Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE Tucson, multiagency case results in Nigerian national pleading guilty to international fraud scheme targeting the elderly

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    TUCSON, Ariz. — A Nigerian national pleaded guilty recently to operating a transnational inheritance fraud scheme that defrauded elderly and vulnerable consumers across the United States. Multiple federal agencies including U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Consumer Protection Branch and members of the Homeland Security Taskforce are investigating the case.

    “Transnational fraud schemes thrive in the shadows, turning illicit gains into a facade of legitimacy, especially those involving seniors or other vulnerable people,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations Arizona acting Special Agent in Charge Ray Rede. “HSI and our law enforcement partners commitment to investigate criminals who steal money sends a clear message: justice will prevail, and those who exploit others for personal gain will be held accountable. We thank all our partners who assisted in this investigation.”

    According to court documents, Ehis Lawrence Akhimie, 41, was a member of a group of fraudsters that sent personalized letters to elderly victims in the United States over the course of several years. The letters falsely claimed that the sender was a representative of a bank in Spain and that the recipient was entitled to receive a multimillion-dollar inheritance left for the recipient by a family member who had died overseas years before. Akhimie and his co-conspirators allegedly told a series of lies to victims, including that, before they could receive their purported inheritance, they were required to send money for delivery fees, taxes, and other payments to avoid questioning from government authorities. Akhimie and his co-conspirators allegedly collected money victims sent in response to the fraudulent letters through a complex web of U.S.-based former victims, whom the defendants convinced to receive money and forward to the defendants or persons associated with them. Victims who sent money never received any purported inheritance funds. In pleading guilty, Akhimie admitted to defrauding over $6 million from more than 400 victims, many of whom were elderly or otherwise vulnerable.

    “The Justice Department’s Consumer Protection Branch will continue to pursue, prosecute and bring to justice transnational criminals responsible for defrauding U.S. consumers, wherever they are located,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate, head of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “This case is testament to the critical role of international collaboration in tackling transnational crime. I want to thank the members of the Postal Inspection Service and Homeland Security Investigations, as well as the National Crime Agency and Crown Prosecution Service of the United Kingdom for their outstanding contributions to this case.”

    “The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is committed to protecting American consumers from being defrauded by transnational criminal organizations,” said acting Postal Inspector in Charge Bladismir Rojo for the U.S. Postal Inspection Service Miami Division. “We have long partnered with the Department of Justice’s Consumer Protection Branch to deliver justice and we will continue to do so.”

    On June 17, Akhimie pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud. Akhimie faces a maximum penalty of 20 years’ imprisonment.

    This is the second indicted case related to this international fraud scheme. Seven other co-conspirators from the United Kingdom, Spain, and Nigeria have previously been convicted and sentenced in connection with this scheme. On Nov. 1, 2023, the Honorable Kathleen M. Williams sentenced Ezennia Peter Neboh, who was extradited from Spain, to 128 months of imprisonment. On Oct. 20, 2023, Judge Williams sentenced another defendant who was also extradited from Spain, Kennedy Ikponmwosa, to 97 months of imprisonment. Three other defendants who were extradited from the United Kingdom also received prison sentences. Judge Williams sentenced Emmanuel Samuel, Jerry Chucks Ozor, and Iheanyichukwu Jonathan Abraham to prison sentences of 82 months, 87 months, and 90 months, respectively, for their roles in the scheme. Amos Prince Okey Ezemma was paroled into the United States from Nigeria and was sentenced in July 2024 to 90 months imprisonment for his role in the scheme. Lastly, on April 25, the Honorable Roy K. Altman sentenced Okezie Bonaventure Ogbata, who was extradited from Portugal, to 97 months of incarceration for his role in the scheme.  

    Senior Trial Attorney and Transnational Criminal Litigation Coordinator Phil Toomajian and Trial Attorney Josh Rothman of the Justice Department’s Consumer Protection Branch are prosecuting the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida, the Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service, and authorities from the U.K., Spain, and Portugal all provided critical assistance.

    If you or someone you know aged 60 or older has been a victim of financial fraud, help is standing by at the National Elder Fraud Hotline: 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311). This U.S. Department of Justice hotline, managed by the Office for Victims of Crime, is staffed by experienced professionals who provide personalized support to callers by assessing the needs of the victim and identifying relevant next steps. Case managers will identify appropriate reporting agencies, provide information to callers to assist them in reporting, connect callers directly with appropriate agencies, and provide resources and referrals, on a case-by-case basis. Reporting is the first step. Reporting can help authorities identify those who commit fraud and reporting certain financial losses due to fraud as soon as possible can increase the likelihood of recovering losses. The hotline is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET. English, Spanish and other languages are available.

    More information about the Department’s efforts to help American seniors is available at its Elder Justice Initiative web page. For more information about the Consumer Protection Branch and its enforcement efforts, visit Consumer Protection Branch. Elder fraud complaints may be filed with the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov or at 877-FTC-HELP. The Department of Justice provides a variety of resources relating to elder fraud victimization through its Office for Victims of Crime.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Security: Longtime VA Contracting Officer Sentenced to Over Five Years in Prison for Defrauding the Agency of More Than $500,000

    Source: US FBI

    For Years, Defendant Directed Projects, Contracts to Shell Co. Set Up With His Paramour

    PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that Ahmed Hassan, 71, of Collegeville, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today by United States District Judge John F. Murphy to 64 months’ imprisonment and three years of supervised release for defrauding his employer, the Department of Veterans Affairs (“the VA”), of over $500,000. The defendant was also ordered to pay $565,058.70 in restitution, with $150,000 of that restitution due in 30 days, and a $2,200 special assessment.

    Hassan was charged by indictment in April 2021. After a one-week trial in October of 2024, a federal jury convicted the defendant of 22 counts of wire fraud for misusing his VA position to steal from the agency.

    As proven at trial, Hassan was a trusted supervisory engineer at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center (“VA Medical Center”) in Philadelphia. In that position, Hassan was responsible for all mechanical and large HVAC systems at the Medical Center and was further charged with overseeing and implementing contracts in his area of responsibility.

    From approximately 2013 through October 2017, Hassan schemed to defraud the VA by drafting and submitting for payment, false invoices of a shell company called HT Mechanical. But unbeknownst to Medical Center management, and in violation of Hassan’s duties to the VA, HT Mechanical was a fraudulent entity that Hassan had secretly set up with his then-paramour, Lynn Hanrahan[1] — a social worker with no knowledge of, or expertise in, HVAC or mechanical systems — in order to defraud the VA.

    For years, the defendant made up fake work, drafted false invoices on HT Mechanical letterhead, submitted them for payment to the VA under the VA purchase card program, and lied to the VA, claiming that the work had been done, when the so-called jobs did not exist, and no work was performed. After the VA made payment to HT Mechanical based on the defendant’s lies, his paramour returned the payments to the defendant, either by check or by giving the defendant envelopes of cash.

    “Fraud against the government hurts us all,” said U.S. Attorney Metcalf. “It heightens the cost of public services and threatens their availability to deserving citizens. In this case, out of sheer greed, Ahmed Hassan thoroughly betrayed the veterans the VA exists to serve and stole from American taxpayers. Today’s sentence shows that criminals who cheat the U.S. government will pay for it, in the end.”

    “This sentencing demonstrates that those involved in defrauding VA, particularly VA employees in positions of public trust, will be held accountable,” said Special Agent in Charge Christopher Algieri with the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General’s Northeast Field Office. “The VA OIG will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to ensure the integrity of VA’s programs and services.”

    The case was investigated by Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General and the FBI, and is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Megan Curran and Assistant United States Attorney Mary E. Crawley.
     


    [1] Hanrahan was charged in a related scheme, pleaded guilty, and was sentenced on January 8, 2025.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Striking images highlight impact of public interruption to military training

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    Striking images highlight impact of public interruption to military training

    The new campaign turns the table on the issue of public interruptions to military training exercises

    Soldiers take over a hair salon in a new safety campaign. MOD Crown Copyright.

    Soldiers sprinting through a salon, abseiling into gyms and crawling through offices feature in a striking new campaign by the Ministry of Defence, turning the tables on the issue of public interruptions to military training exercises.  

    The new photo campaign features thought-provoking images of soldiers unexpectedly interrupting civilians at work, highlighting the disruption this would cause.  

    Aldershot was chosen for the campaign following continued disruptions to training exercises by members of the public straying onto the training area. These incursions force critical military training exercises to be paused or even cancelled, impacting how our personnel can be prepared for potential deployments. 

    While some areas of the MOD estate are accessible to the public at certain times, it is primarily an area for essential military training. It is vital that our Armed Forces can carry out training exercises uninterrupted, now more than ever after the government announced a move to ‘warfighting readiness’ in the recently published Strategic Defence Review.  

    The photo series is part of the MOD’s Respect the Range campaign to warn of the potential dangers of accessing military land when and where not permitted. 

    An office is interrupted by training soldiers in the campaign. MOD Crown Copyright.

    Lt Col Jens Gronn, Defence Training Estate Regional Commander for the South East, said: 

    Military training areas are workplaces for our Armed Forces where they develop the vital skills they need to keep our nation safe. As the UK moves towards enhanced warfighting readiness, it’s more important than ever that training exercises can proceed without disruption.  We welcome responsible public access but ask visitors to respect this critical training and steer clear of any military activity for everyone’s safety.

    Members of the public can access military land, but only when and where permitted to do so, and are asked to follow these guidelines:  

    • If you come across military training, stay at least 100m away and never touch military equipment or kit.  

    • Risks to the public include pyrotechnics and ammunition, fast-moving military vehicles with limited visibility, deep water with hidden dangers and legacy unexploded ordnance.  

    • Observe all signs and information and always conform to instructions from MOD personnel.  

    • Be aware that training can be happening at all times of the day and night; just because you can’t see it, doesn’t mean it’s not happening  

    • Keep dogs under close control, always in sight and pick up after them.  

    • Never touch any military debris and report it to the Ops room on 01429 483405 for safe removal.  

    • Do not light fires or use BBQs, and dispose of cigarettes and litter responsibly.  

    • If you encounter a wildfire don’t attempt to put it out yourself – call 999 and ask for the fire and rescue service. 

    For further information visit: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/safe-access  

    The campaign shows a gym class interrupted by training soldiers. MOD Crown Copyright.

    This year’s hot weather has increased the risk of wildfires on the MOD estate. These can also interrupt military training and pose a risk to Armed Forces personnel and the public. The MOD is working closely with Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service and asking the public to help support critical military training by acting responsibly to reduce the risk of wildfires on the MOD estate in the South East.  

    A spokesperson from Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service said:  

    It is important that we all work together to help prevent fires, keep our communities safe and to protect our countryside. To help prevent wildfires this summer we’d ask the public not to light fires or use BBQs, and to dispose of cigarettes and litter responsibly.

    If you encounter a wildfire don’t attempt to put it out yourself – call 999 and ask for the fire and rescue service.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Boom in passenger travel reported at Jimunai checkpoint on China-Kazakhstan border

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    URUMQI, July 17 (Xinhua) — The incoming and outgoing passenger flow through Jimunai Port in Jimunai County in northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region has exceeded 49,000 times this year as of July 15, according to local border control data.

    During the reporting period, 12 thousand vehicles passed through this checkpoint on the Chinese-Kazakh border, the data showed.

    According to Yang Chun, a manager at a local travel agency, the number of cross-border tour groups has increased significantly. He said his company, which offers various tour routes lasting from 1 to 30 days to Kazakhstan, organized tours for car tourists using 28 vehicles in May and June this year.

    The boom in cross-border travel is driven by the implementation of a mutual visa-free regime between China and Kazakhstan, which came into effect in November 2023.

    The visa-free policy makes cross-border travel more convenient, said Aytosh Makhmet, a tourist from Almaty, Kazakhstan, who plans to travel to Burchun County and Urumqi City in Xinjiang and other places during his stay in China.

    The county’s Department of Culture, Sports, Radio, Television and Tourism is working to develop new cross-border tourism products that integrate tourism resources from China and Kazakhstan, allowing domestic travelers to Xinjiang to also enter Kazakhstan through the Jimunai checkpoint, said Liu Shurong, an official with the department. -0-

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Specialized forums dedicated to Central Asia added to Xinjiang International Mining Expo

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    BEIJING, July 17 (Xinhua) — The organizing committee of the Xinjiang International Mining and Machinery Expo said on Thursday that two specialized forums dedicated to Central Asia will be added to the event, which will be held from July 18 to 20, 2025.

    The first forum will be devoted to issues of cooperation between Central Asia and the Silk Road countries in the mining industry, while the second will discuss issues of development of the mining industry in the context of the construction of the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway.

    According to Hu Yaoguang, Secretary General of the Organizing Committee of the Expo, 2025-2026 have been declared the “Years of High-Quality Development of China-Central Asia Cooperation.” Within the framework of this cooperation, six priority areas have been approved: unimpeded trade, industrial investment, infrastructure connectivity, “green” mining, agricultural modernization, and people-to-people exchanges. This creates political support for the successful implementation of the projects.

    According to him, the second China-Central Asia summit was recently held in Astana /Kazakhstan/, during which China and the five Central Asian countries reached a number of cooperation agreements, giving new impetus to interaction in the region. Against this background, the addition of two Central Asian forums to the Xinjiang Mining Expo is aimed at further deepening and specifying China’s multilateral cooperation with the Central Asian countries.

    The mining industry is one of the key sectors in the Central Asian economy and an important area of cooperation between China and the countries in the region. Since its establishment, the Xinjiang Mining Expo has always paid great attention to building a platform for mining exchanges between China and Central Asia.

    Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region /Northwest China/, as a key area of the Silk Road Economic Belt and with the geographical advantage of a common border with Central Asian countries, serves as a frontier for cooperation in the mining industry. The construction of the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway, a landmark cooperation project between the three countries under the Belt and Road Initiative, will dramatically improve the region’s transport and logistics conditions, opening up new opportunities for cooperation in the mining sector. -0-

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Over 2 million rare fish fry have been released into the Irtysh River in China this year

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    BEIJING, July 17 (Xinhua) — A total of 2.085 million fingerlings of five rare fish species, including common taimen, burbot and Siberian grayling, have been released into the Irtysh River basin in Altay Prefecture of northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region this year, according to the region’s department of agriculture and rural affairs.

    As the department added, approximately 1.2 million more fry of three species of commercial fish were released into Lake Urungu on the territory of the district this year.

    This is a key step in the efforts of local authorities to restore and protect aquatic biological resources, as well as improve the ecological environment of water bodies, the department said in a statement.

    The Altai District has six national-level zones for the conservation of aquatic product germplasm resources, where 360 million fish fry can be grown per year. Thanks to the ecological restoration system formed with the release of fish fry as one of the main methods, the fish population in the district increased by 10 percent year-on-year in 2025, the department noted.

    The water quality in the Irtysh River basin has remained at class I for the third year in a row, said department official Qu Hong.

    Let us recall that the Irtysh River flows through the territories of three countries: Kazakhstan, Russia and China. It originates from the southern slope of the Altai Mountains, flows into the Ob and carries its waters to the Arctic Ocean. -0-

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Gaza war: UN officials warn of unspeakable conditions as children bear the brunt

    Source: United Nations 2

    Tom Fletcher, the UN Emergency Relief Coordinator, said there was no “vocabulary” left to adequately describe conditions on the ground.

    Food is running out. Those seeking it risk being shot. People are dying trying to feed their families. Field hospitals receive dead bodies, and medical workers hear stories firsthand from the injured – day after day after day,” he said.

    Starvation rates among children reached their highest levels in June, with more than 5,800 girls and boys diagnosed as acutely malnourished.

    “Last week, amid this hunger crisis, children and women were killed in a strike while waiting for the food supplements to keep them alive.”

    UN Emergency Relief Coordinator Tom Fletcher briefs the Security Council

    A classroom full of children, lost every day

    UNICEF’s Executive Director Catherine Russell told ambassadors that an average of 28 children are killed in Gaza every day – “the equivalent of an entire classroom.”

    Over the past 21 months, more than 17,000 children have been killed and 33,000 injured across Gaza.

    Many of those children, she said, were struck “as they line up for lifesaving humanitarian aid – further proof that there is no safe place for civilians anywhere in Gaza.”

    Children are not political actors. They do not start conflicts, and they are powerless to stop them. But they suffer greatly, and they wonder why the world has failed them,” she added.

    “And make no mistake, we have failed them.”

    Critical infrastructure collapse

    Gaza’s health system “is shattered,” Mr. Fletcher reported – only 17 of 36 hospitals and 63 of 170 primary health centres are even partially functioning; shortages mean up to five babies share one incubator.

    Seventy per cent of essential medicines are out of stock, half of all medical equipment is damaged, pregnant women are giving birth without care, women and girls manage their periods without basic supplies.

    Meanwhile, water production capacity has plummeted leaving the entire enclave (95 per cent) facing water insecurity.

    With clean water increasingly difficult to access, children have little choice but to drink contaminated water,” Ms. Russell said, noting that this is increasing the risk of disease outbreaks.

    UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell briefs the Security Council

    Aid impeded, fuel at trickle levels

    Mr. Fletcher further described the scale of challenges to moving something as simple as a bag of flour into Gaza.

    He noted multiple layers of approvals that Israel requires, scanning, re‑loading, multiple handoffs, damaged roads, delays at holding points, insecurity and desperate civilians grabbing supplies off trucks.

    Last week – after almost 130 days – some fuel entered Gaza, as Israeli authorities agreed to allow two trucks in per day, five days a week. However, petrol – fuel for ambulances and other critical services – has not been permitted.

    Between 19 May and 14 July, just 1,633 aid trucks – about 62 per cent of loads submitted for clearance – entered Gaza, far below the average of 630 daily truckloads moved during the previous ceasefire, Mr. Fletcher said.

    Appeals to Israel, Hamas – and the Council

    Both officials pressed for immediate, safe, sustained, demilitarised humanitarian access through all available crossings, consistent fuel flows, protection of civilians at distribution points, and restoration of the UN‑led aid pipeline that briefly functioned during earlier pauses in fighting.

    They also reiterated the UN’s call for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages held in Gaza and called on all parties – including Hamas and other armed groups – to respect international humanitarian law.

    Mr. Fletcher asked the Security Council to assess whether Israel, as the occupying power, is meeting its obligations to ensure food and medical supplies reach civilians.

    “We hold all parties to the standards of international law in this conflict. We don’t have to choose – and in fact, we must not choose – between demanding the end to the starvation of civilians in Gaza and demanding the unconditional release of all the hostages,” he said.

    “We must reject antisemitism – we must fight it with every fibre of our DNA. But we must also hold Israel to the same principles and laws as all other States.”

    MIL OSI United Nations News

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: We need to value women in sport, UN rights chief says

    Source: United Nations 2

    The playing field is still far from level,” Mr. Türk said.  

    In the past few years, topflight women’s sporting competitions have achieved increased global prominence with around a billion people watching the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2023. This visibility and attention have prompted important conversations about stereotypes and power dynamics in women’s sports.

    He noted that certain groups face barriers and discrimination in the women’s sporting world — LGBTIQ+ women, women wearing headscarves, women with disabilities and women from marginalized ethnic and racial groups.  

    We need to build up a world of sport in which women and girls, in all their diversity, are equally valuable, visible and paid.”

    A ‘stark’ pay gap

    While professional male footballers earn, on average, $1.8 million annually at the top clubs, women athletes at top clubs have an average income of $24,000. And the average woman athlete, not at top clubs, earns even less than that, rounding out to approximately $10,900 per year.  

    “Without a stable income, women are forced to take other jobs, leaving them with less time and energy to focus on training and improving,” Mr. Türk said.  

    The wage gap is made even more unsustainable by a lack of sufficient protections in the workplace – minimal, if any, maternity leave – and few places to​​ turn to for redress when harassment occurs.  

    Women are also very underrepresented in leadership of professional clubs and federations. Of the 31 federations, women chaired only three.

    Despite such sobering statistics, some federations have begun to institute changes, enshrining maternity and adoption leave and establishing pay equity agreements.  

    Driving social change

    Mr. Türk called on Member States to institute comprehensive anti-discrimination systems which promote pay equality and ensure that violence and harassment in sports is brought to justice.  

    He also said that the media can and should be a “force for good” in portraying women’s success stories in sports and by ensuring that their coverage is accurate and ethical.  

    Sports can drive social change … and inspire and promote fairness, respect and equal opportunities for all. Today let’s champion a sporting world where women and girls can thrive.” 

    MIL OSI United Nations News

  • MIL-OSI China: China, ASEAN members hold talks on AI-powered women development in Guangxi

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

    Over 180 delegates from across China and ASEAN countries convened in Nanning, the capital of south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, on Wednesday, to explore AI’s transformative potential to boost women’s development.

    Themed “Empowerment, Sharing, Innovation: Artificial Intelligence and Women’s Development,” the 2025 Exchange and Cooperation Forum on Women’s Development with ASEAN marks its 9th edition since its debut as the China-ASEAN Women’s Forum in 2006.

    “This convening reflects the growing urgency to place women at the center of technological transformation within ASEAN, China, and the broader global community,” said Sok Chan Chhorvy, secretary of state, Ministry of Women’s Affairs of Cambodia, during the event’s opening ceremony.

    Wang Weiping, Guangxi’s deputy Party chief, highlighted at the forum the region’s strategic role as a gateway to Southeast Asia, leveraging cultural and geographic ties to foster collaboration.

    Guangxi is building a cross-border AI ecosystem, integrating world-leading R&D from top-tier cities like Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou, with applications in the ASEAN region to create more opportunities for women in the digital era, said Wang.

    The opening ceremony also featured the signing of key agreements aimed at strengthening women’s empowerment.

    The two-day forum features roundtable discussions that focus on AI’s role in advancing women, alongside an exhibition showcasing women’s AI-driven entrepreneurial achievements.

    Many event participants lauded China’s leadership in AI, citing its innovations as a model for ASEAN nations, and called for stronger China-ASEAN collaboration to create an inclusive digital environment for women to thrive.

    “We seek stronger ties with women’s federations in China’s border regions, as well as with counterparts in Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia,” said Do Thi Thu Thao, first vice president of the Vietnam Women’s Union, “to advance e-commerce, cross-border trade, healthcare, and cultural exchange, fostering mutual growth in the digital era.”

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI USA: NIST’s Alex Maranghides Receives Service to America Medal

    Source: US Government research organizations

    Alexander Maranghides examines the charred remains of a window frame after an experiment. Data from this series of tests was used to support NIST’s Hazard Mitigation Methodology.
     

    Credit: NIST

    Alexander Maranghides of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) was named a 2025 Samuel J. Heyman Service to America Medal honoree for his groundbreaking research on protecting people and buildings from wildfires. The award recognizes Maranghides for 25 years of work investigating devastating wildfires in the United States and creating actionable guidelines on how to save lives and property in future fires.

    The medal is awarded by the Partnership for Public Service, a nonprofit organization that recognizes federal employees for exemplary work in making America “better, safer, and stronger.” These prestigious awards are commonly known as “Sammies” and are widely considered to be the public service equivalent of the Oscars. Only around 30 honorees are selected each year out of two million federal employees.

    “For more than two decades, Alex has demonstrated an unmatched ability to identify the most important lessons from wildfires,” said Joannie Chin, director of NIST’s Engineering Laboratory. “He then uses a variety of tools to convey these lessons to state and local officials in ways that they can understand the problem and develop solutions tailored to protect their communities.”

    NIST fire protection engineer Alex Maranghides with his Service to America medal. 

    Credit: Courtesy of A. Maranghides

    Many important questions emerge after a wildfire destroys a community. Why did one house survive unscathed while its neighbors burned to the ground? Did emergency warnings reach people in time for them to evacuate? What caused the fire to spread? Answering each of these questions could save lives in the next wildfire, but finding those answers is a serious undertaking. Maranghides’ most recent investigation, the 2018 Camp Fire in California, involved interviewing hundreds of firefighters, creating detailed minute-to-minute maps of the disaster, and running full-scale laboratory experiments. The final report is more than 1,000 pages long.

    But Maranghides and his collaborators went further than simply describing what happened; they took the lessons they learned to people who need to hear them, condensing decades of research into practical advice. Community outreach was a critical component of the team’s two biggest projects: Hazard Mitigation Methodology (HMM) and Evacuation and Sheltering Considerations — Assessment, Planning, and Execution (ESCAPE). “Those two programs are the most important work I’ve done over my career,” explained Maranghides.

    HMM contains clear guidance and instructions for how to prevent a wildfire from spreading. It includes advice such as how to prevent embers from getting in your attic and how far a woodpile should be kept from other houses. ESCAPE is a practical guide for how to prepare for wildfire sheltering and evacuation. It describes how emergency planners can prepare lifesaving decisions ahead of time and take simple steps to prepare refuge areas as a last resort if evacuation becomes impossible.

    Both programs are beginning to be implemented in communities with a high risk of fire. As wildfires increase in frequency and severity, Maranghides’ research and outreach will save lives.

    This research is part of NIST’s longstanding effort to understand and prepare communities for natural hazards such as hurricanes, earthquakes and tornadoes. NIST researchers Marc Levitan and Long Phan received a Sammie award last year for helping to create the first building codes for tornadoes. As a leader in researching natural hazards, NIST helps ensure a more resilient nation.

    Samuel J. Heyman Service to America honorees are chosen by a selection committee composed of leaders from government, business, charitable organizations, academia, entertainment and media. For further information, visit the Service to America website.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Quantum computers are coming, and the Netherlands is ready

    Source: Government of the Netherlands

    Whenever you share sensitive information, caution is essential. Strong passwords and two-step verification offer protection. But what if a new technology could soon render that security ineffective? That’s exactly what quantum computers are capable of. Fortunately, the Netherlands is a leader in this field, as we demonstrated in the run-up to the NATO Summit.

    Image: ©TU Delft
    Part of a facility used to create qubits.

    Quantum computers explained

    So what exactly does this technology involve? Quantum computers operate differently from the computers we know today. Instead of bits that are either 0 or 1, they use qubits that can be both 0 and 1 at the same time. That may sound abstract, but it has far-reaching implications. Quantum computers can solve certain mathematical problems much faster than traditional computers. And it just so happens that complex mathematics forms the basis of almost all current forms of encryption – the secure way to protect information.

    Threat

    The biggest threat is that in a short time quantum computers will be able to crack existing security methods such as RSA (an algorithm developed in 1977 by Ron Rivest, Adi Shamir and Len Adleman), which is widely used in internet security, email encryption and digital signatures. What would take an ordinary computer millions of years could take a powerful quantum computer just minutes. This means that information encrypted today could potentially be accessed in the future. A dangerous scenario is ‘store now, decrypt later’, where malicious actors intercept encrypted data now, such as state secrets, medical records or financial information. Although they cannot read this data today, they store these files in anticipation of quantum technology that can break the encryption. No wonder the European Commission has emphasised in its roadmap that the digital future must be quantum-safe.

    Solution

    Post-quantum cryptography offers a solution. This is cryptography based on mathematical problems that are believed to be unbreakable even by a quantum computer. Dutch central government’s Quantum-Secure Cryptography programme is working on tools to manage the risks quantum technology poses to cryptography in a timely manner. When it comes to information and communication security, the Dutch quantum technology ecosystem also offers an additional measure: quantum key distribution. This method enables two parties to share secret cryptographic keys with each other, and any attempt to eavesdrop immediately triggers an alert. As a result, the sender and receiver instantly notice if someone is trying to spy and can break the connection. The key cannot be intercepted or copied unnoticed, something that is possible with traditional cryptographic keys.

    Netherlands sets the tone at pre-NATO Summit event

    To keep the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Justice and Security safe in the quantum era, a pilot project has been launched to experiment with the complementary use of quantum key distribution.

    It involves a trial set-up of a quantum network, which has been used to investigate a number of cases for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, enabling the method to be tested in an isolated environment. The significance of this became clear during the pre-NATO Summit event ‘Securing the Future.’ Here, the ministries gave a presentation with a live demonstration showing that the Dutch government now has an operational quantum network, and demonstrating how quantum key distribution and post-quantum cryptography work in a complementary way. This made quantum-secure communication tangible and showed that it is no longer just a future prospect but is already working in practice.

    The pilot is a joint initiative of several ministries, including the Ministry of Justice and Security and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in partnership with Quantum Delta NL, Q*Bird, RINIS, Sogeti, the Ministry of Justice and Security’s ICT organisation and Eurofiber.

    International quantum computing

    The European Commission has presented its roadmap for a quantum-safe digital future. The Netherlands is ready to lead by example, by investing in strengthening cryptographic resilience through research and testing in quantum technology, and fostering close collaboration between government organisations, academia and businesses. Together, we are building a digital infrastructure that will remain secure for generations to come.

    Urgency

    The urgency is clear: once quantum computers truly breakthrough in a few years, all government networks and systems must be quantum-secure. This means switching to post-quantum cryptography – encryption that can withstand attacks from quantum computers. It also requires targeted investment in quantum technologies like quantum key distribution and careful choices about what data we should already be protecting against future decryption. Because what appears secure today could be out in the open and up for grabs tomorrow.

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Becca Balint to Chair Progressive Caucus Task Force to End Corporate Greed

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Becca Balint (VT-AL)

    Rep. Becca Balint to Chair Progressive Caucus Task Force to End Corporate Greed

    “Corporate greed is at the root of so many of the struggles working people face. It’s time we take back power over our rigged economy and fight back against the greed that makes everything harder for the rest of us.”

    Washington, July 16, 2025

    Today, Rep. Becca Balint (VT-AL) launched a Progressive Caucus Task Force to end corporate greed. Rep. Balint’s Task Force is one of four that will be focused on advancing a slate of policy proposals to set a vision for the Democratic agenda that puts the needs of working people first. 

    “I came to Congress to unrig a system that makes it so hard for so many Americans to get a fair shot,” said Rep. Becca Balint. “And today, I’m fired up to launch the Ending Corporate Greed Task Force alongside my colleagues to do the real work necessary to build an America that gives people a real chance at an easier life. Corporate greed is at the root of so many of the struggles working people face. It’s time we take back power over our rigged economy and fight back against the greed that makes everything harder for the rest of us. Because we have a vision for a reality where we can all afford to make rent, have affordable health care, get paid fair wages, and get an education without crippling debt.”

    The four Task Forces—focused on lowering costs, ending corporate greed, fighting corruption, and securing better pay and benefits—are part of a broader effort by the Progressive Caucus to define a Democratic governing agenda that is clear, popular, easy to understand, and quickly delivers material benefits to working people. The other task forces launched today by the Caucus will be led by the following Members: 

    • Rep. Omar, Promoting Peace & Security
    • Rep. Min, Fighting Corruption
    • Rep. Johnson, Fighting Corruption (Vice Chair)
    • Rep. Ansari, Lowering Costs
    • Rep. Randall, Better Pay and Benefits

    Watch her remarks on the announcement here. 

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Malliotakis Celebrates Historic Investment to Improve Newark Airport

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11)

    (NEW YORK, NY) – Following the completion of the runway renovation and the FAA’s transition to a new fiber-optic network at Newark Liberty International Airport, even more investment is underway to modernize our aviation system. Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis is celebrating Congressional approval of investments coming to Newark Airport, a convenient and frequently used hub for residents of Staten Island and Brooklyn. These historic investments are also being made at airports across the New York City area and the nation, aimed at improving air traffic control operations and overall reliability.

     

    In the One Big Beautiful Law, Congresswoman Malliotakis helped secure $12.5 billion to modernize Air Traffic Control systems across the nation including at Newark Airport. This investment is part of a larger $31 billion plan championed by President Trump to upgrade federal air traffic control infrastructure and bring America’s air traffic management system into the 21st century.

     

    “This historic investment marks a major step forward in modernizing our nation’s aviation infrastructure and improving the travel experience for millions of Americans with a priority on Newark Airport used by a vast majority of travelers from our district,” said Rep. Malliotakis. “I worked with Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy and my colleagues to deliver this infrastructure funding and ensure the Department of Transportation continues to prioritize upgrades at Newark Airport to improve passenger safety and reduce flight delays.

     

    Modernizing systems like radar, radios, and fiber-optic cables is critical to improving efficiency, reducing delays, and ensuring the safety of the public. As air travel demand grows, these investments will benefit the Staten Island and Brooklyn residents who depend on Newark as a key travel hub. Following the recent runway renovation and the FAA’s transition to a new fiber optic network at Newark, I will continue to support efforts to strengthen our aviation system and bring it into the 21st century.”

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI: Bitcoin Swift Launches Stage 1 of ICO With Live Programmable Mining and Real-Time Payouts

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LUXEMBOURG, July 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitcoin Swift (BTC3), a next-generation blockchain protocol, has officially launched Stage 1 of its Initial Coin Offering (ICO), introducing a novel approach to early-stage participation with programmable mining rewards that activate immediately.

    Unlike traditional ICOs that require investors to wait for mainnet or roadmap deliverables, Bitcoin Swift’s Proof-of-Yield system is already live. Early contributors who purchase BTC3 during Stage 1 receive programmable mining contracts that begin distributing rewards from day one, a move designed to reshape how value is delivered in token presales.

    A Short Presale With Immediate Impact

    Bitcoin Swift’s presale is structured into ten fast-paced stages, each lasting fewer than ten days. Stage 1 is currently live at $1 per token, offering the highest programmable mining output before the next stage doubles the token price to $2. The platform has allocated 50% of its total token supply toward programmable mining, with early participants gaining access to the most lucrative reward cycles.

    “Programmable mining begins the moment a buyer enters Stage 1,” said a spokesperson for Bitcoin Swift. “We’re not just rewarding early access—we’re activating a system where rewards are governed transparently by smart contracts and delivered automatically.”

    Hybrid Consensus With AI-Driven Efficiency

    Bitcoin Swift operates on a hybrid Proof-of-Work (PoW) and Proof-of-Stake (PoS) consensus model. Miners create blocks, while validators finalize checkpoints every 100 blocks. A layer of AI oracles monitors energy metrics and adjusts mining rewards in real time to prioritize sustainable, low-carbon usage.

    Key features include:

    • Hybrid PoW/PoS architecture for block creation and finalization
    • AI agents and oracles that adjust mining parameters dynamically
    • WASM-based smart contracts that evolve with market conditions
    • zk-SNARK privacy layers and decentralized identity support
    • Verified by Spywolf and Solidproof, including KYC and audit certification

    Governance and Privacy at the Core

    BTC3 is more than a mining protocol—it incorporates governance mechanisms powered by AI, where votes are scored for risk and participation is linked to both token holdings and verified identity. Meanwhile, zk-ledger technology ensures that transactions are shielded and private, while maintaining institutional-grade compliance for transparency.

    Tokenomics and Distribution

    Bitcoin Swift’s fixed supply of 45 million BTC3 is designed to support long-term value through a transparent allocation model:

    • 22.5 million tokens allocated to Proof-of-Yield mining over 30 years
    • 30% designated for presale participants
    • 15% reserved for liquidity provisioning
    • 5% for team and strategic reserves

    All rewards are executed through smart contracts and are based on activity levels, clean energy metrics, and decentralized ID verification.

    About Bitcoin Swift

    Bitcoin Swift is a programmable Layer 1 blockchain designed to deliver real-time mining, AI-enhanced consensus, and privacy-first decentralized finance. By combining Proof-of-Work and Proof-of-Stake with AI agents and programmable rewards, Bitcoin Swift enables a secure, efficient, and transparent blockchain ecosystem from the first day of its ICO.

    With only 63 days left in the presale, the project invites early participants to engage in an active ecosystem where programmable mining and real-time payouts are already live.

    For more information, visit: https://bitcoinswift.com
    Join the conversation on Telegram: https://t.me/BitcoinSwift

    Contact:
    Luc Schaus
    support@bitcoinswift.com

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by Bitcoin Swift. 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. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. 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. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. 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. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility. Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.

    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 assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. 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/2545c087-dfa6-4673-a106-229cb2519585

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7b6ff4a9-93bc-48da-9f23-47b46d5f4ab1

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/044c2c8f-182d-4af1-85d1-0f4cbda56cbc

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Bitcoin Swift Launches Stage 1 of ICO With Live Programmable Mining and Real-Time Payouts

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LUXEMBOURG, July 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitcoin Swift (BTC3), a next-generation blockchain protocol, has officially launched Stage 1 of its Initial Coin Offering (ICO), introducing a novel approach to early-stage participation with programmable mining rewards that activate immediately.

    Unlike traditional ICOs that require investors to wait for mainnet or roadmap deliverables, Bitcoin Swift’s Proof-of-Yield system is already live. Early contributors who purchase BTC3 during Stage 1 receive programmable mining contracts that begin distributing rewards from day one, a move designed to reshape how value is delivered in token presales.

    A Short Presale With Immediate Impact

    Bitcoin Swift’s presale is structured into ten fast-paced stages, each lasting fewer than ten days. Stage 1 is currently live at $1 per token, offering the highest programmable mining output before the next stage doubles the token price to $2. The platform has allocated 50% of its total token supply toward programmable mining, with early participants gaining access to the most lucrative reward cycles.

    “Programmable mining begins the moment a buyer enters Stage 1,” said a spokesperson for Bitcoin Swift. “We’re not just rewarding early access—we’re activating a system where rewards are governed transparently by smart contracts and delivered automatically.”

    Hybrid Consensus With AI-Driven Efficiency

    Bitcoin Swift operates on a hybrid Proof-of-Work (PoW) and Proof-of-Stake (PoS) consensus model. Miners create blocks, while validators finalize checkpoints every 100 blocks. A layer of AI oracles monitors energy metrics and adjusts mining rewards in real time to prioritize sustainable, low-carbon usage.

    Key features include:

    • Hybrid PoW/PoS architecture for block creation and finalization
    • AI agents and oracles that adjust mining parameters dynamically
    • WASM-based smart contracts that evolve with market conditions
    • zk-SNARK privacy layers and decentralized identity support
    • Verified by Spywolf and Solidproof, including KYC and audit certification

    Governance and Privacy at the Core

    BTC3 is more than a mining protocol—it incorporates governance mechanisms powered by AI, where votes are scored for risk and participation is linked to both token holdings and verified identity. Meanwhile, zk-ledger technology ensures that transactions are shielded and private, while maintaining institutional-grade compliance for transparency.

    Tokenomics and Distribution

    Bitcoin Swift’s fixed supply of 45 million BTC3 is designed to support long-term value through a transparent allocation model:

    • 22.5 million tokens allocated to Proof-of-Yield mining over 30 years
    • 30% designated for presale participants
    • 15% reserved for liquidity provisioning
    • 5% for team and strategic reserves

    All rewards are executed through smart contracts and are based on activity levels, clean energy metrics, and decentralized ID verification.

    About Bitcoin Swift

    Bitcoin Swift is a programmable Layer 1 blockchain designed to deliver real-time mining, AI-enhanced consensus, and privacy-first decentralized finance. By combining Proof-of-Work and Proof-of-Stake with AI agents and programmable rewards, Bitcoin Swift enables a secure, efficient, and transparent blockchain ecosystem from the first day of its ICO.

    With only 63 days left in the presale, the project invites early participants to engage in an active ecosystem where programmable mining and real-time payouts are already live.

    For more information, visit: https://bitcoinswift.com
    Join the conversation on Telegram: https://t.me/BitcoinSwift

    Contact:
    Luc Schaus
    support@bitcoinswift.com

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by Bitcoin Swift. 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. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. 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. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. 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. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility. Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.

    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 assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. 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/2545c087-dfa6-4673-a106-229cb2519585

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7b6ff4a9-93bc-48da-9f23-47b46d5f4ab1

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/044c2c8f-182d-4af1-85d1-0f4cbda56cbc

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Royalty Pharma Appoints Carole Ho and Elizabeth Weatherman to the Company’s Board of Directors

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • Strengthens Board of Directors with appointment of two new independent members, increasing independent representation to greater than 90%
    • Underscores Royalty Pharma’s commitment to enhanced corporate governance following acquisition of its external manager

    NEW YORK, July 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Royalty Pharma plc (Nasdaq: RPRX) today announced the appointment of Carole Ho and Elizabeth (Bess) Weatherman to its Board of Directors, effective immediately. Carole Ho is Chief Medical Officer and Head of Development at Denali Therapeutics, a biopharmaceutical company focused on neurodegenerative diseases. Bess Weatherman is a Special Limited Partner of Warburg Pincus LLC, a leading global private equity firm focused on growth investing.

    “We are delighted to welcome Carole and Bess to our board,” said Pablo Legorreta, founder and Chief Executive Officer of Royalty Pharma. “Their exceptional leadership and passion for innovation will be invaluable as we execute on our long-term strategy. With decades of experience spanning the biopharmaceutical and finance industry, they bring unique insights that will strengthen our board and support our continued growth.”

    Carole Ho has 20 years of experience in biopharma. She currently serves as Chief Medical Officer and Head of Development at Denali Therapeutics, where she heads therapeutic development from early-stage planning to late-stage development in rare disease and neurology. Since 2018, she has also served on non-profit, private and public boards. Prior to Denali, she was Vice President of Clinical Development at Genentech, where she led development of therapeutics in neurology, immunology, ophthalmology and infectious disease. Carole received a SB in biochemistry, magna cum laude, from Harvard University and earned her MD, with honors in research, from Weill Cornell Medicine.

    Bess Weatherman is a seasoned investor of 35 years across the healthcare industry. She currently serves as a Special Limited Partner at Warburg Pincus, which she joined in 1988. During her tenure, she held the role of Partner, was a member of the Executive Management Group and led the firm’s Healthcare Group. She has served on the boards of numerous public and private companies and brings a deep understanding of capital markets, corporate governance, and medical innovation. Bess received a BA in English, summa cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa, from Mount Holyoke College and earned her MBA from the Stanford Graduate School of Business.

    About Royalty Pharma

    Founded in 1996, Royalty Pharma is the largest buyer of biopharmaceutical royalties and a leading funder of innovation across the biopharmaceutical industry, collaborating with innovators from academic institutions, research hospitals and non-profits through small and mid-cap biotechnology companies to leading global pharmaceutical companies. Royalty Pharma has assembled a portfolio of royalties which entitles it to payments based directly on the top-line sales of many of the industry’s leading therapies. Royalty Pharma funds innovation in the biopharmaceutical industry both directly and indirectly – directly when it partners with companies to co-fund late-stage clinical trials and new product launches in exchange for future royalties, and indirectly when it acquires existing royalties from the original innovators. Royalty Pharma’s current portfolio includes royalties on more than 35 commercial products, including Vertex’s Trikafta, GSK’s Trelegy, Roche’s Evrysdi, Johnson & Johnson’s Tremfya, Biogen’s Tysabri and Spinraza, AbbVie and Johnson & Johnson’s Imbruvica, Astellas and Pfizer’s Xtandi, Novartis’ Promacta, Pfizer’s Nurtec ODT and Gilead’s Trodelvy, and 16 development-stage product candidates. For more information, visit www.royaltypharma.com.   

    Royalty Pharma Investor Relations and Communications

    +1 (212) 883-6637
    ir@royaltypharma.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: XRP players must read: 2025 latest Cloud Mining plan, $6000 daily withdrawal manual

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York City, NY, July 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As the world’s understanding of blockchain technology continues to deepen, the XRP ecosystem is recovering strongly. On-chain data shows that in the past 5 days, the number of active addresses in the XRP ledger has exceeded 100,000, and the average daily number of transactions has exceeded 3 million, setting a new high since 2024. At the same time, Ripple continues to promote cross-border payment cooperation in the Middle East, Southeast Asia and other places, and promotes XRP to become an important settlement medium for the circulation of real-world assets (RWA). As the price of XRP continues to fluctuate upward, more and more holders are looking for a way to obtain sustainable passive income without relying on secondary market fluctuations-cloud mining has entered the public eye. Among all cloud mining platforms that support XRP payments, ETHRANSACTION stands out with its stable income, green energy drive, compliance qualifications and flexible contract structure, and has become the first choice trusted by many investors.

    XRP chain rebounds, holders turn from “waiting for prices to rise” to “value appreciation”

    For a long time, XRP users have mainly made profits by hoarding coins and waiting for prices to rise. However, in the current market environment with high-frequency fluctuations and frequent policy intervention, this approach is becoming increasingly risky. In contrast, using XRP to purchase mining contracts through cloud mining can not only avoid the depreciation of currency-based assets, but also obtain additional income every day, which is a more stable strategy.

    ETHRANSACTION opened the XRP recharge channel as early as 2021, and continued to optimize the computing power support capabilities for the XRP chain. At present, users only need to transfer XRP to the platform and select the corresponding contract to immediately start cloud mining services for mainstream currencies such as DOGE and BTC. There is no threshold throughout the process, no equipment and maintenance required, and it is suitable for every digital asset holder.

    Popular contract list

    ⦁ Invest in WhatsMiner M30S [Daily Sign-in Rewards]: Investment amount: US$19, total net profit: US$19 + US$0.9.

    ⦁ Invest in Avalon Manufacturing A1346 [Experience Contract]: Investment amount: US$100, total net profit: US$100 + US$18.

    ⦁ Invest in ElphaPex DG Home1 contract plan: investment amount: $600, total net profit: $600 + $52.5.

    ⦁ Invest in Antminer L7 contract plan: investment amount: $1,300, total net profit: $1,300 + $236.6.

    ⦁ Invest in Antminer T21 contract plan: investment amount: $3,700, total net profit: $3,700 + $1,021.2.

    (The platform has launched a variety of stable income contracts, which can be viewed on the ETHRANSACTION official website.)

    All contracts take effect immediately, automatically settle profits daily, and support withdrawals at any time.

    Why are more and more XRP users choosing ETHRANSACTION?

    New users can get a $19 reward upon registration and experience cloud mining at zero cost;

    No mining machine is required, no maintenance is required, one-click contract start, and daily settlement of income;

    AI intelligent scheduling + green energy, computing power online rate 99.9%, zero carbon footprint of electricity consumption;

    McAfee® + Cloudflare® double security protection, platform assets are insured by AIG;

    0 management fee + 0 hidden fee, the income chain is traceable, transparent and clear;

    Support multi-currency withdrawal, including BTC, USDT, DOGE, ETH, XRP, etc., withdraw to wallet in seconds;

    Invitation rebate mechanism: direct invitation rebate 4%, indirect invitation rebate 2%, unlimited income.

    ETHRANSACTION currently serves more than 8 million users worldwide, and the platform covers more than 100 countries and regions. It is one of the most active and fastest growing brands in the current cloud computing track.

    Conclusion: From holding to appreciation, XRP’s potential is not just growth

    As a key hub connecting real-world payments and on-chain value, the future value of XRP is not only reflected in price, but also in scene landing and on-chain activity. ETHRANSACTION is providing the underlying computing power support and financial tools for this value reconstruction, allowing every XRP holder to truly participate in and benefit from the growth of the blockchain economy.

    Media Details:

    Visit the official website https://ethransaction.vip now, or send an email to info@ethransaction.vip to start your XRP cloud mining journey and let your assets appreciate every day.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: XRP players must read: 2025 latest Cloud Mining plan, $6000 daily withdrawal manual

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York City, NY, July 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As the world’s understanding of blockchain technology continues to deepen, the XRP ecosystem is recovering strongly. On-chain data shows that in the past 5 days, the number of active addresses in the XRP ledger has exceeded 100,000, and the average daily number of transactions has exceeded 3 million, setting a new high since 2024. At the same time, Ripple continues to promote cross-border payment cooperation in the Middle East, Southeast Asia and other places, and promotes XRP to become an important settlement medium for the circulation of real-world assets (RWA). As the price of XRP continues to fluctuate upward, more and more holders are looking for a way to obtain sustainable passive income without relying on secondary market fluctuations-cloud mining has entered the public eye. Among all cloud mining platforms that support XRP payments, ETHRANSACTION stands out with its stable income, green energy drive, compliance qualifications and flexible contract structure, and has become the first choice trusted by many investors.

    XRP chain rebounds, holders turn from “waiting for prices to rise” to “value appreciation”

    For a long time, XRP users have mainly made profits by hoarding coins and waiting for prices to rise. However, in the current market environment with high-frequency fluctuations and frequent policy intervention, this approach is becoming increasingly risky. In contrast, using XRP to purchase mining contracts through cloud mining can not only avoid the depreciation of currency-based assets, but also obtain additional income every day, which is a more stable strategy.

    ETHRANSACTION opened the XRP recharge channel as early as 2021, and continued to optimize the computing power support capabilities for the XRP chain. At present, users only need to transfer XRP to the platform and select the corresponding contract to immediately start cloud mining services for mainstream currencies such as DOGE and BTC. There is no threshold throughout the process, no equipment and maintenance required, and it is suitable for every digital asset holder.

    Popular contract list

    ⦁ Invest in WhatsMiner M30S [Daily Sign-in Rewards]: Investment amount: US$19, total net profit: US$19 + US$0.9.

    ⦁ Invest in Avalon Manufacturing A1346 [Experience Contract]: Investment amount: US$100, total net profit: US$100 + US$18.

    ⦁ Invest in ElphaPex DG Home1 contract plan: investment amount: $600, total net profit: $600 + $52.5.

    ⦁ Invest in Antminer L7 contract plan: investment amount: $1,300, total net profit: $1,300 + $236.6.

    ⦁ Invest in Antminer T21 contract plan: investment amount: $3,700, total net profit: $3,700 + $1,021.2.

    (The platform has launched a variety of stable income contracts, which can be viewed on the ETHRANSACTION official website.)

    All contracts take effect immediately, automatically settle profits daily, and support withdrawals at any time.

    Why are more and more XRP users choosing ETHRANSACTION?

    New users can get a $19 reward upon registration and experience cloud mining at zero cost;

    No mining machine is required, no maintenance is required, one-click contract start, and daily settlement of income;

    AI intelligent scheduling + green energy, computing power online rate 99.9%, zero carbon footprint of electricity consumption;

    McAfee® + Cloudflare® double security protection, platform assets are insured by AIG;

    0 management fee + 0 hidden fee, the income chain is traceable, transparent and clear;

    Support multi-currency withdrawal, including BTC, USDT, DOGE, ETH, XRP, etc., withdraw to wallet in seconds;

    Invitation rebate mechanism: direct invitation rebate 4%, indirect invitation rebate 2%, unlimited income.

    ETHRANSACTION currently serves more than 8 million users worldwide, and the platform covers more than 100 countries and regions. It is one of the most active and fastest growing brands in the current cloud computing track.

    Conclusion: From holding to appreciation, XRP’s potential is not just growth

    As a key hub connecting real-world payments and on-chain value, the future value of XRP is not only reflected in price, but also in scene landing and on-chain activity. ETHRANSACTION is providing the underlying computing power support and financial tools for this value reconstruction, allowing every XRP holder to truly participate in and benefit from the growth of the blockchain economy.

    Media Details:

    Visit the official website https://ethransaction.vip now, or send an email to info@ethransaction.vip to start your XRP cloud mining journey and let your assets appreciate every day.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Treaty between the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and the Federal Republic of Germany on friendship and bilateral cooperation

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Treaty between the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and the Federal Republic of Germany on friendship and bilateral cooperation

    Treaty between the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and the Federal Republic of Germany on friendship and bilateral cooperation

    The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and the Federal Republic of Germany, hereinafter referred to as “the Parties”,

    Guided by the desire to join forces for a prosperous, secure and sustainable future for their citizens and their open, democratic societies in the face of fundamental changes of the geopolitical environment;

    Inspired by a common will to address the momentous new challenges to Euro-Atlantic security in an era characterised by increased strategic competition, challenges to the rules-based international order and challenges to their democracies from increasing hybrid threats;

    Identifying the Russian Federation’s brutal war of aggression on the European continent as the most significant and direct threat to their security;

    Convinced that they will better master these challenges by deepening their close cooperation as European neighbours and allies on the basis of the strong ties that connect their countries, peoples and governments and their shared history, values and interests;

    Determined to join forces to assert these values and interests in close cooperation in a changing world, and to uphold peace and security for their citizens; convinced of the need to pursue a broad, integrated and multifaceted approach to their security;

    Guided by their steadfast commitment to individual liberty, human rights, democracy, and the rule of law in open societies, and by their will to work together for the good of the European continent and of an international order based on shared rules, norms and principles;

    Convinced that prosperity and security can only be guaranteed by limiting the increase of global average temperature to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels and conserving biodiversity and ecosystems; recognising the importance of their free and open market economies and of delivering mutual growth, including through their trade and investment relationship, to provide high-quality jobs to their citizens and underpin their prosperity while ensuring growth aligns with their net zero commitments and a just transition;

    Convinced of the imperative of international cooperation to seize the opportunities and mitigate the risks of technological change; reaffirming the critical role that science, innovation and technology as well as education play in contributing to their collective security and their sustainable economic growth and prosperity, and recognising the value of building cooperation in critical areas of science and technology that will shape their futures;

    Recalling the Federal Republic of Germany’s membership in the European Union and the commitments and obligations resulting therefrom; and the legal framework for the relationship between the European Union and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland underpinned by the Withdrawal Agreement, including the Windsor Framework, and the Trade and Cooperation Agreement; sharing the view that their cooperation is consistent with and benefits from the wider relationship of the European Union and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and that a positive development of the latter is in their shared interest;

    Reaffirming their ironclad commitment to the Transatlantic Alliance as the bedrock of their security, based on shared values, and a shared commitment to the security of the Euro-Atlantic area, and underpinned by enhanced European contributions;

    Commending the Agreement on Defence cooperation between the Ministry of Defence of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and the Federal Ministry of Defence of the Federal Republic of Germany, signed at Trinity House in London on 23 October 2024;

    Mindful of the vital role, specific responsibilities and interests of municipalities, the German Länder, the German Bundestag and Bundesrat in the Federal Republic of Germany, and of the devolved governments, Parliaments and legislative assemblies and the Houses of Parliament in the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland,

    HAVE AGREED AS FOLLOWS:

    Chapter 1

    Diplomacy, Security and Development

    ARTICLE 1

    • The Parties shall consult each other on foreign and security policy matters to enable the closest cooperation across all shared priorities. They shall work together on their respective policies and seek to establish joint approaches, including with regard to their collaboration with global partners and in multilateral and other settings.

    • The Parties shall pursue deep exchanges on strategic aspects of security policy, including deterrence and defence, nuclear issues, arms control, non-proliferation, chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear threats space security, counter-terrorism and the broader international security architecture, in order to support the security of Europe and the world. They shall increase cooperation on intelligence and national security capabilities in order to contribute effectively to this goal.

    • The Parties shall deepen their cooperation to understand, counter and respond to threats and hostile actions by state and non-state actors. The Parties shall work together on their approaches to crisis management, consular support and conflict resolution and prevention.

    • The Parties emphasise the importance of close cooperation on sanctions policy and implementation, to strengthen their effectiveness.

    • Foreign Ministers shall hold an annual Strategic Dialogue. A Senior Level Officials Group shall meet annually to coordinate foreign, security and defence policy.

    ARTICLE 2

    • The Parties shall strive to strengthen the Strategic Partnership between the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and the European Union, including through the Security and Defence Partnership between the European Union and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. The Federal Republic of Germany affirms its deep and unwavering commitment to its role as a founding member of the European Union, which remains a foundation of its policy decisions.

    • The Parties shall seek to intensify the trilateral cooperation with the French Republic, as well as their cooperation with other partners, and within multilateral formats such as the G7 and the United Nations, in order to jointly address international challenges.

    ARTICLE 3

     (1) The Parties reaffirm their commitment to the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation as the foundation of their collective defence and to their obligations as stipulated in the North Atlantic Treaty of 4 April 1949, in particular Article 5. The Federal Republic of Germany reaffirms its deep commitment to its obligations as a member of the European Union, including paragraph 7 of Article 42 of the Treaty on European Union.

    (2) The Parties shall work together as North Atlantic Treaty Organisation Allies to ensure the Alliance continues to strengthen collective deterrence and defence against all threats and from all directions and to enhance the European contribution to Europe’s own security. To this end, they shall coordinate their positions, including in the area of deterrence and defence, and ensure that increased contributions and investments deliver on their commitments. They commit to working towards fostering close and effective cooperation between the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation and the European Union.

    • Conscious of the close alignment of their vital interests and convinced that there is no strategic threat to one which would not be a strategic threat to the other, the Parties affirm as close Allies their deep commitment to each other’s defence and shall assist one another, including by military means, in case of an armed attack on the other.

    ARTICLE 4

    (1) The Parties share deep concern at the threats and challenges posed by hybrid threats and foreign interference from state actors and their proxies using increasingly aggressive actions to undermine their security and democratic values, and those of their Allies and partners. These include inter alia sabotage, malicious cyber activity, foreign information manipulation and interference and the malign use of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence.

    (2) The Parties shall work to strengthen resilience as well as build capacity and capability to detect, deter, disrupt, and respond to these threats. They acknowledge the key roles of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation, the G7, and the European Union in this regard. To achieve this, the Parties shall consider means such as information sharing, the development of tools, coordination of disruption and response options, and exchanges of lessons learned and other means.

    (3) The Parties shall continue to cooperate in the field of cyber diplomacy, cybersecurity and emerging technologies. They also agree to promote responsible behaviour in cyberspace.  

    ARTICLE 5

    Guided by the principles of the Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development and the Sustainable Development Goals, the Parties shall cooperate strategically on sustainable development, crisis prevention and response, peacebuilding, stabilisation and humanitarian assistance. They shall support strong coordination in the nexus between humanitarian, development and peace efforts. They shall work together on the protection and promotion of global public goods including climate, biodiversity, global health and education. Jointly they shall fight inequalities worldwide, including through the empowerment of women and girls. They will work together on anticipatory action to improve local resilience and promote inclusive and locally led responses to crises. Both countries shall contribute jointly to strengthening and reforming the multilateral system and the international financial architecture, making them more just, effective and sustainable and ensuring they deliver for the most vulnerable. They shall hold a regular intergovernmental dialogue on these topics.

    ARTICLE 6

    The Parties shall seek closer collaboration to address health threats and advance global health priorities including pandemic prevention, preparedness and response as well as anti-microbial resistance and the ‘One-Health’ approach. They shall work on these issues both bilaterally and via more coordinated, effective, and efficient global health institutions. The Parties shall share experiences to tackle common domestic health issues.

    Chapter 2

    Defence Cooperation

    ARTICLE 7

    (1) In this new era for enhanced European defence, the Parties share the strategic objective to reinforce Euro-Atlantic security and ensure effective deterrence against potential aggressors by building credible, resilient defence forces, strengthening their capability across all domains. The Parties shall seek to support their defence industries and enhance bilateral military interoperability, interchangeability and integration. They shall ensure their mutual support to the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation, committing to working together towards the vision of a peaceful and secure Euro-Atlantic area.

    (2) The Parties remain committed to improving and further strengthening bilateral defence cooperation. They shall build a long-term partnership to improve and further enhance European defence, also with a view to enabling enhanced cooperation with Allies and partners.

    (3) The Parties shall intensify their cooperation through joint political leadership, enhanced dialogue, and agreed mechanisms. They shall deepen their cooperation on deterrence and regularly review their collaboration in order to meet future threats across all domains: Land, Sea, Air, Space and Cyber.

    (4) Sharing a special interest and focus on the northern and eastern flanks of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation, the Parties shall work together, alongside their North Atlantic Treaty Organisation Allies, to strengthen deterrence and defence to these areas, coordinating their forces where possible.

    (5) The Parties reaffirm their determination to meet their commitments as North Atlantic Treaty Organisation Allies, to be prepared for high-intensity and multi-domain collective defence. They shall provide such forces, capabilities, resources and infrastructure as are needed to enable the execution of the Defence Plans of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation.

    (6) The Parties shall seek to enhance industrial and capability cooperation through a long-term joint approach endeavouring to deliver effective military capabilities efficiently, minimising national constraints, and strengthening industrial competitiveness.

    (7) The Parties shall endeavour to maintain a close dialogue on defence issues of mutual interest and global horizon-scanning, including on nuclear issues.

    ARTICLE 8

    (1) The Parties recognise the importance of having a reliable agenda with regard to transfers and exports in order to ensure the economic and political success of their industrial and intergovernmental cooperation and their respective competence to authorise the transfer or export, from their territory, of defence-related products from intergovernmental programmes or developed by their industries. 

    (2) Recognising the joint and unanimous invitation dated 25 June 2025 from the contracting parties of the Agreement on Defence Export Controls concluded by the French Republic, the Federal Republic of Germany and the Kingdom of Spain on 17 September 2021 (the “Agreement on Defence Export Controls ”) to the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland to accede to such Agreement on Defence Export Controls, the Parties agree to preliminarily apply as between them, in their cooperation on defence export controls, Articles 1 to 5 and Annexes 1 to 3 of the Agreement on Defence Export Controls until the date on which the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland accedes to such Agreement on Defence Export Controls.

    (3) In the event that the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland accedes to the Agreement on Defence Export Controls, paragraph 2 of the present Article shall cease to have effect.

    Chapter 3

    Internal Security, Justice and Migration

    ARTICLE 9

    • The Parties shall cooperate closely and equitably to counter state and non-state threats to their internal security, including to critical infrastructure, making best use of all suitable policy, legal, operational, diplomatic and technological tools and mechanisms and ensuring that law enforcement bodies and intelligence agencies have the right tools and capabilities.

    • The Parties shall work together bilaterally and through multilateral organisations to improve their law enforcement capabilities. They shall work with INTERPOL to support the integrity of the international system and prevent abuse by malign actors. They acknowledge the vital role of European Union agencies, such as Europol and Eurojust, in this regard. They shall consider further ways to strengthen their response to organised crime and terrorism, noting the challenges posed by hybrid threats.

    (3) The Parties agree that it is in their common interest to cooperate closely on preventing and countering transnational serious and organised crime, including criminal offences falling within the jurisdiction of the customs authorities. They re-confirm their cooperation in the joint efforts to strengthen anti-money laundering and counter the financing of terrorism and their fight against illicit financial flows and other shared organised crime threats, such as drug trafficking.

    (4) The Parties shall continue to hold a Home Affairs Dialogue at senior official level at least annually which covers the full range of Home Affairs issues, including tackling serious and organised crime, including migrant smuggling, and border security. The Parties shall pursue a comparable bilateral exchange on criminal offences falling within the jurisdiction of the customs authorities.

    (5) The Parties shall strengthen collaboration to counter terrorist threats to both their countries, including on protective security measures against emerging threats.

    ARTICLE 10

    (1) The Parties are committed to fostering the most effective cooperation in criminal justice matters between the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and the Federal Republic of Germany. 

    (2) The Parties shall work to intensify collaboration on the rule of law, including in its promotion overseas, and exchange learning on the modernisation of their domestic justice systems.

    (3) The Parties shall share information, best practice and technical assistance in civil and family matters.

    ARTICLE 11

    (1) Recognising the challenge from irregular migration and global pressures, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and the Federal Republic of Germany commit to being active leaders in the global conversation on migration, asylum and borders. The Parties shall cooperate in the joint fight against organised cross-border crime involving migrant smuggling and trafficking in persons. They will support the provision of mutual legal assistance and the prosecution of offenders involved in the smuggling of migrants into and between the two countries. The Parties affirm their joint commitment to border security and regulated migration systems.  

    (2) The Parties shall deepen comprehensive partnerships with countries of origin and transit to address the upstream drivers of irregular migration, including by meeting humanitarian needs, providing education and skills training, boosting employment, and building resilience to conflict and climate change. The Parties recognise that safe and legal pathways in line with national competences are important for regular and orderly migration. Both Parties support a safe, regulated migration system, and share a firm commitment to international law and human rights standards.

    Chapter 4

    Economic Growth, Resilience and Competitiveness

    ARTICLE 12

    • The Parties shall work together to support economic growth, job creation, digital transition and innovation. This includes delivering a just industrial transformation that enables a sustainable and carbon-neutral future and takes into account the needs of future generations. They shall therefore identify vulnerabilities and collaborate on policies.

    • The Parties acknowledge strong business-to-business and people-to-people ties, including many Small and Medium Enterprises, as the foundation of their economic relationship, and agree to take forward joint work in the field of promoting trade and investment, to further build value chains between their countries.

    • The Parties shall work together to deliver their shared ambition of mobilising investment in opportunities that will grow their economies. In doing so, they shall take into consideration the important role of private sector investment and the benefits of coordinating activities between public financial institutions.

    • The Parties recognise the need to strengthen the multilateral trading system particularly by supporting reform of the World Trade Organisation including through discussions in relevant international fora such as the G7 and G20.

    (5) The Parties agree to continue the structured annual dialogue between their ministries of finance, and explore further opportunities to support exchanges between economic experts.

    ARTICLE 13

    • The Parties, acknowledging the strength and complementarity of their economies as well as the importance of a favourable business environment, commit to working with business to drive growth and strengthen the business, commercial and industrial links between the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and the Federal Republic of Germany. The Parties shall focus their cooperation particularly on those areas where it will be most effective in securing the future competitiveness of their economies.

    • The Parties shall work jointly to take full advantage of the significant economic opportunities arising from the green transition, including in particular the renewable energy potential in the North Sea.

    • The Parties recognise the importance of long-term industrial cooperation and shall work together to identify opportunities for coordination and cooperation in the context of their industrial transformations.

    • The Parties shall enhance transport connectivity and collaborate in the field of sustainable, innovative and universally accessible transport solutions and mobility, including cooperation to support the decarbonisation of transport. To this end, they will seek to facilitate direct long distance rail passenger services between their countries.

    • The Parties share the common goal of strengthening the international competitiveness of their aerospace industries and at the same time significantly reducing the climate impact of aviation. Therefore, the Parties agree to further strengthen the existing bilateral activities in the field of aerospace research and to engage in consultations between the ministries and their national research institutions on a regular basis.

    • The Parties’ responsible ministries agree to a structured exchange to address the issues of inclusive and sustainable employment and social policy, just transition of the economy, society and the work environment, and ethical principles and shared values in the context of digital transformation, ensuring that digitalisation and the evolving digital society meet the rights and needs of citizens and the work environment in both countries.

    • The Parties shall work together to enhance their domestic housing policies, to promote innovative approaches to sustainable construction and buildings, and to share best practice on urban matters, with a view to achieving cities that are socially, ecologically, and economically balanced They shall cooperate in multilateral settings on these matters.

    ARTICLE 14

    The Parties commit to working together to safeguard economic stability. They shall strive to strengthen economic resilience to safeguard and protect their national security and deliver secure, sustainable and resilient growth. They shall increase dialogue on economic security to enhance cooperation on priorities such as supply chain resilience, including for critical raw materials, critical technology and critical infrastructure as well as protective toolkits.

    ARTICLE 15

    (1) The Parties shall intensify their cooperation in the field of science, technology, research and innovation, including in critical and emerging areas and research security. The Parties agree to consider funding channels and other means to develop joint bilateral and multilateral activities.

    (2) The Parties shall place special emphasis on their cooperation on innovative or disruptive technologies, ensuring they are able to capitalise more effectively on their strengths in basic and applied research to enable their businesses to grow through the development and commercialisation of new products, processes and services.

    (3) The Parties shall promote the global development and deployment of technologies, with particular attention to ensuring the secure and responsible advancement of fields such as artificial intelligence or space.

    (4) The Parties agree to regular and structured exchanges on science, innovation and technology, building on existing structures including the Science, Innovation and Technology Dialogue. The Parties commit to cooperate on current and future challenges across research and innovation, and emerging and critical technologies. This cooperation will include promoting technology development and adoption, international governance, competition policy, sustainability and exchanges on regulatory issues consistent with national competence.

    ARTICLE 16

    (1) The Parties shall intensify their cooperation in the field of digitalisation and modernisation of the state, including digitalisation of society, economy, science, government and public administration. The Parties agree to consider funding channels and other means to develop joint bilateral and multilateral activities.

    (2) The Parties agree to regular and structured exchanges on digitalisation and the modernisation of the state, building on existing structures including a dialogue on digital policy. The Parties commit to cooperate on current and future challenges across digital and data affairs, digitalisation of the state and digital sovereignty.

    Chapter 5

    Open and Resilient Societies

    ARTICLE 17

    • The Parties shall cooperate on strategies for strengthening the resilience of their democracies in order to build resilient societies which are able to contribute to their countries’ security and to withstand the increasing attempts of interference and manipulation.

    • The Parties shall deepen their cooperation in the fight against all forms of hate crime, whilst promoting freedom of expression and freedom of religion or belief.

    ARTICLE 18

    • The Parties shall strive to reduce obstacles in order to promote exchanges between their citizens on all levels. They shall work towards strengthening people-to-people contacts. The Parties shall promote smoother border fluidity and will provide each other’s citizens access to automated border technology.

    • Particular focus shall be placed on increasing exchange between young people. The Parties value bilateral school and youth exchanges, and shall facilitate such exchanges, supporting the development of relevant structures and initiatives, such as the “UK-German Connection”.

    • The Parties recognise the importance of vocational training, university education and learning opportunities such as internships. The Parties shall jointly endeavour to increase exchanges within their own legislative frameworks with regard to education, skills and training.

    • The Parties shall promote closer relations in all fields of cultural expression, including activities to promote dialogue and cooperation to share best practice between cultural institutions; close cooperation of the British Council and Goethe-Institut; and establishment of an intergovernmental Working Group on Creative Technology.

    • The Parties acknowledge the important role of civil society and they shall strive to support the work of educational institutions, cultural bodies and political organisations.

    • The Parties shall use the annual meetings of the Cultural Commission to the ends of this Article.

    Chapter 6

    Climate, Energy, Nature, Environment and Agriculture

    ARTICLE 19

    • The Parties shall further deepen their bilateral and multilateral cooperation to mitigate the effects of climate change and to pursue efforts to limit the increase of global average temperature to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, including through implementation of the Paris Agreement, the Outcome of the first Global Stocktake adopted at the 28th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP 28) and the Glasgow Climate Pact adopted at the 26th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP 26).

    • The Parties shall enhance their climate foreign policy collaboration and cooperation, including through the UK-Germany Climate Diplomacy Dialogue, to make financial flows consistent with a pathway towards low greenhouse gas emissions and climate-resilient development, address the interplay between climate, environment, peace, and security, and support developing countries to decarbonise their economies and adapt to the adverse effects of climate change.

    • Recognising the significant societal, environmental economic, and geopolitical impacts of the global energy transition and the shift towards climate neutrality, the Parties shall intensify their dialogue to anticipate and address emerging foreign policy and security challenges.

    ARTICLE 20

    • The Parties intend to work together under the Joint Declaration of Cooperation on Energy and Climate, including the Hydrogen Partnership, to realise their shared ambitions regarding: renewable energy; the role of hydrogen, in particular from renewable sources; carbon capture utilisation and storage, in particular in hard-to-abate sectors; energy security; net zero strategies and policies; and green transition. The scope and priorities for this work shall be reviewed by annual senior official and ministerial meetings.

    • The Parties shall work together to achieve their respective domestic emissions reductions targets, to enhance domestic and global just energy transition resilience and security, including by improving energy and resource efficiency, and to provide secure, sustainable and affordable clean energy derived from renewable sources, in an effort to implement the goals laid out in the Paris Agreement and in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

    • Recognising their leading role in the North Seas, they shall work together to accelerate the development of offshore wind energy, electricity, hydrogen and carbon dioxide infrastructures.

    ARTICLE 21

    • The Parties shall cooperate bilaterally and multilaterally to promote environmental protection and halt and reverse biodiversity loss in line with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, including through restoring nature, halting and reversing deforestation, protecting the ocean, reducing plastic, chemical and air pollution and pursuing nature-based solutions.

    • The Parties shall work together to promote resilient and sustainable agriculture and food systems internationally, including high animal welfare standards. They shall focus in particular on achieving global food security and nutrition including as a means of pursuing global stability and security.

    Chapter 7

    Forms of Cooperation

    ARTICLE 22

    The Parties agree to hold government ministerial consultations led by Heads of Government every two years, which shall endorse an Implementation Plan of projects under the Treaty for the following two-year period. The venue for the consultations shall alternate between the two countries. Ministerial level dialogues on individual policy themes shall take place whenever both Parties deem appropriate. The Parties’ foreign ministries shall meet annually to review the bilateral relationship in accordance with the provisions of this Treaty.

    ARTICLE 23

    Existing cooperation agreements and Memoranda of Understanding between line ministries shall be continued and pursued in the framework of this Treaty.

    Final Provisions

    ARTICLE 24

    This Treaty and its application shall be without prejudice to the Parties’ obligations stemming from international law and, in respect of the Federal Republic of Germany, its obligations stemming from its European Union membership. Nothing in this Treaty shall affect the Federal Republic of Germany’s obligations under European Union law.

    ARTICLE 25

    This Treaty shall apply:

    (a) to the territory of the Federal Republic of Germany; and

    (b)     to the territory of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, and may be extended to any or all of the Bailiwick of Guernsey, the Bailiwick of Jersey, and the Isle of Man by mutual agreement between the Parties by exchange of notes.

    ARTICLE 26

    The Parties may agree, in writing, to amend this Treaty. Such amendments shall enter into force in accordance with Article 30.  

    ARTICLE 27

    (1) A Party may terminate this Treaty by giving the other Party notice in writing. Such termination shall take effect six months after the date of the notification, or on such date as the Parties may agree.

    (2) Either Party may request consultations regarding whether the termination of this Treaty should take effect on a date later than that provided in paragraph 1.

    ARTICLE 28

    Any disputes concerning the interpretation, application or implementation of the Treaty shall be resolved solely by negotiation between the Parties.

    ARTICLE 29

    Registration of this Treaty with the Secretariat of the United Nations, in accordance with Article 102 of the Charter of the United Nations, shall be initiated by the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland immediately following its entry into force. The Federal Republic of Germany shall be informed of registration, and of the United Nations registration number, as soon as this has been confirmed by the Secretariat of the United Nations.

    ARTICLE 30

    (1) The present Treaty is subject to ratification; the instruments of ratification shall be exchanged as soon as possible.

    (2) The present Treaty shall enter into force on the date of the exchange of the instruments of ratification.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government agrees landmark plans to lay down the tracks for direct trains to Germany

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Government agrees landmark plans to lay down the tracks for direct trains to Germany

    A direct rail link between London and Berlin could change how people travel between our two countries.

    • new direct rail link between UK and Germany could boost tourism, create jobs and help stimulate economic growth as part of the Plan for Change
    • joint taskforce will be established between governments to pave the way for direct services within the next decade
    • move forms part of the government’s wider plan to boost international rail connectivity and deliver more travel options for passengers

    Millions of passengers could benefit from quicker and more convenient travel across Europe as the UK and Germany establish a joint taskforce to explore a new direct rail link between the two countries.

    The landmark partnership, agreed as part of a new bilateral treaty to be signed by the Prime Minister and Chancellor Merz today (17 July 2025), will pave the way for direct international rail services that could boost tourism to the UK and support jobs, as outlined in the Plan for Change, and strengthen cross-border trade within the next decade.

    This significant step forward on establishing direct rail services comes as the UK and Germany commit to enhancing sustainable transport links and collaborate in the field of sustainable, innovative and universally accessible transport solutions and mobility.

    The joint taskforce will bring together transport experts from both governments to examine how to address the barriers to establishing direct long-distance rail passenger services, including establishing the necessary border and security controls.

    The collaboration will support the decarbonisation of transport while strengthening connections and boosting trade between the UK and Germany.

    Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander, said: 

    We’re pioneering a new era of European rail connectivity and are determined to put Britain at the heart of a better-connected continent.

    The Brandenburg Gate, the Berlin Wall and Checkpoint Charlie – in just a matter of years, rail passengers in the UK could be able to visit these iconic sights direct from the comfort of a train, thanks to a direct connection linking London and Berlin.

    This landmark agreement – part of a new treaty the Prime Minister will sign with Chancellor Merz today – has the potential to fundamentally change how millions of people travel between our two countries, offering a faster, more convenient and significantly greener alternative to flying.

    A new task force will bring our nations closer together and create new opportunities for tourism, business and cultural exchange, building on a landmark deal we signed earlier this year to explore introducing direct services to Switzerland. 

    The economic potential is enormous. A direct rail link would support the creation of jobs and strengthen the vital trade links that underpin our economic relationship with Germany. British businesses will have better access to European markets, whilst German companies will find it easier to invest and operate in the UK.

    This is central to our Plan for Change – breaking down barriers, thinking boldly about the future, and making long-term decisions that better connect Britain to the world. Working with Germany, we’re building bridges between our people and paving the way for a more sustainable, connected future.

    The taskforce will examine commercial and technical requirements, including safety standards, border arrangements and collaboration with rail operators to make direct services a reality.

    This partnership builds on both countries’ commitment to decarbonising transport and promoting sustainable mobility solutions across Europe.

    It follows the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the Transport Secretary and Swiss Federal Councillor, Albert Rösti earlier this year, which will lay the groundwork for future commercial services to Switzerland.

    Rail media enquiries

    Media enquiries 0300 7777878

    Switchboard 0300 330 3000

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Friendship and Bilateral Cooperation Treaty: The 17 Projects the UK and Germany will deliver together

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    World news story

    Friendship and Bilateral Cooperation Treaty: The 17 Projects the UK and Germany will deliver together

    A collection of projects agreed between the UK and Germany as part of the Treaty signed by the two countries on 17 July 2025 in London.

    In July 2025 the UK and Germany signed the Treaty on Friendship and Bilateral Cooperation. As part of the Implementation Plan under Article 22 of the Treaty, they agreed to deliver 17 priority projects. These projects span the breadth of the Treaty, enhancing cooperation in the face of global challenges, and delivering tangible benefits for UK and German citizens. The projects will be reviewed by a Joint Cabinet every two years.

    1. Ukraine Recovery & Reconstruction

    The UK-Germany Alliance will power Ukraine’s recovery: driving reform, reconstruction and resilience together.

    • Strengthening coordination and strategic alignment between the UK and Germany on Ukraine reform, recovery and reconstruction support.
    • Championing annual Ukraine Recovery Conferences, improving joint action between humanitarian, development and peace actors and strengthening donor engagement with Ukrainian civil society.

    2. Trinity House Defence Agreement

    The UK and Germany commit to building a much deeper Defence partnership which will endure in the long-term and enable both countries to address threats, and strengthen NATO, through the framework agreed in the 2024 Trinity House Agreement on Defence co-operation.

    • Deep Precision Strike and Defence: Advancing work to develop a new Deep Precision Strike capability to provide a conventional deterrent in Europe; we are jointly leading the 2.000 km+ cluster within the European Long Range Strike Approach (ELSA). It will be among the most advanced systems ever designed. We will aim to deliver a capability within a decade.
    • Uncrewed Aerial Systems and Future Connectivity: Continuing ongoing UK-Germany coordination of the development, procurement, and doctrine of uncrewed aerial systems. Both Air Forces have developed a detailed „Flight Plan“ to increase their future connectivity.
    • Strengthening Eastern Flank through new Land Strategic Partnership: Delivering a strategic partnership in land systems and continuing their close BOXER cooperation, including RCH 155 artillery and extending cooperation to common offboard systems for Future Ground Combat Systems. Both armies are building on their bilateral vision statement to drive this forward. A new Statement of Intent on bridging capabilities has been agreed.
    • Undersea Co-operation in the Northern Seas: Working together to counter undersea threats. This includes training of German crews on UK P-8A Maritime Patrol Aircraft which will also be delivered to Germany shortly. Both sides have signed an agreement on joint procurement of new Sting Ray torpedoes under development for their aircraft.

    3. Strengthening Defence Industrial and Export Co-operation

    We will work jointly across Government to promote defence exports and champion greater co-operation between our defence industries.

    • Widening our efforts to facilitate and promote dialogue with, and co-operation between, UK and German Defence Industries by further developing the UK-Germany Defence Industry Forum, as per the first meeting in June, reflecting our commitment to a new partnership with industry. This will drive innovation and business-business links to enhance growth.
    • Seeking opportunities to support one another’s defence capability requirements, including through developing future joint procurement initiatives where our requirements align.
    • Deepening efforts to promote our growth and security by pursuing joint export campaigns for jointly produced equipment, building on the UK’s imminent accession to the Germany-France-Spain Treaty on arms export controls.

    4. Joint Action Plan on Irregular Migration

    We will implement the comprehensive Joint Action Plan on Migration to step-up action against people smuggling and illegal migration.

    • Increasing cooperation against migrant smuggling, strengthening law enforcement and judicial cooperation, stepping-up efforts on returns, providing regional leadership and deterring irregular migration to Germany and the UK.
    • Germany is introducing a clarification in German legislation concerning the facilitation of irregular migration to the UK (to be brought to Cabinet with a view to be adopted by Parliament as soon as possible, within 2025).
    • This will establish an even stronger framework for law enforcement, policy and prosecutorial cooperation against organised crime groups smuggling and trafficking people. Aligning as regional leaders on irregular migration in forums such as the Calais Group and Berlin Process, developing joint approaches to key upstream routes.
    • Continuing to support one another to be innovative in managing our migration systems and delivering secure borders.

    5. Strategic Science and Technology Partnership

    We will together develop cutting-edge critical technologies – such as quantum, AI and digital, semiconductors, space capabilities, advanced connectivity, fusion and sustainable energy solutions including battery technologies – to drive long-term economic growth, by:

    • Conducting high-impact research, accelerating adoption of transformative technologies, enhancing supply chain resilience and contributing to an open and innovative business environment.
    • Exploring AI cooperation initiatives, enhancing UK-German innovation leadership, fostering further collaboration to accelerate breakthrough innovation, establishing a strategic space partnership, strengthening collaboration on semiconductors and facilitating closer cooperation between our two nations’ battery eco-systems.

    6. North Sea Energy Infrastructure Project

    We will work together to develop North Seas energy infrastructure – supporting economic growth and reducing bills through trade and infrastructure development.

    • Driving the development of offshore hybrid interconnection between the UK and Germany by the mid-2030s, including through exploring a Joint Declaration of Intent on Offshore Hybrid Assets for agreement at the North Sea Summit in January 2026.
    • Working together to accelerate the development of H2- and CO2-infrastructures.

    We will pave the way for a new direct rail connection between the UK and Germany.

    • Establishing formal cooperation between the two governments to address the barriers to establishing direct rail services between London and Germany within the next ten years.
    • Creating a task force, including Transport and Interior Ministries, to explore establishing juxtaposed controls.

    8. E-gates

    We will streamline leisure, educational, and business travel to Germany.

    • Rolling out the first phase of e-gates access for frequent travellers by the end of August, followed by roll out for all UK nationals as soon as technically possible.

    9. School trips and mobility of citizens

    We will make it easier for school groups to travel between the UK and Germany and consider ways to further enhance mobility between our people.

    • Delivering visa-free school group travel between the UK and Germany, increasing opportunities for linguistic, cultural and academic experiences. Rolling out the new scheme by the end of 2025.
    • Appointing a Joint Expert Group from across both governments to identify mutually agreeable solutions to UK and German mobility issues, including challenges faced by educational and scientific institutions, cultural bodies and political organisations.

    10. Business-Government Forum

    We will bring together German and UK businesses to exchange on business opportunities and to explore joint projects in order to drive growth, enabling our governments to draw upon the expertise and insights of our vibrant business communities.

    • Bringing together key stakeholders from Germany and the UK in this Forum to promote cooperation between German and UK companies and to identify areas of high growth potential in which UK-German cooperation will benefit the two economies.
    • This will be complemented by opportunities for direct exchange between senior business leaders and Ministers from both countries.

    11. Strategic conflict prevention and stabilisation partnership

    We will develop our global partnership to prevent conflict and build lasting peace.

    • Collaborating across international conflict prevention and resolution initiatives, including countering violent extremism; supporting security sector reform and working together to widen our engagement.
    • Sharing situational awareness, early warning, crisis data; collaborating on use of AI; and strengthening our commitment to the Women, Peace and Security agenda.

    12. Western Balkans stability and security

    The UK will host the German-born Berlin Process, bringing leaders of the six Western Balkans countries and other European states together to support stability, security and economic co-operation in the region.

    • Strengthening coordination between the UK and Germany to support long-term regional and broader European security
    • Driving joint initiatives under the Berlin Process and seeking tangible progress for the Western Balkans Six on their Euro-Atlantic paths.

    13. Indo-Pacific cooperation

    The UK and Germany commit to increased and sustained cooperation on the Indo-Pacific.

    • Strengthening coordination on regional and maritime security, share best practice on geo-economic affairs and secure growth, and strategically align efforts on climate change mitigation and adaptation in the Indo-Pacific.
    • This will include coordination between UK and Germany on initiatives across the Indo-Pacific cooperation workstream.

    14. Biosecurity Cooperation

    We will strengthen our capability to protect our nations and our interests from biological threats.

    • Exchanging information on the development of national biosecurity strategies, bolstering critical infrastructure (e.g. in health care), improving preparedness to state terrorism with biological agents, and preparing for new and re-emerging, highly pathogenic pathogens.
    • Establishing joint exercises and an emergency support system between the UK and Germany.

    15. Strategic sustainable development partnership

    We will deliver impact together on all aspects of sustainable development including growth and jobs, health and climate.

    • Building alliances to advance the 2030 Agenda, and reform international systems. Coordinating on global financial institutions, private sector mobilisation, climate and debt solutions, sustainable infrastructure, and climate resilient and inclusive growth.
    • Holding an annual Development Dialogue setting the strategic direction for our collaboration on development, focusing on shared expertise, new ideas and innovative tools to tackle key challenges and support Global South partners.

    16. Education, Culture, Sport

    We will boost opportunity and growth by putting young people and social mobility at the heart of a new era of educational, cultural and sporting cooperation.

    • Driving more school exchanges, focusing on lower socio-economic groups, creating new initiatives, delivered through existing mobility pathways, such as the first UK-German Creative Industries Prize and inaugural Youth Summit.
    • Delivering a revitalised UK-German Cultural & Education Commission, led by UK and German ministers, to identify and deliver new people-to-people initiatives, with a focus on driving opportunity for all.

    17. KfW/UK Public Financial Institutions collaboration

    Cooperation between our Public Financial Institutions will accelerate the investment needed to boost growth in our economies. * Deepening links between the British Business Bank, National Wealth Fund, and British International Investment) and Germany’s KfW to help mobilise private capital, develop well-functioning and sustainable markets * Sharing insights & best practice, enhancing operational/financial performance, seizing investment opportunities in areas of mutual interest, and exploring further opportunities to deepen cooperation.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Mashatile calls for SA and China to shift focus from raw material trade to collaborative industrialisation

    Source: Government of South Africa

    South Africa and China are at a crucial juncture in redefining their economic partnership, moving from a focus on raw material trade to a collaborative approach to industrialisation. 

    This is according to Deputy President Paul Mashatile, who was speaking during a working dinner with the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC) and Standard Bank at the China World Summit Wing Hotel Conference Hall in Beijing.

    “South Africa and China are at a pivotal moment to redefine our economic partnership, from raw material trade to co-industrialisation. Together, we can pave the way for a brighter future that brings prosperity to our people and strengthens the bonds between our nations.“

    The Deputy President emphasised the need for collaboration in strategic sectors to promote investment and trade in areas such as battery manufacturing, critical minerals, renewable energy, green hydrogen, infrastructure, rail modernisation, and metallurgy revitalisation.

    “South Africa presents significant investment opportunities in metallurgy and smelter revitalisation, driven by its rich mineral resources and the global shift towards a low-carbon economy.

    “Let us turn commitments into concrete projects that create jobs, transfer technology, and position South Africa as China’s gateway to Africa.”

    Mashatile is currently in China for a strategic working visit.

    The purpose of the visit, which began on Monday, is to strengthen bilateral relations and enhance economic cooperation between South Africa and China.

    He told the attendees that the gathering signifies the importance of fostering strong partnerships between South Africa and China in strategic sectors for investment and trade promotion. 

    “With the diversified resources of South Africa and the economic strength of China, there is a great deal that we can accomplish together. We must augment our collaboration, especially in critical industries poised for investment and trade.” 

    Currently, the Deputy President stated that South Africa and China have strong economic cooperation, with bilateral commerce amounting to US$34 billion in 2024 and Chinese foreign direct investment in South Africa being US$13.21 billion. 

    The Deputy President believes that this partnership is characterised by a growing trade relationship, with China being South Africa’s largest trading partner for 16 consecutive years.

    “A notable aspect of the trade relationship is the trade imbalance, where South Africa exports primarily raw materials to China and imports manufactured goods, creating a trade deficit for South Africa. South Africa needs to benefit more from its active, albeit highly unequal, trading partnership with China,” he said. 

    He said the dinner presented a strategic opportunity to leverage the institutions’ financial expertise and advisory market insights to deepen investment in SA’s priority sectors and to also address trade imbalances by promoting value-added exports and technology transfer. 

    The Deputy President said the platform was crucial to advancing partnerships in renewable energy, critical minerals, infrastructure, and manufacturing under the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) framework.

    “Through the process of recognising and capitalising on these key sectors, we can create an environment in which both of our economies benefit and in which we make progress towards our common objectives.

    “I am certain that the many areas of expertise and knowledge that have been collected around these tables will make it possible for us to devise specific plans and strategies that can be put into action, which will propel our partnership ahead.” 

    He also highlighted some opportunities in green industrialisation, infrastructure financing, and export diversification. 

    “In addition to a rapidly expanding renewable energy industry, the country’s plentiful natural resources, which include minerals that are essential for the development of environmentally friendly technology, provide a solid basis for the expansion of green industrialisation.” 

    Meanwhile, he stressed that strategic investments in infrastructure, particularly in water and sanitation, and a focus on export diversification can further drive sustainable economic development and job creation. 

    Mashatile said there was potential for South Africa and China to work together to foster innovation, the transfer of technology, and the development of skills.

    “There is the potential for us to form partnerships that are beneficial to both parties if we capitalise on our skills and explore new ways of working together.

    “Through partnership and working together for a common purpose, we can realise the full potential of both our countries.” – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI: Form 8.3 – AXA INVESTMENT MANAGERS: NCC Group

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORM 8.3

    PUBLIC OPENING POSITION DISCLOSURE/DEALING DISCLOSURE BY
    A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR MORE
    Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)

    1.        KEY INFORMATION

    (a)   Full name of discloser: AXA Investment Managers S.A.
    (b)   Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):
            The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.
     
    (c)   Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
            Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree
    NCC Group plc
    (d)   If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree:  
    (e)   Date position held/dealing undertaken:
            For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure
    16 July 2025
    (f)   In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?
            If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”
    NO

    2.        POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.

    (a)      Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)

    Class of relevant security: 1p ordinary
      Interests Short positions
      Number % Number %
    (1)   Relevant securities owned and/or controlled: 7,372,318 2.34    
    (2)   Cash-settled derivatives:        
    (3)   Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:        
    TOTAL: 7,372,318 2.34    

    All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

    Details of any open stock-settled derivative positions (including traded options), or agreements to purchase or sell relevant securities, should be given on a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions).

    (b)      Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)

    Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:  
    Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:  

    3.        DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.

    The currency of all prices and other monetary amounts should be stated.

    (a)        Purchases and sales

    Class of relevant security Purchase/sale Number of securities Price per unit
           

    (b)        Cash-settled derivative transactions

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. CFD
    Nature of dealing
    e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position
    Number of reference securities Price per unit
             

    (c)        Stock-settled derivative transactions (including options)

    (i)        Writing, selling, purchasing or varying

    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc. Number of securities to which option relates Exercise price per unit Type
    e.g. American, European etc.
    Expiry date Option money paid/ received per unit
                   

    (ii)        Exercise

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. call option
    Exercising/ exercised against Number of securities Exercise price per unit
             

    (d)        Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)

    Class of relevant security Nature of dealing
    e.g. subscription, conversion
    Details Price per unit (if applicable)
           

    4.        OTHER INFORMATION

    (a)        Indemnity and other dealing arrangements

    Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer:
    Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included. If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”
    None

    (b)        Agreements, arrangements or understandings relating to options or derivatives

    Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to:
    (i)   the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or
    (ii)   the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced:
    If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”
    None

    (c)        Attachments

    Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? NO
    Date of disclosure: 17 July 2025
    Contact name: Sabrina AID
    Telephone number*: +33 1 44 45 58 79

    Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service.

    The Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code’s disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.

    *If the discloser is a natural person, a telephone number does not need to be included, provided contact information has been provided to the Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit.

    The Code can be viewed on the Panel’s website at www.thetakeoverpanel.org.uk.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Champion Safe Company Accelerates Market Growth with Strategic Dealer Expansion in Colorado

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New Leadership at Champion Safe, a Division of American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AREB), Crystallizes Strategic Vision for Market Share Growth Across Patriotic-Branded Divisions

    PROVO, UT, July 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Champion Safe Company (www.championsafe.com), a leading manufacturer of high-security safes and proud subsidiary of American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AREB), America’s Patriotic Brand, proudly announces its newest dealer partnership with Seaworth Safe Sales, a trusted and respected retailer serving Colorado’s Front Range for decades.

    The move marks a powerful expansion into the Rocky Mountain market, one of the fastest-growing regions for premium safe demand driven by outdoor lifestyles, responsible firearm ownership, and regulated cannabis storage. Seaworth brings deep regional expertise and customer trust, making them an ideal partner for Champion’s next growth chapter.

    “The Seaworth partnership is a strong validation of our brand momentum,” said Tom Mihalek, CEO of Champion Safe Company. “A six-figure, two-truckload opening order isn’t just a purchase—it’s a commitment to what Champion now stands for: precision, performance, and market readiness. The Seaworth deal isn’t just another dealer activation—it’s a strategic signal that leading dealers like Seaworth believe in what we’re building. And we’re ready to continue to earn that trust every day.”

    Since Mihalek took the reins in early 2024, Champion has focused intensely on product optimization and SKU rationalization, dialing in the safes customers actually want and cutting the noise. Supported by improved internal analytics, enhanced dealer feedback loops, and refined regional data, Champion is now delivering smarter product mixes tailored to each market segment, customer profile and consumer demand—streamlining inventory and improving sell-through rates.

    Seaworth is the latest to tap into that momentum, joining a growing roster of respected dealers embracing Champion’s reengineered path forward.

    A little over one year into Tom Mihalek’s leadership the disciplined approach is paying off: new dealer activations are rising, existing dealers are increasing their orders, and Champion is regaining ground as a leader in American-made secure storage.

    Champion still focuses on quality but American made craftsmanship as All Champion safe models are made from 100% American-made, high-strength steel and equally as important We build all of our own safes. No China-Build imports Lifetime warranty on everything we build.

    “We’re proud to have Seaworth Safe Sales on board,” said Jon Minder, Vice President of Sales & Marketing at Champion Safe. “Their decision to partner with us reinforces the value of our recent product enhancements, dealer-first approach, and unwavering commitment to American craftsmanship—qualities today’s customers truly demand.”

    Champion Safe Company is well-positioned to grab market share and drive revenue growth, supported by better tools, better information, and better products. As American Rebel Holdings continues its expansion across safes, apparel, and beverages, the mission remains the same: help Americans protect what they value most—with gear they can trust.

    Contact: ir@americanrebel.com

    About Champion Safe Company

    Champion Safe Company has been at the forefront of safe manufacturing for over 25 years, offering a range of high-quality safes designed for ultimate security and fire protection. With a commitment to craftsmanship and innovation, Champion Safes are trusted by homeowners, gun owners, and businesses across the nation. To learn more, visit: championsafe.com

    About American Rebel Holdings, Inc.

    American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AREB) designs, manufactures, and markets branded safes, personal protection products, apparel, and patriotic beverages. The Company continues to evolve as a multi-industry lifestyle brand aligned with American values. Learn more at americanrebel.com and americanrebelbeer.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. American Rebel Holdings, Inc., (NASDAQ: AREB; AREBW) (the “Company,” “American Rebel,” “we,” “our” or “us”) desires to take advantage of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and is including this cautionary statement in connection with this safe harbor legislation. The words “forecasts” “believe,” “may,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “should,” “plan,” “could,” “target,” “potential,” “is likely,” “expect” and similar expressions, as they relate to us, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. We have based these forward-looking statements primarily on our current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends that we believe may affect our financial condition, results of operations, business strategy, and financial needs. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ from those in the forward-looking statements include benefits of dealer expansion, actual revenues for fiscal 2025, our ability to effectively execute our business plan, and the Risk Factors contained within our filings with the SEC, including our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023. Any forward-looking statement made by us herein speaks only as of the date on which it is made. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Wedbush Securities Welcomes Daniel Shea as Managing Director of Consumer & Diversified Industries Investment Banking

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LOS ANGELES, July 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Wedbush Securities, a prominent financial services firm, has hired Daniel Shea as Managing Director in its Consumer & Diversified Industries Investment Banking group. In this role, Shea will play a key part in expanding and strengthening Wedbush’s Consumer & Diversified Companies investment banking coverage, drawing on his deep industry expertise and track record in consumer-related companies.

    Shea joins from BTIG, LLC, where he served as Managing Director and led the buildout of the firm’s consumer-focused investment banking group. With nearly 20 years of experience, Shea brings deep expertise in specialty retail, e-commerce, branded consumer products and restaurants. Earlier in his career, he held senior banking positions at firms including Keen-Summit Capital Partners, Canaccord Genuity, Sterne Agee-CRT and Janney Montgomery Scott.

    Shea’s notable deals include the spin-out of Twin Peaks from Fat Brands, the de-SPAC and IPO of Pinstripes, and a private convertible financing for FreshRealm. He also advised on the sale-leaseback and subsequent capital raise for Chicken N Pickle, BurgerFi’s acquisition of Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza, Drive Shack’s follow-on equity offering, and the sale of Hampton Forge to Lennox Corporation.

    “I’m excited to join a team that appreciates the consumer sector and focuses on supporting entrepreneurs through pivotal moments of growth,” Shea said. “Wedbush’s collaborative and creative solution-driven culture aligns closely with how I’ve built my relationships over the years, and I look forward to replicating my past success for the Wedbush platform.”

    “I’ve known Dan for a decade and have always appreciated his conscientious service to clients—something I know he’ll bring with him to Wedbush,” shared Burke Dempsey, EVP and Head of Investment Banking & Capital Markets. “His history of advising on complex transactions across the consumer landscape makes him a strong strategic partner for our firm’s expansion and enhances our ability to deliver sector-specific insights and senior-level executions to our clients.”

    Shea’s appointment adds to Wedbush’s domain expertise across key growth sectors, strengthening the firm’s ability to deliver strategic insight and advisory excellence to clients.

    About Wedbush Securities
    Wedbush Securities is the largest subsidiary of Wedbush Financial Services. Since its founding in 1955, Wedbush is widely known for providing our clients, both private and institutional, with a wide range of securities brokerage, clearing, wealth management, and investment banking services. Headquartered in Los Angeles, California with 100 registered offices and nearly 900 colleagues, the firm focuses on client service and financial safety, innovation, and the utilization of advanced technology. Securities and Investment Advisory services are offered through Wedbush Securities Inc. Member NYSE/ FINRA / SIPC 

    Media Inquiries:
    Serina Molano
    publicrelations@wedbush.com
    213-688-4564

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b996a4f4-d7f2-405f-ac4c-06647429f422

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Wedbush Securities Welcomes Daniel Shea as Managing Director of Consumer & Diversified Industries Investment Banking

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LOS ANGELES, July 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Wedbush Securities, a prominent financial services firm, has hired Daniel Shea as Managing Director in its Consumer & Diversified Industries Investment Banking group. In this role, Shea will play a key part in expanding and strengthening Wedbush’s Consumer & Diversified Companies investment banking coverage, drawing on his deep industry expertise and track record in consumer-related companies.

    Shea joins from BTIG, LLC, where he served as Managing Director and led the buildout of the firm’s consumer-focused investment banking group. With nearly 20 years of experience, Shea brings deep expertise in specialty retail, e-commerce, branded consumer products and restaurants. Earlier in his career, he held senior banking positions at firms including Keen-Summit Capital Partners, Canaccord Genuity, Sterne Agee-CRT and Janney Montgomery Scott.

    Shea’s notable deals include the spin-out of Twin Peaks from Fat Brands, the de-SPAC and IPO of Pinstripes, and a private convertible financing for FreshRealm. He also advised on the sale-leaseback and subsequent capital raise for Chicken N Pickle, BurgerFi’s acquisition of Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza, Drive Shack’s follow-on equity offering, and the sale of Hampton Forge to Lennox Corporation.

    “I’m excited to join a team that appreciates the consumer sector and focuses on supporting entrepreneurs through pivotal moments of growth,” Shea said. “Wedbush’s collaborative and creative solution-driven culture aligns closely with how I’ve built my relationships over the years, and I look forward to replicating my past success for the Wedbush platform.”

    “I’ve known Dan for a decade and have always appreciated his conscientious service to clients—something I know he’ll bring with him to Wedbush,” shared Burke Dempsey, EVP and Head of Investment Banking & Capital Markets. “His history of advising on complex transactions across the consumer landscape makes him a strong strategic partner for our firm’s expansion and enhances our ability to deliver sector-specific insights and senior-level executions to our clients.”

    Shea’s appointment adds to Wedbush’s domain expertise across key growth sectors, strengthening the firm’s ability to deliver strategic insight and advisory excellence to clients.

    About Wedbush Securities
    Wedbush Securities is the largest subsidiary of Wedbush Financial Services. Since its founding in 1955, Wedbush is widely known for providing our clients, both private and institutional, with a wide range of securities brokerage, clearing, wealth management, and investment banking services. Headquartered in Los Angeles, California with 100 registered offices and nearly 900 colleagues, the firm focuses on client service and financial safety, innovation, and the utilization of advanced technology. Securities and Investment Advisory services are offered through Wedbush Securities Inc. Member NYSE/ FINRA / SIPC 

    Media Inquiries:
    Serina Molano
    publicrelations@wedbush.com
    213-688-4564

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b996a4f4-d7f2-405f-ac4c-06647429f422

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Wedbush Securities Welcomes Daniel Shea as Managing Director of Consumer & Diversified Industries Investment Banking

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LOS ANGELES, July 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Wedbush Securities, a prominent financial services firm, has hired Daniel Shea as Managing Director in its Consumer & Diversified Industries Investment Banking group. In this role, Shea will play a key part in expanding and strengthening Wedbush’s Consumer & Diversified Companies investment banking coverage, drawing on his deep industry expertise and track record in consumer-related companies.

    Shea joins from BTIG, LLC, where he served as Managing Director and led the buildout of the firm’s consumer-focused investment banking group. With nearly 20 years of experience, Shea brings deep expertise in specialty retail, e-commerce, branded consumer products and restaurants. Earlier in his career, he held senior banking positions at firms including Keen-Summit Capital Partners, Canaccord Genuity, Sterne Agee-CRT and Janney Montgomery Scott.

    Shea’s notable deals include the spin-out of Twin Peaks from Fat Brands, the de-SPAC and IPO of Pinstripes, and a private convertible financing for FreshRealm. He also advised on the sale-leaseback and subsequent capital raise for Chicken N Pickle, BurgerFi’s acquisition of Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza, Drive Shack’s follow-on equity offering, and the sale of Hampton Forge to Lennox Corporation.

    “I’m excited to join a team that appreciates the consumer sector and focuses on supporting entrepreneurs through pivotal moments of growth,” Shea said. “Wedbush’s collaborative and creative solution-driven culture aligns closely with how I’ve built my relationships over the years, and I look forward to replicating my past success for the Wedbush platform.”

    “I’ve known Dan for a decade and have always appreciated his conscientious service to clients—something I know he’ll bring with him to Wedbush,” shared Burke Dempsey, EVP and Head of Investment Banking & Capital Markets. “His history of advising on complex transactions across the consumer landscape makes him a strong strategic partner for our firm’s expansion and enhances our ability to deliver sector-specific insights and senior-level executions to our clients.”

    Shea’s appointment adds to Wedbush’s domain expertise across key growth sectors, strengthening the firm’s ability to deliver strategic insight and advisory excellence to clients.

    About Wedbush Securities
    Wedbush Securities is the largest subsidiary of Wedbush Financial Services. Since its founding in 1955, Wedbush is widely known for providing our clients, both private and institutional, with a wide range of securities brokerage, clearing, wealth management, and investment banking services. Headquartered in Los Angeles, California with 100 registered offices and nearly 900 colleagues, the firm focuses on client service and financial safety, innovation, and the utilization of advanced technology. Securities and Investment Advisory services are offered through Wedbush Securities Inc. Member NYSE/ FINRA / SIPC 

    Media Inquiries:
    Serina Molano
    publicrelations@wedbush.com
    213-688-4564

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b996a4f4-d7f2-405f-ac4c-06647429f422

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Form 8.3 – [MARLOWE PLC – 16 07 2025] – (CGWL)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORM 8.3

    PUBLIC OPENING POSITION DISCLOSURE/DEALING DISCLOSURE BY
    A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR MORE
    Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)

    1.        KEY INFORMATION

    (a)   Full name of discloser: CANACCORD GENUITY WEALTH LIMITED (for Discretionary clients)
    (b)   Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):
            The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.
    N/A
    (c)   Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
            Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree
    MARLOWE PLC
    (d)   If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree: N/A
    (e)   Date position held/dealing undertaken:
            For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure
    16 JULY 2025
    (f)   In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?
            If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”
    NO

    2.        POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.

    (a)      Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)

    Class of relevant security: 50p ORDINARY
      Interests Short positions
    Number % Number %
    (1)   Relevant securities owned and/or controlled: 3,008,608 3.8315    
    (2)   Cash-settled derivatives:        
    (3)   Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:        
    TOTAL: 3,008,608 3.8315    

    All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

    Details of any open stock-settled derivative positions (including traded options), or agreements to purchase or sell relevant securities, should be given on a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions).

    (b)      Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)

    Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:  
    Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:  

    3.        DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.

    The currency of all prices and other monetary amounts should be stated.

    (a)        Purchases and sales

    Class of relevant security Purchase/sale Number of securities Price per unit
    50p ORDINARY SALE 4,445 437.6p

    (b)        Cash-settled derivative transactions

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. CFD
    Nature of dealing
    e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position
    Number of reference securities Price per unit
    NONE        

    (c)        Stock-settled derivative transactions (including options)

    (i)        Writing, selling, purchasing or varying

    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc. Number of securities to which option relates Exercise price per unit Type
    e.g. American, European etc.
    Expiry date Option money paid/ received per unit
    NONE              

    (ii)        Exercise

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. call option
    Exercising/ exercised against Number of securities Exercise price per unit

    (d)        Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)

    Class of relevant security Nature of dealing
    e.g. subscription, conversion
    Details Price per unit (if applicable)
    NONE      

    4.        OTHER INFORMATION

    (a)        Indemnity and other dealing arrangements

    Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer:
    Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included. If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”

    NONE

    (b)        Agreements, arrangements or understandings relating to options or derivatives

    Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to:
    (i)   the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or
    (ii)   the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced:
    If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”

    NONE

    (c)        Attachments

    Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? NO
    Date of disclosure: 17 JULY 2025
    Contact name: MARK ELLIOTT
    Telephone number: 01253 376539

    Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service.

    The Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code’s disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.

    The Code can be viewed on the Panel’s website at www.thetakeoverpanel.org.uk.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Form 8.3 – [MARLOWE PLC – 16 07 2025] – (CGWL)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORM 8.3

    PUBLIC OPENING POSITION DISCLOSURE/DEALING DISCLOSURE BY
    A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR MORE
    Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)

    1.        KEY INFORMATION

    (a)   Full name of discloser: CANACCORD GENUITY WEALTH LIMITED (for Discretionary clients)
    (b)   Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):
            The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.
    N/A
    (c)   Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
            Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree
    MARLOWE PLC
    (d)   If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree: N/A
    (e)   Date position held/dealing undertaken:
            For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure
    16 JULY 2025
    (f)   In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?
            If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”
    NO

    2.        POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.

    (a)      Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)

    Class of relevant security: 50p ORDINARY
      Interests Short positions
    Number % Number %
    (1)   Relevant securities owned and/or controlled: 3,008,608 3.8315    
    (2)   Cash-settled derivatives:        
    (3)   Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:        
    TOTAL: 3,008,608 3.8315    

    All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

    Details of any open stock-settled derivative positions (including traded options), or agreements to purchase or sell relevant securities, should be given on a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions).

    (b)      Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)

    Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:  
    Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:  

    3.        DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.

    The currency of all prices and other monetary amounts should be stated.

    (a)        Purchases and sales

    Class of relevant security Purchase/sale Number of securities Price per unit
    50p ORDINARY SALE 4,445 437.6p

    (b)        Cash-settled derivative transactions

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. CFD
    Nature of dealing
    e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position
    Number of reference securities Price per unit
    NONE        

    (c)        Stock-settled derivative transactions (including options)

    (i)        Writing, selling, purchasing or varying

    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc. Number of securities to which option relates Exercise price per unit Type
    e.g. American, European etc.
    Expiry date Option money paid/ received per unit
    NONE              

    (ii)        Exercise

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. call option
    Exercising/ exercised against Number of securities Exercise price per unit

    (d)        Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)

    Class of relevant security Nature of dealing
    e.g. subscription, conversion
    Details Price per unit (if applicable)
    NONE      

    4.        OTHER INFORMATION

    (a)        Indemnity and other dealing arrangements

    Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer:
    Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included. If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”

    NONE

    (b)        Agreements, arrangements or understandings relating to options or derivatives

    Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to:
    (i)   the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or
    (ii)   the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced:
    If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”

    NONE

    (c)        Attachments

    Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? NO
    Date of disclosure: 17 JULY 2025
    Contact name: MARK ELLIOTT
    Telephone number: 01253 376539

    Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service.

    The Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code’s disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.

    The Code can be viewed on the Panel’s website at www.thetakeoverpanel.org.uk.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Form 8.3 – [MARLOWE PLC – 16 07 2025] – (CGWL)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORM 8.3

    PUBLIC OPENING POSITION DISCLOSURE/DEALING DISCLOSURE BY
    A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR MORE
    Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)

    1.        KEY INFORMATION

    (a)   Full name of discloser: CANACCORD GENUITY WEALTH LIMITED (for Discretionary clients)
    (b)   Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):
            The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.
    N/A
    (c)   Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
            Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree
    MARLOWE PLC
    (d)   If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree: N/A
    (e)   Date position held/dealing undertaken:
            For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure
    16 JULY 2025
    (f)   In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?
            If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”
    NO

    2.        POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.

    (a)      Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)

    Class of relevant security: 50p ORDINARY
      Interests Short positions
    Number % Number %
    (1)   Relevant securities owned and/or controlled: 3,008,608 3.8315    
    (2)   Cash-settled derivatives:        
    (3)   Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:        
    TOTAL: 3,008,608 3.8315    

    All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

    Details of any open stock-settled derivative positions (including traded options), or agreements to purchase or sell relevant securities, should be given on a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions).

    (b)      Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)

    Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:  
    Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:  

    3.        DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.

    The currency of all prices and other monetary amounts should be stated.

    (a)        Purchases and sales

    Class of relevant security Purchase/sale Number of securities Price per unit
    50p ORDINARY SALE 4,445 437.6p

    (b)        Cash-settled derivative transactions

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. CFD
    Nature of dealing
    e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position
    Number of reference securities Price per unit
    NONE        

    (c)        Stock-settled derivative transactions (including options)

    (i)        Writing, selling, purchasing or varying

    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc. Number of securities to which option relates Exercise price per unit Type
    e.g. American, European etc.
    Expiry date Option money paid/ received per unit
    NONE              

    (ii)        Exercise

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. call option
    Exercising/ exercised against Number of securities Exercise price per unit

    (d)        Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)

    Class of relevant security Nature of dealing
    e.g. subscription, conversion
    Details Price per unit (if applicable)
    NONE      

    4.        OTHER INFORMATION

    (a)        Indemnity and other dealing arrangements

    Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer:
    Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included. If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”

    NONE

    (b)        Agreements, arrangements or understandings relating to options or derivatives

    Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to:
    (i)   the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or
    (ii)   the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced:
    If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”

    NONE

    (c)        Attachments

    Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? NO
    Date of disclosure: 17 JULY 2025
    Contact name: MARK ELLIOTT
    Telephone number: 01253 376539

    Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service.

    The Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code’s disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.

    The Code can be viewed on the Panel’s website at www.thetakeoverpanel.org.uk.

    The MIL Network