NewzIntel.com

Category: AM-NC

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: TUV call for local hero’s darts triumph to be marked

    Source: Traditional Unionist Voice – Northern Ireland

    Statement by TUV Braid Councillor Christopher Jamieson:

    “I am absolutely thrilled to extend my congratulations to the Northern Ireland darts team on achieving an extraordinary victory at the 2025 World Cup of Darts in Frankfurt. In a gripping final decider, Daryl Gurney and our very own Josh Rock triumphed 10–9 over Wales, clinching Northern Ireland’s first ever World Cup of Darts title .

    “As the local councillor representing Broughshane, I could not be prouder to see Josh Rock – our hometown hero – step onto the world stage and deliver such a performance. Breaking the tournament record for 180s made it all the more special.

    “Josh’s return to Broughshane will be met with a hero’s welcome. I will be requesting a Mayor’s reception for him. I’ve no doubt that his achievement will inspire future local sports stars.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The 16th session of the 14th NPC Standing Committee will be held from June 24 to 27 in Beijing.

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, June 16 (Xinhua) — The 16th session of the Standing Committee of the 14th National People’s Congress (NPC) of China will be held from June 24 to 27 in Beijing.

    The decision was made at a meeting attended by the chairman and vice-chairmen of the NPC Standing Committee, which was chaired by NPC Standing Committee Chairman Zhao Leji on Monday. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Xi Jinping considers Central Asia a key partner in modern cooperation within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, June 15 (Xinhua) — “Start loading!” Xi Jinping and K.-Zh. Tokayev jointly gave this command at the launch ceremony of the China-Europe Trans-Caspian International Transport Route, which took place in Astana in July 2024.

    The event marked the formal establishment of a multi-dimensional connectivity network combining roads, railways, airlines and pipelines to better link Asia to Europe via the Caspian Sea. The network is expected to become a vibrant artery under the Belt and Road Initiative.

    While the ancient Silk Road witnessed vibrant trade and cultural exchanges between China and Central Asia, Xi Jinping sees the region as an important partner in modern Belt and Road cooperation.

    A view of the China-Kazakhstan Logistics Cooperation Base in Lianyungang, China, June 26, 2024. /Photo: Xinhua/

    In September 2013, also in Astana, the Chinese President gave a historic speech at Nazarbayev University, where he first outlined his vision for the construction of the “Silk Road Economic Belt” – a key component of the Belt and Road Initiative.

    “We can actively discuss the best ways to improve cross-border transport infrastructure,” Xi said, “and work to build a transport network connecting East, West and South Asia to promote economic development and travel in the region.”

    In the years since, the Chinese leader’s vision has steadily been realized. For example, late last year, the Kyrgyz border city of Jalal-Abad hosted a ceremony to mark the start of construction of the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway. In a congratulatory message, Xi Jinping called for the railway to become a “new demonstration project” for Belt and Road cooperation.

    The railway will start at the ancient Silk Road junction of Kashgar (Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, Northwest China), pass into Kyrgyzstan via the Torugart Pass, reach Jalal-Abad and end in Andijan in eastern Uzbekistan.

    According to Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov, this railway is not just a transport corridor, but an important strategic bridge connecting the countries of the East and West.

    Cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative has effectively boosted trade, travel, and exchanges in the region. In 2024, trade between China and Central Asian countries reached a record US$94.8 billion, driven in part by the booming cross-border e-commerce. China is now the region’s top trading partner and a major source of investment.

    In 2014, Tajikistan became the first country to sign a memorandum of understanding with China on the joint development of the Silk Road Economic Belt. Since then, cooperation has yielded tangible results, many of which have been personally supported by Xi Jinping, ranging from the construction of new highways and power plants to new iconic buildings in cities.

    Students learn skills at Lu Ban’s Workshop in Dushanbe, May 31. /Photo: Xinhua/

    Tajikistan is also home to Central Asia’s first “Lu Ban Workshop” – a Chinese vocational education center that has already trained more than 1,500 students in practical skills in engineering, architecture, water management and environmental protection, cultivating talent for the country’s future development.

    During his state visit to Dushanbe in 2024, Xi Jinping told Emomali Rahmon: “I saw a more prosperous Tajikistan.”

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: From Economy to Culture, China and Central Asia’s Multifaceted Partnership Grows Stronger

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, June 16 (Xinhua) — Since the first China-Central Asia Summit was held in Xi’an, northwest China’s Shaanxi Province, in May 2023, fruitful results have been achieved in various areas of cooperation between China and Central Asian countries, and a community with a shared future between China and Central Asia has begun to take shape at an accelerated pace.

    TRADE AND ECONOMIC COOPERATION FOR THE SAKE OF COMMON PROSPERITY

    Kazakh flour and biscuits, Kyrgyz honey, Turkmen candies… In the store of Xi’an Aiju Grain and Oilseeds Company, a variety of goods from Central Asia attract the attention of customers.

    “Most of these food products from Central Asia ‘arrived’ here on China-Europe freight trains. These products account for more than 40 percent of our company’s sales,” said Liu Dongmeng, deputy general manager of Aiju.

    Today, the city of Xi’an has long been not only the starting point of the ancient Silk Road, but also one of the busiest transport hubs for modern “steel camel caravans.”

    According to data from the Changba International Dry Port in Xi’an, by the end of 2024, more than 76 thousand standard containers (20-foot equivalent, TEU) were shipped from Xi’an to Central Asia as part of China-Europe international railway freight transportation, which is 47.6 percent more than a year earlier.

    “In 2015, our company began to establish a base for processing agricultural products in Kazakhstan, and began to deliver goods from Central Asia to China using China-Europe trains,” Liu Dongmeng said, adding that after the 1st China-Central Asia Summit, the level of awareness of Central Asian countries among Xi’an residents has increased significantly, which has contributed to the sales of high-quality goods from the Central Asian region.

    According to the General Administration of Customs of the People’s Republic of China, in 2024, trade turnover between China and Central Asian countries amounted to USD 94.8 billion, which is USD 5.4 billion more than the previous year.

    “China is the most important investment and trade partner of the Central Asian countries,” said Sun Weidong, Secretary General of the China-Central Asia format.

    According to him, within the framework of the joint construction of the Belt and Road, China and the Central Asian countries, by strengthening the alignment of their development strategies, carry out comprehensive cooperation based on the principle of mutual benefit, while cooperation in such areas as digital trade and cross-border transportation is developing dynamically.

    As one of the important achievements of the China-Central Asia Summit, Kazakhstan’s logistics center in Xi’an was officially put into operation in February 2024. By the end of May this year, it had already processed more than 180 thousand tons of cargo.

    This center with a total area of about 6.67 hectares and a design capacity of more than 655 thousand standard containers per year significantly increases the efficiency of sending trains from Xi’an to Central Asia. Currently, the center serves as a trade and logistics collection and distribution center for Kazakhstan in China.

    “Thanks to this center, goods from Kazakhstan, after consolidation in Xi’an, can directly go to the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region /South China/, and then end up in the markets of Southeast Asian countries, which has opened an important international trade corridor for Central Asian countries,” said Darkhan Yesengulov, deputy sales manager at China-Kazakhstan (Xi’an) Trade and Logistics Co., Ltd.

    SCIENTIFIC AND TECHNICAL COOPERATION IN THE COURSE OF “GREEN DEVELOPMENT”

    In recent years, as practical cooperation between China and Central Asia deepens, high-level planning for bilateral green and low-carbon cooperation has been improved.

    Following the first China-Central Asia summit, a list of agreements and initiatives was published. Among them is “Carrying out China-Central Asia green and low-carbon development activities to deepen cooperation in green development and combating climate change.”

    The Turgusun hydroelectric power station, which was put into operation in July 2021, is the first key hydropower project implemented under the joint construction of the Belt and Road Initiative between Kazakhstan and China. After its completion, it was able to compensate for half of the electricity deficit in the Altay region of East Kazakhstan, thereby effectively alleviating the power shortage in the region.

    “During the construction of the hydroelectric power station, more than 200 jobs were created for local residents. This hydroelectric power station showed the world that through technical cooperation and exchange of experience, we can achieve mutually beneficial results in the economy, society and ecology,” said Asset Maksut, director of Turgusun-1 and Turgusun-2 LLP.

    The prospects for cooperation between China and Central Asia in the field of electric vehicles are also very broad. Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers operate in Uzbekistan and Tajikistan.

    “Electric cars from China are more popular in Central Asian countries. Alternative energy is a new area of cooperation between China and Central Asian countries,” said Ma Bin, a research fellow at the Center for Russian and Central Asian Studies at Fudan University.

    According to him, China and Central Asian countries jointly advocate the concept of green, low-carbon, circular and sustainable development. These concepts determine the direction of countries’ efforts in the energy and technology sectors, and also lay the foundation for further cooperation.

    Ecologist, board member of the Green Alliance of Kyrgyzstan Anara Sultangazieva believes that in the context of global environmental problems and climate change, countries share a common concept of “green development” in order to mitigate their consequences. “Especially in the area of agricultural development in order to ensure food security in the context of water shortages in Central Asian countries.”

    HUMANITARIAN EXCHANGES FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

    China and Central Asian countries are actively developing cooperation in tourism, joint archaeological research, educational exchanges, etc., which strengthens the social foundations and popular support base for cooperation.

    China has now become one of the main study destinations for students from Central Asian countries. With its rich educational and scientific resources, Xi’an has become one of the popular cities for students from this region.

    According to the data, the Xi’an government has established a program to train students from five Central Asian countries, and has successfully enrolled 450 students from these countries by 2024.

    “Chinese culture has a deep influence on the Central Asian region, and the unique charm of Central Asian cultures also greatly attracts Chinese people,” said Nurmammedov Dovraniz from Turkmenistan, who is studying archaeology at Northwest University of China.

    According to the young man, mutual cultural attraction is a solid foundation for building a community of shared destiny between China and Central Asia.

    “China’s cooperation with Central Asian countries in all areas is rapidly deepening and developing. The youth of our countries are living in a “golden age”, they have bright prospects and broad opportunities for development,” Sun Weidong noted.

    Vice-Rector for International Relations of the Tajik Technical University named after Academician M. Osimi Rauf Jurakhonzoda noted that in recent years there has been a positive trend in cultural and humanitarian exchanges between China and Tajikistan.

    A striking example of this, according to him, is the launch in Tajikistan of the first “Luban Workshop” in Central Asia, aimed at training engineering personnel for the industrialization and modernization of the country.

    “We plan to introduce new formats of cooperation with Chinese universities. This is not only a contribution to the development of education, but also strengthening the friendship between our peoples,” added R. Jurakhonzoda.

    On June 7, the first China-Central Asia international tourist train returned to Xi’an. The train with more than 200 passengers departed from Xi’an on May 29 for Almaty, Kazakhstan. It left China via the Khorgos railway checkpoint in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region /Northwest China/.

    Let us recall that in May 2023, China and Kazakhstan signed an intergovernmental agreement on mutual exemption from visa requirements, which officially entered into force in November of the same year. 2024 was the Year of Kazakhstan Tourism in China, and 2025 has been declared the Year of China Tourism in Kazakhstan.

    According to Li Jiang, deputy head of Horgos Customs, the launch of the above-mentioned international tourist train has laid a new foundation for deepening connectivity and promoting people-to-people exchanges between China and Central Asian countries.

    In addition, on June 1, 2025, the Agreement between the Government of the People’s Republic of China and the Government of the Republic of Uzbekistan on mutual exemption from visa requirements entered into force.

    “Undoubtedly, this will contribute to the development of the tourism sector and increase the tourist flow,” said the Minister-Counselor of the Embassy of Uzbekistan in China Saidkamol Agzamkhodjaev, adding that Uzbekistan intends to increase the number of Chinese tourists visiting Uzbekistan annually to 1 million people.

    “As a ‘lubricant’ for the development of China’s relations with Central Asian countries, humanitarian exchanges contribute to their sustainable and healthy development,” Ma Bin emphasized.

    Sun Weidong noted that China’s relations with Central Asian countries will develop to a higher level, and their cooperation will expand to broader areas, which will contribute to the deep and thorough advancement of building a community with a shared future for China and Central Asia.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: June 2025 issue of “Hong Kong Monthly Digest of Statistics” now available

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Census and Statistics Department (C&SD) published today (June 16) the June 2025 issue of the “Hong Kong Monthly Digest of Statistics” (HKMDS).
     
         Apart from providing up-to-date statistics, this issue also contains a feature article entitled “The Cultural and Creative Industries in Hong Kong”.
     
    “The Cultural and Creative Industries in Hong Kong”
     
         The cultural and creative industries are among the most dynamic economic sectors in Hong Kong, contributing to both economic growth and job creation. They comprise a set of knowledge-based activities that deploy creativity and intellectual capital as primary inputs and deliver goods and services with cultural, artistic and creative contents. This feature article provides the statistics of the cultural and creative industries in Hong Kong for 2019 to 2023.
     
         For enquiries about this feature article, please contact the Construction and Miscellaneous Services Statistics Section of the C&SD (Tel: 3903 6962; email: asps@censtatd.gov.hk).
     
         Published in bilingual form, the HKMDS is a compact volume of official statistics containing about 130 tables. It collects up-to-date statistical series on various aspects of the social and economic situation of Hong Kong. Topics include population; labour; external trade; National Income and Balance of Payments; prices; business performance; energy; housing and property; government accounts, finance and insurance; and transport, communications and tourism. For selected key statistical items, over 20 charts depicting the annual trend in the past decade and quarterly or monthly trend in the recent two years are also available. Users can download the Digest at the website of the C&SD (www.censtatd.gov.hk/en/EIndexbySubject.html?pcode=B1010002&scode=460).
     
         Enquiries about the contents of the Digest can be directed to the Statistical Information Dissemination Section (1) of the C&SD (Tel: 2582 4738; email: gen-enquiry@censtatd.gov.hk).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong’s Gross National Income and external primary income flows for the first quarter of 2025

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Census and Statistics Department (C&SD) released today (June 16) the preliminary statistics on Hong Kong’s Gross National Income (GNI) and related figures for the first quarter of 2025.
     
         Hong Kong’s GNI, which denotes the total income earned by Hong Kong residents from engaging in various economic activities, increased by 6.2% in the first quarter of 2025 over a year earlier to $879.4 billion at current market prices. The Gross Domestic Product (GDP), estimated at $799.7 billion at current market prices in the same quarter, recorded a 4.3% increase over a year earlier. The value of GNI was larger than GDP by $79.7 billion in the first quarter of 2025, which was equivalent to 10.0% of GDP in that quarter, mainly attributable to a net inflow of investment income.
     
         After netting out the effect of price changes over the same period, Hong Kong’s GNI increased by 4.0% in real terms in the first quarter of 2025 over a year earlier. The corresponding GDP in the same quarter increased by 3.1% in real terms.
     
         Hong Kong’s total inflow of primary income, which mainly comprises investment income, estimated at $521.3 billion in the first quarter of 2025 and equivalent to 65.2% of GDP in that quarter, recorded an increase of 5.3% over a year earlier.  Meanwhile, total primary income outflow, estimated at $441.6 billion in the first quarter of 2025 and equivalent to 55.2% of GDP in that quarter, also increased by 1.8% over a year earlier.
     
         As for the major components of investment income inflow, direct investment income (DII) increased by 3.4% over a year earlier, mainly due to the increase in earnings of some prominent local enterprises from their direct investment abroad.  Portfolio investment income (PII) recorded a significant increase of 36.7% over a year earlier, mainly attributable to the increase in dividend income received by resident investors from their holdings of non-resident equity securities and the increase in interest income received by resident investors from their holdings of non-resident debt securities.
     
         Regarding the major components of investment income outflow, DII increased by 4.2% over a year earlier, mainly due to the increase in earnings of some prominent multinational enterprises from their direct investment in Hong Kong. PII increased significantly by 14.0%, mainly attributable to the increase in interest payout to non-resident investors from their holdings of resident debt securities.
     
         Analysed by country/territory, the mainland of China continued to be the largest source of Hong Kong’s total primary income inflow in the first quarter of 2025, accounting for 42.4%. This was followed by the British Virgin Islands (BVI), with a share of 16.7%. Regarding total primary income outflow, the mainland of China and the BVI remained the most important destinations in the first quarter of 2025, accounting for 29.9% and 21.3% respectively.
     
    Further Information
     
         GDP and GNI are closely related indicators for measuring economic performance. GDP is a measure of the total value of production of all resident producing units of an economy. GNI denotes the total income earned by residents of an economy from engaging in various economic activities, irrespective of whether the economic activities are carried out within the economic territory of the economy or outside.
     
         Figures of GNI and primary income flows analysed by income component from the second quarter of 2023 to the first quarter of 2025 are presented in Table A, while selected major country/territory breakdowns of primary income inflow and outflow for the same quarters are presented in Tables B(1) and B(2) respectively.
     
         Statistics on GDP and GNI from 2023 onwards and primary income flows from 2024 onwards are subject to revision when more data are incorporated.
     
         More detailed statistics are given in the report “Gross National Income and External Primary Income Flows, First Quarter 2025”. Users can browse and download this publication at the website of the C&SD (www.censtatd.gov.hk/en/EIndexbySubject.html?pcode=B1040005&scode=250).
     
         For enquiries about GNI and related statistics, please contact the Balance of Payments Branch (2) of the C&SD (Tel: 3903 7054 or email: gni@censtatd.gov.hk).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Volume and price statistics of external merchandise trade in April 2025

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Volume and price statistics of external merchandise trade in April 2025 
         In April 2025, the volume of Hong Kong’s total exports of goods and imports of goods increased by 12.3% and 13.4% respectively over April 2024.
     
         Comparing the first four months of 2025 with the same period in 2024, the volume of Hong Kong’s total exports of goods and imports of goods increased by 9.6% and 8.9% respectively.
     
         Comparing the three-month period ending April 2025 with the preceding three months on a seasonally adjusted basis, the volume of total exports of goods and imports of goods increased by 10.4% and 10.3% respectively.
     
         Changes in volume of external merchandise trade are derived from changes in external merchandise trade value with the effect of price changes discounted.
     
         Comparing April 2025 with April 2024, the prices of total exports of goods and imports of goods increased by 2.2% and 2.1% respectively.
     
         As regards price changes in the first four months of 2025 over the same period in 2024, the prices of total exports of goods and imports of goods both increased by 2.0%.
     
         Price changes in external merchandise trade are reflected by changes in unit value indices of external merchandise trade, which are compiled based on average unit values or, for certain commodities, specific price data.
     
         The terms of trade index is derived from the ratio of price index of total exports of goods to that of imports of goods. Compared with the same periods in 2024, the index increased by 0.1% in April 2025, whereas it remained virtually unchanged in the first four months of 2025.
     
         Changes in the unit value and volume of total exports of goods by main destination are shown in Table 1.
     
         Comparing April 2025 with April 2024, increases were recorded for the total export volume to all main destinations: Vietnam (45.3%), India (23.2%), the mainland of China (the Mainland) (20.2%), Taiwan (18.2%) and the USA (0.3%).
     
         Over the same period of comparison, the total export prices to Taiwan (4.8%), the Mainland (2.3%), Vietnam (2.0%) and the USA (0.9%) increased. On the other hand, the total export prices to India decreased by 1.2%.
     
         Changes in the unit value and volume of imports of goods by main supplier are shown in Table 2.
     
         Comparing April 2025 with April 2024, increases were recorded for the import volume from Vietnam (93.6%), Taiwan (41.8%), the Mainland (14.5%) and Singapore (5.0%). On the other hand, the import volume from Korea decreased by 25.8%.
     
         Over the same period of comparison, the import prices from all main suppliers increased: Korea (5.3%), Taiwan (5.2%), Singapore (2.4%), Vietnam (0.7%) and the Mainland (0.6%).
     
    Further information
     
         Details of the above statistics are published in the April 2025 issue of “Hong Kong Merchandise Trade Index Numbers”. Users can browse and download the report at the website of the C&SD (www.censtatd.gov.hk/en/EIndexbySubject.html?pcode=B1020006&scode=230 
         Enquiries on merchandise trade indices may be directed to the Trade Analysis Section of the C&SD (Tel: 2582 4918).
    Issued at HKT 16:30

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Rosanna Law to visit Shanghai

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Culture, Sports & Tourism Rosanna Law will depart for Shanghai tomorrow to officiate at the opening ceremony and dinner of WestK Shanghai Week 2025, at the invitation of the West Kowloon Cultural District Authority. 

    Miss Law will also visit tourism and cultural facilities as well as meet relevant officials before returning to Hong Kong on Wednesday.

    During her absence, Under Secretary for Culture, Sports & Tourism Raistlin Lau will be Acting Secretary.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Lufthansa Group Airlines optimize the travel experience through digital functions

    Source: Lufthansa Group

    Just in time for the summer, Lufthansa Group Airlines has further optimized the travel experience for its passengers with additional digital functions. The Lufthansa Group app, which has been named the best airline app worldwide, serves as a digital companion throughout the entire journey, from booking to arrival and beyond.

     “We are there for our customers and provide them with an all-round service throughout their flight – supported by digital functions. For example, our guests can now plan their trip even more easily and flexibly and count on comprehensive support in the event of last-minute changes,” emphasizes Dieter Vranckx, Chief Commercial Officer of the Lufthansa Group. “I particularly recommend that our passengers create a Travel ID profile. This offers them many advantages and helps to make their journey even more comfortable. With the new digital services, we offer them an optimized travel experience and support them at every stage of their journey.”

     

    The digital innovations at a glance:

    Lufthansa Group app receives further functions

    The Lufthansa Group app now includes even more functions that increase the travel comfort of all passengers. Lufthansa Group customers can now enjoy new, innovative tools, especially when preparing for their trip, starting with a significantly faster flight search and a smoother booking experience.

    In this context, customers are recommended to install the Lufthansa Group Airlines app and create a Travel ID profile. The Travel ID helps to make travel easier: among other things, it is possible to integrate travel documents and save personal data for future and past bookings. Further services will follow gradually. In addition, the Travel ID provides travelers with personalized information and suggested solutions should their original travel plans change unexpectedly. More than 15 million customers have already created a digital profile.

    To make traveling to the USA even more relaxed, the ESTA travel authorization is now already checked during online check-in – and the app’s passport scan has also been further improved. In addition, the passport is simply and conveniently loaded into the app during check-in. This data is also checked in the process. The website also offers a new service with information on entry guidelines and passport or visa requirements for international travel, stored in the Travel ID.

    Status, Business and First Class guests can use the app to quickly and conveniently find their preferred Lufthansa Group lounge nearby – whether in Frankfurt, New York, or Rio de Janeiro. In addition, digital menu cards and e-journals are available to travelers before the flight. Finally, the booking confirmation has also been revised and now appears in a new look.

     

    If something changes

    With the introduction of innovative self-service options, travelers can now adjust their plans more easily and flexibly. Guests whose travel plans have changed can easily and conveniently rebook themselves (in accordance with the fare conditions) on the familiar digital channels such as the Lufthansa Group app – even if they have an existing seat reservation. Passengers who have booked a seat in the new Allegris First and Business Class cabins will automatically receive a refund of the reservation fee in the event of an aircraft change if the selected seat category is no longer available.

    Also practical and available as a service in the app since March: Passengers can cancel the ticket for a single person from a booking for several people and have the individual booking refunded in accordance with the fare conditions. The website also offers a new service with information on entry regulations and passport or visa requirements for international travel. In addition, sports baggage and pets in the cabin can now also be booked quickly and conveniently online.

     

    In the event of flight irregularities and delayed baggage

    Passengers whose seat reservation cannot be maintained due to a change of aircraft will be actively rebooked to a new seat and informed of the seat change. Customers can then change their seat online. From the summer, passengers who have to spend a night in a hotel due to a flight irregularity will also automatically receive a taxi voucher by email or in the app.

    In addition, travelers with an AirTag can now use AirTag Location to securely share the location of their baggage with the baggage tracing system via the familiar digital channels, thereby speeding up delivery in the event of baggage delays. This expands the baggage status information options already available to Lufthansa Group guests in the airline apps.

    If passengers wish to submit suggestions or a compensation claim, Lufthansa Group Airlines is now offering new and improved online forms that automatically check the entries for any discrepancies and thus enable faster processing.

     

    Help Center advises travelers with service requests

    The Help Center, which via the mark symbol can be accessed on the Lufthansa Group websites and airline apps, provides travelers with targeted advice on their service requests and now offers holistic, individualized solutions with the help of artificial intelligence. Passengers with urgent requests, such as a flight within the next eight hours, are given priority support in the personal Service Center. The AI chat assistant, which can resolve many service requests, is available in German, English, Italian, French and Spanish.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Israelis ‘now realise’ what Palestinians and Lebanese have been suffering, says analyst

    Asia Pacific Report

    A Paris-based military and political analyst, Elijah Magnier, says he believes the hostilities between Israel and Iran will only get worse, but that Israeli support for the war may wane if the destruction continues.

    “I think it’s going to continue escalating because we are just in the first days of the war that Israel declared on Iran,” he told Al Jazeera in an interview.

    “And also the Israeli officials, the prime minister and the army, have all warned Israeli society that this war is going to be heavy and . . .  the price is going to be extremely high.

    “But the society that stands behind [Prime Minister] Benjamin Netanyahu and supports the war on Iran did not expect this level of destruction because, since 1973, Israel has not waged a war on a country and never been attacked on this scale, right in the heart of Tel Aviv,” Magnier said.

    “So now they are realising what the Palestinians have been suffering, what the Lebanese have been suffering, and they see the destruction in front of them — buildings in Tel Aviv, in Haifa destroyed, fire everywhere.

    “The properties no longer exist. Eight people killed, 250 wounded in one day.

    “That’s unheard of since a very long time in Israel. So, all that is not something that the Israeli society has been ready for,” added Magnier, veteran war correspondent and political analyst with more than 35 years of experience covering decades of war in the Middle East and North Africa.

    Peters criticised over ‘craven’ statement
    Meanwhile, in Auckland, the Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa (PSNA) criticised New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters for “refusing to condemn Israel for its egregious war crimes of industrial-scale killing and mass starvation of civilians in Gaza”.

    It also said that Peters had “outdone himself with the most craven of tweets on Israel’s massive attack on Iran”.


    Iran missiles strikes on Israel for third day in retaliation to the surprise attack. Video: Al Jazeera

    Co-chair Maher Nazzal said in a statement that minister Peters had said he was “gravely concerned by the escalation in tensions between Israel and Iran” and that “all actors” must “prioritise de-escalation”.

    But there was no mention of Israel as the aggressor and no condemnation of Israel’s attack launched in the middle of negotiations between Iran and the US on Iran’s nuclear programme, said Maher.

    “It’s Mr Peters’ most obsequious tweet yet which leaves a cloud of shame hanging over the country.

    “Appeasement of this rogue state, as our government and other Western countries have done over 20 months, have led Israel to believe it can attack any country it likes with absolute impunity.”

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Receives Phone Call from UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs

    Source: Government of Qatar

    Doha, June 15, 2025

    HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani received a phone call from HH Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the United Arab Emirates Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

    During the call, they discussed cooperation relations between the two countries and ways to support and strengthen them, in addition to the latest developments in the region, particularly the Israeli attack on the territory of the sisterly Islamic Republic of Iran.

    In this context, HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs reiterated the State of Qatar’s strong condemnation and denunciation of the Israeli attack on Iranian territory, considering it a flagrant violation of Iran’s sovereignty and security, and a clear breach of the rules and principles of international law.

    His Excellency also stressed the need for concerted regional and international efforts to de-escalate tensions and resolve disputes through diplomatic means, while affirming that the State of Qatar is making strenuous efforts, along with its partners, for all parties to return to the path of dialogue to address outstanding issues and consolidate security and peace in the region and the world.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Receives Phone Call from UK Foreign Secretary

    Source: Government of Qatar

    Doha, June 15, 2025

    HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani received a phone call from HE Foreign Secretary of the United Kingdom (UK) David Lammy.

    During the call, the two sides discussed cooperation relations and ways to support and strengthen them, as well as the latest developments in the region, particularly the Israeli attack on the territory of the sisterly Islamic Republic of Iran.

    In this context, HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs expressed the State of Qatar’s condemnation of the repeated Israeli violations and aggressions in the region that undermine efforts to achieve peace and threaten to drag the region into a regional war.

    His Excellency additionally stressed the need for regional and international efforts to de-escalate tensions and resolve disputes through diplomatic means, affirming that the State of Qatar is making strenuous efforts, along with its partners, for all parties to return to the path of dialogue to address outstanding issues and consolidate security and peace in the region and the world. 

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs Receive Phone Call from Spanish Foreign Minister

    Source: Government of Qatar

    Doha, June 15, 2025

    HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani received Sunday a phone call from HE Minister of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation of the Kingdom of Spain, Jose Manuel Albares.

    During the call, they discussed bilateral cooperation relations and ways to further support and enhance them. They also reviewed the latest developments in the region, particularly the Israeli attack on the sisterly Islamic Republic of Iran.

    In this context, HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs reiterated the State of Qatar’s strong condemnation of the repeated Israeli violations and attacks in the region, stressing that such actions undermine efforts to achieve peace and risk dragging the region into a wider conflict.

    His Excellency emphasized the urgent need for joint regional and international efforts to de-escalate tensions and resolve disputes through diplomatic channels. He affirmed that the State of Qatar continues to exert intensive efforts, in coordination with its partners, to restore dialogue among all parties, address outstanding issues, and promote security and peace in the region and the world.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Canon, Coral Spawning Lab, and Nature Seychelles Team Up to Regenerate Coral Reefs


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    Canon EMEA (Canon-CNA.com) is partnering with Nature Seychelles, a leading non-profit organisation in the Western Indian Ocean, and the Coral Spawning Lab (CSL), to lead a first-of-its-kind project designed to safeguard the Seychelles’ vital marine ecosystems. The project aims to restore and protect coral reefs against climate change by embracing a new method of coral regeneration in the region.

    Canon will provide investment to Nature Seychelles for the construction and operation of a coral breeding facility as well as Canon imaging equipment to enhance observation and documentation of coral spawning, to be used in citizen science, and for education and awareness. Canon’s equipment will allow researchers to witness coral spawning events in detail previously not seen before.

    This will be the first of its kind in the region and will enhance Nature Seychelles’ new Assisted Recovery of Corals (ARC) facility, a land-based coral aquaculture facility aimed at boosting coral restoration efforts to save reefs from the impacts of climate change.

    With support from Canon and CSL, Nature Seychelles will develop a deeper understanding of coral reproductive timing, post-settlement growth, and survival. The technology provided will also facilitate photomicrography, photogrammetry, and the production of high-quality imagery and videos for researchers.

    The new cutting-edge coral breeding facility will create a genetic bank of resilient coral and document the process like never before. It will be built by CSL – a UK-based team of researchers that work to better understand the life cycles of reefs to equip communities with the information they need to regenerate coral ecosystems. CSL will also provide training in Seychelles to operate the facility.

    Coral reef restoration in the Seychelles has traditionally relied on the “coral gardening” (http://apo-opa.co/45rAo7K) technique where coral fragments are selected from existing reefs and grown in nurseries, before being transplanted back into degraded areas. However, given this process results in a reef populated by genetically identical corals, the technique falls short of creating corals that can routinely withstand the events that degrade them; for example, coral bleaching events, where stress triggered by rising ocean temperatures causes damage to their tissue. The lack of genetic diversity within gardened reefs is a critical weakness, rendering the technique only a temporary fix rather than a long-term solution for improving reef health and resiliency in the region.

    “Currently, we’re essentially cloning corals, creating reefs of genetically identical species,” explains Dr Nirmal Shah, CEO of Nature Seychelles. “Evolution thrives on diversity – the strong, the weak, the healthy, and everything in between. To build truly resilient reefs, we need to embrace true diversity. Canon’s partnership, alongside Coral Spawning Lab’s expertise allows us to do just that, by enabling us to breed corals and create a genetic bank of resilient species. Canon’s technology will also allow us to unlock the secrets of coral reproduction, leading to more effective conservation strategies and, ultimately, inspiring true change in how we protect and regenerate these vital ecosystems “

    Canon’s support is part of its broader commitment to environmental sustainability and using its imaging technology from cameras to satellites to further enable conservation efforts.

    Healthy coral reefs are crucial for the Seychelles’ tourism, fisheries, coastal protection, and biodiversity – and this partnership supports a more sustainable future for the islands.

    “Coral reefs are the foundation of our economy, our environment, and our way of life,” says Dr. Shah. “This partnership with Canon is not just about restoring reefs; it’s about safeguarding the future of the Seychelles.”

    Dr Jamie Craggs, marine biologist and co-founder of the Coral Spawning Lab, says: “The Coral Spawning Lab has always pushed the boundaries of coral reproductive science. This partnership with Canon and Nature Seychelles allows us to continue that tradition of innovation, combining our expertise with their cutting-edge imaging technology to develop new and more effective approaches to coral conservation.

    Working together, we can raise awareness about the urgent need for conservation with a broader audience. As a former underwater cameraman, I know the power of imagery to communicate complex scientific concepts and inspire action. By partnering with Canon, we can share the beauty and fragility of coral reefs with the world.”

    Peter Bragg, Sustainability and Government Affairs Director at Canon EMEA, says “Our partnership with Nature Seychelles and the Coral Spawning Lab in this innovative effort to protect the Seychelles’ vital coral reefs, demonstrates our commitment to biodiversity. The power of our imaging technology and expertise can play a significant role in building a more sustainable future for small island nations facing the challenges of climate change. By providing the tools to see, understand, and share the story of coral reefs, we hope to empower communities and raise awareness to protect these vital ecosystems for generations to come.”

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA).

    Media enquiries, please contact:
    Canon Central and North Africa
    Mai Youssef
    e. Mai.youssef@canon-me.com

    APO Group – PR Agency
    Rania ElRafie
    e. Rania.ElRafie@apo-opa.com

    About Canon Central and North Africa:
    Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA) (Canon-CNA.com) is a division within Canon Middle East FZ LLC (CME), a subsidiary of Canon Europe. The formation of CCNA in 2016 was a strategic step that aimed to enhance Canon’s business within the Africa region – by strengthening Canon’s in-country presence and focus. CCNA also demonstrates Canon’s commitment to operating closer to its customers and meeting their demands in the rapidly evolving African market.

    Canon has been represented in the African continent for more than 15 years through distributors and partners that have successfully built a solid customer base in the region. CCNA ensures the provision of high quality, technologically advanced products that meet the requirements of Africa’s rapidly evolving marketplace. With over 100 employees, CCNA manages sales and marketing activities across 44 countries in Africa.

    Canon’s corporate philosophy is Kyosei (http://apo-opa.co/4jTcjtZ) – ‘living and working together for the common good’. CCNA pursues sustainable business growth, focusing on reducing its own environmental impact and supporting customers to reduce theirs using Canon’s products, solutions and services. At Canon, we are pioneers, constantly redefining the world of imaging for the greater good. Through our technology and our spirit of innovation, we push the bounds of what is possible – helping us to see our world in ways we never have before. We help bring creativity to life, one image at a time. Because when we can see our world, we can transform it for the better.

    For more information: Canon-CNA.com

    About Nature Seychelles:
    Nature Seychelles is a leading environmental organization dedicated to the conservation and sustainable management of the Seychelles’ natural resources. Through research, education, and community engagement, Nature Seychelles works to protect the Seychelles’ unique biodiversity and promote a sustainable future for the islands.

    About Coral Spawning Lab:
    Coral Spawning Lab are pioneers in land-based sexual coral reproduction. Their groundbreaking research, technical expertise in coral propagation, and extensive experience in restoration projects enable them to advance research and selective breeding programs—helping repair damaged coral reefs at scales that can make a meaningful difference to our oceans and our planet. Their goal is to empower and equip every practitioner, reef manager, and restorer with the tools and knowledge needed to spawn coral in land-based facilities.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: South African citizens in the Islamic Republic of Iran requested to ensure they are registered with the Embassy


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    South Africa wishes to urge all its citizens currently in the Islamic Republic of Iran to contact the Embassy in Tehran to ensure that they are registered with and that their whereabouts are known to the Embassy.

    It is important to note that South Africa’s support in the country is limited and that it could be assumed that no face-to-face consular assistance will be possible in an emergency and the South African Government may not be able to help you if you get into difficulty, depending on your location.

    Therefore, citizens are further encouraged to assess their own safety and security and act accordingly.

    The following contacts may be used:

    Tehran:

    Telephone: +98-912-230-8968
    Telephone: +98-930-495-8965

    Helpline of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation in Pretoria, RSA:

    Telephone: +27 12 351 1000

    The web page of DIRCO may be consulted for further contact information (www.dirco.gov.za).

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: Department of International Relations and Cooperation.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: South Africa condemns targeting of civilians, urges de-escalation between Iran and Israel


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    South Africa expresses deep concern regarding the escalation of hostilities between the State of Israel and Islamic Republic of Iran. We extend our deepest condolences to the peoples of both nations suffering from the tragic loss of life.

    South Africa emphasises that under international humanitarian law, civilians and civilian infrastructure must never be considered legitimate targets.

    We reiterate our urgent call for de-escalation, restraint, and full compliance with international law by all parties to prevent further human suffering.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: Department of International Relations and Cooperation.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dialogue with future engineers. The first visit of the head of Rosavtodor Roman Novikov to polytechnicians

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    A meeting of students and teachers of the Polytechnic University with the head of the Federal Road Agency of the Ministry of Transport of the Russian Federation, Roman Novikov, took place at the Polytechnic University.

    Roman Novikov gave a lecture in which he spoke in detail about the preparation and construction of such iconic objects as the Crimean Bridge and the Russian Bridge. He touched upon the current goals and objectives of the road industry, its development prospects, issues of implementing the national project “Infrastructure for Life”, and spoke about interesting episodes in the implementation of major road projects.

    Roman Vitalyevich discussed with the meeting participants approaches to attracting young specialists to the professional environment through the personnel policy of Rosavtodor and answered questions from students and teachers.

    For Roman Novikov, this was his first visit to the Polytechnic. He noted the high level of scientific and educational potential of the university, its historical significance and practical focus of education.

    During the tour of the university campus, the head of Rosavtodor visited key sites. In the SPbPU History Museum, he was presented with exhibits reflecting more than a century of the university’s history. In the Technopolis Polytech research building, the delegation got acquainted with the university’s modern scientific and educational capabilities.

    The Polytechnic University is one of the largest technical universities in the country with historically strong scientific schools, having undeniable results and achievements in scientific, educational and innovative activities, noted Roman Novikov.

    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: Animal Welfare – Three Greyhounds Dead in Three Days Underscores Need for Racing Ban

    Source: Greyhound Protection League of New Zealand

    Quick facts:

    • Three greyhounds died in three days of racing in New Zealand this week (12–14 June).

    • Fifteen greyhounds have died on racetracks so far in the 2024/25 season, with six weeks still remaining.

    • An alarming spike in lure-collapse deaths: six dogs this season, including three from the McInerney kennels: a family with a long history of serious welfare breaches.

    • Meanwhile GRNZ is facing a rehoming crisis of its own making: 672 dogs were awaiting adoption as of 1 November 2024, 349 of them still with trainers, not yet in the rehoming process. That number rose to 723 by 1 February 2025.

    • Despite this, in October 2024, GRNZ reported plans to increase breeding.

    • The Government has to hold firm, introduce legislation, and enforce the ban before more dogs pay with their lives.

    Three greyhounds have died on New Zealand racetracks in just three days of racing: a brutal illustration of the industry’s ongoing welfare crisis and the urgent need for the forthcoming ban.

    The three deaths occurred across three racetracks this week:

    • Homebush Sydney was euthanised on Wednesday 12 June after suffering a catastrophic spiral fracture of the left femur during a race in Invercargill (source).

    • Homebush Feijoa collapsed and died at the lure in Christchurch on Friday 13 June (source).


    • Midnight Brockie, also racing on Friday, suffered a fractured right hock and tibia with complete displacement at Whanganui and was euthanised trackside (source).

    “This is not reform. This is carnage,” said Emily Robertson, spokesperson for the Greyhound Protection League of New Zealand (GPLNZ). “Three dogs dead in three days of racing – and still this industry has the audacity to challenge the government’s decision to shut it down. It’s beyond belief.”

    Midnight Brockie, just three years old, had raced 49 times and earned $45,470 in prize money before her death. She was the littermate of Brockie’s Rocket, another greyhound who collapsed and died at the lure in Manukau in September 2024 (source).

    Greyhounds collapsing and dying at the end of their race – sometimes even after winning – is a particularly alarming new trend that has emerged over the past two seasons. In the 2023/24 racing season, three dogs died this way. So far in the 2024/25 season, that number has doubled, with six greyhounds collapsing and dying at the lure, including three from the Darfield, Canterbury kennels of trainer Jonathan McInerney.

    The McInerney family has a long and troubling history in the greyhound racing industry. In 2023, John McInerney Sr was banned from the sport for 12 months by the Racing Integrity Board (RIB) after being found guilty of multiple serious animal welfare breaches, including failing to provide veterinary care and pain relief to a dog for three weeks. The dog was later diagnosed with cancer and euthanised (source).

    In the same ruling, two dogs at his Manawatū satellite facility – operated by another son, Stephen McInerney – tested positive for methamphetamine and amphetamine.

    John McInerney Sr has faced a raft of other RIB charges. The most serious in recent years include:

    So far, 15 greyhounds have been killed on New Zealand racetracks since 1 August 2024, with six weeks of the racing season still to go. These figures reflect deaths alone, not the hundreds of serious injuries, including fractures, torn muscles, and other trauma that greyhounds continue to suffer on tracks every single week. GPLNZ warns that further deaths are likely unless urgent action is taken.

    “These aren’t freak accidents. They’re the inevitable result of a system that treats dogs as disposable,” said Robertson. “Despite repeated reviews, recommendations, and reassurances of reform, dogs continue to suffer and die.”

    In December 2024, the Government announced – with support from all political parties – that it would phase out greyhound racing in 20 months, after the industry was formally put on notice in September 2022. The ban decision followed multiple reviews, including the WHK Report (2013), the Hansen Report (2017), and the Robertson Review (2021), all of which raised serious concerns about animal welfare, high euthanasia and injury rates, data, and transparency in the industry.

    GRNZ is now seeking a judicial review to challenge the ban, a move GPLNZ describes as “a desperate attempt that delays the inevitable and prolongs the suffering of greyhounds used and abused by this industry.”

    “GRNZ should be focusing on ensuring no more dogs are harmed, winding down racing, and rehoming the dogs it claims to care about,” said Robertson. “The truth is, GRNZ is in the midst of a rehoming crisis of its own making – one that was already worsening even before the ban was announced.”

    Figures from the Racing Integrity Board, the agency tasked with overseeing all three racing codes in New Zealand, show that as of 1 November 2024, 672 greyhounds were awaiting adoption, with 349 of them still housed with their trainers, not yet in rehoming centres or foster care (source).

    “In their own annual report, GRNZ claimed to have rehomed 673 dogs in the 2023/24 season, meaning a full year’s worth of dogs were already sitting, waiting, and hoping for a home. That number rose to 723 by 1 February 2025 following the Government’s announcement of the ban,” Robertson said.

    “And instead of urgently addressing this backlog, GRNZ is spending its time and resources in court trying to keep this inherently dangerous industry alive — and perversely had actually planned to increase breeding numbers.”

    According to its own Animal Welfare Quarterly Progress Report (31 October 2024, p.12):

    “…an uplift is required to maintain current racing levels and the industry’s overall contribution to the economy. Providing support and incentives to encourage and sustain the breeding industry will be a key focus for GRNZ in 2025 and beyond.”

    GPLNZ is calling on the Government to hold firm, introduce legislation, and enforce the ban before more dogs pay with their lives.

    Notes:

    Greyhounds killed in the 2024/25 racing season on track are:

    1. Midnight Brockie – 13 June – Whanganui – fractured right hock and tibia with complete displacement

    2. Homebush Feijoa – 13 June – Addington – collapsed and died at the lure 

    3. Homebush Sydney – 11 June – Invercargill- spiral fracture left femur – euthanasia post race 

    4. Carrington Magic – 16 May – Whanganui  – open spiral fracture of left tibia fibula 

    5. Big Time Hinda – 10 April – Cambridge – collapsed at lure and dead on arrival 

    6. Know Motor – 8 March – Addington – fractured right radios ulna and died after surgery 

    7. Homebush Honey – 13 March – Addington – collapsed and died at track trial 

    8. Homebush Milo – 7 March – Addington – collapsed at lure and dead on arrival 

    9. Highview Amber – 27 December- Whanganui – complete fractures of left and right radius ulnas

    10. Call the tune – 13 December – Addington – cramp at lure, collapse in wash bay, transported to vet and euthanised due to an unmanageable hemorrhagic shock 

    11. Diamond Roman – 10 December – Invercargill- compound fracture of right tibia fibula which was severely comminuted and displaced 

    12. Homebush Shadow – Wednesday 27 November – Invercargill – complete fracture of the left radius ulna

    13. What’s on – 18 October – Addington – incident at lure, severe neck pain – diagnosed with fractured vertebrae and due to severity of fracture was euthanased 

    14. Brockie’s Rocket – 29 September – Manukau – collapsed and died at the lure (autopsy result – spontaneous tension pneumothorax)

    15. Rocket Queen – 20 September 2024 – Addington – compound fracture to its radius/ulna.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: OLAF exposes fraud involving over €870 million

    Source: European Anti-Fraud Offfice

    Press release no 16/2025
    PDF version

    This press release is translated into all official EU languages. Select your language on the top of the page.

    In 2024, the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) recommended the recovery of more than €870 million in misused EU funds, according to its annual report released today. OLAF investigators also prevented over €40 million from being improperly spent, reinforcing OLAF’s role as guardian of the EU budget. Over the year, OLAF closed 246 investigations and issued 301 recommendations to national and EU authorities, while opening 230 new investigations.

    This report marks not only a strong year of operations, but also OLAF’s 25th anniversary – underscoring a quarter-century of dedicated service in protecting the EU’s financial interests and reaffirming OLAF’s leading role in the fight against fraud. 

    Key figures in 2024: 

    • OLAF recommended the recovery of €871.5 million to the EU budget
    • OLAF prevented €43.5 million from being unduly spent from the EU budget
    • An additional €419.2 million in revenue (import duties and VAT) was safeguarded through precautionary and preventive actions
    • OLAF closed 246 investigations, issuing 301 recommendations for follow-up to the relevant national and EU authorities
    • OLAF opened 230 new investigations, following 1138 preliminary analyses carried out by OLAF experts.

    From complex financial fraud and cross-border illicit trade to customs violations, environmental fraud, and the prevention of sanctions evasion, OLAF has consistently demonstrated its relevance and adaptability in the face of evolving challenges. In the last three years, OLAF investigations have led to the recovery of €4.5 billion and the prevention of more than €800 million in irregular spending — clear evidence of its crucial role in safeguarding the EU’s financial interests.

     “In 2024, we continued to fight fraud on all fronts,” said OLAF Director-General Ville Itälä. “Whether it’s protecting EU investment in local communities, safeguarding health through action against counterfeit goods or ensuring that the EU funds are used properly and continue to serve its purpose – OLAF is here to detect, act and safeguard”. 

    “We remain committed to our purpose: to ensure fairness and protect EU citizens, businesses, and communities. The closer we collaborate, the better outcomes we achieve, more effectively safeguarding taxpayers’ money and deterring potential fraudsters”, he continued. 

    “It’s incredibly fulfilling to know that our investigations have helped protect people’s health, kept dangerous products off the market, preserved the environment, and strengthened trust in the EU institutions. That’s what drives us every day.”

    Investigations in the EU and beyond

    During the year, OLAF’s work spanned across EU countries and beyond. This year, OLAF particularly observed a high number of cases involving conflict of interests, procurement manipulation, inflated costs and workplace harassment. 

    In one particular Member State, OLAF uncovered a corruption network and ensured that the necessary measures were taken to recover €75 million EU funds meant to finance 112 projects aimed at improving citizens’ lives and a challenged economy.  

    In another instance, investigation took OLAF to Western Africa where we detected irregularities linked to EU funds earmarked for modernisation of local schools. 

    Keeping the EU accountable 

    OLAF continues to play a crucial role in ensuring that EU officials are held to the highest ethical standards. In the past year, OLAF closed several internal investigations into alleged misconduct by staff and members of EU institutions — a key part of its mission to protect the Union’s integrity and to ensure that everyone is held accountable to the highest standards of conduct. 

    OLAF’s internal investigations during the last year focused mainly on complex and sensitive cases, like those involving staff in senior management positions or those with a high profile in their workplace. This includes allegations of harassment, conflict of interests, ethical issues linked to recruitment and external activities. 

    Rise of environmental fraud 

    OLAF investigators have been stepping up efforts against schemes that violate EU environmental laws and threaten biodiversity. Multiple investigations carried out in 2024 have uncovered illegal activities such as the trafficking of harmful fluorinated greenhouse gases (F-gases) and the unlawful export of plastic waste — both of which have serious and lasting impacts on the planet.

    These environmental crimes not only breach EU regulations but also undermine global efforts to combat climate change and pollution. Meanwhile, in the digital domain, OLAF observed increasing misuse of e-commerce platforms to sell counterfeit or undervalued imports. These goods often include fake medicines and other dangerous items. In coordination with customs authorities, OLAF targeted these illicit networks and helped intercept large consignments.

    “Our cooperation with national authorities and other partners remains essential to our success. It allows swift information exchange, coordinated action and stronger results in protecting the EU’s financial interest. We look forward to further enhancing this cooperation under the ongoing European anti-fraud architecture review”, said Itälä.

    The OLAF report 2024 is available on OLAF’s website.

    OLAF mission, mandate and competences:
    OLAF’s mission is to detect, investigate and stop fraud with EU funds.    

    OLAF fulfils its mission by:
    •    carrying out independent investigations into fraud and corruption involving EU funds, so as to ensure that all EU taxpayers’ money reaches projects that can create jobs and growth in Europe;
    •    contributing to strengthening citizens’ trust in the EU Institutions by investigating serious misconduct by EU staff and members of the EU Institutions;
    •    developing a sound EU anti-fraud policy.

    In its independent investigative function, OLAF can investigate matters relating to fraud, corruption and other offences affecting the EU financial interests concerning:
    •    all EU expenditure: the main spending categories are Structural Funds, agricultural policy and rural development funds, direct expenditure and external aid;
    •    some areas of EU revenue, mainly customs duties;
    •    suspicions of serious misconduct by EU staff and members of the EU institutions.

    Once OLAF has completed its investigation, it is for the competent EU and national authorities to examine and decide on the follow-up of OLAF’s recommendations. All persons concerned are presumed to be innocent until proven guilty in a competent national or EU court of law.

    For further details:

    Pierluigi CATERINO
    Spokesperson
    European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF)
    Phone: +32(0)2 29-52335  
    Email: olaf-media ec [dot] europa [dot] eu (olaf-media[at]ec[dot]europa[dot]eu)
    https://anti-fraud.ec.europa.eu

    LinkedIn: European Anti-Fraud Office
    X: x.com/EUAntiFraud
    Bluesky: euantifraud.bsky.social

    If you’re a journalist and you wish to receive our press releases in your inbox, please leave us your contact data.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: What is uranium enrichment and how is it used for nuclear bombs? A scientist explains

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kaitlin Cook, DECRA Fellow, Department of Nuclear Physics and Accelerator Applications, Australian National University

    Uranium ore. RHJPhtotos/Shutterstock

    Late last week, Israel targeted three of Iran’s key nuclear facilities – Natanz, Isfahan and Fordow, killing several Iranian nuclear scientists. The facilities are heavily fortified and largely underground, and there are conflicting reports of how much damage has been done.

    Natanz and Fordow are Iran’s uranium enrichment sites, and Isfahan provides the raw materials, so any damage to these sites would limit Iran’s ability to produce nuclear weapons.

    But what exactly is uranium enrichment and why does it raise concerns?

    To understand what it means to “enrich” uranium, you need to know a little about uranium isotopes and about splitting the atom in a nuclear fission reaction.

    What is an isotope?

    All matter is made of atoms, which in turn are made up of protons, neutrons and electrons. The number of protons is what gives atoms their chemical properties, setting apart the various chemical elements.

    Atoms have equal numbers of protons and electrons. Uranium has 92 protons, for example, while carbon has six. However, the same element can have different numbers of neutrons, forming versions of the element called isotopes.

    This hardly matters for chemical reactions, but their nuclear reactions can be wildly different.

    The difference between uranium-238 and uranium-235

    When we dig uranium out of the ground, 99.27% of it is uranium-238, which has 92 protons and 146 neutrons. Only 0.72% of it is uranium-235 with 92 protons and 143 neutrons (the remaining 0.01% are other isotopes).

    For nuclear power reactors or weapons, we need to change the isotope proportions. That’s because of the two main uranium isotopes, only uranium-235 can support a fission chain reaction: one neutron causes an atom to fission, which produces energy and some more neutrons, causing more fission, and so on.

    This chain reaction releases a tremendous amount of energy. In a nuclear weapon, the goal is to have this chain reaction occur in a fraction of a second, producing a nuclear explosion.

    In a civilian nuclear power plant, the chain reaction is controlled. Nuclear power plants currently produce 9% of the world’s power. Another vital civilian use of nuclear reactions is for producing isotopes used in nuclear medicine for the diagnosis and treatment of various diseases.

    What is uranium enrichment, then?

    To “enrich” uranium means taking the naturally found element and increasing the proportion of uranium-235 while removing uranium-238.

    There are a few ways to do this (including new inventions from Australia), but commercially, enrichment is currently done with a centrifuge. This is also the case in Iran’s facilities.

    Centrifuges exploit the fact that uranium-238 is about 1% heavier than uranium-235. They take uranium (in gas form) and use rotors to spin it at 50,000 to 70,000 rotations per minute, with the outer walls of the centrifuges moving at 400 to 500 metres per second.

    This works much like a salad spinner that throws water to the sides while the salad leaves stay in the centre. The heavier uranium-238 moves to the edges of the centrifuge, leaving the uranium-235 in the middle.

    This is only so effective, so the spinning process is done over and over again, building up the percentage of the uranium-235.

    Most civilian nuclear reactors use “low enriched uranium” that’s been enriched to between 3% and 5%. This means that 3–5% of the total uranium in the sample is now uranium-235. That’s enough to sustain a chain reaction and make electricity.

    What level of enrichment do nuclear weapons need?

    To get an explosive chain reaction, uranium-235 needs to be concentrated significantly more than the levels we use in nuclear reactors for making power or medicines.

    Technically, a nuclear weapon can be made with as little as 20% uranium-235 (known as “highly enriched uranium”), but the more the uranium is enriched, the smaller and lighter the weapon can be. Countries with nuclear weapons tend to use about 90% enriched, “weapons-grade” uranium.

    According to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Iran has enriched large quantities of uranium to 60%. It’s actually easier to go from an enrichment of 60% to 90% than it is to get to that initial 60%. That’s because there’s less and less uranium-238 to get rid of.

    This is why Iran is considered to be at extreme risk of producing nuclear weapons, and why centrifuge technology for enrichment is kept secret.

    Ultimately, the exact same centrifuge technology that produces fuel for civilian reactors can be used to produce nuclear weapons.

    Inspectors from the IAEA monitor nuclear facilities worldwide to ensure countries are abiding by the rules set out in the global nuclear non-proliferation treaty. While Iran maintains it’s only enriching uranium for “peaceful purposes”, late last week the IAEA board ruled Iran was in breach of its obligations under the treaty.

    Kaitlin Cook receives funding from the Australian Research Council.

    – ref. What is uranium enrichment and how is it used for nuclear bombs? A scientist explains – https://theconversation.com/what-is-uranium-enrichment-and-how-is-it-used-for-nuclear-bombs-a-scientist-explains-259031

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Ursula von der Leyen at G7 Summit: “All of us need to avoid protectionism”

    Source: European Commission (video statements)

    European Commission President is taking part in this year’s G7 Leader Summit in Kananaskis, Canada. Watch on the Audiovisual Portal of the European Commission:
    Follow us on:
    -X: https://twitter.com/EU_Commission
    -Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/europeancommission/
    -Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EuropeanCommission
    -LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/european-commission/
    -Medium: https://medium.com/@EuropeanCommission

    Check our website: http://ec.europa.eu/

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UV-H1dYeEuw

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi leaves for 2nd China-Central Asia Summit 2025-06-16 14:37:29 Chinese President Xi Jinping left Beijing on Monday for the second China-Central Asia Summit in Astana at the invitation of President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.

    Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense

      BEIJING, June 16 (Xinhua) — Chinese President Xi Jinping left Beijing on Monday for the second China-Central Asia Summit in Astana at the invitation of President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.

      Xi’s entourage includes Cai Qi, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and director of the General Office of the CPC Central Committee, and Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and foreign minister. 

    loading…

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s retail sales expand markedly in May

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

    China’s market sales rebounded markedly in May, with total retail sales of consumer goods reaching 4.13 trillion yuan (US$575.3 billion), marking a year-on-year increase of 6.4%, the National Bureau of Statistics announced at a Monday press conference. The increase was 1.3 percentage points higher than April’s year-on-year growth rate of 5.1%.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • India Inc’s operating profit margins likely to rise to 18.5% in Q1 FY26: ICRA report

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India Inc’s operating profit margins are expected to rise by 10 to 40 basis points to 18.2–18.5% in the first quarter (April–June) of FY2026, continuing the sequential recovery seen over the past few quarters, according to a report released by rating agency ICRA on Monday.

    “This, coupled with a moderation in interest costs due to the Reserve Bank of India’s recent cumulative repo rate cuts of 100 basis points, is expected to improve the interest coverage ratio for India Inc. to around 5.1–5.2 times in Q1 FY2026, compared to 5.0 times in Q4 FY2025,” the report stated.

    Kinjal Shah, Senior Vice President at ICRA, noted, “Given the uncertain global environment, the private capital expenditure (capex) cycle is expected to remain measured. However, certain sunrise sectors such as electronics, semiconductors, and niche segments within the automotive space like electric vehicles will continue to attract investment, supported by the Government of India’s production-linked incentive (PLI) schemes.”

    He further added that entities linked to Indian Railways and the Defence sector are likely to see their large order books translating into higher revenues and earnings.

    ICRA’s analysis of 589 listed companies (excluding financial sector entities) for Q4 FY2025 revealed a 7.6% year-on-year revenue growth. This was driven by improved demand across consumption-oriented sectors such as consumer durables, retail, hotels, and airlines, as well as infrastructure-related sectors like power, real estate, and construction. In contrast, sectors such as iron and steel experienced a decline due to weaker global demand and an influx of cheaper imports from China.

    India Inc is expected to post stable revenue growth in Q1 FY2026, supported by resilient domestic demand. Rural demand is projected to remain healthy, while urban demand is likely to recover, aided by income tax relief measures, easing food inflation, and lower EMIs.

    However, ongoing geopolitical tensions continue to weigh on sentiment, particularly for export-oriented sectors such as agrochemicals, textiles, auto and auto components, cut and polished diamonds, and IT services.

    In Q4 FY2025, India Inc recorded a 63-basis-point year-on-year increase in operating profit margins to 18.5%, marking the highest level since Q4 FY2022. This expansion was driven by improved operating leverage on the back of strong demand in sectors like power, airlines, and real estate, along with some moderation in input costs. Sequentially, margins improved by around 41 basis points during the quarter.

    ICRA also observed that the interest coverage ratio of its sample set—adjusted to exclude sectors with relatively low debt levels such as IT, FMCG, and pharmaceuticals—improved on a year-on-year basis to 5.0 times in Q4 FY2025, up from 4.8 times in Q4 FY2024, owing to better profitability.

    Furthermore, range-bound debt levels and improved profitability across industrial, capital goods, and construction sectors in FY2025 contributed to a stronger financial position, as reflected in improved gearing and better debt-to-operating profit ratios.

    — IANS

  • India Inc’s operating profit margins likely to rise to 18.5% in Q1 FY26: ICRA report

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India Inc’s operating profit margins are expected to rise by 10 to 40 basis points to 18.2–18.5% in the first quarter (April–June) of FY2026, continuing the sequential recovery seen over the past few quarters, according to a report released by rating agency ICRA on Monday.

    “This, coupled with a moderation in interest costs due to the Reserve Bank of India’s recent cumulative repo rate cuts of 100 basis points, is expected to improve the interest coverage ratio for India Inc. to around 5.1–5.2 times in Q1 FY2026, compared to 5.0 times in Q4 FY2025,” the report stated.

    Kinjal Shah, Senior Vice President at ICRA, noted, “Given the uncertain global environment, the private capital expenditure (capex) cycle is expected to remain measured. However, certain sunrise sectors such as electronics, semiconductors, and niche segments within the automotive space like electric vehicles will continue to attract investment, supported by the Government of India’s production-linked incentive (PLI) schemes.”

    He further added that entities linked to Indian Railways and the Defence sector are likely to see their large order books translating into higher revenues and earnings.

    ICRA’s analysis of 589 listed companies (excluding financial sector entities) for Q4 FY2025 revealed a 7.6% year-on-year revenue growth. This was driven by improved demand across consumption-oriented sectors such as consumer durables, retail, hotels, and airlines, as well as infrastructure-related sectors like power, real estate, and construction. In contrast, sectors such as iron and steel experienced a decline due to weaker global demand and an influx of cheaper imports from China.

    India Inc is expected to post stable revenue growth in Q1 FY2026, supported by resilient domestic demand. Rural demand is projected to remain healthy, while urban demand is likely to recover, aided by income tax relief measures, easing food inflation, and lower EMIs.

    However, ongoing geopolitical tensions continue to weigh on sentiment, particularly for export-oriented sectors such as agrochemicals, textiles, auto and auto components, cut and polished diamonds, and IT services.

    In Q4 FY2025, India Inc recorded a 63-basis-point year-on-year increase in operating profit margins to 18.5%, marking the highest level since Q4 FY2022. This expansion was driven by improved operating leverage on the back of strong demand in sectors like power, airlines, and real estate, along with some moderation in input costs. Sequentially, margins improved by around 41 basis points during the quarter.

    ICRA also observed that the interest coverage ratio of its sample set—adjusted to exclude sectors with relatively low debt levels such as IT, FMCG, and pharmaceuticals—improved on a year-on-year basis to 5.0 times in Q4 FY2025, up from 4.8 times in Q4 FY2024, owing to better profitability.

    Furthermore, range-bound debt levels and improved profitability across industrial, capital goods, and construction sectors in FY2025 contributed to a stronger financial position, as reflected in improved gearing and better debt-to-operating profit ratios.

    — IANS

  • Amitabh Kant steps down as G20 Sherpa after 45 years of government service

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Amitabh Kant on Monday announced his decision to step down as the G20 Sherpa. His resignation comes after 45 years of government service in various roles, including G20 Sherpa, CEO of NITI Aayog, and Secretary of the Department for Industrial Policy and Promotion, among others.

    “After 45 years of dedicated government service, I have made the decision to embrace new opportunities and move forward in life,” Kant said in a post on X, titled ‘My New Journey’. He thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for accepting his resignation and for entrusting him with key policy responsibilities during his tenure.

    Describing the G20 Summit in India as a “significant milestone” in his career, Kant wrote in a LinkedIn post: “India’s G20 presidency was people-centric and inclusive, with meetings held across all states and union territories. This strengthened cooperative federalism, celebrated local culture, and upgraded infrastructure nationwide.”

    Kant also highlighted the successful inclusion of the African Union in the G20, which fulfilled India’s commitment to global equity and to amplifying the voice of the Global South.

    During his time at NITI Aayog, Kant led flagship initiatives such as the Aspirational Districts Programme, aimed at improving governance and development indicators in 115 of India’s most underdeveloped districts. He also played a pivotal role in shaping India’s digital public infrastructure, and championed innovation through the Atal Innovation Mission, manufacturing reforms via the PLI scheme, and sustainability through missions such as Green Hydrogen and Advanced Chemistry Cells.

    As Secretary of the DIPP, Kant played a significant role in rolling out major initiatives such as Ease of Doing Business, Make in India, and Startup India.

    Tracing his career to its roots in Kerala, Kant said his early exposure to grassroots development informed his later efforts — including the globally recognised Incredible India tourism campaign, which he described as inspired by the sector’s potential for job creation and economic growth.

    Kant’s next chapter, he said, would focus on contributing to India’s journey towards Viksit Bharat by empowering enterprise and innovation.

  • Amitabh Kant steps down as G20 Sherpa after 45 years of government service

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Amitabh Kant on Monday announced his decision to step down as the G20 Sherpa. His resignation comes after 45 years of government service in various roles, including G20 Sherpa, CEO of NITI Aayog, and Secretary of the Department for Industrial Policy and Promotion, among others.

    “After 45 years of dedicated government service, I have made the decision to embrace new opportunities and move forward in life,” Kant said in a post on X, titled ‘My New Journey’. He thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for accepting his resignation and for entrusting him with key policy responsibilities during his tenure.

    Describing the G20 Summit in India as a “significant milestone” in his career, Kant wrote in a LinkedIn post: “India’s G20 presidency was people-centric and inclusive, with meetings held across all states and union territories. This strengthened cooperative federalism, celebrated local culture, and upgraded infrastructure nationwide.”

    Kant also highlighted the successful inclusion of the African Union in the G20, which fulfilled India’s commitment to global equity and to amplifying the voice of the Global South.

    During his time at NITI Aayog, Kant led flagship initiatives such as the Aspirational Districts Programme, aimed at improving governance and development indicators in 115 of India’s most underdeveloped districts. He also played a pivotal role in shaping India’s digital public infrastructure, and championed innovation through the Atal Innovation Mission, manufacturing reforms via the PLI scheme, and sustainability through missions such as Green Hydrogen and Advanced Chemistry Cells.

    As Secretary of the DIPP, Kant played a significant role in rolling out major initiatives such as Ease of Doing Business, Make in India, and Startup India.

    Tracing his career to its roots in Kerala, Kant said his early exposure to grassroots development informed his later efforts — including the globally recognised Incredible India tourism campaign, which he described as inspired by the sector’s potential for job creation and economic growth.

    Kant’s next chapter, he said, would focus on contributing to India’s journey towards Viksit Bharat by empowering enterprise and innovation.

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Celebrations as two more become Schools of Sanctuary

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    The Royal School Wolverhampton Primary and Ormiston NEW Academy showed assessors from the City of Sanctuary UK movement that they celebrate their diverse communities, and that the School of Sanctuary ethos of welcome, inclusion and safety for all, runs through all aspects of both schools.

    Achieving the School of Sanctuary status is the culmination of dedicated and ongoing efforts to ensure that every child, staff member and family feels represented, included, and valued.

    The Royal School Deputy Head of Primary Hayley Green said: “We are delighted to have been awarded School of Sanctuary status — a recognition of the incredible work and dedication of our whole school community.

    “This award celebrates the inclusive ethos that runs through everything we do, from our Young Interpreters to the everyday actions of all our amazing staff, pupils, and families who help make our school a warm, welcoming place for all. We’re proud of this achievement and grateful to everyone who continues to contribute to our culture of care, compassion, and belonging.

    “We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Citizenship, Literacy and Language Advisory Teacher Claire Sumner for her unwavering support throughout this journey. Claire was instrumental in helping us develop a focused action plan tailored to our school’s unique context, and her guidance during our School of Sanctuary application process has been both expert and encouraging.

    “This award is something we are all be truly proud of and belongs to all of us — staff, pupils, and families — who make our school such a safe and welcoming place for everyone where diversity is celebrated, support is proactive, and every child is given the opportunity to thrive.”

    Eleanor Tomlinson, Educational and Child Psychologist at Ormiston NEW Academy, said: “We are delighted to have achieved the School of Sanctuary Award.

    “We are extremely proud of the many different cultures and backgrounds of our student population here at Ormiston NEW Academy. This award recognises the hard work of staff, students and parents in building our diverse community, where all cultures are welcomed and celebrated, and all students can thrive. We look forward to sharing our knowledge and experience, supporting other local schools to work towards School of Sanctuary status.”

    The two schools have joined a growing group of educational institutions across the city that have achieved School of Sanctuary accreditation, further solidifying Wolverhampton’s reputation as a place of inclusion and sanctuary for all.

    Other Schools of Sanctuary include Bantock Primary, Dunstall Hill Primary, Goldthorn Park Primary, Graiseley Primary, Rakegate Primary, St Andrews CofE Primary, St Lukes CofE Primary, St Regis CofE Academy, Stowlawn Primary, St Mary’s Catholic Primary Academy, Villiers Primary, West Park Primary, Merridale Primary, Wodensfield Primary School, St Michael’s CE Primary School, SS Peter and Paul Catholic Primary School, St Teresa’s Catholic Primary Academy and Colton Hills Community School.

    Councillor Jacqui Coogan, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education, said: “We are delighted that we now have 20 Schools of Sanctuary in Wolverhampton, which are all demonstrating the lengths they go to ensure they provide a safe and welcoming place for their children and families.”

    Schools can apply to become a School of Sanctuary by demonstrating to City of Sanctuary UK that they have implemented 3 key principles – learning and helping people understand what it means to be seeking sanctuary, embedding the concepts of safety, welcome and inclusive culture for everyone, and sharing their values and activities with their local communities.

    The Schools of Sanctuary programme is part of the City of Sanctuary UK movement, committed to building a culture of safety and welcome, especially for refugees seeking sanctuary from war and persecution. For more information, please visit Schools of Sanctuary. 
     

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: First Step assisted purchase housing scheme reopens16 June 2025 ​The Minister for Housing has re-opened a successful scheme to help Islanders buy their first home. First Step, which helps aspiring homeowners onto the property ladder, opened again on Monday 16 June.… Read more

    Source: Channel Islands – Jersey

    16 June 2025

    ​

    The Minister for Housing has re-opened a successful scheme to help Islanders buy their first home. 

    First Step, which helps aspiring homeowners onto the property ladder, opened again on Monday 16 June. 

    Since last year, more than 50 open-market homes have been purchased as a result of the £10 million of Government funding, which paid for loans of up to 40% towards the property purchase. This year, £2m has been added for a further tranche. 

    The loans have helped Islanders purchase properties of all sizes, ranging from one-bedroom flats to four-bedroom houses. First Step, which is delivered in partnership with Andium Homes, was launched by Deputy Sam Mézec in February last year. The Minister said that he was delighted to reopen the scheme for a fourth time. 

    “I have seen for myself how much the scheme has made a real difference to Islanders who would have otherwise been unable to own their first home,” he said. “It is a meaningful way of tackling Jersey’s housing crisis and giving Islanders hope that they can access homeownership affordably and securely with the help of Government. 

    “We have also seen how well the scheme has been received and understood by the housing market, and I am grateful for all the work of estate agents, law firms, and mortgage providers in working with Government and Andium Homes to make a real success of the scheme.” 

    The scheme will be open to applications from Monday 16 June for four weeks, closing on Sunday 13 July. 

    Applicants must: 

    • hold Entitled status 
    • not own any property in Jersey or overseas 
    • be registered on the Assisted Purchase Pathway 
    • be able to provide a 5 per cent deposit towards the purchase 
    • be able to access the maximum lending available to them from one of the scheme’s partnering mortgage lenders 
    • not be under offer on another assisted purchase scheme. 

    Islanders must be registered on the Assisted Purchase Pathway before applying for First Step. If someone is already registered on the Assisted Purchase Pathway, they do not need to re-register. Applications will be means-tested against the financial criteria which is outlined in the policy guidance. 

    Chris Kynicos, Sales, and Lettings Lead at Andium Homes, said: “In the first three tranches, we’ve helped numerous individuals, couples and families become homeowners for the first time. 

    “From their initial application through to the final purchase in court, the Andium Homes team have helped each applicant navigate their way through what can be a daunting task, and one that many may only do once in their lifetime. 

    “We’d encourage anyone looking for their first home to get in touch either in person at our offices on Don Street or call 500700 and our team will be happy to help.” 

    Islanders wishing to join the Assisted Purchase Pathway, or those wanting to update their details, can do so via the Andium website: First Step (andiumhomes.je)​.​

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Bringing up baby! It’s Baby Week in Manchester this week – all you need to know 

    Source: City of Manchester

    It’s all about babies this week (16 – 21 June) in Manchester as parents, carers and tiny tots are invited to join in with a whole host of baby and toddler friendly activities across the city, designed to educate and entertain parents, carers, and little ones alike. 

    The now annual six-day programme is filled from start to finish with free activities – all designed to support a child’s development from birth and before, to two years old.

    The week kicks off today (Monday 16 June) with a packed programme of free fun-filled activities taking place all day long in Central Library and Manchester Art Gallery.

    Musical mums, dads and babies are in for a treat with everything from Baby DJing sessions, Shake Rattle and Roll workshops, and Dance Like a Mother workouts with awesome tunes, to have-a-go sessions playing musical instruments and singing with the Hallé Musical Stars.

    Mini-me fitness and fun sessions for toddlers and their grown-ups will also run throughout the day with Afro-fit workshops offering African dance-inspired exercise, and lots of fun physical activity sessions from the National Football Museum.

    The day will also see plenty of opportunities for toddlers and parents to get messy together with creative play sessions throughout the day at the art gallery, as well as story time sessions at the library – based on every toddler’s favourite book, The Hungry Caterpillar.

    Baby Massage and gentle stretch and flex Baby Yoga classes are also programmed at intervals during the day – showing carers how to enjoy moments of calm and connection with their babies amongst all the activity and noise they may experience day to day.

    There will also be plenty of practical advice on offer for parents and carers – from preventing common accidents in the home and first aid taster sessions, to Tiny Talk Baby Signing sessions to help teach even the youngest babies to begin to communicate long before they’re able to speak, helping parents and their babies to understand each other from the earliest of days together.

    The rest of the week sees many of the same events and more taking place across the city, in cultural venues, leisure centres, libraries, local Family Hubs, children’s centres, and also in the city’s parks – which will host free family fun days for all on Saturday 21 June.

    With family splash and swim sessions, pool parties, sensory play, and groovy dance classes, as well as walk and talk rambles round local areas and healthy child drop-ins with Health Visitors, there are plenty of free activities of all kinds for families to get involved in during the week. 

    Manchester’s annual Baby Week takes place at an important time for Manchester as the city journeys towards being recognised by UNICEF as a Child Friendly City – the best possible place for a child to grow up in, a place where children’s rights are understood and the voices of children and young people matter.

    Councillor Julie Reid, Executive Member for Early Years, Children and Young People, Manchester City Council, said:  “As any parent or carer will tell you, parenting or caring for a baby or toddler can be both the most joyous and the most challenging of experiences – and sometimes even both these things in the space of a minute!

    “Having people around you to share these experiences with and help you navigate the hard things whilst enjoying all the great stuff is really important.  And that’s where Manchester Baby Week comes in.

    “We want to make sure that Manchester is the very best place it can be for all our babies and children to grow up in. The week provides a brilliant platform for parents, carers and babies to meet each other, learn from each other, and really enjoy themselves as they explore what’s available for tiny tots and their grown-ups in the city.”

    Manchester Baby Week runs from Monday 16 to Saturday 21 June.

    Find out more information on all the activities happening across the city for Baby Week 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –