Source: US State of California 2
SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced that he has signed a tribal-state gaming compact with the Cher-Ae Heights Indian Community of the Trinidad Rancheria.
A copy of the Cher-Ae Heights Indian Community of the Trinidad Rancheria compact can be found here.
Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction
Mission
AdaptX Hub’s mission is to strengthen community resilience and support climate adaptation through AI and data-driven solutions, innovative risk assessment tools, and capacity-building in vulnerable regions across Asia and beyond.
DRR activities
AdaptX Hub’s key activities include:
Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction
Mission
Green Transformation and Sustainability Network (GXS) is a pioneering organisation driving the green economy, circular economy, biodiversity conservation, energy transition, social impact business, climate resilience, climate solutions, technology, governance, investment, sustainable development and green innovation across Vietnam and Southeast Asia.
The GXS Network focuses on empowering local businesses and communities, building collaborative networks for sustainable living and development. Its primary activities include promoting green economy initiatives, fostering circular economy practices, and implementing climate and sustainable solutions that align with the Vietnamese government and international commitments
DRR activities
the Making Cities Resilience 2030 program by UNDRR. It fosters policy, technology, and capacity building in disaster risk reduction for Vietnamese authorities and businesses. GXS founder Son Nguyen has completed some UNDRR training courses in the
Source: Amnesty International –
Ahead of a vote in Thailand’s House of Representatives on five bills to grant amnesty for criminal offences related to political activities, Amnesty International’s Regional Researcher Chanatip Tatiyakaroonwong said:
“Since 2020, various national security and criminal laws have been weaponized to rob Thailand’s peaceful protesters of their freedom, simply for exercising their right to speak out. Now is the moment for the government to make amends.
“In this pivotal vote, Thai lawmakers must ensure the new law allows for the full dismissal of all criminal charges against peaceful protesters – without exempting the lèse-majesté law.
“This law should also be an opportunity for Thai lawmakers to ensure that authorities who perpetrated human rights violations against protesters are not granted immunity for their crimes.”
Source: Amnesty International –
Ahead of a vote in Thailand’s House of Representatives on five bills to grant amnesty for criminal offences related to political activities, Amnesty International’s Regional Researcher Chanatip Tatiyakaroonwong said:
“Since 2020, various national security and criminal laws have been weaponized to rob Thailand’s peaceful protesters of their freedom, simply for exercising their right to speak out. Now is the moment for the government to make amends.
“In this pivotal vote, Thai lawmakers must ensure the new law allows for the full dismissal of all criminal charges against peaceful protesters – without exempting the lèse-majesté law.
“This law should also be an opportunity for Thai lawmakers to ensure that authorities who perpetrated human rights violations against protesters are not granted immunity for their crimes.”
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:
​The spokesperson for Princess Margaret Hospital (PMH) made the following announcement today (July 15):
Five male patients (aged 65 to 90) of a medicine and geriatrics ward in PMH have been confirmed as carriers of Carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae upon testing since July 7. All patients are being treated in isolation. One of the patients has symptoms of infections and in critical condition due to his underlying disease. Two of the other four asymptomatic patients are in stable condition, while the remaining two are in serious condition.
The hospital will continue the contact tracing investigation of close contacts of the patients in accordance with the prevailing guidelines. A series of enhanced infection control measures have already been adopted:
The hospital will continue to closely monitor the situation of the patients. The cases have been reported to the Hospital Authority Head Office and the Centre for Health Protection for necessary follow-up.
Source: Amnesty International –
Ahead of a vote in Thailand’s House of Representatives on five bills to grant amnesty for criminal offences related to political activities, Amnesty International’s Regional Researcher Chanatip Tatiyakaroonwong said:
“Since 2020, various national security and criminal laws have been weaponized to rob Thailand’s peaceful protesters of their freedom, simply for exercising their right to speak out. Now is the moment for the government to make amends.
“In this pivotal vote, Thai lawmakers must ensure the new law allows for the full dismissal of all criminal charges against peaceful protesters – without exempting the lèse-majesté law.
“This law should also be an opportunity for Thai lawmakers to ensure that authorities who perpetrated human rights violations against protesters are not granted immunity for their crimes.”
Source: US Food and Drug Administration
Summary
Company Announcement Date:
July 11, 2025
FDA Publish Date:
July 14, 2025
Product Type:
Food & BeveragesAllergens
Reason for Announcement:
Recall Reason Description
Undeclared hazelnuts
Company Name:
Hartford Bakery, Inc.
Brand Name:
Brand Name(s)
Lewis Bake Shop
Product Description:
Product Description
Artisan Style 1/2 Loaf
Company Announcement
“A previous version of this press release was issued on 7/10/25. This press release was updated to include six additional lots.”
EVANSVILLE, IN – July 11, 2025 — Hartford Bakery, Inc. is voluntarily recalling six lots of its “Lewis Bake Shop Artisan Style 1/2 Loaf” as this product may contain undeclared hazelnuts. People with a nut allergy or severe sensitivity to hazelnuts run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reactions if they consume these products.
Out of an abundance of caution, Hartford Bakery, Inc. is removing all units of product included in the twelve effected lot codes noted below. Hartford Bakery, Inc has determined that no other lot codes were affected.
The recalled “Lewis Bake Shop Artisan Style 1/2 Loaf” products were distributed in Michigan, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee, Georgia, Arkansas, Missouri, Alabama, and Mississippi retailers, including Kroger and Walmart. The product comes in a flexible plastic bag marked with the following information:
Lot code T10 174 010206, T10 174 010306, T10 174 010406, T10 174 020206, T10 174 020306, T10 174 020406, TH10 174 010206, TH10 174 010306, TH10 174 010406, TH10 174 020206, TH10 174 020306, and TH10 174 020406 found on the front panel of packaging.
Net Weight 12OZ (340G), UPC 24126018152 found on the bottom of packaging.
An expiration date of 07/13/2025 found on the front panel of packaging.
The recall was initiated after discovering that approximately 883 loaves of bread from six production lots contained visible hazelnuts and were distributed in “Lewis Bake Shop Artisan Style 1/2 Loaf” packaging. While the packaging states “May Contain Tree Nuts,” it does not state that it “Contains Hazelnuts.” An investigation revealed an error in change of packaging for a hazelnut-containing bread to the implicated white bread product.
While there have been no major reports of injury or illness to date, Hartford Bakery is aware of one customer who experienced digestive discomfort after consumption. Hartford Bakery also received consumer complaints from those who saw the nuts before consuming the product.
Consumers who purchased the implicated products are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact Hartford Bakery at 1-812-425-4642 Monday through Friday, except for holidays, from 8:00am-3:00pm CST.
ContactsTracy Wingo1-812-425-4642
*This updated release corrects the previously reported lot codes.
Link to Original Press Release
Company Contact Information
Consumers:
Hartford Bakery, Tracy Wingo
1-812-425-4642
Content current as of:
07/14/2025
Regulated Product(s)
Topic(s)
Follow FDA
Source: US Food and Drug Administration
Summary
Company Announcement Date:
July 11, 2025
FDA Publish Date:
July 14, 2025
Product Type:
Food & BeveragesAllergens
Reason for Announcement:
Recall Reason Description
Undeclared hazelnuts
Company Name:
Hartford Bakery, Inc.
Brand Name:
Brand Name(s)
Lewis Bake Shop
Product Description:
Product Description
Artisan Style 1/2 Loaf
Company Announcement
“A previous version of this press release was issued on 7/10/25. This press release was updated to include six additional lots.”
EVANSVILLE, IN – July 11, 2025 — Hartford Bakery, Inc. is voluntarily recalling six lots of its “Lewis Bake Shop Artisan Style 1/2 Loaf” as this product may contain undeclared hazelnuts. People with a nut allergy or severe sensitivity to hazelnuts run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reactions if they consume these products.
Out of an abundance of caution, Hartford Bakery, Inc. is removing all units of product included in the twelve effected lot codes noted below. Hartford Bakery, Inc has determined that no other lot codes were affected.
The recalled “Lewis Bake Shop Artisan Style 1/2 Loaf” products were distributed in Michigan, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee, Georgia, Arkansas, Missouri, Alabama, and Mississippi retailers, including Kroger and Walmart. The product comes in a flexible plastic bag marked with the following information:
Lot code T10 174 010206, T10 174 010306, T10 174 010406, T10 174 020206, T10 174 020306, T10 174 020406, TH10 174 010206, TH10 174 010306, TH10 174 010406, TH10 174 020206, TH10 174 020306, and TH10 174 020406 found on the front panel of packaging.
Net Weight 12OZ (340G), UPC 24126018152 found on the bottom of packaging.
An expiration date of 07/13/2025 found on the front panel of packaging.
The recall was initiated after discovering that approximately 883 loaves of bread from six production lots contained visible hazelnuts and were distributed in “Lewis Bake Shop Artisan Style 1/2 Loaf” packaging. While the packaging states “May Contain Tree Nuts,” it does not state that it “Contains Hazelnuts.” An investigation revealed an error in change of packaging for a hazelnut-containing bread to the implicated white bread product.
While there have been no major reports of injury or illness to date, Hartford Bakery is aware of one customer who experienced digestive discomfort after consumption. Hartford Bakery also received consumer complaints from those who saw the nuts before consuming the product.
Consumers who purchased the implicated products are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact Hartford Bakery at 1-812-425-4642 Monday through Friday, except for holidays, from 8:00am-3:00pm CST.
ContactsTracy Wingo1-812-425-4642
*This updated release corrects the previously reported lot codes.
Link to Original Press Release
Company Contact Information
Consumers:
Hartford Bakery, Tracy Wingo
1-812-425-4642
Content current as of:
07/14/2025
Regulated Product(s)
Topic(s)
Follow FDA
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
​Hongkong Post announced today (July 15) that, as advised by the postal administration of Slovakia, mail delivery services to areas with postcodes 93003, 93004, 93006, 93007 and 90068, previously impacted by local control measures after an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease, have returned to normal.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
The Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki, began his visit to Hainan Province yesterday (July 14).
Mr Chan first met with the Party Secretary and Chairman of the Hainan Provincial Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, Mr Li Rongcan, in Haikou to exchange views on the latest developments in the two places, and discuss promoting and deepening the partnership between Hong Kong and Hainan Province. Mr Chan said that there is a frequent flow of people, logistics and capital between the two places, and with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the two governments in March this year, the exchanges between Hong Kong and Hainan Province will be closer in future. Hong Kong will fully leverage its unique advantage of being backed by the motherland and connected to the world under the “one country, two systems” principle, and will work with Hainan Province to achieve results attributable to the two places’ advantages, deepen economic, trade and cultural exchanges, and make greater contributions to the country’s high-quality development and high-level opening up.
Mr Chan then visited the Hainan Chronicles Museum to learn about the patriotic and revolutionary tradition education work there as well as the construction and development progress of the Hainan Special Economic Zone and Hainan as an international tourism island. Mr Chan then departed for Wenchang to meet with the Secretary of the CPC Wenchang Municipal Committee, Mr Wang Peng. Mr Chan introduced the latest situation of Hong Kong, and exchanged views with Mr Wang on further promoting exchanges between the two places and exploring more co-operation and development opportunities.
Mr Chan visited the Wenchang Yaoguang Rocket Viewing Platform early today (July 15) to join a science exploration activity of the Hainan Aerospace Science and Research Study Tour under the Strive and Rise Programme. Mr Chan engaged with the participants and encouraged them to grasp this valuable learning opportunity to learn and understand the country’s robust developments and significant achievements in the field of aerospace. He also encouraged the participants to continue to work hard in the future to cultivate a sense of contributing to the country and serving the society, and become a new generation with a sense of social responsibility and contributions. Mr Chan said he believed that the experience of joining this meaningful aerospace science and research study tour will boost the participants’ sense of patriotism and national pride.
Mr Chan will depart for Heilongjiang Province today.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
The Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki, began his visit to Hainan Province yesterday (July 14).
Mr Chan first met with the Party Secretary and Chairman of the Hainan Provincial Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, Mr Li Rongcan, in Haikou to exchange views on the latest developments in the two places, and discuss promoting and deepening the partnership between Hong Kong and Hainan Province. Mr Chan said that there is a frequent flow of people, logistics and capital between the two places, and with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the two governments in March this year, the exchanges between Hong Kong and Hainan Province will be closer in future. Hong Kong will fully leverage its unique advantage of being backed by the motherland and connected to the world under the “one country, two systems” principle, and will work with Hainan Province to achieve results attributable to the two places’ advantages, deepen economic, trade and cultural exchanges, and make greater contributions to the country’s high-quality development and high-level opening up.
Mr Chan then visited the Hainan Chronicles Museum to learn about the patriotic and revolutionary tradition education work there as well as the construction and development progress of the Hainan Special Economic Zone and Hainan as an international tourism island. Mr Chan then departed for Wenchang to meet with the Secretary of the CPC Wenchang Municipal Committee, Mr Wang Peng. Mr Chan introduced the latest situation of Hong Kong, and exchanged views with Mr Wang on further promoting exchanges between the two places and exploring more co-operation and development opportunities.
Mr Chan visited the Wenchang Yaoguang Rocket Viewing Platform early today (July 15) to join a science exploration activity of the Hainan Aerospace Science and Research Study Tour under the Strive and Rise Programme. Mr Chan engaged with the participants and encouraged them to grasp this valuable learning opportunity to learn and understand the country’s robust developments and significant achievements in the field of aerospace. He also encouraged the participants to continue to work hard in the future to cultivate a sense of contributing to the country and serving the society, and become a new generation with a sense of social responsibility and contributions. Mr Chan said he believed that the experience of joining this meaningful aerospace science and research study tour will boost the participants’ sense of patriotism and national pride.
Mr Chan will depart for Heilongjiang Province today.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
The following is issued on behalf of the Legislative Council Secretariat:
The Legislative Council (LegCo) Secretariat today (July 15) released the latest issue of the Policy Pulse on “Strategies and edges of Hong Kong in hydrogen development”. This issue provides a brief overview of hydrogen energy development strategies in Hong Kong, the edges of promoting the hydrogen energy industry, the latest progress of improving relevant legislation by the Government, as well as relevant discussions of LegCo along with suggestions by Members.
LegCo will resume the Second Reading debate on the Gas Safety (Amendment) Bill 2025 tomorrow (July 16). The Bill seeks to regulate the use of hydrogen as fuel to ensure the safe application of hydrogen fuel. It also empowers the Government to introduce new subsidiary legislation to ensure the flexibility of updating the regulatory requirements. The Government intends to introduce subsidiary legislation in 2026 to cover the entire supply chain of hydrogen as fuel.
The Policy Pulse highlights that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) Government actively promotes the development of hydrogen energy, and promulgated the Strategy of Hydrogen Development in Hong Kong last year. Setting out four major strategies of improving legislation, establishing standards, aligning with the market and advancing with prudence, the Strategy aims to create an environment conducive to the development of hydrogen energy in Hong Kong in an orderly manner, so as to make preparations for the wider application of hydrogen energy in the future.
With a “zero carbon emissions” feature, hydrogen is a new energy with significant decarbonisation potential. Our country is the largest hydrogen producer in the world, and strives to achieve the “dual carbon” goals of peaking carbon emissions before 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality before 2060. The SAR Government also targets to cut carbon emissions by half from the 2005 level before 2035 and achieve carbon neutrality before 2050. The Policy Pulse points out that, with its unique advantage of enjoying strong support of the motherland and being closely connected to the world, as well as the strengths in scientific research, robust legislation and energy infrastructure, Hong Kong has very great potential to become a demonstration base for the development of hydrogen energy in the country, and facilitate the development of the hydrogen energy industry in the Belt and Road region and other overseas places. In addition, as an international financial centre, Hong Kong can help enterprises with their green transformation by providing green financing and professional services.
The Policy Pulse also introduces a number of measures by the SAR Government to support research and innovation in the hydrogen energy technology. These include setting up the Inter-departmental Working Group on Using Hydrogen as Fuel to co-ordinate the efforts in promoting the local use of hydrogen energy and initiate relevant trial projects. Meanwhile, the Government has launched several funding schemes that cover the research and development of hydrogen energy technology, and actively promotes talent training, technological exchange and application in relevant scientific and technological fields, so as to cultivate professionals with the specialised knowledge and skills to ensure the safe application of hydrogen energy technology.
LegCo Members have long attached great importance to the development of hydrogen energy in Hong Kong. In March 2023, LegCo passed a motion advocating the SAR Government to comprehensively promote the development of hydrogen energy industry in Hong Kong. The LegCo Panel on Environmental Affairs also visited hydrogen projects during its duty visit to Mainland cities in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (the Greater Bay Area) in August of the same year, and has been following up on issues related to hydrogen energy. The Policy Pulse summarises various recommendations made by Members on hydrogen energy development. These include capitalising on the strengths of Hong Kong’s financial services industry to attract capital investment in the city’s hydrogen energy industry and reserve land for development. Furthermore, the Government should take the lead in developing green industries and make use of new development areas as a springboard to bring in quality hydrogen energy industries; formulate relevant policies on hydrogen energy pricing to stimulate demand for hydrogen energy; promote carbon index certification to include hydrogen energy into Hong Kong’s carbon emissions trading market; and actively research and develop local hydrogen production technology, among others.
The Policy Pulse points out that hydrogen energy is an integral component of the country’s future energy system. Members urge the Government to collaborate with other cities in the Greater Bay Area on the joint research, development and promotion of hydrogen energy development projects to facilitate exchanges and co-operation between the two places across the hydrogen energy industrial chain, with a view to promoting the alignment of the safety monitoring and quality testing standards between Hong Kong and the Mainland. Members also advise the Government to speed up the development of a set of internationally recognised hydrogen energy certification standards, so as to assist the Greater Bay Area and even the entire hydrogen industry in the country to enter the international market.
The detailed content of “Strategies and edges of Hong Kong in hydrogen development” is available on the LegCo Website. The Policy Pulse, published by the Council Business Divisions of the LegCo Secretariat, covers specific topics and offers a comprehensive overview of related policy developments and summarised discussions in LegCo.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
A spokesman for Hong Kong Talent Engage (HKTE) said today (July 15) that to support Hong Kong’s development as an international innovation and technology (I&T) hub, HKTE had organised three online and offline career fairs during the past three weeks to proactively attract global I&T talent to pursue development in Hong Kong, with a view to contributing to building Hong Kong into an international hub for high-calibre talent.
HKTE held a online career fair last Thursday and Friday (July 10 and 11), featuring 47 renowned enterprises and organisations, to offer nearly 2 000 quality job vacancies across sectors such as data centre operations, cyber security and business analysis.
The online career fair recorded nearly 33 000 visits, featuring job-seeking talent mainly from 14 countries or regions, including the Mainland, Singapore, Malaysia, the United Kingdom, Australia, the United States, Canada, Germany, France and Switzerland, with over 3 000 curricula vitae received. To facilitate connections between job-seeking talent and employers, a one-to-one online meeting session was set up specifically at the career fair, resulting in nearly 5 000 direct dialogues.
A spokesman for the Hong Kong Cyberport Management Company Limited, one of the participating organisations, commented that the career fair facilitated effective interactions between global professionals in artificial intelligence, fintech and smart city technologies as well as digital innovation with Hong Kong employers. Nearly 90 per cent of participating enterprises and organisations expressed satisfaction with the event arrangements and indicated interest in joining future recruitment events organised by HKTE.
In addition, HKTE co-organised physical job fairs with working partners two weeks ago, including the second edition of the Hong Kong International Talents Career Expo 2025 and the NovaX Global Investmatch Carnival 2025, to connect I&T talent and entrepreneurs with employers and investors, facilitating the settlement of talent in Hong Kong.
The spokesman for HKTE added that talent is critical to the promotion of I&T development. HKTE will continue organising diverse activities to assist Hong Kong in attracting international I&T talent, including an online career fair targeting European and American markets in the second half of the year, thereby providing solid talent support for the development of the “eight centres” strategic positioning.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
A spokesman for Hong Kong Talent Engage (HKTE) said today (July 15) that to support Hong Kong’s development as an international innovation and technology (I&T) hub, HKTE had organised three online and offline career fairs during the past three weeks to proactively attract global I&T talent to pursue development in Hong Kong, with a view to contributing to building Hong Kong into an international hub for high-calibre talent.
HKTE held a online career fair last Thursday and Friday (July 10 and 11), featuring 47 renowned enterprises and organisations, to offer nearly 2 000 quality job vacancies across sectors such as data centre operations, cyber security and business analysis.
The online career fair recorded nearly 33 000 visits, featuring job-seeking talent mainly from 14 countries or regions, including the Mainland, Singapore, Malaysia, the United Kingdom, Australia, the United States, Canada, Germany, France and Switzerland, with over 3 000 curricula vitae received. To facilitate connections between job-seeking talent and employers, a one-to-one online meeting session was set up specifically at the career fair, resulting in nearly 5 000 direct dialogues.
A spokesman for the Hong Kong Cyberport Management Company Limited, one of the participating organisations, commented that the career fair facilitated effective interactions between global professionals in artificial intelligence, fintech and smart city technologies as well as digital innovation with Hong Kong employers. Nearly 90 per cent of participating enterprises and organisations expressed satisfaction with the event arrangements and indicated interest in joining future recruitment events organised by HKTE.
In addition, HKTE co-organised physical job fairs with working partners two weeks ago, including the second edition of the Hong Kong International Talents Career Expo 2025 and the NovaX Global Investmatch Carnival 2025, to connect I&T talent and entrepreneurs with employers and investors, facilitating the settlement of talent in Hong Kong.
The spokesman for HKTE added that talent is critical to the promotion of I&T development. HKTE will continue organising diverse activities to assist Hong Kong in attracting international I&T talent, including an online career fair targeting European and American markets in the second half of the year, thereby providing solid talent support for the development of the “eight centres” strategic positioning.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
The Lands Department (LandsD) announced today (July 15) that it registered 11 lease modifications and three land exchanges in the Land Registry during the quarter ending June 2025, of which five were modifications of a technical nature involving nil premium.
Among these 14 land transactions, two are located on Hong Kong Island, eight are in Kowloon and four are in the New Territories. The transactions exclude Small House cases.
There were no private treaty grants and lot extensions registered during the quarter.
The above land transactions realised a total land premium of about $102.652 million.
Transaction records of the lease modifications, land exchanges, private treaty grants and lot extensions, including those registered recently, are uploaded to the LandsD website (www.landsd.gov.hk/en/land-disposal-transaction/land-transaction.html) on a monthly basis. Details of the transactions may be obtained by searching the registered documents in the Land Registry.
Source: APO
The African Development Bank (www.AfDB.org), in partnership with the International Labour Organization, has launched a transformative system to mainstream youth employment, skills development, and entrepreneurship across its investments.
The approach, called the Youth, Jobs and Skills Marker System, is aligned with the Bank’s latest Ten-Year Strategy, which places Africa’s young people at the center of development efforts to maximize the impact of every dollar invested, turning demographics into a dividend. The Marker System ensures that Bank projects spanning diverse sectors, such as agriculture, transport, energy, water, and education, systematically incorporate components that enhance youth employability, foster entrepreneurship, and build market-relevant skills.
“The Youth, Jobs and Skills Marker System is about ensuring Africa’s young people have a real say and active role in building sustainable economies and creating jobs – not as passive recipients of youth programs,” said Dr. Beth Dunford, the Bank’s Vice President for Agriculture, Human and Social Development. “This transformation of Bank practices and systems is a step toward making sure our investments have a positive impact on Africa’s young women and men.”
The integrated system has three focus areas:
Each year, around 10 to 12 million young Africans enter the labor market, which offers only three million formal jobs annually. The Bank will prioritize youth entrepreneurship and mobilize private sector partnerships to strengthen industry-oriented skills training as well as job creation over the coming decade.
“[This initiative] is very important because it allows us to significantly contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal #8 that includes decent work for all,” said Peter van Rooij, Director of Multilateral Partnerships and Development Cooperation at the International Labour Organization. “It also allows the International Labour Organization to influence the Bank’s work, to support their lending that is more geared toward more job creation and better jobs in a sustainable way.”
The Youth, Jobs and Skills Marker System is modeled on the success of the Bank’s Gender Marker System and its online dashboard, which categorize Bank projects based on their contribution to gender equality and women’s empowerment. Similarly, the new system will feature an online platform enabling Bank staff and consultants to access real-time data for preparing country strategy papers, mid-term reviews, annual reports, project supervision, and reporting on youth-related skills, businesses and jobs outcomes.
The Bank has just launched a pilot version of the Youth, Jobs and Skills Marker System in readiness for the full implementation in 2026. This system will enhance data tracking, improve estimates of youth skills attainment and employment, strengthen labor market information systems, and support policymakers in making evidence-based decisions that drive meaningful change.
The International Labour Organization provided technical support for the system’s development with financial support from the Bank’s Youth Entrepreneurship and Innovation Multi-Donor Trust Fund. The Youth, Jobs and Skills Marker System is the first deliberate action of its kind developed by a development finance institution worldwide.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).
To learn more about the Youth, Jobs and Skills Marker System, watch this video: https://apo-opa.co/3Gs3JEZ
Media Contact:
Alphonso Van Marsh
Chief Digital Content and Events Officer
media@afdb.org
About the African Development Bank Group:
The African Development Bank Group is Africa’s premier development finance institution. It comprises three distinct entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF). On the ground in 41 African countries with an external office in Japan, the Bank contributes to the economic development and the social progress of its 54 regional member states. For more information: www.AfDB.org
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002817/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Beatrice Timgren (ECR)
Despite emerging technologies, batteries for phones sold in Europe seem to have a maximum capacity of around 5 000 mAh. Meanwhile, it is not uncommon to see identical handsets in other regions, such as Asia, with battery capacities exceeding 6 000 mAh.
Smartphone manufacturer OnePlus points to European laws and regulations regarding the transportation of single-cell batteries as the cause of this disparity[1]. The manufacturer explains that European laws affect the maximum size of a single battery cell. Manufacturers therefore either have to sell smartphones with smaller battery capacities or opt to manufacture smartphones that use dual-cell batteries.
In the light of the above:
Submitted: 10.7.2025
Source: Government of India
Source: Government of India (4)
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav wrapped up his three-day official visit to the United Arab Emirates today, delivering a compelling investment pitch that’s already generating significant interest from global investors. The Chief Minister’s packed Dubai schedule included high-level meetings with UAE government officials, business leaders, and Indian diaspora members, all focused on positioning Madhya Pradesh as India’s next major investment destination.
At the ‘Madhya Pradesh Business Investment Forum‘ hosted alongside the Indian Business and Professional Council, Dr. Yadav made his case directly to potential investors. “Madhya Pradesh invites you to invest, with endless possibilities in all sectors,” he declared, highlighting the state’s new business-friendly policies and commitment to adapting to entrepreneur needs. The Chief Minister’s promise? Businesses can launch operations within just thirty days, thanks to a dedicated Investment Facilitation Cell, reduced red tape, and a transparent land allotment system.
The numbers tell the story. Senior officials outlined the Industrial Policy 2025 and MSME Policy 2025, offering up to fifty percent support on capital expenses, complete stamp duty exemptions, and targeted subsidies across green infrastructure, research and development, exports, and industrial housing. Additional Chief Secretary Sanjay Dubey made a striking claim about the state’s high-tech push into semiconductors, space technology, and deeptech sectors. “On day one, investors in our data center sector can be cash-positive. That’s the kind of policy backing we offer,” he announced, revealing plans for new Centres of Excellence and innovative funding models.
Consul General of India in Dubai, Satish Kumar Sivan, placed the visit in broader context, calling the India-UAE relationship “one of the most consequential bilateral partnerships in the world today.” He pointed to the dramatic surge in trade since the 2022 Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, emphasizing Madhya Pradesh’s competitive advantages in agriculture, renewables, tourism, and digital economy. New opportunities are emerging too… including Bharat Mart, a logistics platform for Indian small businesses launching in Jebel Ali, and the integration of India’s UPI payment system with the UAE’s AANI network.
The Chief Minister’s diplomatic offensive included a crucial meeting with UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade Dr. Thani Bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, plus corporate discussions with heavyweights like Emirates, Lulu Group, DP World, Texmas, G42, Sharaf DG, Tata Group, and Gulf Islamic Investments. Dr. Yadav also toured key facilities including the BAPS Hindu Mandir and Dubai Textile City, culminating in a significant MoU signing with Texmas to strengthen textile and industrial collaboration.
The visit balanced business with community engagement. A cultural and networking event at JW Marriott brought together the Indian diaspora, while a tourism investment roundtable and business forum featured detailed presentations from state officials. “Madhya Pradesh, with its strength in food processing, textiles, green energy, wellness, and startups, is ready to become a hub for global business,” Dr. Yadav concluded, expressing confidence that this visit marks the beginning of a new chapter in UAE-MP economic cooperation.
The Chief Minister’s Dubai mission appears to have struck the right chord with investors and officials alike, setting the stage for what could be a significant expansion of economic ties between the UAE and one of India’s fastest-growing states.
Source: Government of India
Source: Government of India (4)
A depression over central parts of northern Rajasthan and a well-marked low-pressure area over northern Jharkhand and adjoining southern Bihar have intensified rainfall activity across several regions of India. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted heavy to very heavy rains over Rajasthan, Eastern, and Central India over the next 2–3 days.
In the past 24 hours, isolated regions in West Bengal, Jharkhand, Odisha, Kerala, Coastal Karnataka, Jammu & Kashmir, Rajasthan, Konkan, central Maharashtra, and Assam recorded heavy to very heavy rainfall (between 7 and 20 cm). Several other states, including Tamil Nadu, Bihar, eastern Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Punjab, saw heavy rainfall (between 7 and 11 cm).
The IMD has issued fresh alerts for very heavy rainfall in Jammu & Kashmir, eastern Rajasthan, Bihar, and Jharkhand on July 15 and 16. Uttarakhand is likely to receive intense showers on July 17, 20, and 21, while parts of western and eastern Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, sub-Himalayan West Bengal, Kerala, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu are also likely to see sustained rainfall in the coming days.
Delhi-NCR weather outlook
For Delhi-NCR, the IMD forecasts cloudy skies and intermittent showers accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning throughout the week:
July 15: Light rain with strong winds up to 40 kmph; maximum temperature to range between 32°C–34°C, slightly below normal.
July 16: Light to moderate rain expected; temperatures will remain between 31°C–33°C (max) and 23°C–25°C (min), both below normal.
July 17–18: Partly cloudy skies with light rain and thunderstorms; temperatures will hover around 32°C–35°C, with cooler-than-average mornings.
Winds in the region will generally blow from the southeast, with varying speeds throughout the day.
Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: Government of the Russian Federation – Government of the Russian Federation –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Primorsky Krai will present current and new investment projects, tourist attractions and transport and logistics opportunities at the Far East Street exhibition, which will be held from September 3 to 9 as part of the tenth anniversary Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok. The concept of the pavilion this year is Primorye – the Bridge of the Future. The exhibition is organized by the Roscongress Foundation with the support of the Office of the Plenipotentiary Representative of the President of the Russian Federation in the Far Eastern Federal District.
“Vladivostok, the capital of the Far Eastern Federal District, will once again welcome participants and guests of the Eastern Economic Forum. The Primorsky Territory exposition is one of the brightest and key ones at the Far East Street exhibition. Primorye is the leader in the district in terms of the number of investment projects being implemented. The key instrument for the strategic development of Primorye is the implementation of master plan activities for six cities. They will allow for a qualitative change in urban infrastructure and improve people’s lives. The development of social infrastructure is being carried out through the presidential single subsidy. The regional pavilion will tell about all of this. The region will also present a vision of the future, what this region will do to remain attractive to investors, so that as many Russians and residents of other countries as possible can visit and fall in love with the Far Eastern lands,” said Deputy Prime Minister – Presidential Plenipotentiary Representative in the Far Eastern Federal District, Chairman of the Organizing Committee of the Eastern Economic Forum Yuri Trutnev.
The Primorsky Krai exposition positions the region as a link between countries, continents and cultures. It is a territory of opportunities where large-scale projects in the field of tourism, logistics, industry and technology are implemented.
“Primorye is actively preparing for the anniversary, tenth Eastern Economic Forum – the main international event of the Asia-Pacific region. And of course, it is important for us to once again present our region from an interesting side. The EEF is, first of all, attracting investors for the development of Primorye and the entire Russian Far East. This time, we will tell potential partners about the areas in which it is profitable to cooperate with us, where to apply their efforts for the stable development of business in Primorsky Krai – one of the most dynamically developing regions of the Far Eastern Federal District. Our region has enormous potential in industry and logistics, agriculture and science, tourism and culture. We invite Russian and foreign guests to the Primorye pavilion, where our most striking projects will be presented,” said Oleg Kozhemyako, Governor of Primorsky Krai.
The general concept of the pavilion “Primorye – a bridge to the future” symbolizes the connection between the past and the future, East and West, openness to partnership, investment and innovation. The pavilion tells how the unique geographical location, natural resources and human potential make Primorsky Krai attractive for business, tourism and life over several historical eras.
The main exhibition embodies an open space of possibilities, where each zone is self-sufficient and autonomous in meaning, but at the same time supports the overall concept of the pavilion and tells about the key industries and projects of Primorsky Krai. The exterior design is inspired by the nature of the region, the wave line and seascapes. Inside, the pavilion is decorated with modern materials and many interactive multimedia tools.
Thematic zones of the region’s stand at EEF-2025 demonstrate the evolution of key industries and social transformations of Primorye with an emphasis on the region’s main achievements over the past 13 years. In honor of the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War, each site will contain references and evidence of the contribution of Vladivostok and Primorye to achieving the Great Victory.
The pavilion will feature a stand dedicated to sports projects and achievements of Primorsky Krai. Information will be posted about the curling center, the center for artistic and rhythmic gymnastics in Vladivostok, the federal-level ski resort in Arsenyev, and the development of water sports in the region. Special attention will be paid to how measures were taken to physically prepare the population in Primorsky Krai during the Great Patriotic War: sports events and competitions in football, skiing, including military ski training and multi-day ski trips, cross-country running, and obstacle course running were actively held. Primorye preserves and develops these traditions, consistently expanding its sports infrastructure and implementing physical education and sports programs.
A separate part of the exhibition will tell about key investment projects, special programs and government support measures in Primorye. The immersive zone “Transport, logistics, turn to the East” is equipped with panoramic screens and ceiling projectors that create a realistic audiovisual space. In this zone, visitors will be told about the unique geographical location of Primorsky Krai, whose Vladivostok port played a key role in ensuring supplies under the Lend-Lease program from the United States of America in 1941-1945.
In the Culture and Tourism zone, visitors will find a table with physical volumetric models of key cultural, educational and tourist sites in Primorsky Krai. A virtual tour guide will tell visitors about the projects and related programs. The key objects and initiatives on the model are the museum and theater complex on the Eagle’s Nest hill, the preservation of the Vladivostok Fortress Museum-Reserve, and the third season of the All-Russian competition for the best trip.
The Industry, Bolshoy Kamen Industrial Park zone will introduce the pavilion’s guests to the key enterprises of Primorsky Krai. An interactive hologram will allow you to choose an industrial project, after which robotic manipulators will be set in motion, demonstrating a 3D model of the object with its technical characteristics. The information will be presented in historical perspective – from the period of the Great Patriotic War to modern projects and production.
A “Science” zone will also be created. The space will demonstrate leading scientific areas, institutes and achievements of Primorye, including promising startups and innovative developments that are important for the technological development and security of the country.
The “SVO, GO and Emergencies” space will tell about the contribution of Primorsky Krai to the military-industrial complex of Russia, ensuring information and security of the population, as well as participation in a special military operation. The section will show animated videos telling about Primorye residents – heroes of the Great Patriotic War, as well as about modern soldiers participating in the SVO. The format of the materials – from documentary biographies to artistic sketches reflecting the strength of spirit, courage and dedication of the people.
The Primorsky Krai pavilion will traditionally feature daytime and evening programs. The theme of the events on the first day of the EEF-2025 will be the end of World War II. The patriotic program will feature creative groups, performers, and brass bands from the region.
In addition, the stand is planned to illustrate the theme of beekeeping development in the region. The site will be decorated with an animated interactive composition emphasizing the popularity and healing qualities of Primorsky linden honey.
Various master classes in decorative and applied arts will be organized and offered to guests. The evening program will feature performances by popular regional cover and rock bands, as well as a performance by the instrumental rhythm group of the Variety Orchestra of the Primorsky Regional Philharmonic.
The 10th Eastern Economic Forum will be held on September 3–6 at the campus of the Far Eastern Federal University in Vladivostok. During these days, the exhibition will be available to forum participants, and on September 7, 8, and 9, it will be open to everyone. The EEF is organized by the Roscongress Foundation.
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: Government of the Russian Federation – Government of the Russian Federation –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Primorsky Krai will present current and new investment projects, tourist attractions and transport and logistics opportunities at the Far East Street exhibition, which will be held from September 3 to 9 as part of the tenth anniversary Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok. The concept of the pavilion this year is Primorye – the Bridge of the Future. The exhibition is organized by the Roscongress Foundation with the support of the Office of the Plenipotentiary Representative of the President of the Russian Federation in the Far Eastern Federal District.
“Vladivostok, the capital of the Far Eastern Federal District, will once again welcome participants and guests of the Eastern Economic Forum. The Primorsky Territory exposition is one of the brightest and key ones at the Far East Street exhibition. Primorye is the leader in the district in terms of the number of investment projects being implemented. The key instrument for the strategic development of Primorye is the implementation of master plan activities for six cities. They will allow for a qualitative change in urban infrastructure and improve people’s lives. The development of social infrastructure is being carried out through the presidential single subsidy. The regional pavilion will tell about all of this. The region will also present a vision of the future, what this region will do to remain attractive to investors, so that as many Russians and residents of other countries as possible can visit and fall in love with the Far Eastern lands,” said Deputy Prime Minister – Presidential Plenipotentiary Representative in the Far Eastern Federal District, Chairman of the Organizing Committee of the Eastern Economic Forum Yuri Trutnev.
The Primorsky Krai exposition positions the region as a link between countries, continents and cultures. It is a territory of opportunities where large-scale projects in the field of tourism, logistics, industry and technology are implemented.
“Primorye is actively preparing for the anniversary, tenth Eastern Economic Forum – the main international event of the Asia-Pacific region. And of course, it is important for us to once again present our region from an interesting side. The EEF is, first of all, attracting investors for the development of Primorye and the entire Russian Far East. This time, we will tell potential partners about the areas in which it is profitable to cooperate with us, where to apply their efforts for the stable development of business in Primorsky Krai – one of the most dynamically developing regions of the Far Eastern Federal District. Our region has enormous potential in industry and logistics, agriculture and science, tourism and culture. We invite Russian and foreign guests to the Primorye pavilion, where our most striking projects will be presented,” said Oleg Kozhemyako, Governor of Primorsky Krai.
The general concept of the pavilion “Primorye – a bridge to the future” symbolizes the connection between the past and the future, East and West, openness to partnership, investment and innovation. The pavilion tells how the unique geographical location, natural resources and human potential make Primorsky Krai attractive for business, tourism and life over several historical eras.
The main exhibition embodies an open space of possibilities, where each zone is self-sufficient and autonomous in meaning, but at the same time supports the overall concept of the pavilion and tells about the key industries and projects of Primorsky Krai. The exterior design is inspired by the nature of the region, the wave line and seascapes. Inside, the pavilion is decorated with modern materials and many interactive multimedia tools.
Thematic zones of the region’s stand at EEF-2025 demonstrate the evolution of key industries and social transformations of Primorye with an emphasis on the region’s main achievements over the past 13 years. In honor of the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War, each site will contain references and evidence of the contribution of Vladivostok and Primorye to achieving the Great Victory.
The pavilion will feature a stand dedicated to sports projects and achievements of Primorsky Krai. Information will be posted about the curling center, the center for artistic and rhythmic gymnastics in Vladivostok, the federal-level ski resort in Arsenyev, and the development of water sports in the region. Special attention will be paid to how measures were taken to physically prepare the population in Primorsky Krai during the Great Patriotic War: sports events and competitions in football, skiing, including military ski training and multi-day ski trips, cross-country running, and obstacle course running were actively held. Primorye preserves and develops these traditions, consistently expanding its sports infrastructure and implementing physical education and sports programs.
A separate part of the exhibition will tell about key investment projects, special programs and government support measures in Primorye. The immersive zone “Transport, logistics, turn to the East” is equipped with panoramic screens and ceiling projectors that create a realistic audiovisual space. In this zone, visitors will be told about the unique geographical location of Primorsky Krai, whose Vladivostok port played a key role in ensuring supplies under the Lend-Lease program from the United States of America in 1941-1945.
In the Culture and Tourism zone, visitors will find a table with physical volumetric models of key cultural, educational and tourist sites in Primorsky Krai. A virtual tour guide will tell visitors about the projects and related programs. The key objects and initiatives on the model are the museum and theater complex on the Eagle’s Nest hill, the preservation of the Vladivostok Fortress Museum-Reserve, and the third season of the All-Russian competition for the best trip.
The Industry, Bolshoy Kamen Industrial Park zone will introduce the pavilion’s guests to the key enterprises of Primorsky Krai. An interactive hologram will allow you to choose an industrial project, after which robotic manipulators will be set in motion, demonstrating a 3D model of the object with its technical characteristics. The information will be presented in historical perspective – from the period of the Great Patriotic War to modern projects and production.
A “Science” zone will also be created. The space will demonstrate leading scientific areas, institutes and achievements of Primorye, including promising startups and innovative developments that are important for the technological development and security of the country.
The “SVO, GO and Emergencies” space will tell about the contribution of Primorsky Krai to the military-industrial complex of Russia, ensuring information and security of the population, as well as participation in a special military operation. The section will show animated videos telling about Primorye residents – heroes of the Great Patriotic War, as well as about modern soldiers participating in the SVO. The format of the materials – from documentary biographies to artistic sketches reflecting the strength of spirit, courage and dedication of the people.
The Primorsky Krai pavilion will traditionally feature daytime and evening programs. The theme of the events on the first day of the EEF-2025 will be the end of World War II. The patriotic program will feature creative groups, performers, and brass bands from the region.
In addition, the stand is planned to illustrate the theme of beekeeping development in the region. The site will be decorated with an animated interactive composition emphasizing the popularity and healing qualities of Primorsky linden honey.
Various master classes in decorative and applied arts will be organized and offered to guests. The evening program will feature performances by popular regional cover and rock bands, as well as a performance by the instrumental rhythm group of the Variety Orchestra of the Primorsky Regional Philharmonic.
The 10th Eastern Economic Forum will be held on September 3–6 at the campus of the Far Eastern Federal University in Vladivostok. During these days, the exhibition will be available to forum participants, and on September 7, 8, and 9, it will be open to everyone. The EEF is organized by the Roscongress Foundation.
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Source: Hong Kong Information Services
The Lands Department announced today that it registered 11 lease modifications and three land exchanges in the Land Registry during the quarter ending June 2025, and that five were technical changes involving no premium.
Of the land transactions, two are located on Hong Kong Island, eight are in Kowloon and four are in the New Territories.
There were no private treaty grants and lot extensions registered during the quarter.
The land transactions realised a total land premium of about $102.652 million.
Source: Government of Sweden
The Swedish Government is currently creating the conditions to expand development assistance to Ukraine this year and be able to respond even better to global humanitarian needs. This is being done by reprioritising both geographic and thematic assistance, freeing up nearly SEK 1.7 billion for 2025. The Government has also decided to begin phasing out the Strategy for Sweden’s development cooperation with Afghanistan and the Strategy for Sweden’s regional development cooperation with Asia and the Pacific region.
Source: Government of Sweden
The Swedish Government is currently creating the conditions to expand development assistance to Ukraine this year and be able to respond even better to global humanitarian needs. This is being done by reprioritising both geographic and thematic assistance, freeing up nearly SEK 1.7 billion for 2025. The Government has also decided to begin phasing out the Strategy for Sweden’s development cooperation with Afghanistan and the Strategy for Sweden’s regional development cooperation with Asia and the Pacific region.
Source: Government of India
Source: Government of India (4)
Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla’s space mission will play a crucial role in India’s first manned spaceflight under the Gaganyaan programme, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) said on Monday. Shukla became the first Indian in 41 years to travel to space where he undertook scientific experiments aboard the International Space Station (ISS).
“This has been an unforgettable experience for him (Shubhanshu Shukla). He carried out multiple experiments aboard the Space Shuttle and the International Space Station. After experiencing space and microgravity, he conducted several scientific tests. This mission has been a major learning opportunity for us. ISRO took up this mission to gather experience that will help us in our Gaganyaan programme,” said Nilesh M Desai, Director, Space Applications Centre, ISRO.
He added that the Gaganyaan mission will begin with an unmanned flight later this year.
“As part of our programme, we will launch an unmanned mission this year, followed by two more unmanned flights. After that, an Indian astronaut will be sent into space onboard the Gaganyaan spacecraft. The astronaut will stay in space for two to seven days and return to Earth. The experience gained by Shubhanshu Shukla during his time on the ISS will be extremely valuable for the Gaganyaan programme planned over the next two years,” he said.
According to ISRO, about Rs 600 crore were spent on the Axiom-4 mission, including astronauts training and related costs.
“Around Rs 600 crore were spent on this mission, covering training for two astronauts and other space journey preparations. The insights gained in space will help us enhance the success of the Gaganyaan mission,” Desai mentioned.
He also emphasized the importance of the India-US space cooperation and pact signed between ISRO and NASA during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s US visit.
“With the new information we have gathered, we can plan the Gaganyaan mission more effectively. This mission was done in collaboration with NASA and SpaceX. During the Indian Prime Minister’s recent visit to the US, an agreement was signed between ISRO and NASA allowing one Indian astronaut to travel to the ISS under a US mission,” said Desai.
ISRO said that although two astronauts were trained, only one went to space while the other served as a backup. “This was a planned mission by ISRO. Two Indian astronauts were given comprehensive training in the US over five to six months for space travel. Both completed their full training, but only one was chosen to go to the ISS. The other served as a backup,” he further added.
“Shubhanshu Shukla was accompanied by another astronaut, Prashant Nair, who was fully prepared to step in if needed. However, there was no requirement for that. Shukla was launched aboard the Dragonfly spacecraft using the Falcon launch vehicle from SpaceX on June 25. It docked with the International Space Station on June 26. He conducted various scientific experiments during his space mission, and today the spacecraft was undocked. We are hopeful it will return safely to Earth at 3 PM IST on July 15,” Desai said.
The undocking of AX-4 mission took place at around 4:35 AM IST on Monday with assistance from the ISS. After travelling for over 22 and a half hours, the Dragonfly spacecraft is expected to land on the California coast at 3 PM IST. Following recovery, the astronauts will undergo medical check-ups and rehabilitation.
(ANI)
Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Moscow entrepreneurs are strengthening their positions in the global market of healthy food products. With the support of the Moscow Export Center (MEC), protein and fruit bars, muesli, cereals, breads and other capital products are supplied to more than 20 countries, including China, the UAE, India, Brazil and the CIS countries.
In 2024 and the first half of 2025, the volume of healthy food exports from Moscow supported by the MEC exceeded 1.3 billion rubles.
“There is a growing demand among consumers for healthy food products. In a highly competitive market, not only the natural composition is important, but also the overall compliance of the product with the expectations of the target audience. The wide geography of Moscow healthy food products exports speaks of the trust of foreign consumers in goods produced in Moscow,” she noted.
Kristina Kostroma, Head of the Department of Entrepreneurship and Innovative Development of Moscow.
As part of the implementation of export support programs, the Moscow company Snaksi received the opportunity to enter the international online trading platform 1688.com. As a result of the placement, a contract was concluded for the supply of protein bars and healthy chocolate to China.
The Melas company took advantage of the support service of a representative of the Moscow Export Center in China, ultimately concluding a contract for the supply of Dr. Körner crispbreads, already well known to Russian consumers, to China.
SVD-Group successfully presented its products at the Gulfood 2024 international exhibition. The result was a contract for the supply of muesli, crispbread, bran and freeze-dried berries to the UAE.
As part of the promotion of products of capital exporters with the support of the MEC, Moscow producers of healthy food take part in international festivals and fairs “Made in Russia” in friendly countries. These events are held jointly with the Russian Export Center. Products of Moscow companies were presented at four major fairs in China and the UAE, which were held from November 2024 to May 2025.
The Moscow Export Center was established by the Moscow Government in 2017 to provide financial and non-financial support measures to Moscow entrepreneurs in order to promote Moscow goods and services on foreign markets. The Moscow Export Center is a subordinate organization Department of Entrepreneurship and Innovative DevelopmentOne of its key tasks is to increase the number of Moscow exporters and grow their export revenue.
Today, the MEC provides the capital’s business with comprehensive support at all stages of the export route – from preparation and training in foreign economic activity (FEA) to promotion abroad, assistance in increasing sales of financial incentives for FEA after concluding export contracts. Currently, the MEC’s toolkit includes more than 30 support measures.
Sergei Sobyanin told how Moscow helps the capital’s business develop
Get the latest news quickly official telegram channel the city of Moscow.
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
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Source: World Health Organisation
The World Health Organization (WHO) has validated Senegal as having eliminated trachoma as a public health problem. Senegal becomes the ninth country in WHO’s African Region to have achieved this feat.
“I commend Senegal for freeing its population from this disease”, said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. “This milestone is yet another sign of the remarkable progress being made against neglected tropical diseases globally, and offers hope to other countries still working to eliminate trachoma.”
Trachoma has been known in Senegal since the early 1900s and was confirmed as a major cause of blindness through surveys in the 1980s and 1990s. Senegal joined the WHO Alliance for the Global Elimination of Trachoma in 1998, conducted its first national survey in 2000, and completed full disease mapping by 2017 with support from the Global Trachoma Mapping Project and Tropical Data. Trachoma control was consistently integrated into national eye health programmed, first under the National Program for Blindness Prevention (PNLC) and later through the National Program for the Promotion of Eye Health (PNPSO) – maintaining its commitment to trachoma elimination.
“Today we celebrate our victory against trachoma, 21 years after the one against dracunculiasis” said Dr Ibrahima Sy, Senegal’s Minister of Health and Social Action. “This new milestone reminds us that our overarching goal remains a Senegal free from neglected tropical diseases. We are fully committed to this, and we are making good progress, notably against human African trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness) and onchocerciasis”.
Senegal implemented the WHO-recommended SAFE strategy to eliminate trachoma with the support of partners, reaching 2.8 million people who needed them across 24 districts. These activities included provision of surgery to treat the late blinding stage of the disease, conducting antibiotic mass drug administration of azithromycin donated by Pfizer through the International Trachoma Initiative, carrying out public awareness campaigns to promote facial cleanliness, and improvement in access to water supply and sanitation.
Trachoma is the second neglected tropical disease to be eliminated in Senegal. In 2004, the country was certified free of dracunculiasis (Guinea-worm disease) transmission. Globally, Senegal joins 24 other countries that have been validated by WHO for having eliminated trachoma as a public health problem. These are Benin, Burundi, Cambodia, China, Gambia, Islamic Republic of Iran, Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Ghana, India, Iraq, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Mexico, Morocco, Myanmar, Nepal, Oman, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, Saudi Arabia, Togo, Vanuatu and Viet Nam. These countries are part of a wider of group of 57 countries that have eliminated one or more neglected tropical diseases.
WHO is supporting Senegal’s health authorities to closely monitor communities in which trachoma was previously endemic to ensure there is no resurgence of the disease.
“Trachoma has cast a shadow over communities in Senegal for more than a century. This long-awaited validation is not only a milestone for public health but a powerful tribute to the tireless dedication of frontline health workers, communities, government leaders, and partners who never gave up,” said Dr Jean-Marie Vianny Yameogo, WHO Representative in Senegal. “Today, we close a chapter that began over a hundred years ago, united with pride, gratitude and resolve. WHO remains committed to supporting Senegal as the country continues to lead in sustaining this hard-earned achievement.”
Trachoma remains a public health problem in 32 countries, with an estimated 103 million people living in areas requiring interventions against the disease. Trachoma is found mainly in the poorest and most rural areas of Africa, Central and South America, Asia, the Western Pacific and the Middle East. WHO’s African Region is disproportionately affected by trachoma, with 93 million people living in at-risk areas in April 2024, representing 90% of the global trachoma burden.
Significant progress has been made in the fight against trachoma over the past few years and the number of people requiring antibiotic treatment for trachoma in the African Region fell by 96 million from 189 million in 2014 to 93 million as of April 2024, representing a 51% reduction.
There are currently 20 countries (Algeria, Angola, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Central Africa Republic, Chad, Côte d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Guinea, Kenya, Mozambique, Niger, Nigeria, South Sudan, United Republic of Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe) in WHO’s African Region that are known to require intervention for trachoma elimination. A further 3 countries in the Region (Botswana, Guinea-Bissau and Namibia) claim to have achieved the prevalence targets for elimination.
Editor’s note
Trachoma is a neglected tropical disease. It is caused by infection with the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis, which spreads from person to person through contaminated surfaces , fomites and flies that have come into contact with discharge from the eyes or nose of an infected person.
Environmental risk factors for trachoma transmission include poor hygiene, overcrowded households, and inadequate access to water and sanitation.
To eliminate trachoma as a public health problem, WHO recommends the SAFE strategy: a comprehensive approach to reduce transmission of the causative organism, clear existing infections and deal with their effects. The SAFE strategy consists of surgery to treat the blinding complication (trachomatous trichiasis); antibiotics to clear the infection, particularly mass drug administration of the antibiotic azithromycin (which has been donated by the manufacturer, Pfizer, to elimination programmes through the International Trachoma Initiative); facial cleanliness; and environmental improvement, particularly improving access to water and sanitation.
The road map for neglected tropical diseases 2021–2030 targets the prevention, control, elimination and eradication of 20 diseases and disease groups by 2030. Progress against trachoma and other neglected tropical diseases alleviates the human and economic burden that they impose on the world’s most disadvantaged communities.
Source: Government of India
Source: Government of India (4)
Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and AIIMS Bibinagar on Monday jointly unveiled India’s first indigenously designed and developed cost-effective advanced carbon fibre foot prosthesis.
The prosthetic device, named AIIMS Bibinagar – DRDL, DRDO Indigenously Developed Optimised Carbon Foot Prosthesis (ADIDOC), was officially launched at a ceremony held at AIIMS Bibinagar. The unveiling was led by Dr. GA Srinivasa Murthy, Scientist and Director of DRDO’s Defence Research & Development Laboratory (DRDL), along with Dr. Ahanthem Santa Singh, Executive Director of AIIMS Bibinagar.
Developed under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, ADIDOC represents a major technological and humanitarian breakthrough. The prosthesis has been biomechanically tested to endure loads of up to 125 kg, with a strong factor of safety. It comes in three variants tailored for patients of different body weights, making it versatile and inclusive.
What makes ADIDOC particularly significant is its cost-efficiency. While similar international carbon fibre foot prosthetics currently cost around ₹2 lakh, the production cost of ADIDOC is projected to be under ₹20,000. This dramatic reduction in cost is expected to revolutionize access to high-performance prosthetics for low-income amputees across India.
“The development of ADIDOC is not just a technological achievement but also a meaningful step toward greater social inclusion for people with disabilities,” said Dr. Srinivasa Murthy at the launch. “It will reduce India’s dependency on expensive imported prosthetics and make high-quality mobility solutions more accessible.”
Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BEIJING, July 15 (Xinhua) — A special session on Central Asia was held on Monday at the Conference on International Cooperation in Industrial and Supply Chains of East China’s Shandong Province in Jinan, the provincial capital, local daily Dazhong Ribao reported.
The event was organized by the Shandong Provincial Bureau of Commerce with the support of the Shandong Alliance for Overseas Investment and Cooperation. More than 160 people from 16 cities in the province attended.
The special session aims to create a platform for exchanges and interactions between enterprises, and thereby further deepen cooperation between Shandong Province and Central Asia in industrial and supply chains through formats such as policy clarification, experience sharing, project presentation and B2B sessions.
As an economically developed province in China, Shandong has a complete production base and a developed supply chain system. It demonstrates high complementarity and significant potential for cooperation with Central Asian countries in energy, agriculture, manufacturing, etc.
According to statistics, in the first half of 2025, Shandong Province’s actual investment in the five Central Asian countries reached 19.91 million US dollars, an increase of 62.1 percent year on year. This figure for the whole of 2024 was 20.836 million US dollars, an increase of 62.7 percent.
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
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