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  • MIL-OSI Russia: IMF Executive Board Completes the Fourth Review Under the Extended Fund Facility with Sri Lanka

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    July 3, 2025

    • The IMF Executive Board completed the Fourth Review under the 48-month Extended Fund Facility with Sri Lanka, providing the country with immediate access to SDR 254 million (about US$350 million) to support Sri Lanka’s economic policies and reforms.
    • Performance under the program has been generally strong with some implementation risks being addressed. Prior actions on restoring cost-recovery electricity pricing for the rest of 2025 and operationalizing automatic electricity tariff adjustment were met. All quantitative targets for end-March 2025, except the stock of expenditure arrears, were met. All structural benchmarks due by end-May 2025 were either met or implemented with delay. 2025Q2 inflation fell below the lower outer band of the Monetary Policy Consultation Clause largely due to energy prices. Debt restructuring is nearly complete.
    • The economic outlook remains positive. However, global trade policy uncertainties pose significant risks to Sri Lanka’s macroeconomic and social stability. If these shocks materialize, the authorities will work closely with staff to assess the impact and formulate policy responses within the contours of the program.

    Washington, DC: On July 1, 2025, the Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) completed the Fourth review under the 48-month Extended Fund Facility (EFF) Arrangement, allowing the authorities to draw SDR254 million (about US$350 million). This brings the total IMF financial support disbursed so far to SDR1.27 billion (about US$1.74 billion).[1]

    The EFF arrangement for Sri Lanka was approved by the Executive Board on March 20, 2023 (see Press Release No. 23/79) in an amount of SDR 2.286 billion (395 percent of quota or about US$3 billion). The program supports Sri Lanka’s efforts to durably restore macroeconomic stability by (i) restoring fiscal and debt sustainability while protecting the vulnerable, (ii) safeguarding price and financial sector stability, (iii) rebuilding external buffers, (iv) strengthening governance and reducing corruption vulnerabilities, and (v) enhancing growth-oriented structural reforms.

    The Executive Board reviewed a report from the Managing Director on the inadvertent provision of inaccurate data by Sri Lanka on the ceiling of the central government’s stock of expenditure arrears. The under-reporting of the arrears stock identified through a detailed analysis of budget line appropriations gave rise to noncomplying purchases and a breach of Sri Lanka’s obligations under Article VIII, Section 5. The authorities have worked openly and closely with IMF staff to provide corrected data and have undertaken several corrective measures related to the clearing and reporting of arrears. They are also committed to improving reporting and data verification practices going forward in line with IMF technical assistance. Based on these actions, the Executive Board approved the authorities’ request for waivers of non-observance.

    The authorities have consented to the publication of the Staff Report prepared for this consultation.[2]

    Following the Executive Board’s discussion, Mr. Kenji Okamura, Deputy Managing Director and Acting Chair, issued the following statement:

    “Sri Lanka’s performance under the Fund-supported arrangement is generally strong with some implementation risks being addressed. Reforms are bearing fruit, with economic growth strengthening, inflation remaining low, reserves accumulating, and fiscal revenues improving. The debt restructuring process is nearing completion. The economic outlook is positive, but downside risks have increased. In case shocks materialize, the authorities should work closely with the Fund to assess the impact and formulate policy responses within the contours of the program. Steadfast program implementation will be crucial.

    “Sustained revenue mobilization is critical to restoring fiscal sustainability and creating fiscal space. Strengthening tax exemption frameworks, boosting tax compliance, and enhancing public financial management to ensure effective arrears management are important. Further improving the coverage and targeting of social support to the vulnerable is also necessary. A smoother execution of capital spending within the fiscal envelope would help foster medium-term growth. The restoration of cost-recovery electricity pricing and the operationalization of automatic electricity tariffs adjustment are commendable and should be maintained to contain fiscal risks.

    “The progress to advance the restructuring of Sri Lanka’s debt is noteworthy. Timely finalization of bilateral agreements with remaining official and commercial creditors is a priority.

    “Monetary policy should continue to prioritize price stability, supported by sustained commitment to eliminate monetary financing and safeguard central bank independence. Greater exchange rate flexibility and gradually phasing out administrative balance of payments measures remain critical to rebuild external buffers and economic resilience.

    “Resolving non-performing loans, strengthening governance and oversight of state-owned banks, and improving the insolvency and resolution frameworks are important to revive credit growth and support private sector development.

    “Structural reforms are crucial to unlock Sri Lanka’s potential. The government should continue to implement governance reforms and advance trade-facilitation reforms to boost export growth and diversification.”

    Following the Executive Board’s discussion, Mr. Kenji Okamura, Deputy Managing Director and Acting Chair, issued the following statement:

    “The Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) reviewed noncomplying purchases made by Sri Lanka under the 2023 Extended Arrangement under the Extended Fund Facility (“EFF”), as well as a breach of obligations under Article VIII, Section 5. The noncomplying purchases arose as a result of the provision of inaccurate information by the authorities on the stock of expenditure arrears at the first, second, and third reviews under the EFF.

    “The inaccuracies in information provided to the IMF were inadvertent and arose because of weaknesses in the timely reporting of arrears by line ministries to the Ministry of Finance, as well as a misunderstanding by the authorities of the definition of “arrears” under the Technical Memorandum of Understanding. 

    “The Executive Board positively considered the authorities’ corrective actions, the fact that arrears repayments will be accommodated within the existing fiscal envelope, and the authorities’ commitment to improving public financial management procedures in line with the new PFM law, to reduce the risk of accruing arrears or inaccurate reporting of information going forward. In view of the above, the Executive Board agreed to grant waivers for the nonobservances of the quantitative performance criterion that gave rise to the noncomplying purchases and decided not to require further action in connection with the breach of obligations under Article VIII, Section 5.”

    Sri Lanka: Selected Economic Indicators 2024-2030
                                                                  

     

    2024

    		  

    2025

    2026

    2027

    Est.

    Projections
               

    GDP and inflation (in percent)

    		            

    Real GDP

    5.0

    3.5

    3.1

    3.1

    Inflation (average) 1/

    1.2

    3.3

    5.2

    5.0

    Inflation (end-of-period) 1/

    -1.5

    8.9

    5.2

    5.0

    GDP Deflator growth

    3.8

    3.6

    5.3

    5.1

    Nominal GDP growth

    9.0

    7.1

    8.5

    8.4

     

    Savings and investment (in percent of GDP)

    		            

    National savings

    25.2

    21.8

    22.2

    22.9

      Government

    -3.2

    -2.0

    -0.8

    -0.1

      Private

    28.4

    23.8

    23.0

    23.0

    National investment

    27.0

    21.8

    22.1

    22.5

      Government

    5.0

    4.3

    4.5

    4.6

      Private

    21.9

    17.4

    17.6

    17.9

    Savings-Investment balance

    -1.8

    0.0

    0.1

    0.4

      Government

    -8.2

    -6.3

    -5.3

    -4.6

      Private

    6.4

    6.4

    5.4

    5.1

     

    Public finance (in percent of GDP)

    		            

    Revenue and grants

    13.7

    15.0

    15.2

    15.3

    Expenditure

    19.3

    20.5

    19.7

    19.2

    Primary balance

    2.2

    2.3

    2.3

    2.3

    Central government balance

    -5.6

    -5.4

    -4.5

    -3.9

    Central government gross financing needs

    21.9

    22.6

    19.6

    14.9

    Central government debt

    100.5

    105.1

    103.4

    100.2

    Public debt 2/

    105.2

    109.6

    107.4

    103.6

     

    Money and credit (percent change, end of period)

    Reserve money

    15.8

    6.5

    8.5

    8.4

    Broad money

    8.6

    6.5

    8.5

    8.4

    Domestic credit

    4.0

    4.5

    3.0

    3.8

    Credit to private sector

    10.7

    9.4

    9.2

    9.3

    Credit to private sector (adjusted for inflation)

    9.5

    6.1

    4.1

    4.3

    Credit to central government and public corporations

    -1.4

    0.0

    -3.3

    -2.5

     

    Balance of Payments (in millions of U.S. dollars)

    Exports

    12,772

    12,880

    13,490

    14,194

    Imports

    -18,828

    -21,363

    -22,447

    -23,578

    Current account balance

    1,746

    -48

    -77

    -439

    Current account balance (in percent of GDP)

    1.8

    0.0

    -0.1

    -0.4

    Current account balance net of interest (in percent of GDP)

    3.7

    2.1

    2.0

    1.7

    Export value growth (percent)

    7.2

    0.8

    4.7

    5.2

    Import value growth (percent)

    12.0

    13.5

    5.1

    5.0
               

    Gross official reserves (end of period)

    		            

    In millions of U.S. dollars

    6,122

    7,255

    9,273

    12,974

    In months of prospective imports of goods & services

    3.0

    3.3

    4.0

    5.4

    In percent of ARA composite metric

    50.5

    60.3

    75.5

    100.0

    Usable Gross official reserves (end of period) 3/

    		            

    In millions of U.S. dollars

    4,686

    7,255

    9,273

    12,974

    In months of prospective imports of goods & services

    2.3

    3.3

    4.0

    5.4

    In percent of ARA composite metric

    38.6

    60.3

    75.5

    100.0

    External debt (public and private)

    In billions of U.S. dollars

    53.9

    54.6

    56.3

    59.9

    As a percent of GDP

    54.4

    55.1

    58.6

    59.4

     

    Memorandum items:

    Nominal GDP (in billions of rupees)

    29,899

    32,036

    34,754

    37,664

    Exchange Rate (period average)

    302.0

    …

    …

    …

    Exchange Rate (end of period)

    293.0

    …

    …

    …

    Sources: Data provided by the Sri Lankan authorities; and IMF staff estimates.

    1/ Colombo CPI.

    2/ Comprising central government debt, publicly guaranteed debt, and CBSL external liabilities (i.e., Fund credit outstanding and international currency swap arrangements). The debt statistics currently assume the external debt restructuring to have been completed at end 2023.

    3/ Excluding PBOC swap ($1.4bn in 2022) which becomes usable once GIR rise above 3 months of previous year’s import cover.
                                     

    [1] SDR figures are converted at the market rate of U.S. dollar per SDR on the day of the Board approval.

    [2] Under the IMF’s Articles of Agreement, publication of documents that pertain to member countries is voluntary and requires the member consent. The staff report will be shortly published on the www.imf.org/srilanka page.

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Randa Elnagar

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/07/02/pr24235-sri-lanka-imf-executive-board-completes-the-fourth-review-under-the-eff

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: WFP and Samoa Lay Groundwork for Food System Improvements at the First Cost and Affordability of Diet Workshop

    Source: World Food Programme

    APIA, SAMOA – The Samoa Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries (MAF), in partnership with the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), co-hosted a national validation workshop to present and discuss findings from Samoa’s first Cost and Affordability Analysis of Diets.

    The workshop brought together representatives from government ministries, UN agencies, international and national non-governmental organisations, civil society, and the private sector to review and validate the findings of the diet cost analysis, and to discuss how the results can inform policies and programmes aimed at improving diet quality and affordability in response to the country’s high burden of non-communicable diseases. 

    “This workshop is a pivotal step in our collective journey to address one of the most pressing development challenges of our time – ensuring access to affordable, nutritious and healthy diets for all Samoans, especially our most vulnerable,” said Seumalo Afele Faiilagi, Acting Chief Executive Officer of MAF Samoa, “We are confronting the real-life consequences of poor diets – malnutrition, obesity, non-communicable diseases and intergenerational cycles of poor health – that are now too common across our communities.”

    The Cost and Affordability Analysis of Diets is a flagship initiative of the joint UN Sustainable Development Goals Fund programme, Catalysing the Samoa National Food Systems Transformation Agenda Through Collective Action, by the Rome-Based Agencies (WFP, Food and Agriculture Organization, and International Fund for Agricultural Development). It supports national priorities outlined in the Samoa Food Systems Pathway 2030, the National Food and Nutrition Policy & Plan of Action 2021–2026, the Health Sector Plan 2019/20–2029/30, and the Agriculture and Fisheries Sector Plan 2022/23–2026/27.

    Drawing on data from the Samoa Bureau of Statistics, the Ministry of Health and other partners, and informed by extensive national stakeholder consultations, the recommendations of the Cost and Affordability Analysis of Diets will inform decision-making across key sectors including agriculture, health, education at both national and community level. 

    “This is a pivotal moment in Samoa’s journey to transform its food systems and place nutrition at the centre of national development,” said Alpha Bah, WFP Representative for the Pacific. “WFP is proud to support the Government of Samoa and partners in turning evidence into action.”

    During the workshop, sectoral working groups contributed insights to validate the findings and proposed tailored actions to help ensure the results lead to meaningful change. Civil society organisations were present to ensure the analysis is grounded in local realities and support community-led solutions.

    “I wish to emphasise again the UN system’s commitment to supporting the Government of Samoa in creating a future where every Samoan has access to the nutritious food needed to lead healthy and productive lives,” said Karla Hershey, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Samoa.

    This initiative reaffirms the strong commitment of the Government of Samoa and WFP to enhance food and nutrition security for Samoans, particularly for the most vulnerable populations.

    #                 #                   #

    The Samoa Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries is committed to promoting sustainable agricultural and fisheries practices to ensure food security and improve the livelihoods of Samoan communities.

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

    Follow us on X, formerly Twitter, via @wfp_media and @wfp_Pacific_

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: WFP and Samoa Lay Groundwork for Food System Improvements at the First Cost and Affordability of Diet Workshop

    Source: World Food Programme

    APIA, SAMOA – The Samoa Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries (MAF), in partnership with the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), co-hosted a national validation workshop to present and discuss findings from Samoa’s first Cost and Affordability Analysis of Diets.

    The workshop brought together representatives from government ministries, UN agencies, international and national non-governmental organisations, civil society, and the private sector to review and validate the findings of the diet cost analysis, and to discuss how the results can inform policies and programmes aimed at improving diet quality and affordability in response to the country’s high burden of non-communicable diseases. 

    “This workshop is a pivotal step in our collective journey to address one of the most pressing development challenges of our time – ensuring access to affordable, nutritious and healthy diets for all Samoans, especially our most vulnerable,” said Seumalo Afele Faiilagi, Acting Chief Executive Officer of MAF Samoa, “We are confronting the real-life consequences of poor diets – malnutrition, obesity, non-communicable diseases and intergenerational cycles of poor health – that are now too common across our communities.”

    The Cost and Affordability Analysis of Diets is a flagship initiative of the joint UN Sustainable Development Goals Fund programme, Catalysing the Samoa National Food Systems Transformation Agenda Through Collective Action, by the Rome-Based Agencies (WFP, Food and Agriculture Organization, and International Fund for Agricultural Development). It supports national priorities outlined in the Samoa Food Systems Pathway 2030, the National Food and Nutrition Policy & Plan of Action 2021–2026, the Health Sector Plan 2019/20–2029/30, and the Agriculture and Fisheries Sector Plan 2022/23–2026/27.

    Drawing on data from the Samoa Bureau of Statistics, the Ministry of Health and other partners, and informed by extensive national stakeholder consultations, the recommendations of the Cost and Affordability Analysis of Diets will inform decision-making across key sectors including agriculture, health, education at both national and community level. 

    “This is a pivotal moment in Samoa’s journey to transform its food systems and place nutrition at the centre of national development,” said Alpha Bah, WFP Representative for the Pacific. “WFP is proud to support the Government of Samoa and partners in turning evidence into action.”

    During the workshop, sectoral working groups contributed insights to validate the findings and proposed tailored actions to help ensure the results lead to meaningful change. Civil society organisations were present to ensure the analysis is grounded in local realities and support community-led solutions.

    “I wish to emphasise again the UN system’s commitment to supporting the Government of Samoa in creating a future where every Samoan has access to the nutritious food needed to lead healthy and productive lives,” said Karla Hershey, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Samoa.

    This initiative reaffirms the strong commitment of the Government of Samoa and WFP to enhance food and nutrition security for Samoans, particularly for the most vulnerable populations.

    #                 #                   #

    The Samoa Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries is committed to promoting sustainable agricultural and fisheries practices to ensure food security and improve the livelihoods of Samoan communities.

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

    Follow us on X, formerly Twitter, via @wfp_media and @wfp_Pacific_

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: WFP and Samoa Lay Groundwork for Food System Improvements at the First Cost and Affordability of Diet Workshop

    Source: World Food Programme

    APIA, SAMOA – The Samoa Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries (MAF), in partnership with the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), co-hosted a national validation workshop to present and discuss findings from Samoa’s first Cost and Affordability Analysis of Diets.

    The workshop brought together representatives from government ministries, UN agencies, international and national non-governmental organisations, civil society, and the private sector to review and validate the findings of the diet cost analysis, and to discuss how the results can inform policies and programmes aimed at improving diet quality and affordability in response to the country’s high burden of non-communicable diseases. 

    “This workshop is a pivotal step in our collective journey to address one of the most pressing development challenges of our time – ensuring access to affordable, nutritious and healthy diets for all Samoans, especially our most vulnerable,” said Seumalo Afele Faiilagi, Acting Chief Executive Officer of MAF Samoa, “We are confronting the real-life consequences of poor diets – malnutrition, obesity, non-communicable diseases and intergenerational cycles of poor health – that are now too common across our communities.”

    The Cost and Affordability Analysis of Diets is a flagship initiative of the joint UN Sustainable Development Goals Fund programme, Catalysing the Samoa National Food Systems Transformation Agenda Through Collective Action, by the Rome-Based Agencies (WFP, Food and Agriculture Organization, and International Fund for Agricultural Development). It supports national priorities outlined in the Samoa Food Systems Pathway 2030, the National Food and Nutrition Policy & Plan of Action 2021–2026, the Health Sector Plan 2019/20–2029/30, and the Agriculture and Fisheries Sector Plan 2022/23–2026/27.

    Drawing on data from the Samoa Bureau of Statistics, the Ministry of Health and other partners, and informed by extensive national stakeholder consultations, the recommendations of the Cost and Affordability Analysis of Diets will inform decision-making across key sectors including agriculture, health, education at both national and community level. 

    “This is a pivotal moment in Samoa’s journey to transform its food systems and place nutrition at the centre of national development,” said Alpha Bah, WFP Representative for the Pacific. “WFP is proud to support the Government of Samoa and partners in turning evidence into action.”

    During the workshop, sectoral working groups contributed insights to validate the findings and proposed tailored actions to help ensure the results lead to meaningful change. Civil society organisations were present to ensure the analysis is grounded in local realities and support community-led solutions.

    “I wish to emphasise again the UN system’s commitment to supporting the Government of Samoa in creating a future where every Samoan has access to the nutritious food needed to lead healthy and productive lives,” said Karla Hershey, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Samoa.

    This initiative reaffirms the strong commitment of the Government of Samoa and WFP to enhance food and nutrition security for Samoans, particularly for the most vulnerable populations.

    #                 #                   #

    The Samoa Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries is committed to promoting sustainable agricultural and fisheries practices to ensure food security and improve the livelihoods of Samoan communities.

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

    Follow us on X, formerly Twitter, via @wfp_media and @wfp_Pacific_

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 3 July 2025 News release Readout on WHO participation in global nuclear emergency exercise

    Source: World Health Organisation

    On 25 June, the World Health Organization (WHO) concluded its participation in a 36-hour nuclear emergency exercise organized by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

    The exercise was part of the IAEA’s Level 3 Convention Exercise (ConvEx-3), the highest and most complex level of its emergency exercises. These large-scale exercises are conducted every three to five years to test emergency preparedness and response capacities and identify areas in need of improvement. The last ConvEx-3 exercise took place in 2021 in cooperation with the United Arab Emirates.

    The exercise involved more than 75 countries and 10 international organizations and was based on a simulated accident at a nuclear power plant in Romania, resulting in the release of significant amounts of radioactive material. Participating countries and organizations exchanged information in real time, assessed evolving risks, coordinated communications, and decided on appropriate protective actions, including the medical response.

    As part of the simulation, WHO set up an Incident Management Support Team composed of experts from country, regional and headquarters offices. The WHO teams liaised with national authorities to monitor the public health impact, developed public health messages on protective actions, and provided guidance on mental health support for affected communities and emergency responders.

    New elements this year included the close coordination of protective measures by neighbouring countries Bulgaria and the Republic of Moldova, the deployment of international assistance missions and the additional challenge of cybersecurity threats. An expanded social media simulator was used to test crisis communication strategies.

    By simulating high-risk cross-border nuclear emergencies, these exercises test existing structures and technical readiness, help build trust and strengthen a coordinated global response. WHO’s ongoing work to strengthen radiation protection of the public, patients and workers worldwide includes providing Member States with evidence-based guidance, tools and technical advice on public health issues related to ionizing and non-ionizing radiation.

    Following the exercise, the IAEA will compile and publish a detailed review of best practices and areas for improvement. WHO will review the lessons learned and adjust processes accordingly.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 3 July 2025 News release Readout on WHO participation in global nuclear emergency exercise

    Source: World Health Organisation

    On 25 June, the World Health Organization (WHO) concluded its participation in a 36-hour nuclear emergency exercise organized by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

    The exercise was part of the IAEA’s Level 3 Convention Exercise (ConvEx-3), the highest and most complex level of its emergency exercises. These large-scale exercises are conducted every three to five years to test emergency preparedness and response capacities and identify areas in need of improvement. The last ConvEx-3 exercise took place in 2021 in cooperation with the United Arab Emirates.

    The exercise involved more than 75 countries and 10 international organizations and was based on a simulated accident at a nuclear power plant in Romania, resulting in the release of significant amounts of radioactive material. Participating countries and organizations exchanged information in real time, assessed evolving risks, coordinated communications, and decided on appropriate protective actions, including the medical response.

    As part of the simulation, WHO set up an Incident Management Support Team composed of experts from country, regional and headquarters offices. The WHO teams liaised with national authorities to monitor the public health impact, developed public health messages on protective actions, and provided guidance on mental health support for affected communities and emergency responders.

    New elements this year included the close coordination of protective measures by neighbouring countries Bulgaria and the Republic of Moldova, the deployment of international assistance missions and the additional challenge of cybersecurity threats. An expanded social media simulator was used to test crisis communication strategies.

    By simulating high-risk cross-border nuclear emergencies, these exercises test existing structures and technical readiness, help build trust and strengthen a coordinated global response. WHO’s ongoing work to strengthen radiation protection of the public, patients and workers worldwide includes providing Member States with evidence-based guidance, tools and technical advice on public health issues related to ionizing and non-ionizing radiation.

    Following the exercise, the IAEA will compile and publish a detailed review of best practices and areas for improvement. WHO will review the lessons learned and adjust processes accordingly.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 3 July 2025 News release Readout on WHO participation in global nuclear emergency exercise

    Source: World Health Organisation

    On 25 June, the World Health Organization (WHO) concluded its participation in a 36-hour nuclear emergency exercise organized by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

    The exercise was part of the IAEA’s Level 3 Convention Exercise (ConvEx-3), the highest and most complex level of its emergency exercises. These large-scale exercises are conducted every three to five years to test emergency preparedness and response capacities and identify areas in need of improvement. The last ConvEx-3 exercise took place in 2021 in cooperation with the United Arab Emirates.

    The exercise involved more than 75 countries and 10 international organizations and was based on a simulated accident at a nuclear power plant in Romania, resulting in the release of significant amounts of radioactive material. Participating countries and organizations exchanged information in real time, assessed evolving risks, coordinated communications, and decided on appropriate protective actions, including the medical response.

    As part of the simulation, WHO set up an Incident Management Support Team composed of experts from country, regional and headquarters offices. The WHO teams liaised with national authorities to monitor the public health impact, developed public health messages on protective actions, and provided guidance on mental health support for affected communities and emergency responders.

    New elements this year included the close coordination of protective measures by neighbouring countries Bulgaria and the Republic of Moldova, the deployment of international assistance missions and the additional challenge of cybersecurity threats. An expanded social media simulator was used to test crisis communication strategies.

    By simulating high-risk cross-border nuclear emergencies, these exercises test existing structures and technical readiness, help build trust and strengthen a coordinated global response. WHO’s ongoing work to strengthen radiation protection of the public, patients and workers worldwide includes providing Member States with evidence-based guidance, tools and technical advice on public health issues related to ionizing and non-ionizing radiation.

    Following the exercise, the IAEA will compile and publish a detailed review of best practices and areas for improvement. WHO will review the lessons learned and adjust processes accordingly.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Suspected people smuggling gang taken down in nationwide strikes

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Suspected people smuggling gang taken down in nationwide strikes

    Seven members of a suspected organised crime group believed to have made millions have been arrested in West Yorkshire and Essex.

    A suspected people-smuggling gang has been arrested for allegedly using false identity documents to smuggle hundreds of people into the UK illegally, luring them into a life of exploitation and misery.  

    On Tuesday 1 July, Immigration Enforcement officers executed warrants in Greater London, and Batley, West Yorkshire and arrested 7 suspects. The targets are believed to have used forged passports and visas of people with legitimate status in the UK to facilitate their illegal arrival, and subsequent employment in black market businesses.   

    The gang is believed to have facilitated the illegal entry of over 500 people with no right to be in the UK.

    Their alleged money-grabbing scheme is believed to have developed into a wide-scale, dangerous criminal network operating across the country, with the 5 men and 3 women believed to have sent fake documents to beneficiaries to evade detection from law enforcement. The gang, who largely targeted Gambian nationals, are also suspected of re-using the fraudulent documents for different imposters hoping to make it to the UK illegally, with an ongoing investigation revealing a substantial quantity of images of passports found on the main suspect’s mobile phone.  

    From booking flights to housing the migrants on arrival and providing them with illegal work, the gang provided a full service and charged around £5,000 per person. 

    This particular gang, like many others, is believed to be charging substantial fees for arranging illegal entry to the UK, with the main suspect believed to have a turnover of over £1.3m in his bank account despite claiming to only earn £35,000 a year working for a furniture manufacturing company.

    Another suspect is believed to have a turnover of over £1m across two bank accounts whilst simultaneously receiving Universal Credit. A further investigation will be launched in order to recover the profits made by this suspected organised criminal gang.

    At the various addresses visited, officers seized several counterfeit identity documents which are believed to have been used in this criminal scheme.

    These arrests form part of this government’s Plan for Change to strengthen the UK’s border security, which is already delivering results, with almost 30,000 people with no right to be here returned since the election and a turbocharge in immigration enforcement activity across the country which has led to a 51% increase in the number of illegal working arrests. 

    Organised criminal gangs who are driven by profit often go to extreme lengths to make their cash, disregarding the safety of humans. The suspects in this case are believed to have been exploiting those they promised to help by forcing them to work in private homes under their control, leaving the survivors trapped in unsafe situations and exhausted for little or no pay.  

    Minister for Border Security and Asylum, Dame Angela Eagle said: 

    This operation is a clear display that we will not stand by and let evil criminal gangs abuse our immigration system. 

    This suspected gang promised their beneficiaries a better life here in the UK. Instead, they face heinous levels of exploitation which is exactly why we are working with law enforcement to ensure survivors of modern slavery are supported and the criminal gangs face justice. 

    Our Border Security Command has £280m of additional funding over the next 4 years to deliver the step-change required to break their business models and deliver our Plan for Change to restore order to the immigration system.

    Ben Ryan, Chief Operating Officer at Medaille Trust, said:

    Medaille Trust is delighted to have collaborated on this operation and to have played a part in ensuring that victims were identified and supported to begin their recovery as survivors.

    We believe that collaborative efforts like this between the Home Office and civil society provide a model for confronting the evils of modern slavery; with a focus on both pursuing abusers and recognising and supporting survivors.

    The Home Office’s Criminal Financial Investigations team works closely with charities like Medaille Trust to support the victims of organised crime by keeping them at the heart of any investigation, providing invaluable expertise and support to the most vulnerable. Through closer collaboration we are able to identify victims and offer them a safe haven to come forward about the abuse they have faced. Medaille Trust provide refuge and freedom from modern slavery and are one of the largest providers of supported safe house beds for victims of modern slavery in the UK.   

    Cracking down on abuse of the immigration system is central to securing the UK’s borders. As set out in the Immigration White Paper in May, the government will introduce tighter controls, restrictions, and scrutiny of those who attempt to abuse and misuse the immigration system. This includes strengthening border security by rolling out digital identity for all overseas citizens through the implementation of eVisas and new systems for checking visa compliance.

    Updates to this page

    Published 3 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Change of His Majesty’s Ambassador to Latvia: Kathy Leach

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Change of His Majesty’s Ambassador to Latvia: Kathy Leach

    Ms Kathy Leach has been appointed His Majesty’s Ambassador to the Republic of Latvia in succession to Mr Paul Brummell CMG, who will be transferring to another Diplomatic Service appointment. Ms Leach will take up her appointment during August 2025.

    Ms Kathy Leach

    Curriculum vitae           

    Full name: Kathy Leach

    Date Role
    2021 to present Astana, His Majesty’s Ambassador
    2019 to 2020 FCDO, Deputy Director, Constitution and Devolution, Europe Directorate
    2015 to 2018 FCO, Head then Deputy Director, Policy Unit, Strategy Directorate
    2012 to 2015 Yerevan, Her Majesty’s Ambassador
    2007 to 2011 Tokyo, Head, Energy and Environment Team
    2005 FCO, Deputy Head, Passport and Documentary Services, Consular
    2001 to 2004 Moscow, First Secretary Security Policy, then Internal Political
    2000 to 2001 FCO, Desk Officer, EU Trade and Development Policy, Europe Directorate
    2000 Joined FCO

    Media enquiries

    Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

    Telephone 020 7008 3100

    Email the FCDO Newsdesk (monitored 24 hours a day) in the first instance, and we will respond as soon as possible.

    Updates to this page

    Published 3 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Local Government Association Conference 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    Local Government Association Conference 2025

    A speech from the Deputy Prime Minister at the Local Government Conference.

    Can I just start by saying how proud I am to be back here in Liverpool.

    And I’m sure you’ve all heard the devasting news this morning about the tragic loss of legend Diogo Jota.

    I know everyone here, his fans and the city of Liverpool will be heartbroken by this news.

    My thoughts are with his family at this saddened time.

    It’s a pleasure to look out at a room full of people dedicated to serving the communities that you represent.

    From Barnsley to Barrow – Cornwall to Cheshire…

    Councillors and mayors are delivering day-in, day-out for local people right across our country.

    I know how hard you work

    I know the difference you make

    I’m for local government because I’m from local government.

    And yes, I wasn’t a councillor. But as a home help and a carer I was on the front line delivering local services.

    And as a union rep, I worked with the leadership of a council to transform the service I worked in, for the good of the people that we served.

    And as a young mum, facing low pay and insecure hours without much of a safety net, it was the Sure Start centre and the council home that helped me turn my life around.

    The services that you deliver every single day changes lives

    And I say that not just as the Deputy Prime Minister, but as someone whose own life was changed by local government

    It’s why, in me, you will always have a Secretary of State that sees you as a partner, and not a punchbag.

    And Conference, it may not surprise you to know – but I’m not a patient person.

    I’ve been restless for 14 years.

    I’m restless to give local people a stronger voice.

    I’m restless to put decision-making in the hands of the people who know best.

    I’m restless to restore local government and provide the change that we were elected to deliver.

    Because I know how hard it has been

    How it feels at the sharp-end at local government level

    That’s why every single day in Westminster I’m fighting to turn that around

    To put power back in your hands, and deliver for communities the length and breadth of Britain.

    So – almost 12 months ago from the General Election, what have we delivered?

    Just last month, in the Spending Review we announced five billion pounds of new funding for local services.

    New funding means an 8% increase in Government funded spending power in the next four years compared to a reduction of 24% in the first four years of the last government.

    We’ve delivered a £4 billion uplift to adult social care

    alongside a targeted recovery grant of £600m for the areas most in need

    we doubled the direct investment in preventative children’s social care services.

    and provided a record £1.6bn for local road maintenance, enough to fill an extra 7 million potholes over the next year. I knew that would wet your whistle.

    And an uplift for every single local highway authority.

    We have refused to repeat the mistakes of the past which took the axe to your budgets, and left our communities to pay the price

    You made the case for local government, and we listened.

    That’s why we’re rolling back the era of micromanagement too, with simpler funding, and a rapid consolidation of your Finance Settlement.

    We are handing you the freedom and flex to meet local needs without needing to get sign off from central government for the most minor change.

    And right now, the paperwork you’re asked to fill out for micro-managed funds every year would stretch from here to the West side of Wirral!

    There’s no justification for that – so we’re cutting it down

    Meaning that you can focus on your priorities, not filling out forms.

    And with more flexible funding, we’re giving you the opportunity to work more collaboratively including through new pilots so councils and mayors can pool budgets and do joined-up services, learning the lessons of projects like Total Place – the last Labour government’s pioneering reform programme.

    Because we know every ambition of this government requires an active, empowered and strong local government.

    And we were elected to bring change, and that change can only be achieved in partnership with you.

    Nowhere is that more obvious than housing.

    None of our ambitions are possible without the support and the expertise of people here today.

    And the extraordinary examples of so many leaders in this room have inspired us to go further and faster.

    Right here in Liverpool, under the leadership of Council leader Liam Robinson and the Mayor Steve Rotheram, this great city is going from strength to strength. 

    You only have to look at the incredible regeneration of the Liverpool Waters district – not too far from here, with new funding unlocking around 2,350 new homes.

    Now Liam said the Central Docks could act as a “beacon for what housing developments in the 21st century can and should be”. 

    It’s hard to argue with that.

    But you know – and I know – you need a government that matches your ambition. 

    And that’s why I am so proud to say that just last month we announced the biggest increase in the social and affordable homes budget for a generation!

    Our historic £39 billion of new Social and Affordable Homes Programme aims to deliver around 300,000 new homes with at least 60% for social rent.

    This is a personal priority not just for me, but for the whole of this Government.

    And I say that, in the context of 160,000 children that are growing up in temporary accommodation

    When a million are living their lives on social housing waiting lists, no government should sit back whilst people live their lives in limbo.

    So through investment and reform, this government is backing councils and the whole social housing sector to deliver council housing.

    That means a brighter future where families aren’t trapped in temporary accommodation and young people are no longer locked out of a secure home.   

    And we’re giving the sector certainty in other areas too.

    A ten-year rent settlement, consulting on how to implement rent convergence,

    Giving social landlords equal access to the building safety funds – for the first time ever

    And in the Autumn, we’ll confirm our approach to help councils to borrow from the Public Works Loan Board.

    And on top of this, we’re also committed to reforming the support given for skills capacity with a new Council Housebuilding Skills & Capacity Programme

    And that will be a partnership between the LGA and Homes England – backed by £12 million in funding – and it will also help you get the skilled staff you need to build.

    And the scale of this challenge means we all need to play our part.

    Local authorities, housing associations, investors, developers, housebuilders, and regulators are all vital to help us reset social housing – so that it’s treated, once again, as the national asset that it is.

    Now, taken together with our bold planning reforms, the new National Housing Bank and the billions we’re putting into transport and infrastructure

    there’s a real opportunity here for councils.

    Opportunity not just to build the decent, and secure homes that working people so desperately need, but to build stronger communities at scale and at pace. 

    Our goal of delivering 1.5 million homes will only be met by building affordable homes, with councils in the driving seat.

    We want our new Programme to be a game-changer.

    We’re setting a target which is six times more than were built in the last decade.

    The truth is for too long, the potential of what local government can achieve has been underestimated by Whitehall.

    Our government was elected to deliver change, and I know how fundamental you all are to delivering that.

    But you’re all having to work within a broken system.

    You’ve been left unequipped to deliver what is being expected of you.

    And despite the huge sums that you’re spending on public services

    On adult Social Care

    Children’s Social Care

    SEND

    and temporary accommodation

    I’m hearing loud and clear from you all, that these services are still not working for the people who need them.

    And the truth is that Westminster just hasn’t kept its side of the bargain.

    Public services need reform, and the onus is on us to work with you to deliver it.

    And that is why I am here today to fire the starting gun on a new way of working with you to deliver the reforms we know are needed.

    First, we are today announcing a fundamental shift, to radically simplify the funding and reporting regime that underpins your work.

    Through a new Local Government Outcomes Framework, we will move together to a completely new way of measuring performance.

    And this will be focused on delivering what we know matters most.

    Outcomes like kids learning to read and write

    people living healthier lives for longer

    and communities feeling safe.

    It brings everything in line with the government’s broader Missions and the Plan for Change

    And means prioritising the long term, instead of getting caught up in the nuts and bolts.

    The aim is that it frees you up to deliver meaningful outcomes

    And facilitates a shift towards prevention.

    But I know that we don’t have all the answers

    So my promise to you, is that if you come with a new way of delivering a service and it shows results, we will work with you to pursue it.

    The micromanagement of previous governments failed

    It wasted taxpayers’ money, and got us into the mess we’re in now.

    We can all recognise there are times when governments have to step in

    And make no mistake, that I’m still prepared to intervene where there is failure to deliver

    But it has to be by the book – and we can’t have a ‘Westminster knows best’ attitude.

    That is why we’re putting together a clear menu of actions of how government will respond where services are failing.

    I want everyone to know where they stand so concerns and weaknesses can be picked up before they become a crisis.

    And I’m committed to writing this with the sector, to get this right the first time.

    There’s real urgency to this – so to the Chief Executives and the Council Leaders here today

    Keep an eye on your inbox, because straight after this speech today, you’ll be receiving details of how to get involved.

    Now everyone in the room knows that ending Whitehall micro-management also means sorting out the spaghetti soup of obligations facing local government.

    That’s why, alongside our new Outcomes Framework, we’ll be launching a comprehensive review to ensure unnecessary regulations and needless asks from government aren’t getting in the way of you serving your communities.

    We will harness the Government’s AI team to unlock efficiencies.

    And work lock step with the LGA so we get it right.

    So, that’s two fundamental shifts in the way this government is doing business with local leaders.

    And we won’t stop there.

    Money is understandably at the forefront of everyone’s minds in this room.

    You watched as your communities were unfairly short-changed for too long.

    So that’s why – my third pledge – is to make good on a promise I made countless times in Opposition.

    A promise to fund councils on the basis of need.

    The last government promised a Fair Funding Review back in 2016, they recognised how outdated and unfair the funding process was back then.

    [Political content removed]

    But not under my watch.

    Anyone who knows me, knows I don’t make promises that I can’t keep!

    I listened to the people in this room calling for government funding to recognise the unique challenges of their place

    whether that be rising temporary accommodation or even the pressure caused by huge footfall in coastal communities on the weekends.

    Many of you – including our colleague, the Minister for Local Government – campaigned for this change for decades.

    And this government  will waste no time in delivering it.

    We will implement a Fair Funding Review.

    And yes, that’s the full-fat version!

    Jim and I will make no apology for this.

    Government grant will be allocated based on the drivers of need in your area in a fair and transparent way.

    We will replace the decade old data, and for the first time, properly take into account factors such as deprivation and poverty

    the cost of remoteness faced by rural communities – meaning bus drivers and refuse collectors have to travel miles to serve their communities.

    We will take into account the varying ability to raise tax locally with lower house prices impacting on councils budgets

    temporary accommodation and the impact of daytime visitors on major cities and coastal towns alike.

    Taken together, this new approach supports every part of the country to manage their unique pressures.

    And I’m impatient – as I know you are – for this change.

    So alongside Minister McMahon, we will waste no time in putting things right to support places that lost out to rebuild those valued services and match money to need.

    And true reform of local government means taking a long and serious look at the plumbing.

    We won’t shy away from that.

    That’s why my fourth on my list of Local Government is Local Government Reorganisation.

    Now I can feel the anxiety levels in the room increasing at that phrase!!

    But I think everyone in this room can agree that governments cannot keep passing the buck on this one.

    If we are serious about shifting local government into a stronger footing…

    And fit for the future

    Delivering good services for residents

    Then we must cut out this needless duplication.

    We must take the brilliant leadership shown by district and county councillors, and move it to a simpler structure

    with more resources for the frontline, and a clearer accountability for residents.

    So many of you in this room have entered this process with an open mind and I want to thank you for your continued support as we navigate towards the end of a two-tier system in England.

    You have my word, that Jim and I will work in partnership with you every step of the way.

    Reforming local government also means learning from our mistakes as well as our successes.

    And my fifth focus is on trusting local government to deliver services in-house.

    Local government has long been the champion of insourcing – and I know too well about your efforts to innovate, and bring services in-house to lower costs and improve outcomes.

    We hear you and are on your side.

    That’s why we’re also delivering new procurement flexibilities for councils so you can confidently support your local businesses, and ensure that the investment and jobs stay local too.

    We are working to undo the ideological presumption of outsourcing by default, as part of our plan to Make Work Pay.

    The truth is that we’ve become hooked on short-term solutions – creating a costly dependence on external providers which can fail to deliver particularly for vulnerable people, young and old.

    You’ve been telling us about your efforts to innovate, and bring services in-house to lower costs and improve outcomes.

    With colleagues across government, we’ll introduce a quick and proportionate public interest test, to decide whether work could be done more effectively in house.

    The consultation on insourcing launched last week and I have no doubt we will get a lot of responses from people here today!

    I know what’s possible when local leaders have the powers to really deliver.

    With local people seeing that change in their high streets, in the opportunities available to young people, and in their hopes for the future.

    That’s why we’re shifting power out of Whitehall to our regions, and making devolution the default setting through our landmark English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill.

    It’s part of building a modern state, built on the foundations of a strong local government.

    So, that all levels and in everything we’re doing – whether through devolution, fairer funding, trusting local government in-house, or giving authorities the certainty and freedom to deliver on what really matter.

    We’re handing power back to where it belongs – to people with skin in the game.

    Resetting, rebuilding, and renewing local government, through ambitious investment and reform, and, with it, our country, after the hardest of years, so  that it, once again, works for working people.

    That’s the difference a government makes.

    That’s the difference you make in your Local communities every single day.

    I’ve got your back. Let’s work together.

    Thank you.

    Updates to this page

    Published 3 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: £150m Capital Grants offer returns to help farmers boost profits

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    £150m Capital Grants offer returns to help farmers boost profits

    The government is making a substantial investment in the future of farming, supporting cleaner rivers, healthier soils, and more resilient landscapes.

    Thousands of farmers will benefit from £150 million in new funding as the government opens a new round of its flagship Capital Grants offer, supporting sustainable food production and environmental improvement. 

    The offer funds a wide range of on-farm projects – from tree planting and flood prevention to improved slurry storage and water filtration – helping farmers boost profitability while protecting the environment. 

    Last year alone, Capital Grants helped plant over 4,000 miles of hedgerows and upgrade slurry systems to keep our rivers clean – real, tangible improvements for farming and the environment. 

    Environment Secretary Steve Reed said: 

    British farmers work tirelessly to feed the nation and look after our countryside. This major investment will give them the tools to cut pollution, restore nature, and grow their businesses. 

    It forms part of the record £11.8 billion we’ve committed to sustainable farming during this Parliament – boosting food security, supporting rural growth, and protecting the environment. 

    The announcement is the latest in a series of steps taken by the government to support the farming industry. These include slashing costs for food producers by cutting red tape on exports to the EU, appointing former NFU president Baroness Minette Batters to recommend reforms to boost farmers’ profits, and ensuring farmers get a bigger share of food contracts across our schools, hospitals, and prisons. 

    Farmers and land managers are now able to apply for a total of 78 items, ranging from supporting natural flood management projects to improving water quality on farms under this new round of the Capital Grants offer. Four new items have been added including assessing woodland condition, creating wildfire management plans, repairing drystone walls and hosting educational visits.  

    Changes are also being introduced to ensure that more farm businesses can access these grants – making it fairer for farmers by setting funding limits that maximise the number of farms benefiting, while enabling Defra to manage budgets more effectively. This includes funding limits to four of the six groups of capital items in this Capital Grants offer. An application can include items from each of the six groups. The funding limit for four of the groups is:   

    • £25,000 maximum for each of the following three groups: water quality, air quality, and natural flood management 

    • £35,000 maximum for the group covering boundaries, trees, and orchards 

    Defra will also listen to feedback from farmers and use it to improve the offer ahead of the next round, which we plan to open in 2026. 

    This comes as the Environment Secretary and Farming Minister head to the Groundswell Show to discuss the new Capital Grants launch. More details about the reformed SFI scheme will be published this Summer. 

    This is part of the government’s wider Plan for Change to grow the rural economy, support our farmers and boost Britain’s food security.

    Updates to this page

    Published 3 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: PM speech at the launch of the 10 Year Health Plan: 3 July 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    PM speech at the launch of the 10 Year Health Plan: 3 July 2025

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s speech at the launch of the 10 Year Health Plan.

    Thank you Rachel, thank you Wes. And thank you Denyse. Come and sit down with us. Denyse’s story is fantastic. Because she works here. She lives in this borough and she uses the services here. 

    What a great testament that is. And Denyse, thank you for your introduction and thank you for your words. 

    It’s a privilege to be here with you in Stratford. I’ve seen the work that you have been doing this morning. And I’m sorry for interrupting your work.  

    I do understand how hard it is. My mum worked in the NHS. She was a nurse, a proud nurse. My sister worked in the NHS and my wife still works in the NHS in one of the big London hospitals. So I do understand what you do, how you do it, what you put in and why you do it. 

    So let me start by saying a big thank you to all of you for what you do, and if I may, through you, to say thank you to all NHS staff right across the country who do what they do as public servants by treating and caring for other people.

    Thank you also for welcoming us here. To your Neighbourhood Health Centre. Because it’s buildings like this here that represent the future of the NHS.

    As I’ve just had the chance to go around and see some of the work that’s going on here. The 24 teams that you have got working on dentistry. I’m really pleased to see that you don’t need an appointment, you can walk in. You have got children and families up there on the next floor having their teeth done. That’s hugely important. 

    And that’s what a Neighbourhood Health Service can do working in partnership with the people it serves. And Denyse you are the embodiment of that.  

    Power and control in their hands. Care closer to their community. Services organised around their lives.   

    But look – before I say a bit more about the future in a minute. But it is important that we go back a year to the NHS left by the last government. With record waiting lists. The lowest ever satisfaction. I know the toll that takes on staff who work so hard. 

    100,000 children waiting more than six hours in A&E. 

    Now – I’m not going to stand here and say that everything is perfect now. We have so much work to do and we will do it. 

    But let’s be under absolutely no illusions. Because of the fair choices we made, the tough [political content redacted] decisions we made the future already looks better for our NHS. 

    That’s the story of this Government in a nutshell. With breakfast clubs, hugely important for children coming into schools so they are ready to learn.

    Potholes across the country – filled. Fuel duty – frozen. Four interest rate cuts, hugely important for mortgage holders.

    Setting up Great British energy, levelling up workers’ rights, record investment in affordable housing, infrastructure the length and breadth of our country. 

    It’s all down to the foundation we laid this year. All down to the path of renewal that we chose. 

    The decisions made by the Chancellor, by Rachel Reeves which mean we can invest record amounts in the NHS.  

    Already over 6000 mental health workers recruited.  

    1700 new GPs. 

    170 Community Diagnostic Centres, really important, already open. 

    New surgical hubs, new mental health units, new ambulance sites. Record investment – right across the system. 

    And because of all that the results are crystal clear. 

    At the last election a year ago, we promised two million extra appointments in the NHS in the first year of [political content redacted] government. 

    We have now delivered four million extra appointments and that’s thanks to your hard work and that of your colleagues. 

    4 million. That’s a record amount for a single year ever. And I want to thank you for the part that you have played in that. 

    That is what change looks like.

    A promise made and a promised delivered. 

    And turning those statistics into the human is really important. So let me tell you about Jane. 

    At Christmas, she was taken to hospital with back pain. 

    And the diagnosis was not good. She needed her gallbladder removed. Jane asked as you can imagine “how long will I have to wait”. 

    And they said – “I’m sorry, but at the moment it could take up to ten months.” 

    Yet – because we have speeded up electives, because we have speeded up appointments, by May – she was offered a private appointment, paid for by the NHS, as part of our plan. 

    And now Jane is pain free. 

    Five months – not ten. 

    She’s got five months back – free from pain, free from anxiety and in a sense her life is no longer on hold. 

    That’s what change looks like in human terms. [Political content redacted.] 

    But we have to keep going. 

    We are fixing the foundations. We made choices no other government would have made and we are starting to repair the damage done to the NHS and public health, through Covid and austerity. 

    But reform isn’t just about fixing problems. It’s also about seizing opportunities. 

    And the way I see it – there is an opportunity here. 

    Because the NHS is at a turning point in its history. 

    We’re an older society now. Disease has changed. 

    Conditions are chronic, they are long-term, they need to be managed. And that means we need to reform the NHS to make it fit for the future. 

    With the technology that is available to us now, we have an unprecedented chance to do that to make care better. 

    To transform the relationship between people and the state. To give patients more power and control. And this is about fairness. 

    Millions of people across Britain no longer feel they get a fair deal. 

    And it’s starting to affect the pride, the hope, the optimism they have in this great country. 

    Our job is to change that. And the NHS is a huge part of it. I mean – for 77 years this weekend the NHS has been an embodiment if you like of British pride, hope, that basic sense of fairness and decency. 

    77 years – of everyone paying in, working hard, doing the right thing, secure in the knowledge, that if they or their family needs it, the NHS will be there for them. 

    In ten years’ time – when this plan has run its course, I want people to say this was the moment, this was the government that secured those values for the future. 

    And look – when people are uncertain about the deal they are getting from this country, what fairer way is there to respond to that than by giving them more control. 

    By partnering with them, to build an NHS that is fit to face the future. 

    That’s what this plan that we are launching today will do. 

    And it will do so in three ways. 

    Three shifts that will transform healthcare in this country. 

    First – we will shift the NHS away from being only a sickness service to a health service that is genuinely preventative in the first place, prevents disease in the first place.  

    That means a stronger focus on vaccination, on screening, early diagnosis.  

    Things like innovative weight loss services – available in pharmacies. 

    Working with major food businesses – to make their products healthier.

    Better mental health support, particularly for our young people. And starting with children aged sixteen this year we will raise the first entirely smoke-free generation. 

    Second – we will shift the NHS away from being a hospital-dominated service to being a community, neighbourhood health service. 

    You can see why we chose to come here. Places like this are the future of our NHS. You don’t have to book an appointment. You can just walk in. There are families here and people who use the services live in this area. 

    Now of course hospitals will always be important – for acute services especially.  

    But I say it again – disease has changed. And we must change with it. 

    And not only can we do that. We can do it in a way that improves care and convenience for millions of people. 

    So just imagining nurses, doctors, pharmacists, dentists, carers, health visitors all under one roof.  

    But also, services like debt advice, employment support, smoking cessation: preventative services which we know are so crucial for a healthy life. 

    Now that is an exciting prospect.  

    You know – the idea that the future of healthcare is no longer defined by top-down citadels of the central state.

    But is instead here – in your home, in your community, in your hands, that’s an inspiring vision of change. 

    It will bring the state and the people it serves into a partnership on something we all care deeply about. 

    But more importantly. It means a future where we have better GP access, no more 8am scrambles, more dental care for your children, better care on your doorstep and a Neighbourhood Health Centres like this in our coastal towns, in rural counties, in every community across the country. Every community across the country. 

    Finally – the third shift from the analogue NHS we have at the moment to a truly digital health service.

    A health service capable of seizing the enormous opportunities before us in science and technology.  

    In genomics, in artificial intelligence, advanced robotics. 

    Look – I have seen in your everyday lives what this can do.

    I’ve spoken to stroke patients who have had their lives saved by technology and AI because it could find the blood clot in their brain in milliseconds, giving them just enough time to be operated on and saving their lives. 

    So this plan – backs technology to deliver. Because it can and will save thousands of lives. But it’s not just about saving lives.

    AI and technology is an opportunity to make services more human. 

    That always sounds counterintuitive, but it does because what it gives all of you and all of your colleagues is more time to care, more time to do the things that only human beings can do which is that care that is needed, the professional skills that you have. So this will make it a more human service as well. 

    It gives you more time to care, to do all the things that brought you into the NHS in the first place.  

    And it’s not just cutting-edge technology either. 

    Technology like the phones in the pockets of everyone in this room we can use that too. 

    Now, you won’t hear this often in a speech – but look at your phones. But look at your apps! Seriously! Because what you see on that screen is that entire industries have reorganised around apps. 

    Retail, transport, finance, weather – you name it. 

    Why can’t we do that with health? 

    Why not the NHS app on your phone? 

    Making use of the same dynamic force to cut waiting lists at your hospital. 

    To make it easier for you to get a GP appointment, to give you more control over our health. 

    There’s no good reason why we can’t. So I can announce today, as part of this plan, that we can, and we will transform the NHS App so that it becomes an indispensable part of life for everyone. 

    It will become – as technology develops – like having a doctor in your pocket. 

    Providing you with 24 hours advice, seven days a week.

    An NHS that really is always there when you need it. 

    Booking appointments at your convenience, ordering your prescriptions, guiding you to local charities or businesses that can improve your wellbeing.  

    And perhaps most importantly, holding all healthcare data in an easily accessible, single patient record.

    Don’t underestimate how important that is. 

    I’ve been up to Alder Hey hospital in Liverpool many times, it’s a children’s hospital, it’s a brilliant hospital. 

    One of the times I was there I was on the ward, particularly young children were having heart surgery. 

    I have to tell you it was really humbling both seeing what the children were going through but also what the professional staff were doing. 

    When I went into a particular ward, I saw a two year old boy who had just had major heart surgery, it’s an incredible thing to see. 

    And I spoke to his parents who were at his bedside throughout. 

    One of the things they raised with me was the distress they felt that they had to go through every single condition that he had over and over again, whether they went to Blackpool, in Liverpool, at Alder Hey. 

    They were actually welling up telling me it’s a really difficult story for us, this is really hard. And we don’t want to keep having to repeat it, why can’t it be recorded the first time around? 

    I will remember their faces and the story they told me for a very long time. 

    But we can fix that. We can make it more accessible. We can bring this together in one place. 

    And there are other examples as well. That red book that every child gets. Why can’t that be digital? There’s no good reason. 

    And so that’s exactly what we’ll do. 

    We will turn this app into a new front door for the entire NHS. 

    A reformed, modernised and renewed – Neighbourhood Health Service. 

    That is the plan we launch today.    

    That is the change we will deliver. 

    [Political content redacted.] 

    The NHS on its feet. Facing the future. Delivering fairness and security for working people. 

    Thank you.

    Updates to this page

    Published 3 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: More than 32 million annuals have been planted in the capital’s flowerbeds

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Specialists from the city economy complex have planted more than 32 million annuals in flowerbeds located in courtyards, parks and squares, on squares and embankments, as well as along key highways and central streets of the capital. In total, more than 120 different types of flowers have been planted, including petunia, begonia, coleus, marigold and cineraria. This was reported by the Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Housing and Public Utilities and Improvement Petr Biryukov.

    “We have now begun planting perennials. Thanks to the phased planting of plants, the city’s flower beds will delight Muscovites and guests of the capital until late autumn,” noted Pyotr Biryukov.

    When growing plants in urban greenhouses, modern technologies are used, such as an automated seeding complex, light and fogging systems, and drip irrigation. This allows you to create a special microclimate and grow strong and healthy plants.

    Additionally, specialists harden off seedlings, thanks to which the plants feel comfortable in flowerbeds under different weather conditions.

    Get the latest news quicklyofficial telegram channel the city of Moscow.

    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.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/156228073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Since the beginning of 2025, more than 5,000 China-Europe /Central Asia/ trains have passed through the Khorgos railway checkpoint

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    URUMQI, July 3 (Xinhua) — The total number of trains running on China-Europe/Central Asia international freight railway routes and passing through the Horgos railway border crossing in northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region since the beginning of 2025 exceeded 5,000 on Wednesday, 42 days earlier than last year.

    The fact that on the same day a freight train carrying electronics, household items and other goods departed for Malaszewicze /Poland/ through this checkpoint testified to this event.

    According to the data, since the beginning of this year, the number of freight trains passing through the Khorgos checkpoint on the China-Europe and China-Central Asia routes has continued to grow. At the same time, on average, more than 27 trains and over 7 million tons of cargo passed through it daily, which is 20 percent more year-on-year.

    To date, more than 47,000 freight trains have passed through the Khorgos checkpoint on the China-Europe and China-Central Asia routes. This border crossing handles 87 corresponding freight routes covering 18 countries. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Investor restores historic building from early 20th century in Presnensky district

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The investor restored a cultural heritage site from the early 20th century on Skatertny Lane. After that, it was transferred to a preferential rental rate under the program “1 ruble per square meter per year.” This was reported by the Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Urban Development Policy and Construction Vladimir Efimov.

    “The program “1 ruble per square meter per year” has been operating in the capital since 2012 and allows attracting an increasing number of investors to restore significant architectural monuments. Another object that was put in order thanks to the efforts of entrepreneurs was the stables with a carriage house of the Tarasov family city estate ensemble. The lease agreement for the object was concluded in June 2022. The investor fulfilled all the conditions of the program and was transferred to a preferential rental rate of one ruble per square meter per year,” said Vladimir Efimov.

    The historic building with an area of over 250 square meters is located at the address: Skatertny Lane, Building 4/2, Building 2. The building is a two-story structure, where the firewall with an arched opening on the first floor has been preserved. All the rooms inside are covered with Monier vaults.

    “In accordance with the agreement concluded with the city, the tenant carried out a complete restoration of the facades and painted the stables in gray with white details according to the model of the main house, and repaired the roof. The decorative elements of the building’s exterior were also restored. The structures were strengthened inside and the utility networks were replaced. Thanks to the transition to a preferential rental rate, the entrepreneur will be able to save more than 4.5 million rubles annually,” she noted.

    Ekaterina Solovieva, Minister of the Moscow Government, Head of the Department of City Property.

    To take advantage of the program, entrepreneurs take part in specialized auctions. Based on their results, they conclude real estate lease agreements with investors for 49 years. To transfer to a preferential rate, it is necessary to carry out restoration and recovery work under the supervision of Department of Cultural Heritage.

    As the head of the Moscow City Department for Competition Policy noted Kirill Purtov, the opportunity to rent historical buildings under a preferential program is in demand among Moscow entrepreneurs. Since 2022, six such objects have been sold at auctions – on average, three participants bid for one lot.

    The investor has restored the premises in a historic building from the early 20th century on Mira AvenueMoscow Art Nouveau: Tarasov Estate Recognized as an Architectural Monument

    More information about current offers from the city, including preferential programs, is published oninvestment portal Moscow.

    To participate in the auction, you will need to register on the electronic trading platform “RoselTorg” and enhanced qualified electronic signature.

    The development of electronic services for entrepreneurs is being implemented within the framework of the national project “Data Economy”.

    Get the latest news quicklyofficial telegram channel the city of Moscow.

    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.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/156189073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: 140 Innovative Ideas: Polytech Becomes a Platform for Tech Startups

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    The Polytechnic University hosted a large-scale Forum of Science and Technological Entrepreneurship, organized as part of the Gazprom Neft initiative Vector of the Future with the support of the autonomous non-profit organization National Priorities.

    The goal of the forum, which is being held for the third year, is to develop applied science, popularize engineering professions, build a trusting dialogue between scientists and business representatives, and involve young specialists and technology teams in entrepreneurial activities.

    At the opening, guests were greeted by Vice-Rector for Research at SPbPU Yuri Fomin and Director of the Gazprom Neft Open Innovations Program Maxim Bardin.

    Yuri Fomin noted that the event touches on the very important topic of technological entrepreneurship for the country and the region, which was also raised at the recently held St. Petersburg International Economic Forum.

    “At many sessions of the SPIEF, they discussed what technological entrepreneurship is, whether it should exist within the university perimeter, or in the external infrastructure,” shared Yuri Vladimirovich. “Opinions varied, but all experts agreed that technological entrepreneurship is important both for universities and for the economy as a whole, so it needs to be developed and supported.”

    Maxim Bardin thanked the guests for participating in the forum, and the Polytechnic University for providing the venue and active support for student scientific entrepreneurship.

    This year, the forum was held in a new format. The traditional “Entrepreneurship” track was dedicated to Gazprom Neft’s Industrix acceleration program, aimed at developing technology startups and innovative solutions for the oil and gas industry. This year, program participants presented experts with 140 innovative developments in the areas of capital construction and industrial safety, electric power, production, drilling and downhole operations, geological exploration, geology and development of oil and gas fields, gas and pipeline transport. The defense of the projects attracted the attention of many participants, because the experts’ assessment determines whether an idea will develop into a startup.

    The Science track included several events. Visitors to the interactive zone “12 Evil Science Viewers” discussed popular science content with representatives of the National Priorities ANO.

    Representatives of Gazpromneft – Industrial Innovations acted as experts in the open session with case studies “The Path of Innovation: from Laboratory Research to Industrial Implementation”.

    Also on the main stage of the forum in the lobby of the Research Building of Technopolis Polytech, an open dialogue with the head of the department of technological development of Gazprom Neft Bogdan Kostyuk and a meetup “From the laboratory to Forbes: how young scientists built a technology business” with the co-founder of the express delivery company for chemical reagents AppScience Maxim Pustovalov took place.

    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: “Steel Camels” are gaining momentum on the Eurasian Continent

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    BEIJING, July 3 (Xinhua) — The Silk Road served as a channel for trade and economic interaction between the East and West, and currently China-Europe freight trains provide uninterrupted freight traffic on the Eurasian continent.

    On June 10 this year, China-Europe freight train 75052 departed from Jiaozhou Station in Qingdao City, Shandong Province, East China.

    Thus, the total number of China-Europe freight train departures has exceeded 110,000, and the value of the cargo they transported has exceeded 450 billion US dollars. For 61 consecutive months, the monthly number of trips has consistently exceeded a thousand.

    If two thousand years ago camel caravans paved the Silk Road, today the “steel dragon” rushes along the golden transport corridor Asia-Europe, demonstrating the dynamics of openness. China-Europe freight trains are becoming a stable driver of high-quality development.

    INCREASING INTENSITY

    Between 2016 and 2024, the annual number of China-Europe freight train departures increased from 1,702 to 19,000, and the value of goods carried increased from an average of US$8 billion to US$66.4 billion.

    Three established route lines, namely western, central and eastern, already pass through China. China-Europe train services have been launched in 128 cities in China, and the number of regular routes on a fixed schedule, which start from the coastal ports of Dalian, Tianjin, Qingdao, Lianyungang and other harbors, has reached 28.

    Outside China, the diversified development of this transport channel is facilitated by the countries located along its routes. In particular, trains reach 229 cities in 26 European countries and more than 100 cities in 11 Asian countries.

    In the western direction, new routes were opened in the framework of international rail-sea combined transportation through the Baltic, Caspian and Black Seas. In the eastern direction, uninterrupted connections were ensured with the new international land-sea trade corridor, the golden waterway of the Yangtze River and seaports, which created new transport corridors in the framework of multimodal rail-sea transportation between East Asia, Southeast Asia and Europe.

    INCREASING EFFICIENCY

    Freight train 75052, which departed on June 10, carried LCD displays, refrigerators and other household appliances. Over the past 10 years, there has been an evolution of product names: from clothing and footwear to the “new three” (electric vehicles, lithium batteries, solar panels), household appliances and high-tech equipment.

    The growing diversity and cost of cargo require increased transportation efficiency. In recent years, given the specifics of transportation organization, the maximum number of cars in one China-Europe train running at 120 km/h has been increased to 55, and the maximum gross train weight to 3,000 tons. Close cooperation with customs authorities has made it possible to optimize the accelerated customs clearance scheme for trains, reducing customs clearance time from half a day to less than 30 minutes, with the fastest clearance taking only a few minutes.

    China Railway Container Transport (CRCT) has set up subsidiaries in Kazakhstan, Germany and other countries, deepening cooperation with local railway authorities and logistics companies to develop bilateral cargo flows.

    DEEPENING INTEGRATION

    Thanks to the new logistics corridors opened by China-Europe freight trains for the interior regions of Asia and Europe, the countries along the route are actively integrating into the open world economy. Spanish wine, Dutch cheese, Thai durian, Laotian bananas have become everyday goods for the Chinese. Electronics, electric cars and everyday goods from China reach Europe faster and at more attractive prices.

    The rise of industry and the development of China-Europe freight trains go hand in hand. For example, the Ereenhot checkpoint in the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region is currently accelerating the transformation of a transit economy into an industrial economy. It has formed a cross-border logistics network that attracts industrial clusters in the production of auto parts, woodworking, etc.

    “China-Europe freight trains with high efficiency, stability and environmental friendliness are changing the architecture of regional economies,” said Li Tiegan, a professor at Shandong University.

    The ‘steel camels’ demonstrate China’s commitment to building an open global economy and promoting common prosperity. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The first freight train departed from Changsha on the international multimodal route China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, July 3 (Xinhua) — A China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan international multimodal freight train departed from Changsha International Railway Port Station in central China’s Hunan Province on Wednesday. It is the first full-length international train in Changsha operating under the multimodal transportation model (railway-road transport) approved by the General Administration of Customs of the People’s Republic of China.

    As reported by the Zhongxinshe news agency, the departure of this train opened a new logistics corridor between Hunan Province and the countries of Central Asia, including all of Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan.

    This has created a shorter, faster and more cost-effective westward route for businesses in Hunan and the surrounding areas. In addition, the train has facilitated flexible distribution across multiple routes, expanding supplies to markets such as West Asia, South Asia, the Middle East and Southern Europe.

    According to the person in charge of the platform running the train, through this new channel, products from Hunan Province can be delivered to customers in Central Asian countries in a shorter time, and the cost of transportation and insurance can be reduced by 30 percent. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China opposes any tariff agreements concluded to the detriment of its interests – Ministry of Commerce of the PRC

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    BEIJING, July 3 (Xinhua) — China firmly opposes any country making trade deals that harm Chinese interests, Commerce Ministry spokesperson He Yongqian said Thursday.

    He Yongqian made the remarks in response to a media question regarding the trade deal between the United States and Vietnam, saying China has taken note of the relevant information and is assessing the developments.

    She said the US’s imposition of so-called “reciprocal tariffs” on its trading partners was a typical act of unilateral bullying, which China has consistently opposed.

    He Yongqian added that China supports other countries’ efforts to resolve trade disputes with the United States through consultations on an equal basis, but firmly opposes any country making deals that harm China’s interests.

    “If such a situation arises, China will take decisive countermeasures to protect its legitimate rights and interests,” she said. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Ship-to-ship liquid carbon dioxide loading and unloading operation completed in China

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, July 3 (Xinhua) — China has completed the loading and unloading of liquid carbon dioxide from ship to ship at the Yangshan Port in Shanghai, Science and Technology Daily reported.

    The event marks a major milestone as China has now achieved full cycle operations of carbon dioxide capture, liquefied gas storage, ship-to-ship loading and unloading and recycling, the news release said.

    The discharge was made possible by a carbon dioxide capture system developed by an institute under the China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC), which achieves a comprehensive capture rate of over 80 percent and a capture purity of 99.9 percent.

    Efficient and safe transportation of liquid carbon dioxide is critical to the large-scale deployment of carbon capture technology on ships.

    The liquid carbon dioxide loading and unloading operation during ship-to-ship operations requires precise vessel positioning, complex piping connections and pressure control. Any slight deviation in operation may lead to risks, said Su Yi, general manager of the environmental protection equipment department at the institute.

    Compared with the traditional ship-to-shore CO2 loading and unloading, the ship-to-ship method allows for a quick response to the needs of vessels arriving from different sea areas.

    Earlier in May this year, China’s first offshore carbon dioxide capture, utilization and storage (CCUS) project was put into operation in the Pearl River Estuary Basin in southern China.

    CCUS is a new technological approach for low-carbon and highly efficient exploitation of fossil energy sources. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Thailand’s King Sworn In New Ministers After Cabinet Reshuffle

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BANGKOK, July 3 (Xinhua) — Thailand’s King Maha Vajiralongkorn swore in a new government on Thursday after approving the cabinet lineup earlier this week.

    Deputy Prime Minister Surya Jungrungreangkit, acting prime minister, led a group of 14 newly appointed and reappointed ministers in swearing allegiance to the king, a mandatory formality before taking office.

    Prime Minister Phetongthan Shinawatra, suspended as head of government by the Constitutional Court pending an ethics investigation, attended the ceremony after being appointed culture minister.

    A group of 36 senators last month petitioned the court to remove Phetongthan Shinawatra from office, accusing her of serious ethical violations related to the leak of a recording of a phone call about border issues with Cambodia.

    Surya Jungrungreangkit will hold a special cabinet meeting later today to assign tasks and responsibilities to deputy prime ministers and ministers, the Thai government said. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Mongolia’s foreign exchange reserves rose to US$5.2 billion by the end of June 2025

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    ULAN BATOR, July 3 (Xinhua) — Mongolia’s foreign exchange reserves have risen to 5.2 billion U.S. dollars by the end of June 2025, local media reported on Thursday, citing data from the country’s central bank.

    This figure increased by 0.24 percent compared to the previous month and decreased by 5.51 percent since the beginning of the year, the official report says.

    According to analysts, an increase in foreign exchange reserves is a guarantee of economic stability and helps to improve the country’s credit rating, having a positive impact on the financial performance of the private sector, as well as strengthening public confidence in the national currency.

    The Central Bank of Mongolia is expected to increase its gold and foreign exchange reserves to $6.5 billion in the medium term. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Deputy Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Navy M. Gudkov Dies in Kursk Region

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    Moscow, July 3 /Xinhua/ — Deputy Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Navy, former commander of the 155th Separate Guards Brigade, Major General Mikhail Gudkov died in the Kursk region, Primorsky Krai Governor Oleg Kozhemyako reported on his Telegram channel.

    “I express my deepest condolences to the families, friends and fellow soldiers of Mikhail Gudkov, Nariman Shikhaliev and all the other soldiers who died in the Kursk region. Guards Major General, Hero of Russia, Hero of Primorye, Deputy Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Navy, former commander of the 155th Separate Guards Kursk Orders of Zhukov and Suvorov Marine Brigade of the Pacific Fleet died while performing his duty as an officer together with his fellow soldiers,” the statement reads.

    According to O. Kozhemyako, M. Gudkov, having become deputy commander-in-chief of the Navy, did not stop personally visiting the positions of the marines. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Flood emergency response activated in northwest China’s Qinghai Province

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, July 3 (Xinhua) — Amid a new round of heavy rains, China’s Ministry of Water Resources on Thursday activated a Level 4 emergency response for flooding in northwest China’s Qinghai Province.

    Heavy rainfall is forecast for eastern and southern Qinghai Province from Thursday to Saturday, with the storm expected to cause significant water levels in the upper reaches and tributaries of the Yellow River in the province, and flood levels in some small and medium-sized rivers in severely affected areas may exceed danger levels.

    Local authorities are urged to strengthen flood monitoring and early warning, ensure effective flood control on rivers, and ensure the safety of people’s lives and property.

    Based on the 24-hour rainfall forecast, the ministry issued warnings for 10 other provincial-level regions, including Hebei, Liaoning and Hainan provinces, urging them to take precautions and prepare for heavy rain.

    Currently, three provincial-level regions of the country, namely Chongqing Municipality, Sichuan Province and Gansu Province, are under Level 4 flood emergency response.

    Let us recall that China has adopted a four-tier emergency response system for flood-related emergencies, with level 1 being the highest. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: South Korean parliament approves prime minister nominee

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    SEOUL, July 3 (Xinhua) — South Korea’s parliament on Thursday approved Kim Min-suk’s candidacy for the post of prime minister.

    The proposal to appoint Kim Min-seok, a lawmaker from the ruling Toburo Democratic Party, was approved by 173 votes in favor, three against and three abstentions.

    Of the 300 members of the National Assembly, controlled by the ruling party, lawmakers from the conservative opposition Civil Power Party refused to vote on the issue, calling on Kim Min-suk to step down voluntarily.

    Kim Min-suk was appointed prime minister on June 4 after President Lee Jae-myung was sworn in. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Keynote speech by Permanent Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury (Financial Services) at Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited’s Integrated Fund Platform Order Routing Service Launch Ceremony (English only) (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is the keynote speech by the Permanent Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury (Financial Services), Ms Salina Yan, at the Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited (HKEX)’s Integrated Fund Platform Order Routing Service Launch Ceremony today (July 3):
     
    Bonnie (Chief Executive Officer of the HKEX, Ms Bonnie Chan), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
     
         It is my great pleasure to join you all today at the Launch Ceremony of the Order Routing Service under the Integrated Fund Platform operated by the HKEX.
     
         Digital infrastructure is key to the operation and development of the modern-day capital market. Today’s launch ceremony signifies a solid step in the construction of a market-wide infrastructure for our fund management industry leveraging the advancement in technology.
     
         For the first six months of this year – 2025, the Hong Kong stock market’s daily turnover reached HK$240 billion on average, up 118 per cent year on year. We also saw 44 IPOs (initial public offerings) raising a total of HK$107 billion, surpassing the annual figure of 2024 by 22 per cent and assuming a leading position in the world’s IPO fund raised during the same period this year.
     
         Fund flows in the collective investment scheme and asset management space are equally active. As of end-March 2025, for Hong Kong-domiciled funds, an overall net inflow of about HK$343 billion was recorded over the past 12 months, representing an increase of 285 per cent year on year. The AUM (assets under management) surged by close to 40 per cent, and the number of licensed corporations providing asset management services rose by about 5 per cent.
     
         As our capital market continues to grow in depth and breadth, we need to maintain the robustness and nimbleness of our backbone infrastructure to keep up with the demand and cater for future development. Legislative framework and regulatory regimes also have to be refreshed from time to time in order to bring out the growth potential in the marketplace and remove bottlenecks and inefficiencies that may exist.
     
         For example, to enrich the suite of products that can be made available to the market, the Government has amended the Securities and Futures Ordinance and enacted a new piece of legislation to introduce the open-ended fund company or OFC and limited partnership fund or LPF regimes to enable funds to set up in company and limited partnership forms. The diversified fund structures have been well received. As of the end of May this year, over 560 OFCs have been set up, and nearly 1 150 LPFs have been established in Hong Kong.
     
         In addition, we keep enhancing our connectivity with the Mainland market. For example, since the launch of the Cross-boundary Wealth Management Connect (WMC) 2.0 in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area in February 2024 which, among other enhancement measures, allowed the investment quota per investor to go up to RMB3 million, there has been a significant increase in the number of investors and amount of cross-boundary fund remittances. As of end-May 2025, some 158 000 individual investors participated in the WMC. Cross-boundary fund remittances amounted to over RMB115 billion, around seven times increase compared with WMC 1.0.
     
         We are also expanding our international network. Two ETFs (exchange-traded funds) tracking Hong Kong indices were listed on the Saudi Exchange last year. In May this year, we saw Asia’s first investment-grade sukuk ETF listing in Hong Kong, as well as a new Mutual Recognition of Funds arrangement reached with Ireland.
     
         All these market development initiatives are going hand in hand with the upgrading of our financial market infrastructure. The HKSAR (Hong Kong Special Administrative Region) Government has been working with parties concerned to establish paperless, straight-through and one-stop integrated digital platforms for the provision of financial services, taking advantage of fintech developments and the rise of blockchain and AI. The goal is to increase efficiency and lower costs. As a key market operator, the HKEX has an important role to play in this, and we are very pleased to have the HKEX’s active participation and partnership in this journey.
     
         The implementation of an uncertificated securities market in Hong Kong, for example, will be a significant step towards modernising our securities market. It will allow individual investors to own securities in their names without a paper certificate and manage transactions through a digitalised platform. The Government, in collaboration with the Securities and Futures Commission and the HKEX, has completed all the relevant legislative work this year, with a view to launching the regime in the first half of 2026 following market preparations.
     
         Moving from securities to funds, I am glad to note that the first phase of the Integrated Fund Platform, the Fund Repository, has received positive responses for its comprehensive coverage and ease of use. I am also very pleased to note that the second phase of the Platform, the Order Routing Service launched today, has attracted the participation of major banks, transfer agents, brokers and fund houses. Leveraging the Communications Network developed jointly with the Shenzhen Stock Exchange, the Order Routing Service provides end-to-end transmission of subscription and redemption orders among fund distributors and transfer agents. I understand that development work on additional functionalities in the next phase, including nominee services and facilitation of payment and settlement, is under way.
     
         The development of an efficient and vibrant fund distribution ecosystem will drive market efficiency and lower transaction costs. This would in turn benefit end-investors and help realise our vision as the world’s top asset management hub and strengthening our status as an international financial centre. I congratulate the HKEX and its partner organisations on reaching this milestone and look forward to the full operation of a one-stop Platform encompassing the entire functionalities taking heed of user experience and stakeholder feedback. Thank you.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Keynote speech by Permanent Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury (Financial Services) at Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited’s Integrated Fund Platform Order Routing Service Launch Ceremony (English only) (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is the keynote speech by the Permanent Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury (Financial Services), Ms Salina Yan, at the Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited (HKEX)’s Integrated Fund Platform Order Routing Service Launch Ceremony today (July 3):
     
    Bonnie (Chief Executive Officer of the HKEX, Ms Bonnie Chan), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
     
         It is my great pleasure to join you all today at the Launch Ceremony of the Order Routing Service under the Integrated Fund Platform operated by the HKEX.
     
         Digital infrastructure is key to the operation and development of the modern-day capital market. Today’s launch ceremony signifies a solid step in the construction of a market-wide infrastructure for our fund management industry leveraging the advancement in technology.
     
         For the first six months of this year – 2025, the Hong Kong stock market’s daily turnover reached HK$240 billion on average, up 118 per cent year on year. We also saw 44 IPOs (initial public offerings) raising a total of HK$107 billion, surpassing the annual figure of 2024 by 22 per cent and assuming a leading position in the world’s IPO fund raised during the same period this year.
     
         Fund flows in the collective investment scheme and asset management space are equally active. As of end-March 2025, for Hong Kong-domiciled funds, an overall net inflow of about HK$343 billion was recorded over the past 12 months, representing an increase of 285 per cent year on year. The AUM (assets under management) surged by close to 40 per cent, and the number of licensed corporations providing asset management services rose by about 5 per cent.
     
         As our capital market continues to grow in depth and breadth, we need to maintain the robustness and nimbleness of our backbone infrastructure to keep up with the demand and cater for future development. Legislative framework and regulatory regimes also have to be refreshed from time to time in order to bring out the growth potential in the marketplace and remove bottlenecks and inefficiencies that may exist.
     
         For example, to enrich the suite of products that can be made available to the market, the Government has amended the Securities and Futures Ordinance and enacted a new piece of legislation to introduce the open-ended fund company or OFC and limited partnership fund or LPF regimes to enable funds to set up in company and limited partnership forms. The diversified fund structures have been well received. As of the end of May this year, over 560 OFCs have been set up, and nearly 1 150 LPFs have been established in Hong Kong.
     
         In addition, we keep enhancing our connectivity with the Mainland market. For example, since the launch of the Cross-boundary Wealth Management Connect (WMC) 2.0 in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area in February 2024 which, among other enhancement measures, allowed the investment quota per investor to go up to RMB3 million, there has been a significant increase in the number of investors and amount of cross-boundary fund remittances. As of end-May 2025, some 158 000 individual investors participated in the WMC. Cross-boundary fund remittances amounted to over RMB115 billion, around seven times increase compared with WMC 1.0.
     
         We are also expanding our international network. Two ETFs (exchange-traded funds) tracking Hong Kong indices were listed on the Saudi Exchange last year. In May this year, we saw Asia’s first investment-grade sukuk ETF listing in Hong Kong, as well as a new Mutual Recognition of Funds arrangement reached with Ireland.
     
         All these market development initiatives are going hand in hand with the upgrading of our financial market infrastructure. The HKSAR (Hong Kong Special Administrative Region) Government has been working with parties concerned to establish paperless, straight-through and one-stop integrated digital platforms for the provision of financial services, taking advantage of fintech developments and the rise of blockchain and AI. The goal is to increase efficiency and lower costs. As a key market operator, the HKEX has an important role to play in this, and we are very pleased to have the HKEX’s active participation and partnership in this journey.
     
         The implementation of an uncertificated securities market in Hong Kong, for example, will be a significant step towards modernising our securities market. It will allow individual investors to own securities in their names without a paper certificate and manage transactions through a digitalised platform. The Government, in collaboration with the Securities and Futures Commission and the HKEX, has completed all the relevant legislative work this year, with a view to launching the regime in the first half of 2026 following market preparations.
     
         Moving from securities to funds, I am glad to note that the first phase of the Integrated Fund Platform, the Fund Repository, has received positive responses for its comprehensive coverage and ease of use. I am also very pleased to note that the second phase of the Platform, the Order Routing Service launched today, has attracted the participation of major banks, transfer agents, brokers and fund houses. Leveraging the Communications Network developed jointly with the Shenzhen Stock Exchange, the Order Routing Service provides end-to-end transmission of subscription and redemption orders among fund distributors and transfer agents. I understand that development work on additional functionalities in the next phase, including nominee services and facilitation of payment and settlement, is under way.
     
         The development of an efficient and vibrant fund distribution ecosystem will drive market efficiency and lower transaction costs. This would in turn benefit end-investors and help realise our vision as the world’s top asset management hub and strengthening our status as an international financial centre. I congratulate the HKEX and its partner organisations on reaching this milestone and look forward to the full operation of a one-stop Platform encompassing the entire functionalities taking heed of user experience and stakeholder feedback. Thank you.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • PM Modi pays homage to Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana’s founding President

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday visited the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park in Accra, paying homage to Ghana’s founding President and towering figure of Africa’s independence movement.

    Accompanied by Ghana’s Vice-President, Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, PM Modi laid a floral wreath and observed a moment of silence at the mausoleum that houses the mortal remains of Dr. Nkrumah and his wife, Fathia Nkrumah.

    The tribute underlined India’s longstanding respect for Ghana’s rich anti-colonial legacy and reflected the enduring ties between the two nations.

    The memorial, designed by architect Don Arthur, stands as a symbol of Dr. Nkrumah’s pivotal role in leading the Gold Coast to independence from British rule in 1957. Ghana’s independence made it the first sub-Saharan African nation to achieve self-rule, inspiring liberation movements across the continent.

    A proponent of Pan-African unity and a key architect of the Non-Aligned Movement, Dr. Nkrumah’s vision extended beyond national borders. He advocated African solidarity and international cooperation at a time when newly independent states were seeking a collective voice on the global stage.

    Dr. Nkrumah’s ideas on neo-colonialism and his writings, including Neo-Colonialism: The Last Stage of Imperialism, continue to influence debates on post-colonial development. Despite facing political challenges and being overthrown in a coup in 1966, his legacy remains deeply embedded in Ghana’s national consciousness.

    Earlier during his visit, PM Modi was conferred with Ghana’s highest civilian award — The Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana — by President John Mahama. Expressing gratitude, the Prime Minister described the honour as “a matter of immense pride” for India.

    “It is a matter of great pride and honour for me to be conferred with Ghana’s national award, The Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana, by the President. I humbly accept this honour on behalf of 1.4 billion Indians,” PM Modi said, dedicating the award to the youth of both nations.

    PM Modi’s visit, the first by an Indian Prime Minister in over three decades, signals New Delhi’s continued outreach to Africa and the Global South. During discussions with President Mahama, both leaders agreed to elevate bilateral ties to a Comprehensive Partnership, underscoring cooperation in trade, investment and people-to-people exchanges.

    (ANI)

  • PM Modi dedicates Ghana’s highest state honour ‘to enduring friendship, shared values’ with India

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday addressed the Parliament of Ghana and dedicated the prestigious “Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana” conferred on him to the enduring friendship and shared values between the two countries.

    PM Modi was conferred with The Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana, the country’s highest civilian honour, by President John Mahama on Wednesday. PM Modi thanked Ghana’s President for the honour and called it a “matter of immense pride”.

    During his address to the country’s Parliament, the Prime Minister expressed his gratitude to the African nation on behalf of 1.4 billion Indians and noted the emotional connection to the award.

    “Last evening was a moving experience. Receiving your national award from my dear friend, President Mahama, is an honour. I will always cherish this. On behalf of the 1.4 billion people of India, I thank the people of Ghana for the award. I dedicate it to the enduring friendship and shared values between India and Ghana,” PM Modi said.

    He hailed the West African nation for its enduring commitment to democracy, dignity, and resilience, calling it a “beacon of inspiration” for the African continent.

    “It is a privilege to be in Ghana, a land that radiates the spirit of democracy, dignity and resilience. As the representative of the world’s largest democracy, I bring with me the goodwill and greetings of 1.4 billion Indians,” the Prime Minister said.

    Highlighting the deep cultural and historical connections between the two nations, he praised Ghana not only for its natural wealth but also for the warmth and strength of its people.

    “Ghana is known as the land of gold, not just for what lies under your soil but as much for the warmth and strength in your heart. When we look at Ghana, we see a nation that stands with courage that rises above history that meets every challenge with dignity and grace. Your commitment to democratic ideals and inclusive progress truly makes Ghana a beacon of inspiration for the entire African continent,” he added.

    Earlier today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the Nkrumah Memorial Park in Ghana’s Accra and paid tribute to Dr Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana’s founding President and a revered leader of the African independence movement.

    “Earlier today, I had the honour of paying tribute to our visionary and statesman and the beloved son of Ghana, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. He once said that the forces that unite us are greater than the superimposed influences that keep us apart. His words continue to guide our shared journey…” the Prime Minister said.

    During his visit, he was accompanied by the Vice President of Ghana, Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang. The Prime Minister laid a floral wreath and observed a moment of silence in honour of Dr Nkrumah’s lasting contributions to freedom, unity, and social justice.

    Ghana marks the first stop on PM Modi’s five-nation tour from July 2 to 9, which includes visits to Trinidad & Tobago, Argentina, Brazil, and Namibia.

    This is the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Ghana in over 30 years. The trip is expected to deepen the India-Ghana partnership and signal New Delhi’s continued engagement with Africa and the Global South.

    (ANI)

  • PM Modi receives Ghana’s highest civilian award, now honoured by 24 countries

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is on a five-nation tour, was on Wednesday conferred with Ghana’s highest civilian award — the Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana.

    The honour was bestowed during his landmark visit to the West African nation, the first by an Indian Prime Minister in over three decades.

    With this, PM Modi has now received the highest civilian honours from 24 countries, the most by any Indian leader. These prestigious accolades include Russia’s Order of St. Andrew, the UAE’s Zayed Medal, France’s Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour, the Maldives’ Rule of Nishan Izzuddin, as well as similar recognitions from Nigeria, Cyprus, Fiji, and others.

    Accepting the award, PM Modi dedicated it to the 1.4 billion citizens of India, particularly its youth, rich cultural traditions, and diversity. He also highlighted the deep-rooted ties between India and Ghana, built on a shared foundation of democratic values and mutual respect.