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  • Israel Intercepts 30 Iranian Drones as Arab Nations Call for De-escalation

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Israel’s military intercepted and eliminated 30 drones from Iran overnight, the Israel Defense Forces said Tuesday, describing it as the least impactful night by the Iranian attacks since the beginning of this operation. The IDF also reported Iran fired several ballistic missiles toward Israel, though the exact number was not specified.

    Around 20 missiles fired from Iran on Tuesday triggered sirens across Israel, including northern and southern areas, central Israel, Jerusalem, and the West Bank. Reports indicated a direct hit in central Israel, with property damage confirmed by Israeli police, though authorities have not officially confirmed the strike.

    The foreign ministers of 20 Arab and Muslim countries, including Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Turkey, and Pakistan, denounced Israel’s attacks on Iran and called for de-escalation in a joint statement. The ministers expressed grave concern over the dangerous escalation in the region and urged all parties to settle disputes peacefully while respecting state sovereignty and territorial integrity. They also emphasized the importance of creating a Middle East free of nuclear weapons and urged countries to join the Non-Proliferation Treaty.

    US President Donald Trump called for the immediate evacuation of all of Tehran, issuing the warning shortly after Israeli forces told residents in northeastern Tehran to leave ahead of planned strikes. The Pentagon announced deployment of additional military capabilities to West Asia to enhance defensive posture amid the escalating conflict.

    Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz later clarified that Israel has no intention of deliberately harming Tehran’s residents. “There is no intention to physically harm the residents of Tehran as the murderous dictator does to the residents of Israel,” Katz said.

    Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed Monday that the strikes have set Iran’s nuclear program back “years” and said he is in daily contact with Trump, who left the G7 summit in Canada early amid reports he was heading to Washington to work on a ceasefire deal.

  • Coal Ministry achieves milestone with allocation of 200th coal block

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Ministry of Coal on Tuesday announced a historic milestone with the allocation of its 200th coal mine under the commercial mining initiative, highlighting the government’s push to transform and liberalize India’s coal sector.

    “The issuance of the allocation order for the Marwatola–II coal block to Singhal Business Private Limited reaffirms the Ministry’s commitment to advancing sectoral reforms, fostering private participation, and bolstering national self-reliance in coal production. With this achievement, the Ministry continues to pave the way for a more resilient, transparent, and future-ready coal ecosystem,” the Coal Ministry said in a statement.

    The Ministry added that it stands steadfast in its commitment to nurturing an environment conducive to investment, reducing procedural impediments, and enabling the expeditious operationalisation of coal blocks across the country.

    “This milestone, reflects the Ministry’s visionary approach – one that seeks not only to enhance domestic coal production but also to rebalance the national energy matrix by reducing dependence on imports and strengthening long-term energy security. The cumulative effect of such initiatives bolsters both economic growth and strategic autonomy,” the Ministry said.

    This achievement also shows the success of recent reforms, including the introduction of commercial coal mining, the single-window clearance system, and the use of digital governance tools. Together, these initiatives have redefined the coal sector’s landscape, creating new opportunities for private enterprises and driving India’s shift toward a more sustainable and secure energy future.

  • Israel says it killed Iran’s wartime chief, Khamenei’s close aide

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) on Tuesday announced that it had eliminated Ali Shadmani, Iran’s wartime chief of staff and close aide of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in an overnight strike.

    “Following accurate intelligence received by the Intelligence Branch and a sudden opportunity during the night, Air Force fighter jets attacked a manned headquarters in the heart of Tehran and killed Ali Shadmani, the Chief of Staff of the War, the most senior military commander and the man closest to Iranian leader Ali Khamenei,” the IDF said in a post on X.

    This is the second time in recent weeks that Israel has targeted and killed a high-ranking military commander of the regime, with an aim to disrupt Iran’s military leadership.

    According to the Israeli military, Shadmani served as Chief of War Staff and Commander of the Armed Forces Emergency Command and commanded the Revolutionary Guards and the Iranian army.

    “Prior to the assassination of his predecessor, Shadmani served as deputy commander of the Hatem Al-Aniba Emergency Command and head of the Operations Department of the Armed Forces General Staff. Shadmani’s assassination joins a series of assassinations of the highest military command in Iran and constitutes another blow to the chain of command of the Iranian armed forces,” the IDF added.

    The IDF further asserted that the “Khatem al-Anbiya” emergency command, under the assassinated Iranian officer’s command, was responsible for managing combat and approving Iranian fire plans.

    In his various roles, the military said that Shadmani “directly influenced” Iranian fire plans to harm Israel.

    Shadmani earlier replaced Gen. Gholam Ali Rashid, who was killed on Friday when Israel launched ‘Operation Rising Lion’ against Iran, a targeted military operation to roll back the Iranian threat of nuclear weapons to Israel’s very survival.

    “In view of Lt. Gen. Gholamali Rashid’s martyrdom at the hands of the vile Zionist regime, and in light of Major General Ali Shadmani’s meritorious services & valuable experience, I confer the rank of Major Gen. & appoint him Commander of the Khatam al-Anbiya Central HQ,” Iranian Supreme leader Khamenei had posted on X.

    Earlier in the day, Israel also announced the destruction of several surface-to-surface missiles and surface-to-air missile launchers of the Iranian regime as the hostilities between both nations escalated.

    “Dozens of infrastructure for storing and launching surface-to-surface missiles and surface-to-air missile launchers of the Iranian regime were destroyed. Last night, Air Force fighter jets completed several waves of attacks against dozens of Iranian regime military targets in western Iran. As part of the waves of attacks, the Air Force attacked dozens of infrastructures for storing and launching surface-to-surface missiles, UAV storage sites, and surface-to-air missile launchers in western Iran,” said the Israel Defence Force (IDF) in a post on X.

    The Israel-Iran conflict entered its fifth day, and hostilities between the two nations continued to escalate as several missiles from Iran were fired at Israel, triggering air raid sirens in Haifa and dozens of other cities and communities across northern Israel and the occupied Golan Heights, confirmed by the Israeli military.

    (IANS)

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: British aerospace manufacturers to benefit from UK-US trade deal

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    British aerospace manufacturers to benefit from UK-US trade deal

    British aerospace manufacturers to benefit from UK-US trade deal as further details announced

    • UK aerospace sector to see tariffs removed completely as further progress is made on the UK-US trade deal
    • Benefits of deal to be felt by UK auto sector also, who will be able to export to the US by the end of the month under the newly lowered 10% tariff quota 
    • It will save hundreds of millions annually for plane and car makers with lowered tariffs and protect tens of thousands of jobs across both sectors , delivering on our Plan for Change

    For the first time, the US has committed to reducing tariffs on UK aerospace goods such as engines and similar aircraft parts from the general 10% tariff being applied to all other countries, which is expected to come into force by the end of the month.

    This deal is a huge win for the UK’s world-class aerospace sector currently facing additional 10% tariffs, helping make companies such as Rolls Royce more competitive and allowing them to continue to be at the cutting edge of innovation. 

    British car manufacturers can also breathe a sigh of relief as they will be able to export to the US at a 10% tariff rate as part of the recently agreed landmark UK-US trade deal by the end of the month.  

    The UK is the only country to have secured this agreement with the US which reduces car export tariffs from 27.5%, saves car manufacturers hundreds of millions a year, and protects tens of thousands of jobs, delivering on our Plan for Change.

    Business and Trade Secretary, Jonathan Reynolds said: 

    We agreed this deal with the US to ensure jobs and livelihoods in some of our most vital sectors were protected, and since then we have been focused on delivering those benefits to businesses. 

    Bringing trade deals into force can take several months, yet we are delivering on the first set of agreements in a matter of weeks. And we won’t stop there. 

    As part of our Plan for Change, this government is doing all it can to reduce the pressures on businesses by lowering costs, speeding up delivery times and helping them to navigate in a time of global uncertainty.  

    Chief Executive of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), Mike Hawes said:

    This is great news for the UK automotive industry, helping the sector avoid the severest level of tariffs and enabling many manufacturers to resume deliveries imminently.

    We wait to see the full details of the deal and how it will be administered but this will be a huge reassurance to those that work in the sector and bolster the confidence of our important US customers.

    The fact the UK has secured a deal, ahead of many competitors, and which makes automotive a priority, should be recognised as a significant achievement.

    Thanks to the UK-US deal, the UK is the only country to be exempt from the global tariff of 50% on steel and aluminium. As the Prime Minister and President Trump have again confirmed, we will continue to go further and make progress towards 0% tariffs on core steel products as agreed.  

    We have agreed reciprocal access to 13,000 metric tonnes beef for both US and British farmers – meaning the UK can export to the US too. We have been clear that any US imports will need to meet UK food safety standards, and that has not changed since we agreed this deal.

    Both countries remain focused on securing significantly preferential outcomes for the UK pharmaceutical sector and work will continue to protect industry from any further tariffs imposed as part of Section 232 investigations. 

    This deal is one of many international agreements this government has secured recently to boost our economy, including a trade deal with India which will add £4.8 billion to the UK economy and £2.2 billion in wages every year and a renewed EU deal which will add nearly £9 billion to the UK economy by 2040 on SPS and emissions measures alone. 

    Today’s announcement is the result of work happening at pace between both governments to lower the burden on UK businesses, especially the sectors most impacted by the tariffs. We will update Parliament on the implementation of quotas on US beef and ethanol, part of our commitment to the US under this deal.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Be summer-job ready with the HMRC app

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Be summer-job ready with the HMRC app

    Download the HMRC app for summer job success

    • Young people applying for a job this summer can download the HMRC app for instant access to the tax and salary details they need
    • More than 1.2 million young people aged 25 and under have downloaded the HMRC app to date
    • The HMRC app can be used to access an individual’s National Insurance number, employer history, tax code and pay details

    Young people finishing school, college or university and hoping to earn extra cash after their exams can download the HMRC app to get the details they need to be summer-job ready, says HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC).

    Jobseekers who use the HMRC app have their employment history to hand to get their job application in promptly. Once they start working, the HMRC app means they will have their tax code and National Insurance (NI) number to give to their employer to ensure they are paid correctly and pay the correct amount of tax, putting more money in the pockets of working people

    Between May and August last year, on average 40,000 additional young people were employed each month compared to September to December. Whether young people are looking for work in the hospitality industry, leisure, retail or fruit picking, downloading the HMRC app makes applying for a job simple, giving them instant access to the tax and salary details they need with minimal fuss.

    Young people make up a fifth of all HMRC app users with more than 1.2 million people aged 25 and under downloading it by April 2025.

    Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC’s Chief Customer Officer, said:

    Earning extra cash is important when young people have down time from studying. Downloading the HMRC app is a simple way to ensure they can apply for their job quickly and get on with earning extra cash.

    One of the most important pieces of information jobseekers need when starting a new job is their NI number. More than 146,000 people called the National Insurance helpline in the 12 months to the beginning of April reporting they had lost or forgotten their NI number.

    It’s quicker and easier for individuals to access their NI number via the HMRC app. They can download it to keep it safely in their phone’s digital wallet to use whenever it’s needed. In the 12 months to April 2025, there were almost 90,000 NI number downloads by app users aged 25 and under.

    Young people should keep their National Insurance number safe in their digital wallets and only share it with people, such as an employer, to help prevent possible identity fraud.

    HMRC is also reminding young people starting a new job to check their payslips regularly to ensure they’re getting paid what they’re entitled to receive under National Minimum Wage requirements. If they have any concerns they are not getting the correct pay, they can contact HMRC or ACAS to make a complaint.

    Further Information

    More information about the HMRC app. 

    People can download the app at the App Store or Google Play. Online reviews for the HMRC app is currently [4.8] stars on the App Store, and [4.6] stars on Google Play. 

    Once a customer has signed into the app for the first time, they can use facial recognition, their fingerprint or a 6-digit pin to get fast and secure access. 

    Customers who don’t have a Government Gateway user ID and password and may need evidence to prove their identity for example photo ID such as a UK passport or UK driving licence. 

    We’re urging customers never to share their Government Gateway user ID and password. Someone using these details could steal from them or make a fraudulent claim in their name.

    The current National Minimum Wage hourly rates, which increased on 1 April 2025, are:

    • Age 21 or over (National Living Wage): £12.21
    • Age 18 to 20: £10.00
    • Age under 18: £7.55

    Further detail and previous rates can be found on GOV.UK

    Latest earnings and employment statistics May 2025

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: IMF Executive Board Concludes 2025 Article IV Consultation with Namibia

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    June 17, 2025

    • Namibia’s economy faces challenges from heightened global trade policy tensions, increased weather shocks, a structural shift in the global diamond market, and high structural unemployment.
    • Ensuring macroeconomic stability requires maintaining fiscal prudence while creating space for growth-enhancing measures, managing the monetary policy to safeguard the peg, and enhancing the resilience of the financial sector.
    • To generate employment through inclusive private sector-led growth that is weather-shock-resilient, bold structural reforms are essential. Additionally, a comprehensive strategy is needed to leverage the potential opportunities presented by recent oil discoveries.

    Washington, DC: The Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) completed the Article IV Consultation for Namibia.[1] The authorities have consented to the publication of the Staff Report prepared for this consultation.[2]

    Namibia’s economic growth decelerated from 5.4 percent in 2022 to 3.7 percent in 2024 as a decline in production in response to lower diamond prices outweighed momentum stemming from rising gold and uranium prices. Oil exploration plateaued in 2024 following a spike in 2023, while agriculture contracted sharply due to the drought of 2023–24, the most severe in a century. Inflation has fallen, reflecting a drop in food and fuel prices in international markets.

    Looking ahead, growth is projected to remain subdued in the near and medium term. The end of the drought is expected to boost growth in 2025; however, increased global trade policy uncertainty, particularly related to U.S. tariffs, and the weak diamond market will dampen momentum, with growth forecast at 3¾ percent for 2025 and 2026. Over the medium term, growth is projected to be about 3 percent, constrained by structural rigidities despite increased public capital expenditure. Average CPI inflation is projected to ease to 4.1 percent in 2025 and remain around 4.5 percent in the medium term.

    Risks to the outlook are tilted to the downside. Key external downside risks include commodity price fluctuations, further worsening of global trade tensions, a deepening of economic fragmentation, and tighter global financial conditions. Domestic downside risks include social discontent resulting from continued high unemployment and inequality and increased volatility associated with weather shocks. Upside risks include an easing of global trade policy tensions and faster development of oil, gas, and green hydrogen projects.

    Executive Board Assessment[3]

    Executive Directors agreed with the thrust of the staff appraisal. They took positive note of Namibia’s economic resilience, with slowing inflation and improved external position, despite the challenging external environment and welcomed the new government’s commitment to fostering inclusive growth and build resilience to climate shocks. Noting the subdued growth outlook reflecting global trade policy uncertainty and domestic structural rigidities, high unemployment, and inequality, Directors emphasized the need for further efforts to harness Namibia’s economic potential and raise per capita income by promoting a private sector led, inclusive, weather resilient, and diversified economy.

    Directors welcomed the authorities’ commitment to maintaining fiscal discipline and creating space for growth enhancing measures. They called for sustained and larger fiscal consolidation over the medium term to entrench the favorable public debt dynamics and strengthen the external position. Directors stressed the need to accelerate fiscal reforms including enacting a comprehensive civil service reform to contain the wage bill, state owned enterprise reforms, strengthening public financial and investment management, and enhancing tax administration to solidify fiscal consolidation. At the same time, they recommended increasing public investment to enhance growth, expanding social protection, and building resilience to weather shocks. They encouraged the authorities to continue their efforts to establish, with Fund technical assistance, a strong governance framework for the sovereign wealth fund and a natural resource management framework to safeguard long term macroeconomic stability and support economic development.

    In the absence of capital outflows, Directors recommended gradually aligning the policy rate with that of the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) to safeguard the currency peg, taking advantage of SARB’s rate reductions. They stressed, however, that the Bank of Namibia should remain vigilant to economic conditions.

    Directors welcomed the continued progress in enhancing financial sector resilience, notably through the introduction of the bank resolution policy. They encouraged the authorities to continue to monitor risks including from the sovereign bank nexus and household debt. Directors recommended finalizing additional policy measures, including counter cyclical capital buffers and strengthened cooperation on crisis resolution. Continued efforts to strengthen the AML/CFT framework are crucial to expedite removal from the FATF grey list.

    Directors highlighted that bold structural reforms are essential to fostering sustainable, inclusive, and private sector led growth and improving external competitiveness. They recommended addressing key barriers, including by improving human capital and reducing skill mismatches, enhancing the business climate, strengthening governance, and fostering digitalization. Directors supported developing a set of policies aimed at harnessing prospective oil, gas, and green hydrogen for economic diversification and job creation.

    It is expected that the next Article IV Consultation with Namibia will be held on the standard 12-month cycle.

     

    Namibia: Selected Economic Indicators, 2022–30

    Population (2024, million):                                      3.0                           Per-capita GDP (2024, USD):                                                        4471.8

    Quota (current, millions of SDR, percent of total):  54.6                          Poverty (2015, percent of national poverty line):                         17.4

    Main exports:                                                          Diamonds, Fish, Gold, Uranium, Copper.

    Key export markets:                                                South Africa, Botswana, China, Zambia, and Belgium.

    2022

    2023

    2024

    2025

    2026

    2027

    2028

    2029

    2030

    Est.

    Proj.
                       

    Percent change, unless otherwise specified

    Output

    		                  

    Real GDP growth

    5.4

    4.4

    3.7

    3.8

    3.7

    2.9

    3.0

    3.0

    3.0

    Nominal GDP growth

    12.2

    11.3

    7.1

    8.8

    9.3

    7.4

    7.6

    7.6

    7.6

    Nominal GDP (billions of USD)

    205.6

    228.9

    245.1

    266.8

    291.7

    313.4

    337.1

    362.5

    389.9

    Nominal GDP per capita (USD)

    4,407

    4,236

    4,472

    4,673

    4,898

    5,037

    5,192

    5,346

    5,513

    GDP Deflator

    6.4

    6.6

    3.3

    4.9

    5.5

    4.4

    4.4

    4.4

    4.4

    Prices

    Consumer prices (average)

    6.1

    5.9

    4.2

    4.1

    4.5

    4.5

    4.5

    4.5

    4.5

    Consumer prices (end of period)

    6.9

    5.3

    3.4

    4.5

    4.5

    4.5

    4.5

    4.5

    4.5

    Percent of GDP, unless otherwise specified

    Central Government Budget 1/

    Revenue and grants 2/

    30.5

    35.1

    36.5

    33.2

    32.8

    33.1

    33.3

    33.3

    33.3

      of which: SACU receipts

    6.7

    10.5

    11.2

    7.7

    7.9

    8.2

    8.5

    8.5

    8.4

    Expenditure

    36.1

    37.6

    40.4

    38.8

    37.7

    36.8

    36.6

    36.5

    36.5

      Of which: personnel expenditure

    14.9

    13.9

    14.1

    13.5

    12.8

    12.3

    12.2

    12.2

    12.2

      Of which: capital expenditure and net lending

    3.1

    2.9

    3.9

    4.0

    3.9

    3.5

    3.5

    3.5

    3.5

    Primary balance

    -1.2

    2.7

    1.2

    -0.5

    0.2

    1.4

    1.7

    1.7

    1.7

    Overall fiscal balance

    -5.7

    -2.4

    -3.9

    -5.7

    -4.8

    -3.7

    -3.3

    -3.3

    -3.3

    Overall fiscal balance ex. SACU

    -12.4

    -12.8

    -15.1

    -13.4

    -12.8

    -12.0

    -11.8

    -11.7

    -11.7

    Public debt, gross

    67.5

    66.0

    66.2

    62.3

    62.2

    62.0

    61.1

    60.1

    59.3

    Investment and Savings

    Investment

    20.1

    27.3

    25.6

    22.1

    19.0

    17.8

    16.8

    16.8

    16.8

      Public

    2.6

    2.4

    2.4

    2.6

    2.5

    2.3

    2.3

    2.3

    2.3

      Others (incl. SOEs)

    14.1

    23.7

    21.3

    19.5

    16.5

    15.5

    14.5

    14.5

    14.5

      Change inventories

    3.4

    1.2

    2.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    Savings

    7.3

    12.0

    10.3

    6.6

    5.4

    5.2

    4.6

    5.1

    5.5

      Public

    -3.2

    -0.2

    0.1

    -1.3

    -1.1

    -0.4

    0.1

    0.2

    0.2

      Others (incl. SOEs)

    10.6

    12.2

    10.2

    7.9

    6.5

    5.6

    4.5

    4.8

    5.3

    Percent change, unless otherwise specified

    Money and Credit

    Broad money

    0.0

    10.7

    9.7

    9.1

    8.6

    7.9

    8.4

    7.7

    7.6

    Credit to the private sector

    4.2

    2.8

    3.5

    4.9

    6.2

    4.1

    5.4

    5.5

    5.5

    BoN repo rate (percent) 3/

    6.75

    7.75

    7.00

    6.75

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …
     

                                                                                       Percent of GDP, unless otherwise specified

    Balance of Payments

    		                    

    Current account balance

    -12.6

    -15.3

    -15.3

    -15.5

    -13.7

    -12.6

    -12.1

    -11.7

    -11.3

    Financial account balance

    -13.3

    -15.9

    -17.2

    -9.3

    -15.4

    -13.6

    -12.3

    -11.8

    -11.8

    Gross official reserves

    22.3

    23.2

    25.1

    18.4

    20.1

    21.2

    21.5

    21.6

    22.2

    Reserves (in months of imports)

    3.9

    3.8

    4.4

    3.4

    3.8

    4.1

    4.2

    4.2

    4.5

    External debt

    71.7

    76.0

    74.6

    68.0

    67.5

    66.8

    65.5

    63.6

    61.8

    of which: public (incl. IMF) 4/

    17.5

    16.6

    14.7

    7.9

    7.3

    6.8

    6.4

    6.0

    5.5

    Exchange rate

    REER (percent, yoy)

    -3.6

    -6.3

    2.7

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    Average exchange rate (Namibian dollar per USD)

    16.4

    18.5

    18.3

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    Sources: Namibian authorities; and IMF staff calculations.

    1/ Figures are for the fiscal year as a percent of GDP. The fiscal year runs from April 1 to March 31.

    2/ Revenue excludes the line “transactions in assets and liabilities” classified as part of revenue in budget documents. It captures proceeds from asset sales, realized valuation gains from holdings of foreign currency deposits, and other items which are not classified as revenue according to the IMF’s Government Finance Statistics Manual 2010.

    3/ Figure for 2025 is as of April 16, 2025.

    4/ The ratio is calculated by dividing the stock as March 31 by nominal GDP for the fiscal year.
                                           

    [1] Under Article IV of the IMF’s Articles of Agreement, the IMF holds bilateral discussions with members, usually every year. A staff team visits the country, collects economic and financial information, and discusses with officials the country’s economic developments and policies. On return to headquarters, the staff prepares a report, which forms the basis for discussion by the Executive Board.

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

    [3] At the conclusion of the discussion, the Managing Director, as Chair of the Board, summarizes the views of Executive Directors, and this summary is transmitted to the country’s authorities. An explanation of any qualifiers used in summings up can be found here: http://www.IMF.org/external/np/sec/misc/qualifiers.htm.

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Kwabena Akuamoah-Boateng

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

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/06/13/pr-25198-namibia-imf-executive-board-concludes-2025-art-iv-consult

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi says China-Kyrgyzstan cooperation holds great potential

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Xi says China-Kyrgyzstan cooperation holds great potential

    Xinhua | June 17, 2025

    Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday said that cooperation between China and Kyrgyzstan holds great potential, urging the two countries to scale up trade and investment and expand cooperation in emerging sectors.

    Xi made the remarks in a meeting with Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov on the sidelines of the second China-Central Asia Summit in the Kazakh capital of Astana.

    Xi called on the two sides to advance high-quality construction of the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway and foster new drivers of growth in clean energy, green minerals and artificial intelligence.

    China is ready to join Kyrgyzstan to continue to firmly support each other on issues concerning their respective core interests and major concerns, he added. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CSSA caseload for May 2025

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    CSSA caseload for May 2025
    The total CSSA caseload at the end of May stood at 195 436 (see attached table), with a total of 261 668 recipients.

    Analysed by case nature, low-earnings cases registered a month-to-month decrease of 0.9 per cent to 1 331 cases. Single parent cases dropped by 0.3 per cent to 18 882 cases. Permanent disability cases declined by 0.1 per cent to 16 597 cases.
        
    Unemployment cases registered an increase of 0.4 per cent to 16 157 cases. Ill-health cases increased by 0.3 per cent to 27 775 cases. Old age cases remained steady at 110 773 cases.
    Issued at HKT 17:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Government announces second batch of projects supported by RAISe+ Scheme

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Government announces second batch of projects supported by RAISe+ Scheme 
    The projects supported by the Scheme cover a wide range of innovation and technology (I&T) fields, including health and medical sciences, new materials and new energy, AI and robotics, electrical and electronic engineering, advanced manufacturing, Chinese medicine, and computer science/information technology (see Annex). These projects showcase Hong Kong’s robust research and development (R&D) capability and the diverse development of its I&T ecosystem.
     
    The Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Professor Sun Dong, welcomed the second batch of projects supported by the RAISe+ Scheme. He said, “The successful approval of the second batch of projects marks the Government’s continued commitment to promote commercialisation of local R&D outcomes through the RAISe+ Scheme. The Scheme fosters effective collaboration among the Government, industry, academia and research sectors, injecting new momentum into local innovation and technology development which in turn expedites the development of Hong Kong into an international I&T centre.”
     
    The ITC will continue to work closely with the universities and industry for the smooth implementation of the projects supported by the RAISe+ Scheme, with the aspiration of nurturing more I&T projects and start-ups with potential through the Scheme, thereby further driving Hong Kong’s high-quality development.
     
    With a funding allocation of $10 billion, the RAISe+ Scheme was launched in 2023 and aims to fund at least 100 research teams, which are from universities funded by the University Grants Committee and have good potential to become successful start-ups on a matching basis. Funding support from $10 million to $100 million will be provided to each approved project. Assessment criteria include the I&T component of the project, the commercial viability of project outcomes, the technical and management capability of the team, relevance of the project with government policies or in the project’s overall interest to the community, as well as the financial considerations of the project. The ITC announced the first batch of 24 projects supported by the RAISe+ Scheme in May 2024 with the total funding amounting to over $1 billion.
     
    Details of the scheme are available on its dedicated website (www.itf.gov.hk/en/raiseplusIssued at HKT 17:00

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Alert issued on suspicious calls

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Security Bureau today reminded the public to stay vigilant against suspicious calls purportedly made by Security Bureau staff, alleging that the citizen was suspected of breaking the law and required to visit the bureau office in person for verification.

     

    The bureau solemnly clarified that this is untrue and condemned such deception tactics. The bureau has displayed an alert message on its official website to remind the public to stay vigilant against scams.

     

    In addition to reminding people not to disclose their personal information to any suspicious or unidentified individuals, the bureau stressed that in case of doubt, they should call the Anti Scam Helpline 18222 for enquiries.

     

    Those who have provided personal information to suspicious individuals or suspect they have been scammed should contact Police, the bureau added.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Protection of local workers enhanced

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Labour Department today announced the implementation, with immediate effect, of measures under the Enhanced Supplementary Labour Scheme (ESLS) to safeguard employment priority for local workers.

    After an employer submits an ESLS application, any other application submitted by the same employer within the following six months will generally not be processed except under exceptional circumstances, such as where the application is for renewal of an imported worker’s employment contract.

    In cases where ESLS applications pass initial screening, triggering the start of a four-week local recruitment process, the department will display the names of applicant companies on the Interactive Employment Service website to encourage local job seekers to apply for the jobs.

    The department will also launch a special campaign to inspect whether entities employing imported workers have continuously met the manning ratio requirement of full-time local employees to imported workers of two to one.

    In parallel, it will require employers to report information on numbers of full-time local employees and imported workers, as well as manning ratios. Any suspected violations will be investigated and, if substantiated, administrative sanctions will be imposed on the employers concerned.

    Meanwhile, the department has launched an online form on the supplementary labour scheme’s dedicated webpage to enable local employees to lodge complaints against employers over suspected violations of ESLS requirements. Members of the public may also lodge complaints by calling 2150 6363. 

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Murder investigation launched after fatal stabbing in Hackney

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A murder investigation has been launched following the death of a woman at an address in Dumont Road, Hackney.

    On Tuesday, 17 June at 04:57hrs officers were called to reports of a gas explosion with a person trapped inside an address.

    Officers attended alongside the London Ambulance Service and the London Fire Brigade.

    A woman aged 46 was found inside the property with stab wounds. Despite the efforts of paramedics, she was sadly declared dead at the scene.

    A 44-year-old man was arrested at the address on suspicion of murder. He was taken to hospital with slash wounds where he currently remains. His condition is not life-changing or life-threatening.

    Two children ages 9 and 7 have also been taken to hospital as a precaution but are not believed to have been inside the property at the time of the gas explosion.

    Local road closures are in place while enquiries continue. There are also additional officers on patrol in the local area.

    Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call police on 101 quoting CAD 926/17June or to remain anonymous call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: 12 die in KZN accident

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Tuesday, June 17, 2025

    Twelve people have died, with 38 others sustaining injuries in a head-on collision between a bus and truck on the R34 Matatani road between Vryheid and Ulundi in KwaZulu-Natal at around midnight. 

    “KwaZulu Private Ambulance Service paramedics responded to the scene, where they provided immediate medical attention to the victims. Of the injured, 10 patients sustained critical injuries, 22 suffered serious injuries, and six sustained minor injuries,” Arrive Alive said on Monday.

    A multi-service emergency response team worked to stabilise all patients before transporting them to nearby medical facilities for further treatment.

    Nine occupants were declared dead at the scene, having sustained fatal injuries before emergency services arrived. Three critically injured patients later died in the hospital, despite intensive efforts by paramedics and medical staff.

    The cause of the collision is under investigation. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Foot-and-mouth disease detected in the North West

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has confirmed an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) in the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District, specifically within the JB Marks Local Municipality.

    In the first case, the department was alerted by a private veterinarian, who visited a farm and noted suspicious signs. 

    A State veterinarian then collected samples, which were sent to the Onderstepoort Veterinary Institute (OVI) for testing.

    Another incident of FMD was detected at an abattoir in Madibeng.

    “The clinical signs of the affected  animals were missed at ante-mortem inspection but were detected on the slaughter line during the meat inspection process. 

    “Tissue samples were sent to the laboratory, and the results came back confirming both SAT 2 and SAT 3 types of the virus. 

    “The unslaughtered animals were escorted back to the farm of origin, a feedlot in Ventersdorp, through a Red Cross permit,” the statement read. 

    The department has placed both farms associated with the outbreak under quarantine, which prohibits the movement of animals and animal products. 

    In addition, the department has identified all farms connected to the Gauteng outbreak and is conducting tests to determine whether any of them are positive for the infection.

    “All such farms have also been put under precautionary quarantine until the test results are back.” 

    The department stated that any suspected case of FMD in susceptible animals must be reported to the local state veterinarian immediately.

    FMD is a highly contagious viral infection that affects cloven-hoofed animals and can impact some other species as well. 

    The main clinical signs of the disease include fever, lameness, and the appearance of blisters and sores in the mouth, feet, and teats.

    In recent months, outbreaks have occurred in five of the nine provinces in South Africa, with KwaZulu-Natal experiencing the most significant impact.

    Early this month, Minister of Agriculture, John Steenhuisen, announced that the department has ordered 901 200 doses of vaccines at a value of over R70 million. 

    The national department said this means that over 900 000 animals will be vaccinated in all areas that the department has prioritised.

    The department stated that Limpopo and Mpumalanga will also conduct their routine vaccinations, which are conducted three times a year, with some of the vaccines going to Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal. 

    Meanwhile, last week, Cabinet announced plans to establish a biosecurity council that will bring together the South African Police Service, veterinarians, scientists, the Border Management Authority (BMA) and captains of industry to better respond to future outbreaks and manage the related risks. 

    READ | Government on top off foot-and-mouth disease response. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Equatorial Guinea’s Golden Swan Sets Regional Benchmark for Greener Oil and Gas Practices


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    The African Energy Chamber (AEC) (www.EnergyChamber.org) proudly supports the recent visit of Gabonese President Brice Oligui Nguema to Equatorial Guinea’s Golden Swan industrial complex, marking a defining moment for Africa’s oil and gas sector. As the continent intensifies efforts to industrialize responsibly, Golden Swan – and Equatorial Guinea, under the leadership of President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, whose commitment to sustainable development and environmental stewardship has been instrumental – is demonstrating that environmental protection and energy development can and must go hand in hand.

    During the visit, President Oligui Nguema and his delegation witnessed first-hand how Equatorial Guinea has achieved self-sufficiency in treating industrial and hazardous waste. Golden Swan’s advanced infrastructure includes industrial incinerators, a wastewater treatment plant, a medical waste processing unit and recycling systems for waste oil, plastics, batteries and metals. Presentations showcased the company’s household waste system, which reduces landfill use by up to 90% through sorting and recycling, and its production of critical industrial gases like medical oxygen and nitrogen.

    The Golden Swan model directly addresses one of the most pressing challenges facing Africa’s hydrocarbons sector: the management of hazardous and industrial waste generated by upstream and downstream operations. By achieving self-sufficiency in this area, Equatorial Guinea not only protects its ecosystems and communities, but also strengthens its position as a responsible, forward-looking energy producer. The AEC believes that facilities like Golden Swan can serve as blueprints for governments and companies aiming to build energy industries that are both profitable and sustainable.

    The visit also sets the stage for tangible collaboration between Gabon and Equatorial Guinea, beyond high-level dialogue. Opportunities now exist for technical cooperation, joint ventures and knowledge sharing that could see similar waste management infrastructure developed across the region. The Chamber encourages both governments to formalize this cooperation and take decisive steps to turn this vision into reality.

    “This is a defining example of how African oil and gas producers can lead on environmental issues rather than follow,” said NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber. “Golden Swan shows what is possible when governments and industry come together with a clear purpose. It sets the bar higher, and it invites others on the continent to match or exceed that standard. This is good for our industry, good for our people, and good for Africa’s future.”

    Golden Swan’s success underscores a broader truth: Africa’s energy sector can drive industrialization while respecting the environment. As more nations follow this path, the continent will be better positioned to attract investment, create jobs and ensure long-term sustainability. The AEC welcomes this milestone and encourages all oil and gas stakeholders to build on Golden Swan’s example by innovating, collaborating and driving Africa’s growth while protecting its natural heritage.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI China: Beijing unveils new policies to boost cultural industry

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

    Beijing’s Chaoyang district on Monday announced 17 policies aimed at promoting high-quality development of the cultural industry.

    These measures will offer targeted support for cultural enterprises, gaming and e-sports industries, and film production. 

    Over the years, Beijing has made great progress in building itself into a national cultural center.

    Jointly established by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and the Beijing municipal government, the National Cultural Industry Innovation Experimental Zone in Beijing’s Chaoyang district has seen remarkable growth over the past decade. The number of companies in the zone has grown from 16,000 to over 50,000, including 1,517 large-scale cultural enterprises and 44 listed companies.  

    The zone has fostered key cultural enterprises, including Pop Mart, whose Labubu collectible figure has gained global popularity recently. It is also home to China’s largest e-sports complex and a center dedicated to AI-generated art.

    To further support growth, financial services have been developed specifically for cultural enterprises. So far, more than 33.97 billion yuan (US$4.73 billion) in credit financing has been provided to 3,072 companies in the zone.

    In addition, Chaoyang has transformed former industrial sites into cultural parks, developing 102 creative industry parks across the district.

    Looking ahead, the zone plans to upgrade its traditional sectors such as film and advertising, while accelerating the development of four major industry clusters, which are digital advertising, digital audiovisual content, gaming and e-sports, and digital performing arts.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Beijing ports see 9 million border crossings

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

    Beijing ports had recorded more than 9 million border crossings as of Sunday, a 22.2% year-on-year increase and reaching the milestone 29 days earlier than last year. 

    Of these, 2.61 million crossings were made by foreign nationals, up 39.7% year on year and accounting for 28.9% of the total. 

    Inbound trips by foreign nationals totaled over 1.34 million, a 38.7% increase year on year. Over 700,000 entries were made under visa exemption policies, including the 240-hour visa-free transit policy – which applies to 55 countries currently. 

    With the summer travel season approaching, Beijing ports are expected to see a further surge in border crossings. 

    To ensure efficient service at border checkpoints, the Beijing General Station of Exit and Entry Frontier Inspection has strengthened its multilingual service teams to assist foreign visitors with on-site inquiries, guidance, and consultations. 

    The 12367 immigration hotline remains open at all hours, offering support in both Chinese and foreign languages. 

    Authorities have also issued updated travel guides to help passengers plan their trips. Real-time passenger flow forecasts are available through apps.

    In addition, measures such as increasing inspection lanes and setting up dedicated 240-hour visa-free transit lanes have been implemented to streamline clearance and reduce waiting time.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Beijing funds equipment purchases and upgrades in key sectors

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

    The Beijing Municipal Commission of Development and Reform recently released a plan on providing loan interest subsidies to further support equipment purchases and upgrades in key sectors.

    The plan prioritizes support for eight sectors this year, namely technological innovation and R&D, strategic emerging industries, future industries, integrated development of advanced manufacturing and modern services, new infrastructure, public social services through social investment, upgrades to cultural tourism and retail spaces, and agriculture.

    It is part of Beijing’s efforts on continuously guiding and supporting equipment procurement and upgrades. Over the past two years, the city has been stepping up its commitment to implementing the policies of large-scale renewal of equipment and trade-in of consumer goods.

    This policy, which will remain in effect through 2027, applies to equipment procurement and upgrade projects that are aligned with designated investment sectors, have executed signed loan agreements and equipment purchase contracts, and can contribute to fixed-asset investment.

    Eligible projects may involve standalone equipment purchases or the equipment components within larger capital investment initiatives. In principle, projects must meet a minimum equipment purchase value of 5 million yuan ($69,600) to qualify.

    According to the plan, eligible projects will receive interest subsidies of up to 2.5 percentage points. For loans with actual interest rates below 2.5%, the subsidy rate will not exceed the actual loan interest rate. The subsidy period is set at two years.

    The municipal development and reform authority will leverage multiple channels to encourage companies to apply for subsidies as early as possible, so as to receive prompt approval and benefit. It will also guide financial institutions to increase funding support for equipment procurement and upgrades, ensuring broader policy coverage for businesses.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: 3rd supply chain expo to add new area for innovation chain

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

    An exhibition area for innovation chain will be added to the third China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE) in July, the event organizer said at a press briefing on Tuesday.

    The new exhibition area aims to promote the commercialization of technologies developed in laboratories and advance the seamless integration between innovation chain and industrial chain, said China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT).

    More than 230 domestic and international companies are set to make their debut at this year’s expo, including the U.S. tech giant NVIDIA, according to the CCPIT.

    Preparations for the upcoming expo are currently underway. So far, 650 companies from 75 countries, regions and international organizations have confirmed their participation. Over 65 percent of exhibitors are Global Fortune 500 companies or industry leaders, while overseas participants account for 35 percent of the total.

    The third CISCE will take place in Beijing from July 16 to 20, with Thailand as the guest country of honor.

    As the world’s first national-level exhibition focusing on supply chains, the expo is an internationally shared public product. First held in 2023, the expo has contributed to building more secure, stable, open and inclusive global industrial and supply chains, according to the CCPIT.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: 3rd China Int’l Supply Chain Expo to open in mid-July

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

    The third China International Supply Chain Expo will take place in Beijing from July 16 to 20. Overseas exhibitors will account for 35% of participants. U.S. representation has increased by 15%, maintaining its position as the largest foreign contingent and expanding its exhibition space by 10%, the organizer announced at a Tuesday press conference.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: SCIO organizes media trip to Jiangsu and Zhejiang

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

    SCIO organizes media trip to Jiangsu and Zhejiang

    China SCIO | June 17, 2025

    Since May, the State Council Information Office has organized a series of media trips aimed at introducing how different regions across China are advancing high-quality development and fulfilling the goals set out in the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025).

    The second leg of the program was held from June 9 to 13, during which journalists from the United States, the United Kingdom, Spain, the Netherlands, Singapore, Indonesia, Turkey, South Korea, Japan, Brazil, and other countries visited Jiangsu and Zhejiang provinces. They focused on topics such as innovation-driven development, green development, and how major economic provinces are playing a leading role in national growth.

    On June 9, 2025, the State Council Information Office holds a press briefing in Nanjing, Jiangsu province, about the province’s progress in innovation-driven development. [Photo by Luan Haijun/China SCIO]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s new-generation manned spacecraft completes zero-altitude escape flight test

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

    China’s new-generation manned spacecraft completes zero-altitude escape flight test

    Xinhua | June 17, 2025

    China successfully conducted an escape flight test on its new-generation manned spacecraft Mengzhou at zero altitude on Tuesday, taking an important step forward in its manned lunar exploration program.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: With the support of Rosneft, scientists are conducting research on forest reindeer in the Tyumen region

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    With the support of RN-Uvatneftegaz (part of the oil production complex of NK Rosneft), scientists from the Tobolsk Scientific Station of the Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences conducted large-scale monitoring of the territories of the Kunyak Nature Reserve during the implementation of a project to study forest reindeer.

    Ecologists were able to obtain over 100 thousand images as a result of aerial monitoring, which covered an area of almost 60 thousand hectares. The array of unique data will form the basis for assessing the population size of the forest reindeer, which is listed in the Red Book of the Tyumen Region. At the next stage of the project, scientists plan to develop a set of measures to protect the habitat and increase the population size of the rare species.

    The RN-Uvatneftegaz program for the study and conservation of forest reindeer is of great practical importance for the Tyumen region – research has not been conducted in the region for more than 20 years, and there is currently no current information on the state of the population. Earlier, during the scientific project, scientists were able to confirm the fact of the deer’s permanent habitation on the territory of the reserve.

    Over the past five years, with grant support from RN-Uvatneftegaz, scientists have implemented several research projects of practical importance for preserving the biodiversity of the Tyumen region, including programs to assess the status of populations of rare and protected species of birds and animals.

    Responsible attitude to the environment is an integral part of the corporate culture and one of the key principles of the activities of Rosneft and its subsidiaries. RN-Uvatneftegaz is implementing a comprehensive program for the study and conservation of natural resources in the Uvatsky District, including the use of advanced technological solutions.

    Reference:

    RN-Uvatneftegaz LLC, a subsidiary of Rosneft Oil Company, is conducting exploration and development of a group of fields located in the Uvatsky District of the Tyumen Region and the Khanty-Mansiysk Autonomous Okrug-Yugra. The Uvatsky project includes 19 licensed areas with a total area of over 25 thousand square kilometers.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft June 17, 2025

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The prospects for urban development were discussed at the A.A. Vysokovsky Forum at the National Research University Higher School of Economics

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    The annual A.A. Vysokovsky Forum, organized by the Faculty of Urban and Regional Development, was held at the National Research University Higher School of Economics. Should development projects be adjusted to the interests of residents, will New Moscow become a new point of attraction, and what will the opening of the A101 Group basic department give to HSE? All this was discussed by officials, business representatives, teachers and experts.

    © Higher School of Economics

    As the head of the Higher School of Urban Studies named after A.A. Vysokovsky, Ruslan Goncharov, noted at the beginning of the presentation of the basic department of the A101 Group, education in urban studies at the HSE can be obtained within the framework of a bachelor’s degree, a master’s degree, a postgraduate degree, and additional professional education. Since the establishment of the school in 2011, more than 600 graduates have completed the educational programs, more than 80% of whom work in their specialty.

    “Very often, many educational platforms discuss the gap in competencies, the discrepancy between graduates and the demands of the labor market, and HSE is doing everything it can to overcome this gap. The faculty organizes workshops and summer schools with industry partners for its students, invites expert practitioners to teach, launches partner courses and educational projects with leading industry organizations. The opening of the Basic Department of the A101 company will help HSE prepare highly qualified personnel in the field of development. This will allow, among other things, “to conduct classes on current issues of integrated urban development, regularly organize expert and public events with industry representatives, and conduct interdisciplinary research in the field of integrated urban development in general and New Moscow in particular. As part of practical classes in the faculty’s educational programs, specific cases from the A101 Group portfolio will be analyzed,” noted Ruslan Goncharov.

    Ruslan Goncharov expects successful synergy with the new partner of the HSE. One of the areas of work of the new department will be the development of the Urban School program for schoolchildren. As the scientific director of the basic department “A101” Maxim Gurvich noted: “Immersing children in the urban agenda from school is the most correct decision.”

    “We are building a city where there are all the opportunities for people to communicate, spend time together, play sports or hobbies, and unite by interests. This creates the very high-quality environment that leads to the growth of social ties. A high-quality environment is created not only by the developer, but also by the people themselves, without them there will be no city. And our task is to help them spend more time with their neighbors, attend cultural and educational events, play sports together – and all this close to their home. This is why we are actively working with district communities. Doing sociology, we found out that a district becomes a real home when you do not just walk from the metro to your apartment, but when you do something together with those who live next to you. And the potential of these connections is huge,” said Dmitry Tsvetov.

    Mikhail Blinkin, the academic director of the Faculty of Urban and Regional Development at the National Research University Higher School of Economics, who was present at the event, asked whether residents of New Moscow would have to sit in traffic jams to get to work in Moscow. According to Dmitry Tsvetov, 30% of residents already work where they live. But the company has ambitious plans here too. “We want there to be more jobs than residents,” Dmitry Tsvetov sets his goal. In particular, the construction of business centers in New Moscow will contribute to this.

    The topic of local community development was continued by Elena Bulin-Sokolova, Doctor of Pedagogical Sciences, Head of the Educational Bureau “A101 Lerniti”: “We build cities in which people want to live, including ourselves. A city is not only comfortable modern housing, it is also a social infrastructure – spaces and events in which you can get involved, finding something to your liking. And a city is also people,” Elena noted.

    “A101 Lernity” creates spaces for family centers and neighborhood clubs, open workshops and public lounges, street cinemas and sports grounds, initiating programs, projects and various events, involving residents themselves and local businesses in their organization, whether it is the revival of the culture of yard games or holding children’s maker summer programs; engineering hackathons for or career guidance internships for teenagers, pedagogical lectures or culinary parties, inter-district sports competitions or huge good-neighborly festivals for everyone – all this helps residents get to know the territory and each other, unites them around interesting things, contributes to the formation of communities.

    As Kirill Puzanov, associate professor at the Higher School of Urban Studies, noted: “A good city is a city that provides a minimum of necessary and a maximum of possible options for its use. Space should provide various options for use at different times and for different categories of citizens,” he is convinced.

    Historian and local historian Denis Romodin, in turn, said that tourism outside the city is currently developing at a rapid pace. In many cities in the Moscow region, new communities have emerged that actively conduct excursions for Muscovites, and they are conducted by young 20-year-olds. “And this is, in general, a very good idea, because it excites such local patriotism, explaining why my region is unique,” says Denis Romodin. At the same time, according to him, such processes are happening not only in historically interesting areas. Such communities interested in their city also exist in New Moscow – for example, in Troitsk.

    Dean of the Faculty of Urban and Regional Development at the National Research University Higher School of Economics Evgeny Mikhaylenko emphasized the importance of comprehensive improvement of urban infrastructure and creation of comfortable living conditions on the sidelines of the event. This contributes to both social and economic development of new districts, and also makes them more unique. “The rejection of uniform standards is the main task and guideline of modern urban policy aimed at diversity of the urban environment. This approach allows each district to acquire its own unique individuality, which makes it especially valuable and beloved by residents. Moreover, the uniqueness of new districts attracts the attention of not only local residents, but also neighboring territories, contributing to the formation of additional urban centers,” he explained.

    During the discussions within the forum, experts also spoke about what changes city residents can expect in terms of transport. Thus, according to Olga Morozova, Director of Strategic Projects of the Department of Transport and Development of Road Transport Infrastructure of the City of Moscow, the first driverless tram has already successfully started operating in Moscow. It has already covered more than 5 thousand km without a single traffic violation. Last year, the next stage of this test began – the launch of an unmanned tram with passengers under the control of a test driver. Already in the fall of 2025, it is planned to launch a completely unmanned tram for regular trips along the route with passengers.

    Continuing the discussion about the transport of the future, Evgeny Mikhailenko shared a forecast for the emergence of new types of real estate and infrastructure related to modern means of mobility, for example, transport hubs for drones, which will contribute to the multifunctionality of urban spaces and the development of a “smart city” that adapts to the demands of the time.

    Another significant event of the Forum was the awarding of Professor of the Faculty of Urban and Regional Development of the National Research University Higher School of Economics Sergey Sivaev with the departmental award of the Ministry of Construction and Housing and Public Utilities of the Russian Federation, the medal “For Impeccable Labor and Diligence” of the 3rd degree.

    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 New Zealand: Awards – Canterbury’s top young chefs crowned in new competition at Ara

    Source: Ara Institute of Canterbury

    New culinary talent has been on show in Ōtautahi, with 36 young chefs vying for top honours in the inaugural Waitaha Canterbury Young Chef Championships at Ara Institute of Canterbury.
    The Waitaha Canterbury Young Chef of the Year went to Clover Lippe, a promising young chef from Te Pae | Christchurch Convention Centre. Young Pastry Chef of the Year went to Ellouise Day who is completing her Diploma in Cookery (Advanced Patisserie) at Ara while working as Senior Chef de Partie and Pastry Chef at OGB restaurant.
    Both won a standout prize pack, and a coveted spot alongside their employers on a high-profile city billboard.
    Lippe had trained hard to refine her two-course menu of Lumina lamb loin, fondant potato, celeriac puree and charred brussels sprouts with pickled carrot followed by a Barker’s blackcurrant semifreddo with white chocolate vanilla cremeaux, vanilla sable and crumb and blackcurrant coulis.
    Executive chef at Te Pae, Des Davis, who attended the prizegiving, said her efforts had paid off.
    “We’re thrilled for Clover but also so pleased to see a competition like this available for young chefs,” he said. “It offers a different kind of challenge from service and is an excellent way to extend their skills. A competition like this has been missing and we’re glad to see it.”
    The industry-supported event held in Ara’s commercial training kitchens on Monday 16 June featured three categories:
    • Young Chef of the Year, sponsored by Catering Hardware
    • Young Pastry Chef of the Year, sponsored by Silikomart
    • Trainee Chef of the Year, sponsored by Akaroa Salmon
    Competitors came from leading kitchens including Kokomo, The George, OGB, Earl Bistro, Sudima Airport Hotel, The Montreal Bar and Restaurant, Atawhai Café and Curators House. Each worked with premium sponsored ingredients while showcasing their individual style.
    Head judge, Alliance Meat brand ambassador Darren Wright, said the competition tested not only the flavour and presentation of each dish, but also the chefs’ kitchen practices and professionalism.
    Young Pastry Chef winner Ellouise Day said she was delighted to take the win. Her layered walnut and maple syrup layered dessert with spiced apple compote, chocolate and walnut crumb, apple cider gel and chocolate ganache impressed the judges for its flavour and finesse.
    In the Trainee Chef division, an impressive 20 emerging young chefs competed in two heats. Participants were from high schools including Kaiapoi, Riccarton, Haeata, Hurunui, Shirley Boys’, Papanui and Lincoln. Many are dual enrolled at Ara or studying with ServiceIQ.
    The trainees were tasked with creating a pan-seared Akaroa salmon fillet and a warm salad of prawns, potato, chorizo and spinach, complemented by smoked paprika mayonnaise, lemon dressing and herb garnish.
    Gabriel Flower, from Sudima Airport Hotel took out the category’s top prize. His executive chef, Ara alumnus Dean Ding, said the new competition will play a crucial role in nurturing new culinary talent. “It’s time for new growth in our industry, and this competition will encourage young chefs to find their own passion for cooking. That’s what it’s all about.”
    Ara Department of Hospitality and Service Industries tutor Mark Sycamore said the event was set to become a firm fixture on Christchurch’s culinary calendar.
    “The fact they’ve signed up shows these young chefs are serious about their futures and willing to put themselves on the line. As a chef, they’re the people you want on your team,” he said.
    He praised the support from sponsors, which included a chocolate masterclass from Nel Vicencio at Mind Your Temper, an Alliance-sponsored “meet the farmer” experience, and premium product offerings.
    “Everyone has gone home with world-class equipment from Silikomart and a haul of other goodies. The backing has been phenomenal.”
    While these young chefs are still savouring their taste of success, Ara is already looking ahead to welcoming new contenders keen to etch their own names on a culinary championship trophy next year.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pacific Partnership 2025 Conducts Mission Stop in Suva, Fiji, June 13, 2025 [Image 17 of 26]

    Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)

    Issued by: on

    SUVA, Fiji (June 13, 2025) Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Deika Bustamante, assigned to Navy Medicine Readiness Training Command, sanitizes a petri dish at the Fiji Centre for Disease Control, during Pacific Partnership 2025 in Suva, Fiji, June 13, 2025. Now in its 21st iteration, the Pacific Partnership series is the largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster management preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific. Pacific Partnership works collaboratively with host and partner nations to enhance regional interoperability and disaster response capabilities, increase security and stability in the region, and foster new and enduring friendships in the Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Moises Sandoval/Released)

    Date Taken: 06.13.2025
    Date Posted: 06.17.2025 04:59
    Photo ID: 9116982
    VIRIN: 250613-N-ED646-7876
    Resolution: 5760×8640
    Size: 8.77 MB
    Location: SUVA, FJ
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    PUBLIC DOMAIN  

    This work, Pacific Partnership 2025 Conducts Mission Stop in Suva, Fiji, June 13, 2025 [Image 26 of 26], by PO2 Moises Sandoval, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Pacific Partnership 2025 Conducts Mission Stop in Suva, Fiji, June 13, 2025 [Image 26 of 26]

    Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)

    Issued by: on

    SUVA, Fiji (June 13, 2025) Master-at-Arms 2nd Class Jake Ziegler, center left, with the Pacific Partnership 2025 (PP-25) team, races students of the Waiqanake District School during PP-25 in Suva, Fiji, June 13, 2025. Now in its 21st iteration, the Pacific Partnership series is the largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster management preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific. Pacific Partnership works collaboratively with host and partner nations to enhance regional interoperability and disaster response capabilities, increase security and stability in the region, and foster new and enduring friendships in the Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Moises Sandoval/Released)

    Date Taken: 06.13.2025
    Date Posted: 06.17.2025 04:59
    Photo ID: 9116991
    VIRIN: 250613-N-ED646-5123
    Resolution: 7620×5085
    Size: 6.52 MB
    Location: SUVA, FJ
    Web Views: 0
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  • MIL-OSI China: Announcement on Open Market Operations No.113 [2025]

    Source: Peoples Bank of China

    Announcement on Open Market Operations No.113 [2025]

    (Open Market Operations Office, June 17, 2025)

    The People’s Bank of China conducted reverse repo operations in the amount of RMB197.3 billion through quantity bidding at a fixed interest rate on June 17, 2025.

    Details of the Reverse Repo Operations

    Maturity

    Rate

    Bidding Volume

    Winning Bid Volume

    7 days

    1.40%

    RMB197.3 billion

    RMB197.3 billion

    Date of last update Nov. 29 2018

    2025年06月17日

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Samsung Strengthens Premium Retail Footprint in Pune with New Viman Nagar Experience Store

    Source: Samsung

     
    Samsung, India’s largest consumer electronics brand, inaugurated another experience store in Viman Nagar in Pune, further reinforcing its commitment to enhancing premium retail presence across cities. Spanning 1050 sq. ft., the new store offers a one-stop destination for customers to explore Samsung’s cutting-edge innovations and seamless connected ecosystem under one roof.
     
    The store features dedicated zones showcasing the latest smartphones, tablets, laptops, smartwatches, smart rings, and the innovative SmartThings ecosystem that supports connected living. Through interactive displays and hands-on experiential areas, visitors can discover how seamlessly these devices integrate across productivity, entertainment, wellness and smart home automation.
     
    Located in one of Pune’s most affluent and high-footfall neighbourhoods, the new Samsung experience store offers customers an opportunity to explore and engage with the brand’s latest innovations across categories. As cities emerge as growth drivers, this store is poised to serve as a vital retail touchpoint, enabling deeper consumer engagement and strengthening Samsung’s presence in these high-potential markets.
     
    “At Samsung, our aim is to create inspiring retail experiences that bring innovation closer to our customers. The inauguration of our premium experience store in Viman Nagar, Pune, marks another significant step in strengthening our premium presence. This new store embodies our broader vision of growing our premium retail presence and offering a holistic, all-in-one destination that brings together cutting-edge innovation, meaningful customer engagement, and outstanding service, all under one roof,” said Sumit Walia, Vice President, Head of D2C Business & Corporate Marketing at Samsung India.
     
    Reinforcing its commitment to customer satisfaction and digital empowerment, the new store will host Samsung’s flagship ‘Learn @ Samsung’ initiative, which has seen success in other locations across India. This programme offers a variety of workshops designed to equip consumers—especially millennials and Gen Z—with the skills and knowledge to make the most of advanced tech. These interactive sessions that provide hands-on experiences with Galaxy devices, cover topics such as AI-powered photography, productivity, creativity and digital doodling, enhancing both user engagement and tech proficiency.
     
    To celebrate the launch, customers visiting the store can avail:
     

    Over 30 free subscriptions across leading OTT, music, wellness, and infotainment platforms.
    Exclusive discounts on over 40 brand gift cards and over 25 top deals from premium brands.
    Buy-1-Get-1-Free buffet deals across over 100 premium restaurants across India.
    Paytm First membership rewards, special travel savings on flights, and discounts at over 14,000 restaurants nationwide.

     
    The store also introduces Samsung Store+, a user-friendly digital platform that enables in-store visitors to explore detailed product information and conveniently choose home delivery, creating a smooth and integrated online-offline shopping experience. In addition, a dedicated service centre within the store ensures enhanced post-purchase support for customers.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Kazakhstan’s Participation in OCTOPUS 2025 Strengthens OSCE-Supported International Efforts to Combat Cybercrime

    Source: Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe – OSCE

    Headline: Kazakhstan’s Participation in OCTOPUS 2025 Strengthens OSCE-Supported International Efforts to Combat Cybercrime

    The delegation of Kazakhstan at the OCTOPUS 2025 held from June 4 to 6, 2025 in Strasbourg (OSCE) Photo details

    From June 4 to 6 2025, a delegation from Kazakhstan participated in the international conference “OCTOPUS 2025 – Conference on Countering Cybercrime”, hosted by the Council of Europe in Strasbourg, France. The participation of the delegation was facilitated by the OSCE Programme Office in Astana within the framework of the extra-budgetary project “Supporting the Republic of Kazakhstan in the Development of Effective Policies to Counter Cybercrimes (Phase I)”, implemented by the Office in co-operation with the Ministry of Interior of Kazakhstan, and under the co-ordination of the Presidential Administration of Kazakhstan.
    The conference convened cybercrime and law enforcement experts from over 100 countries, serving as a premier global forum for addressing evolving cyber threats, fostering international collaboration, and sharing innovative approaches and policy practices.  The delegation from Kazakhstan comprised representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Financial Monitoring Agency, and the Prosecutor General’s Office, as well as OSCE project staff, who actively contributed to plenary discussions, thematic workshops, and bilateral consultations.
    Kazakhstan’s participation advanced the objectives of the OSCE-supported project by enabling national stakeholders to tap into global expertise, establish institutional partnerships, and explore innovative strategies for combating cybercrime. The knowledge and experience gained at the conference will contribute to the formulation of effective national policies and enhance the capacity of Kazakhstan’s law enforcement authorities to respond to complex cyber threats – particularly in areas such as cryptocurrency-related crime, AI-driven cybercriminal activities, and international legal co-operation on electronic evidence.
    Key topics of the conference included the malicious use of artificial intelligence, cyber threats to democratic institutions, and emerging financial fraud schemes such as “pig-butchering” scams. Participants also examined the role of the Second Additional Protocol to the Convention on Cybercrime in facilitating cross-border investigations and improving the admissibility of electronic evidence.
    Kazakhstan’s active engagement in OCTOPUS 2025 underscores its growing commitment to contributing to global efforts against cybercrime. It also reflects the tangible progress of the OSCE-supported project in promoting international collaboration, strengthening national capacities, and reinforcing Kazakhstan’s integration into the global cybercrime response community.

    MIL OSI Europe News –