NewzIntel.com

Category: DJF

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Facilitation for market to increase number of student hostels to consolidate Hong Kong’s status as education hub

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Facilitation for market to increase number of student hostels to consolidate Hong Kong’s status as education hub
         “Our policy objective is to create a clear and easy-to-follow operational framework that is in compliance and cost-efficient, while putting in sufficient measures to ensure that hostels under the Scheme fulfil the Government’s requirements”, a Government spokesman said.
     
         Specifically, operators may make use of the facilitation measures under the Scheme to apply for converting commercial buildings into eligible student hostels. In terms of planning procedures, the Town Planning Board has already expanded the definition of “Hotel” under the planning regime to cover eligible student hostels under the Scheme. As a result, since “Hotel” is an “always permitted use” in most commercial sites, no planning procedures would be required for converting those commercial buildings into student hostels. Under the buildings regime, converted student hostels under the Scheme will continue to be treated as non-domestic buildings for plot ratio and site coverage calculations, meaning that the existing gross floor area (GFA) of the commercial building can be retained. Moreover, facilities previously exempted from GFA calculations before conversion (e.g. car parking spaces and loading/unloading areas) can be retained and continue to be exempted from GFA calculation, so as to facilitate developers/operators to flexibly convert these facilities into facilities supporting hostel uses (e.g. gyms, study rooms, etc.) so that the hostel better suits the study and daily needs of the student tenants. In terms of land administration, most of the leases stated for non-industrial use allow student hostel use without the need for lease modification or payment of premiums. For the small number of cases where a lease modification is needed, the Lands Department will assess the amount of premium payment.

         The Scheme welcomes wholesale conversion of an entire commercial building into a student hostel, while permitting partial conversion if specific conditions are fulfilled.

         Industrial buildings and buildings in industrial zonings are not eligible under the Scheme. However, commercial buildings that have undergone wholesale conversions from industrial buildings located on non-industrial zonings would be eligible under the Scheme, provided that the relevant land administration procedures have been completed.
     
         Interested developers/operators need to submit applications to the EDB using a prescribed form, and fulfil eligibility criteria under the Scheme, including:
     
    (a) student hostels under the Scheme should be occupied by full-time local or non-local students of specified eligible institutions operating locally accredited post-secondary programmes at the sub-degree or degree levels. For operational flexibility, the Scheme allows occupation of at most 10 per cent of hostel places by persons who are affiliated with eligible institutions, such as wardens and visiting scholars, etc;
    (b) conversion works should be completed within 18 months (the EDB may consider granting an extension based on actual circumstances in consultation with relevant bureaux/departments);
    (c) hostel rooms must not be sold off individually; and
    (d) developers/operators must take all necessary and reasonable measures to ensure that the operation of the hostel complies with relevant statutory and administrative requirements, while also striving to maintain a safe and suitable living environment for students.
     
         ???When submitting applications, developers/operators must sign a statutory declaration that the eligibility criteria under the Scheme will be complied with. While the student hostel under the Scheme is in operation, a certified audit report is required to be submitted to the EDB annually, certifying that the eligibility criteria under the Scheme have been duly complied with during the reporting period. Proper records should also be maintained to demonstrate that the operator has continuously complied with the criteria. In case of non-compliance, the Government will take appropriate enforcement actions based on the aforementioned statutory declaration, land lease, and relevant ordinances.
     
         The Government has launched the dedicated website of the Scheme (www.studenthostel.gov.hkIssued at HKT 19:18

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Finding funding for the Bakerloo line extension

    Source: Mayor of London

    Transport for London (TfL) has proposed an extension of the Bakerloo line from Elephant and Castle, to Lewisham, including the potential for a further extension beyond Lewisham to Hayes and Beckenham Junction.

    The project is estimated to cost between £5.2 billion to £8.7 billion (at 2021 prices), with an additional £800 million to £1.9 billion required to extend the line further to Hayes.1

    The scheme would support over 53,000 new homes along the route, transform access to public transport in southeast London, significantly reducing journey times and increasing sustainable travel options. However, questions remain over how this project will be funded.

    Tomorrow, the London Assembly Budget and Performance Committee will hear from experts and TfL on the potential funding options for the Bakerloo line extension, and other new and future capital projects.

    Guests are:

    • Professor Tony Travers, Professor in Practice and Associate Dean, the London School of Economics
    • John Kavanagh, Programme Director, Infrastructure, Business LDN 
    • Chris Whitehouse, Technical Director, WSP 
    • Maurice Lange, Analyst, Centre for Cities 
    • Manish Gupta, Corporate Finance Director, TfL 
    • Lucinda Turner, Director of Spatial Planning, TfL

    The meeting will take place on Tuesday 22 July 2025 from 10am in the Chamber at City Hall, Kamal Chunchie Way, E16 1ZE.

    Media and members of the public are invited to attend.

    The meeting can also be viewed LIVE or later via webcast or YouTube.

    Follow us @LondonAssembly.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • Indian stock market rebounds sharply amid buying in banking heavyweights

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Snapping the losing streak, the Indian stock market closed in the positive territory on Monday, following value buying in banking heavyweights, as Sensex gained over 442 points.

    Sensex settled at 82,200.34, up 442.61 points or 0.54 per cent. The 30-share index opened in green at 81,918.53 against last session’s closing of 81,757.73. However, the index experienced a volatile session, hitting intra-day low at 81,518.66.

    Nifty50 closed at 25,090.70, up 122.30 or 0.49 per cent.

    The manufacturing segment gained today as the government is reviewing the scope of expanding the infrastructure spending to support growth.

    In the Sensex basket, Zomato, ICICI Bank, Adani Ports, HDFC Bank, Mahindra and Mahindra, BEL, Kotak Bank, Tata Motors, Bajaj FinServ, L&T, Power Grid and Kotak Mahindra Bank settled in positive territory. While Reliance, HCL Tech, Hindustan Unilever, TCS, and ITC were closed in red.

    Meanwhile, 28 stocks advanced, 21 declined, and one remained unchanged from the Nifty50.

    Among sectoral indices Bank Nifty soared 430 points or 1.62 per cent and, Nifty Auto jumped 0.67 per cent or 160 points. At the same time Nifty IT and Nifty FMCG ended the session in red.

    Broader indices witnessed a sharp rally with Nifty 100 closed 121 points higher, Nifty Midcap 100 surged 363.85 points, and Nifty Next 50 settled 278 points up.

    “Persistent uncertainty surrounding ongoing trade negotiations between the US and India tempered overall market gains, with investors closely monitoring the outcome of these high-stakes discussions for further cues, according to Ashika Institutional Equities.

    Rupee traded weak by 0.18 per cent at 86.25 as focus shifts to this week’s Fed Chair Powell’s speech, which is expected to drive volatility in the dollar index.

    Additionally, key economic indicators such as Manufacturing and Services PMI will be closely tracked by market participants, said Jateen Trivedi from LKP Securities.

    (IANS)

  • Israel Strikes Houthi Targets at Yemen’s Hodeidah Port Over Alleged Military Use

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Israeli military has confirmed that it struck targets at the port of Hodeidah in Yemen, claiming the facilities were being used by the Houthi movement for military purposes. Colonel Avichay Adraee, spokesperson for the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), said in a post on X that the operation targeted infrastructure belonging to what he described as the “terrorist Houthi regime.”

    According to Adraee, the strikes destroyed engineering equipment used to rebuild port facilities, fuel barrels, and naval components allegedly involved in military activity against Israel and shipping vessels in the surrounding maritime area. He asserted that the port has been previously used to transfer combat materials from Iran to the Houthis, which are then deployed in attacks on Israel and its allies.

    The IDF said it had been monitoring renewed Houthi activity at the port and launched the strike in response to attempts to reconstruct what it called terrorist infrastructure. It further accused the Houthi movement of using civilian infrastructure for military operations targeting international commercial shipping.

    The Israeli military stated it would continue to act against what it views as ongoing threats from the Houthis and reiterated its commitment to striking hostile targets regardless of their distance from Israeli territory.

    Reports also indicate that Israeli forces have launched a combined ground and air offensive on Deir al-Balah in central Gaza, marking the first ground operation in the city since the outbreak of the conflict with Hamas 21 months ago.

  • MIL-OSI USA: Stanford faculty member George Tidmarsh, M.D., Ph.D. named Director of Center for Drug Evaluation and Research

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    For Immediate Release:
    July 21, 2025

    The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today announced the appointment of George Francis Tidmarsh, M.D., Ph.D., as Director of the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER). In this role, Dr. Tidmarsh will lead the FDA’s efforts to ensure safe, effective, and high-quality drugs are available to the American people.
    “Dr. Tidmarsh is an accomplished physician-scientist and leader whose experience spans the full arc of drug development—from bench to bedside,” said FDA Commissioner Marty Makary, M.D., M.P.H. “His appointment to lead CDER brings exceptional scientific, regulatory, and operational expertise to the agency. I look forward to working with him to strengthen our drug review programs, foster innovation, and advance cross-agency initiatives that improve health outcomes for the American public.”
    Dr. Tidmarsh earned his M.D. and Ph.D. in cancer biology from Stanford University where he completed residency training in pediatrics. He went on to complete two subspecialty programs at Stanford, one in pediatric oncology and another in neonatology. He brings over 30 years of experience in biotechnology, clinical medicine, and regulatory science and has authored 143 scientific publications and patents.  
    Dr. Tidmarsh was also the founding co-director of Stanford’s Master of Translational Research and Applied Medicine (M-TRAM) program, which bridges academic research and clinical application by training students and researchers to translate scientific discoveries into real-world medical solutions. His commitment to education, mentorship, and translational research continues to shape the next generation of physician-scientists and innovators. 
    Dr. Tidmarsh has led the successful clinical development of seven FDA-approved drugs and served as founder and CEO of multiple biopharmaceutical companies focused on oncology and critical care medicine. His work spans the full translational pipeline—from discovery through regulatory approval—and he is widely recognized for his ability to bring forward innovative treatments that address serious unmet medical needs. He has also served on advisory boards across academia, government, and industry.

    Consumer:888-INFO-FDA

    ###

    Boilerplate

    The FDA, an agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, protects the public health by assuring the safety, effectiveness, and security of human and veterinary drugs, vaccines and other biological products for human use, and medical devices. The agency also is responsible for the safety and security of our nation’s food supply, cosmetics, dietary supplements, radiation-emitting electronic products, and for regulating tobacco products.

    Content current as of:
    07/21/2025

    Follow FDA

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Stanford faculty member George Tidmarsh, M.D., Ph.D. named Director of Center for Drug Evaluation and Research

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    For Immediate Release:
    July 21, 2025

    The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today announced the appointment of George Francis Tidmarsh, M.D., Ph.D., as Director of the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER). In this role, Dr. Tidmarsh will lead the FDA’s efforts to ensure safe, effective, and high-quality drugs are available to the American people.
    “Dr. Tidmarsh is an accomplished physician-scientist and leader whose experience spans the full arc of drug development—from bench to bedside,” said FDA Commissioner Marty Makary, M.D., M.P.H. “His appointment to lead CDER brings exceptional scientific, regulatory, and operational expertise to the agency. I look forward to working with him to strengthen our drug review programs, foster innovation, and advance cross-agency initiatives that improve health outcomes for the American public.”
    Dr. Tidmarsh earned his M.D. and Ph.D. in cancer biology from Stanford University where he completed residency training in pediatrics. He went on to complete two subspecialty programs at Stanford, one in pediatric oncology and another in neonatology. He brings over 30 years of experience in biotechnology, clinical medicine, and regulatory science and has authored 143 scientific publications and patents.  
    Dr. Tidmarsh was also the founding co-director of Stanford’s Master of Translational Research and Applied Medicine (M-TRAM) program, which bridges academic research and clinical application by training students and researchers to translate scientific discoveries into real-world medical solutions. His commitment to education, mentorship, and translational research continues to shape the next generation of physician-scientists and innovators. 
    Dr. Tidmarsh has led the successful clinical development of seven FDA-approved drugs and served as founder and CEO of multiple biopharmaceutical companies focused on oncology and critical care medicine. His work spans the full translational pipeline—from discovery through regulatory approval—and he is widely recognized for his ability to bring forward innovative treatments that address serious unmet medical needs. He has also served on advisory boards across academia, government, and industry.

    Consumer:888-INFO-FDA

    ###

    Boilerplate

    The FDA, an agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, protects the public health by assuring the safety, effectiveness, and security of human and veterinary drugs, vaccines and other biological products for human use, and medical devices. The agency also is responsible for the safety and security of our nation’s food supply, cosmetics, dietary supplements, radiation-emitting electronic products, and for regulating tobacco products.

    Content current as of:
    07/21/2025

    Follow FDA

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation Receives Her German Counterpart on Her First Visit to Egypt to Discuss Strengthening the Strategic Economic Partnership Between the Two Countries

    Source: APO


    .

    H.E. Dr. Rania Al-Mashat, Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation, received Ms. Reem Alabali-Radovan, Federal Minister for Economic Cooperation and Development of Germany, at the Government Headquarters in New Alamein City during her visit to the Arab Republic of Egypt, within the framework of strengthening bilateral economic cooperation between the two countries. The meeting comes as a follow-up to the fruitful discussions held during the 4th International Conference on Financing for Development (Ff4D) in Seville, Spain.

    At the beginning of the meeting, H.E. Dr. Rania Al-Mashat welcomed the German Minister on her first visit to Egypt and wished her success in her mission in the new German government, emphasizing the Arab Republic of Egypt’s appreciation for for the Egyptian-German economic relations, which represent a strategic partnership that reflects the keenness to advancing mutual interests and promoting development efforts, whether through bilateral governmental partnership, German investments in Egypt, and development cooperation efforts, adding that this visit marks a milestone in the process of cooperation between the two countries and reflects the depth of bilateral relations and common vision towards achieving sustainable development and economic growth.

    The two ministers discussed recent developments in Egyptian-German economic and investment relations, joint development projects, and explored new mechanisms for innovative financing, especially in light of the outcomes of the 4th International Conference on Financing for Development held in Seville, Spain, and the need for the international community to contribute more to financing development in developing countries and emerging economies. They also discussed the implementation of the European Investment Guarantee Mechanism (EFSD+), which comes in light of the Egypt-EU strategic partnership and contributes to increasing foreign direct investments to the local and foreign private sector in Egypt, in addition to the preparations for the convening of the 2025 Egyptian-German governmental negotiations.

    The two sides also discussed the outcomes of the 4th International Conference on Financing for Development, noting the importance of implementing recommendations of the UN expert group report on addressing debt challenges in Global South countries, which included 11 outcomes, such as redirecting and replenishing existing resources from multilateral development banks and the IMF to enhance liquidity, adopting policies to extend maturities, financing debt buybacks, reducing debt servicing during crises, reforming the G20 Common Framework to include all middle-income countries, and updating IMF and World Bank debt sustainability analysis (DSA) to better reflect the situation of low- and middle-income countries, among other measures.

    The Minister of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation also reviewed the key features of Egypt’s national narrative for economic development, which aims to achieve a structural transformation in the Egyptian economy towards tradable and exportable sectors by strengthening macroeconomic policies, encouraging foreign direct investment, promoting industrial development, and supporting labor market and employment policies, noting that Egyptian-German relations are reflected in achieving these objectives.

    In this context, H.E. Dr. Al-Mashat praised the success of the Egyptian-German Debt Swap Program, where the Egyptian government succeeded in signing debt swap agreements with a total value of €340 million to finance various development projects across multiple sectors, including the new tranche of the debt swap program worth €100 million for the period 2024–2026, explaining that the program contributed  to using the local currency equivalents of debt repayments to implement development projects in various sectors, including education and technical education, social protection, health, improving renewable energy supply. Ongoing coordination is underway to allocate €50 million from the program to support the energy pillar of the “NWFE” program, financing part of the local component for connecting ACWA Power (1) and (2) wind farms, with a total capacity of 1,100 MW. She reaffirmed that the Egyptian-German Debt Swap Program is a successful model for promoting financing for development.

    The discussion also touched on the Financial Cooperation Agreement between Egypt and Germany, which was signed on May 25, 2025, and includes a €118 million financing package in the form of concessional financing and financial contributions (complementary grants), and includes funding for the following projects: financial support for the Comprehensive Technical Education Initiative and the support for the establishment of 25 Egyptian Centers of Excellence. In the same context, the two sides also discussed the the status of the governmental negotiations to be held between the Egyptian and German sides at the end of this year, expressing their aspiration to enhance economic and development cooperation between the two governments, as well as allocating new financial contributions to finance development projects aimed at driving economic growth.

    Furthermore, H.E. Dr. Al-Mashat pointed out that, In light of the success of the country platform for the “NWFE” program and the international community’s expansion of the concept of national platforms to mobilize investments, work is currently underway, in coordination with the Ministry of Industry, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, and other development partners, to launch the first national platform to mobilize financing and technical support for the industrial sector. This aligns with the national narrative for economic development to support the state’s efforts in localizing industry and encouraging domestic production, noting that the narrative sets a unified vision for the Egyptian economy to shift towards tradable sectors.

    H.E. also highlighted the importance of strengthening South-South cooperation and triangular cooperation through German collaboration to stimulate efforts to transfer Egyptian expertise in the field of development to developing and emerging countries, noting Egypt’s keenness to advance the prospects of joint cooperation in the field of water within the “NWFE” program with the German side.

    For her part, the German Minister expressed her aspiration to build on the Egyptian-German strategic relations and the progress achieved in recent years to further advance joint cooperation in light of regional and global challenges.

    In the same context, the two sides addressed the Egyptian-German economic cooperation portfolio, which currently amounts to approximately €1.6 billion, aiming to implement various development projects across priority sectors that contribute to sustainable economic development including energy, climate, water supply, sanitation, irrigation, migration, solid waste management, and enhancing the competitiveness of the private sector, which are funded through multiple mechanisms, such as the Egyptian-German Debt Swap Program, concessional financing, financial contributions, and technical cooperation grants.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation – Egypt.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Africa Finance Corporation Secures Inaugural AED 937.5 Million Sustainability-Linked Loan Backed by United Arab Emirates (UAE) Banks

    Source: APO

    Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) (www.AfricaFC.org), the continent’s leading infrastructure solutions provider, has secured an inaugural Sustainability-Linked Term Loan Facility, marking a significant milestone in the Corporation’s innovative funding strategy and deepening its financial ties with the UAE.

    The AED 937.50 million (US$255 million) facility reflects AFC’s commitment to use financial innovation tools to optimise funding for transformative infrastructure. Along with further expanding AFC’s geographical funding base, the transaction aligns future borrowing costs with measurable environmental outcomes through predefined Sustainability Performance Targets (SPTs). The structure allows AFC to benefit from reduced loan costs upon achieving key sustainability targets, signaling to investors and stakeholders the importance of environmental responsibility to its infrastructure investment mandate.

    The loan facility was anchored by a syndicate of prominent UAE-based financial institutions. Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank PJSC, Emirates NBD Capital Limited, First Abu Dhabi Bank PJSC, Mashreqbank PSC, and the National Bank of Ras Al Khaimah (P.S.C.) acted as Initial Mandated Lead Arrangers and Bookrunners (IMLABs). Mashreqbank PSC additionally served as Global Coordinator and Documentation Agent, while First Abu Dhabi Bank PJSC acted as Sustainability Coordinator and Emirates NBD Bank (P.J.S.C.) acted as the Facility Agent.

    “This facility represents a key milestone in AFC’s journey,” said Banji Fehintola, Executive Board Member & Head, Financial Services, AFC. “By tapping the UAE Dirham market and embedding sustainability performance into our funding terms, we are not only diversifying our funding sources but also aligning our financing strategy with our mission to catalyse infrastructure-driven economic growth and industrial development across Africa. This transaction is a testament to the strength of our partnerships in the UAE and our continued commitment to sustainable infrastructure development across Africa.”

    This facility builds on AFC’s strong momentum in diversified and sustainable capital raising. Following a record US$1.16 billion syndicated loan in 2024, AFC debuted a US$500 million hybrid capital issuance and a US$400 million Murabaha facility in 2025. The Corporation also expanded its climate finance instruments – having issued a CHF150 million Green Bond in 2020, and in 2024, pioneering Green Shares with a US$30 million equity investment from the African Development Bank. These efforts complement AFC’s strategic stake in Lekela Power, through Infinity, forming Africa’s largest renewable energy platform with over 1 GW of clean power capacity, reaching 1.2 million homes and avoiding 7.9 million tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa Finance Corporation (AFC).

    Media Enquiries:
    Yewande Thorpe
    Communications
    Africa Finance Corporation
    Mobile: +234 1 279 9654
    Email: yewande.thorpe@africafc.org

    About AFC:
    AFC was established in 2007 to be the catalyst for pragmatic infrastructure and industrial investments across Africa. AFC’s approach combines specialist industry expertise with a focus on financial and technical advisory, project structuring, project development, and risk capital to address Africa’s infrastructure development needs and drive sustainable economic growth.

    Eighteen years on, AFC has developed a track record as the partner of choice in Africa for investing and delivering on instrumental, high-quality infrastructure assets that provide essential services in the core infrastructure sectors of power, natural resources, heavy industry, transport, and telecommunications. AFC has 45 member countries and has invested over US$15 billion in 36 African countries since its inception.

    www.AfricaFC.org

    Media files

    .

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: The U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) Strengthens United States (US)-Africa Critical Mineral Ties Ahead of African Mining Week (AMW) 2025

    Source: APO


    .

    The U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) approved two new investments for critical minerals projects in sub-Saharan Africa this month. The funding aims to accelerate economic development across the region while reinforcing US supply chains for minerals essential to the country’s defense, energy, security and advanced technology sectors. The investments will also drive infrastructure expansion, boost employment and increase export revenues for the African markets.

    The announcement comes ahead of the upcoming African Mining Week (AMW) conference – Africa’s premier gathering for mining stakeholders. The event will showcase the role being played by U.S. institutions such as the DFC in enhancing US-Africa ties in mining and investment. AMW will feature a dedicated US-Africa Roundtable, connecting U.S. policymakers and institutional investors with African governments, project developers and stakeholders for partnership formation, deal signing and policy alignment.

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

    In the last two years, the DFC has been advancing US–Africa mining collaboration through a growing portfolio of investments, loans and technical assistance grants. Among these is the DFC’s $5 million funding package for Blencowe Resources, aimed at developing the Orom-Cross graphite project in Uganda. In July 2025, Blencowe received a $750,000 tranche as part of this commitment, following an earlier $500,000 disbursement in May. The final $250,000 payment will support the project’s definitive feasibility study. With a JORC Indicated and Inferred Resource of 24.5 million tons at 6.0% total graphite content, Orom-Cross is expected to operate for 21 years, contributing to Uganda’s economic transformation and in meeting growing global demand for battery-grade graphite.

    Other recent DFC commitments include a $553 million loan for the Lobito Corridor, a project aimed at improving mineral transportation for Angola, Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The DFC also approved a $3.4 million technical assistance grant for the Longonjo Rare Earths Project in Angola, a $50 million equity investment in the Phalaborwa Rare Earths Project in South Africa and a $3.2 million grant for Chillerton’s green copper mining project in Kakosa, Zambia. In Tanzania, the DFC is also backing Kabanga Nickel Limited with a loan to support the development of one of Africa’s most significant nickel sulphide deposits.

    With this growing investment footprint, the DFC continues to position itself as a key partner in unlocking Africa’s mineral potential while advancing US strategic interests. AMW 2025 will serve as a powerful platform to build on this momentum, facilitating collaboration, catalyzing new investments and reinforcing US-Africa partnerships in mineral development.

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

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Sonangol Joins Angola Oil & Gas (AOG) 2025 as Diamond Sponsor Amid Bold Development Drive

    Source: APO

    Angola’s national oil company (NOC) Sonangol has joined the Angola Oil & Gas (AOG) conference as a Diamond Sponsor. The company’s participation comes as it implements a bold development drive in Angola, targeting new exploration opportunities, increased production and 445,000 barrels per day (bpd) in refining capacity. Sonangol’s sponsorship reflects a broader commitment to using oil and gas as a catalyst for development in Angola and is expected to unlock new pathways for global collaboration.

    Producing upwards of 200,000 bpd in oil and gas and supplying the market with 5.4 million metric tons of refined products, Sonangol is an instrumental part of Angola’s oil and gas market. The company has stakes in 35 concessions, of which nine are operated, and has positioned itself as the partner of choice for upstream players. Sonangol is in the process of transforming itself from an NOC into a competitive upstream player. The company reaffirmed its plan to launch an Initial Public Offering, with 30% of the company’s shares set to become available. The partial privatization is not only expected to generate capital to support exploration and production projects, but strengthen Sonangol’s role as a major upstream operator in Angola.

    The anticipated IPO comes as Sonangol advances a series of major oil and gas projects in collaboration with international partners. These include the Agogo Integrated West Hub Development, on track for production by late-2025 and adding 120,000 bpd to the market, as well as the Kaminho deepwater development. Kaminho achieved a final investment decision in 2024 and will start operations in 2028. With the country striving to sustain oil production above one million bpd, Sonangol is also pursuing new development opportunities in Angola, working closely with international operators to unlock new resources. Notably, the company signed a memorandum of understanding with Brazilian state-owned multinational corporation Petrobras in May 2025, covering research and development activities. The agreement follows another deal signed in March 2025 between the companies, outlining the joint study of offshore acreage in Angola. 

    Meanwhile, in pursuit of enhanced fuel security, Sonangol plans to increase refining capacity to 445,000 bpd through the development of three new facilities – set to complement the operational 65,000 bpd Luanda refinery. The first of these – the first phase of the 60,000 bpd Cabinda refinery – is coming online in 2025, while Sonangol is currently seeking $4.8 billion to address the funding shortfall for the Lobito refinery – a 200,000 bpd facility under construction. A 100,000-bpd facility is also planned in Soyo. The Cabinda facility alone is anticipated to reduce Angola’s derivative imports by 14% by 2026.

    Beyond these projects, Sonangol has committed to strengthening skills development across the Angolan oil and gas sector. The company signed two agreements with Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the United States (US) in June 2025, aimed at supporting the development of Angola’s natural and mineral resources by leveraging US research, innovation and technology. The first agreement was signed with MIT Industrial Liaison Program, enabling Sonangol to directly interact with MIT research areas to support projects across the energy, mining, engineering, construction and infrastructure industries. The second agreement, MIT Africa, will facilitate knowledge-exchange, staff training, joint research and academic mentoring. MIT Africa features two programs – Global Classroom and Global Teaching Labs – which allow Angolan educational institutions to collaborate with MIT. 

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

    Media files

    .

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Angola Oil & Gas 2025 Launches Exhibition-Only Passes

    Source: APO

    The Angola Oil & Gas (AOG) Conference & Exhibition returns as the premier platform for the country’s hydrocarbon industry. Convening operators, financiers, service providers and technology experts in Luanda on September 3-4, 2025, the event represents the largest of its kind in the country. This year’s edition reintroduces exclusive exhibition-only passes, offering strategic access to the exhibition floor.

    Striving to sustain oil production above one million barrels per day, Angola is driving a series of ambitious oil projects, from frontier exploration to incremental production to brownfield drilling and seismic data acquisition. At the same time, the country is pursuing advanced gas development opportunities, in line with goals to balance hydrocarbon production with a transition to low-carbon fuels. This strategy has created a unique opportunity for operators, service providers, technology experts and research and development firms to deploy their innovative solutions across the market. This year’s AOG 2025 exhibition will showcase these solutions, with companies from across the entire oil and gas value chain featured on the exhibition floor.  

    This year’s AOG 2025 will feature Sonangol as a diamond exhibitor. As the country’s national oil company, Sonangol is spearheading efforts to increase oil production, advance gas development while decarbonizing the industry. Additionally, the event will feature the following platinum exhibitors:

    • Etu Energias
    • Labman

    The AOG 2025 gold exhibitors include:

    • Azule Energy
    • ENSA
    • EY
    • Kotoil Energy
    • Cabship
    • Sonamet
    • Alfort Petroleum

    Meanwhile, silver exhibitors include:

    • Petrotec Group
    • 3S Service
    • ACE Energy
    • Oceaneering
    • Easy People
    • AES
    • ITGEST

    Bronze exhibitors include:

    • Algoa Cabinda Services
    • Cabinda Refinery
    • Petrofund
    • Africa Global Logistics

    AOG 2025 will also feature a range of other exhibitors, showcasing innovation, technology and multi-faceted oilfield service solutions. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to join the AOG 2025 conference. Visit https://apo-opa.co/4kSogQV or contact sales@energycapitalpower.com for more information.

    Passes are selling out fast – secure yours before it’s too late.

    AOG is the largest oil and gas event in Angola. Taking place with the full support of the Ministry of Mineral Resources, Oil and Gas; the National Oil, Gas and Biofuels Agency; the Petroleum Derivatives Regulatory Institute; national oil company Sonangol; and the African Energy Chamber; the event is a platform to sign deals and advance Angola’s oil and gas industry. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.

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

    Media files

    .

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • IMD predicts week-long rain spree in southern, central India; Delhi-NCR to witness light showers till July 23

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Monday predicted heavy to very heavy rainfall over multiple regions in southern and central India across the country in the next few days. Western Himalayan Region and adjoining plains, eastern and central India regions are expected to receive intense precipitation.

    States including Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand are also expected to receive heavy rainfall over the next 3–4 days, while Gangetic West Bengal, Odisha, and Jharkhand are expected to witness similar conditions from July 23 to 27.

    Southern and western coastal regions – including Kerala, Karnataka, coastal Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Konkan & Goa, central Maharashtra, Vidarbha, and Chhattisgarh – are also bracing for heavy rains over the next 5–7 days.

    The IMD has issued specific alerts for very heavy rainfall on July 21 over Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, and coastal Andhra Pradesh. Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand are expected to receive intense rainfall on July 21 and 22, while the Konkan region, Goa, and the ghat areas of Maharashtra are likely to see continued heavy showers until July 27.

    In the past 24 hours, isolated places in Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Odisha, Gangetic West Bengal, Jharkhand, and Tripura recorded heavy to very heavy rainfall (ranging between 7–20 cm).

    Delhi-NCR Weather Update

    For Delhi-NCR, the IMD has predicted generally cloudy skies with light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning from July 21 to 23. Maximum temperatures are expected to range between 31–34°C, slightly below normal. The capital may experience very light rain on July 24 with partly cloudy skies, and temperatures could rise slightly to 34–36°C.

    Winds in the region are expected to vary in direction and speed over the forecast period, predominantly from the southeast to southwest, with speeds ranging from 8 to 20 kmph during different times of the day.

  • UPI revolution pushes India to global lead in real-time digital payments

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India has firmly established itself as a global leader in real-time digital payments, with the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) at the forefront of this transformation. According to a recent IMF note titled “Growing Retail Digital Payments: The Value of Interoperability”, India’s digital infrastructure has become a global benchmark, with UPI now processing over 18 billion transactions each month.

    Launched in 2016 by the National Payments Corporation of India, UPI has redefined how Indians send and receive money – bringing together multiple bank accounts in a single mobile app for instant, secure, and low-cost transactions. In June 2025 alone, the platform handled transactions worth over ₹24.03 lakh crore, showing a 32% increase from the same period last year.

    UPI now accounts for 85% of all digital payments in India, serving 491 million individuals and 65 million merchants, and connecting 675 banks on a unified platform. Globally, it processes 640 million transactions daily, recently surpassing Visa’s volume, and now powers nearly 50% of all real-time payments worldwide.

    The system has expanded beyond India’s borders and is now live in seven countries, including Singapore, UAE, Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Mauritius, and France – marking its first entry into Europe. India is also pushing for UPI’s adoption among BRICS nations, aiming to enhance remittances and financial inclusion on a global scale.

    Backed by strong digital infrastructure, policy vision, and inclusive design, UPI is no longer just a domestic innovation but a model for the world. Its success signals India’s growing stature in global fintech and its commitment to building a cashless, connected, and inclusive digital economy.

  • RRBs reduced from 43 to 28 to simplify management, ease of service delivery: FM Sitharaman

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The amalgamation of Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) has resulted in formation of a state-level RRB with contiguous area of operation leading to simplifying management and ease of service delivery, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said on Monday.

    In a written reply to a question on the first day of the Parliament’s Monsoon Session, FM Sitharaman said that guided by the principle of ‘One State-One RRB’, the government continued with the process of further consolidation of RRBs in “Phase IV amalgamation” to achieve the benefits of scale efficiency and cost rationalisation, whereby number of RRBs has been reduced from 43 to 28 (with effect from May 1, 2025) in 26 states and 2 UTs.

    “The RRBs have increased their capital base, enhancing the financial stability and resilience of the merged entity. By consolidating operations and eliminating redundancies on account of separate administrative structures, amalgamation is expected to lead to cost savings,” the finance minister informed.

    Further, amalgamated RRBs can invest in and leverage advanced technology platforms, leading to improved operational efficiency and customer service, she mentioned in her reply in the Lok Sabha.

    The government has constituted state-level monitoring committee (SLMC) and national-level project monitoring unit (NLPMU) to oversee and monitor the implementation of the amalgamation programme.

    “NABARD has issued National Level Standard Operating Procedure (SOP), containing detailed guidelines, which, inter alia, advises setting up of Amalgamation Project Management Unit (APMU), Steering Committee and Functional Committees in every anchor/transferee RRB to finalise the harmonised policies and operational guidelines, and to handle day-to-day integration plan,” the finance minister noted in her reply.

    A study on the impact of amalgamation of RRBs on their financial performance was undertaken by NABARD in 2021 and it was observed that the amalgamation process in the past had resulted in improved viability and financial performance of the RRBs.

    The study revealed that during the different phases of amalgamation, the share of profitable and sustainably viable RRBs improved continuously and the quantum of accumulated losses as a percentage of total assets also declined

    (IANS)

  • UPI transforms everyday life in India

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has transformed how millions manage money, making the country a global leader in fast, real-time digital payments. The world is also recognizing the power of Digital India and UPI. A recent IMF note titled “Growing Retail Digital Payments: The Value of Interoperability” highlights UPI’s success as a model of public digital infrastructure.

    UPI has made a name for itself in the fintech world. Real-time digital transactions in India now exceed the total of such transactions globally – an achievement that is drawing worldwide attention.

    With over 18 billion transactions monthly, UPI enables seamless money transfers, bill payments, and merchant transactions. Its interoperability allows users across banks and apps to transact effortlessly, fostering innovation and competition in India’s fintech space.

    Before UPI, digital payments in India were limited by closed-loop systems, where transactions can only happen within the same platform. UPI changed this. It connected banks and fintech apps through a common platform. Now, a user can pick any UPI-enabled app and pay someone using another app, without worrying about which bank they use. This is true interoperability in action.

    UPI’s impact is visible in daily life – people can send or receive money 24/7, pay via QR codes, manage multiple accounts in one app, and enjoy fast, secure, and private transactions. Even grievances can be addressed directly through the app.

    This digital shift rests on strong foundations. The Jan Dhan Yojana brought over 55.83 crore people into the banking system. The Aadhaar platform, with over 142 crore cards, enabled secure digital identity. Meanwhile, rapid 5G rollout and low-cost data – dropping from Rs 308/GB in 2014 to just Rs 9.34 – expanded digital access to the remotest corners.

    UPI now accounts for 85% of all digital payments in India and has gone global, operating in seven countries and pushing for adoption within the BRICS bloc.

    India’s digital revolution, powered by UPI, is redefining everyday life and setting a new global standard for inclusive and interoperable digital finance.

     

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Safety improvements made at at former colliery site

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Safety improvements made at at former colliery site

    The Mining Remediation Authority has completed essential safety work at the former Morton Colliery site in Derbyshire.

    Safety works being undertaken at the former Morton Colliery site.

    The works involved capping a disused mine shaft, clearing the old heapstead building around the shaft and demolishing a derelict electrical substation to help protect the public and ensure long-term safety for the local community.

    Although the 275m deep mine shaft, also known as the Morton Upcast shaft, was secure before we started the works, it had never been fully treated to modern standards. 

    The heapstead building and substation were in a secure area of the former colliery site, but had started to deteriorate and be occasionally vandalised and had become a safety concern 

    To provide a permanent, modern solution, the shaft was capped with a reinforced concrete slab – around 0.8 metres thick and placed at a depth of 6.5m below ground level. The heapstead building and substation were demolished and all the materials removed from the site.

    Safety works being undertaken at the former Morton Colliery site.

    James Walker, project manager for our public safety and subsidence team said:  

    We are committed to keeping people safe and providing peace of mind and these works demonstrate our ongoing efforts to mitigate risks associated with disused mining infrastructure and help create safer communities.

    With the works complete, plans for the future of the site, such as the development of a memorial garden can now also be considered so that the rich mining history of this area is acknowledged appropriately.

    Coal mine hazards can be reported to us 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by calling 0800 288 4242.

    For media enquiries contact the community response team

    Email communityresponse@miningremediation.gov.uk

    Telephone 0800 288 4211

    For emergency media enquiries (out of hours) call: 0800 288 4242.
    Only urgent media calls will be attended to.

    Updates to this page

    Published 21 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New HMRC service announced for workers to take control of their tax affairs

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    New HMRC service announced for workers to take control of their tax affairs

    New PAYE service announced to save around 35 million taxpayers’ time.

    • New PAYE service to make tax system simpler and easier for around 35 million workers.
    • At least 90% of customer interactions with HMRC to be digital by 2030.
    • Reducing post and letters to save £50 million a year – equal to almost 1,500 full time nurses.

    Workers are set to take control of their tax affairs as the government today (21 July 2025) announces a new online Pay As You Earn (PAYE) service for around 35 million UK taxpayers as HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) sets out more than 50 measures to transform the UK’s tax and customs system.

    The new online service for all PAYE taxpayers will make it simpler and easier to check and update their income, allowances, reliefs and expenses, and will be available via their Personal Tax Account or through the HMRC app.

    This service forms part of HMRC’s Transformation Roadmap launched today that sets out ambitious plans to become a digital first organisation by 2030, with 90% of customer interactions taking place digitally.

    The roadmap sets out more than 50 IT projects, services and measures that, once delivered, will transform the UK’s tax and customs systems, simplifying processes and making it easier to pay the tax that funds public services and deliver the government’s Plan for Change.

    The plans to modernise the tax and customs system, introduce new AI technologies and work with third parties and intermediaries will make it easier for taxpayers, businesses and intermediaries to interact with HMRC.

    The digital first approach will see HMRC automating tax wherever possible and offering new digital self-serve options across a number of tax regimes.

    Alongside the new PAYE service, HMRC will save £50 million a year – the equivalent of almost 1,500 full time nurses – by moving customer letters and reminders to a digital first approach, reducing the reliance on paper correspondence, by the 2028 to 2029 tax year. Paper post provision will remain for critical correspondence and for the digitally excluded.

    Increasing the use and investment in AI will enable customers to meet their tax obligations and allow HMRC to monitor the tax system in near real time. HMRC plans to introduce AI in work areas including:

    • HMRC advisers and caseworkers: using AI capability to automate call summaries and the use of internal GenAI Chat Assistants to support them in their work
    • Digital assistants: developing new AI-powered features to help customers easily navigate HMRC services and improve the ability to update HMRC’s content and guidance on GOV.UK
    • Compliance: delivering an automatic document identifier system for HMRC caseworkers to identify fraudulent documents during compliance activities by using a biometric likeness-liveness check

    HMRC will work with developers to create a set of principles which will set out HMRC’s expectations of how third parties use AI in software where it interacts with the department and the tax administration system. These principles will give developers the confidence to introduce AI functionality into their products in the UK and minimise the risk of those products introducing error or non-compliance.

    James Murray MP, Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury, said:

    We are going further and faster to make HMRC fit for the 21st century, including delivering a simpler and easier system for all PAYE workers.

    By 2030, taxpayers can expect a modern and innovative HMRC with cutting-edge AI, industry-leading customer service practices, and a laser focus on delivering taxpayer value for money by ensuring everyone pays their fair share.

    Mr Murray’s key priorities for the department are to improve day-to-day performance and the customer experience, reform and modernise the tax and customs system and to close the tax gap. As announced at the Spending Review 2025, £1.7 billion will be provided to HMRC over 4 years to fund an additional 5,500 compliance and 2,400 debt management staff – to ensure more of the tax owed is paid, to fund public services.

    HMRC is focusing on tackling wealthy offshore tax non-compliance, with an additional 400 people set to work on wealthy offshore tax risks. This includes experts in private sector wealth management, who will help find and tackle non-compliance more effectively and train HMRC compliance staff.

    JP Marks, HMRC’s Chief Executive and First Permanent Secretary, said:

    The Government’s ambition is for a simpler tax and customs system and this roadmap sets out how HMRC will deliver a first-class experience that feels different to their customers.

    By 2030, UK citizens will experience a tax administration system that is more automated, more focused on self-service, and better set up to get things right first time so they can fulfil their tax obligations.

    The Transformation Roadmap sets out timescales for delivery and HMRC is committed to reporting on progress. Work is underway to deliver some of the measures set out in the roadmap this tax year, including:

    • extending the rollout of the SMS confirmation service to Self Assessment appeals, complaint cases and some PAYE services
    • improving Self Assessment registration service and streamlining the exit process for those customers who no longer need to file a Self Assessment tax return
    • expanding the rollout of the voice biometrics pilot to make customer verification easier when calling HMRC’s helplines
    • a new service to give employed parents, who are newly liable for the High Income Child Benefit Charge, the choice to pay it directly through their tax code without needing to register for Self Assessment
    • launching an enhanced reward scheme for informants, targeting information on serious non‑compliance in large corporates, wealthy individuals, offshore and avoidance schemes. The new scheme will reward informants with compensation linked to a percentage of any tax taken

    Further measures and projects to be delivered as part of the roadmap include:

    • digitalising the Inheritance Tax service to provide a modern, easy-to-use system, that makes submitting returns and paying tax simpler and quicker.
    • launching a new service to allow agents to digitally submit information which may impact their client’s tax code
    • delivering a Digital Disclosure Service to allow customers and intermediaries to correct mistakes, pay liabilities and penalties for all taxes and duties
    • introducing an electronic trade documentation pilot to see how it could improve customs operations
    • progressing the Verifiable Credentials pilot with US Customs and Border Protection to test the use of new internationally interoperable digital credentials and identity standards

    HMRC wants to incentivise taxpayers to pay their tax on time by simplifying and strengthening penalties. In the 2023 to 2024 tax year, HMRC collected 94.7% of the total tax due. Those who meet their obligations and pay their tax on time should not be disadvantaged by the minority who don’t follow the rules. HMRC will update on modernising behavioural penalties later this year.

    New legislation will come into effect from April 2026 to tackle tax avoidance and fraud by umbrella companies. Many umbrella companies operate within the law but the dishonest few can mean taxpayers are left with large and unexpected tax bills. The legislation will make recruitment agencies that use umbrella companies legally responsible for accounting for PAYE on workers’ pay.

    Further information

    The Transformation Roadmap can be found on GOV.UK.

    The new AI principles for organisations who interact with HMRC and the tax administration system will be informed by government AI and GenAI frameworks.

    Updates to this page

    Published 21 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government initial response to Independent Water Commission’s final report

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    Government initial response to Independent Water Commission’s final report

    Environment Secretary Steve Reed sets out the government’s initial response to the Independent Water Commission final report, led by Sir Jon Cunliffe.

    Good morning everyone. Welcome to this beautiful venue.

    I’ve just watched Sir Jon Cunliffe’s statement presenting his report.

    I’d like to start by thanking Sir Jon Cunliffe and his team for the huge amount of work they have put into reviewing the regulation of our water industry.

    He’s produced an outstanding report that I will respond to in more detail in the House of Commons this afternoon. But I’d like to make some initial comments now.

    It is clear the water industry is broken.  

    Our rivers, lakes and seas are polluted with record levels of sewage.  

    Water pipes have been left to crumble into disrepair.  

    Soaring water bills are straining family finances. 

    There are hosepipe bans across the country right now because not a single new reservoir has been built in over 30 years,  

    The lack of water infrastructure is holding back economic growth. 

    Water companies have been allowed to profit at the expense of the British people when they should have been investing to fix our broken water pipes.  

    A broken regulatory system let them get away with this.    

    Failing customers, investors and the environment.   

    The public expressed their fury in last year’s General Election, and they voted for change.     That change will now come.   

    In just one year, this government has put in place the building blocks to clean up our rivers, lakes and seas.  

    First, we restored accountability by giving the regulators more teeth with a ban on unfair bonuses, severe and automatic penalties for breaking the law, and jail sentences for serious offences.    

    Second, we have launched one of the biggest infrastructure projects in British history to clean up our rivers, lakes and seas.  

    £104 billion pounds of private sector investment will rebuild the entire water network.  

    Upgrading crumbling pipes, repairing leaks and building new sewage treatment works around the country. 

    This is the biggest-ever investment in the water sector’s history and it allows me to make a new commitment to the country:  

    This government will cut water companies’ sewage pollution in half within five years. 

    This is the most ambitious sewage target the government has ever set.  

    Over a decade of national renewal, we will restore our rivers, lakes and seas to good health. 

    The third building block for change is today’s final report from Sir Jon Cunliffe’s Independent Water Commission.   

    It offers a blueprint for fixing our broken regulatory system so the failures of the past can never happen again.   

    I agree that water regulation has been too weak and too ineffective.   

    Having four separate regulators with overlapping and conflicting remits has created a merry-go-round that has failed customers and the environment.   

    Ofwat has failed to protect customers from water companies’ mismanagement of their hard-earned money.   

    Today I can announce that the Labour Government will abolish Ofwat.   

    In the biggest overhaul of water regulation in a generation we will bring water functions from four different regulators into one:  A single powerful regulator responsible for the entire water sector.   

    There are four further recommendations that the government can accept immediately and I will outline these in Parliament this afternoon.

    The new regulator will stand firmly on the side of customers, investors and the environment and prevent the abuses of the past. 

    For customers, it will oversee investment and maintenance so hardworking British families are never again hit by the shocking bill hikes we saw last year as customers paid the price of 14 years of failure by the previous government. 

    For investors, it will end the tangle of ineffective regulation and provide the clarity and direction required for a strong

    partnership between Government, the sector and investors to attract billions of pounds of new funding. 

    For the environment, it will cut all forms of pollution to clean up our rivers, lakes and seas for good.   

    We will legislate to set up the new regulator, and I will provide more details of this in Parliament later today. 

    Ofwat will remain in place during the transition to the new regulator and I will ensure they provide the right leadership to oversee the current price review and investment plan during that time. 

    This Labour Government was elected to clean up water pollution.   

    We now have all the building blocks in place to make that happen.   

    This is our chance to make sure our children – and their children – can create the same wonderful memories we remember from our childhoods.  

    Splashing about in the waves on a beach, rowing along a river, without having to worry about toxic sewage pollution.  

    Today marks the start of a water revolution. 

    We are establishing a new partnership where water companies, investors, communities and the government will work together to clean up our rivers, lakes and seas for good.

    Updates to this page

    Published 21 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Presidents of Kyrgyzstan and Mongolia discussed key areas of bilateral cooperation

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    BISHKEK, July 21 (Xinhua) — Talks were held in Bishkek on Monday between Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov and Mongolian President Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh as part of the latter’s state visit to the Kyrgyz Republic, the Kyrgyz president’s Telegram channel reported.

    The parties discussed key areas of bilateral cooperation, including politics, trade and economics, transport and agriculture. Particular attention was paid to digitalization, the development of cultural and humanitarian ties and tourism.

    S. Japarov emphasized that Kyrgyzstan and Mongolia are states historically linked by ties of friendship, the roots of which go back to ancient times. “Comprehensive cooperation with Mongolia is one of the priority areas of development of Kyrgyzstan’s foreign policy,” he noted.

    The President of Kyrgyzstan expressed confidence that the visit of the head of Mongolia will give a powerful impetus to further strengthening political dialogue, expanding trade and economic ties and developing cultural and humanitarian cooperation.

    In turn, U. Khurelsukh emphasized that this visit provides a good opportunity to jointly with the President of Kyrgyzstan to sum up the 30-year path of bilateral relations, assess the implementation of the agreements reached, and also determine priority areas and prospects for cooperation filled with specific economic content.

    “For Mongolia, Kyrgyzstan is an important partner in Central Asia and a kind of bridge connecting the region. We strive to develop mutually beneficial cooperation in all areas, especially in the trade and economic sphere,” the President of Mongolia noted.

    Following the talks, the heads of the two states signed a Joint Declaration on the establishment of a comprehensive partnership between Kyrgyzstan and Mongolia, as well as a number of other documents aimed at increasing cooperation. –0–

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Annual inflation at 2.7 percent in June 2025 – Stats NZ media and information release: Consumers price index: June 2025 quarter

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Relief funds available to farmers

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Local farmers who suffered serious losses caused by the recent Typhoon Wipha can register for assistance from an emergency relief fund from July 22 to 30.

    The Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation Department made this announcement today and explained that its preliminary investigation had revealed that about 300 hectares of farmland in the New Territories were affected by Typhoon Wipha.

    An appropriate amount of the relief fund will be released to affected farmers according to established criteria, it added.

    Affected farmers who need to apply for the fund can register in person at the department’s Agricultural Extension Office at 5/F, Yuen Long Government Offices, or submit their applications online.

    Enquiries can be made by calling 2476 2424 during office hours.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Why it can be harder to sleep during the summer

    Source: Anglia Ruskin University

    By Timothy Hearn, Anglia Ruskin University

    As the days stretch long and the sun lingers late into the evening, most of us welcome summer with open arms. Yet for a surprising number of people, this season brings an unwelcome guest: insomnia.

    For these people, summer is a time of tossing and turning, early waking – or simply not feeling sleepy when they should. Far from just being a nuisance, this seasonal insomnia may chip away at mood, concentration and metabolic health.

    But why does insomnia spike in summer — and more importantly, what can be done about it? The answer lies in the light.

    Every tissue in the body owns a molecular “clock”. However, these clocks take their cue from a central timekeeper – the brain’s suprachiasmatic nucleus. This cluster of about 20,000 neurons synchronises the myriad cellular clocks to a near 24-hour cycle.

    It uses the external light detected by the eyes as a cue, driving the release of two different hormones: melatonin, which makes us sleepy and a pre-dawn surge cortisol to help us wake.

    In winter, this light cue is short and sharp. But in June and July, daylight can stretch on for 16 or 17 hours in the mid‑latitudes. That extra dose matters because evening light is the most potent signal for pushing the central timekeeper later. In summer melatonin shifts by roughly 30 minutes to an hour later, while dawn light floods bedrooms early and kills the hormone off sooner.

    This can have a big effect on the amount of sleep we get. One study monitored the sleep of 188 participants in the lab on three nights at different times of the year. The researchers found that total sleep was about an hour shorter in summer than winter.

    Rapid eye movement (REM) sleep — the sleep stage most strongly linked to emotional regulation and the consolidation of emotionally charged memories — accounted for roughly half the sleep loss in summer.

    The same team later tracked 377 patients over two consecutive years and showed that sleep length and REM sleep began a five‑month decline soon after the last freezing night of spring. Sleep length shrank by an average of 62 minutes, while REM decreased by about 24 minutes. Slow-wave sleep – the phase most critical for tissue repair, immune regulation and the consolidation of factual memories – reached its annual low around the autumn equinox.

    Both studies took place in a city bathed in artificial light – suggesting that even in modern environments our sleep remains seasonally affected.

    Big population surveys echo these findings. Among more than 30,000 middle‑aged Canadians, volunteers interviewed in midsummer said they slept eight minutes less than those interviewed in midwinter. The summer interviewees also reported greater insomnia symptoms in the fortnight after the autumn clock change – suggesting the abrupt time shift exacerbates underlying seasonal misalignment.

    One study also compared the effect of summer sleep in people living at very different latitudes – such as near the equator, where there’s little change in day length in the summer, and near the Arctic circle, where the differences are extreme. The study found that for people living in Tromsø, Norway, their self-reported insomnia and daytime fatigue rose markedly in summer. But for people living in Accra, Ghana (near the equator), these measures barely budged.

    This show just how strongly daylight – and the amount of daylight hours we experience – can affect our sleep quality. But it isn’t the only culprit of poor summertime sleep.

    Temperature is another factor that can spoil sleep during the summer months.

    Just before we fall asleep, our core body temperature begins a steep descent of roughly 1°C to help us fall asleep. It reaches its lowest point during the first half of the night.

    On muggy summer nights this can make falling asleep difficult. Laboratory experiments show that even a rise from 26°C to about 32°C increases wakefulness and reduces both slow-wave and REM sleep.

    Different people are also more vulnerable to summer insomnia than others. This has to do with your unique “chronotype” – your natural preference to rise early or sleep late.

    Evening chronotypes – “night owls” – already lean towards later bedtimes. They may stay up even later when it stays bright past 10pm. Morning chronotypes, on the other hand, may find themselves waking up even earlier than they normally do because of when the sun rises in the summer.

    Mood can amplify the effect. Research found people who suffered with mental health issues were more likely to experience difficulty sleeping in summer.

    Chronic anxiety, alcohol use and certain prescription drugs — notably beta blockers, which suppress melatonin — can all make sleep more elusive in summer.

    Reclaiming summer sleep

    Happily, there are many ways of fixing the issue.

    • Get some morning sunshine. Try to step outside within an hour of waking up – even if it’s just for 15 minutes. This tells the clock that the day has begun and nudges it to finish earlier that evening.

    • Create an artificial dusk. Around two hours before bed, close the curtains, turn off the lights and reduce the intensity of your phone screen’s blue light to help your melatonin rise on time.

    • Don’t let the dawn light in. Being exposed to the dawn light too early will wake you up. Blackout curtains or a contoured eye-mask can ensure you don’t wake before you’re rested.

    • Keep things cool. Fans, breathable cotton or linen sheets or a lukewarm shower before bed all help the body to achieve that crucial one-degree drop in core temperature needed to get a good night’s sleep.

    The deeper lesson here from chronobiology is that humans remain, biologically speaking, seasonal animals. While our industrialised lives flatten the calendar, our cells still measure day length and temperature just as plants and migratory birds do.

    By adapting and aligning our habits with those light signals, we might just be able to recapture some sleep – even during the warmer months.

    Timothy Hearn, Senior Lecturer in Bioinformatics, Anglia Ruskin University

    This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

    The opinions expressed in VIEWPOINT articles are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of ARU.

    If you wish to republish this article, please follow these guidelines: https://theconversation.com/uk/republishing-guidelines

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Grand ambition calls on city’s musicians to revive Victorian golden oldies

    Source: City of Leeds

    They were the boisterous barroom ballads that once rattled the rafters of Victorian music halls across Leeds.

    Now librarians are calling on the city’s modern-day musicians and singers to help them bring an incredible collection of vintage sheet music to life for the first time in more than a century.

    The array of late 19th and early 20th century songs is part of a vast collection at Leeds Central Library, which includes a combination of well-known musical classics alongside forgotten songs penned by local composers.

    Usually having comic, satirical or political themes, the raucous melodies would have been a hit with the eager crowds who packed into music halls and theatres which were hugely popular at the turn of the 20th century.

    With a small selection of sheet music currently on display outside the building’s newly refurbished music library, the search is now on for pianists and vocalists to perform more pieces at a series of events planned to celebrate Heritage Open Days this September.

    The library is keen to hear from local pianists and singers who think they can take on the challenge of performing the historic hits, some of which have not been played in more than a hundred years.

    Tunes which make up the collection include famed classics such as Ride a Cock Horse, billed as a “drawing room comic song” performed by Harry Liston, and George Leybourne’s “great comic song” The Organ Man which he both wrote and performed.

    They are joined by titles including The Parson and the Clerk, sung by G H MacDermott and The Mouse-Trap Man, also by George Leybourne.

    Other highlights include Mr and Mrs Baggs, described as “a most thrilling narrative giving an account of the frightful apparition, the appearance of which so affected Mrs B’s nerves that she was laid up for seven weeks after.”

    The front cover shows the eponymous, pyjama clad Mr Baggs brandishing a blunderbuss at a terrified cat as his horrified wife looks on.

    Lee Noon, music librarian at Leeds Central Library, said: “Music hall tunes like these were once a hugely popular part of leisure and entertainment in cities like Leeds, and would have been enjoyed by people of all different classes and backgrounds- they were very much the pop songs of their day.

    “Many of these songs won’t have been performed or heard by an audience for more than a century now, and we’d love to give people in Leeds the chance to experience them again and for our local musicians to try and recapture a bit of what was really the golden age of music halls.

    “Each of these pieces of music represents a little bit of the city’s musical history and it would be a really special moment to help bring them back to life again.”

    The music hall songs are just one element of Leeds Central Library’s huge collection of sheet music. One of the biggest collections in the UK, the library loans pieces to orchestras and musical institutions across the country.

    As well as a piano available to use, the building’s newly refurbished music library also includes specially created walk-in recording studios and podcasting facilities.

    Councillor Mary Harland, Leeds City Council’s executive member for communities, customer service and community safety, said: “Our music library and its collection is an incredible resource for the city and a great example of the multi-faceted role which libraries have in our city and its communities.

    “Having such a historic and unique array of music housed in Leeds is a real privilege and it will be wonderful if we can involve local talent in performing some pieces to celebrate the city and its heritage.”

    Any pianists, singers and groups interested in performing some of the pieces this September can contact lee.noon@leeds.gov.uk using the subject line “Heritage Week Piano.”

    More information about Leeds Central Library including facilities and opening hours can be found at: Central Library | Leeds Library

    ENDS

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Health bosses won’t be rewarded for failure under new regulations

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 2

    Press release

    Health bosses won’t be rewarded for failure under new regulations

    NHS managers who commit serious misconduct won’t be able to take up other senior NHS roles, under plans to boost patient safety.

    • Managers who commit serious misconduct will be banned under proposals
    • Patients to benefit from proposals to professionalise NHS management
    • Whistleblowers will be protected under new regulations

    NHS managers who commit serious misconduct won’t be able to take up other senior NHS roles, under plans to boost patient safety.

    The new proposals set out by the Department of Health and Social Care will mean any leader who silences whistleblowers or behaves unacceptably will be banned from returning to a health service position.

    They set out the first steps to meet the government’s commitment to introduce professional standards for, and regulation of, NHS managers, with legislation set to be put forward to Parliament next year.

    Tens of thousands of clinical and non-clinical managers work in the NHS but there is currently no regulatory framework specifically for managers, like there is for doctors and nurses.

    Wes Streeting, Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, said:

    I’m determined to create a culture of honesty and openness in the NHS where whistleblowers are protected, and that demands tough enforcement. If you silence whistleblowers, you will never work in the NHS again. We’ve got to create the conditions where staff are free to come forward and sound the alarm when things go wrong. Protecting the reputation of the NHS should never be put before protecting patient safety.

    I promised no more rewards for failure in the NHS, and these measures will deliver on it. Most NHS leaders are doing a fantastic job, but we need to stop the revolving door that allows managers sacked for misconduct or incompetence to be quietly moved to another well-paid role in another part of the NHS.

    The reforms we are making through our Plan for Change will slam the door in the face of unsuitable managers, while providing the training, support, and development to help NHS leaders thrive and lead the NHS into a brighter future.

    Reviews by Tom Kark KC, General Sir Gordon Messenger and the Infected Blood Inquiry all highlighted the need for strong, transparent and accountable leadership.

    The new proposals, developed following a public consultation, will strengthen health service leadership and professionalise NHS management as part of the 10 Year Health Plan.

    The consultation, launched in November last year, received more than 4,900 contributions on ways in which managers and leaders could be regulated.

    In response, the government will develop a proportionate regulatory system that focuses where need is greatest. It will ensure that those who have committed serious misconduct are no longer able to work in senior NHS management positions, preventing unacceptable behaviour and improving patient safety. 

    The statutory barring system will be for board-level directors and their direct reports within NHS bodies.

    Further legislation will set out new statutory powers for the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) to disbar NHS leaders in senior roles who have committed serious misconduct.

    Separate NHSE professional standards for managers will establish a consistent, national set of expectations about NHS management and leadership competency and conduct.

    This follows last year’s announcement of a new College of Executive and Clinical Leadership to attract, develop and keep the best talent in NHS leadership.

    Regulation will come alongside support and development, with managers being given the tools they need to meet standards and succeed in their roles.

    Sam Allen, NHS National Director for Leadership and Management, said: 

    The 10 Year Health Plan was clear about the huge importance of excellent leadership and management, both to the quality of patient care and staff experience now, and to how we deliver the plan’s ambitions for the future.

    Managers will welcome this new regulatory framework, as part of the broader package of actions set out in the Plan to attract, develop, and retain the best possible leaders for the NHS of today and tomorrow.

    Accountability is a crucial part of this, and can only boost trust with patients, the public and other professionals.

    Tom Kark KC, author of the Kark Review, said:

    I am pleased that the recommendation made in my report into the application of the NHS Fit and Proper Person Test to create a power to disqualify Board Directors found guilty of serious misconduct is being implemented. 

    Along with the ongoing implementation of my other recommendations for improving Board competence, this is a positive move to strengthen management in the NHS by weeding out poor leadership.  This is good news for whistleblowers and those looking for accountability in senior management which has long been lacking.

    Rachel Power, chief executive of The Patients Association, said:

    Patients have told us they expect NHS managers to be held to the same high standards as clinical staff, and that should include consistent regulation. A clear, fair process to prevent those who commit serious misconduct from returning to senior roles will be an important step forward, and it’s vital that patient involvement continues to shape proposals as further regulation is considered.

    We’re pleased to see a commitment to meaningful support and development for NHS managers, because the best way to address serious failings is to help prevent them from happening in the first place.

    The proposals come as part of a package of essential reforms needed to rebuild the NHS so it is fit for the future through the government’s Plan for Change.

    Updates to this page

    Published 21 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Government to improve rules for building crab boats

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – Government of the Russian Federation –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Document

    Resolution of July 17, 2025 No. 1075

    The government has amended the requirements for crab boat construction projects under the investment quota mechanism. After the agreement with the previous investor is terminated, new companies will be able to begin completing the vessels under the same conditions.

    The government has amended the requirements for projects to build crab vessels under the investment quota mechanism

    “The fishing shipbuilding industry is currently on the rise, including thanks to the deep modernization of production. The “keel quota” mechanism has restarted the process of creating a Russian fishing fleet. The amendments adopted by the Russian Government will allow us to quickly respond to changes in the situation and, in the event of shipbuilding companies or investors withdrawing from projects, without losing momentum, to involve other participants – for the successful and timely completion of the construction of new crab vessels,” said Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Patrushev.

    The practice of recent years has shown that the existing regulatory framework made it difficult to complete the construction of crab vessels. If the agreements were terminated for any reason, then upon completion of construction it was impossible to ensure compliance with current requirements for industrial products and the conclusion of new investment contracts for the completion of such vessels. The discrepancy was identified during meetings in the format of incident No. 42 “Fishing vessels” chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Patrushev. Thus, the changes introduced by the Government will allow new contracts to be concluded with investors for the freed up shares of the investment quota.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Deputy Minister of Economic Development inspected the infrastructure of the Mamison resort

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Ministry of Economic Development (Russia) – Ministry of Economic Development (Russia) –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    On July 17, 2025, Deputy Minister of Economic Development of Russia Sergey Nazarov visited North Ossetia on a working visit. The main point of the trip was the all-season tourist and recreational complex “Mamison”, where an off-site meeting was held with the participation of the Minister of Economic Development of the Republic of North Ossetia Alania Marat Sokayev and representatives of “Kavkaz.RF”.

    During the meeting, key areas of further development of the resort were discussed, including the pace of construction of facilities and connection to utility networks. Sergey Nazarov inspected the transport, utilities and tourism infrastructure, including ski slopes, hotels, glampings and tent camps. In addition, the meeting participants tested the new Mamihdon trail from the upper cable car station to the tent camp (length over 4 km).

    Today, the resort has two cable cars, 14 km of ski slopes, hotels, cafes and year-round recreation facilities. Due to the national project “Tourism and Hospitality Industry”, 590 million rubles were allocated for infrastructure development in 2023-2024. In 2025-2027, financing in the amount of 150 million rubles is planned.

    Construction and installation works at the 110/10 kV Mamison substation have been fully completed. In December 2024, an agreement was concluded between JSC Kavkaz.RF and PJSC Rosseti North Caucasus, ensuring the technological connection of the resort facilities. The redistribution of capacity in the amount of 4480 kW allows for the launch of the infrastructure in normal mode.

    The main gas pipeline, 14.5 km long, is 90% complete, and 100% within the resort. Gas supply via this route is expected in the fourth quarter of 2025.

    The water intake unit with a capacity of 4,500 m³/day has been operating since 2014 and was transferred to the balance of the republican water utility in 2024. The resort is connected to the centralized water supply according to a temporary scheme: water comes directly from wells, bypassing reservoirs. This ensures the functioning of the facilities, but requires additional measures to modernize the system.

    “The creation of the Mamison resort is not only a contribution to the tourist attractiveness of North Ossetia, but also to the development of the entire economy of the region. Over the past two years, we have managed to overcome infrastructure barriers and move to the stage of stable operation. Today, the task is to ensure the stable operation of all engineering systems, involve investors and continue the comprehensive development of the resort,” emphasized Sergey Nazarov.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: State-owned companies’ purchases from SMEs exceeded 3.8 trillion rubles in the first half of 2025

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Ministry of Economic Development (Russia) – Ministry of Economic Development (Russia) –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    According to the results of the first half of 2025, the volume of purchases by government customers from small and medium-sized businesses under Federal Law 223 amounted to more than 3.8 trillion rubles, and the number of contracts exceeded 428 thousand. Almost 150 thousand SMEs became suppliers, which is 4.4% more than a year earlier.

    “The participation of small and medium-sized businesses in state-owned company purchases gives them access to a stable sales market. We see how the number of SME suppliers increases year after year and the range of purchased products expands. If earlier small businesses mainly purchased office supplies, furniture or paper, now it is increasingly industrial products. This indicates that small businesses are able to meet the demand of large companies in terms of quality and volume. Compared to the same period last year, the number of SME suppliers who concluded contracts as a result of state purchases increased by more than 6.3 thousand and reached almost 150 thousand from all regions of Russia. By the end of 2025, the total volume of purchases from SMEs may exceed 9 trillion rubles,” said Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation Alexander Novak.

    Alexander Novak emphasized the need to meet the payment deadlines for contracts with small and medium businesses. According to him, this is of strategic importance, since timely payments ensure the stability of SMEs, preventing cash flow gaps and creating conditions for the development of enterprises.

    The leading regions in terms of the amount of purchases from small and medium businesses were Moscow (more than 1.2 trillion rubles), St. Petersburg (345 billion rubles), the Republic of Tatarstan (almost 250 billion rubles), Moscow Region (more than 200 billion rubles) and Sverdlovsk Region (almost 130 billion rubles).

    “We are noting the positive dynamics of growth in the volume of purchases from small and medium-sized businesses in a number of regions. The Republic of Tatarstan showed significant growth – almost 25 billion rubles, Samara and Rostov regions – more than 24 and 23 billion, respectively, the Donetsk People’s Republic – over 12 billion rubles, as well as the Yaroslavl region – more than 11.5 billion. The top ten leaders in terms of the rate of increase in purchases also included Primorsky Krai, Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug – with volumes of over 11.3 billion rubles, the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) – 11.3 billion, as well as the Irkutsk Region and the Udmurt Republic, where volumes exceeded 9 billion rubles. These results are an indicator of the active involvement of SMEs in the public procurement system and a reflection of targeted work to develop entrepreneurship in the regions,” commented Deputy Minister of Economic Development of Russia Tatyana Ilyushnikova.

    For companies with state participation, there is a mandatory 25% quota for purchases from small and medium-sized businesses. It was established by the Government of the Russian Federation, and compliance is monitored by the SME Corporation and regional government agencies. Expanding the participation of small and medium-sized businesses in purchases under Federal Law No. 223 is one of the objectives of the federal project “Small and Medium-sized Entrepreneurship” of the national project “Efficient and Competitive Economy”.

    “Based on the results of the first half of 2025, manufacturing products came out on top in terms of purchase volumes from SME suppliers. Over the course of six months, the largest customers purchased over 1.3 trillion rubles worth of them. This is an important trend both for assessing the state of the SME sector in terms of competencies in supplying industrial products, including high-tech ones, and for continuing the qualitative growth of the segment. The leading industries also included services for scientific, engineering, technical and professional activities (209.1 billion rubles), as well as IT, where the purchase volume amounted to 170 billion rubles,” said Alexander Isaevich, CEO of the SME Corporation.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Chernyshenko: The plan for the Decade of Science and Technology is aimed at achieving technological leadership

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – Government of the Russian Federation –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    A meeting of the Coordination Committee for the Decade of Science and Technology was held under the chairmanship of Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko. Participants discussed the interim results of the Decade’s initiatives for 2025 and preparations for the V Congress of Young Scientists.

    “The Decade of Science and Technology, announced by President Vladimir Putin, is aimed at strengthening the role of science and technology in solving key development problems of the country. Its main goal is to achieve technological leadership of Russia. To achieve this, a special plan has been developed, which provides for the popularization of modern scientific knowledge and obtaining a real socio-economic effect. One of the main annual events – the Congress of Young Scientists – has been included in the national project “Youth and Children” since this year. The event will traditionally bring together representatives of the scientific community, business leaders, as well as representatives of state and public organizations from Russia and other countries,” said Deputy Prime Minister, Co-Chairman of the Coordination Committee for the Decade of Science and Technology Dmitry Chernyshenko.

    Last year, more than 7,000 people from 85 regions of Russia and abroad took part in the Congress of Young Scientists.

    The Decade’s initiatives strengthen the human resources potential of the scientific and technological sphere.

    “Holding the Decade of Science and Technology in Russia is, of course, a very important initiative of the President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin. It is aimed at popularizing scientific achievements and creating conditions for doing science. I believe that the organizers and all participants of the Decade of Science and Technology are, on the whole, successfully coping with these tasks,” said Gennady Krasnikov, President of the Russian Academy of Sciences.

    Minister of Education and Science Valery Falkov noted that the Decade of Science and Technology forms the correct perception of science and the profession of a scientist. According to surveys, the proportion of parents who welcome their children’s choice of a career in the scientific field is increasing, now there are more than 60%.

    “We also see a growing interest among young people in engineering specialties, which is associated with the extensive work within the Decade of Science and Technology. Compared to 2022, admission to engineering programs in 2024 increased by 7% – from 213 thousand to 228 thousand people,” the minister emphasized.

    Deputy Minister of Science and Higher Education Denis Sekirinsky reported that scientific volunteering is developing, the study of the legacy of the Soviet scientific school continues, the network of scientific playgrounds for children is expanding – today there are 55 of them in 41 cities in Russia. In the “Science and Innovation” domain, 26 services are available for the research community. In Russia, 12 new routes for popular science tourism have been launched in the regions, and in general, there are 87 of them in the country.

    “Since the beginning of 2025, more than 3,000 events of the Decade of Science and Technology have been held, reaching more than 4 million people. This reflects the scale of the work done and sets a high bar for the second half of the year. The development of existing formats continues, new areas are emerging so that more and more young people see science as an opportunity for professional growth and participation in the future of the country,” he said.

    Sofia Malyavina, Director General, spoke about the work of the operator of the Decade of Science and Technology, ANO National Priorities: “Since the beginning of the Decade of Science and Technology in 2022, we have organized more than a hundred excursions and lectures “Science is Nearby”, created dozens of thematic TV projects and podcasts, and attracted over 100 thousand schoolchildren and students to participate in competitions. Since the beginning of 2025 alone, over 24 thousand publications about science have been published – on television, radio, in the press, and online. Interest in this topic is growing, and our task is to ensure that as many people as possible learn about scientific achievements and the specialists behind them.”

    The head of Rosmolodezh Grigory Gurov noted that the scientific volunteer community consists of more than 60 thousand people, and in 2025, more than 3 thousand volunteers joined it: “Rosmolodezh, together with the “Movement of the First”, is implementing the direction “Science and Technology. “DARE AND DISCOVER”, which helps popularize science among children and young people, including through the flagship project “First in Science”. This year, we plan to launch at least 600 “First” scientific clubs in 30 pilot regions. We support young people who strive to develop in science, we create conditions so that children and young people can implement their ideas and propose innovative projects within the framework of the national project “Youth and Children”, launched on the initiative of the President of Russia.”

    Anton Kobyakov, Advisor to the President and Head of the Interdepartmental Working Group for the Preparation and Holding of the Congress of Young Scientists and Associated Events, spoke about the preparations for the anniversary V Congress of Young Scientists to be held on November 26–28, 2025.

    “Special attention in 2025 is being paid to expanding the international component of the Congress of Young Scientists – active work is underway to invite foreign scientists from friendly countries to participate in the congress. As part of the international promotion, the congress was presented at external communication platforms, including off-site events and presentation sessions of the SPIEF in Mexico, Turkey, India, and Arab countries. Also this year, the partner of the invitation campaign is Friends for Leadership – an association created following the XIX World Festival of Youth and Students, which operates in 130 countries. As a result of the work, to date, more than 1.6 thousand participants have submitted applications to participate in the congress,” said Anton Kobyakov.

    Among the innovations of the upcoming congress, the Presidential Advisor named the holding of the BRICS Social and Humanitarian Research Forum on the sidelines of the congress. In addition, exhibition clusters dedicated to industry, technological development, healthcare, ecology, and digitalization will be organized within the framework of the congress exhibition.

    The Director General of the State Corporation Rosatom, Alexey Likhachev, spoke about the events of the V Congress of Young Scientists related to the topic of the atom and the 80th anniversary of the nuclear industry.

    The Governor of the Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Okrug Dmitry Artyukhov paid attention to the regional experience of implementing the Decade’s initiatives.

    The director of the National Center “Russia” Natalia Virtuozova spoke about the activities of the National Center “Russia” to implement the tasks of the Decade. According to her, one of the strategic areas was the popularization of science fiction – through exhibition projects, international discussion platforms and educational programs. The flagship of this work was the international symposium “Creating the Future”.

    The head of the Educational Foundation “Talent and Success” Elena Shmeleva, the rector of the Lomonosov Moscow State University Viktor Sadovnichy, the rector of the Presidential Academy Alexey Komissarov put forward a number of proposals for holding projects and events within the framework of the Decade and the Congress of Young Scientists.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Marat Khusnullin: About 2.5 million square meters of asphalt concrete were laid during the reconstruction of a section of the M-3 “Ukraine” highway

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – Government of the Russian Federation –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    On the federal highway M-3 “Ukraine” the implementation of a large-scale project to reconstruct the section from the 65th km to the 124th km in the Kaluga region continues

    On the federal highway M-3 “Ukraine” the implementation of a large-scale project to reconstruct the section from the 65th km to the 124th km from the village of Bekasovo in the Moscow region to the city of Maloyaroslavets in the Kaluga region continues. To date, a total of about 2.5 million square meters of asphalt concrete have been laid at the site. This was reported by Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin.

    “Road renovation is necessary to improve transport accessibility in the regions. This increases the comfort of people’s lives, road safety and stimulates territorial development. On the M-3 “Ukraine” highway, reconstruction of the section from the 65th to the 124th km from the village of Bekasovo in the Moscow region to the city of Maloyaroslavets in the Kaluga region is ongoing. From the 65th to the 102nd km, three lanes will be arranged in each direction, from the 102nd to the 124th km – two lanes. In addition, secondary passages for local transport will appear in populated areas. During the reconstruction, overhead pedestrian crossings and interchanges will be built to eliminate intersections with other roads at the same level. High-speed traffic without traffic lights will be ensured. This will allow transit transport to pass freely without interfering with the movement of residents of Naro-Fominsk, Balabanovo and Obninsk. The reconstruction work is carried out in two stages and is distributed across the territories of the two regions. A total of about 2.5 million square meters of asphalt concrete has already been laid at the site, which is 553 thousand. t,” said Marat Khusnullin.

    The Deputy Prime Minister added that the roadbed construction work on the section from the 65th to the 86th km is nearing completion, the road surface is 68% complete – this is 353 thousand tons of asphalt concrete layers. All three interchanges are currently being actively built. The overall readiness on the first section from the 65th to the 86th km within the Moscow Region is 65%, and on the second section on the territory of the Kaluga Region from the 86th to the 124th km, the work has been completed by 25% of the planned volume.

    Also, 28 km of parapet fencing out of the planned 39 km have been installed here today. At the same time, the installation of culverts is at a high level of readiness.

    On the section from the 86th to the 124th km, 1.19 million cubic meters of roadbed were filled, 200 thousand tons of asphalt concrete were installed. Also, specialists began construction of reinforced soil embankments, which pass through the entire city of Balabanovo and partially through the city of Obninsk.

    The head of the state company Avtodor, Vyacheslav Petushenko, specified that a total of 33 artificial structures are being erected at the site. These are bridges, overpasses, an overpass, and overground pedestrian crossings.

    “The first stage of reconstruction in the Moscow Region involves the construction of eight artificial structures, five of which are in a high state of readiness. It should be noted that in general in this region we have reached the final stage of construction and installation works. As for the second stage, on the site within the borders of the Kaluga Region it is planned to build 25 artificial structures, including 15 overpasses, one flyover, three bridges and six overground pedestrian crossings. It is noteworthy that the spans of these overground pedestrian crossings are made of wood-composite materials, ensuring their environmental friendliness. Work is currently underway on 23 structures. At the same time, we are building reinforced soil retaining walls in Balabanovo and Obninsk with overpasses providing passage for local residents,” noted Vyacheslav Petushenko.

    Currently, over a thousand people and more than 300 units of special equipment are involved in the project.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Grigorenko: More than a third of the first wave of industrial competence center projects have been successfully completed

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – Government of the Russian Federation –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Within the framework of industrial competence centers, the implementation of 66 IT products of the first wave has been completed. They have already been implemented by more than 500 Russian and foreign companies – from chain retailers to airports and nuclear industry enterprises. More than 135 thousand jobs have been transferred to domestic software solutions that were implemented within the framework of the ICC.

    In total, the first wave of particularly significant projects included 150 solutions that replace foreign software used in key sectors of the economy. Among the completed developments are 59 projects implemented using the companies’ own funds, as well as 7 projects implemented with the involvement of grant funds.

    “We are faced with the task of developing, including with government support, IT products that are not inferior in functionality to foreign ones, so that it would be interesting and profitable for businesses to implement them. And judging by the completed projects of the first wave, such mature domestic solutions exist. They have gone beyond the pilot stage and are already used by hundreds of companies,” said Deputy Prime Minister – Chief of the Government Staff Dmitry Grigorenko.

    Among the completed solutions that are most actively replicated is the creation of a software and hardware complex (operating system, office software, browser, antivirus) designed to automate the activities of specialists (a project commissioned and funded by Rosatom State Corporation). It is necessary to transfer automated workstations that previously used Microsoft to domestic software. During the project, more than 133 thousand workstations of 150 nuclear industry organizations were transferred to Russian software. The active replication of the project continues.

    Another development within the framework of the ICC, which has already been implemented and is in great demand among Russian companies, is the Russian loyalty system Loyalty 2.0 for retail outlets. It has already been implemented by more than 50 Russian companies, such as Magnit, Domashniy Interier (Hoff), Dixie, Medsi, Rive Gauche, as well as three foreign companies. The solution uses data on customer purchases and preferences to create personalized offers and manage marketing campaigns. The system allows processing more than 6 thousand customer requests every second. The developer’s revenue from sales of the solution amounted to about 1 billion rubles.

    The solutions that showed the best sales revenue figures also included a digital platform for field design commissioned by JSC Rosgeo. The solution was developed with the help of grant funds. It is already being used in 33 companies. The solution’s sales revenue amounted to almost 160 million rubles (340% of the grant amount), and the return on government investment in the form of taxes was more than 72 million rubles (154% of the grant amount).

    In total, about 200 particularly significant projects are currently being implemented in Russia within the framework of the ICC. Most of the first wave projects will be implemented by the end of 2026. In May 2025, the second wave of ICC projects was launched. Within its framework, 49 projects were selected and supported. 17 of them received grant funding in the amount of 3.2 billion rubles. Completion of the implementation of most of the second wave projects is planned for the end of 2027.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –