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Category: DJF

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – Vote on the European Sports Model – Committee on Culture and Education

    Source: European Parliament

    The Committee on Culture and Education (CULT) will adopt its report on the European Sport Model during its 16 July 2025 meeting. Drafted by Rapporteur Bogdan Zdrojewski (EPP), the report responds to growing threats such as commercialisation and foreign ownership, calling for stronger EU action to protect solidarity, good governance, and grassroots development.

    Key proposals include clearer EU legal guidance, improved financial redistribution, and a new social dialogue committee for professional sport. The report also urges greater inclusion, transparency, and support for athletes and volunteers. A plenary vote is scheduled to take place in September 2025.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – Exchange of views with Commission EVP Roxana Mînzatu – Committee on Culture and Education

    Source: European Parliament

    On 16 July 2025, the CULT Committee will hold an exchange of views with Roxana Mînzatu, Commission’s Executive Vice-President for Social Rights and Skills, Quality Jobs and Preparedness. The discussion will follow the Commission’s adoption of its first batch of proposals for the post-2027 EU budget.

    Members will stress the importance of securing strong support for Erasmus+, highlighting education as a foundation for EU competitiveness and cohesion. The session includes opening remarks from Executive Vice-President Mînzatu and a debate with committee members. The exchange will take place from 16:00 to 17:15 in SPINELLI 1G3.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – Situation of human rights in China ahead of the EU–China Summit (24-25 July 2025) – Subcommittee on Human Rights

    Source: European Parliament

    EU – China © Image used under licence from Adobe Stock

    Ahead of the upcoming EU-China Summit in Brussels, the DROI meeting on 16 July will feature an exchange of views on the human rights situation in China (9.00-10.00). Civil society representatives with extensive expertise on the country will join the panel to assess the current state of affairs and share their input on the road ahead concerning the human rights dimension of the EU-China relationship.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – ENVI Members Vote on Corporate Sustainability Reporting and Due Diligence Rules – Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety

    Source: European Parliament

    On 15 July 2025, ENVI Members will vote on their opinion regarding the Commission’s proposal to amend the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), and taxonomy provisions as part of the Omnibus I simplification package

    The Commission’s proposal, adopted on 26 February 2025 under the Omnibus I package, aims to streamline the Accounting, Audit, CSRD, and CSDDD Directives, along with taxonomy-related provisions. The lead responsibility lies with the Legal Affairs Committee (JURI), while the ENVI Committee provides its opinion. 473 amendments were tabled to the Commission proposal. Five compromise amendments were tabled covering among others: the narrowing of the CSRD scope to companies with over 1750 employees and €450M turnover; excluding small partners from value chain reporting; limiting climate transition plan requirements to large companies; and aligning taxonomy reporting strictly with CSRD scope by deleting optional taxonomy disclosures. Following the ENVI vote, the JURI vote is scheduled for 13 October, followed by a plenary vote later that month.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – ENVI Exchange of views with the Commission on climate & environmental disinformation – Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety

    Source: European Parliament

    On 15 July 2025, ENVI Members will hold an exchange of views with the Commission on disinformation targeting climate and environmental policies, with participation from the EUDS Special Committee

    Disinformation targeting the EU green transition is a threat to the development and implementation of climate and environmental policies and undermines public trust in democratic institutions and decision-making processes within the EU. It is often the result of foreign information manipulation and interference. In December 2024, 13% of online disinformation in Europe consisted of climate disinformation. A cohesive strategy must be developed, combining legislative interventions with education and soft measures. A better cooperation is needed to counter propaganda against climate and environmental policies, emphasising the need for adapted tools, stronger networks, informal coordination and closer cooperation with private stakeholders, particularly to address the role of social media algorithms in amplifying false narratives.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – ENVI exchange of views on 2040 climate target proposal – Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety

    Source: European Parliament

    On 14 July 2025, ENVI will hold an exchange of views on the Commission’s proposal to amend the European Climate Law by setting a 2040 target of 90% net GHG emissions reduction compared to 1990 levels

    On 2 July 2025, the Commission presented a proposal to amend the European Climate Law, introducing an EU 2040 climate target to reduce net GHG emissions by 90% compared to 1990 levels. This target builds on the EU 2030 climate target of at least 55% GHG emissions reduction and sets the pathway to reach climate neutrality by 2050. The proposal introduces the possibility to use flexibilities in how the target can be met, such as the potential use of high-quality international carbon credits from 2036, inclusion of domestic permanent removals in the EU ETS, and cross-sectoral compensation mechanisms. It also outlines enabling conditions to ensure industrial competitiveness, fairness, and technological neutrality. National specificities, simplicity, and cost-effectiveness are to be taken into account. Kurt Vandenberghe, Director General of DG CLIMA, will present the proposal in ENVI on 14 July.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Spain: EIB and ICF sign €100 million loan to back small businesses’ investments in sustainability and climate change adaptation and mitigation

    Source: European Investment Bank

    EIB

    • This is the first tranche of a total approved loan of €200 million.
    • The loan will expand financing available for small businesses wishing to invest in areas such as renewable energy, energy efficiency, electric vehicles and waste management.
    • The agreement contributes to the EIB’s strategic priorities of climate action and environmental sustainability, as well as support for SMEs and mid-caps.

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) and the Institut Català de Finances (ICF) have signed a €100 million loan to encourage small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to invest in sustainability and climate change adaptation and mitigation. This is the first tranche of a total approved EIB loan of €200 million.

    The agreement means that ICF will be able to expand the range of new financing available to enable SMEs – a key element of the economy – to make investments to speed up their green transition and help create a more sustainable and competitive economy. Projects open for financing will include those related to renewable energy and energy efficiency, investments in electric vehicles, the circular economy or efficient and sustainable waste management.

    EIB Director of Public Sector Lending in the European Union Gilles Badot said: “This loan will make it easier for small and medium companies committed to sustainability and energy efficiency to access new financing. We are very happy to join forces once again with ICF, applying cooperation between public sector financial institutions to promote the green transition of these companies of strategic importance to our economy and to its transition towards a more sustainable model.”

    ICF CEO Vanessa Servera added: “EIB support has enabled us to offer Catalan SMEs better financing conditions so they can implement projects and investments directly helping to meet climate goals and driving competitiveness. Small and medium companies are key to our economy and, for this reason, ICF wants to act as a strategic ally in their transition to a more sustainable and responsible business model.”

    The agreement highlights the commitment of the European Investment Bank Group (EIB Group) to climate action and environmental sustainability and support for small and medium-sized enterprises – strategic priorities set out in the Group’s Strategic Roadmap for 2024-2027.

    Background information

    EIB

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. Built around eight core priorities, we finance investments that contribute to EU policy objectives by bolstering climate action and the environment, digitalisation and technological innovation, security and defence, cohesion, agriculture and bioeconomy, social infrastructure, the capital markets union, and a stronger Europe in a more peaceful and prosperous world.

    The EIB Group, which also includes the European Investment Fund (EIF), signed nearly €89 billion in new financing for over 900 high-impact projects in 2024, boosting Europe’s competitiveness and security.

    All projects financed by the EIB Group are in line with the Paris Agreement, as pledged in its Climate Bank Roadmap. Almost 60% of the EIB Group’s annual financing supports projects that contribute directly to climate change mitigation and adaptation, and a healthier environment.

    In Spain, the EIB Group signed new financing worth €12.3 billion for over 100 high-impact projects in 2024, contributing to the country’s green and digital transition, economic growth, competitiveness and better services for its people.

    High-quality, up-to-date photos of the organisation’s headquarters for media use are available here.

    ICF

    ICF has been the public promotional bank in Catalonia for 40 years, and in that period it has financed 37 000 clients for a total of €16 billion. Its main mission is to promote the financing of companies and entities in order to contribute to the growth, innovation and sustainability of the Catalan economy. ICF acts as a complement to the private sector, offering a wide range of financing solutions focused on loans, guarantees and investment in venture capital. Since 2014 it has been a member of the European Association of Public Banks (EAPB), which brings together a large number of the public promotional banks and financial entities operating in Europe.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Doubts about the impartiality and transparency of the Commission’s actions in the Smart Kid Belt case – E-002742/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002742/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Michał Dworczyk (ECR)

    The judgment of the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) in the Smart Kid Belt case[1] and the Pfizergate scandal highlight a growing problem: the lack of real democratic control over the Commission. A common thread in both cases is a lack of transparency and acquiescence to corporate lobbying. Such institutional arrogance, manifested in the Commission’s disregard for court judgments, MEPs’ requests and transparency rules, undermines public trust in European institutions.

    As in the Pfizergate case, the CJEU ruled in the Smart Kid Belt case that the Commission had unjustifiably refused to disclose correspondence with representatives of children’s car seat manufacturers. These consultations effectively resulted in the elimination from the market of an innovative product made by a Polish company. The emails between representatives of children’s car seat manufacturers and a Commission official[2] that have come to light indicate biased and unethical actions supporting the interests of large companies to the detriment of a legally approved Polish product.

    In light of the above:

    • 1.In light of the aforementioned judgment, does the Commission intend to carry out an investigation into abuse of office, conflict of interest and breach of professional ethics?
    • 2.In light of the clearly biased actions of Commission officials in the Smart Kid Belt case, have any professional or disciplinary measures been taken against those involved, and if not, why not?
    • 3.Will the Commission carry out an internal assessment of its consultation procedures and access to documents following the judgments in the Smart Kid Belt and Pfizergate cases, and does it plan to review its policy on transparency and access to information?

    Submitted: 4.7.2025

    • [1] https://curia.europa.eu/juris/document/document.jsf?cid=724057&docid=299499&doclang=PL
    • [2] https://www.wirtualnemedia.pl/centrum-prasowe/artykul/53-minuty-tyle-zajelo-urzednikowi-komisji-europejskiej-na-przesadzenie-o-losach-polskiego-producenta
    Last updated: 11 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Ensuring availability of qualified nurses in a large-scale emergency – E-002745/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002745/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Maria Guzenina (S&D), Maria Ohisalo (Verts/ALE)

    In recent years, the EU and its Member States have been forced to direct attention to the gaps in the societal resilience of the Member States and in European-level coordination in the face of crises. The Commission recently presented a strategy on the EU Preparedness Union, which highlights the need to safeguard vital societal functions. Such functions include the healthcare sector, as also recognised in the Critical Entities Resilience Directive. However, in parallel, it is widely acknowledged that the EU is suffering a chronic shortage of qualified nurses.

    We are concerned about how the Member States can ensure the availability of qualified, specialised nurses in a large-scale emergency. We therefore wish to ask the Commission:

    • 1.What action has the Commission taken to ensure rapid deployment and cross-border mobility of qualified nurses in an emergency?
    • 2.In an emergency, there might be a high demand for specialised nurses with relevant qualifications and/or work experience. Is it possible to obtain the information of individuals with such qualifications from the Member States’ national nursing registers and, if necessary, to mobilise nurses with relevant expertise on a voluntary basis?

    Submitted: 4.7.2025

    Last updated: 11 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Polytechnic University develops cooperation with the Union of Restorers of St. Petersburg

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The ceremonial signing of a cooperation agreement between the St. Petersburg Polytechnic University and the Union of Restorers of St. Petersburg took place in the House of the Restorer (House of the Department of Appanages).

    The event was attended by the Director of the Civil Engineering Institute Marina Petrochenko, Deputy for Educational and Methodological Work Maxim Terekh, Senior Lecturers Galina Bardina and Evgeniya Zavodnova, Assistant Egor Melekhin. The Union of Restorers of St. Petersburg was represented by Deputy General Director Alexandra Komissarova.

    The meeting participants discussed interaction in education, scientific activities and practical implementation of projects.

    The main areas of cooperation were:

    development of an integrated professional retraining program “Reconstruction and Restoration of Buildings” with the assignment of an additional qualification “Architect-Restorator”, which will be aimed at specialists wishing to expand their competencies in the field of preserving historical and cultural heritage; topics for students’ group final qualifying works; planning a joint project for the digitalization of cultural heritage sites, which will be implemented in partnership with colleagues from Cuba.

    In addition, a tour of the historical mansion of I. V. Pashkov was organized for the Polytechnic delegation.

    St. Petersburg is traditionally considered the capital of architectural masterpieces that represent not only historical but also cultural value on a global scale. Preservation of these unique objects is a priority task that requires the involvement of highly qualified specialists. In this regard, we have initiated strategic cooperation with the Union of Restorers. Joint efforts are aimed at developing and implementing programs for additional professional education aimed at training personnel in the field of restoration and preservation of cultural heritage sites. This will ensure the continuity of traditions and advanced technologies in the field of protecting the architectural heritage of our city, – emphasized Marina Petrochenko.

    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 Africa: SA to host second G20 environment and climate meeting

    Source: Government of South Africa

    South Africa, through the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), will host the second technical meeting of the Group of 20 (G20) Environment and Climate Sustainability Working Group (ECSWG) next week.

    The meeting will be held from 14-18 18 July 2025, at Kruger National Park (KNP) in Skukuza, Mpumalanga.

    The ECSWG will facilitate high-level discussions on various critical topics, including biodiversity and conservation, climate change, land degradation, desertification and drought, chemicals and waste management, air quality, and ocean and coastal issues.

    According to the department, this meeting will build on the progress made at the first virtual ECSWG meeting held in March and will focus on deepening collaboration within the priorities of the G20 ECSWG.

    READ | G20 Environment and Climate Sustainability Working Group first meeting concluded

    The DFFE is coordinating the ECSWG, ensuring alignment with South Africa’s policy priorities and global sustainability commitments. 

    The key activities focused on promoting global cooperation for environmental sustainability. 

    This includes leading three ECSWG meetings, integrating sustainability discussions within G20 Working Groups, and collaborating with stakeholders and member states to achieve actionable results in climate finance, biodiversity, pollution management, and ocean governance.

    The meeting at the KNP forms part of a series of three ECSWG engagements hosted by South Africa during its G20 Presidency. 
    The meeting will bring together over 250 delegates, including representatives from G20 member states, invited countries, international organisations, government officials, and the media.

    The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, will launch G20 legacy projects at the second technical meeting of the ECSWG.

    The launch of the G20 legacy project, Rhino Renaissance Campaign, will demonstrate conservation efforts in fighting wildlife crime. 

    This will include a live demonstration of the dehorning of rhino process to be administered by the world-acclaimed South African National Parks Veterinary Services in the presence of the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment, and a selected group of delegates.   

    The leaders will also embark on the G20 tree planting activity, a symbolic tree planting ceremony of 20 trees, one for each G20 member, outside the Nombolo Mdluli Conference Centre. 

    “This initiative forms part of South Africa’s National Greening Programme, which aims to plant 10 million trees over five years. It is a bold step toward addressing the Presidential imperatives on greening,” the statement read. 

    The leaders will also announce the school essay winners. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Basic Education to set up advisory body 

    Source: Government of South Africa

    Basic Education Minister, Siviwe Gwarube is set to constitute an advisory body that will advise her on issues including the progression and promotion requirements as well as school resourcing.

    “In the coming weeks I will be constituting an advisory body, the National Education and Training Council, to advise me on matters including school resourcing, teacher workloads and progression and promotion requirements.

    “Whether the pass mark should be 30, 40 or 50% in which subjects must be subjected to a well-researched process of experts. We must be responsible with the curriculum of our children,” she said in Parliament.

    Tabling the Department of Basic Education’s (DBE) Budget Vote on Thursday, the Minister said the budget is a signal of continued commitment to targeted investments that close gaps and unlock every learner’s potential.

    This as the DBE received a total budget of over R35 billion – an increase of over 8% from last year.

    With Early Childhood Development (ECD) being part of the department’s five key priorities, the ECD Conditional Grant increases to over R1.7 billion; with over R230 million allocated to an ECD Nutrition Pilot and R162 million set aside for ECD infrastructure.
    “Our goal is clear: every child must enter Grade R ready to learn in all respects. Our strategy centres on foundational learning – ensuring all children can read and calculate by age ten.”

    Meanwhile, over R4.6 billion has been allocated to Curriculum Policy Support and Monitoring – an increase of over 14% enabling national oversight, teacher support and curriculum delivery.

    The department’s R1.2 billion Workbook Programme will continue to provide quality learning materials from Grades R to 9 — including Braille and adaptive formats.

    “While workbooks support teaching and learning, they are not substitutes for quality teaching. R57 million over the medium term will support learners who are not being taught in their mother-tongue through the rollout of mother-tongued based bilingual education.
    “Our message is simple: reading is non-negotiable, and the Foundation Phase is where the battle for equity and excellence must be won.”
    Additionally, the department is building an inclusive system that removes barriers to learning for learners with diverse education needs.
    It will continue to: 
    •    support full-service and special schools through the Inclusive Education Conditional Grant;
    •    and monitoring provincial spending on assistive devices, transport and teacher aides.

    Investing in teachers

    At the same time, district teams are being strengthened to offer diagnostic support with the department investing over R1.8 billion in teacher training, mentorship and leadership.

    “The Funza Lushaka bursary scheme will fund over 9,000 students focused on priority subjects and Foundation Phase education. Recruitment will prioritise candidates willing to teach in rural and high-need areas.

    “Teachers are the single most important in-school resource influencing learning outcomes. We must continue to support and professionalise them.”

    Infrastructure and nutrition

    On school infrastructure, R15.3 billion Education Infrastructure Grant (EIG) will be used by provinces to eliminate pit toilets, expand classrooms and repair schools.

    “We’ve made progress on school infrastructure and safety, completing 97% of sanitation projects under the SAFE initiative (as of today), and supporting provinces to eradicate the remaining unsafe sanitation facilities,” said Gwarube.

    She added that over nine million learners rely on the school nutrition programme.

    “R10 billion will feed over nine million learners daily while we’re improving menus, delivery and local sourcing. This budget reflects our constitutional duty and belief in education as the most powerful lever for transformation.

    “We are reviewing the provincial school nutrition models to improve efficiency, financial management, and the impact of this programme. Every day, 9.7 million learners depend on this programme for a meal, and we cannot afford to fail them.”

    BELA Act 

    The Minister said the DBE has actively supported the sector in implementing the BELA Act, which came into effect on 24 December 2024.

    The Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Act which amends sections of the South African Schools Act of 1996 (SASA) and the Employment of Educators Act, 1998 (EEA) to account for developments in the education landscape since the enactment of the original legislation.

    “This includes training of provincial officials, interim guidelines and an extensive suite of draft regulations. 
    “The first two regulations, focused on admissions and capacity, will be published in the coming weeks for public comment, with further regulations to follow,” she said. –SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: IAEA Ramps Up Commitment to Advance Development and Cancer Care Across Africa

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) –

    Three Years of Rays of Hope

    The IAEA’s Rays of Hope initiative aims to widen access to life-saving cancer care where it is needed most; by helping low- and middle-income countries establish or expand medical imaging, radiotherapy and nuclear medicine services. Since its launch in 2022, more than 90 countries have requested support under the initiative.  

    Malawi has already built it’s first-ever public radiotherapy centre (see below), while Chad, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Djibouti and Lesotho are also in the process of establishing radiotherapy services. Linear accelerators for radiotherapy have been delivered to Kenya, Malawi, Niger and Paraguay. More than 80 cancer care professionals have been trained around the world, and 12 Rays of Hope Anchor Centres have been set up. 

    The Director General’s trip began in Addis Ababa at the Rays of Hope Forum, a gathering of countries taking stock of achievements made and planning vital next steps. 

    During the forum, the IAEA and St Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital also entered a significant new partnership to address inequality in global childhood cancer care. 

    Read more about the Rays of Hope Forum here.

    While in Ethiopia the Director General met with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali to talk health and energy. 

    Mr Grossi joined Malawi’s President Lazarus Chakwera and Health Minister Khumbize Kandodo Chiponda at Kamuzu Central Hospital in Lilongwe to open the country’s first public radiotherapy centre. 

    “This is a major milestone under Rays of Hope, which supported the centre with life-saving equipment,” said the Director General.

    During his ensuing visit to Kenya, the Director General met with Health Cabinet Secretary Hon. Aden Duale and other key members of the government. They exchanged views on support received so far and the importance of facilitating further training for Kenyans working in cancer care.

    Mr Grossi visited Monrovia, Liberia, marking the first time an IAEA Director General has ever been to the West African country.  

    “Today, with Rays of Hope support, we celebrated the groundbreaking of the country’s only radiotherapy facility. We are helping establish it, starting with a mammography unit and training to bring life-saving care to those who need it most. More support will soon be on the way,” said the Director General.  

    Mr Grossi met with President Joseph Nyumah Boakai, Acting Foreign Minister Cllr. Deweh Grey, Health Minister Louise Kpoto, and several other ministers at the Environmental Protection Agency.  

    Beyond cancer care, the IAEA is also strengthening food security through Atoms4Food, reinforcing radiation safety, supporting sustainable water management, as well as Liberia’s national energy strategy.  

    As a marine country, Liberia faces ocean acidification and plastic pollution. “Nuclear science, including support through our NUTEC Plastics, can help protect its coasts and communities,” said the Director General. “There is much more we can do together. The IAEA is here, ready to continue supporting Liberia’s development in all its aspects.” 

    During the week, the Director General also travelled to Rwanda to attend the Nuclear Energy Innovation Summit for Africa (#NEISA2025) in Kigali. 

    At the summit, the Director General also met with both Rwanda and Niger’s Prime Ministers to talk about support for smart agriculture and water management via Atoms4Food.  

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Lord Mayor unveils plaque outside Pineapple Dance Studios | Westminster City Council

    Source: City of Westminster

    The great and the good from the world of dance joined the Lord Mayor of Westminster to unveil a plaque honouring the work of its founder, Debbie Moore. 

    Dame Arlene Phillips, Louis Spence, Bonnie Langford were some of the famous faces to share the moment with dance fans and well-wishers for the ceremony. A small showcase of dancers from the studios entertained the crowds after the plaque was unveiled by Debbie and lifelong friend Dame Arlene Phillips. 

    In June 1979, Pineapple opened its doors out of a derelict pineapple warehouse following Covent Garden fruit market’s departure being reborn as ‘Pineapple Dance Studios’. Since then, it has gone onto teach countless performers for some of the biggest show on stage and screen. 

    The plaque, organised by The Seven Dials Trust, now stands proudly outside the entrance to the studio on Langley Street. The People’s Plaques celebrate individuals and institutions who have contributed to London and beyond.

    The Lord Mayor of Westminster, Cllr Paul Dimoldenberg said:

    It was a privilege to join dancing royalty at Pineapple Dance Studios to unveil a plaque celebrating the remarkable Debbie Moore. Her dedication has supported generations of performers, helping them take their first steps — and leaps — into the world of dance and performance.”

    “Pineapple Studios has well and truly chassé-ed its way into dancing folklore, nurturing talent that has graced both stage and screen. Debbie’s vision continues to inspire, and today’s celebration was a testament to the vibrant creative community she helped build.”

    David Bieda, Seven Dials Trust chairman said:

    We are delight to have Dame Arlene Phillips OBE, Wayne Sleep and The Lord Mayor of Westminster participate in the ceremony. The Seven Dials Trust People’s Plaques commemorate those who have made a contribution to London, and in this case internationally.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New arrivals set to moo-ve in to improve park’s grassland

    Source: City of Sunderland

    Cows are being introduced at Elemore Country Park as part of plans to improve its grassland.

    The six-month conservation grazing trial, which is set to begin next month, will see three Hereford cows being introduced into a small fenced off area of the park to help improve its grassland.

    This in turn will help increase the park’s biodiversity by encouraging a wider variety of plants and animals to live there.

    Councillor Lindsey Leonard, Cabinet Member for Environment, Transport and Net Zero at Sunderland City Council, said: “Elemore Country Park has become a haven for wildlife since we started work to transform it from a former golf course and colliery in 2022.

    “We’re delighted to be working with Durham Wildlife Trust on this conservation grazing project which is all about further increasing the biodiversity of the grassland in the park.

    “Grazing produces a patchwork of different conditions, helping attract a wide range of plants, insects, reptiles, birds and small mammals, which is what we’re aiming for at Elemore Country Park.

    “The grazing is something we began talking about a couple of years ago as part of our work to develop a habitat management plan for the site.

    “Durham Wildlife Trust has been putting in the infrastructure for grazing over the last year as part of its Links with Nature project, which has been made possible thanks to National Lottery Players via the National Lottery Heritage Fund, as well as funding from the City Council’s Coalfield Area Committee. And we’re very much looking forward to the start of the six-month trial next month.”

    Anne Gladwin, Links with Nature Project Manager at Durham Wildlife Trust, said: “We are delighted to be able to introduce grazing cattle to Elemore Park to help improve the grasslands and develop wildflower meadows, which will support species including butterflies, birds and small mammals.

    “The Links with Nature project has been working to restore wildlife at Elemore Park over the last 12 months, with support from volunteers from the local area. There are regular opportunities for people to get involved in our work, either by volunteering or attending one of our events at Elemore Park. You can read details about our work and find out what is coming up on our Facebook page, search for Links with Nature.”

    To find out more about Elemore Country Park, visit: Elemore Park – MySunderland 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: ‘Serious public safety concerns remain and further questions need to be answered’ – Sheehan

    Source: Sinn Féin

    Sinn Féin MLA Pat Sheehan has said serious public safety concerns remain and further questions need to be answered after more asbestos was reportedly found at a bonfire site in the Village area of south Belfast.
    “The question remains, how can a bonfire that poses a risk to the supply of electricity to two major hospitals and is built on a site covered in asbestos be allowed to go ahead?
    “Public health concerns must be paramount. What was already a high risk situation has been amplified by the recent discovery of even more toxic asbestos on site.
    “There is a lack of decisive action and leadership around this issue because political unionism is failing.
    “This would not be allowed to happen anywhere else; I certainly would not be letting my children anywhere near this hazard.
    “There are questions for the PSNI on how they have come to a decision not to intervene. All steps should be taken to protect public health.
    “A factual assessment is urgently needed to determine the extent of asbestos on this site and the dangers it presents.
    “Lessons need to be learned. How have we ended up in a position where there is a clear danger to public safety due a bonfire that has no legal authority in the first place?”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Polytech presented innovative AI solutions for industry

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    A joint meeting of the presidiums of the Public Organization and the Regional Association of Employers “Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs of St. Petersburg” (SPP SPb) was held at the Polytechnic University. The main issue on the agenda was the introduction of artificial intelligence technologies in St. Petersburg industry.

    The meeting was chaired by the President of the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs of St. Petersburg Anatoly Turchak and the First Vice President, General Director of the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs of St. Petersburg Mikhail Lobin.

    The relevance of the topic is due to the fact that the use of artificial intelligence in industry will help solve many problems, such as increasing labor productivity, reducing costs, optimizing production processes, forecasting and identifying technological patterns. In recent years, the trend towards digitalization of enterprises has been growing largely due to government support through national projects and federal programs. According to estimates by the Ministry of Economic Development of Russia, by 2030, AI will be implemented in 95% of industries.

    Among the problems and barriers hindering the rapid implementation of AI in industry, Anatoly Turchak named the high cost of development, the shortage of qualified specialists and outdated software at enterprises. The meeting discussed these and other issues in the field of expanding the use of AI in industry.

    Vice-Rector for Research Yuri Fomin, who oversees the key scientific and technical direction (KNTD) for the development of AI technologies within the framework of the Priority-2030 program at the Polytechnic University, spoke about the platform solutions that SPbPU scientists offer to industrialists.

    Yuri Vladimirovich presented the university’s innovative projects aimed at developing digital technologies and artificial intelligence (AI). In 2025, SPbPU plans to attract 320 million rubles for scientific and technological developments and services for industrial enterprises.

    Among the key projects:

    Digital platform for processing and analyzing multimodal data with predictive and prescriptive analytics functions; Flexible lifecycle management system for power plant equipment based on predictive analytics; Digital platform for analyzing transport systems using hybrid AI; Multi-agent decision support systems in industry and construction; Automation of seismic data processing using artificial neural networks; AI technologies for retrosynthetic analysis of Big Data in biochemistry (structure-activity); “Smart Nose” – an odor recognition system based on a MEMS chip; BioMedAI – fundamental AI models in neurobiology.

    These developments represent cutting-edge solutions for digital transformation, demonstrating the leadership of our scientists in the field of AI technologies and their readiness to cooperate with industrial enterprises, the vice-rector emphasized.

    Valentin Makarov, President of the Non-Commercial Partnership of Software Developers “RUSSOFT”, spoke about neural network technologies for business that are available in the organization’s arsenal.

    The meeting participants discussed the issues outlined by the speakers and, for their part, proposed measures to improve the efficiency of using AI at St. Petersburg industrial enterprises. The debate on the reports was attended by Georgy Antsev, General Director and General Designer of the Radar MMS Research and Production Enterprise, Mikhail Silnikov, General Director of the Research and Production Association of Special Materials, Alexander Lopota, Director and Chief Designer of the Central Research and Experimental Design Institute of Robotics and Technical Cybernetics, and others.

    The meeting was held with the participation of the Deputy Chairman of the Committee for Industrial Policy, Innovation and Trade of St. Petersburg, Alexey Yakovlev, who in his closing remarks emphasized the importance of re-equipping production to increase the competitiveness of St. Petersburg enterprises and spoke about measures to support industrial modernization by the state.

    In turn, representatives of industrial enterprises noted the productivity of such meetings, which unite the efforts of science and business to develop Russia’s innovative economy and achieve technological leadership for the country.

    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.

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: China’s Foreign Ministry: Tariffs should not be used to interfere in other countries’ internal affairs

    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

    BEIJING, July 11 (Xinhua) — Tariffs should not be used as a tool to coerce or intimidate other countries, or to interfere in the internal affairs of other countries, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said Friday.

    The diplomat thus commented at the latest departmental press conference, at the request of journalists, on the information that the United States recently announced the introduction of duties of up to 50 percent on goods from Brazil from August 1, condemning Brazil for “injustice” in trade with the United States and demanding that Brazil immediately stop political “persecution” within the country.

    “Sovereign equality and non-interference in internal affairs are important principles of the UN Charter and fundamental norms governing international relations,” the Chinese Foreign Ministry representative emphasized. -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.

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: Xinhua think tank report outlines China’s approach to poverty alleviation management

    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

    BEIJING, July 11 (Xinhua) — The Xinhua Institute, a high-level national think tank affiliated with the Xinhua News Agency, on Friday released a report on China’s experience in poverty reduction.

    The document, titled “Striving for a Better Life for the People: China’s Practical and Theoretical Innovations in Consolidating and Expanding Achievements in Intensive Poverty Alleviation,” was simultaneously released in Chinese and English for worldwide distribution.

    It describes the fundamental principles of the theory of poverty alleviation with Chinese characteristics, which becomes a key intellectual asset for the progress of human civilization.

    The report systematizes fundamental guiding principles in five aspects: firm leadership by the Communist Party of China as the basic guarantee; putting the people’s interests first as the supreme value; pooling common efforts as the distinguishing feature; self-reliance and self-strengthening as the fundamental principle; and step-by-step advancement as the key strategy.

    The theoretical basis of poverty alleviation management in China has been continuously enriched, and the methodological approaches have been consistently refined through years of practical exploration and empirical verification. This includes the implementation of targeted poverty alleviation strategies and the effective combination of work to consolidate the achievements of poverty alleviation with the implementation of the rural revitalization program.

    “This theoretical system is not only deeply rooted in China’s national reality, but also absorbs global experience and wisdom in poverty reduction, elevating local experience to the level of global value,” the report emphasizes.

    As noted in the document, this system acknowledges the multiplicity of development paths and offers the global community, especially developing countries, replicable, scalable and transformable solutions in the field of governance. -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.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Exclusive: The Chinese model is a model of peace, development and respect for civilizational diversity – Chairman of the People’s Party of Kazakhstan E. Yertysbayev

    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

    BEIJING, July 11 (Xinhua) — The Chinese model is a model of peace, development and respect for civilizational diversity, Chairman of the People’s Party of Kazakhstan Yermukhamet Yertysbayev told Xinhua on Friday on the sidelines of the ministerial meeting of the Global Dialogue of Civilizations.

    “Chinese policy is diametrically different from the policy of Western countries. The West sells or imposes on other countries not cooperation, but subordination and protection of its own interests at their expense. China advocates equal partnership, common development and prosperity,” said E. Yertysbayev, noting that this is the wisdom of a great civilization and great culture that has been around for thousands of years.

    E. Yertysbayev stated that, given the events that have taken place since the end of the 20th century, there is something to compare with. “China is building roads, ports, universities and cultural centers… China is bringing new technologies and education to other countries, not provocations and color revolutions. Instead of sanctions – investments. Instead of ultimatums – partnership. Instead of ideological dictate – acceptance of the diversity of cultures of different ethnic groups,” he explained.

    The politician cited the Belt and Road Initiative as an example, which, according to him, is a gigantic mega-project of the 21st century. “I would like to note that the main thing here is not even the economic component, but the new, amazing and stunning ethical side of the project’s implementation,” he emphasized.

    As noted by E. Yertysbayev, the international transport corridor that China is creating is a full-fledged economic foundation for an absolutely new model of international cooperation and development. “Each partner country is a link in the general system, part of a single practical mechanism “Belt and Road”, working for the benefit of all participating states,” he said.

    The agency’s interlocutor is convinced that, in addition to the economy, the Belt and Road initiative makes a huge contribution to the dialogue and rapprochement of civilizations from Beijing to the Middle East, from the Yellow Sea in China to the Mediterranean Sea in Europe. “This is not just an economic corridor, but a civilizational bridge connecting the East and West, North and South. This is a dialogue of cultures, and not the imposition of foreign conditions,” Yertysbayev emphasized.

    “Our generation must pass a maturity test. Will we be able to build a world where every nation is respected? Will we be able to understand and accept others’ cultures while preserving our own? Will we be able to create a world of equal civilizations together? The People’s Republic of China is showing us a worthy example of this,” he concluded.

    The Ministerial Meeting of the Global Dialogue of Civilizations on “Preserving the Diversity of Human Civilizations for World Peace and Development” is being held in Beijing on July 10-11. The event is attended by over 600 guests from about 140 countries and territories. –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.

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: First-year student of the RUDN Medical Institute is a prize winner of the All-Russian competition “Roads to Rome”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Peoples’Friendship University of Russia –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    What do the RUDN University General Medicine program and the Saratov State University Department of Russian and Foreign Literature have in common? Medical terms in Latin, encrypted in puzzles and a crossword by our student Violetta Jacqueline Flont.

    The creative project of a first-year student of the medical institute took third place in the IV All-Russian competition of student scientific, educational and creative works “Roads to Rome”. The competition, which was held by the Saratov university, was dedicated to the culture and history of antiquity and was timed to coincide with the birthday of the capital of Italy.

    “Of the four nominations, I chose “Aenigmata (riddles)” because I love creative tasks that require unconventional thinking and a combination of logic and creativity. I selected medical terms for the rebuses and crossword puzzles based on several criteria: so that they were understandable to a wide audience, but at the same time interesting enough and aroused curiosity. I also took into account the possibility of visualizing the word in the rebus – I looked for words that can be broken down into parts or presented through images. And I tried to include terms related to the theme of the competition, for example, travel or the history of medicine,” – Violetta Jacqueline Flönt (General Medicine, 1st year).

    In total, she used 40 concepts in her work to describe the human body, among which were the words: cerebellum (cerebellum), ventriculus (stomach) and scapula (shoulder blade).

    Deep into history

    In preparation for the competition, the student found references to medicinal herbs and medical instruments from Ancient Rome in old books in the library. She also read materials on specialized forums and articles on medical terminology in Latin. Some words, such as “catheter,” have roots in antiquity, which added depth to her puzzles. Violetta noted that the most difficult to visualize were long and complex medical terms, such as “hypothermia” or “antiseptic.” For “hypothermia,” the contestant had to convey the idea of “low temperature” through simple images, which required breaking the word into parts (“hypo” and “thermia”) and searching for associations, such as ice or a thermometer.

    “The knowledge I gained helped me better understand medical terminology and its etymology, which will be useful if I choose a profession related to medicine or science. Working on puzzles and crosswords developed the skills of structuring information and a creative approach to problem solving, which will be useful in any analytical or creative activity. In addition, I learned how to work with sources, check their reliability and adapt complex concepts for a wide audience – these are universal skills that will help in communication and project work in the future,” – Violetta Jacklin Fleunt (General Medicine, 1st year).

    Examples of rebuses

    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.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong Customs seizes suspected counterfeit mobile phones worth about $1.2 million (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    Hong Kong Customs on June 13 seized about 800 suspected counterfeit mobile phones with an estimated market value of about $1.2 million at the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge (HZMB) Hong Kong Port.

    Through risk assessment, Customs on that day intercepted an incoming lorry at the HZMB Hong Kong Port. After inspection, Customs officers found the batch of suspected counterfeit mobile phones inside the cargo compartment of the lorry. A 62-year-old male driver was subsequently arrested.

    An initial investigation revealed that the batch of suspected counterfeit mobile phones would have been transhipped to overseas regions.

    The investigation is ongoing, and the arrested man has been released on bail pending further investigation.

    Customs will continue to take stringent enforcement action against counterfeit goods and smuggling activities through risk assessment and intelligence analysis.

    Under the Trade Descriptions Ordinance, any person who imports or exports any goods to which a forged trademark is applied commits an offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $500,000 and imprisonment for five years.

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

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCSD invites partner for Victoria Park Bazaar

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

         The Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) today (July 11) invited interested parties to submit proposals to become a partner to organise the cultural and creative arts bazaar at Victoria Park (Victoria Park Bazaar).

         The Working Group on Developing Tourist Hotspots, led by the Deputy Chief Secretary for Administration, announced nine hotspot projects on May 20, 2025, including setting up a Victoria Park Bazaar. The bazaar will operate from mid-December 2025 to November 2026, featuring about 30 stalls and a variety of thematic activities to enhance community vibrancy and enrich visitor experience, as well as developing as a vibrant, tasteful, and appealing tourism hotspot. 

         The LCSD is inviting interested registered companies, organisations, and non-governmental organisations providing youth services or possessing experience in operating bazaars to attend a briefing session to be held at 11am on July 23, 2025 (Wednesday), at the Press Room of Victoria Park Swimming Pool (details in annex (Chinese version only)), at which the detailed arrangements for the Victoria Park Bazaar and the requirements on proposals will be explained.

         For further information, please contact Mr Lo (2890 4298) or Mr Chan (2890 4204) of the Victoria Park Management Office.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Gazettal of banking amendment rules to implement Basel cryptoassets standard

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

         The Banking (Capital) (Amendment) Rules 2025, the Banking (Disclosure) (Amendment) Rules 2025 and the Banking (Exposure Limits) (Amendment) Rules 2025 (collectively referred to as “the amendment rules”) were gazetted today (July 11) to implement the new prudential standard promulgated by the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision (BCBS) in Hong Kong.

         The amendment rules seek to implement the capital standards and the associated requirements on disclosure and exposure limits promulgated by the BCBS in relation to the prudential treatment of cryptoasset exposures, which are scheduled to take effect from January 1, 2026, in accordance with the BCBS timeline.
     
         The opportunity is also taken to include certain amendments in the Banking (Capital) Rules (Cap. 155L) and Banking (Exposure Limits) Rules (Cap. 155S)  for better aligning the capital framework with international practices, as well as ensuring the effective operation of the exposure limits framework as informed by implementation experiences, industry feedback and regulatory developments.
     
         A Government spokesperson said, “The amendment rules aim at providing a robust and prudent regulatory framework in line with international standards for banks’ exposures to cryptoassets that promotes responsible innovation while preserving financial stability.”
     
         A Hong Kong Monetary Authority spokesperson added, “In formulating the amendment rules, we have conducted several rounds of consultations with the industry and taken local circumstances into account.”
     
         The amendment rules will be tabled at the Legislative Council on July 16, 2025. They will take effect on January 1, 2026.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Tender period further extended for Integrated Waste Management Facilities Phase 2

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    The Environmental Protection Department (EPD) today (July 11) announced that the tender period for the design, build and operate contract for the Integrated Waste Management Facilities Phase 2 (I∙PARK2) (Contract No. EP/SP/312/24) has been further extended to noon on October 10, 2025.

    The EPD invited tenders for the contract on December 20, 2024. The tender period was originally scheduled to expire at noon on June 27, 2025. It was announced on June 6, 2025, to extend the tender period to noon on July 18, 2025.

    The further extension of the tender period was gazetted today. Details of the tender notice are available on the EPD’s website (www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/business_job/business_opp/tender.html).

    The EPD has commissioned Binnies Hong Kong Limited as the project’s engineering consultant. For enquiries, please contact the person-in-charge, Mr Colin Chan (Telephone: 2601 1000; Fax: 2601 3988; E-mail: BinniesHK@binnies.com).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Government announces appointment to Fight Crime Committee

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    The Government announced today (July 11) the appointment of Mr Ip Yik-nam as a member of the Fight Crime Committee. His term of appointment is from July 15, 2025, to July 14, 2027.

    The Chief Secretary for Administration and Chairman of the Committee, Mr Chan Kwok-ki, welcomed Mr Ip and looked forward to working closely with him.

    The Fight Crime Committee is responsible for drawing up plans to reduce crime, co-ordinating efforts in fighting crime and monitoring the results, and determining ways in which the public can be encouraged to contribute to the fight against crime.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Government announces appointment to Fight Crime Committee

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    The Government announced today (July 11) the appointment of Mr Ip Yik-nam as a member of the Fight Crime Committee. His term of appointment is from July 15, 2025, to July 14, 2027.

    The Chief Secretary for Administration and Chairman of the Committee, Mr Chan Kwok-ki, welcomed Mr Ip and looked forward to working closely with him.

    The Fight Crime Committee is responsible for drawing up plans to reduce crime, co-ordinating efforts in fighting crime and monitoring the results, and determining ways in which the public can be encouraged to contribute to the fight against crime.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Three men charged by Police National Security Department

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    The National Security Department of the Hong Kong Police Force arrested four men, aged between 15 and 47, on July 9 and laid charges against three of them jointly with one count of “Conspiracy to Secession” today (July 11).

    The case will be mentioned at the West Kowloon Magistrates’ Courts this afternoon.

    Another arrested man has been released on bail pending further enquiries and is required to report back to Police in early August.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Three men charged by Police National Security Department

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    The National Security Department of the Hong Kong Police Force arrested four men, aged between 15 and 47, on July 9 and laid charges against three of them jointly with one count of “Conspiracy to Secession” today (July 11).

    The case will be mentioned at the West Kowloon Magistrates’ Courts this afternoon.

    Another arrested man has been released on bail pending further enquiries and is required to report back to Police in early August.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Registration of Same-sex Partnerships Bill gazetted

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    The Government gazetted today (July 11) the Registration of Same-sex Partnerships Bill (the Bill) to fulfil the positive obligation of the Government under Article 14 of the Hong Kong Bill of Rights (BOR14) as declared by the Court of Final Appeal in the case of Sham Tsz Kit v Secretary for Justice (FACV 14/2022), whereby an alternative framework will be established through legislation for legal recognition of same-sex partnerships, while providing for appropriate rights and obligations attendant on such recognition.

    The Bill aims to establish a registration system for same-sex partnerships, so that same-sex partners can apply for registration of their same-sex partnerships. The content of the Bill covers the setting up of a same-sex partnership registry, the conditions for registration of same-sex partnerships, the mode of application for registration and revocation of registration, and the offences and penalty related to the registration mechanism. The Bill also amends related provisions in certain enactments to provide for rights and obligations attendant on the recognition of same-sex partnerships.

    A spokesman for the Government said, “The Government respects the court’s judgment, and will proactively fulfil the related obligation under BOR14 by establishing the relevant alternative framework through legislation. The current proposal has fully taken into account the actual situations and overall interests of Hong Kong, and strived to achieve an appropriate balance. The Government will continue to actively maintain close communication with the Legislative Council (LegCo) to implement the Bill. We reiterate that establishing the alternative framework to introduce a registration system for same-sex partnerships will not compromise the Government’s established position on upholding the monogamous and heterosexual marriage system.”

    The Bill will be introduced into the LegCo for first reading on July 16.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –