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Category: DJF

  • MIL-OSI Security: NATO releases new Science & Technology Strategy

    Source: NATO

    On Thursday (5 June 2025), NATO Defence Ministers endorsed a new strategy that guides Alliance-wide scientific and technological research in support of defence and security.

    The NATO Science and Technology (S&T) Strategy stresses the importance of science and technology “to enable the Alliance to outperform strategic competitors and potential adversaries in inserting scientific knowledge and adopting emerging technologies across all NATO core tasks”. It further emphasises the role that defence and security-related science and technology plays in the development of capabilities and enhancement of military interoperability, as well as in the further reinforcement of societal, political and industrial resilience.

    The Strategy sets three mutually-reinforcing strategic goals for the NATO S&T Enterprise:

    • To “Anticipate and Invest”: notably through enhanced foresight and increasing investment in critical S&T areas, such as AI, quantum and biotechnologies, and support for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education.
    • To “Safeguard and Protect” the NATO S&T Enterprise against hybrid threats such as interference.
    • To “Orchestrate and Energize” S&T, including by  promoting “denser, deeper and more agile coordination” and  exploiting S&T results across all NATO core tasks.

    The new Strategy supersedes the NATO S&T Strategy released in 2018. It supports NATO’s 2022 Strategic Concept and takes accounts of the science & technology macro trends that the Science and Technology Organization (STO) has identified as important for the Alliance for the next 20 years, and outlined in its 2025-2045 report (hyperlink).

    The Strategy is available here.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • Russia launches one of war’s largest air attacks on Kyiv

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Russia launched one of its largest air strikes on Kyiv in over three years of war and struck a maternity ward in the southern city of Odesa in attacks that killed at least two people, officials said on Tuesday.

    The overnight strikes followed Russia’s biggest drone assault of the war on Ukraine on Monday and were part of intensified bombardments what Moscow says is retaliation for attacks by Ukrainian forces on Russia.

    Loud explosions shook Kyiv and blasts and fires lit up the sky in the early hours of Tuesday morning, leaving palls of heavy smoke over the city, Reuters witnesses said.

    At least four people were treated in hospital after seven of the capital’s 10 districts were hit, city officials said.

    “Today was one of the largest attacks on Kyiv,” President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said. “Russian missile and Shahed (drone) strikes drown out the efforts of the United States and others around the world to force Russia into peace.”

    Zelenskiy urged Ukraine’s allies to take steps to force Russia into peace, and Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha called for immediate new sanctions and air defence systems.

    Although Moscow and Kyiv have held two rounds of direct peace talks in recent weeks, the only tangible progress has been an agreement on exchanges of prisoners of war, and Russia has continued to advance along the front line in eastern Ukraine.

    Moscow and Kyiv blame each other for the lack of progress towards ending the war, which has raged since Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, and U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed frustration with both sides.

    Russia temporarily halted flights overnight at four airports serving Moscow, at St Petersburg’s Pulkovo Airport and at airports in nine other cities after the Defence Ministry said Ukraine had launched more drones at Russia, officials said.

    Flights in Moscow and some other cities were later restored but restrictions were still in place in St Petersburg at 0430 GMT. No damage was reported.

    ‘DIFFICULT NIGHT’

    Ukraine’s air force said Russia had fired 315 drones across the country, of which 277 were downed. All seven missiles launched by Russia were also brought down, it said.

    Air raid alerts in Kyiv and most Ukrainian regions lasted five hours until around 5 a.m. (0200 GMT), according to information released by the military.

    “A difficult night for all of us,” Timur Tkachenko, head of Kyiv’s city military administration, said on Telegram.

    Moscow has intensified attacks on Ukraine following Kyiv’s strikes on strategic bombers at air bases inside Russia on June 1. Moscow also blamed Kyiv for bridge explosions on the same day that killed seven and injured scores.

    Over the past week, Russia has launched 1,451 drones and 78 missiles to attack the country, according to Ukrainian air force data.

    In the southern port of Odesa, an overnight drone attack hit an emergency medical building, a maternity ward and residential buildings, regional governor Oleh Kiper said on Telegram.

    Two men were killed in the attack on the city but patients and staff were safely evacuated from the maternity hospital, he said.

    Both sides deny targeting civilians but thousands of civilians have been killed in Europe’s worst conflict since World War Two, the vast majority of them Ukrainian.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-Evening Report: Albanese announces first woman Treasury secretary and a ‘roundtable’ on boosting productivity

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra

    Treasury head Steven Kennedy will become Anthony Albanese’s right-hand bureaucrat, while Treasury will get its first female secretary, with the appointment of Jenny Wilkinson, who currently heads the Finance Department.

    Kennedy, to be the new secretary of the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, replaces Glyn Davis, who announced after the election he was leaving the post after just three years.

    Kennedy, 60, has had a close working relationship with Treasurer Jim Chalmers. He also served Chalmers’ Liberal predecessor, Josh Frydenberg, during the pandemic, when the Treasury was the main bureaucratic architect of the JobKeeper scheme that provided subsidies to business to keep on workers.

    Wilkinson, 58, has been secretary of the Finance Department since August 2022. She was previously a deputy secretary in Treasury, where she worked on the pandemic economic stimulus measures. She is also a former head of the Parliamentary Budget Office.

    As Treasury secretary, Wilkinson will take Stevens’ place on the Reserve Bank.

    Chalmers described Kennedy and Wilkinson as “the best of the best”, saying they were “outstanding public servants”.

    Finance Minister Katy Gallagher said Wilkinson’s appointment not only recognised her talent, skills and expertise, “but it also serves as an important reminder for women and girls across the country that all positions in the Australian Public Service – no matter how senior – are roles that women can hold”.

    The prime minister announced the bureaucratic reshuffle during his Tuesday address to the National Press Club on his second term agenda.

    With Chalmers already having named productivity as his primary priority for this term, Albanese said he had asked the treasurer to convene “a roundtable to support and shape our government’s growth and productivity agenda”.

    The summit, at Parliament House in August, will bring together a group of leaders from business, unions and civil society. More details will come in a speech on productivity by Chalmers next week.

    “This will be a more streamlined dialogue than the Jobs and Skills Summit, dealing with a more targeted set of issues,” Albanese said.

    “We want to build the broadest possible base of support for further economic reform, to drive growth, boost productivity, strengthen the budget, and secure the resilience of our economy, in a time of global uncertainty.

    “What we want is a focused dialogue and constructive debate that leads to concrete and tangible actions.”

    Albanese said the government’s starting point was clear, “Our plan for economic growth and productivity is about Australians earning more and keeping more of what they earn.” The aim was for growth, wages and productivity to rise together.

    The Productivity Commission recently released 15 “priority reform areas” to further explore as part of the five productivity inquiries that the government has commissioned it to undertake.

    The commission’s March quarterly bulletin shows a 0.1% decline in labour productivity in the December quarter, and a 1.2% decline over the year.

    COVID produced a temporary lift in productivity but that soon passed.

    In general Australia’s labour productivity has not significantly increased in more than a decade.

    Welcoming the roundtable, Australian Industry Group Chief Executive Innes Willox said it was “critical that this tripartite summit focus on getting private sector investment moving again. Our economy and labour market has been unsustainably reliant on government spending for a prolonged period now.”

    Michelle Grattan does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Albanese announces first woman Treasury secretary and a ‘roundtable’ on boosting productivity – https://theconversation.com/albanese-announces-first-woman-treasury-secretary-and-a-roundtable-on-boosting-productivity-257334

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Thin, Light & Built to Last: The New Era of the Galaxy Z Series

    Source: Samsung

    While people have long valued smartphones for their power, convenience and usability, they’ve also expected a mobile device that blends versatility with portability. At Samsung Electronics, our drive to deliver the ultimate mobile experience has always been guided by the needs of our users.
     
    This unwavering commitment to meeting their evolving needs has driven the development and ongoing refinement of innovative form factors that consistently redefine the parameters of mobile experiences. Introduced in 2019, the first Galaxy Fold was a completely new form factor that combined the portability of a smartphone with the extensive productivity of a tablet — challenging conventional perceptions of what a smartphone could be.
     
    Driven by the bold vision that foldable phones could reconcile two seemingly conflicting demands — large screens and true portability — Samsung looked to other industries for inspiration, engineering a durable hinge and proving that smartphone displays, too, could fold. It was a synthesis of creativity and productivity that unlocked new possibilities – from seamless multitasking on the go to immersive content creation.
     
    But smartphones are constant companions that we tuck into our pockets, use with one hand and take everywhere we go. So it’s only natural that users desire a foldable device that is as easy to carry as it is to use. To that end,  Samsung engineers and designers are refining each generation of the Galaxy Z series to be thinner, lighter and more durable than the last.
     

     
    This year, that journey reaches a new milestone. The newest Galaxy Z series is the thinnest, lightest and most advanced foldable yet – meticulously crafted and built to last.
     
    The Ultra-experience is ready to unfold.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: CNPA Board bids farewell to Board members

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    CNPA Board bids farewell to Board members

    The CNPA Board bids farewell to long-serving members, Sir Craig Mackey and Sue Scane.

    Sir Craig Mackey QPM, Susan Johnson OBE, Simon Chesterman OBE QPM and Sue Scane.

    Two independent members of the Civil Nuclear Police Authority (CNPA) Board were presented with Civil Nuclear Constabulary (CNC) service plaques at the end of their final Board meeting last week.

    Sir Craig Mackey and Sue Scane both completed the maximum service – two terms of three years. Sir Craig served as interim chair in 2021/22 and Sue as chair of the Audit, Risk and Finance Committee (ARFC).

    Reflecting on his time in the role, Sir Craig said: “I first worked closely with CNC when I was the Chief Constable of Cumbria Constabulary. Ten years later and having retired from the Metropolitan Police, the board posts were advertised, and I jumped at the chance.

    “I consider myself very lucky to have got the role and have been fortunate to work with a range of industry members and independent members who all want CNC to be the best it can be. This, combined with the quality and commitment of people across CNC, getting to meet them at sites across the UK, hear about their achievements at Awards ceremonies and fully appreciate the complexity and risks that people are managing day-to-day, has made it a real privilege to be part of.”

    The people and the places were also the source of stand-out moments for Sue, for whom visiting sites and meeting officers and staff was both interesting and inspirational: “In all the locations we’ve visited, we have had the opportunity to speak with the officers and understand the organisation from their perspective. This has always brought the work in the Board room to life,” she said. 

    “Not that many people are able to see inside a nuclear power station – whether operational, under decommissioning, or under construction, but seeing each of these stages has also been really memorable, and makes you appreciate the complexity inherent in each site.”

    Looking back on what has been achieved during her time with the CNPA, Sue is pleased with the progress she has been part of: “I have always worked in areas where my job has been to ensure that the Governance of the organisation was embedded in the way people worked – whether they realised it or not – so it has been rewarding for me to see the improvements over the last six years.  Improved financial systems, the programme management which now delivers on time and within budget, and a costed medium-term plan which allows management to plan for the future.”

     The Chair of the CNPA, Susan Johnson, thanked them both, saying: “On behalf of the CNPA, I want to acknowledge the time that Sue and Craig have dedicated to the CNC and thank them for their service. During the six years they’ve been in post, they have brought significant knowledge and expertise to the work of the Board and helped to navigate the organisation through some challenging and exciting times.  Sue and Craig have provided wise counsel to our executive team whilst challenging the team in a constructive and supportive way to drive continuous improvement. 

    “Sue’s leadership of the Audit Risk and Finance Committee has strengthened the assurance to the Board that risks are effectively managed and that we are delivering an efficient and effective service to our Site Licence Companies.  Craig supported the organisation through a difficult period when he took on the role of interim Chair and he has also been the Board lead on professional standards, supporting the executive through peer review.  Craig’s extensive experience in Home Office policing has contributed positively to bring greater alignment of CNC pay, reward and pension conditions with those of Home Office forces. 

    “I would like to recognise the sterling support they have both provided and wish them the very best with whatever they do next. Thank you for your work, on behalf of us all at the CNPA.”

    Updates to this page

    Published 10 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Perth and Kinross maintains A rating for environmental action

    Source: Scotland – City of Perth

    The local area is one of 112 places worldwide working hard to take decisive, Earth-positive action to build resilience, manage climate impacts and create a better future for their communities.  

    The CDP, formerly known as the Carbon Disclosure Project, is a not-for-profit organisation that runs the global disclosure system for companies, cities, states and regions to manage their environmental impacts. 

    The continued A status also highlights how things have improved – in 2019, Perth and Kinross received a D-grade from the CDP, but by 2022 this had risen to a B rating, before achieving the highest grade possible in 2023, and maintaining this in 2024.  

    To score an A, among other actions, cities and local authorities must publicly disclose their environmental data through CDP, have an area-wide emissions inventory and have published a climate action plan. A listers must also complete a climate risk and vulnerability assessment and have a climate adaptation goal to demonstrate how it will tackle climate hazards. Many A List locations are also taking a variety of other leadership actions. 

    Climate Change and Sustainability Convener, Councillor Richard Watters said: “We’re very proud to be maintaining our place on the CDP A List again alongside locations around the world. We have seen the real impacts of climate change on the local area and taking appropriate, data-based steps to protect our environment and our communities into the future is vital.”  

    For more information about the CDP’s 2024 Cities, States and Regions A List, visit the CDP website.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI China: Honghe sweaters ‘dress’ their way into global market

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

    Tucked away in the misty folds of rural Zhejiang Province lies a township that could very well be one of fashion’s best kept secrets. Each year, over 400 million sweaters glide off production lines in Honghe — a name that barely registers on most global style radars, yet it has quietly knit itself into an industrial powerhouse with an annual turnover of over 20 billion yuan (about 2.78 billion U.S. dollars).

    A stroll through Honghe is like being transported into the heart of a living atelier. Yarn shops, accessory stores and design studios line the streets, while tricycles laden with raw materials zip through the shaded lanes in a rhythmic blur. This bustling scene hums with purpose, a fusion of tradition, ingenuity and the relentless pursuit of quality.

    Honghe’s sweater story began modestly in the mid-1970s with the town’s first commune-run knitting factory. By 1984, the local market was pulsing with promise, drawing in entrepreneurs like Gao Xiaohua, who moved his knitting machines and shop from his home to the market.

    His eye for quality — fastidiously hand-selecting yarns, obsessively testing for color fastness — earned him a loyal customer base and laid the foundation for what would become Zhejiang 30 Autumn Garments Co., Ltd.

    “When I first moved my new factory here, the road in front of the gate wasn’t even paved,” Gao recalled while pointing to Fumin Road. By 2002, his factory had expanded to an over 10,000 square meter lot, and was one entity among countless others helping the sweater industry in Honghe take shape.

    Today, in 30 Autumn’s intelligent workshop, workers deftly operate computerized knitting machines, producing intricate patterns and textures that cater to diverse tastes. With collaborative efforts, the company can churn out over 20,000 sweaters daily.

    Today, Honghe boasts over 20 large-scale sweater enterprises, creating jobs for 70,000 people and forming a complete industrial chain from spinning to sales.

    Honghe’s global reach is driven by its ability to meet international demands and make innovations. Shuosheng Apparel Co., Ltd., run by Zheng Youlan, has built a strong customer base in South America and Mexico. She learned firsthand during a trade mission to Dubai in 2024 that local buyers crave eco-friendly materials — a valuable insight that helped her expand her business.

    Honghe sweaters have been popular in the Middle East market for over 20 years, attracting more than 1,000 international buyers to place orders every year, with an annual export value reaching tens of millions of U.S. dollars, according to Zheng.

    In 2024, the town’s sweater export value reached 609 million yuan, up 20.38 percent year on year, contributing about one third of its total industrial export volume.

    The town’s innovation extends beyond the factory floor. The platform, Mao Shan Pai, a collaboration between the local government, state-owned companies and the local chamber of commerce, invites overseas trade delegations and organizes international visits for local enterprises. It also leverages AI technology to break down language barriers and showcase products through digital fashion shows, enhancing the town’s global presence.

    Stepping into the AI studio of Mao Shan Pai, the scene empowered by technology is refreshing. Multilingual digital avatars work around the clock to introduce new products to global buyers, making time zone and language barriers things of the past.

    The AI design system can generate 3D models of different styles wearing the sweaters based on a single flat image of a sweater, meeting various needs. The models’ postures and lighting effects can vividly display the texture, drape and other qualities of the sweaters.

    Mao Shan Pai integrates resources from eight major sweater markets, 10 industrial parks, over 2,000 enterprises and nearly 10,000 stall operators in Honghe.

    It provides one-stop digital trade services, simplifying the complex process of sweater exports. With over 10,000 new products released annually and nearly 2,600 registered overseas buyers, the platform has become a key driver of Honghe’s international success.

    “From domestic and international markets to digital infrastructure and industry integration, we are committed to making Honghe the global epicenter of sweaters,” said Xu Wei, secretary general of the Honghe sweater chamber of commerce. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Appeal for information on missing man in Tsuen Wan (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Appeal for information on missing man in Tsuen Wan     
         He is about 1.8 metres tall, around 95 kilograms in weight and of medium build. He has a round face with yellow complexion and short straight black hair. He was last seen wearing a black T-shirt, black shorts and white shoes.Issued at HKT 15:55

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Castle Peak Hospital appeals to public on missing patient

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Castle Peak Hospital appeals to public on missing patient 
         A 43-year-old female inpatient absconded at about 9am today during a dental follow-up appointment at a clinic outside CPH, for which she had been escorted by staff. CPH immediately reported the incident to the Police for assistance, and has informed the patient’s relatives. The hospital will fully co-operate with the Police for the search.
     
         The patient is 1.61 metres tall, is of medium build with a ponytail. She was wearing a dark blue long-sleeved top, a blue vest jacket and red trousers when she left the hospital.
     
         CPH has reported the case to the Hospital Authority Head Office via the Advance Incident Reporting System. The hospital appeals to the public to contact Tuen Mun Police Station at 3661 5810 if they know the whereabouts of the patient.
    Issued at HKT 16:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Special offers announced for Jul 1

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    To celebrate the 28th anniversary of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region’s establishment on July 1, the Government and different sectors of the community will launch a rich array of special offers and activities to share with the public the joy of Hong Kong’s return to the motherland.

    The MTR will give away 71,000 e-single journey tickets through a lucky draw on July 1 and provide Airport Express offers to holders of Child Octopus and JoyYou Cards.

    Free rides on several ferry routes will be offered on July 1, with vouchers for certain ferry routes to be distributed in advance. Citizens can also enjoy free rides on all passenger tram routes from July 1 to 3.

    On July 1, the use of fee-charging leisure and cultural facilities of the Leisure & Cultural Services Department and admission to the Hong Kong Wetland Park under the Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation Department will be complimentary.

    The public can also enjoy free admission to all General Admission exhibitions at M+ and all thematic exhibitions at the Hong Kong Palace Museum.

    Additional free guided tours, dining, consumption and accommodation offers will be available from mid-June to early July by the 12 projects under the Revitalising Historic Buildings Through Partnership Scheme.

    As for dining and consumption, over 1,000 restaurants and merchants are expected to provide dining offers on July 1.

    Several public markets under the Food & Environmental Hygiene Department will roll out offers. Additionally, people can enjoy a 29% discount when purchasing selected products via the “Local Fresh” online store or mobile app from July 1 to 7.

    The Environmental Protection Department will award double GREEN$ Points to users who recycle at GREEN@COMMUNITY on July 1.

    Separately, the Peak Tram, Ngong Ping 360 and Ocean Park will offer ticket discounts, while Hong Kong International Airport, Hong Kong Science Park, various shopping malls and department stores will roll out shopping, dining, consumption or parking offers.

    The Hong Kong Tourism Board will team up with local businesses to provide various dining, shopping, attractions, tours and entertainment deals.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: CEM Africa Summit 2025: Leading the Future of Customer Experience with Artificial Intelligence Innovation

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    CAPE TOWN, South Africa, June 10, 2025/APO Group/ —

    The CEM Africa Summit 2025 is set to redefine the future of customer experience (CX) by placing Artificial Intelligence (AI) at the heart of the conversation. With the rapid evolution of AI technologies, the summit will bring together thought leaders, innovators, and industry experts to explore how AI is transforming CX across industries such as finance, retail, and telecoms.

    This year’s summit, taking place from 12 – 14 August, will feature an impressive lineup of speakers who are at the forefront of AI and CX. Notable figures include:

    • Ben Phillips, Head of Customer Experience Performance Centre, Fujitsu
    • Daryl Wilkes, Director of Customer Care, ASOS.com
    • Tatiana Ndluvo, Executive Head: Marketing Nedbank Africa Region, Nedbank
    • Gedeon Rossouw, Head of Client Care, Absa
    • Marnitz Van Heerden, Head of Customer Experience, Discovery
    • Francois Retief, Head of Customer Experience, FNB

    As a hub for senior CX and operational leaders, CEM Africa Summit will showcase cutting-edge AI applications that are reshaping how companies interact with their customers. With over 700 senior leaders from across Africa’s leading industries in attendance, the summit offers a unique opportunity to explore how AI solutions can enhance personalization, predict customer needs, and streamline service delivery.

    Key Highlights of CEM Africa Summit 2025:

    • AI-driven CX Strategy Sessions: Learn from global leaders on how AI is transforming customer service, improving operational efficiencies, and personalizing experiences at scale.
    • Workshops on implementing AI tools in CX management, from chatbots to data analytics, with hands-on demonstrations from tech providers.
    • Networking Opportunities with decision-makers in CX and technology, helping brands connect with partners, suppliers, and key customers across industries.

    Agenda Insights

    The CEM Africa Summit 2025 will feature a series of forward-looking panels and workshops focused on AI in CX. Attendees can look forward to discussions on:

    • Harnessing AI for Real-Time Customer Insights: How AI-powered analytics can help businesses understand customer behavior and tailor experiences in real time.
    • AI and Automation in Contact Centers: Exploring how AI is streamlining customer interactions and empowering agents with intelligent tools for faster resolution.
    • Ethics of AI in Customer Experience: A panel of industry leaders will discuss the ethical implications of AI in customer service, focusing on data privacy, algorithmic transparency, and human-centric AI design.

    “We are excited to bring together thought leaders who are shaping the future of AI in customer experience,” said Terry Southam, Group Portfolio Director at VUKA Group. “The CEM Africa Summit 2025 will provide our audience with the knowledge and tools to adopt AI solutions that will transform their businesses and enhance their customer interactions.”

    CEM Africa Summit 2025 is a must-attend event for any business leader looking to stay ahead in the AI-powered future of customer experience. For more information on speakers, sessions, and how to attend, visit [Event Website].

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: APR (Rwanda) and Petro de Luanda (Angola) Advance to Basketball Africa League (BAL) Semifinals in Pretoria

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    Pretoria, South Africa, June 10, 2025/APO Group/ —

    APR (Rwanda)  punched its ticket to the Basketball Africa League (BAL) (https://BAL.NBA.com/) Semifinals with a commanding 104–73 victory over Rivers Hoopers (Nigeria). Nuni Omot led the charge with 21 points, while Aliou Diarra contributed a double-double of 20 points and 10 rebounds. The Rwandan side shot an impressive 50% from beyond the arc and 62.5% from the field overall. For the River Hoopers, Madut Akec paced the team with 21 points, and Raphael Putney chipped in 12.

    Meanwhile, the defending champions Petro de Luanda (Angola) are heading back to the BAL Semifinals after a 95–84 win over US Monastir (Tunisia). Kendrick Ray led all scorers with 20 points, while Yanick Moreira added 15. US Monastir was led by Patrick Hardy Jr. with 17 points, and Firas Lahyani added 15 in the loss.

    The BAL Semifinals are set for Wednesday, July 11. Al Ahli Tripoli (Libya) will face APR at 4:00 p.m. CAT, followed by Al Ittihad (Egypt) vs. Petro de Luanda (Angola) at 7:00 p.m. CAT.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK Schools invited to apply for ‘Taskmaster Club 100’ initiative

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    UK Schools invited to apply for ‘Taskmaster Club 100’ initiative

    Intellectual Property Office (IPO) partners with Taskmaster Education to offer new skills building opportunity for secondary schools.

    The main developments are:

    • the Intellectual Property Office has partnered with Taskmaster Education to launch a new creative skills opportunity for UK secondary school students aged 11 to 16

    • ‘Taskmaster Club 100’ applications open on 10 June 2025 and close on 15 August 2025. Successful schools will be notified by 1 September 2025

    • selected schools will gain free access to Taskmaster Club resources and have the unique chance to win a virtual lesson with Alex Horne and more

    The IPO has partnered with Taskmaster Education to launch ‘Taskmaster Club 100’. This innovative new initiative focuses on building essential skills in the next generation of innovators through fun classroom activities. It aims to make creative learning opportunities accessible to students aged 11 to 16 across the UK from every background, and in diverse educational settings.

    Up to 100 selected schools will receive exclusive access to the ‘Taskmaster Club Bathtub’ series of fun, interactive task-focused lesson plans. These ready-to-implement activities help develop key skills like reasoning, problem-solving, creativity, teamwork, perseverance, oracy and resilience, delivering multiple educational outcomes.

    The series includes valuable intellectual property (IP) competencies in teaching notes, empowering educators to enhance activities with concepts of creative ownership, value and protection. These help students develop vital skills in understanding and respecting intellectual property rights in today’s increasingly digital and interconnected world.

    To join Taskmaster Club 100, schools simply need to complete a short application form online to register their interest – or in the words of Alex Horne: “click the link and fill in a thing.”

    Applications open 10 June 2025, and the successful schools will be notified by 1 September 2025.

    The IPO’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Adam Williams said:

    An understanding of IP and a respect for others’ IP rights is a vital life skill – inside and outside of the classroom. In today’s connected environment, young people increasingly create and use IP, accessing and developing digital content independently and regularly. The Taskmaster format uniquely encourages creative thinking, perseverance and teamwork – helping to develop the ideas that will shape tomorrow.

    Our partnership with Taskmaster Education will help support schools to nurture the development of these crucial skills in UK schools in a fun and exciting way. Together, we look forward to enabling and accelerating access to innovation learning opportunities and inspiring the next generation of creators and innovators.

    The initiative includes:

    • free access to the versatile ‘Taskmaster Club Bathtub’ series
    • minimal preparation requirements for busy teachers
    • a creative invention competition (concluding in December 2025)

    The initiative is designed to be flexible, with schools able to implement activities in various ways. Previously, schools have implemented Taskmaster activities for inter-house competitions, transition events, personal development lessons, and off-timetable resilience building. This versatility ensures the programme benefits all students.

    Feedback from schools already using Taskmaster materials, including the Bathtub series has been overwhelmingly positive.

    Katie Walker, Dean Trust Ardwick, Greater Manchester, said:

    Taskmaster club has been a great addition to our extra-curricular. In secondary school children start to become more socially conscious which can stop them from thriving and building key skills. Taskmaster combats this.

    Alex McKinnon, St Martin’s School, Shropshire, said:

    Guaranteed silliness that made me view my pupils’ creative skills with new eyes.

    Another secondary teacher added:

    We used the Taskmaster package as a drop-down day for Year 11. It was a really beneficial and fun day for them. Students were able to see how thinking outside the box and working as a team helps them to solve problems. A really good day to help them start to think about the upcoming exams.

    Comedian and Taskmaster creator Alex Horne commented:

    Taskmaster Club has already proven to be an immense hit in classrooms across the country. This partnership with the IPO allows us to help even more young people develop problem-solving and communication skills while having fun. I can’t wait to see what these students invent!

    Dr Ali Struthers and James Blake-Lobb, Co-Founders of Taskmaster Education added:

    We’ve loved seeing Taskmaster Club being used at secondary level to improve key skills and outcomes. The programme’s success comes from its naturally inclusive approach – different tasks allow different students to shine, ensuring everyone has opportunities to experience success and build confidence. We’re excited to partner with the IPO on Taskmaster Club 100 to continue developing young people’s curiosity and creativity across more UK schools.

    Teachers interested in can visit Taskmaster Education’s website for more information.

    The application deadline is 15 August 2025.

    Additional Information:

    • complete the digital application form to register your interest

    • selected schools will also gain exclusive early access to new IPO x Taskmaster Education resources

    • selected schools will also have the opportunity to win a virtual lesson with Alex Horne and a year’s subscription to Taskmaster Club by submitting students’ creative inventions to Taskmaster’s ‘Club 100’ national competition, closing in December 2025

    • Taskmaster Education adapts the format of Channel 4’s Taskmaster to create fun and educational experiences for children and young people. In the show, the Taskmaster and his assistant Little Alex Horne challenge comedians with creative tasks. Taskmaster Education uses similar activities to develop important skills in children. These skills include problem-solving, teamwork, and critical thinking. Taskmaster Education provides a flexible and engaging way to inspire learning in classrooms and beyond

    • schools can set up their own Taskmaster Club for pupils. This allows children to try more tasks while developing important life skills. These skills include teamwork, creativity, and reasoning. The Club series that includes the Kids Invent Stuff task is called ‘Bathtub’. To find out more, visit the Taskmaster Education website

    • the IPO has also developed a range of tools, guidance and teaching resources IP in Education for primary, secondary, further and higher education, researchers and university management

    • alternative application methods are available by emailing CrackingIdeas@ipo.gov.uk

    Updates to this page

    Published 10 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • 11 years of Modi govt: Flagship schemes drive India’s sporting transformation

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Over the past 11 years, India has witnessed a dramatic transformation in its sporting landscape, driven by a series of ambitious flagship schemes launched under the Modi government. From building grassroots infrastructure to supporting Olympic medal hopefuls, the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has played a pivotal role in shaping a new sporting era for the nation.

    With India’s youth forming nearly 65% of its population, the government has identified sports as a key tool for empowerment and nation-building. Reflecting this, the sports ministry’s budget has seen a 130.9% increase from ₹1,643 crore in 2014–15 to a record ₹3,794 crore in 2025–26.

    Central to this transformation is the Khelo India programme, launched in 2016–17. With ₹1,000 crore allocated in the latest budget, it has supported the creation of over 1,000 training centres, approved 326 infrastructure projects, and nurtured nearly 2,845 athletes through coaching and financial assistance.

    The Khelo India Games—covering youth, university, para and winter editions—have grown significantly, with over 50,000 athletes participating in 17 editions since 2018. Talent identification is being sharpened through KIRTI, a data-driven program using AI-based protocols to scout young talent aged 9–18.

    At the elite level, the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) has backed India’s Olympic and Paralympic champions, offering customized training and monthly allowances to core athletes. The results are evident: India won 7 medals at Tokyo 2020 and 6 at Paris 2024, while Paralympians clinched a record 29 medals in Paris.

    The Fit India Movement, launched in 2019, has further promoted a culture of fitness through mass participation events, online campaigns, and family engagement sessions.

    In addition, a ₹200 crore special package has bolstered sports infrastructure in Jammu & Kashmir, while programs under Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan (NYKS) have empowered youth across 623 districts.

    From village-level talent to international podiums, India’s sports ecosystem is now more inclusive, robust, and performance-driven than ever. As the nation looks ahead to the 2036 Olympics and beyond, these initiatives reflect a clear vision: to make India a top-10 sporting nation in the world.

  • 11 years of Modi govt: Indian athletes shine on global stage with record-breaking performances

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India’s sporting achievements have witnessed a remarkable surge over the past 11 years, with Indian athletes delivering historic performances across major international competitions. Backed by flagship initiatives like Khelo India, TOPS, and KIRTI, the country has steadily climbed the global sporting ladder.

    At the Olympics, India went from winning just 2 medals at Rio 2016 to a record 7 medals at Tokyo 2020 and 6 at Paris 2024. Star performers such as Neeraj Chopra, who clinched India’s first Olympic athletics gold, and Mirabai Chanu in weightlifting, led the way in India’s Olympic resurgence.

    The Paralympics marked an even more dramatic transformation. From just 4 medals in Rio 2016, India bagged 19 in Tokyo 2020 and a record-breaking 29 medals in Paris 2024, including 7 golds. This success reflects the impact of structured support and inclusion of para-athletes in schemes like TOPS and the Khelo India Para Games.

    India’s rise continued at the Asian Games, where the Hangzhou 2023 edition became historic with 107 medals from a record 655-member contingent. Similarly, at the Commonwealth Games, India consistently maintained strong performances, securing over 60 medals in each edition from 2014 to 2022.

    Indian athletes also made global headlines elsewhere—winning double gold at the 2024 FIDE Chess Olympiad, a gold in javelin at the World Athletics Championships 2023, and a historic Thomas Cup win in badminton in 2022. Shooters and para-table tennis players also delivered standout performances in global competitions.

    India has also emerged as a hub for major international sports events, hosting the FIDE Chess Olympiad (Chennai), MotoGP Bharat (Noida), BIMSTEC Aquatics Championship (Delhi), and the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup (Bhubaneswar). In 2023, India hosted the prestigious IOC Session in Mumbai, further strengthening its role in global sports diplomacy.

    With increased investment, strategic planning, and world-class talent, India’s sporting transformation under the Modi government is no longer a vision — it’s an unfolding reality. As the country eyes the 2036 Olympics, its journey towards becoming a top-10 sporting nation is firmly on track.

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man charged with Hammersmith murder

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A man has been charged with murder following the death of a woman in Hammersmith.

    Apapale Adoum, 39, (12.02.1986) of no fixed address, was charged on Thursday, 5 June with the murder of Victoria Adams, aged 36.

    Adoum appeared at Wimbledon Magistrates’ Court on Friday, 6 June. He was remanded in custody to appear at the Old Bailey on Tuesday, 10 June.

    On Sunday, 9 February at 22:13hrs, police were called to a residential property in Coulter Road, following reports that a man was attempting to force entry into one of the flats. Officers arrived and having gained entry to the property found a woman, aged 36, who had sadly died.

    A 38-year-old man was initially arrested on Sunday, 9 February at the scene on suspicion of murder and subsequently charged as above.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Samarkand 2026: ADB’s 59th Annual Meeting in the Heart of History

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    Uzbekistan will host the Asian Development Bank’s (ADB) 59th Annual Meeting on 3 to 6 May 2026. The meeting will be held in the historic city of Samarkand, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. This is the second time that Uzbekistan will host the ADB Annual Meeting, following the successful 43rd Annual Meeting in Tashkent in 2010.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: [Toyota Times] [Breaking] Chairman Toyoda Shares Real Intentions Behind Toyota Industries Privatization

    Source: Toyota

    Headline: [Toyota Times] [Breaking] Chairman Toyoda Shares Real Intentions Behind Toyota Industries Privatization

    An announcement on June 3 confirmed that Toyota Industries would be taken private, accompanied by the creation of a new holding company. We spoke with four of the key figures involved, about returning to Toyota’s roots to create its future.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Greens react to plans for new nuclear plant at Sizewell

    Source: Green Party of England and Wales

    / by Green Party

    Responding to news that EDF will build a new nuclear power plant at Sizewell at an estimated cost of over £14bn, co-leader of the Green Party, Adrian Ramsay MP, said: 

     “Nuclear power is hugely expensive and far too slow to come on line. The only thing delivered by EDF so far at Hinkley Point in Somerset is overspend and delay. Electricity was promised by 2017 with a price tag of £22bn but this has mushroomed to 40bn and Hinkley is still producing no power.  

    “The money being spent on this nuclear gamble would be far better spent on insulating and retrofitting millions of homes, bringing down energy bills and keeping people warmer and more comfortable. We should also be investing in genuinely green power such as fitting millions of solar panels to roofs and in innovative technologies like tidal power. All this would create many more jobs than nuclear ever will.”   

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Thousands of jobs to be created as government announces multi-billion-pound investment to build Sizewell C

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Thousands of jobs to be created as government announces multi-billion-pound investment to build Sizewell C

    10,000 jobs, including 1,500 apprenticeships, to be created as the government announces multi-billion investment to build Sizewell C.

    • Chancellor to confirm funding at the GMB Congress ahead of Spending Review, as Energy Secretary vows ‘golden age’ of nuclear.
    • Investment to deliver clean power to millions of homes, cut energy bills and boost energy security.
    • Government commits over £6 billion of investment to nuclear submarine industrial base to deliver on Strategic Defence Review.

    Ten thousand jobs will be created as the government announces a £14.2 billion investment to build Sizewell C nuclear plant as part of the Spending Review, ending years of delay and uncertainty. 

    The Chancellor is set to confirm the funding at the GMB Congress later today ahead of the government’s Spending Review, as the Energy Secretary vows a ‘golden age’ of nuclear to boost the UK’s energy security. 

    The government’s investment will go towards creating 10,000 jobs, including 1,500 apprenticeships, and support thousands more jobs across the UK. 

    The company has already signed £330 million in contracts with local companies and will boost supply chains across the UK with 70% of contracts predicted to go to 3,500 British suppliers – supporting new jobs in construction, welding, and hospitality.   

    The equivalent of around six million of today’s homes will be powered with clean homegrown energy from Sizewell C. The investment in clean, homegrown power brings to an end decades of dithering and delay, with the government backing the builders in the drive for energy security and kick-starting economic growth.  

    The announcement comes as the government is set to confirm one of Europe’s first Small Modular Reactor programmes. This comes alongside record investment in R&D for fusion energy, worth over £2.5 billion over five years. Taken together with Sizewell C, this delivers the biggest nuclear building programme in a generation.

    Clean, home-grown power at Sizewell C will help drive the UK’s energy security, as part of the government’s mission to protect family finances by replacing the UK’s dependency on fossil fuel markets controlled by dictators with homegrown power that we control.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, said:

    Today we are once again investing in Britian’s renewal, with the biggest nuclear building programme in a generation. This landmark decision is our Plan for Change in action.  

    We are creating thousands of jobs, kickstarting economic growth and putting more money people’s pockets.

    Energy Secretary, Ed Miliband said:

    We will not accept the status quo of failing to invest in the future and energy insecurity for our country.  

    We need new nuclear to deliver a golden age of clean energy abundance, because that is the only way to protect family finances, take back control of our energy, and tackle the climate crisis. 

    This is the government’s clean energy mission in action- investing in lower bills and good jobs for energy security.

    Sizewell C

    Sizewell C will provide 10,000 people with employment at peak construction and support thousands more jobs across the UK, including 1,500 apprenticeships. The company has already signed £330 million in contracts with local companies and will boost supply chains across the UK with 70% of contracts predicted to go to 3,500 British suppliers – supporting new jobs in construction, welding, and hospitality. Jobs in the nuclear industry pay well above national averages and the government is committed to working with nuclear trade unions such as the GMB, Unite, and Prospect, who will continue to play a pivotal role in building the industry.   

    Despite the UK’s strong nuclear legacy, opening the world’s first commercial nuclear power station in the 1950s, no new nuclear plant has opened in the UK since 1995, with all of the existing fleet except Sizewell B likely to be phased out by the early 2030s.  

    Sizewell C was one of eight sites identified in 2009 by then-Energy Secretary Ed Miliband as a potential site for new nuclear. However, the project was not fully funded in the 14 years that followed under subsequent governments.  

    The government’s nuclear programme is now the most ambitious for a generation – once small modular reactors and Sizewell C come online in the 2030s, combined with Hinkley Point C, this will deliver more new nuclear to grid than over the previous half century combined.

    Small Modular Reactors

    Great British Nuclear is expected to announce the outcome of its small modular reactor competition imminently, the first step towards the goal of driving down costs and unlocking private finance with a long-term ambition to bring forward one of the first SMR fleets in Europe.  

    The government’s nuclear resurgence will support the UK’s long-term energy security, with small modular reactors expected to power millions of homes with clean energy and help fuel power-hungry industries like AI data centres.   

    This follows reforms to planning rules announced by the Prime Minister in February 2025 to make it easier to build nuclear across the country – changing the rules to back the builders of this nation, and saying no to the blockers who have strangled our chances of cheaper energy, growth and jobs for far too long.   

    The government is also looking to provide a route for private sector-led advanced nuclear projects to be deployed in the UK, alongside investing £300m in developing the world’s first non-Russian supply of the advanced fuels needed to run them.   

    Companies will be able to work with the government to continue their development with potential investment from the National Wealth Fund.

    Fusion Energy

    The government is also making a record investment in R&D for fusion energy, investing over £2.5 billion over 5 years. This includes progressing the STEP programme (Spherical Tokamak for Energy Production), the world-leading fusion plant in Nottinghamshire, creating thousands of new jobs and with the potential to unlock limitless clean power.  

    This builds on the UK’s global leadership to turbocharge economic growth in the Oxford-Cambridge corridor, while helping deliver the UK’s flagship programme to design and build a prototype fusion power station on the site of a former coal-fired plant.

    Defence

    To secure the UK as a leader in both civil and defence nuclear, the government will also be investing £4 billion over the next decade in the Plymouth naval base as well as continued long-term investment in our Defence Nuclear Enterprise and its industrial base, as this is critical for our national security while also being a significant generator of economic opportunities, jobs and growth across the entire country. Further investments in the defence nuclear sector include over £6 billion over the Spending Review period to enable a transformation in the capacity, capability and productivity of the UK’s submarine industrial base, including at BAE Systems in Barrow and Rolls-Royce Submarines in Derby – to deliver the increase in the submarine production rate announced in the Strategic Defence Review. 

    In addition, we will embark on a multi-decade, multi-billion redevelopment of HMNB Clyde, with an initial £250 million of funding over 3 years, supporting jobs, skills and growth across the West of Scotland. 

    The government will also invest over £420 million of additional funding in Sheffield Forgemasters, securing 700 existing skilled jobs and creating over 900 new construction roles.

    Julia Pyke and Nigel Cann, Joint-Managing Directors of Sizewell C said:

    Today marks the start of an exciting new chapter for Sizewell C, the UK’s first British-owned nuclear power plant in over 30 years. It’s a privilege to be leading a project that will create over 10,000 jobs, secure Britain’s energy future and revitalise the UK’s nuclear industry.

    We aim to showcase British infrastructure at its best – delivering a cleaner, more secure energy future for generations to come.

    Warren Kenny, GMB Regional Secretary, said:

    Sizewell C is absolutely vital if the UK is to hit net zero.

    Nuclear power is essential for clean, affordable, and reliable energy – without new nuclear there can be no net zero.

    Sizewell C will provide thousands of good, skilled, unionised jobs and we look forward to working closely with the government and Sizewell C to help secure a greener future for this country’s energy sector.

    Mike Clancy, General Secretary of Prospect, said:

    Delivering this funding for Sizewell C is a vital step forward, this project is critical to securing the future of the nuclear industry in the UK.

    New nuclear is essential to achieving net zero, providing a baseload of clean and secure energy, as well as supporting good, unionised jobs.

    Further investment in SMRs and fusion research shows we are finally serious about developing a 21st century nuclear industry. All funding must be backed up by a whole-industry plan to ensure we have the workforce and skills we need for these plans to succeed.

    Tom Greatrex, Chief Executive of the Nuclear Industry Association, said:

    This new nuclear programme will give the country the jobs, the economic growth and the energy security we need to ensure a secure and reliable power supply for the future. This announcement shows the government is serious about new nuclear, and realising the economic benefits that come with it, and will be welcomed in communities the length and breadth of Britain.

    Updates to this page

    Published 10 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Busting myths about LGBTQ+ foster carers

    Source: City of Derby

    At Foster for East Midlands Councils, we welcome foster carers from all communities – what is important is your ability to offer a safe, supportive, and loving home. As we honour Pride Month, we’re shining a light on the incredible contribution LGBTQ+ carers make to our fostering community and want to encourage more people to consider whether fostering could be the perfect role for them.  

    Whether you’re part of the LGBTQ+ community, an ally, or simply want to learn more, this Q&A may help highlight the vital role LGBTQ+ carers play in transforming children’s lives.

    Who can foster?

    Anyone over the age of 21 years old can foster!  What is important is that you have the space and time in your life to give a child the love, safety and routine that they need.  All of our children are different, and we know having a vibrant and diverse community of foster carers with families of all shapes and sizes gives us the best chance to provide the nurturing environments they all need.  

    How do I start the process to become a foster carer?

    The first step is to speak to someone on the Foster for East Midlands team about you and your circumstances.  You will receive a friendly and welcoming response – we are always looking at the potential people have to become foster carers.  Any aspects of your life that are more personal to you are treated sensitively and respectfully – we know that some aspects that a person might feel more cautious about sharing are actually what make you more skilled in understanding how a child in your care might be feeling. 

    What does the assessment to become a foster carer look like?

    All of our foster carers across our four councils go through the same assessment to become a foster carer.  The assessment looks at you, your life and circumstances, and how these shape the type of carer you can be for a child.  We know that your identity is an important part of you and your life and this is celebrated within the assessment.  At Foster for East Midlands we are committed to equality and inclusivity.

    What support will I receive?

    We know how important support is for our foster carers.  All four councils within our region offer a comprehensive, inclusive support package, including support that is bespoke to you and your family.  You will have your own social worker who will be there to support, advocate, guide and celebrate with you as a foster carer.  You will also be part of more informal support networks with like-minded carers – for our LGBT+ carers and allies, alongside other support groups we have a Fostering Inclusivity group where you can share valuable information, guidance and resources to support you and the children in your care.

    How will I be matched with a child to care for?

    We understand the importance of finding the right fostering home for every one of our children – we consider you and your circumstances alongside the child’s needs and background as part of this process.

    Pride is More Than a Month

    Pride Month is a time to celebrate love, identity, and inclusion—but our commitment doesn’t end in June. At Foster for East Midlands Councils, we stand with the LGBTQ+ community every single day. We know that love makes a family—and LGBTQ+ foster carers bring love, compassion, and resilience to the children they care for.

    Thinking About Fostering?

    If you’ve ever considered fostering—or just want to learn more—we’d love to hear from you. Whether you’re single, in a couple, LGBTQ+ or not, what matters most is your heart. Together, we can create brighter futures for children across the East Midlands. Get in touch with your local council fostering team via Foster for East Midlands Councils today call 03033 132 950, email hello@fosterforeastmidlands.org.uk.

    Read Lyn and Shelley’s foster carers story, caring for over 100 children – visit our news web page 

    Fostering information events, online and in-person
    Come and say hello, and lets talk fostering. 

    Pride Events Foster for East Midlands will be attending are: 

    Special ‘All for One’ Drop-In Event
    Friday 13 June, 3.30pm and 7pm

    Arnold Library, 161 Front Street, Arnold, Nottingham NG5 7EE

    Drop in anytime during the session to find out everything about fostering.

    Online via Zoom
    Email hello@fosterforeastmidlands.org.uk for a link to join:

    • Friday 20 June, 12pm–1pm
    • Tuesday 1 July, 6:30pm–7:30pm
    • Thursday 17 July, 12 noon–1pm

    In Person
    Register your place at fosterforeastmidlands.org.uk/events:

    • Wednesday 25 June, 6pm–7pm, Belper Leisure Centre
    • Tuesday 8 July, 6:15pm–7:15pm, Richard Herrod Centre, Nottingham
    • Tuesday 22 July, 6:30pm–7:30pm, Nottingham Road Fire Station, Derby

    For full event details and more, visit Foster for East Midlands information event web page. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Professor Mohammed Ali Beravi became an Honorary Doctor of SPbPU

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    On June 9, a solemn ceremony of presenting the mantle and diploma of Honorary Doctor of SPbPU to Professor Mohammed Ali Beravi took place at Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University.

    In accordance with the official regulations, the title of “Honorary Doctor of Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University” is awarded to outstanding figures in science and technology, education and culture, as well as leading specialists from Russia and foreign countries for significant contribution to the development of advanced areas of knowledge and science, whose activities contribute to strategic development, expansion of areas of cooperation and increasing the authority of the university at the international level. The decision to award the title of Honorary Doctor of SPbPU to Mohammed Ali Beravi was unanimously adopted by the members of the SPbPU Academic Council on September 27, 2024. The University’s Scientific Secretary Dmitry Karpov introduced the new Honorary Doctor.

    Mohamed Ali Berawi is a Professor of Engineering, M.Eng., Ph.D., and Professor in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, and Executive Director of the Center for Sustainable Infrastructure Development, University of Indonesia. He is the Chairman of the Indonesian Faculty Association and the Advisory Board of the Forum of Professional Organizations in Science and Technology, Director of the Center for Sustainable Infrastructure Development, Executive Director of the ASEAN University Network for Sustainable Cities and Urbanization, and the Leader of the Smart Cities Working Group of the Association of Pacific Rim Universities Sustainable Cities and Landscapes. Mohamed Ali Berawi was ranked in the top 2% of scientists in the world by Elsevier and Stanford University from 2021 to 2024.

    Professor Berawi has served as a leading advisor to the Ministry of Transport of the Republic of Indonesia, Chairman of the Standing Committee on Strategic Infrastructure Policy of the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce, and Member Secretary of the Presidential Advisory Council of the Republic of Indonesia. Since 2022, he has served as the Deputy for Green and Digital Transformation at Nusantara Metropolitan Office in Indonesia.

    Students in the uniform of the Polytechnic University of the early 20th century brought in the doctoral mantle, the Polyhymnia choir performed the Gaudeamus anthem. Rector of SPbPU, academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences Andrey Rudskoy presented a book about honorary doctors of the Polytechnic University, which has a page dedicated to Mohammed Ali Beravi.

    Awarding the title of Honorary Doctor of SPbPU to Professor Beravi is a recognition of his outstanding achievements in science and practical activities aimed at sustainable development and the implementation of advanced technologies. His work is ideally in line with the spirit and strategic goals of our university. His many years of work at the Polytechnic contributed to the development of the master’s programs “Bioeconomics” and “Energy Economics”, where he shared his competencies in the field of sustainable development of territories using the city of Nusantara as an example. In particular, Professor Beravi taught courses and supervised, together with Polytechnic teachers, students’ research work in English. Together with Professor Beravi and his Indonesian colleagues, the Polytechnic hopes to implement a joint project on modeling the development of smart cities, – Andrey Rudskoy emphasized.

    It is a great honour for me to receive the title of Honorary Doctor of the Polytechnic University. This recognition reflects our shared commitment to the development of knowledge, innovation and international cooperation. I hope that this achievement will inspire our joint initiatives in the field of science and technology development. I believe that science and technology should serve higher purposes, offering real solutions that improve the quality of life, support sustainability and ensure a better future for the next generations, – thanked Professor Mohamed Ali Berawi.

    The ceremony was also attended by the Honorary Consul of the Republic of Indonesia in St. Petersburg, President of the Association of Industrial Enterprises of St. Petersburg Valery Radchenko, a graduate of the Polytechnic University. He congratulated Professor Mohammed Ali Berawi on receiving the honorary title. In addition, the Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia to the Russian Federation and the Republic of Belarus Jose Tavares sent his congratulations in the form of a video message.

    After the ceremony, Mohammed Ali Berawi met with Indonesian students who performed the national dance Ratoh Jaroe.

    We are immensely proud that Professor Mohammed Ali Berawi is part of the Polytechnic family. It is a great honor for us that a world-class scientist, whose projects change the future of cities, has been making a significant contribution to the development of our university for many years. It is especially inspiring that he is our fellow countryman, glorifying Indonesia and Polytech on the global stage. We say with all our hearts: Welcome home, Professor, Selamat datang di Polytech! — shared the chairman of the Indonesian community at SPbPU, a postgraduate student of IMMiT Tegu Imanullah.

    Professor Mohammed Ali Beravi gave a lecture to students and staff of the university at the Technopolis Polytech research complex. Before that, Vice-Rector for Youth Policy and Communication Technologies Maxim Pasholikov awarded Professor Beravi with gratitude and a commemorative medal of SPbPU for assisting in the development of the University Endowment Fund.

    The lecture was dedicated to the creation of a smart sustainable city Nusantara — the new capital of Indonesia, where environmental responsibility and digital innovations are combined. The concept is based on the triad of Nature 5.0, Industry 4.0 and Society 5.0, which ensures the restoration of nature through technological progress, innovations for sustainable development and a human-oriented society. Nusantara is designed as the world’s first carbon-neutral city by 2045. To achieve this, 65% of its territory will be occupied by restored tropical forests — natural absorbers of CO₂. Among the innovations are autonomous transport and “smart buildings”. Professor Berawi presented the national project being implemented, which will become a global example of the balance between technology, ecology and the quality of life of people.

    During the visit, Mohammed Ali Beravi was given a tour of the Main Academic Building. He visited the SPbPU History Museum, the White Hall, the Reading Room, and looked at the gallery of outstanding polytechnic scientists. Professor Beravi was also told about the Polytechnic Supercomputer Center and the MetaCampus Polytech project of the Civil Engineering Institute.

    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 Russia: The 9th International Conference on Digital Belt and Road Opens in Chengdu

    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 10 (Xinhua) — The 9th International Conference on Digital Belt and Road, focusing on cooperation in applying digital technologies to global sustainable development, opened in Chengdu, capital of southwest China’s Sichuan Province, on Monday.

    The event was jointly organized by the Digital Belt and Road Initiative (DBAR), Chengdu Institute of Technology and the International Big Data Research Center for Sustainable Development Goals, according to a statement posted on the official website of the Chengdu Municipal People’s Government.

    The conference was attended by experts, scientists and representatives of institutions from nearly 30 countries and regions around the world.

    Speaking at the opening ceremony, DBAR Chairman Guo Huadong, a member of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, pointed out that 2025 is the tenth year of global efforts to advance the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. DBAR will continue to deepen cooperation with governments, research institutes and international organizations to advance the formation of sustainable development solutions with digital technologies at the core.

    Launched by Chinese scientists in 2016, the DBAR program has produced a series of widely recognized knowledge products to respond to sustainable development challenges in eight areas: agriculture and food security, climate and environment, disaster risk, natural and cultural heritage, cities and infrastructure, water resources and water security, coastal zones and oceans, and mountains and polar cold zones. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: UN chief warns against turning deep sea into ‘Wild West’

    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

    NICE, France, June 10 (Xinhua) — Countries must respect science and international law when it comes to exploiting the seabed to prevent it from becoming a lawless “Wild West,” U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said Monday at the opening of the third U.N. Ocean Conference in Nice, southeastern France.

    He said there was a need to balance legitimate concerns about environmental impacts with legitimate interests in using ocean resources to support economic sustainability and the transition to green energy. He stressed that future actions should be “science-based, precautionary and consistent with the rights and obligations enshrined in the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.”

    “I support the ongoing work of the International Seabed Authority on this important issue. The deep sea cannot become the Wild West,” the Secretary-General added.

    The third UN Ocean Conference, co-hosted by France and Costa Rica, aims to contribute to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 14 (SDG14): conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources.

    Speaking at the opening of the conference, French President Emmanuel Macron also spoke out against deep-sea exploitation, warning that much of the seabed remains largely unexplored. “It is madness to exploit the deep sea before exploration has even begun… A moratorium on deep sea exploitation is an international imperative,” Macron said.

    “The deep sea is not for sale, just like Greenland, Antarctica or the open sea,” he said.

    In April, US President Donald Trump signed an executive order allowing deep-sea mining, a unilateral move that drew criticism from the International Seabed Authority. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Direct Pyongyang-Moscow rail service to be resumed

    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

    Vladivostok, June 10 (Xinhua) — Russian Railways will resume international direct trains between Pyongyang and Moscow from June 17, the company announced on its Telegram channel on Tuesday.

    It is noted that the service with Moscow is scheduled to run twice a month: from Pyongyang on the 3rd and 17th of each month, arriving in the Russian capital on the 11th and 25th, respectively, and from Moscow on the 12th and 26th of each month, arriving in the capital of the DPRK on the 20th and 4th, respectively.

    Pyongyang-Moscow is the longest direct train route in the world. The distance between the capitals of the states is more than 10 thousand km, and the travel time is 8 days.

    Stops are planned at the stations of Khasan, Ussuriysk, Khabarovsk, Chita, Irkutsk, Krasnoyarsk, Novosibirsk, Omsk, Yekaterinburg, Kirov, Kostroma, etc.

    According to the report, from June 19, the railway route between Pyongyang and Khabarovsk will also resume service.

    Passenger rail service between Russia and the DPRK was suspended due to COVID-19 in February 2020. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Mexican President Calls for Human Dignity Amid US Protests

    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

    MEXICO CITY, June 9 (Xinhua) — Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum on Monday called on the U.S. authorities to respect immigration procedures and human dignity, following recent mass detentions of migrants and subsequent protests in Los Angeles, California.

    K. Sheinbaum read a statement about the Los Angeles protests at a daily morning press conference also attended by the country’s Foreign Minister Juan Ramon de la Fuente.

    The statement outlined five measures the Mexican government is taking to protect the rights of Mexican migrants in the United States.

    “The Mexican government will not tolerate actions that violate human rights,” the president said, asking the US authorities “respectfully but firmly” to act in accordance with legal procedure and within the framework of respect for human dignity.

    “We do not condone violent actions as a form of protest… we call on the Mexican community to act peacefully and not to succumb to provocations,” added K. Sheinbaum.

    She stressed that most Mexicans in Los Angeles live and work there legally, and the U.S. economy “needs them.”

    “The Mexican government reaffirms its unwavering commitment to protecting the human rights of Mexicans abroad, regardless of their immigration status,” the president said.

    Through its consular network, the Mexican government offers legal advice and other assistance to ensure that Mexicans are treated fairly.

    Some 42 Mexicans, including 37 men and five women, were arrested during the Los Angeles protests, the foreign minister said.

    More than 1,000 protesters clashed with National Guard troops in downtown Los Angeles on Sunday during new demonstrations against immigration enforcement raids that took place across California over the weekend. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: New Xinjiang-Chongqing Power Transmission Project Begins

    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 10 (Xinhua) — State Grid Corporation of China on Tuesday announced the start of a ±800 kV ultra-high-voltage direct current (UHVDC) transmission project linking Hami City in eastern northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region with Chongqing City in southwest China.

    This is China’s third major project to transmit electricity from the energy-rich Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region to other parts of the country.

    The transmission line is 2,260 km long and has an installed capacity of 14.2 million kW, including 10.2 million kW supplied by wind, solar and solar thermal energy. New energy sources account for more than 70 percent of the total installed capacity.

    Xinjiang is a key hub in China’s west-east power transmission program. The new line is expected to supply more than 36 billion kWh of electricity annually to the power supply hub of Chongqing, greatly increasing the municipality’s power supply capacity.

    It is also expected to contribute to the economic development of both Xinjiang and Chongqing, strengthen the coordinated development of regions, promote rural revitalization and help improve people’s livelihoods, the corporation said.

    Currently, China National Grid Corporation operates the world’s largest ultra-high-voltage power transmission network, providing strong support for ensuring reliable electricity supply and promoting green and low-carbon development. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • Yogi Adityanath highlights govt’s achievements as PM Modi completes 11 years in office

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Tuesday inaugurated an exhibition at the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) office in Lucknow to mark Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s completion of 11 years in office. Deputy Chief Ministers Keshav Prasad Maurya and Brajesh Pathak were also present at the event.

    Highlighting the Modi government’s achievements over the past 11 years, Yogi described this period as a golden era of good governance and welfare for the poor—an era that laid the foundation for a developed and self-reliant India. He emphasized that under PM Modi’s leadership, India has not only accelerated its growth but also emerged as a symbol of global trust, gaining a strong international identity.

    Criticizing the Congress for decades of misgovernance, the Uttar Pradesh CM said, “Due to Congress-led governments and other unstable administrations in the 65 years following independence, the common citizen’s trust was broken, and India’s global image was tarnished. But over the past 11 years, under PM Modi’s leadership, a corruption-free, appeasement-free, unified India has been realised.”

    Yogi stressed that during this period, India has forged a new identity in social welfare, governance, the economy, and security. “Government transparency and accountability towards the public have become distinguishing hallmarks. A new harmony between development and heritage has been created,” the UP CM said.

    Emphasising PM Modi’s idea of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Yogi said the mantra has become the face of the government. “Now, benefits are delivered not based on who someone is, but impartially — and Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas (together with all, development for all) has become the new face of governance,” he said.

    Yogi pointed out the steps taken by the NDA government against terrorism, highlighting recent actions during Operation Sindoor.

    “Now, we have changed our approach to terrorism compared to before 2014 — India favours peace. PM Modi, by setting a new normal, has changed the entire concept — we will live in peace with friends, but if someone imposes war on us, induces terrorism in our country, and threatens our security, the response will be surgical strikes, air strikes, and Operation Sindoor. We have demonstrated this with ‘Made in India’ capability, and the world has recently realised India’s strength,” he said.

    Yogi also mentioned the abrogation of Article 370: “Article 370, which had been in place since 1952, was repealed by our government. India’s integrity was reinforced — from Kashmir to Kanyakumari.”

    Highlighting achievements in the agriculture sector, he said the double-engine government has benefited farmers and the agri-industry.

    “Before 2017, sugar mills in Uttar Pradesh were shutting down. Between 1996 and 2017, there were payments due for 22 years, but in just the last seven years, an additional ₹71,000 crore has been paid. This is the guarantee of a double-engine government,” Yogi said.

    The UP Chief Minister also underlined government schemes aimed at empowering women, such as the Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao campaign, 33 per cent reservation for women in legislatures, the abolition of triple talaq, granting freedom to women, and the Lakhpati Didi scheme for women entrepreneurs.

    ANI

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Statement on Disorder in Ballymena

    Source: Traditional Unionist Voice – Northern Ireland

    Statement by TUV leader and North Antrim MP Jim Allister:

    “The scenes of disorder in Ballymena are deeply concerning. Violence on our streets is not only wrong—it undermines the legitimate anger felt over the horrific sexual assault of a young girl and the growing local concern about unchecked immigration into the town.

    “The reported racial dimension of Saturday night’s attack has acted as a catalyst for public outrage, drawing attention to long-standing frustrations. The large turnout this evening demonstrates the strength of feeling in the local community—feelings which were, in the main, expressed peacefully. Sadly, the actions of a small number have cast a shadow over what was, for most, a lawful protest. Evidence suggests that individuals from outside the area came with the express purpose of causing disruption.

    “The influx of Roma, in particular, into Ballymena in recent years—often arriving freely from the Republic under EU movement rules, while the UK’s internal border remains neglected—has driven rapid demographic change. The failure of successive authorities to manage integration or address local concerns has left many residents feeling ignored and disrespected.

    “Nevertheless, violence serves no cause. It does not help the young girl or her family, and it distracts from the very real grievances being voiced. It must stop — and be condemned by all.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Statement by African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) on recent Fitch Ratings Report

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    Source: Afreximbank |

    Statement by African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) on recent Fitch Ratings Report

    Fitch also acknowledges the Bank’s strong capitalization including its “strong equity to assets and guarantees ratio” and “excellent internal capital generation”

    The bank operates with a high level of collateral and credit risk mitigants and has already taken relatively large provisions on some sovereign exposures

    CAIRO, Egypt, June 10, 2025/APO Group/ —

    • Afreximbank (www.Afreximbank.com) operates under very high standards of financial transparency. The Bank’s financial reporting strictly adheres to International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), including IFRS 9. This standard governs the classification and staging of loan performance, including the treatment of non-performing loans, amongst other matters. The Bank’s application of IFRS 9 is comprehensively detailed in its 2024 Financial Statements and further clarified in the external auditors’ report. As cited in the ratings report, dated 4 June 2025, “Fitch’s definition of NPLs differs from the Bank’s approach, which makes use of forward-looking information”.
    • It is important to note that Fitch acknowledges Afreximbank’s financial resilience, highlighting that “the bank operates with a high level of collateral and credit risk mitigants and has already taken relatively large provisions on some sovereign exposures, which would reduce any potential further negative financial impact for the bank”.
    • Fitch also acknowledges the Bank’s strong capitalization including its “strong equity to assets and guarantees ratio” and “excellent internal capital generation”.  Concentration risk is also reported as “low” and its liquidity assessment of “a” reflects the Bank’s “strong quality of treasury assets”. The Bank believes that these factors reinforce the overall soundness of the Bank’s risk management framework.
    • Fitch’s ‘negative outlook’ decision, which it says reflects “the risk that the debt owed to Afreximbank by some of its sovereign borrowers may be restructured”, is hinged on the erroneous view, in some quarters, that the treaty establishing Afreximbank, executed by its 53 participating African states, can be violated by the Bank without consequences. For clarity, the Bank establishment agreement is a treaty entered into by, and among, all participating states and between the participating states and the Bank. Accordingly, Afreximbank would like to reaffirm that it is not participating in debt restructuring negotiations related to any of its member countries. To do so would be inconsistent with the Bank establishment treaty. The treatment of its loans and other activities is governed by the treaty and not by classifications created outside its framework.
    • Afreximbank’s financial resilience, robust governance and unwavering commitment to excellence, and to Africa, are critical to the delivery of its mandate. The Bank remains committed to supporting its member countries in navigating their economic challenges while promoting trade-led growth, economic development and general macroeconomic stability.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Afreximbank.

    Statement by African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) on recent Fitch Ratings Report Fitch also acknowledges the Bank’s strong capitalization including its “strong equity to assets and guarantees ratio” and “excellent internal capital generation” CAIRO, Egypt, June 10, 2025/APO Group/ —

    • Afreximbank (www.Afreximbank.com) operates under very high standards of financial transparency. The Bank’s financial reporting strictly adheres to International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), including IFRS 9. This standard governs the classification and staging of loan performance, including the treatment of non-performing loans, amongst other matters. The Bank’s application of IFRS 9 is comprehensively detailed in its 2024 Financial Statements and further clarified in the external auditors’ report. As cited in the ratings report, dated 4 June 2025, “Fitch’s definition of NPLs differs from the Bank’s approach, which makes use of forward-looking information”.
    • It is important to note that Fitch acknowledges Afreximbank’s financial resilience, highlighting that “the bank operates with a high level of collateral and credit risk mitigants and has already taken relatively large provisions on some sovereign exposures, which would reduce any potential further negative financial impact for the bank”.
    • Fitch also acknowledges the Bank’s strong capitalization including its “strong equity to assets and guarantees ratio” and “excellent internal capital generation”.  Concentration risk is also reported as “low” and its liquidity assessment of “a” reflects the Bank’s “strong quality of treasury assets”. The Bank believes that these factors reinforce the overall soundness of the Bank’s risk management framework.
    • Fitch’s ‘negative outlook’ decision, which it says reflects “the risk that the debt owed to Afreximbank by some of its sovereign borrowers may be restructured”, is hinged on the erroneous view, in some quarters, that the treaty establishing Afreximbank, executed by its 53 participating African states, can be violated by the Bank without consequences. For clarity, the Bank establishment agreement is a treaty entered into by, and among, all participating states and between the participating states and the Bank. Accordingly, Afreximbank would like to reaffirm that it is not participating in debt restructuring negotiations related to any of its member countries. To do so would be inconsistent with the Bank establishment treaty. The treatment of its loans and other activities is governed by the treaty and not by classifications created outside its framework.
    • Afreximbank’s financial resilience, robust governance and unwavering commitment to excellence, and to Africa, are critical to the delivery of its mandate. The Bank remains committed to supporting its member countries in navigating their economic challenges while promoting trade-led growth, economic development and general macroeconomic stability.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Afreximbank. Media Contact: Vincent Musumba Communications and Events Manager (Media Relations) Email: press@afreximbank.com Website: www.Afreximbank.com

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    MIL OSI Africa –