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Category: DJF

  • MIL-OSI Russia: First Next-Generation Ivolga 4.0 Train Launched on the Yaroslavl Line of the Moscow Railway.

    Russian Railways (RZD) and Central PPK have announced the launch of the first train of the latest Ivolga 4.0 model on the Yaroslavl direction of the Moscow Railway. This milestone marks another step in the large-scale modernization program for suburban transport in the Moscow region.

    A Technological Breakthrough for Passengers.

    The new Ivolga 4.0 trains represent a significant leap forward in the development of domestic railway transport.

    Key advantages of the new model include:

    – Increased capacity: Wider aisles and doorways, and more doors

    – Faster boarding and disembarking thanks to improved car configuration

    – 20% more passenger seats compared to previous models

    – 20% higher route speed, reducing travel time

    Comprehensive Modernization of the Line.

    The launch of Ivolga 4.0 is a logical continuation of the systematic development of the Yaroslavl line. In recent years, the following major infrastructure upgrades have taken place:

    – Additional main tracks were constructed through joint efforts of Moscow Metro and Russian Railways

    – Train intervals were reduced by one third

    – A major transport hub was created at Rostokino, with a transfer to the Moscow Central Circle (MCC)

    Ambitious Plans Through 2030.

    By 2030, 92 new Ivolga trains are planned to be launched on the Yaroslavl line, fully renewing the suburban train fleet. This program will make a significant contribution to the development of Russian engineering.

    Import Substitution and Support for Domestic Industry.

    Of special importance is the high degree of production localization: the Ivolga trains are 97% made from domestically produced components, manufactured at 600 enterprises across the country. Moscow accounts for 75% of orders for new metro and suburban train cars, driving growth in the Russian transport industry.

    The launch of Ivolga 4.0 on the Yaroslavl line opens a new chapter in the history of suburban transit, providing passengers with comfort, speed, and reliability on modern domestic rolling stock.

    On the instructions of Moscow Mayor Sergey Sobyanin, together with colleagues from Russian Railways (RZD), Central PPK, and Transmashholding, we are implementing a program to improve suburban transport. The rolling stock has already been fully renewed on D1, D2, and D3, and we are completing this process on D4. The Ivolga 4.0 train is comfortable, spacious, and fast. By 2030, we will completely renew the fleet on the Yaroslavl line, with plans to launch 92 trains, —  said Maksim Liksutov.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Call for Papers: Conference on Transport of Nuclear and Radioactive Material

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA

    Interested contributors have until 15 September 2025 to submit synopses for the IAEA’s International Conference on the Safe and Secure Transport of Nuclear and Radioactive Material.

    The IAEA estimates that 20 million shipments of radioactive material are transported every year. These materials are shipped nationally and internationally by road, rail, sea, air and inland waterways for applications such as medicine and health, agriculture, nuclear power generation and advanced scientific research. 

    The conference, to be hosted in Vienna, Austria from 23 to 27 March 2026, will cover the legislative and regulatory framework for the transport of nuclear and other radioactive material, safety and security by design; safety and security during transport operations. It builds on previous events held in 2011 and 2021.

    “For decades, IAEA safety standards have been the backbone for the safe transport of radioactive material. With rapid technological advances in the nuclear and transport sectors, the global landscape is evolving — and fast. This conference aims to drive innovation, share experience and help strengthen the global standards,” said Shazia Fayyaz, one of the scientific secretaries and Head of the IAEA Transport Safety Unit in the Division of Radiation, Transport and Waste Safety.

    “During transport, nuclear and radioactive material may be vulnerable to a number of modal specific risks and threats,” said Robert Officer, the other scientific secretary of the conference and Head of the IAEA Transport Security Unit in the Division of Nuclear Security. “The conference will further raise awareness through sharing experiences on strengthening safety and security capabilities, including on such topics as legal and policy frameworks, and technological and commercial trends for the protection of end-to-end transport.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Guinea-Bissau: Selected Issues

    Source: International Monetary Fund

    Preview Citation

    Format: Chicago

    Export Citation

    • ProCite
    • RefWorks
    • Reference Manager

    • BibTex
    • Zotero

    Summary

    2025 Selected Issues

    Subject: Agricultural commodities, Agroindustries, Commodities, Economic sectors, Education, Expenditure, Exports, Fiscal policy, Health, Imports, International trade, Revenue administration, Revenue mobilization

    Keywords: Agricultural commodities, Agroindustries, Exports, Imports, Revenue mobilization

    Publication Details

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Call for Papers: Conference on Transport of Nuclear and Radioactive Material

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) –

    Interested contributors have until 15 September 2025 to submit synopses for the IAEA’s International Conference on the Safe and Secure Transport of Nuclear and Radioactive Material.

    The IAEA estimates that 20 million shipments of radioactive material are transported every year. These materials are shipped nationally and internationally by road, rail, sea, air and inland waterways for applications such as medicine and health, agriculture, nuclear power generation and advanced scientific research. 

    The conference, to be hosted in Vienna, Austria from 23 to 27 March 2026, will cover the legislative and regulatory framework for the transport of nuclear and other radioactive material, safety and security by design; safety and security during transport operations. It builds on previous events held in 2011 and 2021.

    “For decades, IAEA safety standards have been the backbone for the safe transport of radioactive material. With rapid technological advances in the nuclear and transport sectors, the global landscape is evolving — and fast. This conference aims to drive innovation, share experience and help strengthen the global standards,” said Shazia Fayyaz, one of the scientific secretaries and Head of the IAEA Transport Safety Unit in the Division of Radiation, Transport and Waste Safety.

    “During transport, nuclear and radioactive material may be vulnerable to a number of modal specific risks and threats,” said Robert Officer, the other scientific secretary of the conference and Head of the IAEA Transport Security Unit in the Division of Nuclear Security. “The conference will further raise awareness through sharing experiences on strengthening safety and security capabilities, including on such topics as legal and policy frameworks, and technological and commercial trends for the protection of end-to-end transport.”

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) and Interstellar unveil African Currency Marketplace eliminating $5 Billion trade bottleneck

    Source: APO – Report:

    Building on the successful rollout of its groundbreaking continental payment infrastructure, the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS), in strategic collaboration with Interstellar, a leading African deep-tech company, have announced the launch of the PAPSS African Currency Marketplace (PACM). The launch was announced on the sidelines of the 2025 Afreximbank (www.Afreximbank.com) Annual Meeting (AAM2025) held in Abuja from June 25 – 28.

    This next-generation Financial Market Infrastructure (FMI) represents a bold evolution of the PAPSS mission, addressing Africa’s longstanding challenge of currency inconvertibility and enabling seamless, sovereign currency exchange for intra-African trade.

    For decades, Africa’s economic momentum has been hindered by a fragmented financial landscape. The continent’s 41 currencies, diverse regulatory environments, and lack of convertibility have created significant friction. To trade with neighbouring countries, African businesses have often relied on external (hard) foreign currencies for foreign exchange, creating what experts call the “hard and costly currency bottleneck.” This workaround drains an estimated $5 billion annually in fees, delays, and opportunity costs, undermining the competitiveness of African enterprises and slowing progress toward realising the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

    “PAPSS African Currency Marketplace is fully transparent, order book-driven, and operates with trusted counterparties, strictly adhering to local regulatory frameworks and global best practices,” affirmed Mike Ogbalu III, CEO of PAPSS. “By creating a single, continent-wide liquidity pool, PACM serves as a powerful liquidity engine for intra-African commerce.” This launch marks a major strategic evolution in the PAPSS journey. According to Mr Ogbalu, since its official launch in 2022, PAPSS has enabled real-time cross-border payments across 17 countries, connecting 14 national switches and over 150 commercial banks. Initially piloted in the West African Monetary Zone (WAMZ), PAPSS rapidly expanded to become the core settlement layer of the AfCFTA’s financial infrastructure. But while payment rails were laid, a deeper issue remained.

    “We soon realised that solving for payments alone was not enough,” explained Mike Ogbalu. “Corporations, airlines, reinsurance firms, and multinationals operating across Africa still faced a persistent hurdle: trapped capital, arising from limited currency convertibility and overreliance on hard currencies.” For example, he explained, over $2 billion is currently ‘trapped’ in African countries where airlines operate, unable to repatriate their funds due to exchange restrictions or depreciation of local currencies. “The PAPSS African Currency Marketplace is the answer to that problem — an extension of our commitment to building sovereign, frictionless financial infrastructure for Africa.” He added.

    The PAPSS African Currency Marketplace jointly developed by PAPSS and Interstellar, enables the direct exchange of African currencies without passing through hard currencies. As a transparent, continent-wide, peer-to-peer platform, it allows businesses to trade directly in local currencies in near real-time while remaining compliant with national regulations. It unlocks liquidity, releases trapped capital, eliminates excessive foreign exchange costs, and supports the continent’s long-term goal of financial sovereignty. In partnership with PAPSS, the PAPSS African Currency Marketplace is built on Interstellar’s enterprise-grade, blockchain-agnostic infrastructure, which enables the use of permissioned blockchain technology while ensuring institutional grade-security, scalability, and near instant settlement.

    “This is not just about technology, it is about fulfilling a continental vision,” said Ernest Mbenkum, Founder and CEO of Interstellar during a fireside chat at the launch. “PAPSS African Currency Marketplace was built from the ground up to serve Africa’s specific needs. PAPSS and Interstellar are not just collaborators, we are co-architects of a new financial future, aligned in purpose and committed to transformation.”

    Ernest Mbenkum further emphasised, “African currencies deserve a better place in the world. With this marketplace, your local currency is no longer just a medium of exchange, it becomes a vehicle of opportunity.” He also highlighted that this is only the beginning of Interstellar’s vision, stating, “We’re building a future where Africa no longer needs to wait for foreign rails to move value. Our infrastructure will power Africa’s financial renaissance.”

    Haytham El Maayergi, Executive Vice President of Afreximbank, noted: “The PAPSS African Currency Marketplace gives us the power to transform trade dramatically, bringing us to trade with each other with a major benefit that we can now accept each other’s currency.”

    The impact is already being felt. During its pilot phase, more than 80 African corporates transacted across 12 currency pairs, with all transactions settled in local currencies. For example, a company like Kenya Airways, which earns Nigerian Naira from ticket sales, can now use PACM to directly exchange Naira for Kenyan Shillings—without converting through a third currency. Early adopters include ZEP-RE (PTA Reinsurance Company) and Access View Africa, which called the platform “a dream come true.”

    PAPSS African Currency Marketplace liberates trapped capital, eliminates excessive FX costs, and transforms multi-week settlement delays into near real-time execution. PAPSS CEO Mr. Ogbalu noted that following positive experiences of some early adopters, PAPSS had received interest from institutions outside Africa seeking to join the ecosystem. “This demand proves the value of what we’ve built,” he said.

    With over 150 banks already connected through PAPSS and growing demand across the continent, PAPSS African Currency Marketplace stands as a game-changing financial tool for a more unified, sovereign, and efficient Africa.

    Concluding his opening keynote, Mr. Haytham El Maayergi, Executive Vice President – Global Trade Bank at Afreximbank reiterated: “Africa will not rise by ideas. Africa will rise by actions. “

    The PAPSS African Currency Marketplace is now open to eligible corporations, financial institutions, and other market participants across the continent.

    – on behalf of Afreximbank.

    Media Contact:
    Papa Thiongane 
    communications@papss.com

    Website:
    marketplace@papss.com

    About PAPSS:
    The Pan-African Payment and Settlement System – PAPSS is a centralised Financial Market Infrastructure that enables the efficient flow of money securely across African borders, minimising risk and contributing to financial integration across the regions. PAPSS collaborates with African central banks to offer payment and settlement solutions that commercial banks and licensed payment service providers (switches, fintechs, aggregators, etc.) across the continent can connect to, making these services accessible to the public. To date, PAPSS has developed and launched 3 payment solutions: PAPSS Instant Payment System (IPS), PAPSS African Currency Marketplace (PACM), and the PAPSSCARD.

    Afreximbank and the African Union (“AU”) first announced PAPSS at the Twelfth Extraordinary Summit of the African Union held on July 7, 2019, in Niamey, Niger Republic, therefore adopting PAPSS as a key instrument for the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA). Further, in its thirteenth (13th) extraordinary session, held on December 5, 2020, the assembly of the African Union directed Afreximbank and the AfCFTA secretariat to finalise, among others, work on the Pan-African Payments and Settlements System (PAPSS). The 35th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of the AU further directed the AfCFTA and Afreximbank to deploy the system to cover the entire continent. PAPSS was officially launched in Accra, Ghana, on January 13, 2022, thus making it available for use by the public.

    About Interstellar:
    Interstellar Inc. is Africa’s leading enterprise blockchain infrastructure company —enabling secure cross-border transactions, stablecoin integration, and next-generation financial solutions across the continent. Its core platform, STARGATE, is a critical blockchain-agnostic, enterprise-grade infrastructure that empowers major institutions to build and scale secure, high-performance financial applications, including tokenization platforms and payments solutions.

    Media files

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    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Driving Angolan Hydrocarbon Production: bp Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Murray Auchincloss Joins Angola Oil & Gas (AOG) 2025

    Source: APO – Report:

    Murray Auchincloss, CEO of global energy company bp, has joined the Angola Oil & Gas (AOG) conference as a keynote speaker. His participation comes as bp – through its joint venture Azule Energy – advances a series of large-scale oil and gas developments in Angola, covering strategic investments from upstream exploration to oil production to non-associated gas development. Auchincloss’ participation at the event reflects bp’s broader commitment to Angola and is expected to unlock new opportunities for collaboration across the sector.

    With a long history in Angola, bp has played an instrumental role in unlocking significant value from the country’s oil and gas resources. Initial forays by the energy major in the 1990s included the acquisition of four deepwater blocks, with a further five deep and ultra-deepwater blocks across the Kwanza and Benguela basins acquired in 2011. These investments marked the start of a decades-long commitment to Angola, with the energy major contributing significantly to the country’s oil production. Many of these blocks continue to account for a significant share of the country’s production portfolio, including Block 18 and 31 in the Lower Congo basin and Blocks 19 and 24 in the Kwanza and Benguela basin.

    Following a merger of bp’s Angolan assets in 2022 with those of energy major Eni, the companies further strengthened their operational stronghold in Angola. The merger led to the establishment of the largest independent equity producer of oil and gas in the country and one that continues to play a central role in Angola’s oil and gas market. The company’s asset portfolio comprises 18 licenses – of which 11 are operated by Azule Energy and one is situated in Namibia. Azule energy also has a stake in the country’s sole LNG facility: Angola LNG. With a target to increase oil production to 250,000 barrels per day – up from the current 210,000 bpd – while advancing non-associated gas development, Azule Energy is accelerating the development of several impactful projects.

    The company is preparing to start operations at the Agogo FPSO vessel in the second half of 2025. The vessel – arriving in Angolan waters in May 2025 – will be situated at the Agogo Integrated West Hub Development, joining the operational Ngoma FPSO to harness resources from Block 15/06. The vessel will increase the block’s production capacity by 120,000 bpd and features a combined cycle power generation unit, advanced electrification and digital automation, a seawater-driven turbine generators and a vapor recovery unit to eliminate flaring. The vessel will add to Azule Energy’s existing portfolio of operational FPSOs in Angola, with four deepwater vessels. currently in production.

    Beyond Agogo, Azule Energy is developing Angola’s first non-associated gas projects through its operatorship of the New Gas Consortium. The project will harness gas resources at the Quiluma & Maboqueiro shallow water fields, thereby enhancing feedstock for the Angola LNG facility. As of February 2025, the project partners – namely, Cabinda Gulf Oil Company, Sonangol P&P and Totalenergies – completed the offshore platforms for the project. Production is expected to start in late-2025 or early-2026, six-months ahead of schedule.

    These developments coincide with a drive to enhance clean energy development in Angola, with Azule Energy spearheading projects in biorefining and solar. The company is developing the Caraculo solar photovoltaic plant through Solenova – a joint venture with Sonangol – which will be located in the province of Namibe. The project targets a total capacity of 50 MW, with the first 25 MW phase coming online in 2023. In 2024, Azule Energy and Sonangol signed an agreement to enhance decarbonization at the operational Luanda Refinery – the country’s sole operating refining facility. The agreement will see the partners conduct a feasibility study for the development of a biorefinery at the facility, aiming to advance low-carbon energy solutions in Angola. These projects reflect the commitment by bp to advance Angolan energy production and Auchincloss’ participation at the country’s premier industry event is expected to generate greater understanding of the company’s portfolio, ongoing projects and future investment plans.

    – on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

    Media files

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    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Copy of President Ursula von der Leyen participates in the EP plenary debate

    Source: European Commission (video statements)

    On 7 July 2025, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen participates in the European Parliament Plenary Debate in Strasbourg, France.

    Follow live events and access media content here:
    https://audiovisual.ec.europa.eu/en/

    Stay updated — follow us on X: https://x.com/EC_AVService

    Follow us on:
    -X: https://twitter.com/EU_Commission
    -Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/europeancommission/
    -Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EuropeanCommission
    -LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/european-commission/
    -Medium: https://medium.com/@EuropeanCommission

    Check our website: http://ec.europa.eu/

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JziQ6qcARy0

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Copy of President Ursula von der Leyen participates in the EP plenary debate

    Source: European Commission (video statements)

    On 7 July 2025, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen participates in the European Parliament Plenary Debate in Strasbourg, France.

    Follow live events and access media content here:
    https://audiovisual.ec.europa.eu/en/

    Stay updated — follow us on X: https://x.com/EC_AVService

    Follow us on:
    -X: https://twitter.com/EU_Commission
    -Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/europeancommission/
    -Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EuropeanCommission
    -LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/european-commission/
    -Medium: https://medium.com/@EuropeanCommission

    Check our website: http://ec.europa.eu/

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JziQ6qcARy0

    MIL OSI Video –

  • We will define BRICS in new form under India’s chairmanship: PM Modi in Brazil

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said India would redefine the BRICS grouping under its upcoming chairmanship.

    Addressing the BRICS Summit in Brazil, PM Modi said, “Under India’s BRICS Chairmanship, we will define BRICS in a new form. BRICS would mean ‘Building Resilience and Innovation for Cooperation and Sustainability.’”

    PM Modi affirmed that India would carry forward the spirit of people-centric progress during its leadership of the bloc comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.

    “In the coming year, under India’s BRICS Chairmanship, we will continue close cooperation on all subjects,” the PM said.

    The Prime Minister underlined how India’s presidency of the G20 elevated the concerns of the developing world and promised a similar approach for BRICS.

    “Just as during our G-20 Presidency, we ensured inclusivity and prioritised issues of the Global South in the agenda,” he said. “In the same way, during our BRICS Chairmanship, we will take this forum forward with a people-centric approach and the spirit of ‘Humanity First.’”

    This message of unity and collaboration was reflected earlier in the day, as Prime Minister Modi, along with other BRICS leaders, partners, and outreach invitees, gathered for the traditional family photo at the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro on Monday morning (local time).

    The summit brought together leaders and representatives from BRICS nations and partner countries to discuss cooperation and strategic partnerships, marking a moment of unity and collaboration among the countries the grouping represents.

    Hosted by Brazil from July 7 to July 9, the summit saw leaders from Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, and new members Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the UAE, and Indonesia come together for the event. Prime Minister Modi participated in the 17th BRICS Summit held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on July 6-7, 2025, the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) said in a statement.

    During the summit, the leaders held productive discussions on various issues on the BRICS agenda, including the reform of global governance, enhancing the voice of the Global South, peace and security, strengthening multilateralism, development issues, and Artificial Intelligence.

    PM Modi thanked the President of Brazil for his warm hospitality and the successful organisation of the summit.

    (ANI)

  • We will define BRICS in new form under India’s chairmanship: PM Modi in Brazil

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said India would redefine the BRICS grouping under its upcoming chairmanship.

    Addressing the BRICS Summit in Brazil, PM Modi said, “Under India’s BRICS Chairmanship, we will define BRICS in a new form. BRICS would mean ‘Building Resilience and Innovation for Cooperation and Sustainability.’”

    PM Modi affirmed that India would carry forward the spirit of people-centric progress during its leadership of the bloc comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.

    “In the coming year, under India’s BRICS Chairmanship, we will continue close cooperation on all subjects,” the PM said.

    The Prime Minister underlined how India’s presidency of the G20 elevated the concerns of the developing world and promised a similar approach for BRICS.

    “Just as during our G-20 Presidency, we ensured inclusivity and prioritised issues of the Global South in the agenda,” he said. “In the same way, during our BRICS Chairmanship, we will take this forum forward with a people-centric approach and the spirit of ‘Humanity First.’”

    This message of unity and collaboration was reflected earlier in the day, as Prime Minister Modi, along with other BRICS leaders, partners, and outreach invitees, gathered for the traditional family photo at the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro on Monday morning (local time).

    The summit brought together leaders and representatives from BRICS nations and partner countries to discuss cooperation and strategic partnerships, marking a moment of unity and collaboration among the countries the grouping represents.

    Hosted by Brazil from July 7 to July 9, the summit saw leaders from Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, and new members Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the UAE, and Indonesia come together for the event. Prime Minister Modi participated in the 17th BRICS Summit held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on July 6-7, 2025, the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) said in a statement.

    During the summit, the leaders held productive discussions on various issues on the BRICS agenda, including the reform of global governance, enhancing the voice of the Global South, peace and security, strengthening multilateralism, development issues, and Artificial Intelligence.

    PM Modi thanked the President of Brazil for his warm hospitality and the successful organisation of the summit.

    (ANI)

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Westminster Abbey bells chime at Lord Mayor of Westminster’s Civic Service | Westminster City Council

    Source: City of Westminster

    Westminster Abbey opened its doors to residents, community groups, friends and family of the Lord Mayor for one of the most important events in the City of Westminster’s calendar—the Civic Service. This officially marks the appointment of the Lord Mayor and Deputy High Steward, Cllr Paul Dimoldenberg.

    The service began with morning prayers, or matins sung by the Choir of Westminster Abbey. The Lord Mayor read from the Book of Deuteronomy, while Westminster City Council Leader, Councillor Adam Hug, delivered a reading from the New Testament, reflecting on the importance of community. The sermon was given by The Reverend David Stanton, Sub-Dean and Canon Treasurer.

    Following the service, the Abbey’s bells rang out as councillors, cadets from the RAF and Army, emergency service representatives, and guests joined the Lord Mayor for a reception in the College Garden.

    In 1965 the new City of Westminster, incorporated the Boroughs of Paddington and St Marylebone by Royal Charter. The following year, the Queen granted the First Citizen the style and dignity of Lord Mayor. To recognise these links between Westminster Abbey and the City Council, the Dean and Chapter welcomes annually the new Lord Mayor of Westminster, the Deputy High Steward, in State to the Civic Service. However, an annual Civic Service dates back to 1935 where the honorary role of Deputy High Steward is given to the Lord Mayor of Westminster by the Dean of Westminster and Chapter. 

    Speaking after the service, The Lord Mayor of Westminster, Cllr Paul Dimoldenberg, said:

    “On such a historic day, it was a privilege to share this moment with family, friends, and all those who have made my career as a councillor so memorable.”

    “Despite being is one of my lesser-known responsibilities, it’s importance is not lost on me, and it is a great honour and a privilege to hold the position of Deputy High Steward of Westminster. 

    “This city has been my home for over 50 years but events like this serve as a reminder of how special Westminster truly is.”

    For those who were unable to attend, the service is available on Westminster Abbey’s website.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Small grants, big splash: new Blue Sparks programme launched to connect Plymouth with the sea

    Source: City of Plymouth

    Community groups across Plymouth are being invited to bring their ideas to life with the launch of the Blue Sparks Community Grants Programme, helping people connect with, enjoy and protect Plymouth Sound. 

    The new scheme, launched by Plymouth Sound National Marine Park and supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, will run over the next three years, supporting grassroots organisations to develop and deliver their ideas through grants of up to £2,500, and in special cases up to £5,000. These grants are designed to help people access, explore, and better understand the marine park and its blue spaces. 

    But what exactly are blue spaces? They’re our rivers, seas, lakes and coastal waters, places that support nature, connect us with Plymouth’s rich maritime heritage, and are vital for our mental and physical wellbeing. Plymouth Sound sits at the heart of these blue spaces, and the Blue Sparks programme aims to help even more people experience, enjoy, and learn about them. 

    Whether it’s creating art to showcase Plymouth’s heritage assets or improving our local blue spaces, the grants will fund grassroots projects that support Plymouth Sound National Marine Park’s ambition to make Britain’s Ocean City more accessible and enjoyable for all. 

    Councillor Tudor Evans OBE, Leader of Plymouth City Council, said:  “Plymouth is Britain’s Ocean City, and our relationship with the sea shapes who we are. The Blue Sparks grants are a fantastic way for local groups to get involved with Plymouth Sound National Marine Park, bringing community-led projects to life that help people enjoy, learn about and protect the waters on our doorstep. Whether it’s getting young people involved in ocean activities or celebrating our maritime heritage, this programme will help more people connect with the Sound in new ways.” 

    Stuart McLeod, Director England – London & South at The National Lottery Heritage Fund said:  “Investing in heritage means investing in the people and communities it belongs to. That’s why we’re proud to support the Blue Sparks Community Grants Programme as part of our continued partnership with Plymouth Sount National Marine Park. Thanks to National Lottery players, this initiative will empower local people to celebrate, protect, and connect with the incredible marine and natural heritage on their doorstep. We’re excited to see the creative and meaningful ways Plymothians will bring Britain’s Ocean City to life.” 

    Plymouth Sound National Marine Park: Britain’s First 

    Plymouth Sound is home to the UK’s first National Marine Park, celebrating and protecting the vibrant waters, wildlife and heritage of our local seas while ensuring they can be enjoyed by everyone. From the bustling waterfront and historic naval docks to thriving seagrass meadows and a rich maritime history, the National Marine Park is about making Plymouth’s blue spaces accessible to all, supporting health and wellbeing, driving the local economy and tackling the climate emergency. 

    Covering over 8,600 hectares of ocean, estuaries and coastline, the National Marine Park is home to thousands of marine species and plays a vital role in Plymouth’s identity and future. Through community projects, learning opportunities and initiatives like Blue Sparks, the National Marine Park is working to ensure Plymouth’s marine environment is protected and celebrated for generations to come. 

    The launch of Blue Sparks is part of the wider five-year Heritage Horizon Award project, supporting the development of the UK’s first National Marine Park with funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund. The National Lottery Heritage Fund launched The Heritage Horizon Awards in 2019 to support ambitious, innovative and transformational projects that revolutionise UK heritage. These awards help transform lives and local economies, place the UK at the forefront of major environmental and heritage projects, and show confidence in the heritage sector to rebuild and thrive. As part of this, Plymouth Sound National Marine Park received £11.6 million to help revolutionise the way Plymouth connects with its marine heritage. 

    The Blue Sparks programme is now open for applications. 

    For more information on how to apply, visit: plymouthsoundnationalmarinepark.com/blue-sparks-programme 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council calls for clarity on equality guidance

    Source: City of Plymouth

    Plymouth City Council is calling for urgent clarity on how public bodies should interpret and apply recent changes to equality law, following a Supreme Court decision that redefined how “sex” is understood in the Equality Act.

    The ruling has raised serious questions about who can access single-sex spaces like toilets, changing rooms, and hostels—and how councils are expected to apply the law in practice.

    At Full Council on 2 June, the Council passed a motion raising concerns about the impact of the ruling on access to public facilities and the safety of women, trans, non-binary and intersex people.

    That motion agreed that the Council would respond to The Equality and Human Rights Commission’s (EHRC)s consultation on its Code of Practice, write to the Minister for Women and Equalities, and review its own services once final guidance is published.

    The Council has now submitted its consultation response and the Leader of the Council, Councillor Tudor Evans has written to the Minister, expressing concern that the ruling has created confusion over which public facilities people are legally allowed to use.

    But this issue goes far beyond toilets. The ruling has implications for how councils and other public bodies deliver a wide range of services—from changing rooms and hostels to healthcare, education, and communal accommodation. It could also affect how the Council meets its responsibilities under the Public Sector Equality Duty.

    The Council is concerned that the ruling and guidance risks creating unnecessary anxiety and division and could impact the delivery of services that residents rely on.

    Councillor Chris Penberthy, Cabinet Member for Communities, for Plymouth City Council, said: “This ruling has left too many people feeling uncertain and unsafe. We’re proud to be a city that includes everyone, and we need national guidance that reflects that.

    “The Equality Act was once world-leading, but it needs to be updated to meet the realities of today. We’re asking the Government to act now to protect people’s rights and help councils like ours deliver services fairly and safely.”

    In the letter, the Council calls on the Minister to:

    • Consider modernising the Equality Act 2010, including reviewing the definition of sex;
    • Use the forthcoming Equality (Race and Disability) Bill as an opportunity to announce a full review;
    • Place a moratorium on the application of the Supreme Court ruling while legal appeals are ongoing.

    The Council will continue to assess the wider impact of the ruling and remains committed to delivering services that are inclusive, safe, and fully aligned with the law once final guidance is in place.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: First ARU Peterborough undergrads set to graduate

    Source: Anglia Ruskin University

    Peterborough’s historic cathedral is the venue for ARU Peterborough’s graduation ceremony on 11 July

    The first cohort of ARU Peterborough students to join the city’s new university in 2022 are preparing to celebrate their graduation this week, with many having already secured skilled jobs in the local area.

    Peterborough Cathedral will host this year’s graduation ceremony for ARU Peterborough students at 2pm on Friday, 11 July.

    Students who have studied undergraduate degrees, degree apprenticeships, postgraduate courses and professional development qualifications will cross the cathedral stage to mark the formal completion of their studies.

    “Congratulations to all our graduates on their success. This graduation ceremony marks a historic milestone for ARU Peterborough. It is a celebration of the achievements of our first cohort of students and reflects our mission to create opportunities, drive social mobility, and deliver high level skills tailored to local and national needs.

    “This graduation also signals the beginning of an exciting new chapter for our university and community, as we expand our academic offer with a range of new courses available to start this September.”

    Principal of ARU Peterborough, Professor Ross Renton

    The first graduation is a landmark moment for the city, which until the opening of ARU Peterborough, was known as a higher education “cold spot”. The university has provided opportunities for many students to develop their skills – opportunities they might not have had otherwise.

    James Johnson, 26, is to start work after graduation at local firm ParkAir as an Embedded Software Engineer. The Applied Computer Science graduate from Yaxley said: “It’s unlikely I would’ve attended university if it wasn’t for ARU Peterborough. I was 24 when I enrolled and going further afield wasn’t an option.

    “Finding a local job straight after graduation means a lot. At the start, I was a little uncertain if university was right for me. This proves going to ARU Peterborough was the right thing to do.”

    Faaizah Hussain, who lives in Peterborough and has studied for a BSc (Hons) degree in Accounting and Finance at ARU Peterborough, will give the Vote of Thanks speech at the graduation ceremony on 11 July.

    Faaizah, who has now enrolled on a Postgraduate Certificate in Education to become a teacher, said: “I had already secured an apprenticeship and hadn’t planned on going to university until I found out about ARU Peterborough. I wasn’t keen on moving away or commuting long distances, and I didn’t realise there was a university here until my mum came across an advert and told me about it.

    “Studying at ARU Peterborough has far exceeded my expectations. The one-to-one support has helped shape both my confidence and my character. University turned out to be so much more than I imagined – there wasn’t just academic guidance, there was genuine care from the tutors.

    “Throughout my time here, I’ve taken on so many different roles. I co-founded a student society, was elected as a student governor, became a course representative, and worked as a student ambassador, which I absolutely loved. ARU Peterborough really gives you the platform to grow and get involved in ways that make a lasting impact on not just your own student experience, but the university’s future as a whole.”

    Kazim Raffiq-Fazal, from Peterborough, has been a student ambassador during his computer science degree course and has just started a job at a Cambridgeshire software development company.

    Kazim, 20, said: “I did my A-levels here in Peterborough and I knew university would be the next step for me. I went to a few open days at other institutions but I knew I wanted to study close to where I was living. I went to an open day at ARU Peterborough, met some of the lecturers and saw what the course contained, and it was everything I was looking for.

    “I don’t think I would have had the same experience if I had gone to university elsewhere. Studying close to home has allowed me to spend less time commuting and I have been able to take part in more study and activities.

    “In my second year I did an internship at a software company and that led to an offer to work for them after I graduated.”

    ARU Peterborough is a partnership between Anglia Ruskin University, Peterborough City Council and the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority.

    “Huge congratulations to the first ever graduates of ARU Peterborough. This is both a personal achievement for each student and a landmark moment for our city. 

    “ARU Peterborough is transforming lives, tackling the higher education cold spot we faced, and building a pipeline of talent that meets the needs of local businesses. It’s helping people gain the skills and confidence to succeed and thrive in our local economy. 

    “This day is another example of what can be achieved through ambition and partnership between the City Council, ARU and the Combined Authority. And it marks just the beginning of ARU Peterborough’s growing role in the city’s regeneration and success.” 

    Paul Bristow, Mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough

    “Firstly, a huge congratulations to all those who will be graduating on 11 July.

    “When the concept of ARU Peterborough was created, its vision was to teach skills businesses in Peterborough are calling out for – andfor these to be skills needed for careers of the future.

    “These are the very first set of graduates who will be leaving ‘job ready’. It will help ensure we retain our brightest and most hard working students, delivering confident and capable employees to our businesses and helping our city to flourish for years to come.”

    Councillor Nick Thulbourn, cabinet member for growth and regeneration at Peterborough City Council

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Security measures are being strengthened in the Leningrad region of the Russian Federation due to drone attacks

    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

    St. Petersburg, July 7 (Xinhua) — Security measures will be strengthened in Russia’s Leningrad Region due to the threat of attacks by unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), the press service of the regional governor’s administration said on Monday.

    Vehicles with mobile electronic warfare systems will be on duty near the venues where mass events are taking place. Inspection of vehicles entering the courtyards and parking lots of government agencies and government buildings will also be organized in the region. In the event of a threat of attacks using UAVs, an air danger signal will be sent to residents of the Leningrad Region via SMS notification.

    Last weekend, the region’s governor, Alexander Drozdenko, reported that several drone attacks had been repelled in the region. According to him, no one was hurt and there was no damage. –0–

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

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China-Pakistan relations are not directed against third parties – Chinese Foreign Ministry

    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 7 (Xinhua) — China and Pakistan are close neighbors with traditionally friendly relations, and defense and security cooperation is part of normal interaction between the two countries and is not directed against third parties, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said on Monday.

    The diplomat made this statement at a regular briefing for journalists, answering a relevant question.

    She stressed that India and Pakistan are and will always remain neighbors to each other. Both countries are also important neighbors of China. According to Mao Ning, in recent weeks and months, the Chinese side has closely followed the developments between India and Pakistan, actively promoted peace talks, and made efforts to maintain peace and stability in the region.

    China welcomes and supports India and Pakistan in properly handling their differences and seeking fundamental solutions through dialogue and consultation, Mao Ning said, adding that China is willing to continue to play a constructive role to achieve this goal.

    Speaking about relations between China and India, Mao Ning noted that they are “at a key stage of improvement and development.” “China is ready to work with India to advance bilateral relations along the path of healthy and sustainable development,” the official representative of the Chinese Foreign Ministry assured. –0–

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

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China makes representation to India over its actions in Xi Jinping

    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 7 (Xinhua) — China has made representations to India over its actions regarding Xizang and urged the Indian side to exercise caution in words and deeds and stop using Xizang issues to interfere in China’s internal affairs, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said on Monday.

    According to media reports, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi sent greetings to the 14th Dalai Lama on the occasion of his 90th birthday, which was celebrated on July 6. The Indian government was represented at the celebrations by officials, including the Minister for Parliamentary Affairs.

    Commenting on the relevant information at a daily press briefing, Mao Ning said the Chinese government’s position on issues related to Xizang is consistent and clear.

    “As is known, the 14th Dalai Lama is a political exile who has been engaged in anti-Chinese separatist activities for a long time and strives to separate Xi Jinping from China under a religious flag,” the diplomat noted.

    India needs to fully understand the sensitivity of the Xizang-related issues, clearly see through the anti-China and separatist nature of the 14th Dalai Lama’s activities, firmly abide by India’s commitments to China on the Xizang-related issues, exercise caution in words and deeds, and stop using the Xizang issue to interfere in China’s internal affairs, Mao Ning stressed. –0–

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

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Mongolia’s foreign trade turnover decreased by 8.7 percent in the first half of 2025.

    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

    ULAN BATOR, July 7 (Xinhua) — Mongolia’s foreign trade turnover in the first six months of 2025 was 12.1 billion U.S. dollars, down 8.7 percent year-on-year, local media reported Monday, citing data from the General Administration of Customs.

    During the reporting period, a positive trade balance was recorded: exports exceeded imports by $1 billion.

    In the first half of the year, China once again became Mongolia’s top export destination, accounting for 91.6 percent of Mongolia’s total exports. –0–

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

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Call for Papers: Conference on Transport of Nuclear and Radioactive Material

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)

    Interested contributors have until 15 September 2025 to submit synopses for the IAEA’s International Conference on the Safe and Secure Transport of Nuclear and Radioactive Material.

    The IAEA estimates that 20 million shipments of radioactive material are transported every year. These materials are shipped nationally and internationally by road, rail, sea, air and inland waterways for applications such as medicine and health, agriculture, nuclear power generation and advanced scientific research. 

    The conference, to be hosted in Vienna, Austria from 23 to 27 March 2026, will cover the legislative and regulatory framework for the transport of nuclear and other radioactive material, safety and security by design; safety and security during transport operations. It builds on previous events held in 2011 and 2021.

    “For decades, IAEA safety standards have been the backbone for the safe transport of radioactive material. With rapid technological advances in the nuclear and transport sectors, the global landscape is evolving — and fast. This conference aims to drive innovation, share experience and help strengthen the global standards,” said Shazia Fayyaz, one of the scientific secretaries and Head of the IAEA Transport Safety Unit in the Division of Radiation, Transport and Waste Safety.

    “During transport, nuclear and radioactive material may be vulnerable to a number of modal specific risks and threats,” said Robert Officer, the other scientific secretary of the conference and Head of the IAEA Transport Security Unit in the Division of Nuclear Security. “The conference will further raise awareness through sharing experiences on strengthening safety and security capabilities, including on such topics as legal and policy frameworks, and technological and commercial trends for the protection of end-to-end transport.”

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Sevilla Outcome Document ‘Seeks to Rekindle Sense of Hope Embodied in Sustainable Development Goals’, Notes Deputy Secretary-General, Closing Conference

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    Following are UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed’s remarks at the closing of the Fourth Financing for Development Conference in Sevilla, Spain, today:

    At the opening of this conference, the Secretary-General remarked that, for decades, the mission of sustainable development has united countries.  Yet today, development and its great enabler — international cooperation — are facing massive headwinds.

    Over the last four days — through formal sessions, six multistakeholder round-tables, 400 side-meetings and special sessions, and countless bilateral discussions — we have reckoned with this challenge.

    The human consequences of rising debt burdens, escalating trade tensions and steep cuts to official development assistance (ODA) have been brought into sharp relief. 

    Likewise, we understand all too well the collateral damage that competing Government priorities can have on development finance and that global support for sustainable development can no longer be taken for granted. 

    Nevertheless, amid this sobering backdrop, the Sevilla conference has delivered a powerful response. 

    We have agreed an outcome document — the Compromiso de Sevilla — that upholds the commitments from Addis Ababa 10 years ago and seeks to rekindle the sense of hope embodied in the Sustainable Development Goals.

    The outcome document contains three major areas of commitments. 

    First, an investment push to close the financing gap.  This incorporates steps to grow the full capital stack:  domestic, international and private capital.

    Second, at last, a serious attempt to confront the debt crisis.  The actions agreed here seek to reset how debt is used, managed and treated, to make it work in service of sustainable development.

    Third, the elevation of developing countries throughout the international financial architecture.   Developing countries need to be heard in global policymaking — just as they have been at this conference.

    In addition to the outcome document, the conference has witnessed the unveiling of more than 130 initiatives to turn the outcome document into action:  through the Sevilla Platform for Action.

    The Platform includes:  A debt pause alliance to relieve countries of fiscal stress in times of crisis; a new tool for multilateral development banks to manage currency risks; a commission to explore the future of development cooperation; and the introduction of the world’s first solidarity levy on premium-class flights and private jets to generate new resources for sustainable development including climate action.

    In addition, I’m delighted to report today that the Government of Spain will support the UN Secretary-General, in consultation with Member States and stakeholders, to operationalize the Sevilla Forum on Debt, to help countries learn from one another and coordinate their approaches in debt management negotiations and restructuring.

    As I think back over the past four days, I’ve been struck by three aspects about this conference.

    First is the remarkable sense of resolve on display. 

    Attendees here are under no illusion of the difficulty of our current context.  But they have approached this moment with a sense of unity and solidarity and demonstrated that intergovernmental processes still matter and still work.  I hope this spirit will be taken forward into the World Summit for Social Development, the G20 and thirtieth UN Climate Change Conference later this year.

    Second, the conference has been deeply practical. 

    In today’s constrained financial environment, our community is working to stretch the resources we have, and to focus them where they’re most needed, to confront the largest problems, and search for innovative solutions.

    Third, everyone is focused on implementation.

    The commitments agreed in the outcome document come with specifics, and Member States, financial institutions, businesses and civil society are already looking ahead at how these commitments will be delivered, with a can-do attitude. 

    Taken together — resolve, practicality and implementation — this provides a basis for rebuilding trust and solidarity. 

    Let me conclude by sincerely thanking the people and the Government of Spain, who have proven not only to be gracious hosts, but have demonstrated outstanding leadership on sustainable development. 

    The journey ahead will not be easy.  The global challenges we face will not be overcome overnight. 

    But I leave Sevilla confident that we can walk that path together with clarity, with courage, a sense of purpose and commitment.

    Let the Fourth Financing for Development Conference be remembered as a conference where the world chose cooperation over fragmentation, unity over division and action over inertia.

    Let us leave here inspired and ready to finance the future that we want.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: DHS Terminates TPS for Nicaragua: It Was Never Meant to Last 25 Years

    Source: US Department of Homeland Security

    WASHINGTON – Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem today announced the termination of Temporary Protected Status for Nicaragua, which will expire on July 5, 2025.  The termination will be effective 60 days after the publication of the Federal Register notice. 

    At least 60 days before a TPS designation expires, the Secretary of Homeland Security, after consultation with appropriate U.S. government agencies, must review the conditions in a country designated for TPS to determine whether the conditions supporting the designation continue to be met and, if so, how long to extend the designation.  

    “Temporary Protected Status was never meant to last a quarter of a century,” said a DHS Spokesperson. “The impacts of a natural disaster impacting Nicaragua in 1999 no longer exist.  The environmental situation has improved enough that it is safe enough for Nicaraguan citizens to return home. This decision restores integrity in our immigration system and ensures that TPS remains temporary.“

    After conferring with interagency partners, Secretary Noem determined that conditions in Nicaragua no longer meet the TPS statutory requirements. The Secretary’s decision was based on a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services review of the conditions in Nicaragua and in consultation with the Department of State. The Secretary determined that, overall, country conditions have improved to the point where Nicaraguans can return home in safety.

    Nicaraguan nationals departing the United States are encouraged to use the U.S. Customs and Border Protection CBP Home app to report their departure from the United States and take advantage of a safe, secure way to self-deport which includes a complimentary plane ticket, a $1,000 exit bonus, and potential future opportunities for legal immigration.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: With Improved Conditions, DHS Ends TPS for Honduras

    Source: US Department of Homeland Security

    WASHINGTON – After finding improved country conditions in Honduras, Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem today announced the termination of Temporary Protected Status, as required by the statute. The termination will be effective 60 days after the publication of the Federal Register notice. 

    Honduras was designated for TPS in 1999 after the impact of Hurricane Mitch in 1998. The Government of Honduras has made tremendous strides over the years to recover from the hurricane and, as a result of those efforts, it is safe for their nationals to return home. 

    “Temporary Protected Status was designed to be just that—temporary,” said Secretary Kristi Noem. “It is clear that the Government of Honduras has taken all of the necessary steps to overcome the impacts of Hurricane Mitch, almost 27 years ago. Honduran citizens can safely return home, and DHS is here to help facilitate their voluntary return. Honduras has been a wonderful partner of the Trump Administration, helping us deliver on key promises to the American people. We look forward to continuing our work with them.“

    After conferring with interagency partners, Secretary Noem determined that conditions in Honduras no longer meet the TPS statutory requirements. The Secretary’s decision was based on a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services review of the conditions in Honduras and in consultation with the Department of State. The Secretary determined that, overall, country conditions have improved to the point where Hondurans can return home in safety. Additionally, under President Castro, Honduras has taken steps to welcome home their citizens, providing access to economic and food assistance programs, as well as labor integration and job training.

    Honduran nationals departing the United States are encouraged to use the U.S. Customs and Border Protection CBP Home app to report their departure from the United States and take advantage of a safe, secure way to leave the United States with a complimentary plane ticket, a $1,000 exit bonus to help them resettle in Honduras, and preserve future opportunities for legal immigration.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Guinea-Bissau: 2025 Article IV Consultation, Eighth Review Under the Extended Credit Facility, Requests for Rephasing of Access, Extension of the Arrangement, Waivers of Nonobservance of Performance Criteria, Modification of Performance Criteria, and Financing Assurances Review-Press Release; Staff Report; and Statement by the Executive Director for Guinea-Bissau

    Source: International Monetary Fund

    International Monetary Fund. African Dept. “Guinea-Bissau: 2025 Article IV Consultation, Eighth Review Under the Extended Credit Facility, Requests for Rephasing of Access, Extension of the Arrangement, Waivers of Nonobservance of Performance Criteria, Modification of Performance Criteria, and Financing Assurances Review-Press Release; Staff Report; and Statement by the Executive Director for Guinea-Bissau”, IMF Staff Country Reports 2025, 167 (2025), accessed July 7, 2025, https://doi.org/10.5089/9798229016094.002

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Guinea-Bissau: 2025 Article IV Consultation, Eighth Review Under the Extended Credit Facility, Requests for Rephasing of Access, Extension of the Arrangement, Waivers of Nonobservance of Performance Criteria, Modification of Performance Criteria, and Financing Assurances Review-Press Release; Staff Report; and Statement by the Executive Director for Guinea-Bissau

    Source: International Monetary Fund

    International Monetary Fund. African Dept. “Guinea-Bissau: 2025 Article IV Consultation, Eighth Review Under the Extended Credit Facility, Requests for Rephasing of Access, Extension of the Arrangement, Waivers of Nonobservance of Performance Criteria, Modification of Performance Criteria, and Financing Assurances Review-Press Release; Staff Report; and Statement by the Executive Director for Guinea-Bissau”, IMF Staff Country Reports 2025, 167 (2025), accessed July 7, 2025, https://doi.org/10.5089/9798229016094.002

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: IMF Reaches Staff-Level Agreement with Cameroon on the Third Review of Resilience and Sustainability Facility and Eighth Reviews of Extended Credit Facility and Extended Fund Facility

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    July 7, 2025

    End-of-Mission press releases include statements of IMF staff teams that convey preliminary findings after a visit to a country. The views expressed in this statement are those of the IMF staff and do not necessarily represent the views of the IMF’s Executive Board. Based on the preliminary findings of this mission, staff will prepare a report that, subject to management approval, will be presented to the IMF’s Executive Board for discussion and decision.

    • The IMF and the Cameroonian authorities have reached a staff-level agreement on the eighth reviews of the Extended Credit Facility (ECF) and the Extended Fund Facility (EFF), and the third review of the Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF).
    • Cameroon’s economy picked up slightly with real growth estimated at 3.5 percent in 2024, up from 3.2 percent in 2023. Inflation is trending down but remains elevated with an average inflation of 4.5 percent in 2024.
    • Program performance was mixed. Higher-than-expected current spending led to a slippage on the fiscal deficit target at end 2024, requiring corrective measures. The authorities have made progress on a broad structural agenda. They are encouraged to sustain efforts to restructure SONARA, complete key infrastructure projects, and strengthen the financial sector.

    Washington, DC: An International Monetary Fund (IMF) team, led by
    Ms. Cemile Sancak, Mission Chief for Cameroon, visited Yaoundé from April 30 to May 8 and held subsequent meetings to discuss progress on reforms and the authorities’ policy priorities in the context of the eighth review of their four-year economic program supported by the Extended Credit Facility (ECF) and the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) arrangements, and the third review of the Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF). The ECF/EFF arrangements were approved by the IMF Executive Board for a total amount of SDR 483 million (US$689.5 million) in July 2021 (see press release 21/237). An extension of these arrangements of 12 months was approved in December 2023 to allow more time to implement the policies and reforms, and access was augmented by SDR 110.4 million (US$147.6 million) (see press release 23/469). The 18-month RSF was approved by the Executive Board in January 2024 in the amount of SDR 138 million (US$183.4 million) (see press release 24/30).

    At the conclusion of the discussions, Ms. Sancak issued the following statement:

    “The IMF and the Cameroonian authorities have reached a staff-level agreement on the eighth reviews of the ECF/EFF arrangements, and the third review of the RSF arrangement. The agreement is subject to approval by the IMF Executive Board. Completion of the review would enable disbursement under the ECF-EFF arrangements of SDR 55.2 million (US$75.9 million) and disbursement under the RSF arrangement of SDR 51.7 million (US$71.1 million).

    “Cameroon’s economy expanded by 3.5 percent in 2024, up from 3.2 percent growth in 2024. Inflation remains in decline with a twelve-month average inflation of 4.5 percent in 2024, down from 7.5 percent in 2023.

    “The 2024 fiscal outturn was weaker than expected with a non-oil primary deficit of 2.4 percent of GDP, exceeding the target of 2 percent of GDP. An overrun on current expenditures led to an accumulation of new payment arrears and reduced space for pro-growth investment expenditure. The authorities will revise the 2025 budget to take into consideration the 2024 outturn and announce supporting measures to address the source of the fiscal slippage and assure a net reduction of payment arrears over 2025.       

    “The economic outlook remains favorable assuming fiscal discipline over the coming electoral period and continued reform implementation. Nevertheless, downside risks have increased, notably with heightened global economic uncertainty. The growth forecast for 2025 has been marked down slightly to 3.8 percent amidst weakening global demand and tighter financing conditions. With the implementation of corrective measures, the authorities expect to resume fiscal consolidation and target a non-oil primary deficit of 1.4 percent in 2025. Over the medium-term, economic growth is forecast to reach 4.5 percent and inflation to slow gradually toward the regional convergence criterion of 3 percent.

    “The authorities have made progress on a broad structural reform agenda. Over the course of their Fund-supported program, some 40 structural benchmarks will have been implemented, aligning with the objectives set out under the national development strategy (SND30). Going forward, it will be important to advance the restructuring of SONARA, sustain efforts to complete key infrastructure projects, and strengthen the financial sector by addressing persistent weaknesses and fully implementing the national financial inclusion strategy and the financial sector development strategy.  

    “Under the RSF, Cameroon has made substantial progress on its climate policy framework and enhanced readiness for climate adaptation and mitigation. The authorities have implemented most of the remaining four reform measures: the establishment of climate guidelines for evaluating investment projects, adoption of a national climate plan, and elaboration of a national strategy for disaster risk financing.

    “The IMF team met with the Prime Minister, Joseph Dion Ngute, the Minister of State, Secretary General of the Presidency, Ferdinand Ngoh Ngoh, the Minister of Finance, Louis Paul Motaze, and other senior officials. The mission also met with representatives of development partners, the private sector, and civil society. The team wishes to thank the Cameroonian authorities for their excellent cooperation and for the open and constructive dialogue.”

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Wafa Amr

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

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/07/07/pr-25241-cameroon-imf-reaches-agreement-on-the-3rd-rev-of-rsf-and-8th-rev-of-ecf-and-eff

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Louisiana teacher elected to NEA Executive Committee

    Source: US National Education Union

    PORTLAND, Ore.—A dedicated Louisiana educator has been elected to the executive committee of the National Education Association, the nation’s largest labor union. Dr. Tia T. Mills was chosen by thousands of fellow educators at the NEA’s Representative Assembly. 

    Mills—a special education teacher from Baton Rouge and the current president of the Louisiana Association of Educators—brings nearly two decades of experience, a bold commitment to social justice, and a proven history of mobilizing public support for public schools. She will now contribute her invaluable expertise and inexhaustible energy to NEA’s mission to ensure every student has access to a quality public education, regardless of their ZIP codes. Her leadership comes at a time when communities nationwide are gathering to confront rising challenges and unprecedented opportunities for our public schools.

    “Dr. Tia Mills has been an inspirational leader in Louisiana, and I am confident she will bring that same commitment to NEA’s national efforts advocating for equity and racial and social justice in public education,” said NEA President Becky Pringle. “She leads with passion and purpose and understands what it means to build power from the ground up. Tia’s voice will be an extraordinary asset to the Executive Committee as we continue to work for the public schools all our students deserve and the respect all educators have earned.”

    A strong and tireless advocate for students and their educators, Mills has received numerous accolades, including the NAACP’s Benjamin Hooks Keeper of the Flame Award, the NEA Foundation’s Horace Mann Award, and recognition as one of Southern University’s 40 Under 40. Her leadership extends beyond the classroom, serving on the board of Teachers Retirement System of Louisiana, the U.S. Advisory Commission on Civil Rights for Louisiana, and the Louisiana Legislative Black Caucus Foundation. Mills’ courageous advocacy will be a driving force as NEA continues its pursuit of equity, excellence, and a flourishing democracy in classrooms and on campuses nationwide.

    “It’s been such a joy to be gathered with my union siblings from across the country,” said Mills. “I saw a room filled with people with passion and dedication for our association. I’m so eager to bring their voices and their values with me into my service on the Executive Committee.”

    Nearly 7,000 educators are in Portland, Oregon, for the 168th Annual Meeting and 104th RA, the organization’s top decision-making body, which sets Association policy for the coming year. Delegates will complete an agenda, which includes adopting a budget, a legislative agenda for the next year, electing executive committee members, and addressing new business items.

    For more information on NEA’s Annual Meeting and Representative Assembly, go to www.nea.org/ra

    Keep up with the conversation on social media at #NEARA

    Follow us on Bluesky at https://bsky.app/profile/neapresident.bsky.social and https://bsky.app/profile/neatoday.bsky.social  

    # # #

    The National Education Association is the nation’s largest professional employee organization, representing more than 3 million elementary and secondary teachers, higher education faculty, education support professionals, school administrators, retired educators, students preparing to become teachers, healthcare workers, and public employees. Learn more at www.nea.org.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: High school science teacher and union activist from Illinois elected to NEA Executive Committee

    Source: US National Education Union

    PORTLAND, Ore.—A dedicated Illinois teacher and lifelong union activist will serve on the executive committee of the National Education Association, the nation’s largest labor union. Bill Farmer, a high school science teacher from Evanston, Illinois, was elected by his union siblings at NEA’s Representative Assembly to serve on the organization’s influential and highest governing body. 

    As a classroom teacher for more than two decades, Farmer has dedicated his life’s work to organizing and advocating for students, public schools, and union members. As president of his local, he helped deliver big wins for educators—including lower health care costs and securing 12 weeks of paid parental leave—while keeping membership above 98% after the Supreme Court struck down agency fees.

    “Bill Farmer leads with his union values. His sharp organizing instincts and a deep commitment to public education have brought transformative change to his students, fellow educators, and his community,” said NEA President Becky Pringle. “As public schools face even more challenges, NEA members are mobilizing and speaking up because unions are made for moments like these. Bill’s deep organizing experience and unwavering commitment to racial and social justice will help power our movement forward and protect the rights of every educator and student.”

    Farmer led the Illinois Education Association’s efforts to overhaul legislative priorities with a focus on racial and social justice and helped design a more equitable dues structure based on income. Nationally, he has served on NEA’s Budget Committee, the Charter School Task Force and Safe, Just and Equitable Schools Task Force, and chaired the Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity (SOGI) Committee.

    “I believe in the collective power of educators to transform lives. It’s time to ignite our potential energy—and turn it into real change for our students and our union,” said Farmer. “I look forward to the opportunity to help support our members to organize for power back in their local communities to advocate for our students, strengthen our public schools, and uplift our professions. Our students deserve classrooms that embrace the value of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility so we can create a society where everyone can thrive.”

    Nearly 7,000 educators are in Portland, Oregon, for the 168th Annual Meeting and 104th RA, the organization’s top decision-making body, which sets Association policy for the coming year. Delegates will complete an agenda, which includes adopting a budget, electing executive committee members, and addressing new business items.

    For more information on NEA’s Annual Meeting and Representative Assembly, go to www.nea.org/ra

    Keep up with the conversation on social media at #NEARA

    Follow us on Bluesky at https://bsky.app/profile/neapresident.bsky.social and https://bsky.app/profile/neatoday.bsky.social  

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    The National Education Association is the nation’s largest professional employee organization, representing more than 3 million elementary and secondary teachers, higher education faculty, education support professionals, school administrators, retired educators, students preparing to become teachers, healthcare workers, and public employees. Learn more at www.nea.org.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Convicted Killer Sentenced to 35½ Years for RICO Conspiracy and VICAR Kidnapping

    Source: US FBI

               WASHINGTON – U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro announced that Christopher Green, 39, of the District of Columbia, was sentenced today to a total of 35 ½ years in prison for conspiracy in violation of the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO), violent crime in aid of racketeering (VICAR) kidnapping, first degree murder while armed (with aggravating circumstances), attempted robbery while armed, assault with a dangerous weapon, and firearms offenses, in connection with a series of violent crimes he committed in early 2017.  The prosecution had asked the judge to impose a sentence of 60 years.

               In addition to the 426-month prison sentence, U.S. District Court Judge Randolph D. Moss ordered that the defendant also serve five years of supervised release.

              The sentencing today follows a 12-day re-trial, earlier this year, in which a federal jury found Green, aka “Twin,” guilty of RICO conspiracy and VICAR kidnapping.

              At his initial trial in 2021, Green was found guilty of the murder, assault and attempted robbery offenses. However, the jury was unable to reach a verdict on the RICO conspiracy and VICAR charges, which led to the recent trial and convictions.

               Green was sentenced today with respect to the charges he was convicted of in both trials.

             According to the government’s evidence, Green was a core member of a criminal organization that operated in the District of Columbia, Prince George’s County, Maryland, and elsewhere, primarily making money through a series of armed robberies. Green’s actions in Southeast Washington, D.C., on April 9, 2017, led to the death of 25-year-old Zaan Scott. Mr. Scott, a swim coach at the Eastern Market pool, was on his way home when Green attempted to rob him at gunpoint. Mr. Scott died on May 17, 2017, of a blood clot that the medical examiner determined was a result of the shooting. Green was also found guilty at the initial trial of firing gunshots at another victim on February 23, 2017.

               In the recent re-trial, the evidence established that Green and a co-conspirator committed a series of violent acts and were working as an “enterprise” to enrich themselves. The VICAR kidnapping conviction in the re-trial involved an incident on April 8, 2017, in which Green and a co-conspirator confronted a young man at gunpoint as the man was getting out of his car in a convenience store parking lot. Green ordered the victim back into the car and robbed him of his ATM card. He then forced the victim to drive to a nearby apartment complex, where he forced him to take off his clothes, and then robbed him of his sneakers and other belongings.

               Joining in the announcement were Assistant Director in Charge Steven J. Jensen of the FBI Washington Field Office, and Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).

               This case was investigated by the FBI’s Washington Field Office, the Metropolitan Police Department, and the Prince George’s County Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nihar R. Mohanty of the Violent Crime and Narcotics Trafficking Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Liebman of the Superior Court Division Homicide Section.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Four Years in Prison for Prior Felon on Supervised Release Found in Possession of a Glock

    Source: US FBI

                WASHINGTON – Robert Varez Williams, 28, of the District of Columbia, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court to 48 months in federal prison for being a previously convicted felon in possession of a loaded Glock 23, a semiautomatic pistol fitted with an extended capacity magazine, while he was on supervised release for a prior violent firearm offense, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.

                Williams pleaded guilty March 25 before the Honorable Dabney L. Friedrich to being a felon in unlawful possession of a firearm. In addition to the 48-month prison term, Judge Friedrich ordered Williams to serve three years of supervised release.

                According to court documents, on Jan. 10, 2024, officers from the Metropolitan Police Department’s Robbery Suppression Unit were on patrol when they spotted Williams driving erratically in a silver Volkswagen. Williams fled as the officers attempted a traffic stop. A short while later the officers located the VW on the 900 block of R Street, NW. Williams jumped out of the car and sprinted away on foot. An officer caught Williams in an alley off R Street.

                Another officer who remained with the car, saw a gun on the front driver’s seat where Williams had been sitting. Police later identified the firearm as a Glock, Model 23, .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol loaded with 21 rounds of ammunition. An additional officer pulled a passenger from the car as another conducted a search of the vehicle. That officer found a second Glock pistol outfitted with a machine gun conversion device, under a coat on the front passenger seat, 44 pills that tested positive for MDMA, suspected PCP in a vial, additional rounds of ammunition, and a bottle of alcohol on the car’s center consol.

                At the time he was arrested in this case, Williams was on supervised release in the District for attempted assault with a deadly weapon and an unlawful possession of a firearm.

                This case was investigated by the Metropolitan Police Department and the FBI Washington Field Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Shehzad Akhtar and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Haley M. Pennington of the District of Columbia.

    Investigators recovered a Glock 23, .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol, loaded with 21 rounds, from Williams’ car.

    An officer found a second Glock pistol outfitted with a machine gun conversion in Williams’ Volkswagen under a coat.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Marijuana Dealer Who Possessed Machine Gun Sentenced to 30 Months in Federal Prison

    Source: US FBI

                WASHINGTON – U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro announced that Zimarie Bryant, 20, of the District of Columbia, was sentenced today to 30 months in federal prison in connection with marijuana trafficking and illegally possessing a machine gun.

                Bryant, an aspiring rapper aka “Cruddy Marie,” pleaded guilty on March 13, 2025, to one count of possession with intent to distribute marijuana and to one count of unlawful possession of a machine gun. In addition to the 30-month prison term, U.S. District Court Judge Amy Berman Jackson ordered Bryant to serve three years of supervised release.

                According to court documents, on Aug. 31, 2023, FBI agents went to an apartment in the 3600 Block of Jay Street, NE, to execute a federal arrest warrant. Agents knocked on the door but did not gain entry for more than 20 minutes. Agents obtained a search warrant and recovered numerous firearms, including a 9mm Glock 45 that had been modified with a switch to make it a functionally fully automatic machine gun.

                Agents also recovered about 12 pounds of marijuana, ammunition, and a firearm magazine. As part of this plea, Bryant acknowledged that he possessed the marijuana with the intent to distribute it, that he possessed the machine gun in connection with that possession with intent to distribute, and that he knew the firearm was a machine gun.

                While Bryant was released from the apartment, messages from his Instagram account from around the time of the search acknowledge his presence at the scene. On Aug. 31, 2023, Bryant sent an Instagram message to another user saying, “I was just locked up and got picked up by the fbi.” In a separate conversation that day, another Instagram user asked him, “Ever found some thunder 1” “? *”, which refers to marijuana. Bryant responded, “I had some but fbi ran in our spot and took everything”.

                On May 30, 2024, Bryant was arrested at an apartment in Southeast Washington, D.C. Law enforcement recovered a disassembled Glock 19 handgun, two 9mm magazines with 15 rounds each, a black scale, and two additional 9mm rounds. When Bryant was shown his arrest warrant during booking, he denied having a machine gun but did admit he had a Glock 19.

                Bryant has a history of using and possessing firearms unlawfully. On June 30, 2023, he posted a video on Instagram showing him possessing what appears to be the same firearm involved in this case.

                Joining in the announcement were Assistant Director in Chief Steven J. Jensen of the FBI Washington Field Office, Special Agent in Charge Ibrar A. Mian of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Washington Division, and Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).

                This case was investigated by the FBI Washington Field Office, the DEA, and MPD. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Solomon Eppel.

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