NewzIntel.com

Category: AM-NC

  • MIL-OSI Australia: 2025–26 ACT Budget: what’s in it for Central Canberra

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Griffith shops will receive upgrades.

    In brief

    • The 2025–26 ACT Budget includes investment in community facilities in the inner north, inner south and the city.
    • These include shop and footpath upgrades.
    • This article overviews some of the facilities receiving support.

    The 2025–26 ACT Budget will support improvements to community facilities across the inner north, inner south and city.

    The investment will deliver practical improvements in the areas residents use most.

    Shop and amenity improvements

    Griffith shops will receive upgrades.

    New toilet facilities will be installed at both Red Hill and Downer shops.

    Sport and recreation upgrades

    There will be female-friendly changeroom upgrades at playing fields in Griffith, Ainslie and Reid.

    These are part of ACT-wide investment in inclusive sports facilities.

    Upgrades to community infrastructure and public spaces

    Footpaths across the region will be improved and better connected. This is part of an ACT-wide program.

    Lighting upgrades, including on City Walk, will improve safety and visibility.

    There will be stormwater upgrades at Dickson Shops.

    The Budget will also invest in concept design masterplanning to renew the City Hill park.

    More local healthcare options

    The ACT Government is investing in planning and feasibility work for the new Inner South Health Centre in Griffith.

    The facility will help meet the growing health needs of Inner South residents.

    Its delivery is part of ACT-wide investment in local community health.

    Read more like this:

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    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: IDF says it has killed over 20 Iranian commanders

    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

    JERUSALEM, June 14 (Xinhua) — More than 20 senior Iranian military commanders have been killed since the start of Israel’s operation against Iran on Friday, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said in a statement on Saturday.

    As noted in the statement, during the first strike within the operation, Israeli fighter jets, guided by intelligence data, eliminated the deputy chief of intelligence of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Iran (AF) Gholamreza Mehrabi and the chief of the General Staff of the AF Mohammad Bagheri.

    “G. Mehrabi played a key role in assessing intelligence, operational planning and preparing military operations against Israel,” the IDF said in a statement.

    According to the IDF, Bagheri controlled most of Iran’s long-range surface-to-surface missiles and cruise missiles, which are Iran’s main offensive weapons against Israel.

    Bagheri also oversaw Iran’s firepower systems and played an active role in decisions to attack Israel in April and October 2024, the statement said.

    The chief of the General Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces was killed along with the commander of the Aerospace Forces of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC-AFS) Amir Ali Hajizadeh and several other high-ranking commanders in an underground headquarters in Tehran. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Death toll from floods in South Africa’s Eastern Cape rises to 86

    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

    CAPE TOWN, June 14 (Xinhua) — The death toll from devastating floods in South Africa’s Eastern Cape province has risen to 86, Police Minister Senzo Mchunu said on Saturday.

    He gave the latest figures to police and rescue workers involved in rescue operations in Umtata, the town worst hit by the disaster.

    “Unfortunately, of course, we know that many people have died and it is mentioned that the total number of victims in the province has reached 86 people. This is a great tragedy and we are all deeply saddened by what has happened,” said S. Mchunu.

    Severe weather, including heavy rain and snowfall, has wreaked havoc in parts of the Eastern Cape this week, resulting in significant loss of life and widespread damage to infrastructure.

    The floods, which began on Monday, also destroyed homes, government offices, roads, hospitals and schools, forcing hundreds of people to flee their homes.

    South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, who visited the province on Friday, pledged that the government would continue to provide aid to affected communities. He also proposed declaring a national day of remembrance for those killed in the disaster. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: New round of US-Iran nuclear deal talks scheduled for June 15 ‘not happening’ – Omani foreign minister

    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

    MUSCAT, June 14 (Xinhua) — The sixth round of U.S.-Iran nuclear deal talks scheduled for Sunday, June 15, “will not take place,” Omani Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi said on Saturday.

    In his post on social media X, Badr al-Busaidi reiterated that diplomacy and dialogue remain the only way to achieve lasting peace.

    The announcement came amid heightened tensions following Israel’s major strikes on Iranian military and nuclear sites, raising fears of a wider regional escalation.

    Israel launched airstrikes on the Iranian capital Tehran and other cities early Friday, aiming to damage the Islamic republic’s nuclear infrastructure, ballistic missile production and military capabilities.

    In response, Iran launched a salvo of ballistic missiles at military targets in Israel that evening.

    In a telephone conversation with European Union diplomacy chief Kaya Kallas on Saturday, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stressed that further indirect talks between his country and the US were pointless amid Israel’s “continued brutality.”

    Commenting on Iran’s decision to participate in the sixth round of talks with the American side, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei noted: “In the current circumstances, our key focus is on countering the enemy’s aggression.”

    Since April this year, Iranian and US delegations have held five rounds of indirect talks with Oman as the mediator on Tehran’s nuclear program and the lifting of US sanctions. Three were held in the Omani capital Muscat and two in Rome. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Fire at Scott Street, Perth

    Source: Scotland – City of Perth

    “I would like to send sincere condolences to the family and friends of the man who has tragically lost his life in this incident. My thoughts are also with all the other people who have been affected by this very serious fire. 

    “I wish to praise the significant immediate response from all the First Responders and especially our brave firefighters who hurried towards this major fire and put their lives at risk to rescue occupants from the building and tackle the blaze. National resources have been deployed including a dedicated height appliance which has been central to our brave firefighters’ efforts.  

    “Following the evacuation of all flats in the affected building and neighbouring properties in the early hours of Saturday, a rest centre was set up at the Salutation Hotel. Staff from our Housing Service, Perth and Kinross Health and Social Care Partnership and our social work teams have been in attendance at the hotel since the incident to give any support and practical help that we can. 

    “Importantly, we are working to make sure that everyone who has been displaced has suitable alternative accommodation in place. People have also been given food, hot drinks, clothes, replacement medication, nappies, baby milk, pay-as-you-go phones, toiletries, toys and help with their pets. 

    “A large-scale Red Cross team also attended this afternoon to provide further support for anyone that needed it, backing up the Council and HSCP effort through the night and day. 

    “I would like to thank everyone who has helped in the effort to support the householders, including our staff, volunteers and staff at the Salutation Hotel, and we will continue to do all we can to support people affected by the fire. What has been heartening to see at this sad time was the immediate practical support donated by local businesses and charities, from clothing to food and toiletries, and even a brand-new pram for one of the youngest children affected by this incident. 

    “Finally, I would also like to thank the people of Perth and local businesses for their patience and understanding as some unavoidable disruption continues in the city centre.”  

    Following the fire at Scott Street, Perth city centre roads will continue to be affected on Sunday 15th June.  

    Emergency services will remain on scene, and Scott Street and South Street will stay closed to traffic and pedestrians. 

    Detours and signage have been put in place around Perth city centre to provide guidance for drivers. Motorists and pedestrians should continue to avoid the area if possible.  

    Perth and Kinross Council will also continue to provide a range of support for people affected by the fire. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick Releases Statement on the Tragic Shooting in Minnesota

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-Florida 20th district))

     
    POMPANO BEACH, FL — Today, Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL) issued the following statement on the tragic shootings of Minnesota lawmakers and their families. 
     
    “I am devastated by the calculated, senseless violence that stole the lives of a Minnesota state representative and her husband and wounded a state senator and his wife. This attack on public servants—and on the sanctity of their own homes—strikes at the very heart of our democracy. 
     
    “Words cannot capture the grief their loved ones, constituents, and the entire state of Minnesota are enduring. As lawmakers, we devote our lives to safeguarding our communities—no one should face gunfire for answering that call to serve. 
     
    “Those responsible must be brought to justice. We must stand united against hatred, intimidation, and politically motivated violence. My prayers are with the victims, their families, and all Minnesotans as they recover and navigate through this unimaginable tragedy.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Marshall: God Bless the United States Army, and God Bless President Trump

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall

    Senator Marshall Joins Fox and Friends to Discuss the Celebrations for the 250th Birthday of the United States Army
    Washington – On Saturday morning, live from the site of the U.S Army’s 250th Birthday Parade, U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas) joined Joey Jones on Fox and Friends to discuss the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel, the importance of celebrating the Army’s rich history of service, and his family ties to the Army.

    Click HERE or on the image above to watch Senator Marshall’s full interview.
    Highlights from the interview include:
    On the current state of the Israel and Iran conflict:
    “Israel is our greatest ally in the Middle East – we need to stand beside them. At the same time, I want all the listeners to understand that the Iranian regime was just a week away from having nuclear warheads. President Trump gave them a 60-day warning. On day 61, Israel took things into their own hands. We pray for peace, we pray for the Iranian people, but we cannot tolerate a terrorist group having a nuclear warhead.”
    On what should happen next for the United States regarding the conflict:
    “Being from Kansas, I’m a big Eisenhower fan, and President Eisenhower said, “I hate war as only a soldier who’s lived it can, with all its brutality and futility.” Joey, you’ve seen what that war is like as well. I think when you’ve served, you hate war more than anybody else. I want to project peace through strength, that was another President Eisenhower saying as well, so let’s project peace through strength. Pray for peace every day, and I’m just so grateful for all the military people willing to fight for our freedoms to keep the peace, but make us safe as well. And a big shout-out to all those soldiers in harm’s way right now in the Middle East.”
    On the planned counterprotests around the country for June 14:
    “Certainly, their obsession has become psychosis. I would just come and invite some of the people to meet some of the people that I had the privilege of giving a Capitol tour to last night. Soldiers from the Big Red One, the First Infantry Division – this division had 12,000 people who made the ultimate sacrifice, 12,000 people from one division. 1.3 million people from the army have made the ultimate sacrifice, another 1.5 million people injured in war, so just come and tell them thanks for that right to get out here and protest. God bless all of them, God bless President Trump. Let’s celebrate the Army’s birthday today.”
    On the penalties for those who burn American flags:
    “I’m all for it. Unfortunately, I grew up during the Vietnam era, and that’s when the flag burning started. Again, my dad served, my brother served, someone from every generation of my family since the Civil War, and to see them burn the flag, it’s just a kick in the gut to all of us who served.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla Leads Entire Senate Democratic Caucus in Demanding Trump Remove Military Forces From Los Angeles

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

    Padilla Leads Entire Senate Democratic Caucus in Demanding Trump Remove Military Forces From Los Angeles

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) led the entire Senate Democratic Caucus in demanding that President Trump immediately withdraw all military forces from Los Angeles and cease all threats to deploy the National Guard or active-duty servicemembers to American cities.

    The letter comes after Trump’s unprecedented move to federalize and deploy the California National Guard without the consent of the California Governor and mobilize U.S. Marine Corps elements, deploying approximately 4,000 National Guard troops and 700 active-duty Marines to Los Angeles amid unrest created by the President’s indiscriminate and intentionally inflammatory immigration enforcement raids across the region. The first 200 Marines arrived at the Los Angeles Federal Building yesterday, marking the first time in over 30 years that the Marines have been deployed in the United States.

    Trump deployed these military personnel without the request or support of Governor Newsom, manufacturing a crisis and repeatedly escalating the conflict in order to create a spectacle. The federalizing of California’s National Guard marked the first time the Guard had been deployed without a Governor’s consent since 1965.

    “We write to express deep concern over your decision to deploy the National Guard and United States Marine Corps to Los Angeles without consultation or coordination with the Governor and local leaders,” wrote Padilla and the entire Democratic Senate Caucus. “This unilateral action represents an alarming abuse of executive authority, continues to inflame the situation on the ground, and undermines the constitutional balance of power between the federal government and the states. We urge you to immediately withdraw all military personnel that have been deployed to Los Angeles unless their presence is explicitly requested by the Governor and local leaders.”

    The Senators slammed the deployment of military personnel as an abuse of power that undermines state and local leadership, interferes with critical law enforcement operations, and wastes military resources and taxpayer dollars. They also expressed concern for the dangerous precedent Trump’s misguided deployment of military forces could set for mobilizing military personnel to other cities across the country.

    “For the federal government to deploy military forces into American cities without consulting the Governor and local leaders is a dangerous misuse of federal power that has actively disrupted local law enforcement efforts to maintain peace and order,” continued the Senators. “Deploying military personnel should always be a last resort – not a first step – and should only occur when local law enforcement makes a specific request for such federal resources. The decision to use military personnel to create a spectacle has escalated tensions on the ground and created confusion among local law enforcement. Significantly, it also pulls military assets away from other critical missions and is a waste of taxpayer dollars.”

    “We urge you to immediately withdraw all military personnel that have been deployed to Los Angeles in recent days and to cease any further threats of deploying National Guard or active-duty military personnel into American cities absent a request from the Governor,” concluded the Senators. “Respect for our Constitution and for our civilian law enforcement demands nothing less.”

    The Trump Administration has consistently utilized excessive force and aggressive tactics in its immigration enforcement operations in Los Angeles and across the country. This pattern of unnecessary violence was evident on Thursday when Senator Padilla was forcibly removed from Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem’s press conference, thrown to the ground and handcuffed after simply trying to ask a question.

    The legality of Trump’s federalizing of California’s National Guard without the Governor’s consent is currently being disputed in federal court. The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals recently issued a stay to pause a lower court’s ruling, which had returned command of the California National Guard to Governor Newsom.

    The district court ruled that the President did not follow the statutorily mandated procedure necessary to deploy the National Guard and ordered him to return control of the Guard to California. The Court ruled that Trump violated the 10th Amendment and 10 USC 12406, the provision that authorizes the President to federalize the Guard in the event of insurrection or rebellion. The court held that California was also likely to prevail on the merits of its suit — there was no rebellion or insurrection, and local, county, and state law enforcement were fully capable of enforcing the law.

    “At this early stage of the proceedings, the Court must determine whether the President followed the congressionally mandated procedure for his actions. He did not. His actions were illegal—both exceeding the scope of his statutory authority and violating the Tenth Amendment to the United States Constitution. He must therefore return control of the California National Guard to the Governor of the State of California forthwith,” wrote the court.

    “We’re talking about the president exercising his authority, and the president is, of course, limited to his authority,” the court continued. “That’s the difference between a constitutional government and King George. It’s not that a leader can simply say something, and it becomes it.”

    In addition to Senator Padilla, the letter to President Trump was signed by the entire Senate Democratic Caucus, including Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Andy Kim (D-N.J.), Angus King (I-Maine), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.).

    Full text of the letter is available here and below:

    Dear President Trump,

    We write to express deep concern over your decision to deploy the National Guard and United States Marine Corps to Los Angeles without consultation or coordination with the Governor and local leaders. This unilateral action represents an alarming abuse of executive authority, continues to inflame the situation on the ground, and undermines the constitutional balance of power between the federal government and the states. We urge you to immediately withdraw all military personnel that have been deployed to Los Angeles unless their presence is explicitly requested by the Governor and local leaders.

    For the federal government to deploy military forces into American cities without consulting the Governor and local leaders is a dangerous misuse of federal power that has actively disrupted local law enforcement efforts to maintain peace and order. Deploying military personnel should always be a last resort – not a first step – and should only occur when local law enforcement makes a specific request for such federal resources. The decision to use military personnel to create a spectacle has escalated tensions on the ground and created confusion among local law enforcement. Significantly, it also pulls military assets away from other critical missions and is a waste of taxpayer dollars.

    We are particularly concerned by the precedent that this ill-conceived deployment of military personnel to Los Angeles sets for other cities and states. Governors are the Commanders in Chief of their National Guards when operating within state borders. As Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem said last year when serving as Governor of South Dakota, “If Joe Biden federalizes the National Guard, that would be a direct attack on states’ rights.”

    We urge you to immediately withdraw all military personnel that have been deployed to Los Angeles in recent days and to cease any further threats of deploying National Guard or active-duty military personnel into American cities absent a request from the Governor. Respect for our Constitution and for our civilian law enforcement demands nothing less.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NGA Issues Statement on Political Shootings in Minnesota

    Source: US State of Colorado

    Washington, DC – NGA Chair Colorado Governor Jared Polis and Vice Chair Oklahoma Governor Kervin Stitt issued the following statement condemning the political shootings in Minnesota: 

    “We are deeply saddened by the targeted political shootings that took place in Minnesota. Our hearts go out to the families of the victims, and the people of Minnesota. 

    “As Chair and Vice Chair of the National Governors Association, we condemn political violence in all forms. These attacks are not just assaults on individuals, they are attacks our communities, and the very foundation of our democracy. “

    “Public servants should never fear for their lives for serving our communities.” 

    “We stand united in urging federal, state, and local officials to swiftly investigate and bring those responsible to justice. We also call on all Americans to reject political hatred and violence, and to recommit to the values of civility, respect, and peaceful democratic discourse. 

    “Now more than ever, we must come together as one nation to ensure that our public square remains a place of debate, not danger.” 

    ### 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Hochul Marches in the Buffalo Juneteenth Parade

    Source: US State of New York

    arlier today, Governor Kathy Hochul participated in the 2025 Buffalo Juneteenth Parade.

    B-ROLL of the Governor greeting parade goers is available to stream on YouTube here and TV quality video is available here (h.264, mp4).

    VIDEO: The event is available to stream on YouTube here and TV quality video is available here (h.264, mp4).

    AUDIO: The Governor’s remarks are available in audio form here.

    PHOTOS: The Governor’s Flickr page will post photos of the event here.

    A rush transcript of the Governor’s remarks is available below:

    Happy Juneteenth everyone. So great to be back in my wonderful hometown of Buffalo, New York. Let’s give it up for Buffalo.

    For 160 years, we’ve been acknowledging the liberation from enslaved peoples who had to wait two more years than the rest of the nation for their freedom from President Lincoln after the Emancipation Proclamation. But I ask you here today, what does freedom look like in this country in 2025, all these years later?

    Are people still free to live where they want and get the best education for their kids and get the jobs they want? No, there are still institutional barriers to that freedom, and that’s why we stand up against an oppressive government in Washington, and all across our country people are having No Kings parades and events and celebrations.

    Today, I’m proud to be here in Buffalo with the real king and queen of our parade. Please stand up. You honor them and no other kings. Frank Merriweather is our Grand Marshall. Let’s give a round of applause to Frank Merriweather, our great Grand Marshall. All the way from New York City, we have the one and only great Attorney General Tish James. Our mayor, Chris Scanlon is here. Let’s give it up for the Mayor. And still doing the people’s work in Albany, but came here for this special event, the Majority Leader of the New York State Assembly, Crystal Peoples-Stokes for an amazing job. Give it up for our Senator, Sean Ryan, has joined us. Senator April Baskin is here. Reverend Dennis Mull, our pastor.

    Listen, my friends, today, we celebrate, but we’ll not lose in our hearts and our minds — our 10 brothers and sisters, we lost just three horrible years ago. I remember marching this parade just a few weeks after that blood bath that captivated the world, and they saw what happened when we saw racism and hatred come to a full force right here in our Tops. But just a few weeks later, we stood together, didn’t we?

    We stood together and we were strong, and we stood up with this sense of resilience that it defined the people of our country and this nation and this city for 160 years of liberation, and that resilience — that defiant spirit goes on when we are under attack today. So onward and upward, we fight in the names of the ancestors.

    Thank you, everyone.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Central China’s Changsha Holds Cultural and Natural Heritage Day Events

    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

    CHANGSHA, June 14 (Xinhua) — A series of major citywide events were held in Changsha, central China’s Hunan Province, on Saturday to celebrate China’s Cultural and Natural Heritage Day this year.

    During the opening ceremony, a selection of exemplary practices in cultural heritage preservation for 2024 was presented and outstanding projects for popularizing cultural heritage in new media in 2025 were announced.

    The celebrations, which this year focused on the revival of cultural heritage, also included a forum on scientific and technological innovations in the field of cultural heritage conservation and an online exhibition of fine art heritage.

    Along with the festive program in Changsha, more than 7,000 online and offline events have been organized across the country by local cultural heritage departments and institutions under the initiative of the National Cultural Heritage Administration of China. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: International peacekeeping exercises “In Search of Khaan-2025” have begun in Mongolia

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    ULAN BATOR, June 14 (Xinhua) — The international peacekeeping exercise “Searching for Khaan-2025” kicked off in Mongolia on Saturday at the training center of the Mongolian Armed Forces, 60 km from the capital Ulan Bator.

    At the opening ceremony, Deputy Chairman of the State Great Khural (parliament) of Mongolia Bukhchuluuny Purevdorj noted that the exercises serve as an important bridge for deepening international cooperation in peacekeeping operations and strengthening mutual trust and understanding between countries.

    “The scale, inclusiveness, content and programme of these multinational peacekeeping exercises continue to expand year on year, reflecting a commitment to tangible actions that contribute to global peace and security,” he added.

    A total of 1,200 peacekeepers from 24 countries, including Mongolia, China, Australia, Canada, Egypt, France, Germany, India, Japan and the United States, are taking part in 22 peacekeeping exercises organized by the Mongolian Armed Forces.

    The exercise, which will last until June 28, will cover command and staff and field activities.

    The exercises “In Search of Khaan” have been conducted since 2003 by the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Mongolia jointly with the US Pacific Fleet Command and the UN Peace Support Fund. Since 2006, the peacekeeping maneuvers have evolved into large-scale international peacekeeping exercises. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Deputy Minister Kenny Morolong hosts the U20 Mayors at the Union Buildings

    Source: Republic of South Africa (video statements)

    Deputy Minister Kenny Morolong hosts the U20 Mayors at the Union Buildings

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NrLvea2W01A

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – EYE2025 (European Youth Event): 9,000 young people engaged in EU democracy

    Source: European Parliament 3

    Around 9,000 young people with 160 different nationalities met in the European Parliament in Strasbourg to discuss the future of Europe.

    On Friday 13 June and Saturday 14 June, EYE2025 gathered 9,000 16 to 30-year-olds, who engaged in 450 in-person activities – panels, interactive workshops, quizzes, tours, networking opportunities, and artistic performances. Around 1,000 people are estimated to have followed the sessions webstreamed from the hemicycle.

    The activities were co-created with other EU institutions, international organisations, civil society, youth organisations and the participants themselves. Part of the programme took place outdoors in the EYE Village, whose activities were coordinated by the European Youth Forum.

    Around 40 MEPs engaged with participants in activities to expand their understanding of the European Union and of the work of decision-makers.

    EYE2025 (European Youth Event) was opened by Parliament Vice-president Sabine Verheyen (EPP, DE). Vice-president Nicolae Ştefănuță (Greens/EFA, RO) took part in a session dedicated to the next long-term budget as Vice-president Pina Picierno (S&D, IT) closed the event.

    Quotes

    “The European Parliament deeply believes in the incredible strength, creativity, and passion that young people bring to our society. Engaging with youth is not just important, it is essential for the future and legitimacy of our European democracy. When we listen to young voices, we do not just hear ideas – we feel energy, we see innovation, and we embrace the diversity that makes Europe so rich”, said Vice-president Pina Picierno during the closing ceremony.

    Vice-president Sabine Verheyen added: “We need to guarantee young people’s views are reflected in EU policy-making and to ensure that EU policies are future-proof. Since the end of the European Year of Youth in 2022, the EYE team has been working on the possibility of implementing a “Youth Check” in the European Parliament committees. A number of young people would be selected to attend parliamentary committee meetings and provide input on legislative files. Other European institutions have also been working on this novel concept, which in the case of the European Parliament, will help ensure the voices of young citizens are effectively integrated into the Parliament’s work”.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Klobuchar Statement on Fatal Shooting in Minnesota

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Minnesota Amy Klobuchar
    MINNEAPOLIS – U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) released the following statement:
    “John and I are devastated and heartbroken by the horrific murders of Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, as well as the horrific attack on Minnesota State Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette.
    Melissa Hortman was a good friend and we started in politics at the same time and I still remember the two of us going door to door in her first legislative campaign. She was a true public servant to the core, dedicating her life to serving Minnesotans with integrity and compassion. As Speaker of the Minnesota House of Representatives, she led efforts to protect women’s rights, invest in clean energy, and secure free school lunch for kids. She was beloved by her colleagues. 
    I want to thank the brave law enforcement officers who are working in real time to protect Minnesotans and ensure there is accountability for these horrific crimes.
    Let me be absolutely clear: this was an act of targeted political violence, and it was an attack on everything we stand for as a democracy. We must all condemn it. And we must refuse to be a country where anyone is silenced by threats or violence. 
    To Melissa’s and Mark’s family, Melissa’s colleagues in the Minnesota Legislature, and everyone mourning across our state: I grieve with you. And I will honor their legacy not just in words, but through action — by protecting our democracy, by standing up to hate, and by continuing the work they so passionately believed in.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement on Targeted Shooting of DFL Legislators

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn)

    SAINT PAUL, Minn. — Congresswoman Betty McCollum issued the following statement on Saturday morning: 

    “I am beyond devastated by the premeditated murder of Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark, and the attempted murder of Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette. This is a shocking and heinous act of targeted political violence against elected officials. It was clearly intended to instill fear in our communities. 

    “As Dean of the Congressional Delegation, I have been in touch with my colleagues, who share my profound shock and deep sadness over this tragedy.

    “I am thankful to all Minnesota law enforcement personnel, especially those who are responding to the situation, which is still active. Minnesotans of all political backgrounds must unite to condemn this and all politically motivated acts of violence. In a democracy, we do not respond to acts of public policy with acts of violence motivated by extremism.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Welch Statement on Escalation of Conflict in the Middle East 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) today released the following statement in response to the escalation of armed conflict in the Middle East: 
    “Like many around the world, I am alarmed by the latest escalation of armed conflict in the Middle East. Israel’s attack on Iran, and the subsequent counterattacks against Israel by the Iranian regime, risk destroying the nuclear negotiations led by the Trump Administration which offer the best hope for a lasting solution to Iran’s nuclear program. This escalation could ignite a regional war, which would be catastrophic for the people of the Middle East, as well as the United States.   
    “We must continue to lead with diplomacy. We must avoid getting dragged into this conflict and work across nations to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. President Trump said he wanted to end wars in the Middle East. I urge him to stand up for the safety of American troops and American interests and use his influence as president to stop this from escalating further.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: RAF King’s Birthday Honours 2025Kings’ Birthday Honours List 2025 – Military Division.13 Jun 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Royal Air Force

    King’s Birthday Honours List 2025 – Military Division

    PROMOTIONS IN AND APPOINTMENTS TO THE MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MOST HONOURABLE ORDER OF THE BATH

    As Knight Commander  

    Air Marshal J.J. Stringer CBE 

    As Companion (CB)  

    Air Vice-Marshal M.W.J Chappell  

    Air Vice-Marshal A.P.T. Smith 

    PROMOTIONS IN AND APPOINTMENTS TO THE MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MOST EXCELLENT ORDER OF THE BRITISH EMPIRE

    As Commanders (CBE) 

    Air Commodore I.J. Sharrocks OBE 

    Group Captain A. Burton 

    As Officers (OBE)

    Group Captain A.P. Baron 

    Group Captain P. Baroni 

    Group Captain R.L. Dixon  

    Wing Commander G.A. Lonsdale 

    Wing Commander T.C. Page 

    Wing Commander A.N. Pandya 

    As Members (MBE)

    Acting Wing Commander D.C. McCrae 

    Squadron Leader C.B.M. Emmerson 

    Squadron Leader J.R. Rushton 

    Squadron Leader T.A. Smith 

    Squadron Leader M.D. Sugden 

    Squadron Leader D.J. Taudevin 

    Squadron Leader J.K. Wilyman 

    Flight Lieutenant R.K. Mehta 

    Flight Lieutenant M.W. Norman 

    Captain R.M. St J. Sheehan (British Army) 

    Warrant Officer C. Hamilton 

    Staff Sergeant E. Oppong (British Army) 

    Sergeant G.L. Jones 

    Corporal E-J. Bangura 

    King’s Volunteer Reserves Medal

    Sergeant D.J. Tyler 

    Associate Member of The Royal Red Cross 

    Flight Sergeant (now Acting Warrant Officer) S.L. Roberts 

    King’s Birthday Honours list 2025 – Civilian Division

    PROMOTIONS IN AND APPOINTMENTS TO THE CIVILIAN DIVISION OF THE MOST EXCELLENT ORDER OF THE BRITISH EMPIRE

    As Members (MBE) 

    Mr R.P. O’Connor  

    Reverend J.M. Pitkin 

    British Empire Medal  

    Mr J.R. McGlasson 

    MERITORIOUS SERVICE MEDAL

    Warrant Officer M.A. Coupland 

    Warrant Officer N. Dutton 

    Master Aircrew P.A. Goss 

    Master Aircrew R.A. Jones 

    Master Aircrew T.J.M. Millar 

    Warrant Officer M. Rees-Martin MBE 

    Warrant Officer D.K. Rose 

    Master Aircrew D.V. Russell 

    Master Aircrew S.F. Severn 

    Warrant Officer S.W. Thorpe 

    Flight Sergeant (now Acting Warrant Officer) O.R. Watkins 

    Flight Sergeant R.C. Atha 

    Flight Sergeant S.J. Dutton 

    Flight Sergeant D. Farrell 

    Flight Sergeant R.E. Mauchline 

    Flight Sergeant R.M. Pugh 

    Acting Flight Sergeant C.M. Irvine 

    CHIEF OF THE AIR STAFF COMMENDATIONS

    Wing Commander K.E. Ingram MBE 

    Squadron Leader (now Wing Commander) A.H. Stewart 

    Squadron Leader N.J.D. Bell 

    Flight Lieutenant A. Carter 

    Flight Lieutenant G. Feetham 

    Sergeant P.M. Taylor 

    Acting Sergeant N.T. Egan 

    Corporal G.P. Dutton 

    Corporal L.D. Evans 

    Corporal J.F. Scott 

    Acting Corporal D.J. Purves 

    Air Specialist Class 1 B. Dudgeon 

    Team Commendations 

    Air Finance Strategic Financial Planning Team 

    Department of Medicine, RAF R&S, RAF Cranwell 

    Protector Continuing Airworthiness Management Organisation, RAF Waddington 

    Tactical Operations Centre Light eXperimental (TOC-X) Delivery and Innovations Team 

    27 Squadron Engineering 

    DEPUTY CHIEF OF THE AIR STAFF & AIR AND SPACE COMMANDER COMMENDATIONS

    DEPUTY CHIEF OF THE AIR STAFF COMMENDATIONS

    Squadron Leader E.L. Brooks 

    Squadron Leader R.J. Kemplay 

    Flight Lieutenant M.J. Wade 

    Mrs N.J. Skelton 

    Team Commendations 

    Project NEXUS – DEIMOS Team 

    Qatar Air Programme Office 2024 

    Trial CHAINMAIL 2 Team 

    R&S Select Processing Team 

    Ground Combat and Security Profession Enlisted Aviator Career Management Team 

    ANY Desk Career Management 

    AIR AND SPACE COMMANDER COMMENDATIONS

    Wing Commander T.P. Nassif 

    Squadron Leader B.P. Burton 

    Squadron Leader P.M. Dunkley 

    Squadron Leader S.E. Evans 

    Major M.G. Fairchild (US Space Force) 

    Squadron Leader E.E. Leonard 

    Squadron Leader C.J. Marsh 

    Squadron Leader L.M. Ryder 

    Squadron Leader D.A. Yule 

    Flight Lieutenant (now Acting Squadron Leader) B.L. Dzekashu 

    Lieutenant M.P. Anelli (Royal Navy) 

    Warrant Officer G. Pringle 

    Chief Petty Officer T.A. Fenwick (Royal Navy) 

    Flight Sergeant D.J. Gillam 

    Flight Sergeant G.L. Hobbs 

    Acting Flight Sergeant (now Chief Technician) J.W. Kelly 

    Sergeant (now Staff Sergeant) R. Limbu (British Army) 

    Sergeant T.A. Marley 

    Air Specialist Class 1 (now Acting Corporal) J.P.J. Eldridge 

    Air Specialist Class 1 T.D. Magill 

    Mr A.P. Bowell 

    Mrs C. Sherman 

    Team Commendations 

    RAF Pay Team, London Main Building 

    11 Group A5 

    Engineering Profession Advisor Team 

    RAF Medical Board 

    Engineering Team, Number II (Army Cooperation) Squadron, RAF Lossiemouth 

    Air Battlespace Training Centre, RAF Waddington  

    45 Squadron Mission Aircrew ISR Acoustics Team 

    RAF Coningsby Duty Fire Crew 

    Spitfire Crash Incident Officers 

    RAF Cranwell ACE Team 

    RAF Odiham Project PALES Team 

    AIR OFFICERS COMMANDING COMMENDATIONS

    AIR OFFICER COMMANDING NO. 1 GROUP COMMENDATIONS

    Lieutenant Commander P. Armstrong (Royal Navy) 

    Lieutenant Commander N.E. Baker (Royal Navy) 

    Squadron Leader D.C.D. Berris 

    Squadron Leader K.M. Hickinbotham 

    Squadron Leader S.I. Roxburgh 

    Flight Lieutenant D.A. Breslin 

    Flight Lieutenant M.R. Crosby-Jones 

    Flight Lieutenant A.M. Dale 

    Flight Lieutenant K. Jamison 

    Flight Lieutenant L.O. Matthews 

    Flight Lieutenant W.L.D. Mountfield 

    Flight Lieutenant D. Scarr 

    Flight Lieutenant R. Wallace 

    Lieutenant W.R. Sankey (Royal Navy) 

    Acting Flight Lieutenant V. Logan 

    Warrant Officer C.P. Harker 

    Flight Sergeant D.T. Best 

    Flight Sergeant J.A. Bracewell 

    Chief Petty Officer G. Parker (Royal Navy) 

    Chief Technician W.A. Byrne 

    Sergeant N.J. Lindley 

    Acting Sergeant R.G. Archer 

    Acting Sergeant J.A. Grimmer 

    Air Specialist Class 1 (Technician) T.A. Bond 

    Air Specialist Class 1 (Technician) O-J. Whitehead 

    Mr L. Maple 

    Mr S. Williams 

    Team Commendations 

    Number 54 Squadron – Protector Training Flight 

    BBMF CAw Management 

    Number 56 Squadron E-7 Wedgetail Operator Subject Matter Expert Team 

    BAE Systems Civilian Qualified Flying Instructor 

    Joint Air Delivery Test & Evaluation Unit – Engineering Section, RAF Brize Norton 

    29 Squadron Typhoon Display Team, RAF Coningsby 

    Number 14 Squadron Shadow Qualified Flying Instructors, RAF Waddington 

    A Flight, ISR Enabling Squadron, 1ISR Wing, Royal Air Force Waddington 

    Number 99 Squadron C-17 ZZ173 Air Ground Engineers, RAF Brize Norton 

    Royal Air Force Falcons 2024 Parachute Display Team, RAF Brize Norton 

    AIR OFFICER COMMANDING NO. 2 GROUP COMMENDATIONS

    Squadron Leader S.J. Jackson 

    Squadron Leader D.C. Netherton 

    Squadron Leader R.D. Scothern 

    Flight Lieutenant D. Anderson 

    Flight Lieutenant P. Crutchlow 

    Flight Lieutenant L.J. Eagle 

    Flight Lieutenant B.R. Garwood 

    Flight Lieutenant A.J. Mawdsley 

    Acting Flight Lieutenant R. Howarth 

    Flying Officer P. Shingler 

    Chief Technician A.J. Hunt 

    Flight Sergeant E.L. Dye 

    Flight Sergeant M. Eastaugh 

    Flight Sergeant M.J. Ellson 

    Flight Sergeant J.H.R. McClymont 

    Flight Sergeant G. Teague 

    Flight Sergeant N.H. White 

    Sergeant S.B. Brandt 

    Sergeant D.J. Cooper 

    Sergeant A.C. Lockwood 

    Sergeant P.R. Stockley 

    Corporal M.T. Ferguson 

    Corporal T.M. Grainger 

    Corporal G.F.E. Melling 

    Corporal C.J. Mills 

    Corporal S.A. Palmer 

    Corporal G.J. Sutton 

    Corporal R.P. Worthington 

    Acting Corporal R.P. Swatman 

    Air Specialist Class 1 (Technician) J.G. Evans 

    Air Specialist Class 1 H.C. Rhind-Tutt 

    Mr I. Aitkenhead 

    Mr A. Barber 

    Mr D. Clarke 

    Mr A. Stewart 

    Team Commendations

    Crisis Response Team 

    RAF Police Support to Operation ROMAJI 

    Royal Air Force Benson Air Traffic Control Squadron 

    Tactical Communications Wing Project LETSRIG Team 

    Air Control Essentials Course Training Team 

    144 Signals Unit Deployable Air Defence Flight and 19 Squadron Portreath Detachment 

    RAF Regiment Apprenticeship Centre 

    Medical and Dental Servicing Section 

    Joint Aircraft Recovery and Transportation Squadron Operation LORIEN Recovery Team 

    A Life Saving Team at RAF Waddington 

    RAF Odiham Wildlife Control Unit 

    RAF Odiham Catering Flight 

    Royal Air Force Lossiemouth Mobility Support Section 

    Royal Air Force Coningsby Armament Engineering Flt 

    RAF Leeming Police and Security Flt 

    RAF Boulmer Beacon Community Centre 

    78 Squadron Flight Safety Team 

    Project KIMBINU GRIFFIN 

    RAF Marham Force Protection Training Flight 

    Polytunnel and Wellness Area Team (Whole Force Personnel and Families) 

    RAF Marham Physical Education Flight 

    HQ 2 Group Force Generation Team 

    1 AMW HQ Plans Team 

    AIR OFFICER COMMANDING NO. 11 GROUP COMMENDATIONS

    Squadron Leader J. Ives 

    Squadron Leader G. Ivison 

    Squadron Leader M.J. Pickford 

    Squadron Leader S. Wain 

    Flight Lieutenant E.D.M. Haylock 

    Flight Lieutenant B.A. Ter Haar 

    Colour Sergeant S.C. Hopkins (British Army) 

    Air Specialist Class 1 T. Ogden 

    Air Specialist Class 1 J. Smart 

    S. Fogden 

    Team Commendation

    11 Group A7 Operational Training Centre 

    AIR OFFICER COMMANDING NO. 22 GROUP COMMENDATIONS

    Acting Major C. Reid (British Army) 

    Acting Squadron Leader J.C. Blackie  

    Acting Squadron Leader R.D. Jones  

    Flight Lieutenant J. Orrell 

    Flight Lieutenant S.S. Toomer 

    Flight Lieutenant I.A. Torrance 

    Warrant Officer 2 K.A. Feldsmann (British Army) 

    Warrant Officer 2 D. Rai (British Army) 

    Flight Sergeant T.J. Elton  

    Staff Sergeant J.L. Willis (British Army) 

    Sergeant D.S. Wilkinson 

    Mrs S. Gwilliam 

    Team Commendations

    School of Army Aeronautical Engineering Aviation Academy 

    No 1 Radio School, Cyber Security Flight 

    Number 1 Radio School, Digital Systems and Applications Flight 

    Central Flying School (Helicopters) Squadron Training Team 

    Whittle Section, Trainee Support Squadron, No 1 School of Technical Training 

    Assurance and Governance Squadron, Learning and Development Wing 

    Defence College of Technical Training HQ Finance Team 

    Hawk Syllabus Development Team 

    Headquarters Defence College of Technical Training – TDA Plans Team 

    Essex Wing Warrant Officer’s Team, Royal Air Force Air Cadets  

    CHAPLAIN-IN-CHIEF (ROYAL AIR FORCE) COMMENDATIONS

    Reverend (Squadron Leader) N. Galloway MBE 

    Mr P. Morcombe 

    COMMANDER UK SPACE COMMAND COMMENDATION

    Captain C.M. Reeds (British Army) 

    Team Commendations  

    No.1 Space Operations Squadron Training Team 

    DIRECTOR CAPABILITY AND PROGRAMMES COMMENDATIONS

    C. Young 

    DIRECTOR SUPPORT COMMENDATIONS

    Flight Sergeant C.D. Andrews 

    Mr A. Collinson 

    K. Patel  

    DIRECTOR DIGITAL COMMENDATIONS

    Flight Lieutenant R.S. Hall 

    Flight Lieutenant A.C. Metcalfe 

    Flying Officer D. Huckstepp

    DIRECTOR RESERVES COMMENDATIONS

    Flight Sergeant C.G. Smith 

    Team Commendations 

    RAuxAF100 Standard Parade Delivery Team 

    501 Sqn Operation SILK PURSE Team 

    COMMANDER JOINT AVIATION COMMAND COMMENDATIONS

    Commander Joint Aviation Command Commendations    

    Flight Lieutenant C. Rudyk-Smith 

    Flight Lieutenant M.A. Stoodley 

    Flight Sergeant N.K-C. Bargery 

    Chief Technician S.A. Grant 

    Chief Technician C.J.M. Maisey 

    Chief Technician R.N. McCarthy 

    Sergeant D.J. Dickson 

    Sergeant K.S. Potts 

    Sergeant R.S. Worker 

    Acting Sergeant J.P. Jenkins 

    Corporal D.J. White 

    Team Commendations 

    Chinook CAMO Team 

    7 Sqn R1 Detachment 

    CAE Aircrew Training Service (Puma staff) 

    VICE CHIEF OF DEFENCE STAFF COMMENDATIONS

    Wing Commander H.M. Parr 

    Squadron Leader J.P.J. Casson 

    COMMANDER UNITED KINGDOM STRATEGIC COMMAND COMMENDATIONS

    Wing Commander D.E. Wilson 

    Squadron Leader (now Acting Wing Commander) S. Davies 

    Squadron Leader M. Bradley 

    Squadron Leader F.A. Merino 

    Squadron Leader L.G.J. Scott 

    Sergeant (now Acting Flight Sergeant) L.P. Buttery 

    Air Specialist Class 1 (now Acting Corporal) A.R. Harvey 

    DEPUTY COMMANDER UNITED KINGDOM STRATEGIC COMMAND COMMENDATIONS

    Squadron Leader M.J. Rankine 

    Squadron Leader A.F. Xavier 

    Flight Sergeant A. Maltman 

    COMMANDER FIELD ARMY AND COMMANDER STANDING JOINT COMMAND (UK) COMMENDATIONS AND COMMANDER ALLIED RAPID REACTION CORPS COMMENDATIONS

    COMMANDER FIELD ARMY COMMENDATION

    Flight Lieutenant D. Graham 

    COMMANDER STANDING JOINT COMMAND (UK) COMMENDATION

    Squadron Leader R.A. Lee 

    Warrant Officer C.L. Wheeler 

    COMMANDER ALLIED RAPID REACTION CORPS COMMENDATIONS

    Sergeant C.A. Brown 

    Royal Air Force Operational Honours List

    APPOINTMENT TO THE MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MOST EXCELLENT ORDER OF THE BRITISH EMPIRE

    As Officer (OBE)

    Group Captain H.M. Bishop  

    Distinguished Flying Cross  

    Flight Lieutenant J.A. Chadwick 

    Air Force Cross 

    Acting Squadron Leader (now Squadron Leader) J.M.G. Hawkins 

    Flight Lieutenant S.B. Watson 

    King’s Commendation for Bravery in the Air  

    Flight Lieutenant M.M.T. Howell 

    King’s Commendation for Valuable Service 

    Squadron Leader (now Wing Commander) I.D.E. Robinson 

    Squadron Leader G.R. McKay 

    Squadron Leader B.R.M. Tripp 

    Flight Sergeant J.P. Graham 

    CHIEF OF JOINT OPERATIONS, JOINT COMMANDER’S COMMENDATIONS

    Chief of joint Operations Commendation

    Squadron Leader D.G. Tipler 

    Joint Commanders Commendation  

    Wing Commander A.P. Machin 

    Lieutenant Colonel A.A.R. Townend (British Army) 

    Squadron Leader F.Y. Allery 

    Squadron Leader J. Marlowe 

    Squadron Leader E.M. Thomas 

    Flight Lieutenant B.F.J. Brook 

    Team Commendations 

    Crew of Custom46 XIII Sqn RAF 

    Op Underhill Atlas Team 

    Op Underhill Planning and Liaison Team 

    Royal Air Force Non-Operational Gallantry Award – Commendation  

    Air and Space Commander Commendation  

    Air Specialist Class 1 (Technician) J.D. Coombs-Hoar 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: King’s Birthday Flypast 202514 Jun 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Royal Air Force

    Flying high over Buckingham Palace, the Royal Air Force had the pleasure of parading a selection of RAF aircraft to celebrate the Official Birthday of His Majesty King Charles III. 

    At 13:00 twenty-nine aircraft took to the skies above the crowds on The Mall and over Buckingham Palace, watched over by Their Majesties’ The King and Queen, alongside other members of the Royal family.  

    The stunning formation was led by four Chinook helicopters from No 18 & 27 Squadrons of RAF Odiham, following the King’s Birthday Parade (Trooping the Colour). 

    The aircraft came from nine different RAF stations, many of whom flew in the VE80 celebrations in May this year. 

    It is an enormous privilege to be part of His Majesty The King’s Birthday celebrations, where the Flypast is an opportunity for the Royal Air Force to honour His Majesty The King, our Commander-in-Chief, on the occasion of his Official Birthday. 

    This year, the flypast will comprise twenty-nine aircraft, including the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, rotary wing assets from the Joint Aviation Command, training aircraft from No.22 Group and front-line aircraft from across No.1 Group representing the Air Mobility, Combat Air and ISTAR Forces; as always the flypast will conclude with the iconic Red Arrows.”

    Air Vice-Marshal Jackson,
    Air Officer Commanding 1 Gp

    The aircraft, whose main purpose is to secure our skies and protect our citizens at home and abroad have a broad range of uses. These include training, air transport, lift capabilities, air-to-air refuelling, maritime, humanitarian missions, and fast jet combat. 

    It is a great honour to be part of an event that will bolster our national pride, and to be part of something much greater than myself. My role will include coordinating with civil air traffic and assisting the safe passage of all the aircraft back to their bases.”

    Sergeant Mcglasson,
         ATC, 78 Sqn   

    A Lancaster from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, RAF Coningsby followed the Chinooks.  

    Wing Commander Andrew Watson, a Typhoon pilot and Officer Commanding 12 Squadron had the task of overseeing the whole flypast. The planning for the whole event has been meticulous over many months. The culmination is the spectacle that was seen by millions of people worldwide. 

    It is a huge personal honour being Mission Commander and coordinating such an impressive array of aircraft fit for His Majesty The King’s Birthday. I cannot be more impressed by the focus and professionalism of both air and ground crew in bringing this spectacle to life.”

    Wing Commander Watson,
    Mission Commander & OC 12 Sqn 

    Other aircraft in the formation included a Phenom, Typhoon, an F35 and a C17 Globemaster.  

    The flypast is also thought to be the first time anywhere in the world that a national aerobatic squadron has switched to both a Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) blend for propulsion and a renewable biofuel – known as Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO). This is a premium quality fuel, with a chemical structure almost identical to the regular diesel traditionally used by the aerobatic team for its vapour trails.

    In addition to reducing its carbon footprint, the move demonstrates the RAF’s commitment to new technology as well as becoming more energy secure and less reliant on fossil fuels.

    The event culminated in a spectacular show of red, white and blue from the pilots of the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, the Red Arrows. 

    It is a privilege to be a member of the Red Arrows. To me, the Red Arrows are an icon of the United Kingdom – so knowing that you had a key role to play in them bringing joy and excitement to thousands of people as they fly over the Mall is something I am incredibly proud of. 

    As head of all engineering and logistics on the team, I am even more proud to lead the amazing and diverse team of over one hundred ‘Blues’ that not only make major flypasts happen, but work tirelessly for twelve months a year, every year, to deliver a colourful and dynamic aerobatic show. 

    Working with the smoke generation system is the most unique part of the job. The vibrant vapour that we generate is what sets the team apart and so to be the first team in the world to move to a fully sustainable option is really exciting.”

    Squadron Leader King
    Snr Engineering Officer, RAF Aerobatic Team

    The aircraft of the Armed Forces have a long and proud history of taking part in this occasion, with the first King’s Birthday Flypast taking place in 1913 and most recently formed part of Their Majesties’ Coronation in 2023 and Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee in 2022. 

    The flypast has much poignancy for one of the Chinook pilots, Master Aircrew (MACr) Ruffles. The King’s Birthday Flypast was one of MACr Ruffles’ last flights as he leaves the RAF after forty years’ service and nine thousand hours flying with helicopters.

    Being part of the King’s Birthday Flypast after forty years of service especially on the 80th anniversary of VE Day is an honour I’ll carry with me for many years to come. It’s been a test of resilience, teamwork and dedication. But through it all, the bond with my fellow crew members, the sense of purpose and the pride in serving at such a high level has made every moment worthwhile.”

    Master Aircrew Ruffles
    27 Squadron, Chinooks

    The King’s Birthday Flypast concluded Trooping the Colour which took place on Horse Guards Parade, a ceremony dating back to the reign of King Charles II, becoming an annual event in 1760. Over 1,400 officers and soldiers form the parade, together with two hundred horses; over four hundred musicians from ten bands and Corps of Drums marched and played in unison. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: LEADER JEFFRIES STATEMENT ON SHOOTINGS IN MINNESOTA

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Hakeem Jeffries (8th District of New York)

    Know Your Immigration Rights

    If you or a loved one encounter immigration enforcement officials, it is essential that you know your rights and have prepared your household for all possible outcomes.

    Ask for a warrant: The Fourth Amendment of the Constitution protects you from unreasonable search and seizure. You do not have to open your door until you see a valid warrant to enter your home or search your belongings.

    Your right to remain silent: The Fifth Amendment protects your right to remain silent and not incriminate yourself. You are not required to share any personal information such as your place of birth, immigration status or criminal history.

    Always consult an attorney: You have a right to speak with an attorney. You do not have to sign anything or hand officials any documents without speaking to an attorney. Try to identify and consult one in advance.

    The New York City Office of Civil Justice and the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs (MOIA) support a variety of free immigration legal services through local nonprofit legal organizations. To access these resources, dial 311 and say “Action NYC,” call the MOIA Immigration Legal Support Hotline at 800-354-0365 Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. or visit MOIA’s website.

    Learn more here: KNOW YOUR IMMIGRATION RIGHTS  – Congressman Hakeem Jeffries

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Larsen Releases Statement on Today’s Peaceful Demonstrations Against the Trump Administration

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Rick Larsen (2nd Congressional District Washington)

    Today Representative Rick Larsen released the following statement to those demonstrating peacefully against the Trump administration:

    “Today, people all across Northwest Washington state are gathering to demonstrate peacefully against the excesses and corruption of the Trump administration.

    “Excesses like the President spending more than 20 days golfing just so far this year, costing taxpayers millions in security and travel expenses. Corruption like the President accepting a $400 million luxury jet as a gift from a foreign country.

    “And, most recently, the President has hijacked a parade to celebrate the Army’s 250th birthday and turned it into a self-indulgent boondoggle. The Army estimates that the parade will cost $45 million.

    “At the same time, Republicans in Congress are trying to pass huge funding cuts to programs that help families afford groceries. The Republican Rip-Off budget puts 14,000 people in Northwest Washington state at risk of losing food assistance.

    “The food assistance program costs $6 per day per person. I did the math so you don’t have too – for the cost of the parade, Trump and Republicans could help more than 20,000 people access affordable groceries every day for a year.

    “This Administration is also trying to cut 80,000 jobs at the Department of Veteran Affairs. If Republicans really cared about celebrating the Army, then they wouldn’t be attacking the system that millions of veterans rely on for health care and other essential services.

    “I’m not able to attend the demonstrations of patriotism in Northwest Washington state today, but I want to thank every person who is showing up to make their voice heard. By rallying, by speaking up, by advocating for your communities, you are holding this administration accountable.

    “I am standing with you, and I will continue alongside all of you to fight the excesses and corruption of this administration.”

    Watch Rep. Larsen’s full statement here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Polis Statement on Assassination of Minnesota Elected Official & Husband, and Attempt on Life of Another Elected Official & Family

    Source: US State of Colorado

    DENVER – Colorado Governor Jared Polis released the following statement on the killing of Minnesota State Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark, and the attempted assassination attempt on the lives of Minnesota State Senator John Hoffman and his wife in what appears to be a politically motivated attacks this morning. 

    “Colorado stands with Minnesota, and our deepest sympathies go out to those impacted by what appears to be politically motivated attacks. Make no mistake, politically motivated violence, assassinations, and attempts on the lives of elected officials are not the America we know, hold dear, and love. We must continue to reject the divisive politics and rhetoric that have become too prevalent in our country. Those involved in this heinous crime should never see the light of day again, be fully prosecuted under the law, and Colorado is ready to offer any assistance to our friends in Minnesota.” 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: South Korean President orders prevention and punishment of attempts to distribute anti-DPRK propaganda leaflets

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    SEOUL, June 14 (Xinhua) — President of the Republic of Korea (ROK) Lee Jae-myung has ordered the prevention and punishment of the launch of balloons with propaganda leaflets criticizing the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), the president’s office said on Saturday.

    It has been confirmed that a public interest group sent leaflets via balloons across the border into North Korea early Saturday morning, presidential spokeswoman Kang Yoo-jung said in a written statement.

    Kang Yoo-jung noted that the Lee Jae-myung government has previously voiced its position that the illegal distribution of leaflets against the DPRK should be stopped, as it could threaten the daily lives and safety of people in border areas and lead to an escalation of military tensions on the Korean Peninsula.

    The President of the Republic of Kazakhstan ordered all relevant departments to develop measures to prevent the distribution of leaflets and punish them, scheduling a discussion of comprehensive actions to counter such actions for June 16.

    The official added that the public group and individuals who had earlier in the day dropped leaflets critical of the DPRK across the border would be punished in accordance with applicable laws. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Three killed, 172 injured in Iranian rocket attacks on Israel

    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

    JERUSALEM, June 14 (Xinhua) — Three Israelis were killed and 172 wounded in rocket attacks from Iran on Friday night and Saturday morning, Israeli state-run Kan TV reported.

    According to the channel, the two victims, 73-year-old Israel Aloni and 60-year-old Eti Cohen Angel, were killed in a rocket attack on the central city of Rishon LeZion on Saturday. The attack left 27 people injured and several homes severely damaged.

    Earlier on Friday evening, another woman was killed in an Iranian strike on a Tel Aviv neighborhood.

    Of the injured, one person is in serious condition, 15 were moderately injured, and the rest were lightly injured. According to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), seven of the wounded are soldiers, all of whom were lightly injured.

    Iran fired hundreds of rockets in five barrages, IDF says. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Iran appoints new army commander and IRGC Aerospace Force commander

    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

    TEHRAN, June 14 (Xinhua) — Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has appointed a new commander-in-chief of the army and commander of the aerospace force of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

    On Saturday, A. Khamenei appointed Majid Mousavi as the commander of the IRGC Aerospace Forces, the semi-official Iranian news agency Mehr reported.

    Mousavi, who previously served as deputy commander of the IRGC Aerospace Forces, was appointed to the post after his predecessor, Amir Ali Hajizadeh, was killed in Israeli airstrikes on Tehran on Friday.

    Also on Friday, the Iranian leader appointed former Iranian Defense Minister Amir Hatami as army commander-in-chief, Iran’s official IRNA news agency reported.

    Khatami replaced Abdolrahim Mousavi, who was appointed chief of the general staff of the Iranian armed forces on Friday following the death of the incumbent Mohammad Bagheri in Israeli airstrikes earlier in the day.

    On Friday morning, Israel launched airstrikes on the Iranian capital Tehran and other cities in the country.

    In addition to M. Bagheri and A. A. Hajizade, the head of the IRGC, Hossein Salami, and the commander of the central headquarters of the Iranian Armed Forces “Khatam al-Anbiya” /air defense forces headquarters/ Gholam Ali Rashid were also killed. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HK’s drinking water testing programme conducted in strict compliance with international standards

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    HK’s drinking water testing programme conducted in strict compliance with international standards 
    The spokesman said that, as understood, the media organisation had mainly collected samples of impurities from aerators of water taps (commonly known as strainers), and then placed the samples into water for laboratory testing. Aerators are a kind of filter accessory commonly installed at household water taps and shower heads to help block impurities. The presence of impurities in the samples is simply a result of the function of the strainer, and is not abnormal. In the past, the Water Supplies Department (WSD) had received similar inquiries, and staff members were deployed immediately to conduct onsite inspection, arrange flushing of consumers’ water meter, remind consumers to cleanse the strainers, and check if there were any irregularities in water quality. If there was a suspected water quality issue, the WSD would collect drinking water samples for testing and notify consumers about the results. In fact, only a few of such cases required water sample testing in the past three years, and testing results showed that the water samples complied with Hong Kong Drinking Water Standards (HKDWS).
     
    The spokesman stressed that water quality testing must be conducted in accordance with international standards, including making reference to ISO5667 of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) for sampling and referencing Chinese National Standard GB/T 5750 and American Public Health Association’s (APHA) in testing methods and procedures. The samples tested must be drinking water samples, not those collected from strainers as arranged by the relevant media organisation. In other words, the type of samples, methods and procedures will affect the validity and representativeness of the tests.
     
    The spokesman said that, as mentioned in the report, impurities collected from the strainers include resin, plastic, and silicone. It may relate to materials peeling off from pipes or fittings of the inside service of the building. These substances are not soluble in water. If such substances are found, the inside service should be cleansed as soon as possible. Generally, regular and proper cleansing and maintenance of the inside service of the building can effectively prevent excessive sediments accumulation and reduce impurities in strainers. Drinking water supplied by the WSD undergoes strict treatment and meets HKDWS. However, materials may peel off from public or inside service pipes of buildings due to aging or water pressure, necessitating the installation of strainers at pipes. Property owners, registered agents, and management offices must carry out regular and proper maintenance of building’s inside service, including cleansing sump and rooftop tanks to avoid sediments or rust accumulation, and regularly operating valves, cleansing filters, and flushing concealed water pipes to maintain good drinking water quality at the consumers’ taps.
     
    To ensure the quality of drinking water in Hong Kong, the WSD runs a routine drinking water testing programme, randomly collecting water samples from over 28,000 publicly accessible consumers’ taps (such as those in shopping centres, community facilities, sports venues, and government offices) for testing every year. The sampling rate is based on international standards and the water quality parameters are drawn up in accordance with World Health Organization guidelines. Moreover, the WSD randomly select about 670 residential and non-residential water accounts each year to collect drinking water samples at their water taps and test for six metals (antimony, cadmium, chromium, copper, lead, and nickel) to ensure compliance with HKDWS. Relevant test results are regularly published on the WSD’s website.
     
    The spokesman added that the WSD had requested more detailed information for follow-up with the consumer when enquiries were received from the media organisation. Such information is still awaited. The WSD will deploy staff to investigate and assist with flushing the inside service if the media organisation provides more information (including sampling locations). Water samples will also be taken for testing as needed to ensure water safety. For enquiries regarding drinking water quality, the public may call the WSD’s 24-hour hotline: 2824 5000.
    Issued at HKT 0:14

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Warren, Paul, Grassley Renew Bipartisan Fight to Expand Access To Hearing Services Through Medicare

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
    June 13, 2025
    Hearing loss affects over 50 million Americans and particularly affects older Americans, with nearly one in three people between the ages of 65 and 75 and around half of adults 75 or older reporting difficulty hearing. 
    Text of the Bill (PDF)
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Rand Paul (R-Ky.), and Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) led their colleagues in reintroducing the bipartisan Medicare Audiology Access Improvement Act, legislation to ensure that seniors and people with disabilities on Medicare are able to access a full range of hearing and balance health care services provided by licensed audiologists.
    Currently, audiologists are classified as non-physician health care professionals that are trained in the diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of individuals with hearing, balance, and related disorders. Although Medicare already covers various hearing health services, it currently does not recognize audiologists as providers, and they will only receive Medicare reimbursement for a limited set of tests to diagnose hearing or balance disorders—provided that patients first obtain an order from a physician or nurse practitioner. 
    “Outdated Medicare rules are preventing seniors from accessing the vital services audiologists provide,” said Senator Warren. “We’re introducing this bill because older Americans and people with disabilities deserve access to the full range of care they need.”
    The Medicare Audiologist Access Improvement Act of 2025 would reclassify audiologists as “practitioners” in the Medicare program, allowing Medicare beneficiaries to receive hearing and balance health care services from licensed audiologists.
    “The Medicare Audiology Access Improvement Act removes needless government barriers so Americans can access hearing care directly and affordably,” said Dr. Rand Paul. “It shows that when Congress focuses on practical solutions, we can work across the aisle to improve health care.”
    “I’m proud to have helped improve access to high-quality and affordable hearing aids through the Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids Act in 2017. However, millions of Americans are affected by hearing loss, and more work needs to be done to reduce barriers. “I’m glad to join my colleagues in introducing this bill to expand access and allow more seniors and individuals with disabilities to get help from a trained audiologist,” said Senator Grassley.
    The legislation is co-sponsored by Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), and Angus King (I-Maine).
    “Senior citizens deserve access to high quality audiology care and services they need,” said Senator Booker. “Too many patients suffering from hearing problems struggle to access care because current Medicare rules limit the range of services available. This legislation will remove barriers to accessing audiology care, expand the treatments available, and allow more audiologists to participate in Medicare.”
    “Too many Granite Staters suffering from hearing loss are met with bureaucratic barriers when trying to access the care that they need. Roughly one in every three adults between the ages of 65 and 75 experience hearing loss – and yet, they struggle to get care because Medicare does not recognize audiologists as providers,” said Senator Shaheen. “It’s past time we cut through this red tape to expand Medicare and ensure that older adults and Granite Staters with disabilities have access to the health services provided by audiologists. That’s why I’m proud to work across the aisle to introduce bipartisan legislation that does exactly that.”
    “Excessive red tape has made it increasingly difficult for more than 70,000 Vermonters who experience hearing loss and need access to audiology services. Outdated Medicaid rules make it harder for folks in every state to receive the crucial care audiologists provide,” said Senator Welch. “I’m proud to join my colleagues in reintroducing this bipartisan legislation to make it easier for seniors and folks with disabilities to get the audiology care they need.”
    The Medicare Audiology Access Improvement Act is supported by the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), the Academy of Doctors of Audiology, the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, the American Academy of Audiology, the Hearing Loss Association of America, the Hearing Industries Association, the Vestibular Disorders Association, the American Tinnitus Association, the National Rural Health Association, and the National Association of Rural Health Clinics.
    “The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association thanks Senators Warren, Paul, and Grassley for their continued leadership to ensure seniors have more streamlined and robust access to hearing and balance care provided by audiologists,” said ASHA 2025 President Bernadette Mayfield-Clarke, Ph.D., CCC-SLP. “ASHA looks forward to supporting their efforts to remove unnecessary bureaucratic barriers that unfairly penalize seniors and prevent them from accessing critical hearing and balance care in a timely and cost-effective manner.”
    The American Academy of Audiology’s President Patricia Gaffney, AuD, MPH, stated, “The leadership of these three dedicated senators in advancing audiologic access nationwide reinforces the vital work audiologists do every day to improve hearing and balance health care. For patients, this legislation represents a meaningful step forward—ensuring timely access to the essential services needed for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment of hearing and vestibular disorders.”
    “ADA applauds Senator Warren, Senator Paul, and Senator Grassley for championing the Medicare Audiology Access Improvement Act (MAAIA) to remove red tape so that seniors and individuals with disabilities have streamlined access to crucial hearing and balance healthcare services,” said Amyn Amlani, Ph.D., president of the Academy of Doctors of Audiology (ADA). “Eliminating burdensome pretreatment order requirements and classifying audiologists as Medicare practitioners will allow patients to receive timely, evidence-based care that improves communication, reduces fall risks, and enhances overall quality of life.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Press Arrangements for IAEA Board of Governors Meeting, 16 June 2025

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA

    The IAEA Board of Governors will convene a meeting at the Agency’s headquarters starting at 10:00 CEST on Monday, 16 June, in Board Room C, Building C, 4th floor, in the Vienna International Centre (VIC).

    The meeting is convened by the Chair of the Board following a request from the Permanent Mission of the Russian Federation for “an urgent session of the IAEA Board of Governors on the matter related to the Israeli attacks against the Iranian nuclear facilities that are under the IAEA safeguards”.

    The Board of Governors meeting is closed to the press.

    Photo Opportunity 

    There will be a photo opportunity with the IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi and the Chair of the Board, Ambassador Matilda Aku Alomatu Osei-Agyeman of Ghana, before the start of the Board meeting, on 16 June at 10:00 CEST in Board Room C, in the C building in the VIC. 

    Accreditation and Press Working Area:

    The Press Room on the M-Building’s ground floor will be available as a press working area starting from 9:00 CEST on 16 June.

    Journalists are requested to register with the Press Office by 08:00 CEST on Monday, 16 June. Please email press@iaea.org.

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: China Strengthens Legal Protection of Cultural Heritage Through Public Interest Litigation

    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 14 (Xinhua) — China’s procuratorates have stepped up efforts to protect cultural relics and heritage sites through public interest lawsuits, filing 2,160 cases in the first five months of 2025, the Supreme People’s Procuratorate (SPP) said Saturday.

    The announcement was made on China’s National Cultural and Natural Heritage Day. Senior Prosecutor of the NPC Xu Xiangchun said that in the second half of 2025, the agency will conduct a joint inspection with the National Cultural Heritage Administration of China to assess the progress of conservation work on the Great Wall of China.

    Efforts are aimed at assessing the implementation of corrective measures in already resolved cases, as well as identifying ongoing issues to strengthen the protection of this iconic heritage site.

    On the same day, the VNP also published a series of model cases of prosecutorial claims in defense of public interests related to the protection of cultural relics and heritage sites. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 300 drawn to Mainland legal course

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Mainland Civil & Commercial Legal Practice Training Course 2025 organised by the Hong Kong International Legal Talents Training Academy concluded today, attracting about 300 participants from the local legal sector.

    The two-day course is the first course held by the academy specifically for local barristers, solicitors, in-house counsel and dispute resolution practitioners.

    It aims to deepen the local industry’s understanding of the Mainland’s civil and commercial laws and practical operations, and promote exchanges between Hong Kong and the Mainland’s legal and dispute resolution sectors.

    Addressing the opening ceremony, Secretary for Justice Paul Lam said that Hong Kong and the Mainland have become more closely connected since Hong Kong’s return to the motherland, with economic and trade activities becoming increasingly frequent. While many Mainland enterprises leverage Hong Kong as an internationalised platform to go global, overseas enterprises also invest in the Mainland through Hong Kong.

    The academy specially organised this course to enable the local legal industry to gain in-depth understanding of the practice of civil and commercial law on the Mainland so that they can meet the actual needs arising from growing cross-boundary business, while improving their own competitiveness and expanding the room for their career development, Mr Lam added.

    Speaking at the closing ceremony, Deputy Secretary for Justice Cheung Kwok-kwan pointed out that Hong Kong’s leading position in international arbitration continues to be reinforced and enhanced.

    Mr Cheung highlighted the Department of Justice’s commitment to promoting the city’s leading position in arbitration in the Greater Bay Area and the international community, and providing legal services of higher quality and competitiveness to the Mainland and around the world, so as to further establish Hong Kong’s position as an international legal and dispute resolution services centre in the Asia-Pacific region.

    The course covers various key areas of the Mainland civil and commercial legal practice. Through lectures and seminars, the course further enhances the understanding and knowledge of Hong Kong’s legal and dispute resolution sectors on the practice and operation of the Mainland civil and commercial legal system, while providing a platform for exchange and co-operation between the Hong Kong and Mainland legal sectors.

    Speakers of the course comprise Mainland judges, academics, legal professionals, corporate representatives, arbitration practitioners and members of the Hong Kong International Legal Talents Training Expert Committee.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –