Category: Tourism

  • MIL-OSI China: Top legislator holds talks with Italy’s Senate president

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    Zhao Leji, chairman of the National People’s Congress Standing Committee, holds talks with Italy’s Senate President Ignazio La Russa in Beijing, capital of China, March 24, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Zhao Leji, China’s top legislator, held talks with Italy’s Senate President Ignazio La Russa in Beijing on Monday.

    Zhao, chairman of the National People’s Congress Standing Committee, said that key to the healthy and steady development of China-Italy relations is the commitment of both sides to mutual respect, seeking common ground while shelving differences, and pursuing win-win cooperation.

    China appreciates Italy’s adherence to the one-China principle and is willing to tap into cooperation potential in shipbuilding, aerospace and new energy, Zhao said, adding that cooperation in the fields of culture, art, tourism and education should also be strengthened.

    He called for increased exchange between the NPC and Italy’s parliament within bilateral and multilateral frameworks.

    He said China is ready to work with the EU to use the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties as an opportunity to promote the sustained, steady and sound development of China-EU relations, and hopes Italy will continue to play a positive role in this regard.

    He said companies from all over the world, including those from Italy, are welcome to seize cooperation opportunities in and grow alongside the Chinese economy.

    La Russa said that Italy and China can work together to make new contributions to world peace and stability. Italy hopes to expand cooperation in the fields of the economy, trade, science, technology and culture to promote the continuous development of bilateral relations and the sound, steady development of EU-China relations.

    He added that Italy’s Senate is willing to take on closer exchanges with China’s NPC. 

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Construction begins on Twelve Apostles Visitor Experience Centre

    Source: Workplace Gender Equality Agency

    The new Twelve Apostles Precinct Redevelopment is starting to take shape, with construction on the Visitor Experience Centre now well underway.

    The world-class facility is the focus of the Albanese and Allan Labor Government’s $126 million Twelve Apostles Precinct Redevelopment and will be a gateway to Shipwreck Coast, protecting and enhancing the region’s iconic landscape and beauty.

    Part of the Geelong City Deal, the redevelopment will include a new Visitor Experience Centre, bus parking, car parking for hundreds of cars, landscaping, and new road infrastructure and upgrades.

    The centre will feature retail and hospitality spaces, to be decided in consultation with industry, as well as exhibitions, office space and a rooftop lookout with sweeping views of the Shipwreck Coast.

    The VEC will also teach visitors about the area’s rich history of shipwrecks and maritime impacts, and the geomorphology of this iconic Australian landmark.

    Kane Constructions is the head contractor for the redevelopment, which is expected to be completed at the end of 2026.

    Building on the Government’s partnership with the Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation (EMAC), who is the Traditional Owner group for the area, the redevelopment includes a new Welcome Garden which will celebrate the community’s cultural and environmental values.

    Construction of the Visitor Experience Centre is expected to provide employment for the equivalent of up to 90 full-time positions during the redevelopment, and up to 50 ongoing jobs upon opening.

    The redevelopment project also delivers the Private Sector Business Enablement Fund (PSBEF), designed to help fund underlying infrastructure to support private sector investment in the Shipwreck Coast and Great Ocean Road regions.

    The redevelopment will make it safer and easier to enjoy the area’s stunning natural assets, draw domestic and international visitors, and encourage visitors to stay longer, transforming a day visit into nightly stays in the Great Ocean Road and Shipwreck Coast regions.

    The Twelve Apostles Precinct Redevelopment is part of the Geelong City Deal – a partnership between all three levels of government that is revitalising the city and regional economy while encouraging people to spend more time in the region.

    For more information on the Geelong City Deal and precinct visit: infrastructure.gov.au/territories-regions-cities/cities

    Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Regional Development and Local Government, Kristy McBain MP:

    “The Twelve Apostles is one of the most visited natural attractions in Australia, welcoming almost two million visitors each year and rising.

    “It’s an exciting time for the Shipwreck Coast as we work together with the Victorian Government and local councils to continue making the region an amazing place to live, work and visit.”

    Quote attributable to Victorian Minister for Regional Development Jaclyn Symes:

    “It’s so exciting to see work begin on this transformational project, which will make this internationally loved and iconic Victorian landscape better for the more than two million visitors annually.

    “The ongoing economic benefit to the local communities will also continue to make the Great Ocean Road an incredible place to live, stay and enjoy.”

    Quote attributable to Victorian Minister for Development Victoria and Precincts Harriet Shing:

    “We’re proud to deliver this project, which will provide better facilities and services to accommodate the growing number of visitors to the iconic Twelve Apostles.”

    Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Corangamite, Libby Coker MP:

    “It’s really fantastic to see the Visitor Experience Centre project progressing – because it will be a real game-changer for the Great Ocean Road experience.

    “We want visitors to stay longer and explore more of our amazing coastline – to ensure we continue supporting local businesses and growing our economy, which is exactly what this project will support.”

    Quote attributable to Victorian Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney:

    “It’s fantastic to see construction underway for the new Visitor Experience Centre. This new facility will greatly improve the experience of tourists, while also creating ongoing jobs in the region.”

    Quotes attributable to Corangamite Shire Council CEO, David Rae:

    “This redevelopment is a game-changer for our region, enhancing the visitor experience while preserving the natural beauty of the Twelve Apostles and the Shipwreck Coast.

    “The investment in world-class infrastructure will not only boost tourism but also create local jobs and drive economic growth for our communities.”

    Quotes attributable to Kane Constructions Project Director, Sam Birdseye:

    “The new Visitor Experience Centre and supporting infrastructure will be enjoyed by millions of people in the coming years and is such an important piece of Victorian tourism infrastructure. We feel privileged to be involved in this landmark project.”

    Quotes attributable to Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation CEO Marcus Clarke:

    “The commencement of construction marks a major step toward bringing the design to life — one that reflects Kirrae Whurrong Culture and our shared history while harmonising with the natural landscape.

    “It’s about sharing Land, Sky, and Sea Country stories, giving everyone the opportunity to learn and experience.”

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI Economics: ADB President Discusses PRC Reforms

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    BEIJING, PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA (25 March 2025) — Asian Development Bank (ADB) President Masato Kanda met with Premier Li Qiang during his first official visit to the People’s Republic of China (PRC), discussing the government’s reform efforts as it transitions to high-quality development.

    “The PRC’s ongoing transition to high-quality development is crucial to the country’s inclusive growth and lasting prosperity,” said Mr. Kanda. “But the path forward is not without challenges. It demands a careful rebalancing of the economy, with efforts to boost domestic demand and household consumption through rising incomes. It also requires actions to stabilize the property sector with demand-side and supply-side measures, and to empower the private sector by providing a level playing field.”

    During his visit, Mr. Kanda toured ADB-supported project sites in Jiangsu Province, including the Dafeng Milu Deer National Nature Reserve and the Yancheng Rare Birds National Nature Reserve, both part of the UNESCO-listed Yancheng Wetlands. These initiatives exemplify successful biodiversity conservation and sustainable economic development, combining ecological protection with economic empowerment through sustainable ecotourism, community resilience, and environmental stewardship.

    Mr. Kanda also held meetings with National Development and Reform Commission Chairman Zheng Shanjie and Finance Minister Lan Fo’an, discussing further cooperation on fiscal sustainability, debt management, regional knowledge sharing, and strategies for sustained economic growth. In addition, he addressed the China Development Forum, noting that accelerating the pace of rebalancing will be critical for the PRC’s transition to high-quality development.

    ADB is a leading multilateral development bank supporting sustainable, inclusive, and resilient growth across Asia and the Pacific. Working with its members and partners to solve complex challenges together, ADB harnesses innovative financial tools and strategic partnerships to transform lives, build quality infrastructure, and safeguard our planet. Founded in 1966, ADB is owned by 69 members—49 from the region.

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI China: China to improve quality of ‘silver economy’

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    An elderly couple watch wedding dress photos shot by their nursing home in Changzhou, east China’s Jiangsu province, Jan. 9, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    China will redouble its efforts to improve the quality and expand the capacity of its “silver economy,” namely economic activities related to the country’s large elderly population, Vice Minister of Civil Affairs Tang Chengpei said on Monday.

    These efforts aim to create a positive cycle combining economic development and the improvement of people’s livelihoods, Tang said in his remarks at the China Development Forum 2025, which was held from Sunday to Monday.

    The 10-year period from 2025 to 2035 is an important time window for China to respond proactively to the challenge of population aging, Tang said.

    He outlined efforts to promote the integrated development of the elderly care industry and industries such as culture, tourism, health, sports and domestic services, to expand the scope and scenarios of elderly care services, and to advance home renovation projects offering more elderly-friendly facilities, among other efforts.

    Efforts will also go into making public spaces and e-commerce platforms more senior-friendly, boosting the standardization and supervision of relevant products and services for the elderly, and advancing research and policy support for the development of the “silver economy,” he said.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s top legislator holds talks with Italy’s Senate president

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Zhao Leji, chairman of the National People’s Congress Standing Committee, holds talks with Italy’s Senate President Ignazio La Russa in Beijing, capital of China, March 24, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Zhao Leji, China’s top legislator, held talks with Italy’s Senate President Ignazio La Russa in Beijing on Monday.

    Zhao, chairman of the National People’s Congress Standing Committee, said that key to the healthy and steady development of China-Italy relations is the commitment of both sides to mutual respect, seeking common ground while shelving differences, and pursuing win-win cooperation.

    China appreciates Italy’s adherence to the one-China principle and is willing to tap into cooperation potential in shipbuilding, aerospace and new energy, Zhao said, adding that cooperation in the fields of culture, art, tourism and education should also be strengthened.

    He called for increased exchange between the NPC and Italy’s parliament within bilateral and multilateral frameworks.

    He said China is ready to work with the EU to use the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties as an opportunity to promote the sustained, steady and sound development of China-EU relations, and hopes Italy will continue to play a positive role in this regard.

    He said companies from all over the world, including those from Italy, are welcome to seize cooperation opportunities in and grow alongside the Chinese economy.

    La Russa said that Italy and China can work together to make new contributions to world peace and stability. Italy hopes to expand cooperation in the fields of the economy, trade, science, technology and culture to promote the continuous development of bilateral relations and the sound, steady development of EU-China relations.

    He added that Italy’s Senate is willing to take on closer exchanges with China’s NPC. 

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Khada Valley Livelihood Restoration Program

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    Transcript

    New 23km Kvesheti-Kobi road in Georgia has been constructed to enhance trade flow, road safety, and provide economic opportunities for the Khada Valley population.

    Alongside the road construction that will provide a year-round access to the valley, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) initiated the Khada Valley Livelihood Restoration and Improvement Program.

    Kamel Bouhmad
    Former Deputy Country Director (2021-2024)
    ADB Georgia Resident Mission

    The purpose was really not to wait until the road is fully built, but to put together an assistance package for the local population so they can start developing skills and getting ready for a new reality when the infrastructure will be there.

    Salome Tsurtsumia
    Deputy Chairman
    Roads Department of Georgia

    The future perspective of the valley’s development is tourism and to attract more tourists, it’s important to have the relevant knowledge and experience in producing organic products.

    ADB engaged the UN Food and Agriculture Organization to help local farmers improve agricultural production.

    Anuki Natsvlishvili
    Veterinary and Food Safety Specialist
    UN Food and Agriculture Organization

    The needs assessment showed us that most farmers have one or two cows, and the milk quality is extremely low. The cheeses were made from unpasteurized milk. For vegetable producers, 02:14 they were not using irrigation systems, or doing manual composting. And for honey producers, farmers wanted to receive information about food safety and legislation. In the beginning, we only started working with a few farmers from Kvesheti and Arakhveti communities. But new farmers started to show up and we started working in several new communities.

    Tariel Karelidze
    Community Liaison Officer
    ADB Consultant

    Our farmer beneficiaries, in addition to theoretical and practical knowledge, received animal food supplements, selected agricultural equipment based on their activities, and established demonstration plots. There are huge expectations for the Kvesheti-Kobi road in the community. They anticipate more tourists and better market access.

    Ketevan Zakaidze
    Farmer from Arakhveti Village

    I have three cows and I make cheese and Matsoni. I learned a lot of new things, like how to get more cheese from milk, how to take care for cows to avoid Mastitis, how to produce safe products to keep ourselves healthy.

    Zurab Beniaidze
    Beekeper from Benian-Begoni Village

    We learned many new things. For example, it was very interesting to learn about acid-based pesticides for bee ticks. We also received uniforms which are essential for beekeeping. I have already started using them.

    The one-year program trained 72 farmers from the Khada Valley and nearby villages.

    Tea Papuashvili
    Project Officer (Infrastructure)
    ADB Georgia Resident Mission

    We have observed that from one training session to another, the number of people kept increasing. This was really a sign of success, a sign that people’s trust and interest were there to learn more and to develop their skills and improve their living conditions.

    Lesley Bearman Lahm
    Country Director
    ADB Georgia Resident Mission

    With this road built, the local population will be provided with unlimited year-round access to their homes and lands, enabling them to expand agriculture production and reap financial gains from increased tourism in the valley.

    MIL OSI Global Banks

  • MIL-OSI China: China to improve quality, expand capacity of ‘silver economy’

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    An elderly couple watch wedding dress photos shot by their nursing home in Changzhou, east China’s Jiangsu province, Jan. 9, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    China will redouble its efforts to improve the quality and expand the capacity of its “silver economy,” namely economic activities related to the country’s large elderly population, Vice Minister of Civil Affairs Tang Chengpei said on Monday.
    These efforts aim to create a positive cycle combining economic development and the improvement of people’s livelihoods, Tang said in his remarks at the China Development Forum 2025, which was held from Sunday to Monday.
    The 10-year period from 2025 to 2035 is an important time window for China to respond proactively to the challenge of population aging, Tang said.
    He outlined efforts to promote the integrated development of the elderly care industry and industries such as culture, tourism, health, sports and domestic services, to expand the scope and scenarios of elderly care services, and to advance home renovation projects offering more elderly-friendly facilities, among other efforts.
    Efforts will also go into making public spaces and e-commerce platforms more senior-friendly, boosting the standardization and supervision of relevant products and services for the elderly, and advancing research and policy support for the development of the “silver economy,” he said.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI China: Spring scenery of east China’s Zhejiang

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

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI China: China to improve quality, expand capacity of ‘silver economy’ for elderly

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

    BEIJING, March 24 — China will redouble its efforts to improve the quality and expand the capacity of its “silver economy,” namely economic activities related to the country’s large elderly population, Vice Minister of Civil Affairs Tang Chengpei said on Monday.

    These efforts aim to create a positive cycle combining economic development and the improvement of people’s livelihoods, Tang said in his remarks at the China Development Forum 2025, which was held from Sunday to Monday.

    The 10-year period from 2025 to 2035 is an important time window for China to respond proactively to the challenge of population aging, Tang said.

    He outlined efforts to promote the integrated development of the elderly care industry and industries such as culture, tourism, health, sports and domestic services, to expand the scope and scenarios of elderly care services, and to advance home renovation projects offering more elderly-friendly facilities, among other efforts.

    Efforts will also go into making public spaces and e-commerce platforms more senior-friendly, boosting the standardization and supervision of relevant products and services for the elderly, and advancing research and policy support for the development of the “silver economy,” he said.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: $258 million for critical Northern Territory highways

    Source: Workplace Gender Equality Agency

    The Albanese Government is building the Northern Territory’s future, today announcing a $200 million investment to upgrade the Stuart Highway. 

    The Stuart Highway is the major highway running north to south through the heart of Australia. Extending approximately 2700 kilometres, it is a critical corridor for freight and tourism, connecting Darwin to Katherine and Alice Springs, and on to South Australia. 

    This funding will go towards the progressive duplication of priority sections of the Stuart Highway between Darwin and Katherine, to enhance freight movement and improve road safety.  

    This new project brings the Australian Government’s total investment into the Stuart, Victoria and Barkly Highways to nearly $780 million.

    Construction is expected to begin in mid-2026 and finish by mid-2028.

    The Albanese Government is also investing a further $58.3 million towards the Carpentaria Highway Upgrade, taking the total Australian Government commitment to $203.3 million. 

    This additional funding will allow the upgrade of a further 35 kilometres of the Carpentaria Highway. 

    The project, which is being delivered in partnership with the Northern Territory Government, will deliver upgrades to around 175 kilometres of the Carpentaria Highway, commencing at the Stuart Highway. 

    This will improve the efficiency, safety and accessibility of the Carpentaria Highway from the Borroloola township in the east, through the Beetaloo Sub-basin to the Stuart Highway in the west.

    These projects add to a number of projects already committed to the Stuart Highway, including the $171.8 million Northern Territory National Network Highway Upgrades (Phase 2), which is delivering works such as pavement strengthening, widening and resurfacing, on priority sections of the Stuart, Victoria and Barkly Highways. 

    The Australian Government’s total commitment to the Northern Territory under the Infrastructure Investment Program over the next 10 years, from 2025-26, is $2.8 billion. 

    Quotes attributable to Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:

    “I’m proud to be part of a Government which is building this country’s future, investing in critical freight and transport corridors like the Stuart Highway. 

    “This will be transformational for both residents and visitors of Darwin and Katherine, making journeys smoother, safer and more enjoyable. 

    “This is the transport spine of Australia, and we’re investing $200 million to get it in good nick.” 

    Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Lingiari Marion Scrymgour: 

    “This investment in Stuart Highway will ease congestion, increase safety and improve travel times and connectivity across the territory for locals and tourists.

    “The Australian Government remains committed to ensuring the future growth and sustainability of remote communities and regional centres across the Northern Territory.” 

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: INVESTOR SUMMIT SPEECH

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Ka nui te mihi kia kotou, kia ora, and good morning everyone. 
    To those of you visiting us from overseas, can I extend a very special welcome to each and every one of you. 
    Welcome to New Zealand, welcome to the best country on planet Earth, and welcome to our stunning Auckland waterfront. 
    And to all those Kiwis I see in the room today, thank you for being here and showcasing some of the extraordinary businesses and talent that exists in our business community. 
    And it was a real pleasure to meet many of you informally last night, and my Ministers and I are really looking forward to spending much more time with you over the next two days. 
    I meant it before when I said this is the best country on planet Earth. 
    Because what makes New Zealand so very special and unique is our Kiwi Spirit which is exemplified in the qualities, character, and attitude of New Zealanders.  
    For us, it‘s about resilience and determination, ingenuity and innovation, adventure and exploration, creativity and practical problem-solving, humility and mateship, fairness, and a deep care for our land and community. 
    It’s no surprise that growing up in New Zealand, our heroes are Kiwi trailblazers and pioneers, people who have dared to push boundaries, challenge the status quo, and leave a lasting mark on the world.
    From our early Māori explorers navigating vast oceans guided by the stars, to modern-day adventurers like Sir Edmund Hillary conquering Everest.   
    To Ernest Rutherford, the father of nuclear physics, who split the atom and revolutionised our understanding of science. To Rocket Lab’s Peter Beck and his groundbreaking developments in rocket technology launching satellites into space. 
    And Kate Shepperd, who secured New Zealand women the right to vote – the very first country in the world to do so. 
    And our phenomenal athletes who show the world what determination and talent can achieve. Or the stunning world of The Lord of the Rings created by one of our most creative storytellers – Peter Jackson.
    We may be a small country, but time and again, we have proven that size is no barrier to greatness. From the peaks of Everest to the frontlines of social progress, from scientific breakthroughs to arts and sporting legends, Kiwis have led the way.
    And we’re living in an age when New Zealand has never been closer to the action – right in the middle of the booming Indo-Pacific with direct connections to Asia and North America. 
    With the weight of global economic activity shifting from the Atlantic to the Pacific and digital connections breaking down barriers, New Zealand has never been closer to the world.  
    But for all our spirit and hard work, we also know New Zealand can’t do it alone. 
    We’re a small country of around five million people like Ireland, Singapore, and Denmark. 
    Just as those countries have prospered by tapping into larger markets, building stronger international connections, and fostering trade and investment, New Zealand needs to do the same. 
    If we want our country to thrive, we need to work even harder to compete on the world stage – and, in particular, to unlock the commercial partnerships that will supercharge the next generation of growth in the New Zealand economy. 
    That means the Government will work more with Industry to deliver much of the infrastructure and projects that will be showcased over the next two days. 
    Many of your organisations will have extensive experience delivering outstanding world-class infrastructure to national and regional governments worldwide.
    I want New Zealand to seize every opportunity to partner with the private sector and deliver a fresh generation of infrastructure investment to unleash economic growth.  
    But it’s not just infrastructure. 
    I want to develop closer ties between outstanding New Zealanders and their companies based here, with investors and organisations based offshore.  
    I also want to unlock more partnerships between indigenous Iwi Māori organisations and commercial investors, whether they are based in Auckland or Abu Dhabi, Dunedin or Denver.  
    I want start-ups based in Christchurch and Hamilton fighting for seed capital in San Francisco and London – winning their share of global influence and success. 
    Breaking perceptions about the New Zealand economy is critical to that. 
    Yes, we have globally competitive dairy, film, and tourist industries, but our space industry is also operating at the cutting edge, ranking fourth in the world for launches behind the US, China, and Russia. 
    Over the next two days, you will hear more about our plan to unleash growth and ensure New Zealand reaches its full potential. 
    We want you to join us on that journey, and we will have several opportunities on display. 
    That will include the opportunity to deliver infrastructure in partnership with the Crown – both in the form of immediate opportunities and the pipeline of projects going forward. 
    It will include working with Iwi Māori organisations to grow their businesses as they make a multigenerational investment in their people. 
    It will include opportunities in a range of specific sectors where we believe New Zealand has a unique role to play and where we expect the Government to focus its efforts on growth. 
    In the very short term, we have made good economic progress in our first year in Government, although there’s still a long way to go. 
    New Zealand is now in the early stages of a cyclical economic recovery, with growth beginning to pick up and unemployment expected to peak around its current rate. 
    Inflation has fallen and now sits comfortably anchored within the Reserve Bank’s target band at 2.2%. 
    Annual tourism expenditure was up 23% last year, and services and manufacturing activity have returned to growth after extended periods of contraction. 
    Business confidence is at around its highest level in a decade. As confidence has risen, retail trade has picked up, and growth is expected to rise, hitting 3% in 2026. 
    So, there’s now cause for optimism in the New Zealand economy that the recovery is underway and better days lie ahead. 
    For policymakers here in New Zealand, that poses an opportunity – not just to watch the economic recovery, but to shape it. 
    Step-changing economic productivity, lifting incomes, creating jobs, and unleashing the investment New Zealand needs to become much more prosperous.  
    Which brings us to today. 
    I know the only way we will raise incomes, lift New Zealanders’ standard of living, and fund the quality public services we rely on is by unlocking more investment, more innovation, and more entrepreneurship.
    Having broken inflation last year, our collective focus has now turned to shaping the economic recovery – ensuring we take every possible step to lift New Zealand’s economic performance. 
    That renewed energy and effort forms the backdrop of this Summit. 
    My Government is working around the clock to make New Zealand an outstanding place to do business. 
    But before I highlight some of those reforms and my economic priorities as Prime Minister, I want to make a more fundamental point about New Zealand as an investment destination. 
    New Zealand has been and will continue to be a poster child for social and political stability in a more volatile and challenging world. 
    That reputation is long-standing, but in challenging times, it has come into sharper focus. 
    We stand up for our values and live by them, too. That means respecting civil liberties, private property and private life, and the democratic and social institutions that underpin them. 
    We consistently advocate for a rules-based international order that allows small countries like New Zealand to thrive. Free trade isn’t just an idea in New Zealand; it’s the bedrock of our prosperity. 
    For farmers and growers living in rural New Zealand, it has allowed a modern economic miracle: the opportunity to not just collectively operate one of the most efficient agricultural sectors in the world but to live in some of the most stunning parts of the world while they do it. 
    Finally, we might disagree sometimes – but we’re not disagreeable. Over the next two days, you will hear from various political leaders.
    You will hear from senior Ministers representing each of the three political parties in our Coalition Government, as well as Barbara Edmonds, the Labour Party’s Opposition Finance Spokesperson.  
    It’s pretty normal in New Zealand for political parties to disagree with each other – often loudly, and sometimes even with my own Coalition colleagues. 
    But I believe the broad political representation that is here demonstrates that most New Zealanders share the same motivations – higher incomes and more financial freedom, quality public services, and a long-standing belief that our best days lie ahead of us. 
    When you look at all the tension, volatility, and strife in the world today, I think that makes us pretty special, and a very attractive destination for anyone looking to take shelter from the global storm. 
    Political stability, however, is not an excuse for a lack of ambition. 
    You should be under no illusions about my commitment to the Government’s growth agenda and the reforms we are pushing through to unleash investment in the New Zealand economy. 
    Last month, Minister for Economic Growth Nicola Willis published our Government’s Going for Growth Agenda – we have copies for you here – which outlines a range of actions we are taking to get the New Zealand economy moving and realising its vast potential. 
    Each of those actions fits into one of five pillars we have identified as critical to lifting economic growth and improving New Zealanders’ standard of living:

    Developing talent,
    Encouraging innovation, science, and technology,
    Introducing competitive business settings,
    Promoting global trade and investment,
    And delivering infrastructure for growth. 

    Across each of those pillars, we have Ministers from across the Government working day and night to drive through reform – in transport,  tourism, aquaculture, construction, advanced aviation, mining, energy, agriculture, and horticulture. 
    Over the next two days, you will hear much more about our work programme in those areas that will play a critical role in the next phase of New Zealand’s growth story – with more information on a series of specific investable propositions available in the private sector. 
    Among that reform programme are some significant changes designed to achieve a profound step change in the New Zealand economy that I would like to touch on today. 
    For a start, we are clearing away decades of broken planning law – brick by brick. 
    We have introduced the Fast Track regime, which streamlines the consenting process for projects that are regionally and nationally significant. 
    In short, instead of seeking different permissions under different laws, under Fast Track, it’s all done in one place, with a faster process and fewer hurdles to getting underway. 
    That regime is now up and running, and I know a number of projects have already submitted applications since it became operational last month. 
    In short, if you want to build a wind farm, a highway, a quarry, hundreds of new homes, or any other regionally or nationally significant projects, we are busting down the doors to make it happen faster and cheaper. 
    149 projects have already been listed in legislation, but nothing prevents new projects from applying for referral into the scheme. 
    And it doesn’t stop with Fast Track. 
    Further planning reforms are also on the way, including a total replacement of the Resource Management Act. 
    We are also eliminating the barriers to more significant investment in energy and generation to unleash abundant, affordable energy. 
    The impact of unaffordable and unreliable energy on economic growth has been brought into the spotlight in recent years following the Russian invasion of Ukraine. 
    Industries in Europe that had historically relied on access to low-cost natural gas came under tremendous strain, putting pressure on growth and household incomes. 
    In New Zealand, we are lucky that 85% of electricity generation is already renewable, thanks to decades of investment in hydro, wind, solar, and geothermal.  
    But we can’t risk falling short in the years to come. So, as a Government, we are tearing down the barriers to fresh energy investment. That means introducing more permissive rules for renewables.
    But it also means ending restrictions on offshore oil and gas exploration – and providing certainty for market participants by confidently saying that gas has to be part of New Zealand’s energy mix going forward.  
    At the same time, we are making it easier to invest in New Zealand from offshore.  
    That started last year, with fresh directives to our Overseas Investment Office, which slashed processing times and made applications more predictable. 
    Today, an application for offshore investment is approved within 18 days on average, compared to 28 days prior to those changes.
    And two weeks ago, we announced upcoming changes to legislation designed to further improve the timeliness and reliability of our overseas investment regime. 
    We also announced just last month that, from April 1 this year, individuals who invest at least $5 million in New Zealand will be eligible for an Active Investor Visa, with a pathway to residency after three years. 
    I know that for many of you from offshore in this room, that will be positive news. But as a New Zealander, I have to say it’s an even bigger deal for the sharp, ambitious Kiwis here and all around the country, who are hungry for capital and hungry to grow. 
    We know the impact foreign investment has on local businesses. It’s not just the capital investment; it’s the skills, connections, and linkages into new markets. 
    That translates into higher wages, more jobs, more money in Kiwi wallets, and more resilient businesses that make an even greater contribution in the community. 
    We need more of it, especially for a small country hungry to grow like New Zealand, which is why I have invited many of you here today. 
    I believe New Zealand’s best days are ahead of us—and we can make them happen if we get serious about partnering with commercial expertise to solve some of our biggest economic challenges and seize on the huge economic opportunities ahead of us. 
    Helping to end New Zealand’s infrastructure deficit through private sector partnership.
    Fattening out our capital markets and opening up new sectors for growth.
    Strengthening our connections to the world, enhancing technology, lifting productivity, and opening new markets for our products and services. 
    Over the next two days, you will hear from a range of leaders—cabinet Ministers, business leaders, and Iwi Māori leaders—who I know are committed to responding to our challenges and opportunities. 
    There will also be plenty of time across both days for closer interactions and to discuss the opportunities and challenges that you are confronting in your own businesses. 
    While you’re here, please also enjoy our hospitality and culture. We’re not just here to do business—we’re here to build relationships and make the case for New Zealand as an outstanding country to invest in, to visit, and to establish roots in. 
    So once again, and on behalf of the New Zealand Government and the New Zealand people, welcome to this year’s Summit. 
    I’m excited to get stuck in – and I can’t wait to hear more from you over the next two days about your approach to business and the difference you could make for growth, investment, jobs, and opportunity for us here in New Zealand. 
    Thank you. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Development and Promotion of Tourist Sites

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 24 MAR 2025 4:05PM by PIB Delhi

    Development and promotion of tourist destinations and products, is undertaken by the respective State Government/UT Administration. The Ministry of Tourism complements the efforts of States/UTs by developing and promoting various tourism products of the country, including religious and cultural tourism through various schemes and initiatives.

    The Ministry of Tourism through its central sector schemes of ‘Swadesh Darshan (SD)’ and ‘Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive (PRASHAD)’ complements the efforts of tourism infrastructure development in the country by extending financial assistance to the State Governments/UT Administrations.

    The Ministry of Tourism had undertaken a third party impact assessment of Swadesh Darshan (Integrated Development of Theme-Based Tourist Circuits) through National Productivity Council in 2019. The study states that ‘Swadesh Darshan Scheme’ has been able to give a fillip to livelihood opportunities and create employment for the local communities in construction phase.

    The Ministry of Tourism after a comprehensive review has now revamped this scheme as Swadesh Darshan 2.0 with the objective to develop sustainable and responsible tourism destinations.

    The Swadesh and PRASHAD Schemes aim to boost local economies and create jobs by developing infrastructure, marketing destinations, and supporting community-based tourism.

    Ministry of Tourism has also been providing financial assistance to State Governments/ UT Administrations for organizing fairs/festivals and tourism related events under its Domestic Promotion & Publicity including Hospitality (DPPH) Scheme.

    Ministry launched the ‘Chalo India’ campaign during its participation in World Tourism Market held in London in November 2025 to encourage the Indian diaspora to become Incredible India ambassadors and encourage their non-Indian friends to visit India. As an incentive under this initiative gratis e-tourist visa for foreign visitors traveling to India is granted, the program is valid till 31 March 2025.

    Ministry of Home Affairs has relaxed the Protected Area Permit (PAP)/Restricted Area Permit (RAP) for a further period of 5 Years i.e. till 31.12.2027 for the identified Islands in the Union Territory of Andaman & Nicobar Islands.

    Ministry of Home Affairs has issued relaxation of PAP/RAP for a further period of 5 years beyond 31.12.2022 in the states of Manipur, Mizoram and Nagaland.

    This information was given by Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

    ***

    Sunil Kumar Tiwari

    tourism4pib[at]gmail[dot]com

    (Release ID: 2114405) Visitor Counter : 67

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Wedding Tourism

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 24 MAR 2025 4:05PM by PIB Delhi

    Development and promotion of tourist destinations and products, including wedding tourism is undertaken by the respective State Government/Union Territory Administration. The Ministry complements the efforts of States/UTs by promoting various tourism products of the country, including wedding tourism through various initiatives.

    The Ministry of Tourism launched a promotional campaign “India says I do” which aims at showcasing India as a premier wedding destination on the global stage. The campaign aims to leverage digital marketing, website, social media campaigns, influencers, offline and online activations.

    The Ministry of Tourism in collaboration with Department of Tourism, Government of Rajasthan and Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) organized the ‘Wed in India’ expo alongside the Great India Travel Bazaar at Jaipur on 5thMay 2024. The event was attended by wedding planners from India and abroad, State Governments, media, international and domestic tour operators and event management companies.

    Registration of marriages is dealt by the local administrations in various States and Union Territories.

    This information was given by Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

    ***

     

    Sunil Kumar Tiwari

    tourism4pib[at]gmail[dot]com

    (Release ID: 2114406) Visitor Counter : 76

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Promotion of Cruise and Adventure Tourism

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 24 MAR 2025 4:02PM by PIB Delhi

    Development and promotion of tourist destinations and products, including adventure tourism is undertaken by the respective State Government/Union Territory (UT) Administration. The Ministry complements the efforts of States/UTs by developing and promoting various tourism products of the country, including cruise tourism through various schemes and initiatives.

    The Ministry of Tourism through its central sector schemes of Swadesh Darshan (SD)’, Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive (PRASHAD) and Assistance to Central Agencies for Tourism Infrastructure Development extends financial assistance to the State Governments/UT Administrations for tourism infrastructure development in the country.

    The list of projects sanctioned for Coastal Circuit and Cruise Project under Swadesh Darshan Scheme are given at Annexure-I. The list of projects sanctioned for infrastructure development at Ports and Waterways under the scheme of Assistance to Central Agencies are given at Annexure-II.

    In order to provide impetus to the development of adventure tourism in the country, National Strategy for adventure tourism has been prepared.

    The Strategy focuses on developing adventure destinations, promoting safety in adventure tourism, skill development, capacity building and marketing.

    This information was given by Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

    ***

     

    Sunil Kumar Tiwari

    tourism4pib[at]gmail[dot]com

     

     

    List of Projects sanctioned for Coastal Circuit and Cruise Project under Swadesh Darshan Scheme

    S.

    No.

    Name of State

    Year

    Project Name

    Amount Sanctioned

    1.

    Andhra Pradesh

    2014-15

    Developmentof Circuit at Kakinada – Hope Island – Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary – Passarlapudi – Aduru – S Yanam – Kotipally

    67.83

    2.

    Andhra Pradesh

    2015-16

    Developmentof         Nellore, Pulikat Lake, Ubblamadugu water falls, Nelapattu Bird          Sanctuary, Mypadu Beach, Ramatheertham

    49.55

    3.

    Puducherry

    2015-16

    Development of Dubrayapet, Arikamedu China Veerampattinam, Chunnabmar, Nallavadu, Manapet, Kalapet, French Quarter, Tamil Quarter and Yanam

    58.44

    4.

    West Bengal

    2015-16

    Development of Beach Circuit: Udaipur- Digha- Shankarpur- Tajpur- Mandarmani- Fraserganj- Bakkhlai-Henry Island

    67.99

    5.

    Maharashtra

    2015-16

    Development of Sindhudurg Coastal Circuit (Shiroda Beach, Sagareshwar, Tarkarli, Vijaydurg (Beach & Creek), Devgad (Fort & Beach), Mitbhav, Tondavali, Mocehmad and Nivati Fort).

    19.06

    6.

    Goa

    2016-17

    Development of Sinquerim-Baga, Anjuna- Vagator, Morjim-Keri, Aguada Fort and Aguada Jail.

    97.65

    7.

    Odisha

    2016-17

    Development of Gopalpur, Barkul, Satapada and Tampara.

    70.82

    8.

    Andaman & Nicobar Islands

    2016-17

    Development of Long Island-Ross Smith Island- Neil Island- Havelock Island- Baratang Island- Port Blair.

    27.57

    9.

    Tamil Nadu

    2016-17

    Developmentof         Chennai-Mamamallapuram–Rameshwaram–Kulasekaranpattinam            – Kanyakumari

    73.13

    10.

    Goa

    2017-18

    Developmentof         Rua      De Orum Creek-Don Paula-Colva – Benaulim

    99.35

    11.

    Kerala

    2018-19

    Development of Malanad Malabar Cruise Tourism Project

    57.35

     

    Total

    688.74

    *******

    ANNEXURE-II

     

     

    List of Projects sanctioned for infrastructure development at Ports and Waterways under the scheme of Assistance to Central Agencies

    S.

    No.

    States/ UTs

    Year

    Name of Projects

    Implementing Agency

    Amount sanctioned

    1.

    Tamil Nadu

    2012-13

    Cruise Passenger Facilities Centre in the existing Passenger Terminal at Chennai Port.

    Chennai Port Trust

    1724.66

    2.

    Goa

    2014-15

    Cruise Terminal Building at Mormugao Port Trust

    Mormugao Port trust

    879.04

    3.

    Kerala

    2016-17

    Development of a Walkway/ Promenade on Willingdon Island, Cochin, Kerala

    Cochin Trust Port

    901.00

    4.

    Kerala

    2016-17

    Central Financial Assistance forupgrading of Births & Backup area of Ernakulam Wharf

    Cochin Trust Port

    2141.00

    5.

    Maharashtra

    2016-17

    Central Financial Assistance to Mumbai Port Trust for Development of Kanoji Angre Lighthouse as a tourist Destination

    Mumbai Port trust

    1500.00

    6.

    Maharashtra

    2017-18

    Up-gradation /modernization to International Cruise terminal at Indira Dock, Mumbai.

    Mumbai Port Trust

    1250.00

    7.

    Goa

    2018-19

    Improvement of immigration facility and

    deepening of existing cruise berth at Mormougao

    Mormugao Port trust

    1316.40

    8.

    Kerala

    2018-19

    Developing infrastructure at Cochin Port Cruise Terminal.

    Cochin Trust Port

    120.79

    9.

    Kerala

    2018-19

    Creation of additional tourism facilities at the Cochin Port Trust Walkway

    Cochin Trust Port

    466.47

    10.

    Andhra Pradesh

    2018-19

    Construction of Cruise-cum-Coastal Cargo Terminal at  Channel berth area in Outer Harbour of Visakhapatnam Port

    Visakhapatnam Port Trust

    3850.00

    11.

    Kerala

    2019-20

    CFA for Development of Additional infrastructure in the new Cochin Port Trust Terminal

    Cochin Trust Port

    1029.70

    12.

    Goa

    2021-22

    Creation of facilities for International and Domestic Cruise Vessels at Mormugao Port, Goa by Mormugao Port Trust (MPT)

    Mormugao Port Trust

    5000.00

    13.

    Maharashtra

    2021-22

    Upgradation/ Moderni sation to International Cruise Terminal at Indira Dock, Mumbai Port Trust

    Mumbai Port Trust

    3750.00

    Total

    23929.06

     

    *******

    (Release ID: 2114401) Visitor Counter : 65

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Incredible India Content Hub

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 24 MAR 2025 4:04PM by PIB Delhi

    Development and promotion of tourist destinations and products, including religious tourism is undertaken by the respective State Government/UT Administration. The Ministry of Tourism complements the efforts of States/UTs by developing and promoting various tourism products of the country through various schemes and initiatives.

    Ministry of Tourism works closely with Ministry of Road Transport and Ministry of Civil Aviation for improving road and air connectivity to tourist destinations. Under RCS UDAN, Ministry of Tourism collaborated with Ministry of Civil Aviation and shared the Viability Gap Funding (VGF) amount for 53 tourism routes identified.

    In order to attract foreign investment in the tourism sector, 100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) is allowed under the automatic route in the tourism and hospitality industry in India, subject to applicable regulations and laws. 100% FDI is allowed in tourism construction projects, including the development of hotels, resorts and recreational facilities.

    To give fillip to private investment in tourism, three-star or higher category classified hotels located outside cities with population of more than 1 million, ropeways & cable cars and Exhibition-cum-Convention Centre Projects with minimum built-up floor area of 100,000 square metres of exclusively exhibition space or convention space or both combined, have been included in the Harmonized Master List of infrastructure sub-sectors.

    Further in Union Budget 2025-26, an announcement for inclusion of hotels located in the top 50 tourist destination sites in the country, identified for development in challenge mode, in the Harmonized Master List of infrastructure sub-sectors.

    The Ministry has launched the revamped version of Incredible India Digital Platform (IIDP) on September 27, 2024 as a comprehensive resource for travellers and stakeholders interested in exploring the country’s rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and diverse attractions. One of the new feature of the IIDP is the Incredible India Content Hub – a comprehensive digital repository, featuring rich collection of high-quality images, films, brochures, and newsletters related to tourism in India. This repository is intended for the use of a diverse range of stakeholders, including tour operators, journalists, students, researchers, film makers, authors, influencers, content creators, government officials, and ambassadors. The IIDP uses an AI-powered tool that personalizes visitor experiences by offering real-time weather updates, city exploration, and essential travel services. The portal has also partnered with several OTAs (Online Travel Agents) and Stakeholders for seamless booking of flights, hotels, cabs, and buses and tickets for ASI monuments.

    This information was given by Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

    ***

    Sunil Kumar Tiwari

    tourism4pib[at]gmail[dot]com

    (Release ID: 2114402) Visitor Counter : 59

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Measures to Curb Air Pollution in Tourism Industry

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 24 MAR 2025 4:03PM by PIB Delhi

    As informed by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Air pollution in Delhi is a collective result of multiple factors including high level of anthropogenic activities in the high-density populated areas in NCR, arising from various sectors viz. Vehicular Pollution, Industrial Pollution, Dust from Construction & Demolition Project activities, Road and Open Areas Dust, Biomass Burning, Municipal Solid Waste burning, Fires in Landfills, air pollution from dispersed sources, etc.

    During post-monsoon and winter months, lower temperature, lower mixing heights, inversion conditions and stagnant winds lead to trapping of the pollutants resulting in high pollution in the region. This is further aggravated due to the emissions from episodic events like firecrackers and stubble burning in NCR States.

    Air Quality Index is a tool for effective communication of air quality status to people in terms, which are easy to understand. It transforms complex air quality data of various pollutants into a single number (index value), nomenclature and colour.

    The web-based system is designed to provide AQI on real time basis. It is an automated system that captures data from continuous monitoring stations without human intervention, and displays AQI based on running average values. For manual monitoring stations, an AQI calculator is developed wherein data can be fed manually to get AQI value.

    The AQI values ranges from 0 to 500. There are six AQI categories, namely Good, Satisfactory, Moderately polluted, Poor, Very Poor, and Severe which are mentioned below:

    AQI Categories

    AQI value

    Good

    0–50

    Satisfactory

    51-100

    Moderate

    101-200

    Poor

    201-300

    Very Poor

    301-400

    Severe

    >400

    Various initiatives have been taken for control of pollution from different sources (transport, C&D activities, industries etc.) in Delhi-NCR, which has resulted in overall improvement in air quality. However, effectiveness of each of these actions can’t be evaluated in absolute terms as meteorological parameters like wind speed and mixing height which are variable factors also play crucial role in governing overall air quality.  Various measures taken by the Government to reduce Air Pollution in Delhi-NCR from different sources, are enclosed as Annexure-I.

    Due to the concerted efforts made by all stakeholders, gradual improvement has been observed in Delhi air quality. The number of days of Good-Moderate Air Quality Index (AQI) categories has increased to more than 200 for consecutive two years i.e. 2023 and 2024 in comparison of 110 days in 2016. Further, 2024 has recorded maximum number of days (209) in Good-Moderate AQI categories since 2016, except for COVID year 2020. The details of AQI of Delhi from 2016-2024 are enclosed as Annexure-II.

    This information was given by Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

    ***

    Sunil Kumar Tiwari

    tourism4pib[at]gmail[dot]com

    ANNEXURE-I

    Steps taken by the Government for abatement of Air Pollution in Delhi NCR:

    1. National Clean Air Programme:
    • National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) has been launched by Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) in January 2019 with an aim to improve air quality in 130 cities (non-attainment cities and Million Plus Cities) in 24 States by engaging all stakeholders.
    • There are total 06 Non-attainment cites (NACs) in Delhi NCR, out of which 03 cities – Delhi, Alwar and Noida are funded under National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) and 03 cities- Ghaziabad, Meerut and Faridabad are funded under Fifteenth Finance Commission (XV-FC).
    • City Action Plans for improvement in air quality have been rolled out for implementation in all the 06 identified cities in Delhi NCR.
    1. Regulatory Actions in Delhi-NCR:
    • Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) was formulated for Delhi-NCR to tackle the issue of sudden rise in air pollution levels. The revised GRAP was published by CAQM in December 2024 and further directions were issued for its implementation. Actions listed for different AQI levels under GRAP are invoked from time to time by a sub-committee constituted by CAQM.
    • For air pollution abatement and control in Delhi / NCR, the Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas has devised a comprehensive policy for air pollution abatement in NCR in July 2022, stipulating sector-specific action points quantifying targets along with timelines and implementation plan by various agencies in NCR States. The policy framework details sector-wise interventions, quantified targets and timelines for various sectors contributing to air pollution.
    • Directions prescribing measures for control of pollution from various sources such as implementation of RECD system/ dual fuel kits in DG sets, use of cleaner fuels in industries, shift to EV/ CNG/ BS VI diesel fuel in transport sector, implementation of dust control measures at C&D sites etc., have been issued by CAQM. Further, policy to curb air pollution in NCR has also been formulated.
    1. Measures for control of emissions from Stubble Burning in Delhi-NCR:
    • Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare (MoA&FW) in 2018 launched scheme for providing subsidy for purchase of crop residue management machinery and establishment of custom hiring centres (CHCs) in NCT of Delhi and the States of Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh for in-situ management of paddy straw. During the period from 2018-19 to 2024-25 (as on 28.02.2025), Rs. 3698.45 crores have been released by MoA&FW (Punjab – Rs. 1756.45 crores, Haryana – Rs. 1081.71 crores, Uttar Pradesh – Rs. 763.67 crores, NCT of Delhi – Rs. 6.05 Crores, ICAR- Rs. 83.35 crores & others Rs. 7.22 Crores). The states have distributed more than 3.00 lakhs machines to the individual farmers and to more than 40000 CHCs in these 4 States, which also include more than 4500 Balers & Rakes which are used for collection of straw in the form of bales for further ex-situ utilization. MoA&FW in 2023 revised guidelines under the scheme to support establishment of crop residue/paddy straw supply chain, by providing financial assistance on the capital cost of machinery and equipment.
    • An Inter-Ministerial Committee has been constituted under the chairmanship of Special Secretary, MoA&FW for convergence of scheme of Schemes/Initiatives supporting Ex-situ management of paddy straw.
    • CAQM has provided a Framework to the states concerned for control / elimination of crop residue burning and directed these to draw up detailed state-specific action plans based on the major contours of the framework. Directions have also been issued by CAQM to State Governments of Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh to strictly and effectively implement revised action plan to eliminate and control stubble burning.
    • CAQM has issued directions permitting use of PNG or biomass as industrial fuel in NCR except Delhi where only PNG is permitted as industrial fuel. CAQM has also issued directions for co-firing of 5-10% biomass with coal in thermal power plants located within 300 kms of Delhi, and, in captive power plants of industrial units located in NCR.
    • Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has framed Guidelines for grant of one-time financial support under Environment Protection Charge funds for establishment of pelletization and Torrefaction plants to promote utilisation of paddy straw. So far, 15 plants have been sanctioned with utilization capacity of 2.7 lakh tonnes of paddy straw per annum.
    • During stubble burning season of 2023 (10.11.23 onwards), 33 scientists of CPCB were deployed as flying squads for assisting CAQM in NCR and adjoining areas for intensifying monitoring and enforcement actions towards prevention of paddy stubble burning incidents in 22 districts of Punjab and 11 districts of Haryana. The flying squads coordinated with state govt/nodal officers/officers from respective districts and sent their daily report to CAQM.
    • CPCB has deployed 26 teams (in 16 districts of Punjab and 10 districts of Haryana) for the period 01st October – 30th November, 2024 to intensify monitoring and enforcement actions regarding stubble burning. These teams are coordinating with concerned authorities/ officers deployed at the district level by the State Govt. and reporting to CAQM.
    • MoA&FW had deputed 31 Central Teams, which have conducted Quality Survey work w.e.f. 1-15th September, 2024 in the States of Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh and the Teams had visited 275 manufacturers and conducted quality audit of 910 agricultural machines. Further, 10 Central Teams have conducted survey on utilization of machines in States of Punjab and Haryana during 15th October – 31st October 2024. A Team comprising members from DA&FW, CAQM and ICAR and other stakeholders had visited to the State of Punjab to witness the activities of paddy straw management on 14th November, 2024.
    1. Measures for control of vehicular emissions:
    • Directions issued by CAQM to Government of NCT of Delhi and State Governments of Haryana, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh for migration of public transport services, especially buses in NCR to cleaner modes. All state govt. bus services between Delhi and any city/town in the states of Haryana, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh to be operated only through EV /CNG/BS-VI diesel w.e.f. 01.11.2023.
    • Installation of VRS system at 3256 petrol pumps in Delhi-NCR in compliance with orders of Hon’ble Supreme Court and Hon’ble NGT.
    1. Measures for control of industrial emission:
    • Installation of Online Continuous Emission Monitoring System (OCEMS) in red category air polluting industries in Delhi-NCR
    • Industrial units in Delhi have shifted to PNG/cleaner fuels and, operational units in NCR have shifted to PNG/Biomass.
    • Directions issued for conversion of brick kilns to zig-zag technology in Delhi and NCR. Brick kilns not converted to zig-zag technology are not permitted to operate in Delhi-NCR.
    • In order to control DG set emissions, CPCB also provides funds for retrofitment/ upgradation of DG sets in Govt. hospitals in Delhi-NCR and guidelines have been issued in this regard.
    • Ban on use of pet coke and furnace oil as fuel in NCR States since October 24, 2017.
    • An approved fuel list is in force in Delhi-NCR w.e.f. 01.01.2023. Industries operating on only PNG or biomass are permitted in NCR, except for specific requirement of other fuels by specific industries owing to technical, technological and process requirements. The industries not operating on approved fuels are not allowed to operate in Delhi-NCR.
    • Stringent PM emission norms for biomass based boilers have been prescribed for compliance in NCR.
    1. Construction & Demolition (C&D) Waste:
    • Directions issued to DPCC and NCR SPCBs to enforce installation of anti-smog guns and other dust control measures at C&D sites.
    • Directions issued for setting up of a “Dust Control and Management Cell” by road owning/ maintaining/ construction agencies for monitoring and effective implementation of dust control measures in the NCR.  
    • Online monitoring mechanism (through web portal) introduced for monitoring compliance of dust mitigation measures for construction sites.
    1. Close Monitoring & Ground level implementation in Delhi-NCR:
    • 40 teams have been deputed by CPCB since December 2021, to assist CAQM, for conducting incognito inspections of air polluting industries, C&D sites, DG sets in Delhi-NCR to check implementation status of pollution control measures and compliance of other provisions of the Air (P&CP) Act,1981.

    Annexure-II

    Comparative Status of AQI- Delhi from 01 January to 31 December, 2016-2024

    Category

    Year

    2016

    2017

    2018

    2019

    2020

    2021

    2022

    2023

    2024

    2016

    2017

    2018

    2019

    2020

    2021

    2022

    2023

    2024

    No. of days

    354

    365

    365

    365

    366

    365

    365

    365

    366

    Good (0–50)

    0

    2

    0

    2

    5

    1

    3

    1

    0

    110

    152

    159

    182

    227

    197

    163

    206

     209

    Satisfactory (51–100)

    24

    45

    53

    59

    95

    72

    65

    60

    66

    Moderate (101–200)

    86

    105

    106

    121

    127

    124

    95

    145

    143

    Poor (201–300)

    120

    115

    114

    103

    75

    80

    130

    77

    70

    244

    213

    206

    183

    139

    168

    202

    159

    157

    Very Poor (301–400)

    99

    89

    72

    56

    49

    64

    66

    67

    70

    Severe (>401)

    25

    9

    20

    24

    15

    24

    6

    15

    17

    *******

    (Release ID: 2114403) Visitor Counter : 68

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE AND REGULATORY FRAMEWOR UNDER ARHCs SCHEME

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 24 MAR 2025 5:10PM by PIB Delhi

    Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) launched Affordable Rental Housing Complexes (ARHCs) as a sub-scheme of Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Urban (PMAY-U) to provide dignified living to urban migrants/poor near their workplace. This scheme is implemented through two models:

    1. Model-1: Utilizing existing Government funded vacant houses constructed under Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM) and Rajiv Awas Yojana (RAY) to convert into ARHCs through Public Private Partnership (PPP) or by Public Agencies,
    2. Model-2: Construction, Operation & Maintenance of ARHCs by Public/Private Entities on their own available vacant land.

    Beneficiaries of ARHCs are urban migrants/poor from Economically Weaker Section (EWS)/Low Income Group (LIG). They include labour, urban poor (street vendors, rickshaw pullers, other service providers etc.), industrial workers, and migrants working with market/trade associations, educational/health institutions, hospitality sector, long term tourists/visitors, students or any other persons of such category.

    Under Model-1, so far, 5,648 existing Government funded vacant houses have been converted into ARHCs in different States/Union Territories (UTs). Under Model-2, MoHUA has approved proposals for 82,273 new ARHC units in 7 States, of which 35,425 have been completed and remaining are under different stages of initiation/construction. These ARHCs provide dignified living with all civic amenities to the eligible beneficiaries at an affordable rate.  A total of ₹173.89 crore of Technology Innovation Grant (TIG) has been sanctioned, of which ₹83.26 crore has been released under ARHCs.

    As per scheme guidelines, the initial affordable rent of ARHCs is fixed by the local authority based on a local survey. Subsequently, rent is enhanced biennially by 8%, subject to a maximum increase of 20% in aggregate, over a period of 5 years, effective from the date of signing the contract. The same mechanism is followed over the entire concession period i.e. 25 years.

    As per the operational guidelines of ARHCs, various benefits/incentives were proposed by the Government to encourage proactive participation of Public/Private Entities in the construction and management of ARHCs. The operation guidelines are available at https://arhc.mohua.gov.in/filesUpload/Operational-Guidelines-of-ARHCs.pdf.

    So far, the Ministry has not conducted any assessment of ARHCs. However, based on the learning from the experiences of 9 years implementation of PMAY-U, MoHUA has revamped the scheme and launched PMAY-U 2.0 ‘Housing for All’ Mission with effect from 01.09.2024 for implementation in urban areas across the country to construct, purchase and rent a house by 1 crore additional eligible beneficiaries at affordable cost through four verticals i.e., Beneficiary Led Construction (BLC), Affordable Housing in Partnership (AHP), Affordable Rental Housing (ARH) and Interest Subsidy Scheme (ISS). ARH vertical of PMAY-U 2.0 aims to construct rental housing projects for EWS/LIG beneficiaries including migrant workers and other poor who do not want to own a house but require housing for short term basis. The scheme guidelines of PMAY-U 2.0 are available at https://pmay-urban.gov.in/uploads/guidelines/Operational-Guidelines-of-PMAY-U-2.pdf.

    The reply was given by THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HOUSING AND URBAN AFFAIRS SHRI TOKHAN SAHU in Rajya Sabha Today.

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on providing macro-financial assistance to the Arab Republic of Egypt – A10-0037/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    DRAFT EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION

    on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on providing macro-financial assistance to the Arab Republic of Egypt

    (COM(2024)0461 – C10‑0009/2024 – 2024/0071(COD))

    (Ordinary legislative procedure: first reading)

    The European Parliament,

     having regard to the Commission proposal to Parliament and the Council (COM(2024)0461),

     having regard to Article 294(2) and Article 212 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, pursuant to which the Commission submitted the proposal to Parliament (C10‑0009/2024),

     having regard to Article 294(3) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,

     having regard to the budgetary assessment by the Committee on Budgets,

     having regard to Rule 60 of its Rules of Procedure,

     having regard to the opinion of the Committee on Foreign Affairs,

     having regard to the report of the Committee on International Trade (A10-0037/2025),

    1. Adopts its position at first reading hereinafter set out;

    2. Calls on the Commission to refer the matter to Parliament again if it replaces, substantially amends or intends to substantially amend its proposal;

    3. Instructs its President to forward its position to the Council, the Commission and the national parliaments.

     

     

    Amendment  1

    Proposal for a decision

    Recital 1 a (new)

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

     

    (1a) This Decision has implications for the Union budget. Accordingly, the European Parliament’s Committee on Budgets adopted a budgetary assessment, which forms an integral part of Parliament’s mandate for negotiations.

    Amendment  2

    Proposal for a decision

    Recital 2 a (new)

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

     

    (2a) On 17 March 2024, Egypt and the European Union jointly decided to upgrade their relations to a strategic and comprehensive partnership, based on the values of equity and mutual respect and trust in order to strengthen their common stability, peace and prosperity.

    Amendment  3

     

    Proposal for a decision

    Recital 3

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    (3) In line with the Partnership Priorities, the EU and Egypt are committed to ensuring accountability, the rule of law, the full respect of human rights, fundamental freedoms, promoting democracy, gender equality and equal opportunities as constitutional rights of all their citizens. These commitments contribute to the advancement of the partnership and to Egypt’s sustainable development and stability. The increased and constructive engagement between the EU and Egypt in the last period has opened the path to more meaningful dialogue on human rights related issues. The subcommittee on Political Matters, Human Rights and Democracy, International and Regional issues of December 2022 and the Association Committee of May 2023 provided the institutional platforms to exchange on an array of human rights issues, which the EU would like to continue and build on. The improvement of the human rights situation in Egypt will have a positive impact on EU-Egypt relations.

    (3) In line with the Partnership Priorities, the EU and Egypt are committed to ensuring accountability, the rule of law, the full respect of human rights, fundamental freedoms, promoting democracy, gender equality and equal opportunities as constitutional rights of all their citizens. These commitments contribute to the advancement of the partnership and to Egypt’s sustainable development, good governance and socio-economic stability. The increased and constructive engagement between the EU and Egypt in the last period has opened the path to more meaningful dialogue on human rights related issues. The subcommittee on Political Matters, Human Rights and Democracy, International and Regional issues of December 2022 and the Association Committee of May 2023 provided the institutional platforms to exchange on an array of human rights issues, which the EU would like to continue and build on. The steady improvement of the human rights situation and women’s rights and fundamental freedoms due to an active, coherent and proactive policy in that area in Egypt will have a positive impact on EU-Egypt relations.

    Amendment  4

    Proposal for a decision

    Recital 3 a (new)

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

     

    (3a) Egypt’s economic and financial situation has been marked by several macroeconomic adjustment programmes implemented under the aegis of the IMF in exchange for credit facilities (USD 12 billion from 2016 to 2019 and USD 3 billion in 2022, rising to USD 8 billion in March 2024);

    Amendment  5

     

    Proposal for a decision

    Recital 5

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    (5) The EU recognises Egypt’s key role for regional security and stability. Terrorism, organised crime and conflicts are common threats against our security and the social fabric of nations across both sides of the Mediterranean. Therefore, the EU and Egypt have a common interest in strengthening cooperation highlighted in the Partnership Priorities, in full compliance with international law, including human rights and international humanitarian law.

    (5) The EU recognises Egypt’s key role for regional security and stability. Terrorism, organised crime, such as human trafficking, irregular migration, and conflicts, are common threats against our security and the social fabric of nations across both sides of the Mediterranean. Similarly, energy is also one of the most pressing challenges facing countries on both sides of the Mediterranean. The Energy Cooperation between the Union and Egypt in the Eastern Mediterranean could not only offer a source of economic prosperity for the region but also strengthen energy security for the Union by diversifying energy supplies and encouraging regional collaboration. In that respect, the East Mediterranean Gas Forum serves as a platform of positive regional cooperation. Therefore, the EU and Egypt have a common interest in strengthening cooperation highlighted in the Partnership Priorities, in full compliance with international law, including the International Law of the Sea, human rights and international humanitarian law.

    Amendment  6

     

    Proposal for a decision

    Recital 6

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    (6) Recalling the geo-political challenges, such as the consequences of Hamas terrorist attacks across Israel on 7 October 2023 as well as the conflict in Sudan, and the strategic importance of Egypt as the largest country in the region and a pillar of stability for the whole Middle East, the Union is embarking on concluding a Strategic and Comprehensive partnership with Egypt as outlined in the Joint Declaration.

    (6) Recalling the global and regional geo-political challenges, such as the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, resulting from the aftermath of the Hamas terrorist attacks across Israel on 7 October 2023, the escalating tensions in the Horn of Africa and the safety of navigation in the Red Sea and the Suez Canal, as well as migratory pressure from the conflict in Sudan, uncertainties in Syria, the instability in Libya, Egypt’s responsibilities as a host to large numbers of refugees and migrants and the strategic importance of Egypt as the largest country in the region and a pillar of stability for the whole Middle East, the Union has embarked on a Strategic and Comprehensive partnership with Egypt as outlined in the Joint Declaration.

    Amendment  7

     

    Proposal for a decision

    Recital 7

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    (7) The objective of the Strategic and Comprehensive Partnership with Egypt is to elevate the EU-Egypt political relations to a strategic partnership and enable Egypt to fulfil its key role of providing stability in the region. The partnership aims to contribute to support Egypt’s macroeconomic resilience and enable the implementation of ambitious socio-economic reforms in a manner that complements and reinforces the reform process foreseen under the IMF programme for Egypt. As outlined in the Joint Declaration, the partnership will address a wide set of policy measures clustered across six pillars of intervention, namely: political relations; economic stability; investment and trade; migration; security and law enforcement cooperation; demography and human capital.

    (7) The objective of the Strategic and Comprehensive Partnership with Egypt is to elevate the EU-Egypt political relations to a strategic partnership and enable Egypt to fulfil its key role of providing stability in the region, the Middle East and North Africa. The partnership aims to contribute to support Egypt’s macroeconomic resilience and enable the implementation of ambitious socio-economic reforms in a manner that complements and reinforces the reform process foreseen under the IMF programme for Egypt. As outlined in the Joint Declaration, the partnership will address a wide set of policy measures clustered across six pillars of intervention, namely: political relations; economic stability; investment and trade; irregular migration and mobility in respect of human rights; security and law enforcement cooperation; demography and human capital. Such Strategic and Comprehensive Partnership should be developed in line with initiatives at Union and Member State level such as the Global Gateway and the Mattei Plan for Africa.

    Amendment  8

     

    Proposal for a decision

    Recital 8

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    (8) Underpinning the partnership will be a financial package of EUR 7.4 billion consisting of short- and longer-term support for the necessary macro-fiscal and socio-economic reform agenda, as well as increased amounts available to support investments in Egypt and targeted support for the implementation of the different strategic priorities. Part of the support package is the EU MFA package of up to EUR 5 billion in loans, composed of two MFA operations, one short-term for up to EUR 1 billion and a regular, more medium-term one for up to EUR 4 billion, financial instruments, such as guarantees and blending instruments, aimed at mobilising public and private investments with the objective of generating substantial new investments. This will be complemented by programmes to support specific priorities under the Strategic and Comprehensive Partnership through individual projects and technical assistance implemented under the Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument2 .

    (8) Underpinning the partnership is a financial package of EUR 7.4 billion consisting of short- and longer-term support for the necessary macro-fiscal and socio-economic reform agenda, as well as increased amounts available to support investments in Egypt and targeted support for the implementation of the different strategic priorities, particularly in terms of irregular migration and renewable energy. Part of the support package is the EU MFA package of up to EUR 5 billion in concessional loans, composed of two MFA operations, one short-term for up to EUR 1 billion and a regular, more medium-term one for up to EUR 4 billion, financial instruments, such as guarantees and blending instruments, aimed at mobilising public and private investments that benefit the majority of Egyptians with the objective of generating substantial new investments. This will be complemented by programmes to support specific priorities under the Strategic and Comprehensive Partnership through individual projects and technical assistance implemented under the Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument2.

    __________________

    __________________

    2 Established by Regulation (EU) 2021/947 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 9 June 2021 establishing the Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument – Global Europe, amending and repealing Decision No 466/2014/EU and repealing Regulation (EU) 2017/1601 and Council Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 480/2009 (OJ L 209, 14.6.2021, p. 1)

    2 Established by Regulation (EU) 2021/947 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 9 June 2021 establishing the Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument – Global Europe, amending and repealing Decision No 466/2014/EU and repealing Regulation (EU) 2017/1601 and Council Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 480/2009 (OJ L 209, 14.6.2021, p. 1)

    Amendment  9

     

    Proposal for a decision

    Recital 9

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    (9) Egypt’s macro-fiscal situation has faced significant challenges and deteriorated substantially over recent months, as external pressures have intensified and public debt has increased further, with substantial downside risks to the economic outlook persisting. The repercussions of Russia’s war on Ukraine and of Hamas terrorist attacks against Israel have led to protracted capital outflows and lower foreign currency receipts, notably due to sharply falling income from tourism and Suez Canal proceeds. This is particularly challenging amid Egypt’s difficult fiscal situation, which is characterised by constant fiscal deficits and high and growing debt to GDP ratios.

    (9) Egypt’s macro-fiscal situation has faced significant challenges and deteriorated substantially over recent months, as external pressures have intensified and public debt has increased further, with substantial downside risks to the economic outlook persisting. The repercussions of Russia’s war on Ukraine and the geopolitical tensions and conflicts in the Middle East have led to protracted capital outflows and lower foreign currency receipts, notably due to sharply falling income from tourism, Suez Canal proceeds and gas production and loss of confidence among foreign investors. This is particularly challenging amid Egypt’s difficult fiscal situation, which is characterised by constant fiscal deficits and high and growing debt to GDP ratios. Despite that difficult external context, in 2024 Egypt was able to implement reforms, such as the unification of exchange rates and making progress in tightening monetary policy, to help preserve macroeconomic stability.

    Amendment  10

    Proposal for a decision

    Recital 12

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    (12) Egypt re-engaged with the IMF in early 2024 and reached a staff-level agreement on 6 March 2024 on a revamped Extended Fund Facility programme scaled up to USD 8 billion. The new programme is expected to be adopted by IMF Executive Board decision in March 2024 and aims to address the areas of 1) credible exchange rate flexibility, 2) sustainable tightening of monetary policy, 3) fiscal consolidation to preserve debt sustainability, 4) a new framework to rein in infrastructure spending, 5) providing adequate levels of social spending to protect vulnerable groups, and 6) implementation of the State Ownership Policy and reforms to level the playing field. Together with the staff level agreement’s signature, Egypt also enacted a flexibilisation of the exchange rate, and raised the central bank’s key policy rate by a sizeable 600 basis points, in line with the IMF programme’s priorities.

    (12) Egypt re-engaged with the IMF in early 2024 and reached a staff-level agreement on 6 March 2024 on a revamped Extended Fund Facility programme scaled up to USD 8 billion. Negotiations at expert level on the fourth revision of Egypt’s economic reform programme were concluded in December 2024. The new programme aims to address the areas of 1) credible exchange rate flexibility, 2) sustainable tightening of monetary policy, 3) fiscal consolidation to preserve debt sustainability, 4) a new framework to rein in infrastructure spending, 5) providing adequate levels of social spending to protect vulnerable groups from the cost of living and energy price rises, and 6) implementation of the State Ownership Policy and reforms to level the playing field by promoting the development of the private sector in the economy. Together with the staff level agreement’s signature, Egypt also enacted a flexibilisation of the exchange rate, and raised the central bank’s key policy rate by a sizeable 600 basis points, in line with the IMF programme’s priorities.

    Amendment  11

    Proposal for a decision

    Recital 16

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    (16) Given that there is still a significant residual external financing gap in Egypt’s balance of payments over and above the resources provided by the IMF and other multilateral institutions, the Union macro-financial assistance to be provided to Egypt is, under the current exceptional circumstances, considered to be an appropriate response to Egypt’s request for support to the economic stabilisation, in conjunction with the IMF programme. The Union’s macro-financial assistance package, including the MFA of up to EUR 4 billion under this proposal, would support the economic stabilisation and the structural reform agenda of Egypt, supplementing resources made available under the IMF’s financial arrangement.

    (16) Given that there is still a significant residual external financing gap in Egypt’s balance of payments over and above the resources provided by the IMF and other multilateral institutions and regional partners, the Union macro-financial assistance to be provided to Egypt is, under the current exceptional circumstances, considered to be an appropriate response to Egypt’s request for support to the economic stabilisation, in conjunction with the IMF programme. The Union’s macro-financial assistance package, including the MFA of up to EUR 4 billion under this proposal, would support the economic stabilisation and the structural reform agenda of Egypt, supplementing resources made available under the IMF’s financial arrangement.

    Amendment  12

     

    Proposal for a decision

    Recital 19

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    (19) The Commission should ensure that the Union’s macro-financial assistance is legally and substantially in line with the key principles, objectives and measures taken within the different areas of external action and with other relevant Union policies.

    (19) The Commission should ensure that the Union’s macro-financial assistance is legally and substantially in line with the key principles, objectives and measures taken within the different areas of external action and with other relevant Union policies, including those relating to democracy, human rights and rule of law, in line with Article 2 of the EU-Egypt Association Agreement.

    Amendment  13

     

    Proposal for a decision

    Recital 22

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    (22) A pre-condition for granting the Union’s macro-financial assistance to Egypt should be that the country continues to make concrete and credible steps towards respecting effective democratic mechanisms – including a multi-party parliamentary system – and the rule of law, and guarantees respect for human rights. In addition, the specific objectives of the Union’s macro-financial assistance should strengthen the efficiency, transparency and accountability of the public finance management systems, the governance and supervision of the financial sector in Egypt and promote structural reforms aimed at supporting sustainable and inclusive growth, decent employment creation and fiscal consolidation. The fulfillment of the pre-condition and the achievement of the specific objectives should be regularly monitored by the Commission services and the European External Action Service.

    (22) Macro-financial assistance should remain an economic instrument. However, a pre-condition for granting the Union’s macro-financial assistance to Egypt should be that the country continues to make concrete, credible and tangible steps towards respecting and strengthening effective democratic mechanisms – including a multi-party parliamentary system – and the rule of law, and guaranteeing respect for human rights. In addition, the specific objectives of the Union’s macro-financial assistance should strengthen the efficiency, transparency and accountability of the public finance management systems, the governance and supervision of the financial sector in Egypt and promote structural reforms aimed at supporting sustainable and inclusive growth, decent employment creation and fiscal consolidation. The fulfillment of the pre-condition and the achievement of the specific objectives should be regularly monitored by the Commission services and the European External Action Service.

    Amendment  14

    Proposal for a decision

    Recital 23

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    (23) In order to ensure that the Union’s financial interests linked to the Union’s macro-financial assistance are protected efficiently, Egypt should take appropriate measures relating to the prevention of, and fight against, fraud, corruption and any other irregularities linked to the assistance. In addition, a loan agreement to be concluded between the Commission and the Egyptian authorities should contain provisions authorising European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) to carry out investigations, including on-the-spot checks and inspections, in accordance with the provisions and procedures laid down in Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 883/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council3 and Council Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2185/964 , the Commission and the Court of Auditors to carry out audits and the European Public Prosecutor’s Office to exercise its competences with regard to the provision of the Union’s macro-financial assistance during and after its availability period.

    (23) It is essential to underline that Egypt has to meet the necessary economic pre-condition for eligibility. Egypt has demonstrated its solvency and financial stability, which have been verified by the Commission. However, in order to ensure that the Union’s financial interests linked to the Union’s macro-financial assistance are protected efficiently. Egypt should take appropriate measures relating to the prevention of, and fight against, fraud, corruption and any other irregularities linked to the assistance. In addition, a loan agreement to be concluded between the Commission and the Egyptian authorities should contain provisions authorising European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) to carry out investigations, including on-the-spot checks and inspections, in accordance with the provisions and procedures laid down in Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 883/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council3 and Council Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2185/964 , the Commission and the Court of Auditors to carry out audits and the European Public Prosecutor’s Office to exercise its competences with regard to the provision of the Union’s macro-financial assistance during and after its availability period.

    __________________

    __________________

    3 Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 883/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 September 2013 concerning investigations conducted by the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) and repealing Regulation (EC) No 1073/1999 of the European Parliament and of the Council and Council Regulation (Euratom) No 1074/1999 (OJ L 248, 18.9.2013, p. 1).

    3 Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 883/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 September 2013 concerning investigations conducted by the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) and repealing Regulation (EC) No 1073/1999 of the European Parliament and of the Council and Council Regulation (Euratom) No 1074/1999 (OJ L 248, 18.9.2013, p. 1).

    4 Council Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2185/96 of 11 November 1996 concerning on-the-spot checks and inspections carried out by the Commission in order to protect the European Communities’ financial interests against fraud and other irregularities (OJ L 292, 15.11.1996, p. 2).

    4 Council Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2185/96 of 11 November 1996 concerning on-the-spot checks and inspections carried out by the Commission in order to protect the European Communities’ financial interests against fraud and other irregularities (OJ L 292, 15.11.1996, p. 2).

    Amendment  15

     

    Proposal for a decision

    Recital 26

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    (26) The Union’s macro-financial assistance should be managed by the Commission. In order to ensure that the European Parliament and the Council are able to follow the implementation of this Decision, the Commission should regularly inform them of developments relating to the assistance and provide them with relevant documents.

    (26) The Union’s macro-financial assistance should be managed by the Commission. In order to ensure that the European Parliament and the Council are able to follow the implementation of this Decision, the Commission should regularly inform them with an annual report of developments relating to the assistance and on respect for effective democratic mechanisms, as per the pre-conditions referred to in this Decision, and provide them with relevant documents.

    Amendment  16

     

    Proposal for a decision

    Recital 28

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    (28) The Union’s macro-financial assistance should be subject to economic policy conditions, to be laid down in a Memorandum of Understanding. In order to ensure uniform conditions of implementation and for reasons of efficiency, the Commission should be empowered to negotiate such conditions with the Egyptian authorities under the supervision of the committee of representatives of the Member States in accordance with Regulation (EU) No 182/2011. Under that Regulation, the advisory procedure should, as a general rule, apply in all cases other than as provided for in that Regulation. Considering the potentially important impact of assistance of more than EUR 90 million, it is appropriate that the examination procedure be used for operations above that threshold. Considering the amount of the Union’s macro-financial assistance to Egypt, the examination procedure should apply to the adoption of the Memorandum of Understanding, and to any reduction, suspension or cancellation of the assistance.

    (28) The Union’s macro-financial assistance should be subject to sustainable economic policy reforms, to be laid down in a Memorandum of Understanding. In order to ensure uniform conditions of implementation and for reasons of efficiency, the Commission should be empowered to negotiate such conditions with the Egyptian authorities under the supervision of the committee of representatives of the Member States in accordance with Regulation (EU) No 182/2011. Under that Regulation, the advisory procedure should, as a general rule, apply in all cases other than as provided for in that Regulation. Considering the potentially important impact of assistance of more than EUR 90 million, it is appropriate that the examination procedure be used for operations above that threshold. Considering the amount of the Union’s macro-financial assistance to Egypt, the examination procedure should apply to the adoption of the Memorandum of Understanding, and to any reduction, suspension or cancellation of the assistance.

    Amendment  17

     

    Proposal for a decision

    Article 1 – paragraph 1

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    1. The Union shall make macro-financial assistance of a maximum amount of up to EUR 4 billion available to Egypt (“the Union’s macro-financial assistance”), with a view to supporting Egypt’s economic stabilisation and a substantive reform agenda. The release of the Union’s macro-financial assistance is subject to the approval of the Union budget for the relevant year by the European Parliament and the Council. The assistance shall contribute to covering Egypt’s balance of payments needs as identified in the IMF programme.

    1. The Union shall make macro-financial assistance in the form of concessional loans of a maximum amount of up to EUR 4 billion available to Egypt (“the Union’s macro-financial assistance”), with a view to supporting Egypt’s socio-economic stabilisation and a substantive structural reform agenda, as well as its responsibility to mitigate the effects of irregular migration and managing migratory flows. The release of the Union’s macro-financial assistance is subject to the approval of the Union budget for the relevant year by the European Parliament and the Council. The assistance shall contribute to covering Egypt’s balance of payments needs as identified in the IMF programme.

    Amendment  18

    Proposal for a decision

    Article 1 – paragraph 3 a (new)

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

     

    3a. Macro-financial assistance may, as far as possible, contribute to the Union’s growth and economic resilience.

    Amendment  19

     

    Proposal for a decision

    Article 2 – paragraph 1

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    1. A pre-condition for granting the Union’s macro-financial assistance shall be that Egypt continues to make concrete and credible steps towards respecting effective democratic mechanisms – including a multi-party parliamentary system – and the rule of law, and guarantees respect for human rights.

    1. A pre-condition for granting the Union’s macro-financial assistance shall be that Egypt continues to make concrete and credible steps towards respecting and strengthening effective democratic mechanisms – including a multi-party parliamentary system – and the rule of law, and continues to make efforts in order to guarantee respect for human rights.

    Amendment  20

     

    Proposal for a decision

    Article 2 – paragraph 2

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    2. The Commission services and the European External Action Service shall monitor the fulfilment of this pre-condition throughout the life-cycle of the Union’s macro-financial assistance.

    2. The Commission services and the European External Action Service shall monitor the fulfilment of this pre-condition throughout the life-cycle of the Union’s macro-financial assistance and report, regularly and in writing, to the European Parliament and the Council on the fulfilment of the economic policy and financial conditions set out in the Memorandum of Understanding.

    Amendment  21

    Proposal for a decision

    Article 3 – paragraph 1

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    1. The Commission, in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in Article 7(2), shall agree with the Egyptian authorities on clearly defined economic policy and financial conditions, focusing on structural reforms and sound public finances, to which the Union’s macro-financial assistance is to be subject, to be laid down in a Memorandum of Understanding (“the Memorandum of Understanding”) which shall include a timeframe for the achievement of those reforms. The economic policy and financial conditions set out in the Memorandum of Understanding shall be consistent with the agreements or understandings referred to in Article 1(3), including the macroeconomic adjustment and structural reform programmes implemented by Egypt with the support of the IMF.

    1. The Commission, in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in Article 7(2), shall agree with the Egyptian authorities on clearly defined economic policy and financial conditions, focusing on structural reforms, such as the new criminal procedure reform, and sound public finances, to which the Union’s macro-financial assistance is to be subject, to be laid down in a Memorandum of Understanding (“the Memorandum of Understanding”) which shall include a timeframe for the achievement of those reforms. The economic policy and financial conditions set out in the Memorandum of Understanding shall be consistent with the agreements or understandings referred to in Article 1(3), including the macroeconomic adjustment and structural reform programmes implemented by Egypt with the support of the IMF.

    Amendment  22

     

    Proposal for a decision

    Article 3 – paragraph 2

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    2. The conditions referred to in paragraph 1 shall aim, in particular, at enhancing the efficiency, transparency and accountability of the public finance management systems in Egypt, including for the use of the Union’s macro-financial assistance. Progress in mutual market opening, the development of rules-based and fair trade, and other priorities in the context of the Union’s external policy shall also be duly taken into account when designing the policy measures. Progress in attaining those objectives shall be regularly monitored by the Commission.

    2. The economic policy and financial conditions referred to in paragraph 1 shall aim, in particular, at enhancing the efficiency, transparency and accountability of the public finance management systems in Egypt, including for the use of the Union’s macro-financial assistance. Progress in mutual market opening, including for SMEs, the development of rules-based and fair trade, sustainable development, good governance and other priorities in the context of the Union’s external policy shall also be duly taken into account when designing the policy measures. Progress in attaining those objectives shall be regularly monitored by the Commission.

    Amendment  23

    Proposal for a decision

    Article 4 – paragraph 4

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    4. Where the conditions in paragraph 3 are not met, the Commission shall temporarily suspend or cancel the disbursement of the Union’s macro-financial assistance. In such cases, it shall inform the European Parliament and the Council of the reasons for that suspension or cancellation.

    4. Where the conditions in paragraph 3 are not met, the Commission shall temporarily suspend or cancel the disbursement of the Union’s macro-financial assistance. In such cases, it shall inform the European Parliament and the Council without delay of the reasons for that suspension or cancellation.

    Amendment  24

    Proposal for a decision

    Article 5 – paragraph 1

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    (1) In order to finance the support under the macro-financial assistance in the form of loans, the Commission shall be empowered, on behalf of the Union, to borrow the necessary funds on the capital markets or from financial institutions in accordance with Article 220a of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2018/1046.

    1. In order to finance the support under the macro-financial assistance in the form of loans, the Commission shall be empowered, on behalf of the Union, to borrow the necessary funds on the capital markets or from financial institutions in accordance with Article 223 of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509.

     

    Amendment  25

    Proposal for a decision

    Article 5 – paragraph 2

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    (2) The Commission shall enter into a loan agreement with Egypt in respect of the amount referred to in Article 1. The detailed terms of the support under the MFA in the form of loans shall be laid down in a loan agreement in accordance with Article 220 of the Financial Regulation, to be concluded between the Commission and the Egyptian authorities. The loan agreement shall lay down the availability period and the detailed terms of the support under the macro-financial assistance in the form of loans, including in relation to the internal control systems. The loans shall be granted at terms that allow Egypt to repay the loan over a long period, including a possible grace period. The maximum duration of the loans shall be 35 years. The Commission shall inform the European Parliament and the Council of developments in the operations referred to in paragraph 3.

    2. The Commission shall enter into a loan agreement with Egypt in respect of the amount referred to in Article 1. The detailed terms of the support under the MFA in the form of loans shall be laid down in a loan agreement in accordance with Article 223 of the Financial Regulation, to be concluded between the Commission and the Egyptian authorities. The loan agreement shall lay down the availability period and the detailed terms of the support under the macro-financial assistance in the form of loans, including in relation to the internal control systems. Egypt shall reimburse the loan, which shall be granted at terms that allow its repayment over a long period, including, after a formal notification to the European Parliament and the Council, a possible grace period. The maximum duration of the loans shall be 35 years. The Commission shall inform the European Parliament and the Council of developments in the operations referred to in paragraph 3.

    Amendment  26

    Proposal for a decision

    Article 6 – paragraph 1

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    1. The Union’s macro-financial assistance shall be implemented in accordance with Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 2018/1046 of the European Parliament and of the Council7.

    1. The Union’s macro-financial assistance shall be implemented in accordance with Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 2024/2509 of the European Parliament and of the Council7.

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    _________________

    7 Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 2018/1046 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 18 July 2018 on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union and repealing Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 966/2012 (OJ L 193, 30.07.2018, p. 1).

    7 Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 September 2024 on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union (OJ L, 2024/2509, 26.9.2024, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/2509/oj).

    Amendment  27

    Proposal for a decision

    Article 8 – paragraph 1 – point b

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    (b) assess the economic situation and prospects of Egypt, as well as progress made in implementing the policy measures referred to in Article 3(1);

    (b) assess the economic situation and prospects of Egypt, as well as progress made in implementing the policy measures referred to in Article 2 and Article 3(1);

    Amendment  28

    Proposal for a decision

    Article 8 – paragraph 1 – point c

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    (c) indicate the connection between the economic policy reform measures laid down in the Memorandum of Understanding, Egypt’s on-going economic and fiscal performance and the Commission’s decisions to release the instalments of the Union’s macro-financial assistance.

    (c) indicate the connection between Egypt’s economic policy reforms under the Memorandum of Understanding, its fiscal performance, and the release of Union macro-financial assistance, while outlining steps taken towards democratic mechanisms, the rule of law and human rights.

     

     

    EXPLANATORY STATEMENT

    Political dialogue between Egypt and the EU was suspended after the revolution in 2011, and remained frozen through 2015. However, following Sisi’s election as president in May 2014, a rapprochement between Europe and Egypt gradually began to take place. The stability of the country became defining characteristics of European policy towards the Egypt. In 2024 the European Union (‘EU’) and Egypt have agreed to deepen their relationship and develop a strategic and comprehensive partnership for shared prosperity, stability and security, based on joint interest and mutual trust and building on the already existing positive agenda in EU-Egypt relations. The Strategic and Comprehensive Partnership covers specific areas of cooperation outlined in the Joint Declaration, clustered across six pillars of intervention, namely: political relations; economic stability; investment and trade; migration; security and law enforcement cooperation; demography and human capital.

    The partnership is based on a financial package consisting of short- and longer-term support for the necessary macro-fiscal and socio-economic reform agenda, as well as increased amounts available to support investments in Egypt and targeted support for the implementation of the different strategic priorities.

    Given Egypt’s critical economic and financial situation and Egypt’s role as an important stabilising factor amid geopolitical tensions in an increasingly volatile region, the Commission proposed on 15 March 2024 to support Egypt with macro-financial assistance (‘MFA’) of up to EUR 5 billion in loans as part of the EUR 7.4 billion financial package, divided into a short-term MFA operation of up to EUR 1 billion to be disbursed in one instalment, and a regular MFA operation of up to EUR 4 billion to be disbursed in three instalments.

    The short-term MFA was agreed without involvement of the European Parliament for urgency reasons. The rapporteur highlights that this can only be an exception and European Parliament should not be bypassed in the future.

    The amount of the proposed two new MFA operations corresponds to 56.7% of the estimated residual financing gap for the period FY24/25-FY26/27. This is consistent with standard practices on burden-sharing for MFA operations (for a country with an Association Agreement, the upper limit would be 60% according to the Council conclusions of 8 October 2002), taking into account the assistance pledged to Egypt by other bilateral and multilateral donors.

    The rapporteur would like to point out that the EU’s cooperation with Egypt does not begin with this MFA which is just a piece of the puzzle and in fact consequence of a longstanding cooperation with Egypt on human rights and security highlighted by the Association Agreement/Euro-Mediterranean Agreement (2004), the EU’s new Agenda for the Mediterranean (2021), the Partnership Priorities (2022) and the Joint Declaration launching a new Strategic and Comprehensive partnership (2024). Moreover, Egypt is a strategic, economic, military and geopolitical partner of the EU and the EU is the leading investor in Egypt.

    Given the instability in the region, Egypt remains a stable partner that engages in constructive dialogue with its partners. The EU need allies like that in the Middle East, and we need to emphasise their importance.

    But Egypt is also hit by a series of external shocks.

    A migratory shock first and foremost, with almost 10 million migrants and 800 000 registered refugees. Egypt is also committed to providing access to education for children, access to health services, help in finding housing and help in finding employment, with the support of NGOs. These commitments, if they are to be carried out properly, come at a cost.

    A geopolitical shock with the uncertainty of developments in Israel / Palestine and Syria.

    An economic shock, because Egypt, like many other countries, is seeing the cost of debt repayment and civil service salaries rise, thus limiting investment capacity.

    This MFA is based on strict pre-conditions requiring Egypt to continue to make concrete and credible steps towards democratic mechanism, rule of law and human rights. The rapporteur believes that those pre-conditions embedded in the long-term cooperation with Egypt will lead to reforms and long-term improvements in the country.

    Moreover, it is important to underline that Egypt already made big improvements in several areas.

    Firstly, on human rights, with a major plan launched in 2021 underlining the country’s commitment to this path. Some may feel that things are not moving fast enough, but it is hard to deny that the country is on the right track.

    Then there is the question of the place of women in society, which is very often a thermometer of democracy in a country. Wearing the veil is not compulsory. Women have access to public jobs and elected office (27% of women elected to the House, 13% to the Senate). Although Egyptian society is seen as patriarchal, the position of women has changed considerably in recent years.

    This is a financial instrument designed to support our partner in the face of the challenges it faces, but also to help it pursue change. The European Parliament will be closely monitoring progress and the rapporteur is asking the Commission to keep the European Parliament duly informed at all stages of the process. After all, the MFA is a loan and the grants are subject to reimbursement.

    To conclude the rapporteur would like to highlight that the MFA is an emergency instrument that has to be granted as soon as possible. The rapporteur is convinced that the MFA will be an effective incentive for – political and financial reforms in the country that will ensure a sustainable partnership between the EU and Egypt.

     

     

    ANNEX: ENTITIES OR PERSONS FROM WHOM THE RAPPORTEUR HAS RECEIVED INPUT

    Pursuant to Article 8 of Annex I to the Rules of Procedure, the rapporteur declares that she received input from the following entities or persons in the preparation of the report, prior to the adoption thereof in committee:

    Entity and/or person

    European Commission – DG ECFIN

    European Commission – DG NEAR

    EEAS

    Embassy of Egypt

    Members of the Egyptian Parliament

    Amnesty International

    Human Rights Watch

    The list above is drawn up under the exclusive responsibility of the rapporteur.

    Where natural persons are identified in the list by their name, by their function or by both, the rapporteur declares that she has submitted to the concerned natural persons the European Parliament’s Data Protection Notice No 484 (https://www.europarl.europa.eu/data-protect/index.do), which sets out the conditions applicable to the processing of their personal data and the rights linked to that processing.

     

     

    MINORITY POSITION

    Pursuant to Rule 56(4) of the Rules of Procedure

    Vicent Marzà Ibáñez (Greens/EFA)

    On behalf of the Greens/EFA group, I would like to express our opposition to the fact that the European Commission has treated Egypt differently from other countries that receive Macro-Financial Assistance (MFA) from the EU.

    Following an agreement between the Council and Parliament, all MFAs should, as a pre-condition, respect human rights, democracy, and the rule of law. However, the Commission chose not to adhere to this policy when EC President Ursula von der Leyen announced a package of €7.4 billion in support for Egypt in March 2024, including €5 billion in Macro-Financial Assistance in the form of loans.

    We support providing Egypt with macro-financial assistance as a means to improve the living conditions of the Egyptian people, to reduce poverty and inequalities as well as to promote human rights. Our group has previously supported providing macro-financial assistance to alleviate financial burdens for countries in difficulty, while also promoting democratic values and human rights worldwide. However, the Commission must respect the agreements made by Parliament and the Council and act in line with the principles enshrined in the EU Treaties regarding external action.

     

     

    BUDGETARY ASSESSMENT OF THE COMMITTEE ON BUDGETS (29.1.2025)

    for the Committee on International Trade

    on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on providing macro-financial assistance to the Arab Republic of Egypt

    (COM(2024)0461 – C10‑0009/2024 – 2024/0071(COD))

    Rapporteur for budgetary assessment: Matjaž Nemec

     

    The Committee on Budgets has carried out a budgetary assessment of the proposal under Rule 58 of the Rules of Procedure and has reached the following conclusions:

     having regard to Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 September 2024 on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union[1] (Financial Regulation),

     having regard to Council Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2020/2093 of 17 December 2020 laying down the multiannual financial framework for the years 2021 to 2027[2],

     having regard to the Interinstitutional Agreement of 16 December 2020 between the European Parliament, the Council of the European Union and the European Commission (IIA) on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management, as well as on new own resources, including a roadmap towards the introduction of new own resources[3],

    A. whereas Egypt continues to face sizeable and unmet financing needs, with an external financing gap estimated by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme at around USD 17.7 billion for 2024-2027, requiring substantial international support to maintain economic stability and implement crucial reforms;

    B. whereas recently, Egypt’s macro-fiscal situation has deteriorated noticeably, with intensified external pressures and increased debt, reflecting both domestic challenges and external shocks, including the repercussions of Russia’s war against Ukraine and regional instability;

    C. whereas the destructive and ongoing conflict in Gaza and the attacks in the Red Sea have severely impacted Egypt’s key sources of foreign currency earnings, particularly tourism revenues and Suez Canal proceeds, while persistent capital outflows and lower services exports have further strained the country’s external position; whereas Egypt’s socio-economic situation, including poverty rates and the Human Development Index, are also expected to be negatively impacted[4];

    D. whereas the severe deterioration of external accounts and the strategic importance of regional stability conditionally justify this comprehensive support package, while stressing the need for the EU to work towards a lasting long-term peace solution in the Middle East, which will help alleviate the reasons behind Egypt’s financial struggles;

    E. whereas Egypt’s public debt burden had increased substantially to 95.9 % of GDP at the end of the 2022/2023 fiscal year, up from 88.5 % the previous fiscal year, reaching its highest level since 2017 and raising concerns about long-term debt sustainability;

    F. whereas Egypt’s real GDP growth declined to 2.4 % in the 2023/2024 fiscal year due to inflation and external pressures, with food price inflation remaining a strain, especially on vulnerable households;

    G. whereas all major rating agencies have downgraded Egypt’s sovereign credit ratings to below-investment grade following the outbreak of the conflict in Gaza, reflecting increased regional risks and deteriorating humanitarian and economic conditions; whereas this has further complicated the country’s access to international financial markets;

    H. whereas the proposed macro-financial assistance (MFA) of up to EUR 4 billion would help Egypt address its external financing needs while supporting the implementation of structural reforms aimed at improving the macroeconomic situation, strengthening economic governance and transparency, and enhancing conditions for sustainable and inclusive growth;

    I. whereas on 12 April 2024, the Council adopted Decision (EU) 2024/1144 providing EUR 1 billion in short-term macro-financial assistance to the Arab Republic of Egypt[5], pursuant to the urgency procedure provided under Article 213 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU), bypassing Parliament entirely; whereas the Commission adopted a decision on 20 December 2024 to release this single instalment to Egypt;

    J. whereas the IMF has confirmed Egypt’s implementation of key reforms that have contributed to preserving macroeconomic stability despite the challenging environment;

    K. whereas the short-term macro-financial assistance was subject to conditions set out in the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) agreed on and signed by the Commission and the Egyptian authorities on 29 June 2024, including the implementation of economic reforms, concrete and credible steps towards respecting democratic principles, and an on-track IMF programme; whereas the Commission and the European External Action Service undertook a review mission to Cairo in October 2024 and subsequently evaluated the Egyptian authorities’ written compliance reporting, with an overall positive assessment of Egypt’s progress in fulfilling these conditions;

    L. whereas Parliament, as one arm of the EU’s budgetary authority, was not involved in the negotiation and drafting of the MoU, which sets out the structural reform measures associated with the proposed MFA operation, including aspects of timing and sequencing for the disbursement of the initial assistance of EUR 1 billion;

    M. whereas the MoU to be concluded with the Egyptian authorities for the remainder of the MFA is an essential part of the assistance itself; whereas Parliament’s lack of involvement in this process severely hinders its budgetary scrutiny; whereas it is necessary to find an appropriate way to involve Parliament when such memorandums with non-EU countries are negotiated by the Commission;

    N. whereas the MoU should crucially provide the Commission with a mechanism to monitor progress as regards the implementation of structural reforms, notably the specific conditions for disbursement of the assistance;

    1. Recalls that while MFA is meant to be an exceptional crisis response instrument and should not serve as a substitute for structural development aid, its increasing use to address structural economic challenges in partner countries risks diluting its emergency nature;

    2. Highlights the importance of MFA in urgently addressing the situation in Egypt, taking into account Egypt’s critical economic and financial situation and its role as an important stabilising actor in an increasingly volatile region;

    3. Regrets the fact that the first proposal of this package bypassed the co-decision rights of Parliament and undermined its democratic oversight role by using Article 213 TFEU instead of Article 212 TFEU; insists that this should not set a precedent and that Parliament’s rights and role should be respected in future proposals; emphasises that MFA is an instrument requiring proper parliamentary and budgetary scrutiny;

    4. Notes that the Commission proposal of EUR 4 billion in MFA requires EUR 360 million in provisioning under the External Action Guarantee from the Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument – Global Europe, which represents a significant allocation of limited resources;

    5. Recalls its previous concerns about the effectiveness of MFA in driving sustainable reforms; acknowledges, however, that linking this assistance to the broader strategic partnership framework can, when properly implemented, provide stronger leverage for implementing the agreed reform agenda; recalls that the partnership priorities cover three broad areas, namely sustainable modern economy and social development, partnering in foreign policy, and enhancing stability;

    6. Takes note of Egypt’s overall compliance with reform implementation under the previous MFA; reiterates its calls for transparent and timely reporting of assistance implementation; calls for adequate monitoring mechanisms with clear benchmarks and outcomes to be established in the MoU, and for regular reporting to the budgetary authority on developments related to the assistance, given the unprecedented size of this MFA package;

    7. Notes that while the MFA loan structure spreads repayments over a longer period, this creates extended contingent liabilities for the EU budget that require careful monitoring over multiple financial frameworks;

    8. Emphasises that the MFA constitutes a general budgetary support instrument for the benefit of Egypt and that the EU has no control over how the funds are actually spent; nevertheless encourages the Egyptian authorities and counterparties to disclose information on spending at the Commission’s request;

    9. Recalls that Article 6 of the Financial Regulation establishes the obligation for the Commission to ensure compliance with the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the EU and to respect the values enshrined in Article 2 of the Treaty on European Union when implementing the EU budget; stresses that such a budgetary principle constitutes a core legal requirement for any form of EU financial assistance; underscores, therefore, the fact that the proposal lacks sufficient safeguards and clear benchmarks to measure progress towards compliance, particularly regarding respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law and human rights, including the rights of persons belonging to minorities and freedom of belief, in order to protect the EU’s financial interests and ensure the MFA’s implementation in accordance with the Regulation;

    10. Recalls that a pre-condition for granting MFA involves respecting effective democratic mechanisms, including a multiparty parliamentary system and the rule of law, and guaranteeing respect for human rights; highlights that, in this case, Egypt should continue to make concrete and credible steps towards respecting these criteria; emphasises the need to ensure their robust implementation;

    11. Emphasises that strict adherence to democratic principles, the rule of law and fundamental freedoms should remain non-negotiable prerequisites for accessing EU financial support; calls on the Commission to withhold disbursements in the absence of credible progress on these fronts; notes that the Commission’s decision to disburse the short-term macro-financial assistance reflects Egypt’s progress in implementing reforms and the EU’s commitment to supporting Egypt’s economic stabilisation and reform agenda under the strategic and comprehensive partnership, while noting that human rights challenges in Egypt remain significant; stresses, in this respect, the importance of Egypt’s stability and its crucial role in the region, particularly in the current geopolitical context;

    12. Regrets Parliament’s lack of involvement in and scrutiny of the MoU concluded between the Commission and the Egyptian authorities, which, among other things, includes important budgetary provisions that fall within the remit of Parliament, will determine clearly defined economic policy and financial conditions, focusing on structural reforms and sound public finances, and will include a time frame for achieving those reforms, which are linked to loan disbursement;

    13. Concludes that the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on providing macro-financial assistance to the Arab Republic of Egypt is compatible with the elements referred to in Rule 58(3) of the Rules of Procedure.

     

    As part of its budgetary assessment, the Committee on Budgets also submits the following amendments to the proposal:

     

    Amendment  1

    Proposal for a decision

    Recital 1 a (new)

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

     

    (1a) This Decision has implications for the Union budget. Accordingly, the European Parliament’s Committee on Budgets adopted a budgetary assessment, which forms an integral part of Parliament’s mandate for negotiations.

     

    Amendment  38

    Proposal for a decision

    Article 5 – paragraph 1

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    (1) In order to finance the support under the macro-financial assistance in the form of loans, the Commission shall be empowered, on behalf of the Union, to borrow the necessary funds on the capital markets or from financial institutions in accordance with Article 220a of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2018/1046.

    (1) In order to finance the support under the macro-financial assistance in the form of loans, the Commission shall be empowered, on behalf of the Union, to borrow the necessary funds on the capital markets or from financial institutions in accordance with Article 223 of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509.

     

    Amendment  39

    Proposal for a decision

    Article 5 – paragraph 2

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    (2) The Commission shall enter into a loan agreement with Egypt in respect of the amount referred to in Article 1. The detailed terms of the support under the MFA in the form of loans shall be laid down in a loan agreement in accordance with Article 220 of the Financial Regulation, to be concluded between the Commission and the Egyptian authorities. The loan agreement shall lay down the availability period and the detailed terms of the support under the macro-financial assistance in the form of loans, including in relation to the internal control systems. The loans shall be granted at terms that allow Egypt to repay the loan over a long period, including a possible grace period. The maximum duration of the loans shall be 35 years. The Commission shall inform the European Parliament and the Council of developments in the operations referred to in paragraph 3.

    (2) The Commission shall enter into a loan agreement with Egypt in respect of the amount referred to in Article 1. The detailed terms of the support under the MFA in the form of loans shall be laid down in a loan agreement in accordance with Article 223 of the Financial Regulation, to be concluded between the Commission and the Egyptian authorities. The loan agreement shall lay down the availability period and the detailed terms of the support under the macro-financial assistance in the form of loans, including in relation to the internal control systems. The loans shall be granted at terms that allow Egypt to repay the loan over a long period, including a possible grace period. The maximum duration of the loans shall be 35 years. The Commission shall inform the European Parliament and the Council of developments in the operations referred to in paragraph 3.

     

    Amendment  40

    Proposal for a decision

    Article 6 – paragraph 1

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    (1) The Union’s macro-financial assistance shall be implemented in accordance with Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 2018/1046 of the European Parliament and of the Council7.

    (1) The Union’s macro-financial assistance shall be implemented in accordance with Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 2024/2509 of the European Parliament and of the Council7.

    _________________

    _________________

    7 Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 2018/1046 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 18 July 2018 on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union and repealing Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 966/2012 (OJ L 193, 30.07.2018, p. 1).

    7 Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 September 2024 on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union (recast) (OJ L, 2024/2509, 26.9.2024, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/2509/oj).

    Amendment  41

    Proposal for a decision

    Article 8 – paragraph 1 – point b

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    (b) assess the economic situation and prospects of Egypt, as well as progress made in implementing the policy measures referred to in Article 3(1);

    (b) assess the economic situation and prospects of Egypt, as well as progress made in implementing the policy measures referred to in Articles 2 and 3(1);

    ANNEX: ENTITIES OR PERSONS
    FROM WHOM THE RAPPORTEUR FOR BUDGETARY ASSESSMENT HAS RECEIVED INPUT

    Pursuant to Article 8 of Annex I to the Rules of Procedure, the rapporteur for budgetary assessment declares that he received input from the following entities or persons in the preparation of the budgetary assessment, prior to the adoption thereof in committee:

    Entity and/or person

    European Commission

    Ambassador of Egypt to the EU

    Head of delegation of the European Union to Egypt

    The Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Arab Republic of Egypt

    The list is drawn up under the exclusive responsibility of the rapporteur for budgetary assessment.

    Where natural persons are identified in the list by their name, by their function or by both, the rapporteur for budgetary assessment declares that he has submitted to the natural persons concerned the European Parliament’s Data Protection Notice No 484 (https://www.europarl.europa.eu/data-protect/index.do), which sets out the conditions applicable to the processing of their personal data and the rights linked to that processing.

     

    PROCEDURE – COMMITTEE ASKED FOR BUDGETARY ASSESSMENT

    Title

    Macro-financial assistance to the Arab Republic of Egypt

    References

    COM(2024)0461 – C10-0009/2024 – 2024/0071(COD)

    Committee(s) responsible

    INTA

     

     

     

     Date announced in plenary

    BUDG

    13.11.2024

    Rapporteur for budgetary assessment

     Date appointed

    Matjaž Nemec

    24.10.2024

    Discussed in committee

    16.1.2025

     

     

     

    Date adopted

    29.1.2025

     

     

     

    Result of final vote

    +:

    –:

    0:

    32

    5

    1

    Members present for the final vote

    Georgios Aftias, Rasmus Andresen, Isabel Benjumea Benjumea, Tobiasz Bocheński, Olivier Chastel, Tamás Deutsch, Angéline Furet, Jens Geier, Thomas Geisel, Jean-Marc Germain, Sandra Gómez López, Monika Hohlmeier, Alexander Jungbluth, Janusz Lewandowski, Giuseppe Lupo, Siegfried Mureşan, Matjaž Nemec, Danuše Nerudová, João Oliveira, Ruggero Razza, Karlo Ressler, Julien Sanchez, Hélder Sousa Silva, Joachim Streit, Carla Tavares, Nils Ušakovs, Lucia Yar, Auke Zijlstra

    Substitutes present for the final vote

    Damian Boeselager, Michalis Hadjipantela, Moritz Körner, Tiago Moreira de Sá, Rasmus Nordqvist, Michele Picaro, Jacek Protas, Beata Szydło

    Members under Rule 216(7) present for the final vote

    Thierry Mariani, Aodhán Ó Ríordáin

     

    FINAL VOTE BY ROLL CALL
    IN COMMITTEE ASKED FOR BUDGETARY ASSESSMENT

    32

    +

    ECR

    Tobiasz Bocheński, Michele Picaro, Ruggero Razza, Beata Szydło

    NI

    Thomas Geisel

    PPE

    Georgios Aftias, Isabel Benjumea Benjumea, Michalis Hadjipantela, Monika Hohlmeier, Janusz Lewandowski, Siegfried Mureşan, Danuše Nerudová, Jacek Protas, Karlo Ressler, Hélder Sousa Silva

    PfE

    Tamás Deutsch, Angéline Furet, Thierry Mariani, Tiago Moreira de Sá, Julien Sanchez

    Renew

    Olivier Chastel, Moritz Körner, Joachim Streit, Lucia Yar

    S&D

    Jens Geier, Jean-Marc Germain, Sandra Gómez López, Giuseppe Lupo, Matjaž Nemec, Aodhán Ó Ríordáin, Carla Tavares, Nils Ušakovs

     

    5

    PfE

    Auke Zijlstra

    The Left

    João Oliveira

    Verts/ALE

    Rasmus Andresen, Damian Boeselager, Rasmus Nordqvist

     

    1

    0

    ESN

    Alexander Jungbluth

     

    Key to symbols:

    + : in favour

     : against

    0 : abstention

     

     

     

     

    OPINION OF THE COMMITTEE ON FOREIGN AFFAIRS (30.1.2025)

    for the Committee on International Trade

    on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on providing macro-financial assistance to the Arab Republic of Egypt

    (COM(2024)0461 – C10‑0009/2024 – 2024/0071(COD))

    Rapporteur for opinion: Tineke Strik

     

    SHORT JUSTIFICATION

    As enshrined in the Treaties, the EU is required to uphold and promote the principles of human rights, democracy and the rule of law in its external action. While acknowledging the importance of the EU-Egypt strategic partnership and the need for MFA-support to Egypt in light of the economic impact of, among others, the current geopolitical situation, this opinion aims to integrate human rights, democracy and the rule of law as core parts of the MFA and to strengthen provisions related to parliamentary scrutiny and transparency. The Rapporteur is pleased that the Foreign Affairs Committee (AFET) confirmed that these founding principles of the EU should form the basis of EU-Egypt relations, and concrete improvement from Egypt in this regard is a precondition for the disbursement of the MFA. Moreover, the vote confirmed that the AFET Committee is convinced that Commission services and the European External Action Service have the responsibility to integrate this approach into the Memorandum of Understanding to be negotiated with Egypt, and report on progress on the specific conditions to the European Parliament and Council. Payment of each instalment should be subject to concrete improvements on human rights, democracy and the rule of law. The Rapporteur has full trust that the competences of the AFET Committee will be integrated into the report of the Committee on International Trade, and will engage with the respective Rapporteur to that end.

    AMENDMENTS

    The Committee on Foreign Affairs submits the following to the Committee on International Trade, as the committee responsible:

    Amendment  1

     

    Proposal for a decision

    Recital 3

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    (3) In line with the Partnership Priorities, the EU and Egypt are committed to ensuring accountability, the rule of law, the full respect of human rights, fundamental freedoms, promoting democracy, gender equality and equal opportunities as constitutional rights of all their citizens. These commitments contribute to the advancement of the partnership and to Egypt’s sustainable development and stability. The increased and constructive engagement between the EU and Egypt in the last period has opened the path to more meaningful dialogue on human rights related issues. The subcommittee on Political Matters, Human Rights and Democracy, International and Regional issues of December 2022 and the Association Committee of May 2023 provided the institutional platforms to exchange on an array of human rights issues, which the EU would like to continue and build on. The improvement of the human rights situation in Egypt will have a positive impact on EU-Egypt relations.

    (3) In line with the Partnership Priorities, the EU and Egypt are committed to ensuring accountability, the rule of law, the full respect of human rights, fundamental freedoms, promoting democracy, gender equality and equal opportunities as constitutional rights of all their citizens. These commitments contribute to the advancement of the partnership and to Egypt’s sustainable social and economic development and stability. The increased and constructive engagement between the EU and Egypt in the last period has opened the path to more meaningful dialogue on human rights related issues. The subcommittee on Political Matters, Human Rights and Democracy, International and Regional issues of December 2022 and the Association Committee of May 2023 provided the institutional platforms to exchange on an array of human rights issues, which the EU would like to continue and build on. A future improvement of the human rights situation in Egypt, such as improving the rights to freedom of expression, association and peaceful assembly, introducing a moratorium on death penalty, combating torture and enforced disappearances, and improving the conditions of prisons, will have a positive impact on EU-Egypt relations.

    Amendment  2

     

    Proposal for a decision

    Recital 5

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    (5) The EU recognises Egypt’s key role for regional security and stability. Terrorism, organised crime and conflicts are common threats against our security and the social fabric of nations across both sides of the Mediterranean. Therefore, the EU and Egypt have a common interest in strengthening cooperation highlighted in the Partnership Priorities, in full compliance with international law, including human rights and international humanitarian law.

    (5) The EU recognises Egypt’s key role for regional security and stability, and has a strong interest in preventing short-term economic instability in that country that could have broader consequences as well as benefit geopolitical rivals. Terrorism, organised crime, disinformation, conflicts and persecution of religious and ethnic minorities are common threats against our security and the social fabric of nations across both sides of the Mediterranean. Therefore, the EU and Egypt have a common interest in strengthening cooperation highlighted in the Partnership Priorities, in full compliance with international law, including human rights and international humanitarian law, as well as in promoting joint interests and addressing common challenges.

    Amendment  3

     

    Proposal for a decision

    Recital 6

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    (6) Recalling the geo-political challenges, such as the consequences of Hamas terrorist attacks across Israel on 7 October 2023 as well as the conflict in Sudan, and the strategic importance of Egypt as the largest country in the region and a pillar of stability for the whole Middle East, the Union is embarking on concluding a Strategic and Comprehensive partnership with Egypt as outlined in the Joint Declaration.

    (6) Recalling the geo-political challenges, such as the broader consequences of the situation in the Middle East following the Hamas terrorist attacks of 7 October 2023, as well as the armed conflict in Sudan and instability in Syria, and the strategic importance of Egypt as the largest country in the region and a pillar of stability and security for the whole Middle East, the Union is embarking on concluding a Strategic and Comprehensive partnership with Egypt as outlined in the Joint Declaration.

    Amendment  4

     

    Proposal for a decision

    Recital 9

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    (9) Egypt’s macro-fiscal situation has faced significant challenges and deteriorated substantially over recent months, as external pressures have intensified and public debt has increased further, with substantial downside risks to the economic outlook persisting. The repercussions of Russia’s war on Ukraine and of Hamas terrorist attacks against Israel have led to protracted capital outflows and lower foreign currency receipts, notably due to sharply falling income from tourism and Suez Canal proceeds. This is particularly challenging amid Egypt’s difficult fiscal situation, which is characterised by constant fiscal deficits and high and growing debt to GDP ratios.

    (9) Egypt’s macro-fiscal situation has faced significant challenges and deteriorated substantially over recent months, as external pressures have intensified and public debt has increased further, with substantial downside risks to the economic outlook persisting. The repercussions of Russia’s war on Ukraine and of the situation in the Middle East have led to protracted capital outflows and lower foreign currency receipts, notably due to sharply falling income from tourism and Suez Canal proceeds. This is particularly challenging amid Egypt’s difficult fiscal situation, which is characterised by constant fiscal deficits and high and growing debt to GDP ratios. Moreover, instability and uncertainty in Syria would further exacerbate the already existing macro-financial issues for Egypt.

    Amendment  5

     

    Proposal for a decision

    Recital 19

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    (19) The Commission should ensure that the Union’s macro-financial assistance is legally and substantially in line with the key principles, objectives and measures taken within the different areas of external action and with other relevant Union policies.

    (19) As enshrined in Article 212 TFEU, the Commission should ensure that the Union’s macro-financial assistance is legally and substantially in line with the key principles, objectives and measures taken within the different areas of external action, and in particular with Article 2 of the EU-Egypt Association Agreement of 2004 concerning the respect of democratic principles and fundamental human rights and with other relevant Union policies.

    Amendment  6

     

    Proposal for a decision

    Recital 22

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    (22) A pre-condition for granting the Union’s macro-financial assistance to Egypt should be that the country continues to make concrete and credible steps towards respecting effective democratic mechanisms – including a multi-party parliamentary system – and the rule of law, and guarantees respect for human rights. In addition, the specific objectives of the Union’s macro-financial assistance should strengthen the efficiency, transparency and accountability of the public finance management systems, the governance and supervision of the financial sector in Egypt and promote structural reforms aimed at supporting sustainable and inclusive growth, decent employment creation and fiscal consolidation. The fulfillment of the pre-condition and the achievement of the specific objectives should be regularly monitored by the Commission services and the European External Action Service.

    (22) A pre-condition for granting the Union’s macro-financial assistance to Egypt should be that the country takes concrete and credible steps towards respecting and enhancing effective democratic mechanisms – including a multi-party parliamentary system – and the rule of law, and guarantees respect for human rights, In addition, the specific objectives of the Union’s macro-financial assistance should strengthen the efficiency, transparency and accountability of the public finance management systems, the governance and supervision of the financial sector in Egypt and promote structural reforms aimed at supporting sustainable and inclusive growth, decent employment creation and fiscal consolidation. The fulfillment of the pre-condition and the achievement of the specific objectives should be regularly monitored by the Commission services and the European External Action Service.

    Amendment  7

     

    Proposal for a decision

    Recital 26

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    (26) The Union’s macro-financial assistance should be managed by the Commission. In order to ensure that the European Parliament and the Council are able to follow the implementation of this Decision, the Commission should regularly inform them of developments relating to the assistance and provide them with relevant documents.

    (26) The Union’s macro-financial assistance should be managed by the Commission. In order to ensure that the European Parliament and the Council are able to follow the implementation of this Decision, the Commission should regularly inform them with an annual report of developments relating to the assistance and on the respect of effective democratic mechanisms, as per the pre-conditions referred to in this Decision and, provide them with relevant documents.

    Amendment  8

     

    Proposal for a decision

    Recital 28

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    (28) The Union’s macro-financial assistance should be subject to economic policy conditions, to be laid down in a Memorandum of Understanding. In order to ensure uniform conditions of implementation and for reasons of efficiency, the Commission should be empowered to negotiate such conditions with the Egyptian authorities under the supervision of the committee of representatives of the Member States in accordance with Regulation (EU) No 182/2011. Under that Regulation, the advisory procedure should, as a general rule, apply in all cases other than as provided for in that Regulation. Considering the potentially important impact of assistance of more than EUR 90 million, it is appropriate that the examination procedure be used for operations above that threshold. Considering the amount of the Union’s macro-financial assistance to Egypt, the examination procedure should apply to the adoption of the Memorandum of Understanding, and to any reduction, suspension or cancellation of the assistance.

    (28) The Union’s macro-financial assistance should be subject to economic policy and democracy, rule of law and human rights conditions, to be laid down in a Memorandum of Understanding. In order to ensure uniform conditions of implementation and for reasons of efficiency, the Commission should be empowered to negotiate such conditions with the Egyptian authorities under the supervision of the committee of representatives of the Member States in accordance with Regulation (EU) No 182/2011. Under that Regulation, the advisory procedure should, as a general rule, apply in all cases other than as provided for in that Regulation. Considering the potentially important impact of assistance of more than EUR 90 million, it is appropriate that the examination procedure be used for operations above that threshold. Considering the amount of the Union’s macro-financial assistance to Egypt, the examination procedure should apply to the adoption of the Memorandum of Understanding, and to any reduction, suspension or cancellation of the assistance.

    Amendment  9

     

    Proposal for a decision

    Article 1 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    The release of the Union’s macro-financial assistance shall be managed by the Commission in a manner consistent with the agreements or understandings reached between the IMF and Egypt, and with the key principles and objectives of economic reforms set out in the EU-Egypt Association Agreement.

    The release of the Union’s macro-financial assistance shall be managed by the Commission in a manner consistent with the agreements or understandings reached between the IMF and Egypt, and with the key principles and objectives set out in the EU-Egypt Association Agreement.

    Amendment  10

     

    Proposal for a decision

    Article 1 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 2

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    The Commission shall regularly inform the European Parliament and the Council of developments regarding the Union’s macro-financial assistance, including disbursements thereof, and shall provide those institutions with the relevant documents in due time.

    The Commission shall regularly inform the European Parliament and the Council of developments regarding the Union’s macro-financial assistance, including disbursements thereof, as well as on the progress made relating to economic and democratic reforms in Egypt, and shall provide those institutions with the relevant documents, including third-party independent assessments, in due time.

    Amendment  11

     

    Proposal for a decision

    Article 1 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 2 a (new)

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

     

    The transparent management of funds allocated under this macro-financial assistance is essential in order to ensure that resources are used wisely, in accordance with the set objectives. The Union shall ensure that effective and independent control and audit mechanisms are put in place to prevent any misappropriation.

    Amendment  12

     

    Proposal for a decision

    Article 2 – paragraph 1

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    1. A pre-condition for granting the Union’s macro-financial assistance shall be that Egypt continues to make concrete and credible steps towards respecting effective democratic mechanisms – including a multi-party parliamentary system – and the rule of law, and guarantees respect for human rights.

    1. A pre-condition for granting the Union’s macro-financial assistance shall be that Egypt takes concrete and credible steps towards respecting effective democratic mechanisms – including a multi-party parliamentary system – and the rule of law, and made a quantitative and substantial improvement in the respect for human rights, since the signing in June 2024 of the Memorandum of Understanding linked to the EUR 1 billion macro-financial assistance package, and that it continues to make concrete and credible improvements in those areas throughout the period covered by this Decision.

    Amendment  13

     

    Proposal for a decision

    Article 2 – paragraph 2

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    2. The Commission services and the European External Action Service shall monitor the fulfilment of this pre-condition throughout the life-cycle of the Union’s macro-financial assistance.

    2. The Commission services and the European External Action Service shall monitor the fulfilment of this pre-condition throughout the life-cycle of the Union’s macro-financial assistance in a transparent process in which civil society and international entities such as UN organisations are able to contribute, and report, regularly and in writing, to the European Parliament on the conditions referred to in Article 2 (1).

    Amendment  14

     

    Proposal for a decision

    Article 3 – paragraph 1

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    1. The Commission, in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in Article 7(2), shall agree with the Egyptian authorities on clearly defined economic policy and financial conditions, focusing on structural reforms and sound public finances, to which the Union’s macro-financial assistance is to be subject, to be laid down in a Memorandum of Understanding (“the Memorandum of Understanding”) which shall include a timeframe for the achievement of those reforms. The economic policy and financial conditions set out in the Memorandum of Understanding shall be consistent with the agreements or understandings referred to in Article 1(3), including the macroeconomic adjustment and structural reform programmes implemented by Egypt with the support of the IMF.

    1. The Commission, in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in Article 7(2), shall agree with the Egyptian authorities on clearly defined economic policy and financial conditions, focusing on structural reforms and sound public finances, as well as on democracy, rule of law and human rights conditions, to which the Union’s macro-financial assistance and the release of each separate instalment is to be subject, to be laid down in a Memorandum of Understanding (“the Memorandum of Understanding”) which shall include a timeframe for the achievement of those reforms. The economic policy and financial conditions set out in the Memorandum of Understanding shall be consistent with the agreements or understandings referred to in Article 1(3), including the macroeconomic adjustment and structural reform programmes implemented by Egypt with the support of the IMF.

    Amendment  15

     

    Proposal for a decision

    Article 3 – paragraph 2

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    2. The conditions referred to in paragraph 1 shall aim, in particular, at enhancing the efficiency, transparency and accountability of the public finance management systems in Egypt, including for the use of the Union’s macro-financial assistance. Progress in mutual market opening, the development of rules-based and fair trade, and other priorities in the context of the Union’s external policy shall also be duly taken into account when designing the policy measures. Progress in attaining those objectives shall be regularly monitored by the Commission.

    2. The conditions referred to in paragraph 1 shall aim, in particular, at introducing reforms towards respecting effective democratic mechanisms – including a multi-party parliamentary system – and the rule of law, and ensuring respect for human rights, enhancing the efficiency, transparency and accountability of the public finance management systems in Egypt, including for the use of the Union’s macro-financial assistance. Progress in mutual market opening, poverty reduction, good governance, the fight against corruption, the development of rules-based and fair trade, and other priorities in the context of the Union’s external policy, including those relating to democracy, rule of law and human rights, shall also be duly taken into account when designing the policy measures. Progress in attaining those objectives shall be regularly monitored by the Commission.

    Amendment  16

     

    Proposal for a decision

    Article 4 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1 – point c

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    (c) the satisfactory implementation of the economic policy conditions and financial conditions agreed in the Memorandum of Understanding.

    (c) the satisfactory implementation of the economic policy conditions, financial conditions, and democracy, rule of law and human rights conditions, agreed in the Memorandum of Understanding.

    Amendment  17

     

    Proposal for a decision

    Article 8 – paragraph 1 – point c a (new)

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

     

    (ca) outline the concrete and credible steps Egypt has taken towards respecting effective democratic mechanisms, including a multi-party parliamentary system, and the rule of law, and towards ensuring respect for human rights.

    ANNEX: ENTITIES OR PERSONS
    FROM WHOM THE RAPPORTEUR HAS RECEIVED INPUT

    Pursuant to Article 8 of Annex I to the Rules of Procedure, the rapporteur for the opinion received input from the following entities or persons in the preparation of the opinion:

    Entity and/or person

     

    European Commission – DG ECFIN

    EEAS

    Various Egyptian authorities on multiple occassion

    Amnesty International

    Euromed Rights

    CIHRS

    Egyptian Front for Human Rights

    Committee to Protect Journalists

    Various Members of the Egyptian Parliament

    UNHCR

    Save the Children

    Frontex

    Various diplomats of EU Member States in Caïro

    Various local civil society organisations in Egypt

    Third country diplomat in Egypt

    The list above is drawn up under the exclusive responsibility of the rapporteur for the opinion.

    Where natural persons are identified in the list by their name, by their function or by both, the rapporteur for the opinion declares that she has submitted to the concerned natural persons the European Parliament’s Data Protection Notice No 484 (https://www.europarl.europa.eu/data-protect/index.do), which sets out the conditions applicable to the processing of their personal data and the rights linked to that processing.

    PROCEDURE – COMMITTEE ASKED FOR OPINION

    Title

    Macro-financial assistance to the Arab Republic of Egypt

    References

    COM(2024)0461 – C10-0009/2024 – 2024/0071(COD)

    Committee(s) responsible

    INTA

     

     

     

    Opinion by

     Date announced in plenary

    AFET

    13.11.2024

    Rapporteur for the opinion

     Date appointed

    Tineke Strik

    14.10.2024

    Discussed in committee

    3.12.2024

     

     

     

    Date adopted

    30.1.2025

     

     

     

    Result of final vote

    +:

    –:

    0:

    59

    6

    7

    Members present for the final vote

    Mika Aaltola, Lucia Annunziata, Petras Auštrevičius, Jordan Bardella, Dan Barna, Wouter Beke, Robert Biedroń, Ioan-Rareş Bogdan, Marc Botenga, Grzegorz Braun, Sebastião Bugalho, Danilo Della Valle, Özlem Demirel, Elio Di Rupo, Michael Gahler, Geadis Geadi, Giorgos Georgiou, Raphaël Glucksmann, Bernard Guetta, Rima Hassan, Rasa Juknevičienė, Sandra Kalniete, Łukasz Kohut, Rihards Kols, Andrey Kovatchev, Vilis Krištopans, Nathalie Loiseau, Claudiu Manda, David McAllister, Sven Mikser, Francisco José Millán Mon, Arkadiusz Mularczyk, Leoluca Orlando, Kostas Papadakis, Tonino Picula, Thijs Reuten, Nacho Sánchez Amor, Andreas Schieder, Alexander Sell, Villy Søvndal, Davor Ivo Stier, Sebastiaan Stöteler, Stanislav Stoyanov, Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, Michał Szczerba, António Tânger Corrêa, Marta Temido, Cristian Terheş, Riho Terras, Hermann Tertsch, Pierre-Romain Thionnet, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Reinier Van Lanschot, Roberto Vannacci, Hilde Vautmans, Harald Vilimsky, Željana Zovko

    Substitutes present for the final vote

    Jaume Asens Llodrà, Malik Azmani, Engin Eroglu, Sandra Gómez López, Evin Incir, András László, Ana Catarina Mendes, Hans Neuhoff, Nicolás Pascual de la Parte, Chloé Ridel, Tineke Strik, Şerban Dimitrie Sturdza, Ingeborg Ter Laak, Matej Tonin, Ivaylo Valchev, Isabel Wiseler-Lima

    Members under Rule 216(7) present for the final vote

    Catarina Vieira

     

     

    FINAL VOTE BY ROLL CALL IN COMMITTEE ASKED FOR OPINION

    59

    +

    ECR

    Geadis Geadi, Rihards Kols, Arkadiusz Mularczyk, Şerban Dimitrie Sturdza, Cristian Terheş, Ivaylo Valchev

    PPE

    Mika Aaltola, Wouter Beke, Ioan-Rareş Bogdan, Sebastião Bugalho, Michael Gahler, Rasa Juknevičienė, Sandra Kalniete, Łukasz Kohut, Andrey Kovatchev, David McAllister, Francisco José Millán Mon, Nicolás Pascual de la Parte, Davor Ivo Stier, Michał Szczerba, Ingeborg Ter Laak, Riho Terras, Matej Tonin, Isabel Wiseler-Lima, Željana Zovko

    PfE

    András László, António Tânger Corrêa, Hermann Tertsch, Roberto Vannacci

    Renew

    Petras Auštrevičius, Malik Azmani, Dan Barna, Engin Eroglu, Bernard Guetta, Nathalie Loiseau, Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, Hilde Vautmans

    S&D

    Lucia Annunziata, Robert Biedroń, Elio Di Rupo, Raphaël Glucksmann, Sandra Gómez López, Evin Incir, Claudiu Manda, Ana Catarina Mendes, Sven Mikser, Tonino Picula, Thijs Reuten, Nacho Sánchez Amor, Andreas Schieder, Marta Temido

    The Left

    Özlem Demirel, Rima Hassan

    Verts/ALE

    Jaume Asens Llodrà, Leoluca Orlando, Villy Søvndal, Tineke Strik, Reinier Van Lanschot, Catarina Vieira

     

    6

    NI

    Grzegorz Braun, Kostas Papadakis

    PfE

    Jordan Bardella, Sebastiaan Stöteler, Pierre-Romain Thionnet, Harald Vilimsky

     

    7

    0

    ECR

    Sebastian Tynkkynen

    ESN

    Hans Neuhoff, Alexander Sell, Stanislav Stoyanov

    The Left

    Marc Botenga, Danilo Della Valle, Giorgos Georgiou

     

    Key to symbols:

    + : in favour

     : against

    0 : abstention

     

     

     

     

     

    PROCEDURE – COMMITTEE RESPONSIBLE

    Title

    Macro-financial assistance to the Arab Republic of Egypt

    References

    COM(2024)0461 – C10-0009/2024 – 2024/0071(COD)

    Date submitted to Parliament

    15.3.2024

     

     

     

    Committee(s) responsible

    INTA

     

     

     

    Committees asked for opinions

     Date announced in plenary

    AFET

    13.11.2024

     

     

     

    Rapporteurs

     Date appointed

    Céline Imart

    30.9.2024

     

     

     

    Discussed in committee

    14.10.2024

    30.1.2025

     

     

    Date adopted

    20.3.2025

     

     

     

     

    BUDG

    29.1.2025

     

     

     

    Result of final vote

    +:

    –:

    0:

    28

    7

    5

    Members present for the final vote

    Christophe Bay, Brando Benifei, Anna Bryłka, Udo Bullmann, Benoit Cassart, Markéta Gregorová, Bart Groothuis, Céline Imart, Karin Karlsbro, Bernd Lange, Ilia Lazarov, Thierry Mariani, Javier Moreno Sánchez, Ştefan Muşoiu, Daniele Polato, Majdouline Sbai, Lukas Sieper, Dominik Tarczyński, Francesco Torselli, Kathleen Van Brempt, Jörgen Warborn, Iuliu Winkler, Bogdan Andrzej Zdrojewski, Juan Ignacio Zoido Álvarez

    Substitutes present for the final vote

    Mika Aaltola, Nicolas Bay, Markus Buchheit, João Cotrim De Figueiredo, Danilo Della Valle, Borja Giménez Larraz, Vicent Marzà Ibáñez, Marina Mesure, Martin Schirdewan, Kris Van Dijck

    Members under Rule 216(7) present for the final vote

    Hildegard Bentele, Mélanie Disdier, Niels Geuking, Chloé Ridel, Romana Tomc, Matthieu Valet

    Date tabled

    24.3.2025

     

    FINAL VOTE BY ROLL CALL BY THE COMMITTEE RESPONSIBLE

    28

    +

    ECR

    Nicolas Bay, Daniele Polato, Dominik Tarczyński, Francesco Torselli, Kris Van Dijck

    ESN

    Markus Buchheit

    NI

    Lukas Sieper

    PPE

    Mika Aaltola, Hildegard Bentele, Niels Geuking, Borja Giménez Larraz, Céline Imart, Ilia Lazarov, Romana Tomc, Jörgen Warborn, Iuliu Winkler, Bogdan Andrzej Zdrojewski, Juan Ignacio Zoido Álvarez

    PfE

    Christophe Bay, Anna Bryłka, Mélanie Disdier, Thierry Mariani, Matthieu Valet

    Renew

    Benoit Cassart, João Cotrim De Figueiredo, Bart Groothuis, Karin Karlsbro

    S&D

    Javier Moreno Sánchez

     

    7

    S&D

    Udo Bullmann

    The Left

    Danilo Della Valle, Marina Mesure, Martin Schirdewan

    Verts/ALE

    Markéta Gregorová, Vicent Marzà Ibáñez, Majdouline Sbai

     

    5

    0

    S&D

    Brando Benifei, Bernd Lange, Ştefan Muşoiu, Chloé Ridel, Kathleen Van Brempt

     

    Key to symbols:

    + : in favour

     : against

    0 : abstention

     

     

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on providing macro-financial assistance to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan – A10-0038/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    DRAFT EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION

    on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on providing macro-financial assistance to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan

    (COM(2024)0159 – C9‑0146/2024 – 2024/0086(COD))

    (Ordinary legislative procedure: first reading)

    The European Parliament,

     having regard to the Commission proposal to Parliament and the Council (COM(2024)0159),

     having regard to Article 294(2) and Article 212 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, pursuant to which the Commission submitted the proposal to Parliament (C9‑0146/2024),

     having regard to Article 294(3) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,

     having regard to Rule 60 of its Rules of Procedure,

     having regard to the budgetary assessment by the Committee on Budgets,

     having regard to the opinion of the Committee on Foreign Affairs,

     having regard to the report of the Committee on International Trade (A10-0038/2025),

    1. Adopts its position at first reading, taking over the Commission proposal;

    2. Calls on the Commission to refer the matter to Parliament again if it replaces, substantially amends or intends to substantially amend its proposal;

    3. Instructs its President to forward its position to the Council, the Commission and the national parliaments.

     

     

    EXPLANATORY STATEMENT

    In an increasingly challenging global economic context, Jordan faces persistent structural challenges compounded by significant external shocks. While the country has maintained moderate growth of around 2% in recent years, this level remains insufficient to address fundamental economic needs: reducing high unemployment (22.9% in 2022) and alleviating a substantial public debt burden (88.7% of GDP in 2023).

    These domestic challenges are further exacerbated by heightened regional tensions, including the war between Israel and Gaza and ongoing instability in Syria, which are disrupting trade, straining public resources and jeopardizing key sectors such as tourism. Therefore, Jordan is facing a series of unfavorable factors with economic, political, social and demographic consequences, and must receive appropriate and rapid support as a reliable and stable partner of the EU. Moreover, the migratory pressure is very high in the Kingdom with 1.3 million refugees from Syria out of total of 3.8 million of refugees. It means 1/3 of the Kingdom population are refugees.

    To support Jordan’s economic stability and cover the country’s residual financing needs over the operation’s availability period, the Commission proposes a macro-financial assistance (MFA) operation of up to €500 million in loans, despite the Jordan’s request for €700 million.

    This assistance is designed to address pressing economic challenges, including high public debt, a structurally elevated budget deficit (5.1% of GDP in 2023), and a persistent external deficits (average of around 6.5% of GDP over the last five years). It also aims to mitigate the fiscal constraints exacerbated by recent crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and regional instability.

    The political and economic conditions necessary for granting the proposed MFA are fulfilled, as confirmed by the Commission’s evaluation of Jordan’s current situation. The loan will be provided under the External Action Guarantee with a provisioning at a rate of 9%, which will be programmed under the NDICI-GE, for a total amount of EUR 45 million. To ensure risk coverage, the EU will provision 9% of the total amount, or €45 million, under the External Action Guarantee.

    The MFA will have a validity period of two and a half years following the entry into force of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The disbursement of funds will occur in three tranches, contingent upon the full and timely implementation of the agreed-upon economic policies outlined in the MoU. These policies include ambitious reforms in key areas such as public governance, fiscal management, and anti-corruption efforts, ensuring that the assistance supports Jordan’s long-term economic resilience.

    This assistance complements the ongoing IMF program approved in January 2024, which provides $1.2 billion over four years, and aligns with support from other international partners, including substantial U.S. grants. It also builds on Jordan’s track record with macro-financial assistance, being the fourth MFA operation since 2014, totaling €1.08 billion to date. These successive programs underscore the EU’s ongoing commitment to strengthening Jordan’s institutional capacity and promoting economic stability.

    By addressing Jordan’s immediate financing needs and supporting reforms in key areas, the MFA reinforces the country’s economic resilience while contributing to regional stability. Subordinated to clear economic policy conditions, this assistance ensures accountability and progress. The full and timely implementation of these policies will remain a prerequisite for the disbursement of each tranche, ensuring that Jordan continues to meet its reform commitments.

    Jordan is a key partner in the region, able to engage in dialogue with the various geopolitical players in the Middle East. It is important to give Jordan due consideration and not to take its support for granted. It is therefore important to build a global and strategic partnership with Jordan, alongside and in addition to this MFA, in order to quickly lay the foundations for tomorrow’s collaboration.

     

     

    ANNEX: ENTITIES OR PERSONS FROM WHOM THE RAPPORTEUR HAS RECEIVED INPUT

    Pursuant to Article 8 of Annex I to the Rules of Procedure, the rapporteur declares that she received input from the following entities or persons in the preparation of the report, prior to the adoption thereof in committee:

    Entity and/or person

    European Commission – DG ECFIN

    European Commission – DG NEAR

    EEAS

    Embassy of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan

    The list above is drawn up under the exclusive responsibility of the rapporteur.

    Where natural persons are identified in the list by their name, by their function or by both, the rapporteur declares that she has submitted to the concerned natural persons the European Parliament’s Data Protection Notice No 484 (https://www.europarl.europa.eu/data-protect/index.do), which sets out the conditions applicable to the processing of their personal data and the rights linked to that processing.

     

    BUDGETARY ASSESSMENT OF THE COMMITTEE ON BUDGETS (4.2.2025)

    for the Committee on International Trade

    on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on providing macro-financial assistance to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan

    (COM(2024)0159 – C9‑0146/2024 – 2024/0086(COD))

    Rapporteur for budgetary assessment: Johan Van Overtveldt 

    The Committee on Budgets has carried out a budgetary assessment of the proposal under Rule 58 of the Rules of Procedure and has reached the following conclusions:

    A. whereas Jordan continues to face significant external financing needs and economic challenges, with a current account deficit of 7.1 % of gross domestic product (GDP) in the first half of 2023, driven by persistent deficits in trade in goods; whereas Jordan’s public debt burden remains high at 88.7 % of GDP in 2023, raising concerns about long-term fiscal sustainability;

    B. whereas Jordan’s narrow revenue base, with domestic tax revenue at only 16 % of GDP, raises concerns about long-term fiscal sustainability and capacity to service external debts;

    C. whereas the policy measures associated with macro-financial assistance (MFA) cover selected provisions related to the Association Agreement and the EU-Jordan Partnership Priorities 2021-2027;

    D. whereas significant structural challenges hinder economic growth, with deficiencies in the business environment, access to finance, labour market flexibility and public administration; whereas unemployment remains high, especially among women, youth and university graduates, with women’s labour force participation at just 14 % in 2023, among the lowest globally; whereas the EU-Jordan Partnership Priorities 2021-2027 aim to address these issues by fostering decent work, innovation, skills development and comprehensive social protection systems;

    E. whereas the EU-Jordan Partnership Priorities 2021-2027 highlight cooperation in inter-religious and intercultural dialogue and the protection of cultural heritage as drivers of peace and sustainable development; whereas these efforts can include safeguarding historical manuscripts and archives, contributing to inclusive dialogue and mutual understanding;

    F. whereas Jordan’s economy has suffered significantly from protracted conflicts and crises in the region, notably in neighbouring Syria, and most recently in Israel/Gaza and the Red Sea; whereas these pose further risks to Jordan’s economic outlook, particularly affecting tourism and trade, with disruptions to exports and vessel traffic;

    G. whereas the severe deterioration of external accounts and Jordan’s strategic importance for regional stability justify this support package;

    H. whereas the conflicts in Gaza and the wider region have been exacerbating socioeconomic challenges in Jordan given its geographical position;

    1. Notes that the Commission proposal of EUR 500 million in MFA requires EUR 45 million in provisioning under the External Action Guarantee from the Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument – Global Europe; points out that the evolving financial and economic realities in Jordan might require a revision of the proposed amount of MFA, consequently having an effect on provisioning;

    2. Notes that the assistance will be disbursed in three instalments between 2024 and 2027, with release strictly linked to the progress of the implementation of both the International Monetary Fund programme and additional policy measures;

    3. Recalls that this represents the fourth MFA operation for Jordan since 2014, bringing total MFA support to EUR 1.58 billion, demonstrating the EU’s sustained commitment to supporting Jordan’s economic stability;

    4. Acknowledges that the loan structure includes a grace period and spreads repayments over a long period, creating extended contingent liabilities for the EU budget that require monitoring over multiple financial frameworks;

    5. Acknowledges that the International Monetary Fund assessed Jordan’s public debt level as sustainable in its report of January 2024, while noting that debt sustainability risks remain significant;

    6. Recalls that previous MFA operations for Jordan have demonstrated positive track records in terms of repayment;

    7. Emphasises that the MFA underpins Jordan’s continued commitment to values shared with the Union, including democracy, rule of law, good governance and respect for human rights; highlights that these commitments are key to ensuring effective reforms and long-term stability; stresses that a precondition for granting the Union’s macro-financial assistance is that Jordan respects effective democratic mechanisms – including a multi-party parliamentary system – and guarantees respect for human rights;

    8. Stresses the importance of the regular verification of Jordan’s compliance with the preconditions, ongoing conditionality and objectives to protect the EU’s financial interests and ensure the implementation of the MFA in accordance with the regulation;

    9. Calls for proper monitoring and regular reporting to Parliament and the Council on developments relating to the assistance as well as the continuous monitoring of conditions and objectives;

    10. Recalls that while MFA is meant to be an exceptional crisis response instrument, its increasing use to address structural economic challenges in partner countries risks diluting its emergency nature;

    11. Concludes that the proposal for a decision on providing macro-financial assistance to Jordan is compatible with the EU’s budgetary framework and financial rules.

     

     

    ANNEX: ENTITIES OR PERSONS
    FROM WHOM THE RAPPORTEUR FOR BUDGETARY ASSESSMENT HAS RECEIVED INPUT

    The Chair in his capacity as rapporteur for budgetary assessment declares under his exclusive responsibility that he did not receive input from any entity or person to be mentioned in this Annex pursuant to Article 8 of Annex I to the Rules of Procedure.

     

    PROCEDURE – COMMITTEE ASKED FOR BUDGETARY ASSESSMENT

    Title

    Macro-financial assistance to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan

    References

    COM(2024)0159 – C9-0146/2024 – 2024/0086(COD)

    Committee(s) responsible

    INTA

     

     

     

     Date announced in plenary

    BUDG

    25.4.2024

    Rapporteur for budgetary assessment

     Date appointed

    Johan Van Overtveldt

    5.12.2024

    Discussed in committee

    16.1.2025

     

     

     

    Date adopted

    29.1.2025

     

     

     

    Result of final vote

    +:

    –:

    0:

    35

    2

    1

    Members present for the final vote

    Georgios Aftias, Rasmus Andresen, Isabel Benjumea Benjumea, Tobiasz Bocheński, Olivier Chastel, Tamás Deutsch, Angéline Furet, Jens Geier, Thomas Geisel, Jean-Marc Germain, Sandra Gómez López, Monika Hohlmeier, Alexander Jungbluth, Janusz Lewandowski, Giuseppe Lupo, Siegfried Mureşan, Matjaž Nemec, Danuše Nerudová, João Oliveira, Ruggero Razza, Karlo Ressler, Julien Sanchez, Hélder Sousa Silva, Joachim Streit, Carla Tavares, Nils Ušakovs, Lucia Yar, Auke Zijlstra

    Substitutes present for the final vote

    Damian Boeselager, Michalis Hadjipantela, Moritz Körner, Tiago Moreira de Sá, Rasmus Nordqvist, Michele Picaro, Jacek Protas, Beata Szydło

    Members under Rule 216(7) present for the final vote

    Thierry Mariani, Aodhán Ó Ríordáin

     

     

     

    FINAL VOTE BY ROLL CALL
    IN COMMITTEE ASKED FOR BUDGETARY ASSESSMENT

    35

    +

    ECR

    Tobiasz Bocheński, Michele Picaro, Ruggero Razza, Beata Szydło

    NI

    Thomas Geisel

    PPE

    Georgios Aftias, Isabel Benjumea Benjumea, Michalis Hadjipantela, Monika Hohlmeier, Janusz Lewandowski, Siegfried Mureşan, Danuše Nerudová, Jacek Protas, Karlo Ressler, Hélder Sousa Silva

    PfE

    Tamás Deutsch, Angéline Furet, Thierry Mariani, Tiago Moreira de Sá, Julien Sanchez

    Renew

    Olivier Chastel, Moritz Körner, Joachim Streit, Lucia Yar

    S&D

    Jens Geier, Jean-Marc Germain, Sandra Gómez López, Giuseppe Lupo, Matjaž Nemec, Aodhán Ó Ríordáin, Carla Tavares, Nils Ušakovs

    Verts/ALE

    Rasmus Andresen, Damian Boeselager, Rasmus Nordqvist

     

    2

    PfE

    Auke Zijlstra

    The Left

    João Oliveira

     

    1

    0

    ESN

    Alexander Jungbluth

     

    Key to symbols:

    + : in favour

     : against

    0 : abstention

    OPINION OF THE COMMITTEE ON FOREIGN AFFAIRS (31.1.2025)

    for the Committee on International Trade

    on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on providing macro-financial assistance to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan

    (COM(2024)0159 – C9‑0146/2024 – 2024/0086(COD))

    Rapporteur for opinion: Malik Azmani

     

     

    AMENDMENTS

    The Committee on Foreign Affairs submits the following to the Committee on International Trade, as the committee responsible:

    Amendment  1

    Proposal for a decision

    Recital 2

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    (2) Since 2011, Jordan has embarked on a number of political reforms to strengthen parliamentary democracy and the rule of law. A Constitutional Court and an Independent Electoral Commission have been set up and a number of major laws, including the Electoral Act and the Political Parties Act as well as laws on decentralisation and municipalities, have been passed by the Jordanian Parliament. Legislative improvements as regards the independence of the judiciary and women’s rights have been adopted.

    (2) Since 2021, Jordan has embarked on a number of political reforms to strengthen parliamentary democracy and the rule of law. A Constitutional Court and an Independent Electoral Commission have been set up and a number of major laws, including the Electoral Act and the Political Parties Act as well as laws on decentralisation and municipalities, have been passed by the Jordanian Parliament. Legislative improvements as regards the independence of the judiciary and women’s rights have been adopted. The European Election Observation Mission in Jordan took note of the inclusive and well-organised parliamentary elections that took place on 10 September 2024 in the context of the political modernisation initiated by the King in 2021. It is crucial that the Union continues to support peace in Jordan and does everything within its power to preserve the unique Jordanian model of ethnic and religious representation in order to ensure legitimate representation of those groups.

    Amendment  2

     

    Proposal for a decision

    Recital 3

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    (3) The Jordanian economy has suffered significantly from protracted conflicts in the region, notably in neighbouring Syria, and most recently in Israel/Gaza and the Red Sea. Since the start of the war in Syria, the Jordanian economy has been impacted by a large inflow of Syrian refugees, which has increased pressure on its fiscal position, public services and infrastructure. In addition to regional instability, the macroeconomic and fiscal challenges related to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020/2021, commodity price developments following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, high exposure to trade fluctuations and the increase of borrowing costs for emerging markets globally continued to weigh on the Jordanian economy. As a result, Jordan experienced an economic contraction in 2020, followed by a slow economic recovery, as unemployment increased significantly in 2020 and remained high, and new fiscal and external financing needs emerged.

    (3) The Jordanian economy has suffered significantly from protracted conflicts in the region, notably in neighbouring Syria, and most recently in Israel/Gaza and the Red Sea. Since the start of the war in Syria, the Jordanian economy has been impacted by a large inflow of Syrian refugees, which has increased pressure on its fiscal position, public services and infrastructure. The current uncertainty in Syria further exacerbates the already highly detrimental instability for Jordan. Jordan hosts around 1,3 million refugees, making it one of the countries with the highest number of refugee populations per capita. In addition to regional instability, the macroeconomic and fiscal challenges related to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020/2021, commodity price developments following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, high exposure to trade fluctuations and the increase of borrowing costs for emerging markets globally continued to weigh on the Jordanian economy. As a result, Jordan experienced an economic contraction in 2020, followed by a slow economic recovery, as unemployment increased significantly in 2020 and remained high, and new fiscal and external financing needs emerged. Moreover, significant structural issues hinder economic growth, particularly in the area of private sector development. Challenges such as an unfavourable business environment and inflexibility in the labour market remain unresolved.

    Amendment  3

     

    Proposal for a decision

    Recital 4 a (new)

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

     

    (4a) The Union recognises Jordan’s pivotal role in promoting regional stability and mediating conflicts, particularly amidst heightened tensions. The proposed macro-financial assistance aims to support Jordan in maintaining its positive role in the region. In that context, and in recognition of Jordan being one of the Union’s strongest regional partners, it is imperative for the Commission and the European External Action Service (EEAS) to further deepen and strengthen the EU-Jordan partnership, thereby advancing cooperation.

    Amendment  4

     

    Proposal for a decision

    Recital 21

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    (21) A pre-condition for granting the Union’s macro-financial assistance should be that Jordan respects effective democratic mechanisms – including a multi-party parliamentary system – and the rule of law, and guarantees respect for human rights. In addition, the specific objectives of the Union’s macro-financial assistance should strengthen the efficiency, transparency and accountability of the public finance management systems in Jordan and promote structural reforms aimed at supporting sustainable and inclusive growth, employment creation and fiscal consolidation. Both the fulfilment of the pre-conditions and the achievement of those objectives should be regularly monitored by the Commission and the EEAS.

    (21) A pre-condition for granting the Union’s macro-financial assistance should be that Jordan respects effective democratic mechanisms – including a multi-party parliamentary system – and the rule of law, and guarantees respect for human rights. In addition, the specific objectives of the Union’s macro-financial assistance should strengthen the efficiency, transparency and accountability of the public finance management systems in Jordan and promote structural reforms aimed at supporting sustainable and inclusive growth, employment creation, and fiscal consolidation and policies. Both the fulfilment of the pre-conditions and the achievement of those objectives should be regularly monitored by the Commission and the EEAS, which should subsequently be reported to the European Parliament. The Union should encourage Jordan’s efforts toward economic diversification and sustainability, particularly in sectors such as renewable energy, technology  and digital services, in order to reduce its reliance on tourism and chemical exports and to enhance long-term resilience.

    Amendment  5

     

    Proposal for a decision

    Recital 27

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    (27) The Union’s macro-financial assistance should be subject to economic policy conditions, to be laid down in a Memorandum of Understanding. In order to ensure uniform conditions of implementation and for reasons of efficiency, the Commission should be empowered to negotiate such conditions with the Jordanian authorities under the supervision of the committee of representatives of the Member States in accordance with Regulation (EU) No 182/2011. Under that Regulation, the advisory procedure should, as a general rule, apply in all cases other than as provided for in that Regulation. Considering the potentially important impact of assistance of more than EUR 90 million, it is appropriate that the examination procedure be used for operations above that threshold. Considering the amount of the Union’s macro-financial assistance to Jordan, the examination procedure should apply to the adoption of the Memorandum of Understanding, and to any reduction, suspension or cancellation of the assistance.

    (27) The Union’s macro-financial assistance should be subject to clear and measurable economic, as well as democracy, rule of law and human rights policy conditions, to be laid down in a Memorandum of Understanding. In order to ensure uniform conditions of implementation and for reasons of efficiency, the Commission should be empowered to negotiate such conditions with the Jordanian authorities under the supervision of the committee of representatives of the Member States in accordance with Regulation (EU) No 182/2011. Under that Regulation, the advisory procedure should, as a general rule, apply in all cases other than as provided for in that Regulation. Considering the potentially important impact of assistance of more than EUR 90 million, it is appropriate that the examination procedure be used for operations above that threshold. Considering the amount of the Union’s macro-financial assistance to Jordan, the examination procedure should apply to the adoption of the Memorandum of Understanding, including clear and measurable benchmarks to evaluate the implementation of each instalment, and to any reduction, suspension or cancellation of the assistance.

    Amendment  6

     

    Proposal for a decision

    Article 2 – paragraph 2

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    2. The Commission and the European External Action Service shall monitor the fulfilment of this pre-condition throughout the life cycle of the Union’s macro-financial assistance..

    2. The Commission and the European External Action Service shall monitor the fulfilment of this pre-condition throughout the life cycle of the Union’s macro-financial assistance in a transparent process in which independent third parties are able to contribute meaningfully. The Commission and the EEAS shall also report, both regularly and in writing, to the European Parliament and to the Council on the fulfilment of the pre-condition referred to in paragraph 1.

    Amendment  7

     

    Proposal for a decision

    Article 3 – paragraph 2

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    2. The conditions referred to in paragraph 1 shall aim, in particular, at enhancing the efficiency, transparency and accountability of the public finance management systems in Jordan, including for the use of the Union’s macro-financial assistance. Progress in mutual market opening, the development of rules-based and fair trade, and other priorities in the context of the Union’s external policy shall also be duly taken into account when designing the policy measures. Progress in attaining those objectives shall be regularly monitored by the Commission.

    2. The conditions referred to in paragraph 1 shall aim, in particular, at enhancing the efficiency, transparency and accountability of the public finance management systems in Jordan, including for the use of the Union’s macro-financial assistance. This shall include the publication of regular and detailed reports by the Jordanian government on the use of funds, specifying allocations for key sectors such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure, ensuring public access to such information. Progress in public services, mutual market opening, the development of rules-based and fair trade, and other priorities in the context of the Union’s external policy, including those related to democracy, rule of law and human rights, shall also be duly taken into account when designing the policy measures. Progress in attaining those objectives shall be regularly monitored by the Commission and the EEAS, and shall be communicated to the European Parliament.

    Amendment  8

    Proposal for a decision

    Article 4 – paragraph 4

     

    Text proposed by the Commission

    Amendment

    4. Where the conditions referred to in the first subparagraph of paragraph 3 are not met, the Commission shall temporarily suspend or cancel the disbursement of the Union’s macro-financial assistance. In such cases, it shall inform the European Parliament and the Council of the reasons for the suspension or cancellation.

    4. Where the conditions referred to in the first subparagraph of paragraph 3 are not met, the Commission shall temporarily suspend or cancel the disbursement of the Union’s macro-financial assistance. In such cases, it shall inform the European Parliament and the Council of the reasons for the suspension or cancellation and of the subsequent steps.

     

     

    ANNEX: ENTITIES OR PERSONS
    FROM WHOM THE RAPPORTEUR FOR THE OPINION HAS RECEIVED INPUT

    Pursuant to Article 8 of Annex I to the Rules of Procedure, the rapporteur for the opinion received input from the following entities or persons in the preparation of the opinion:

    Entity and/or person

     

    European Commission – DG ECFIN

    The Court of Auditors

    The Ambassador of Jordan to the EU

    Member of the Royal committee to Modernize the Political System in Jordan

    The list above is drawn up under the exclusive responsibility of the rapporteur for the opinion.

    Where natural persons are identified in the list by their name, by their function or by both, the rapporteur for the opinion declares that he has submitted to the concerned natural persons the European Parliament’s Data Protection Notice No 484 (https://www.europarl.europa.eu/data-protect/index.do), which sets out the conditions applicable to the processing of their personal data and the rights linked to that processing.

     

    PROCEDURE – COMMITTEE ASKED FOR OPINION

    Title

    Macro-financial assistance to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan

    References

    COM(2024)0159 – C9-0146/2024 – 2024/0086(COD)

    Committee(s) responsible

    INTA

     

     

     

    Opinion by

     Date announced in plenary

    AFET

    25.4.2024

    Rapporteur for the opinion

     Date appointed

    Malik Azmani

    14.10.2024

    Date adopted

    30.1.2025

     

     

     

    Result of final vote

    +:

    –:

    0:

    54

    11

    6

    Members present for the final vote

    Mika Aaltola, Lucia Annunziata, Petras Auštrevičius, Jordan Bardella, Dan Barna, Wouter Beke, Robert Biedroń, Ioan-Rareş Bogdan, Marc Botenga, Grzegorz Braun, Sebastião Bugalho, Danilo Della Valle, Özlem Demirel, Elio Di Rupo, Michael Gahler, Geadis Geadi, Giorgos Georgiou, Raphaël Glucksmann, Bernard Guetta, Rima Hassan, Rasa Juknevičienė, Sandra Kalniete, Łukasz Kohut, Rihards Kols, Andrey Kovatchev, Vilis Krištopans, Nathalie Loiseau, Claudiu Manda, David McAllister, Sven Mikser, Francisco José Millán Mon, Arkadiusz Mularczyk, Leoluca Orlando, Kostas Papadakis, Tonino Picula, Nacho Sánchez Amor, Andreas Schieder, Alexander Sell, Villy Søvndal, Davor Ivo Stier, Sebastiaan Stöteler, Stanislav Stoyanov, Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, Michał Szczerba, António Tânger Corrêa, Marta Temido, Cristian Terheş, Riho Terras, Hermann Tertsch, Pierre-Romain Thionnet, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Reinier Van Lanschot, Roberto Vannacci, Hilde Vautmans, Harald Vilimsky, Željana Zovko

    Substitutes present for the final vote

    Malik Azmani, Engin Eroglu, Sandra Gómez López, Evin Incir, András László, Ana Catarina Mendes, Hans Neuhoff, Nicolás Pascual de la Parte, Tineke Strik, Ingeborg Ter Laak, Matej Tonin, Ivaylo Valchev, Isabel Wiseler-Lima, Milan Zver

    Members under Rule 216(7) present for the final vote

    Catarina Vieira

     

    FINAL VOTE BY ROLL CALL IN COMMITTEE ASKED FOR OPINION

    54

    +

    ECR

    Geadis Geadi, Rihards Kols, Arkadiusz Mularczyk, Cristian Terheş, Ivaylo Valchev

    PPE

    Mika Aaltola, Wouter Beke, Ioan-Rareş Bogdan, Sebastião Bugalho, Michael Gahler, Rasa Juknevičienė, Sandra Kalniete, Łukasz Kohut, Andrey Kovatchev, David McAllister, Francisco José Millán Mon, Nicolás Pascual de la Parte, Davor Ivo Stier, Michał Szczerba, Ingeborg Ter Laak, Riho Terras, Matej Tonin, Isabel Wiseler-Lima, Željana Zovko, Milan Zver

    PfE

    András László

    Renew

    Petras Auštrevičius, Malik Azmani, Dan Barna, Engin Eroglu, Bernard Guetta, Nathalie Loiseau, Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, Hilde Vautmans

    S&D

    Lucia Annunziata, Robert Biedroń, Elio Di Rupo, Raphaël Glucksmann, Sandra Gómez López, Evin Incir, Claudiu Manda, Ana Catarina Mendes, Sven Mikser, Tonino Picula, Nacho Sánchez Amor, Andreas Schieder, Marta Temido

    The Left

    Özlem Demirel, Rima Hassan

    Verts/ALE

    Leoluca Orlando, Villy Søvndal, Tineke Strik, Reinier Van Lanschot, Catarina Vieira

     

    11

    ECR

    Sebastian Tynkkynen

    NI

    Grzegorz Braun, Kostas Papadakis

    PfE

    Jordan Bardella, Vilis Krištopans, Sebastiaan Stöteler, António Tânger Corrêa, Hermann Tertsch, Pierre-Romain Thionnet, Roberto Vannacci, Harald Vilimsky

     

    6

    0

    ESN

    Hans Neuhoff, Alexander Sell, Stanislav Stoyanov

    The Left

    Marc Botenga, Danilo Della Valle, Giorgos Georgiou

     

    Key to symbols:

    + : in favour

     : against

    0 : abstention

     

     

     

     

    PROCEDURE – COMMITTEE RESPONSIBLE

    Title

    Macro-financial assistance to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan

    References

    COM(2024)0159 – C9-0146/2024 – 2024/0086(COD)

    Date submitted to Parliament

    8.4.2024

     

     

     

    Committee(s) responsible

    INTA

     

     

     

    Committees asked for opinions

     Date announced in plenary

    AFET

    25.4.2024

     

     

     

    Rapporteurs

     Date appointed

    Céline Imart

    30.9.2024

     

     

     

    Discussed in committee

    14.10.2024

    30.1.2025

     

     

    Date adopted

    20.3.2025

     

     

     

     

    BUDG

    29.1.2025

     

     

     

    Result of final vote

    +:

    –:

    0:

    35

    2

    3

    Members present for the final vote

    Christophe Bay, Brando Benifei, Anna Bryłka, Udo Bullmann, Benoit Cassart, Markéta Gregorová, Bart Groothuis, Céline Imart, Karin Karlsbro, Bernd Lange, Ilia Lazarov, Thierry Mariani, Javier Moreno Sánchez, Ştefan Muşoiu, Daniele Polato, Majdouline Sbai, Lukas Sieper, Dominik Tarczyński, Francesco Torselli, Kathleen Van Brempt, Jörgen Warborn, Iuliu Winkler, Bogdan Andrzej Zdrojewski, Juan Ignacio Zoido Álvarez

    Substitutes present for the final vote

    Mika Aaltola, Nicolas Bay, Markus Buchheit, João Cotrim De Figueiredo, Danilo Della Valle, Borja Giménez Larraz, Vicent Marzà Ibáñez, Marina Mesure, Martin Schirdewan, Kris Van Dijck

    Members under Rule 216(7) present for the final vote

    Hildegard Bentele, Mélanie Disdier, Niels Geuking, Chloé Ridel, Romana Tomc, Matthieu Valet

    Date tabled

    24.3.2025

     

    FINAL VOTE BY ROLL CALL BY THE COMMITTEE RESPONSIBLE

    35

    +

    ECR

    Daniele Polato, Dominik Tarczyński, Francesco Torselli, Kris Van Dijck

    NI

    Lukas Sieper

    PPE

    Mika Aaltola, Hildegard Bentele, Niels Geuking, Borja Giménez Larraz, Céline Imart, Ilia Lazarov, Romana Tomc, Jörgen Warborn, Iuliu Winkler, Bogdan Andrzej Zdrojewski, Juan Ignacio Zoido Álvarez

    PfE

    Christophe Bay, Anna Bryłka, Mélanie Disdier, Thierry Mariani, Matthieu Valet

    Renew

    Benoit Cassart, João Cotrim De Figueiredo, Bart Groothuis, Karin Karlsbro

    S&D

    Brando Benifei, Udo Bullmann, Bernd Lange, Javier Moreno Sánchez, Ştefan Muşoiu, Chloé Ridel, Kathleen Van Brempt

    Verts/ALE

    Markéta Gregorová, Vicent Marzà Ibáñez, Majdouline Sbai

     

    2

    ECR

    Nicolas Bay

    ESN

    Markus Buchheit

     

    3

    0

    The Left

    Danilo Della Valle, Marina Mesure, Martin Schirdewan

     

    Key to symbols:

    + : in favour

     : against

    0 : abstention

     

     

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PRESIDENT OF INDIA IN ODISHA; MAKES DARSHAN AT LORD NILAMADHAB TEMPLE AND GRACES FOUNDATION DAY CEREMONY OF BHARATIYA BISWABASU SHABAR SAMAJ

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 24 MAR 2025 6:10PM by PIB Delhi

    The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu reached Bhubaneswar, Odisha this afternoon (March 24, 2025) from Raipur, Chhattisgarh.

    The President travelled to Nayagarh from Bhubaneswar and made darshan and puja at Lord Nilamadhab Temple. Later, she graced the foundation day ceremony of Bharatiya Biswabasu Shabar Samaj at Kaliapalli. 

    Addressing the gathering at the Kaliapalli, the President said that the spectacular views of this area are very attractive. It has the potential to become a popular tourist destination. She expressed confidence that the development of infrastructure in this area will attract tourists and pilgrims. It will also boost the economy of the area. She urged all to contribute to developing this place and area. She said that everyone should come forward to shape the possibilities of Nayagarh in various fields like agriculture, handicrafts, tourism, etc.

    The President said that a nature-friendly lifestyle is a characteristic of Indian culture. It is also an integral part of tribal life. Tribal brothers and sisters worship forests, trees etc. as gods. According to tribal beliefs, the souls of their ancestors reside in the forest. This belief is great mantra of forest protection.

    The President said that the government is implementing various schemes for empowerment and self-reliance of tribal brothers and sisters while preserving and promoting their art and culture. She urged them to be aware about the welfare schemes and take benefit of those schemes. She said that the government schemes would be successful only with people’s cooperation and participation.

    *****

    MJPS/SR/BM 

    (Release ID: 2114496) Visitor Counter : 92

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Ecological perspective in spatial planning focus of OSCE-supported workshop in Podgorica

    Source: Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe – OSCE

    Headline: Ecological perspective in spatial planning focus of OSCE-supported workshop in Podgorica

    On 20 and 21 March, the parliamentary Committee on Tourism, Agriculture, Ecology and Spatial Planning, together with the OSCE Mission to Montenegro, organized a workshop on the ecological perspective in spatial planning and eco-urbanism.
    The workshop gathered staff from parliamentary committees on tourism, agriculture, ecology and spatial planning; economy, finance and budget; gender equality; anti-corruption, as well as from the parliamentary Research Centre and Commission for Monitoring and Control of the Privatisation Procedure. They discussed legislation regulating eco-urbanism, as well as environmental impacts of planned infrastructure and energy facilities. They considered challenges posed by climate change and examined sustainable urban solutions. Environmental protection, especially in light of the requirements under Chapter 27 – Environment and Climate Change and obligations of Parliament to fulfil these requirements were central to the discussion.
    Opening the workshop, Dejan Đurović, Chairperson of the Committee on Tourism, Agriculture, Ecology and Spatial Planning, emphasized that “the main objective of the workshop is to establish a dialogue to enable us as parliamentarians, to address all deficiencies, obstacles and challenges related to environment protection, while improving and adopting new knowledge in eco-urbanism.”
    The Mission’s Democratization Programme Manager, Bernd Burwitz, noted that while Montenegro is defined as an ecological state, many challenges remain. “In today’s world, climate change and environmental concerns are significant political and security challenges, which should be addressed through the development of the Spatial Plan, that covers the entire territory of Montenegro,” said Burwitz.
    The Mission remains committed to strong collaboration with parliamentary committees and support them in understanding documentation related to spatial planning and its ecological perspectives.

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Global: There’s a global tug-of-war for Greenland’s resources – but the new government has its own plans

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Nicolas Jouan, Senior Defence and Security Analyst, RAND Europe

    Greenland’s parliamentary election was held on March 11 against a backdrop of repeated calls from the Trump administration for America to annex the island. The poll delivered a momentous shift in Greenland’s political landscape as the pro-business Demokraatit (Democrats) emerged as the biggest winners overturning the two left-leaning parties which had formed the previous government.

    Securing nearly 30% of the vote and gaining seven seats for a total of ten in the Inatsisartut (parliament), the party now holds the strongest mandate it has ever had. Close behind was the nationalist Naleraq party, which secured 24.5% of the vote and gained four seats, bringing their total to eight.

    While both parties are united in their rejection of Trump’s ambitions and share a vision of Greenlandic independence, their approaches couldn’t be more different. Demokraatit advocates for a gradual, measured process, prioritising economic development. The party considers that economic self-sufficiency and strengthening domestic infrastructure are key preconditions to achieve independence. Naleraq, on the other hand, is pushing for a rapid break from Denmark. Its line is that Greenland will only be able to unleash its potential, economic and otherwise, once independent.

    Independence has long been the dominant theme of Greenlandic politics. Ever since the territory gained home rule in 1979, most political parties across the spectrum have championed the idea of full independence from the kingdom of Denmark. Even the two major challengers – the Inuit Ataqatigiit, which lost five seats at the election to drop to seven, and the once-dominant Siumut, which lost six and now holds just four seats – are pro-independence.

    But while independence remains a defining issue, the real story of this election is Greenland’s economy. The island is sitting on a treasure trove of rare earth elements, uranium, iron and other minerals critical to global industries. Yet despite decades of interest from foreign investors, strict regulations and environmental concerns have often slowed development.

    With Demokraatit’s rise, that could change. The party is pushing for pro-business policies, including tax incentives, streamlined regulations and reduced state intervention in key industries like mining, fisheries and tourism. If successful, these reforms could transform Greenland into a major player in the global supply chain.

    Despite its electoral gains, Demokraatit faces a challenge in implementing its economic vision. The party’s potential coalition partner, Naleraq, is deeply sceptical of foreign investment, at least when it comes from Denmark and Europe. While open to partnerships with the US, Naleraq is adamant that Greenland must retain full control over its resources, resisting any foreign influence that could compromise national sovereignty.

    This ideological divide could create friction within a potential coalition government. Will Demokraatit’s pro-business agenda be tempered by Naleraq’s nationalistic stance? Or will the promise of economic growth push both parties toward compromise?

    Global powers are watching

    Greenland’s election came at a time when it was already the focus of world attention. Its strategic location and vast resources have attracted growing interest from global superpowers – none more so than the US. Trump has repeatedly expressed interest in acquiring Greenland, a move widely considered unrealistic, but indicative of Washington’s strategic priorities.

    American interest in Greenland isn’t new. The island is home to the Pituffik Space Base, formerly Thule Air Base, since the 1950s as a critical part of North American missile defence and whose Arctic position makes it a key player in both American territorial defence and Nato’s security architecture. Pituffik is the only non-Danish military presence in the territory and is the northernmost American military base.

    But the White House’s rhetoric has taken a more insistent tone, raising questions about whether the US might attempt to exert greater influence over Greenland’s economic and political future. The interest in Greenland seems guided by at least two factors: its strategic position at the centre of the North Atlantic security complex and its economic potential with hard-to-access but abundant resources.

    In both cases, the growing involvement of both Russia and China in the Arctic seem to make the US wary of a potentially independent Greenland getting closer to unfriendly great powers.

    Denmark’s central government is walking a diplomatic tightrope when it comes to responding to the US government’s repeated intentions to annex Greenland. Copenhagen has sought to Europeanise the debate, floating the idea of Greenland joining the European Union. Taking this step would provide welcome economic support to the island but could also clash with Greenland’s scepticism toward European interference.

    Greenland now stands at a crossroads. Domestically, negotiations between Demokraatit and Naleraq will likely shape the trajectory of the island’s economic and independence ambitions. Internationally, major powers – including the US, the EU and possibly even China and Russia – are positioning themselves to engage with Greenland’s untapped potential.

    As the world’s focus on Greenland intensifies, one thing is clear: this Arctic nation is no longer a remote outpost. It is fast becoming a key battleground for economic, political and strategic influence in the North Atlantic.

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

    ref. There’s a global tug-of-war for Greenland’s resources – but the new government has its own plans – https://theconversation.com/theres-a-global-tug-of-war-for-greenlands-resources-but-the-new-government-has-its-own-plans-252396

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI Global: Who gets to brand Puerto Rico: Its tourism agency or its biggest star?

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Carlos A. Suárez Carrasquillo, Associate Instructional Professor in Political Science, Center for Latin American Studies, University of Florida

    The Puerto Rican rapper Bad Bunny is one of the biggest stars of the music world. After becoming Spotify’s most-streamed artist for three years in a row – the first and only artist ever to do so – he sold out all 49 dates of his 2024 U.S. tour, netting US$211 million.

    Earlier this year, after Bad Bunny co-hosted “The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon” and announced a 21-show residency in Puerto Rico, the recently reelected mayor of San Juan, Miguel Romero, quipped that the artist had done a better job of promoting Puerto Rico than the island’s official destination marketing organization.

    That agency, Discover Puerto Rico, was founded in 2017 to market the island to both tourists and investors. Established during the administration of Gov. Ricardo Rosselló, it was part of a broader effort to professionalize Puerto Rico’s place branding and underscored the importance of tourism to the island’s economy.

    As a scholar of Puerto Rican politics and place branding – and a native Puerto Rican – I think this case study raises interesting public policy questions: Who gets to brand Puerto Rico? Why does it matter if a place has a brand anyway? And if political leaders are dissatisfied with an agency whose sole purpose is to market the island, what comes next?

    It’s not just a place – it’s a brand

    Historically, place-branding campaigns have been led by governments seeking to attract tourism and investment. One of the most iconic examples was the “I Love New York” campaign, launched in 1977 as a collaboration between New York City and private partners. Similar public-private models became more common in the decades that followed.

    Puerto Rico has seen various branding efforts over the years. Early boosterism efforts emerged during the first half of the 20th century, and in 1970, the Puerto Rico Tourism Company was created to promote the island as a
    tourist destination. By the 1990s, many Puerto Rican municipalities had begun adopting different place branding strategies.

    During Puerto Rico’s deepening fiscal crisis in the 2010s, branding efforts remained a bipartisan priority. But the two dominant political parties – the pro-territory Partido Popular Democrático, and the pro-statehood Partido Nuevo Progresista – each rebranded the island every time a new administration took office, raising concerns about consistency. The last major government-led initiative before Discover Puerto Rico was the “Isla Estrella” campaign, which included a sponsorship deal with Spain’s Sevilla FC soccer team.

    The ‘Discover Puerto Rico’ era

    In 2017, Discover Puerto Rico took control over the island’s place-branding efforts. However, its performance has been polarizing, with critics pointing to significant blunders. For example, an early ad in its “Live Boricua” campaign sparked backlash for featuring a family that didn’t look like most Puerto Ricans.

    Beyond its marketing blunders, Discover Puerto Rico has struggled to navigate Puerto Rico’s politically charged place-branding landscape. In fact, it has been contested from the start, and remains so, as recently elected Gov. Jennifer González evaluates its future. It remains unclear to what extent efficiency and economic development will serve as the main criteria for evaluating its success, and to what extent party politics will influence the decision-making process.

    Just a day before Mayor Romero made his remark about Bad Bunny, Discover Puerto Rico’s CEO, Brad Dean, resigned, taking a similar role in St. Louis. Dean has argued that during his tenure, Discover Puerto Rico has driven significant increases in tourism and tourism spending. While these self-reported figures suggest success, they don’t address a critical issue – the long-standing political controversy surrounding Puerto Rico’s branding.

    Pop culture carries the weight

    At the same time the future of Discover Puerto Rico remains uncertain, the island has gained unparalleled international attention thanks to popular music.

    Reggaetón, an urban genre that originated in Puerto Rico in the 1990s, has amassed a massive global fan base, extending beyond Puerto Rico and Latin America to the rest of the world. In 2017, Daddy Yankee and Luis Fonsi’s video for the worldwide hit “Despacito” turned La Perla, a working-class barrio in Old San Juan, into a magnet for tourists from all over the world.

    “Despacito” prompted a surge of visits to La Perla, as the French news agency AFP noted.

    More recently, in January 2025, Bad Bunny released his latest album, “Debí Tirar Más Fotos,” which taps into traditional Puerto Rican music genres such as bomba, plena and música jíbara that aren’t usually associated with reggaetón. It charted at No. 1. Bad Bunny also announced a Puerto Rico-exclusive concert series, with some dates reserved for locals and others open to fans worldwide.

    The success of Puerto Rican reggaetón artists raises an important question: Why have these organic cultural movements been so effective – perhaps even more so than the official expert-driven place-marketing agency – in promoting Puerto Rico as a brand?

    I think the answer probably lies in authenticity. Unlike government-led initiatives, reggaetón’s global appeal stems from its cultural resonance and emotional connection with audiences worldwide, regardless of politics.

    At this critical juncture for the island’s tourism agency, perhaps Discover Puerto Rico should rebrand itself as “Discover the Birthplace of Reggaetón.”

    Carlos A. Suárez Carrasquillo 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. Who gets to brand Puerto Rico: Its tourism agency or its biggest star? – https://theconversation.com/who-gets-to-brand-puerto-rico-its-tourism-agency-or-its-biggest-star-248825

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI Global: National monuments have grown and shrunk under US presidents for over a century thanks to one law: The Antiquities Act

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Monica Hubbard, Associate Professor of Public Policy and Administration, Boise State University

    Over 730,000 people visit Colorado National Monument each year. It was established in 1911 under the Antiquities Act. Gordon Leggett, CC BY-SA

    America’s public lands, from its majestic national parks to its vast national forests, are at the heart of the country’s identity.

    They cover more than a quarter of the nation and large parts of the West. Some are crisscrossed by hiking trails and used by hunters and fishermen. Ranchers graze cattle on others. In many areas, the government earns money through oil, gas, timber and mining leases.

    These federally managed public lands have long enjoyed broad bipartisan support, as have moves to turn them into protected national parks and monuments. Research consistently shows that a majority of Americans want their congressional representatives to protect public access to these lands for recreation. One avenue for protection is the creation of national monuments.

    But the status of national monuments can change.

    Presidents have expanded and contracted national monuments, as the U.S. saw with Bears Ears National Monument in Utah over the course of the past three presidencies. The rules for the use and maintenance of various public lands can also change, and that can affect surrounding communities and their economies.

    The U.S. is likely to see changes to public lands again under the second Trump administration. One of the new administration’s early orders was for the Department of Interior to review all national monuments for potential oil and gas drilling and mining. At least two national monuments that President Joe Biden created in California are among the new administration’s targets.

    The avenue for many of these changes is rooted in one century-old law.

    The power and vagary of the Antiquities Act

    The Antiquities Act of 1906, signed into law by President Theodore Roosevelt, gave Congress or the president the authority to establish national monuments on federal land as a means of protecting areas for ecological, cultural, historical or scientific purposes.

    From Theodore Roosevelt on, 18 of the 21 presidents have used the Antiquities Act to create, expand or contract national monuments through a presidential proclamation.

    By using the Antiquities Act to create, expand or reduce national monuments, presidents can avoid an environmental impact statement, normally required under the National Environmental Policy Act, which also allows for public input. Supporters argue that forgoing the environmental impact statement helps expedite monument creation and expansion. Critics say bypassing the review means potential impacts of the monument designations can be overlooked.

    The Antiquities Act also offers no clarity on whether a president can reduce the amount of area protected by prior presidents. The act simply states that a president designates “the smallest area compatible with the proper care and management of the objects to be protected.” This has led to the shifting of national monument boundaries based on the priorities of each administration.

    The Citadel Ruins are the remains of Anasazi cliff dwellings at Bears Ears National Monument in Utah.
    Bob Wick/Bureau of Land Management via Wikimedia Commons

    An example is Bears Ears, an area of Utah that is considered significant to several tribes but also has uranium, gas and oil resources. In 2016, President Barack Obama designated Bears Ears a national monument. In 2017, President Donald Trump signed a proclamation reducing Bears Ears by 80% of its total designated size. The monument’s size and scope shifted a third time when President Joe Biden reestablished Bears Ears to the boundaries designated by Obama.

    In the span of just over five years, the monument was created, reduced, then restored to the original monument designation.

    The uncertainty about the long-term reliability of a designation makes it challenging for federal agencies to manage the land or assure Indigenous communities that the government will protect cultural, historical and ecological heritage.

    Public lands can be economic engines

    National parks and monuments can help fuel local economies.

    A 2017 study by Headwaters Economics, a nonprofit research group, found that Western rural counties with more public land have had greater economic growth, including in jobs and personal income, than those with little public land. National monuments can also benefit neighboring counties by increasing population, income and employment opportunities.

    Even small national monuments provide economic benefits for their surrounding communities. Visitors to Fort Stanwix National Monument in Rome, N.Y., spent $5.3 million in nearby communities in 2023, according to a National Park Service report.
    National Park Service via Wikimedia Commons

    While many counties adjacent to public lands may be dependent on natural resource extraction, the establishment of a national monument can open up new opportunities by expanding tourism and recreation. For example, four national parks and monuments in southeastern Utah, including Natural Bridges, drew about 2.4 million visitors who spent nearly US$400 million in surrounding communities.

    However, when there is uncertainty over whether public lands will remain protected, communities may be hesitant to invest in that future, not knowing whether it will soon change.

    What Congress and the courts could do

    There are a few ways to increase the certainty around the future of national monuments.

    First, lawsuits could push the courts to determine whether the president has the authority to reduce national monuments. Since the Antiquities Act doesn’t directly address presidential authority to reduce monument size, that’s an open question.

    Advocacy groups sued the government over Trump’s authority to shrink Bears Ears National Monument, but their cases were put on hold after Biden expanded the monument again. The U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear other cases in 2024 that argued that a president’s authority to declare and expand national monuments should be far more limited under the law.

    Second, Congress could permanently protect designated national monuments through legislation. That would require presidential approval, and the process would likely be slow and cumbersome. Creating White Clouds Wilderness in Idaho, for example, took decades and a public campaign to have it designated a national monument before Congress approved its wilderness designation.

    Third, Congress could take new steps to protect public lands. For example, a bipartisan bill titled Public Lands in Public Hands Act could block privatization of public lands and increase and maintain access for recreation. One of the bill’s lead sponsors is U.S. Rep. Ryan Zinke, a Republican from Montana who served as Interior secretary during the first Trump administration. Whether the bill will pass and gain the president’s approval remains to be seen.

    Public lands have widespread support

    The Antiquities Act has led to the creation of 163 terrestrial and marine monuments and subsequently the protection of land and waters that hold cultural, scientific or historic significance.

    These monuments tend to have broad support. During the first Trump administration, there were over 650,000 public comments on Trump’s review of national monument creation. An analysis found that 98% of the comments expressed broad support for both the creation and expansion of national monuments.

    Gold Butte National Monument covers nearly 300,000 acres of remote and rugged desert landscape in southeastern Nevada and is popular with hikers.
    Bureau of Land Management

    Public lands are more than just physical places. They are spaces where our ideals and values around public land unify us as Americans. They are quintessentially American – and in many ways define and shape the American identity.

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

    ref. National monuments have grown and shrunk under US presidents for over a century thanks to one law: The Antiquities Act – https://theconversation.com/national-monuments-have-grown-and-shrunk-under-us-presidents-for-over-a-century-thanks-to-one-law-the-antiquities-act-252707

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Ambassador of Republic of Bulgaria presents Credentials to the Secretary-General of ASEAN

    Source: ASEAN

    JAKARTA, 24 March 2025 — Ambassador Tanya Dimitrova Dimitrova presented her Letter of Credence to Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, at the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat today, assuming her post as the Ambassador of the Republic of Bulgaria to ASEAN.

    Secretary-General Dr. Kao congratulated Ambassador Dimitrova on her assumption of duty and reiterated the ASEAN Secretariat’s readiness to work closely with Ambassador Dimitrova and the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in Jakarta. In response, Ambassador Dimitrova reiterated Bulgaria’s strong commitment to developing its relations with ASEAN and ASEAN Member States. 

    Both sides noted the significance of exploring cooperation in areas such as private sector engagement, trade, investment, tourism, connectivity, as well as information technology, including software development and digitalisation.

    Ambassador Dimitrova said, it was a privilege and honour for her to present her Letter of Credence to the Secretary-General of ASEAN. Over the past years, Bulgaria’s cooperation with ASEAN and its Member States has focused on fostering collaboration in various fields, including the economy, trade, education, tourism, and other sectors.  She looked forward to enhancing cooperation in areas of mutual interest to foster stronger relations with ASEAN.

    Bulgaria accredited its first Ambassador to ASEAN in 2009. Ambassador Dimitrova succeeds Ambassador Petar Andonov, who completed his tenure on 30 October 2023.

    ***

    The post Ambassador of Republic of Bulgaria presents Credentials to the Secretary-General of ASEAN appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Rosneft enterprises improve water management efficiency

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Rosneft – Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    World Water Day, established by the UN General Assembly, is celebrated annually on March 22. The date is intended to draw public attention to the importance of preserving fresh water and to emphasize the significance of sustainable management of this valuable resource.

    Rosneft was recognized as the leader in the field of rational use of water resources by the RAEX rating agency based on the results of 2024. The assessment considered the water use indicators of 144 companies from Russia, Kazakhstan and Mongolia. Rosneft became the only Russian oil and gas company that entered the top 10 participants in the rating with the highest level of assessment of rational water consumption indicators, as well as the quality of corporate policies and programs related to water use.

    Rosneft subsidiaries maintain high standards of environmental safety in the area of water resources management in all regions of their presence.

    Samotlorneftegaz is developing a modern technological system for maintaining reservoir pressure, which allows using groundwater and completely abandoning water from open sources. The produced water is thoroughly purified by gravity settling in special tanks and re-enters the reservoir. Thus, the reservoir pressure maintenance system operates in a closed technological cycle. The innovative method was introduced at Samotlor in 2020, which made it possible to reduce water intake from natural reservoirs by about 300 thousand m3.

    RN-Yuganskneftegaz has also made significant progress in optimizing water consumption. In 2024, the company reduced the total volume of water consumption and water intake from natural sources by 6% for the reservoir pressure maintenance system. Such results were achieved due to the effective replacement of traditional water sources with bottom water obtained during the extraction of oil-containing liquid. This not only saves natural resources, but also increases the efficiency of the production process.

    The implementation of environmental programs and the use of resource-saving technologies in the activities of Samaraneftegaz make a significant contribution to the conservation of water resources in the Samara Region. Today, the intake of water from surface water bodies to maintain reservoir pressure has been completely stopped, and the discharge of wastewater into water bodies has been eliminated. Recycled water is used to meet production needs.

    The Samara group of oil refineries – Kuibyshevsky, Novokuibyshevsky and Syzransky plants – provide about 95% of the total water consumption in recycled and repeated-sequential water. In particular, at the Kuibyshevsky Oil Refinery, as part of the environmental program, the recycled water supply units were modernized, the water intake and water pipelines were reconstructed. At the Novokuibyshevsky Oil Refinery, the commissioning of an innovative post-treatment unit with a membrane bioreactor ensured the return of part of the treated wastewater to the recycled water supply system.

    One of Rosneft’s key investment environmental projects in the Republic of Bashkortostan is the biological treatment facilities (BTF) complex of the Ufa group of oil refineries. Since its launch in 2019, 157 million m3 of wastewater have been processed. BTF services not only Bashneft’s oil refineries, but also purifies wastewater from more than 50 enterprises in the northern industrial zone of Ufa and stormwater. The treatment facilities provide the highest level of purification of industrial, stormwater and domestic wastewater, which increases the volume of reused water in technological processes by 2.5 times. Thanks to the membrane reactor technology, all impurities and microorganisms are removed from wastewater. As a result, the water quality meets the standards for water bodies used for fisheries.

    The Achinsk Oil Refinery is also optimizing the operation of the water recycling system, which includes modernizing the water supply network and cooling towers, and automating the operating modes of devices for cooling process water. Thus, over the past two years, the plant has halved its water intake from the Chulym River.

    At the Angarsk Petrochemical Company, due to circulating systems and reuse of water, the intake of water resources from the Angara River, on the banks of which the enterprise is located, amounts to only 11% of the annual consumption volume.

    RN-Yuganskneftegaz also pays special attention to the modernization of treatment facilities. Last year, modern treatment facilities were built at the Moskovtsev field. The new complex provides complete biological treatment of domestic wastewater from various production facilities, including control rooms, water treatment plants, checkpoints, repair and mechanical workshops, and a fire station. After cleaning and disinfection, wastewater is sent to a special reservoir, from where it is pumped back into the formation. The closed cycle of water use not only minimizes the impact on the environment, but also promotes the rational use of natural resources, which is fully consistent with modern environmental standards and principles of sustainable development.

    RN-North-West uses environmental technologies in its work. For water conservation purposes, sensor mixers have been installed at petrol stations, which reduce water losses to 15%. Sanitary protection zones have also been defined for water intake wells. This guarantees the quality and compliance with sanitary standards of water used for consumption at petrol stations.

    Rosneft assesses the level of water resources in all regions where it operates. The company also actively works to increase employee involvement in compliance with environmental requirements, conduct environmental campaigns, and develop a culture of rational and responsible consumption of natural resources. Volunteers from enterprises regularly clean and improve the coastal areas of water bodies, install waste collection containers, and place information stands for tourists about the value of springs and lake ecosystems.

    Responsible attitude to the environment is an integral part of the corporate culture and one of the key principles of Rosneft’s activities. Demonstrating commitment to achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals, the Company implements a comprehensive water conservation program, including the introduction of advanced technological solutions.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft March 24, 2025

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

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by FS at Milken Institute Global Investors’ Symposium Hong Kong (English only)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Speech by FS at Milken Institute Global Investors’ Symposium Hong Kong (English only) 
    Laura (Executive Vice President of Milken Institute International, Ms Laura Deal Lacey), Robin (Chair of Asia, Milken Institute, Mr Robin Hu), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
     
    Good afternoon. I am delighted to join you once again for the Milken Institute Global Investors’ Symposium. Allow me first to express my sincere appreciation to the Milken Institute for bringing this exceptional platform back to Hong Kong for its second edition.
     
    Today, we welcome over 400 senior executives from a diverse array of industries and markets worldwide. The theme for the Symposium this year, “Connecting Global Markets: Partnerships for Resilience”, is particularly timely. In today’s complex global landscape, brimming with challenges and uncertainties, it is clear that we can build resilience and achieve mutual growth only by strengthening connections, forming partnerships and enhancing collaboration. And Hong Kong, as an international financial centre, is uniquely positioned to catalyse this endeavour.
     
    Hong Kong: a resilient city
     
    To begin with, allow me to share with you the remarkable resilience of Hong Kong’s economy and financial markets.
     
    Over the past year, despite external headwinds, Hong Kong’s economy continued to grow steadily, expanding by 2.5 per cent. Inflation remained low at 1.1 per cent. The latest unemployment rate is at 3.2 per cent.
     
    International confidence in our financial markets has evidently strengthened. Last year, bank deposits in Hong Kong rose by 7 per cent, i.e. about US$140 billion. Driven by investments by institutional investors seeking to rebalance their investment portfolio, as well as market enthusiasm ignited by recent tech breakthroughs led by DeepSeek and others, the Hang Seng Index has surged some 20 per cent within a span of three months. This was on top of the increase of 18 per cent in 2024. The average daily turnover of our stock market rose to over US$28 billion in the first two months of this year, a remarkable 70 per cent increase from that of last year.
     
    Our IPO (initial public offerings) market also made a comeback, raising some US$11 billion last year and ranking fourth globally. Now, more than 100 companies are in the pipeline for listing. This year, we are expecting to raise some US$17 to $20 billion.
     
    Just last week, Hong Kong again ranked third in the Global Financial Centres Index, with overall scores catching up to that of the champion New York. In particular, we ranked first globally in “investment management”, “insurance” and “finance”. In fintech, we leapt by five places to fourth in the world.
     
    Besides, Hong Kong was once again ranked as the freest economy in the world, and the fifth most competitive economy. We stay firm as a free port, open to business, and committed to supporting the rules-based multilateral trading system.
     
    Last year, the number of regional headquarters, regional offices and local offices operated by Mainland and overseas companies rose by nearly 10 per cent, reaching an all-time high to around 10 000.
     
    2024 was also a great year for inbound tourism, with visitor arrivals rebounded to 45 million, rising by 30 per cent year-on-year. The surge of visitors highlighted Hong Kong’s charm as a top-notch business and tourism destination.
     
    Beyond numbers, Hong Kong remains an open, vibrant and diverse city. This month marks our “Super March” – with an impressive array of world-class events: from the artistic vibrancy of Art Basel and the spectacular LIV Golf, to the electrifying Hong Kong Sevens and the innovation-driven ComplexCon. Alongside these events, we have global business gatherings such as the Wealth for Good Summit and, of course, this Symposium. These events celebrate and showcase Hong Kong as an international meeting point for finance, culture, sports, creativity and fun! I hope you all can stay a bit longer – until this Sunday – to enjoy these happenings.
     
    Overall, the Hong Kong economy is marching forward steadily with renewed momentum. Let me tell you why.
     
    New Frontiers in Finance
     
    First, we are implementing reforms to strengthen the vitality and competitiveness of our financial markets. Fund-raising is an important function of any IFC (international financial centre), and Hong Kong offers a full range of funding options, from angel investment to private equity to IPOs. We continue to review our listing regime, enhance product offerings and attract more quality issuers and new capital. The goal is clear: to create a more dynamic and attractive capital market that provides diversified opportunities for investors.
     
    Another key area is asset and wealth management. Hong Kong remains one of the world’s prime wealth management centres, managing approximately US$4 trillion in assets. The number of family offices in our city has gone beyond 2 700, with half of them managing assets exceeding US$50 million. By 2028, Hong Kong is anticipated to become the world’s largest cross-boundary wealth management centre. This year, we seek to further enhance the tax concessions for funds and single family offices.
     
    And insurance, too. Hong Kong has the highest insurance density in Asia. The gross premiums of insurers continue to grow, rising by 12 per cent and reaching US$62 billion in the first three quarters last year. What’s more, the Greater Bay Area offers tremendous business opportunities for insurers operating in Hong Kong.
     
    New Markets and New Capital
     
    Second, we are also opening up new markets and new capital channels. Many economies in the Global South have young populations, expanding middle classes and growing investment needs for ambitious infrastructure projects, digitalisation and green transition plans. While Hong Kong continues to treasure and reinforce the relationship with traditional partners in Europe and the Americas, we are forging closer partnerships with emerging economies.
     
    For example, last October we listed two ETFs (exchange-traded funds) tracking Hong Kong stocks on the Saudi Arabia Stock Exchange. We are collaborating with stock exchanges across ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) and the Gulf Region to encourage more quality companies to pursue dual primary or secondary listing in this city.
     
    We believe there is also room to work with emerging economies on more cross-boundary, market connectivity arrangements akin to the Connect Schemes that we have established with the Mainland.
     
    The collaboration between Hong Kong and new markets extends well beyond finance. The tech prowess of Hong Kong and the GBA (Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area) as a whole as well as startups are highly valued around the world. We endeavour to connect them with partners in the emerging economies to foster industry partnership.
     
    To support the matching of capital and projects, we will host the inaugural Hong Kong Global Financial and Industry Summit in June. The event will bring together hundreds of global enterprises, tech firms and funds to drive industrial collaboration through financial empowerment.
     
    And we are strategically placed to help Mainland companies go global. Many Mainland enterprises are realigning their industrial and supply chains across the Global South. They need project and trade financing, corporate treasury services as well as professional consultancy. Hong Kong is ready to offer all that – from global capital and talent, world-class professional services to extensive international connections.
     
    Tech innovation driven by AI (artificial intelligence)
     
    The third of our new economic impetus is innovation and technology, driven by AI in particular.
     
    The rapid development of AI is reshaping the global economic landscape. AI+, which emphasises the deep integration of AI across different industries, is transforming traditional production, businesses and consumption models, very much redefining the core competitiveness of economies worldwide.
     
    In the Government’s Budget delivered a few weeks ago, I outlined the vision for Hong Kong to establish AI as a core industry and to empower the transformation of traditional sectors. Hong Kong has all it takes to thrive on this front.
     
    A unique advantage of Hong Kong is that we serve as a convergence point of both Mainland and international data and talent. Coupled with strong research capabilities of five of our world’s leading universities, we have a strong foundation for cutting-edge AI research and applications. A case in point is the area of life science, where the integration of AI is particularly promising, as it enhances drug design, accelerates clinical trials, and improves patient outcomes through personalised medicine. 
     
    Hong Kong’s ambitions for innovation and technology are more hopeful with our deepening collaboration with the sister’s cities in the GBA, one of the world’s leading innovation ecosystems. The Northern Metropolis, bordering Shenzhen, will serve as the bridgehead for this collaboration. Home to a 300-hectare I&T cluster, it covers the “Loop”, or “Hetao”, where we will experiment with innovative policies that facilitate the safe and orderly flow of people, capital, goods, data and even bio samples with Shenzhen.
     
    To realise these ambitions, we are actively attracting strategic enterprises in four industries to set foot in Hong Kong. They are AI and data science, life and health technology, fintech, advanced manufacturing and new energy. So far we have attracted more than 80 such enterprises, and together they would invest some US$60 billion in our city, creating some 20 000 jobs. 
     
    We also recognise the importance of patient capital. That is why we have established the Hong Kong Investment Corporation (HKIC), which actively guides strategic investments into companies in key sectors at their nascent stage. The HKIC has already invested in more than 90 projects and formed a number of strategic partnerships. For every dollar it invested, it has mobilised four dollars of private capital. Riding on this positive momentum, we are optimistic that Hong Kong will be able to achieve more advancements in the realms of innovation and technology.
     
    Concluding remarks
     
    Ladies and gentlemen, Hong Kong remains one of the world’s most open, dynamic and globally connected financial centres. Our strong fundamentals, resilient economy, unique role as a gateway to the Chinese Mainland and Asia, as well as our great stride to develop financial services and the tech sector, continue to provide unparalleled opportunities for global investors.
     
    May I wish you all the best of business and health in the years to come. Thank you.
    Issued at HKT 14:16

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Experts of the State University of Management awarded the winners of the International Competition “PRO-tourism”

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

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

    On March 20, 2025, at the 31st International Exhibition of Tourism and Hospitality Industry MITT, the Award Ceremony for the winners of the III International Competition “Tourism Code of My Country, City, Town, Region – PRO-tourism” took place.

    A total of 770 participants and scientific supervisors from 85 regions of Russia and foreign countries came to Moscow for the in-person stage. Contestants from Serbia, Bulgaria, Belarus, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan participated for the first time and presented their works in a foreign language, where they considered tourism within the framework of their cultural, ethnographic, and national values.

    The day before, within the walls of the State University of Management, more than 400 participants of the competition defended their works before an expert jury, and 200 scientific supervisors completed the educational program “Methods and technologies for developing the tourism potential of municipalities of the Russian Federation.”

    The children presented their works in 4 age categories and 47 different nominations. The most popular nominations in 2025 were: “History of the country, history of peoples – ethnographic tourism”, “Excursion tourism”, “PRO-tourism video”.

    The winners and prize-winners were 350 participants of the competition, including the winner in the age category of 14-17 years old, the team from Bulgaria, and the second place in the category of 36 years and older was taken by a representative of Serbia. Five winners of the competition in the category of 14-17 years old were awarded vouchers to the International Children’s Center “ARTEK” for the thematic shift “Territory of Development – Urban Environment – Home of Your Dreams”.

    On behalf of the State University of Management, awards and gifts with the university emblem were presented by Associate Professor of the Department of Public and Municipal Administration of the State University of Management, General Director of the ANO “Institute for Local Communities Development” Sergey Kochnev, Associate Professor of the Department of Management in International Business and Tourism Industry, Deputy Director of the Institute for Local Communities Development for Educational Work, Chairperson of the Expert Council of the Competition Svetlana Grishaeva and Head of the Project and Educational Laboratory of Urban Development, Associate Professor of the Department of Public and Municipal Administration Irina Milkina.

    Associate professors of the Department of Public and Municipal Administration of the State University of Management Yulia Lebedeva, Olga Petrina, Mikhail Stadolin, Tatyana Shushunova also acted as experts of the competition, and students of the State University of Management of the first to fourth years helped in organizing and holding the competition.

    Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 03/24/2025

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

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Marat Khusnullin made working trips to Zaporizhia Oblast and Sevastopol

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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    Marat Khusnullin visited Zaporizhia region and the city of Sevastopol on working trips

    Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin visited Zaporizhia Oblast and Sevastopol on working trips. In Melitopol, he checked the progress of construction of a multidisciplinary pediatric medical center, familiarized himself with the current and completed work at the largest university in Zaporizhia Oblast – Melitopol State University, and held a meeting on the socio-economic development of the region.

    “During the meeting, they said that in order to attract people to the Melitopol and Berdyansk agglomerations, it is important to create a modern infrastructure, increasing the volume of housing construction, upgrading housing and communal services facilities, and social facilities. What is encouraging is that positive dynamics are visible in these areas. For example, they are actively working with long-term construction projects. I stopped by one of three such sites on Belyaeva Street in Melitopol. The first house was completed in December last year, and the second is planned to be commissioned in August. In total, there will be about 140 apartments. On my next visit, I hope to see that the construction of investment housing has also begun. They also talked about industrial development, interaction with the Free Economic Zone Territory Development Fund. I looked at how an enterprise producing parts for railway locomotives, motor cars, and rolling stock is working. They are planning to expand the sales market, but they are already sending their products to Penza and Kolomna,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.

    In the multidisciplinary pediatric medical center with an infectious diseases department under the control of the “Single Customer”, work is currently underway on reinforcing and concreting the foundation slab, reinforcing the columns and basement walls, and the construction of internal walls and partitions has already begun in the infectious diseases building. And at the Melitopol State University, builders are repairing academic buildings, dormitories, gyms, canteens, a library, boiler houses and other facilities located on the territory of the university. As a result, a comfortable educational environment will be created for more than 12 thousand students.

    During a working visit to Sevastopol, Marat Khusnullin met with the region’s governor, Mikhail Razvozhaev, and discussed the development of the region with him.

    “Sevastopol is among the leaders of the Southern Federal District in implementing national and federal projects. I consider it extremely promising in terms of housing development, investment attraction, and, of course, tourism. We will continue our comprehensive work within the framework of the national project “Infrastructure for Life”, – the Deputy Prime Minister noted.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Universities – New hi-tech buoys improve south coast scientific monitoring – Flinders

    Source: Flinders University

    The introduction of new Spotter buoys to measure wave height and direction, and temperature in the sea off Victor Harbor in South Australia, provides a timely new resource to monitor fluctuating sea conditions and their effect on coastal environments.

    As unusually warm ocean temperatures for this time of year have triggered peculiar and destructive brown foam (believed to be triggered by microalgal blooms) to be washed up along the southern coastline, the new buoys will provide crucial data to inform stakeholders and the public on changing ocean conditions.

    The buoys, released into Encounter Bay and the Southern Ocean in early March by Flinders University’s Associate Professor Graziela Miot da Silva and new PhD student Maya Lambert, working in conjunction with the South Australian Research and Development (SARDI) Oceanography team and Victor Harbor Council Coastal Surveillance Officer Bronson Symmonds, gather critical information on wave and ocean temperature changes driven by climate change.

    The deployed buoys are Sofar Spotter metocean buoys, that collect and transmit accurate ocean data such as wave height, period and direction, estimates in wind speed and direction, plus sea surface temperature and barometric pressure in real-time via cellular data transfer.

    “This will provide good baseline data about coastal waters that has been lacking, and there has never been a better time to have more information about this stretch of ocean,” says Associate Professor Miot da Silva, part of Flinders University’s Beach and Dune Systems (BEADS) Lab.

    “There has been a significant gap in wave information available to researchers, managers, developers and policy makers. These buoys will make a huge difference.”

    The real-time wave data collected by this project will allow for the development of validated data-assimilating wave- and morphodynamic models to predict future changes in South Australia’s coastline, including climate change and sea level rise.

    “The intent of the research is to find better ways to manage this coast and to mitigate the risk to private and public assets on the coastline,” says Professor Patrick Hesp, head of Flinders University’s Beach and Dune Systems (BEADS) Lab.

    “The provision of accurate wave data is critical to improve understanding of variations in the hydrodynamic processes that shape coastlines, to inform best coastal management practices, drive the development of marine industries, and to promote and support tourism.”

    Data from the Spotter buoys – which will be maintained and processed thanks to a three-and-a-half-year Enterprise Industry scholarship funded by Victor Harbor Council and Flinders University to Flinders student Maya Lambert – will help local governments to forge better solutions for coastal protection.

    Access to real-time wave data aids research and provides valuable information necessary for informing daily marine operations, such as dredging, navigation and sea conditions for commercial and recreational fishermen, plus search and rescue operations, and water-based research and monitoring programs.

    This work in Encounter Bay is a collaboration between Flinders University, SARDI (the research arm of the Department of Primary Industries and Regions), and several district councils will provide long-term monitoring with real-time wave and sea surface temperature data to better understand coastal processes in the region, and help predict the future of the state’s coastlines.

    The project builds on existing coastal research being done by Flinders University, SARDI, the Department of Environment and Water, and the Integrated Marine Observing System (IMOS) national Coastal Wave BuoysFacility with data being gathered from an extended network of wave buoys extending across the state from Robe to Ceduna.

    Access to this data is also freely available to the public through the www.sawaves.org website – a site that has quickly become popular with commercial and recreational marine users to check accurate wave conditions across the state.

    • The Coast Protection Board co-funds the Flinders PhD scholarship and contributed cash to the Council of Victor Harbor to purchase the wave buoy and maintain it via a Coast Protection Grant.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News