NewzIntel.com

Category: CTF

  • India’s strong domestic market cushions economy against global trade shocks: Report

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India is in a stronger position than other countries to withstand global trade disruptions, in the wake of the US tariff turmoil, due to the large size of its domestic market and the country’s low dependence on goods exports, according to a Moody’s report released on Wednesday.

    The report points out that the government initiatives, such as increasing infrastructure investment, steps taken to boost private consumption, will help shield India’s economy from weakening global demand.

    “India’s large domestic economy and limited exposure to global goods trade puts it in a stronger position to absorb external shocks,” the report said.

    Some sectors — like automobiles, which export to the US — may encounter global headwinds, despite their diversified operations. But India’s robust services sector and large domestic economy provide strong buffers, according to the report.

    The report also states that declining inflation is expected to pave the way for a soft monetary policy with interest rate cuts to spur growth. The banking sector also has sufficient liquidity to support credit growth, according to the report.

    The Moody’s report also observes that the recent India-Pakistan tensions are more likely to weigh on Pakistan’s economy than India’s. The key economic hubs in India are far from the conflict zones, and bilateral economic ties remain limited.

    However, a prolonged escalation could lead to increased defence spending, which might slow fiscal consolidation efforts and impact government finances, the report added.

    Moody’s Ratings had earlier this month pegged India’s GDP growth at 6.3 per cent for 2025 and expects the economy to pick up momentum in 2026 to record a 6.5 per cent growth rate. The forecast is in line with the IMF outlook, which sees India as the only major economy in the world to record an over 6 per cent growth rate in 2025. (IANS)

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Success at the Museums + Heritage Awards for The D-Day Story

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    The Portsmouth Museums retail team have won the ‘Shop of the Year’ category at Museums + Heritage Awards for their ‘remarkable’ turnaround of the D-Day Story shop.

    The award-winning D-Day Story shop

    The prestigious awards celebrate the very best in the world of museums, galleries, and cultural and heritage visitor attractions.

    The Portsmouth Museums retail team won the award for its refit in May 2024 ahead of the 80th anniversary of D-Day, in a tough category which included The National Gallery and National Football Museum.

    Judges from the awards said: “A remarkable turnaround achieved on a shoestring budget and in record time. This small but mighty team combined creativity, smart merchandising, and huge enthusiasm to deliver impressive profits and a sustained return on investment!”

    Cllr Steve Pitt, Leader of Portsmouth City Council City Council said:

    “The changes to the shop took place against the backdrop of one of the busiest years ever of the museums history as the world commemorated the 80th anniversary of D-Day. The project was completed at a minimal cost and against a tight deadline. Congratulations to all involved.”

    Bernard Donoghue OBE, Director of the Leading Association of Visitor Attractions said: “The judges were hugely impressed with so many aspects of this award-winning shop transformation – the ambition, the buy-in from all of the team, the speed of the transition, the commitment and passion of everyone who played a role in this transformation and, ultimately, the huge success of a brilliant retail space. Everyone involved should be very proud of what has been achieved and other museums – big and small – should look and learn!”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK House Price Index for March 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government Non-Ministerial Departments

    Press release

    UK House Price Index for March 2025

    The UK HPI shows house price changes for England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

    The March data shows:

    • on average, house prices have risen 1.1% since February 2025
    • there has been an annual price rise of 6.4% which makes the average property in the UK valued at £271,000

    England

    In England, the March Data shows on average, house prices rose by 1.3% since February 2025. The annual price rise of 6.7% takes the average property value to £296,000.

    • The North East experienced the most significant monthly increase with a movement of 4.2%
    • London saw the greatest monthly price fall, with a fall of -0.3%
    • The North East experienced the greatest annual price rise, up by 14.3%
    • London saw the lowest annual price growth, with a rise of 0.8%

    The regional data for England indicates that:

    Price change by region for England

    Region Average price March 2025 Annual change % since March 2024 Monthly change % since February 2025
    East Midlands £244,000 7.1 0.7
    East of England £344,000 6.5 1.4
    London £552,000 0.8 -0.3
    North East £168,000 14.3 4.2
    North West £217,000 9.4 2.5
    South East £386,000 5.3 0.7
    South West £311,000 5.3 0.7
    West Midlands £250,000 7.8 1.2
    Yorkshire and the Humber £211,000 9.5 2.0

    Repossession sales by volume for England

    The lowest number of repossession sales in January 2025 was in the South West.

    The highest number of repossession sales in January 2025 was in the North East.

    Repossession sales January 2025
    East Midlands 6
    East of England 5
    London 15
    North East 20
    North West 11
    South East 12
    South West 1
    West Midlands 6
    Yorkshire and the Humber 14
    England 90

    Average price by property type for England

    Property type March 2025 March  2024 Difference %
    Detached £471,000 £448,000 5
    Semi-detached £291,000 £268,000 8.5
    Terraced £247,000 £228,000 8.4
    Flat/maisonette £231,000 £222,000 3.9
    All £296,000 £277,000 6.7

    Funding and buyer status for England

    Transaction type Average price March 2025 Annual price change % since March 2024 Monthly price change % since January 2025
    Cash £282,000 6 1.2
    Mortgage £301,000 7.1 1.3
    First-time buyer £250,000 7.7 1.9
    Former owner occupier £356,000 5.6 0.5

    Building status for England

    Building status* Average price January 2025 Annual price change % since January 2024 Monthly price change % since December 2025
    New build £416,000 17.4 -1.1
    Existing resold property £285,000 3.6  

    *Figures for the 2 most recent months are not being published because there are not enough new build transactions to give a meaningful result.

    London

    London shows, on average, house prices decreased by 0.3% since Jan 2025. House prices have shown an annual price increase of 0.8% meaning the average price of a property is £552,000.

    Average price by property type for London

    Property type March 2025 March 2024 Difference %
    Detached £1,097,000 £1,099,000 -0.3
    Semi-detached £694,000 £669,000 3.7
    Terraced £620,000 £606,000 2.2
    Flat/maisonette £444,000 £447,000 -0.7
    All £552,000 £547,000 0.8

    Funding and buyer status for London

    Transaction type Average price March 2025 Annual price change % since March 2024 Monthly price change % since February 2025
    Cash £583,000 -2.1 -0.7
    Mortgage £546,000 1.7 -0.2
    First-time buyer £477,000 1.4 0.5
    Former owner occupier £677,000 -0.1 -1.6

    Building status for London

    Building status* Average price January 2025 Annual price change % since January 2024 Monthly price change % since December 2024
    New build £564,000 11.9 -0.7
    Existing resold property £561,000 1.5 1.2

    *Figures for the 2 most recent months are not being published because there are not enough new build transactions to give a meaningful result.

    Wales

    Wales shows, on average, house prices fell by 0.2% since February 2025. An annual price increase of 3.6% takes the average property value to £208,000

    There were 3 repossession sales for Wales in January 2025.

    Average price by property type for Wales

    Property type March 2025 March 2024 Difference %
    Detached £321,000 £318,000 0.9
    Semi-detached £208,000 £198,000 4.9
    Terraced £166,000 £158,000 4.9
    Flat/maisonette £133,000 £129,000 3.1
    All £208,000 £201,000 3.6

    Funding and buyer status for Wales

    Transaction type Average price March 2025% Annual price change % since March 2024 Monthly price change % since December 2024
    Cash £208,000 2.7 0.3
    Mortgage £208,000 4.1 0.2
    First-time buyer £180,000 4.6 0.6
    Former owner occupier £247,000 2.4 -0.3

    Building status for Wales

    Building status* Average price January 2025 Annual price change % since January 2024 Monthly price change % since December 2024
    New build £355,000 19.9 -0.5
    Existing resold property £206,000 4.9 0.9

    *Figures for the 2 most recent months are not being published because there are not enough new build transactions to give a meaningful result.

    UK house prices

    UK house prices rose by 6.4% in the year to March 2025, up from the revised estimate of 5.5% in the 12 months to Feb 2025. On a non-seasonally adjusted basis, average house prices in the UK increased by 1.1% between February 2025 and March 2025, compared with a increase 0.2% from the same period 12 months ago (February 24 and March 2024).

    The UK Property Transactions Statistics showed that in March 2025, on a seasonally adjusted basis, the estimated number of transactions of residential properties with a value of £40,000 or greater was 177,000. This is 104.3% higher than a year ago (March 2025). Between February 2025 and March 25, UK transactions increased by 61.7% on a seasonally adjusted basis.

    House price monthly increase was highest in The North East where prices increased by 4.2% in the year to March 2025. The highest annual growth was in the The North East, where prices increased by 14.3% in the year to March 2025.

    See the economic statement.

    The UK HPI is based on completed housing transactions. Typically, a house purchase can take 6 to 8 weeks to reach completion. As with other indicators in the housing market, which typically fluctuate from month to month, it is important not to put too much weight on one month’s set of house price data.

    Access the full UK HPI

    Background

    1. We publish the UK House Price Index (HPI) on the second or third Wednesday of each month with Northern Ireland figures updated quarterly. We will publish the April 2025 UK HPI at 9:30am on Wednesday 18 June 2025. See calendar of release dates.
    2. We have made some changes to improve the accuracy of the UK HPI. We are not publishing average price and percentage change for new builds and existing resold property as done previously because there are not currently enough new build transactions to provide a reliable result. This means that in this month’s UK HPI reports, new builds and existing resold property are reported in line with the sales volumes currently available.
    3. The UK HPI revision period has been extended to 13 months, following a review of the revision policy (see calculating the UK HPI section 4.4). This ensures the data used is more comprehensive.
    4. Sales volume data is available by property status (new build and existing property) and funding status (cash and mortgage) in our downloadable data tables. Transactions that require us to create a new register, such as new builds, are more complex and require more time to process. Read revisions to the UK HPI data.
    5. Revision tables are available for England and Wales within the downloadable data in CSV format. See about the UK HPI for more information.
    6. HM Land Registry, Registers of Scotland, Land & Property Services/Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency and the Valuation Office Agency supply data for the UK HPI.
    7. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) and Land & Property Services/Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency calculate the UK HPI. It applies a hedonic regression model that uses the various sources of data on property price, including HM Land Registry’s Price Paid Dataset, and attributes to produce estimates of the change in house prices each month. Find out more about the methodology used from the ONS and Northern Ireland Statistics & Research Agency.
    8. We take the UK Property Transaction statistics  from the HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) monthly estimates of the number of residential and non-residential property transactions in the UK and its constituent countries. The number of property transactions in the UK is highly seasonal, with more activity in the summer months and less in the winter. This regular annual pattern can sometimes mask the underlying movements and trends in the data series. HMRC presents the UK aggregate transaction figures on a seasonally adjusted basis. We make adjustments for both the time of year and the construction of the calendar, including corrections for the position of Easter and the number of trading days in a particular month.
    9. UK HPI seasonally adjusted series are calculated at regional and national levels only. See data tables.
    10. The first estimate for new build average price (April 2016 report) was based on a small sample which can cause volatility. A three-month moving average has been applied to the latest estimate to remove some of this volatility.
    11. The UK HPI reflects the final transaction price for sales of residential property. Using the geometric mean, it covers purchases at market value for owner-occupation and buy-to-let, excluding those purchases not at market value (such as re-mortgages), where the ‘price’ represents a valuation.
    12. HM Land Registry provides information on residential property transactions for England and Wales, collected as part of the official registration process for properties that are sold for full market value.
    13. The HM Land Registry dataset contains the sale price of the property, the date when the sale was completed, full address details, the type of property (detached, semi-detached, terraced or flat), if it is a newly built property or an established residential building and a variable to indicate if the property has been purchased as a financed transaction (using a mortgage) or as a non-financed transaction (cash purchase).
    14. Repossession sales data is based on the number of transactions lodged with HM Land Registry by lenders exercising their power of sale.
    15. For England, we show repossession sales volume recorded by government office region. For Wales, we provide repossession sales volume for the number of repossession sales.
    16. Repossession sales data is available from April 2016 in CSV format. Find out more information about repossession sales.
    17. We publish CSV files of the raw and cleansed aggregated data every month for England, Scotland and Wales. We publish Northern Ireland data on a quarterly basis. They are available for free use and re-use under the Open Government Licence.
    18. HM Land Registry is a government department created in 1862. Its vision is: “A world-leading property market as part of a thriving economy and a sustainable future.”
    19. HM Land Registry’s purpose is: “We protect your land ownership and provide services and data that underpin an efficient and informed property market.”
    20. HM Land Registry safeguards land and property ownership valued at £8 trillion, enabling over £1 trillion worth of personal and commercial lending to be secured against property across England and Wales. The Land Register contains more than 26.5 million titles showing evidence of ownership for more than 89% of the land mass of England and Wales.
    21. For further information about HM Land Registry visit www.gov.uk/land-registry.
    22. Follow us on @HMLandRegistry, our blog, LinkedIn and Facebook

    Contact

    Press Office

    Trafalgar House
    1 Bedford Park
    Croydon
    CR0 2AQ

    Email HMLRPressOffice@landregistry.gov.uk

    Phone (Monday to Friday 8:30am to 5:30pm) 0300 006 3365

    Mobile (5:30pm to 8:30am weekdays, all weekend and public holidays) 07864 689 344

    Updates to this page

    Published 21 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: GUU entered the top 10 universities in Russia in the field of “State and Municipal Administration”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    On May 20, 2025, the Interfax Information Group published the results of the annual ranking study of universities implementing educational programs in the field of training “State and Municipal Administration”. The State University of Management took 10th place in the ranking.

    In addition to state accreditation of the relevant educational programs and their implementation in full-time form at the bachelor’s and master’s levels, universities had to publish at least 10 articles on social sciences in journals on the list of the Higher Attestation Commission over the past three years, and the graduation for each program in 2024 had to be at least five people.

    The assessment was carried out based on 10 indicators, summarized into a single 1000-point scale.

    The State University of Management has moved up two positions compared to last year.

    Congratulations to the Department of Public and Municipal Administration of the State University of Management on the excellent result!

    The rating can be found on the Interfax website.

    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 –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: “Feel the atmosphere of different cultures”: Orientalist Day held at HSE

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: State University Higher School of Economics – State University Higher School of Economics –

    On May 17, the HSE Center of Cultures hosted the eleventh Oriental Crazy Day, organized by Faculty of World Economy and World Politics (FMEiMP) HSE. Anyone interested in the East, its culture and languages, as well as admission to HSE could become a guest. Students and teachers of the university prepared master classes, quizzes and competitions. And here you could also see K-pop dances and kabuki theater, hear oriental songs and poetry.

    At the festival, everyone was able to immerse themselves in the diversity of Eastern culture. Guests learned the intricacies of Arabic, Japanese and Turkish calligraphy, told fortunes using the Book of Changes and Thai sticks, and made traditional Korean norigae pendants and aromatic bags. The program also included a master class in water painting using the famous Turkish ebru technique and Hawaiian dance lessons. In addition, as part of the festival, the OP “Oriental Studies“, where applicants learned about the requirements for applicants and the specifics of studying at HSE.

    The festival ended with a bright concert with fiery dances in the K-pop style, oriental songs and poetry, as well as a performance by the Kabuki theater. “This is not the first, not the second, not even the tenth year that this huge festival has been held for those who love, know and study the East. What we see on stage today beckons and attracts in the East, and I hope that there will be even more people who want to discover this amazing world,” Anastasia Likhacheva, Dean of the Faculty of World Economy and World Politics at the National Research University Higher School of Economics, addressed the guests.

    The guests shared their emotions and impressions of the holiday with the Vyshka.Glavnoe news service.

    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 –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Conference “IQ Project 2025”: new ideas, large-scale geography and best practices

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    The IV All-Russian educational and scientific conference “IQ Project 2025” was held at the Higher School of Project Activity and Innovations in Industry of the Institute of Mechanical Engineering, Materials and Transport of SPbPU. This year, the conference broke its own records in the number of participants and expanded its geography. Representatives of SPbPU, NSU, LETI, RUT, MISiS, ISU, MFUA, SFU, KNITU, HSE, GUU, SPbGUP, KU, RUDN, Moscow Polytechnic University, OSU, GUAP took part in it.

    For the first time, representatives of companies took part in the scientific part of the conference.

    The guests and speakers of the first day of the conference were:

    Gleb Subbotin (business analyst at Gazpromneft ITO); Oleg Suvorov (head of corporate clients at 1C:North-West); Dinara Kamolova (ambassador of the process approach); Oksana Murzaeva (head of project portfolio at Norilsk Nickel).

    The day ended with a quiz, in which participants could demonstrate their erudition, compete and win prizes. A round table on the topic of “The Image of a 1C Specialist in the Eyes of Employers and Students” was also held.

    On the second day of the conference, the speakers were Igor Vlasov (senior product manager at Yandex Technologies, previously Avito, Toyota, VW) and Marina Bolsunovskaya (head of the Industrial Stream Data Processing Systems laboratory).

    Next, a plenary session was held, at which the best reports of the conference were presented:

    Dinara Kamolova, “Application of quality management tools in the IT industry” Assistant of the Higher School of Psychology and Information Technologies Zhanna Burlutskaya, “Modeling multi-agent interactions in the process of conducting intonation activities in network associations of technology companies” Assistant of the Higher School of Psychology and Information Technologies Kapiton Pospelov, “Method for assessing the limited rationality of agents in the problems of managing innovative projects” Assistant of the Higher School of Psychology and Information Technologies Salbek Beketov, “Algorithm for forming a portfolio of projects taking into account the optimal distribution of labor resources on individual projects”.

    The day ended with presentations by participants in the conference sections.

    The best reports in the sections this year were:

    Section “Corporate Information Systems” — Natalia Ilyina, report “Personalization of the educational process in an inclusive school using an information and analytical system developed on the “1C:Enterprise 8.3” platform. Section “Mathematical models of decision-making” — Liya Khabibullina, report “Algorithm for calculating crews to fulfill an airline schedule, taking into account legislative restrictions”. Section “Product management and advanced practices in training management personnel” — Irina Romanova, report “Research of product backlog prioritization methods”. Section “Management in organizational systems” — Polina Sharko, report “Application of a multi-agent approach in managing decentralized organizational systems”. Section “Innovation management” — Gleb Subbotin, report “Integration of physically informed neural networks and hydrodynamic models to improve the accuracy of reservoir situation forecasting”. Section “Quality Management” — Artem Nigmatulin, report “The concept of a simulation model of inventory management processes at an enterprise in the field of electronics”. Section “Project Management and Project Activities” — Alexey Nikitin, report “From Risk to Opportunity: Managing Positive Risks in Project Activities”, and Vadim Bulushev, report “Multi-agent neural network approach to improving project content management processes in the company “UNISTORY.LLC”.

    All abstracts of reports that have passed the review will be published in a collection indexed in the Russian Science Citation Index. The best ones will be recommended for publication in VAK journals.

    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 –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Rapidly shifting geopolitical environment could test euro area financial stability

    Source: European Central Bank

    21 May 2025

    • Shifts in global trade policy lead to sharp increase in uncertainty, causing large spikes in financial market volatility
    • Stretched valuations and low non-bank liquidity buffers leave financial markets vulnerable to further shocks
    • Escalating trade tensions could adversely affect euro area firms and households, entailing credit risk for banks and non-banks
    • Government finances may be negatively impacted by increased defence spending, although boost to growth cannot be excluded

    A marked spike in uncertainty across global trade, defence, international cooperation and regulation policies could prove challenging for financial stability, according to the May 2025 Financial Stability Review, published today by the European Central Bank (ECB). Frequent shifts and reversals in tariff policy, alongside significant changes in the geopolitical environment, could have major economic and financial impacts. While global macroeconomic imbalances remain a long-standing issue in the policy debate, it is not clear that tariffs are the best-placed policy instrument to address them.

    “Rising trade frictions and related downside risks to economic growth are weighing on the outlook for financial stability”, said ECB Vice-President Luis de Guindos.

    The significant increase in trade policy uncertainty and trade frictions triggered large spikes in financial market volatility and raised the risk of an economic slowdown.

    Financial markets across the globe sold off at an unsettling speed in early April, and financial conditions tightened notably. While risky assets had fully recovered their initial losses by mid-May, markets are still highly sensitive to tariff-related news. Equity markets in particular remain vulnerable to sudden and sharp adjustments as valuations are still high and concerns over risk concentrations persist. In an environment of heightened market volatility, euro area non-banks’ liquidity and leverage weaknesses could be revealed, amplifying market shocks.

    Euro area firms and households have seen their balance sheets improve in recent years, but trade tensions and a weaker growth outlook imply future headwinds. The euro area is a very open economy, and trade frictions will affect those companies that rely on foreign trade, with potential knock-on effects for households if trade-related corporate vulnerabilities are exposed and result in lay-offs. In such an environment, credit risk exposure may rise for euro area banks and non-banks, although banks’ ability to absorb further asset quality deterioration should be supported by strong profitability and sizeable capital and liquidity buffers.

    While sovereign debt-to-GDP ratios in the euro area have declined considerably after surging during the pandemic, fiscal fundamentals remain fragile in some countries. Plans to increase defence spending have the potential to boost economic growth if focused on productive investment, but could also pose risks given higher issuance needs at a time of rising funding costs. This higher defence spending, together with weaker growth and other structural challenges, such as those posed by climate change, digitalisation and ageing populations, could compound the already strained fiscal positions of some euro area governments.

    In the current highly uncertain macro-financial and policy environment, preserving and strengthening the resilience of the financial system is key. In this context, macroprudential authorities should maintain existing capital buffer requirements and borrower-based measures to ensure sound lending standards. In addition, the growing market footprint and interconnectedness of non-banks calls for a comprehensive set of policy measures that will increase the resilience of the non-bank financial intermediation sector. Such resilience across the sector would also help to advance the integration of euro area capital markets.

    For media queries, please contact Ettore Fanciulli, tel.: +49 69 1344 95012.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Inclusive play areas unveiled in time for summer fun

    Source: City of Derby

    Work to refurbish several Derby Parks play areas has been completed. The improved facilities in Arboretum Park, Brunswood Park and Bramble Brook Recreation Ground are now open for families to enjoy, while the play area at Alvaston Park is due to open in time for half term.

    Designs for the revamped play areas were shaped by feedback received during community consultations. The aim of the projects was to enhance accessibility and inclusivity, improve safety, offer more engaging play opportunities, and enhance the overall appearance of the sites.

    At Arboretum Park, an extensive upgrade has seen the majority of the old equipment removed to make way for a vibrant space designed for children of all abilities. The exciting new features include a variety of swings, a wheelchair-accessible seesaw and roundabout, a trampoline, engaging multi-play units, a zip wire, musical and sensory play equipment, a sensory footpath, and even a stage area for budding performers.

    Alvaston Park’s play area has also undergone a complete transformation and will be ready to welcome families later this week, subject to final safety checks. Almost all the old equipment has been replaced with new attractions, including space-themed multi-play units, swings, an inclusive seesaw, a wheelchair-accessible roundabout and trampoline, a zip wire, moon buggy, and various interactive play panels. A standout feature is the Titan swing, a circular swing with five different ‘seats’, promoting collaborative play.

    In Spondon, the community will benefit from a new accessible and inclusive play area at Brunswood Park. The thoughtfully-designed space features a toddler and a junior multi-play unit, swings, an inclusive roundabout, play panels, nature-inspired sculptures, and a zip wire.

    The play area at Bramble Brook Recreation Ground

    Over in Mickleover, Bramble Brook play area has also received an upgrade. Key improvements include the installation of new inclusive play equipment, new safety fencing and surfacing, new accessible seating, new signage, plus the refurbishment of the embankment slide and paths. 

    The projects have been funded through a combination of the Council’s Parks Capital Programme Fund, Section 106 funding (developer contributions), with Arboretum also receiving National Lottery Awards for All Funding.

    Councillor Ndukwe Onuoha, Derby City Council Cabinet Member for Streetpride, Community Safety and Leisure, said:

    Our Derby Parks team has worked closely with parks’ Friends groups to create play areas that meet the needs of our communities, and we’d like to that them for their support and hard work. 

    These newly refurbished play areas represent a significant investment in the well-being and enjoyment of our children and families, providing inclusive and engaging spaces for outdoor recreation. We’d encourage people to visit the parks and experience the fantastic new facilities.

    Derby Parks team is now seeking feedback from the community on proposed improvements at Willowcroft Road Recreation Ground, Spondon, which will be funded by Section 106 developer contributions. To give your views, fill out the online survey. For more information or a paper copy, please email parks@derby.gov.uk or call 01332 640789. The consultation closes at noon on Thursday 12 June 2025.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Moscow digital cinema platform used 2.5 million times

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Digital platform “Moschino” has been visited 2.5 million times since its launch in the fall of 2023. There, film industry representatives can apply for filming approval, select suitable locations and props, and city residents and tourists can sign up for excursions and master classes, learn about creative meetings and other events. This was reported by Natalia Sergunina, Deputy Mayor of Moscow.

    “The platform has already attracted 800 thousand unique users. It is in demand not only among industry professionals and students of specialized universities, but also among everyone interested in cinema,” said Natalia Sergunina.

    More than half of the views are on the page dedicated to family and friends at the Moskino cinema park. It contains a schedule of immersive performances, exhibitions, introductory walks and other events. For example, one of the excursions, the Cinema Expedition, includes a visit to the sets of the Ivan the Great Bell Tower and the Terem Palace of the Moscow Kremlin, a real Tu-154 aircraft and the largest chromakey in Europe.

    Filmmakers especially enjoy the section with descriptions of almost 700 city filming locations and a booking service. Among them are streets, parks, squares, train stations, cultural institutions, estates, pavilions of the Gorky Film Studio, the Moskino film factory and other places.

    Experts can use a catalogue of 60 thousand props, including modern and historical costumes, furniture, props, equipment and other items from different eras.

    The service also has a section for those who want to build a career in the industry. It presents programs of specialized educational institutions and courses for actors, scriptwriters, editors, cameramen and other specialists in this field.

    The capital pays great attention to the development of the industry within the framework of the Mayor’s project “Moscow – the city of cinema”. The structure of the Moscow film cluster already includes enter Gorky Film Studio (locations on Sergei Eisenstein Street and Valdai Passage), a chain of cinemas, a film park and the Moskino film factory.

    The Moskino film commission helps organize filming in the city. Since the beginning of the year, it has received more than a thousand applications – 53 percent more than a year ago. One of the most popular filming locations is the Moskino cinema park. In just three months, 15 projects were implemented here.

    Get the latest news quickly official telegram channel the city of Moscow.

    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.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/154123073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Investors leased more than 30 properties from the city to open private schools and kindergartens

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The city has concluded more than 30 lease agreements with entrepreneurs for buildings and premises under the “1 ruble per square meter per year” program for opening private educational organizations. This was reported by the Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Urban Development Policy and Construction Vladimir Efimov.

    “The program “1 ruble per square meter per year” for opening kindergartens and schools has been in effect in the capital since 2013. At present, 31 real estate lease agreements with a total area of 44.3 thousand square meters have been concluded with investors. Thanks to the program, 24 private educational institutions are already operating in the capital. Entrepreneurs occupy 36.1 thousand square meters of space at a preferential rate, which allows them to save over 600 million rubles annually,” said Vladimir Efimov.

    Under the program “1 ruble per square meter per year” for educational facilities, the city puts up buildings and premises in different areas of the capital for specialized auctions. The winner is determined by the highest rent price that he is willing to pay during the renovation and preparation for the opening of the institution. After restoration work and fulfillment of all requirements of the capital Department of Education and Science The tenant can switch to a preferential rate of one ruble per square meter per year. The total term of the lease agreement is 49 years.

    “At seven sites with a total area of over 8.2 thousand square meters, entrepreneurs continue preparatory work to open private educational institutions. They will appear in the north, northwest, southeast of Moscow, as well as in the Novomoskovsky administrative district. Since the beginning of 2025 alone, two buildings have been transferred to the winners of the tenders – this is almost 1.8 thousand square meters. In Shcherbinka, it is planned to open a school for 150 students, and in the Voykovsky district – a kindergarten for 30 pupils,” she noted.

    Ekaterina Solovieva, Minister of the Moscow Government, Head of the Moscow Department of City Property.

    According to the head of the capital’s Department of Competition Policy Kirill Purtov, the demand for city premises for opening educational institutions under the preferential program is confirmed by statistics. In 2024, the average competition at auctions for the right to lease such facilities was five participants per lot.

    More information about current offers from the city, including preferential programs, is published onMoscow investment portal. To participate in the auction, you will need to register on the electronic trading platform. “RoselTorg” and enhanced qualified electronic signature.

    How educational institutions save on rent thanks to the cityHow the preferential rent program helps capital entrepreneurs save money

    The development of electronic services for entrepreneurs is being implemented within the framework of the national project “Data Economy”.

    Get the latest news quicklyofficial telegram channel the city of Moscow.

    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.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/154109073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Economy – Depositor Compensation Scheme Transitional Provisions Standard published – Reserve Bank of NZ

    Source: Reserve Bank of New Zealand – Te Pūtea Matua

    21 May 2025 – The Reserve Bank of New Zealand – Te Pūtea Matua has published a Transitional Standard, outlining how deposit takers must collect and store customer information in the event of a deposit taker failure so that they can ensure timely payments.

    The Deposit Takers (Depositor Compensation Scheme Transitional Provisions) Standard 2025 comes into force on 1 July 2025 and sets out how deposit takers should gather alternate bank details from depositors in the event of a failure, so that Depositor Compensation Scheme (DCS) payments can be made as quickly as possible.  

    Deposit takers that provide online software for their depositors to view or manage their accounts, such as internet or mobile applications, must have a pre-positioned DCS depositor page that can be easily accessed on these platforms in the event of a failure. This requirement comes into effect on 1 July 2025 for non-mobile based platforms, and on 31 December 2025 for mobile-based applications.  

    The DCS depositor page will be used to collect customers’ alternate bank account details so that DCS payments can be made into an active bank account at another deposit taker.  

    Having a prepositioned DCS depositor page improves the user experience in the event of a failure as depositors will be able to verify their identity through their normal online process and enter their alternate account details. This should make the payment process faster and reduce risks associated with having to verify the identity of depositors on a separate platform.  

    The Transitional Standard also sets out an alternate model for collecting customer data if deposit takers can collect the required information more efficiently using a different approach. Deposit takers have the option to submit a written proposal to the RBNZ that outlines their proposed alternate method for collecting depositor information securely from authorised individuals other than via a DCS depositor page.  

    The RBNZ consulted on a draft of this Transitional Standard between 6 December 2024 and 7 February 2025 and received 10 submissions from a combination of deposit takers and industry bodies.  

    You can find the Transitional Standard and Guidance here: https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=6911a962bd&e=f3c68946f8

    More information

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government decision to abandon proposed Digital Services Tax disappointing – Better Taxes

    Source: Better Taxes for a Better Future

    The decision by the Government to abandon the proposed Digital Services Tax has been described as very disappointing by the Better Taxes for a Better Future campaign, raising questions about how the Government intends to fill the revenue gap left by this move.  It also raises  questions about how the Government will ensure digital services companies are paying a fair rate of tax on their earnings in New Zealand.

    The Digital Services Tax Bill, which was introduced by the previous Labour Government has been sitting on Parliament’s order paper since August 2023. It would have instituted a 3% tax on digital services revenue earned from New Zealand customers by large digital services companies. Treasury had already included the revenue from the proposed tax in its latest forecasts and estimated it would contribute $479m between 2027 and 2029.

    “We need to know how the Government intends to plug the $479m revenue gap left by their decision to drop the Digital Services Tax, at a time when our public services, particularly health, are in crisis because of underfunding,” says Glenn Barclay spokesperson for the Better Taxes campaign.

    “The digital economy has proven very difficult to tax and the absence of a digital services tax has allowed multi-national tech companies to avoid paying their fair share of tax in Aotearoa New Zealand.”

    “Around 18 countries already operate digital services taxes, and while the American administration doesn’t like them, we are not aware of any countries repealing these laws in response to threats from the Trump administration,” says Glenn Barclay.

    “Instead of giving in to such threats,the Government should have proceeded with the Bill, or at the very least left it on the Parliamentary Order Paper until it could be implemented or an alternative developed.”

    “If the Government is stepping away from the Bill then we need to know how it intends to progress the taxation of  multi-national tech companies in this country, to ensure that these companies contribute to this country, rather than just exploiting their privileged position.” says Glenn Barclay.

    “We don’t share the Minister’s optimism about an enforceable agreement on minimum corporate tax rates at the OECD in the medium term in the face of opposition from the Trump Administration. New Zealand needs another solution.”

    “In addition it leaves another big question mark over how the Government will ensure advertising-dependent news local media will survive when their news and advertising is being taken by the social media giants who don’t pay a fair rate of tax,” says Glenn Barclay.

    ENDS

    Media spokesperson: Glenn Barclay – 027 295 5110

    The Better Taxes for a Better Future Campaign is a coalition of over 20 organisations led by Tax Justice Aotearoa.

    We believe that tax reform is the only solution to the current challenges facing Aotearoa NZ.  We need the tax system to:

    be transparent
    raise more revenue to enable us address the challenges we face
    make sure people who have more to contribute make that contribution: that we gather more revenue from wealth, gains from wealth, all forms of income, and corporates
    make greater use of fair taxes to promote good health and environmental health
    address the tax impact on the least well off in our society.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Economy – RBNZ Stats Alert Business Expectations Survey: June quarter results published

    Source: Reserve Bank of New Zealand

    21 May 2025 – Today marks the launch of Tara-ā-Umanga Business Expectations Survey (BES), with our publication of results for the June quarter (Table M15). BES is a quarterly release that will be published ahead of each Monetary Policy Statement.

    The initial publication includes our Stats Insight, a background note as a guide to interpret the new survey results, and a description of our survey methodology.

    BES includes several hundred businesses from different sectors around the country, from small to large firms. It is separate from the existing Survey of Expectations focusing on expert forecasters, economists and industry leaders (Table M14, from 1987 onwards), which will continue.

    The sample size and design enable new breakdowns by business size and industry, which are published in the data file accompanying Table M15. To facilitate the publication of detailed results by business size and industry, along with common measures of statistical uncertainty, we are using a new file format for the M15 data file. This intentionally differs from the file format of our other statistical releases. A description of the variables published in the M15 data file is available in the background notes to this release.

    Background information

    Inflation expectations are important because households and businesses reflect their expectations in their price- and wage-setting decisions. Improving the quality of our expectation surveys is part of the wider response to our 2022 review of how we formulate and implement our monetary policy. In this review, we identified several areas where better data could support high quality monetary policy decision-making.

    For further information please see: Tara-ā-Umanga Business Expectations Survey: Survey design and development: https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=ce329fb983&e=f3c68946f8

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: View from The Hill: Coalition split puts Victorian and NSW Nationals Senate seats at high risk

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra

    The Victorian and NSW Nationals senators due to face the voters at the 2028 election will struggle to hold their seats if the former partners do not re-form the Coalition before then.

    Under usual Coalition arrangements, Bridget McKenzie, from Victoria, who is Nationals Senate leader, and Ross Cadell, from NSW, would have been set to be number two on the joint Senate ticket in their respective states. This would have assured them of re-election.

    But if they have to run on separate Nationals Senate tickets, it will be hard for them to garner enough votes to be re-elected. One reason is the Nationals would not have candidates in urban lower house seats, and so their Senate how-to-vote tickets wouldn’t be handed out in those areas.

    As Liberals reeled after the Nationals’ sudden desertion of the Coalition on Tuesday, Opposition Leader Sussan Ley is working on her all-Liberal opposition frontbench, to be announced Thursday or Friday.

    Senior Victorian Liberal Dan Tehan said: “We’re all still in a state of shock of the outcome. I don’t think people have really come to terms with it.”

    Nationals MP Darren Chester, from Victoria, urged negotiations between the parties to continue. He warned “if we go to the next sitting of parliament being two divided party rooms we are giving a free pass to the prime minister”.

    Nationals leader David Littleproud continued to defend his party’s shock decision to split the Coalition.

    He told the ABC “plenty of political commentators” were taking potshots.

    “Well, good luck, they don’t understand what it is to be a Nat. What it is to live and to know and to hear the stories of people who are in danger because of mobile phone towers. Young families that can’t afford their mortgage because they can’t go back to work, because they can’t find a childcare place, because there are none.”

    Asked if the Nationals were prepared to stay on the backbench indefinitely if the Liberals didn’t meet their demands, Littleproud said, “Well, if we get to a juncture after the next election where we can form a government with the Liberal Party, then obviously we’re going to support the Liberal Party. But there will be conditions, and the conditions are about those things that are core to making the lives of those people that we represent better”.

    Former prime minister Tony Abbott joined John Howard in urging an early rapprochement. Abbott said, “I deeply regret the Coalition split and hope that it can be re-formed as soon as possible. History shows that the Liberals and the Nationals win together and fail separately.” On Tuesday  Howard warned of the negative consequences of the split.

    Liberal deputy leader Ted O’Brien said the Nationals’ decision was “more than disappointing”.

    He said the parties were “stronger together” and he hoped over time the Nationals will “draw the same conclusion that we are better together than we are apart”.

    With three-cornered contests one issue now the parties are not in coalition, McKenzie was asked whether she would be relaxed about the Liberals running in all Nationals seats.

    “This is one of the serious risks of the decision we took yesterday,” she said, adding it had been “part of our thinking as went forward”.

    “We also see it as an opportunity to put a very strong proposition for rural and regional Australia to those communities.

    “At the end of the day, though, Coalition arrangements are matters for our state parties – so the LNP in Queensland, the NSW state Nationals and also the Victorian Nationals.”

    Michelle Grattan 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. View from The Hill: Coalition split puts Victorian and NSW Nationals Senate seats at high risk – https://theconversation.com/view-from-the-hill-coalition-split-puts-victorian-and-nsw-nationals-senate-seats-at-high-risk-256456

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI China: Shanghai Intl Film Festival reveals jury, previews highlights

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

    The organizers of the 27th Shanghai International Film Festival (SIFF) unveiled posters, jury lineup and select highlights for the upcoming festival at a press conference in Beijing on May 20.

    Organizers brief media at a press conference for the 27th Shanghai International Film Festival (SIFF) and the 30th Shanghai TV Festival (STVF), Beijing, May 20, 2025. [Photo courtesy of SIFF Organizing Committee]

    Pan Min, director of the Shanghai Film Bureau, announced that renowned Italian director Giuseppe Tornatore will lead the jury for the main competition of the Golden Goblet Awards. Joining him are Argentine screenwriter-director Iván Fund, Chinese actor-director Huang Bo, Greek producer Thanassis Karathanos, Indian filmmaker Kiran Rao, Chinese director Yang Lina and Chinese actress Yong Mei.

    Pan revealed that the Golden Goblet Awards this year received a record 3,900-plus film submissions from 119 countries and regions across five competition categories. Submissions included over 2,800 competition entries, with notable growth from the Americas and Africa, as well as an 18% rise in short film submissions.

    As an internationally influential film festival, SIFF has long been a prominent platform for showcasing Chinese-language cinema and a vital arena for promotion and distribution. Approximately 60 Chinese films, including competition nominees, new releases and beloved classics, will be featured this year.

    A promotional image showing Golden Goblet Awards jury members for the 27th Shanghai International Film Festival. [Photo courtesy of SIFF Organizing Committee]

    This year’s SIFF has refined its screening sections to broaden its perspectives, Pan said. For example, the new “Master Duo” format will honor two film masters together, while the Asia Now section will highlight regional cinema with a “Filmmaker in Focus” program. Other additions include the “UK Focus” program in the Contemporary World Cinema section and “Amplify” under the Spectrum section for outstanding genre films worldwide.

    The festival’s Film Panorama screening schedule will be announced June 3, with tickets going on sale on June 5 through major ticketing platforms Damai and Taopiaopiao. The opening film, “She’s Got No Name,” directed by Peter Chan, will have a special citywide screening after the opening ceremony on the evening of June 14 at more than 100 cinemas across Shanghai. The day before the press conference, a selection of the films to be screened during the festival were revealed, including IMAX showings of “Michael Jackson’s This Is It,” “Becoming Led Zeppelin,” “The Brutalist” and “Nosferatu.”

    Running June 13-22, this year’s SIFF marks both the 130th anniversary of world cinema and 120th anniversary of Chinese cinema. The opening session, themed “Era of Splendor: Dreams Ignite New Journeys,” celebrates Chinese cinema’s achievements over the past 120 years while inspiring new creative journeys. The Film Panorama will feature a special section titled “Resonance: A Brief Encounter of Chinese and World Cinema,” showcasing iconic global films to highlight cinematic exchange between China and the wider world.

    Building on the success of the Belt and Road Film Festival Alliance initiated by SIFF, this year’s Belt and Road Film Week will incorporate forums and other events. Selected films recommended by alliance members will also be screened across the Yangtze River Delta, with Nanjing, Suzhou, Hangzhou, Ningbo and Hefei joining Shanghai in showcasing these works.

    A poster for the opening film “She’s Got No Name” directed by Peter Chan. [Photo courtesy of SIFF Organizing Committee]

    Organizers noted that 2025 also marks several significant diplomatic anniversaries — 50 years of China-EU relations, 55 years of China-Italy ties and 50 years of China-Thailand relations — bringing increased European and Southeast Asian film engagement through exhibitions, screenings and co-productions. The Film Panorama will host an Italian Film Week, showcasing over 20 Italian cinematic classics across nearly 100 screenings, from “Rome, Open City” to “Cinema Paradiso.”

    The festival continues to develop its “6+1” tiered talent nurturing framework. The fourth SIFF Young adds producer roles, while SIFF Project’s new Genre Films category attracted more than 530 submissions. The upgraded SIFF ING focuses on new technologies and formats, featuring special tracks for AIGC and vertical-screen formats to support emerging talent, attracting more than 3,600 submissions. For the first time in 21 years, the Asian New Talent Awards will be officially combined with the Golden Goblet Awards.

    Four official posters inspired by Shanghai’s architecture and culture for the 27th Shanghai International Film Festival. [Photo courtesy of SIFF Organizing Committee]

    SIFF, under the guidance of China Film Administration and co-hosted by China Media Group (CMG) and the Shanghai Municipal Government, will organize 10 to 12 SIFForum sessions and two to four MasterClass sessions. These will cover technological innovation, international cooperation, literary adaptations and IP commercialization, with the aim of exploring new pathways for Chinese cinema’s high-quality development.

    In addition, the film festival will be followed by the 30th Shanghai TV Festival (STVF) running from June 23-27, organized by the National Radio and Television Administration, CMG, and the Shanghai Municipal People’s Government. Events include an Ultra HD productions showcase, thematic forums, and a joint International Film & TV Market with SIFF. The International TV Showcase will feature award-winning global programs, while a BBC partnership will commemorate the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen’s birth. The festival’s prestigious Magnolia Awards will honor top productions, having received nearly 1,000 entries from 43 countries and regions, including submissions from the BBC, Sony, HBO, Warner Bros. and Disney.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • At lest 26 Naxals killed in major encounter in Chhattisgarh’s Narayanpur District

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    At least 26 Naxals were killed in an encounter with security forces in the dense forests of Chhattisgarh’s Narayanpur district, Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma confirmed on Wednesday.

    Speaking to ANI, Sharma stated, “More than 26 Naxalites have been neutralized by the security forces. Our forces fought bravely, and the operation is still ongoing with further search efforts underway,”.

    Chhattisgarh Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao also hailed the operation’s success, reiterating the government’s commitment to make Bastar region Naxal-free by March 2026. “After assuming office, we launched an intensive program to eliminate Naxalism from Bastar. This encounter in Narayanpur is a major success and a step toward our goal,” he added.

    Speaker of the Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly, Raman Singh, also commended the security forces for the successful operation. “I congratulate the Union Home Minister Amit Shah and State Home Minister Vijay Sharma for their leadership. Our forces carried out this operation in extreme temperatures of 40 to 42 degrees Celsius, and the people of Bastar have shown overwhelming support for peace and development,” Singh said.

    (With ANI inputs)

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Margaret Flynn reappointed as Chair of the National Mental Capacity Forum

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Margaret Flynn reappointed as Chair of the National Mental Capacity Forum

    The Secretaries of State for Justice and for Health and Social Care have approved the reappointment of Dr Margaret Flynn as Chair of the National Mental Capacity Forum.

    The Secretaries of State for Justice and for Health and Social Care have approved the reappointment of Dr Margaret Flynn as Chair of the National Mental Capacity Forum (NMCF) for 3 years from 7 March 2025.

    The NMCF was established by the Ministry of Justice and the Department of Health and Social Care in 2015, in response to the 2014 House of Lords Select Committee post-legislative scrutiny report of the Mental Capacity Act 2005 (MCA).

    The NMCF aims to raise awareness of the MCA and improve its implementation by joining up stakeholders from a wide range of sectors where the MCA applies, such as health and social care, banking, legal and third sector organisations.

    The Chair of the NMCF is appointed by the Secretaries of State for Justice and for Health and Social Care. Appointments are regulated by the Commissioner for Public Appointments.

    Dr Margaret Flynn biography

    Since 2019, Dr Flynn has been a Trustee of Anheddau Cyf, a not-for-profit charity supporting adults with learning disabilities, autism and mental health challenges across North Wales. She has been a Director of Flynn and Eley Associates Ltd since 2009 and has held various editorial roles for the Journal of Adult Protection since 1999.

    Dr Flynn has chaired and written several reviews concerning people with compromised mental capacity, in particular a review into Winterbourne View Hospital during 2011. In 2013, she was commissioned by the First Minister of Wales to undertake a review of the neglect of older people living in care homes investigated as Operation Jasmine. More recently, Dr Flynn chaired Wales’ inaugural National Independent Safeguarding Board and wrote the review concerning Cawston Park Hospital. She is currently coordinating research activities for TIDE (together in dementia everyday) and is supporting its contributions to the SPIN Dementia Network (Sustainable Prevention, Innovation and involvement).

    Updates to this page

    Published 21 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: First MHRA Board meeting held in Scotland, underlining agency’s commitment to regional health equality and growth

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    First MHRA Board meeting held in Scotland, underlining agency’s commitment to regional health equality and growth

    The meeting, which took place at the Royal College of Surgeons in Edinburgh, centred on the MHRA’s commitment to delivering the agency’s priorities in Scotland

    From left: Greig Chalmers, Prof. Anthony Harnden, Alison Strath and Lawrence Tallon

    The Board of the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has met in Scotland for the first time ever, reinforcing the agency’s commitment to delivering its health and innovation priorities across the UK.

    The meeting took place at the Royal College of Surgeons in Edinburgh, which is the oldest surgical college in the world.

    Alongside the MHRA’s new CEO Lawrence Tallon, MHRA Chair Professor Anthony Harnden and the board members, the meeting was attended by a number of important Scottish representatives from healthcare and government, including Chief Pharmaceutical Officer Alison Strath and Head of the Chief Medical Officer’s Policy Division Greig Chalmers.

    The discussions centred on the MHRA’s commitment to delivering the agency’s priorities in Scotland and served as an opportunity for the MHRA to listen to the experiences and ideas of those in attendance.

    Tour of the Institute of Regeneration and Repair with hosts and Usher Institute staff

    The MHRA Board was one of several engagements between leading MHRA officials and Scottish representatives across the country as part of the trip, including with the Director of the University of Edinburgh’s Usher Institute Professor Cathie Sudlow, NHS Lothian Research and Development Director Professor Alasdair Gray, and officials from DataLoch and Research Data Scotland.

    MHRA Chair, Professor Anthony Harnden, said:

    This isn’t just a change of location — it’s a meaningful step in our commitment to being a truly national regulator.

    The MHRA’s work serves the whole of the UK, and that means we must spend time in every part of it, listening, learning, and building partnerships rooted in mutual respect and shared ambition.

    MHRA Chief Executive, Lawrence Tallon, said:

    It is absolutely vital that the voices of all four nations and regional partners are involved in discussions about the MHRA’s strategic direction.

    Strong regional and national engagement helps ensure that the work the MHRA does to protect public health, drive innovation and boost growth serves not just England but the whole of the UK.

    This isn’t a ‘one-off’, it’s a step change. I look forward to meeting other regional partners in due course.

    The board meeting fell on International Clinical Trials Day and is another example of how the MHRA is driving forward innovation and growth throughout the UK.

    Notes to editors:

    • The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is responsible for regulating all medicines and medical devices in the UK by ensuring they work and are acceptably safe.  All our work is underpinned by robust and fact-based judgements to ensure that the benefits justify any risks.  
    • The MHRA is an executive agency of the Department of Health and Social Care.  
    • For media enquiries, please contact the newscentre@mhra.gov.uk.

    Updates to this page

    Published 21 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Maritime Union condemns threatened job losses on Aratere ferry

    Source: Update – homicide investigation, Hamilton

    The Maritime Union of New Zealand has strongly condemned KiwiRail’s proposal for drastic job cuts on its Cook Strait ferry operations.

    KiwiRail this week announced it would remove the rail-enabled Aratere ferry from service in August 2025.

    KiwiRail has advised today it is seeking to cut 70 jobs for MUNZ members in the deck and catering departments on the Aratere.

    Further job losses are anticipated for officers and engineers who are members of other unions.

    Maritime Union of New Zealand Wellington Branch Secretary Fiona Mansell says crew are angry at the announcement.

    The Maritime Union would resist any job losses and would only accept voluntary redundancies.

    She says the proposal is a massive letdown for crew who had worked hard and delivered on the ageing KiwiRail ferry fleet, and who were paying for the failures of management and politicians.

    “This decision rips the heart out of our maritime workforce, leaving dedicated workers and their families facing an uncertain future. It’s a betrayal of the people who keep our country connected.”

    She says such a major loss of jobs would have a devastating impact on New Zealand’s maritime resilience and would be a significant blow to our seafaring workforce.

    Ms Mansell says no thought has been given to what KiwiRail will do when it requires more crew for its new vessels in the future.

    “New Zealand deserves a resilient, capable maritime sector, not one that is dismantled at the whim of short term thinking and cost-cutting. Our jobs, our skills, and our national supply chain depend on it.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: The 44th Young Designers’ Exhibition Kicks Off in 2025: Diverse Creativity Envisions the Future

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    The opening ceremony of the 44th Young Designers’ Exhibition (YODEX) 2025, was held on May 9 at Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center Hall 2, Mr. Chin-Tsang Ho, the Deputy Minister of Ministry of Economic Affairs and other distinguished guests are officially opening the events. The exhibition, running from May 9 (Friday) to May 12 (Monday), is jointly guided by the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) and the Ministry of Education (MOE), and organized by the Industrial Development Administration (IDA), and executed by the Taiwan Design Research Institute (TDRI).

    With the theme “Preferred Future”, YODEX 2025 presents a rich woven tapestry of perspectives on future living through the lens of design. This year’ s events feature participation from 59 domestic schools, 122 departments, nearly 10,000 young designers, and approximately 3,500 design works. Additionally, 10 schools from seven countries- including the United States, Thailand, Japan, Mexico, India, and Australia-have joined the showcase. The event also highlights the outcomes of 11 industry-academia cooperation projects, emphasizing the interwoven synergy between design talents and industry. The public is warmly invited to experience firsthand the bold yet pragmatical imagination and creativity of Taiwan’ s next generation of designers.

    Beyond an exhibition, YODEX is also a key platform for industry-academia cooperation and a talent pipeline for enterprises seeking outstanding creatives. This year’ s YODEX Industry-Academia Collaboration Program features participation from seven companies and institutions-including Gamania Digital Entertainment Co., Ltd., FAMICA INTERNATIONAL CO. LTD., and the NEW TAIPEI CITY DESIGN CENTER-under the themes of “Future Education”, “Future Health”, and “Future Entertainment”. A total of 365 student teams submitted proposals, with 19 teams selected for six months of co-creation with industry partners.

    To promote regional talent development, this year also witnessed the expansion of YODEX Industry-Academia Cooperation, with four companies-YEE CHAIN INTERNATIONAL CO., Ltd., Tair Chu Enterprise Co, Ltd, KENDA RUBBER INDUSTRIAL Co.,Ltd. and SLICETHINNER MANUFACTURING COMPANY Ltd.-partnering with nine universities. A total of 105 students worked on solutions tailored to local industry needs, encouraging local employment and retention of design talent.

    This year’ s upgraded Professional Day features cross-disciplinary professionals, student pitch sessions, and corresponding matchmaking. A record of 14 industry forums cover topics like IP licensing, packaging, education, sustainability, and tech, deepening industry-academia collaboration.

    The 2025 44th Young Designers’ Exhibition gathers Taiwan’s design schools and industry resources to explore the future of design. Through cross-disciplinary collaborations and international exchanges, it showcases diverse aspects of design education and practice. Welcome to this events from May 9 to May 12 to eyewitness how the young designers creatively imagine and project the issues like environment, technology, and humanity while exploring the possible future living.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Stabilization Notice – Pre Stab – SPIE SA

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    [21/05/25]

    Not for distribution, directly or indirectly, in or into the United States or any jurisdiction in which such distribution would be unlawful.

    [SPIE SA]

    Pre-stabilisation Period Announcement

    BNP Paribas (contact: Stanford Hartman telephone: 0207 595 8222 hereby gives notice, as Stabilisation Coordinator, that the Stabilisation Manager(s) named below may stabilise the offer of the following securities in accordance with Commission Delegated Regulation EU/2016/1052 under the Market Abuse Regulation (EU/596/2014).

    The securities:1  
    Issuer: SPIE SA
    Guarantor (if any): N/A
    Aggregate nominal amount: TBC
    Description: EUR 5 YR
    Offer price: TBC
    Other offer terms: N/A
    Stabilisation:  
    Stabilisation Manager(s) BNP PARIBAS, CREDIT AGRICOLE CIB, NATIXIS, SOCIETE GENERALE, CIC, COMMERZBANK, ING, LA BANQUE POSTALE, JPM
    Stabilisation period expected to start on: 21/05/25
    Stabilisation period expected to end no later than: 27/06/25
    Existence, maximum size and conditions of use of over‑allotment facility: The Stabilisation Manager(s) may over‑allot the securities to the extent permitted in accordance with applicable law.
    Stabilisation trading venue: OTC

    In connection with the offer of the above securities, the Stabilisation Manager(s) may over‑allot the securities or effect transactions with a view to supporting the market price of the securities during the stabilisation period at a level higher than that which might otherwise prevail. However, stabilisation may not necessarily occur and any stabilisation action, if begun, may cease at any time. Any stabilisation action or over‑allotment shall be conducted in accordance with all applicable laws and rules.

    This announcement is for information purposes only and does not constitute an invitation or offer to underwrite, subscribe for or otherwise acquire or dispose of any securities of the Issuer in any jurisdiction.

    This announcement and the offer of the securities to which it relates are only addressed to and directed at persons outside the United Kingdom and persons in the United Kingdom who have professional experience in matters related to investments or who are high net worth persons within Article 12(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 and must not be acted on or relied on by other persons in the United Kingdom.

    In addition, if and to the extent that this announcement is communicated in, or the offer of the securities to which it relates is made in, the UK or any EEA Member State before the publication of a prospectus in relation to the securities which has been approved by the competent authority in the UK or that Member State in accordance with Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 (the “Prospectus  Regulation”) (or which has been approved by a competent authority in another Member State and notified to the competent authority in the UK or that Member State in accordance with the Prospectus Regulation), this announcement and the offer are only addressed to and directed at persons in the UK or that Member State who are qualified investors within the meaning of the Prospectus Regulation (or who are other persons to whom the offer may lawfully be addressed) and must not be acted on or relied on by other persons in the UK or that Member State.

    This announcement is not an offer of securities for sale into the United States. The securities have not been, and will not be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933 and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an exemption from registration. There will be no public offer of securities in the United States. 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK 🔴 PMQs LIVE: Prime Minister’s Questions – 21 May 2025

    Source: United Kingdom UK Parliament (video statements)

    Watch PMQs with British Sign Language (BSL) – https://youtube.com/live/tTf8vqNJCjY

    Prime Minister’s Question Time, also referred to as PMQs, takes place every Wednesday the House of Commons sits. It gives MPs the chance to put questions to the Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer MP, or a nominated minister.

    In most cases, the session starts with a routine ‘open question’ from an MP about the Prime Minister’s engagements. MPs can then ask supplementary questions on any subject, often one of current political significance.

    The Leader of the Opposition, Kemi Badenoch MP, asks six questions and the leader of the second largest opposition party asks two. If another minister takes the place of the Prime Minister, opposition parties will usually nominate a shadow minister to ask the questions.

    Want to find out more about what’s happening in the House of Commons this week? Follow the House of Commons on:

    X: https://www.x.com/HouseofCommons
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ukhouseofcommons
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ukhouseofcommons

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AfrJOXbKjws

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK 🔴 LIVE: Prime Minister’s Questions with British Sign Language (BSL) – 21 May 2025

    Source: United Kingdom UK Parliament (video statements)

    Prime Minister’s Question Time, also referred to as PMQs, takes place every Wednesday the House of Commons sits. It gives MPs the chance to put questions to the Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer MP, or a nominated minister.

    In most cases, the session starts with a routine ‘open question’ from an MP about the Prime Minister’s engagements. MPs can then ask supplementary questions on any subject, often one of current political significance.

    The Leader of the Opposition, Kemi Badenoch MP, asks six questions and the leader of the second largest opposition party asks two. If another minister takes the place of the Prime Minister, opposition parties will usually nominate a shadow minister to ask the questions.

    Want to find out more about what’s happening in the House of Commons this week? Follow the House of Commons on:

    X: https://www.x.com/HouseofCommons
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ukhouseofcommons
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ukhouseofcommons

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tTf8vqNJCjY

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Minister of Health Aaron Motsoaledi briefs the Media on HIV Funding

    Source: Republic of South Africa (video statements-2)

    Minister of Health Aaron Motsoaledi briefs the Media on HIV Funding

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j-F8TXJDMEg

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Nearly €1 billion for producing renewable hydrogen in the EU

    Source: European Union 2

    The EU will fund 15 renewable hydrogen production projects in 5 European countries to produce more than 2 million tonnes of renewable hydrogen over 10 years. They will help decrease the use of fossil fuels on our continent, increase the EU’s energy independence and create jobs.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Residents urged to keep batteries out of household bins

    Source: City of Sunderland

    Residents across Sunderland are being urged to act responsibly and never place batteries or battery-operated devices in their household waste or recycling bins, following a recent fire suspected to have been caused by a damaged battery.

    At the end of April, a blaze broke out at Campground Waste Transfer Station in Wrekenton (a facility operated by the South Tyne and Wear Waste Management Partnership), believed to have been started by a battery discarded incorrectly. The fire smouldered before igniting but was fortunately spotted early and extinguished before it spread. However, this incident highlights the very real danger these items can pose.

    Batteries and electrical items containing batteries pose a significant fire risk when placed in general waste or mixed recycling. When damaged, crushed or punctured, as can easily happen during collection or processing, batteries can ignite fires that spread rapidly, putting lives, vehicles, and infrastructure at risk.

    It’s not just loose batteries that are a danger. Many small domestic appliances and everyday electronics have batteries that are difficult to remove, such as:

    • Electronic cigarettes and vaping devices
    • Mobile phones
    • Laptops and tablets
    • Power tools
    • Electronic toys and solar powered items such as garden lights and decorations

    Councillor Maria Hall, Chair of the South Tyne and Wear Waste Management Partnership, said:

    “Batteries can ignite at any stage of the waste process, including on our refuse vehicles, or at waste or recycling facilities. Once alight, they burn incredibly fiercely and are difficult and dangerous to extinguish. Fires put lives at risk, including those of our hard-working waste collection teams, and can cause devastating damage to vital infrastructure.

    The solution is simple: never put batteries or battery-powered items in your household bins. Recycle them responsibly at designated points in places that sell new batteries, including supermarkets, DIY stores, local retailers, or your local Household Waste Recycling Centre (HWRC).

    It doesn’t matter whether it’s a single-use AA battery or a sealed lithium-ion battery in a vape – all can cause fires.”

    What you can do

    For a full list of local drop-off sites, visit www.sunderland.gov.uk/battery-recycling

    Why it matters

    • Over half of all batteries still end up in the bin – increasing fire risk
    • Batteries are hazardous and contain toxic substances that harm the environment if they leak
    • Batteries also contain valuable materials that can be recovered and reused when recycled correctly

    Let’s protect our people, our facilities, and our planet – one battery at a time.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Free and low-cost things to do over May half term

    Source: City of Leeds

    From gnomes galore at Abbey House Museum to Woolfest at Leeds Industrial Museum – check out our highlighted free and low-cost things to do in Leeds with your family over the May half term break.

    Gnomes Galore at Abbey House Museum
    Help! The museum’s cheeky gnomes have escaped and are hiding all over the Victorian Streets, grab a trail sheet and see who you can find! Be sure to come and join the mischief and also take part in craft activities inspired by our cheeky friends.
    Saturday 24 May to Sunday 1 June, cost: included in admission
    Find out more: Gnomes Galore at Abbey House Museum

    Kirkstall Abbey Scarecrow Festival
    Explore the historic ruins of Kirkstall Abbey whilst looking for fun scarecrows during the Scarecrow Festival! You might find a Hungry Caterpillar in the Kitchen, a ladybird in the library or a horse in the hospital! Wander through the park and woodlands and take a leisurely stroll beside the River Aire whilst learning about the historic Abbey.
    Saturday 24 May to Sunday 1 June, cost: included in admission
    Find out more: Kirkstall Abbey Scarecrow Festival

    Love Your Zoo Week at Lotherton
    Take part in Love Your Zoo Week at Lotherton and celebrate all the animals in Wildlife World. Follow the ‘amazing animals’ trail, hop on board their famous tractor trailer for a deer park tour, get crafty in the House and find out more about the wildlife in the zoo.
    Saturday 24 May to Sunday 1 June, cost: included in admission (crafts and tractor tour are additional costs)
    Find out more: Love Your Zoo Week at Lotherton

    Find Your Happy at Temple Newsam House
    In the big house you will find crafts and activities all inspired by the theme of happiness. Families will be able to enjoy joyful crafts, dreamy dressing up, not so tricky trails and more! There is also a brand new exhibition by Leeds Fine Artists which is on display in different rooms throughout the house. See if you can spot the newest paintings and objects on display and how the artists have been inspired by the country house.
    Saturday 24 May to Sunday 1 June, cost: included in admission
    Find out more: Find Your Happy at Temple Newsam House

    Love Your Zoo Week at Tropical World
    Celebrate Love Your Zoo Week by visiting Tropical World and meeting their new sulcata tortoises. Take part in Tank’s Tortoise Trail, experience keeper talks, take part in craft activities, and treat yourself to a tasty snack in the café.
    Saturday 24 May to Sunday 1 June, cost: included in admission
    Find out more: Love Your Zoo Week at Tropical World

    Half term at Kirkgate Market
    Visit Kirkgate Market over half term to experience pop-up events and free family activities including giant games, colouring, Lego crafts, and Duplo building.
    Saturday 24 May to Friday 30 May, cost: free
    Find out more: Half term at Kirkgate Market

    Half term at the Royal Armouries Museum
    Over half term, the Royal Armouries Museum will be shining a light on the Second World War – with live presentations, battle stories and weapon talks. And experience their new display, Objects in Focus, which marks the 80th anniversaries of Victory in Europe (VE) Day and Victory in Japan (VJ) Day.
    Saturday 24 May to Sunday 1 June, 10am to 5pm, cost: free
    Find out more: Half term at the Royal Armouries

    Miffy Crafts at Leeds City Museum
    Delve into the world of Miffy books and create your own bold, colourful Miffy artwork. Come to the museum for Miffy-themed arts and crafts during the half term. There’ll also be finger puppets and Miffy ears for little bunnies to decorate. Activities are suitable for all ages, designed for families to have a go together.
    Tuesday 27, Wednesday 28, and Thursday 29 May, 10am to 12pm and 1pm to 3pm, cost: free
    Find out more: Miffy Crafts at Leeds City Museum

    These Are My Rocks with Bethan Woollvin at Leeds Libraries
    Do you collect anything? Everyone collects something! Join award-winning author/illustrator Bethan Woollvin at one of our libraries for an exciting workshop based on her brand-new picture book These Are My Rocks, which is all about the joy of collecting things.
    Tuesday 27 May to Friday 30 May (locations and times vary), cost: pay what you decide
    Find out more: These Are My Rocks with Bethan Woollvin

    Turn Back the Clock at Leeds Discovery Centre
    In this family workshop, come and take a closer look at some of the amazing clocks in the discovery centre’s collection and have a go at making your own wall clock to take home.
    Wednesday 28 May, 10am to 12pm and 1pm to 3pm, cost: give what you can – bookings required via the website
    Find out more: Turn Back the Clock at Leeds Discovery Centre

    Woolfest at Leeds Industrial Museum
    Celebrate the wonder of wool with craft stalls, workshops, live demonstrations, a pop-up tea room and loads more – the city’s original festival of wool is back with a bang in 2025! We have it all from packed out crafting markets to expert demonstrations, talks, performances, tea room pop-ups and loads more. Whether you’re a natty knitter or crackers about crochet, it’s a great day out for all ages.
    Saturday 31 May, 10am to 5pm, cost: £5 for adults, £2.90 for children
    Find out more: Woolfest at Leeds Industrial Museum

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI China: China hosts ISO’s first port, terminal standardization body

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

    The first port and terminal standardization subcommittee under the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) was officially established in China on Tuesday, with its secretariat hosted by the country, the Ministry of Transport has announced.

    The subcommittee, approved by the ISO, is established under the ISO Technical Committee for Ships and Marine Technology. It is the first ISO technical body in the port sector initiated by the ministry.

    The newly established subcommittee will promote global “hard connectivity” of port infrastructure and “soft connectivity” of rules and standards, said Xu Wenqiang, director of the ministry’s science and technology department, at a press conference.

    The subcommittee will focus on leading global green and intelligent development in port operations, system construction, and technology applications, with 23 participating members and 27 observing members.

    Ports and terminals serve as crucial logistics nodes for maintaining stable global supply chains. Standardization plays a vital role in enhancing their competitiveness and modernizing governance systems.

    Since last year, the ISO has visited Shanghai, Tianjin, Qingdao and other locations in China, highly commending the country’s achievements in port and terminal standardization.

    In terms of port infrastructure, China’s coastal ports lead the world in overall scale. Chinese ports hold eight and six positions respectively among the global top ten ports by cargo throughput and container throughput. In port intelligence development, China ranks first worldwide in both completed and under-construction automated terminals. The world record for container handling efficiency at automated terminals has also been set and maintained by Chinese ports.

    Through continuous innovation, China has developed advanced technical achievements in port construction and operation, particularly in terminal guidelines, operational requirements and green development, creating a standard system characterized by safety, sustainability, intelligence and efficiency, said Xu.

    The establishment of this subcommittee marks a solid step forward in global port standardization, injecting strong momentum into building an efficient, safe and sustainable global shipping network, said Li Ying, spokesperson for the Ministry of Transport. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Foreign businesses deepen roots in Chinese market through intl trade fair

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

    Crowds gathered at the Hokkaido booth during the 34th Harbin International Economic and Trade Fair, drawn by live demonstrations of handcrafted rice balls and an array of regional delicacies from the northern Japanese prefecture.

    “This year, 14 Hokkaido-based enterprises are showcasing 36 specialty products, with 12 companies and 34 products making their debut at the fair,” said Takayuki Kano, Vice Governor of Hokkaido, expressing hopes that the event would help Hokkaido businesses secure local distributors and expand their footprint across China.

    Held in Harbin, capital of northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province, this year’s fair, which concluded on Wednesday, attracted over 1,500 enterprises from 38 countries and regions, including the United States, Japan and Switzerland, alongside participants from 23 Chinese provinces, autonomous regions and municipalities.

    During the fair, foreign officials and corporate representatives highlighted Heilongjiang’s growing appeal as an investment destination and pledged to deepen their engagement with the Chinese market.

    Jonathan Pauwels, director of product development and branding for agricultural equipment manufacturer Case IH’s Asia-Pacific division, spoke about his company’s more-than-two-decade journey in the region.

    “We established our first factory in Harbin as early as 1999 and set up an agricultural machinery product development and research center in 2013. Over the past decade, we have continuously invested approximately 1 billion yuan (about 139 million U.S. dollars) in Heilongjiang to promote smart manufacturing. Now, many of our new agricultural machinery products have been introduced to the entire Chinese market,” he said.

    With 40 global production facilities and 49 R&D centers, Case IH plans to expand its investments in Heilongjiang over the next five years by localizing components, developing advanced combine harvesters, and expanding exports from its Harbin base, according to Pauwels.

    Cao Jingheng, senior vice president of Nestle Greater China, attributed the renewed confidence of foreign companies to Heilongjiang’s “revitalization through opening up” strategy. The province’s fertile black soil, premium dairy pastures, and business-friendly policies prompted Nestle to establish its first Chinese mainland factory in Harbin’s Shuangcheng district in 1987. To date, the Swiss conglomerate has invested 3 billion yuan in the province, supporting 33,000 dairy households and creating 10,000 jobs.

    “China is now Nestle’s second-largest global market. We look forward to further strengthening our cooperation with Heilongjiang by introducing Swiss technologies and managerial experience, while bringing more premium local products to international markets,” Cao said.

    The fair also attracted new entrants like Canadian athletic apparel brand Lululemon. Since opening its first store in Heilongjiang in 2022, sales have surged, according to Kang Tai, the company’s general manager of government affairs.

    “We are confident about our development in Heilongjiang and plan to expand our presence and collaborate with the province to promote winter sports development,” Kang said.

    Ren Hongbin, chairman of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade, emphasized China’s enduring appeal to global investors, adding that the fair and the concurrent events serve as a vital platform for international businesses to explore opportunities in Heilongjiang and beyond. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC May 21, 2025 0600 UTC Day 2 Convective Outlook

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

     For best viewing experience, please enable browser JavaScript support.

    May 21, 2025 0600 UTC Day 2 Convective Outlook

    Updated: Wed May 21 06:05:58 UTC 2025 (Print Version |   |  )

    Probabilistic to Categorical Outlook Conversion Table

     Forecast Discussion

    SPC AC 210605

    Day 2 Convective Outlook CORR 1
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    0105 AM CDT Wed May 21 2025

    Valid 221200Z – 231200Z

    …THERE IS A MARGINAL RISK OF SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS FOR PORTIONS OF
    THE SOUTHERN PLAINS AND SOUTHEAST FLORIDA….

    CORRECTED FOR MISSING HEADLINE INFORMATION

    …SUMMARY…
    A few severe storms are possible across parts of the southern High
    Plains on Thursday.

    …Synopsis…
    A mid-level ridge will amplify somewhat as it shifts east across the
    Rockies. Northwest flow aloft will be present across the High Plains
    with weak southeasterly upslope flow at the surface. Lee troughing
    will begin during the period which will lead to some strengthening
    of the low-level flow.

    …Southern Plains Vicinity…
    Elevated thunderstorms may be ongoing at the beginning of the period
    across Oklahoma within a zone of isentropic ascent. Destabilization
    south of this cluster may support strengthening through the morning
    and into the afternoon with additional storms possible on the
    western flank. Isolated severe wind gusts and large hail will be
    possible from this activity.

    Farther west, isolated storms are expected to develop along the
    dryline in the southern High Plains from Southwest Oklahoma to West
    Texas. Storms will likely initiate within the hot, well-mixed
    airmass and eventually move into better instability with eastward
    extent. Shear is forecast to be somewhat marginal at this time which
    may limit storm organization and a greater severe weather threat.

    …Southeast Florida Peninsula…
    A mid-level shortwave trough will move across the Florida Peninsula
    on Thursday. 500mb temperatures will cool to around -10C.
    Strengthening flow aloft, with the associated mid-level shortwave
    trough, will provide effective shear around 35 to 40 knots. The cool
    mid-level temperatures will aid in development of moderate
    instability across the region by early afternoon. Thunderstorm
    development is expected along the east-coast sea breeze during the
    afternoon with some rotating updrafts possible. Isolated large hail
    and damaging wind gusts will be possible from this activity.

    ..Bentley.. 05/21/2025

    CLICK TO GET WUUS02 PTSDY2 PRODUCT

    NOTE: THE NEXT DAY 2 OUTLOOK IS SCHEDULED BY 1730Z

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    MIL OSI USA News –