NewzIntel.com

Category: Africa

  • We thank Ghana for its cooperation in our fight against terrorism: PM Modi in Accra

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said India and Ghana are in complete agreement that “terrorism is an enemy of humanity” and thanked Ghana for its cooperation in India’s fight against terrorism.

    PM Modi held delegation-level talks with Ghana’s President John Mahama during his first-ever bilateral visit to the West African country.

    “We discussed shared visions on development, economic regions, and inclusive global governance. We are in full agreement that terrorism is an enemy of humanity. We thank Ghana for its cooperation in our fight against terrorism. In this context, we agreed to further strengthen mutual cooperation in counter-terrorism,” the Prime Minister said.

    Stressing the shared values on which India-Ghana ties are based, PM Modi said: “At the core of the India-Ghana friendship lie our shared values, common struggles, and collective dreams for an inclusive future. The freedom struggles of our nations have inspired many other countries. Even today, Ghana stands as a vibrant democracy in West Africa and serves as a strong and living example for other countries.”

    PM Modi also said that it was a matter of great honour for him that President Mahama himself came to the airport to receive him.

    Apart from discussions on development, the economy and inclusive global governance with President Mahama, PM Modi also underlined the need for reforms in the United Nations.

    “We share a common perspective on the need for reforms in the United Nations. Mr President, you are a close friend of India and are very familiar with our country. I extend to you an invitation to visit India. I am confident you will give us the opportunity to host you in India soon,” he added.

    “Our bilateral trade has crossed $3 billion. Indian companies have invested nearly $2 billion in about 900 projects across Ghana. Today, we have set a target to double our mutual trade in the next five years. In the field of fintech, India is ready to share its experience of UPI digital payments with Ghana. Development partnership is a key pillar of our cooperation. We assure President Mahama of India’s full support and cooperation in his efforts towards economic revitalisation,” Modi said.

    The two leaders discussed various aspects of enhancing cooperation between India and Ghana across a wide range of sectors.

    Mahama said both countries are looking to expand economic and diplomatic ties at a crucial time for Ghana’s economy.

    “Both countries are committed to deepening economic and investment relations, particularly at a time when Ghana is undergoing economic restructuring due to the debt treatment process and the ongoing International Monetary Fund programme. Going forward, Ghana and India intend to pursue these engagements through diplomatic mechanisms, including Foreign Office Consultations and the Permanent Joint Commission for Cooperation, to bring to fruition the intended outcomes of our partnership for mutual benefit,” Mahama said.

    “This visit is particularly significant, as it marks the first leg of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Africa tour, which will culminate in the BRICS Summit in Brazil. The two sides have engaged in meaningful discussions to deepen cooperation across various sectors of our economies, including agriculture, energy, manufacturing, infrastructure development, human resources, and health, among others,” Mahama added.

    IANS

  • PM Modi receives Ghana’s highest state honour, ‘The Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana’

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday was conferred with Ghana’s national honour,  ‘The Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana’, by President John Dramani Mahama, in recognition of his distinguished statesmanship and influential global leadership, the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement.

    Accepting the award, the Prime Minister said, “It is a matter of immense pride and honour for me to be conferred with Ghana’s highest honour… I express my deep gratitude to President Mahama, the Government of Ghana and the people of Ghana. I humbly accept this honour on behalf of 1.4 billion Indians.”

    “I dedicate this award to the aspirations of our youth, their bright future, our rich cultural diversity and traditions and the historic ties between India and Ghana,” the PM added.

    Noting that the shared democratic values and traditions of the two countries would continue to strengthen their partnership, the Prime Minister said the award further deepens the friendship between India and Ghana and places a new responsibility on him to advance bilateral ties. He expressed confidence that his historic state visit would give fresh momentum to the partnership, the MEA statement added.

    Earlier, Prime Minister Modi announced that India would establish a Skill Development Centre to train youth and support Ghana’s ‘Feed Ghana’ programme, as part of a broader plan to strengthen ties between the two countries.

    During a joint press briefing with President Mahama, PM Modi said India would expand cooperation with Ghana in key sectors including agriculture, education, defence, healthcare and digital payments.

    “Today, we have decided to double the ITEC and ICCR scholarships for Ghana. Work will be done to establish a Skill Development Centre for the vocational education of youth,” PM Modi said.

    “In the agricultural sector, we would be happy to cooperate with President Mahama’s ‘Feed Ghana’ programme. Through Jan Aushadhi Kendra, India proposes to provide affordable and reliable healthcare to the citizens of Ghana. We also discussed cooperation in vaccine production,” he added.

    The Prime Minister said India plans to double trade with Ghana within the next five years and share its digital payments system, Bharat UPI, to boost financial connectivity.

    President Mahama welcomed Prime Minister Modi and said the visit reflected the longstanding friendship between the two countries.

    “This visit is a testament to the deep-rooted historical ties between Ghana and India, founded on the visionary leadership of Ghana’s first President, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, and India’s former Prime Minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, as well as the ever-growing bonds of friendship and cooperation that exist between our two sisterly countries for the mutual benefit of our people,” Mahama said.

    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 state honour, ‘The Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana’

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday was conferred with Ghana’s national honour,  ‘The Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana’, by President John Dramani Mahama, in recognition of his distinguished statesmanship and influential global leadership, the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement.

    Accepting the award, the Prime Minister said, “It is a matter of immense pride and honour for me to be conferred with Ghana’s highest honour… I express my deep gratitude to President Mahama, the Government of Ghana and the people of Ghana. I humbly accept this honour on behalf of 1.4 billion Indians.”

    “I dedicate this award to the aspirations of our youth, their bright future, our rich cultural diversity and traditions and the historic ties between India and Ghana,” the PM added.

    Noting that the shared democratic values and traditions of the two countries would continue to strengthen their partnership, the Prime Minister said the award further deepens the friendship between India and Ghana and places a new responsibility on him to advance bilateral ties. He expressed confidence that his historic state visit would give fresh momentum to the partnership, the MEA statement added.

    Earlier, Prime Minister Modi announced that India would establish a Skill Development Centre to train youth and support Ghana’s ‘Feed Ghana’ programme, as part of a broader plan to strengthen ties between the two countries.

    During a joint press briefing with President Mahama, PM Modi said India would expand cooperation with Ghana in key sectors including agriculture, education, defence, healthcare and digital payments.

    “Today, we have decided to double the ITEC and ICCR scholarships for Ghana. Work will be done to establish a Skill Development Centre for the vocational education of youth,” PM Modi said.

    “In the agricultural sector, we would be happy to cooperate with President Mahama’s ‘Feed Ghana’ programme. Through Jan Aushadhi Kendra, India proposes to provide affordable and reliable healthcare to the citizens of Ghana. We also discussed cooperation in vaccine production,” he added.

    The Prime Minister said India plans to double trade with Ghana within the next five years and share its digital payments system, Bharat UPI, to boost financial connectivity.

    President Mahama welcomed Prime Minister Modi and said the visit reflected the longstanding friendship between the two countries.

    “This visit is a testament to the deep-rooted historical ties between Ghana and India, founded on the visionary leadership of Ghana’s first President, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, and India’s former Prime Minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, as well as the ever-growing bonds of friendship and cooperation that exist between our two sisterly countries for the mutual benefit of our people,” Mahama said.

    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 state honour, “Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana”

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday was conferred with Ghana’s national honour, the Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana, by President John Dramani Mahama, in recognition of his distinguished statesmanship and influential global leadership, the Ministry of External Affairs said in an official statement.

    Accepting the award on behalf of 1.4 billion Indians, the Prime Minister dedicated the honour to the aspirations of India’s youth, its cultural traditions and diversity, and the historical ties between Ghana and India.

    PM Modi thanked the people and government of Ghana for this special gesture.

    Noting that the shared democratic values and traditions of the two countries would continue to strengthen their partnership, the Prime Minister said the award further deepens the friendship between India and Ghana and places a new responsibility on him to advance bilateral ties. He expressed confidence that his historic State Visit would give fresh momentum to the partnership, the MEA statement added.

    Earlier, Prime Minister Modi announced that India would establish a Skill Development Centre to train youth and support Ghana’s ‘Feed Ghana’ programme, as part of a broader plan to strengthen ties between the two countries.

    During a joint press briefing with President Mahama, Modi said India would expand cooperation with Ghana in key sectors including agriculture, education, defence, healthcare and digital payments.

    “Today, we have decided to double the ITEC and ICCR scholarships for Ghana. Work will be done to establish a Skill Development Centre for the vocational education of youth,” Modi said.

    “In the agricultural sector, we would be happy to cooperate with President Mahama’s ‘Feed Ghana’ programme. Through Jan Aushadhi Kendra, India proposes to provide affordable and reliable healthcare to the citizens of Ghana. We also discussed cooperation in vaccine production,” he added.

    The Prime Minister said India plans to double trade with Ghana within the next five years and share its digital payments system, Bharat UPI, to boost financial connectivity.

    President Mahama welcomed Prime Minister Modi and said the visit reflected the longstanding friendship between the two countries.

    “This visit is a testament to the deep-rooted historical ties between Ghana and India, founded on the visionary leadership of Ghana’s first President, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, and India’s former Prime Minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, as well as the ever-growing bonds of friendship and cooperation that exist between our two sisterly countries for the mutual benefit of our people,” Mahama said.

    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)

     

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Belarus and Libya Sign Package of Cooperation Documents

    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

    MINSK, July 2 /Xinhua/ – Belarus and Libya signed a package of documents on cooperation on Wednesday following the visit of the Libyan government delegation to Minsk, BelTA reported.

    Among the signed documents is an agreement of intent between the ministries of industry of the two countries. The Ministry of Agriculture and Food of Belarus and the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock of the Government of National Stability of Libya signed a memorandum of understanding on the development of cooperation in the field of agriculture. A protocol of intent was also signed between the Ministry of Agriculture and Food of Belarus and the National Development Agency of Libya.

    In addition, the parties signed a memorandum of intent on cooperation between the Ministry of Education of Belarus and the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research of the Government of National Stability of Libya, a protocol of intent on the creation of an emergency prevention and response system in Benghazi, and an action plan for the development of cooperation in the field of healthcare.

    At the end of the signing ceremony of the package of documents, Prime Minister of Belarus Alexander Turchin particularly noted that the parties had summed up an important result of the next stage of bilateral work. “I am simply confident that this event will give a serious impetus to further interaction between Belarus and Libya. I am grateful to all my colleagues who worked intensively to ensure that our cooperation continues at such a high level,” said the Prime Minister of Belarus. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Georgia expelled over 40 foreign citizens for violating migration laws

    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

    Tbilisi, July 2 (Xinhua) — As a result of joint measures carried out by the Migration Department and other units of the Georgian Interior Ministry, 41 foreign citizens were expelled from the country, the press service of the Georgian Interior Ministry reported on Wednesday.

    The expulsion was carried out on the basis of the Georgian Law on the Legal Status of Foreigners and Stateless Persons. Among those deported were citizens of Azerbaijan, Turkey, Turkmenistan, India, Jordan, Iran, Nepal, Pakistan, Russia, South Africa, Armenia and Zimbabwe. All of them were banned from re-entering the country.

    According to official data, 525 foreign citizens were deported from Georgia between January and June 2025. This is 280 percent more than the same period last year.

    In late June, the Georgian parliament approved a package of legislative amendments aimed at tightening migration policy. The new rules provide for a simplified deportation procedure. Court proceedings will no longer suspend the expulsion process if a visa or residence permit is refused. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • PM Modi holds wide-ranging talks with Ghana President, signs key MoUs

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday met Ghanaian President Dr. John Dramani Mahama in Accra, marking the first state visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Ghana in three decades.

    PM Modi was received by President Mahama at Jubilee House, the official residence and office of the Ghanaian President. The two leaders held detailed discussions in restricted and delegation-level formats, agreeing to elevate the bilateral relationship to a Comprehensive Partnership.

    During the talks, both sides reaffirmed the longstanding and cordial ties between India and Ghana and explored ways to deepen cooperation in areas including trade and investment, agriculture, capacity building, digital technology, infrastructure, and people-to-people exchanges.

    PM Modi welcomed the steady growth in bilateral trade and the increasing presence of Indian investments in Ghana. The leaders also discussed steps to strengthen defence and security collaboration, as well as development cooperation through India-supported infrastructure and capacity-building projects.

    India also offered to share its expertise in health, pharmaceuticals, digital public infrastructure, the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), and skill development. PM Modi reiterated India’s commitment to voicing the concerns of the Global South and thanked Ghana for its continued support on this front. He also expressed gratitude to President Mahama for the care extended to the Indian community of around 15,000 people living in Ghana.

    Both leaders exchanged views on global and regional issues of mutual interest, including the need for reforms at the United Nations. The Prime Minister thanked President Mahama for his support and solidarity following the recent Pahalgam attack. The two sides agreed to work together to strengthen the global fight against terrorism.

    PM Modi also congratulated Ghana on its increasing international profile, including its current term on the UN Human Rights Council and the election of Ghana’s Foreign Minister as the Commonwealth Secretary-General. The leaders reiterated their commitment to democratic values, South-South cooperation, and a shared vision for sustainable development and global peace.

    Following the talks, India and Ghana exchanged four Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) covering Culture, Standards, Ayurveda and Traditional Medicine, and the establishment of a Joint Commission Mechanism to enhance engagement between the two countries’ Foreign Ministries.

    President Mahama hosted a State Banquet in honour of Prime Minister Modi. Thanking him for the warm hospitality, Prime Minister Modi invited President Mahama to visit India at a mutually convenient time.

  • PM Modi, Ghana President Agree to Deepen Ties, Sign Four MoUs During Historic Visit

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday met Ghanaian President Dr. John Dramani Mahama in Accra, marking the first state visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Ghana in three decades.

    PM Modi was received by President Mahama at Jubilee House, the official residence and office of the Ghanaian President. The two leaders held detailed discussions in restricted and delegation-level formats, agreeing to elevate the bilateral relationship to a Comprehensive Partnership.

    During the talks, both sides reaffirmed the longstanding and cordial ties between India and Ghana and explored ways to deepen cooperation in areas including trade and investment, agriculture, capacity building, digital technology, infrastructure, and people-to-people exchanges.

    PM Modi welcomed the steady growth in bilateral trade and the increasing presence of Indian investments in Ghana. The leaders also discussed steps to strengthen defence and security collaboration, as well as development cooperation through India-supported infrastructure and capacity-building projects.

    India also offered to share its expertise in health, pharmaceuticals, digital public infrastructure, the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), and skill development. Modi reiterated India’s commitment to voicing the concerns of the Global South and thanked Ghana for its continued support on this front. He also expressed gratitude to President Mahama for the care extended to the Indian community of around 15,000 people living in Ghana.

    Both leaders exchanged views on global and regional issues of mutual interest, including the need for reforms at the United Nations. Prime Minister Modi thanked President Mahama for his support and solidarity following the recent Pahalgam attack. The two sides agreed to work together to strengthen the global fight against terrorism.

    PM Modi also congratulated Ghana on its increasing international profile, including its current term on the UN Human Rights Council and the election of Ghana’s Foreign Minister as the Commonwealth Secretary-General. The leaders reiterated their commitment to democratic values, South-South cooperation, and a shared vision for sustainable development and global peace.

    Following the talks, India and Ghana exchanged four Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) covering Culture, Standards, Ayurveda and Traditional Medicine, and the establishment of a Joint Commission Mechanism to enhance engagement between the two countries’ Foreign Ministries.

    President Mahama hosted a State Banquet in honour of Prime Minister Modi. Thanking him for the warm hospitality, Prime Minister Modi invited President Mahama to visit India at a mutually convenient time.

  • PM Modi, Ghana President Agree to Deepen Ties, Sign Four MoUs During Historic Visit

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday met Ghanaian President Dr. John Dramani Mahama in Accra, marking the first state visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Ghana in three decades.

    PM Modi was received by President Mahama at Jubilee House, the official residence and office of the Ghanaian President. The two leaders held detailed discussions in restricted and delegation-level formats, agreeing to elevate the bilateral relationship to a Comprehensive Partnership.

    During the talks, both sides reaffirmed the longstanding and cordial ties between India and Ghana and explored ways to deepen cooperation in areas including trade and investment, agriculture, capacity building, digital technology, infrastructure, and people-to-people exchanges.

    PM Modi welcomed the steady growth in bilateral trade and the increasing presence of Indian investments in Ghana. The leaders also discussed steps to strengthen defence and security collaboration, as well as development cooperation through India-supported infrastructure and capacity-building projects.

    India also offered to share its expertise in health, pharmaceuticals, digital public infrastructure, the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), and skill development. Modi reiterated India’s commitment to voicing the concerns of the Global South and thanked Ghana for its continued support on this front. He also expressed gratitude to President Mahama for the care extended to the Indian community of around 15,000 people living in Ghana.

    Both leaders exchanged views on global and regional issues of mutual interest, including the need for reforms at the United Nations. Prime Minister Modi thanked President Mahama for his support and solidarity following the recent Pahalgam attack. The two sides agreed to work together to strengthen the global fight against terrorism.

    PM Modi also congratulated Ghana on its increasing international profile, including its current term on the UN Human Rights Council and the election of Ghana’s Foreign Minister as the Commonwealth Secretary-General. The leaders reiterated their commitment to democratic values, South-South cooperation, and a shared vision for sustainable development and global peace.

    Following the talks, India and Ghana exchanged four Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) covering Culture, Standards, Ayurveda and Traditional Medicine, and the establishment of a Joint Commission Mechanism to enhance engagement between the two countries’ Foreign Ministries.

    President Mahama hosted a State Banquet in honour of Prime Minister Modi. Thanking him for the warm hospitality, Prime Minister Modi invited President Mahama to visit India at a mutually convenient time.

  • MIL-OSI Africa: South Africa: Select Committee on Education Sends Deepest and Heartfelt Condolences to East London “Pens Down” Party Victims


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    The Chairperson of the Select Committee on Education, Sciences and the Creative Industries has learnt with shock of the deaths that occurred following a “pens-down” party in East London. The committee sends its deepest and heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and wishes a speedy recovery to the injured.

    Two people were reported dead and seven others were injured on the weekend following what seems to be a deliberate attack on party revelers in Nompumelelo Township, just outside East London. A group of local young men, suspected to be a gang, gatecrashed a “pens-down” party and started attacking those at the tavern.

    Mr Feni said the incident, the second in a short space of time in the same area, calls for parental guidance and serious reflection on situations in which learners have free access to alcohol. “It is sad that fatal alcohol-related incidents that often involve learners are becoming a common but worrying occurrence in the country. Social gatherings where learners are allowed to use alcohol should be criminalised. The violence that characterises our society is condemned,” the Chairperson said.

    “Society must not tire in condemning the pens-down culture. This is so reminiscent of the recent Enyobeni incident, which is subject of an inquiry, that resulted in the deaths of 21 learners in the same vicinity. We condemn these actions, whether learners were involved or not; law enforcement must also leave no stone unturned in this,” Mr Feni said.

    Mr Feni said the Eastern Cape Department of Education must assist and determine if any learner had been affected by the incident and provide the necessary support.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Qatar Condemns Statements by Israeli Minister of Justice Regarding Annexation of Occupied West Bank

    Source: Government of Qatar

    Doha, July 2, 2025

    The State of Qatar condemns the statements made by the Israeli Minister of Justice concerning the annexation of the occupied West Bank. Qatar considers these remarks an extension of the occupation’s settlement, colonial, and racist policies, and a blatant violation of international law and United Nations Security Council Resolution 2334.

    The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stresses the urgent need for solidarity from the international community to confront the occupation’s escalating and dangerous policies that threaten regional security. These include ongoing crimes in the West Bank, violations of religious sanctities, plans to Judaize Jerusalem, and restrictions on the entry of humanitarian aid to civilians in the Gaza Strip.

    The Ministry reiterates the State of Qatar’s firm and unwavering position in support of the Palestinian cause and the steadfastness of the brotherly Palestinian people. This stance is based on international legitimacy resolutions and the two-state solution, ensuring the establishment of an independent Palestinian state along the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Coons, Representative Chu lead bicameral letter demanding accountability for President Trump’s discriminatory travel ban

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) and Representative Judy Chu (D-Calif.) led 68 of their Democratic colleagues in sending a letter to President Donald Trump urging him to rescind his discriminatory travel ban that will keep families apart and devastate the U.S. economy. The members are demanding transparency into President Trump’s decision-making process and answers about how the travel ban will impact communities across the U.S.  

    In a letter addressed to President Trump, Secretary of Homeland Security Noem, Secretary of State Rubio, and Attorney General Bondi, the members outlined the disastrous consequences that President Trump’s travel ban will have on both families and the American economy.

    “The effects of President Trump’s discriminatory travel ban will be devastating. In the last year alone over 126,000 visas have been issued to nationals from just the twelve countries on the fully restricted list. These are individuals who are looking to come to the United States to reunite with family, support our economy, or otherwise enrich our country in innumerable ways,” wrote the members.

    During his first term, President Trump enacted extreme travel bans that disrupted thousands of lives and weakened our nation’s economy and global standing. On his first day in office, President Joe Biden rescinded these bans, but on June 4, 2025, President Trump enacted another sweeping, discriminatory travel ban.

    President Trump is imposing full restrictions on entry into the United States from nationals of Afghanistan, Chad, Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Myanmar, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen, and partial restrictions on entry from nationals of Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela—meaning individuals from these countries cannot come to the U.S. permanently or apply for certain visas. President Trump is also reportedly considering imposing travel restrictions on an additional 36 countries.

    “President Trump’s actions once again disgrace the founding principles of our nation and enshrine cruelty into our immigration system,” the members continue. “Additionally, this travel ban will harm our economy by depriving the United States of workers in key fields experiencing labor shortages like medicine and agriculture and further devastating our domestic tourism industry which is already expected to decline by $12.5 billion in 2025.”

    As a result, the members demand accountability and answers from the Trump administration. The members wrote, “Given these severe impacts, we condemn this proclamation and urge President Trump to rescind it immediately. We also seek transparency into President Trump’s decision-making process and, accordingly, request answers to the following questions by July 3rd, 2025.”

    Earlier this year, Senator Coons and Representative Chu, alongside 130 of their colleagues, reintroduced the National Origin-Based Antidiscrimination for Nonimmigrants (NO BAN) Act, which would prevent any president from implementing a discriminatory travel ban by strengthening the Immigration and Nationality Act to prohibit discrimination based on religion. The bill would also require that any suspension of entry into the United States be narrowly tailored, backed by credible evidence, and subject to appropriate consultation with Congress.

    You can read the full letter here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Dozens of Violent Offenders Arrested in Operation Mongolian Beef

    Source: US FBI

    Twenty-eight members of the Mongols motorcycle gang were taken into custody today in a joint operation between the FBI Jacksonville Division, Volusia Sheriff’s Office, and the Seventh Judicial Circuit State Attorney’s Office. In addition, arrest warrants have been issued for three additional Mongols gang members and their arrests are pending.

    The following individuals have been charged with aggravated rioting related to the gas station shooting that occurred in New Smyrna Beach during Bike Week on March 8, 2025:

    • Tyler Maxamillian Araya
    • Max Martin Bastuardo
    • Gary Robert Bedsaul (arrest still pending)
    • John Paul Bertrand
    • Christopher Allen Boyd
    • Peri John Butler
    • Pablo Jorge Cardoza Baptista
    • Jarrad Bryce Cawley
    • Francis G. Gomez
    • Daniel Hernandez
    • Sean Jeffery Hoholik
    • Trevor Frank Kopp (arrest still pending)
    • Kevin Koul
    • Matthew David Limperatos
    • Daniel William Macumber
    • Robert Brandon Maness
    • Shawn Anthony Marshall
    • Steve Patino-Rangel
    • Justin Ballard Perry
    • Chadwick Lee Price
    • Michael Angel Rodriguez
    • Mario Silvestri (arrest still pending)
    • Spencer Ryan Skipworth
    • Timothy Adam Stephens
    • Joseph Harry James Summerhill
    • Anthony Christopher Trimboli
    • Jacob Rolando Velez
    • Clinton Neal Walker (previously arrested and charged related to this shooting)
    • Douglas Ray White
    • Kash Williams
    • Gaige Alexander Wilson

    Aggravated rioting (Florida Statute 870.01 3) is when a person participates in a riot of 25 or more other people. It is a second-degree felony and punishable by up to 15 years in prison.

    The FBI and partners also executed 14 search warrants, including at the Mongols Clubhouse in Edgewater, Florida; four homes in Volusia County; three homes in Brevard County; two homes in Miami-Dade County; one home in Chesterfield County, Virginia; one home in Palm Beach County; and two homes in Polk County.

    “The FBI has made a commitment to all Americans that we will crush violent crime across the country. I’m proud to share that the FBI is delivering our commitment to you here in Florida. Operation Mongolian Beef is just one example of how the FBI brings our full force of investigative capabilities to assist our law enforcement partners and protect our communities. There is no doubt Volusia County and, in fact, the entire state of Florida is safer today with these violent offenders off the street,” said FBI Jacksonville Special Agent in Charge Jason Carley.

    This joint operation was carried out by the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office, FBI Jacksonville, FBI Tampa, FBI Miami, FBI Richmond, FBI Newark, FBI Columbia, and FBI Charlotte, with assistance from the State Attorney’s Office for the Seventh Judicial Circuit, U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida, Homeland Security Investigations, U.S Marshals, FBI Safe Streets Task Force, the sheriff’s offices of Brevard, Broward, Collier, Escambia, Hillsborough, Miami-Dade, Orange, Osceola, Palm Beach, Polk, and the police departments of Boca Raton, DeLand, Lakeland, New Smyrna Beach, Palm Bay, Orange City, Orlando, Rockledge, and Titusville.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation delivers Egypt’s address at the roundtable on “Revitalizing international development cooperation”


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    H.E. Dr. Rania Al-Mashat, Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation, delivered Egypt’s speech at the multilateral roundtable titled “Revitalizing international development cooperation”, on behalf of H.E. Dr. Mostafa Madbouly, Prime Minister of Egypt, during the 4th International Conference on Financing for Development held in Spain from June 29 to July 3, 2025.

    Dr. Rania Al-Mashat explained that the current period is witnessing a significant decline in progress toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, due to escalating geopolitical tensions and multiple ongoing crises, which has resulted in successive negative impacts, especially on developing and least developed countries, which bear the heaviest burden of the global debt crisis leading to a widening and deepening gap between developed and developing countries day by day.

    H.E.  added that the 4th International Conference on Financing for Development represents an important opportunity to reaffirm the existence of genuine political will to address the situation and to discuss effective proposals that would enhance concessional financing, support existing financial mechanisms, including Special Drawing Rights (SDRs), as well as develop new mechanisms to mobilize the required financing.

    The Minister of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation pointed out that among these mechanisms, development-linked debt instruments are an example of financial instruments that can contribute to stimulate funding linked to development priorities, affirming the importance of donor countries’ commitment to their pledges to developing countries, adding that the challenges faced by developing countries are also beginning to affect many middle-income countries, which face the risk of undermine the progress they have achieved due to the worsening global debt situation.

    Al-Mashat emphasized the need to focus on priority sectors, such as health and education, while making concerted efforts to alleviate debt burdens, which can be achieved by implementing sustainable mechanisms that contribute to supporting developing countries in a integrated manner.

    In conclusion of her speech, H.E. stated that the conversation should not be limited to increasing the volume of financing alone, but should also focus on capacity building of countries, so that they are able to work effectively to achieve their national priorities and implementing their development strategies independently and sustainably, expressing her hope that the conference would come out with concrete recommendations capable of making a real, positive impact in advancing the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation – Egypt.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Prime Minister arrives in Ghana on a State Visit


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    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi arrived today in Accra on his State Visit to Ghana. In a special gesture, on arrival at the airport, Prime Minister was received by the President of Ghana, H.E. John Dramani Mahama and accorded a ceremonial welcome. This gesture is reflective of the strong and historic bonds of friendship between the two nations.

    2. Prime Minister’s visit to Ghana is the first such visit in the last three decades. This historic visit would further deepen the partnership between India and Ghana, and underscores India’s commitment to strengthening its engagement with Africa and Global South Partners.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of External Affairs – Government of India.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Press Release on the recent development in Mali


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    The Ministry of External Affairs expresses its deep concern regarding the abduction of three Indian nationals employed at the Diamond Cement Factory in Kayes, Republic of Mali. The incident occurred on 1st July 2025, when a group of armed assailants carried out a coordinated attack at the factory premises and forcibly took three (03) Indian nationals as hostages.

    2. It has come to the knowledge of the Government of India that many military and government installations at multiple locations of western and central Mali were attacked by terrorists on 01 July 2025.

    3. The Embassy of India in Bamako is in close and constant communication with the relevant authorities of the Government of Mali, local law enforcement agencies, as well as the management of Diamond Cement Factory. The Mission is also in touch with the family members of the abducted Indian nationals.

    4. The Government of India unequivocally condemns this deplorable act of violence and calls upon the Government of the Republic of Mali to take all necessary measures to secure the safe and expeditious release of the abducted Indian nationals. Senior officials of the Ministry are closely monitoring the evolving situation and remain engaged at various levels to facilitate safe and early release of Indian Nationals.

    5. The safety, security and welfare of Indian nationals abroad remains a matter of utmost priority for the Government of India. The Ministry advises all Indian citizens currently residing in Mali to exercise utmost caution, remain vigilant and stay in close contact with the Embassy of India in Bamako for regular updates and necessary assistance.

    6. The Ministry shall continue to extend all possible support and remains committed to ensuring the safe return of the abducted Indian nationals at the earliest.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of External Affairs – Government of India.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: European Union Integrated Border Management Assistance Mission in Libya Received New Mandate until June 2027


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    On 26 June, the Council of the European Union adopted a Decision to extend the mandate of the European Union Integrated Border Management Assistance Mission in Libya (EUBAM Libya) for another two years, from 1 July 2025 until 30 June 2027. The Mission has been allocated a budget of nearly €52 million for this period.

    Under its extended mandate, EUBAM Libya will continue supporting Libyan authorities in enhancing border management and combating cross-border crime, including human trafficking and migrant smuggling. As a civilian, non-executive mission, EUBAM Libya provides tailored technical advice, capacity building, and specialised training to Libyan law enforcement institutions. 

    EUBAM Libya’s principal counterparts include the Ministry of Interior and the Ministry of Defence, among others. The coordination of Mission activities with Libyan authorities is led by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.

    The Mission was established in 2013, based on the invitation of State of Libya, to support the Libyan authorities to develop capacity for enhancing the security of land, sea and air borders.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of EU Border Assistance Mission in Libya (EUBAM).

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: South Africa: Communications Committee Puts Conditions to the Approval of Government Communications and Information Systems (GCIS) Budget


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    The Portfolio Committee on Communications and Digital Technologies has put conditions on the adoption of its budget vote report on the Government Communications and Information Systems (GCIS).

    The committee’s conditions have been forwarded to the Standing Committee on Appropriations in terms of section 10(5) of the Money Bills Amendment Procedure and Related Matters Act 9 of 2009.

    This decision was taken on the basis that the committee felt that the 2025-2030 strategic and 2025/26 annual performance plans of the GCIS as well as the Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA) lacked clarity and measurable targets.

    The committee also believes that the GCIS’ five-year strategic plan is misaligned to the government’s Medium-Term Development Priorities. The strategy refers to the need to move to evidence-based communication without outlining what impact it will have on the country’s drive for inclusive economic growth and job creation, and how such will be measured.

    The committee stands against a spray-and-pray approach to development communication which has no attendant measurable targets and cogent monitoring and evaluation framework.

    As part of its conditions to the Minister in the Presidency, the committee wants GCIS to, among others, come up with a policy or legislative instrument that is going to ensure alignment, coherence and results-based measurement framework within government communication system.

    The Chairperson of the committee, Ms Khusela Sangoni Diko, said: “The committee is recommending approval of this budget with a proviso that within the course of twelve months there is legislative reform to ensure that there is a policy instrument that guides government communications.”

    Ms Diko further said that GCIS needs to fast-track reform on the laws that govern MDDA, Brand South Africa and government media spent. The committee also wants GCIS to provide quarterly performance reports on the implementation of the government communication policy framework.

    These conditions extend to GCIS’ entity, the MDDA, which must provide clarity on how the it is going to be moving community radio stations to self-transmission. The committee also called on MDDA to provide a fundraising strategy with clear measurable targets.

    The GCIS budget will be debated under vote 4 on Friday, 4 July 2025, in a mini plenary of the National Assembly at the Good Hope Chamber from 13:00 to 15:00

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Statement by the Chairperson of the African Union Commission on the African Union Stabilization Support Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) Helicopter Crash in Somalia


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    The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf expresses his profound sorrow at the tragic loss of five peacekeepers following the crash of an AUSSOM helicopter operated by the Ugandan contingent in Mogadishu, Somalia, on 2 July 2025.

    The Chairperson conveys his deepest condolences to the families of the fallen personnel, to the Government and people of the Republic of Uganda, and to the entire AUSSOM family. He wishes a swift and full recovery to all those injured, including civilians.

    Mr. Youssouf affirms the African Union’s commitment to ensuring that the sacrifice of these brave peacekeepers continues to advance the cause of peace, stability, and security in Somalia.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Union (AU).

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Lubero: United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO) supports military justice in trials for sexual violence


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    Mobile court hearings conducted by the Butembo Military Court began on Thursday, 26 June, in the town of Lubero, North Kivu. Ninety-two defendants, including 45 Congolese soldiers and 47 civilians, are facing charges of rape, sexual violence, child abduction, and extortion. The crimes were committed between 2021 and 2024. These hearings, expected to last around ten days, are being held with the technical, logistical and financial support of MONUSCO’s Justice Support Section.

    The trials take place in a context of heightened militarization in this area of North Kivu, linked to Sukola I operations against armed groups.Judicial sources report that the prolonged interaction between civilians and military personnel has contributed to a rise in sexual violence, particularly involving minors.

    Formally requested by the Butembo Military Court, MONUSCO is supporting the initiative to ensure justice for victims, combat impunity and bring the judiciary closer to communities.These mobile hearings aim to enable victims to participate in the legal process, reduce prolonged pretrial detention at the Butembo urban prison, and deter future perpetrators of similar crimes.

    This initiative is part of MONUSCO’s strategic plan, which seeks to reduce violence, protect civilians and reinforce the rule of law.MONUSCO is providing technical and logistical support, including the transportation of trial participants, coordination of hearings and legal monitoring.

    The North Kivu Women’s League welcomed the initiative. Its coordinator, Hélène Makule, called it a step forward, while urging for strict enforcement of court rulings. “We want the perpetrators to be punished in accordance with the law. Too often, we are told they are in prison, but they remain at large, which puts human rights defenders at risk.” she said. This partnership between the Congolese military justice system and MONUSCO represents a key pillar in the fight against impunity.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Mission de l’Organisation des Nations unies en République démocratique du Congo (MONUSCO).

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Zimbabwe: Arbitrary detention of journalist an assault on freedom of expression

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Responding to the arrest and detention of Faith Zaba, editor of the weekly Zimbabwe Independent, on allegations of undermining the authority of or insulting the country’s President Emmerson Mnangagwa, Khanyo Farisè, Amnesty International’s Senior Researcher in East and Southern Africa, said:

    “Amnesty International strongly condemns the arrest and detention of Faith Zaba for exercising her constitutionally guaranteed rights as a journalist. This is an assault on the right to freedom of expression and press freedom.

    “Zimbabwean authorities must immediately release Faith Zaba and drop all charges against her as she is detained simply for doing her job. Journalism is not a crime. Authorities must allow journalists to carry out their work freely, safely and without fear of harassment, intimidation or reprisals.

    “The arrest of journalists such as Zaba, and her colleague Blessed Mhlanga who was arbitrarily detained earlier this year simply for doing their job, are part of an ongoing pattern in which the criminal justice system is being misused to target independent media voices to instill fear and curb press freedom.

    Zimbabwean authorities must immediately release Faith Zaba and drop all charges against her as she is detained simply for doing her job. Journalism is not a crime. Authorities must allow journalists to carry out their work freely, safely and without fear of harassment, intimidation or reprisals.

    Khanyo Farisè, Amnesty International’s Senior Researcher in East and Southern Africa

    “These tactics pose a significant threat to a free media in Zimbabwe and the public’s right to information. Authorities must end the growing restriction on civic space in the country and allow everyone to freely exercise their human rights.”

    The arrest of journalists such as Zaba, and her colleague Blessed Mhlanga who was arbitrarily detained earlier this year simply for doing their job, are part of an ongoing pattern in which the criminal justice system is being misused to target independent media voices to instill fear and curb press freedom.

    Khanyo Farisè,

    Background

    Faith Zaba was arrested on 1 July and detained in Harare on allegations of undermining the authority of or insulting the President. According to her lawyer, Chris Mhike, the charge relates to a satirical article published in the weekly’s Muckraker column last Friday. Her bail application has been postponed to 3 July, pending a review of her medical record due to her ill health. Zaba’s arrest comes after the recent arrest and lengthy detention of another journalist from the same outlet, Alpha Media House’s head of news at HSTV, Blessed Mhlanga, who spent 72 days in pretrial detention.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Cyprus, Palestine, Yemen & other topics – Daily Press Briefing (2 July 2025) | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (video statements)

    Noon Briefing by Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.

    ———————————

    Highlights:
    Cyprus
    Occupied Palestinian Territory
    Yemen
    Haiti
    South Sudan

    ———————————
    CYPRUS
    Following the informal meeting on Cyprus in a broader format that was held in Geneva on 17-18 March of this year, the Secretary-General will convene on 16 and 17 July, here at UN Headquarters, the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot leaders, as well as representatives of the guarantor powers of Greece, Türkiye and the United Kingdom, for another informal meeting on Cyprus.
    The meeting will provide an opportunity to continue the dialogue and exchange views on the progress made since March. 

    OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORY
    Turning to the increasingly dire situation in Gaza, the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs says that overnight, Israeli authorities issued a new displacement order for two neighbourhoods in Khan Younis, following reported Palestinian rocket fire. Up to 80,000 people are estimated to be living in these neighourhoods. Approximately 85 per cent of Gaza’s territory is currently either under displacement orders or located within militarized zones – which is severely hampering people’s access to essential humanitarian support and the ability of aid workers to reach those in need.
    Our colleagues working on water, sanitation and hygiene also tell us that Al Satar – a key water reservoir – has become inaccessible as a result of the order. The facility serves as the main water distribution hub for Khan Younis and a critical supply point for water coming through the Israeli pipeline in the area.
    Any damage to the reservoir could lead to a collapse of the city’s water distribution system, with grave humanitarian consequences.
    OCHA warns that these displacement orders continue to strain vital services and push people into increasingly smaller swaths of Gaza’s territory. Since the breakdown of the ceasefire in March and as of yesterday, some 714,000 people have been forcibly displaced once more across Gaza, with nearly 29,000 displaced in just 24 hours between Sunday and Monday.
    Many existing shelters are severely overcrowded, with poor hygiene conditions – posing severe risks for public health. Our partners working on health, water, sanitation and hygiene report that across Gaza, rates of acute watery diarrhea have reached 39 per cent among patients receiving health consultations.
    The increase is being driven by insufficient clean drinking and domestic water reaching shelters, worsening the dire hygiene and sanitation conditions. The governorates of Gaza and Khan Younis have the worst levels of acute watery diarrhea, due to severe overcrowding in sites and shelters.
    You will recall that no shelter assistance has entered Gaza in four months, despite the hundreds of thousands of newly displaced people. Our shelter partners say that 97 per cent of the sites surveyed reported displaced people sleeping in the open. OCHA reiterates that an unrestricted flow of supplies through multiple crossing points over a sustained period of time is critical to address people’s needs and prevent the already desperate situation from worsening.
    Meanwhile, the depletion of fuel stocks continues to wreak havoc on aid operations, constraining the UN and our humanitarian partners’ ability to respond.
    Yet again today, an attempt to deliver some of the remaining fuel stocks to the north was denied by Israeli authorities.
    The denial follows a successful delivery yesterday of diesel from the World Health Organization’s remaining stock to Al Shifa Hospital in Gaza City to prevent further shutdown of critical services. WHO says the facility is overwhelmed and severely under-resourced. Its beds are full, and patients are once again being treated on the floor.
    Our partners working on emergency telecommunications stress that unless fuel stocks are replenished immediately, Gaza could face a complete communications blackout, severely hindering humanitarian access and coordination, and preventing affected communities from receiving critical information.
    Critical water, sanitation, hygiene and healthcare facilities have already begun shutting down in some areas, including hospital equipment and services, water trucking, and water and sewage pumps. If the fuel crisis isn’t addressed soon, humanitarian responders could be left without the systems and tools necessary to operate safely, manage logistics and distribute humanitarian assistance. This would endanger aid workers and escalate an already dire humanitarian crisis.

    Full Highlights:
    https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=02%20July%202025

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HWsQI3oYzuM

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Cyprus, Palestine, Yemen & other topics – Daily Press Briefing (2 July 2025) | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (video statements)

    Noon Briefing by Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.

    ———————————

    Highlights:
    Cyprus
    Occupied Palestinian Territory
    Yemen
    Haiti
    South Sudan

    ———————————
    CYPRUS
    Following the informal meeting on Cyprus in a broader format that was held in Geneva on 17-18 March of this year, the Secretary-General will convene on 16 and 17 July, here at UN Headquarters, the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot leaders, as well as representatives of the guarantor powers of Greece, Türkiye and the United Kingdom, for another informal meeting on Cyprus.
    The meeting will provide an opportunity to continue the dialogue and exchange views on the progress made since March. 

    OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORY
    Turning to the increasingly dire situation in Gaza, the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs says that overnight, Israeli authorities issued a new displacement order for two neighbourhoods in Khan Younis, following reported Palestinian rocket fire. Up to 80,000 people are estimated to be living in these neighourhoods. Approximately 85 per cent of Gaza’s territory is currently either under displacement orders or located within militarized zones – which is severely hampering people’s access to essential humanitarian support and the ability of aid workers to reach those in need.
    Our colleagues working on water, sanitation and hygiene also tell us that Al Satar – a key water reservoir – has become inaccessible as a result of the order. The facility serves as the main water distribution hub for Khan Younis and a critical supply point for water coming through the Israeli pipeline in the area.
    Any damage to the reservoir could lead to a collapse of the city’s water distribution system, with grave humanitarian consequences.
    OCHA warns that these displacement orders continue to strain vital services and push people into increasingly smaller swaths of Gaza’s territory. Since the breakdown of the ceasefire in March and as of yesterday, some 714,000 people have been forcibly displaced once more across Gaza, with nearly 29,000 displaced in just 24 hours between Sunday and Monday.
    Many existing shelters are severely overcrowded, with poor hygiene conditions – posing severe risks for public health. Our partners working on health, water, sanitation and hygiene report that across Gaza, rates of acute watery diarrhea have reached 39 per cent among patients receiving health consultations.
    The increase is being driven by insufficient clean drinking and domestic water reaching shelters, worsening the dire hygiene and sanitation conditions. The governorates of Gaza and Khan Younis have the worst levels of acute watery diarrhea, due to severe overcrowding in sites and shelters.
    You will recall that no shelter assistance has entered Gaza in four months, despite the hundreds of thousands of newly displaced people. Our shelter partners say that 97 per cent of the sites surveyed reported displaced people sleeping in the open. OCHA reiterates that an unrestricted flow of supplies through multiple crossing points over a sustained period of time is critical to address people’s needs and prevent the already desperate situation from worsening.
    Meanwhile, the depletion of fuel stocks continues to wreak havoc on aid operations, constraining the UN and our humanitarian partners’ ability to respond.
    Yet again today, an attempt to deliver some of the remaining fuel stocks to the north was denied by Israeli authorities.
    The denial follows a successful delivery yesterday of diesel from the World Health Organization’s remaining stock to Al Shifa Hospital in Gaza City to prevent further shutdown of critical services. WHO says the facility is overwhelmed and severely under-resourced. Its beds are full, and patients are once again being treated on the floor.
    Our partners working on emergency telecommunications stress that unless fuel stocks are replenished immediately, Gaza could face a complete communications blackout, severely hindering humanitarian access and coordination, and preventing affected communities from receiving critical information.
    Critical water, sanitation, hygiene and healthcare facilities have already begun shutting down in some areas, including hospital equipment and services, water trucking, and water and sewage pumps. If the fuel crisis isn’t addressed soon, humanitarian responders could be left without the systems and tools necessary to operate safely, manage logistics and distribute humanitarian assistance. This would endanger aid workers and escalate an already dire humanitarian crisis.

    Full Highlights:
    https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=02%20July%202025

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HWsQI3oYzuM

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MEA expresses concern over abduction of three Indians in Mali

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Ministry of External Affairs expressed its concern over the abduction of three Indian nationals employed at the Diamond Cement Factory in Kayes, Republic of Mali.

    The incident occurred on July 1 when a group of armed assailants carried out a coordinated attack at the factory premises and forcibly took three Indian nationals as hostages, according to the MEA.

    In a statement issued on Wednesday, the ministry said the Indian Embassy in Bamako is in close and constant touch with Malian authorities, local law enforcement agencies, and the management of the cement factory. Officials have also reached out to the families of the abducted workers.

    “The Government of India unequivocally condemns this deplorable act of violence and calls upon the Government of the Republic of Mali to take all necessary measures to secure the safe and expeditious release of the abducted Indian nationals,” the MEA said.

    Senior officials are said to be monitoring the situation closely and are coordinating efforts at various levels to ensure the safe return of the hostages.

    Reiterating that the safety and welfare of Indian nationals abroad remains a top priority, the ministry has advised all Indians residing in Mali to exercise utmost caution, remain vigilant, and stay in close contact with the Embassy in Bamako for updates and assistance.

    “The Ministry shall continue to extend all possible support and remains committed to ensuring the safe return of the abducted Indian nationals at the earliest,” the statement added.

  • MEA expresses concern over abduction of three Indians in Mali

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Ministry of External Affairs expressed its concern over the abduction of three Indian nationals employed at the Diamond Cement Factory in Kayes, Republic of Mali.

    The incident occurred on July 1 when a group of armed assailants carried out a coordinated attack at the factory premises and forcibly took three Indian nationals as hostages, according to the MEA.

    In a statement issued on Wednesday, the ministry said the Indian Embassy in Bamako is in close and constant touch with Malian authorities, local law enforcement agencies, and the management of the cement factory. Officials have also reached out to the families of the abducted workers.

    “The Government of India unequivocally condemns this deplorable act of violence and calls upon the Government of the Republic of Mali to take all necessary measures to secure the safe and expeditious release of the abducted Indian nationals,” the MEA said.

    Senior officials are said to be monitoring the situation closely and are coordinating efforts at various levels to ensure the safe return of the hostages.

    Reiterating that the safety and welfare of Indian nationals abroad remains a top priority, the ministry has advised all Indians residing in Mali to exercise utmost caution, remain vigilant, and stay in close contact with the Embassy in Bamako for updates and assistance.

    “The Ministry shall continue to extend all possible support and remains committed to ensuring the safe return of the abducted Indian nationals at the earliest,” the statement added.

  • MIL-OSI Europe: The EIB reinforces global partnerships to boost food security and promote rural development, fight hunger and poverty

    Source: European Investment Bank

    • As part of its strategic cooperation with UN agencies, the EIB formalises its partnership with the World Food Programme, paving the way for the implementation of the first EIB-backed climate risk insurance scheme and enhancing EIB’s impact in fragile contexts.
    • The EIB extends its partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations to strengthen sustainable agriculture in sub-Saharan Africa.
    • Under the Seville Platform for Action, EIB joins the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty in two initiatives to fast-track finance for ending hunger, poverty and climate risk.

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) announced new partnerships and commitments to promote food security and sustainable agriculture around the world and to combat hunger and poverty and. These steps were taken during the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development (FfD4) in Seville, Spain.

    The EIB Group is supporting food security and sustainable agriculture across the globe. These partnerships and initiatives with UN institutions and the Global Alliance against hunger and poverty will improve and expand our support to those who need it most,” said EIB Vice-President Ambroise Fayolle. “By leveraging synergies and sharing best practices, we aim to enhance food security and nutrition, empower farmers around the world—particularly women—, support adaptation to climate change, and transform agriculture into a more resilient and sustainable sector.”

    Partnership with World Food Programme

    The EIB formalised a partnership with the World Food Programme (WFP) through a MoU that outlines key areas of cooperation, including climate resilience, food security and nutrition, critical agricultural infrastructure, innovative financing instruments, and inclusive access to finance for agricultural SMEs and smallholder farmers. This partnership has a global scope, with a focus on sub-Saharan Africa and fragile countries.

    In addition, the EIB and WFP have signed a Letter of Understanding, enabling the EIB to directly finance WFP operations and benefit from its advisory and implementation expertise.

    The first joint initiative will be a climate-risk insurance project in Ethiopia. This complements an existing €110 million EIB credit line to the Development Bank of Ethiopia aimed at improving rural access to finance – especially for small-scale farmers and women – and strengthening rural financial institutions.

    “This partnership between the European Investment Bank and the World Food Programme reflects our shared commitment to investing in sustainable solutions that tackle the root causes of hunger, build resilience, and support communities most vulnerable to the impacts of conflict, climate and economic shocks,” said Rania Dagash-Kamara, Assistant Executive Director for Partnerships and Innovation at WFP.

    Extension of memorandum of understanding with FAO

    The EIB and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) renewed their joint commitment to promoting sustainable agriculture in sub-Saharan Africa by extending their Memorandum of Understanding – originally signed in 2015 and renewed in 2020 – until 2030.  As part of this strengthened collaboration, the EIB has provided €1.4 million to the FAO for technical assistance in identifying and preparing projects that support sustainable and climate-resilient agriculture.

    This collaboration has already facilitated the preparation of complex operations in Ethiopia and Liberia, including sector studies, feasibility assessments, and evaluations of project promoters’ implementation capacities.

    By leveraging the FAO’s expertise, the EIB aims to expand its agrifood and bioeconomy lending pipeline, contributing to improved food security, increased farmer incomes, women’s empowerment and job creation.

    A particular focus will be on supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in agriculture re and smallholder farmers through financial intermediaries while engaging the public and private sectors in developing agrifood value chains.

    “FAO, through its Investment Centre, is enthusiastic about growing its collaboration with the European Investment Bank (EIB) by signing this MoU, first established in 2015 and regularly renewed as a cornerstone of our shared commitment, said Mohamed Manssouri, Director of the FAO Investment Centre. “Within this framework, the latest agreement signed in 2023 is achieving great results for beneficiary countries, with two approved operations unlocking a EUR 130 million credit line to support local banks lending to smallholders and agri-SMEs across Sub-Saharan Africa, and more investments are under preparation. This partnership directly supports FAO’s vision for Better Production, Better Nutrition, a Better Environment and a Better Life, leaving no one behind,” he added.

    Global Alliance against Hunger and Poverty

    In 2024, the EIB joined other financial institutions in the Group of 20 global alliance against hunger and poverty led by Brazil.  In line with its mission to eradicate hunger and extreme poverty, the EIB committed to supporting the alliance’s integrated, multi-level approach combining social protection with access to essential services in education, health, finance and agriculture.

    At FfD4, the EIB joined two initiatives led by the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty through the Seville Action Platform to fast-track finance for ending hunger, poverty and climate risk. These initiatives focus on building better-integrated finance for sustainable development goals (SDGs) 1 and 2 and on scaling up finance for climate-resilient social protection and smallholder agriculture. They aim to accelerate the implementation of large-scale national programs by streamlining financial flows from multiple donors and connecting them directly to on-the-ground needs.

    Background information

    EIB

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. It finances investments contributing to EU policy goals. EIB Global carries out the EIB’s operations outside the EU. As a key partner in the EU’s Global Gateway, the EIB aims to support at least €100 billion of investments by 2028, one third of the strategy’s target. Over the 2014–2023 period, EIB lending outside the EU totalled more than €70 billion, with a significant share supporting infrastructure, climate, and food security. With offices across the world, EIB Global is close to local people, firms and institutions, and fosters strong Team Europe partnerships with development finance institutions.

    FAO

    The FAO Investment Centre works to deliver investment and finance solutions that promote inclusive economic growth, better diets and nutrition, greater equity and climate resilience. The Centre provides a full suite of investment support services to FAO Member states, working in over 120 countries. It partners with governments, national and international financing institutions, the private sector, research institutions, academia and producer organizations to help countries achieve lasting impact at scale.

    WFP

    The 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.

    The Global Alliance against Hunger and Poverty

    The Global Alliance against Hunger and Poverty was established in 2024 as a proposal from the Brazilian presidency of the G20 to support and accelerate efforts to eradicate hunger and poverty (Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 1 and 2), while reducing inequalities (SDG 10). The core of the Alliance is the Policy Basket, a menu of rigorously evaluated policy instruments, ensuring that donor investments are directed toward cost effective, high-impact initiatives. Acting as a neutral facilitator, the Alliance builds partnerships and mobilizes financial and knowledge resources to implement these policy instruments.  

    In an innovative approach, the Alliance reduces transaction costs and avoids duplication of efforts by leveraging a unified database, streamlining the identification of knowledge and funding needs and opportunities. The Alliance also differentiates itself by favoring   the pooling of resources and expertise, enabling greater impact and efficiency compared to fragmented individual efforts. This allows the implementation of comprehensive, multisectoral strategies.  

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the Commission delegated regulation of 10 June 2025 amending Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1675 to add Algeria, Angola, Côte d’Ivoire, Kenya, Laos, Lebanon, Monaco, Namibia, Nepal and Venezuela to the list of high-risk third countries which have provided a written high-level political commitment to address the identified deficiencies and have developed an action plan with the FATF, and to remove Barbados, Gibraltar, Jamaica, Panama, the Philippines, Senegal, Uganda and the United Arab Emirates from that list – B10-0311/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    B10‑0311/2025

    European Parliament resolution on the Commission delegated regulation of 10 June 2025 amending Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1675 to add Algeria, Angola, Côte d’Ivoire, Kenya, Laos, Lebanon, Monaco, Namibia, Nepal and Venezuela to the list of high-risk third countries which have provided a written high-level political commitment to address the identified deficiencies and have developed an action plan with the FATF, and to remove Barbados, Gibraltar, Jamaica, Panama, the Philippines, Senegal, Uganda and the United Arab Emirates from that list

    (C(2025)3815) – 2025/2740(DEA))

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to the Commission delegated regulation (C(2025)3815),

    – having regard to Article 290 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,

    – having regard to Directive (EU) 2015/849 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 May 2015 on the prevention of the use of the financial system for the purpose of money laundering or terrorist financing, amending Regulation (EU) No 648/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council, and repealing Directive 2005/60/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council and Commission Directive 2006/70/EC[1], and in particular Article 9(2) and Article 64(5) thereof,

    – having regard to Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1675 of 14 July 2016 supplementing Directive (EU) 2015/849 of the European Parliament and of the Council by identifying high-risk third countries with strategic deficiencies[2], in particular the Annex thereto,

    – having regard to Rule 114(3) of its Rules of Procedure,

    A. whereas the Commission presents the delegated regulation as an omnibus package to secure its passage, thereby including several countries and territories that deserve separate parliamentary scrutiny;

    B. whereas the addition to the list of several jurisdictions with strategic deficiencies in their anti-money laundering / countering the financing of terrorism (AML/CFT) regimes, including Algeria and the criminal Venezuelan narco-regime, should not be used as a strategy to put pressure on Parliament to accept deals with the colony of Gibraltar;

    C. whereas Gibraltar is widely recognised as an offshore financial centre with a favourable tax regime and financial regulation that has raised concerns for its use for illicit financial activities that result in a severe distortion of the European Economic Area (EEA);

    D. whereas transparency and international cooperation are critical to the integrity of the global financial system and to combating money laundering, tax evasion and terrorist financing;

    E. whereas concerns persist about financial opacity and the facilitation of illicit financial activities in Gibraltar that are affecting the whole EEA, in particular surrounding municipalities;

    F. whereas Articles 61 and 62 of Directive (EU) 2015/849 highlight the need to identify and assess the risks of money laundering and terrorist financing in different financial sectors and activities;

    G. whereas Gibraltar is listed as a non-cooperative jurisdiction in some Member States;

    1. Objects to the Commission delegated regulation;

    2. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Commission and to notify it that the delegated regulation cannot enter into force;

    3. Considers that the Commission delegated regulation:

    (a) positively addresses the risks in the cases of Algeria, Angola, Côte d’Ivoire, Kenya, Laos, Lebanon, Monaco, Namibia, Nepal and Venezuela;

    (b) does not properly take into account the threats to the international financial system in the case of Gibraltar, in accordance with the criteria set out in Directive (EU) 2015/849 and other relevant regulations;

    (c) does not take into account the colony’s effective compliance with international standards against money laundering, tax evasion and terrorist financing, in accordance with the relevant provisions of Directive (EU) 2015/849;

    (d) does not encourage Gibraltar’s current government to take the necessary measures to protect the integrity of the global financial system and to prevent illicit financial activities, in accordance with the principles and objectives set out in the current legislation;

    (e) does not take into account the Spanish negotiating position for the long-term on the decolonisation procedure;

    4. Calls on the Commission to submit a new delegated act as soon as possible which does not delete Gibraltar from the table in point I of the Annex to Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1675;

    5. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council and to the governments and parliaments of the Member States.

     

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: RECOMMENDATION FOR A DECISION to raise no objections to Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2025/530 of 12 June 2025 as regards its date of application – B10-0302/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    B10‑0302/2025

    Draft European Parliament decision to raise no objections to Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2025/530 of 12 June 2025 as regards its date of application

    (C(2025)03819 – 2025/2766(DEA))

    The European Parliament,

     having regard to the Commission delegated regulation (C(2025)03819),

    – having regard to the Commission’s letter of 6 June 2025 asking Parliament to declare that it will raise no objections to the delegated regulation,

    – having regard to the letter from the Committee on International Trade to the Chair of the Conference of Committee Chairs of 25 June 2025,

    – having regard to Article 290 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,

    – having regard to Council Regulation (EC) No 2173/2005 of 20 December 2005 on the establishment of a FLEGT licensing scheme for imports of timber into the European Community[1], and in particular Article 10(1) and (3) and Article 11a(5) thereof,

    – having regard to Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2025/530[2],

    – having regard to Rule 114(6) of its Rules of Procedure,

    – having regard to the recommendation for a decision of the Committee on International Trade,

    A. whereas Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2025/530 includes the Republic of Ghana and its Timber Industry Development Division in the list in Annex I to Regulation (EC) No 2173/2005, and the list of products covered by the Forest Law Enforcement, Governance and Trade (FLEGT) licensing scheme in Annex III to that Regulation; whereas the trade in timber between the Union and Ghana is regulated by Voluntary Partnership Agreement between the European Community and the Republic of Ghana on forest law enforcement, governance and trade in timber products into the Community (Agreement)[3]; whereas Delegated Regulation (EU) 2025/530 is to apply from 8 July 2025;

    B. whereas preparations for issuing FLEGT licences are taking longer than expected and Ghana will start issuing FLEGT licences on 30 June 2025 at the earliest; whereas shipments from Ghana take between two and eight weeks to reach the Union, causing a risk that shipments leaving Ghana before 30 June 2025 but reaching the Union after 8 July 2025 will not be accompanied by a FLEGT licence and will thus not be able to enter the Union;

    C. whereas there is a significant risk that timber shipments arriving in the Union as from 8 July 2025 may not be covered by a FLEGT licence as they may have been shipped before Ghana starts issuing FLEGT licences; whereas this could generate trade disruption, undermine the credibility of the Agreement as a trade facilitating instrument and have a negative impact on economic operators both in Ghana and in the Union;

    D. whereas the date from which Delegated Regulation (EU) 2025/530 applies should be adapted, in order to allow sufficient time for shipments leaving Ghana before 30 June 2025 to reach the Union without the obligation to be covered by a FLEGT licence;

    E. whereas Delegated Regulation (EU) 2025/530 should therefore be amended accordingly;

    1. Declares that it has no objections to the delegated regulation;

    2. Instructs its President to forward this decision to the Council and the Commission.

     

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: RECOMMENDATION FOR A DECISION to raise no objections to Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2025/530 of 12 June 2025 as regards its date of application – B10-0302/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    B10‑0302/2025

    Draft European Parliament decision to raise no objections to Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2025/530 of 12 June 2025 as regards its date of application

    (C(2025)03819 – 2025/2766(DEA))

    The European Parliament,

     having regard to the Commission delegated regulation (C(2025)03819),

    – having regard to the Commission’s letter of 6 June 2025 asking Parliament to declare that it will raise no objections to the delegated regulation,

    – having regard to the letter from the Committee on International Trade to the Chair of the Conference of Committee Chairs of 25 June 2025,

    – having regard to Article 290 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,

    – having regard to Council Regulation (EC) No 2173/2005 of 20 December 2005 on the establishment of a FLEGT licensing scheme for imports of timber into the European Community[1], and in particular Article 10(1) and (3) and Article 11a(5) thereof,

    – having regard to Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2025/530[2],

    – having regard to Rule 114(6) of its Rules of Procedure,

    – having regard to the recommendation for a decision of the Committee on International Trade,

    A. whereas Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2025/530 includes the Republic of Ghana and its Timber Industry Development Division in the list in Annex I to Regulation (EC) No 2173/2005, and the list of products covered by the Forest Law Enforcement, Governance and Trade (FLEGT) licensing scheme in Annex III to that Regulation; whereas the trade in timber between the Union and Ghana is regulated by Voluntary Partnership Agreement between the European Community and the Republic of Ghana on forest law enforcement, governance and trade in timber products into the Community (Agreement)[3]; whereas Delegated Regulation (EU) 2025/530 is to apply from 8 July 2025;

    B. whereas preparations for issuing FLEGT licences are taking longer than expected and Ghana will start issuing FLEGT licences on 30 June 2025 at the earliest; whereas shipments from Ghana take between two and eight weeks to reach the Union, causing a risk that shipments leaving Ghana before 30 June 2025 but reaching the Union after 8 July 2025 will not be accompanied by a FLEGT licence and will thus not be able to enter the Union;

    C. whereas there is a significant risk that timber shipments arriving in the Union as from 8 July 2025 may not be covered by a FLEGT licence as they may have been shipped before Ghana starts issuing FLEGT licences; whereas this could generate trade disruption, undermine the credibility of the Agreement as a trade facilitating instrument and have a negative impact on economic operators both in Ghana and in the Union;

    D. whereas the date from which Delegated Regulation (EU) 2025/530 applies should be adapted, in order to allow sufficient time for shipments leaving Ghana before 30 June 2025 to reach the Union without the obligation to be covered by a FLEGT licence;

    E. whereas Delegated Regulation (EU) 2025/530 should therefore be amended accordingly;

    1. Declares that it has no objections to the delegated regulation;

    2. Instructs its President to forward this decision to the Council and the Commission.

     

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: South Africa looks to global lessons as it sharpens its focus on gender priorities at G20

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    South Africa looks to global lessons as it sharpens its focus on gender priorities at G20

    As the G20 Technical Meetings continue in South Africa, a powerful voice is emerging from within the country’s leadership, calling for bolder and more targeted investments in women, youth, and persons with disabilities. 

    Advocate Joyce Mikateko Maluleke, the Chairperson of the G20 Empowerment Women Working Group (EWWG) and Director-General of the Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, told SAnews that South Africa is drawing critical lessons from global partners to respond to some of its most urgent challenges.

    The Third Technical Meeting of the G20 EWWG is currently taking place at the Skukuza Conference Centre at the Kruger National Park in Mpumalanga.   

    “There’s a lot that, as a country, we are learning from other countries. We have three priorities: valuing the care economy – both paid and unpaid; unlocking genuine financial inclusion for women, and eradicating gender-based violence and femicide,” Maluleke said. 

    Maluleke began by addressing the crisis of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF), which she said continues to tear through the country’s social fabric.

    “Gender-based violence is a crisis in South Africa. It’s really one thing that, as a country, we want to learn from other countries. Other countries have done so many things… for prevention, even regulating access to social media, because one of the biggest challenges is that our children have a lot of unlimited access to the internet at an early age. Other countries shared that they control what young persons have access to,” she explained.

    From controlling explicit media to implementing surveillance technologies that aid in prevention and justice, Maluleke said there is much to learn from. 

    “They have used technology to protect women. For example, you find that there’s a surveillance camera every few meters. It does help because they can follow up… They have invested in prevention,” she said. 

    Investing in strong family support structures, something other countries do well, is an area where South Africa must improve. Maluleke said this is one of the biggest prevention measures that the country needs to adopt.  

    On financial inclusion, Maluleke highlighted the need to replicate successful international models that empower women from the ground up.

    “We’ve learned from them… The support they give to women in businesses starts from their education systems. Countries like Germany have invested in vocational training, and they have elevated artisanship to the same level as those that went to university,” she said. 

    In Germany, Maluleke noted, 60% of learners pursue technical training, while only 40% go to university. 

    “That’s why Germany is so strong in terms of engineering and [technical fields],” she remarked.

    The third priority, which is care work, remains an often-overlooked economic force, Maluleke said.

    “Most countries have indicated that [care work] is a strong, unseen engine of the economy. Women will stay at home to raise children and to look after those who are sick…” she said, urging for an investment in systems that allow for a balance between work and life commitments.

    “Care work, they say, is work of love. Yes, we love our parents, but we must still be able to live,” Maluleke emphasised.

    On prevention strategies for GBVF, the Director-General stressed the urgent need to shift focus and budget accordingly.

    “… [UN Women] said: ‘Preventing gender-based violence is not expensive. Not preventing gender-based violence is expensive.” It costs [a lot to raise] children [whose] families… are not able to [take them] to school, who won’t be able to contribute to the GDP… and who [might] end up getting involved in substance abuse, and to rehabilitate them is expensive,” she said. 

    Towards a stronger declaration and legacy

    As deliberations continue, South Africa is preparing for the signing of a declaration that addresses its three focus areas, namely, care work, financial inclusion and GBVF. 

    Maluleke explained that every working group works on the technical meetings, which will culminate in the declaration that will be signed by Ministers in the G20 when they meet. 

    She emphasised that a key objective is to secure tangible outcomes from the G20 engagement.

    “One of the achievements that we would like to achieve is that the financial sector needs to ensure that when Ministers sign the declaration as a product… they also launch a legacy project,” she added. 

    Indeed, one such legacy project is already in the pipeline.

    “We already have the World Bank… The World Bank will be launching, as a legacy project of the South African G20 Presidency, a financial facility on care work.

    “Women, who are running ECDs [Early Childhood Development Centres], will be able to apply for funding from that fund. They will launch it at the Minister’s meeting,” Maluleke said. 

    Consensus and Positive Masculinity 

    With 21 countries now part of the G20, following the African Union’s recent inclusion, building consensus remains a major hurdle. 

    “All of them must consent to the declaration. That’s why we’re starting the negotiations today… and even tomorrow, we will be negotiating,” Maluleke said. 

    Alongside the declaration, South Africa is preparing another powerful intervention: a conference on positive masculinity.

    “Masculinity shouldn’t destroy. It should protect,” Maluleke said. 

    The event will bring together G20 countries, guest nations, and international organisations, aiming to change the mindset of men and reframe masculinity as a force for protection and empowerment.

    “There are countries that have reduced gender-based violence. They say gender-based violence can be prevented, but you have to invest in that prevention.

    “Gender-based violence doesn’t discriminate… All of us have to make sure that we prevent it so that we protect our girls,” the Director-General said. 

    As negotiations unfold and commitments solidify, South Africa is poised to drive meaningful change – not just at home but across the G20 platform by aligning global best practices with local action, and by ensuring no one is left behind in the fight for dignity, equity and justice. – SAnews.gov.za 

    DikelediM

    MIL OSI Africa –