NewzIntel.com

Category: AM-NC

  • MIL-OSI USA: The Data Center Next Door: As Trump Eviscerates Guardrails, Senator Markey Hosts Roundtable Discussion on How AI Data Centers Can Harm Environment, Increase Costs to Households, and Threaten Public Health

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey

    View Storybook (PDF)

    Washington (July 23, 2025) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), a co-chair of the Environmental Justice Caucus and a member of the Environment and Public Works Committee and Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, today hosted a virtual roundtable discussion titled “The Data Center Next Door: Hidden Costs and Harms of Artificial Intelligence and Cryptomining.” Senator Markey was joined by Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09), frontline advocates, and allies to discuss the effects of rapid data center development on climate and communities, including impacts on local air quality, water, grid reliability, health, and utility bills. Speakers highlighted how communities and allied organizations across the country are working to curb harms from data center build-out and how policymakers can more proactively address unsustainable data center development.

    Today, Senator Markey also released a new storybook highlighting the personal experiences of individuals living near data center infrastructure.

    “I have heard from people across the country whose stories make clear: unregulated, uncontrolled data center development is sucking our communities dry. Our environment doesn’t have to be a sacrificial lamb on the altar of innovation. We can have green growth—but not if we have Trump’s AI Inaction Plan as our Big Tech Bible. Lawmakers at all levels of government can and must ensure the Trump administration’s no-holds-barred approach to data center construction does not come at the cost of our health and welfare,” said Senator Markey. “We are not truly moving forward if we harm and leave people behind in the process. We owe it to our neighbors, near and far, to address these impacts at the federal level before we see a race to the bottom—one that could even disadvantage states and towns that try to do things right.”

    “The heart of my district is seeing the environmental impacts of Artificial Intelligence (AI) first-hand, with the world’s biggest supercomputer beginning operations last year. It requires one million gallons of water each day to cool its components and uses the same amount of energy as all 250,000 households in Memphis combined. The continued development of AI will have a drastic effect on energy and water costs and consumption, and our environment as a whole,” said Congressman Cohen.

    “Bitcoin mining is the most energy and water-intensive technology ever created. As long as the bitcoin mining algorithm is operating at scale, it is impossible to make the transition to a resilient, equitable, affordable, and renewable grid,” said Jackie Sawicky, member of the National Coalition Against Cryptomining (NCAC).

    “Families across America are struggling to afford their soaring electric bills as a result of energy-guzzling AI data centers. We cannot afford to let AI fuel a new fossil fuel boom that raises our bills and destroys our environment,” said Ben Inskeep, Program Director at Citizens Action Coalition of Indiana.

    “West Virginia has long borne the brunt of powering our country via the extraction of our natural resources. This legacy and continued pollution from fossil fuel industries worsened health disparities, increased our utility bills, and poisoned our air and water. The rapid growth of artificial intelligence development and the numerous proposals of fossil fuel powered data centers in our region simply carries on that toxic tradition of resource extraction, corporate exploitation, and harmful pollution for West Virginians,” said Morgan King, Climate and Energy Program Manager at West Virginia Citizen Action Group.

    “What’s happening in Virginia is unsustainable and the desire to go even faster is irresponsible. The impacts are too great and the risks are too high, we must slow down and put better guardrails in place,” said Julie Bolthouse, AICP, Director of Land Use at Piedmont Environmental Council.

    “Over the last year, xAI installed and operated dozens of unpermitted methane gas turbines at its Memphis data center, essentially building a power plant without any public oversight or input from nearby communities. These turbines pump out smog-forming pollution and harmful chemicals like formaldehyde and are located near predominantly Black communities that are already overburdened with a long history of environmental injustice. Families in South Memphis deserve transparency and clean air,” said Amanda Garcia, senior attorney in the Tennessee office of the Southern Environmental Law Center.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • India, China review border situation in 34th WMCC meet, plan next round of talks

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India and China on Wednesday held the 34th meeting of the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination (WMCC) on border affairs in New Delhi, where both sides reviewed the situation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and discussed steps to maintain peace and stability in the border areas.

    The Indian delegation was led by Gourangalal Das, Joint Secretary (East Asia), while the Chinese side was headed by Hong Liang, Director General of the Boundary and Oceanic Affairs Department in China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

    The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement that the two sides took note of the general prevalence of peace and tranquillity in the border areas and acknowledged the gradual improvement in bilateral ties.

    “They agreed to maintain regular diplomatic and military contacts through established mechanisms on the issues related to the India-China border,” the MEA said.

    The delegations also discussed measures previously explored during the 23rd round of Special Representatives (SR) talks and the 33rd WMCC meeting to further strengthen border management and avoid friction.

    As part of the confidence-building process, the two sides are also preparing for the next round of SR-level talks on the boundary question, which is expected to be held in India later this year.

    During his visit, the head of the Chinese delegation, Hong Liang, also called on the Indian Foreign Secretary, signalling continued diplomatic engagement at multiple levels.

    The WMCC was set up in 2012 as an institutional mechanism for consultation and coordination on India-China border affairs, and to maintain peace along the LAC through regular dialogue.

  • Bihar Electoral Roll Update: 98% coverage achieved as first phase of special revision nears completion

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The first phase of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the Bihar Electoral Roll, which began on June 24, is nearing completion, with an impressive 98.01% coverage of electors across the state. The Election Commission of India (ECI) confirmed the progress on Tuesday, noting that the revision is aimed at ensuring no eligible voter is excluded and no ineligible person remains on the rolls.

    According to ECI, on July 23, more than 7.17 crore electors’ enumeration forms (90.89%) have been received and digitised. The data collected so far has revealed that approximately 20 lakh electors have been reported as deceased, 28 lakh have permanently migrated, and 7 lakh individuals are enrolled at multiple locations. Additionally, 1 lakh electors have been found to be untraceable, while forms from 15 lakh electors have not yet been returned.

    In a significant step toward electoral transparency, on July 20, the Election Commission shared lists of potentially incorrectly included electors and those who failed to submit their enumeration forms with 1.5 lakh Booth Level Agents (BLAs). These BLAs were nominated by district-level leaders of 12 major political parties in Bihar.

    The Commission has also streamlined the submission process for temporarily migrated electors from Bihar who have not registered elsewhere. These individuals can submit their enumeration forms via the ECI’s online portal (https://electors.eci.gov.in), the ECINet mobile app, or by sending signed printed forms to their Booth Level Officers (BLOs) through a family member or via WhatsApp.

    Electors who have submitted their forms can track the status on the ECI website and have been notified via SMS, provided they shared their mobile numbers in the forms.

    The Draft Electoral Roll will be published on August 1, 2025, marking the end of the first phase. If errors are found, electors or political parties may file objections regarding wrongly included names with the Electoral Registration Officer (ERO) or Assistant Electoral Registration Officer (AERO) of their constituency. Likewise, eligible individuals who are missing from the roll can file claims for inclusion by September 1, 2025.

  • MIL-OSI USA: Several Amata-Cosponsored Bills Passed by Foreign Affairs Committee

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Aumua Amata (Western Samoa)

    Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata is highlighting several bills she cosponsored that were passed Tuesday by the House Foreign Affairs Committee (HFAC) as part of a slate of a dozen bills, including Pacific issues and combating human trafficking.

    Congresswoman Amata during votes Tuesday in the Foreign Affairs Committee

    Congresswoman Amata is an original cosponsor of H.R. 4490, as introduced by Congressman Joquin Castro (D-TX). Notably in the Pacific region, this bill ensures important diplomatic rights and recognitions for the nations in the Pacific Islands Forum. Along with Congresswoman Amata, this key bipartisan bill is also cosponsored by Rep. Young Kim (R-CA) and Rep. Ed Case (D-HI). The bill’s full title is To amend the International Organizations Immunities Act to extend diplomatic privileges and immunities to certain additional international and regional organizations.

    Congresswoman Amata is a cosponsor of the Frederick Douglass Trafficking Victims Prevention and Protection Reauthorization Act of 2025, H.R. 1144. This bipartisan bill is led by Chairman Chris Smith (R-NJ), who has served in Congress for 45 years and is widely recognized as Congress’s foremost human rights champion in his longtime legislative focus. The bill reauthorizes and updates the landmark Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000, also led by Rep. Smith, which strengthened federal prosecutions and victim protections from either forced labor or sexual trafficking, created the Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons, and the Interagency Task Force to Monitor and Combat Trafficking, and boosted international cooperative efforts to combat trafficking.

    Amata also cosponsored the US-Japan-ROK Trilateral Cooperation Act, H.R. 3429, introduced by Rep. Ami Bera (D-CA). Along with Congresswoman Amata, this bipartisan bill has the support of various Pacific coast colleagues including Rep. Case (D-HI), Rep. Young (R-CA), Rep. Ted Lieu (D-CA), Rep. Marilyn Strickland (D-WA), Rep. James Moylan (R-Guam), Rep. Kimberlyn King-Hinds (R-CNMI), and several other senior Members. This bill creates a regular inter-parliamentary dialogue to facilitate closer cooperation between the United States, Japan, and the Republic of Korea on shared interests and values.

    Finally, she is cosponsoring H.R. 4233, the ARMOR Act, under the full title the AUKUS Reform for Military Optimization and Review Act. Led by Rep. Young Kim, this bill updates and expedites provisions on defense trade and cooperation among Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States (known as AUKUS).

    “These are bills that work together to strengthen our Pacific region and promote cooperation among key allies and partners for mutual stability, security and prosperity,” said Congresswoman Aumua Amata. “I’m especially pleased to cosponsor Chairman Smith’s ongoing work to combat trafficking, and I want to thank him for his dedication to this great moral cause. Thank you also to all my Pacific region colleagues supporting efforts that affect us in the Pacific.” 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Amata Highlights National Hire A Veteran Day  

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Aumua Amata (Western Samoa)

    Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Uifa’atali Aumua Amata is calling attention to National Hire A Veteran Day, which is Friday, July 25th, 2025, to show appreciation to Veterans and their ongoing and important role in their communities after their service. 

    “Veterans serve an integral part in our community in American Samoa, and throughout the country. Millions of men and women have dedicated themselves to learning discipline, strength, and teamwork from their career in the Armed Forces. Veterans continue to uplift our communities with their abundance of technical skills, seasoned work ethic, and leadership. Thank you to the many companies and federal agencies that take part in National Hire a Veteran Day, especially those that express to our Veterans in American Samoa and nationwide how much they mean to us.”  

    “The transition our Veterans face when leaving the Armed Forces is not an easy one. It is not only a change in careers but also a change in way of life. They deserve every opportunity to find their next professions, putting their hard-earned abilities and knowledge to work in their next field in support of their families and the next chapter of their success. Thank you to each of our Veterans.”

    Resources:

    VA is a resource for Veterans’ career services, starting with an Employment Toolkit: https://www.va.gov/vetsinworkplace/veteranresources.asp.

    Additionally, Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) works with employers who hire and retain service members and Veterans with disabilities, to increase the employment of Veterans, and enable Veterans with disabilities to reach their full potential. Visit https://www.va.gov/vre.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Amata Mourns Passing of Longtime Friend, Gov. Palacios

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Aumua Amata (Western Samoa)

    Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata is mourning the passing of the Honorable Arnold Indalecio Palacios, Governor of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and honoring his life and respected legacy of leadership. 

    At the CNMI inaugural ball in 2023 speaking with President Whipps of Palau and Governor Palacios of CNMI

    “I am deeply saddened by the passing of a good friend in Governor Palacios. He is a longtime family friend, and he was a friend to American Samoa over the years. I’ve known him since his youth, and he was a close friend to my brothers. I send my heartfelt condolences to the people of the Northern Marianas, and to his dear family in this time of grief, who will be in my prayers. We think especially of First Lady Wella Palacios, their children, and entire family. Condolences also to my brother Milton Coleman, brother-in-law to the Governor’s father, and my niece, Marie, who worked closely with him as a Chief of Staff within his government.

    “He was a dedicated public servant, and his memory will be honored in CNMI and across the Pacific. Governor Palacios was a sincere leader, who desired the best for CNMI and the territories, and he led with purpose, compassion, and dignity as a statesman. He will hold an important place in CNMI’s history. Remarkably, he led at various times all the major roles, serving as Governor, Lt. Governor, Speaker of the House, President of the Senate. He worked for good fiscal decisions, promoting responsible caretaking of the islands, upholding values, and preserving the culture for the future. He set an excellent example for future leaders in the region. 

    “I thank God for his exceptional life and his friendship over the years. He was a man of faith and belief in God, and we can take comfort in that. He will be deeply missed. God bless his family and the people of the Northern Marianas.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Amata Gains $900,000 Increase for American Samoa’s DOI/OIA Budget in House Bill, Will Work with Senate

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Aumua Amata (Western Samoa)

    Washington, D.C. –Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata is hailing full Committee passage of the Department of the Interior Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2026, which funds American Samoa’s DOI Operations fund. This year’s House bill has a $900,000 increase for American Samoa for a new total of $29 million – that despite the bill’s overall trimming of the Office of Insular Affairs spending. 

    Of American Samoa’s $29 million in the bill, $3 million is designated to American Samoa Community College at Amata’s request. Next steps for the bill include full House consideration followed by likely reconciliation efforts with a Senate bill. This major bill also supports all federal interior and insular grants and services for the year ahead.

    “An increase for American Samoa in the House bill is a welcome addition, especially since our boost is despite the decrease to OIA overall,” said Congresswoman Aumua Amata. “I appreciate the bipartisan support for our islands from the leadership on this bill, Chairman Tom Cole, Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro, Subcommittee Chairman Mike Simpson, and Ranking Member Chellie Pingree. I will work with key Senate negotiators to secure American Samoa’s funding.”

    Appropriations in 2025 for American Samoa’s operations DOI account was $28.1 million, including the designation of $3 million of these funds to ASCC operations at Amata’s request for the past several years.

    Following decades of level funding, this year’s bill would mark the seventh increase since 2018 to American Samoa’s operations fund for an accumulated boost of $6.3 million.

    Those prior requests resulted in increased amounts of $250,000, $718,000, $400,000, $500,000, $2.5 million, and $1 million, all accumulated and preserved in this legislation. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Media Statement: Transgender sports policy reflects public opinion

    Source: Family First

    Today’s superb (and well overdue) policy change by Sport New Zealand regarding biological males in women’s sports simply reflects public opinion.

    A recent Curia Market Research poll found that only 13% of New Zealanders thought that boys who identify as girls should be able to play in a girls team. 68% said they shouldn’t, and 19% were unsure.

    What is most interesting is that a similar poll in 2018 by the same polling company found that support and opposition was locked at 39% each. Opposition has grown markedly over the last five years to the unfairness and safety concerns around boys competing against girls.

    Contrary to the narrative, ‘𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬 𝐩𝐞𝐨𝐩𝐥𝐞’ 𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐲 𝐬𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭. 𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐲 𝐣𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐧 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐭𝐞𝐚𝐦 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐢𝐫 𝐛𝐢𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐬𝐞𝐱. The other option is to create a new mixed category.

    But females deserve to play in their own league. The government had dropped the ball on this by not sending clear guidelines to sporting groups.

    𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐧𝐞𝐰 𝐩𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐲 𝐢𝐬 𝐚 𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐛𝐢𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐲, 𝐟𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬, 𝐰𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧 & 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐨𝐧 𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐞.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Golden, Collins introduce bipartisan legislation to create disaster relief fund for loggers

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02)

    WASHINGTON — Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02) and Senator Susan Collins (R-ME) today introduced the bicameral, bipartisan Loggers Economic Assistance and Relief Act, which would establish a new program within the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to support loggers who have lost income due to natural disasters.

    Senator Angus King (I-ME) and Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (ME-01) are original cosponsors of the legislation, while Congressman Pete Stauber (R-MN-08) is the lead cosponsor in the House. 

    Current law excludes loggers from the kinds of disaster relief and assistance available to other industries, including fishermen and farmers, when natural disasters strike. Under the Loggers Economic Assistance and Relief Act, a disaster declaration from the president or governor would unlock federal assistance eligibility for logging businesses with at least a 10 percent loss in revenue or volume compared to the prior year. Covered damage would include high winds, fire, flooding, insect infestation and drought. 

    “You can’t write the story of Maine without loggers. Our forest products industry has provided for generations of Mainers and continues to be the economic bedrock of many rural communities. There must be a safety net to ensure one particularly bad season cannot uproot logging families and communities” Golden said. “I’m proud of our loggers, and I’m proud of the rock-solid coalition we’re building to support them. ”

    “Maine’s forest products industry has long supported good‑paying jobs and helped grow local economies across our state. Loggers are at the heart of that industry, but devastating storms in recent years have severely impacted the ability of logging businesses to operate at full capacity,” Senator Collins said. “This bipartisan bill would provide targeted financial assistance to help loggers recover from federally declared disasters, so that they can continue their important work, sustain rural communities, and contribute to our state’s economy.”

    “In Minnesota’s Eighth Congressional District, our forest products industry has created good paying jobs and driven our local economies,” Stauber said. “Unfortunately, this crucial industry is currently facing a wide variety of threats, from wildfires and drought to insect infestation. Minnesota’s loggers have supported our communities for generations, and it is now our turn to support them. That’s why I am proud to introduce legislation with my friend, Congressman Jared Golden, to establish a new program through the USDA that will provide financial assistance to timber harvesting and timber hauling businesses that have seen their bottom line impacted by natural disasters. I look forward to seeing this legislation help ensure Minnesota’s forest products industry remains strong and resilient.”

    In December 2023, Maine’s logging industry lost $2.6 million after just one particularly severe storm — with a survey released by the Professional Logging Contractors of the Northeast later finding that more than 90 percent of the industry’s businesses suffered damage to equipment or logistics. In total, Maine’s economy lost $5.5 million due to the loss in logging revenue and productivity that winter.

    “Generations of loggers have spent their lifetimes powering our state’s economy while providing for their families, which is why it is so important to protect and sustain this historic industry,”  Senator King said. “As natural disasters across Maine increase, the bipartisan Loggers Economic Assistance and Relief Act will help establish a new program within the USDA to support loggers who need assistance to overcome damage and lost income. The logging industry has supported rural Maine families and communities for hundreds of years, and it’s imperative that investments in our foresting community evolve for today’s challenges as we protect it for a sturdy future.” 

    “As Maine experiences more extreme weather events and natural disasters, it’s imperative that we protect our state’s loggers from potentially devastating financial impacts—just as we’ve long done for our fishermen and farmers,” Pingree, a member of the House Agriculture Committee, said.“We’ve already seen the harmful impacts climate change has created for our forest products industry, from delayed harvests to damaged equipment and infrastructure. This common-sense, bipartisan legislation will provide real relief to the families and communities that rely on Maine’s forests for their livelihoods and wellbeing.”

    Logging industry leaders praised the bipartisan legislation: 

    • Dana Doran, executive director of the Professional Logging Contractors of the Northeast: “For too long, logging and forest trucking contractors in the Northeast have been left out of federal relief efforts in the wake of natural disasters, despite suffering losses as severe as those in other industries like fishing and farming that have received aid. The extreme weather our region has experienced in recent years has idled harvest operations for long periods, destroyed logging and timber hauling infrastructure, and driven up costs at a time when the logging industry is already grappling with unprecedented challenges and can least afford it. We are grateful to Congressmen Golden and the rest of Maine’s delegation for their leadership in this effort to secure fair treatment for these hard-working small family businesses, and we encourage swift passage of the Loggers Economic Assistance and Relief Act to provide the aid the industry deserves.”
    • Chuck Ames, president of SDR Logging, Sebec, ME: “I talk to loggers every day and most are struggling, but all they ask for is a level playing field with other industries. I believe this legislation is a step in the right direction toward treating loggers the same as farmers and fishermen. We are all harvesting natural resources, and are all impacted by natural disasters. I appreciate the efforts of Congressman Golden and the rest of Maine’s congressional delegation to recognize that and pass this bill on our behalf.”
    • Marc Greaney, president of Western Maine Timberlands, Fryeburg, ME: “I have been logging for decades in Western Maine, and in recent years have seen severe weather limit my company’s ability to harvest and truck wood for longer periods of time than ever before. When we can’t cut and move wood we don’t get paid, and this is happening at the same time that operating costs are continuing to rise, so I am grateful to Congressman Golden and the other members of Maine’s congressional delegation for attempting to provide disaster relief to loggers in the same way it has been provided to other industries in the past.”
    • Scott Dane, executive director of the American Loggers Council: “The timber industry invests in public and private stumpage (timber) years in advance. A multiyear timber portfolio is necessary to adjust for market and weather conditions. This is an essential element for a logger’s business plan. When unforeseen natural disasters such as drought, wildfire, winds, and invasive species infestations occur, the timber is lost. There are limited options, if any, to replace that timber with new tracts in a timely manner. These losses are extremely disruptive to a logger’s harvest plan and create a significant revenue loss. Congressman Golden’s Loggers Assistance and Relief Act is necessary to support the timber industry, similar to assistance programs for other natural resource and agricultural sectors. The American Loggers Council appreciates the Maine Congressional Delegation, and other sponsors, for this Bill and the security it will provide to logging and trucking businesses” 

    Full text of the legislation can be found here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Books – SNAKE TALK: How the world’s ancient serpent stories can guide us

    Source: Text Publishing Company

    Book Authors – Tyson Yunkaporta & Megan Kelleher.

    Shining an Indigenous light on contemporary society, Snake Talk invites us to see the world through the eye of the snake

    The Serpent in Aboriginal stories is both creator and destroyer, dwelling between physical and spiritual worlds, between story and history, weaving across earth and sky. The Great Dividing Range is the body of the Serpent, but he does not separate us—he brings us together.

    What if this ancient Lore can be found everywhere? What if the stories of the Basilisk, Wyvern, Naga, Quetzalcoatl and many other mythic Serpents also contain the knowledge we need in this moment of crisis?

    In Snake Talk, Tyson Yunkaporta and Megan Kelleher follow these stories around the world from Kathmandu to Aotearoa, from Mesoamerica to China to northern Europe. They ask how we can align our human gifts with the patterns of creation, seeking answers from makers who pay homage to the Serpent in images and objects.

    This exhilarating new book—like Sand Talk and Right Story, Wrong Story—shines an Indigenous light on contemporary society. Snake Talk invites us to see the world through the eye of the Serpent.

     ‘An extraordinary invitation into the world of the Dreaming…Unheralded.’ Melissa Lucashenko on Sand Talk

    ‘Bristles with revelation…Vigorous brilliance…both sensible and subversive.’ Age on Right Story, Wrong Story

    Tyson Yunkaporta:


    Tyson Yunkaporta is an Aboriginal scholar, founder of the Indigenous Knowledge Systems Lab at Deakin University in Melbourne, and author of Sand Talk. His work focuses on applying Indigenous methods of inquiry to resolve complex issues and explore global crises.

    Megan Kelleher:

    Megan Kelleher belongs to the Barada and Kapalbara peoples of Central Queensland and the branch of the Kelleher clan living in regional Victoria. She is currently undertaking her PhD at RMIT University in the School of Media and Communication and was honoured to be awarded one of RMIT’s Vice Chancellor’s Indigenous Pre‑Doctoral Fellowships in 2018.

    Megan is investigating whether the affordances of blockchain technology are culturally appropriate for Indigenous governance, and is undertaking this research as a core member of the Digital Ethnography Research Centre (DERC) and as a PhD Candidate within The ARC Centre of Excellence for Automated Decision-Making and Society (ADM+S). When she is not training to be an academic, Megan is a devoted mother of her three beautiful children, Eden, Diver and Onyx.

    2 SEP 2025
    Non-fiction Paperback, 224pp
    AU $36.99 / NZ $45.00
    ISBN 9781922790941

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Books – SNAKE TALK: How the world’s ancient serpent stories can guide us

    Source: Text Publishing Company

    Book Authors – Tyson Yunkaporta & Megan Kelleher.

    Shining an Indigenous light on contemporary society, Snake Talk invites us to see the world through the eye of the snake

    The Serpent in Aboriginal stories is both creator and destroyer, dwelling between physical and spiritual worlds, between story and history, weaving across earth and sky. The Great Dividing Range is the body of the Serpent, but he does not separate us—he brings us together.

    What if this ancient Lore can be found everywhere? What if the stories of the Basilisk, Wyvern, Naga, Quetzalcoatl and many other mythic Serpents also contain the knowledge we need in this moment of crisis?

    In Snake Talk, Tyson Yunkaporta and Megan Kelleher follow these stories around the world from Kathmandu to Aotearoa, from Mesoamerica to China to northern Europe. They ask how we can align our human gifts with the patterns of creation, seeking answers from makers who pay homage to the Serpent in images and objects.

    This exhilarating new book—like Sand Talk and Right Story, Wrong Story—shines an Indigenous light on contemporary society. Snake Talk invites us to see the world through the eye of the Serpent.

     ‘An extraordinary invitation into the world of the Dreaming…Unheralded.’ Melissa Lucashenko on Sand Talk

    ‘Bristles with revelation…Vigorous brilliance…both sensible and subversive.’ Age on Right Story, Wrong Story

    Tyson Yunkaporta:


    Tyson Yunkaporta is an Aboriginal scholar, founder of the Indigenous Knowledge Systems Lab at Deakin University in Melbourne, and author of Sand Talk. His work focuses on applying Indigenous methods of inquiry to resolve complex issues and explore global crises.

    Megan Kelleher:

    Megan Kelleher belongs to the Barada and Kapalbara peoples of Central Queensland and the branch of the Kelleher clan living in regional Victoria. She is currently undertaking her PhD at RMIT University in the School of Media and Communication and was honoured to be awarded one of RMIT’s Vice Chancellor’s Indigenous Pre‑Doctoral Fellowships in 2018.

    Megan is investigating whether the affordances of blockchain technology are culturally appropriate for Indigenous governance, and is undertaking this research as a core member of the Digital Ethnography Research Centre (DERC) and as a PhD Candidate within The ARC Centre of Excellence for Automated Decision-Making and Society (ADM+S). When she is not training to be an academic, Megan is a devoted mother of her three beautiful children, Eden, Diver and Onyx.

    2 SEP 2025
    Non-fiction Paperback, 224pp
    AU $36.99 / NZ $45.00
    ISBN 9781922790941

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • Over 3.42 pilgrims had ‘Darshan’ in 21 days, Amarnath Yatra to cross officially expected 3.5-lakh mark today

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Since this year’s Amarnath Yatra started on July 3, more than 3.42 lakh yatris have had ‘darshan’ so far while a fresh batch of 3,500 pilgrims started their journey on Thursday from Jammu towards the two base camps, officials said.

    Officials said that more than 3.42 lakh yatris have performed the ongoing Amarnath Yatra during the last 21 days as the huge rush of pilgrims continues unabated.

    “The officially expected figure of 3.50 lakh yatris performing the Yatra this year is likely to be crossed on Thursday, while 17 days are still left for the conclusion of this year’s Yatra.”

    “The Yatra has been going on peacefully, smoothly and this has encouraged the devotees to come in record numbers. As more than 3.42 lakh have had darshan in the last 21 days, we had another batch of 3,500 yatris, who left the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu for the Valley on Thursday.”

    “Of these, the first escorted convoy of 45 vehicles carrying 832 yatris left for the Baltal base camp at 3:25 a.m. while the second convoy of 95 vehicles carrying 2,668 yatris to the Pahalgam base camp left at 4:01 a.m.,” officials said.

    The Bhumi Pujan of ‘Chhari Mubarak’ (Lord Shiva’s Holy Mace) was performed at Pahalgam on July 10. The Chhari Mubarak was then taken back to its seat at the Dashnami Akhara building.

    It will start its final journey towards the cave shrine from Dashnami Akhara temple in Srinagar on August 4 and will reach the holy cave shrine on August 9, marking the official conclusion of the Yatra.

    Authorities have made extensive multi-tier security arrangements for this year’s Amarnath Yatra, as it takes place after the cowardly attack of April 22 in which Pakistan-backed terrorists killed 26 civilians after segregating them based on faith in the Baisaran meadow of Pahalgam.

    Additional 180 companies of Central Armed Police Forces have been brought in to augment the existing strength of the Army, BSF, CRPF, SSB and the local police.

    The Army has deployed more than 8,000 special commandos to secure the passage of the pilgrims this year.

    The Yatra started on July 3 and will end after 38 days on August 9, coinciding with Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan.

    Yatris approach the holy cave shrine situated ,888 metres above sea level in the Kashmir Himalayas either from the traditional Pahalgam route or the shorter Baltal route.

    Those using the Pahalgam route pass through Chandanwari, Sheshnag and Panchtarni to reach the cave shrine, covering a distance of 46 km on foot.

    This trek takes a pilgrim four days to get to the cave shrine.

    Those using the shorter Baltal route have to trek 14 km to reach the cave shrine and return to the base camp the same day after having darshan.

    No helicopter services are available to yatris this year due to security reasons.

    The cave shrine houses an ice stalagmite structure that wanes and waxes with the phases of the moon.

    Devotees believe that the ice stalagmite structure symbolises the mythical powers of Lord Shiva.

    (IANS)

  • From Gujarat to global: How PM Modi’s diaspora diplomacy took root in the UK

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    As Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in London on Wednesday, he was greeted by thunderous chants of “Modi Modi”, “Bharat Mata ki Jai”, and “Vande Mataram” from the Indian community — an emphatic reminder of a diplomatic tradition he initiated decades ago, long before rising to India’s highest political office.

    This growing emotional and strategic connect with the Indian diaspora has become a cornerstone of India’s foreign policy under PM Modi, especially during his second term.

    The foundations of this approach were laid as early as 1993, when Narendra Modi — then BJP’s General Secretary in Gujarat and an emerging national figure — made an impromptu stop in the UK on his return from the United States. Although the visit was unplanned and brief, Modi ensured he connected with the Indian diaspora in the UK. He visited media hubs like Sunrise Radio and the Gujarati newspaper Naya Padkar, interacted with families in Croydon and Hastings, engaged in informal conversations, rode the London Underground, and exchanged ideas with everyday Indians living in Britain.

    “The seeds planted then would quietly nourish India’s diaspora diplomacy for decades to come,” the Modi Archive said in a post on X, while sharing a timeline of the Prime Minister’s engagements in the UK.

    By 1999, when Modi had become a key national figure and the BJP’s global voice, he returned to the UK for a five-day visit in October, shortly after the BJP’s sweeping national electoral victory. Then serving as BJP’s National General Secretary, Modi had just delivered a stellar performance in Gujarat — winning 20 out of 26 Lok Sabha seats and expanding the party’s grassroots presence from 1,000 to over 16,000 village units between 1985 and 1995. This visit was highlighted by a landmark event at the Swaminarayan School in Neasden, organised by the Overseas Friends of BJP (UK). Despite a cold drizzle, the hall was packed.

    Notable attendees included Lord Navnit Dholakia, MP Barry Gardiner (Chairman of Labour Friends of India), and C.B. Patel, editor of Gujarat Samachar.

    “BJP stands for nationalism and patriotism,” Narendra Modi was quoted as saying by the Modi Archive.

    During this visit, he expanded on India’s democratic traditions, the NDA’s policy vision, and paid homage to Gandhian ideals — illustrating the BJP’s ideological clarity and moral purpose. He framed the BJP not just as a political force, but as a cultural and civilizational movement rooted in tradition, religion, modernity, and democracy. He further asserted that India’s democratic ethos is admired across the world.

    In addition, Modi was honoured by the Lohana Mahajan community, where he commended overseas Indians for serving as authentic ambassadors of Indian civilisation. He also paid a visit to 10 Downing Street during the trip.

    Modi’s emphasis on global awareness continued during another visit to the UK in 2000. In September that year, he stopped in London en route to the World Hindu Conference in the Caribbean and the UN Peace Summit in the US. At the time, he was about to assume the influential position of BJP General Secretary (Organisation), a role only two others had held since the Jana Sangh era.

    During this short visit, Modi met British Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott and engaged in serious discussions on political stability in Asia, India’s regional situation, and the growing threat of international terrorism. He also met with members of the Overseas Friends of BJP and held teleconferences with C.B. Patel, updating them on the state of affairs in Gujarat and national security efforts in Jammu and Kashmir.

    “Terrorism is an evil against humanity — whether in India, the Middle East, or Northern Ireland,” Modi said.

    It was a prescient warning that came a full year before the 9/11 attacks, at a time when much of the world had yet to perceive terrorism as a shared global menace.

    In August 2003, two years after the devastating Bhuj earthquake in Gujarat, Modi returned to the UK as Chief Minister of Gujarat.

    The purpose was to thank members of the Indian diaspora, many of whom had mobilised support, resources, and aid for the affected people.

    “You are all the real friends of Gujarat, and I have come to reciprocate the loyalty. We have slept in the street of death and today I have come to repay a debt of friendship to those who helped us in our hour of need,” Modi said, addressing thousands at the packed Wembley Conference Centre.

    He praised the diaspora not just for their financial contributions but for their deep emotional ties with India, calling them “the true friends of Gujarat”.

    During this visit, he also inaugurated the Shakti Hall at the Gujarat Samachar and Asian Voice offices. True to his style, he spoke not just of the past, but also of the future.

    In a speech still fondly remembered by the editors of Asian Voice, Modi famously said, “IT is not Information Technology. IT is India Today. BT is not Biotechnology. It is Bharat Today. IT and IT equals IT. That means Information Technology and Indian Talent is India Tomorrow.”

    The visit also included a meeting with then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, who was in London at the time. Modi later met a delegation of political leaders and diaspora members on the South Bank of the River Thames, near Westminster Bridge, opposite the iconic Houses of Parliament.

    Even in 2011, when Gujarat marked its golden jubilee, he virtually brought the UK into the celebrations. He addressed a high-profile audience in Mayfair, London, through video conferencing while in Gandhinagar, stating, “The name Gujarat and development are synonymous. Gujarat is creating history.”

    The event, hosted by Friends of Gujarat, Gujarat Samachar, and Asian Voice, brought together 90 distinguished guests including British MPs, Lords, and community leaders. Among them was Lord Gulam Noon, who had a direct and lively exchange with Modi.

    He used the opportunity to share his vision for the future. He announced the construction of the Mahatma Mandir, a monumental tribute rising from the soil of 18,000 villages — and including ‘mitti’ sent by Gujaratis living abroad.

    “In this Golden Jubilee celebration, we have decided to build a Mahatma Mandir. We have collected earth from 18,000 villages in Gujarat to make this monument. We have also collected earth from abroad, especially the UK,” he said.

    The message was clear: for Narendra Modi, the diaspora has never been a passive audience.

    It has always been, and continues to be, an integral part of India’s journey — a partner in progress and a powerful force in shaping India’s global image.

    Now, as Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi continues to acknowledge and celebrate the contributions made by overseas Indians in deepening people-to-people ties and in promoting India’s image and influence across the globe.

    IANS

  • Lok Sabha to discuss Scheduled Tribes Reservation Bill for Goa, Merchant Shipping Bill today

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    As the Monsoon Session of Parliament enters its fourth day, the Lok Sabha is scheduled to take up key legislative business on Thursday, including the Scheduled Tribes reservation bill for Goa and the Merchant Shipping Bill, 2024.

    Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal will move The Readjustment of Representation of Scheduled Tribes in Assembly Constituencies of the State of Goa Bill, 2024 for consideration and passage. The Bill seeks to enable the reservation of seats for Scheduled Tribes in Goa’s Legislative Assembly, in line with Article 332 of the Constitution. It proposes the readjustment of assembly constituencies following the inclusion of certain communities in the Scheduled Tribes list for the state.

    According to the official business list, the Bill aims to ensure “effective democratic participation of members of Scheduled Tribes” and make the necessary constituency changes to reflect this inclusion.

    Also on the agenda is The Merchant Shipping Bill, 2024, which will be introduced by Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal. The legislation seeks to consolidate and modernise India’s maritime laws, aligning them with international treaties and obligations. The Bill aims to promote the development of Indian shipping and enhance the efficiency and maintenance of the country’s mercantile marine sector, while safeguarding national interests.

    In addition to legislative matters, standing committees on Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, and Communications and Information Technology are expected to table reports on government actions taken in response to earlier recommendations made by the respective panels.

    Parliament proceedings on Wednesday were disrupted due to continued protests by Opposition MPs over the Bihar Special Intensive Revision issue, leading to adjournments in both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha until July 24.

    The current Monsoon Session of Parliament is scheduled to continue until August 21. Both Houses will reconvene at 11 a.m. today.

    (With agencies inputs)

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Two students from the Physics Department of NSU passed the selection and presented their research in Moscow – at the International School on Quantum Technologies ISQT

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Novosibirsk State University –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The International School of Quantum Technologies ISQT was held in Moscow, bringing together 30 of the best students from all over Russia. Among the participants were Ksenia Kozlenko and Ekaterina Kozlova, first-year master’s students Physics Department of NSUThey passed a competitive selection and presented poster reports, presenting their own research in the field of quantum physics.

    — The selection was based on the CV, motivation letter, and recommendation letter. The scientific supervisor told me about the school. I applied and was included in the list of participants. I was very worried, but it turned out I was in vain. The atmosphere was warm and truly student-like. The poster session was not a formal defense before the committee — you could freely communicate, share experiences, ask questions, and listen to others. This was the first conference where I really wanted to stay and talk to everyone, — says Ksenia Kozlenko.

    The topic of her speech was the development of a quantum computer on neutral atoms. This architecture is currently being actively developed in the USA, but remains technically complex.

    — My task is to model logical operations in the context of quantum computing and find out whether it is possible to simplify the system without losing accuracy. After school, I understood more clearly in what direction to develop, and even found answers to some questions about work. And I also met guys who are truly inspiring — everyone was passionate about their topic and sincerely wanted to share knowledge. This impressed me the most, — Ksenia explains.

    Ekaterina Kozlova presented a study on the Hanle effect in the ground state of alkali metal atoms and its application in quantum magnetometry.

    — Based on this effect, it is possible to develop miniature and very sensitive magnetometers. They can be used in medicine (for example, for magnetoencephalography), in geophysics, in navigation, for creating magnetic maps, in space and fundamental science. That is, this is not just “theory for the sake of theory”, but a completely practical direction, and I am glad that I was able to present it at such a level, — explains Ekaterina.

    One of the most memorable moments for her was a visit to the RCC laboratory, where they work with SQUIDs – superconducting quantum interference sensors.

    — These sensors are the main competitors of optically pumped magnetometers, which we make in our lab. It was useful to compare approaches and equipment. We even held a SQUID in our hands and saw how it works — this gave me even more understanding of my topic, — Ekaterina shares.

    The students call the poster presentation format particularly valuable.

    “It’s like a regular report, only in a live format – communication takes place right next to the poster, you can immediately discuss the nuances, argue, get feedback, and you can also go and see what others are doing and get inspired,” says Ekaterina.

    Now the girls continue to work on their research and are preparing to present new results at the upcoming conference – “Nevskaya Photonics”.

    Congratulations to the girls and we wish them success!

    Material prepared by: Yulia Dankova, NSU press service

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Transport – Supply chain partners face significant fines if they contribute to speeding, fatigue or overloading by truck drivers

    Source: Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand

    The national road freight association, Transporting New Zealand, is calling on all parties across the supply chain to play their part in preventing speeding, breach of work time rules and overladen trucks.
    Transporting New Zealand has launched a set of resources raising awareness about the “Chain of Responsibility” provisions in the Land Transport Act, that can result in serious fines for those who influence truck drivers to breach transport rules.
    Transporting New Zealand Chief Executive Dom Kalasih says that it isn’t just truck drivers with road safety responsibilities.
    “If your conduct contributes to truck drivers exceeding speed limits, breaching work time rules, or operating overweight vehicles, you can be liable for a fine of up to $25,000 under the Land Transport Act.”
    “This is relevant to everyone from transport company directors, cargo owners, processors, and ports. All those supply chain parties whose instructions, expectations and facilities can contribute to non-compliance.”
    “While it is ultimately the responsibility of truck drivers and road freight businesses to ensure they are operating safely and compliantly, the Chain of Responsibility provisions recognise that other parties are often in a position of power when it comes to getting freight delivered.”
    “Transporting New Zealand has always maintained a zero-tolerance policy towards deliberate non-compliance by transport operators, and that remains unchanged.”
    Kalasih says he hopes that the Chain of Responsibility resources will encourage conversations between transporters, their clients, and transport facilities like processing plants and ports.
    “Issues that really put road freight companies under pressure include last minute timing and delivery changes, unrealistic ultimatums from supply chain partners, and a lack of weighing facilities or parking facilities.”
    Kalasih would like to see supply chain partners have clear chain of responsibility policies, and increased use of written contracts with appropriate protections for transporters.
    “If all parties across the supply chain play their part, it puts truck drivers and road freight companies in the best position to deliver the freight task safely and efficiently.”
    Chain of Responsibility Resources
    Chain of Responsibility Posters can be downloaded here.
    The NZTA Chain of Responsibility Fact Sheet is available here.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Taisugar Gas Stations Mid-Year Giveaway (July 15 to August 5),Fuel Up and Strengthen Your Joints!

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    To thank customers for their longstanding and continued support, Taisugar Gas Stations are launching the “Fuel Up for Strength” mid-year appreciation campaign. From July 15 to August 5, customers who refuel 30 liters of gasoline or 50 liters of diesel (for both general customers and members) at any Taisugar Gas Station nationwide will receive one bottle of Taisugar Glucosamine Plus. The more you refuel, the more you receive-don’t miss the chance to give your car a full tank and give your body a boost!

    According to Taisugar, this year’s event combines fuel service with health promotion, not only as a token of appreciation for long-term customer loyalty but also to highlight the company’s commitment to driving safety and public well-being. For over 20 years, Taisugar Gas Stations have used premium CPC fuel, rigorously maintaining fuel quality through regular sediment removal, filter replacement, moisture and octane testing, and volume calibration to ensure clean and stable fuel for a smooth, safe journey.

    Beyond refueling services, Taisugar Gas Stations are closely connected with everyday life. In support of the net-zero emissions policy, Taisugar has actively expanded its electric vehicle infrastructure, including installing EV charging stations and 69 electric scooter battery swap stations, encouraging the public to embrace low-carbon transportation. Stations also offer a selection of Taisugar household products for added convenience and have upgraded to accept a range of mobile payment systems, including CPC Pay, LINE Pay, iPASS MONEY, JKO Pay, PX Pay Plus, and Taiwan Pay, to meet the diverse needs of modern consumers.

    This campaign’s featured gift, Taisugar Glucosamine Plus, is a health supplement developed by Taisugar’s Biotechnology Division. It contains chondroitin, collagen, and other essential nutrients, enhanced with a proprietary calcium delivery technology. Free of preservatives, artificial coloring, and Western pharmaceuticals, it offers a refreshing fruity taste and high bioavailability in liquid form, supporting joint flexibility and everyday mobility with zero burden on the body. With this special campaign, customers can fuel up their vehicles and energize their joints, making every trip safer and more powerful. Don’t miss out-visit your nearest Taisugar Gas Station and enjoy this limited-time mid-year bonus!

    TSC News Contact Person:
    Lin Hsin-Chih
    Petroleum Business Devision, TSC
    Contact Number: 886-6-632-8703 #802 / 886-939-919-530
    Email:a62462@taisugar.com.tw

    Tai Chih-Mou
    Petroleum Business Devision, TSC
    Contact Number: 886-6-632-8703 #101 / 886-988-721-867
    Email:a63425@taisugar.com.tw

    Petroleum Business Devision Customer Services Phone: 886-6-632-8703 #786 or 788

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Xi Jinping: Since the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and the EU 50 years ago, fruitful results have been achieved in cooperation and exchanges, benefiting the whole world

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    Xinhua | 24.07.2025

    Keywords: China

    Source: Xinhua

    Xi Jinping: Since the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and the EU 50 years ago, fruitful results have been achieved in cooperation and exchanges, benefiting the world Xi Jinping: Since the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and the EU 50 years ago, fruitful results have been achieved in cooperation and exchanges, benefiting the world

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: In China, 253 million people are covered by maternity insurance

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    BEIJING, July 24 (Xinhua) — A total of 253 million Chinese are covered by the maternity insurance system as of June 2025, with the total expenditure of the insurance fund reaching 438.3 billion yuan (about 61.4 billion U.S. dollars), Zhang Ke, head of the National Medical Security Administration, said Thursday. -0-

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China calls for opposing unilateral tariffs, defending multilateral trading system

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    GENEVA, July 24 (Xinhua) — China called for opposing unilateral tariff actions and protecting the multilateral trading system at a meeting of the World Trade Organization (WTO) General Council that concluded here on Wednesday.

    In a statement presented at the meeting, the country’s delegation noted that global trade turbulence is intensifying, uncertainty is growing and risks of fragmentation are increasing.

    New unilateral tariffs have continued to emerge in recent months, and the volume of trade affected by restrictive measures has reached US$2.7 trillion, the highest level since records began in 2009, the delegation said. Against this backdrop, China called on WTO members to strengthen solidarity and cooperation and better support the multilateral trading system.

    The delegation stressed that bilateral agreements or similar measures taken by individual members of the organization to ease trade tensions must be consistent with WTO rules.

    The PRC representatives also proposed that the WTO Secretariat strengthen the monitoring and analysis of unilateral measures and bilateral agreements and promptly inform the organization’s members of their impact, especially the potential negative spillover effects on third parties.

    Brazil, the European Union, Australia, New Zealand, Russia, Venezuela and other WTO members said at the meeting that escalating trade turbulence is not in the common interest. Unilateral tariff measures undermine the foundation of multilateral rules, significantly increase costs for businesses and consumers, and severely impede economic growth and social development in vulnerable developing WTO members, they said.

    Given the current circumstances, preserving the multilateral trading system has become more critical than ever, they stressed. –0–

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: At least four killed in fire in Baghdad

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    BAGHDAD, July 24 (Xinhua) — A fire broke out in a residential building in eastern Baghdad on Wednesday, killing at least four people and seriously injuring two others, an Iraqi Interior Ministry source told Xinhua on condition of anonymity.

    According to him, the incident took place in the Al-Amin quarter. Due to the heat and severe overload, an electrical transformer caught fire, and the flames quickly spread to a nearby residential building.

    Civil defense personnel arrived at the scene to extinguish the fire, the source said.

    A few days ago, a major fire at a hypermarket in Kut, the capital of Wasit province in eastern Iraq, claimed the lives of at least 61 people.

    Fires have become more frequent in Iraq recently, with many parts of the country experiencing sweltering heat, reaching 50 degrees Celsius. –0–

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Xi Jinping calls on China, EU to bring greater stability and certainty to the world through stable and healthy bilateral relations

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    Xinhua | 24.07.2025

    Keywords: China

    Source: Xinhua

    Xi Jinping calls on China, EU to bring more stability and certainty to the world through stable and healthy bilateral relations Xi Jinping calls on China, EU to bring more stability and certainty to the world through stable and healthy bilateral relations

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New Zealand joins fight against cybercrime

    Source: New Zealand Government

    New Zealanders will be better protected from cybercrime following legislation passing third reading in Parliament today, Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith says. 

    “11 per cent of New Zealanders were victims of fraud and cybercrime in 2024, and the National Cyber Security Centre estimates $1.6 billion was lost to online threats.

    “The emotional and financial harm caused by cybercrime is significant, and such a quickly evolving threat warrants a coordinated response.

    “The Budapest Convention, also known as the Council of Europe Convention on Cybercrime, is the only binding international treaty on cybercrime. 

    “It aligns member countries’ laws and makes it easier for them to cooperate on criminal investigations.

    “By joining the convention, we are signalling to the other like-minded countries that we take cybercrime seriously and we are prepared to do our part to eliminate it.

    “It will help our law enforcement agencies to protect New Zealanders, by providing the tools they need to detect, investigate, and prosecute criminal offending, even when it happens online.”

    The Bill contains provisions to ensure our domestic laws meet the requirements of the Convention. These include;

    • New ‘preservation directions’ in the Search and Surveillance Act, to enable law enforcement agencies to require companies to preserve records that could be evidence of offending.
    • Amendments to the Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters Act to enhance our ability to seek assistance from foreign countries for criminal investigations, and to provide assistance in return.

    Minor amendments to the Crimes Act to ensure offences related to cybercrime and the use of computers are comprehensive and fully align with the Convention.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HK fencer bags gold medal

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Culture, Sports & Tourism Rosanna Law today congratulated Hong Kong’s Ryan Choi on winning a gold medal in the Men’s Foil Individual event at the 2025 Fencing World Championships.

     

    Miss Law lauded the 27-year-old foil fencer for delivering an impressive performance in the competition, demonstrating Hong Kong athletes’ charm and perseverance.

     

    “We are thrilled by his achievement in winning Hong Kong’s first ever gold medal in the Fencing World Championships.

     

    “I hope the Hong Kong China fencing team will continue to strive for excellence. I have faith in them to perform spectacularly again in the 15th National Games to be held in November.”

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Australia says US beef will soon be welcome here again. It’s unlikely we’ll buy much of it

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Felicity Deane, Professor of Trade Law and Taxation, Queensland University of Technology

    DarcyMaulsby/Getty

    The Albanese government has today confirmed it will lift biosecurity restrictions on beef imports from the United States. The timing of this decision has raised some eyebrows.

    Back in April, US President Donald Trump had singled out what he characterised as an Australian “ban” on US beef as he announced 10% baseline tariffs on imports from Australia.

    Responding to today’s announcement, Nationals leader David Littleproud said it appeared the restrictions have been “traded away to appease Donald Trump”.

    But Trade Minister Don Farrell said there was “nothing suspicious about this”. And some Australian industry groups have since expressed their confidence in the decision.

    So, has Australia’s beef industry been sold out for the benefit of a trade deal? Or is it just a poorly timed announcement at the end of a review into Australia’s restrictions?

    Biosecurity concerns

    Australia’s biosecurity rules, particularly around beef products, have long been a source of friction with the United States. These rules date back to the late 1990s and were strengthened following a US mad cow disease scare in 2003.

    In 2019, a ban was lifted on beef products from cattle that had been born, raised and slaughtered in the US. However, a ban remained on any products from cattle originating in Mexico or Canada that had been slaughtered in the US.

    This was a cause for some tension, because the traceability requirements in the US were not as stringent as in Australia. That meant it wasn’t always possible to determine the origins of US products. So the 2019 change effectively only applied to shelf-stable products – not fresh meat.

    Last month, the Albanese government made assurances Australia’s biosecurity rules wouldn’t be compromised in trade negotiations. But it also confirmed a review of the rules was underway.

    The National Farmers’ Federation acknowledged the government’s decision in a statement today:

    The report released today is the result of a long-standing, science-based review by the Australian Government into the biosecurity risks posed by cattle raised in Canada and Mexico, but processed in and exported from the US.

    Speaking on ABC Radio, Cattle Australia chief executive Will Evans acknowledged “a lot of people” may feel “blindsided” by the government’s decision, but expressed his confidence in the government’s process.

    Boom times for Australian beef

    Australians are some of the highest per-capita consumers of beef products in the world. But Australia is also the world’s second-largest beef exporter, trailing only Brazil.

    In contrast, the US is the world’s second-largest importer of beef, behind only China.

    That poses the question: how much do we actually need beef from the US? Is it even worth lifting this ban, if it will impact so few people?

    The beef industry might be fair to question whether this is for the benefit of their industry, when it seems the existing 10% baseline tariffs have had no impact on the volumes of beef being exported from Australia. Quite the opposite.

    In June, Australia’s beef exports broke an all-time monthly record, and the US continued to be our largest export market.

    In addition, it is important to recognise the US tariffs on beef would theoretically be absorbed by the consumer, rather than the exporter.

    The trade war rages on

    Theory suggests that international trade is a good thing (though not everyone is a “winner”). Where there is trade between nations, competitive pricing is encouraged and consumers may enjoy more product variety.

    Most restrictions on trade are viewed unfavourably by economists, but there are some notable exceptions. The health and safety of food products and assurance of biosecurity standards are such concerns.

    Overnight, comments from the Trump administration suggest the 10% tariffs on imports from Australia could be raised, with a new baseline tariff rate of 15%.

    To apply these to Australian beef is in direct conflict with the Australia and United States Free Trade Agreement (AUSFTA). This agreement progressively removed tariffs on Australian beef, with all tariffs eliminated by 2023.

    Consequently, any new US tariff would violate these terms, threatening a trade relationship that has seen beef exports to the US flourish.

    Is our reputation on the line?

    It is important to note that the biosecurity rules in Australia and the traceability requirements for our producers are a point of national pride.

    Central to Australia’s biosecurity framework is the Biosecurity Act 2015 and the National Livestock Identification System, which ensures traceability, food safety, disease control and animal welfare.

    This imposes strict requirements on Australian beef producers – and as a result, imposes costs. It also means Australian beef is considered a premium product in much of the world.

    Australians should hope the evidence from the government’s review fully supports this action.

    Given the unpredictability of the Trump administration, it remains to be seen whether lifting these restrictions will win Australia any concessions on trade anyway.

    Felicity Deane does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Australia says US beef will soon be welcome here again. It’s unlikely we’ll buy much of it – https://theconversation.com/australia-says-us-beef-will-soon-be-welcome-here-again-its-unlikely-well-buy-much-of-it-261836

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Jet ski accidents are tragic but preventable. Here’s how to reduce the risk

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Milad Haghani, Associate Professor & Principal Fellow in Urban Risk & Resilience, The University of Melbourne

    Richard Hamilton Smith/Getty

    Two teenage boys were thrown from a jet ski during a ride on the Georges River in Sydney’s south this week. One died at the scene. The other lost an arm, and was rushed to hospital in a serious condition.

    The exact cause of the crash is being investigated and a report will be prepared for the coroner.

    Sadly, this tragic incident is not isolated. While fatal jet ski crashes are relatively rare, serious injuries are not.

    Here’s what we know about jet ski accidents, who’s at risk, and how to prevent them.

    Jet skis are now more common

    Jet skis have become a familiar sight on Australian waterways, with sales peaking during the early years of the COVID pandemic. There are now almost 100,000 registered jet skis nationwide.

    So what was once a niche summer thrill has become a more mainstream recreational activity, particularly for young Australians.

    As the number of jet skis on our waterways grows, so too will the risks.

    How often do accidents happen?

    Most jet ski crashes occur in daylight hours, are twice as likely on weekends, and tend to spike during warmer months. Injuries typically happen close to shore (often within 50 metres) where crowded conditions increase the risk of colliding with other vessels, swimmers or fixed obstacles.

    Fatal jet ski accidents in Australia have claimed the lives of riders, passengers, swimmers and kayakers.

    Across New South Wales, Queensland and Victoria, there are up to three deaths per 100,000 licence holders. There are an estimated 19–26 serious injuries per 100,000 licence holders, depending on the state.

    But these figures likely understate the true picture as many non-fatal injuries go unreported unless hospitalised.

    For example, data from research sponsored by the United States Coast Guard suggest that for every moderate injury captured in accident reports, more than 30 actually occur. For every severe injury, it’s likely 1.65 actually occur.

    Who is at risk?

    Global jet ski statistics indicate about 85% of jet ski injuries involve male riders.

    Risk-taking behaviour and being an inexperienced rider are also risk factors, with young adults dominating injury statistics.

    One review found about 60% of jet ski crashes involved the rider drinking alcohol.

    What types of injuries?

    Recreational riders often typically travel at 60–80 kilometres per hour. But these machines can reach speeds above 100km/h. This can generate immense force in the event of a collision.

    In a crash, riders are ejected from the jet ski or collide directly with water, the craft, another vessel or fixed objects. So the leading causes of death and serious injury on jet skis are from these traumatic impacts.

    A study from a US trauma centre looked at 127 people injured in jet ski incidents and found most injuries involved broken bones. The legs were most commonly affected, followed by arms, spine and hips.

    Hitting the handlebars was a major cause of open fractures (when a broken bone pierces the skin), some of which later became infected.

    Women and children face particular risks

    However, there is a distinct and concerning injury pattern for female passengers.

    Women riding on the back of a jet ski (as a passenger) are especially at risk of serious injuries to the genital and anal area. This can happen if they fall off backwards and land directly on the powerful stream of water coming from the jet nozzle.

    Case reports describe incidents of vaginal lacerations, rectal injuries and pelvic floor damage. Such injuries are rare but can be devastating and life-threatening. Sometimes there are permanent complications, such as the risk of infertility or incontinence.

    Children also face unique and often severe risks. A US study looked at 66 children hospitalised in jet ski accidents. It found most were boys with the average age of around 12 years old, and nearly three-quarters operated the jet ski themselves. About 70% of injuries involved collisions with another vessel or object. Four children died, all from head trauma after crashing into stationary objects. More than 40% were left with some degree of disability.

    What now?

    The risks from jet skis are real and too often underestimated. But many injuries can be prevented:

    • we need public education campaigns to remind riders of the risks and to promote better behaviour. This would remind riders to slow down in congested areas, avoid reckless turns, and be especially careful with passengers. As alcohol is a common factor in crashes, drinking in moderation before riding should also be stressed

    • women are recommended to wear neoprene protective shorts, or wetsuits, instead of ordinary swimwear. A growing number of medical professionals are now backing this as essential safety gear, not optional, to reduce the risk of perineal injuries from water jets

    • manufacturers can redesign handlebars to reduce the severity of impact injuries. They can also build in safeguards that reduce jet pressure when no one is seated at the rear (to safeguard the health of a passenger who falls off backwards)

    • states also need consistent rules on minimum rider age, training and licensing. The laws vary widely. These inconsistent regulations create confusion and loopholes, especially when riders cross borders.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Jet ski accidents are tragic but preventable. Here’s how to reduce the risk – https://theconversation.com/jet-ski-accidents-are-tragic-but-preventable-heres-how-to-reduce-the-risk-261746

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Disease ripping through Gaza as Israel continues to deliberately block aid: Oxfam

    Source: Oxfam –

    Deadly diseases are now ripping through Gaza even as millions of dollars’ worth of humanitarian aid piles up in warehouses across the region, says Oxfam. 

    Water-borne diseases that are both preventable and readily treatable have increased by almost 150% inside Gaza over the past three months as Israel continues to deliberately block aid. 

    Available multi-agency health data shows that the numbers of Palestinians presenting to health facilities with acute watery diarrhea have increased by 150 per cent, bloody diarrhea by 302 per cent, and acute jaundice cases by 101 per cent. 

    Even these figures will be grossly under-reported because most of the two million people trapped by Israel’s continuing siege have little access to the few healthcare facilities that have managed to keep operating. 

    This surge of disease can quickly turn deadly especially as Palestinians living in Gaza have been deprived of enough food, water, shelter, and adequate healthcare for over 21 months.   Their community and family networks have been shattered, and people made more vulnerable by repeated forced mass displacements and continuing violence. 

    Israel has put Gaza under a near total blockade since March 2 of this year stopping all but a trickle of aid. There are no longer any humanitarian aid reserves held by international agencies inside of Gaza. 

    As a result, international humanitarian donors and agencies have been forced to accumulate more than 420,000 pallets of aid that now sit in limbo inside warehouses across the regions. This covers an area of around 75 hectares, or enough to cover 101 football fields. 

    “There is a grim and deliberate inevitability as to what Israel has created in Gaza. Each day that its siege continues and it denies aid, starvation becomes increasingly widespread and human deaths from entirely preventable diseases becomes an absolute certainty.” 

    Bushra Khalidi, Policy Lead

    Oxfam in the Occupied Palestinian Territory and Israel

    This aid includes shelters, food and supplements to combat malnutrition, and water equipment, sanitation items and medicines that would be vital to tackle diseases and   

    Oxfam alone has over 110,000 items of humanitarian aid in one warehouse including water bladders and tanks, hygiene, dignity and water testing kits, food parcels, soap, nappies, pipes and latrine slabs. 

    Oxfam is waiting for clearances and permissions to enter, however the Israeli authorities have recently denied water and sanitation items and food parcels. 

    Bushra Khalidi, Oxfam in the Occupied Palestinian Territory and Israel policy lead, said that time is running out to prevent an epidemic across Gaza and the mass death that would inevitably result. 

    “The conditions that Palestinians in Gaza are being forced to endure have created a petri dish for disease. These are diseases that thrive where people lack water – clean or otherwise – and are stuck in over-crowded unsanitary environments with almost no food,” Khalidi said.  

    “There is a grim and deliberate inevitability as to what Israel has created in Gaza. Each day that its siege continues and it denies aid, starvation becomes increasingly widespread and human deaths from entirely preventable diseases becomes an absolute certainty.” 

    “As Gaza bakes in the summer sun and the hottest month of the year looms, it is increasingly urgent that Israel’s siege must end. It is shameful Israel has been allowed to besiege Gaza and create this catastrophe. Nothing other than complete access to Gaza to deliver aid at scale can alleviate the conditions that people have been forced to live in.” 

    “Each day we wait for a ceasefire, more lives are lost through violence, hunger and disease. Palestinians in Gaza cannot wait a day longer for this hell to end. There must be a full and complete ceasefire, and all required aid must be able to enter via all crossings into Gaza so that Palestinians can finally begin to recover and rebuild.” 

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Why Texas Hill Country, where a devastating flood killed more than 135 people, is one of the deadliest places in the US for flash flooding

    Source: The Conversation – USA (2) – By Hatim Sharif, Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The University of Texas at San Antonio

    A Kerrville, Texas, resident watches the flooded Guadalupe River on July 4, 2025. Eric Vryn/Getty Images

    Texas Hill Country is known for its landscapes, where shallow rivers wind among hills and through rugged valleys. That geography also makes it one of the deadliest places in the U.S. for flash flooding.

    In the early hours of July 4, 2025, a flash flood swept through an area of Hill Country dotted with summer camps and small towns about 70 miles northwest of San Antonio. More than 135 people died in the flooding. The majority of them were in Kerr County, including more than two dozen girls and counselors at one summer camp, Camp Mystic. Dozens more people were still unaccounted for a week later.

    The flooding began with a heavy downpour, with more than 10 inches of rain in some areas, that sent water sheeting off the hillsides and into creeks. The creeks poured into the Guadalupe River.

    A river gauge at Hunt, Texas, near Camp Mystic, showed how quickly the river flooded: Around 3 a.m. on July 4, the Guadalupe River was rising about 1 foot every 5 minutes at the gauge, National Weather Service data shows. By 4:30 a.m., it had risen more than 20 feet. As the water moved downstream, it reached Kerrville, where the river rose even faster.

    Flood expert Hatim Sharif, a hydrologist and civil engineer at the University of Texas at San Antonio, explains what makes this part of the country, known as Flash Flood Alley, so dangerous.

    What makes Hill Country so prone to flooding?

    Texas as a whole leads the nation in flood deaths, and by a wide margin. A colleague and I analyzed data from 1959 to 2019 and found 1,069 people had died in flooding in Texas over those six decades. The next highest total was in Louisiana, with 693.

    Many of those flood deaths have been in Hill County. It’s part of an area known as Flash Flood Alley, a crescent of land that curves from near Dallas down to San Antonio and then westward.

    The hills are steep, and the water moves quickly when it floods. This is a semi-arid area with soils that don’t soak up much water, so the water sheets off quickly and the shallow creeks can rise fast.

    When those creeks converge on a river, they can create a surge of water that wipes out homes and washes away cars and, unfortunately, anyone in its path.

    Hill Country has seen some devastating flash floods. In 1987, heavy rain in western Kerr County quickly flooded the Guadalupe River, triggering a flash flood similar to the one in 2025. Ten teenagers being evacuated from a camp died in the rushing water.

    San Antonio, at the eastern edge of Hill Country, was hit with a flash flood on June 12, 2025, that killed 13 people whose cars were swept away by high water from a fast-flooding creek near an interstate ramp in the early morning.

    Why does the region get such strong downpours?

    One reason Hill Country gets powerful downpours is the Balcones Escarpment.

    The escarpment is a line of cliffs and steep hills created by a geologic fault. When warm air from the Gulf rushes up the escarpment, it condenses and can dump a lot of moisture. That water flows down the hills quickly, from many different directions, filling streams and rivers below.

    As temperature rise, the warmer atmosphere can hold more moisture, increasing the downpour and flood risk.

    A tour of the Guadalupe River and its flood risk.

    The same effect can contribute to flash flooding in San Antonio, where the large amount of paved land and lack of updated drainage to control runoff adds to the risk.

    What can be done to improve flash flood safety?

    First, it’s important for people to understand why flash flooding happens and just how fast the water can rise and flow. In many arid areas, dry or shallow creeks can quickly fill up with fast-moving water and become deadly. So people should be aware of the risks and pay attention to the weather.

    Improving flood forecasting, with more detailed models of the physics and water velocity at different locations, can also help.

    Probabilistic forecasting, for example, can provide a range of rainfall scenarios, enabling authorities to prepare for worst-case scenarios. A scientific framework linking rainfall forecasts to the local impacts, such as streamflow, flood depth and water velocity, could also help decision-makers implement timely evacuations or road closures.

    Education is particularly essential for drivers. One to two feet of moving water can wash away a car. People may think their trucks and SUVs can go through anything, but fast-moving water can flip a truck and carry it away.

    Officials can also do more to barricade roads when the flood risk is high to prevent people from driving into harm’s way. We found that 58% of the flood deaths in Texas over the past six decades involved vehicles. The storm on June 12 in San Antonio was an example. It was early morning, and drivers had poor visibility. The cars were hit by fast-rising floodwater from an adjacent creek.

    This article, originally published July 5, 2025, has been updated with the death toll rising.

    Hatim Sharif does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Why Texas Hill Country, where a devastating flood killed more than 135 people, is one of the deadliest places in the US for flash flooding – https://theconversation.com/why-texas-hill-country-where-a-devastating-flood-killed-more-than-135-people-is-one-of-the-deadliest-places-in-the-us-for-flash-flooding-260555

    MIL OSI –

  • India’s global outreach continues: PM Modi begins UK visit, Maldives next

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (2)

    rime Minister Narendra Modi will embark on a two-nation tour on Wednesday, visiting the United Kingdom and the Maldives from July 23 to 26, aiming to strengthen India’s global diplomatic engagements.

    At the invitation of UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Prime Minister Modi will undertake an official visit to the United Kingdom from July 23 to 24. This will be his fourth visit to the UK, reflecting the growing warmth and depth of the bilateral relationship.

    India and the United Kingdom share historical ties that have evolved into a robust and mutually beneficial partnership. A major milestone in the relationship was achieved during the India-UK virtual summit on 4 May 2021, when Prime Minister Modi and then UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson established a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and adopted an ambitious India-UK Roadmap 2030. This roadmap continues to steer cooperation across various sectors including trade, security, education, technology, and climate change.

    The visit also comes in the wake of the recent general elections in the UK held on 4 July 2024, where the Labour Party returned to power after 14 years, winning 412 out of 650 seats. Keir Starmer assumed office as Prime Minister, and PM Modi extended his congratulations during a telephonic conversation on 6 July, also inviting him for an early visit to India.

    In its election manifesto, the Labour Party pledged to pursue a new strategic partnership with India, focusing on the conclusion of a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and deepening cooperation in critical sectors. The two leaders had earlier met on the sidelines of the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Brazil in November 2024 and briefly interacted again during the G7 Summit in Canada in June 2025.

    Following the terrorist attack in Pahalgam in April 2025, Prime Minister Starmer had spoken to PM Modi to convey his condolences and support. On 6 May 2025, both leaders held a telephonic conversation and announced the successful conclusion of the India-UK FTA and the Double Taxation Avoidance Convention, marking a historic development in bilateral ties.

    High-level exchanges have been a consistent feature of India-UK relations. President Droupadi Murmu visited London in September 2022 to attend the State Funeral of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and met King Charles III during her visit. Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar represented India at the Coronation of King Charles III in May 2023 and engaged with global leaders during his visit. He also addressed members of the Indian community and interacted with Indian-origin UK MPs and students.

    Prime Minister Modi had earlier met former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on multiple occasions, including during the G20 Summit in India in September 2023 and at the G7 Summit in Italy in June 2024. Their discussions covered progress on the India-UK FTA and other key areas under the Roadmap 2030. Sunak’s official visit to India in 2023 and bilateral engagements in Japan and Bali further contributed to the growing momentum in the relationship. Notably, the Young Professionals Scheme was launched following their meeting in Bali in 2022, enhancing mobility for youth between the two countries.

    In April 2022, then UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson visited India and held wide-ranging discussions with PM Modi. The visit saw the announcement of an ‘Open General Export Licence’ for Indian companies and the signing of MoUs in nuclear energy and global innovation, along with a joint statement on cyber cooperation.

    Earlier, in November 2021, Prime Minister Modi had visited the UK to attend the COP26 World Leaders’ Summit in Glasgow, where he and Prime Minister Boris Johnson jointly launched the One Sun, One World, One Grid (OSOWOG) initiative under the International Solar Alliance and the Infrastructure for Resilient Island States (IRIS) initiative under the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure.

    Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla visited the UK in January 2025 and held bilateral talks with the Speaker of the House of Commons, Lindsay Hoyle, underscoring the strong parliamentary ties between the two democracies.

  • Indian diaspora in London gives PM Modi a grand welcome

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a rousing welcome from the Indian diaspora as he arrived in London on Wednesday evening for a historic two-day visit aimed at strengthening the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and finalising the long-anticipated Free Trade Agreement (FTA).

    As PM Modi reached his hotel in the heart of the city, hundreds of Indian community members gathered outside with chants of “Modi, Modi,” “Bharat Mata Ki Jai,” and “Vande Mataram.” Dressed in traditional Indian attire, artists played dhols while others danced and waved posters welcoming the Prime Minister.

    “Touched by the warm welcome from the Indian community in the UK. Their affection and passion towards India’s progress is truly heartening,” PM Modi shared on X.

    The atmosphere outside the hotel was electric, with many attendees expressing pride and emotion after meeting the Prime Minister. “We are so proud… I am still in tears. The happiness and joy he brought while shaking our hands is unforgettable,” said one member of the diaspora.

    Many in the crowd shared similar sentiments, praising the Prime Minister for his global stature, leadership, and commitment to India’s growth. “The aura I witnessed was simply amazing. He looked like a saint. That is why people like PM Modi a lot,” said another enthusiastic supporter.

    Scheduled for July 23–24, PM Modi’s visit comes at the invitation of newly elected British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and marks his fourth official trip to the United Kingdom. The visit follows recent meetings between the two leaders at the G20 Summit in Brazil and the G7 in June this year.

    “Leaving for the UK, a country with which our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership has achieved significant momentum in the last few years. I look forward to my talks with PM Keir Starmer and my meeting with His Majesty King Charles III,” PM Modi posted before departing.

    According to a statement from India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the visit will focus on advancing collaboration across key areas such as trade and economy, technology and innovation, defence and security, climate change, healthcare, education, and people-to-people ties.

    The centrepiece of the discussions will be the signing of the India-UK Free Trade Agreement, expected to significantly boost bilateral trade

    PM Modi is also expected to meet King Charles III during his stay in London, further deepening the diplomatic warmth between the two nations.

    (With agencies inputs)