman said. “Their enthusiasm for enhancing their own understanding of civic engagement and helping shape the future of our state and country is inspiring.”

    Senator Boozman and Congressional Youth Cabinet participants in Little Rock.
    The Congressional Youth Cabinet is a non-partisan program that gives students insight and experience with the legislative process. The students will attend meetings throughout the year and work in teams to select and research national issues. In the spring, the students will present their policy recommendations to the senator.
    Click here for more photos from the CYC kick-off.
    The following students were selected to participate in the Congressional Youth Cabinet for the 2024-2025 school year:
    1st Congressional District

    Jack Coleman – Mountain Home
    Mark Gregory Green – Harrison
    Lindsay Dunsing – Alpena
    Luke Wilkins – Batesville
    Penelope Jackson – Melbourne
    Natalie Rodriguez – Cabot
    Ella Curry – Alpena
    Suraya Tennison – Alpena
    Sara Hinson – Bergman
    Kayla Thorndike – Cabot
    Adam Stanisor – Cabot
    Bryce Veasman – Cabot
    Kaitlyn Carmical – Cabot
    Jeremy Jason – Lake City
    Andrew Boots – Jonesboro
    Spencer May – Jonesboro
    Sam Vaught – Wynne

    Christian Boykin – Earle
    Ajiah Parker – Earle
    Aryanna Perry – Earle
    Jada Maples – Earle
    Lucas White – Manila
    Kera Fesperman – Marion
    Penelope Marie Salas – Marion
    Gabrielle Weathers – Lepanto
    Harlynn Robertson – Jonesboro
    Deven Isbell – Jonesboro
    William Crader – Jonesboro
    Bentley McCoy – Clarendon
    Sam Sabbatini – Hazen
    Hailey Nichols – Wynne
    Derek Lately Jr. – Earle
    Zavion Maples – Earle
    Kialynn Mitchell – Earle

    2nd Congressional District

    Claira Tittle – Searcy
    Landon Hillman – Jacksonville
    Eva Harrell – Maumelle
    Yusuf Taha Guven – Little Rock
    Jayden Branch – Jacksonville
    Garrett Fisher – Greenbrier
    Fatimah Jabbar – North Little Rock
    Zachary Tancinco – Searcy
    Canadee Mosley – Conway
    Jil Patel – Jacksonville

    Luis Denilso Calderon – Little Rock
    Katharine Wekly – Conway
    Savannah Shelley – Little Rock
    Gregory Lin – Searcy
    Grabiela Valadez-Rizo – Little Rock
    Lisandro Isai Salas – Little Rock
    Ashlynn Pecanty – Maumelle
    Damian Morales – Little Rock
    David Salinas – Bryant
    Ethan Bolton – Jacksonville
    Sophie Swiney – Bradford

    3rd Congressional District

    Schuyler Henehan – Fort Smith
    Robinson Skaggs – Bentonville
    Cole Kessman – Fayetteville
    Kyndall Richey – Bentonville
    Manvitha Narasimhan – Bentonville
    Evalyn Clark – Bentonville
    Lily Cate Caldwell – Bentonville
    Matthew Velasquez-Amaya – Fort Smith
    Preston Thai – Bentonville
    Khant Sin – Fayetteville
    Evangelina Hernandez – Fort Smith
    Grayson Proctor – Lavaca
    Adrian Gonzalez – Lavaca
    Sydney Turner – Fayetteville
    Lydia Parsley – Springdale
    Terri Michelle Turner – Fort Smith
    Alee Thongprachanh – Fort Smith
    Colt Hood – Greenland

    Caroline Sanders – Bentonville
    Sullivan Shepard – Rogers
    Oakley Allen – Fort Smith
    Weston Arnett – Greenwood
    Jadyn Patterson – Bentonville
    Saqib Memon – Fayetteville
    Sarah Amor – Fort Smith
    Clara Hibbard – Mountainburg
    Drake Norris – Fort Smith
    Madelyn Maxey – Fort Smith
    Aubree Stewart – Springdale
    Aneeka Srivastava – Bentonville
    Nidhi Nair – Bentonville
    Grace Dickinson – Tontitown
    Tatum Grace Loe – Fort Smith
    Nathan Barney – Bentonville
    Jude Alfaouri – Fayetteville
    Claire Hassler – Fort Smith
    Hannah Elliott – Greenwood

    4th Congressional District

    Dana Liu – Russellville
    Ian Warnick – Russellville
    Peyton Gustave Blasé – Ozark
    David Culver – Ozark
    Sydnie Herriage – Ozark
    Elizabeth Harrison – Russellville
    Mallory Cloud – Russellville
    Audrey Rogers – Russellville
    Tristan Marrufo – DeQueen
    Kyle Williamson – DeQueen
    Miley Byler – DeQueen

    Isabel Rivas – Russellville
    Hannah Grace Skinner – Texarkana
    Christian Hunter – Arkadelphia
    Yasmine Sakr – Hot Springs
    Mary Lopez-Furlong – Hot Springs
    Tucker Arnold – Hot Springs
    Heather Atchley – Sheridan
    Madilynn Stuffle – Hot Springs
    Alexandria Evans – White Hall
    Blake Levi Jimerson – Sheridan
    Carson Brody Lyons – Sheridan

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 25, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Economics: DG Okonjo-Iweala encourages members to continue advancing trade and development work

    Source: World Trade Organization

    DG Okonjo-Iweala acknowledged the progress made in supporting greater integration of LDCs into global trade, but emphasized that much more remains to be done, and that today’s dynamics around trade offer new opportunities to do so. “Challenges are mounting, though trade has been resilient. There are also opportunities to integrate LDCs into global trade and we should not let these opportunities pass us by. Let’s work together to ensure results,” she said.

    DG Okonjo-Iweala pointed to the ongoing efforts on exploring a way forward on agriculture negotiations. She also noted that 86 members have ratified the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies and invited members who have not done so to complete the ratification process as soon as possible.

    Around 70 delegates from LDCs and their development partners participated in the event. They examined ways to revitalize the WTO’s trade and development discussions. They also explored opportunities and challenges LDCs face in joining global supply chains, participating in digital trade and facilitating the green transition.

    The General Council Chair, Ambassador Petter Ølberg of Norway, noted members’ interests in reinvigorating the work of the WTO’s Committee on Trade and Development and in making Aid for Trade, including technical assistance, more useful to address the challenges of today. He also referred to the ongoing discussions on industrial policy. “Today’s South-South Dialogue is particularly timely in paving the way towards a successful development retreat next year,” he said.

    The Coordinator of the LDC Group, Ambassador Kadra Ahmed Hassan of Djibouti, said: “Our dialogue brings members together to explore what more can be done for greater integration of LDCs into global trade, and what we can collectively achieve for the multilateral trading system.” She recognized the need to support greater participation of LDCs in global supply chains.

    “Implementation of trade facilitation measures, digitalization of import and export transactions are among the factors that can help LDCs grasp opportunities in global supply chains,” she said. She also highlighted the need for continued support to LDCs to help them develop digital ecosystems, become more resilient to extreme weather events and adjust to trade-related climate measures.

    Ambassador Chenggang Li of China said: “China has always been committed to the development dimensions of WTO work. We are encouraged by the development outcomes from MC13 and committed to working with all members to deliver more pragmatic development outcomes for MC14.”

    Representing one of the key pillars of China’s LDCs and Accessions Programme, the South-South Dialogue on LDCs and Development aims to strengthen LDCs’ participation in the multilateral trading system. There are currently 45 LDCs, of which 37 are WTO members and five are in the process of accession.

    More information on the event is available here.

    Share

    MIL OSI Economics –

    January 25, 2025
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