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Category: DJF

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council Leader welcomes major Government transport funding announcement

    Source: City of Manchester

    Council Leader Bev Craig reacts to news today that the Greater Manchester region will receive £2.5bn in new funding to create the UK’s first fully integrated, zero-emission public transport network.

    The funding will also unlock proposals for a new Metrolink stop at Sandhills in Collyhurst that will support ongoing investment in the community and drive future phases of regeneration in the north Manchester neighbourhood.  

    Cllr Craig said:  

    “Today’s £2.5bn zero-emissions transport funding announcement is transformative news for Manchester and the city region. Manchester has campaigned for many years to see investment in our transport system. In a settlement that was better than we predicted and will make a real difference right across the city.

    “We have already seen the success of bringing the buses under public control and this will be a much-needed boost to improve capacity for years to come.  

    “This investment will also help create new homes and new jobs – and it is a clear show of support from this government towards our sustainable growth agenda. 

    “Crucially for Manchester, this funding will help deliver the brand new Metrolink stop at Sandhills in Collyhurst and unlock the ambitious future phases of regeneration in this community that will see more than 2,500 new homes – including significant Council and social housing – and new shops alongside education and medical facilities.  

    “This is a major driver for the future investment in Collyhurst as part of the once-in-a-generation Victoria North regeneration programme that will deliver more than 15,000 new homes in the next decade across seven neighbourhoods, each connected by quality green space.  

    “But this is only one element of the ambitious plans for North Manchester. We look forward to working closely with this Government in the coming months to realise the wider potential of this part of our city through the North Manchester General Hospital programme, continued investment into our high streets and district centres, and a raft of new home building that puts North Manchester as a priority for our future growth plans.” 

    The first phase of development in Collyhurst is nearly complete, where 274 new homes are under construction, including 130 homes for social rent alongside a new community park.  

    Find out more about the regeneration of Collyhurst 

    Find out more about the Victoria North regeneration programme 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Proposed revision of the national policy statement for ports

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Written statement to Parliament

    Proposed revision of the national policy statement for ports

    Respondents have until 29 July 2025 to submit their views on the draft revised national policy statement for ports.

    Today (4 June 2025), I am laying before Parliament the draft amended national policy statement for ports (NPSP).

    The extant NPSP was designated in 2012. It sets out the need for development of ports in England and at reserved trust ports in Wales, currently Milford Haven. The NPSP provides guidance for applicants in preparing and for the Secretary of State in determining applications for development consent orders (DCOs) for sea port applications.

    The previous government announced a review of the current NPSP in a written ministerial statement in March 2023. In light of our missions and priorities, this government has continued that review and has decided to amend the document.

    Today, I have launched a public consultation on a draft revised NPSP, along with an appraisal of sustainability (AoS) and habitats regulations assessment (HRA). These are subject to a public consultation period of 8 weeks and to Parliamentary scrutiny in parallel. My department is also publishing port freight demand forecasts for the United Kingdom as a whole, to which the draft NPSP refers. The documents are available on GOV.UK.

    I will place copies of the public consultation document, the appraisal of sustainability, and the habitats regulation assessment in the libraries of the House. The public consultation will close on 29 July 2025. The relevant period for parliamentary scrutiny will be from 4 June to 14 November 2025.

    The review of the NPSP is proceeding in parallel with our wider programme of planning reforms, including the Planning and Infrastructure Bill currently before this House, designed to expedite and facilitate decision-making and stimulate growth and green energy transformation.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Polytechnic students have developed a model for shelf development

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    The Institute of Industrial Management, Economics and Trade of SPbPU together with the international logistics company “Aurora Logistics” held a student case championship. Participants were looking for practical solutions for the formation of an effective transport and logistics model for the development of hydrocarbon deposits on the shelf.

    The championship started in early April, when the teams received tasks from the company. For one and a half months, 25 teams from 14 cities in Russia, Belarus and Uzbekistan prepared solutions to defend them in the final. The event was held in a mixed format: in person, online and remotely.

    The guys worked on effective transport and logistics solutions for the development of offshore hydrocarbon deposits. Difficult climatic conditions, environmental risks and the need to minimize costs dictate the search for breakthrough solutions. The participants presented projects that combine digital technologies, environmental responsibility and economic efficiency.

    For our institute, it is important to organize and hold events together with the economic sector. It is the case championship format that puts participants in a real situation of finding solutions in conditions of time shortage and uncertainty with some data. The key here is the presence of tasks from partner companies and the competitive element, plus online materials and webinars with experts. All this involves students in the process, motivates, and provides practical experience, – noted Vladimir Shchepinin, Director of the Institute of Industrial Management, Economics and Trade.

    The jury included representatives of Aurora Logistics: Deputy General Director for Offshore Project Logistics Alexander Kornalevsky and Head of the HR Department Olga Abramova, as well as Director of the Higher School of Industrial Management Olga Kalinina, Professors Mikhail Afanasyev and Alexander Ilyinsky, Associate Professors Anna Timofeeva, Natalya Alekseeva, Lyudmila Medvedeva and Dmitry Metkin, Senior Lecturer Vyacheslav Melokhin and Assistant Konstantin Sharlai.

    The first place was taken by Elizaveta Dasayeva, Karina Malyukova, Yulia Eroshenko and Maria Vshivkova, representing the G. I. Nosov Magnitogorsk State Technical University.

    Second place was awarded to students of the Higher School of Industrial Management of SPbPU Anastasia Malashchitskaya, Egor Korolev, Denis Krutov and Alexander Khomyakov.

    Third place was shared between two teams. These are students of the Belarusian State Economic University Ekaterina Meshkova, Maria Zakharchuk, Olga Shutova, Ksenia Sarkan. And students of the Higher School of Industrial Management of SPbPU Artur Prokhorov, Diana Svitkova, Alexandra Karkhanova and Nikolai Kazmin.

    The students were awarded winners’ diplomas, certificates, special diplomas for individual nominations and valuable gifts from Aurora Logistics.

    This championship is the result of a strategic partnership between the Higher School of Industrial Management and the company “Aurora Logistics”, fixed in a cooperation agreement. It is extremely important for us that students solve real cases, not abstract problems. This is how our model of practice-oriented education works: through interaction with the industry, we prepare specialists who are ready to immediately get involved in work on complex projects, be it the Arctic or other points of economic growth, – emphasized the director of the Higher School of Industrial Management Olga Kalinina.

    The students immersed themselves in the specifics of developing offshore hydrocarbon deposits and showed themselves to a potential employer. Special thanks to the members of the organizing committee: the head of the HR department of Aurora Logistics Olga Abramova and associate professor of the higher school Anna Timofeeva, – noted the main organizer of the championship, academic director of educational programs in oil and gas management Mikhail Afanasyev.

    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: “Young Architects Are Changing the Face of Moscow” — Hussam Shakuf on New Principles in Organizing the Urban Environment

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Monumentality, modern technologies and movement into the future – this is how British architect and urban designer Hussam Shakuf sees Moscow. He visited the capital in 2021, and when he returned four years later, he did not recognize it at first – and does not hide his delight at the changes.

    Hussam Shakuf visited the 6th Moscow Interior and Design Week, which took place in the Manezh Central Exhibition Hall. There he gave a lecture entitled “Beyond Borders: Creating Inspiring Interiors and Public Spaces”. And in an interview with a correspondent from the mos.ru portal, the architect talked about what he likes about the Russian capital, whether new buildings should be combined with cultural heritage monuments, and what his vision of a smart city is.

    From old to new

    Hussam Shaqouf is best known for the projects he worked on with the renowned British firm Zaha Hadid Architects for 17 years. Among others, he designed an asymmetrical diamond-shaped shell in North Africa and the ellipsoidal headquarters of a major smartphone manufacturer in Shenzhen. Hussam Shaqouf also participated in the design of a business center in the southeast of Moscow, consisting of flat squares stacked on top of each other.

    The specialist highly praised the changes that have taken place in the capital’s architecture in recent years.

    “In Moscow, there are more buildings created by young architects who use parametrics in their design – computer modeling based on mathematical algorithms. These buildings feel dynamic, moving into the future,” the architect believes.

    From his point of view, there is also dynamism in the proximity of cultural heritage sites to modern buildings – this is a hint at the transition from the past to the present and future.

    “On the one hand, it is important when the city has buildings that are reminiscent of past eras. In those distant times, they were also a symbol of progress, and, of course, they need to be restored and maintained. On the other hand, when planning new objects, we always look ahead, asking ourselves: how will they fit into the metropolis in five years? Is it worth building retro-style buildings now just so as not to violate the concept of the street? I admit, I am for contrast. Let old mansions and avant-garde towers stand next to modern houses. After all, the future belongs to the new. Of the old that I see in Moscow now, Stalinist architecture is closest to me: these houses, although built in the middle of the 20th century, seem to be a foundation, a model for creating ultra-modern buildings, they have a sense of monumentality,” says Hussam Shakuf.

    He calls himself a bearer of the avant-garde DNA. At the same time, the architect admits that even in postmodernist projects it is important to take into account the cultural characteristics of the country and the city and organically integrate them into fantastic ideas and new technologies. Such is, for example, the Heydar Aliyev Center in Baku, created by Zaha Hadid Architects: the outlines of its roof reflect the waves of the Caspian Sea, and the swaying flames, referring to the ancient cult of fire that existed in Azerbaijan, and geometric figures – a triangle, a rectangle, a trapezoid.

    A city built with intelligence

    According to Hussam Shakuf, a modern city should be comfortable to live in. However, despite the architect’s commitment to everything modern, he is against a metropolis consisting entirely of roads and cars.

    “It’s healthier to walk. If you walk for 35 minutes, you’ll quickly relieve stress, which means you’ll be happier and more productive. I’d also install smart traffic lights everywhere, which would reduce car traffic,” says our interlocutor.

    Another thing is that the size of Moscow and other world capitals hardly allows for walking. But Hussam Shakuf knows how to solve this problem.

    “Large cities need large multifunctional complexes where people can live, study, work, and have fun, then they won’t have to go anywhere, and the economy of the area where such a complex is built will develop. And this is exactly the concept I call a smart city,” the architect notes.

    He also does not support the widespread launch of air taxis, as is planned in some cities in the future. “This means that passengers will land on roofs and enter buildings from above. What is the point of having a ground floor then? If this is the method of moving around the city that wins in the future, we will have to design buildings completely differently,” says Hussam Shakuf.

    Places for communication

    According to Hussam Shaqouf, the interior structure of a building is what connects architecture with man.

    “I recently worked on a project for a business center for a Chinese smartphone manufacturer in Shenzhen. First of all, I tried to put myself in the shoes of the company’s employees and understand what could inspire them when they come to work. Firstly, it is a view of the city and the Shenzhen Bay, so the walls are glass. Secondly, convenient passages from one tower to another, and you can get into the buildings both from the street and from the interior. Thirdly, spacious rooms where people communicate with each other and drink coffee,” the architect says.

    In his opinion, the most important thing in the interior is accessible and at the same time isolated public spaces. In particular, he would like to build houses in Moscow where the courtyard is at the level of the second floor and is a podium: so residents could walk with their children and talk to each other without being distracted by passers-by and what is happening on the streets.

    “We currently discuss business and personal interests mainly on social networks. But is it really possible to really get to know a person this way? If every home or office had a place to meet with neighbors and colleagues, there would be no need for online correspondence,” Hussam Shakuf sums up.

    More than 50 applications have already been submitted for the competition “Best Implemented Project in the Field of Construction”A Round Kindergarten, a Ribbon Roof, and a “Flying” Metro. The Laureates of the City’s Architectural Prize in Different Years — in DetailFrom Denmark with Love. Urbanist and Architect Jan Gehl Shares His Impressions of MoscowFirm determination. French urbanist Nicolas Bouchaud on changes in Moscow, similarities with Paris, and climate strategyDavid Adjaye’s Utopia and Zaha Hadid’s Curves: Architecture of the Future in Moscow

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

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

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/154800073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: UNECE study identifies pathways for digital and green energy transition in South-Eastern and Eastern Europe, the Caucasus, and Central Asia

    Source: United Nations Economic Commission for Europe

    The transition to clean energy in South-Eastern and Eastern Europe, the Caucasus, and Central Asia necessitates a comprehensive overhaul of power systems, with investment needs estimated at $150 billion by 2030. However, by embracing digitalization across all sectors – from generation and transmission to distribution and end-use – and integration with renewable energy, these countries could reduce their carbon emissions by up to 70% and energy costs by as much as 80%, subject to system-wide optimization, outlines the UNECE study “Integrating twin transition with legacy energy systems”   

    The study analyses opportunities and challenges for a digital transformation of energy systems in Albania, Belarus, Georgia, Kyrgyzstan, North Macedonia, Republic of Moldova, and Ukraine, where about 60% of the total energy mix today comes from natural gas and coal.   

    The study underscores that digital solutions and innovations such as Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things, Digital Twins, and Virtual Power Plants, offer significant opportunities in managing and integrating distributed, often variable renewable energy-based resources. It also highlights potential to optimize legacy systems and enhance both cybersecurity and grid resilience. 

    This will require robust policy measures and initiatives to boost investments in advanced, resilient grids. It will also necessitate increased support for innovation and research, strategic planning and massive professional training.   

    Overcoming challenges 

    The study identifies key challenges to be addressed in the region’s largely outdated energy systems: 

    • Ageing energy infrastructure, much of which was built during the Soviet era. For example, in Belarus, over 60% of the thermal power plants are over 30 years old, resulting in high maintenance costs; in Georgia, the average age of electricity transmission lines exceeds 30 years, resulting in transmission losses estimated at 12%.  

    • Energy security risks due to dependence on fossil fuel imports. For example, the Republic of Moldova imports approximately 70% of its electricity, primarily from Romania and Ukraine; in Belarus, about 50% of energy needs are met through natural gas imports from the Russian Federation. 

    • Limited financial resources to invest in modernizing energy systems. For instance, Albania has struggled to secure funding for proposed solar and wind projects totalling approximately $300 million; in Belarus only about 5% of the necessary investments have been secured for planned RE installations; financial constraints limit modernization of ageing hydropower infrastructure in Kyrgyzstan. 

    • Lack of skilled workforce. For example, in Georgia, around 30% of energy sector professionals lack formal training in RE technologies.  

    • Climate and health impacts. For instance, Belarus emits approximately 8 million tonnes of CO2 annually from its energy sector alone, with coal-fired plants being significant contributors. North Macedonia’s reliance on coal contributes to air pollution levels among the highest in Europe.  

    Key strategies identified in the study include: 

    • Cross-border infrastructure projects, such as Trans-Caspian high-voltage direct current lines, are vital for enhancing regional energy trade and digital connectivity; 

    The report identifies three priority action areas: (1) scaling energy efficiency through retrofitting that embraces digital technologies; (2) promoting hybrid energy models that combine gas with hydrogen; and (3) advancing smart grids, standardization, and regional integration. 

    Importantly, the study promotes a human-centered approach to digitalization that  balances innovation with ethical considerations and prioritizes equity, social considerations, and long-term sustainability for a just transition. 

    From research to action 

    The study was showcased during a workshop “Assessing the readiness of the energy sector to implement smart digital energy-efficient technologies in Belarus in view of climate change mitigation” held in Minsk, Belarus, and online on 22 May 2025. The hybrid workshop, organized by UNECE in cooperation with UNDP Belarus and the Department of Energy Efficiency of the State Committee for Standardization of the Republic of Belarus, brought together over 100 participants including government officials, energy sector representatives, and international experts, to explore how smart digital tools can support energy efficiency, clean mobility, and climate action in Belarus.  

    For more information about UNECE work on Energy Efficiency, please visit: https://unece.org/sustainable-energy/energy-efficiency 

     Photo credit: Adobe Stock Images by Sergii.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Audience with a delegation of the “National Italian American Foundation”

    Source: The Holy See

    Audience with a delegation of the “National Italian American Foundation”, 04.06.2025
    This morning, in the study of the Paul VI Hall, the Holy Father Leo XIV received in audience a delegation of the “National Italian American Foundation”.
    The following are the words of greeting addressed to those present by the Holy Father:

    Greeting of the Holy Father
    In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. [Amen.]
    Peace be with you. [And with your Spirit.]
    Welcome to all of you, please be seated.
    Again, good morning, I am happy to meet with you. I apologize to have kept you waiting. The Vatican scheduling system puts four audiences all at the same time. That way, unfortunately, you have to wait for me and not vice versa. I will give a brief formal statement, and then will be happy to greet you all individually. Then I have the General Audience in Piazza San Pietro following this meeting.
     
    Dear brothers and sisters,
    I am pleased to greet you, the members of the Board of Directors of the National Italian American Foundation as your organization celebrates its fiftieth anniversary. As you well know, tens of millions of Americans proudly claim their Italian heritage, even if their ancestors arrived in the United States of America generations ago. Your work to continue to educate young people regarding Italian culture and history, as well as providing scholarships and other charitable assistance in both countries, helps to maintain a mutually beneficial and concrete connection between the two nations.
    A hallmark of many who immigrated to the United States from Italy was their Catholic faith, with its rich traditions of popular piety and devotions that they continued to practice in their new nation. This faith sustained them in difficult moments, even as they arrived with a sense of hope for a prosperous future in their new country.  Your visit to the Vatican occurs during the Jubilee Year, which is focused on hope, which “dwells as the desire and expectation of good things to come, despite our not knowing what the future may bring” (Spes Non Confundit, 1).  In an age beset by many challenges, may your time here, in a city marked by the tombs of the Apostles Peter and Paul as well as many saints who strengthened the Church throughout difficult periods of history, may this renew your sense of hope and trust in the future.  I pray that each of you and your families will always cherish the rich spiritual and cultural legacy that you have inherited from those who have gone before you.
    With these sentiments, I gladly impart to you my Apostolic Blessing, which I willingly extend to your families, to all your loved ones. Thank you.
    The blessing is written in Latin, but I think we can do it in English.
    The Lord be with you. [And with your Spirit.]
    May the blessing of Almighty God, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, come upon you all and remain with you forever. Amen.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK From debate to law: A bills journey through the House of Lords

    Source: United Kingdom UK House of Lords (video statements)

    In the Lords, proposed new laws, known as bills, go through several stages of debate. From their introduction in the House and detailed scrutiny by Lords members, to votes and ‘ping pong’ with the House of Commons, follow the journey of a bill as it makes its way through the Lords.

    Catch-up on House of Lords business:

    Watch live events: https://parliamentlive.tv/Lords
    Read the latest news: https://www.parliament.uk/lords/

    Stay up to date with the House of Lords on social media:

    • X: https://twitter.com/UKHouseofLords
    • Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/houseoflords.parliament.uk
    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/UKHouseofLords/
    • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UKHouseofLords
    • Flickr: https://flickr.com/photos/ukhouseoflords/albums
    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-house-of-lords
    • Threads: https://www.threads.net/@UKHouseOfLords

    #HouseOfLords #UKParliament

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eao0CMk124Y

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Unlocking billions in private capital to tackle climate change

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Case study

    Unlocking billions in private capital to tackle climate change

    The UK’s International Climate Finance (ICF) mobilises billions in public and private funding for clean energy projects in developing countries.

    UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer speaks at the Climate Investment Funds roundtable at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan. Picture by Simon Dawson, No 10 Downing Street.

    Public finance alone is not going to fund the global energy transition. That’s why we need innovative solutions to mobilise private investment to tackle climate change.

    The Climate Investment Funds’ Capital Market Mechanism (CCMM) demonstrates how the UK is playing a leading role in mobilising the necessary finance to support developing countries in their efforts to cut carbon emissions, build renewables and adapt to climate change.

    Launched by the UK Prime Minister at COP29, the mechanism is designed to unlock billions in climate finance by leveraging future loan repayments from previous investments. It could mobilise up to $75 billion in public and private funding for new clean energy projects in developing countries and reduce global emissions.

    Read more about UK International Climate Finance.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Protecting mangroves in Madagascar and Indonesia

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Case study

    Protecting mangroves in Madagascar and Indonesia

    The UK’s International Climate Finance (ICF) supports mangrove conservation to reduce the impacts of climate change, protect biodiversity and boost livelihoods.

    Mangrove monitoring in Madagascar for the Blue Forest Initiative. Source: Leah Glass, Blue Ventures.

    Mangrove forests, found in tropical and sub-tropical coastal areas, are a vital home for endangered species such as the white breasted sea eagle and olive ridley turtles. They also support coastal communities that depend on them for their livelihoods.

    Crucially, mangroves play a key role in tackling climate change, with the ability to store up to 4 times more carbon than rainforests.

    However, mangrove forests have been in severe decline for decades. To address this, the UK government is funding the Blue Forest Initiatives programme, led by the UK non-profit Blue Ventures, to protect, restore and sustainably manage mangrove forests in Madagascar and Indonesia.

    The community-led programme is working to prevent deforestation and overfishing while supporting the livelihoods of up to 70,000 people.

    With a goal of protecting approximately 80,000 hectares of mangrove forests – an area larger than the size of 100,000 football pitches, the programme is expected to save 1.7 million tonnes of carbon dioxide from being released.

    By securing the future of these critical ecosystems, the UK is not only combatting climate change but also safeguarding biodiversity and tackling extreme poverty.

    Read more about UK International Climate Finance.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: CMA letter to NatWest about breaching Parts 7, 8 and 9 of the Retail Banking Order

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Correspondence

    CMA letter to NatWest about breaching Parts 7, 8 and 9 of the Retail Banking Order

    Letter to NatWest Group plc, after the Competition and Markets Authority found it breached Parts 7, 8 and 9 of the Retail Banking Market Investigation Order 2017.

    Documents

    CMA letter to NatWest about breaching Parts 7, 8 and 9 of the Retail Banking Order

    PDF, 129 KB, 4 pages

    Details

    Part 7 of the Retail Banking Market Investigation Order 2017 (the Order) requires banks to set a Monthly Maximum Charge (MMC) in relation to unarranged overdraft charges. Providers cannot charge customers more than the MMC in any given month. Providers must say what their MMC is each time they mention unarranged overdraft charges in product literature.

    Part 8 of the Order requires banks to disclose the representative cost in Equivalent Annual Rate (EAR) terms of their overdrafts and in Annual Percentage Rate (APR) terms for their loans in the way set out in the Order.

    Part 9 of the Order requires that banks offer a price and eligibility tool which will enable SMEs to obtain an indicative price quote and indication of their eligibility for unsecured loans and standard tariff unsecured business overdrafts.

    NatWest breached the Order by failing to:

    • either provide the MMC, or to provide the correct MMC to around 104,800 customers in three separate breaches (Part 7). The longest breach lasted from 16 June 2023 to 2 April 2024.

    • include the Representative EAR in letters to 66,765 SME customers which included an offer to renew an overdraft between May 2021 and February 2024 (Part 8)

    • continuously offer the price and eligibility tool defined in the Order on four occasions (Part 9). The longest breach was between at least 1 May 2023 until 5 July 2024 and affected around 200 SMEs per month

    This letter sets out our concerns and what NatWest did to put things right.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 June 2025

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    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Helping communities adapt to storms in Bangladesh

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Case study

    Helping communities adapt to storms in Bangladesh

    The UK’s International Climate Finance (ICF) supports AI-based forecasting to boost extreme weather preparedness in Bangladesh.

    UK International Climate Finance supports AI-based forecasting to increase extreme weather preparedness in Bangladesh.

    Extreme weather events such as storms are getting more frequent and intense all over the world due to a more unstable climate. For many Bangladeshi coastal communities, tidal surges can be devastating for people’s livelihoods.

    CLARE (Climate, Adaptation and Resilience), a research programme on climate adaptation and resilience jointly run by the UK and Canada, is piloting an innovative AI-based forecasting system to provide early warnings and help with long-term planning against storms.

    When Cyclone Remal hit in 2024, displacing over 120,000 people, the project was able to provide timely information by identifying 30 at-risk embankment points. This allowed local people to effectively mobilise resources in real-time and strengthen embankments to limit damage.

    Once completed, the AI model is set to be adopted by government and humanitarian groups across the country.

    The project shows how we’re providing value for money by helping communities adapt to the impacts of climate change. Using data from tide stations and drone surveys, the project will aim to provide highly accurate forecasts for tidal surges.

    Read more about UK International Climate Finance.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Supporting farmers to go green in Zambia

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Case study

    Supporting farmers to go green in Zambia

    The UK’s International Climate Finance (ICF) backs sustainable farming and eco-tourism in Zambia to cut emissions and create jobs.

    People working on Zambia Integrated Forest Landscapes Project.

    Since 2018, the UK has been supporting the Zambia Integrated Forest Landscapes Project (ZIFL Programme) to support rural communities in the Eastern Province of Zambia, one of the poorest regions of Africa.

    In June 2024, Zambia signed an ERPA (Emission Reductions Purchase Agreements). This agreement will ensure local people receive payments in exchange for reducing emissions.

    With a goal to cut emissions by 30 million tonnes, equivalent to the UK’s annual emissions from livestock farming, the project has already trained over 100,000 farmers in sustainable techniques like crop rotation and agroforestry.

    As well as cutting carbon, the project is also working with the Luambe and Lukusuzi National Parks to help build roads and campsites, creating rural jobs through eco-tourism and ensuring the protection of wildlife.

    UK International Climate Finance supports the Zambia Integrated Forest Landscapes Project.

    People working on Zambia Integrated Forest Landscapes Project.

    Read more about UK International Climate Finance.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Georgia: Staff Concluding Statement of the 2025 Article IV Mission

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    June 4, 2025

    A Concluding Statement describes the preliminary findings of IMF staff at the end of an official staff visit (or ‘mission’), in most cases to a member country. Missions are undertaken as part of regular (usually annual) consultations under Article IV of the IMF’s Articles of Agreement, in the context of a request to use IMF resources (borrow from the IMF), as part of discussions of staff monitored programs, or as part of other staff monitoring of economic developments.

    The authorities have consented to the publication of this statement. The views expressed in this statement are those of the IMF staff and do not necessarily represent the views of the IMF’s Executive Board. Based on the preliminary findings of this mission, staff will prepare a report that, subject to management approval, will be presented to the IMF Executive Board for discussion and decision.

    Tbilisi: An International Monetary Fund (IMF) mission led by Mr. Alejandro Hajdenberg conducted discussions for the 2025 Article IV consultation with Georgia from May 21 to June 4, 2025, in Tbilisi. At the end of the visit, Mr. Hajdenberg issued the following statement:

    Georgia’s economy has been remarkably resilient despite heightened domestic and geopolitical uncertainty. Growth approached double digits in 2024, is projected at 7.2 percent this year, and is expected to converge to its long-term trend of 5 percent. Inflation has ticked up but remains close to its 3 percent target. Meanwhile, foreign exchange reserves have recovered from last year’s lows and continued fiscal discipline has contributed to a further decline in public debt. However, risks to the outlook are elevated and challenges persist due to still high structural unemployment and income inequality. In this context, the National Bank of Georgia (NBG) should prioritize building additional reserve buffers while monitoring potential financial sector risks. Strengthening NBG’s governance and independence remains central to macroeconomic stability. Fiscal reforms should aim to raise additional revenues to finance development priorities, improve spending efficiency, and contain fiscal risks. Structural reforms should focus on sustaining strong growth and making it more inclusive, including by enhancing labor market opportunities and outcomes.

    Recent economic developments, outlook, and risks

    Economic activity has remained robust. Real GDP grew by 9.4 percent in 2024 despite domestic political tensions. Growth was driven by consumption, marking a shift from previous years when investment and net exports were the main contributors. Tourism rebounded to pre-Covid levels, while the information and communications technology (ICT) and transport sectors remained key drivers of growth, continuing to benefit from high skilled migrants and transit trade. The unemployment rate continued to decline, albeit remaining structurally high. With strong momentum continuing in the first four months of 2025, growth is projected to moderate slightly to 7.2 percent for this year before converging to its medium-term potential rate of 5 percent.

    Inflation has returned to target after undershooting for two years. Headline inflation averaged 1.8 percent over 2023 and 2024 but rose to 3.5 percent year-on-year in May 2025, mainly due to increasing food prices. Core inflation, however, remains subdued, with the NBG keeping the policy rate unchanged at 8 percent since May 2024. Inflation is projected to average 3.4 percent in 2025 and to converge to the NBG’s 3 percent target in 2026 along with easing domestic demand.

    The current account deficit narrowed in 2024 to 4.4 percent of GDP, with a similar projection for 2025, but reserve coverage remains below adequate levels. The improvement in 2024 was driven by lower imports, partly reflecting lower oil prices. Foreign direct investment (FDI) declined for the second straight year, in part reflecting the absence of new large greenfield projects. Gross international reserves have fallen from a peak of $5.4 billion in August 2023 to $4.5 billion as of April 2025––equal to 80 percent of the Fund’s Assessment of Reserve Adequacy (ARA) metric. Recent favorable inflows have allowed the NBG to offset the sizeable foreign exchange sales made before the October parliamentary elections.

    The fiscal deficit held steady at 2.4 percent of GDP in 2024, despite it being an election year, and is expected to remain unchanged in 2025. Robust tax revenues––supported by strong growth, tax policy measures in the financial and gambling sectors, and improved revenue administration––have helped finance social and capital spending. Amid stronger-than-expected economic activity, the 2025 budget target of 2.5 percent of GDP deficit is well within reach. Public debt, at 36 percent of GDP, has returned to pre-pandemic levels, with an increasing share denominated in local currency. The USD 500 million Eurobond maturing in April 2026 is expected to be rolled over smoothly.

    While uncertainty remains exceptionally high, risks to the outlook appear broadly balanced. The direct impact from tariffs imposed by the U.S. is limited as the U.S. accounts for only 2 percent of total exports—mainly ferroalloys, which are exempt. However, the indirect effects of heightened global trade tensions could be more significant. Weaker investor confidence and slower trading partner growth pose negative risks, but Georgia could benefit from lower oil prices and sustained trade diversion through its territory. A resolution of the war in Ukraine could unwind some gains linked to migration and transit trade but increased regional stability and reconstruction in Ukraine could be offsetting positive factors. Persistent domestic political uncertainty and sanctions affecting Georgia could dampen FDI, discourage tourism, and further pressure the lari. Healthy fiscal and financial sector buffers mitigate these risks.

    Monetary and exchange policies

    The NBG should maintain a broadly neutral policy stance while remaining flexible and data driven to ensure inflation expectations remain anchored. Although wage and employment growth have moderated and business confidence has weakened, heightened global uncertainty warrants caution in considering further policy rate cuts, particularly as the recent increase in domestic food prices may not prove transitory. Should inflationary pressures persist, a tightening of the policy stance may be warranted.

    Exchange rate flexibility, opportunistic reserve accumulation, and monetary policy communication should be enhanced. Efforts to rebuild reserve buffers should be sustained while allowing the exchange rate to act as a shock absorber. The NBG should continue to strengthen monetary policy transmission, effectiveness, transparency, and credibility. Communication of monetary policy should be strengthened by clarifying the NBG’s assessment of the balance of risks and how this informs policy decisions.

    Strengthening NBG governance and independence remains central to macroeconomic stability. The filling of the board vacancies and the governor position is a welcome first step. Efforts should now focus on amending the NBG law to: (i) ensure a non-executive majority on the NBG’s oversight board, (ii) limit the possibility of discretionary financial transfers to the government, and (iii) clarify and further strengthen [the NBG succession framework and] board member qualification criteria. Moving from a presidential to a collegial decision-making model is also advisable.

    Fiscal policy

    With public debt at sound levels, maintaining a broadly neutral policy stance over the medium term is appropriate. A fiscal deficit of 2.3–2.5 percent of GDP would help stabilize the debt-to-GDP ratio near its current level. The shift toward domestic debt should proceed carefully, avoiding crowding out the private sector and monitoring borrowing costs and risks linked to a stronger sovereign-bank nexus. While good progress has been made, further tax policy and administration reforms that broaden the tax base and streamline tax expenditures—supported by a stronger medium-term revenue strategy—are needed to secure revenue for spending priorities.  

    There is considerable scope to enhance spending efficiency and further strengthen public investment management (PIM). Despite elevated levels of public investment, infrastructure quality remains below that of many emerging market peers, highlighting the need for more effective implementation of PIM processes, building on recent years’ improvements. Spending on education and health could be more efficient, to achieve better outcomes at similar expenditure levels. Spending reviews could help in this regard. Social assistance is relatively generous but targeting could be improved to prioritize the most vulnerable households.

    Sustained efforts are needed to manage fiscal risks and increase fiscal transparency. The authorities have taken significant steps in enhancing the Ministry of Finance’s financial oversight of state-owned enterprises (SOEs), and maintaining this momentum will be important. Efforts should focus on legislation that would separate the state’s shareholder, regulatory, and policy functions beyond the energy sector, where implementation has recently taken place, and strengthen the corporate governance of SOEs. The authorities should address gaps in the coverage of fiscal reporting, particularly from non-market SOEs with significant fiscal risks.

    Financial sector

    Continued vigilance and reforms will help address long-standing and emerging financial sector risks. The banking system remains well capitalized and profitable, and the implementation of the IMF’s 2021 Financial Sector Assessment Program (FSAP) recommendations is nearly complete. Key priorities going forward include enhancing the consolidated supervision of financial groups—particularly non-bank subsidiaries and cross-border activities, operationalizing a fully-fledged bank resolution framework, and improving competition in financial services. The NBG continues to implement its long-term dedollarization policy to support financial stability, and recently raised the FX loan threshold for unhedged borrowers further to GEL 750,000. Nevertheless, the share of unhedged foreign currency bank loans is still high, and the deposit dedollarization trend was interrupted amid heightened political uncertainty. Banks—especially smaller ones—have faced lari funding pressures, and the cost of funding has risen, potentially weighing on profitability. Consumer loans have grown rapidly, while riskier nonbank financing—including foreign currency bond issuances by real estate developers—has increased considerably. Neither risk is assessed to be systemic at this stage, but continued close monitoring is warranted.

    Structural reforms

    Structural reforms are needed to sustain high growth and make it more inclusive and job rich. Potential growth remains constrained by structurally high long-term and youth unemployment, low educational attainment, infrastructure bottlenecks in the transport and logistics sectors, and low sectoral productivity, especially in agriculture. An aging population, outward migration, and informality pose challenges for the labor market, along with persistent income inequality. Better targeting of agricultural support, improving teacher quality, and expanding vocational training would help raise rural labor force participation and facilitate the integration of workers into the formal economy. Remittances and return migration could be better leveraged to boost productive investments and knowledge transfers from returning migrants. Continued investment in transport and logistics infrastructure, as well as coordination with regional partners to harmonize fees and procedures, are important to support long-term competitiveness. Finally, the authorities should enhance judicial independence and strengthen the autonomy of the Anti-Corruption Bureau to improve the business environment.

    The mission team would like to thank the Georgian authorities and other counterparts for their close collaboration, candid and informative discussions, and warm hospitality.

    Table 1. Georgia: Selected Economic and Financial Indicators, 2024–28

     

     

    2024

    2025

    2026

    2027

    2028

     

    Actual Projections

    National accounts and prices

    (annual percentage change; unless otherwise indicated)

    Real GDP

    9.4

    7.2

    5.3

    5.0

    5.0

    Nominal GDP (in billions of laris)

    91.9

    102.5

    111.7

    121.5

    131.9

    Nominal GDP (in billions of U.S. dollars)

    33.8

    36.7

    39.2

    41.4

    43.6

    GDP per capita (in thousands of U.S. dollars)

    9.1

    9.9

    10.6

    11.2

    11.8

    GDP deflator, period average

    3.8

    4.1

    3.5

    3.5

    3.5

    CPI, period average

    1.1

    3.4

    3.1

    3.0

    3.0

    CPI, end-of-period

    1.9

    3.6

    3.0

    3.0

    3.0

    Consolidated government operations

    (in percent of GDP)

    Revenue and grants

    28.0

    27.7

    27.8

    27.7

    27.6

    o.w. Tax revenue

    25.3

    25.0

    25.6

    25.6

    25.6

    Total Expenditure

    30.3

    30.0

    30.1

    29.9

    29.8

    Current expenditures

    22.5

    22.6

    22.5

    22.5

    22.5

    Net acquisition of nonfinancial assets

    7.7

    7.4

    7.5

    7.5

    7.3

    Net lending/borrowing (GFSM 2001)

    -2.3

    -2.3

    -2.3

    -2.3

    -2.2

    Augmented net lending/borrowing 1/

    -2.4

    -2.4

    -2.4

    -2.4

    -2.3

    Public debt

    36.1

    34.7

    34.1

    34.3

    34.5

      o.w. Foreign-currency denominated

    25.2

    23.1

    22.0

    21.7

    20.9

    Money and credit

    (annual percentage change; unless otherwise indicated)

    Credit to the private sector

    18.5

    13.7

    9.0

    8.7

    8.6

    In constant exchange rate

    17.0

    15.5

    8.5

    7.4

    7.3

    Broad money

    14.5

    13.3

    11.5

    11.3

    11.2

    Excluding FX deposits

    10.4

    13.7

    11.9

    11.7

    11.6

    Deposit dollarization (in percent of total)

    52.7

    52.1

    51.9

    51.7

    51.4

    Credit dollarization (in percent of total)

    42.9

    42.5

    42.1

    41.7

    41.3

    Credit to GDP (in percent) 2/

    66.0

    67.4

    67.4

    67.4

    67.4

    External sector

    (in percent of GDP; unless otherwise indicated)

    Current account balance (in billions of US$)

    -1.5

    -1.6

    -1.8

    -2.0

    -2.1

    Current account balance

    -4.4

    -4.4

    -4.6

    -4.8

    -4.8

    Trade balance

    -19.2

    -18.9

    -19.1

    -19.2

    -19.3

    Terms of trade (percent change)

    -2.8

    -0.2

    0.1

    -0.3

    0.5

    Gross international reserves (in billions of US$)

    4.4

    4.7

    4.9

    5.5

    6.2

    In percent of IMF ARA metric 3/

    79.6

    81.1

    82.4

    88.0

    95.5

    In months of next year’s imports

    2.7

    2.6

    2.6

    2.7

    2.9

    Gross external debt

    66.8

    62.4

    58.5

    55.9

    53.0

     Sources: Georgian authorities; and Fund staff estimates.

    1/ Augmented Net lending / borrowing = Net lending / borrowing – Budget lending.

    2/ Banking sector credit to the private sector.

    3/ IMF’s adequacy metric for assessing reserves in emerging markets.
    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Mayada Ghazala

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/06/04/06042025-mcs-georgia-staff-concluding-statement-of-the-2025-article-iv-mission

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • India Wins Presidency of International Institute of Administrative Sciences

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India won the Presidency of the International Institute of Administrative Sciences (IIAS) on Tuesday, 3 June 2025. The International Institute of Administrative Sciences, a notable global institution, is a federation of 31 member countries, 20 national sections, and 15 academic research centres jointly collaborating on scientific research in public administration.

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi had nominated the Indian candidate, Secretary DARPG (Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances), Shri V. Srinivas, for the 2025-2028 Presidency of IIAS in November 2024. Following Presidency hearings in February 2025, the candidacies of India, South Africa, and Austria were forwarded to the IIAS General Body. Subsequently, South Africa withdrew its candidacy in favour of India in May 2025.

    The election between India and Austria was held on 3 June 2025, in which 141 votes were polled. India secured 87 votes (61.7 per cent of the vote), while Austria received 54 votes (38.3 per cent of the vote). India’s candidacy received widespread support from across the membership.

    This election marks two significant firsts in the 100-year history of IIAS: it was the first time the President was elected by a ballot process, and it is the first time India has secured this historic mandate.

    The Indian Presidency of the institution will seek to bridge the North-South Divide with a focus on unity and inclusivity. It will also take forward Prime Minister Modi’s vision for “Maximum Governance – Minimum Government,” documenting next-generation administrative reforms with a focus on the digital empowerment of citizens and the digital transformation of institutions.

    India has been a member of IIAS since 1998. Other key members of IIAS include Japan, China, Germany, Italy, Korea, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Switzerland, Mexico, Spain, Qatar, Morocco, and Indonesia.

    While the IIAS is not a formally affiliated body of the United Nations, it actively engages with the UN’s work in public administration through the UN’s Committee of Experts on Public Administration (CEPA) and the UN Public Administration Network (UNPAN).

  • US-backed Gaza aid group halts distribution, UN to vote on ceasefire demand

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The U.S.-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation will not give out any aid on Wednesday as it presses Israel to boost civilian safety beyond the perimeter of its distribution sites, a day after dozens of Palestinians seeking aid were killed.

    The GHF said it has asked the Israeli military to “guide foot traffic in a way that minimizes confusion or escalation risks” near military perimeters; develop clearer guidance for civilians; and enhance training to support civilian safety.

    “Our top priority remains ensuring the safety and dignity of civilians receiving aid,” said a GHF spokesperson. An Israeli military spokesperson warned civilians against moving in areas leading to GHF sites on Wednesday, deeming them “combat zones”.

    The Israeli military said on Tuesday that it opened fire on a group of people it viewed as a threat near a GHF food aid distribution site. The International Committee of the Red Cross said at least 27 people were killed and dozens injured. The GHF said the incident was “well beyond” its site.

    Palestinians who collected food GHF boxes on Tuesday described scenes of pandemonium, with no-one overseeing the handover of supplies or checking IDs, as crowds jostled for aid.

    The U.N. Security Council is also set to vote on Wednesday on a demand for a ceasefire between Israel and Palestinian militants Hamas and humanitarian access across Gaza, where aid has trickled amid chaos and bloodshed after Israel lifted an 11-week blockade on the enclave where famine looms.

    “It is unacceptable. Civilians are risking – and in several instances losing – their lives just trying to get food,” U.N. spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said on Tuesday, adding that the aid distribution model backed by the U.S. and Israel was “all a recipe for disaster, which is exactly what is going on.”

    That model is run by the newly created GHF, which started operations in the enclave a week ago and said on Tuesday that it has given out more than seven million meals from three so-called secure distribution sites. GHF Interim Executive Director John Acree urged humanitarians in Gaza: “Work with us and we will get your aid delivered to those who are depending on it.”

    U.S. VETO?

    The U.N. and other aid groups have refused to work with the GHF because they say it is not neutral and the distribution model militarizes aid. GHF uses private U.S. security and logistics companies to get aid to the distribution sites.

    It is the latest in a string of efforts to get more aid into the enclave, where experts say the entire population of some 2.1 million people is at risk of famine. Jordan last year spearheaded humanitarian air drops, while the U.S. briefly installed a floating aid pier, but it was beset by challenges.

    The U.N. has long-blamed Israel and lawlessness in the enclave for hindering the delivery of aid into Gaza and its distribution throughout the war zone. Israel accuses Hamas of stealing aid, which the group denies.

    Israel said on Tuesday that three of its soldiers had been killed in fighting in northern Gaza. Gaza health officials said at least 18 more Palestinians were killed in other military strikes in the territory on Tuesday. Reuters could not independently verify the reports in northern and southern Gaza.

    The 10 elected members of the U.N. Security Council have asked for the 15-member body to vote on Wednesday on a draft resolution that demands “an immediate, unconditional and permanent ceasefire in Gaza respected by all parties.”

    The draft text, seen by Reuters, also demands the release of all hostages held by Hamas and others, and the immediate lifting of all restrictions on the entry of aid and its safe and unhindered distribution, including by the U.N., throughout Gaza.

    “The time to act has already passed,” Slovenia’s U.N. Ambassador Samuel Zbogar told Reuters. “It is our historical responsibility not to remain silent.”

    As U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration tries to broker a ceasefire in Gaza, it was not immediately clear if Washington would veto the draft text. A spokesperson for the U.S. mission to the U.N. said: “We cannot preview our actions currently under consideration.”

    A resolution needs nine votes in favor and no vetoes by the permanent members – the United States, Russia, China, Britain or France – to pass.

    The war in Gaza has raged since 2023 after Hamas militants killed 1,200 people in Israel in an October 7 attack and took some 250 hostages back to the enclave, according to Israeli tallies.

    Israel responded with a military campaign that has killed over 54,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza health authorities, which do not distinguish between fighters and non-combatants.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI Security: UPDATED: Fourth man arrested in connection with arsons in north London

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A fourth man has been arrested as part of an investigation into a series of fires in north London.

    A 48-year-old man [D] was arrested on Monday, 2 June at London Stansted Airport. He was initially stopped by officers under schedule 7 of the Terrorism Act, 2000, before being arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit arson with intent to endanger life.

    The arrest is connected to an investigation into a vehicle fire in NW5 on Thursday, 8 May, a fire at the entrance of a property in N7 on Sunday, 11 May and a fire at a residential address in NW5 in the early hours of Monday, 12 May.

    The man [D] has been taken to a London police station, before being released on bail to a date in July.

    The Crown Prosecution Service previously authorised charged against three other men:

    • Roman Lavrynovych 21 (06.02.04), of Sydenham, a Ukrainian national [A] was charged with three counts of arson with intent to endanger life.
    • Stanislav Carpiuc, 26 (15.07.98) of Romford, a Romanian national, [B] was charged with conspiracy to commit arson with intent to endanger life.
    • Petro Pochynok 34 (25.07.90) of north London, a Ukrainian national [C] was charged with conspiracy to commit arson with intent to endanger life.

    The three men [A-C] have been remanded in custody to next appear at the Old Bailey on Friday, 6 June.

    The investigation is being led by officers from the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command due to the fires all having connections to a high-profile public figure. Anyone with information that could assist the investigation should call police on 101 quoting CAD 441/12 May. Enquiries remain ongoing.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Mauritius charts bold new course as government targets investment, growth, and global appeal

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

    PORT LOUIS, Mauritius, June 4, 2025/APO Group/ —

    With a new government at the helm, Mauritius is setting its sights on economic revival and sustainable growth. As the island nation gears up for the high-profile API Mauritius & Indian Oceans Property Investment Forum, industry experts are calling for bold reforms and streamlined investments.

    Mauritius is at a pivotal moment as the newly elected government embarks on a mission to stabilise the country’s economy and chart a renewed path for sustainable growth.

    The government has three fiscal challenges: it spends more than it earns in trade, in its budget, and in payments with other countries. To fix these problems, the new Mauritian government aims to create new sources of economic growth and attract important investments from foreign players, especially in real estate.

    Mauritius’ economic outlook and investment opportunities will be a central focus at the third instalment of the annual API Mauritius & Indian Oceans Property Investment Forum, which will take place on 26 June at the InterContinental Hotel in Mauritius. The forum is set to expand on its two previous successes and provide more insights about investment opportunities in Mauritius.

    The government’s emphasis on infrastructure development, climate resilience, and supportive fiscal policies positions Mauritius as an increasingly attractive destination for international capital. Industry players highlight that Mauritius’ new government has committed to a path of sustainable growth and transparency, which reinforces investor confidence.

    Kevin Teeroovengadum, board and advisor to various listed and non-listed companies in Mauritius and in Africa including South Africa, says the government faces the daunting task of stabilising the economy and averting a downgrade to junk status by credit rating agencies.

    “Mauritius urgently needs a bold, forward-looking strategic plan — one that mirrors the ambition and clarity of vision seen in Dubai’s transformation. The government must set clear targets, not only in terms of the number of foreigners it aims to attract but also the profile and quality of these individuals and, a focused strategy is essential to position Mauritius as a premier destination to live, work, and retire” says Teeroovengadum.

    As a board director and advisor with over 25 years of hands-on experience across the African continent, Teeroovengadum brings deep expertise in deal-making in sectors such as real estate, hospitality, telecoms, and others, which puts him in good stead regarding the drivers of investments.

    Mauritius boasts several unique advantages, including a stable political environment, a safe and appealing lifestyle, and a resilient tourism sector.  However, experts stress that unlocking the island’s full economic potential will require greater openness to foreign developers and institutional investors, especially in emerging asset classes such as green buildings, logistics hubs, and affordable housing. A clear regulatory framework, streamlined processes, and robust public-private collaboration are seen as essential to ensuring that development aligns with national priorities and delivers long-term value to the local economy.

    Wayne Godwin, CEO of JLL Africa, says Mauritius has hallmarks that are already beneficiary to its potential in the African continent.

    “The ease of doing business, sophisticated local capital markets, and low taxation make Mauritius an attractive destination for foreign direct investment, but there are still barriers that can be removed, particularly around the sale of directly held real estate, which incurs higher transfer taxes and a lengthy approval process.

    “As JLL, we expect to see more focus from international investors into Mauritius in the next few years, particularly from the Middle East and India, while the trend of Mauritian investors expanding into Africa will likely continue on a similar path,” says Godwin, who leads JLL’s business in Africa that has exposure to some of the fastest-growing cities in the continent.

    Godwin also leads JLL’s Hotels & Hospitality Group division in Africa, the largest and most successful hotel advisor and broker in Africa.  This places him in the best position to opine about investment opportunities in Mauritius’s hospitality and tourism industry at the upcoming API Mauritius & Indian Oceans Property Investment Forum.

    In the face of rising climate risks, financial innovation, and climate-resilient public-private partnerships are also taking center stage. The use of green building standards, real estate investment trusts, and green bonds is gaining momentum, with early issuances by EnVolt and Cim Finance demonstrating the potential to mobilise green capital at scale.  EnVolt and Cim Finance have emerged as early leaders in the green finance movement in Mauritius, playing a pivotal role in mobilising capital for sustainable development and climate-resilient infrastructure.

    Recycling capital from mature assets into eco-certified, resilient developments is fast becoming essential for long-term value creation in coastal tourism and mixed-use projects.

    But beyond sustainability, there is a pressing need to ensure that development also delivers inclusive economic opportunity.

    “Mauritius has a strong foundation in residential real estate and hospitality, but the time has come to evolve and diversify the development model. We must channel foreign investment into industries that create meaningful employment for our skilled, bilingual youth—sectors like advanced manufacturing, tech-enabled services, and sustainable construction. Real estate remains central to this vision, not as an end in itself, but as a platform to support innovation, green industry, and a more inclusive economy. The opportunity is to build an economy where young Mauritians can thrive at home—not feel compelled to leave in search of better prospects”, says Bernard Forster, Managing Director, Elevante Consulting, part of the Elevante Group. Elevante is a leading independent real estate advisory and property services firm in Mauritius and the Indian Ocean region, known for its deep market insight, strategic guidance, and regional transaction expertise across all asset classes.

    As Mauritius prepares to unveil its national budget in June, all eyes are on the government’s roadmap for economic recovery and long-term growth. The coming months will be critical in shaping a more resilient, competitive and sustainable future – positioning the country as a global destination for investment, innovation, and climate-smart development.

    The 3rd annual API Mauritius & Indian Ocean’s Property Investment Forum with the theme of ‘A resilient new dawn’ will take place on Thursday, 26 June 2025 at the InterContinental Hotel, Mauritius. Fror more information and to register visit https://apo-opa.co/43AgyUY

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: DASA-Funded Tech ‘DUCHESS’ Takes the Crown in AI Interviewing

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Case study

    DASA-Funded Tech ‘DUCHESS’ Takes the Crown in AI Interviewing

    DASA funding helped DIEM Analytics develop a robust tool for interviewing military personnel at scale

    • DUCHESS was developed before the generative AI boom, giving DIEM Analytics strategic advantage in the evolving AI landscape
    • Through multiple DASA and Dstl funded projects, the innovation evolved from an automated feedback collection tool to a sophisticated interviewing system
    • DIEM Analytics has successfully transitioned from defence consulting to creating cutting-edge AI solutions with international impact

    From Interview Challenge to AI Innovation

    Obtaining lessons learned and feedback is a vital aspect of any military activity. However, this can be a time-consuming process if done through traditional one-on-one in-person interviews.

    For instance, when naval vessels return from a deployment, only senior officers might be interviewed about lessons learned, leaving hundreds of valuable perspectives lost. But what if there was a way to capture insights from everyone on board, without the resource burden of conducting hundreds of individual interviews?

    DIEM Analytics’ DUCHESS system, developed with DASA funding, can do just that, transforming how defence organisations learn from experience.

    DASA’s Early Investment in DIEM Analytics

    Founded in 2011 as a consulting company by former Ministry of Defence staff, DIEM Analytics set out to explore whether AI could conduct the kind of dynamic interviews that normally required human expertise. Not just static surveys, but conversations that could listen to responses and generate intelligent follow-up questions and gather rich insights at scale.

    Through DASA’s “People in Defence” Themed Competition in 2019, DIEM Analytics secured their first round of funding to develop the first iteration of DUCHESS, an automated interviewing tool – years before ChatGPT and the generative AI boom.

    “We were a bit ahead of our time,” notes Dr. Jaya-Ratnam. “When we first started, talking to AI was quite an unusual experience. Now people are more used to talking to a device, and there’s a bit more understanding in the market that these things are actually really useful.”

    How DUCHESS Works

    DUCHESS uses natural language processing (NLP) technology and carefully designed defence-based interview methodology. The system begins with a set of initial open-ended questions tailored to the specific feedback scenario – whether its lessons learned from a deployment or insights during organisational transformation.

    What sets DUCHESS apart from simple surveys is its ability to analyse responses in real-time and generate relevant follow-up questions, mimicking the natural flow of a human interview.  The dynamic follow-on questions have been proven to generate an average of 63% more data than just using a static question set.

    DUCHESS in action

    Evolution Through Testing and Adaptation

    DUCHESS’ journey wasn’t straightforward. Phase 1 funding enabled the team to test their concept at scale with Royal Navy sailors returning from deployment. The positive response from this project led to phase 2 funding, where the system was deployed in a headquarters undergoing transformation.

    “For phase 2, we improved the questioning, and we enhanced the visualisations as well,” explains Dr. Jaya-Ratnam. “How we display interview data is really important, and the different use cases mean that the visual analysis is unique for each of these.”

    The system can identify key themes, sentiment patterns, and causal relationships between interview answers. These insights are then presented through customisable visualisations, allowing decision-makers to quickly grasp complex feedback from hundreds of interviews.

    Further Development and International Adoption

    When COVID-19 hit in 2020, just as phase 2 concluded, the team faced a critical barrier; their system relied on people physically sitting in front of a laptop to conduct the interview. However, with defence personnel at the time working remotely, they needed a new approach.

    “We made the decision to privately fund a cloud-hosted version,” says Dr. Jaya-Ratnam. The team invested approximately £50,000 of their own money and significant effort to adapt their technology to the new reality.

    The investment paid off. Despite being a micro-SME with just four core team members, DIEM Analytics began securing international contracts.

    “The first commercial user was the NATO Joint Analysis Lesson Learnt Centre,” says Dr. Jaya-Ratnam. “After, we secured a contract with the Canadian Air Warfare Centre which became a regular user of DUCHESS.”

    Other users included the Royal Navy, the National Physical Laboratory, and the UK’s Naval Engineering Science and Technology Centre (NEST). The Maritime Warfare Centre also requested a version for offline usage, broadening its applications further.

    In recognition of their innovation, the Royal Navy nominated DIEM for AI Innovation of the Year with Digital Leaders for two consecutive years, with the company placing in the top three in the second year (2021). 

    Embracing the AI Revolution

    When OpenAI and ChatGPT transformed the AI landscape in 2022, DIEM Analytics was perfectly positioned to capitalise on the breakthrough. Having already developed their own interview technology, they understood both the potential and limitations of these new tools.

    “We built our Version 2 of DUCHESS on OpenAI,” explains Dr. Jaya-Ratnam. “Version 2 is more conversational and engaging for users, and slicker in its work.”

    The team designed their system to be compatible with other large language models (LLMs) giving them flexibility for future AI developments. “We have built the system so you could switch in other LLMs, so we’re not completely wedded to OpenAI,” notes Dr. Jaya-Ratnam.

    Beyond Duchess: A Portfolio of Innovation

    DASA’s support for DIEM Analytics extends beyond DUCHESS. MaLFIE (Machine Learning Fuzzy-logic Integration for Explainability) was developed to address a Navy challenge from a 2018 hackathon, to not only detect anomalies at sea but explain and prioritise them. With DASA funding, MaLFIE went from concept to implementation at the National Maritime Information Centre within two years.

    Another innovation, Red Mirror, submitted through a Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) competition Intelligent Ship, received three rounds of funding. This technology predicts what an enemy asset will do next, using low-shot learning (when algorithms learn to make accurate predictions with limited training data) to rapidly build a mirror of adversary AI. To support this development, DIEM Analytics created their own drone simulation system called DR SO.

    “We have developed a sophisticated app that is similar to a commercial game,” says Dr. Jaya-Ratnam of DR SO. This technology recently secured a contract with a major prime contractor.

    A third DASA-funded innovation, Red’s Shoes, is an algorithm originally developed for the hedge fund industry that has been adapted to predict adversary commander behaviour. After proving the concept in a NATO exercise, it has been deployed with NATO’s SHAPE Team.

    The Future: Scaling Innovation

    Today, DIEM Analytics is positioning itself for broader commercial success. “We are working out how we will push DUCHESS as a commercial offering at scale,” explains Dr. Jaya-Ratnam. “We want to make it a purely SaaS offering.”

    The team is conducting market testing to identify the most promising sectors, including construction health and safety, venture capital interview processes, and pharmaceuticals.

    With DASA’s initial investment serving as the foundation supporting several innovative technologies, DIEM Analytics has transformed from a defence consultancy into a unique AI company with international reach. Their story demonstrates how targeted government support for early-stage technologies can position UK companies for success in the rapidly evolving AI landscape before that landscape was fully visible.

    “DASA funding gave us the ability to establish reference use-cases and mature the underlying technology. This became a solid foundation on which to invest our own money to create a commercial application that UK and international defence organisations, as well as commercial organisations, have used. We now have DUCHESS version 2.0 and are moving into sectors such as commercial maritime and wellbeing. Thanks to COVID our growth was slower than we wanted, but DASA gave us the leg up we needed.”

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: 113th International Labour Conference. UK Statement on Myanmar

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    113th International Labour Conference. UK Statement on Myanmar

    Joint Statement on Myanmar at the General Affairs Committee at ILC 113. Delivered by the UK’s Permanent Representative to the WTO and UN, Simon Manley.

    Chair, I have the honour of speaking on behalf of Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and my own country, the United Kingdom.

    We would firstly like to thank the ILO Office for their work on this issue, and the work of the ILO Liaison Office and its staff in Yangon who continue to work under extremely difficult circumstances.

    We also wish to extend our deepest sympathies to the people of Myanmar, who have suffered yet more hardship as a result of the terrible earthquake in March, which has seen large-scale destruction of homes, businesses and places of worship, and most sadly, the tragic loss of lives.

    Chair, at this International Labour Conference, we meet to discuss the Myanmar military regime’s ongoing intransigence in observing Convention 87 on the Freedom of Association and Protection of the Right to Organise, and Convention 29 on Forced Labour. Since the Commission of Inquiry for Myanmar was established in 2023, we have heard grave reports of continued repression of trade unions and labour rights, including through active suppression of unionization efforts, and the surveillance, harassment and dismissal of those engaging in union activities.

    Trade Unionists continue to be imprisoned, including the General Secretary of the Myanmar Industries Craft and Services Trade Union Federation, Thet Hnin Aung, whom we and the ILO Office have continued to call for the release of.

    We are also concerned by reports of continued systematic exploitation of civilians for different types of forced labour, including as porters, guides, and human shields, as well as for the cultivation, construction and maintenance of military camps, or for the provision of transport, accommodation, food and domestic work.

    Despite our calls for the Myanmar military regime to urgently address these issues, the regime has failed to address the Commission’s recommendations and continues to engage in far-reaching violations and abuses of labour laws and abuses of human rights, as laid out in ILO reporting and other UN-body findings.

    Back in March at the Governing Body we agreed, by consensus, to adopt measures in line with Article 33 of the ILO Constitution, against Myanmar. We continue to support these measures, including the establishment of a monitoring mechanism to ensure Myanmar’s compliance with the Commission’s recommendations. It is important the ILO continues to closely monitor developments in Myanmar, including the impact of recent events on workers’ incomes and livelihoods.

    Chair, we continue to believe that such measures should not exacerbate the dire humanitarian and economic situation in Myanmar, only made worse by the recent earthquake. Nor should Article 33 measures impact workers in Myanmar, who continue to suffer much hardship. International trade and business have a key role to play; businesses currently operating in Myanmar should be able to continue whilst respecting responsible business practices and human rights.

    The UK, Australia, Canada and New Zealand are committed to working with the ILO and its constituents to secure compliance by the Myanmar regime with the Commission of Inquiry’s recommendations. We call on all constituents to support the adoption of the draft resolution and ensure that the military regime urgently addresses the grave issues as laid out.

    Chair, we support the draft resolution.

    Thank you.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Supporting small food and drink businesses

    Source: Scottish Government

    Funding to promote local and regional products.

    Food and drink festivals, farmers markets and culinary masterclasses are just some of the projects from across Scotland set to benefit from grants of up to £5,000.

    The latest round of the Regional Food Fund will support 15 local and collaborative projects helping small food businesses to thrive while promoting local produce. 

    Scotland Food & Drink manages the fund aimed at elevating the food and drink industry, enhancing food tourism and showcasing the best the country has to offer. 

    Rural Affairs Secretary Mairi Gougeon said:  

    “Scotland’s food and drink industry is worth £15 billion to the economy; it is one of the country’s largest employers and is already well-recognised and established across the world.   

    “Engaging with regional markets is vital in achieving our industry strategy and growth ambitions for the next ten years. That’s why, through initiatives like the Regional Food Fund, we are providing much-needed support to small projects to showcase the best products that their regions have to offer.  

    “A wonderful range of projects will be supported through this round, including foraging experiences and masterclasses at Isle of Bute food and drink festival, learning about the turnip being a climate-friendly crop in Fife, or improving their culinary skills at Huntly Hairst’s celebration of local food and drink. I look forward to hearing how each of these exciting projects develops.” 

    Scotland Food & Drink Head of Regional Food Fiona Richmond said: 

    “We are pleased to be able to support 15 more collaborative food and drink projects around the country with the latest round of the Regional Food Fund.

    “Our judging panel were impressed with the level of commitment and creativity shown by the successful applicants, who represent the true passion that makes our vibrant food and drink industry so special.

    “We know that local food and drink initiatives play a vital role in the continued growth of Scotland’s food, drink, and tourism sectors. Congratulations to this year’s recipients – we can’t wait to see the projects we have supported come to life.”

    Background 

    Regional Food Fund | Scotland Food & Drink (foodanddrink.scot) 

    Since 2021, the Scottish Government has provided over £500,000 to the Fund, which has supported 104 collaborative projects, varying from creative artwork to increase customer numbers, new equipment and regional marketing campaigns. 

    The successful applicants in this round are: 

    Huntly Hairst, Aberdeenshire. Celebration of local food and drink  £2,975   

    Established 2012, this year will be a collaboration’ theme, producers will prepare meal plans and menus to guide visitors around the stalls, gathering fresh ingredients, listening to masterclasses and demonstrations. Funding will support production of campaign materials and promotion.  

    Angus Farmers Market, Angus. Appetite for Angus                                £3,000  

    The project aims to rescue and revitalise the farmers’ markets in Forfar, Carnoustie and Montrose which are due to close in their current form. Markets provide a vital source of income in the area. Funds will contribute to market rebrand. 

    Argyll and the Isles. Virtual Farmers’ Market                                           £5,000  

    Creation of innovative digital farmers’ market to help local producers increase their sales and show their contribution to the local economy, both to visitors and locals. This project will off support to rural businesses struggling with rising costs with funds going towards the creation of assets and campaign delivery. 

    Alloa, Clackmannanshire. First Sound Bites Festival 2026                     £5,000  

    Collaborative, community festival to promote sales of local produce. Funding will help expand food and drink offer following successful trial last year and will contribute to marketing material and stall hire. 

    Dumfries and Galloway. Nurture from Nature – Local Food Outlet £5,000  

    Project aims to create a permanent retail outlet for local producers on this working farm. Funding will contribute to development of marketing and promotional costs. 

    Fife. Food from Fife – Retail Display Project                                            £5,000 

    Following the successful trial in November 2024 by regional food group, Food From Fife, roll out of more branded units and point of sale material to a wider range of Fife food and drink businesses, providing dedicated in-store marketing and sales space. 

    North Fife and Tayside. From Tree to Glass                                             £4,500 

    Delivered by Bioregioning Tayside, creation of producer group to promote and grow the area’s craft cider and perry production, preserving its apple, pear and plum heritage.  Funds will support delivery of business to business, consumer and education events and materials. 

    Fife. Turning the Tide for Turnip Revolution                                           £5,000 

    led by East of Scotland Growers will deliver a series of partnerships with chefs, retailers and communities to raise awareness and sales of turnip as a modern, delicious, climate-friendly crop. Funding will contribute to branding, marketing and chef costs. 

    Forth Valley. Forth Valley Five                                                                  £4,993  

    Led by regional food group, Forth Valley Food & Drink, this collaborative project will encourage restaurants, cafes, retailers and locals to add feature five local products on menus; stock five new local products on shelves and add five local products to shopping baskets. Funds will support creation of marketing materials and delivery. 

    Isle of Bute. Isle of Bute Food & Drink Festival                                       £3,240 

    Three-day celebration of the island’s food and drink via producer stalls; masterclasses; foraging and other experiences, delivered by regional food group, Bute Kitchen, in collaboration with other organisations and businesses.  

    Love Loch Lomond – A Taste of Loch Lomond Marketing Campaign    £4,500  

    Marketing campaign to promote a new publication, ‘A Taste of Loch Lomond: Stories & Flavours from the Bonnie Banks’, that showcases stories, products and recipes from the area’s local producers and hospitality businesses. Funding will support campaign material production and promotion. 

    Orkney. Orkney Food and Drink Festival                                                 £5,000  

    Delivered by regional food group, Orkney Food and Drink, this two-day festival will bring together the island’s businesses to sell their products to visitors and locals. Funding will support venue and promotional costs. 

    Outer Hebrides. Hebridean Fine Food & Drink Festival                          £3,000 

    Regional food group, Eat Drink Hebrides, will deliver branding and marketing assets for two food fairs and two networking events including a Food and Drink Awards, increasing sales, promoting local businesses and supporting local supply chains. 

    Fine Cheesemakers of Scotland – Promoting Scottish Artisanal Cheese £5,000  

    Project from this collaborative artisan cheese network to improve digital presence and tell a more compelling and cohesive story to increase sales and promotion. Funding will support professional content rebrand including video/photos/Instagram and website. 

    The Scottish Cider Festival                                                                      £5,000  

    New annual event to promote Scotland’s emerging cider industry, delivered by Fife-based cider pioneers, Aeble. Hosted in Edinburgh, it will provide a platform for the country’s producers to sell their craft products, partnering with other local food and drink producers. Funding will support venue, branding and marketing costs. 

    TOTAL          15 Applicants         TOTAL GRANT CLAIM FUNDING     £66,208   

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Biggest ever investment in city region local transport as Chancellor vows the ‘Renewal of Britain’

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    Press release

    Biggest ever investment in city region local transport as Chancellor vows the ‘Renewal of Britain’

    Working people in cities and towns from Sunderland to Solihull will benefit from the biggest investment in regional transport, as every part of the country prospers under Plan for Change.

    • Chancellor more than doubles investment in local transport in England’s city regions, delivering the biggest ever investment over the next five years.

    • Announcement comes ahead of next week’s Spending Review focused on investment in the Government’s priorities, in Britain’s renewal, and in what matters to you in the place that you live.

    Working people across the North, Midlands and the South West will benefit from the biggest ever investment in buses, trams and local train infrastructure in city regions as the Chancellor today promises the renewal of Britain to make all parts of the country better off.

    In a speech in Greater Manchester, Reeves is expected to say that “a Britain that is better off cannot rely on a handful of places forging ahead of the rest of the country,” adding that the “result of such thinking has been growth created in too few places, felt by too few people and wide gaps between regions, and between our cities and towns.”

    Reeves will say the Spending Review next week will take different choices, with investment in a “new economic model – driven by investment in all parts of the country, not just a few.”

    She will unveil the first investment announcements from the Spending Review, with £15.6 billion of funding for local transport projects in England’s city regions – including South Yorkshire, the North East, the East Midlands and Tees Valley. The funding – a more than double real-terms increase in capital spending on local transport in city regions by 2029/30 compared with 2024/25 – will empower local leaders to invest in transport projects that will make a difference to their local area.

    Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander, said:

    Today marks a watershed moment on our journey to improving transport across the North and Midlands – opening up access to jobs, growing the economy and driving up quality of life as we deliver our Plan for Change.

    For too long, people in the North and Midlands have been locked out of the investment they deserve. With £15.6bn of Government investment, we’re giving local leaders the means to drive cities, towns and communities forward, investing in Britain’s renewal so you and your family are better off.

    This long-overdue investment outside of London and the South East will see projects like the Metro extension linking Washington to Newcastle and Sunderland and the renewal South Yorkshire’s tram network linking employment and housing areas in Sheffield and Rotheram get off the ground – creating jobs, better commutes, bigger labour markets and more opportunity.

    The game-changing funding comes ahead of next week’s Spending Review when the Chancellor will set out how this government is investing in the country’s future and the priorities of working people to make every part of Britain better off.

    The five-year settlements will mean the Mayor of West Yorkshire can commit to delivering the West Yorkshire Mass Transit, which will be fully integrated with cycling, walking, bus and rail, making journeys quicker, more accessible and more reliable across the region.

    The funding will also mean the Mayor of the West Midlands can build a metro extension to Birmingham’s sports quarter, making a start on his ambitions to deliver mass transit from East Birmingham to North Solihull.

    It will also allow the Mayor of Greater Manchester to transform the Metrolink tram network, with new stops in Bury, north Manchester and Oldham and a Metrolink extension to Stockport town centre.

    The Chancellor is also expected to confirm “a step change in how government approaches and evaluates the case for investing in our regions” following a review of the Treasury’s Green Book and how it is used, “to make sure that this government gives every region a fair hearing when it comes to investments”.

    The full conclusions of the Green Book review will be published on June 11, alongside the wider Spending Review.

    Henri Murison, Chief Executive of the Northern Powerhouse Partnership, said:

    This government’s decision to back major local transport projects with serious, long-term investment will be critical to driving regional growth. The economic revival of Greater Manchester, enabled by sustained investment in the tram network in particular, has already begun to close the productivity gap with London. To build on that success and replicate it across all our regions in the North, we need to see key projects delivered – including the extension of the Metro to Washington, the replacement of the Sheffield tram fleet, and the extension of Metrolink to Stockport.

    Too many times in the past, a trade-off was made – due to limited funding – between connectivity within and between our regions. The spending rules adopted last autumn mean this government can invest in both at the same time, unlocking far greater productivity gains than prioritising one at the expense of the other.

    Jonny Haseldine, Head of Business Environment at the British Chambers of Commerce, said:

    The pathway to the strong and consistent growth the UK economy needs has to come through investment in our regions.

    That means developing regional infrastructure, including transport projects and grid connectivity, improved rail capacity and electrification of key sections of the network.

    These projects can then give firms involved in the supply chains real confidence to start planning and investing in their local economies.

    But it is critical that no corner of the UK gets left behind and regional development works in alignment with national goals.

    More information

    Mayoral breakdown of Transport for City Regions funding:

    Mayoral Combined Authority Funding allocation (27/28-31/32) (1) Projects likely to be taken forward by mayors
    West Midlands £2.4 billion Metro extension connecting Birmingham City Centre to new sports quarter, unlocking £3bn investment from private investors. This is the first phase of new mass transit from East Birmingham to North Solihull.
    West Yorkshire £2.1 billion Spades in the ground to start building West Yorkshire Mass Transit by 2028, with aim for first services by mid-2030s. Transforming six transport corridors in West Yorkshire not covered by the mass transit routes, including through new bus stations at Bradford and Wakefield
    Greater Manchester £2.5 billion Major infrastructure projects to unlock new homes, jobs and better connect communities, including growing and transforming the Metrolink tram network, with new tram stops in Bury, Manchester and Oldham and Metrolink extension to Stockport. A fully electric Bee Network, with zero emission public transport network across bikes, bus and tram by 2030, including purchase of 1,000 new electric buses. £530m to renew the tram network, providing a fleet of new, replacement vehicles, modernising tram stops, as well maintenance to improve reliability.
    South Yorkshire £1.5 billion £350m to reform South Yorkshire’s buses, with franchised buses operating in Sheffield, Doncaster and Rotherham by 2027 and across the whole of South Yorkshire by 2029.
    Liverpool City Region £1.6 billion £100m for 3 new bus rapid transit routes, to the Liverpool John Lennon Airport, Everton stadium and Anfield. Buying a brand-new fleet of buses for the city region’s franchised bus network, beginning with St Helens and the Wirral in 2026 and then Sefton, Knowsley, North and South Liverpool in 2027.
    North East £1.8 billion Metro extension linking Newcastle and Sunderland via Washington, serving one of the largest advanced manufacturing zones in the UK.
    West of England £0.8 billion £150m to improve rail infrastructure across the region, including funding to support WECA’s ambitions for increased frequency of services between Brabazon and the city centre. £200m for Mass transit development between Bristol, Bath, South Gloucestershire and North Somerset.
    Tees Valley £1.0 billion £60m for the Platform 3 extension at Middlesborough station, unblocking the local network.
    East Midlands £2.0 billion Designing a new mass transit system to connect Derby and Nottingham, encompassing road, rail and bus improvements across the Trent Arc corridor.

    (1): Some of this funding will be brought forward to 2025/26 and 2026/27 to ensure communities see the benefit of this significant investment even earlier.

    Ben Plowden, Chief Executive of Campaign for Better Transport, said:

    It’s great to see the Government investing in the local transport infrastructure that will tangibly improve the lives of millions across our city regions and particularly good to see trams being prioritised in several areas. Fast, frequent and reliable public transport is essential to unlocking opportunity and driving inclusive economic growth.

    We hope to see similar commitments to revenue funding in next week’s Spending Review, alongside support for local authorities to plan, deliver and run the high-quality transport services their communities need.

    Mark Casci, Head of Policy and Representation at West and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, said:

    This commitment to fund mass transit in West Yorkshire can be a game changer for the region.

    West Yorkshire is home to a world-class business community, but the region is held back by poor connectivity which impacts upon our productivity.

    By delivering this much needed infrastructure upgrade to the region, West Yorkshire can finally punch its weight and deliver enhanced returns for UK PLC.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Biometrics is the most profitable way to pay for transport. For the 4th year in a row!

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    As Maxim Liksutov reported, a single trip using biometrics costs 63 rubles. For comparison, payment for a “Wallet” ticket is 4 rubles higher, and for a bank card – 11 rubles higher.

    Biometrics in numbers:

    more than 400 thousand users

    over 160 thousand trips every weekday

    156 million passes since the launch of the service

    “Nowhere in the world is the most innovative biometric payment method developed on such a large scale and with such convenience as in Moscow. It is important that this is an absolutely secure service thanks to the banking level of protection. All data is securely encrypted. By the end of this year, at the request of Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin, we will connect all metro turnstiles to the face recognition payment service,” added Maxim Liksutov.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: SPbGASU and the Union of Restorers of St. Petersburg signed a cooperation agreement

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Ekaterina Voznyak, Alexandra Komissarova, Evgeny Korolev and Nadezhda Akulova

    On June 2, the Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering and the Union of Restorers of Saint Petersburg signed a cooperation agreement. The document was signed by Evgeny Korolev, Vice-Rector for Research, and Alexandra Komissarova, Deputy Director General of the Union of Restorers of Saint Petersburg.

    The activities of the Union of Restorers of St. Petersburg are aimed at preserving and restoring the architectural heritage of the Northern capital. It unites professionals in the field of complex restoration, suppliers of materials, and design organizations.

    The parties intend to cooperate in the field of science and education, popularization of cultural heritage sites, protection, preservation and popularization of historical sites and buildings, historical and cultural monuments; promote the development of the restoration industry as a complex of exclusive types of work to preserve architectural and cultural heritage; develop volunteerism.

    Following the signing ceremony, the parties outlined further steps aimed at training highly qualified professionals. Together with Evgeny Korolev and Alexandra Komissarova, the constructive dialogue was attended by the Dean of the Faculty of Architecture Ekaterina Voznyak, Advisor to the General Director of the Union of Restorers of St. Petersburg Lidiya Vernik, Associate Professor of the Department of Architectural and Urban Heritage Nadezhda Akulova.

    “We can tell about the possibilities of the SPbGASU educational programs to the members of the Union of Restorers so that they can send their employees to relevant training programs in order to improve their qualifications and develop the restoration industry of St. Petersburg. It also seems interesting to cooperate in the formation of educational programs aimed at improving the training of professional personnel involved in organizing and carrying out work on the preservation of architectural monuments. Organizations that are part of the Union of Restorers have extensive experience in restoration work, they are also valuable and interesting from the point of view of opportunities to replenish the teaching staff. Thus, we will act as a coordinator and accumulator of information on the joint activities of our organizations,” said Alexandra Komissarova.

    “The University is ready for joint activities. Those who are engaged in practical restoration and those who develop restoration science and teach future professionals must cooperate,” emphasized Evgeny Korolev.

    “The agreement was signed within the framework of the general strategy for the development of the university in the field of architectural restoration, as well as the activities of the Scientific and Educational Laboratory for the Restoration and Renovation of Architectural Heritage (NOL RAS). Our university and the Department of Architectural and Urban Heritage closely interact with the union, and now this interaction will reach a new level,” said Nadezhda Akulova, Associate Professor of the Department of Architectural and Urban Heritage.

    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 Asia-Pac: Banking bill passed

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Government today welcomed the Legislative Council’s passage of the Banking (Amendment) Bill 2025, which enables sharing of account information among banks under specified conditions in order to facilitate the detection and prevention of crime in Hong Kong.

    The amendment ordinance introduces a voluntary mechanism allowing banks and law enforcement agencies to share information with each other – swiftly and safely, via secure platforms designated by the Monetary Authority – relating to corporate and individual accounts, when banks become aware of suspected activities such as money laundering, or the financing of terrorist activities or of the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.

    The bill also provides legal protection for banks that disclose relevant information.

    The mechanism will enable banks and law enforcement agencies to act swiftly to intercept illicit funds and expedite intelligence gathering with a view to protecting the public from fraud and associated money laundering activities.

    Secretary for Financial Services & the Treasury Christopher Hui said the new mechanism not only enhances Hong Kong’s ability to combat fraud and associated money laundering activities, thereby providing better protection for citizens, but also helps maintain the stability of Hong Kong’s banking system and underscores the city’s efforts, as an international financial centre, to combat illegal activities.

    The amendment ordinance will come into effect this year. The commencement date will be announced separately.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Politics with Michelle Grattan: historian Emma Shortis warns against falling into Trump’s trade traps

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

    Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is expected to have his first face-to-face meeting with US President Donald Trump this month, against a background of increased steel and aluminium tariffs and US pressure on Australia to boost its defence spending.

    How Australia manages the now unpredictable US relationship has become a major debate among policy experts. Some question the implications for Australia’s reliance on the US for its security.

    One voice urging Australia to “rebalance” its relationship with the US is Dr Emma Shortis, the director of the Australia Institute’s International and Security Affairs program.

    Shortis is a historian with a particular interest in the United States’ history and politics. She joins the podcast to talk about her new book, After America: Australia and the New World Order.

    On the Australia–US alliance, Shortis says Trump doesn’t think about Australia – which might be a good thing, given Canada’s experience.

    Trump doesn’t really think about the United States’ relationship with Australia. We know that. He has made it very clear. He was asked in the Oval Office about the AUKUS submarine deal, and he responded, what does that mean? He doesn’t think about Australia.

    […] We also probably have to ask ourselves, would it be a good thing if Donald Trump thought about Australia more, if he cared about us more, or gave us more attention?

    […] There’s been a subtle but a noticeable shift in language coming from the prime minister in particular, about Australia’s role in the world and about the relationship with the United States – particularly this week, saying that Australia effectively won’t be dictated to by the United States around defence spending […] In the longer history of the way Australian leaders have bent the knee to the United States, that’s a pretty significant change.

    On Albanese’s likely meeting with Trump on the sidelines of the G7 summit in Canada, Shortis cautions against making offers to Trump on critical minerals to seek a better deal on tariffs.

    It doesn’t matter what we give him. So giving away Australian sovereign resources, or offering them on the cheap without much return, is not only not great policy [… but] it doesn’t align with a strategy of progressive patriotism that the prime minister has been talking about. And I don’t think it will get us much from the United States.

    It also falls into a trap that Trump is so good at laying, which is dividing the world. Getting individual world leaders to come scraping and begging, asking for exemptions, rather than being met by a solid wall of democratic resistance to what he’s doing.

    On hopes that after Trump, America might move away from its current style of politics, Shortis argues Trump’s changes are deeper than him.

    I would also argue really strongly that the America we thought we knew, the Biden version of the United States, is not coming back any time soon. This second Trump administration is an entirely different beast from the first. Trump and particularly the people around him, the movement that supports him, see this as a generational victory for the far-right movement in the United States. And they will not give it up easily.

    […] So this idea that we can just wait him out, that we can rely on the old assumptions about the cycles of American politics, I think is something we have to be really careful with.

    Shortis argues Australia should be “a real friend” to the US and its people – which would mean speaking up when we disagree – rather than abandoning the alliance.

    I don’t think we should drop the alliance. I also don’t think that is a realistic option politically at the moment. I think the alliance does serve a purpose when it is oriented towards those shared values […] and not to a kind of poverty-stricken view of security and the prevention of war.

    […] What we can do is pursue more independence in our decision-making, which lots of other countries do. If you look around the world, not many other countries are continually asking themselves: ‘Who is going to come and protect us? Who is going to come and save us?’ That is almost a kind of uniquely Australian trait. But again one that’s not inevitable and that we can rethink.

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

    – ref. Politics with Michelle Grattan: historian Emma Shortis warns against falling into Trump’s trade traps – https://theconversation.com/politics-with-michelle-grattan-historian-emma-shortis-warns-against-falling-into-trumps-trade-traps-258174

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: The secret to Ukraine’s battlefield successes against Russia – it knows wars are never won in the past

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Matthew Sussex, Associate Professor (Adj), Griffith Asia Institute; and Fellow, Strategic and Defence Studies Centre, Australian National University

    The iconoclastic American general Douglas Macarthur once said that “wars are never won in the past”.

    That sentiment certainly seemed to ring true following Ukraine’s recent audacious attack on Russia’s strategic bomber fleet, using small, cheap drones housed in wooden pods and transported near Russian airfields in trucks.

    The synchronised operation targeted Russian Air Force planes as far away as Irkutsk – more than 5,000 kilometres from Ukraine. Early reports suggest around a third of Russia’s long-range bombers were either destroyed or badly damaged. Russian military bloggers have put the estimated losses lower, but agree the attack was catastrophic for the Russian Air Force, which has struggled to adapt to Ukrainian tactics.

    This particular attack was reportedly 18 months in the making. To keep it secret was an extraordinary feat. Notably, Kyiv did not inform the United States that the attack was in the offing. The Ukrainians judged – perhaps understandably – that sharing intelligence on their plans could have alerted the Kremlin in relatively short order.

    Ukraine’s success once again demonstrates that its armed forces and intelligence services are the modern masters of battlefield innovation and operational security.

    Finding new solutions

    Western military planners have been carefully studying Ukraine’s successes ever since its forces managed to blunt Russia’s initial onslaught deep into its territory in early 2022, and then launched a stunning counteroffensive that drove the Russian invaders back towards their original starting positions.

    There have been other lessons, too, about how the apparently weak can stand up to the strong. These include:

    • attacks on Russian President Vladimir Putin’s vanity project, the Kerch Bridge, linking the Russian mainland to occupied Crimea (the last assault occurred just days ago)

    • the relentless targeting of Russia’s oil and gas infrastructure with drones

    • attacks against targets in Moscow to remind the Russian populace about the war, and

    • its incursion into the Kursk region, which saw Ukrainian forces capture around 1,000 square kilometres of Russian territory.

    On each occasion, Western defence analysts have questioned the wisdom of Kyiv’s moves.

    Why invade Russia using your best troops when Moscow’s forces continue laying waste to cities in Ukraine?

    Why hit Russia’s energy infrastructure if it doesn’t markedly impede the battlefield mobility of Russian forces?

    And why attack symbolic targets like bridges when it could provoke Putin into dangerous “escalation”?

    The answer to this is the key to effective innovation during wartime. Ukraine’s defence and security planners have interpreted their missions – and their best possible outcomes – far more accurately than conventional wisdom would have thought.

    Above all, they have focused on winning the war they are in, rather than those of the past. This means:

    • using technological advancements to force the Russians to change their tactics

    • shaping the information environment to promote their narratives and keep vital Western aid flowing, and

    • deploying surprise attacks not just as ways to boost public morale, but also to impose disproportionate costs on the Russian state.

    The impact of Ukraine’s drone attack

    In doing so, Ukraine has had an eye for strategic effects. As the smaller nation reliant on international support, this has been the only logical choice.

    Putin has been prepared to commit a virtually inexhaustible supply of expendable cannon fodder to continue his country’s war ad infinitum. Russia has typically won its wars this way – by attrition – albeit at a tremendous human and material cost.

    That said, Ukraine’s most recent surprise attack does not change the overall contours of the war. The only person with the ability to end it is Putin himself.

    That’s why Ukraine is putting as much pressure as possible on his regime, as well as domestic and international perceptions of it. It is key to Ukraine’s theory of victory.

    This is also why the latest drone attack is so significant. Russia needs its long-range bomber fleet, not just to fire conventional cruise missiles at Ukrainian civilian and infrastructure targets, but as aerial delivery systems for its strategic nuclear arsenal.

    The destruction of even a small portion of Russia’s deterrence capability has the potential to affect its nuclear strategy. It has increasingly relied on this strategy to threaten the West.

    A second impact of the attack is psychological. The drone attacks are more likely to enrage Putin than bring him to the bargaining table. However, they reinforce to the Russian military that there are few places – even on its own soil – that its air force can act with operational impunity.

    The surprise attacks also provide a shot in the arm domestically, reminding Ukrainians they remain very much in the fight.

    Finally, the drone attacks send a signal to Western leaders. US President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance, for instance, have gone to great lengths to tell the world that Ukraine is weak and has “no cards”. This action shows Kyiv does indeed have some powerful cards to play.

    That may, of course, backfire: after all, Trump is acutely sensitive to being made to look a fool. He may look unkindly at resuming military aid to Ukraine after being shown up for saying Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky would be forced to capitulate without US support.

    But Trump’s own hubris has already done that for him. His regular claims that a peace deal is just weeks away have gone beyond wishful thinking and are now monotonous.

    Unsurprisingly, Trump’s reluctance to put anything approaching serious pressure on Putin has merely incentivised the Russian leader to string the process along.

    Indeed, Putin’s insistence on a maximalist victory, requiring Ukrainian demobilisation and disarmament without any security guarantees for Kyiv, is not diplomacy at all. It is merely the reiteration of the same unworkable demands he has made since even before Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022.

    However, Ukraine’s ability to smuggle drones undetected onto an opponent’s territory, and then unleash them all together, will pose headaches for Ukraine’s friends, as well as its enemies.

    That’s because it makes domestic intelligence and policing part of any effective defence posture. It is a contingency democracies will have to plan for, just as much as authoritarian regimes, who are also learning from Ukraine’s lessons.

    In other words, while the attack has shown up Russia’s domestic security services for failing to uncover the plan, Western security elites, as well as authoritarian ones, will now be wondering whether their own security apparatuses would be up to the job.

    The drone strikes will also likely lead to questions about how useful it is to invest in high-end and extraordinarily expensive weapons systems when they can be vulnerable. The Security Service of Ukraine estimates the damage cost Russia US$7 billion (A$10.9 billion). Ukraine’s drones, by comparison, cost a couple of thousand dollars each.

    At the very least, coming up with a suitable response to those challenges will require significant thought and effort. But as Ukraine has repeatedly shown us, you can’t win wars in the past.

    Matthew Sussex has received funding from the Australian Research Council, the Atlantic Council, the Fulbright Foundation, the Carnegie Foundation, the Lowy Institute and various Australian government departments and agencies.

    – ref. The secret to Ukraine’s battlefield successes against Russia – it knows wars are never won in the past – https://theconversation.com/the-secret-to-ukraines-battlefield-successes-against-russia-it-knows-wars-are-never-won-in-the-past-258172

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK Supreme Court annual evidence session

    Source: United Kingdom UK House of Lords (video statements)

    Members discuss the role of the Supreme Court and challenges to the rule of law in this Lords Constitution Committee session with Lord Reed of Allermuir, President of the Supreme Court, and Lord Hodge, Deputy President of the Supreme Court.

    Find out more about the committee https://committees.parliament.uk/committee/172/constitution-committee/

    Catch-up on House of Lords business:

    Watch live events: https://parliamentlive.tv/Lords
    Read the latest news: https://www.parliament.uk/lords/

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    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rT5JxtagRBw

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the EU on the alignment of certain countries concerning restrictive measures in view of the situation in Russia

    Source: Council of the European Union

    Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2025/957 of 20 May 2025 amending Decision (CFSP) 2024/1484 concerning restrictive measures in view of the situation in Russia.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the EU on the alignment of certain countries concerning restrictive measures against the proliferation and use of chemical weapons

    Source: Council of the European Union

    Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2025/960 of 20  May 2025 amending Decision (CFSP) 2018/1544 concerning restrictive measures against the proliferation and use of chemical weapons.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the EU on the alignment of certain countries concerning restrictive measures in view of Russia’s destabilising activities

    Source: Council of the European Union

    Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2025/963 of 20 May 2025 amending Decision (CFSP) 2024/2643 concerning restrictive measures in view of Russia’s destabilising activities.

    MIL OSI Europe News –