NewzIntel.com

Category: DJF

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Rosanna Law starts visit to France

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Culture, Sports & Tourism Rosanna Law yesterday started the first leg of her visit to France in Paris, by touring Disneyland Paris and meeting French Ministry of Culture Secretary General Luc Allaire.

    Apart from gaining first-hand insights of the theme park’s latest developments during her tour, Miss Law shared with Disneyland Paris President Natacha Rafalski that Hong Kong Disneyland Resort has just launched its 20th-anniversary celebrations, which will bring all-new experiences to visitors.

    This was followed by a courtesy call on Ambassador Extraordinary & Plenipotentiary of the People’s Republic of China to the French Republic and the Principality of Monaco Deng Li.

    Miss Law expressed her hope to foster closer exchanges between Hong Kong and France, highlighting the opportunities for collaboration across various sectors.

    At her afternoon meeting with Mr Allaire, Miss Law underscored Hong Kong’s dedication to fostering cultural exchanges on both the regional and global levels, and shared her vision of transforming the city into a hub for hosting large-scale museum events.

    Both parties expressed a shared enthusiasm for expanding collaboration, and reaffirmed their commitment to further deepening cultural connections and partnerships in the future.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Met officers deployed for safe Pride in London celebrations

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Officers will be deployed across Westminster on Saturday to ensure the Pride in London celebrations can take place safely.

    The Met has been working closely with the event organisers, key partners and the other emergency services for many months in preparation for the event which is expected to see more than a million people head into the capital.

    Deputy Assistant Commissioner Dr Alison Heydari, who is leading the policing operation for Pride in London, said: “The public can expect to see a significant policing presence in central London. Officers are there to ensure everyone taking part in the celebrations can do so in safety and security.

    “Our primary role is to provide a reassuring presence while being able to respond swiftly and effectively to any incidents.

    “Pride is a celebration of the LGBT+ community and those attending should be able to do so free from discrimination, abuse or fear. There will be no tolerance of hate crime – we would urge anyone who is a victim of it to speak to an officer immediately so we can take action.

    “Any of our officers are able to help and support, but we will also have specialist LGBT+ Community Liaison Officers deployed as part of the policing operation to assist where particular expertise is required.

    “The areas around the parade and the various stages will be extremely busy, with Soho in particular likely to be very crowded. Please plan your travel to and from the event in advance, look out for each other and ask for help if you need it.

    “As with any large public event, we would urge people attending to be alert and keep their eyes open. If you see something that doesn’t that look or feel right, please trust your instincts and bring it to the attention of an officer or a steward. In an emergency, always call 999.”

    Pride in London will include a parade and a number of entertainment stages.

    The parade, which will go from Hyde Park Corner to Whitehall Place via Piccadilly, will see hundreds of groups taking part. Among them will be contingents from the emergency services, including the Met, as well as other public bodies.

    The Met contingent will be made up of officers and staff from the Met LGBT+ Network and allies. They will be off-duty and won’t be in uniform. They are not part of the policing operation on the day.

    Seven entertainment stages will be running, at Trafalgar Square, Leicester Square, Golden Square, Soho Square, Dean Street and Victoria Embankment Gardens. Pubs and bars across Westminster will be open as usual and are expected to be very busy.

    Information for anyone planning to come to Pride in London, including maps and details of key timings, is available on the official event website.

    Information on travel options, including live updates on any delays or diversions, can be found on the Transport for London website.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Legislative Council Members and Kwai Tsing District Council members visit proposed lift and pedestrian walkway system between Lai King Hill Road and Lai Cho Road (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Legislative Council Members and Kwai Tsing District Council members visit proposed lift and pedestrian walkway system between Lai King Hill Road and Lai Cho Road  
         The Legislative Council (LegCo) Members and Kwai Tsing District Council (DC) members inspected the proposed lift and pedestrian walkway system between Lai King Hill Road and Lai Cho Road, Kwai Chung today (July 4) to follow up on the issue of enhancing barrier-free facilities in the district, which was raised at the meeting held in LegCo by both sides on May 23 this year.
     
         LegCo Members first received a briefing by representatives of the Highways Department on the plans for the proposed lift and pedestrian walkway system between Lai King Hill Road and Lai Cho Road, including demolition of existing slopes, construction of a covered walkway and a lift tower with two elevators, as well as ancillary environmental beautification and drainage works.
     
         LegCo Members then walked from Lai King Hill Road footbridge to Lai Cho Road to experience walking the long staircase connecting the two locations and inspect the surrounding conditions. Members also exchanged views with Kwai Tsing DC members and representatives of the Administration on the related works. Members urged the Administration to submit the funding proposal for the works as soon as possible, and enhance the speed and efficiency for early completion of the project, so as to facilitate the daily travel of the residents.
     
         Members who participated in the visit were Dr Junius Ho, Dr Chan Han-pan, Dr Lo Wai-kwok, Mr Chan Yung, Ms Joephy Chan and Dr So Cheung-wing.
    Issued at HKT 17:27

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Secretary-General of ASEAN to participate in the 58th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting and Related Meetings in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

    Source: ASEAN

    At the invitation of The Honourable Dato’ Seri Utama Haji Mohamad bin Haji Hasan, Chair of the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in 2025 and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Malaysia, Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, will lead the ASEAN Secretariat delegation to participate in the 58th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, the ASEAN Post Ministerial Conferences, the 26th ASEAN Plus Three Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, the 15th East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, the 32nd ASEAN Regional Forum, and the meeting of the SEANWFZ Commission. The series of meetings hosted by Malaysia, as ASEAN Chair for 2025, will take place in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on 8-11 July 2025, under the theme “Inclusivity and Sustainability.” While in Malaysia, Dr. Kao will hold bilateral meetings with Foreign Ministers from ASEAN Member States and ASEAN’s external partners to exchange views on recent regional and global developments, and to explore new ideas for strengthening and broadening cooperation and partnerships in support of the implementation of ASEAN 2045: Our Shared Future. Dr. Kao is also scheduled to hold an interface with AICHR Representatives on the margins of the 58th AMM and Related Meetings.
    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN to participate in the 58th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting and Related Meetings in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Just one week to go until new city centre cinema opens in Wolverhampton

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    The newly refurbished four-screen venue, inside the historic Grade II-listed Chubb Building, will be showing its first films from Friday 11 July.

    Keep an eye on the Lockworks Cinema website to find out when the first tickets will go on sale.

    Experienced independent commercial operator, PDJ, has converted the 8,000sqft council-owned space from an out-dated two-screen venue to a state-of-the-art facility.

    They have recruited locally for the three permanent and 20 part-time jobs created.

    PDJ already run successful cinemas in Worthing (The Dome Cinema), Kings Lynn (The Majestic Cinema) and Lytham St Annes (Island Cinema), and recently reopened the former Empire Cinemas in Walthamstow (Forest Cinemas) and Sutton Coldfield (Royal Cinema).

    They and the council have made a £2million joint investment in the critical refurbishment and fit-out programme of the Lockworks Cinema and have entered into a 30-year lease.

    The new-look venue is predicted to attract up to 130,000 visitors a year to the city centre at full flow and boost the local economy by half-a-million-pounds annually.

    James Jervis, Director at PDJ Management, said: “We’re incredibly excited to welcome film lovers back to Wolverhampton city centre from next week. We’re just adding the final touches as we prepare for lift-off with the opening of Superman on Friday 11th July.

    “Throughout the summer, we’ll be showing all the major releases – and plenty more besides – so there really will be something for everyone. We’re confident audiences will love what we’ve done with the cinema, and we’re committed to delivering the very best experience for our customers. Follow us on social media and sign up on our website to be the first to know when tickets go on sale next week.”

    Councillor Stephen Simkins, City of Wolverhampton Council Leader, said: “PDJ have delivered an exciting, affordable luxury offer in our city centre that will bring joy to thousands and thousands of movie-goers, young and old.

    “It is all part of a transformation creating new destinations, better public spaces and inner-city living opportunities, coupled to a broader entertainment and events programme, to attract more visitors – helping both existing and new businesses to thrive and grow.”

    Councillor Chris Burden, City of Wolverhampton Council Cabinet Member for City Development, Jobs and Skills, added: “This is a massive investment by the council and PDJ in our city centre that puts Wolverhampton back at the heart of the cultural map.

    “Alongside the new cinema, the city centre has also recently been boosted by the opening of a new leisure hub at the Mander Centre – anchored by Superbowl UK.

    “Working alongside popular venues like the art gallery, Grand Theatre and University of Wolverhampton at The Halls, this will all drive footfall to support local businesses.”

    The council has also worked closely with the Chubb Building landlord, Midlands Industrial Association (MIA), who oversee a range of businesses already within the buildings, on the scheme.

    Andy Munro, Chairman of Midlands Industrial Association said: “Midland Industrial Association are proud to be the landlords of this iconic Wolverhampton building and it is fitting that amongst the many creative businesses who are based at Chubb, the addition of a flagship cinema now forms an integral part of our Chubb community.”

    Check out Lockworks Cinemas on Facebook and @lockworkscinemas on Instagram.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Housing Bill: Recommended Consultation Response

    Source: Scottish Greens

    04 Jul 2025

    You can use this template for your response to the Scottish Government’s Housing Bill consultation. However, personalise your responses if possible to ensure maximum impact. You can email your response to rentcontrolconsultation@gov.scot or you can complete the consultation online.

    Exemptions – properties let below market rent – mid-market rent properties 

    1. Should MMR properties be exempted from the application of rent controls under the Bill? 

    No. Rent Controls should apply equally.  

    Rents across all types of private-rented tenancies have soared, leaving many people in crisis. Exempting any type of property would deprive tenants of the right to live in a home that doesn’t trap them in poverty. Many tenants may not know whether or not their property is a Mid-Market Rent, making a basically fairly simple system excessively complicated. 

    2. We have set out some possible criteria which could be incorporated into a definition of MMR for the purpose of a possible exemption. Do you agree with these criteria? 

    No. I oppose any and all exemptions, but if a MMR exemption is included, it should offer the exemption only to MMRs not charging more than Local Housing Allowance. 

    Exemptions – purpose-built rental housing – build to rent 

    6. Should build to rent properties be exempted from the application of rent controls under the Bill? 

    No. Rent Controls should apply equally. Rents across all types of private-rented tenancies have soared, leaving many people in crisis. Exempting any type of property would deprive tenants of the right to live in a home that doesn’t trap them in poverty. Many tenants may not know whether or not their property is a Build-to-Rent property, making a basically fairly simple system excessively complicated. 

    Other circumstances where exemptions would be appropriate 

    7. Do you agree with the criteria we have set out which could be incorporated into a definition of build to rent for the purpose of a possible exemption? 

    No. I oppose any and all exemptions.  

    But if a BtR exemption is included, “Build-to-Rent” must be classed the same as other rented housing after 2 years and quality improvements must be linked to a point based system that evaluates a property’s quality. 

    Other circumstances where exemptions would be appropriate 

    11. Excluding mid-market rent and build to rent/purpose built private rented accommodation, are there other categories of housing provision that should be exempted from rent controls? 

    No. 

    Modified rent control area restrictions – landlords who charge rent significantly below advertised rate  

    16. Should landlords be able to increase their rent by more than the level of the rent cap at the beginning of a new tenancy, where the previous tenancy was let significantly below market rates? 

    No. This would create an incentive to evict tenants and would again make the system too complicated for tenants and landlords to understand easily. 

    Modified rent control area restrictions – landlords who make improvements to their property 

    18. Should landlords be able to increase rents by more than the level of the rent cap to recover costs, where they have undertaken certain improvements which may enhance the rental value or bring additional benefit to the tenant? 

    No. This would likely be subject to gaming, whereby landlords may make minor changes to justify increases in rent. 

    Again, it would also take away from the simplicity of the current proposed system, which is one of its major advantages. 

    It is difficult to see how such a system would work in practice. Unless there is a flat-rate system, which would lead to the perverse incentives outlined above, there would need to be an excessively complicated system of classing different types of improvement and then linking them to different rent caps. There would then need to be inspections done to check the improvements have been made, which would be a major burden on the Local Authority. Such a system is unlikely to be practicable.  

    20. Are there any other types of improvements that should potentially qualify for this kind of increase above the level of the cap? 

    No 

    Modified rent control area restrictions – other costs a landlord may face 

    24. Are there any other cost increases for rental properties that would justify raising the rent above the level of the rent cap? 

    No. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Video: President Cyril Ramaphosa and President Van der Bellen official talks

    Source: Republic of South Africa (video statements)

    President Cyril Ramaphosa and President Van der Bellen official talks

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QV_u6M0Ci9o

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Become part of the virtual museum of GUU graduates

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    On July 4, on the day of the graduation of the students of the State University of Management, everyone can take a 3D photo for the SUM graduates museum.

    Special equipment is located on the 1st and 8th floors of the academic building.

    There are also themed photo zones on the main square and in the Information Technology Center, a red carpet awaits graduates near the dormitories, and refreshments can be obtained near the Sports Complex.

    The graduation program can be viewed here, as well as on a special TG channel.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Ngāi Tukairangi staff advance Kiwifruit careers through EIT study

    Source: Eastern Institute of Technology

    11 hours ago

    Three staff members from Ngāi Tukairangi Trust are enhancing their careers in the kiwifruit industry by combining hands-on experience with academic study at the Eastern Institute of Technology (EIT).

    Kevin Kooijman, Maria Edmonds and Janiva Singh (Ngāti Kahungunu) have each completed Level 3 of the Horticulture Apprenticeship Programme and are now working towards Level 4. Based at Ngāi Tukairangi’s Hawke’s Bay kiwifruit orchard, they say their study through

    Maria Edmonds (left), Janiva Singh and Kevin Kooijman are progressing through EIT’s Horticulture Apprenticeship Programme while working at Ngāi Tukairangi’s Hawke’s Bay orchard.

    EIT’s Hawke’s Bay campus has given them the knowledge and confidence to grow in the industry.

    Maria joined Ngāi Tukairangi five years ago after almost a decade in the hospitality industry.

    “Horticulture gave me the mum-friendly hours hospitality couldn’t, and I also noticed there weren’t many women in management roles, especially outside of HR. I wanted to change that,” she said.

    Now a Vine Manager overseeing 60 hectares of kiwifruit, Maria praised EIT for adapting its pipfruit-based content to suit their needs.

    “They’ve let us do things from a kiwifruit perspective and even set up kiwifruit bays using plants we provided.”

    With more than a decade of experience in orcharding, Vine Supervisor Kevin was initially hesitant to return to study. But Kevin is now an advocate for upskilling, having discovered how much there still is to learn.

    “I used to think you had to be on the orchard to really learn. But I was surprised by how much I picked up through the course, especially the soil science. Learning the technical terms has made it easier to explain things to my team.”

    He plans to enrol in Level 5 next year and says classroom-based learning has worked well for him.

    “I’d recommend it to anyone, even if you’ve been in the industry 15 years. You don’t know everything. There’s always more to learn.”

    At 24, Janiva is the newest to horticulture of the three. She works as an orchardist at Ngāi Tukairangi and began studying at EIT soon after joining the team.

    “I had no experience with kiwifruit or horticulture. But the study answered a lot of the questions I had out in the field. It made everything click,” she said.

    She said the combination of practical and theoretical learning helped accelerate her understanding and allowed her to step into more responsibility.

    “I want to learn the orchard from the ground up, understand every role, and then work my way into management. That’s the goal.”

    The move into horticulture has also deepened her sense of cultural connection.

    “As a wahine Māori, I believe we have a role to protect our whenua and act as kaitiaki. Working in this industry has helped me live that value.

    It’s been both challenging and rewarding,” she said.

    All three credit their study at EIT and the support of their employer for helping them build skills and grow in confidence.

    “Before I started studying, there didn’t seem to be a lot of room for growth,” Maria said. “Now I know exactly what I need to do, and I’ve been able to take on more and more.”

    Their stories highlight the value of accessible training and supportive workplaces in developing talent across the horticulture sector.

    Ngāi Tukairangi Area Manager Liam Sykes said the EIT programme has been a valuable development pathway for their staff.

    An EIT graduate himself, Sykes said it helped spark his own passion for horticulture and is something he now encourages all staff to take up.

    “We’ve been avid users of the programme since entering the horticulture space in 2017. It gives a broad understanding of the industry, really good tools, and that extra bit of science to understand how we grow fruit,” he said.

    “It also gets their brains firing. It makes them question what we do on orchard, pose questions to our managers, and creates really good discussion points.”

    Liam said there is also a strong sense of achievement among staff, pointing to Kevin as a standout example.

    “Kevin got 100 per cent in one of his classes. He’s super proud of it, and we regularly use it as an example of our guys excelling.”

    Clare Buckner, Program Co-ordinator of the Fruit Production qualifications, says: “EIT is proud to partner with horticultural businesses like

    Ngāi Tukairangi, and we endeavour to have flexibility in our programs to meet industry needs”.

    “It is rewarding to see these efforts being appreciated. We have strong, individual relationships with all our ākonga and their managers, and feel genuinely supported and valued by this essential Hawkes Bay industry.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: All-Russian Congress of Young Scientists: Focus on Technological Leadership

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    At the XIII All-Russian Congress of Councils of Young Scientists and Student Scientific Societies, which is taking place in Ufa, one of the key events was the panel discussion “Youth and Technologies of Tomorrow: Development of New Ideas in Industrial Business”. The moderator was Vice-Rector for Research at SPbPU Yuri Fomin.

    Starting the conversation, Yuri Fomin recalled the definition of technological leadership, which consists of the superiority of technologies and products in key parameters (functional, technical, economic) over foreign analogues. Then, representatives of business and science discussed the moderator’s questions about how technological leadership is achieved and why business needs science.

    Heads of departments of PJSC Rostelecom, JSC Valenta Pharm, JSC UEC, PJSC Aeroflot, and OOO SIBUR Innovations told how they implement science in their companies. The main conclusion is that science is necessary for business, but it does not necessarily have to be within its structure. Then the participants discussed how to attract young scientists to this process and what measures are needed for effective interaction.

    Deputy Director General of the Roscongress Directorate for Scientific and Technological Programs Oleg Karasev spoke about measures of state support for such interaction. Participants named the main qualities that enterprises in various fields need from young scientists: communication skills, experience, energy, a clear goal in research, and focus on the development tasks of a specific business.

    Among the most popular areas discussed by company representatives at the panel discussion were quantum technologies, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, pharmaceutical production, polymer and composite materials, additive technologies and predictive analysis.

    Summing up, Yuri Fomin noted that all companies, regardless of their field of activity, are united by the need to implement artificial intelligence technologies. It is logical to assume that projects using AI will be most in demand, and young scientists need to take this into account.

    The congress included a ceremony to award diplomas to the winners of the competition for grants from the Ministry of Education and Science of the Russian Federation in support of student scientific communities. Among those awarded was Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University. Diplomas were received by the curator of the Student Scientific Society Victoria Brazovskaya, the secretary of the SPbPU SSS Grigory Romanov and the representative of the SSS of the Humanitarian Institute Mikhail Murashko.

    The congress will last until July 4 and has gathered about 1,300 participants from all over Russia, including new regions – the DPR, LPR, Zaporizhzhya and Kherson regions. Representatives from Belarus, China, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Armenia and Kyrgyzstan are also participating in the event.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Rays of Hope Forum: Hope for Africa and Beyond

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency –

    Thanks to support from the IAEA initiative “Rays of Hope” Cancer patients around the world can now more easily receive the life-saving care they need, participants were told at the forum “Rays of Hope”.

    The Rays of Hope initiative aims to increase access to cancer care where it is needed most by helping low- and middle-income countries build and strengthen their capacity in medical imaging, radiotherapy and nuclear medicine. Since its launch in Ethiopia three years ago, more than 90 countries have applied for support.

    “Cancer kills 2,000 people a day in Africa, making it the leading cause of death on the continent,” IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi said Monday at the opening of the forum in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. “Three years ago, we launched the Rays of Hope initiative here at the African Union headquarters. Today, we are helping to bring cancer care to countries where it was previously unavailable.”

    Temesgen Tirune, Deputy Prime Minister, said: “This forum must be a signal to work together. Let it inspire us to strengthen cooperation, increase investment and continue to show solidarity – so that no child dies from curable cancer, no mother has to wait forever for a diagnosis and no country is left behind simply because of its geography or the size of its GDP.”

    The opening of the Rays of Hope forum was also addressed by Ethiopian Health Minister Mekdes Daba Feissa and African Union Chief of Staff Mohamed Al-Amin Suef.

    During the morning sessions, representatives of countries supported by the Rays of Hope initiative shared their experiences. Among them were: the Minister of Health of Benin Benjamin Hunkpatin, Minister of Scientific Research and Technology of the Democratic Republic of the Congo Gilbert Kabanda Kurhenga, Minister of Health of Ethiopia Mekdes Daba Feissa, Minister of Health of Lesotho Selibe Mokhoboroane, Minister of Health and Social Welfare of Senegal Ibrahima Say, Deputy Minister of Health of Botswana Lawrence Ookeditse and Principal Secretary of the Kenyan Ministry of Health Fredrick Uma Oluga.

    The importance of the Rays of Hope initiative was also underscored by the countries that have made contributions to it. The forum was addressed by the German Ambassador to Ethiopia and Permanent Observer to the African Union in Ethiopia Jens Hanefeld, the Permanent Representative of Italy to the African Union and the UN Economic Commission for Africa in Ethiopia Maurizio Busanelli, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to the African Union Tsutomu Nakagawa and the First Counsellor of the French Embassy in Ethiopia and the African Union Julien Voiturier.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • Widespread rainfall predicted across India; peak intensity likely in northwest region on July 6–7

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Friday predicted heavy rainfall activity over northwest and central India over the next seven days, with peak intensity expected in the northwest region on July 6 and 7. Eastern India is also likely to witness significant rainfall until July 7.

    Isolated places in eastern Madhya Pradesh are expected to receive extremely heavy rainfall (more than 21 cm) today, while the ghat areas of central Maharashtra are likely to witness similar intensity on July 6 and 7. Himachal Pradesh may also see extremely heavy showers on July 6.

    Several other regions will experience heavy to very heavy rainfall during this period. These include Jammu, Jharkhand, and western Uttar Pradesh on July 6; Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand from July 5 to 8; Punjab and Haryana on July 6 and 7; and East Rajasthan from July 4 to 6 and again on July 9 and 10.

    Madhya Pradesh is expected to receive heavy rainfall today and tomorrow, with another wet spell from July 8 to 10.

    Other areas including Chhattisgarh, Konkan and Goa, central Maharashtra, and the Gujarat region are likely to see heavy rainfall from July 4 to 8, while Vidarbha may receive showers from July 6 to 8.

    Gangetic West Bengal is expected to receive heavy rainfall on July 5 and 6, and parts of Karnataka, Saurashtra & Kutch, Arunachal Pradesh, and Meghalaya are also likely to be affected on select days.

    Weather forecast for Delhi-NCR

    In Delhi-NCR, weather conditions are expected to remain relatively moderate but unsettled.

    Delhi is likely to witness partly cloudy skies with very light to light rain accompanied by thunderstorms today. Maximum temperatures will range from 36 to 38°C.

    On July 5, light to moderate rain is expected, with temperatures ranging from 35 to 37°C during the day and 26 to 28°C at night.

    July 6 and 7 will see generally cloudy skies and light to moderate rainfall with thunderstorms. Maximum temperatures are likely to dip to 32–35°C, and minimum temperatures may fall to 24–28°C, remaining below normal for this time of year.

  • National Consumer Helpline facilitates ₹7.14 crore refunds in two months

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The National Consumer Helpline (NCH) on Friday enabled refunds worth ₹7.14 crore to consumers across the country in the past two months. The Department of Consumer Affairs said the amount was facilitated through the resolution of 15,426 complaints spanning 30 sectors.

    The NCH, a flagship initiative under the Department of Consumer Affairs, plays a critical role in providing pre-litigation support to consumers under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019. By addressing grievances swiftly and amicably, the helpline eases the burden on the Consumer Commissions.

    According to official data, the e-commerce sector continues to generate the highest number of complaints. Of the total grievances, 8,919 pertained to the e-commerce sector alone, leading to refunds amounting to ₹3.69 crore. The travel and tourism sector followed, with refunds worth ₹81 lakh being facilitated for consumers facing issues related to bookings and cancellations.

    Consumers from states and Union Territories across the country have used the platform, reflecting its wide reach. Uttar Pradesh recorded the highest number of e-commerce complaints at 1,242, but grievances were registered even from smaller regions such as Sikkim and Dadra & Nagar Haveli.

    Officials said the steady increase in the number of grievances reflects the growing outreach of the platform through various digital modes, including calls, the NCH app, the UMANG app, SMS, WhatsApp, email, the web portal, and the Integrated Grievance Redressal Mechanism (INGRAM).

    The helpline acts as a single-window system for consumers to register their grievances at the pre-litigation stage. It is accessible in 17 languages through the toll-free number 1915. In addition, complaints can be submitted online via consumerhelpline.gov.in and through WhatsApp (8800001915), SMS, the NCH app, the UMANG App, and email (nch-ca@gov.in).

    Officials have urged consumers to actively utilise these channels to secure timely and hassle-free redressal and to safeguard their rights as provided under the law.

    Several recent cases highlight the helpline’s effectiveness.

    In West Bengal, a consumer in Kolkata received a refund of ₹8.24 lakh for a cancelled flight ticket after approaching the NCH. Another consumer from Burdwan District secured a refund of ₹1,854 for an undelivered grocery order from an e-commerce platform.

    In Rajasthan, a consumer from Nagpur District was refunded ₹5,799 for a washing machine that could not be returned due to repeated delays.

    In Chhattisgarh, a consumer from Korba District received a refund of ₹1,214 for a toy order that was not delivered, following intervention by the helpline.

    A consumer in Mumbai, Maharashtra, received a refund for missing grocery items within three hours of filing a complaint.

    In Telangana, a consumer from Medak District, who received a three-star refrigerator instead of the ordered five-star model, was refunded ₹17,490 after the helpline’s intervention.

  • MIL-OSI China: China generates over 18% of global GDP with 6% of world’s freshwater

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

    China generates over 18% of global GDP with only 6% of the world’s freshwater resources, keeping its total water consumption under 610 billion cubic meters, an official of the Ministry of Water Resources said at a Friday press conference. The country has improved water use efficiency in agriculture and industry, and expanded the use of unconventional water resources such as reclaimed water.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Foreign diplomats explore trade opportunities in Chongqing’s Pengshui

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

    Pengshui Miao and Tujia autonomous county in southwestern China’s Chongqing welcomed a delegation of foreign diplomats and international representatives from July 2 to 3, as part of an initiative to promote local industries and expand global cooperation.

    A delegation of foreign diplomats and international representatives visits Pengshui Miao and Tujia autonomous county in southwestern China’s Chongqing to learn about the county’s socioeconomic development and find new cooperation opportunities from July 2 to 3, 2025. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]

    The trip was jointly organized by the Foreign Affairs Office of the Chongqing Municipal Government and the Pengshui County Government. Nearly 70 representatives from consulates, international chambers, and media outlets across 11 countries—including Japan, Canada, Brazil, Myanmar, and Vietnam—took part in the visit.

    The delegation explored Pengshui’s growing potential in specialty agriculture, traditional Miao medicine, and cultural tourism.

    A delegation of foreign diplomats and international representatives visits Pengshui Miao and Tujia autonomous county in southwestern China’s Chongqing to learn about the county’s socioeconomic development and find new cooperation opportunities from July 2 to 3, 2025. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]

    At Shan’gan township’s “Miao Medicine Valley,” the delegation was introduced to locally grown wasabi—an uncommon crop in the region. Takada Mari, Consul-General of Japan in Chongqing, said that wasabi typically requires very specific conditions and said she had not expected it to grow successfully in Pengshui. She described the flavor as developing slowly with a natural taste, and noted that local production of wasabi, along with ongoing exchanges with Japanese businesses, could pave the way for deeper cooperation in trade, culture, and talent development.

    A delegation of foreign diplomats and international representatives visits Pengshui Miao and Tujia autonomous county in southwestern China’s Chongqing to learn about the county’s socioeconomic development and find new cooperation opportunities from July 2 to 3, 2025. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]

    The delegation also visited Pengshui’s sweet potato development center, an agricultural product exhibition hall, and rural revitalization demonstration areas. Many participants said that the opening of a high-speed rail line to Pengshui has greatly improved accessibility and opened new opportunities for collaboration.

    U Kyaw Zay Yar Lin, Consul-General of Myanmar in Chongqing, noted that Pengshui’s traditional attire and music reminded him of his own home country. He expressed strong interest in exploring trade possibilities for local specialty products such as Miao herbal medicine and sweet potatoes, emphasizing the cultural connection between ethnic communities in both countries.

    A delegation of foreign diplomats and international representatives visits Pengshui Miao and Tujia autonomous county in southwestern China’s Chongqing to learn about the county’s socioeconomic development and find new cooperation opportunities from July 2 to 3, 2025. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]

    Birgit Murr, head of the commercial section at the Austrian Consulate General in Chengdu, highlighted the high quality of Pengshui’s organic agricultural products, particularly those with national geographical indication status. She said such credentials could serve as a strong marketing point for expanding sales to other regions in China and into international markets.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Superjob Rating: GUU in the top 10 for salaries of law graduates

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    The job search and recruitment service Superjob has published a ranking of the best law schools in Russia based on the salary level of graduates from 2019 to 2024. The State University of Management retained its 9th place in the ranking, sharing it with the National Research Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod.

    Most of the universities that made it into the top 10 retained their positions from last year. According to the rating, the average salary of a GUU graduate is 115,000 rubles per month, which is 5,000 rubles higher than last year’s figure.

    The number of our graduates who found employment in Moscow after completing their studies has increased by 2% since last year and is 92%. This figure is higher only for the All-Russian Academy of Foreign Trade and Economic Development of the Russian Federation (96%).

    Let us recall that Superjob recently updated the ranking of universities by graduate salaries in the field of economics, where GUU also retained its place. Earlier, GUU took 11th and 13th places in the first National Ranking of Graduate Employment by employment of bachelor’s and master’s degree graduates, respectively, in the field of “Sciences about Society”, and also entered the top 10 best economic universities in Moscow according to RIA Novosti and the top 100 best universities in Russia according to RAEX.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: AI as an Industrial Driver: Experts Discuss Challenges and Solutions at Polytechnic Conference

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    A large-scale All-Russian scientific and practical conference with international participation “Industrial Artificial Intelligence” is taking place at Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University. The event is organized with the support of the St. Petersburg Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences and in cooperation with St. Petersburg State University.

    Over 150 participants from over 25 universities and research organizations, about 20 enterprises and companies — developers of the real sector of the economy — registered for the conference. Representatives of various regions of Russia — St. Petersburg, Moscow, Tyumen, Novosibirsk, Orenburg, Tomsk, Kazan, Murmansk, Veliky Novgorod, Samara and other cities — are participating in the conference. Foreign participants are also involved — from Belarus and China, the latter is represented by postgraduate students.

    The conference brought together the academic community from leading universities and research centers working in the field of intelligent control systems: SPbPU, SPbSU, IPU named after Trapeznikov RAS, MAI, MIPT, FRC RAS, IPME RAS, LETI, ITMO, Tyumen State University, Omsk State Technical University and others. Representatives of the industry also participate in it — industrial companies and developers, including PJSC Gazprom Neft, JSC Kola MMC (Norilsk Nickel), JSC Atomic Soft, LLC Rakurs Engineering, as well as developers of software solutions and young researchers.

    Co-chairman of the conference program committee and moderator of the plenary session, Corresponding Member of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Vice-Rector for International Affairs of SPbPU Dmitry Arsenyev, opening the event, emphasized: The strategy of technological leadership requires us to move from abstract reasoning to the creation of “strong” industrial AI – systems capable of managing structurally complex objects in conditions of uncertainty. Today we have tried to unite the academic and university community, as well as leading Russian industrial companies to discuss the most pressing issues of development and implementation of promising breakthrough solutions in the field of industrial artificial intelligence, intelligent control systems, automation and robotics technologies.

    First Vice-Rector of SPbPU, Corresponding Member of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Vitaly Sergeev welcomed the conference participants: Artificial intelligence is a new level of development of automation systems. It is the synergy of industry, science and education that will lead to the creation of breakthrough products, where AI will become the basis for design, optimization and work with big data, which is beyond the control of the human brain.

    The first day’s program opened with a series of key plenary presentations devoted to discussing the current state, main challenges and current tasks in the development and implementation of advanced solutions in the field of industrial artificial intelligence, intelligent control systems, as well as automation and robotics technologies.

    Dmitry Arsenyev, together with Vyacheslav Shkodyrev, professor at the Higher School of Cyber-Physical Systems Management at SPbPU, opened the scientific discussion with a report entitled “Strong Industrial Artificial Intelligence: Principles of Cognitive Science and Knowledge Structuring in Management Systems,” setting the tone for the entire forum.

    Director of Science at Gazprom Neft PJSC, Professor Mars Khasanov, presented the industry’s challenges and ways to solve them in his speech “Engineering Artificial Intelligence: Challenges and Responses to Them.”

    Engineering AI is the answer to a fundamental problem: 90% of profit is generated in the early stages of projects, where we have almost no data. We need hybrid neurosymbolic systems that combine expert knowledge with generative technologies to overcome the “closure defect” of human thinking and find non-obvious solutions, he noted.

    Director of the Center for Intelligent Robotic Systems of the V. A. Trapeznikov Institute of Control Sciences of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Professor of the Russian Academy of Sciences Roman Meshcheryakov spoke about fundamental approaches to creating complex autonomous systems in his report “Intelligent Robotic Systems. General Approaches”: Robot teams are systems where stability is achieved through the synergy of “rigid” algorithms and adaptive machine learning. Our experiments prove that effective group management is possible – the main thing is to create an architecture that imitates natural cooperation.

    A practical view on replacing foreign solutions was voiced by Leonid Chernigov, CEO of Rakurs Engineering LLC, who discussed in detail the topic of “Import substitution in control and monitoring systems, diagnostic issues using artificial intelligence at power engineering facilities.” The plenary session was concluded by Dmitry Sannikov, Director of the Innovation Department of JSC Kola MMC Norilsk Nickel, who shared the company’s real experience in the report “Using AI at industrial enterprises of PJSC MMC Norilsk Nickel. Challenges and approaches.” Thus, leading experts covered a range of topics from the concepts of “strong” and engineering AI to specific cases of implementation and import substitution in APCS.

    The section “Software and hardware platforms and artificial intelligence technologies in automation and control systems” discussed physically-aware models of machine learning and neurosymbolic artificial intelligence as the basis for digital twins of energy pipeline systems, an intelligent control system for the process chain, technologies for automation and intellectualization of proactive control of complex objects and other equally important issues. The report by Marina Bolsunovskaya, head of the laboratory “Industrial systems for streaming data processing” of the Advanced Engineering School of SPbPU “Digital Engineering”, reflected the experience of the Polytechnic University in implementing real projects in the field of artificial intelligence, practical cases and lessons learned at the stage of implementing theoretical solutions.

    Students and postgraduates from SPbPU, SPbSU, MIPT, ITMO, Tyumen State University, BRU and other universities presented the results of their research and developments in the field of AI at the youth section at the Polytech-Cyberphysics center. The issues of creating mechanisms and models to increase the transparency of AI decisions, the use of various neural network models to solve not only engineering problems, but also in medicine and education were discussed.

    The plenary session on the second day of the conference was opened by the moderator, co-chairman of the program committee, corresponding member of the Russian Academy of Sciences, doctor of physical and mathematical sciences, professor, head of the Department of Applied Cybernetics at St. Petersburg State University Nikolay Kuznetsov. In his report, he noted the innovative approach of St. Petersburg State University to training personnel, telling about the first specialist in the field of artificial intelligence mathematics in Russia, emphasizing the need for a close connection between fundamental science and industry demands. The topic found a wide response from the audience and was supported by the report “Prohibit cannot be used”. The report of the Vice-Rector for Digitalization of MAI Sergey Popov – “Application of Large Language Models in the Educational Process” – was devoted to finding a balance between the capabilities of AI and compliance with the principles of academic integrity.

    The experts discussed issues of distributed and hybrid group intelligence, predictive analytics and intelligent systems, industrial security. Valery Odegov, CEO of Atomic Soft JSC, emphasized technological sovereignty in industrial automation, presenting domestic solutions for automated process control systems and their role in ensuring the independence of critical industries. Maxim Kalinin, professor at SPbPU, touched upon the vital issue of cyber resilience of digital electrical substations in the face of growing cyber threats.

    Summing up the conference, the participants and organizers noted the high scientific and practical level of the reports presented, the relevance of the topics raised – from fundamental research to specific implementation solutions in industry. The importance of the platform for dialogue between science, education and business in such a strategically important area as industrial artificial intelligence was especially emphasized.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Winnie Ho promotes GBA in Portugal

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Housing Winnie Ho attended a business luncheon during her visit to Lisbon, Portugal, to promote development opportunities in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA).

    At the business luncheon co-organised by the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Development Office under the Constitutional & Mainland Affairs Bureau and the Hong Kong Economic & Trade Office in Brussels, Ms Ho promoted the vast opportunities for Portuguese companies arising from the development of the 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 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 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 bureau 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.

    The housing chief said she looked forward to continued exchanges between Hong Kong and Portugal on innovative construction technologies and green building designs.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Justice Secretary to visit Europe

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Justice Paul Lam will depart for Europe tomorrow to visit the Netherlands, France and Italy to introduce Hong Kong’s latest legal developments, promote its strengths in legal and dispute resolution services, and explore collaboration on international capacity building.

     

    Mr Lam plans to attend seminars organised by the Department of Justice and other exchange sessions.

     

    He will also deliver speeches to 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”, the strategic positioning of the city 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.

     

    The Secretary for Justice will return to Hong Kong on July 13 upon conclusion of his visit in Rome. Deputy Secretary for Justice Cheung Kwok-kwan will be Acting Secretary during his absence.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Chevron Reaffirms Long-Term Commitment to Africa as Diamond Sponsor of African Energy Week (AEW) 2025

    Source: APO

    Chevron’s return as a Diamond Sponsor at African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies 2025 comes as the energy major deepens its footprint across Africa, marking a renewed commitment to unlocking long-term growth opportunities in both mature and emerging markets. Chevron is ramping up its activities across the continent – securing new acreage, expanding gas infrastructure and advancing exploration efforts in high-potential basins across the continent.  

    In Nigeria, Chevron’s plan to scale up oil exploration follows a recent discovery in the Niger Delta – the Meji NW-1 well. In February 2025, Chevron extended its contract with Shelf Drilling for the Scepter jack-up rig offshore Nigeria, ensuring continuity of drilling operations through mid-2026. In Equatorial Guinea (EG), Chevron has stakes in three fields and recently entered into two production-sharing contracts for the EG-06 and EG-11 blocks. Chevron is engaged in discussions to monetize gas from the Aseng field and to develop a transboundary field between Equatorial Guinea and Cameroon.  The company has also indicated it is considering drilling an exploration well in PEL 82 in Namibia’s offshore Walvis Basin in 2026 or 2027, activating its growing African exploration portfolio. 

    In Angola, Chevron has expanded its footprint with new deepwater concessions and the Sanha Lean Gas Connection Project, which achieved first gas in December 2024 and links gas fields in Blocks 0 and 14 to the Angola LNG plant – enhancing monetization of associated gas and strengthening energy security. In 2024, the company signed two Risk Service Contracts for Blocks 49 and 50 in ultra-deepwater acreage in Angola’s Lower Congo Basin, laying the foundation for future development. Chevron’s active participation in Angola LNG, which is set to undergo expansion to accommodate new gas supplies, and as partner of New Gas Consortium underscores its commitment to the country’s gas value chain. 

    Meanwhile, in Egypt Chevron remains excited about its exploration portfolio where it has 3 blocks — including operatorship of Nargis and North el Dabaa – and continues to look for new opportunities. Chevron recognizes that Algeria holds a world-class hydrocarbon system with the potential for significant oil and gas resources. Earlier this year Chevron signed a study agreement with Algeria’s national hydrocarbons agency, Alnaft to assess potential offshore hydrocarbon resources. This expansion supports Algeria’s broader objective of boosting foreign investment and developing new reserves to sustain its export-driven energy economy. 

    “Chevron’s commitment to Africa is more than just operational – it’s strategic. Their continued investment across Nigeria, Angola and now Algeria and Namibia shows real confidence in the future of African energy. As a Diamond Sponsor of AEW 2025, Chevron is not only driving upstream and gas development, but helping shape the dialogue around sustainability, infrastructure and long-term energy security for the continent,” said Tomás Gerbasio, Vice President of Commercial and Strategic Engagement at the African Energy Chamber.  

    The energy major’s presence at AEW 2025: Invest in African Energies in Cape Town – where it will headline as a Diamond Sponsor – reflects this dual focus on opportunity and responsibility. As delegates gather to shape the future of African energy, Chevron brings to the table a proven track record, fresh investment and a long-term view of Africa as a critical pillar in the global energy mix. 

    AEW: Invest in African Energies is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit www.AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event. 

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

    Media files

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    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Tourism Deputy Minister G20 Tourism Priorities programme in the Northern Cape

    Source: Government of South Africa

    Tourism Deputy Minister Maggie Sotyu has engaged with communities in the Northern Cape on the G20 Tourism Priorities and their potential to advance tourism growth and sustainability.

    The Tourism G20 Community Outreach in the Northern Cape was the first in a number of planned events that will bring the G20 agenda closer to tourism communities in the country. 

    In the quest for global sustainable development, the Deputy Minister emphasised the importance of balancing the need for economic growth with social inclusion to meet present and future needs.

    “Bringing the G20 agenda closer to our communities is critical to enable us to chart a path for inclusive global sustainable development. The G20 Tourism Working Group (TWG) has been hard at work, meeting with senior officials, authorities and experts to recommend decisions in line with the agenda and priorities identified by the G20 Presidency,” Sotyu said.

    These recommendations will play a critical part in the overall goal of addressing the global socioeconomic challenges of poverty, unemployment and inequality.

    “It is therefore imperative that we engage the communities we serve to align our proposed recommendations with their present and future needs,” Sotyu said.

    The Northern Cape province is South Africa’s largest province and the most sparsely populated. Renowned for its red dunes and black-maned lions, the province is a popular tourism destination, and a haven for nature and adventure enthusiasts who enjoy exploring its diverse attractions within its national parks. 

    The province’s rich Khoi-San heritage is evident in ancient rock art sites scattered across the region. Its natural wonders, historical landmarks or the warm hospitality of its people makes the Northern Cape a must-see destination for all visitors.

    The Tourism G20 Community Outreach was held in partnership with the Northern Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism. 

    The community engagement featured presentations on skills and empowerment programmes and tourism incentive initiatives from the Department of Tourism. 

    Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) from the local communities were afforded an opportunity to showcase and sell their crafts and products at the event.

    The communities in the Northern Cape were introduced to the four G20 Tourism Priorities that will inform the 2025 G20 Action Plan on Tourism Development, namely:

    • A People-Centered Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Innovation to enhance Travel and Tourism Start-Ups and SMMEs;

    • Tourism Financing and Investment to Enhance Equality and Promote Sustainable Development;

    • Air Connectivity for Seamless Travel, and

    • Enhanced Resilience for Inclusive, Sustainable Tourism Development.

    The G20 Tourism Priorities facilitated robust discussion with the community on the need for greater consultation and collaboration between government and communities. 

    Frequent and continuous engagement will serve to better align the socio-economic needs of tourism communities to domestic and international developmental policies.

    Echoing the community’s sentiments, Sotyu affirmed government’s national development plans that reinforce increased partnerships with communities to build sustainable societies. 

    “Frequent and continuous engagement with our communities will enable us to work towards a people-centred, progressive, and solution-driven policies that find solutions to our domestic and global challenges, whilst accelerating global cooperation and multilateralism.

    “The G20 provides a significant opportunity for our provinces, cities and communities to work together to promote our culture, heritage, tourism and industrial and commercial advances.

    “I also encourage our communities to actively participate in the empowerment programmes that are offered by the three spheres of our government and help us build a nation that works for all,” Sotyu said. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Berthing of world class container vessel demonstrates SA’s marine infrastructure prowess

    Source: Government of South Africa

    South Africa’s port landlord, Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA), has berthed one of the largest container vessels in the world, MSC Nicola Mastro, on her maiden voyage at its deepwater Port of Ngqura in the Eastern Cape this morning. 

    With capacity of 24 116 TEU (Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit), 299 metres in width and 61 metres in beam, the historical berthing of this vessel demonstrates TNPA’s marine capabilities and fit-for-purpose port infrastructure designed to accommodate new-generation vessels. 

    This achievement solidifies TNPA’s status as a significant player in the global maritime industry.

    The successful berthing of MSC Nicola Mastro was made possible by a four-tug operation. These tugboats (tugs) have a bollard-pull of 60 to 70 tonnes, fully capable to handle larger vessels efficiently. 

    This special operation necessitated the ports authority to increase the number of tugs required for safe navigation in the port, from the standard two-tug operation to four. Tugboats are critical marine assets that enable the safe manoeuvring of vessels during pilotage operations. 

    “The arrival of this vessel on our shores brings to the fore the critical role SA ports should uphold in responding to the needs of the current global trade ecosystem. Our ability to dock one of the world’s largest container ships has the potential to transform shipping patterns. It positions the Port of Ngqura as the key container transhipment hub, within the global and Saharan Africa markets,” said Acting TNPA Chief Executive, Phyllis Difeto.

    The Port of Ngqura features depths ranging from 16 -18 meters and boasts deepwater berths, making it a major attraction for container traffic and transhipment opportunities.

    Nicola Mastro surpasses the size of previous vessels that have docked at the Port of Ngqura, which were limited to 366 meters in length. Her on-time berthing was skilfully managed by a marine crew of approximately 24 members, led by Marine Pilot Olwethu Mtsewu-Sisilana, alongside the marine crew in tug services, pilotage and berthing. Mtsewu-Sisilana is one of TNPA’s Marine Pilots with an open licence, allowing her to handle any size of vessel docking and sailing at the port. 

    Originally from Qanda village of eXesi in the rural Eastern Cape, Mtsewu-Sisilana began her maritime career in 2008 through a Transnet bursary and has recorded a major milestone in her career through this docking. 

    TNPA is gearing towards receiving more vessel call-ins of this calibre. The vessel is scheduled to depart on 5 July 2025, following the completion of the cargo operation at the container terminal.

    TNPA is responsible for the safe, effective and efficient economic functioning of the national ports system, which it manages in a landlord capacity. 

    It provides port infrastructure and marine services at the eight commercial seaports in South Africa — Richards Bay, Durban, Saldanha, Cape Town, Port Elizabeth, East London, Mossel Bay and Ngqura. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Home Affairs outlines key achievements at Budget Vote presentation

    Source: Government of South Africa

    Minister Leon Schreiber has outlined the key achievements recorded in the Department of Home Affairs at Thursday’s Budget Vote presentation.

    “It has been a year of remarkable progress for the Home Affairs ecosystem. I am here to confidently report to the House that the progress we have made over the last 12 months, by working as one team with one dream, has exceeded the expectations of cynics and optimists alike,” Schreiber said.

    The department has cleared a backlog of over 306 000 visa applications dating back more than a decade.

    “We produced and delivered just under 3.6 million Smart IDs, surpassing the previous annual record by nearly half a million. 

    “We deployed advanced drone and body camera technology at the border for the first time, leading to an increase of up to 215% in the detection and prevention of attempted illegal border crossings.

    “We launched Operation New Broom as part of intensified operations to restore the rule of law, leading to over 46 000 deportations — the highest figure in more than five years and more than countries like France and Germany combined,” the Minister said.

    Schreiber said the department launched the Trusted Tour Operator Scheme to boost tourism from the major source markets of China and India where South Africa has underperformed for years.

    “We enabled over 1.4 million naturalised citizens and permanent residents to obtain secure Smart IDs for the first time. We activated the Immigration Advisory Board for the first time in a decade by appointing a diverse group of seasoned experts to help shape better policies,” Schreiber said.

    Schreiber said the department dismissed 37 crooked officials and launched the dedicated Border Management and Immigration Anti-Corruption Forum that brings together law enforcement, the Special Investigating Unit, the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigations and the National Prosecuting Authority to ensure corrupt officials and fraudsters are put behind bars.  

    “Our anti-corruption work has led to the conviction of eight offenders, with sentences ranging from four to 18 years in prison.

    “We built a working prototype of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system that will digitalise the visa processes from beginning to end, eliminating corruption and inefficiency,” the Minister said.

    Schreiber said the reforms that his department will deliver in the next 12 months will begin to redefine the quality of services that South Africans expect from their government.

    “The endpoint of these reforms is to enable both South Africans and legitimate visitors to apply and obtain enabling documents online, including in digital format, from the comfort of their own homes,” Schreiber said. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Disruptive rains expected in the Western Cape

    Source: Government of South Africa

    Friday, July 4, 2025

    The South African Weather Service has issued a severe weather alert for Friday.

    “Disruptive rain is expected over the western parts of the Western Cape, with damaging winds along the south coast with possible disruptive snow along the Drakensberg mountains,” said the service on Thursday.

    The weather for Saturday and Sunday was expected to be partly cloudy

    “Partly cloudy conditions are expected for the central and southern parts of the country, with isolated to scattered showers and thundershowers, but widespread in places over the south-western areas.”

    SAWS said the weather outlook was, otherwise, fine cold to cool.

    A total of 102 people died in the Eastern Cape recently, due to flooding. Torrential rains lead to unprecedented floods in districts such as Nelson Mandela Bay, Chris Hani, and OR Tambo. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Mpumalanga Premier mourns death of Former Deputy President

    Source: Government of South Africa

    Friday, July 4, 2025

    Mpumalanga Premier Mandla Ndlovu has paid homage to former Deputy President David Mabuza who passed away on Thursday.

    The former Deputy President passed away in hospital on Thursday following a short illness.

    Mabuza served as Mpumalanga premier between 2009 and 2018 before becoming a Member of Parliament and his subsequent appointment as Deputy President. 

    He also served as a member of the province’s executive council.

    “It is with profound sadness and a deep sense of national loss that we mourn the passing of former Deputy President of the Republic of South Africa, Mr David Dabede Mabuza. We join the President and the country in conveying our condolences to his family, for the loss.

    “In his tenure as the MEC for Education, the Premier and later as the Deputy President, Mabuza served our province and our country with distinction, and with a deep sense of commitment to the ideals of democracy, peace, unity and the upliftment of our people,” Ndlovu said.

    The Mpumalanga-born politician – affectionately referred to as DD or The Cat – was a teacher by training, however, he was drawn into political activism.

    “I personally worked with him when we served as Chairperson and Secretary respectively. 

    “We shared ideas and learned a lot from each other. As a former educator myself, he shaped my perspective on how commitment can propel you from the class as an educator to participate in responsibilities of a bigger scale,” Ndlovu said. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN to participate in the 58th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting and Related Meetings in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

    Source: ASEAN

    At the invitation of The Honourable Dato’ Seri Utama Haji Mohamad bin Haji Hasan, Chair of the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in 2025 and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Malaysia, Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, will lead the ASEAN Secretariat delegation to participate in the 58th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, the ASEAN Post Ministerial Conferences, the 26th ASEAN Plus Three Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, the 15th East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, the 32nd ASEAN Regional Forum, and the meeting of the SEANWFZ Commission. The series of meetings hosted by Malaysia, as ASEAN Chair for 2025, will take place in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on 8-11 July 2025, under the theme “Inclusivity and Sustainability.” While in Malaysia, Dr. Kao will hold bilateral meetings with Foreign Ministers from ASEAN Member States and ASEAN’s external partners to exchange views on recent regional and global developments, and to explore new ideas for strengthening and broadening cooperation and partnerships in support of the implementation of ASEAN 2045: Our Shared Future. Dr. Kao is also scheduled to hold an interface with AICHR Representatives on the margins of the 58th AMM and Related Meetings.
    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN to participate in the 58th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting and Related Meetings in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Indonesian Court Delivers Blow to South Sumatra Smoke Haze Victims and to Environmental Justice

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    Palembang – July 4, 2025 – In a deeply disappointing decision, the Palembang District Court in Sumatra has rejected a lawsuit filed by dozens of smoke haze victims and a supporting intervention by Greenpeace Indonesia against three pulpwood plantation companies – PT Bumi Mekar Hijau, PT Bumi Andalas Permai, and PT Sebangun Bumi Andalas Wood Industries. The ruling is a setback in the fight for public health and a clean environment in South Sumatra.

    Haze victims staged a peaceful protest in front of the Palembang District Court, South Sumatra, Indonesia. © Abriansyah Liberto / Greenpeace

    The court’s decision to reject the lawsuit – apparently by finding that the plaintiffs lacked standing to sue – disregards the community’s fundamental right to a clean and healthy environment. It also severely curtails the public’s ability to seek justice.[1] The lawsuit, brought by the victims, was a legitimate exercise of their constitutional and legal rights, aiming to achieve accountability for their suffering from the recurring forest and land fires enabled by peatland drainage carried out by the plantation companies.”

    The plaintiffs are members of the community who are clearly and directly impacted by the smoke haze resulting from peatland fires within the defendants’ concessions. They have endured both material and immaterial losses, and now they face this heartbreaking news,” said Belgis Habiba, Forest Campaigner for Greenpeace Indonesia. “Furthermore, the intervening plaintiff, Greenpeace Indonesia, also has the established right to demand the restoration of the environment damaged by the defendants’ peatland drying activities. The court appears to have ignored witness and expert testimonies, previous cases on environmental standing to sue, as well as the undeniable fact that the dangers of peatland fires and smoke haze continue to loom over South Sumatra.”

    This ruling comes at a time of escalating peatland fire risks, with the South Sumatra Provincial Government having just declared an “Emergency Haze Alert” status. By dismissing this lawsuit, the panel of judges has ironically weakened the nation’s commitment to mitigating and tackling the annual fire and haze crisis.

    The plaintiffs’ legal team has announced they will thoroughly review the full ruling, which has yet to be published, and are considering an appeal. “We believe that the people of South Sumatra have an undeniable right to clean and healthy air, and this must be tirelessly fought for,” said Ipan Widodo, representing the plaintiffs’ legal team. “If the panel of judges allows plantation companies responsible for producing haze to escape accountability, then the devastating impact of smoke haze will continue to haunt the residents of South Sumatra.”

    In a display of disappointment, victims of the smoke haze and community members in South Sumatra held a flower-scattering protest in front of the Palembang District Court. Messages of “Justice for Haze Victims,” “Deepest Condolences for the Demise of Justice at Palembang District Court,” and “Palembang District Court Makes It Even Harder to Breathe” adorned the court building’s front fence. Dressed entirely in black, the protestors symbolized the denial of justice for the haze victims.

    “Amidst the South Sumatra Provincial Government’s declaration of an emergency haze alert, this decision seems to contradict the commitment of law enforcement and the government in combating forest and peatland fires and smoke haze,” said Muhkamat Arif, one of the eleven plaintiffs. “Naturally, the judges’ decision is incredibly disappointing, but it will not diminish our spirit to keep fighting until we win.”

    Referring to Supreme Court Circular Letter No. 1 of 2017, the panel of judges should have upheld a crucial principle of the judicial system: that substantive justice – which relates to the essence and purpose of law in realizing true justice for society – must take precedence over formal justice, which only adheres to procedural or technical rules in court proceedings. This case dismissal signals a crisis of judicial partiality regarding the right to a healthy environment in the midst of a climate emergency. Therefore, the South Sumatra Smoke Suit Initiative (Inisiasi Sumatera Selatan Penggugat Asap – ISSPA) urges the Supreme Court Supervisory Body and the Judicial Commission of the Republic of Indonesia to evaluate the handling of this lawsuit and increase scrutiny of similar rulings that could exacerbate the national ecological crisis.

    Notes to editor
    [1] The full text of the judgement has not yet been released by the court, but the respondent companies’ argument that the community lacked standing was apparently accepted, according to the brief note uploaded to the court website.

    [2] PT Bumi Mekar Hijau, PT Bumi Andalas Permai, and PT Sebangun Bumi Andalas Wood Industries are listed as part of the APP Business Group in documents submitted during the company’s application to re-associate with the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).

    [3] Photos and videos from today’s action outside the court are available for media use.

    Media Contacts
    Belgis Habiba, Greenpeace Indonesia, +62 897 0005 629
    Yolanda Pradinata, LBH Palembang, +62 821 7764 1251
    Igor O’Neill, Greenpeace Indonesia – [email protected], +61 414 288 424

    South Sumatra Smoke Suit Initiative (Inisiasi Sumatera Selatan Penggugat Asap – ISSPA):
    Greenpeace Indonesia, Pantau Gambut, Yayasan Lembaga Bantuan Hukum Indonesia (YLBHI), YLBHI-LBH Palembang, Indonesian Centre for Environmental Law (ICEL), Public Interest Lawyer Network (PIL-Net) Indonesia, Spora Institute, Perkumpulan Rawang, Perkumpulan Tanah Air, Dewan Pimpinan Wilayah Serikat Petani Indonesia Sumatera Selatan, Konsorsium Pembaruan Agraria (KPA) Wilayah Sumatera Selatan, Solidaritas Perempuan Palembang, Sarekat Hijau Indonesia Sumatera Selatan, Spektakel Klab, Kontra Visual, Diskomik, Himpunan Mahasiswa Pertanian Universitas Sriwijaya (Himasperta UNSRI), Aksi Kamisan Sriwijaya, Badan Eksekutif Mahasiswa Fakultas Hukum Universitas Sriwijaya (BEM FH UNSRI), Badan Eksekutif Mahasiswa Fakultas Ekonomi Universitas Sriwijaya (BEM FE UNSRI), Pergerakan Mahasiswa Islam Indonesia Universitas Islam Negeri Raden Fatah (PMII UIN Raden Fatah).

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • Israeli military prepares plan to ensure Iran cannot threaten Israel, defence minister says

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Israeli military is preparing an enforcement plan to “ensure that Iran cannot return to threaten Israel”, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz told senior military officials.

    He said the military must be prepared, both in intelligence and operations, to ensure Israel has air superiority and to prevent Tehran from reestablishing its previous capabilities.

    He made his remarks following a 12-day air war between the longtime enemies in June, during which Israel struck Iranian nuclear facilities, saying the aim was to prevent Tehran developing a nuclear weapon.

    Iran denies seeking nuclear arms and that its nuclear programme is only for peaceful purposes.

    Israel and Iran agreed to a U.S.-brokered ceasefire that ended hostilities on June 24.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI Russia: In January-June 2025, the number of Russian tourists visiting Sanya increased by 278.9%.

    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

    SANYA, July 4 (Xinhua) — The number of Russian tourists entering and leaving the resort city of Sanya, south China’s Hainan Province, exceeded 236,000 in the first half of this year, up 278.9 percent year on year, according to the Fenghuang border checkpoint of Haikou Main Border Port.

    The sharp increase in tourist flow was due to accessible air connections and the adoption of a number of favorable policy measures, including convenient and efficient entry and exit conditions in Hainan Province.

    According to data from Fenghuang checkpoint, more than 1,000 flights were made between Sanya and Russian cities in January-June, up 367.8 percent from a year earlier.

    From January to June, more than 423,000 foreigners entered and exited Fenghuang International Airport, of which more than 56.68 percent were Russian tourists, 98.18 percent of whom visited Sanya under the visa-free regime for tourism or business purposes.

    Let us recall that at present, a total of 11 passenger air routes have been opened between Sanya and such Russian cities as Moscow, Ufa, Yekaterinburg, Khabarovsk, Novosibirsk, Kazan and others. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Two bodies found in house in Sydney suburb

    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

    SYDNEY, July 4 (Xinhua) — The bodies of two men were found in a house in a Sydney suburb, police said Friday.

    According to the statement, officers responded to reports of concern for residents at a home in the suburb of Surry Hills on Thursday where the man’s body was discovered.

    After the crime scene was established and during the subsequent search, the body of a second man was discovered in another room.

    Initial police investigations show both men died at different times within the last month.

    No arrests have been made. Police are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the men’s deaths. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –