NewzIntel.com

Category: DJF

  • MIL-OSI Africa: IAEA Director General Meets with GCC Ambassadors

    Source: Government of Qatar

    Vienna, June 21, 2025

    HE Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Grossi met today with Their Excellencies ambassadors of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries accredited to the IAEA.

    During the meeting, the GCC ambassadors conveyed the GCC members’ concerns over the current situation and their special interest in the safety of nuclear facilities, especially those geographically close to GCC countries. They emphasized the need to ensure the highest levels of preparedness and preventive measures.

    The GCC ambassadors emphasized the pivotal role played by the IAEA in enhancing preventive security at the regional and international levels and following up on the technical and operational obligations of countries under the comprehensive safeguards system.

    They warned of the serious consequences of targeting nuclear facilities, both human and environmental, as this poses a direct threat to radiological safety and the international nuclear safeguards system, as well as a clear violation of international law and international humanitarian law.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Statement on vehicle collision with flat in St Aldate’s, Oxford

    Source: City of Oxford

    Saturday, 21 June 2025

    At about 4am this morning (21 June), a vehicle struck a ground-floor flat in St Aldate’s, Oxford.

    We evacuated three of our tenants from the building and have arranged alternative accommodation for them over the weekend.

    A structural engineer visited the site this morning and has confirmed that the building is safe. Further investigations will take place on Monday (23 June) to determine what repair work is needed before our tenants can return to their homes.

    We’d like to thank our colleagues at ODS for their swift response in securing the building, and the manager of The Head of the River pub for kindly offering a place for our tenants to rest while we arranged alternative accommodation.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Deputy Minister Kenny Morolong attends the Funeral Service of the Late Sibusiso Aserie Ndlovu

    Source: Republic of South Africa (video statements)

    Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Mr Kenny Morolong attends the Funeral Service of the Late Sibusiso Aserie Ndlovu

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

    MIL OSI Video –

  • PM Modi leads historic Yoga Day gathering in Visakhapatnam with over 3 lakh participation

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday led the nation in celebrating the 11th International Day of Yoga at a spectacular gathering along the picturesque coast of Visakhapatnam. Marking a historic milestone, the event witnessed the participation of over three lakh citizens, earning recognition in the Guinness Book of World Records as the world’s largest-ever yoga gathering.
     
    In his address, the Prime Minister extended greetings to people across the country and the world on this global occasion. Reflecting on the journey since the inception of International Yoga Day in 2015, he recalled India’s proposal at the United Nations that received support from 175 countries. He said this support reflected a rare global consensus for the welfare of humanity. “Eleven years on, yoga has become an integral part of the lifestyle of millions across the globe,” he said.
     
    The Prime Minister said that yoga has the power to transcend boundaries, backgrounds, age, or ability. He noted how it is now practiced from the steps of the Sydney Opera House to the summit of Mount Everest, and even in space by scientists. He also mentioned how Divyang individuals are reading yogic texts in Braille, and students from rural areas are taking part in Yoga Olympiads, reaffirming that yoga truly belongs to everyone.
     
    Speaking on the occasion, Prime Minister Modi lauded the city of Visakhapatnam for hosting the grand celebrations and praised its vibrant blend of natural beauty and progress. He appreciated the efforts of Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and actor-politician Pawan Kalyan for their leadership in organising the event and launching the state-wide Yogandhra Abhiyan.
     
    He gave special recognition to Nara Lokesh for his dedication in turning yoga into a social celebration that engaged communities across all sections of society. The Prime Minister said that the participation of over two crore people in the Yogandhra campaign reflects the spirit of Jan Bhagidari, which is the bedrock of a Viksit Bharat. He said that when citizens take ownership of national movements, even the most ambitious goals become achievable.
     
    Union Minister Prataprao Jadhav, in his address, credited the Prime Minister for initiating the historic resolution at the UN General Assembly, which laid the foundation for a global wellness movement celebrated in more than 180 countries today. He announced the launch of 10 signature events this year as part of the International Day of Yoga celebrations, including Harit Yoga, Yoga Connect, Yoga Parks, Yoga Bandhan, Yoga Mahakumbh, and Yoga Sangam. These events have seen participation from over 10 lakh organisations across India.
     
    Jadhav also praised the Andhra Pradesh government for the successful launch of the Yogandhra Abhiyan on May 21. He noted that as part of the campaign, over 22,000 tribal students performed 12 rounds of Surya Namaskar in just 15 minutes, setting another Guinness World Record.
     
    He further informed that the Ministry of Ayush, inspired by the Prime Minister, has launched an initiative to promote healthy eating habits. As part of this effort, Ayush Aahar based on moringa was distributed at 70 locations across Delhi during Yoga Day celebrations, offering a healthy and tasty alternative to the public.
     
    Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, while expressing gratitude to the Prime Minister for selecting Andhra Pradesh to host the main event, said that the state celebrated Yoga Day with unprecedented enthusiasm. He noted that the month-long Yogandhra campaign concluded with participation from 2.17 crore people across the state, setting several records in the process.
     
    Joining the nationwide celebration, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh participated in the Yoga Day event in Udhampur. He said that yoga, a tradition passed down by India’s sages, is now being followed globally and is more than a practice—it is a way of life.
     
    Union Home Minister Amit Shah took part in the celebrations in Ahmedabad and shared on social media that yoga has become an essential daily habit, bringing unity to the mind, body, and brain.
     
    Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare and Chemicals & Fertilizers, Jagat Prakash Nadda, participated in the celebrations at Kartavya Path in New Delhi. He said that yoga nurtures balance across physical, mental, and spiritual dimensions and praised the Prime Minister’s leadership for bringing global attention to yoga. He encouraged all citizens to continue practicing and promoting yoga as an essential part of a healthy lifestyle.
     
    More than 100 events were organised across the national capital to mark the 11th International Day of Yoga, further reflecting the nationwide enthusiasm and deep cultural connection to the ancient practice.

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China is ready to cooperate with Russia to strengthen political mutual trust and expand areas of common interest – Vice Premier of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    St. Petersburg, June 21 (Xinhua) — Member of the Standing Committee of the Politburo of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and Vice Premier of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) Ding Xuexiang said on Friday that China is ready to cooperate with Russia to continuously strengthen political mutual trust and expand areas of common interest.

    A senior Chinese official made the statement at a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

    He recalled that in May, Chinese President Xi Jinping visited Russia at the invitation and took part in the celebrations of the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s victory in the Great Patriotic War. According to him, Xi Jinping held in-depth strategic communication with V. Putin and developed new high-level projects for the development of Chinese-Russian relations at the next stage.

    Ding Xuexiang noted that the leadership and strategic guidance of Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin provide a reliable guarantee for deepening China-Russia cooperation and maintaining friendship for many generations, and also serve as confidence for the two countries to jointly overcome various uncertainties on the way forward.

    China is ready to cooperate with Russia to further expand trade and investment, deepen practical cooperation in the energy sector, promote relevant projects and mutually support development and national revival, the Vice Premier added.

    Against the backdrop of profound changes in the international situation, China and Russia should maintain comprehensive strategic coordination, uphold international fairness, support the multilateral trading system with the WTO at its core, jointly safeguard supply chain stability, and deepen multilateral cooperation through mechanisms such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and BRICS, so as to promote the building of an equitable and orderly multipolar world as well as win-win and inclusive economic globalization.

    In turn, V. Putin noted that despite external difficulties and challenges, Russian-Chinese relations have received comprehensive development and reached an unprecedented high level.

    He expressed Russia’s readiness to further strengthen practical cooperation with China and work together to create a better future for both countries and the entire world.

    In conclusion, the Russian President stressed that he was looking forward to visiting China to participate in the SCO summit in Tianjin and the commemorative events dedicated to the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Hainan Free Trade Port to Play Key Role in China’s Opening-Up Policy

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    HAIKOU, June 21 (Xinhua) — Canadian tourist Stephanie Wing Xi Yao found the wellness treatments at a medical center in Boao Township, south China’s Hainan Province, more like a “resort.”

    “Everything here is top-notch, the staff pays attention to all aspects of health – not only physical but also mental,” she told Xinhua at the Lecheng International Medical Tourism Pilot Zone in Boao, which is home to more than 30 leading domestic and foreign medical institutions.

    Through special policy measures, 485 advanced drugs and medical equipment licensed abroad but not yet available domestically were brought into the pilot zone, benefiting more than 130,000 patients, including Yao.

    Her four-day experience at the medical centre, which combined cutting-edge medical examinations, traditional Chinese medicine treatments, tea ceremonies and cultural immersion, was much more than just a chance to relax. It demonstrates the concrete outcome of a key step in China’s opening-up strategy: turning Hainan into a free trade port (FTP).

    As Hainan FCT prepares to launch a separate customs control regime by the end of the year, it plans to become not only a tourist mecca but also an important gateway for China’s high-level opening-up.

    PLACE OF FREE MOVEMENT OF FACTORS

    The central component of this transformation is the Lecheng Medical Tourism Pilot Zone. A total of 25 medical tourism routes have been launched, covering a wide range of needs, including traditional Chinese medicine, chronic disease treatment, premium diagnostics, and beauty rehabilitation, which have gained popularity among residents of Indonesia, Russia, Spain, and other countries.

    In 2024, the medical special zone was visited more than 410,000 times, which is 36.76 percent more than the previous year.

    Lecheng is just one part of Hainan’s broader efforts to open up. Beyond the medical sector, the province is accelerating foreign companies’ access to finance, education, communications and high-tech industries as China seeks to create a free trade zone with the highest global trading standards.

    Backed by China’s huge domestic market and its strategic positioning, Hainan is an important hub linking the world’s second-largest economy to global markets.

    The Hainan PCT is poised to become “a key gateway leading China into a new era of opening up,” said Chi Fulin, head of the China Institute of Reform and Development Studies.

    With the approach of the launch of the separate customs control regime, the political system of the PST was formed, based on such features as zero tariffs, low tax rates, a simplified tax system and facilitated movement of production factors.

    For companies based in Lecheng, the zero-tariff policy on medical imports has saved nearly 8.2 million yuan (about $1.14 million) in duties since December 2024.

    The launch of separate customs control will be a concrete step towards creating an important gateway for China’s high-level opening up, Chi Fulin noted.

    INSTITUTIONAL OPENNESS ATTRACTS FOREIGN CAPITAL

    Since the Hainan FCT has prioritized institutional integration and coordination in trade, financial and regulatory systems, experts believe that this will create a strong driving force for the development of the FCT and contribute to China’s high-level opening-up expansion strategy.

    Official data show that Hainan Province has implemented a total of 158 institutional innovations to date. These reforms include technology-enhanced government tenders, a one-stop shop for business licenses, and the establishment of a dedicated IP zone to support the breeding industry.

    The Hainan Free Trade Zone serves not only as a testing ground for the free movement of goods, services and data, but also as a front for innovation in regulation and mechanisms, said Zhou Xiaochuan, vice chairman of the Boao Forum for Asia (BOA).

    With an optimized business environment, Hainan has become a leading destination for foreign investment, ranking among the best in the country in terms of its performance. In 2024, the number of foreign-invested enterprises in Hainan increased by 19.2 percent year-on-year, and the volume of foreign direct investment attracted allowed the region to rise to 10th place in the country.

    To date, Hainan has attracted investment from 158 countries and regions, and its economic openness ratio – the ratio of total foreign trade to GRP – has more than doubled from 17.3 percent in 2018 to 35 percent in 2024.

    The province’s landmark events such as BAF, a leading platform advocating for openness and multilateral cooperation, and the China International Consumer Goods Expo, the largest consumer expo in the Asia-Pacific region, offer dynamic opportunities for global investors to observe China’s evolving opening-up agenda.

    LVMH’s luxury retail arm DFS made its largest single investment in 60 years in 2024, opening a landmark complex in Yalong Bay in Sanya, Hainan’s famous tropical resort city. The project will combine luxury retail, hotels and entertainment to create a premier luxury shopping and tourism destination.

    “The Hainan FTA represents China’s commitment to high-standard opening-up,” said DFS China President Nancy Liu.

    China’s special economic zones, such as the Hainan Free Trade Zone and the 21 pilot free trade zones, serve as key drivers of industrial transformation and opening-up, Chi Fulin stressed, noting their role as “growth accelerators for both regional and global economies.”

    Once the separate customs control is put into effect, the Hainan FCP will create key opportunities for international enterprises to more effectively access China’s domestic market and play a greater role in strengthening market connectivity with global markets through regulatory harmonization focused on trade in services, he added. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Hochul Appears on Dan Mannarino Show

    Source: US State of New York

    arlier today, Governor Kathy Hochul was a guest on PIX 11’s “PIX on Politics Daily with Dan Mannarino.”

    AUDIO: The Governor’s remarks are available in audio form here.

    A rush transcript of the Governor’s remarks is available below:

    Dan Mannarino, PIX 11:  I spoke to Governor Kathy Hochul about that and many other topics in a wide ranging interview. The governor is going on the record. And, Governor Hochul is joining me now, great to have you here in person, Governor.

    Governor Hochul: Thanks. Great to be back, Dan.

    Dan Mannarino, PIX 11: It’s been a busy week and I want to begin what we saw play out on Tuesday, a city comptroller, Brad Lander, a mayoral candidate, arrested, and he was there escorting this man Edgardo out of his court date trying to get this legal status. When you went down there, what was your encounter with both the ICE officials and Mr. Lander?

    Governor Hochul: I went down there, literally had been in Little Haiti, visiting the community, a community that’s under siege. I got the word of what happened and I just declared it as unacceptable in a different word, but I said it was very unacceptable. I went down there, and I went into the federal building, went up to the ninth floor, and they were holding him in this area behind a number of guards. I mean there was ICE agents there, and no one else was around. I just said, “I’m not leaving until Mr. Lander walks out with me.”

    And I stood there, and I talked to people, and I brought in my Homeland Security team and others to be reinforcements and to find out what’s going on. Eventually, they went and told him and he said he overheard them saying “the Governor’s here, we’ll let you go.” So I walked out with him, we went down to the street.

    He was reacquainted with his wife, Meg, who I had seen on the street and gave her a hug because you don’t know what’s happening. Are they going to press some, made up, trumped up charges, literally trumped up charges or what, but they ended up saying yesterday there were no charges being brought. It’s just to see someone like a Brad Lander, I mean, he knows he’s got attention on his case.

    He’s got a Governor coming down there. He’s got all the resources he needs, attorneys, and it just puts a spotlight on all the people who are not an elected official.

    Dan Mannarino, PIX 11: For example, Edgardo.

    Governor Hochul: Yes.

    Dan Mannarino, PIX 11: Where is he?

    Governor Hochul: We don’t know, I mean, we don’t know and here’s what I called out. It’s so cruel. People are sitting ducks. They came here with legal status, temporary protected status seeking asylum. They came here during the Biden administration. You can agree or disagree with that policy, but they’re here and they’re following the rules. They’re showing up to a court date that they’re told to come for, go before a judge, and while they’re in there their status is revoked. They walk out, and they’re told they’re criminals now, and ICE just grabs them.

    Dan Mannarino, PIX 11: So let me ask you this, is there anything that you or the state can do in a moment like this to protect those who are simply following the law? They get a court date, they show up. The city’s guidance from Mayor Adams has been, go to your court cases, go to school, go to hospitals, and if anybody shows up from ICE, ask for a warrant, which is what Mr. Lander did, and now they’re saying that he didn’t see the warrant.

    Governor Hochul: That’s right, that’s exactly right. They’re not even following the rules that are in play here, but we’ve provided legal services and funding, fifty million dollars. I increased it significantly in our budget knowing that this was happening. We have great coalitions, the Immigration Coalition and others that are stepping up and getting the money out to people, training people on what to do–but this is an unprecedented time in American history. It truly, truly is.

    When people who are following the rules, following the laws, taking care of people as home healthcare aides. 160 Haitians losing their jobs because who’s going to take care of the moms and dads and the grandma and grandpas who need this care. So they’re not even looking at the impact of the loss of these people who are workers.

    The loss to our tax base, the loss to our community, and so I will help every day of the week with criminals. I said that during eight hours of grueling hearing testimony in Congress, which was just a farce to even have to drag governors like myself down there, but we did it, we endured it, put up with a lot of crap.

    But we said we do help with law enforcement when we want to remove criminals, people that are dangerous, and this is not what they’re doing. They are removing law abiding people who literally walk on their own into a courthouse.

    Dan Mannarino, PIX 11: Let me ask you about that testimony, right you brought it up, you were there for hours and you were grilled by both Democrats and Republicans. I guess the question is have you spoken to President Trump about what you’re talking about going after the worst of the worst. You were pressed on sanctuary city status, but the President had campaigned on going after the worst of the worst. What have those conversations been?

    Governor Hochul: No, I had them with him before and I was actually going to reach out again, but he has been distracted with the situation in the Middle East, and so I waited, but I will have that conversation again. I had it in the Oval Office. I had Kristi Noem sitting next to me when I had this conversation. I said, “we, as part of our policies, we’ll help you go after the criminals.” The ones not a crime of crossing the border. That’s not what we’re talking about. That can be enforced civilly.

    You do your civil enforcement, that’s not our job. I will help you if you’ve got evidence that someone’s a member of a gang or human trafficking or running drugs or guns. We don’t want them in our streets either. I’ve worked really hard for the last four years to make our streets safer, and we’re seeing the results. So I’m here for that, but why are we being asked to divert our resources to help you do your job, which I don’t even agree with.

    Dan Mannarino, PIX 11: And speaking of resources, we’re seeing what’s going to play out in Los Angeles and California right now with the National Guard being brought in because of these issues of protesters are on the street right, and Mayor Adam said that he sent his deputy mayor and his chief of police, chief of department to meet with President Trump, play golf and persuade him not to send the National Guard here. The Mayor says he spoke to you about that. Were you okay with them meeting on a golf course to talk about this?

    Governor Hochul: That’s how they do their business. I’m not going to question it, that’s not my decision, but I’m having the same conversations. I want them to know, first of all, I’m the commander in chief of the New York State National Guard, I am, and there are only extreme cases when the President can usurp that.

    Those cases were not called for in Los Angeles. What I’m saying is I believe in our law enforcement, I support them. Our NYPD is 32,000 people strong. They’re some of the best trained in the world, they can handle crowds. So you’re basically saying, the Trump administration is saying, “We don’t trust you law enforcement to do your jobs, so we’re going to kind of bigfoot you and show our force.” It’s unnecessary.

    Dan Mannarino, PIX 11: But can you stop it?

    Governor Hochul: I will not be cooperating in that effort. But I will demonstrate that first of all, we can peacefully assemble. That happened, with millions of people, last weekend. Let’s put a spotlight on that and what we don’t want, is to be baited into what Donald Trump wants. He wants nothing more than to see more police cars burning and turned upside down and violence in the streets.

    Now, the concentration in Los Angeles was a smaller area. It was exaggerated. Most of the city was just fine, but he wants that in Chicago and New York. He basically said that. So we are ready for it, but no one should take the bait. Don’t take the bait and give him what he wants.

    Dan Mannarino, PIX 11: This is all playing out during a political season here in New York with the mayor’s race, and they’re all using this as part of their campaigns. Now, we just had a poll come out from Marist that shows Andrew Cuomo is upping the polls here. You served as his Lieutenant Governor and you’d potentially have to work with him as mayor. When’s the last time you spoke to Mr. Cuomo?

    Governor Hochul: A few months. But I’ll tell you this, the voters will decide. I have such respect for the voters of New York City, that I will work with whomever they want me to, and if it’s mutual, if the next mayor. Or the current mayor — whoever it is — wants to work with me and is willing to, they will see the benefits of what I showed Mayor Adams for four years and changing the whole dynamic between the conflict that was always there between Albany and New York City. It doesn’t have to be that way.

    Dan Mannarino, PIX 11: One of them is Zohran Mamdani — who says that he would need to work with Albany — and you — very closely, and his whole campaign is based on raising taxes, which he says that he can get you to be on board with. Would you be on board with that?

    Governor Hochul: No, I’m not raising taxes on people at a time when affordability is the big issue. I’m actually cutting middle class taxes.

    Dan Mannarino, PIX 11: Even on the wealthy?

    Governor Hochul: I don’t want to lose any more people to go to Palm Beach. We’ve lost enough. We had a major out-migration when Republicans in Congress eliminated the state local tax deduction.

    New Yorkers paid $72 billion more to the federal government over the last seven years because Republicans didn’t stand up and they need a full restoration of this. So that was a driver. I don’t want to give anyone else who’s supporting our economy and their taxes are appreciated and their support for the philanthropies, etcetera. Driving them to Florida does not help us. So let’s be smart about this.

    Dan Mannarino, PIX 11: I want to talk about the other race, and that’s the race for governor. Lieutenant Governor, your lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado, has announced he’s running against you. What does that mean? Is he tasked with anything right now by you as he now looks to take your job?

    Governor Hochul: No, he decided to go in a different direction. But I’m not focused on that at all. I really —

    Dan Mannarino, PIX 11: But he’s your Lieutenant Governor, so you don’t give him any responsibilities?

    Governor Hochul: No, he’s determined to take another course. So he’s basically — he collects his paycheck.

    Dan Mannarino, PIX 11: Should he stand down?

    Governor Hochul: A lot of people have said that. I will tell you — I will focus on campaigning when the time comes. I’m very competitive. It’s my 16th election. I know how to win, and I will win. But right now, with so much going on, I have to focus on Washington. I have to focus on this big ugly bill, which is going to eviscerate health care institutions everywhere I’ve been visiting.

    We just did a billion dollars to help SUNY Downstate in Brooklyn, giving central Brooklyn the high quality health care they deserve. And what’s happening at the same time we’re doing this, the federal government stands to take $13.5 billion from our health care systems. I’ve got that fight. I’ve got a fight on tariffs, which are hurting our state tremendously, especially in the North Country and also what’s happening with immigration. So I’m very busy doing my job.

    Dan Mannarino, PIX 11: You’re saying others are calling for him to step down, but you don’t think — you’re not saying it.

    Governor Hochul: I’m not — I don’t really care.

    Dan Mannarino, PIX 11: I want to talk about the big issue right now in terms of the budget, right? Because it is budget season and there’s so much to talk about. But I do want to talk about local issues and what it affects New Yorkers. And come next year, $13.5 million to enact a cell phone ban in schools. And my curiosity is how do you implement that, right? Because on paper, yes, you can say everyone’s — but it’s up to the individual schools to follow through. So how do you make it happen?

    Governor Hochul: Oh, we are aggressively working on this to educate all the school districts, educate the parents. Law enforcement plays a role in this too, because they need to persuade the parents that the most dangerous thing, if there is an incident on the school grounds, a shooting, for example, that it’s not safe for their kids to be reaching for their cell phone and videoing it.

    So I’m really excited about this when I go around the city, more people have raised this is something they’re really happy we did. We’re the largest state in America to have a full ban morning until nighttime. Your little girl will grow up in a world where she never even knew you could have a cell phone.

    And she’ll be smarter and more — have better mental health outcomes because our kids today are under such stress. And as a mom, I’m making sure we’re doing everything we can. This is going to be a game changer.

    Dan Mannarino, PIX 11: Yeah. But if a school says, “I don’t want to do it.”

    Governor Hochul: No, they have to do it.

    Dan Mannarino, PIX 11: They have to do it.

    Governor Hochul: It’s the law. This is why it took me a year to get this done. There’s a lot of opposition. And I said, “We need this done.” Every school has to comply with this. Make sure that parents know how to reach their kids during the day. Just like we did in the old days. We used to call the office and you have to have the phone away from the kids, not in their pockets.

    Don’t let them store it where they want. You have to have your own policy. I’m not going to dictate that. But from morning until school day ends, even during lunch and breaks, gym class because they need to start making friends again. They need to be kids again. We’re giving them their childhood back.

    Dan Mannarino, PIX 11: Can we bring back snow days?

    Governor Hochul: I’m from Buffalo. Don’t tell me about that — we went to school during so many blizzards. They thought it was a sign of weakness if you took a snow day. No, we always went to school during blizzards.

    Dan Mannarino, PIX 11: Governor Kathy Hochul, I always appreciate you coming in. Good to see you.

    Governor Hochul: Good to see you too, Dan.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Canada partners with First Nations, Inuit and Métis on 3 new Indigenous-led climate projects in developing countries

    Source: Government of Canada News

    June 21, 2025 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

    Indigenous Peoples have a strong connection to the natural world, and their leadership is key in tackling climate change. That is why Canada is committed to working in true partnership with Indigenous Peoples for inclusive and collaborative climate action by supporting Indigenous-led projects and Indigenous leadership on climate resilience here at home and in the most vulnerable regions of the world.

    Today, on National Indigenous Peoples Day, the Honourable Randeep Sarai, Secretary of State (International Development), in collaboration with Indigenous partners, announced $5.1 million in federal funding over 2 years to support 3 new Indigenous-led initiatives that will help build climate resilience and support climate action by Indigenous Peoples in South America, Africa and the Indo-Pacific region. These initiatives will be designed and implemented in partnership with First Nations, Inuit and Métis in Canada and Indigenous Peoples abroad.

    The new projects are as follows:

    Our Collective Futures: Indigenous Peoples Partnering for Lands and Waters: The Assembly of First Nations will partner with Indigenous Peoples in the Indo-Pacific to strengthen climate resilience centering on the needs of Indigenous Peoples and their self-determined priorities for climate and biodiversity action. This will be done through knowledge-sharing and capacity-building to develop and implement climate solutions and will increase access to these solutions for Indigenous Peoples, in particular women and youths, who are disproportionately affected by climate change. This project builds on local efforts led by the Asia Indigenous Peoples Pact.

    The Indigenous Climate Action Partnership: The Inuit Circumpolar Council (Canada) will aim to increase the climate resilience of Indigenous Peoples in developing countries by fostering partnerships, shared learning and mutual support in climate adaptation work and advocacy skills. The project will highlight Indigenous-led nature-based solutions through learning experiences on the land and connect Indigenous leaders around the world.

    A World of Wahkohtowin: The Métis National Council will collaborate with Indigenous Peoples in Colombia and Zambia to co-create culturally relevant climate adaptation strategies that are deeply connected to the identities of the Nations and Peoples involved.  Rooted in the value of wahkohtowin— a Cree word meaning kinship and interconnectedness—this work emphasizes the importance of building respectful, reciprocal relationships across Nations. The initiative aims to reduce poverty by safeguarding the livelihoods and resources that Indigenous communities depend on while also supporting gender equality and on-site learning.

    This announcement is being made during Canada’s National Indigenous History Month, a time to recognize and honour the rich histories, cultures and contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis, as well as deepen our understanding of Indigenous Peoples in Canada and around the world.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Upcycling Carbon Waste & Why the Ocean is Getting Darker | WEF | Top Stories Week

    Source: World Economic Forum (video statements)

    This week’s top stories of the week include:

    0:15 5 nations leading energy transition – The World Economic Forum’s Energy Transition Index 2025 ranks countries by how well they are progressing towards secure, equitable, and sustainable energy systems.

    3:51 Start-ups upcycle carbon waste – Three innovative start-ups are proving that carbon emissions don’t have to be waste—they can be resources. These UpLink Top Innovators are transforming CO2 into materials used in daily life.

    6:25 UK kids project boots fitness – Around the world, most kids don’t get enough exercise. But one initiative in Bradford, UK, shows this can be changed with the right approach.

    8:05 Why the ocean is getting darker – Over the past 20 years, more than 20% of the world’s ocean has grown darker. This trend is shrinking the photic zone—the sunlit layer that supports nearly all marine life.

    ____________________________________________

    The World Economic Forum is the International Organization for Public-Private Cooperation. The Forum engages the foremost political, business, cultural and other leaders of society to shape global, regional and industry agendas. We believe that progress happens by bringing together people from all walks of life who have the drive and the influence to make positive change.

    World Economic Forum Website ► http://www.weforum.org/
    Facebook ► https://www.facebook.com/worldeconomicforum/
    YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/wef
    Instagram ► https://www.instagram.com/worldeconomicforum/ 
    Twitter ► https://twitter.com/wef
    LinkedIn ► https://www.linkedin.com/company/world-economic-forum
    TikTok ► https://www.tiktok.com/@worldeconomicforum
    Flipboard ► https://flipboard.com/@WEF

    #WorldEconomicForum

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1D3pzeopYfg

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Upcycling Carbon Waste & Why the Ocean is Getting Darker | WEF | Top Stories Week

    Source: World Economic Forum (video statements)

    This week’s top stories of the week include:

    0:15 5 nations leading energy transition – The World Economic Forum’s Energy Transition Index 2025 ranks countries by how well they are progressing towards secure, equitable, and sustainable energy systems.

    3:51 Start-ups upcycle carbon waste – Three innovative start-ups are proving that carbon emissions don’t have to be waste—they can be resources. These UpLink Top Innovators are transforming CO2 into materials used in daily life.

    6:25 UK kids project boots fitness – Around the world, most kids don’t get enough exercise. But one initiative in Bradford, UK, shows this can be changed with the right approach.

    8:05 Why the ocean is getting darker – Over the past 20 years, more than 20% of the world’s ocean has grown darker. This trend is shrinking the photic zone—the sunlit layer that supports nearly all marine life.

    ____________________________________________

    The World Economic Forum is the International Organization for Public-Private Cooperation. The Forum engages the foremost political, business, cultural and other leaders of society to shape global, regional and industry agendas. We believe that progress happens by bringing together people from all walks of life who have the drive and the influence to make positive change.

    World Economic Forum Website ► http://www.weforum.org/
    Facebook ► https://www.facebook.com/worldeconomicforum/
    YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/wef
    Instagram ► https://www.instagram.com/worldeconomicforum/ 
    Twitter ► https://twitter.com/wef
    LinkedIn ► https://www.linkedin.com/company/world-economic-forum
    TikTok ► https://www.tiktok.com/@worldeconomicforum
    Flipboard ► https://flipboard.com/@WEF

    #WorldEconomicForum

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1D3pzeopYfg

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI China: China ready to work with Russia to consolidate political mutual trust, strengthen bonds of shared interests: vice premier

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

    China ready to work with Russia to consolidate political mutual trust, strengthen bonds of shared interests: vice premier

    Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with Russian President Vladimir Putin in St. Petersburg, Russia, June 20, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    ST. PETERSBURG, June 21 — Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang said here on Friday that China stands ready to work with Russia to continuously consolidate their political mutual trust and strengthen the bonds of shared interests.

    Ding, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks when meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

    Ding first conveyed cordial greetings and best wishes from Chinese President Xi Jinping to Putin.

    Not long ago, Xi was invited to visit Russia and attend the celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Soviet Union’s Great Patriotic War, Ding said. Xi had in-depth strategic communication with Putin and made new top-level designs for the development of China-Russia relations for the next stage, he said.

    The leadership and strategic guidance of Xi and Putin provide the strongest assurance for deepening China-Russia cooperation and sustaining their friendship for generations to come, and also serve as the biggest certainty for the two countries to jointly deal with various uncertainties on the way forward, Ding said.

    He said China stands ready to work with Russia to further expand trade and investment, deepen practical cooperation in the energy sector, advance relevant projects, and support each other’s development and revitalization.

    The vice premier said that in the face of profound changes in the global landscape, China and Russia should uphold comprehensive strategic coordination, defend international justice, support the WTO-centered multilateral trading system, jointly safeguard the stability of supply chains, and deepen multilateral cooperation through mechanisms such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and BRICS, so as to contribute to promoting an equal and orderly multipolar world as well as universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization.

    For his part, Putin asked Ding to convey his sincere greetings to Xi and welcomed Ding’s attendance at the 28th St. Petersburg International Economic Forum.

    Putin said that despite external difficulties and challenges, Russia-China relations have achieved all-round development and reached an unprecedented level.

    He expressed Russia’s readiness to further strengthen practical cooperation with China and work together to create a better future for both countries and the world.

    Putin said he looks forward to visiting China for the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit in Tianjin and the commemorative events marking the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: A glimpse of Zhongguancun Exhibition Center in Beijing

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

    A glimpse of Zhongguancun Exhibition Center in Beijing

    Updated: June 21, 2025 20:14 Xinhua
    People visit the Zhongguancun Exhibition Center in Beijing, capital of China, June 20, 2025. The exhibition center, inaugurated in July 2011, is a platform and window to showcase the independent innovation achievements of Beijing and Zhongguancun, known as “China’s Silicon Valley.” The current permanent exhibition, covering an area of 10,000 square meters, features five major sections under the theme of new quality productive forces in Beijing. It presents technologies and products from more than 350 Beijing-based research institutions and enterprises in cutting-edge fields such as AI, commercial aerospace, and high-end medical devices. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Journalists work on site while visiting the Zhongguancun Exhibition Center in Beijing, capital of China, June 20, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Glimpse of exhibition areas of South Asian countries at China-South Asia Expo

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

    Glimpse of exhibition areas of South Asian countries at China-South Asia Expo

    Updated: June 21, 2025 20:30 Xinhua
    People visit the South Asia Pavilion during the 9th China-South Asia Expo in Kunming, southwest China’s Yunnan Province, June 21, 2025. The six-day event, opened on Thursday in Kunming, features 16 exhibition halls. Nearly 500 enterprises from eight South Asian countries are participating in the event. [Photo/Xinhua]
    This panoramic photo shows people visiting the exhibition area of Sri Lanka at the South Asia Pavilion during the 9th China-South Asia Expo in Kunming, southwest China’s Yunnan Province, June 21, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Rosneft plans work based on oil prices of $45 in 2025 and $42-43 in 2026 – Sechin

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Rosneft – Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The energy panel organized by Rosneft Oil Company as part of the SPIEF ended with the traditional oil price forecast from its participants. This year, the head of the Company Igor Sechin and the Chairman of the Supervisory Board of the non-profit initiative of the Japanese government to develop low-carbon technologies Nobuo Tanaka presented their vision of the development of events.

    Professor Tanaka recalled that a year earlier, Energy Panel participants predicted the price of oil at $60 per barrel. “This year, I am afraid that the price may exceed $100 due to the crisis that is currently happening in the Middle East,” said the Japanese expert, who headed the International Energy Agency from 2007 to 2011.

    In turn, the head of Rosneft responded to this: “Whatever it (the price of oil – ed.) may be, it is difficult for us to guess what will happen. Nobody knows. I will remind Machiavelli: “The power of power is in its secret.”

    At the same time, Igor Sechin named the price that the Company included in the business plan for 2025 and 2026: “We do not know what geopolitical factors will affect the market. But whatever they are, our company Rosneft is setting its business plan for this year at 45 dollars, and for the next year at 42-43. We do not want to depend on this volatility,” he said.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft June 21, 2025

    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 –

  • PM shares article on Yoga’s impact on women and child well-being

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday shared an article emphasising how the integration of yoga into women and child welfare policies is helping enhance grassroots health and overall well-being across India.
     
    Responding to a post by Union Minister for Women and Child Development Annapurna Devi on X, the Prime Minister said, “Union Minister @Annapurna4BJP Ji highlights how integrating yoga into women and child welfare policies is enhancing grassroots health and well-being across India… Have a read!”
     
    The article sheds light on the efforts being made to promote yoga as a mass movement for building a healthier and more resilient India. As the birthplace of yoga, India continues to honour this ancient discipline not just as a form of physical exercise, but as a comprehensive approach to wellness that nurtures the mind, body, and spirit. Quoting the Bhagavad Gita’s phrase yogah karmasu kaushalam, meaning “yoga is skill in action,” the article underscores yoga’s role in empowering women and fostering healthy growth in children.
     
    With this year’s International Yoga Day celebrated under the theme “Yoga for One Earth, One Health”, the government is focused on mainstreaming yoga into the lives of women and children—groups that make up two-thirds of India’s population and are particularly vulnerable to health issues. The article outlines how yoga contributes to improving mental health, hormonal balance, and the musculoskeletal system among women of all ages.

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Global energy balance: heads of major energy companies and experts at SPIEF discussed the future of energy

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Rosneft – Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    At the Energy Panel of the XXVIII St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, leading industry experts, politicians, scientists, government officials and heads of major international energy companies discussed current trends in the global energy market.

    Their assessments and forecasts largely coincided with the visionary concept of the industry development presented by Rosneft CEO Igor Sechin. In his report “The Odyssey of the World Economy in Search of the Golden Fleece. The New Image of World Energy,” he announced that the current state of world energy is at the stage of forming a new image, caused by the multiple growth of electricity consumption, the generation of which will be provided by both fossil fuels and renewable energy sources. According to him, the optimal solution today is “the synthesis of traditional and alternative energy sources.”

    The event, organized with the support of PJSC NK Rosneft, was attended by Chairman of the Board of Directors of Rosneft Mohammed Bin Saleh Al-Sada, Executive Vice President of the Republic of Venezuela Delcy Rodriguez, Chief Executive Officer of Pertamina Simon Aloysius Mantiri, Vice President of CNPC Zhang Daowei, Executive Director of Reliance Industries Panda Madhusudana Shiva Prasad, Academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences Alexander Dynkin, Minister of Energy of the Republic of Uzbekistan Jurabek Mirzamakhmudov, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of the non-profit initiative of the Japanese government for the development of low-carbon technologies Nobuo Tanaka, as well as President of TOFS Group David Gadzhimirzaev.

    ENERGY TRANSITION WITHOUT TRANSITION

    Mohammed Bin Saleh Al-Sada opened the discussion of Igor Sechin’s report, noting the depth of his analysis. “It was comprehensive – the way you showed that progress and energy are inseparable,” Al-Sada addressed Sechin.

    The head of the board of directors of Rosneft drew the audience’s attention to the fact that, despite the active promotion of the idea of switching to renewable energy sources, the share of fossil energy sources in the energy balance has not changed in recent decades. He recalled that Igor Sechin mentioned in his report that fossil fuels account for 80% of the world’s energy balance. “And these statistics have not changed in the last 20 years! We flutter around these 80% of fossil fuels and energy sources, and, therefore, little has changed!” exclaimed Al-Sada, describing the situation in the global energy sector.

    “In other words, we are essentially not making any transition away from hydrocarbons,” he concluded, emphasizing that the transition to renewable energy sources is being imposed on the industry and the public.

    “I would also like to take the baton from Mr. Sechin and pass on my comment to you. This is food for thought: are we really moving from fossil fuels to renewables?” Al-Sada addressed the audience.

    The Chairman of the Board of Directors of Rosneft also noted that the demand for energy for various reasons does not always coincide with the growth of production. “I would like to express two small thoughts in order to further color the valuable things that we heard in the words of Mr. Sechin. The lack of investment is already a reality in the hydrocarbon and energy sectors. This is what can really lead us to a serious shortage of energy. “If this trend continues, we may face a shortage of energy resources. This is not only my personal opinion, but also what a large number of analysts say, including the International Energy Agency and other respected experts, who in their reviews emphasize the importance of having sufficient investment in the hydrocarbon sector. Otherwise, we will face the risk of a shortage of primary energy!” Al-Sada emphasized.

    THE FUTURE IS SYNERGY

    Vice President of China’s CNPC Zhang Daowei noted that he listened with interest to the report of Rosneft’s Chief Executive Officer. In his speech, the top manager of the Chinese company expressed similar assessments of the development paths of the global energy sector – in particular, the need for synergy between traditional and new energy sources.

    “We have always believed that in the context of the energy transition course, it is necessary to adhere to the synergetic, comprehensive development of traditional and new energy sources, fully take into account the characteristics and level of development of our countries’ markets, properly link the energy transition with energy security, and promote a fair and sustainable model of energy transformation,” Daowei noted.

    According to the vice president, within the framework of this philosophy, CNPC, on the one hand, continues to increase the exploration and development of oil and gas fields at home and import high-quality resources from abroad, including strengthening long-term cooperation with Russia in the field of hydrocarbon trade. On the other hand, CNPC actively adheres to the strategy of “green”, low-carbon development and implements the development of the “three-step strategy” combining oil and gas projects using wind, solar, geothermal, hydrogen and carbon capture technologies.

    Indonesia’s Pertamina President and CEO Simon Aloysius Mantiri said the company is pursuing a dual growth strategy that relies on both traditional resources and low-carbon solutions, with natural gas playing a major role in the country’s energy mix.

    “Natural gas is at the center of our strategy to transition to cleaner fuels. And today we are expanding our capacity and ability to produce LNG for both domestic and export needs,” he said.

    The head of Pertamina essentially repeated the thesis voiced in Igor Sechin’s report, and particularly emphasized that by achieving a balance of energy sources and a comprehensive approach, the company is capable of ensuring high rates of economic growth and, at the same time, carbon neutrality.

    Reliance Industries CEO PMS Prasad said India does not choose between energy access and innovation. “It integrates both. By developing scalable, context-specific solutions, it addresses local priorities while making a significant contribution to global sustainability. From rural microgrids to energy-efficient data centres, India is turning its potential into a strategic asset,” Prasad said.

    He stressed that international partnerships play a vital role in this ambitious endeavour. “Energy remains a key cornerstone of the strategic relationship between India and Russia. India values this trusting partnership and appreciates the cooperation built over decades. The leadership of both countries is committed to taking this partnership to even higher levels in the future,” the Reliance Industries CEO concluded.

    NUCLEAR POWER PLANTS ARE NOT WRITTEN OFF THE ACCOUNTS

    Rosneft CEO Igor Sechin noted in his keynote speech at the Energy Panel the growing interest in nuclear power generation worldwide and, accordingly, the growth of investments in this area. According to him, this is happening against the backdrop of growing energy consumption and in the future nuclear energy will be in demand along with fossil fuels and renewable energy sources.

    Reliance Industries CEO Panda Madhusudana Shiva Prasad, speaking in turn about the prospects for the development of India’s energy sector, particularly emphasized the significant role of nuclear power generation.

    “Gas, renewables supported by energy storage systems and a robust transmission grid, and nuclear power will play a key role. India’s ambitious nuclear programme, including small modular reactors, reflects its commitment to long-term energy security and decarbonisation,” Prasad said.

    The revival of interest in investment in the construction of nuclear power plants was noted in the speech of the Minister of Energy of Uzbekistan Jurabek Mirzamakhmudov. He spoke about joint plans with Russia to build two units of 55 megawatts each, and two units of VVR-type reactors – water-cooled power reactors. The head of the ministry also reported that the country is installing power plants where gas is burned, hydropower is developing, the share of renewable sources is increasing, and storage systems are being created at the same time.

    The Minister noted the content of Igor Sechin’s report, which provided a detailed analysis and reflected all the development trends in global energy, science and economics.

    ENERGY SECURITY FIRST

    In her speech, the Executive Vice President of the Republic of Venezuela, Delcy Rodriguez, supported the thesis expressed by the head of Rosneft that issues of ensuring energy security should be a top priority.

    “We always advocate that the energy transition be carried out responsibly, taking into account reality, in order to avoid abrupt changes that could threaten energy security,” Rodriguez said.

    The Executive Vice President of Venezuela named the main components of a stable energy system of the future: energy security, reliable supplies, accessibility for all, and at the same time respect for nature – with minimal impact on the environment.

    Among the main threats to energy security, Rodriguez named illegal sanctions against producing countries and the hegemony of the dollar.

    Chairman of the Supervisory Board of the Japanese government’s non-profit initiative to develop low-carbon technologies Nobuo Tanaka, in turn, noted that the answer to energy security issues is always associated with diversification of supply sources, increasing energy efficiency and searching for alternative energy sources, including renewable energy sources, nuclear energy and regulating the market through predictable policies.

    CONTRARY TO LOGIC

    The participants in the discussion drew attention to the political events of the last decades and stated that today geopolitics shapes the directions of economic cooperation. Moreover, often contrary to the logic of market expediency and economic efficiency.

    Tanaka recalled in this regard how he discussed Germany’s energy policy with Chancellor Merkel in 2009: “I asked her why Germany does not use nuclear energy. She answered like this: Mr. Tanaka, I am a scientist, I know how important it is to use nuclear energy, but in order to use it in Germany, she said, give me the votes of the voters in exchange for it. Yes, she is a good scientist, but she is also a very smart politician.”

    The professor is sure that despite her experience, Merkel made a very serious mistake by changing her policy on the use of nuclear power plants under pressure from public opinion. Another mistake was the refusal to use Russian energy resources and Russian natural gas. “I think she was misled,” Tanaka said.

    “Geopolitics is a factor in the global economy of the 21st century. It is geopolitical interests that united the BRICS countries. The criterion for membership is not the application of sanctions against other members of the organization. But geopolitics has also become a kind of “trap” for Germany after Trump’s victory,” says academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences Alexander Dynkin.

    He noted that Eurocrats are concerned about the complete rejection of energy supplies from Russia by 2027. “They are not stopped by the growth of costs, which undermines the competitiveness of the EU,” Dynkin noted and recalled that if in 2014 the US GDP was ahead of the EU GDP by only 12%, then last year the American economy was already 50% larger than the European one.

    “Although the German energy crisis is formally over, the country paid for it with three years of stagnation, deindustrialization, inflation, and a migration crisis,” said the member of the Russian Academy of Sciences.

    DIGITAL REVOLUTION

    The thesis voiced in Igor Sechin’s report that the digital revolution is opening a new era in the development of the oil and gas industry received a warm response from the audience. In particular, David Gadzhimirzaev, CEO of the oilfield services company TOFS, thanked Rosneft for supporting innovation and developing technologies. He emphasized the importance of ensuring the availability, stability and reliability of resources, which can be provided by new technologies that will reduce the cost of lifting barrels to the surface.

    “We all know that literally this year the energy strategy-2050 was approved, which includes the fact that by 2050 about 70% of the Russian Federation’s production will be from hard-to-recover reserves. Therefore, we, in turn, are not only working on the expertise, but also working on the production of new technologies,” Gadzhimirzaev said.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft June 21, 2025

    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 United Nations: IOM and OIC Sign Landmark Plan of Action to Strengthen Cooperation on Migration Governance

    Source: International Organization for Migration (IOM)

    Istanbul, Türkiye, 21 June 2025 – The International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) have signed a groundbreaking three-year Plan of Action that will significantly enhance cooperation on migration governance and humanitarian response across OIC Member States. The agreement was formalized on the margins of the 51st Session of the OIC Council of Foreign Ministers in Istanbul.

    Building on the Cooperation Agreement signed in January 2003, the Plan of Action 2025–2027 establishes a clear framework for collaboration between the two organizations through joint programming, policy dialogue, and operational cooperation. It outlines four priority areas of collaboration and concrete actions to be pursued jointly by the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and the International Organization for Migration at the national, regional, and global levels.

    “With this plan, we move from principle to practice as we strengthen coordination between our institutions to deliver meaningful support for displaced populations, migrants, and host communities in the OIC region,” said Mr. Othman Belbeisi, Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa and IOM’s Representative to the OIC, who signed the agreement on behalf of IOM.

    He also expressed appreciation to Ambassador Tariq Ali Bakheet, OIC Assistant Secretary General for Humanitarian, Social and Cultural Affairs, for his continued leadership and commitment: “I thank Ambassador Bakheet for his steadfast support and the growing partnership between our organizations, which is critical to advancing shared priorities on migration and humanitarian action.”

    Ambassador Bakheet welcomed the new framework: “This Plan of Action is a reflection of our shared commitment to responding to the urgent needs of vulnerable people on the move and to finding longer-term solutions to displacement in the Muslim world.” 

    To ensure effective implementation, the plan involves close coordination between both organizations’ headquarters, regional, and country offices. A joint mechanism will be established to monitor progress and guide implementation through biannual meetings.

    The agreement is effective immediately and will remain valid through 31 December 2027, with provisions for mutually agreed amendments. 

    The signing marks a significant step forward in international cooperation, reinforcing the critical role of regional partnerships in shaping effective migration governance, humanitarian action, and sustainable development — central themes at this year’s OIC Conference.

    For more information, please visit IOM’s Media Centre.  

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Rosneft CEO Calls Energy Sector One of Driving Forces of New Technological Revolution

    Source: Rosneft

    Headline: Rosneft CEO Calls Energy Sector One of Driving Forces of New Technological Revolution

    The energy sector is one of the main drivers of the new technological revolution, said Igor Sechin, Chief Executive Officer of Rosneft, at the Energy Panel at the XXVIII St. Petersburg International Economic Forum.

    Delivering a keynote speech, he noted that the digital revolution with the application of artificial intelligence and work with big data should become the basis for labor productivity growth.

    Investment bank Goldman Sachs estimates that large-scale implementation of high technologies will increase labor productivity by 1.5 p.p. for developed countries and by 1 p.p. for developing countries within 10 years. “However, the development of advanced technologies requires substantial natural resources, as well as large-scale investments in infrastructure and human capital. This, in turn, means a multiple increase in energy consumption,” Rosneft CEO noted.

    “Undoubtedly, one of the main driving forces of the new technological revolution is the energy sector,” Sechin said. He recalled that the use of artificial intelligence on the basis of large data processing centers is a highly energy-intensive process. “According to the International Energy Agency, the electricity demand of a single 100 megawatt data center today is comparable to the consumption of 100,000 households. In the future, this demand could increase by several tens of times,” the Rosneft CEO added.

    Such centers, according to Sechin, will contribute more to the growth of global electricity demand than heavy industry or heat supply. “According to forecasts , by 2030 their electricity consumption will more than double, reaching one thousand terawatt-hours, which is comparable to Japan’s current consumption,” said the CEO of Rosneft.

    Igor Sechin also cited the development of the cryptocurrency market as an example of the impact of digitalization on the global energy system. According to him, in less than ten years they have turned into an independent industry, which today consumes resources on a par with entire countries. For example, the energy consumption of the entire bitcoin network as of May 2025 has already exceeded the level of electricity consumption in Poland.

    Department of Information and Advertising
    Rosneft Oil Company
    June 21, 2025

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Digital Revolution Opens New Era in Oil And Gas Industry Development – Sechin

    Source: Rosneft

    Headline: Digital Revolution Opens New Era in Oil And Gas Industry Development – Sechin

    The digital revolution is opening a new era in the development of the oil and gas industry, Rosneft CEO Igor Sechin said at the Energy Panel at the XXVIII St. Petersburg International Economic Forum.

    “The digital revolution is opening a new era in the development of the oil and gas industry, including the impact on oil exploration, production, refining, data storage and cybersecurity of the industry,” Sechin said during his keynote speech.

    Sechin cited expert estimates that the market for artificial intelligence technologies in the oil and gas industry will grow by 83% by 2030. At the moment, 49% of this market is in the refining segment. It is expected that the introduction of artificial intelligence in the upstream segment will grow by 14% per year over the next five years, said the CEO of Rosneft.

    Department of Information and Advertising
    Rosneft Oil Company
    June 21, 2025

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Pan-African Youth Take the Lead at CorpsAfrica’s 2025 All-Country Conference in Nairobi

    In a powerful convergence of hope, action, and purpose, more than 1,000 young change-makers, policymakers, philanthropists, and development partners from across Africa came together in Nairobi on Wednesday to mark the opening of CorpsAfrica’s (www.CorpsAfrica.org) 2025 All-Country Conference (ACC 2025).

    Download document (1): https://apo-opa.co/3ZIHAbQ

    Download document (2): https://apo-opa.co/3ZJ4Pm9

    Under the theme ‘Leading with Ubuntu: African Youth Transforming the Continent,’ speakers at the ACC 2025 unanimously called for African governments to institutionalize youth volunteerism as a pillar of national development. They urged policymakers to create enabling environments while aligning volunteer programs with broader socio-economic objectives, including job creation, civic engagement, and education.

    “At a time when Africa’s youth are calling for meaningful opportunities and a voice in shaping their future, we stand firm in our belief that they are the solution. Our vision is to cultivate a generation of African leaders—rooted in community and committed to sparking sustainable change from the grassroots up,” said Liz Fanning, Founder and CEO of CorpsAfrica.

    CorpsAfrica’s ACC 2025 is the organisation’s flagship biennial gathering, uniting diverse stakeholders to champion and accelerate youth-driven development across Africa. Building on the momentum of the ACC 2023 in Kigali, Rwanda, this year’s five-day summit aims to elevate the role of African youth—not just as leaders of tomorrow but as present-day catalysts for community-led, youth-driven transformation.

    Hosted at the Kenya School of Government, ACC 2025 brings together CorpsAfrica Volunteers, alumni, and staff from all 11 operating countries—Kenya, Malawi, Ghana, Rwanda, Morocco, Senegal, Ethiopia, Uganda, The Gambia, South Africa, and Côte d’Ivoire —marking a continental milestone in celebrating the power of volunteerism, African philanthropy, and youth innovation.

    “Since 2011, we’ve deployed over 1,000 African volunteers to under-resourced rural communities—not to impose solutions, but to listen, collaborate, and implement low-cost, high-impact community-led projects rooted in Indigenous knowledge. These aren’t just projects; they’re transformative platforms for human-centered design and asset-based community development,” emphasized Dr. Samora Otieno, CorpsAfrica’s Chief of Programs.

    The results speak volumes: CorpsAfrica volunteers have spearheaded more than Over 10,500 social and economic activities and 425 small-scale, high-impact community projects since 2021, improving the lives of nearly 2 million people. From education and clean water access to food security and youth entrepreneurship, these grassroots efforts tackle Africa’s most pressing challenges—one community at a time.

    CorpsAfrica’s ACC 2025 convenes in Nairobi at a pivotal moment, as Africa’s youth champion calls for expanded access to employment, entrepreneurship, and meaningful economic inclusion. Africa is the world’s youngest continent, with more than 70% of sub-Saharan Africa’s population under the age of 30 – yet faces a youth unemployment crisis of staggering proportions.

    For example, Kenya’s youth unemployment rate exceeds 38%, while Nigeria and South Africa grapple with even higher rates of 42% and 46% respectively.

    The conference aligns with global recognition of volunteerism’s transformative potential—including the UN Volunteers’ 2022 State of the World’s Volunteerism Report, which urges nations to formally recognize volunteer time as a measurable national economic asset.

    “We must reframe volunteerism – not as unpaid work, but as transformative leadership and professional development that accelerates public service for the 21st century” emphasized Dr. Patricia King’ori-Mugendi, Country Director of CorpsAfrica/Kenya. ”

    CorpsAfrica envisions ACC 2025 as the catalyst for a fundamental shift—harnessing African philanthropy to scale grassroots innovation across the continent. The June 16-20, 2025 gathering embodies Ubuntu principles through its commitment to pan-African knowledge exchange and collaborative action.

    Beyond conventional conferences, ACC 2025 delivers actionable outcomes: from youth investment policy dialogues to hands-on social enterprise incubators and community innovation demonstrations. This initiative re-frames the youth empowerment conversation, positioning volunteerism not as an alternative but as a strategic springboard to meaningful employment, entrepreneurial success, and values-driven leadership.  

    Participants attended robust professional development workshops and received a professional certificate to accelerate their careers on completion of their Volunteer service and become CorpsAfrica Alumni.

    The Government of Kenya reaffirmed its commitment to youth empowerment and innovation during the conference. Hon. Salim Mvurya, Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sport, challenged African nations to break free from donor dependency, urging a collaborative approach where governments, local businesses, diaspora networks, and communities jointly invest in youth volunteerism programs that deliver tangible opportunities, social inclusion, and dignity.

    ‘Africa’s youth have spoken with unmistakable clarity,’ Mvurya declared. ‘They want jobs – not handouts; platforms – not patronage; and action – not promises. As policymakers, we recognize this reality. Young people aren’t waiting – they’re building. CorpsAfrica’s model proves what happens when we equip youth with both trust and tools to lead.’

    As the premier organization equipping young Africans to lead sustainable change in their communities, CorpsAfrica demonstrates a transformative model of development – conceived by Africans, led by Africans, and implemented by  Africans.

    ‘The All-Country Conference sends a clear message to our youth. As Africa’s true transformation architects, your place isn’t just in boardrooms – it’s in villages, farms, classrooms, and clinics. Real leadership begins where people live, work, and struggle@, concluded Dr. King’ori-Mugendi.

    CorpsAfrica is redefining volunteerism as a powerful professional pathway. By embedding service into education curricula, employment systems, and national development frameworks, CorpsAfrica is creating an ecosystem where community-driven solutions become Africa’s sustainable growth engine.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of CorpsAfrica.

    About CorpsAfrica:
    Founded in 2011, CorpsAfrica recruits and trains ambitious young Africans to serve as volunteers in remote, under-resourced communities in their own countries. These volunteers facilitate small-scale, high-impact projects that are identified by local people and designed through a process of community-led development and human-centered design. Learn more at www.CorpsAfrica.org.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • Sri Lankan ministers, cricketers join Yoga enthusiasts for IDY celebrations

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    On the 11th International Day of Yoga (IDY), several Sri Lankan ministers, parliamentarians, cricket legends, cultural icons, and local residents gathered at the iconic Independence Square in Colombo to practice yoga, highlighting its significance in promoting a healthy lifestyle.
     
    The event was organised by the Indian High Commission in Colombo, in collaboration with Sri Lanka’s Health Ministry. More than 100 yoga instructors from across the island nation demonstrated yoga to participants, including members of the tri-forces, police, students, and yoga enthusiasts.
     
    Several senior ministers of the Sri Lankan government, including Anil Jayantha and Chrishantha Abeysena, as well as Deputy Speaker Rizvie Salih and other prominent figures from industry, attended the event.
     
    Meanwhile, several other IDY celebrations were also held in Galle, Kandy, and Jaffna, organised by diplomatic offices across the country.
     
    The 2025 theme — ‘Yoga for One Earth, One Health’ — emphasises the connection between personal well-being and planetary health, aligning with India’s broader vision of global harmony through traditional wisdom.
     
    Earlier on Thursday, the Department of Ayurveda under the Ministry of Health of the Government of Sri Lanka, together with the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre (SVCC), the cultural arm of the High Commission of India in Colombo, jointly organised IDY celebrations across the island.
     
    In a historic first, this event was simultaneously held at 113 Ayurveda hospitals, including teaching and research institutions across all nine provinces of the South Asian nation, along with four universities.
     
    This collaborative celebration with SVCC marks the first time that the entire network of Ayurveda institutions in Sri Lanka has participated in IDY in a unified manner.
     
    The SVCC supported the initiative by providing yoga mats, instructional books, and curated video content to all participating centres.
     
    This island-wide event underscored the growing global recognition of yoga as a powerful tool for physical, mental, and spiritual well-being, while also strengthening traditional healthcare ties between Sri Lanka and India.
     
    —IANS

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Shanghai pub promotes barrier-free recreation for people with disabilities

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    SHANGHAI, June 21 (Xinhua) — People sit in camping chairs and wheelchairs at an open-air concert. They sing, listen to music, chat and drink alcoholic beverages. As night falls, a neon sign reading “Pub Handycup” glows with a warm light.

    This scene, reminiscent of a still from a movie, unfolded in Shanghai. A year ago, this unusual establishment, designed with people with disabilities in mind, opened in the city center.

    Founder Xia Yujie watches with pride as his friends in wheelchairs move around the pub with ease, ordering and feeling at ease. “This is the perfect picture I have imagined for many years,” he says.

    With gentle ramps instead of steps, tables with rounded corners, a tactile pub map, a sign language board and ample room to maneuver, this 30-meter bar is a pioneer of its kind in China.

    Since opening last May, the pub has become a haven for people with and without disabilities. It serves around 10 craft beers daily, with a rotating selection, so they can drink and relax. It also hosts a range of accessibility events, including Braille workshops, book clubs and photography exhibitions.

    A regular customer surnamed Cui particularly appreciates the pub’s relaxed atmosphere. “No one judges you by your appearance here,” she told Xinhua. “Everyone is kind and willing to help each other.”

    For Xia Yujie, opening this bar was a mission of sorts. As a law school graduate with his left arm paralyzed due to a medical error in high school, he always wanted to create a welcoming space where people with disabilities could socialize, feel at home, integrate into the community, and shed stereotypes.

    For him, accessibility is not just about physical infrastructure. It is also about ensuring that everyone has equal access to recreational spaces that foster relationships and deepen connections.

    “People with disabilities have the same needs as everyone else,” Xia Yujie said. “But I often couldn’t find accessible places where everyone could just go, have a drink, and socialize as equals.”

    According to official statistics, there are about 85 million people with disabilities in China, equivalent to one-sixteenth of China’s entire population.

    In recent years, China has stepped up efforts to create a barrier-free environment. Significant progress has been made: libraries for the visually impaired have been created, special cinemas for wheelchair users have been equipped, and intelligent navigation systems for the blind have been introduced in public transport.

    In addition, in a number of regions, local authorities are actively involved in the refurbishment of housing and territory for people with disabilities, ensuring a barrier-free environment to facilitate their daily lives. Places such as Pub Handycup go beyond meeting basic needs, seeking to enrich the social life of these people and promote their sense of community and inclusion.

    Another regular, Bai, whose parents are hearing impaired, likens the pub to his childhood neighbourhood, where he feels a sense of belonging and enjoys the friendships of other guests. “It’s also pet-friendly. You can just play with them.”

    In the virtual world, pub-goers are also actively communicating. The Pub Handycup chat group brings together a wide range of members. Every day, the group is buzzing with discussion, sharing information about resources and activities to ensure accessibility, and joking about everyday topics.

    Active member Xiao Mi has received many birthday wishes in the chat. Living near the pub, he often comes to court in a wheelchair. Some time ago, he offered his help when Xia Yujie and his business partner were too busy.

    At the pub, Xiao Mi learned to pour drinks and make mulled wine, something he had never tried before. When the pub was busy, the outgoing man helped with service, moving between guests in his wheelchair. He even created a map that hangs on the wall with information about nearby facilities.

    Almost every week the pub hosts various events to support an accessible environment: master classes in sign language and Braille, art therapy sessions, and personal exhibitions of deaf photographers.

    Most of these events are initiated by the visitors themselves, who create pub-style events while showcasing their skills and ideas.

    “Some of our blind friends are good at Braille, so we collaborate with them to hold workshops to teach more people. In addition, our deaf-mute business friends sell their handicrafts in our pub,” Xia Yujie explained.

    The owner of the establishment expressed hope that the bar will be able to attract more residents of nearby areas to participate in events to support an accessible environment.

    “The many like-minded people I have met since opening the bar have reinforced my initial belief that what we do is not narrow-minded and we are not alone in this. It is a common idea for many people,” he said. “I also hope that more people can resonate with this.” -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Japanese Foreign Minister Calls for Preventing Escalation of Israeli-Iranian Conflict

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    TOKYO, June 21 (Xinhua) — Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya called for a de-escalation of the conflict between Israel and Iran, he told his Israeli counterpart Gideon Saar in a telephone conversation on Friday.

    The Japanese minister expressed deep concern over the ongoing exchange of attacks between Israel and Iran and the massive damage caused.

    He said any action that could lead to further escalation should be avoided and that restoring calm was of paramount importance.

    Takeshi Iwaya also asked the Israeli government for support in ensuring the safety of Japanese citizens in the country.

    Japan’s Foreign Ministry said on Friday that a total of 87 Japanese citizens and their family members have been evacuated from Israel and Iran to neighboring countries. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: NATO and Armenia strengthen cooperation in support to defence reform

    Source: NATO

    Representatives from NATO’s Defence and Security Cooperation Directorate met with Armenia’s Deputy Chief of Defence, Major General Arthur Yeroyan, and the leadership of the Armenian Armed Forces’ education institutions in Yerevan, on 9 and 10 June 2025. Following a request from Armenia’s Ministry of Defence, a team of experts of NATO’s Defence Education Enhancement Programme (DEEP) conducted an assessment of the Armenian military education system, earlier this year. During the visit in June the DEEP team presented the assessment’s results and recommendations to the Armenian Deputy Chief of Defence.

    Armenia is currently developing a new military education concept and doctrinal basis for its armed forces, in line with Western standards. NATO and Armenia will prioritise their cooperation on doctrine development, the approach to combined arms, strategic leadership, and on the drafting of a human resources concept for all different officer ranks and career paths.

    NATO’s Defence Education Enhancement Programme is supporting the continued professionalisation of the Armenian security and defence structures, through institution building and faculty development activities, including by modernising the Language Centre and establishing an eLearning Centre in the national Military Academy. Additional efforts are being carried out to consolidate the National Defence Research University as strategic level military education institution and to boost the development of a NCO corps, with the aim to enhance the ability of Armenian personnel to work alongside NATO. 

    Armenian Deputy Chief of Defence, Major General Arthur Yeroyan, underscored that the support provided by NATO through its Defence Education Enhancement Programme is key for the ongoing modernisation efforts of the Armenian forces and defence institutions.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Deputy Minister pays tribute to journalist Aserie Ndlovu

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    The passing of Aserie Ndlovu has robbed South Africa of an icon who still had much to offer and contribute, Deputy Minister in the Presidency Kenny Morolong said on Saturday.

    “The passing of Mr Ndlovu has robbed our nation of an icon, who still had so much to offer and contribute. Primarily, as government, we are saddened not only by his passing, but also the way he was brutally killed.  

    “We are confident that our criminal justice system will ensure that those who are responsible for their killing get harshest punishment as possible,” said the Deputy Minister.

    The Deputy Minister was speaking at the funeral service of the journalist and founder of Capital Live FM, in Mahlabathini, Mpumalanga.

    Ndlovu and his partner, Zodwa Mdhluli went missing in February this year with police having discovered two lifeless bodies believed to be that of the couple in May.  

    Law enforcement authorities had been investigating the couple’s disappearance.

    The Deputy Minister had previously visited the family as investigations into the couple’s disappearance continued.

    READ | Deputy Minister to visit family of missing journalist 

    “Government calls on all South Africans to join us as we pay tribute to a life well lived.  In this time of great sadness, the thoughts and prayers of the nation are with both families who lost their loved ones. 

    “We thank the family for opening your doors for us to engage and offer support from the time both Ndlovu and his partner were reported missing up until we learned about their tragic death,” he told mourners attending the service.

    READ | Government sends condolences to Ndlovu and Mdhluli families

    He added that Ndlovu made significant contributions to democracy by informing and educating the public through his work.

    “Sibusiso Aserie Ndlovu has a long-standing good working relationship with [the] GCIS [Government Communication and Information System] and the entire government communications system.

    “He collaborated with GCIS and government at large, through a range of activities in his profession as a community media practitioner, ranging from covering government activities such as media briefings, national days, and other key government initiatives.” 

    Deputy Minister Morolng said the late journalist was passionate about developing future journalists and media entrepreneurs in the local media sphere.

    “Mr Ndlovu also used to play a part in using his station working with government to connect other community radio stations in transmitting government messages through various programmes.

    “As government, particularly the government communications sector, we feel robbed of one of our own from the Fourth Estate, which is a pillar of our democracy tasked with speaking truth to power,” he explained.

    Ndlovu was also described as someone who understood “through his work that information is power and that an informed citizenry is the bedrock of democracy.”

    “Aserie, understood that journalism is a bridge between government and citizens,” said the Deputy Minister in his tribute adding that the community journalist also held those in power in the local municipality to account.  

    “In the age of misinformation and disinformation, community journalists can be guardians of truth and trust using local verified sources. In moments of crisis and disaster, community media practitioners become part of the first responders; providing life -saving local information,” he said.

    The Deputy Minister said the void created by the sudden and tragic death of Aserie Ndlovu and his partner, Zodwa Mdhluli is still hard to grasp. 

    Earlier this week, a memorial service was held at the GCIS to pay tribute to Ndlovu and Mdhluli.
    Mdhluli was laid to rest on Friday, 20 June 2025. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • Heatwave grips Kashmir, water shortages hit J&K once again

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    An unprecedented heatwave has gripped Kashmir, with temperatures exceeding 35°C for the past few days.

    Srinagar city recorded a high of 35.2°C on Thursday — the highest June temperature in the past two decades. Jammu city, too, saw a maximum of 36.5°C, narrowing the temperature gap between the two cities to just 1.3°C.

    The heat wave has caused a sharp drop in the water level of the Jhelum River, the Valley’s main water body. Originating at the Verinag Spring in Anantnag district and flowing into Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) via Uri in Baramulla district, the Jhelum has been severely affected.

    With perennial water reservoirs in the mountains already depleted due to reduced snowfall in winter, water levels in streams, rivers, lakes, springs, and wells across the Valley have alarmingly diminished.

    Farmers in Ganderbal, Srinagar, Budgam, Bandipora, Kupwara, Baramulla, Shopian, Kulgam, and Anantnag districts are already reporting water shortages for their paddy fields and apple orchards. Paddy crops, especially in higher areas, have begun to suffer due to inadequate irrigation.

    Paddy requires substantial water until the grains mature, and only during ripening and harvest can farmers allow their fields to dry. Apple orchards also require regular irrigation during the fruiting season; insufficient water leads to apples that lack color, succulence, and have a much shorter shelf life.

    While occasional rainfall in April and May had temporarily compensated for reduced water discharge in local rivers and streams, the current heat wave is worsening the situation.

    The Meteorological Department, however, offered some relief. A Met office forecast on Friday said, “Weather is likely to remain mainly dry in the Kashmir division with isolated light rain in the Jammu division during the next 24 hours. Scattered to fairly widespread light rain is likely to occur across J&K in the following two days.”

    Meanwhile, the School Education Department has announced a 10-day summer break starting July 1.

    IANS

  • Heatwave grips Kashmir, water shortages hit J&K once again

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    An unprecedented heatwave has gripped Kashmir, with temperatures exceeding 35°C for the past few days.

    Srinagar city recorded a high of 35.2°C on Thursday — the highest June temperature in the past two decades. Jammu city, too, saw a maximum of 36.5°C, narrowing the temperature gap between the two cities to just 1.3°C.

    The heat wave has caused a sharp drop in the water level of the Jhelum River, the Valley’s main water body. Originating at the Verinag Spring in Anantnag district and flowing into Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) via Uri in Baramulla district, the Jhelum has been severely affected.

    With perennial water reservoirs in the mountains already depleted due to reduced snowfall in winter, water levels in streams, rivers, lakes, springs, and wells across the Valley have alarmingly diminished.

    Farmers in Ganderbal, Srinagar, Budgam, Bandipora, Kupwara, Baramulla, Shopian, Kulgam, and Anantnag districts are already reporting water shortages for their paddy fields and apple orchards. Paddy crops, especially in higher areas, have begun to suffer due to inadequate irrigation.

    Paddy requires substantial water until the grains mature, and only during ripening and harvest can farmers allow their fields to dry. Apple orchards also require regular irrigation during the fruiting season; insufficient water leads to apples that lack color, succulence, and have a much shorter shelf life.

    While occasional rainfall in April and May had temporarily compensated for reduced water discharge in local rivers and streams, the current heat wave is worsening the situation.

    The Meteorological Department, however, offered some relief. A Met office forecast on Friday said, “Weather is likely to remain mainly dry in the Kashmir division with isolated light rain in the Jammu division during the next 24 hours. Scattered to fairly widespread light rain is likely to occur across J&K in the following two days.”

    Meanwhile, the School Education Department has announced a 10-day summer break starting July 1.

    IANS

  • Over 500 gather in Riyadh for 11th International Day of Yoga celebration

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Embassy of India in Riyadh celebrated the 11th International Day of Yoga with remarkable enthusiasm at the Prince Faisal bin Fahd Sports City Stadium on Friday, drawing over 500 yoga enthusiasts from across Saudi Arabia. The event, organized in collaboration with the Saudi Yoga Committee and local partners, highlighted this year’s theme, “Yoga for One Earth, One Health,” emphasizing yoga’s role in promoting individual well-being and global harmony. Ambassador of India to Saudi Arabia, Dr. Suhel Ajaz Khan, expressed heartfelt appreciation for the extraordinary turnout and warm support from Saudi authorities, describing yoga as more than just exercise but as a bridge between cultures and civilizations that transcends boundaries.

    The celebration featured prominent speakers who underscored the growing popularity of yoga in the Kingdom and its integration into Saudi Arabia’s evolving health and wellness landscape. Padma Shri awardee Ms. Nouf Al-Marwaai, President of the Asian Yogasana Sports Federation and a pioneering yoga advocate in Saudi Arabia, praised the Embassy’s continued efforts in spreading awareness and fostering cross-cultural engagement. Mr. Ahmed Alsady, CEO of the Saudi Yoga Committee, reaffirmed his organization’s mission to promote yoga as an integral component of Saudi wellness culture, while Ms. Shahad Al-Mufti, Director at the Saudi Ministry of Sport, also graced the event with her presence.

    The main attraction was the Common Yoga Protocol session, led by two women yoga instructors, Ms. Nervin Ashram and Ms. Seema Ghanam, who guided participants of all skill levels through foundational yoga postures and breathing techniques. The iconic stadium setting provided an ideal atmosphere for attendees to immerse themselves in various yoga asanas and experience their rejuvenating effects firsthand. The International Day of Yoga, proclaimed by the United Nations and celebrated globally each June 21, underscores the timeless relevance of yoga as a practice that harmonizes body, mind, and spirit.

    Friday’s main event represented the culmination of a month-long series of yoga activities organized by the Embassy throughout the Kingdom. The celebrations began with a curtain-raiser event at the Embassy on May 17, followed by multiple sessions in early June under the “Yoga for One Earth, One Health” theme. A particularly notable event took place at the iconic Edge of the World on June 8, showcasing yoga against a breathtaking natural backdrop that perfectly embodied the connection between human wellness and environmental harmony.

    The week leading up to the main celebration saw extensive participation from Indian school students across six Saudi cities — Riyadh, Jeddah, Taif, Jubail, Khafji, and Tabouk — who took part in yoga sessions from June 14 to 20. Their enthusiasm and unity reflected the spirit of wellness, harmony, and togetherness that yoga promotes, demonstrating how the ancient practice continues to resonate with younger generations. The widespread participation across multiple cities and the strong collaboration between Indian and Saudi institutions highlight the deepening cultural ties between the two nations and the universal appeal of yoga as a tool for physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

     

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Chinese-Russian relations are strong and unshakable – Vice Premier of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    St. Petersburg, June 21 (Xinhua) — Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang, a member of the Standing Committee of the Politburo of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, said on Friday that China-Russia relations are currently at their highest level of development in history, adding that they are stable, solid and unbreakable.

    The senior Chinese official made the statement while answering questions after speaking at the plenary session of the 28th St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF).

    He noted that China is pleased to see the resumption of contacts and exchanges between Russia and the United States. According to him, interaction between major countries is a benefit to the entire world, as it can help stabilize the international situation and revive the world economy.

    Ding Xuexiang also stressed that major countries should act accordingly and take a leading role in upholding the international system with the UN at its core, safeguarding international justice and providing greater certainty to the world.

    China, as a responsible country, is willing to work with all parties to promote global prosperity and stability, the vice premier said.

    Attributing the achievements in education and technology that have been achieved worldwide to exchanges and cooperation, Ding Xuexiang noted that some countries politicize educational and technological cooperation and create obstacles, which harms global sustainable development.

    Reality shows that innovation and progress can occur despite blockades or containment. China is willing to work with Russia to consistently expand the scale and scope of cooperation and improve interaction mechanisms to jointly raise bilateral educational and technological cooperation to a new level. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Seven killed, 20 injured in Nepal bus collision

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    KATHMANDU, June 21 (Xinhua) — Seven people were killed and 20 others injured in a head-on collision between two passenger buses in south-central Nepal on Saturday morning, local police said.

    At around 10am local time, an electric bus and a bus collided on the Chitwan section of the East-West Highway, killing three people on the spot.

    Four others died from their injuries while receiving medical treatment, Rabindra Khanal, a Chitwan district police spokesman, told Xinhua.

    According to him, the injured have been hospitalized in different hospitals in Chitwan. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –