Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Kyiv, July 2 (Xinhua) — Ukraine has not received any official notifications from the United States about the suspension or revision of the delivery schedules of previously approved military aid, the Ukrainian Defense Ministry reported on Telegram on Wednesday in response to media reports that the Pentagon had allegedly temporarily stopped supplying official Kyiv with some types of ammunition.
The Ministry of Defense noted that the department requested a telephone conversation with representatives of the United States to clarify all the details.
At the same time, the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry invited the US Chargé d’Affaires in Ukraine, John Ginkel, to discuss American military aid and defense cooperation between the two countries.
During the meeting, Deputy Foreign Minister of Ukraine Maryana Betsa thanked Washington for the security support provided to Kyiv since the beginning of the Russian-Ukrainian armed conflict and stressed the critical importance of continuing the delivery of previously approved military assistance.
The day before, the media reported that the Pentagon had allegedly suspended the transfer of certain types of precision-guided munitions to Ukraine due to the depletion of US stockpiles. –0–
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BEIJING, July 2 (Xinhua) — China’s electronic information industry recorded relatively rapid growth in the first five months of 2025, data from the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology showed.
According to the agency, the added value of large industry enterprises increased by 11.1 percent year-on-year during the specified period.
During the reporting period, the total revenue of large enterprises in the sector increased by 9.4 percent year-on-year to 6.49 trillion yuan (about 907.11 billion US dollars), and their total profit increased by 11.9 percent, amounting to 216.2 billion yuan.
Large companies in China’s electronic information sector are defined as those with annual revenues of 20 million yuan or more. –0–
July 2, 2025 – Ottawa – National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces
Exercise TRIDENT FURY 2025 (Ex TF25) concluded yesterday following two weeks of multinational training activities conducted across southern Vancouver Island. The exercise brought together over 1,000 military personnel, including five Royal Canadian Navy vessels, Royal Canadian Air Force aircrafts, Canadian Army personnel, and ships from the United States Navy, United States Coast Guard, and Mexican Navy.
Hosted by Maritime Forces Pacific, Ex TF25 focused on enhancing interoperability among allied and partner forces across a range of operations. These included anti-submarine warfare, uncrewed aircraft systems, gunnery and air defence, mine countermeasures, maritime interdiction, and defence against small boat attacks. This year’s iteration also included participation by the 4th Canadian Ranger Patrol Group, whose members contributed to surveillance training and sovereignty protection tasks.
Exercises like TRIDENT FURY are essential to sustaining the operational readiness of the Canadian Armed Forces and ensuring they remain agile and responsive in an evolving security environment. The successful completion of Ex TF25 demonstrates Canada’s commitment to advancing joint capability development and strengthening defence partnerships in support of regional and global stability.
MONTGOMERY — In recognition of National “Made in the USA” Day on July 2, 2025, Governor Kay Ivey today signed a formal proclamation celebrating Alabama’s manufacturing community and its critical role in driving economic growth across the state.
“On this ‘Made in the USA’ Day, we proudly salute the hardworking Alabamians who make our state a true manufacturing powerhouse,” saidGovernor Ivey. “Alabama ranks among the top five states for manufacturing job concentration, and that’s the result of strong partnerships, innovative thinking and a tireless commitment to quality.”
Manufacturing accounts for nearly 16% of Alabama’s Gross Domestic Product, with economic output exceeding $50 billion last year, according to data from the National Association of Manufacturers industry group.
The sector includes a broad range of industries, from automotive and aerospace to metals and kitchen appliances. It supports more than 290,000 jobs across all regions of Alabama.
Governor Ivey emphasized the continued focus of her Administration on strengthening this vital sector, which encompasses more than 4,000 enterprises across the state.
“We’re building for the future — through workforce training programs, infrastructure investment and a pro-growth business climate that attracts world-class companies to Alabama,” said Governor Ivey. “These efforts are paying off in the form of new jobs, rising wages and thriving communities.”
Alabama Department of Commerce Secretary Ellen McNair echoed the governor’s message, noting the strategic importance of manufacturing in the state’s long-term economic development goals.
“From motor vehicles and rockets to aircraft and steel, Alabama manufacturers are producing the goods that move the world,” said Secretary McNair. “This sector fuels innovation and opportunity across our state, and we are deeply committed to supporting its continued success.”
The Alabama Department of Commerce has played a key role in facilitating the state’s manufacturing momentum through initiatives like the Catalyst strategic plan, the Alabama Development Fund and other initiatives— all designed to accelerate job creation, upskill the workforce and open new opportunities in rural and urban areas alike.
Manufactured goods from Alabama are sold across the world, driving exports from the state to exceed $26.8 billion in value during 2024, the second highest annual figure. Motor vehicles are the state’s top export category, and Alabama ranks as the nation’s No. 2 auto-exporting state.
Manufacturing jobs in Alabama also provide for a good living. According to the National Association of Manufacturers, average annual wages in Alabama’s manufacturing sector exceed $85,000.
“Manufacturing remains the backbone of Alabama’s economy, and our industry is powered by the incredible men and women who show up every day to make world-class products,” said Manufacture Alabama President and CEO Jon Bargainer.
“Thanks to Governor Ivey’s leadership and the strength of our workforce, the industry continues to thrive, contributing positively to both urban and rural communities throughout our state,” added Bargainer. “Manufacturers offer some of the most meaningful careers that support Alabama’s families and secure a prosperous future.”
WASHINGTON, D.C.– Today, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02)cosponsored H.R. 1314, the Tipped Income Protection and Support (TIPS) Actto permanently eliminate federal income taxes on tips and end the sub-minimum wage for tipped workers.
“This bill is about justice, dignity, and economic fairness for the workers who keep our restaurants, hotels, and service industries running,” said Vasquez. “No one working a full-time job should be stuck with a $2.13 wage or taxed on the tips they rely on to make ends meet. This legislation puts more money back in the pockets of hardworking New Mexicans and ensures no one is left behind in today’s economy.”
The TIPS Actwould exempt tipped income from federal income tax for workers earning under $112,500 annually and end the federal tipped minimum wage, currently set at just $2.13 an hour. Nearly six million Americans rely on tips to pay the bills, with many earning less than $37,000 a year.
The TIPS Actpermanently protects Americans’ tips income from federal taxation. By contrast, the no tax on tips provisions in the Big Ugly Big exempt taxes on tips for only four years – while cutting health care benefits for millions to pay for permanent tax breaks for the wealthy.
Rep. Vasquez remains committed to lowering costs and delivering real results for New Mexico’s working families. He previously introduced a package of tax bills to benefit the middle class, address rising costs, and incentives businesses to hire veterans.
WASHINGTON, D.C.– Today, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) joined bipartisan members of the Congressional Native American Caucus in urging House leadership to protect and strengthen federal funding for Tribal programs in the Fiscal Year 2026 budget.
In a letter to House Appropriations Chairman Tom Cole and Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro, the lawmakers called on Congress to fully uphold the United States’ trust and treaty obligations to Tribal Nations by preserving and expanding investments in Tribal health, education, infrastructure, law enforcement, and self-governance programs.
“When America makes a promise,we should keep it. The federal government has a legal and moral obligation to uphold its trust and treaty obligations to Tribal Nations,” saidVasquez. “This funding helps ensure New Mexico’s Tribes and Pueblos receive the full support they deserve so they can keep everything from the Indian Health Service to Tribal schools and justice systems up and running.”
The lawmakers emphasized that funding for Tribal Nations is not discretionary—it is a federal responsibility. The letter highlighted the importance of supporting Tribal Nations and their development by expanding flexible and consistent funding and supporting the federal employees and offices that deliver Tribal services.
Rep. Vasquez continues to champion investments that promote economic growth, improve public safety, and enhance quality of life in Tribal communities — efforts that benefit not only Tribal Nations but all of New Mexico and the country.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Speech
King’s Birthday Party 2025: His Majesty’s Ambassador Alyson King’s speech
His Majesty’s Ambassador to the Democratic Republic of Congo Alyson King’s speech on the King’s Birthday Party delivered on 19 June.
Your Excellency the President of the Republic, represented here by his principal advisor in charge of the College of Environment, Urban Planning and Mobility, HE Ambassador Tosi Mpanu Mpanu,
Honourable Senators and Members of Parliament,
Your Excellencies, distinguished members of the national and provincial governments, and their representatives here present,
Madam SRSG and Head of MONUSCO,
Excellencies, my fellow Ambassadors and heads of international organisations,
Dear members of the diplomatic corps and international organisations,
Distinguished religious and civil authorities, members of political parties,
Dear partners,
Eminent representatives of civil society and the world of culture,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Distinguished guests,
Dear friends,
All protocol observed
Boyei malamu na moto nyonso! (Welcome to everyone!)
Thank you all for coming. Your presence helps to create a special atmosphere as we celebrate the official birthday of King Charles III. It’s also an opportunity to celebrate the links between the UK and the DRC.
The UK established its first diplomatic mission here in 1902, when a British consulate was built in the then capital, Boma.
But even though our relationship is 123 years old this year, I think we’re just getting started!
I’m going to repeat what I said last year:
We still do not know each other as well as we might. It remains my firm conviction that the more we know and understand each other, the more opportunities we will find to do good things together.
That’s enough recycling, at least for words!
The past year has been marked by undeniably negative events, and I’d like to say a few words about them before turning to more encouraging aspects.
In January, the battle for Goma began when Rwandan troops and the M23 attacked. Many civilians died, as did members of MONUSCO and SAMIDRC. Many people were forced to move – once again – and numerous human rights violations were committed by all the actors on the ground. I was forced to close our office in Goma.
A few days later, several embassies – both African and Western – and diplomatic residences in Kinshasa were attacked and looted. Perhaps the oldest principle of international public law is “don’t shoot the messenger”. Peaceful demonstration is an essential democratic right and freedom; as diplomats, we are there to understand and convey messages, particularly when the situation is difficult. But this type of violence is unacceptable and counter-productive. It delayed the international response to events in the east of the country rather than encouraging it.
Today, a record 5 million people live under occupation in the east of the DRC, under the administration of a UN-sanctioned rebel group.
I want to be very clear.
The UK Government condemns the actions of all illegal armed groups in eastern DRC, including the M23. The UK Government has expressed its deep concern about the support of the Rwandan Defence Forces (RDF) to the M23 in offensives that violate the territorial integrity of the Democratic Republic of Congo. In response, the UK Government has announced a major reassessment of its policy towards Kigali, including the suspension of the majority of its financial support.
Security Council Resolution 2773, adopted unanimously by its 15 members, calls for the immediate and unconditional withdrawal of the M23 and the RDF. It has not yet been implemented. We welcome all the efforts currently being made to find a political solution to this situation.
At a time when the international system based on norms and international law is being called into question, whether in the Middle East, Ukraine, Sudan or the DRC, leadership is required more than ever.
This leadership must be both courageous and wise, ready to take the necessary difficult measures and brave reforms.
Against this backdrop, there are many reasons to be optimistic about relations between the UK and the DRC.
You’ll see many examples of our collaboration in this garden.
I’m delighted to welcome back some of our Chevening alumni, and even more delighted to announce that we are increasing the number of scholarships available to talented young Congolese leaders to study for a Masters degree, fully funded by the UK, in the UK.
Much of the UK’s work in the country is targeted at communities in the east. For example, new UK funding will provide clean water and sanitation to around 200,000 displaced people, in partnership with UNICEF and the SAFER consortium.
On this day, International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict, I would like to underline the priority that the UK Government gives to supporting survivors of sexual violence and fighting impunity. I reiterate my congratulations to the DRC for being the first state in the world to condemn the crime of forced pregnancy. I hope we can work together to provide global leadership on these vital issues in the years ahead.
We congratulate the DRC on its election to the Security Council as of 1 January and look forward to working together on issues crucial to international peace and security.
In the field of health, our partnerships with UNICEF and the WHO are supporting the government’s response to the ongoing Mpox and cholera epidemics, and helping more than 4.4 million Congolese people. I was delighted to meet some Mpox survivors in Kinshasa recently; one young man thought he would never get out of hospital alive because he was so ill. Looking at him today, you’d never guess, he’s so healthy and cheerful.
On climate and the environment, the UK co-chairs the Donor College of the Congo Basin Forest Partnership in the Central African Forest Initiative (CAFI). Our new £90 million action programme supports local communities around the Yangambi Biosphere Reserve, improving economic livelihoods while preserving forests and nature.
And I’m proud that our programme is also building the DRC’s capacity in climate science in collaboration with British universities.
I would like to salute the work of the Head of State, for his renewed commitment to economic reform. Tangible improvements to the business climate, such as simpler and more predictable procedures and taxation, as well as greater transparency, will attract foreign direct investment and lead to the creation of well-paid jobs.
British companies have shown their interest in the economic potential of the DRC. For example, British International Investment’s investment alongside DP World in the DRC’s first deep-water container port at Banana will open up new infrastructure and international trade opportunities for the country.
As a global centre of mining expertise, trade and finance, the UK is particularly well placed to support the DRC’s ambition to develop its mining sector and bring its critical minerals, which are vital to global economies, to all Congolese.
This evening, I’m delighted that several Congolese companies with links to the UK are here, and in particular several of them have been able to contribute to this fantastic event.
I would like to thank our generous sponsors: Socimex, Rawbank, Vodacom, G4S, Helios Towers, HJ Hospital, Médecins de Nuit, Diageo, Canalbox, Manga Flore Gardening Services, Centre Médical Diamant and BAM’s Clean, without whom this evening would not have been possible.
My thanks also go to my team who work tirelessly, not just for this event, but also for their dedication on a daily basis enabling the Embassy to function well and for us make a difference.
Dear guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
The Democratic Republic of Congo is an important partner and friend for the United Kingdom. In recent years, the ties of friendship between our two countries have grown stronger. H.E. President Felix Tshisekedi was one of the first heads of state to meet His Majesty King Charles III after his accession to the throne.
We salute the work of H.E. Mrs Judith Suminwa, the first female Prime Minister of the DRC, and all the members of the Government present here today.
My country’s wish is to embark on the next phase of this relationship, working in collaboration with the DRC’s leaders, civil society, businesses and health and climate experts.
I sincerely hope that we’ll get to know each other better and that we’ll achieve even more great things together.
The council is working on the trial with others to prove how Technology Enabled Care (TEC) can help improve lives.
The pilot is led by WM5G on behalf of the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) and funded by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) under the 5G Innovation Region scheme.
It is focused on the eligible care and support needs of people aged 65 and over, people with learning disabilities and those with physical disabilities.
As part of the project technology being used in people’s homes to support care needs includes devices and voice activated wireless technologies such as video care phones, smart speakers, smart doorbells and smart smoke alarms.
Residents have also been making use of digital pendants helping keep them safe at home and when out and about through location pinpointing, fall detection and direct communication with emergency support.
Wolverhampton resident Carol, who has vascular dementia, is among the participants, supported by WM5G digital care navigators and her daughter Caroline.
She said: “This technology is like having a friend. I don’t feel alone, I feel safe, and that has given me a lot of confidence both in and out of the house.”
Caroline said: “Mum is of a generation where technology is not really their thing at all, but this is easy to use, and the support team have been brilliant talking her through it. It has been very beneficial and reassuring for us.”
You can watch Carol and her daughter talk more about the TEC trial by watching the video here.
Councillor Paula Brookfield, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Adults, said: “While we are in the early stages of understanding the potential of this technology, it can help make a positive difference providing tailored packages, optimising carer visits and delaying the need for additional care.”
Councillor Jeszemma Howl, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Governance and Digital, said: “It is lovely to hear how putting technology to use in this way can transform the lives of people like Carol right across our city, empowering independence and improving wellbeing.”
More than 301 referrals have been made in Wolverhampton alone since the start of the project in September 2024 with over 2,500 pieces of TEC equipment deployed to support independent living.
Findings from the project will help inform a business case for development of TEC in the future.
Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Russia’s border regions continue to develop systematically, despite external challenges. Kursk Oblast is increasing the pace of resettlement of dilapidated housing. This was reported by Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin.
“Residents of border areas today face difficult challenges. In such conditions, it is especially important to provide them with support. Our task is not only to ensure safety, but also to help maintain confidence in the future, creating conditions for a comfortable life. Kursk Region has successfully completed the program of resettling houses recognized as unsafe before January 2017. To provide additional support to the region, the remainder of unused funds allocated for the resettlement of such houses have been redistributed. The Territorial Development Fund has approved the corresponding application. This will allow resettling another 90 residents from 45 residential premises with a total area of over 1,000 square meters, recognized as unsuitable after 2017,” said Marat Khusnullin.
According to the acting governor of Kursk region Alexander Khinshtein, dozens of buildings in the region have been declared unfit for habitation: cracks in load-bearing structures, rotten floors, emergency communications. People have been waiting for resettlement in these difficult conditions for years.
“Therefore, the decision of the Territorial Development Fund to allocate almost 91 million rubles is a critically important step. We are grateful for this support, and we will continue to persistently seek the allocation of additional resources from the federal center for these needs,” said Alexander Khinshtein.
The operator of the program for the resettlement of emergency housing is the Territorial Development Fund.
“The main goals of the program are to ensure comfortable living conditions for citizens and reduce the dilapidated housing stock. Since 2019, more than 850 thousand residents have been resettled from 14.5 million square meters of dilapidated housing in Russia. In the Kursk region alone, 1.6 thousand people have moved from 22.2 thousand square meters. The program is being implemented as part of the national project “Infrastructure for Life”, – noted the company’s general director Vasily Kupyzin.
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.
Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
The selection stage of the seventh stream of the “Architects.rf” program, which is carried out by the state company “DOM.RF”, has been completed. 100 finalists were determined at a committee meeting, which was attended by 22 experts, including representatives of educational institutions, heads of regional authorities, chief architects of cities and regions, as well as graduates of the program from previous years. This was reported by Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin.
“The profession of an architect plays an important role in creating a comfortable urban environment. The cities we will live in tomorrow, how comfortable, beautiful and harmonious they will be, depend on their professionalism. This is why the “Architects.rf” program is so important. This year, it received a record 1,233 applications from specialists from 87 regions of the country – this is the best result in the seven years of the project, which is being implemented on behalf of the President. It is currently being carried out within the framework of the national project “Infrastructure for Life”. Currently, the selection stage of the seventh stream of this program has been completed and 100 finalists have been determined, who will soon begin their studies. This program helps to fill the shortage of qualified personnel for the development of cities, and also forms a new generation of professionals capable of creating a comfortable and modern environment. Thus, more than 600 graduates are already contributing to the transformation of Russian territories – from megacities to small towns,” said Marat Khusnullin.
The finalists included representatives of 14 professions: architects and urban planners, representatives of state and municipal authorities, urbanists, developers, sociologists, ecologists and other specialists from all over the country. The leaders among cities in terms of the number of program participants were Moscow, St. Petersburg, Kazan, Yekaterinburg and Irkutsk.
“This year, when launching a new stream of “Architects.rf”, we felt the support of the regions and the expert community more than ever. Today, when goals have been set for the development of our cities and agglomerations, the country needs professionals who understand how to achieve these goals efficiently and in a timely manner. Specialists from 61 cities and 52 regions have joined the program – from the Baltic to the Bering Sea, many of them already have considerable experience in creating comfortable urban spaces. One of the important achievements of the project is the formed community of managers who are already implementing their projects, including solutions for the preservation of historical heritage, national cultural codes and traditions,” said Vitaly Mutko, General Director of “DOM.RF”.
At the first stage of the competitive selection, participants filled out questionnaires and sent their portfolios to the competition organizers for consideration. The next step was a video interview, in which candidates shared their professional experience and views on various aspects of urban development.
Participants in the qualification selection will undergo an educational program lasting about 8 months, consisting of 4 full-time modules. It includes various training formats: research trips around Russia and abroad, lectures, meetings with experts and work in project groups. The first module will be held in Moscow in July and will be dedicated to the development of professional competencies of the participants. The training format includes lectures, trainings, practical classes, educational expeditions and much more.
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.
Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Patrushev held a meeting within the framework of incident No. 58 “Organization of the system for handling municipal solid waste”. The work was attended by the management of relevant departments, industry companies, heads of regions and representatives of the Federal Assembly.
“We continue to move steadily towards solving the tasks outlined by the President to form a closed-loop economy. In recent months, six solid municipal waste handling facilities have been commissioned – in Perm Krai, Tomsk and Lipetsk Oblasts, the Udmurt Republic and the Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Okrug. Their combined capacity is 0.5 million tons for processing and 170 thousand tons for disposal of solid municipal waste,” said Dmitry Patrushev.
The Deputy Prime Minister noted that, according to plans, five more facilities should be completed by the end of the year.
In accordance with the Presidential Decree, sorting by 2030 should reach 100%, and landfill disposal should decrease to 50%, while a quarter of the waste should be returned for recirculation. At present, 57% of waste is processed in our country, and slightly more than 80% is sent to landfills. Dmitry Patrushev emphasized that the dynamics of achieving planned values ahead of schedule must be maintained, while increasing the scale of infrastructure construction.
The Deputy Prime Minister also noted a positive trend during the first half of the year in a number of regions in terms of updating the fleet of special equipment, equipping container sites and purchasing containers. Dmitry Patrushev instructed to continue this work under the supervision of the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Russian Ecological Operator.
The incident was used to analyze the work on concluding concession agreements for the construction of industry infrastructure. In March of this year, the Government provided such an opportunity to 19 regions. The Deputy Prime Minister instructed to speed up the conclusion of such agreements.
The issue of supplying garbage trucks to the constituent entities of the Russian Federation under the preferential leasing program, launched for the first time this year, was also raised. The limit provided for 2025 is 420 million rubles. This will ensure the supply of more than 1.2 thousand vehicles to the regions.
The incident meeting discussed the introduction of a system for photographic recording of the state of sites in the country with the transfer of data to the federal system for recording solid municipal waste. Following the meeting, seven regions were recommended to eliminate the backlog and ensure the introduction of the system into operation.
Incident No. 58 “Organization of a system for handling municipal solid waste” was created on the instructions of the Chairman of the Government to ensure the implementation of reform in the area of waste management.
When working in the incident format, a special project management system is used, which is deployed on the basis of the Government Coordination Center. It allows for prompt coordination of the actions of participants and monitoring of project implementation in real time.
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.
Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov is acting as a mentor for a participant in the presidential personnel program, implemented by the Higher School of Public Administration of the Presidential Academy.
Lieutenant Colonel Nikolai Shpitonkov is a Hero of Russia, holder of two Orders of Courage, and was awarded the Nesterov Medal. During the meeting, the mentor and participant agreed that Nikolai would undergo his first internship in the direction of the country’s defense complex.
“It is a great honor for me to undergo an internship under such an experienced mentor as Denis Valentinovich. It is important for me to try to adopt everything that he considers necessary to teach me, given his enormous experience. Today, during our first meeting, we discussed the areas in which I would be interested in developing, and outlined the key aspects of the upcoming internship. I am grateful to Denis Valentinovich for his attention and involvement in the issues of my training,” said Nikolai Shpitonkov.
Let us recall that Denis Manturov is also a mentor of the participant of the first stream of the “Time of Heroes” program, holder of three Orders of Courage Denis Pogodin.
The goal of the program is to train leaders from among the participants of the special military operation for subsequent work in state and municipal authorities, as well as state-owned companies. The program is implemented by the Higher School of Public Administration of the Presidential Academy in cooperation with the Senezh Management Workshop.
The selection criteria for the training program were: demonstrated heroism within the framework of the SVO, management experience and achievements in the military or civilian spheres, as well as the results of assessment activities to determine management potential.
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.
MENLO PARK, Calif., July 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Joveo, the global leader in AI-led, high-performance recruitment marketing, has been recognized as a Strategic Challenger in the 2025 Fosway Group 9-Grid™ for Talent Acquisition. This recognition underscores Joveo’s innovative approach and unwavering commitment to reshaping the future of recruitment with cutting-edge technology and data-driven solutions.
The Fosway Group 9-Grid™, a well-regarded market analysis model, evaluates providers on their potential, performance, market presence, trajectory, and total cost of ownership. According to Fosway, Strategic Challengers “provide solid performance with solutions that have a richer and broader suite of capability than most other solutions in the Fosway 9-Grid™.” Joveo’s placement in this category highlights the company’s growing influence, strong capabilities, and proven success within the talent acquisition ecosystem.
“Market conditions remain challenging for many TA solution providers, mainly due to the confluence of technological change and a high concentration of candidates,” said Dr. Sven Elbert, Head of Analyst Services at Fosway Group. “Despite this, growth in recruitment marketing continues apace with companies like Joveo still innovating and winning business. We congratulate them on their move to Strategic Challenger this year.”
“This recognition reinforces what we’ve known all along – there’s a better, smarter way to hire,” said Kshitij Jain, Founder and CEO of Joveo. “To us, it’s about attracting the right talent and optimizing their experience to source the best fit. We’re not just improving talent acquisition – we’re rebuilding it from the ground up with AI at the core. Our platform delivers the efficiency, personalization, and measurable ROI that traditional methods can’t match. We’re here to challenge the status quo and redefine what great recruiting looks like.”
Joveo’s placement in the 2025 9-Grid™ reflects the company’s technology leadership, rapid growth, global expansion, and continuous investment in AI to streamline and optimize recruiting. The recognition also highlights the strong partnerships Joveo has cultivated with leading employers and applicant tracking systems, and the tangible hiring outcomes delivered through its solutions.
As Joveo continues to challenge the status quo, the company remains focused on delivering scalable, future-ready solutions that address the evolving needs of talent acquisition teams across industries and geographies.
To learn more about Joveo’s award-winning platform and solutions, visit www.joveo.com.
About Joveo
As the global leader in AI-powered, high-performance recruitment marketing, Joveo is transforming talent attraction and recruitment media buying for the world’s largest employers, staffing firms, RPOs, and media agencies. The Joveo platform enables businesses to attract, source, engage, and hire the best candidates on time and within budget.
Powering millions of jobs every day, Joveo’s AI-led recruitment marketing platform uses advanced data science and machine learning to dynamically manage and optimize talent sourcing and applications across all online channels, while providing real-time insights at every step of the job seeker journey, from click to hire.
For more information about Joveo’s award-winning platform, visit www.joveo.com.
Contact: Heather van Werkhooven Sr. Director, Content and Thought Leadership Joveo pr@joveo.com
MENLO PARK, Calif., July 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Joveo, the global leader in AI-led, high-performance recruitment marketing, has been recognized as a Strategic Challenger in the 2025 Fosway Group 9-Grid™ for Talent Acquisition. This recognition underscores Joveo’s innovative approach and unwavering commitment to reshaping the future of recruitment with cutting-edge technology and data-driven solutions.
The Fosway Group 9-Grid™, a well-regarded market analysis model, evaluates providers on their potential, performance, market presence, trajectory, and total cost of ownership. According to Fosway, Strategic Challengers “provide solid performance with solutions that have a richer and broader suite of capability than most other solutions in the Fosway 9-Grid™.” Joveo’s placement in this category highlights the company’s growing influence, strong capabilities, and proven success within the talent acquisition ecosystem.
“Market conditions remain challenging for many TA solution providers, mainly due to the confluence of technological change and a high concentration of candidates,” said Dr. Sven Elbert, Head of Analyst Services at Fosway Group. “Despite this, growth in recruitment marketing continues apace with companies like Joveo still innovating and winning business. We congratulate them on their move to Strategic Challenger this year.”
“This recognition reinforces what we’ve known all along – there’s a better, smarter way to hire,” said Kshitij Jain, Founder and CEO of Joveo. “To us, it’s about attracting the right talent and optimizing their experience to source the best fit. We’re not just improving talent acquisition – we’re rebuilding it from the ground up with AI at the core. Our platform delivers the efficiency, personalization, and measurable ROI that traditional methods can’t match. We’re here to challenge the status quo and redefine what great recruiting looks like.”
Joveo’s placement in the 2025 9-Grid™ reflects the company’s technology leadership, rapid growth, global expansion, and continuous investment in AI to streamline and optimize recruiting. The recognition also highlights the strong partnerships Joveo has cultivated with leading employers and applicant tracking systems, and the tangible hiring outcomes delivered through its solutions.
As Joveo continues to challenge the status quo, the company remains focused on delivering scalable, future-ready solutions that address the evolving needs of talent acquisition teams across industries and geographies.
To learn more about Joveo’s award-winning platform and solutions, visit www.joveo.com.
About Joveo
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HONG KONG, July 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Naslab Reserve International, the marketing arm of Nastech Global, announced the launch of Ncore, a new trading bot to assist users in navigating financial markets worldwide. As part of its mission to bridge traditional financial expertise with the digital asset sector, Naslab Reserve promotes innovative solutions, including cryptocurrency reserves, staking programs, and automated trading tools developed by Nastech Global.
Naslab Reserve is a major facilitator and will guarantee that Nastech’s technological developments get exposure to the whole world. The company specializes in making available tools for analyzing market trends and making informed decisions in different fields, including stocks, forex, and cryptocurrency. Naslab Reserve will provide secure resources to its clients by utilizing the strong security procedures in Nastech that comprise multilayered security and encryption. This strategy is meant to accommodate various customers, including both individual and business customers, and assist them in adapting to the changing times in the financial world. You can find more about their approach and offerings by visiting https://www.naslabreserve.com.
Ncore, which is a product of Nastech Global and is sold under the label Naslab Reserve, is targeted at promoting efficiency in trading, which is spread across various financial sectors. Its important peculiarities are mempool scanning, which shows a set of pending blockchain transactions to find out trade opportunities, and gas fee optimization, which adjusts the costs of transactions to provide faster and more cost-efficient runs. Also, Ncore will have order book inspection to place trades in an advantageous position before changes in the market and smart contract insight to react to happenings in the current market.
The interface of the bot is made friendly such that people with diverse experiences can use the tools available. Ncore attempts to offer machine-based approaches that evolve with the market conditions to present users with an opportunity to investigate opportunities, with an effort to manage the risks associated with the opportunities. The marketing plan of Naslab Reserve focuses on transparent communication of the functionality of the Ncore, such as training information and services supporting users in adopting the presence of the bot into their trading process. The company will also collect the feedback of the user to perfect the functionality of Ncore to suit the requirements of a large user base around the world.
Naslab Reserve believes in building long-term growth with strategic connections. The company also collaborates with foreign partners to increase its presence and offer customers an extended network of financial opportunities to explore. The partnerships are meant to amplify the expansion of Ncore, which is a bundle of Nastech products, to the various geographical locations. Naslab Reserve intends to help its clients achieve portfolio diversification and long-term wealth increases through the integration of traditional financial services with its digital products.
Naslab Reserve still focuses on security and transparency as the major aspects of its work. The firm also makes sure that the security of Nastech is found in all the products that are marketed, and this means that there is a routine audit procedure and that risks and advantages are well documented. All this is to create some form of trust in the minds of users who are using new technology in the financial arena. Long-term, in 2026, Naslab Reserve aims to offer scalable SaaS solutions that are dependent on client feedback and market research and help it continue to pursue its mission of innovation.
The introduction of Ncore is a step toward a new definition of automated trading tools. Naslab Reserve intends to establish the bot as an authoritative source for people who need to explore the complexity of markets all over the world. The promotional activities of the company shall further emphasize the technological expertise of Nastech, such that the clients are always assured of the value of their interactions with these solutions.
About Naslab Reserve International
Naslab Reserve International is the marketing arm of Nastech Global, a group that is at the forefront of the development of financial technology. The firm also commits to marketing a variety of innovative offerings such as cryptocurrency deposits, staking systems, and automated trade services. Naslab Reserve aims to integrate traditional finance with new digital asset exchange and provide the clients with the tools and an understanding of the changing environment. The Naslab Reserve seeks to safeguard the success of its international customer base in the long term with its focus on security, transparency, and international collaboration.
Disclaimer: This press release is provided byNaslab Reserve Limited. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility.
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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Jake Ellzey (Texas, 6)
Washington, D.C. — Congressman Jake Ellzey (TX-06) released the following statement after voting in favor of the Fiscal Year 2026 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act:
“This bill keeps faith with our veterans and military families. It fully funds veterans’ health care, invests in military housing, and strengthens the infrastructure our servicemembers rely on,”said Congressman Ellzey.“It also ensures taxpayer dollars are focused where they belong, supporting those who served.”
The FY26 MilCon-VA bill provides $453 billion in total funding, including $131.4 billion for veterans’ medical care and $2 billion for Military Family Housing. It includes over $1.2 billion to improve Guard and Reserve facilities and prohibits taxpayer funds for DEI programs, gender surgeries at the VA, or medical care for illegal aliens. It also blocks the VA from purchasing resources from China and protects veterans’ Second Amendment rights.
“Our job is simple—putting our servicemembers and veterans first,“Ellzey said.
Key Provisions of the FY26 MilCon-VA Appropriations Act:
$453 billion in total funding, including $152 billion in discretionary funding—$5 billion above last year.
$131.4 billion for veterans’ medical care, fully meeting the FY26 Budget Request.
$2 billion for Military Family Housing, focused on improving conditions for servicemembers and their families.
Over $1.2 billion for Guard and Reserve facility construction.
Prohibits funds for DEI programs and gender surgeries at the VA, and protects Hyde-like language.
Supports veteran homelessness initiatives, including the Bridging Rental Assistance for Veteran Empowerment program.
Prevents VA from reporting veterans to the FBI without a judge’s consent.
Blocks VA medical care for illegal aliens.
Prohibits the VA from purchasing resources from China.
Continues investment in military infrastructure, including projects in the Indo-Pacific.
Maintains prohibitions on closing Naval Station Guantanamo Bay or building facilities for detainees on U.S. soil.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Jake Ellzey (Texas, 6)
Washington, D.C. — Congressman Jake Ellzey (TX-06) released the following statement after voting in favor of the Fiscal Year 2026 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act:
“This bill keeps faith with our veterans and military families. It fully funds veterans’ health care, invests in military housing, and strengthens the infrastructure our servicemembers rely on,”said Congressman Ellzey.“It also ensures taxpayer dollars are focused where they belong, supporting those who served.”
The FY26 MilCon-VA bill provides $453 billion in total funding, including $131.4 billion for veterans’ medical care and $2 billion for Military Family Housing. It includes over $1.2 billion to improve Guard and Reserve facilities and prohibits taxpayer funds for DEI programs, gender surgeries at the VA, or medical care for illegal aliens. It also blocks the VA from purchasing resources from China and protects veterans’ Second Amendment rights.
“Our job is simple—putting our servicemembers and veterans first,“Ellzey said.
Key Provisions of the FY26 MilCon-VA Appropriations Act:
$453 billion in total funding, including $152 billion in discretionary funding—$5 billion above last year.
$131.4 billion for veterans’ medical care, fully meeting the FY26 Budget Request.
$2 billion for Military Family Housing, focused on improving conditions for servicemembers and their families.
Over $1.2 billion for Guard and Reserve facility construction.
Prohibits funds for DEI programs and gender surgeries at the VA, and protects Hyde-like language.
Supports veteran homelessness initiatives, including the Bridging Rental Assistance for Veteran Empowerment program.
Prevents VA from reporting veterans to the FBI without a judge’s consent.
Blocks VA medical care for illegal aliens.
Prohibits the VA from purchasing resources from China.
Continues investment in military infrastructure, including projects in the Indo-Pacific.
Maintains prohibitions on closing Naval Station Guantanamo Bay or building facilities for detainees on U.S. soil.
Statistics South Africa has now commenced with the development of its digital business transformation strategy, which will guide the institution going forward.
Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, outlined the institution’s plans when she tabled its Budget Vote in Parliament on Wednesday afternoon.
“This strategy aligns with South Africa’s Roadmap for Digital Transformation of government that aims to, amongst others, enhance data exchange for improved access to information for improved service delivery.
“Stats SA’s digital transformation journey commenced with the Household Survey programme, transitioning from a paper-based data collection approach to a computer assisted methodology, thereby streamlining survey operations, resulting in significant cost savings,” Ntshavheni said.
She revealed that the institution will, over the next five years, “reinvent its statistical products and processes”.
Key initiatives over the medium-term include:
Researching the use of artificial intelligence in producing official statistics.
Introducing web-based data collection methods in economic statistics programmes.
Applying data science and modern methods to big data and alternative data sources.
Exploring the use of cloud technology in Stats SA.
“The shift to digital platforms is designed to streamline survey operations, making it more efficient and user friendly,” she said.
Ntshavheni said Stats SA’s allocation is R2.7 billion for the 2025/26 financial year, rising to R2.91 billion in 2026/27 and reaching R3.04 billion in 2027/28.
“In a world defined by rapid change, complex challenges and competing narratives, official statistics provides us with one constant: the truth told in numbers.
“They serve as a mirror through which a nation sees itself not just as it is but how its evolving. From economic performance and health outcomes to education levels and environmental conditions, statistics are the evidence base upon which sound decisions are made.”
The Minister urged Parliamentarians to support the budget vote to equip Stats SA to help government navigate ever changing global dynamics.
“It is important to support this budget vote because we are navigating a path in a world that is undergoing rapid and profound changes, and this is equally true in the realm of statistics.
“Global fundamental shifts are reshaping every aspect of human life from the escalating impact of climate change to the swift advancements in artificial intelligence, the rise of digital economies, changing social dynamics and global political tensions.
“By accurately capturing and analysing these trends, we can better equip ourselves to respond to the challenges and opportunities they present – ensuring that our nation remains resilient and forward thinking in this ever-evolving landscape,” Ntshavheni emphasised.
She assured that the institution remains “unwavering in its commitment to the strategy of improving lives through data economic systems”.
“As the landscape of information technology and data analytics continues to transform, our focus is on harnessing the power of data to enhance the wellbeing of our citizens,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Press release
Photographer jailed after sexually assaulting two models
A man who sexually assaulted two men has had his suspended sentence quashed and has been jailed after the Solicitor General intervened
Wayne Glover-Stuart [36] from Chiswick, West London, has had his suspended sentence overturned and jailed for three years after the Solicitor General Lucy Rigby KC MP referred his case to the Court of Appeal.
The court heard that Glover-Stuart, a former theatre producer, invited two men on separate occasions to an underwear modelling photoshoot.
During both incidents, Glover-Stuart touched the victims’ genitals before carrying out sexual assaults.
The Solicitor General Lucy Rigby KC MP said:
Glover-Stuart’s crimes were appalling. He lured his victims into a vulnerable position abusing their trust before sexually assaulted them for his own gratification.
I welcome the Court of Appeal’s decision to increase this offender’s sentence following my intervention.
Wayne Glover-Stuart was sentenced to two years’ imprisonment, suspended for two years, for sexual assault and causing a person to engage in sexual activity without consent, on 16 April 2025 at the Inner London Crown Court.
On 1 July 2025, Glover-Stuart’s suspended sentence was quashed and jailed for three years after it was referred to the Court of Appeal under the Unduly Lenient Sentence scheme.
Children at playgrounds around Leeds are being encouraged to learn sign language as new fun educational boards are installed.
Funded by the National Deaf Children’s Society, two boards have been put up at 10 playgrounds, showcasing the British Sign Language (BSL) fingerspelling alphabet and a selection of helpful words when playing.
Early years can have a profound impact on deaf children’s language and social skills and the aim is that the signs will improve and encourage interaction between all children through playful interaction in the playgrounds.
The grant was awarded as part of a scheme funding community projects that support the communication skills of deaf children.
Bryony Hughes runs Leeds Deaf Children’s Society, which is affiliated with the National Deaf Children’s Society, and was the one to apply for the grant.
She said: “We needed to use the money to improve the communication skills of local deaf children and we thought that putting the signs in parks was a way that we could reach as many families across Leeds as possible
“The aim is that if more people, deaf and hearing, learn some basic BSL then it improves the skills of all involved, and also helps deaf people feel less isolated.
“Our son is profoundly deaf and wears cochlear implants. When he’s not wearing them, we sign with him and it’s important that he has an additional way of communicating with us, and also with other deaf people.”
The sign language boards have been installed in children’s play areas at Pudsey Park, Horsforth Hall Park, Bramley Park, Yeadon Tarnfield Park, Stanningley Park, Springhead Park Rothwell, Heritage Village, Blands Avenue Allerton Bywater, Cross Flatts Park, and East End Park.
Councillor Helen Hayden, Leeds City Council’s executive member for children and families, and Councillor Mohammed Rafique, executive member for climate, energy, environment and green space, said: “The new signs are a great improvement to the playgrounds, encouraging interaction between all children, deaf and hearing. Learning basic BSL is useful to any person and we’re hoping that this will reach many local families and help them learn a new language.
“We work hard to be a child friendly city and it is important that all children feel represented and included in spaces designed for them.”
Angela Calder, of the National Deaf Children’s Society’s Community Grants programme, said: “This was a great idea from Leeds Deaf Children’s Society. We hope the new signs get people talking about British Sign Language and even using a few basic signs. It’s a really powerful way of helping deaf children feel more included.
“Our Community Grants programme is all about initiatives like this – enabling groups and communities all around the UK to make a real, tangible difference on the ground, helping deaf children and young people feel part of their communities.”
ENDS
This community grant was awarded as part of a pilot run by the National Deaf Children’s Society. For more information, please visit: www.ndcs.org.uk/community-grants
Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
The jury of the All-Russian competition “The Far East – Land of Adventures” accepts films about travels along regional routes to places of military glory in the subjects located within the Far Eastern Federal District and the Arctic zone. A special nomination “Paths of Victory” has been created for this purpose.
“This year, our country celebrates the 80th anniversary of the Great Victory. We must pass on the memory of the feat of our fathers and grandfathers who defended the Motherland and defeated fascism from generation to generation. The Far East and the Arctic made a significant contribution to the Victory, providing the country with resources and protecting transport routes. The Northern Sea Route became a vital artery for the delivery of goods and supplies to the rear. World War II ended in the Far East. Far Easterners and northerners, some at the front, some in the rear, brought the Victory closer as best they could. And now it is important to educate young people, to remind them of the price and efforts that went into the freedom of our country,” said Deputy Prime Minister and Presidential Plenipotentiary Representative in the Far Eastern Federal District Yuri Trutnev.
The special nomination “Paths of Victory” is aimed at reviving military-historical tourism, preserving the memory of the country’s heroes through the creation of amateur videos about hikes to places of military glory in the Far East and the Arctic zone. Video reports and expeditions to places of military glory and feat of Soviet soldiers; places of battles, places of fortifications preserved since the Great Patriotic War; films about little-studied memorial places associated with the military glory of Russia, including films with the participation of searchers and reenactors are accepted for consideration in the nomination. Only films about hikes and expeditions filmed outside the city limits are accepted for the competition.
To take part, you need to make a short film up to 8 minutes long about your trip to the Far East or the Arctic and send it to the jury for evaluation via the website puteshestvendv.rf by January 15, 2026. The trip must have taken place no earlier than May 1, 2023 and no later than January 15, 2026. Video materials shot with both a professional camera and mobile devices are allowed to participate – the quality of the shooting is not a decisive criterion.
For winning the nomination “Paths of Victory” you can get 500 thousand rubles, for second place in this nomination – 300 thousand rubles, and for third place – 200 thousand rubles. Also, by decision of the jury, individual films can be rewarded with cash prizes.
Participants who submit a film for the “Paths of Victory” nomination can also compete for victory in the main nominations of the “Far East – Land of Adventure” competition.
Let us recall that the All-Russian competition “The Far East – Land of Adventures” is held with the support of the Office of the Plenipotentiary Representative of the President in the Far Eastern Federal District, the Ministry for the Development of the Russian Far East, JSC “Corporation for the Development of the Far East and Arctic” and the NGO “Fund for the Development of Social Initiatives”.
Since the start of the 3rd season of the All-Russian competition “The Far East – Land of Adventures”, 95 films have been submitted to the jury.
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.
Washington, DC: The Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) concluded the Article IV Consultation with Nigeria.1
The Nigerian authorities have implemented major reforms over the past two years which have improved macroeconomic stability and enhanced resilience. The authorities have removed costly fuel subsidies, stopped monetary financing of the fiscal deficit and improved the functioning of the foreign exchange market. Investor confidence has strengthened, helping Nigeria successfully tap the Eurobond market and leading to a resumption of portfolio inflows. At the same time, poverty and food insecurity have risen, and the government is now focused on raising growth.
Growth accelerated to 3.4 percent in 2024, driven mainly by increased hydrocarbon output and vibrant services sector. Agriculture remained subdued, owing to security challenges and sliding productivity. Real GDP is expected to expand by 3.4 percent in 2025, supported by the new domestic refinery, higher oil production and robust services. Against a complex and uncertain external environment, medium-term growth is projected to hover around 3½ percent, supported by domestic reform gains.
Gross and net international reserves increased in 2024, with a strong current account surplus and improved portfolio inflows. Reforms to the fx market and foreign exchange interventions have brought stability to the naira.
Naira stabilization and improvements in food production brought inflation to 23.7 percent year-on-year in April 2025 from 31 percent annual average in 2024 in the backcasted rebased CPI index released by the Nigerian Bureau of Statistics. Inflation should decline further in the medium-term with continued tight macroeconomic policies and a projected easing of retail fuel prices.
Fiscal performance improved in 2024. Revenues benefited from naira depreciation, enhanced revenue administration and higher grants, which more-than-offset rising interest and overheads spending.
Downside risks have increased with heightened global uncertainty. A further decline in oil prices or increase in financing costs would adversely affect growth, fiscal and external positions, undermine financial stability and exacerbate exchange rate pressures. A deterioration of security could impact growth and food insecurity.
Executive Directors agreed with the thrust of the staff appraisal. They commended the authorities on the successful implementation of significant reforms during the past two years and welcomed the associated gains in macroeconomic stability and resilience. As these gains have yet to benefit all Nigerians, and with heightened economic uncertainty and significant downside risks, Directors emphasized the importance of agile policy making to safeguard and enhance macroeconomic stability, creating enabling conditions to boost growth, and reducing poverty.
Directors agreed that the Central Bank of Nigeria is appropriately maintaining a tight monetary policy stance, which should continue until disinflation becomes entrenched. They welcomed the discontinuation of deficit monetization and ongoing efforts to strengthen central bank governance to set the institutional foundation for inflation targeting. Directors also welcomed steps taken by the authorities to build reserves and support market confidence and praised reforms to the foreign exchange market that supported price discovery and liquidity. They called for implementation of a robust foreign exchange intervention framework focused on containing excess volatility, stressing that the exchange rate is an important shock absorber. Directors also agreed with staff’s call to phase out existing capital flow management measures in a properly timed and sequenced manner.
Directors called for a neutral fiscal stance to safeguard macroeconomic stabilization with priority given to investments that enhance growth. Directors also called for accelerating the delivery of cash transfers to assist the poor. They commended the authorities on advancing the tax reform bill, an important step towards enhancing revenue mobilization and creating fiscal space for development spending, while preserving debt sustainability.
Directors recognized actions to strengthen the banking system, including the ongoing process of increasing banks’ minimum capital. They welcomed the authorities’ efforts to boost financial inclusion and promote capital market development, while emphasizing the importance of moving to a robust risk‑based supervision for mortgage and consumer lending schemes as well as the fintech and crypto sectors. Directors welcomed progress made in strengthening the AML/CFT framework and stressed the importance of resolving remaining weaknesses to exit the FATF grey list.
To lift Nigeria’s growth outlook, improve food security, and reduce fragility, Directors highlighted the importance of tackling security, red tape, agricultural productivity, infrastructure gaps, including boosting electricity supply, as well as improved health and education spending, and making the economy more resilient to climate events. They noted that addressing structural impediments to private credit extension is also needed to support growth. Directors welcomed the IMF’s capacity development to support authorities’ reform efforts and agreed that enhancing data quality is critical for sound, data‑driven policymaking.
Table 1. Nigeria: Selected Economic and Financial Indicators, 2023–26
2023
2024
2025
2026
5/8/2025 13:03
Act.
Est.
Proj.
Proj.
National income and prices
Annual percentage change
(unless otherwise specified)
Real GDP (at 2010 market prices)
2.9
3.4
3.4
3.2
Oil GDP
-2.2
5.5
4.9
2.3
Non-oil GDP
3.2
3.3
3.3
3.3
Non-oil non-agriculture GDP
3.9
4.1
3.7
3.7
Production of crude oil (million barrels per day)
1.5
1.5
1.7
1.7
Nominal GDP at market prices (trillions of naira)
234
277
320
367
Nominal non-oil GDP (trillions of naira)
221
260
303
351
Nominal GDP per capita (US$)
1,597
806
836
887
GDP deflator
12.6
14.5
11.4
11.4
Consumer price index (annual average)
24.7
31.4
24.0
23.0
Consumer price index (end of period)
28.9
15.4
23.0
18.0
Investment and savings
Percent of GDP
Gross national savings
31.8
39.6
37.5
37.7
Public
-0.1
3.9
2.2
1.7
Private
31.9
35.7
35.3
36.1
Investment
30.0
30.4
30.5
33.1
Public
3.2
4.8
5.4
5.5
Private
26.8
25.6
25.1
27.6
Consolidated government operations
Percent of GDP
Total revenues and grants
9.8
14.4
14.2
13.8
Of which: oil and gas revenue
3.3
4.1
5.1
4.9
Of which: non-oil revenue
5.8
9.2
8.8
8.8
Total expenditure and net lending
13.9
17.1
18.9
18.7
Overall balance
-4.2
-2.6
-4.7
-4.9
Non-oil primary balance
-4.9
-4.9
-7.2
-6.9
Public gross debt1
48.7
52.9
52.0
50.8
Of which: FX denominated debt
18.1
25.5
25.8
24.8
FGN interest payments (percent of FGN revenue)
83.8
41.1
47.3
49.2
Money and credit
Contribution to broad money growth (unless otherwise specified)
Broad money (percent change; end of period)
51.9
42.7
17.9
22.3
Net foreign assets
10.5
30.4
2.1
7.2
Net domestic assets
41.3
12.3
15.8
15.1
Of which: Claims on consolidated government
20.1
-11.9
6.2
4.1
Credit to the private sector (y/y, percent)
53.6
30.1
17.9
18.2
Velocity of broad money (ratio; end of period)
2.7
3.3
2.2
2.1
External sector
Annual percentage change
(unless otherwise specified)
Current account balance (percent of GDP)
1.8
9.2
7.0
4.6
Exports of goods and services
-12.8
-4.5
-6.0
1.3
Imports of goods and services
-4.4
-0.8
-6.8
8.4
Terms of trade
-6.1
-0.6
-7.4
-3.3
Price of Nigerian oil (US$ per barrel)
82.3
79.9
67.7
63.3
External debt outstanding (US$ billions)2
102.9
102.2
105.9
110.2
Gross international reserves (US$ billions, CBN definition)3
33.2
40.2
36.4
39.1
Equivalent months of prospective imports of G&S
5.4
5.7
7.5
7.7
Memorandum items:
Implicit fuel subsidy (percent of GDP)
0.8
2.1
0.0
0.0
Sources: Nigerian authorities; and IMF staff estimates and projections.
1 Gross debt figures for the Federal Government and the public sector include overdrafts from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).
2 Includes both public and private sector.
3 Based on the IMF definition, the gross international reserves were US$8 billion
lower in December 2024.
1 Under Article IV of the IMF’s Articles of Agreement, the IMF holds bilateral discussions with members, usually every year. Staff hold separate annual discussions with the regional institutions responsible for common policies in four currency unions—the Euro Area, the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union, the Central African Economic and Monetary Union, and the West African Economic and Monetary Union. For each of the currency unions, staff teams visit the regional institutions responsible for common policies in the currency union, collects economic and financial information, and discusses with officials the currency union’s economic developments and policies. On return to headquarters, the staff prepares a report, which forms the basis of discussion by the Executive Board. Both staff’s discussions with the regional institutions and the Board discussion of the annual staff report will be considered an integral part of the Article IV consultation with each member.
2 At the conclusion of the discussion, the Managing Director, as Chairman of the Board, summarizes the views of Executive Directors, and this summary is transmitted to the country’s authorities. An explanation of any qualifiers used in summings up can be found here: http://www.IMF.org/external/np/sec/misc/qualifiers.htm. The Executive Board takes decisions under its lapse-of-time procedure when the Board agrees that a proposal can be considered without convening formal discussions.
The Security Council will discuss the situation in Haiti, which faces a multifaceted crisis amid ongoing gang violence. Members will hear a briefing by Miroslav Jenča, Assistant Secretary-General for Europe, Central Asia and Americas, Departments of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs and Peace Operations, on the activities of a United Nations’ support mission. Ghada Fathy Waly, Executive Director, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, is also expected to brief the 15-member organ..
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jared Huffman Representing the 2nd District of California
June 16, 2025
Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. House Natural Resources Committee Ranking Member Jared Huffman (D-Calif.), U.S. House Energy and Commerce Ranking Member Frank Pallone (D-N.J.), Rep. Kathy Castor (D-Fla.), Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.), and Senator Jack Reed (D-R.I.) along with 40 Democratic Colleagues in the House and Senate submitted formal comments to the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM), opposing any new or expanded offshore oil and gas leasing in the Trump administration’s proposed updates to the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) oil and gas leasing program.
In their letter to Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, the lawmakers warned that more offshore drilling would threaten our national security, coastal communities, marine life, and local economies – all while handing more giveaways to an industry already sitting on millions of acres of unused leases. They urged the agency to exclude any new leasing in the final program.
“New or expanded oil and gas leasing poses risks to the health and livelihoods of our constituents, jeopardizes our tourism, fishing, and recreational economies, and threatens the marine life that inhabits our coastlines” the members wrote. “New, unnecessary lease sales will lock in decades more of pollution and climate impacts from an industry that already holds more than 2,000 offshore leases covering more than 12 million acres of federal water, of which only 469 leases are currently producing oil and gas. The United States is already the number one producer of oil and gas in the world. There is no need for increased leasing, especially when oil and gas companies continue to impose environmental and climate consequences, public health risks, and billions of dollars in cleanup costs on the American people.”
Members also reminded the Secretary of the long-standing legal restrictions that prevent the administration from offering lease sales in protected areas.
“We remind the agency that it cannot offer sales in areas permanently protected under Section 12(a) of OCSLA, including areas off the Atlantic coast, the Pacific off the coast of California, Oregon, and Washington, the Eastern Gulf of Mexico, and portions of the Artic Ocean, including the Beaufort Sea and Chukchi Sea planning areas. In 2017, during his first term, President Trump attempted to reverse President Obama’s Arctic and Atlantic withdrawals, but Judge Sharon Gleason for the District Court of Alaska determined that Section 12(a) does not give the president authority to revoke prior withdrawals. President Trump does not have the authority to reverse the Obama and Biden withdrawals, and his Executive Order of January 2025, which attempts to do so, is unlawful.”
During his first term, the Trump administration proposed 47 lease sales over five years, covering nearly every U.S. coastline. Fortunately, this program was never finalized due to litigation and strong bipartisan opposition. But now, with the Biden administration’s leasing plan under review and Secretary Burgum signaling that protections may be on the chopping block, lawmakers are raising the alarm once again.
At a budget hearing last week, Secretary Burgum refused to commit to protecting Florida’s Gulf Coast from new oil and gas leasing, saying only that “the administration may be considering opportunities.” This region has long been protected by both bipartisan legislation and administrative withdrawals – protections that are now under threat.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jared Huffman Representing the 2nd District of California
July 01, 2025
Washington, D.C. – Today, Natural Resources Committee Ranking Member Jared Huffman (D-Calif.) released the following statement after the Senate passed President Trump’s Big, Ugly Bill:
“The Senate just jammed through a scorched-earth reconciliation bill so toxic that it is worse than the House version if you can believe it. It takes away healthcare from millions of Americans, rips food assistance from kids and seniors, and guts the very safeguards that protect our clean air and water — all to reward the same fossil fuel CEOs Trump asked for a billion-dollar campaign check. It props up the dirty energy of the past, suffocates clean energy, and sticks American families with higher costs, dirtier air and water, and growing floods, fires, and climate disasters.
“Republicans tried to push through the biggest public lands sell-off in modern history — and got rejected so badly they had to yank it. But make no mistake: this bill still guts protections, opens millions of acres to drilling, mining and logging, and rewrites the rules into a pay-to-play scheme for Trump’s billionaire donors. And this just adds to what the Trump administration is already doing to sell out our public lands to polluters and developers.
“This isn’t a beautiful bill; it’s a Big Betrayal. It slashes hundreds of thousands of good-paying jobs. It kneecaps investments that are finally flowing to rural towns, Tribal Nations, and working-class communities. And it would drive up costs across the board — electricity, healthcare, food — forcing families to pay more just so fossil fuel CEOs and already wealthy corporations can rake in record profits. No wonder nearly two-thirds of Americans oppose it.
“Now it heads back to the House, where Republicans better be ready to explain why they’re ripping up healthcare and food assistance, selling out public lands, gutting clean air and water safeguards, and driving up energy bills, all so billionaires and Big Oil CEOs can get richer.”
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
First specialized container terminal of Dongying Port put into use in China’s Shandong
Updated: July 2, 2025 21:31Xinhua
A drone photo shows a container ship berthing at the container terminal of a dike in Dongying Port, east China’s Shandong Province, July 2, 2025. The first specialized container terminal of Dongying Port was put into use on Wednesday. [Photo/Xinhua]A drone photo shows a container ship berthing at the container terminal of a dike in Dongying Port, east China’s Shandong Province, July 2, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]A drone photo shows a container ship berthing at the container terminal of a dike in Dongying Port, east China’s Shandong Province, July 2, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe shared the following updates on the State of Missouri’s support for communities recovering from the severe weather and flooding that has affected much of the state in 2025.
“Our state team members have done an outstanding job this year, working shoulder to shoulder with local counterparts to aid Missouri families and businesses recovering from an unprecedented string of damaging storms,” Governor Kehoe said. “These efforts—along with the work of our faith-based and volunteer disaster response partners, and the federal disaster support approved by President Trump—are making a tremendous difference as we move forward together as a state.”
On Monday, Governor Kehoe signed Executive Order 25-27 extending a State of Emergency in Missouri through August 31, 2025. The extension will help further assist with disaster recovery efforts, as additional flooding and severe storms occurred in Southwest Missouri over this past weekend. Governor Kehoe first declared a State of Emergency on March 14, 2025, through Executive Order 25-19 in preparation for severe weather. The State of Emergency declaration in Executive Order 25-19 was subsequently extended by Executive Order 25-22, Executive Order 25-23, and now Executive Order 25-27.
Some recent highlights on the state’s response include:
More than $22 million in Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) assistance has been provided to over 4,600 families in the City of St. Louis, St. Louis, and Scott counties. This funding follows President Trump’s June 9 approval of a federal Major Disaster Declaration for the May 16 tornado and severe storms that devastated parts of Missouri.
During the activation of the Missouri National Guard to the City of St. Louis, guard members supported debris management collection at four drop-off sites and hauled hundreds of dump truck loads to the landfill. This support enabled the city and its residents to remove the equivalent of well over 200 football fields piled one foot high with debris.
On June 14, Governor Kehoe signed Senate Bill 1 into law after the special session, allocating $100 million to the Department of Public Safety (DPS) for disaster relief to help the City of St. Louis recover from the May 16 tornado that damaged or destroyed thousands of homes.
More than $3.8 million in FEMA/SEMA assistance has been provided to over 750 households impacted by the March 14-15 storms and wildfires in Bollinger, Butler, Camden, Carter, Franklin, Howell, Iron, Jefferson, Oregon, Ozark, Perry, Phelps, Reynolds, Ripley, St. Louis, Wayne, Webster, and Wright counties. President Trump approved Governor Kehoe’s federal Major Disaster Request for this disaster on May 21.
Currently eight Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC) are open for residents impacted by the May 16 or March 14-15 severe storms to help with disaster assistance applications, answer questions, and upload required documents. Search Missouri locations at fema.gov/DRC. The fastest way to apply is at DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. If residents were impacted March 14-15, the deadline to apply for FEMA Individual Assistance is July 22. For those impacted on May 16, the deadline is August 11.
overnor Kathy Hochul today announced the return of Long Island Rail Road and Metro-North Railroad “Summer Saturday” discount programs that enable monthly ticket holders to travel anywhere the railroads go and bring friends or family for just $1 each.
“This is all about putting more money in New Yorkers’ pockets,” Governor Hochul said. “Whether it’s Long Island Beaches, Broadway shows and baseball games in the city, or hiking in the Hudson Valley, taking the train is the best way to get around. And by allowing monthly pass holders to bring friends and family along for just a dollar, we’re making it easier and more affordable for New Yorkers to ride the rails this summer.”
The Summer Saturday discount program returns as customers of the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) and Metro-North Railroad are enjoying sky high on-time performance.
On Saturdays from July 5 through Aug. 30, both railroads will honor all monthly tickets for travel to and from all stations within the LIRR or Metro-North Railroad regardless of what stations are printed on the ticket. Monthly ticket holders traveling Saturdays will also be able to bring up to two additional travelers for only $1 per person each way. Promotional $1 tickets can be purchased via the TrainTime app under Family Fares or on board without incurring an extra charge.
MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber said, “If the best service in LIRR and Metro-North history wasn’t enough incentive to ride, these discounts should seal the deal. We’ve made it a priority to get creative on fares and give customers the best bang for their buck — no matter where they want to go, from Montauk to Manitou.”
Long Island Rail Road President Robert Free said, “Summer is time for outdoor fun with family and friends and the LIRR is ready to take you to everything that Long Island has to offer this summer at a great price. Summer Saturdays are an inexpensive way to access the fastest and most convenient way to travel between the City and Long Island. Skip the traffic and ride the rails to your favorite Long Island destinations.”
Metro-North Railroad President Justin Vonashek said, “Metro-North is the best way to enjoy everything that the Hudson Valley has to offer and summer Saturdays are an affordable option for everyone to travel through the Hudson Valley and Connecticut. Bring the whole family on your next Metro-North trip this summer to see and do everything the region has to offer!”
There will be no cross-honoring of these discounted tickets between the railroads, meaning LIRR customers cannot use their monthly tickets to travel on Metro-North, and vice versa. Three Montauk Branch LIRR trains and one Ronkonkoma train and its Greenport connection are exempt from the program: the 7:13 a.m., 8:14 a.m. and 10:29 a.m. trains from Jamaica to Montauk, the 7:47 a.m. train from Penn Station to Ronkonkoma and its connection, the 9:14 a.m. train from Ronkonkoma to Greenport.
head of Fourth of July weekend and in preparation for beach and swimming season, Governor Kathy Hochul today updated New Yorkers on measures to watch out for sharks and other potentially dangerous marine life at Long Island State Parks this summer. The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, in collaboration with the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), expanded and updated surveillance capability, including new drones and drone operators, at Long Island State Park beaches.
“Our Long Island State Park beaches are cherished by New Yorkers and visitors alike — perfect places to get offline, get outside and enjoy the outdoors.” Governor Hochul said. “We are continuing to strengthen our shark surveillance capabilities and safety tactics at these beaches to help protect these treasured summertime traditions. I encourage all beachgoers to stay safe, stay alert and always follow the direction of lifeguards and park staff.”
New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (State Parks) lifeguards continuously scan and patrol the waters from shore and by surfboat and personal watercraft for any dangerous marine life, such as sharks. Park Police and Park staff actively patrol the beachfront as well, using drones to search the water for dangerous marine life or large schools of fish that may attract them. State Parks’ expanded surveillance capabilities this summer include:
Added 6 drones to its 22 currently in operation for a total of 28 drones;
Trained 8 new drone pilots for a total of 48 drone operators among operations staff, lifeguards and Park Police; and
Assigned one large enterprise drone to Park Police with thermal imaging, laser range finding, and high-quality cameras to allow for night-time surveillance and patrols in adverse weather conditions. This drone can also drop personal flotation devices in emergencies.
When there are shark sightings and/or interactions in State Parks beaches, swimming is suspended, and all swimmers are cleared from the water. State Parks works with the DEC to confirm potential shark sightings. Swimming is allowed to resume at least one hour after the last confirmed sighting. State Park lifeguards, Park Police and park staff stay on high alert and patrol the waters for dangerous marine life. In addition, the Long Island Coastal Awareness Group, composed of more than 200 individuals from municipalities, agencies, and private beach operators stretching from Queens through Long Island, is notified so they may take appropriate action in their respective jurisdictions.
New York State Parks Commissioner Pro Tem Randy Simons said, “Our staff is well prepared to safeguard beachgoers this summer season, and we’re excited to adopt the latest technology to be even more effective. I’m grateful to Governor Hochul and the Department of Environmental Conservation for their continued support and partnership in keeping these beaches as safe as possible. I encourage beachgoers to follow guidance and directions from parks staff and be shark smart while enjoying their summer fun.”
Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Amanda Lefton said, “Visits to Long Island’s ocean beaches are a treasured part of summer plans for New Yorkers and out-of-state visitors alike. Being aware of rip currents, following the State’s shark safety guidance, and keeping in mind that our coastal areas are part of a wild and natural marine ecosystem will help swimmers avoid danger while enjoying some fun in the sun. Thanks to Governor Hochul, DEC and our partners at State Parks have the necessary tools to keep an eye on the water and help ensure all beachgoers recreate safely.”
New Yorkers are encouraged to follow shark safety guidance:
Avoid areas with schools of fish, splashing fish, or diving seabirds;
Avoid swimming at dusk, night, and dawn;
Avoid murky water;
Swim, paddle and surf in groups;
Stay close to shore, where your feet can touch the bottom; and
Always follow the instructions of lifeguards and Parks’ staff.
Humans assume risk whenever they enter any wild environment, whether on land or in the water. Although it is impossible to eliminate risk altogether, ocean users can modify their behavior to minimize potential interactions with sharks and reduce overall risk. When in the ocean, follow DEC’s shark safety guidelines to minimize the potential for negative interactions with sharks.
New Technology Helps Improve Awareness of Rip Currents In the Long Island Region of New York, State Parks purchased two virtual reality headsets to improve public awareness and understanding of the dangers of rip currents. Members of the public can use these headsets at water safety outreach events at New York State Parks’ beaches, May 31-September 6, 2025. The technology is bilingual, with instruction available in both English and Spanish. The headsets employ technology developed by Hofstra University Professor Jase Bernhardt and developer Frank Martin, funded by New York Sea Grant.
Rip currents are powerful, narrow channels of fast-moving water that are prevalent along coastlines. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), lifeguards rescue tens of thousands of people from rip currents in the U.S. every year, but it is estimated that 100 people are killed by rip currents annually.
Rip currents usually form near a shallow point in the water, and can happen at any beach with breaking waves, including the beaches on the Great Lakes. If you are caught in a rip current, remain calm and don’t fight it. Swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the current, and float or tread water if you begin to tire. Learn more about rip currents.
The Long Island Region Water Safety Education Program initiative started at Robert Moses Field 5 last year. For summer 2025, programming has been expanded to other parks in the region, including:
July 12, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Sunken Meadow State Park: Field 1 Boardwalk
July 25 , 4-8 p.m., Robert Moses State Park: Field 5
August 9, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Heckscher State Park
August 16, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Wildwood State Park: Beachfront
August 23, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Sunken Meadow State Park: Field 1 Boardwalk
September 6, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Captree State Park: Dockside Festival
The Commission has proposed an amendment to the EU’s Climate Law that would see a 2040 EU climate target of a 90% reduction in net greenhouse gas emissions, compared to 1990 levels. The proposal also sets out a more pragmatic and flexible way to reach the 2040 target.