Source: APO – Report:
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HE Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Malawi Nancy Tembo, met with HE Ambassador of the State of Qatar (non-resident) to Malawi Fahad Rashid Al Muraikhi.
The meeting reviewed cooperation relations between the two countries.
– on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of The State of Qatar.
Source: APO – Report:
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Small agribusinesses in Nigeria and Côte d’Ivoire are eager to tap into regional markets, but limited digital skills and poor access to online platforms hold them back. Without targeted support, these businesses struggle to embrace e-commerce and expand beyond their local base.
To close this gap, the International Trade Centre trained national advisors and support institutions to help agribusinesses go digital and sell across borders.
Many small agribusinesses in West Africa face barriers to reaching broader markets due to poor digital skills, low online visibility, and little access to e-commerce. These challenges hold back their potential to scale and engage in regional trade.
To help close this gap, the International Trade Centre (ITC), under its ECOWAS Agricultural Trade (EAT) programme, organized a regional training of trainers in April in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire. The five-day workshop brought together six newly appointed e-commerce advisors (three from each country) and eight representatives from business support organizations in Nigeria and Côte d’Ivoire. They received the tools and knowledge to support 30 agribusinesses—15 in each country—to trade online across the region.
The participating advisors were selected for their potential to act as national champions for e-commerce capacity building. They were joined by eight representatives from four partner business support organizations: the National Association of Nigerian Traders (NANTS) and the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Côte d’Ivoire (CCI-CI) and the National Chamber of Agriculture of Côte d’Ivoire (CNA-CI). This diverse mix fostered strong cross-border peer learning and established the foundation for sustained collaboration between national institutions.
“In my view, agro-processors will need this hands-on training to increase their visibility,” said Ibrahima Bamba, Agricultural Advisor at the National Chamber of Agriculture of Côte d’Ivoire.
Anuoluwapo Odubanjo, e-commerce Advisor for Nigeria added: “Thanks to this training, I’m ready to support agribusinesses in developing tailored e-commerce strategies—from choosing the right platforms to managing online sales—so they can scale up their operations.”
The training covered digital marketing, online payment systems, shipping logistics, and customer service. Using interactive tools such as real-life case studies and peer learning, the sessions fostered collaboration and built confidence among participants.
The impact is evident: 11 participants reported a significant improvement in their skills, and many left with action plans to support small businesses in their communities. From training rural entrepreneurs to helping businesses list on e-commerce platforms, the new advisors are ready to make a tangible impact.
Since its launch in 2018, the programme has worked to bridge digital gaps and promote trade-ready agribusinesses in West Africa. By investing in local expertise, ITC’s EAT programme is laying the groundwork for a more inclusive and digitally connected agricultural economy in West Africa.
– on behalf of International Trade Centre.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Shuangliu Yangtze River Bridge completes closure in China’s Hubei
Source: Government of India
Source: Government of India (4)
India marked the 26th Kargil Vijay Diwas with heartfelt tributes to the brave soldiers who secured the nation’s victory in the 1999 Kargil War. On this day, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh laid a wreath at the National War Memorial (NWM) in New Delhi, paying homage to the fallen heroes whose courage and sacrifice ensured India’s triumph. In his message, he described the Kargil victory as a timeless example of bravery, noting that the National War Memorial stands as a living symbol of their sacrifice. On X, he highlighted the soldiers’ extraordinary grit and determination in defending the nation’s honor in challenging terrains, stating that their supreme sacrifice remains a reminder of the Armed Forces’ unwavering resolve.
In Dras, Kargil, a Kargil Vijay Diwas Padyatra was organized by Mera Yuva Bharat under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. Led by Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya and Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth, the 1.5-km march from Himabass Public High School to Government Higher Secondary School, Bhimbet saw participation from over 1,000 youth, serving and retired Armed Forces personnel, families of fallen heroes, and civil society members. The Ministers, accompanied by 100 youth volunteers, proceeded to the Kargil War Memorial, where Shri Sanjay Seth laid a wreath. In a post on X, he expressed confidence that the soldiers’ stories of valor would continue to inspire future generations, keeping the flame of patriotism alive.
Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi also paid tribute at the Kargil War Memorial, honoring the fallen. At the NWM, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh, and Vice Chief of the Army Staff Lieutenant General NS Raja Subramani laid wreaths, saluting the bravehearts’ indomitable spirit. General Chauhan emphasized the soldiers’ unparalleled bravery and patriotism, noting that their legacy, reinforced by the success of Operation Sindoor, underscores the triumph of jointness and courage over adversity. He saluted the serving personnel, veterans, and veer naris for their enduring commitment.
Admiral Tripathi described the bravehearts’ legacy as a testament to “Service before Self,” inspiring future generations and those in the Defence Forces. General Dwivedi called Kargil Vijay Diwas a symbol of the Indian Army’s courage and reaffirmed its commitment to protecting national sovereignty. Air Chief Marshal Singh termed the NWM a sacred symbol of remembrance, stating that the Indian Air Force remains dedicated to upholding the bravehearts’ traditions of courage and duty. Defence Secretary Singh noted that the day reminds the nation of the Armed Forces’ valor, with the NWM keeping their courage alive in public memory. Lieutenant General Subramani added that the soldiers’ selfless service would inspire future generations, with the Armed Forces committed to serving with the same dedication.
Source: Hong Kong Information Services
Secretary for Commerce & Economic Development Algernon Yau today attended the 2nd Zhejiang-Hong Kong Modern Professional Services Cooperation Conference in Ningbo, Zhejiang.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Mr Yau said that, building on the foundation of the Hong Kong/Zhejiang Co-operation Conference Mechanism established in April, the two places will work together to promote collaboration in professional services such as accounting and auditing, legal and dispute resolution, management consulting, intellectual property, industrial design, planning, and architectural and engineering services.
In the first half of this year, Hong Kong has completed 42 initial public offerings, raising over HK$107 billion, which is 20% more than the full-year total for 2024. Mr Yau highlighted that as of June, 19 enterprises from Zhejiang had applied for listings in Hong Kong, accounting for about 10% of the total number of applicants.
He added that this fully reflects the fact that Hong Kong’s robust financial market has become the prime listing platform for Mainland enterprises.
The commerce chief emphasised that thanks to a solid foundation of economic and trade co-operation, Zhejiang and Hong Kong can jointly strengthen collaboration in modern professional services, thereby attracting global investors to use Hong Kong as a springboard to tap the potential of the enormous Zhejiang market, while enabling Zhejiang enterprises to go global by making use of Hong Kong’s professional services.
Mr Yau returned to Hong Kong this evening.
Source: APO
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has called for reforms in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to give Africa not less than two Permanent Seats with veto power as well as two Non-Permanent Seats in the United Nations Security Council. The call was made during the 6th Summit of the Committee of Ten African Union Heads of State and Government on the Reform of the United Nations Security Council (C-10) held virtually on Friday 25th July 2025. The President’s statement was delivered by Amb. Adonia Ayebare, Uganda’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations.
The Summit was convened by H.E Dr. Julius Maada Bio, President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, who is also the coordinator of the C-10. The Summit was also attended by Heads of State of Kenya, Equatorial Guinea, Libya, Namibia and Zambia. The Heads of State of Algeria, Congo Republic, and Senegal were ably represented by Ministers.
Since 2005, the C-10 has been working to, on behalf of the African Union, champion the Common African Position (CAP) on the reform of the UNSC. The resolutions of the C-10 will form the African position to be discussed at the United Nations General Assembly and other fora.
President Museveni called on the United Nations to consider the African proposals for fair representation to rectify the historical injustice against Africa which was perpetrated by the exploitative colonial powers. He noted that at the time the United Nations was founded in 1945, Africa had only four (4) Independent States (Ethiopia, Liberia, Egypt and the Union of South Africa) and only these were invited to the San Francisco Conference at which the UN Charter and the Statute of the ICJ were adopted. Currently, Africa has 54 independent States, which forms almost 28% of the UN membership. It is therefore imperative to reform the UNSC to reflect the current realities.
The President urged members of the C-10 and the African Union in general to step up building the “Africa We Want” in accordance with the vision of the African Union, united, cohesive and speaking with one voice in all aspects of the UNSC reforms.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Republic of Uganda – Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Source: APO
Hon. Odongo Jeje Abubakar, Minister of Foreign Affairs, has received copies of Letters of Credence from Ms. Landis Lauren, the incoming Country Director of the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP). The ceremony took place in the Minister’s office, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Ms. Lauren has been working as WFP Country Director for Kenya and has also previously served in various positions within the United Nations system.
Hon. Odongo commended the efforts of WFP in providing relief assistance to communities especially in Northern Uganda during times of scarcity. The Minister reiterated Government’s commitment to work with WFP to deliver on its mandate in Uganda.
Ms. Lauren expressed appreciation to the Government of Uganda for the commitment to the welfare of refugees. She commended the Ugandan Government for having an exemplary refugee policy, where refugees are given land and other basic services to improve their welfare and maintain family bonds. She pledged to further strengthen cooperation between WFP and the Ugandan Government during her tour of duty.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Republic of Uganda – Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Source: APO
The ceremony, chaired by Technical Advisor Georges Kouadio, representing the Minister of the Environment, Sustainable Development and Ecological Transition, Jacques Assahoré Konan, was held in the presence of representatives of the administration, local authorities, technical partners, sector experts and civil society.
On this occasion, Georges Kouadio argued that the SRIE represents an alert system at the heart of national priorities in terms of environmental monitoring.
“The SRIE is a concrete response to the urgent need for action, to the imperative to better listen to populations and to strengthen collective vigilance in the face of multiple environmental threats. This tool reflects the Ministry’s ambition to build modern environmental governance, based on inclusion, innovation, and accountability,” he said.
The SRIE coordinator, Jean-Yves Kouacou, who is also Director of Information Technology and Documentation, stated that the SRIE represents “an essential operational lever for anticipating, identifying and responding effectively to environmental incidents throughout the country.”
The ceremony also featured a panel discussion on the theme of “Environment and Digitalization: How Does the SRIE Contribute to Improving Environmental Incident Management?” This panel allowed experts to explore the issues surrounding the digitalization of environmental action in greater depth.
Deployed as part of the digitalization of public services, the SRIE also aims to improve coordination between the technical structures involved in the management of environmental alerts and to provide greater transparency on the actions taken.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Portail Officiel du Gouvernement de Côte d’Ivoire.
Source: APO
HE Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al Khulaifi met on Friday with HE Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Africa at the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, Lord Collins of Highbury.
During the meeting, they reviewed cooperation relations between the two countries and means to support and enhance them.
They also discussed the latest regional and international developments, particularly in the African continent.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of The State of Qatar.
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
TEHRAN, July 26 (Xinhua) — At least five people were killed and 13 others were wounded on Saturday morning in a gunman’s attack on the Justice Department building in the city of Zahedan, capital of Sistan and Baluchestan Province in southeastern Iran, the semi-official Tasnim news agency reported. -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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Source: Government of India
Source: Government of India (4)
India’s seafood industry is poised for significant growth following the signing of the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) with the United Kingdom on July 24. The landmark agreement, formalized in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, was signed by India’s Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and UK Secretary of State for Business and Trade Jonathan Reynolds. CETA is expected to boost India’s seafood exports to the UK by an estimated 70%, driven by the elimination of tariffs on a wide range of marine products.
The agreement grants zero-duty access on 99% of tariff lines, significantly enhancing the competitiveness of Indian seafood in the UK market. Key exports such as Vannamei shrimp, frozen squid, lobsters, frozen pomfret, and black tiger shrimp will benefit from duty-free access, previously subject to tariffs ranging from 0% to 21.5%. Products covered include fish, crustaceans, molluscs, fish oils, marine fats, prepared or preserved seafood, fish meal, and fishing gear. However, items like sausages under HS Code 1601 remain excluded from preferential treatment.
In 2024–25, India’s seafood exports reached $7.38 billion (₹60,523 crore), with frozen shrimp accounting for $4.88 billion or 66% of earnings. The UK, a major destination, imported $104 million worth of Indian seafood, including $80 million in frozen shrimp. Despite this, India holds only a 2.25% share of the UK’s $5.4 billion seafood import market. With CETA’s tariff eliminations, Indian exporters are well-positioned to capture a larger market share, competing on equal footing with countries like Vietnam and Singapore, which benefit from existing UK free trade agreements.
The fisheries sector, supporting 28 million livelihoods and contributing 8% to global fish production, has seen robust growth. Between 2014–15 and 2024–25, India’s seafood exports grew by 60% in volume to 16.85 lakh metric tonnes and 88% in value to ₹62,408 crore. Export destinations expanded from 100 to 130 countries, with value-added products tripling to ₹7,666.38 crore. Coastal states like Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Gujarat are expected to lead the charge in leveraging CETA, provided they meet the UK’s stringent sanitary and phytosanitary standards.
Source: Government of India
Source: Government of India (4)
India’s seafood industry is poised for significant growth following the signing of the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) with the United Kingdom on July 24. The landmark agreement, formalized in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, was signed by India’s Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and UK Secretary of State for Business and Trade Jonathan Reynolds. CETA is expected to boost India’s seafood exports to the UK by an estimated 70%, driven by the elimination of tariffs on a wide range of marine products.
The agreement grants zero-duty access on 99% of tariff lines, significantly enhancing the competitiveness of Indian seafood in the UK market. Key exports such as Vannamei shrimp, frozen squid, lobsters, frozen pomfret, and black tiger shrimp will benefit from duty-free access, previously subject to tariffs ranging from 0% to 21.5%. Products covered include fish, crustaceans, molluscs, fish oils, marine fats, prepared or preserved seafood, fish meal, and fishing gear. However, items like sausages under HS Code 1601 remain excluded from preferential treatment.
In 2024–25, India’s seafood exports reached $7.38 billion (₹60,523 crore), with frozen shrimp accounting for $4.88 billion or 66% of earnings. The UK, a major destination, imported $104 million worth of Indian seafood, including $80 million in frozen shrimp. Despite this, India holds only a 2.25% share of the UK’s $5.4 billion seafood import market. With CETA’s tariff eliminations, Indian exporters are well-positioned to capture a larger market share, competing on equal footing with countries like Vietnam and Singapore, which benefit from existing UK free trade agreements.
The fisheries sector, supporting 28 million livelihoods and contributing 8% to global fish production, has seen robust growth. Between 2014–15 and 2024–25, India’s seafood exports grew by 60% in volume to 16.85 lakh metric tonnes and 88% in value to ₹62,408 crore. Export destinations expanded from 100 to 130 countries, with value-added products tripling to ₹7,666.38 crore. Coastal states like Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Gujarat are expected to lead the charge in leveraging CETA, provided they meet the UK’s stringent sanitary and phytosanitary standards.
Source: Government of India
Source: Government of India (4)
India and the Maldives in Friday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to bolster bilateral ties in fisheries and aquaculture, marking a significant step toward sustainable marine resource development. The agreement, formalized on July 25 during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to the Maldives, was announced by the Press Information Bureau (PIB). It is one of six MoUs exchanged between the two nations during the visit.
Signed between India’s Department of Fisheries, under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, and the Maldives’ Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources, the MoU aims to foster collaboration in sustainable tuna and deep-sea fisheries, aquaculture, and eco-tourism. It also emphasizes innovation, scientific research, and capacity building to drive long-term growth in the sector.
The agreement outlines key initiatives, including enhancing the fisheries value chain, advancing mariculture, facilitating trade, and promoting sustainable resource management. The Maldives plans to strengthen its fish processing capabilities by investing in cold storage infrastructure and expanding its aquaculture sector through hatchery development, improved production efficiency, and diversification of cultured species.
Additionally, the MoU will support training and knowledge exchange programs, focusing on aquatic animal health, biosecurity screening, aquaculture farm management, and technical skills in refrigeration, mechanical engineering, and marine engineering. These efforts aim to build a skilled workforce and ensure sustainable growth in the fisheries industry.
Source: Government of India
Source: Government of India (4)
India and the Maldives in Friday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to bolster bilateral ties in fisheries and aquaculture, marking a significant step toward sustainable marine resource development. The agreement, formalized on July 25 during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to the Maldives, was announced by the Press Information Bureau (PIB). It is one of six MoUs exchanged between the two nations during the visit.
Signed between India’s Department of Fisheries, under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, and the Maldives’ Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources, the MoU aims to foster collaboration in sustainable tuna and deep-sea fisheries, aquaculture, and eco-tourism. It also emphasizes innovation, scientific research, and capacity building to drive long-term growth in the sector.
The agreement outlines key initiatives, including enhancing the fisheries value chain, advancing mariculture, facilitating trade, and promoting sustainable resource management. The Maldives plans to strengthen its fish processing capabilities by investing in cold storage infrastructure and expanding its aquaculture sector through hatchery development, improved production efficiency, and diversification of cultured species.
Additionally, the MoU will support training and knowledge exchange programs, focusing on aquatic animal health, biosecurity screening, aquaculture farm management, and technical skills in refrigeration, mechanical engineering, and marine engineering. These efforts aim to build a skilled workforce and ensure sustainable growth in the fisheries industry.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
On 26 July 2025 in Geelong, Australia, the Honourable Richard Marles MP, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, Australia and the Right Honourable John Healey MP, Secretary of State for Defence, United Kingdom (UK) signed the bilateral Nuclear-Powered Submarine Partnership and Collaboration Treaty (the Geelong Treaty) at the UK-Australia Defence Ministers’ Meeting in Geelong, Victoria.
On 26 July 2025 in Geelong, Australia, the Honourable Richard Marles MP, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, Australia and the Right Honourable John Healey MP, Secretary of State for Defence, United Kingdom (UK) signed the bilateral Nuclear-Powered Submarine Partnership and Collaboration Treaty (the Geelong Treaty) at the UK-Australia Defence Ministers’ Meeting in Geelong, Victoria. The Geelong Treaty is a historic agreement, the commitment for the next 50 years of UK-Australian bilateral defence cooperation under AUKUS Pillar I.
The Geelong Treaty will enable comprehensive cooperation on the design, build, operation, sustainment, and disposal of our SSN-AUKUS submarines. It will support the development of the personnel, workforce, infrastructure and regulatory systems required for Australia’s SSN-AUKUS programme, as well as support port visits and the rotational presence of a UK Astute-class submarine at HMAS Stirling under Submarine Rotational Force – West.
The Treaty builds on the strong foundation of trilateral cooperation between Australia, the UK and the United States, advancing the shared objectives of the AUKUS partnership. It will enable the development of SSN-AUKUS and resilient trilateral supply chains.
Importantly, the Geelong Treaty is consistent with Australia’s and the UK’s respective international nuclear non-proliferation obligations, including under the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, the South Pacific Nuclear Free Zone Treaty and its Protocols, and Australia’s safeguards agreements with the International Atomic Energy Agency, and the trilateral AUKUS Naval Nuclear Propulsion Agreement (ANNPA).
Together with the ANNPA, the Treaty will enable Australia and the UK to deliver a cutting-edge undersea capability through the SSN-AUKUS programme, and in doing so, support stability and security in the Euro Atlantic and the Indo-Pacific for decades to come, drive defence as an engine for growth across our two nations, create thousands of jobs, build our respective submarine industrial bases and supply chains, and provide new opportunities for industry partners.
Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Xinhua | 26.07.2025
Key words: Iran
Source: Xinhua
Lightning: Five killed, 13 wounded in armed attack on judicial office in southeastern Iran – media Lightning: Five killed, 13 wounded in armed attack on judicial office in southeastern Iran – media
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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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 26 /Xinhua/ — Four people died in a fire in one of the houses in a gardening non-profit partnership (SNT) in the village of Gorny Shchit near Yekaterinburg last night. Among the dead were three minors, TASS reported, citing the Ministry of Health of the Sverdlovsk Region of Russia.
According to the report, the fire occurred at 02:58 on Saturday in the village of Gorny Shchit, in the gardening non-profit partnership “Rassvet 1”. As a result of the fire, four people died at the scene, eight people, including six children, were injured. One six-year-old child was hospitalized in serious condition with thermal burns on 60 percent of the body.
The open fire was extinguished on an area of 48 square meters. According to preliminary data, the cause of the tragedy was an emergency mode of operation of the electrical wiring. –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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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 26 (Xinhua) — China’s interregional passenger transportation volume increased 4.2 percent year-on-year to 33.76 billion person-times in the first half of 2025, data from the Ministry of Transport showed Friday.
The number of passenger trips made in the country’s railway and civil aviation sectors increased by 6.7 percent and 6 percent year-on-year, respectively, while passenger transportation by road increased by 4 percent.
The volume of commercial cargo transportation reached 28.03 billion tons, which is 3.9 percent more than in the same period last year.
The data also showed that cargo throughput at Chinese ports during the period rose 4 percent year-on-year to 8.9 billion tonnes.
Fixed asset investment in the transportation sector reached 1.65 trillion yuan (about 231 billion U.S. dollars), indicating continued development of infrastructure. -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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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 26 (Xinhua) — China’s general public expenditure rose 3.4 percent year on year to 14.13 trillion yuan (about 1.98 trillion U.S. dollars) in the first six months of 2025, the Ministry of Finance said Friday.
Finance departments continue to support spending in key areas, with budget spending on social security and employment increasing 9.2 percent year on year in the January-June period, according to the Ministry of Finance.
Over the six-month period, budget expenditure on science and technology increased by 9.1 percent year-on-year, while expenditure on education and health care increased by 5.9 percent and 4.3 percent year-on-year, respectively.
The central general public budget’s revenue was nearly 4.86 trillion yuan, down 2.8 percent year on year, while local government revenue was about 6.7 trillion yuan, up 1.6 percent 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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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
Tashkent, July 26 /Xinhua/ — As of July 1 of this year, the poverty level in Uzbekistan has decreased to 6.8 percent, the press service of the head of Uzbekistan reported on Friday.
As reported, the President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev familiarized himself with the presentation of new approaches in the system of ensuring employment of the population and professional education.
“The created system for reducing the poverty level and the funds allocated for this are already producing results – as of July 1 of this year, the poverty level in the country has decreased to 6.8 percent,” the report says.
As reported, new initiatives and measures in this area were presented at the presentation. According to the new approaches, employment agencies should transform from supervisory bodies into partner structures serving employers.
As the country’s Ministry of Employment and Poverty Reduction reported in February, the poverty level in Uzbekistan by the end of 2024 had decreased to 8.9 percent. –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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Source: Hong Kong Information Services
The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government today said it strongly disapproved of untrue and biased remarks by UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy and UK Home Secretary Yvette Cooper regarding lawful acts by Hong Kong to pursue wanted individuals who have absconded from Hong Kong.
In a statement, the Hong Kong SAR Government demanded that the UK Government stop interfering in Hong Kong matters, stressing that these are purely China’s internal affairs.
Nineteen people suspected of involvement in a subversive organisation named the “Hong Kong Parliament” have been put on the city’s wanted list.
The Hong Kong SAR Government said the “Hong Kong Parliament” aims to subvert state power through objectives that include promoting “self-determination”, promulgating a “Hong Kong Constitution”, and overthrowing or undermining by unlawful means the basic system and power of the People’s Republic of China or of the Hong Kong SAR.
The 19 individuals are suspected of committing the offence of subversion, contrary to Article 22 of the National Security Law. The Hong Kong Police Force applied for arrest warrants for them and has put them on the wanted list.
The Hong Kong SAR Government stated that absconders hiding in the UK and other Western countries are wanted because they blatantly engage in activities endangering national security, and even collude with external forces to cover for their evil deeds. It added that it is therefore justified, necessary and legitimate for the Police Force to take all lawful measures to combat such acts of abscondment.
Moreover, the Hong Kong SAR Government remarked that the UK has at least 14 items of legislation to protect British national security, and has therefore displayed hypocrisy and double standards by pointing fingers at Hong Kong’s legal system and attempts to safeguard national security.
It emphasised that it will exhaust all possible means to pursue and combat criminals who abscond from Hong Kong, and to ensure that violations of the law are cracked down on.
The wanted individuals are urged to return to Hong Kong and surrender.
The Hong Kong SAR Government reiterated that it will continue to resolutely discharge its duty of safeguarding national security, whilst upholding the rights and freedoms of Hong Kong people in accordance with the law, so as to ensure the steadfast and successful implementation of the principle of “one country, two systems”.
Source: United States AFRICOM
In coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) conducted an operation against the ISIS-Somalia terrorist network in Somalia on July 25.
AFRICOM, alongside the Federal Government of Somalia and Somali Armed Forces, continues to take action to degrade ISIS-Somalia’s ability to plan and conduct attacks that threaten the U.S. homeland, our forces, and our citizens abroad.
Specific details about units and assets will not be released to ensure continued operations security.
Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police
Investigators in the case of a 20-year-old who was killed in a park are appealing to the public on the one-year anniversary of his death – with a £20,000 reward on offer for information.
Imran Maroof, 20, was stabbed in Plashet Park, Newham, on Saturday, 27 July, 2024. Officers were called to the park with the London Ambulance service around 19:38hrs, following reports of a fight.
Despite the efforts of paramedics, Imran was pronounced dead at the scene.
Detective Chief Inspector Samantha Townsend, from Specialist Crime South, said: “The murder has had a profound impact. Imran’s family and friends continue to live with the trauma.
“One year has passed since this senseless killing, and the Met remains committed to bringing those who killed Imran to justice.
“If you were in the vicinity of Plashet Park on the day of the stabbing or know anything that could help us, we need you to contact us.”
Police have released a photo of the victim – and independent charity Crimestoppers is offering a reward of up to £20,000 for information.
Alexa Loukas, London Regional Manager for Crimestoppers, said: “We know that some people may be reluctant or worried to speak directly to the police with information, which is why Crimestoppers is here. We are completely independent and guarantee you will remain 100% anonymous when you contact us.
“We offer a safe way for anyone to come forward and tell us what they know but not who they are. We are unable to identify any phone numbers or IP addresses if you are reporting online.
“Imran’s family deserve answers, and we hope this reward will encourage someone to do the right thing and speak up with any information that may help the police.”
Anyone with information is asked to call 101, quoting crime reference 6541/27JUL.
Alternatively, to remain anonymous, please contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Source: Greenpeace Statement –
Greenpeace climbers have ended their protest at the iconic Forth Road Bridge in Scotland after successfully blocking a gas tanker owned by the plastics giant INEOS for 24 hours. All 10 climbers descended safely aided by Greenpeace support boats.
The original press release is available here
The protesters began climbing down their ropes in the early hours of this morning. The protest started on Friday with climbers abseiling from the bridge and unfurling six giant banners reading ‘PLASTICS TREATY NOW’. Their action prevented the INEOS tanker INDEPENDENCE from delivering its cargo of American fracked gas for a full 24 hours, as the vessel can only reach Grangemouth on high tides.
All 10 Greenpeace climbers were voluntarily transported to Port Edgar in South Queensferry where they were arrested by officers from Police Scotland on suspicion of Culpable and Reckless Conduct.
Greenpeace targeted INEOS, the UK’s biggest plastic producer, ahead of critical international talks in two weeks to secure a Global Plastics Treaty to tackle plastic pollution. Every month thousands of tonnes of gas are delivered to Grangemouth where they are turned into billions of tiny plastic pellets (nurdles) that are transported around the world. Greenpeace accuses the company of deliberately undermining the talks so it can continue ramping up plastic production.
The upcoming INC5.2 talks to finalise a Global Plastics Treaty are a once-in-a-generation opportunity for governments to stem the flow of plastic that is causing such harm to our towns, environment and wildlife. Greenpeace is demanding that companies like INEOS and their lobbyists, who have a direct interest in making massive profits from selling plastic, are excluded from the talks allowing governments to reach an ambitious deal.
Amy Cameron, Programme Director at Greenpeace UK said: “We’ve achieved what we set out to. By blocking INEOS, we’ve drawn global attention to the company’s bottomless appetite for plastic production, false solutions and profit for its billionaire boss Jim Ratcliffe.
“Their feeble suggestion that recycling and managing waste can hand them a free pass to go on producing more plastic forever is laughable. It comes from the same industry playbook as the health benefits of smoking and carbon offsetting. The plastic pollution problem is just too massive. Less than 10% of plastic is currently recycled globally, and this is set to rise to just 17% by 2060, while the amount of plastic we’re producing is set to triple. The only solution is to address the problem at source which means securing a strong Global Plastics Treaty that imposes legally-binding caps on plastic production.
“INEOS are cutting jobs at Grangemouth while trying to open a massive new plastics plant in Belgium, leaving Scottish workers high and dry. If Jim Ratcliffe really cared about skilled jobs in Scotland he’d invest his billions in supporting his workers to transition into the green industries of the future, instead of throwing money at Formula 1 racing teams and football clubs.”
Contrary to INEOS’ claims, the protest was both safe and caused minimal disruption. The climbers are all highly-trained and spent weeks rehearsing this action to ensure it was safe. They were supported at all times by rescue climbers and support boats. The Forth Road Bridge carries low volumes of bus, bicycle and pedestrian traffic and was closed by Police Scotland – not by the protest directly.
Ends
Notes to editors:
The original press release is available here
Download photos and footage from the protest here.
For more information, or to arrange an interview with a Greenpeace spokesperson, contact the news team:
Source: APO
The annual Eritrean community festival in the Scandinavian countries—Sweden, Norway, Denmark, and Finland—commenced yesterday in Stockholm with patriotic zeal. The festival, which is being attended by a number of nationals from various European countries, America, and elsewhere, was officially opened by Mr. Fesehatsion Petros, Eritrea’s non-resident Ambassador to the Scandinavian countries.
Mr. Alem Teklegergis, Chairman of the Holidays Coordinating Committee, said that Eritrean festivals, beyond being public gatherings, make a significant contribution in strengthening unity and attachment to the homeland, as well as in nurturing nationalism and noble societal values.
Indicating that the Eritrean festival in the Scandinavian countries plays a vital role in preserving national values, Mr. Alem added that the successful implementation of the festivals attests to the strong and committed participation of nationals and the effective organization of the community.
The festival, which will continue until 27 July, features seminars, a photo exhibition depicting national development programs and the activities of the Eritrean community in the Scandinavian countries, children’s and youth programs, exhibitions by villages representing Eritrean ethnic groups and national organizations, as well as cultural and artistic performances by a cultural troupe from Eritrea.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Millions of people worldwide are set to benefit from more accurate climate data as the groundbreaking MicroCarb satellite begins its journey to space.
MicroCarb launched from Europe’s Spaceport in French Guiana. Launch photo: ESA-CNES-ARIANESPACE/Optique vidéo du CSG–P. Piron
The MicroCarb mission, developed in partnership with France’s space agency CNES, will become Europe’s first dedicated carbon dioxide monitoring satellite, marking a major milestone in the global fight against climate change.
Successfully launched aboard a Vega-C rocket from Kourou, French Guiana this morning, MicroCarb will join the international greenhouse gas (GHG) virtual constellation of satellites, significantly enhancing global climate monitoring capabilities.
Backed by a £15 million investment from the UK Space Agency, the mission strengthens Britain’s position as a global leader in both climate science and space technology. MicroCarb will orbit 650km above Earth, using revolutionary city-scanning technology to map CO₂ emissions across urban areas at an unprecedented 2km x 2km resolution—a level of detail never before achieved from space. This capability is vital for understanding emissions from cities, which are responsible for over 70% of global CO₂ output.
UK Minister for Space, Sir Chris Bryant, said:
This groundbreaking mission is proof of what can be achieved when we harness the strength of Britain’s burgeoning space industry, together with our deep scientific expertise. Bolstered with £15 million UK Government backing, the MicroCarb satellite will overhaul our ability to track carbon emissions – supporting the clean energy mission that’s key to this Government’s Plan for Change.
It’s also further evidence of the value of our deep and unique relationship with France: a partnership which the Prime Minister reinforced, with President Macron, at the UK-France Summit earlier this month.
Artist’s impression of MicroCarb in orbit. © CNES/ill./SATTLER Oliver, 2021
The satellite’s precise measurements will help verify climate targets and guide net zero strategies, providing governments with the data needed to track progress toward the Paris Agreement and develop effective carbon reduction policies.
Dr Paul Bate, Chief Executive of the UK Space Agency, said:
Satellites like MicroCarb are our eyes in the sky. Over half of the critical data we use to understand climate change comes from space, and MicroCarb’s successful launch is a major leap forward in our ability to track carbon emissions and absorption with unprecedented accuracy, from the world’s cities to its forests and oceans.
Backed by UK and French investment and expertise, it’s a proud moment for both our space sectors and a powerful example of international collaboration in action.
In addition to urban emissions, MicroCarb will monitor natural carbon sinks such as forests and oceans, enhancing scientific understanding of how much carbon is absorbed by the planet and where. This data will be essential for improving national carbon inventories and identifying new opportunities for carbon capture and storage (CCS).
MicroCarb will measure Solar Induced Fluorescence (SIF), a faint glow plants give off during photosynthesis. This helps scientists track how much carbon plants absorb, offering valuable insights into the carbon cycle, and supporting direct measurements of CO₂ in the atmosphere by helping to differentiate plant from anthropogenic CO₂ emissions.
UK scientists and industry have played a central role in the development and delivery of the MicroCarb mission. The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) provided the SI-traceable ground calibration facility to test the satellite’s performance before launch. NPL’s Paul Green is also working with the MicroCarb team to develop algorithms and quality metrics to ensure the accuracy of the data.
Thales Alenia Space in the UK were responsible for preparing Microcarb for launch and completed the satellite’s assembly, integration, and test activities at the Science and Technology Facilities Council’s RAL Space in Harwell. RAL Space also developed the pointing and calibration system that enables MicroCarb to take precise measurements at specific locations.
GMV UK, in collaboration with France’s Capgemini, is designing, implementing, and quality-assuring algorithms and operational processors for several of MicroCarb’s CO₂ data products, ensuring robust and reliable data delivery.
Working on the fairing for Vega-C flight VV27. Credit: ESA-CNES-ARIANESPACE/Optique vidéo du CSG–S. Martin
Professor Paul Palmer, from The National Centre for Earth Observation (NCEO) and the University of Edinburgh, is the UK lead for MicroCarb. He will translate the satellite’s CO₂ observations into detailed maps showing carbon absorption and emissions. Dr Rob Parker, also part of the NCEO team, is delivering the mission’s SIF retrieval algorithm, drawing on expertise from the University of Leicester.
Paul Palmer, UK lead for Microcarb said:
Currently, we are witnessing rapid and unprecedented changes in the global carbon cycle. MicroCarb will deliver SIF and atmospheric CO₂ data that are crucial for understanding those changes. It will also reinvigorate an aging virtual satellite constellation, providing high quality data to inform the next Global Stocktake of the Paris Agreement.
More broadly, MicroCarb exemplifies the world-class capabilities of UK science and engineering, working closely with our French colleagues.
UK scientists have worked closely with their French counterparts as key members of the Mission Advisory Group (MAG), playing a vital role in preparing for the mission and continuing their involvement during the Calibration-Validation phases after launch.
MicroCarb is part of a bilateral agreement signed in 2014, and renewed in 2021, between France and the UK, showcasing a strong collaboration in space programmes. The UK and France recently deepened their strategic partnership across space and security technologies, including with specific announcements in satellite communications and PNT.
As the world races to limit global warming to 1.5°C, MicroCarb represents a critical step forward in delivering the transparent, verifiable data needed to hold nations accountable and accelerate the transition to a low-carbon future. The first MicroCarb data products are expected to be released in roughly 1 year, offering insights into major urban emitters and the performance of natural carbon sinks. These findings will feed into international climate assessments and future satellite missions under the UK’s Earth observation roadmap.
Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)
Issued by: on
PACIFIC OCEAN (July 21, 2025) Gunner’s Mate 2nd Class Kenneth Rettig, from Gastonia, North Carolina, left, and Gunner’s Mate 2nd Class Adrian Ferguson from San Bernadino, California, right, conducts maintenance on Mark 38 25mm machine gun on the bridge wing aboard the Harpers Ferry-class amphibious dock landing ship USS Pearl Harbor (LSD 52) in the Indo-Pacific on July 21, 2025. Now in its 21st iteration, the Pacific Partnership series is the largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster management preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific. Pacific Partnership works collaboratively with host and partner nations to enhance regional interoperability and disaster response capabilities, increase security and stability in the region, and foster new and enduring friendships in the Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Mario E. Reyes Villatoro)
| Date Taken: | 12.31.2015 |
| Date Posted: | 07.23.2025 07:32 |
| Photo ID: | 9197326 |
| VIRIN: | 250721-N-OJ012-1020 |
| Resolution: | 5504×3096 |
| Size: | 1.2 MB |
| Location: | US |
| Web Views: | 8 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, USS Pearl Harbor (LSD 52) Sailors Conduct Weapon Maintenance [Image 3 of 3], by SA Mario Reyes Villatoro, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)
Issued by: on
SRI VIJAYA PURAM, India — David Mitchell (middle), Captain of pathfinder class
oceanographic survey ship USNS Bowditch (T-AGS 62), poses with Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard personnel in the bridge of the USNS Bowditch during a scheduled port visit to Sri Vijaya Puram, India, July 25, 2025. COMLOG WESTPAC supports deployed maritime forces, along with regional allies and partners, to sustain Western Pacific operations. (Photo by Courtesy Asset, Petty Officer Lawrence Dass)
| Date Taken: | 07.25.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 07.26.2025 04:28 |
| Photo ID: | 9205987 |
| VIRIN: | 250725-N-YV347-1001 |
| Resolution: | 4032×3024 |
| Size: | 2.28 MB |
| Location: | IN |
| Web Views: | 0 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, The USNS Bowditch Departs Sri Vijaya Puram, India, July, 2025 [Image 4 of 4], by PO2 Jordan Jennings, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
Source: Government of India
Source: Government of India (4)
Fighting on the Thai-Cambodian border extended into a third day and new flashpoints emerged on Saturday as both sides sought diplomatic support, saying they had acted in self-defence and calling on the other to cease fighting and start negotiations.
At least 30 people have been killed and more than 130,000 people displaced in the worst fighting between the Southeast Asian neighbours in 13 years.
The Thai navy said there were clashes in the coastal province of Trat early on Saturday, a new front more than 100 km (60 miles) from other conflict points along the long-contested border.
The two countries have faced off since the killing of a Cambodian soldier late in May during a brief skirmish. Troops on both sides of the border were reinforced amid a full-blown diplomatic crisis that brought Thailand’s fragile coalition government to the brink of collapse.
Thailand’s death toll remained at 19 on Saturday, while Cambodian Defence Ministry spokesperson Maly Socheata said five soldiers and eight civilians had been killed in the fighting.In the Kanthralak district of Thailand’s Sisaket province, on the border near some of the clashes, hotel worker Chianuwat Thalalai said the town had emptied out.
“Nearly everybody’s gone, it’s almost a deserted city,” the 31-year-old told Reuters. “My hotel is still open for some of those nearer to the border area that needs a place to stay.”
Thailand’s ambassador to the United Nations told a Security Council meeting on Friday that soldiers had been injured by newly planted land mines in Thai territory on two occasions since mid-July – claims Cambodia has strongly denied – and said Cambodia had then launched attacks on Thursday morning.
“Thailand urges Cambodia to immediately cease all hostilities and acts of aggression, and resume dialogue in good faith,” Cherdchai Chaivaivid told the council in remarks released to media.
DECADES OF DISPUTES
Cambodia’s defence ministry said Thailand had launched “a deliberate, unprovoked, and unlawful military attack” on Thursday, and was now mobilising troops and military equipment on the border.
“These deliberate military preparations reveal Thailand’s intent to expand its aggression and further violate Cambodia’s sovereignty,” the ministry said in a statement on Saturday.
Cambodia called for the international community to “condemn Thailand’s aggression in the strongest terms” and to prevent an expansion of Thailand’s military activities.
Bangkok reiterated it wanted to resolve the dispute bilaterally, telling the Security Council it was “deeply regrettable that Cambodia has deliberately avoided meaningful dialogue and instead sought to internationalise the issue to serve its own political objectives”.
Thailand and Cambodia have bickered for decades over jurisdiction of various undemarcated points along their 817-km (508-mile) land border, with ownership of the ancient Hindu temples Ta Moan Thom and the 11th century Preah Vihear central to the disputes.
Preah Vihear was awarded to Cambodia by the International Court of Justice in 1962, but tension escalated in 2008 after Cambodia attempted to list it as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
That led to skirmishes over several years and at least a dozen deaths.
Cambodia in June said it had asked the court to resolve its disputes with Thailand, which says it has never recognised the court’s jurisdiction and prefers a bilateral approach.
(Reuters)
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BEIJING, July 26 — China’s national observatory on Saturday continued to issue a yellow alert for rainstorms as heavy rainfall is expected in several regions across the country over the next 24 hours.
The National Meteorological Center (NMC) forecast that from 2 p.m. Saturday to 2 p.m. Sunday, heavy to torrential rain is expected to hit regions including Inner Mongolia, Shaanxi, Shanxi, Hebei, Beijing, Liaoning and Jilin.
Some parts in Inner Mongolia, Hebei, Jilin, Fujian and Yunnan are likely to experience heavy rainfall of up to 180 mm during the period, with thunderstorms and strong winds also possible in some areas, according to NMC.
It advised local authorities to make appropriate preparations and inspect the drainage systems in cities, farmlands and fishponds.
China has a four-tier, color-coded weather warning system, with red representing the most severe warning, followed by orange, yellow and blue.