Category: Americas

MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UN Human Rights Council 59: UK Statement on Technical Cooperation in Colombia

Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

Speech

UN Human Rights Council 59: UK Statement on Technical Cooperation in Colombia

UK Statement for the Interactive Dialogue on the High Commissioner’s Report on Technical Cooperation in Colombia. Delivered by the UK’s Human Rights Ambassador, Eleanor Sanders.

Thank you, Mr Vice-President.

We commend Colombia’s continued collaboration with the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and welcome today’s update.

The human rights situation in Colombia remains challenging, as recognised by the UN Committee on Enforced Disappearances on its visit last December, and the visit of the UN Independent Expert on sexual orientation and gender identity in May.

We are concerned at the increase in children being recruited by criminal groups to participate in the armed conflict. Moreover, violence based on sexual orientation and gender identity remains widespread. Human rights defenders, journalists, social and community leaders, as well as LGBT+ communities remain some of the most vulnerable.

For the UK, the 2016 Peace Agreement is crucial to securing lasting peace in Colombia. Its implementation requires a whole of society approach. We continue to urge the Colombian government, civil society and UN agencies to work together on this important issue, particularly through technical cooperation and capacity-building.

We continue to call on the international community to strengthen its assistance to Colombian-led efforts to secure lasting peace, including through supporting an effective response to the recommendations of the Commission for the Clarification of Truth, Coexistence and Non-Repetition.

Thank you.

Updates to this page

Published 7 July 2025

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

July 7, 2025

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Invest Hong Kong surpasses Policy Address performance indicators, attracts over HK$160 billion in foreign direct investment (with photo)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK) today (July 7) announced that it had assisted over 1 300 overseas and Mainland companies to set up or expand their business in Hong Kong from January 2023 to the first six months of 2025, bringing in foreign direct investment of more than HK$160 billion and creating over 19 000 jobs within the first year of operation or expansion, contributing to the local job market and reaffirming Hong Kong’s position as a leading business hub in Asia.

These results demonstrate that InvestHK has achieved ahead of schedule its performance indicators as set out in the 2022 Policy Address. Details are as follows:

	KPIs (From 2023 to 2025)	InvestHK’s results (From January 2023 to the first half of 2025)
No. of companies	at least 1 130 companies	1 301 companies
Direct investment	at least HK$77 billion	HK$168.4 billion
Job opportunities	at least 15 250 jobs	19,136 jobs

The top five locations of origin among the companies assisted span markets in North America, Europe and Asia:

Location of origin	Number
The Mainland	630
Other countries	671
– United States	113
– United Kingdom	89
– Singapore	68
– Canada	38

Among the companies assisted, the top five sectors were as follows:

Sectors	Number (percentage in total)
Financial services and fintech	283 (22 per cent)
Innovation and technology	275 (21 per cent)
Family offices	179 (14 per cent)
Tourism and hospitality	148 (11 per cent)
Business and professional services	129 (10 per cent)

In addition, under the New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (New CIES), InvestHK is responsible for its financial requirements assessment, while the Immigration Department is responsible for assessing applications for visa/entry permits, extensions of stay and unconditional stays pursuant to the Scheme. Since its launch in March 2024, the key numbers of New CIES as of June 2025 are as follows:

Number of applications	1 548
Number of approvals-in-principle granted (i.e. granting of 180-day visitor visas for making investments)	1 188
Number of applications verified to have fulfilled the investment requirements	712
Number of formal approvals granted	673
Verified investment amount	Over HK$ 21 billion
Expected investment amount to be brought into Hong Kong	Over HK$ 46 billion

The Director-General of Investment Promotion at InvestHK, Ms Alpha Lau, said that amid the challenges from external factors such as the geopolitical situation, this will bring both risks and opportunities to Hong Kong. InvestHK will further build on this strong momentum to deepen mutual engagements between Hong Kong, the Mainland and overseas markets. The department will continue to strengthen ties with traditional markets such as Europe, North America and North Asia while actively exploring emerging markets.

Ms Lau said, “Our investment promotion efforts span various industries, aligning with policy directives and closely adhering to the key measures outlined in the Policy Addresses in recent years, such as the low-altitude economy, liquor trade, and the development of the Northern Metropolis. We also assist Mainland companies to go global via Hong Kong and further promote Hong Kong’s advantages as a regional trade and high-end logistics hub. We will continue to leverage Hong Kong’s role as a two-way springboard for Mainland and overseas companies to connect between our country and the rest of the world under the ‘one country, two systems’ principle.”

She continued, “Looking ahead, we will focus on four strategic sectors, namely financial services and fintech, innovation and technology, supply chain management and logistics, as well as sustainable development and the green economy. We are also committed to leveraging Hong Kong’s ‘perceptible and experiential’ soft power to promote cultural ties, showcasing the city’s charm to the world in order to attract foreign investment. This will lead to drive the development of relevant industries and assist enterprises in capital matching through Hong Kong’s stable capital market. We will actively promote Hong Kong as a two-way platform for both attracting investments into the city and helping businesses going global.”

She added, “This year marks InvestHK’s 25th anniversary. Over the past quarter century, we have assisted over 7 700 overseas and Mainland companies from around the world to set up or expand their business in Hong Kong. These companies span a wide range of sectors, including finance, innovation and technology, professional services, and sustainable development, creating over 95 000 jobs and bringing in direct investment of more than HK$440 billion. Hong Kong has always been one of the preferred destinations for global capital. These choices made by investors from around the globe are the strongest vote of confidence in investing in Hong Kong.”

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

July 7, 2025

MIL-OSI: Oceanic Wind Energy Inc. and Coast Tsimshian Enterprises Ltd. Secure IUP for Offshore Wind Development in Hecate Strait

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, July 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Oceanic Wind Energy Inc. (“Oceanic”) is proud to announce a major milestone in the advancement of the offshore wind project in Hecate Strait, located just west of Stephens Island. In partnership with Coast Tsimshian Enterprises Ltd. (“CTE”), Oceanic has been jointly granted an Investigative Use Permit (IUP) for the first phase of development, targeting a capacity of 600 to 700 megawatts (MW). CTE is a 50/50 partnership of the Metlakatla and Lax Kw’alaams First Nations.

“This agreement brings Oceanic and CTE a major step closer to realizing Canada’s first offshore wind project,” said Mike O’Connor, President, Oceanic Wind Energy Inc.

Hecate Strait, in Northwest British Columbia, is home to one of the world’s most powerful and consistent wind resources. With Class 7 wind conditions, low shear and turbidity, average annual wind speeds exceeding 10 m/s, and a winter capacity factor of over 65%, the area offers an unparalleled opportunity to generate clean, reliable energy—especially during BC’s peak demand season.

Strategically located, the Oceanic Wind Project is uniquely positioned to deliver utility-scale renewable power to a region with growing energy needs and limited alternatives. The project could play a critical role in supporting the energy demands of the Port of Prince Rupert and the expanding industrial and resource sectors across Northwest BC.

“We look forward to working closely with Oceanic to develop this transformative project,” said Ryan Leighton, Director, Coast Tsimshian Enterprises Ltd. “This first phase will help power the region’s growth while creating long-term economic and environmental benefits.”

In addition to supporting regional development, the project will contribute significantly to Canada’s greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction goals and reinforce British Columbia’s leadership in cost-effective, green energy generation.

About Oceanic Wind Energy Inc.
Oceanic Wind Energy Inc. is a Vancouver-based renewable energy company listed on the TSX Venture Exchange-NEX (TSXV-NEX : NKW.H) The company is focused on developing large-scale offshore wind projects to support Canada’s transition to a clean energy future.

About Coast Tsimshian Enterprises Ltd.

Coast Tsimshian Enterprises Ltd. (CTE) is a 100% Indigenous owned collaborative undertaking between Lax Kw’alaams and Metlakatla First Nations. The CTE mandate is to promote and develop commercial opportunities for the benefit of the shareholders. Since its founding in 2011, Coast Tsimshian Enterprises has a track record of partnering with First Class organizations to promote the development and implementation of opportunities for Lax Kw’alaams and Metlakatla First Nations.

An Investigative Use Permit (IUP) is an exclusive type of tenure that allows organizations to occupy and utilize Crown land for the purpose of conducting investigations and collecting data related to a potential project or activity.

Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Statements – This news release contains certain forward-looking statements, including statements regarding the business and anticipated financial performance of the Company. These statements are subject to several risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from results contemplated by the forward-looking statements. When relying on forward-looking statements to make decisions, investors and others should carefully consider the foregoing factors and other uncertainties and should not place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements, oral or written, made by itself or on its behalf.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

For further information please contact:
Michael O’Connor, President & CEO
Oceanic Wind Energy Inc.
Tel: 604-631-4483
Email: moconnor@oceanicwind.ca

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ac71e99d-50f8-4407-a85e-b1fe634b4964

The MIL Network –

July 7, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Petrosen Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to Speak at African Energy Week (AEW) 2025 as Senegal Unlocks Next Phase of Gas Development

Source: APO

Alioune Guèye, CEO of Senegal’s national oil company (NOC) Petrosen, has confirmed his participation as a speaker at African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies 2025, Africa’s premier energy event taking place from September 29 to October 3 in Cape Town. His participation follows a series of historic milestones for Senegal’s energy sector, signaling the country’s emergence as a key player in global gas and downstream development.

Petrosen has been instrumental in achieving first gas at the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) LNG project – a landmark joint development between Senegal and Mauritania. Spearheaded by multinational oil and gas company bp and upstream oil company Kosmos Energy, alongside Petrosen and Mauritania’s NOC Société Mauritanienne des Hydrocarbures, the GTA project officially commenced operations on December 31, 2024. With gas flowing from deepwater reservoirs via subsea infrastructure to a floating LNG hub, the GTA development marks West Africa’s entry into the global LNG supply chain, with a capacity of 2.5 million tons per annum in its first phase.

AEW: Invest in African Energies is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit http://www.AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event.

Guèye’s participation at AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025 also comes as Petrosen courts new partners for the Yakaar-Teranga gas project – a 25 trillion cubic feet discovery – which is expected to reach a final investment decision in 2025. The project, co-operated with Kosmos Energy, will serve both domestic gas-to-power demand and LNG export ambitions.

Meanwhile, in 2024, the Sangomar offshore field produced 16.9 million barrels of oil – exceeding its 11.7-million-barrel target. Operated by petroleum exploration and production company Woodside Energy with Petrosen holding an 18% interest, Sangomar is expected to deliver up to 100,000 barrels per day, bolstering the country’s oil revenues and energy security. Production on the field began in June 2024, which represents Senegal’s first offshore oil development and a major step toward energy self-sufficiency.

In the downstream sector, Petrosen recently completed feasibility studies for the Senegal Fertilizer Company, a gas-fed urea plant with an annual production capacity of 100,000 tons. Designed to strengthen Senegal’s agricultural value chain and export competitiveness, the plant will utilize domestic gas and phosphate to produce urea and NPK compound fertilizers for regional and global markets – including Europe, the U.S. and Brazil.

“Senegal is at a critical juncture in its energy development as the country pursues large-scale oil and gas projects and positions itself as one of Africa’s most attractive energy investment destinations. Petrosen’s leadership across landmark projects like GTA, Yakaar-Teranga and Sangomar is sending a clear signal to global investors: Senegal is open for business, fiscally sound and committed to long-term value creation across the energy value chain,” states Tomás Gerbasio, VP of Commercial and Strategic Engagement, African Energy Chamber.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

Media files

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MIL OSI Africa –

July 7, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: United States (U.S.) Consulate Launches 29th American Space in Nigeria, Deepens People-to-People Ties

Source: APO

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On Thursday, Acting U.S. Consul General JoEllen Gorg joined Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun to officially open the Ogun Tech Hub Window on America, the 29th American Space in Nigeria. This new center—the second in Abeokuta—was established through a partnership between the U.S. Consulate General, Ogun State Government, and GFA Technologies, a leading tech company that supports innovative startups.

The Ogun Tech Hub Window on America offers a vibrant, American-themed environment where young Nigerians can explore ideas, build leadership capacity, and sharpen their entrepreneurial and tech skills through interactive programs and workshops. The center also provides access to high-speed internet, computers, and a wide range of digital resources to support learning, research, and professional development. Visitors can also receive guidance on studying in the United States through various educational advising programs.

Delivering remarks at the ribbon cutting ceremony attended by alumni of U.S. government exchange programs, Ogun State government officials, and members of the local academic, business, and artistic community, Acting Consul General Gorg explained that the Window on America is designed to expand the already strong bonds of friendship and deepen educational and cultural ties between the United States and Nigeria.

“We are delighted to partner with the Ogun State Government and GFA Technologies to open the Ogun Tech Hub Window on America in Abeokuta,” Acting Consul General Gorg said. “This Window on America is a collaborative and technology-driven center dedicated to education, innovation, and partnership benefitting all residents of Ogun State and beyond.”

Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun described the Ogun Tech Hub Window on America as a center for knowledge exchange, skills development, and peer-to-peer collaboration between young people in Ogun State and their counterparts in the United States. He underscored the importance of digital skills training offered at the Ogun Tech Hub Window on America in driving sustainable economic growth, generating employment, and enhancing the quality of life of citizens.

“This is the opening of a window to endless possibilities. I urge Ogun State residents to take full ownership of groundbreaking initiatives like the Ogun Tech Hub Window on America. It is not just a room—it is a realized vision, a democratized platform for global learning, connection, and opportunity,” Governor Abiodun added.

Co-Founder/Chief Executive Officer of GFA Technologies, Debo Omololu, lauded the U.S. government for the partnership that culminated in the opening of the Ogun Tech Hub Window on America. He expressed optimism that young people in Ogun State and its environs would benefit immensely from the resources and programs available at the center. “The Ogun Tech Hub is proud to join the global network of American Spaces. One of the core themes of our programming is to provide technological learning opportunities that drive digital transformation,” Omololu added.

Programs offered at the Window on America will showcase the depth and breadth of American culture, values, ideals, and perspectives on a variety of themes from employability workshops to digital skills, AI, robotics, drone technology and other STEM learning opportunities. Visitors to the Ogun Tech Hub Window on America will include students, teachers, entrepreneurs, academics, journalists, civic organizations, government officials, and community leaders, among many others.

In addition, the new center will offer access to academic and research resources via eLibraryUSA, a digital library with millions of publications, scholarly journals, eBooks, audio, video, and other multi-media content. Like all American Spaces around the world, programs and resources, including high speed internet access, offered at the Window on America are free of charge and open to everyone in the community.

There are more than 700 American Spaces in 140 countries around the world hosted by universities, libraries, tech hubs, as well as U.S. embassies and consulates. The network of American Spaces in Nigeria organizes over 4,400 programs annually that reach 100,000 Nigerians. Nigeria has more American Spaces than any other African country, with 29 locations across 24 cities. Addresses of American Spaces in Nigeria can be found here.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of U.S. Embassy and Consulate in Nigeria.

MIL OSI Africa –

July 7, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: Central banks and finance ministries of BRICS countries sum up the results of the financial track

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: Central Bank of Russia –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

The meeting of the BRICS finance ministers and central bank governors, as well as a meeting of their deputies, took place in Rio de Janeiro. The participants summed up the work of the BRICS financial track during the Brazilian presidency and discussed prospects for further cooperation.

The focus was on such areas of cooperation as the cross-border payment initiative, settlement and depository infrastructure, reinsurance company, Contingent Reserve Pool, transition financing and information security of the association countries. Within the framework of the BRICS Innovation Hub, the prospects for using artificial intelligence in the activities of central banks, as well as approaches to its regulation in the financial market of the association, were discussed.

Director of the Department of Cooperation with International Organizations of the Bank of Russia Gulnara Khaidarshina noted that common priorities and trust allow the association to develop expert interaction and remain an example of effective international cooperation.

In the second half of 2025, central banks will continue their expert interaction. In 2026, the BRICS presidency will pass to India.

Preview photo: Shutterstock / Fotodom

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 7, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Chengdu set for 2025 World Games

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

With one month to go until the opening of the 12th World Games, Chengdu, capital of southwest China’s Sichuan Province, is entering the final stages of preparation for the premier global event for non-Olympic sports. Venue readiness, volunteer training and public engagement are all progressing steadily.

FINAL PREPARATIONS

At the Chengdu Hi-Tech Zone Sports Center Public Fitness Gymnasium – the venue for squash and racquetball competitions – the installation of temporary seating and lighting is nearly complete.

“The venue renovation is relying on existing facilities and the way of rental is also introduced down the stretch,” said Huang Gang, head of operations at a local construction company.

According to organizers, all 27 competition venues are finished and undergoing final inspections. Eighteen are existing facilities, while nine were temporarily constructed in parks and lakeside areas to keep costs down.

In line with a frugal approach, Chengdu 2025 will not feature a dedicated Athletes’ Village. Instead, athletes will be accommodated in hotels near their competition venues.

Nearly 10,000 volunteers have been recruited for the Games, supported by more than 500 urban service stations to assist athletes and visitors.

“We are ready to welcome guests with full enthusiasm and showcase the energy of young students,” said Hu Ke, a volunteer trainee from Sichuan University. “Keeping a smile is part of the training,” she added. “We’re doing our best to prepare for guests from around the world.”

All competition schedules and event programs have been finalized. Technical teams are stationed at venues, full-scale rehearsals are underway, and 24 test events across 20 sports have already been held.

For the first time in World Games history, a torch relay will be held on July 26. The relay will pass through Chengdu, Deyang and Meishan, covering 11 kilometers and featuring 120 torchbearers. The route includes landmarks such as the Jinsha Site Museum and the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Since November 2024, Chengdu has rolled out a range of community programs to promote the Games and boost local involvement. Sports such as flying disc and archery have been introduced in residential neighborhoods, reaching over 600 communities and attracting more than 120,000 participants.

“I never thought I could try archery in my neighborhood,” said a local resident surnamed Li. “It’s harder than I imagined but really fun.”

In March, a campus outreach initiative introduced sports like parkour, lacrosse and flying disc to 120 schools. Thirty “urban mini-sites” have also been set up across the city, offering interactive experiences and event information.

The Games are also providing a lift to the local economy. In 2024, Chengdu’s sports industry reached a market size of 130 billion yuan (about 18 billion U.S. dollars), with sports-related consumption growing by 13 percent year-on-year to 75 billion yuan.

To enhance the visitor experience, the city has launched six themed cultural and tourism programs, encouraging exploration beyond the sports venues.

ANTICIPATION BUILDING

Scheduled for Aug. 7-17, the 12th World Games will feature 255 events across 60 disciplines and 34 sports. It will be the first global sporting event held in western China since the 2023 Chengdu Universiade.

Anticipation is growing both at home and abroad.

“We are extremely impressed by the professionalism and commitment demonstrated by the Chengdu LOC,” said International World Games Association (IWGA) vice president Tom Dielen during the fifth Coordination Committee meeting in June.

“The preparations are progressing with remarkable efficiency and attention to detail. We are confident that Chengdu is ready to deliver an unforgettable edition of the World Games,” he added.

Around 5,000 athletes from an estimated 110 countries and regions are expected to take part, including approximately 330 Chinese athletes – the country’s largest-ever delegation to the World Games.

For Muay Thai athlete Laura Burgos, representing Mexico at the event is an unexpected honor. “I’m excited to prove myself in Chengdu,” she noted.

Daria Chernegova, an international student in Chengdu, said she’s especially looking forward to the flying disc and cheerleading competitions.

“I’ve played flying disc and worked as a cheerleader. These are sports not seen at the Olympics or Universiade, so I’m excited to watch them live,” she said.

MIL OSI China News –

July 7, 2025
Australia crush West Indies in Grenada Test to take unassailable 2-0 lead

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

Australia overwhelmed the West Indies by 133 runs in the second test in Grenada on Sunday to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series with one match remaining.

The touring side dominated after a promising morning for the hosts during which Shamar Joseph gave West Indies hope with a superb four-wicket haul to dismiss Australia for 243.

Set 277 for victory on a deteriorating track, however, the West Indies slumped to 143 all out.

“We never really got those partnerships going,” skipper Roston Chase said. “The new ball was the biggest challenge – we lost too many wickets. If we could avoid a few wickets in the first 10-15 overs, we would have a better chance.

“Two hundred and seventy was always a challenging task.”

Australia fast bowler Josh Hazlewood struck with his fifth delivery, trapping John Campbell lbw for a duck and Mitchell Starc removed Keacy Carty for 10.

Beau Webster dismissed Kraigg Brathwaite for seven in his 100th test, a milestone match he will not look back on fondly.

Cummins then delivered the knockout punch, bowling Brandon King (14) with a delivery that straightened just enough to clip off stump.

Shai Hope’s dismissal for 17, caught and bowled by Hazlewood attempting a pull, put West Indies in deeper trouble.

Roston Chase made a spirited 34 that included a magnificent six off Starc, but his lbw dismissal on the stroke of lunch effectively ended any realistic hopes of a recovery.

Justin Greaves fell lbw to Starc for two and although Alzarri Joseph struck back-to-back sixes off Nathan Lyon and Shamar Joseph hit three maximums in his 24 the end was inevitable.

“We had to graft our way in both matches,” Cummins said. “I’m pretty proud. The new ball has been pretty tricky for both teams.

“The pitch deteriorated a bit, so it got a bit simpler for our plans. We hit good areas ball after ball, and waited for the game to come to us.”

(Reuters)

July 7, 2025
Australia crush West Indies in Grenada Test to take unassailable 2-0 lead

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

Australia overwhelmed the West Indies by 133 runs in the second test in Grenada on Sunday to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series with one match remaining.

The touring side dominated after a promising morning for the hosts during which Shamar Joseph gave West Indies hope with a superb four-wicket haul to dismiss Australia for 243.

Set 277 for victory on a deteriorating track, however, the West Indies slumped to 143 all out.

“We never really got those partnerships going,” skipper Roston Chase said. “The new ball was the biggest challenge – we lost too many wickets. If we could avoid a few wickets in the first 10-15 overs, we would have a better chance.

“Two hundred and seventy was always a challenging task.”

Australia fast bowler Josh Hazlewood struck with his fifth delivery, trapping John Campbell lbw for a duck and Mitchell Starc removed Keacy Carty for 10.

Beau Webster dismissed Kraigg Brathwaite for seven in his 100th test, a milestone match he will not look back on fondly.

Cummins then delivered the knockout punch, bowling Brandon King (14) with a delivery that straightened just enough to clip off stump.

Shai Hope’s dismissal for 17, caught and bowled by Hazlewood attempting a pull, put West Indies in deeper trouble.

Roston Chase made a spirited 34 that included a magnificent six off Starc, but his lbw dismissal on the stroke of lunch effectively ended any realistic hopes of a recovery.

Justin Greaves fell lbw to Starc for two and although Alzarri Joseph struck back-to-back sixes off Nathan Lyon and Shamar Joseph hit three maximums in his 24 the end was inevitable.

“We had to graft our way in both matches,” Cummins said. “I’m pretty proud. The new ball has been pretty tricky for both teams.

“The pitch deteriorated a bit, so it got a bit simpler for our plans. We hit good areas ball after ball, and waited for the game to come to us.”

(Reuters)

July 7, 2025
Australia crush West Indies in Grenada Test to take unassailable 2-0 lead

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

Australia overwhelmed the West Indies by 133 runs in the second test in Grenada on Sunday to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series with one match remaining.

The touring side dominated after a promising morning for the hosts during which Shamar Joseph gave West Indies hope with a superb four-wicket haul to dismiss Australia for 243.

Set 277 for victory on a deteriorating track, however, the West Indies slumped to 143 all out.

“We never really got those partnerships going,” skipper Roston Chase said. “The new ball was the biggest challenge – we lost too many wickets. If we could avoid a few wickets in the first 10-15 overs, we would have a better chance.

“Two hundred and seventy was always a challenging task.”

Australia fast bowler Josh Hazlewood struck with his fifth delivery, trapping John Campbell lbw for a duck and Mitchell Starc removed Keacy Carty for 10.

Beau Webster dismissed Kraigg Brathwaite for seven in his 100th test, a milestone match he will not look back on fondly.

Cummins then delivered the knockout punch, bowling Brandon King (14) with a delivery that straightened just enough to clip off stump.

Shai Hope’s dismissal for 17, caught and bowled by Hazlewood attempting a pull, put West Indies in deeper trouble.

Roston Chase made a spirited 34 that included a magnificent six off Starc, but his lbw dismissal on the stroke of lunch effectively ended any realistic hopes of a recovery.

Justin Greaves fell lbw to Starc for two and although Alzarri Joseph struck back-to-back sixes off Nathan Lyon and Shamar Joseph hit three maximums in his 24 the end was inevitable.

“We had to graft our way in both matches,” Cummins said. “I’m pretty proud. The new ball has been pretty tricky for both teams.

“The pitch deteriorated a bit, so it got a bit simpler for our plans. We hit good areas ball after ball, and waited for the game to come to us.”

(Reuters)

July 7, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: Kevin Greenidge: Driving instant payments in the Caribbean – a shared vision

Source: Bank for International Settlements

Good morning to all of you.

It is my great pleasure to welcome you to the Courtney Blackman Grande Salle of the Central Bank of Barbados for the Fast Payments Systems Workshop for Caribbean Countries. We are truly honoured to host this meeting of the minds as we advance our domestic payments infrastructure to be more inclusive, efficient, and resilient.

This workshop comes at a crucial juncture for the Central Bank of Barbados as we are onboarding a national instant payments system in Barbados, with the power to catalyse the payments landscape. Rolling out this national instant payment system will integrate our payments network; promote real-time settlement for retail, wholesale, e-government, and securities payments; empower micro and small businesses; support greater system transparency and security, standardisation, and interoperability; and lower transaction and operating costs, as well as settlement times, all while promoting financial inclusion.

Across the globe, central banks are leading the most successful implementations of faster payment systems. These efforts are ensuring that national payments systems are safe, efficient, and accessible to all-especially the underserved and unbanked. As a central bank, we have the responsibility to provide this instant payment system as a public good, which will not only keep pace with innovation, but will also benefit our citizens, our financial sector, the economy as a whole, and our future.

As we at the Central Bank of Barbados are embarking on this journey, we are placing strong emphasis on meeting international standards, while achieving interoperability, built on a solid foundation of robust governance, and strong cybersecurity mechanisms. We are eager to learn from our regional partners’ experiences and align ourselves with global best practices to shape an instant payments ecosystem that works for our unique context.

The workshop agenda over the next two days is both rich and relevant, allowing us to dive deep into the world of Instant Payment Systems. We will examine design principles, governance models, implementation strategies, and operational challenges. We will also explore the integration of overlay services, discuss cybersecurity risks, and consider the potential for cross-border applications. Importantly, we will also hear directly from central banks that have walked this path and have lessons to share with us.

We at the Central Bank of Barbados now have an incredible opportunity before us; to learn from global experts, like our partners joining us from the World Bank and the National Bank of Serbia, examine the experiences of other jurisdictions, and explore just what it takes to successfully implement a faster payments network in Barbados. This workshop is not only timely-it is imperative. We now exist in a world where consumers and businesses expect instantaneous results in every aspect of their digital lives; payments cannot lag behind. Faster payments are no longer a luxury or a future possibility-they are the new standard.

So, I encourage everyone here to contribute actively to the discussions-to ask the tough questions, and to share your own insights and guidance. Let this be a collaborative space where we not only build knowledge, but build momentum as we continue the rollout of our national instant payments system.

I want to express my sincerest gratitude to our partners at the World Bank, whose support and keen technical expertise have been invaluable to the progress of this payments initiative thus far. I also acknowledge and thank my fellow regional central bank governors for their leadership, commitment, and willing collaboration as we move forward in this space.

As we embark on these two days of discussion and discovery, let us remember that faster payments are not just about technology, they are about creating systems that serve people better. They are about making our financial systems and economies more agile, our businesses more competitive, and our societies more inclusive, and our ultimate aim is to implement faster payments systems for all Caribbean countries.

Let us lead this transformation together-with purpose, with partnership, and with the public good at heart.

Thank you, and I look forward to the vibrant exchange of ideas that lies ahead.

MIL OSI Economics –

July 7, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: Kevin Greenidge: Driving instant payments in the Caribbean – a shared vision

Source: Bank for International Settlements

Good morning to all of you.

It is my great pleasure to welcome you to the Courtney Blackman Grande Salle of the Central Bank of Barbados for the Fast Payments Systems Workshop for Caribbean Countries. We are truly honoured to host this meeting of the minds as we advance our domestic payments infrastructure to be more inclusive, efficient, and resilient.

This workshop comes at a crucial juncture for the Central Bank of Barbados as we are onboarding a national instant payments system in Barbados, with the power to catalyse the payments landscape. Rolling out this national instant payment system will integrate our payments network; promote real-time settlement for retail, wholesale, e-government, and securities payments; empower micro and small businesses; support greater system transparency and security, standardisation, and interoperability; and lower transaction and operating costs, as well as settlement times, all while promoting financial inclusion.

Across the globe, central banks are leading the most successful implementations of faster payment systems. These efforts are ensuring that national payments systems are safe, efficient, and accessible to all-especially the underserved and unbanked. As a central bank, we have the responsibility to provide this instant payment system as a public good, which will not only keep pace with innovation, but will also benefit our citizens, our financial sector, the economy as a whole, and our future.

As we at the Central Bank of Barbados are embarking on this journey, we are placing strong emphasis on meeting international standards, while achieving interoperability, built on a solid foundation of robust governance, and strong cybersecurity mechanisms. We are eager to learn from our regional partners’ experiences and align ourselves with global best practices to shape an instant payments ecosystem that works for our unique context.

The workshop agenda over the next two days is both rich and relevant, allowing us to dive deep into the world of Instant Payment Systems. We will examine design principles, governance models, implementation strategies, and operational challenges. We will also explore the integration of overlay services, discuss cybersecurity risks, and consider the potential for cross-border applications. Importantly, we will also hear directly from central banks that have walked this path and have lessons to share with us.

We at the Central Bank of Barbados now have an incredible opportunity before us; to learn from global experts, like our partners joining us from the World Bank and the National Bank of Serbia, examine the experiences of other jurisdictions, and explore just what it takes to successfully implement a faster payments network in Barbados. This workshop is not only timely-it is imperative. We now exist in a world where consumers and businesses expect instantaneous results in every aspect of their digital lives; payments cannot lag behind. Faster payments are no longer a luxury or a future possibility-they are the new standard.

So, I encourage everyone here to contribute actively to the discussions-to ask the tough questions, and to share your own insights and guidance. Let this be a collaborative space where we not only build knowledge, but build momentum as we continue the rollout of our national instant payments system.

I want to express my sincerest gratitude to our partners at the World Bank, whose support and keen technical expertise have been invaluable to the progress of this payments initiative thus far. I also acknowledge and thank my fellow regional central bank governors for their leadership, commitment, and willing collaboration as we move forward in this space.

As we embark on these two days of discussion and discovery, let us remember that faster payments are not just about technology, they are about creating systems that serve people better. They are about making our financial systems and economies more agile, our businesses more competitive, and our societies more inclusive, and our ultimate aim is to implement faster payments systems for all Caribbean countries.

Let us lead this transformation together-with purpose, with partnership, and with the public good at heart.

Thank you, and I look forward to the vibrant exchange of ideas that lies ahead.

MIL OSI Economics –

July 7, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: Kevin Greenidge: Driving instant payments in the Caribbean – a shared vision

Source: Bank for International Settlements

Good morning to all of you.

It is my great pleasure to welcome you to the Courtney Blackman Grande Salle of the Central Bank of Barbados for the Fast Payments Systems Workshop for Caribbean Countries. We are truly honoured to host this meeting of the minds as we advance our domestic payments infrastructure to be more inclusive, efficient, and resilient.

This workshop comes at a crucial juncture for the Central Bank of Barbados as we are onboarding a national instant payments system in Barbados, with the power to catalyse the payments landscape. Rolling out this national instant payment system will integrate our payments network; promote real-time settlement for retail, wholesale, e-government, and securities payments; empower micro and small businesses; support greater system transparency and security, standardisation, and interoperability; and lower transaction and operating costs, as well as settlement times, all while promoting financial inclusion.

Across the globe, central banks are leading the most successful implementations of faster payment systems. These efforts are ensuring that national payments systems are safe, efficient, and accessible to all-especially the underserved and unbanked. As a central bank, we have the responsibility to provide this instant payment system as a public good, which will not only keep pace with innovation, but will also benefit our citizens, our financial sector, the economy as a whole, and our future.

As we at the Central Bank of Barbados are embarking on this journey, we are placing strong emphasis on meeting international standards, while achieving interoperability, built on a solid foundation of robust governance, and strong cybersecurity mechanisms. We are eager to learn from our regional partners’ experiences and align ourselves with global best practices to shape an instant payments ecosystem that works for our unique context.

The workshop agenda over the next two days is both rich and relevant, allowing us to dive deep into the world of Instant Payment Systems. We will examine design principles, governance models, implementation strategies, and operational challenges. We will also explore the integration of overlay services, discuss cybersecurity risks, and consider the potential for cross-border applications. Importantly, we will also hear directly from central banks that have walked this path and have lessons to share with us.

We at the Central Bank of Barbados now have an incredible opportunity before us; to learn from global experts, like our partners joining us from the World Bank and the National Bank of Serbia, examine the experiences of other jurisdictions, and explore just what it takes to successfully implement a faster payments network in Barbados. This workshop is not only timely-it is imperative. We now exist in a world where consumers and businesses expect instantaneous results in every aspect of their digital lives; payments cannot lag behind. Faster payments are no longer a luxury or a future possibility-they are the new standard.

So, I encourage everyone here to contribute actively to the discussions-to ask the tough questions, and to share your own insights and guidance. Let this be a collaborative space where we not only build knowledge, but build momentum as we continue the rollout of our national instant payments system.

I want to express my sincerest gratitude to our partners at the World Bank, whose support and keen technical expertise have been invaluable to the progress of this payments initiative thus far. I also acknowledge and thank my fellow regional central bank governors for their leadership, commitment, and willing collaboration as we move forward in this space.

As we embark on these two days of discussion and discovery, let us remember that faster payments are not just about technology, they are about creating systems that serve people better. They are about making our financial systems and economies more agile, our businesses more competitive, and our societies more inclusive, and our ultimate aim is to implement faster payments systems for all Caribbean countries.

Let us lead this transformation together-with purpose, with partnership, and with the public good at heart.

Thank you, and I look forward to the vibrant exchange of ideas that lies ahead.

MIL OSI Economics –

July 7, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Chinese Premier Calls on BRICS to Lead Global Governance Reform

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

RIO DE JANEIRO, July 7 (Xinhua) — Chinese Premier Li Qiang said Sunday that BRICS countries should strive to be the vanguard in pushing forward global governance reform.

Speaking at the plenary session on “Peace and Security and Global Governance Reform” of the 17th BRICS summit, Li Qiang called on the bloc to safeguard world peace and tranquility and promote peaceful settlement of disputes.

The BRICS leaders attended the meeting, which was chaired by Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.

Li Qiang noted that as changes accelerate at a pace unseen in a century, international rules and order are being seriously tested, and the authority and effectiveness of multilateral institutions continue to decline.

The vision of global governance put forward by Chinese President Xi Jinping, featuring broad consultation, joint contribution and shared benefits, has increasingly proven its contemporary value and practical significance, the premier said.

In the face of growing conflicts and differences, it is necessary to intensify broad consultations based on equality and mutual respect. Profound common interests require joint contributions based on solidarity. In light of mutually beneficial development opportunities, it is necessary to strive for mutual success and common benefits, Li Qiang said.

As the leading force of the Global South, BRICS countries should maintain independence and self-sufficiency, demonstrate a sense of responsibility and play a more active role in building consensus and synergy, Li Qiang noted.

The Chinese premier called on the group to adhere to morality and justice and seek fundamental solutions based on the merits of each issue.

BRICS countries should also focus on developing and strengthening the driving forces of economic growth, Li Qiang said, adding that they should actively promote development cooperation and tap the growth potential in emerging sectors.

Noting that China will establish a China-BRICS Research Center for New Productive Forces this year, Li Qiang also announced the establishment of a scholarship for BRICS countries to promote talent training in sectors such as industry and telecommunications.

It is important for BRICS countries to promote inclusiveness and advance exchanges and mutual learning among civilizations, Li Qiang said, calling on countries to act as advocates of harmonious coexistence among civilizations, striving for the prosperity of various civilizations through mutual strengthening.

China stands ready to join hands with other BRICS countries to advance global governance in a more just, equitable, efficient and orderly direction, working collectively to build a better world, he said.

The leaders of the participating countries noted that the BRICS cooperation mechanism continues to strengthen and become more representative, and its international influence is steadily growing.

BRICS has become an important platform for countries of the Global South to defend their right to development, support international justice and fairness, and engage in reform of the global governance system, the meeting participants said.

According to them, in an increasingly turbulent world where unilateralism and protectionism are growing, BRICS countries should strengthen solidarity and coordination, uphold the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, support and practice multilateralism, make greater contributions to promoting common development, improving global governance, and strengthening lasting peace and prosperity throughout the world.

The meeting adopted the final declaration of the 17th BRICS summit in Rio de Janeiro. –0–

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

.

MIL OSI Russia News –

July 7, 2025
Mexico beat US 2-1 to win 10th Gold Cup title

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

Mexico defeated the United States 2-1 at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas on Sunday to successfully defend their CONCACAF Gold Cup crown and capture their 10th title in a pulsating final that delivered drama from start to finish.

The U.S. went ahead just four minutes in when Sebastian Berhalter’s free-kick found Chris Richards, whose powerful header struck the underside of the crossbar and cannoned straight down, with the referee confirming the goal was good.

Mexico found the equalizer through Raul Jimenez in the 27th minute after the striker converted from close range.

He then dedicated the goal to the late Diogo Jota, his former Wolverhampton Wanderers teammate, by holding up a Mexico shirt with the Portuguese forward’s name on it.

“We came from behind and are leaving with the title,” Jimenez said. “It’s great and really important to clinch the crown a summer before the World Cup. It’s something we’ve been trying to do since the tournament began.”

Despite Mexico’s first-half dominance they struggled to capitalise on numerous golden opportunities.

Roberto Alvarado and 16-year-old Gilberto Mora both tested U.S. goalkeeper Matt Freese, with Mora’s venomous long-range effort requiring a crucial save from the American shot-stopper.

The U.S. created chances through the slick combination play of Malik Tillman and Berhalter but could not breach Mexico’s resolute defence again.

Alex Freeman came closest when his header struck Mexico goalkeeper Luis Malagon in the face and Diego Luna blazed the rebound over the crossbar.

Mexico cranked up the pressure after the break and got the crucial second goal when Edson Alvarez powered home a header, though there was a nervous wait due to a VAR review for potential offside.

However, the goal stood and the Mexican contingent erupted with wild celebrations.

“I’m speechless. We spent 35 days in intense training, away from our families, with the intention of winning. There’s certainly room for improvement, but we’re leaving happy and with our feet firmly on the ground,” midfielder Alvarez said.

“When they first disallowed the goal, it was crazy. It threw me off balance, but I was really happy to see that it was valid.”

Patrick Agyemang had the chance to equalise in the dying minutes but his finish just missed the mark in a tense finale as Mexico held firm to secure their triumph.

Mexico’s victory secures back-to-back Gold Cup triumphs and brings them a record-extending 10th crown. Mexico also won the CONCACAF Nations Championship, the Gold Cup’s predecessor, three times.

(Reuters)

July 7, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: InvestHK attracts $160b investment

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK) today announced that it had assisted over 1,300 overseas and Mainland companies to set up or expand their business in Hong Kong from January 2023 to the first six months of 2025, bringing in foreign direct investment of more than $160 billion and creating over 19,000 jobs within the first year of operation or expansion.

These results demonstrate that InvestHK has achieved ahead of schedule its performance indicators as set out in the 2022 Policy Address.

Regarding the over 1,300 companies, 630 came from the Mainland, followed by the US, the UK, Singapore and Canada.

Among the companies InvestHK assisted, the top few sectors include financial services and fintech, innovation and technology, family offices, tourism and hospitality, as well as business and professional services.

Additionally, under the New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme, InvestHK is responsible for its financial requirements assessment. Since its launch in March 2024, there are 1,548 applications as of June 2025, in which 673 applications were granted formal approvals. The verified investment was over $21 billion, while the expected investment amount to be brought into Hong Kong was over $46 billion.

Director-General of Investment Promotion Alpha Lau said: “Our investment promotion efforts span various industries, aligning with policy directives and closely adhering to the key measures outlined in the Policy Addresses in recent years, such as the low-altitude economy, liquor trade and the development of the Northern Metropolis.

“We also assist Mainland companies to go global via Hong Kong and further promote Hong Kong’s advantages as a regional trade and high-end logistics hub.

“We will continue to leverage Hong Kong’s role as a two-way springboard for Mainland and overseas companies to connect between our country and the rest of the world under the ‘one country, two systems’ principle.”

Looking ahead, Ms Lau noted that InvestHK will focus on four strategic sectors, namely financial services and fintech, innovation and technology, supply chain management and logistics, as well as sustainable development and the green economy.

“We are also committed to leveraging Hong Kong’s ‘perceptible and experiential’ soft power to promote cultural ties, showcasing the city’s charm to the world in order to attract foreign investment. This will lead to drive the development of relevant industries and assist enterprises in capital matching through Hong Kong’s stable capital market.”

In addition to highlighting that this year marks InvestHK’s 25th anniversary, Ms Lau emphasised that over the past quarter century, the Government’s dedicated investment promotion agency has assisted over 7,700 overseas and Mainland companies from around the world to set up or expand their business in Hong Kong.

These companies, she pointed out, span a wide range of sectors, including finance, innovation and technology, professional services, and sustainable development, creating over 95,000 jobs and bringing in direct investment of more than $440 billion.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

July 7, 2025
MIL-OSI China: US dominate Germany to claim FIBA U19 World Cup title

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

The United States reclaimed the FIBA U19 Basketball World Cup crown in emphatic fashion on Sunday, overpowering Germany 109-76 in the championship game.

The victory marks Team USA’s record-extending ninth title in the tournament’s history.

Fueled by a dominant performance throughout the competition, Team USA capped a perfect 7-0 run, setting a new tournament record for points per game with an average of 114.6.

USA’s AJ Dybantsa was named the Most Valuable Player of the tournament. He contributed 11 points, six rebounds and two assists in the final, averaging 14.3 points, 4.1 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1.1 steals per game.

Despite their overall dominance, the USA faced a significant test in the quarterfinals, narrowly overcoming Canada by just six points. They responded with a resounding 56-point semifinal win over New Zealand to reach the final.

Germany, making its first-ever appearance in the U19 World Cup medal rounds and ultimately securing silver, started strong in the final with a 16-9 lead.

The USA regrouped with a 15-7 run to seize the lead and entered halftime with a nine-point advantage. Any hopes of a German comeback were extinguished immediately after the break, as the Americans unleashed a 22-2 surge. Germany, the European U18 champions, could not recover from the deficit.

Six American players scored in double figures, led by Morez Johnson with 15 points.

In the bronze medal game, Slovenia defeated New Zealand 91-87 to secure third place.

MIL OSI China News –

July 7, 2025
Sabalenka stands tall, Norrie survives to reach Wimbledon quarter-finals

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

Women’s top seed Aryna Sabalenka and men’s defending champion Carlos Alcaraz both survived tough tests to reach the Wimbledon quarter-finals and Cameron Norrie kept alive British singles hopes after surviving a five-set thriller on Sunday.

Sabalenka ruined home favourite Emma Raducanu’s dream in the previous round but had the Centre Court crowd cheering her on as she beat Elise Mertens 6-4 7-6(4) in a high-quality duel.

Wimbledon’s new automated line-calling technology came under fire after an embarrassing malfunction robbed Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova of a point during her last-16 victory over Britain’s Sonay Kartal on Centre Court.

Spaniard Alcaraz came through a ferocious firefight against Russian 14th seed Andrey Rublev 6-7(5) 6-3 6-4 6-4 to stay on course for a third successive title.

“Andrey is one of the most powerful players we have on Tour and is so aggressive with the ball. He forces you to the limit on each point,” Alcaraz, bidding to become only the fourth man to win back-to-back French Open and Wimbledon titles multiple times, said on court.

The 22-year-old second seed extended his current winning streak to 22 matches and will take on Norrie for a place in the semi-finals after the unseeded Briton soaked up 46 aces from towering Chilean Nicolas Jarry to win a feisty Court One battle 6-3 7-6(4) 6-7(7) 6-7(5) 6-3.

While Alcaraz seeks a Wimbledon hat-trick, Sabalenka is eyeing her first title on the London lawns after missing last year’s tournament with injury and the 2022 edition due to the ban on Russian and Belarusian players, and the 27-year-old made a fast start against Mertens.

Sabalenka, who claimed doubles titles at the U.S. Open and Australian Open partnering Mertens, was then put through the wringer before raising her level to prevail.

The victory improved her win-loss record against Belgian Mertens to 11-2 and she said the growing adoration of the crowd made a big difference after fans were on the other side of the fence when she met Raducanu on Friday.

“I definitely felt the support. It was so amazing playing and feeling the support. I didn’t have to pretend that they were cheering for me because they were really cheering for me,” said Sabalenka, who will face the 37-year-old German Laura Siegemund in the quarter-finals.

“What can be better than that? I really enjoyed it. I hope it can stay the same all the way, and they help me energy-wise to stay strong and to face all of the challenges.”

HEAVY SHOWERS

Siegemund, the second-oldest player to start in the women’s draw this year, swatted aside plucky Argentine lucky loser Solana Sierra with a 6-3 6-2 victory in a Court Two match interrupted by the heavy showers that prompted organisers to shut the roofs for the day’s play on Centre Court and Court One.

While Sierra was the first lucky loser to reach the last 16 in the professional era, Siegemund created her own slice of history by becoming the oldest woman to reach her first Wimbledon quarter-final.

Explaining her run, Siegemund said it was simple.

“It’s like you have an opponent. Either you find good solutions and you execute well, you go forward, or you don’t, and you don’t go forward. So it’s very simple,” she said.

Sierra’s fellow South American, Jarry, fought back brilliantly against Norrie after saving a match point in the third-set tiebreak but fell short in a needle match.

Jarry seemed irritated at times during the heat of battle and the players exchanged words at the end.

“Cameron played unbelievable. Not unbelievable, played great. He did his job. He plays like that,” said qualifier Jarry, whose total ace count reached a tournament-leading 111.

Asked what happened, Norrie said there had been no problem.

“I think he just said I was being a little bit too vocal,” he said. “Honestly, nothing but credit to Nico for his performance. I guess we both really wanted to win.”

Norrie, a 2022 semi-finalist, is the last British hope after the unseeded Kartal’s run ended with a 7-6(3) 6-4 defeat by experienced Russian Pavlyuchenkova.

The big talking point in that match was the malfunction of the Electronic Line Calling system, which left the Russian former French Open runner-up seething after being robbed of a game point at 4-4 in the opening set when there was no ‘out’ call despite a Kartal shot landing over the baseline.

Umpire Nico Helwerth sought advice from tournament organisers via telephone and then ruled that the point should be replayed, with Pavlyuchenkova going on to have her serve broken.

“We were waiting for a decision as the system was down, but I was expecting to hear if they said the ball was in or out,” she said. “I expected a different decision. I just thought also the chair umpire could take the initiative.

“That’s why he’s there sitting on the chair. He also saw it (was) out, he told me after the match. I thought he would do that, but he didn’t. I think it’s also difficult for him. He probably was scared to take such a big decision.”

Organisers said it had been caused by the system being ‘deactivated in error’.

American fifth seed Taylor Fritz marched on after his Australian opponent Jordan Thompson retired with a thigh injury at 6-1 3-0 down in their fourth-round meeting.

Up next for Fritz is a meeting with Russian 17th seed Karen Khachanov who thumped Poland’s Kamil Majchrzak 6-4 6-2 6-3.

Fritz is not the only American to reach the quarter-finals, after 13th seed Amanda Anisimova beat Linda Noskova 6-2 5-7 6-4 in the day’s final action.

(Reuters)

July 7, 2025
Sabalenka stands tall, Norrie survives to reach Wimbledon quarter-finals

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

Women’s top seed Aryna Sabalenka and men’s defending champion Carlos Alcaraz both survived tough tests to reach the Wimbledon quarter-finals and Cameron Norrie kept alive British singles hopes after surviving a five-set thriller on Sunday.

Sabalenka ruined home favourite Emma Raducanu’s dream in the previous round but had the Centre Court crowd cheering her on as she beat Elise Mertens 6-4 7-6(4) in a high-quality duel.

Wimbledon’s new automated line-calling technology came under fire after an embarrassing malfunction robbed Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova of a point during her last-16 victory over Britain’s Sonay Kartal on Centre Court.

Spaniard Alcaraz came through a ferocious firefight against Russian 14th seed Andrey Rublev 6-7(5) 6-3 6-4 6-4 to stay on course for a third successive title.

“Andrey is one of the most powerful players we have on Tour and is so aggressive with the ball. He forces you to the limit on each point,” Alcaraz, bidding to become only the fourth man to win back-to-back French Open and Wimbledon titles multiple times, said on court.

The 22-year-old second seed extended his current winning streak to 22 matches and will take on Norrie for a place in the semi-finals after the unseeded Briton soaked up 46 aces from towering Chilean Nicolas Jarry to win a feisty Court One battle 6-3 7-6(4) 6-7(7) 6-7(5) 6-3.

While Alcaraz seeks a Wimbledon hat-trick, Sabalenka is eyeing her first title on the London lawns after missing last year’s tournament with injury and the 2022 edition due to the ban on Russian and Belarusian players, and the 27-year-old made a fast start against Mertens.

Sabalenka, who claimed doubles titles at the U.S. Open and Australian Open partnering Mertens, was then put through the wringer before raising her level to prevail.

The victory improved her win-loss record against Belgian Mertens to 11-2 and she said the growing adoration of the crowd made a big difference after fans were on the other side of the fence when she met Raducanu on Friday.

“I definitely felt the support. It was so amazing playing and feeling the support. I didn’t have to pretend that they were cheering for me because they were really cheering for me,” said Sabalenka, who will face the 37-year-old German Laura Siegemund in the quarter-finals.

“What can be better than that? I really enjoyed it. I hope it can stay the same all the way, and they help me energy-wise to stay strong and to face all of the challenges.”

HEAVY SHOWERS

Siegemund, the second-oldest player to start in the women’s draw this year, swatted aside plucky Argentine lucky loser Solana Sierra with a 6-3 6-2 victory in a Court Two match interrupted by the heavy showers that prompted organisers to shut the roofs for the day’s play on Centre Court and Court One.

While Sierra was the first lucky loser to reach the last 16 in the professional era, Siegemund created her own slice of history by becoming the oldest woman to reach her first Wimbledon quarter-final.

Explaining her run, Siegemund said it was simple.

“It’s like you have an opponent. Either you find good solutions and you execute well, you go forward, or you don’t, and you don’t go forward. So it’s very simple,” she said.

Sierra’s fellow South American, Jarry, fought back brilliantly against Norrie after saving a match point in the third-set tiebreak but fell short in a needle match.

Jarry seemed irritated at times during the heat of battle and the players exchanged words at the end.

“Cameron played unbelievable. Not unbelievable, played great. He did his job. He plays like that,” said qualifier Jarry, whose total ace count reached a tournament-leading 111.

Asked what happened, Norrie said there had been no problem.

“I think he just said I was being a little bit too vocal,” he said. “Honestly, nothing but credit to Nico for his performance. I guess we both really wanted to win.”

Norrie, a 2022 semi-finalist, is the last British hope after the unseeded Kartal’s run ended with a 7-6(3) 6-4 defeat by experienced Russian Pavlyuchenkova.

The big talking point in that match was the malfunction of the Electronic Line Calling system, which left the Russian former French Open runner-up seething after being robbed of a game point at 4-4 in the opening set when there was no ‘out’ call despite a Kartal shot landing over the baseline.

Umpire Nico Helwerth sought advice from tournament organisers via telephone and then ruled that the point should be replayed, with Pavlyuchenkova going on to have her serve broken.

“We were waiting for a decision as the system was down, but I was expecting to hear if they said the ball was in or out,” she said. “I expected a different decision. I just thought also the chair umpire could take the initiative.

“That’s why he’s there sitting on the chair. He also saw it (was) out, he told me after the match. I thought he would do that, but he didn’t. I think it’s also difficult for him. He probably was scared to take such a big decision.”

Organisers said it had been caused by the system being ‘deactivated in error’.

American fifth seed Taylor Fritz marched on after his Australian opponent Jordan Thompson retired with a thigh injury at 6-1 3-0 down in their fourth-round meeting.

Up next for Fritz is a meeting with Russian 17th seed Karen Khachanov who thumped Poland’s Kamil Majchrzak 6-4 6-2 6-3.

Fritz is not the only American to reach the quarter-finals, after 13th seed Amanda Anisimova beat Linda Noskova 6-2 5-7 6-4 in the day’s final action.

(Reuters)

July 7, 2025
Sabalenka stands tall, Norrie survives to reach Wimbledon quarter-finals

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

Women’s top seed Aryna Sabalenka and men’s defending champion Carlos Alcaraz both survived tough tests to reach the Wimbledon quarter-finals and Cameron Norrie kept alive British singles hopes after surviving a five-set thriller on Sunday.

Sabalenka ruined home favourite Emma Raducanu’s dream in the previous round but had the Centre Court crowd cheering her on as she beat Elise Mertens 6-4 7-6(4) in a high-quality duel.

Wimbledon’s new automated line-calling technology came under fire after an embarrassing malfunction robbed Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova of a point during her last-16 victory over Britain’s Sonay Kartal on Centre Court.

Spaniard Alcaraz came through a ferocious firefight against Russian 14th seed Andrey Rublev 6-7(5) 6-3 6-4 6-4 to stay on course for a third successive title.

“Andrey is one of the most powerful players we have on Tour and is so aggressive with the ball. He forces you to the limit on each point,” Alcaraz, bidding to become only the fourth man to win back-to-back French Open and Wimbledon titles multiple times, said on court.

The 22-year-old second seed extended his current winning streak to 22 matches and will take on Norrie for a place in the semi-finals after the unseeded Briton soaked up 46 aces from towering Chilean Nicolas Jarry to win a feisty Court One battle 6-3 7-6(4) 6-7(7) 6-7(5) 6-3.

While Alcaraz seeks a Wimbledon hat-trick, Sabalenka is eyeing her first title on the London lawns after missing last year’s tournament with injury and the 2022 edition due to the ban on Russian and Belarusian players, and the 27-year-old made a fast start against Mertens.

Sabalenka, who claimed doubles titles at the U.S. Open and Australian Open partnering Mertens, was then put through the wringer before raising her level to prevail.

The victory improved her win-loss record against Belgian Mertens to 11-2 and she said the growing adoration of the crowd made a big difference after fans were on the other side of the fence when she met Raducanu on Friday.

“I definitely felt the support. It was so amazing playing and feeling the support. I didn’t have to pretend that they were cheering for me because they were really cheering for me,” said Sabalenka, who will face the 37-year-old German Laura Siegemund in the quarter-finals.

“What can be better than that? I really enjoyed it. I hope it can stay the same all the way, and they help me energy-wise to stay strong and to face all of the challenges.”

HEAVY SHOWERS

Siegemund, the second-oldest player to start in the women’s draw this year, swatted aside plucky Argentine lucky loser Solana Sierra with a 6-3 6-2 victory in a Court Two match interrupted by the heavy showers that prompted organisers to shut the roofs for the day’s play on Centre Court and Court One.

While Sierra was the first lucky loser to reach the last 16 in the professional era, Siegemund created her own slice of history by becoming the oldest woman to reach her first Wimbledon quarter-final.

Explaining her run, Siegemund said it was simple.

“It’s like you have an opponent. Either you find good solutions and you execute well, you go forward, or you don’t, and you don’t go forward. So it’s very simple,” she said.

Sierra’s fellow South American, Jarry, fought back brilliantly against Norrie after saving a match point in the third-set tiebreak but fell short in a needle match.

Jarry seemed irritated at times during the heat of battle and the players exchanged words at the end.

“Cameron played unbelievable. Not unbelievable, played great. He did his job. He plays like that,” said qualifier Jarry, whose total ace count reached a tournament-leading 111.

Asked what happened, Norrie said there had been no problem.

“I think he just said I was being a little bit too vocal,” he said. “Honestly, nothing but credit to Nico for his performance. I guess we both really wanted to win.”

Norrie, a 2022 semi-finalist, is the last British hope after the unseeded Kartal’s run ended with a 7-6(3) 6-4 defeat by experienced Russian Pavlyuchenkova.

The big talking point in that match was the malfunction of the Electronic Line Calling system, which left the Russian former French Open runner-up seething after being robbed of a game point at 4-4 in the opening set when there was no ‘out’ call despite a Kartal shot landing over the baseline.

Umpire Nico Helwerth sought advice from tournament organisers via telephone and then ruled that the point should be replayed, with Pavlyuchenkova going on to have her serve broken.

“We were waiting for a decision as the system was down, but I was expecting to hear if they said the ball was in or out,” she said. “I expected a different decision. I just thought also the chair umpire could take the initiative.

“That’s why he’s there sitting on the chair. He also saw it (was) out, he told me after the match. I thought he would do that, but he didn’t. I think it’s also difficult for him. He probably was scared to take such a big decision.”

Organisers said it had been caused by the system being ‘deactivated in error’.

American fifth seed Taylor Fritz marched on after his Australian opponent Jordan Thompson retired with a thigh injury at 6-1 3-0 down in their fourth-round meeting.

Up next for Fritz is a meeting with Russian 17th seed Karen Khachanov who thumped Poland’s Kamil Majchrzak 6-4 6-2 6-3.

Fritz is not the only American to reach the quarter-finals, after 13th seed Amanda Anisimova beat Linda Noskova 6-2 5-7 6-4 in the day’s final action.

(Reuters)

July 7, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: BRICS represents an opportunity to create a fairer world order: Malaysian PM

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 7 (Xinhua) — The BRICS grouping, which has proven itself to be a strong and principled force, represents an opportunity to shape a more balanced and fair international order, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said.

The Prime Minister said in a statement that existing international institutions need to be reformed to reflect the changing global reality and take into account the aspirations of developing countries.

“I also call for a major overhaul of global institutions such as the UN, the International Monetary Fund, the World Bank and the World Trade Organization so that they better reflect modern realities and the needs of developing countries, rather than remaining within the outdated structures that emerged after World War II,” he said.

A. Ibrahim, who attended the 17th BRICS summit in Brazil, also noted that the association should strengthen economic cooperation both among member countries and with other regional associations such as the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

“BRICS and ASEAN members should also continue to strengthen strategic cooperation, including expanding intra-regional trade and investment for mutual benefit of developing countries,” he stressed. –0–

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

.

MIL OSI Russia News –

July 7, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Israel Strikes Yemeni Red Sea Ports

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

SANAA/JERUSALEM, July 7 (Xinhua) — Israel launched a series of airstrikes on Yemen’s Red Sea ports in the western province of Hodeida late Sunday.

The strikes came minutes after the Israeli military issued an urgent evacuation warning on the X social media platform. Witnesses reported explosions in several locations along Yemen’s west coast, including the port of Hodeida.

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said in a statement that the strikes targeted what he described as Houthi strongholds, including the ports of Hodeida, al-Salif and Ras Isa, the Ras Katib power plant and the Galaxy Leader ship, which was captured by Houthi forces in November 2023.

He suggested that a wider escalation could follow. “Yemen will be treated the same way as Tehran,” he said. “The Houthis will continue to pay a high price for their actions.”

Earlier on Sunday, a rocket fired by Houthi forces triggered air raid sirens in southern Israel and was intercepted without casualties, the Israeli army said. The Houthis said it was a hypersonic missile aimed at Ben Gurion Airport near Tel Aviv.

Israel has carried out several strikes on key ports and infrastructure in Yemen in recent months, while the Houthis continue to fire rockets into Israel while declaring solidarity with the Palestinians in Gaza. –0–

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

.

MIL OSI Russia News –

July 7, 2025
BRICS demand wealthy nations fund global climate transition

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

Leaders of the BRICS group of developing nations prepared to address the shared challenges of climate change on Monday, the final day of their summit in Rio de Janeiro, demanding that wealthy nations fund global mitigation of greenhouse emissions.

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has touted the importance of the Global South in tackling global warming as he prepares to host the United Nations climate summit in November.

Still, a joint statement from BRICS leaders released on Sunday argued that fossil fuels will continue to play an important role in the global energy mix, particularly in developing economies.

“We live in a moment of many contradictions in the whole world. The important thing is that we are willing to overcome these contradictions,” Brazil’s Environment Minister Marina Silva said on the sidelines of the summit, when asked about the plans to extract oil off the coast of the Amazon rainforest.

In their joint statement, BRICS leaders underscored that providing climate finance “is a responsibility of developed countries towards developing countries,” which is the standard position for emerging economies in global negotiations.

Their declaration also mentioned the group’s support for a fund that Brazil proposed to protect endangered forests – the Tropical Forests Forever Facility – as a way for emerging economies to fund climate change mitigation beyond the mandatory requirements imposed on wealthy nations by the 2015 Paris Agreement.

China and the UAE signaled in meetings with Brazilian Finance Minister Fernando Haddad in Rio that they plan to invest in the fund, two sources with knowledge of the discussions Reuters media last week.

The joint statement from BRICS leaders also blasted policies such as carbon border taxes and anti-deforestation laws, which Europe has recently adopted, for imposing what they called “discriminatory protectionist measures” under the pretext of environmental concerns.

(Reuters)

July 7, 2025
BRICS demand wealthy nations fund global climate transition

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

Leaders of the BRICS group of developing nations prepared to address the shared challenges of climate change on Monday, the final day of their summit in Rio de Janeiro, demanding that wealthy nations fund global mitigation of greenhouse emissions.

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has touted the importance of the Global South in tackling global warming as he prepares to host the United Nations climate summit in November.

Still, a joint statement from BRICS leaders released on Sunday argued that fossil fuels will continue to play an important role in the global energy mix, particularly in developing economies.

“We live in a moment of many contradictions in the whole world. The important thing is that we are willing to overcome these contradictions,” Brazil’s Environment Minister Marina Silva said on the sidelines of the summit, when asked about the plans to extract oil off the coast of the Amazon rainforest.

In their joint statement, BRICS leaders underscored that providing climate finance “is a responsibility of developed countries towards developing countries,” which is the standard position for emerging economies in global negotiations.

Their declaration also mentioned the group’s support for a fund that Brazil proposed to protect endangered forests – the Tropical Forests Forever Facility – as a way for emerging economies to fund climate change mitigation beyond the mandatory requirements imposed on wealthy nations by the 2015 Paris Agreement.

China and the UAE signaled in meetings with Brazilian Finance Minister Fernando Haddad in Rio that they plan to invest in the fund, two sources with knowledge of the discussions Reuters media last week.

The joint statement from BRICS leaders also blasted policies such as carbon border taxes and anti-deforestation laws, which Europe has recently adopted, for imposing what they called “discriminatory protectionist measures” under the pretext of environmental concerns.

(Reuters)

July 7, 2025
MIL-OSI: Ellomay and Statkraft Sign Long-Term Power Purchase Agreements for Three Operating Italian Solar Plants
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Tel-Aviv, Israel / Milan, Italy, July 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Ellomay Capital Ltd. (NYSE American; TASE: ELLO) (“Ellomay” or the “Company”), a renewable energy and power generator and developer of renewable energy and power projects in Europe, USA and Israel, announced today that three Italian project companies in which the Company indirectly holds a 51% interest signed long-term (9-year) power purchase agreements (“PPAs”) with Statkraft, Europe’s largest generator of renewable energy. The PPAs cover 75% of the capacity (at P50) of three operating solar plants in Italy’s central-southern zone (CSUD), with a combined capacity of approximately 38 MW.

Ran Fridrich, CEO and Board member of Ellomay, said: “This transaction reinforces Ellomay’s strategy of enhancing the value and stability of its renewable platform across key European markets. The collaboration with Statkraft—one of Europe’s most respected and experienced offtakers—strengthens the foundation of this deal. Together with Ellomay’s disciplined development strategy and high-performing asset base, these PPAs set a benchmark for quality-driven growth in utility-scale renewables. Ellomay aims to structure similar agreements for other projects, including its remaining Italian solar portfolio that currently consists of 160 MW under construction processes (51% owned), 124 MW that received construction permits and additional 140 MW that are expected to receive permits in the near future.”

Maya Shaltiel, CEO of Maya International Strategic Alliances Ltd. (“MISA“), who led the negotiation and structuring of the transaction on behalf of Ellomay, said: “We are proud to have delivered bankable and resilient PPAs for Ellomay, in close collaboration with Statkraft. The PPAs support long-term stability for strong renewable assets in Italy and reflect a structure designed to thrive amid market complexity. In a period of high volatility and growing demand for green energy, we secured long-term certainty while preserving merchant upside — a structure that reflects strategic clarity and adaptability to evolving market conditions. We deeply appreciate Statkraft’s partnership and look forward to continuing to support energy transition efforts across Europe.”

Gennaro D’Annucci, Head of Origination Italy at Statkraft, said: “We are pleased to collaborate with Ellomay on this important transaction, which underscores Statkraft’s role as a leading force in the European PPA market. This agreement further strengthens our substantial renewable energy portfolio in Italy and enables us to offer innovative and competitive green supply solutions tailored to the needs of Italian corporates and industrials. It reflects our enduring commitment to driving the energy transition forward and delivering value through clean energy.”

About Ellomay Capital Ltd.

Ellomay is an Israeli based company whose shares are registered with the NYSE American and with the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange under the trading symbol “ELLO”. Since 2009, Ellomay focuses its business in the renewable energy and power sectors in Europe, USA and Israel.

To date, Ellomay has evaluated numerous opportunities and invested significant funds in the renewable, clean energy and natural resources industries in Israel, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands and Texas, USA, including:
- Approximately 335.9 MW of operating solar power plants in Spain (including a 300 MW solar plant in owned by Talasol, which is 51% owned by the Company) and 51% of approximately 38 MW of operating solar power plants in Italy;
- 9.375% indirect interest in Dorad Energy Ltd., which owns and operates one of Israel’s largest private power plants with production capacity of approximately 850 MW, representing about 6%-8% of Israel’s total current electricity consumption;
- Groen Gas Goor B.V., Groen Gas Oude-Tonge B.V. and Groen Gas Gelderland B.V., project companies operating anaerobic digestion plants in the Netherlands, with a green gas production capacity of approximately 3 million, 3.8 million and 9.5 million Nm3 per year, respectively;
- 83.333% of Ellomay Pumped Storage (2014) Ltd., which is involved in a project to construct a 156 MW pumped storage hydro power plant in the Manara Cliff, Israel;
- 51% of solar projects in Italy with an aggregate capacity of 160 MW that commenced construction processes;
- Solar projects in Italy with an aggregate capacity of 134 MW that have reached “ready to build” status; and
- Solar projects in the Dallas Metropolitan area, Texas, USA with an aggregate capacity of approximately 27 MW that are connected to the grid and an additional 22 MW that are awaiting connection to the grid.
For more information about Ellomay, visit http://www.ellomay.com.

About Statkraft

Statkraft – Europe’s largest renewable energy producer – is a company with 7,000 employees in over 20 countries that develops and manages hydropower, wind, solar and storage system assets, also offering PPA (Power Purchase Agreement) solutions for energy buying and selling. With a history and experience of 130 years, Statkraft operates in Italy since 2020, inspired by the group’s core values: We act responsibly, We grow together, We make an impact. Principles that have always guided us towards sustainable and socially responsible action. Indeed, the management of stakeholder relations is respectful of the highest standards of corporate compliance, thus ensuring an ethical approach to business and excellent feedback from the communities that welcome our green investments.

For more information about Statkraft, visit http://www.statkraft.com

About Maya International Strategic Alliances Ltd.

MISA specializes in structuring and negotiating strategic transactions in the energy and infrastructure space. With deep expertise in European and Asian energy markets, MISA supports sponsors and investors in delivering commercially sound, bankable solutions tailored to local and global dynamics.

Information Relating to Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements that involve substantial risks and uncertainties, including statements that are based on the current expectations and assumptions of the Company’s management. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, included in this press release regarding the Company’s plans and objectives, expectations and assumptions of management are forward-looking statements. The use of certain words, including the words “estimate,” “project,” “intend,” “expect,” “believe” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The Company may not actually achieve the plans, intentions or expectations disclosed in the forward-looking statements and you should not place undue reliance on the Company’s forward-looking statements. Various important factors could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those that may be expressed or implied by the Company’s forward-looking statements, including changes in electricity prices and demand, regulatory changes, increases in interest rates and inflation, changes in the supply and prices of resources required for the operation of the Company’s facilities (such as waste and natural gas) and in the price of oil, the impact of the war and hostilities in Israel and Gaza and between Israel and Iran, the impact of the continued military conflict between Russia and Ukraine, technical and other disruptions in the operations or construction of the power plants owned by the Company, inability to obtain the financing required for the development and construction of projects, inability to advance the expansion of Dorad, increases in interest rates and inflation, changes in exchange rates, delays in development, construction, or commencement of operation of the projects under development, failure to obtain permits – whether within the set time frame or at all, climate change, and general market, political and economic conditions in the countries in which the Company operates, including Israel, Spain, Italy and the United States. and general market, political and economic conditions in the countries in which the Company operates, including Israel, Spain, Italy and the United States. These and other risks and uncertainties associated with the Company’s business are described in greater detail in the filings the Company makes from time to time with Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 20-F. The forward-looking statements are made as of this date and the Company does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Contact:
Kalia Rubenbach (Weintraub)
CFO
Tel: +972 (3) 797-1111
Email: hilai@ellomay.com

The MIL Network –
July 7, 2025
MIL-OSI: Ellomay and Statkraft Sign Long-Term Power Purchase Agreements for Three Operating Italian Solar Plants
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Tel-Aviv, Israel / Milan, Italy, July 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Ellomay Capital Ltd. (NYSE American; TASE: ELLO) (“Ellomay” or the “Company”), a renewable energy and power generator and developer of renewable energy and power projects in Europe, USA and Israel, announced today that three Italian project companies in which the Company indirectly holds a 51% interest signed long-term (9-year) power purchase agreements (“PPAs”) with Statkraft, Europe’s largest generator of renewable energy. The PPAs cover 75% of the capacity (at P50) of three operating solar plants in Italy’s central-southern zone (CSUD), with a combined capacity of approximately 38 MW.

Ran Fridrich, CEO and Board member of Ellomay, said: “This transaction reinforces Ellomay’s strategy of enhancing the value and stability of its renewable platform across key European markets. The collaboration with Statkraft—one of Europe’s most respected and experienced offtakers—strengthens the foundation of this deal. Together with Ellomay’s disciplined development strategy and high-performing asset base, these PPAs set a benchmark for quality-driven growth in utility-scale renewables. Ellomay aims to structure similar agreements for other projects, including its remaining Italian solar portfolio that currently consists of 160 MW under construction processes (51% owned), 124 MW that received construction permits and additional 140 MW that are expected to receive permits in the near future.”

Maya Shaltiel, CEO of Maya International Strategic Alliances Ltd. (“MISA“), who led the negotiation and structuring of the transaction on behalf of Ellomay, said: “We are proud to have delivered bankable and resilient PPAs for Ellomay, in close collaboration with Statkraft. The PPAs support long-term stability for strong renewable assets in Italy and reflect a structure designed to thrive amid market complexity. In a period of high volatility and growing demand for green energy, we secured long-term certainty while preserving merchant upside — a structure that reflects strategic clarity and adaptability to evolving market conditions. We deeply appreciate Statkraft’s partnership and look forward to continuing to support energy transition efforts across Europe.”

Gennaro D’Annucci, Head of Origination Italy at Statkraft, said: “We are pleased to collaborate with Ellomay on this important transaction, which underscores Statkraft’s role as a leading force in the European PPA market. This agreement further strengthens our substantial renewable energy portfolio in Italy and enables us to offer innovative and competitive green supply solutions tailored to the needs of Italian corporates and industrials. It reflects our enduring commitment to driving the energy transition forward and delivering value through clean energy.”

About Ellomay Capital Ltd.

Ellomay is an Israeli based company whose shares are registered with the NYSE American and with the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange under the trading symbol “ELLO”. Since 2009, Ellomay focuses its business in the renewable energy and power sectors in Europe, USA and Israel.

To date, Ellomay has evaluated numerous opportunities and invested significant funds in the renewable, clean energy and natural resources industries in Israel, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands and Texas, USA, including:
- Approximately 335.9 MW of operating solar power plants in Spain (including a 300 MW solar plant in owned by Talasol, which is 51% owned by the Company) and 51% of approximately 38 MW of operating solar power plants in Italy;
- 9.375% indirect interest in Dorad Energy Ltd., which owns and operates one of Israel’s largest private power plants with production capacity of approximately 850 MW, representing about 6%-8% of Israel’s total current electricity consumption;
- Groen Gas Goor B.V., Groen Gas Oude-Tonge B.V. and Groen Gas Gelderland B.V., project companies operating anaerobic digestion plants in the Netherlands, with a green gas production capacity of approximately 3 million, 3.8 million and 9.5 million Nm3 per year, respectively;
- 83.333% of Ellomay Pumped Storage (2014) Ltd., which is involved in a project to construct a 156 MW pumped storage hydro power plant in the Manara Cliff, Israel;
- 51% of solar projects in Italy with an aggregate capacity of 160 MW that commenced construction processes;
- Solar projects in Italy with an aggregate capacity of 134 MW that have reached “ready to build” status; and
- Solar projects in the Dallas Metropolitan area, Texas, USA with an aggregate capacity of approximately 27 MW that are connected to the grid and an additional 22 MW that are awaiting connection to the grid.
For more information about Ellomay, visit http://www.ellomay.com.

About Statkraft

Statkraft – Europe’s largest renewable energy producer – is a company with 7,000 employees in over 20 countries that develops and manages hydropower, wind, solar and storage system assets, also offering PPA (Power Purchase Agreement) solutions for energy buying and selling. With a history and experience of 130 years, Statkraft operates in Italy since 2020, inspired by the group’s core values: We act responsibly, We grow together, We make an impact. Principles that have always guided us towards sustainable and socially responsible action. Indeed, the management of stakeholder relations is respectful of the highest standards of corporate compliance, thus ensuring an ethical approach to business and excellent feedback from the communities that welcome our green investments.

For more information about Statkraft, visit http://www.statkraft.com

About Maya International Strategic Alliances Ltd.

MISA specializes in structuring and negotiating strategic transactions in the energy and infrastructure space. With deep expertise in European and Asian energy markets, MISA supports sponsors and investors in delivering commercially sound, bankable solutions tailored to local and global dynamics.

Information Relating to Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements that involve substantial risks and uncertainties, including statements that are based on the current expectations and assumptions of the Company’s management. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, included in this press release regarding the Company’s plans and objectives, expectations and assumptions of management are forward-looking statements. The use of certain words, including the words “estimate,” “project,” “intend,” “expect,” “believe” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The Company may not actually achieve the plans, intentions or expectations disclosed in the forward-looking statements and you should not place undue reliance on the Company’s forward-looking statements. Various important factors could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those that may be expressed or implied by the Company’s forward-looking statements, including changes in electricity prices and demand, regulatory changes, increases in interest rates and inflation, changes in the supply and prices of resources required for the operation of the Company’s facilities (such as waste and natural gas) and in the price of oil, the impact of the war and hostilities in Israel and Gaza and between Israel and Iran, the impact of the continued military conflict between Russia and Ukraine, technical and other disruptions in the operations or construction of the power plants owned by the Company, inability to obtain the financing required for the development and construction of projects, inability to advance the expansion of Dorad, increases in interest rates and inflation, changes in exchange rates, delays in development, construction, or commencement of operation of the projects under development, failure to obtain permits – whether within the set time frame or at all, climate change, and general market, political and economic conditions in the countries in which the Company operates, including Israel, Spain, Italy and the United States. and general market, political and economic conditions in the countries in which the Company operates, including Israel, Spain, Italy and the United States. These and other risks and uncertainties associated with the Company’s business are described in greater detail in the filings the Company makes from time to time with Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 20-F. The forward-looking statements are made as of this date and the Company does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Contact:
Kalia Rubenbach (Weintraub)
CFO
Tel: +972 (3) 797-1111
Email: hilai@ellomay.com

The MIL Network –
July 7, 2025

MIL-OSI: Shell second quarter 2025 update note

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

The following is an update to the second quarter 2025 outlook and gives an overview of our current expectations for the second quarter. Outlooks presented may vary from the actual second quarter 2025 results and are subject to finalisation of those results, which are scheduled to be published on July 31, 2025. Unless otherwise indicated, all outlook statements exclude identified items.

See appendix for the definition of the non-GAAP measure used and the most comparable GAAP measure.

Integrated Gas

$ billions	Q1’25	Q2’25 Outlook	Comment
Adjusted EBITDA:
Production (kboe/d)	927	900 – 940
LNG liquefaction volumes (MT)	6.6	6.4 – 6.8
Underlying opex	1.0	1.0 – 1.2
Adjusted Earnings:
Pre-tax depreciation	1.4	1.4 – 1.8
Taxation charge	0.8	0.3 – 0.6
Other Considerations:
Trading & Optimisation is expected to be significantly lower than Q1’25.

Upstream

$ billions	Q1’25	Q2’25 Outlook	Comment
Adjusted EBITDA:
Production (kboe/d)	1,855	1,660 – 1,760	Reflects scheduled maintenance and the completed sale of SPDC in Nigeria.
Underlying opex	2.2	1.9 – 2.5
Adjusted Earnings:
Pre-tax depreciation	2.2	2.0 – 2.6
Taxation charge	2.6	1.6 – 2.4
Other Considerations:
The share of profit / (loss) of joint ventures and associates in Q2’25 is expected to be ~$0.2 billion. Q2’25 exploration well write-offs are expected to be ~$0.2 billion.

Marketing

$ billions	Q1’25	Q2’25 Outlook	Comment
Adjusted EBITDA:
Sales volumes (kb/d)	2,674	2,600 – 3,000
Underlying opex	2.4	2.3 – 2.7
Adjusted Earnings:
Pre-tax depreciation	0.6	0.5 – 0.7
Taxation charge	0.4	0.2 – 0.6
Other Considerations:
Marketing adjusted earnings are expected to be higher than Q1’25.

Chemicals and Products

$ billions	Q1’25	Q2’25 Outlook	Comment
Adjusted EBITDA:
Indicative refining margin*	$6.2/bbl	$8.9/bbl
Indicative chemicals margin*	$126/tonne	$166/tonne	The Chemicals sub-segment adjusted earnings are expected to be a loss.
Refinery utilisation	85%	92% – 96%
Chemicals utilisation	81%	68% – 72%	Chemicals utilisation impacted by unplanned maintenance at Monaca.
Underlying opex	2.0	1.7 – 2.1
Adjusted Earnings:
Pre-tax depreciation	0.9	0.8 – 1.0
Taxation charge / (credit)	0.1	(0.3) – 0.2
Other Considerations:
Trading & Optimisation is expected to be significantly lower than Q1’25. The Chemicals & Products segment adjusted earnings is expected to be below break-even in Q2’25.

*See appendix

Renewables and Energy Solutions

$ billions	Q1’25	Q2’25 Outlook	Comment
Adjusted Earnings	—	(0.4) – 0.2	Trading & Optimisation is expected to be lower than Q1’25.

Corporate

$ billions	Q1’25	Q2’25 Outlook	Comment
Adjusted Earnings	(0.5)	(0.6) – (0.4)

Shell Group

$ billions	Q1’25	Q2’25 Outlook	Comment
CFFO:
Tax paid	2.9	2.8 – 3.6
Derivative movements	—	(1) – 3
Working capital	(2.7)	(1) – 4
Other Shell Group Considerations:
–

Guidance

The ‘Quarterly Databook’ contains guidance on Indicative Refining Margin, Indicative Chemicals Margin and full-year price and margin sensitivities.

Consensus

The company compiled consensus, managed by Vara Research, is expected to be published on July 23, 2025.

Appendix

Indicative Margins

Chemicals & Products	Q1’25	Q2’25 Updated Outlook
Indicative refining margin	$6.2/bbl	$8.9/bbl
Indicative chemicals margin	$126/tonne	$166/tonne

The formulas for Indicative refining margin (IRM) and Indicative chemicals margin (ICM) have been updated following the completion of the Singapore divestment. Applying the previous formula for Q2’25 the IRM would have been: $7.5/bbl and the ICM $143/tonne.

Volume Data

Operational Metrics	Q1’25	Q2’25 QPR Outlook	Q2’25 Updated Outlook
Integrated Gas
Production (kboe/d)	927	890 – 950	900 – 940
LNG liquefaction volumes (MT)	6.6	6.3 – 6.9	6.4 – 6.8
Upstream
Production (kboe/d)	1,855	1,560 – 1,760	1,660 – 1,760
Marketing
Sales volumes (kb/d)	2,674	2,600 – 3,100	2,600 – 3,000
Chemicals & Products
Refinery utilisation	85%	87% – 95%	92% – 96%
Chemicals utilisation	81%	74% – 82%	68% – 72%

Underlying Opex

Underlying operating expenses is a measure aimed at facilitating a comparative understanding of performance from period to period by removing the effects of identified items, which, either individually or collectively, can cause volatility, in some cases driven by external factors. For further details see the 1st Quarter 2025 unaudited results.

$ billions	Q1’25	Q1’25 Adjusted	Q2’25 Updated Outlook
Production and manufacturing expenses	5.5
Selling, distribution and administrative expenses	2.8
Research and development	0.2
Operating Expenses (Opex)	8.6	8.6
Less: Identified Items		0.1
Underlying Opex		8.5
of which:
Integrated Gas	1.0	1.0	1.0 – 1.2
Upstream	2.2	2.2	1.9 – 2.5
Marketing	2.4	2.4	2.3 – 2.7
Chemicals and Products	2.1	2.0	1.7 – 2.1
Renewables and Energy Solutions	0.7	0.7

Depreciation, depletion and amortisation

$ billions	Q1’25	Q1’25 Adjusted	Q2’25 Updated Outlook
Depreciation, Depletion & Amortisation	5.4	5.4
Less: Identified Items		0.3
Pre-tax depreciation (as Adjusted)		5.1
of which:
Integrated Gas	1.4	1.4	1.4 – 1.8
Upstream	2.2	2.2	2.0 – 2.6
Marketing	0.5	0.6	0.5 – 0.7
Chemicals and Products	1.1	0.9	0.8 – 1.0
Renewables and Energy Solutions	0.1	0.1

Taxation Charge

$ billions	Q1’25	Q1’25 Adjusted	Q2’25 Updated Outlook
Taxation Charge	4.1	4.1
Less: Identified Items and Cost of supplies adjustment		0.3
Taxation Charge (as Adjusted)		3.8
of which:
Integrated Gas	0.8	0.8	0.3 – 0.6
Upstream	3.0	2.6	1.6 – 2.4
Marketing	0.4	0.4	0.2 – 0.6
Chemicals and Products	—	0.1	(0.3) – 0.2
Renewables and Energy Solutions	—	0.1

Adjusted Earnings

The “Adjusted Earnings” measure aims to facilitate a comparative understanding of Shell’s financial performance from period to period by removing the effects of oil price changes on inventory carrying amounts and removing the effects of identified items. These items are in some cases driven by external factors and may, either individually or collectively, hinder the comparative understanding of Shell’s financial results from period to period. This measure excludes earnings attributable to non-controlling interest. For further details see the 1st Quarter 2025 unaudited results.

$ billions	Q1’25	Q1’25 Adjusted	Q2’25 Updated Outlook
Income/(loss) attributable to Shell plc shareholders	4.8	4.8
Add: Current cost of supplies adjustment attributable to Shell plc shareholders		—
Less: Identified items attributable to Shell plc shareholders		(0.8)
Adjusted Earnings		5.6
of which:
Renewables and Energy Solutions	(0.2)	—	(0.4) – 0.2
Corporate	(0.5)	(0.5)	(0.6) – (0.4)

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Cautionary Note

The companies in which Shell plc directly and indirectly owns investments are separate legal entities. In this announcement “Shell”, “Shell Group” and “Group” are sometimes used for convenience to reference Shell plc and its subsidiaries in general. Likewise, the words “we”, “us” and “our” are also used to refer to Shell plc and its subsidiaries in general or to those who work for them. These terms are also used where no useful purpose is served by identifying the particular entity or entities. ‘‘Subsidiaries’’, “Shell subsidiaries” and “Shell companies” as used in this announcement refer to entities over which Shell plc either directly or indirectly has control. The terms “joint venture”, “joint operations”, “joint arrangements”, and “associates” may also be used to refer to a commercial arrangement in which Shell has a direct or indirect ownership interest with one or more parties. The term “Shell interest” is used for convenience to indicate the direct and/or indirect ownership interest held by Shell in an entity or unincorporated joint arrangement, after exclusion of all third-party interest.

The numbers presented in this announcement may not sum precisely to the totals provided and percentages may not precisely reflect the absolute figures due to rounding.

Forward-Looking statements
This announcement contains forward-looking statements (within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995) concerning the financial condition, results of operations and businesses of Shell. All statements other than statements of historical fact are, or may be deemed to be, forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements of future expectations that are based on management’s current expectations and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, performance or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied in these statements. Forward-looking statements include, among other things, statements concerning the potential exposure of Shell to market risks and statements expressing management’s expectations, beliefs, estimates, forecasts, projections and assumptions. These forward-looking statements are identified by their use of terms and phrases such as “aim”; “ambition”; ‘‘anticipate’’; “aspire”; “aspiration”; ‘‘believe’’; “commit”; “commitment”; ‘‘could’’; “desire”; ‘‘estimate’’; ‘‘expect’’; ‘‘goals’’; ‘‘intend’’; ‘‘may’’; “milestones”; ‘‘objectives’’; ‘‘outlook’’; ‘‘plan’’; ‘‘probably’’; ‘‘project’’; ‘‘risks’’; “schedule”; ‘‘seek’’; ‘‘should’’; ‘‘target’’; “vision”; ‘‘will’’; “would” and similar terms and phrases. There are a number of factors that could affect the future operations of Shell and could cause those results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements included in this announcement, including (without limitation): (a) price fluctuations in crude oil and natural gas; (b) changes in demand for Shell’s products; (c) currency fluctuations; (d) drilling and production results; (e) reserves estimates; (f) loss of market share and industry competition; (g) environmental and physical risks, including climate change; (h) risks associated with the identification of suitable potential acquisition properties and targets, and successful negotiation and completion of such transactions; (i) the risk of doing business in developing countries and countries subject to international sanctions; (j) legislative, judicial, fiscal and regulatory developments including tariffs and regulatory measures addressing climate change; (k) economic and financial market conditions in various countries and regions; (l) political risks, including the risks of expropriation and renegotiation of the terms of contracts with governmental entities, delays or advancements in the approval of projects and delays in the reimbursement for shared costs; (m) risks associated with the impact of pandemics, regional conflicts, such as the Russia-Ukraine war and the conflict in the Middle East, and a significant cyber security, data privacy or IT incident; (n) the pace of the energy transition; and (o) changes in trading conditions. No assurance is provided that future dividend payments will match or exceed previous dividend payments. All forward-looking statements contained in this announcement are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements contained or referred to in this section. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Additional risk factors that may affect future results are contained in Shell plc’s Form 20-F and amendment thereto for the year ended December 31, 2024 (available at www.shell.com/investors/news-and-filings/sec-filings.html and www.sec.gov). These risk factors also expressly qualify all forward-looking statements contained in this announcement and should be considered by the reader. Each forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date of this announcement, July 7, 2025. Neither Shell plc nor any of its subsidiaries undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement as a result of new information, future events or other information. In light of these risks, results could differ materially from those stated, implied or inferred from the forward-looking statements contained in this announcement.

Shell’s net carbon intensity
Also, in this announcement we may refer to Shell’s “net carbon intensity” (NCI), which includes Shell’s carbon emissions from the production of our energy products, our suppliers’ carbon emissions in supplying energy for that production and our customers’ carbon emissions associated with their use of the energy products we sell. Shell’s NCI also includes the emissions associated with the production and use of energy products produced by others which Shell purchases for resale. Shell only controls its own emissions. The use of the terms Shell’s “net carbon intensity” or NCI is for convenience only and not intended to suggest these emissions are those of Shell plc or its subsidiaries.

Shell’s net-zero emissions target
Shell’s operating plan and outlook are forecasted for a three-year period and ten-year period, respectively, and are updated every year. They reflect the current economic environment and what we can reasonably expect to see over the next three and ten years. Accordingly, the outlook reflects our Scope 1, Scope 2 and NCI targets over the next ten years. However, Shell’s operating plan and outlook cannot reflect our 2050 net-zero emissions target, as this target is outside our planning period. Such future operating plans and outlooks could include changes to our portfolio, efficiency improvements and the use of carbon capture and storage and carbon credits. In the future, as society moves towards net-zero emissions, we expect Shell’s operating plans and outlooks to reflect this movement. However, if society is not net zero in 2050, as of today, there would be significant risk that Shell may not meet this target.

Forward-Looking Non-GAAP measures

This announcement may contain certain forward-looking non-GAAP measures such as Adjusted Earnings, Adjusted EBITDA, Cash flow from operating activities excluding working capital movements, Cash capital expenditure, Net debt and Underlying operating expense.

Adjusted Earnings and Adjusted EBITDA are measures used to evaluate Shell’s performance in the period and over time.
The “Adjusted Earnings” and Adjusted EBITDA are measures which aim to facilitate a comparative understanding of Shell’s financial performance from period to period by removing the effects of oil price changes on inventory carrying amounts and removing the effects of identified items.
Adjusted Earnings is defined as income/(loss) attributable to shareholders adjusted for the current cost of supplies and excluding identified items. “Adjusted EBITDA (CCS basis)” is defined as “Income/(loss) for the period” adjusted for current cost of supplies; identified items; tax charge/(credit); depreciation, amortisation and depletion; exploration well write-offs and net interest expense. All items include the non-controlling interest component.
Cash flow from operating activities excluding working capital movements is a measure used by Shell to analyse its operating cash generation over time excluding the timing effects of changes in inventories and operating receivables and payables from period to period. Working capital movements are defined as the sum of the following items in the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows: (i) (increase)/decrease in inventories, (ii) (increase)/decrease in current receivables, and (iii) increase/(decrease) in current payables. Cash capital expenditure is the sum of the following lines from the Consolidated Statement of Cash flows: Capital expenditure, Investments in joint ventures and associates and Investments in equity securities. Net debt is defined as the sum of current and non-current debt, less cash and cash equivalents, adjusted for the fair value of derivative financial instruments used to hedge foreign exchange and interest rate risks relating to debt, and associated collateral balances. Underlying operating expenses is a measure of Shell’s cost management performance and aimed at facilitating a comparative understanding of performance from period to period by removing the effects of identified items, which, either individually or collectively, can cause volatility, in some cases driven by external factors. Underlying operating expenses comprises the following items from the Consolidated statement of Income: production and manufacturing expenses; selling, distribution and administrative expenses; and research and development expenses and removes the effects of identified items such as redundancy and restructuring charges or reversals, provisions or reversals and others.

We are unable to provide a reconciliation of these forward-looking non-GAAP measures to the most comparable GAAP financial measures because certain information needed to reconcile those non-GAAP measures to the most comparable GAAP financial measures is dependent on future events some of which are outside the control of Shell, such as oil and gas prices, interest rates and exchange rates. Moreover, estimating such GAAP measures with the required precision necessary to provide a meaningful reconciliation is extremely difficult and could not be accomplished without unreasonable effort. Non-GAAP measures in respect of future periods which cannot be reconciled to the most comparable GAAP financial measure are calculated in a manner which is consistent with the accounting policies applied in Shell plc’s consolidated financial statements.
The contents of websites referred to in this announcement do not form part of this announcement.

We may have used certain terms, such as resources, in this announcement that the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) strictly prohibits us from including in our filings with the SEC. Investors are urged to consider closely the disclosure in our Form 20-F, File No 1-32575, available on the SEC website www.sec.gov.

LEI number of Shell plc: 21380068P1DRHMJ8KU70

The MIL Network –

July 7, 2025

MIL-OSI: Mastercard collaborates with Eastern Bank PLC and IDEX Biometrics to launch its global first biometric metal credit card in Bangladesh
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

The new card combines cutting-edge biometric authentication with the sophistication of a metal design, offering both enhanced security and premium user experience for cardholders.

Dhaka, Bangladesh, 7^th July 2025: Mastercard has collaborated with Eastern Bank PLC to introduce its first biometric metal credit card, marking a significant leap forward in Bangladesh’s payment technology landscape. As part of the ultra-premium World Elite Mastercard portfolio, this innovative card combines cutting-edge biometric authentication with the sophistication of a metal design, offering both enhanced security and premium user experience. Co-powered by IDEX Biometrics, Kona I, and Infineon Technologies, the launch reflects a shared commitment to driving secure, seamless, and future-ready payment experiences in the country.

The new card will empower Mastercard cardholders to authenticate in-store purchases effortlessly using just their fingerprint—eliminating the need for PINs or signatures. Leveraging advanced biometric technology, it’ll ensure that only the authorized user can complete the transaction, safeguarding sensitive financial data and setting a new benchmark for secure, premium payment experiences.

With cardholder data securely stored directly on the card, transactions will be authenticated through the user’s fingerprint—adding a powerful layer of protection against fraud. One of the most user-friendly features of the new card will be its seamless enrollment process—cardholders can conveniently register their fingerprint from the comfort of home using a kit provided by the bank.

Enhancing its security credentials further, the card will be equipped with Mastercard Identity Theft Protection, a robust feature that continuously scans the web for signs of identity fraud, offering cardholders proactive and comprehensive protection.

Ali Reza Iftekhar, Managing Director & CEO, Eastern Bank PLC, said, “Eastern Bank PLC is pioneering the payment landscape in Bangladesh, confirming its leadership and innovation positioning. This IDEX Biometrics solution will provide a first-class payment experience and a new payment standard, powering secure contactless transactions in the country.”

Syed Mohammad Kamal, Country Manager, Bangladesh, Mastercard, said, “Mastercard is delighted to collaborate with Eastern Bank PLC to launch its first biometric metal card in Bangladesh. This groundbreaking innovation reaffirms Mastercard’s leadership in redefining the future of payments—where cutting-edge security meets seamless convenience. By embedding fingerprint authentication into a sleek metal card, Mastercard has set a new benchmark for premium cardholders who demand both sophistication and safety. Beyond its advanced technology, the World Elite Mastercard credit card will unlock a host of exclusive privileges, delivering an elevated experience that reflects the evolving expectations of today’s discerning consumers.”

Anders Storbraten, CEO, IDEX Biometrics, said, “We are excited that the IDEX Biometrics technology is part of this major milestone for the industry. This is a big win for customers, who can benefit from secure, seamless and highly innovative payment solutions. The biometric metal card from EBL brings it all together.”

Tolgahan Yildiz, Head of Trusted Mobile Connectivity and Transactions Product Line, Infineon Technologies, said, “With our ongoing commitment to the smart card market and investment in innovation, we’re proud to enable the launch of this biometric metal card solution.”

This exclusive World Elite Mastercard credit card will also unlock a host of premium privileges through Mastercard’s Priceless Specials platform, such as:
- A complimentary one-night stay at luxury hotels
- A free gourmet meal at top restaurants across Asia Pacific
- Exclusive rooftop dining at CÉ LA VI, Marina Bay Sands, Singapore, plus a SG$100 voucher
- Access to over 46 premium golf clubs, including TPC® courses operated by the PGA TOUR
The new card will also enable additional perks for cardholders, including:
- Global data roaming with Flexiroam
- Discounted car rentals from Hertz
- USD 1,000 off Uniworld river cruises
- Fast-track elite memberships with hotel loyalty programs like GHA DISCOVERY, HoteLux, Wyndham Rewards, and I Prefer
Further, cardholders will gain access to exclusive and specially curated experiences through Mastercard’s globally renowned Priceless platform. They will also be able to enjoy complimentary access to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide through Mastercard’s LoungeKey program, along with access to select domestic lounges—ensuring comfort and convenience wherever they travel.

To elevate the experience even further, a 24/7 concierge service will be available to cardholders, ensuring seamless assistance and effortless access to the finest experiences around the globe—from last-minute reservations to curated travel recommendations.

Enclosed: Photos of the card, the launch advertisement and the representatives of the companies collaborating to create and launch the card.

About IDEX Biometrics

IDEX Biometrics ASA (OSE: IDEX) is a global technology leader in fingerprint biometrics, offering authentication solutions across payments, access control, and digital identity. Our solutions bring convenience, security, peace of mind and seamless user experiences to the world. Built on patented and proprietary sensor technologies, integrated circuit designs, and software, our biometric solutions target card-based applications for payments and digital authentication. As an industry-enabler we partner with leading card manufacturers and technology companies to bring our solutions to market.

For more information, please visit www.idexbiometrics.com or contact ir@idexbiometrics.com

About Mastercard

Mastercard powers economies and empowers people in 200+ countries and territories worldwide. Together with our customers, we’re building a resilient economy where everyone can prosper. We support a wide range of digital payments choices, making transactions secure, simple, smart and accessible. Our technology and innovation, partnerships and networks combine to deliver a unique set of products and services that help people, businesses and governments realize their greatest potential.

For more information, please visit www.mastercard.com

About Eastern Bank PLC

A game changer in Bangladesh’s fast growing financial sector, the success of EASTERN BANK PLC comes from its continuous effort to innovate products and services, its commitment to offer service excellence and passion for performance. With a sound asset quality, strong liquidity, adequate capital coverage and good corporate governance, EASTERN BANK PLC is a symbol of stability in Bangladesh Financial Market. EASTERN BANK PLC has been known for its consistent and sustainable growth over the past 30 years and is being acclaimed for its customer-focus approach. EASTERN BANK PLC is committed to remain a strong partner in accelerating Bangladesh’s journey to a trillion-dollar economy by 2040.

For more information, please visit www.Eastern Bank PLC.com.bd

About Infineon

Infineon Technologies AG is a global semiconductor leader in power systems and IoT. Infineon drives decarbonization and digitalization with its products and solutions. The Company had around 58,060 employees worldwide (end of September 2024) and generated revenue of about €15 billion in the 2024 fiscal year (ending 30 September). Infineon is listed on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange (ticker symbol: IFX) and in the USA on the OTCQX International over-the-counter market (ticker symbol: IFNNY).

For more information, please visit www.infineon.com

Trademark Statement
IDEX, IDEX Biometrics and the IDEX logo are trademarks owned by IDEX Biometrics ASA. All other brands or product names are the property of their respective holders.

About this notice
This notice was issued by Erling Svela, Vice president of finance, on 7 July 2025 at 08:00 CET on behalf of IDEX Biometrics ASA.

Attachments

The MIL Network –
July 7, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Full Text: Remarks by Chinese Premier Li Qiang at the session on peace and security and global governance reform of the XVII BRICS Summit

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

Full Text: Remarks by Chinese Premier Li Qiang at the session on peace and security and global governance reform of the XVII BRICS Summit

RIO DE JANEIRO, July 6 — Chinese Premier Li Qiang delivered a speech on Sunday at the plenary session of “Peace and Security and Reform of Global Governance” of the 17th BRICS Summit.

The following is the full text of the speech:

Remarks by H.E. Li Qiang

Premier of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China

At the Session on Peace and Security and Global Governance Reform Of the XVII BRICS Summit

Rio de Janeiro, July 6, 2025

Your Excellency President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva,

Colleagues,

First of all, congratulations on the successful opening of this summit. I thank President Lula and the government of Brazil for the work they have done in hosting this summit, and I welcome Indonesia as a full BRICS member.

Today, transformations unseen in a century are accelerating in the world. Geopolitical conflicts and economic and trade frictions keep emerging, flames of war continue to rage in some regions, international rules and order face serious challenges, and the authority and efficacy of multilateral mechanisms are weakening. All parties have come to see the growing necessity and urgency to reform the global governance system. And all are participating in and promoting the reform of global governance through various means, either on their own initiative or otherwise. China believes that in this process, one must firmly safeguard the shared interests of the international community and always stand on the right side of history. This is the only way to avoid taking a wrong turn or backpedaling, and to march forward in big strides toward peace, security, prosperity and sustainable development.

In 2015, President Xi Jinping put forward the global governance vision of extensive consultation and joint contribution for shared benefit, offering China’s solution to the global governance challenge. Ten years on, this important vision has gained growing global influence. Given the interwoven changes and turbulence in the current international landscape, this global governance vision of extensive consultation and joint contribution for shared benefit holds even greater value and relevance, here and now. In the face of heightened differences and disagreements, we need the spirit of equality and respect to enable more extensive consultation. The conflicts and disputes happening across the globe have their roots in the lack of trust and communication. Power politics and bullying are never the right way to solve problems. The security and development of all countries should be respected. There should be less arrogance and prejudice, and more sincerity and understanding. We need to look for the best answer that serves the interests of all through friendly consultation conducted on the basis of equality. In the face of deeply intertwined and shared interests, we need united and collaborative actions to enhance our joint contribution. Humanity lives in the same global village, and countries have increasingly become one community with a shared future. Whether it is tackling global challenges or promoting long-term development, no country can do it alone. Only by standing together in solidarity and working in close collaboration can we build a better home for us all. In the face of development opportunities where cooperation brings win-win results, we need wholehearted embrace of other’s success as our own to expand shared benefits. Development should not be a zero-sum game where one profits at the expense of the other, but a win-win story where all can benefit through mutual assistance. Countries’ development ought to be opportunities, not threats, to each other. When everyone is willing to share opportunities with others, there will be more opportunities and benefits to share.

Over the years, Global South countries have grown stronger and become champions of and contributors to the reform and improvement of the global governance system. Standing at the forefront of the Global South, we BRICS countries should uphold independence, act with a sense of responsibility, take bigger steps to build consensus and synergy, and strive to be the pioneering force in advancing global governance reform.

First, we should uphold justice and safeguard world peace and tranquility. Achieving fairness and justice is a persistent pursuit of BRICS countries and an important theme of BRICS cooperation. When international rules are being undermined and bullying practices are on the rise, we need to stand up for what is right and speak up for justice. We need to act as a positive and stable force for good in the world, promote dispute settlement by peaceful means, and seek solutions that address the root causes based on the true merits of issues.

Second, we should focus on development and bolster the driving forces of economic growth. China’s journey of reform and opening up shows that in solving all problems, development is the foundation and key. It is true to big developing countries like China. It is also true to other countries of the Global South and beyond. With notable advantages in market, resources, industries and other factors, BRICS countries should play an active part in spearheading development cooperation, unlock the growth potential in emerging areas, and continue to explore new space for mutually beneficial cooperation. This year, China will establish the China-BRICS New Quality Productive Forces Research Center and the BRICS New Industry Golden Egret Excellence Scholarships, which will help BRICS countries train talents in areas such as industry and telecommunication, and pursue innovation-driven development.

Third, we should uphold inclusiveness and promote exchange and mutual learning among civilizations. Dialogue between civilizations can build bridges for peace and friendship and inspire wisdom for common development. With rich histories and cultures, BRICS countries should be advocates of harmonious coexistence of civilizations. We need to call for respect for cultural diversity in the world, and work to ensure that different civilizations inspire each other and prosper together.

China is ready to work with fellow BRICS members to make global governance more just, equitable, efficient and well-ordered, and build a better world together.

Thank you.

MIL OSI China News –

July 7, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: A test of political courage: Yoorrook’s final reports demand action, not amnesia
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jeremie M Bracka, Law Lecturer and Transitional Justice Academic, RMIT University

Australia’s colonial era may be formally over but its legacies of inequality, land dispossession and systemic racism continue to shape daily life for First Peoples.

Last week, the Victorian Yoorrook Justice Commission delivered its two final reports to the Victorian governor, concluding the most ambitious effort yet to reckon with these injustices.

The reports, Yoorrook for Transformation and Yoorrook Truth Be Told, contain 100 detailed recommendations across five volumes. They deliver a devastating account of dispossession, family separation, cultural erasure and structural racism, past and present.

Their scope is historic. But the question remains: will they change anything?

A bold innovation in truth-telling

Yoorrook is not just another inquiry.

Established in 2021, it is Australia’s first formal truth commission and the only one globally to be established alongside a Treaty process in a settler-colonial democracy.

It was designed by the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria and has been led and shaped by Aboriginal communities.

Its mandate is wide: to investigate both historical and ongoing injustices across all areas of life from land, law, health and education to housing, finance and child protection.

Over the past four years, Yoorrook has compelled testimony from ministers and senior bureaucrats, visited prisons and out-of-home care facilities, and travelled across the state to conduct on-country truth-telling with Elders.

In the words of one witness, Aunty Stephanie Charles:

Our Land, Our Language, Our
Lore and Our Lives have been denied
for far too long. In order to move
forward these must be recognised
an respected. This is Yoo-rrook.

Why truth commissions matter

Truth commissions emerged most famously in South Africa, where they were used to document atrocities during apartheid.

In recent years, however, they’ve also appeared in stable democracies grappling with colonial legacies: Canada’s commission on residential schools, Belgium’s commission on its African empire, and multiple United States commissions examining slavery, segregation and systemic racism.

In postcolonial states such as Australia, truth-telling is particularly powerful and necessary, because harm has not only been inflicted but denied.

As anthropologist W.E.H. Stanner put it in 1968, Australia has long maintained a “great Australian silence” – a wilful forgetting of how the nation was built on the dispossession of others.

Yoorrook challenges this silence. It has created an official record of Victoria’s colonial and ongoing harms, and opened a rare space for Indigenous people to define harm on their own terms, including what justice and healing should look like.

Structural injustice laid bare

The commission’s final reports lay out both stories and statistics. These include:
- in the past, Victoria explicitly authorised child removals on racial grounds and controlled every aspect of Aboriginal life under protectionist laws
- today, the state still removes Aboriginal children at more than 20 times the rate of non-Indigenous children
- Aboriginal people remain vastly over-represented in police custody, prison populations and cases of public housing exclusion.
Yoorrook is connecting these dots, showing how the injustices of colonisation did not end but evolved into contemporary legal and institutional forms.

Importantly, the commission has not shied away from naming these harms. It has condemned Victoria’s systemic racism – including alleged genocide – and called for radical change not just recognition.

Among its recommendations are calls to return land and water to Traditional Owners, to embed First Peoples’ control over education and child protection, and to establish reparations and shared governance structures across public institutions.

Will this lead to real change?

Yoorrook’s reports could be transformative if acted on – but this is far from guaranteed.

The Canadian experience is instructive. While its Truth and Reconciliation Commission garnered attention, many Canadians today are unfamiliar with its findings and progress on its recommendations has been slow.

In Australia, there’s a similar risk that Yoorrook may preach to the choir while political leaders move on. Despite a public apology in 2008, most recommendations of the 1991 Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody remain unfulfilled.

Since then, more than 500 additional Indigenous people have died in custody.

We must resist the cycle of “truth without justice.”

In recent hearings, Yoorrook commissioners pressed ministers to move beyond rhetoric. While several public apologies were made, including from Victoria’s attorney-general and the police minister, the commission rightly warned apologies without action are hollow.

Where to from here?

The failure of the Voice referendum in 2023 showed just how contested questions of history, race and recognition remain in Australia.

But it also underscored the need for renewed engagement with the truth, not just in parliaments but in homes, schools, workplaces and media.

Yoorrook’s challenge is not only to shape policy but to shift public consciousness. In this sense, it must speak to all Victorians.

Without broader buy-in, even the best-designed truth commission risks being forgotten.

A test of political courage

Yoorrook has done its part. It has listened to more than 1,500 voices. It has built the record. It has made the case for transformation.

Now, the Victorian government and indeed all of us must decide what to do with that truth. Will we confront it? Will we act on it? Or will we retreat once more into silence?

Yoorrook has narrowed the range of permissible lies in this country. But narrowing lies is not the same as achieving justice. That next step is ours to take.

Jeremie M Bracka was awarded the Malcolm Moore Industry Research Grant to support the implementation of the Final Reports of the Yoorrook Justice Commission.

– ref. A test of political courage: Yoorrook’s final reports demand action, not amnesia – https://theconversation.com/a-test-of-political-courage-yoorrooks-final-reports-demand-action-not-amnesia-260580
MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –
July 7, 2025

Category: Americas

UN Human Rights Council 59: UK Statement on Technical Cooperation in Colombia

Updates to this page

A bold innovation in truth-telling

Why truth commissions matter

Structural injustice laid bare

Will this lead to real change?

Where to from here?

A test of political courage