NewzIntel.com

Category: AM-NC

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Morocco, North Macedonia Bolster Cooperation in Diplomatic Training and Tourism

    Source: APO


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    Morocco and North Macedonia have taken a new step in strengthening their bilateral cooperation, as they signed two Memorandums of Understanding on Monday in Skopje, aimed at further expanding and structuring their sectoral partnership.

    These legal instruments were signed as part of a working visit carried out by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates, Mr. Nasser Bourita, to Skopje, where he held talks with North Macedonia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Mr. Timčo Mucunski.

    The two parties welcomed the ongoing strengthened bilateral legal framework in specific areas of common interest, which reflect their shared will to establish cooperation between both countries on a long-term basis.

    The diplomatic training agreement serves as the benchmark framework for cooperation activities carried out between the two countries’ foreign ministries, based on the principles of reciprocity and mutual benefit.

    It aims to encourage joint training programs, holding inaugural lectures or high-level interventions as part of official visits by eminent personalities from both countries, as well as the exchange of information, best practices, experiences, and analyses related to developments in diplomatic training.

    Meanwhile, the tourism agreement will serve as a lever for bilateral cooperation by promoting the exchange of expertise, the mutual promotion and enhancement of destinations, the strengthening of institutional capacities, and coordinated participation in investment initiatives and specialized trade fairs.

    This framework will enhance the visibility of both countries’ tourism offerings across regional and international markets.

    These agreements fall within the renewed dynamic of the partnership between Rabat and Skopje and reflect the desire of the two countries to expand their cooperation into high value-added sectors, in line with their respective national priorities and their regional and multilateral commitments.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Kingdom of Morocco – Ministry of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Morocco: His Majesty the King Congratulates Belgian King Philippe, Queen Mathilde on National Day

    Source: APO


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    His Majesty King Mohammed VI sent a message of congratulations to His Majesty King Philippe of the Belgians and Her Majesty Queen Mathilde on the occasion of their country’s national day.

    In this message, His Majesty the King extends His heartfelt congratulations to the Belgian Sovereigns and their family, along with His warmest hopes for happiness and prosperity of the Belgian people.

    “Rest assured, Your Majesties, of the esteem I hold for the deep bonds of friendship that unite Morocco and Belgium,” the Sovereign states in the message.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Kingdom of Morocco – Ministry of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) Hydrocarbons Ministry to Lead High-Level Delegation at United States (U.S.)-Africa Energy Forum (USAEF) 2025

    Source: APO

    The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is intensifying its focus on upstream development and strategic U.S. partnerships ahead of the U.S.-Africa Energy Forum (USAEF) 2025 (www.USAfricaEnergy.com) taking place on August 6-7 in Houston. Leading the effort is a senior delegation from the Ministry of Hydrocarbons, delivering a clear message: the DRC is open for investment, with exploration and downstream development as top priorities. 

    As part of its hydrocarbons roadmap, the DRC is seeking partners to bring capital, technology, and expertise into its exploration efforts, with a focus on high-potential onshore and offshore blocks. Many of these basins – including the Cuvette Centrale and Coastal regions – remain underexplored. While the DRC currently produces around 18,000 barrels per day (bpd), the Ministry of Hydrocarbons is targeting a major production scale-up to 300,000 bpd. This growth is expected to be driven by new offshore discoveries and a forthcoming petroleum code designed to clarify investor terms and enable joint development ventures. 

    The Ministry is also seeking to engage U.S.-based downstream and petrochemicals companies as part of a broader push to expand value-added processing and strengthen domestic energy infrastructure. USAEF 2025 offers a key platform for direct dialogue with U.S. investors, paving the way for new deals, technical partnerships and cross-regional energy trade. Current initiatives include the development of a new oil terminal in Goma to stabilize fuel supply in the east, along with upgrades to fuel storage and distribution networks nationwide. These projects create strong opportunities for U.S. engineering, technology and EPC firms to support infrastructure modernization, modular refining and local capacity-building. 

    Under efforts to foster new technical partnerships and attract capital investment, the Ministry will hold meetings at USAEF 2025 with upstream operators, seismic and drilling service providers, and petrochemical firms interested in entering or expanding in the Congolese market. The DRC is positioning itself as a strategic partner for American energy companies seeking access to a frontier market with significant geological potential, a reform-minded government and growing regional demand for refined products and petrochemicals. 

    For tickets, sponsorship opportunities and more information, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com or visit www.USAfricaEnergy.com. Join us in Houston to connect with the leaders shaping Africa’s energy landscape and experience the momentum that drives ECP’s events worldwide. 

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

    Media files

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    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Students’ Summer Work Program in Central Region

    Source: APO


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    Coordinators of the students’ summer work program in the Central Region reported that the 8,600 participants of the program, including 40% female students, are conducting commendable water and soil conservation activities.

    Mr. Efrem Teklu, head of the students’ summer work program for development, indicated that since the program began on 7 July, approximately 14,000 terraces have been constructed, around 36,000 holes have been prepared for planting tree seedlings, and over 15,000 trees have been cultivated.

    He also stated that 95% of the program participants are engaged in water and soil conservation, while the remaining 5% are involved in traffic safety, documentation, and other activities.

    The students’ summer work program will continue until 16 August.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • UAE Dispatches Largest Humanitarian Aid Ship to Gaza Amid Deepening Crisis

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The United Arab Emirates has dispatched its largest humanitarian aid ship to Gaza as part of its intensified relief campaign for the embattled region. Departing from Khalifa Port in Abu Dhabi on Monday, the vessel, named the Khalifa Humanitarian Air Ship, is carrying 7,166 tonnes of essential supplies, including food, medical equipment, clean water, and materials for temporary shelter.

    The mission is a major component of the UAE’s ongoing Operation Gallant Knight 3, a comprehensive initiative that has previously delivered assistance via airlifts and land convoys. This maritime shipment marks the country’s largest sea-based aid delivery to date, reinforcing the UAE’s growing role in regional humanitarian efforts. The cargo includes urgently needed medical supplies to alleviate shortages in Gaza’s hospitals, non-perishable food items to combat rising hunger, and shelter materials for families displaced by conflict.

    The ship is bound for Egypt’s Al-Arish port, where its cargo will be offloaded and transported to Gaza through coordinated efforts involving regional authorities and international humanitarian agencies, including the United Nations. These collaborations aim to ensure efficient and equitable distribution to areas most affected by the crisis, where residents face acute food insecurity, limited access to clean water, and overburdened healthcare infrastructure.

    The aid initiative comes amid deteriorating conditions in Gaza, where sustained conflict and economic hardship have severely limited access to basic necessities. International aid organizations have welcomed the UAE’s proactive approach, emphasizing the potential of the latest shipment to bring immediate relief to thousands of families.

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: RrOBO: World first demonstrates the future of nuclear clean-up is in safe hands

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    RrOBO: World first demonstrates the future of nuclear clean-up is in safe hands

    A team of robotics specialists have achieved a world first by fitting and operating a robotic arm inside an active nuclear glovebox at Sellafield.

    A world first demonstration of a robotic arm being operated inside a glovebox at Sellafield Ltd

    A key challenge at Sellafield is how to safely clean up and dispose of hundreds of redundant nuclear gloveboxes built up over decades of pioneering nuclear work.

    Some are up to 60 years old and in difficult to access places. They can still house contaminated pipework, cables, or sharp objects, and present a hazard to workers and the environment.

    But a breakthrough demonstration project at the site has proven that a robotic arm can be safely retrofitted to a nuclear glovebox and help remove the risk to operators.

    The Risk Reduction of Glovebox Operations (RrOBO) project is a partnership between Sellafield Ltd and AtkinsRéalis, in collaboration with Cavendish Nuclear and Taylor Kightley Engineering.

    It’s what’s known as an Active Demonstrator Project, where Sellafield Ltd identifies key clean up challenges and then collaborates with suppliers to design, test, install and demonstrate potential technological solutions.

    At its heart is the AtkinsRéalis Remote Glovebox Operations (ARGO) system that can be inserted into an existing glovebox and controlled remotely and safely by operators.

    After months of design work and off-site testing, the system was deployed into 2 gloveboxes at Sellafield’s MOX Active Demonstration Facility.

    While engineers operated the robotic system, operators provided critical interface support and feedback, ensuring learning was maximized to inform future developments.

    As a result, they proved the robot could successfully carry out a complex series of precise glovebox tasks while maintaining full containment integrity.

    This means it can now be deployed on other legacy gloveboxes at Sellafield to expand its range of uses and help accelerate decommissioning work across the site and other Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA) group sites.

    Nicholas Clarke, Sellafield Ltd’s remediation technology and innovation lead said:

    RrOBO has delivered outstanding results, completing months ahead of schedule and significantly under budget.

    It demonstrates the viability of robotic glovebox operations and shows what we can achieve when we enable our teams to collaborate, think freely and innovate together.

    And we’ve gained valuable insight into how this technology can be scaled up to support the wider Sellafield mission and help other nuclear sites across the UK and globally.

    Robert Marwood, AtkinsRéalis’ head of robotics and technology, said:

    Removing hands from gloveboxes is a key challenge for the nuclear industry and we’re proud to be helping to drive change and improve safety.

    This collaboration is a great demonstration of how solutions from other industries can be integrated into the nuclear sector in a lean and agile manner.

    By driving innovation, we can make nuclear operations safer and more efficient.

    Kate Canning, head of research and development at the NDA, said:

    RrOBO is a fantastic example of using robotic technologies to reduce risks, eliminate manual handling hazards and enhance efficiency.

    The demonstrator project has shown the real potential of the technology to be transferred more widely across NDA group.

    Further reading

    Nuclear gloveboxes case study

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Summer of good initiatives

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    In the summer, the corridors of the Polytechnic University are empty, but the Dobro.Center “Harmony” continues to unite students, teachers, partners and all those who are not indifferent for good deeds.

    The Polytechnic regularly collects humanitarian aid at the university headquarters

    On June 15, Medical Worker’s Day, curators of military hospitals of St. Petersburg met. The event was organized by the “For Friends” community. Polytechnic was represented by the responsible curator of the military hospital 122 MSC Tatyana Nam and a volunteer of the university headquarters

    On June 21, children from Mariupol arrived for summer vacation in Zelenogorsk. Volunteers of “Harmony”, who are part of the regional headquarters

    On June 25, at the Family and Children Assistance Center of the Kalininsky District of St. Petersburg, SPbPU volunteers together with students of the Higher School of Linguistics and Pedagogy of the Humanitarian Institute held a training program with elements of art therapy for children aged 7-12. The event became part of the positive leisure camp “LetoVmeste”.

    In addition, in June, a concert was held at Clinical Hospital No. 122 for military personnel dedicated to Russian Language Day. Kirill Grishin read poems by classic Russian poets. Maria Guner shared her original poems and fascinating stories about the classics of Russian culture and literature. Vera Ugai performed heartfelt songs about the Motherland, love, hope and dream. Tatyana Nam told stories about great polytechnicians. Konstantin Zakharov concluded the concert with songs to the guitar. According to tradition, volunteers visited the wards, presented gifts and treats to patients.

    On June 26, the Polytechnicians performed vocal compositions at the General Surgery Clinic of the Kirov Military Medical Academy. The concert was supplemented by numbers by the soloist of the chapel Ilya Zavatsky and the string quartet of the Troitsky Cultural Center.

    On June 27, a concert was held at the hospital of the North-West District Scientific and Clinical Center named after L. G. Sokolov featuring a female vocal quartet and theater and film actor Oleg Kharitonov. In conclusion, all those gathered sang the song “I love you, life!” Volunteers talked to patients and presented gifts. The servicemen asked to bring books if possible, and to organize “home tournaments” in backgammon and board games at the hospital.

    Harmony has new challenges, big projects and inspiring stories ahead.

    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.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: German companies pledge to invest €631bn to boost economic confidence

    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

    BERLIN, July 22 (Xinhua) — More than 60 leading German companies, including Siemens and Deutsche Bank, pledged on Monday to invest 631 billion euros (735 billion U.S. dollars) in the country by 2028 as part of a joint effort to restore investor confidence, German newspaper Handelsblatt reported.

    The initiative, called “Made for Germany,” will be formally presented to German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil later on Monday. It includes capital expenditure, research and development costs, and commitments from international investors.

    The announcement comes as Germany seeks to reverse sluggish economic growth and attract private capital, helped in part by recent changes in fiscal policy and the creation of a special fund for infrastructure investment.

    High energy prices and structural problems are reducing the competitiveness of Germany’s industry, prompting growing calls for deeper reforms.

    “We need political courage for structural change, and decisive steps must follow,” Siemens CEO Roland Busch told the Handelsblatt newspaper. “But we also need companies that believe in Germany and are willing to invest. All this must come together quickly to gain momentum.”

    Companies involved in the initiative plan to lobby the government for faster approval procedures for infrastructure projects and tougher measures to address labor shortages, he added. –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.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Information about using the SolidPAY mobile application

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Solid Bank – Solid Bank –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Dear customers!

    On the side of the SolidPay mobile application vendor, there are problems with access to the personal account for clients who own Android devices.

    We will inform you about the resumption of the service in a separate letter.

    Login to your personal account on iOS is available in the usual mode, as well as access to Internet banking in the web version from the bank’s website.

    We apologize and ask you to take this information into account.

    Share the news on social networks

    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.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Monetary Authority takes disciplinary actions against three banks for contraventions of Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing Ordinance

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority:

    The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) announced today (July 22) that it had completed investigations and disciplinary proceedings under the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing Ordinance (Chapter 615 of the Laws of Hong Kong) (AMLO) in relation to three banks: Indian Overseas Bank, Hong Kong Branch (IOBHK), Bank of Communications (Hong Kong) Limited (BCOM(HK)) and Bank of Communications Co., Ltd., Hong Kong Branch (BCOM Hong Kong Branch).

    The Monetary Authority (MA) has: (i) reprimanded IOBHK; (ii) ordered IOBHK to conduct a look-back review of past transactions, and develop and implement a remedial plan to address the contraventions; and (iii) imposed a pecuniary penalty of HK$8,500,000 on IOBHK. Separately, the MA has imposed pecuniary penalties of HK$4,000,000 on BCOM(HK) and HK$3,700,000 on BCOM Hong Kong Branch. Details of the disciplinary actions against each of the three banks are set out in the respective Statements of Disciplinary Action attached.

    The disciplinary actions (Note) follow investigations by the HKMA into the banks’ systems and controls for compliance with the AMLO. The control deficiencies identified related to failures to establish and maintain effective procedures for continuously monitoring business relationships with customers. 

    There were significant deficiencies in IOBHK’s transaction monitoring mechanism and management oversight of the bank’s anti-money laundering and counter-financing of terrorism (AML/CFT) controls.

    The contraventions of BCOM(HK) and BCOM Hong Kong Branch arose from omissions to load certain types of transactions into the transaction monitoring system shared by the two banks, undermining the system’s effectiveness in identifying potentially suspicious activities.

    In deciding the disciplinary actions, the MA has taken into account the relevant circumstances and factors, including:
     

    1. the seriousness of the investigation findings; 
    2. the need to send a clear deterrent message to the three banks and the industry about the importance of having effective controls and procedures to address money laundering and terrorist financing risks; 
    3. where applicable, the remedial measures taken by the banks to address the deficiencies identified; and 
    4. the three banks have no previous disciplinary record in relation to the AMLO and co-operated with the HKMA during the investigations and enforcement proceedings.

    The Executive Director (Enforcement and AML) of the HKMA, Mr Raymond Chan, said, “Effective transaction monitoring enables timely identification and reporting of suspicious transactions and thus is an essential component of banks’ AML/CFT controls. Bank management should ensure that proper transaction monitoring systems and processes are in place and any identified deficiencies are addressed promptly.”

    Relevant links:
    Statement of Disciplinary Action (IOBHK)
    Statement of Disciplinary Action (BCOM(HK))
    Statement of Disciplinary Action (BCOM Hong Kong Branch)

    Note: The disciplinary actions are taken under section 21 of the AMLO. The AMLO imposes customer due diligence and record-keeping requirements on specified financial institutions, including authorized institutions, and designated non-financial businesses and professions. The MA is the relevant authority for authorized institutions under the AMLO.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Monetary Authority takes disciplinary action against 33 Financial Services Limited for contravention of Payment Systems and Stored Value Facilities Ordinance

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Monetary Authority takes disciplinary action against 33 Financial Services Limited for contravention of Payment Systems and Stored Value Facilities Ordinance 
    The disciplinary action (Note 1) follows an investigation by the HKMA which found that, during the period from December 1, 2019 to August 31, 2023, 33FS failed to have in place adequate and appropriate systems of control to comply with the relevant paragraphs of the Guideline on Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Financing of Terrorism (For Stored Value Facility (SVF) Licensees) (Guideline) (Note 2).
     
    Specifically, the contravention relates to deficiencies in 33FS’ systems of control in three areas, namely:
          In deciding the disciplinary action, the MA has taken into account the relevant circumstances and factors, including:
          The Executive Director (Enforcement and AML) of the HKMA, Mr Raymond Chan, said, “CDD measures are crucial for combatting ML and TF risks. Verifying the identity of customers and understanding the purpose and intended nature of the business relationships are essential elements of CDD measures. SVF licensees should ensure that they have effective CDD measures in place.”
     
    Relevant link: Statement of Disciplinary Action  
    Note 1: The disciplinary action is taken under section 33Q of the PSSVFO.

    Note 2: Paragraphs 4.6.1, 4.1.3(a), 4.1.3(d), 4.4.4, and 4.3.16 of the Guideline (October 2018 version and September 2020 version).
    Issued at HKT 17:07

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Nuclear gloveboxes

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Case study

    Nuclear gloveboxes

    Gloveboxes have been an intrinsic part of nuclear work since the birth of the UK industry. They’ve kept people safe and helped drive nuclear research and development for decades.

    A nuclear glovebox

    We have more than 700 gloveboxes at Sellafield, and they help tell the story of the pioneering past, present and future missions on our site.

    What is a glovebox?

    A nuclear glovebox is essentially a sealed container with built in gloves that allow operators to handle radioactive materials safely.

    They vary in size, design and purpose but are commonly made up of a steel frame and panels made of metal or Perspex.

    Nuclear gloveboxes on the Sellafield site

    Long PVC gloves are built into the box so operators can safely handle nuclear materials without risking contamination. They may also wear additional lead-lined, heat resistant or cut resistant gloves depending on the type of work they are doing.

    The atmosphere inside the box is controlled and ventilated, and materials are placed inside via an entry port to maintain containment.

    A key part of our clean-up mission at Sellafield is the dismantling and disposal of redundant gloveboxes that were used for historic defence, research, reprocessing, and fuel fabrication operations.

    Some are up to 60 years old and in difficult to access places. They can still house contaminated pipework, vessels, cables, valves, or sharp objects that aren’t always visible.

    Removing, dismantling and disposing of redundant gloveboxes presents a unique decommissioning challenge but we’re making real progress and learning lessons that can help other nuclear sites.

    Analytical Services

    Our analytical services laboratories have provided a valuable service to the site for 70 years, with the first built to support defence and reprocessing operations in the 1950s.

    Some contain redundant gloveboxes that take up space and pose a potential hazard to workers and the environment.

    In September 2024 we successfully removed the first contaminated glovebox from of our oldest and most challenging labs.

    A redundant glovebox in Sellafield’s analytical services laboratories

    Operators wearing air-fed suits and respirators worked to safely disconnect and cut up the redundant glovebox before sorting it and packaging it for export to a modern waste store.

    And in May 2025 we reduced the hazard further by successfully removing a second glovebox, with eleven more to go.

    Glovebox work is also at the forefront of the breakthroughs we’re making in applying robotic solutions to nuclear problems.

    Sellafield is a test bed for some of the most innovative nuclear technologies in the world and a hub of collaboration with industry, supply chains, and academia.

    We’re continually exploring how we can use robots and AI to keep people safe, enhance the work they do, and speed up the delivery of our decommissioning mission.

    RrOBO

    The Risk-reduction Of glovebox Operations (RrOBO) project is a collaboration between Sellafield and AtkinsRealis with transformational potential for glovebox operations.

    In 2023 we demonstrated that a Kinova robotic arm in a containment sleeve could be retrofitted to a glovebox and equipped with a range of tools and sensory equipment to aid operations.

    RoOBO deployed in a redundant glovebox

    Operators proved they could control the arm remotely to perform a range of tasks including material and equipment moves, swabbing, decontamination, and radiometric scans.

    As a result, RrOBO was successfully deployed to decommission a redundant glovebox in Sellafield’s MOX Demonstration Facility in November 2024; the first active deployment of this technology anywhere in the world.

    The UK nuclear industry requires thousands of new gloveboxes to support current and future missions in the decommissioning and defence sectors.

    We’ll need a pipeline of skilled glovebox operators for many years to come, but it’s difficult work requiring high levels of dexterity and consistent standards.

    To help meet this demand, Sellafield is playing a central role in training and equipping the next generation of glovebox operators.

    The Glovebox Training Facility

    The UK ARC programme is a partnership between the UK government and nuclear industry that works to ensure the UK has the skills it needs to manage special nuclear materials now and in the future.

    In 2023 it opened the Glovebox Training Facility at Sellafield so learners from around the country can come together to develop their glovebox skills in a safe and controlled environment.

    A glovebox operator being trained at The Glovebox Training Facility

    This approach has significant benefits in reducing the need for on-plant training and providing a standardised approach across the sector, improving quality and reducing training time by months.

    From April 2025, over 170 glovebox operators have been trained there, and in 2025 Sellafield Ltd took over responsibility for the Facility.

    Sellafield has an important clean-up mission with a long future. We’re also the custodians of most of the UK’s nuclear waste and over 140 tonnes of civil separated plutonium – the largest stockpile in the world.

    It’s a mission of national significance so we’re working with global experts to build the new generation of plants and facilities we’ll need to support the UK nuclear industry and keep the site safe for the next century.

    And just as they did for the earliest nuclear pioneers, gloveboxes will continue to play a key role in keeping future nuclear workers safe.

    The Sellafield Product and Residue Store Retreatment Plant (SRP)

    SRP is one of the largest and most important construction projects on the Sellafield site today.

    Once operational in the 2030s, it will receive and repackage plutonium to ensure it can be stored safely and securely for another 100 years.

    In May 2025 the project achieved a major milestone when the roof of the main building was finally sealed, making it watertight and ready for internal fit-out.

    The Sellafield Product and Residue Store Retreatment Plant (SRP) on the Sellafield site

    The next phase of the project will include the installation of an array of glovebox systems, most of which will be automated and monitored remotely.

    The gloveboxes are currently being manufactured and tested at an off-site facility and the first will be installed in 2026.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council officially adopts Local Development Plan, LDP 2032

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Council officially adopts Local Development Plan, LDP 2032

    11 July 2025

    Derry City and Strabane District Council has officially adopted the Local Development Plan 2032: Plan Strategy, following an extensive process involving widespread public and stakeholder engagement.

    Each Council across N. Ireland was tasked with the delivery of a bespoke development plan for their area – in consultation with the local community and reflecting the vision, objectives, growth strategy and strategic policies for the council area. The LDP comprises of all the Planning policies for the City and District, as well as making sure there is enough land available for the area’s housing, employment and community needs, while protecting important landscape and environmental features.

    Following the Independent Examination (IE) of the Derry City and Strabane District Council Local Development Plan 2032 – draft Plan Strategy, the Planning Appeal Commission’s (PAC) report and a Direction from the Department for Infrastructure (DfI) was issued on 17th December 2024 to Adopt the LDP Plan Strategy, with Modifications, under section 12(1)(b) of the Planning Act (NI) 2011.

    After the Independent Examination, the PAC found the draft Plan Strategy to be sound, subject to the required amendments and Modifications. The Council considers the PAC report and the DfI Direction, to be a strong endorsement of the Council’s vision and policies in the Plan.

    Welcoming the adoption, the Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District, Councillor Ruairí McHugh, said: “This is a significant milestone for the future development and regeneration of the Derry City and Strabane District. The LDP is a major strategy that will provide a solid foundation for future development across our City and District. We now have a full suite of our own Planning policies that can accommodate all sorts of buildings and uses that are required, to make this City and District a thriving and prosperous place for everyone.

    “We have major ambitions for the growth and development of Derry and Strabane in line with the priorities set out in our Strategic Growth Plan. The LDP provides a Planning framework that will guide and direct future growth ensuring that development here is responsible, sustainable and fully regulated for the benefit or all our citizens.”

    The LDP 2032 Plan Strategy is available, together with the associated documents, at https://www.derrystrabane.com/subsites/ldp

    The LDP documents are also available to view, by appointment, during normal opening hours, at:

    •              Council Offices, 98 Strand Road, Derry, BT48 7NN

    •              Council Offices, 47 Derry Road, Strabane, BT82 8DY

    The Council has also commenced a public consultation, to 4th September, on a series of Supplementary Planning Guidance (SPG) documents that will support the implementation of the LDP.

    Derry City & Strabane District Council will now formally commence the preparation of the Local Development Plan (LDP) Local Policies Plan (LPP). The public is not required to take any further action or make any submissions at this time. This LPP will be undertaken in accordance with the Planning (LDP) Regulations (NI) 2015 and the Council’s published LDP Timetable and Statement of Community Involvement (Planning, SCI) (both documents are under review, available on the Council website).

    The LDP 2032 Plan Strategy (PS) and associated documents can be supplied in alternative formats; any such requests or queries should be directed to the Local Development Plan Team at: [email protected] or in writing to Local Development Plan Team, Council Offices, 98 Strand Road, Derry, BT48 7NN.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Labour Market training on Machinery

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Labour Market training on Machinery

    16 July 2025

    Tuesday 15th July 2025

    The Derry Strabane Labour Market Partnership (LMP) is pleased to announce the launch of its new Plant Academy, an innovative programme designed to equip local residents with the essential skills for working with plant and machinery. Set to begin on July 10, the Academy will be delivered by McKinney’s Safety Centre.

    This initiative comes at a crucial time, as the Derry City and Strabane District Council area anticipates significant growth from incoming investments, including the Derry Strabane City Deal and other major construction and infrastructure developments. The Plant Academy will prepare participants for the new skills required to capitalise on these transformative opportunities.

    Funded by the Department for Communities, Labour Market Partnerships are designed to create targeted employment action plans for Council areas, fostering collaboration to support people into employment.

    Kevin O’Connor, Head of Business with Derry City and Strabane District Council, encouraging local participation in the Academy said: “This is a unique opportunity for our community to upskill and gain training that will directly assist them in securing upcoming jobs. Construction investment is a cornerstone for transformative progress in the Derry and Strabane region, from urban regeneration to sustainable housing projects, commercial ventures, and cutting-edge infrastructure. With significant growth anticipated in the construction sector, the need for skilled workers has never been greater. The Labour Market Partnership is working closely with local communities and statutory organisations to equip residents with the expertise required to seize current and upcoming employment opportunities.”

    The Plant Academy specifically targets residents of the Derry City and Strabane District Council area, focusing on developing in-demand skills within the plant and construction sectors. Participants will gain valuable certifications in areas such as dump truck operation, telehandler use, and roller driving. These practical training opportunities are carefully tailored to align with current industry needs, offering the potential for long-term employment prospects.

    Applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria to enrol. Those selected will access hands-on training designed to build foundational skills crucial for contributing to the region’s growing construction landscape. For further details about the Plant Academy or to inquire about eligibility, please contact Hazel at McKinney’s Safety Centre at [email protected].

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Public reminded of limited parking at Council facilities during Foyle Cup next week

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Public reminded of limited parking at Council facilities during Foyle Cup next week

    16 July 2025

    Derry City and Strabane District Council are reminding the public that parking spaces will be limited at Council owned Leisure Centres and grass pitch facilities during the Foyle Cup competition next week.

    With thousands of visitors are expected across the region for the Foyle Cup, Derry City and Strabane District Council is advising the public of limited parking at local leisure centres and reminding visitors of important onsite regulations.

    Due to the scale of the tournament and increased demand at Council facilities, parking will be restricted at all leisure centres and grass pitches, with particular pressure at the Melvin Sports Complex, where ongoing building works are already limiting available spaces.

    Visitors attending the Melvin Sports Complex are strongly encouraged to use town centre car parks and walk to the site where possible, to reduce congestion and support safe access for all users.

    Barry O’Hagan, Head of Community Development and Leisure at Derry City and Strabane District Council said, “We’re thrilled to welcome so many visitors to the city and district over the Foyle Cup and we hope that everyone has an enjoyable and memorable week while they are here. To help ensure this is successful, we are asking visitors to plan ahead as there will be limited parking at all of our leisure centres and grass pitches.

    “We would encourage everyone to use town centre car parking when possible or make use of our public transport across the city and district. We appreciate your cooperation in helping ensure a safe and enjoyable week for all participants, spectators and organisers.”

    The Council also encourages teams and spectators to allow extra time when travelling to matches and to follow signage and advice from stewards where in place.

    Facility users are kindly reminded that pets are not permitted within any Council owned leisure centre buildings or pitches, expect for registered assistance dogs.

    The public’s cooperation is greatly appreciated in helping to ensure the smooth operation across all facilities.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Mayor formally opens 2025 O’Neills Foyle Cup

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Mayor formally opens 2025 O’Neills Foyle Cup

    21 July 2025

    Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Councillor Ruairí McHugh, has formally opened the 2025 O’Neills Foyle Cup in Guildhall Square.

    It followed the tournament’s opening parade where thousands of footballers, coaches and supporters marched through the city centre before congregating in Waterloo Place and Guildhall Square.
    The Foyle Cup is one of the world’s biggest youth football tournaments and will feature over 900 teams, ranging in age from 8 to 19, over the next six days.
    “Guildhall Square was awash with colour and noise for the official opening of the tournament,” said Mayor McHugh.
    “It was such a wonderful sight to see thousands of youngsters here, decked out in their club colours and ready for a week they will never forget.”
    This year’s tournament has attracted visiting teams from across the world including overseas clubs from Spain, America, and Canada.
    They will play in venues across Derry, Tyrone and Donegal in front of in excess of 250,000 spectators.
    “As a Council are acutely aware of the crucial role the tournament plays in showcasing this City and District, attracting visitors and providing a platform for young people to express themselves,” Mayor McHugh added.
    “That is why we are proud to support the event through core funding and the provision of pitches, facilities and staff support.
    “I want to wish all the players, coaches and supporters the very best of luck this week, enjoy the games and make memories to last a lifetime!”
    Full fixture lists, games results and match venue information can be accessed on the tournament website at www.foylecup.com.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Find “Inspiration” at VDNKh: What New Things the Arts Festival Has in Store

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Listen to live symphonic music, see productions by theater troupes from around the world, get acquainted with a new interpretation of the classics, and be inspired by great art — all this can be done at VDNKh from July 23 to 27. For the eighth time, the main exhibition of our country is hosting the International Arts Festival “Inspiration”. This year, visitors will enjoy an expanded music program, as well as many theater productions, immersive shows, and performances by artists from Russia, Armenia, Egypt, India, Iran, Italy, China, and Turkey. Admission is free, but pre-registration is required for certain events. The program of festival events at outdoor venues may change depending on weather conditions. Spectators should monitor the weather forecast and dress accordingly.

    The impressive “Statue Opera” project was prepared by VDNKh especially for the festival. The most famous sculptures of the exhibition, which decorate pavilions No. 1, 59, 18 (Belarus), No. 11 (Kazakhstan), No. 66 (Uzbekistan), No. 67 (Karelia), as well as the fountains “Stone Flower” and “Friendship of Nations”, will literally sing for the guests.

    Near each sculpture there is a QR code, by clicking on which you can hear the track. This is a unique opportunity to conduct an audio study of the space where cultural heritage has found a voice.

    A special event of the festival will be a chamber concert by the Honored Artist of Russia, winner and laureate of international competitions Alexander Gindin “Schumann. Schubert. Chopin”The outstanding pianist will perform Arabesque by Robert Schumann, works by Franz Schubert and Franz Liszt, as well as Fantasy-Impromptu, two nocturnes and a scherzo by Frederic Chopin. The concert will take place on July 23 at 19:00 in the House of Culture, it will be a true dedication to the era of romanticism and will give the audience a meeting with the silence and depth of great music.

    One of the main musical events of “Inspiration” will be a large open-air symphony concert “Poetry of the Russian Waltz”. Conductor Ivan Nikiforchin, a rising star of the Russian and world classical music scene, will present a large symphony concert at “Inspiration”, which will feature fragments from the works of great Russian composers – Mikhail Glinka, Pyotr Tchaikovsky, Sergei Prokofiev, Sergei Rachmaninoff, Alexander Glazunov, Aram Khachaturian and Georgy Sviridov. The concert will take place on July 27 at 8:00 pm on Druzhby Narodov Square.

    Theater groups and artists will perform at 10 VDNKh venues, including the Main Alley and the square near the Friendship of Nations fountain, the Worker and Kolkhoz Woman pavilion, and the Slovo Museum of Slavic Literature.

    Among the most striking premieres are a storytelling performance, a street performance on a cube, an immersive performance – “epistolary action”, as well as a production by Turkish director Mehmet Birkje “War and Peace. Chapter 1”.

    The play based on the epic novel by Leo Tolstoy “War and Peace” will be performed on July 23 at 8:00 PM on the legendary stage of the Green Theater. The production by the Turkish director will reveal the great work of the classic in a new way for the audience.

    On July 23 and 24 at 9:30 p.m. on the Central Alley in front of the Lenin monument, a street performance by the Italian circus company Cubo will take place. The colorful show will unfold inside and outside a cube-shaped structure suspended from a crane.

    On July 25 and 26 at 17:00 and 21:00 in the foyer of the House of Culture you can see the plastic performance “E” by the group from Yerevan. The production will combine the beauty of the plasticity of the human body and the skill of puppet theater, telling the story of a lonely man trying to rediscover his essence. The performance is based on Vladimir Nabokov’s story “The Word”.

    The audience will also be able to appreciate the work of young actors from the Nemirovich-Danchenko School-Studio at the Chekhov Moscow Art Theatre. “Morphine” based on the story of the same name by M.A. Bulgakov. This performance about love, which becomes an addiction, the meaning of existence, weakness and destructive force at the same time, will take place at the VDNKh Culture House on July 24 at 19:00.

    On July 23 and 24 at 5:00 PM and 9:00 PM, the House of Culture will host an immersive performance, which involves interaction with the actors. “Red Lantern”This “epistolary action,” as the creators of the play call it, is based on the letters and diaries of the last director of the imperial theaters, Vladimir Telyakovsky, who served in this position for almost 20 years and was dismissed in the spring of 1917.

    And on July 26, the Central Alley will host the storytelling play “VDNKh: People. Time. Events” (directed by Maxim Filatov). Seven real stories of Muscovites formed the basis of the play, masterfully depicting the characters of people, important signs of the era and telling about amazing events that are hard to believe. A group of street musicians will give the play a special atmosphere, and the camera work of Rostislav Litsuk will place the necessary accents and focus the viewer’s attention on the actors’ performance.

    Holding events for VDNKh guests corresponds to the objectives of the national project “Tourism and Hospitality” and is the most important part of the VDNKh strategy until 2030.

    Arts Festival “Inspiration” is being implemented within the framework of the “Summer in Moscow” project.

    Project “Summer in Moscow”— the main event of the season. It brings together the most vibrant events of the capital. Every day, charity, cultural and sports events are held in all districts of the city, most of which are free. The Summer in Moscow project is being held for the second time, and this season will be more eventful: new, original and colorful festivals and events will be added to the traditional ones.

    Get the latest news quicklyofficial telegram channel the city of Moscow.

    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.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Polytechnic University and Rossotrudnichestvo held an international chess day

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, together with the Rossotrudnichestvo representative office in India, held an educational master class for Indian schoolchildren who are passionate about chess.

    Chess as a physical education discipline appeared at the Polytechnic University in 2021. Every semester, chess classes are attended by more than a hundred first- and second-year students. The Polytechnic University Chess Club, named after a university graduate, the first Soviet world champion, grandmaster Mikhail Botvinnik, regularly holds tournaments, including online ones. Our club’s Interuniversity project is the largest international online tournament among students in the world (more than 1,000 participants from 20 different countries). The Polytechnic University team is the champion of St. Petersburg and Russia in chess, and winners of the All-Russian Summer Universiade. The honor of the team was defended by FIDE masters, international masters, and grandmaster Kirill Alekseenko, who was a contender for the world chess crown at the time of his studies at the Polytechnic University.

    The event, dedicated to the development of Russian-Indian cooperation in the field of education and sports, brought together young chess players from India. The program was rich and informative. Polytechnic University was represented by Pavel Martynov, an international FIDE master and candidate of pedagogical sciences with more than 10 years of experience, speaking via videoconference. He gave the children a remote lecture on how chess develops critical thinking, memory, concentration and strategic planning skills, and shared practical strategies that are useful both at the board and in studies.

    The participants of the master class were shown a film about the Polytechnic University. The schoolchildren learned about the history, traditions, modern scientific achievements and the rich student life of the university. The children were reminded that the legendary Mikhail Botvinnik, the 6th world chess champion, the founder of the Soviet chess school, was a graduate of the Electromechanical Faculty of the Leningrad Polytechnic Institute (now SPbPU) in 1932. This fact aroused keen interest among young Indian chess players, for whom the name Botvinnik is synonymous with chess greatness. The children got acquainted with his biography at a photo exhibition dedicated to outstanding chess players.

    The theoretical part smoothly turned into the practical. Pavel Martynov held a session of simultaneous play with the schoolchildren. The children were able to test their strength and apply some of the ideas they heard in practice.

    “It is a great honor for the Polytechnic University to continue the traditions established by such giants as Mikhail Botvinnik,” noted Pavel Martynov. “We are pleased to have the opportunity to share our developments with young talents of India and strengthen our friendly ties through the universal language of chess. The enthusiasm and level of play of Indian schoolchildren are impressive!”

    The Rossotrudnichestvo Representative Office in India expressed gratitude to SPbPU and personally to Pavel Martynov for organizing and holding a highly professional and educational event that promotes the popularization of the Russian language, Russian education and culture, and also strengthens friendship between the youth of the two countries.

    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.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Khorgos checkpoint sees significant increase in China-Europe rail traffic

    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

    URUMQI, July 22 (Xinhua) — Horgos Port in northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, located on the China-Europe international freight train route, has developed into an important transportation hub for promoting international trade with astonishing speed. In the first half of this year, 471,000 TEU (twenty-foot equivalent unit) containers (TEU) were transported by China-Europe freight trains through the port, up more than 26 percent year on year, according to Horgos Customs data.

    Since the first China-Europe freight train passed through Horgos in 2016, a total of 88 China-Europe freight routes have been launched at the port, covering 46 cities in 18 countries. More than 100,000 items of goods are shipped across the globe every year, providing highly efficient and stable logistics corridors for Chinese-made products to be exported to countries along the Belt and Road Initiative.

    Such successes were achieved not simply through “brute force.”

    In May this year, Horgos Customs was the first in the country to implement the reform of the “smart railway checkpoint, fast-track customs clearance at the destination” model, reducing the transit time of imported goods from 2-3 days to less than 16 hours, and the average transshipment time for a return freight train is 2 hours on average. More than 27 China-Europe trains pass through Horgos every day, and the customs provides 24/7 services, ensuring immediate inspection of trains upon arrival, which has greatly reduced the customs clearance time of goods.

    “Our company has been working as a checkpoint agent for over 10 years. China-Europe freight train services are fast and stable. In the first half of this year, we have already serviced over 1,300 such trains, which is 10 percent more than last year,” said Han Xing, COO of the Khorgos branch of Hong’an International Freight Forwarding Company.

    In order to ensure the sustainable growth of the types and volumes of goods transported by trains on China-Europe routes, Khorgos Customs has been continuously deepening the reform of its operational activities, taking measures such as integrating customs control into the railway operation process, establishing a special service window for China-Europe trains, developing customized service solutions in accordance with the needs of shippers, etc. -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.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Millions risk losing access to humanitarian food assistance amid funding slowdown in South Sudan

    Source: World Food Programme

    JUBA, South Sudan – The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has reached over two million people with life-saving assistance in South Sudan so far this year. However, a severe funding shortfall threatens ongoing support, placing millions at risk of losing aid.

    Below is an update on food security and WFP operations in South Sudan, including a quote from WFP Deputy Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer, Carl Skau, who recently returned from South Sudan:

    Food Security Situation

    • Half the population of South Sudan – 7.7 million people – are facing severe hunger. 

    • Of these, 83,000 people are facing catastrophic levels of hunger (IPC5) – the highest classification of food insecurity – including:

      • 32,000 people in Upper Nile State where fierce fighting since March has displaced thousands and severely limited humanitarian access.
      • Nasir and Ulang counties in Upper Nile are at risk of deteriorating into famine.
      • 39,000 who have returned to South Sudan fleeing conflict in Sudan.
      • A record 2.3 million children are at-risk of malnutrition – with conflict areas in Upper Nile and flood-affected areas such as Bentiu among the most impacted.
      • Progress has been achieved where conditions allow for humanitarian access:
      • In Uror county, Jonglei state, all pockets of Catastrophic hunger (IPC5) were alleviated this year as WFP was able to consistently deliver assistance.
      • In ten other counties where conflict and insecurity subsided, crop production increased – improving the food security situation.
      • Sustained peace and humanitarian support are vital to cement these gains.
      • Due to raging conflict in neighboring Sudan, nearly 1.2 million people have fled to South Sudan since April 2023, many arriving hungry, malnourished and traumatised.

      WFP Response 

    • WFP has supported two million of the most vulnerable people in South Sudan this year, including over 300,000 impacted by the escalation of conflict in Upper Nile.
    • In July, WFP conducted airdrops to access the most remote parts of the Greater Upper Nile region, including areas at risk of famine. To date, we have delivered 430 metric tons of food, and airdrops are ongoing to reach 40,000 people.
    • Vital river convoys on the White Nile River have resumed after access was granted for the first time in months due to fighting.
    • On 16 July, a river convoy carrying 1,380 mt of life-saving food assistance from WFP and other non-food items transported on behalf of the humanitarian community, departed Bor destined for Upper Nile state.
    • River routes are the most cost-effective way to move food assistance at scale in South Sudan where infrastructure is severely limited.
    • The WFP run United Nations Humanitarian Air Service (UNHAS) continues to serve seven destinations in Upper Nile including Maban, Maiwut, Malakal, Mandeng, Mathiang, Renk, and Ulang – providing life-saving cargo and access to the most remote areas.
    • Upper Nile state has been significantly affected by a cholera outbreak. Since March, the WFP-led Logistics Cluster has airlifted 109 metric tons of cholera-related supplies to locations in Upper Nile and Unity states.

    Funding outlook and challenges

    • Severe funding shortfalls mean WFP can reach just 2.5 million people with regular assistance – only 30 percent of people facing severe hunger – across the country with emergency food assistance.
    • WFP urgently requires US$274 million to maintain support for just the 2.5 million most acutely food insecure through the end of the year – providing only 50 percent rations to these communities in most cases.
    • Further reductions in rations and assistance will be necessary in September if additional funds are not urgently received.
    • Limiting food aid to the most vulnerable families risks undoing recent fragile gains.

    Notes to editors:

    WFP Deputy Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer, Carl Skau, visited South Sudan on 17-20 July, the following quotes may be attributed to him:

    “The scale of the humanitarian needs in South Sudan is staggering. But the scale of suffering here does not make headlines. Whether it’s families trapped every year by flooding in Unity state or others trapped by conflict in Upper Nile state – millions of mothers, fathers, and children spend each day fighting hunger to survive. 

    WFP is here, providing whatever assistance we can, however we can. But rising needs and shrinking resources are forcing us to scale back, even in places where people are on the brink of famine. 

    WFP has the expertise, the teams, and the capacity to deliver, even in the most remote and challenging environments, but without sufficient funding, and a period of peace, our hands are tied. This is a country endowed with natural resources and a vibrant youthful population. It is time to unlock its full potential.”

    South Sudan emergency page here.

    Broadcast quality footage available here.

    High resolution photos available here.

    #                              #                       #

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

    Follow us on X, formerly Twitter, via @wfp_SouthSudan

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China big data industry expo to showcase digital economy innovations

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

    GUIYANG, July 22 — The 2025 China International Big Data Industry Expo will be held from Aug. 28 to 30 in Guiyang, capital of southwest China’s Guizhou Province, according to a press conference on Tuesday.

    The expo will spotlight cutting-edge innovations integrating data with artificial intelligence, which aim to drive efficient convergence and value realization of data resources, injecting robust momentum into industrial upgrading and high-quality economic growth, according to the organizers.

    Wang Xudong, spokesperson for the National Data Administration (NDA), highlighted the event’s enhanced international focus, saying that as the world’s first global expo centered on data, this year’s edition will pioneer an international supply-demand partnership zone.

    Structured around the five key areas of data elements, data industry, digital economy, data infrastructure and international cooperation, the expo will feature over 20 forums on frontier theories and practices.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Enhances Mumbai Retail Presence with New Premium Experience Store in Andheri West

    Source: Samsung

     
    Samsung, India’s largest consumer electronics brand, has further solidified its premium retail presence with the opening of a new premium experience store at Lotus Trade Centre, Andheri West, Mumbai.
     
    Spanning 1,600 sq. ft., this expansive store serves as a comprehensive destination for customers to explore Samsung’s latest innovations and its seamlessly connected ecosystem, all in one place.
     
    Strategically located in one of Mumbai’s key retail and lifestyle hubs, the store features dedicated zones showcasing Samsung’s full range of Galaxy devices, including the latest smartphones, tablets, laptops, smartwatches, smart rings, and the advanced SmartThings ecosystem. With interactive displays and experiential zones, visitors can discover how Samsung technology enhances productivity, entertainment, wellness, and smart home automation for a truly connected lifestyle.
     
    “At Samsung, we are dedicated to bringing innovation closer to our customers through inspiring retail experiences. The launch of our premium experience store in Andheri West, Mumbai, marks a significant milestone in our journey to expand our premium retail footprint and create holistic, all-in-one destinations for technology, engagement, and service,” said Sumit Walia, Vice President, Head of D2C Business & Corporate Marketing at Samsung India.
     
    As part of Samsung’s flagship ‘Learn @ Samsung’ initiative, the store will host regular workshops focused on AI-powered photography, productivity, creativity, and doodling using Galaxy devices. These workshops aim to empower millennials and Gen Z consumers to maximize their device usage in everyday life. In addition, the store features a full-fledged service centre, ensuring customers receive prompt and reliable post-purchase support.
     
    Through Samsung Store+, a digital interface within the store, customers can seamlessly browse products and arrange home delivery for their selected items. Furthermore, a dedicated service centre within the store ensures enhanced post-purchase support for customers.
     
    To celebrate the launch, customers visiting the Andheri West experience store can enjoy exclusive Paytm First benefits, including:
     

    Special travel and dining offers
    Over 30 free subscriptions across leading OTT, music, wellness, and infotainment platforms
    Exclusive discounts on over 40 brand gift cards and more than 25 top deals from premium brands
    Buy-1-Get-1-Free buffet deals across over 100 premium restaurants nationwide

     
     

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Oxfam reaction to the communiqué of the third meeting of G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors under South African presidency

    Source: Oxfam –

    Reacting to the communique issued at the conclusion of 3rd G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors (FMCBG) meeting under the South African presidency, Nkateko Chauke, Interim Executive Director at Oxfam South Africa said:

    “Although the G20 acknowledged the need to reform the international tax system, it ignored the elephant in the room: the super-rich continue to evade taxes through legal loopholes and tax havens. Meanwhile governments in Africa and other low-income countries are forced to institute regressive taxes like VAT to raise more revenues, hence fuelling inequality and worsening poverty.

    “A fair global tax system must start by supporting the efforts of UN Tax Convention and ending the veto power of tax havens.

    “As droughts, floods, and climate devastation threaten the Global South and beyond, the G20’s inaction is a betrayal. They must urgently deliver on the Baku-to-Belém roadmap by securing public, grant-based climate finance, led by the richest polluters. Their focus on private finance and carbon markets dangerously evades responsibility, burdening the poorest. The money is there—it’s time to tax the super-rich and fossil fuel excessive profits.

    “We urge the G20 to follow the South African G20 Presidency’s call for solidarity, equality and sustainability. That includes backing bold proposals like taxing the super-rich, as supported in the Brazilian G20 Leaders’ Declaration and the recent UN Conference on Financing for Development in Seville. Fair taxation is essential to fight inequality and fund public services.”
     

    Oxfam’s latest report Africa’s inequality crisis and the rise of the super-rich reveals that at present, just four of Africa’s richest billionaires hold more wealth than half of the continent’s population combined.

    The report finds that the richest 5% in Africa hold nearly $4 trillion in wealth — more than double the combined wealth of the remaining 95%.

    It shows that an extra tax of 1% on wealth and 10% on income of Africa’s richest 1% could raise $66 billion annually — enough to close the funding gaps for free quality education and universal access to electricity.

    Despite worsening poverty, African governments remain the least committed globally to tackling inequality, and many are cutting spending on health, education and social protection to repay debt.

    Read the full report here.
     

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI China: New market entities in Beijing up 17.64% in H1

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

    Beijing registered 176,800 market entities in the first half of 2025, marking a year-on-year increase of 17.64%, the highest mid-year growth in the past four years. The surge was powered by strong momentum in producer services and the digital economy, according to the municipal market regulator.

    In the first half, 10,900 new entities were established in the digital economy sector, representing a 53.92% year-on-year increase. Software development and information technology services grew by 190.72% and 40.59%, respectively, together contributing to 81.3% of the sector’s overall growth.

    Producer services also showed strong momentum. The sector added 106,100 new entities in the period, a rise of 18.49% year on year. Key drivers included R&D and technical services, business support, and information services, which together accounted for more than 80% of the sector’s expansion. Several subfields, such as technology commercialization, consulting, and IT services, posted growth rates exceeding 30%.

    Beyond the two leading sectors, eldercare and cultural industries contributed additional vitality. The city saw 81,400 new eldercare-related entities, a 22.5% increase. Notably, smart eldercare services rose 96.08% year on year.

    Cultural and related industries registered 20,400 new entities, nearly 70% of which were in content creation. Cultural investment and operations saw the fastest growth, up 103.56%.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s consumer goods trade-in program helps boost demand

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

    China’s consumer goods trade-in program has spurred purchases of more than 109 million home appliances so far this year, engaging more than 66 million consumers, as the country stepped up efforts to boost domestic demand.

    The program has driven sales of more than 74 million digital devices and nearly 9.06 million electric bicycles, according to data released by the Ministry of Commerce on Tuesday.

    Previous statistics from the ministry showed that in the first five months of this year, the trade-in program generated 1.1 trillion yuan (about 153.93 billion U.S. dollars) in sales.

    Boosted by the program, China’s retail sales of consumer goods, a major indicator of the country’s consumption strength, expanded 5 percent year on year in the first half of this year. The pace of growth is 0.4 percentage points faster than the growth recorded in the first quarter.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Sinosoft uses AI to help Chinese exporters navigate trade regulations

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

    Chinese firms with global ambitions are increasingly turning to AI and big data to overcome trade obstacles, according to a technology executive at the recently concluded third China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE).

    Wu Yan, general manager of Jiangsu Skytech Industrial Internet Co., speaks at an event during the third China International Supply Chain Expo in Beijing, July 18, 2025. [Photo courtesy of the CISCE Organizing Committee]

    Wu Yan, general manager of Jiangsu Skytech Industrial Internet Co., a subsidiary of Sinosoft Technology, told China.org.cn that inquiries have surged as U.S. tariffs create new compliance challenges. Sinosoft provides digital trade and compliance services using AI and big data, having served nearly 200,000 enterprises.

    “Many enterprises came to us asking how to navigate these changes,” Wu said. “Our large language model instantly captures new regulatory updates online and refreshes daily to meet these demands.”

    The company made its debut at the five-day expo, which ended Sunday, after observing a significant increase in export-oriented enterprises seeking their services in recent years.

    At the expo, Jiangsu Skytech was joined by two other Sinosoft Technology Group subsidiaries — Nanjing Skytech Quanshuitong Information Co. and Nanjing Skytech Co. — to showcase products and achievements.

    Sinosoft also partnered with the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) Trade Development & Cooperation Center to launch a new platform for industrial and supply chain restructuring, powered by the company’s AI model.

    “Whether it’s customs compliance, cross-border legal services, or green low-carbon exports, these reflect companies’ most pressing pain points and genuine needs,” Wu said.

    “As a technology software company, we leverage digital and intelligent solutions to assist them,” Wu added. “This drives us to share the insights we’ve gained— especially from working with supply chain enterprises — along with our innovative application cases.”

    The booth of Sinosoft Technology during the China International Supply Chain Expo in Beijing, July 18, 2025. [Photo courtesy of the CISCE Organizing Committee]

    The company’s AI system demonstrates concrete results. “For example, we helped a company from Jiangsu province that was exporting to South Korea. Using the vertical large model, we optimized its global strategy — lowering tariffs by 74%, cutting carbon emissions by 45% and improving efficiency by 80%. Previously, such calculations relied on manual labor or multiple business systems, but now the process takes just minutes,” Wu said. 

    The AI model draws from over 20 years of experience in export tax rebate service and two decades of digital legal services, including collaborations with China’s Ministry of Justice. It continuously monitors global policy and tariff changes, relieving enterprises from the burden of manually tracking foreign regulatory updates, according to Wu.

    Wu explained that today’s tariff mechanisms operate within a complex web of global trade agreements, including multilateral and bilateral free trade agreements, alongside volatile regulations such as evolving U.S. trade policies.

    For small- and medium-sized enterprises operating on thin margins, the model provides affordable access to insights on avoiding legal pitfalls, meeting carbon compliance standards, and managing supply chain constraints, Wu said.

    The new industrial and supply chain restructuring solution, developed in partnership with the CCPIT Trade Development & Cooperation Center, is a comprehensive system designed to help businesses navigate the challenges of going global.

    Wu emphasized the company’s commitment to working more closely with ecosystem partners it connected with at the expo to drive supply chain transformation. He highlighted the importance of understanding the real-world obstacles industrial and supply chain companies face when going global.

    As an industrial software provider, the company aims to integrate cutting-edge technologies into practical solutions that address core business pain points through innovation, Wu noted.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Beijing’s Changping to launch advanced medical equipment hub

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

    A major new center for medical equipment showcases and collaboration is set to open later this year in Beijing’s Changping district.

    Designed to offer five core functions: product demonstrations, training, regulatory support, global partnership facilitation, and digital services, the center will be unveiled in the fourth quarter this year. 

    The center’s exhibition space will combine real-world clinical scenarios with physical product displays. Visitors will be able to experience replicas of hospital environments — such as ICUs and operating rooms — equipped with advanced technologies like AI-guided tours and remote medical systems. These spaces will showcase cutting-edge products across key fields including cardiology, oncology, neurology, diagnostics, surgery, and rehabilitation.

    The facility will also feature a training and demonstration base for promoting high-end medical equipment. A dedicated education center will include simulation labs, classrooms, and surgical training areas, providing hands-on instruction for clinical professionals and medical device regulators. This aims to strengthen both product usage and oversight capabilities.

    In partnership with the National Medical Products Administration’s Center for Medical Device Evaluation and other local innovation service stations, the center will offer services such as staff training and pre-market guidance.

    To support international collaboration, the center will also establish a global cooperation platform for medical devices. Through partnerships with Belt and Road countries, it plans to promote mutual recognition of standards, facilitate joint testing, and improve market access. 

    The center sits within the rapidly growing Changping International Medical Equipment City, which already hosts dozens of high-tech firms. The park focuses on strategic areas such as high-value consumables, in-vitro diagnostics, and biomaterials, and has built a complete innovation chain from R&D to commercialization.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Beijing E-Town to accelerate development of data industry

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

    Beijing E-Town recently released a package of measures on accelerating the high-quality development of the data industry.

    According to the measures, the area will explore the establishment of an inclusive, prudent, and flexible regulatory model regarding data in fields such as autonomous driving, healthcare, financial consumption, and industrial manufacturing. It will promote the implementation of a liability exemption mechanism and strive to expand the boundaries of compliant data use.

    At the same time, efforts will be made to build a high-standard public data training base, explore a joint government-enterprise model for developing high-quality datasets, support enterprises in actively seeking authorization to operate central and local public data, and explore pricing mechanisms for public data authorization in areas such as autonomous driving and aerospace.

    To provide support for enterprises, the latest measures aim to establish a tiered subsidy system that ensures businesses’ broad accessibility to financing while focusing on key sectors.

    Specifically, an annual fund of 100 million yuan (US$14 million) in “data vouchers” will directly subsidize the purchase of data products, meeting the data usage needs of enterprises of all sizes. Up to 10 million yuan and 20 million yuan in support will be provided for data labeling service platforms and data circulation infrastructure, respectively, targeting key bottlenecks. For enterprises engaged in cross-border data compliance and related activities, subsidies ranging from 500,000 yuan to 1 million yuan will be offered to address critical challenges in the marketization of data as a production factor.

    The measures also aim at developing an industry cluster area. To foster the cluster, Beijing E-Town will support the development of data enterprise incubators and the establishment of shared spaces such as exhibition centers, co-working spaces, and roadshow centers. 

    Beijing E-Town will also build high-speed information networks by accelerating 5G signal enhancement and upgrading to 10-gigabit optical networks, as well as supporting the renovation and upgrading of communication infrastructure such as urban optical fiber networks. Additionally, inclusive and open computing power services will be provided, along with support for the transformation and upgrading of existing data centers.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: SCIO holds press briefing on historical significance of victory against Japanese aggression

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

    SCIO holds press briefing on historical significance of victory against Japanese aggression

    China SCIO | July 22, 2025

    On July 21, the State Council Information Office (SCIO) held a press briefing in Beijing about the historical significance of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. Scholars and experts from the Institute of Party History and Literature of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences attended the briefing.

    On July 21, 2025, the State Council Information Office holds a press briefing in Beijing about the historical significance of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. [Photo/China SCIO]

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    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Expansion of Shingrix® vaccine eligibility to all those who are severely immunosuppressed and aged 18 years and over letter

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Correspondence

    Expansion of Shingrix® vaccine eligibility to all those who are severely immunosuppressed and aged 18 years and over letter

    Information relating to the expansion of Shingrix® vaccine eligibility to all those who are severely immunosuppressed and aged 18 years and over.

    Documents

    Shingles vaccination programme: expansion of Shingrix® vaccine eligibility to all those who are severely immunosuppressed and aged 18 years and over

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    Annexe A: detailed information and guidance for healthcare professionals

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    Annexe B: supporting programme resources

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    Details

    From 1 September 2025 eligibility for the shingles vaccination programme will change to allow all severely immunosuppressed people aged 18 years and over to receive the shingles vaccine. This letter and annexes provides information about the forthcoming change.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 July 2025

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    MIL OSI United Kingdom –