NewzIntel.com

Category: DJF

  • MIL-OSI China: China reports rapid growth in green electricity trading

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

    China’s green electricity trading volume surpassed 220 billion kilowatt-hours in the first five months of this year, marking a year-on-year increase of nearly 50 percent, according to industry data released at a forum on Wednesday.

    According to statistics from the China Electricity Council, with China’s new energy capacity and output steadily rising, new-sources power supply is now playing an increasingly active and competitive role in the electricity market.

    In 2024, the nationwide market-based trading volume of new energy electricity surpassed 1 trillion kilowatt-hours, accounting for 55 percent of the total new energy production, according to the council.

    China’s market-oriented electricity trading volume surged from 1.1 trillion kilowatt-hours in 2016 to 6.2 trillion in 2024, with its share in total electricity consumption rising from 17 percent to 63 percent, marking a significant shift in electricity resource allocation toward a market-driven system.

    Yang Kun, executive vice chairman of the China Electricity Council, said that in recent years, growing demand for green consumption in China has driven rapid expansion in green electricity trading, underscoring the environmental value of green energy.

    The council will continue its efforts in promoting the green and low-carbon transition in the energy and electricity sector, Yang added. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Ramos gives Inter a scare in Club World Cup stalemate

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

    UEFA Champions League runners-up Inter Milan were held to a 1-1 draw by Mexican champions Monterrey in Group E of the FIFA Club World Cup on Tuesday.

    Spanish defender Sergio Ramos gave Monterrey an early lead with a powerful header, before Lautaro Martinez leveled for Inter following a well-worked free-kick routine.

    The Nerazzurri controlled the tempo from the opening whistle, but Monterrey capitalized on their only real first-half chance. The 38-year-old Ramos rose high to meet Oliver Torres’ corner and sent a header into the bottom corner in the 25th minute, handing the Mexican side a surprise lead.

    Inter responded in the 42nd minute when Martinez finished easily from close range after Carlos Augusto squared the ball across the box, following a pinpoint overhead pass from Kristjan Asllani on a set piece.

    Both teams pushed for a winner after the break. Monterrey nearly regained the lead in the 64th minute, but Sergio Canales’ long-range strike hit the post. Martinez fired wide from distance in the 77th minute, and Nelson Deossa had one last chance in stoppage time, but his effort in the 93rd minute drifted just off target. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: River Plate cruise, Dortmund and Inter draw at Club World Cup

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

    European sides were left frustrated at the FIFA Club World Cup on Tuesday as Borussia Dortmund and Inter Milan shared the points with Fluminense and Monterrey, respectively.

    South America’s River Plate claimed the day’s most emphatic victory with a 3-1 defeat of Urawa Red Diamonds while Mamelodi Sundowns edged Ulsan 1-0.

    Marcel Sabitzer (R) of Borussia Dortmund vies for the ball during the Group F match between Fluminense FC of Brazil and Borussia Dortmund of Germany at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 in New Jersey, the United States, June 17, 2025. (Xinhua/Wu Xiaoling)

    In New Jersey, Brazil’s Fluminense was left to rue its profligacy in a goalless draw with Germany’s Borussia Dortmund.

    The Rio de Janeiro outfit looked more likely to score at MetLife Stadium but could not find a way past Swiss goalkeeper Gregor Kobel, who made a series of fine saves.

    “We showed that we are a great club and that we are going to be difficult opponents for anyone,” Fluminense’s Colombian midfielder Jhon Arias told reporters.

    “We were aware of Borussia’s quality and the level of European football, but we were superior for most of the match. That gives us peace of mind and confidence to continue playing like we did today.”

    Argentina’s River Plate began its Group E campaign with a 3-1 victory over Japan’s Urawa Red Diamonds in Seattle.

    The Buenos Aires club opened the scoring when Facundo Colidio timed his run to perfection to meet Marcos Acuna’s cross with a thumping header from the edge of the six-yard box.

    Sebastian Driussi doubled the advantage shortly after, nodding home following a defensive miscue.

    Urawa pulled a goal back through Yusuke Matsuo, who converted from the penalty spot after Takuro Kaneko was brought down by Acuna.

    Substitute Maximiliano Meza restored the two-goal cushion, rising to meet Acuna’s corner with a bullet header that beat goalkeeper Shusaku Nishikawa at his near post.

    “The most important thing was to win, but we know we have to improve,” River Plate manager Marcelo Gallardo said.

    “We suffered from nerves, which is understandable. But our upcoming matches are going to be more demanding and we have to be ready.”

    In Orlando, a first-half goal from Iqraam Rayners gave South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns a 1-0 win over South Korean side Ulsan.

    Rayners ran onto Lucas Ribeiro’s inch-perfect pass before calmly toe-poking a right-footed shot into the far corner.

    “In this competition, it’s not easy to achieve victories,” Sundowns manager Miguel Cardoso said. “Today, I think we released a lot of energy in the right way.”

    In the day’s late match at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, Inter Milan was held to a 1-1 draw by Monterrey after Lautaro Martinez cancelled out an early Sergio Ramos goal.

    The Mexican side struck first when former Real Madrid defender Ramos rose highest to send a header past Argentine goalkeeper Esteban Andrada after Oliver Torres’ corner.

    Martinez leveled just before halftime, combining with Carlos Augusto to slot home from point-blank range.

    The Italian Serie A giants dominated possession after the break but were denied by Monterrey’s disciplined defensive block. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: IOC reviews achievements of Bach’s presidency

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

    The International Olympic Committee (IOC) on Tuesday released the latest edition of the Olympic Review, highlighting the achievements of the Olympic Agenda reforms under the leadership of President Thomas Bach.

    Bach is set to hand over the presidency to Kirsty Coventry on June 23, and Issue 124 of the Olympic Review also marks Coventry’s election as the IOC’s 10th president.

    President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Thomas Bach attends a ceremony marking one year until the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics in Saint-Denis, near Paris, France on July 26, 2023. (Xinhua/Gao Jing)

    In the Review, Bach reflects on the journey that began with Olympic Agenda 2020 and continued through Olympic Agenda 2020+5. “This edition offers a moment to look back on all that we have achieved together,” he writes. “From thoughtful reflections to personal tributes, this issue captures the essence of our collective efforts: staying true to our values, putting athletes first and opening our doors ever wider to the world.”

    Featured articles include a retrospective on Olympic Agenda, stories on sport and health partnerships, athlete-centered reforms, the IOC Refugee Olympic Team, safeguarding in sport, and testimonials.

    “As the Olympic Movement looks ahead to Milano Cortina 2026 and beyond, this edition of Olympic Review is a testament to the power of unity in diversity and the enduring values of Olympism,” the IOC said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: A million guests and thousands of excursions: what attracts visitors to the Smart City pavilion at VDNKh

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Pavilion “Smart City” at VDNKh has been introducing Muscovites and tourists to the city’s key digital projects for over eight years. Over the entire period, it has been visited by over a million people, Natalia Sergunina, Deputy Mayor of Moscow.

    “This year, the pavilion receives an average of 20,000 visitors per month — a quarter more than in 2024. Many are happy to participate in online events: master classes, programming classes, and also attend in-person courses in 3D modeling, robotics, and other areas,” said Natalia Sergunina.

    The exhibition consists of eight thematic zones reflecting different spheres of life in the capital. The stands allow you to learn why Moscow needs a digital twin, how artificial intelligence helps doctors, and where navigators get information about traffic congestion from.

    One of the largest spaces is “Moscow is More Than a City”. It unites projects in such areas as culture, business and tourism. In another section, you can go on a virtual journey into the past – for example, see what the Northern River Terminal, Tverskaya Street and VDNKh were like.

    Last year, the pavilion hosted an exhibition “Digital Technologies of Moscow: for the 30th Anniversary of Runet”Children and adults are invited to study interactive timeline, dedicated to the history of the digitalization of the capital, to get to know modern city online services and services in more detail, and also to try your hand at computer games that were popular 30 years ago.

    As specified by the capital Department of Information Technology, the exhibition at VDNKh is regularly updated. Currently, the pavilion has 77 objects and stands. It is open from 10:00 to 20:00 from Tuesday to Sunday inclusive, admission is free. Since its opening, almost 11 thousand excursions have been held here.

    AI, VR and AR: what technologies introduce tourists to MoscowThe Whole Family at VDNKh: Which Museums Can Be Visited for Free at the Country’s Main Exhibition

    Provision of socially significant services in electronic form and development of e-government infrastructure correspond to the objectives of the national project “Data Economy and Digital Transformation of the State” and the Moscow regional project “Digital Public Administration”.

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

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

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

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/155386073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: From June 20, trains heading towards the center will temporarily not stop at the Pererva station of the MCD-2

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    From June 20, trains heading towards the center will temporarily not stop at the Pererva station of the second Moscow Central Diameter (MCD-2). This is necessary to create a modern city station. The work is being carried out by JSC Russian Railways together with the Moscow Government team.

    Passengers will be able to use alternative routes. Thus, in order to leave the Pererva platform towards the center of Moscow, it is necessary to go from the platform towards Podolsk to the Kuryanovo station and transfer to the oncoming train for free.

    To get to Pererva from Podolsk, you need to go to Depot station and also change to a train in the opposite direction. Both stations have one island platform, so to change you just need to cross from one side to the other. Trains in the direction of Podolsk will run as usual.

    In order for passengers to quickly get their bearings and plan their routes, posters with various travel options will be placed at MCD-2 stations.

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

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

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

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/155393073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Premises in the Lanceray house have been put up for city auction

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Investors can buy four rooms in a historic building in the Krasnoselsky District. This was reported by the Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Urban Development Policy and Construction Vladimir Efimov.

    “Investors can purchase four premises with a total area of about two thousand square meters in the Lanceray house on Milyutinsky Lane. The corresponding objects are already available for purchase on the investment portal. Another premises in this architectural monument are planned to be put up for auction in the near future. The building has the status of a cultural heritage site of regional significance. The new owners will have to carry out restoration and reconstruction work, as well as use the premises in accordance with the security obligation to ensure the protection of the architectural heritage of the capital,” Vladimir Efimov noted.

    The cultural heritage site is located at the address: Milyutinsky Lane, Building 20/2, Building 1. The building in the Gothic Art Nouveau style began to be built in 1915 under the direction of architect Valentin Dubovsky. After the October Revolution, the house was completed according to the design of architect Alexander Kalmykov.

    “The largest of the premises put up for auction has an area of over 1.7 thousand square meters and occupies the basement of an eight-story residential building. The sizes of the other three objects vary from 72.6 to 129.3 square meters. The building is located on the second line of the Boulevard Ring, a three-minute walk from the Turgenevskaya metro station. The area with developed public and business activity will be a good place to open a store, office or business in the restaurant and hotel industry,” she noted.

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

    As the head of the Moscow City Department for Competition Policy said Kirill Purtov, the acceptance of applications for participation in electronic auctions for the purchase of four properties in Milyutinsky Lane will end on July 10, 14 and 16, depending on the lot. The auctions will take place on July 22, 23 and 25, respectively.

    All information about the premises put up for auction is presented on the capital’s investment portal. You can learn more about them, study the lot documentation and the rules for conducting auctions in the section “Property from the city”.

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

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

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

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

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/155377073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Muscovites are invited to listen to songs from the war years as part of “Summer in Moscow”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    On June 18 and 22, two performances by students of the Russian Institute of Theatre Arts – GITIS, dedicated to the anniversary of the beginning of the Great Patriotic War, will take place in the center of Chistoprudny Boulevard. The productions will be shown in a rotunda with columns as part of the project “Summer in Moscow”.

    On June 18 from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM, the audience will enjoy the musical and dramatic program “Help Two Lovers”. The unique format of the performance will feature both old romances and songs of the Soviet era – musical masterpieces of the 20th century created by Alexandra Pakhmutova, Georgy Portnov, Vasily Solovyov-Sedoy, Zinaida Levina and other outstanding composers. In addition, students will perform poetic masterpieces by Robert Rozhdestvensky, Mikhail Ancharov and Lev Oshanin.

    The play “Help Two Lovers” will allow you to immerse yourself in an atmosphere of spiritual openness and faith in goodness. Among the key ones are “Good Girls”, “Standing at the Half-Station”, “City of Lovers”, “Letter to the Front”, “Help Me” and other songs filled with warmth and bright nostalgia.

    On June 22, the Day of Remembrance and Sorrow, at 6:00 p.m. the program “Sing for Russia” will begin. Young artists will use music to tell stories of heroism, love, and fortitude. Songs that have become musical symbols of the Great Patriotic War will be performed, including “Cranes”, “Blue Handkerchief”, “Landing Battalion”, “Zhenka’s Romance” from the opera “The Dawns Here Are Quiet”, “Ballad of the Mother”, “Spark”, “I Love You, Russia”, and “Hymn of Love”.

    Particular emphasis will be placed on live, emotional performance. Young actors and singers, future stars of musical theatres, will give familiar songs a new sound, while remaining respectful of their spirit and meaning.

    Performances on Chistoprudny Boulevard are not only musical events, but also an important symbol of memory addressed to all generations. The program involves third-year students of the musical theater department of the Russian Institute of Theatre Arts — GITIS, the workshop of People’s Artist of Russia Professor Dmitry Bertman. Director — Galina Timakova, associate professor, honored cultural worker, teacher of directing and acting in the musical theater department of the Russian Institute of Theatre Arts — GITIS.

    Musical events on Chistoprudny Boulevard are held as part of a large cultural program, part of which is the project “Street. Dances”.

    The Inspiration Arts Festival will be held at VDNKh in JulySergei Sobyanin: Forum-festival “Moscow 2030” will be held from August 1 to September 14

    Project “Summer in Moscow”— the main event of the season, uniting the brightest events of the capital. Every day in all districts of the city there are charity, cultural and sports events, most of which are free. The project “Summer in Moscow” is held for the second time, and the new season will be more intense: new festivals and events will be added to the traditional ones — original and colorful.

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

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

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

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/155395073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ21: Resumption of public rental housing units and Well-off Tenants Policies

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by the Hon Elizabeth Quat and a written reply by the Secretary for Housing, Ms Winnie Ho, in the Legislative Council today (June 18):
     
    Question:
     
         According to government information, 15 000-odd public rental housing (PRH) units were recovered by the Housing Department for various reasons in 2023, which was 55 per cent more than the annual number of about 10 000 units in the past. Regarding the recovery of PRH units and the Well-off Tenants Policies, will the Government inform this Council of the following information in the past five financial years:
     
    (1) the number of PRH units recovered each year for the following reasons:
    (i) death of principal tenants or principal tenants being admitted to residential care homes;
    (ii) principal tenants having purchased subsidised sale flats;
    (iii) tenants moving out due to breach of tenancy agreements (e.g. ‍accruing 16 points within two years under the Marking Scheme for Estate Management Enforcement or defaulting on rent payment);
    (iv) tenants moving out due to failure or refusal to return the declaration form on income and assets as required;
    (v) tenants moving out as their family income/total household net asset value exceeded the limits prescribed under the Well-off Tenants Policies;
    (vi) tenants were asked to move out as their household members owned domestic properties in Hong Kong;
    (vii) voluntary surrender of units by tenants (including moving to other regions/countries, moving to other residences, or for unknown reasons);
    (viii) tenants moving out upon application for transfer; and
    (ix) other reasons;
     
    (2) the number of recovered PRH units used for allocation to applicants on the PRH Waiting List each year;
     
    (3) the number of Notices-to-quit (NTQs) issued by the Hong Kong Housing Authority (HA) to PRH tenants each year and, among them, the number of tenants who lodged appeals in this regard, together with a breakdown by the outcome of the appeals (e.g. ‍cancellation of NTQs, amendment of NTQs and setting of conditions for the tenants lodging appeals to rectify the violations, as well as unsuccessful appeals);
     
    (4) the number of cases received by the HA in which applications for granting of new tenancy agreements were made by authorised members of the units due to the death or moving out of the original principle tenants and, among such cases, the number of those which were approved and rejected; among the approved cases, the number of those in which the PRH units involved were granted approval for addition of household members to the tenancy in the past three years;
     
    (5) the number of PRH tenants who had successfully applied for deletion of household members from the tenancy each year and, among them, the number of those who were well-off tenants; and
     
    (6) the respective numbers of PRH tenants who were required under the Well-off Tenants Policies to pay (i) 1.5 times net rent plus rates and (ii) double net rent plus rates each year?
     
    Reply:

    President,
     
         In response to the questions raised by the Hon Elizabeth Quat, our reply is as follows:

    (1) In the past five financial years (i.e. 2020/21 to 2024/25), the numbers of public rental housing (PRH) units recovered by the Hong Kong Housing Authority (HA), categorised by reasons for recovery, are listed in Annex 1.
     
    (2) Based on the established allocation policies and programmes, the HA allocates newly completed and refurbished recovered PRH units to meet the needs of applicants under various categories. We will allocate most of the units to PRH applicants and closely monitor the actual allocation figures of other categories (e.g. Compassionate Rehousing) to ensure that any units in excess of the estimated demand under other categories would be allocated to PRH applicants by the end of the year. In the past five financial years, the actual numbers of recovered PRH units allocated to PRH applicants and applicants under other categories are tabulated in Annex 2.
     
    (3) In the past five financial years, the numbers of Notices-to-quit issued by the HA, the numbers of appeal cases received by the Appeal Panel (Housing), and the numbers of appeal cases heard by the Appeal Panel (Housing) as well as the rulings are set out by category in Annex 3.
     
    (4) According to the HA’s existing Policy on Grant of New Tenancy (GNT), upon the death or moving out of the principal tenant of a PRH unit, the tenancy can be granted to his/her spouse who has been listed in the tenancy. If there is no surviving spouse listed in the tenancy, one of the authorised family members currently living in the unit can be granted a new tenancy, provided that the Comprehensive Means Test and Domestic Property Test set at the level of Well-off Tenants Policies are passed. In the past five financial years, there were approximately 32 000 GNT cases approved upon the death or moving out of the original principal tenant. The Housing Department (HD) does not keep statistics on the number of rejected applications for GNT and the number of approved GNT cases which involved addition of household members.
     
    (5) In the past five financial years, the HA approved an average of about 44 000 cases per year on the deletion of family members from PRH tenancies. Among these cases, around 16 700 cases arose from death or admission to elderly homes, while the remaining of about 27 300 cases resulted from moving out or other reasons. The HD does not keep statistics on the number of aforesaid cases which involved “well-off tenants”.
     
    (6) In the past five financial years, the numbers of PRH tenants under the HA required to pay 1.5 or double net rent plus rates are listed in Annex 4.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Sciences Po and Its CIVICA Partners Stand for Academic Freedom & University Autonomy

    Source: Universities – Science Po in English

    In times of global uncertainty, CIVICA – a European alliance of ten leading universities in the social sciences – reaffirms its stance against political or financial interference in science and education. The alliance is concerned by attempts across the globe to restrict academic inquiry or reshape institutions for ideological ends. Such actions erode the autonomy of higher education institutions and undermine the quality of academic research and teaching.

    During a Presidents’ meeting at SGH Warsaw last week, the CIVICA partners decided on a joint statement to reaffirm the importance of academic freedom and institutional autonomy, as essential pillars of democratic and open societies.

    In keeping with the core values of their mission, CIVICA partners express their solidarity with institutions, scholars, and students facing pressure or discrimination. CIVICA remains committed to fostering free and open spaces for academic inquiry and critical debate, encouraging diversity of views and pluralism.

    CIVICA partners’ presidents and team at SGH Warsaw, June 2025. (credits: Piotr Potapowicz / SGH Warsaw)

    The joint statement is endorsed by:

    • Sciences Po,
    • Bocconi University,
    • Central European University,
    • European University Institute,
    • Hertie School,
    • National University of Political Studies and Public Administration,
    • SGH Warsaw School of Economics,
    • Stockholm School of Economics.

    Read the statement

     

    Following a report co-authored by Florence Haegel, Marie Mawad, and Jeremy Perelman, submitted to the President of Sciences Po, Sciences Po adopted its own doctrine on the same topics in March 2025.

    Sciences Po applies a general principle of institutional restraint. This refocusing ensures the pluralism of opinions within the human, intellectual, and academic community that is Sciences Po.

    This principle is distinct from that of “neutrality” and does not imply the institution’s disengagement from all public debate. Positions taken by Sciences Po are indeed considered legitimate if they are linked to the primary missions of the institution.

    Read the doctrine

     

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Euro area monthly balance of payments: April 2025

    Source: European Central Bank

    18 June 2025

    • Current account recorded €20 billion surplus in April 2025, down from €51 billion in previous month
    • Current account surplus amounted to €419 billion (2.8% of euro area GDP) in the 12 months to April 2025, up from €339 billion (2.3%) one year earlier
    • In financial account, euro area residents’ net acquisitions of non-euro area portfolio investment securities totalled €690 billion and non-residents’ net acquisitions of euro area portfolio investment securities also totalled €690 billion in the 12 months to April 2025

    Chart 1

    Euro area current account balance

    (EUR billions unless otherwise indicated; working day and seasonally adjusted data)

    Source: ECB.

    The current account of the euro area recorded a surplus of €20 billion in April 2025, a decrease of €31 billion from the previous month (Chart 1 and Table 1). Surpluses were recorded for goods (€30 billion) and services (€ 7 billion), while the primary income account was balanced (€0 billion). A deficit was recorded for secondary income (€16 billion).

    Table 1

    Current account of the euro area

    Source: ECB.

    Note: Discrepancies between totals and their components may be due to rounding.

    Data for the current account of the euro area

    In the 12 months to April 2025, the current account surplus widened to €419 billion (2.8% of euro area GDP), up from a surplus of €339 billion (2.3% of euro area GDP) one year earlier. This increase was mainly driven by larger surpluses for goods (up from €342 billion to €384 billion), services (up from €140 billion to €164 billion) and primary income (up from €25 billion to €48 billion). These developments were partly offset by a larger deficit for secondary income (up from €168 billion to €176 billion).

    Chart 2

    Selected items of the euro area financial account

    (EUR billions; 12-month cumulated data)

    Source: ECB.

    Notes: For assets, a positive (negative) number indicates net purchases (sales) of non-euro area instruments by euro area investors. For liabilities, a positive (negative) number indicates net sales (purchases) of euro area instruments by non-euro area investors.

    In direct investment, euro area residents made net investments of €134 billion in non-euro area assets in the 12 months to April 2025, following net disinvestments of €192 billion one year earlier (Chart 2 and Table 2). Non-residents disinvested €20 billion in net terms from euro area assets in the 12 months to April 2025, following net disinvestments of €334 billion one year earlier.

    In portfolio investment, euro area residents’ net purchases of non-euro area equity increased to €135 billion in the 12 months to April 2025, up from €69 billion one year earlier. Over the same period, net purchases of non-euro area debt securities by euro-area residents increased to €555 billion, up from €459 billion one year earlier. Non-residents’ net purchases of euro area equity increased to €365 billion in the 12 months to April 2025, up from €207 billion one year earlier. Over the same period, non-residents made net purchases of euro area debt securities amounting to €325 billion, declining from net purchases of €412 billion one year earlier.

    Table 2

    Financial account of the euro area

    (EUR billions unless otherwise indicated; transactions; non-working day and non-seasonally adjusted data)

    Source: ECB.

    Notes: Decreases in assets and liabilities are shown with a minus sign. Net financial derivatives are reported under assets. “MFIs” stands for monetary financial institutions. Discrepancies between totals and their components may be due to rounding.

    Data for the financial account of the euro area

    In other investment, euro area residents recorded net acquisitions of non-euro area assets amounting to €403 billion in the 12 months to April 2025 (following net acquisitions of €163 billion one year earlier), while they recorded net incurrences of liabilities of €122 billion (following net disposals of €142 billion one year earlier).

    Chart 3

    Monetary presentation of the balance of payments

    (EUR billions; 12-month cumulated data)

    Source: ECB.

    Notes: “MFI net external assets (enhanced)” incorporates an adjustment to the MFI net external assets (as reported in the consolidated MFI balance sheet items statistics) based on information on MFI long-term liabilities held by non-residents, available in b.o.p. statistics. B.o.p. transactions refer only to transactions of non-MFI residents of the euro area. Financial transactions are shown as liabilities net of assets. “Other” includes financial derivatives and statistical discrepancies.

    The monetary presentation of the balance of payments (Chart 3) shows that the net external assets (enhanced) of euro area MFIs increased by €452 billion in the 12 months to April 2025. This increase was driven by the current and capital accounts surplus and, to a lesser extent, by euro area non-MFIs’ net inflows in portfolio investment equity and debt and in other investment. These developments were partly offset by euro area non-MFIs’ net outflows in direct investment.

    In April 2025 the Eurosystem’s stock of reserve assets decreased to €1,496.9 billion from €1,511 billion in the previous month (Table 3). This decrease was driven by negative exchange rate changes (€18.0 billion) and, to a lesser extent, by negative price changes (€ 1.2 billion). These were partly offset by net acquisitions of assets (€ 5.2 billion).

    Table 3

    Reserve assets of the euro area

    (EUR billions; amounts outstanding at the end of the period, flows during the period; non-working day and non-seasonally adjusted data)

    Source: ECB.

    Notes: “Other reserve assets” comprises currency and deposits, securities, financial derivatives (net) and other claims. Discrepancies between totals and their components may be due to rounding.

    Data for the reserve assets of the euro area

    Data revisions

    This press release does not incorporate revisions to previous periods.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Lufthansa baggage collection and Check-in service now also available in the greater Cologne area

    Source: Lufthansa Group

    Lufthansa is further expanding its innovative baggage collection and check-in service for its passengers. In cooperation with its technology partner ‘Airportr’, Lufthansa already offers this convenient service to all travelers departing from Frankfurt. As of today, the service is also available to passengers traveling to Frankfurt Airport by train from the Cologne and Siegburg/Bonn areas. In addition, travelers with Discover Airlines can now also enjoy this innovation – both in the Frankfurt and Cologne areas.

    The idea is simple and convenient: passengers can have their suitcases and luggage collected from their home or hotel. The luggage is sealed, brought securely to the airport and checked in there. Travelers receive real-time updates via a personalized tracking link and a digital baggage tag receipt. Passengers can travel to the airport conveniently and without heavy luggage and go straight to the security checkpoint – they only collect their checked baggage at their destination.

    The convenient premium service saves time, is comfortable and makes travel easier, especially by public transport.

    Interested guests can book the offer via https://www.lufthansa.com/de/de/prepare-for-your-trip/baggage  up to 36 hours before departure. The service has been available to customers from the greater Frankfurt, Mannheim, Heidelberg, Hanau, Aschaffenburg, Wiesbaden, Mainz, Darmstadt and Bensheim areas since February. With immediate effect, passengers at Lufthansa Express Rail locations in Cologne and Siegburg/Bonn can also take advantage of the service: the service region has been extended to include the greater Cologne, Bonn, Leverkusen, Hürth and Brühl areas. The baggage collection service is available from as little as 29 euros, with prices varying depending on location and collection time.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Environmental justice Fashion waste from top UK brands found polluting endangered turtles’ habitat in Ghana Discarded clothes from Next, Asda and M&S found in protected wetlands threatened by fast-growing waste dumps Clothes discarded by UK consumers and exported to Ghana have been found in a… by Stefano Gelmini June 18, 2025

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    Discarded clothes from Next, Asda and M&S found in protected wetlands threatened by fast-growing waste dumps

    Clothes discarded by UK consumers and exported to Ghana have been found in a huge new dumpsite growing inside internationally protected wetlands, an Unearthed and Greenpeace Africa investigation reveals. 

    Stills and footage of the waste dumps and the UK-branded clothing available here.

    Unearthed reporters have found garments from UK high-street brands Next, George at Asda, and Marks & Spencer inside the protected nature site home to rare birds and three species of turtles.

    The clothes were located at or close to two open-air waste dumps that have recently appeared inside the wetlands. Clothing items from M&S, Zara, H&M, and Primark were also found at a sprawling third dump just on a riverbank just outside the nature reserve, from where fashion waste often floats downstream, polluting the wetlands.

    Scientists are concerned about the impact on local wildlife of the microplastics and chemicals released from textile waste. Locals complain that their fishing nets, waterways and beaches are clogged with synthetic fast fashion exported to Ghana from the UK and Europe.

    Ghana is the world’s largest importer of used clothing, with 15 million items of discarded garments arriving each week [1]. The UK sent more fashion waste to Ghana last year – 57,000 tonnes according to UN trade data – than to any other country except the UAE [2]. But local officials estimate about 40% of each bale is unusable – torn, stained, or unsuitable for the climate. 

    This overspill has overwhelmed Accra, resulting in new waste dumps appearing just outside the capital. Unearthed reporters found two fast-growing tips inside a critical biodiversity area, the Densu Delta, designated a “Ramsar site”: a wetland of “international importance” under the Convention on Wetlands. One of the dumps, Glefe, has been established for just four years, according to Google Earth historical images, and it already looms taller than a two-storey building in places. The second, Akkaway, is less than a year old but rapidly expanding.

    The protected nature site provides a habitat for birds such as rare roseate terns, which migrate from the UK, and curlew sandpipers, which visit from the Arctic tundra. The endangered leatherback and green turtles lay their eggs on the conservation area’s beach, as does the Olive Ridley turtle, known for nesting en masse on the same beach where it hatched [3]. 

    Local people rely on the ecosystem for fishing and salt production. Unearthed has spoken to local fishermen who describe hauling in textile waste in their nets and blame it for a decline in fish stocks.

    Commenting on the findings, Greenpeace UK’s plastic campaigner Laura Burley said:

    “It’s heartbreaking to see a protected nature site turning into a waste dump because of our addiction to fast fashion. A dress designed to be worn just once or twice before being thrown away could pose a threat to rare birds and marine turtles in these protected wetlands for decades to come, while also harming people’s livelihoods. And with the majority of these garments made of plastic fibres, our throwaway clothes are adding to the plastic pollution choking our oceans. The UK government should force fashion retailers to take some responsibility for the waste they create while backing strong targets to cut plastic production in the UN Global Plastics Treaty.”

    Dr Jones Quartey, a wetland ecologist at the University of Ghana, told Unearthed that disposing of textiles in wetlands could cause irreparable harm. “This is dangerous – more so when we don’t know what chemicals are in the textile waste,” he said. “The bioaccumulation and biomagnification of microplastics in aquatic organisms and humans could pose risks such as physical damage, chemical exposure and disruption of biological processes.”

    When contacted by Unearthed, the fashion labels acknowledged that the industry faces challenges around processing textile waste. M&S, George, and Primark said they run “take-back” schemes to help address the issue. H&M, Zara, and George said they would support an extended producer responsibility framework to hold labels accountable for their products’ end-of-life impact.  

    Read the full investigation here.

    ENDS

    Contact: Greenpeace UK news team at press.uk@greenpeace.org and on 020 7865 8255

    Stills and footage of the waste dumps and UK-branded clothes, as well as interviews with local people, can be downloaded here.

    Notes

    1. From a Greenpeace Africa report: https://www.greenpeace.org/africa/en/press/56381/fast-fashion-slow-poison-new-report-exposes-toxic-impact-of-global-textile-waste-in-ghana/
    2. UN trade data:
      https://comtradeplus.un.org/TradeFlow?Frequency=A&Flows=X&CommodityCodes=6309&Partners=all&Reporters=826&period=2024&AggregateBy=none&BreakdownMode=plu
    3. https://ghanawildlife.org/densu.html

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Hilton to Triple its Presence in Africa to More Than 160 Hotels

    • Hilton expects to open more than 100 hotels in the coming years in markets including Ghana, Benin, Nigeria, Angola and Madagascar
    • Most recent hotel openings include Canopy by Hilton Cape Town Longkloof, Hampton by Hilton Sandton Grayston and DoubleTree by Hilton Addis Ababa Airport
    • Hilton to make its Ghana debut later this year with the opening of Hilton Accra Cantonments
    • Hilton is currently hiring for 600 new hospitality jobs in Africa and expects to create 18,000 new positions as it expands its portfolio.

    Coinciding with Future Hospitality Summit Africa 2025, Hilton (NYSE: HLT) today announced plans to almost triple its presence in Africa to more than 160 hotels trading in the coming years. Across its portfolio of market-leading brands, Hilton expects to open more than 100 hotels on the continent, supporting Africa’s burgeoning hospitality sector and creating approximately 18,000 jobs for local people.

    Carlos Khneisser, chief development officer, Middle East & Africa, Hilton, said, “We are thrilled to announce several new hotel agreements which significantly expand our footprint in Africa, a continent brimming with potential and opportunity. Our development strategy underscores our commitment to supporting Africa’s hospitality sector as we partner with owners to grow our footprint, deliver exceptional stays for our customers and create jobs for local people. Africa offers incredible opportunity, from thriving business hubs to vibrant cultures, wildlife, and natural landscapes. We are excited to unveil a host of new destinations building on Hilton’s legacy of hospitality across Africa for over 65 years.”  

    Hilton Debuts in Angola

    Hilton has made its Angolan debut with the signing of three properties – two in the capital city of Luanda under its flagship Hilton Hotels & Resorts brand and affordable and upscale Hilton Garden Inn brand, as well as one in Cabinda with a property under its award-winning DoubleTree by Hilton brand.

    Hilton Luanda Hotel Godinho

    Hilton has signed Hilton Luanda Hotel Godinho in partnership with Servicab S.A. The hotel is expected to open in 2027 and will feature 220 guest rooms and suites. Stretched along an 11,250-square-metre beachfront with unobstructed views of the ocean, the property will feature multiple dining options and over 1,000 square metres of event space.

    Hilton Garden Inn Luanda Airport

    Hilton has signed Hilton Garden Inn Luanda Airport in partnership with Crestigo. Set to open in 2028, Hilton Garden Inn Luanda Airport will feature 200 guest rooms, an all-day dining restaurant and terrace, flexible meeting rooms, a fitness centre, a pool, and a rooftop bar. The hotel’s proximity to Antonio Agostinho Neto International Airport and corporate business hubs makes it an ideal choice for business travellers.

    DoubleTree by Hilton Cabinda Futila Residences

    Hilton has also signed an agreement with Prodoil S.A. to debut its DoubleTree by Hilton brand in Angola. The property is expected to open in 2026 and will provide 290 contemporary apartments, including studio rooms, two and three-bedroom suites, as well as 10 three-bedroom oceanfront villas. It will also feature a restaurant, a swimming pool, and a natural lake.

    Additional Hilton Market Debuts

    Hilton Cotonou

    In Benin, Hilton has signed an agreement to open Hilton Cotonou in partnership with the Republic of Benin, through the Société de Développement Hôtelier du Bénin (SDHB). This landmark project marks Hilton’s official entry into the Beninese market.

    Scheduled to open in 2028, Hilton Cotonou will be strategically located on the Boulevard de la Marina, next to the Congress Palace, key government offices, and several international embassies. The hotel will feature 233 contemporary guest rooms and suites, an all-day dining restaurant, a signature destination bar and terrace, a pool bar, a spa, an outdoor pool, and flexible meeting spaces designed for both business and social events.

    The project is expected to generate several hundred direct and indirect jobs across hospitality and related sectors. It will also enhance Benin’s capacity to host international conferences and events, reinforcing the country’s ambition to become an African hub for business and high-end tourism.

    Hilton & Hilton Garden Inn Antananarivo 

    Hilton has signed agreements to open two properties in Madagascar, marking Hilton’s re-entry into the country. Located in the heart of Madagascar’s capital and expected to open in 2028, Hilton Antananarivo will feature 170 guest rooms, multiple dining options, a ballroom, six meeting rooms, a fitness centre, spa and outdoor pool. Further South, Hilton Garden Inn Antananarivo will be part of a mixed-use development with retail and office spaces, making it ideal for business and leisure travellers. Set to open in 2027, the 120-guest room hotel will offer a restaurant, bar, flexible meeting rooms, a fitness centre, and an outdoor pool.

    Hilton’s Nigeria Expansion

    The Wave Hotel Abuja Jabi, Curio Collection by Hilton

    Located in Jabi, one of the capital’s most popular districts, The Wave Hotel Abuja Jabi, Curio Collection by Hilton, will feature 93 stylishly appointed guest rooms, upscale dining venues, an outdoor pool, and a wellness centre. Developed in partnership with The Wave Hotel Limited (OpCo), the hotel is set to open in 2026 and benefits from being a short 10-minute drive from Abuja’s Commercial Business District. Each hotel in Curio Collection is hand-picked to immerse guests in one-of-a-kind moments in the world’s most sought-after destinations, evoking a bespoke story through distinctive architecture and design, world-class food and beverage, and curated experiences. 

    Hilton Lagos Ikeja

    Hilton has signed Hilton Lagos Ikeja in partnership with Cornfield Group. Located in Ikeja’s government and residential hub, the hotel is strategically situated near corporate and governmental offices and in proximity to the Murtala Muhammed International Airport. Slated to open in 2029, the hotel will feature 200 modern guest rooms and suites – and offers elevated dining options such as an all-day dining restaurant, a signature restaurant, a lobby bar, a pool bar & grill, and a destination bar. The hotel will also include a spacious ballroom, four meeting rooms, and a fully equipped fitness centre.

    Hilton Garden Inn in Kano

    Marking Kano’s first internationally branded hotel, Hilton Garden Inn in Kano is being developed in partnership with Akhim Plus Limited. The hotel will offer 100 guest rooms, flexible meeting rooms, an outdoor pool, and a fitness centre. Expected to open in 2029, the hotel’s location near key sites including the Government House, Emir’s Palace, National Museum, Kano Race Course, Kano Golf Club, and Meena Event Centre makes it an ideal choice for business and leisure travellers alike.

    West Africa and East Africa

    Hampton by Hilton Accra Airport

    Hilton has signed Hampton by Hilton Accra Airport with Amani International Hospitality Limited – bringing Hampton by Hilton’s award-winning hospitality to Ghana’s Kotoka International Airport. Opening in 2026, Hampton by Hilton Accra Airport will include 170 guest rooms, a fully equipped fitness centre, an outdoor pool, and meeting spaces. The hotel will also offer a dynamic open-concept social space and a round-the-clock snacks shop. It will be a part of Airport Area Accra, a mixed-use development featuring malls and corporate offices.

    In Ethiopia, Hilton recently announced agreements with Brighton Hotels and Business Plc. to open two properties – DoubleTree by Hilton Adama and DoubleTree by Hilton Dire Dawa (http://apo-opa.co/4lbtHv2) – marking the first internationally branded hotels in the cities. Opening in 2028, these hotels further reaffirm Hilton’s commitment to expanding its presence in Ethiopia, with plans to reach eight trading properties across the country in the coming years.

    Hilton has also announced its Tanzanian re-entry with the signing of Canopy by Hilton Zanzibar The Burj (http://apo-opa.co/3ST8aeB), in partnership with CPS Live Limited. Expected to open in 2027, the lifestyle hotel will feature 162 inviting and sophisticated guest rooms and suites, elevated dining spaces, and a wide array of facilities. Located in the heart of Fumba Town and part of a mixed-use development, ‘BURJ Zanzibar,’ the property will offer unique experiences tailored to guests seeking authentic local experiences.

    North Africa

    Hilton continues to grow across North Africa, with plans to triple its portfolio in Egypt (http://apo-opa.co/4l58VNw) to more than 40 trading hotels across the country in the coming years. In Morocco, Hilton is set to more than double its portfolio (http://apo-opa.co/3G2a75u), with plans to bolster its luxury presence and introduce new brands. Hilton also recently signed a new DoubleTree by Hilton property in Fes, an ancient city whose medina is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

    DoubleTree by Hilton Fes Golf

    In partnership with Le Clos de l’Atlas, Hilton is set to open DoubleTree by Hilton Fes Golf in 2028. The 109-guest room property will be located next to a golf course and will offer easy access to Fes’s many cultural attractions. The hotel will also be in close proximity to Fes’s industrial quarter and an upcoming convention centre, making it ideal for business travellers as well.

    Recent & Upcoming Openings

    In South Africa, Hilton recently opened Canopy by Hilton Cape Town Longkloof (http://apo-opa.co/4l4zrXe) in partnership with Growthpoint Properties, marking the lifestyle brand’s debut in South Africa. Located in the vibrant Longkloof precinct, the hotel features 154 spacious and modern guest rooms. Each hotel room reflects the country’s cultural richness through bold local art and design and colourful prints throughout its interiors. Ideally situated in Cape Town’s City Bowl, the property offers easy access to Table Mountain, Camps Bay, and the V&A Waterfront. Guests can also enjoy the hotel’s signature restaurant, Ongetem, led by renowned chef Bertus Basson, celebrating South African culinary heritage with bold, contemporary flair.

    Hilton also recently opened DoubleTree by Hilton Addis Ababa Airport (http://apo-opa.co/44lFtgD) in Ethiopia. Located just minutes from Bole Addis Ababa International Airport, the property offers a complimentary airport shuttle, a rooftop restaurant, and proximity to the various events at Millenium Hall. Last year, Hilton opened the first Hampton by Hilton in Africa in South Africa with Hampton by Hilton Sandton Grayston (http://apo-opa.co/4lfuafR), bringing the brand’s friendly and authentic service to Johannesburg’s financial and shopping district.

    Later this year, Hilton expects to open its first hotel in Ghana with Hilton Accra Cantonments in partnership with High Street Development Company. Located in Cantonments, an upscale suburb which is home to multiple embassies and high commissions, the hotel will feature 145 guest rooms and a range of dining options including an all-day dining restaurant, a lobby lounge and pool bar. The hotel will offer a gym, spa, and outdoor swimming pool, as well as more than 900 square metres of event space including a ballroom, seven meeting rooms and an executive boardroom.

    Hilton currently operates 63 hotels in Africa, with more than 100 under development. All hotels will be part of Hilton Honors, Hilton’s award-winning loyalty programme with over 218 million members globally. 

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Bench.

    Contact:
    Maya Chacko
    Hilton
    maya.chacko@hilton.com

    Connect with Hilton on: 
    Facebook: http://apo-opa.co/4lhOgGl
    X: http://apo-opa.co/40b5fSe
    LinkedIn: http://apo-opa.co/4lbh2Ij
    Instagram: http://apo-opa.co/40bQpeh  
    YouTube: http://apo-opa.co/3Ti1Uxf

    About Hilton:
    Hilton (NYSE: HLT) is a leading global hospitality company with a portfolio (http://apo-opa.co/3G4U0nJ) of 24 world-class brands comprising more than 8,600 properties and nearly 1.3 million rooms, in 139 countries and territories. Dedicated to fulfilling its founding vision to fill the earth with the light and warmth of hospitality, Hilton has welcomed over 3 billion guests in its more than 100-year history, was named the No. 1 World’s Best Workplace by Great Place to Work and Fortune and has been recognized as a global leader on the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices. Hilton has introduced industry-leading technology enhancements to improve the guest experience, including Digital Key Share, automated complimentary room upgrades and the ability to book confirmed connecting rooms. Through the award-winning guest loyalty program Hilton Honors, the more than 218 million Hilton Honors (http://apo-opa.co/3Ti1Q0t) members who book directly with Hilton can earn Points for hotel stays and experiences money can’t buy. With the free Hilton Honors app (http://apo-opa.co/4lf8yjz), guests can book their stay, select their room, check in, unlock their door with a Digital Key and check out, all from their smartphone. Visit http://stories.Hilton.com for more information.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: The Copper Scramble: African Mining Week to Examine Merger & Acquisition (M&A) Deals


    Download logo

    The upcoming African Mining Week (AMW) conference (http://apo-opa.co/3I0IzOl) – scheduled for October 1–3, 2025, in Cape Town – will spotlight how Merger & Acquisition (M&A) deals are propelling the continent’s copper industry forward. A power chat will take place, titled The Copper Scramble: How Mergers are Reshaping the Global Supply Chain. The session is expected to unpack the impact M&A deals have had and will continue to play on Africa’s copper industry, highlighting recent deals and investment opportunities across the market.

    Driven by the global energy transition and the demands of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, African countries are leveraging the surge in copper demand to boost investments across the value chain. Strengthened policies, underexplored mining acreage and emerging investment opportunities have enticed a string of M&A activity, particularly across major copper producers in Africa. The AMW 2025 session on copper will explore how recent mergers are driving production across select markets.

    African Mining Week serves as a premier platform for exploring the full spectrum of mining opportunities across Africa. The event is held alongside the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies 2025 conference from October 1-3 in Cape Town. Sponsors, exhibitors and delegates can learn more by contacting sales@energycapitalpower.com.

    Striving to produce three million tons of copper per annum by 2031, Zambia – the continent’s second-largest copper producer – has witnessed several impactful M&A deals recently. These include the $1.1 billion acquisition of the Mopani Mine in 2024 made by UAE-based International Resource Holdings (http://apo-opa.co/4jZBWJN), set to increase copper production to 300,000 tons within three years, and China’s JCHX Mining Management (http://apo-opa.co/3Ttgthj) acquisition of the Lubambe Mine, which will see $300 million injected to increase production. U.S.-based startup KoBold Metals has also committed over $2 billion following its acquisition of the Dumbwa and Konkola West projects, further accelerating Zambia’s copper output ambitions. Other international players, including Mercuria and Patriot Lithium, have also entered the Zambian market via M&A deals, aiming to tap into the mineral-rich Central African Copperbelt.

     In Botswana, recent M&A deals aim to unlock the potential of the Kalahari Copper Belt, which stretches into Namibia. Mining firm BHP secured stakes in Cobre Limited in March 2025, gaining access to Tier 1 copper assets in Botswana. The company plans to invest $25 million in exploration, including seismic surveys and deep diamond drilling, to assess resource potential. Additionally, China’s MMG Limited (http://apo-opa.co/4jYVNIZ) has announced a $700 million investment to double output at the Khoemacau Mine after acquiring it from Canada’s Cuprous Capital in 2024.

    As Africa continues to attract global investment and deepen strategic partnerships, AMW 2025 will serve as a vital platform to connect international investors with high-value M&A opportunities, reinforcing Africa’s position as a critical player in the global copper supply chain.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Marriott International announces plans to add more than 50 properties and over 9,000 rooms to its Africa portfolio by the end of 2027

    From the Future Hospitality Summit Africa in Cape Town, South Africa, Marriott International, Inc. (Nasdaq: MAR) today announced plans to expand its operations in Africa with the anticipated addition of over 50 properties and more than 9,000 rooms by the end of 2027.  The company’s growth strategy includes the expected entry into five markets – Cape Verde, Cote d’Ivoire, The Democratic Republic of Congo, Madagascar and Mauritania. The planned expansion aims to further strengthen the company’s footprint across the continent where its current operating portfolio encompasses nearly 150 properties and 26,000 rooms across 20 countries and 22 brands.

    “We are witnessing a transformation of Africa’s tourism sector driven by visionary government agendas, substantial infrastructure development, enhanced regional and international connectivity and diversified travel experiences, all of which are laying the foundation for a thriving hospitality sector,” said Jerome Briet, Chief Development Officer, Europe, Middle East & Africa, Marriott International. “With our renowned portfolio of brands, world-class distribution platform and award-winning travel programme, Marriott Bonvoy, we continue to drive robust expansion opportunities with owners and franchisees across Africa and remain committed to supporting the growth of its tourism sector.”

    Marriott’s planned expansion aims to enhance the strategic development of the company’s luxury, premium and select-service portfolio across key and emerging destinations in Africa. The company’s growth across the continent is expected to be largely driven by its select-service brands, including Protea Hotels by Marriott and Four Points by Sheraton, and a strong consumer demand for distinctive, high-quality hospitality experiences. Tanzania, Egypt, Morocco, Kenya and Nigeria are the highest growth markets for the company in the continent, making up more than half of the projects slated to open in the next two years. Conversions and adaptive reuse opportunities are also anticipated to continue to drive meaningful growth for the company, representing more than 30 percent of the anticipated African additions by the end of 2027.  The company is also seeing an increased appetite for branded residential projects across the continent.

    Karim Cheltout, Senior Vice President – Development, Middle East & Africa, Marriott International added, “Africa is home to emerging marketplaces that offer significant growth opportunities across major gateway cities, commercial centres, safari circuits and resort destinations. Through our diverse range of extraordinary brands, we are in a position to work with developers to offer high quality accommodations along with distinct and innovative travel experiences that resonate with today’s rapidly evolving consumer.”

    North and East Africa Fuel Expansion Plans for the Continent

    Marriott is witnessing strong growth momentum in the North and East Africa regions, which together account for more than 60 percent of the company’s planned additions in Africa by the end of 2027.  Egypt and Morocco are expected to lead the expansion for Marriott in North Africa. Plans in Egypt include the anticipated debut of Aloft Hotels in the continent, with the opening of Aloft Ghazala Bay situated in the North Coast of the country expected in 2027.  More than 50 percent of the company’s expected additions in Egypt by the end of 2027 are conversion or adaptive reuse projects. Expansion highlights for Morocco include the anticipated market debut of AC Hotels by Marriott with a scheduled opening in Casablanca in 2027.

    In East Africa, the company continues to see growth momentum with safari lodges and camps spurred by a growing appeal for adventure and outdoor travel. Following the successful opening of JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge in 2023, the company is slated to open six safari properties across the region by the end of 2027, including The Ritz-Carlton, Masai Mara Safari Camp (Kenya), and Mapito Safari Camp, Serengeti, Autograph Collection (Tanzania) – both of which are scheduled to open this year.

    Marriott’s portfolio in Tanzania is anticipated to more than double by the end of 2027 while in Kenya the company plans to open five properties including the debut of Courtyard by Marriott with two expected openings in Nairobi in 2027. Growth plans in Uganda include the country’s first Marriott Hotel and Marriott Executive Apartments with scheduled openings in Kampala by the end of this year.

    Demand for Premium and Select Accommodation Remains Strong in West Africa

    By the end of 2027, the company expects to add six properties in Nigeria, its largest growth market in the West Africa region. Plans include the introduction of Courtyard by Marriott in the country with anticipated openings in Abuja within the next two years, and the continued expansion of Protea Hotels by Marriott and Marriott Hotels.

    Marriott is also slated to enter three new markets in West Africa in the next two years. Four Points by Sheraton Sao Vicente Resort is anticipated to open this year, marking the company’s debut in Cape Verde. Marriott is also expected to enter Côte d’Ivoire in 2027, with an Autograph Collection Hotel located in Assinie-Mafia, and Mauritania with a Sheraton Hotel situated in Nouakchott, which is expected to open later this year.

    Growth across Southern and Central Africa Remains Steady

    The company’s largest market in Africa, South Africa, is expected to see an expansion of the Autograph Collection Hotels brand portfolio with the opening of Morea House in Cape Town this year, followed by the anticipated addition of a property within Kruger National Park in 2026.  Marriott also plans to enter The Democratic Republic of Congo by the end of this year with a Protea Hotel by Marriott and Four Points by Sheraton in Kinshasa. The company is also expected to make its debut in Madagascar with the opening of a Delta Hotels by Marriott this year and a Protea Hotel by Marriott anticipated in 2026 in Antananarivo. The company’s planned expansion also includes the anticipated debut of Le Méridien in Cameroon in 2027.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Bench.

    Note on Forward-Looking Statements:
    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of United States federal securities laws, including statements related to expected property openings, additions and portfolio growth; entry into new markets and brand debuts in certain markets; our expectations regarding growth opportunities; demand trends and expectations, including demand for certain offering types; and similar statements concerning anticipated future events and expectations that are not historical facts. We caution you that these statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to numerous evolving risks and uncertainties that we may not be able to accurately predict or assess, including the risk factors that we identify in our U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission filings, including our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K or Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. Any of these factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the expectations we express or imply in this press release. We make these forward-looking statements as of the date of this press release and undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise these statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    Media contacts:
    Chandan Belani
    Senior Director of Communications
    MEA & Development PR, EMEA
    Marriott International
    Chanan.Belani@marriott.com

    Birgit Deibele
    Senior Director of Communications
    Sub-Saharan Africa
    Marriott International
    Birgit.Deibele@marriott.com

    Connect with us on:
    Facebook: (https://apo-opa.co/4n4mOxc)
    X: (https://apo-opa.co/4ebSpcr)
    Instagram: (https://apo-opa.co/43O8p0J)

    About Marriott International:
    Marriott International, Inc. (Nasdaq: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of nearly 9,500 properties across more than 30 leading brands in 144 countries and territories. Marriott operates, franchises, and licenses hotel, residential, timeshare, and other lodging properties all around the world. The company offers Marriott Bonvoy®, its highly awarded travel platform. For more information, please visit our website at www.Marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.MarriottNewsCenter.com. 

    Marriott encourages investors, the media, and others interested in the company to review and subscribe to the information Marriott posts on its investor relations website at www.Marriott.com/investor or Marriott’s news center website at www.MarriottNewsCenter.com, which may be material. The contents of these websites are not incorporated by reference into this press release or any report or document Marriott files with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, and any references to the websites are intended to be inactive textual references only.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • Centre approves ₹2,006 crore for Himachal’s post-disaster recovery

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Centre has approved over ₹2,000 crore in financial assistance to Himachal Pradesh for recovery and reconstruction work after landslides and cloudbursts caused widespread damage across the state during the 2023 monsoon.

    The decision was taken by a high-level committee chaired by Union Home Minister Amit Shah. The committee, which includes the finance minister, agriculture minister and vice chairperson of NITI Aayog, cleared the proposal under the Recovery and Reconstruction funding window of the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF).

    Out of the total assistance, ₹1,504.80 crore will be provided as the central share from the NDRF. This is in addition to the ₹633.73 crore that was approved earlier by the Ministry of Home Affairs on December 12, 2023, as part of the initial response to the disaster.

    “The Government of India, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, remains committed to supporting states in times of natural disasters,” the Home Ministry said in a statement.

    Besides Himachal Pradesh, the Centre has also cleared recovery packages for other states. Uttarakhand received ₹1,658.17 crore in the wake of the Joshimath land subsidence, while ₹555.27 crore was sanctioned for Sikkim after a glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) last year.

    In addition to recovery funds, the Centre has approved mitigation projects worth ₹7,253.51 crore aimed at tackling a range of hazards. These include ₹3,075.65 crore for urban flood management, ₹1,000 crore for landslides, ₹150 crore for GLOFs, ₹818.92 crore for forest fires, ₹186.78 crore for lightning, and ₹2,022.16 crore for drought mitigation.

    According to government data, in the current financial year (2024–25), ₹20,264.40 crore has been released to 28 states under the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF), and ₹5,160.76 crore has been disbursed to 19 states under the NDRF.

    Additionally, ₹4,984.25 crore from the State Disaster Mitigation Fund (SDMF) and ₹719.72 crore from the National Disaster Mitigation Fund (NDMF) have been released to various states.

  • Centre approves ₹2,006 crore for Himachal’s post-disaster recovery

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Centre has approved over ₹2,000 crore in financial assistance to Himachal Pradesh for recovery and reconstruction work after landslides and cloudbursts caused widespread damage across the state during the 2023 monsoon.

    The decision was taken by a high-level committee chaired by Union Home Minister Amit Shah. The committee, which includes the finance minister, agriculture minister and vice chairperson of NITI Aayog, cleared the proposal under the Recovery and Reconstruction funding window of the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF).

    Out of the total assistance, ₹1,504.80 crore will be provided as the central share from the NDRF. This is in addition to the ₹633.73 crore that was approved earlier by the Ministry of Home Affairs on December 12, 2023, as part of the initial response to the disaster.

    “The Government of India, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, remains committed to supporting states in times of natural disasters,” the Home Ministry said in a statement.

    Besides Himachal Pradesh, the Centre has also cleared recovery packages for other states. Uttarakhand received ₹1,658.17 crore in the wake of the Joshimath land subsidence, while ₹555.27 crore was sanctioned for Sikkim after a glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) last year.

    In addition to recovery funds, the Centre has approved mitigation projects worth ₹7,253.51 crore aimed at tackling a range of hazards. These include ₹3,075.65 crore for urban flood management, ₹1,000 crore for landslides, ₹150 crore for GLOFs, ₹818.92 crore for forest fires, ₹186.78 crore for lightning, and ₹2,022.16 crore for drought mitigation.

    According to government data, in the current financial year (2024–25), ₹20,264.40 crore has been released to 28 states under the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF), and ₹5,160.76 crore has been disbursed to 19 states under the NDRF.

    Additionally, ₹4,984.25 crore from the State Disaster Mitigation Fund (SDMF) and ₹719.72 crore from the National Disaster Mitigation Fund (NDMF) have been released to various states.

  • Axiom Mission 4 launch to ISS rescheduled for June 22

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    NASA has once again rescheduled the launch of the fourth private astronaut mission to the International Space Station (ISS), Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4), to no earlier than June 22.

    The decision comes as NASA, in collaboration with Axiom Space and SpaceX, continues to evaluate recent repair work conducted in the aft (rear) segment of the ISS’s Russian Zvezda service module.

    Originally scheduled for May 29, the launch has been deferred multiple times. It was first deferred to June 8, then to June 10, June 11, and June 19.

    The crew is now scheduled to lift off aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

    ISRO confirmed the revised launch timeline in a statement on X: “Teams from @isro, Poland, and Hungary engaged in a detailed discussion with @Axiom_Space regarding the probable launch timeline of Axiom Mission 4. Following this, @Axiom_Space held consultations with @NASA and @SpaceX to assess multiple readiness parameters. Based on the readiness status of the @SpaceX Falcon 9 launch vehicle, the Dragon spacecraft, repairs in the Zvezda module of the @Space_Station, ascent corridor weather conditions, and the health and preparedness of the crew in quarantine, @Axiom_Space has informed that the next probable launch date is 22 June 2025.”

    Union Minister of State for Science and Technology Jitendra Singh also confirmed the postponement of Axiom-4 on X. He said, “Update | Axiom Mission 04 to International Space Station (ISS). After assessing the key parameters including Module Fitness, Crew Health, Weather etc… Axiom Space has indicated that 22 June 2025 may be the next likely launch date of Axiom-04 Mission carrying, among others, the Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, to the International Space Station. Further updates, if any, shall be shared accordingly.”

    The Ax-4 mission marks another milestone in the growing field of commercial spaceflight, showcasing international collaboration and private sector innovation. The mission will be led by Peggy Whitson, a veteran former NASA astronaut and now Director of Human Spaceflight at Axiom Space. She will serve as the mission commander.

    Joining Whitson on the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft are three other astronauts: Shubhanshu Shukla, an astronaut from the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), who will serve as the mission’s pilot; Sławosz Uznanski-Wiśniewski, a Polish project astronaut from the European Space Agency (ESA); and Tibor Kapu from Hungary—both serving as mission specialists.

    Once aboard the ISS, Shukla will conduct pioneering experiments related to food and space nutrition. These experiments, developed through a collaboration between ISRO and the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), with support from NASA, aim to enhance understanding of sustainable life-support systems—a crucial aspect of future long-duration space travel.

    Indian Air Force Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla will become the second Indian to travel to space after Rakesh Sharma’s 1984 mission.

    The Ax-4 mission is Axiom Space’s fourth private astronaut flight to the ISS. The Ax-4 crew includes astronauts from India, Poland, and Hungary. According to Axiom, this will be the first government-sponsored human spaceflight for the three nations since the 1980s.

    (With inputs from IANS)

  • Axiom Mission 4 launch to ISS rescheduled for June 22

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    NASA has once again rescheduled the launch of the fourth private astronaut mission to the International Space Station (ISS), Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4), to no earlier than June 22.

    The decision comes as NASA, in collaboration with Axiom Space and SpaceX, continues to evaluate recent repair work conducted in the aft (rear) segment of the ISS’s Russian Zvezda service module.

    Originally scheduled for May 29, the launch has been deferred multiple times. It was first deferred to June 8, then to June 10, June 11, and June 19.

    The crew is now scheduled to lift off aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

    ISRO confirmed the revised launch timeline in a statement on X: “Teams from @isro, Poland, and Hungary engaged in a detailed discussion with @Axiom_Space regarding the probable launch timeline of Axiom Mission 4. Following this, @Axiom_Space held consultations with @NASA and @SpaceX to assess multiple readiness parameters. Based on the readiness status of the @SpaceX Falcon 9 launch vehicle, the Dragon spacecraft, repairs in the Zvezda module of the @Space_Station, ascent corridor weather conditions, and the health and preparedness of the crew in quarantine, @Axiom_Space has informed that the next probable launch date is 22 June 2025.”

    Union Minister of State for Science and Technology Jitendra Singh also confirmed the postponement of Axiom-4 on X. He said, “Update | Axiom Mission 04 to International Space Station (ISS). After assessing the key parameters including Module Fitness, Crew Health, Weather etc… Axiom Space has indicated that 22 June 2025 may be the next likely launch date of Axiom-04 Mission carrying, among others, the Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, to the International Space Station. Further updates, if any, shall be shared accordingly.”

    The Ax-4 mission marks another milestone in the growing field of commercial spaceflight, showcasing international collaboration and private sector innovation. The mission will be led by Peggy Whitson, a veteran former NASA astronaut and now Director of Human Spaceflight at Axiom Space. She will serve as the mission commander.

    Joining Whitson on the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft are three other astronauts: Shubhanshu Shukla, an astronaut from the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), who will serve as the mission’s pilot; Sławosz Uznanski-Wiśniewski, a Polish project astronaut from the European Space Agency (ESA); and Tibor Kapu from Hungary—both serving as mission specialists.

    Once aboard the ISS, Shukla will conduct pioneering experiments related to food and space nutrition. These experiments, developed through a collaboration between ISRO and the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), with support from NASA, aim to enhance understanding of sustainable life-support systems—a crucial aspect of future long-duration space travel.

    Indian Air Force Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla will become the second Indian to travel to space after Rakesh Sharma’s 1984 mission.

    The Ax-4 mission is Axiom Space’s fourth private astronaut flight to the ISS. The Ax-4 crew includes astronauts from India, Poland, and Hungary. According to Axiom, this will be the first government-sponsored human spaceflight for the three nations since the 1980s.

    (With inputs from IANS)

  • Piyush Goyal visits UK to boost economic ties, fast-track India–UK FTA implementation

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal is on a two-day official visit to the United Kingdom from June 18 to 19, aimed at strengthening India–UK economic relations and expediting the implementation of the bilateral Free Trade Agreement (FTA).

    The visit follows the announcement of the successful conclusion of the India–UK FTA by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer on May 6.

    “Goyal’s visit aims to accelerate bilateral engagements, harness emerging opportunities, and lay a robust foundation for a forward-looking, resilient, and mutually beneficial economic relationship,” the Commerce Ministry said in a statement.

    During the visit, Goyal will hold key meetings with UK Secretary of State for Business and Trade Jonathan Reynolds to review ongoing FTA negotiations and outline a time-bound roadmap for its conclusion. He will also meet UK Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves to discuss financial cooperation and investment promotion.

    Additionally, the Minister will engage with UK Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport Lisa Nandy to explore partnerships in creative and innovation-driven sectors.

    Goyal is scheduled to participate in several high-level sessions at the India Global Forum (IGF), including a roundtable titled ‘From Agreement to Action: UK–India FTA’, which will bring together global business leaders and investors to discuss the strategic direction of bilateral trade ties.

    As part of his business outreach, Goyal will interact with top CEOs and industry leaders from key sectors such as fintech, logistics, shipping, and advanced manufacturing to promote cross-border investment and collaboration.

    The visit reinforces India’s strategic focus on transforming its trade relationship with the UK into a robust, inclusive, and sustainable economic partnership.

  • Piyush Goyal visits UK to boost economic ties, fast-track India–UK FTA implementation

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal is on a two-day official visit to the United Kingdom from June 18 to 19, aimed at strengthening India–UK economic relations and expediting the implementation of the bilateral Free Trade Agreement (FTA).

    The visit follows the announcement of the successful conclusion of the India–UK FTA by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer on May 6.

    “Goyal’s visit aims to accelerate bilateral engagements, harness emerging opportunities, and lay a robust foundation for a forward-looking, resilient, and mutually beneficial economic relationship,” the Commerce Ministry said in a statement.

    During the visit, Goyal will hold key meetings with UK Secretary of State for Business and Trade Jonathan Reynolds to review ongoing FTA negotiations and outline a time-bound roadmap for its conclusion. He will also meet UK Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves to discuss financial cooperation and investment promotion.

    Additionally, the Minister will engage with UK Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport Lisa Nandy to explore partnerships in creative and innovation-driven sectors.

    Goyal is scheduled to participate in several high-level sessions at the India Global Forum (IGF), including a roundtable titled ‘From Agreement to Action: UK–India FTA’, which will bring together global business leaders and investors to discuss the strategic direction of bilateral trade ties.

    As part of his business outreach, Goyal will interact with top CEOs and industry leaders from key sectors such as fintech, logistics, shipping, and advanced manufacturing to promote cross-border investment and collaboration.

    The visit reinforces India’s strategic focus on transforming its trade relationship with the UK into a robust, inclusive, and sustainable economic partnership.

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Lesley Cowley OBE appointed as Chair of Building Digital UK

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Lesley Cowley OBE appointed as Chair of Building Digital UK

    Lesley Cowley OBE has been appointed by Technology Secretary Peter Kyle to chair Building Digital UK (BDUK).

    Lesley Cowley OBE has been appointed by Technology Secretary Peter Kyle to chair Building Digital UK (BDUK) – the government agency responsible for rolling out fast and reliable broadband and mobile coverage to hard-to-reach places across the UK.

    The British businesswoman is widely regarded as an accomplished leader in the digital and technology sectors, offering decades of experience leading a variety of public services and businesses.

    The role will see Lesley advise and support BDUK’s executive team on the delivery of BDUK’s two main programmes: Project Gigabit, the government’s rollout of lightning-fast broadband to areas that would otherwise be stuck with slower speeds, and the Shared Rural Network, a joint programme with mobile network operators to boost 4G mobile coverage in rural communities all over the country.

    Chair of BDUK Lesley Cowley OBE said:

    It is a privilege to join Building Digital UK at such a pivotal moment in its journey. The challenge of ensuring every corner of the UK benefits from fast, reliable digital infrastructure is one I am deeply passionate about.

    BDUK is a critical enabler of the Prime Minister’s Plan for Change, helping to grow the economy while ensuring communities are not left behind in the digital age. Working alongside the talented team at BDUK, we will continue to deliver on our mission of creating a more connected, inclusive, and digitally empowered nation.

    Technology Secretary Peter Kyle said:

    Lesley’s commitment to making a positive difference to public facing services, together with her track record in leading digital transformation and delivering innovative solutions, make her an outstanding choice for Chair of Building Digital UK.

    She will be instrumental in helping us deliver on our growth mission, by continuing to drive forward our ambitious plans for better connectivity across the every part of UK, making communities and businesses better off.

    Lesley will take up the post on 1 July 2025, taking over from Hazel Hobbs who has served as interim Chair since August 2024.

    Her previous executive career culminated in her role as Chief Executive Officer of Nominet, the .uk domain name registry, where for over a decade she led significant growth and evolution from a technical organisation into a key player in the global internet space. She was appointed OBE in recognition of her services to the internet and digital economy.

    In her subsequent career, Lesley was the first Chair of the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), Chair of Companies House and Lead Non-Executive Director and then first ever Chair of The National Archives. Her current roles include Chair of ACL Ltd and a Non-Executive Director of Public Digital Ltd., both private companies.

    She was the Institute of Directors UK NED of the Year Winner, 2019 and has a strong track record of driving technology transformation and customer-first approaches.

    ENDS

    Notes to editors

    Chair appointment

    The appointment is for a term of three years.

    Building Digital UK

    Building Digital UK (BDUK) is an executive agency of the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT). It is responsible for the rollout of gigabit-capable broadband and the expansion of 4G mobile coverage in hard-to-reach areas of the UK. BDUK works with suppliers and communities to ensure that people can access fast and reliable digital connectivity that can transform their lives and drive economic growth.

    Project Gigabit

    Project Gigabit is a government-funded programme to enable hard-to-reach communities to access fast, reliable gigabit-capable broadband. It targets homes and businesses that are not included in broadband suppliers’ commercial plans, reaching parts of the UK that might otherwise miss out on upgrades to next-generation speeds.

    The connections delivered by Project Gigabit will benefit rural and remote communities, as well as tackling pockets of poor connectivity in urban areas. Project Gigabit is crucial to the government’s mission to break down barriers to opportunity and kickstart economic growth across the country.

    Shared Rural Network

    Jointly funded by the government and the UK’s main mobile network operators, the Shared Rural Network is delivering new 4G coverage to places where there is either limited or no 4G coverage at all.

    The public and private investment in a shared network of phone masts is driving increases in coverage across all four nations, with the biggest coverage improvements in rural parts of Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales.

    Updates to this page

    Published 18 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: More support for care-experienced young people

    Source: Scottish Government

    Children (Care, Care Experience and Services Planning) Bill published.

    Legislative proposals to improve the experiences of children and young people in Scotland’s care system have been published in a Bill introduced to Parliament.

    The Children (Care, Care Experience and Services Planning) (Scotland) Bill proposes extending the aftercare support currently available for 16-to-26 year olds who were in care on their 16th birthday to those who had left care before that point – including providing help with accommodation, education, employment and wellbeing.

    If passed by Parliament, the legislation would also secure for people with care experience a right to access lifelong advocacy services, ensuring their voices are better heard throughout their care journey.

    Minister for Children, Young People and the Promise Natalie Don-Innes said:

    “This Bill puts the needs and rights of care-experienced children and young people at the heart of our care system.

    “By aiming to provide a legal right to access advocacy and expanding aftercare support, we are responding directly to what people with care experience have told us they need. 

    “This legislation marks a crucial step forward in keeping The Promise by 2030. It will ensure children and young people receive the compassionate and considerate care they need throughout their care journey, so that they grow up loved, safe, and respected.

    “I look forward to working closely with MSPs across parties in the months ahead to advance this Bill and ensure we meet our collective pledge to The Promise.”

    The Bill, which will now be scrutinised by MSPs, aims to support smoother transitions between children’s and adult services by establishing tripartite accountability between local councils, NHS boards, and integration joint boards for children’s services planning.

    The legislation includes proposed reforms of the Children’s Hearings system so it continues to meet the needs of children and families.

    It also aims to improve professional recognition of foster carers with a proposed national register to help enhance the quality of placements, alongside taking steps to remove profit from care.

    The Scottish Government will also develop new guidance with partners on the language of care to reduce stigma and improve how services communicate with those who have experience of care.

    This work will build on the improvements already made for care-experienced children and young people since Scotland first pledged to ‘Keep The Promise’ in 2020.

    Background

    The Scottish Government has introduced the Children (Care, Care Experience and Services Planning) (Scotland) Bill to the Scottish Parliament following extensive consultation and engagement, including with people with care experience and representative organisations.  Engagement with stakeholders will continue throughout the Parliamentary process.

    The most recent Promise Oversight Board report found Scotland is still on track to Keep the Promise by 2030.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Community Wealth Building Plans to Boost Economy

    Source: Scotland – City of Dundee

    Plans to boost the Dundee economy and support local jobs and growth by harnessing the power of Community Wealth Building are to be discussed by councillors. 

    A proposed Community Wealth Building Strategy and Action Plan maps out how the city council and key partners will look to help give people a stake in their future. 

    The strategy builds on work that has been ongoing in the city for a number of years and is designed to complement a range of existing activities that support sustainable economic growth in Dundee. 

    A report explains how Community Wealth Building uses the power and influence of major anchor partners to work collaboratively. This joint effort will maximise the economic and social power of their organisations as major employers, procurers of goods and services, financial institutions, land and property owners and economic drivers for the city. 

    Community Wealth Building would help to deliver Dundee Partnership priorities to reduce poverty and inequalities, tackle climate change and enable inclusive economic growth. The strategy covering 2025-30 is described as one of the building blocks to develop a wellbeing economy in Dundee. 

    The City Governance Committee will be told that since the council began developing its Community Wealth Building approach, the council has improved its ability to track and influence direct procurement spend.  

    In financial year 2023/24, 47% of procurement spend was in Dundee city, up 7% on last year’s figures. Dundee City Council is ranked 3rd nationally for local spend and above the national average of 30.7%.  

    Actions detailed in the strategy include working with partners to increase the amount of their procurement spend which is spent locally, and maximising local subcontractor and supplier spend from major capital programmes. 

    The document outlines how partners would use their position as major employers to promote the principles of Fair Work and continue to tackle Dundee’s low wage employment through promotion of the Real Living Wage as a practical tool to increase families’ incomes. 

    Supporting inclusive ownership is another method outlined to help grow wealth in the city. This recognises that some business models including social enterprise, cooperative or employee-owned business are better at retaining wealth within a local area.   

    The City Governance Committee is being asked to approve the strategy at its meeting on Monday June 23. 

    Depute Convener Cllr Willie Sawers said: “Community Wealth Building focuses on local people and supporting local businesses, to drive wealth back into the community. 

    “Dundee partners have made good progress so far, as can be seen by the success of our Living Wage campaign. 

    “But there is still much more we can all do to take forward this new strategy to ensure that local economic development can have the maximum impact on communities and people’s lives. 

    “This is about making the city a better place for everyone by helping to increase opportunities, reduce unemployment and address issues like deprivation and poverty, as well as the climate emergency.” 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: SIXEP at 40

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    SIXEP at 40

    A workhorse of the Sellafield site is celebrating 40 years of reducing our environmental impact.

    Site Ion Exchange Effluent Plant (SIXEP), Sellafield site

    Sellafield’s Site Ion Exchange Effluent Plant (SIXEP) reached a historic milestone this month as it clocked up four decades of safe, dependable operations.

    Best described as the kidney of Sellafield, the plant plays a vital role in receiving and filtering contaminated water from a range of nuclear buildings and processes.

    Water used to store spent nuclear fuel and effluents from legacy waste stores and clean-up operations is piped into the plant and filtered to remove radioactive ions like caesium and strontium.

    As a result, SIXEP has had a huge positive impact on our environmental performance at Sellafield, removing 99.9% of the radioactive ions from the water so it can be safely discharged to sea.

    Learn more about SIXEP and the ion exchange process

    Originally constructed with a 30-year lifespan, teams operate the plant 24 hours per day, 365 days per year and have kept it operational with minimal down time since it first came online in May 1985.

    They’ve processed more than 30 million cubic metres of water—enough to supply every household in the UK for three days – and removed over 130,000 TBq of radioactivity.

    They’ve also had to adapt to changing priorities and regulations at the site over the years but have risen to every challenge to meet demand and keep the site safe and productive.

    Roddy Miller, Sellafield Ltd’s chief operating officer, said:

    For four decades SIXEP has been a constant at Sellafield, quietly doing its job and making a big difference in protecting the environment and supporting operations across the site.

    This anniversary is a chance to reflect on everything that’s been achieved in that time, not just by the plant but by the people behind it.

    I want to congratulate and thank everyone who has contributed to the safe and successful operation of SIXEP in the past and today. I know its future is in good hands.

    Mark Wareing, programme manager at the NDA, has been with the NDA since its inception and has been closely involved in SIXEP at Sellafield during that time. He said:

    Since the inception of the NDA 20 years ago, SIXEP performance has been central to NDA’s mission in supporting electricity generation and addressing some of the UK’s and Europe’s most significant nuclear clean-up challenges.

    The performance of the plant over the last 40 years of operations is a testament to the engineers who designed the facility and the dedication, expertise and ingenuity of the people who operate and maintain it.

    I have dedicated a large portion of my career to supporting the remediation of the legacy ponds and silos at Sellafield and, without SIXEP, the great progress that has been delivered to date could not have been achieved.

    Demand for SIXEP is set to continue until the 2060’s as the site’s clean-up mission and fuel storage programmes progress, so we’re constructing the SIXEP Continuity Plant (SCP) to ensure it can keep doing its vital work.

    SCP will integrate seamlessly with the existing plant to provide new sand bed filters and ion exchange vessels, as well as additional storage and waste management capabilities.

    It’s one of our major construction projects at Sellafield being delivered by the Programme and Project Partners and is on course to be operational in 2029.

    The SCP project team recently celebrated a significant delivery milestone as they completed the manufacture of 14 bespoke pump and valve modules that will form the inner workings of the plant.

    This was supported by an extensive supply chain including West Cumberland Engineering Ltd who completed the final module manufacturing, intricate connecting pipework, and welds.

    Once commissioned, these key components will work together to treat effluent from legacy buildings across the site including the First-Generation Magnox Storage Pond and Magnox Swarf Storage Silo.

    This will help us to maintain our high standards of environmental safety and operational efficiency for many years to come.

    Further reading

    SIXEP case study

    SIXEP Continuity Plant case study

    Updates to this page

    Published 18 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ18: Bona vacantia properties

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    LCQ18: Bona vacantia properties 
    Question:
     
    There are views that along with the demographic changes in Hong Kong, it is expected that the number of bona vacantia properties will continue to increase, which could pose potential challenges to the allocation and management of social resources. It has been reported that in recent years, some gangs have exploited bona vacantia properties to obtain benefits illegally, such as by committing unlawful alienation of the properties, using them for loans or even applying for adverse possession of them, indicating that there are gaps in the regulation of bona vacantia properties. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) of the specific number of bona vacantia properties currently under the management of the Lands Department (i.e. those properties originally held by a company that has been dissolved under the Companies (Winding Up and Miscellaneous Provisions) Ordinance (Cap. 32) or the Companies Ordinance (Cap. 622)); the details of the Government’s disposal of such properties in the past five years (including the progress of disposal);
     
    (2) whether it has compiled statistics on the number of bona vacantia properties in Hong Kong which were once held in personal names; whether the Government has currently put in place a relevant mechanism to dispose of such properties; if not, whether it will consider introducing dedicated measures or mechanisms to prevent such bona vacantia properties from being used for unlawful acts; if so, of the details, and whether the Government will impose administrative charges in the process of disposing of such bona vacantia properties and set clear charging standards in this regard; and
     
    (3) as there are views that the management of bona vacantia properties (including those bona vacantia properties which were once held by private individuals or companies) involves the powers and responsibilities of a number of government departments, whether the Government has put in place a cross-departmental co-ordination mechanism to enhance the efficiency of such work; if not, whether it has plans to further strengthen the cross-departmental collaboration on such work?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
    Bona vacantia properties (BVPs) generally refer to some real properties originally owned by individuals or companies, but the individual owners of properties subsequently dies and no one claims the estate, or the companies were liquidated and dissolved. In accordance with the prevailing laws, real properties owned by individuals or companies are handled by different ordinances to ensure that the rights and interests of the legal owners or successors of the properties will not be infringed and that the properties are properly handled when they become BVPs.
     
    Regarding the properties owned by individuals, the Probate and Administration Ordinance (Cap. 10) provides the jurisdiction of the court to handle matters relating to probate and administration of deceased’s estates, including the handling of unclaimed estates of a deceased person. If unclaimed estates involve property assets, the property will be disposed of in an appropriate manner, including sale.
     
    For properties owned by companies, in the course of winding up and dissolution, liquidators will sell properties owned by the companies to pay off outstanding liabilities. If a company, pursuant to the Companies Ordinance (Cap. 622) or the Companies (Winding Up and Miscellaneous Provisions) Ordinance (Cap. 32), completes the procedures for winding up and is about to dissolve, every property and right (such as including some properties that are yet to be sold in the market) vested in or held on trust for the company immediately before the dissolution is vested in the Government as bona vacantia. If such bona vacantia property is a land property, it will be managed by the Lands Department on behalf of the Government.
     
    In the past five years (from June 2020 to May 2025), records from the Land Registry show that the number of sales and purchase agreements for building units in Hong Kong was close to 260 000, while the Lands Department received about 50 new cases of BVPs. It can be seen that BVPs only account a very small portion of the overall property market.

    In response to the question raised by the Hon Doreen Kong, our reply in consultation with the Home and Youth Affairs Bureau is as follows:
     
    (1) As of now, the Lands Department has taken over 411 BVPs previously owned by companies, of which about 30 per cent cases are residential units, industrial units, shops and parking spaces. The remaining 70 per cent are the parts jointly owned with other property owners but inseparable, most of which have no market value and cannot be sold, such as external walls, rooftops, platforms, other common parts. As BVPs, especially the abovementioned 30 per cent cases, often involve unclear ownership, encumbrances or the need to first handle problems such as occupation of units, the Lands Department will carefully clarify the relevant legal rights and seek legal advice after receiving referrals from the Companies Registry, other government departments and the Court, etc. After confirming that the property is a BVP, the Lands Department will notify the Land Registry to add a remark that the property has been vested in the Government as bona vacantia, and choose the most appropriate means to dispose of the property. Generally speaking, if the BVPs are suitable for sale in the market (the appropriate cases among the abovementioned 30 per cent cases), the Lands Department will sell the property by tender. In the past five years (from June 2020 to May 2025), the Lands Department received about 50 new cases of BVPs. The Lands Department also sold 16 BVPs through tendering process in the past five years. As for the properties that cannot be sold (i.e. the abovementioned 70 per cent cases), these will continue to be managed by the Lands Department on behalf.
     
    (2) Section 16 of the Probate and Administration Ordinance (Cap. 10) stipulates the cases in which the Official Administrator, assisted by the Probate Registry, is entitled to administer the unclaimed estate of a deceased person as granted by the Court. If the unclaimed estate concerned involves property asset, the property will be disposed of as appropriate. For any unclaimed balance of deceased’s estate, including the money received from the sale of properties, the Official Administrator shall cause an advertisement to invite any claims to be made in accordance with section 23B of the Ordinance. If at the expiration of a period of five years from the date of first publication of such advertisement, the Official Administrator is of the opinion that no claim can reasonably be expected against the estate, the balance of the estate will be transferred to the general revenue of the Government. 
     
    Regarding the property fraud issue that the Hon Doreen Kong is concerned about, the current number of cases is still at a low level. Nevertheless, in response to some past fraud cases, the Land Registry will continue to maintain contact and collaboration with the Hong Kong Police Force to exchange information on suspected fraudulent transactions to prevent registrations for properties suspected to have been acquired through fraudulent means. The Property Alert service of the Land Registry will also send email notifications to registered users when the instruments for the sale or mortgage of properties are delivered to the Land Registry for registration.
     
    Besides, the Legislative Council is scrutinising the Registration of Titles and Land (Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill 2025. Under the Land Titles Ordinance (Cap. 585), the title registration system will be implemented on newly granted land first and the Land Registry will be empowered to take measures to reduce the risk of property fraud. Adverse possession will also not be applicable to newly granted land.
     
    (3) As mentioned above, it is not common for BVPs to arise. For BVPs previously owned by companies, the Companies Ordinance (Cap. 622) currently in force has clearly stipulated the circumstances under which the Government will take over BVPs, and the Lands Department, which is responsible for taking over BVPs, also has a well-established mechanism to properly handle these properties. Therefore, we believe that there is no need to set up an inter-departmental mechanism.
    Issued at HKT 15:30

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ7: Measures to combat telephone fraud

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by the Hon Duncan Chiu and a written reply by the Acting Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Dr Bernard Chan, in the Legislative Council today (June 18):

    Question:

         In recent years, the HKSAR Government has adopted diversified measures to actively combat telephone fraud, including introducing the Real-name Registration Programme for Subscriber Identification Module (SIM) Cards (RNR Programme) and the Hong Kong Police Force’s “Scameter+” and requiring local telecommunications service providers (TSPs) to play a voice alert message for calls made from newly activated pre-paid SIM (PPS) cards and block suspicious calls, as well as strengthening co-operation with Mainland and international law enforcement agencies. However, there are views pointing out that local telephone fraud cases have not shown a decreasing trend, causing inconvenience and disturbance to the public in their daily lives. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:

    (1) of the number of telephone fraud cases received by the Police from January to May this year, as well as the amount of money involved in such cases, the number of victims and their age distribution;

    (2) of the total number of PPS cards which have been rejected as the clients failed to provide information in compliance with the registration requirements since the introduction of the RNR Programme; the total number of the registration records of non-compliant PPS cards which have been cancelled by the TSPs, together with a breakdown and percentage by reason for non-compliance;

    (3) whether it has estimated the number of registered PPS cards resold in the market under the RNR Programme; of the authorities’ countermeasures currently in place against the resale practice concerned, and how they follow up cases of members of the public purchasing and using PPS cards that have long been registered by other persons;

    (4) as the 2024 Policy Address has mentioned that the Government would introduce a legislative amendment proposal into this Council to prohibit the resale of registered SIM cards with a view to further enhancing the RNR Programme, of the latest progress of such work and the legislative timetable;

    (5) of the accumulated downloads of “Scameter+” since its launch by the Police in February 2023 and the respective numbers of call alerts issued to users and local and non-local suspicious telephone numbers which the TSPs have been required to block; of the details and outcome of the Police’s follow-up actions in respect of such suspicious and blocked telephone numbers; and

    (6) whether it has comprehensively reviewed the effectiveness of the various measures introduced by the Government to combat telephone fraud; if so, of the results, and the measures in place to cope with the situation where the number of telephone fraud cases has not decreased, including whether it will adjust the existing overall strategy for combating telephone fraud, as well as introduce relevant enhancement measures and new measures?

    Reply:

    President,

         The Office of the Communications Authority (OFCA) has been devising and implementing a series of preventive measures from the perspective of telecommunications services to assist the Hong Kong Police Force (Police) in combating phone deception at the source. In response to the question raised by the Hon Duncan Chiu, having consulted the Security Bureau, OFCA and the Police, our consolidated reply is as follows:

         The Real-name Registration Programme for SIM Cards (RNR Programme) has been fully implemented since February 2023, requiring that all SIM cards issued and used locally (including SIM service plans and pre-paid SIM cards (PPS cards)) must complete real-name registration before service activation. Under the RNR Programme, OFCA has requested telecommunications service providers (TSPs) to conduct regular sampling checks on registered SIM card information, to step up verification of suspicious cases, and to refer cases suspected of violating the law to the Police for handling. If the users subject to sample checks are unable to verify their registered information in accordance with the instructions of the respective TSPs, the relevant PPS cards will be deregistered and cannot be used thereafter. As at end-April this year, around 4.71 million PPS cards were rejected for registration as the clients failed to provide information in compliance with the registration requirements (including cases where registration was done using a copy of an identity document and the information provided was inconsistent with the identity document, etc). Besides, the registration records of about 3.4 million non-compliant PPS cards have been deregistered (including cases where users failed to verify their identities as required during the TSPs’ sampling checks and were suspected of using forged documents for registration, etc). According to the information provided by the TSPs, the majority of deregistration was due to users failing to submit required identity documents for verification as required. OFCA does not maintain information on specific reasons for deregistration by breakdown.

         To enhance the effective implementation of the RNR Programme, OFCA has required the TSPs to adopt “iAM Smart” as the default registration method for Hong Kong identity card (HKID) holders. For non-HKID holders, their real-name registration information will be manually verified. Currently, provision of false information and/or false documents under the RNR Programme may constitute a criminal offence. OFCA does not maintain information on the resale of registered PPS cards in the market.

         In addition, the Police launched the mobile application “Scameter+” in February 2023 to help members of the public distinguish suspicious online platform accounts, payment accounts, phone numbers, email addresses, websites, etc, and to provide the public with anti-fraud tips. As at end-April this year, “Scameter+” had recorded over 960 000 downloads, 8.4 million searches in its search engine and 1 million alerts issued to members of the public. “Scameter+” has now been upgraded and is equipped with automatic detection functions. The Call Alert function and the Website Detection function within the mobile application will automatically identify scam calls and fraudulent websites. If potential fraud or cyber security risk is detected, “Scameter+” will issue a real-time notification, reminding users not to answer the call or browse the website. As at end-April this year, “Scameter+” had issued over 800 000 warnings about suspicious calls and websites to the public through its automatic function. Under OFCA’s co-ordination, the Police and major TSPs have established a mechanism where the TSPs will, based on the fraud records provided by the Police, block the telephone numbers suspected to be involved in deception cases and intercept suspicious website links as soon as possible. As at end-April this year, more than 50 000 website links and about 9 000 local and non-local phone numbers have been successfully blocked. The Police will also actively investigate cases related to these suspected scam phone numbers.

         Apart from the above-mentioned measures, OFCA has also required the TSPs to intercept suspicious calls starting with “+852”, send voice alerts or text messages to all mobile users for overseas calls prefixed with “+852”, and play voice alerts for newly activated PPS cards, as well as has launched the SMS Sender Registration Scheme to assist members of public in distinguishing the identity of the SMS senders. OFCA has also been conducting continuous market surveillance and strengthening publicity activities, as well as has launched the District Anti-Phone Deception Ambassador Scheme in January this year, appointing over 300 District Council members and staff members of their ward offices as District Anti-Phone Deception Ambassadors. Starting from May this year, OFCA has collaborated with District Anti-Phone Deception Ambassadors through community activities to further promote anti-scam messages.

         For telephone deception trends, the Police recorded a total of 1 816 telephone deception cases between January and April this year, averaging 454 cases per month and representing a significant 52.3 per cent decrease compared to the monthly average of 951 cases in the fourth quarter of 2024. The financial losses associated amounted to approximately HK$320 million, involving a total of 1 759 victims aged between 15 and 97. For telephone deception cases involving impersonation of customer service emerged since early last year, after focused enforcement efforts by the Police, the monthly average for the first four months this year dropped to approximately 190 cases, recording a decrease of over 80 per cent from the peak of about 1 110 cases in July 2024. These trends highlight the effectiveness of measures implemented by the Government in combating phone deception.

         The Government will continue to adopt a multi-pronged approach to combat phone deception and protect the interests of the public. Regarding anti-phone deception measures and the RNR Programme, with reference to the overall implementation experience and the Police’s provision of scam trends on criminal groups using PPS cards, the Government is reviewing the implementation effectiveness of relevant measures and overall operation of the RNR Programme, including reviewing the limit on the number of PPS cards, the arrangement for prohibiting the sale of registered SIM cards or using information of others to conduct real-name registration for profit making, etc. The Government aims to consult relevant Legislative Council Panel within this year.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Unmasking the ‘hidden curriculum’

    Source:

    18 June 2025

    They’re the subtle cues and behaviours that shape student success – easily picked up by local students, but often unfamiliar for those from refugee backgrounds.

    This Refugee Week, human rights and education experts at the University of South Australia are shining a light on the less visible challenges faced by students from refugee backgrounds: the ‘hidden curriculum’.

    In a recent study, UniSA researchers explain the ‘hidden curriculum’ as a set of implicit rules, values and behaviours that quietly shape the university experience – never formally taught, but essential for academic and social success

    “The ‘hidden curriculum’ is very real,” says UniSA’s Dr Snjezana Bilic. “It’s the unwritten, unspoken rules that guide student success – things like classroom behaviours, university processes, and what’s expected through group work, or where and how to seek help – these are key parts of the student experience.

    “Local students, who are acquainted with the dominant culture, are generally more familiar with aspects of the ‘hidden curriculum’; but refugee students have significantly different experiences with different ways of knowing and learning.

    “We know that refugee students have strong aspirations, but we also know that these can be offset by a range of obstacles, for example trauma, interrupted education, competing family priorities and language barriers. The last thing they need is to start university from a deficit position, so that’s where we are trying to help.”

    Globally, more than 123 million people have been forced to flee their homes due to persecution, conflict and violence.

    The researchers say that the ‘hidden curriculum’ should be explicitly taught to all students, but especially those from refugee backgrounds.

    To offset barriers created by the ‘hidden curriculum’ and enhance meaningful outcomes for students of refugee backgrounds, UniSA has created a Refugee Student Support Group with a team of Peer Support Officers who also act as ‘cultural brokers’ – helping students from refugee backgrounds navigate academic expectations and social norms.

    “We’ve seen how powerful peer support can be,” says co-researcher Dr Heidi Hetz.

    “When Peer Support Officers connect with our refugee students, they help build trust, strengthen engagement and help breakdown some of the barriers that students from refugee backgrounds face. And because this is peer-to-peer learning, both the student ‘teacher’ and the refugee student can connect and share knowledge.

    “Importantly, our Peer Support Officers also help refugee students understand the nuances of the ‘hidden curriculum’. They explain where to ask for help, how to access supports for assignment writing, as well as how to access other university services like counselling. They also explain how tutorials work, how you are encouraged to share your opinion or experiences, and how your point of view truly counts.”

    Dr Bilic says that tackling the hidden curriculum requires 360-degree support.

    “To embrace diversity, we must prioritise a more culturally responsive curriculum,” Dr Bilic says.

    “Not only do we need to incorporate examples, stories and traditions from a range of cultures, but we need to provide explicit instructions about what students need to do to engage in learning as well as scaffold their learning by providing support in structuring their assignments, teaching them how to study in classroom, to ask for help of teaching staff, as well as time management’.

    “We also need to recognise that learning the hidden curriculum takes time, especially for those who have experienced resettlement, trauma or disrupted education.

    “Critically, we need to recognise and acknowledge that a student’s lack of familiarity with the hidden curriculum reflects cultural differences, not their deficiency.”

    As Australia marks Refugee Week, UniSA experts say it’s time to recognise that the refugee experience doesn’t end at resettlement, and that belonging must be actively built, especially in educational settings.

    “Learning to study in a new country, in a new language, with new rules especially after trauma – is not easy,” Dr Bilic says. “But with understanding, structure and explicit support, we can decode the hidden curriculum and help all students feel like they belong.”

    …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

    Contacts for interview:  Dr Snjezana Bilic E: snjezana.bilic@unisa.edu.au
    Dr Heidi Hetz E: heidi.hetz@unisa.edu.au
    Media contact: Annabel Mansfield M: +61 479 182 489 E: Annabel.Mansfield@unisa.edu.au

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: The Sellafield Site Ion Exchange Effluent Plant (SIXEP)

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Case study

    The Sellafield Site Ion Exchange Effluent Plant (SIXEP)

    Thanks to the Site Ion Exchange Plant at Sellafield, we can remove the majority of radioactive isotopes from water used in our nuclear operations, ensuring that any water we discharge into the sea is safe and well within permitted discharge limits.

    What is the Site Ion Exchange Plant (SIXEP)?

    SIXEP filters and removes radioactive isotopes – such as Caesium and Strontium – from water that’s been used in nuclear operations across the Sellafield site so that those isotopes aren’t discharged into the sea.

    It is because of this work that people working at Sellafield affectionately refer to the plant as the kidneys of the site.

    SIXEP also keeps the pond in our Fuel Handling Plant cool, provides storage for sludge and spent ion exchange material, and processes sludge-rich, active liquors generated from hazard reduction activities in legacy facilities.

    The Fuel Handling Plant pond

    How does SIXEP work?

    We use water in many of our nuclear operations at Sellafield. For example, we use it to cool used nuclear fuel held in storage ponds, and we also utilise it for domestic purposes, such as heating and providing hot water within site facilities.

    Because it has been in contact with radioactive materials, it is inevitable that the water will contain radioactive isotopes and so it sent via an extensive system of pipes across the site to SIXEP.

    Inside SIXEP

    Once inside the plant, the water goes through 2 processes:

    • Sand Bed Filters: the water is collected in a tank, then pumped through large containers filled with sand. The sand acts as a filter, removing tiny particles. We capture and store these particles on the site.

    • Ion Exchange Beds: After sand filtration, the water passes through containers filled with Clinoptilolite, a natural mineral from the Mojave Desert in California. These ion exchange beds are highly effective, removing over 99.9% of the remaining radioactive caesium and strontium from the water.

    The impact of SIXEP

    SIXEP had an immediate impact on our environmental performance, massively reducing our radioactive discharges as soon as it started operations in 1985.

    Since then, SIXEP has processed more than 30 million cubic metres of water – enough to supply every household in the UK with water for around 3 days, or over 85 million household-days of use.

    The construction of SIXEP

    Our challenge

    • aging infrastructure: as a facility that has been operational since 1985, maintaining and upgrading aging infrastructure is a continuous challenge.
    • storage limitations: managing the storage of spent clinoptilolite waste and other by-products is an ongoing issue.
    • operational efficiency: ensuring the plant operates efficiently while meeting stringent environmental and safety standards requires constant attention and adaptation.

    Protecting the environment in the future – extending SIXEP

    To ensure we can continue to minimise our impact on the environment, we are extending SIXEP.

    The project – known as the SIXEP Continuity Plant (SCP) will integrate seamlessly with the existing plant, ensuring continued operations for decades to come by providing new sand bed filter and ion exchange vessels.

    The construction of SCP

    It also includes new facilities to manage spent Clinoptilolite waste, addressing current storage limitations and will be operational by 2030.

    Timeline

    1979 – Construction

    1985 – Active operations started

    2021 – SCP construction started

    2029 – SCP active commissioning starts

    2030 – SCP enters full active operations

    Updates to this page

    Published 18 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –