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Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Antimony mining on Chios: social and environmental risks – E-000429/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000429/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Afroditi Latinopoulou (PfE)

    Recently, the Greek Government announced plans to mine antimony (by means of surface and underground mining) in a forested region bordering a Natura 2000 site (GR4130003) in northern Chios. The area to be mined includes villages, settlements and thermal springs, raising serious concerns about the impact on groundwater and public health.

    According to recital 17 of Regulation (EU) 2024/1252 on ensuring a secure and sustainable supply of critical raw materials in the EU, new projects should be planned and implemented sustainably, ensuring environmental protection and preventing socially adverse impacts through transparent business practices.

    In view of the above, can the Commission say:

    • 1.Is it aware of the planned mining activities in northern Chios and their possible impact on the environment, social cohesion and the quality of the island’s drinking water?
    • 2.Has it considered alternative solutions for the supply of antimony, such as recycling or parallel extraction from copper, lead and gold mines, as is done in other countries?
    • 3.How will it ensure that environmental studies and due diligence procedures are carried out in a transparent and objective manner, protecting the interests of residents and the island as a priority?

    Submitted: 30.1.2025

    Last updated: 10 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Obstacle to competition in France’s outlying territories: upholding EU law in the face of the high cost of living – P-000461/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-000461/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Marie Toussaint (Verts/ALE), Rasmus Andresen (Verts/ALE), David Cormand (Verts/ALE), Mounir Satouri (Verts/ALE), Younous Omarjee (The Left), Nora Mebarek (S&D), Anthony Smith (The Left), Arash Saeidi (The Left), Emma Rafowicz (S&D), Pierre Jouvet (S&D), Emma Fourreau (The Left), Thomas Pellerin-Carlin (S&D), Claire Fita (S&D), Manon Aubry (The Left), Damien Carême (The Left), Murielle Laurent (S&D), Jean-Marc Germain (S&D), Raphaël Glucksmann (S&D), Leila Chaibi (The Left), Rima Hassan (The Left)

    France’s overseas territories suffer from an economic and social situation which is unacceptable: prices of basic necessities are considerably higher than in mainland France (+ 40% in Martinique, + 39% in French Guyana and + 78% in New Caledonia) and are reaching excessive levels. A number of official reports and independent investigations have uncovered quasi-monopolies and oligopolies, suggesting the existence of cartel and anti-competitive practices detrimental to the people living there.

    It is therefore likely that in these territories EU legislation on the transparency of company accounts and the functioning of the internal market is being infringed. The French authorities have so far been unable to resolve these difficulties alone so as to enforce European law and protect citizens effectively.

    • 1.Does the Commission intend to verify France’s application of Regulation (EC) No 250/2009 and, if necessary, open infringement proceedings?
    • 2.Does it intend to launch an antitrust investigation against the Bernard Hayot Group and the groups that dominate the outermost regions’ markets in the distribution, transport, automotive, agriculture and banking sectors?
    • 3.How can the concept of abuse of a dominant position be assessed differently in these sectors?

    Submitted: 3.2.2025

    Last updated: 10 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New satellite deal to boost military operations, jobs and growth

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    Armed forces personnel will have access to the latest space-based imagery for military operations, following a deal signed for a new satellite system, named Oberon.

    • New satellite system to enhance military operations, named ‘Oberon’, will be designed and built in the UK.
    • The £127 million contract with Airbus will support around 200 skilled jobs in Stevenage and Portsmouth, boosting the UK’s space sector and delivering on the government’s Plan for Change. 
    • Oberon will strengthen the UK’s intelligence, reconnaissance and surveillance capabilities. 

    Armed forces personnel will have access to the latest space-based imagery for military operations, following a deal signed for a new satellite system, named Oberon. 

    The £127 million deal with Airbus will support around 200 skilled jobs in Stevenage and Portsmouth, boosting the UK’s space capabilities and delivering on the Government’s Plan for Change. 

    The Oberon satellite system, made up of two Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellites, will be able to capture day and night-time images of the Earth’s surface, strengthening the UK’s Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities. Expected to launch in 2027, Oberon will have advanced imagery sensors, building on the capabilities of Tyche, UK Space Command’s first satellite which successfully launched in August last year.  

    The deal comes as UK Space Command has published the first images captured by Tyche. The images of Heathrow Airport, Sydney, Washington DC, and the California wildfires, demonstrate Tyche’s ability to capture imagery from anywhere on earth when Defence needs it.  

    Both satellites form part of the Ministry of Defence’s space-based Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance programme, known as ISTARI, which will deliver a constellation of satellites and supporting ground systems by 2031.  

    These satellites will support military operations, for example by monitoring adversary activities, and contribute to other government tasks, including natural disaster monitoring, the development of mapping information, and tracking the impact of climate change around the world.   

    UK Space Commander, Major General Paul Tedman said:   

    Through UK Space Command, defence is partnering with industry and continuing to invest in advanced and innovative space technologies.

    Oberon, alongside Tyche and other satellites in our ISTARI constellation, will allow us to observe what’s happening on Earth from space at any time and through any weather. This will enable and enhance UK and allied military operations around the world.

    The contract for Oberon was awarded via competitive procurement to Airbus, which worked with Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises across the UK to leverage innovative new technologies for the 400kg satellites. The antennas for the spacecraft will be supplied by Oxford Space Systems, which has developed carbon fibre structures that stow away in very small volumes for launch but spring into shape once in orbit.  

    Oberon will play a key part in securing critical UK skills in the growing global space sector. The aerospace sector added almost £40 billion to the economy last year, a growth of 50% in the last 10 years, and employs tens of thousands of people. The project will also help inform the procurement strategy for future space capability requirements. 

    Space-based intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance offers unparalleled earth observation, operating over any part of the globe. Constellations of ISR satellites can use different sensors and cameras, allowing focus to move quickly from one area of the world to another. In contrast to conventional cameras, Oberon will use Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) to capture imagery in all-weather conditions. 

    Ben Bridge, Airbus Defence and Space UK Chairman, said: 

    Oberon’s satellites will give the UK a much-needed sovereign capability and greatly enhance its space surveillance autonomy.  

    Airbus in the UK has more than 45 years’ experience in the design and build of high-resolution radar satellites and, once in orbit, these spacecraft will play a vital role in keeping our Armed Forces safe around the world.

    Paul Russell, Space team leader at DE&S said:  

    This has been a superb team effort by members of DE&S, Space Command, DSTL and industry.  

    With the award of the Oberon contract, we will deliver the next in a series game changing capabilities to UK Space Command providing the UK military with leading Space Based Synthetic Aperture Radar whilst helping to keep our nation safe and prosperous.  

    We are looking forwards to working with Airbus as our Mission Partner to deliver this important capability together.

    Updates to this page

    Published 10 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Polytechnic University and UK KER-Holding: six-year cooperation

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    In the research laboratory “Laser and Additive Technologies” of the Institute of Mechanical Engineering of Materials and Transport of SPbPU, acceptance tests of the laser powder cladding complex were carried out. Specialists of the company “UK KER-Holding” assessed the configuration and capabilities of the manufactured installation.

    Polytechnic University and the management company “Complex Energy Development-Holding” began to cooperate in 2019, when the organization was choosing reliable partners for the repair of gas turbine engines. Over six years, specialists from the Research Laboratory “LiAT” of IMMiT have completed more than 20 projects. Now two projects are being implemented at once: the commissioning of the complex and the repair of the second-stage working blades of the GTE.

    In addition, the Polytechnic University conducted acceptance tests of the laser powder cladding complex. The customer was represented by the chief metallurgist of UK KER-Holding Yuri Dvoeglazov, investment director Zufar Idrisov and chief designer Nikolai Tsyganov.

    Successful completion of acceptance tests under the contract for the supply of the unit is another starting point in cooperation with the company. Our specialists developed technical documentation and manufactured the complex. We demonstrated the surfacing process in real conditions to the receiving party, – said Mikhail Kuznetsov, head of the Research Laboratory “LiAT” of IMMiT.

    Laser powder cladding and direct laser deposition are modern technologies that allow creating materials and products with high precision and quality. They are used in various industries, such as medicine, aviation, space exploration, energy, mechanical engineering and others.

    We can confidently talk about the fruitful work carried out over six years of cooperation. In the Polytech-KER-Holding team, specialists have completed many projects and solved a large number of “starred” problems. Direct evidence of this is the serial repair of working and nozzle blades of gas turbine engines and the creation of a laser powder cladding complex with technology transfer, – shared Yuri Dvoeglazov.

    It is gratifying that the interaction between the Polytechnic University and UK KER-Holding is actively developing. The employees of the Research Laboratory LiAT make a worthy contribution to strengthening the ties. Long-term cooperation in the field of repair of nozzle units using the laser powder cladding method is of great importance for the development of the energy industry, – noted the Director of IMMiT Anatoly Popovich.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Energy in the spotlight as Benjamin Dousa visits Moldova

    Source: Government of Sweden

    Energy in the spotlight as Benjamin Dousa visits Moldova – Government.se

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    Press release from Ministry for Foreign Affairs

    Published

    On 10–11 February, Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade Benjamin Dousa is visiting Moldova to hold discussions about the energy situation following Russia’s Gazprom suspending its gas supplies.

    “Suspending gas supplies is a way for Russia to undermine Moldova’s political and economic stability. This is why it’s important to support Moldova at this critical juncture,” says Mr Dousa.

    During the visit, Mr Dousa will meet with Moldova’s Prime Minister Dorin Recean and Minister of Foreign Affairs Mihai Popșoi. Mr Dousa will also meet with representatives of civil society and the private sector for discussions around energy issues, resilience and Moldova’s path to EU accession.

    Energy is an important component of Sweden’s long-term reform efforts with Moldova. Sweden provides support in areas such as increased access to sustainable energy solutions for agriculture and households in rural areas, as well as the development of district heating systems in the capital Chisinau. This cooperation enables Sweden to contribute to the green transition and to reducing the country’s reliance on Russian energy.

    Swedish support to Moldova

    Sweden provides extensive and long-term bilateral reform support to Moldova that aims to support the country’s path to EU accession. The support focuses on democracy, the rule of law, security, market economy development and the environment and climate. Sweden’s reform cooperation with Moldova is governed by a regional Eastern Europe strategy for the period 2021–2027, comprising a total of SEK 6.6 billion for the whole region. In 2023, Sweden’s development assistance to Moldova totalled over SEK 520 million, which included a support package to the energy sector worth SEK 300 million.

    Press contact

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Get help and Swap to Stop smoking

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    The Government aims for the country to become ‘smokefree’ by 2030, and is offering a million free ‘Swap to Stop’ vaping kits which, combined with behavioural support, are designed to help them quit smoking.

    The City of Wolverhampton Council has made these available at a range of community venues, including the city’s 8 Family Hubs and Central and Warstones libraries.

    The service is being delivered by trained members of staff who offer free vape starter kits alongside support and weekly ‘check-in’ sessions delivered from the convenience of local community venues to help people on their quitting journey over a period of 12 weeks.

    Scores of would be quitters have already come forward to get help – and others are invited to sign up for free at Swap to Stop.

    Councillor Jasbir Jaspal, Cabinet Member for Adults and Wellbeing, said: “Stopping smoking is the best thing you can do for your health and the health of those around you.

    “It is still the single largest preventable cause of death in England, accounting for around for 64,000 deaths annually. Almost every minute of every day someone is admitted to hospital with a smoking related disease – but, when you stop smoking, there are almost immediate improvements to your health.

    “And it’s not just your body which will benefit, your purse or wallet will too. On average smokers spend around £40 per week on tobacco – and that means you could have around £2,000 more to spend a year by quitting, and even more if you are a really heavy smoker.

    “Nicotine vaping is substantially less harmful than smoking and is also one of the most effective tools for quitting, so we are pleased to be delivering Swap to Stop support in Wolverhampton. If you want to quit, please sign up today.”

    For more help and support to stop smoking, please visit Quit Smoking.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Consultation launches to help shape Plymouth’s disability adaptation services

    Source: City of Plymouth

    A consultation has launched to help shape the Council’s independent living assistance policy.

    Last year, Plymouth was granted £3m to help deliver disability adaptions in the city.

    Disabled Facilities Grants (DFGs) are financial grants provided by the government to support individuals with disabilities in adapting their homes to improve accessibility and safety.

    The grant provides essential funding to help disabled individuals live safely and independently at home. Whether it’s installing ramps, adapting bathrooms, or making other vital changes, this support transforms everyday living for those who need it.

    Over the past two decades, DFGs have become a key tool in supporting the inclusion of disabled people, allowing them to maintain autonomy, dignity and reduce reliance on care. 

    Over the last three years, the Council have supported over 500 adaptations in homes.

    Teresa recently had a ramp installed on the outside of her home, in the below video, she explains how much this has made a difference to her life.

    Councillor Chris Penberthy, Cabinet Member for Housing, Cooperative Development and Communities, said: “The consultation is imperative to shaping our independent living assistance policy.

    “The adaptations make a huge difference to people’s lives. It is important to hear from residents like Teresa who have had adaptations made in their home to support their life, and how this has made a difference for her, to help shape our services for the future.

    “We ask residents to please fill out the consultation to help us shape our services for the future, and if you have had adaptations made in your home, please let us know.”

    The consultation closes on Friday 14 March.

    As part of the consultation, we will be holding two in-person workshops on 26 February.

    If you feel you could benefit from home adaptations, please email the Community Connections Team at [email protected]

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Live Here Love Here award for Dromore environmental group

    Source: Northern Ireland City of Armagh

    Liz Burke-Jones from Higher Ground Community Gardening Group, Julie Reynolds from Higher Ground Community Gardening Group, Lord Mayor of ABC Borough, Cllr Sarah Duffy, Lynda Surgenor, Live Here Love Here Manager, Deirdre Shannon from Higher Ground Community Gardening Group, and Brian Shannon from Higher Ground Community Gardening Group.

    Dromore’s Higher Ground Community Gardening Group were crowned the ABC Borough Regional Champions at last week’s Live Here Love Here Community Awards.

    Live Here Love Here, a people-powered campaign dedicated to improving the local environment and fostering civic pride, revealed the winners of its 2025 Community Awards at Belfast City Hall on Thursday, February 6.

    The event hosted by TV presenter Joe Mahon, brought together over 150 guests – including DAERA Minister Andrew Muir, local leaders, environmental advocates and volunteers – to honour the outstanding contributions of voluntary community groups across Northern Ireland working to improve the environment and promote civic pride.

    Sponsored by Power NI and supported by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA), nine local councils, and the Housing Executive, the awards serve as a vital platform for recognising the power of collective action in tackling community environmental challenges such as dog fouling, littering, biodiversity loss, transformation of neglected spaces, and environmental education.

    On the night, 12 awards were presented to celebrate the achievements of local community groups, including the Regional Champions Awards, which honoured volunteers from Live Here Love Here’s nine partner council areas.

    Dromore’s Higher Ground Community Gardening Group received Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council’s Regional Champions Award for its work in organising litter picks, revitalising neglected spaces, and planting around the area to enhance its appearance which in turn has fostered civic pride and created momentum for ongoing improvements.

    Tidy Banbridge was also recognised as runners-up in this category for its environmental efforts, which include litter picks and forming community partnerships, with a focus on supporting local youth groups and revitalising neglected flower patches.

    Lord Mayor of ABC Borough, Cllr Sarah Duffy explained how the volunteers in Dromore and Banbridge are leading by example. She said, “I would like to congratulate Dromore’s Higher Ground Community Gardening Group for their Regional Champions Award and also congratulate Tidy Banbridge who were runners-up. As well as the practical improvements they are making, these volunteers are inspiring more people to take care of the environment and developing a sense of pride in their communities, which is great to see.”

    Lynda Surgenor, Live Here Love Here Manager, said, “The Community Awards resonate because they celebrate the unsung heroes in our communities who are driving real environmental change through volunteer work. This year, the theme ‘Community Connections’ made it even more special as we honoured groups that demonstrate the power of collective action. Whether it’s transforming vacant land into thriving green spaces or mobilising locals to restore and protect local waterways, these groups are proving that no action is too small to make a difference. We’re reminded that, together, we can build a cleaner, greener, and more connected Northern Ireland.”

    She added, “We also want to thank DAERA, Power NI, the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful, and our nine council partners for their continued support, which ensures the ongoing success of Live Here Love Here.”

    For more information on the Live Here Love Here campaign and the Community Awards, visit liveherelovehere.org.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Further work planned on Lydney Harbour in Gloucestershire

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    The Environment Agency is continuing to carry out improvement works to Lydney Harbour to give the historic site a sustainable and prosperous future. 

    Aerial view of Lydney Harbour

    Most recently, the improvement works have included the refurbishment of the outer sea gates and desilting works which enable the safe passage of boats in the harbour.

    The next stage of the project focuses on the piers, which were closed due to safety concerns. The Environment Agency plans to replace the current temporary green mesh fencing with new pedestrian fencing, similar to that what has been installed elsewhere on the site. This will allow improved access to more of the piers. Work to repair the site surfacing and restore harbour fixtures to improve access for Lydney Yacht Club will also take place.

    The Environment Agency will be consulting the Forest of Dean Council and Historic England to agree the design and obtain the required permissions before works take place. The exact positioning of the fencing will be determined once it has obtained Scheduled Monument Consent.  Construction is expected to start in Spring 2026.

    In the coming months, the Environment Agency will also install additional pontoons to improve access for boat owners in the inner harbour. It will also introduce new signage to keep the public informed and undertake repair works on one of the bridges.

    The Environment Agency met the Harbour’s Community Leaders’ Group on 27 January to provide an update and to discuss the forthcoming work. 

    Martin Quine, Place Manager for Gloucestershire, from the Environment Agency, said: 

    I’d like to thank the Community Leaders’ Group and the public for their patience and continuing interest in the future of Lydney Harbour.   

    We fully appreciate how important Lydney Harbour is to all those who use and visit it.  

    Our main objective remains to establish a facility that not only meets the existing health and safety standards but also brings a sustainable and prosperous future.  

    We have been working closely with Historic England throughout the whole process and will continue to do so.   

    A dedicated email inbox has also been set up for any questions the public might have. The address is Lydney-harbour@environment-agency.gov.uk.

    Additional information

    The Environment Agency is the landowner and harbour authority of Lydney Harbour and has a duty of care to protect the public from harm.

    Updates to this page

    Published 10 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The government has approved a mechanism for issuing treasury infrastructure loans until 2030

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

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

    The decision was made on the instructions of the President.

    Document

    Resolution of January 25, 2025 No. 48

    Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin signed a resolution approving the rules for providing treasury loans for the implementation of infrastructure projects until 2030. Regions will be able to receive them for a period of up to 15 years at 3% per annum.

    Loans will be provided on a priority basis for infrastructure projects in the housing and utilities sector, as well as for the purchase of public transport, the creation of transport, engineering, energy and tourism infrastructure facilities, infrastructure facilities of industrial parks and industrial technology parks, special economic zones, territories of advanced development, innovative scientific and technological centers and other purposes. The projects will be approved by the Presidium of the Government Commission for Regional Development.

    “We need to carefully select projects taking into account feedback from citizens,” Mikhail Mishustin emphasized atmeeting with deputy prime ministers on February 10.

    Treasury infrastructure loans will be provided within the framework of the new national project “Infrastructure for Life” and will be a continuation of infrastructure budget loans – the most capital-intensive instrument of the Government’s socio-economic initiative “Infrastructure Menu”.

    The President instructed the Government to ensure the provision of budget loans to regions in 2025–2030 for the implementation of infrastructure projects following the Address to the Federal Assembly in 2024.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Samaraneftegaz has replenished its oil reserves by 180%

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

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

    Samaraneftegaz (part of the Rosneft oil production complex) increased its industrial grade oil reserves by 19 million tons by the end of 2024, which made it possible to replenish oil production by 1.8 times.

    Such indicators were achieved due to the successful application of new engineering and technological solutions in geological exploration. At the fields developed for a long time, 12 new deposits were discovered with an increase in reserves in the categories АВ1С1 В2С2 in the amount of 2.3 million tons.

    In 2024, Samaraneftegaz geologists built five exploration wells, during testing of which industrial oil flows with flow rates of up to 80 m3/day were obtained.

    Work on reprocessing and reinterpretation of seismic exploration data was carried out at the Zimarny, Nikolsko-Spiridonovskiy, Festivalny, Novo-Krutyakovskiy and Teleginskiy license areas. Based on their results, a detailed geological model was obtained, which allows specifying the drilling points of exploration and appraisal wells, reducing geological risks when drilling deep wells in the study area.

    Currently, Samaraneftegaz is working on 132 fields. Their development is carried out using, among other things, horizontal and directional wells, which allow increasing flow rates and oil recovery factors.

    Replenishment of reserves and their consistent introduction into development is one of the key elements of Rosneft’s strategy. Samaraneftegaz is conducting targeted work to increase the mineral resource base. One of the areas is revaluation of reserves taking into account the introduction of new technologies, clarification of the geological structure of deposits, additional exploration of poorly studied areas and development of methods for commissioning new deposits.

    Samaraneftegaz participates in auctions for the right to use subsoil. The work done has allowed the company to increase its reserves by 119 million tons of oil over the past five years.

    Reference:

    JSC Samaraneftegaz, a subsidiary of NK Rosneft, carries out production activities in the Samara and Orenburg regions. Cumulative production since the beginning of development in 1936 exceeds 1.3 billion tons of oil and more than 87 billion m3 of gas.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft February 10, 2025

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: New strategy for Sweden’s global development cooperation on migration, returns and voluntary repatriation 2024–2028

    Source: Government of Sweden

    New strategy for Sweden’s global development cooperation on migration, returns and voluntary repatriation 2024–2028 – Government.se

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    International development cooperation strategies from Ministry for Foreign Affairs

    Published

    The strategy for Sweden’s global development cooperation on migration, returns and voluntary repatriation is an important part of the implementation of the Government’s new reform agenda for development assistance. The strategy is worth SEK 3 billion in total and applies for the years 2024–2028.

    Download:

    This strategy will help to counteract irregular migration and stimulate well-functioning returns that can contribute to sustainable growth and development in receiving countries, and effective action for voluntary repatriation. Development assistance will also contribute to effective measures to strengthen migrants’ and refugees’ enjoyment of their rights in partner countries, support host communities, and strengthen asylum and migration management in partner countries.

    Swedish development assistance can be made conditional, with the aim of ensuring that receiving countries follow principles of international law and cooperate with Sweden on matters concerning readmission of their nationals, including the removal of impediments to enforcement such as not issuing travel documents.

    The strategy will complement and reinforce other parts of Sweden’s work on migration and development assistance – globally, regionally and bilaterally. Particular emphasis will be placed on coherence with Sweden’s bilateral and regional strategies that include migration objectives within development cooperation, not least in countries that Sweden prioritises in terms of returns. Interventions guided by the strategy will be coordinated with relevant missions abroad and, where possible, contribute to overall Swedish development cooperation in priority countries. The approach can be incentive-based and promote good cooperation in the area of migration. In addition, the strategy will support migration-related interventions in accordance with the Government’s priorities in countries or situations where there is no applicable country or regional strategy.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: HSE Economists Describe the Portrait of a Russian Remote Worker and Platform Employee

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: State University Higher School of Economics – State University Higher School of Economics –

    In Russia, mostly married women aged 30–39 with higher education living in large cities work remotely, while platform employment is more typical for men of the same age with a wide range of qualifications from megacities. This is the conclusion reached by economists from the Higher School of Economics after analyzing digital forms of employment in the Russian labor market. The study was published in a preprint of the series “Problems of the labor market”.

    Modern technologies have changed the labor market, making remote and platform employment popular forms of work. Russia has not remained on the sidelines: remote work attracts women with higher education living in large cities, and platform employment is more typical for men working in the transport sector or in retail.

    Platform employment is work via online platforms where specialists find clients, communicate with them, and provide services or sell goods. This is how taxi drivers, couriers, psychologists, tutors, copywriters, and designers work.

    Remote employment is work that is performed outside of an office or other work premises provided by the employer. It can be organized with or without the use of digital technologies.

    Deputy Director Center for Labor Studies, National Research University Higher School of Economics Rostislav Kapelyushnikov and senior lecturer Department of Applied Economics Faculty of Economic Sciences, National Research University Higher School of Economics Daria Zinchenko conducted a study on the specifics of digital forms of employment in the Russian labor market. The study covers the period from 2020 to 2023.

    Scientists have found that in Russia, women work remotely, making up about 60% of the workforce, while men work remotely, making up 40%. According to the researchers, this is due to two circumstances. Firstly, there are traditionally more women among workers engaged in mental work (white collars), while physical work (blue collars), which is more often done by men, requires personal presence, which makes remote employment virtually impossible. Secondly, remote work allows you to devote more time and attention to family responsibilities, which traditionally fall on women.

    Among remote workers in Russia, employees aged 30–39 (36.5%) predominate; they live in cities and have higher education. Remote employment is most often used in the field of information technology, where every eighth person works online. Then come scientific and technical activities — 7%, finance and real estate transactions — 4%. This form of employment is even less common in administrative activities — about 2.5%. The outsider in this list is agriculture: there are practically no remote employees in this industry.

    In platform employment, as in remote employment, the largest group is workers aged 30 to 39. Most Russians who work in platform employment mode, like remote workers, live in large cities (82%); almost 40% have higher education. However, unlike remote work, platform employment is widely represented by blue-collar jobs with different qualification requirements, so it is more skewed towards the male audience (58%). If we talk about industries, platform employment is most often used in the field of transport and trade (about 20%), construction (about 10%) and manufacturing (slightly more than 7%). In sectors such as agriculture, mining, electricity and water supply, platform employment is almost never used.

    “Today, a significant portion of Russian workers have accumulated real experience working in these non-standard modes and are able to switch to them quickly and painlessly,” notes Daria Zinchenko, one of the authors of the study.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Scientists in Scotland develop new method to understand wildfires past and present Scientists in Scotland have developed a new method to understand the heat and intensity of fires that burned out millions of years ago, which could unlock our understanding of wildfires during past and present periods of climate change.

    Source: University of Aberdeen

    California WildfireScientists in Scotland have developed a new method to understand the heat and intensity of fires that burned out millions of years ago, which could unlock our understanding of wildfires during past and present periods of climate change.
    Scientists in Scotland have developed a new method to understand the heat and intensity of fires that burned out millions of years ago, which could unlock our understanding of wildfires during past and present periods of climate change.
    Developed by geoscientists at the university of Aberdeen – Dr Thomas Theurer, Dr Dmitri Mauquoy, Professor. David Muirhead, Dr Clemens von Scheffer, and Daniel Coathup – and fire engineers at the university of Edinburgh – Professor Rory Hadden, Dr Zakary Campbell-Lochrie, and Sergio Vargas Córdoba – the new technique to analyse charcoal can be applied to understand the behaviour of any wildfire, from the present day all the way back to the first evidence of wildfire 420 million years ago.
    They published their findings in the Nature journal Scientific Reports.
    The increase in wildfire activity is a major global concern, especially for vulnerable wetland ecosystems that play a key role in storing carbon and fighting climate change.
    Last month’s devastating wildfires in California, which destroyed or damaged more than 18,000 homes and structures, brought to global attention how the size of the areas affected by wildfires is growing, individual fires have increased in intensity and the fire season has extended.
    The recently published Forest Fires 2023 report, says this shows ‘the undeniable effects of climate change’.
    In addition to the devastation caused by fires which spread rapidly across forests and moorlands, so called ‘zombie fires’ also burn in peatland, smouldering deep in the soil, and can release 100 times the carbon that a wildfire does
    Wildfires have occurred throughout geological history, including during periods of extreme climate change.

    As charcoal can persist within rocks for hundreds of millions of years, this method can be applied to understand the behaviour of any wildfire, from the present day all the way back to the first evidence of wildfire 420 million years ag” Dr Thomas Theurer

    In creating a method to measure historical events, scientists applied state-of-the art analyses using a laser, called Raman spectroscopy, to charcoals created during experiments at the University of Edinburgh Rushbrook Fire Laboratory simulating wildfire.
    It is the first calculation of wildfire energy release measured from charcoal chemistry, the team say, that can be applied to complex, natural fuel mixes and wildfire reconstructions of any age.
    Dr Thomas Theurer, a research Fellow at the University of Aberdeen, said: “As geoscientists, we can study simultaneous changes in ancient plant communities, climate, and fire that are often preserved in rock, and begin to understand the drivers of intense fire activity in the past, and how this modifies ecosystems.
    “As charcoal can persist within rocks for hundreds of millions of years, this method can be applied to understand the behaviour of any wildfire, from the present day all the way back to the first evidence of wildfire 420 million years ago.”
    Dr Dmitri Mauquoy, Senior Lecturer in Geosciences at the University of Aberdeen added: “Current methods to estimate ancient fire temperatures, called ‘geothermometry’, study specific changes in charcoal chemistry that result from the temperatures experienced during a wildfire event. However, energy release and transfer in wildfires is a complex process that cannot be understood through temperature measurements alone. Therefore, these methods may not be as accurate or useful in understanding ancient fire behaviour as previously thought.
    “The method we have developed allows us to quantify the energy release from wildfires using charcoal remains – the first and only method of its kind that is non-destructive and universal to complex, natural mixes of vegetation as fuel.”
    Understanding modern wildfire activity and how it may change with escalating climate change is complicated by the modification of environments by humans throughout history – such as forestry, agriculture, and fire suppression.
    “By applying this new method, we are able to get insights into how past fire activity has changed with climate change, independent of human interference, in a way that allows comparison to modern wildfire activity,” said Professor Rory Hadden, Personal Chair of Fire Science at the University of Edinburgh.  
    “This allows us insights we can use to assess and contextualise predictions of future fire activity, and how they may impact global ecosystems and populations.“As charcoal is a commonplace by-product of fire, it is exciting to think how this method might be applied to other areas of study, such as archaeology, forensic fire investigations, and fire safety science more broadly.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Mummy’s micro morsel discovered in museum’s tiny treasure trove

    Source: City of Leeds

    A crumb of bread entombed thousands of years ago alongside an ancient Egyptian’s mummified remains has been discovered amongst an astonishing collection of microscopic treasures in Leeds.

    Believed to be up to 3,000 years old, records show the tiny morsel was originally unearthed in Thebes, the site of some of the most famous and spectacular archaeological finds of the last century.

    Collected and preserved by an unknown Victorian microscopist, it has since been stored as part of a collection of previously uncatalogued slides, which have only recently begun to be documented at the Leeds Discovery Centre.

    Stored in small, wooden trays, the collection is thousands strong and is being painstakingly reviewed as part of a volunteer project.

    And remarkably, the piece of bread is not the only astonishing miniature marvel found during the work.

    Another slide contains a mote of dust from the infamous Krakatoa volcanic eruption of 1883, one of the most destructive events of its kind in recorded history, which was so loud it was heard more than 1,900 miles away.

    The miniscule speck itself landed on the deck of a ship called the Arabella, which was sailing 1,000 miles to the west of the Indonesian island.

    Specimens of microscopic sea creatures found during one of history’s most renowned and influential scientific voyages are also among the amazing array of slides.

    The HMS Challenger left Sheerness on the north Kent coast in 1872, embarking on an unprecedented mission to circumnavigate the globe and comprehensively explore the deep seas for the first time.

    Returning three and a half years and 68,890 nautical miles later, the crew had gathered marine plants and animals, sea-floor deposits and rocks from the depths which completely changed scientific understanding of the oceans.

    Examples found in the Leeds collection today include small disc-like fossils called orbitolites, which were gathered 18 fathoms down off the coast of Fiji.

    Also part of the collection is a fully miniaturised late Victorian copy of The Times, with all 12,500 words shrunk down to a size where they can only be read with the aid of extreme magnification.

    The slides are now in the process of being carefully catalogued by volunteer Stephen Crabtree, who initially began working with the museum to study fossilised plants.

    His studies soon revealed a hoard of historical treasures, with slides created by noted Victorian microscopists including James Lomax, Walter Hemingway and James Spencer.

    Clare Brown, Leeds Museums and Galleries’ curator of natural sciences, who has supervised the slides project, said: “What began as a fairly routine cataloguing exercise has slowly uncovered a remarkable archive that includes of some of the most important moments in scientific history.

    “Discovering a morsel of ancient Egyptian bread was particularly surprising, and the fact we can connect the Leeds collection to bread baked thousands of years ago on a different continent is fascinating.

    “We don’t know exactly how or where many of these slides were collected, but we do know that each one of them was meticulously preserved for study and posterity by a diligent microscopist more than a century ago.

    “That in itself is evidence of how important they thought these specimens were and how much they wanted future generations to see and be inspired by them. We’re extremely grateful to them, and to Stephen for following in their footsteps and rediscovering their work all these years later.”

    Once the collection has been documented and photographed, the aim will be to add it to a national database so it can be viewed and accessed by academics, experts and the public.

    Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture, said: “Leeds has a truly world class museum collection and it speaks volumes about its quality and scale that we’re still making such amazing discoveries today.

    “Our museums play such an important part in preserving history and heritage so that visitors have the chance to learn, and engage with it for many years to come.”

    The Leeds Discovery Centre is open to the public for free, pre-booked visits. For more information, please visit:  https://museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk/leeds-discovery-centre

    ENDS

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Leeds Apprenticeship Recruitment Fair returns to first direct arena Leeds

    Source: City of Leeds

    The Leeds Apprenticeship Recruitment Fair takes place this week, showcasing a range of paid employment and educational opportunities from across Leeds and the wider region.

    Everyone is welcome at the free-to-attend event, organised by Leeds City Council, which is being held at the first direct arena Leeds, between 1-7pm on Wednesday, 12th February 2025.

    On the day, over 100 exhibitors will be providing information, advice, and live apprenticeship vacancies. 

    Visitors can find out about the different types of apprenticeships on offer, what they involve, and how they work, including higher and degree apprenticeships.   

    A wide range of sectors will be represented at the fair, including accounting, business and administration, catering and hospitality, construction, creative design, care services, digital, education, engineering, finance, hair and beauty, health, law, protective services and many more.

    Deputy leader and executive member for economy, transport and sustainable development, Councillor Jonathan Pryor, said: “Apprenticeships offer something for everyone, from hands-on learning to degree-level qualifications, providing a fantastic route into a wide range of careers. 

    “Over the years, this fair has aided the journey of thousands of people into highly skilled and rewarding jobs. As the fastest-growing city in England, we continue to attract more quality employers each year, which is reflected in the range of apprenticeship opportunities to be showcased at this year’s fair. 

    “I would recommend anyone considering an apprenticeship to attend and find out more about opportunities in Leeds.”

    Exhibitors who will be there on the day to showcase their apprenticeship opportunities include Springfield Training, Leeds Manufacturing Festival, Jet2, Appris, Bank of England, CML, Royal Navy, KPMG, The Coders Guild, JCT 600, plus many more.  

    The event is free to attend, and everyone is welcome. Tickets are available to book online in advance at: https://bit.ly/larf25

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Spaghetti Government

    Source: ACT Party

    The Haps

    The country turned 185 on Thursday, but not everyone wanted to celebrate and debate. David Seymour’s address is here. They turned their backs and took his microphone, but nobody actually tried to argue that division based on ancestry is better than liberal democracy.

    Spaghetti Government

    Just over a year ago the New Zealand Initiative, a think tank, released a short and brilliant report on Government in New Zealand. Cabinet Congestion: The Growth of a ministerial maze.

    The gist of the report is that our Government has far more Ministers, and far more portfolios, than similar-sized countries. For example the Government of Ireland has fifteen ministers with eighteen portfolios and eighteen departments.

    Once upon a time New Zealand was roughly like that. Cabinet had sixteen ministers who all attended the main Cabinet meeting. Each Minister had one or two departments they were responsible for, and that was also their portfolio. For example, if you were the Minister of Police, you were responsible for Police, Police was your portfolio, and you were the only Minister of Police.

    Then came the MMP and the Government required multiple parties. It meant the Bolger Government needed to share power, but wouldn’t. Instead, Ministerial power was diluted with a little water in the wine.

    National negotiated the position of ‘Treasurer’ for Winston Peters, because they couldn’t imagine giving up Finance. The idea of a Minister outside Cabinet was also born, meaning Ministers who don’t attend the main Cabinet meeting. Four of these new Ministers meant 20 in total.

    Not to be outdone, Helen Clark formed an even bigger Government three years later. Cabinet expanded to 20 Ministers, and Ministers outside cabinet doubled to eight. Then there were 28.

    Not much has changed since then, except for an eruption of portfolios and departments. We now have a Ministry for Pacific Peoples, and a Ministry for Ethnic Affairs. Then there are portfolios without a specific department, including Racing, Mental Health, Auckland, the South Island, to name a few of the 78 Portfolios that now exist.

    There are other complications. For example needing to pick nearly 30 Ministers from a Government majority of just over 60 MPs affects quality. It means nearly half of MPs are Ministers when their ‘side’ is in Government. There’s been more than a few in recent years who wouldn’t have got a job like being a Minister otherwise.

    Most Ministers have multiple portfolios, around three to four on average. They’ll be less effective at, say, improving foreign relations if they’re also responsible for local government (Nanaia Mahuta was terrible at both). They’ll be less effective because they can’t specialise, but also because a specialist is less likely to be appointed in the first place.

    On the other hand, many departments have multiple ministers. There are three in Education, but that’s nothing compared with the 18 that MBIE is responsible to. Who is in charge?

    As the Initiative report argues, confusion empowers the bureaucracy. They can face multiple Ministers who themselves have many other jobs, often in totally unrelated areas. This makes it extremely difficult to shrink Government, or get much done at all.

    Some will criticise ACT for creating the Minister for Regulation. The Party would respond that restricting how other people can use their property is the most important government power to restrain besides taxing and spending. The latter has the Minister of Finance and Treasury, but who restrains regulation?

    ACT is now at the centre of government for the first time, and sits at the table that’s been set over the last thirty years of MMP. If the Party was charged with setting the table, there would be fewer placemats.

    How would we do it again? Any future Government should stick to three rules when it’s being set up.

    1. Every Minister sits in Cabinet so they’re part of every discussion.
    2. Every Minister has a department, so there are no portfolios that don’t involve managing a department.
    3. No Department has more than one Minister, so every public servant knows who they’re accountable to.

    This would mean getting rid of about half the portfolios and eight Ministers. It would go a long way to improving government efficiency and allow the government to get a lot more done much faster with much less ‘resource.’

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: VATICAN – Pope Francis: Jesus puts encounter first in his mission

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Sunday, 9 February 2025

    Vatican Media

    Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) – “Jesus is not concerned with showing off to the crowds, with doing a job, with following a timetable in carrying out his mission. On the contrary, he always makes it his priority to encounter others, to relate to them, and to sympathize with the struggles and setbacks that often burden hearts and take away hope”.With these words, Pope Francis presided this morning in St. Peter’s Square over a solemn Eucharistic concelebration, which marked the conclusion of the Jubilee events dedicated to the Armed Forces and Police.The Pontiff did not read the full text of the homily: “Excuse me, I will now ask the Master [of Liturgical Celebrations] to continue reading due to my difficulty in breathing”, he said after reading the first part of the text and adding a few spontaneous words. Last Thursday, the Holy See Press Office announced in a statement that the Pope was suffering from bronchitis, which is why the weekend audiences were held at the Casa Santa Marta.Archbishop Diego Ravelli, Master of Pontifical Liturgical Celebrations, then continued reading the text. In his reflection, the Pope highlighted three key words, taken from the passage of the Gospel according to Luke proclaimed in the liturgy of the day, which tells of the call of the first Apostles: “he saw”, “he went aboard ” and “he sat down”. Christ – the papal homily stressed – “looks with compassion at the expressions of those men, sensing their discouragement and frustration after having worked all night and caught nothing, their hearts as empty as the nets they haul”. But Jesus “does not simply stand by and watch as things go wrong, as we often do, and then complain bitterly. Rather, taking the initiative, he approaches Simon, spends time with him at that difficult moment and chooses to board the boat of his life, which that night had seemed fraught with failure”.Jesus “boards the boat in order to proclaim the good news, to tell of the beauty of God even amid the struggles of life, and to reaffirm that hope endures even when all seems lost.Then the miracle happens: when the Lord gets into the boat of our lives to bring us the good news of God’s love that constantly accompanies and sustains us, then life begins anew, hope is reborn, enthusiasm revives, and we can once again cast our nets into the sea”.In his homily, read by Archbishop Ravelli, the Bishop of Rome also expressed his gratitude to “all the military” who daily carry out their service to protect security and justice: “We are grateful for what you do, at times at great personal risk”.At the end of the celebration, in the words pronounced before the Angelus, in front of the multitude of women and men in uniform gathered in St. Peter’s Square, Pope Francis renewed his appeal for peace, citing the conciliar constitution Gaudium et Spes: “This armed service is to be exercised only for legitimate defence, never to impose dominion over other nations, always observing the international conventions on matters of conflict, and before that, in sacred respect for life and creation”. The Pontiff also recalled the conflicts that continue to tear peoples and nations apart: “Let us pray for peace, in tormented Ukraine, in Palestine, in Israel and throughout the Middle East, in Myanmar, in Kivu, and in Sudan. Let arms be silent everywhere, and let the cry of the peoples, who are asking for peace, be heard!” (F. B.) (Agenzia Fides, 9/2/2025)
    Share:

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: SLC announces new Darlington apprenticeships during National Apprenticeship Week

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    SLC is recruiting 12 new Student Finance Officer apprentices in Darlington

    To mark National Apprenticeship Week (10-16 February), the Student Loans Company (SLC) has announced it is recruiting 12 new apprentices in Darlington.

    Applications for the Student Finance Officer (SFO) Apprenticeships are now open, and successful candidates will join the organisation’s Customer Operations team in July.

    SLC supports students across the UK to invest in their futures and unlock their potential by administering loans and grants to students in universities and colleges across the UK. The new SFO apprentices will be at the heart of this operation, supporting customers through their student finance journeys and helping to process around 1.5million applications each year.

    The 18-month programme is being delivered in conjunction with Darlington College and apprentices will work towards will work towards apprenticeship certificates in L3 Business Administrator.

    Jackie Currie, Executive Director of Customer Operations at SLC said: “It’s fantastic to be launching our latest apprentice search during National Apprenticeship Week. The theme for the week is ‘Skills for Life’ and I’m proud of the role that SLC plays in developing the talent of the future, through our apprenticeship programmes.  

    “I’m looking forward to welcoming our new apprentices to the Customer Operations Team this summer and would urge people across the North East to apply. It’s a fantastic opportunity to work and gain experience within a large public sector organisation and achieve a recognised qualification at the same time.”

    SLC currently has 29 apprentices working across all areas of the organisation, with many former apprentices continuing to progress their careers with SLC after completing their qualification.

    Thomas Goodliffe (21) joined SLC as an SFO Apprentice in 2023. He completed his Level 3 Business Administration qualification with distinction and was named Darlington College’s Apprentice of the Year award in 2024. He now has a permanent SFO position.

    He said: “I would strongly recommend SLC’s apprenticeship programme, particularly if you are just starting out and want to work and study at the same time. I received fantastic support from SLC and Darlington College, which helped me to make the most of my experience.

    “The skills that I have gained, both at work and through my studies, have given me a great start to my career and there are so many opportunities at SLC which will allow me to keep learning and developing. I’m already planning my next career steps and feel excited about what the future holds.”

    For more information and to apply, please visit https://www.civil-service-careers.gov.uk/student-loans-company-hub/.

    Updates to this page

    Published 10 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: #iubilaeum2025 – Holy Mass on the occasion of the Jubilee of the Armed Forces, Police and Security Forces

    Source: The Holy See

    #iubilaeum2025 – Holy Mass on the occasion of the Jubilee of the Armed Forces, Police and Security Forces, 10.02.2025
    At 10.30 this morning, Fifth Sunday of Ordinary Time, on the occasion of the Jubilee of the Armed Forces, Police and Security Forces, the Holy Father presided over Holy Mass in Saint Peter’s Square.
    The following is the homily begun by Pope Francis and then read by Archbishop Diego Ravelli, master of Pontifical Liturgical Celebrations:

    Homily of the Holy Father
    Jesus’ actions at the Lake of Gennesaret are described by the Evangelist with three verbs: he saw, he went aboard and he sat down. Jesus saw, Jesus went aboard and Jesus sat down. Jesus is not concerned with showing off to the crowds, with doing a job, with following a timetable in carrying out his mission. On the contrary, he always makes it his priority to encounter others, to relate to them, and to sympathize with the struggles and setbacks that often burden hearts and take away hope.
    That is why Jesus, on that day, saw, went aboard and sat down.
    First, Jesus saw. He has a discerning gaze that, even amid the great crowd, makes him able to spot two boats approaching the shore and to see the disappointment on the faces of those fishermen, now washing their empty nets after a night of fruitless labour. Jesus looks with compassion at those men. Let us never forget this: the compassion of God. God’s three attitudes are closeness, compassion and tenderness. Let us not forget: God is near, God is tender and God is always compassionate. Jesus looks with compassion at the expressions of those men, sensing their discouragement and frustration after having worked all night and caught nothing, their hearts as empty as the nets they haul.
    Excuse me, I will now ask the Master [of Liturgical Celebrations] to continue reading due to my difficulty in breathing.
    Seeing their discouragement, Jesus went aboard. He asks Simon to put out a little way from the shore and he climbs aboard the boat. In this way, he enters into Simon’s life and shares in his sense of disappointment and futility. This is significant: Jesus does not simply stand by and watch as things go wrong, as we often do, and then complain bitterly. Rather, taking the initiative, he approaches Simon, spends time with him at that difficult moment and chooses to board the boat of his life, which that night had seemed fraught with failure.
    Then, once aboard, Jesus sat down. In the Gospels, this is typical of a master, of one who teaches others. Indeed, the Gospel states that Jesus sat down and taught. Glimpsing in those fishers’ eyes and hearts the frustration of a night of fruitless toil, Jesus boards the boat in order to proclaim the good news, to bring light to the dark night of disappointment, to tell of the beauty of God even amid the struggles of life, and to reaffirm that hope endures even when all seems lost.
    Then the miracle happens: when the Lord gets into the boat of our lives to bring us the good news of God’s love that constantly accompanies and sustains us, then life begins anew, hope is reborn, enthusiasm revives, and we can once again cast our nets into the sea.
    Brothers and sisters, this message of hope accompanies us today as we celebrate the Jubilee of the Armed Forces, Police and Security Personnel. I thank all of you for your service, and I greet all the Authorities present, the military associations and academies, and the military Ordinaries and chaplains. All of you have been entrusted with a lofty mission that embraces numerous aspects of social and political life: defending our nations, maintaining security, upholding legality and justice. You are present in penitentiaries and at the forefront of the fight against crime and the various forms of violence that threaten to disrupt the life of society. I think too of all those engaged in relief work in the wake of natural disasters, the safeguarding of the environment, rescue efforts at sea, the protection of the vulnerable and the promotion of peace.
    The Lord also asks you to do as he does: to see, to go aboard and to sit down. To see, because you are called to keep your eyes ever open, alert to threats to the common good, to dangers menacing the lives of your fellow citizens, and to environmental, social and political risks to which we are exposed. To go aboard, because your uniforms, the discipline that has shaped you, the courage that is your hallmark, the oath you have taken — all these are things that remind you of the importance not only of seeing evil in order to report it, but also of boarding the storm-tossed boat and working to ensure that it does not run aground. For that too is part of your mission in the service of the good, freedom, and justice. Then, finally, to sit down, because your presence in our cities and neighbourhoods to uphold law and order, and your taking the part of the defenceless, can serve as a lesson for all of us. They teach us that goodness can prevail over everything. They teach us that justice, fairness and civic responsibility remain as necessary nowadays as ever. They teach us that we can create a more human, just and fraternal world, despite the opposing forces of evil.
    In carrying out your work, which embraces your whole life, you are accompanied by your chaplains, an important priestly presence in your midst. Their job is not — as has at times unfortunately happened in history — to bless perverse acts of war. No. They are in your midst as the presence of Christ, who desires to walk at your side, to offer you a listening and sympathetic ear, to encourage you to set out ever anew and to support you in your daily service. As a source of moral and spiritual support, they accompany you at every step and help you to carry out your mission in the light of the Gospel and in the pursuit of the common good.
    Dear brothers and sisters, we are grateful for what you do, at times at great personal risk. Thank you because by boarding our storm-tossed boats, you offer us protection and encourage us to stay our course. At the same time, I would encourage you never to lose sight of the purpose of your service and all your activity, which is to promote life, to save lives, to be a constant defender of life. And I ask you, please, to be vigilant. Be vigilant against the temptation to cultivate a warlike spirit. Be vigilant not to be taken in by the illusion of power and the roar of arms. Be vigilant lest you be poisoned by propaganda that instils hatred, divides the world into friends to be defended and foes to fight. Instead, be courageous witnesses of the love of God our Father, who wants us all to be brothers and sisters. Together, then, let us set out to be artisans of a new era of peace, justice and fraternity.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI: WOOFi launches exclusive MNT token rewards for high-yield vaults on Mantle Network

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    KINGSTOWN, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Feb. 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — WOOFi, a leading decentralized exchange protocol in the blockchain ecosystem, is launching a four-week campaign on February 10th, incentivizing its vaults for CMETH, METH, and USDT on the Mantle network with bonus MNT tokens. In a rare move within the DeFi space, WOOFi vaults will offer the highest yields for these single-sided assets, giving users an easy, passive way to earn rewards without any management fees.

    With only a handful of decentralized exchanges offering MNT incentives, this limited-time campaign presents an exclusive opportunity for users to maximize their passive income. Participants will also be able to win additional MNT tokens through raffles, AMAs, and WOOFi Booster quests throughout the campaign period.

    “This campaign exemplifies our commitment to delivering the highest returns for our users on the Mantle network,” said Ben Yorke, VP of Ecosystem at WOO. “By offering fee-free, single-sided vaults with passive earning potential, we’re making it easier than ever for users to increase their holdings while supporting the growth of the Mantle ecosystem.”

    Users can get involved with no upfront costs and begin earning passively by staking CMETH, METH, or USDT in WOOFi’s incentivized vaults.

    Don’t miss out – join today and start earning bonus MNT tokens!

    Contact: media@woo.network

    About WOOFi
    WOOFi is a leading DEX, delivering over $70 billion in cumulative trading volume and supporting 11 blockchains. Offering a suite of products including earn vaults, simple swaps, cross-chain swaps, and perpetual futures, WOOFi is committed to providing seamless and rewarding DeFi experiences for its users. The platform’s native token, WOO, allows users to stake and share in 80% of all protocol fees, reinforcing a vibrant, community-driven ecosystem.

    Disclaimer:

    The content above is neither a recommendation for investment and trading strategies nor does it constitute an investment offer, solicitation, or recommendation of any product or service. The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, legal, or professional advice of any kind.

    Cryptocurrencies involve significant risk and are NOT suitable for the majority of investors. The value of digital currencies can be extremely volatile, and you should carefully consider your investment objectives, level of experience, and risk appetite before participating in any staking or investment activities. We strongly recommend that you seek independent advice from a qualified professional before making any investment or financial decisions related to cryptocurrencies. We shall in NO case be liable for any loss or damage arising directly or indirectly from the use of or reliance on the information contained in this article.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: NFG SA Secures Strategic Institutional Investment From Private Equity Firm, NMS Capital Group

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LOS ANGELES and NEW YORK, Feb. 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NFG SA (“NFG”), a Swiss private investment firm, today announced it has entered into a binding agreement with Beverly Hills-based NMS Capital Group (“NMS Capital”) for a capital investment aimed at strengthening NFG’s balance sheet and liquidity.

    NFG, with offices in Geneva, London and Los Angeles, is a global investment firm specializing in insurance and reinsurance, financial services, asset management, energy, and real estate. The firm operates extensively across Europe, the USA, the Caribbean, Africa, and the Asia Pacific region.

    NMS Capital, a family office-backed private equity and venture capital firm based in Beverly Hills, California, was established in 2010 as the dedicated investment vehicle for the Saliba Family Office. Since its inception, NMS Capital has expanded its investment portfolio and evolved into a leading private equity firm. It has consistently ranked among the top firms in Los Angeles, most recently placing #17 on the Los Angeles Business Journal’s 2024 list.

    NMS Capital’s latest investment in NFG builds on a series of prior investments in NFG affiliates, which began in 2021. While specific terms of the new investment remain undisclosed, both parties confirm that the additional capital investment imputes a valuation of NFG at approximately $2.5 billion. The transaction is expected to close before the end of first quarter of 2025, subject to customary board and committee approvals and procedures.

    Keith D. Beekmeyer, Chairman and CEO of NFG, remarked “With this new investment capital from NMS and the Saliba family, NFG has solidified its balance sheet strength, thereby enhancing our capacity to execute strategic objectives and drive long term growth.”

    Trevor M. Saliba, NMS Capital Group Chairman and CEO commented “Over the past three years, as we worked closely with Keith and Andy to refine NMS Capital’s investment strategy – focusing on insurance, energy, infrastructure and real estate – it became evident that channeling our investment into a strategic platform company like NFG was the optimal course of action to strengthen our position in the insurance sector.”

    Saliba further added “The NFG business model has proven to be a “go to” solution for investment capital in the insurance, specialty insurance, and reinsurance sector, achieving stratospheric growth over the past two to three years. This momentum remains strong, as reflected in NFG’s recent and current targeted closed investments and acquisitions, which are projected to significantly enhance NFG’s top-line revenues for 2025 and 2026.”

    About NFG SA
    NFG SA is a global private investment firm specializing in private equity and structured finance investments in companies across the insurance, financial services, energy, infrastructure, and real estate sectors. NFG focuses on transformative business combinations within North America, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, establishing a strategic international presence. NFG was originally founded by Keith Beekmeyer and Andy Bye in 2017, emerging from the insurance industry to address the financing needs of underbanked companies. The firm quickly expanded its capabilities through key acquisitions, including a dedicated reinsurance company, asset manager and a Lloyd’s insurance brokerage, enhancing its position within the sector. For more information, please visit www.nfgsa.com.

    About NMS Capital Group
    NMS Capital Group was established in 2010 as the dedicated investment vehicle for the Saliba Family Office, which was formed for the benefit of certain decadents of the late billionaire Naseeb M. Saliba whose businesses have generated billions of dollars in revenue since 1941 within the construction, engineering and infrastructure sectors cementing a family legacy in the construction industry dating back to the 1890s. Since its inception, NMS Capital Group has evolved into a global private investment firm, specializing in private equity, venture capital, and structured financing investments having closed transactions in businesses across multiple asset classes ranging from business and financial services, real estate, energy, infrastructure, manufacturing, and technology. In 2024 it ranked number seventeen on the list of the Top Private Equity Firms by the Los Angeles Business Journal. For more information, please visit www.nmscapital.com.

    NFG Media Contact
    Jessica Starman
    media@elev8newmedia.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: JLT Mobile Computers wins major order worth SEK 22M to leading American company in the food production industry

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Växjö, Sweden, January 10 2025 * * * JLT Mobile Computers, a leading supplier of rugged computers for demanding environments, today announces that its American subsidiary has won an order for a leading food producer in the US. The order includes JLT’s logistics computers JLT1214N at a total value of SEK 22M, plus 1-year service level agreements. The units are scheduled for delivery during the first half of this year.

    The company has been a JLT customer for many years. The reliability, dependability and performance of the JLT1214N computers have been consistently demonstrated over long periods of time. Their renewed choice of JLT for their rugged computer solution is a testament to their trust in the high-quality products and service from JLT.

    To learn more about JLT Mobile Computers and the company’s products, services and solutions, visit jltmobile.com. Additional financial information is available online on JLT’s investor pages.

    This information is information that JLT Mobile Computers AB (pub) is obliged to make public pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation and the Securities Markets Act. The information was submitted for publication, through the agency of the contact persons set out below at 09:30 pm CET on Monday, January 10, 2025.

    About JLT Mobile Computers

    JLT Mobile Computers is a leading supplier of rugged mobile computing devices and solutions for demanding environments. 30 years of development and manufacturing experience have enabled JLT to set the standard in rugged computing, combining outstanding product quality with expert service, support and solutions to ensure trouble-free business operations for customers in warehousing, transportation, manufacturing, mining, ports and agriculture. JLT operates globally from offices in Sweden, France, and the US, complemented by an extensive network of sales partners in local markets. The company was founded in 1994, and the share has been listed on the Nasdaq First North Growth Market stock exchange since 2002 under the symbol JLT. Eminova Fondkommission AB acts as Certified Adviser. Learn more at jltmobile.com.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/INDIA – Resignation and appointment of bishop of Jalpaiguri

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Saturday, 8 February 2025

    Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) – The Holy Father has accepted the resignation from the pastoral care of the diocese of Jalpaiguri, India, presented by Bishop Clement Tirkey.The Holy Father has appointed the Reverend Fabian Toppo, of the clergy of the same diocese, until now professor and spiritual director of the Morning Star Regional Seminary and College in Calcutta, as bishop of the diocese of Jalpaiguri, India.The Reverend Fabian Toppo was born on 21 December 1960 in Darupisa in the diocse of Jashpur, Chhattisgarh. He studied philosophy at the Papal Seminary in Pune, and theology at the Pontifical Urbaniana University in Rome, and was awarded a master’s degree in English from the University of North Bengal and a doctorate in biblical theology at the Pontifical Urbaniana University of Rome, as well as a diploma in administrative canon law.He was ordained a priest on 3 December 1994 for the diocese of Jalpaiguri.Since ordination, he has held the following roles: director of the Candidates’ House and for Ecumenism and Interreligious Dialogue in Jalpaiguri (1994-1998), parish priest of Shanti Rani in Mongradagni (1998-2001), and professor (2002-2007) and administrator (2020-2021) of the Morning Star Regional Seminary and College in Calcutta.Since 2016 he has served as professor of biblical theology and spiritual director of the Morning Star Regional Seminary and College in Calcutta. (EG) (Agenzia Fides, 8/2/2025)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/INDIA – Appointment of coadjutor bishop of Neyyattinkara

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Saturday, 8 February 2025

    Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) – The Holy Father has appointed the Reverend Selvarajan Dasan, of the clergy of Neyyattinkara, India, until now judicial vicar and parish priest of Saint Francis Xavier in Thirupuram, as coadjutor bishop of the same diocese of Neyyattinkara, India.Msgr. Selvarajan Dasan was born on 27 January 1962 in Valiyavila, diocese of Neyyattinkara. He studied philosophy and theology at Saint Joseph’s Pontifical Seminary in Alwaye and was awarded a licentiate and doctorate in canon law from the Université Catholique de Louvain.He was ordained a priest on 23 December 1987 for the metropolitan archdiocese of Trivandrum of the Latins.After priestly ordination, he held the offices of parish priest of Saint Albert in Muthiyavila (1988-1994), director of catechesis of the metropolitan archdiocese of Trivandrum of the Latins (1991-1995), parish priest of Saint Jude in Chinnathurai (1994-1995), parish priest of Saint Theresa in Manikkapuram (1995), defender of the bond of the Court of Trivandrum and pastoral director (2001-2003), parish priest of Saint Paul in Maranelloor and director of schools (2001-2008), defender of the bond in the Court of Neyyattinkara (2001-2011), member of the College of Consultors and the diocesan Council for Economic Affairs (since 2007), chancellor and parish priest of Immaculate Conception Cathedral (2008-2014), parish priest of Sacred Heart and director of the Logos Pastoral Centre (2014-2019).Since 2011 he has served as judicial vicar of Neyyattinkara and, since 2019, parish priest of Saint Francis Xavier in Thirupuram. (EG) (Agenzia Fides, 8/2/2025)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Portsmouth’s social work degree apprentices fulfil lifelong dream to support families

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    A duo of degree apprentices in children’s social care at Portsmouth City Council are fulfilling lifelong ambitions to support families in their community.

    Victoria Nash, a family support worker and Sonja Renfrew, a newly qualified social worker have shared their stories during National Apprenticeship Week 2025.

    National Apprenticeship Week (10 – 16 February 2025) is a week-long celebration that brings together businesses and apprentices across the country to shine a light on the positive impact that apprenticeships make to individuals and organisations.

    Councillor Steve Pitt, Leader of Portsmouth City Council said:

    “Portsmouth is fortunate to have a dedicated and loyal workforce of social care practitioners who support families every day. Apprenticeships enable colleagues to upskill within children’s social care to become social workers.

    “This helps us address some of the challenges around social work recruitment. Portsmouth is not immune to these challenges and is taking steps to strengthen its teams with employment programmes that develop staff internally who may wish to progress in their careers.”

    For those who already work in children’s social care, practitioners without a degree have the option to undertake a social work apprenticeship.

    Sonja began her career in London before moving to Portsmouth to support a local charity. She joined the council in 2017 as a family mentor progressing to become an education and early help worker. Sonja said:

    “I moved to Portsmouth and worked with a local charity called the EC Roberts Centre. This experience inspired me to consider the apprenticeship route as the best fit for me. It is a continuation of my work with the most vulnerable members of our society.

    “A standout moment for me was when I was at university on my apprenticeship during my third year. I volunteered to play the social worker being cross examined for a court skills session. The solicitor cross examined me and didn’t hold back. However, I remained calm, collected, and even managed to correct him at one point!

    “I got some amazing feedback from the university staff involved as well as my fellow degree apprentices. Certainly, a memorable moment!”

    Sonja completed her degree apprenticeship and has started her first year in employment as a newly qualified social worker this year.

    By providing accessible, work-based routes into social work for existing staff members, apprenticeships help expand the talent pipeline while equipping future social workers with vital skills and experience.

    Victoria started a social work diploma at university when she was 19 years old but did not complete the qualification as she felt she lacked life experience. As a family support officer working with families up to tier three, Victoria wanted to revisit a social work qualification. Victoria said:

    “I have worked for Portsmouth City Council for many years in different roles that support families. I wanted to explore my options that would allow me to work on tier four assessments. This required a formal social work qualification.

    “The apprenticeship was the best route for me. I have had to carefully balance my work, life and family commitments but I have loved every moment.

    “During my training, I have found the cohort of students I work with to be very supportive, as well as my university lecturers. It has also been insightful to link my current practice to the theory.

    “If you work for an internal service and want to progress by doing an apprenticeship, take the leap. I haven’t looked back since!”

    Social work degree apprenticeships aren’t advertised externally at Portsmouth City Council. However, it remains a valid training route for existing staff wanting to become social workers.

    External options including the Assessed and Supported Year in Employment (ASYE) programme and Step Up to Social Work scheme are available for those who have compatible level six qualifications (degree or equivalent). Each programme has its own entry criteria.

    For more information on social work degree apprenticeships, visit www.strongerfutures.co.uk/national-apprenticeship-week

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: LEAP 2025 Opens with Announcement of Record-breaking US$14.9 Billion Investment in Artificial Intelligence

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • World’s premier tech accelerator event smashes own record, revealing investment deals and infrastructure partnerships by domestic and international heavyweights

    RIYADH, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Feb. 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — LEAP 2025, Saudi Arabia’s award-winning global tech event, announced a record-breaking US$14.9 billion in new Artificial Intelligence (AI) investments that further cement the Kingdom’s status as a world-leading AI hub.

    Revealed on the opening day of this year’s four-day event, which is being held at the Riyadh International Exhibition and Convention Centre in Malham, the new announcements increase the total amount of technology-related infrastructure investments in Saudi Arabia to more than US$42.4bn since LEAP debuted in 2022.

    The new investments in the Kingdom included an announcement between Groq and Aramco Digital confirming a US$1.5bn plan to expand AI-powered inference infrastructure and cloud computing; ALAT and Lenovo committing US$2bn to establish an advanced manufacturing and technology centre integrating AI and robotics; Google introducing new AI-driven digital infrastructure and the launch of a powerful computing cluster to meet regional and global demand; Qualcomm confirming the availability of its ALLAM language model on Qualcomm AI Cloud; and Alibaba Cloud launching the AI Enablement Programme comprising collaborations with Tuwaiq Academy and STC Academy to train national talent.

    Other announcements included Databricks investing US$300 million in integrated PaaS (Platform as a Service) solutions to empower application developers with cutting-edge AI tools; SambaNova committing US$140m to build advanced AI infrastructure; Global private equity firm KKR, in partnership with Gulf Data Hub, revealing a strategic investment in the development of data centres with a total capacity of up to 300 megawatts; Saudi Arabia’s Salesforce investing US$500m to develop Hyperforce and enhance cloud capabilities for regional customers; and Tencent Cloud allocating US$150m to establish the Middle East’s first AI-powered cloud region.

    Delivering a keynote address to formally open LEAP 2025, His Excellency Eng Abdullah Alswaha, the Saudi Minister of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), insisted the new wave of investments brings one step closer His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s vision of the Kingdom’s tech sector becoming a global beacon for innovation and advancement.

    “LEAP 2025 is a defining moment because when the Kingdom works, the region works, and the whole world works,” said Alswaha. “LEAP has evolved from a movement to a multiplier effect – but now is our defining moment. Technology has catalysed Saudi Arabia as the biggest success story in youth and female empowerment in the 21st Century, and we are laser-focused on continuing that success story. The intelligence age is here and, in partnership with you, we are going to take that leap together.”

    Michael Champion, CEO of Tahaluf, which co-organises LEAP with the Saudi Ministry for Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) and the Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, Programming, and Drones (SAFCSP), added: “The massive volume of new investments announced on day one builds on the progress made at LEAP and across the Kingdom in previous years, reaffirming Saudi Arabia’s undisputed status as the primary digital accelerator in the Middle East and North Africa.”

    IBM’s Arvind Kirshna Predicts Quantum Computing Breakthrough now only “Three to Five Years Away”

    Eleven months after announcing IBM’s plans to invest US$250 million into a global software development centre in the Kingdom, Arvind Krishna, Chairman & CEO of IBM, joined HE Alswaha on the LEAP Main Stage to discuss his experiences identifying “early signals” to stay ahead of emerging industry trends.

    The trend that dominated the duo’s conversation was quantum computing – a type of computing that uses the principles of quantum mechanics to solve problems that would take classical computers millions of years to complete – with Kirishna adamant the technology is getting ever closer.

    “A breakthrough I think is only about three-to-five years in the future is quantum computing – I think we will see something amazing,” said Krishna. “We’re very excited to already be working on it with some partners in the Kingdom, but I believe quantum computing will open up areas that, for the Kingdom, will be very exciting. It will all be about materials, energy, oil and gas, possibly pharmaceuticals – all areas that are critical to the Kingdom and very much part of Vision 2030.”

    From Virtual Boxing to Futuristic Couture, Inaugural Tech Arena Opens Window to the Future

    LEAP’s newly-added Tech Arena kicked off with a series of future-focused, interactive sessions highlighting some of the latest technological advancements shaping the technology of tomorrow.
    With groundbreaking prototypes in robotics, AI, fashion tech, and mixed reality all being explored, live demonstrations were conducted by global tech influencers alongside BBC Click presenters Lara Lewington and Spencer Kelly.

    US-based Engine VR showcased Golden Gloves VR, a platform that uses virtual reality technology to provide an immersive, gamified boxing experience for fitness enthusiasts, professional athletes, and entertainment seekers.

    With professional boxer David Perez delivering a live demonstration to watching crowds, Aaron Sloan, the platform’s Founder, said: “ I used to work as a cardiac nurse, but the only two things I ever really cared about were boxing and technology. So, I quit my nursing job and opened up my own boxing gym; it burned down within a month. It made me realise that building a business in a brick-and-mortar facility was going to be really hard. It just so happened that, around this time, the Quest One headset came out. Not only was it powerful, it was also wireless, which is so crucial for our system to work,” said Sloan.

    “In order for us to get the traction we needed, we had to replicate as best we could what trainers and boxers were doing in the gym. After a number of different variations, we now have a platform that is being used by sporting bodies across the world, including the Olympics. The system also allows people of determination to take part, making the sport far more inclusive.”

    Elsewhere, TJ Rhodes, the Senior Research Scientist and Engineer on Adobe’s Project Primrose, talked audiences through the Middle East debut of its latest wearable technology. First premiered at Adobe Max in 2023, the Project Primrose dress uses non-emissive textiles and can change the way we merge fashion and technology.

    “It has so many use cases beyond the catwalk; it can be a canvas for new designs or even a low-power billboard that can flash text-based advertisements,” said Rhodes. “It is also a non-emissive material that can be cut to any shape and dynamically diffuses light. Most special effects can only be experienced on the big screen, but what Project Primrose allows us to do is transform it from the big screen to reality. Imagine if Elsa from Frozen was able to transform her dress to match her actions in a live performance. We’re still discovering the possibilities of what this technology can do.”

    More than 1,800 tech brands and 680 start-ups are exhibiting at LEAP 2025 this week, alongside a stellar lineup of 1,000-plus expert speakers across 15 stages, highlighting the tech that is shaping tomorrow.

    For more information on the event and ticket options, visit onegiantleap.com

    About LEAP:

    Saudi Arabia’s desire to shoot for something beyond the realms of the possible presents the ultimate backdrop for LEAP.

    LEAP showcases the Kingdom’s technology ambition on a global stage as it continues to grow as a hub connecting three continents. The figures speak from themselves as LEAP 2024 had an attendance of over 215,000, making it the most attended tech event in the world. LEAP features the inspiring tech of tomorrow across all major sectors including health, finance, energy, education, digital entertainment, transport, smart cities and more. The event is also led by a speaker faculty of globally celebrated technology innovators, focussing on the most innovative tech case studies from around the world.

    LEAP is not like any other tech event, from the ground up the community, stakeholders and project team are challenged every day to do something wildly creative and bold, something that reflects the seismic advances in tech adoption being seen in Saudi Arabia.

    About Tahaluf:

    Headquartered in Riyadh, Tahaluf brings together strategically important commercial communities from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the wider Gulf region, and from around the world to a portfolio of world-class exhibitions and digital platforms.

    Tahaluf is a joint venture partnership between Informa PLC, the world’s largest trade show organiser, the Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, Programming and Drones (SAFCSP), and Events Investment Fund (EIF). Sela, the Saudi-owned event production company renowned for its creation of spectacular event experiences, intends to join the joint venture in the near future.

    In 2024 Tahaluf was responsible for the award-winning tech events LEAP & DeepFest, as well as 24 Fintech, the Global Health Exhibition, Cityscape Global, Black Hat MEA and CPHI.

    For more information about Tahaluf, visit https://tahaluf.com

    Contact:
    pragati.m@actionprgroup.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5fa649e4-de08-4d36-ac05-cacaaa343ac7
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d0034895-f10e-4f41-af0e-31a59b2c65d3
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6a4c9a61-18b0-4288-9f32-90fe4ad7748e
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5351de8d-badd-4734-bf1a-4899d40bc9b4
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2ed8cddb-dc15-49e4-ae15-0514eb166f91

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: AI and satellites speed up planning approvals by tracking wild habitats across England

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    New records reveal the government is utilising AI and technology to enhance public services, including streamlining MOT inspections and speeding up planning with satellite habitat mapping.

    How AI is improving public services and new AI Playbook will drive public sector use.

    • New records reveal how government is using AI and tech to deliver for the public – including by streamlining MOT garage inspections and using satellite habitat mapping to speed up planning
    • Comes alongside practical tips to help public sector build tech to speed up decision making and transform services for working people – delivering the Plan for Change
    • Guidance shares top tips from development of GOV.UK Chat and other advanced tech on using safeguards to ensure the tech works in the public’s interest

    AI and satellite images are being used to predict how natural habitats are changing across the country, so more current data can be used to accelerate planning proposals and stop NIMBYism getting in the way of growth and the Plan for Change. 

    Satellite images and machine learning – a type of AI – are being used by Natural England to build a detailed map of “Living England”, showing the current extent of habitats across the country. Rather than the manual surveys of the past, changes to English habitats will now be tracked more efficiently and across the country – speeding up decisions around planning and land use while better protecting nature. 

    Details of the project are being released today alongside 13 other examples of how AI and algorithmic tools are used to speed up decision making and improve public services – spanning examples including how AI is being used to better predict the weather and keep standards high at MOT testing centres.

    A new AI Playbook, published today, gives public sector technical experts top tips and guiding principles on how to replicate this work and build AI to help their organisations fix services for citizens – ultimately delivering on the government’s ambition to transform public services with AI.

    Civil servants are guided on how to buy and manage the development of AI technology in their departments and encouraged to work with AI companies closely so the technology can be put to work more quickly. 

    Today’s announcement comes as world leaders gather for the AI Action Summit in Paris, and follow’s the publication of the UK’s AI Opportunities Action Plan, which has put the UK on course to revolutionise public services and become an AI superpower – already attracting over £14 billion in investment since launching just last month.  

    Technology Secretary Peter Kyle said: 

    Every corner of the public sector can be using technology to save money, speed things up, and crucially, improve public services for people across the UK, driving our Plan for Change forward. 

    The publication of our AI Playbook today comes with a call to arms for tech specialists across the public sector – use the guidance we are sharing to put AI to work in your organisations at whiplash speed, so we can repair our broken public services together.

    Natural England’s Chief Scientist, Professor Sallie Bailey said:

    Nature restoration, development and economic growth are not opposing forces – they can and must work together to create a sustainable future for both people and wildlife.

    Our Living England project is harnessing the power of AI to inform and support planning decisions far more efficiently. This means we can make the biggest impact for Nature recovery, while helping to deliver the new homes and infrastructure the country needs.

    The AI Playbook, published by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, outlines ten principles civil servants building AI should follow, making sure they: 

    • Have meaningful human control at the right stages, so any decisions recommended by technology can be monitored properly, and changed rapidly if needed. 

    • Choose the right tool for the right job and avoid using AI where more basic technology can fulfil the same task. 

    • Work with teams responsible for buying technology right from the start, to make sure agreements struck with private sector companies can be utilised to maximum potential in this rapidly evolving market. 

    The Playbook also insists that public servants working with AI do so openly and collaboratively, making sure the public know how technology is being used and allowing other public sector organisations to benefit from work that has already taken place.  

    Other records being released today detail how the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) uses AI to prioritise which of the 23,000 active MOT testing garages should receive an inspection next. 

    Producing a traffic light rating for every garage, the AI tool takes in data from MOT tests to spot anomalies and identify which garages should be checked first, so inspectors can confirm they are working to crucial safety standards. Previously, inspections were based only on the amount of time that had passed since the last check. 

    Today’s release follows the Technology Secretary publishing the blueprint for a modern digital government, setting out how his department will use AI and technology to help the public sector improve their services and target £45 billion in potential efficiency savings every year. This is as well as announcing a bundle of tools to be known as “Humphrey” and set to be made available to all civil servants soon.  

    Among other things, the tools will help civil servants assess responses to consultations, take minutes at meetings and analyse decades of debate from the Houses of Parliament. 

    Notes to editors

    Find the AI Playbook here.

    The full list of Algorithmic Transparency Records being published today is as follows. 

    Met Office (DSIT)

    Weather and climate forecasting: A combination of multiple different algorithmic tools used to produce weather forecasts.

    Natural England (Defra)

    Living England map: Habitat mapping for the whole of England using satellite imagery, targeted field survey and machine learning.

    DVSA (DfT)

    MOT Risk Rating: An algorithmic to identify potential non-compliance in MOT testing, and prioritise visits to MOT garages.

    Wilton Park

    Data Cleaning Tool: Enables compliance with The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) by identifying and automatically cleaning personal data from the Wilton Park customer database.

    OSCB (DBT)

    Interest Calculator: Assists small business owners to calculate the amount of interest due on an overdue invoice.

    National Highways (DfT)

    Highways webchat: provides customers with an additional communication channel to get immediate answers to their questions using publicly available information (such as traffic information).

    The search engine for GOV.UK. It enables users to search for information and services on GOV.UK by entering a search query to view results that are relevant to their query.

    NHS Business Services Authority (DHSC)

    Residency Checker for EHIC/GHIC/PRC: A process to support confirmation of UK residency for entitlement to healthcare in an European Economic Area (EEA) country or Switzerland.

    Department for Work and Pensions (DWP)

    Employment and Support Allowance Online Medical Matching: A tool which helps Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) officials process claims more quickly.

    Money and Pensions Service (MaPs)

    Budget Planner: A free online tool that helps users track and categorize their spending, provides a detailed breakdown of their finances, and offers personalized tips to improve their money management.

    Money and Pensions Service (MaPs)

    Redundancy Pay Calculator: Online tool designed to help individuals who have been or are at risk of being made redundant understand their legal rights, calculate their potential redundancy pay, assess their financial situation, and explore available benefits and support.

    Ministry of Justice (MoJ)

    The Effective Proposal Framework: Used by Probation Practitioners at pre-sentence stage and as part of pre-release planning to identify requirements, licence conditions and interventions for individuals based on their risk and need profile.

    Health Research Authority (DHSC)

    Proportionate Review Toolkit: A toolkit to help Research Ethics Committee applicants determine whether their project would be eligible for proportionate review.

    His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC)

    Logo Detection and Classification Toolkit: A tool to detect unauthorised uses of HMRC’s logo.

    DSIT media enquiries

    Email press@dsit.gov.uk

    Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 6pm 020 7215 300

    Updates to this page

    Published 10 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI China: Rules on dissemination of military info unveiled

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    China released a set of regulations that note the do’s and don’ts for disseminating military-related information on the internet.
    The regulations, jointly issued by 10 departments, including the Cyberspace Administration of China and the Political Work Department of the Central Military Commission, were published on Saturday and will take effect on March 1.
    The regulations consist of 30 articles and focus on setting guidelines for the dissemination of military-related information on the internet, the establishment of military-themed websites and platforms, and the management of online programs and accounts focusing on military content.
    They categorize military-related information into three types: one type is encouraged and supported for dissemination, while the other two types are prohibited to be disseminated online.
    The rules encourage providers and users of military information to “produce, reproduce, publish and disseminate” information that publicizes the decisions and deployments of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the CMC, as well as information that promotes the “glorious history and fine traditions and conduct” of the military.
    Information reflecting achievements in the modernization of national defense and the military, and the positive contributions of the Chinese military to world peace is also supported for widespread dissemination.
    In addition, information that promotes the legitimacy and justice of military operations, and the heroic and self-sacrificing deeds of the armed forces, is encouraged for dissemination.
    However, the regulations also specify which types of military-related information are prohibited from being disseminated.
    These include information that endangers national sovereignty, security and territorial integrity, or defames the absolute leadership of the CPC over the military and the CMC chairperson responsibility system.
    Information that distorts, defames or denies the history of the People’s Liberation Army, the deeds and spirit of heroes and martyrs, or that sows discord between the military and the government or the military and the people, is also prohibited.
    Furthermore, information that denies or attacks China’s defense policies and strategies, and misinterprets international military exchanges and cooperation is also targeted, according to the regulations, which also ban spreading information that misinterprets non-war military actions, such as the evacuation of Chinese nationals overseas, international peacekeeping and rescue operations, military exercises and disaster relief.
    The regulations also require military information providers and users to strictly safeguard classified matters related to national defense construction and the activities of the armed forces, and prohibit the dissemination of information containing military secrets, defense technology industry secrets, or unpublished information.
    This includes information about military deployments, troop movements, operations and training.
    It also includes information about the development, production, testing, transportation and deployment of weapons and equipment, their tactical and technical performance, and support capabilities.
    In addition, regarding emergencies involving the military, relevant departments and internet military information service providers should “release and repost authoritative information” and manage “illegal and harmful information” in accordance with the regulations.
    The Cyberspace Administration of China said in a news release on Saturday that the regulations are an important measure to promote the rule of law in cyberspace and have significant practical significance for addressing issues such as false military information and the leaking of military secrets on the internet.
    Defense Ministry spokesman Wu Qian noted in a news release on Saturday that the military and relevant local government departments will strengthen coordination and cooperation to jointly implement the regulations.
    He said that the regulations will standardize the online dissemination of military information from an institutional level, create a positive online environment related to the military, and provide “strong online public opinion support” for achieving the goals for the centenary of the PLA in 2027.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Job opportunities up for grabs in new year

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

    China is experiencing a surge in job fairs following the Spring Festival holiday, aimed at helping urban and rural workers and college graduates secure employment.

    On Wednesday, a large-scale recruitment event was held in the Zhengzhou Airport Economy Zone in Henan province. BYD, a leading Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer, announced plans to hire 20,000 workers in a single recruitment drive, drawing a massive crowd of applicants. BYD’s Zhengzhou base is offering various positions with salaries ranging from 5,000 to 9,000 yuan ($686 to $1,234) per month.

    “Our company is part of the manufacturing sector, and those who join us will gain exposure to automotive manufacturing equipment, processes and skill standards. We also hope to contribute to Henan’s development,” said a manager at Zhengzhou BYD Auto Co who requested anonymity.

    Wei Wei, head of the talent service center at the personnel department of the Party working committee in the Zhengzhou Airport Economy Zone, said: “This job fair not only ensures the resumption of work and production for enterprises, but also provides more opportunities for job seekers. It plays a role in boosting the local economy.”

    On Thursday, in Jingzhou, Hubei province, 150 companies offered nearly 5,000 positions at the first job fair after Spring Festival. The available jobs spanned various fields, including services and commerce.

    “I’m not planning to look for work elsewhere this year; I want to see if there are suitable jobs available locally,” said Yao, a job seeker who gave only his surname.

    After reviewing the job requirements and benefits from a local biotechnology company, he learned that the salary could exceed 5,000 yuan per month, which he said was “very attractive”.

    Jingzhou has organized over 200 job fairs, with an estimated 400 expected by March.

    Many migrant workers are considering returning to their hometowns for employment this year.

    On Wednesday, at a job fair in Hanchuan, Hubei, job seeker Li Xiaolin said: “I had moved to Guangdong province and was looking for a job as an electrician. However, I visited several companies at the fair and found promising opportunities here. If I find a suitable position, I might stay and work in Hanchuan.”

    On the first day of job fair activities in Hanchuan, approximately 8,600 people attended, with livestream viewers reaching 55,000.

    During Spring Festival, Jiangxi province also hosted numerous large-scale job fairs, both online and in person. One of them, held in Gao’an city, was a three-day fair aimed at assisting key groups such as college graduates and retired military personnel in finding employment or starting businesses.

    At the Gao’an fair, more than 100 companies offered over 6,000 job positions, and more than 1,200 people expressed interest in employment on-site. The Gao’an city employment and entrepreneurship service center said it will continue post-holiday employment support efforts, matching job seekers with companies and providing online and offline job services to guide local workers to opportunities and attract migrant workers to return to the city.

    MIL OSI China News –