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Category: DJF

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Free summer activities at Island libraries 30 July 2025 Free summer activities at Island libraries

    Source: Aisle of Wight

    With the summer holidays in full swing, Isle of Wight libraries are proving once again they’re more than just places to borrow books.

    Across the Island, libraries are opening their doors to families with a packed programme of free creative activities designed to keep children entertained, inspired, and learning throughout the break.

    From painting rock owls to crafting garden wind chimes, there’s something to inspire every young imagination.

    Lord Louis Library, Newport, is hosting a variety of themed sessions:

    • Paint Your Own Rock Owls — Thursday, July 31, 2.30–3.30pm (Ages 5+)

    • Create Your Own Pretty Butterflies — Saturday, August 2, 2.30–3.30pm (Ages 5+)

    • Make a Handprint Blossom Tree — Thursday, August 7, 2.30–3.30pm (Ages 3+)

    • Make a Garden in a Teacup –— Monday, August 11, 2.15–3.30pm (Ages 7+)

    • Make Garden Wind Chimes — Monday, August 18, 2.30–3.30pm (Ages 5+)

    • Make Clay Mini Beasts — Saturday, August 23, 2–3.30pm (Ages 5+)

    Sandown Library offers drop-in and bookable sessions:

    • Junk Modelling — Tuesday, August 5, 10.30am–12 noon (Ages 4+, drop-in)

    • Plant Pot Decorating and Re-potting — Friday, August 15, 10.30am (Ages 5+)

    • Drop-in Summer Crafts — Tuesday, August 19, 10.30am–12 noon (Ages 4+)

    • Make a Pirate Mask — Saturday, August 23, 10.30am–12 noon (Ages 3+)

    Freshwater Library is running a series of open-access printing workshops:

    • Printing Paper — Wednesday, August 6, 2–4pm

    • Printing T-Shirts — Wednesday, August 13, 2–4pm

    • Printing Bags — Wednesday, August 20, 2–4pm

    • Printing Pictures — Wednesday, August 27, 2–4pm

    Ventnor Library invites children to:

    • Grow a Story: Creative Session — Wednesday, August 13, 10.30–11.30am (Ages 5+)

    • Make a Wriggly Caterpillar — Saturday, August 23, 10.30–11.30am (Ages 5+)

    Ryde Library is also joining the fun:

    • Make a Carnival Mask — Wednesday, August 20, 10.30am–12 noon (drop-in)

    • Story Garden Craft — Friday, August 22, 10.30–11.30am (Ages 5+)

    Cowes Library will host a Garden Craft session on Saturday, August 16, 2–4pm (drop-in). Please note: there are currently no toilet facilities at this location.

    All activities are free of charge, but many require booking due to limited spaces. To reserve a spot, contact the relevant library directly. For full details, visit www.iow.gov.uk/thelibrary

    Louise Emery, development librarian for the Isle of Wight Council Library Service, said: “We know how important it is for children to stay active and creative over the summer.

    “These sessions are a great way to have fun, try something new, and discover the joy of reading. We’re really proud to offer such a wide range of free activities for families across the Island.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Cholera outbreak in West and Central Africa poses crisis for children

    Source: United Nations 2

    “The heavy rains, widespread flooding, and the high level of displacement are all fuelling the risk of cholera transmission and putting the lives of children at risk,” said UNICEF Regional Director for West and Central Africa, Gilles Fagninou.

    Cholera is an acute diarrheal infection caused by consuming food or water contaminated with bacteria. The disease can be treated with oral rehydration solution and antibiotics, but it can be fatal within hours if untreated.

    Young children are particularly vulnerable to cholera due to factors such as poor hygiene, inadequate sanitation and access to safe water, and a greater risk of severe dehydration.

    Regional hotspots

    Active outbreaks in the hotspots of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Nigeria are fuelling the risk of cross-border transmission to neighbouring countries.  

    The DRC is the hardest-hit country in the region, reporting more than 38,000 cases and 951 deaths in July. 

    Children under five now account for nearly 26 per cent of cases in the DRC, and without stronger containment measures, they may face the worst cholera crisis since 2017.

    The situation in capital Kinshasa is particularly critical, as intense rainfall and widespread flooding have caused cases to surge sharply over the past four weeks. Straining an already overwhelmed healthcare system, the city is now facing an alarming case fatality rate of 8 per cent.

    Nigeria is the second most affected country in the region, with 3,109 suspected cholera cases and 86 deaths as of the end of June. Cholera is endemic in the country, where major outbreaks have reoccurred in recent years.

    Region-wide crisis

    Chad, Republic of Congo, Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire and Togo are also facing ongoing epidemics.  

    612 cholera cases were reported in Ghana as of 28 April, 322 cases and 15 deaths were reported in Côte d’Ivoire as of 14 July, and 209 cases and five deaths were reported in Togo as of June 22.  

    Niger, Liberia, Benin, the Central African Republic and Cameroon are also under close surveillance due to their vulnerability.

    UNICEF response

    Urgent and scaled-up efforts are needed to prevent further spread and contain the disease across the region.

    Throughout the outbreaks, UNICEF has delivered lifesaving health, water, hygiene and sanitation (WASH) supplies to treatment facilities and communities.  

    The agency has also supported cholera vaccinations, scaled up preparedness and response efforts, and encouraged families to seek timely treatment and improve their hygiene practices.

    “We are in a race against time, working hand in hand with the authorities to deliver essential healthcare, safe water, and proper nutrition to children already at risk of deadly diseases and severe acute malnutrition,” said Mr. Fagninou.  

    “Together with an array of partners, we are strengthening community engagement and extending our reach to remote and underserved areas, making every effort to ensure that no child is left behind.”

    UNICEF West and Central Africa urgently requires $20 million over the next three months to scale up critical support in health, WASH, and risk communication and community engagement. 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: UPDATE #2: Concern for welfare – Alice Springs Region

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force continues to hold serious concerns for the welfare of 26-year-old Gach, who has not been seen or heard from since 5:30pm on Monday 28 July 2025.

    Gach is described as a 6-foot-tall male of Sudanese appearance with a lean build, short curly hair, and was last seen wearing a red or orange puffer jacket, cream-coloured tracksuit pants, and dark-coloured runners.

    The NT Police Search and Rescue Section (SRS) is leading an intensive search operation, now into its third day, approximately 21 km west of Alice Springs. The operation is being supported by over 50 personnel, including members from local police units and partner agencies such as NT Emergency Services, NT Fire and Rescue Service, and Parks and Wildlife NT.

    The coordinated search effort includes foot teams, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), drones, and helicopter support, with more than 500 km² of challenging terrain already covered.

    Search Coordinator Acting Sergeant Chris Grotherr said, “Search efforts have been extensive, with significant contributions from local resources. These efforts will continue into day 3. However, forecasted sub-zero overnight temperatures over the coming days are increasing our concerns for Gach’s welfare.”

    Police are appealing to the public for any information that may assist search efforts.

    Anyone who may have seen Gach in the vicinity of Larapinta Drive, Standley Chasm, or Simpsons Gap on the evening of Monday 28 July, or who has any knowledge of his current whereabouts, is urged to contact police on 131 444.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: ‘Choose Transformation over Dependency’, With Scaled-Up, Coordinated Investment to Make Food Systems Resilience, Sustainable, Deputy Secretary-General Urges

    Source: United Nations 4

    Following are UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed’s keynote remarks, as prepared for delivery, on food systems transformation in complex settings, in Addis Ababa today:

    I am honoured to be here today.  I thank our co-hosts Ethiopia and Italy and the World Food Programme (WFP), United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the HDP Nexus Coalition for organizing this important conversation.

    And I thank all of you present today for your commitment to putting an end to hunger and transforming our food systems, making these work even in the most dire and complex circumstances.

    Communities are trapped around the world in relentless cycles of hardship.  Over 37 million children under five will face acute malnutrition this year — almost the entire population of Canada.  Of those, nearly 10 million will suffer severe wasting — the deadliest form of undernutrition.

    In many countries facing the greatest challenges, courage is on display at all moments.  But, we must ensure that the courage is matched with long term solutions that can result in resilience and sustainability.  Short-term interventions dominate, with little connection to longer-term development planning are not the solution we are seeking.  We must choose transformation over dependency.

    We have good examples.  Nations are embedding resilience into national strategies.  Leaders are refusing to accept hunger as inevitable. Instead, they are combining local, indigenous and traditional knowledge with science to accelerate action towards inclusive and resilient food systems while rebuilding their nations.  These Governments are not waiting for permission, they are leading.  But, leadership cannot succeed alone, it must be built on a solid foundation rooted in adequate finance, partnership and inclusion.

    First, finance.  We need finance that multiplies impact, catalytic investments that invest in local capacity, patient capital that waits for transformation, not quick returns.  The World Bank has committed to this approach, we must encourage others to follow.

    Second, we need coordination that serves people, not bureaucracies.  Humanitarian response linked to long-term development.  Climate action connected to food security.  Competing mandates replaced by shared purpose.

    Third, we need to place communities at the centre of our efforts.  Women grow 60 per cent of Africa’s food but own less than 20 per cent of the land.  Young people are at the vanguard of innovative agriculture but cannot access the financing that supports them.  This is especially the case in complex settings where perceived risk is higher and the options fewer.

    Yet, investing in the transformation of food systems is especially critical in complex settings where equitable and sustainable food systems do more than feed people — they drive food security, strengthen resilience, enable stability and promote inclusive economic growth.

    This transformation must be guided by local innovations and proven strategies, rooted in data and the lived realities of crisis-affected communities.

    We have the tools, and we have inspiring examples from countries leading change, many of which we will hear in this room today.  What we need now is accelerated action at scale.

    Food systems hold the key to sustainable development.  Let us use that key to unlock opportunity, stability, and hope for and with those who need it most.  And let us not forget that we need to strengthen our multilateral system to make peace and sustainable development a reality for all communities around the world.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sens. Markey and Slotkin, Rep. Strickland Introduce Legislation to Boost Funding for Research on Gun Violence Prevention

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey

    Bill Text (PDF)

    Washington (July 30, 2025) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), a member of the Gun Violence Prevention Caucus, along with Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.) and Representative Marilyn Strickland (WA-10), reintroduced the Gun Violence Prevention Research Act, legislation that would dedicate $50 million each year for the next five years for gun violence prevention research at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

    This legislation arrives at a critical time. After a decades-long prohibition on the CDC’s ability to conduct gun violence prevention research, Congress began to secure $25 million annually for this research in Fiscal Year 2020. However, the Trump administration has effectively dismantled gun violence prevention efforts, decimating the staff at the CDC responsible for this critical research and terminating $158 million—more than half—of federal funding for gun violence prevention programs at the Department of Justice. The Gun Violence Prevention Research Act would help ensure we have the tools to stem the scourge of gun violence in our communities.

    “Stopping the spread of our nation’s gun violence epidemic requires action on the reforms we know are essential and effective,” said Senator Markey. “We must invest more to study the root causes of violence and develop evidence-based solutions. This legislation would allow our nation’s top medical, scientific, and public health researchers to conduct studies that would save lives. It is critical that we chart a path out of this public health crisis.”

    “Gun violence is a uniquely American crisis that continues to impact communities across Michigan and our country,” said Senator Slotkin. “As the first Member of Congress to have two mass shootings in my former House district—Oxford High School and Michigan State University—I’ve seen first-hand the devasting toll gun violence has on our communities. As elected officials, our most basic responsibility is to protect our children from the things that are truly harming them. We must treat this epidemic like the national security threat that it is. And that means using every tool in the toolbox. Let’s get this bill across the finish line.”

    “Make no mistake: gun violence is preventable. Republicans actively choose to watch children, mothers, fathers, and Americans gunned down in deference to the gun lobby,” said Representative Strickland. “We must root out the gun violence crisis in our nation. This legislation will simply treat gun violence as the public health crisis it is, and allow us to research it so we can take steps toward saving lives.”

    Cosponsors of the Gun Violence Prevention Research Act include Senators Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Angus King (I-Maine), Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), John Fetterman (D-Penn.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisc.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Richard Durbin (D-Ill.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), and Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.).

    The Gun Violence Prevention Research Act is endorsed by Brady, Everytown, March For Our Lives, and Giffords.

    In June 2025, Senator Markey reintroduced five gun violence prevention bills, including the 3D Printed Gun Safety Act, Keeping Gun Dealers Honest Act, Gun Violence Prevention Through Financial Intelligence Act, Making America Safe and Secure (MASS) Act, and Protecting Kids from Gun Marketing Act. This package of bills would significantly decrease the pervasive threat of gun violence across the United States by putting an end to the three-dimensional (3D) printing and distribution of “ghost guns,” strengthen accountability measures for irresponsible gun dealers, help banks detect and report suspicious activity related to mass shootings, establish rules that prohibit the marketing of firearms to children, and strengthen state-by-state gun-licensing regulations through federal incentives.

    In April 2025, Senator Markey and Representative Dwight Evans (PA-03) introduced the Resources for Victims of Gun Violence Act, legislation that would help all victims of gun violence—from survivors to their loved ones, coworkers, and classmates—identify and access resources to help meet medical, legal, financial, and other needs.

    Senator Markey first introduced the Gun Violence Prevention Research Act in 2023.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Investing in Accessible On-Demand Transit Across Grey and Bruce Counties

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    Grey and Bruce Counties, Ontario, July 30, 2025 — Residents will benefit from improved accessible transportation services and transit system efficiency after a combined investment of more than $1.4 million from the federal government, Saugeen Mobility and Regional Transit (S.M.A.R.T.) a not-for profit organization which provides day-to-day transportation to the residents of Bruce and Grey counties for residents who have a disability.

    S.M.A.R.T. will receive an investment to purchase four accessible vans, eight accessible cars, and booking software to improve their on-demand transit service. S.M.A.R.T. will also receive funding in partnership with Home and Community Support Services of Grey and Bruce to complete a feasibility study to explore more efficient transit software systems, which will support better service delivery of their services.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cornyn Secures Provisions to Reestablish NADBank Water Infrastructure Fund in Appropriations Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) today celebrated the inclusion of his provisions on the 1944 Water Treaty in the Senate Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill for Fiscal Year 2026 to reestablish the North American Development Bank (NADBank)’s Water Infrastructure Fund and require a report on improving water storage and systems:

    “The South Texas agriculture community has suffered due to Mexico’s refusal to comply with the Water Treaty, and they deserve relief and solutions,” said Sen. Cornyn. “My provisions to reestablish NADBank’s Water Infrastructure Fund and require a water systems report are an important step in the right direction to make Texas whole, and I’m grateful to the committee for including this critical language in the appropriations bill.”

    Background:

    Sen. Cornyn has led the charge in Congress to boost Texas’ water supply and ensure Mexico fulfills its treaty obligations to provide annual deliveries of water to South Texas farmers and ranchers. In addition to successfully securing more than $280 million in emergency assistance for Rio Grande Valley farmers and producers affected by the water shortage, he led a request earlier this year to U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio asking for renewed efforts to push Mexico to comply with the 1944 Water Treaty while also securing Secretary Rubio’s commitment to hold Mexico accountable for delays.

    Last year, Sen. Cornyn sent a letter to NADBank urging for the restoration of their Water Infrastructure Fund, raised alarms after a Rio Grande sugarcane mill closed due to acute water shortages, cosponsored a resolution supporting diplomacy, and sent a letter to then-U.S. Secretary of State Blinken urging the Department to engage on Mexico’s violation of the intent of the treaty. Senator Cornyn also led a letter to the Chairmen and Ranking Members of the House and Senate Appropriations Subcommittees on State and Foreign Operations urging them to withhold designated funds from Mexico until they enter into an agreement with the U.S. to balance the deficit of the water deliveries, which the House Appropriations Committee included in their funding bill.

    Under the Treaty Relating to the Utilization of Waters of the Colorado and Tijuana Rivers and of the Rio Grande, Mexico is obligated to deliver an average of 350,000 acre-feet of water annually over a five-year cycle as its contribution to the Rio Grande’s water supply. However, Mexico has consistently delayed fulfilling its water obligation until the end of the five-year cycle, which hinders South Texas farmers’ ability to plan for and grow crops as well as ranchers’ ability to provide water to livestock. The current cycle ends in October and so far, Mexico has paid less than 700,000 acre-feet of water — less than half of what it owes, according to IBWC data.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: CRTC takes action to help improve access to local news in Yellowknife

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    July 30, 2025—Gatineau—Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC)

    Today, the CRTC approves an application by 506992 N.W.T. Ltd. (Cabin Radio) to operate an English-language commercial FM radio station in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories.

    This decision will help Yellowknife residents have better access to local news and community-focused programming, including Indigenous voices while reflecting the realities and priorities of people in the North in our broadcasting system.

    In February 2025, the CRTC held a two-day public hearing to consider applications to operate a new commercial FM radio station serving the Yellowknife market.

    Cabin Radio’s proposal received strong local support, met the CRTC’s requirements for commercial radio, and was found to better enhance competition and the diversity of voices in the Yellowknife radio market. It also included commitments to diversity, emerging artists, and French-language programming. To maintain market stability, the CRTC approved only one new station and denied Vista’s application, noting concerns about the financial impact of adding two FM stations — an issue raised by both applicants. 

    Cabin Radio’s arrival on the FM band will bring a new voice to Yellowknife’s radio landscape and increase programming diversity.

    Quick facts

    • The CRTC is an independent quasi-judicial tribunal that regulates the Canadian communications sector in the public interest. The CRTC holds public consultations on telecommunications and broadcasting matters and makes decisions based on the public record.
    • Cabin Radio has committed to a comprehensive reflection of the community it serves by fostering local engagement, creating space for Indigenous voices, and delivering high-quality, timely, and relevant news to the Yellowknife community.

    Associated links

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: World Day Against Trafficking in Persons: Joint statement

    “Human trafficking is a horrific crime that robs individuals of their freedom and dignity, and victims are often left with deep emotional and psychological trauma. Alberta’s government is committed to fighting all forms of human trafficking, whether they involve sexual exploitation, forced labour or other forms of coercion and abuse. We recently invested $5.5 million through the Combatting Trafficking in Persons grant to support organizations that assist survivors and raise awareness across Alberta. We are also working closely with the Alberta Centre to End Trafficking in Persons to strengthen our province’s capacity to prevent, identify and respond to human trafficking. We will continue to forge strong partnerships across governments, law enforcement and community organizations to disrupt criminal activity and protect those at risk.”

    Mike Ellis, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Services

    “Coercion, violence and exploitation have no place in Alberta. Our government is committed to eliminating all forms of gender-based violence, including human trafficking, through Building on Our Strengths: Alberta’s 10-Year Strategy to End Gender-Based Violence. Our actions focus on education, prevention and supporting front-line organizations across the province to put an end to gender-based violence in Alberta.”

    Tanya Fir, Minister of Arts, Culture and Status of Women

    “Many Albertans may not realize that human trafficking is happening right here in our province. It could be a neighbour, co-worker, classmate, or even a family member who is being victimized. That’s why Alberta’s government continues to invest in critical supports like women’s shelters, sexual assault centres, and child and youth advocacy centres so survivors of sexual violence and exploitation can access the help they need. By working together to learn how to recognize, report and prevent human trafficking, we can empower survivors and build safer communities for everyone.”

    Searle Turton, Minister of Children and Family Services

    “Human trafficking is happening in our cities, towns and communities, often in plain sight. On
    this World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, we are reminded that behind every statistic is a
    person: someone’s child, friend or loved one, exploited through force, fraud or coercion.
    At the Alberta Centre to End Trafficking in Persons, we’re working across sectors to disrupt
    trafficking networks, support survivors with dignity and care, and prevent future exploitation.
    This year’s global campaign highlights the critical role of law enforcement and the justice system in dismantling trafficking while supporting survivors.”

    Paul Brandt, co-chair, Alberta Centre to End Trafficking in Persons

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Harmonic Radar on Tiny Travelers Means Smarter Crop Protection

    Source: US Agriculture Research Service

    Harmonic Radar on Tiny Travelers Means Smarter Crop Protection

    By: Todd Silver
    Email: Todd.Silver@usda.gov

    With their insatiable hunger for succulent fruits and vegetables, fruit flies from the Tephritidae family are the bane of farmers and consumers alike. But recent ARS findings suggest that wind could play a major factor in surveillance, containment, and eradication of this destructive pest. Advanced technology in tracking the effects of wind dispersal on tiny, winged creatures in the wild promises to refine fruit fly management strategies, identify outbreak sources, and help scientists anticipate their movement, feeding, and mating patterns.

    Several fruit flies from the Tephritidae fruit fly family are invasive to the U.S. and combine to cause millions, and during some seasons billions, in crop losses to American farmers. Beyond direct damage and control costs, if these pests were to become established on the U.S. mainland, they would become major barriers to international trade and prevent U.S. farmers from exporting to many of our trading partners. 

    Tephritid fruit fly with harmonic radar tag attached, marked with yellow fingernail polish.

    The key to managing these pests is to understand their flying behaviors. Matthew Siderhurst recognized and addressed the complexity of tracing flies and deciphering wind-based patterns and now leads a team of scientists at the Daniel K. Inouye U.S. Pacific Basin Agricultural Research Center in Hilo, HI, where their research will empower American farmers to protect their crops and reduce food waste. Groundbreaking research published in Environmental Entomology explains that harmonic radar tagging, initially developed for locating avalanche victims, can be used to study these fly pests. The method uses reflector tags that require no energy source of their own to bounce a signal back to a transceiver to map movement data.  

    Though attaching harmonic radar tags to the fruit flies requires painstaking precision, the mechanism is relatively simplistic: a superelastic 4-centimeter wire is connected to a diode, or one-way current semi-conductor, with an ultraviolet-activated adhesive. Next, electrical connections between the wires and diode contacts are secured with conductive silver paint. Check out the radar tags in this video. 

    Siderhurst said the study’s identification of outbreak patterns could predict environmental fluctuations influencing fruit fly behavior and enable farmers to adapt pest control methods. Contrary to historic consensus, this ARS-led research documented that fruit flies control their flight paths in response to wind cues as opposed to passive wind-driven movement. 

    “Most of us have seen a housefly buzz around a room and that movement appears random, but when we look at fruit flies, we see they show a fairly high degree of directional persistence,” Siderhurst said. “That is, they move in much straighter lines than expected, and individual flies appear to hold to a general heading when moving between trees.” 

    Tephritid fruit flies are about the size of a housefly and damage a wide variety of fruits and vegetables.

    Further field testing with wild flies is warranted because the wind influenced the flies’ flight directionality, especially in movements between trees using lab-reared flies to avoid underestimating the flies’ natural movement abilities and overstate wind’s role in their flight. 

    Siderhurst acknowledged that most of the research thus far has proven the technique’s effectiveness, but work remains to answer further biological questions with the new tool. Further research, he said, will ideally reveal how habitat, vegetation density, and factors such as age, diet, and time of day affect insect flight patterns, with consideration of environmental influences like wind and open landscapes. 

    “Our approach is accessible and cost-effective,” Siderhurst said. “While you need good eyes and a steady hand, this technique is cost-effective and transceivers are available off the shelf, so there’s no need to build anything.” 

    For more information, visit the Daniel K. Inouye U.S. Pacific Basin Agricultural Research Center.

     ### 

    The Agricultural Research Service is the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s chief scientific in-house research agency. Daily, ARS focuses on solutions to agricultural problems affecting America. Each dollar invested in U.S. agricultural research results in $20 of economic impact. USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: CFTC Staff Issues No-Action Letter on SEF Order Book

    Source: US Commodity Futures Trading Commission

    CFTC Staff Issues No-Action Letter on SEF Order Book | CFTC

    /PressRoom/PressReleases/9101-25
    Skip to main content

    July 30, 2025

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Commodity Futures Trading Commission’s Division of Market Oversight today issued a no-action letter stating that it will not recommend the Commission commence an enforcement action against a swap execution facility (SEF) that does not provide a central limit order book as set forth in CFTC Regulation 37.3(a)(2), in connection with swap transactions executed on the SEF that are not subject to the trade execution requirement in Commodity Exchange Act section 2(h)(8).

    -CFTC-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Making it work: Airman brings maintenance grit to medical mission in Suriname

    Source: United States Air Force

    Headline: Making it work: Airman brings maintenance grit to medical mission in Suriname

    Senior Airman Adrese Atkins, a medical administration technician assigned to the 931st Aerospace Medical Squadron, spent most of his days not in scrubs but surrounded by boxes of loose wires, aging equipment, scattered tools and instruction manuals, as he supported a critical component of AMISTAD 2025 few people ever saw.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Publication of CCPC Annual Report 2024

    Source: Government of Ireland – Department of Jobs Enterprise and Innovation

    30th July 2025

    The Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Peter Burke, has welcomed the publication of the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission’s (CCPC) Annual Report for 2024, highlighting the Commission’s vital role in safeguarding consumer rights and promoting fair competition in Irish markets.

    The report outlines a year of significant progress and impact, including: 

    • A 21% increase in merger notifications and a landmark decision to block the proposed acquisition of a car park at Dublin Airport by DAA, protecting consumer choice.
    • Over 178,000 unsafe products removed or prevented from reaching the Irish market.
    • Five successful prosecutions for breaches of consumer protection law, including action against misleading pricing practices.
    • The establishment of new enforcement units, including a Competition Adjudication Unit and a Surveillance Unit, under expanded legislative powers.
    •  A record 1.8 million visits to the CCPC website and 2.7 million views of the CCPC-sponsored RTÉ consumer rights series, The Complaints Bureau.

    Speaking today, Minister Burke said:

    “The CCPC continues to deliver for Irish consumers and businesses by ensuring our markets remain competitive, transparent, and safe. Their work in 2024—from blocking anti-competitive mergers to removing dangerous products and empowering consumers through education—demonstrates the importance of strong, independent enforcement. I particularly welcome the CCPC’s leadership in financial literacy and its commitment to protecting consumers in an increasingly digital economy. As Minister, I look forward to continuing our close collaboration to ensure the CCPC have sufficient powers and resources to effectively advocate for and enforce competition and consumer protection legislation benefitting our economy’s competitiveness and Irish consumers.”

    Minister of State for Trade Promotion, Artificial Intelligence and Digital Transformation, Niamh Smyth, also welcomed the report, stating:

    “The CCPC’s work is fundamental to ensuring that consumers are protected and that businesses operate on a level playing field. I commend the CCPC’s achievements in 2024, particularly its proactive enforcement actions and its focus on emerging challenges in digital markets. As we look to the future, I aim to continue supporting the CCPC in its mission to uphold fairness, transparency, and consumer confidence across the economy”.

    The Annual Report also marks the CCPC’s 10th anniversary, reflecting on a decade of progress and outlining its evolving role in areas such as digital markets, data governance, and sustainability.

    The full report is available at www.ccpc.ie.

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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Wars that annihilate peoples and the “Tranquillitas Ordinis” of Saint Augustine

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Wednesday, 30 July 2025

    VaticanMedia

    by Cardinal Dominique Joseph Mathieu OFMConv*Tehran (Agenzia Fides) – More than a month has passed since the ceasefire came into effect, and we are still far from a peace agreement. Everything suggests that, instead of considering negotiations, the parties involved have turned to their own arms suppliers to stock up and prepare for new hostilities.Upon leaving Castel Gandolfo on July 22, Pope Leo addressed journalists and said: “We must encourage everyone to abandon their weapons, as well as the money hidden behind every war.”Analysts who until recently spoke globally of a new Cold War climate are now evoking a Third World War. Unlike the Second World War, this is no longer about territorial conquests based on ideology, but rather about interference in foreign territories with the aim of destabilizing existing regimes.We have moved from a bipolar world—West/Soviet Union—to a monopolized world, dominated by the hegemony of the so-called “free world” in the face of a malignant threat. Today, we are evolving toward a multipolar world, with emerging powers such as those of the BRICS. The world order is, therefore, undergoing a transformation.Israel and Iran accuse each other of being at risk of annihilation. One attacks Jewish Zionism, which oppresses Muslim Palestinians; the other attacks the mullahs’ regime, which threatens Israel’s very existence with its nuclear program. The main source of conflict lies in the ideology that demonizes the other and its supposed ambitions.It is the populations, criminalized by hostile propaganda, who pay the price. Not a day goes by without reports of the deaths of so-called collateral victims.To minimize the impact of this violence, some invoke statistics showing that, unlike in previous wars, the percentage of civilian casualties is lower than in the past, in order to affirm the supposed morality of their armies. Others emphasize the right to reciprocity. These discourses fuel questions about the right to defense and the proportionality of the response.Differentiated deterrence—the supposed monopoly of nuclear weapons on the one hand and the right to defense on the other—does not aim to bring the two sides closer together. Likewise, a premeditated preventive war, justified by a supposedly imminent threat, which could unilaterally impose peace through capitulation or the overthrow of the regime, is not a solution. State terrorism, with its infiltration, violence, or support for certain countries, parties, or ethnic groups, does not lead to peace.In reality, peoples desire to live in peace. But their leaders are mired in enmities that only know the language of weapons. Since 1979, Iran and Israel have no longer had diplomatic relations and remain in a state of tension. For 46 years, there have been no attempts at rapprochement, reconciliation, or peace processes.At the international level, a notable agreement was the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), which provided for concessions on Iran’s nuclear ambitions, limited exclusively to civilian use, in exchange for sanctions relief. Iranian officials have not ruled out resuming this agreement, but only if it is fair, in a win-win context.The Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) not only prohibits new nations from acquiring nuclear weapons, but also dismantles those that already possess them. States that still possess nuclear arsenals, while maintaining and modernizing them, now avoid referring to them as arsenals, preferring the term “deterrents.”Dag Hammarskjöld’s quote, “The UN was not created to take us to heaven, but to save us from hell,” reminds us that when universal charters are codified, the goal is to prevent conflicts and catastrophes to avoid the worst for humanity.As Immanuel Kant wrote after the Napoleonic Wars in his essay “Toward Perpetual Peace” (Zum ewigen Frieden, 1795): “The state of peace between men living side by side is not a state of nature […]; therefore, the state of peace must be established.” To address the emergencies of the 21st century, Jeffrey Sachs asserts that “the path to peace lies in shared solutions to common problems—climate change, pandemics, poverty—and not in military domination” (Address at the Global Solutions Summit, Berlin, 2021).Just as conflicts affect the world order, peace must be a common interest, not subject to the veto of a few.In “The City of God,” Saint Augustine defines peace as the “tranquility of order” (tranquillitas ordinis). He distinguishes two levels: earthly peace (relative, which Saint Thomas Aquinas defines as “temporary”), as a necessary means for social life to avoid chaos – especially through treaties – and divine peace (absolute and, according to Aquinas, “spiritual”), which constitutes the ultimate goal of humanity and requires spiritual conversion.Jesus, shortly before his passion, reminds us that peace is a gift from God in John 14:27: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you.” Even in suffering and persecution, this peace endures, because it is interior. It comes from union with God. Earthly peace is a reflection and fruit of Christ’s peace.As members of the Church, which, following in Christ’s footsteps, promotes human dignity, justice, and peace, we must be impartial, giving to Caesar what is Caesar’s and to God what is God’s.We must work for peace between the parties, not for the victory of one of them (cf. 2 Cor 5:18), loving the oppressor and the oppressed, without justifying injustice (Jn 3:16). Christians are called to “hate evil” (Rom 12:9) but to “bless its enemies” (Mt 5:44).As peoples of the world, we are all children of God, created in his image. Jews, Christians, Muslims, children of Abraham, have a moral duty to respect one another as brothers and sisters, children of the same Father. Why would we want to fight against the uniqueness of others? Since we turned our weapons against our fellow human beings, these brothers and sisters have lost their value, becoming annihilated enemies. And the consequences affect not only the enemy, but the entire world.The Holy See, in its diplomatic work for peace and reconciliation, explores every possibility to offer a framework for fair negotiations. The universal Church and the local Churches are, as far as possible, instruments of peace and charity, close to all, especially the most vulnerable, without discrimination, and always at their side in prayer. This is an expression of Christian charity and a response to the Gospel call to love one’s neighbor.Pray for the victims: This means asking God to inspire leaders to seek peaceful solutions and avoid war, which can no longer be considered a solution, as its ever-increasing risks outweigh its supposed benefits.The 2025 document Antiqua et Nova reiterates that peace cannot be achieved by force alone, but must be built through patient diplomacy, the active promotion of justice, solidarity, integral human development, and respect for human dignity.Pope Benedict XVI also emphasized in 2006, on the occasion of the 39th World Day of Peace, that peace is a divine gift that demands the responsibility to conform human history to divine order, and that failure to comply with the universal moral law and fundamental human rights prevents the realization of peace. The wounds of Christ are open in today’s world. The risen Jesus, emerging from the tomb, burst into the Upper Room and showed them to the frightened disciples who had locked themselves inside. Now they invite us to open our doors to testify to the world that darkness does not have the last word. (Agenzia Fides, 30/7/2025)*Archbishop of Tehran-Isfahan
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Cosponsors Sanders’ Resolutions to Block Certain Offensive Weapons Sales to Israel 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) has cosponsored U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders’ (I-Vt.) Joint Resolutions of Disapproval (JRD) to block the sales of certain offensive weapons to Israel. The JRDs would prohibit the U.S.-financed sale of $675 million for bombs and guidance kits, plus 20,000 fully automatic assault rifles to Israel. The Senate is expected to vote on the JRDs tonight.  
    “The Israeli-inflicted starvation of Palestinians in Gaza must end. This bombing campaign, which has killed and wounded tens of thousands of people and destroyed Gaza, must end. We cannot continue to be complicit. History will judge us for not standing up against this humanitarian catastrophe and these war crimes,” said Senator Welch. “The United States needs to say: Enough.” 
    Yesterday, Senator Welch spoke on the Senate floor about the ongoing humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, and the need for the United States Senate to take immediate action. He condemned Hamas, pushed for a ceasefire, and demanded the release of the remaining hostages. Senator Welch also rejected the Netanyahu government’s illegal use of starvation as a weapon of war.  
    “We all condemn Hamas. We all want the release of the remaining hostages. But we have to ask ourselves the question: is it at all justifiable that there is a policy that has to be recognized that starvation is being used as a tool of warfare? I reject the legitimacy of that act. It’s a war crime, Mr. President. It’s a war crime to starve a population to get what you want from your enemy, as righteous as your defense against an enemy may be,” Senator Welch said in his remarks… “We cannot separate the current starvation in Gaza from the Netanyahu government’s strategy of forcibly displacing Palestinians from their land.” 
    Watch his remarks here: 

    The text of the JRDs can be found below:    

    S.J.Res.34 – To prohibit the U.S.-taxpayer financed $675.7 million sale of 201 MK 83 1,000-pound bombs; 4,799 BLU-110A/B General Purpose 1,000-pound bombs; 1,500 Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) guidance kits for MK 83 bombs; 3,500 JDAM guidance kits for MK 83 bombs; and related logistics and technical support services. 

    S.J.Res.41 – To prohibit the sale of tens of thousands of fully automatic assault rifles. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Cosponsors Sanders’ Resolutions to Block Certain Offensive Weapons Sales to Israel 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) has cosponsored U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders’ (I-Vt.) Joint Resolutions of Disapproval (JRD) to block the sales of certain offensive weapons to Israel. The JRDs would prohibit the U.S.-financed sale of $675 million for bombs and guidance kits, plus 20,000 fully automatic assault rifles to Israel. The Senate is expected to vote on the JRDs tonight.  
    “The Israeli-inflicted starvation of Palestinians in Gaza must end. This bombing campaign, which has killed and wounded tens of thousands of people and destroyed Gaza, must end. We cannot continue to be complicit. History will judge us for not standing up against this humanitarian catastrophe and these war crimes,” said Senator Welch. “The United States needs to say: Enough.” 
    Yesterday, Senator Welch spoke on the Senate floor about the ongoing humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, and the need for the United States Senate to take immediate action. He condemned Hamas, pushed for a ceasefire, and demanded the release of the remaining hostages. Senator Welch also rejected the Netanyahu government’s illegal use of starvation as a weapon of war.  
    “We all condemn Hamas. We all want the release of the remaining hostages. But we have to ask ourselves the question: is it at all justifiable that there is a policy that has to be recognized that starvation is being used as a tool of warfare? I reject the legitimacy of that act. It’s a war crime, Mr. President. It’s a war crime to starve a population to get what you want from your enemy, as righteous as your defense against an enemy may be,” Senator Welch said in his remarks… “We cannot separate the current starvation in Gaza from the Netanyahu government’s strategy of forcibly displacing Palestinians from their land.” 
    Watch his remarks here: 

    The text of the JRDs can be found below:    

    S.J.Res.34 – To prohibit the U.S.-taxpayer financed $675.7 million sale of 201 MK 83 1,000-pound bombs; 4,799 BLU-110A/B General Purpose 1,000-pound bombs; 1,500 Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) guidance kits for MK 83 bombs; 3,500 JDAM guidance kits for MK 83 bombs; and related logistics and technical support services. 

    S.J.Res.41 – To prohibit the sale of tens of thousands of fully automatic assault rifles. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Ireland joins the Equal Pay International Coalition (EPIC)

    Source: Government of Ireland – Department of Jobs Enterprise and Innovation

    30th July 2025

    Minister of State for Small Business, Retail and Employment Alan Dillon has today announced Ireland’s accession to the Equal Pay International Coalition; a multilateral partnership working to reduce the gender pay gap at global, regional and national levels.

    Minister Dillon made the announcement on the margins of the G20 Labour and Employment Ministerial Meeting, taking place on 30-31 July in George, South Africa.

    Minister Dillon said: 

    “I am proud to announce that Ireland has officially become a member of the Equal Pay International Coalition. This marks a significant step forward in our commitment, as a nation, in ensuring that all individuals, regardless of gender, receive equal pay for work of equal value. Aligned with the vision of the United Nations Agenda for Sustainable Development, the Coalition works to accelerate progress toward this goal, recognising that sustained and collective efforts are needed to close the gender pay gap.” 

    EPIC is a global initiative that brings together governments, employer and worker organisations, academia, civil society and private sector entities to tackle the gender pay gap through coordinated action. It operates at global, regional and national levels, making it the only coalition of its kind to focus on equal pay.  

    Gilbert Houngbo, International Labour Organization (ILO) Director General, said:

    “On behalf of the ILO, I warmly welcome Ireland to the Equal Pay International Coalition. As a co-lead of EPIC, together with UN Women and the OECD, we are pleased to witness the growing momentum behind this global effort to redress pay inequalities. Ireland’s strong legal framework and commitment to social dialogue further strengthen the Coalition. We look forward to Ireland’s active engagement as we work together to advance equal pay for work of equal value everywhere.” 

    Maíra Lacerda, Head of the Special Advisory Office for International Affairs at the Ministry of Labor and Employment of Brazil and Chair of EPIC said: 

    “As the Chair of EPIC, I warmly welcome Ireland to the Coalition. Every new member brings valuable expertise and fresh momentum to our shared mission. Ireland’s longstanding commitment to pay equity and social dialogue strengthens our collective efforts to tackle persistent pay inequalities and promote fairer, more inclusive labour markets. Together, we grow stronger and closer to the goal of equal pay for work of equal value.”

    Minister Dillon went on to say: 

    “As an EPIC member, Ireland will benefit from membership including through access to a wealth of global resources. We will also have the opportunity to exchange best practices with international counterparts and tap into a dynamic network of policy and equality experts. Joining EPIC is a joint initiative between the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment and the Department of Children, Disability and Equality, which leads on gender equality and gender pay gap policy.  This combined approach is designed to maximise the impact of Ireland’s membership of EPIC.” 

    ENDS

    Notes for Editors

    • The Equal Pay International Coalition (EPIC) is led by the International Labour Organization (ILO), UN Women, and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). 
    • It is currently the only multi-stakeholder partnership working to reduce the gender pay gap at global, regional and national levels.
    • The Coalition’s goal is to achieve equal pay for women and men everywhere. EPIC supports governments, employers, workers, and their organisations to make concrete and coordinated progress towards this goal. 
    • The Coalition comprises 67 members, including government entities from 28 countries, international and national employer and worker organisations, international organisations, academia, civil society organisations, as well as the private sector. 
    • The Irish Congress of Trade Unions is a member of the Coalition. 

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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Governments, Partners Mobilizing School Meals Coalition to Equip Youth with Nutrition, Health, Education They Deserve, Deputy Secretary-General Says at Stocktake Event

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI

    Following are UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed’s remarks, as prepared for delivery, at the UN Food Systems Summit+4 Stocktake (UNFSS+4) School Meals Coalition Featured Event:  “Unlocking Sustainable Investments for Home-Grown School Meals”, in Addis Ababa today:

    It is truly inspiring to witness how far the School Meals Coalition has come.  With over 100 Governments working together to expand and improve these strategic programmes, it is now one of the most successful global mobilizations in recent years.

    First, I want to recognize the leadership that has brought us here, especially of the three co-chairs — Brazil, France and Finland — whose early and continued support has been instrumental to the Coalition’s success.

    I also want to commend all Governments in the Coalition that are working resolutely to expand and strengthen their school meal programmes and that have achieved clear and measurable progress since the last Stocktake.

    Today’s speakers are excellent examples.  The progress we witness is being driven by Governments, but they are not walking alone.  Partners across the School Meals Coalition are working hand in hand with Governments to deliver on their national commitments.

    But, why is there so much momentum behind school meals?  Why are so many Governments and partners making this a priority?  Because school meals are more than just a plate of food.  They are a lever to building more inclusive, sustainable food systems, and to equipping the next generation with the health, nutrition and education they deserve to reach their potential.

    To truly pull that lever — to unlock its full power — we must focus on four key priorities.

    First:  Expand coverage and raise collective ambitions.  As we’ve just heard from our distinguished speakers, momentum is building.  Next to our Governments on stage, countries like Rwanda, which has achieved near-universal primary school coverage, and Indonesia, which is scaling up at an unprecedented pace, are showing what’s possible.

    Now, the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty has joined forces with the School Meals Coalition to rally Governments and development partners behind a bold global target:  to reach an additional 150 million children in low- and middle-income countries by 2030, as agreed at the Group of 20 (G20) last year.  This means moving from commitment to delivery with the School Meals Coalition and the Global Alliance working with countries ready to lead the way.

    Second:  Pull the lever — use procurement to transform food systems.  Countries continue to harness the potential of school meal programmes to catalyse food systems transformation, including ambitious targets regarding procurement from smallholder farmers, but we must go further by aligning school-meal menus and procurement with nutrition, sustainability and social goals; by using clean cooking solutions in schools; by reducing food loss and waste; and through food, nutrition and climate education in schools.

    Third:  Integrate school meals into climate finance.  When rooted in sustainability, school meals have enormous potential to advance climate mitigation and adaptationm and to promote biodiversity.  The thirtieth session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP30) in Brazil offers us a chance to move school meals from a climate blind spot to a climate solution. Let’s work to ensure these programmes are included in future Nationally Determined Contributions and embedded in climate financing pipelines where they belong.

    Fourth:  Plug the financing gap.  The Sevilla Commitment, adopted a few weeks ago, calls on all of us to close the gap between ambition and means.  But, with 35 low- and middle-income countries in high risk of or in debt distress, we must explore innovative financing solutions to ensure an economically stable future for those countries– from health taxes and natural resource revenues to debt swaps and Multilateral Development Bank investments.

    We have much to learn from the innovation that has taken place in countries for the last two years since we last met in Rome as reported in the UNFSS+4 Report of the Secretary-General.  Let’s make sure we use the momentum of the Sevilla Commitment to attract the finance that is needed.

    Let me close with a powerful motto from a dear friend and leading advocate, Ndidi Nwuneli of the ONE Campaign.  “Our job is not to scale our work.  It’s to scale what works.”  This is what we see across the School Meals Coalition:  Governments and partners coming together to expand a solution that works.

    So, let’s build on the progress we’ve made — and finish what we started in 2021:  by 2030, every child receiving a healthy, nutritious meal in school.  Let’s feed the future together.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DoIT MOEA AI-Enhanced Vaccines and Anti-Pulmonary Inflammatory Drugs Shine at BIO Asia-Taiwan 2025: Health Maintenance, Prevention, and Treatment-A Triple Strategy for a Resilient and Healthy Taiwan

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    The Department of Industrial Technology (DoIT) of the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) convened three research foundations-ITRI (Industrial Technology Research Institute), FIRDI (Food Industry Research and Development Institute), and the Development Center for Biotechnology (DCB)-to establish the DoIT pavilion, which held its opening ceremony at BIO Asia-Taiwan 2025. The pavilion showcases 12 innovative technological achievements in health maintenance, disease prevention, and treatment, highlighting Taiwan’s capabilities in biomedical research and development while injecting new momentum into the health industry. Key exhibit technologies include the “Smart Processing & Equipment Integration for Plant-Based Drinks,” designed for the elderly; the “Long-Lasting Immunity of CD40 Ligand Ribonucleic Acid Vaccine Adjuvant,” developed to extend vaccine effectiveness; and the “Novel Selective FPR1 Antagonist,” which reduces side effects while improving therapeutic outcomes.

    Senior Technical Specialist of the Department of Industrial Technology (DoIT), Mr. Tai Chien-Cheng , indicated that in the face of global political and economic uncertainties, pharmaceuticals have become essential strategic commodities vital to public well-being and safety. Taiwan’s strengths in research and development (R&D), regulatory frameworks, and manufacturing processes position it as a reliable partner for international pharmaceutical companies. To enhance global integration and expand cooperation, Taiwan should improve collaboration across both upstream and downstream industries, thereby increasing technical density and strengthening global competitiveness. He advocated for DoIT to continue connecting foundational resources and implementing supportive policies for R&D funding and tools to facilitate industrial advancement. The pavilion symbolizes the long-term commitment of research institutions to the “Three-Stage, Five-Level Prevention” framework, linking applications from “precision medicine” to “palliative care,” and showcasing the government’s proactive efforts in realizing the “Healthy Taiwan” policy.

    In addition, several breakthroughs driven by or related to artificial intelligence (AI) are highlighted among the 12 innovative technologies showcased in the pavilion.

    ITRI presents “Tumor-Derived Exosomes Enrichment and Detection Platform”, and “One-Stop Exosome Isolation and Characterization Services”. FIRDI showcases “Intelligent Preparation of Nutritional Beverages” in AI-powered biomedicine research and development.

    ITRI’s “In Vivo Delivery of mRNA Encoding CAR to Macrophages for Solid Tumor Therapy” and “An Eye Drop Product for Dry AMD Treatment”. DCB showcases “Rejuvenating CAR-T Cells Through the Secretion of Antibodies Targeting Immunosuppressive Axis” and “NTSR1-ADC: A Novel Therapeutics for Head and Neck Cancer” for cancer and ophthalmic conditions. These technologies highlight the progress in therapeutic drug development and the emergence of new treatment breakthroughs.

    Additionally, FIRDI contributes its technical expertise through the development of “Plant-based animal fat alternative technology” and “Microorganisms in the Modification of Food Texture and Flavor”. These innovations aim to redefine the texture and quality of plant-based meats, infusing the plant-based industry with dynamic advancements.

    Spokesperson: Ministry of Economic Affairs Department of Industrial Technology (Taiwan) Deputy Director General Chou Chung-Pin
    Telephone:02-23212200 extension 8121
    Email:cbjou@moea.gov.tw

    Contact person:Ministry of Economic Affairs Department of Industrial Technology (Taiwan) Technical Specialist Tai Chien-Cheng
    Telephone:02-23212200 extension 8180
    Email:cctai@moea.gov.tw

    Media contact:Ministry of Economic Affairs Department of Industrial Technology (Taiwan) Researcher
    Telephone:02-23212200 extension 8155,0910-660322
    Email:yschi@moea.gov.tw

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • Gunman kills four, including police officer, in Manhattan skyscraper, then takes own life

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    A gunman opened fire on Monday inside a Midtown Manhattan skyscraper housing NFL headquarters and offices of several financial firms, including Blackstone, killing four people before fatally shooting himself, New York City officials said.

    One of the four victims slain in the gun violence was a 36-year-old New York Police Department officer who had been on the force for about 3 1/2 years. The three others killed by the suspect were civilians.

    New York Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said the gunman, who resided in Las Vegas and drove cross-country to New York in recent days, fatally shot himself in the chest at the end of his shooting spree.

    Tisch said the gunman was believed to have acted alone, and investigators had yet to determine a possible motive for the shooting.

    A photo of the suspect that CNN said was shared by police showing a gunman walking into the building carrying a rifle was published by a number of major news media outlets. Preliminary checks of the suspect’s background did not show a significant criminal history, the report added, citing officials.

    The skyscraper at 345 Park Avenue houses offices of a number of financial institutions, including Blackstone and KPMG, along with the NFL headquarters.

    A large police presence converged on the area around the tower, according to Reuters journalists near the scene.

    “I just saw a lot of commotion and cops and people screaming,” said Russ McGee, a 31-year-old sports bettor who was working out in a gym adjacent to the skyscraper, told Reuters in an interview near the scene.

    The FBI said agents from its New York field office were also responding to provide support at the scene.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI Banking: RBA and APRA Update Their Memorandum of Understanding to Strengthen Cooperation to Support Financial Stability

    Source: Reserve Bank of Australia

    The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) and the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) have today published an updated Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), to further strengthen their cooperation and coordination arrangements in support of financial stability in Australia. The updated MOU sets out the RBA and APRA’s respective roles and responsibilities for contributing to financial stability, as well as arrangements for consultation, liaison and information sharing between the two agencies. The MOU also sets out specific arrangements for coordination between the RBA and APRA in relation to macroprudential policy, liquidity support, payments policy and crisis management.

    Both the RBA and APRA have responsibilities in relation to financial stability in Australia, and it is therefore important that they continue to engage closely with one other. The RBA and APRA also cooperate and coordinate with each other and other regulatory agencies on a multilateral basis through the Council of Financial Regulators. The Council of Financial Regulators has today published an updated Charter.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Tbilisi celebrated the 98th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Liberation Army of China

    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

    Tbilisi, July 29 (Xinhua) — The Chinese Embassy in Georgia held a reception in Tbilisi to mark the 98th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA).

    The event was attended by employees of the Georgian Ministry of Defense, high-ranking government officials, members of parliament, foreign ambassadors, military attachés, as well as representatives of the media, Chinese and Georgian companies and public circles.

    The ceremonial part began with the performance of the national anthems of China and Georgia. The first vice-speaker of the Georgian Parliament, Gia Volski, delivered a congratulatory message on behalf of the country’s legislative body. He noted that China was one of the first countries to recognize Georgia’s independence, stressed the importance of China’s support for Georgia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders, and reaffirmed Georgia’s unwavering commitment to the one-China principle.

    G. Volsky also emphasized the strategic importance of Georgia as a bridge between Europe and Asia and noted the country’s role in the Belt and Road initiative, especially within the framework of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route.

    He recalled the results achieved in bilateral cooperation, including the free trade agreement of 2018, the establishment of a strategic partnership in 2023 and the introduction of a visa-free regime from 2024. According to him, in 2024, trade turnover between Georgia and China exceeded $1.9 billion. The Vice Speaker expressed confidence in the further strengthening of the Georgian-Chinese partnership and thanked the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Georgia Zhou Qian for his contribution to the development of bilateral relations.

    In his speech, Zhou Qian noted that the PLA, created and led by the Communist Party of China, has grown from nothing to become strong in its 98-year history. The army has made invaluable contributions to the liberation of the Chinese people, the construction of a socialist country, the protection of national sovereignty and security, and the maintenance of peace and stability throughout the world, he added.

    The ambassador stressed that China deeply appreciates the contribution of the Georgian people to the victory in the world anti-fascist war. According to the diplomat, China and Georgia are countries with an ancient civilization and a rich historical heritage. China has always supported Georgia in protecting its sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as in striving for sustainable development in accordance with national conditions, Zhou Qian said.

    The Ambassador emphasized that China, as one of the first countries to sign the UN Charter and a permanent member of the Security Council, is ready to continue to actively cooperate with all countries of the world, including Georgia. He expressed readiness to jointly promote the correct view of history, defend the results of the victory in World War II and support the international system, the core of which is the UN. –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: Gugong and National Museum of China in Beijing closed to visitors due to heavy rains

    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 29 (Xinhua) — The Forbidden City and the National Museum of China in Beijing were closed to visitors on Tuesday, reportedly for safety reasons after the capital’s authorities issued a flood alert over heavy rains.

    Both institutions announced that all pre-booked tickets can be returned or exchanged for another date. -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: At least two people were shot in an attack at an office building in New York.

    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

    NEW YORK, July 28 (Xinhua) — At least two people, including a police officer, were injured in an attack at an office building in New York’s Manhattan on Monday, local media reported.

    Police arrived at the scene and urged residents to stay away from the east side of 52nd Street between Park and Lexington Avenues.

    “The situation on the scene is now under control and the lone shooter has been neutralized,” NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch said on social media. –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: B. Netanyahu to present Gaza annexation plan in case Hamas refuses deal – media

    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

    JERUSALEM, July 29 (Xinhua) — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to present a plan to annex part of the Gaza Strip to the country’s security cabinet, the Israeli newspaper Haaretz reported on Monday evening.

    According to her, B. Netanyahu told the ministers that Israel gave Hamas several days to agree on a ceasefire. If it refuses the agreement, Israel will begin to gradually annex parts of the Gaza Strip until the Palestinian movement surrenders, the prime minister added.

    The article notes that B. Netanyahu has chosen this course of action in order to secure the support of the far-right Religious Zionism party, which opposes both the ceasefire and increased humanitarian aid to Gaza. Keeping this party in the coalition is crucial to preventing the collapse of the current government.

    According to media reports, Religious Zionism leader and cabinet member Bezalel Smotrich told his associates that the party is pushing a “good strategic move” and it will soon become clear whether it will be successful.

    Haaretz writes that during his conversations with ministers, B. Netanyahu stated that his plan was approved by the administration of US President Donald Trump.

    Also on Monday, the Prime Minister’s Office said Israel would continue to work with international organizations, as well as the United States and European countries, to ensure that large amounts of humanitarian aid reach the Gaza Strip. “While the situation in Gaza remains difficult and Israel works to ensure that aid reaches the Strip, Hamas is benefiting from attempts to create the impression of a humanitarian crisis,” the office said. -0-

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

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Portugal questions fairness of EU-US trade deal

    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

    LISBON, July 29 (Xinhua) — Portugal has expressed concern over the recently concluded tariff deal between the EU and the United States, calling it a limited improvement that is not in line with genuine free trade principles and comes at a high cost to both sides.

    The country’s Ministry of Economy and Territorial Integrity acknowledged that the agreement, which sets US tariffs on European goods at 15 percent, could provide some predictability. However, “nothing can replace free trade,” and Portugal will continue to actively advocate for the gradual elimination of tariffs and other trade barriers, the ministry stressed.

    The Confederation of Portuguese Businesses (CPB) expressed only “relative relief” at the agreement, noting that the price to be paid was “high for both sides.”

    “When you were expecting a hurricane, you are glad that it is just a normal storm,” said CBP Director General Rafael Alves Rocha. However, he warned that the agreed duties were significantly higher than the current average of around 2.5 percent, representing a setback for exporters and highlighting the asymmetry of the EU and US tariff structures.

    The CPB said the agreement was unbalanced and put European producers at a disadvantage.

    The Portuguese government responded to the potential negative consequences with financial support measures for businesses.

    The Reforcar programme, aimed at protecting companies from adverse trade consequences, was launched in April. To date, 14,000 applications have been submitted for a total of €3.2 billion, of which €2.5 billion has been approved and €1.6 billion has already been spent.

    In addition, a special credit line has been created to support export-oriented small and medium-sized enterprises. The Ministry of Economy received 2.6 thousand applications for 1.3 billion euros, of which 600 million euros were approved.

    The new PT2030 incentive programme has launched a non-repayable grant pipeline to support internationalisation, targeting joint projects and cooperation strategies in foreign markets. The ministry announced that public applications for collective internationalisation initiatives will open on 31 July.

    Despite these supportive measures, Lisbon’s cautious tone and criticism from the business community reflect significant doubts about the long-term benefits of the EU-US trade deal. –0–

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

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: LEADER JEFFRIES STATEMENT ON MASS SHOOTING IN MIDTOWN MANHATTAN

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Hakeem Jeffries (8th District of New York)

    Know Your Immigration Rights

    If you or a loved one encounter immigration enforcement officials, it is essential that you know your rights and have prepared your household for all possible outcomes.

    Ask for a warrant: The Fourth Amendment of the Constitution protects you from unreasonable search and seizure. You do not have to open your door until you see a valid warrant to enter your home or search your belongings.

    Your right to remain silent: The Fifth Amendment protects your right to remain silent and not incriminate yourself. You are not required to share any personal information such as your place of birth, immigration status or criminal history.

    Always consult an attorney: You have a right to speak with an attorney. You do not have to sign anything or hand officials any documents without speaking to an attorney. Try to identify and consult one in advance.

    The New York City Office of Civil Justice and the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs (MOIA) support a variety of free immigration legal services through local nonprofit legal organizations. To access these resources, dial 311 and say “Action NYC,” call the MOIA Immigration Legal Support Hotline at 800-354-0365 Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. or visit MOIA’s website.

    Learn more here: KNOW YOUR IMMIGRATION RIGHTS  – Congressman Hakeem Jeffries

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Delaware County Man Arrested for Sexual Exploitation of a Child

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Brent G. Trimbell had Been Released from State Pretrial Custody on Rape and Aggravated Sexual Abuse Charges Before Being Charged Federally

    SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Brent G. Trimbell, age 44, of Delaware County was arrested Sunday evening and had his initial appearance today on a charge of sexual exploitation of a child. Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Craig L. Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), made the announcement.

    The complaint alleges that Trimbell exchanged sexually explicit messages with a female child victim, including messages persuading her to create and send him videos of her engaged in sexually explicit conduct. The child created the content Trimbell requested and sent it to him over social media. The complaint also alleges that Trimbell had sexual contact with the victim on at least three occasions and sent the victim videos depicting him masturbating.

    Trimbell was first charged by state authorities with state sex offenses related to the foregoing conduct, but late last week he was released on bail.

    If convicted of sexual exploitation of a child, Trimbell faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 30 years and a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 15 years, a term of supervised release of at least five years and up to life, a fine of $250,000, forfeiture of property used to commit the offense, and restitution to the victim. Trimbell also would be required to register as a sex offender.

    Acting U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated: “Trimbell was charged with serious state sex offenses but was released on bail. Now, Trimbell is in federal custody—facing serious federal offenses—which if convicted, will result in a mandatory term of imprisonment of 15 years.  This is how we keep the children in our community safe.”

    FBI Special Agent in Charge Craig L. Tremaroli stated: “FBI Albany is incredibly thankful for the swift coordination from our partners at the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office and United States Attorney’s Office that has now resulted in serious federal charges against Mr. Trimbell. The FBI, together with our law enforcement partners, will continue to coordinate with our state and local partners to share the information and resources needed to ensure anyone hurting our most vulnerable is investigated and brought to justice.”

    Following the initial appearance, Trimbell was remanded to the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending further proceedings.

    The charges in the indictment are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael D. Gadarian is prosecuting the case as part of Project Safe Childhood.

    Project Safe Childhood is a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Concern for welfare – Alice Springs Region

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force holds concerns for the welfare of 26-year-old Gach, who was last seen leaving his home in Alice Springs yesterday afternoon at 3:30pm.

    Gach last spoke to family later in the day at 5:30pm via phone, however he failed to attend work for a rostered shift that night.

    Gach was driving his red Mazda CX5 with NT registration CG05CH, which was located this morning by police 14.5km west of John Flynn’s Grave Historical Reserve on Larapinta Drive.

    He is described as being of Sudanese appearance, with dark skin and a slim build. He was last seen wearing cream tracksuit pants, a black t-shirt and black shoes.

    Police are urging anyone who may have been travelling along Larapinta Drive between 5:30pm Monday 28 July and 8:00am this morning that may have seen Gach or his vehicle, or has dash cam footage, to please contact police on 131 444 and quote reference number NTP2500075979.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Desert-to-Power: SEFA commits €6 million to Dédougou Solar Project in Burkina Faso

    Source: African Development Bank Group
    The Sustainable Energy Fund for Africa (SEFA), managed by the African Development Bank, has committed a €6 million concessional finance package for the development of the 18 MW Dédougou Solar Power Plant in Burkina Faso, marking a significant milestone towards increasing the country’s energy generation capacity.

    MIL OSI Economics –