Category: DJF

ICC issues arrest warrants for Taliban leaders over persecution of women

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

The International Criminal Court (ICC) on Tuesday issued arrest warrants for two Taliban leaders in Afghanistan including supreme spiritual leader Haibatullah Akhundzada, accusing them of the persecution of women and girls.

The ICC said there were reasonable grounds to believe that Akhundzada and Abdul Hakim Haqqani, chief justice of the Taliban, had committed the crime against humanity of persecution on gender grounds against girls, women and other persons non-conforming with the Taliban’s policy on gender, gender identity or expression.

Since the Islamist Taliban returned to power in 2021 it has clamped down on women’s rights, including limits to schooling, work and general independence in daily life.

The Taliban condemned the warrants as an example of hostility towards Islam.

“We neither recognise anything by the name of an international court nor do we consider ourselves bound by it,” the Taliban government’s spokesman, Zabihullah Mujahid, added in a statement.

It is the first time judges of the ICC have issued a warrant on charges of gender persecution.

“While the Taliban have imposed certain rules and prohibitions on the population as a whole, they have specifically targeted girls and women by reason of their gender, depriving them of fundamental rights and freedoms,” the court said.

The full warrants and details on the specific incidents they are based on remain under seal to protect witnesses and victims, the court said.

NGOs hailed the warrants and called on the international community to back the ICC’s work.

“The international community should fully back the ICC in its critical work in Afghanistan and globally, including through concerted efforts to enforce the court’s warrants,” Human Rights Watch International Justice director Liz Evenson, said in a statement.

The ICC has been under increased criticism from non-member states such as the United States, Israel and Russia.

Last year the court issued an arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity during the Gaza conflict. The ICC also issued an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin in 2023 on suspicion of deporting children from Ukraine.

Neither Russia nor Israel is a member of the court and both deny the accusations and reject ICC jurisdiction.

Last month the United States imposed sanctions on four ICC judges including two who were involved in a ruling that allowed prosecutors to open a formal investigation into war crimes and crimes against humanity in Afghanistan, including alleged crimes committed by American troops.

The ICC said it was an attempt to undermine the independence of an international judicial institution that provides hope and justice to millions of victims.

(Reuters)

July 9, 2025
National Fish Farmers Day 2025 to be celebrated in Bhubaneswar with launch of key fisheries initiatives

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

The Department of Fisheries, under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying (MoFAH&D), will celebrate National Fish Farmers Day 2025 on 10 July at the ICAR-Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture (CIFA) in Bhubaneswar.

The occasion will be marked by the presence of Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh, who also heads the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, along with Minister of State Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel and Minister of State George Kurian. Joining them will be Odisha’s Minister for Fisheries, Shri Gokulananda Mallick, to honour and support the contributions of fish farmers to the nation’s aquaculture and rural economy.

National Fish Farmers Day is observed each year to honour the significant contributions of fish farmers, who play a crucial role in ensuring India’s food security, generating rural employment, and supporting the growth of a sustainable aquaculture sector. The day also pays tribute to the pioneering efforts of Professor Dr. Hiralal Chaudhury and Dr. K. H. Alikunhi, who, on this day in 1957, successfully demonstrated induced breeding in Indian Major Carps through the hypophysation technique—an innovation that revolutionized inland aquaculture in India.

The celebration serves as a vital platform to recognize the contributions of fish farmers, entrepreneurs, and fishermen to the country’s fisheries sector. It encourages dialogue on sustainable fisheries management and the adoption of modern aquaculture techniques. Fish farmers have played a transformative role in advancing fish productivity, conserving aquatic resources, and meeting the growing demand for fish-based protein across the nation.

The fisheries sector in India has seen remarkable progress in recent years. Since 2015, the Government of India has invested over ₹38,500 crore in the sector. As a result, national fish production has witnessed an impressive 104% increase, rising from 95.79 lakh tonnes in FY 2013-14 to 195 lakh tonnes in FY 2024-25. Inland fisheries and aquaculture alone have experienced 140% growth, underscoring the potential of India’s water resources and the impact of focused policy initiatives.

India’s seafood exports have also seen tremendous success, crossing ₹60,500 crore mark and reaffirming the country’s global leadership in shrimp exports. Shrimp production has surged by 270% over the past decade, creating extensive employment opportunities and empowering fishing communities across the country.

As part of the National Fish Farmers Day celebrations, the Hon’ble Union Minister will launch several key initiatives aimed at furthering the sector’s development. These include the announcement of new Fisheries Clusters, release of the ICAR training calendar, and the unveiling of guidelines on seed certification and hatchery operations to ensure quality control, standardization, and capacity building. Fisheries beneficiaries, including traditional fishers, cooperatives and Fish Farmers Producer Organizations (FFPOs), Kisan Credit Card holders, and emerging fisheries start-ups, will be felicitated during the event.

In addition, virtual foundation stones will be laid and several PMMSY-supported fisheries projects will be inaugurated, reflecting the government’s commitment to infrastructure development, entrepreneurship, and inclusive growth in the sector. The Union Minister is also scheduled to deliver a keynote address, outlining sectoral progress and discussing new opportunities, best practices, and innovations in Indian fisheries.

July 9, 2025
National Fish Farmers Day 2025 to be celebrated in Bhubaneswar with launch of key fisheries initiatives

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

The Department of Fisheries, under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying (MoFAH&D), will celebrate National Fish Farmers Day 2025 on 10 July at the ICAR-Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture (CIFA) in Bhubaneswar.

The occasion will be marked by the presence of Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh, who also heads the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, along with Minister of State Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel and Minister of State George Kurian. Joining them will be Odisha’s Minister for Fisheries, Shri Gokulananda Mallick, to honour and support the contributions of fish farmers to the nation’s aquaculture and rural economy.

National Fish Farmers Day is observed each year to honour the significant contributions of fish farmers, who play a crucial role in ensuring India’s food security, generating rural employment, and supporting the growth of a sustainable aquaculture sector. The day also pays tribute to the pioneering efforts of Professor Dr. Hiralal Chaudhury and Dr. K. H. Alikunhi, who, on this day in 1957, successfully demonstrated induced breeding in Indian Major Carps through the hypophysation technique—an innovation that revolutionized inland aquaculture in India.

The celebration serves as a vital platform to recognize the contributions of fish farmers, entrepreneurs, and fishermen to the country’s fisheries sector. It encourages dialogue on sustainable fisheries management and the adoption of modern aquaculture techniques. Fish farmers have played a transformative role in advancing fish productivity, conserving aquatic resources, and meeting the growing demand for fish-based protein across the nation.

The fisheries sector in India has seen remarkable progress in recent years. Since 2015, the Government of India has invested over ₹38,500 crore in the sector. As a result, national fish production has witnessed an impressive 104% increase, rising from 95.79 lakh tonnes in FY 2013-14 to 195 lakh tonnes in FY 2024-25. Inland fisheries and aquaculture alone have experienced 140% growth, underscoring the potential of India’s water resources and the impact of focused policy initiatives.

India’s seafood exports have also seen tremendous success, crossing ₹60,500 crore mark and reaffirming the country’s global leadership in shrimp exports. Shrimp production has surged by 270% over the past decade, creating extensive employment opportunities and empowering fishing communities across the country.

As part of the National Fish Farmers Day celebrations, the Hon’ble Union Minister will launch several key initiatives aimed at furthering the sector’s development. These include the announcement of new Fisheries Clusters, release of the ICAR training calendar, and the unveiling of guidelines on seed certification and hatchery operations to ensure quality control, standardization, and capacity building. Fisheries beneficiaries, including traditional fishers, cooperatives and Fish Farmers Producer Organizations (FFPOs), Kisan Credit Card holders, and emerging fisheries start-ups, will be felicitated during the event.

In addition, virtual foundation stones will be laid and several PMMSY-supported fisheries projects will be inaugurated, reflecting the government’s commitment to infrastructure development, entrepreneurship, and inclusive growth in the sector. The Union Minister is also scheduled to deliver a keynote address, outlining sectoral progress and discussing new opportunities, best practices, and innovations in Indian fisheries.

July 9, 2025
National Fish Farmers Day 2025 to be celebrated in Bhubaneswar with launch of key fisheries initiatives

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

The Department of Fisheries, under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying (MoFAH&D), will celebrate National Fish Farmers Day 2025 on 10 July at the ICAR-Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture (CIFA) in Bhubaneswar.

The occasion will be marked by the presence of Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh, who also heads the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, along with Minister of State Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel and Minister of State George Kurian. Joining them will be Odisha’s Minister for Fisheries, Shri Gokulananda Mallick, to honour and support the contributions of fish farmers to the nation’s aquaculture and rural economy.

National Fish Farmers Day is observed each year to honour the significant contributions of fish farmers, who play a crucial role in ensuring India’s food security, generating rural employment, and supporting the growth of a sustainable aquaculture sector. The day also pays tribute to the pioneering efforts of Professor Dr. Hiralal Chaudhury and Dr. K. H. Alikunhi, who, on this day in 1957, successfully demonstrated induced breeding in Indian Major Carps through the hypophysation technique—an innovation that revolutionized inland aquaculture in India.

The celebration serves as a vital platform to recognize the contributions of fish farmers, entrepreneurs, and fishermen to the country’s fisheries sector. It encourages dialogue on sustainable fisheries management and the adoption of modern aquaculture techniques. Fish farmers have played a transformative role in advancing fish productivity, conserving aquatic resources, and meeting the growing demand for fish-based protein across the nation.

The fisheries sector in India has seen remarkable progress in recent years. Since 2015, the Government of India has invested over ₹38,500 crore in the sector. As a result, national fish production has witnessed an impressive 104% increase, rising from 95.79 lakh tonnes in FY 2013-14 to 195 lakh tonnes in FY 2024-25. Inland fisheries and aquaculture alone have experienced 140% growth, underscoring the potential of India’s water resources and the impact of focused policy initiatives.

India’s seafood exports have also seen tremendous success, crossing ₹60,500 crore mark and reaffirming the country’s global leadership in shrimp exports. Shrimp production has surged by 270% over the past decade, creating extensive employment opportunities and empowering fishing communities across the country.

As part of the National Fish Farmers Day celebrations, the Hon’ble Union Minister will launch several key initiatives aimed at furthering the sector’s development. These include the announcement of new Fisheries Clusters, release of the ICAR training calendar, and the unveiling of guidelines on seed certification and hatchery operations to ensure quality control, standardization, and capacity building. Fisheries beneficiaries, including traditional fishers, cooperatives and Fish Farmers Producer Organizations (FFPOs), Kisan Credit Card holders, and emerging fisheries start-ups, will be felicitated during the event.

In addition, virtual foundation stones will be laid and several PMMSY-supported fisheries projects will be inaugurated, reflecting the government’s commitment to infrastructure development, entrepreneurship, and inclusive growth in the sector. The Union Minister is also scheduled to deliver a keynote address, outlining sectoral progress and discussing new opportunities, best practices, and innovations in Indian fisheries.

July 9, 2025
Prime Minister Modi arrives in Namibia on final leg of five-nation tour

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Windhoek, Namibia, on Wednesday morning, marking the first-ever visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Namibia in nearly three decades and only the third such visit from India to the southern African nation.

PM Modi is in Namibia on a State visit at the invitation of President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah. Upon his arrival at Hosea Kutako International Airport, the Prime Minister was accorded a ceremonial welcome and greeted by Namibia’s Minister of International Relations and Trade, Selma Ashipala-Musavyi. In a symbolic gesture reflecting cultural exchange, PM Modi also tried his hand at playing traditional Namibian drums at the airport.

In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said the Prime Minister’s visit underscores India’s “multi-faceted and deep-rooted historical ties with Namibia”. The visit marks the final leg of his five-nation tour, which included stops in Ghana, Trinidad and Tobago, Argentina, and Brazil.

“During the visit, the Prime Minister will hold bilateral discussions with President Nandi-Ndaitwah. He will also pay homage to the Founding Father and first President of Namibia, the late Dr. Sam Nujoma, and is expected to address the Parliament of Namibia,” the MEA said.

The Indian diaspora in Namibia has welcomed the Prime Minister’s visit with great enthusiasm. Members of the community are preparing to greet him with a traditional Garba dance. “We are thrilled that Prime Minister Modi has arrived in Namibia. We will present a Garba dance to welcome him,” said a member of the diaspora.

In a post on X, PM Modi described Namibia as a “valued and trusted African partner” and said he looked forward to strengthening bilateral cooperation during his engagements.

“Landed in Windhoek a short while ago. Namibia is a valued and trusted African partner with whom we seek to boost bilateral cooperation. Looking forward to meeting President Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah and addressing the Namibian Parliament today,” the Prime Minister said.

July 9, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Chinese central gov’t to issue around 836.3 mln USD of sovereign bonds in Macao SAR

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

Chinese central gov’t to issue around 836.3 mln USD of sovereign bonds in Macao SAR

MACAO, July 9 — The Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) government said on Wednesday that China’s Ministry of Finance (MOF) will issue sovereign bonds totaling 6 billion yuan (about 836.3 million U.S. dollars) in Macao on July 16.

A joint announcement made by the MOF and the Macao SAR government noted that the continued issuance of renminbi-denominated sovereign bonds in Macao demonstrates the central government’s support for the SAR government in expediting the cultivation of the bond market and other new financial businesses, thereby advancing the appropriate diversification of the economy.

With a steadily increasing issuance size, the fourth consecutive year of the sovereign bond issuance is conducive to further optimizing a regular issuance mechanism, providing investors with a secure and stable investment option, the announcement said.

The Macao SAR government said the sustained issuance of sovereign bonds is believed to attract international investors to participate in Macao’s bond market, foster the growth of the offshore renminbi market in Macao, and further deepen financial cooperation between the Chinese mainland and Macao.

MIL OSI China News –

July 9, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Chinese central gov’t to issue around 836.3 mln USD of sovereign bonds in Macao SAR

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

Chinese central gov’t to issue around 836.3 mln USD of sovereign bonds in Macao SAR

MACAO, July 9 — The Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) government said on Wednesday that China’s Ministry of Finance (MOF) will issue sovereign bonds totaling 6 billion yuan (about 836.3 million U.S. dollars) in Macao on July 16.

A joint announcement made by the MOF and the Macao SAR government noted that the continued issuance of renminbi-denominated sovereign bonds in Macao demonstrates the central government’s support for the SAR government in expediting the cultivation of the bond market and other new financial businesses, thereby advancing the appropriate diversification of the economy.

With a steadily increasing issuance size, the fourth consecutive year of the sovereign bond issuance is conducive to further optimizing a regular issuance mechanism, providing investors with a secure and stable investment option, the announcement said.

The Macao SAR government said the sustained issuance of sovereign bonds is believed to attract international investors to participate in Macao’s bond market, foster the growth of the offshore renminbi market in Macao, and further deepen financial cooperation between the Chinese mainland and Macao.

MIL OSI China News –

July 9, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Tianzhou 8 spacecraft returns, disintegrates as planned

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

The Tianzhou 8 cargo spacecraft re-entered Earth’s atmosphere and burned up as planned on Wednesday morning, the China Manned Space Agency said.

Under the guidance of ground controllers, the robotic vessel re-entered at 6:42 am, the agency said in a statement. Most of the spacecraft disintegrated and burned during re-entry, with a small amount of debris falling into designated areas of the ocean.

Tianzhou 8 detached from the Tiangong space station on Tuesday afternoon, embarking on a short solo flight and leaving the port it used for the upcoming Tianzhou 9 supply mission.

The spaceship, tasked with resupplying propellants to the Chinese space station and delivering living and work necessities for the Shenzhou XIX and Shenzhou XX crews, was launched in November 2024 from the Wenchang Space Launch Center in Hainan province. Its successor, Tianzhou 9, is scheduled to lift off in the coming days from the same spaceport. It is the only cargo mission scheduled to visit the Tiangong station this year.

MIL OSI China News –

July 9, 2025
MIL-OSI China: China boasts world’s largest, fastest-growing renewable energy system: Official

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

China has built the world’s largest and fastest-growing renewable energy system, an official with the National Development and Reform Commission said Wednesday.

By the end of May, the country’s installed renewable energy capacity reached 2.09 billion kilowatts, more than double the figure at the end of the 13th Five-Year Plan period (2016-2020), Zhou Haibing, deputy head of the National Development and Reform Commission, said at a press conference.

“Today, one out of every three kilowatt-hours of electricity consumed nationwide comes from green energy sources,” Zhou added.

He also highlighted the rapid growth of China’s new energy vehicle (NEV) market, noting that the number of NEVs reached 31.4 million in 2024, a sharp increase from 4.92 million at the end of the 13th Five-Year Plan period.

MIL OSI China News –

July 9, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Xi, Bolivian president exchange congratulations on 40th anniversary of diplomatic ties

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

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Bolivian President Luis Arce exchanged congratulations on the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations on Wednesday.

Noting that China and Bolivia are good friends and good brothers, Xi said that over the 40 years since the establishment of diplomatic ties, China-Bolivia relations have withstood the test of changing international circumstances and have always maintained a sound momentum for growth.

The two sides have firmly supported each other on issues concerning their core interests and major concerns, he said, adding that the high-quality Belt and Road cooperation has yielded fruitful results, and the friendship has taken deeper roots in the hearts of the two peoples.

Xi recalled that he had a fruitful meeting with Arce last November during the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Rio de Janeiro, which charted the course for the future development of China-Bolivia relations.

He said that he attaches great importance to the development of China-Bolivia relations and is willing to work with the Bolivian president to carry forward the traditional friendship, elevate the China-Bolivia strategic partnership to new heights, so as to bring more benefits to the two peoples.

For his part, Arce noted that over the past 40 years, Bolivia and China have established a solid bilateral relationship based on mutual respect and friendly cooperation.

The Bolivian side highly commends China’s support and assistance in areas such as infrastructure, technology, energy and healthcare, and applauds China’s leadership in uniting the Global South, promoting China-Latin America cooperation and working toward a more just, equitable and inclusive international order, he said.

Bolivia is willing to continue deepening the brotherly friendship between the two peoples, he added.

MIL OSI China News –

July 9, 2025

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Government revises traffic-related fees and fixed penalties

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

The Government announced today (July 9) a proposal to adjust four traffic-related fees, including tunnel tolls, licence fees for electric private cars, the maximum fee level of parking meters, and fixed penalties for traffic offences.

The spokesperson for the Transport and Logistics Bureau said, “The 2025-26 Budget announced that the Government would focus on reviewing traffic charges and fixed penalties that have not been adjusted for many years. Our overall considerations are to enhance traffic management and maintain public fiscal discipline, reflecting the principles of ‘cost recovery’ and ‘user pays’.”

To this end, the Government has formulated a total of four legislative amendments:

(1) Road Tunnels (Government) (Amendment) (No. 2) Regulation 2025 – Adjustment of tunnel tolls

Adopting a science-based approach, the Government has reviewed the tolls for government tunnels and major roads, in the order of priority, adhering to four charging principles: traffic management needs, efficiency first, public transport first, and “user-pays”. After comprehensively considering these four principles and the specific circumstances of each tunnel and major road, it has been decided to propose increasing the tolls for the Aberdeen Tunnel and Shing Mun Tunnels, and to introduce a toll for the use of the Central Kowloon Bypass. The new tolls for the Aberdeen Tunnel and Shing Mun Tunnels will be effective on September 21, 2025, while toll collection for the Central Kowloon Bypass will commence when it is fully commissioned in 2026. The toll scheme is summarised as follows:

	Current toll (Fixed toll for all vehicles throughout the day)	Proposed toll (Fixed toll for all vehicles throughout the day)
Aberdeen Tunnel	$5	$8
Shing Mun Tunnels	$5	$8
Central Kowloon Bypass (Yau Ma Tei Section Tunnel)	/	$8

The spokesperson for the Transport and Logistics Bureau said, “The tolls for the Aberdeen Tunnel and Shing Mun Tunnels have not been adjusted for 34 years, during which time inflation has exceeded 130 per cent, resulting in operational deficits. The $8 toll is expected to have a minimal impact on traffic, and the adjusted tolls will enable the tunnels to achieve break-even in operations. On the other hand, the Central Kowloon Bypass will alleviate the current traffic congestion on major trunk roads in Kowloon, offering a shorter route with higher speeds, making it highly attractive to drivers. If no toll is charged for the use of the Central Kowloon Bypass, it is expected that its utilisation rate will approach a saturation point shortly after its commissioning. Taking into account the views of the Legislative Council (LegCo) Panel on Transport (TP) and the community, and in order to attract more motorists to use the bypass and hence achieve an effective traffic diversion, the Government is proposing an $8 toll. The proposed toll level will effectively divert approximately 20 per cent of the overall traffic from saturated major roads in Kowloon, while reserving about 15 per cent of spare capacity of the Central Kowloon Bypass to accommodate future traffic growth. It will also recover nearly 80 per cent of basic operational costs; and according to the efficiency-first principle, the fees payable by commercial and public transport vehicles will be consistent with the moderate toll charged for smaller private cars.”

The spokesperson continued, “We have also reviewed other government tunnels and trunk roads in accordance with the four major principles. In summary, taking into account the traffic management needs and traffic flow of other government tunnels and trunk roads, the traffic flow of alternative routes, as well as future transport infrastructure projects related to each route, such as the commissioning of new alternative routes, we recommend maintaining the current tolling arrangements for the time being and reviewing them again at an appropriate time.”

(2) Road Traffic (Registration and Licensing of Vehicles) (Amendment) (No. 4) Regulation 2025 – Rationalising the licence fee structure and levels for electric private cars

The existing licence fees for electric private cars are charged by vehicle unladen weight, and the licence fees for fuel-propelled private cars are about six times more than that for electric private cars. The Government proposes to revise the annual licence fee structure for electric private cars by charging licence fees based on their rated power. A five-tier licence fee structure for electric private cars based on their rated power will be introduced, and the fee levels will be suitably adjusted, which would take five phases over six years to complete, to align with technological advancements and practices in other regions. The new licence fee structure will take effect from November 1, 2025, and will apply to newly registered electric private cars, while existing electric private cars will be granted a four-month grace period. Details are as follows:

Rated power of electric private cars (kW)	Annual licence fee ($)#*
Rated power of electric private cars (kW)	November 1, 2025, to February 28, 2027 (with a 4-month grace period)	March 1, 2027, to February 29, 2028	March 1, 2028, to February 28, 2029	March 1, 2029, to February 28, 2030	March 1, 2030, onwards
≤ 75	1,500	1,750	2,000	2,500	3,000
> 75 – 125	2,000	2,500	3,000	4,000	5,000
> 125 – 175	2,500	3,500	4,500	5,500	7,000
> 175 – 225	3,000	4,500	6,000	7,500	9,000
> 225	5,000	6,500	8,000	9,500	11,000
# Exclusive of the Traffic Accident Victims Assistance Fund levy (at $114 per vehicle annually). * The fee for a licence for four months is 35 per cent of that for an annual licence, plus an additional fee of $30.

Licence fee concessions will be offered to eligible disabled electric private car owners (see note).

The spokesperson for the Transport and Logistics Bureau said, “Taking into account the views of the LegCo TP, the adjustment of electric private cars licence fees will be implemented in five phases to provide the public with a longer adaptation period. Upon adjustments, the new annual licence fee levels for electric private cars will still be 25 per cent (fifth tier) to 40 per cent (first tier) lower than the current licence fees for fuel-propelled vehicles, to continue encouraging motorists to switch to electric vehicles and promote environmental protection. According to the current type distribution of licensed electric private cars, 99 per cent of the vehicles fall within the first, second and third tiers, while the proportions of vehicles in the fourth and fifth tiers are only 1 per cent and 0.1 per cent respectively. As electric vehicles become increasingly popular, with a wider range of brands and models available on the market, and given that electric vehicles have lower energy, repair and maintenance costs compared to fuel-propelled vehicles, we expect that electric vehicles will remain appealing to motorists even after the rationalisation of annual licence fee structure and levels.”

(3) Road Traffic (Parking) (Amendment) Regulation 2025 – Adjustment of parking meter charges

To optimise the use of limited parking resources, the Government proposes to increase the maximum fee for metered parking from $2 per 15 minutes to $4 per 15 minutes, viz. a maximum fee of $16 per hour to increase the turnover of vehicles using metered parking spaces to meet the short-term parking needs of motorists. The new charges for metered parking spaces will take effect from September 28, 2025. The fees for metered parking spaces for goods vehicles, buses and coaches will be maintained at the existing level.

(4) Proposed Motion for Resolutions under the Fixed Penalty (Traffic Contraventions) Ordinance (Cap. 237) and the Fixed Penalty (Criminal Proceedings) Ordinance (Cap. 240) – Adjustment of fixed penalties for traffic offences

To enhance traffic safety and ensure a smooth traffic flow, the Government proposes to increase the fixed penalty for illegal parking from the current $320 to $400 (a 25 per cent increase). The fixed penalties for 19 other traffic offences related to road safety and traffic congestion (details in the Annex) will be increased from the current range of $320 to $1,000 to a new range of $480 to $1,500 (a 50 per cent increase). The penalty amounts for other traffic offences will remain unchanged.

The spokesperson for the Transport and Logistics Bureau said, “The fixed penalty levels for illegal parking and most of the traffic contraventions have remained unchanged for 31 years, and their deterrent effect may have been offset by inflation during this period. In fact, the fixed penalty levels of traffic contraventions in Hong Kong are much lower than those of various overseas regions. We have observed that the numbers of certain traffic offences continue to trend upwards or remain at a persistently high level. Adjusting the penalty amounts for these traffic offences will help enhance the deterrent effect, thereby safeguarding traffic safety and maintaining smooth traffic flow. At the same time, the Government will strive to increase the supply of parking spaces to meet parking demand as far as possible.”

The Road Tunnels (Government) (Amendment) (No. 2) Regulation 2025, the Road Traffic (Registration and Licensing of Vehicles) (Amendment) (No. 4) Regulation 2025, and the Road Traffic (Parking) (Amendment) Regulation 2025 will be gazetted on July 18 and tabled at the LegCo on July 23 for negative vetting. As for the penalties for traffic violations under the Schedules to the Fixed Penalty (Traffic Contraventions) Ordinance (Cap. 237) and the Fixed Penalty (Criminal Proceedings) Ordinance (Cap. 240), the LegCo may amend them by resolution under positive vetting. The Secretary for Transport and Logistics will move a motion at the LegCo meeting on July 30 to pass the resolutions. The regulatory details and effective dates are specified in respective amendment regulations and the proposed resolutions, and relevant information is set out in the LegCo brief issued by the Government today.

Note: No licence fee shall be payable where the rated power of an electric private car owned by an eligible disabled person does not exceed 75 kilowatts. Where the rated power of the electric private car exceeds 75 kilowatts, the annual licence fee payable shall be calculated by the deduction from the prescribed annual licence fee payable in respect of its rated power which does not exceed 75 kilowatts.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

July 9, 2025

MIL-Evening Report: Ice baths are booming in popularity – but they come with health risks

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Samuel Cornell, PhD Candidate in Public Health & Community Medicine, School of Population Health, UNSW Sydney

Michele Ursi/Getty Images

Walk through any trendy suburb and you might find a new “wellness” studio offering ice baths or “contrast therapy” (a sauna and ice bath combo).

Scroll social media, and you’re likely to come across influencers preaching the cold plunge gospel with cult-like zeal.

Ice baths have gone mainstream. Initially practised mainly among high-performance athletes, cold water immersion is now a booming business model: sold as recovery, discipline and therapy all in one.

But the benefits are questionable and, importantly, ice baths can have health risks – particularly for people who have limited experience using them.

From Roman times to today

Cold water immersion isn’t a new concept.

The “frigidarium” – a room with a cold plunge pool or bath – was a feature in most Roman bathhouses.

For decades, athletes have used cold water immersion, such as swims in cold water, for recovery.

But in recent years, with the proliferation of commercial cold plunge centres, there’s been an explosion in people using ice baths recreationally.

Many people are even setting up their own ice baths at home. The global cold plunge tub market was valued at close to US$338 million in 2024 and is projected to reach nearly $483 million by 2033.

Social media shows serene influencers meditating through the pain, claiming it boosts mental health, serotonin, testosterone, and their metabolism. But does the evidence stack up?

Ice baths can reduce muscle soreness after intense training, however the effect is modest and short-lived.

Some research shows cold water immersion can improve mood after a single exposure in young, healthy people, but other research doesn’t find these benefits.

Most claims about mental health, testosterone and weight loss aren’t backed by strong evidence. Rather, they’re anecdotal and amplified by influencers.

Read more:
Cold water therapy: what are the benefits and dangers of ice baths, wild swimming and freezing showers?

What does an ice bath involve?

At commercial establishments, patrons can often use the ice baths as they please during a booked session. Ice bath temperatures often range anywhere from 3°C to 15°C. There normally isn’t actual ice in the bath, but some people add blocks of ice to their ice baths at home.

Businesses offering ice baths don’t always actively supervise patrons or monitor a person’s time in the ice bath. They may leave their customers to self-regulate, assuming people will know to get out of the water before they pass their body’s limits.

So what are the risks?

Cold water immersion triggers a powerful physiological response. When you hit cold water below 15°C, your body launches into cold shock. Gasping occurs and breathing becomes rapid and uncontrollable. Heart rate spikes. Blood pressure rises.

Staying in the water for too long can lead to hypothermia, a condition where a person’s core body temperature drops dangerously low.

Shivering may begin within minutes in cold water. Confusion or fainting are more serious signs that hypothermia may be developing.

Occasionally, this “cold shock” response can lead to a heart attack or stroke – especially if you have an undiagnosed condition affecting your heart, blood vessels or brain.

As far back as 1969, researchers found even experienced swimmers could struggle after just a few minutes in cold water. Participants were immersed in water at 4.7°C while fully clothed and asked to swim as if trying to reach safety. Some developed serious respiratory distress and had to stop swimming within as little as 90 seconds, well before any measurable drop in core body temperature.

Even after you get out, your core temperature can continue to fall – a phenomenon known as afterdrop. So you can encounter problems, such as collapse, even after leaving the water.

And even young, healthy people can be caught off guard. The body isn’t designed to endure freezing water for extended periods.

Recently one of us (Sam Cornell) had to provide first aid at an ice bath venue in Sydney. A young man collapsed after staying in an ice bath for ten minutes. He was shivering uncontrollably and clearly suffering from cold shock.

Cold exposure can also cause long-term damage to nerves and blood vessels in the hands and feet, known as non-freezing cold injury. This is more likely if someone spends an extended period immersed in cold water. Symptoms such as numbness, pain and sensitivity to cold can persist for years.

6 tips for safer recreational ice bath use

The ice bath trend is part of a broader wellness movement, promoted to young men in particular, where discomfort is repackaged as discipline. Push through the pain. Master your body. If you feel terrible, you must be doing it right.

But behind the hype lies a less appealing truth. Ice baths can be dangerous.

We advise caution, but if you do choose to try an ice bath, treat it seriously and follow these tips to reduce the risk of harm.

1. Talk to your doctor: get checked out first. If you or your family have any heart, stroke or respiratory risk, skip it

2. Know your limits: being fit doesn’t protect you from cold shock

3. Start gradually: begin with short warm to cold showers before full immersion

4. Never go alone: always have someone with you, especially if you’re new to ice baths

5. Keep it short and watch the temperature: limit sessions to 3–5 minutes and remember, problems can still occur after you get out

6. Recognise the signs of danger: symptoms such as shivering, numbness and confusion can all seem like part of the experience to someone bent on pushing themselves. But these can be signs of hypothermia.

Samuel Cornell receives funding from Meta Platforms, Inc. His research is supported by a University of New South Wales Sydney, University Postgraduate Award. His research is supported by Royal Life Saving Society – Australia to aid in the prevention of drowning. Research at Royal Life Saving Society – Australia is supported by the Australian government. He has been affiliated with Surf Life Saving Australia and Surf Life Saving NSW in a paid and voluntary capacity.

Michael Tipton has previously received funding from organisations working in drowning prevention and water safety. He is Chair of the UK National Water Safety Forum, hosted by the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), and a member of Council of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI).

– ref. Ice baths are booming in popularity – but they come with health risks – https://theconversation.com/ice-baths-are-booming-in-popularity-but-they-come-with-health-risks-260206

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

July 9, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: Israel’s Rafah camp – ‘humanitarian city’ or crime against humanity?

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Shannon Bosch, Associate Professor (Law), Edith Cowan University

Israel’s Defence Minister Israel Katz has announced a controversial plan to move up to 600,000 Palestinians in Gaza into a designated “humanitarian area” on the ruins of the southern city of Rafah.

Access to the camp would be through strict security screening to ensure entrants were not Hamas operatives. Once inside, the perimeter would be sealed off by the Israeli military. Palestinians would not be allowed to leave.

Eventually the camp would house the entire 2.1 million population of Gaza.

Camp construction would begin during the proposed 60-day ceasefire being negotiated by Israel and Hamas

‘Illegal and inhumane’

The plan is illegal, inhumane and risks worsening the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

The forced displacement and containment of any civilian population in an occupied territory is a violation of international humanitarian law.

Done on this scale would constitute a war crime and a crime against humanity under the Rome Statute.

The UN Security Council, UN General Assembly and UN Commission on Human Rights have all condemned instances of forced transfer in armed conflicts.

So too, the International Committee of the Red Cross and the Red Crescent, which have stressed the fundamental prohibition of forced displacement of a civilian population and the need for all parties to respect this prohibition.

For their own protection?

Katz is describing the camp as a “humanitarian city”. The Israeli military says Palestinians would only be contained for their own protection.

As we have seen, civilian displacement is prohibited. But there is an exception if a case can be made either for military reasons or the protection of the population.

However, this exception only exists for as long as the conditions warrant for it to exist. Anyone subject to such an evacuation must be transferred back to their homes as soon as possible.

Imperative military reasons never justify the removal of a civilian population in order to persecute it. The Guiding Principles on Internal Displacement entrenches the duty of international actors to avoid creating the conditions that might lead to the displacement of people.

Aid dilemma

Katz has indicated international organisations would be responsible for managing aid and services inside the area.

But Israel has a history of defying even orders from the International Court of Justice to allow humanitarian aid to reach the Palestinians in Gaza.

If international humanitarian agencies were called upon to service the camp, they would face a dilemma.

They would need to decide whether to cooperate in managing aid under conditions that compromise their neutrality and ethical standards, deny basic human rights and are built on violations of international law.

Aid groups would risk being complicit in a process that sets up a transit camp for Palestinians before possibly expelling them from Gaza altogether.

This “humanitarian city” would essentially become an open-air prison. Palestinians would be reliant on international aid under strict Israeli military control.

Mass expulsion?

Could the Rafah camp be a precursor to mass expulsion from Gaza and what does international law say about that?

Katz has been quoted saying Israel aims to implement “the emigration plan, which will happen” – meaning Gazans will eventually be forced to leave for other countries.

Changing the demographic composition of a territory – ethnic cleansing – achieved through the displacement of the civilian population of a territory is strictly prohibited under international law.

The idea of displacing Palestinians has long been part of Israeli strategic thinking, but this announcement signals a dangerous escalation and intention to permanently alter Gaza’s demographic landscape through displacement and containment.

Voluntary exodus?

According to Katz, Gazans would have the option of “voluntary” emigration.

Indeed, speaking at the White House this week, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said there would be no forced exodus from Gaza:

If people want to stay, they can stay, but if they want to leave, they should be able to leave.

But the scale of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza is incomprehensible.

The population has been displaced multiple times and 90% of homes in Gaza are damaged or destroyed. The healthcare, water, sanitation and hygiene systems have collapsed.

On average 100 Palestinians are killed daily as they try to access food.

These crisis circumstances negate the voluntary nature of any person’s consent to either the transfer to the Rafah camp or ultimately, the departure from Gaza.

According to Amos Goldberg, historian of the Holocaust at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, what the defence minister laid out was clear plans for the ethnic cleansing of Gaza:

[it is] a transit camp for Palestinians before they expel them. It is neither humanitarian nor a city.

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

– ref. Israel’s Rafah camp – ‘humanitarian city’ or crime against humanity? – https://theconversation.com/israels-rafah-camp-humanitarian-city-or-crime-against-humanity-260809

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

July 9, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Greens react to Rachel Reeves support for taxes on wealth

Source: Green Party of England and Wales

9 July 2025/ 9 July 2025 by Green Party

Reacting to revelations in the Telegraph that Rachel Reeves supported at least five taxes on wealth while a back bencher, co-leader of the Green Party, Adrian Ramsay MP, said:

“A former leader of her party backs it, so too do several unions. But it now turns out that Rachel Reeves herself backed wealth taxes – including equalising capital gains and income tax and reforming inheritance tax – while a back bencher.

“The chancellor needs to listen to the resounding cries for the introduction of taxes on wealth, including from the public – a new YouGov poll shows 75% are in favour of a 2% tax on wealth above £10 million. Rachel Reeves also needs to listen to Rachel Reeves, as it is clear that she, like the Green Party, has long championed the idea of taxing wealth fairly.”

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

July 9, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ17: Combating online investment scams

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

     Following is a question by Professor the Hon Priscilla Leung and a written reply by the Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui, in the Legislative Council today (July 9):

Question:

     According to the data provided by the Government in its reply to a question raised by a Member of this Council in June this year, the Police recorded a total of 1 534 cases of online investment scams involving an amount of about $1.02 billion in the first four months of this year. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:

(1) given that the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) has launched anti-scam publicity and education programmes targeting three common investment scam scenarios, whether the Government has formulated specific measures to support SFC’s anti-scam publicity programmes, so as to raise public vigilance against investment scams; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;

(2) whether it has plans to strengthen its co-operation with the SFC to update and enhance investor education, so as to ensure that investors can effectively identify and guard against emerging investment risks as well as evolving fraudulent practices and technologies; and

(3) whether it has devised further strategies or allocated additional resources to extend the impact of the “Don’t be Sucker” anti-scam publicity campaign launched by the SFC, so as to enable more investors to benefit from the campaign and avoid becoming victims of online investment scams; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?

Reply:

President,

     The Government attaches great importance to investor education, and is committed to supporting the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) and its subsidiary, the Investor and Financial Education Council (IFEC), in enhancing the financial literacy of the public through various means and channels. In consultation with the Security Bureau, the SFC and the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA), my reply to the various parts of the question is as follows.

(1) and (2) In the first five months of 2025, there were 1 849 cases of online investment scams recorded by the Police, involving about $1.24 billion. The Government accords high priority to investor protection, and strives to combat online investment scams through two main directions, namely promotion and enforcement.

     On promotion, the Government, together with the SFC and the IFEC, has been striving to enhance investors’ anti-financial scam capabilities, raise the public’s knowledge in relevant financial products, and remind investors of the risks associated with digital finance.

     In March 2025, the IFEC in collaboration with various stakeholders organised the “Hong Kong Money Month” with the theme of “Guard against Fraud Thrive with Resilience” to comprehensively promote anti-scam messages by publicising anti-scam information targeting different segments of the community through cross-media promotion. The promotion videos recorded a total of 20.6 million views during the promotion period. In the face of ever-changing technology and evolving fraud tactics, the IFEC has also introduced various anti-financial scam education resources, animated videos, online seminars, etc to educate the public on safeguarding against investment scams including “ramp and dump” schemes, social media investment groups, fraudulent trading apps or investment platforms, impersonation scams, deepfake technology and phishing messages, etc. The IFEC website also features fraud prevention online games and an anti-scam online quiz, enabling the public to gain anti-scam knowledge through engaging and interactive games.

     The IFEC launched Hong Kong’s first digital financial education experiential learning centre, the IFEC FinEd Hub, in March 2024 to offer investment and anti-scam education to a wider audience through immersive and interactive learning experiences. The FinEd Hub features various interactive anti-scam games for visitors to learn how to identify and respond to various financial scams. As of end-June 2025, the FinEd Hub has recorded over 26 500 visits, with the vast majority of visitors indicating that their visit had enhanced their anti-scam knowledge.

     On the other hand, the HKMA has introduced “Money Safe” with banks to provide an extra layer of security to customers’ bank deposits. “Money Safe” enables customers to segregate a portion of their deposits maintained at banks, protecting them from fund outflows through online and other channels. When releasing the protected deposits, customers would need to undertake extra verification process by staff at bank branches. All retail banks will fully implement “Money Safe” by the end of this year.

     As regards enforcement actions against online investment scams, given that most fraud cases in Hong Kong currently involve the use of stooge accounts for receiving funds, targeting such accounts is an effective way to disrupt the fraud value chain. In the first five months of 2025, the Police arrested a total of 3 028 persons in connection with various fraud and money laundering offences, about 70 per cent of whom were holders of stooge accounts. Since the end of 2023, the Police have also applied to the courts to invoke section 27 of the Organized and Serious Crimes Ordinance (Cap. 455) to seek enhanced penalties for cases involving stooge accounts, so as to strengthen deterrence. There have been cases where convicted stooge account holders received sentences increased by more than 30 per cent.

     The Hong Kong Police Force, together with the police authorities of the Macao Special Administrative Region, Malaysia, Maldives, Singapore, South Korea, and Thailand, has also conducted the first joint operation under the anti-fraud cross-boundary co-operation platform “FRONTIER+” to jointly combat cross-boundary fraud criminal activity. The operation successfully identified and dismantled multiple cross-boundary fraud syndicates, resulting in the arrest of 1 858 persons and involving 9 268 fraud cases, including investment fraud. In addition, noting the increase in online investment scams at the beginning of 2025, the Hong Kong Police have, over the past few months, held press conferences from time to time and stepped up publicity through various channels to remind the public to remain vigilant.

(3) The SFC launched a new anti-scam campaign “Don’t be Sucker” in December 2024 to caution the public against common tactics used in fraudulent schemes. An original cartoon character “Shui Yu”, symbolising an impulsive and gullible personality that easily fall prey to investment scams, debuted in the campaign.

     Complementing the SFC’s focused promotion of three common scams that the public should avoid (namely online romance scams, impersonation, and deceptive tips from financial influencers), the SFC has rolled out an original campaign theme song and a music video featuring “Shui Yu”, which has recorded over one million views within about three months since its launch. As of end-June 2025, the SFC has published about 50 posts on the social media platform of “Shui Yu”, which has attracted more than 1 500 followers and over 423 000 views by unique users.

     To further promote anti-scam messages through “Shui Yu”, the SFC has produced “Shui Yu”-themed messaging app stickers to spread anti-scam messages in a light-hearted way. Apart from various online and offline advertisements, the SFC extended the “Don’t be Sucker” anti-scam publicity campaign through MTR station commercials and a TV infotainment programme in May to June 2025, garnering more than 1.6 million views in estimate.

     In fact, the Government has been proactively enhancing public awareness of various kinds of scams. The Police have set up the Anti-Deception Coordination Centre since July 2017 to consolidate the efforts of the Police in combating and preventing scams, and have introduced various initiatives including the 24-hour enquiry hotline “Anti-Scam Helpline 18222”, and the “Upstream Scam Intervention” scheme to actively identify potential scam victims.

     In addition, the Police have introduced an anti-scam mascot “The Little Grape” since June 2020 to explain the latest tactics of scammers and disseminate simple anti-scam messages in a friendly and interactive manner. Various “The Little Grape” anti-scam promotional campaigns have also been organised over the past five years. Thanks to these initiatives and the collective efforts of the community, the annual growth rate of scam cases has significantly decelerated from nearly 90 per cent in 2020 to 11.7 per cent last year, indicating a rise in public awareness of scam prevention.

     Going forward, the Government will continue to support relevant organisations and stakeholders in collaboratively launching targeted promotion activities to raise the anti-scam awareness of the public.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

July 9, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ6: Indecent assault cases on public transport

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Following is a question by the Hon Lam San-keung and a reply by the Secretary for Security, Mr Tang Ping-keung, in the Legislative Council today (July 9):

Question:

In recent years, there have been sporadic cases of indecent assault on public transport which arouse public concern. On the other hand, there are views that physical contact between individuals is difficult to be avoided in crowded vehicle compartments and could be mistaken for indecent assault. Moreover, society’s expectations for safety, comfort and mutual respect among passengers on public transport are increasing. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:

(1) of the number of indecent assault cases occurred on public transport that the Police received in each of the past five years, and the percentage of these cases out of the total number of cases occurring on public transport; the number of convictions among these indecent assault cases; whether it knows the average time taken by the courts to adjudicate these indecent assault cases; and

(2) whether it will consider introducing women-only or men-only zones or compartments on public transport mass-carriers (e.g. the MTR and franchised buses); if so, of the implementation timetable; if not, the reasons for that?

Reply:

President,

The Police attach great importance to all cases involving sexual offences and are dedicated to investigating each of them thoroughly, with particular focus on offences taking place on public transport. At present, sexual offences occurred on public transport are mainly indecent assault cases (i.e. offence of indecent assault under the Crimes Ordinance (Cap. 200)), for which offenders shall be liable on conviction on indictment to imprisonment for 10 years. There are also cases of voyeurism and unlawful recording or observation of intimate parts (commonly known as “upskirt photography”), both of which carry a maximum penalty of five years of imprisonment under the Crimes Ordinance.

The Police will continue to strengthen patrols by uniformed and plain-clothes officers in relevant areas, and will work closely with public transport operators to jointly combat indecent assault and its related offences on public transport. In parallel, the Police will step up publicity and education efforts to enhance public awareness and encourage members of the public to report crimes.

In consultation with the Transport and Logistics Bureau, the reply to the Member’s question is as follows:

(1) In the past five years, the number of reports received by the Police on sexual offences occurred on public transport/interchanges/transport stations, including offences of indecent assault, voyeurism and unlawful recording or observation of intimate parts under the Crimes Ordinance, accounted for about seven per cent to 21 per cent of all offences occurred on public transport. Please refer to the Annex for details. For the first five months of 2025, the Police received a total of 141 relevant reports, which accounted for about 14 per cent of the total number of offences occurred on public transport/interchanges/transport stations.

The Government maintains neither a breakdown on the number of convictions of the above sexual offences by place of occurrence nor relevant statistics on the time taken by courts to adjudicate such cases.

(2) As to whether women-only or men-only zones or compartments shall be introduced on various mass public transport modes (such as MTR and franchised buses), a number of considerations are relevant. The public transport system in Hong Kong carries a total patronage of more than 11 million passenger trips daily, with the MTR and franchised buses being the main travelling means handling over 5 million and 3.7 million passenger trips per day respectively.

The MTR is one of the railway systems with the most frequent services in the world. In 2024, the heavy rail and light rail operated over 2.71 million trips, with train services reaching about one train in every two minutes during peak hours.

The MTR Corporation Limited (MTRCL) has made reference to some overseas experience but assessed that it would not be appropriate to introduce women-only or men-only compartments in the MTR network. At present, during peak hours, the MTR system is generally crowded at platforms (especially at interchange stations), and the MTRCL has to make good use of the space on platform as well as inside train compartment to ease the passenger flow. Introducing dedicated train compartments would affect the management of passenger flow at stations and platforms, as well as the flow of passengers between train compartments. In addition, most of the MTR train compartments are of open design and it is operationally difficult to control passengers to follow the arrangement. Therefore, the MTRCL has no plan at this stage to introduce dedicated train compartments.

To prevent crimes of indecent assaults in the railway premises, the MTRCL has put up posters at stations to step up the promotion of anti-crime messages on indecent assaults. Passengers are encouraged not to remain silent, and report incidents or crimes of indecent assaults immediately to the Police or station staff. The MTR station staff are properly trained to assist the Police in combating crimes. In addition, the MTRCL and the Police hold regular anti-crime meetings to share information about the latest crime trend and intelligence, and to deliberate on specific strategies to combat crimes. The MTRCL also organises publicity activities in collaboration with the Police (including regular anti-crime publicity activities organised annually) so as to raise passengers’ anti-crime awareness.

In respect of franchised buses, many routes have high occupancy rates during peak hours. As there is limited space in the compartments and passengers board and alight in the same aisle, setting up dedicated areas inside the compartments will affect the passenger-carrying efficiency of buses. In addition, it will be operationally difficult to ensure that passengers follow the arrangements. Franchised bus companies will co-operate with the police to enhance efforts in combating crimes.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

July 9, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Master scholarships to be available under CSC & Chevening SIDS
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

World news story

Master scholarships to be available under CSC & Chevening SIDS

This was made possible by the UK government’s commitment to providing opportunities to empower young people from Small Island Developing States with access to education and skills.
Our current Chevening Scholars at the Chevening Farewell in London.

Citizens of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) will be able to pursue a one-year master’s degree at their university of choice in the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland beginning in 2026.

This was made possible by the UK Government’s commitment to providing opportunities to empower young people from SIDS with access to education and skills.

To support the UK’s announcement at last year’s Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Samoa, the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission and Chevening are providing up to 40 Masters scholarships for exceptional candidates from SIDS.

Scholars from both programmes will receive a UK programme experience that includes exclusive networking events with fellow scholars from SIDS and key influencers from around the world. This added benefit complements the existing scholarship, offering a broader platform for professional growth and future collaboration.

Interested applicants are advised to note the different selection and application processes between both Chevening SIDS Scholarships and Commonwealth Scholarship Commission SIDS.

For Chevening SIDS scholarship, applicants will apply through the standard application process. During the application, you will have the option to tick a box indicating your interest in being considered for the Chevening SIDS Scholarship. The highest-ranking applicant(s) from each participating country will be considered.

For Commonwealth Scholarship Commission SIDS, 20 scholarships will be guaranteed with specific enrichment opportunities, but application processes remain the same as for usual master’s programmes. Here, national nominating agencies are involved. For Solomon Islands, the National Scholarship Division of the Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development (MEHRD) is the nominating agency.

Successful candidates will undertake study fields that help to address a national development priority or capacity shortage. This includes courses relating to:

human rights, democracy, and the rule of law

climate change and sustainability

economic recovery and growth and

supportive societies that help people lead peaceful and productive lives

Countries that are eligible for the Chevening SIDS Scholarship includes Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Bahamas, Belize, Dominica, Fiji, Granada, Guyana, Jamaica, Kiribati, Maldives, Mauritius, Nauru, Papua New Guinea, St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Seychelles, Singapore, Tonga, Tuvalu, Trinidad and Tobago and Vanuatu.

Eligible countries for the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission SIDS are Belize, Dominica, Fiji, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, Kiribati, Maldives, Mauritius, Monserrat, Nauru, Papua New Guinea, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and The Grenadines, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu.

In addition to the standard benefits of a Chevening Scholarship, the Chevening SIDS Scholarship includes an enhanced UK programme including a series of exclusive events and opportunities designed to enhance your experience in the UK.

There are also exclusive networking opportunities where scholars will be invited to a welcome event at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) to kick-start their journey. Here, they will have the opportunity to network with SIDS scholars from the Commonwealth Scholarships Commission, as well as FCDO officials.

Like all Chevening scholars, after graduation scholars will join the wider global Chevening alumni community, connecting with alumni from across the world. Additionally, they will be eligible to apply for funding from the Chevening Alumni Programme Fund, which supports regional projects and events led by alumni. Scholars may also be invited to speak or participate in UK-SIDS workshops and events in their area of expertise.

Candidates may note that opting to be considered for the Chevening SIDS Scholarship does not impact their chances of being selected for a Chevening Scholarship. They will still be considered for the standard Chevening Scholarship if they choose not to apply for the SIDS Scholarship.

We encourage all eligible SIDS applicants to apply for the Chevening Scholarship and to consider opting in for the Chevening SIDS Scholarship to access this unique programme of enhanced opportunities and networking.

Applications for the Chevening SIDS Scholarships will open in August and close in October while applications for the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission SIDS will open in September and close in October 2025.

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Updates to this page

Published 9 July 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
July 9, 2025
Over 1.11 lakh pilgrims perform Amarnath Yatra in first six days

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

More than 1.11 lakh devotees have undertaken the annual Amarnath Yatra in just six days since the pilgrimage began on July 3, officials confirmed on Wednesday. Another batch of 7,579 pilgrims departed from Jammu earlier today, continuing the spiritual journey to the holy cave shrine nestled in the Kashmir Himalayas.

According to officials, a total of 1,11,000 pilgrims have had ‘darshan’ at the sacred cave shrine so far. The latest group left the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu in two heavily guarded convoys. The first convoy, comprising 133 vehicles carrying 3,031 pilgrims, departed at 3:25 a.m. en route to the Baltal base camp. The second convoy of 169 vehicles, with 4,548 pilgrims aboard, left at 3:40 a.m. for the Nunwan base camp in Pahalgam.

Officials from the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB), which oversees the yatra, said that in addition to those traveling from Jammu, a significant number of pilgrims have been registering on-site directly at Baltal and Nunwan.

The Meteorological Department has forecast rainfall across Jammu and Kashmir over the next 24 hours, with the possibility of isolated intense showers and thunderstorms.

Security arrangements remain at their highest alert level in light of the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam’s Baisaran meadow, where Pakistan-backed terrorists killed 26 civilians. In response, authorities have deployed an additional 180 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), reinforcing existing personnel from the Army, BSF, CRPF, SSB, and local police. All transit camps and routes—from Jammu’s Bhagwati Nagar to the base camps and onwards to the shrine—are under multi-tier security coverage.

Despite the shadow of past violence, the Yatra has witnessed strong local support. Residents have welcomed pilgrims warmly, with many standing at entry points such as the Navyug Tunnel near Qazigund, offering garlands and placards.

This year’s Amarnath Yatra will run for 38 days, concluding on August 9, coinciding with the sacred festivals of Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan.

The cave shrine, located 3,888 meters above sea level, is accessible via two primary routes: the traditional 46-km trail from Pahalgam, which passes through Chandanwari, Sheshnag, and Panchtarni; and the shorter 14-km Baltal route, which allows pilgrims to complete the round trip within a single day.

Due to heightened security concerns, helicopter services have been suspended for this year’s Yatra.

(With agencies inputs)

July 9, 2025
MIL-OSI China: China expands work injury insurance program for new occupations

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

A deliveryman prepares to change electric motorcycle battery at “the stage of deliverymen” in Gongshu District of Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang province, March 15, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

China’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security on Tuesday announced that the country has expanded a trial occupational injury insurance program to cover more workers engaged in new forms of employment.

On July 1, 10 provincial-level regions and multiple platform companies, including ride-hailing giant Didi Chuxing, were added to the trial program, which had already covered seven provincial-level regions and seven platform companies, the ministry said.

By 2026, the program will be expanded to all provincial-level regions across the country and generally all platform companies in the ride-hailing, rapid delivery and intra-city freight sectors, according to the ministry. By 2027, the initiative could include platform companies in other industries.

Launched in July 2022, the trial program has seen over 12.3 million workers in relatively new forms of employment — like delivery workers and ride-hailing drivers — covered by occupational injury insurance, providing them with critical protections should they experience a severe workplace accident.

MIL OSI China News –

July 9, 2025
MIL-OSI China: China unveils guidelines to improve one-stop government services

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

China on Tuesday released guidelines on providing regular, one-stop government services for major matters to improve administrative efficiency.

Efforts will be made to drive improved coordination across government departments and integrate government services in more areas, aiming to boost governance capabilities and optimize the country’s business environment, according to the guidelines, which were published by the General Office of the State Council.

The guidelines outline key tasks, including strengthening the list management of major matters covered by one-stop government services, promoting the regular implementation of plans related to those major matters, and expanding the application of one-stop government services.

They call for efficient resource use, warning firmly against “vanity projects” in government services, and underscore coordinated planning to integrate advanced technologies like large AI models into government services in a sound, orderly manner.

Additionally, they stress the need to improve the nationwide online government services platform, enhance system integration and the interconnectivity of relevant services, and strengthen security protection.

MIL OSI China News –

July 9, 2025
MIL-OSI China: China to contribute more wisdom, technology to global high-speed rail development

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

Guests attend the 12th World Congress on High-Speed Rail in Beijing, capital of China, July 8, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

Chinese Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing on Tuesday said that China will contribute more wisdom, technology and solutions to the development of high-speed rail around the world, upholding the vision of extensive consultation, joint contribution and shared benefits.

Zhang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks when addressing the opening ceremony of the 12th UIC World Congress on High-Speed Rail.

Driven by a commitment to innovation-led development, China has built the world’s largest high-speed railway network and become a global leader in high-speed rail technology. These achievements have significantly enhanced travel convenience, strengthened regional connectivity, and promoted balanced economic and social development for China, Zhang said.

He noted that China is ready to deepen cooperation with other countries by actively advancing bilateral and multilateral railway partnerships, and to enhance connectivity through both “hard connectivity” in infrastructure and the “soft connectivity” of rules and standards.

Zhang also stressed the importance of strengthening technology sharing. China, he said, is willing to share its experience in high-speed railway construction and operations with other countries, and to work with other countries to promote the application of cutting-edge technologies in the sector.

Efforts should also be made to coordinate the implementation of major projects and “small yet beautiful” livelihood initiatives to support economic growth more effectively and improve public well-being, he added.

Themed “High-Speed Rail: Innovation and Development for a Better Life,” the 12th UIC World Congress on High-Speed Rail opened on Tuesday, attracting more than 2,000 participants from over 60 countries, regions and international organizations.

Hosted by China State Railway Group Co., Ltd. and the International Union of Railways (UIC), the congress aims to provide a platform to showcase global high-speed rail achievements, facilitate technology exchange and promote international industrial cooperation.

At a parallel exhibition on modern railway technology and equipment, 30 advanced trains and locomotives are on display, including a prototype of China’s CR450 electrical multiple unit, which is the world’s fastest high-speed train, with test speeds of up to 450 km per hour and an operational speed of 400 km per hour.

Initiated by the UIC in 1992, the congress is convened every two to three years.

MIL OSI China News –

July 9, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Ghana: President Mahama inaugurates Gold Board (Goldbod) task force

Source: APO

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President John Dramani Mahama on Tuesday inaugurated a Gold Board Task Force, a critical strategic arm poised to enforce the mandate of the newly established Ghana Gold Board (Goldbod) and champion a paradigm shift towards value addition and national sovereignty in the country’s gold sector.

Speaking at the official inauguration ceremony, President Mahama stated that, under Act 1140, Goldbod now holds exclusive rights to purchase and export all gold produced in Ghana, except for gold produced by large-scale mining firms.

“Through the GoldBod, we are setting national sovereignty over our mineral wealth and introducing a paradigm shift from raw extraction to value addition,” President Mahama said.

He emphasised that the Task Force is far more than just a security initiative. “It is a strategic arm of national economic transformation,” the President noted, “purposefully designed to restore integrity, accountability, and value to Ghana’s gold sector.”

In a strong warning to illicit operators, President Mahama declared, “Let this serve as a clear warning to all those involved in gold smuggling and the illegal trade. The law is going to be enforced without fear or favour.”

To encourage public participation in combating illegal activities, the President announced a reward system: whistleblowers whose leads result in arrests or the retrieval of gold or cash will receive a 10% lump sum of the value involved.

Addressing members of the newly inaugurated Task Force, President Mahama cautioned sternly against any form of compromise or abuse of their authority.

He served notice that any member found to be in breach of their mandate would face severe sanctions, including outright dismissal, prosecution, and forfeiture of their entitlements.

The President further detailed the stringent penalties enshrined in the Goldbod Act, 2025, for violations by any individual or entity operating outside the law.

“Any breach of this Act,” he warned, “could lead to a hefty fine of up to GHS 2.4 million or imprisonment for a term of five to 10 years, or both.”

Key provisions of the Goldbod Act highlighted by the President include a strict prohibition of unlicensed trading of gold and an explicit ban on foreigners purchasing gold on the local market.

He clarified that foreign entities interested in legitimate engagement with Ghana’s gold sector may apply to the Goldbod for licences to offtake gold or invest in refining and value-adding processes.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency, Republic of Ghana.

MIL OSI Africa –

July 9, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: South Sudan: Twic County messengers ignite hope by informing communities of outcome of youth peace dialogue

Source: APO

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To help implement a recent peace deal struck in Wau by Twic and Ngok Dinka youth, a coalition of civil society activists and leaders in Twic County have circulated key resolutions of the agreement in six areas of Twic County.

Visiting Ajak-Kuac, Aweng, Turalei, Wunrok, Panyok, and Akocthon, the messengers gathered about 45 stakeholders in each location. Entertained and energized by cultural performances, women, youth, intellectuals, officials and traditional leaders have been informed about what actions the previously feuding parties have agreed on.

“We, the elders, must lead by example, but also learn from our youth when they demonstrate that dialogue is more powerful than weapons. It’s time to silence the drums of war and listen to the voices of peace,” Ayuel Ayuel, an Executive Chief from Turalei, urged his community.

The resolutions reached demonstrate a mutual commitment to peace. An immediate halt to hostilities between the Twic and Abyei communities, free movement of people and goods, and putting an end to all forms of hate speech are actions that have all been agreed on.

“When young people take the lead to make peace happen, the future changes. We are no longer waiting for others to solve our problems; we act. Through dialogue, we rebuild trust among ourselves,” said Abraham Yak, a youth leader from Wunrok.

One remaining dispute, about land in Anet, south of the Kiir River, will be referred to government officials to resolve, in consultation with representatives from both sides.

In a gesture of appreciation of the peacebuilding work undertaken by volunteering grassroots, Twic County Commissioner John Mabior has committed local government resources to support their efforts.

“We will assist with free movement, protect community gatherings, and hold perpetrators of hate speech accountable. Our people deserve a future free from fear,” he commented.

Titled “Promoting Peaceful Coexistence Between the Two Communities,” the discussions united Twic and Ngok Dinka representatives, resulting in resolutions aimed at reducing tensions and encouraging reconciliation.

The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) have supported both the youth peace dialogue and the subsequent outreach activities to spread the word of what has been agreed on.

“Peace begins in communities, not in conference halls. Twic County is a good example of reconciliation, resilience and a commitment to live together in harmony,” said Georgina Sarfo Brobbey, a Civil Affairs Officer serving with the peacekeeping mission.

Residents of Twic County have also urged national and local authorities to do their part to curb the circulation of mis- and disinformation, not least through joint community media efforts.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).

MIL OSI Africa –

July 9, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Statement by Anita Kiki Gbeho, Deputy Special Representative of the UN Secretary General, on South Sudan’s 14th anniversary of Independence

Source: APO

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As South Sudan approaches 14 years of independence, I reiterate the United Nations’ ongoing support to the country and its people.

This year’s Independence Day offers South Sudan’s leaders a renewed opportunity to prioritize the rights, dignity and safety of every citizen by returning to consensus-based decision-making, amid significant challenges.

At this critical juncture, finding common and constructive solutions to issues that affect all South Sudanese is essential for a peaceful democratic transition. We, therefore, urge everyone – political and security actors, youth, women, traditional leaders, the disabled, civil society and communities alike – to unite in the spirit of compromise and redouble efforts towards stability and security.

Now, more than ever, collective action is needed to reduce tensions, resolve political differences and make tangible progress in implementing peace.

We, as the UN, remain South Sudan’s steadfast partner as it strives to deliver lasting peace and prosperity for its people.

Happy Independence Day!

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).

MIL OSI Africa –

July 9, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: President Ramkalawan Receives Distinguished Chinese Delegation as Nations Strengthen Bilateral Cooperation Framework

Source: APO

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The President of the Republic, Mr. Wavel Ramkalawan received His Excellency Mr. Wang Xiaohui, Secretary of the CPC Sichuan Provincial Committee and Chairman of the Standing Committee of Sichuan Provincial People’s Congress, for a courtesy call at State House Tuesday morning. The distinguished delegation, accompanied by H.E Ms. Lin Nan, Chinese Ambassador to Seychelles, engaged in comprehensive discussions to advance bilateral cooperation following the recent elevation of China-Seychelles relations to a Strategic Partnership.

President Ramkalawan extended a warm welcome to H.E. Mr. Wang Xiaohui and his delegation, expressing profound satisfaction with the exemplary bilateral relations that continue to flourish between Seychelles and China. The President highlighted the transformative impact of the inaugural direct flight route from Chengdu to Seychelles, noting that “with the direct flight from Chengdu to Seychelles, its presence will attract local business investment and reinforce the trade element,” thereby opening new avenues for economic collaboration and cultural exchange.

His Excellency Mr. Xiaohui conveyed his honour at visiting Seychelles, acknowledging President Ramkalawan’s distinguished visit to Sichuan Province the previous year as a cornerstone of their diplomatic relationship. Expressing gratitude for the exceptional hospitality accorded to the delegation, Mr. Xiaohui commended the robust relationship between China and Seychelles while articulating his province’s earnest desire to deepen collaborative efforts through innovative partnerships between Sichuan Province and the Republic of Seychelles.

The substantive discussions centred on sustainable development initiatives facilitated through enhanced diplomatic ties, expanded economic collaboration, and enriched cultural exchange programs. Both parties explored diverse areas of mutual interest, including tourism development, trade facilitation and transportation infrastructure, educational partnerships, and sustainable fisheries management.

This diplomatic engagement represents a pivotal moment in China-Seychelles relations, demonstrating both nations’ commitment to fostering prosperity through strategic cooperation. The meeting reinforces the shared vision of building lasting partnerships that will benefit both peoples while contributing to regional stability and development. The discussions laid the groundwork for future collaborative initiatives that will harness the unique strengths of both Seychelles and Sichuan Province, creating opportunities for mutual growth and development across multiple sectors.

At the conclusion of the meeting, President Ramkalawan and H.E. Mr. Wang Xiaohui exchanged souvenir gifts as a sign of lasting friendship between their nations, symbolizing the enduring bonds and mutual respect that characterize the relationship between Seychelles and China.

Also Present for the meeting was the Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs Mrs. Vivienne Fock-Tave, Director General Bilateral Affairs, Ms. Lindy Ernesta, Third Secretary Bilateral Affairs Mrs. Louisa Lepathy.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Seychelles.

MIL OSI Africa –

July 9, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Committee on Health Welcomes Findings of Section 59 Investigation Panel

Source: APO

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The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Health, Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo, has welcomed the findings of the Section 59 investigation panel, which has uncovered systemic racial discrimination in the implementation of fraud, waste and abuse systems by medical schemes and administrators.

“The report paints a concerning picture of the disproportionate impact that medical schemes’ fraud, waste and abuse systems have had on black healthcare providers,” said Dr Dhlomo. “The statistical evidence presented by the panel’s expert, clearly demonstrates that black providers were significantly more likely to be found guilty of fraud, waste and abuse compared to their non-black counterparts.”

The panel’s analysis revealed that across the three major schemes investigated – Discovery, GEMS and Medscheme – black providers were between 1.5 to 3.5 times more likely to be identified as guilty of fraud, waste and abuse. In certain disciplines, such as physiotherapy, psychology and social work, the risk ratios for black providers were even higher, reaching up to 12 times more likely to be found guilty.

“These findings are deeply troubling and point to systemic flaws in the design and implementation of the fraud, waste and abuse systems,” continued Dr Dhlomo. “It is unacceptable that black healthcare providers have been subjected to such blatantly discriminatory treatment, which has undoubtedly had a devastating impact on their livelihoods and the communities they serve,” he said.

The committee commends the panel for its thorough and independent investigation, and welcomes the recommendations made to the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) to ensure the ongoing monitoring of the fraud, waste and abuse systems to prevent further discriminatory outcomes.

Dr Dhlomo stated that he is in discussions with the Minister of Health, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, about the report. The aim is to ensure that the Minister, the Department of Health, and the entities that the committee oversees and that have been implicated will be invited to provide a briefing to the committee on the findings, outcomes and recommendations presented in the report.

“We cannot allow such systemic discrimination to continue unchecked, as it undermines the transformation of the healthcare sector and the constitutional right to equality,” said Dr Dhlomo.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

MIL OSI Africa –

July 9, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: High-level Chinese delegation in historic visit to Parliament

Source: APO

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Uganda’s Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Thomas Tayebwa, has praised China’s growing partnership with Uganda, hailing it as historic and transformative.

Parliament on Tuesday 08, July 2025 welcomed the high-level Chinese delegation led by H.E. Jiang Zuojun, the Vice-Chairman of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference and Chairman of the Central Committee of the China Zhi Gong Party, in a move expected to bolster legislative cooperation and economic collaboration between the two countries.

While delivering his welcoming remarks, Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa flanked by several Members of Parliament commended President Xi Jinping and President Yoweri Museveni for strengthening ties between Kampala and Beijing.

“I want to appreciate H.E. Xi Jinping, the President of the People’s Republic of China, for the great friendship he has exhibited towards Uganda in particular and Africa at large. His good working relationship with H.E. President Museveni has ensured steady development of our country and our relations are at a level never seen before,” he said.

Tayebwa also acknowledged China’s support in several critical sectors, including infrastructure, health, and trade. He specifically noted China’s contribution of anti-malaria drugs worth 8 million Yuan, 50,000 COVID-19 testing kits, and 600,000 vaccine doses at the height of the pandemic.

“Indeed, China proved the old saying ‘a friend in need is a friend indeed’. This helped us to save our people,” Tayebwa noted.

In the trade sector, the Deputy Speaker highlighted Uganda’s growing exports to China but expressed concern over the trade imbalance, with Uganda exporting goods worth US$54 million in 2024 compared to US$1.1 billion in imports.

“I request for technical support so that we can meet the required standards in the short term,” he appealed.

On behalf of the Chinese delegation, H.E. Jiang Zuojun reaffirmed Beijing’s commitment to Africa and Uganda, describing current China-Africa relations as the strongest in history.

“Just as President Xi Jinping of China notes, the friendship of China and Africa transcends time and space and is passed down through generations. Now China-Africa friendship is at its best, elevating to a China-Africa community with a shared future for a new era,” Jiang said.

He noted that Uganda is a key partner on the continent and that the partnership was elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership following the 2023 Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation.

Speaking during the engagement, Hon. Nathan Nandala-Mafabi, MP for Budadiri County West, urged both sides to revisit previously abandoned trade partnerships, especially in Uganda’s top export coffee.

“There was a company called China Uganda, which was formed to deal in coffee, and I would imagine that company should be revived if it is dead, for purpose of allowing coffee, which is our leading export, to enter the China market,” Nandala-Mafabi said, citing barriers in accessing the Chinese market.

This meeting marks the first official visit by a delegation from the Central Committee of the China Zhi Gong Party to the Ugandan Parliament, and both sides pledged to deepen bilateral and legislative ties for mutual development.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Parliament of the Republic of Uganda.

MIL OSI Africa –

July 9, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Supporting flood-affected populations in Democratic Republic of Congo to recover

Source: APO

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Salima, a mother of four, was severely affected by the floods that hit Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, in April 2025. She had previously fled violence and insecurity in the country’s eastern provinces to seek refuge in Kinshasa “A few days after I arrived, the rains caught us by surprise. We lost everything. The entire neighbourhood was heavily flooded. People had to flee to seek refuge elsewhere.” 

Many of the flood-affected Kinshasa residents were provided with temporary shelter in Kinkole, a neighbourhood in Kinshasa where the government set up a site. More than 100 families were relocated to the shelters. With ambulances mobilized under the World Health Organization’s (WHO) SURGE system – a mechanism project for public health emergency preparedness and response – many patients, including pregnant women, were transferred promptly to referral health facilities, ensuring timely and appropriate care.

“Less than 24 hours after the disaster, we were on the ground for a rapid assessment of the situation,” said Dr Guy Kalambayi, Emergency Preparedness and Response Officer with WHO in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. “We helped set up a care unit with the minimum resources needed to relieve the population. Our responsiveness was greatly appreciated by the communities, both in terms of addressing their immediate needs and safeguarding their health.”

WHO supported the health authorities to develop public health situation analysis, provide health services to those affected, assess the health needs and provide safe drinking water to the displaced and the households hosting them.

By June 2025, more than 5000 people were still living at the Kinkole site, out of the over 10 000 people affected by the floods in the sprawling capital city and its surroundings.

Over than two months after the devastating floods that affected at least five major cities in the country, the authorities, supported by WHO and partners, continue to assist those affected to recover from the disaster.

In total, about 1.5 million people were affected across the country by the floods, which also damaged more than 200 schools, over 100 health centres, as well as houses and markets. WHO provided essential medical supplies, including emergency medical equipment, to cover the health needs of 10 000 people for three months. WHO also supplied four tents for emergency shelter.

“With access to health services disrupted by the disaster, it is critically important to care for vulnerable groups such as pregnant women, children, the elderly and persons with disabilities or chronic conditions who require regular care,” says Dr Kalmbayi.

The authorities launched emergency efforts to repair damaged infrastructure and mobilize teams to coordinate humanitarian assistance. In Kinkole and elsewhere, the government and its partners are taking measures to ensure appropriate and dignified living conditions, providing continuity of health services and care, including vaccination and psychosocial support.

“We needed safe shelter, water and food. That’s what we received, not to mention the care we received with free medicines,” says Albertine, a medical student in Kinshasa affected by the disaster.

For Dr Emilia Sana, Flood Incident Manager at the Ministry of Public Health, Hygiene and Social Welfare, the coordinated response to the floods “marks a turning point towards a more effective multisectoral framework for our efforts, bringing key ministries together at the highest level.”

WHO and partners continue to support the government strengthen outbreak prevention measures, including securing the supply of safe drinking water, sanitation and reinforcing of community-based disease surveillance systems.

“We may have lost all our material possessions, but we are still alive and in good health. That’s what matters,” says Salima.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo remains vulnerable to climate-linked disasters. Off-season rains in June, for instance, claimed at least 29 lives in three districts of Kinshasa, with more than 500 households affected.

“One of the key takeaways from this emergency, both in Kinshasa and other provinces, is that there is power in collaboration, particularly in managing potentially epidemic diseases and chronic conditions, thereby ensuring continuity of care. WHO’s support through providing medicines to the affected communities has been invaluable,” says Dr Sana of the Ministry of Public Health, Hygiene and Social Welfare.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Health Organization (WHO) – Democratic Republic of Congo.

MIL OSI Africa –

July 9, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: South Sudan’s longest cholera outbreak enters critical stage

Source: APO

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The outbreak – which started in September 2024 and was confirmed a month later – comes amidst a protracted humanitarian crisis exacerbated by rising intercommunal violence, climate shocks such as flooding and catastrophic hunger.

“Now, more than ever, collective action is needed to reduce tensions, resolve political differences and make tangible progress in implementing peace,” said Anita Kiki Gbeho, UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in South Sudan.

Alarming escalation

Since the cholera outbreak was declared in October 2024, UN agencies and partners have documented over 80,000 cholera cases and 1,400 deaths.

This is in addition to regional outbreaks of mpox, hepatitis and measles among other communicable diseases.

South Sudanese authorities, civil society and UN agencies held an inter-ministerial meeting on Monday to discuss what they called an “alarming escalation” in the spread of the outbreak.

“This is not merely a public health crisis, but a multi-sectoral emergency exacerbated by flooding, displacement, and limited access to basic services,” the ministers wrote in a communiqué released.

The group resolved to facilitate unimpeded humanitarian access to areas which already have outbreaks and to other areas at risk for outbreaks. The Government of South Sudan will coordinate these efforts.

Partners will also work to preposition materials, improve water and sanitation infrastructure and coordinate proactive and reactive vaccination campaigns.

Time is running out

With the peak of the rainy season on the horizon, the next eight weeks are critical in containing and mitigating the outbreak before severe flooding begins.

“Time is of the essence to prevent a further escalation of the outbreak,” the officials wrote.

Floods more than double the frequency of cholera outbreaks by imperiling access to clean water and impeding humanitarian access to affected areas. And with rising global temperatures making floods more severe, millions of South Sudanese who were not previously in regions of concern may now be at risk for cholera outbreaks.

A preventable disease

Cholera is an acute diarrhoeal infection caused by consuming contaminated water or food. Although highly communicable, it is preventable through proper hygiene, regular handwashing, safe food preparation and storage, improved sanitation infrastructure, and vaccination.

Symptoms typically include watery diarrhoea. Most cases are mild to moderate and can be treated effectively with oral rehydration salts (ORS) mixed with clean, boiled water.

However, in severe cases, cholera can be fatal—sometimes within hours—if not treated promptly.

Infected individuals can also transmit the disease through their faeces for up to ten days, even if they show no symptoms.

Need for additional funds

In South Sudan, the already inadequate water and sanitation infrastructure and overstretched public health system has further deteriorated as a result of displacement and conflict. This has ripened the conditions for the spread of cholera.

The UN and its partners are working quickly to preposition emergency supplies, especially in these previously low-risk areas, but they are hampered by funding shortfalls. Agencies estimate that they will need $1.69 billion – of which they have only received $368 million – to address the many intersecting humanitarian needs in the country.

Nevertheless, the group of ministers insisted that this outbreak is and must remain a priority for all involved.

“Cholera response and flood preparedness must be treated as urgent national priorities,” they said in the communiqué.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of UN News.

MIL OSI Africa –

July 9, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Qingdao Institute of Technology hosts Chinese-Russian youth cultural event

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 9 (Xinhua) — The Qingdao Institute of Technology recently held a cultural forum titled “Unity in the Hot Summer: China-Russia Cultural Dialogue Day.” The event brought together Chinese and Russian students from the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Institute of Trade and Economics and Baikal National University (Russia).

As reported on the official website of the institute, the program included five interactive blocks for in-depth understanding of cultures. Students immersed themselves in traditional Chinese holidays: they studied symbols of prosperity – paired New Year inscriptions, scarlet lanterns and red envelopes, tasted traditional Chinese products – yuanxiao, zongzi and mooncakes, discovering the gastronomic culture of China.

At the calligraphy exhibition, guests appreciated the charm of hieroglyphs written in the free style of cursive writing “caoshu”, and during the master class they enjoyed mastering the technique of writing with a brush, comprehending the magic of Chinese writing.

There was also a master class on making dumplings in the institute canteen.

The forum has become a bright practice for developing intercultural communications and expanding the global outlook of students. It is not only a bright cultural presentation, but also a deep “dialogue of hearts” that has strengthened the friendship between the youth of China and Russia. -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 –

July 9, 2025

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