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Category: DJF

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Government welcomes passage of Employment (Amendment) Bill 2025

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Government welcomes passage of Employment (Amendment) Bill 2025 
         The Bill revises the working hours threshold of the “continuous contract” requirement, which includes lowering the weekly working hours threshold from 18 hours to 17 hours; and providing an alternative of using the aggregate working hours in a specified four-week period as a counting unit in which a week with less than 17 working hours will still be regarded as a continuous employment period if the sum of the working hours of that week and those of the three weeks immediately preceding it reaches 68 hours.
     
         A Government spokesman said, “Since the implementation of the EO, the working hours threshold of the ‘continuous contract’ requirement has been maintained at 18 hours per week. This amendment exercise lowers the working hours threshold of the ‘continuous contract’ requirement and introduces flexibility in the calculation of working hours, reducing the circumstances of disrupting the continuity of an employee’s employment because the working hours of a week occasionally fall below the threshold.
     
         “After the amendments, other provisions of the EO will continue to operate as they currently do, and existing eligibility criteria for employees to enjoy various statutory benefits will remain unchanged. Employees who have met the current ‘continuous contract’ requirement will not be affected,” the spokesman added.
     
         The Employment (Amendment) Ordinance 2025 will be gazetted on June 27, 2025. The revised “continuous contract” requirement will be effective from January 18, 2026, onwards. In the meantime, the Government will publicise and brief the public on the Amendment Ordinance through various channels, presenting it in layman’s terms to enhance employers’ and employees’ understanding.
    Issued at HKT 15:48

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ4: Promoting cross-boundary eco-tourism

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Following is a question by the Hon Dominic Lee and a reply by the Acting Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Mr Raistlin Lau, in the Legislative Council today (June 18):
     
    Question:
     
    It has been reported that the Dapeng Peninsula of Shenzhen, which is adjacent to Yan Chau Tong of Hong Kong, possesses rich ecological resources, and both Shenzhen and Hong Kong have expressed intentions in recent years to strengthen cooperation in eco-tourism and marine conservation. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) of the details of cooperation projects commenced and co-operation agreements reached between the SAR (Special Administrative Region) Government and the relevant government departments of Dapeng New District, Shenzhen in terms of, among others, eco-tourism, green economy, and marine conservation; whether it has compiled statistics on the specific data and effectiveness of such co-operation projects over the past five years;
     
    (2) whether it has plans to promote cross-boundary eco-tourism from Kat O and Tung Ping Chau to the Dapeng Peninsula and devise related sea routes, including the construction of piers for “co-location arrangement” in such areas; if so, of the details and progress of the ongoing negotiations with Shenzhen authorities, including technical feasibility, estimated timetable, and related ancillary facilities; if not, the reasons for that; and
     
    (3) whether the Government has assessed the expected benefits of the aforementioned cross-boundary eco-tourism routes for Hong Kong’s tourism industry and local economy, as well as the potential risks involved in environmental conservation; if so, of the assessment results, and the policy directions determined in response to such results?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
    According to the Northern Metropolis (NM) Action Agenda announced in 2023, the Blue and Green Recreation, Tourism and Conservation Circle situated in the easternmost part of the NM comprises Robin’s Nest, Lin Ma Hang, Sha Tau Kok, Yan Chau Tong as well as coastal villages and the outlying islands. With abundant blue and green resources including country parks, marine parks and geopark as well as a number of traditional rural townships, this zone has the potential for recreation and tourism development.
     
    As set out in the Development Blueprint for Hong Kong’s Tourism Industry 2.0, the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau (CSTB) promotes in-depth integration of Hong Kong’s unique world-class resources with tourism, and crafts tourism products and projects with distinctive features and strong appeal, with “Ecology+Tourism” being one of the development strategies. On the premises of respecting the nature and protecting the environment, we will appropriately unveil Hong Kong’s precious ecological resources to visitors, and at the same time minimise the potential environmental impact due to too many visitors as far as practicable, thereby balancing the needs for conservation and tourism development.
     
    The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) under the Environment and Ecology Bureau (EEB) has designated places of high ecological value in Yan Chau Tong as country park, marine park and geopark, for conservation and eco-education and recreation purposes.
     
    In taking forth the above work, the wish of some local communities for maintaining a quiet countryside environment should also be considered.
     
    Having consulted the EEB, the Development Bureau, the Security Bureau and the Transport and Logistics Bureau, a consolidated reply in response to the questions raised by the Hon Dominic Lee is as follows:
     
    (1) The HKSAR (Hong Kong Special Administrative Region) Government has established mechanisms with the Shenzhen authorities for the cooperation in individual areas. On ecological conservation and environmental protection, following the establishment of the Robin’s Nest Country Park last year, the AFCD and the Planning and Natural Resources Bureau of Shenzhen Municipality signed the Cooperation Agreement last year on the establishment of the ecological corridor between Shenzhen Wutong Mountain and Hong Kong Robin’s Nest, including jointly removing invasive species, conducting ecological surveys, examining enhancement of animal corridors and enhancing publicity and education. The Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark also collaborated with the Shenzhen Dapeng Peninsula National Geological Natural Park to hold science lectures and exhibitions in both locations last year and this year, enabling citizens of both sides to have better understanding of the geological history, landforms, and geoparks of the two places.
     
    On marine conservation, the Environmental Protection Department and the Ecology and Environment Bureau of Shenzhen Municipality have been improving sewage collection and treatment through the Mirs Bay and Deep Bay (Shenzhen Bay) Areas Environmental Management Special Panel. With the concerted efforts of both sides, the water quality of Mirs Bay has been kept at a good level, and it is conducive to the conservation of marine ecology, especially the hard corals in the northeast waters of Hong Kong.
      
    The CSTB has been strengthening co-operation with the Shenzhen authorities in the tourism aspect under the principle of mutual benefits, including encouraging the trade to design eco-tourism products and itineraries on the premise of striking a balance between ecological conservation and tourism development. The travel trade of the Shenzhen and Hong Kong will also organise relevant familiarisation visits to help with the promotion work.
     
    (2) and (3) Yan Chau Tong in the northeastern part of Hong Kong possesses unique geological landscape, rich ecology and village culture with long history. The AFCD has, in collaboration with stakeholders and the local community, established visitor centers, cultural trails, land tour routes, island-hopping itineraries, and maritime tour routes, providing tourists an in-depth green tour experience. In addition, the Countryside Conservation Office under the EEB is dedicated to revitalising villages, and held the Countryside Harvest Festival: Kuk Po ‘Sound, Sight, Taste Fusion’ Tour at Kuk Po in Sha Tau Kok from January to February 2025. The event blended local natural ecology, historical architecture and countryside culture, allowing the public to experience the unique charm of Hong Kong’s countryside.
     
    Through the Working Group for Sha Tau Kok Co-operation Zone set up under the Task Force for Collaboration on the Northern Metropolis Development Strategy under the Guangdong-Hong Kong and Hong Kong-Shenzhen co-operation mechanism, the CSTB collaborates with Shenzhen to promote the tourism development in Sha Tau Kok and nearby areas (including Kat O) under the overall principle of “low density, high quality” and through enriching its historical and cultural elements. The CSTB has also been encouraging the business sector to develop diversified tourism products. At present, Mainland visitors can conveniently enter Hong Kong through various boundary control points to join local tours, including eco-tourism itineraries in Hong Kong. Earlier on, in collaboration with the Travel Industry Council of Hong Kong, the CSTB actively engaged with the trade in Hong Kong and Shenzhen. For instance, the CSTB organised the Sha Tau Kok island-hopping familiarisation tour for the travel trade from Yantian District of Shenzhen in December last year, which included visits to Lai Chi Wo, Kat O and Ap Chau, etc, for designing Sha Tau Kok island-hopping tours after crossing the boundary from the Liantang/Heung Yuen Wai Boundary Control Point.

    As regards the construction of piers for “co-location arrangement” for developing cross-boundary ferry routes between the eastern waters of Shenzhen and the NM area of Hong Kong as mentioned in part two of the question, it will indeed involve a number of complex considerations as mentioned in part three of the question, including the long-term market demand for the ferry routes concerned and the carrying capacity of the region; the infrastructure facilities that are required, the consequential change of planning as well as the economic and cost-effectiveness of the infrastructure investment; the security challenges that will have to be faced; and the potential impacts on the ecological environment, etc. which require long-term consideration by both sides of the governments. 
     
    Thank you President.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong Customs to publicise Dealers in Precious Metals and Stones Regulatory Regime at jewellery exhibition (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    Hong Kong Customs will set up a booth at the Jewellery & Gem ASIA Hong Kong (JGA), to be held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC), from tomorrow (June 19) for four consecutive days to publicise the Dealers in Precious Metals and Stones Regulatory Regime (Regime), and will provide on-site counter services to assist non-Hong Kong dealers in submitting cash transaction reports during their participation in the exhibition.

         According to the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing Ordinance (Cap. 615), the Regime came into effect on April 1, 2023. Any person who is seeking to carry on a business of dealing in precious metals and stones, and engage in any transaction(s) (whether making or receiving a payment) with a total value at or above HK$120,000 in Hong Kong is required to register with Hong Kong Customs and fulfil his/her anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing statutory obligations as appropriate. All dealers in precious metals and stones must successfully obtain a relevant registration before they can carry out any cash or non-cash transaction(s) with a total value at or above HK$120,000.

         For non-Hong Kong dealers fulfilling the prescribed conditions (including those who come to Hong Kong to participate in exhibitions), although they are exempt from registration, they are required to submit to Hong Kong Customs a cash transaction report for any cash transaction(s) (whether making or receiving a payment) with a total value at or above HK$120,000 carried out in Hong Kong within one day after the transaction, or before the dealer or the person acting on behalf of the dealer leaves Hong Kong, whichever is earlier.

         Non-Hong Kong dealers can make an online submission of a cash transaction report via the Regime’s webpage at www.drs.customs.gov.hk by accessing the Dealers in Precious Metals and Stones Registration System. They can also download the related form at www.drs.customs.gov.hk/download/drsform/CED418_Form%208_Cash%20transaction%20report.pdf and then submit the report in person at Hong Kong Customs’ booth at the JGA. 

         The Hong Kong Customs’ booth (Booth 1B330) is located at HKCEC Hall 1B and will be open from 10am to 6pm between June 19 and 21 and from 10am to 5pm on June 22.

         Dealers can visit the website (www.customs.gov.hk/en/service-enforcement-information/anti-money-laundering/supervision-of-dealers-in-precious-metals-and-ston/index.html) for more information about the Regime.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ9: Holding of large-scale concerts

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    LCQ9: Holding of large-scale concerts 
    Question:
     
    It is learnt that a number of large-scale concerts have been held recently at the Kai Tak Sports Park (KTSP), the AsiaWorld-Expo, the Hong Kong Coliseum and the Queen Elizabeth Stadium respectively, attracting tens of thousands of local and overseas “fans”, and large-scale music events will also be held at the KTSP’s Main Stadium one after another. Some commercial tenants in Kai Tak have pointed out that their sales volume surged by three times on the days of the aforesaid concerts, while the business of some catering establishments in Kowloon City District also increased by more than 30 per cent. On the other hand, there were cases in which a large number of Mainland fans had to wait for a long time before they could cross the border via the Huanggang Port after the aforesaid concerts. In this connection, will the authorities concerned inform this Council:
     
    (1) in view of the successive holding of large-scale music events and concerts as mega events, whether the Government has established a regular inter-departmental collaboration mechanism to assess and make preparations before the holding of each of the large-scale activities concerned, as well as to make a summary afterwards and announce the situation in a timely manner; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;
     
    (2) given that large-scale concerts were held at the AsiaWorld-Expo and various sports venues before and after the opening of the KTSP, whether the Government has compiled statistics on the attendances of such concerts and, among them, the respective ratios of local, overseas and Mainland audiences; and
     
    (3) whether the Government has assessed the economic benefits in promoting the growth of the hotel, catering, retail and transportation industries, etc, as well as creating job opportunities and so on during the aforesaid large-scale concerts; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
    Pop concerts brings substantial economic benefits and employment opportunities, creates a positive atmosphere in society and stimulates local consumption. The Government welcomes commercial organisations to hold concerts of singers and groups of Hong Kong and other places in the city. With its official commissioning in March, the Kai Tak Sports Park (KTSP) provides Hong Kong with the largest and state-of-the-art venues, and quickly becomes a new hub for hosting major international sports and entertainment events. 
     
    In consultation with the Transport and Logistics Bureau and the Security Bureau, my reply to the question raised by Dr the Hon Kennedy Wong is as follows:
     
    (1) To offer a pleasant experience to residents and tourists participating in large-scale pop concerts, relevant departments and organisations, for example the Leisure and Cultural Services Department, the Hong Kong Police Force, the Transport Department (TD), event organisers, venue management, public transport operators, maintains close liaison to discuss the detailed arrangements for every large-scale pop concert. Those arrangements include conducting risk assessments, deploying manpower, formulating and implementing comprehensive plans for crowd control, information dissemination, traffic diversion and control point arrangements, with a view to ensuring that the events will take place in a safe and orderly manner with well-prepared contingency plans for any unforeseen circumstances.
     
    For the KTSP, the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau monitors and guides the Kai Tak Sports Park Limited (the operator) in the communication and collaboration with various government departments, event organisers, and public transport providers to implement different preparatory work. Based on factors such as the number of attendees, the nature, ending times, and ticketing situations of the concerts, we make corresponding arrangements as needed, such as arranging special bus routes, increasing frequency of the Mass Transit Railway services, and notifying border control points. The operator also issues press releases and publicises the latest event arrangements and venue rules on social media prior to large-scale pop concerts. After the concerts conclude, relevant departments and the operator consolidate their experience with a view to further optimising the operation of events and concerts in the future.
     
    To facilitate the flow of passengers travelling through various boundary control points (BCPs) after large-scale events, relevant departments closely monitor the real-time situation of BCPs, make flexible deployment of manpower and operate additional counters and channels as necessary with a view to facilitating passenger and vehicular movements. Relevant departments also maintain close liaison with their Mainland counterparts to ensure smooth operations at BCPs.
     
    Taking the traffic arrangements after the three concerts held at the KTSP, the AsiaWorld-Expo (AWE) and the Hong Kong Coliseum (HKC) on the evening of May 24 this year as an example, as it was expected that a considerable number of passengers would return to the Mainland via the Lok Ma Chau/Huanggang Control Point after the concerts, the TD co-ordinated with the operators of cross-boundary coaches and Lok Ma Chau-Huanggang cross-boundary shuttle bus (Yellow Bus) in advance to increase the frequency of services to divert passengers. For the traffic arrangements at the KTSP, the number of cross-boundary coaches in service that night was double that of normal days, and about 3 300 passengers who had purchased tickets in advance were diverted within one hour after the concert ended; and after increasing the frequency of the Yellow Bus, it basically completed the transportation of all passengers from San Tin Terminus to Lok Ma Chau Control Point within one hour (from 00.00 to around 01.00).
     
    (2) and (3) According to our estimates, more than 285 performance sessions of pop concerts with over 10 000 spectators would be held throughout 2024 and first half of 2025. As a ballpark, these concerts would attract over 3.9 million spectators, including over 1.4 million tourists, whose spending is estimated to be about HK$3.4 billion, bringing a value add of about HK$1.9 billion to the Hong Kong economy.
     
    In 2024 and 2025 (as at May 31), the attendances of all pop concerts at the Kai Tak Stadium and the Kai Tak Arena, the AWE, the HKC and the Queen Elizabeth Stadium (QES) are set out below:
     

    Venue(as at May 31)Since the official commissioning of the KTSP, various renowned international and Asian bands and singers have staged a total of 15 large-scale concerts at the Kai Tak Stadium and the Kai Tak Arena, with more than half of the spectators coming from the Mainland and overseas. For pop concerts at the AWE, spectators from the Mainland and overseas take up over 30 per cent of the attendances.
    Issued at HKT 11:32

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ22: Ancillary transport facilities for Hong Kong Science Park

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Following is a question by Professor the Hon William Wong and a written reply by the Secretary for Transport and Logistics, Ms Mable Chan, in the Legislative Council today (June 18):

    Question:
    (1) whether comprehensive assessment and adjustment relating to the ancillary transport facilities in HKSP have been made by the authorities in the past three years in response to the growth of the working population in HKSP; if so, of the details; if not, whether such assessment and adjustment will be made;
    (1) To cater for the transportation needs of HKSP staff to commute to and from work, 20 franchised bus routes terminating or passing through HKSP are currently in service during the morning and evening peak hours on working days. Their service areas cover a wide range of districts across the Hong Kong Island, Kowloon and the New Territories, including Sha Tin, North District, Tai Po, Tuen Mun, Yuen Long, Tsuen Wan, Kwai Tsing, Tseung Kwan O, Kwun Tong, Yau Tsim Mong, Wan Chai, Eastern District and Islands District (including the Airport). In addition, there are six franchised bus routes and five green minibus (GMB) routes providing whole-day feeder services during non-peak hours, which connect HKSP to the MTR University Station, MTR Shatin Station, Sha Tin and Ma On Shan.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: IAEA Director General’s Introductory Statement to the Board of Governors

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) –

    (As prepared for delivery)

    As the armed conflict in Ukraine enters its fourth year, the nuclear safety and security situation throughout the country continues to be highly precarious. The presence of the IAEA at all Ukrainian nuclear facilities has been and continues to be an invaluable asset to the international community and must be preserved.

    The IAEA remains present at Ukraine’s nuclear power plant facilities. Difficult conditions have in the past month complicated and delayed one rotation of experts, which was safely completed in recent days. Back in December, a drone hit and severely damaged an IAEA official vehicle during a rotation. As I reported to you in the special Board meeting shortly afterward, staff survived this unacceptable attack unharmed, but the rear of the vehicle was destroyed. Other episodes followed, confirming the dangerous situation.

    Around Ukraine, the Khmelnitsky NPP, the Rivne NPP and the South Ukraine NPP, continue to operate amid serious challenges, including on the electricity infrastructure, a major risk to the reliable and stable supply of power crucial for the safe operation of NPPs. The electrical grid’s ability to provide a reliable off-site power supply to Ukrainian NPPs was further reduced by damage sustained following military attacks in November and December 2024, a mission of IAEA experts that visited and assessed seven critical electrical substations concluded late last year. Considering the seriousness of the situation, I visited the Kyivska electrical substation last month to observe the damage sustained first hand. On what was my 11th visit to Ukraine since the start of the war, I also met with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, reiterating the IAEA’s commitment to supporting nuclear safety and security in Ukraine and our readiness to support the country’s plans to expand nuclear power at Khmelnytskyy NPP. Consultations with Moscow have also taken place and will continue, in the interest of nuclear safety and security at Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant.

    At Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP), where the 6 reactor units are in cold shutdown, the status of the off-site power supply remains extremely vulnerable. For about one week ZNPP had to rely on a single off-site power line following the loss of its only remaining back-up line, confirming the extremely fragile situation. 

    Last month at the Chornobyl site a drone caused significant damage to the structure built to prevent any radioactive release from the reactor damaged in the 1986 accident and to protect it from external hazards. Although this attack did not result in any radioactive release, it nevertheless underlines the persistent risk to nuclear safety during this military conflict.

    Since the Board gathered for its last regular meeting in November 2024, the Agency has arranged 31 deliveries of nuclear safety, security and medical equipment and supplies to Ukraine, bringing the total so far to 108 deliveries valued at more than EUR 15.6 million. The Agency also has initiated the first phase of its support on safety and security of radioactive sources in Ukraine.

    We are grateful to all 30 donor states and the European Union for their extrabudgetary contributions, and I encourage those who can, to support the delivery of the comprehensive assistance programme, for which EUR 22 million are necessary.

    As reflected in my latest report to the Board on Nuclear Safety, Security and Safeguards in Ukraine, I would like to reiterate that all the IAEA’s activities in Ukraine are being conducted in line with relevant resolutions of the UN General Assembly and of the IAEA policy-making organs.

    Madame Chairperson,

    In February, I travelled to Fukushima to participate in collecting water samples off the coast of the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station. I did this together with scientists from China, Korea and Switzerland as part of additional measures to promote transparency and build trust in the region during the ongoing release of ALPS-treated water from the plant. Additional measures focus on expanding international participation and transparency, allowing hands-on independent measurements of the concentration level of the water. This work is conducted within agreed parameters set by the IAEA in its role as an independent, impartial and technical organization.  IAEA officials and experts from laboratories from China, France, the Republic of Korea, and Switzerland also sampled ALPS -treated water – prior to dilution – from measurement/confirmation tanks on the premises at the site. The IAEA has maintained its independent monitoring and analysis efforts, confirming that tritium concentrations in the discharged batches remain far below operational limits.

    In December 2024, an IAEA Task Force concluded that the approach TEPCO, and the Government of Japan are taking continues to align with international safety standards.

    While in Japan, I also visited facilities where soil removed after the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station accident is safely stored, managed, and recycled, an effort the IAEA has been supporting by working to ensure it meets international safety standards.

    You have before you the Nuclear Safety Review 2025 and the Nuclear Security Review 2025. Both documents present, in their respective areas, an analytical overview, the global trends, and the Agency’s main activities in 2024. They also identify the top priorities for the years ahead.

    This month the inaugural meeting of the Nuclear Security Working Group established under the Nuclear Harmonization and Standardization Initiative’s Regulatory Track will identify nuclear security topics of common interest amongst participating States and share regulatory approaches, good practices and lessons learned in ensuring the security of SMRs.

    Our preparatory work in advance of the launch of Atomic Technology Licensed for Applications at Sea (ATLAS) later this year is progressing. ATLAS will provide a framework to enable the peaceful maritime uses of nuclear technology, a prospect that is generating significant interest.

    Contracting Parties to the Joint Convention on the Safety of Spent Fuel Management and on the Safety of Radioactive Waste Management (Joint Convention) later this month will participate in the 8th Review Meeting to study National Reports with the aim of improving safety in radioactive waste and spent fuel management.

    December saw the start of a new project supporting the establishment of sustainable regulatory infrastructure for radiation safety and the security of radioactive material in Central East Asia and the Pacific Islands.

    In June, Romania will host ConvEx-3, the IAEA’s highest level and most complex emergency exercise. In the event of an incident with transboundary implications, Member States will be called upon to implement a harmonized response and therefore this exercise will have a particular focus on regional collaboration.

    The International Conference on Nuclear and Radiological Emergency Preparedness and Response will be held in December in Riyadh in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

    Madame Chairperson,

    Today, 417 nuclear power reactors operating in 31 countries make up almost 377 gigawatts of installed capacity, providing just under 10 per cent of the world’s total electricity and a quarter of its low-carbon supply.

    It is clear that countries are turning more and more to nuclear energy. In the IAEA’s high case scenario, global nuclear electricity generating capacity is seen increasing two and a half times by 2050.  Delivering on that promise will require public support. That is why the first IAEA International Conference on Stakeholder Engagement for Nuclear Power Programmes will gather governments, industry and practitioners from around the world in the final week of May. Mayors of municipalities with nuclear power facilities from around the world will share their experiences. No one is better placed to assess the impact and contribution to the community of nuclear facilities than those living there.

    Following our first Nuclear Stakeholder Engagement School, hosted by the Abdus Salam International Centre for Theoretical Physics in Trieste, Italy last November, we are now planning two more later this year. In addition, we have also established a new Stakeholder Engagement Advisory Service, which will help countries assess and strengthen their stakeholder engagement programmes.

    The use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly evolving and growing in all spheres of life, including in nuclear science and technology. AI data centres require a lot of energy and nuclear reactors provide clean, reliable, and adaptable options, including in the form of SMRs and micro reactors.  Meanwhile, the integration of AI into the nuclear sector offers the chance to streamline operations across the nuclear power project life cycle. In this context the IAEA will host the International Symposium on Artificial Intelligence and Nuclear Energy this December. We look forward to welcoming as many of you as possible to this important and first-of-a-kind event here at the Agency’s headquarters.

    Within the Secretariat we are also intent on making the most of AI while mitigating its risks, therefore we have established official guidelines, a portal and a community of practice.

    Our work on fusion continues apace with the publication of Experiences for Consideration in Fusion Plant Design Safety and Safety Assessment.

    Madame Chairperson,

    The Nuclear Technology Review before you highlights key advancements in nuclear applications that support Member States in addressing critical priorities. This year’s review places particular emphasis on innovations in food safety and authenticity, energy security, early disease detection and cancer treatment, environmental sustainability, and advanced manufacturing.

    In November, the IAEA hosted the Ministerial Conference on Nuclear Science, Technology and Applications and the Technical Cooperation Programme. The Ministerial Declaration recognized both the critical role of nuclear science, technology, and applications in tackling global challenges, and the important role of the Technical Cooperation programme as a key mechanism in transferring, expanding and further accelerating Member State access to nuclear technology, materials, equipment and expertise for peaceful purposes.

    I am pleased to report the IAEA’s technical cooperation programme achieved an implementation rate of 86% in 2024. We provided our emergency assistance to Türkiye and Syria, assessing damage to civil structures following the earthquakes and building the capacities of Turkish and Syrian experts in non-destructive testing. We initiated procurement to reinstate X-ray and laboratory services in Grenada and Honduras in the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl and Tropical Storm Sara, and we aided oil-spill clean-up efforts in Trinidad and Tobago.

    In 2024, the Rate of Attainment for contributions to the TC Fund was 95%, underscoring Member States’ commitment to our work. To ensure resources for the TC programme are sufficient, assured and predicable, I urge Member States to contribute on time, and in full, to the TC Fund.

    Our flagship initiatives are making progress across the globe. Under Atoms4Food, about 27 countries from all regions have officially requested support. Member States have pledged almost EUR 9 million, two thirds of which was contributed by Japan to support livestock production in Côte d’Ivoire, food safety in Mauritania, and molecular laboratories in Vietnam, among other projects.

    Our network of international partnerships has grown with Memoranda of Understanding having been signed with Anglo American, CGIAR, and the Inter-American Institute of Cooperation in Agriculture (IICA). The partnership with Anglo American focuses on combating soil salinization through climate-smart agricultural practices.

    While I was in Japan last month, I signed a partnership with Sumitomo Corporation, one of the world’s largest integrated trading companies, to cooperate particularly in the area of sustainable uses of nuclear related technologies for multiple areas, including healthcare, shipping, fusion and capacity building efforts.  

    Under Rays of Hope, the Anchor Centre in Argentina held its first capacity-building event to strengthen paediatric radiotherapy services in Latin America and the Caribbean, creating a regional network for knowledge exchange and support.

    In January 2025, the IAEA conducted its first national-level quality assurance audit in diagnostic radiology, reviewing 16 hospitals in Qatar.

    The International Conference on Advances in Radiation Oncology (ICARO-4) will take place in the first week of June, focusing on emerging radiotherapy techniques to address global health challenges.

    Under the Zoonotic Disease Integrated Action (ZODIAC), a novel surveillance technology for high-risk pathogens was transferred to the IAEA’s Animal Production and Health Laboratory in November and will soon be passed on to Member States. New funding pledges from the Republic of Korea, Portugal, and Japan are supporting ZODIAC’s coordinated research projects in Asia and Africa, as well as the development of AI-driven platforms for zoonotic disease monitoring.

    Under NUTEC Plastics 104 Member States are engaged in microplastic monitoring, with 42 developing recycling technologies. Four countries in Asia-Pacific and Latin America have validated radiation-based upcycling technology at lab scale, with private sector collaboration helping to build up operations. China is developing a pilot-scale facility, bringing the total number of countries promoting the technology to nine.

    In November this year, the International High-Level Forum on NUclear TEChnology for Controlling Plastic Pollution (NUTEC-Plastics): Scaling Solutions and Partnerships for Global Impact will take place in the Philippines. I thank the Philippines Government for hosting this important milestone.

    The Global Water Analysis Laboratory Network (GloWAL) baseline survey has received 85 responses from 65 countries, informing future activities. Its first coordination meeting for the Spanish-speaking Latin America and the Caribbean is underway.

    Under ReNuAL 2, the construction of new greenhouses in Seibersdorf is nearing completion and the modernized laboratories will be ready to welcome staff soon.  

    Madame Chairperson,

    Regarding the issue of Iran’s nuclear programme, you have before you my latest report on verification and monitoring in the Islamic Republic of Iran in light of United Nations Security Council Resolution 2231 (2015).

    Following my last report, Iran’s stockpile of uranium enriched up to 60% U‑235 has increased to 275 kg, up from 182 kg in the past quarter. Iran is the only non-nuclear weapon State enriching to this level, causing me serious concern.

    It has been four years since Iran stopped implementing its nuclear-related commitments under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), including provisionally applying its Additional Protocol and therefore it is also four years since the Agency was able to conduct complementary access in Iran.

    You also have before you my report on the NPT Safeguards Agreement with the Islamic Republic of Iran. Iran says it has declared all nuclear material, activities and locations required under its NPT Safeguards Agreement. However, this statement is inconsistent with the Agency’s findings of uranium particles of anthropogenic origin at undeclared locations in Iran. The Agency needs to know the current location(s) of the nuclear material and/or of contaminated equipment involved.

    There is also a discrepancy in the material balance of uranium involved in uranium metal production experiments conducted at Jaber Ibn Hayan Mutlipurpose Laboratory, for which Iran has not accounted.

    Having stated it had suspended such implementation, Iran still is not implementing modified Code 3.1, which is a legal obligation for Iran.

    I am seriously concerned that the outstanding safeguards issues remain unresolved. They stem from Iran’s obligations under its Comprehensive Safeguards Agreement and need to be resolved for the Agency to be in a position to provide assurance that Iran’s nuclear programme is exclusively peaceful.

    I deeply regret that Iran, despite having indicated a willingness to consider accepting the designation of four additional experienced Agency inspectors, did not accept their designation.

    There has been no significant progress towards implementing the Joint Statement of 4 March 2023. I call upon Iran urgently to implement the Joint Statement through serious engagement.

    In response to the Board’s request in its resolution of November 2024, I will produce a comprehensive and updated assessment on the presence and use of undeclared nuclear material in connection with past and present outstanding issues regarding Iran’s nuclear programme.

    High-level engagement is indispensable to making real progress. My visit to Tehran last November, and meetings with President Masoud Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi indicate that there may be room for constructive compromises. I hope to see them again soon and pursue effective dialogue and tangible results.

    The Board has before it for approval a draft Additional Protocol for Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

    I have made it a priority to strengthen the legal framework for safeguards. Since the last Board meeting in November, Oman, Mongolia, Cyprus, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and Zambia have amended their original Small Quantities Protocols and Saudi Arabia has rescinded its original SQP. The number of States with safeguards agreements in force remains 191, and 143 of these States have additional protocols in force. I call upon the remaining three States Parties to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons without comprehensive safeguards agreements to bring such agreements into force without delay. I also encourage States that have not yet concluded additional protocols to do so as soon as possible, and I reiterate my repeated calls for the remaining 14 States with SQPs based on the original standard text to amend or rescind them as soon as possible. Let me assure you that I will continue to use my good offices to strengthen the indispensable legal framework on which the continued peaceful uses of nuclear science and technology rest.

    The IAEA continues to monitor the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea’s nuclear programme.

    The Agency has observed that the 5MW(e) reactor at Yongbyon resumed operation in mid-October 2024, following a shutdown period of approximately 60 days. This shutdown is assessed to be of sufficient length to refuel the reactor and start its seventh operational cycle. Strong indicators of preparations for a new reprocessing campaign, including the operation of the steam plant serving the Radiochemical Laboratory, have been observed.

    In late-January 2025, the DPRK released photographs of General Secretary Kim Jong Un visiting “the nuclear material production base and the Nuclear Weapons Institute”. The depicted centrifuge cascades and infrastructure are consistent with the layout of a centrifuge enrichment facility and with the structure of the Yongbyon Uranium Enrichment Plant. This development follows the DPRK’s publication in September 2024 of photographs of an undeclared enrichment facility at the Kangson Complex. The undeclared enrichment facilities at both Kangson and Yongbyon, combined with General Secretary Kim’s call for “overfulfilling the plan for producing weapons-grade nuclear materials,” are of serious concern. There are indications that the uranium enrichment plants at Kangson and Yongbyon continue to operate, and there are indications that the light water reactor (LWR) at Yongbyon continues to operate. Additions to the support infrastructure have been observed adjacent to the LWR.

    There were no indications of significant changes at the Nuclear Test Site at Punggye-ri, which remains prepared to support a nuclear test.

    The continuation and further development of the DPRK’s nuclear programme are clear violations of relevant UN Security Council resolutions and are deeply regrettable. I call upon the DPRK to comply fully with its obligations under relevant UN Security Council resolutions, to cooperate promptly with the Agency in the full and effective implementation of its NPT Safeguards Agreement and to resolve all outstanding issues, especially those that have arisen during the absence of Agency inspectors from the country. The Agency continues to maintain its enhanced readiness to play its essential role in verifying the DPRK’s nuclear programme.

    Concerning the safety of the LWR, we lack the necessary information to make an assessment. Safety should always be a paramount consideration when operating a reactor. Nuclear safety is a sovereign responsibility of the State and the IAEA supports the States in this area.

    Following the change of Government in the Syrian Arab Republic towards the end of 2024, I have written to the new Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates. I requested cooperation with the Agency to enable us to fulfill our obligation to verify nuclear material and facilities under Syria’s safeguards agreement. I conveyed the importance of continuing and reinforcing cooperation between Syria and the Agency to address unresolved issues. Clarifying these issues remains essential to Syria demonstrating its commitment to nuclear non-proliferation and international peace and security.

    I hope to be able to engage with the new government soon. Bringing total clarity to the situation regarding past activities in this field in Syria is indispensable to the realization of current efforts to modernize the country and put it on a firm path to peace and development.

    In April and May, the IAEA will participate in the Third Preparatory Meeting for the 2026 Review Conference of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) in New York.

    Madame Chairperson,

    The IAEA’s Marie Sklodowska‑Curie Fellowship Programme has been expanding the talent base for the nuclear field since 2020 with 760 female students and graduates from 121 Member States so far having been supported in studying in 72 countries. In the current, fifth cycle, we selected 200 candidates from 109 countries. I would like to thank Member States that have contributed so far. For this programme to continue accepting new fellowship candidates it urgently needs further support. I ask those who can, to support this endeavor. 

    This year, we have planned three Lise Meitner Programme cohorts, in Argentina, Canada and Japan. They are focused on nuclear power, advanced nuclear technologies and research reactors.

    I am happy to report that we have reached parity, women now make up half the staff in the professional and higher categories. This is up from about 30% when I took office in 2019.

    I thank Member States who have paid their regular budget contributions, including some who paid in advance. It is important that all Member States pay their contributions in a timely manner. This will ensure liquidity of the regular budget throughout the year, allowing the Agency to carry out its activities effectively.

    You recently received for your consideration my proposed programme and budget for the 2026-2027 biennium.

    It has been prepared with due consideration of the constraints of the prevailing financial environment. Despite increasing demands and higher operational costs, I have decided for the third time in a row to propose a zero real growth budget. The proposal maintains balance among the different programmes and emphasises my commitment to ensuring our resources are managed with discipline, efficiency and restraint so that we maximize the impact of the Agency’s work.

    This being our first Board meeting of 2025, I want to conclude by saying that I look forward to making 2025 a successful year in which the IAEA benefits all Member States as we advance our common goals of peace and development.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Director General Grossi’s Statement to UNSC on Situation in Iran

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) –

    Early this morning, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) was informed of the military operation launched by Israel which includes attacks on nuclear facilities in the Islamic Republic of Iran.

    As I reported this morning to the IAEA Board of Governors, we have been in permanent contact with the Iran Nuclear Regulatory Authority, to ascertain the status of relevant nuclear facilities and to assess any wider impacts on nuclear safety and security.

    Iran has confirmed that at present, only the Natanz Fuel Enrichment Plant site has been attacked in today’s strikes. This facility contains the Fuel Enrichment Plant and the Pilot Fuel Enrichment Plant.

    At Natanz, the above-ground part of the Pilot Fuel Enrichment Plant, where Iran was producing uranium enriched up to 60% U-235, has been destroyed.

    Electricity infrastructure at the facility (electrical sub-station, main electric power supply building, emergency power supply and back-up generators) has been destroyed.

    There is no indication of a physical attack on the underground cascade hall containing part of the Pilot Fuel Enrichment Plant and the main Fuel Enrichment Plant. However, the loss of power to the cascade hall may have damaged the centrifuges there.

    The level of radioactivity outside the Natanz site has remained unchanged and at normal levels indicating no external radiological impact to the population or the environment from this event.

    However, due to the impacts, there is radiological and chemical contamination inside the facilities in Natanz. The type of radiation present inside the facility, primarily alpha particles, is manageable with appropriate radiation protection measures.

    At present, the Iranian authorities are informing us of attacks on the other facilities, the Fordow Fuel Enrichment Plant; and Esfahan site, where a fuel plate fabrication plant, a fuel manufacturing plant, a uranium conversion facility and an enriched UO2 powder plant are located. However I have to inform that at this moment we do not have enough information beyond indicating that military activity has been taking place around these facilities as well which initially had not been part of military operation.

    All these developments are deeply concerning. I have repeatedly stated that nuclear facilities must never be attacked, regardless of the context or circumstances, as it could harm both people and the environment.  Such attacks have serious implications for nuclear safety, security and safeguards, as well as regional and international peace and security.

    In this regard, the IAEA recalls the numerous General Conference resolutions on the topic of military attacks against nuclear facilities, in particular, GC(XXIX)/RES/444 and GC(XXXIV)/RES/533, which provide, inter alia, that “any armed attack on and threat against nuclear facilities devoted to peaceful purposes constitutes a violation of the principles of the United Nations Charter, international law and the Statute of the Agency”. 

    Furthermore, the IAEA has consistently underlined that “armed attacks on nuclear facilities could result in radioactive releases with grave consequences within and beyond the boundaries of the State which has been attacked”, as was stated in GC(XXXIV)/RES/533.

    As Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency, and consistent with the objectives of the IAEA under the IAEA Statute, I call on all parties to exercise maximum restraint to avoid further escalation. I reiterate that any military action that jeopardizes the safety and security of nuclear facilities risks grave consequences for the people of Iran, the region, and beyond.

    Madame Under Secretary General evoked that yesterday, the Board of Governors of the IAEA adopted an important resolution on Iran’s safeguards obligations. In addition to this, the Board resolution stressed its support for a diplomatic solution to the problems posed by the Iranian nuclear programme.

    The IAEA continues to monitor the situation closely.  Our Incident and Emergency Center (IEC) has maintained continuous contact with Iranian authorities from the onset of the attack, regularly confirming the status of the facilities and will continue to do so in the coming days. Additionally, we have established a task force comprising several senior staff members to monitor the situation closely over the next few days, and they will be available 24/7at the disposal of the UNSC.

    The IAEA stands ready to provide technical assistance, and remains committed to its nuclear safety, security and safeguards mandate in all circumstances. I stand ready to engage with all relevant parties to help ensure the protection of nuclear facilities and the continued peaceful use of nuclear technology in accordance with the Agency mandate, including, deploying Agency nuclear security and safety experts (in addition to our safeguards inspectors in Iran) wherever necessary to ensure that nuclear installations are fully protected and continue to be used exclusively for peaceful purposes.

    As I informed today the IAEA Board of Governors, I have indicated to the respective authorities my readiness to travel at the earliest to assess the situation and ensure safety, security and non-proliferation in Iran.

    I have also been in contact with our inspectors in Iran and Israel. The safety of our staff is of paramount importance. All necessary actions are being taken to ensure they are not harmed.

    Despite the current military actions and heightened tensions, it is clear that the only sustainable path forward—for Iran, for Israel, the entire region, and the international community—is one grounded in dialogue and diplomacy to ensure peace, stability, and cooperation. 

    The International Atomic Energy Agency, as the International technical institution entrusted with overseeing the peaceful use of nuclear energy, remains a unique and vital forum for dialogue, especially now. 

    In accordance with its Statute and longstanding mandate, the IAEA provides the framework and natural platform where facts prevail over rhetoric and where engagement can replace escalation. 

    I reaffirm the Agency’s readiness to facilitate technical discussions and support efforts that promote transparency, safety, security and the peaceful resolution of nuclear-related issues in Iran.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Statement on the Situation in Iran

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) –

    IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi. (Photo: D. Calma/IAEA)

    Early this morning, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) was informed of the military operation launched by Israel which includes attacks on nuclear facilities in the Islamic Republic of Iran.

    We are currently in contact with the Iranian nuclear safety authorities to ascertain the status of relevant nuclear facilities and to assess any wider impacts on nuclear safety and security. At present, the competent Iranian authorities have confirmed that the Natanz enrichment site has been impacted and that there are no elevated radiation levels. They have also reported that at present the Esfahan and Fordow sites have not been impacted.

    This development is deeply concerning. I have repeatedly stated that nuclear facilities must never be attacked, regardless of the context or circumstances, as it could harm both people and the environment.  Such attacks have serious implications for nuclear safety, security and safeguards, as well as regional and international peace and security.

    In this regard, the IAEA recalls the numerous General Conference resolutions on the topic of military attacks against nuclear facilities, in particular, GC(XXIX)/RES/444 and GC(XXXIV)/RES/533, which provide, inter alia, that “any armed attack on and threat against nuclear facilities devoted to peaceful purposes constitutes a violation of the principles of the United Nations Charter, international law and the Statute of the Agency”. 

    Furthermore, the IAEA has consistently underlined that “armed attacks on nuclear facilities could result in radioactive releases with grave consequences within and beyond the boundaries of the State which has been attacked”, as was stated in GC(XXXIV)/RES/533.

    As Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency, and consistent with the objectives of the IAEA under the IAEA Statute, I call on all parties to exercise maximum restraint to avoid further escalation. I reiterate that any military action that jeopardizes the safety and security of nuclear facilities risks grave consequences for the people of Iran, the region, and beyond.

    Yesterday, the Board of Governors adopted an important resolution on Iran’s safeguards obligations. In addition to this, the Board resolution stressed its support for a diplomatic solution to the problems posed by the Iranian nuclear programme.

    The IAEA continues to monitor the situation closely, stands ready to provide technical assistance, and remains committed to its nuclear safety, security and safeguards mandate in all circumstances. I stand ready to engage with all relevant parties to help ensure the protection of nuclear facilities and the continued peaceful use of nuclear technology in accordance with the Agency mandate, including, deploying Agency nuclear security and safety experts (in addition to our safeguards inspectors in Iran) wherever necessary to ensure that nuclear installations are fully protected and continue to be used exclusively for peaceful purposes.

    I wish to inform the Board that I have indicated to the respective authorities my readiness to travel at the earliest to assess the situation and ensure safety, security and non-proliferation in Iran.

    I have also been in contact with our inspectors in Iran and Israel. The safety of our staff is of paramount importance. All necessary actions are being taken to ensure they are not harmed.

    Despite the current military actions and heightened tensions, it is clear that the only sustainable path forward—for Iran, for Israel, the entire region, and the international community—is one grounded in dialogue and diplomacy to ensure peace, stability, and cooperation. 

    The International Atomic Energy Agency, as the international technical institution entrusted with overseeing the peaceful use of nuclear energy, remains the unique and vital forum for dialogue, especially now. 

    In accordance with its Statute and longstanding mandate, the IAEA provides the framework and natural platform where facts prevail over rhetoric and where engagement can replace escalation. 

    I reaffirm the Agency’s readiness to facilitate technical discussions and support efforts that promote transparency, safety, security and the peaceful resolution of nuclear-related issues in Iran.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Update 296 – IAEA Director General Statement on Situation in Ukraine

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) –

    Nuclear safety remains precarious at Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) and its six reactors cannot be restarted as long as the military conflict continues to jeopardize the situation at the site, Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi told IAEA Member States this week.

    Addressing the regular June meeting of the Board of Governors, the Director General briefed them about his 12th mission to Ukraine during the current conflict, which took place in early June, followed by a visit to Russia, which also focused on nuclear safety and security at the ZNPP.

    Addressing the Board meeting, he highlighted “the extremely vulnerable” status of the off-site power supply at the site, which for more than a month now has relied on one single power line for the electricity it needs to cool its reactors and spent fuel. Before the conflict, Europe’s largest nuclear power plant (NPP) had access to ten power lines.

    In addition, Director General Grossi noted that the ZNPP reactors’ “reliance on groundwater for cooling remains an interim solution, whilst in their cold shutdown state”.  The plant has depended on 11 groundwater wells since the downstream Kakhovka dam was destroyed two years ago.

    In their meeting in Kyiv on 3 June, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy “made a point to recognize the importance of the IAEA’s permanent presence” at the ZNPP, the Director General told the Board, adding he had assured President Zelenskyy of the IAEA’s continued commitment to Ukraine’s nuclear safety and to helping it rebuild its energy infrastructure.

    The Director General added: “As the military conflict moves further into its fourth year, Ukraine needs support, and the IAEA is providing it … it is also crucial to prepare for the reconstruction phase.”

    At the ZNPP, the IAEA team based there has held several meetings with the ZNPP to discuss the site’s electrical system and also visited its 750 kilovolt (kV) switchyard.

    Apart from the sole remaining 330 kV back-up line that was disconnected due to military activities on 7 May, the site does not know the current condition of its five other 330 kV lines, which remain unavailable after they were damaged outside of the ZNPP area early in the conflict.

    The ZNPP said maintenance work was conducted at one of the four 750 kV power lines that was originally connected to the ZNPP before being damaged in 2022. Since the conflict, the ZNPP had lost access to three of its 750 kV lines.

    In addition, the ZNPP informed the IAEA about a planned project to pump water into the cooling pond from the Dnipro River in order to maintain a water level that is sufficient to cool one operating reactor initially, followed by a second unit, until the pond reaches its full capacity. According to the site, a pumping station will be constructed to supply water directly to the cooling pond until the plant can rebuild the Kakhovka dam.

    The exact location of the pumping station cannot yet be determined, as it depends on the security conditions, the ZNPP said, adding the project would only start once military activities cease.

    Separately this week, the IAEA team was informed that that the Russian regulator, Rostekhnadzor, over the next two weeks will perform pre-licensing inspection activities at ZNPP reactor units 1 and 2, whose current operational licences issued by Ukraine are due to expire in December this year and in February 2026, respectively. The IAEA team has requested to observe these activities and will seek additional information regarding items such as the scope of these undertakings and any criteria for assessing nuclear safety.

    Over the past several weeks, the IAEA team has also been monitoring a leak in one reactor unit’s essential service water system which delivers cooling water to the safety systems. The leak – which can occur in NPPs without any significant safety consequences – was discovered during maintenance and the team was informed that it was caused by corrosion. It has since been repaired.

    The IAEA team reported hearing military activities on most days over the past weeks, at varying distances away from the ZNPP including last week’s purported drone attack on the site’s training centre.

    The Khmelnytskyy, Rivne and the South Ukraine NPPs are continuing to operate amid the problems caused by the conflict. Three of their nine operating reactor units are still undergoing planned outages for refuelling and maintenance. The IAEA teams at these plants and the Chornobyl sites have continued to report on – and be informed about – nearby military activities, including drones observed flying nearby. Last Monday, the IAEA teams at Khmelnytskyy and Rivne were required to shelter.

    Over the past two weeks, the IAEA teams based at these four sites have all rotated.

    As part of the IAEA’s assistance programme to support nuclear safety and security in Ukraine, the Chornobyl site received essential items to improve staff living conditions and the National Scientific Centre Institute of Metrology received personal radiation detectors.

    These deliveries were funded by Austria, Belgium, France and Norway and brought the total number of IAEA-coordinated deliveries since the start of the armed conflict to 140.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: IAEA and FAO Conduct First Atoms4Food Assessment Mission to Burkina Faso

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) –

    The joint IAEA and FAO Assessment Mission team examine new rice varieties during the first Atoms4Food Initiative Assessment Mission in Burkina Faso. (Photo: Victor Owino/IAEA)

    In a critical step toward addressing food insecurity in West Africa, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations have launched their first joint Atoms4Food Initiative Assessment Mission in Burkina Faso. 

    This mission aims to identify key gaps and opportunities for delivering targeted technical support to Burkina Faso for food and agriculture in a country where an estimated 3.5 million people—nearly 20% of the population—are facing food insecurity. By leveraging nuclear science and technology, Atoms4Food seeks to bolster agricultural resilience and agrifood systems in one of the region’s most vulnerable nations.

    The mission, conducted from 26 May to 1 June, assessed how nuclear and related technologies are being used in Burkina Faso to address challenges in enhancing crop production, improving soil quality and in animal production and health, as well as human nutrition.

    The Atoms4Food Initiative was launched jointly by IAEA and FAO in 2023 to help boost food security and tackle growing hunger around the world. Atoms4Food will support countries to use innovative nuclear techniques such as sterile insect technique and plant mutation breeding to enhance agricultural productivity, ensure food safety, improve nutrition and adapt agrifood systems to the challenges of climate change. Almost €9 million has been pledged by IAEA donor countries and private companies to the initiative so far.

    As part of the Atoms4Food initiative, Assessment Missions are used to evaluate the specific needs and priorities of participating countries and identify critical gaps and opportunities where nuclear science and technology can offer impactful solutions. Based on the findings, tailored and country-specific solutions will be offered.

    Burkina Faso is one of 29 countries who have so far requested to receive support under Atoms4Food, with more expected this year. Alongside Benin, Pakistan, Peru and Türkiye, Burkina Faso was among the first countries to request an Atoms4Food Assessment Mission in 2025.

    A large proportion of Burkina Faso’s population still live in poverty and inequality.  Food insecurity has been compounded by rapid population growth, gender inequality and low levels of educational attainment. In addition, currently, 50% of rice consumed in Burkina Faso is imported. The government aims to achieve food sovereignty by producing sufficient rice domestically to reduce reliance on imports.

    “Hunger and malnutrition are on the rise globally, and Burkina Faso is particularly vulnerable to this growing challenge,” said IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi. “This first Atoms4Food assessment mission marks a significant milestone in our collective efforts to harness the power of nuclear science to enhance food security. As the Atoms4Food Initiative expands worldwide, we are committed to delivering tangible, sustainable solutions to reduce hunger and malnutrition.”

    The mission was conducted by a team of ten international experts in the areas of crop production, soil and water management, animal production and health and human nutrition. During the mission, the team held high-level meetings with the Burkina Faso Ministries of Agriculture, Health and Environment and conducted site visits to laboratories including the animal health laboratory and crop breeding facility at the Institute of Environment and Agricultural Research, the crop genetics and nutrition laboratories at the University Joseph Ki-Zerbo, and the bull station of the Ministry of Agriculture in Loumbila.

    “The Government of Burkina Faso is striving to achieve food security and sovereignty, to supply the country’s population with sufficient, affordable, nutritious and safe food, while strengthening the sustainability of the agrifood systems value-chain,” said Dongxin Feng, Director of the Joint FAO/IAEA Centre for Nuclear Techniques in Food and Agriculture and head of the mission to Burkina Faso. “Though much needs to be done, our mission found strong dedication and commitment from the Government in developing climate-resilient strategies for crops, such as rice, potato, sorghum and mango, strengthening sustainable livestock production of cattle, small ruminants and local poultry, as well as reducing malnutrition among infants and children, while considering the linkages with food safety.”

    The Assessment Mission will deliver an integrated Assessment Report with concrete recommendations on areas for intervention under the Atoms4Food Initiative. This will help develop a National Action Plan in order to scale up the joint efforts made by the two organizations in the past decades, which will include expanding partnership and resource mobilization. “Our priority now is to deliver a concrete mission report with actionable recommendations that will support the development of the National Action Plan aimed at improving the country’s long term food security,” Feng added.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Led by IAEA, International Team Samples Treated Water under Additional Measures at Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) –

    The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) led a team of international experts to collect samples today of ALPS treated water stored at Japan’s Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station (FDNPS) prior to the water’s dilution with seawater and its discharge to the sea.

    The sampling mission is the fourth under the additional measures, which focus on expanding international participation and transparency. These measures permit third parties to independently verify that water discharge which Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings (TEPCO) – operator of the FDNPS – began in August 2023 continues to be consistent with international safety standards.

    International experts from Belgium, the People’s Republic of China, the Republic of Korea, the Russian Federation and Switzerland, along with IAEA staff, conducted hands-on sampling of the water stored in tanks designated for the 14th batch of ALPS-treated water to be discharged.

    The IAEA initiated the first practical steps of the additional measures in October last year. This fourth mission follows the mission in April which sampled diluted water just prior to its discharge into the sea, and a mission in February when IAEA Director General Grossi presided over the additional measures to  collect seawater samples in the vicinity of FDNPS.

    The samples collected in today’s mission will be analysed by the participating laboratories – the Belgian Nuclear Research Centre, the China Institute of Atomic Energy, the Korean Institute for Nuclear Safety, the Institute for Problems of Environmental Monitoring of the Research and Production Association “Typhoon” in Russia and the Spiez Laboratory in Switzerland – as well as by the IAEA’s laboratory and TEPCO in Japan. All laboratories are members of the IAEA’s Analytical Laboratories for the Measurement of Environmental Radioactivity (ALMERA) network, which are selected for their high level of expertise and analytical proficiency.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: IAEA and MedAccess Launch Partnership to Expand Access to Cancer Care

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) –

    A person receiving radiotherapy treatment for liver cancer in Mumbai, India. (Photo: IAEA)

    The IAEA and UK social enterprise MedAccess have launched a new partnership under the Rays of Hope: Cancer Care for All initiative. This collaboration will focus on advancing innovative financing solutions to improve access to affordable, high-quality radiation medicine services in low- and middle-income countries.

    “Through this partnership with MedAccess under the framework of the Rays of Hope initiative, we are unlocking new pathways to accelerate access to life-saving cancer care” said IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi during the partnership signing ceremony on Monday. “By combining financial innovation with technical expertise, we are helping countries turn ambition into action”.

    “Innovative financing models have an important role in enabling countries to invest in radiotherapy equipment and services for cancer patients,” MedAccess CEO Michael Anderson said. “Rays of Hope provides a platform to evaluate and test such models to accelerate access to reliable radiation therapy.”

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Nuclear Techniques Make Waves at UN Ocean Conference

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) –

    IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi during the high-level event on combatting marine pollution at the United Nations Conference in Nice, France  (Photo: E. McDonald/IAEA)

    The IAEA highlighted the role of nuclear science in protecting our oceans at the 2025 United Nations Oceans Conference held last week in Nice, France.

    Co-hosted by France and Costa Rica, the conference convened over 10,000 participants, including scientists, diplomats and politicians, to address the triple planetary crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution. It aimed to accelerate progress towards SDG14, Life Below Water, through innovative technologies and action. The IAEA took center stage at the event to share how nuclear technology is boosting ocean health and tackling critical threats such as marine plastic pollution.

    The IAEA organized and participated in more than a dozen events at the conference, and on research vessels in the Port of Nice. Experts from the IAEA’s Marine Environment Laboratories in Monaco highlighted how isotopic tools can help monitor and reduce plastic pollution in the ocean.

    Plastic waste is not only infiltrating our oceans, but also the human body in the form of microplastics. Without urgent action, the amount of plastic entering the ocean each year could reach 37 million metric tons by 2040, according to UN estimates, becoming a threat to marine and human life.

    Plastic pollution featured prominently throughout the conference, with a focus on the ongoing negotiations for the development of an internationally legally binding instrument to end plastic pollution, including in the marine environment. The negotiations for the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)-led treaty are expected to conclude later this year in Geneva, following five previous sessions.

    At the conference, IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi spoke about the IAEA’s work to combat plastic pollution and emphasized the need to share data data between scientists, policymakers and environmental agencies.

    “Four years ago, at the last UN Ocean Conference, I announced NUTEC Plastics, an initiative that gives countries the tools they need to address the issue of marine microplastic pollution. Today, I am delighted to report that we have made significant progress with 99 countries involved, and we have been equipping more than 100 Member State laboratories all over the world. We are building the capacity that countries need to translate data into policies and action.”

    NUTEC Plastics is an IAEA flagship initiative that supports countries in researching microplastics and using nuclear techniques to improve recycling techniques.

    Director of the IAEA Marine Environment Laboratories Florence Descroix-Comanducci (left), highlighted the work of the IAEA’s Marine environment laboratories at the 2025 UN Ocean Conference in France (Photo: E.McDonald/IAEA)

    “Nuclear and isotopic techniques add incredible value to boost ocean health,” said Florence Descroix-Comanducci, Director of the IAEA Marine Environment Laboratories. “Our laboratories in Monaco support Member States in the implementation and use of these techniques, and to develop harmonized methods to generate globally comparable data, especially in light of the forthcoming plastics treaty.”

    At events organized by the IAEA, panelists highlighted the need to address the top of the plastic life cycle to prevent further pollution, employing a “source to sea approach” to reduce marine litter and, by extension, marine plastic pollution. “Our metrics on marine litter are moving in the right direction,” said Martin Adams, Head of the Environment Department at the European Environment Agency. “Timely and relevant data are increasingly important, but we don’t need to know everything. We just need to know enough to act.” Other events organized by the IAEA focused on ocean-based carbon dioxide removal, ocean acidification, IAEA support for Small Island Developing States (SIDS), and nuclear energy and ocean health.

    The IAEA’s unique expertise in nuclear applications is contributing to both mitigations, by using radiation technology for waste recycling, and monitoring, by using isotopic techniques to monitor and assess impacts of microplastic pollution. Through the NUTEC Plastics initiative, 99 countries are participating in marine monitoring of microplastics, and 52 around the world are developing innovative recycling technology.

    The International High-Level Forum on NUTEC Plastics, organized by the IAEA on 25–26 November 2025, in Manila, Philippines, will highlight the progress achieved to date, address current challenges, and chart course to strengthen regional and international cooperation in the sustainable management of plastic waste through innovative nuclear technologies.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: IAEA to Host Eighth Review Meeting of the Joint Convention

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) –

    The Eighth Review Meeting of the Contracting Parties to the Joint Convention on the Safety of Spent Fuel Management and on the Safety of Radioactive Waste Management (the Joint Convention) will be held at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in the M-Building of the Vienna International Centre (VIC) from 17 to 28 March. 

    IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi will address the opening plenary session on 17 March at 09:00 CET. Jean-Luc Lachaume, Commissioner of the French Authority for Nuclear Safety and Radiation Protection, will preside over the Eighth Review Meeting and will open the proceedings.   

    In force since 2001, the Joint Convention seeks to achieve and maintain a high level of worldwide safety in spent fuel and radioactive waste management. Currently, of the 180 IAEA Member States, 90 are party to the Convention. At Review Meetings held every three years, the Contracting Parties to the Joint Convention present and discuss national reports on the implementation of obligations under the Convention. 

    The agenda for the two-week meeting also includes a topical session on knowledge management related to long term management of disused sealed radioactive sources, radioactive waste and spent fuel, and a discussion of Contracting Parties’ proposals for enhancing the review process. 

    Press Opportunities 

    Journalists are invited to attend: 

    • and the part of the closing session where the Contracting Parties will adopt a Summary Report – currently foreseen to be held in the afternoon of 28 March. For the exact timing of the closing session, please contact press@iaea.org. 

    Both sessions will be streamed live and will take place in Boardroom B/M1 in M Building of the VIC. Photos will also be made available at the IAEA Flickr page. 

    Accreditation 

    All journalists interested in covering the meeting in person – including those with permanent accreditation – are requested to inform the IAEA Press Office of their plans. Journalists without permanent accreditation must send copies of their passport and press ID to the IAEA Press Office.  

    We encourage those journalists who do not yet have permanent accreditation to request it at UNIS Vienna.  

    Please plan your arrival to allow sufficient time to pass through the VIC security check.  

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Media Invited to Attend IAEA’s International Stakeholder Engagement Conference for Nuclear Power Programmes

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) –

    The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) will host the International Conference on Stakeholder Engagement for Nuclear Power Programmes next week, providing a global platform to exchange good practices, experiences, challenges and lessons learned related to stakeholder engagement for nuclear power programmes.

    The conference, which is open to media, will take place from 26 to 30 May at the IAEA in the M-Building of the Vienna International Centre (VIC). The conference will also be livestreamed.

    A dialogue between IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi and Robert Stone, director of the documentary Pandora’s Promise, will open the conference on Monday, 26 May, at 10:00. Isabelle Boemeke, nuclear energy influencer, will moderate the session.

    Over 500 participants from about 80 countries and 13 international organizations are registered to participate in the event. 

    Stakeholder engagement is an essential part of nuclear power programmes. It aims to enhance public confidence, strengthen communication and support informed decision making through strong, long-term relationships with stakeholders. The conference will cover development and implementation of stakeholder engagement strategies; managing changing landscapes; crisis communication and emergency preparedness; outreach and media relations. A series of side events will highlight the roles of private philanthropy, gender perceptions and art in shaping stakeholder engagement. See the full programme here.

    Nuclear Communities and Mayors in Focus, a unique platform for open dialogue and the exchange of ideas among municipal leaders from around the world, will take place in the afternoon of Tuesday, 27 May. A family photo will be taken at 13:30.

    The conference will also feature art submitted for the contest, NuclearPop! Redefining Nuclear Energy in Popular Culture, in the Rotunda of the VIC.

    Accreditation

    All journalists – including those with permanent accreditation to the Vienna International Centre (VIC) – are requested to inform the IAEA Press Office of their plans to attend the conference in person. Journalists without permanent accreditation to the VIC must send copies of their passport and press ID to press@iaea.org by 12:00 CEST on Friday, 23 May.

    Journalists who do not yet have permanent accreditation are encouraged to request it at UNIS Vienna.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Press Arrangements for IAEA Board of Governors Meeting, 9-13 June 2025

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) –

    The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Board of Governors will convene its regular June meeting at the Agency’s headquarters at 10:00 CEST on Monday, 9 June, in Board Room C, Building C, 4th floor, in the Vienna International Centre (VIC). 

    Board discussions are expected to include, among others: Annual Report for 2024; strengthening of the Agency’s technical cooperation activities: Technical Cooperation Report for 2024; Report of the Programme and Budget Committee; verification and monitoring in the Islamic Republic of Iran in light of United Nations Security Council resolution 2231 (2015); staff of the Department of Safeguards to be used as Agency inspectors; Safeguards Implementation Report for 2024; application of safeguards in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea; implementation of the NPT Safeguards Agreement in the Syrian Arab Republic; NPT Safeguards Agreement with the Islamic Republic of Iran; nuclear safety, security and safeguards in Ukraine; transfer of the nuclear materials in the context of AUKUS and its safeguards in all aspects under the NPT; designation of members to serve on the Board in 2025–2026; provisional agenda for the 69th regular session of the General Conference; restoration of the sovereign equality of Member States in the IAEA; and representation of other organizations at the 69th regular session of the General Conference.

    The Board of Governors meeting is closed to the press. 

    IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi will open the meeting with an introductory statement, which will be released to journalists after delivery and posted on the IAEA website.  

    Press Conference 

    Director General Grossi is expected to hold a press conference at 12:30 CEST on Monday, 9 June, in the Press Room of the M building. 

    A live video stream of the press conference will be available. The IAEA will provide video footage of the press conference and the Director General’s opening statement here and will make photos available on Flickr.  

    Photo Opportunity 

    There will be a photo opportunity with the IAEA Director General and the Chair of the Board, Ambassador Matilda Aku Alomatu Osei-Agyeman of Ghana, before the start of the Board meeting, on 9 June at 10:00 CEST in Board Room C, in the C building in the VIC. 

    Press Working Area 

    The Press Room of the M building’s ground floor will be available as a press working area, starting from 09:00 CEST on 9 June.

    Accreditation

    All journalists interested in covering the meeting in person – including those with permanent accreditation – are requested to inform the IAEA Press Office of their plans. Journalists without permanent accreditation must send copies of their passport and press ID to the IAEA Press Office by 14:00 CEST on Friday, 6 June. 

    We encourage those journalists who do not yet have permanent accreditation to request it at UNIS Vienna. 

    Please plan your arrival to allow sufficient time to pass through the VIC security check. 

    The time for the press conference was updated from an earlier version. 

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Update: Press Arrangements for IAEA Board of Governors Meeting, 9-13 June 2025

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) –

    Update: IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi is expected to hold a press conference at 12:30 CEST on Monday, 9 June, in the Press Room of the M building. 

    A live video stream of the press conference will be available. The IAEA will provide video footage of the press conference and the Director General’s opening Board of Governor’s statement here and will make photos available on Flickr.  

    For all information about the press arrangements for IAEA Board of Governors Meeting, 9-13 June 2025 please see here.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Press Arrangements for IAEA Board of Governors Meeting, 16 June 2025

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) –

    The IAEA Board of Governors will convene a meeting at the Agency’s headquarters starting at 10:00 CEST on Monday, 16 June, in Board Room C, Building C, 4th floor, in the Vienna International Centre (VIC).

    The meeting is convened by the Chair of the Board following a request from the Permanent Mission of the Russian Federation for “an urgent session of the IAEA Board of Governors on the matter related to the Israeli attacks against the Iranian nuclear facilities that are under the IAEA safeguards”.

    The Board of Governors meeting is closed to the press.

    Photo Opportunity 

    There will be a photo opportunity with the IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi and the Chair of the Board, Ambassador Matilda Aku Alomatu Osei-Agyeman of Ghana, before the start of the Board meeting, on 16 June at 10:00 CEST in Board Room C, in the C building in the VIC. 

    Accreditation and Press Working Area:

    The Press Room on the M-Building’s ground floor will be available as a press working area starting from 9:00 CEST on 16 June.

    Journalists are requested to register with the Press Office by 08:00 CEST on Monday, 16 June. Please email press@iaea.org.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi returns to Beijing after attending 2nd China-Central Asia Summit 2025-06-18 17:47:11 Chinese President Xi Jinping returned to Beijing on Wednesday after attending the second China-Central Asia Summit in Astana of Kazakhstan.

    Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense

      BEIJING, June 18 (Xinhua) — Chinese President Xi Jinping returned to Beijing on Wednesday after attending the second China-Central Asia Summit in Astana of Kazakhstan.

      Xi’s entourage, including Cai Qi, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and director of the General Office of the CPC Central Committee, and Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and foreign minister, returned by the same flight.

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    MIL OSI China News –

  • INS Arnala, India’s first indigenous anti-submarine shallow water craft, commissioned into Navy

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    In a major boost to India’s coastal defence capabilities, the Indian Navy on Wednesday commissioned INS Arnala, the country’s first indigenously designed and built Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC), at the Naval Dockyard in Visakhapatnam. Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan presided over the commissioning ceremony.

    “INS Arnala – the pioneering Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft – proudly joins the Indian Navy today, 18 June 2025, at the Naval Dockyard, Visakhapatnam,” the Indian Navy said in a statement.

    Built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata, and delivered on 8 May at L&T Shipyard in Kattupalli under a public-private partnership, INS Arnala is the first in a series of eight ASW-SWCs being developed to strengthen India’s coastal defence, according to a previous statement from the Ministry of Defence.

    The 77-metre-long vessel, named after the historic Arnala Fort off Vasai, Maharashtra, is equipped with advanced underwater surveillance systems and mine-laying capabilities. It is designed for operations in shallow waters and is the largest Indian naval warship propelled by a diesel engine–waterjet combination.

    According to the Ministry of Defence (MoD), the ship has been designed for underwater surveillance, search and rescue operations, and Low Intensity Maritime Operations (LIMO).

    The ship’s crest features a stylised auger shell, symbolising resilience and vigilance in hostile environments, while its motto, Arnave Shauryam – “Valour in the Ocean” – reflects the courage of its crew.

    The Defence Ministry also said that the induction of ASW-SWC ships would significantly enhance the Indian Navy’s shallow water anti-submarine warfare capabilities in coastal regions. It marks another milestone in the Navy’s drive for indigenous shipbuilding and the Government’s vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’, with over 80 per cent indigenous content.

    Notably, INS Arnala was delivered to the Navy during Operation Sindoor, at a time of heightened tensions, underscoring the Navy’s operational readiness and indigenous production capability.

    ANI

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Your Privacy, Secured: How Galaxy AI Protects Privacy with Samsung Knox Vault

    Source: Samsung

     
    Galaxy AI is built to understand what you need before you even ask, whether that’s suggesting a change in your routine or pulling up just the right information at the right time.
     
    This level of personalization can be incredibly helpful, but the more your phone knows, the more there is to protect. So, what’s keeping all that personal data secure?
     
    Samsung believes there is no privacy without strong security. That’s why every Galaxy device is protected from the chip up by a multi-layered approach, which includes on-device personalization, user-controlled cloud processing, and ecosystem-wide protection through Samsung Knox Matrix.
     
    At the core of this system is Samsung Knox Vault, the company’s hardware-based solution for safeguarding your most sensitive information.
     
    Secured at the Hardware Level
    Most mobile devices rely solely on software to protect sensitive data. Galaxy devices go further.
     
    Knox Vault is a hardware-level security solution that creates a physical barrier between your most private information and everything else. It works like a locked room inside your phone, with its own processor and memory to encrypt sensitive data, with Knox Vault securing the keys. It pairs a secure processor with dedicated memory, isolating your passwords, PINs, biometrics, as well as financial information and cryptographic keys. These are the kinds of details you don’t want anyone else to access, and Knox Vault is built to make sure they stay private. You don’t need to activate or manage it, as it’s always on, working silently in the background, keeping your data safe while you get on with your day.
     
    This is particularly crucial in the age of AI as user concerns are expanding from traditional cybersecurity threats, like viruses and malware, to worries over leaking personal data, such as conversations with your AI assistant. And as AI becomes part of more everyday tasks, the types of data that need protection are also expanding.
     
    For example, metadata from your most personal photos not only details the resolution and file format but also shows the exact location where the image was taken. This personal metadata is more than just files — it’s information that is deeply connected to your daily life. And in the era of AI, these types of data used to provide personalized suggestions needs to be kept private.
     
    Knox Vault helps mitigate these growing concerns by safely storing personal information in a secure, hardware-isolated environment designed to block both physical tampering and remote attacks, ensuring your data can’t be accessed without approval.
     
    Personalized AI, Protected at the Core
    Knox Vault not only provides protection for today’s threats, it also ensures your privacy as mobile experiences continue to evolve.
     
    As Galaxy AI becomes more useful, it also becomes more personal, learning how you use your device and adapting to your needs. And because these highly tailored AI experiences rely on deeply personal data, Knox Vault plays a crucial role in keeping that information private and secured.
     
    Galaxy AI ensures privacy by processing tasks directly on-device where possible, keeping data in your hands and off online servers. For example, Audio Eraser, removes background noise from videos or voice recordings without the need for any cloud-based processing — so your personal information stays private. Call Transcript operates in the same way, keeping your calls organized while ensuring personal conversations stay private by remaining on-device.
     
    Knox Vault ensures your data is protected, confidential, and secure. Building on its role in Galaxy AI as the trusted foundation for security and privacy, Knox Vault will expand across Samsung’s growing AI ecosystem as AI becomes more deeply integrated into the user experience.
     
    Knox Vault is more than a security feature, it’s Galaxy’s promise that no matter how advanced your devices become, or how much AI evolves, your privacy is secured.
     
     
     
    [1] Results may vary per video depending on sounds present in the video. Samsung Account login required. Certain types of sound can be detected such as voices, music, wind, nature, crowd and noise. The actual sound detection may vary depending on audio source, and the condition of the video. Accuracy of results is not guaranteed.
    [1] Call Transcript feature requires Samsung Account login. Call recording may not be supported in some countries. Currently available on pre-installed Samsung phones and Voice Record app. Service availability may vary by language or region. Certain languages may require language pack download. Accuracy of results is not guaranteed.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • Gadkari announces ₹3,000 annual highway pass for non-commercial vehicles

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The central government has announced the launch of FASTag-based Annual Passes for non-commercial vehicles, effective from August 15. Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari made the announcement on Wednesday, describing the initiative as a move to enable “seamless and cost-effective travel across National Highways throughout the country.”

    The annual passes, priced at ₹3,000, will be valid for either one year from the date of activation or up to 200 trips—whichever comes first.

    “In a transformative step towards hassle-free highway travel, we are introducing a FASTag-based Annual Pass priced at ₹3,000, effective from 15th August 2025,” Gadkari said in a post on X. “This pass is designed exclusively for non-commercial private vehicles such as cars, jeeps, and vans,” he added.

    The minister stated that the policy addresses longstanding concerns about toll plazas located within a 60-km radius. The introduction of a single, prepaid pass is aimed at simplifying toll payments, reducing wait times, easing congestion, and minimising disputes at toll booths.

    To facilitate the use of the new annual passes, a dedicated link for activation and renewal will be made available on the Rajmarg Yatra App and on the official websites of the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH).

    The FASTag system was first introduced in 2014 as part of the National Electronic Toll Collection (NETC) framework. It uses Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology to enable cashless toll payments and reduce bottlenecks at toll plazas.

    The Ministry had earlier announced the upcoming implementation of an ‘ANPR-FASTag-based Barrier-Less Tolling System’ at select locations. This system combines Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) technology with the existing FASTag infrastructure, allowing vehicles to pass through toll booths without stopping.

    Under the new system, tolls will be automatically deducted based on vehicle identification through high-performance ANPR cameras and FASTag readers. In cases of non-compliance, e-Notices will be issued, and repeated violations may result in FASTag suspension and other penalties under VAHAN regulations.

    (ANI)

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Rooted in Values, Ready for Impact: New Joinees Reflect on Life at Samsung

    Source: Samsung

    The latest cohort of new joiners includes professionals from across geographies, each with diverse industry backgrounds
     
    At Samsung, the journey of building the future begins the moment you walk through our doors. Each new team member who joins us brings with them a story of where they’ve been, what they’ve achieved, and the aspirations they carry forward. The New Hires Course (NHC) isn’t just an onboarding program, it’s a window into Samsung’s unique culture, values, and purpose. It sets the tone for a career that’s not just about work, but about shaping what’s next in technology and human progress.
     
    The latest cohort of new joiners includes professionals from across India and Nepal, each with diverse industry backgrounds — from finance and procurement to sales, supply chain, and brand building. As they step into Samsung, they find a place where their experiences are not only welcomed but woven into the larger tapestry of innovation.
     
    The New Hires Course isn’t just an onboarding program, it’s a window into Samsung’s unique, vibrant and inclusive culture
     
    A Culture That Feels Like Home
    Soyeon Joo, who recently joined the Sales and SCM Logistics team in Nepal, reflects on her first few days:
     
    “From the very first day, Samsung struck me as both energetic and welcoming. My colleagues were incredibly supportive — walking me through each process, answering questions, and making me feel at home. Their warmth helped me become productive faster than I expected.”
     
    She believes her multicultural perspective — shaped across Mexico, South Korea, and Nepal — will help bridge linguistic and cultural gaps between HQ and local operations. “I want to drive fresh ideas that resonate with diverse markets,” she said.
     
    This sense of inclusivity and global connection is what many new employees notice early on — a clear emphasis on people, growth, and purpose. For Roshan Acharya, who joins the SCM operations team from a business analysis background, Samsung’s culture of discipline and innovation stood out. “It’s a company with a top global presence — well-organized, efficient, and dynamic.”
     
    Bringing Experience to a Global Platform
    Many of the new hires come with over a decade of experience in leadership roles, and they see Samsung as a platform to make an even bigger impact. Manisha Luitel, who recently joined the finance function, speaks of the company as a “system-driven multinational with clear execution standards,” yet open to innovation.
     
    “I hope to add value by bringing in a strong accounting and manufacturing outlook,” she says. “With the right processes and controls, we can elevate the way we work.”
     
    For Shishir Aryal, who’s spent 10 years in procurement for Nepal’s manufacturing sector, Samsung is an opportunity to bring tested skills to a new, dynamic landscape. “I come from a completely different setup, and I’m excited to apply my learnings in line with Samsung’s global principles,” he says. “Being welcomed so warmly by HR and the team has made this transition smooth and exciting.”
     
    Aspirations That Align with Samsung’s Vision
    Samsung has always been driven by the ambition to lead — in technology, sustainability, and in how we build our teams. That means hiring individuals who are not only experts in their domain but also eager to learn and evolve.
     
    Take Ranjit Khadka, whose role in Finance includes Compliance, Treasury, and IT. He brings a deep understanding of SKU costing and wants to dive deeper into treasury functions. “I believe Samsung is the right place to innovate while being rooted in sound financial systems,” he said.
     
    Or Soyeon, who looks forward to being the cultural bridge in a multilingual, cross-functional team. Or Roshan, who wants to explore AI-driven data analysis tools and help drive planning-execution integration through data.
     
    And then there’s a spark of passion that ties all of them together — whether it’s Roshan playing table tennis, Manisha reading quietly, or Shishir engaging in adventure sports with his child. At Samsung, we believe in the whole person — not just the employee.
     
    Where Growth Meets Purpose
    Samsung’s New Hires Course doesn’t just teach the rules of the game — it helps new team members feel seen, supported, and part of something larger. It’s where cross-functional collaboration begins. It’s where ideas start to move, not in silos, but in sync.
     
    As one of the new joinees put it:
     
    “Joining Samsung felt dynamic and challenging, with a strong focus on innovation. The work environment is fast-paced and collaborative, with clear emphasis on employee development. You truly feel like part of something visionary.”
     
    At Samsung, every story matters. And with each new hire, that story only gets richer.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Securing Grangemouth’s just transition

    Source: Scottish Government

    Plan for future of the area published.

    Actions designed to attract investment to Grangemouth, support new employment, and position the area as a global leader in green energy and sustainable manufacturing have been published today.

    The Grangemouth Industrial Just Transition Plan sets out 21 actions to put Grangemouth at the forefront of green energy and benefit the local community.

    Developed in partnership with the Grangemouth Future Industry Board, which includes industry leadership, representatives of the Grangemouth workforce, local community, Falkirk Council and the Scottish and UK Governments, the regional just transition plan is the first of its kind. Actions include:  

    • delivering the £25 million Grangemouth Just Transition Fund – which delivers support for businesses currently operating at the industrial cluster as well as work to establish and attract new investment
    • creating an industrial skills offer, to ensure that the current and future workforces in the area have the right training and experience to support industry in the area 
    • developing an industry-led technical and commercial investment strategy which includes a decarbonisation pathway to secure investment for scale up 
    • establishing a Grangemouth Regulatory Hub to develop new ways of helping industry operate sustainably and efficiently

    Cabinet Secretary for Climate Action and Energy Gillian Martin said: 

    “As Scotland’s leading industrial cluster, Grangemouth has long played a vital role to our economy and bringing energy security to the country and it is only right that the area continues to help lead the way in our journey to clean, green energy. 

    “Understandably, the stopping of refining at Grangemouth, has brought uncertainty to people living and working in the area – and it is vital that we do what we can as a government to support and promote local opportunities and growth in the area.

    “The Grangemouth Industrial Just Transition Plan will act as the framework for all activity that supports Grangemouth’s transition. It has been developed with industry, the community, public sector partners, Unite the Union and the workforce to ensure it reflects the interests of the community and businesses in the area.

    “It is bolstered by measures including our ongoing support for Project Willow, the Falkirk and Grangemouth Growth Deal and a targeted skills intervention for former Petroineos workers. However, we cannot do this alone, I am calling on the UK Government to commence positive changes to existing policy that enable the deployment of future commodities like Sustainable Aviation Fuel production in Scotland.”  

    Principal of Forth Valley College Kenny MacInnes said:

    “Grangemouth plays a vital role in Scotland’s economy and is central to our journey to net zero. With our campus situated at the heart of this transition, Forth Valley College is uniquely positioned to support the businesses, workers, and communities navigating the changes ahead.

    “Our flagship £4 million Skills Transition Centre, funded through the Falkirk and Grangemouth Growth Deal, will drive innovation in skills delivery, promote inclusive growth, and align closely with evolving industry needs. It will focus on developing skills for emerging sectors while supporting the transition of key industries such as downstream petroleum, chemicals, and polymers within the Grangemouth cluster.

    “The College also remains committed to supporting all Petroineos employees affected by the refinery closure. We are working closely with partners to ensure they can access the training, guidance, and career opportunities they need to move forward.”

    Background 

    Grangemouth Industrial Just Transition Plan Supporting a fair transition for Scotland’s core manufacturing cluster – gov.scot

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: FS attends Lujiazui Forum

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Financial Secretary Paul Chan attended the 2025 Lujiazui Forum in Shanghai today and witnessed the signing of the Action Plan for Collaborative Development of Shanghai & Hong Kong International Financial Centres.

     

    Mr Chan, as one of the key guests, took part in the forum’s opening ceremony and morning plenary session. 

     

    Themed “Financial Opening-Up & Cooperation for High-Quality Development in a Changing Global Economy”, the forum was jointly organised by the Shanghai Municipal Government, the People’s Bank of China, the National Financial Regulatory Administration, and the China Securities Regulatory Commission.

     

    Government officials, financial regulators, industry leaders, renowned think tanks and scholars from multiple countries participated in the forum to discuss topics such as global monetary policy, capital market development, financial technology and innovation, and inclusive finance.

     

    Before the opening ceremony, Mr Chan and Shanghai Municipal People’s Government Executive Vice Mayor Wu Wei jointly witnessed the signing of the action plan.

     

    It was signed by Secretary for Financial Services & the Treasury Christopher Hui and Shanghai Office for Advancing International Financial Center Development Director-General Zhou Xiaoquan, who is also Shanghai Municipal Financial Regulatory Bureau Director.

     

    The action plan covers six areas with a total of 38 measures, including deepening the interconnectivity between Mainland and Hong Kong financial markets, enhancing the linkage and co-operation of the two places’ capital markets, supporting eligible Shanghai enterprises to list and raise funds in Hong Kong, and strengthening collaboration in areas such as commodity trading, reinsurance, green finance and fintech.

     

    The plan aims to further leverage the financial opening up, development and risk management advantages of the two cities, enhance cross-boundary and offshore financial co-operation, and promote the co-ordinated development of the two international financial centres.

     

    In his speech at the ceremony, Mr Chan explained that the action plan further specifies the directions of co-operation between Hong Kong and Shanghai, thereby injecting new and richer content into multi-level and multi-field financial collaboration.

     

    Furthermore, he noted that it includes new measures to deepen financial interconnectivity, highlights support for Mainland enterprises to go global, and promotes standard alignment and financial innovation.

     

    Mr Chan added that with strong support from the country, Hong Kong and Shanghai will join forces to create greater synergy and collaborative benefits, thus making greater contributions to the country’s development as a financial powerhouse.

     

    Upon arriving in Shanghai yesterday, the Financial Secretary attended an international exchange dinner hosted by the China Finance 40 Forum where he shared how Hong Kong is striving to promote high-quality financial development amid global political and economic changes.

     

    Mr Chan departed for Hong Kong around noon today.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: One Year in Detention: Heads of United Nations agencies and INGOs renew demand for release of staff detained in northern Yemen

    Source: Oxfam –

    This week marks one year since dozens of personnel from the United Nations, non-governmental and civil society organizations, and diplomatic missions were arbitrarily detained by the Houthi de facto authorities in northern Yemen. Others have been detained since as far back as 2021. Today, we reiterate our urgent demand for their immediate and unconditional release.

    As of today, 23 personnel from the UN and five international non-governmental organizations (INGOs) remain arbitrarily detained. Tragically, one UN staff member and another from Save the Children have died in detention. Others have lost loved ones while being held, denied the chance to attend their funerals or say goodbye.

    Our arbitrarily detained colleagues have spent at least 365 days – and for some, over 1000 days – isolated from their families, children, husbands, and wives, in flagrant breach of international law. The toll of this detention is also weighing heavily on their families, who continue to endure the unbearable pain of absence and uncertainty as they face another Eid without their loved one.

    Nothing can justify their ordeal. They were doing their jobs, helping people in desperate need: people without food, shelter, or adequate healthcare.

    Yemen remains one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises with more than 19 million people in need of humanitarian assistance, many of whom rely on it for survival. A safe and enabling environment for humanitarian operations, including the release of detained personnel, is essential to maintaining and restoring assistance to those in need. Humanitarian workers should never be targeted or detained while carrying out their mandates to serve the people of Yemen.

    The prolonged detention of our colleagues has had a chilling effect across the international community, undermining support for Yemen and hindering humanitarian response. It has also undermined mediation efforts for lasting peace.

    We acknowledge the release of one UN and two NGO personnel and the recent release of an Embassy staff member. We call on the de facto authorities to deliver on their previous commitments, including those made to the Director-General of the World Health Organization during his mission to Sana’a in December 2024.

    The UN and INGOs will continue to work through all possible channels to secure the safe and immediate release of those arbitrarily detained.

    Signatories: 

    • Achim Steiner, Administrator, UNDP
    • Amitabh Behar, OXFAM International Executive Director
    • Audrey Azoulay, Director General of UNESCO
    • Catherine Russell, UNICEF Executive Director
    • Cindy McCain, WFP Executive Director
    • Hans Grundberg, UN Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Yemen
    • Inger Ashing, Chief Executive Officer, Save the Children International
    • Michelle Nunn, President and CEO, CARE
    • Tedros Ghebreyesus, Director-General of WHO
    • Volker Türk, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Biggest-ever aid cut by G7 members a death sentence for millions of people, says Oxfam

    Source: Oxfam –

    • Aid cuts could cost millions of lives and leave girls, boys, women and men without access to enough food, water, education, health treatment
    • G7 countries are making deliberate and deadly choices by cutting life-saving aid, enabling atrocities, and reneging on their international commitments
    • Low and middle-income countries face reduced aid, rising debt, and trade barriers — a perfect storm that threatens development and recovery.

    The Group of Seven (G7) countries, which together account for around three-quarters of all official development assistance (ODA), are set to slash their aid spending by 28 percent for 2026 compared to 2024 levels.  

    It would be the biggest cut in aid since the G7 was established in 1975, and indeed in aid records going back to 1960, reveals a new analysis by Oxfam ahead of the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Canada.

    “The G7’s retreat from the world is unprecedented and couldn’t come at a worse time, with hunger, poverty, and climate harm intensifying. The G7 cannot claim to build bridges on one hand while tearing them down with the other. It sends a shameful message to the Global South, that G7 ideals of collaboration mean nothing,” said Oxfam International Executive Director Amitabh Behar.

    2026 will mark the third consecutive year of decline in G7 aid spending – a trend not seen since the 1990s. If these cuts go ahead, G7 aid levels in 2026 will crash by $44 billion to just $112 billion. The cuts are being driven primarily by the US (down $33 billion), Germany (down $3.5 billion), the UK (down $5 billion) and France (down $3 billion).

    “Rather than breaking from the Trump administration’s cruel dismantling of USAID and other US foreign assistance, G7 countries like the UK, Germany, and France are instead following the same path, slashing aid with brutal measures that will cost millions of lives,” said Behar.

    “These cuts will starve the hungry, deny medicine to the sick, and block education for a generation of girls and boys. This is a catastrophic betrayal of the world’s most vulnerable and crippling to the G7’s credibility,” said Behar.

    Economic projections show that aid cuts will mean 5.7 million more people across Africa will fall below extreme poverty levels in the coming year, a number expected to rocket to 19 million by 2030.  

    Cuts to aid are putting vital public services at risk in some of the world’s poorest countries. In countries like Liberia, Haiti, Malawi, and South Sudan, US aid had made up over 40 percent of health and education budgets, leaving them especially exposed. Combined with a growing debt crisis, this is undermining governments’ ability to care for their people.

    Global aid for nutrition will fall by 44 percent in 2025 compared to 2022:

    • The end of just $128 million worth of US-funded child nutrition programs for a million children will result in an extra 163,500 child deaths a year.  
    • At the same time, 2.3 million children suffering from severe acute malnutrition – the most lethal form of undernutrition – are now at risk of losing their life-saving treatments.
       

    One in five dollars of aid to poor countries’ health budgets are cut or under threat:  

    • WHO reports that in almost three-quarters of its country offices are seeing serious disruptions to health services, and in about a quarter of the countries where it operates some health facilities have already been forced to shut down completely.
    • US aid cuts could lead to up to 3 million preventable deaths every year, with 95 million people losing access to healthcare. This includes children dying from vaccine-preventable diseases, pregnant women losing access to care, and rising deaths from malaria, TB, and HIV.

    G7 countries are not just reneging on commitments to global aid and solidarity, they are fuelling conflicts by allowing grave violations of international law, like in Gaza where people are facing starvation. Whether in Ukraine, the occupied Palestinian territory, the Democratic Republic of the Congo or elsewhere, civilians must always be protected, and aid is often the first line of protection they get. G7 countries are illuminating a double standard that risks more global instability, conflict and atrocities.  

    While G7 countries cut aid, their citizen billionaires continue to see their wealth surge. Since the beginning of 2025, the G7 ultra-rich have made $126 billion, almost the same amount as the group’s 2025 aid commitment of $132 billion.  

    At this pace, it would take the world’s billionaires less than a month to generate the equivalent of the G7’s 2025 aid budget.

    By taxing the super-rich, the G7 could easily meet their financial commitments to end poverty and climate breakdown, whilst also having billions in new revenue to fight inequality in their own countries.  

    “The world is not short of money. The problem is that it is in the hands of the super-rich instead of the public. Rather than fairly taxing billionaires to feed the hungry, we see billionaires joining government to slash aid to the poorest in order to fund tax cuts for themselves,” said Behar.

    Oxfam is calling on the G7 to urgently reverse aid cuts and restore funding to address today’s global challenges. More than 50 years after the United Nations set the target of 0.7 percent for aid spending, most G7 countries remain well below this.  

    Oxfam is also urging the G7 to support global efforts led by Brazil and Spain to raise taxes on the super-rich, and to back the call from the African Union and The Vatican for a new UN body to help manage countries’ debt problems.
     

    According to OECD Data Explorer, the combined annual aid expenditure of the G7 in 2024 was $156.694 billion. Canada spent $7.323 billion, the United States $61.821 billion, Japan $17.583 billion, France $15.047 billion, Germany $31.382 billion, Italy $6.534 billion, and the United Kingdom $17.005 billion.

    Donor Tracker estimates that the decline in combined annual aid spending of the G7 countries for the period 2024 to 2026 will be -$44,488 billion.

    In 2024, aid from G7 countries declined by 8 percent, and projections for 2025 point to a sharper drop of 19 percent.

    Modelling using finds that 5.7 million more Africans would fall below the US$2.15 extreme poverty income level in the next year if Trump’s administration succeeds in its aid-reduction ambition. This assumes a 20 percent reduction of aid to Africa, considering that some US aid would be maintained as the US alone accounted for 26 percent of aid to Africa before the cuts.

    The dismantling of USAID and major aid reductions announced by Western donors threaten to undo decades of progress on malnutrition. A 44 percent drop in funding from 2022 levels could lead to widespread hardship and death.

    Up to 2.3 million children with severe acute malnutrition risk losing life-saving treatment, warns the Standing Together for Nutrition Consortium.

    There are 2,968 billionaires in the world, and 1,346 live in G7 countries (45 percent). 
     

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Oxfam reaction to the 2025 G7 Summit

    Source: Oxfam –

    Oxfam is deeply concerned by the outcomes of the G7 Summit in Kananaskis. At a time when urgent global crises demand bold and united action, the summit fell short of delivering the leadership the world needs.  

    Oxfam said that nowhere was this more apparent than in how this G7 totally missed its chance to exert any meaningful pressure toward peace in the Middle East. Even its call for a de-escalation between Israel and Iran, which is desperately needed, was corrupted by geo-political partiality and bias.

    Oxfam calls for an immediate end to hostilities in the region because civilian victims are paying the price and the death toll is rising. As global attention shifts to Israel’s attacks on Iran and the consequences of military escalation between the two countries, Israel’s relentless assault on Gaza continues—killing civilians and blocking independent humanitarian agencies from delivering life-saving aid. 

    Twenty-three years ago, the 2002 G8 Summit in Kananaskis marked a moment of ambition, where leaders committed to an Africa Action Plan and development cooperation. Returning here as the G7, that spirit of global solidarity and cooperation was painfully absent.  

    This G7, by stark contrast, is instead pursuing the largest aid cuts in its history at a time of rising global need. With a planned 28% reduction by 2026 compared to 2024, these cuts are not just a policy failure but put the lives of millions of people at risk, especially those already facing hunger, poverty, and ever-worsening effects of climate change.

    “The G7 has once again missed an opportunity to show global solidarity and take collective action to end conflicts, address climate change and reduce poverty and inequality. Cutting international aid to ramp up military spending is short-sighted and not the solution. In fact, it is a worrying signal for the further erosion of human rights, global stability and equity,” said Oxfam G7 lead, Jörn Kalinski.

    Although progress has been made in striking strategic partnerships with the Global South for critical minerals and renewable energy supply chains, it shouldn’t serve as a smoke screen to the current climate crisis. Climate finance and fossil fuel phase out must be prioritized as countries work towards a just transition that benefits everyone.

    This G7 did little in Kananaskis to tackle the world’s multiple crises and instead it further helped to enable a global culture of impunity when it could have committed to concrete actions to prioritize people’s lives over profit and power.

    In a world grappling with war, rising inequality, food insecurity, and climate breakdown, the G7’s retreat from responsibility is not only morally indefensible but also strategically short-sighted. 
     

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • The Strait of Hormuz: The Oil Artery at the Heart of the Iran-Israel Conflict

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    One of the world’s most critical oil chokepoints, the Strait of Hormuz is central to discussions and analyses focused on the ongoing Iran-Israel conflict. Located between Oman and Iran, the strait connects the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea. It is deep and wide enough to accommodate the world’s largest crude oil tankers, making it a vital artery at risk of disruption as tensions between Iran and Israel escalate. Although Iran has threatened to close the strait in the past, it has never followed through. The heightened conflict has reignited fears of such a closure. The strait is just 20 nautical miles wide at its narrowest point, with a significant portion falling within Iran’s territorial waters.

    Details of the strait

    The Strait of Hormuz derives its name from the ancient Persian city of Hormuz, located on an island in the strait. The island was a major trading hub for centuries, controlling maritime routes in the Persian Gulf. Historically, the strait was a key part of the Silk Road’s maritime extensions, facilitating trade between Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. The U.S. Navy’s Fifth Fleet, based in Bahrain, regularly patrols the Strait of Hormuz to ensure safe passage of commercial vessels. Also, Iran maintains a network of small, fast-attack boats and anti-ship missiles along its coastline, designed to disrupt strait traffic in a potential conflict. The strait has been associated with various conflicts in past, For example, during the Iran-Iraq War (1980–1988), the so-called “Tanker War” saw both sides attacking oil tankers in the strait, leading to U.S. naval intervention to protect Kuwaiti vessels.

    Why Is the World Concerned About its closure?

    The Strait of Hormuz is a critical oil chokepoint. These narrow channels along widely used global sea routes are essential to global energy security. Any disruption to oil transit through a major chokepoint, even temporarily, can cause significant supply delays and raise shipping costs, potentially driving up global energy prices. While some chokepoints have alternative routes, these often add significant transit time. For the Strait of Hormuz, pipeline alternatives exist but are comparatively inefficient. Approximately one-fifth of the world’s total oil consumption passes through this strait. In 2024, oil flow through the strait averaged 20 million barrels per day (b/d), equivalent to about 20% of global petroleum liquids consumption. OPEC members Saudi Arabia, Iran, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, and Iraq export most of their crude via the strait, primarily to Asia. Qatar, one of the largest exporters of liquefied natural gas (LNG), sends nearly all its LNG through the strait. In 2024, 84% of the crude oil and condensate and 83% of the LNG that moved through the Strait of Hormuz went to Asian markets. The International Energy Agency (IEA) has warned, “Iran has repeatedly threatened to close the key Strait of Hormuz if attacked. Closure of the strait, even for a limited period, would have a major impact on global oil and gas markets.”

    What Happens if Iran Closes the Strait of Hormuz?

    Iran views the Strait of Hormuz as a strategic pressure point in conflicts. However, Iran does not exclusively control the strait. While it borders the northern side and controls some islands within it, the strait is also bordered by Oman and the United Arab Emirates. Since a significant portion of the strait falls within Iran’s territorial waters, its actions could disrupt oil markets. Over 3,000 commercial ships use the strait monthly to transport oil, natural gas, and goods from Gulf countries to global markets. Oil prices surged on Tuesday as the conflict intensified and U.S. President Donald Trump reiterated his support for Israel. A blockade could trigger energy disruptions, inflation, and trade delays, potentially sending stock markets into a tailspin, especially in oil-sensitive sectors. Ironically, Israel would face no direct consequences from a Strait of Hormuz blockade. Its estimated consumption of 220,000 barrels of crude per day comes via the Mediterranean from countries like Azerbaijan (via the Baku–Tbilisi–Ceyhan pipeline through Türkiye), the U.S., Brazil, Gabon, and Nigeria.

    As the Iran-Israel conflict simmers, the Strait of Hormuz could become a flashpoint reshaping global energy dynamics. If Iran escalates by disrupting the strait’s 20 million barrels daily flow, oil prices might soar, potentially triggering a recession in some key economies. Asian markets, heavily reliant on Gulf exports, could pivot to costlier alternatives, while Europe’s LNG supply faces strain. Israel’s Mediterranean oil routes insulate it, but global inflation could still sting. Diplomacy remains critical to prevent this narrow waterway from dictating the world’s economic future.

    (Pooja Mishra is a Content Researcher at DD India)

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Rosneft improves quality of core studies

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    Specialists from the Tyumen and Tomsk research institutes of Rosneft have developed and patented a method for determining relative phase permeability – the ability of rocks to pass liquids and gases through themselves. This is the most important indicator when choosing technologies for developing hydrocarbon deposits.

    The innovation increases the accuracy of hydrodynamic modeling data by 5%, allows for the optimization of production technology and increases the efficiency of extracting reserves from heterogeneous deposits with complex geological structures.

    Scientists have used a comprehensive approach to studying carbonate rocks of Eastern Siberia, which have significant oil and gas potential. Due to the complex and heterogeneous structure of the void space of these rocks, studies using standard methods are not informative enough. The new method includes studying the structure of the pore space of full-size core samples, making special samples from them and repeatedly determining the parameters at different points and planes. This sequence allows us to identify the most likely paths of oil and gas movement in the system of pores and microcracks in rocks and create a highly accurate digital model of hydrocarbon flow.

    The work is carried out using high-tech domestic equipment with a unique core holder, which was manufactured according to a design by specialists from the Tomsk scientific institute “Rosneft”.

    Development of technological potential is one of the key elements of the corporate strategy “Rosneft-2030”. The company gives priority attention to innovation activities, defining technological leadership as a key factor in competitiveness in the oil market.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft June 18, 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 –