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Category: DJF

  • MIL-OSI Security: District of Arizona Charges Seven Defendants as Part of National Health Care Fraud Takedown

    Source: US FBI

    PHOENIX, Ariz. – Today, United States Attorney Timothy Courchaine announced criminal charges against seven defendants in connection with alleged schemes to receive health care kickbacks and to defraud Medicare and Medicaid (specifically AHCCCS, the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System). The charges filed in federal court are part of the Department of Justice’s 2025 National Health Care Fraud Takedown. The charges stem from alleged schemes to obtain over $1.1 billion by the collective submission of approximately $1.65 billion in fraudulent claims to Medicaid and Medicare and the receipt of health care kickbacks and bribes.

    “Health care fraud doesn’t just steal money from taxpayers, it also degrades trust in the system Americans rely on to care for themselves and their loved ones” said United States Attorney Timothy Courchaine. “I am proud that the District of Arizona, in coordination with the entire Department of Justice, is working hard to hold criminals accountable for putting ill-gotten gains above their community’s well-being.”   

    “This record-setting Health Care Fraud Takedown delivers justice to criminal actors who prey upon our most vulnerable citizens and steal from hardworking American taxpayers,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Make no mistake – this administration will not tolerate criminals who line their pockets with taxpayer dollars while endangering the health and safety of our communities.”

    The charges announced today by United States Attorney Courchaine are part of a strategically coordinated, nationwide law enforcement action that resulted in criminal charges against 324 defendants for their alleged participation in health care fraud and illegal drug diversion schemes that involved the submission of over $14.6 billion in intended loss and over 15 million pills of illegally diverted controlled substances. The defendants allegedly defrauded programs entrusted for the care of the elderly and disabled to line their own pockets. The United States has seized over $245 million in cash, luxury vehicles, and other assets in connection with the takedown.

    The following individuals were charged in the District of Arizona:

    Farrukh Jarar Ali, 41, of Pakistan, was charged by indictment with conspiracy to commit health care fraud and wire fraud, three counts of wire fraud, and money laundering in connection with an alleged $650 million scheme involving at least 41 substance abuse treatment clinics in Arizona. As alleged in the indictment, Ali owned ProMD Solutions (“ProMD”), a Pakistan-based company that provided credentialing, enrollment, medical coding, and billing services for outpatient treatment centers that were purportedly in the business of providing addiction treatment services for persons suffering from alcohol and drug addiction. Ali and ProMD credentialed and enrolled multiple substance abuse treatment clinics as providers with Arizona’s Medicaid agency, the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (“AHCCCS”), but these clinics did not provide legitimate care to patients, many of whom were recruited from the homeless population or Native American reservations. Ali submitted approximately $650 million in false and fraudulent claims to AHCCCS for addiction treatment services that were not provided, were not provided as billed, were so substandard that they failed to serve a treatment purpose, were not used as part of or integrated into any treatment plan, and were medically unnecessary. AHCCCS paid approximately $564 million for these false and fraudulent claims. Ali also created false therapy notes for treatment that was never provided, and the clinics working with Ali provided these falsified records to AHCCCS in response to audits. Ali personally received approximately $24.5 million of AHCCCS funds as a result of the scheme, and he used $2.9 million of the funds to purchase a home located on a golf estate in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorney S. Babu Kaza of the Midwest Strike Force, Assistant Chief James Hayes of the National Rapid Response Strike Force, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Williams of the District of Arizona.

    Cle’Esther Davenport, 51, of Peoria, Arizona, was charged by indictment with conspiracy to defraud the United States and receive and pay kickbacks, and receiving kickbacks, in connection with a substance abuse treatment scheme. As alleged in the indictment, Davenport owned a company, Davenport House LLC, that purportedly provided housing to individuals enrolled in health plans funded by the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (“AHCCCS”), Arizona’s Medicaid program. Davenport received approximately $739,000 in illegal kickbacks to refer individuals to Tusa Integrated Clinic, LLC (“Tusa”), an outpatient treatment center that purported to provide substance abuse and behavioral health treatment to AHCCCS-insured patients, resulting in improper payments of approximately $1.58 million from AHCCCS to Tusa. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant Chief James Hayes and Trial Attorneys Sarah Edwards and Lauren Randell of the National Rapid Response Strike Force and Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Williams of the District of Arizona.

    Ira Denny, 56, of Surprise, Arizona, was charged by information with conspiracy to commit health care fraud in connection with a scheme to defraud Medicare by billing for medically unnecessary amniotic allografts that were procured through kickbacks and bribes. As alleged in the information, medically untrained sales representatives identified and referred elderly Medicare beneficiaries to Denny, a nurse practitioner, who applied amniotic allografts to the beneficiaries without exercising independent medical judgment and in the amount and frequency determined by the sales representatives. Medicare was billed approximately $209,359,607 for allografts ordered and applied by Denny, which were medically unreasonable and unnecessary, ineligible for reimbursement, and procured through kickbacks and bribes. Medicare paid approximately $138,590,922 based on these false and fraudulent claims. The case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorneys William Hochul III and Shane Butland of the National Rapid Response Strike Force and Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Williams of the District of Arizona.

    Tyler Kontos, 29, of Mesa, Arizona, Joel “Max” Kupetz, 36, of Scottsdale, Arizona, and JorgeKinds, 49, of Phoenix, Arizona, were charged by indictment with conspiracy to commit health care fraud, health care fraud, and conspiracy to defraud the United States in connection with a $1 billion amniotic wound allograft fraud scheme. Kontos and Kupetz were also charged with transactional money laundering, and Kupetz was charged with receiving health care kickbacks. As alleged in the indictment, the defendants targeted elderly Medicare patients, many of whom were terminally ill in hospice care, through Arizona-based companies Apex Mobile Medical LLC, Apex Medical LLC, Viking Medical Consultants LLC, and APX Mobile Medical LLC to cause unnecessary and expensive allografts to be applied to these vulnerable patients’ wounds indiscriminately, without coordination with the patients’ treating physicians, to superficial wounds that did not need this treatment, and in sizes excessively larger than the wound. Kontos and Kupetz—neither of whom had any medical training—located elderly Medicare patients with wounds of any size or severity, ordered and recommended the ordering of allografts to be placed on the patients’ wounds, and referred the patients to Kinds and other nurse practitioners to apply the allografts. Kinds, a licensed nurse practitioner, applied whatever quantities and sizes of allografts medically untrained sales representatives ordered for the patients, without conducting an independent medical assessment, resulting in the application of numerous and inappropriately large allografts to single small wounds and wounds that required only traditional conservative treatment to heal. In just fourteen months, the defendants and their co-conspirators caused the submission of over $1 billion in false and fraudulent claims to Medicare, CHAMPVA, TRICARE, and commercial insurers, of which over $600 million was paid. Kontos and Kupetz received illegal kickbacks for ordering and arranging for and recommending the purchasing and ordering of allografts, while Kinds received up to $1,000 for each allograft application. Assets were seized upon the defendants’ indictment, including cryptocurrency and bank accounts totaling more than $7.2 million. The case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorneys William Hochul III and Shane Butland of the National Rapid Response Strike Force and Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Williams of the District of Arizona. Trial Attorney Yuliana Reyes of the Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Bozdech of the District of Arizona are handling asset forfeiture.

    Gina Palacios, 40, of Phoenix, Arizona, was charged by information with conspiracy to commit health care fraud in connection with a scheme to defraud Medicare by billing for medically unnecessary amniotic allografts that were procured through kickbacks and bribes. As alleged in the information, medically untrained sales representatives identified and referred elderly Medicare beneficiaries to Palacios, a nurse practitioner, who applied amniotic allografts to the beneficiaries without exercising independent medical judgment and in the amount and frequency determined by the sales representatives. Medicare was billed approximately $59,470,478 for allografts ordered and applied by Palacios, which were medically unreasonable and unnecessary, ineligible for reimbursement, and procured through kickbacks and bribes. Medicare paid approximately $28,442,271 based on these false and fraudulent claims. The case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorneys William Hochul III and Shane Butland of the National Rapid Response Strike Force and Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Williams of the District of Arizona.

    “The FBI takes the responsibility to investigate and pursue those who commit fraud for personal gain extremely seriously,” said FBI Phoenix Special Agent in Charge Heith Janke.  “Fraud and dishonesty undermine the integrity of our health care system and cost taxpayers’ money; but beyond that and most importantly, when funds are diverted from where they are truly needed, the people who are most vulnerable are hurt the most.”

    The Health Care Fraud Unit’s National Rapid Response, Florida, Gulf Coast, Los Angeles, Midwest, New England, Northeast, and Texas Strike Forces; U.S. Attorneys’ Offices for the District of Arizona, Central District of California, Northern District of California, Southern District of California, District of Columbia, District of Connecticut, District of Delaware, Middle, District of Florida, Northern District of Florida, Southern District of Florida, Middle, District of Georgia, District of Idaho, Northern District of Illinois, Eastern District of Kentucky, Western District of Kentucky, Eastern District of Louisiana, Middle District of Louisiana, District of Maine, District of Massachusetts, Eastern District of Michigan, Northern District of Mississippi, Southern District of Mississippi, District of Montana, District of Nevada, District of New Hampshire, District of New Jersey, Eastern District of New York, Northern District of New York, Southern District of New York, Western District of New York, Eastern District of North Carolina, Western District of North Carolina, District of North Dakota, Northern District of Ohio, Southern District of Ohio, Northern District of Oklahoma, Western District of Oklahoma, District of Oregon, Eastern District of Pennsylvania, District of South Carolina, Middle District of Tennessee, Western District of Tennessee, Northern District of Texas, Southern District of Texas, Western District of Texas, District of Vermont, Eastern District of Virginia, Western District of Washington, and Northern District of West Virginia; and State Attorney Generals’ Offices for Arizona, California, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Missouri, New York, Ohio, and Pennsylvania are prosecuting the cases in the National Health Care Fraud Takedown, with assistance from the Health Care Fraud Unit’s Data Analytics Team. Descriptions of each case involved in today’s enforcement action are available on the Health Care Fraud Unit’s Website.

    The District of Arizona, in particular, worked with the Department’s Criminal Division and the following law enforcement organizations to investigate and prosecute the cases filed during the enforcement period: the FBI, the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, the Department of Defense – Defense Criminal Investigative Service, and the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General.

    A complaint, information, or indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    CASE NUMBERS:         CR-25-00822-PHX-DWL, CR-25-0083-PHX-MTL, CR-25-00915-PHX-SMB, CR-25-00944-PHX-SPL, CR-25-00947-PHX-DWL
    RELEASE NUMBER:    2025-106_Health Care Fraud Takedown

    # # #

    For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
    Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Four North Koreans Charged in Nearly $1 Million Cryptocurrency Theft Scheme

    Source: US FBI

    ATLANTA – Four North Korean nationals, Kim Kwang Jin (김관진), Kang Tae Bok (강태복), Jong Pong Ju (정봉주), and Chang Nam Il (창남일), have been charged in a five-count wire fraud and money laundering indictment arising from a scheme to be hired as remote IT workers and then steal and launder over $900,000 in virtual currency.

    “The defendants used fake and stolen personal identities to conceal their North Korean nationality, pose as remote IT workers, and exploit their victims’ trust to steal hundreds of thousands of dollars,” said U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg. “This indictment highlights the unique threat North Korea poses to companies that hire remote IT workers and underscores our resolve to prosecute any actor, in the United States or abroad, who steals from Georgia businesses.”

    “These schemes target and steal from U.S. companies and are designed to evade sanctions and fund the North Korean regime’s illicit programs, including its weapons programs,” said John A. Eisenberg, Assistant Attorney General for the Department’s National Security Division. “The Justice Department, along with our law enforcement, private sector, and international partners, will persistently pursue and dismantle these cyber-enabled revenue generation networks.”

    “North Korean operatives used false identities to infiltrate companies and steal digital assets to fund their regime,” said Paul Brown, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “The FBI is committed to exposing these threats and protecting U.S. businesses from nation-state cybercrime.”

    According to U.S. Attorney Hertzberg, the indictment, and other information presented in court: To generate revenue for the regime, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (“North Korea” or “DPRK”) dispatches thousands of skilled IT workers around the world to deceive and infiltrate American companies. In October 2019, the defendants traveled to the United Arab Emirates on North Korean documents and worked there as a team. In approximately December 2020 and May 2021, respectively, Kim Kwang Jin (using victim P.S.’s stolen identity) and Jong Pong Ju (using the alias “Bryan Cho”) were hired as developers by an Atlanta, Georgia-based blockchain research and development company and a Serbian virtual token company. Both defendants concealed their North Korean identities from their employers by providing false identification documents containing a mix of stolen and fraudulent identity information. Neither company would have hired Kim Kwang Jin or Jong Pong Ju had it known the defendants were North Korean citizens. Later, on a recommendation from Jong Pong Ju, the Serbian company hired “Peter Xiao,” who in fact was Chang Nam Il.

    After gaining their employers’ trust, Kim Kwang Jin and Jong Pong Ju were assigned projects that provided them access to their employers’ virtual currency assets. In February 2022, Jong Pong Ju used that access to steal virtual currency then worth approximately $175,000. In March 2022, Kim Kwang Jin stole virtual currency then worth approximately $740,000 by modifying the source code of two of his employer’s smart contracts.

    To launder the funds after the thefts, Kim Kwang Jin and Jong Pong Ju used a virtual currency mixer and then transferred the funds to virtual currency exchange accounts controlled by defendants Kang Tae Bok and Chang Nam Il but held in the names of aliases.  The accounts were opened using fraudulent Malaysian identification documents.

    Kim Kwang Jin (김관진), Kang Tae Bok (강태복), Jong Pong Ju (정봉주), and Chang Nam Il (창남일) were indicted by a federal grand jury seated in the Northern District of Georgia on June 24, 2025.

    Members of the public are reminded that the indictment only contains charges.  The defendants are presumed innocent of the charges, and the government bears the burden to prove the defendants’ guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.

    This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is part of the Department of Justice’s DPRK RevGen: Domestic Enabler Initiative. Under the Initiative, launched by the National Security Division and FBI Cyber and Counterintelligence Divisions in March 2024, federal prosecutors and agents prioritize high-impact, strategic, and unified enforcement and disruption operations targeting the DPRK’s illicit revenue generation efforts and the U.S.-based enablers of those efforts.

    Assistant United States Attorneys Samir Kaushal and Alex R. Sistla, and Trial Attorney Jacques Singer-Emery of the National Security Division’s National Security Cyber Section, are prosecuting the case.

    For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at USAGAN.PressEmails@usdoj.gov or (404) 581-6185.  The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Serial Bank Robber Sentenced to Over 10 Years in Prison

    Source: US FBI

    ATLANTA – Khyri Deandre Brown, 28, of Dallas, Ga., has been sentenced for robbing a bank, attempting to rob three additional banks, and brandishing a firearm during a November 2023 crime spree.

    “Brown repeatedly threatened the lives of bank employees and customers by robbing or attempting to rob banks at gunpoint,” said U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg. “This case exemplifies how law enforcement partnerships facilitate the successful prosecutions of dangerous offenders like Brown, whose crimes spanned multiple jurisdictions. Seamless coordination by our federal and local law enforcement partners brought Brown to justice and ended his reign of terror.”

    “This case highlights the FBI’s commitment to working closely with our local partners to identify and arrest violent offenders who threaten public safety,” said Paul Brown, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “Brown’s armed crime spree endangered innocent lives across multiple communities. Thanks to the swift collaboration between law enforcement agencies, he was brought to justice before he could inflict real harm.”

    According to U.S. Attorney Hertzberg, the charges, and other information presented in court, Brown committed the following armed robberies and attempted armed robberies.

    • On November 17, 2023, Brown approached a teller window at a Wells Fargo Bank branch in Hampton, Georgia with a Pringles potato chip can in hand and demanded money. Brown then reached into his waistband as if he were retrieving a weapon. Before the employee complied with Brown’s request, Brown fled the bank without receiving any money.
    • On November 18, 2023, Brown entered a Truist Bank branch in Atlanta with a Pringles can in one hand and retrieved a gun from his waistband. Brown walked up to a teller, pointed the gun at her, and demanded money. After the teller struggled to open her drawer for a few seconds, Brown fled the bank without receiving any money.
    • On November 22, 2023, Brown entered a Truist Bank branch in Marietta, Georgia, approached the teller counter, stated that he was robbing the bank, and demanded money. After a few moments, Brown quickly exited the bank without receiving anything.
    • On November 27, 2023, Brown entered a Fifth Third Bank branch carrying a green Pringles chip can. Brown walked up to a bank employee, lifted his shirt to display a gun tucked in his waistband, and demanded money. Brown then walked around the counter, grabbed money from the employee’s drawer, and placed the cash inside the Pringles can. He then fled the bank.

    On November 29, 2023, officers from the Dallas Police Department arrested Brown after pulling over his vehicle in Paulding County, Georgia. Brown was the sole occupant of the vehicle. During the arrest, officers found, among other items, a large amount of cash in Brown’s pocket, a green Pringles chip can on the front passenger floorboard, and a gun on the rear floorboard.

    On June 30, 2025, U.S. District Judge Sarah E. Geraghty sentenced Brown to ten years, five months in prison followed by three years of supervised release. Brown was convicted on March 20, 2025, after he pleaded guilty to two counts of attempted bank robbery, one count of armed bank robbery, one count of attempted armed bank robbery, and one count of brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.

    This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with valuable assistance from the Atlanta Police Department, Cobb County Police Department, Dallas Police Department, Lovejoy Police Department, and Marietta Police Department.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Wylly, and former Special Assistant U.S. Attorney McClellon D. Cox, III, prosecuted the case.

    For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at USAGAN.PressEmails@usdoj.gov or (404) 581-6185. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Kenya: Amb. Guo Haiyan Paid a Courtesy Call on Hon. Cabinet Secretary (CS) Deborah Mlongo Barasa

    Source: APO

    On July 2, H.E. Amb. Guo Haiyan paid a courtesy call on Hon. Dr. Deborah Mlongo Barasa, Cabinet Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Forestry. Mr. ZHOU Jun, DPR of China to UNEP, and Amb. Jane Makori, Deputy Director General, MFDA, Kenya attended the meeting.

    Amb. Guo shared China’s latest progress and important achievements in the field of ecological and environmental protection. China stands ready to share its experience with Kenya, promoting cooperation in the field of climate change, green BRI and green industry investment, with an aim of jointly enhancing ecological and environmental governance capacity.

    Hon. Dr. Deborah Mlongo Barasa positively acknowledged the process in China-Kenya environmental cooperation, and expressed the willingness to enhance collaboration in the field of circular economy, waste management, biodiversity, and South-South cooperation on climate change.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the Republic of Kenya.

    Media files

    .

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News in Brief: Cope Angel 2025: US, Japan sharpen search and rescue skills

    Source: United States Airforce

    U.S. Air Force Airmen, assigned to the 33rd and 31st Rescue Squadrons, partnered with Japan Air Self-Defense Force members from the Naha Air Rescue Squadron for exercise Cope Angel 25-1 at Kadena and Naha Air Bases.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: ICC selected to administer Internet domain disputes for second time

    Source: International Chamber of Commerce

    Headline: ICC selected to administer Internet domain disputes for second time

    This renewed collaboration reinforces ICC’s longstanding reputation as a leading provider of dispute resolution services in the technology sector and reflects ICANN’s continued reliance on ICC to support the fair, transparent and equitable resolution of domain name disputes. 

    ICANN is expected to open the application window for gTLD registrations in April 2026, giving third parties the opportunity to file objections against such registrations. ICC will administer the proceedings through which objections will be determined on first instance and on appeal – building on ICC’s experience administering cases arising from gTLD registrations in 2012.    

    Proceedings will result in a binding expert determination and will be administered by the ICC International Centre for ADR pursuant to its Expert Rules and the ICANN Applicant Guidebook, ICANN Dispute Resolution Procedure and ICANN Objection Appeals Procedure. The Centre is currently updating its Expert Rules with the creation of a dedicated appendix addressing the financial aspects of both first instance and appellate proceedings. 

    Alya Ladjimi, Counsel of the ICC International Centre for ADR, said:  

    “We are deeply honoured to have been selected again as ICANN dispute resolution service provider. We will answer the call by contributing our dispute resolution expertise to the administration of expert proceedings arising from applications for new gTLDs, and to support the fair and effective resolution of domain name disputes in today’s fast-evolving digital world.” 

    The Centre will supervise all stages of the proceedings, including the administrative review of objections, appointment of expert panels, scrutiny of draft expert determinations and the fixing of procedural costs. 

    Throughout ICC administered proceedings, parties can explore the possibility of settling their disputes through direct negotiations or mediation, benefitting from the Centre’s extensive experience in administering proceedings under the ICC Mediation Rules. 

    A complete archive of ICC expert determinations issued during the 2012 New gTLD round is available here. 

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Support Hub for victims and survivors of terrorism

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Support Hub for victims and survivors of terrorism

    Victims and survivors of terrorism will receive strengthened support as the government today launches a commercial competition to establish a new dedicated support hub.

    As part of the Plan for Change, the government committed to establishing a new dedicated support hub for victims and survivors, supporting their needs in the immediate and long-term aftermath of a terrorist attack.

    The new 24/7 support hub will provide specialist, trauma-informed care to victims and survivors of terrorism, ensuring they have access to the help they need.

    The tender, which opened on Thursday 3 July, is supported by Pool Re, a strategic partner in the government’s CONTEST strategy and the Counter Terrorism Alliance. Pool Re has provided funding to help deliver on our shared mission of supporting victims and survivors.

    Security Minister Dan Jarvis said:

    The repercussions of a terrorist attack are catastrophic. Victims and survivors require dedicated care to help rebuild their lives.

    This new hub will give victims the comprehensive support they need, and I thank Pool Re for being a crucial partner in delivering this.

    Tom Clementi, Director and CEO of Pool Re, said:

    Pool Re is proud to support victims and survivors of terrorism. As the UK’s largest terrorism reinsurer, we recognise that while the economic impact of terrorism is often in the spotlight, the human cost is just as significant.

    This dedicated support hub will help ensure that those affected receive the long-term care they deserve. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with the Home Office through the Counter Terrorism Alliance, to increase the UK’s resilience to the impact of terrorism attacks.

    The 24/7 support hub is a part of wider reforms that have been designed in response to direct engagement with victims and survivors, and insights drawn from international best practice.

    In March, the government also announced a consultation on a new National Day for Victims and Survivors of Terrorism. This closed on 11 June and sought views on proposals to help the country to remember and honour those who have been tragically killed or impacted by terrorist attacks. The outcome of the consultation will follow in due course.

    The Home Office Victims of Terrorism Unit will continue to engage with key stakeholders on progress. 

    Support is available to victims and survivors of terrorism and all those affected, regardless of whether the attack took place in the United Kingdom or overseas. More information is available at gov.uk/victimsofterrorism.

    Updates to this page

    Published 3 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Ukraine Destroys Russian Ammunition Depots — SBU

    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

    KYIV, July 3 (Xinhua) — The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) struck Russian military ammunition depots in the village of Velyke Orekhovo near Khartsyzsk in Donetsk region on Wednesday evening, the SBU reported on its Telegram page on Thursday.

    It is specified that the operation was carried out with the help of drones. From 22:00 on Wednesday, explosions were heard at the arsenals, and then secondary detonation of shells began and a fire broke out.

    The SBU added that the main goal of the strike was to weaken the rear bases of the Russian army. In Khartsyzsk, located near Donetsk, the Russian Federation has placed its command posts, logistics centers and ammunition depots. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Woman preparing terrorist attack detained in St. Petersburg

    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

    St. Petersburg, July 3 (Xinhua) — The Federal Security Service of the Russian Federation detained a Russian citizen in St. Petersburg while attempting to blow up a car, the agency’s press service reported on Thursday.

    It was established that a woman born in 2002 established contact with a representative of a foreign intelligence service in June 2024, to whom she informed of her readiness to participate in sabotage and terrorist activities. In St. Petersburg, she monitored an employee of one of the defense enterprises with the aim of subsequently blowing up his car using a homemade explosive device.

    The woman was detained while planting an explosive device under a car. A criminal case has been opened on attempted terrorist act and illegal trafficking of explosives. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Government meeting (2025, No. 22).

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    1. On the draft federal law “On Amendments to Part Two of the Tax Code of the Russian Federation”

    The bill is aimed at adjusting certain state fees for the provision of a number of state services rendered by internal affairs agencies.

    2. On the draft federal law “On Amendments to the Federal Law “On Information, Information Technologies and the Protection of Information””

    The bill proposes additional regulatory and legal measures aimed at ensuring the effectiveness of the creation and subsequent accounting of state information systems.

    3. On the draft federal law “On the provision of social guarantees to women awarded the title of “Mother Heroine””

    The bill is aimed at ensuring the implementation of state policy aimed at supporting motherhood, stimulating the birth rate and creating favorable conditions for families with children.

    4. On the draft federal law “On Amendments to Articles 1 and 2 of the Federal Law “On Additional Monthly Material Support for Citizens of the Russian Federation for Outstanding Achievements and Special Services to the Russian Federation” and Articles 12 and 15 of the Federal Law “On Insurance Pensions”

    The bill is aimed at increasing the level of social support for certain categories of citizens with children, in accordance with the instruction of the President of the Russian Federation dated January 24, 2025 No. Pr-119GS.

    5. On the draft amendments of the Government of the Russian Federation to the draft federal law No. 676039-8 “On Amendments to the Federal Law “On Innovative Scientific and Technological Centers and on Amendments to Certain Legislative Acts of the Russian Federation””

    The draft amendments are aimed at ensuring prompt counteraction to offenses committed using information and communication technologies.

    6. On the draft amendments of the Government of the Russian Federation to the draft federal law No. 306504-6 “On forensic activities in the Russian Federation”

    The development of the draft amendments was dictated by the need to improve the existing legal regulation of forensic activities.

    Moscow, July 2, 2025

    The content of the press releases of the Department of Press Service and References is a presentation of materials submitted by federal executive bodies for discussion at a meeting of the Government of the Russian Federation.

    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: Dmitry Chernyshenko: The first championship in professional skills among SVO participants will be held in 15 in-demand competencies

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    From July 25 to 29, Kazan will host the first championship in professional skills among participants of the special military operation “Abilympics”. It is being held in accordance with the instructions of Russian President Vladimir Putin.

    “At a meeting with the SVO participants, President Vladimir Putin said that people who have consciously chosen to serve the Fatherland and through this achieve their personal success should gradually occupy certain positions in various areas and directions. Today, it is especially important to help our heroes realize themselves in their chosen specialties and find jobs worthy of such highly qualified, responsible specialists. The first championship in professional skills among SVO participants will be held in 15 in-demand competencies at once. Participants of the national championship “Abilympics” will be able to undergo internships and get jobs in the leading organizations of the country,” said Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko.

    More than 400 people will take part in the competition – these are contestants, experts and accompanying persons. Based on the results, 75 finalists will be selected, who will demonstrate their skills in the final of the national championship “Abilympics” in October 2025.

    “The National Championship of Professional Skills “Abilympics” has won recognition from employers, experts and the inclusive community of our country. This is not just a competition, but a symbol of the fortitude, courage and willpower of defenders. “Abilympics” reveals the heroes as true masters of their craft, who, thanks to perseverance and strength of character, are ready to achieve results for the sake of Russia’s development. I am confident that participation in the championship will help veterans conquer new heights in their chosen specialties,” said State Secretary – Deputy Minister of Defense, Chairperson of the State Foundation “Defenders of the Fatherland” Anna Tsivileva.

    The competition will be held at the production and training center of JSC Kazan Helicopters in 15 competencies: Web Development (Programming), UAV Operator, Photographer, Car Repair and Maintenance, Wood Carving, Performing Arts (Vocals), Massage Therapist, Cooking, Industrial Robotics, Assembly and Disassembly of Electronic Equipment, Welding Technologies, Metalworking, Carpentry, Electrical Installation, and CNC Turning.

    “The Professional Skills Championship is an important stage of comprehensive rehabilitation and social adaptation for the SVO participants, an opportunity to acquire sought-after skills and confidence in their professional future. Now it is important to provide comprehensive support to the returned guys – from training and career guidance to assistance in employment, and the Abilympics movement is actively involved in this process. Each of the veterans of the special operation should have the opportunity to realize their potential, find a decent job and continue developing in the chosen field. After all, their experience, discipline and determination are a valuable contribution to the development of our country,” commented Minister of Education Sergey Kravtsov.

    The opening ceremony of the championship is scheduled for July 25 in the concert hall of the Volga Region State University of Physical Education, Sports and Tourism. The award ceremony for the winners will take place on July 29 in the Bashir Rameev IT Park.

    “It is a great honor and responsibility for us to host this championship. Tatarstan has long been the center of major political and sporting events. We see the attention and care that the President of the country Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin shows to the participants of the SVO. And we are ready to create all the necessary conditions so that our veterans of the special military operation can demonstrate their skills,” said the head of the Republic of Tatarstan Rustam Minnikhanov.

    In addition to the competitive part, the championship includes a business program, which will include a plenary session on the professional development of SVO veterans, round tables on rehabilitation through sports and the role of civil society in supporting SVO participants. Career guidance, excursions and sports events will also be organized for the championship participants.

    In 2025, 228 people from 62 constituent entities of the Russian Federation took part in the regional championships in professional skills among disabled people and people with disabilities “Abilympics” in 43 competencies.

    The organizer of the championship is the Ministry of Education with the support of the Government of Russia and the state fund for supporting participants of the “Defenders of the Fatherland” military military organization, the federal operator is the Institute for the Development of Professional Education, and the regional operator is the government of the Republic of Tatarstan.

    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: Yuri Trutnev: The Jewish Autonomous Region will present key investment projects at the exhibition “Far East Street”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Important industry and investment projects, prospects for international business cooperation and plans for infrastructure development will be presented to guests of the Jewish Autonomous Region (JAR) pavilion at the Far East Street exhibition, which will be held as part of the tenth, anniversary Eastern Economic Forum – 2025 in Vladivostok. The exposition focuses on the tourism, industrial, agricultural and logistics potential of the region. The exhibition is organized by the Roscongress Foundation with the support of the Office of the Plenipotentiary Representative of the President of Russia in the Far Eastern Federal District.

    “A new team has arrived in the Jewish Autonomous Region, headed by Maria Fedorovna Kostyuk. She has actively taken up the work. The region is not easy. It needs to be supported, it needs to be helped. At the same time, there are prerequisites for future development in the region. The built cross-border railway bridge Nizhneleninskoye – Tongjiang creates opportunities for new logistics routes and cargo handling. A powerful transport, logistics and production complex will appear here. This will provide an economic stimulus for the development of the region and the entire Far East, will create jobs – both for blue-collar workers and for highly qualified specialists. Hemostatic tourniquets and other medical equipment are delivered to the front from the region, helping fighters in the SVO zone. On the instructions of the President of Russia, a master plan for Birobidzhan has been developed, and it is planned to create a “Far Eastern quarter”. The pavilion at the exhibition “Far East Street” will tell about how the region is developing, what new directions are emerging in the economy, and what makes the region attractive,” said Deputy Prime Minister – Presidential Plenipotentiary Representative in the Far Eastern Federal District, Chairman of the Organizing Committee of the Eastern Economic Forum Yuri Trutnev.

    Visitors to the pavilion will be able to get acquainted with the unique national color, natural beauty and investment potential of the region. The key component of the exhibition will be the rainbow bridge, since the rainbow is the main element of the flag of the Jewish Autonomous Region, a symbol of peace, happiness and goodness. A robot will act as a tour guide, telling guests about the history of the region, its traditions and features.

    A video about the region is planned to be shown on the large screen inside the pavilion. Information about the region’s existing industrial enterprises, investment projects that are in a high state of readiness, and promising offers for potential financial partners will also be posted here. Among them are the production of iron ore concentrate, the extraction of brucite and graphite, projects in the field of power generation, the forestry complex, and a logistics center. Visitors will also be able to see the products of the region’s enterprises and even take them as a souvenir.

    The stand will tell about promising projects, their characteristics, and also present data on the activities of a number of enterprises. In particular, initiatives will be presented on the formation of an agro-industrial park, the arrangement of greenhouses and the cultivation of berries, the construction of a soybean processing plant and a mineral fertilizer plant, the creation of a transshipment terminal and a petrochemical terminal at the Nizhneleninskoye – Tongjiang border crossing. On the touch panel, one can see an investment map and the possibilities of the bridge area with an image of areas already occupied by projects and free for the placement of production facilities, as well as get acquainted with the implementation of the Birobidzhan master plan.

    “Thanks to the implementation of national projects approved by the President, federal programs, with the support of Yuri Petrovich Trutnev, social facilities, cultural institutions are being modernized in our region, new public spaces are appearing. The region is becoming cozier, brighter, more comfortable. And people see it. The Jewish Autonomous Region is a small region, but with great potential. Our unique logistics capabilities, nature, tourist routes are attractive to investors and guests from all over Russia. These advantages will improve people’s lives, create new jobs, and replenish the budget with tax revenues. Every ruble attracted to the region should benefit people, and every project should change their lives for the better,” said Acting Governor of the Jewish Autonomous Region Maria Kostyuk.

    A “live newspaper” will be dedicated to the celebration of the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War and the exploits of the heroes of the special military operation. The structure with built-in screens and texts in the style of a printed spread will tell about the participants of the Great Patriotic War and the Special Military Operation from the region.

    Stands dedicated to the region’s tourism opportunities will be located nearby. Among them are the “Jewish Place” brand, the museum and memorial complex on top of the June-Koran hill in Volochayevka, the Bastak nature reserve, the Foma and Zmeinaya Mountain ski resorts, and the resort area of the village of Kuldur. Data on the objects is accompanied by QR codes, which make it possible to learn more about the projects. A separate optical mark leads to the “Far East – Land of Adventure” competition page.

    The cultural zone is designed as a large-scale rack, recreating the atmosphere of a cozy home living room, where guests of the Jewish Autonomous Region can get acquainted with the rich cultural heritage and creative achievements of the region. The trade zone will be represented by products of small and medium-sized businesses. At the stand, you can buy honey, clothes of the Pravda brand, knitwear of the Signalnaya brand, and souvenirs.

    The open area opposite the pavilion will feature a recreation area for guests – swings, poufs, pillows, benches, a kiosk with a coffee machine and soft drinks. Three brucite rocks will be presented as art objects. Five-meter lighting poles in the shape of menorahs will be installed on both sides of the pavilion. The stand will host various master classes, sports and cultural programs, including one on the theme of the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War.

    The violin ensemble will perform famous Jewish folk melodies and world classics. Soloists Vyacheslav Tetyuev and Alexandra Prokina will perform songs in Yiddish. The Kamyshinka folk ensemble and the Russkaya Dusha ensemble will delight the audience with bright stylized compositions and original works. Timur Vedernikov and Katya Kotyonochkina from Moscow will also perform here. A retro program with world and domestic hits of the 70s and 80s is planned separately. In addition, the site will host performances by artists of the Surprise Dance Theater.

    The concert programs will include various activities for spectators, including prize drawings for connoisseurs of Jewish culture.

    The 10th Eastern Economic Forum will be held on September 3–6 at the campus of the Far Eastern Federal University in Vladivostok. During these days, the exhibition will be available to forum participants, and on September 7, 8, and 9, it will be open to everyone. The EEF is organized by the Roscongress Foundation.

    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 Canada: Announcement of new diplomatic appointments

    Source: Government of Canada News

    July 3, 2025 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

    The Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced the following diplomatic appointments:

    Alexandre Bilodeau will become Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of Tunisia. Mr. Bilodeau will replace Lorraine Diguer.

    Anderson Blanc will become High Commissioner in the Republic of Mozambique. Mr. Blanc will replace Sara Nicholls.

    Natalie Britton will become Consul General in Istanbul (Republic of Türkiye). Ms. Britton will replace Tara Scheurwater.

    Sandra Choufani will become Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire. Ms. Choufani will replace Anderson Blanc.

    Christian DesRoches will become Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Kingdom of Cambodia. Mr. DesRoches will replace Ping Kitnikone.

    Ambra Dickie will become Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, in Jakarta. Ms. Dickie will replace Vicky Singmin.

    Stephen Doust will become Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Mongolia. Mr. Doust will replace Sandra Choufani.

    Gregory Galligan will become Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Lebanese Republic. Mr. Galligan will replace Stefanie McCollum.

    Alison Grant will become Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of Austria and Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the International Organizations in Vienna. Ms. Grant will replace Troy Lulashnyk.

    Marie-Claude Harvey will become High Commissioner in the Republic of Cameroon. Ms. Harvey will replace Lorraine Anderson.

    Patrick Hébert will become Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of Finland. Mr. Hébert will replace Jeanette Stovel.

    Jean-Dominique Ieraci will become Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of Peru. Mr. Ieraci will replace Louis Marcotte.

    Tarik Khan will become High Commissioner in the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. Mr. Khan will replace Leslie Scanlon.

    Craig Kowalik will become Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of Ecuador. Mr. Kowalik will replace Stephen Potter.

    Philippe Lafortune will become Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of Korea. Mr. Lafortune will replace Tamara Mawhinney.

    Jean-Paul Lemieux will become Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Swiss Confederation. Mr. Lemieux will replace Patrick Wittmann.

    Isabelle Martin will become High Commissioner in the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka. Ms. Martin will replace Eric Walsh.

    Karim Morcos will become Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the State of Qatar. Mr. Morcos will replace Isabelle Martin.

    James Nickel will become Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. Mr. Nickel will replace Shawn Steil.

    Tara Scheurwater will become Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the State of Kuwait. Ms. Scheurwater will replace Aliya Mawani.

    Nicolas Simard will become Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia. Mr. Simard will replace Joshua Tabah.

    Joshua Tabah will become High Commissioner in the Republic of Kenya and Permanent Representative to the United Nations Human Settlements Programme and to the United Nations Environment Programme. Mr. Tabah will replace Christopher Thornley.

    Kent Vachon will become Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Lao People’s Democratic Republic. Mr. Vachon will replace Ping Kitnikone. 

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Announcement of new diplomatic appointments

    Source: Government of Canada News

    July 3, 2025 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

    The Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced the following diplomatic appointments:

    Alexandre Bilodeau will become Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of Tunisia. Mr. Bilodeau will replace Lorraine Diguer.

    Anderson Blanc will become High Commissioner in the Republic of Mozambique. Mr. Blanc will replace Sara Nicholls.

    Natalie Britton will become Consul General in Istanbul (Republic of Türkiye). Ms. Britton will replace Tara Scheurwater.

    Sandra Choufani will become Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire. Ms. Choufani will replace Anderson Blanc.

    Christian DesRoches will become Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Kingdom of Cambodia. Mr. DesRoches will replace Ping Kitnikone.

    Ambra Dickie will become Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, in Jakarta. Ms. Dickie will replace Vicky Singmin.

    Stephen Doust will become Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Mongolia. Mr. Doust will replace Sandra Choufani.

    Gregory Galligan will become Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Lebanese Republic. Mr. Galligan will replace Stefanie McCollum.

    Alison Grant will become Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of Austria and Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the International Organizations in Vienna. Ms. Grant will replace Troy Lulashnyk.

    Marie-Claude Harvey will become High Commissioner in the Republic of Cameroon. Ms. Harvey will replace Lorraine Anderson.

    Patrick Hébert will become Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of Finland. Mr. Hébert will replace Jeanette Stovel.

    Jean-Dominique Ieraci will become Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of Peru. Mr. Ieraci will replace Louis Marcotte.

    Tarik Khan will become High Commissioner in the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. Mr. Khan will replace Leslie Scanlon.

    Craig Kowalik will become Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of Ecuador. Mr. Kowalik will replace Stephen Potter.

    Philippe Lafortune will become Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of Korea. Mr. Lafortune will replace Tamara Mawhinney.

    Jean-Paul Lemieux will become Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Swiss Confederation. Mr. Lemieux will replace Patrick Wittmann.

    Isabelle Martin will become High Commissioner in the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka. Ms. Martin will replace Eric Walsh.

    Karim Morcos will become Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the State of Qatar. Mr. Morcos will replace Isabelle Martin.

    James Nickel will become Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. Mr. Nickel will replace Shawn Steil.

    Tara Scheurwater will become Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the State of Kuwait. Ms. Scheurwater will replace Aliya Mawani.

    Nicolas Simard will become Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia. Mr. Simard will replace Joshua Tabah.

    Joshua Tabah will become High Commissioner in the Republic of Kenya and Permanent Representative to the United Nations Human Settlements Programme and to the United Nations Environment Programme. Mr. Tabah will replace Christopher Thornley.

    Kent Vachon will become Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Lao People’s Democratic Republic. Mr. Vachon will replace Ping Kitnikone. 

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China to hold extensive cultural events marking 80th anniversary of victory against Japanese aggression, fascism

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

    China to hold extensive cultural events marking 80th anniversary of victory against Japanese aggression, fascism

    BEIJING, July 3 — China will organize an array of cultural events to mark the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.

    A press conference was held on Thursday by the State Council Information Office to unveil details of these cultural activities, which include an evening gala, a themed exhibition, and the release of outstanding literary and artistic works, among others.

    Vice Minister of Culture and Tourism Lu Yingchuan said that to mark this important anniversary year, the ministry is working with relevant departments to organize a gala and curate a selection of outstanding cultural works for performances and exhibitions.

    The events are centered on the themes of bearing history in mind, honoring martyrs, cherishing peace, and striving for a better future, Lu said.

    Sept. 3 is celebrated in China as the Victory Day marking the signing of the Japanese Instrument of Surrender on Sept. 2, 1945.

    Fought from 1931 to 1945, the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression was the first war to break out and the longest-running campaign in the World Anti-Fascist War. This war resulted in over 35 million Chinese military and civilian casualties.

    EVENING GALA

    An evening gala will be held on Sept. 3 at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing to mark the occasion, and it will be broadcast by China Media Group (CMG).

    A large number of outstanding artists from across the country have been invited, and a younger generation of cultural professionals will play a leading role and actively engage in the creative process, said Lu.

    The event will be jointly organized by the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, CMG, the Political Work Department of the China Military Commission and the Beijing municipal government.

    Preparations for the gala are well underway via joint efforts of the relevant departments, Lu said, adding that follow-up information will be released in accordance with overall arrangements for these commemorative events.

    THEMED EXHIBITION

    A themed exhibition will be launched on July 7 at the Museum of the War of Chinese People’s Resistance Against Japanese Aggression in Beijing. It will feature 1,525 photographs and 3,237 relics.

    Divided into eight sections, the exhibition will employ a range of modern display techniques to bring history to life, combining rare relics, archival documents, historical footage, artworks and immersive recreations of key moments, said Luo Cunkang, curator of the museum, at Thursday’s press conference.

    The exhibition comprehensively showcases the 14-year war of resistance against Japanese aggression, highlighting how the Chinese people, gathered around the banner of the CPC-advocated national united front against Japanese aggression, fought for the survival of the country, for the revival of the nation, and in a broader sense, for human justice, Luo said.

    As the main Eastern battlefield in the global fight against fascism, China’s resistance was decisive in defeating Japanese fascism and supporting other fronts in Europe and Asia, profoundly contributing to the final victory and world peace.

    ARTWORKS, TV AND FILM PRODUCTIONS

    From August to September, an art exhibition to commemorate the anniversary will be open to the public at the National Art Museum of China. More than 300 artworks, including traditional Chinese paintings, oil paintings, prints, sculptures and watercolors, will be on show.

    The exhibition is set to feature classic pieces from museums and cultural institutions across the country, as well as new works recently created by young artists — inspiring people to cherish peace.

    Meanwhile, a series of new TV dramas, documentaries and short dramas will soon be released, said Liu Jianguo, deputy director of China’s National Radio and Television Administration.

    He added that from July to September, classic Chinese audio and visual works related to the war on Japanese aggression will be re-broadcast on nationwide TV channels and online platforms.

    To remember history and pay tribute to martyrs, nearly 100 films about the war will also be broadcast on TV until the end of 2025, Wang Xiaozhen, vice president of the CMG, said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China to hold extensive cultural events marking 80th anniversary of victory against Japanese aggression, fascism

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

    China to hold extensive cultural events marking 80th anniversary of victory against Japanese aggression, fascism

    BEIJING, July 3 — China will organize an array of cultural events to mark the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.

    A press conference was held on Thursday by the State Council Information Office to unveil details of these cultural activities, which include an evening gala, a themed exhibition, and the release of outstanding literary and artistic works, among others.

    Vice Minister of Culture and Tourism Lu Yingchuan said that to mark this important anniversary year, the ministry is working with relevant departments to organize a gala and curate a selection of outstanding cultural works for performances and exhibitions.

    The events are centered on the themes of bearing history in mind, honoring martyrs, cherishing peace, and striving for a better future, Lu said.

    Sept. 3 is celebrated in China as the Victory Day marking the signing of the Japanese Instrument of Surrender on Sept. 2, 1945.

    Fought from 1931 to 1945, the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression was the first war to break out and the longest-running campaign in the World Anti-Fascist War. This war resulted in over 35 million Chinese military and civilian casualties.

    EVENING GALA

    An evening gala will be held on Sept. 3 at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing to mark the occasion, and it will be broadcast by China Media Group (CMG).

    A large number of outstanding artists from across the country have been invited, and a younger generation of cultural professionals will play a leading role and actively engage in the creative process, said Lu.

    The event will be jointly organized by the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, CMG, the Political Work Department of the China Military Commission and the Beijing municipal government.

    Preparations for the gala are well underway via joint efforts of the relevant departments, Lu said, adding that follow-up information will be released in accordance with overall arrangements for these commemorative events.

    THEMED EXHIBITION

    A themed exhibition will be launched on July 7 at the Museum of the War of Chinese People’s Resistance Against Japanese Aggression in Beijing. It will feature 1,525 photographs and 3,237 relics.

    Divided into eight sections, the exhibition will employ a range of modern display techniques to bring history to life, combining rare relics, archival documents, historical footage, artworks and immersive recreations of key moments, said Luo Cunkang, curator of the museum, at Thursday’s press conference.

    The exhibition comprehensively showcases the 14-year war of resistance against Japanese aggression, highlighting how the Chinese people, gathered around the banner of the CPC-advocated national united front against Japanese aggression, fought for the survival of the country, for the revival of the nation, and in a broader sense, for human justice, Luo said.

    As the main Eastern battlefield in the global fight against fascism, China’s resistance was decisive in defeating Japanese fascism and supporting other fronts in Europe and Asia, profoundly contributing to the final victory and world peace.

    ARTWORKS, TV AND FILM PRODUCTIONS

    From August to September, an art exhibition to commemorate the anniversary will be open to the public at the National Art Museum of China. More than 300 artworks, including traditional Chinese paintings, oil paintings, prints, sculptures and watercolors, will be on show.

    The exhibition is set to feature classic pieces from museums and cultural institutions across the country, as well as new works recently created by young artists — inspiring people to cherish peace.

    Meanwhile, a series of new TV dramas, documentaries and short dramas will soon be released, said Liu Jianguo, deputy director of China’s National Radio and Television Administration.

    He added that from July to September, classic Chinese audio and visual works related to the war on Japanese aggression will be re-broadcast on nationwide TV channels and online platforms.

    To remember history and pay tribute to martyrs, nearly 100 films about the war will also be broadcast on TV until the end of 2025, Wang Xiaozhen, vice president of the CMG, said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China to hold extensive cultural events marking 80th anniversary of victory against Japanese aggression, fascism

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

    China to hold extensive cultural events marking 80th anniversary of victory against Japanese aggression, fascism

    BEIJING, July 3 — China will organize an array of cultural events to mark the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.

    A press conference was held on Thursday by the State Council Information Office to unveil details of these cultural activities, which include an evening gala, a themed exhibition, and the release of outstanding literary and artistic works, among others.

    Vice Minister of Culture and Tourism Lu Yingchuan said that to mark this important anniversary year, the ministry is working with relevant departments to organize a gala and curate a selection of outstanding cultural works for performances and exhibitions.

    The events are centered on the themes of bearing history in mind, honoring martyrs, cherishing peace, and striving for a better future, Lu said.

    Sept. 3 is celebrated in China as the Victory Day marking the signing of the Japanese Instrument of Surrender on Sept. 2, 1945.

    Fought from 1931 to 1945, the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression was the first war to break out and the longest-running campaign in the World Anti-Fascist War. This war resulted in over 35 million Chinese military and civilian casualties.

    EVENING GALA

    An evening gala will be held on Sept. 3 at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing to mark the occasion, and it will be broadcast by China Media Group (CMG).

    A large number of outstanding artists from across the country have been invited, and a younger generation of cultural professionals will play a leading role and actively engage in the creative process, said Lu.

    The event will be jointly organized by the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, CMG, the Political Work Department of the China Military Commission and the Beijing municipal government.

    Preparations for the gala are well underway via joint efforts of the relevant departments, Lu said, adding that follow-up information will be released in accordance with overall arrangements for these commemorative events.

    THEMED EXHIBITION

    A themed exhibition will be launched on July 7 at the Museum of the War of Chinese People’s Resistance Against Japanese Aggression in Beijing. It will feature 1,525 photographs and 3,237 relics.

    Divided into eight sections, the exhibition will employ a range of modern display techniques to bring history to life, combining rare relics, archival documents, historical footage, artworks and immersive recreations of key moments, said Luo Cunkang, curator of the museum, at Thursday’s press conference.

    The exhibition comprehensively showcases the 14-year war of resistance against Japanese aggression, highlighting how the Chinese people, gathered around the banner of the CPC-advocated national united front against Japanese aggression, fought for the survival of the country, for the revival of the nation, and in a broader sense, for human justice, Luo said.

    As the main Eastern battlefield in the global fight against fascism, China’s resistance was decisive in defeating Japanese fascism and supporting other fronts in Europe and Asia, profoundly contributing to the final victory and world peace.

    ARTWORKS, TV AND FILM PRODUCTIONS

    From August to September, an art exhibition to commemorate the anniversary will be open to the public at the National Art Museum of China. More than 300 artworks, including traditional Chinese paintings, oil paintings, prints, sculptures and watercolors, will be on show.

    The exhibition is set to feature classic pieces from museums and cultural institutions across the country, as well as new works recently created by young artists — inspiring people to cherish peace.

    Meanwhile, a series of new TV dramas, documentaries and short dramas will soon be released, said Liu Jianguo, deputy director of China’s National Radio and Television Administration.

    He added that from July to September, classic Chinese audio and visual works related to the war on Japanese aggression will be re-broadcast on nationwide TV channels and online platforms.

    To remember history and pay tribute to martyrs, nearly 100 films about the war will also be broadcast on TV until the end of 2025, Wang Xiaozhen, vice president of the CMG, said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China to hold extensive cultural events marking 80th anniversary of victory against Japanese aggression, fascism

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

    China to hold extensive cultural events marking 80th anniversary of victory against Japanese aggression, fascism

    BEIJING, July 3 — China will organize an array of cultural events to mark the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.

    A press conference was held on Thursday by the State Council Information Office to unveil details of these cultural activities, which include an evening gala, a themed exhibition, and the release of outstanding literary and artistic works, among others.

    Vice Minister of Culture and Tourism Lu Yingchuan said that to mark this important anniversary year, the ministry is working with relevant departments to organize a gala and curate a selection of outstanding cultural works for performances and exhibitions.

    The events are centered on the themes of bearing history in mind, honoring martyrs, cherishing peace, and striving for a better future, Lu said.

    Sept. 3 is celebrated in China as the Victory Day marking the signing of the Japanese Instrument of Surrender on Sept. 2, 1945.

    Fought from 1931 to 1945, the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression was the first war to break out and the longest-running campaign in the World Anti-Fascist War. This war resulted in over 35 million Chinese military and civilian casualties.

    EVENING GALA

    An evening gala will be held on Sept. 3 at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing to mark the occasion, and it will be broadcast by China Media Group (CMG).

    A large number of outstanding artists from across the country have been invited, and a younger generation of cultural professionals will play a leading role and actively engage in the creative process, said Lu.

    The event will be jointly organized by the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, CMG, the Political Work Department of the China Military Commission and the Beijing municipal government.

    Preparations for the gala are well underway via joint efforts of the relevant departments, Lu said, adding that follow-up information will be released in accordance with overall arrangements for these commemorative events.

    THEMED EXHIBITION

    A themed exhibition will be launched on July 7 at the Museum of the War of Chinese People’s Resistance Against Japanese Aggression in Beijing. It will feature 1,525 photographs and 3,237 relics.

    Divided into eight sections, the exhibition will employ a range of modern display techniques to bring history to life, combining rare relics, archival documents, historical footage, artworks and immersive recreations of key moments, said Luo Cunkang, curator of the museum, at Thursday’s press conference.

    The exhibition comprehensively showcases the 14-year war of resistance against Japanese aggression, highlighting how the Chinese people, gathered around the banner of the CPC-advocated national united front against Japanese aggression, fought for the survival of the country, for the revival of the nation, and in a broader sense, for human justice, Luo said.

    As the main Eastern battlefield in the global fight against fascism, China’s resistance was decisive in defeating Japanese fascism and supporting other fronts in Europe and Asia, profoundly contributing to the final victory and world peace.

    ARTWORKS, TV AND FILM PRODUCTIONS

    From August to September, an art exhibition to commemorate the anniversary will be open to the public at the National Art Museum of China. More than 300 artworks, including traditional Chinese paintings, oil paintings, prints, sculptures and watercolors, will be on show.

    The exhibition is set to feature classic pieces from museums and cultural institutions across the country, as well as new works recently created by young artists — inspiring people to cherish peace.

    Meanwhile, a series of new TV dramas, documentaries and short dramas will soon be released, said Liu Jianguo, deputy director of China’s National Radio and Television Administration.

    He added that from July to September, classic Chinese audio and visual works related to the war on Japanese aggression will be re-broadcast on nationwide TV channels and online platforms.

    To remember history and pay tribute to martyrs, nearly 100 films about the war will also be broadcast on TV until the end of 2025, Wang Xiaozhen, vice president of the CMG, said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China to hold extensive cultural events marking 80th anniversary of victory against Japanese aggression, fascism

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

    China to hold extensive cultural events marking 80th anniversary of victory against Japanese aggression, fascism

    BEIJING, July 3 — China will organize an array of cultural events to mark the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.

    A press conference was held on Thursday by the State Council Information Office to unveil details of these cultural activities, which include an evening gala, a themed exhibition, and the release of outstanding literary and artistic works, among others.

    Vice Minister of Culture and Tourism Lu Yingchuan said that to mark this important anniversary year, the ministry is working with relevant departments to organize a gala and curate a selection of outstanding cultural works for performances and exhibitions.

    The events are centered on the themes of bearing history in mind, honoring martyrs, cherishing peace, and striving for a better future, Lu said.

    Sept. 3 is celebrated in China as the Victory Day marking the signing of the Japanese Instrument of Surrender on Sept. 2, 1945.

    Fought from 1931 to 1945, the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression was the first war to break out and the longest-running campaign in the World Anti-Fascist War. This war resulted in over 35 million Chinese military and civilian casualties.

    EVENING GALA

    An evening gala will be held on Sept. 3 at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing to mark the occasion, and it will be broadcast by China Media Group (CMG).

    A large number of outstanding artists from across the country have been invited, and a younger generation of cultural professionals will play a leading role and actively engage in the creative process, said Lu.

    The event will be jointly organized by the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, CMG, the Political Work Department of the China Military Commission and the Beijing municipal government.

    Preparations for the gala are well underway via joint efforts of the relevant departments, Lu said, adding that follow-up information will be released in accordance with overall arrangements for these commemorative events.

    THEMED EXHIBITION

    A themed exhibition will be launched on July 7 at the Museum of the War of Chinese People’s Resistance Against Japanese Aggression in Beijing. It will feature 1,525 photographs and 3,237 relics.

    Divided into eight sections, the exhibition will employ a range of modern display techniques to bring history to life, combining rare relics, archival documents, historical footage, artworks and immersive recreations of key moments, said Luo Cunkang, curator of the museum, at Thursday’s press conference.

    The exhibition comprehensively showcases the 14-year war of resistance against Japanese aggression, highlighting how the Chinese people, gathered around the banner of the CPC-advocated national united front against Japanese aggression, fought for the survival of the country, for the revival of the nation, and in a broader sense, for human justice, Luo said.

    As the main Eastern battlefield in the global fight against fascism, China’s resistance was decisive in defeating Japanese fascism and supporting other fronts in Europe and Asia, profoundly contributing to the final victory and world peace.

    ARTWORKS, TV AND FILM PRODUCTIONS

    From August to September, an art exhibition to commemorate the anniversary will be open to the public at the National Art Museum of China. More than 300 artworks, including traditional Chinese paintings, oil paintings, prints, sculptures and watercolors, will be on show.

    The exhibition is set to feature classic pieces from museums and cultural institutions across the country, as well as new works recently created by young artists — inspiring people to cherish peace.

    Meanwhile, a series of new TV dramas, documentaries and short dramas will soon be released, said Liu Jianguo, deputy director of China’s National Radio and Television Administration.

    He added that from July to September, classic Chinese audio and visual works related to the war on Japanese aggression will be re-broadcast on nationwide TV channels and online platforms.

    To remember history and pay tribute to martyrs, nearly 100 films about the war will also be broadcast on TV until the end of 2025, Wang Xiaozhen, vice president of the CMG, said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • PM Modi leaves for Trinidad and Tobago after concluding two-day Ghana visit

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday departed from Ghana’s capital, Accra, after concluding the first leg of his five-nation tour. He will now travel to Trinidad and Tobago for the second leg of his visit, scheduled from July 3 to July 4.

    This was PM Modi’s first visit to the West African nation and the first by an Indian Prime Minister to Ghana in over three decades.

    Before his departure, the PM interacted with members of the Indian diaspora, who welcomed him warmly.

    In Accra, PM Modi held delegation-level talks with Ghana’s President, John Mahama, to review the bilateral partnership and discuss ways to enhance cooperation in sectors such as economy, energy, defence and development.

    During talks with President Mahama, PM Modi announced the elevation of ties to a Comprehensive Partnership, citing “immense scope” for collaboration in critical minerals, defence, maritime security and energy.

    In a post on X, the PM said, “India and Ghana also see immense scope in working closely in areas such as critical minerals, defence, maritime security and energy. Enhancing cultural linkages was also discussed.”

    Describing the talks as “extremely fruitful”, PM Modi said the discussions focused on strengthening trade and economic ties. “We discussed ways to improve trade and economic linkages. Cooperation in FinTech, skill development, healthcare and other such sectors were also deliberated upon,” the PM added.

    During the visit, the Prime Minister was conferred with the “Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana”, the country’s highest civilian honour, by President Mahama.

    PM Modi thanked Ghana for the award, calling it a “matter of immense pride”. “It is a matter of great pride and honour for me to be conferred with Ghana’s national award, The Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana, by the President. I express my heartfelt gratitude to President Mahama ji, the Government of Ghana and the people of Ghana. I humbly accept this honour on behalf of 1.4 billion Indians,” he said.

    PM Modi dedicated the honour to the youth of both countries, saying, “I dedicate this award to the aspirations of our youth, their bright future, our rich cultural diversity and traditions, and the historic ties between India and Ghana.”

    The PM also addressed Ghana’s Parliament, where he described the relationship between India and Ghana as boundless, and said the friendship between the two nations was “sweeter than Ghana’s famous Sugar Loaf Pineapple”.

    Additionally, the PM visited the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park in Accra to pay tribute to Ghana’s founding President and a leading figure in Africa’s independence movement.

    PM Modi’s visit to Trinidad and Tobago will be his first as Prime Minister and marks the first bilateral Prime Ministerial visit to the country since 1999.

    The Prime Minister will also visit Argentina, Brazil and Namibia as part of his tour. He will travel to Brazil from July 5 to 8 to attend the 17th BRICS Summit 2025, before proceeding on a state visit to the South American nation.

    (ANI)

  • PM Modi leaves for Trinidad and Tobago after concluding two-day Ghana visit

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday departed from Ghana’s capital, Accra, after concluding the first leg of his five-nation tour. He will now travel to Trinidad and Tobago for the second leg of his visit, scheduled from July 3 to July 4.

    This was PM Modi’s first visit to the West African nation and the first by an Indian Prime Minister to Ghana in over three decades.

    Before his departure, the PM interacted with members of the Indian diaspora, who welcomed him warmly.

    In Accra, PM Modi held delegation-level talks with Ghana’s President, John Mahama, to review the bilateral partnership and discuss ways to enhance cooperation in sectors such as economy, energy, defence and development.

    During talks with President Mahama, PM Modi announced the elevation of ties to a Comprehensive Partnership, citing “immense scope” for collaboration in critical minerals, defence, maritime security and energy.

    In a post on X, the PM said, “India and Ghana also see immense scope in working closely in areas such as critical minerals, defence, maritime security and energy. Enhancing cultural linkages was also discussed.”

    Describing the talks as “extremely fruitful”, PM Modi said the discussions focused on strengthening trade and economic ties. “We discussed ways to improve trade and economic linkages. Cooperation in FinTech, skill development, healthcare and other such sectors were also deliberated upon,” the PM added.

    During the visit, the Prime Minister was conferred with the “Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana”, the country’s highest civilian honour, by President Mahama.

    PM Modi thanked Ghana for the award, calling it a “matter of immense pride”. “It is a matter of great pride and honour for me to be conferred with Ghana’s national award, The Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana, by the President. I express my heartfelt gratitude to President Mahama ji, the Government of Ghana and the people of Ghana. I humbly accept this honour on behalf of 1.4 billion Indians,” he said.

    PM Modi dedicated the honour to the youth of both countries, saying, “I dedicate this award to the aspirations of our youth, their bright future, our rich cultural diversity and traditions, and the historic ties between India and Ghana.”

    The PM also addressed Ghana’s Parliament, where he described the relationship between India and Ghana as boundless, and said the friendship between the two nations was “sweeter than Ghana’s famous Sugar Loaf Pineapple”.

    Additionally, the PM visited the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park in Accra to pay tribute to Ghana’s founding President and a leading figure in Africa’s independence movement.

    PM Modi’s visit to Trinidad and Tobago will be his first as Prime Minister and marks the first bilateral Prime Ministerial visit to the country since 1999.

    The Prime Minister will also visit Argentina, Brazil and Namibia as part of his tour. He will travel to Brazil from July 5 to 8 to attend the 17th BRICS Summit 2025, before proceeding on a state visit to the South American nation.

    (ANI)

  • PM Modi leaves for Trinidad and Tobago after concluding two-day Ghana visit

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday departed from Ghana’s capital, Accra, after concluding the first leg of his five-nation tour. He will now travel to Trinidad and Tobago for the second leg of his visit, scheduled from July 3 to July 4.

    This was PM Modi’s first visit to the West African nation and the first by an Indian Prime Minister to Ghana in over three decades.

    Before his departure, the PM interacted with members of the Indian diaspora, who welcomed him warmly.

    In Accra, PM Modi held delegation-level talks with Ghana’s President, John Mahama, to review the bilateral partnership and discuss ways to enhance cooperation in sectors such as economy, energy, defence and development.

    During talks with President Mahama, PM Modi announced the elevation of ties to a Comprehensive Partnership, citing “immense scope” for collaboration in critical minerals, defence, maritime security and energy.

    In a post on X, the PM said, “India and Ghana also see immense scope in working closely in areas such as critical minerals, defence, maritime security and energy. Enhancing cultural linkages was also discussed.”

    Describing the talks as “extremely fruitful”, PM Modi said the discussions focused on strengthening trade and economic ties. “We discussed ways to improve trade and economic linkages. Cooperation in FinTech, skill development, healthcare and other such sectors were also deliberated upon,” the PM added.

    During the visit, the Prime Minister was conferred with the “Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana”, the country’s highest civilian honour, by President Mahama.

    PM Modi thanked Ghana for the award, calling it a “matter of immense pride”. “It is a matter of great pride and honour for me to be conferred with Ghana’s national award, The Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana, by the President. I express my heartfelt gratitude to President Mahama ji, the Government of Ghana and the people of Ghana. I humbly accept this honour on behalf of 1.4 billion Indians,” he said.

    PM Modi dedicated the honour to the youth of both countries, saying, “I dedicate this award to the aspirations of our youth, their bright future, our rich cultural diversity and traditions, and the historic ties between India and Ghana.”

    The PM also addressed Ghana’s Parliament, where he described the relationship between India and Ghana as boundless, and said the friendship between the two nations was “sweeter than Ghana’s famous Sugar Loaf Pineapple”.

    Additionally, the PM visited the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park in Accra to pay tribute to Ghana’s founding President and a leading figure in Africa’s independence movement.

    PM Modi’s visit to Trinidad and Tobago will be his first as Prime Minister and marks the first bilateral Prime Ministerial visit to the country since 1999.

    The Prime Minister will also visit Argentina, Brazil and Namibia as part of his tour. He will travel to Brazil from July 5 to 8 to attend the 17th BRICS Summit 2025, before proceeding on a state visit to the South American nation.

    (ANI)

  • PM Modi leaves for Trinidad and Tobago after concluding two-day Ghana visit

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday departed from Ghana’s capital, Accra, after concluding the first leg of his five-nation tour. He will now travel to Trinidad and Tobago for the second leg of his visit, scheduled from July 3 to July 4.

    This was PM Modi’s first visit to the West African nation and the first by an Indian Prime Minister to Ghana in over three decades.

    Before his departure, the PM interacted with members of the Indian diaspora, who welcomed him warmly.

    In Accra, PM Modi held delegation-level talks with Ghana’s President, John Mahama, to review the bilateral partnership and discuss ways to enhance cooperation in sectors such as economy, energy, defence and development.

    During talks with President Mahama, PM Modi announced the elevation of ties to a Comprehensive Partnership, citing “immense scope” for collaboration in critical minerals, defence, maritime security and energy.

    In a post on X, the PM said, “India and Ghana also see immense scope in working closely in areas such as critical minerals, defence, maritime security and energy. Enhancing cultural linkages was also discussed.”

    Describing the talks as “extremely fruitful”, PM Modi said the discussions focused on strengthening trade and economic ties. “We discussed ways to improve trade and economic linkages. Cooperation in FinTech, skill development, healthcare and other such sectors were also deliberated upon,” the PM added.

    During the visit, the Prime Minister was conferred with the “Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana”, the country’s highest civilian honour, by President Mahama.

    PM Modi thanked Ghana for the award, calling it a “matter of immense pride”. “It is a matter of great pride and honour for me to be conferred with Ghana’s national award, The Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana, by the President. I express my heartfelt gratitude to President Mahama ji, the Government of Ghana and the people of Ghana. I humbly accept this honour on behalf of 1.4 billion Indians,” he said.

    PM Modi dedicated the honour to the youth of both countries, saying, “I dedicate this award to the aspirations of our youth, their bright future, our rich cultural diversity and traditions, and the historic ties between India and Ghana.”

    The PM also addressed Ghana’s Parliament, where he described the relationship between India and Ghana as boundless, and said the friendship between the two nations was “sweeter than Ghana’s famous Sugar Loaf Pineapple”.

    Additionally, the PM visited the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park in Accra to pay tribute to Ghana’s founding President and a leading figure in Africa’s independence movement.

    PM Modi’s visit to Trinidad and Tobago will be his first as Prime Minister and marks the first bilateral Prime Ministerial visit to the country since 1999.

    The Prime Minister will also visit Argentina, Brazil and Namibia as part of his tour. He will travel to Brazil from July 5 to 8 to attend the 17th BRICS Summit 2025, before proceeding on a state visit to the South American nation.

    (ANI)

  • PM Modi leaves for Trinidad and Tobago after concluding two-day Ghana visit

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday departed from Ghana’s capital, Accra, after concluding the first leg of his five-nation tour. He will now travel to Trinidad and Tobago for the second leg of his visit, scheduled from July 3 to July 4.

    This was PM Modi’s first visit to the West African nation and the first by an Indian Prime Minister to Ghana in over three decades.

    Before his departure, the PM interacted with members of the Indian diaspora, who welcomed him warmly.

    In Accra, PM Modi held delegation-level talks with Ghana’s President, John Mahama, to review the bilateral partnership and discuss ways to enhance cooperation in sectors such as economy, energy, defence and development.

    During talks with President Mahama, PM Modi announced the elevation of ties to a Comprehensive Partnership, citing “immense scope” for collaboration in critical minerals, defence, maritime security and energy.

    In a post on X, the PM said, “India and Ghana also see immense scope in working closely in areas such as critical minerals, defence, maritime security and energy. Enhancing cultural linkages was also discussed.”

    Describing the talks as “extremely fruitful”, PM Modi said the discussions focused on strengthening trade and economic ties. “We discussed ways to improve trade and economic linkages. Cooperation in FinTech, skill development, healthcare and other such sectors were also deliberated upon,” the PM added.

    During the visit, the Prime Minister was conferred with the “Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana”, the country’s highest civilian honour, by President Mahama.

    PM Modi thanked Ghana for the award, calling it a “matter of immense pride”. “It is a matter of great pride and honour for me to be conferred with Ghana’s national award, The Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana, by the President. I express my heartfelt gratitude to President Mahama ji, the Government of Ghana and the people of Ghana. I humbly accept this honour on behalf of 1.4 billion Indians,” he said.

    PM Modi dedicated the honour to the youth of both countries, saying, “I dedicate this award to the aspirations of our youth, their bright future, our rich cultural diversity and traditions, and the historic ties between India and Ghana.”

    The PM also addressed Ghana’s Parliament, where he described the relationship between India and Ghana as boundless, and said the friendship between the two nations was “sweeter than Ghana’s famous Sugar Loaf Pineapple”.

    Additionally, the PM visited the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park in Accra to pay tribute to Ghana’s founding President and a leading figure in Africa’s independence movement.

    PM Modi’s visit to Trinidad and Tobago will be his first as Prime Minister and marks the first bilateral Prime Ministerial visit to the country since 1999.

    The Prime Minister will also visit Argentina, Brazil and Namibia as part of his tour. He will travel to Brazil from July 5 to 8 to attend the 17th BRICS Summit 2025, before proceeding on a state visit to the South American nation.

    (ANI)

  • PM Modi leaves for Trinidad and Tobago after concluding two-day Ghana visit

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday departed from Ghana’s capital, Accra, after concluding the first leg of his five-nation tour. He will now travel to Trinidad and Tobago for the second leg of his visit, scheduled from July 3 to July 4.

    This was PM Modi’s first visit to the West African nation and the first by an Indian Prime Minister to Ghana in over three decades.

    Before his departure, the PM interacted with members of the Indian diaspora, who welcomed him warmly.

    In Accra, PM Modi held delegation-level talks with Ghana’s President, John Mahama, to review the bilateral partnership and discuss ways to enhance cooperation in sectors such as economy, energy, defence and development.

    During talks with President Mahama, PM Modi announced the elevation of ties to a Comprehensive Partnership, citing “immense scope” for collaboration in critical minerals, defence, maritime security and energy.

    In a post on X, the PM said, “India and Ghana also see immense scope in working closely in areas such as critical minerals, defence, maritime security and energy. Enhancing cultural linkages was also discussed.”

    Describing the talks as “extremely fruitful”, PM Modi said the discussions focused on strengthening trade and economic ties. “We discussed ways to improve trade and economic linkages. Cooperation in FinTech, skill development, healthcare and other such sectors were also deliberated upon,” the PM added.

    During the visit, the Prime Minister was conferred with the “Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana”, the country’s highest civilian honour, by President Mahama.

    PM Modi thanked Ghana for the award, calling it a “matter of immense pride”. “It is a matter of great pride and honour for me to be conferred with Ghana’s national award, The Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana, by the President. I express my heartfelt gratitude to President Mahama ji, the Government of Ghana and the people of Ghana. I humbly accept this honour on behalf of 1.4 billion Indians,” he said.

    PM Modi dedicated the honour to the youth of both countries, saying, “I dedicate this award to the aspirations of our youth, their bright future, our rich cultural diversity and traditions, and the historic ties between India and Ghana.”

    The PM also addressed Ghana’s Parliament, where he described the relationship between India and Ghana as boundless, and said the friendship between the two nations was “sweeter than Ghana’s famous Sugar Loaf Pineapple”.

    Additionally, the PM visited the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park in Accra to pay tribute to Ghana’s founding President and a leading figure in Africa’s independence movement.

    PM Modi’s visit to Trinidad and Tobago will be his first as Prime Minister and marks the first bilateral Prime Ministerial visit to the country since 1999.

    The Prime Minister will also visit Argentina, Brazil and Namibia as part of his tour. He will travel to Brazil from July 5 to 8 to attend the 17th BRICS Summit 2025, before proceeding on a state visit to the South American nation.

    (ANI)

  • MIL-OSI China: Hainan draws global tourists with visa-free travel, streamlined tax refunds

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

    Hainan draws global tourists with visa-free travel, streamlined tax refunds

    Updated: July 3, 2025 21:44 Xinhua

    China’s tropical island province of Hainan is becoming a “shopping paradise” for international travelers, boosted by expanding visa-free entry policy and hassle-free tax refunds.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Hainan draws global tourists with visa-free travel, streamlined tax refunds

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

    Hainan draws global tourists with visa-free travel, streamlined tax refunds

    Updated: July 3, 2025 21:44 Xinhua

    China’s tropical island province of Hainan is becoming a “shopping paradise” for international travelers, boosted by expanding visa-free entry policy and hassle-free tax refunds.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Environment Secretary Steve Reed: Groundswell Show speech

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    Environment Secretary Steve Reed: Groundswell Show speech

    Speech by Environment Secretary Steve Reed at the 2025 Groundswell Show.

    It’s fantastic to be with you all here today. I’m delighted to have this opportunity to speak to so many people.

    It’s exciting to be here at Groundswell with the pioneers and innovators who are shaping the future of British farming.

    I’ve really been looking forward to coming to Groundswell because I know this is where the big ideas are taking shape. 

    You’re confronting the challenges of the future by drawing on the power of the past, looking at how we can use regenerative agriculture to shape the future of farming, and inspiring others to get involved in those approaches.

    You’ve been the ones to break the mould, championing the vital role of nature in sustainable food production from the start – the pioneers of an agricultural transition that must be just and must recognise the importance of community and tradition as we shape that future.

    Protecting British food security has never been more important. We’ve just had our warmest spring on record. Flooding is on the rise. Geopolitical events are threatening global food supply chains.

    Food security is national security. And you, more than anyone, know it’s only by restoring nature that we can make our food secure.

    Restoring nature is central to the Government’s approach.

    In the Spending Review, we committed to spend £2.7 billion a year on sustainable farming and nature’s recovery over the next three years.

    Funding for farmers through the Environmental Land Management schemes will increase by 150 per cent to £2 billion by 2029. And a further £400 million will be available from other nature schemes, including projects for tree planting and peatland restoration.

    This is the biggest financial investment in nature-friendly farming in our country’s history.

    Take a moment to compare this to 2017, when Groundswell first started. Back then, £350 million was invested into ELMs’ predecessor.

    Thanks to your efforts, nature-friendly farming has come a very long way in the past nine years.

    There are now over 39,000 SFI agreements producing fantastic results for nature. That’s something to celebrate. 

    [Political line removed]

    We’ve got the money out the door into farmers’ bank accounts, and I’m proud of that. But once you’ve spent a budget, you can’t keep spending it or you damage the economy, and we’re not doing that.

    Those farmers who missed out at the time the scheme closed to new applicants will be able to make claims once it reopens. But budgets can’t be unlimited, so we need to make sure we focus that public money where it’s going to make the biggest impact. 

    Farms are businesses, and all businesses need to be profitable to survive. I see it as central to my job to help make farming profitable. 

    I firmly believe the Sustainable Farming Incentive and ELMs are the best tools to support farmers’ transition to sustainable food production and to profitability.

    Later this summer, I will provide more details of our reformed SFI offer. We are working with farmers to shape the scheme, which will start accepting applications in the new year.

    We need to return firmly to the principle of public money for public goods.

    Our reformed SFI will maximise benefits for the environment, particularly around water quality and biodiversity, so we can clean up our polluted rivers, welcome wildlife back to farms, and strengthen the natural foundations that are vital to sustainable food production.

    We will simplify the SFI and support farmers to take on packages of actions which, when done together, achieve more for nature. And I know we need to upgrade the IT system so it’s easier for farmers to submit applications.

    That is part of my broader plan to rewire and reset Defra, to remove the bureaucracy and barriers that stand in the way of people getting the support they need.

    More environmental benefits, a simpler offer, supporting farmers through the transition, a focus on profitability, and visibility of the overall budget so we get it out the door and you know when it’s going to be fully allocated.

    This will be the shape of our reformed SFI.

    We’re also reopening our Capital Grants offer today – with £150 million in the latest round to invest in nature-friendly farming.

    That includes funding to plant hedgerows, buy equipment that will help clean up our rivers, or restore habitats that support biodiversity.

    Farmers and land managers can apply for a total of 78 items under the latest round, including four new items on woodland condition, wildlife management, stone walls and educational visits.

    We’ve taken time to assess and improve our offer. Putting funding limits on certain actions will ensure we manage budgets fairly so we can open the grants over a longer period of time.

    The SFI and Capital Grants form part of a much wider reset for farming.

    We want to support farmers to run profitable and financially resilient businesses that produce nutritious, high-quality food and other produce, and help to restore nature at the same time.

    Our 25-Year Farming Roadmap will outline our shared vision for the sector and set the direction for how we get there. It will give farmers clarity, stability and transparency.

    This will be a transition led by farm businesses, drawing on your experiences and your expertise.

    With government as the enabler, but farmers as the leaders.

    We’ve seen how effective farm clusters can be in supporting nature over a wider area – an initiative led by the sector which the Government can support.

    I’ve asked Baroness Minette Batters, former NFU President, to lead a review into how we can boost farm profitability – and she has written to the sector to get your ideas to inform the review.

    And we’re continuing to work with the Farm Tenancy Forum to ensure tenant farmers can access our reformed farming schemes.

    The farming sector is also leading the way on innovation.

    Agri-tech is one of our highest growth sectors, with 40 times the number of UK agri-tech businesses than we had ten years ago.

    Our ADOPT programme puts farmers in the driving seat, giving them the chance to test new technologies on their farm – such as solar panels on soft polytunnels or cultivation equipment to improve soil health in potato production. 

    Under the Government’s Industrial Strategy, we are taking this further. We’re investing over £200 million in the Farming Innovation Programme between now and 2030, as well as launching an Agri-Tech Export Accelerator Programme to help agri-tech businesses identify the best international markets.

    It’s been an interesting year, and certainly far from always straightforward.

    But we are now at a point where we can make things work better for farmers, food production and nature. I strongly believe in nature-positive farming. It is the way we can help farming to become more sustainable and successful both environmentally and financially.   

    You are the pioneers. I’m here to learn. Together we can give farming the bright and exciting future it, and our countryside, needs and deserves.

    Updates to this page

    Published 3 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Construction industry joins hands with education sector to promote STEAM education (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The launching ceremony of the Infrastructure x Education Exhibition and the first phase of achievement of the STEAM UP project, jointly organised by the Development Bureau and the Construction Industry Council (CIC), was held today (July 3). This is the first time for the construction industry to collaborate with the education sector to organise a large-scale exhibition featuring infrastructure projects in Hong Kong to promote STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) education related to the construction industry, thereby helping students apply STEAM knowledge through practical examples of infrastructure projects and encouraging the younger generation to join the construction industry.

         Speaking at the launching ceremony, the Secretary for Development, Ms Bernadette Linn, said that the construction industry and infrastructure involve many STEAM elements. The construction industry joins hands with the education sector to launch STEAM learning and teaching materials, which can make learning more effective. She hoped that, through this exhibition, infrastructure can tell the good stories of Hong Kong and share STEAM knowledge, which arouses students’ interest towards the construction industry and the exploration of STEAM knowledge.

         Other officiating guests at the launching ceremony were the Permanent Secretary for Development (Works), Mr Ricky Lau; the Under Secretary for Education, Dr Sze Chun-fai; the Chairman of the CIC, Professor Thomas Ho; the Executive Director of the CIC, Mr Albert Cheng; and the Executive Director of Hong Kong Education City, Dr Tenny Lam.

         Hong Kong’s first 3-dimensional Infrastructure Map supporting STEAM education was launched at the ceremony, introducing 32 types of infrastructure projects in Hong Kong and the related STEAM knowledge. The Infrastructure Map will be exhibited in various districts in Hong Kong in the future to let members of the public understand the edges of the infrastructure of Hong Kong.
     
         The first set of architecture-themed learning and teaching materials of the STEAM UP project, including teachers’ lesson plans and teaching materials, as well as story books, games and e-learning platforms for students, was also rolled out at the ceremony, offering all-round support to STEAM education in schools. Another eight sets of learning and teaching materials, covering aspects of architecture, surveying, planning, landscape architecture and engineering, will be launched progressively for use in classrooms in primary and secondary schools in Hong Kong starting from 2025/26 school year.

         Ten thematic zones are set up in the exhibition. In addition to the aforementioned two major projects, the exhibition also introduces the work, career paths and development prospect of various professional fields in the construction industry, helping students plan their careers. Interactive games with construction robots are also available.

         A series of talks are also organised in the exhibition, where speakers from government departments, tertiary institutions, training institutions, professional institutes and trade associations discuss topics covering innovative technology, Building Information Modelling, artificial intelligence, Modular Integrated Construction, Multi-trade integrated Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing, etc.

         The Infrastructure x Education Exhibition is part of the Learning & Teaching Expo 2025 being held from July 2 to 4, at Booth R01, Hall 3B, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Expo Drive, Wan Chai. For more information about the exhibition, please visit: https://www.constructionhk.org/en/infrastructure-education/.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Construction industry joins hands with education sector to promote STEAM education (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The launching ceremony of the Infrastructure x Education Exhibition and the first phase of achievement of the STEAM UP project, jointly organised by the Development Bureau and the Construction Industry Council (CIC), was held today (July 3). This is the first time for the construction industry to collaborate with the education sector to organise a large-scale exhibition featuring infrastructure projects in Hong Kong to promote STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) education related to the construction industry, thereby helping students apply STEAM knowledge through practical examples of infrastructure projects and encouraging the younger generation to join the construction industry.

         Speaking at the launching ceremony, the Secretary for Development, Ms Bernadette Linn, said that the construction industry and infrastructure involve many STEAM elements. The construction industry joins hands with the education sector to launch STEAM learning and teaching materials, which can make learning more effective. She hoped that, through this exhibition, infrastructure can tell the good stories of Hong Kong and share STEAM knowledge, which arouses students’ interest towards the construction industry and the exploration of STEAM knowledge.

         Other officiating guests at the launching ceremony were the Permanent Secretary for Development (Works), Mr Ricky Lau; the Under Secretary for Education, Dr Sze Chun-fai; the Chairman of the CIC, Professor Thomas Ho; the Executive Director of the CIC, Mr Albert Cheng; and the Executive Director of Hong Kong Education City, Dr Tenny Lam.

         Hong Kong’s first 3-dimensional Infrastructure Map supporting STEAM education was launched at the ceremony, introducing 32 types of infrastructure projects in Hong Kong and the related STEAM knowledge. The Infrastructure Map will be exhibited in various districts in Hong Kong in the future to let members of the public understand the edges of the infrastructure of Hong Kong.
     
         The first set of architecture-themed learning and teaching materials of the STEAM UP project, including teachers’ lesson plans and teaching materials, as well as story books, games and e-learning platforms for students, was also rolled out at the ceremony, offering all-round support to STEAM education in schools. Another eight sets of learning and teaching materials, covering aspects of architecture, surveying, planning, landscape architecture and engineering, will be launched progressively for use in classrooms in primary and secondary schools in Hong Kong starting from 2025/26 school year.

         Ten thematic zones are set up in the exhibition. In addition to the aforementioned two major projects, the exhibition also introduces the work, career paths and development prospect of various professional fields in the construction industry, helping students plan their careers. Interactive games with construction robots are also available.

         A series of talks are also organised in the exhibition, where speakers from government departments, tertiary institutions, training institutions, professional institutes and trade associations discuss topics covering innovative technology, Building Information Modelling, artificial intelligence, Modular Integrated Construction, Multi-trade integrated Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing, etc.

         The Infrastructure x Education Exhibition is part of the Learning & Teaching Expo 2025 being held from July 2 to 4, at Booth R01, Hall 3B, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Expo Drive, Wan Chai. For more information about the exhibition, please visit: https://www.constructionhk.org/en/infrastructure-education/.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –