The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Thursday said that Delhi is expected to experience generally cloudy skies with spells of rain and thunderstorms over the next four days, providing some relief from the heat.
According to the IMD, the national capital will see very light to light rain or thunderstorms on June 19 evening/night, accompanied by gusty winds reaching up to 50 kmph. The maximum temperature is likely to remain between 34°C and 36°C, around 2 to 4 degrees below normal.
On June 20, similar conditions will persist with light rain or thunderstorms expected in the afternoon/evening. Temperatures will range from 27°C to 29°C for the minimum and 36°C to 38°C for the maximum, with the latter staying slightly below normal.
June 21, which also marks International Yoga Day, will witness light to moderate rainfall with gusty winds. Maximum temperatures are expected to be between 35°C and 37°C, while minimums may dip to 26°C to 28°C.
The wet spell is expected to continue on June 22, with light to moderate rain and thunderstorms likely. Daytime temperatures are predicted to range between 34°C and 36°C, with winds shifting direction throughout the day.
The IMD has advised residents to stay alert during thunderstorm activity and follow safety precautions as monsoon conditions continue to strengthen across northern India.
2. Negotiations ahead of Parliament’s first reading (Rule 72) (action taken)
The decision of the LIBE Committee to enter into interinstitutional negotiations had been announced on 16 June 2025 (minutes of 16.6.2025, item 12).
As no request for a vote pursuant to Rule 72(2) had been made, the committee responsible had been able to enter into negotiations upon expiry of the deadline.
3. Upcoming NATO summit on 24-26 June 2025 (debate)
Commission statement: Upcoming NATO summit on 24-26 June 2025 (2025/2748(RSP))
The President provided some clarifications on the arrangements for the conduct of the debate, for which a test format was to be used.
Kaja Kallas (Vice President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy) made the statement.
The following spoke: Nicolás Pascual de la Parte, on behalf of the PPE Group, Yannis Maniatis, on behalf of the S&D Group, Harald Vilimsky, on behalf of the PfE Group, Alexandr Vondra, on behalf of the ECR Group, Valérie Hayer, on behalf of the Renew Group, Bas Eickhout, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Marc Botenga, on behalf of The Left Group, René Aust, on behalf of the ESN Group, Michael Gahler, Sven Mikser, Jean-Paul Garraud, Adam Bielan, Dan Barna, Mārtiņš Staķis, Özlem Demirel, Milan Uhrík, Ruth Firmenich, Ingeborg Ter Laak and Eero Heinäluoma.
IN THE CHAIR: Sabine VERHEYEN Vice-President
The following spoke: Anna Bryłka, Rasa Juknevičienė, Bert-Jan Ruissen, Petras Auštrevičius, Sebastião Bugalho, Hannah Neumann, Merja Kyllönen, Pekka Toveri, Elio Di Rupo, Roberto Vannacci, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Wouter Beke, Dan Nica, Hans Neuhoff, Ioan-Rareş Bogdan, Branislav Ondruš, who also answered a blue-card question from Maria Grapini, Riho Terras, Tobias Cremer, Jaak Madison, Markéta Gregorová, Michał Szczerba, Marina Mesure, Sarah Knafo, Ondřej Dostál, Angelika Niebler, who also declined to take a blue-card question from Özlem Demirel, Tonino Picula, Pierre-Romain Thionnet, Stephen Nikola Bartulica, Massimiliano Salini, Evin Incir, Lucia Yar, Mika Aaltola, Giorgos Georgiou, Davor Ivo Stier, Vilija Blinkevičiūtė, Georgiana Teodorescu, Reinier Van Lanschot, Željana Zovko, Rihards Kols, Irene Montero, Eszter Lakos, Petar Volgin and Juan Ignacio Zoido Álvarez.
IN THE CHAIR: Javi LÓPEZ Vice-President
The following spoke: José Cepeda, Petra Steger, who also declined to take a blue-card question from Marta Wcisło, Jüri Ratas, Loucas Fourlas, Niels Fuglsang, Engin Eroglu, Miriam Lexmann, Kathleen Funchion, Ana Miguel Pedro, who also answered a blue-card question from João Oliveira, Francisco Assis, Matej Tonin, Johan Van Overtveldt, Anders Vistisen, Marta Wcisło, Ville Niinistö, Sandra Kalniete and Danilo Della Valle.
The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Hélder Sousa Silva, Maria Grapini, João Oliveira, Petras Gražulis, Lukas Sieper, Vytenis Povilas Andriukaitis, Lefteris Nikolaou-Alavanos and Juan Fernando López Aguilar.
The following spoke: Kaja Kallas.
The debate closed.
(The sitting was suspended at 11:43.)
IN THE CHAIR: Roberta METSOLA President
4. Resumption of the sitting
The sitting resumed at 12:00.
5. Voting time
For detailed results of the votes, see also ‘Results of votes’ and ‘Results of roll-call votes’.
5.1. Macro-financial assistance to Egypt ***I (vote)
Report on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on providing macro-financial assistance to the Arab Republic of Egypt [COM(2024)0461 – C10-0009/2024 – 2024/0071(COD)] – Committee on International Trade. Rapporteur: Céline Imart (A10-0037/2025)
An initial vote had been held on 1 April 2025 and the matter had been referred back to the committee responsible for interinstitutional negotiations under Rule 60(4) (minutes of 1.4.2025, item 6.11).
(Majority of the votes cast)
REQUEST FROM THE LEFT GROUP TO PROCEED WITH A VOTE ON THE AMENDMENTS (Rule 60(3))
Rejected
PROVISIONAL AGREEMENT
Adopted(P10_TA(2025)125)
Parliament’s first reading thus closed.
Detailed voting results
5.2. Adoption by the Union of the Agreement on the interpretation and application of the Energy Charter Treaty ***I (vote)
Report on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on the adoption by the Union of the Agreement on the interpretation and application of the Energy Charter Treaty between the European Union, the European Atomic Energy Community and their Member States [COM(2024)0257 – C10-0058/2024 – 2024/0148(COD)] – Committee on International Trade – Committee on Industry, Research and Energy. Rapporteurs: Anna Cavazzini and Borys Budka (A10-0009/2025)
(Majority of the votes cast)
COMMISSION PROPOSAL and AMENDMENTS
Approved(P10_TA(2025)126)
Parliament’s first reading thus closed.
Detailed voting results
2
The following had spoken:
Anna Cavazzini (rapporteur), before the vote, to make a statement on the basis of Rule 165(4).
5.3. EU/Euratom Agreement on the interpretation and application of the Energy Charter Treaty: adoption by Euratom * (vote)
Report on the Proposal for a Council decision on the adoption by the European Atomic Energy Community of the Agreement on the interpretation and application of the Energy Charter Treaty between the European Union, the European Atomic Energy Community and their Member States [COM(2024)0256 – C10-0092/2024 – 2024/0146(NLE)] – Committee on Industry, Research and Energy. Rapporteur: Borys Budka (A10-0008/2025)
(Majority of the votes cast)
COMMISSION PROPOSAL TO THE COUNCIL
Approved by single vote (P10_TA(2025)127)
Detailed voting results
5.4. Implementation report on the Recovery and Resilience Facility(vote)
Report on the implementation of the Recovery and Resilience Facility [2024/2085(INI)] – Committee on Budgets – Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs. Rapporteurs: Victor Negrescu and Siegfried Mureşan (A10-0098/2025)
The debate had taken place on 17 June 2025 (minutes of 17.6.2025, item 10).
(Majority of the votes cast)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION
Adopted (P10_TA(2025)128)
Detailed voting results
5.5. The Commission’s 2024 Rule of Law report(vote)
Report on The Commission’s 2024 Rule of Law report [2024/2078(INI)] – Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs. Rapporteur: Ana Catarina Mendes (A10-0100/2025)
The debate had taken place on 17 June 2025 (minutes of 17.6.2025, item 11).
(Majority of the votes cast)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION
Adopted (P10_TA(2025)129)
Detailed voting results
5.6. 2023 and 2024 reports on Montenegro(vote)
Report on the 2023 and 2024 Commission reports on Montenegro [2025/2020(INI)] – Committee on Foreign Affairs. Rapporteur: Marjan Šarec (A10-0093/2025)
The debate had taken place on 17 June 2025 (minutes of 17.6.2025, item 12).
(Majority of the votes cast)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION
Adopted (P10_TA(2025)130)
Detailed voting results
5.7. 2023 and 2024 reports on Moldova(vote)
Report on 2023 and 2024 Commission reports on Moldova [2025/2025(INI)] – Committee on Foreign Affairs. Rapporteur: Sven Mikser (A10-0096/2025)
The debate had taken place on 17 June 2025 (minutes of 17.6.2025, item 13).
(Majority of the votes cast)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION
Adopted (P10_TA(2025)131)
Detailed voting results
7
(The sitting was suspended for a few moments.)
IN THE CHAIR: Christel SCHALDEMOSE Vice-President
6. Resumption of the sitting
The sitting resumed at 12:35.
7. Approval of the minutes of the previous sitting
The minutes of the previous sitting were approved.
8. Stopping the genocide in Gaza: time for EU sanctions (topical debate)
The following spoke: Manon Aubry to open the debate proposed by the The Left Group.
The following spoke: Kaja Kallas (Vice President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy).
The following spoke: Hildegard Bentele, on behalf of the PPE Group, Nacho Sánchez Amor, on behalf of the S&D Group, Juan Carlos Girauta Vidal, on behalf of the PfE Group (the President noted that some comments needed to be checked), Sebastian Tynkkynen, on behalf of the ECR Group, Hilde Vautmans, on behalf of the Renew Group, Tineke Strik, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Hanna Gedin, on behalf of The Left Group, Marc Jongen, on behalf of the ESN Group, Seán Kelly, Evin Incir, Beatrice Timgren, Barry Andrews, Jaume Asens Llodrà, Nikos Pappas, Kateřina Konečná, Matjaž Nemec, Christophe Bay, Kristoffer Storm, Ilhan Kyuchyuk, Ana Miranda Paz, Isabel Serra Sánchez, Ruth Firmenich, Francisco Assis, Abir Al-Sahlani, Ignazio Roberto Marino, Per Clausen, Cecilia Strada, Irena Joveva, Ville Niinistö, Özlem Demirel, Alex Agius Saliba, Lucia Yar, Giorgos Georgiou, Elio Di Rupo, Billy Kelleher, Estrella Galán, Ciaran Mullooly, Mimmo Lucano, Pernando Barrena Arza and Jussi Saramo (once the checks had been carried out, the President provided some clarifications).
The following spoke: Kaja Kallas.
The debate closed.
9. Freedom of assembly in Hungary and the need for the Commission to act (debate)
Commission statement: Freedom of assembly in Hungary and the need for the Commission to act (2025/2758(RSP))
Michael McGrath (Member of the Commission) made the statement.
The following spoke: Tomas Tobé, on behalf of the PPE Group, Iratxe García Pérez, on behalf of the S&D Group, Kinga Gál, on behalf of the PfE Group, Paolo Inselvini, on behalf of the ECR Group, Fabienne Keller, on behalf of the Renew Group, Terry Reintke, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Konstantinos Arvanitis, on behalf of The Left Group, Zsuzsanna Borvendég, on behalf of the ESN Group, Michał Wawrykiewicz, Klára Dobrev, Harald Vilimsky, who also declined to take a blue-card question from Nicolae Ştefănuță, Nicolas Bay, who also answered a blue-card question from Mélissa Camara, Dainius Žalimas, who also answered a blue-card question from Lukas Sieper, Tineke Strik, Ilaria Salis, who also declined to take a blue-card question, Christine Anderson, who also declined to take a blue-card question, Judita Laššáková, Maria Walsh, Ana Catarina Mendes and Hermann Tertsch.
IN THE CHAIR: Martin HOJSÍK Vice-President
The following spoke: Arkadiusz Mularczyk, who also answered a blue-card question from Lukas Sieper, Moritz Körner, Mélissa Camara, who also answered a blue-card question from Jacek Ozdoba, Carolina Morace, Milan Mazurek, Diana Iovanovici Şoşoacă, Arba Kokalari, Marc Angel, Paolo Borchia, Jacek Ozdoba, Raquel García Hermida-Van Der Walle, Daniel Freund (the President reminded him of the rules on conduct), Li Andersson, Tomasz Froelich, Lukas Sieper, Mirosława Nykiel, Alessandro Zan, Jorge Buxadé Villalba, Tobiasz Bocheński, who also answered a blue-card question from Raquel García Hermida-Van Der Walle, Kim Van Sparrentak, Lena Düpont, Krzysztof Śmiszek, András László, who also answered a blue-card question from Michał Wawrykiewicz, Rasmus Nordqvist, who also answered a blue-card question from Tomasz Froelich, Evin Incir, Juan Fernando López Aguilar and Chloé Ridel.
The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Sebastian Tynkkynen and Alexander Jungbluth.
The following spoke: Michael McGrath.
The debate closed.
10. Safeguarding the rule of law in Spain, ensuring an independent and autonomous prosecutor’s office to fight crime and corruption (debate)
Commission statement: Safeguarding the rule of law in Spain, ensuring an independent and autonomous prosecutor’s office to fight crime and corruption (2025/2759(RSP))
Michael McGrath (Member of the Commission) made the statement.
The following spoke: Tomas Tobé, on behalf of the PPE Group, Javier Moreno Sánchez, on behalf of the S&D Group, Jorge Buxadé Villalba, on behalf of the PfE Group, Diego Solier, on behalf of the ECR Group, Oihane Agirregoitia Martínez, on behalf of the Renew Group, Diana Riba i Giner, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Isabel Serra Sánchez, on behalf of The Left Group, Dolors Montserrat, Evelyn Regner, who also declined to take a blue-card question from Enikő Győri, Hermann Tertsch, Nora Junco García, João Cotrim De Figueiredo, Jaume Asens Llodrà, Lena Düpont, Francisco Assis, Petra Steger, Siegfried Mureşan, who also answered a blue-card question from Maria Grapini, and Sandro Ruotolo.
IN THE CHAIR: Younous OMARJEE Vice-President
The following spoke: Enikő Győri, who also answered a blue-card question from Gabriella Gerzsenyi, Michał Wawrykiewicz, who also answered a blue-card question from Nicolás González Casares, Evin Incir, who also declined to take a blue-card question from François-Xavier Bellamy, Csaba Dömötör, Sebastião Bugalho, Juan Fernando López Aguilar, who also declined to take a blue-card question from François-Xavier Bellamy, Fabrice Leggeri, François-Xavier Bellamy to raise a point of order (the President cut off the speaker as his remarks did not constitute a point of order), Juan Ignacio Zoido Álvarez, Juan Carlos Girauta Vidal, who also accepted a blue-card question from François-Xavier Bellamy (the President cut him off and made some clarifications on the blue-card procedure), David Casa, Ana Miguel Pedro, Dirk Gotink, Andrey Kovatchev and Javier Zarzalejos.
The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: José Cepeda, András László, Sebastian Tynkkynen and Lukas Sieper.
The following spoke: Michael McGrath.
The debate closed.
11. Clean Industrial Deal (debate)
Question for oral answer O-000020/2025 by Tom Berendsen, on behalf of the ITRE Committee to the Commission: Clean Industrial Deal (B10-0006/2025) (2025/2656(RSP))
Tom Berendsen moved the question.
Stéphane Séjourné (Executive Vice-President of the Commission) answered the question.
The following spoke: Angelika Winzig, on behalf of the PPE Group, Nicolás González Casares, on behalf of the S&D Group, Paolo Borchia, on behalf of the PfE Group, Daniel Obajtek, on behalf of the ECR Group, Christophe Grudler, on behalf of the Renew Group, Sara Matthieu, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Per Clausen, on behalf of The Left Group, and Anja Arndt, on behalf of the ESN Group.
The following spoke: Stéphane Séjourné.
Motions for resolutions tabled under Rule 142(5) to wind up the debate: minutes of 19.6.2025, item I.
The debate closed.
Vote: 19 June 2025.
12. Electricity grids: the backbone of the EU energy system (debate)
Report on electricity grids: the backbone of the EU energy system [2025/2006(INI)] – Committee on Industry, Research and Energy. Rapporteur: Anna Stürgkh (A10-0091/2025)
Anna Stürgkh introduced the report.
The following spoke: Ekaterina Zaharieva (Member of the Commission).
The following spoke: Seán Kelly, on behalf of the PPE Group, Bruno Tobback, on behalf of the S&D Group, András Gyürk, on behalf of the PfE Group, Ondřej Krutílek, on behalf of the ECR Group, Christophe Grudler, on behalf of the Renew Group, Kira Marie Peter-Hansen, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Dario Tamburrano, on behalf of The Left Group, Sarah Knafo, on behalf of the ESN Group, Angelika Winzig, Mohammed Chahim, Aleksandar Nikolic, Diego Solier, João Cotrim De Figueiredo, Jutta Paulus, Markus Buchheit, who also answered a blue-card question from Jutta Paulus, Fernand Kartheiser, Paulo Cunha, Tsvetelina Penkova, Isabella Tovaglieri, who also declined to take a blue-card question from Dario Nardella, Mariateresa Vivaldini, Barry Andrews, Benedetta Scuderi, Marcin Sypniewski, who also answered a blue-card question from Stine Bosse, Fidias Panayiotou, Mirosława Nykiel, Yannis Maniatis and Julie Rechagneux.
IN THE CHAIR: Antonella SBERNA Vice-President
The following spoke: Ivars Ijabs, Michael Bloss, Andrea Wechsler, Dario Nardella, Mireia Borrás Pabón, Marion Maréchal, Bart Groothuis, Virgil-Daniel Popescu, Jens Geier, Nikola Bartůšek, Beatrice Timgren, Wouter Beke, Nicolás González Casares, who also answered blue-card questions from João Oliveira and Mireia Borrás Pabón, Gilles Pennelle, Hildegard Bentele, who also answered a blue-card question from Lukas Sieper, Sofie Eriksson, Niels Flemming Hansen, Jüri Ratas, Michał Szczerba, Dimitris Tsiodras, Krzysztof Hetman, Andreas Schwab, Regina Doherty and Tomislav Sokol.
The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Vytenis Povilas Andriukaitis, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Billy Kelleher, João Oliveira, Maria Zacharia and Lukas Sieper.
The following spoke: Ekaterina Zaharieva and Anna Stürgkh.
The debate closed.
Vote: 19 June 2025.
13. Composition of committees and delegations
The ECR Group had notified the President of the following decision changing the composition of the committees and delegations:
– ITRE Committee: Anna Zalewska
The decision took effect as of that day.
14. Rise in violence and the deepening humanitarian crisis in South Sudan (debate)
Commission statement: Rise in violence and the deepening humanitarian crisis in South Sudan (2025/2751(RSP))
Ekaterina Zaharieva (Member of the Commission) made the statement.
The following spoke: Michael Gahler, on behalf of the PPE Group, Marit Maij, on behalf of the S&D Group, György Hölvényi, on behalf of the PfE Group, Adam Bielan, on behalf of the ECR Group, Jan-Christoph Oetjen, on behalf of the Renew Group, Erik Marquardt, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Özlem Demirel, on behalf of The Left Group, Ingeborg Ter Laak, Francisco Assis, Barry Andrews, Murielle Laurent and Leire Pajín.
The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Alessandra Moretti, Nikos Papandreou and Sebastian Tynkkynen.
The following spoke: Ekaterina Zaharieva.
IN THE CHAIR: Roberts ZĪLE Vice-President
The debate closed.
15. Debate on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law (debate)
(For the titles and authors of the motions for resolutions, see minutes of 18.6.2025, item I.)
15.1. Media freedom in Georgia, particularly the case of Mzia Amaglobeli
Motions for resolutions B10-0282/2025, B10-0283/2025, B10-0287/2025, B10-0288/2025, B10-0289/2025, B10-0290/2025 and B10-0295/2025 (2025/2752(RSP))
Rasa Juknevičienė, Tobias Cremer, Małgorzata Gosiewska, Dainius Žalimas, Lena Schilling, Danilo Della Valle and Petr Bystron introduced their groups’ motions for resolutions.
The following spoke: Liudas Mažylis, on behalf of the PPE Group, Nacho Sánchez Amor, on behalf of the S&D Group, and Thierry Mariani, on behalf of the PfE Group.
The following spoke under the catch-the-eye procedure: Lukas Sieper.
The following spoke: Ekaterina Zaharieva (Member of the Commission).
The debate closed.
Vote: minutes of 19.6.2025, item 5.1.
15.2. Case of Ahmadreza Jalali in Iran
Motions for resolutions B10-0280/2025, B10-0284/2025, B10-0285/2025, B10-0286/2025, B10-0296/2025, B10-0299/2025 and B10-0300/2025 (2025/2753(RSP))
Michał Wawrykiewicz, Evin Incir, Veronika Vrecionová, Abir Al-Sahlani, Alice Kuhnke, Jonas Sjöstedt and Sebastiaan Stöteler introduced their groups’ motions for resolutions.
The following spoke: Alice Teodorescu Måwe, on behalf of the PPE Group, Francisco Assis, on behalf of the S&D Group, Gerolf Annemans, on behalf of the PfE Group, Hilde Vautmans, on behalf of the Renew Group, Wouter Beke, Daniel Attard and Danuše Nerudová.
The following spoke: Ekaterina Zaharieva (Member of the Commission).
The debate closed.
Vote: minutes of 19.6.2025, item 5.2.
15.3. Dissolution of political parties and the crackdown on the opposition in Mali
Motions for resolutions B10-0281/2025, B10-0291/2025, B10-0292/2025, B10-0293/2025, B10-0294/2025, B10-0297/2025 and B10-0298/2025 (2025/2754(RSP))
Christophe Gomart, Laura Ballarín Cereza and Catarina Vieira introduced their groups’ motions for resolutions.
The following spoke: Ingeborg Ter Laak, on behalf of the PPE Group, Marta Temido, on behalf of the S&D Group, and Reinhold Lopatka.
The following spoke: Ekaterina Zaharieva (Member of the Commission).
The debate closed.
Vote: minutes of 19.6.2025, item 5.3.
16. Digital Markets, Digital Euro, Digital Identities: economical stimuli or trends toward dystopia (topical debate)
The following spoke: Rada Laykova to open the debate proposed by the ESN Group.
The following spoke: Ekaterina Zaharieva (Member of the Commission).
The following spoke: Fernando Navarrete Rojas, on behalf of the PPE Group, Aurore Lalucq, on behalf of the S&D Group, Piotr Müller, on behalf of the ECR Group, Billy Kelleher, on behalf of the Renew Group, Sergey Lagodinsky, on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group, Jussi Saramo, on behalf of The Left Group, Siegbert Frank Droese, on behalf of the ESN Group, Lídia Pereira, Stefano Cavedagna, Katri Kulmuni, Damian Boeselager, Milan Mazurek, Fabio De Masi, Paulius Saudargas, Marlena Maląg, Diego Solier, Gheorghe Piperea, Dick Erixon and Claudiu-Richard Târziu.
The following spoke: Ekaterina Zaharieva.
The debate closed.
17. Oral explanations of votes (Rule 201)
No oral explanations of votes were made.
18. Explanations of votes in writing (Rule 201)
Explanations of votes given in writing would appear on the Members’ pages on Parliament’s website
19. Agenda of the next sitting
The next sitting would be held the following day, 19 June 2025, starting at 09:00. The agenda was available on Parliament’s website.
20. Approval of the minutes of the sitting
In accordance with Rule 208(3), the minutes of the sitting would be put to the House for approval at the beginning of the afternoon of the next sitting.
21. Closure of the sitting
The sitting closed at 21:10.
LIST OF DOCUMENTS SERVING AS A BASIS FOR THE DEBATES AND DECISIONS OF PARLIAMENT
I. Motions for resolutions tabled
Media freedom in Georgia, particularly the case of Mzia Amaglobeli
The following Members or political groups had requested that a debate be held, in accordance with Rule 150, on the following motions for resolutions:
on media freedom in Georgia, particularly the case of Mzia Amaglobeli (2025/2752(RSP)) (B10-0282/2025) Lena Schilling, Mélissa Camara, Mounir Satouri, Ville Niinistö, Maria Ohisalo, Mārtiņš Staķis, NicolaeŞtefănuță, Markéta Gregorová on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group
on media freedom in Georgia, particularly the case of Mzia Amaglobeli (2025/2752(RSP)) (B10-0283/2025) Danilo Della Valle on behalf of The Left Group
on media freedom in Georgia, particularly the case of Mzia Amaglobeli (2025/2752(RSP)) (B10-0287/2025) Urmas Paet, Petras Auštrevičius, Malik Azmani, Dan Barna, Benoit Cassart, Veronika Cifrová Ostrihoňová, Engin Eroglu, Svenja Hahn, Karin Karlsbro, Ľubica Karvašová, Ilhan Kyuchyuk, Nathalie Loiseau, Jan-Christoph Oetjen, Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, Eugen Tomac, Hilde Vautmans, Lucia Yar, Dainius Žalimas, Olivier Chastel on behalf of the Renew Group
on media freedom in Georgia, particularly the case of Mzia Amaglobeli (2025/2752(RSP)) (B10-0288/2025) Petr Bystron, Tomasz Froelich, Hans Neuhoff, Alexander Sell on behalf of the ESN Group
on media freedom in Georgia, particularly the case of Mzia Amaglobeli (2025/2752(RSP)) (B10-0289/2025) Yannis Maniatis, Francisco Assis, Tobias Cremer on behalf of the S&D Group
on media freedom in Georgia, particularly the case of Mzia Amaglobeli (2025/2752(RSP)) (B10-0290/2025) Sebastião Bugalho, David McAllister, Željana Zovko, Isabel Wiseler-Lima, Tomas Tobé, Miriam Lexmann, Andrey Kovatchev, Michał Wawrykiewicz, Dariusz Joński, Loránt Vincze, Danuše Nerudová, Mirosława Nykiel, Antonio López-Istúriz White, Davor Ivo Stier, Luděk Niedermayer, Ingeborg Ter Laak, Liudas Mažylis, Inese Vaidere, Rasa Juknevičienė on behalf of the PPE Group
on media freedom in Georgia, particularly the case of Mzia Amaglobeli (2025/2752(RSP)) (B10-0295/2025) Adam Bielan, Małgorzata Gosiewska, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Reinis Pozņaks, Rihards Kols, Alexandr Vondra, Mariusz Kamiński, Veronika Vrecionová, Ondřej Krutílek, Waldemar Tomaszewski, Assita Kanko, Bogdan Rzońca, Arkadiusz Mularczyk, Joachim Stanisław Brudziński on behalf of the ECR Group
Case of Ahmadreza Jalali in Iran
The following Members or political groups had requested that a debate be held, in accordance with Rule 150, on the following motions for resolutions:
on the case of Ahmadreza Jalali in Iran (2025/2753(RSP)) (B10-0280/2025) Jonas Sjöstedt on behalf of The Left Group
on the case of Ahmadreza Jalali in Iran (2025/2753(RSP)) (B10-0284/2025) Alice Kuhnke, Maria Ohisalo, Mounir Satouri, NicolaeŞtefănuță, Mélissa Camara, Ville Niinistö, Hannah Neumann on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group
on the case of Dr Ahmadreza Djalali’s illegal arrest and detention in Iran (2025/2753(RSP)) (B10-0285/2025) Abir Al-Sahlani, Petras Auštrevičius, Malik Azmani, Dan Barna, Benoit Cassart, Olivier Chastel, Veronika Cifrová Ostrihoňová, Engin Eroglu, Bart Groothuis, Svenja Hahn, Karin Karlsbro, Ilhan Kyuchyuk, Jan-Christoph Oetjen, Urmas Paet, Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, Hilde Vautmans, Lucia Yar on behalf of the Renew Group
on the case of Ahmadreza Jalali in Iran (2025/2753(RSP)) (B10-0286/2025) Sebastiaan Stöteler, Marieke Ehlers, António Tânger Corrêa, Nikola Bartůšek, Pierre-Romain Thionnet, Gerolf Annemans, Hermann Tertsch on behalf of the PfE Group
on the case of Ahmadreza Jalali in Iran (2025/2753(RSP)) (B10-0296/2025) Yannis Maniatis, Francisco Assis, Evin Incir, Chloé Ridel on behalf of the S&D Group
on the case of Ahmadreza Jalali in Iran (2025/2753(RSP)) (B10-0299/2025) Sebastião Bugalho, Michał Wawrykiewicz, Željana Zovko, David McAllister, Isabel Wiseler-Lima, Tomas Tobé, Miriam Lexmann, Andrey Kovatchev, Loucas Fourlas, Dariusz Joński, Loránt Vincze, Danuše Nerudová, Mirosława Nykiel, Antonio López-Istúriz White, Davor Ivo Stier, Luděk Niedermayer, Ingeborg Ter Laak, Liudas Mažylis, Inese Vaidere on behalf of the PPE Group
on the case of Ahmadreza Jalali in Iran (2025/2753(RSP)) (B10-0300/2025) Adam Bielan, Reinis Pozņaks, Rihards Kols, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Mariusz Kamiński, Alexandr Vondra, Ondřej Krutílek, Veronika Vrecionová, Alberico Gambino, Carlo Fidanza, Waldemar Tomaszewski, Assita Kanko, Bogdan Rzońca, Arkadiusz Mularczyk, Cristian Terheş, Diego Solier, Nora Junco García, Michał Dworczyk, Małgorzata Gosiewska, Marion Maréchal on behalf of the ECR Group
Dissolution of political parties and the crackdown on the opposition in Mali
The following Members or political groups had requested that a debate be held, in accordance with Rule 150, on the following motions for resolutions:
on dissolution of political parties and the crackdown on the opposition in Mali (2025/2754(RSP)) (B10-0281/2025) Merja Kyllönen on behalf of The Left Group
on dissolution of political parties and the crackdown on the opposition in Mali (2025/2754(RSP)) (B10-0291/2025) Nathalie Loiseau, Oihane Agirregoitia Martínez, Petras Auštrevičius, Malik Azmani, Dan Barna, Benoit Cassart, Olivier Chastel, Engin Eroglu, Svenja Hahn, Karin Karlsbro, Ilhan Kyuchyuk, Jan-Christoph Oetjen, Urmas Paet, Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, Hilde Vautmans, Yvan Verougstraete, Lucia Yar on behalf of the Renew Group
on dissolution of political parties and the crackdown on the opposition in Mali (2025/2754(RSP)) (B10-0292/2025) Tomasz Froelich, Hans Neuhoff, Alexander Sell on behalf of the ESN Group
on dissolution of political parties and the crackdown on the opposition in Mali (2025/2754(RSP)) (B10-0293/2025) Matthieu Valet, Pierre-Romain Thionnet, Nikola Bartůšek on behalf of the PfE Group
on dissolution of political parties and the crackdown on the opposition in Mali (2025/2754(RSP)) (B10-0294/2025) Yannis Maniatis, Francisco Assis, Laura Ballarín Cereza on behalf of the S&D Group Catarina Vieira on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group
on dissolution of political parties and the crackdown on the opposition in Mali (2025/2754(RSP)) (B10-0297/2025) Sebastião Bugalho, Christophe Gomart, Željana Zovko, David McAllister, Isabel Wiseler-Lima, Tomas Tobé, Miriam Lexmann, Andrey Kovatchev, Michał Wawrykiewicz, Dariusz Joński, Loránt Vincze, Danuše Nerudová, Mirosława Nykiel, Antonio López-Istúriz White, Davor Ivo Stier, Luděk Niedermayer, Ingeborg Ter Laak, Liudas Mažylis, Inese Vaidere on behalf of the PPE Group
on dissolution of political parties and the crackdown on the opposition in Mali (2025/2754(RSP)) (B10-0298/2025) Adam Bielan, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Alexandr Vondra, Ondřej Krutílek, Veronika Vrecionová, Waldemar Tomaszewski, Assita Kanko, Bogdan Rzońca, Arkadiusz Mularczyk, Joachim Stanisław Brudziński, Małgorzata Gosiewska on behalf of the ECR Group
II. Delegated acts (Rule 114(2))
Draft delegated acts forwarded to Parliament
– Commission Delegated Regulation amending Regulation (EU) 2024/1735 of the European Parliament and of the Council as regards the identification of sub-categories within net-zero technologies and the list of specific components used for those technologies. (C(2025)02901 – 2025/2733(DEA))
Deadline for raising objections: 2 months from the date of receipt of 23 May 2025
referred to committee responsible: ITRE opinion: ECON, EMPL, ENVI, IMCO, REGI
– Commission Delegated Regulation amending Regulation (EU) 2019/125 concerning trade in certain goods which could be used for capital punishment, torture or other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment (C(2025)03066 – 2025/2727(DEA))
Deadline for raising objections: 2 months from the date of receipt of 21 May 2025
referred to committee responsible: INTA
– Commission Delegated Regulation amending Regulation (EU) 2019/1242 of the European Parliament and of the Council as regards the addition of vehicle sub-groups for extra-heavy-combination lorries (C(2025)03071 – 2025/2726(DEA))
Deadline for raising objections: 2 months from the date of receipt of 20 May 2025
referred to committee responsible: ENVI
– Commission Delegated Regulation supplementing Directive 2003/87/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council as regards measures adopted by the International Civil Aviation Organisation for the monitoring, reporting and verification of aviation emissions for the purpose of implementing a global market-based measure and repealing Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/1603 (C(2025)03075 – 2025/2725(DEA))
Deadline for raising objections: 2 months from the date of receipt of 20 May 2025
referred to committee responsible: ENVI opinion: ITRE
– Commission Delegated Regulation amending Regulation (EC) No 273/2004 of the European Parliament and of the Council and Council Regulation (EC) No 111/2005 as regards the inclusion of the drug precursors 4-piperidone and 1-boc-4-piperidone in the list of scheduled substances (C(2025)03079 – 2025/2729(DEA))
Deadline for raising objections: 2 months from the date of receipt of 21 May 2025
referred to committee responsible: LIBE
– Commission Delegated Regulation supplementing Regulation (EU) No 600/2014 of the European Parliament and of the Council with regard to regulatory technical standards on the authorisation and organisational requirements for approved publication arrangements and approved reporting mechanisms, and on the authorisation requirements for consolidated tape providers, and repealing Delegated Regulation (EU) 2017/571 (C(2025)03100 – 2025/2765(DEA))
Deadline for raising objections: 3 months from the date of receipt of 12 June 2025
referred to committee responsible: ECON
– Commission Delegated Regulation supplementing Regulation (EU) No 600/2014 of the European Parliament and of the Council with regard to regulatory technical standards specifying the input and output data of consolidated tapes, the synchronisation of business clocks and the revenue redistribution by the consolidated tape provider for shares and ETFs, and repealing Delegated Regulation (EU) 2017/574 (C(2025)03102 – 2025/2761(DEA))
Deadline for raising objections: 3 months from the date of receipt of 12 June 2025
referred to committee responsible: ECON
– Commission Delegated Regulation supplementing Regulation (EU) No 600/2014 of the European Parliament and of the Council with regard to regulatory technical standards on the obligation to make market data available to the public on a reasonable commercial basis (C(2025)03103 – 2025/2762(DEA))
Deadline for raising objections: 3 months from the date of receipt of 12 June 2025
referred to committee responsible: ECON
– Commission Delegated Regulation supplementing Regulation (EU) 2018/1139 of the European Parliament and of the Council with detailed rules and procedures on the acceptance of air traffic controller licences and certificates issued by third countries. (C(2025)03114 – 2025/2732(DEA))
Deadline for raising objections: 2 months from the date of receipt of 23 May 2025
referred to committee responsible: TRAN
– Commission Delegated Regulation supplementing Regulation (EU) 2024/1735 of the European Parliament and of the Council by specifying the rules on the identification of authorised oil and gas producers who are required to contribute to the objective of reaching the Union-target for available CO2 injection capacity by 2030, on the calculation of their respective contributions, and on their reporting obligations (C(2025)03218 – 2025/2730(DEA))
Deadline for raising objections: 2 months from the date of receipt of 21 May 2025
referred to committee responsible: ITRE opinion: ECON, EMPL, ENVI, IMCO, REGI
– Commission Delegated Regulation supplementing Regulation (EU) 2023/1114 of the European Parliament and of the Council with regard to regulatory technical standards specifying the information in an application for authorisation to offer asset-referenced tokens to the public or to seek their admission to trading (C(2025)03221 – 2025/2737(DEA))
Deadline for raising objections: 3 months from the date of receipt of 5 June 2025
referred to committee responsible: ECON
– Commission Delegated Regulation amending Regulation (EU) No 748/2012 as regards updating the references to the environmental protection requirements and correcting that Regulation (C(2025)03287 – 2025/2735(DEA))
Deadline for raising objections: 2 months from the date of receipt of 28 May 2025
referred to committee responsible: TRAN
– Commission Delegated Regulation amending Regulation (EU) 2019/1241 of the European Parliament and of the Council as regards geographic coordinates in Annexes VII and XIII thereto (C(2025)03293 – 2025/2734(DEA))
Deadline for raising objections: 2 months from the date of receipt of 28 May 2025
referred to committee responsible: PECH
– Commission Delegated Regulation amending the Annex to Regulation (EU) No 609/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council to allow the use of monosodium salt of L-5-methyltetrahydrofolic acid as a source of folate in infant formula and follow-on formula, processed cereal-based food and baby food, total diet replacement for weight control and in food for special medical purposes (C(2025)03411 – 2025/2736(DEA))
Deadline for raising objections: 2 months from the date of receipt of 4 June 2025
referred to committee responsible: ENVI
– Commission Delegated Regulation amending Regulation (EU) 2017/745 of the European Parliament and of the Council, as regards the assignment of Unique Device Identifiers for spectacle frames, spectacle lenses and ready-to-wear reading spectacles (C(2025)03484 – 2025/2763(DEA))
Deadline for raising objections: 3 months from the date of receipt of 12 June 2025
referred to committee responsible: SANT
– Commission Delegated Regulation amending Regulation (EU) 2019/2144 of the European Parliament and of the Council to take into account regulatory developments concerning amendments to UN Regulations Nos 25, 34, 79, 100, 117, 127 and 152, and the new UN Regulations Nos 167, 169 and 171 adopted by the World Forum for Harmonization of Vehicle Regulations of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (C(2025)03502 – 2025/2738(DEA))
Deadline for raising objections: 2 months from the date of receipt of 5 June 2025
referred to committee responsible: IMCO
– Commission Delegated Regulation amending Delegated Regulation (EU) No 876/2013 supplementing Regulation (EU) No 648/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council as regards changes to the functioning and management of colleges for central counterparties (C(2025)03626 – 2025/2755(DEA))
Deadline for raising objections: 3 months from the date of receipt of 11 June 2025
referred to committee responsible: ECON
– Commission Delegated Regulation amending Regulation (EU) No 575/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council with regard to the date of application of the own funds requirements for market risk (C(2025)03643 – 2025/2764(DEA))
Deadline for raising objections: 3 months from the date of receipt of 12 June 2025
referred to committee responsible: ECON
– Commission Delegated Regulation on the implementation of the Union’s international obligations, as referred to in Article 15(2) of Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council, under the Trade and Cooperation Agreement between the European Union and the European Atomic Energy Community, of the one part, and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, of the other part, as regards picked dogfish (C(2025)03715 – 2025/2768(DEA))
Deadline for raising objections: 2 months from the date of receipt of 13 June 2025
referred to committee responsible: PECH
– Commission Delegated Regulation amending Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1675 to add Algeria, Angola, Côte d’Ivoire, Kenya, Laos, Lebanon, Monaco, Namibia, Nepal and Venezuela to the list of high-risk third countries which have provided a written high-level political commitment to address the identified deficiencies and have developed an action plan with the FATF, and to remove Barbados, Gibraltar, Jamaica, Panama, the Philippines, Senegal, Uganda and the United Arab Emirates from that list (C(2025)03815 – 2025/2740(DEA))
Deadline for raising objections: 1 month from the date of receipt of 10 June 2025
referred to committee responsible: ECON, LIBE
– Commission Delegated Regulation amending Delegated Regulation (EU) 2025/530 as regards its date of application (C(2025)03819 – 2025/2766(DEA))
Deadline for raising objections: 2 months from the date of receipt of 12 June 2025
The Indian government must immediately halt all deportations of Rohingya men, women and children, recognize them as refugees and treat them with the dignity and protection they deserve under international human rights law, Amnesty International said ahead of World Refugee Day.
In just the last month, the Indian authorities allegedly deported at least 40 Rohingya refugees, including children and older people, by forcing them off a naval ship and giving them life jackets before abandoning them in international waters near Myanmar. In a separate incident, authorities also forced over 100 Rohingya refugees across the border into Bangladesh.
“From Zoroastrians and Tibetans to Afghans, Bangladeshis and Sri Lankan Tamils, India has long been a sanctuary for those fleeing persecution. But the Government of India’s recent actions which includes dumping Rohingya refugees at sea and forcefully deporting refugees without following any due procedure, unfortunately betrays this proud tradition. History will remember how the government chose to treat the persecuted when they knocked on our door for safety,” said Aakar Patel, chair of the board of Amnesty International India.
“The Indian government treats us like criminals”
On 8 May, Indian authorities detained at least 40 Rohingya refugees living in Delhi, many of whom held identification documents issued by the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR), according to their relatives who spoke with Amnesty International. The refugees were then blindfolded, flown to the far-off Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and transferred onto an Indian naval vessel.
In the Andaman Sea, the refugees were allegedly given life jackets and forced into the water, leaving them with no choice but to attempt to swim to an island in Myanmar’s territory. Speaking to Amnesty International, a relative of one of the Rohingya refugees said, “Once they reached ashore, they called us using the phone of a fisherman… After that we haven’t heard from them. We are very worried about their safety.” While the refugees are believed to have reached the shore safely, their current location and condition remain unknown.
A few days later, over 100 Rohingya refugees detained at the Matia Transit Detention Centre in Assam, the largest such facility in India, were transported by bus and then forced across the eastern border into Bangladesh, reportedly without being granted access to any formal legal process or asylum review.
On 17 May, two Rohingya refugees filed a petition urging India’s Supreme Court to intervene and immediately halt further deportations. However, the Supreme Court dismissed the plea, with the judge questioning the credibility of the “beautifully crafted story” lacking substantive evidence, while criticizing the timing of the petition filed during the recent India-Pakistan conflict.
Speaking to Amnesty International on the condition of anonymity due to the fear of reprisal, a Rohingya refugee based in India said, “We are living in constant fear of being deported. Even though we hold UNHCR refugee cards, the Indian government treats us like criminals. In the past few months, so many of my relatives and fri
The Education Bureau today said today that it is encouraged that universities funded by the University Grants Committee (UGC) continue to hold top spots in the latest World University Rankings, which are published by Quacquarelli Symonds (QS), an international higher education organisation.
The bureau highlighted that five UGC-funded universities stayed in the world’s top 100 in the World University Ranking 2026, making Hong Kong the place with the highest concentration of top-ranked universities globally.
It said the rankings reflect not only the unremitting efforts and continuous pursuit of excellence of Hong Kong’s higher education institutions but also the Government’s long-term commitment to investing in education.
The University of Hong Kong rose six places to 11th globally in the latest rankings, while the Chinese University of Hong Kong climbed four spots to 32nd, and the Hong Kong University of Science & Technology advanced three positions to 44th.
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University and City University of Hong Kong also achieved outstanding results, ranking 54th and 63rd respectively.
The bureau said the Government will do its utmost to provide assistance and convenience to overseas talent interested in studying or conducting research at higher education institutions in Hong Kong, and will strive to further expand the non-local student quota. It added that the Government will continue to promote internationalisation and diversified development in the eight UGC-funded universities.
Furthermore, it outlined that the Government strives both to attract talent from around the world and nurture local talent through various initiatives such as scholarship programmes, thereby leveraging Hong Kong’s strengths to serve the country’s needs.
The bureau also stressed that the Government will continue to strengthen global exchanges, including strengthening and broadening research networks and co-operation.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Appeal for information on missing man in Tsing Yi
Police today (June 19) appealed to the public for information on a man who went missing in Tsing Yi.
Cheng Tik-lun, aged 28, went missing after he left his residence in Hong Wah House, Cheung Hong Estate on June 9 afternoon. His family made a report to Police on June 16.
He is about 1.65 metres tall, around 59 kilograms in weight and of thin build. He has a long face with yellow complexion and short black hair. He was last seen in unknown clothing.
Anyone who knows the whereabouts of the missing man or may have seen him is urged to contact the Regional Missing Persons Unit of New Territories South on 3661 1173 or 9078 1880 or email to rmpu-nts-2@police.gov.hk, or contact any police station.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Sai Wan Ho Civic Centre to hold fun day this weekend to celebrate reopening
The Leisure and Cultural Services Department will present the Fun Day of Sai Wan Ho Civic Centre (SWHCC) from 1pm to 5.30pm on June 21 (Saturday) and 22 (Sunday) to celebrate the reopening of SWHCC after renovation and improvement works. Members of the public are welcome to join. An array of programmes blending Chinese and Western cultures, with youth and community engagement as highlights, will be held at the Fun Day. Programmes include a lion dance performance by the acclaimed dragon and lion dance team of the Buddhist Ho Nam Kam Secondary School, an exhilarating Chinese drum performance by the Hong Kong Drum Ensemble, a street dance and busking performance by the Youth Outreach’s School of Hip Hop, and a performance of various styles of jazz music by young musicians from the group Fountain de Chopin. Young musicians curated by the Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups and the Boys’ & Girls’ Clubs Association of Hong Kong will also stage performances of diverse music pieces. Moreover, the ceremony of the Fun Day will be held at the Theatre of SWHCC at 1pm on June 22, with exciting lion dance and majestic Chinese drum performances for public enjoyment. A number of workshops will also be available at the Fun Day, including the “One Day in the Theatre” workshop by the Absolutely Fabulous Theatre Connection (AFTEC), the venue partner of SWHCC, for participants to try being an actor or working backstage in a theatre setting, and 19/06/2025, 11:27 Sai Wan Ho Civic Centre to hold fun day this weekend to celebrate reopening (with photos) https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202506/19/P2025061900251p.htm#:~:text=The Leisure and Cultural Services,after renovation and improvement works. 1/2 to take part in a showcase performance on the same day. Furthermore, the AFTEC will present the “Re-imagine Theatre” exhibition at the foyer of SWHCC from June 21, guiding audiences into the world of theatrical plays as the protagonists’ companions. On June 21, a stage tour will be available for members of the public at the Theatre of SWHCC to introduce participants to the new and advanced stage equipment and facilities after the renovation of SWHCC and to learn about the operations behind the scenes in a stage production. Admission is free. For details, please visit www.lcsd.gov.hk/en/swhcc/aboutus/funday.html . Ends/Thursday, June 19, 2025 Issued at HKT 12:30 NNNN
Source: ASEAN – Association of SouthEast Asian Nations
JAKARTA, 19 June 2025 — Ambassador Roberto Colaminè presented his Letter of Credence to the Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, at the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat today, assuming his post as the Ambassador of the Italian Republic to ASEAN.
Secretary-General Dr. Kao congratulated Ambassador Colaminè on his assumption of office and reiterated the ASEAN Secretariat’s readiness to work closely with him and the Embassy of the Italian Republic in Jakarta in further strengthening the ASEAN-Italy Development Partnership. In response, Ambassador Colaminè confirmed Italy’s commitment to ASEAN and the wider Indo-Pacific region and referred to the successful completion of key initiatives to promote Italy-ASEAN relations.
Secretary-General Dr. Kao took the opportunity to encourage Ambassador Colaminè to engage with the diplomatic community in Jakarta, especially with the Permanent Missions of the ASEAN Member States to ASEAN. Both sides noted the significance of expanding and exploring cooperation in areas of mutual interest under the ASEAN-Italy Practical Cooperation Areas (2022-2026), such as space technology, agriculture, renewable energy, eco-tourism, and sustainable coastal and maritime development.
Italy accredited its first Ambassador to ASEAN in 2009. Ambassador Colaminè succeeds Ambassador Benedetto Latteri, who completed his tenure in December 2024.
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The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Thursday announced that the southwest monsoon has further advanced over most parts of Bihar and some more parts of East Uttar Pradesh.
As the monsoon gains momentum, very heavy to extremely heavy rainfall is expected at isolated places across Gujarat, north Konkan, Madhya Maharashtra, West Bengal, and Odisha on June 19.
Jharkhand is also likely to experience intense rainfall on both June 19 and 20. Meanwhile, the northeastern states are forecast to receive heavy to very heavy rainfall consistently over the next seven days.
In Delhi-NCR, the weather is expected to remain generally cloudy from June 19 to 22, with intermittent rain and thunderstorms.
The IMD has advised residents, particularly in the affected states, to stay cautious during periods of heavy rain and thunderstorms. The advancing monsoon is expected to bring significant relief from heat, while also contributing to the seasonal rainfall crucial for agriculture.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (June 19) launched a new edition of antimicrobial guidelines entitled the Interhospital Multi-disciplinary Programme on Antimicrobial ChemoTherapy (IMPACT) Guidelines. These guidelines serve as a reference for doctors when prescribing antimicrobial drugs for inpatients, aiming to prevent overuse which may aggravate antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
“In view of the evolving AMR situations, the CHP in collaboration with experts updated IMPACT based on local AMR data and the latest international and local literature for reference of doctors so that antimicrobials can be prescribed in a more accurate manner. The CHP organised a forum today to introduce the major updates of the guidelines, including the empirical therapy of common infections, antimicrobials for known pathogens and recommendations for surgical antimicrobial prophylaxis to over 150 participating healthcare professionals from the public and private sectors. Recommended dosing and adverse reactions for certain antimicrobials are also set out in the updated guidelines,” said the Consultant (Antimicrobial Resistance) of the Infection Control Branch of the CHP, Dr Edmond Ma.
In addition to the forum for the medical field, the CHP also issued a Letter to Doctors today, urging them to refer to the new guidelines and prescribe the appropriate antimicrobials to patients in need. This will help curb the spread of drug resistance and safeguard the effectiveness of existing treatments.
Dr Ma added, “AMR occurs when microorganisms (such as bacteria and viruses) evolve and become resistant to previously effective medications. When patients are infected with drug-resistant bacteria, their illness may be prolonged, and their risk of death may even increase. The misuse and overuse of antibiotics are the major drivers of drug-resistant bacteria. Since the first edition of the IMPACT Guidelines was launched in 1999, it has become an important reference for healthcare professionals, helping to minimise unnecessary or inappropriate prescribing of antimicrobials. At the same time, it has become a key foundation for launching the Antimicrobial Stewardship Programme in public hospitals and will facilitate the enhancement of relevant measures in private hospitals in the future. According to the latest surveillance data, the proportion of antimicrobials in the Watch category (i.e. antimicrobials considered by the World Health Organization to be at a higher risk of developing drug resistance) in the total supply of antimicrobials in Hong Kong decreased from 40.3 per cent in 2016 to 34.6 per cent in 2024, indicating that doctors are prescribing relatively fewer broad spectrum antibiotics to help combat AMR.”
The Government has been placing great importance on addressing the necessity of combating AMR. In 2022, the Government published the second Hong Kong Strategy and Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance (Action Plan), outlining strategies to tackle the threat of AMR from 2023 to 2027. The measures include reviewing and updating IMPACT, and reminding doctors to prescribe antimicrobials to patients in accordance with guidelines and scientific evidence.
The IMPACT set of guidelines, now in its 6th edition, are a collaborative effort among the CHP, the Hospital Authority, the Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine of the University of Hong Kong, the Faculty of Medicine of the Chinese University of Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Medical Association and the Hong Kong Private Hospitals Association. The CHP would like to express its sincere gratitude to the Editors, Dr Ho Pak-leung, Dr Wu Tak-chiu, and the other members of the Editorial Board.
The CHP also urged members of the public to work with healthcare professionals to eliminate AMR by observing the following:
Consult a doctor when having a cold, flu or COVID-19. Do not buy antibiotics without a prescription at community pharmacies;
Do not demand antibiotics from doctors. Only take antibiotics when advised by doctors and complete the whole course of treatment even if symptoms have improved;
Follow health advice stated on the prescription bag and adopt appropriate infection control measures such as maintaining hand hygiene, wearing a surgical mask when having respiratory symptoms, and disinfecting and covering all wounds properly to prevent person-to-person spread of resistant bacteria when taking antibiotics;
Receive seasonal influenza and COVID-19 vaccines as effective means to prevent secondary bacterial infection, hence reducing the use of antibiotics and occurrence of AMR;
Be aware of the risk of acquiring resistant bacteria from ready-to-eat (RTE) food. People taking antibiotics or antacids, and high-risk populations (such as pregnant women, infants and young children, the elderly and people with weakened immunity) are of higher risk and should avoid eating raw or undercooked RTE foods; and
Observe good hygienic practices in the kitchen when handling food to minimise the risk of cross-contamination by resistant bacteria.
For details of the IMPACT Guidelines, please visit the IMPACT webpage (impact.chp.gov.hk/). For more information about AMR, please visit the CHP website.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Government welcomes appointment of new Chief Executive of Consumer Council The Consumer Council has completed the open recruitment and selection process for the post of Chief Executive and has just announced the appointment arrangements.
Mr Yau said, “With her extensive management experience in public organisations, Ms Shum is well placed to lead the Consumer Council. She is currently the Deputy Executive Director of the Vocational Training Council, responsible for the strategic development work on the Mainland and overseas, and the promotion of collaboration among various stakeholders. I hope that the Consumer Council, under Ms Shum’s leadership, will continue to join hands with various sectors to further enhance the protection of consumer rights and interests.” Issued at HKT 11:15
Headline: China Mobile and Huawei’s AI Core Network Wins Best AI Innovation in Asia Award at GSMA’s Asia Mobile Awards
[Shanghai, China, June 19, 2025] During MWC Shanghai 2025, China Mobile and Huawei were honored with GSMA’s Best AI Innovation in Asia Award for its industry-first AI Core Network solution. This accolade highlights the industry’s recognition of China Mobile and Huawei’s technological innovation and business practices in core network and AI, cementing its role as a pioneer in the mobile AI era.
AI Core Network wins the Best AI Innovation in Asia Award
The convergence of 5G-A and AI technology heralds the era of mobile AI, allowing for exponentially more connections between people, homes, and industries. This evolution drives core networks to expand the boundaries of connectivity, and meet the service demands of individuals, families, enterprises, and AI agents.
To that end, China Mobile and Huawei have taken the lead in introducing AI to the core network, to accommodate intelligent applications with intelligent networks. The AI Core Network develops in two phases. The first phase is to build a 5G-A intelligent core network with AI agents, greatly improving the intelligent capabilities of the network, and allowing intelligent services, experiences, and O&M to be implemented. This phase also introduces computing-network convergence to address the computing power and energy challenges faced by user devices. The second phase is to reconstruct the core network as AI native, evolving into an Agentic Core. The Agentic Core can be self-generating, self-optimizing, and self-maintaining. It can dynamically adapt to diverse, real-time personalized service requirements.
As a frontrunner of service intelligence, New Calling has been put into large-scale commercial use in China, providing innovative services such as Visualized Voice Calling, Fun Calling, and Real-time Translation. For network intelligence, the Intelligent Personalized Experience (IPE) solution is commercially deployed across multiple provinces in China. IPE realizes service awareness, user awareness, and network awareness, helping operators shift from traffic-based to experience-based monetization. O&M intelligence has been integrated into operators’ production systems. This has allowed the reshaping of O&M models, and greatly enhanced operations, maintenance, and customer experiences. China Mobile Zhejiang branch has pioneered the commercial use of AI agents for fault management and complaint handling. China Mobile has also worked with Huawei to develop a low-carbon core network through hardware-software collaboration, to achieve E2E system-level energy efficiency.
George Gao, President of Huawei Cloud Core Network Product Line, stated that “Integrating AI into the core network is a defining feature of the mobile AI era. Beyond this, the AI Core Network will provide a fertile ground for innovative services, accelerating the shift from an intelligent connectivity of things, to an intelligent connectivity of AI agents. Huawei will work with China Mobile and industry partners to develop more innovative services, empower more industries, and create greater business value.”
MWC Shanghai 2025 will be held from June 18 to June 20 in Shanghai, China. During the event, Huawei will showcase its latest products and solutions in Hall N1 of the Shanghai New International Expo Center (SNIEC).
The commercial adoption of 5G-Advanced is accelerating in 2025. Huawei collaborates with global carriers, industry experts, and opinion leaders to explore how innovations in AI can be used to reshape telecom services, infrastructure, and operations to generate new revenue sources and accelerate the transition towards an intelligent world.
For more information, please visit: https://carrier.huawei.com/en/events/mwcs2025
Headline: China Mobile and Huawei’s AI Core Network Wins Best AI Innovation in Asia Award at GSMA’s Asia Mobile Awards
[Shanghai, China, June 19, 2025] During MWC Shanghai 2025, China Mobile and Huawei were honored with GSMA’s Best AI Innovation in Asia Award for its industry-first AI Core Network solution. This accolade highlights the industry’s recognition of China Mobile and Huawei’s technological innovation and business practices in core network and AI, cementing its role as a pioneer in the mobile AI era.
AI Core Network wins the Best AI Innovation in Asia Award
The convergence of 5G-A and AI technology heralds the era of mobile AI, allowing for exponentially more connections between people, homes, and industries. This evolution drives core networks to expand the boundaries of connectivity, and meet the service demands of individuals, families, enterprises, and AI agents.
To that end, China Mobile and Huawei have taken the lead in introducing AI to the core network, to accommodate intelligent applications with intelligent networks. The AI Core Network develops in two phases. The first phase is to build a 5G-A intelligent core network with AI agents, greatly improving the intelligent capabilities of the network, and allowing intelligent services, experiences, and O&M to be implemented. This phase also introduces computing-network convergence to address the computing power and energy challenges faced by user devices. The second phase is to reconstruct the core network as AI native, evolving into an Agentic Core. The Agentic Core can be self-generating, self-optimizing, and self-maintaining. It can dynamically adapt to diverse, real-time personalized service requirements.
As a frontrunner of service intelligence, New Calling has been put into large-scale commercial use in China, providing innovative services such as Visualized Voice Calling, Fun Calling, and Real-time Translation. For network intelligence, the Intelligent Personalized Experience (IPE) solution is commercially deployed across multiple provinces in China. IPE realizes service awareness, user awareness, and network awareness, helping operators shift from traffic-based to experience-based monetization. O&M intelligence has been integrated into operators’ production systems. This has allowed the reshaping of O&M models, and greatly enhanced operations, maintenance, and customer experiences. China Mobile Zhejiang branch has pioneered the commercial use of AI agents for fault management and complaint handling. China Mobile has also worked with Huawei to develop a low-carbon core network through hardware-software collaboration, to achieve E2E system-level energy efficiency.
George Gao, President of Huawei Cloud Core Network Product Line, stated that “Integrating AI into the core network is a defining feature of the mobile AI era. Beyond this, the AI Core Network will provide a fertile ground for innovative services, accelerating the shift from an intelligent connectivity of things, to an intelligent connectivity of AI agents. Huawei will work with China Mobile and industry partners to develop more innovative services, empower more industries, and create greater business value.”
MWC Shanghai 2025 will be held from June 18 to June 20 in Shanghai, China. During the event, Huawei will showcase its latest products and solutions in Hall N1 of the Shanghai New International Expo Center (SNIEC).
The commercial adoption of 5G-Advanced is accelerating in 2025. Huawei collaborates with global carriers, industry experts, and opinion leaders to explore how innovations in AI can be used to reshape telecom services, infrastructure, and operations to generate new revenue sources and accelerate the transition towards an intelligent world.
For more information, please visit: https://carrier.huawei.com/en/events/mwcs2025
As India prepares to celebrate the 11th International Day of Yoga on June 21, the government is rolling out a wide range of events across the country under this year’s theme — “Yoga for One Earth, One Health.”
The main event, Yoga Sangam, will feature a synchronised mass yoga demonstration based on the Common Yoga Protocol (CYP) at over one lakh locations across India. The nationwide event is scheduled for June 21, from 6:30 AM to 7:45 AM.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lead the national celebration from Visakhapatnam, where over 2.5 lakh participants are expected to perform yoga together — an attempt to set a new world record. This collective celebration underscores India’s continued commitment to yoga as a timeless tool for well-being and sustainability.
Yoga, an invaluable gift of ancient Indian tradition, has become one of the most trusted practices to enhance both physical and mental health. Derived from the Sanskrit root “yuj,” meaning “to join,” “to yoke,” or “to unite,” yoga symbolises the unity of mind and body, thought and action, discipline and fulfilment, and harmony between humans and nature.
Recognising yoga’s universal appeal, the United Nations declared June 21 as the International Day of Yoga through Resolution 69/131 on December 11, 2014. The draft resolution was introduced by India and endorsed by a record 175 member states.
Prime Minister Modi first proposed the idea in his address at the opening of the 69th session of the UN General Assembly on September 27, 2014. The date, June 21, marks the Summer Solstice, the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, symbolising balance between nature and wellness — a concept rooted in many cultures worldwide.
The first International Yoga Day was celebrated in 2015, and since then, the event has grown into a global wellness movement. According to the Ministry of AYUSH, participation has risen exponentially — from 9.59 crore people in 2018 to an estimated 24.53 crore in 2024, demonstrating its massive global appeal.
This year’s theme, “Yoga for One Earth, One Health,” resonates deeply with India’s G20 presidency vision — One Earth, One Family, One Future. It highlights the interconnectedness of individual health, planetary sustainability, and collective well-being.
Elaborating on the symbolism of the International Yoga Day logo, the Ministry of AYUSH explained that the folded hands represent the union of individual and universal consciousness, regarded as the core principle of yoga.
Each element of the logo carries deeper meaning: the brown leaves signify the Earth element, green represents Nature, blue denotes Water, brightness symbolizes Fire, and the Sun stands for the ultimate source of energy and inspiration.
Together, the logo embodies the values of harmony, peace, and holistic well-being for all of humanity.
As part of the celebrations, the PM Yoga Awards will be conferred to individuals and organisations that have demonstrated outstanding contributions in promoting and practising yoga. The awards aim to honour excellence and encourage the widespread adoption of yoga as a daily practice.
Ahead of the International Day of Yoga on June 21, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Thursday hailed the state as the land of yoga and sages, while highlighting the government’s efforts to promote yoga at the grassroots level.
Joined by officers and staff, Dhami performed yoga at his residence and urged the people of Uttarakhand to incorporate the ancient practice into their daily lives.
“Yoga is not just a physical exercise but a journey towards inner peace and self-realisation. It is a means to calm the mind and reach the depths of consciousness,” the Chief Minister said.
Emphasising yoga’s deep roots in Indian culture, Dhami described it as a fundamental pillar of Sanatan Dharma, which has long prioritised human values and holistic well-being.
“This is why yoga has become an integral part of the lives of crores of people across the world, establishing the Indian way of life on the global stage,” he added.
The Chief Minister also recalled Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s proposal at the United Nations General Assembly in 2014 to designate an International Day of Yoga. The resolution received support from 177 countries and led to the annual observance of Yoga Day on June 21.
Dhami noted that yoga has also become a source of livelihood, generating employment opportunities in India and abroad. To strengthen this momentum, the state government has introduced a Yoga Policy aimed at establishing Uttarakhand as the global capital of yoga and wellness.
Finland’s parliament voted on Thursday in favour of withdrawing the country from the Ottawa Convention that bans the use of anti-personnel landmines amid concerns over a military threat posed by neighbouring Russia.
Finland joins other European Union and NATO members bordering Russia – Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia and Poland – in exiting or planning to exit the treaty, as fears grow about their much larger neighbour.
President Alexander Stubb, who leads Finland’s foreign and security policy, on Tuesday defended the move.
“The reality in the endgame is that we have as our neighbouring country an aggressive, imperialist state called Russia, which itself is not a member of the Ottawa Treaty and which itself uses landmines ruthlessly,” he said.
Russia has used landmines in its invasion of Ukraine.
The Finnish decision follows similar votes in Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania, where parliaments have already approved the withdrawal.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday welcomed India’s significant improvement in the QS World University Rankings 2026, calling it a reflection of the country’s growing stature in global education.
Responding to a post on X by Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, PM Modi said, “The QS World University 2026 Rankings bring great news for our education sector. Our government is committed to furthering research and innovation ecosystems for the benefit of India’s youth.”
A record 54 Indian institutions have been featured in the QS World University Rankings 2026, with the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi emerging as the top-ranked Indian institution nationally.
The education minister said the improvement was the result of education reforms introduced over the past decade, particularly the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
“This five-fold jump — from just 11 institutions in 2014 to 54 in 2026 — is a testament to the transformative reforms brought in by the Modi government over the last ten years,” he said. “The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 is not just changing our education system; it is revolutionising it.”
According to the Ministry of Education, India has seen an “unprecedented rise” in representation, with more universities than ever earning a place in the global rankings. The ministry stated that India is now the fastest-growing G20 country in the QS rankings, recording a 390 percent increase in the number of ranked institutions over the past decade.
In a significant boost to India’s defence self-reliance efforts, Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) has supplied the complete requirement of special steel for the Indian Navy’s first indigenously designed and built Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC), INS Arnala. The vessel was commissioned into the Indian Navy on Wednesday.
The steel supplied by SAIL has been used entirely in the construction of INS Arnala, reflecting a major stride in the country’s journey towards indigenisation and reduced import dependency in the defence manufacturing sector.
INS Arnala is the lead ship in a series of eight ASW-SWC corvettes being constructed by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata. SAIL has provided the complete special-grade steel requirement for all eight vessels under this project.
As a Maharatna Public Sector Undertaking and the largest steel producer in India, SAIL has consistently supported the nation’s defence infrastructure. The company has played a vital role in several indigenous defence projects. In addition to INS Arnala, SAIL has previously supplied special steel for notable naval platforms such as INS Vikrant, INS Vindhyagiri, INS Nilgiri, and INS Surat.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Scientists comment on UKHSA announcing a rabies case in an individual that had contact with an animal in Morocco.
Dr Chris Smith, Clinical Associate Professor, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), said:
“Rabies is a fatal but preventable disease. Although cases in UK travellers are very rare, this recent tragic case underscores the importance of awareness and timely treatment.
“Rabies is endemic in many parts of the world, including popular holiday destinations such as Morocco, Turkey, India, Thailand, the Philippines, and Indonesia. All human rabies cases reported in the UK since 1902 have been acquired abroad: typically through dog bites. Since 1946, 26 imported cases have been reported, with the most recent prior to this being in 2018, following a bite from a cat in Morocco.
“Travellers to countries where rabies is present should seek pre-travel advice regarding vaccination.
“Rabies is usually transmitted to humans through the bite or scratch of an infected animal, most often dogs, but also cats and bats. Even a minor scratch or lick on broken skin can pose a risk. If exposed, immediate first aid is essential: the wound should be thoroughly washed with soap and water, and prompt post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) – including a course of rabies vaccinations and, in some cases, rabies immunoglobulin – should be sought. These interventions are highly effective when started early.”
“The key public health messages are:
Rabies is a deadly but preventable disease
Seek pre-travel advice regarding vaccination when visiting high-risk countries
Avoid contact with animals abroad; if bitten or scratched, seek medical care immediately — don’t wait for symptoms to appear”
Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today received Deputy Secretary General of the Secretariat of the House of Representatives of the Kingdom of Thailand, Nattakrit Vongjarean, at the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat. Dr. Kao congratulated Deputy Secretary General Nattakrit on his recent appointment and acknowledged Thailand’s active role in enhancing parliamentary engagement within ASEAN. Both sides exchanged views on strengthening collaboration between ASEAN and the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA), particularly in support of the ASEAN Community Vision 2045 and the promotion of regional awareness.
The post Secretary-General of ASEAN receives Deputy Secretary General of the Secretariat of House Representatives of Thailand appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
KUNMING, June 19 (Xinhua) — The 9th China-South Asia Expo opened in Kunming, capital of southwest China’s Yunnan Province, on Thursday. Wang Dongming, vice chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress (NPC Standing Committee), delivered a speech at the opening ceremony.
Wang Dongming noted that in recent years, China and South Asian countries have been adhering to the spirit of openness, cooperation and inclusiveness, deepening practical cooperation in all areas, and economic and trade exchanges have maintained a favorable development momentum, bringing benefits to the peoples of all countries. Mutually beneficial cooperation between the two sides has laid a solid foundation for deepening the traditional friendship between the peoples of China and South Asia, and has become a model for synergistic development in the region.
Wang Dongming stressed that China is committed to further linking its own development with that of South Asian countries. China will continuously strengthen strategic mutual trust, firmly uphold multilateralism, continuously deepen practical cooperation, actively carry out mutual learning and exchange of experience, promote the building of a community with a shared future for neighboring countries, and jointly create a bright future.
The 9th China-South Asia Expo is being held from June 19 to 24 in Kunming. Earlier, at a press conference, Vice Minister of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China Yan Dong said that the expo, jointly organized by the Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China and the People’s Government of Yunnan Province, will be one of the most important events this year in the field of economic and trade exchanges between China and South Asian countries.
According to him, in 2024, trade turnover between China and South Asian countries will approach US$200 billion, doubling over the past decade.
Yan Dong also noted that China will closely cooperate with South Asian countries to align development strategies, expand cooperation in new areas such as the digital economy, low-carbon development and intelligent manufacturing, and support the region’s industrialization. -0-
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Tashkent, June 19 (Xinhua) — Uzbekistan and China are strategic partners in promoting green development, Sarvar Rakhmatullaev, a leading researcher at the Institute for Strategic and Interregional Studies under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, said in an interview with Xinhua.
He noted that in the era of global climate challenges and energy transformation, international cooperation in the field of sustainable development is of particular importance. One of the most striking examples of such interaction is the strategic partnership between Uzbekistan and China in the field of green economy: two countries united by a common vision of an environmentally sustainable future are demonstrating an exemplary model of interstate cooperation that can become a catalyst for green transformation of all of Central Asia, the scientist emphasized.
According to S. Rakhmatullaev, in recent years, a remarkable transformation has been observed in relations between Uzbekistan and China, turning bilateral interaction into the embodiment of successful interstate cooperation. Thanks to the active efforts of the leaders of the two states, these relations have reached a new, higher level with the establishment of an all-weather comprehensive strategic partnership in a new era, he added.
Economic indicators eloquently testify to the scale of the progress achieved: the most significant trend of recent years has been the transition from traditional forms of cooperation to the environmental agenda, the expert said. Today, there is a significant dynamic of interaction between Uzbekistan and China in green energy, which implies cooperation in the use of technologies that promote environmental efficiency and sustainability, including innovative solutions and advanced developments to achieve environmental goals, the agency’s interlocutor said.
S. Rakhmatullaev noted that in recent years, China has secured its status as the undisputed leader in the field of renewable energy and green technologies. The green development policy has become one of the priority tasks of the Chinese government, it is based on the concept of the ecological civilization of China, aimed at balanced and sustainable development, harmonious coexistence of man and nature, the expert added. -0-
A total of 2,34,864 houses have been sanctioned across nine states—Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh. These houses fall under the Beneficiary Led Construction (BLC) and Affordable Housing in Partnership (AHP) verticals of the scheme.
With this latest approval, the cumulative number of houses sanctioned under PMAY-U 2.0 has reached 7,09,979.
Addressing the meeting, Secretary MoHUA urged larger states to formulate state-level affordable housing policies and submit more proposals under the AHP vertical. States were also advised to consider Maharashtra’s policy framework as a reference model and adapt it based on local needs. The Secretary further recommended early identification and attachment of beneficiaries to reduce the risk of unoccupied housing units at a later stage.
The scheme continues to lay strong emphasis on inclusivity and women’s empowerment. Of the houses approved, over 1.25 lakh units have been sanctioned in the name of women, including single women and widows. Additionally, 44 houses have been allocated to transgender persons. In a further boost to social equity, 42,400 houses have been sanctioned for Scheduled Caste (SC) beneficiaries, 17,574 for Scheduled Tribes (ST), and 1,13,414 for Other Backward Classes (OBC).
Under PMAY-U 2.0, launched as a revamped version of the original PMAY-U in June 2015, the Government aims to provide 1 crore urban families with financial assistance to either construct or purchase a pucca house. A central assistance of up to ₹2.5 lakh per unit is provided under the scheme.
The eligibility criteria include individuals or families not owning a pucca house anywhere in India. For the BLC and AHP verticals, households with an annual income up to ₹3 lakh are eligible, while for the Interest Subsidy Scheme (ISS) vertical, the income cap is ₹9 lakh. Aadhaar or Aadhaar Virtual ID is mandatory for all beneficiaries.
To date, over 93.19 lakh houses have been completed and handed over to beneficiaries under PMAY-U. The launch of PMAY-U 2.0 aims to extend this support to an additional 1 crore families across the urban landscape, particularly targeting the EWS, LIG and MIG segments.
Citizens can apply for the scheme through the official portal at https://pmay-urban.gov.in or seek assistance from their respective Urban Local Bodies (ULBs).
lass=”tr-story-p1″>Boca Juniors players Ander Herrera and Nicolas Figal were handed four-match bans by FIFA after being sent off in their Club World Cup opener against Benfica, a spokesperson for the Argentine club told Reuters on Wednesday.
Boca disagreed with the sanctions imposed on their players after Benfica’s Andrea Belotti received a two-match ban for catching Ayrton Costa in the head with a high boot in the 72nd minute.
“We have already contacted FIFA to submit an appeal,” said the club spokesperson.
Spanish midfielder Herrera, who was subbed off due to a muscle injury, was shown a red card in the 45th minute after protesting to Mexican referee Cesar Ramos from the bench over a penalty awarded to the Portuguese side.
Defender Figal was sent off in the 88th minute with a straight red card for a foul on Florentino Luis when the match was tied at 2-2.
Boca will face Bayern Munich at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami on Friday in their second match in Group C.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Excellent performance of Hong Kong’s higher education system showcases effectiveness of government measures He stressed that the Government attracts quality talent from around the world and nurtures local talent through various measures such as scholarship programmes to leverage Hong Kong’s strengths to serve the country’s needs. Starting from the 2024/25 academic year (AY), the non-local student quota for UGC-funded institutions has been doubled from 20 per cent to 40 per cent, raising non-local undergraduate enrolment from 19.9 per cent (2023/24 AY) to 23.2 per cent. The Government will further foster collaboration among the eight UGC-funded universities, including supporting the jointly established Heads of Universities Committee’s Standing Committee on Internationalisation to continue to promote the “Study in Hong Kong” brand worldwide.
The spokesman added that the Government will continue to promote the strengthening of global exchanges and connections of research personnel and teams of local universities and support them to broaden research networks and co-operation areas with their overseas counterparts.
The Government attaches great importance to the quality of teaching and learning at universities and invests substantial resources to step up support for the high-quality development of Hong Kong education. For the 2025–2028 triennium, approximately 78 per cent of the Block Grant will be allocated to support teaching and learning. Compared with the 2022-2025 triennium, the Teaching Development and Language Enhancement Grant provided by the UGC will increase by $100 million to approximately $920 million. The key themes of the Grant – including the integration of generative artificial intelligence and innovative technologies in education, the sharing of exemplary practices in teaching and learning, and the enhancement of students’ well-being and personal development – are aligned with current trends in education and societal needs. The most recent round of quality audits conducted by the Quality Assurance Council under the UGC also reaffirms the high quality of educational experiences offered by UGC-funded universities.
To dovetail with the National 14th Five-Year Plan, the Government will leverage the vast opportunities in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, supporting cutting-edge research conducted by the eight UGC-funded universities through the Research Grants Council (RGC) under the UGC. Over 20 research funds and scholarship programmes operate under the RGC, with more than 1 500 new projects receiving funding annually. These measures will help foster a robust research environment and further consolidate Hong Kong’s position as an international post-secondary education hub. Issued at HKT 17:06
Announcement on Open Market Operations No.115 [2025]
(Open Market Operations Office, June 18, 2025)
The People’s Bank of China (PBOC) issued the fourth batch of central bank bills in 2025 on the Central Moneymarkets Unit (CMU) bond tendering platform of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) through interest rate bidding on June 18, 2025 (Wednesday).
Details of the Reverse Repo Operations
Issue
Volume
Maturity
Rate
The Fourth Batch of Central Bank Bills (2025) (Hong Kong)
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
KUNMING, June 19 — The 9th China-South Asia Expo opened on Thursday in Kunming, capital of southwest China’s Yunnan Province, drawing representatives from 73 countries, regions and international organizations, as well as more than 2,500 enterprises.
The six-day event has brought together all South and Southeast Asian nations, featuring 16 exhibition halls, nearly 70 percent of which are dedicated to professional sectors such as manufacturing, green energy, the coffee industry, and traditional Chinese medicine.
Two South Asia-themed pavilions with nearly 800 booths have been set up, with India and Pakistan each hosting 140 booths.
Nearly 40 economic and trade events are scheduled during the expo, including forums and procurement matchmaking meetings aimed at deepening regional cooperation.
The expo was first held in Kunming in 2013, the same year China put forward the Belt and Road Initiative. It has since facilitated over 110 billion U.S. dollars in foreign trade transactions and served more than 20,000 enterprises.
Jointly organized by the Ministry of Commerce (MOC) and the Yunnan provincial government, the expo serves as a key platform to strengthen economic and trade links between China and South Asian nations.
In 2024, trade between China and South Asian countries neared 200 billion U.S. dollars, doubling over the past decade with an average annual growth rate of 6.3 percent, according to MOC data.
China remains committed to high-level opening up and is advancing Chinese modernization through high-quality development, a process that will create valuable opportunities for cooperation with countries around the world, including those in South Asia, vice minister of commerce Yan Dong said at the opening ceremony.
Yan also expressed China’s readiness to deepen trade and investment ties, expand cooperation in emerging sectors such as the digital economy, low-carbon development, artificial intelligence and biomedicine, and jointly promote an open world economy.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Nine highly anticipated Chinese blockbusters, including projects from directors Guan Hu, Rao Xiaozhi, Lu Yang and Feng Xiaogang, were previewed at a special event during the 27th Shanghai International Film Festival (SIFF) on June 17.
Cast and crew members of nine upcoming Chinese blockbusters pose for a group photo at a promotional event during the 27th Shanghai International Film Festival, June 17, 2025. [Photo courtesy of SIFF Organizing Committee]
Chen Guo, managing director of the Shanghai International Film and TV Events Center, said the blockbuster productions reflected the Chinese film industry’s ability to bring together leading talent and resources.
“These films not only showcase the highest standards of Chinese cinema but also exert significant influence across the global film market,” Chen said at the 2025 Chinese Epic Showcase event. “The nine featured productions embody the collective expertise and dedication of Chinese filmmakers, carrying the industry’s and audiences’ highest expectations. Together, they will inject powerful momentum into the film market’s growth for the second half of this year.”
The nine productions include Guan Hu and Fei Zhenxiang’s “Dong Ji Island,” Light Chaser Animation’s “Curious Tales of a Temple,” Rao Xiaozhi’s sequel to “A Cool Fish,” Da Peng’s “The Lychee Road,” Lu Yang’s “A Writer’s Odyssey 2” and “Echoes of Encounter,” Cao Baoping’s “Man Huang Jin Di,” and Feng Xiaogang’s “I Know Who You Are.” Several are scheduled for summer theatrical release.
“Dong Ji Island,” six years in development and part of the Filmed for IMAX program, tells the story of Chinese fishermen from the Dongji Islands who risked their lives during World War II to rescue British prisoners of war after the Japanese transport ship Lisbon Maru was torpedoed and sank. The film features extensive underwater sequences, with more than 100 crew members receiving aquatic training and over 60 days spent on underwater filming, co-director Fei Zhenxiang said. The film is set for release on Aug. 8.
“Curious Tales of a Temple,” an animated fantasy anthology from the studio behind “Chang An,” is set for release on July 12. Yu Zhou, co-founder and president of Light Chaser Animation, said the studio sought to honor the literary legacy of Pu Songling, a Qing dynasty writer, and that the project was its most demanding to date.
Another anticipated title is “The Lychee Road,” due out July 25. Adapted from Ma Boyong’s novel, the film follows a Tang Dynasty official tasked with delivering lychees to the royal court. Director Da Peng described it as a comedy about an “ordinary man giving his all against life’s unfairness and helplessness.”
Director Lu Yang presented two films: “A Writer’s Odyssey 2,” a fantasy adventure in the Filmed for IMAX program, and “Echoes of Encounter,” a science fiction romance set in a post-apocalyptic Nanjing and based on Tianrui Shuofu’s award-winning novel “Once Upon a Time in Nanjing.”
“We explored the Filmed for IMAX program to capture our grand-scale scenes and innovative action sequences,” Lu said. “The IMAX format extends beyond mere larger visuals — it expands imagination itself. It allows us to fully convey the fearless courage we want to present to audiences, along with our passionate devotion to the people and ideals we believe in.”
Director Cao Baoping, known for crime dramas such as “Trouble Makers” and “The Dead End,” introduced his latest film, “Man Huang Jin Di,” at the event. Set in a lawless region where crime is rampant, the film stars Jackson Yee, Duan Yihong, Huang Bo and Zhang Yi. It is scheduled for release later this year.
“I Know Who You Are,” the latest film from director Feng Xiaogang, marks his return to period drama after an eight-year break since “Youth.” Starring Lei Jiayin and Hu Ge, the film follows a police officer’s 40-year search for a spy who turns out to be his neighbor. The story spans several decades and depicts social change through detailed recreations of daily life and architecture.
Other films promoted at the event include the fantasy romance “Gift from a Cloud” by Yao Tingting, which is set for release on Aug. 29, and a dark comedy sequel to Rao Xiaozhi’s hit “A Cool Fish,” scheduled for release on July 5. The sequel is also part of the Filmed for IMAX program.
“Whether in life or work, we all face low moments — even the global film market has struggled these years. This film is our wish for tides to turn,” Rao said.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
The Census and Statistics Department (C&SD) released today (June 19) the preliminary figures of chain volume measures of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by economic activity for the first quarter of 2025.
GDP figures by economic activity show the value of production in respect of individual economic activities. The value of production is measured by value added or net output, which is calculated by deducting intermediate input consumed in the process of production from the gross value of output. Volume measures of GDP by economic activity, expressed in terms of chain volume measures net of the effect of price changes, enable analysis of the output growth profiles of individual economic sectors in real terms.
According to the preliminary figures, overall GDP increased by 3.1% in real terms in the first quarter of 2025 over a year earlier, compared with the 2.5% increase in the fourth quarter of 2024.
Analysed by constituent services sector and on a year-on-year comparison, value added in respect of all the services activities taken together increased by 2.6% in real terms in the first quarter of 2025 over a year earlier, compared with the growth of 1.7% in the fourth quarter of 2024.
Value added in the import and export, wholesale and retail trades sector increased by 4.2% in real terms in the first quarter of 2025 over a year earlier, as against the decrease of 0.2% in the fourth quarter of 2024.
Value added in the accommodation and food services sector decreased by 1.8% in real terms in the first quarter of 2025 from a year earlier, as against the growth of 2.6% in the fourth quarter of 2024.
Value added in the transportation, storage, postal and courier services sector increased by 2.9% in real terms in the first quarter of 2025 over a year earlier, compared with the increase of 6.8% in the fourth quarter of 2024.
Value added in the information and communications sector increased by 1.3% in real terms in the first quarter of 2025 over a year earlier, compared with the rise of 1.5% in the fourth quarter of 2024.
Value added in the financing and insurance sector increased by 4.4% in real terms in the first quarter of 2025 over a year earlier, compared with the increase of 1.9% in the fourth quarter of 2024.
Value added in the real estate, professional and business services sector registered a decrease of 0.3% in real terms in the first quarter of 2025 from a year earlier, as against the rise of 1.7% in the fourth quarter of 2024.
Value added in the public administration, social and personal services sector rose by 1.7% in real terms in the first quarter of 2025 over a year earlier, compared with the increase of 3.0% the fourth quarter of 2024.
As for sectors other than the services sectors, value added in the local manufacturing sector increased by 0.7% in real terms in the first quarter of 2025 over a year earlier, compared with the increase of 1.0% in the fourth quarter 2024.
Value added in the electricity, gas and water supply, and waste management sector decreased by 1.4% in real terms in the first quarter of 2025 from a year earlier, as against the increase of 3.0% in the fourth quarter of 2024.
Value added in the construction sector decreased by 1.9% in real terms in the first quarter of 2025 from a year earlier, after the decrease of 4.7% in the fourth quarter of 2024.
Further information
The year-on-year percentage changes of GDP by economic activity in real terms from the first quarter of 2024 to the first quarter of 2025 are shown in Table 1. More detailed statistics are given in the report “Gross Domestic Product by Economic Activity”. Users can browse and download this publication at the website of the C&SD (www.censtatd.gov.hk/en/EIndexbySubject.html?pcode=B1030004&scode=250). For enquiries about statistics on GDP by economic activity, please call the National Income Branch (2) of the C&SD at 3903 7005.
Figures of chain volume measures of GDP by economic activity for the first quarter of 2025 are only preliminary at this stage. When more data become available, the preliminary figures will be revised accordingly and can be found at the C&SD website (www.censtatd.gov.hk/en/scode250.html).
SPECIAL REPORT:By Saige England in Ōtautahi and Ava Mulla in Cairo
Hope for freedom for Palestinians remains high among a group of trauma-struck New Zealanders in Cairo.
In spite of extensive planning, the Global March To Gaza (GMTG) delegation of about 4000 international aid volunteers was thwarted in its mission to walk from Cairo to Gaza to lend support.
The land of oranges and pyramids became the land of autocracy last week as peace aid volunteers — young, middle-aged, and elderly — were herded like cattle and cordoned behind fences.
Their passports were initially seized — and later returned. Several New Zealanders were among those dragged and beaten.
While ordinary Egyptians showed “huge support” for the GMTG, the militant Egyptian regime showed its hand in supporting Israel rather than Palestine.
A member of the delegation, Natasha*, said she and other members pursued every available diplomatic channel to ensure that the peaceful, humanitarian, march would reach Gaza.
Moved by love, they were met with hate.
Violently attacked “When I stepped toward the crowd’s edge and began instinctually with heart break to chant, ‘Free Palestine,’ I was violently attacked by five plainclothes men.
“They screamed, grabbed, shoved, and even spat on me,” she said.
Tackled, she was dragged to an unmarked van. She did not resist, posed no threat, yet the violence escalated instantly.
“I saw hatred in their eyes.”
Egyptian state security forces and embedded provocateurs were intent on dismantling and discrediting the Global March activists. Image: GMTG
Another GMTG member, a woman who tried to intervene was also “viciously assaulted”. She witnessed at least three other women and two men being attacked.
The peacemakers escaped from the unmarked van the aggressors were distracted, seemingly confused about their destination, she said.
It is now clear that from the beginning Egyptian State forces and embedded provocateurs were intent on dismantling and discrediting the GMTG.
Authorities as provocateurs The peace participants witnessed plainclothed authorities act as provacateurs, “shoving people, stepping on them, throwing objects” to create a false image for media.
New Zealand actor Will Alexander . . . “This is only a fraction of what Palestinians experience every day.” GMTG
New Zealand actor Will Alexander said the experience had inflated rather than deflated his passion for human rights, and compassion for Palestinians.
“This is only a fraction of what Palestinians experience everyday. Palestinians pushed into smaller and smaller areas are murdered for wanting to stand on their own land,” he said.
“The reason that ordinary New Zealanders like us need to put our bodies on the line is because our government has failed to uphold its obligations under the Genocide Convention.
“Israel has blatantly breached international law for decades with total impunity.”
While the New Zealanders are all safe, a small number of people in the wider movement had been forcibly ‘disappeared’,” said GMTG New Zealand member Sam Leason.
Their whereabouts was still unknown, he said.
Arab members targeted “It must be emphasised that it is primarily — and possibly strictly — Arab members of the March who are the targets of the most dramatic and violent excesses committed by the Egyptian authorities, including all forced disappearances.”
Global March to Gaza activists being attacked . . . the genocide cannot be sustained when people from around the world push against the Israeli regime and support the people on the ground with food and healthcare. Image: GMTG screenshot APR
This did, however, continuously add to the mounting sense of stress, tension, anxiety and fear, felt by the contingent, he said.
“Especially given the Egyptian authorities’ disregard to their own legal system, which leaves us blindsided and in a thick fog of uncertainty.”
Moving swiftly through the streets of Cairo in the pitch of night, from hotel to hotel and safehouse to safehouse, was a “surreal and dystopian” experience for the New Zealanders and other GMTG members.
The group says that the genocide cannot be sustained when people from around the world push against the Israeli regime and support the people on the ground with food and healthcare.
“For 20 months our hearts have raced and our eyes have filled in unison with the elderly, men, women, and children, and the babies in Palestine,” said Billie*, a participant who preferred, for safety reasons, not to reveal their surname.
“If we do not react to the carnage, suffering and complete injustice and recognise our shared need for sane governance and a liveable planet what is the point?”
Experienced despair Aqua*, another New Zealand GMTG member, had experienced despair seeing the suffering of Palestinians, but she said it was important to nurture hope, as that was the only way to stop the genocide.
“We cling to every glimmer of hope that presents itself. Like an oasis in a desert devoid of human emotion we chase any potential igniter of the flame of change.”
Activist Eva Mulla . . . inspired by the courage of the Palestinians. Image: GMTG screenshot APR
Ava Mulla, said from Cairo, that the group was inspired by the courage of the Palestinians.
“They’ve been fighting for freedom and justice for decades against the world’s strongest powers. They are courageous and steadfast.”
Mulla referred to the “We Were Seeds” saying inspired by Greek poet Dinos Christianopoulos.
“We are millions of seeds. Every act of injustice fuels our growth,” she said.
Helplessness an illusion The GMTG members agreed that “impotence and helplessness was an illusion” that led to inaction but such inaction allowed “unspeakable atrocities” to take place.
“This is the holocaust of our age,” said Sam Leason.
“We need the world to leave the rhetorical and symbolic field of discourse and move promptly towards the camp of concrete action to protect the people of Palestine from a clear campaign of extermination.”
Saige England is an Aotearoa New Zealand journalist, author, and poet, member of the Palestinian Solidarity Network of Aotearoa (PSNA), and a contributor to Asia Pacific Report.
*Several protesters quoted in this article requested that their family names not be reported for security reasons. Ava Mulla was born in Germany and lives in Aotearoa with her partner, actor Will Alexander. She studied industrial engineering and is passionate about innovative housing solutions for developing countries. She is a member of the Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa (PSNA).
New Zealand and other activists with Tino Rangatiratanga and Palestine flags taking part in the Global March To Gaza. Will Alexander (far left) is in the back row and Ava Mulla (pink tee shirt) is in the front row. Image: GMTG screenshot APR
SPECIAL REPORT:By Saige England in Ōtautahi and Ava Mulla in Cairo
Hope for freedom for Palestinians remains high among a group of trauma-struck New Zealanders in Cairo.
In spite of extensive planning, the Global March To Gaza (GMTG) delegation of about 4000 international aid volunteers was thwarted in its mission to walk from Cairo to Gaza to lend support.
The land of oranges and pyramids became the land of autocracy last week as peace aid volunteers — young, middle-aged, and elderly — were herded like cattle and cordoned behind fences.
Their passports were initially seized — and later returned. Several New Zealanders were among those dragged and beaten.
While ordinary Egyptians showed “huge support” for the GMTG, the militant Egyptian regime showed its hand in supporting Israel rather than Palestine.
A member of the delegation, Natasha*, said she and other members pursued every available diplomatic channel to ensure that the peaceful, humanitarian, march would reach Gaza.
Moved by love, they were met with hate.
Violently attacked “When I stepped toward the crowd’s edge and began instinctually with heart break to chant, ‘Free Palestine,’ I was violently attacked by five plainclothes men.
“They screamed, grabbed, shoved, and even spat on me,” she said.
Tackled, she was dragged to an unmarked van. She did not resist, posed no threat, yet the violence escalated instantly.
“I saw hatred in their eyes.”
Egyptian state security forces and embedded provocateurs were intent on dismantling and discrediting the Global March activists. Image: GMTG
Another GMTG member, a woman who tried to intervene was also “viciously assaulted”. She witnessed at least three other women and two men being attacked.
The peacemakers escaped from the unmarked van the aggressors were distracted, seemingly confused about their destination, she said.
It is now clear that from the beginning Egyptian State forces and embedded provocateurs were intent on dismantling and discrediting the GMTG.
Authorities as provocateurs The peace participants witnessed plainclothed authorities act as provacateurs, “shoving people, stepping on them, throwing objects” to create a false image for media.
New Zealand actor Will Alexander . . . “This is only a fraction of what Palestinians experience every day.” GMTG
New Zealand actor Will Alexander said the experience had inflated rather than deflated his passion for human rights, and compassion for Palestinians.
“This is only a fraction of what Palestinians experience everyday. Palestinians pushed into smaller and smaller areas are murdered for wanting to stand on their own land,” he said.
“The reason that ordinary New Zealanders like us need to put our bodies on the line is because our government has failed to uphold its obligations under the Genocide Convention.
“Israel has blatantly breached international law for decades with total impunity.”
While the New Zealanders are all safe, a small number of people in the wider movement had been forcibly ‘disappeared’,” said GMTG New Zealand member Sam Leason.
Their whereabouts was still unknown, he said.
Arab members targeted “It must be emphasised that it is primarily — and possibly strictly — Arab members of the March who are the targets of the most dramatic and violent excesses committed by the Egyptian authorities, including all forced disappearances.”
Global March to Gaza activists being attacked . . . the genocide cannot be sustained when people from around the world push against the Israeli regime and support the people on the ground with food and healthcare. Image: GMTG screenshot APR
This did, however, continuously add to the mounting sense of stress, tension, anxiety and fear, felt by the contingent, he said.
“Especially given the Egyptian authorities’ disregard to their own legal system, which leaves us blindsided and in a thick fog of uncertainty.”
Moving swiftly through the streets of Cairo in the pitch of night, from hotel to hotel and safehouse to safehouse, was a “surreal and dystopian” experience for the New Zealanders and other GMTG members.
The group says that the genocide cannot be sustained when people from around the world push against the Israeli regime and support the people on the ground with food and healthcare.
“For 20 months our hearts have raced and our eyes have filled in unison with the elderly, men, women, and children, and the babies in Palestine,” said Billie*, a participant who preferred, for safety reasons, not to reveal their surname.
“If we do not react to the carnage, suffering and complete injustice and recognise our shared need for sane governance and a liveable planet what is the point?”
Experienced despair Aqua*, another New Zealand GMTG member, had experienced despair seeing the suffering of Palestinians, but she said it was important to nurture hope, as that was the only way to stop the genocide.
“We cling to every glimmer of hope that presents itself. Like an oasis in a desert devoid of human emotion we chase any potential igniter of the flame of change.”
Activist Eva Mulla . . . inspired by the courage of the Palestinians. Image: GMTG screenshot APR
Ava Mulla, said from Cairo, that the group was inspired by the courage of the Palestinians.
“They’ve been fighting for freedom and justice for decades against the world’s strongest powers. They are courageous and steadfast.”
Mulla referred to the “We Were Seeds” saying inspired by Greek poet Dinos Christianopoulos.
“We are millions of seeds. Every act of injustice fuels our growth,” she said.
Helplessness an illusion The GMTG members agreed that “impotence and helplessness was an illusion” that led to inaction but such inaction allowed “unspeakable atrocities” to take place.
“This is the holocaust of our age,” said Sam Leason.
“We need the world to leave the rhetorical and symbolic field of discourse and move promptly towards the camp of concrete action to protect the people of Palestine from a clear campaign of extermination.”
Saige England is an Aotearoa New Zealand journalist, author, and poet, member of the Palestinian Solidarity Network of Aotearoa (PSNA), and a contributor to Asia Pacific Report.
*Several protesters quoted in this article requested that their family names not be reported for security reasons. Ava Mulla was born in Germany and lives in Aotearoa with her partner, actor Will Alexander. She studied industrial engineering and is passionate about innovative housing solutions for developing countries. She is a member of the Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa (PSNA).
New Zealand and other activists with Tino Rangatiratanga and Palestine flags taking part in the Global March To Gaza. Will Alexander (far left) is in the back row and Ava Mulla (pink tee shirt) is in the front row. Image: GMTG screenshot APR