NewzIntel.com

Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI: Radware Schedules Conference Call for Its First Quarter 2025 Earnings

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TEL AVIV, Israel, April 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Radware® (NASDAQ: RDWR), a global leader in application security and delivery solutions for multi-cloud environments, will announce its first quarter results on Wednesday, May 7, 2025.

    Conference Call Details
    Radware management will host a call on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, at 8:30 a.m. EDT to discuss its first quarter 2025 results and outlook for the second quarter of 2025. Participants are advised to join the call approximately 15 minutes before the start time.

    US: 1-877-704-4453 (toll free)
    International: 1-201-389-0920

    In addition, the call will be webcast live on the Company’s website at http://www.radware.com/ir/investor-events/.

    A replay of the call will be available for seven days, starting two hours after the end of the call, on telephone number 1-844-512-2921 (toll free) or 1-412-317-6671. Access ID: 13752770.

    About Radware
    Radware® (NASDAQ: RDWR) is a global leader in application security and delivery solutions for multi-cloud environments. The company’s cloud application, infrastructure, and API security solutions use AI-driven algorithms for precise, hands-free, real-time protection from the most sophisticated web, application, and DDoS attacks, API abuse, and bad bots. Enterprises and carriers worldwide rely on Radware’s solutions to address evolving cybersecurity challenges and protect their brands and business operations while reducing costs. For more information, please visit the Radware website.

    Radware encourages you to join our community and follow us on: Facebook, LinkedIn, Radware Blog, X, and YouTube.

    ©2025 Radware Ltd. All rights reserved. Any Radware products and solutions mentioned in this press release are protected by trademarks, patents, and pending patent applications of Radware in the U.S. and other countries. For more details, please see: https://www.radware.com/LegalNotice/. All other trademarks and names are property of their respective owners.

    Radware believes the information in this document is accurate in all material respects as of its publication date. However, the information is provided without any express, statutory, or implied warranties and is subject to change without notice.

    The contents of any website or hyperlinks mentioned in this press release are for informational purposes and the contents thereof are not part of this press release.

    Safe Harbor Statement
    This press release includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Any statements made herein that are not statements of historical fact, including statements about Radware’s plans, outlook, beliefs, or opinions, are forward-looking statements. Generally, forward-looking statements may be identified by words such as “believes,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “estimates,” “plans,” and similar expressions or future or conditional verbs such as “will,” “should,” “would,” “may,” and “could.” Because such statements deal with future events, they are subject to various risks and uncertainties, and actual results, expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, could differ materially from Radware’s current forecasts and estimates. Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include, but are not limited to: the impact of global economic conditions, including as a result of the state of war declared in Israel in October 2023 and instability in the Middle East, the war in Ukraine, tensions between China and Taiwan, financial and credit market fluctuations (including elevated interest rates), impacts from tariffs or other trade restrictions, inflation, and the potential for regional or global recessions; our dependence on independent distributors to sell our products; our ability to manage our anticipated growth effectively; our business may be affected by sanctions, export controls, and similar measures, targeting Russia and other countries and territories, as well as other responses to Russia’s military conflict in Ukraine, including indefinite suspension of operations in Russia and dealings with Russian entities by many multi-national businesses across a variety of industries; the ability of vendors to provide our hardware platforms and components for the manufacture of our products; our ability to attract, train, and retain highly qualified personnel; intense competition in the market for cybersecurity and application delivery solutions and in our industry in general, and changes in the competitive landscape; our ability to develop new solutions and enhance existing solutions; the impact to our reputation and business in the event of real or perceived shortcomings, defects, or vulnerabilities in our solutions, if our end-users experience security breaches, or if our information technology systems and data, or those of our service providers and other contractors, are compromised by cyber-attackers or other malicious actors or by a critical system failure; our use of AI technologies that present regulatory, litigation, and reputational risks; risks related to the fact that our products must interoperate with operating systems, software applications, and hardware that are developed by others; outages, interruptions, or delays in hosting services; the risks associated with our global operations, such as difficulties and costs of staffing and managing foreign operations, compliance costs arising from host country laws or regulations, partial or total expropriation, export duties and quotas, local tax exposure, economic or political instability, including as a result of insurrection, war, natural disasters, and major environmental, climate, or public health concerns; our net losses in the past and the possibility that we may incur losses in the future; a slowdown in the growth of the cybersecurity and application delivery solutions market or in the development of the market for our cloud-based solutions; long sales cycles for our solutions; risks and uncertainties relating to acquisitions or other investments; risks associated with doing business in countries with a history of corruption or with foreign governments; changes in foreign currency exchange rates; risks associated with undetected defects or errors in our products; our ability to protect our proprietary technology; intellectual property infringement claims made by third parties; laws, regulations, and industry standards affecting our business; compliance with open source and third-party licenses; complications with the design or implementation of our new enterprise resource planning (“ERP”) system; our reliance on information technology systems; our ESG disclosures and initiatives; and other factors and risks over which we may have little or no control. This list is intended to identify only certain of the principal factors that could cause actual results to differ. For a more detailed description of the risks and uncertainties affecting Radware, refer to Radware’s Annual Report on Form 20-F, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), and the other risk factors discussed from time to time by Radware in reports filed with, or furnished to, the SEC. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made and, except as required by applicable law, Radware undertakes no commitment to revise or update any forward-looking statement in order to reflect events or circumstances after the date any such statement is made. Radware’s public filings are available from the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov or may be obtained on Radware’s website at www.radware.com.

    CONTACTS
    Investor Relations:
    Yisca Erez, +972-72-3917211, ir@radware.com

    Media Contact:
    Gerri Dyrek, gerri.dyrek@radware.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Bilibili Publishes 2024 Environmental, Social and Governance Report

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SHANGHAI, April 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bilibili Inc. (“Bilibili” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: BILI and HKEX: 9626), an iconic brand and a leading video community for young generations in China, today announced that it has published its 2024 Environmental, Social and Governance (“ESG”) Report, available on the Company’s investor relations website at http://ir.bilibili.com. The initiatives and achievements outlined in the report demonstrate Bilibili’s long-standing dedication to creating social value and sustainable development that benefits its users, content creators, employees, partners and other stakeholders.

    “Bilibili strives for more than just commercial success. We are also deeply committed to creating lasting social value,” said Mr. Rui Chen, chairman and CEO of Bilibili. “We uphold high ESG standards in every aspect of our work, from corporate governance to daily operations. Collaborating closely with our content creators, employees, suppliers and partners, we will continue fostering an engaging ecosystem with quality content, driving industry progress through tech and content innovation, spreading positive energy and making a meaningful social impact.”

    Bilibili’s 2024 ESG report provides the Company’s stakeholders with a transparent view of its operations and governance structure, as well as its initiatives supporting positive social change. The report covers content ecosystem enhancement, tech innovation, community engagement, minors’ protection, cybersecurity and privacy protection, content creator and supplier empowerment, talent development, environmental protection, charitable activities, positivity advocacy, corporate governance and more.

    Bilibili’s 2024 ESG Highlights:

    1. Content Ecosystem & User Community

    Bilibili consistently expands its vibrant content ecosystem and refines its cybersecurity measures, offering users a reliable space to explore the content they love. To keep its ecosystem thriving, the Company continuously enhances its product offerings and explores AI applications to optimize user experience, empower content creators and create community value. In 2024:

    • Daily active users approached 104 million, each averaging 102 minutes of daily time spent on the platform.
    • More than 5.1 billion average daily video views were generated, up 19% year over year, with an average of over 40 million users watching consumption-related content each day.
    • Over 90% of Bilibili businesses had received ISO Information Security Management System Certifications.

    2. Content Creator Empowerment

    Supporting content creators is at the heart of Bilibili’s mission. The Company offers content creators a suite of creative tools, strong operational support and diverse monetization opportunities, empowering them to bring their ideas to life, engage with their fans and turn their passion into sustainable success. In 2024, Bilibili:

    • Was home to approximately 4 million monthly active content creators, and nearly 3.1 million content creators earned income via various commercial channels on Bilibili.
    • Helped content creators increase their income through advertising and value-added services by 21% year over year.
    • Curated “Bilibili 2024 UP100” to celebrate the Top 100 Content Creators, nearly 90% of whom have generated content on Bilibili for over five years.

    3. Talent Nurturing and Governance

    Bilibili deeply appreciates its employees’ dedication and is committed to fostering a workplace where talent thrives by investing in employees’ career growth and development. The Company is also committed to business integrity, continuously refining internal governance and risk control under a solid management framework. In 2024, Bilibili:

    • Covered 100% of full-time employees with its comprehensive employee benefits system.
    • Provided multiple training programs to employees, with an average training duration of 35 hours per person.
    • Had no monopoly, extortion, unfair competition or money laundering incidents occur in the Company.

    4. Industry Cultivation

    Bilibili promotes openness and inclusivity, driving sustainable growth across the supply chain, supporting original content creators and their work, and collaboratively building a dynamic open-source community. In 2024, Bilibili:

    • Cumulatively aired more than 640 Chinese anime titles and distributed 98 overseas, expanding the domestic anime industry’s reach.
    • Produced over 170 documentaries and cumulatively aired more than 5,000 documentaries, providing a stage for knowledge-based content to shine.
    • Engaged in more than 60 technology sharing sessions and collaborated with industry partners to build an open-source ecosystem, driving industry-wide progress.

    5. Social Endeavors and Spreading Positive Energy

    Bilibili actively champions social causes and spreads positive energy through quality content, using its platform to raise awareness and drive meaningful change. Bilibili has:

    • Cumulatively launched 101 projects on the Bilibili Charity Platform, inspiring more than 1.07 million users to donate over RMB27 million by the end of February 2025.
    • Helped build 7 rural primary schools, with 7,195 rural students enrolled as of the end of 2024.
    • Granted a total of RMB1.29 million via the Bilibili Happy Scholarship to special enrichment programs by the end of 2024.
    • Engaged a daily average of over 15 million users with science and technology content, fostering a vibrant learning environment.
    • Delighted the platform’s 220 million users with professional knowledge.

    6. Green Philosophy

    Bilibili cares deeply about climate change and embraces its role in protecting the global environment. The Company integrates “green” principles throughout its operations while leveraging its content library to inspire and educate users on environmental protection. In 2024, Bilibili:

    • Further optimized its average actual PUE across all leased data centers.
    • Raised public awareness on environmental protection-related topics, generating 25.3 billion relevant video views, up 100% year over year.
    • Conducted research on employee commuting and business travel to further advance its Scope 3 carbon emissions assessment, examining and analyzing the Company’s carbon footprint.

    The Company’s 2024 ESG report is available in both Chinese and English. To promote environmental conservation, we encourage you to access the electronic version available on the Company’s investor relations website at http://ir.bilibili.com and the HKEX’s website at http://www.hkexnews.hk.

    About Bilibili Inc.

    Bilibili is an iconic brand and a leading video community with a mission to enrich the everyday lives of young generations in China. Bilibili offers a wide array of video-based content with All the Videos You Like as its value proposition. Bilibili builds its community around aspiring users, high-quality content, talented content creators and the strong emotional bonds among them. Bilibili pioneered the “bullet chatting” feature, a live comment function that has transformed our users’ viewing experience by displaying the thoughts and feelings of audience members viewing the same video. The Company has now become the welcoming home of diverse interests among young generations in China and the frontier for promoting Chinese culture across the world.

    For more information, please visit: http://ir.bilibili.com.

    For investor and media inquiries, please contact:

    In China:

    Bilibili Inc.
    Juliet Yang
    Tel: +86-21-2509-9255 Ext. 8523
    Email: ir@bilibili.com 

    Piacente Financial Communications
    Helen Wu
    Tel: +86-10-6508-0677
    Email: bilibili@tpg-ir.com 

    In the United States:

    Piacente Financial Communications
    Brandi Piacente
    Tel: +1-212-481-2050
    Email: bilibili@tpg-ir.com 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: InitVerse Shines at Hong Kong Web3 Festival: Leading the Next Generation of Web3 Infrastructure with Privacy and Innovation

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORTOLA, British Virgin Islands, April 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — One of the world’s most influential events in the Web3 space, the 2025 Hong Kong Web3 Festival, concluded successfully at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre from April 6th to 9th. Co-hosted by Wanxiang Blockchain Labs and HashKey Group, the event attracted over 50,000 attendees, 300+ top industry leaders, and 150 cutting-edge projects. As a pioneering innovator in Web3 infrastructure, InitVerse stood out as one of the spotlight projects at the festival with its strong technical foundation and global strategy. Hakan Sezikli, Chief Business Officer of InitVerse, was invited to participate in several major panel discussions, sharing with global developers and investors how InitVerse is reshaping the future of Web3 through privacy protection and automation.

    Since its debut in 2023, the Hong Kong Web3 Festival has become a key bridge connecting blockchain ecosystems across Asia and Europe. This year’s theme, “Web3 Globalization: Technology, Compliance, and Innovation,” brought together notable guests such as Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin, Binance founder CZ, and Telegram CEO Pavel Durov. Covering hot topics like infrastructure, DeFi, and AI+Web3, the event once again positioned Hong Kong—Asia’s first Web3 event with full government support—as a magnet for global capital and innovation. InitVerse’s participation not only highlighted its globally competitive technical solution but also marked a strategic step forward in the Asia-Pacific region.

    On the main stage and across various sub-events, InitVerse showcased the core strengths of its next-generation Web3 infrastructure to developers worldwide. Built on the INIChain blockchain, InitVerse is an all-in-one platform committed to offering full-lifecycle solutions for DApps—from development to deployment and scaling. Thanks to its technological innovation, InitVerse has already garnered significant attention from industry media and top-tier investment institutions.

    During the panel discussion titled “AI + DePIN: New Possibilities for All Things,” InitVerse CBO Hakan Sezikli remarked:

    “The core contradiction facing current cloud and AI ecosystems lies in the imbalance between data utilization and privacy protection. InitVerse’s TfhEVM technology combines Fully Homomorphic Encryption (TFHE) with the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM), delivering a highly secure, private, and fully functional decentralized computing environment. This allows developers to run AI models directly on encrypted data—without needing to decrypt the original information. This breakthrough is crucial for fields like healthcare and finance, where compliance and trust are paramount.”

    InitVerse adopts a modular architecture, separating the INIChain base layer, privacy computing layer, and AI service layer. This ensures decentralization and security while allowing INICloud to dynamically scale computing resources. Developers can flexibly access computing power based on their needs, ensuring DApps maintain high performance even during traffic surges.

    In the forum, Hakan Sezikli further elaborated on InitVerse’s technical vision and community ecosystem. He emphasized that InitVerse’s tech roadmap always seeks a balance between decentralization, performance, and usability. He also revealed that InitVerse is collaborating with multiple institutions to build the next generation of encrypted applications.

    The Hong Kong Web3 Festival marks the third stop in InitVerse’s 2025 globalization strategy. With the unique value of its technology stack, InitVerse has drawn attention from top institutions including **HashKey Capital**, and plans to expand its global influence through the following events:

    • Jakarta, Indonesia (April 12): Community meetup with local leaders to explore the Southeast Asian market
    • Moscow (April 23): First appearance at the Eastern European Blockchain Forum, pushing for enterprise collaborations in Russian-speaking markets
    • Dubai (April 30): Participation in Token2049, expanding into regulated financial use cases in the Middle East
    • (More locations are being planned and will be announced soon)

    InitVerse’s globalization efforts are not only reflected in technology deployment but also in its ongoing efforts to build a decentralized community. Through incentive programs and outreach, the official community grew by over 2,000 new members during the event—demonstrating the market’s strong demand for privacy technology.

    The 2025 Hong Kong Web3 Festival once again proved that the future of Web3 belongs to projects that can balance technical innovation with real-world needs. With TFHE encryption, modular architecture, and AI empowerment, InitVerse is offering developers the ultimate toolkit for privacy and performance. As Hakan Sezikli aptly put it during the panel: “If the future of AI is private, encrypted, and decentralized—InitVerse is building it.”

    About InitVerse

    the next-generation platform designed to simplify the development, deployment, and scaling of decentralized applications (DApps). Powered by INIChain, an advanced blockchain infrastructure, InitVerse provides a secure, efficient, and scalable ecosystem for Web3 projects.By leveraging INIChain’s robust blockchain processing and dynamic scalability, InitVerse offers developers a complete solution for the entire DApp lifecycle. From secure deployment to seamless scaling, InitVerse makes Web3 development accessible and efficient for developers at all levels.

    Contact:
    Sami Yilmaz
    support@inichain.com

    Disclaimer: This press release is provided by INIChain. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in crypto and mining related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector–including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining–complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release.Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose.Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility.

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/cb84d6a8-b0fb-4af1-be8c-82286818edf9

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/19392f2e-a984-4521-a29c-5a106600fff9

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: ASEAN to showcase “Building Bridges” at World Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan

    Source: ASEAN

    JAKARTA, 9 April 2025 – The ASEAN Secretariat today announced its participation in the World Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan, during a press conference held at its headquarters. The Expo, themed “Designing Future Society for Our Lives,” will take place from 13 April to 13 October.

    The press conference commenced with opening remarks from Deputy Secretary-General (DSG) of ASEAN for Community and Corporate Affairs and Commissioner-General of ASEAN Secretariat at the World Expo Nararya Soeprapto, alongside Ambassador Kiya Masahiko, Ambassador of Japan to ASEAN. This was followed by a live report from the ASEAN Expo team in Osaka and a Q&A session with the media.

    “It is with great pleasure that we announce ASEAN’s participation in the World Expo 2025 Osaka,” stated DSG Nararya. “The World Expo, administered by the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE), serves as a crucial platform for nations to collaborate on addressing global challenges. ASEAN’s presence underscores our commitment to a more integrated, resilient, and people-centered region.” It is also an important year when the ASEAN Vision 2045 is expected to be adopted.

    Ambassador Kiya Masahiko expressed Japan’s strong support for ASEAN’s participation in the Expo and encouraged people from ASEAN to take this opportunity to visit the Expo and explore the rest of Japan.

    ASEAN’s participation, themed “Building Bridges,” aims to foster connections with participating countries, organisations, and the public. The ASEAN Pavilion will showcase the region’s diversity and dynamism, highlighting its role as a key trade and investment destination, and promoting its rich cultural heritage. The ASEAN Pavilion will be officially opened by Secretary-General of ASEAN Dr Kao Kim Hourn.

    “The ASEAN Pavilion will feature its cooperation initiatives, including the ASEAN-Japan partnership, interactive games like the ASEAN Trail Challenge, and captivating cultural and musical performances,” he further added. “We are also excited to commemorate the 58th ASEAN Day on August 8 both here and in Osaka, celebrating the enduring friendship between ASEAN and Japan.

    ”The ASEAN Secretariat highlighted its gratitude to Japan for their valuable assistance and support, emphasising that its participation embodies the spirit of “wa” (harmony) and “ikigai” (purpose), aligning with the ASEAN Community’s values and principles.

    “With the support of our associated entities, centres, and stakeholders, we strive to make the ASEAN Pavilion a beacon of collaboration and innovation,” DSG Nararya concluded. “As Commissioner-General of ASEAN for the Osaka Expo 2025, I look forward to welcoming everyone to our pavilion.

    ”ASEAN’s participation in the World Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan is supported through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF)

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Verizon & Green Bay Packers Announce Partnership; Plus $3 Million in Vebt Relief

    Source: Verizon

    Headline: Verizon & Green Bay Packers Announce Partnership; Plus $3 Million in Vebt Relief

    MILWAUKEE, WI – Verizon and the Green Bay Packers are announcing a new multi-year partnership agreement leading up to the NFL Draft which will enhance the cell service in and around Lambeau Field, drive innovation for the team and their fans and support the community where Verizon employees and Packers fans live, work, and play. Verizon’s partnership with the Green Bay Packers, makes Verizon the official 5G mobile partner of the team, leading to Verizon playing a critical role in the operations and support of the Packers.

    Today’s announcement also includes a $3 million debt relief initiative for Wisconsin veterans over the next two years, with the initial $1 million being administered within weeks.

    Green Bay Packers Partnership

    Verizon and the Green Bay Packers are partnering to continue to deliver the best 5G Network service for fans on game day and during regular operations at Lambeau Field. “We’re proud to announce our partnership with Verizon, which will help us further enhance the fan experience at Lambeau Field,” said Packers President/CEO Mark Murphy. “By teaming up with Verizon, we can continue prioritizing investments in the stadium’s cellular network to ensure our fans can stay connected on gameday and every day. We are looking forward to having Verizon’s excellent service support our operations at Lambeau Field for years to come.”

    “We’re providing the Packers with the abilities to reach for further innovation, putting this team at the forefront of stadium technology throughout the NFL, all while fans receive great game day service,” said Andrew Brady, Great Lakes Market President.

    One significant change fans will notice is on the stadium’s upper concourse, above the Lambeau Field Atrium. The 6,000 square-foot, climate-controlled gathering space is now named the Verizon Loft. The space includes a full bar and Verizon charging stations so fans can charge their devices. All ticketed guests will have access to the space on gameday, allowing fans to enjoy the game away from the elements with plenty of television screens, tables and chairs. Fans will also notice a greater presence from Verizon on game days and at team events. As the new season kicks off, Verizon will be co-presenting the Packers’ Kickoff Weekend’s game and concert, and the two organizations will partner each season on upcoming community initiatives, reflecting their shared values of giving back to those in need.

    Network Investment for NFL Draft and Beyond

    As Green Bay prepares to welcome an estimated 250,000 visitors over the three-day span of the NFL Draft at Lambeau Field, Verizon is making permanent investments into the area’s network to strengthen the best network service available. Verizon has invested more than $21 million into permanent network upgrades with 5G Ultra Wideband coverage in and around Green Bay and Lambeau Field. At the same time, Verizon teams are installing permanent and temporary infrastructure near Lambeau Field to provide additional capacity at the NFL Draft.

    Veteran Debt Relief

    Many veterans across Wisconsin will soon begin to see more debt forgiveness thanks to Verizon in partnership with ForgiveCo. This debt forgiveness continues Verizon’s investment across Wisconsin after forgiving a previous $1 million last year. “Verizon is proud to expand our commitment to Wisconsin’s veterans, building on our previous $1 million investment,” said Brady. “Forgiving debt is a tangible way to honor their service and sacrifice. We recognize the burdens our veterans carry, and through partnerships like this, we aim to make a life-changing impact. Our dedication to veterans is unwavering, and we are excited to leverage our partnerships to further enhance their wellbeing.”

    Those receiving this debt relief will be contacted by ForgiveCo., a company that identifies and handles the clearing of debt for veterans in need. Veterans across the state will begin receiving outreach from ForgiveCo. in the coming months, with no enrollment process required to benefit. This seamless approach ensures veterans can access relief without additional stress.

    Verizon currently employs more than 8,000 veterans nationwide and is nationally recognized as a Military Friendly company for seven years in a row. Verizon also provides special offers and discounts to veterans and military members across the nation, allowing them to save on mobile or home internet plans. To check for discount eligibility and to get started, visit verizon.com/military or visit a local participating Verizon store for details.

    ForgiveCo is a Public Benefit Corporation that provides business advisory services to corporations, non-profits, and brands for the acquisition, administration, and cancellation of consumer debt, and advisory services in the fields of branding, goodwill creation, and bulk debt management – Transforming debt into goodwill. To learn more about ForgiveCo, please visit forgiveco.com and follow ForgiveCo on all major social media channels.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Ramirez Demands Secretary Noem Resign

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Delia Ramirez – Illinois (3rd District)

    Congresswoman Ramirez’s demand that Secretary Noem step down came after a visit to the southern border, where she saw children facing immigration processing without lawyers

    Washington, DC— Today, Congresswoman Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03) demanded Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem resign immediately, given her abuse of the Department’s power and authority to pursue a campaign of persecution, mass incarceration, and deportation. After a press conference with Congresswomen Rep. Nydia Velázquez (NY-07) and Rashida Tlaib (MI-12) and human rights advocates, Ramirez sent the letter to the Secretary, outlining the violations of rights and criminal actions Noem has allowed.

     

    “Since your appointment, you have disregarded the authority of Congress, the rule of law, the constitutional rights of residents, the courts, due process, and every check and balance that protects us from authoritarianism,” wrote Congresswoman Ramirez. “Under your supervision, DHS has irreversibly harmed Americans. You have exploited your position to weaponize enforcement to detain, deport, and violate people. Your shameful actions have also left children and women vulnerable and without counsel. You have wasted millions of taxpayer dollars to run anti-immigrant campaigns and illegally detain people in offshore prisons without due process. Your intentional criminalization of immigrants and dissenting voices against your deplorable acts threaten the foundations of our democracy.”

    During the press conference that pre-coursed the letter, Congresswoman Ramirez outlined that Americans have paid more than just the human price for Noem’s criminal actions. Taxpayers have also paid $200 million for an anti-immigrant ad campaign, $46 million to illegally detain people in off-shore prisons, and more than $300 million to militarize and end parole and due process at our borders.

    In the letter, Congresswoman Ramirez, a member of the Homeland Security Committee, explains that she has tried on multiple occasions to receive answers from Noem, but those efforts have gone unanswered. “I cannot allow you to continue to violate the rights of the people, undermine due process, and misuse our resources. You are one of the greatest threats to our national security,” continued the member. 

    For the full text of the letter, CLICK HERE

    For photos of the press conference, CLICK HERE

    For a live of the press conference, CLICK HERE

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Trastuzumab deruxtecan approved to treat adults with HER2-positive cancer that has spread or cannot be removed by surgery 

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    Trastuzumab deruxtecan approved to treat adults with HER2-positive cancer that has spread or cannot be removed by surgery 

    As with all products, the MHRA will keep its safety under close review.

    The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has today (9 April 2025) approved trastuzumab deruxtecan (Enhertu) to treat people with solid tumours that have mutations in human epidermal growth factor 2 (known as HER2 positive cancers) that have spread to other parts of the body (metastatic disease) or cannot be removed by surgery (unresectable), and who have no alternative treatment options.  

    This approval is an extension to the indication (use) of the medicine, which has previously been approved for the treatment of adult patients with unresectable or metastatic HER2-positive breast cancers, who have received two or more prior anti-HER2-based regimens for non-small cell lung cancer with an activating HER2 mutation and HER2-postivie gastric cancer. 

    Trastuzumab deruxtecan has been approved through Project Orbis, a global partnership between the MHRA, the Therapeutics Goods Administration in Australia, Health Canada, the Health Sciences Authority in Singapore, Swissmedic, Agência Nacional de Vigilância Sanitária in Brazil and Israel’s Ministry of Health, coordinated by the US Food and Drug Administration.  This programme reviews and approves promising cancer drugs, helping patients to access treatments more quickly.    

    As with any medicine, the MHRA will keep the safety and effectiveness of trastuzumab deruxtecan under close review. Anyone who suspects they are having a side effect from this medicine are encouraged to talk to their doctor, pharmacist or nurse and report it directly to the Yellow Card scheme, either through the website (https://yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk/) or by searching the Google Play or Apple App stores for MHRA Yellow Card. 

    Notes to editors  

    1. The variation to the marketing authorisation was granted on 9 April 2025 to Daiichi Sankyo UK Ltd. 

    2. The aim of Project Orbis is to deliver faster patient access to innovative cancer treatments with potential benefits over existing therapies.  For more information, see: Project Orbis

    3. For more information about cancer, visit: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cancer/ 

    4. More information can be found in the Summary of Product Characteristics and Patient Information leaflets which will be published on the MHRA Products website within 7 days of approval.  

    5. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is responsible for regulating all medicines and medical devices in the UK by ensuring they work and are acceptably safe.  All our work is underpinned by robust and fact-based judgments to ensure that the benefits justify any risks.  

    6. The MHRA is an executive agency of the Department of Health and Social Care.  

    7. For media enquiries, please contact the newscentre@mhra.gov.uk, or call on 020 3080 7651.

    Updates to this page

    Published 9 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: GUU-Auto opens its doors: new recruitment of future drivers starts

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

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

    On April 15, GUU-Auto launches a new training stream under the program “Professional training of drivers of category “B” vehicles.”

    Classes will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays starting at 19:00.

    Hurry while there are still places!

    Additional information by phone: 8 (495) 377 6446, 8 (916) 760 1014 (WhatsApp, Telegram), as well as in the educational department of the UC GUU Auto (room A-219) and on the official page of the UC GUU-Auto

    The GUU-Auto training center is a structural division of the State University of Management, providing paid educational services in professional training programs for drivers of vehicles.

    Subscribe to the tg channel “Our State University” Announcement date: 04/15/2025

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Moldova encouraged to implement findings of Polish-funded critical infrastructure resilience project

    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

    The final meeting of UNDRR’s Polish Aid-funded “Strengthening Critical Infrastructure Resilience in the Republic of Moldova” project called on the government and development partners to take action to protect critical infrastructure from growing disaster risks.

    The United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) and the Ministry of Infrastructure and Regional Development (MIRD) hosted a meeting to present the final findings of the project, gathering key stakeholders, including Secretaries of State from MIRD and other government ministries, the Polish Ambassador, the UN Resident Coordinator, UN agencies, development partners, and international financial institutions.

    Launched in July 2024 with financial support from the Government of Poland, the project applied a global methodology developed by UNDRR and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure to assess the resilience of Moldova’s critical infrastructure, focusing on energy, ICT, transport, and water sectors. Moldova became the first country in Europe and Central Asia to adopt this approach, which has been implemented in Asia-Pacific, Africa, and Latin America.

    Moldova is highly vulnerable to natural hazards such as floods, storms, and droughts, as well as broader impacts of climate change. These risks pose significant threats to critical infrastructure, which is vital for providing essential services and supporting key economic sectors.

    The final meeting in Chisinau brought stakeholders together to advance the risk-informed recommendations from the project’s national roadmap report, aimed at strengthening Moldova’s resilience across sectors and governance levels.

    The roadmap report examines vulnerabilities in critical infrastructure systems against disaster risks, highlighting systemic and cascading impacts, as well as interdependencies during disruptions. It identifies gaps and proposes improvements in policies, regulations, and their implementation, along with areas for enhanced coordination across sectors and governance levels. The report outlines cross-sectoral and sector-specific Resilience Action Plans, balancing short-term preparedness with long-term strategies, aligning with Moldova’s National Disaster Risk Reduction Strategy and the EU National Accession Programme.

    Mr. Corneliu Cirimpei, the State Secretary of the Ministry of Infrastructure and Regional Development said that “effective disaster risk management in Moldova is currently focused more on response, rather than on proactive disaster risk reduction measures, and therefore there is a significant opportunity in updating and harmonizing the regulatory framework to strengthen preparedness and ensure the continuity of essential services in the face of disruptions.”

    H.E. Tomasz Kobzdej, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Poland, underlined the “importance of efforts to strengthen critical infrastructure resilience in the face of complex disaster risks and threats in Moldova”, emphasizing “the linkages of the project recommendations with Moldova’s EU accession process.”

    Ms. Yesim Oruc, UN Resident Coordinator in the Republic of Moldova, welcomed “the findings of this comprehensive initiative as a steppingstone for developing both sectoral and cross-sectoral plans to strengthen infrastructure resilience in Moldova”, underlining “the resilience of critical infrastructure systems and the key services as a prerequisite for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals”

    Ms. Natalia Alonso Cano, Chief of the UNDRR Regional Office for Europe and Central Asia, called for a “whole-of-government and multi-stakeholder approach to advance the priority actions identified in the roadmap report, ensuring continuity and coherence across partners in strengthening infrastructure resilience”, adding that “UNDRR remains committed to supporting Moldova in building its critical infrastructure resilience across sectors, in alignment with national priorities and global best practices.”

    The project was supported by a Technical Working Group co-chaired by UNDRR and MIRD, comprising representatives from six ministries, the State Chancellery, the General Inspectorate for Emergency Situations, and the Agency for Geodesy, Cartography and Cadastre, along with UN agencies and civil society organizations. The initiative included consultations, webinars, and workshops, such as the Stress Test and Resilience Scorecard Workshop held in Chișinău in November 2024, with participation from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development.

    About the project

    Launched in July 2024 with financial support from the Government of Poland, the “Strengthening critical infrastructure resilience in the Republic of Moldova” employs a global methodology developed by UNDRR and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure to assess the level of critical infrastructure resilience, identify gaps, foster collaboration among key stakeholders, and to formulate an implementation plan to enhance governance and investments in infrastructure resilience, in line with government priorities.

    About UNDRR

    UNDRR is the lead agency in the United Nations on disaster risk reduction. It provides leadership, expertise, and tools to enable countries to understand and act on disaster risks before they become disasters. UNDRR’s work is guided by the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030, which aims to achieve a substantial reduction in disaster risk and losses by the year 2030.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong Customs seizes suspected cannabis buds worth over $2.4 million at airport (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    ​Hong Kong Customs yesterday (April 8) detected a drug trafficking case involving baggage concealment at Hong Kong International Airport and seized about 11 kilograms of suspected cannabis buds with an estimated market value of over $2.4 million.
     
    A male passenger, aged 55, arrived in Hong Kong from Bangkok, Thailand, yesterday. During customs clearance, Customs officers found the batch of suspected cannabis buds inside his check-in suitcase. The man was subsequently arrested.
     
    The arrestee has been charged with one count of trafficking in a dangerous drug and will appear at the West Kowloon Magistrates’ Courts tomorrow (April 10).
     
    Customs will continue to step up enforcement against drug trafficking activities through intelligence analysis. The department also reminds members of the public to stay alert and not participate in drug trafficking activities for monetary return. They must not accept hiring or delegation from another party to carry controlled items into and out of Hong Kong. They are also reminded not to carry unknown items for other people.
     
    Customs will continue to apply a risk assessment approach and focus on selecting passengers from high-risk regions for clearance to combat transnational drug trafficking activities.
     
    Under the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance, trafficking in a dangerous drug is a serious offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $5 million and life imprisonment.
     
    Members of the public may report any suspected drug trafficking activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002/en).          

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: EPFO Leverages Enhanced Digital Services for UAN Generation and Activation Using Aadhaar Face Authentication via UMANG App

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 09 APR 2025 1:55PM by PIB Delhi

    The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO), under the Ministry of Labour and Employment has launched a revolutionary step towards digital empowerment by introducing Universal Account Number (UAN) generation and activation using Aadhaar Face Authentication Technology (FAT) through the UMANG Mobile App. This contactless and secure service marks a major leap in providing hassle-free and fully digital experiences to crores of EPFO members.

    Simplifying the UAN Process for Employees

    Until now, UANs were largely generated by employers using employee data submitted to EPFO. While Aadhaar details were validated, inaccuracies in fields such as father’s name, mobile number, or date of birth were common. These errors often required corrections during claim processing or while accessing other EPFO services. In many cases, the UAN was not even communicated to the employee, and mobile numbers were missing or incorrect, making direct communication difficult. Furthermore, UAN activation through Aadhaar OTP validation on EPFO Member portal was a separate process to be completed by the member causing confusion.

    In the financial year 2024-25 alone, out of 1.26 crore UANs allotted, only 44.68 lakh (35.30%) were activated by members. Several reminders were given to employers to get employees to activate their UAN using Aadhaar OTP so that in future any benefit under the Employment Linked Scheme could be potentially provided using DBT.

    New Aadhaar FAT-Based Process: Direct and Secure

    To address these persistent challenges, EPFO has now enabled direct UAN generation and activation using Face Authentication via the UMANG App. This service can be used by both employees and employers and offers several key benefits:

    • 100% validation of Aadhaar and user using Face Authentication.
    • All data of user is pre-populated directly from Aadhaar database.
    • Mobile number of user is matched with mobile registered with Aadhaar.
    • UAN activation on EPFO portal simultaneously completed during generation process.
    • UAN generation directly done by Employee himself/herself and e-UAN card PDF can be downloaded by Employee removing any dependency with Employer.
    • At the time of employment, Employee can hand copy of e-UAN card PDF and UAN to Employer for onboarding with EPFO.
    • Access to EPFO services such as passbook viewing, KYC updates, claim submission, and more are immediately unlocked.

    The process steps are as follows:

    • Download Umang App from Playstore and install.
    • Download AadhaarFaceRD App from Playstore and install.
    • Open UMANG App and go to “UAN Allotment and Activation” under UAN services Through Face Auth.
    • Enter Aadhaar Number and Mobile linked with Aadhaar (this will be matched with Mobile registered with Aadhaar for sending OTP).
    • Tick on Checkbox for consent.
    • Validate OTP received.
    • Camera will be enabled to capture live photo image – Once the color outline of image turns green from red means that image capture is successful (This is similar to how anyone uses Digiyatra app)
    • After matching with image in Aadhaar database, UAN will be generated and sent by SMS to mobile.
    • After generating UAN, the Employee can download the UAN card from the UMANG App or Member Portal (UAN is auto-activated in the Member Portal)

    UAN Activation for Existing Members

    Members who already have a UAN but have not yet activated, can now easily activate their UAN through the UMANG App.

    Enhanced Security Through Biometric Authentication

    Biometric authentication using Face Authentication provides a higher level of security compared to traditional methods such as demographic or OTP-based authentication. It ensures accurate and tamper-proof identity verification at the very entry point into the EPFO system.

    This secure verification will also pave the way for a wide range of self-service options for members, eliminating the need for employer or Regional Office intervention in many future services.

    Employers encouraged to use UAN generation through FAT mode for higher efficiency and lower errors

    Accordingly, employers are advised to adopt and promote this method immediately and assist first-time employees in generating their UANs using face authentication. This will ensure timely and authenticated registration into the EPFO system.

    Collaboration with My Bharat

    EPFO will also promoting digital life certificate through Jeevan Pramaan using the Face Authentication Technology by collaborating with volunteers from MY Bharat to provide services to pensioners at their doorstep shortly.

    ******

    Himanshu Pathak

    (Release ID: 2120326) Visitor Counter : 166

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Joint Meeting of Four Expert Groups of APEC Energy Working Group and associated workshops held in Hong Kong for first time (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Joint Meeting of Four Expert Groups of APEC Energy Working Group and associated workshops held in Hong Kong for first time  
    This joint meeting brings together four expert groups of the APEC EWG for the first time, namely the Expert Group on Energy Data and Analysis, the Expert Group on Energy Efficiency and Conservation, the Expert Group on New and Renewable Energy Technologies and the Expert Group on Clean Fossil Energy. They are being held in conjunction with the APEC Workshop on Promoting Energy Efficiency Enhancement in Electricity Generation and the 8th Oil and Gas Security Network Forum. Over 100 experts and delegates from 18 APEC member economies as well as three international organisations have gathered to share and exchange experiences on topics such as energy security, clean energy, renewable energy, energy efficiency, energy data and analysis, and sustainable development.
     
         Mr Tse said in his welcome remarks that APEC economies consume approximately 60 per cent of the world’s energy. As the member economies pursue rapid and ongoing economic growth and urbanisation, energy demand and carbon emissions in the region will continue to rise, making it crucial to accelerate the transition to green energy, mitigate climate change risks and ensure energy security and sustainable economic development.
     
    He also said that Hong Kong is striving to achieve carbon neutrality before 2050, and will cease using coal for electricity generation by 2035. Hong Kong is actively implementing various decarbonisation measures, including planning infrastructure to import more zero-carbon electricity from neighbouring regions, enhancing energy efficiency in buildings, developing green transportation and promoting hydrogen energy development for achieving a green and sustainable future.
     
         Mr Poon shared Hong Kong’s developments in the field of energy at the meeting. He thanked the APEC member economies for their continuous efforts in combating climate change, and stressed the importance of maintaining a rapport among the members for meeting the challenges from climate change.
     
    Hong Kong has been actively participating in, and hosting meetings of, the APEC EWG and its expert groups, giving full play to the contribution from the energy sector to the economic and social well-being of the APEC region, while mitigating the environmental impact of the energy supply and its use with other APEC member economies. 
    Issued at HKT 16:18

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Online auction of vehicle registration marks to be held from April 24 to 28

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Online auction of vehicle registration marks to be held from April 24 to 28 (5) A VRM can only be assigned to a motor vehicle registered in the name of the purchaser. Relevant information on the Certificate of Incorporation must be provided by the successful bidder in the Purchaser Information of the Memorandum of Sale if the VRM purchased is to be registered under the name of a body corporate.

    (6) Successful bidders will receive a notification email around seven working days after payment has been confirmed and can download the Memorandum of Sale from the E-Auction. The purchaser must apply for the VRM to be assigned to a motor vehicle registered in the name of the purchaser within 12 months from the date of issue of the Memorandum of Sale. If the purchaser fails to do so within the 12-month period, in accordance with the statutory provision, the allocation of the VRM will be cancelled and a new allocation will be arranged by the TD without prior notice to the purchaser.Issued at HKT 15:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PRESIDENT MEETS THE PRIME MINISTER OF PORTUGAL AND THE PRESIDENT OF ASSEMBLEIA DA REPUBLICA

    Source: Government of India

    PRESIDENT MEETS THE PRIME MINISTER OF PORTUGAL AND THE PRESIDENT OF ASSEMBLEIA DA REPUBLICA

    ADDRESSES THE MEMBERS OF THE INDIAN COMMUNITY IN PORTUGAL AT A COMMUNITY RECEPTION

    PRESIDENT LEAVES FOR SLOVAKIA

    Posted On: 09 APR 2025 1:31PM by PIB Delhi

    On the concluding day (April 8, 2025) of her visit to Portugal, the President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu met the President of Assembleia Da Republica (Portuguese Parliament), H.E. José Pedro Aguiar-Branco at Lisbon. They were in accord that regular exchanges between the Parliaments of India and Portugal would boost the people-to-people ties between the two countries. The President also met and held talks with the Prime Minister of Portugal, H.E. Mr Luis Montenegro at Lisbon. During the meeting, both leaders discussed the way forward for further strengthening bilateral relations. They agreed that there are greater opportunities for cooperation in many areas, such as trade and commerce, defence, science and technology, and energy.

    Yesterday (April 8, 2025), President Droupadi Murmu, accompanied by President Marcelo Rebelo De Sousa, visited Champalimaud Foundation in Lisbon and witnessed various research and development initiatives, including in the fields of neuroscience, oncology, experimental clinical research, and automated medicine delivery. The President also had a lively interaction with Indian researchers and scholars working at the Foundation and at other institutions across Portugal. She commended the Indian scholars for their role in deepening India-Portugal collaboration in emerging technologies and scientific research.

    The Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown is a state-of-the-art medical, scientific and technological institution where interdisciplinary clinical care is being developed alongside applied research activities and advanced education programmes.

    Later, the President paid floral tributes at the statue of Mahatma Gandhi and Kasturba Gandhi in Lisbon. She also visited the Radha-Krishna Temple and offered her prayers.

    In the final engagement in Lisbon, the President addressed the members of the Indian Community at a Reception hosted by the Ambassador of India to Portugal.  The accompanying Minister of State, Smt. Nimuben Jayantibhai Bambhaniya as well as Members of Parliament, Shri Dhaval Patel and Smt. Sandhya Ray were present on the occasion.

    Addressing the enthusiastic gathering of Indian community members who had travelled to Lisbon for the occasion from all parts of Portugal, the President said that representing many parts of India and different communities, they not only reflect the diversity of India but also represent the shared values that bind our countries – democracy, pluralism, the spirit of fraternity.

    The President said that their contributions to Portugal, and their efforts to promote Indian culture, make them true ambassadors of our country. She was happy to note that they are achieving success and accomplishments through their hard work and making India proud. She thanked the Government and people of Portugal for welcoming the Indian diaspora and ensuring their safety and well-being.

    The President said that the Government of India is committed to strengthening the bond with its diaspora and ensuring their welfare. The Government has taken several initiatives to support the diaspora in times of crisis. She told members of the Indian diaspora that the Indian Missions abroad are ready to assist every Indian because wherever they are, their motherland is always with them!

    Following the reception, the President departed for the Slovak Republic.

    Please click here to see the President’s Speech – 

     

    ***

    MJPS/SR

    (Release ID: 2120316) Visitor Counter : 88

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: First batch of non-locally trained dentists join DH to provide public service

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    First batch of non-locally trained dentists join DH to provide public service 
    Following the passage of the Dentists Registration (Amendment) Bill 2024 by the Legislative Council in July last year, new pathways were to be introduced to admit qualified non-locally trained dentists. The DH launched a global recruitment drive in the same month. Apart from posting the information on its website, the DH collaborated with the offices outside Hong Kong to organise a series of online briefings and disseminated information to dental institutions and dental associations around the world.
     
    The DH received over 90 applications from non-locally trained dentists and issued 12 letters of appointment after a rigorous selection process. The Dental Council of Hong Kong (DCHK) is actively processing the relevant registration matters. Three of them, after obtaining the DCHK’s approval for limited registration in February this year, took up their appointments with the DH on March 10 this year.
     
    “The DH welcomes non-locally trained dentists to join the team. The three new colleagues have practical experience of practising in the Mainland, the United Kingdom and Australia after obtaining their professional qualifications in dentistry from Mainland and overseas institutions respectively,” said the Consultant in-charge, Dental Services of the DH, Dr Kitty Hse.
     
    “A one-week induction training was provided to these non-locally trained dentists to help them better understand the scope of public dental services in Hong Kong and the duties of government dentists. The three new colleagues, who are proficient in Cantonese, have been assigned to work in government dental clinics with general public sessions to serve the public,” she added.
     
    Dr Hse stressed that the DH will continue to adopt a multipronged approach to the recruitment and retention of dentists, and will maintain close contact with the DCHK to complete the vetting and approval of registration applications from non-locally trained dentists as soon as possible in order to meet the demand for local dental services.
     
    The three newly recruited dentists expressed their honour in being able to utilise their professional knowledge and experience to serve the citizens of Hong Kong. They were particularly pleased to be able to contribute to the place where they grew up and have more time to spend with their families. They noted that the DH’s induction training was comprehensive and practical, covering topics such as infection control, operation of the medical record system and consultation procedures, adding that it has helped them quickly adapt to the work environment. The professional support and teamwork from their colleagues have enabled them to start their work smoothly. Looking ahead, they are eager to develop their careers in Hong Kong on a long-term basis and continue to serve the community with their professionalism.
     
    With the commencement of the amended provisions of the Dentists Registration Ordinance (Cap. 156), new pathways for qualified non-locally trained dentists to come to Hong Kong have been introduced with effect from January 1 this year, including limited registration which is open to all dentists and special registration targeting specialist dentists. Non-locally trained dentists who are selected for full-time employment in specified institutions, including the DH, the Hospital Authority, the University of Hong Kong and Prince Philip Dental Hospital, subject to the approval of the DCHK, can directly practise in specified institutions to better meet the demand for public or subsidised dental services in Hong Kong.
    Issued at HKT 15:45

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – The Ciatti case and the need to strengthen cooperation between Europol and national police forces to tackle transnational violent crime – E-001323/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001323/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Francesco Torselli (ECR), Sergio Berlato (ECR), Carlo Ciccioli (ECR), Giovanni Crosetto (ECR), Alberico Gambino (ECR), Chiara Gemma (ECR), Paolo Inselvini (ECR), Denis Nesci (ECR), Michele Picaro (ECR), Mariateresa Vivaldini (ECR)

    Niccolò Ciatti, a young man from Florence, was brutally killed in Lloret-de-Mar, Spain, in 2017, when he was beaten up and kicked in the head outside a nightclub. His killer, Rassoul Bissoultanov, who was sentenced to 15 years in prison in Spain and 23 years in prison in Italy, is still on the run.

    This case has raised concerns about how effective the coordination between police and judicial authorities is in addressing violent crimes that involve citizens from different EU Member States. Despite the seriousness of the case and the broad media impact, the investigations revealed limitations and delays in transnational cooperation between the competent authorities of the different countries.

    Given that cooperation between Europol and national police forces is not always timely and effective, that transnational violent crime is increasing across the EU and that Europol has a central role in coordinating investigations:

    • 1.What steps will the Commission take to tackle complex transnational violent crimes, such as the Ciatti case, and improve cooperation between Europol and national police forces, including during the stages of investigation and monitoring of defendants?
    • 2.Will the Commission address the limited effectiveness of transnational precautionary measures, including by means of real-time ‘data exchange’ systems for surveillance of defendants, in order to prevent them from going on the run?

    Submitted: 31.3.2025

    Last updated: 9 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Transnational repression in the EU: legal and institutional responses to Iran’s actions – E-001318/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001318/2025
    to the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy
    Rule 144
    Hannah Neumann (Verts/ALE)

    Reports that agents of the Iranian regime have carried out targeted assassinations of Iranian dissidents in Europe raise questions about transnational repression once again. A recently published and subsequently deleted interview[1][2][3] with retired Brigadier-General Mohsen Rafikdust allegedly confirms that the Iranian regime is responsible for political assassinations in European countries, including Germany and France. These new revelations reinforce concerns that Iranian intelligence structures continue to operate actively in EU Member States. In view of the increasing threat of state-sponsored transnational repression, can the Commission answer the following questions:

    • 1.What is the Commission’s current knowledge of transnational repression by Iran in the EU?
    • 2.To what extent are European security authorities specifically monitoring Iranian activities aimed at political assassinations, intimidation or espionage against Iranians in exile, and what measures are in place at EU level to effectively protect Iranians in exile and other dissidents in Member States who are at risk from Iranian transnational repression?
    • 3.To what extent is transnational repression being taken into account in the current negotiations on EU-Iran policy?

    Submitted: 31.3.2025

    • [1] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aWfDgAwI9xU&t=7442s (2:16:40).
    • [2] https://www.iranintl.com/en/202503093512.
    • [3] https://x.com/manelimirkhan/status/1899147743731298585?s=46.
    Last updated: 9 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Over £35 million in Cold Weather Payments support paid this winter

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Over £35 million in Cold Weather Payments support paid this winter

    Over 1.4 million Cold Weather Payments – worth around £35 million in total – were paid this past winter to people in England and Wales, according to statistics released today [09 April].

    • Over 1.4 million Cold Weather Payments were made this past winter
    • This represents around £35 million in support, in addition to other benefits
    • Over £9 million of this was issued to those in receipt of Pension Credit

    Cold Weather Payments are issued to vulnerable households when the average temperature in their local area is recorded as, or forecast to be, zero degrees Celsius or below over seven consecutive days. 

    Those eligible received £25 for each seven-day period of very cold weather between 1 November and 31 March.

    Of those who received a Cold Weather Payment, 385,000 were also in receipt of Pension Credit – equating to around £9 million.

    It comes as the Government’s drive to support low-income pensioners has led to around 50,000 extra Pension Credit awards since the summer – an increase of 64 per cent compared to the same period last year. 

    Minister for Pensions Torsten Bell said:

    We supported millions of households this winter through Pension Credit and Cold Weather Payments, alongside extending the Household Support Fund and the Warm Home Discount. 

    For pensioners, this will have come on top of the State Pension which is set to increase by up to £1,900 over this parliament for millions, thanks to our commitment to the Triple Lock.

    Pensioners who receive Pension Credit automatically qualify for Cold Weather Payments. This is alongside extra support available such as the Household Support Fund, which was extended from 1 April 2025 until 31 March 2026, providing support with the cost of essentials such as food, heating and bills.

    Working age people who receive qualifying benefits such as Universal Credit and Jobseeker’s Allowance can also receive a Cold Weather Payment if they meet further criteria relating to employment, health conditions and caring responsibilities for young children or a disabled child.

    Additional Information

    • A breakdown of Cold Weather Payments issued can be found on gov.uk: Cold Weather Payment estimates: 2024 to 2025 – GOV.UK
    • There have been an estimated 1,402,000 Cold Weather Payments in the year 2024/25.
    • There have been an estimated 220,000 more Cold Weather Payments 2024/25 compared to the 2023/24 season, including an additional 21,000 to those receiving Pension Credit.
    • Eligibility criteria for Cold Weather Payments can be found on gov.uk: Cold Weather Payment: Eligibility – GOV.UK

    Updates to this page

    Published 9 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Home Building Fund — Esquire Developments Ltd

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Case study

    Home Building Fund — Esquire Developments Ltd

    How Homes England supported an ambitious developer based in Kent.

    Home Building Fund Developer Case Study: Esquire Developments Ltd

    Esquire Developments Ltd, an award-winning SME housebuilder, was established in 2011 and currently delivers approximately 120 homes annually across Kent and the South East.

    Esquire Developments approached Homes England to support their project Millers Field, a 1.21-acre site in Maidstone, Kent and we provided a £2.68 million loan to transform the site into 9 attractive family homes.

    Esquire Developments is known for its dedication to quality and sustainability, achieving up to 50% carbon reduction in their developments compared to current building standards. They also prioritise sourcing materials and supply chains locally, and all the homes in this project were equipped with air source heat pumps and electric vehicle charging stations.

    Following the successful completion of Millers Field, Homes England has supported Esquire Developments with a second scheme, Hill Farm in Sittingbourne, which is made up of 30 homes, 3 key worker homes and an overflow carpark for Demelza Children’s Hospice situated next to the development.

    More information about the Home Building Fund can be found on our Home Building Fund — development finance page, or you can get in touch with one of our regional specialists. You can:

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Home Building Fund — The PG Group

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Case study

    Home Building Fund — The PG Group

    A development loan from Homes England helped The PG Group transform a derelict site in Bristol into a vibrant new neighbourhood

    The Carriageworks is a landmark brownfield site in Bristol which has been derelict for the past 30 years. A listed building, it was originally a Victorian commercial building used for the manufacture of horse drawn carriages. Having acquired the site in 2017, the PG Group proposed a place making scheme of apartments and retail units at the site in central Stokes Croft.

    However, the group encountered numerous challenges in bringing the site forward, with rising construction costs, complex planning negotiations, contractor availability, high levels of remediation and a lack of funding options available in the market.

    This is where Homes England stepped in, approving an initial loan to fund the development of 124 new homes and retail commercial units on the ground floor.

    Assisted by close communication with the local community throughout the process, the scheme has proved an unqualified success, with all homes sold and the market square providing Stokes Croft with a new focal point.

    Stuart Gaiger, Managing Director at PG Group, said:

    The Carriageworks has been one of the most technically challenging sites that the PG Group has undertaken. Combining difficult ground conditions, an ambitious scheme delivering residential accommodation and a strong placemaking theme, all delivered on a brownfield site in Bristol’s busy city centre.

    Given the challenges we faced, we were delighted be able to work with the team at Homes England who rapidly became valued partners. Their unique approach allowed us to deliver much needed residential, affordable housing and the community vision for placemaking aspects of the scheme.

    In addition, through support from Homes England we were able to more than treble the number of affordable homes on the site.

    More information about the Home Building Fund can be found on our Home Building Fund — development finance page, or you can get in touch with one of our regional specialists. You can:

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Home Building Fund — V&A Homes

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Case study

    Home Building Fund — V&A Homes

    Watch our film to find out how our funding helped a regional housebuilder to deliver an outstanding waterfront scheme.

    V&A Homes Yorkshire Ltd

    V&A homes is a family-run SME developer based in Harrogate, North Yorkshire. Waterside, a stunning nine-home scheme overlooking the River Nidd, was their second Homes England-supported development. 

    The brownfield site, a former abattoir, is located on a steep waterside location which required complex groundworks to complete the build. Homes England worked closely with the team at all stages to provide both financial and specialist support. 

    Today all three townhouses and six semi-detached homes are occupied, with residents benefitting from spectacular views and outstanding design.    

    Following the success of Waterside, V&A homes is now completing a scheme of homes opposite Thirsk Racecourse and are working on their next scheme which will deliver 60 new homes in Sharow near Ripon. 

    Victoria Denman, Managing Director of V&A Homes said:

    We first worked with Homes England after agreeing a land deal to bring our first development to market. From the outset I found the experience of working with the team extremely supportive. I was guided with care and consideration through the process and given reassurance at all stages. We are now working on a scheme which will deliver 60 homes – our biggest project to date. We wouldn’t have grown as we have without the great partnership we have developed with the agency.

    More information about the Home Building Fund can be found on our Home Building Fund — development finance page, or you can get in touch with one of our regional specialists. You can:

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Home Building Fund — Sky-House Co

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Case study

    Home Building Fund — Sky-House Co

    A development loan from Homes England helped newly-established housebuilder Sky-House Co to grow its business

    Sky-House development

    In 2017, Sky-House was a newly established, Yorkshire-based developer with a vision to create high-quality, urban ‘back-to-back’ housing for the 21st century, complete with balconies, rooftop garden spaces and shared pocket parks. Specifically, it had plans for a new, 44-home community, Waverley, located on a brownfield site, a former colliery, near Sheffield.

    As a new developer the company struggled to secure the finance from the private sector that it needed to bring forward this concept. But Homes England was attracted to the strong place-making ethos of the scheme, its aim to reduce carbon output, and the targeted ownership group of first-time buyers and lower income families and provided £3.2m in development finance.

    The completed scheme was an undeniable success. Sales demand exceeded expectations, and it was well received by the design and development community, with several award nominations.

    Importantly, Homes England was able to help Sky-House to utilise the equity and profit released from Waverley to fund the land acquisition of Oughtibridge Mill. Alongside this, it provided £3.7m of additional development funding.

    The scheme, comprising 40 eco-friendly homes with riverside balconies, private roof gardens and woodland views, is adjacent to a new development by David Wilson homes. The development has already secured two award wins.

    David Cross, Managing Director of Sky House, said:

    It is no understatement to say that without Homes England’s support we wouldn’t have been able to start even our first development.

    From Waverley Phase 1 to Oughtibridge Mill, we will complete 84 homes alongside commercial space, and we now have close to 400 homes and commercial space on the drawing board and a secure pipeline of funding and sites for the next 3 to 5 years.

    By accessing Homes England’s support, we have shifted from developer to housebuilder and now, more importantly, to place maker with close to 40 full and part time staff across the business alongside a growing cabinet of awards. All the team at Homes England have been amazing and we cannot thank them enough- all we can do is keep delivering great homes.

    More information about the Home Building Fund can be found on our Home Building Fund — development finance page, or you can get in touch with one of our regional specialists. You can:

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Home Building Fund — Windyridge Property Investments

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Case study

    Home Building Fund — Windyridge Property Investments

    Watch our film to see how Homes England has supported a new SME developer to deliver a scheme of starter homes in West Bromwich.

    Home Building Fund Developer Case Study: Windyridge

    In March 2022 Homes England supported Windyridge Property Investments, a new entrant SME developer, with a £1.4 million development loan to deliver Sienna Way, a scheme comprising of 9 homes based in West Bromwich. As a first-time developer, Windyridge had experienced numerous funding barriers before receiving support from the Home Building Fund. Funding was legally contracted in 54 days from credit approval, demonstrating Homes England’s ability to provide SMEs access to much needed funding at pace.  

    Our regional team worked closely with the developer to design a flexible funding structure that incorporated possible delays in build completions and generous timeframes to sell the homes.  

    Completed in July 2023, Sienna Way meets the latest energy efficiency standards and provides a high-quality living environment for first time buyers, key workers and young families. Features include private courtyards, electric car charging points and underfloor heating. The scheme uses locally sourced, sustainable products, minimising waste in the construction process. 

    Jatinder Singh Gakhal, Managing Director, Windyridge said:

    As a new SME housing developer, we found securing development funding particularly challenging given the macro-economic factors affecting the construction industry. However, thanks to the team at Homes England, who provided exceptional support and guidance throughout the application process, we swiftly secured a development loan to fully fund our scheme. We strongly recommend SMEs consider Homes England funding to help unlock their future development sites.

    More information about the Home Building Fund can be found on our Home Building Fund — development finance page, or you can get in touch with one of our regional specialists. You can:

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: World Health Organization confirms MHRA to continue playing vital role in ensuring the quality of global biological medicines  

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    World Health Organization confirms MHRA to continue playing vital role in ensuring the quality of global biological medicines  

    The World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed the successful redesignation of the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA)’s Science and Research group as one of its Collaborating Centres for the Standardisation and Evaluation of Biologicals for the next four years.   

    This is critical for the work this group at the MHRA does on behalf of the WHO to develop, produce and distribute physical standards that are applied to assure the quality of biological medicines. 

    Biological medicines, such as vaccines, are among the most important medicines available in preventing killer diseases. Increasingly, newly developed biological medicines will play an important role in global healthcare, opening up many possibilities for the prevention or treatment of disease and illness. The work the Science and Research group at the MHRA does for WHO helps to ensure that patients across the world receive biological medicines of the highest quality. 

    The Science and Research group at the MHRA, and formerly the National Institute for Biological Standards and Control (NIBSC), was granted its first designation back in 1954, and is one of only four institutes worldwide that WHO designates as a custodian laboratory for its International Biological Reference Preparations.   

    MHRA Interim Executive Director for Science and Research Nicola Rose is the Head of the Collaborating Centre. Nicola said:

    Biological medicines are an increasingly important part of healthcare. Our role as the UK medicines regulator is to make sure the medicines people take are of an acceptable quality. 

    Standards allow both the public and medical practitioners to have confidence in the quality of the medicines they use. 

    Standards also can help enable manufacturers make use of new and innovative technologies – ensuring patients receive the most advanced treatments possible.

    MHRA experts carry out four main responsibilities:  

    • Supporting WHO in developing, producing, and distributing international standards and reference materials for quality control and assurance of clinically relevant biological materials.  

    • Conducting collaborative research to assure the quality of vaccines and other biologicals.  

    • Providing technical input that may inform WHO when developing international written standards and guidelines for production and quality control of vaccines and other biologicals.  

    • Contributing to WHO’s regional work to assure the quality and safety of vaccines and other biologicals through the provision of technical support and technical assistance to build capacities.

    Updates to this page

    Published 9 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Salford City Council launch new healthy families programme, HAPPI

    Source: City of Salford

    • Healthy, Active, Positive, Purposeful and Inspired programme give families the support they need to make simple lifestyle changes
    • Ten-week course focuses on overall health management by setting up healthy habits around food, exercise and lifestyle choices
    • Compassionate, supportive and non-judgmental approach to drive more effective outcomes

    Small changes to your lifestyle can make a big, positive impact on health and wellbeing. Salford City Council has launched a new free Healthy Families Programme, HAPPI, which has been designed to help promote a more compassionate and holistic approach to overall healthy living.

    Developed to overcome the growing public health issues that families are managing, the Health Improvement Team at Salford City Council will work with families to deliver a ten week practical, solution-focused course. It will provide parents and children the support they have been asking for to establish healthy habits around food, exercise and lifestyle choices.

    Instead of taking a traditional approach that focuses purely on weight loss as the desirable outcome, the new programme takes a more holistic and forward-thinking approach. It aims to cultivate a deep sense of body awareness, fostering self-acceptance and a positive relationship with one’s physical and mental well-being. By focusing on evidence-based lifestyle strategies, the programme empowers individuals and families to embrace sustainable habits that promote long-term health. This comprehensive initiative is designed to create meaningful, lifelong health benefits for the whole family, encouraging vitality, balance, and resilience across generations.

    Faced with widening health inequalities and major public health issues such as obesity and mental health that are significantly increasing pressure on the NHS, research consistently highlights the increasing need for greater intervention so that people can pursue their own health goals and are fully supported to do so, without judgement or assumptions.

    Amidst growing health disparities and escalating public health challenges such as obesity and mental health crises, the strain on the NHS has reached unprecedented levels. Compelling research underscores the urgent and escalating need for robust, targeted interventions to empower individuals to take control of their health and well-being. Without decisive action, these challenges will only continue to intensify, placing an unsustainable burden on healthcare services and society as a whole

    For Salford, those findings include:

    • In Reception Year, 21.7% of children are overweight or obese, this is significantly worse than the national rate of 9.6%   
    • In Year 6, 40.7% of children are overweight or obese, which is significantly worse than the national rate of 22.1%.  

    (Public Health England, National Child Measurement Programme, 2023/34, school year)

    Councillor Mishal Saeed, Executive Support Member for Social Care and Mental Health at Salford City Council said: “It’s great to see this programme being launched! There’s no need for New Year resolutions to commit to living a more heathier lifestyle and improve overall family and child health and wellbeing. The HAPPI Programme gives families the support, resources and confidence that help to focus on health gain in a positive way.
     
    “Our Health Improvement Team has a strong track record of delivering community-based health activities and programmes, which is why I would highly recommend HAPPI to all considering a healthier lifestyle. Developing healthy habits and good emotional wellbeing isn’t just for adults – it’s a family affair.”

    As part of Salford City Council’s vision to create a fairer, greener, healthier and more inclusive city for all, one of the council’s Corporate Plan priorities for 2024 to 2028 is to create healthy lives and quality care for all, which is fully aligned with the objectives that the HAPPI Programme aims to achieve.

    Share this

    Date published
    Wednesday 9 April 2025

    Press and media enquiries

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Museums can now apply for £20 million of funding to invest in their future

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Museums can now apply for £20 million of funding to invest in their future

    Treasured civic museums supported with new £20 million grant to help safeguard access to local culture and secure their futures

    • Funding will ensure museums can continue to serve communities, care for and share collections, and tell our national story at a local level
    • Support will boost access to culture, delivering the government’s Plan for Change by increasing opportunities for all

    Museums across England can now apply for a share of £20 million to safeguard community access to their collections and invest in upgrading their services. 

    The new £20 million Museum Renewal Fund, which is now open to applications, is designed to support valued regional museums, with a local authority link. It will improve public access to collections and buildings, as well as community and educational programmes which will help ensure they are fit for the future.

    These museums help keep memories alive across generations through their broad, diverse public collections. As well as being a crucial resource for schools, they help communities to connect with their local story by highlighting an area’s distinctive industrial, archaeological, natural and artistic heritage.

    The money will boost community programmes, support and grow schools activities, driving more visitors to museums. It will also enhance revenue generation, investing in organisational change and IT upgrades, whilst also supporting jobs in the local community. 

    This follows the announcement from the Culture Secretary last month of the £270 million Arts Everywhere Fund, delivering on the Government’s Plan for Change to boost economic growth and increase opportunities for people across the country.

    Arts Minister Sir Chris Bryant said:

    Our local and civic museums are the storytellers of our nation’s history, with a shared mission to educate, inspire and entertain. 

    They are key to preserving our national heritage at a local level through their collections and creative programmes, which draw in thousands of people from across the country, driving the growth and opportunity central to our Plan for Change. I am delighted that we have been able to provide this support, helping them to continue to flourish. 

    The programme will be delivered by Arts Council England and will run from April 2025 until March 2026. It will be open to regional and local museums, with a funding or governance link to a local authority, across England to support them to safeguard access and services and invest in resilience measures. 

    The government is committed to working in partnership with local councils and leaders, as co-investors in culture. 

    Sir Nicholas Serota, Chair, Arts Council England, commented:

    Regional museums make a vitally important contribution to the way people engage with culture where they live and gain a deeper understanding of their communities and place. It is therefore vital that access to their collections is protected for generations to come. The Museum Renewal Fund will help these cherished institutions address immediate pressures and enable them to look ahead and plan a sustainable future serving their communities.

    Notes to editors: 

    • In February, Culture Secretary, Lisa Nandy announced more than £270 million in funding for arts venues, museums, libraries and the heritage sector in a major boost for growth. 

    • The online portal to apply for the Museum Renewal Fund will open at 10am on 9 April 2025. Full guidance, including eligibility criteria and details of how to apply can be found on the Arts Council England website. 

    • This Fund is intended to safeguard public access to nationally and regionally significant collections at risk, as set out in the eligibility criteria. Museum Renewal grantees will be expected to undertake additional work to boost business and financial sustainability beyond 31 March 2026.

    Updates to this page

    Published 9 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Orenburgneft’s environmental investments in 2024 exceeded 3 billion rubles

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

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

    Orenburgneft (part of the Rosneft oil production complex) allocated more than 3 billion rubles for environmental protection activities in 2024, which is almost 13% more than the previous year. The funds were used to implement the gas investment program, improve the reliability of pipelines, reclaim land, improve the efficiency of industrial waste disposal, resource conservation, reforestation and maintain the biodiversity of water resources.

    As part of the target gas program, in 2024 the main process equipment was installed at the gas compressor station of the Donetsk-Syrtovskoye field, and the construction of gas pipelines of the Eastern group of fields is being completed. These measures will allow additional volumes of associated petroleum gas to be sent to the Buzuluk gas processing plant, where the gas is prepared to commercial quality and a wide fraction of hydrocarbons is separated from it – a valuable raw material for the petrochemical industry.

    Investments in the implementation of the pipeline reliability improvement program ensured the planned replacement of pipeline sections, repair and inhibition of pipes. Stable operation of the field infrastructure is ensured, among other things, by diagnostics using modern devices.

    The company is implementing resource-saving technologies. Last year, Orenburgneft reduced energy consumption by 6.8 million tons of equivalent fuel, which contributed to improving the environmental performance of production. Key initiatives included optimizing the operation of pumping equipment in reservoir pressure maintenance systems, upgrading downhole submersible equipment in oil production, and reengineering ground infrastructure.

    The enterprise provides environmental monitoring of natural components. Regular sampling of atmospheric air, water, and soil is carried out in the territories where production activities are carried out. Methane emissions are monitored using advanced technical means.

    Orenburgneft uses modern technologies for recycling industrial waste. The resulting secondary products are re-involved in industrial use. The company’s volunteers contribute to preserving the environment. For several years, employees have been organizing the collection of used plastic and waste paper. Schoolchildren from the region participate in environmental campaigns of oil workers. In 2024, more than 12 tons of secondary raw materials were sent for recycling through joint efforts.

    Employees carry out volunteer campaigns to clean up the territories of the cities where they are present and the coastal zones of water bodies, and organize clean-up days. Over the past three years, oil workers have planted about 3 thousand young pines, firs, lindens, and birches. Together with activists from the “Movement of the First,” oil workers cleaned up the territory of the Dendrosad in the Buzuluksky Bor National Park. Earlier, with the support of the company’s employees, a tourist trail was laid in the reserve, which is integrated into the network of ecological trails of the National Park.

    The company’s environmental performance has been repeatedly noted at various levels. In the regional competition “Leader of Economy”, “Orenburgneft” has been recognized as the winner in the nomination “Leader of Environmental Responsibility” for over 10 years.

    Reference:

    JSC Orenburgneft, a subsidiary of NK Rosneft, carries out production activities in the Orenburg, Samara and Saratov regions. Cumulative oil production exceeds 470 million tons.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft April 9, 2025

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Hunger hotspots in South Sudan at tipping point as food insecurity nears record levels

    Source: World Food Programme

    WFP/Samantha Reinders. Child eats a meal of walwal (porridge made from waterlily flour)  with his family, Bentiu South Sudan.

    JUBA, South Sudan – Vulnerable families in the northeast of South Sudan are at a critical tipping point as conflict escalates and hunger nears record levels, the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) warned today.

    This is an update on food security and WFP operations in the affected regions.

    Food Security Situation

    • As the pre-harvest lean season begins in South Sudan, almost 7.7 million people face levels of hunger categorised as crisis, emergency, or catastrophic (IPC3+). This is close to record highs. 
    • Some 3.1 million of these people are in the conflict-hit Greater Upper Nile region in South Sudan’s northeast. 
    • The northern part of Greater Upper Nile region (Upper Nile state) is the most impacted by the escalation of conflict; one million people there face high levels of hunger. 
    • More than 1.1 million people have fled to South Sudan since the beginning of the Sudan war, most arriving in Upper Nile. Almost half of those currently facing catastrophic (IPC5) levels of hunger in South Sudan are returnees from Sudan. 
    • WFP is aiming to bring food assistance to more than 450,000 people in Upper Nile state, prioritizing those facing emergency and catastrophic levels of hunger (IPC4 + 5), but active conflict is slowing progress. 
    • The United Nations Humanitarian Air Service (UNHAS), managed by WFP, continues to provide passenger and cargo flights to conflict-affected locations in Upper Nile. This vital airbridge is essential to ensure support continues to reach people in Upper Nile state.
    • WFP has more than 9,000 metric tons of food – enough to feed more than one million people for a month – in the northern town of Malakal, with additional food in Bor and the capital Juba.
    • Upper Nile state has also been heavily impacted by a cholera outbreak. The WFP-led Logistics Cluster has airlifted 35 metric tons of cholera and WASH supplies to conflict-affected locations with another three metric tons ready for transport. 
    • Another 148 metric tons of nutrition and shelter/protections supplies planned for river transport by the Logistics Cluster are currently in Malakal awaiting delivery when security allows.
    • Insecurity has forced WFP to pause distributions in six counties in the region for the safety of our staff, partners and the people we serve. WFP and partners have the food ready to deliver and distribute once conditions allow.
    • Increased tensions and fighting along the rivers used by WFP as supply routes is hindering the transport of food assistance for Upper Nile state.
    • The safety of staff, the people we support, and humanitarian supplies and assets, is paramount. We have no choice but to pause operations in areas where there is a risk to any of these.
    • WFP has a US$396 million funding shortfall for the rest of 2025.

    WFP Response and Food Stocks

    • WFP is aiming to bring food assistance to more than 450,000 people in Upper Nile state, prioritizing those facing emergency and catastrophic levels of hunger (IPC4 + 5), but active conflict is slowing progress. 
    • The United Nations Humanitarian Air Service (UNHAS), managed by WFP, continues to provide passenger and cargo flights to conflict-affected locations in Upper Nile. This vital airbridge is essential to ensure support continues to reach people in Upper Nile state.
    • WFP has more than 9,000 metric tons of food – enough to feed more than one million people for a month – in the northern town of Malakal, with additional food in Bor and the capital Juba.
    • Upper Nile state has also been heavily impacted by a cholera outbreak. The WFP-led Logistics Cluster has airlifted 35 metric tons of cholera and WASH supplies to conflict-affected locations with another three metric tons ready for transport. 
    • Another 148 metric tons of nutrition and shelter/protections supplies planned for river transport by the Logistics Cluster are currently in Malakal awaiting delivery when security allows.

    Access challenges

    • Insecurity has forced WFP to pause distributions in six counties in the region for the safety of our staff, partners and the people we serve. WFP and partners have the food ready to deliver and distribute once conditions allow.
    • Increased tensions and fighting along the rivers used by WFP as supply routes is hindering the transport of food assistance for Upper Nile state.
    • The safety of staff, the people we support, and humanitarian supplies and assets, is paramount. We have no choice but to pause operations in areas where there is a risk to any of these.

    Funding

                                                                                                                                               #                 #                  #

    The United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters and the impact of climate change.

    Follow us on X, formerly Twitter, via @wfp_SouthSudan

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 9 April 2025 Departmental update WHO maternal and perinatal health guidelines: easier, faster and interactive

    Source: World Health Organisation

    All guidelines on maternal and perinatal health of the World Health Organization (WHO) are now available online on MAGICapp, a dynamic digital platform designed to streamline access to the most up-to-date, evidence-based recommendations. The use of this digital platform ensures that maternal and perinatal health guidelines remain relevant and adaptable to new research findings as soon as they become available. This means that users can access the evidence behind each recommendation. By providing a digital platform as a one-stop shop for all guidelines, health-care workers and policy makers stay informed, enabling them to quickly adapt practices, enhance decision-making, and deliver high-quality, evidence-based care.

    Every two minutes, a woman dies from complications related to pregnancy or childbirth, most of which are preventable or treatable. To reduce maternal mortality and support respectful care during pregnancy, birth and the postnatal period, WHO has issued more than 300 maternal and perinatal health recommendations, informed by more than 250 systematic reviews.

    These guidelines are essential for improving health outcomes; they translate the most accurate evidence into practical actions that help prevent complications, reduce mortality and improve the quality of care for women and newborns. For women and their families, this means safer pregnancies, fewer life-threatening complications, better recovery after birth and healthier starts in life for their babies.

    MAGICapp, developed by the MAGIC Evidence Ecosystem Foundation, offers health-care professionals and policymakers an interactive and user-friendly way to access WHO recommendations in real time. The platform gained popularity and use within WHO following its application during the COVID-19 pandemic, where it allowed continuous update of recommendations as new evidence became available. The use of this digital platform ensures that maternal and perinatal health guidelines remain relevant and adaptable to new research findings as soon as they become available.

    The shift towards living guidelines enables WHO to rapidly disseminate updates on maternal and perinatal health recommendations. The application improves guideline accessibility for clinicians, researchers and health policymakers by allowing users to quickly navigate key recommendations as well as the evidence that underpins them. 

    Digital innovations like this have the potential to transform how care is delivered, helping to ensure that more women and newborns benefit from timely, evidence-informed decisions that can save lives and improve long-term health outcomes.

    Dr Olufemi Oladapo / Head of MPH Unit at WHO and HRP

    “Having all of WHO’s maternal and perinatal health guidelines available on an interactive platform was a significant undertaking and a big step forward,” said Dr Olufemi Oladapo, Head of the Maternal and Perinatal Health Unit at WHO and the UN Special Programme in Human Reproduction (HRP). “Digital innovations like this have the potential to transform how care is delivered, helping to ensure that more women and newborns benefit from timely, evidence-informed decisions that can save lives and improve long-term health outcomes.”

    The use of digital tools in clinical decision-making enhances the consistency and quality of care delivered across different settings. By providing easily accessible recommendations, the platform supports frontline health-care workers to provide up-to-date evidence-based care that will lead to better health.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatal crash: Newbury Line, Bunnythorpe

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police can confirm one person has died following a crash in Bunnythorpe this morning.

    Police were called to the crash, involving a truck and a van, at the intersection of Newbury Line and Te Ngaio Road at around 10:10am.

    The driver of the van died at the scene. The passenger of that vehicle was taken to hospital with serious injuries. The truck driver was uninjured.

    The circumstances of the crash are under investigation.

    The road has since reopened.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –