Category: AM-NC

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – Shein in the Spotlight: IMCO to discuss EU action – Committee on the Internal Market and Consumer Protection

    Source: European Parliament

    E-commerce ©BELGA_BELPRESS

    On 25 June 2025, IMCO will hold an exchange of views on the ongoing investigations against e-commerce platforms and will discuss the latest developments. On 26 May 2025, the Consumer Protection Cooperation (CPC) Network of national consumer authorities and the European Commission, following a coordinated investigation at European level, notified the online marketplace and e-retailer Shein of a number of practices on its platform that infringe EU consumer law.

    The CPC Network directed Shein to bring those practices in line with EU consumer laws. The CPC Network’s action is led by the competent national authorities of Belgium, France, Ireland and The Netherlands, under the coordination of the European Commission.

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Benin Bronzes from the Netherlands returning home to Nigeria

    Source: Government of the Netherlands

    This week marks the return of 119 Benin Bronzes from the Netherlands to Nigeria. The official handover will take place on 21 June, at the National Museum in Lagos. The restitution is the result of intensive cooperation between experts and representatives from Nigeria and the Netherlands. The artifacts will be returned to the Nigerian government, which will decide how and where they will be displayed.

    Back in February this year, the Dutch Minister of Education, Culture and Science, Eppo Bruins, announced his decision to return the Benin Bronzes from the Dutch State Collection. The return is unconditional, recognising that the objects were looted during the British attack on Benin City in 1897, and should have never ended up in the Netherlands. On 19 February, Minister Bruins and the Director-General of the Nigerian National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM), Olugbile Holloway, signed the transfer agreements at the Wereldmuseum in Leiden, the Netherlands, where the objects were previously displayed.

    This week, the Bronzes’ journey home will conclude with an official handover ceremony at the National Museum in Lagos, in the presence of the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy Hannatu Musa Musawa, the Ambassador for International Cultural Cooperation of the Netherlands Dewi van de Weerd, the DG of the NCMM, the directors of the Wereldmuseum and other officials.

    The Nigerian government will decide how and where the artifacts will be displayed. They will initially be stored in the new NCMM Oba Ovonramwen storage facility at the National Museum in Benin City.

    The Dutch restitution is the largest physical return of Benin artifacts to Nigeria to date. DG Holloway of the NCMM: “The symbolism of this occasion cannot be overemphasised and what it means for the pride and dignity of not just the Benin people, but the whole of Nigeria. We assure the rest of the world that these objects will be cared for with the utmost attention to detail and displayed in all their glory. We thank the Netherlands for the good example set and look forward to forging even greater ties between our two nations through cultural diplomacy.”

    The Netherlands and Nigeria have worked closely together to realise this historic restitution. Dutch Ambassador for International Cultural Cooperation, Dewi van de Weerd: “We congratulate Nigeria on their persistent advocacy for the return of the Benin Bronzes. We hope that this restitution is not the final chapter, but the foundation for further cooperation between Dutch and Nigerian museums.”

    Prior to the ceremony, the Netherlands and Nigeria will jointly convene an expert workshop on digital heritage, which will bring together experts from both countries and the wider West African region. In commemoration of the handover, young contemporary artists from Benin City have developed an exhibition on “Reclaiming heritage: new narratives”, which is on display in the National Museum in Lagos.

    The Dutch restitution follows the recommendation of the independent Colonial Collections Committee, based on extensive provenance research, and is in line with the Dutch policy on the restitution of objects from a colonial context. Of the 119 objects being returned, 113 of the objects were part of the Dutch State Collection, while the remaining 6 are given back by the Municipality of Rotterdam. 4 items will remain on display in the Wereldmuseum on a loan agreement.

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Benin Bronzes from the Netherlands returning home to Nigeria

    Source: Government of the Netherlands

    This week marks the return of 119 Benin Bronzes from the Netherlands to Nigeria. The official handover will take place on 21 June, at the National Museum in Lagos. The restitution is the result of intensive cooperation between experts and representatives from Nigeria and the Netherlands. The artifacts will be returned to the Nigerian government, which will decide how and where they will be displayed.

    Back in February this year, the Dutch Minister of Education, Culture and Science, Eppo Bruins, announced his decision to return the Benin Bronzes from the Dutch State Collection. The return is unconditional, recognising that the objects were looted during the British attack on Benin City in 1897, and should have never ended up in the Netherlands. On 19 February, Minister Bruins and the Director-General of the Nigerian National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM), Olugbile Holloway, signed the transfer agreements at the Wereldmuseum in Leiden, the Netherlands, where the objects were previously displayed.

    This week, the Bronzes’ journey home will conclude with an official handover ceremony at the National Museum in Lagos, in the presence of the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy Hannatu Musa Musawa, the Ambassador for International Cultural Cooperation of the Netherlands Dewi van de Weerd, the DG of the NCMM, the directors of the Wereldmuseum and other officials.

    The Nigerian government will decide how and where the artifacts will be displayed. They will initially be stored in the new NCMM Oba Ovonramwen storage facility at the National Museum in Benin City.

    The Dutch restitution is the largest physical return of Benin artifacts to Nigeria to date. DG Holloway of the NCMM: “The symbolism of this occasion cannot be overemphasised and what it means for the pride and dignity of not just the Benin people, but the whole of Nigeria. We assure the rest of the world that these objects will be cared for with the utmost attention to detail and displayed in all their glory. We thank the Netherlands for the good example set and look forward to forging even greater ties between our two nations through cultural diplomacy.”

    The Netherlands and Nigeria have worked closely together to realise this historic restitution. Dutch Ambassador for International Cultural Cooperation, Dewi van de Weerd: “We congratulate Nigeria on their persistent advocacy for the return of the Benin Bronzes. We hope that this restitution is not the final chapter, but the foundation for further cooperation between Dutch and Nigerian museums.”

    Prior to the ceremony, the Netherlands and Nigeria will jointly convene an expert workshop on digital heritage, which will bring together experts from both countries and the wider West African region. In commemoration of the handover, young contemporary artists from Benin City have developed an exhibition on “Reclaiming heritage: new narratives”, which is on display in the National Museum in Lagos.

    The Dutch restitution follows the recommendation of the independent Colonial Collections Committee, based on extensive provenance research, and is in line with the Dutch policy on the restitution of objects from a colonial context. Of the 119 objects being returned, 113 of the objects were part of the Dutch State Collection, while the remaining 6 are given back by the Municipality of Rotterdam. 4 items will remain on display in the Wereldmuseum on a loan agreement.

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Benin Bronzes from the Netherlands returning home to Nigeria

    Source: Government of the Netherlands

    This week marks the return of 119 Benin Bronzes from the Netherlands to Nigeria. The official handover will take place on 21 June, at the National Museum in Lagos. The restitution is the result of intensive cooperation between experts and representatives from Nigeria and the Netherlands. The artifacts will be returned to the Nigerian government, which will decide how and where they will be displayed.

    Back in February this year, the Dutch Minister of Education, Culture and Science, Eppo Bruins, announced his decision to return the Benin Bronzes from the Dutch State Collection. The return is unconditional, recognising that the objects were looted during the British attack on Benin City in 1897, and should have never ended up in the Netherlands. On 19 February, Minister Bruins and the Director-General of the Nigerian National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM), Olugbile Holloway, signed the transfer agreements at the Wereldmuseum in Leiden, the Netherlands, where the objects were previously displayed.

    This week, the Bronzes’ journey home will conclude with an official handover ceremony at the National Museum in Lagos, in the presence of the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy Hannatu Musa Musawa, the Ambassador for International Cultural Cooperation of the Netherlands Dewi van de Weerd, the DG of the NCMM, the directors of the Wereldmuseum and other officials.

    The Nigerian government will decide how and where the artifacts will be displayed. They will initially be stored in the new NCMM Oba Ovonramwen storage facility at the National Museum in Benin City.

    The Dutch restitution is the largest physical return of Benin artifacts to Nigeria to date. DG Holloway of the NCMM: “The symbolism of this occasion cannot be overemphasised and what it means for the pride and dignity of not just the Benin people, but the whole of Nigeria. We assure the rest of the world that these objects will be cared for with the utmost attention to detail and displayed in all their glory. We thank the Netherlands for the good example set and look forward to forging even greater ties between our two nations through cultural diplomacy.”

    The Netherlands and Nigeria have worked closely together to realise this historic restitution. Dutch Ambassador for International Cultural Cooperation, Dewi van de Weerd: “We congratulate Nigeria on their persistent advocacy for the return of the Benin Bronzes. We hope that this restitution is not the final chapter, but the foundation for further cooperation between Dutch and Nigerian museums.”

    Prior to the ceremony, the Netherlands and Nigeria will jointly convene an expert workshop on digital heritage, which will bring together experts from both countries and the wider West African region. In commemoration of the handover, young contemporary artists from Benin City have developed an exhibition on “Reclaiming heritage: new narratives”, which is on display in the National Museum in Lagos.

    The Dutch restitution follows the recommendation of the independent Colonial Collections Committee, based on extensive provenance research, and is in line with the Dutch policy on the restitution of objects from a colonial context. Of the 119 objects being returned, 113 of the objects were part of the Dutch State Collection, while the remaining 6 are given back by the Municipality of Rotterdam. 4 items will remain on display in the Wereldmuseum on a loan agreement.

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Concept Masterplan for Station Approach approved

    Source: City of Winchester


    Winchester City Council has approved a brand-new Concept Masterplan for Station Approach in Winchester.

    The Concept Masterplan, which was considered and formally endorsed at this week’s Cabinet meeting, establishes the vision and aspiration for the site.

    Award-winning local architects, Design Engine, produced the Concept Masterplan on behalf of Winchester City Council, using public feedback received during a six-week consultation last summer.

    Councillor Martin Tod, Leader of Winchester City Council, said:

    “Plans for Station Approach have been controversial in the past, but this decision is a real step forward.  Design Engine have worked alongside local people, local stakeholders and our local councils to develop a really positive plan for the area.  

    “Change is coming, and we need to be ready for it.  The new Mayoral Strategic Authority coming as a result of the Government’s devolution plans gives us a chance to do a much better job in the area around the station and at the station itself. It gives us a way to join up the use of railway land, county land and City Council land – and also join up buses and trains: these plans will make sure we’re ready for that.  We’re also likely to need less parking in the immediate area when the planned new Park & Ride to the north of the city opens up – and that will also let us use the land more productively.

    “Winchester is a national powerhouse for architecture and we’re really lucky that Design Engine were willing to take this project on. They know Winchester and they care about Winchester and it really shows through in the work they’ve done.”

    The area around Winchester Railway Station is an important gateway to the city. The council’s emerging local plan identifies the ‘Station Approach’ regeneration area, which is allocated as a mixed-use site, with potential to deliver up to 250 homes.

    Richard Jobson, Founding Director of Design Engine, said:

    The Concept Masterplan has been both an interesting, engaging, and enjoyable process to lead. Together with the Winchester City Council’s Regeneration and Planning teams, and in consultation with the local community and interest groups, the proposed plan created encompasses both a pragmatic and a dynamic vision for how the Station Approach area can be positively redeveloped in the future.

    “Design Engine Architects and our collaborators are grateful for the opportunity to add value to the future vision of a key part of our city that is right on our doorstep.”

    In 2023, Winchester City Council agreed a new approach to Concept Masterplanning, which enables improved community engagement and becomes a material condition in future decision making.

    You can view the Concept Masterplan and supporting documents here: Station Approach – Winchester City Council

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Russia: HSE, Adygea and ASU unite to strengthen science and education in the republic

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An agreement on strategic cooperation between the Higher School of Economics, the Republic of Adygea and Adyghe State University was signed on the sidelines of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum. The document was signed by HSE Rector Nikita Anisimov, Head of the Republic of Adygea Murat Kumpilov and Rector of Adyghe State University Daud Mamiy.

    The agreement is aimed at developing systemic cooperation in the educational and research spheres. The main goal of cooperation is to create conditions for the formation and strengthening of the human resources potential of the Republic of Adygea, support regional educational organizations, and build sustainable ties between universities and local institutions.

    The agreement provides expert, methodological and legal support for the regional education system. HSE will organize advanced training and retraining programs for teachers and management teams of Adyghe State University and other educational organizations in Adygea. The parties also agreed to jointly develop educational programs, assist in organizing practical training for students, and develop student and academic exchange, including internships.

    Particular attention will be paid to the formation of a network of partner educational institutions to improve the quality of school education, as well as the implementation of intellectual projects for schoolchildren and youth. Cooperation involves the integration of educational, scientific and industrial activities in order to train specialists in demand in the economy and social sphere of the region.

    “Interaction with the Higher School of Economics, our leading universities – Adyghe State University and Maikop State Technological University – is of great importance. Relying on such cooperation will allow us to more effectively form a management team, achieve the intended goals in key projects and programs, find optimal solutions to complex problems taking into account the development prospects of Adygea, including within the framework of the creation of an industrial park and a large-scale eco-resort “Lagonaki”, “concluded Murat Kumpilov, Head of the Republic of Adygea

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

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • Israel says it hit dozens of military targets in Iran, including nuclear research site

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Israeli military said on Friday it carried out strikes on dozens of military targets in Iran overnight, including the Organization of Defensive Innovation and Research that it said is involved in Iran’s nuclear weapons development.

    An industrial plant in northern Iran was damaged in an attack, Iranian media reported on Friday, hours after Israel issued a warning for residents to move away from nearby areas.

    Earlier media reports said the plant in the Sefidrud industrial area was involved in the production of carbon fiber, which can be used in the manufacturing of weapons systems such as missile bodies.

    (Reuters)

  • Israel says it hit dozens of military targets in Iran, including nuclear research site

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Israeli military said on Friday it carried out strikes on dozens of military targets in Iran overnight, including the Organization of Defensive Innovation and Research that it said is involved in Iran’s nuclear weapons development.

    An industrial plant in northern Iran was damaged in an attack, Iranian media reported on Friday, hours after Israel issued a warning for residents to move away from nearby areas.

    Earlier media reports said the plant in the Sefidrud industrial area was involved in the production of carbon fiber, which can be used in the manufacturing of weapons systems such as missile bodies.

    (Reuters)

  • PM Modi launches key development projects in Bihar, flags off first export locomotive from Marhowra Plant

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (2)

    rime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday laid the foundation stone and inaugurated a series of development projects in Bihar, with a focus on rail connectivity, sanitation, power infrastructure, and affordable housing.

    The highlight of the Prime Minister’s visit to the Saran district was the flagging off of a state-of-the-art export locomotive built at the Marhowra Plant. Manufactured under the “Make in India – Make for the World” initiative, the locomotive will be exported to the Republic of Guinea, marking the plant’s first international dispatch.

    These advanced locomotives feature high-horsepower engines, AC propulsion systems, microprocessor-based control systems, ergonomically designed cabs, and regenerative braking technology, showcasing India’s growing capabilities in rail manufacturing.

    As part of efforts to enhance regional connectivity, PM Modi also flagged off the Vande Bharat Express between Patliputra and Gorakhpur, passing through Muzaffarpur and Bettiah, significantly boosting rail access in North Bihar.

    In addition, he inaugurated the Vaishali–Deoria railway line, a project valued at over ₹400 crore, and flagged off a new train service along the route to strengthen connectivity across the region.

    Under the Namami Gange programme, the Prime Minister inaugurated six Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) with a combined investment of over ₹1,800 crore. These plants aim to enhance sanitation and water quality in towns situated along the Ganga River.

    PM Modi also laid the foundation stone for a series of water supply and sanitation projects worth more than ₹3,000 crore, which are set to benefit several towns across Bihar by ensuring access to safe and clean drinking water.

    In a major step toward modernizing the state’s energy infrastructure, the Prime Minister launched a 500 MWh Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project. These standalone units will be installed at 15 grid substations in locations including Muzaffarpur, Motihari, Bettiah, and Siwan. With storage capacities ranging from 20 to 80 MWh, the BESS installations are expected to help electricity distribution companies meet peak demand more efficiently and reduce procurement costs, ultimately passing on the benefits to consumers.

    On the housing front, PM Modi released the first instalment under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Urban (PMAY-U) to more than 53,600 beneficiaries in Bihar. He also handed over keys to select recipients as part of a Grih Pravesh ceremony, marking the completion of over 6,600 new houses built under the scheme.

  • MIL-OSI Africa: RTMC welcomes sentence imposed on Limpopo vehicle testing official

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    RTMC welcomes sentence imposed on Limpopo vehicle testing official

    The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has welcomed the jail sentence imposed on a vehicle testing official from a privately owned testing station in Limpopo.

    This as the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court on Thursday sentenced Kabelo Chilenge (37) to six years direct imprisonment for fraudulently issuing a vehicle roadworthy certificate for a vehicle that he did not physically examine. 

    The court found that a suspended sentence would not be appropriate in these circumstances.

    The certificate was issued at Quick Test vehicle testing station in Modimolle, Limpopo in April 2022 while the vehicle in question was in a police pound at the time.

    Although no evidence to prove that Chilenge benefitted personally from the illicit transaction, the court drew inference that such conduct could not be executed without gratification.

    The court said the accused earned a salary and there was no need for him to commit such an offence. It considered that unroadworthy vehicles cause accidents when allowed to operate on the roads.

    “The RTMC feels that this sentence is appropriate and serve[s] as a deterrent to others who are involved in such unlawful activities,” said the RTMC.

    Members of the public are urged to use the following platforms to report alleged fraud and corruption: email ntacu@rtmc.co.za or WhatsApp to 083 293 7989. – SAnews.gov.za 
     

    Edwin

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Western Cape works around the clock to deal with extortion, says Premier

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Western Cape works around the clock to deal with extortion, says Premier

    Extortion hinders economic growth and job creation, posing daily threats to residents’ safety and livelihoods. It robs people of opportunities and their dignity. 

    This is according to Western Cape Premier Alan Winde, who was speaking during his regular digital conference on safety, where he hosted Hubert Paulse, chairperson of Business against Crime South Africa (BACSA). 

    “The only way we will eradicate ‘extortion mafias’ is if we all work together. We cannot fight crime alone. We stand a better chance by collaborating and sharing resources,” stressed Winde. 

    BACSA is a non-profit organisation that was established in 1996. It played a crucial role in fostering partnerships between the private sector and law enforcement agencies across South Africa to collaborate in the fight against crime.

    BACSA also participated in the Western Cape government’s Multi-Sectoral Anti-Extortion Summit this week. 

    This summit brought together various stakeholders, including Members of the Executive Council (MECs), the South African Police Service (SAPS), the City of Cape Town (CoCT), and academic experts, to discuss strategies for addressing the alarming increase in extortion, which has reached crisis levels nationwide.

    “This was about the whole of government and society coming together to coordinate ourselves better to confront this ‘cancer’ called extortion and to discuss how we are going to rid ourselves of this horrendous crime that impacts so many of our residents and businesses,” said Winde. 

    Paulse has described BACSA as a public-private partnership that exists to make South Africa safer. 

    “Our message is simple but powerful. We foster collaboration with all stakeholders to fight crime. When we work together, we do not just reduce crime – we restore hope. And with hope comes confidence. Businesses become more willing to invest, and that investment leads to the creation of more jobs.”

    The organisation operates several programmes addressing extortion, tourism safety, gender-based violence, infrastructure vandalism, and theft. 

    Paulse believes that technology is the “eyes and ears” of crime-fighting efforts, emphasising its initiative designed for an intelligence-gathering network.

    “We are using that geographical footprint to increase the operational response and awareness of the SAPS,” he said.

    In the meantime, the Premier stated that criminals are utilising technology and believes the government must stay ahead. 

    He also emphasised the essential role of neighbourhood watches (NHWs) and community policing forums (CPFs) in fighting and preventing crime.

    “That is exactly what our whole-of-society approach is about. There is no doubt that residents who form or join NHWs know more about what is going on in their areas than anyone else, and they form essential partnerships with SAPS and municipal law enforcement. This enables residents to play a more meaningful role.”

    He welcomed the recent proposal by Police Minister Senzo Mchunu to give metro law enforcement bodies more powers to combat crime.

    “This is a positive step forward. It does not matter who you are, national government, provincial governments, or civil society, we must all be obsessed and driven by the same thing, to build a safer, prosperous province and country.”

    The Premier also condemned the recent minibus taxi-related violence in parts of Cape Town.

    “It is intolerable that disputes are ‘negotiated’ through the barrel of a gun. But on a day when we are also highlighting the power of partnerships, I want to commend all the role players, from provincial traffic and city law enforcement to SAPS and our officials, for the speed and coordination with which they responded to the violence and threats.” – SAnews.gov.za

    Gabisile

    MIL OSI Africa

  • China can’t decide whether we are a country, Taiwan foreign minister says

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    China has no right to decide whether or not Taiwan is a country given it chooses its own government, Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung said on Wednesday, adding that he would be happy to shake the hand of his Chinese opposite number in friendship.

    China views democratically-governed Taiwan as its own territory and has stepped up military and political pressure to assert those claims, including increasing the intensity of war games, saying the island is one of its provinces with no right to be called a state.

    Taiwan President Lai Ching-te and his government strongly reject that view, and have offered talks with China multiple times but have been rejected. China calls Lai a “separatist”.

    Asked by Reuters what he would say to Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi should they ever meet, Lin said that given the opportunity he would definitely shake hands with him.

    “What the nature is of cross-Taiwan Strait relations can be discussed, but we are all human. First, extend the hand of friendship. If he shook my hand, that would be a good start,” he said at a press briefing to mark the first anniversary of Lai taking office. “If he takes his hand back, that’s his problem.”

    Taiwan’s formal name is the Republic of China, the name of the government which in 1949 fled to the island after losing a bloody civil war with Mao Zedong’s communists, who established the People’s Republic of China.

    “Whether or not Taiwan is a country is not up to Wang Yi, nor the People’s Republic of China, to say. The whole world sees us as a country. We choose our governments democratically. It is our business what our name is.”

    China’s foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

    The chances Lin and Wang could meet are low. Neither government recognises the other, officials do not visit each other, and Taiwan is not a member of most international bodies due to China’s objections.

    Lai on Tuesday reiterated an offer to talk to China, saying he sought peace but that the island must also boost its defences.

    China responded by saying his comments were a “two-faced tactic” that were a “waste of effort and doomed to fail”.

    Taiwan’s government has warned that Beijing could mark the anniversary with more military drills.

    (Reuters)

  • Gaza faces a man-made drought as water systems collapse, UNICEF says

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Gaza is facing a man-made drought as its water systems collapse, the United Nations’ children agency said on Friday.

    “Children will begin to die of thirst … Just 40% of drinking water production facilities remain functional,” UNICEF spokesperson James Elder told reporters in Geneva.

    “We are way below emergency standards in terms of drinking water for people in Gaza,” he added.

    UNICEF also reported a 50% increase in children aged six months to 5 years admitted for treatment of malnutrition from April to May in Gaza, and half a million people going hungry.

    It said the U.S.-backed aid distribution system run by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) was “making a desperate situation worse.”

    On Friday at least 25 people awaiting aid trucks or seeking aid were killed by Israeli fire south of Netzarim in central Gaza Strip, according to local health authorities. On Thursday at least 51 people were killed by Israeli gunfire and military strikes, including 12 people who tried to approach a site operated by the GHF in the central Gaza Strip.

    Elder, who was recently in Gaza, said he had many testimonials of women and children injured while trying to receive food aid, including a young boy who was wounded by a tank shell and later died of his injuries.

    He said a lack of public clarity on when the sites, some of which are in combat zones, were open was causing mass casualty events.

    “There have been instances where information (was) shared that a site is open, but then it’s communicated on social media that they’re closed, but that information was shared when Gaza’s internet was down and people had no access to it,” he said.

    On Wednesday, the GHF said in a statement it had distributed three million meals across three of its aid sites without an incident.

    On Friday at least 12 people were killed in an airstrike on a house belonging to the Ayyash family in Deir Al-Balah, taking the day’s death toll to 37.

    (Reuters)

  • World sees India as next economic powerhouse, says PM, credits Bihar’s potential

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for development projects worth more than ₹5,200 crore in Siwan, Bihar, asserting that the initiatives would help shape a brighter and more prosperous future for the State.
     
    Addressing a large public gathering, the Prime Minister invoked the sacred presence of Sohgara Dham and offered salutations to Baba Mahendra Nath, Baba Hans Nath, Maa Thawe Bhawani and Maa Ambika Bhawani. He paid homage to the nation’s first President, Dr. Rajendra Prasad and Loknayak Jayaprakash Narayan, recalling their contributions to the nation and to Bihar’s legacy.
     
    Calling Siwan “a land of inspiration in India’s freedom struggle,” PM Modi said, “This soil has empowered the country’s democracy and strengthened the Constitution. It gave us Dr. Rajendra Prasad, who not only played a key role in drafting the Constitution but also shaped the direction of modern India.” He also remembered the social reformer Braj Kishore Prasad for his work in the upliftment of women.
     
    The Prime Minister said the new development projects reflect the continued efforts of the Central and State governments to realise the dreams of these great leaders. “Today, projects worth thousands of crores are being inaugurated and their foundation stones are being laid from this very platform,” he said, adding that the initiatives would benefit districts such as Siwan, Sasaram, Buxar, Motihari, Bettiah and Arrah. “These projects will ease the lives of the poor, the deprived, Dalits, Mahadalits, backward and extremely backward classes,” he said.
     
    PM Modi, who returned on Thursday from a three nation tour Cyprus, Canada, and Croatia, spoke of India’s growing recognition on the global stage. “Leaders of the world’s most developed nations are astonished at the pace of India’s progress. They believe that India is soon going to become the world’s third-largest economy. I am confident that Bihar will play a crucial role in this transformation,” he said.
     
    He praised the people of Bihar for overcoming what he described as an era of lawlessness and misgovernance. “Today’s youth in Bihar only hear stories about how things were two decades ago. They don’t fully realise the extent of damage caused by earlier regimes. Bihar, which once led India in education, culture and development, had unfortunately become a symbol of forced migration,” he said.
     
    Emphasising the pride and resilience of the people, the Prime Minister said, “For every Bihari, self-respect is paramount. My Bihari brothers and sisters do not bow down in difficult times. They fight and succeed. But the previous governments inflicted deep wounds on that pride. Through their corruption, they turned poverty into Bihar’s misfortune.”
     
    PM Modi appreciated the current government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, for bringing Bihar back on the path of development. “In the last 10–11 years, more than 55,000 kilometres of rural roads have been built. Over 1.5 crore households have received electricity connections and another 1.5 crore have been connected to piped water supply. More than 45,000 Common Service Centres have been established across Bihar, and new startups are coming up even in small towns,” he said.
  • Air India crash: 220 DNA matches confirmed as Centre reviews aviation safety protocols

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    DNA identification of 220 victims who perished in the Air India plane crash on June 12 in Ahmedabad has been completed, the Gujarat Health Department said on Friday.

    The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, en route to London with 242 people on board, crashed just seconds after takeoff, slamming into nearby buildings. All but one passenger on board were killed, along with several people on the ground.

    Out of the 220 identified victims, 202 bodies have been handed over to their families. These include 151 Indian nationals, 34 British citizens, seven Portuguese nationals, one Canadian, and nine non-passengers.

    According to the Health Department, 15 mortal remains were transported by air, while 187 were moved by road using ambulances to their respective destinations across the country.

    In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Gujarat Health Minister Rushikesh Patel said that the remaining bodies will be handed over soon.

    https://x.com/irushikeshpatel/status/1935945967104082349

    In the wake of the crash, Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu on Thursday conducted a nationwide review with airport directors to assess preparedness amid growing disruptions in flight schedules. The disruptions have been attributed to post-crash technical checks, adverse weather conditions, and the closure of airspace linked to geopolitical tensions.

    The Minister directed airport authorities to ensure the availability of food, drinking water, and seating at terminals during delays. He also called for increased staff deployment at key points to address passenger grievances and to assist airlines facing operational challenges. Wildlife hazard management, particularly the prevention of bird strikes and stray animal interference, was also reinforced as a safety priority.

    In another meeting with the Chairman and Managing Director of Air India, the Minister reviewed steps being taken to maintain flight operations and public communication. With night flying restrictions in Europe and heightened safety checks limiting aircraft availability, Air India will temporarily reduce its services and restructure schedules. The airline has committed to offering rebookings or full refunds to affected passengers.

    On June 18 and 19, the Ministry also held meetings with the senior management of SpiceJet, IndiGo, and Akasa to review fleet readiness, safety oversight, and passenger handling. The government has decided to institutionalise regular reviews with airlines to improve coordination and response in emergency scenarios.

    The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), with international assistance, is continuing its probe. Both the Digital Flight Data Recorder and Cockpit Voice Recorder have been recovered from the site. The Ministry has said the decision to send the black boxes abroad for decoding will be made based on technical and security assessments.

    The Ministry has urged the media and the public to avoid speculation and to allow the investigation to progress. Officials reiterated their commitment to transparency and to maintaining the highest standards of passenger safety.

  • MIL-OSI Banking: China Unicom Beijing and Huawei Are Embracing the AI Revolution, Striding Towards Intelligent Era

    Source: Huawei

    Headline: China Unicom Beijing and Huawei Are Embracing the AI Revolution, Striding Towards Intelligent Era

    [Shanghai, China, June 20, 2025] At Mobile World Congress (MWC) Shanghai 2025, Yang Lifan, Deputy General Manager of China Unicom Beijing, delivered a speech titled “Are We Ready for AI?” and jointly released Smart Operation Network 2.0 with Huawei at the 5G-A Industry Roundtable. The speech highlighted the unprecedented growth of data driven by artificial intelligence (AI), which is making communications networks smarter and more automated. China Unicom Beijing will work with Huawei to upgrade 5G-A network infrastructure, push network evolution from “connection pipes” to “intelligent platforms,” and converge ICT innovations.

    Yang Lifan is delivering a keynote speech at 5G-A Industry Roundtable

    In the mobile AI era, innovative applications like human-level interactions, autonomous driving, and industrial Internet of Things (IoT) are flourishing. This has resulted in explosive traffic growth and the need for higher uplink speeds. For example, cloud-based AI training and high-definition (HD) video upload typically require an uplink bandwidth of more than 20 Mbps. Live-network traffic is expected to surge to five times the current level. Then, China Unicom Beijing’s networks will face uplink bottlenecks if only mid-band resources are used, which will compromise AI service user experience. A professional data model by China Unicom Beijing and Huawei predicts that 2029 will be the tipping point.
    Networking: 5G-A Multi-Layer Collaboration for Multi-dimensional AI User Experience
    China Unicom Beijing and Huawei have deployed the world’s first 3D smart 5G-A network across Beijing. The network will tackle the challenges of the AI era and enable ubiquitous 5G-A across both air and ground. The two companies have also piloted the world’s first 1:1 3D networking based on high- and mid-band coordination, which enables seamless 5G-A user experience. This network verifies the feasibility of high-band networking. China Unicom Beijing is leading the transition from single-band networks to a layered communications system, with high bands for network capacity, mid-bands for continuous coverage, and low bands and space-air-ground coordination for wide-area coverage. This system will strengthen the foundation for seamless interconnections for all manner of applications. The key to this network is the coordination of high, mid-, low, and other bands for low-altitude and satellite communications.
    AI: New Operations System Centered on Autonomous Networks
    Conventional networks struggle with network parameters and troubleshooting, and are heavily reliant on manual operations. China Unicom Beijing and Huawei are using AI to enable automated and unattended network operations, which is becoming the industry norm. The two companies are working to achieve automation across all network settings by 2026, covering site deployment, maintenance, optimization, and complaint handling. China Unicom Beijing and Huawei have launched a digital twin system for high-speed rail that makes passenger services fully visualized. The system transforms sensing from the line grid level to the passenger level to enable insights for each individual passenger in seconds. User experience is significantly enhanced by automatic demarcation and locating of all signals, which shortens fault response to within 10 seconds and fault self-healing to within 30 minutes. Moreover, universal intelligent service processing units (UISPs) are used to accurately identify and analyze user services. This enables service-oriented dynamic experience assurance and significantly improves 5G-A operational efficiency and service quality.
    Yang stated: “Future networks will feature space-air-ground and spectrum coordination, and their O&M will be dynamic and automated with the help of AI agents. Instead of passively reacting, operators should proactively embrace cutting-edge technology to make communications networks truly intelligent.”
    David Li, Vice President of Huawei Wireless Network Product Line, remarked: “In order to explore new connection spaces, and unlock new business value, 5G-A networks should fulfill the diverse needs of different applications, user groups, and services. Prioritizing experience-centered networks, we will continue to enable technological innovations in high uplink, low latency, and smart operations to facilitate the implementation of China Unicom Beijing’s space-air-ground integrated smart network strategy, with the aim of delivering more-than-fast experiences to users in Beijing.”
    MWC Shanghai 2025 will be held from June 18 to June 20 in Shanghai, China. During the event, Huawei will showcase its latest products and solutions in Hall N1 of the Shanghai New International Expo Center (SNIEC).
    The commercial adoption of 5G-Advanced is accelerating in 2025. Huawei collaborates with global carriers, industry experts, and opinion leaders to explore how innovations in AI can be used to reshape telecom services, infrastructure, and operations to generate new revenue sources and accelerate the transition towards an intelligent world.
    For more information, please visit: https://carrier.huawei.com/en/events/mwcs2025

    MIL OSI Global Banks

  • DEPwD observes World Sickle Cell Day 2025 with nationwide awareness programmes

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, organized a series of nationwide awareness programmes on Thursday to mark World Sickle Cell Awareness Day.

    The initiatives aimed to educate communities about Sickle Cell Disease (SCD), a hereditary blood disorder that disproportionately impacts tribal populations and affects millions globally.

    Marked annually on June 19, World Sickle Cell Day serves as a global health observance recognized by the United Nations. The theme for 2025, “Global Action, Local Impact: Empowering Communities for Effective Self-Advocacy,” underlines the importance of engaging local communities in efforts toward early diagnosis, treatment, and support for individuals with SCD.

    As part of the observance, the National Institute for Locomotor Disabilities (NILD) in Kolkata organized an awareness programme at NRS Medical College, where medical professionals and patients were briefed on the symptoms, diagnostic procedures, and treatment options for SCD.

    In Chennai, the National Institute for Empowerment of Persons with Multiple Disabilities (NIEPMD) held an outreach event in Chengalpattu, targeting the general public with information on disease management and the vital role of community involvement in patient care.

    The Swami Vivekanand National Institute of Rehabilitation Training and Research (SVNIRTAR) in Cuttack conducted a special programme emphasizing early detection and the importance of creating supportive environments for individuals with SCD.

    In Secunderabad, the National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities (NIEPID) hosted an awareness session for parents, students, and professionals in the field, focusing on challenges faced by those living with the disease.

    Composite Regional Centers also played a vital role in spreading awareness. CRC Tripura held a programme at Nutan Nagar Girls Higher Secondary School in Agartala, while CRC Gorakhpur organized a seminar through its Cross-Disability Early Intervention Centre (CDEIC), focusing on children and parents. The session addressed the complexities of SCD, stressing the need for early diagnosis and appropriate treatment. CRC Nagpur marked the occasion with a special online webinar.

    Apart from these flagship events, numerous other CRCs and National Institutes under DEPwD conducted local-level awareness drives, collectively working to ensure timely interventions, build public understanding, and strengthen support systems for families affected by SCD across the country.

  • Monsoon advances further, heavy rainfall forecast across several states

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The southwest monsoon has continued its progress across northern India–covering the remaining parts of Bihar, East Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh, along with some parts of West Uttar Pradesh, most of Uttarakhand, many areas of Himachal Pradesh, and sections of Ladakh–with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicting widespread heavy rainfall in several regions over the coming days.

    On June 20, heavy to very heavy rainfall is likely at isolated places in Jharkhand, with rainfall activity expected to intensify over Northwest India and Madhya Pradesh from June 22. Northeast India is forecast to experience sustained heavy to very heavy showers over the next seven days, bringing much-needed monsoon rains to the region.

    In Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR), the weather is expected to remain generally cloudy between June 20 and 23. Light rain and thunderstorms with gusty winds of up to 50 kmph are expected on June 20 and 21, keeping maximum temperatures in the range of 35 to 37°C, which is slightly below normal. Conditions are likely to intensify on June 22 and 23, with moderate to heavy rainfall and thunderstorms accompanied by strong winds. Maximum temperatures during these days are forecast to range between 34 and 36°C, dipping 2 to 4 degrees below the seasonal average, while minimum temperatures may remain between 25 and 28°C.

    Elsewhere in the country, extremely heavy rainfall — exceeding 20 cm in 24 hours — is likely at isolated locations in northwest Madhya Pradesh on June 23. Very heavy rainfall is also predicted over West Madhya Pradesh from June 20 to 26, and over East Madhya Pradesh between June 21 and 23. Similar intense rainfall activity is expected in Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand on June 20, and in Bihar on June 22 and 23.

    Several other regions are also expected to see very heavy rainfall, including Konkan and Goa, Madhya Maharashtra, and the northeastern states of Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura from June 22 to 24. Arunachal Pradesh may witness very heavy rainfall on June 23 and 24, while Assam and Meghalaya are likely to continue receiving intense showers from June 20 to 24.

    In northern India, East Uttar Pradesh is expected to receive heavy rainfall from June 20 to 22, while East Rajasthan may see similar conditions on June 20 and 23. Rainfall is also forecast over South Haryana and West Uttar Pradesh on June 22. Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand are likely to experience sustained rainfall activity between June 22 and 26.

    Authorities have been advised to remain alert in light of the heavy rainfall warnings, with potential impacts including localised flooding, waterlogging, and disruption to transport and daily life.

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Chernyshenko: The admissions campaign begins in more than 1.2 thousand universities and almost 4 thousand colleges in our country

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    The admissions campaign to Russian universities, technical schools and colleges starts on June 20. Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko, Minister of Science and Higher Education Valery Falkov and Minister of Education Sergey Kravtsov addressed graduates.

    “The admissions campaign is starting in more than 1,200 universities and almost 4,000 colleges in our country. In total, over 619,000 budget places are available for higher education programs and about 835,000 for secondary vocational programs this academic year. It is important to emphasize that most budget places are allocated for specialties that contribute to Russia’s technological leadership – this is a national goal approved by President Vladimir Putin. I wish applicants successful admission and urge them to choose specialties that are truly needed by the regions and our entire country,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.

    The head of the Ministry of Education and Science, Valery Falkov, noted that traditionally, the majority of budget places – more than 73% – are distributed to regional universities.

    “We take into account the prospective need within the personnel forecast, including the need for national projects of technological leadership and regional investment programs. Therefore, the structure of admission is dominated by specialties that ensure the technological leadership of our country. Almost 43% are areas related to engineering, modern technologies, 246 thousand budget places,” the minister said.

    He added that such fields as medicine, pedagogical specialties, social sciences and others also remain leaders in terms of the number of budget places.

    In 2025, a separate quota of at least 10% of the total number of budget places has been set for admission to universities for participants in the special military operation and their family members – this is more than 50 thousand places. Another 2 thousand places are reserved in the preparatory departments of universities.

    The peculiarities of school education in a number of border territories of the Belgorod, Kursk and Bryansk regions have been taken into account. Graduates of these schools will be able to enter universities by choice both by the Unified State Exam and by internal entrance examinations of universities in the form of a single interview.

    The quota for targeted admission to universities will be more than 23% of the total number of budget places. Applicants can see employers’ offers on the “Work of Russia” platform, integrated with the “Online University Admission” system.

    Since this year, the functionality of the super service “Online University Admission” has been expanded – now students can apply to colleges and technical schools at universities. Also, since this year, the super service has covered admission to master’s and postgraduate programs. This year, universities from the reunited regions of Russia will join it.

    In addition, a draft of amendments to the Federal Law “On Education in the Russian Federation” for the transition to the new model is ready. A large-scale transition to the new model of higher education will begin in 2026-2027.

    On the instructions of the President, a pilot project is being implemented in the country to introduce a new system of higher education in 6 universities.

    As part of the pilot, students of these universities receive basic higher education – a single level has been introduced, training of a full-fledged specialist is carried out in one step, specialized higher education – master’s programs contain additional in-depth knowledge and are divided into three types – professional, research and management master’s programs.

    The admissions campaign also begins in colleges and technical schools of the federal project “Professionalism” of the national project “Youth and Children”.

    “The popularity of studying in colleges and technical schools has grown in recent years. 62.5% of ninth-graders choose colleges and technical schools to continue their education. For three years now, admission to colleges and technical schools has been more than 1.2 million people. The admission campaign for the new academic year starts on June 20. For future first-year students, 51.5 thousand more budget places have been prepared than last year – 834.7 thousand places,” said Minister of Education Sergey Kravtsov.

    He emphasized that such areas as “Geology and exploration of oil and gas fields”, “Production and maintenance of aviation equipment”, “Ensuring information security of telecommunication systems”, “Tourism and hospitality”, “Information systems and programming”, “Nursing”, “Maintenance and repair of engines, systems and units of cars” are in demand on the labor market and popular among applicants.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The government has approved the parameters of an experiment to improve the quality of state and municipal services

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    From June 25, 2025 to December 31, 2027, Russia will conduct an experiment aimed at improving the quality of state and municipal services, services, and the implementation of life situations. The resolution approving the procedure for its implementation was signed by Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin.

    As part of the pilot experiment, it is planned to optimize the provision of both individual services and a set of services in the format of life situations to citizens and legal entities, reducing the time frame for the provision of services, the number of mandatory face-to-face visits when receiving services, the number of required documents submitted, as well as expanding the list of services provided without the personal presence of citizens, and increasing the share of mass socially significant services provided in electronic form, including in a proactive format.

    During the experiment, a change management system for the provision of services, services, and the implementation of life situations, a system for prompt response to cases of reduced quality of services, services, and the implementation of life situations will be formed and tested. For these purposes, optimized standards for the provision of services and the implementation of life situations will be developed and approved.

    The experiment will be carried out as part of the implementation of the socio-economic development initiative “State for the People”.

    Its participants will include the Ministry of Digital Development, the Ministry of Economic Development, other federal government bodies involved in the implementation of the “State for People” initiative, the Analytical Center under the Government, the Corporation for Small and Medium-Sized Entrepreneurship, the Social Fund, multifunctional centers, regional government bodies and local government bodies.

    “The quality of public services is not just convenience for people, but one of the most important elements of interaction between the state and citizens,” said Deputy Prime Minister and Chief of the Government Staff Dmitry Grigorenko, commenting on the decision. “The experiment to improve the quality of public services is another step towards a fundamentally new level of service. We are introducing proactive services and expanding the digital formats for their provision. The basis for changes is feedback from citizens: each review is taken into account, each signal is a reason for improvement. Our goal is to make public services as simple and fast as possible, so that people feel that the state is working for them.”

    The document will be published.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Grigorenko: The digital service “life situation” now helps to choose a specialty and university

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    The “life situation” service for online university admission, available on the public services portal, now allows you to select a specialty and educational institution based on the applicant’s individual parameters: Unified State Exam scores and subjects, university location, availability of a dormitory and military department, and the desired form of study – full-time or part-time.

    The “life situations” services combine services that are necessary for people and businesses in certain circumstances, are provided comprehensively and in one place, on the public services portal. Thus, the “life situation” for admission to a university online allows you to comprehensively cover the needs of an applicant – from choosing a specialty and an educational institution taking into account individual parameters to sending documents for enrollment in a university.

    Provision of services based on life situations is part of the federal project “State for People”, which is supervised by Deputy Prime Minister – Chief of the Government Staff Dmitry Grigorenko.

    “The ‘life situation’ service for online university admission is, on the one hand, a convenient and modern tool that helps to consciously and accurately select a suitable higher education institution based on the applicant’s individual criteria. And on the other hand, it is a comprehensive digital solution that can be used by every applicant, regardless of where they live, even if it is the most remote corners of our country,” said Dmitry Grigorenko.

    The service allows a future student to compare educational programs, receive information about the competition and the number of budget places in the university of interest to him without having to search for data on the websites of different educational institutions. You can choose from more than 1 thousand universities, as well as 1.1 thousand specialties and areas of bachelor’s, specialist and basic higher education.

    Applicants can also track their positions in the competitive lists for admission and choose the universities that are most interesting to them from those that they have the passing scores to enter.

    The service is completely free and provides official data from the state system of Rosobrnadzor.

    You can submit documents for admission to a university online since June 20, without visiting the admissions office of the educational institution in person – this functionality has been available on the public services portal since 2020 and has now become part of the comprehensive “life situation” solution for admission to a university online. During this time, more than 1.7 million people have used this opportunity.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Alexander Novak: To increase labor productivity, businesses need to improve efficiency

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak took part in Sber’s business breakfast on the topic of “Rates against growth: what will the coming year be like?” as part of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum.

    Alexander Novak spoke about the state’s participation in the development of entrepreneurship, including through national projects and the creation of infrastructure in the form of “My Business” centers. He outlined the tasks for the near future, taking into account the downward trend in inflation in Russia, the implementation of which can move the economy from the stage of controlled cooling to growth. This is a reduction in the key rate of the Central Bank and an increase in labor productivity.

    To increase labor productivity, businesses need to improve efficiency, including switching to lean manufacturing and implementing modern digital technologies.

    “The state is ready to lend a shoulder, but we must change our consciousness. And everyone who is engaged in business – from small and medium to large businesses – must accept the growth of labor productivity as a national idea. To do this, we need to introduce modern equipment: machine tools, robotic technologies, artificial intelligence,” the Deputy Prime Minister emphasized.

    Regarding the key rate, Alexander Novak noted that indicators show the need to reduce it and move from a controlled cooling of the economy to the stage of its heating.

    “We must not miss the moment when this needs to be done. In the last 7 weeks, annual inflation has been at 2.6%, which is below the Central Bank’s target. The real rate is now higher than in many countries around the world and than it was at the beginning of the year. In my opinion, we need to make a decision faster that will help not freeze the economy, but give it the opportunity to move forward. This will help achieve the goals of economic sustainability and give impetus to a technological breakthrough,” said Alexander Novak.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: UPDATE: Arrests – Escape custody – Darwin CBD

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force has arrested both youths who escaped custody in the Darwin CBD earlier this afternoon.

    About 6:20pm, both youths were arrested in the Darwin CBD by members from the Dog Operations Unit, Strike Force Trident, Territory Safety Division, Fugitive Task Force and general duties after being observed by a Dog Operations Unit member on patrol.

    Patrol Dog Wedge was deployed and the two youths were apprehended a short time later with some further assistance from the public.

    Police would like to thank members of the public involved.

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Charges – Secondary supply of alcohol – Katherine

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force have charged a 58-year-old female and 80-year-old male with secondary supply of alcohol as part of a targeted operation in Katherine today.

    This morning, police executed search warrants at two separate residences within a block of units near the Katherine CBD. The operation was initiated following community concerns of ongoing supply of alcohol to individuals subject to Banned Drinking Orders (BDOs), particularly in the early hours of the morning.

    As a result of the search warrants police seized a significant quantity of alcohol and cash. They were both taken into custody and the 80-year-old male was later charged with:

    • Unauthorised sale of Liquor 
    • Possess ammunition without a license

    He was bailed to appear in Katherine Local Court on 23 July 2025.

    The 58-year-old female was charged with unauthorised sale of liquor and was bailed to appear in Katherine Local Court on 23 July 2025.

    Acting Superintendent Warren Scott said, “This type of behaviour will not be tolerated. Secondary supply is not a victimless crime, it is a serious offence carrying a maximum penalty of 3 years imprisonment. Secondary supply of alcohol undermines the BDO system, exploiting vulnerable community members.

    “It contributes directly to antisocial behaviour, fuels violence and places significant strain on emergency frontline and health services.

    “This operation forms part of a broader alcohol harm reduction strategy aimed at improving community safety and wellbeing across the Territory. Police will continue to actively target those who profit from the illegal secondary supply of alcohol, with a particular focus on those who sell to people prohibited from purchasing it.”

    Northern Territory Police Force are committed to working with partner agencies and the community to disrupt illegal alcohol supply and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.

    Anyone with information on the illicit secondary supply of alcohol in the community are urged to report it to police by either calling 131 444 or making an online police report at https://pfes.nt.gov.au/reportonline. You can anonymously report crime via Crime Stoppers by calling 1800 333 000 or via their online portal at https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi: China, New Zealand should place greater emphasis on cooperation

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    Xi: China, New Zealand should place greater emphasis on cooperation

    Xinhua | June 20, 2025

    Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with New Zealand’s Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, who is on an official visit to China, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, June 20, 2025. (Xinhua/Shen Hong)

    Chinese President Xi Jinping met with New Zealand’s Prime Minister Christopher Luxon in Beijing on Friday, calling on both sides to place greater emphasis on cooperation.

    For more than 50 years, since the establishment of diplomatic ties, China-New Zealand relations have long been at the forefront of China’s relations with Western developed countries, Xi said.

    As the China-New Zealand comprehensive strategic partnership enters its second decade, both sides should work to grow the partnership and bring more benefits to the two peoples, he said.

    Xi stressed that China and New Zealand should place greater emphasis on cooperation in bilateral relations, leverage their complementary strengths, deepen trade and investment cooperation, and explore potential for cooperation in scientific and technological innovation, climate change, and infrastructure.

    He encouraged both sides to strengthen exchanges in education, culture, youth and at non-governmental and sub-national levels.

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    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SCED promotes HK in Bordeaux

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Commerce & Economic Development Algernon Yau yesterday arrived in Bordeaux, where he met representatives of local technology startups and attended the Bordeaux Wine Festival.

    On arriving in the French city, Mr Yau held a business roundtable involving representatives of startup network La French Tech Bordeaux, and Bordeaux-based technology startups. He briefed them on Hong Kong’s startup ecosystem and business-friendly environment for startups and entrepreneurs.

    He emphasised that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government is firmly committed to positioning Hong Kong as a leading innovation and technology hub where startups play a pivotal role.

    The commerce chief encouraged Bordeaux’s startup community to expand operations into Hong Kong, leveraging the city’s strategic position as a gateway to the vast markets on the Mainland and elsewhere in Asia.

    Mr Yau also paid a courtesy call on Bordeaux Mayor Pierre Hurmic, and briefed him on Hong Kong’s latest initiatives to drive economic development, including its reduction of liquor duty.

    The two officials also exchanged views on forging closer bilateral relations with regard to startups and the wine and liquor industries.

    Mr Yau’s Thursday engagements concluded with his attendance at the Bordeaux Wine Festival, France’s leading wine event. 

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Africa: 2025 National Basketball Association (NBA) Finals Presented by YouTube TV: Indiana Pacers defeat Oklahoma City Thunder, 108-91 (Recap)

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    The Indiana Pacers defeated the Oklahoma City Thunder, 108-91, in Game 6 of the 2025 NBA Finals (www.NBA.com). Pascal Siakam (Cameroon) led the Pacers with 16 points and 13 rebounds while Obi Toppin finished with 20 points (4 3PM), 6 rebounds, and 2 steals in the victory. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander totaled 21 points and 4 rebounds for the Thunder in the loss.

    The best-of-seven NBA Finals series between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Indiana Pacers is tied, 3-3. Game 7 will take place on Sunday, June 22 at 8:00 p.m. ET (Monday, June 23 at 2 a.m. CAT) on ESPN, Canal+ and NBA League Pass live from Paycom Center in Oklahoma City.

    – on behalf of National Basketball Association (NBA).

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    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Uneven HPV uptake in some areas increases cervical cancer risk

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Uneven HPV uptake in some areas increases cervical cancer risk

    UKHSA data shows inequalities in HPV vaccination uptake in different areas and regions across the country

    As Cervical Cancer Screening Awareness week begins, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) warns that variations in geographical coverage of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine in adolescents across England is leaving young women in some areas with less protection against cervical and some other cancers.

    Despite the opportunities to eliminate cervical cancer, the latest UKHSA HPV coverage data in adolescents 2023 to 2024 shows inequalities in vaccination uptake in different areas and regions across the country:

    • HPV coverage for female year 10 students by NHS commissioning region was lowest in London (64.9%) and highest in the South East (82.7%)
    • HPV coverage for male year 10 students by NHS commissioning region was lowest in London (58.9%) and highest in the South East (77.3%)
    • HPV coverage for female year 10 students at local authority level ranged from 38.7% (Lambeth) to 97.6% (Northumberland)
    • HPV coverage for male year 10 students at local authority level ranged from 28.2% (Lambeth) to 92.2% (West Berkshire)

    Data provided by Cancer Research UK on Cervical cancer incidence statistics report that rates in England are 65% higher in the most deprived quintile compared with the least.

    Research has shown that receiving the HPV vaccine before age 16 provides significantly stronger immune responses and greater protection against HPV-related cancers. While early vaccination is optimal, getting a HPV vaccination later as part of the catch-up programme still provides strong protection against HPV-related cancers.

    For those who missed their school HPV vaccinations in year 8 and 9, catch-up options remain available and are highly effective. Anyone who missed their HPV vaccination, now just a single jab, can still receive it for free until their 25th birthday through their GP surgery; this also applies to boys born after 1 September 2006.

    HPV vaccinations are also offered to boys in school in year 8 and 9, and similarly help protect them against HPV infection and its complications, including genital warts, head and neck cancers (which includes mouth and throat) and genital cancers. But boys also have an important role to play in helping eliminate cervical cancer by being vaccinated and not passing on the HPV virus when they become sexually active.

    Dr Sharif Ismail, Consultant Epidemiologist at UKHSA, said:

    The HPV vaccine, now just a single dose offered in schools, is one of the most powerful tools we have for cancer prevention. Every vaccination represents a young person with better protection against the devastating impact of HPV-related cancers and we must do more to ensure that no teenage girl or boy, young woman or man is denied that protection no matter where they live.

    Although we have seen some increase in the number of young people being vaccinated, uptake is still well below pre-Covid pandemic levels. Over a quarter of young people, many thousands, are missing out on this potentially life-saving vaccine, which protects not only against cervical cancer but all young adults, men and women, against genital warts and some genital cancers, as well as mouth and throat cancers.

    We’re calling on all parents to return their children’s HPV vaccination consent forms promptly. This simple action could protect your child from developing cancer in the future. For young adults up to age 25, who missed their school vaccinations, please speak to your GP about catch-up options. It’s never too late to get protected. 

    And it’s important to stress that even if you’ve had the HPV vaccine, it’s vital you still attend your cervical screening appointments when invited. Both vaccination and screening together give you your best chance of protection against cervical cancer.

    While the HPV vaccine provides excellent protection, attending cervical screening appointments remains crucial, regardless of vaccination status. Screening can detect abnormal cells before they develop into cancer, allowing for early treatment and prevention.

    Cancer Research UK’s chief executive, Michelle Mitchell, said:

    Thanks to the power of research and the efforts of NHS staff, a future where almost nobody gets cervical cancer is in sight. This progress hinges on people’s access to 2 lifesaving offers: HPV vaccination and screening. Together, they give the best protection against the disease.

    Latest data reveals an unequal uptake of the HPV vaccine across England, highlighting the need for local authorities and health services to work together and improve access to these lifesaving opportunities. Beating cervical cancer means beating it for everyone, so I encourage all parents and guardians to ensure young people don’t miss out on getting the HPV vaccine. And if you receive your cervical screening invite, don’t ignore it.

    Dr Amanda Doyle OBE, National Director for Primary Care and Community Services at NHS England, said: 

    The NHS HPV vaccination programme has already helped save thousands of lives and we need to go further to boost uptake of HPV vaccines and cervical screening to help eliminate cervical cancer in England by 2040.

    If we can ensure that almost every Year 10 girl in some areas is protected and extremely unlikely to ever develop cervical cancer, we need to match this in every part of the country. It’s vital for boys and young men to be vaccinated too. Rates in boys still lag behind girls and HPV causes thousands of cancers in men as well as things like genital warts. 

    I would urge all parents to give their consent for their child to be vaccinated and it’s important to remember that those that remain unvaccinated and have left school can still get vital protection by contacting their GP practice to catch up before their 25th birthday. With vaccination being just one dose, it is easier than ever to ensure young people get protection.

    Updates to this page

    Published 20 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: May 2025 Transaction Data

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    May 2025 Transaction Data

    This data provides information about the number and types of applications that HM Land Registry completed in May 2025.

    NicoElNino/Shutterstock.com

    Please note this data shows what HM Land Registry has been able to process during the time period covered and is not necessarily a reflection of market activity.

    In May:

    • HM Land Registry completed over 1,817,910 applications to change or query the Land Register 
    • the South East topped the table of regional applications with 412,654

    HM Land Registry completed 1,817,911 applications in May compared with 1,811,924 in April 2025 and 1,948,692 last May 2024, of which: 

    • 265,402 were applications for register updates compared with 285,129 in April
    • 1,069,738 were applications for an official copy of a register compared with 1,058,989 in April
    • 8172,964 were search and hold queries (official searches) compared with 158,279 in April
    • 80,298 were transactions for value compared with 78,380 in April
    • 13,557 were postal applications from non-account holders compared with 14,592 in April

    Applications by region and country 

    Region/country March applications April applications May applications
    South East 444,651 408,047 412,654
    Greater London 370,483 336,247 342,449
    North West 227,167 208,094 207,014
    South West 191,416 174,721 174,774
    West Midlands 169,372 155,674 153,174
    Yorkshire and the Humber 157,393 145,196 144,125
    East Midlands 145,134 133,700 133,949
    North 96,664 90,391 90,354
    East Anglia 84,604 77,323 77,428
    Isles of Scilly 77 53 71
    Wales 87,088 82,370 81,787
    England and Wales (not assigned) 106 108 132
    Total 1,974,155 1,811,924 1,817,911

    Top 5 local authority areas 

    May 2025 applications

    Top 5 local authority areas May applications
    Birmingham 27,667
    City of Westminster 23,786
    Buckinghamshire 20,870
    Leeds 20,414
    North Yorkshire 19,813

    Top 5 customers 

    May 2025 applications

    Top 5 customers May applications
    Infotrack Limited 197,903
    Enact 33,244
    Landmark Information Group Ltd 32,702
    O’Neill Patient 30,085
    Orbital Witness Limited 24,884

    Access the full dataset on our Use land and property data service.

    Next publication 

    Transaction Data is published on the 15th working day of each month. The June 2025 data will be published at 11am on Monday 21 July 2025.

    Updates to this page

    Published 20 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: China Contributes to WFP’s Lifesaving Food Assistance for Rohingya Refugees in Bangladesh

    Source: World Food Programme

    DHAKA – The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has welcomed a contribution from the Government of the People’s Republic of China, provided through the China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA).

    The occasion was marked by a handover ceremony held at WFP Bangladesh Country Office in Dhaka.

    The contribution will enable WFP to procure 2,100 metric tons of fortified rice, pulses, and cooking oil – enough to provide a three-month food ration to around 45,000 Rohingya refugees living in the world’s largest refugee camp in Cox’s Bazar.

    “This generous funding from China could not have come at a more critical time,” said Dom Scalpelli, WFP Country Director. “With humanitarian needs rising and resources under immense pressure, this contribution allows us to continue delivering lifesaving food assistance to some of the most vulnerable people in the world.”

    “This will undoubtedly play a positive role in improving the living conditions of the Rohingya people in Bangladesh and alleviating the humanitarian crisis,” said H.E. Dr. Liu Yuyin, Chargé d’Affaires a.i., of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China.

    Now in its eighth year, the Rohingya crisis has seen the refugee population in Bangladesh surpass one million. A recent influx of 150,000 new arrivals has placed further strain on overstretched humanitarian operations and limited resources.

    To maintain full food rations for the Rohingya population over the next 12 months, WFP requires an additional US$120 million. Without new funding, this vital assistance will run out by the end of October 2025.

    “We hope this contribution marks not only continued engagement, but a deepening of China’s role in responding to this ongoing crisis,” added Scalpelli.

    # # #

    About WFP: 

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

    Follow us on X @wfp_bangladesh, Facebook @WFPinBangladesh, Instagram @wfp_bangladesh  

    MIL OSI United Nations News