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Category: DJF

  • MIL-OSI USA: Díaz-Balart Leads FL Delegation on Homestead Air Reserve Base F-35A Letter to Trump Administration

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (25th District of FLORIDA)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart (FL-26), Vice Chair of the House Appropriations Committee, led a 17-member coalition from the Florida Congressional Delegation in a letter to President Trump and his administration requesting sustained F-35A production and fielding to modernize the aging F-16C fleet at Homestead Air Reserve Base.

    “As Dean of the Florida Delegation, I am acutely aware of the security threats our nation faces from drug trafficking, transnational criminal organizations, and the increasing malign influence and presence of anti-American adversaries like Russia and China in the Southern Hemisphere. Florida is foundational in protecting our national security, countering the southern border threats and defending our Eastern coastline.

    “For these reasons, having the modern, multi-role F-35A fighter aircraft at HomesteadAir Reserve Base, which has served as a foundational line of defense for over 80 years, is a vital asset and will ensure the United States’ readiness in confronting these threats to our national security,” said Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart.

    “As America faces growing threats from our adversaries like Communist China and Putin’s Russia, the need to modernize our air defenses has never been more urgent,” said Congressman Carlos Gimenez. “The F-35 is the most advanced fighter jet in the world, and its production is critical to maintaining our military dominance. Located in Florida’s 28th District, Homestead Air Reserve Base must receive the investments and upgrades needed to support the next generation of tactical air power. South Florida plays a strategic role in our national defense, and Homestead must be ready to host and sustain the F-35 mission for decades to come.” 

    Read the full text of the letter here or below.

    “We would first like to thank you for your efforts to keep our nation safe, make our military the most lethal military force in the world and return peace through strength around the world. As Commander in Chief, you understand the critical role Florida plays in delivering on that mission and protecting our national security. From deterring and preventing the approximately $2.7 trillion impact to American lives through fentanyl counternarcotics efforts to supporting Southern border operations and homeland defense alert missions along our coastlines, Homestead Air Force Reserve Base (HARB) is critical for our national security. Florida’s strategic location makes it uniquely postured to counter Chinese, Russian, Violent Extremist Organizations (VEOs), and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs) and their influence in the southern hemisphere. These regional threats are the largest contributor to the state of national emergency within the United States over illegal aliens, infiltration of Tren de Aragua and MS-13 gangs, and illicit opioids.

    “Under your leadership as both our 45th and 47th president, Florida continues to fight the cartels and drug traffickers, leading to South Florida being named the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area of the Year. We dismantled or disrupted 54 drug trafficking organizations in 2023 and seized an estimate value of $748 million in illicit drugs, including 23 metric tons of cocaine, 248 kilograms of methamphetamine, and 224 kilograms of fentanyl.

    “Through U.S. Southern Command, appropriately headquartered in Florida, we are tracking and thwarting Chinese efforts to expand their Belt and Road Initiative in Latin American Countries to monopolize natural resources, such as 20% of the world’s oil reserves, 25% of the strategic metals, and 31% of the fishing areas. We are working to claw back the $358 billion amassed by 35 TCOs in the region in 2023 through interdiction and counter trafficking efforts to help stabilize South America, preventing their problems from reaching our shores. The Russian Surface Action Group, led by the frigate Admiral Gorshkov and cruise missile submarine Kazan docked in Havana, Cuba, passed within 30 miles of the Florida Keys last June. Florida is uniquely postured to support the border alert mission to deter these acts of aggression.

    “Within Florida, HARB serves a foundational role in supporting the most critical national defense missions. HARB generated $364 million for the local economy in 2023 alone. It is the home to the 2,500-member 482nd Fighter Wing and its reserve associate, the 367th Fighter Squadron, responsible for F-16 alerts across the coastline in support of Operation Noble Eagle. It houses the Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Branch, operating Blackhawks and turbo-prop airliners like the DHC-8 to interdict smugglers and prevent illegal aliens from crossing into the United States. Special Operations Command South Headquarters is also resident at HARB, executing special operations as assigned to U.S. Southern Command, spanning 31 countries and 10 overseas territories across Central and South America and the Caribbean.

    “Florida’s Gulf of America, Atlantic Ocean access, and its proximity to Central and South America is what drove the 125th Fighter Wing Air National Guard (ANG) unit selection for the F-35A Lightning II. Starting with an initial batch of aircraft to Jacksonville ANG in March of this year and expanding to the 125th Fighter Wing Detachment 1 at HARB in 2027. The Air Force Reserve also planned this F-35A modernization to replace the aging F-16C fleet within the 482nd Fighter Wing. This would create a common fighter platform between the Reserves and National Guard at HARB, reducing costs for base operations through shared maintenance efforts. Together, these units would provide a considerable increase in readiness for the North American Aerospace Defense Command Alert mission across both the Southern and Eastern U.S. border as well as downrange multi-role operations through short-notice worldwide deployments.

    “Together, we ask your administration to ensure that the F-35A goes to Homestead Air Reserve Base and the F-35A production quantities remain undeterred. There is no real trade when comparing other airframes and locales to a multi-role fighter aircraft capable of countering Russian, Chinese, VEOs, and TCOs operations across the entirety of the Southern and Eastern U.S. border and throughout the Southern Hemisphere. HARB is a vital asset for our national security and power projection, and critical for your Peace through Strength agenda. Thank you again for your leadership and we hope you will consider, within all applicable rules and regulations, our input on the matter.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Díaz-Balart Honors the Service and Sacrifice of the Fallen Servicemembers by Reintroducing the ’13 Folds of Honor Act’ Paying Tribute to the 13 Fallen Servicemembers

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (25th District of FLORIDA)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – In remembrance of Memorial Day last week and in solemn tribute to the 13 brave U.S. servicemembers who lost their lives during the horrific terrorist attack at Abbey Gate outside of Kabul’s Hamid Karzai International Airport, U.S. Representative Mario Díaz-Balart (FL-26) has reintroduced the 13 Folds of Honor Act,which providesa new script to be read during burial flag-folding ceremonies.

    “The traditional 13 folds symbolize our nation’s unity and deep respect for those who served. This legislation enhances the ceremonial flag-folding presentation that honors the service and sacrifice of veterans and deceased servicemembers. The new script acknowledges not only the significance of the ceremony but also pays tribute to the 13 servicemembers who gave their lives during the 2021 withdrawal from Afghanistan,” said Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart. “While no words can ease the pain of the families who lost their loved ones, the 13 Folds of Honor script symbolizes our profound gratitude and unwavering respect for their service. My deepest appreciation goes to Former Commander Dr. J.B. Holmes of the Golden Gate VFW Post 7721 for his tireless commitment to our veterans and for championing this meaningful tribute, as well as to the Korean War Veterans Association and the Del Webb Veterans Club of Naples for their endorsements.”

    Bill text is available here.

    The original cosponsors include:

    Mario Díaz-Balart (R-FL-26), Jimmy Panetta (D-CA-19), John Rutherford (R-FL-5), Tim Burchett (R-TN-2), Gregory W. Steube (R-FL-17), Harriet Hageman (R-WY-At Large), Mark Amodei (R-NV-2), Richard McCormick (R-GA-7), Tony Gonzales (R-TX-23), Dan Crenshaw (R-TX-2), David G. Valadao (R-CA-22), Gregory F. Murphy (R-NC-3), Robert F. Onder (R-MO-3), Carlos A. Giménez (R-FL-28), and Jim Baird (D-CA-19).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Díaz-Balart’s Statement on Rescissions Package

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (25th District of FLORIDA)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – House Appropriations Committee Vice Chair and Chairman of the National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Subcommittee Mario Díaz-Balart (FL-26) issued the following statement regarding the Office of Management and Budget’s rescissions package:

    “Since becoming Chairman of the National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Subcommittee of the House Committee on Appropriations, I have advocated for common-sense priorities that align with American values. I’m proud of my proven track record of advancing U.S. national security interests while eliminating the wasteful out-of-control spending that characterized the previous Administration.

    “My National Security and Department of State funding bill for fiscal year (FY) 2024, which is now law, achieved a six percent cut, the largest year-to-year funding cut of all appropriations bills compared to FY 2023, and the largest in recent memory. The FY 2025 version of the same bill, which passed the House, cut funding a further 11% below FY 2024 levels.

    “I am also proud of my well-documented FY 2024 and FY 2025 budget hearings with Biden Administration officials, where I consistently raised concerns about U.S. taxpayers footing the bill for controversial programs that failed to advance U.S. national security interests or reflect our values. These missteps have brought us to where we are today.

    “While not perfect, the $9.4 billion rescissions package reflects President Trump’s vision of restoring conservative and responsible fiscal policies.

    “I look forward to working with President Trump and his Administration to fund priorities that make sense for the American people, advance our national security interests, and support long-standing congressional directives that bolster security, stability, and prosperity at home and abroad.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Government reminds Hong Kong residents to attend to personal safety when travelling to United States

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         In view of the rcently ongoing protests and riots across the United States, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government reminds Hong Kong residents who are already there or intend to visit the United States to attend to personal safety.

    A Government spokesman said, “The Government reminds residents who intend to visit the United Stated or are already there to monitor the local situation, exercise caution, attend to personal safety, avoid large gatherings of people, and pay attention to local announcements on the latest situation.”

    In view of the latest developments, the Security Bureau has already updated the Outbound Travel Alerts (OTA) webpage regarding supplementary information for the United States and will continue to closely monitor the situation there. Any updates will be issued through the media, the bureau’s mobile app, and the OTA webpage (www.sb.gov.hk/eng/ota).
        
         Hong Kong residents in the United States who need assistance may call the 24-hour hotline of the Assistance to Hong Kong Residents Unit of the Immigration Department (ImmD) at (852) 1868, call the 1868 hotline using network data or use the 1868 Chatbot via the Immigration Department Mobile Application, send a message to the 1868 WhatsApp assistance hotline or 1868 WeChat assistance hotline, or submit the Online Assistance Request Form, or contact the Chinese Embassy/Consulate-General in the United States of America at the consular protection hotline: (Embassy – (1) 2024952216, Consulate-General in New York – (1) 2126953125, Consulate-General in San Francisco – (1) 4159296998, Consulate-General in Los Angeles – (1) 2138078052, Consulate-General in Chicago – (1) 3123973015).
    ​
    Hong Kong residents are encouraged to use the online Registration of Outbound Travel Information service (www.gov.hk/roti) of the ImmD to register their contact details and itinerary when outside Hong Kong. The information provided allows the ImmD to disseminate practical information to them through appropriate means, including SMS on mobile phones, on a timely basis when necessary.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: YVO’s plan for responding to future geological hazards in Yellowstone National Park

    Source: US Geological Survey

    Yellowstone Caldera Chronicles is a weekly column written by scientists and collaborators of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory. This week’s contribution is from Michael Poland, geophysicist with the U.S. Geological Survey and Scientist-in-Charge of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory.

    Cover of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory response plan for geological hazards in the Yellowstone region.  The report can be accessed at https://pubs.usgs.gov/circ/1351/.  Cover features a photograph by Mike Poland and frame captures from a video by Juliet Su.

    As Benjamin Franklin supposedly said, “failing to plan is planning to fail.”  This is why the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory (YVO) has a plan to guide the observatory’s actions during a response to earthquakes, hydrothermal explosions, or any geological activity that could lead to a volcanic eruption.

    The first YVO response plan was published in 2010 and explained how observatory scientists would collect data, communicate with one another and the public, and interact with emergency managers as part of any incident command system that was organized to deal with a crisis—for example, a major earthquake or volcanic eruption.

    A second version of the YVO response plan was published in 2014 and incorporated changes in the YVO consortium, which expanded in 2013 to include more institutions, as well as lessons learned from a readiness, or “table-top,” exercise that was held in 2011.  Table-top exercises are discussions that simulate a crisis and that are used by emergency responders to practice and evaluate procedures.

    The newest version of the YVO response plan was just published (https://pubs.usgs.gov/circ/1351/).  This update contains several significant modifications compared to the previous versions.

    First and foremost, the YVO response plan now aligns with a procedures established by the USGS Volcano Science Center—particularly the “OVERT,” or Observatory Volcano Event Response Team, concept. OVERT defines critical functions, like data management, communications, monitoring, science, and logistical support, that can be staffed up during a crisis.  The OVERT team can be implemented in stages to follow the nature of whatever volcanic unrest or eruption may be unfolding and is intended to be flexible and modular.  The concept also establishes clear lines of communication and reporting so that no one person has too many responsibilities, and information is shared quickly and openly.

    As an example, if a major seismic swarm were to begin in Yellowstone National Park, YVO might establish an OVERT organizational structure that has staffing for the monitoring and communications teams.  If that seismicity intensified and led to hydrothermal explosions, those teams would be expanded to take on additional responsibilities, and other branches would also be staffed—like those dealing with data documentation and logistics to support field operations. 

    Organization chart giving the structure of a response by the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory to a significant episode of unrest or eruption at the Yellowstone volcanic system. The strategy is scalable (elements are activated as they are needed and deactivated when they are no longer needed) and can be adapted to meet the needs of the event response. Chart follows the Observatory Volcanic Event Response Team structure in the U.S. Geological Survey Volcano Science Center Response Plan for Significant Volcanic Events (Moran and others, 2024—https://pubs.usgs.gov/publication/cir1518). EOC=Emergency Operations Center; UAS=Unoccupied Aircraft Systems; YVO=Yellowstone Volcano Observatory; YVOCOMS=YVO communications group.

    YVO’s updated response plan also defines two different cases: “events” and “activity with potential.” An “event” is a single and sudden hazardous occurrence, like the 1959 M7.3 Hebgen Lake earthquake or the July 23, 2024, hydrothermal explosion at Biscuit Basin, that would prompt YVO to immediately initiate additional monitoring and to communicate hazards information to emergency managers and the public.  Because some geologic hazards evolve slowly, however, YVO’s response plan also defines “activity with potential” that could eventually build towards a hazard that requires intense monitoring.  The 2003 thermal event at Norris Geyser Basin, when ground heated to boiling temperatures in places and caused some boardwalks to be closed and eventually rerouted, is a good example.

    Also included in the response plan are communications protocols and call-down lists that establish robust methods for ensuring that information is passed along to emergency managers at various institutions, like the area land managers and, in the event of an explosive volcanic eruption, the Federal Aviation Administration and National Weather Service.  Additional guidelines describe how YVO consortium members would collaborate to ensure that the public—especially local residents—are informed of hazards that may develop, and steps that can be taken to lessen the impacts of those hazards.

    By developing this response plan, and also putting it into practice—for instance, as part of a table-top exercise that was held for YVO consortium members in 2022—YVO scientists will be better prepared to deal with any future geologic hazards in the Yellowstone region.  Hopefully there will never need to be put the YVO response protocols into practice in response to a serious geologic hazard.  But we must not fail to plan.

    Scientists and collaborators of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory meet in Mammoth Hot Springs in May 2022 to discuss the protocols for responding to a geological event in Yellowstone National Park.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • Digital transformation in 11 years of Modi govt: Over 42 lakh route km optical fibre cable laid

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India has undergone a remarkable digital transformation over the past eleven years under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, marked by unprecedented growth in broadband and mobile connectivity across the country.

    A key pillar of this revolution is the BharatNet project, one of the world’s largest rural telecom initiatives, aimed at connecting all Gram Panchayats with high-speed internet. So far, more than 42 lakh km of Optical Fibre Cable (OFC) has been laid — almost 11 times the distance between Earth and the Moon—ensuring digital access in even the remotest parts of India.

    The government’s commitment to bridging the digital divide is evident in Phase 3 of the BharatNet project, which focuses on 5G integration, enhanced bandwidth capacity, and last-mile connectivity through the Amended BharatNet Program (ABP), approved in August 2023.

    The impact of the BharatNet project has been transformative. Rural India is now more digitally included, with improved access to e-education, telemedicine, e-governance, and digital financial services. BharatNet is also empowering local governance and enabling rural entrepreneurship.

    Complementing this initiative, mobile connectivity has also expanded significantly. As of December 2024, over 6.25 lakh villages have mobile coverage, including nearly 6.19 lakh with 4G services. Median mobile broadband speeds have also seen a sharp rise, further fueling digital inclusion.

    Together, BharatNet and expanded mobile infrastructure are ushering in a new era of inclusive digital growth, bridging the urban-rural divide and accelerating India’s journey toward a connected future.

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Vacancy: Personal Assistant to the Chief Inspector

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Vacancy: Personal Assistant to the Chief Inspector

    The Air Accidents Investigation Branch is recruiting for a Personal Assistant (EO) to the Chief Inspector

    Are you a dedicated professional with the ability to balance big-picture thinking and meticulous attention to detail? Do you have excellent time management skills with the ability to prioritise and react to changing demands? Are you ready to develop your career in an interesting and varied role? If so, then this is the perfect role for you!

    The Personal Assistant to the Chief Inspector of Air Accidents (PA CIAA) plays a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of the Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB). Reporting directly to the Chief Inspector, the post-holder will provide high-level executive support to the Chief Inspector, Deputy Chief Inspector, and the wider AAIB management team. 

    This is a highly visible role with a strong external-facing element, involving regular interaction with senior stakeholders. 

    The successful candidate will be entrusted with handling sensitive and confidential information, and must demonstrate sound judgement, discretion, and professionalism at all times.

    Full job description and role profile (reference number: 406600): Personal Assistant to the Chief Inspector – Civil Service Jobs – GOV.UK

    Make sure to apply before 11:55 pm on Sunday 22nd June 2025 to not miss out on this rare opportunity.

    Read more about our work here.

    Updates to this page

    Published 9 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Materials for the Government meeting on June 9, 2025

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The following issues are planned to be considered at the meeting:

    1. On the draft federal law “On Amendments to Certain Legislative Acts of the Russian Federation” (in terms of amending the legislation concerning the payment of temporary disability benefits during the period of suspension of the service contract of a state civil servant)

    The bill was prepared for the purpose of providing financial support (providing for the payment of temporary disability benefits during the period of suspension of the employment contract) to persons who, due to health reasons, have not renewed the employment contract (service contract of a state civil servant) within three months after the end of their military service due to mobilization or military service under contract.

     

    2. On the draft federal law “On Amendments to Articles 81 and 3517 of the Labor Code of the Russian Federation”

    The bill was prepared with the aim of protecting the labor rights of workers who are called up for military service by mobilization or who have entered military service under contract.

     

    3. On the recognition of certain provisions of certain acts of the Government of the Russian Federation as invalid (in terms of amending the Regulation on the Federal Service for Labor and Employment)

    The draft act is aimed at bringing the provision into line with the Federal Law “On State Control (Supervision) and Municipal Control in the Russian Federation”.

     

    4. On the draft federal laws “On Amendments to the Criminal Executive Code of the Russian Federation” and “On Amendments to Article 397 of the Criminal Procedure Code of the Russian Federation”

    The bills are aimed at improving legislation in terms of issues related to the execution of criminal punishment in the form of forced labor.

     

    5. On the draft federal law “On Amendments to the Code of Administrative Procedure of the Russian Federation” (in terms of unifying the procedure for paying for an examination appointed at the initiative of the parties, within the framework of administrative proceedings of the Russian Federation)

    The bill is aimed at unifying the procedure for paying for an expert examination appointed at the initiative of the parties within the framework of administrative proceedings, similar to civil proceedings.

     

    6. On the allocation of budgetary allocations reserved in the federal budget to Rosavtodor in 2025 for the provision of other interbudgetary transfers to the budgets of the constituent entities of the Russian Federation

    The draft order is aimed at implementing measures to restore regional or inter-municipal and local roads during the elimination of the consequences of emergency situations.

     

    7. On the allocation of budgetary appropriations to Rosavtodor in 2025 from the reserve fund of the Government of the Russian Federation

    The draft order is aimed at providing financial support for measures to bring regional or inter-municipal, local roads into compliance with the norm, including the street and road network in the territories of the Donetsk People’s Republic, the Lugansk People’s Republic, the Zaporizhia region and the Kherson region.

     

    8. On the allocation of budgetary appropriations to Rosmorrechflot in 2025 from the reserve fund of the Government of the Russian Federation for the provision of a subsidy from the federal budget to the federal state budgetary institution “Marine Rescue Service” for the implementation of measures to eliminate the consequences of an emergency caused by an oil spill as a result of the wreck of tankers in the Kerch Strait on December 15, 2024, carried out in the internal sea waters, territorial sea and exclusive economic zone of the Russian Federation

    The draft order is aimed at providing financial support for a set of measures to eliminate the consequences of the emergency caused by the sinking of tankers in the Kerch Strait on December 15, 2024, which are carried out in the internal sea waters, territorial sea and contiguous zone of the Russian Federation.

     

    9. On the draft federal law “On Amending Article 57 of the Federal Law “On Military Duty and Military Service””

    The bill provides for the possibility of assigning military ranks without undergoing military training (certification) to a citizen in the reserve, performing (performed) duties under a contract for voluntary assistance in the performance of tasks assigned to the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation or the troops of the National Guard of the Russian Federation.

     

    10. On Amendments to the Resolution of the Government of the Russian Federation of June 30, 2004 No. 323 (in terms of amending the Regulation on the Federal Service for Surveillance in Healthcare)

    The draft resolution establishes the powers of Roszdravnadzor to provide opinions on the compliance of organizations carrying out educational activities under professional educational programs of medical education, pharmaceutical education, with the requirements for personnel and material and technical support of educational activities in terms of practical training of students, as provided for by federal state educational standards, standard additional professional programs in the field of health protection and the implementation of pharmaceutical activities in the relevant medical and pharmaceutical specialties.

     

    11. On amending the Resolution of the Government of the Russian Federation of June 30, 2004 No. 331 (in terms of amending the Regulation on the Federal Antimonopoly Service)

    The draft resolution provides for the granting of authority to the FAS Russia to establish (approve) prices (tariffs) for electrical energy (capacity) supplied to customers in certain territories that were previously classified as non-price zones of the wholesale market.

     

    12. On the allocation of budgetary appropriations from the reserve fund of the Government of the Russian Federation to the Ministry of Culture of Russia in 2025 for the provision of a subsidy to the Charitable Foundation for the Support of the Humanities “My History”

    The draft order provides for the allocation of funds for financial support of expenses for the maintenance and operation of the museum and temple complex “New Chersonesos” in 2024, namely, for the payment of costs associated with the maintenance and operation of the museum and temple complex “New Chersonesos”.

     

    Moscow, June 8, 2025

     

    The content of the press releases of the Department of Press Service and References is a presentation of materials submitted by federal executive bodies for discussion at a meeting of the Government of the Russian Federation.

    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: Government meeting (2025, No. 19)

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    1. On the draft federal law “On Amendments to Certain Legislative Acts of the Russian Federation” (in terms of amending the legislation concerning the payment of temporary disability benefits during the period of suspension of the service contract of a state civil servant)

    The bill was prepared for the purpose of providing financial support (providing for the payment of temporary disability benefits during the period of suspension of the employment contract) to persons who, due to health reasons, have not renewed the employment contract (service contract of a state civil servant) within three months after the end of their military service due to mobilization or military service under contract.

    2. On the draft federal law “On Amendments to Articles 81 and 3517 of the Labor Code of the Russian Federation”

    The bill was prepared with the aim of protecting the labor rights of workers who are called up for military service by mobilization or who have entered military service under contract.

     

    3. On the recognition of certain provisions of certain acts of the Government of the Russian Federation as invalid (in terms of amending the Regulation on the Federal Service for Labor and Employment)

    The draft act is aimed at bringing the provision into line with the Federal Law “On State Control (Supervision) and Municipal Control in the Russian Federation”.

     

    4. On the draft federal laws “On Amendments to the Criminal Executive Code of the Russian Federation” and “On Amendments to Article 397 of the Criminal Procedure Code of the Russian Federation”

    The bills are aimed at improving legislation in terms of issues related to the execution of criminal punishment in the form of forced labor.

     

    5. On the draft federal law “On Amendments to the Code of Administrative Procedure of the Russian Federation” (in terms of unifying the procedure for paying for an examination appointed at the initiative of the parties, within the framework of administrative proceedings of the Russian Federation)

    The bill is aimed at unifying the procedure for paying for an expert examination appointed at the initiative of the parties within the framework of administrative proceedings, similar to civil proceedings.

     

    6. On the allocation of budgetary allocations reserved in the federal budget to Rosavtodor in 2025 for the provision of other interbudgetary transfers to the budgets of the constituent entities of the Russian Federation

    The draft order is aimed at implementing measures to restore regional or inter-municipal and local roads during the elimination of the consequences of emergency situations.

     

    7. On the allocation of budgetary appropriations to Rosavtodor in 2025 from the reserve fund of the Government of the Russian Federation

    The draft order is aimed at providing financial support for measures to bring regional or inter-municipal, local roads into compliance with the norm, including the street and road network in the territories of the Donetsk People’s Republic, the Lugansk People’s Republic, the Zaporizhia region and the Kherson region.

     

    8. On the allocation of budgetary appropriations to Rosmorrechflot in 2025 from the reserve fund of the Government of the Russian Federation for the provision of a subsidy from the federal budget to the federal state budgetary institution “Marine Rescue Service” for the implementation of measures to eliminate the consequences of an emergency situation caused by the spill of oil products as a result of the wreck of tankers in the Kerch Strait on December 15, 2024, carried out in the internal sea waters, territorial sea and exclusive economic zone of the Russian Federation

    The draft order is aimed at providing financial support for a set of measures to eliminate the consequences of the emergency caused by the sinking of tankers in the Kerch Strait on December 15, 2024, which are carried out in the internal sea waters, territorial sea and contiguous zone of the Russian Federation.

     

    9. On the draft federal law “On Amending Article 57 of the Federal Law “On Military Duty and Military Service””

    The bill provides for the possibility of assigning military ranks without undergoing military training (certification) to a citizen in the reserve, performing (performed) duties under a contract for voluntary assistance in the performance of tasks assigned to the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation or the troops of the National Guard of the Russian Federation.

     

    10. On Amendments to the Resolution of the Government of the Russian Federation of June 30, 2004 No. 323 (in terms of amending the Regulation on the Federal Service for Surveillance in Healthcare)

    The draft resolution establishes the powers of Roszdravnadzor to provide opinions on the compliance of organizations implementing educational activities under professional educational programs of medical education, pharmaceutical education, with the requirements for personnel and material and technical support of educational activities in terms of practical training of students, as provided for by federal state educational standards, standard additional professional programs in the field of health protection and the implementation of pharmaceutical activities in the relevant medical and pharmaceutical specialties.

     

    11. On amending the Resolution of the Government of the Russian Federation of June 30, 2004 No. 331 (in terms of amending the Regulation on the Federal Antimonopoly Service)

    The draft resolution provides for the granting of authority to the FAS Russia to establish (approve) prices (tariffs) for electrical energy (capacity) supplied to customers in certain territories that were previously classified as non-price zones of the wholesale market.

     

    12. On the allocation by the Ministry of Culture of Russia in 2025 from the reserve fund of the Government of the Russian Federation of budgetary appropriations for the provision of a subsidy to the Charitable Foundation for the Support of Humanities “My History”

    The draft order provides for the allocation of funds for financial support of expenses for the maintenance and operation of the museum and temple complex “New Chersonesos” in 2024, namely, for the payment of costs associated with the maintenance and operation of the museum and temple complex “New Chersonesos”.

     

    Moscow, June 8, 2025

     

    The content of the press releases of the Department of Press Service and References is a presentation of materials submitted by federal executive bodies for discussion at a meeting of the Government of the Russian Federation.

    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 government will allocate more than 2.8 billion rubles to implement the activities of the federal project “New Rhythm of Construction”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Document

    Order of May 29, 2025 No. 1380-r

    Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin signed an order to direct budget funds to finance activities of the federal project “New Rhythm of Construction” of the national project “Infrastructure for Life”.

    In total, more than 2.8 billion rubles are planned to be allocated for the implementation of federal project activities in 2025–2027.

    The federal project “New Rhythm of Construction” became the successor of the socio-economic development initiative of the same name and is aimed at achieving the national goal indicator “Comfortable and Safe Living Environment” to increase resource efficiency in industrial and infrastructure construction.

    As part of the implementation of the federal project, work will continue to reduce the investment and construction cycle and optimize a number of procedures related to the construction of facilities. Its result will be a simplification of obtaining the documents necessary for construction, acceleration of the transfer of constructed facilities to users, updating of regulatory and technical documents for the use of new technologies in design and increasing the efficiency of capital investments.

    The project also includes activities to develop standard design documentation to reduce costs for the construction of social facilities, the development of a unified urban planning information system, Stroykompleks.RF, and the holding of career guidance forums for students and pupils.

    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: Updated regulatory requirements in the field of ecology, forest conservation and biodiversity

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Under the leadership of Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Patrushev, work was carried out to update current requirements in the field of ecology and environmental protection, land use, forest conservation and biodiversity.

    In total, several hundred regulatory legal acts are set to cease to be effective on September 1, 2025. As part of the “regulatory guillotine” – in accordance with the instructions of Russian President Vladimir Putin – they were checked for the need to cancel or update outdated and redundant requirements.

    The documents proposed for re-publication were included in the so-called white list. The Ministry of Agriculture, Rosselkhoznadzor and Rosrybolovstvo adopted 19 regulatory legal acts. They affected the areas of veterinary science, plant growing and fisheries.

    The Ministry of Natural Resources has adopted 41 documents that regulate relations in such socially significant areas as environmental protection, waste management, land reclamation and conservation, forest protection, regulation of timber turnover, protection of endangered forest plants, monitoring of water bodies, development of hydrocarbon deposits, creation and use of artificial islands, work in sea waters and on the continental shelf, prevention of death of wildlife during production processes, conservation of hunting resources.

    To replace the regulatory legal acts in force since 2000, documents have been adopted that approve the maximum permissible concentrations and conditions for the discharge of harmful substances, the discharge of which is permitted, as well as a list of harmful substances, the discharge of which into the waters of the exclusive economic zone of the Russian Federation is prohibited.

    The updated documents comply with the standards established in the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships.

    The procedure for accepting the results of work on the reclamation (conservation) of lands in federal ownership has been clarified. A special commission will deal with this.

    The Ministry of Industry and Trade has adopted two Government resolutions in the area of creating and operating a system for automatic monitoring of pollutant emissions and/or discharges of pollutants.

    “Over the past 25 years, emissions requirements have become much stricter in many industries. Taking into account the new realities, we analyzed regulatory and legal acts and recommended the most important of them for re-publication in an updated form,” Dmitry Patrushev summed up the work.

    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 –

  • Indian community in UAE celebrates Yoga at iconic landmarks ahead of International Day of Yoga 2025

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Members of the Indian diaspora in the United Arab Emirates are conducting yoga sessions at prominent landmarks across the country as part of pre-International Day of Yoga activities leading up to the global celebration. The various community groups have organized practice sessions at some of Dubai’s and Sharjah’s most recognizable locations to promote wellness, mindfulness, and unity.

    The Arab Region Yoga Instructor Council in Dubai initiated the month-long countdown to International Day of Yoga 2025 by holding sessions at one of the world’s most complex structures and Dubai’s iconic location: The Museum of the Future. The activities are part of a broader campaign to build momentum for the annual celebration. At Dubai Frame, members of the Indian People’s Forum MP Council demonstrated various yoga asanas and breathing techniques in front of the world’s largest picture frame structure. The session aimed to promote mindfulness, unity, and wellness while showcasing the connection between yoga practice and global health initiatives. In Sharjah, the Indian Community group Friends of India organized a yoga session at 1000 Palm Park, continuing the regional celebration of yoga’s benefits for physical and mental wellbeing.

    The theme for IDY 2025, “Yoga for One Earth, One Health,” aims to reinforce India’s message of holistic well-being and sustainable living. These preliminary activities represent part of the global preparation for International Day of Yoga, which is observed annually on June 21st. The UAE’s Indian community, one of the largest expatriate populations in the country, regularly participates in cultural and wellness events that highlight their heritage while promoting universal values of health and harmony.

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New steering group to champion disabled people in elected office

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    New steering group to champion disabled people in elected office

    A new steering group will support disabled candidates in elections, advising on a fund for disability-related expenses to level the playing field.

    • New Access to Elected Office Steering Group set up to support disabled candidates to enter elected office.
    • The group will use their lived experience to ensure disabled people’s views and voices are at the heart of decision making.
    • Cross-party members to work closely with the Minister for Social Security and Disability, Sir Stephen Timms MP, to boost representation of disabled people in future elections.

    Disabled people will be better supported to compete on a level playing field in gaining access to elected office through a new steering group and fund to support with the disability-related expenses that they might face. 

    The fund will help break down barriers for disabled candidates and be developed with support from a new government steering group who will advise the government on how to boost opportunity for disabled people in seeking to enter elected office.

    Drawing on their lived experience of disability, accessing funding or standing for elected office, members will work with the Minister for Social Security and Disability to ensure the fund is effective in increasing disability representation in future elections. 

    Minister for Social Security and Disability, Sir Stephen Timms MP, said:

    We want to ensure that disabled people have the right support to pursue a rewarding career in elected office.

    I look forward to working with the new steering group to develop a fund which makes sure that having a disability is not a barrier to success in political life, and that disabled people’s views and voices are at the heart of our efforts to achieve this.

    The minister will also engage with MPs with a specialist interest in supporting disabled candidates, gathering insights which will further inform the fund and efforts to maximise its uptake. 

    The steering group will take learnings from the government’s previous Access to Elected Office Fund and Enable Fund, which similarly helped cover the costs of disability-related expenses – including transport support for mobility impaired candidates and the provision of accessible formats and British Sign Language interpretation.

    It follows wider efforts to support disabled people to thrive in work – such as our consultation on mandatory disability pay gap reporting, which will inform how government tackles the gap and puts more money in disabled people’s pockets as part of the Plan for Change. 

    British Sign Language version of press release

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N3x5ABmW9_4

    Notes to editors

    The members of the steering group are:

    • Dr Sarabajaya Kumar, Centenary Action and Founder of the Disabled Women in Politics Network
    • Chloe Schendel-Wilson, Disability Policy Centre
    • Dr Mark Carew, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine and Disability Policy Centre
    • Fazilet Hadi MBE, Disability Rights UK
    • Barry Ginley, Disability consultant and former Conservative party local councillor
    • Julie Adnams Hatch, Liberal Democrat Women’s network
    • Celia Chartres-Aris, Disability campaigner
    • David Buxton OBE, Action on Disability
    • Kathryn Bole FRSA, Disability Politics Centre and Disability Labour
    • Jane Bevan, Greater Manchester Disabled People’s Panel
    • Nuala Toman, Disability Action
    • Helen Rowlands, Disability Consultant and Researcher
    • Dr Mustafa Mohammed, Ability2Win

    Updates to this page

    Published 9 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Compensation to postmasters reaches £1 billion milestone

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Compensation to postmasters reaches £1 billion milestone

    More than £1 billion has been paid out to over 7,300 postmasters affected by the Horizon IT scandal – one of the biggest miscarriages of justice of our time.

    • Today’s data reveals over £1bn has been paid out in financial redress to thousands of postmasters across the UK  
    • This includes £245m in the Horizon Convictions Redress Scheme launched last summer  
    • Redress for victims of Horizon scandal has more than quadrupled under this government – delivering on a key manifesto commitment

    More than £1 billion has been paid out to over 7,300 postmasters affected by the Horizon IT scandal – one of the biggest miscarriages of justice of our time.

    This figure is a total across the Horizon-related redress schemes, with data published by the government today (Monday 9 June).

    This milestone marks the Government’s ongoing commitment to deliver redress and justice to postmasters as swiftly as possible. Whilst Government cannot fully put right what postmasters have been through, what is being delivered is increased redress and ensuring the compensation process work better than it has done previously.

    Post Office Minister Gareth Thomas said:  

    Since entering government, it has been our priority to speed up the delivery of compensation to victims of the Horizon Scandal and today’s milestone shows how much progress has been made.  

    We are settling cases every day and getting compensation out more quickly for the most complex cases, but the job isn’t done until every postmaster has received fair and just redress.

    Since entering government, redress paid out to victims of the Horizon Scandal has more than quadrupled to £1,039 million, delivering on a key manifesto promise to ensure justice and compensation are delivered swiftly for those sub-postmasters shamefully affected by the Horizon IT scandal. 

    Ministers continue to review each scheme to ensure the process is as smooth as it can be, and welcome feedback and scrutiny from postmasters, campaigners and Parliament and recognise the tireless campaigning in this area over many years. Reforms to increase the roll out of redress has included the following steps.

    Since July 2024, the government has also launched the Horizon Convictions Redress scheme – providing redress to postmasters who had their convictions overturned by the Post Office Offences Act (and the equivalent legislation in Scotland) and also launched the Horizon Shortfall Scheme Appeals process.

    In March, Ministers made a commitment that claims for redress under the Post Office’s Overturned Convictions scheme would be transferred into the Department for Business and Trade (DBT) and the Post Office would cease to be involved in the administration of redress for overturned convictions. This is something that postmasters, campaigners and Parliamentarians have called for. As of 3 June, these cases have all been transferred and all future redress for these claimants will be managed by DBT. 

    Other milestones include:  

    • Launching the Post Office Process Review (PPR) helping to provide redress to postmasters who suffered financial losses caused by products, processes or policies that were designed or delivered incorrectly.  

    • Beginning Horizon Shortfall Scheme fixed-sum payments of £75,000 for those who don’t want to go through the full assessment process.  

    • Announcing the upcoming publication of a Green Paper which will give the public the chance to have their view on the future of Post Office.  

    • Committing to develop an effective and fair redress process for those affected by the Capture IT system.

    Updates to this page

    Published 9 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Scotland Office: First government trade mission since UK-EU deal

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Scotland Office: First government trade mission since UK-EU deal

    Minister Kirsty McNeill teams up with the Scottish Chambers of Commerce to champion Scotland and the UK in Spain

    Boosting trade and investment between Scotland and Spain is top of the agenda as a group of 16 Scottish female entrepreneurs, led by UK Government Minister Kirsty McNeill and the Scottish Chambers of Commerce (SCC), arrive on Spanish soil today (Monday 9th June). 

    The Scotland Office led trade mission will meet with Spanish entrepreneurs, business leaders and politicians to maximise the benefits of the recent UK-EU deal, tackle the Scottish gender export gap, promote Brand Scotland’s iconic goods and services and encourage Spanish investment into Scotland.

    A recent report found that trade in Scotland could increase by more than £10 billion over two years if women-led businesses exported at the same rate as those led by men.

    Women from Scotland’s world class food and drink, tech, manufacturing, energy, tourism, travel, legal services, consultancy, marketing and cosmetic sectors are on the trade mission.

    UK Government Scotland Office Kirsty McNeill said:

    I’m very proud to be teaming up with the Scottish Chambers of Commerce and fantastic Scottish women entrepreneurs on a trailblazing mission to Spain to help kickstart economic growth, create jobs and attract investment to Scotland as part of the UK Government’s Plan for Change.

    I want the UK to be a leader in promoting gender diversity in international trade and this is a unique opportunity for our women business leaders to build international connections, explore market opportunities, and connect with other female entrepreneurs in one of Scotland’s and the UK’s largest EU markets. 

    Through Brand Scotland, we are now giving our country the global platform it deserves. 

    Chief Executive of the Scottish Chambers of Commerce Dr Liz Cameron CBE said:

    This trade mission marks a bold step forward in advancing Scotland’s global trade ambitions. By connecting some of our most dynamic women entrepreneurs and leaders with key players in Barcelona, we are opening new doors of opportunity, innovation, and growth. Scotland’s businesswomen are global in their outlook, ambitious in their vision, and ready to lead the way in forging deeper connections around the world.

    The collaboration between the Scottish Chambers of Commerce and Scotland Office is a powerful partnership which will boost business growth, increase exports, and champion Scotland as a world-leading trading nation. This mission expands our market access and ensures the future of our business community is more representative, resilient, and internationally competitive.

    This visit marks the first Brand Scotland trade mission since the signing of a partnership agreement between the Scottish Chambers of Commerce and the Scotland Office on Friday (June 6th). The deal, backed by a £100,000 UK Government grant, is focused on showcasing Scottish businesses globally and attracting inward investment. 

    Spain is the UK’s seventh largest trading partner (2024) and Scotland’s 10th with total trade in goods and services (exports plus imports) being £64.6 billion, while the UK is the number one European destination for Spanish investment (€83 billion stock). Last year Scotland’s goods exports to Spain reached £0.7 billion, with food and drink leading the way at over £212 million. Most recent figures show that Spain was the number six export destination for Scotch whisky, with sales worth £196 million in 2024. Spain is also among the most valuable destinations for Scottish seafood exports, including a top 20 destination for Scottish salmon exports.

    The trio of trade deals secured by the Prime Minister in recent weeks offers a huge opportunity for Scotland and the UK’s economy. 

    The agreement with the EU directly addresses challenges faced by Scottish exporters since 2019, especially in the food and drink sector, as it makes it significantly easier to sell Scottish goods to markets such as Spain (see stakeholder quotes annexed below).

    The two day trade mission comes after Minister McNeill hosted a gathering of female business leaders from across Scotland in Edinburgh in May to identify and tackle export challenges they face. 

    While in Spain the Minister will also participate in cultural initiatives, including a concert for Ukraine, being organised by the British Embassy in Madrid. 

    Further information

    Trade mission, list of delegates:

    Dr Liz Cameron CBE, Director & Chief Executive, Scottish Chambers of Commerce

    Dr Jeanette Forbes OBE, CEO, PCL Group

    Dr Poonam Gupta OBE, CEO & Founder, PG Paper Company Ltd

    Arjumand Ara Sheikh, Principal Solicitor and Associate CIPD, Strand Solicitors

    Elaine Borland, Owner, Blowin’Free

    Beth Wright, Co-Founder, HCW Consulting Partners

    Becky Hain, Co-Founder, HCW Consulting Partners

    Katie Cameron, Co-Founder, HCW Consulting Partners

    Sophie Rankine, Managing Director, Sophie Gets Social Ltd

    Lucy Harper, Head of Public Affairs, Lumo

    Shona Cowan, Director, Go-You Ltd

    Rebecca Wilson, Owner, Bec Wilson Creative

    Arabella Harvey, Founder & CEO, Raven Botanicals

    Amber Knight, Director, MacNeil Shellfish Limited

    Libby McQuarrie, Commercial Executive, MacNeil Shellfish Limited

    Rosalind Wardley-Smith, International & Operations Executive Scottish Chambers of Commerce

    Agenda

    Today (Monday) the Minister will attend a women in business lunch in Madrid for senior female business leaders. This will be chaired by Sir Alex Ellis, His Majesty’s Ambassador to Spain. She will also meet with the newly appointed CEO of Navantia UK, Donald Martínez, to discuss Navantia’s progress and future plans for their two shipyards in Scotland. 

    Tomorrow (Tuesday) in Barcelona the Minister and all women trade delegation will meet Spanish women business leaders, Barcelona Chambers of Commerce, the British Chambers of Commerce and Deputy Mayor of Barcelona, Maria Eugènia Gay Rossell. The Minister will also meet the President of Catalonia, Salvador Illa to discuss new opportunities for trade and investment for both the UK and Spain.

    Stakeholder quotes

    Head of Trade Marketing – Europe at Seafood Scotland Marie-Anne Omnes said:

    The timing and geographic focus of this ministerial trade mission are highly relevant. Spain is a key market for Scottish companies and presents significant growth opportunities that initiatives like these can help identify. Spanish consumers are knowledgeable about seafood and Scottish products, with an understanding of the importance of product origin. It is essential to strengthen relationships at both government and corporate levels, especially considering that the new trade agreement could facilitate more direct trade between the two countries.

    Director of central Scotland-based MacNeil Shellfish Amber Knight said:

    The partnership between the Scottish Chambers of Commerce and the Scotland Office is a game-changer for Scottish exporters. For businesses like ours, anchored in rural communities and operating across European markets, this agreement provides the visibility, credibility, and connections needed to grow with confidence. Our expansion into Spain, with a new distribution hub in North Spain is just the beginning. With this renewed focus on promoting Scotland’s world-class products internationally, we can scale our reach, strengthen our brand, and help put Scotland’s sustainable seafood firmly on the global map.

    Updates to this page

    Published 9 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The SCO Cup 2025 tennis tournament was held in Beijing

    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 9 (Xinhua) — The 2025 SCO Cup, a friendly tennis tournament, was held in Beijing on Sunday, the news portal of the Guangming daily newspaper reported.

    The event was held at the tennis center of the General Administration of Physical Culture and Sports of the People’s Republic of China. It was attended by employees of the Secretariat of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), the Secretariat of the SCO Business Council and diplomats of the SCO countries accredited in China, as well as diplomats from the Chinese side.

    The tournament champions were the Chinese Xing Lei and Li Jiwei. Second place went to Sardorbek Sirozhov and Sarvar Abdurazakov from Uzbekistan. Two pairs from Russia, Sergey Ovsyannikov/German Kizyavka and Alexander Ermolaev/Ekaterina Ermolaeva, won third place.

    Speaking at the award ceremony, SCO Secretary General Nurlan Yermekbayev said that this sporting event was timed to coincide with the 24th anniversary of the founding of the SCO and the 80th anniversary of the UN, demonstrating the power of sport and physical education in promoting peace, diplomacy and friendship. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Chris Sun attracts talent in Germany

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Labour & Welfare Chris Sun concluded a six-day visit to Europe by arriving in Munich to start the final day of his visit to Germany, where he attended pitch event.

    On June 8, Mr Sun officiated at the prize presentation ceremony of the pitch event co-organised by Hong Kong Talent Engage (HKTE) and a local youth entrepreneurship organisation.

    In delivering his remarks, Mr Sun praised the candidates for their business proposals ingeniously integrating with Hong Kong’s strengths and targeting the Asian markets. He highlighted that technology as well as talent are key engines driving the economy and society towards high-quality development.

    As Asia’s world city, Hong Kong is proactively attracting international high-calibre talent to tie in with the development under the strategic positioning of the “eight centres”, so as to inject new impetus into its high-quality development, he added.

    Last November, HKTE visited Germany and established a partnership network with a student association from the Technische Universität München and a local youth entrepreneurship organisation.

    Thereafter, the HKTE collaborated with the organisation to launch the pitch event targeting students from eligible universities under the Top Talent Pass Scheme and young entrepreneurs, inviting talent in Germany with entrepreneurial ambitions and intentions to develop in Asia.

    Nearly 580 proposals for the pitch event were received across various fields, including artificial intelligence, deep tech, climate and sustainability. Twelve winners were selected and will be arranged to tour Hong Kong and other cities in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area in September to explore the region’s innovation and technology ecosystem, industry support and entrepreneurial opportunities.

    The HKTE delegation’s visit to Europe also encompasses Switzerland and France. In Switzerland, the delegation exchanged with representatives from three of the world’s top 100 universities, namely the Université de Genève, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne and EHL Hospitality Business School, and invited two representatives from the hospitality sector in Hong Kong to share insights on the city’s tourism development and opportunities.

    In France, the HKTE co-hosts an event with the Institut Européen d’Administration des Affaires to proactively recruit talent in the finance and commerce sectors to pursue development in Hong Kong.

    During his stay in Germany, Mr Sun also had lunch with the Junior Chamber International Germany and a group of foreign students. He learnt about their lives, introduced Hong Kong’s latest developments and invited them to consider pursuing their development in the city.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: AI Self-Learning Fabric Inspecting System

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    The AI Self-Learning Fabric Inspecting System is a groundbreaking solution designed to modernize and automate the global textile inspection process. Traditionally, fabric inspection has relied heavily on manual labor, with a speed of just 10 yards per minute and only about 70% defect detection accuracy. It also demands experienced operators with at least three years of hands-on expertise and causes significant visual fatigue. Our system transforms this outdated method by offering a fully automated, 24/7 operation capable of inspecting fabric at 120 yards per minute-12 times faster than current market standards-while achieving up to 99% detection accuracy.

    At its core, the system utilizes dual AI algorithms: one for automatic color temperature adjustment (ranging from 1000K to 11000K), and another for precise fabric tension control. These intelligent features allow it to outperform the human eye in detecting subtle defects. The system’s user-centric design enables a single operator to install fabric within five minutes (compared to at least 20 minutes in traditional setups) and to manage multiple machines simultaneously. Operator training requires only two days after AI engineers configure the system.

    The system went through 30 rounds of prototyping and AI optimization to reach its current performance. It drastically reduces human error and reliance on skilled labor, and it minimizes workplace injuries due to its ergonomic, automated process.
    In terms of business impact, the system offers clear advantages: over 50% labor cost savings per unit, more than 30% material waste reduction, and increased production efficiency. It marks defect locations with 99% accuracy and is capable of future updates that include automated defect pattern analysis, helping fabric suppliers improve quality control and manufacturing processes.

    Environmentally, it reduces resource waste and improves logistics efficiency by lowering the rate of rejected or returned shipments. Socially, it lightens labor intensity by 40%, enhancing worker health and safety. From a strategic standpoint, it helps bridge the gap between fabric suppliers and global fashion brands by responding to digital transformation needs. This positions the system as a vital component of next-generation smart manufacturing.

    By introducing automation, precision, and intelligence into fabric inspection, this system reshapes the textile industry’s production line, offering high-speed performance, scalable deployment, and sustainable benefits.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • Govt’s financial inclusion drive crosses major milestones with over 55 crore Jan Dhan accounts

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, now in his 11th year in office, India’s financial inclusion efforts have reached unprecedented heights. The government’s flagship initiative, the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY), launched in August 2014 as part of the National Mission for Financial Inclusion (NMFI), has now crossed 55.02 crore account openings as of March 7, 2025. Of these, 36.63 crore accounts have been opened in rural and semi-urban areas, extending formal banking access to vast segments of previously unbanked citizens.

    The PMJDY, based on the pillars of banking the unbanked, securing the unsecured, funding the unfunded, and serving the underserved, has significantly expanded financial access across India, especially in marginalized communities.

    Complementing this mission, several other government schemes have witnessed substantial uptake:

    The Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY), which offers accident insurance at an annual premium of just ₹20, has enrolled 50.30 crore individuals. Beneficiaries receive ₹2 lakh coverage for death or permanent disability, and ₹1 lakh for partial disability.

    The Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY), providing life insurance coverage of ₹2 lakh for a yearly premium of ₹436, has reached 23.21 crore people.

    The Atal Pension Yojana (APY), designed for workers in the unorganised sector, has garnered 7.49 crore enrolments. The scheme offers fixed pension payouts ranging from ₹1,000 to ₹5,000 per month after the subscriber turns 60, depending on their contribution.

    Meanwhile, the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY) has empowered small and micro-entrepreneurs by facilitating 52.07 crore loans amounting to ₹33.19 lakh crore since inception. The scheme provides access to institutional credit of up to ₹20 lakh for non-farm, income-generating activities.

    To further promote entrepreneurship among underrepresented groups, the Stand Up India Scheme has sanctioned 2.67 lakh loans totaling ₹60,504 crore to Scheduled Caste, Scheduled Tribe, and women entrepreneurs for setting up greenfield enterprises.

    The PM Vishwakarma Scheme, introduced in September 2023, is also gaining momentum. It supports traditional artisans and craftspeople involved in 18 specified trades by providing skill development, credit without collateral, modern equipment, and digital incentives. This scheme is jointly administered by the Ministries of MSME, Skill Development, and Financial Services.

    Additionally, urban informal workers continue to benefit from the PM Street Vendor’s Atma Nirbhar Nidhi (PMSVANidhi) scheme. Launched in June 2020 to mitigate the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, it offers working capital loans and holistic support to street vendors.

    To deepen the impact of these schemes, the government has been conducting awareness and enrolment camps at the grassroots level, ensuring wide-scale participation and benefit distribution.

  • Sanitation revolution in 11 years of Modi govt: Over 12 crore toilets built

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India’s sanitation landscape has undergone a remarkable transformation in the eleven years of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government, driven by the Swachh Bharat Mission. The mission aimed to eliminate open defecation, improve solid and liquid waste management, and uphold the dignity and health of citizens—particularly women and the rural poor.

    Under Phase-I, India achieved 100% sanitation coverage in rural areas by 2019, with over 10 crore Individual Household Latrines (IHHLs) constructed and all villages declaring themselves Open Defecation Free (ODF).

    Phase-II, launched in April 2020, focuses on sustaining ODF status and achieving ODF Plus through improved solid and liquid waste management (SLWM). As of March 17, 2025, out of 5.86 lakh villages, over 5.64 lakh villages have declared themselves ODF Plus, with 1.12 lakh Aspiring, 7,337 Rising, and 4.44 lakh Model villages. Furthermore, 5.03 lakh villages have implemented solid waste management, and 5.22 lakh villages have adopted liquid waste management.

    In total, over 12 crore IHHLs and 2.53 lakh Community Sanitary Complexes (CSCs) have been constructed under SBM(G), dramatically improving health and hygiene outcomes across India.

    The mission’s decentralized approach gives States flexibility in implementation, with Centre-State fund sharing at 60:40, and 90:10 for Northeastern and Himalayan states. For Union Territories (excluding J&K), the Centre bears 100% of the cost.

    Swachh Bharat has not only improved public health but also ensured safety, dignity, and empowerment—especially for women in rural India.

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New boardwalk to be installed on Aylestone Meadows

    Source: City of Leicester

    WORK is set to begin on a new section of boardwalk at the south-western edge of Aylestone Meadows.

    The improvements will see a new four-metre-wide boardwalk installed, replacing an outdated section that leads into the meadows from Kingsway, off Narborough Road South.

    The new boardwalk will link up Kingsway with a high-quality 3.5m wide walking and cycling track which was installed in 2023. This route leads towards Braunstone Lane East, and forms part of route six of the National Cycle Network.

    The work is being delivered by Leicester City Council in partnership with walking and cycling charity Sustrans, which looks after the National Cycle Network.

    The scheme will create a wider and safer surface for walkers and cyclists on what is a well-used route into the meadows, connecting Braunstone Town to the Great Central Way and the city centre. It is part of the wider Transforming Cities Great Central Way works, which connects New Lubbesthorpe to the city.

    The existing boardwalk materials will be removed and kept aside so that they can be recycled for other structures in the city.

    Work starts on Monday 9 June and is expected to take about eight weeks. From this date, the Kingsway route onto Aylestone Meadows will be inaccessible while the existing boardwalk is removed, with a signposted diversion in place to an entrance at nearby Colbert Road.

    Replacing the boardwalk is funded as part of an award agreement from the Department of Transport to Sustrans. The funding has been allocated as part of the charity’s Paths for Everyone project to improve the National Cycle Network.

    Assistant city mayor for environment and transport Cllr Geoff Whittle said: “Replacing this outdated section of boardwalk will significantly improve this well-used route. It will make this entrance to Aylestone Meadows far more easily accessible to walkers and cyclists, and links up with a section of track that has already been vastly improved, providing an important and very pleasant route from county to city that we know people will value.”

    (Ends)

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: PM unveils AI breakthrough to slash planning delays and help build 1.5 million homes: 6 June 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    PM unveils AI breakthrough to slash planning delays and help build 1.5 million homes: 6 June 2025

    Planning permissions will be sped up as the Government rolls out a new AI tool which can scan hundreds of files in seconds – making it easier to make home improvements, while turbocharging the Plan for Change milestone to build 1.5 million homes.

    • PM unveils revolutionary AI tool to transform planning system and speed up housebuilding at London Tech Week

    • ‘Extract’ set to digitise planning documents and bring England’s outdated planning system into the 21st century

    • Breakthrough AI tool to be made available to all councils by Spring 2026, using Google DeepMind’s Gemini model

    • Digital planning transformation to help deliver Plan for Change milestone to build 1.5 million homes

    Planning permissions will be sped up as the Government rolls out a new AI tool which can scan hundreds of files in seconds – making it easier to make home improvements, while turbocharging the Plan for Change milestone to build 1.5 million homes.

    Speaking at London Tech Week, the Prime Minister announced the launch of “Extract” – an AI assistant for planning officers and local councils, developed by government with support from Google.

    For the first time, this cutting-edge technology will help councils convert decades-old, handwritten planning documents and maps into data in minutes – and will power new types of planning software to slash the 250,000 estimated hours spent by planning officers each year manually checking these documents. This will dramatically reduce delays that have long plagued the system.

    Around 350,000 planning applications are submitted a year in England, yet the system remains heavily reliant on paper documents – some hundreds of pages long. Once submitted, each of these documents needs to be manually validated and approved by a planning officer.  

    In test trials across Hillingdon, Nuneaton & Bedworth, and Exeter councils, Extract digitised planning records, including maps, in just three minutes each – compared to the 1–2 hours it typically takes manually. This means Extract could process around 100 planning records a day – significantly speeding up the process.

    This represents a step-change in productivity, freeing up thousands of hours for planning officers to focus on decision-making to speed up housebuilding. It will also accelerate the delivery of much-needed housing, improve reliability in the planning process and reduce costs and save time for councils and developers. 

    Extract is expected to be made available to all councils by Spring 2026. The government’s ambition is to fully digitise the planning system – making it faster, more transparent, and easier to navigate for working people, councils, businesses and developers. 

    The rollout will help deliver the government’s Plan for Change milestone to build 1.5 million homes over the next Parliament and is part of the government’s efforts to harness tech and AI to deliver change and renewal for working people.

    It also comes alongside the government’s wider efforts to digitise the planning system, building on an estimated £59.4m per year spent by councils on digital planning and housing software, delivering an estimated time and cost saving of £527m for the public sector each year.

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:  

    For too long, our outdated planning system has held back our country— slowing down the development of vital infrastructure and making it harder to get the homes we need built. 

    This government is working hand in hand with business to change that. With Extract, we’re harnessing the power of AI to help planning officers cut red tape, speed up decisions, and unlock the new homes for hard-working people as part of our Plan for Change. 

    It’s a bold step forward in our mission to build 1.5 million more homes and deliver a planning system that’s fit for the 21st century.” 

    Deputy Prime Minister and Housing Secretary Angela Rayner said:

    From day one we made an unwavering promise to use every tool at our disposal to build the 1.5 million homes and vital infrastructure through our Plan for Change that our local communities desperately need.  

    By using cutting-edge technology like Extract we can fix the broken planning system, cut delays, save money, and also reduce burdens on councils to help pave the way for the biggest building boom in a generation.” 

    Co-Founder & CEO of Google DeepMind, Demis Hassabis said:

    We build our AI models to understand all types of information – from text to handwritten notes and technical drawings – so it’s really exciting to see the UK government choose Gemini to help speed up the planning process and support planners and people across the country.

    Hillingdon Council’s Chief Operating Officer Matthew Wallbridge said:  

    ‘The UK Planning System relies on paper-based processes, and AI can help to read and then extract the key information from it, to help both residents and planning officers. The productivity benefits will allow for a faster and cheaper service’. 

    Tom Shardlow, CEO Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council said:  

    Just like many local authorities, Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council has many plans and documents in storage from historic planning applications over the years. Working with the Extract team, we have seen the outputs from Extract, and how these could improve our service, providing high quality, digital, GeoSpatial data and how this could speed up the process for our Planning Team.” 

    The government is now working with Google to develop and expand Extract to all local authorities in England using its Gemini model. The government will expand Extract to handle all planning document types with the aim of supporting local authorities to digitise all planning documents by the end of 2026.

    The planning data, unlocked through Extract, will be uploaded to a publicly accessible gov.uk service page. Open, public data will ensure the planning system is more transparent, accessible and understandable to the public. The government will also explore the best and most efficient ways to deploy Extract into local authorities – this might also include developing an app to scan documents instantly.

    This government is turning the page on the decline of the past and choosing growth with a significant number of planning decisions already made by Ministers since July. 

    This includes 18 planning decisions taken by Ministers over 85% of which within the target timeframe, and 18 nationally significant infrastructure projects approved, collectively spanning airports, data centres, solar farms and major housing developments such as the Expansion of London City Airport, a data centre in Buckinghamshire and a new M&S store in Oxford Street, London.  

    The Planning and Infrastructure Bill will also provide the powers to accelerate the infrastructure and homes needed to deliver on the government’s ambitions – and fast track critical infrastructure such as wind farms, power plants, and major road and rail projects.

    Updates to this page

    Published 9 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Incoming passenger convicted and jailed for possessing duty-not-paid cigarettes (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    An incoming female passenger was sentenced to four months’ imprisonment and fined $2,000 at the Fanling Magistrates’ Courts today (June 9) for possessing duty-not-paid cigarettes and failing to declare them to Customs officers, in contravention of the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance (DCO).

    Customs officers intercepted the incoming 39-year-old female passenger at the Lo Wu Control Point yesterday (June 8) and seized 23,200 duty-not-paid cigarettes with an estimated market value of about $95,000 and a duty potential of about $77,000 from her personal baggage. The passenger was subsequently arrested.

    Customs welcomes the sentence. The custodial sentence has imposed a considerable deterrent effect and reflects the seriousness of the offences. Customs reminds members of the public that under the DCO, tobacco products are dutiable goods to which the DCO applies. Any person who deals with, possesses, sells or buys illicit cigarettes commits an offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $1 million and imprisonment for two years.

    Members of the public may report any suspected illicit cigarette activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • PM Narendra Modi pays tribute to Birsa Munda

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday paid tributes to legendary tribal leader and freedom fighter Bhagwan Birsa Munda on his 125th death anniversary, also known as ‘Balidan Diwas’, calling his life a symbol of courage, sacrifice, and commitment to tribal welfare and national pride.

    Taking to X, the Prime Minister said, “Respectful tribute to the great hero of the freedom struggle Bhagwan Birsa Munda ji on his Balidan Diwas. He dedicated his life to the welfare of the tribal brothers and sisters and to protecting their rights. His sacrifice and dedication will always inspire the countrymen.”

    Birsa Munda, born on November 15, 1875, in Ulihatu village – now in Jharkhand – emerged as a formidable force against British colonial rule in the late 19th century.

    Despite having limited formal education, he united Adivasi communities against exploitation by British officials, landlords, and missionaries and led a socio-religious movement to assert tribal identity and rights.

    Known as ‘Dharti Aaba’ or the ‘Father of the Earth’ by tribal communities, Birsa Munda laid down his life for the cause of Indigenous empowerment and resistance to colonial oppression.

    He passed away at the young age of 25 in British custody but left behind a legacy of resistance that continues to inspire tribal and non-tribal Indians alike.

    (With inputs from IANS)

  • 11 years of Modi govt: Over 9 crore patients treated under Ayushman Bharat

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    In the eleven years of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government, healthcare has emerged as a major focus area, with the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) playing a central role. More than 9 crore people have received free treatment worth Rs 1.3 lakh crore under the scheme—more than twice the population of Canada.

    According to the Economic Survey 2024–25, AB PM-JAY has helped citizens save over ₹1.25 lakh crore in out-of-pocket expenses and improved healthcare access through increased public spending. Between FY 2015 and FY 2022, Government Health Expenditure rose from 29% to 48%, while Out-of-Pocket Expenditure dropped from 62.6% to 39.4%.

    Initially targeting families based on the SECC 2011, the scheme expanded in 2022 to include 12 crore families, with states allowed to use additional socio-economic datasets. In 2024, coverage was extended to 37 lakh frontline health workers and, later, to 6 crore senior citizens aged 70 and above, regardless of income.

    All government hospitals with in-patient facilities are deemed empanelled, and a three-tier grievance redressal system ensures accountability. To boost private sector participation, the National Health Authority introduced a revised Health Benefit Package, streamlined empanelment via HEM 2.0, and launched support helplines and district units.

    The scheme continues to transform India’s healthcare landscape, making quality medical care accessible to millions.

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Letter to the Prime Minister on improving the nation’s health through primary prevention

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Correspondence

    Letter to the Prime Minister on improving the nation’s health through primary prevention

    Advice to the Prime Minister on how government can improve the nation’s health through primary prevention.

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    CST advice on improving the nation’s health through primary prevention

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    CST advice on improving the nation’s health through primary prevention

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    Details

    In May 2025, the Council for Science and Technology (CST) provided advice to the Prime Minister on improving the nation’s health through primary prevention. CST recommended action in three key areas:

    • Demonstrate leadership by implementing bold interventions to tackle smoking, alcohol consumption, outdoor air pollution and obesity.
    • Prioritise childhood health to promote the nation’s overall wellbeing and future prosperity.
    • Scope and deliver a modern, personalised disease prevention service.

    Updates to this page

    Published 9 June 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: £20m contract to help unlock housebuilding in large area of Kent

    Source: City of Canterbury

    Home  »  Latest News   »   £20m contract to help unlock housebuilding in large area of Kent

    As part of the development of its nutrient mitigation portfolio in Kent, Stour Environmental Credits Ltd (SEC) is seeking to appoint a suitable provider/installer to convert existing septic tanks and private package treatment plants to high efficacy private package treatment plants (PTPs).

    The upgrade generates nutrient offset/saving (both phosphorus and nitrogen) from the installation.

    The successful bidder (the Services Provider) in this procurement will work with homeowners to upgrade their septic tanks as well as provide SEC with phosphorus and nitrogen offset/saving.

    SEC will then convert these nutrient savings into tradeable ‘credits’ to housebuilders and developers who need to offset the additional nutrients arising from the new developments/houses they intend to build in the River Stour catchment area.

    The contract term is two years and the estimated contract value is £20m, excluding VAT. SEC will be working with Kent County Council (as the holder of the MHCLG Local Nutrient Mitigation Fund) to secure an initial funding bid to develop this programme.

    Companies interested in responding need to act fast – the deadline for the receipt of clarifications about this Invitation To Tender is 10am on 23 June 2025; the deadline to submit tenders is 10am on 30 June 2025.

    Anyone interested in learning more can visit the Kent Business Portal.

    Stour Environmental Credits Ltd is a Joint Venture company created by Ashford Borough Council and Canterbury City Council. The not-for-profit company is looking to work with mitigation providers and housing developers to enable thousands of much-needed new homes to be delivered across the Stour catchment area, principally in the boroughs of Ashford and Canterbury.

    Published: 9 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SLW visits Germany to attract I&T talent to Hong Kong (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Mr Chris Sun, arrived in Munich to start the final day of his visit to Germany on June 8 (Munich time), concluding the six-day visit to Europe.

         In the afternoon, Mr Sun attended a pitch event co-organised by the Hong Kong Talent Engage (HKTE) and a local youth entrepreneurship organisation, where he officiated at the prize presentation ceremony.

         In delivering his remarks, Mr Sun praised the candidates for their business proposals ingeniously integrating with Hong Kong’s strengths and targeting the Asian markets. He highlighted that technology as well as talent are key engines driving the economy and society towards high-quality development. As Asia’s world city, Hong Kong is proactively attracting international high-calibre talent to tie in with the development under the strategic positioning of the “eight centres”, so as to inject new impetus into its high-quality development.

         Last November, the HKTE visited Germany and established a partnership network with a student association from the Technische Universität München and a local youth entrepreneurship organisation. Thereafter, the HKTE collaborated with the organisation to launch the pitch event targeting students from eligible universities under the Top Talent Pass Scheme and young entrepreneurs, inviting talent in Germany with entrepreneurial ambitions and intentions to develop in Asia.

         Nearly 580 proposals for the pitch event were received across various fields, including artificial intelligence, deep tech, climate and sustainability, as well as health and biotechnology. After two rounds of shortlisting, 25 candidates competed in the finals. The judging panel of the finals included representatives from the Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and start-up organisations, as well as an innovation and technology (I&T) expert and an angel investor from Hong Kong. Twelve winners were selected and will be arranged to tour Hong Kong and other cities in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area in September to explore the region’s I&T ecosystem, industry support and entrepreneurial opportunities.

         The HKTE delegation’s visit to Europe also encompasses Switzerland and France. In Switzerland, the delegation exchanged with representatives from three of the world’s top 100 universities, namely the Université de Genève, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne and EHL Hospitality Business School, and invited two representatives from the hospitality sector in Hong Kong to share insights on the city’s tourism development and opportunities. In France, the HKTE co-hosts an event with the Institut Européen d’Administration des Affaires (INSEAD) to proactively recruit talent in the finance and commerce sectors to pursue development in Hong Kong.

         During his stay in Germany, Mr Sun also had lunch with the Junior Chamber International Germany and a group of foreign students in Germany. He learned about their lives, introduced the latest development in Hong Kong, and invited them to consider pursuing their development in the city.

         Mr Sun will return to Hong Kong in the evening.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • Iran to present counter-proposal to U.S. in nuclear talks

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Iran will soon hand a counter-proposal for a nuclear deal to the United States via Oman, Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said on Monday, in response to a U.S. offer that Tehran deems “unacceptable”.

    Reuters previously reported that Tehran was drafting a negative response to the U.S. proposal which was presented in late May. An Iranian diplomat said the U.S. offer failed to resolve differences over uranium enrichment on Iranian soil, the shipment abroad of Iran’s entire stockpile of highly enriched uranium and steps to lift U.S. sanctions.

    “The U.S. proposal is not acceptable to us. It was not the result of previous rounds of negotiations. We will present our own proposal to the other side via Oman after it is finalised. This proposal is reasonable, logical, and balanced,” Baghaei said.

    Baghaei added that there was not yet any detail regarding the date of a sixth round of nuclear talks between Iran and the U.S.

    Last week, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei dismissed the U.S. proposal as against the country’s interests, pledging to continue enrichment.

    During his first term in 2018, U.S. President Donald Trump ditched a 2015 nuclear pact between Iran and six powers and reimposed sanctions that have crippled Iran’s economy. Iran responded by escalating enrichment far beyond that pact’s limits.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Women Empowerment Fund invites 2025-26 first-round applications

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The Women Empowerment Fund is open for the first round of applications this year starting from today (June 9) until July 8. The Fund subsidises projects that support women in balancing their career and family commitments, raise awareness of women’s physical and mental health, and unlock their potential.

    Set up in June 2023, the Fund aims to empower women, regardless of their age, occupation or background, to realise their full potential in their respective roles, thereby promoting women’s development in Hong Kong.
     
    The Fund is divided into general and thematic projects. The funding cap of each one-year and two-year general project is $400,000 and $800,000 respectively.

    This year’s thematic projects include the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Exchange Programme and the Programme on Women’s Participation in Community Services. The exchange programme will enable women to broaden their horizons, deepen their understanding of national affairs, and interact with local residents, thereby promoting women’s development. Each exchange project shall be completed within one year, and the funding cap is $120,000. In addition, the community services programme aims to encourage women to make use of their own strengths to plan and launch community service projects, thereby promoting care and inclusion. Each community services project shall be completed within one year, and the funding cap is $400,000.

    The Fund accepts two rounds of applications each year. The Guide to Application and the application form have been uploaded to the Fund’s website (www.wef.gov.hk). Interested eligible women’s groups and non-governmental organisations may submit an electronic or paper application.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –