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Category: AM-NC

  • MIL-OSI China: Virginia Woolf-inspired exhibit opens at Beijing bookstore

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

    Editor’s Note: The pop-up event “A Room of One’s Own,” running through Sept. 21 at PageOne Beijing Fun Bookstore , immerses visitors in a sensory literary environment inspired by Virginia Woolf’s seminal 1929 feminist essay. 

    The exhibition features a curated selection of cultural products alongside a recreated writing room, blending literature with design, intimacy and imagination.

    Divided into three connected sections, “A Room of One’s Own” presents literature not just as words on a page, but as physical space, everyday objects, and a source of emotional comfort.

    In the final section, visitors enter a detailed recreation of Woolf’s study, featuring sage-green walls, shelves filled with books, and a quiet fireplace. Items like a canvas bag with Woolf’s profile and a custom-made book cover emphasize how literature is now something people can carry with them, hold, and experience personally.

    The exterior signage for the pop-up exhibition “A Room of One’s Own” at the PageOne Beijing Fun Bookstore, July 29, 2025. The installation takes its name from Virginia Woolf’s 1929 essay advocating creative freedom and personal space. [Photo by Liu Ziying/China.org.cn]

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    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Disney to re-release ‘Zootopia’ in China ahead of sequel

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

    Disney will re-release its blockbuster animated film “Zootopia” in China in August, ahead of the highly anticipated sequel’s global debut in November, the company announced Wednesday.

    Posters for the “Zootopia” China re-release and “Zootopia 2.” [Photo courtesy of Walt Disney Animation Studios]

    “Zootopia” (2016), directed by Byron Howard, Rich Moore and Jared Bush, followed rabbit police officer Judy Hopps as she teamed up with fox Nick Wilde to investigate a conspiracy involving the disappearance of 14 predators in the animal city of Zootopia.

    The film won the Academy Award for best animated feature in 2017 and earned more than $1 billion worldwide, including 1.53 billion yuan ($236 million) in China, where it remains the top-grossing foreign animated film. The movie’s success led to a Zootopia-themed land at Shanghai Disney Resort that opened in late 2023.

    Walt Disney Animation Studios said the Chinese theatrical re-release will include a special trailer for “Zootopia 2” after the credits.

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    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Anna Politkovskaya-Arman Soldin Prize for Courage in Journalism – Call for applications

    Source: Republic of France in English
    The Republic of France has issued the following statement:

    The Anna Politkovskaya-Arman Soldin Prize for Courage in Journalism will be awarded for the third time in early November 2025, to coincide with the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists, established in 2013 by the United Nations at France’s initiative, in memory of French journalists Ghislaine Dupont and Claude Verlon, assassinated in Mali.

    The aim of this prize is to distinguish the work of journalists and photojournalists committed to carrying out their essential role of informing people, in particular in theatres of conflict or during crises.

    Through this prize, France reaffirms its steadfast commitment to the defence of freedom of the press and pays tribute to two emblematic figures of journalistic courage, killed in the performance of their duties. First, the Russian journalist Anna Politkovskaya, whose investigations published in the Novaya Gazeta on corruption, human rights violations and the war in Chechnya cost her her life, along with six of her colleagues. Second, the Franco-Bosnian AFP journalist and photojournalist Arman Soldin, killed on 9 May 2023 in the field, whose work helped inform the entire world of the reality of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine.

    In 2024, the jury decided to recognize the work of Yuval Abraha, Israeli journalist, and Basel Adra, a Palestinian journalist, which focused on Israel’s settlements in the West Bank. Both journalists also belong to the Israeli-Palestinian collective that produced the documentary “No Other Land” last year, which won an Oscar in 2025.

    Journalists wishing to apply for the 2025 prize may submit their application to presse.dcp at diplomatie.gouv.fr using this form, until midnight on 30 August 2025: download the form (Word – 37 Ko).

    The Prize is accompanied by a lump-sum of €10,000, which must be used to finance a project carried out by the prizewinner.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Euro area bank interest rate statistics: June 2025

    Source: European Central Bank

    31 July 2025

    Bank interest rates for corporations

    Chart 1

    Bank interest rates on new loans to, and deposits from, euro area corporations

    (percentages per annum)

    Data for cost of borrowing and deposit interest rates for corporations (Chart 1)

    The composite cost-of-borrowing indicator, which combines interest rates on all loans to corporations, decreased in June 2025. The interest rate on new loans of over €1 million with a floating rate and an initial rate fixation period of up to three months remained broadly unchanged at 3.29%. The rate on new loans of the same size with an initial rate fixation period of over three months and up to one year fell by 7 basis points to 3.41%. The interest rate on new loans of over €1 million with an initial rate fixation period of over ten years decreased by 17 basis points to 3.54%. In the case of new loans of up to €250,000 with a floating rate and an initial rate fixation period of up to three months, the average rate charged fell by 7 basis points to 3.71%.

    As regards new deposit agreements, the interest rate on deposits from corporations with an agreed maturity of up to one year fell by 12 basis points to 1.93% in June 2025. The interest rate on overnight deposits from corporations fell by 5 basis points to 0.53%.

    The interest rate on new loans to sole proprietors and unincorporated partnerships with a floating rate and an initial rate fixation period of up to one year decreased by 14 basis points to 3.97%.

    Table 1

    Bank interest rates for corporations

    i.r.f. = initial rate fixation
    * For this instrument category, the concept of new business is extended to the whole outstanding amounts and therefore the business volumes are not comparable with those of the other categories. Outstanding amounts data are derived from the ECB’s monetary financial institutions balance sheet statistics.

    Data for bank interest rates for corporations (Table 1)

    Bank interest rates for households

    Chart 2

    Bank interest rates on new loans to, and deposits from, euro area households

    Data for cost of borrowing and deposit interest rate for households (Chart 2)

    The composite cost-of-borrowing indicator, which combines interest rates on all loans to households for house purchase, showed no change in June 2025. The interest rate on loans for house purchase with a floating rate and an initial rate fixation period of up to one year decreased by 9 basis points to 3.61%. The rate on housing loans with an initial rate fixation period of over one and up to five years stayed almost constant at 3.41%. The interest rate on loans for house purchase with an initial rate fixation period of over five and up to ten years remained broadly unchanged at 3.47%. The rate on housing loans with an initial rate fixation period of over ten years stayed constant at 3.12%. In the same period the interest rate on new loans to households for consumption decreased by 13 basis points to 7.40%, driven by both the interest rate and the weight effects.

    As regards new deposits from households, the interest rate on deposits with an agreed maturity of up to one year decreased by 7 basis points to 1.77%. The rate on deposits redeemable at three months’ notice stayed almost constant at 1.44%. The interest rate on overnight deposits from households remained broadly unchanged at 0.27%.

    Table 2

    Bank interest rates for households

    i.r.f. = initial rate fixation
    * For this instrument category, the concept of new business is extended to the whole outstanding amounts and therefore the business volumes are not comparable with those of the other categories; deposits placed by households and corporations are allocated to the household sector. Outstanding amounts data are derived from the ECB’s monetary financial institutions balance sheet statistics.
    ** For this instrument category, the concept of new business is extended to the whole outstanding amounts and therefore the business volumes are not comparable with those of the other categories. Outstanding amounts data are derived from the ECB’s monetary financial institutions balance sheet statistics.

    Data for bank interest rates for households (Table 2)

    Further information

    The data in Tables 1 and 2 can be visualised for individual euro area countries on the bank interest rate statistics dashboard. Additionally, tables containing further breakdowns of bank interest rate statistics, including the composite cost-of-borrowing indicators for all euro area countries, are available from the ECB Data Portal. The full set of bank interest rate statistics for both the euro area and individual countries can be downloaded from ECB Data Portal. More information, including the release calendar, is available under “Bank interest rates” in the statistics section of the ECB’s website.

    For media queries, please contact Nicos Keranis, tel.: +49 69 1344 7806

    Notes:

    • In this press release “corporations” refers to non-financial corporations (sector S.11 in the European System of Accounts 2010, or ESA 2010), “households” refers to households and non-profit institutions serving households (ESA 2010 sectors S.14 and S.15) and “banks” refers to monetary financial institutions except central banks and money market funds (ESA 2010 sector S.122).
    • The composite cost-of-borrowing indicators are described in the article entitled “Assessing the retail bank interest rate pass-through in the euro area at times of financial fragmentation” in the August 2013 issue of the ECB’s Monthly Bulletin (see Box 1). For these indicators, a weighting scheme based on the 24-month moving averages of new business volumes has been applied, in order to filter out excessive monthly volatility. For this reason the developments in the composite cost of borrowing indicators in both tables cannot be explained by the month-on-month changes in the displayed subcomponents. Furthermore, the table on bank interest rates for corporations presents a subset of the series used in the calculation of the cost of borrowing indicator.
    • Interest rates on new business are weighted by the size of the individual agreements. This is done both by the reporting agents and when the national and euro area averages are computed. Thus changes in average euro area interest rates for new business reflect, in addition to changes in interest rates, changes in the weights of individual countries’ new business for the instrument categories concerned. The “interest rate effect” and the “weight effect” presented in this press release are derived from the Bennet index, which allows month-on-month developments in euro area aggregate rates resulting from changes in individual country rates (the “interest rate effect”) to be disentangled from those caused by changes in the weights of individual countries’ contributions (the “weight effect”). Owing to rounding, the combined “interest rate effect” and the “weight effect” may not add up to the month-on-month developments in euro area aggregate rates.
    • In addition to monthly euro area bank interest rate statistics for June 2025, this press release incorporates revisions to data for previous periods. Hyperlinks in the main body of the press release lead to data that may change with subsequent releases as a result of revisions. Unless otherwise indicated, these euro area statistics cover the EU Member States that had adopted the euro at the time to which the data relate.
    • As of reference period December 2014, the sector classification applied to bank interest rates statistics is based on the European System of Accounts 2010 (ESA 2010). In accordance with the ESA 2010 classification and as opposed to ESA 95, the non-financial corporations sector (S.11) now excludes holding companies not engaged in management and similar captive financial institutions.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Focus on economic empowerment and men’s violence against women

    Source: Government of Sweden

    There is a need to further explore the connections between economic empowerment and preventing men’s violence against women, including economic violence. The Swedish Presidency of the Council of the European Union will therefore arrange a conference on this theme on 1–2 February. Sweden’s Minister for Gender Equality and Deputy Minister for Employment Paulina Brandberg will open the conference. In addition, European Commissioner for Equality Helena Dalli and Carlien Scheele, European Institute for Gender Equality Director will participate.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Entry restrictions on travel from China to be lifted, but Government continues to monitor developments

    Source: Government of Sweden

    At a press conference on 16 February, Minister for Social Affairs and Public Health Jakob Forssmed announced that the temporary entry restrictions on travel from China will be lifted. The restrictions meant that travellers from China were required to present a negative COVID-19 test result. The temporary entry restrictions will cease to apply on 18 February 2023.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Underwriting Auction for sale of Government Securities for ₹32,000 crore on August 01, 2025

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    Government of India has announced the sale (re-issue) of Government Securities, as detailed below, through auctions to be held on August 01, 2025 (Friday).

    As per the extant scheme of underwriting commitment notified on November 14, 2007, the amounts of Minimum Underwriting Commitment (MUC) and the minimum bidding commitment under Additional Competitive Underwriting (ACU) auction, applicable to each Primary Dealer (PD), are as under:

    (₹ crore)
    Security Notified Amount  MUC amount per PD Minimum bidding commitment per PD under ACU auction
    6.68% GS 2040 16,000 381 381
    6.90% GS 2065 16,000 381 381

    The underwriting auction will be conducted through multiple price-based method on August 01, 2025 (Friday). PDs may submit their bids for ACU auction electronically through Core Banking Solution (E-Kuber) System between 09:00 A.M. and 09:30 A.M. on the day of underwriting auction.

    The underwriting commission will be credited to the current account of the respective PDs with RBI on the day of issue of securities.

    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    

    Press Release: 2025-2026/813

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • Myanmar forms commission led by junta chief to hold elections, state media says

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Myanmar’s ruling junta announced the formation of a 11-member commission led by military chief Min Aung Hlaing to hold an election in the war-torn country, state media reported on Thursday.

    The junta did not announce a date for the election and Min Aung Hlaing will continue to effectively remain in charge of the country, in his capacity as the interim president who will oversee the vote, MRTV reported.

    The proposed election, which Min Aung Hlaing on Wednesday confirmed would take place in December, will be the first national vote since a 2021 coup sparked a civil war and plunged the Southeast Asian nation into chaos.

    Min Aung Hlaing will remain commander in chief of the armed forces while serving as interim president.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Petrofund Launches Flagship Scholarship to Empower Namibian Youth in Oil and Gas

    Source: APO

    Namibia’s Petroleum Training and Education Fund (Petrofund) officially launched its flagship scholarship program during the 2nd Youth in Oil and Gas Summit, reinforcing its commitment to building a highly skilled national workforce for the country’s burgeoning oil and gas sector. The new scholarship complements the Namibian government’s free tertiary education policy by fully funding undergraduate and postgraduate students in engineering, geosciences, paramedics and technical vocational training disciplines relevant to upstream oil and gas operations. Courses will be offered at accredited institutions across the Southern African Development Community region and internationally.

    As the voice of the African energy sector, the African Energy Chamber (AEC) commends Petrofund’s leadership and forward-thinking strategy to anchor Namibian youth at the core of the country’s growing energy economy. With major discoveries in the Orange Basin and increasing momentum towards first oil, initiatives like this are essential to ensure local capacity meets international operational standards.

    In addition to its flagship scholarship program, Petrofund has introduced several strategic initiatives to accelerate youth integration into Namibia’s oil and gas industry. Through its expanded on-the-job training program, more than 82 young professionals have been deployed across various technical roles in collaboration with premier service and operating companies including TechnipFMC, SBM, Subsea 7, Baker Hughes, Halliburton, SLB, BW Energy, Shell, ReconAfrica, TotalEnergies and QatarEnergy. Petrofund has also signed ten memoranda of understanding to deepen these partnerships and enhance practical industry exposure. Additionally, the government-led fund is developing a national oil and gas CV repository – set to launch in Q4 2025 – to bridge the gap between skilled graduates and industry demand.

    Petrofund is also strengthening its collaboration with Namibian institutions of higher learning. Partners include the Namibia University of Science and Technology and University of Namibia, along with regulatory authorities such as the Namibia Qualifications Authority; National Council for Higher Education; Namibia Training Authority; and Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports, Art and Culture. This initiative aims to introduce and accredit more oil and gas-related programs locally, enhancing access to technical education aligned with global industry standards. To date, Petrofund has invested over N$115 million to support 438 Namibians in petroleum-related studies, achieving a 90% internship and employment placement rate for its Master’s level beneficiaries.

    As Namibia progresses towards final investment decisions for high-impact offshore projects led by operators such as TotalEnergies and Shell, this program ensure that Namibians are equipped with the technical expertise to actively participate and lead in-country value creation. Imminent first production means Petrofund’s holistic approach to human capital development can align with the country’s Local Content Policy and sets the foundation for long-term, inclusive growth. The AEC supports these efforts as a model for Africa’s youth empowerment in energy.

    “Petrofund is setting the standard for what youth empowerment in Africa’s energy sector should look like. By aligning skills development with industry demand and embracing inclusivity, Namibia is not just preparing its young people for jobs – it’s preparing them for leadership. The Chamber fully supports these efforts, which will ensure that Namibians are not just bystanders, but key drivers of their energy future,” states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, AEC.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

    Media files

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    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Op-Ed: Financing Energy Access in Africa: Leveraging Fossil Fuel Revenues to End Energy Poverty

    Source: APO

    NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber
     

    In an emissions-focused world, do oil and gas revenues have a role to play in ending energy poverty in Africa? It may sound counterintuitive, but many would argue that they do, albeit as enablers of a future powered by alternative energy sources.  

    The key lies in recognizing that Africa’s situation is unique, and solutions take time, building on what we have and what we can do with it. This means that, in working towards a just energy transition, the continent’s oil and gas resources shouldn’t be viewed as obstacles that need to be immediately replaced by renewable energy sources. Instead, rather than prematurely phasing out fossil fuels in response to global pressure, Africa should harness these revenues responsibly to finance its energy transition and ultimately eradicate energy poverty. 

    Prioritizing Development Alongside Sustainability 

    Nearly 600 million Africans still live without access to electricity (https://apo-opa.co/3IV6Rd8). This access is a fundamental human right, yet energy poverty remains one of the continent’s most significant barriers to development. This undermines health systems, education, industrialization, and dignity. As the world debates how to rapidly achieve net-zero, Africa’s priority is different: how to power its people now, while building a sustainable future. 

    Measuring Africa’s energy transition progress against external calls for an abrupt end to fossil fuels risks leaving millions behind. Our continent contributes less than 4% (https://apo-opa.co/40Ilfvu) to global emissions, yet we are expected to decarbonize at the same pace as industrialized nations that built their wealth on hydrocarbons. 

    Instead, the continent’s abundance of fossil fuels should be viewed as a bridge, not a barrier. The African Energy Chamber (AEC) Africa-Paris Declaration (https://apo-opa.co/4l4JTO2) underscores this principle – Africa’s oil and gas revenues can and must be used as a financial lever to invest in electrification, clean energy, and infrastructure projects. This pragmatic and just approach prioritizes development alongside sustainability, not instead of.  

    There are several ways to achieve this. First, reinvesting oil and gas revenues into rural electrification can transform communities. Decentralized solutions like off-grid solar and mini-grids offer practical ways to reach remote areas. Although urban dwellers do experience power outages, for many rural populations, it’s a way of life. For the mother cooking with firewood or the student studying by candlelight, a small solar grid is life-changing. Fossil fuel revenues can finance these systems at scale, bridging the immediate access gap while longer-term grid expansions are in progress.  

    Second, establishing innovative financing mechanisms is essential. For instance, the fledgling Africa Energy Bank (https://apo-opa.co/4laFrh1) aims to bridge the continent’s estimated $31 billion to $50 billion annual energy funding gap by focusing predominantly on financing energy projects. Launched in 2025, the bank is poised to play a transformative role in mobilizing capital for African energy projects. Additionally, global investors are increasingly exploring energy investment opportunities in Africa. In support of this, development finance institutions, such as the African Development Bank, the World Bank, and the International Finance Corporation, are de-risking investments by offering concessional loans, guarantees, and technical assistance, making investment in African energy projects more attractive.  

    Third, policy reforms that create enabling environments are critical. Here, governments have a role to play in prioritizing revenue-generating projects, creating stable regulatory frameworks, and offering incentives for public-private partnerships. This will support investment, reduce risks, and unlock the transformative power of energy access. 

    These solutions demonstrate the importance of a fair and equitable transition and the vital role that fossil fuels will continue to play in achieving this goal. They also prove that this goal is achievable, even if it is on the continent’s own terms. 

    Unique Solutions to Africa’s Energy Challenges 

    Africa’s path to net-zero has the same end goal as the rest of the world, but it can’t mirror their journey. Our starting points are different, and our development needs are urgent. We understand that climate action can’t be delayed. But it can be just, inclusive, and rooted in African realities. And it can also be supported by revenues from our abundant natural resources.   

    The Africa-Paris Declaration notes that ‘a fair transition recognizes that fossil fuels remain valuable for Africa’s development, prosperity, and energy access goals. Africa doesn’t need to choose between oil and gas or renewables. Given our current position, all are important and require both strategic and sensible deployment. Fossil fuels generate the revenues to invest in solar, wind, hydropower, and grid infrastructure. They fuel industries that create jobs. They support healthcare, education, and innovation. 

    When managed responsibly, Africa’s fossil fuel revenue can serve as a bridge to a brighter, greener, and more prosperous continent. Will it be quick and easy? No. Will some question the approach? Most certainly. But the alternative is leaving hundreds of millions of people in the dark. 

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of TotalEnergies.

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    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: 5 Reasons to Consider Payroll Outsourcing

    Source: APO

    Accurate and timely payroll impacts costs, tax compliance, and employee morale. Many organisations assume that insourced payroll is inherently superior. Yet in today’s dynamic business environment, this assumption can be more costly. It can burden valuable personnel, increase compliance risks, and saddle organisations with expensive, yet obsolete, software.

    Workplaces are becoming more complex through a wide variety of employment conditions, frequent regulation changes, and growth risks (especially when operating in multiple regions). Payroll systems don’t always keep up, which is why over a third of companies are dissatisfied with their internal payroll systems (http://apo-opa.co/45tJ0Ko).

    “The importance of accurate and timely payroll is undeniable. But assuming that insourcing payroll is inherently superior misses the mark. In today’s dynamic business environment, clinging to outdated internal systems is costly, diverts valuable personnel, and complicates software management,” says Heinrich Swanepoel, Head of Business Development at Deel Local Payroll, powered by PaySpace.

    Outsourced payroll’s strategic advantages

    Outsourcing payroll is a strategic move that adds scale and flexibility to an organisation’s operations. Whether it’s for five or five thousand employees, one office or multiple countries, using an experienced and technologically capable outsourced payroll provider creates crucial advantages in workforce management and adaptability.

    Here are five key reasons why payroll outsourcing is a game-changer:

    1. Remove Legacy System Limitations and Costs: Outdated payroll software an expose you to delays, errors, and fragmented workflows. Outsourcing with modern technology provides flexibility. Providers can efficiently handle payroll tasks regardless of onboarding surges, market expansions, or workforce adjustments.
    1. Empower Staff for Higher-Impact Work: Outsourced experts add knowledge, coupled with payroll automation, secure collaboration tools, data integration, and enhanced financial visibility. They help key personnel in payroll, HR, and finance to focus on strategic, high-value priorities.
    1. Navigate Payroll Compliance: Outsourcing specialists make it their business to know local and international tax rules, labour laws, and data regulations. They use software with built-in compliance checks, audit trails, and secure document tracking. The provider shares and even inherits the responsibility of payroll software compliance such as GDPR, POPIA, SOC 1 & 2, and ISO 27001.
    1. Flexible payroll management: Outsourced payroll providers use scalable and flexible software to align with organisational changes, enabling their clients to adapt without reconfiguring payroll departments with restructuring or new hires.
    1. Access Advanced Features: Keeping up with new features and aligning them with operations is expensive and disruptive. Outsourced payroll providers introduce cutting-edge technologies like cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and data analytics as part of their core business strategies. They offer seamless integration with client business systems for real-time, fully compliant payroll operations that the client controls without adding technical risks.

    Evaluating an outsourced payroll partner

    Outsourcing payroll creates huge advantages. But not all outsourced payroll providers are the same. The best candidates combine human expertise with the advantages of modern cloud-native payroll platforms.

    To evaluate a provider, test their payroll expertise and compliance knowledge. Security and data protection are non-negotiable, and assess their track record with other clients. Look at what software they use—the capabilities of the software and how well their people can use those features are as important as the staff’s professional capabilities. Are they masters of their tools as well as their craft?

    Interrogate their service levels and how they extend capabilities to clients, such as self-service and ad hoc reporting. Evaluate the technology platform in terms of real-time data access, automated calculations, integration with HR and accounting tools, and compliance.

    “Outsourcing payroll isn’t just about saving time — it’s a strategic move that positions your business for growth, compliance, and agility,” says Swanepoel. “With the right partner, you can reduce costs, streamline operations, and focus your energy where it matters most: on your people and your business.”

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Deel Local Payroll, powered by PaySpace.

    For media queries please contact:
    Victoria Lindsay:
    victoria@innocomm.co.za.

    About Deel Local Payroll:
    Deel Local Payroll, powered by PaySpace (www.PaySpace.com), revolutionises payroll management. It offers online, multi-country payroll and HR management for businesses from start-ups through to enterprise in over 40 African countries, the United Kingdom, the Middle East, and Brazil.

    Cloud-native, Deel Local Payroll, is scalable, configurable, highly secure, and easy-to-use—delivering anytime, anywhere access. It features payroll automation, self-service features, automatic legislation and feature updates, customised reporting, and more.

    Since 2024, Deel Local Payroll has been part of Deel, operating as an independent subsidiary, serving its customers through the PaySpace platform. 

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    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Bold Sports marks major digital milestone during Super Falcons’ Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2024 victory

    Source: APO

    Bold Sports (www.BoldSportsng.com), Nigeria’s emerging digital sports media platform, announced today that it recorded unprecedented audience growth across its digital platforms during the recently concluded Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2024, where the Super Falcons lifted their 10th continental title.

    From July 5 to 26, 2025, the tournament period saw Bold Sports significantly increase its reach and engagement across its digital platforms, positioning it as one of the most active and influential sports content creators in Nigeria during the championship.

    On Facebook, Bold Sports attracted over 18 million video views, with reach climbing to over 4 million users and visits increasing by around 120% to over 120,000. The engagement also rose by over 141% to 1.2 million, while the platform gained more than 65,000 new followers, bringing its total Facebook community to over 130,000 followers.

    TikTok content during the same period recorded over 1.2 million video views, with 90,000 likes, over 13,000 profile views, and a significant increase in user engagement, including comments and shares from football fans across the continent.

    The official website, www.BoldSportsng.com, crossed 20,000 page views, while the brand’s YouTube channel registered over 146,000 views, fueled largely by interactive watch-along sessions and fan commentary during matchdays.

    “The Super Falcons’ journey to a 10th WAFCON title was a historic moment for Nigerian football, and we were proud to capture it with the energy and passion it deserved,” CEO and Editor-in-Chief of Bold Sports, Tosin Oluwalowo, said. “We made a clear decision to cover the tournament from a fan-first, Nigerian perspective — and the numbers show that our audience responded powerfully to that approach.”

    “Bold Sports really came through during WAFCON,” Tolu Onigbinde, a Nigerian football fan based in Lagos said. “It wasn’t just the scores from the matches, they made us feel like part of the journey. From the behind-the-scenes stories to the fan banter and post-match reactions, it felt fresh. I followed everything through them.”

    Chief Operating Officer and Managing Editor, Kelvin Ekerete, added: “What we’ve seen in the past few weeks validates our belief that Nigerian fans want relatable, and quality content. Our team worked tirelessly across formats and the audience stayed with us every step of the way.”

    The Super Falcons sealed their historic title win by defeating host nation Morocco 1–0 in the final played in Casablanca. The victory also marked the successful achievement of the Nigeria Football Federation’s “Mission X” campaign, which was launched prior to the tournament with the goal of winning Nigeria’s 10th WAFCON crown

    Throughout the tournament, Bold Sports delivered dynamic coverage, including pre-match previews, behind-the-scenes, player features, match reactions, and engaging social commentary that resonated deeply with fans in Nigeria and across Africa.

    The growth achieved during WAFCON 2024 highlights Bold Sports’ rising status as a trusted voice in Nigerian sports media, and underlines the company’s mission to tell Nigerian sports stories through a proudly local, digital-first lens.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Bold Sports.

    Media Contact:
    admin@boldsportsng.com

    Follow Us:
    Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/44Udy7Z
    Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/45hZV1v
    X: https://apo-opa.co/3UFg4ZG
    TikTok: https://apo-opa.co/3IRIxJi

    About Bold Sports:
    Bold Sports, published by Bold Media Innovations & Creative Hub Limited, is Nigeria’s leading digital sports media platform, providing high-quality, data-driven coverage of Nigerian athletes at home and abroad. Through video, storytelling, and real-time engagement, Bold Sports connects a passionate community of fans with the moments that matter — from grassroots to global competitions.

    With a bold, multimedia-first approach, we celebrate Nigeria’s sporting excellence and foster national pride across generations and geographies.

    Motto: Boldly Nigerian. Passionately Sporty.

    Website: www.BoldSportsng.com

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    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s new growth drivers see rapid expansion

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

    China’s new growth drivers continued to expand steadily in 2024, contributing a greater share to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP), official data showed Thursday.

    The value-added output of these emerging sectors, comprising new industries, new business formats, and new business models, increased by 6.7 percent year on year last year, the National Bureau of Statistics said.

    Their share of GDP rose to 18.01 percent in 2024, marking a 0.43 percentage point increase from the previous year.

    Meanwhile, recent data showed that the country’s high-tech sectors sustained rapid expansion in the first half of 2025, with value-added industrial output in high-tech manufacturing rising by 9.5 percent. This growth rate was 3.1 percentage points higher than that of the overall industrial output during the same period.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese products deliver cool comforts to world amid heatwaves

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

    As global temperatures hit record highs and heatwaves blanket most of the Northern Hemisphere, Chinese manufacturers are stepping up with innovative cooling solutions, from advanced textiles to smart gadgets, to meet surging global demand for heat relief.

    At a new material technology company in east China’s Zhejiang Province, a batch of cooling fabric rolled off the production line and was then neatly packaged before being loaded into 18 containers for export.

    Measuring approximately 4 million meters in length, this load of fabric, valued at more than 7 million yuan (roughly 980,000 U.S. dollars), will be sold to markets in the Middle East, Europe and North America.

    Since 2021, this cool-touch material has driven average annual sales growth of about 25 percent for its manufacturer Yibei, a company based in the city of Huzhou in northern Zhejiang, while delivering heat-relief solutions to consumers worldwide, said Zhu Yifan, general manager of Yibei.

    Originally designed as a garment lining, this material’s affordability and skin-friendly comfort have fueled unexpected demand for it as a primary fabric, especially after the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, when it gained viral traction in countries like Türkiye, Egypt, Iran and the United Arab Emirates to make scarves and robes.

    The EU-funded Copernicus Climate Change Service has confirmed the year 2024, recording a global average temperature of 15.1 degrees Celsius, as the warmest year globally since 1850, and June 2025 as the world’s third-warmest June on record, reaching 16.46 degrees Celsius globally.

    Amid the global warming trend, Chinese textile manufacturers like Yibei are innovating their products and scaling production to satisfy surging demand for cooling products.

    On JD.com, a major Chinese e-commerce platform, searches for “cool touch” products reveal nearly 20 cooling items, including towels, bedsheets and pillows. The best-selling cooling towel has surpassed 4 million orders, with its inner layer containing menthol and other active cooling ingredients that release long-lasting coolness when exposed to water.

    “With intensifying global climate change and consumers’ increasing pursuit of quality of life, the demand for cooling products has prompted companies to explore different materials, techniques and functional cooling products,” said Dai Junming, an industrial expert of the modern textile technology innovation center of Zhejiang.

    A leading province in China’s textile industry, Zhejiang exported textiles and apparel worth 92 billion U.S. dollars in 2024, accounting for more than 30 percent of the country’s total.

    The cooling boom is not limited to textiles. Data from Alibaba.com, the cross-border B2B platform of China’s e-commerce giant Alibaba, show that portable mini fans, mobile air conditioners, ice makers, double-door refrigerators and freezers have emerged as popular purchased categories over the past month — with sales surging nearly 77 percent and orders increasing by 56 percent year on year.

    Before Father’s Day this year, a U.S. content creator recommended a hat as a gift in her short video on TikTok, amassing over 9 million views and sparking a buying frenzy.

    The star of the video — a sun hat designed with two solar-powered fans aimed at delivering a cool summer experience — hails from the city of Yiwu, also in Zhejiang, which is renowned as a small commodity hub that trades with over 230 countries and regions.

    At Zhejiang Senwai Garments Co., Ltd., which holds the patent for this fan hat’s production and R&D, General Manager Jiang Yongtao revealed that the hat, priced at almost 40 U.S. dollars, began test-marketing in March before surging to popularity two months later.

    Within just 28 days of its official launch, 11,100 units were sold, generating over 3.2 million yuan in revenue. To date, the company has sold some 500,000 units of these fan hats.

    “The hat provides both shade and cooling relief,” Jiang said, noting that the miniature fans can also be charged by USB on cloudy days.

    The company is also developing a winter version — a heated cap intended to transform headwear from mere accessories to therapeutic tools, thereby extending the reach of this “made-in-China” phenomenon beyond summer.

    “Hit products may become outdated, but the ability to consistently identify needs and create bestsellers never will,” Jiang said. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Serious crash Ethelton

    Source: New South Wales – News

    Police are on the scene of a serious crash at Ethelton.

    Just after 5pm today emergency services were called to the intersection of Maud Street and Carlisle Street after reports of a crash involving a motorbike.

    Carlisle Road is currently closed to traffic.

    Major Crash Investigators are attending the scene.

    Please avoid the area.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Arrest after fatal crash at Tranmere

    Source: New South Wales – News

    A man has been arrested following a fatal crash last week.

    A pedestrian was struck by a Honda sedan on Glynburn Road, near Richardson Avenue, Tranmere, just before 6am on Friday 25 July.

    Sadly, the 53-year-old Tranmere woman died at the scene.

    Neither the driver, a 21-year-old Hectorville man, nor his 24-year-old passenger were physically injured in the collision.

    Today, Thursday 31 July, Major Crash Investigators arrested the driver of the Honda. He has been charged with causing death by dangerous driving.

    He was granted police bail to appear in Adelaide Magistrates Court on 15 October.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: OLAF Director-General Ville Itälä concludes 7-year mandate

    Source: European Anti-Fraud Offfice

    Press release no. 23/2025

    PDF version

    The European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) announces the departure of Ville Itälä, who has concluded his non-renewable seven-year term as Director-General of OLAF. Itälä played a pivotal role in strengthening the EU’s fight against fraud. During his tenure, OLAF closed 1,588 investigations, recommended the recovery of over €4 billion in misused EU funds, and prevented the undue spending of more than €810 million. 

    Appointed in 2018, Mr Itälä led OLAF through a period marked by major challenges and unprecedented developments in the protection of the European Union’s financial interests – from the COVID-19 pandemic, during which OLAF prevented the undue spending of billions on fake medical supplies and vaccines, to the EU’s response to Russian invasion of Ukraine, where OLAF worked to enforce sanctions and bolster Ukraine’s anti-fraud system. 

    During Mr Itälä’s tenure, OLAF successfully concluded numerous high-profile investigations and reinforced its role as a central pillar in the EU’s anti-fraud architecture. Moreover, over the course of seven years, OLAF continuously improved its effectiveness, built capacity and competences, helped to recover misused funds, protected citizens’ health and safety and safeguarded the environment. 

    Mr Itälä also enhanced OLAF’s cooperation with key anti-fraud partners including the European Court of Auditors (ECA) Europol, Eurojust, as well as the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO), whose creation he witnessed.

    “It has been an honour to lead OLAF in its vital mission of protecting European taxpayers’ money and promoting integrity within the EU institutions. I am proud of what we have achieved together – from strengthening OLAF’s investigative capabilities to fostering strong partnerships across Europe and beyond. I extend my sincere thanks to my colleagues and partners for their unwavering dedication and professionalism,” said Ville Itälä. 

    With the conclusion of Mr Itälä’s mandate, current Deputy Director-General Salla Saastamoinen will assume the role of Acting Director-General of OLAF as of 1 August 2025, ensuring continuity of leadership until the appointment of a new Director-General, the selection process of which is ongoing. 

    OLAF remains fully committed to its mission to detect, investigate and prevent fraud and other illicit activities affecting the EU budget. The Office will continue its work in close cooperation with national, EU and international partners to safeguard Union’s financial interests. 

    Background 

    In line with procedures, the Director-General is appointed via a competitive selection process, followed by public hearings at the European Parliament and a formal appointment by the European Commission. As of the end of July 2025, the selection procedure remains in progress, with candidates being evaluated in accordance with applicable rules.

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

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

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

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

    For further details:

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

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

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: MHRA outlines intent to speed up patient access to innovative medical devices

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    MHRA outlines intent to speed up patient access to innovative medical devices

    Statement of Policy Intent sets out initial thinking on a new Early Access service to help patients benefit sooner from innovative medical devices that address unmet clinical needs.

    The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is setting out its intention to enable earlier access to innovative medical devices that address unmet clinical needs within the NHS. As part of this, capability will be invested to establish a new Early Access service to provide time-limited, conditional access to promising technologies ahead of full regulatory approval, where there is clear clinical need and supporting evidence of benefit for patients.

    Designed to support innovators, including small and medium-sized enterprises, the Early Access service aims to help bring safe and effective medical devices to patients more quickly. Focus initially will be on innovative diagnostic devices, particularly those supporting the NHS’s most urgent needs.  

    This forms part of the MHRA’s wider contribution to the UK Government’s Life Sciences Sector Plan and the 10-Year Health Plan, and supports the UK’s ambition to be a global leader in medical device innovation.

    The Early Access service will use learnings from the Unmet Clinical Need Authorisation (UCNA) tool piloted in the Innovative Devices Access Pathway (IDAP), and be shaped by stakeholder engagement with key sector representatives.

    The initiative sits within a broader programme of regulatory reform, including strengthened post-market surveillance and increased international collaboration. The MHRA will continue to work with industry, clinicians, NHS leaders and other partners to shape the pathway and support growth across the UK MedTech sector.

    Notes to editors  

    1. For more information on the statement of policy intent, visit [Statement of Policy Intent: Early Access to Innovative Medical Devices] (https://gov.uk/government/publications/statement-of-policy-intent-early-access-to-innovative-medical-devices)

    2. For more information on the Innovative Devices Accelerated Pathway (IDAP) visit the MHRA website: The Innovative Devices Access Pathway (IDAP) – GOV.UK

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Ofqual to fine WJEC after 1,500 GCSE students received wrong results

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Ofqual to fine WJEC after 1,500 GCSE students received wrong results

    Awarding body faces £350,000 penalty for breaches that led to incorrect grades and reviews of marking failures that affected nearly 4,000 other exam papers.

    Ofqual is to fine awarding organisation WJEC £350,000 in total for breaching exams rules in 2 separate cases – including one that meant over 1,500 students received the wrong GCSE grades on results day. 

    The 1,527 students who received the incorrect results had taken WJEC’s Eduqas GCSE Food Preparation and Nutrition qualification in summer 2024. 

    WJEC had failed to adjust teachers’ marking of coursework – which made up 50% of the qualification – to ensure results were in line with national standards. 

    It subsequently found that, while 17,610 results did not need to be changed, 847 students received lower grades and 680 got higher grades than they should have.  

    The students who received the incorrect lower grades were eventually issued with the correct grade in October 2024. In considering Ofqual guidance, WJEC decided those who received the incorrect higher grades should keep them, to avoid unfairly penalising students who may have already used those results.  

    Ofqual is set to fine WJEC £175,000 for this case, caused by an error in WJEC’s external moderation of teachers’ marking. 

    In the second case, WJEC reported that between 2017 and 2023 it had allowed 3,926 exam papers, out of 120,094 reviews of marking across 38 Ofqual-regulated qualifications, to be reviewed by the same assessors who had originally marked at least part of them, breaking regulations. 

    In this case, WJEC will be fined another £175,000 for breaching its Conditions of Recognition concerning how it conducted ‘reviews of marking’. 

    One student had their grade increased in 2024 after a fully independent review of marking was conducted. In response to the incident, WJEC issued credit notes as financial compensation to schools and colleges, for all affected reviews, totalling just over £219,000. 

    Amanda Swann, Ofqual’s Executive Director for General Qualifications, said:

    Students must be able to trust that their results accurately reflect their performance, and what they know, understand and can do. 

    These proposed fines reflect the serious nature of WJEC’s failures and our commitment to protecting the interests of students and maintaining the integrity of our qualifications system. This includes the requirement that GCSE, AS and A levels students are entitled to an independent review of their exam marks.

    Ofqual’s enforcement panel concluded a fine was appropriate and also took into account several mitigating factors. These included that WJEC had admitted the breaches, fully accepted responsibility, taken steps to prevent the problems happening again, and engaged fully with Ofqual. 

    Ofqual has today published 2 Notice of Intention (to accept a settlement proposal) documents for each case against WJEC. The documents give more details of the cases and invite interested parties to make representations ahead of final decisions:

    We continue to work closely with WJEC to ensure the mitigations they have put in place for this summer and subsequent exam series are effective. 

    Background information 

    Ofqual’s Taking Regulatory Action Policy  sets out how it will use its powers to take regulatory action.

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Flagship play centre for disabled children

    Source: Scottish Government

    Three-year funding commitment supports expanded play and family support.

    A charity that supports disabled children and young people and their families can provide 300 more places throughout the year after opening new premises in Glasgow for the first time.

    The dedicated play centre, supported with £500,000 from the Scottish Government, joins existing premises in Dundee, Fife and Edinburgh where The Yard supports disabled children and young people, and their families.

    The new facility provides children with a sensory room, play hall and outdoor space, while also providing a meeting room for parents and carers to receive family support.

    The Scottish Government funding is part of a £2 million commitment over three years from 2024-25 to support The Yard to grow its services, including tailored support, and expand its spaces for disabled children and young people to play and socialise.

    Children and Young People’s Minister Natalie Don-Innes officially opened the new facility and joined a family session as part of The Yard’s school holiday programme.

    Ms Don-Innes said:

    “Working with charities is vital to improving outcomes for disabled children and their families. Our three-year funding will help The Yard to continue to grow and support more families across Scotland.

    “This wonderful new facility, backed by £500,000 Scottish Government funding, has allowed the Yard to expand to new premises in Glasgow for the first time. The smiles on the faces of the children and families who rely on The Yard for support show what a difference this service makes to their lives.”

    Celine Sinclair, CEO of The Yard said;

    “We are incredibly proud to launch our new Glasgow service, building on the success of our centres in Edinburgh, Dundee and Fife. The Yard team provide exemplary, safe, inclusive spaces where children can play, grow and connect, while families feel supported, empowered and included. We are just thrilled to be in the West of Scotland and would like to thank Scottish Government and our funders for helping us realise this ambition.

    “Working alongside our partners in Glasgow, this new service builds on our legacy and expands our reach to meet the needs of families and schools. As we continue developing The Yard into a nationally recognised Centre of Excellence, the opening of our Glasgow centre marks a major step forward in our mission to inspire and to help build meaningful inclusion across the country.”

    Background

    Up to £2 million funding for The Yard over three financial years from 2024-25 was confirmed in October 2023, subject to due diligence and approval of the budget by the Scottish Parliament.

    Providing this additional capital and resource funding has enabled The Yard to take forward development of a site in Glasgow and refurbishment in Dundee and to expand their existing services in Edinburgh and Fife.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Exciting new future for waterfront location

    Source: City of Plymouth

    One of the Plymouth’s waterfront locations is set for an exciting future thanks to a long-term agreement with Cattewater Harbour Commissioners.

    A 30-year lease on Commercial Wharf on Madeira Road is to be granted to the commissioners who want to invest, improve and manage the location, to continue to grow the visitor economy of marine visitors to our city from the water.

    The wharf is already home to 19 boathouses, which are used for a variety of commercial purposes, including marine, storage and leisure. The site includes the quay wall, a 17th century quay from the Mayflower Steps to a public access slipway as well as a public open space.

    The commissioner’s plan is to make the area a destination in itself, to create a more welcoming feel to this historic wharf, to attract more tourists, events, visitors and marine tourism including cruise, tall ships, superyacht and leisure passengers embarking or disembarking from the nearby Barbican Landing Stage, and visitor moorings.

    Cattewater Harbour Commissioners (CHC) took back ownership and responsibility for managing and maintaining the Barbican Landing Stage from the Council in early 2023 – a decision that not only saved the Council future maintenance costs, but meant that, CHC, as the Statutory Harbour Authority, had better access to resources and expertise to maintain the safe operation of the facility.

    Council leader Tudor Evans said: “We constantly review all our assets and as we have said before, try to find creative solutions for some of our properties that can unlock jobs, opportunities and prospects – and this certainly hits the mark.

    “It just makes sense for the wider good of the city. We do not have the resources or the expertise to carry out repairs to the sea wall – they do.

    “We still retain the long-term interest in the wharf, but this deal will allow the commissioners to create something special and look after this landmark using the expertise they have on tap. I can’t wait to see what they do!”

    Captain Richard Allan, CEO and Harbour Master, Cattewater Harbour Commissioners: “As we continue to grow the number of visiting leisure vessels to the Port, and invest in nearby facilities including toilets and showers, it’s a logical next step that we take on the lease of the wharf.

    “We have thousands of visitors who’s first experience of Plymouth is coming ashore at Commercial Wharf, we want to make this experience better, and we’re looking forward to ensuring the site provides one of the best step off points in the South West.”

    Cattewater Harbour is a trust port, an independent statutory body. There are no shareholders, or owners, and any surplus generated is reinvested into the port for the benefit of its stakeholders.

    Since April 2020, the Council’s Facilities Management have spent over £400,000 including over £300,000 on capital repairs to the sea wall. Significant capital expenditure, major repair and maintenance issues remain.

    As part of the tenancy agreement CHC will ensure the wharf remains in good repair – including structures, surfaces and sea walls. They will also be responsible for keeping the public spaces neat and tidy and have agreed to invest in critical maintenance and improvements to the site.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: York welcomes over £1 million to tackle economic inactivity

    Source: City of York

    The Get Britain Working Trailblazer programme is aimed at reducing economic inactivity and supporting residents into good jobs, volunteering, and training opportunities.

    The funding, totalling £1,038,250, comes from the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority (YNYCA) and will support a wide range of local projects targeting groups most affected by long-term unemployment, including young people, disabled residents, unpaid carers, and veterans.

    Peter Roderick, Director of Public Health at City of York Council, said:

    “This funding is a real opportunity to make a difference in the lives of York residents who face barriers to employment due to health or personal circumstances. We’re proud to be delivering a programme that puts people first—offering tailored support, improving wellbeing, and helping individuals find meaningful work. It’s about building a healthier, more inclusive city.”

    Cllr Pete Kilbane, Deputy Leader and Executive Member for Economy & Culture, added:

    “This investment aligns perfectly with our Economic Strategy and our ambition to create good jobs and a thriving local economy. By working with partners across the city, we’re scaling up what works and piloting new, innovative approaches. It’s a bold step forward in unlocking York’s hidden talent and ensuring no one is left behind.”

    The funding will support 15 York-specific schemes, including mental health hubs, youth mentoring, workplace health checks, and employer engagement initiatives. It also complements wider regional programmes such as wage subsidies and primary care interventions.

    The Council has committed to delivering all projects within the 2025/26 financial year, with a focus on collaboration, innovation, and measurable impact. A report detailing the funding will go to a joint councillor decision session on 5 August.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Philippines is a troublemaker in the South China Sea – Chinese Defense Ministry

    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 30 (Xinhua) — The Philippines is a troublemaker and a source of danger in the South China Sea (SCS), Chinese Defense Ministry spokesman Zhang Xiaogang said.

    Zhang Xiaogang made the remarks at a press conference on Wednesday, commenting on the Philippine defense minister’s statement that the Philippine military will resolutely respond to China’s “aggressive” actions in the South China Sea and reports that the Philippines is strengthening defense cooperation with the United States, Australia, Japan and India.

    The official representative called such statements a complete distortion of the facts and an attempt to shift the blame.

    The territorial boundaries of the Philippines have long been defined by a number of international treaties, and the islands in the South China Sea are outside these boundaries, Zhang Xiaogang noted.

    He noted that the Philippine side, however, illegally occupies individual reefs and islands of the Nansha Archipelago, which belongs to China, often provokes and creates obstacles for China at sea, and even condones extra-regional forces in escalating tensions in the South China Sea.

    China remains steadfast in safeguarding its territorial sovereignty, maritime rights and interests, and will continue to resolutely oppose the Philippines’ encroachments and provocative actions in accordance with laws and regulations, Zhang Xiaogang concluded. –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 hopes relevant countries will not be manipulated by forces advocating for “Taiwan independence” – Chinese Foreign Ministry

    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 30 (Xinhua) — Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun on Wednesday expressed hope that countries that have established so-called “diplomatic ties” with Taiwan will not be repeatedly manipulated and used by forces advocating for “Taiwan independence.”

    “Instead, they should look into the situation, realize their mistakes, return to the right path and make the right decision as soon as possible that is in line with the historical trend and meets the long-term interests of their people,” the Chinese diplomat said at a regular departmental briefing.

    Guo Jiakun made the remarks while commenting on reports that Taiwanese leader Lai Qingde had postponed his visit to Latin American countries that have established so-called “diplomatic ties” with Taiwan because the United States did not allow him to make a transit stop in New York.

    The official representative recalled that the one-China principle is one of the basic norms of international relations and the general consensus of the international community. According to him, adhering to the one-China principle is great international justice, the cherished wish of the people, and the general trend of the times.

    The Lai Qingde administration’s separatist provocations will never succeed, they will not shake the firm international commitment to the one-China principle, and they will not be able to stop the historical trend toward China’s complete reunification, the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman concluded. -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: Russia has already acquired immunity to Western sanctions – Russian President’s press secretary

    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

    Moscow, July 30 (Xinhua) — Russia’s economy has already managed to develop immunity to Western sanctions, Russian presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, commenting on U.S. President Donald Trump’s threats to introduce new restrictive measures.

    “We have been living under a huge number of sanctions for quite a long time. Our economy operates under a huge number of restrictions. Therefore, of course, we have already developed a certain immunity in this regard,” he said, answering a question about preparations for the introduction of new restrictions.

    Earlier, D. Trump announced that he was reducing the 50-day deadline he had set for reaching a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine to 10 days. If the negotiations fail, he plans to introduce new import duties, sanctions or “something else.” –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: Foreign Ministers of Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan discussed a wide range of issues of bilateral cooperation

    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

    BISHKEK, July 30 (Xinhua) — Kyrgyz Foreign Minister Jeenbek Kulubayev on Wednesday met with his Uzbek counterpart Bakhtiyor Saidov, who arrived in Kyrgyzstan on an official visit, the press service of the Kyrgyz Foreign Ministry reported.

    As reported, the parties discussed a wide range of issues of Kyrgyz-Uzbek bilateral cooperation, exchanged views on current regional and international issues, and identified specific steps to implement the agreements reached at the level of heads of state and heads of government of the two countries.

    The ministers noted with satisfaction the high level of political dialogue and the dynamics of bilateral contacts at the highest and high levels. They reaffirmed their mutual commitment to further strengthening the comprehensive strategic partnership and expressed their readiness to continue joint efforts to bring Kyrgyz-Uzbek relations to a qualitatively new level.

    The parties also discussed cooperation in international and regional organizations, including the United Nations, the Commonwealth of Independent States and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. As noted, cooperation in these structures remains a key element of the partnership between the two countries.

    The heads of the foreign ministries of the two states confirmed their readiness to continue coordinating approaches to key regional and global issues, and also outlined specific joint measures to implement the Cooperation Program between the Foreign Ministries of Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan for 2025-2026.

    “During the meeting, promising areas for further cooperation were identified and a schedule of upcoming events at the highest level was agreed upon,” the press service said in a statement. –0–

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China deeply concerned about humanitarian catastrophe for Gaza population – Chinese Foreign Ministry

    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 30 (Xinhua) — China is deeply concerned about the humanitarian catastrophe facing the people of the Gaza Strip and calls on all parties involved, especially Israel, to immediately stop military operations in Gaza and prevent a humanitarian crisis of an even greater scale, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said on Wednesday.

    The humanitarian situation in the Palestinian enclave is reportedly a major concern for the international community. French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer have raised the possibility of recognizing a Palestinian state at the UN General Assembly. Meanwhile, Israel’s security cabinet is still considering the option of a full military occupation of the Gaza Strip and a blockade of cities where the Palestinian Hamas movement operates.

    Answering a question on the matter at a press briefing, Guo Jiakun said China is closely monitoring the current situation in the enclave and opposes Israel’s further escalation of military action in the region.

    “We are deeply concerned about the humanitarian catastrophe facing the people of the Gaza Strip. It has been 21 months since the new round of conflict began, and the humanitarian situation in Gaza has never been so dire,” the Chinese diplomat said.

    He cited a recent World Health Organization statement that of the 74 malnutrition deaths in Gaza since the start of the year, 63 occurred this month, including 25 children, in the latest evidence of a humanitarian catastrophe in the Palestinian enclave.

    “We call on the parties concerned, especially Israel, to immediately cease military action in Gaza, lift the blockade and siege of the enclave, fully restore humanitarian access there and prevent a wider humanitarian crisis,” the official representative stressed.

    Noting that the Palestinian issue remains a key issue in the Middle East, Guo Jiakun stated that a solution based on the principle of “two states for two peoples” is the only way out and China firmly supports the Palestinian people in establishing an independent State of Palestine.

    “China is willing to continue to cooperate with the international community to end the fighting in Gaza as soon as possible, ease the humanitarian crisis, realize the two-state solution, and achieve a comprehensive, fair and lasting settlement of the Palestinian issue,” the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman concluded. –0–

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: 8 dead, 18 missing after heavy rains hit northern China county /more details/

    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

    SHIJIAZHUANG, July 30 (Xinhua) — Eight people have been killed and 18 others are missing following recent heavy rains in Xinglong County, north China’s Hebei Province, local authorities said Wednesday.

    The heavy rains caused serious damage to some villages in Liudaohe Township, the emergency rescue headquarters said, adding that the search and rescue operation was ongoing. –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: China’s Defense Ministry urges relevant countries to approach Taiwan-related issues with caution

    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 30 (Xinhua) — Chinese Defense Ministry spokesperson Zhang Xiaogang on Wednesday called on relevant countries to exercise utmost caution when handling Taiwan-related issues.

    Zhang Xiaogang made the statement in response to recent reports that the United States did not allow Taiwanese leader Lai Qingde to make a planned “transit stop” in New York during his trip to Latin America.

    Zhang Xiaogang stressed that China firmly opposes any form of official interaction between any country and the Chinese region of Taiwan.

    “We urge the United States to strictly abide by the one-China principle and the three China-US joint communiques, handle Taiwan-related issues with the utmost caution, and make joint efforts to promote the stable, healthy and sustainable development of China-US relations,” the spokesman said.

    Commenting on reports that the US sent several active and retired military personnel as observers to the so-called Hanguang 41 exercises in Taiwan, Zhang Xiaogang stressed that the Taiwan issue is an exclusively internal affair of China that does not allow any external interference.

    He noted that China is firmly opposed to any form of collusion between the United States and Taiwan in the military sphere.

    The spokesman also warned Taiwan’s Democratic Progressive Party administration that any attempt to secure American support for its push for “Taiwan independence” and resist Chinese reunification by force was doomed to failure. -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: Russia’s Aeroflot Stabilizes Flight Schedule After IT Systems Failure

    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

    Moscow, July 30 /Xinhua/ — Russian airline Aeroflot has fully stabilized its flight schedule after a major failure in its information systems, the company’s press service reported on Wednesday.

    On Tuesday, Aeroflot operated all 216 scheduled paired flights departing from Moscow and all 73 flights of the regional program. The airline’s official website and booking system are working correctly.

    On July 28, Aeroflot reported that there had been a failure in the company’s IT infrastructure, and dozens of flights had been cancelled. According to the Russian Prosecutor General’s Office, the failure was caused by a hacker attack, and a criminal case has been opened for unauthorized access to computer information. –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 –