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Category: Asia Pacific

  • PM Modi, Argentina President discuss energy, critical minerals and pharma cooperation: MEA

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday discussed cooperation in the energy and critical minerals sectors with Argentine President Javier Milei, underlining India’s growing energy and industrial needs while emphasising that Buenos Aires can serve as a “reliable partner.”

    Addressing a briefing after the bilateral meeting between the two leaders, MEA Secretary (East) P. Kumaran emphasised that Argentina’s rich reserves of critical minerals — such as lithium, copper, and rare earth elements — align with India’s need for its clean energy transition and industrial growth.

    “The two leaders also had an opportunity to discuss cooperation in the energy and critical minerals sectors. The Prime Minister underlined India’s growing energy and industrial needs and emphasised that Argentina could serve as a reliable partner in supporting India’s developmental journey,” Kumaran said.

    “Argentina’s rich reserves of critical minerals, including lithium, copper, and rare earth elements, align with India’s need for secure and sustainable resources to drive its clean energy transition and industrial growth,” he added.

    Kumaran also highlighted that Argentina, with its second-largest shale gas and fourth-largest shale oil reserves, holds “strong potential to become an important energy partner for India.”

    During the bilateral meeting, PM Modi also highlighted India’s strength in the healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors, offering Argentina an opportunity to increase cooperation by moving India from Annexe II to Annexe I of Argentina’s pharmaceutical regulatory framework, which would facilitate smoother entry of Indian pharmaceutical products into the Argentine market.

    According to Argentina’s pharmaceutical regulatory framework, countries are divided into two annexes. Countries listed under Annexe I usually have a smoother path into the Argentine market.

    “The Prime Minister highlighted India’s strength in the healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors, particularly its capacity to produce high-quality, affordable medicines. He discussed the possibility of India being moved from Annexe II to Annexe I of Argentina’s pharmaceutical regulatory framework, which would facilitate smoother entry of Indian pharmaceutical products into the Argentine market. The Argentine side updated the Indian delegation on the fast-track approval process available for the import of Indian medicines,” Kumaran said.

    “The Indian side mentioned that this would significantly benefit the people of Argentina by improving access to affordable and life-saving medicine and reducing the cost of healthcare in Argentina,” he added.

    Argentina marks the third leg of PM Modi’s five-nation tour, which began with Ghana and Trinidad and Tobago and will next cover Brazil for the 17th BRICS Summit before concluding in Namibia.

    (ANI)

     

     

  • Wimbledon 2025: Sinner thrashes Martinez to reach fourth round

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    World No. 1 Jannik Sinner advanced to the fourth round of the men’s singles at Wimbledon for the fourth consecutive year by overcoming an injured Pedro Martinez 6-1, 6-3, 6-1 here on Saturday. Having dropped just 17 games in his campaign so far, the Italian has equalled the Open Era record for the fewest games lost while reaching the men’s singles fourth round at Wimbledon, a mark set by Jan Kodes in 1972.

    Sinner is yet to drop serve this week. He has won all 37 service games he has played, fending off all eight break points he has faced.

    On Saturday, Sinner led Martinez 5-0 in the first set before the Spaniard took a medical timeout to receive treatment on his right shoulder. Martinez struggled to serve at full capacity — often firing first serves at just 80 mph — while the Italian remained typically dominant from the back of the court.

    “I’m very happy to be in the second week, but I think we all saw he was struggling with the shoulder,” said Sinner after the match. “He couldn’t serve very well, and especially on this surface, if you can’t serve well, it’s not easy to play. But huge credit to him for coming out. From my side, I tried to stay solid from the back of the court.”

    Martinez grew in confidence in a free-hitting display in the second set, carving out four break points in the eighth game. Yet Sinner saved all of them with a mix of bruising ball striking and pinpoint serving to reassert his dominance before racing to a one-hour, 55-minute victory.

    By reaching the fourth round at a Grand Slam tournament for the 17th time, Sinner overtook Nicola Pietrangeli (16) to claim the all-time Italian record.

    Sinner will next face Grigor Dimitrov, who moved past Sebastian Ofner 6-3, 6-4, 7-6(0). The 23-year-old Sinner is chasing his fourth major title and first at Wimbledon, where he reached the semifinals in 2023 before falling to Novak Djokovic.

    –IANS

     

  • Wimbledon 2025: Sinner thrashes Martinez to reach fourth round

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    World No. 1 Jannik Sinner advanced to the fourth round of the men’s singles at Wimbledon for the fourth consecutive year by overcoming an injured Pedro Martinez 6-1, 6-3, 6-1 here on Saturday. Having dropped just 17 games in his campaign so far, the Italian has equalled the Open Era record for the fewest games lost while reaching the men’s singles fourth round at Wimbledon, a mark set by Jan Kodes in 1972.

    Sinner is yet to drop serve this week. He has won all 37 service games he has played, fending off all eight break points he has faced.

    On Saturday, Sinner led Martinez 5-0 in the first set before the Spaniard took a medical timeout to receive treatment on his right shoulder. Martinez struggled to serve at full capacity — often firing first serves at just 80 mph — while the Italian remained typically dominant from the back of the court.

    “I’m very happy to be in the second week, but I think we all saw he was struggling with the shoulder,” said Sinner after the match. “He couldn’t serve very well, and especially on this surface, if you can’t serve well, it’s not easy to play. But huge credit to him for coming out. From my side, I tried to stay solid from the back of the court.”

    Martinez grew in confidence in a free-hitting display in the second set, carving out four break points in the eighth game. Yet Sinner saved all of them with a mix of bruising ball striking and pinpoint serving to reassert his dominance before racing to a one-hour, 55-minute victory.

    By reaching the fourth round at a Grand Slam tournament for the 17th time, Sinner overtook Nicola Pietrangeli (16) to claim the all-time Italian record.

    Sinner will next face Grigor Dimitrov, who moved past Sebastian Ofner 6-3, 6-4, 7-6(0). The 23-year-old Sinner is chasing his fourth major title and first at Wimbledon, where he reached the semifinals in 2023 before falling to Novak Djokovic.

    –IANS

     

  • PM Modi, Argentina President discuss energy, critical minerals and pharma cooperation

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday discussed cooperation in the energy and critical minerals sectors with Argentine President Javier Milei, underlining India’s growing energy and industrial needs while emphasising that Buenos Aires can serve as a “reliable partner.”

    Addressing a briefing after the bilateral meeting between the two leaders, MEA Secretary (East) P. Kumaran emphasised that Argentina’s rich reserves of critical minerals — such as lithium, copper, and rare earth elements — align with India’s need for its clean energy transition and industrial growth.

    “The two leaders also had an opportunity to discuss cooperation in the energy and critical minerals sectors. The Prime Minister underlined India’s growing energy and industrial needs and emphasised that Argentina could serve as a reliable partner in supporting India’s developmental journey,” Kumaran said.

    “Argentina’s rich reserves of critical minerals, including lithium, copper, and rare earth elements, align with India’s need for secure and sustainable resources to drive its clean energy transition and industrial growth,” he added.

    Kumaran also highlighted that Argentina, with its second-largest shale gas and fourth-largest shale oil reserves, holds “strong potential to become an important energy partner for India.”

    During the bilateral meeting, PM Modi also highlighted India’s strength in the healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors, offering Argentina an opportunity to increase cooperation by moving India from Annexe II to Annexe I of Argentina’s pharmaceutical regulatory framework, which would facilitate smoother entry of Indian pharmaceutical products into the Argentine market.

    According to Argentina’s pharmaceutical regulatory framework, countries are divided into two annexes. Countries listed under Annexe I usually have a smoother path into the Argentine market.

    “The Prime Minister highlighted India’s strength in the healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors, particularly its capacity to produce high-quality, affordable medicines. He discussed the possibility of India being moved from Annexe II to Annexe I of Argentina’s pharmaceutical regulatory framework, which would facilitate smoother entry of Indian pharmaceutical products into the Argentine market. The Argentine side updated the Indian delegation on the fast-track approval process available for the import of Indian medicines,” Kumaran said.

    “The Indian side mentioned that this would significantly benefit the people of Argentina by improving access to affordable and life-saving medicine and reducing the cost of healthcare in Argentina,” he added.

    Argentina marks the third leg of PM Modi’s five-nation tour, which began with Ghana and Trinidad and Tobago and will next cover Brazil for the 17th BRICS Summit before concluding in Namibia.

    (ANI)

     

     

  • PM Modi begins historic Argentina visit, holds bilateral talks with President Javier Milei

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday began his historic visit to Argentina by paying respects at the statue of General Jose de San Martin, the country’s revered freedom fighter and national hero, in Buenos Aires.

    PM Modi laid a wreath and paid tribute at the San Martin Memorial, marking the first bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the South American nation in 57 years.

    General Jose de San Martin is recognised as the liberator of Argentina, and the monument was created in 1862 by French sculptor Louis Joseph Daumas. It was the first equestrian statue in Buenos Aires.

    San Martin led crucial phases of Argentina’s struggle for independence between 1813 and 1818 — defeating Spanish forces at the Battle of San Lorenzo, reorganising the Army of the North, becoming Governor of Cuyo, and creating the Army of the Andes, which he led across the mountains into Chile to liberate the neighbouring country from Spanish rule. He later moved north to help liberate Peru in 1820.

    Later, the PM was warmly received by Argentina’s President Javier Milei at the historic Casa Rosada as the two leaders began bilateral engagements.

    PM Modi arrived in Argentina early Saturday on the third leg of his five-nation tour, following visits to Ghana and Trinidad and Tobago earlier in the week. The tour will continue with visits to Brazil (July 5–8) and Namibia (July 9).

    The Prime Minister was accorded a ceremonial welcome ahead of delegation-level talks, followed by a lunch hosted by President Milei in his honour.

    Argentina has been a strategic partner of India since 2019, and the two countries celebrated 75 years of diplomatic relations last year.

    The visit comes at a particularly significant time, as Argentina is undertaking major economic reforms that mirror those India implemented in the past, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) noted ahead of the visit.

    Both leaders are expected to discuss economic and trade matters to further strengthen bilateral relations.

    “India’s advancements in defence manufacturing, the space sector, and new areas such as information technology and Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) can offer valuable expertise. We can share experiences with Argentina. Our expertise in telemedicine and digital healthcare solutions is also on offer to help Argentina expand access to medical services and improve overall quality and cost-effective healthcare delivery,” said MEA Secretary (East) P. Kumaran during a special media briefing ahead of the PM’s visit.

    The leaders are also expected to review ongoing cooperation and explore ways to enhance the India-Argentina partnership in key areas, including defence, agriculture, mining, oil and gas, renewable energy, trade and investment, and people-to-people ties.

    India and Argentina have made significant progress in bilateral cooperation in the mineral resources sector, particularly lithium — a key element in India’s green energy transition. An MoU on cooperation in mineral resources was signed in August 2022, and the first meeting of the Joint Working Group under the MoU was held in January 2025.

    “Argentina holds the world’s second-largest shale gas reserves and the fourth-largest shale oil reserves, along with substantial conventional oil and gas deposits, making it a potentially important energy partner for India. Its rich reserves of critical minerals such as lithium, copper, and rare earth elements complement India’s growing need for secure and sustainable supplies for clean energy and industrial growth. India’s public sector enterprise KABIL has already secured a few concessions in Argentina since 2024. Our leaders will discuss this further,” Kumaran added.

    Notably, India-Argentina bilateral trade more than doubled in three years — from 2019 to 2022 — peaking at USD 6.4 billion in 2022. In 2021 and 2022, India was Argentina’s fourth-largest trading partner. Argentina is a key supplier of edible oils — particularly soybean and sunflower oil — to India. In 2024, total annual bilateral trade rose by 33 percent to USD 5.23 billion, positioning India as Argentina’s fifth-largest trading partner and export destination.

    —IANS

  • 2nd Test: India eye series-levelling win as England slump to 72/3 in mammoth 608-run chase

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Akash Deep and Mohammed Siraj struck thrice with the new ball as India tightened their grip on the second Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy series at Edgbaston, leaving England at 72/3 at stumps on the fourth day on Saturday.

    England have been set a daunting target of 608 after India declared their second innings at 427/6, with skipper Shubman Gill leading from the front with a majestic 161, following his masterly 269 in the first innings. He was well supported by K.L. Rahul, Rishabh Pant, and Ravindra Jadeja, who hit half-centuries each.

    Continuing their new-ball onslaught from England’s first innings, Akash and Siraj again dismantled the top order. With Harry Brook and Ollie Pope unbeaten on 15 and 24 respectively, England still need 536 runs to win on Day Five, while India require seven wickets to secure what would be a memorable series-levelling victory — provided rain stays away.

    Ben Duckett began England’s chase positively, slicing and flicking Siraj for boundaries, but the bowler struck back by tempting Zak Crawley into a drive that flew straight to backward point, where substitute fielder B. Sai Sudharsan took a sharp catch to dismiss him for a seven-ball duck.

    After India burnt a review on Duckett for a caught-behind appeal, the opener hit a flurry of boundaries before inside-edging Akash onto his stumps for 25. Akash then produced a beauty to dismiss Joe Root for six, angling the ball from wide of the crease and nipping it past the bat to hit the top of off-stump. Pope and Brook managed to steady the innings slightly, hitting a couple of boundaries each before stumps brought an end to another dominant day for India.

    Earlier, Gill once again showcased his elegant strokeplay, hitting 13 fours and eight sixes for his eighth Test hundred — his fifth against England and his third in just four innings as India’s Test captain. With an aggregate of 430 runs, Gill is now the second-highest run-scorer in a single Test match after England’s Graham Gooch (456) and the first player ever to score both a double century and a 150-plus in the same Test.

    The final session began with Jadeja signalling a change in gears by smashing Shoaib Bashir for a straight six off the very first ball he faced. Gill continued his onslaught, hammering Chris Woakes for a six and two fours, before he and Jadeja took a boundary each off Bashir. Jadeja then cut Root for four through backward point to bring up his second half-century of the match off 94 balls.

    After Jadeja swept Root for four, Gill slog-swept the same bowler for back-to-back sixes, then cleared mid-off for another boundary. Gill reached 150 with a perfectly executed slog-sweep off Root before Pope lost sight of a top-edge, giving Gill yet another four.

    Gill then swung Bashir over midwicket for six, but his attempt at another maximum resulted in a mistimed shot back to the bowler, who completed the catch. Gill departed to a standing ovation for his superb 161. After Nitish Kumar Reddy holed out to long-off against Root, Washington Sundar struck the part-timer for a four and a six before Gill declared the innings, giving his bowlers another crack at a tiring England batting line-up. Akash and Siraj made full use of the new ball, once again out-bowling their English counterparts.

    Brief scores:
    India 587 & 427/6 decl. in 83 overs (Shubman Gill 161, Rishabh Pant 65, KL Rahul 55, Ravindra Jadeja 69*; Josh Tongue 2-93, Shoaib Bashir 2-119) lead England 407 & 72/3 in 16 overs (Ben Duckett 25, Harry Brook 24*; Akash Deep 2-36, Mohammed Siraj 1-29) by 536 runs.

    IANS

     

  • MIL-OSI USA: Loeffler Issues Statement on One Big Beautiful Bill Signing

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    WASHINGTON — Today, after President Donald J. Trump signed the One Big Beautiful Bill into law, Kelly Loeffler, Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), released the following statement:

    “The One Big Beautiful Bill is a landmark victory for America’s small businesses, and it cements President Trump’s legacy as the greatest small business champion our country has ever known,” said Loeffler. “These historic tax cuts lay the foundation for generational prosperity on Main Street – ushering in a new era of growth, hiring, investment, and opportunity for job creators. I applaud Congressional Republicans for their efforts to pass the One Big Beautiful Bill, and I thank President Trump for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to putting American workers and job creators first.”

    Administrator Loeffler has been one of the Trump Administration’s most outspoken proponents of the One Big Beautiful Bill. Last month, she embarked on a national tour to tout its benefits alongside America’s small business owners – traveling to Florida, Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana, Maine, and North Carolina.

    In addition to delivering the largest tax cut in history for middle and working-class Americans – increasing annual take-home pay by at least $10,000 for most families – the One Big Beautiful Bill includes revolutionary reforms to end entitlement abuse, secure the border, stop the Green New Scam, and slash wasteful spending. It also includes numerous provisions that will directly empower small businesses and workers, including:

    • Prevents the largest tax hike in history, making the 2017 Trump Tax Cuts permanent and increasing the standard deduction for every American family.
    • Makes the Small Business Tax Deduction Permanent, preserving the 199A 20% small business deduction, which will generate $750 billion in economic growth and create over 1 million new Main Street jobs. Without the One Big Beautiful Bill, 26 million small businesses would have seen their top tax rate double to 43%.
    • Supports the return of Made in America by allowing 100 percent expensing for new factories, factory improvements, equipment, and research and development.
    • Ends the war on the gig economy by removing the requirement that Venmo, PayPal, and other gig transactions over $600 be reported to the IRS.
    • Protects family farmers by preventing the death tax from hitting 2 million family-owned farms who would otherwise see their exemptions cut in half.
    • Cuts taxes on seniors, tips, and overtime, saving tipped and overtime workers up to $1,750 per year.
    • Protects Medicaid for working Americans, by ending benefits for at least 1.4 million illegal immigrants who are gaming the system.
    • Increases the child tax credit to $2,200 per family.

    # # #

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of entrepreneurship. As the leading voice for small businesses within the federal government, the SBA empowers job creators with the resources and support they need to start, grow, and expand their businesses or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • Centre urges public to use only BIS-certified helmets for two-wheeler safety

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Department of Consumer Affairs and the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) have urged two-wheeler riders across India to use only BIS-certified helmets, warning that substandard headgear poses a serious risk to road safety.

    With more than 21 crore two-wheelers plying on Indian roads, the government stressed that while wearing a helmet is mandatory under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, its quality is equally vital to prevent fatalities in accidents. Helmets certified under BIS standards (IS 4151:2015) are compulsory under a Quality Control Order enforced since 2021.

    However, according to the Department, a large number of helmets sold on roadsides and in informal markets still lack the mandatory ISI mark.

    “Sub-standard helmets compromise protection and defeat the purpose of wearing a helmet,” the Department said in a statement, adding that strict action is underway to tackle this threat to consumer safety.

    During the financial year 2024–25, BIS carried out over 30 search-and-seizure operations and tested more than 500 helmet samples. In one such operation in Delhi, over 2,500 non-compliant helmets were seized from nine manufacturers whose licences had expired or been cancelled. Similar operations at 17 retail and roadside locations led to the seizure of nearly 500 substandard helmets. Legal proceedings have been initiated against violators.

    Currently, 176 manufacturers across India hold valid BIS licences for protective helmets. To strengthen enforcement, the Department has written to District Collectors and Magistrates, urging them to launch special drives against illegal manufacture and sale of non-certified helmets. Local police and district administrations have been asked to integrate this initiative with existing road safety campaigns.

    BIS has also stepped up consumer outreach, partnering with local traffic authorities for roadshows and awareness drives. For example, the BIS Chennai team recently organised a campaign distributing ISI-marked helmets and educating riders on the importance of certified safety gear.

    Consumers can now check whether a helmet manufacturer is licensed on the BIS Care App or the BIS portal, which also allows users to lodge complaints against non-compliant sellers. In addition, BIS’s ‘Quality Connect’ campaign and its network of ‘Manak Mitra’ volunteers are engaging directly with the public to promote awareness about mandatory certification.

  • Centre urges public to use only BIS-certified helmets for two-wheeler safety

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Department of Consumer Affairs and the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) have urged two-wheeler riders across India to use only BIS-certified helmets, warning that substandard headgear poses a serious risk to road safety.

    With more than 21 crore two-wheelers plying on Indian roads, the government stressed that while wearing a helmet is mandatory under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, its quality is equally vital to prevent fatalities in accidents. Helmets certified under BIS standards (IS 4151:2015) are compulsory under a Quality Control Order enforced since 2021.

    However, according to the Department, a large number of helmets sold on roadsides and in informal markets still lack the mandatory ISI mark.

    “Sub-standard helmets compromise protection and defeat the purpose of wearing a helmet,” the Department said in a statement, adding that strict action is underway to tackle this threat to consumer safety.

    During the financial year 2024–25, BIS carried out over 30 search-and-seizure operations and tested more than 500 helmet samples. In one such operation in Delhi, over 2,500 non-compliant helmets were seized from nine manufacturers whose licences had expired or been cancelled. Similar operations at 17 retail and roadside locations led to the seizure of nearly 500 substandard helmets. Legal proceedings have been initiated against violators.

    Currently, 176 manufacturers across India hold valid BIS licences for protective helmets. To strengthen enforcement, the Department has written to District Collectors and Magistrates, urging them to launch special drives against illegal manufacture and sale of non-certified helmets. Local police and district administrations have been asked to integrate this initiative with existing road safety campaigns.

    BIS has also stepped up consumer outreach, partnering with local traffic authorities for roadshows and awareness drives. For example, the BIS Chennai team recently organised a campaign distributing ISI-marked helmets and educating riders on the importance of certified safety gear.

    Consumers can now check whether a helmet manufacturer is licensed on the BIS Care App or the BIS portal, which also allows users to lodge complaints against non-compliant sellers. In addition, BIS’s ‘Quality Connect’ campaign and its network of ‘Manak Mitra’ volunteers are engaging directly with the public to promote awareness about mandatory certification.

  • Centre urges public to use only BIS-certified helmets for two-wheeler safety

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Department of Consumer Affairs and the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) have urged two-wheeler riders across India to use only BIS-certified helmets, warning that substandard headgear poses a serious risk to road safety.

    With more than 21 crore two-wheelers plying on Indian roads, the government stressed that while wearing a helmet is mandatory under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, its quality is equally vital to prevent fatalities in accidents. Helmets certified under BIS standards (IS 4151:2015) are compulsory under a Quality Control Order enforced since 2021.

    However, according to the Department, a large number of helmets sold on roadsides and in informal markets still lack the mandatory ISI mark.

    “Sub-standard helmets compromise protection and defeat the purpose of wearing a helmet,” the Department said in a statement, adding that strict action is underway to tackle this threat to consumer safety.

    During the financial year 2024–25, BIS carried out over 30 search-and-seizure operations and tested more than 500 helmet samples. In one such operation in Delhi, over 2,500 non-compliant helmets were seized from nine manufacturers whose licences had expired or been cancelled. Similar operations at 17 retail and roadside locations led to the seizure of nearly 500 substandard helmets. Legal proceedings have been initiated against violators.

    Currently, 176 manufacturers across India hold valid BIS licences for protective helmets. To strengthen enforcement, the Department has written to District Collectors and Magistrates, urging them to launch special drives against illegal manufacture and sale of non-certified helmets. Local police and district administrations have been asked to integrate this initiative with existing road safety campaigns.

    BIS has also stepped up consumer outreach, partnering with local traffic authorities for roadshows and awareness drives. For example, the BIS Chennai team recently organised a campaign distributing ISI-marked helmets and educating riders on the importance of certified safety gear.

    Consumers can now check whether a helmet manufacturer is licensed on the BIS Care App or the BIS portal, which also allows users to lodge complaints against non-compliant sellers. In addition, BIS’s ‘Quality Connect’ campaign and its network of ‘Manak Mitra’ volunteers are engaging directly with the public to promote awareness about mandatory certification.

  • India breaches 1,000-run mark in Birmingham Test, joins elite club

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Team India etched its name in the record books on Saturday, piling up more than 1,000 runs in a single Test during the second match against England at Birmingham.

    It was runs and records galore for Team India as the visitors managed 587 all out and 427/6 declared across both innings, making it only thTe sixth instance of a team scoring over 1,000 runs combined in a Test.

    The highest remains England’s aggregate of 1,131 runs against the West Indies in 1930 at Kingston, scoring 849 and 272/9 declared in the third Test, which ended in a draw. The series also concluded in a 1-1 draw.

    Coming to the match, England once again opted to field first. After getting KL Rahul (2) early, an 80-run stand between Yashasvi Jaiswal (87 in 107 balls, with 13 fours) and Karun Nair (31 in 50 balls, with five fours) helped India gain some footing. Skipper Shubman Gill stitched valuable partnerships of 203 runs with Ravindra Jadeja (89 in 137 balls, with 10 fours and a six) and a 144-run stand with Washington Sundar (42 in 103 balls, with three fours and a six), powering India to 587, with Gill himself scoring 269 off 387 balls, including 30 fours and three sixes.

    Shoaib Bashir (3/167) was the pick of the bowlers for England, while Chris Woakes and Josh Tongue claimed two wickets each.

    In England’s first innings, India had them on the ropes at 84/5. However, a 303-run stand between Harry Brook (158 in 234 balls, with 17 fours and a six) and wicketkeeper-batter Jamie Smith (184* in 207 balls, with 21 fours and four sixes) made India toil hard in the field. Eventually, Siraj (6/70) and Akash Deep (4/88) made the new ball count and removed the last five wickets for just 20 runs, bowling England out for 407 and securing a 180-run lead.

    India’s response was a swift half-century partnership between Jaiswal (28 in 22 balls, with six fours) and KL Rahul, who continued his good run with a boundary-laden 55 off 84 balls. A 110-run stand for the fourth wicket between Rishabh Pant (65 in 58 balls, with eight fours and three sixes) and Gill upped the attack, while Gill stitched yet another epic 175-run stand with Jadeja, scoring 161 off 162 balls, with 13 fours and eight sixes. Jadeja finished unbeaten on 69* off 118 balls, with five fours and a six. India declared at 427/6, leading by 607 runs and setting England a mammoth target of 608 to win.

    Only once has India set a higher fourth-innings target in a Test — 616 against New Zealand in Wellington in 2009. Only once has England been asked to chase a higher target in a home Test — 707 by Australia in the timeless Test at The Oval in 1934.

    (ANI)

  • His entire life was dedicated to social justice: PM Modi pays tribute to Ram Vilas Paswan on his birth anniversary

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to former Union Minister Ram Vilas Paswan on his birth anniversary on Saturday, lauding his lifelong dedication to social justice.

    In a post on X, PM Modi said, “Humble tributes to former Union Minister Ram Vilas Paswan ji on his birth anniversary. His entire life was dedicated to social justice. His struggle for the rights of Dalits, backward classes, and the deprived can never be forgotten.”

    Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) chief Chirag Paswan, speaking to the media, described his father’s birth anniversary as a “festival” for the party.

    “Today is the birthday of my revered father, Shri Ram Vilas Paswan ji. This day is also a day of resolve for every leader and worker of the party to work towards social justice, make Bihar a developed state, and integrate the deprived sections of society into the mainstream, bringing his ideas to reality,” he said.

    He added that the LJP would commemorate the occasion in Hajipur, as done annually.

    In his X post, Chirag said, “Papa ji! Our family is always incomplete without you.”

    Ram Vilas Paswan, the founder and former LJP chief, was a nine-time Lok Sabha member and a two-time Rajya Sabha MP. He was also awarded the Padma Bhushan posthumously.

    Paswan passed away on October 8, 2020, due to a heart ailment. He was the Union Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution in the Narendra Modi government and also held ministerial positions in previous NDA governments. Paswan was first elected to the Lok Sabha in 1977 on a Janata Party ticket from Hajipur in Bihar.

    (ANI)

  • MIL-OSI Security: 8 Barbaric Criminal Illegal Aliens Finally Deported to South Sudan After Weeks of Delays by Activist Judges

    Source: US Department of Homeland Security

    These activist judges put the safety and health of our ICE law enforcement at risk in order to try and force ICE to bring these barbaric criminal illegal aliens back to America

    WASHINGTON – After weeks of delays by activist judges, the Department of Homeland Security finally deported eight barbaric, violent criminal illegal aliens to South Sudan. These delays kept ICE law enforcement stranded in Djibouti for weeks putting our law enforcement in danger. 

    “These sickos were finally deported to South Sudan on Independence Day,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “After weeks of delays by activist judges that put our law enforcement in danger, ICE deported these 8 barbaric criminal illegal aliens who are so heinous even their own countries will not accept them. This was a win for the rule of law, safety and security of the American people. We thank our brave ICE law enforcement for their sacrifice to defend our freedoms. We will continue to fight for the freedoms of Americans while these far-left activists continue to try and force us to bring murderers, pedophiles, and rapists back to the U.S.” 

    Below are the individuals ICE removed from American communities to South Sudan.  

    Enrique Arias-Hierro, a Cuban illegal alien, was arrested by ICE on May 2, 2025. His criminal history includes convictions for homicide, armed robbery, false impersonation of official, kidnapping, and robbery strong arm. 

    On April 30, 2025, ICE arrested Cuban illegal alien Jose Manuel Rodriguez-Quinones. He has been convicted of attempted first-degree murder with a weapon, battery and larceny, and cocaine possession and trafficking.

    Thongxay Nilakout, a citizen of Laos, was arrested by ICE on January 26, 2025. Nilakout has been convicted of first-degree murder and robbery; sentenced to life confinement. 

    On May 12, 2025, ICE arrested Mexican national, Jesus Munoz-Gutierrez. He has been convicted of second-degree murder; sentenced to life confinement.

    Dian Peter Domach, an illegal alien from South Sudan, was arrested by ICE on May 8, 2024. Domach has been convicted of robbery and possession of a firearm, possession of defaced firearm, possession of burglar’s tools, and driving under the influence.

    Kyaw Mya, an illegal alien from Burma, was arrested by ICE on February 18, 2025. Mya has been convicted of lascivious acts with a child-victim less than 12 years of age; sentenced to 10 years confinement, paroled after 4 years. 

    Nyo Myint, an illegal alien from Burma, was arrested by ICE on February 19, 2025. Myint has been convicted of first-degree sexual assault involving a victim mentally and physically incapable of resisting; sentenced to 12 years confinement. Myint has also charged with aggravated assault-nonfamily strongarm.

    On May 3, 2025, ICE arrested Tuan Thanh Phan, a Vietnamese illegal alien. Phan has been convicted of first-degree murder and second-degree assault; sentenced to 22 years confinement.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: 8 Barbaric Criminal Illegal Aliens Finally Deported to South Sudan After Weeks of Delays by Activist Judges

    Source: US Department of Homeland Security

    These activist judges put the safety and health of our ICE law enforcement at risk in order to try and force ICE to bring these barbaric criminal illegal aliens back to America

    WASHINGTON – After weeks of delays by activist judges, the Department of Homeland Security finally deported eight barbaric, violent criminal illegal aliens to South Sudan. These delays kept ICE law enforcement stranded in Djibouti for weeks putting our law enforcement in danger. 

    “These sickos were finally deported to South Sudan on Independence Day,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “After weeks of delays by activist judges that put our law enforcement in danger, ICE deported these 8 barbaric criminal illegal aliens who are so heinous even their own countries will not accept them. This was a win for the rule of law, safety and security of the American people. We thank our brave ICE law enforcement for their sacrifice to defend our freedoms. We will continue to fight for the freedoms of Americans while these far-left activists continue to try and force us to bring murderers, pedophiles, and rapists back to the U.S.” 

    Below are the individuals ICE removed from American communities to South Sudan.  

    Enrique Arias-Hierro, a Cuban illegal alien, was arrested by ICE on May 2, 2025. His criminal history includes convictions for homicide, armed robbery, false impersonation of official, kidnapping, and robbery strong arm. 

    On April 30, 2025, ICE arrested Cuban illegal alien Jose Manuel Rodriguez-Quinones. He has been convicted of attempted first-degree murder with a weapon, battery and larceny, and cocaine possession and trafficking.

    Thongxay Nilakout, a citizen of Laos, was arrested by ICE on January 26, 2025. Nilakout has been convicted of first-degree murder and robbery; sentenced to life confinement. 

    On May 12, 2025, ICE arrested Mexican national, Jesus Munoz-Gutierrez. He has been convicted of second-degree murder; sentenced to life confinement.

    Dian Peter Domach, an illegal alien from South Sudan, was arrested by ICE on May 8, 2024. Domach has been convicted of robbery and possession of a firearm, possession of defaced firearm, possession of burglar’s tools, and driving under the influence.

    Kyaw Mya, an illegal alien from Burma, was arrested by ICE on February 18, 2025. Mya has been convicted of lascivious acts with a child-victim less than 12 years of age; sentenced to 10 years confinement, paroled after 4 years. 

    Nyo Myint, an illegal alien from Burma, was arrested by ICE on February 19, 2025. Myint has been convicted of first-degree sexual assault involving a victim mentally and physically incapable of resisting; sentenced to 12 years confinement. Myint has also charged with aggravated assault-nonfamily strongarm.

    On May 3, 2025, ICE arrested Tuan Thanh Phan, a Vietnamese illegal alien. Phan has been convicted of first-degree murder and second-degree assault; sentenced to 22 years confinement.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • Neeraj Chopra reigns supreme at NC Classic 2025 with a throw of 86.18m

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Double Olympic medallist Neeraj Chopra, the poster boy of Indian athletics, continued his superb form as he won the inaugural edition of the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025, a World Athletics gold-level event, with a best throw of 86.18m at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium here on Saturday.

    Kenya’s Julius Yego finished second with a season-best throw of 84.51m, while Sri Lanka’s Rumesh Pathirage came third with a best effort of 84.34m.

    Chopra, who was welcomed by 14,593 people with thunderous roars and cheers, began with a foul but took the lead with his second attempt of 82.99m.

    The Indian megastar, who won gold at the Tokyo Olympic Games and followed it up with a silver medal in Paris in 2024, then registered the biggest throw of the night with his third attempt of 86.18m, thrilling the Bengaluru crowd. He followed it up with a foul in the fourth attempt and an 84.07m effort in the fifth, before rounding off the event with a throw of 82.22m.

    “Thank you, Bengaluru, for coming tonight. There was a headwind for us today, so the marks weren’t that big. But this was such a different experience for me — I had to do so many different things apart from competing. We will try to add more events. I am so happy tonight, my family is here too. I was a little nervous, not too happy with the result, but happy. Thank you so much,” Chopra said afterwards.

    Chopra began his season by winning the Potch Invitational Meet in Potchefstroom, South Africa, in April before finishing second at the Doha Diamond League, where he breached the elusive 90m mark with a 90.23m throw to reset the Indian national record.

    He then finished second again at the Janusz Kusociński Memorial in Poland and followed it up with a first-place finish at the Paris Diamond League meet last week. He also claimed the top spot with an 88.16m throw at the Ostrava Golden Spike 2025, along with another throw of 85.29m.

    — IANS

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SCST continues visit to Paris (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Miss Rosanna Law, continued her visit to Paris, France.

    On July 4 (Paris time), Miss Law met with the Deputy General Manager of the French National Centre of Cinema (CNC) Mr Olivier Henrard. The CNC oversees France’s policies related to cinema, audiovisual arts, digital creations, and video games. Mr Henrard highlighted the platforms provided by Hong Kong that have facilitated connections between film professionals from the two places. Miss Law underlined the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region’s commitment to supporting the creative industries and strengthening global partnerships in filmmaking, noting the significant potential for deeper collaboration between Hong Kong and France in this field.

    Miss Law also met with the Deputy Mayor of Paris Mr Arnaud Ngatcha to explore opportunities for enhancing cultural and tourism ties between Hong Kong and France. During their inspiring discussions, Miss Law expressed her gratitude for the collaborative efforts between museums in both regions. She also introduced the Hong Kong Wine and Dine Festival, a signature annual event organised by the Hong Kong Tourism Board, and shared her mission during her upcoming stop in Bordeaux to reconnect with the wine industry and community for potential collaborations. Mr Ngatcha expressed openness to strengthening partnerships in culture and tourism and shared insights on how to engage local communities in hosting large-scale events, drawing from Paris’s experience with the Olympic Games.

    Earlier that morning, Miss Law toured Notre-Dame de Paris, where she learnt about the cathedral’s ongoing restoration efforts and its significance as a global tourist attraction.

    Miss Law also met with the President of the Grand Palais, Mr Didier Fusillier, where discussions centred on the versatility of the Grand Palais as a venue for cultural, sports, and major events. Inspired by the Grand Palais innovative use of space for events and exhibitions, Miss Law remarked the potential for incorporating similar techniques in Hong Kong’s venues, particularly the new state-of-the-art Kai Tak Sports Park. She emphasised her vision of enhancing Hong Kong’s global profile through multi-disciplinary events of varying scales.

    On July 5 (Paris time), Miss Law visited two of Paris’s most renowned museums: the Musée National des Arts Asiatiques – Guimet and the Musée d’Orsay. She recognised the distinctive cultural and artistic importance of each institution. With the mission of reinforcing Hong Kong as a premier cultural hub, Miss Law gained some thoughts to explore opportunities for strengthening cultural exchanges between Hong Kong and France through exhibitions, partnerships, and knowledge sharing.

    Miss Law will continue her visit to France and head for Bordeaux on July 6 (Paris time).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • PM Modi begins historic Argentina visit by paying tribute to country’s liberator

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday began his historic visit to Argentina by paying respects at the statue of General Jose de San Martin, the country’s revered freedom fighter and national hero, in Buenos Aires.

    PM Modi laid a wreath and paid tribute at the San Martin Memorial, marking the first bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the South American nation in 57 years.

    General Jose de San Martin is recognised as the liberator of Argentina, and the monument was created in 1862 by French sculptor Louis Joseph Daumas. It was the first equestrian statue in Buenos Aires.

    San Martin led crucial phases of Argentina’s struggle for independence between 1813 and 1818 — defeating Spanish forces at the Battle of San Lorenzo, reorganising the Army of the North, becoming Governor of Cuyo, and creating the Army of the Andes, which he led across the mountains into Chile to liberate the neighbouring country from Spanish rule. He later moved north to help liberate Peru in 1820.

    Later, the PM was warmly received by Argentina’s President Javier Milei at the historic Casa Rosada as the two leaders began bilateral engagements.

    PM Modi arrived in Argentina early Saturday on the third leg of his five-nation tour, following visits to Ghana and Trinidad and Tobago earlier in the week. The tour will continue with visits to Brazil (July 5–8) and Namibia (July 9).

    The Prime Minister was accorded a ceremonial welcome ahead of delegation-level talks, followed by a lunch hosted by President Milei in his honour.

    Argentina has been a strategic partner of India since 2019, and the two countries celebrated 75 years of diplomatic relations last year.

    The visit comes at a particularly significant time, as Argentina is undertaking major economic reforms that mirror those India implemented in the past, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) noted ahead of the visit.

    Both leaders are expected to discuss economic and trade matters to further strengthen bilateral relations.

    “India’s advancements in defence manufacturing, the space sector, and new areas such as information technology and Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) can offer valuable expertise. We can share experiences with Argentina. Our expertise in telemedicine and digital healthcare solutions is also on offer to help Argentina expand access to medical services and improve overall quality and cost-effective healthcare delivery,” said MEA Secretary (East) P. Kumaran during a special media briefing ahead of the PM’s visit.

    The leaders are also expected to review ongoing cooperation and explore ways to enhance the India-Argentina partnership in key areas, including defence, agriculture, mining, oil and gas, renewable energy, trade and investment, and people-to-people ties.

    India and Argentina have made significant progress in bilateral cooperation in the mineral resources sector, particularly lithium — a key element in India’s green energy transition. An MoU on cooperation in mineral resources was signed in August 2022, and the first meeting of the Joint Working Group under the MoU was held in January 2025.

    “Argentina holds the world’s second-largest shale gas reserves and the fourth-largest shale oil reserves, along with substantial conventional oil and gas deposits, making it a potentially important energy partner for India. Its rich reserves of critical minerals such as lithium, copper, and rare earth elements complement India’s growing need for secure and sustainable supplies for clean energy and industrial growth. India’s public sector enterprise KABIL has already secured a few concessions in Argentina since 2024. Our leaders will discuss this further,” Kumaran added.

    Notably, India-Argentina bilateral trade more than doubled in three years — from 2019 to 2022 — peaking at USD 6.4 billion in 2022. In 2021 and 2022, India was Argentina’s fourth-largest trading partner. Argentina is a key supplier of edible oils — particularly soybean and sunflower oil — to India. In 2024, total annual bilateral trade rose by 33 percent to USD 5.23 billion, positioning India as Argentina’s fifth-largest trading partner and export destination.

    —IANS

  • PM Modi begins historic Argentina visit by paying tribute to country’s liberator

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday began his historic visit to Argentina by paying respects at the statue of General Jose de San Martin, the country’s revered freedom fighter and national hero, in Buenos Aires.

    PM Modi laid a wreath and paid tribute at the San Martin Memorial, marking the first bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the South American nation in 57 years.

    General Jose de San Martin is recognised as the liberator of Argentina, and the monument was created in 1862 by French sculptor Louis Joseph Daumas. It was the first equestrian statue in Buenos Aires.

    San Martin led crucial phases of Argentina’s struggle for independence between 1813 and 1818 — defeating Spanish forces at the Battle of San Lorenzo, reorganising the Army of the North, becoming Governor of Cuyo, and creating the Army of the Andes, which he led across the mountains into Chile to liberate the neighbouring country from Spanish rule. He later moved north to help liberate Peru in 1820.

    Later, the PM was warmly received by Argentina’s President Javier Milei at the historic Casa Rosada as the two leaders began bilateral engagements.

    PM Modi arrived in Argentina early Saturday on the third leg of his five-nation tour, following visits to Ghana and Trinidad and Tobago earlier in the week. The tour will continue with visits to Brazil (July 5–8) and Namibia (July 9).

    The Prime Minister was accorded a ceremonial welcome ahead of delegation-level talks, followed by a lunch hosted by President Milei in his honour.

    Argentina has been a strategic partner of India since 2019, and the two countries celebrated 75 years of diplomatic relations last year.

    The visit comes at a particularly significant time, as Argentina is undertaking major economic reforms that mirror those India implemented in the past, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) noted ahead of the visit.

    Both leaders are expected to discuss economic and trade matters to further strengthen bilateral relations.

    “India’s advancements in defence manufacturing, the space sector, and new areas such as information technology and Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) can offer valuable expertise. We can share experiences with Argentina. Our expertise in telemedicine and digital healthcare solutions is also on offer to help Argentina expand access to medical services and improve overall quality and cost-effective healthcare delivery,” said MEA Secretary (East) P. Kumaran during a special media briefing ahead of the PM’s visit.

    The leaders are also expected to review ongoing cooperation and explore ways to enhance the India-Argentina partnership in key areas, including defence, agriculture, mining, oil and gas, renewable energy, trade and investment, and people-to-people ties.

    India and Argentina have made significant progress in bilateral cooperation in the mineral resources sector, particularly lithium — a key element in India’s green energy transition. An MoU on cooperation in mineral resources was signed in August 2022, and the first meeting of the Joint Working Group under the MoU was held in January 2025.

    “Argentina holds the world’s second-largest shale gas reserves and the fourth-largest shale oil reserves, along with substantial conventional oil and gas deposits, making it a potentially important energy partner for India. Its rich reserves of critical minerals such as lithium, copper, and rare earth elements complement India’s growing need for secure and sustainable supplies for clean energy and industrial growth. India’s public sector enterprise KABIL has already secured a few concessions in Argentina since 2024. Our leaders will discuss this further,” Kumaran added.

    Notably, India-Argentina bilateral trade more than doubled in three years — from 2019 to 2022 — peaking at USD 6.4 billion in 2022. In 2021 and 2022, India was Argentina’s fourth-largest trading partner. Argentina is a key supplier of edible oils — particularly soybean and sunflower oil — to India. In 2024, total annual bilateral trade rose by 33 percent to USD 5.23 billion, positioning India as Argentina’s fifth-largest trading partner and export destination.

    —IANS

  • Massive turnout in Bihar’s Special Revision: 13% voter forms already collected: ECI

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar is progressing at a brisk pace, with officials working at the grassroots level to ensure that no eligible voter is left out of the updated rolls.

    According to the latest data shared by the Election Commission of India (ECI) on Saturday evening, more than 1.04 crore Enumeration Forms — about 13.19% of Bihar’s total 7.90 crore registered electors (as on June 24, 2025) — have already been collected. Booth Level Officers (BLOs) and other election officials have also distributed nearly 94% of the forms, with over 7.38 crore forms handed out so far.

    Over 77,000 BLOs are going door-to-door to assist voters in filling out the Enumeration Forms and collecting them. In many cases, BLOs are capturing live photographs of voters and uploading them instantly to reduce the burden on citizens to arrange photos themselves.

    To facilitate wider participation, partially filled forms can be downloaded from the ECI portal ([https://voters.eci.gov.in](https://voters.eci.gov.in)) or the ECINET App, and voters can also upload completed forms directly through the app.

    To strengthen the exercise, an additional 20,603 BLOs are being deployed to ensure the smooth and timely completion of the revision process. Nearly four lakh volunteers, including government officials, NCC cadets, NSS members, and others, are also assisting in the field to help senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PwDs), the sick, and other vulnerable groups submit their forms.

    At the administrative level, 239 Electoral Registration Officers (EROs), 963 Assistant Electoral Registration Officers (AEROs), 38 District Election Officers (DEOs), and the state’s Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) are overseeing the exercise on the ground.

    Political parties have also extended their cooperation, with 1,54,977 Booth Level Agents (BLAs) appointed by various parties actively supporting the door-to-door revision drive.

  • Trump says tariff letters to 12 countries signed, going out Monday

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    U.S. President Donald Trump said he had signed letters to 12 countries outlining the various tariff levels they would face on goods they export to the United States, with the “take it or leave it” offers to be sent out on Monday.

    Trump, speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One as he traveled to New Jersey, declined to name the countries involved, saying that would be made public on Monday.

    In a global trade war that has upended financial markets and set off a scramble among policymakers to guard their economies, Trump in April announced a 10% base tariff rate and additional amounts for most countries, some ranging as high as 50%.

    However, all but the 10% base rate were subsequently suspended for 90 days to allow more time for negotiations to secure deals.

    That period ends on July 9, although Trump early on Friday said the tariffs could be even higher – ranging up to 70% – with most set to go into effect August 1.

    “I signed some letters and they’ll go out on Monday, probably twelve,” Trump said, when asked about his plans on the tariff front. “Different amounts of money, different amounts of tariffs.”

    Trump and his top aides initially said they would launch negotiations with scores of countries on tariff rates, but the U.S. president has soured on that process after repeated setbacks with major trading partners, including Japan and the European Union.

    He touched on that briefly late on Friday, telling reporters: “The letters are better … much easier to send a letter.”

    He did not address his prediction that some broader trade agreements could be reached before the July 9 deadline.

    The shift in the White House’s strategy reflects the challenges of completing trade agreements on everything from tariffs to non-tariff barriers such as bans on agricultural imports, and especially on an accelerated timeline.

    Most past trade agreements have taken years of negotiations to complete.

    The only trade agreements reached to date are with Britain, which reached a deal in May to keep a 10% rate and won preferential treatment for some sectors including autos and aircraft engines, and with Vietnam, cutting tariffs on many Vietnamese goods to 20% from his previously threatened 46%. Many U.S. products would be allowed to enter Vietnam duty free.

    A deal expected with India has failed to materialize, and EU diplomats on Friday said they have failed to achieve a breakthrough in trade negotiations with the Trump administration, and may now seek to extend the status quo to avoid tariff hikes.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HKETO Jakarta celebrates in Philippines 28th anniversary of HKSAR establishment (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    ​The Director-General of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Jakarta, Miss Libera Cheng, today (July 5) attended a dinner organised by the Hongkong Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines Inc in Manila, the Philippines, to celebrate the 28th anniversary of the establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.

    Addressing the dinner, Miss Cheng said that with the staunch support of the motherland and the advantages in connecting the Mainland and the world under the “one country, two systems” principle, Hong Kong has continued to consolidate its status as an international financial, shipping and trade centre. Hong Kong has performed remarkably in international rankings. It was named the world’s freest economy in the Economic Freedom of the World 2024 Annual Report, and ranked third globally in the World Competitiveness Yearbook 2025, the World Investment Report 2025 and the Global Financial Centres Index. Hong Kong’s success in attracting top-tier international companies and talent is also widely acknowledged. The number of companies in Hong Kong with overseas or Mainland parent companies has risen to 9 960, while the number of start-ups in the city increased to around 4 700, both reaching record highs.

    Miss Cheng added that Hong Kong has a close relationship with the Philippines. Hong Kong is the Philippines’ fifth largest trading partner, with bilateral trade in goods amounting to US$13.9 billion last year. In tourism, Hong Kong has continued to attract Filipino visitors, welcoming around 1.2 million arrivals from the Philippines last year, representing a 55 per cent increase compared with 2023. In the first five months of this year alone, more than 550 000 Filipino visitors travelled to Hong Kong, marking a 27 per cent year-on-year increase and reflecting strong people-to-people ties between the two places.

    Miss Cheng also shared the latest developments in Hong Kong with the guests, highlighting the emerging opportunities under the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area as strategic responses to future challenges. She said that as a global financial and trade centre, Hong Kong is well positioned to serve as a vital bridge connecting Mainland China and the Philippines. She thanked the chamber for fostering connections, and hoped that more outstanding Philippine enterprises would expand their business networks in Hong Kong to create synergy. On the other hand, Hong Kong has been actively seeking early accession to the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, with a view to making greater contributions to regional development.

    Around 250 representatives from the local government and business sectors, including the Minister Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines, Ms Wang Yulei, and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council’s Consultant in Manila, Ms Maribeth Barros, attended the event.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: International health tourism booming on China’s Hainan Island

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    HAIKOU, July 5 (Xinhua) — Located in the coastal town of Boao in south China’s Hainan Province, the Boao Lecheng International Health Tourism Pilot Zone is fast becoming a leading healthcare and innovation hub in China, attracting increasing attention from around the world.

    The pilot zone, which is considered the only special medical service zone in China, hosts more than 30 leading domestic and foreign medical institutions. With special policy support, the pilot zone has introduced 485 advanced drugs and medical devices that have been approved abroad but have not yet entered the domestic market, benefiting more than 130,000 patients.

    Canadian figure skating coach Mark Batka, suffering from growing tumors on his chest and back that were hampering his ability to work, decided to have surgery during a four-day recuperation trip to the pilot zone.

    “In Canada it’s more expensive and it takes time to get an appointment for the surgery. And since I was here, I decided to give it a try and I was very happy, I think it went very well,” he said.

    Mark Batka is just one of many foreign visitors who have taken advantage of the medical services at the pilot zone, which offers a world-class package of services, from premium medical check-ups and a combination of traditional Chinese and Western treatments to cultural experiences such as incense tasting, tea ceremonies and calligraphy.

    Boao Yiling Life Support Center, a leading provider of comprehensive medical services in the pilot zone, provides a wide range of services such as health care, disease prevention, specific therapies, rehabilitation and mental health.

    Janet Wong, who went on a Canadian wellness tour with Mark Batka, said she was impressed by the high-quality medical check-up she received at the centre.

    “We were so surprised from the very beginning when we arrived,” she said, adding that the treatment was excellent and the medical examination incredibly thorough.

    “In a way, it really does feel like a vacation,” said Stephanie Wing See Yau, another member of the Canadian group, calling the centre a truly world-class facility.

    “It’s really impressive how they’ve put all these treatments together in one place,” she said, noting that she was glad to see that there was a focus on overall wellness, not just physical wellness but mental wellness as well. She described her trip as a great experience and said she would definitely recommend it to friends.

    As part of the pilot zone’s efforts to develop health tourism, 25 specialized routes have been launched, tailored to different needs, from traditional Chinese medicine and chronic disease treatment to high-end medical check-ups and medical cosmetology. These routes are increasingly popular around the world. The pilot zone has also become a key platform supporting Hainan’s efforts to become a hub for international tourism and consumption.

    By the end of 2024, more than 410,000 people had taken medical tours in the pilot zone, which is 36.76 percent more than in the previous year. Since the beginning of this year, 188,300 tourists from countries such as Canada, Spain, Russia, Uzbekistan and Cuba have already visited the zone to use medical services.

    Kareldus Agas, an official with the International Tourism Promotion Department of Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy, was deeply impressed by the comprehensive services at the pilot zone after visiting some wellness projects and traditional cultural activities, including calligraphy and cupping.

    He said that Boao Lecheng not only offers advanced medical services, but also a harmonious combination of relaxation, wellness and spiritual healing, creating a truly unforgettable experience. He expressed a strong desire to visit the area again, even without a medical request, just to enjoy the unique feeling of relaxation he felt there.

    The pilot zone has established partnerships with more than 180 pharmaceutical companies and medical equipment manufacturers from 20 countries, providing access to advanced international medical services for both domestic and foreign visitors, said He Ying, an official with the Boao Lecheng International Health Tourism Pilot Zone.

    He added that the zone will continue to strengthen its service platforms and capacity to receive foreign tourists with the aim of becoming a world-class health tourism destination.

    As part of its broader economic strategy, China is turning Hainan into a free trade port and aims to turn the province into a global tourist and consumer destination by 2035. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi: The Global Statesman of Our Times

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Since the Second World War, almost eight decades ago, no leader had captivated the global imagination until the late 2010s.

    The majority of the Cold War years were lost to the political turmoil that plagued the nations in the West. In the Soviet Union, the leaders were infamous for weakening the once grand empire. Even the American Presidents could not escape the curse of time, and eventually, the world entered the 20th century with crises that hinted at imminent conflicts.

    Back home in India, the political leadership was largely contained within one party, and further, within one family.

    Not choosing to align with a bloc, India went for the non-aligned movement, and in hindsight, we were everywhere, and yet, nowhere. When Chief Minister Narendra Modi was elevated to the higher office in Delhi in 2014, a nation of more than 120 Crore people was not only looking at a new leadership framework to guide the nation, but also a new perspective to take India’s message to the world.

    In Narendra Modi, the country saw the resolve of a national leader and the vision of a global statesman.

    The last eleven years have been of global turmoil. The 2010s witnessed the incapacity of several Western nations, including the United States of America, to shake off the economic horrors of the Great Recession of 2008.

    Just when the nations were getting their economic trajectory back on track, the pandemic, the most gruesome in a century, hit the world in 2020. This was followed by the global supply chain crisis in 2020-21, the Russia-Ukraine War in 2022, and the Middle East tensions in 2023. In the decade PM Modi has governed India, the world has been in a constant state of chaos.

    In this constant state of chaos, the political leadership across countries has been impacted as well. America saw the exit of a Democratic President in 2016, only to witness the return of another leader from the same party in 2020.

    Across Europe, governments found their mandates dented post-pandemic, if not snatched altogether. Even China, which began the 2010s with geopolitical heft, was marred in its economic challenges by early 2020s, and while the leadership remains, resistance against the Communist Party is attaining a point of inevitability.

    It is in this decade PM Modi cemented his position globally. While the combination of welfare programs, strong economic growth, prudent fiscal management, infrastructure push, and rapid digitalisation ushered the nation ahead under his leadership, the last decade was also of diplomacy with a difference.

    India, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, was no longer a mute spectator nor a submissive commentator. India’s assertion was visible in the early months of the Narendra Modi Government. Diplomacy had several facets, from rescue operations to humanitarian aids, from enhancing economic relations to collaborating on modern technologies.

    In 2022, PM Modi’s stellar move to balance national economic interests with geopolitical intricacies resulted in India increasing its share of oil imports from Russia. Eventually, even the Europeans had to follow India’s cue. Post-2023 and the October attack on Israel, India’s global stance on the Middle East was consistent with the sensitivities of the region.

    PM Modi’s diplomatic approach has been about prioritising the relationship before the returns, and that is what explains the constant push in African countries, and even some South American countries. Many countries that were earlier ignored under the previous governments are now active partners.

    Interestingly, the Modi Doctrine has also been about evolving with time. Eleven years is a long time, and countries do diverge on several issues. Case in question is Turkey. While the nation responded to India’s humanitarian aid with drones to Pakistan, PM Modi was quick to send them a direct reminder during his visit to Cyprus.

    Modi’s diplomacy has several shades, and several countries have embraced it as well, which explains the number of honours for the Prime Minister. Earlier today, PM Modi has been conferred with Ghana’s highest state honor, the Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana, marking a significant milestone in his global recognition. This award is part of an impressive collection of 24 international honors celebrated by 140 crore Indians, symbolizing India’s relentless rise on the world stage.

    The accolades span a wide range of nations, including Cyprus’s Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III, Sri Lanka’s Mitra Vibhushana, Mauritius’ Grand Commander of the Order of the Star & Key of the Indian Ocean, Kuwait’s Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer, Guyana’s Order of Excellence, Barbados’ Order of Freedom, Nigeria’s Grand Commander of the Order, and Dominica’s Dominica Award of Honour.

    Additional distinctions come from Russia’s Order of St. Andrew the Apostle, Greece’s Grand Cross of the Order of Honour, France’s Grand Cross of the Legion, Egypt’s Order of the Nile, Republic of Palau’s Ebakl Award, Papua New Guinea’s Order of Logohu, Fiji’s Companion of the Order of Fiji, and Bhutan’s Order of the Druk Gyalpo.

    The list of honors continues with the US Government’s Legion of Merit, Bahrain’s King Hamad Order of the Renaissance, Maldives’ Order of the Distinguished Rule of Nishan Izzuddin, United Arab Emirates’ Order of Zayed Award, Palestine’s Grand Collar of the State of Palestine Award, Afghanistan’s State Order of Ghazi Amir Amanullah Khan, and Saudi Arabia’s Order of King Abdulaziz.

    PM Narendra Modi will be conferred with Trinidad and Tobago’s highest civilian honour, The Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, his 25th sovereign honour.

    PM Modi is a global statesman of our times. Since Franklin D. Roosevelt, no leader has been so instrumental to a world that is rapidly changing. Eleven years in office, and only half done in all probability, the Prime Minister has a lot to offer to the world in terms of global leadership. He’s India’s strongest voice, sincerest messenger, and the most stupendous testament to a nation that is rediscovering its civilizational place in the world.

    (Tushar Gupta is a Delhi-based journalist and a political commentator)

  • India’s healthcare system accessible, affordable and innovative: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Saturday underlined India’s growing stature as a global hub for pharmaceuticals and medical research, while reaffirming that the country’s healthcare system remains qualitative, accessible and affordable.

    Speaking at the inauguration of the 7th Annual International Conference of the Innovative Physicians Forum — IPF MEDICON 2025 — in New Delhi, Birla said India’s medical infrastructure and service delivery have significantly improved, making healthcare more inclusive and patient-centric.

    “India has enhanced the quality of healthcare while ensuring it remains within the reach of every citizen,” Birla said, highlighting the role of digital health technologies, expanded outreach, and affordable treatment options in building a robust and equitable healthcare ecosystem.

    Addressing medical professionals and delegates from Nepal, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, and the UK, the Speaker praised Indian doctors for embracing innovation and advanced technologies, even as developed countries face growing health challenges. “The reputation and quality of Indian doctors have earned recognition worldwide,” he said.

    Birla noted that despite limited resources, the dedication and sacrifice of doctors, paramedical staff and healthcare workers enabled India to effectively manage the COVID-19 pandemic — a testament, he said, to the credibility of India’s healthcare system.

    Emphasising India’s emergence as a centre for drug manufacturing, vaccine production and biomedical research, the Lok Sabha Speaker said the country’s skilled scientists, strong research infrastructure, and commitment to innovation are driving advancements that serve both domestic and global health needs.

    He added that the government is prioritising research, innovation and free medical treatment for the underprivileged through initiatives such as Ayushman Bharat, further strengthening India’s role in shaping the future of global health.

    Calling innovation and research the “need of the hour”, Birla urged institutions, scientists, and policymakers to collaborate and harness rapid scientific and technological advancements to tackle emerging health challenges and improve patient care. “Fostering a culture of innovation and investing in medical research are essential for developing new treatments, enhancing disease prevention, and strengthening the healthcare ecosystem,” he said.

    Speaking about the conference, Birla said it is more than an event — “it is a global platform for human service.” He expressed hope that discussions would address artificial intelligence, digital tools, robotics, and other modern medical technologies to help create a more efficient and human-centred healthcare system.

    Kamaljeet Sehrawat, MP, was also present at the conference alongside international medical representatives.

  • India’s healthcare system accessible, affordable and innovative: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Saturday underlined India’s growing stature as a global hub for pharmaceuticals and medical research, while reaffirming that the country’s healthcare system remains qualitative, accessible and affordable.

    Speaking at the inauguration of the 7th Annual International Conference of the Innovative Physicians Forum — IPF MEDICON 2025 — in New Delhi, Birla said India’s medical infrastructure and service delivery have significantly improved, making healthcare more inclusive and patient-centric.

    “India has enhanced the quality of healthcare while ensuring it remains within the reach of every citizen,” Birla said, highlighting the role of digital health technologies, expanded outreach, and affordable treatment options in building a robust and equitable healthcare ecosystem.

    Addressing medical professionals and delegates from Nepal, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, and the UK, the Speaker praised Indian doctors for embracing innovation and advanced technologies, even as developed countries face growing health challenges. “The reputation and quality of Indian doctors have earned recognition worldwide,” he said.

    Birla noted that despite limited resources, the dedication and sacrifice of doctors, paramedical staff and healthcare workers enabled India to effectively manage the COVID-19 pandemic — a testament, he said, to the credibility of India’s healthcare system.

    Emphasising India’s emergence as a centre for drug manufacturing, vaccine production and biomedical research, the Lok Sabha Speaker said the country’s skilled scientists, strong research infrastructure, and commitment to innovation are driving advancements that serve both domestic and global health needs.

    He added that the government is prioritising research, innovation and free medical treatment for the underprivileged through initiatives such as Ayushman Bharat, further strengthening India’s role in shaping the future of global health.

    Calling innovation and research the “need of the hour”, Birla urged institutions, scientists, and policymakers to collaborate and harness rapid scientific and technological advancements to tackle emerging health challenges and improve patient care. “Fostering a culture of innovation and investing in medical research are essential for developing new treatments, enhancing disease prevention, and strengthening the healthcare ecosystem,” he said.

    Speaking about the conference, Birla said it is more than an event — “it is a global platform for human service.” He expressed hope that discussions would address artificial intelligence, digital tools, robotics, and other modern medical technologies to help create a more efficient and human-centred healthcare system.

    Kamaljeet Sehrawat, MP, was also present at the conference alongside international medical representatives.

  • Carrying red wreath, Liverpool players join family for Diego Jota’s funeral

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Carrying a red floral wreath bearing his shirt number, Diogo Jota’s Liverpool teammates joined relatives and residents in a small Portuguese town on Saturday for the funeral of the soccer star, who died with his brother in a car crash on Thursday.

    Club captain Virgil Van Dijk, goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher and manager Arne Slot were among Liverpool teammates past and present who attended the service in Gondomar for the striker and his brother, Andre Silva.

    The English Premier League stars carried two floral tributes in the club’s red colour into the chapel, each in the shape of a shirt.

    The one carried by Van Dijk had the number 20 written in white flowers, which Jota wore on his Liverpool shirt.

    The other bore the number 30, which was worn by Jota’s brother, who played for FC Peñafiel in Portugal’s second division.

    Dressed in black and with their heads bowed, the teammates entered the church in silence. The only sound was the applause from the crowd outside.

    Rute Cardoso, who married her childhood sweetheart Jota only weeks before the fatal crash, arrived with relatives.

    Hundreds of residents of Gondomar, a small town in northern Portugal where Jota grew up, gathered outside.

    The private service was presided over by the Bishop of Porto, Manuel Linda.

    In an emotional homily addressed to Jota’s parents, his wife and their three young children, Linda said “solidarity in love is always stronger than death”.

    Teammates from the Portugal national squad including Bernardo Silva and Bruno Fernandes, who both play in the English Premier League, also attended the service.

    “Jota will always be in our hearts. He will always be present at every breakfast, lunch, dinner, at all our national team get-togethers, at our PlayStation games, at our card games,” Silva told Portuguese broadcaster TVI.

    Jota’s death at the age of 28 sent shock waves through the world of soccer and beyond, with messages of condolences pouring in from national leaders as well as across the sport.

    Fans continued to lay flowers and other tributes to the striker on Saturday outside Liverpool’s Anfield stadium.

    The brothers were believed to have been driving to a ferry in Spain to travel to Britain when their Lamborghini veered off the road and burst into flames after midnight on Thursday. Police said they suspected a tyre had burst.

    -Reuters

  • Carrying red wreath, Liverpool players join family for Diego Jota’s funeral

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Carrying a red floral wreath bearing his shirt number, Diogo Jota’s Liverpool teammates joined relatives and residents in a small Portuguese town on Saturday for the funeral of the soccer star, who died with his brother in a car crash on Thursday.

    Club captain Virgil Van Dijk, goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher and manager Arne Slot were among Liverpool teammates past and present who attended the service in Gondomar for the striker and his brother, Andre Silva.

    The English Premier League stars carried two floral tributes in the club’s red colour into the chapel, each in the shape of a shirt.

    The one carried by Van Dijk had the number 20 written in white flowers, which Jota wore on his Liverpool shirt.

    The other bore the number 30, which was worn by Jota’s brother, who played for FC Peñafiel in Portugal’s second division.

    Dressed in black and with their heads bowed, the teammates entered the church in silence. The only sound was the applause from the crowd outside.

    Rute Cardoso, who married her childhood sweetheart Jota only weeks before the fatal crash, arrived with relatives.

    Hundreds of residents of Gondomar, a small town in northern Portugal where Jota grew up, gathered outside.

    The private service was presided over by the Bishop of Porto, Manuel Linda.

    In an emotional homily addressed to Jota’s parents, his wife and their three young children, Linda said “solidarity in love is always stronger than death”.

    Teammates from the Portugal national squad including Bernardo Silva and Bruno Fernandes, who both play in the English Premier League, also attended the service.

    “Jota will always be in our hearts. He will always be present at every breakfast, lunch, dinner, at all our national team get-togethers, at our PlayStation games, at our card games,” Silva told Portuguese broadcaster TVI.

    Jota’s death at the age of 28 sent shock waves through the world of soccer and beyond, with messages of condolences pouring in from national leaders as well as across the sport.

    Fans continued to lay flowers and other tributes to the striker on Saturday outside Liverpool’s Anfield stadium.

    The brothers were believed to have been driving to a ferry in Spain to travel to Britain when their Lamborghini veered off the road and burst into flames after midnight on Thursday. Police said they suspected a tyre had burst.

    -Reuters

  • MIL-OSI: BexBack Announces New 100x Leverage, 100% Deposit Bonus & $50 Welcome Bonus – No KYC Required

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, July 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In response to the growing demand for high-leverage crypto trading, BexBack, a leading cryptocurrency exchange platform, is excited to announce the launch of its enhanced trading features, now available to all users worldwide.

    As Bitcoin continues to fluctuate above the $100,000 mark, many investors are seeking opportunities to maximize their potential gains in this volatile market. To support this, BexBack is rolling out a limited-time offer featuring 100x leverage, 100% deposit match, and a $50 welcome bonus for new users.

    What’s New at BexBack?

    1. 100x Leverage: Traders can now amplify their positions by up to 100 times, enabling them to control larger trades with less capital and capture more profit from market fluctuations.
    2. 100% Deposit Bonus Match: Users who deposit funds into their BexBack accounts will receive a 100% match on their deposit, effectively doubling their initial trading capital. This bonus can be used as margin but cannot be used to offset losses.
    3. $50 Welcome Bonus: New users who meet the conditions will receive a $50 bonus upon completing their first trade.
    4. Demo Account: Comes with 10 BTC in virtual funds, ideal for beginners to practice risk-free trading.

    No KYC Required
    BexBack continues to provide a seamless and efficient trading experience with no KYC verification required, allowing traders to start trading immediately without the hassle of identity checks.

    Why Choose BexBack?
    BexBack offers a unique combination of high leverage, bonuses, and a transparent trading environment with no hidden fees, enabling traders to fully capitalize on market opportunities. The platform is known for its user-friendly interface, high-level security, and around-the-clock customer support, making it the preferred choice for both new and experienced traders.

    Take Action Now!

    This is the perfect opportunity to get started with BexBack and experience the power of high-leverage trading with attractive bonuses. To get started, simply sign up for an account and claim your bonus today! Register Now and Start Trading on BexBack!

    About BexBack

    BexBack is a cutting-edge cryptocurrency exchange platform providing futures contracts with up to 100x leverage on popular digital assets like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and more. With its base in Singapore and offices globally, BexBack is committed to providing traders with top-tier security, advanced trading tools, and exceptional customer service.

    Website: www.bexback.com

    Contact: business@bexback.com

    Contact:
    Amanda
    business@bexback.com

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by BexBack The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility. Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/be290778-76af-43cb-ac8a-dc090f805c3d

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d13ae933-e7b2-48b0-869f-5552366f1027

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3e5ea3d9-e23e-48aa-a993-191d9537678d

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e7006331-ffdf-4b77-8024-42dedf1e8004

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: UN Tourism to Promote Sustainable Tourism Development in Uzbekistan

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    Tashkent, July 5 /Xinhua/ — UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili visited the Central Asian University for Environment and Climate Change Studies /Green University/ under the Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection and Climate Change as part of his visit to Uzbekistan. As reported by Dunyo news agency on Friday, UN Tourism and Green University signed a memorandum of understanding aimed at developing cooperation in the areas of sustainable tourism, ecology and education.

    It is noted that the document envisages strengthening the potential of Uzbekistan in the field of sustainable tourism through the training of qualified personnel and the exchange of best practices, increasing public understanding of the importance of sustainable tourism as a factor in positive changes for society and nature, promoting tourism as a tool for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, facilitating the implementation of innovative solutions for environmental protection, natural resource management and combating climate change, supporting scientific research and academic exchanges, and developing joint educational and awareness-raising programs.

    The memorandum also includes regular interaction between UN Tourism and Green University, coordination of joint projects, organization of training programs and exchange of best practices, the agency reported. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Waste recycling efforts lauded

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Environment & Ecology Tse Chin-wan today officiated at an award ceremony to commend schools, students and families for their outstanding performance in waste reduction and recycling during the 2024-25 school year.

    Speaking at the SGREEN x We-recycle@School Competitions Award Ceremony, co-organised by the Environmental Protection Department (EPD) and Ocean Park Hong Kong, Mr Tse highlighted that the current-term Government has successfully reversed the long-term trend of rising waste disposal quantities over the years through promoting waste reduction at source and expanding the recycling network.

    He remarked that the disposal quantity of municipal solid waste decreased by a total of 7.5% from 2021 to 2024, while the waste recovery rate increased from 28% in 2020 to 33% in 2023.

    Mr Tse congratulated all the awardees and thanked them for their support of Hong Kong’s waste reduction and recycling efforts.

    He also emphasised that it is crucial to educate the next generation to achieve waste reduction at source.

    “In 2024, the EPD launched the We-recycle@School Activity, providing a variety of teaching materials and promotional support to primary and secondary schools in Hong Kong to assist schools and teachers in integrating waste reduction and recycling knowledge into daily teaching, encourage students to make good use of recycling facilities in schools and the community, and inspire their family members to practise resource separation and recycling together.”

    The EPD said the We-recycle@School Activity has received an overwhelming response since its launch. Currently, around 550 primary and secondary schools have participated in the scheme, encompassing about 350,000 students.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –