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Category: DJF

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Land Registry releases statistics for first half of 2025

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    The Land Registry today (July 4) released its statistics for the first half of 2025.
     
    Land registration    
    ——————-
    * The number of sale and purchase agreements for all building units received for registration for the first half of 2025 was 36 848 (+12.0 per cent compared with the second half of 2024 and +5.0 per cent compared with the first half of 2024).
     
    * The total consideration for these agreements for the first half of 2025 was $277.03 billion (+9.4 per cent compared with the second half of 2024 but -1.4 per cent compared with the first half of 2024).
     
    * The number of assignments of building units for the first half of 2025 was 46 150 (+5.7 per cent compared with the second half of 2024 and +30.3 per cent compared with the first half of 2024).
     
    * The total consideration for these assignments for the first half of 2025 was $283.12 billion (+4.2 per cent compared with the second half of 2024 and +32.5 per cent compared with the first half of 2024).
     
    Land search    
    ————-
    * The number of searches of land registers made by the public for the first half of 2025 was 2 247 438 (-0.2 per cent compared with the second half of 2024 but +3.5 per cent compared with the first half of 2024).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    July 4, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Land Registry releases statistics for first half of 2025

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    The Land Registry today (July 4) released its statistics for the first half of 2025.
     
    Land registration    
    ——————-
    * The number of sale and purchase agreements for all building units received for registration for the first half of 2025 was 36 848 (+12.0 per cent compared with the second half of 2024 and +5.0 per cent compared with the first half of 2024).
     
    * The total consideration for these agreements for the first half of 2025 was $277.03 billion (+9.4 per cent compared with the second half of 2024 but -1.4 per cent compared with the first half of 2024).
     
    * The number of assignments of building units for the first half of 2025 was 46 150 (+5.7 per cent compared with the second half of 2024 and +30.3 per cent compared with the first half of 2024).
     
    * The total consideration for these assignments for the first half of 2025 was $283.12 billion (+4.2 per cent compared with the second half of 2024 and +32.5 per cent compared with the first half of 2024).
     
    Land search    
    ————-
    * The number of searches of land registers made by the public for the first half of 2025 was 2 247 438 (-0.2 per cent compared with the second half of 2024 but +3.5 per cent compared with the first half of 2024).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    July 4, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Invest Hong Kong strengthens Web3 and fintech ties between Hong Kong and Japan (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK) has successfully concluded an impactful visit to Japan, deepening business ties between the two places. The delegation’s primary objectives were to promote two-way business opportunities in Web3 and fintech, and to facilitate strategic technology investments that benefit bothplaces.

    From June 30 to July 4, Senior Vice President of Fintech at InvestHK Ms Pauline Fan led a delegation of 16 Hong Kong companies, organisations, universities and a family office to Japan. These included Hong Kong Baptist University, the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology and Web3 Harbour. Meetings and events were held in Osaka and Kyoto together with partners in Japan, including HashPort, Headline Asia, and IVC.

    In Osaka on June 30 and July 1, delegates engaged with key players in innovation and digital transformation. They met with members of the Osaka Prefectural Government, the Osaka Digital Exchange, the Japan External Trade Organization, SBI Corporation, Plug and Play Japan, the NTT West Corporate Innovation Center and more. These meetings facilitated meaningful exchanges and explorations of new business partnerships and investments. The momentum continued in Kyoto from July 2 to 4 at IVS 2025, the largest start-up conference in Japan, organised by Headline Asia and IVC. Industry leaders and emerging start-ups exchanged insights on fundraising, business partnerships, and breakthrough trends in Web3 and more.

    Associate Director-General of Investment Promotion at InvestHK Mr Arnold Lau said “This delegation marks a significant milestone in solidifying the collaboration between Hong Kong and Japan in innovation and technology. With a strong influx of innovative ideas and investment flows between both sides, we are entering a pioneering era where groundbreaking technologies in Web3 and fintech are poised to redefine the future of digital economies.”

    This delegation visit came at a perfect time following the Policy Statement 2.0 on the Development of Digital Assets in Hong Kong, issued by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government on June 26. It reinforces the HKSAR Government’s commitment to establishing Hong Kong as a global hub for innovation in the digital asset (DA) field. The statement introduces the “LEAP” framework: Legal and regulatory streamlining, expanding the suite of tokenised products, advancing use cases and cross-sectoral collaboration, and people and partnership development. It sets out a vision for a trusted and innovative DA ecosystem that prioritises risk management and investor protection, while delivering concrete benefits to the real economy and financial markets.

    “Our dedicated team at InvestHK is ready to support players in the DA ecosystem, connecting prospective DA service providers with banks and professional services to facilitate their business setup and expansion in Hong Kong,” Mr Lau added.

    Two-way business success driving the agenda forward

    Japanese firm Zaiko was the first company to establish a presence in Hong Kong through a similar delegation to Japan in 2024, facilitated by InvestHK. As a key portfolio company of Headline Asia, Zaiko serves as a platform that connects creators directly with people through digital events, video streaming, and data analytics. This inward investment exemplifies the potential for Japanese technology expertise to seamlessly merge with the vibrant economic sectors of Hong Kong, such as creative and event industries.

    Waffo established a Hong Kong office in 2023 as its strategic hub for Asia and immediately joined the 2024 InvestHK Japan delegation. The company uncovered new opportunities and successfully entered the Japanese market by opening representative offices, collaborating with multiple Japanese clients and launching innovative cross-border payment and risk-management solutions. Leveraging Hong Kong as its launch pad, Waffo once again participated in this year’s delegation to further accelerate its growth in Japan.

    The Goldian Group is a diversified conglomerate headquartered in Hong Kong with a strong background in real estate development. In recent years, its family office has strategically pivoted towards the fast-evolving field of digital assets. With the support and facilitation from InvestHK, the Group has gained access to cutting-edge market intelligence, advanced fintech applications and high-potential business opportunities in Hong Kong’s financial ecosystem. Leveraging these advantages, the Goldian Group joined this year’s delegation and formally launched a real estate tokenisation initiative in Japan, marking a key step in cross-border digital asset innovation and regional collaboration.

    With these achievements, InvestHK’s latest delegation clearly illustrates the rising synergy between Hong Kong and Japan’s Web3 and fintech industries, a collaboration that promises a new chapter of ingenuity, growth, and mutual prosperity. As both markets continue to harness innovation and investment, the future looks brighter than ever for such two-way partnerships in the digital economy.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    July 4, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Invest Hong Kong strengthens Web3 and fintech ties between Hong Kong and Japan (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK) has successfully concluded an impactful visit to Japan, deepening business ties between the two places. The delegation’s primary objectives were to promote two-way business opportunities in Web3 and fintech, and to facilitate strategic technology investments that benefit bothplaces.

    From June 30 to July 4, Senior Vice President of Fintech at InvestHK Ms Pauline Fan led a delegation of 16 Hong Kong companies, organisations, universities and a family office to Japan. These included Hong Kong Baptist University, the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology and Web3 Harbour. Meetings and events were held in Osaka and Kyoto together with partners in Japan, including HashPort, Headline Asia, and IVC.

    In Osaka on June 30 and July 1, delegates engaged with key players in innovation and digital transformation. They met with members of the Osaka Prefectural Government, the Osaka Digital Exchange, the Japan External Trade Organization, SBI Corporation, Plug and Play Japan, the NTT West Corporate Innovation Center and more. These meetings facilitated meaningful exchanges and explorations of new business partnerships and investments. The momentum continued in Kyoto from July 2 to 4 at IVS 2025, the largest start-up conference in Japan, organised by Headline Asia and IVC. Industry leaders and emerging start-ups exchanged insights on fundraising, business partnerships, and breakthrough trends in Web3 and more.

    Associate Director-General of Investment Promotion at InvestHK Mr Arnold Lau said “This delegation marks a significant milestone in solidifying the collaboration between Hong Kong and Japan in innovation and technology. With a strong influx of innovative ideas and investment flows between both sides, we are entering a pioneering era where groundbreaking technologies in Web3 and fintech are poised to redefine the future of digital economies.”

    This delegation visit came at a perfect time following the Policy Statement 2.0 on the Development of Digital Assets in Hong Kong, issued by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government on June 26. It reinforces the HKSAR Government’s commitment to establishing Hong Kong as a global hub for innovation in the digital asset (DA) field. The statement introduces the “LEAP” framework: Legal and regulatory streamlining, expanding the suite of tokenised products, advancing use cases and cross-sectoral collaboration, and people and partnership development. It sets out a vision for a trusted and innovative DA ecosystem that prioritises risk management and investor protection, while delivering concrete benefits to the real economy and financial markets.

    “Our dedicated team at InvestHK is ready to support players in the DA ecosystem, connecting prospective DA service providers with banks and professional services to facilitate their business setup and expansion in Hong Kong,” Mr Lau added.

    Two-way business success driving the agenda forward

    Japanese firm Zaiko was the first company to establish a presence in Hong Kong through a similar delegation to Japan in 2024, facilitated by InvestHK. As a key portfolio company of Headline Asia, Zaiko serves as a platform that connects creators directly with people through digital events, video streaming, and data analytics. This inward investment exemplifies the potential for Japanese technology expertise to seamlessly merge with the vibrant economic sectors of Hong Kong, such as creative and event industries.

    Waffo established a Hong Kong office in 2023 as its strategic hub for Asia and immediately joined the 2024 InvestHK Japan delegation. The company uncovered new opportunities and successfully entered the Japanese market by opening representative offices, collaborating with multiple Japanese clients and launching innovative cross-border payment and risk-management solutions. Leveraging Hong Kong as its launch pad, Waffo once again participated in this year’s delegation to further accelerate its growth in Japan.

    The Goldian Group is a diversified conglomerate headquartered in Hong Kong with a strong background in real estate development. In recent years, its family office has strategically pivoted towards the fast-evolving field of digital assets. With the support and facilitation from InvestHK, the Group has gained access to cutting-edge market intelligence, advanced fintech applications and high-potential business opportunities in Hong Kong’s financial ecosystem. Leveraging these advantages, the Goldian Group joined this year’s delegation and formally launched a real estate tokenisation initiative in Japan, marking a key step in cross-border digital asset innovation and regional collaboration.

    With these achievements, InvestHK’s latest delegation clearly illustrates the rising synergy between Hong Kong and Japan’s Web3 and fintech industries, a collaboration that promises a new chapter of ingenuity, growth, and mutual prosperity. As both markets continue to harness innovation and investment, the future looks brighter than ever for such two-way partnerships in the digital economy.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    July 4, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Smart Tips for Buying Textbooks for the New School Year; “Smart Parent Net” Recommendation: 放手不放棄︰成為孩子最堅強的後盾(Chinese version only)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 3

    Summer is approaching. When you receive your children’s textbook lists for the new school year, do you start to worry about buying textbooks? The Education Bureau (EDB) has prepared three smart tips to help you save time, money and hassle when buying textbooks, allowing you to spend more quality time with your children as they prepare for the new school year.Pay close attention to the title, edition and publisher information on the textbook list to avoid buying the wrong items. Textbooks marked as “Reprinted” or “Reprinted with Minor Amendments” generally contain only minor amendments or updates, meaning you may choose new textbooks or second-hand copies of the previous edition, depending on your needs.Buying textbooks collectively through schools can often help you save money. If your children already own learning materials on the textbook list which can still be used, such as dictionaries, atlases, or religious texts, there is no need to repurchase them. If you opt for second-hand textbooks, you only have to buy new supplementary learning materials on the textbook list, such as e-learning accounts, workbooks or worksheets. For details on buying these supplementary materials, you may contact the school, bookstores or publishers.The EDB has been encouraging parents to purchase or pre-order textbooks for their children as early as possible to avoid last-minute rushes. Before purchasing, you may visit the EDB’s Textbook Information webpage (https://www.edb.gov.hk/textbook“Textbook Information” Webpage“Tips for Purchasing Textbooks”e-leaflet (2025 Version)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    July 4, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Secretary for Housing continues Portugal visit to promote development opportunities in GBA (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    The Secretary for Housing, Ms Winnie Ho, continued her visit to Lisbon, Portugal, yesterday (July 3, Lisbon time).

    Ms Ho attended a business luncheon co-organised by the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Development Office under the Constitutional and Mainland Affairs Bureau and the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Brussels to promote the vast opportunities for Portuguese companies arising from the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA), and how Hong Kong can play its important roles as a “super connector” and “super value-adder” between the two places with its unique advantages of having the strong support of the motherland while maintaining unparalleled connectivity with the world. Around 130 participants attended the luncheon, with representatives from over 80 Portuguese enterprises from the construction sector, information technology sector, commercial sector and professional organisations, as well as representatives from 17 relevant Hong Kong enterprises.

    During the luncheon, Ms Ho highlighted that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government has been actively promoting the use of innovative construction technologies to enhance the speed, quantity, quality and efficiency in increasing the supply of affordable housing. Under the Housing•I&T initiative this year, the Housing Bureau (HB) will organise a series of activities to foster exchanges between Hong Kong and other countries and regions in areas such as smart construction, smart estate management, energy saving and green buildings. She encouraged Portuguese enterprises to seize these opportunities and strengthen collaborations with the Mainland and Hong Kong.

    Ms Ho expressed her gratitude in particular to the trade representatives from Hong Kong, including those participating in the construction of public housing, Light Public Housing (LPH) and transitional housing, for attending the luncheon in Lisbon and taking the opportunity to share in person with the participants Hong Kong’s opportunities and advantages in connecting the Mainland and the world. By complying with international standards, stipulating local regulations and harnessing the strengths of the GBA in smart construction, Hong Kong can further advance in its development of Modular Integrated Construction (MiC), the transfer of on-site construction processes to factories and the application of construction robotics. With the expeditious building of LPH and transitional housing, the living conditions and quality of life of people living in inadequate housing can be improved as soon as practicable. The significant housing production target of 308 000 public housing units over the next 10 years also enables the HB and the Hong Kong Housing Authority (HKHA) to promote the adoption of innovative technologies and advance public housing developments in a new era of smart construction.

    Earlier in the day, Ms Ho visited EntreCampos, a local redevelopment project jointly developed by the public and private sectors, comprising social housing for middle-class residents, offices, retail, community facilities and green spaces. The project adopted Building Information Modelling (BIM) during construction. She also visited the new headquarters of an insurance company in the project. The building employs smart technologies and innovative sustainable energy systems to enhance energy efficiency. Ms Ho stated that the HKHA has strived to promote greener and more energy-efficient designs, aiming to attain a “gold” rating or above under BEAM Plus for all new housing developments. The measures include adopting MiC in construction with modules manufactured accurately and effectively in factories, and other innovative technologies such as BIM to facilitate planning throughout the construction process and enhance management, which can save energy, reduce waste and make the construction process more environmentally friendly. To improve energy efficiency, the HKHA has also implemented various green initiatives such as smart lighting control systems, light emitting diode lighting and solar photovoltaic systems. In estate management, the application of the Internet of Things and AI for collecting and analysing data has also enhanced estate management quality and efficiency. She said she looked forward to continued exchanges between Hong Kong and Portugal on innovative construction technologies and green building designs.

    Ms Ho has arrived in Barcelona, Spain, last night and will begin her visit there today (July 4, Barcelona time).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    July 4, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Secretary for Justice to visit Europe

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    The Secretary for Justice, Mr Paul Lam, SC, will depart for Europe tomorrow (July 5) to begin his visit to the Netherlands, France and Italy. He will meet with local senior government officials and leaders of various international organisations to introduce Hong Kong’s latest legal developments, strengthen exchanges and co-operation with all parties, promote Hong Kong’s strengths in legal and dispute resolution services, and explore collaboration on international capacity building.

    During his visit, Mr Lam will attend local seminars organised by the Department of Justice and other exchange sessions. He will deliver speeches to the local legal and business sectors to introduce Hong Kong’s unique advantages in the practice of the common law system under the “one country, two systems” principle, its strategic positioning as an international legal and dispute resolution services centre in the Asia-Pacific region, and its important role as a “super connector” and “super value-adder” between the Mainland and the rest of the world.

    Accompanying Mr Lam on the visit will be the Law Officer (International Law) of the Department of Justice (DoJ), Dr James Ding, the Director of the Hong Kong International Legal Talents Training Office of the DoJ, Dr Yang Ling, and government counsel.

    ​Mr Lam will conclude his visit in Rome, Italy, and return to Hong Kong on the morning of July 13. During his absence, the Deputy Secretary for Justice, Dr Cheung Kwok-kwan, will be the Acting Secretary for Justice.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    July 4, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism begins visit to Paris (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    The Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Miss Rosanna Law, commenced her first official trip to Europe with a visit to Disneyland Paris on the morning of July 3 (Paris time) upon her arrival in Paris, France. There, she gained first-hand insights of the latest developments of Disneyland Paris. During the tour, she shared with the President of Disneyland Paris, Ms Natacha Rafalski, that Hong Kong Disneyland Resort has just launched its 20th-anniversary celebrations, which will bring all-new experiences to visitors. She also noted the shared appeal of both resorts as world-class tourist destinations.

    Afterwards, Miss Law paid a courtesy call on the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People’s Republic of China to the French Republic and the Principality of Monaco, Mr Deng Li. Miss Law expressed her hope to foster closer exchanges between Hong Kong and France, highlighting opportunities for collaboration across various sectors. Mr Deng talked about his views on the significance of Hong Kong as an East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchanges, highlighting that the city should make good use of its uniqueness. He also noted that Hong Kong is a potential market as an art trading centre.

    In the afternoon, Miss Law met with the Secretary General of the Ministry of Culture of France, Mr Luc Allaire. During the meeting, Miss Law underscored Hong Kong’s dedication to fostering cultural exchanges on both the regional and global levels. She emphasised Hong Kong’s role as a dynamic platform for welcoming diverse cultures into its community, while showcasing Chinese culture on the world stage. Miss Law also shared her vision of transforming Hong Kong into a hub for hosting large-scale museum events. Both parties recognised the strong and vibrant cultural ties between Hong Kong and France, spanning areas such as cultural performances, art and museum exhibitions, film production, fashion and design. They expressed a shared enthusiasm for expanding collaboration and reaffirmed their commitment to further deepening cultural connections and partnerships in the future.

    Miss Law will continue her visit to Paris today (July 4, Paris time).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    July 4, 2025
  • Russia pounds Kyiv with largest drone attack, hours after Trump-Putin call

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Russia pummelled Kyiv with the largest drone attack of the war, injuring at least 23 people and damaging buildings across the capital only hours after U.S. President Donald Trump spoke with Russia’s Vladimir Putin, officials said on Friday.

    Air raid sirens, the whine of kamikaze drones and booming detonations reverberated from early evening until dawn as Russia launched what Ukraine’s Air Force said was a total of 539 drones and 11 missiles.

    Residents huddled with families in underground metro stations for shelter. Acrid smoke hung over the city centre.

    President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, who is due to speak to Trump later on Friday about the war and a U.S. pause in some deliveries of air defence missiles, called the attack “deliberately massive and cynical.”

    “Notably, the first air raid alerts in our cities and regions yesterday began to blare almost simultaneously with media reports discussing a phone call between President Trump and Putin,” Zelenskiy said on X.

    “Yet again, Russia is showing it has no intention of ending the war and terror,” he added, calling for increased pressure on Russia and more air defence equipment.

    Kyiv officials said the attack damaged about 40 apartment blocks, passenger railway infrastructure, five schools and kindergartens, cafes and many cars in six of Kyiv’s 10 districts. Poland said the consular section of its embassy was damaged in central Kyiv, adding that staff were unharmed.

    Mayor Vitali Klitschko said on Telegram that fourteen of the injured were hospitalised.

    Ukraine’s state-owned railway Ukrzaliznytsia, the country’s largest carrier, said on Telegram that the attack on Kyiv forced them to divert a number of passenger trains, causing delays.

    Damage was recorded on both sides of the wide Dnipro River bisecting the city and falling drone debris set a medical facility on fire in the leafy Holosiivskyi district, Klitschko said.

    Russian air strikes on Kyiv have intensified in recent weeks and included some of the deadliest assaults of the war on the city of three million people.

    CALL FOR SANCTIONS

    Trump said that the call with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday resulted in no progress at all on efforts to end the war, while the Kremlin reiterated that Moscow would keep pushing to solve the conflict’s “root causes”.

    A decision by Washington earlier this week to halt some shipments of critical weapons to Ukraine prompted warnings by Kyiv that the move would weaken its ability to defend against intensifying airstrikes and battlefield advances.

    On Friday, Zelenskiy called for increased pressure on Moscow to change its “dumb, destructive behavior”.

    “For every such strike against people and human life, they must feel appropriate sanctions and other blows to their economy, their revenues, and their infrastructure,” he said.

    SHELTERED

    Ukraine’s Air Force said that it destroyed 478 of the air weapons Russia launched overnight. However air strikes were recorded in eight locations across the country with nine missiles and 63 drones, it added.

    Social media videos showed people running to seek shelter, firefighters fighting blazes in the dark and ruined buildings with windows and facades blown out.

    Both sides deny targeting civilians in the war that Russia launched with a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Thousands of civilians have died in the conflict, the vast majority of them Ukrainian. Many more soldiers are believed to have died on the frontlines, although neither side releases military casualty figures.

    Late on Thursday, Russian shelling killed five people in and near the eastern Ukrainian city of Pokrovsk, a key target under Russian attack for months, Ukraine said.

    (Reuters)

    July 4, 2025
  • Russia pounds Kyiv with largest drone attack, hours after Trump-Putin call

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Russia pummelled Kyiv with the largest drone attack of the war, injuring at least 23 people and damaging buildings across the capital only hours after U.S. President Donald Trump spoke with Russia’s Vladimir Putin, officials said on Friday.

    Air raid sirens, the whine of kamikaze drones and booming detonations reverberated from early evening until dawn as Russia launched what Ukraine’s Air Force said was a total of 539 drones and 11 missiles.

    Residents huddled with families in underground metro stations for shelter. Acrid smoke hung over the city centre.

    President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, who is due to speak to Trump later on Friday about the war and a U.S. pause in some deliveries of air defence missiles, called the attack “deliberately massive and cynical.”

    “Notably, the first air raid alerts in our cities and regions yesterday began to blare almost simultaneously with media reports discussing a phone call between President Trump and Putin,” Zelenskiy said on X.

    “Yet again, Russia is showing it has no intention of ending the war and terror,” he added, calling for increased pressure on Russia and more air defence equipment.

    Kyiv officials said the attack damaged about 40 apartment blocks, passenger railway infrastructure, five schools and kindergartens, cafes and many cars in six of Kyiv’s 10 districts. Poland said the consular section of its embassy was damaged in central Kyiv, adding that staff were unharmed.

    Mayor Vitali Klitschko said on Telegram that fourteen of the injured were hospitalised.

    Ukraine’s state-owned railway Ukrzaliznytsia, the country’s largest carrier, said on Telegram that the attack on Kyiv forced them to divert a number of passenger trains, causing delays.

    Damage was recorded on both sides of the wide Dnipro River bisecting the city and falling drone debris set a medical facility on fire in the leafy Holosiivskyi district, Klitschko said.

    Russian air strikes on Kyiv have intensified in recent weeks and included some of the deadliest assaults of the war on the city of three million people.

    CALL FOR SANCTIONS

    Trump said that the call with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday resulted in no progress at all on efforts to end the war, while the Kremlin reiterated that Moscow would keep pushing to solve the conflict’s “root causes”.

    A decision by Washington earlier this week to halt some shipments of critical weapons to Ukraine prompted warnings by Kyiv that the move would weaken its ability to defend against intensifying airstrikes and battlefield advances.

    On Friday, Zelenskiy called for increased pressure on Moscow to change its “dumb, destructive behavior”.

    “For every such strike against people and human life, they must feel appropriate sanctions and other blows to their economy, their revenues, and their infrastructure,” he said.

    SHELTERED

    Ukraine’s Air Force said that it destroyed 478 of the air weapons Russia launched overnight. However air strikes were recorded in eight locations across the country with nine missiles and 63 drones, it added.

    Social media videos showed people running to seek shelter, firefighters fighting blazes in the dark and ruined buildings with windows and facades blown out.

    Both sides deny targeting civilians in the war that Russia launched with a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Thousands of civilians have died in the conflict, the vast majority of them Ukrainian. Many more soldiers are believed to have died on the frontlines, although neither side releases military casualty figures.

    Late on Thursday, Russian shelling killed five people in and near the eastern Ukrainian city of Pokrovsk, a key target under Russian attack for months, Ukraine said.

    (Reuters)

    July 4, 2025
  • Russia pounds Kyiv with largest drone attack, hours after Trump-Putin call

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Russia pummelled Kyiv with the largest drone attack of the war, injuring at least 23 people and damaging buildings across the capital only hours after U.S. President Donald Trump spoke with Russia’s Vladimir Putin, officials said on Friday.

    Air raid sirens, the whine of kamikaze drones and booming detonations reverberated from early evening until dawn as Russia launched what Ukraine’s Air Force said was a total of 539 drones and 11 missiles.

    Residents huddled with families in underground metro stations for shelter. Acrid smoke hung over the city centre.

    President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, who is due to speak to Trump later on Friday about the war and a U.S. pause in some deliveries of air defence missiles, called the attack “deliberately massive and cynical.”

    “Notably, the first air raid alerts in our cities and regions yesterday began to blare almost simultaneously with media reports discussing a phone call between President Trump and Putin,” Zelenskiy said on X.

    “Yet again, Russia is showing it has no intention of ending the war and terror,” he added, calling for increased pressure on Russia and more air defence equipment.

    Kyiv officials said the attack damaged about 40 apartment blocks, passenger railway infrastructure, five schools and kindergartens, cafes and many cars in six of Kyiv’s 10 districts. Poland said the consular section of its embassy was damaged in central Kyiv, adding that staff were unharmed.

    Mayor Vitali Klitschko said on Telegram that fourteen of the injured were hospitalised.

    Ukraine’s state-owned railway Ukrzaliznytsia, the country’s largest carrier, said on Telegram that the attack on Kyiv forced them to divert a number of passenger trains, causing delays.

    Damage was recorded on both sides of the wide Dnipro River bisecting the city and falling drone debris set a medical facility on fire in the leafy Holosiivskyi district, Klitschko said.

    Russian air strikes on Kyiv have intensified in recent weeks and included some of the deadliest assaults of the war on the city of three million people.

    CALL FOR SANCTIONS

    Trump said that the call with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday resulted in no progress at all on efforts to end the war, while the Kremlin reiterated that Moscow would keep pushing to solve the conflict’s “root causes”.

    A decision by Washington earlier this week to halt some shipments of critical weapons to Ukraine prompted warnings by Kyiv that the move would weaken its ability to defend against intensifying airstrikes and battlefield advances.

    On Friday, Zelenskiy called for increased pressure on Moscow to change its “dumb, destructive behavior”.

    “For every such strike against people and human life, they must feel appropriate sanctions and other blows to their economy, their revenues, and their infrastructure,” he said.

    SHELTERED

    Ukraine’s Air Force said that it destroyed 478 of the air weapons Russia launched overnight. However air strikes were recorded in eight locations across the country with nine missiles and 63 drones, it added.

    Social media videos showed people running to seek shelter, firefighters fighting blazes in the dark and ruined buildings with windows and facades blown out.

    Both sides deny targeting civilians in the war that Russia launched with a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Thousands of civilians have died in the conflict, the vast majority of them Ukrainian. Many more soldiers are believed to have died on the frontlines, although neither side releases military casualty figures.

    Late on Thursday, Russian shelling killed five people in and near the eastern Ukrainian city of Pokrovsk, a key target under Russian attack for months, Ukraine said.

    (Reuters)

    July 4, 2025
  • Russia pounds Kyiv with largest drone attack, hours after Trump-Putin call

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Russia pummelled Kyiv with the largest drone attack of the war, injuring at least 23 people and damaging buildings across the capital only hours after U.S. President Donald Trump spoke with Russia’s Vladimir Putin, officials said on Friday.

    Air raid sirens, the whine of kamikaze drones and booming detonations reverberated from early evening until dawn as Russia launched what Ukraine’s Air Force said was a total of 539 drones and 11 missiles.

    Residents huddled with families in underground metro stations for shelter. Acrid smoke hung over the city centre.

    President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, who is due to speak to Trump later on Friday about the war and a U.S. pause in some deliveries of air defence missiles, called the attack “deliberately massive and cynical.”

    “Notably, the first air raid alerts in our cities and regions yesterday began to blare almost simultaneously with media reports discussing a phone call between President Trump and Putin,” Zelenskiy said on X.

    “Yet again, Russia is showing it has no intention of ending the war and terror,” he added, calling for increased pressure on Russia and more air defence equipment.

    Kyiv officials said the attack damaged about 40 apartment blocks, passenger railway infrastructure, five schools and kindergartens, cafes and many cars in six of Kyiv’s 10 districts. Poland said the consular section of its embassy was damaged in central Kyiv, adding that staff were unharmed.

    Mayor Vitali Klitschko said on Telegram that fourteen of the injured were hospitalised.

    Ukraine’s state-owned railway Ukrzaliznytsia, the country’s largest carrier, said on Telegram that the attack on Kyiv forced them to divert a number of passenger trains, causing delays.

    Damage was recorded on both sides of the wide Dnipro River bisecting the city and falling drone debris set a medical facility on fire in the leafy Holosiivskyi district, Klitschko said.

    Russian air strikes on Kyiv have intensified in recent weeks and included some of the deadliest assaults of the war on the city of three million people.

    CALL FOR SANCTIONS

    Trump said that the call with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday resulted in no progress at all on efforts to end the war, while the Kremlin reiterated that Moscow would keep pushing to solve the conflict’s “root causes”.

    A decision by Washington earlier this week to halt some shipments of critical weapons to Ukraine prompted warnings by Kyiv that the move would weaken its ability to defend against intensifying airstrikes and battlefield advances.

    On Friday, Zelenskiy called for increased pressure on Moscow to change its “dumb, destructive behavior”.

    “For every such strike against people and human life, they must feel appropriate sanctions and other blows to their economy, their revenues, and their infrastructure,” he said.

    SHELTERED

    Ukraine’s Air Force said that it destroyed 478 of the air weapons Russia launched overnight. However air strikes were recorded in eight locations across the country with nine missiles and 63 drones, it added.

    Social media videos showed people running to seek shelter, firefighters fighting blazes in the dark and ruined buildings with windows and facades blown out.

    Both sides deny targeting civilians in the war that Russia launched with a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Thousands of civilians have died in the conflict, the vast majority of them Ukrainian. Many more soldiers are believed to have died on the frontlines, although neither side releases military casualty figures.

    Late on Thursday, Russian shelling killed five people in and near the eastern Ukrainian city of Pokrovsk, a key target under Russian attack for months, Ukraine said.

    (Reuters)

    July 4, 2025
  • Russia pounds Kyiv with largest drone attack, hours after Trump-Putin call

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Russia pummelled Kyiv with the largest drone attack of the war, injuring at least 23 people and damaging buildings across the capital only hours after U.S. President Donald Trump spoke with Russia’s Vladimir Putin, officials said on Friday.

    Air raid sirens, the whine of kamikaze drones and booming detonations reverberated from early evening until dawn as Russia launched what Ukraine’s Air Force said was a total of 539 drones and 11 missiles.

    Residents huddled with families in underground metro stations for shelter. Acrid smoke hung over the city centre.

    President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, who is due to speak to Trump later on Friday about the war and a U.S. pause in some deliveries of air defence missiles, called the attack “deliberately massive and cynical.”

    “Notably, the first air raid alerts in our cities and regions yesterday began to blare almost simultaneously with media reports discussing a phone call between President Trump and Putin,” Zelenskiy said on X.

    “Yet again, Russia is showing it has no intention of ending the war and terror,” he added, calling for increased pressure on Russia and more air defence equipment.

    Kyiv officials said the attack damaged about 40 apartment blocks, passenger railway infrastructure, five schools and kindergartens, cafes and many cars in six of Kyiv’s 10 districts. Poland said the consular section of its embassy was damaged in central Kyiv, adding that staff were unharmed.

    Mayor Vitali Klitschko said on Telegram that fourteen of the injured were hospitalised.

    Ukraine’s state-owned railway Ukrzaliznytsia, the country’s largest carrier, said on Telegram that the attack on Kyiv forced them to divert a number of passenger trains, causing delays.

    Damage was recorded on both sides of the wide Dnipro River bisecting the city and falling drone debris set a medical facility on fire in the leafy Holosiivskyi district, Klitschko said.

    Russian air strikes on Kyiv have intensified in recent weeks and included some of the deadliest assaults of the war on the city of three million people.

    CALL FOR SANCTIONS

    Trump said that the call with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday resulted in no progress at all on efforts to end the war, while the Kremlin reiterated that Moscow would keep pushing to solve the conflict’s “root causes”.

    A decision by Washington earlier this week to halt some shipments of critical weapons to Ukraine prompted warnings by Kyiv that the move would weaken its ability to defend against intensifying airstrikes and battlefield advances.

    On Friday, Zelenskiy called for increased pressure on Moscow to change its “dumb, destructive behavior”.

    “For every such strike against people and human life, they must feel appropriate sanctions and other blows to their economy, their revenues, and their infrastructure,” he said.

    SHELTERED

    Ukraine’s Air Force said that it destroyed 478 of the air weapons Russia launched overnight. However air strikes were recorded in eight locations across the country with nine missiles and 63 drones, it added.

    Social media videos showed people running to seek shelter, firefighters fighting blazes in the dark and ruined buildings with windows and facades blown out.

    Both sides deny targeting civilians in the war that Russia launched with a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Thousands of civilians have died in the conflict, the vast majority of them Ukrainian. Many more soldiers are believed to have died on the frontlines, although neither side releases military casualty figures.

    Late on Thursday, Russian shelling killed five people in and near the eastern Ukrainian city of Pokrovsk, a key target under Russian attack for months, Ukraine said.

    (Reuters)

    July 4, 2025
  • Government extends NPS tax benefits to new Unified Pension Scheme

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Finance Ministry on Friday announced that all tax benefits currently available under the National Pension System (NPS) will also be extended to the newly introduced Unified Pension Scheme (UPS).

    The decision aims to make the Unified Pension Scheme more attractive for central government employees, providing parity between the two pension options.

    Introduced earlier this year, the UPS is available to new recruits joining the central government civil services from April 1, 2025. Existing government employees covered under the NPS have also been given a one-time option to switch to the new scheme.

    In March, the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) notified the rules and procedures to operationalise the scheme. With the Finance Ministry’s latest decision, employees choosing UPS will now be entitled to the same tax deductions on contributions and other tax-saving incentives as those opting for the NPS.

    The UPS has been designed to offer a more predictable retirement income by assuring a defined pension. Under the scheme, the government contributes 18.5 per cent of an employee’s basic pay and dearness allowance, while the employee contributes 10 per cent.

    By contrast, the National Pension System, which remains in place for other subscribers, operates as a defined contribution scheme without guaranteed returns.

    The Finance Ministry described the tax parity as an effort to strengthen retirement security for central government staff through “transparent, flexible and tax-efficient options”.

    The PFRDA will continue to oversee both pension schemes. Officials said the move is expected to encourage more employees to exercise their option to switch, and help the government address concerns about old-age income security.

    July 4, 2025
  • Government extends NPS tax benefits to new Unified Pension Scheme

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Finance Ministry on Friday announced that all tax benefits currently available under the National Pension System (NPS) will also be extended to the newly introduced Unified Pension Scheme (UPS).

    The decision aims to make the Unified Pension Scheme more attractive for central government employees, providing parity between the two pension options.

    Introduced earlier this year, the UPS is available to new recruits joining the central government civil services from April 1, 2025. Existing government employees covered under the NPS have also been given a one-time option to switch to the new scheme.

    In March, the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) notified the rules and procedures to operationalise the scheme. With the Finance Ministry’s latest decision, employees choosing UPS will now be entitled to the same tax deductions on contributions and other tax-saving incentives as those opting for the NPS.

    The UPS has been designed to offer a more predictable retirement income by assuring a defined pension. Under the scheme, the government contributes 18.5 per cent of an employee’s basic pay and dearness allowance, while the employee contributes 10 per cent.

    By contrast, the National Pension System, which remains in place for other subscribers, operates as a defined contribution scheme without guaranteed returns.

    The Finance Ministry described the tax parity as an effort to strengthen retirement security for central government staff through “transparent, flexible and tax-efficient options”.

    The PFRDA will continue to oversee both pension schemes. Officials said the move is expected to encourage more employees to exercise their option to switch, and help the government address concerns about old-age income security.

    July 4, 2025
  • Government extends NPS tax benefits to new Unified Pension Scheme

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Finance Ministry on Friday announced that all tax benefits currently available under the National Pension System (NPS) will also be extended to the newly introduced Unified Pension Scheme (UPS).

    The decision aims to make the Unified Pension Scheme more attractive for central government employees, providing parity between the two pension options.

    Introduced earlier this year, the UPS is available to new recruits joining the central government civil services from April 1, 2025. Existing government employees covered under the NPS have also been given a one-time option to switch to the new scheme.

    In March, the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) notified the rules and procedures to operationalise the scheme. With the Finance Ministry’s latest decision, employees choosing UPS will now be entitled to the same tax deductions on contributions and other tax-saving incentives as those opting for the NPS.

    The UPS has been designed to offer a more predictable retirement income by assuring a defined pension. Under the scheme, the government contributes 18.5 per cent of an employee’s basic pay and dearness allowance, while the employee contributes 10 per cent.

    By contrast, the National Pension System, which remains in place for other subscribers, operates as a defined contribution scheme without guaranteed returns.

    The Finance Ministry described the tax parity as an effort to strengthen retirement security for central government staff through “transparent, flexible and tax-efficient options”.

    The PFRDA will continue to oversee both pension schemes. Officials said the move is expected to encourage more employees to exercise their option to switch, and help the government address concerns about old-age income security.

    July 4, 2025
  • Government extends NPS tax benefits to new Unified Pension Scheme

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Finance Ministry on Friday announced that all tax benefits currently available under the National Pension System (NPS) will also be extended to the newly introduced Unified Pension Scheme (UPS).

    The decision aims to make the Unified Pension Scheme more attractive for central government employees, providing parity between the two pension options.

    Introduced earlier this year, the UPS is available to new recruits joining the central government civil services from April 1, 2025. Existing government employees covered under the NPS have also been given a one-time option to switch to the new scheme.

    In March, the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) notified the rules and procedures to operationalise the scheme. With the Finance Ministry’s latest decision, employees choosing UPS will now be entitled to the same tax deductions on contributions and other tax-saving incentives as those opting for the NPS.

    The UPS has been designed to offer a more predictable retirement income by assuring a defined pension. Under the scheme, the government contributes 18.5 per cent of an employee’s basic pay and dearness allowance, while the employee contributes 10 per cent.

    By contrast, the National Pension System, which remains in place for other subscribers, operates as a defined contribution scheme without guaranteed returns.

    The Finance Ministry described the tax parity as an effort to strengthen retirement security for central government staff through “transparent, flexible and tax-efficient options”.

    The PFRDA will continue to oversee both pension schemes. Officials said the move is expected to encourage more employees to exercise their option to switch, and help the government address concerns about old-age income security.

    July 4, 2025
  • Government extends NPS tax benefits to new Unified Pension Scheme

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Finance Ministry on Friday announced that all tax benefits currently available under the National Pension System (NPS) will also be extended to the newly introduced Unified Pension Scheme (UPS).

    The decision aims to make the Unified Pension Scheme more attractive for central government employees, providing parity between the two pension options.

    Introduced earlier this year, the UPS is available to new recruits joining the central government civil services from April 1, 2025. Existing government employees covered under the NPS have also been given a one-time option to switch to the new scheme.

    In March, the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) notified the rules and procedures to operationalise the scheme. With the Finance Ministry’s latest decision, employees choosing UPS will now be entitled to the same tax deductions on contributions and other tax-saving incentives as those opting for the NPS.

    The UPS has been designed to offer a more predictable retirement income by assuring a defined pension. Under the scheme, the government contributes 18.5 per cent of an employee’s basic pay and dearness allowance, while the employee contributes 10 per cent.

    By contrast, the National Pension System, which remains in place for other subscribers, operates as a defined contribution scheme without guaranteed returns.

    The Finance Ministry described the tax parity as an effort to strengthen retirement security for central government staff through “transparent, flexible and tax-efficient options”.

    The PFRDA will continue to oversee both pension schemes. Officials said the move is expected to encourage more employees to exercise their option to switch, and help the government address concerns about old-age income security.

    July 4, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Africa: CPF training workshops in selected high crime areas

    Source: Government of South Africa

    The South African Police Service says it will be undertaking assessments to determine the effectiveness of established Community Safety Forums (CSFs) and Community Policing Forums (CPFs).

    The police will also provide training workshops which will be conducted in selected high crime rate areas to equip CPF members to support policing and crime prevention efforts.

    This is according to Deputy Minister of Police Cassel Mathale who was speaking during the Budget Vote debate on Friday.

    Community Policing Forums were set up to involve all local stakeholders and key organisations in local policing. They meet regularly with the officers in charge of the local police station and discuss problems and solutions to crime in their area.

    Providing an update on the work of the Ministry, the Deputy Minister said the Civilian Secretariat for Police (CSPS) developed the Integrated Crime and Violence Prevention Strategy (ICVPS), which was approved by Cabinet and “remains one of the apex strategic interventions to reduce violence and crime in a holistic approach in all spheres of government”.

    The CSPS has developed the National Policing Policy (NPP), which was approved by Cabinet on 14 May 2025 to address challenges such as inadequate police stations, capacity issues and ensure that infrastructure is based on proper norms and standards.  

    The NPP also makes provisions for creating professional and quality policing; providing efficient and effective policing service delivery; improving legitimacy and trust between communities and the police; building a strong and ethical leadership, management and governance architecture within the SAPS.

    “Honourable members, this is a significant policy shift in the South African Policing landscape.

    “CSPS will also focus on the finalisation of the Policy on Familial DNA Searches (FDS), which gives effect to Section 15M of the Criminal Law (Forensic Procedures) Amendment Act 37 of 2013. The FDS is a forensic technique employed by law enforcement agencies to identify genetic relatedness among DNA profiles in forensic databases.

    “In addition, the CSPS will enhance the monitoring of the Forensic Science Laboratories with a view of ensuring that processing of exhibits is done timeously and challenges are identified on time and resolved efficiently. The effective laboratory services contribute to the quick resolutions of court cases, thus ensuring that victims of crime receive justice,” said Mathale.

    As a legislative and policy wing of the Ministry of Police, the CSPS will introduce two Bills in Parliament in 2025/26 financial year. These are the South African Police Amendment Bill and the Firearms Control Amendment Bill.

    Mathale said the Ministry of Police has entered into partnerships with critical stakeholders to enhance police performance through cooperation agreements with provinces and municipalities – aimed at sharing a vision for safety and security within cities and communities.

    “Various initiatives, programmes and strategies through these agreements will be implemented in the medium term. To date, four provinces and their respective metros have signed the aforesaid cooperation agreements namely; Eastern Cape, Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal and Western Cape.”

    In an effort to contribute to the effective implementation of the National Strategic Plan (NSP) on gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF), the CSPS will continue to conduct the following initiatives:

    –    Monitoring of SAPS compliance to and implementation of the Domestic Violence Act;
    –    Oversight visits over the top 30 police stations with high levels of GBV related crimes (nationally);
    –    Court watching briefs to identify systemic issues that lead to the withdrawal of GBVF related cases – with particular focus on police responsibilities; and
    –    Awareness campaigns involving community and faith-based organisations, institutions of higher learning and other government departments.

    “In order to deliver effectively on the mandate of the CSPS, the department is allocated a total budget of R172 245 million for the 2025/26 financial year. This is an increase of R16.281 million from the adjusted budget of R155.964 million for 2024/25 financial year and includes an inflation adjustment and R9.187 additional funding for Compensation of Employees.

    “This increase is for the filling of the two posts of Deputy Directors-General and their support staff as well as the cost of living adjustment for 2025/26. The micro organisational structure is being reviewed in order to increase capacity in line with the departmental strategy and mandates,” said the Deputy Minister. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

    July 4, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Africa: Austrian State Visit an opportunity to strengthen relations

    Source: Government of South Africa

    The State Visit to South Africa by Austria President Alexander van der Bellen and his delegation presents an opportunity for the two countries to deepen trade and investment relations.

    This according to President Cyril Ramaphosa who welcomed the delegation at the Union Buildings on Friday morning.

    In his opening remarks, President Ramaphosa described the visit as a “new chapter in relations”.

    “Through the bilateral consultations we have maintained cordial relations rooted in mutual respect, shared values and a common commitment to multilateralism. We are also committed to deepening investment and trade between our two countries.

    “South Africa is Austria’s largest economic and trade partner in Africa. Our country accounts for almost a third of Austria’s total exports to the continent. There are more than 70 Austrian companies with subsidiaries or agencies in South Africa across a range of sectors.

    “There is significant potential to deepen investment and trade links in areas such as the green economy, energy, manufacturing, infrastructure development and tourism,” President Ramaphosa said.

    He highlighted the two countries’ commitment to a transition towards low carbon climate economies – noting the European country’s move towards green hydrogen which South Africa is also pursuing.

    “As South Africa strives to achieve energy security through investment in renewable and clean energy, we look forward to expanding our cooperation with Austria.

    “We noted with interest the launch of Austria’s first green hydrogen production facility in 2023. We are eager to share our Green Hydrogen Economy Strategy and explore avenues for cooperation,” he said.

    The global environment

    President Ramaphosa noted that the state visit takes place at a time of “heightened global insecurity, exacerbated by geopolitical tensions, the climate emergency and conflicts in many parts of the world”.

    “These events reinforce the need for multilateralism to remain at the centre of world affairs. They further underscore the need for the urgent reform of the institutions of global governance, including the United Nations Security Council.

    “South Africa and Austria share a common commitment to a world free of conflict and war, where sustainable development is a reality for all,” he said.

    The President reflected on South Africa’s presidency of the Group of 20 (G20) under the theme ‘Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability’.

    “It reflects our commitment to advancing the African Agenda, multilateral cooperation and the interests of all countries and peoples.

    “Austria is a valued partner of South Africa and we look forward to taking this partnership to even greater heights,” President Ramaphosa concluded.

    The state visit will culminate in the South Africa-Austria Business Forum to be held later on Fridaya. – SAnews.gov.za
     

    MIL OSI Africa –

    July 4, 2025
  • MIL-Evening Report: Palestine protesters target NZ businesses ‘complicit’ with Israel’s Gaza genocide

    Asia Pacific Report

    Protesters against the Israeli genocide in Gaza and occupied West Bank targeted three business sites accused of being “complicit” in Aotearoa New Zealand today.

    The Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa’s “End Rocket Lab Genocide Complicity” themed protest picketed Rocket Lab’s New Zealand head office in Mt Wellington.

    Simultaneously, protesters also picketed a site in Warkworth where Rocket Lab equipment is built and Mahia peninsula where satellites are launched.

    In a statement on the PSNA website, it was revealed this week that the advocacy group’s lawyers have prepared a 103-page “indictment” against two business leaders, including the head of Rocket Lab, along with four politicians, including Prime Minister Christopher Luxon.

    They have been referred to the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague for investigation on an accusation of complicity with Israel’s genocide in Gaza.

    Rocket Lab chief executive Sir Peter Beck is one of the six people named in the legal brief.

    “Rocket Lab has recently launched geospatial intelligence satellites for BlackSky Technology,” said PSNA co-chair John Minto in a statement.

    High resolution images
    “These satellites provide high resolution images to Israel which are very likely used to assist with striking civilians in Gaza. Sir Peter has proceeded with these launches in full knowledge of these circumstances”

    A “Genocide Lab” protest against Rocket Lab in Mt Wellington today. Image: PSNA

    “When governments and business leaders can’t even condemn a genocide then civil society groups must act.”

    The other business leader named is Rakon Limited chief executive officer Dr Sinan Altug.

    “Despite vast weapons transfers from the United States to Israel since the beginning of its war on Gaza, Rakon has continued with its longstanding supply of crystal oscillators to US arms manufacturers for use in guided missiles which are then available to Israel for the bombing of Gaza, as well as Lebanon, Syria, Yemen and Iran with consequential massive loss of life,” Minto said.

    “Rakon’s claims that it has no responsibility over how these ‘dual-use’ technologies are used are not credible.”

    Rocket Lab and Rakon have in the past rejected claims over their responsibility.

    Speakers at Mount Wellington included the Green Party spokesperson for foreign affairs Teanau Tuiono; Dr Arama Rata, a researcher and lecturer from Victoria University; and Sam Vincent, the legal team leader for the ICC referral.

    Law academic Professor Jane Kelsey spoke at the Warkworth picket.

    Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, leading international scholars and the UN Special Committee to investigate Israel’s practices have all condemned Israel’s actions as genocide.

    Protesters against Rocket Lab’s alleged complicity with Israel’s genocide in Gaza today. Image: Del Abcede/APR

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    July 4, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Banking: Deaf people can now feel music as future of innovation unveiled at Samsung Solve for Tomorrow competition

    Source: Samsung

     
    LONDON, UK – 4 July – Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. has announced the winners of its fifth annual Solve for Tomorrow competition, which aims to uncover the most promising tech inventions from young people by asking 16-25 year olds to come up with ideas that help solve societal challenges.
     
    The ideas showcased the passion young people have for future innovation and their drive to design a better world – exploring how technology can solve the issues they care about while tackling broader societal challenges. Nottingham based Eseose Okotako (23) of team Athena was announced as the winner in the 18-25 category with their impressive idea, a haptic collar that syncs with any audio to translate music into tailored vibrations, allowing deaf users to feel melody, rhythm and emotion.
     
    Meanwhile, in the 16-18 category, Manchester based trio Daniel Aju (18), Harris Asif (18) and Nahom Ghirmay (18) of team Sanoband were announced in first place following their idea of a device that aims to help individuals with alcohol addiction by detecting cravings early, preventing relapse and supporting long-term recovery.
     
    This year marked the first time the competition shortlisted 100 young people for workshops and mentoring stage, an increase from 24 to 49 teams in total, nearly doubling the number of participants. Samsung also supported every shortlisted young person with Samsung products.
     
    Entries this year ranged from an assistive glove that replaces the lost dexterity within people with immobile hands, to an AI-driven breast health app that syncs with wearables to guide self-exams, track changes, and generate clinician-ready reports. An app, designed by team HeartAware that uses an AI-powered tool on your phone to detect heart risks, also received critical acclaim from the judges.
     
    On top of this, team Zera, who designed a thermoelectric device to ease menopausal symptoms also won the People’s Choice Award – the best of the finalist submissions, which was voted on by over 2,000 people on Samsung’s social channels.
     
    The 100 were shortlisted by a panel of Samsung experts and tech-for-good founders who reviewed submissions from 508 eligible applicants across the country, 49 teams took part in a programme of design thinking, market research and a newly introduced physical and digital prototyping workshop. Throughout the process, they also received mentoring, support and guidance from Samsung colleagues to help bring their ideas to life.
     
    The programme follows statistics released that show nearly two-thirds (60%) of young people across the UK are considering a career in technology. Yet, 96% of respondents believe there are barriers to entering the industry and 65% feel their personal background impacts their ability to harness their creativity through tech.[1] The Solve for Tomorrow programme exists to prove that young people from all walks of life can come up with ideas that can make a difference in the world through the use of technology.
     
    The existing partnerships between Samsung UK and organisations such as InnovateHer and the Social Mobility Foundation are essential to this mission, helping to reach and support young people who aren’t currently in education, employment or training.
     
    The shortlisted ten teams were invited to Samsung’s head offices to showcase their ideas and formally pitch to a panel of Samsung experts and tech entrepreneurs. This was followed by the annual Solve for Tomorrow awards ceremony, where the winners were crowned.
     
    Speaking about this year’s Solve for Tomorrow competition, Soohyun Jessie Park, Head of Corporate Social Responsibility at Samsung Electronics UK, said: “Solve for Tomorrow continues to empower young people to reflect on what truly matters to them whilst simultaneously channelling these passions into tangible action. It’s phenomenal to witness what young people are capable of even within the space of four months on the programme. Their commitment and passion is an inspiration and we’re so excited to support Eseose and team Sanoband to bring their ideas closer to the communities they care about.”
     
    Eseose from team Athena, said: “It was an amazing experience being a part of this year’s Samsung Solve for Tomorrow competition. You don’t need qualifications or a team to enter – just a great idea! The experience has been incredibly valuable and helped with my confidence, and I strongly encourage anyone who is interested to give it a go. I’m glad I did!”
     
    More details on how to enter the next Solve for Tomorrow competition will be announced later this year.
     
    For more information on Solve for Tomorrow visit: https://www.samsung.com/uk/solvefortomorrow/
     
     
    [1] Consumer research was commissioned to 1,000 UK teenagers aged 13-19 between the 4th and 10th October 2024 by OnePoll. Onepoll are members of ESOMAR and comply with the ESOMAR guidelines for online research.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

    July 4, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Millions of leaseholders backed with strengthened rights

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Millions of leaseholders backed with strengthened rights

    Leaseholders to be better protected and more able to challenge excessive service charges to address cost of living concerns

     Millions of leaseholders will receive stronger rights, powers and protections to better challenge extortionate service charges thanks to major reforms to the feudal leasehold system.

    Leaseholders are required to pay a service charge to cover the upkeep of shared areas in their building, however in too many cases they are left facing very unclear and unaffordable fees. 

    By switching on measures in the Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024, almost five million leaseholders in England and Wales will receive the transparency they need to hold their landlords to account and easily challenge these costs. 

    Leaseholders will receive standardised service charge documentation, which will spell out clear and detailed information about how their service charges are calculated and spent. 

    This will make it easier for them to challenge unreasonable bills and potentially save money where expenses are unjustified, with further reforms to stop them having to automatically pay for landlords’ litigation costs even where they have won their case.

    Housing and Planning Minister, Matthew Pennycook said:

    “The cost of living remains a pressing concern for leaseholders and many are struggling financially as a result of high and rising service charges, and other opaque and excessive leasehold costs. 

    “This bold package of reforms will arm leaseholders with greater rights and protections and empower them to challenge poor practice and unreasonable charges and fees – driving up leaseholder living standards as we work to bring the feudal leasehold system to an end as part of our Plan for Change.” 

    Demands for service charges are currently only required by law to include a limited amount of details, which can leave leaseholders in the dark over what services or works make up their bill.

    This can leave leaseholders at risk of being overcharged for poor quality work, or out of pocket for work that has not been carried out in some of the worst cases, on top of existing cost of living pressures.

    The government is today (Friday) pushing ahead to implement these reforms and is consulting over the best way forward to ensure they are robust, workable and protect leaseholders effectively. 

    Queries about service charges accounted for one in three of all enquiries to the Leasehold Advisory Service (LEASE) last year, showing the need for the government to act and drive-up transparency.  

    Further reforms – in addition to measures in the Act – will see the Section 20 ‘major works’ process improved to ensure leaseholders are not hit by one-off, unexpected and very large bills with little or no notice as is the case currently. LEASE will shortly be publishing an insight report into the challenges currently experienced by leaseholders going through this process.  

    Other measures will give leaseholders the power to demand a switch or veto a landlord’s choice of managing agent and introduce mandatory qualifications for the role to stamp out bad practice in line with Lord Best’s 2019 recommendations. This reform will ensure all managing agents have the knowledge and skills they need to do their jobs effectively, and put an end to leaseholders and residential freeholders suffering abuse and poor service.

    These reforms will help drive up living standards in our Plan for Change and complement work to bring the feudal leasehold system to an end and make commonhold the default for new flats, ahead of publication of a draft Leasehold and Commonhold Reform Bill later this year.   

    Key points being consulted on:    

    • Better service charge transparency, including new standardised service charge demand forms, annual reports, service charge accounts and administration charges   
    • Improving buildings insurance transparency, including what information should be provided to leaseholders, so they have assurance they are getting fair value and are better able to challenge any unreasonable insurance charges   
    • Rebalancing the litigation costs regime and removing barriers for leaseholders to challenge their landlord   
    • Reforming the section 20 ‘major works’ procedure that leaseholders must go through when they face large bills for such works   
    • Considering the case for greater protections for leaseholders paying fixed service charges, protections for client money, or improvements to the process for appointing a manager in cases of serious management failure   
    • Opportunities to encourage the provision of information and services digitally to be more accessible and reduce costs, but also ensuring safeguards so that all leaseholders receive the information they need   
    • Introducing mandatory qualifications for managing agents to ensure that all agents have the knowledge and skills they need to provide a good service for leaseholders.

    Notes to editors:   

    • The consultation can be found here: Strengthening leaseholder protections over charges and services: consultation – GOV.UK
    • In 2023-24, leaseholders paid an average service charge of £1,720 per annum for the maintenance of the building and communal areas in addition to their other property costs such as mortgage and utilities. This is the equivalent to an average weekly amount of £33 (EHS, 2023-24)      
    • Queries about service charges account for 1 in 3 of all enquiries (10,319 out of 34,517) to the Leasehold Advisory Service (LEASE, 2024)    
    • The Financial Conduct Authority found an average increase of 125% in insurance charges in blocks of flats between 2016 and 2021. (FCA, 2022)

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    Published 4 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    July 4, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Local schools achieve ‘School of Sanctuary’ status

    Source: City of Plymouth

    Head of KS4 and Assistant Headteacher, Millbay Academy with Councillor Sally Cresswell

    Two local schools have been recognised nationally for their efforts to create a culture of welcome and belonging for children from families seeking asylum and refuge in Plymouth.  

    Mount Street Primary and Millbay Academy are the first schools in the city to gain the national School of Sanctuary accreditation.  

    In each school pupils, parents, staff and governors have worked together, supported by the Plymouth Ethnic Minority Achievement (EMA) Team at the council to create caring communities in which children learn positive messages about equality and diversity.  

    This week, at the EMA Team Hub, hosted by Plymouth Teacher and Schools Alliance, Councillor Sally Cresswell, Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Apprenticeships, presented certificates to the two successful schools, and other schools keen to gain this award, joined the celebration.  

    She said: “We are working hard to make Plymouth a welcoming city, and it is great to see how our schools are going even further by achieving this excellent recognition of Schools of Sanctuary.    

    “We are really keen to encourage more of our schools to get involved.  This acknowledgement and presentation will hopefully create even more interest and awareness.  We know our schools do so much in this area, and this is the opportunity to celebrate that work.  Mount Street Primary and Millbay Academy are true pioneers. 

    Headteacher and Deputy, Mount Street Primary School with Councillor Sally Cresswell

    “It is important that schools provide the very best learning opportunities for the children while they settle in – this is why the council are working with the Schools of Sanctuary to guide schools through the whole process towards accreditation.  

    “I would like to say a huge congratulations to the schools for achieving this award, and for all their hard work.” 

    Matthew Bisco, Senior Deputy Head at Millbay Academy, said: “Millbay Academy are incredibly proud to be recognised for our continuous work in this area.  

    “The School of Sanctuary values are those we live and breathe. I hope that this accreditation gives further confidence to our city’s refugee, asylum seeker and migrant families, demonstrating our commitment to them, and recognising the gift of having such a rich and diverse set of lived experiences within our community.  

    “Congratulations and full gratitude to all the staff, students and parents who are so committed and learn so much from this work together.”

    The Headteacher from Mount Street Primary added: “We are delighted to be re-accredited as a School of Sanctuary. This recognition reflects the values we live by every day of inclusion, compassion and community. It’s a journey we began years ago and one we are committed to continuing.” 

    We hope that many more schools will engage with this project. You can learn more about the School of Sanctuary awards at: https://schools.cityofsanctuary.org/    

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    July 4, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: 34 International Cargo Air Routes Link China’s Xinjiang to the Outside World

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, July 4 (Xinhua) — A cargo air route was launched on Thursday between Urumqi, capital of northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, and the Serbian city of Nis, served by Uzbekistan’s Centrum Air.

    Its Boeing 767-300F aircraft delivered 52.71 tons of goods to Serbia as part of cross-border e-commerce.

    According to the Zhongxinshe News Agency, citing a source in the Xinjiang Airport Group, eight new international cargo airlines were opened in January-June this year, linking Xinjiang with the outside world. The total number of international cargo air routes in Xinjiang has now reached 34. Thanks to this, Urumqi Tianshan International Airport has become a key aviation logistics hub connecting Xinjiang with Central Asia and Europe. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    July 4, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: Jiamusi City to Speed Up Practical Cooperation Between Local Governments of China and Russia

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, July 4 (Xinhua) — Jiamusi City in northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province will speed up practical cooperation between local governments of China and Russia, Mayor Wang Te said during a meeting with a Russian delegation on Thursday.

    According to the website of the Heilongjiang Provincial Government, Wang Tie, on behalf of the Jiamusi City Government, warmly welcomed the Russian delegation. According to him, Jiamusi is currently actively implementing the important agreements between the heads of state of the two countries and actively serves the cause of “selling Chinese goods throughout Russia and buying Russian goods for all of China”, which provides important opportunities and ample space for strengthening cooperation between the two sides.

    He expressed the hope that the two sides would continue to strengthen exchanges between local governments, establish a mechanism for regular meetings with Komsomolsk-on-Amur, Sakhalin Oblast, Vladivostok, Kamchatka Krai and other regions, accelerate practical cooperation, expand the scope and introduce new models of cooperation, and make every effort to promote cooperation in broader areas and at a deeper level.

    The members of the Russian delegation unanimously stated that over the years, a number of fruitful works have been carried out jointly with Jiamusi in the fields of economy, culture, education, sports and tourism. They expressed hope that this meeting will become an opportunity to further deepen exchanges with Jiamusi, actively seek more joint projects, so as to give new strength and new impetus to the development of China-Russia relations.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    July 4, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: The 8th round of China-Germany strategic dialogue on diplomacy and security was held in Berlin

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BERLIN, July 4 (Xinhua) — Good China-Germany relations will not only promote the overall positive development of China-EU relations, but will also be of great significance to global stability and development, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, a member of the Politburo of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and a member of the Politburo of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, said here on Thursday at the 8th round of the China-Germany Strategic Dialogue on Diplomacy and Security, which he co-chaired with German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul.

    Wang Yi recalled that this year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and the EU, and the China-Germany comprehensive strategic partnership has also entered a new decade.

    As the world’s second and third largest economies respectively, China and Germany bear important international responsibilities and are the focus of all parties’ hopes, Wang Yi said. He said the two countries should join hands to reaffirm mutual trust, further strengthen cooperation and further deepen bilateral relations.

    Wang Yi stressed that in the current turbulent international environment, particularly the growing protectionism, anti-globalism and unilateral pressure, China and Germany should strengthen strategic communication and coordination.

    The Chinese foreign minister added that the two countries should bring more certainty to the world based on stable relations between them, jointly uphold and practice multilateralism, uphold the international system with the UN at its core, as well as the international order based on international law and the basic norms governing international relations based on the UN Charter, and be committed to developing a more reliable, stable and predictable comprehensive strategic partnership.

    Wang also mentioned the phone conversation between Chinese President Xi Jinping and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, in which the leaders set the direction and tone for the next stage of China-Germany relations.

    Despite the changing international landscape, Sino-German relations continue to develop steadily. According to Wang Yi, this is mainly due to their approach to each other, which is characterized by mutual respect, finding common ground while maintaining differences, and striving for win-win cooperation. All this is the basis for the stable development of Sino-German relations, the diplomat emphasized.

    China attaches an important place to relations with Germany in its diplomacy and appreciates the positive and rational approach of the new German government to developing relations with China, the Chinese minister said.

    He expressed the hope that the German side will support China’s efforts to achieve complete national reunification just as China unconditionally supported the reunification of Germany, and strictly adhere to the one-China principle.

    As a leading country in the European Union, Germany has made positive efforts to develop China-EU relations. Wang also expressed hope that Germany will continue to play a constructive role in the development of China-EU relations.

    J. Wadephul, in turn, stated that Germany is ready to be a reliable and predictable cooperation partner for China.

    According to him, in the era of crises and various challenges, the two countries need to maintain close contacts and coordination.

    “The two countries have a long history of relations and a solid foundation for partnership,” Wadephul said, adding that Germany and China share consensus on many issues and can properly resolve differences based on mutual respect and a constructive approach.

    According to him, Germany hopes to expand exchanges with China and continuously strengthen bilateral cooperation.

    The German government is firmly committed to the one-China policy, a German diplomat confirmed.

    During the talks, the heads of the foreign policy departments also held an in-depth exchange of views on the Ukrainian crisis, the Iranian nuclear issue, the situation in the Middle East and multilateral strategic coordination. They agreed to intensify contacts and coordination in order to ensure a ceasefire, end conflicts and peacefully resolve disputes. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    July 4, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: Study – Identification of hurdles that companies, especially innovative start-ups, face in the EU justifying the need for a 28th Regime – 04-07-2025

    Source: European Parliament 2

    This in-depth analysis, commissioned by the European Parliament’s Policy Department for Justice, Civil Liberties and Institutional Affairs at the request of the Committee on Legal Affairs, assesses the potential drivers and rationale for a possible 28th Regime as proposed in the Letta Report. The 28th Regime seeks to enable firms who wish to do so to operate under a new business law codified at European level. The intent is to enable firms, especially SMEs and innovative firms, to operate without friction across all EU Member States.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    July 4, 2025
  • Trump says he is willing to let migrant laborers stay on US farms

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    U.S. President Donald Trump said on Thursday he is willing to let migrant laborers stay in the United States if the farmers they work for will vouch for them.

    At a campaign-style speech at the Iowa state fairgrounds, Trump said he is working with the Homeland Security Department to help farmers who depend on migrant laborers for their seasonal needs. He said he will also work with the hotel industry on the issue.

    Trump has been pursuing a hard-line policy on migration and his U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has been leading an effort to deport people who crossed into the United States illegally.

    This has led to some complaints from farmers that their crops are at risk due to a depleted work force.

    “If a farmer is willing to vouch for these people in some way, Kristi, I think we’re going to have to just say that’s going to be good, right?”

    “We don’t want to do it where we take all of the workers off the farms,” he added, speaking in a Midwestern state where farming is a dominant industry.

    (Reuters)

    July 4, 2025
  • Sub Lieutenant Aastha Poonia becomes Indian Navy’s first woman fighter pilot

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    In a landmark moment for gender equality in the armed forces, Sub Lieutenant Aastha Poonia became the first woman fighter pilot of the Indian Navy. She was awarded the prestigious ‘Wings of Gold’ alongside Lieutenant Atul Kumar Dhull during the graduation ceremony of the Second Basic Hawk Conversion Course held at INS Dega, Visakhapatnam on Thursday.

    The ceremony was presided over by Rear Admiral Janak Bevli, Assistant Chief of Naval Staff (Air), who conferred the honours. The Indian Navy described the milestone as “A new chapter in Naval aviation,” celebrating Poonia’s entry into the elite Fighter stream—a domain previously dominated by men.

    “Streaming of SLt Aastha Poonia into the Fighter Stream highlights the Indian Navy’s commitment towards gender inclusivity in Naval Aviation and promoting Nari Shakti, fostering a culture of equality and opportunity,” said the Defence Ministry in a statement.

    The achievement comes amid increasing representation of women in the Indian Armed Forces. During recent press briefings on Operation Sindoor, officers like Colonel Sofiya Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh stood as powerful symbols of women’s growing role in India’s defence landscape.

    (With inputs from IANS)

    July 4, 2025
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