Category: AM-NC

MIL-OSI Russia: China is a reliable partner for ASEAN in addressing complex challenges: Wang Yi

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

KUALA LUMPUR, July 10 (Xinhua) — China has always been the most reliable stabilizing force in a turbulent world and the most reliable partner for members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in tackling difficult challenges, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, a member of the Politburo of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, said at a China-ASEAN foreign ministers’ meeting here on Thursday.

Noting that China and ASEAN have similar development concepts, common requirements and integrated interests, he added that Beijing regards ASEAN as a priority area for diplomatic relations with its neighbors and a pioneering platform for promoting the building of a community with a shared future for mankind.

“We should support each other and achieve success for each other in advancing the modernization process of Asia,” Wang said.

The minister spoke about the achievements of China-ASEAN cooperation and put forward four proposals.

First, it must become a benchmark for upholding international justice. Wang said China and ASEAN must resolutely uphold the global system with the UN at its core and the international order based on international law.

China supports ASEAN’s central position in the regional architecture and its greater role in regional and international affairs. China is willing to work with ASEAN to practice open regionalism and genuine multilateralism and make greater contributions to regional and global governance.

Secondly, it should be a model for maintaining peace and stability in the region. Peace and stability in the region are extremely valuable and must be reliably protected, and geopolitical conflicts or bloc confrontations should not spread to Asia, Wang Yi said. China is ready to take a leading role in signing the Protocol to the Treaty on a Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone in Southeast Asia, he added.

The South China Sea is a common home for regional countries, not a “gladiator arena” for major powers, and China is willing to expand cooperation with ASEAN countries in areas such as marine environmental protection, shipping safety, maritime law enforcement and key maritime infrastructure, fully implement the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, facilitate consultations on the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea and always hold the initiative in the South China Sea issue, the Foreign Minister stressed.

Third, it is necessary to set an example of mutually beneficial cooperation. According to Wang Yi, Beijing is ready to cooperate with ASEAN in building the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area 3.0, effectively implement the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), and build a high-level free trade network.

China is willing to continue to use high-quality cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative as a core platform, strengthen communication and cooperation with ASEAN in industrial and supply chains, and advance cooperation in areas such as artificial intelligence, digital transformation and clean energy, the minister said.

China highly appreciates ASEAN’s firm commitment to free trade and the multilateral trading system, and holds that economic and trade differences should be resolved through equal dialogue and mutual benefit, while upholding its own dignity and fundamental principles and not encroaching on the interests of third parties, Wang said.

Fourth, we should set an example in promoting inclusiveness and mutual learning. China is willing to continue to advocate dialogue, exchanges and mutual learning among different civilizations with ASEAN countries, the foreign minister said. The two sides should jointly hold a successful Year of People-to-People Exchanges, intensify exchanges in the fields of education, youth, think tanks, media and other areas, take concrete measures to implement the Global Civilization Initiative and promote mutual understanding, friendship and integration among peoples.

The participating countries noted that China-ASEAN cooperation is the most dynamic and fruitful. China has always been one of ASEAN’s most important dialogue partners, they said, expressing gratitude to China for supporting the association’s central position. –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 –

July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Xizang’s first scheduled cargo flight opens

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

LHASA, July 10 (Xinhua) — China’s SF Airlines on Thursday launched a cargo flight linking Lhasa in China’s Xizang Autonomous Region and Ezhou in Hubei Province.

The Boeing 757-200 of the company left Lhasa Konggar International Airport at 12:10 p.m., carrying agricultural products including tomatoes, chicken eggs, rapeseed oil and barley to Ezhou, becoming the first scheduled flight in Xijiang dedicated exclusively to cargo.

According to the plan, round trip flights on this air route will be carried out once a week. The aircraft is capable of delivering more than 30 tons of cargo on the Lhasa-Ezhou route.

The opening of the flight on the new route will make it more convenient to deliver products from Xizang not only to other regions of the country, but also beyond its borders, said Liu Shuxin, an employee of the Xizang branch of SF Airlines.

Given Xijiang’s strategic location as the “gateway to South Asia,” the launch of the Lhasa-Ezhou route will help other regions in the country expand their supply of products to the South Asian market, he added.

According to official data, airports in the Xizang Autonomous Region served 3.7 million passengers in the first half of this year. At the same time, the cargo turnover and the volume of parcels through them amounted to 26 thousand tons. These figures increased by 3.0 percent and 7.9 percent, respectively, year-on-year. -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 –

July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: Libya: UN urges restraint as military buildup threatens renewed violence in Tripoli

Source: United Nations 2

In a statement late on Wednesday (local time), the UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) expressed deep concern over continued reports of armed group mobilisation in densely populated areas, urging all parties to refrain from the use of force and inflammatory rhetoric.

“The Mission strongly urges all parties to avoid any actions or political rhetoric that could trigger escalation or lead to renewed clashes,” it said.

UNSMIL stressed that protection of civilian lives and property under international law remains a binding obligation for all political and security actors.

“Those responsible for attacks against civilians will be held accountable,” the Mission said.

Pursue dialogue, not violence

The Mission reiterated its support for the implementation of security arrangements developed by the Truce and Security and Military Arrangements Committees, emphasising that “forces recently deployed in Tripoli must withdraw without delay.”

It also underscored that dialogue – not violence – remains the only viable path to achieving sustainable peace and stability in Tripoli and across Libya.

The appeal comes amid reports of military movements in the capital and renewed clashes between armed groups, reflecting the persistent volatility that has plagued Libya since the fall of former leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011.

Political stalemate

The country remains divided between rival administrations in the east and west, with unity efforts repeatedly stalled.

A UN-brokered ceasefire signed in 2020 raised hopes for national elections, but progress has been hampered by political deadlock and sporadic outbreaks of violence – particularly in Tripoli.

In May, clashes erupted in several districts of the capital, reportedly triggered by the killing of a prominent militia leader. The fighting, which involved heavy weaponry in densely populated areas, forced hundreds of families to flee and further strained the city’s already fragile infrastructure.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: An Interview with Foreign Law Intern at the Law Library of Congress, Raksmei Dara

Source: US Global Legal Monitor

Today’s blog post is an interview with a foreign law intern at the Law Library of Congress, Raksmei Dara. She works with Foreign Law Specialist Sayuri Umeda in the Global Legal Research Directorate.

Describe your background.

My name is Raksmei Dara, but people call me Mei. I was born in the heart of Phnom Penh city, Cambodia. I have an older brother, and I am the youngest one in my family.

What is your academic/ professional history?

I have a bachelor’s degree in law from the American University of Phnom Penh and a Bachelor of Arts in law from the University of Arizona. I interned at the Fraud Prevention Unit in the U.S. Consular Affairs Office at the United States Embassy in Cambodia during my undergraduate program. Shortly after, I was offered a scholarship from Pennsylvania State University for an LL.M. program, where I earned my concentration in international, foreign, and comparative law. While at Penn State, I was chosen and coached as a competitor for Penn State Law in the Willem C. Vis International Commercial Moot Court Competition 2025. That is when my passion for international law grew.

How do you describe your job to other people?

I am a foreign law intern in the Global Legal Research Directorate of the Law Library of Congress. I research and analyze Cambodian legal frameworks, draft articles on new laws and other regulations, and compile those findings into clear, up-to-date reports and articles for our global audience.

Why did you want to work at the Law Library of Congress?

The Law Library of Congress is an open door for me to deepen my legal skills, gain new research knowledge, and collaborate with incredible scholars from around the world. Most importantly, the Library of Congress is a place of rich history and unparalleled resources, making it the perfect stepping stone for my legal career. I am grateful to have such an honorable institution like the Law Library of Congress as part of my legal professional journey.

What is the most interesting fact you have learned about the Law Library of Congress?

I am blown away by how professional and talented everyone is in the workplace. The Library of Congress feels like a jungle of unmatched resources and archival treasures you simply cannot find anywhere else in the world. Its global network of scholars and the depth of its collections make it a truly one-of-a-kind institution that words cannot do justice.

What’s something most of your co-workers do not know about you?

I always find myself interested in the psychology behind laws and how law shapes both legislation and enforcement.

Subscribe to In Custodia Legis – it’s free! – to receive interesting posts drawn from the Law Library of Congress’s vast collections and our staff’s expertise in U.S., foreign, and international law.

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July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: OCEANIA/PAPAU NEW GUINEA – Blessed To Rot: An example of faith for catechists and laity

Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

Thursday, 10 July 2025

Port Moresby (Agenzia Fides) – “We celebrated Blessed Peter To Rot on his feast day on July 7 in Port Moresby, with a Mass that brought before the faithful the figure of our first saint, who will be canonized next October 19. And we will continue the celebrations in the various dioceses throughout July. To Rot is for us an example of a catechist and husband: a Christian who was convinced that the personal journey of holiness is a response to the call of every baptized person. Each of us, we recall, receives this call,” Paul Sundu, Bishop of Kundiawa, who participated in the celebration in Port Moresby, which was also attended by the Apostolic Nuncio to Papua New Guinea, Msgr. Maurizio Bravi, told Fides.Bishop Sundu said that the Blessed “is an example of the faith in our country today: There are many catechists like him who continue the work of witnessing and transmitting the faith in remote places, without whom the Church’s mission would not continue.” To Rot, the bishop stated, “in a way anticipated the Second Vatican Council by living the mission of evangelization as a lay person. He became a catechist because, given the shortage of missionaries, he recognized that ‘the harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few.’ Today, he is an example of the laity’s participation in the Church.” Regarding the situation of the Catholic community in Papua New Guinea, the bishop said: “We are 16 million Catholics, divided into four macro-regions, in a nation that can still be called ‘Christian’: Faith is of great importance to the people.” Papua New Guinea is largely covered by tropical jungle and is inhabited by very diverse indigenous peoples. Over the past two centuries, the country has been the subject of colonial conflicts between the British, Dutch, and Germans. Foreign powers welcomed Christian missionaries, both Protestant and Catholic, who proclaimed the Gospel to the native population.”Our country is home to very diverse societies and cultures, with hundreds of ethnic groups, traditions, and religions.The challenge for the Church lies in its relationship with the many local cultures whose heritage includes practices that are contrary to Christian values, such as divorce, shamanism, and ancestor worship,” Bishop Sundu continued. “The Church’s witness and mission, on the one hand, thrive on its relationship with traditional and ancestral religions; on the other, it is confronted with secularization and modernization, which are making themselves felt in the general mentality and are particularly noticeable in the cities and among young people.” The Catholic Church in Papua New Guinea, he adds, “remains a credible and valued institution today, supporting the population in its development and sometimes doing more than the government, especially in areas such as education and health, thus continuing to make a significant and valuable contribution to the country’s public life.” Referring specifically to the situation in his diocese of Kundiawa, a mountain town in the heart of Simbu Province in the Central Highlands, the bishop reports how “the communities of believers are experiencing the Holy Year: especially the young people in various communities and parishes have organized the pilgrimage of the World Youth Day Cross, bringing a message of hope: the hope of living according to God’s heart, living the Gospel each in their own context and territory, in their own life situation, in their own community.” (PA) (Agenzia Fides, 10/7/2025)
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July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: AFRICA – “Neocolonialism in fishing”: The fishing industry in West African countries is in crisis

Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

photo nigrizia.it

by Cosimo GrazianiBanjul (Agenzia Fides) – In West African countries, the local fishing industry is in crisis. European countries are also to blame for this. Gambian activist Mustapha Manneh also spoke out at the United Nations World Oceans Conference, which took place this year in Nice from June 9 to 13.The core of the problem is the fishing of local species to produce fish feed for aquaculture farms in Greece and Turkey. The phenomenon affects the entire region and has the same characteristics: local species such as sardines and bonga are caught in large quantities and processed locally into fish feed for aquaculture; the produced material is shipped to Turkey, Greece, and China (these are the currently known destinations), where it is used in fish farms. The fish produced, in the case of Turkish farms, are mainly sea bream and bass. These farmed fish reach the stores of the destination countries and the tables of consumers, unaware that the consumed fillets are causing social and economic problems for entire populations on the African continent, where in the meantime, hundreds of families have lost their only source of income. As Manneh points out, the fishermen can no longer bring home enough fish to feed their families and face ever-increasing fuel costs: Whereas they used to be able to catch large quantities of fish in a shorter time, using only 20 liters of diesel, they now have to stay away longer to ensure a sufficient catch, and the amount of fuel required has at least tripled.The fishermen are not the only ones hit hard: an entire social fabric has been affected by this problem. In Senegal and Gambia, the fish was caught by men and sold by women, a system that, in its own way, also ensured relative social and economic equality. Now that catches are scarce, markets have disappeared in many cases, along with the stalls run by women, who must now find other sources of income. Another problem that fishermen in West Africa have faced in recent years is the presence of fishing boats from other countries—for example, from China—which significantly reduces the availability of fish to catch. In Guinea-Bissau, fishing boats from other countries often use trawling, which is prohibited due to the damage it can cause to ecosystems. The presence of foreign fishing boats in African waters is often regulated by agreements such as those concluded by the European Union with these countries. According to Manneh, their presence in Gambia is viewed with growing hostility by the local population, especially young people. The EU signed the last of a long line of fishing protocols with Gambia in 2019, which expire on July 30. This protocol stipulated that vessels from Spain, Greece, and France could fish in Gambian territorial waters for an annual fee of €550,000, a fee that was intended, among other things, to finance measures to protect the marine ecosystem. Similar agreements have been concluded with other countries in the region: In the case of Guinea-Bissau, the agreement was approved by the European Parliament last April and provides for compensation of up to €100 million per year. Alongside this agreement, the Parliament adopted a recommendation calling on the European Commission and Guinea-Bissau to improve fishing controls in the African country’s territorial waters. The fishing crisis in West African countries is also fueling illegal emigration to Europe. From the coasts of Senegal, it is possible to reach the Canary Islands, which belong to Spain. While reaching the Canary Islands represents an alternative to poverty for many, others become smugglers for the same reason, earning a living by transporting migrants. In Gambia, earnings for a single trip on a boat full of migrants can reach up to €200,000, an unimaginable sum for a Gambian fisherman. (Agenzia Fides, 10/7/2025)
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July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/INDONESIA – Camillian Mission on the Island of Flores celebrates the feast of the Order’s founder

Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

Thursday, 10 July 2025

LG

Maumere (Agenzia Fides) – The Camillian mission in Indonesia experiences the feast of Saint Camillus of Lellis, patron saint of the sick and healthcare workers and founder of the Order of the Sick, with great joy and gratitude.”July 14, 2025, is a historic day for the Camillian delegation in Indonesia: four new deacons will be ordained, ten religious will take temporary vows, twenty-two confreres will renew their vows, and eleven young men will be received into the novitiate,” Father Luigi Galvani (MI), Camillian missionary on the island of Flores, told Fides.The Eucharistic celebration will take place at the Camillian Philosophical and Theological Seminary in Maumere, on the island of Flores, the beating heart of the Indonesian mission. The solemn liturgy will be presided over by the Bishop of the diocese, Edwaldus Martinus Sedu, while the Provincial Superior of the Camillians, Father Evan Villanueva, and the religious from the various Camillian communities in the country will concelebrate.”These significant events,” the missionary continued, “are not mere dates, but a living testimony to the fruitfulness of the Camillian charism, present in Indonesia since 2009. In just over fifteen years, the mission has taken deep root thanks to the constant work of vocational promotion and formation, service to the sick, especially the poorest and most marginalized, and various important social projects. These include the feeding program and the new shelters for the mentally ill, who were previously chained and lived in atrocious conditions” (see Fides, 24/1/2024).”All of this stimulates us and keeps us young, so to speak,” jokes the missionary, who is over eighty years old. “We pray to Saint Camillus to continue to inspire us with renewed enthusiasm and missionary zeal.””The charism of Saint Camillus, at the center of which is merciful love for the sick, ‘like a mother towards her only sick child,’ continues to attract young people willing to give their lives in generous and radical service,” concludes Father Luigi. “On this feast day, the young Camillian mission in Indonesia thanks the Lord for the gifts received and renews its commitment to live and ever more widely spread the Gospel of charity, following the example of Saint Camillus, in a world in need of peace, solidarity, and hope.” (LG/AP) (Agenzia Fides, 10/7/2025)

LG

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July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: AFRICA/DR CONGO – Goma: Relics of Blessed Floribert transferred to the Shrine of the Blessed Sacrament

Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

Thursday, 10 July 2025

Goma (Agenzia Fides) – Less than a month after the beatification ceremony at the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls in Rome, the mortal remains of Floribert Bwana Chui Bin Kositi were transferred from the city cemetery to a chapel dedicated to him within the Shrine of the Blessed Sacrament in Goma.It was an intense moment of faith for the local Catholic community: more than 6,000 people attended a Mass in the square in front of the shrine, presided over by Archbishop Fulgence Muteba Mugalu of Lubumbashi, President of the Episcopal Conference of the Democratic Republic of Congo (CENCO). Eleven bishops and about 200 priests concelebrated with him.Pope Francis recognized the martyrdom of Floribert Bwana Chui Bin Kositi on November 28, 2024. And in Goma, a war-torn city where years of conflict have exacerbated social hardship, the news of the beatification and the ceremony of transferring the remains to the Shrine acted like a healing balm.Some worshipers wore colorful traditional shirts and dresses bearing the blessed’s portrait. In his homily, Archbishop Fulgence Muteba Mugalu described the recognition of the martyrdom and the beatification ceremony as a “powerful wake-up call” for the entire Congolese society, which “must commit itself to the fight against corruption.”Floribert was employed in the Goma office of the Congolese Control Office (OCC) in Goma, the public body responsible for controlling the quality, quantity and conformity of goods. Quality control consisted of verifying the conformity of products with national and international regulations, through physicochemical and microbiological analysis of the samples taken.In the course of his duties, he opposed the passage of a shipment of spoiled rice from Rwanda, destined for the Congolese market, with serious consequences for the health of consumers. Despite offers of bribes from crooked traders, Floribert stubbornly refused to let the cargo pass. The offers of money then turned into threats, but the young civil servant did not give in.On July 7, 2007, unknown assailants forced him into a car. On July 9, his lifeless body was found in a vacant lot not far from the scene of the kidnapping. It was established that Floribert was tortured and beaten before being killed. Known for his devotion to God and the Catholic Church, Floribert Bwana Chui was linked to the Community of Sant’Egidio. He distinguished himself by his religious fervor and his desire to live daily according to the teachings of the Gospel. His sacrifice is compared to that of Blessed Isidore Bakanja, another Congolese martyr beatified in 1994 by Pope John Paul II.For Congolese society, the Archbishop said, Floribert’s story is “also a message of hope.” He therefore appealed to the commitment of all believers to peace: “No matter how great the challenges we face today, we must build peace, and we must build it together.”Aline Minani, a friend of the Blessed, was also present at the ceremony. Speaking to the local press on the sidelines of the celebrations, she said: “All of this has profound meaning for the local community. What we are celebrating here can be a glimmer of hope for our region and our country.”The east of the Democratic Republic of Congo is the scene of a war in which more than 100 armed groups are now involved. Clashes escalated at the beginning of this year, when the M23 movement captured the cities of Goma (see Fides, 27/1/2025) and Bukavu (see Fides, 17/2/2025). (F.B.) (Agenzia Fides, 10/7/2025)
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July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: AFRICA/KENYA – Erection of the diocese of Kapsabet, Kenya and appointment of the first bishop

Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

Thursday, 10 July 2025

Nairobi (Agenzia Fides) – The Holy Father has created the new diocese of Kapsabet, Kenya, with territory taken from the diocese of Eldoret, making it a suffragan of the metropolitan archdiocese of Kisumu, Kenya.The Holy Father has appointed Bishop John Kiplimo Lelei, until now auxiliary bishop of Eldoret, as first bishop of the diocese of Kapsabet, Kenya, at the same time liberating him from the titular see of Mons in Numidia.Bishop John Kiplimo Lelei was born on 15 August 1958 in Soy, in the diocese of Eldoret. He studied philosophy at Saint Augustine’s Senior Seminary in Mabanga, and theology at Saint Thomas Aquinas Major Seminary in Nairobi.He was ordained a priest on 26 October 1985 for the diocese of Eldoret.He was awarded a doctorate in theology, specializing in liturgy, from the Universität Wien.He has held the following offices: parish vicar in Suwerwa and Chepterit (1985-1987), parish priest in Yamumbi, Suwerwa, Chepterit and Tachasis, and vicar forane of the deaneries of Kitale and Nandi (1987-1996), parish collaborator at St. Brigitta and Zum Gottlichen Erloser, in the archdiocese of Vienna (1996-2002), parish priest of St. Patrick in Kapcherop (2002-2003) and St. Boniface in Tindinyo (2003-2007), lecturer in the following institutes: AMECEA Pastoral Institute in Gaba (2003-2004); Institute of Development Studies in Kobujoi (2004-2009) and at the St. Matthias Mulumba Senior Seminary-Tindinyo (2003-2008), parish priest of St. Peter’s in Kapsabet (2007-2008), lecturer and formator of St. Matthias Mulumba Senior Seminary in Tindinyo (2008-2017), rector of St. Thomas Aquinas Major Seminary in Nairobi (2017-2023) and vicar general of Eldoret.On 27 March 2024 he was appointed auxiliary bishop of Eldoret, receiving the titular see of Mons in Numidia; he was ordained a bishop the following 25 May. (EG) (Agenzia Fides, 10/7/2025)

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July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: AFRICA/KENYA – Erection of the diocese of Kapsabet, Kenya and appointment of the first bishop

Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

Thursday, 10 July 2025

Nairobi (Agenzia Fides) – The Holy Father has created the new diocese of Kapsabet, Kenya, with territory taken from the diocese of Eldoret, making it a suffragan of the metropolitan archdiocese of Kisumu, Kenya.The Holy Father has appointed Bishop John Kiplimo Lelei, until now auxiliary bishop of Eldoret, as first bishop of the diocese of Kapsabet, Kenya, at the same time liberating him from the titular see of Mons in Numidia.Bishop John Kiplimo Lelei was born on 15 August 1958 in Soy, in the diocese of Eldoret. He studied philosophy at Saint Augustine’s Senior Seminary in Mabanga, and theology at Saint Thomas Aquinas Major Seminary in Nairobi.He was ordained a priest on 26 October 1985 for the diocese of Eldoret.He was awarded a doctorate in theology, specializing in liturgy, from the Universität Wien.He has held the following offices: parish vicar in Suwerwa and Chepterit (1985-1987), parish priest in Yamumbi, Suwerwa, Chepterit and Tachasis, and vicar forane of the deaneries of Kitale and Nandi (1987-1996), parish collaborator at St. Brigitta and Zum Gottlichen Erloser, in the archdiocese of Vienna (1996-2002), parish priest of St. Patrick in Kapcherop (2002-2003) and St. Boniface in Tindinyo (2003-2007), lecturer in the following institutes: AMECEA Pastoral Institute in Gaba (2003-2004); Institute of Development Studies in Kobujoi (2004-2009) and at the St. Matthias Mulumba Senior Seminary-Tindinyo (2003-2008), parish priest of St. Peter’s in Kapsabet (2007-2008), lecturer and formator of St. Matthias Mulumba Senior Seminary in Tindinyo (2008-2017), rector of St. Thomas Aquinas Major Seminary in Nairobi (2017-2023) and vicar general of Eldoret.On 27 March 2024 he was appointed auxiliary bishop of Eldoret, receiving the titular see of Mons in Numidia; he was ordained a bishop the following 25 May. (EG) (Agenzia Fides, 10/7/2025)

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July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Readout of the Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Adm. Christopher Grady’s Meeting with Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape

Source: US Defense Joint Chiefs of Staff

Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Adm. Christopher Grady welcomed Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape to Washington, D.C., on Tuesday, July 9, 2025, as part of the United States’ continued focus on strengthening defense relationships across the Pacific Islands region.

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July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Readout of the Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Adm. Christopher Grady’s Meeting with Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape

Source: US Defense Joint Chiefs of Staff

Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Adm. Christopher Grady welcomed Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape to Washington, D.C., on Tuesday, July 9, 2025, as part of the United States’ continued focus on strengthening defense relationships across the Pacific Islands region.

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July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Conviction of examiner, driving school instructor welcomed

Source: Government of South Africa

Thursday, July 10, 2025

The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has welcomed the conviction of a KwaZulu-Natal examiner and a driving school instructor in a case that exposed serious breaches of integrity within the driving licence issuing sector.

Sandile Ndlovu, a Mooi River-based examiner, was found guilty of fraud and conspiracy to commit corruption on 8 July 2025 in the Durban Specialised Crime Court after it was discovered that he had fraudulently issued a learner licence to someone who had not written the required examination.

Ndlovu was arrested in 2016 following complaints received by the National Traffic Anti-Corruption Unit (NTACU), a division of the RTMC.

The unit worked with the KwaZulu-Natal South African Police Crime Intelligence Unit and the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) anti-corruption unit to investigate the complaints.

“It was found that Mr Ndlovu conspired with Ms Zandile Dlamini, a driving school instructor, to have a learner licence issued on the payment of R 3000 inducement. Dlamini was also convicted for her role in facilitating the misconduct by accepting an unlawful benefit for the crime,” said the RTMC in a statement.

The corporation said these actions not only violated the trust placed in public servants but also compromised the integrity of a system meant to ensure competence and accountability within road traffic law enforcement.

The matter has been postponed to 29 August 2025 to allow for the preparation of pre-sentence reports.

During the sentencing phase, the State is expected to call additional witnesses to highlight the impact of these actions on road safety and the broader public service.

“The RTMC considers this case a significant milestone in the ongoing effort to clean up traffic enforcement services and promote a culture of ethical conduct.

“We fully support the work of the courts and prosecuting authorities in holding those who abuse public systems accountable. The fight against fraud and corruption remains one of our top priorities, and we will continue working closely with all stakeholders to protect the integrity of road traffic management in South Africa,” said the RTMC.

Members of the public can report suspected acts of fraud, corruption, and malfeasance to ntacu@rtmc.co.za or by WhatsApp to 083 293 7989. – SAnews.gov.za

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July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Operation Vulindlela: Sustained progress in the economic reform agenda

Source: Government of South Africa

The Presidency and National Treasury have released a quarterly progress report for Q1 2025/26 on the implementation of economic reform through Operation Vulindlela.

This report is the first to be released since the launch of Phase II of Operation Vulindlela this year.

Operation Vulindlela is a joint initiative of the Presidency and National Treasury which aims to achieve more rapid and inclusive economic growth through a programme of far-reaching economic reform.

Phase I of Operation Vulindlela focused on unlocking progress in five priority areas: electricity, freight logistics, water, telecommunications, and the visa system. These reforms were selected for their high potential to catalyse investment, enhance economic competitiveness, and create jobs.

Phase II represents a second wave of structural reform aimed at unlocking more rapid, inclusive, and sustained economic growth.

While continuing to drive implementation of reforms initiated during Phase I, the second phase introduces new focus areas that respond to evolving challenges in the economy.

“The report released today demonstrates sustained progress in the economic reform agenda, which serves as a counter to strong economic headwinds.

“Key milestones during the past quarter include the publication of a Ministerial Determination and associated regulations to enable the first round of Independent Transmission Projects, as well as a Request for Information for major private sector participation (PSP) projects in the freight logistics sector.

“Progress has also been made in the new areas of reform included in Phase II, with a comprehensive review of the White Paper on Local Government to reform the local government system and the introduction of a performance-based financing mechanism to support the reform of municipal water and electricity services.

“The Digital Transformation Roadmap has been approved by Cabinet and is in implementation, with the development of a digital identity system and other core elements of the roadmap already advanced,” said a statement.

Further details on progress in each of the reform areas is available in the full report, at Operation Vulindlela Progress Report Q1 2025-26.pdf. – SAnews.gov.za

MIL OSI Africa –

July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Celebrating 75 years of Portsmouth’s friendship with Duisburg

Source: City of Portsmouth

Portsmouth is celebrating 75 years of twinning and friendship with Duisburg and the many connections forged between the two cities over the years.

Portsmouth schoolchildren have been busy designing Duisburg 75 logos to mark the major anniversary. And the winners – Amelie Allen and Roxanne Richardson from Springfield School – had their design engraved on a silver salver that’s ben gifted to the German city. Fellow Springfield pupils Ashmika Sujith and Emma Butcher won best concept for their design.

The salver was presented to the Lord Mayor of Duisburg, Sören Link, as part of his recent visit to Portsmouth with a group of delegates.

As part of the anniversary trip, Portsmouth Lord Mayor Cllr Gerald Vernon-Jackson joined to unveil a selection of new German books, available to borrow in Central Library, which have been funded by Snows BMW and MINI Portsmouth. Books have also gone to Portsmouth schools where German is taught, continuing a tradition of exchanging books since the cities were twinned in 1950.

A display showing the rich history between Portsmouth and Duisburg is also available to visit in Portsmouth History Centre – located on floor 2 of Central Library, Guildhall Square.

As part of the visit, Duisburg guests visited Southsea Food Festival, toured the new sea defences and took in other Portsmouth landmarks.

Over 75,000 people from the two cities are estimated to have taken part in exchanges since they were officially twinned in 1950, and over 75 years, many friendships, and even families, have been created.

Doreen from Portsmouth and Heinz from Duisburg were the first couple to marry after their cities were twinned, having met in Duisburg in 1948. Heinz died last year aged 102 and Doreen died several years before, and their niece, Rosy Danbar, who had been researching her family history, joined the latest visit to share her family stories.

Cllr Chris Attwell, Portsmouth City Council Cabinet Member for Communities and Central Services and chair of the twinning advisory group said:

“Portsmouth and Duisburg were one of the very first Anglo-German twinning links following the Second World War, which left both cities crippled by bombing.

“Once enemies, a great friendship was forged out of understanding and hope in 1950, and over 75 years that bond has grown ever stronger. Residents of both cities have made life-long friends by taking part in visits, and we look forward to many more decades of friendship together.”

To further mark the occasion a 75th anniversary flower display has been created outside The D-Day Story museum in Southsea.

And earlier in the summer, a group of Portsmouth City Council staff travelled to Germany to take part in the Duisburg Fun Dragonboat Regatta, the biggest in the world.

Anyone interested in the link between the cities can join The Duisburg Portsmouth Twinning Association

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: TAK£500+ Community campaign – the public has spoken!

Source: Northern Ireland City of Armagh

Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Alderman Stephen Moutray with participants from Bleary Primary School presenting their outdoor learning project at the recent Tak£500+ event held at South Lake Leisure Centre.

For the last few months, communities from right across every corner of the borough have been putting forward ideas that they think will have a positive impact on their area – with over 150 applications in total coming through!

Three incredible events were then held at different venues across the borough where these groups came along to showcase their fantastic ideas, in the hope that members of the public would vote for them to receive funding to bring their ideas to life!

Overall, 3,423 votes were cast by you – residents of this borough – for your favourite projects. And an amazing 116 projects have received funding to the tune of over £114,000 to carry out their projects for the benefit of their communities!

This was all made possible through the ‘TAK£500+ Participatory Budget Fund’ – a project that has enabled local people to decide how public funds are used to address needs in their area. Communities were able to apply for up to £1,000, with local residents deciding which projects should go ahead!

The variety of successful projects is quite simply amazing and includes sporting activities for all ages, community gardens, intergenerational initiatives, projects to protect our industrial heritage and so much more!

“This the fourth year of the Tak£500+ Project and the response this time was even bigger and better,” commented the Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Alderman Stephen Moutray.

“We were delighted to see so many residents getting involved – both with ideas for projects as well has coming out to cast their votes. The variety of ideas that were put forward and the reasons why were truly inspirational in how they will benefit communities. I can’t wait to see these projects coming to life over the next few months and seeing the impact they will have across the borough!”

All ideas were based around the ‘Take 5 Ways of Wellbeing’ – five simple steps to help maintain and improve your wellbeing on a daily basis.

View the list of successful projects here.

Find out more about Tak£500+ here.

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Get up and go with free family activities

Source: City of Leicester

FREE family activities will be on offer in neighbourhoods across Leicester throughout the summer holidays.

From Monday 14th July until Friday 22nd August, the city council’s Get Up & Go programme will offer a range of activities at children, young people and family centres across the city.

Aimed at children aged 0-11 years, the programme will include lots of outdoor fun, arts and crafts, story time and sensory play.

There will also be plenty of indoor creative play and lots of opportunities to join in with Story Garden, this year’s nature-themed summer reading challenge.

On Mondays, there will be Get Up & Go activities on offer at St Matthews, Saffron, Thurnby Lodge and Woodbridge; on Tuesdays at Bewcastle and on Wednesdays at Beaumont Leys. On Thursdays, families can get up and go at centres in Netherhall, New Parks, Belgrave and Highfields, as well as again at Beaumont Leys. On Fridays, there’s a chance to get up and go in Eyres Monsell or at The Grove in Braunstone.

Times vary at each venue, so check the timetable or call your local children’s centre for details.

A whole week of special activities will also mark National Playday this summer. Playday activities will take place across all children’s centres on the week beginning Monday 4 August, and will include outdoor games, songs and a baby area.

The city council’s Get Up & Go programme aims to encourage families to get out and about and enjoy the outdoor spaces around them.

Assistant city mayor for children and young people, Cllr Elaine Pantling, said: “We know it can be tricky to keep children entertained during the long summer holidays, and that it can be a drain on family finances. Our Get up and go sessions are aimed at a wide age range, they’re free and they take place in neighbourhoods across the city to make them easily accessible for as many families as possible.

“I hope these events will also give families lots of ideas and inspiration for their own low-cost play activities to try at home, as well as encouraging them to get out and about to enjoy the summer.”

More information is available at https://families.leicester.gov.uk/get-up-and-go/ and on Facebook at facebook.com/leicesterchildrenscentres

Details of all the free and low-cost activities taking place at city council venues and other city centre locations are available at https://families.leicester.gov.uk/summer-fun

Listings are provided for each week of the school holidays, making it easy for families to find a free or low-cost activity in Leicester this summer.

ENDS

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: Basel Committee shares report on interconnections between banks and non-bank financial intermediaries
Source: Bank for International Settlements
- The report reflects the findings of an analysis conducted as part of the Committee’s forward-looking work to identify and analyse risks and vulnerabilities to the banking system.
- The report identifies the services banks and non-bank financial intermediaries (NBFIs) provide to each other and the trends shaping the relationship between them.
- The Committee will continue to monitor and investigate the interconnections between banks and NBFIs with a particular focus on synthetic risk transfers.
The Basel Committee on Banking Supervision has today published a horizon-scanning report on the interconnections between banks and non-bank financial intermediaries (NBFIs). The NBFI sector has grown rapidly in recent years and includes a broad range of entities including investment funds, insurance companies, pension funds and other types of financial intermediaries.

Banks and NBFIs are linked by a wide range of activities and services and the sectors are mutually dependent. Banks provide leverage, clearing, market-making and underwriting services to NBFIs, trade derivatives with NBFIs and, in some cases, own NBFIs. These activities expose banks to a wide variety of risks. NBFIs are also exposed to banks through short-term cash placements, investment in securities issued by banks and trading activities. The nature of their linkages is shaped by market conditions and by regulatory reforms over the last several years.

To explore the risks associated with banks’ interconnections with NBFIs, the report builds on several case studies to discuss stylised scenarios that illustrate possible impacts of NBFI failure on banks and financial stability. The report also discusses the importance of granular, timely and high-frequency data in understanding and monitoring linkages between banks and NBFIs.

The Committee will continue to monitor and investigate the interconnections between banks and NBFIs with a particular focus on synthetic risk transfers (SRTs). The investigation will seek to better assess the benefits and risks posed by SRTs.
MIL OSI Economics –
July 11, 2025

MIL-OSI Economics: RBI imposes monetary penalty on Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Urban Co-operative Bank Limited, Nagpur, Maharashtra

Source: Reserve Bank of India

The Reserve Bank of India (RBl) has, by an order dated July 08, 2025, imposed a monetary penalty of ₹1.50 lakh (Rupees One Lakh Fifty Thousand only) on Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Urban Co-operative Bank Limited, Nagpur, Maharashtra (the bank) for non-compliance with certain directions issued by RBI on ‘Loans and advances to directors, relatives and firms/ concerns in which they are interested-UCBs’ and specific directions issued by RBI under Supervisory Action Framework (SAF). This penalty has been imposed in exercise of powers conferred on RBI under the provisions of Section 47A(1)(c) read with Sections 46(4)(i) and 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.

The statutory inspection of the bank was conducted by the RBI with reference to its financial position as on March 31, 2024. Based on supervisory findings of non-compliance with RBI directions and related correspondence in that regard, a notice was issued to the bank advising it to show cause as to why penalty should not be imposed on it for its failure to comply with the said directions. After considering the bank’s reply to the notice, oral submissions made during the personal hearing and additional submissions made by it, RBI found, inter alia, that the following charges against the bank were sustained, warranting imposition of monetary penalty:

The bank had:

sanctioned a director related loan; and
not reduced single borrower exposure limit, for fresh loans and advances, by 50% of the applicable regulatory limit in non-adherence to the directions under SAF.

This action is based on deficiencies in regulatory compliance and is not intended to pronounce upon the validity of any transaction or agreement entered into by the bank with its customers. Further, imposition of this monetary penalty is without prejudice to any other action that may be initiated by RBI against the bank.

(Puneet Pancholy)
Chief General Manager

Press Release: 2025-2026/689

MIL OSI Economics –

July 11, 2025

MIL-OSI Economics: RBI imposes monetary penalty on Mahesh Urban Cooperative Bank Limited, Parli Vaijnath, Maharashtra

Source: Reserve Bank of India

The Reserve Bank of India (RBl) has, by an order dated July 07, 2025, imposed a monetary penalty of ₹50,000/- (Rupees Fifty Thousand only) on Mahesh Urban Cooperative Bank Limited, Parli Vaijnath, Maharashtra (the bank), for non-compliance with certain directions issued by RBI on ‘Exposure Norms and Statutory / Other Restrictions – UCBs’ and specific directions issued by RBI under Supervisory Action Framework (SAF). This penalty has been imposed in exercise of powers conferred on RBI under the provisions of Section 47A(1)(c) read with Sections 46(4)(i) and 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.

The statutory inspection of the bank was conducted by the RBI with reference to its financial position as on March 31, 2024. Based on supervisory findings of non-compliance with RBI directions and related correspondence in that regard, a notice was issued to the bank advising it to show cause as to why penalty should not be imposed on it for its failure to comply with the said directions. After considering the bank’s reply to the notice and oral submissions made during the personal hearing, RBI found, inter alia, that the following charges against the bank were sustained, warranting imposition of monetary penalty:

The bank had:

not reduced single borrower exposure limit, for fresh loans and advances, by 50% of the applicable regulatory limit in non-adherence to the directions under SAF; and
breached single counterparty exposure limit for Non-SLR investments.

(Puneet Pancholy)
Chief General Manager

Press Release: 2025-2026/690

MIL OSI Economics –

July 11, 2025

MIL-OSI Video: High-level visit from Liberia

Source: World Trade Organization – WTO (video statements)

Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala met with Liberia’s Minister of Commerce & Industry, Magdalene E. Dagoseh, at the WTO on 9 July.
She welcomed Liberia’s commitment to trade-led development and expressed strong support for the country’s efforts to boost its economy through investment, value addition, and regional integration.

Download this video from the WTO website:
https://www.wto.org/english/res_e/webcas_e/webcas_e.htm

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3qiLRIPN0L0

MIL OSI Video –

July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Video: Advancing the global goals together | United Nations

Source: United Nations (video statements)

“The multilateral system is the best we’ve got. There is no other system that can help us to deal with our global problems,” says Bob Rae, President of the Economic and Social Council and Permanent Representative of Canada to the United Nations. As the international community is getting ready to convene for the 2025 High-level Political Forum on Sustainable Development this month, Ambassador Rae stresses the opportunities for multilateral action.

Read more: https://desapublications.un.org/un-desa-voice/feature/july-2025/advancing-global-goals-together

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tXT8bIghjv0

MIL OSI Video –

July 11, 2025
India’s quick commerce market to triple to Rs 2 lakh crore by FY28: Report

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

The Indian quick commerce (Q-commerce) market’s gross order value is poised for exponential growth, nearly tripling from an estimated Rs 64,000 crore in FY25 to around Rs 2 lakh crore by FY28, according to a report on Thursday.

India’s Q-commerce market is estimated to have reached around Rs 64,000 crore in FY25, growing at a staggering CAGR of 142 per cent during FY22-FY25, driven by evolving consumer preferences, hyperlocal infrastructure, and a lower base, according to the report by CareEdge Advisory, a subsidiary of CareEdge Ratings.

“While growth remains strong, the focus is shifting from rapid expansion to reviving profitability and operational efficiency. Going forward, deeper penetration in Tier 2 and 3 cities, and tech-led innovations will likely define the next phase of India’s Q-commerce landscape,” said Tanvi Shah, Senior Director and Head, CareEdge Advisory and Research.

The Q-commerce market revenue generated through fees has grown at a significantly faster pace than the GOV.

The fee-based revenue, which stood at Rs 450 crore in FY22, has reached an estimated Rs 10,500 crore in FY25 and is further projected to reach Rs 34,500 crore by FY28, representing a significant CAGR of 26-27 per cent from FY25 to FY28.

This sharp increase is due to increased platform fees by major players, resulting in higher revenue realisation and a substantial increase in overall GOV, the report added.

Q-commerce industry is still just around 1 per cent of India’s massive grocery market, but that’s exactly what makes it exciting.

“As more consumers embrace the speed and convenience it offers, Q-commerce is set to grow rapidly, even if the broader grocery market growth remains flat,” said Amir Shaikh, Assistant Director, CareEdge Advisory and Research.

This digital backbone has enabled the rapid adoption of e-commerce and Q-commerce platforms. India had over 270 million online shoppers in 2024, making it the second-largest e-retail user base globally.

The e-commerce market grew 23.8 per cent YoY in 2024 and is expected to maintain a CAGR of 21.5 per cent through 2030.

India’s Q-commerce surge is strongly driven by rising digital adoption and expanding consumer spending power.

As of early 2025, the country had over 1.12 billion mobile connections, with 806 million internet users, representing a 6.5 per cent YoY increase, and is projected to exceed 900 million users by year-end.

(IANS)

July 11, 2025
Global end-user spending on GenAI models to reach $14.2 billion in 2025

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

A Gartner report said on Thursday that worldwide end-user spending on generative AI (GenAI) models is projected to reach $14.2 billion in 2025.

End-user spending on specialised GenAI models, which include domain-specific language models (DSLMs), is estimated to total $1.1 billion this year.

Specialised GenAI models are trained or fine-tuned on industry or business process-specific data.

Gartner predicts that by 2027, more than half of the GenAI models used by enterprises will be domain-specific (that is, specific to an industry or business function), up from 1 per cent in 2024.

“Foundation GenAI models (including LLMs) are trained on vast amounts of data and used for many different tasks. They are the first models supporting GenAI and will continue to represent the largest area of spending by organizations in the coming years,” said Arunasree Cheparthi, Senior Principal Research Analyst at Gartner.

However, organisations are also turning to more domain-specific or vertical GenAI models because they offer improved performance, cost, reliability and relevance in targeted enterprise use cases over foundation models, she mentioned.

An earlier Gartner report had said that global generative AI spending is expected to reach $644 billion in 2025, a surge of 76.4 per cent from 2024. GenAI spending in 2025 will be driven largely by the integration of AI capabilities into hardware, such as servers, smartphones and PCs, with 80 per cent of GenAI spending going towards hardware.

GenAI spending is poised for significant growth across all core markets and submarkets in 2025. GenAI will have a transformative impact across all aspects of IT spending markets, suggesting a future where AI technologies become increasingly integral to business operations and consumer products, the report had mentioned.

Foundational model providers are investing billions annually to enhance GenAI models’ size, performance, and reliability. This paradox will persist through 2025 and 2026.

(IANS)

July 11, 2025
Global end-user spending on GenAI models to reach $14.2 billion in 2025

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

A Gartner report said on Thursday that worldwide end-user spending on generative AI (GenAI) models is projected to reach $14.2 billion in 2025.

End-user spending on specialised GenAI models, which include domain-specific language models (DSLMs), is estimated to total $1.1 billion this year.

Specialised GenAI models are trained or fine-tuned on industry or business process-specific data.

Gartner predicts that by 2027, more than half of the GenAI models used by enterprises will be domain-specific (that is, specific to an industry or business function), up from 1 per cent in 2024.

“Foundation GenAI models (including LLMs) are trained on vast amounts of data and used for many different tasks. They are the first models supporting GenAI and will continue to represent the largest area of spending by organizations in the coming years,” said Arunasree Cheparthi, Senior Principal Research Analyst at Gartner.

However, organisations are also turning to more domain-specific or vertical GenAI models because they offer improved performance, cost, reliability and relevance in targeted enterprise use cases over foundation models, she mentioned.

An earlier Gartner report had said that global generative AI spending is expected to reach $644 billion in 2025, a surge of 76.4 per cent from 2024. GenAI spending in 2025 will be driven largely by the integration of AI capabilities into hardware, such as servers, smartphones and PCs, with 80 per cent of GenAI spending going towards hardware.

GenAI spending is poised for significant growth across all core markets and submarkets in 2025. GenAI will have a transformative impact across all aspects of IT spending markets, suggesting a future where AI technologies become increasingly integral to business operations and consumer products, the report had mentioned.

Foundational model providers are investing billions annually to enhance GenAI models’ size, performance, and reliability. This paradox will persist through 2025 and 2026.

(IANS)

July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government seeks new BSL Advisory Board members to break down barriers to opportunity faced by Deaf people
Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

Press release

Government seeks new BSL Advisory Board members to break down barriers to opportunity faced by Deaf people

The British Sign Language (BSL) Advisory Board is recruiting for a new co-chair and 15 new board members.
The image shows a meeting of the BSL Advisory Board in progress. It includes members of the Board and The Rt Hon Sir Stephen Timms MP.

Applications are now open for 15 new Board members and a new co-chair

Current terms for BSL Advisory Board members are due to end 31 December 2025

BSL Advisory Board plays a vital role in advising the government

The British Sign Language (BSL) Advisory Board is recruiting for a new co-chair and 15 new board members.

The terms of the current chair and members are due to run out on 31 December 2025 after members were recruited for a 3-year term in 2022.

The BSL Advisory Board chair advert will be live for 4 weeks, and the BSL Advisory Board member advert will be live for 6 weeks.

Minister for Social Security and Disability, Sir Stephen Timms MP, said:

This Government is committed to championing the rights of BSL users and Deaf people.

The BSL Advisory Board plays an integral role in advising the government on the day to day issues that Deaf people face and we will work closely with them so that their views and voices are at the heart of everything we do.

I look forward to continuing to work with the Board to deliver on our shared goals of breaking down barriers to opportunity for BSL users.

Following the passage of the BSL Act, the BSL Advisory Board was created to advise the government on key issues impacting the Deaf community in their everyday life.

It is the first dual language board advising the UK government, and operates in both BSL and English. The Board meets regularly and has established subgroups to focus on particular priorities including education and health and social care.

The Board has also established 2 short term working groups focussing on the Deafblind interpreter shortage and accessible technology.

Guided by lived experience, the BSL Advisory Board is central to the government’s mission to break down barriers to opportunity. It ensures the government meets its BSL Act duties, advising on key issues for Deaf people in education, health, technology, and Deafblindness.

The government is committed to a fair, open recruitment process, welcoming diverse skills and perspectives from across Great Britain, particularly under-represented groups.

BSL version of this press release

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w8n-3IdxhgY

Notes to editors

An online webinar will be hosted by the Disability Unit to inform the Deaf community about the board member role and the recruitment process. Interpreters will be provided for this event.

Recruitment will be conducted in both BSL and English and applications will be welcomed in both languages.

Related links

Apply to be a BSL Advisory Board member or co-chair – GOV.UK

British Sign Language (BSL) Advisory Board: meeting summaries – GOV.UK

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Published 10 July 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI China: China eyes deeper Belt and Road cooperation with Egypt — premier

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

Chinese Premier Li Qiang meets with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi in Cairo, Egypt, July 10, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

CAIRO, July 10 — Chinese Premier Li Qiang said here on Thursday that China is willing to strengthen Belt and Road cooperation with Egypt in such areas as economy, trade, finance, manufacturing, new energy, science and technology, and cultural and people-to-people exchanges.

During his meeting with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, Li also said that China is willing to encourage more capable Chinese enterprises to invest in Egypt.

Li conveyed to Sisi cordial greetings from Chinese President Xi Jinping, saying that China-Egypt relations have flourished in recent years under the strategic guidance of the two heads of state.

The Chinese side, Li said, is ready to work with Egypt to take the 70th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two countries next year as an opportunity to carry forward the traditional friendship, consolidate political mutual trust, and continue to firmly support each other on issues concerning each other’s core interests.

China is also willing to join Egypt to continue to enrich the China-Egypt comprehensive strategic partnership, push for more achievements in cooperation in various fields between the two nations, and keep moving forward to the goal of building a China-Egypt community with a shared future in the new era.

The international landscape is marked by mounting turbulence and escalating disorder, with prolonged and unresolved conflicts particularly afflicting the West Asian and North African regions, Li said.

China stands ready to maintain close communication with Egypt and promote an early ceasefire in Gaza, Li said.

The Chinese side is also ready to join Egypt in alleviating the humanitarian crisis, preventing the spillover and escalation of the conflict, and making unremitting efforts for a comprehensive, just and lasting settlement of the Palestinian issue, said the Chinese premier.

He said China is willing to work with Egypt to enhance communication and coordination within multilateral platforms including the United Nations, BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, and practice true multilateralism.

Li added that China will work with Egypt to promote an equal and orderly multipolar world and a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization, and push for the steady and long-term development of China-Arab and China-Africa cooperation.

Chinese Premier Li Qiang meets with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi in Cairo, Egypt, July 10, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

MIL OSI China News –

July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI China: China to work with Egypt to practice true multilateralism — Chinese premier

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

CAIRO, July 10 — China is willing to work with Egypt to practice true multilateralism, and promote an equal and orderly multipolar world and a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization, Chinese Premier Li Qiang said here on Thursday.

Li’s remarks came during his meeting with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi. Li is on an official visit to the country at the invitation of Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Kamal Madbouly.

MIL OSI China News –

July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI China: China raises basic pension benefits for retirees

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

BEIJING, July 10 — China announced Thursday that it will raise basic pension benefits for retirees in 2025.

The average monthly payment for pensioners is set to be lifted by 2 percent from the 2024 level, according to a circular jointly issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security and the Ministry of Finance.

MIL OSI China News –

July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI China: China raises basic pension benefits for retirees

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

BEIJING, July 10 — China announced Thursday that it will raise basic pension benefits for retirees in 2025.

The average monthly payment for pensioners is set to be lifted by 2 percent from the 2024 level, according to a circular jointly issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security and the Ministry of Finance.

MIL OSI China News –

July 11, 2025

Category: AM-NC

Pursue dialogue, not violence

Political stalemate

Government seeks new BSL Advisory Board members to break down barriers to opportunity faced by Deaf people

BSL version of this press release

Notes to editors

Related links

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Updates to this page