NewzIntel.com

Category: Asia

  • Sabalenka stands tall, Norrie survives to reach Wimbledon quarter-finals

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    HEAVY SHOWERS

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

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

    Explaining her run, Siegemund said it was simple.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The Central Archives of the CPC Central Committee has opened more than 57,000 documents to the public

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    BEIJING, July 7 (Xinhua) — The Central Archives of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee on Monday opened more than 57,000 documents to the public to mark the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.

    The new archives, which have been made available to the public, include more than 40,000 special materials covering the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression from September 1931 to September 1945.

    The special archives that have been made public are said to be telegrams, communiqués, reports, papers and other documents compiled by party organizations at all levels, competent organs, military units and mass associations led by the Communist Party of China. They focus on the leadership of the CPC.

    Anyone interested may view these archival materials upon presentation of an identity card, service ID or other appropriate document. -0-

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

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: BRICS represents an opportunity to create a fairer world order: Malaysian PM

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: A forum on entering the Russian market was held in Dongguan, southern China

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    BEIJING, July 7 (Xinhua) — The “Entering the Russian Market” forum was successfully held in Dongguan, south China’s Guangdong Province, on Thursday. The event brought together government, business, science and research leaders to discuss new opportunities in the Russian market for enterprises in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

    According to the Phoenix news portal, Zhang Yuliang, vice-mayor of Hunchun City (Jilin Province, Northeast China), delivered a welcoming speech. He emphasized Hunchun’s advantageous geographical position as an important city bordering Russia in the area of cross-border cooperation, outlining bright prospects for Chinese-Russian trade and economic cooperation for the participants.

    Then, Chen Ping, an official from Dongguan Association for the Promotion of Trade, presented an in-depth analysis of the opportunities and ways for enterprises in the Greater Bay Area to enter the Russian market, offering practical recommendations.

    At the roundtable, participants launched an active discussion on the topic “The Russian market in 2025: advantages, risks, breakthrough strategies and integration paths.” Experts proposed multifaceted approaches to entering the Russian market, examining issues of coordinating political measures and guidelines, platform business activities, ensuring supply chains and other aspects.

    During the interactive session, participants actively asked questions, and experts gave detailed answers, creating a lively atmosphere. As the discussion deepened, participants’ understanding of the Russian market became clearer, and their vision of ways to enter the Russian market became clearer. -0-

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

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • BRICS demand wealthy nations fund global climate transition

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    (Reuters)

  • BRICS demand wealthy nations fund global climate transition

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI: Ellomay and Statkraft Sign Long-Term Power Purchase Agreements for Three Operating Italian Solar Plants

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

                             

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

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

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

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

    About Ellomay Capital Ltd.

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

    To date, Ellomay has evaluated numerous opportunities and invested significant funds in the renewable, clean energy and natural resources industries in Israel, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands and Texas, USA, including:

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

    For more information about Ellomay, visit http://www.ellomay.com.

    About Statkraft

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

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

    About Maya International Strategic Alliances Ltd.

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

    Information Relating to Forward-Looking Statements

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

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

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Ellomay and Statkraft Sign Long-Term Power Purchase Agreements for Three Operating Italian Solar Plants

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

                             

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

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

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

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

    About Ellomay Capital Ltd.

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

    To date, Ellomay has evaluated numerous opportunities and invested significant funds in the renewable, clean energy and natural resources industries in Israel, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands and Texas, USA, including:

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

    For more information about Ellomay, visit http://www.ellomay.com.

    About Statkraft

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

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

    About Maya International Strategic Alliances Ltd.

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

    Information Relating to Forward-Looking Statements

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

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

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Shell second quarter 2025 update note

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

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

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

       Integrated Gas

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

     Upstream

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

     Marketing

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

      Chemicals and Products

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

    *See appendix

     Renewables and Energy Solutions

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

    Corporate

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

    Shell Group

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

    Guidance

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

    Consensus

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

    Appendix

    Indicative Margins

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

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

    Volume Data

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

    Underlying Opex

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

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

    Depreciation, depletion and amortisation

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

    Taxation Charge

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

    Adjusted Earnings

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

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

    Enquiries

    Media International: +44 (0) 207 934 5550

    Media U.S. and Canada: Contact form

    Cautionary Note

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

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

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

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

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

    Forward-Looking Non-GAAP measures

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

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

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

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

    LEI number of Shell plc: 21380068P1DRHMJ8KU70

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Sterling Trading Tech wins Best Listed Derivatives Trading Platform in APAC

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Chicago , July 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Sterling Trading Tech (Sterling), a leading provider of professional trading technology solutions, today announced that its trading platform has been named Best Listed Derivatives Trading Platform in the 2025 A-Team Capital Markets Technology Awards APAC.

    The award recognizes Sterling’s continued innovation in listed derivatives technology, with a focus on equities and options. Designed to meet the demands of fast-moving markets, Sterling’s trading platforms deliver the speed, flexibility, and control required by institutional and professional traders across the APAC region.

    Sterling supports access to U.S. markets through a high-performance, broker-neutral platform that includes advanced order types, real-time risk controls, and intuitive multi-asset functionality- all tailored for active equity and options trading.

    Said Jen Nayar, President & CEO of Sterling Trading Tech: “This award highlights our commitment to providing powerful, stable, and accessible trading platforms to firms across APAC, as interest in U.S. equity and options trading continues to rise in the region, we’re proud to support our clients with the tools they need to compete effectively and with confidence.”

    The A-Team Capital Markets Technology Awards APAC celebrate excellence in trading and data technology across the Asia-Pacific institutional trading community. Winners are determined by industry votes and a panel of independent experts.

    – END –

    About Sterling Trading Tech
    Sterling Trading Tech (Sterling) is a leading provider of professional trading technology solutions for the global equities, equity options, futures, fixed income, mutual funds, FX, and crypto markets. With over 100 clients across more than 20 countries, Sterling delivers fast, reliable platforms tailored to the needs of brokers, clearing firms, and proprietary trading groups. Sterling is committed to innovation, stability, and exceptional client service. For more information, please visit www.sterlingtradingtech.com.

    Media Contact:
     Magdalena Mayer
    magdalena.mayer@sterlingtradingtech.com
     (312) 346-9600

    The MIL Network –

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

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    This exclusive World Elite Mastercard credit card will also unlock a host of premium privileges through Mastercard’s Priceless Specials platform, such as:

    • A complimentary one-night stay at luxury hotels
    • A free gourmet meal at top restaurants across Asia Pacific
    • Exclusive rooftop dining at CÉ LA VI, Marina Bay Sands, Singapore, plus a SG$100 voucher
    • Access to over 46 premium golf clubs, including TPC® courses operated by the PGA TOUR

    The new card will also enable additional perks for cardholders, including:

    • Global data roaming with Flexiroam
    • Discounted car rentals from Hertz
    • USD 1,000 off Uniworld river cruises
    • Fast-track elite memberships with hotel loyalty programs like GHA DISCOVERY, HoteLux, Wyndham Rewards, and I Prefer

    Further, cardholders will gain access to exclusive and specially curated experiences through Mastercard’s globally renowned Priceless platform. They will also be able to enjoy complimentary access to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide through Mastercard’s LoungeKey program, along with access to select domestic lounges—ensuring comfort and convenience wherever they travel.

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

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

    About IDEX Biometrics

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

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

    About Mastercard

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

    For more information, please visit www.mastercard.com

    About Eastern Bank PLC

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

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

    About Infineon

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

    For more information, please visit www.infineon.com

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

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

    Attachments

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Money Market Operations as on July 05, 2025

    Source: Reserve Bank of India
    (Amount in ₹ crore, Rate in Per cent)
      Volume
    (One Leg)    		 Weighted
    Average Rate    		 Range
    A. Overnight Segment (I+II+III+IV) 9,510.71 4.86 3.50-5.30
         I. Call Money 1,535.90 4.91 4.70-5.30
         II. Triparty Repo 7,828.30 4.87 4.40-5.03
         III. Market Repo 146.51 3.96 3.50-4.15
         IV. Repo in Corporate Bond 0.00 – –
    B. Term Segment      
         I. Notice Money** 0.70 5.10 5.10-5.10
         II. Term Money@@ 0.00 – –
         III. Triparty Repo 0.00 – –
         IV. Market Repo 0.00 – –
         V. Repo in Corporate Bond 0.00 – –
      Auction Date Tenor (Days) Maturity Date Amount Current Rate /
    Cut off Rate
    C. Liquidity Adjustment Facility (LAF), Marginal Standing Facility (MSF) & Standing Deposit Facility (SDF)
    I. Today’s Operations
    1. Fixed Rate          
    2. Variable Rate&          
      (I) Main Operation          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (II) Fine Tuning Operations          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
    3. MSF# Sat, 05/07/2025 1 Sun, 06/07/2025 216.00 5.75
      Sat, 05/07/2025 2 Mon, 07/07/2025 0.00 5.75
    4. SDFΔ# Sat, 05/07/2025 1 Sun, 06/07/2025 2,50,171.00 5.25
      Sat, 05/07/2025 2 Mon, 07/07/2025 34,984.00 5.25
    5. Net liquidity injected from today’s operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*       -2,84,939.00  
    II. Outstanding Operations
    1. Fixed Rate          
    2. Variable Rate&          
      (I) Main Operation          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (II) Fine Tuning Operations          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo Fri, 04/07/2025 7 Fri, 11/07/2025 1,00,010.00 5.47
    3. MSF# Fri, 04/07/2025 2 Sun, 06/07/2025 0.00 5.75
      Fri, 04/07/2025 3 Mon, 07/07/2025 1,000.00 5.75
    4. SDFΔ# Fri, 04/07/2025 2 Sun, 06/07/2025 0.00 5.25
      Fri, 04/07/2025 3 Mon, 07/07/2025 30,612.00 5.25
    D. Standing Liquidity Facility (SLF) Availed from RBI$       6,217.11  
    E. Net liquidity injected from outstanding operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*     -1,23,404.89  
    F. Net liquidity injected (outstanding including today’s operations) [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*     -4,08,343.89  
    G. Cash Reserves Position of Scheduled Commercial Banks
         (i) Cash balances with RBI as on July 05, 2025 9,36,527.69  
         (ii) Average daily cash reserve requirement for the fortnight ending July 11, 2025 9,52,318.00  
    H. Government of India Surplus Cash Balance Reckoned for Auction as on¥ July 04, 2025 0.00  
    I. Net durable liquidity [surplus (+)/deficit (-)] as on June 13, 2025 5,62,116.00  
    @ Based on Reserve Bank of India (RBI) / Clearing Corporation of India Limited (CCIL).
    – Not Applicable / No Transaction.
    ** Relates to uncollateralized transactions of 2 to 14 days tenor.
    @@ Relates to uncollateralized transactions of 15 days to one year tenor.
    $ Includes refinance facilities extended by RBI.
    & As per the Press Release No. 2019-2020/1900 dated February 06, 2020.
    Δ As per the Press Release No. 2022-2023/41 dated April 08, 2022.
    * Net liquidity is calculated as Repo+MSF+SLF-Reverse Repo-SDF.
    ¥ As per the Press Release No. 2014-2015/1971 dated March 19, 2015.
    # As per the Press Release No. 2023-2024/1548 dated December 27, 2023.
    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    
    Press Release: 2025-2026/661

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Money Market Operations as on July 06, 2025

    Source: Reserve Bank of India
    (Amount in ₹ crore, Rate in Per cent)
      Volume
    (One Leg)    		 Weighted
    Average Rate    		 Range
    A. Overnight Segment (I+II+III+IV) 0.00 – –
         I. Call Money 0.00 – –
         II. Triparty Repo 0.00 – –
         III. Market Repo 0.00 – –
         IV. Repo in Corporate Bond 0.00 – –
    B. Term Segment      
         I. Notice Money** 0.00 – –
         II. Term Money@@ 0.00 – –
         III. Triparty Repo 0.00 – –
         IV. Market Repo 0.00 – –
         V. Repo in Corporate Bond 0.00 – –
      Auction Date Tenor (Days) Maturity Date Amount Current Rate /
    Cut off Rate
    C. Liquidity Adjustment Facility (LAF), Marginal Standing Facility (MSF) & Standing Deposit Facility (SDF)
    I. Today’s Operations
    1. Fixed Rate          
    2. Variable Rate&          
      (I) Main Operation          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (II) Fine Tuning Operations          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
    3. MSF# Sun, 06/07/2025 1 Mon, 07/07/2025 339.00 5.75
    4. SDFΔ# Sun, 06/07/2025 1 Mon, 07/07/2025 2,50,650.00 5.25
    5. Net liquidity injected from today’s operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*       -2,50,311.00  
    II. Outstanding Operations
    1. Fixed Rate          
    2. Variable Rate&          
      (I) Main Operation          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (II) Fine Tuning Operations          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo Fri, 04/07/2025 7 Fri, 11/07/2025 1,00,010.00 5.47
    3. MSF# Sat, 05/07/2025 2 Mon, 07/07/2025 0.00 5.75
      Fri, 04/07/2025 3 Mon, 07/07/2025 1,000.00 5.75
    4. SDFΔ# Sat, 05/07/2025 2 Mon, 07/07/2025 34,984.00 5.25
      Fri, 04/07/2025 3 Mon, 07/07/2025 30,612.00 5.25
    D. Standing Liquidity Facility (SLF) Availed from RBI$       6,217.11  
    E. Net liquidity injected from outstanding operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*     -1,58,388.89  
    F. Net liquidity injected (outstanding including today’s operations) [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*     -4,08,699.89  
    G. Cash Reserves Position of Scheduled Commercial Banks
         (i) Cash balances with RBI as on July 06, 2025 9,36,049.79  
         (ii) Average daily cash reserve requirement for the fortnight ending July 11, 2025 9,52,318.00  
    H. Government of India Surplus Cash Balance Reckoned for Auction as on¥ July 04, 2025 0.00  
    I. Net durable liquidity [surplus (+)/deficit (-)] as on June 13, 2025 5,62,116.00  
    @ Based on Reserve Bank of India (RBI) / Clearing Corporation of India Limited (CCIL).
    – Not Applicable / No Transaction.
    ** Relates to uncollateralized transactions of 2 to 14 days tenor.
    @@ Relates to uncollateralized transactions of 15 days to one year tenor.
    $ Includes refinance facilities extended by RBI.
    & As per the Press Release No. 2019-2020/1900 dated February 06, 2020.
    Δ As per the Press Release No. 2022-2023/41 dated April 08, 2022.
    * Net liquidity is calculated as Repo+MSF+SLF-Reverse Repo-SDF.
    ¥ As per the Press Release No. 2014-2015/1971 dated March 19, 2015.
    # As per the Press Release No. 2023-2024/1548 dated December 27, 2023.
    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    
    Press Release: 2025-2026/662

    MIL OSI Economics –

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

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

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

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

    The following is the full text of the speech:

    Remarks by H.E. Li Qiang

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

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

    Rio de Janeiro, July 6, 2025

    Your Excellency President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva,

    Colleagues,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Thank you.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Erin Patterson has been found guilty in the mushroom murder trial. Legal experts explain why

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Rick Sarre, Emeritus Professor in Law and Criminal Justice, University of South Australia

    After seven weeks of evidence, six days of summing up, and six and a half days of jury deliberation in the Victorian Supreme Court sitting in Morwell, Victoria, the verdict is finally in. Erin Patterson murdered her estranged husband’s parents, Don and Gail Patterson, along with Gail’s sister, Heather Wilkinson.

    She was also found guilty of attempting to murder Heather’s husband Ian: the only guest to survive the beef wellington lunch served in July 2023 at her home in Leongatha.

    In delivering the guilty verdict, the jury was satisfied Erin Patterson had complete control over the ingredients that went into the meal portions served to her guests – portions that included death cap mushrooms.

    There would not be too many observers surprised with the outcome, given the strength of the prosecution case presented by Nanette Rogers.

    There were no procedural surprises in this case. The prosecution presented its case, followed by the defence and ultimately, a jury verdict.

    But this much-publicised case raises a number of legal issues that contributed to the length of the trial and its outcome. Let’s unpack them.

    Motive doesn’t matter

    The first is the question of motive. Defence counsel Colin Mandy made much of his assertion that there was no apparent reason for the accused to kill her guests.

    It is, however, a mistake to think there needs to be a motive in order to convict. In cases of murder and attempted murder, all that’s required is for a jury to find a “culpable state of mind”.

    In the case of the three deceased, the jury needed to be satisfied, beyond any reasonable doubt, that there was an intention to kill, or to do serious bodily harm.

    In other words, it did not matter why Patterson killed her victims, only that she intended to do so, or to inflict serious harm with death resulting. In the case of the surviving guest, the jury was satisfied that there had been an intention to kill.

    Establishing a motive is a useful tool that prosecution counsel may deploy to add fuel to the fire in the courtroom, but it was not necessary for Rogers to locate a motive in order for the jury to reach guilty verdicts.

    Circumstantial, but substantial

    Another oft-repeated fallacy is that guilty verdicts require more than “mere” circumstantial evidence.

    In fact, most evidence in criminal cases is circumstantial, because direct evidence (such as an eyewitness or a visual or voice recording) is usually unavailable.

    The circumstantial evidence in this case, according to the prosecution, included the attempted hiding of a tainted dehydrator, the doubt cast over whether an Asian grocer was the source of the poisonous mushrooms, and the fact that Erin Patterson’s meal portion was free of the deadly ingredient.

    Placed together, this circumstantial evidence was strong enough for the 12 men and women to return guilty verdicts.

    Indeed, taking into consideration the strength of this evidence, it is perhaps surprising that Patterson did not plead guilty to murder, given the discount on sentence she may have received. She chose to take her chances with a jury. Ultimately, she failed.

    Days of summing up

    Another interesting aspect of the case is that the summing up by the two lead barristers, and then the judge, took more than six days. A generation ago, these addresses would have typically taken considerably less time than that.

    The change, which has occurred slowly over the last two decades, has been necessitated by appeal judgements following guilty verdicts in long trials. In some of these, defence counsel successfully argued the defence case was not sufficiently covered in the judge’s summing up.

    That being the case, the prosecution summary now needs to preempt every aspect of the defence case, knowing the defence counsel summary that follows will attend to every last point that the prosecution has raised.

    Then the judge needs to give chapter and verse (in this case, over four days) in relation to everything again, paying particular attention to the defence case.

    The process is now laborious and time-consuming. One might pity the jurors hearing everything over and over again.

    Indeed, we believe there is little evidence this very expensive change has raised the quality of verdicts.

    But one cannot doubt the way that the criminal process now goes to extraordinary lengths to ensure that an accused receives a fair trial. We will never know why the jury took over six days to reach its verdict (in Australia they are duty bound not to reveal anything of their deliberations), but it does indicate the seriousness with which they treat their role in this process.

    The trust that is placed in the hands of jurors, even with the high profile media frenzy that this case elicited, remains firm.

    On the other hand, with such drawn-out procedures, it’s perhaps not surprising that court backlogs continue to grow, and ever-increasing numbers of people (currently 42% of the Australian prison population) are sitting in prison on remand, awaiting trial.

    What now?

    The maximum sentence for murder in Victoria is life imprisonment. This does not necessarily mean life in prison, for the minimum non-parole period is 30 years, unless a court considers it not in the interests of justice to set such a term.

    Erin Patterson will likely receive a life sentence, with a non-parole period that is in keeping with the number of victims.

    The head sentence and non-parole period will be set by Justice Christopher Beale after sentencing submissions in the days and weeks to come.

    The so-called “mushroom case” still has another chapter to run.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Erin Patterson has been found guilty in the mushroom murder trial. Legal experts explain why – https://theconversation.com/erin-patterson-has-been-found-guilty-in-the-mushroom-murder-trial-legal-experts-explain-why-230294

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Erin Patterson has been found guilty in the mushroom murder trial. Legal experts explain why

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Rick Sarre, Emeritus Professor in Law and Criminal Justice, University of South Australia

    After seven weeks of evidence, six days of summing up, and six and a half days of jury deliberation in the Victorian Supreme Court sitting in Morwell, Victoria, the verdict is finally in. Erin Patterson murdered her estranged husband’s parents, Don and Gail Patterson, along with Gail’s sister, Heather Wilkinson.

    She was also found guilty of attempting to murder Heather’s husband Ian: the only guest to survive the beef wellington lunch served in July 2023 at her home in Leongatha.

    In delivering the guilty verdict, the jury was satisfied Erin Patterson had complete control over the ingredients that went into the meal portions served to her guests – portions that included death cap mushrooms.

    There would not be too many observers surprised with the outcome, given the strength of the prosecution case presented by Nanette Rogers.

    There were no procedural surprises in this case. The prosecution presented its case, followed by the defence and ultimately, a jury verdict.

    But this much-publicised case raises a number of legal issues that contributed to the length of the trial and its outcome. Let’s unpack them.

    Motive doesn’t matter

    The first is the question of motive. Defence counsel Colin Mandy made much of his assertion that there was no apparent reason for the accused to kill her guests.

    It is, however, a mistake to think there needs to be a motive in order to convict. In cases of murder and attempted murder, all that’s required is for a jury to find a “culpable state of mind”.

    In the case of the three deceased, the jury needed to be satisfied, beyond any reasonable doubt, that there was an intention to kill, or to do serious bodily harm.

    In other words, it did not matter why Patterson killed her victims, only that she intended to do so, or to inflict serious harm with death resulting. In the case of the surviving guest, the jury was satisfied that there had been an intention to kill.

    Establishing a motive is a useful tool that prosecution counsel may deploy to add fuel to the fire in the courtroom, but it was not necessary for Rogers to locate a motive in order for the jury to reach guilty verdicts.

    Circumstantial, but substantial

    Another oft-repeated fallacy is that guilty verdicts require more than “mere” circumstantial evidence.

    In fact, most evidence in criminal cases is circumstantial, because direct evidence (such as an eyewitness or a visual or voice recording) is usually unavailable.

    The circumstantial evidence in this case, according to the prosecution, included the attempted hiding of a tainted dehydrator, the doubt cast over whether an Asian grocer was the source of the poisonous mushrooms, and the fact that Erin Patterson’s meal portion was free of the deadly ingredient.

    Placed together, this circumstantial evidence was strong enough for the 12 men and women to return guilty verdicts.

    Indeed, taking into consideration the strength of this evidence, it is perhaps surprising that Patterson did not plead guilty to murder, given the discount on sentence she may have received. She chose to take her chances with a jury. Ultimately, she failed.

    Days of summing up

    Another interesting aspect of the case is that the summing up by the two lead barristers, and then the judge, took more than six days. A generation ago, these addresses would have typically taken considerably less time than that.

    The change, which has occurred slowly over the last two decades, has been necessitated by appeal judgements following guilty verdicts in long trials. In some of these, defence counsel successfully argued the defence case was not sufficiently covered in the judge’s summing up.

    That being the case, the prosecution summary now needs to preempt every aspect of the defence case, knowing the defence counsel summary that follows will attend to every last point that the prosecution has raised.

    Then the judge needs to give chapter and verse (in this case, over four days) in relation to everything again, paying particular attention to the defence case.

    The process is now laborious and time-consuming. One might pity the jurors hearing everything over and over again.

    Indeed, we believe there is little evidence this very expensive change has raised the quality of verdicts.

    But one cannot doubt the way that the criminal process now goes to extraordinary lengths to ensure that an accused receives a fair trial. We will never know why the jury took over six days to reach its verdict (in Australia they are duty bound not to reveal anything of their deliberations), but it does indicate the seriousness with which they treat their role in this process.

    The trust that is placed in the hands of jurors, even with the high profile media frenzy that this case elicited, remains firm.

    On the other hand, with such drawn-out procedures, it’s perhaps not surprising that court backlogs continue to grow, and ever-increasing numbers of people (currently 42% of the Australian prison population) are sitting in prison on remand, awaiting trial.

    What now?

    The maximum sentence for murder in Victoria is life imprisonment. This does not necessarily mean life in prison, for the minimum non-parole period is 30 years, unless a court considers it not in the interests of justice to set such a term.

    Erin Patterson will likely receive a life sentence, with a non-parole period that is in keeping with the number of victims.

    The head sentence and non-parole period will be set by Justice Christopher Beale after sentencing submissions in the days and weeks to come.

    The so-called “mushroom case” still has another chapter to run.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Erin Patterson has been found guilty in the mushroom murder trial. Legal experts explain why – https://theconversation.com/erin-patterson-has-been-found-guilty-in-the-mushroom-murder-trial-legal-experts-explain-why-230294

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • Delhi: Rain brings much-needed relief from humid weather

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Several parts of Delhi received rainfall on Monday morning, offering much-needed relief from the hot and humid conditions that had gripped the city over the past few days.

    Rain began early in the day, with low-hanging clouds blanketing the sky across the capital. The showers helped bring down temperatures and eased the persistent humidity.

    However, the downpour also led to waterlogging in several areas, including the Mehrauli-Badarpur Road, where vehicles were seen wading through waterlogged streets.

    “Whenever it rains, the roads get waterlogged for up to five kilometres,” said one stranded commuter.

    Amit, another commuter, added, “It’s very problematic. The roads get waterlogged in just an hour of rain. My car also got a puncture.”

    The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a yellow alert for Monday, warning of thunderstorms, lightning, and squalls across all districts of Delhi, including North, North-East, North-West, South, South-West, South-East, and West Delhi.

    As of now, no such alerts have been issued for the upcoming days.

    According to the IMD, the weather in Delhi is expected to remain normal, with a forecast of “generally cloudy skies, very light to light rain accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning” over the next two to three days. Parts of Delhi had also received rainfall on Sunday morning.

    The IMD reported that the monsoon trough at mean sea level currently passes through Suratgarh, Sirsa, Delhi, Lucknow, Varanasi, Daltonganj, Bankura, Digha, and then southeastwards to the northeast Bay of Bengal. Additionally, an upper-air cyclonic circulation lies over Himachal Pradesh and adjoining Punjab at 1.5 km above mean sea level.

    Heavy to very heavy rainfall, with isolated extremely heavy showers, is likely over Chhattisgarh, Vidarbha, and East Madhya Pradesh on July 7. The IMD also predicted that heavy to very heavy rainfall activity is likely to continue over Northwest India, the West Coast, and Northeast India over the next 6–7 days.

    (With inputs from ANI)

  • Delhi: Rain brings much-needed relief from humid weather

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Several parts of Delhi received rainfall on Monday morning, offering much-needed relief from the hot and humid conditions that had gripped the city over the past few days.

    Rain began early in the day, with low-hanging clouds blanketing the sky across the capital. The showers helped bring down temperatures and eased the persistent humidity.

    However, the downpour also led to waterlogging in several areas, including the Mehrauli-Badarpur Road, where vehicles were seen wading through waterlogged streets.

    “Whenever it rains, the roads get waterlogged for up to five kilometres,” said one stranded commuter.

    Amit, another commuter, added, “It’s very problematic. The roads get waterlogged in just an hour of rain. My car also got a puncture.”

    The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a yellow alert for Monday, warning of thunderstorms, lightning, and squalls across all districts of Delhi, including North, North-East, North-West, South, South-West, South-East, and West Delhi.

    As of now, no such alerts have been issued for the upcoming days.

    According to the IMD, the weather in Delhi is expected to remain normal, with a forecast of “generally cloudy skies, very light to light rain accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning” over the next two to three days. Parts of Delhi had also received rainfall on Sunday morning.

    The IMD reported that the monsoon trough at mean sea level currently passes through Suratgarh, Sirsa, Delhi, Lucknow, Varanasi, Daltonganj, Bankura, Digha, and then southeastwards to the northeast Bay of Bengal. Additionally, an upper-air cyclonic circulation lies over Himachal Pradesh and adjoining Punjab at 1.5 km above mean sea level.

    Heavy to very heavy rainfall, with isolated extremely heavy showers, is likely over Chhattisgarh, Vidarbha, and East Madhya Pradesh on July 7. The IMD also predicted that heavy to very heavy rainfall activity is likely to continue over Northwest India, the West Coast, and Northeast India over the next 6–7 days.

    (With inputs from ANI)

  • Delhi: Rain brings much-needed relief from humid weather

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Several parts of Delhi received rainfall on Monday morning, offering much-needed relief from the hot and humid conditions that had gripped the city over the past few days.

    Rain began early in the day, with low-hanging clouds blanketing the sky across the capital. The showers helped bring down temperatures and eased the persistent humidity.

    However, the downpour also led to waterlogging in several areas, including the Mehrauli-Badarpur Road, where vehicles were seen wading through waterlogged streets.

    “Whenever it rains, the roads get waterlogged for up to five kilometres,” said one stranded commuter.

    Amit, another commuter, added, “It’s very problematic. The roads get waterlogged in just an hour of rain. My car also got a puncture.”

    The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a yellow alert for Monday, warning of thunderstorms, lightning, and squalls across all districts of Delhi, including North, North-East, North-West, South, South-West, South-East, and West Delhi.

    As of now, no such alerts have been issued for the upcoming days.

    According to the IMD, the weather in Delhi is expected to remain normal, with a forecast of “generally cloudy skies, very light to light rain accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning” over the next two to three days. Parts of Delhi had also received rainfall on Sunday morning.

    The IMD reported that the monsoon trough at mean sea level currently passes through Suratgarh, Sirsa, Delhi, Lucknow, Varanasi, Daltonganj, Bankura, Digha, and then southeastwards to the northeast Bay of Bengal. Additionally, an upper-air cyclonic circulation lies over Himachal Pradesh and adjoining Punjab at 1.5 km above mean sea level.

    Heavy to very heavy rainfall, with isolated extremely heavy showers, is likely over Chhattisgarh, Vidarbha, and East Madhya Pradesh on July 7. The IMD also predicted that heavy to very heavy rainfall activity is likely to continue over Northwest India, the West Coast, and Northeast India over the next 6–7 days.

    (With inputs from ANI)

  • Delhi: Rain brings much-needed relief from humid weather

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Several parts of Delhi received rainfall on Monday morning, offering much-needed relief from the hot and humid conditions that had gripped the city over the past few days.

    Rain began early in the day, with low-hanging clouds blanketing the sky across the capital. The showers helped bring down temperatures and eased the persistent humidity.

    However, the downpour also led to waterlogging in several areas, including the Mehrauli-Badarpur Road, where vehicles were seen wading through waterlogged streets.

    “Whenever it rains, the roads get waterlogged for up to five kilometres,” said one stranded commuter.

    Amit, another commuter, added, “It’s very problematic. The roads get waterlogged in just an hour of rain. My car also got a puncture.”

    The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a yellow alert for Monday, warning of thunderstorms, lightning, and squalls across all districts of Delhi, including North, North-East, North-West, South, South-West, South-East, and West Delhi.

    As of now, no such alerts have been issued for the upcoming days.

    According to the IMD, the weather in Delhi is expected to remain normal, with a forecast of “generally cloudy skies, very light to light rain accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning” over the next two to three days. Parts of Delhi had also received rainfall on Sunday morning.

    The IMD reported that the monsoon trough at mean sea level currently passes through Suratgarh, Sirsa, Delhi, Lucknow, Varanasi, Daltonganj, Bankura, Digha, and then southeastwards to the northeast Bay of Bengal. Additionally, an upper-air cyclonic circulation lies over Himachal Pradesh and adjoining Punjab at 1.5 km above mean sea level.

    Heavy to very heavy rainfall, with isolated extremely heavy showers, is likely over Chhattisgarh, Vidarbha, and East Madhya Pradesh on July 7. The IMD also predicted that heavy to very heavy rainfall activity is likely to continue over Northwest India, the West Coast, and Northeast India over the next 6–7 days.

    (With inputs from ANI)

  • Delhi: Rain brings much-needed relief from humid weather

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Several parts of Delhi received rainfall on Monday morning, offering much-needed relief from the hot and humid conditions that had gripped the city over the past few days.

    Rain began early in the day, with low-hanging clouds blanketing the sky across the capital. The showers helped bring down temperatures and eased the persistent humidity.

    However, the downpour also led to waterlogging in several areas, including the Mehrauli-Badarpur Road, where vehicles were seen wading through waterlogged streets.

    “Whenever it rains, the roads get waterlogged for up to five kilometres,” said one stranded commuter.

    Amit, another commuter, added, “It’s very problematic. The roads get waterlogged in just an hour of rain. My car also got a puncture.”

    The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a yellow alert for Monday, warning of thunderstorms, lightning, and squalls across all districts of Delhi, including North, North-East, North-West, South, South-West, South-East, and West Delhi.

    As of now, no such alerts have been issued for the upcoming days.

    According to the IMD, the weather in Delhi is expected to remain normal, with a forecast of “generally cloudy skies, very light to light rain accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning” over the next two to three days. Parts of Delhi had also received rainfall on Sunday morning.

    The IMD reported that the monsoon trough at mean sea level currently passes through Suratgarh, Sirsa, Delhi, Lucknow, Varanasi, Daltonganj, Bankura, Digha, and then southeastwards to the northeast Bay of Bengal. Additionally, an upper-air cyclonic circulation lies over Himachal Pradesh and adjoining Punjab at 1.5 km above mean sea level.

    Heavy to very heavy rainfall, with isolated extremely heavy showers, is likely over Chhattisgarh, Vidarbha, and East Madhya Pradesh on July 7. The IMD also predicted that heavy to very heavy rainfall activity is likely to continue over Northwest India, the West Coast, and Northeast India over the next 6–7 days.

    (With inputs from ANI)

  • Delhi: Rain brings much-needed relief from humid weather

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Several parts of Delhi received rainfall on Monday morning, offering much-needed relief from the hot and humid conditions that had gripped the city over the past few days.

    Rain began early in the day, with low-hanging clouds blanketing the sky across the capital. The showers helped bring down temperatures and eased the persistent humidity.

    However, the downpour also led to waterlogging in several areas, including the Mehrauli-Badarpur Road, where vehicles were seen wading through waterlogged streets.

    “Whenever it rains, the roads get waterlogged for up to five kilometres,” said one stranded commuter.

    Amit, another commuter, added, “It’s very problematic. The roads get waterlogged in just an hour of rain. My car also got a puncture.”

    The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a yellow alert for Monday, warning of thunderstorms, lightning, and squalls across all districts of Delhi, including North, North-East, North-West, South, South-West, South-East, and West Delhi.

    As of now, no such alerts have been issued for the upcoming days.

    According to the IMD, the weather in Delhi is expected to remain normal, with a forecast of “generally cloudy skies, very light to light rain accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning” over the next two to three days. Parts of Delhi had also received rainfall on Sunday morning.

    The IMD reported that the monsoon trough at mean sea level currently passes through Suratgarh, Sirsa, Delhi, Lucknow, Varanasi, Daltonganj, Bankura, Digha, and then southeastwards to the northeast Bay of Bengal. Additionally, an upper-air cyclonic circulation lies over Himachal Pradesh and adjoining Punjab at 1.5 km above mean sea level.

    Heavy to very heavy rainfall, with isolated extremely heavy showers, is likely over Chhattisgarh, Vidarbha, and East Madhya Pradesh on July 7. The IMD also predicted that heavy to very heavy rainfall activity is likely to continue over Northwest India, the West Coast, and Northeast India over the next 6–7 days.

    (With inputs from ANI)

  • PM Modi urges responsible AI, stronger South-South ties at BRICS Summit

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday called for strengthening multilateralism, deepening economic cooperation, and ensuring responsible governance of Artificial Intelligence during his address at the BRICS Outreach Summit in Brazil.

    Addressing the session titled ‘Strengthening Multilateralism, Economic-Financial Matters, and Artificial Intelligence’, Prime Minister Modi thanked Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva for inviting him to share India’s views with partner countries from Latin America, Africa and Asia.

    “It is a great pleasure for me to participate in this meeting with my friends from the extended BRICS family. My heartfelt thanks to President Lula for giving me the opportunity to share my views with friendly countries of Latin America, Africa, and Asia in the BRICS Outreach Summit,” he said.

    Highlighting the increasing relevance of BRICS in a changing global order, the Prime Minister said, “Our confidence in the diversity and multipolarity of the BRICS Group is our greatest strength. Today, as the world order faces pressures from all sides and the world is going through many challenges and uncertainties, the increasing relevance and influence of BRICS is natural. We should together consider how BRICS can become a guide for the multipolar world in the times to come.”

    The Prime Minister put forward four key suggestions to strengthen BRICS cooperation.

    Firstly, he underlined that economic cooperation within BRICS is progressing steadily, with the BRICS Business Council and BRICS Women Business Alliance playing an important role. He welcomed Brazil’s emphasis on reforms in the International Financial System under its presidency.

    “In the form of BRICS New Development Bank, we have offered a strong and credible alternative to support the development aspirations of countries in the Global South. While approving projects, the NDB must focus on demand-driven approaches, long-term financial sustainability, and healthy credit rating. Strengthening our internal systems will further enhance the credibility of our call for reformed multilateralism,” he said.

    Secondly, the Prime Minister said that the countries of the Global South have special expectations from BRICS and the group should work together to meet them.

    “For instance, the BRICS Agricultural Research Platform, established in India, is a valuable initiative to enhance collaboration in agricultural research. It can become a medium for sharing research and best practices in topics such as agri-biotech, precision farming, and climate change adaptation. We can also extend its benefits to countries in the Global South,” he said.

    He also highlighted India’s ‘One Nation, One Subscription’ initiative to expand access to academic resources and proposed a collective BRICS Science and Research Repository for the benefit of the Global South.

    Thirdly, the Prime Minister called for cooperation to secure and strengthen supply chains for critical minerals and technologies. “It’s important to ensure that no country uses these resources for its own selfish gain or as a weapon against others,” he said.

    Fourth, speaking on Artificial Intelligence, the Prime Minister stressed the need for global standards for responsible and ethical use of AI.

    “In the 21st century, the progress and well-being of people largely depends on technology, especially Artificial Intelligence. On one hand, AI can greatly improve everyday life; while on the other hand, it also raises concerns about risks, ethics, and bias,” he noted.

    He added, “India’s approach and policy on this topic are clear: We see AI as a medium to enhance human values and potential. Working on the mantra of ‘AI for All’, today we’re widely and actively using AI in sectors like agriculture, health, education, governance in India.”

    He said equal focus must be given to addressing concerns and promoting innovation in AI governance. “Global standards must be created that can verify the authenticity of digital content, so that we can identify the source of the content and maintain transparency and prevent misuse,” he said, adding that the Leaders’ Statement on Global Governance of AI released at the meeting is a positive step in this direction.

    Prime Minister Modi announced that India will host the AI Impact Summit next year and invited all partner countries to participate. “We hope for your active participation to make this summit a great success,” he said.

    Reaffirming India’s commitment to the Global South, the Prime Minister said, “The Global South has many hopes from us. To fulfil them, we must follow the principle of ‘Lead by Example’. India is fully committed to working shoulder-to-shoulder with all our partners to achieve our common goals.”

  • PM Modi urges responsible AI, stronger South-South ties at BRICS Summit

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday called for strengthening multilateralism, deepening economic cooperation, and ensuring responsible governance of Artificial Intelligence during his address at the BRICS Outreach Summit in Brazil.

    Addressing the session titled ‘Strengthening Multilateralism, Economic-Financial Matters, and Artificial Intelligence’, Prime Minister Modi thanked Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva for inviting him to share India’s views with partner countries from Latin America, Africa and Asia.

    “It is a great pleasure for me to participate in this meeting with my friends from the extended BRICS family. My heartfelt thanks to President Lula for giving me the opportunity to share my views with friendly countries of Latin America, Africa, and Asia in the BRICS Outreach Summit,” he said.

    Highlighting the increasing relevance of BRICS in a changing global order, the Prime Minister said, “Our confidence in the diversity and multipolarity of the BRICS Group is our greatest strength. Today, as the world order faces pressures from all sides and the world is going through many challenges and uncertainties, the increasing relevance and influence of BRICS is natural. We should together consider how BRICS can become a guide for the multipolar world in the times to come.”

    The Prime Minister put forward four key suggestions to strengthen BRICS cooperation.

    Firstly, he underlined that economic cooperation within BRICS is progressing steadily, with the BRICS Business Council and BRICS Women Business Alliance playing an important role. He welcomed Brazil’s emphasis on reforms in the International Financial System under its presidency.

    “In the form of BRICS New Development Bank, we have offered a strong and credible alternative to support the development aspirations of countries in the Global South. While approving projects, the NDB must focus on demand-driven approaches, long-term financial sustainability, and healthy credit rating. Strengthening our internal systems will further enhance the credibility of our call for reformed multilateralism,” he said.

    Secondly, the Prime Minister said that the countries of the Global South have special expectations from BRICS and the group should work together to meet them.

    “For instance, the BRICS Agricultural Research Platform, established in India, is a valuable initiative to enhance collaboration in agricultural research. It can become a medium for sharing research and best practices in topics such as agri-biotech, precision farming, and climate change adaptation. We can also extend its benefits to countries in the Global South,” he said.

    He also highlighted India’s ‘One Nation, One Subscription’ initiative to expand access to academic resources and proposed a collective BRICS Science and Research Repository for the benefit of the Global South.

    Thirdly, the Prime Minister called for cooperation to secure and strengthen supply chains for critical minerals and technologies. “It’s important to ensure that no country uses these resources for its own selfish gain or as a weapon against others,” he said.

    Fourth, speaking on Artificial Intelligence, the Prime Minister stressed the need for global standards for responsible and ethical use of AI.

    “In the 21st century, the progress and well-being of people largely depends on technology, especially Artificial Intelligence. On one hand, AI can greatly improve everyday life; while on the other hand, it also raises concerns about risks, ethics, and bias,” he noted.

    He added, “India’s approach and policy on this topic are clear: We see AI as a medium to enhance human values and potential. Working on the mantra of ‘AI for All’, today we’re widely and actively using AI in sectors like agriculture, health, education, governance in India.”

    He said equal focus must be given to addressing concerns and promoting innovation in AI governance. “Global standards must be created that can verify the authenticity of digital content, so that we can identify the source of the content and maintain transparency and prevent misuse,” he said, adding that the Leaders’ Statement on Global Governance of AI released at the meeting is a positive step in this direction.

    Prime Minister Modi announced that India will host the AI Impact Summit next year and invited all partner countries to participate. “We hope for your active participation to make this summit a great success,” he said.

    Reaffirming India’s commitment to the Global South, the Prime Minister said, “The Global South has many hopes from us. To fulfil them, we must follow the principle of ‘Lead by Example’. India is fully committed to working shoulder-to-shoulder with all our partners to achieve our common goals.”

  • PM Modi urges responsible AI, stronger South-South ties at BRICS Summit

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday called for strengthening multilateralism, deepening economic cooperation, and ensuring responsible governance of Artificial Intelligence during his address at the BRICS Outreach Summit in Brazil.

    Addressing the session titled ‘Strengthening Multilateralism, Economic-Financial Matters, and Artificial Intelligence’, Prime Minister Modi thanked Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva for inviting him to share India’s views with partner countries from Latin America, Africa and Asia.

    “It is a great pleasure for me to participate in this meeting with my friends from the extended BRICS family. My heartfelt thanks to President Lula for giving me the opportunity to share my views with friendly countries of Latin America, Africa, and Asia in the BRICS Outreach Summit,” he said.

    Highlighting the increasing relevance of BRICS in a changing global order, the Prime Minister said, “Our confidence in the diversity and multipolarity of the BRICS Group is our greatest strength. Today, as the world order faces pressures from all sides and the world is going through many challenges and uncertainties, the increasing relevance and influence of BRICS is natural. We should together consider how BRICS can become a guide for the multipolar world in the times to come.”

    The Prime Minister put forward four key suggestions to strengthen BRICS cooperation.

    Firstly, he underlined that economic cooperation within BRICS is progressing steadily, with the BRICS Business Council and BRICS Women Business Alliance playing an important role. He welcomed Brazil’s emphasis on reforms in the International Financial System under its presidency.

    “In the form of BRICS New Development Bank, we have offered a strong and credible alternative to support the development aspirations of countries in the Global South. While approving projects, the NDB must focus on demand-driven approaches, long-term financial sustainability, and healthy credit rating. Strengthening our internal systems will further enhance the credibility of our call for reformed multilateralism,” he said.

    Secondly, the Prime Minister said that the countries of the Global South have special expectations from BRICS and the group should work together to meet them.

    “For instance, the BRICS Agricultural Research Platform, established in India, is a valuable initiative to enhance collaboration in agricultural research. It can become a medium for sharing research and best practices in topics such as agri-biotech, precision farming, and climate change adaptation. We can also extend its benefits to countries in the Global South,” he said.

    He also highlighted India’s ‘One Nation, One Subscription’ initiative to expand access to academic resources and proposed a collective BRICS Science and Research Repository for the benefit of the Global South.

    Thirdly, the Prime Minister called for cooperation to secure and strengthen supply chains for critical minerals and technologies. “It’s important to ensure that no country uses these resources for its own selfish gain or as a weapon against others,” he said.

    Fourth, speaking on Artificial Intelligence, the Prime Minister stressed the need for global standards for responsible and ethical use of AI.

    “In the 21st century, the progress and well-being of people largely depends on technology, especially Artificial Intelligence. On one hand, AI can greatly improve everyday life; while on the other hand, it also raises concerns about risks, ethics, and bias,” he noted.

    He added, “India’s approach and policy on this topic are clear: We see AI as a medium to enhance human values and potential. Working on the mantra of ‘AI for All’, today we’re widely and actively using AI in sectors like agriculture, health, education, governance in India.”

    He said equal focus must be given to addressing concerns and promoting innovation in AI governance. “Global standards must be created that can verify the authenticity of digital content, so that we can identify the source of the content and maintain transparency and prevent misuse,” he said, adding that the Leaders’ Statement on Global Governance of AI released at the meeting is a positive step in this direction.

    Prime Minister Modi announced that India will host the AI Impact Summit next year and invited all partner countries to participate. “We hope for your active participation to make this summit a great success,” he said.

    Reaffirming India’s commitment to the Global South, the Prime Minister said, “The Global South has many hopes from us. To fulfil them, we must follow the principle of ‘Lead by Example’. India is fully committed to working shoulder-to-shoulder with all our partners to achieve our common goals.”

  • PM Modi urges responsible AI, stronger South-South ties at BRICS Summit

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday called for strengthening multilateralism, deepening economic cooperation, and ensuring responsible governance of Artificial Intelligence during his address at the BRICS Outreach Summit in Brazil.

    Addressing the session titled ‘Strengthening Multilateralism, Economic-Financial Matters, and Artificial Intelligence’, Prime Minister Modi thanked Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva for inviting him to share India’s views with partner countries from Latin America, Africa and Asia.

    “It is a great pleasure for me to participate in this meeting with my friends from the extended BRICS family. My heartfelt thanks to President Lula for giving me the opportunity to share my views with friendly countries of Latin America, Africa, and Asia in the BRICS Outreach Summit,” he said.

    Highlighting the increasing relevance of BRICS in a changing global order, the Prime Minister said, “Our confidence in the diversity and multipolarity of the BRICS Group is our greatest strength. Today, as the world order faces pressures from all sides and the world is going through many challenges and uncertainties, the increasing relevance and influence of BRICS is natural. We should together consider how BRICS can become a guide for the multipolar world in the times to come.”

    The Prime Minister put forward four key suggestions to strengthen BRICS cooperation.

    Firstly, he underlined that economic cooperation within BRICS is progressing steadily, with the BRICS Business Council and BRICS Women Business Alliance playing an important role. He welcomed Brazil’s emphasis on reforms in the International Financial System under its presidency.

    “In the form of BRICS New Development Bank, we have offered a strong and credible alternative to support the development aspirations of countries in the Global South. While approving projects, the NDB must focus on demand-driven approaches, long-term financial sustainability, and healthy credit rating. Strengthening our internal systems will further enhance the credibility of our call for reformed multilateralism,” he said.

    Secondly, the Prime Minister said that the countries of the Global South have special expectations from BRICS and the group should work together to meet them.

    “For instance, the BRICS Agricultural Research Platform, established in India, is a valuable initiative to enhance collaboration in agricultural research. It can become a medium for sharing research and best practices in topics such as agri-biotech, precision farming, and climate change adaptation. We can also extend its benefits to countries in the Global South,” he said.

    He also highlighted India’s ‘One Nation, One Subscription’ initiative to expand access to academic resources and proposed a collective BRICS Science and Research Repository for the benefit of the Global South.

    Thirdly, the Prime Minister called for cooperation to secure and strengthen supply chains for critical minerals and technologies. “It’s important to ensure that no country uses these resources for its own selfish gain or as a weapon against others,” he said.

    Fourth, speaking on Artificial Intelligence, the Prime Minister stressed the need for global standards for responsible and ethical use of AI.

    “In the 21st century, the progress and well-being of people largely depends on technology, especially Artificial Intelligence. On one hand, AI can greatly improve everyday life; while on the other hand, it also raises concerns about risks, ethics, and bias,” he noted.

    He added, “India’s approach and policy on this topic are clear: We see AI as a medium to enhance human values and potential. Working on the mantra of ‘AI for All’, today we’re widely and actively using AI in sectors like agriculture, health, education, governance in India.”

    He said equal focus must be given to addressing concerns and promoting innovation in AI governance. “Global standards must be created that can verify the authenticity of digital content, so that we can identify the source of the content and maintain transparency and prevent misuse,” he said, adding that the Leaders’ Statement on Global Governance of AI released at the meeting is a positive step in this direction.

    Prime Minister Modi announced that India will host the AI Impact Summit next year and invited all partner countries to participate. “We hope for your active participation to make this summit a great success,” he said.

    Reaffirming India’s commitment to the Global South, the Prime Minister said, “The Global South has many hopes from us. To fulfil them, we must follow the principle of ‘Lead by Example’. India is fully committed to working shoulder-to-shoulder with all our partners to achieve our common goals.”

  • PM Modi urges responsible AI, stronger South-South ties at BRICS Summit

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday called for strengthening multilateralism, deepening economic cooperation, and ensuring responsible governance of Artificial Intelligence during his address at the BRICS Outreach Summit in Brazil.

    Addressing the session titled ‘Strengthening Multilateralism, Economic-Financial Matters, and Artificial Intelligence’, Prime Minister Modi thanked Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva for inviting him to share India’s views with partner countries from Latin America, Africa and Asia.

    “It is a great pleasure for me to participate in this meeting with my friends from the extended BRICS family. My heartfelt thanks to President Lula for giving me the opportunity to share my views with friendly countries of Latin America, Africa, and Asia in the BRICS Outreach Summit,” he said.

    Highlighting the increasing relevance of BRICS in a changing global order, the Prime Minister said, “Our confidence in the diversity and multipolarity of the BRICS Group is our greatest strength. Today, as the world order faces pressures from all sides and the world is going through many challenges and uncertainties, the increasing relevance and influence of BRICS is natural. We should together consider how BRICS can become a guide for the multipolar world in the times to come.”

    The Prime Minister put forward four key suggestions to strengthen BRICS cooperation.

    Firstly, he underlined that economic cooperation within BRICS is progressing steadily, with the BRICS Business Council and BRICS Women Business Alliance playing an important role. He welcomed Brazil’s emphasis on reforms in the International Financial System under its presidency.

    “In the form of BRICS New Development Bank, we have offered a strong and credible alternative to support the development aspirations of countries in the Global South. While approving projects, the NDB must focus on demand-driven approaches, long-term financial sustainability, and healthy credit rating. Strengthening our internal systems will further enhance the credibility of our call for reformed multilateralism,” he said.

    Secondly, the Prime Minister said that the countries of the Global South have special expectations from BRICS and the group should work together to meet them.

    “For instance, the BRICS Agricultural Research Platform, established in India, is a valuable initiative to enhance collaboration in agricultural research. It can become a medium for sharing research and best practices in topics such as agri-biotech, precision farming, and climate change adaptation. We can also extend its benefits to countries in the Global South,” he said.

    He also highlighted India’s ‘One Nation, One Subscription’ initiative to expand access to academic resources and proposed a collective BRICS Science and Research Repository for the benefit of the Global South.

    Thirdly, the Prime Minister called for cooperation to secure and strengthen supply chains for critical minerals and technologies. “It’s important to ensure that no country uses these resources for its own selfish gain or as a weapon against others,” he said.

    Fourth, speaking on Artificial Intelligence, the Prime Minister stressed the need for global standards for responsible and ethical use of AI.

    “In the 21st century, the progress and well-being of people largely depends on technology, especially Artificial Intelligence. On one hand, AI can greatly improve everyday life; while on the other hand, it also raises concerns about risks, ethics, and bias,” he noted.

    He added, “India’s approach and policy on this topic are clear: We see AI as a medium to enhance human values and potential. Working on the mantra of ‘AI for All’, today we’re widely and actively using AI in sectors like agriculture, health, education, governance in India.”

    He said equal focus must be given to addressing concerns and promoting innovation in AI governance. “Global standards must be created that can verify the authenticity of digital content, so that we can identify the source of the content and maintain transparency and prevent misuse,” he said, adding that the Leaders’ Statement on Global Governance of AI released at the meeting is a positive step in this direction.

    Prime Minister Modi announced that India will host the AI Impact Summit next year and invited all partner countries to participate. “We hope for your active participation to make this summit a great success,” he said.

    Reaffirming India’s commitment to the Global South, the Prime Minister said, “The Global South has many hopes from us. To fulfil them, we must follow the principle of ‘Lead by Example’. India is fully committed to working shoulder-to-shoulder with all our partners to achieve our common goals.”

  • PM Modi urges responsible AI, stronger South-South ties at BRICS Summit

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday called for strengthening multilateralism, deepening economic cooperation, and ensuring responsible governance of Artificial Intelligence during his address at the BRICS Outreach Summit in Brazil.

    Addressing the session titled ‘Strengthening Multilateralism, Economic-Financial Matters, and Artificial Intelligence’, Prime Minister Modi thanked Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva for inviting him to share India’s views with partner countries from Latin America, Africa and Asia.

    “It is a great pleasure for me to participate in this meeting with my friends from the extended BRICS family. My heartfelt thanks to President Lula for giving me the opportunity to share my views with friendly countries of Latin America, Africa, and Asia in the BRICS Outreach Summit,” he said.

    Highlighting the increasing relevance of BRICS in a changing global order, the Prime Minister said, “Our confidence in the diversity and multipolarity of the BRICS Group is our greatest strength. Today, as the world order faces pressures from all sides and the world is going through many challenges and uncertainties, the increasing relevance and influence of BRICS is natural. We should together consider how BRICS can become a guide for the multipolar world in the times to come.”

    The Prime Minister put forward four key suggestions to strengthen BRICS cooperation.

    Firstly, he underlined that economic cooperation within BRICS is progressing steadily, with the BRICS Business Council and BRICS Women Business Alliance playing an important role. He welcomed Brazil’s emphasis on reforms in the International Financial System under its presidency.

    “In the form of BRICS New Development Bank, we have offered a strong and credible alternative to support the development aspirations of countries in the Global South. While approving projects, the NDB must focus on demand-driven approaches, long-term financial sustainability, and healthy credit rating. Strengthening our internal systems will further enhance the credibility of our call for reformed multilateralism,” he said.

    Secondly, the Prime Minister said that the countries of the Global South have special expectations from BRICS and the group should work together to meet them.

    “For instance, the BRICS Agricultural Research Platform, established in India, is a valuable initiative to enhance collaboration in agricultural research. It can become a medium for sharing research and best practices in topics such as agri-biotech, precision farming, and climate change adaptation. We can also extend its benefits to countries in the Global South,” he said.

    He also highlighted India’s ‘One Nation, One Subscription’ initiative to expand access to academic resources and proposed a collective BRICS Science and Research Repository for the benefit of the Global South.

    Thirdly, the Prime Minister called for cooperation to secure and strengthen supply chains for critical minerals and technologies. “It’s important to ensure that no country uses these resources for its own selfish gain or as a weapon against others,” he said.

    Fourth, speaking on Artificial Intelligence, the Prime Minister stressed the need for global standards for responsible and ethical use of AI.

    “In the 21st century, the progress and well-being of people largely depends on technology, especially Artificial Intelligence. On one hand, AI can greatly improve everyday life; while on the other hand, it also raises concerns about risks, ethics, and bias,” he noted.

    He added, “India’s approach and policy on this topic are clear: We see AI as a medium to enhance human values and potential. Working on the mantra of ‘AI for All’, today we’re widely and actively using AI in sectors like agriculture, health, education, governance in India.”

    He said equal focus must be given to addressing concerns and promoting innovation in AI governance. “Global standards must be created that can verify the authenticity of digital content, so that we can identify the source of the content and maintain transparency and prevent misuse,” he said, adding that the Leaders’ Statement on Global Governance of AI released at the meeting is a positive step in this direction.

    Prime Minister Modi announced that India will host the AI Impact Summit next year and invited all partner countries to participate. “We hope for your active participation to make this summit a great success,” he said.

    Reaffirming India’s commitment to the Global South, the Prime Minister said, “The Global South has many hopes from us. To fulfil them, we must follow the principle of ‘Lead by Example’. India is fully committed to working shoulder-to-shoulder with all our partners to achieve our common goals.”

  • Nearly 70,000 devotees perform Amarnath Yatra in first four days; 8,605 more join today

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Nearly 70,000 pilgrims have undertaken the annual Amarnath Yatra in the first four days since it began on July 3, officials confirmed on Monday. Of these, 21,512 devotees had Darshan at the holy cave shrine on Sunday alone, marking a strong turnout for one of Hinduism’s most sacred pilgrimages.

    Early Monday morning, another batch of 8,605 pilgrims departed from the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu in two escorted convoys bound for the base camps in Kashmir Valley. According to officials, the first convoy comprising 3,486 pilgrims is en route to the Baltal base camp in north Kashmir, while the second convoy, carrying 5,119 Yatris, is heading toward the Nunwan base camp in Pahalgam.

    The Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB), which manages the pilgrimage, said thousands of pilgrims are also arriving directly at the Baltal and Nunwan base camps to register on the spot and join the Yatra. Officials confirmed that two pilgrims have died of natural causes since the Yatra began.

    This year’s pilgrimage is taking place under tight security arrangements, especially in the wake of the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, where 26 civilians were killed by Pakistan-backed terrorists. In response, authorities have deployed an additional 180 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) to reinforce the presence of the Army, CRPF, BSF, SSB, and local police.

    The entire Yatra route, including all transit camps and pilgrim accommodations, has been placed under multi-tiered security cover. The pilgrimage starts at Jammu’s Bhagwati Nagar and proceeds toward the two base camps, eventually leading up to the holy cave shrine located at 3,888 meters in the Himalayas.

    Amid the tense security environment, local residents in Kashmir have come out in full support of the Yatra, continuing a long-standing tradition of hospitality. As the first batch of pilgrims entered the Valley through Qazigund, they were warmly greeted by Kashmiris holding garlands and placards—a symbolic response to the recent acts of terror. On Sunday, locals offered cold drinks and drinking water to pilgrims returning from the Baltal camp. Many Yatris expressed heartfelt gratitude for the love and support shown by the local population.

    The 2025 Amarnath Yatra will continue for 38 days, concluding on August 9, coinciding with Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan. Pilgrims undertake the journey via two traditional routes: the 46-kilometre trek from Pahalgam, passing through Chandanwari, Sheshnag, and Panchtarni, and the shorter 14-kilometre Baltal route, which allows for a same-day return after Darshan.

    This year, helicopter services have been suspended due to security reasons, making the Yatra a wholly ground-based journey.

    At the heart of the Yatra lies the sacred Amarnath cave shrine, which houses a naturally forming ice stalagmite, believed by devotees to represent Lord Shiva. The structure is said to wax and wane with the lunar cycle and symbolizes divine presence.

    (With agencies inputs)

  • Nearly 70,000 devotees perform Amarnath Yatra in first four days; 8,605 more join today

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Nearly 70,000 pilgrims have undertaken the annual Amarnath Yatra in the first four days since it began on July 3, officials confirmed on Monday. Of these, 21,512 devotees had Darshan at the holy cave shrine on Sunday alone, marking a strong turnout for one of Hinduism’s most sacred pilgrimages.

    Early Monday morning, another batch of 8,605 pilgrims departed from the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu in two escorted convoys bound for the base camps in Kashmir Valley. According to officials, the first convoy comprising 3,486 pilgrims is en route to the Baltal base camp in north Kashmir, while the second convoy, carrying 5,119 Yatris, is heading toward the Nunwan base camp in Pahalgam.

    The Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB), which manages the pilgrimage, said thousands of pilgrims are also arriving directly at the Baltal and Nunwan base camps to register on the spot and join the Yatra. Officials confirmed that two pilgrims have died of natural causes since the Yatra began.

    This year’s pilgrimage is taking place under tight security arrangements, especially in the wake of the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, where 26 civilians were killed by Pakistan-backed terrorists. In response, authorities have deployed an additional 180 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) to reinforce the presence of the Army, CRPF, BSF, SSB, and local police.

    The entire Yatra route, including all transit camps and pilgrim accommodations, has been placed under multi-tiered security cover. The pilgrimage starts at Jammu’s Bhagwati Nagar and proceeds toward the two base camps, eventually leading up to the holy cave shrine located at 3,888 meters in the Himalayas.

    Amid the tense security environment, local residents in Kashmir have come out in full support of the Yatra, continuing a long-standing tradition of hospitality. As the first batch of pilgrims entered the Valley through Qazigund, they were warmly greeted by Kashmiris holding garlands and placards—a symbolic response to the recent acts of terror. On Sunday, locals offered cold drinks and drinking water to pilgrims returning from the Baltal camp. Many Yatris expressed heartfelt gratitude for the love and support shown by the local population.

    The 2025 Amarnath Yatra will continue for 38 days, concluding on August 9, coinciding with Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan. Pilgrims undertake the journey via two traditional routes: the 46-kilometre trek from Pahalgam, passing through Chandanwari, Sheshnag, and Panchtarni, and the shorter 14-kilometre Baltal route, which allows for a same-day return after Darshan.

    This year, helicopter services have been suspended due to security reasons, making the Yatra a wholly ground-based journey.

    At the heart of the Yatra lies the sacred Amarnath cave shrine, which houses a naturally forming ice stalagmite, believed by devotees to represent Lord Shiva. The structure is said to wax and wane with the lunar cycle and symbolizes divine presence.

    (With agencies inputs)