Category: DJF

  • MIL-OSI China: Almada rescues 10-man Argentina in 1-1 draw against Colombia

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

    Thiago Almada struck late as Argentina salvaged a 1-1 home draw against Colombia in their FIFA World Cup qualifier on Tuesday.

    Liverpool forward Luis Diaz gave the visitors the lead against the run of play when he cut inside from the left wing and skipped past three defenders before coolly firing a shot past Emiliano Martinez.

    The host was forced to play the last 25 minutes with 10 men after Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez was shown a straight red card for a dangerous challenge on Kevin Castano.

    Despite its numerical disadvantage, Argentina continued to dictate terms and pushed forward in search of an equalizer.

    Lyon midfielder Almada put his side on level terms nine minutes from time by receiving Exequiel Palacios’ pass and advancing into the box before drilling a low effort into the far corner.

    Reigning World Cup champion Argentina, which is already assured of a place at football’s showpiece tournament next year, remains top of South America’s qualifying group with 35 points, 13 ahead of sixth-placed Colombia.

    The top six teams earn direct entry to the World Cup while the seventh-ranked side advances to a playoff.

    Argentina will meet Venezuela and Ecuador in its last two qualifiers in September while Colombia will confront Bolivia and Venezuela.

    MIL OSI China News

  • PM Modi hails 11 years of infra revolution, calls it foundation for self-reliant India

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday lauded the massive infrastructure transformation that has taken place over the past 11 years, calling it a cornerstone of India’s growth and self-reliance.

    In a post on X, PM Modi said, “It’s been 11 Years Of Infra Revolution, with outstanding infrastructure being added that has enhanced India’s growth trajectory. From railways to highways, ports to airports, India’s rapidly expanding infra network is boosting ‘Ease of Living’ and enhancing prosperity.”

    The prime minister added that the country’s focus on next-generation infrastructure is rooted in sustainability and long-term planning. “It is laying the foundations of a self-reliant India,” he said.

    The PM outlined key aspects of this transformation, including the development of modern highways and ropeways, the unlocking of India’s maritime potential, and affordable air travel under the UDAN scheme. He also pointed to major upgrades in the rail sector, such as the rollout of Vande Bharat trains, the launch of the Amrit Bharat Express, and the modernisation of stations under the Amrit Bharat scheme.

    The BJP-led NDA government has completed 11 years in office, with infrastructure projects being a key focus of its development agenda. PM Modi, who assumed office on May 26, 2014, has described this period as a “transformative decade of development.”

    In celebration of this milestone, the government has been highlighting achievements across sectors — with infrastructure at the forefront as a symbol of India’s march towards becoming Viksit Bharat by 2047.

    IANS

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Neighbourhood-scale batteries charge ahead

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Our CBR is the ACT Government’s key channel to connect with Canberrans and keep you up-to-date with what’s happening in the city. Our CBR includes a monthly print edition, email newsletter and website.

    You can easily opt in or out of the newsletter subscription at any time.

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-Evening Report: Sanctioning extremist Israeli ministers is a start, but Australia and its allies must do more

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jessica Whyte, Scientia Associate Professor of Philosophy and ARC Future Fellow, UNSW Sydney

    The Australian government is imposing financial and travel sanctions on two far-right Israeli ministers: Itamar Ben-Gvir (the national security minister) and Bezalel Smotrich (finance minister).

    This is a significant development. While Australia has previously sanctioned seven individual Israeli settlers, Ben-Gvir and Smotrich are the most high-profile Israeli nationals to face such sanctions.

    Civil society organisations have long called for sanctions against these ministers and others in the Israeli cabinet.

    Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong previously rebuffed such calls by saying that “going it alone gets us nowhere”. These latest sanctions have been imposed by a coalition of five states: Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Norway and the United Kingdom.

    A joint statement by the foreign ministers of these countries says Ben Gvir and Smotrich “have incited extremist violence and serious abuses of Palestinian human rights.”

    Explaining the sanctions further, Wong told ABC Smotrich and Ben-Gvir are the “most extreme proponents of the unlawful and violent Israeli settlement enterprise”.

    A history of violent statements

    There is no doubt both men are extremists.

    Ben-Gvir, who is responsible for Israel’s police force, was convicted of racist incitement in 2007.

    As national security minister, he has handed out thousands of assault rifles to West Bank settlers. He has also boasted he’s worsened the “abominable conditions” of Palestinian prisoners.

    Smotrich has overseen a dramatic expansion of unlawful settlements in the West Bank. He’s vowed to annex the occupied Palestinian territory, in violation of international law.

    He has also complained no one would allow Israel “to cause two million civilians to die of hunger, even though it might be justified and moral until our hostages are returned.”

    Last month, he argued that “until the last hostage is returned, we should not even be sending water” to Gaza.

    The joint statement by the foreign ministers explains Ben-Gvir and Smotrich have been sanctioned for “inciting violence against Palestinians in the West Bank”.

    The statement notes these measures “cannot be seen in isolation from the catastrophe in Gaza”. However, it also goes on to express “unwavering support for Israel’s security” and vows to “continue to work with the Israeli government”.

    It does not note that the International Court of Justice has found Palestinians in Gaza are facing a plausible risk of genocide.

    Nor does it make clear Ben-Gvir and Smotrich are not bad apples; they are integral members of the far-right Israeli government that is responsible for the destruction of Gaza and the starvation of its people.

    Indeed, just this week, a UN independent fact-finding commission report found Israel was committing the “crime against humanity of extermination” in Gaza, among other war crimes.

    What are Magnitsky sanctions?

    Smotrich and Ben-Gvir have been sanctioned under Australia’s Autonomous Sanctions Act 2011. This act grants the foreign minister broad discretionary powers to impose sanctions.

    In 2021, the Australian government amended this act to allow the government to impose sanctions on specific “themes”, such as:

    • serious violations or serious abuses of human rights
    • threats to international peace and security
    • activities undermining good governance or the rule of law, including serious corruption.

    These targeted sanctions on human rights abuses are often called “Magnitsky-style sanctions” after the Russian lawyer Sergei Magnitsky, who died in custody after exposing serious corruption in Russia. They enable a government to freeze the assets of and impose travel bans on individuals and specific entities, not just countries.

    Since coming into force, Australia has imposed the Magnitsky-style sanctions on numerous Russian military leaders, members of Myanmar’s junta, and the commander in chief of the Iranian Army.

    But Australia does not only sanction individuals from these countries. It also imposes country-wide sanctions on Russia, Myanmar and Iran.

    These broader sanctions restrict all trade in arms, including weapons, ammunition, military vehicles and equipment, as well as spare parts and accessories.

    Australia can – and should – do more

    The Australian Centre for International Justice, which had lobbied the government to sanction Smotrich and Ben-Gvir, welcomed the decision. It called it:

    an important demonstration of Australia’s commitment to upholding international law and human rights.

    But the centre’s acting executive director, Lara Khider, stressed the need for further concrete action. This includes “the imposition of a comprehensive two-way arms embargo on Israel”.

    Indeed, sanctions are not just political or diplomatic tools that states can apply at their discretion. International law can require states to apply sanctions, such as through a resolution of the UN Security Council.

    Last July, the International Court of Justice declared that Israel’s occupation of the West Bank and Gaza, including its imposition of a regime of racial segregation, is unlawful.

    In that advisory opinion, the court also clarified the legal obligations of all states concerning Israel’s occupation of Palestine. Such obligations include the duty on all states to “take steps to prevent trade or investment relations that assist in the maintenance of the illegal situation”.

    Nothing less than a two-way trade and arms embargo is adequate now. Just as Australia imposes such sanctions on Russia, Myanmar and Iran, it must do the same for Israel.

    Jessica Whyte receives funding from the Australian Research Council. With Sara Dehm, she co-authored a submission to the 2024 inquiry into Australia’s sanctions regime which criticised Australia’s failure to impose sanctions on the state of Israel.

    Sara Dehm receives funding from the Australian Research Council. With Jessica Whyte, she co-authored a submission to the 2024 inquiry into Australia’s sanctions regime which criticised Australia’s failure to impose sanctions on the state of Israel.

    ref. Sanctioning extremist Israeli ministers is a start, but Australia and its allies must do more – https://theconversation.com/sanctioning-extremist-israeli-ministers-is-a-start-but-australia-and-its-allies-must-do-more-258688

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 2024 Vehicle Fuel Economy Guide and Vehicle Fuel Efficiency Ranking Released

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    To assist the public to select vehicles of high energy efficiency, the Energy Administration, Ministry of Economic Affairs, not only publishes monthly information online on the fuel efficiency of newly certified models, but also compiles these data annually into the “Vehicle Fuel Economy Guide”. To further encourage the public adoption of energy-saving and carbon-reducing electric vehicles, the “2024 Vehicle Fuel Economy Guide” also includes energy efficiency information of electric vehicles that have been tested and certified (please refer to the electric-vehicle pages).

    The top three vehicles in each fuel-saving vehicle ranking (non-electric) category in the 2024 Vehicle Fuel Economy Guide are shown below:

    Among passenger cars, the top three are all hybrid vehicles: Honda FIT A522H1502 1498c.c. A1 5D, LEXUS LBX HYBRID 1490c.c. CVT 5D and TOYOTA CAMRY HYBRID 2487c.c. CVT 4D, where the Honda FIT A522H1502 1498c.c. A1 5D manufactured by Honda Motor Co., Ltd., ranks first with a fuel economy of 26.9 km/L.

    Among commercial vehicles, the top three are TUCSON NX4H-C 1598c.c. A6 5D, TUCSON NX4H-A 1598c.c. A6 5D and CITROEN BERLINGO VAN (XL) 1499c.c. A8 5D (diesel), where the TUCSON NX4H-C 1598c.c. A6 5D manufactured by Sanyang Motor Co., Ltd., ranks atop the list with a fuel economy of 21.1 km/L.

    Among motorcycles (tested by “Fuel Economy Test Method for Motorcycles”), the top three are all from the HONDA SUPER CUB series, where the HONDA SUPER CUB 109.5c.c. M4 imported by RON-LI SUPER MOTORS CO., LTD., takes the top spot with a fuel economy of 95.9 km/L.

    According to the Energy Administration, to maximize energy-saving and carbon-reducing results for vehicles, it is important to not only carefully choose energy-saving vehicles but also to keep good driving habits and maintain vehicles in good conditions, such as reducing vehicle load, accelerating and decelerating smoothly, maintaining proper tire pressure and avoiding periods long idling. These are all effective ways of improving fuel economy.

    The Energy Administration also clarified that the energy efficiency values published in the 2024 Vehicle Fuel Economy Guide were measured under standardized laboratory conditions. In real world driving, fuel economy may be affected by various factors such as weather, road and traffic conditions, usage of air conditioning and individual driving habits. Therefore, the actual number of kilometers traveled per liter of gasoline (or diesel) or kilowatt-hour of electricity may be lower than the values shown in the Guide.

    The “2024 Vehicle Fuel Economy Guide” has been published on the Energy Administration’s official website (https://www.moeaea.gov.tw), and welcome to download. For some specific vehicle models, please visit the following website (https://auto.itri.org.tw) and click on the “Vehicle Energy Efficiency Inquiry” or “Energy Efficiency for Electric Vehicles”.

    Spokesperson: Deputy Director General, Chih-Wei Wu
    Energy Administration, Ministry of Economic Affairs
    Phone Number: 02-2775-7750
    Mobile: 0922-339-410
    Email: cwwu@moeaea.gov.tw

    Business Contact: Director, Shu-Fang Kao
    Energy Administration, Ministry of Economic Affairs
    Phone Number: 02-2775-7773
    Mobile: 0918-400-668
    Email: sfkao@moeaea.gov.tw

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • India’s infrastructure sees rapid progress in last decade as capex surges: FM Sitharaman

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India’s infrastructure has seen rapid progress in the last decade, as capital expenditure surged from Rs 2 lakh crore in 2014-15 to Rs 11.21 lakh crore in 2025-26 – a significant six times increase towards the ‘Viksit Bharat’ goal, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said on Wednesday.

    “India’s Infrastructure has seen rapid progress in the last decade under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Allocation for capital expenditure at its highest-ever at Rs 11.21 lakh crore during FY2026,” FM Sitharaman said in a post on X.

    “A leap of more than 860 per cent in budget allocation for road transport to Rs 3+ lakh crore. Four times surge in Metro Rail Network from just 248 KM in 2014 to 1011 KM in 2025,” she added.

    Finance Minister further stated that from Atal Tunnel to Chenab Bridge, India’s engineering feats are transforming its landscape.

    “These marvels exemplify PM Modi’s vision for a modern, connected and prosperous Bharat,” said FM Sitharaman.

    According to her, India’s push for next-gen infrastructure is powered by sustainability and long term vision.

    “It is laying the foundations of a self-reliant India,” said the Finance Minister.

    The government was poised to surpass its revised capital expenditure (capex) target of Rs 10.18 lakh crore for FY25 by a modest margin.

    The capex target was lowered to Rs 10.18 lakh crore (revised estimates) in the Union Budget 2025-26, from Rs 11.1 lakh crore. For current fiscal (FY26), a capex allocation of Rs 11.21 lakh crore has been set by the government.

    According to Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, the Indian economy will continue to be the world’s fastest-growing economy backed by the increase in the government’s capital expenditure in the Budget for 2025-26 and rising consumption levels, especially in the rural areas.

    The effective capital expenditure works out to 4.3 per cent of the GDP in the Budget for 2025-26 while the fiscal deficit is 4.4 per cent.

    (With inputs from IANS)

  • India’s defence exports surge 34-fold in 11 years of Modi government

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India’s defence sector has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past eleven years, with exports reaching a record high of ₹23,622 crore in 2024–25. This marks a 34-fold increase from ₹686 crore in 2013–14, underlining the Modi government’s commitment to making India self-reliant and globally competitive in defence manufacturing.

    The growth in defence exports has been the result of focused policy reforms, a clear strategic vision, and consistent efforts to strengthen domestic capabilities. Over the years, the government has taken several initiatives to ease export procedures, encourage private sector participation, and expand the range of products available for the international market.

    In the financial year 2024–25 alone, India granted 1,762 export authorisations, reflecting a 16.92 percent rise from the previous year. The number of defence exporters also saw an increase of 17.4 percent, pointing to the growing participation of Indian firms in the global defence supply chain.

    Defence exports from the private sector stood at ₹15,233 crore, while Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) contributed ₹8,389 crore. In comparison, the previous year had seen exports worth ₹15,209 crore from private players and ₹5,874 crore from DPSUs. The 42.85 percent increase in DPSU exports is seen as a strong indication of growing international trust in Indian defence products and the deepening integration of Indian manufacturing into global supply chains.

    India’s export portfolio has diversified significantly over the last decade. Today, the country supplies bulletproof jackets, Dornier (Do-228) aircraft, Chetak helicopters, fast interceptor boats, radars, and lightweight torpedoes to over 100 countries. The United States, France, and Armenia have emerged as key buyers, reflecting India’s growing reputation as a reliable defence partner.

    A landmark development came in January 2022, when BrahMos Aerospace Private Limited signed a $375 million deal with the Philippines for the supply of a Shore-Based Anti-Ship Missile System. The contract was a major step forward in India’s efforts to promote responsible defence exports and showcased the technological maturity of Indian systems.

    As the Modi government marks 11 years in office, the defence sector stands out as a clear success story. With a target of ₹50,000 crore in defence exports by 2029, India is steadily moving towards becoming a global hub for defence production.

  • MIL-Evening Report: Malaria has returned to the Torres Strait. What does this mean for mainland Australia?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Cameron Webb, Clinical Associate Professor and Principal Hospital Scientist, University of Sydney

    Aspect Drones/Shutterstock

    Malaria is one of the deadliest diseases spread by mosquitoes. Each year, hundreds of millions of people worldwide are infected and half a million people die from the disease.

    While mainland Australia was declared malaria-free in 1981, from time to time travellers return to Australia with an infection.

    Infections from local mosquitoes are incredibly rare. However, last week two cases of locally acquired malaria were reported in the Torres Strait.

    So what does this mean for local communities? And is this a risk for mainland Australia?

    What is malaria?

    Unlike other mosquito-borne disease, malaria is caused by protozoan parasites, not viruses. These parasites belong to the Plasmodium genus. While five of these parasites are considered a human health concern, Plasmodium falciparum poses the most serious threat.

    Symptoms can be mild and include fever, chills and headache. But sometimes people develop severe symptoms, such as fatigue, confusion, seizures and difficulty breathing.

    Without appropriate medical care, the disease can be fatal. Those most at risk of life-threatening illness include infants, children under five years, pregnant women and patients with HIV and AIDS.

    How does it spread?

    Malaria parasites are spread by the bite of a mosquito carrying the malaria parasite.

    Not all mosquitoes can carry the parasite. The group of mosquitoes responsible for most malaria transmission is called Anopheles. Aedes and Culex mosquitoes, which are typically associated with the spread of viruses, don’t transmit malaria to people.

    The Anopheles group of mosquitoes play an important role in transmitting malaria parasites.
    Cameron Webb (NSW Health Pathology), CC BY-NC-ND

    While there are medications available to prevent malaria, and these are routinely recommended to travellers, this is not a sustainable approach for communities within regions at risk. The cost of medications, as well as the risk parasites may develop resistance to medications over time, are barriers for routine use in high risk countries.

    Alternative strategies include using insecticide-treated bed nets and controlling mosquitoes by spraying insecticide on and around homes. Early diagnosis and treatment of those suspected to have an infection is also crucial.

    ‘Imported’ versus ‘locally acquired’ infections

    There is an important distinction between “imported” and “locally acquired” cases of malaria.

    “Imported” cases mean the person has been infected overseas and returned to Australia, where they’ve been diagnosed and treated. These cases appear in official statistics but are not the result of local mosquito bites.

    “Locally acquired” cases are where a person is infected without any overseas travel. These cases often result from the parasites first introduced into Australia by infected travellers. The travellers are then bitten by local mosquitoes that go on to bite and spread the pathogens to people who haven’t travelled.

    The last locally acquired malaria outbreak in mainland Australia occurred in 2002, when ten people were infected in Far North Queensland.

    When this happens, it indicates local mosquitoes are carrying the malaria parasites and there is a significant risk further infections have occurred (but are not yet diagnosed) or may be diagnosed in the near future. Mosquito control or other initiatives are required to prevent larger outbreaks.

    In the case of the Torres Strait, there is also the risk infected mosquitoes are transported, either by wind or boats, from Papua New Guinea.

    So, what’s happening in the Torres Strait?

    Queensland Health is currently investigating two recent cases of locally acquired malaria on Saibai Island.

    But cases of locally acquired malaria aren’t unusual in the Torres Strait. They’re often suspected to be linked to movement of people into the islands from PNG, a country that reports more than a million suspected cases of malaria each year.

    Previous locally acquired malaria cases in the Torres Strait were reported in 2023. Before that, a single case was reported in 2013 and eight cases in 2011.

    The tropical climate of the Torres Strait and presence of Anopheles mosquitoes means conditions are right for local spread once the parasites are introduced, either through infected mosquitoes or people.




    Read more:
    Torres Strait Islanders face more than their fair share of health impacts from climate change


    Could malaria spread to mainland Australia?

    Since the 1980s, there have only been a small number of cases reported on mainland Australia. The majority are in travellers returning to Australia who were infected overseas.

    Historically, malaria cases were reported in many parts of the country, especially in the 1940s, including suburbs around Sydney when soldiers infected overseas returned to Australia.

    The mosquitoes capable of spreading the parasites then are still present today. While the most important malaria mosquito in Australia, Anopheles faurati, is limited to northern regions of coastal Australia, Anopheles annulipes is widespread across much of the country.

    But just because the mosquitoes are there, it doesn’t mean there will be an outbreak of malaria.

    The parasite needs to be introduced and it needs to be warm enough for it to complete its life cycle in local mosquitoes. The cooler it is, the less likely that is to happen, even if suitable mosquitoes are present.

    The parasites also face additional challenges. Infected people need to be bitten by local Anopheles mosquitoes, not just any mosquitoes. And with modern health-care systems in Australia, untreated sick people are less likely to be exposed to mosquito bites.

    Malaria is one of the mosquito-borne pathogens considered at risk of increasing as a result of climate change. But there are many other factors at play that will determine future outbreak risk in mainland Australia, especially outside the tropical north of the country, such as a changing climate and seasonal changes in numbers and types of mosquitoes.

    How to stay safe

    The most important way local communities and visitors to the Torres Strait can stay safe is to avoid mosquito bites.

    Cover up when possible with long-sleeved shirts, long pants and covered shoes and apply an insect repellent.

    Insect screens, whether on buildings or in the form of bed nets will also provide protection overnight.




    Read more:
    Mozzies biting? Here’s how to choose a repellent (and how to use it for the best protection)


    Cameron Webb and the Department of Medical Entomology, NSW Health Pathology and University of Sydney, have been engaged by a wide range of insect repellent and insecticide manufacturers to provide testing of products and provide expert advice on medically important arthropods, including mosquitoes. Cameron has also received funding from local, state and federal agencies to undertake research into various aspects of mosquito and mosquito-borne disease management.

    ref. Malaria has returned to the Torres Strait. What does this mean for mainland Australia? – https://theconversation.com/malaria-has-returned-to-the-torres-strait-what-does-this-mean-for-mainland-australia-258289

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-OSI Russia: SPbPU students received support from the Rosmolodezh grant competition

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    The results of the first season of the Rosmolodezh.Grants grant competition have been summed up. Students of Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University became winners with five projects, receiving funding for a total of 2.5 million rubles.

    The All-Russian competition of youth projects “Rosmolodezh.Grants” is held by the Federal Agency for Youth Affairs and is aimed at supporting initiatives implemented by citizens of the Russian Federation aged 14 to 35. The winners of the first season of the competition in 2025 were five students of SPbPU. The projects cover a wide range of areas: from environmental education and engineering training to scientific volunteering, educational forums and socio-cultural initiatives.

    Alexandra Kuznetsova — project “Educational module on designing and constructing a geodome from recycled polymers”

    The project will include an educational course on separate waste collection and recycling in the Polytech Tower. The plastic recycling equipment, which the students assembled themselves, can be used to make various products from recycled polymers. Usually, these are souvenirs, but the project team has set an ambitious goal: to assemble a geodome from recycled plastic, which will be an addition to the Tower’s summer space next year. The project introduces plastic recycling processes in a visual and interactive form using compact equipment similar to industrial equipment. This creates a logical chain from packaging submitted for recycling to the finished product.

    Anna Melnichuk and the PCPS student club – the project “Autumn school “SPARK””

    The initiative of the PCPS (Polytechnic Club of Physical Students) club is an educational project aimed at 1st-2nd year students of physical and technical fields. The SPARK school is dedicated to the topic of building a career path in science. The event will include lectures and master classes from invited speakers – scientists from the Polytechnic University and other scientific institutions. They will talk about their own path in science, share practical advice, and also conduct classes on developing soft skills: writing a resume, a motivation letter, a scientific article, finding a scientific supervisor and other important aspects of a scientific career.

    Tatyana Tkachuk — the project “Forum of Case Clubs”

    The Case Club Forum is an event aimed at creating a space and favorable conditions for the exchange of ideas and experience between members of student associations promoting the case method in their activities. The project includes a seminar called “Case Club Forum”. The goal of the event is to create a space for the exchange of competencies and experience, allowing for improved communication between associations and the development of joint activities for the further promotion of the case method. Representatives of existing case clubs in St. Petersburg and Moscow will be invited to participate in the forum!

    Alexander Merkuriev – the project “Vaccination is impossible to remain silent”

    The project “Vaccination is not possible to remain silent” is aimed at educating young people about the safety and effectiveness of vaccination. During open lessons in schools in St. Petersburg and the Leningrad Region, young specialists in biology and medicine will tell students from different classes about our immunity, the composition and production of modern vaccines, and myths about the dangers of vaccination. All these and many other questions will be discussed in class after a popular science lecture on the topic.

    Daria Khadjaridi – “Black Bear School” project

    “Black Bear School” is a five-day intensive course in sports management. Over the course of five days, experts will talk about lectures on SMM, photography, video, event organization, and working with partners. The intensive course will be useful for anyone who wants to learn something new in the field of sports media – whether you are a beginner or a pro, because the intensive course is divided into categories by level of training.

    The grant competition has been held since 2005 and is aimed at supporting projects of young people and student associations. The competition provides financial support in the amount of 5 thousand to 1 million rubles for the implementation of socially significant projects. In the first season of 2025, more than 15 thousand applications from all regions of Russia were received for participation. The selection of projects was carried out according to the criteria of relevance, feasibility, social significance and the presence of a sustainable result.

    Support for SPbPU student projects confirms the high level of project activities at the university, as well as the active civic position of students. The university will continue to provide methodological assistance to students and youth associations in participating in such competitions, developing a culture of project thinking and social leadership.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ranking Member McCollum: House Democrats Expose How Republicans’ Defense Funding Bill Undermines Military Readiness

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn)

    WASHINGTON — During today’s House Appropriations subcommittee markup of the 2026 Defense funding bill, House Democrats highlighted how the bill undermines democracy at home and abroad and includes harmful policy riders that divide our nation.

    For fiscal year 2026, the bill provides $831.5 billion, which is equal to current funding levels and $1.3 billion above the Administration’s fiscal year 2026 request.

    Republicans have included language directing the Department of Defense to determine $7.75 billion in cuts to amounts listed in the bill. This jeopardizes every program other than intelligence activities. If made uniformly, it would reduce everything by approximately 1 percent, which would mean cuts of almost $2 billion for troop pay, over $2 billion for troop readiness, $409 million for health programs, $5 million each for Israel and Jordan, and over $2 billion for the procurement and modernization of weapons systems. At a time when the Trump Administration is already illegally stealing from American communities by refusing to spend funds, it is unfathomable that the Appropriations Committee would allow the administration to unilaterally make nearly $8 billion in cuts to defense investments.

    The legislation:

    • Weakens Ukraine and empowers Russia by eliminating support for the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative.
    • Undermines democracy at home and abroad by allowing disinformation and extremist views to flourish.
    • Limits women’s access to abortion by preventing service personnel from traveling to seek reproductive health care
    • Harms our military readiness with divisive provisions that undermine morale and fail to support our service personnel, by:
      • Continuing DOGE and the Administration’s cuts to vital civilian positions;
      • Attacking the LGBTQ+ community with hateful policies; and
      • Banning funding for diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts.

    From Defense Appropriations Subcommittee Ranking Member Betty McCollum’s (D-MN-04) opening remarks as prepared for delivery:

    “The Defense Appropriations Act is an incredibly complex piece of legislation that needs to be written the right way: With the president’s budget, and with thoughtful analysis by the Department of Defense. There are consequences to not following this process. We may end up buying too many of one platform, wasting precious taxpayer dollars. We may end up buying too little of another – leaving a gap in our defense capabilities. When we do not see the budget request, we fail to maximize the buying power for the taxpayer. It is unfortunate that President Trump put us in this situation. Our service members and America’s tax paying public deserve better.”

    From Appropriations Committee Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro’s (D-CT-03) opening remarks as prepared for delivery:

    “Rather than working with House Democrats to strengthen our national security and prioritize the issues that matter most to our men and women in uniform, House Republicans are abandoning our allies, undermining democracy at home and abroad, and failing to support our servicemembers. Despite broad support in Congress for helping Ukraine defend itself against Russia’s brutal invasion, they empower Vladimir Putin by failing to include $300 million for the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative. The majority’s bill holds the door open for disinformation created by America’s enemies rather than allowing the Department of Defense to counter the threat, allowing extremism and propaganda to proliferate across the Internet and media landscape. The bill continues House Republicans’ attacks on the right of women to seek an abortion, and the rights of minorities to be protected from discrimination, while destroying the Department’s efforts to build a more inclusive, effective, and modern military. And the bill weakens the Department by continuing the Administration’s reckless and indiscriminate cuts to vital civilian personnel, and yielding to DOGE and Elon Musk.”

    A summary of House Republicans’ 2026 Defense bill is here. A fact sheet of the bill is here. The full text of the bill is here.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Al Green Featured in Newsweek Article for Filing Articles of Impeachment Against President Donald John Trump

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Al Green (TX-9)

    (Houston, TX) — On Sunday, May 18, 2025, Congressman Al Green was featured in an article written by Newsweek reporter Peter Aitken titled “Exclusive: Al Green on Trump Impeachment Push—’Don’t Wait’ for ‘Tanks’.” The article highlights Congressman Green’s recently filed articles of impeachment against President Donald John Trump, pointing to the Presidents continued attacks on judicial independence and disregard for the separation of powers. In this piece, Congressman Green addresses the need to confront rising authoritarianism, warning immediate action is necessary to safeguard American democracy. 

    The article is available on Newsweek’s website by clicking the link here.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Applications for new niches at Wo Hop Shek, Cape Collinson-San Ha and Shek Mun Columbariums to close on June 18

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Applications for new niches at Wo Hop Shek, Cape Collinson-San Ha and Shek Mun Columbariums to close on June 18 
    Hong Kong Cemeteries and Crematoria Office
    Address: 1J Wong Nai Chung Road, Happy Valley, Hong Kong
    Tel: 2570 4318
    Fax: 2591 1879Address: Upper Ground Floor, 6 Cheong Hang Road, Hung Hom, Kowloon
    Tel: 2365 5321
    Fax: 2176 4963Address: Units 3501-3511 and 3520-3525, 35/F, Tower 1, Metroplaza, 223 Hing Fong Road, Kwai Fong, NT
    Tel: 2330 5635
    Fax: 2333 1716
    Issued at HKT 15:15

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Jun 11, 2025 0600 UTC Day 2 Convective Outlook

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

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    Jun 11, 2025 0600 UTC Day 2 Convective Outlook

    Updated: Wed Jun 11 05:57:09 UTC 2025 (Print Version |   |  )

    Probabilistic to Categorical Outlook Conversion Table

     Forecast Discussion

    SPC AC 110557

    Day 2 Convective Outlook
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    1257 AM CDT Wed Jun 11 2025

    Valid 121200Z – 131200Z

    …THERE IS A MARGINAL RISK OF SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS OVER PARTS OF
    THE NORTHERN PLAINS AND TEXAS…

    …SUMMARY…
    Widely scattered strong to severe storms are expected Thursday
    across parts of the central to northern Plains and Upper Midwest.
    Isolated strong to severe storms may also occur over parts of Texas.

    …Synopsis…
    The stronger flow aloft will remain over northern portions of the
    CONUS on Thursday, with a low-amplitude wave moving across the
    northern Plains. South of there, a weak upper low will move from TX
    toward the lower to middle MS Valley late.

    At the surface, a boundary will stretch roughly from SD eastward to
    the Mid Atlantic, with a large area of mid to upper 60s F across
    much of the plains and Midwest. A weak is forecast over southwest
    NE, with an inverted trough extending northeastward toward southern
    MN.

    …Northern Plains…
    Early day rain/thunderstorms will shift north across eastern SD and
    southern MN during the day in a zone of warm advection, with air
    mass recovery to the southwest across NE and western KS/eastern CO.
    Strong heating and southeast surface winds will yield storms moving
    off the Front Range, with locally strong gusts or marginal hail.
    Robust convection will form within the surface trough over NE,
    extending into southeast SD/western IA/southwest MN as well, with
    more of a variety of storms expected. Both damaging winds and hail
    are expected. Shear will be marginal but an MCS cannot be ruled out
    overnight.

    …Much of southern/central/eastern TX…
    Substantial moisture and instability will again develop with 70s F
    dewpoints and cool temperatures aloft. Clusters of storms are likely
    to be ongoing roughly along or east of I-35 much of the day, and
    areas of strong wind gusts may occur. West of there, stronger
    heating will occur over southwest TX. Shear will be weak but
    multicellular convection capable of marginal hail or localized
    downbursts may occur.

    ..Jewell.. 06/11/2025

    CLICK TO GET WUUS02 PTSDY2 PRODUCT

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

    Top/Latest Day 1 Outlook/Today’s Outlooks/Forecast Products/Home

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Jun 11, 2025 0600 UTC Day 1 Convective Outlook

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    SPC AC 110559

    Day 1 Convective Outlook
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    1259 AM CDT Wed Jun 11 2025

    Valid 111200Z – 121200Z

    …THERE IS A SLIGHT RISK OF SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS ACROSS PARTS OF
    SOUHT-CENTRAL AND SOUTHEAST TEXAS…

    …SUMMARY…
    Thunderstorms associated with severe gusts and hail will be possible
    today across parts of the southern Plains and Sabine River Valley.
    Marginally severe storms will also be possible in parts of the Upper
    Midwest and northwestern states.

    …Southern Plains/Sabine River Valley…
    At mid-levels, a shortwave trough will move eastward across the
    southern Plains today. Ahead of the trough, flow will be
    southwesterly across much of the eastern half of Texas. At the
    surface, a moist airmass will remain in place from the eastern Texas
    Hill Country eastward into the Sabine River Valley, where surface
    dewpoints will be in the lower to mid 70s F. Early in the period, a
    line of storms is expected to move eastward across this moist
    airmass. The line will likely lay out an outflow boundary across
    parts of the Texas Coastal Plain. To the south of this boundary,
    moderate instability is expected to develop by afternoon.
    Thunderstorm development will be most likely along and near the
    boundary during the mid to late afternoon, with multiple clusters of
    storms moving eastward across central and southeast Texas. RAP
    forecast soundings across the Texas Coastal Plain at 21Z have a
    MLCAPE peaking near 3000 J/kg, with 0-6 km shear around 30 knots.
    The environment should support a severe threat, associated with
    supercells and/or short bowing line segments. Wind damage will be
    the primary threat, although hail will also be possible.

    …Northern Rockies/Northern High Plains…
    A shortwave trough will move across the northern Rockies today. At
    the surface, a moist airmass will be in place from the northern
    Rockies eastward into the northern High Plains. Destabilization will
    occur during the day across this airmass as surface temperatures
    warm. Models forecasts suggest that MLCAPE could reach 1000 J/kg in
    some areas. By early to mid afternoon, convection is expected to
    develop in the higher terrain, with storms moving eastward into the
    lower elevations. Forecast soundings across the region suggest that
    low to mid-level lapse rates will become very steep, and that
    moderate deep-layer shear will be present. For this reason, a threat
    for hail and isolated severe gusts will be possible, especially near
    and after peak heating.

    …Upper Midwest…
    West-northwesterly mid-level flow will be in place today from the
    northern Plains eastward into the Upper Midwest. At the surface, a
    cold front will move slowly southward across the mid Missouri and
    upper Mississippi Valleys. This front will be a focus for convective
    development today. To the south of the front, surface dewpoints in
    the 60s F will likely contribute to moderate instability by
    afternoon. Although deep-layer shear will be relatively weak,
    low-level lapse rates are forecast to become very steep, locally
    exceeding 9 C/km in some areas. Thunderstorms that develop on the
    warm side of the boundary where lapse rates are maximized could
    develop a threat for isolated damaging wind gusts and hail.

    ..Broyles/Squitieri.. 06/11/2025

    CLICK TO GET WUUS01 PTSDY1 PRODUCT

    NOTE: THE NEXT DAY 1 OUTLOOK IS SCHEDULED BY 1300Z

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC – No MDs are in effect as of Wed Jun 11 07:02:02 UTC 2025

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Current Mesoscale DiscussionsUpdated:  Wed Jun 11 07:11:02 UTC 2025 No Mesoscale Discussions are currently in effect.

    Notice:  The responsibility for Heavy Rain Mesoscale Discussions has been transferred to the Weather Prediction Center (WPC) on April 9, 2013. Click here for the Service Change Notice.
    Archived Convective ProductsTo view convective products for a previous day, type in the date you wish to retrieve (e.g. 20040529 for May 29, 2004). Data available since January 1, 2004.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC – No watches are valid as of Wed Jun 11 07:02:02 UTC 2025

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Current Convective Watches (View What is a Watch? clip)Updated:  Wed Jun 11 07:11:05 UTC 2025 No watches are currently valid

    Archived Convective ProductsTo view convective products for a previous day, type in the date you wish to retrieve (e.g. 20040529 for May 29, 2004). Data available since January 1, 2004.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Standing Committee on Appropriations Calls for Urgency in Dealing with Municipal Debt to Eskom


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    The Standing Committee on Appropriations has urged Eskom to collaborate closely with the National Treasury and the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs to ensure that there is full municipal cooperation in the implementation of the Distribution Agency Agreement (DAA) programme.

    The power utility briefed the committee today regarding the Eskom Debt Relief Bill. The committee expressed deep concern over Eskom’s increasing debt levels and that the power utility continues its trajectory towards unsustainable indebtedness.

    The Chairperson of the committee, Mr Mmusi Maimane said: “When we examine the various pieces of legislation under consideration by this committee, it is undeniable that Eskom remains a pivotal component. The state of Eskom’s liquidity, along with serious concerns raised by municipalities around debt servicing are critical factors, especially in light of the appropriations made to Eskom.”

    Mr Maimane said he feared that Eskom will be heavily indebted despite being in receipt of the Eskom Debt Relief Bill. The committee further said the lack of urgency in addressing underperforming and financially distressed municipalities, many of which are unable to service their debts to Eskom, is a major contributor to Eskom’s debt burden.

    The committee also highlighted that Eskom was not doing enough to curb the ‘ghost tokens’ in the pre-paid electricity segment and the failure to address it has contributed to significant revenue losses.

    Furthermore, the committee recommended that the power utility needs to ensure that it deals decisively with acts of sabotage carried out by its own employees. The committee cautioned that that the power utility needs to begin exploring ways to harness its own energy sources and not rely on independent power producers as this process can easily be influenced by political forces.

    The committee called on Eskom to urgently implement decisive reforms to address inefficiencies, improve governance, enhance revenue collection, and safeguard its infrastructure.

    The committee will tomorrow, 11 June receive a briefing from the City of Johannesburg and the City of Mangaung Metropolitan Municipalities on the 2025 Division of Revenue Bill.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Philippines and Angola Explore Tourism Cooperation in First Bilateral Business Forum


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    The Philippine Embassy in Lisbon, together with the PH-Angola  Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCIAF), and in coordination with the Philippine  Department of Tourism (DOT), Asian Institute of Management (AIM), Philippine  Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), Angola’s Ministry of Tourism, and AIPEX,  successfully held the First Philippines-Angola Business Forum on Sustainable Tourism on 30 May 2025 via virtual platform. 

    The Forum was held at the Philippine Honorary Consulate General’s Office in  Dipanda, Angola, under the leadership of Honorary Consul General Etienne Brechet,  with Honorary Consul Megan Brechet-Amamou as Forum host. 

    With the theme “Sustainable Tourism: A Pathway to Economic and Cultural  Development,” the Forum brought together government officials, private sector  representatives, and tourism stakeholders from both countries to explore opportunities  for bilateral cooperation, tourism development, and sustainable investment, with  particular focus on promoting Namibe Province as an emerging tourism destination. 

    The Philippine side shared its experiences in tourism policy development, post pandemic recovery efforts, sustainable tourism strategies, and private sector engagement. Presentations covered the Philippines’ legal and institutional  frameworks, ecotourism strategies, tourism infrastructure investments, and  approaches to ensuring that tourism development preserves cultural heritage and  ecological integrity. 

    Angola’s delegation, led by Angola’s Ministry of Tourism and CCIAF, presented the tourism potential of Namibe province, identifying opportunities in eco- and adventure  tourism, resort development, and cultural tourism, and expressed keen interest in  building business partnerships with Philippine stakeholders. 

    The Angolan side also conveyed their utmost appreciation for the comprehensive  presentations provided by the Philippine speakers and expressed a strong desire to  learn from the Philippines’ expertise in sustainable tourism development. 

    The Forum concluded with mutual interest in pursuing reciprocal business missions, tourism training exchanges, and joint promotional efforts to advance sustainable  tourism cooperation between the Philippines and Angola.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Department of Foreign Affairs, Republic of the Philippines.

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Mozambique: Spiralling hunger crisis and violence amid collapsing aid budgets


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    In a visit to the neglected crisis raging in the north of Mozambique, Egeland described it as at a “critical tipping point,” sounding the alarm over skyrocketing violence, the devastation from multiple cyclones, and the near collapse of aid lifelines due to global funding cuts.  

    “In a region suffering from daily atrocities and monthly disasters, I have seen the human toll caused by the global retreat of solidarity and funding. Climate shocks, increasing violence, and spiralling hunger are having a terrible impact on the population. They now stand at the edge of an abyss, with immense suffering ahead unless the world ends its neglect,” said Egeland.  

    Armed attacks in Cabo Delgado surged by 155 per cent in March alone, with 52 atrocities resulting in 153 abductions and 39 killings. The violence has displaced over 1.4 million people to date, while more than 600,000 others who have returned home now face renewed insecurity and little to no assistance.  

    Simultaneously, three consecutive cyclones—Chido, Dikeledi, and Jude—have battered Mozambique in just three months, affecting more than 1.4 million people, and destroying homes, schools, health centres and farmland across several provinces.  

    The compounded crises have pushed nearly five million Mozambicans into critical levels of hunger, with over 900,000 facing emergency conditions—just one step below famine.   

    “Hunger took hold in Mozambique the moment conflict did,” Egeland said. “Where bullets fly, crops wither, supply chains collapse, and families are left hungry.”  

    In conflict-hit Cabo Delgado, farming and markets have collapsed; in Nampula and Zambezia, cyclone-damaged crops have left families struggling to survive.  

    Fuel shortages, infrastructure damage, and insecurity are now paralysing aid operations across the country. Humanitarian agencies, including NRC, have been forced to reduce life-saving activities due to lack of funds and growing access challenges, including administrative and bureaucratic restrictions, attacks and ambushes on aid convoys.  

    “In 2024, we reached over 125,000 people, but the scale of this crisis far outstrips our current capacity,” Egeland said. “We have been forced to drastically reduce our first line response—such as survival kits and shelters to people left homeless by the latest cyclone—because of the US funding cuts.”   

    The World Food Programme has already halved its assistance, reaching only 520,000 people of the one million targeted in 2024. This year, the number of people receiving food aid is expected to plummet even further to just 250,000, despite the growing number of people in need.  

    “Mothers I met told me they don’t know who they would turn to if we had to stop helping them,” Egeland said. “They’ve already had to cut down on their food, and their children are sleeping hungry. I want to be clear that, whatever happens, we are here to stay and deliver, and we must find a way to keep delivering in a world of chaos.   

    “I call on governments and the private sector to urgently mobilise funding, guarantee safe access for aid workers, and commit to long-term support for the rights and dignity of displaced Mozambicans. Several governments and multinational corporations are in Mozambique for its natural resources, with little returns to the impoverished population.”  

    NRC stresses the need for immediate and sustained international action to avert a full-scale famine, restore food security, and support the country’s fragile recovery. This includes urgent investment in agricultural recovery and fisheries support for coastal areas, nutrition for children, and protection for people forced to flee violence.  

    “Turning our backs now is not an option—for the sake of millions facing starvation, and for our shared humanity,” Egeland said.  

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC).

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI Africa: President Museveni and the First Lady Renew their National Identity Cards


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    President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and the First Lady also Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Museveni have this afternoon participated in the ongoing mass registration and renewal exercise of the National Identity cards at State Lodge, Nakasero.

    The project is being implemented by the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) and the renewal exercise was efficiently conducted by a team from the authority, led by the Executive Director, Ms. Rosemary Kisembo.

    The registration of citizens is regarded as a crucial component of national security, ensuring that every individual is accounted for within the nation’s identity framework. Enhanced biometric technology associated with these ID cards provides a reliable and unalterable means of establishing identity.

    This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to strengthening national identity systems and fostering socio-economic transformation.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Uganda.

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Scientific and cultural exchanges between Chinese and Russian youth took place in Heilongjiang Province

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, June 11 (Xinhua) — Wudalianchi City Publicity Department of the CPC Wudalianchi Municipal Committee in northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province said that events in the field of popular science and cultural exchanges between Chinese and Russian youth were held in Wudalianchi from June 4 to 5, 2025.

    On the evening of June 4, the opening ceremony was held at the Wudalianchi Cultural and Sports Center, where young people from the two countries in national costumes presented dance and song numbers. The melodic sounds, combined with the rhythmic performances of the kuaiban (recitative accompanied by an instrument made of bamboo planks), conveyed youthful enthusiasm and passion to the applause of the audience.

    During the events, the participants visited the city’s science and technology museum, where they immersed themselves in the world of space and conducted experiments with interactive exhibits. Then, at Xinrui Primary School, the Russian guests viewed an exhibition of creative projects, watched a show of robots and aircraft models, and tried their hand at Chinese calligraphy and playing traditional Chinese instruments. Then the participants learned about the principles of volcano formation, as well as the unique geological structure and evolution of the region.

    During the two-day exchange, the youth of the two countries not only enriched their scientific knowledge, but also laid a solid foundation for friendship. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dongsheng District, Ordos City

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    Dongsheng District is located in the central and eastern part of Ordos City. Its area is 2,160 square kilometers. The permanent population reaches almost 600 thousand people. The urbanization rate is 96.7%.

    Dongsheng District is located at an altitude of over 1,600 meters above sea level, and the average summer temperature is 21 degrees. It is a well-functioning, warm and comfortable city to live in. Its forest cover and grassland vegetation rate have reached 29.9% and 51.8%, respectively.

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Mongolia hosts event dedicated to International Day of Dialogue Among Civilizations

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    ULAN BATOR, June 11 (Xinhua) — An event to mark the International Day of Dialogue Among Civilizations was held at the China Cultural Center in Ulan Bator on Tuesday.

    It also included a competition for the best Chinese songs among Mongolian youth.

    The event aims to build a bridge of good-neighborliness and friendship between China and Mongolia through music, and promote cultural and educational exchanges and cooperation between the two countries. It is part of a series of events to mark the International Day of Dialogue Among Civilizations.

    The competition featured 15 solo performers from Mongolia. The participants demonstrated their level of proficiency and talent in learning Chinese.

    The winners were Erdenetsogiin Mendbayar and Wu Ningjing, who performed a medley of classic Chinese TV series and films, “My Fair Princess” and “Breaking Dawn.”

    “When the participants sang Chinese songs in Chinese, every word was a fusion of cultures and every melody was a seed of friendship,” said Li Zhi, a counselor at the Chinese Embassy in Mongolia and director of the Chinese Cultural Center in Ulaanbaatar.

    In his speech, he emphasized that China and Mongolia use music as a medium and singing as a bridge, which is a vivid practice of the global civilization initiative: using art to convey shared values, using melody to promote exchanges between people, and using innovation to promote the heritage of civilization. “This competition is not only a stage for participants to showcase their talents, but also a window for mutual learning between civilizations,” he added.

    In 2024, the 78th session of the UN General Assembly unanimously adopted a resolution drafted by China to establish June 10 as the annual International Day of Dialogue among Civilizations.

    The event was initiated by the Mongolian Association “Community with a Shared Future for Humanity – Belt and Road” and organized by the Chinese Cultural Center in Ulaanbaatar. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The President of Uzbekistan noted the importance of expanding mutually beneficial cooperation with Russia in the energy sector

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    Tashkent, June 11 /Xinhua/ — The President of Uzbekistan noted the importance of expanding mutually beneficial cooperation with Russia in the energy sector, the press service of the head of Uzbekistan reported on Tuesday.

    “On June 10, President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev received Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation Alexander Novak, who arrived in our country to participate in the fourth Tashkent Investment Forum,” the statement said.

    “At the beginning of the meeting, Alexander Novak conveyed greetings and best wishes from Russian President Vladimir Putin to the head of our state, and also congratulated him on the successful holding of the forum,” the statement said.

    It is noted that issues of practical implementation of the agreements reached during the state visit to Uzbekistan in May last year and other contacts at the highest level were discussed.

    As reported, special attention was paid to expanding mutually beneficial partnership in the energy sector, accelerating joint oil and gas projects, and further developing cooperation in the field of peaceful nuclear energy. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Jordanian, Lebanese leaders call for Gaza ceasefire, pledge to strengthen cooperation

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    AMMAN, June 11 (Xinhua) — Jordan’s King Abdullah II met with visiting Lebanese President Joseph Aoun on Tuesday to discuss ways to deepen bilateral ties and current regional developments, the Hashemite Royal Court said in a statement.

    The talks focused on expanding trade and increasing joint investment, especially in energy, electricity and infrastructure. Both leaders stressed the importance of expanding cooperation to advance common interests, support Arab aspirations and enhance stability in the region.

    Speaking about the situation in the region, the leaders of the two countries stressed the need to end the war in Gaza and ensure that sufficient humanitarian aid reaches the enclave.

    The King of Jordan and the President of Lebanon condemned any plans for the forced displacement of Palestinians and called for increased efforts by Arab countries and the international community to achieve a just and comprehensive peace based on the principle of “two states for two peoples.”

    In turn, King Abdullah II confirmed Jordan’s support for Lebanon’s efforts to maintain security, stability, sovereignty and territorial integrity.

    He also warned against an escalation of violence against Palestinians in the West Bank and called for respect for the sanctity of Islamic and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem.

    During the meeting, the leaders of both countries also stressed the importance of maintaining security and stability in Syria to ensure the safe and voluntary return of refugees. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Argentina’s Supreme Court Upholds 6-Year Sentence of Ex-President

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BUENOS AIRES, June 11 (Xinhua) — Argentina’s Supreme Court on Tuesday upheld a six-year prison sentence against former President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner for irregularities in public works contracts during her time in power.

    The country’s highest court rejected an appeal filed by Fernandez de Kirchner’s lawyers against lower court decisions upholding both the prison term and the lifetime ban on holding public office.

    The ruling was based on the so-called “Vialidad case,” which investigated the awarding of 51 road construction contracts in the southern province of Santa Cruz to companies owned by businessman Lázaro Báez during the government of Néstor Kirchner (2003-2007) and his widow, C. Fernández de Kirchner (2007-2015).

    Fernandez de Kirchner has repeatedly denied her guilt and called the trial a politically motivated prosecution. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Johnson’s Statement on the White House Deploying National Guard to Los Angeles

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Hank Johnson (GA-04)

    Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) released the following statement on the White House deploying 2,000 National Guard troops to Los Angeles during protests against Trump’s immigration policies:

    “President Trump’s unilateral deployment of the National Guard onto the streets of Los Angeles at a time when state and local law enforcement were defusing the fallout from ICE raids that terrorized immigrant neighborhoods and workplaces, was a move calculated to escalate what had been largely peaceful protests into violence that would create a pretext for suspending habeas corpus and imposing Martial Law.

    “Similar to the Chinese Communist Party government crackdown on the pro-democracy movement in Hong Kong, Martial Law would create the opportunity for Trump to crackdown on dissent throughout America, stifling freedom and liberty as the 250-year anniversary of the Declaration of Independence from monarchal tyranny approaches.”

    “I stand with my brothers and sisters who are peacefully protesting not only the cruelty of Donald Trump’s immigration crackdowns but the dictatorship he so desperately is trying to create, and I urge all those engaging in protest and demonstrations to remain non-violent. The time is now for all good people to find and get into trouble. Good trouble. Necessary trouble.”

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    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: CONGRESSMAN JOHNSON JOINS BIPARTISAN CHARGE TO SAVE JOB CORPS

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Hank Johnson (GA-04)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) joined Congressmen Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) and Brett Guthrie (KY-02), the co-chairs of the bipartisan Congressional Job Corps Caucus, in a letter signed by 199 members of Congress—Democratic and Republican—to U.S. Department of Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer urging her to continue the Job Corps program.

    On May 29, the U.S. Department of Labor issued a notice that it will begin a phased pause in operations at contractor-operated Job Corps centers across the country. Job Corps is a national program with over 120 centers across the country. Job Corps offers at-risk youth varied academic opportunities and career pathways in business and industry.

    In their letter, they highlighted, “Nearly 20,000 young people utilize Job Corps to learn skills for in-demand vocational and technical job training. Job Corps is one of the few national programs that specifically targets the 16-24-year-old population that is neither working, nor in school, and provides them with a direct pathway into employment openings in industries such as manufacturing and shipbuilding. The program also connects these young Americans with apprenticeships, higher education opportunities, or the military.”

    The members of Congress also noted, “As companies continue to onshore and invest in the men and women of our country, a steady stream of skilled laborers will be required to meet the growing workforce demand. The Job Corps program is uniquely positioned to fill that role and provide these hardworking young Americans with the vocational and technical job training that will set them and our country up for success.”

    The Jun. 5 letter to Secretary Chavez-DeRemer can be viewed here

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    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sánchez condemns ICE’s presence in her district

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Linda Sanchez (38th District of CA)

    WASHINGTON – Congresswoman Linda T. Sánchez (D-Calif.) issued the following statement in response to confirmed reports that Immigration and Customs Enforcement was in Whittier over the weekend:

    “ICE’s presence in Whittier and throughout Los Angeles does not make our neighborhoods safer. Instead, they are tearing families apart, traumatizing children and undermining trust with our local officials and law enforcement.

    “The Trump administration’s raids serve no purpose other than to stoke fear and enforce a cruel and broken immigration system. No one should live under the constant threat of being ripped away from their family.

    “I’m working with our local officials to determine if any of our residents were unlawfully detained. These inhumane raids must stop now.”

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    MIL OSI USA News