Category: DJF

MIL-OSI Africa: Red Cross and Red Crescent network supports the African Union and its Member States’ commitment to eliminate cholera by 2030
Source: APO – Report:

.

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), in collaboration with its African National Society members, fully supports the African Union (AU) and its member states in their efforts to eliminate cholera across the continent. 

Forged during a high-level meeting of AU member states in June, this new commitment centers on strengthening community-based health services and epidemic preparedness, working closely with local communities to achieve lasting solutions.

The IFRC commends the leadership and united commitment demonstrated by the Heads of State, Government, and Delegations, who gathered in June under the AU’s framework to advance a strong and coordinated response to the ongoing multi-country cholera outbreaks, which in 2025 are affecting approximately 20 Member States.

The IFRC and its African National Society members, fully endorse the priorities outlined in the Call-to-Action to End Cholera and Achieve Elimination by 2030 with particular emphasis on:

• strengthening national and regional preparedness,

• scaling up investments in sustainable water, sanitation and health (WASH) infrastructure,

• placing communities and civil society at the heart of cholera elimination agenda.

A deep community presence

As auxiliary partners to public authorities in the humanitarian field, Red Cross Red Crescent National Societies in Africa bring unique value through their deep community presence, trusted local networks, and mandate to complement government action.

With operations in all AU Member States, the IFRC and its African National Society members are uniquely positioned to deliver localised, people-centred responses that translate policy commitments into life-saving action.

Recognising the cross-cutting impacts of cholera on already strained health systems—the Red Cross Red Crescent Network has scaled up its efforts to prevent, detect, and respond to outbreaks through high-impact, community-driven interventions such as:
- Community-based Oral Rehydration Therapy (ORT): Delivered at the household level via Oral Rehydration Points (ORPs), ensuring timely access to lifesaving care.
- Emergency water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) interventions: Implemented in affected households and surrounding areas to stop transmission.
- Support to Oral Cholera Vaccination (OCV) campaigns: Including community mobilization, social mobilization, and logistics assistance.
- Risk Communication and Community Engagement (RCCE): Embedded across all pillars of response to promote behaviour change, drive surveillance, and enable early action.
- Cross-border collaboration facilitated to prevent, control and recover from cholera outbreaks at community level in collaboration with local authorities.
In addition, the IFRC hosts the Country Support Platform (CSP), the operational arm of the Global Task Force on Cholera Control, which supports AU Member States in developing and implementing National Cholera Plans, accessing technical expertise, and mobilizing domestic and external resources.

Aligned with the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the Continental Framework for Cholera Elimination, IFRC is also investing in multi-hazard anticipatory action to prepare authorities, communities and other concerned stakeholders ahead of Cholera outbreaks.

This is done in part through the development of Early Action Protocols, systems that trigger preparatory actions before a crisis hits. Such protocols empower African National Societies to act early by pre-positioning supplies, training volunteers, and accessing forecast-based financing enabling faster, more cost-effective responses before outbreaks escalate.

With more than 3.8 million trained volunteers across Africa and a presence in every community, the Red Cross Red Crescent Network is well-positioned to bring life-saving interventions to those most at risk before, during and after outbreaks.

Together, we can eliminate Cholera

Cholera is preventable, and together, we can eliminate it. Our volunteers are trusted members of the communities they serve. Through early action, health education, and emergency interventions, we are proud to contribute to this continental ambition to eliminate cholera and protect lives.

Through these efforts, the IFRC and African National Societies reaffirm their unwavering commitment to support AU Member States in achieving national and continental targets for cholera control and elimination.

The IFRC is dedicated to working hand-in-hand with the African Union Commission, Africa CDC, Member States, and other partners to build resilient health systems, empower communities, and end cholera as a threat to public health and development across the continent.

Together, we can defeat cholera and ensure that no one is left behind.

– on behalf of International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC).

MIL OSI Africa –
July 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Benin’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Meets with Qatari Chargé d’Affaires

Source: APO – Report:

.

His Excellency Mr. Olishegone Ajadi Bakary, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Benin, met with Mr. Safar bin Mohammed Al-Hajri, Chargé d’Affaires at the Embassy of the State of Qatar in Benin.

During the meeting, they reviewed the cooperative relations between the two countries.

– on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of The State of Qatar.

MIL OSI Africa –

July 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Eritrea: Meeting of National Union of Eritrean Women (NUEW) Executive Board

Source: APO – Report:

.

The Executive Board of the National Union of Eritrean Women conducted a meeting on 1 and 2 July to review the implementation of programs during the first half of this year and to discuss plans for the second half. The meeting was attended by heads of departments and regional office of the union.

During the meeting, the board held extensive discussions focusing on activities aimed at enhancing organizational capacity—particularly among young women—strengthening the Union’s economic capacity, vocational training programs designed to improve women’s skills, progress in development programs, and the role of mass media in raising overall awareness among women.

Ms. Tekea Tesfamicael, President of the National Union of Eritrean Women, commended the successful implementation of various activities over the past six months and called for strengthened participation in executing programs scheduled for the second half of the year.

The board stressed the importance of reinforcing ongoing efforts, including enhancing the organizational capacity of women and promoting their active participation and awareness.

The meeting concluded with several recommendations, including organizing training on financial and material management and reporting, completing the renovation of Union buildings, and establishing an official website for the Union, among other initiatives.

– on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.

MIL OSI Africa –

July 3, 2025

MIL-OSI Africa: International Monetary Fund (IMF) Executive Board Completes the First Review under the Extended Credit Facility Arrangement for the Democratic Republic of the Congo

Source: APO – Report:

The IMF Executive Board has completed the first review under the Extended Credit Facility arrangement for the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The decision allows for an immediate disbursement of US$ 261.9 million towards international reserves, to continue building buffers.
The DRC’s economy has been resilient in a challenging environment amid the escalation of the armed conflict in the eastern part of the country, which placed significant strains on the budget. The authorities have made good progress on the structural reform’s agenda, but a few quantitative targets were missed.
The recent peace agreement signed between the governments of the DRC and Rwanda, mediated by the United States, is encouraging for the prospect of a peaceful resolution of the conflict and renewed focus on development goals.

The Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) completed the first review under the Extended Credit Facility (ECF) Arrangement for the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) approved on January 15, 2025 (see PR 25/003). The completion of the first review allowed an immediate disbursement equivalent to 190.4 million SDR (about US$ 261.9 million) to support balance-of-payment needs, bringing the aggregate disbursement to date to 380.5 million SDR (about 523.4 US$ million).

The DRC has been facing significant challenges amid the intensification of the armed conflict in its eastern part since end-2024. The escalation of hostilities has claimed thousands of lives and caused severe social and humanitarian damages, including disruptions in access to essential services such as food, water, and electricity. Diplomatic efforts are ongoing to secure a cessation of hostilities and ensure sustainable peace in the region. The signing on June 27, 2025, of a peace agreement between the governments of the DRC and Rwanda, under the mediation of the United States, is encouraging for the prospect of a peaceful resolution on the ongoing conflict and renewed focus on addressing development goals.

Despite the challenging environment, economic activity remained resilient, with robust GDP growth of 6.5 percent in 2024, driven by continued dynamism in the extractive sector. External stability has strengthened, as the current account deficit narrowed and the accumulation of international reserves continued. Inflationary pressures continue to ease, and year-on-year inflation declined from 23.8 percent at end-2023 to 11.7 percent at end-2024 and [8.5] percent at end-June 2025.

Performance under the program was mixed, as the intensification of the conflict has placed significant strains on the budget. Despite strong revenue collection, the domestic fiscal deficit reached 0.8 percent of GDP in 2024, exceeding the program target of 0.3 percent, owing to spending overruns linked to the escalation of the conflict, including on exceptional security spending and public investments. The program target on the Central Bank of the Congo (BCC)’s foreign exchange assets held with domestic correspondents was missed as well, due to higher-than-expected tax payments in foreign currency on government accounts. Other quantitative performance criteria of the ECF were met. Most indicative targets were also met, except those related to the floor on social spending and the ceiling on spending executed through emergency procedures—owing to elevated exceptional security spending linked to the conflict intensification. Appropriate corrective measures are being implemented by the authorities.

In completing the first review, the Executive Board also approved the authorities’ request for waivers of nonobservance of the performance criteria on the floor on the domestic fiscal balance at end-December 2024 on the basis of corrective actions, and the continuous ceiling on the levels of foreign currency assets of the BCC held with domestic correspondents on the basis of the temporary nature of the deviation which has since been remedied. Further, the Executive Board completed the financing assurances review under the ECF arrangement. No reform measures under the Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF) arrangement, approved in January 2025, were due for review at this time.

At the conclusion of the Executive Board’s discussion, Mr. Okamura, Deputy Managing Director and Chair stated:

“The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has been confronted with heightened security challenges since late 2024. The escalation of the conflict in the eastern part of the country has caused serious human, social and economic damage and induced the government to increase spending. Despite these difficulties, the macroeconomic environment of the DRC remained broadly stable. Growth has remained robust, due to the resilience of mining production. Inflation continues to decrease, and the external position has strengthened. The economic outlook remains positive, but is fraught with downside risks related to the persistence of the conflict, declining external humanitarian assistance, global economic headwinds, and potential escalation of geopolitical conflicts. The authorities are committed to closely monitor these risks and to respond proactively to evolving challenges.

“Budget implementation remains challenging in a difficult security context. As a result, the domestic fiscal deficit is projected to be larger than initially projected for 2025, but is expected to return to the path envisaged at program approval starting in 2026, reflecting the authorities’ commitment to carry out measures to enhance domestic revenue mobilization and strengthen the budget implementation process. Additionally, to guard against unforeseen adverse shocks, the authorities have adopted a contingency plan.

“The Central Bank of the Congo (BCC) has maintained a tight monetary policy stance, thereby helping bring inflation down to single digits for the first time in three years. The accumulation of international reserves has continued, on the back of the narrowing of the current account deficit. Efforts must continue, to strengthen the monetary policy implementation framework, refine the foreign exchange intervention strategy, enhance the governance and safeguards of the BCC and ensure its adequate recapitalization.

“The authorities have committed to accompany these efforts to preserve macroeconomic stability with an acceleration of structural reforms in key areas, including strengthening the AML/CFT framework, improving the business climate, enhancing transparency and governance, combating corruption and upgrading national statistics. Efforts to lay the groundwork for a timely implementation of the reform measures underpinning the RSF arrangement approved in January should be stepped up.”

Table 1. Democratic Republic of the Congo: Selected Economic and Financial Indicators, 2023-26
	2023	2024		2025		2026
	Est.	CR No. 25/023	Prel.	CR No. 25/023	Proj.	CR No. 25/023	Proj.
	(Annual percentage change, unless otherwise indicated)
GDP and prices
Real GDP	8.5	6.0	6.5	5.4	5.3	5.1	5.3
Extractive GDP	19.7	11.6	12.2	7.7	8.2	5.2	5.8
Non-extractive GDP	3.5	3.2	3.5	4.2	3.6	5.0	5.0
GDP deflator	14.4	17.4	19.9	8.8	8.2	7.4	6.7
Consumer prices, period average	19.9	17.7	17.7	8.9	8.8	7.3	7.1
Consumer prices, end of period	23.8	12.0	11.7	7.8	7.8	7.0	7.0

	(Annual change in percent of beginning-of-period broad money)
Money and credit
Net foreign assets	19.9	17.4	23.0	18.2	14.5	23.7	22.7
Net domestic assets	20.3	4.9	5.6	-3.5	-1.0	-10.9	-10.5
Domestic credit	34.3	15.4	15.2	9.9	10.5	3.7	4.2
Broad money	40.3	22.4	28.1	14.7	13.8	12.8	12.3

	(Percent of GDP, unless otherwise indicated)
Central government finance
Revenue and grants	14.8	15.6	15.2	15.0	14.8	14.9	14.9
Expenditures	16.5	16.8	16.5	16.8	17.0	16.6	16.6
Domestic fiscal balance	-1.2	-0.3	-0.8	-0.8	-1.2	-0.8	-0.8

Investment and saving
Gross national saving	9.5	9.1	9.6	12.2	11.2	13.0	12.5
Investment	15.7	14.2	13.5	15.0	14.4	15.3	14.8
Non-government	12.0	10.0	10.0	10.0	10.0	10.0	10.0

Balance of payments
Exports of goods and services	44.0	45.1	47.4	45.4	46.1	45.5	46.6
Imports of goods and services	49.9	48.9	50.3	47.3	47.5	46.9	47.0
Current account balance, incl. transfer	-6.2	-5.1	-3.9	-2.8	-3.2	-2.4	-2.4
Current account balance, excl. transfers	-7.5	-5.1	-5.0	-2.7	-3.4	-2.3	-2.6
Gross official reserves (weeks of imports)	8.2	10.0	10.1	11.5	11.8	12.7	12.8

External debt
Debt service in percent of government revenue	7.6	5.7	6.1	6.7	7.1	7.0	7.4

– on behalf of International Monetary Fund (IMF).

MIL OSI Africa –

July 3, 2025

MIL-OSI Africa: The 4th Japan-Tunisia Security and Counter-Terrorism Dialogue

Source: APO – Report:

.

On July 3, the 4th Japan-Tunisia Security and Counter-Terrorism Dialogue was held in Tokyo. At this dialogue, Mr. Hiroyuki MINAMI, Representative of the Government of Japan (Ambassador in charge of International Cooperation for Countering Terrorism and International Organized Crime, Ministry of Foreign Affairs), and Admiral Abderraouf ATALLAH, Senior Advisor to the President of the Republic of Tunisia, served as representatives for their respective governments.

During the dialogue, the two sides discussed the international and regional security environment, including the terrorist threat, counter-terrorism measures in both countries, and possibilities for cooperation between the two countries in the fields of counter-terrorism, public safety, and security.

– on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan.

MIL OSI Africa –

July 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Eritrea: Seminar on Food Safety in Gash Barka

Source: APO – Report:

.

The regulatory service in the Gash Barka Region has conducted seminars on food safety for both humans and animals, targeting farmers and owners of social service-providing institutions in the sub-zones of Sel’a, Kerkebet, Laelai Gash, Gogni, and Mogolo.

At the seminars, Mr. Meaze Neguse, an animal resources regulatory expert, warned that unsafe food could endanger the lives of both humans and animals. He emphasized the need for safety and cleanliness throughout the entire food production chain—from farm to consumer—and highlighted the direct link between food safety and environmental protection. He urged all stakeholders in food processing and supply to collaborate with regulatory experts.

Mr. Hadish Gebremeskel, from the plant regulatory service, gave an extensive briefing on the direct and indirect adverse effects of improper pesticide use. He pointed out the critical consequences of using unapproved or unsafe agricultural medicines without consulting experts, stressing that such practices harm both the environment as well humans and animals. He encouraged farmers to use only approved pesticides and to adopt natural production systems.

Sub-zone administrators, for their part, stated that the seminars significantly contribute to the goal of “Ensuring Nutritious Food for All and Everywhere.” They called on farmers and food processing enterprises to apply the knowledge gained through the training in their daily operations.

– on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.

MIL OSI Africa –

July 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Video: UK Protecting our natural marine environments | Inside Lords Questions

Source: United Kingdom UK House of Lords (video statements)

Will the government ban destructive fishing methods and protect natural marine environments?

In the latest episode of Inside Lords Questions, we catch up with Baroness Sugg who recently pressed the government on whether it plans to ban bottom trawling and dredging in marine protected areas. Find out why she raised the question and what she wants to see the government do about it.

Watch the full question to hear from other Lords members on the topic and see how the government responded https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q-yhktZr16s

Bottom trawling is a fishing method that drags large nets along the seafloor. Sir David Attenborough recently drew attention to the impact of this practice on areas of seabed and marine life in his new documentary ‘Ocean’.

Look out for more episodes of Inside Lords Questions where we’ll speak to different members about the questions they raise to government. Catch up on previous episodes https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLilBYVf0P9abs7iH2ILMKNy1zWa5xHFB5

Catch-up on House of Lords business:

Watch live events: https://parliamentlive.tv/Lords
Read the latest news: https://www.parliament.uk/lords/

Stay up to date with the House of Lords on social media:

• X: https://twitter.com/UKHouseofLords
• Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/houseoflords.parliament.uk
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/UKHouseofLords/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UKHouseofLords
• Flickr: https://flickr.com/photos/ukhouseoflords/albums
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-house-of-lords
• Threads: https://www.threads.net/@UKHouseOfLords

#HouseOfLords #UKParliament

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9RNzZLGEeUg

MIL OSI Video –

July 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Government acknowledges additional suffering of children placed in care

Source: Government of the Netherlands

News item | 30-06-2025 | 14:00

The government recognises the additional distress that children experienced due to both the benefits scandal and subsequent care orders. In a letter to the House of Representatives, Minister Struycken (Legal Protection), Minister Palmen-Schlangen (Benefits and Redress) and Minister Tielen (Youth, Prevention and Sport) respond to the ‘Inheritance of Injustice’ report by the Hamer Commission that carried out the investigation. The government has also announced specific measures to support young people.

As Minister Struycken explains, “These young people were affected first of all by unfair claims by the Tax and Customs Administration and then by being placed in care without the causes of the problems their families were facing being sufficiently recognised. The youth care and protection system failed to prevent them being placed in care.”

Painful conclusions call for decisive action

The report shows that, in many cases, claims by the Tax and Customs Administration led to debt, poverty and stress which in turn created or exacerbated family problems. Shortcomings on the part of neighbourhood teams and youth care and protection meant that the financial causes were insufficiently identified and this resulted in care orders that might otherwise have been prevented.

In the words of Minister Palmen-Schlangen, “These young people are still burdened by the negative impact each and every day. You can rest assured that you’ve now been seen and heard and we recognise the government’s actions caused a great deal of suffering. That’s why we want to help young people with what they need most.”

Three-pronged approach: recognise, support, learn

The government acknowledges that these children have been particularly affected by its mistakes. It now wants to initiate a careful process during which it will work together with the partners and organisations involved, as well as with young people themselves, to determine how this process of recognition should be structured and implemented and apologies made. The government also wants to expand and improve the existing child support scheme.

A national support centre is going to be set up for all parents and young people who are looking for help with their mental health issues. In addition, a new scheme is going to be introduced for young people who were placed in care and who want to help with training and development. The independent Support Team, which helps aggrieved parents and children who were affected by care orders, is going to continue its work.

The government wants to learn from the mistakes made, for example by adopting an integrated family approach, strengthening legal protection in the context of youth protection and a culture change which revolves around trust in families.

Young people central to the plans

It is important to regain the trust of those families that were affected. That is why young people themselves are going to be closely involved in the process of developing the measures. They will play an active role, including in the actual implementation of those measures, for example in terms of contact with their peers or by providing information to youth welfare organisations.

Joint responsibility

The government wants to prevent families from experiencing the same kind of suffering again and it is taking the lessons from the Hamer Commission report on board. The report stresses the need to address complex problems in families in a coherent way and to make the youth sector more family orientated.

As Minister Tielen explains, “In the Youth Reform Agenda it was agreed that strong local teams should look more closely at what young people and families really need. Their situation and life experiences are key in this respect. This is an important point of departure as far as the government is concerned.”

This move is in line with the improvements in youth protection which are being made on the basis of the Future Scenario for Child and Family Protection. The government wants fewer children to be placed in care and a coherent approach to assistance.

Cooperation with chain partners

Organisations such as the Child Care and Protection Board (Raad voor de Kinderbescherming), certified institutions and the judiciary have completed their own reviews and have started introducing improvement measures.

As Minister Struycken explains, “We are adopting a joint approach. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that this suffering is never repeated and that affected children receive the support they deserve for their recovery and future.”

The government is going to inform the House of Representatives on progress with regard to all the planned measures by the end of 2025.

MIL OSI Europe News –

July 3, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Pathway to the launch of the Steel Strategy
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

News story

Pathway to the launch of the Steel Strategy

In the run-up to launching the Steel Strategy later this year, Industry Minister Sarah Jones has welcomed a series of recent wins for the sector.
This government is committed to a bright and sustainable future for steelmaking in the UK, as part of our Plan for Change.

In the run-up to launching the Steel Strategy later this year, Industry Minister Sarah Jones has welcomed a series of recent wins for the sector following government backing. The Government has taken major action on areas crucial for the sector, from trade protections and electricity costs to procurement, including:

Industrial Strategy and Spending Review

Slashing electricity costs for steel producers by cutting network charges via the Supercharger by 90%, up from 60%, as announced in our modern Industrial Strategy.

Streamlining grid access for major investment projects — including prioritising those that create high-quality jobs and deliver significant economic benefits – through a new Connections Accelerator Service.

We will work closely with the energy sector, local authorities, Welsh and Scottish Governments, trade unions, and industry to design this service, which we expect to begin operating at the end of 2025.

New powers in the Planning and Infrastructure Bill, currently before parliament, could also allow the Government to reserve grid capacity for strategically important projects, cutting waiting times and unlocking growth in key sectors.

The Industrial Strategy’s support for sectors such as Advanced Manufacturing will also increase demand for steel as a foundational product, as demand for lightweight and precision engineered steel products increases.

Confirming funding in the Spending Review for a £500 million grant to Tata Steel in Port Talbot as part of a £1.25bn transformation deal to construct an Electric Arc Furnace.

Trade

Strengthening current steel safeguard measures by slowing future increases in spikes of foreign imports, capping certain import levels and tightening country-specific limits – ensuring UK steel producers won’t be undercut while still making sure the UK has a steady and reliable supply.

Announcing our intent to launch new laws to expand our powers to respond to unfair trade practices, and guard against global turbulence in critical sectors, such as steel, as announced in the Trade Strategy.

Inviting steel producers, consumers and stakeholders across the supply chain to shape our future approach to trade measures for steel in a new call for evidence, as we continue to support the UK steel industry from unfair trading practices and strengthen the UK’s critical supply chains after the expiry of steel safeguard in June 2026.

Procurement

Changing government procurement rules, via the publication of a new Steel Public Procurement Notice, to ensure UK-made-steel is considered for all public projects and to use exemptions in buying rules to support steel makers wherever possible. This will give them access to more of the £400bn spent by the Government each year on procurement and help to protect our national security.

Publishing a pipeline of UK infrastructure projects taking place over the next few years. The 2025 data shows that over 7.5 million tonnes steel will be needed for these projects.

British Steel securing a £500m contract with Network Rail to supply over 337,000 tonnes of rail track, providing 80% of the company’s needs and helping to secure jobs.

Industry Minister Sarah Jones said:

This government recognises how vital steel is to our economy. That’s why we’re taking the decisive action needed to back the sector for the future, whether it’s slashing energy prices, strengthening government procurement or bolstering our trade defence measures.

Our upcoming Steel Strategy will set out our long-term vision for the sector and how we’ll work with industry and communities to deliver a bright, sustainable future for UK steelmaking that secures good, well-paid jobs across the country as part of our Plan for Change.

The Steel Strategy will be launched later this year, and will:

Establish a clear and ambitious long-term vision for the steel industry, in partnership with business and workers

Set out the actions needed to achieve that vision

Identify gaps in current capabilities and assess future UK steel demand, helping to inform investment decisions which will support economic growth

Set out what is needed to create a competitive business environment in the UK with the aim of attracting new private investment to expand UK steelmaking capability and capacity.

The Government will continue to work closely with the Steel Council and wider stakeholders to build on the significant positive steps we’ve taken towards the publication of the full Strategy.

You can find all our recent and upcoming announcements relating to the Steel Strategy on our GOV.UK Collection page.

Share this page

The following links open in a new tab

Share on Facebook (opens in new tab)

Share on Twitter (opens in new tab)

Updates to this page

Published 3 July 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
July 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: A number of streets and embankments will be closed in the center of Moscow on July 5

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

In connection with the holding of the “Two Rivers” bicycle race, the traffic pattern on the central embankments and adjacent streets will change.

It will be limited on one right-hand lane on July 4 from 10:00 to 23:59 and from 22:30 on July 5 to 06:00 on July 6 on Khamovnichesky Val Street when moving towards Frunzenskaya Embankment from house 14 on Khamovnichesky Val Street to Frunzenskaya Embankment. And from 15:00 on July 5 to 02:00 on July 6 – on Frunzenskaya Embankment towards Luzhnetskaya Embankment, on Prechistenskaya Embankment towards Frunzenskaya Embankment, on Kremlevskaya Embankment when moving towards Prechistenskaya Embankment and on Moskvoretskaya Embankment towards Kremlevskaya Embankment.

In addition, on July 5 from 00:01 to 22:30 it will be impossible to drive along Khamovnichesky Val Street in the direction of Frunzenskaya Embankment from house 14 on Khamovnichesky Val Street to Frunzenskaya Embankment. And from 14:30 to 22:30 traffic will be closed in the opposite direction – from the embankment to house 14.

From 16:30 to 20:30, the following central embankments will be closed to cars: Frunzenskaya, Prechistenskaya, Kremlevskaya, Moskvoretskaya, Podgorskaya, Bernikovskaya, Nikoloyamskaya, Andronyevskaya, Zolotorozhskaya, Krasnokazarmennaya, Golovinskaya, Gospitalnaya, Semenovskaya, Preobrazhenskaya, as well as Veteranov Avenue.

Parking will be temporarily prohibited on Khamovnichesky Val Street from 00:01 on July 4 until the end of the event, and from 00:01 on July 5 – in all restricted areas.

Drivers are advised to plan their route in advance, taking into account temporary traffic changes. Full details can be found on the website Traffic Management Center.

Bicycle race “Two Rivers”

The annual Cyclingrace “Two Rivers” will take place in Moscow on July 5. This unique event will bring together professional athletes and active lifestyle enthusiasts, as well as everyone who wants to experience the joy of participation, spend time with family and like-minded people.

The route will run along the two main waterways of the capital – the Moskva River and the Yauza. Participants will start and finish in Khamovniki. They will ride past the walls of the Kremlin along the picturesque embankments of Moscow through the historical districts of the city to Sokolniki and back.

For experienced athletes, a track with distances from 74 to 111 kilometers has been prepared. Only road bikes with a ram-type handlebar are allowed to participate. Amateurs can choose a race with distances of 15 and 37 kilometers. They are allowed to use any bikes except specialized models: recumbent, tandem, time trial and motorized.

At the finish line, participants will be provided with food, cold and hot drinks. To ensure safety, traffic will be temporarily closed during the bike race.

You can register for the event at official websiteIt is recommended to check the technical condition of the bicycle in advance, study the safety rules and prepare the appropriate equipment taking into account the weather conditions.

Get the latest news quickly official telegram channel the city of Moscow.

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.

Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/156221073/

MIL OSI Russia News –

July 3, 2025
Wildfire on Greek island of Crete scorches forest, forces evacuation of over 1,000

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

Hundreds of firefighters battled a blaze Thursday on Crete island, which burnt swathes of forest and olive groves and forced the evacuation of over 1,000 people, officials said, underscoring the region’s vulnerability to destructive wildfires.

At least 230 firefighters, along with 46 engines and helicopters, were deployed to contain the conflagration, which broke out a day earlier near Ierapetra townon the southeastern coast of Greece’s largest island.

Stoked by gale-force winds, the blaze reached houses and hotels, fire brigade and local officials said, with local media reporting damage to some homes but no injuries.

Scores of residents and tourists were evacuated and moved to a temporary shelter at an indoor stadium in Ierapetra. Some left Crete by boats, authorities said.

“Three settlements were evacuated and more than 1,000 left their homes. Some were taken to health centres with respiratory problems,” Crete’s deputy civil protection governor, George Tsapakos, told public broadcaster ERT.

ERT footage showed a water bomber flying over an area thick with grey smoke.

Alongside reinforcements from Athens on Thursday, firefighters fought to tame several resurgent blazes whipped up by winds, fire brigade spokesman Vassilis Vathrakogiannis said.

“There are wind gusts in the area, some measuring 9 on the Beaufort scale, which are triggering rekindling and hindering firefighting efforts,” Vathrakogiannis said.

July tended to be the most difficult month of the fire season due to high temperatures and strong winds, he said.

Greece and other countries in the Mediterranean are in an area scientists have called “a wildfire hotspot” – with blazes common during hot and dry summers. These have become more destructive in recent years, authorities say, due to a fast-changing climate.

Thousands havefled wildfires in Turkey and at least eight people have died as a result of a heatwavein Europe.

(Reuters)

July 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: June hot, relatively dry

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

June was hotter and drier than usual in Hong Kong, mainly attributed to the stronger subtropical ridge covering southeastern China, the Hong Kong Observatory said today.

The monthly mean minimum temperature of 27.1 degrees Celsius was 0.6 degrees above the norm and the fifth highest on record for June.

The monthly mean maximum temperature of 31.5 degrees Celsius and the monthly mean temperature of 28.9 degrees Celsius were 0.8 and 0.6 degrees above their corresponding norms, and both were among the seventh on record for the month.

The total rainfall in the month was 237.3mm, which was about 48% of the norm. With all six months drier than usual, the accumulated rainfall in the first half this year was only 444.4mm, about 41% of the norm and the fifth lowest on record for the same period.

It was extremely hot on June 10 with the maximum temperature soaring to 35.6 degrees Celsius, levelling the record maximum for June since records began in 1884.

Three tropical cyclones occurred over the South China Sea and the western North Pacific in June, the observatory added.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

July 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Property sales rise 12.9%

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

The Land Registry logged 7,271 sale and purchase agreements for all building units received for registration in June, up 12.9% compared with May and 38.6% higher year-on-year.

The total consideration for such agreements in June rose 33.2% from the previous month to $66.4 billion, representing a 61.6% year-on-year increase.

Of the agreements, 5,955 were for residential units, amounting to a 16.7% increase from May and a 54.4% hike from a year ago.

The total consideration for residential units was $61.1 billion, up 59.7% compared with May and 77% higher year-on-year.

There were 409,789 land register searches last month.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

July 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Heating systems in more than 600 residential buildings in the capital will be prepared for the winter period

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

This year, as part of the regional capital repair program, heating systems will be updated in more than 600 apartment buildings, which will ensure their readiness for the autumn-winter period. For this purpose, over 300 thousand heating devices will be purchased. This was reported by the Deputy Mayor of Moscow in the Government of Moscow Petr Biryukov.

“As part of the centralized purchase of heating devices for major repairs, we plan to purchase more than 300 thousand items. These are radiators, heated towel rails and convectors,” noted Petr Biryukov.

The Deputy Mayor emphasized that timely and high-quality replacement of heating devices is the key to comfort and safety in Muscovites’ apartments.

“During major repairs, all worn-out pipelines, valves, support structures, various connecting elements, heating devices in apartments and common areas are replaced. In this way, a comprehensive repair of engineering systems is carried out, which guarantees their reliable and trouble-free operation in the winter,” added Petr Biryukov.

After the replacement of heating system pipelines is completed, a comprehensive pressure test must be carried out under the supervision of the resource supplying organization.

The head of the municipal services complex explained that during major repairs, only domestic heating devices and materials that meet all the requirements of reliability and durability are used. For example, when replacing a central heating system, Russian bimetallic radiators with high energy efficiency or modern powerful convectors are installed.

The regional program for major repairs of apartment buildings being implemented in the capital corresponds to the goals and objectives of the national project “Infrastructure for life”.

Get the latest news quicklyofficial telegram channel the city of Moscow.

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.

Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/156217073/

MIL OSI Russia News –

July 3, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Earlier starts, later finishes for York’s Park and Ride
Source: City of York

First Bus and City of York Council have announced extended hours for all six of York’s Park and Ride services to support residents, commuters, visitors and York’s hospitality industry.
From 20 July, Buses to operate from 05:30am Monday-Saturday and 07:30am on Sunday

Last services to leave the city centre at 10:30pm all week

Early and late-night connections offer greater flexibility for residents, commuters and visitors

Increased frequency for school holidays and summer season

From Sunday 20 July, the first bus will leave each Park and Ride site at 5.30am. The new timings will allow shift workers and those catching early trains to use the Park and Ride, which costs just £3.90 for an adult return. For example for residents travelling out of York, five of the six sites directly serve York railway station and the first service will arrive at the station by 5.45am – Rawcliffe (2/2A), Monks Cross (9), Designer Outlet (7), Poppleton (59) and Askham Bar (3). The remaining one, Grimston (8), serves Piccadilly, in the city centre.

In the evening, the last services will leave the city centre at 10.30pm, bringing all sites up to the same time for the first and last bus.

The timings extension is being funded by York’s Bus Service Improvement Plan, supported by the Department for Transport.

Cllr Kate Ravilious, Executive Member for Transport at City of York Council, said:

“Residents, commuters and visitors have asked us to run the Park and Ride earlier in the morning and later into the evening, and we’re delighted to confirm these extended hours will start from 20 July.

“Whether you’re catching an early morning train, finishing an overnight shift or enjoying a night out in York, this expansion is part of our commitment to giving people more travel options and making York a cleaner, more affordable and more sustainable city.

“The six Park and Ride sites cover every corner of York and with up to three children traveling free with a paying adult, offers an excellent alternative to driving in to York. They also make an invaluable contribution to reducing congestion across our city. We’ve also recently unveiled plans to open up two sites for overnight parking and will be announcing the next steps on these shortly.”

Andy Cullen, Managing Director of First Bus North & West Yorkshire, said:

“This will help commuters and shift workers with connections to train services at the very start and end of the day.

“The extension of services into the late evening will also be a real boost for visitors to York’s leisure and entertainment venues, as well as supporting the hospitality sector.

“It reflects our continued commitment to work in partnership with City of York Council to build the Park and Ride network for the benefit of local people and visitors to help grow the city’s economy.”

David Skaith, the Mayor of York and North Yorkshire, said:

“For too long, public transport hasn’t always worked for everyone, especially those with early starts or late finishes.

“For the first time all of York’s Park and Ride sites will operate on a single, consistent timetable from 5.30am right up until 10.30pm. It’s the kind of public transport our region deserves.

“We’re putting passengers first, with more affordable and greener journeys that everyone can benefit from – from shift workers and commuters to those enjoying the city’s night life.”

Local Transport Minister, Simon Lightwood, said:

“When public transport is affordable and reliable, it transforms lives—helping people get to work, attend medical appointments, access opportunities and stay connected with their community.

“I’m delighted that Mayor Skaith is already delivering major improvements with our £12 million investment and moving ahead with their plans to bring buses under local control.

“From cheaper fares to extended Park & Ride hours, these changes are kickstarting a bus revolution that drives economic growth and ensures people have proper access to jobs and opportunities, as we deliver the Plan for Change.”

Sarah Loftus, Managing Director of Make It York, said:

“York Park and Ride is a vital link in supporting our hospitality and tourism sectors, making it easier and more affordable for everyone to access the city centre, this helps all businesses to recruit and retain talent.

“The new operating hours of York Park and Ride improves accessibility for everyone, offering a reliable and inclusive transport option.

“For visitors, it’s a convenient way to explore the wider city, stay longer and enjoy more of what York has to offer, and these longer running hours will offer a real boost to our local economy.”

First Bus is also introducing more frequency on the Park and Ride network to support anticipated demand during the school holidays and summer tourism season.

From Sunday 20 July until 7 September, additional buses will operate Monday-Friday on all services and also Saturdays on routes 7 and 8. Normal timetables will run on Sundays.
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
July 3, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: 50 days to go – Sunderland gets ready to host the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025
Source: City of Sunderland

With just 50 days to go until Sunderland hosts the opening match of the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025, more details have been released of exciting plans for the opening weekend.
England’s Red Roses take on the USA at the Stadium of Light on the evening of Friday, 22 August in what promises to be a thrilling opener to the biggest Women’s Rugby World Cup tournament in history.

Sunderland City Council is hoping to create a carnival atmosphere in the city in the build up to the big game with more than 150 colourful flags and banners adding to the party atmosphere in the city centre as well as live music, a fan parade to the stadium and fireworks post match, with the celebrations continuing into the Saturday.

The build up to the spectacular opening weekend celebrations get underway at 4pm on Thursday 21 August with the opening of the Fan Village in Keel Square in the heart of the city centre a short walk from the Stadium of Light, featuring a line up of female led musicians through until 10pm that night.

There will also be additional seating and a bar at nearby Keel Edge along with a rugby themed immersive and interactive light installation.

On match day itself, the Fan Village is open from 9am, offering food, drink, and rugby-themed activities including pass speed and accuracy challenges, jump height tests, and a reaction wall, making it the perfect hub for fans to gather before and after the big match.

Visitors to the Fan Village can also look forward to live music throughout the day with tribute performances from Rock DJ, Mac Busted, Re-Take That and Royal Rhapsody, as well as interactive walkabout characters, ahead of a fan parade leading fans to the stadium for the match.

Following the big match, the day will end with a spectacular firework display over the river.

Celebrations continue on Saturday, 23 August, as Sunniside Market relocates to Keel Square for a day-long festival of local talent and creativity. With music, entertainment and family-friendly activities there will be something for everyone to enjoy.

Attractions on the day include:

Circurama’s circus workshops and performances

Victoria Armstrong’s interactive bubble act

Chris Cross, the North East’s own magician

Aria Art & Movement’s aerial hoop taster sessions

A bustling art market and free craft activities

Outdoor drawing classes with the Atlas Theatre Company

Live music from 10am to 3pm, curated by Sunderland Music City

Councillor Michael Mordey, Leader of Sunderland City Council, said: “It’s incredibly exciting to be just 50 days away from the opening match of the Women’s Rugby World Cup in Sunderland, especially now that we’re starting to see visible signs like the lamp post banners springing up around the city centre.

“This is the biggest ever Women’s Rugby World Cup tournament and it’s a proud moment for our city to be hosting the opener for such a prestigious event.

“It’s also a brilliant opportunity to showcase Sunderland on the international stage and one which is set to provide an estimated £20m economic boost to the region.”

Councillor Beth Jones Sunderland City Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities, Culture and Tourism, added: “The opening weekend of the tournament is going to be really exciting and we’re looking forward to creating a real party atmosphere in the city.

“It’s an event which has something for everyone, whether you’re coming along to the opening match, soaking up the live music and pre-match atmosphere in the Fan Village, watching the fireworks after the match or planning to come and enjoy some of the fantastic family-friendly free entertainment on the Saturday.

“And with tickets selling like hot cakes and prices starting at just £10 for adults and £5 for children, it’s also a fantastic opportunity to see world-class rugby here in Sunderland. So I’d urge anyone who hasn’t already got a ticket for the opening match to get one while they’re still available.”

England’s Red Rose are favourites to win the tournament after last winning the World Cup in 2014 when South Shields born University of Sunderland graduate Katy Daley McLean captained the team.

Tickets for the tournament are competitively priced from £10 for adults and £5 for children. This means a family of four can enjoy an evening at the Women’s Rugby World Cup Opening Game for £30. To find out more about the Women’s Rugby World Cup, how to get tickets and how to get involved in free rugby activities in Sunderland visit:Rugby World Cup 2025 – MySunderland
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
July 3, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: School’s young minds help bring big idea for outdoor play to life

Source: City of Leeds

A specialist school in Leeds is celebrating the opening of a newly-renovated outdoor space designed to revolutionise play and learning for pupils.

John Jamieson School in Roundhay – part of East Specialist Inclusive Learning Centre (SILC) – now has an extensive array of new play equipment after students and teachers organised an impressive playground makeover to help pupils flourish in the great outdoors.

The new additions include an outside café and shop, gardening patch, messy play table, mud kitchen, flower wall, sensory area and sports and gym equipment including light-up scooters.

New play resources have also been added inside the school, including trampolines in breakout spaces for each classroom.

The school supports pupils aged from four to 19 with a wide range of learning needs including moderate to severe learning difficulties, complex medical needs, physical difficulties, hearing or visual impairments and autism.

The outdoor shop and café will enable post-16 pupils to gain work experience, as well as providing a source of additional income for the school and a comfortable space for staff to take a break.

The suggestion of more playful activities at breaktimes was initially raised when students from specialist inclusive learning settings took over the Leeds SEND Partnership Board as part of a national takeover challenge in 2021, supported by Leeds City Council’s ‘voice, influence and change’ team.

The council then supported John Jamieson School in an ultimately successful bid for funding though the Sir George Martin Trust, which provides grants to improve the wellbeing of disadvantaged and vulnerable people in West Yorkshire.

Funding was also provided to the school by West Riding Masonic Charities.

Head of School Jamie Darby said pupils from all four schools within the East SILC will be able to use the new resources.

He said: “It’s very exciting to have these new spaces for all our pupils to enjoy. We hope it will encourage the older students to develop work skills and also support them in taking on a mentoring role to younger students who come to use the space too.

“One of the most exciting purchases has been the trampolines. Every staff member has spoken very highly of the benefits of having trampolines as a very effective regulation tool for the young people.

“We also love the fact that we now have space for learners to be able to garden and they are involved in every step of the work we do there.”

As part of the transformation, the school has also created a forestry area and turned their existing polytunnel into an outdoor classroom.

A memory garden has also been created to remember students who have sadly died while enrolled at the school.

Councillor Helen Hayden, executive member for children and families, said: “Listening to the voices of children and young people across Leeds is a key part of our work in the children and families service and we’re delighted to have been able to play a part in helping to turn John Jamieson staff and students’ ideas into reality.

“It is vital that children have access to high quality play equipment for breaks in school and out and this new space is a great showcase of imaginative and exciting resources for both learning and fun.

“The success of this project is testament to the hard work of all involved and I hope all the pupils thoroughly enjoy exploring the unique opportunities for play it has created.”

ENDS

For media enquiries please contact:

Leeds City Council communications and marketing,

Email: communicationsteam@leeds.gov.uk

Tel: 0113 378 6007

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

July 3, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Reuse pop-up shop returns to Raynesway this summer 2025
Source: City of Derby

After four successful events this spring, the reuse pop-up shop is back this summer at Raynesway Household Waste Recycling Centre (HWRC), offering residents a chance to pick up bargains while helping the environment.

Organised by HW Martin, who manage Raynesway HWRC, the pop-up aims to reduce waste by encouraging the reuse of good quality items and supporting recycling efforts.

The shop will open on alternate Fridays and Saturdays during the centre’s usual hours: from 12pm to 6pm on Fridays, and 8am to 6pm on Saturdays. The upcoming dates to visit are:
- 4–5 July
- 18–19 July
- 1–2 August
- 15–16 August
- 29–30 August
A wide selection of pre-loved goods, previously donated at Raynesway, will be available to purchase by card or cash, including toys, furniture, and home décor.

Visitors who want to browse and shop at the pop-up do not need to book. However, if you intend to drop off waste or make any donations for our next shop, booking a slot remains necessary. This can be done online via the Derby City Council website or by calling 01332 640000.

Funds raised through the pop-up will be reinvested in future reuse initiatives at Raynesway, with a share of the funds being used to provide vital support to resident’s most in need, through the Councils Welfare Reform team.

Councillor Ndukwe Onuoha, Cabinet Member for Streetpride, Public Safety and Leisure, commented:

The reuse pop-up offers a fantastic way for our community to help build a greener Derby. By donating or buying, residents are reducing environmental impact and giving items a new lease of life. At the same time, it provides an affordable option for families facing financial pressures, while helping to protect the planet. I encourage everyone to take part this summer, whether by donating or browsing – there’s something for everyone.
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
July 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Social facilities and housing for the implementation of the renovation program will be built in the Sokolinaya Gora area as part of the KRT project

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

The city has decided to reorganize five sites in the Sokolinaya Gora district as part of the integrated development of territories (IDT) program. This was announced by the Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Urban Development Policy and Construction Vladimir Efimov.

“One integrated development project for the territories included five inefficiently used sites in the Sokolinaya Gora area. Their total area is 2.69 hectares. The operator appointed by the city will build housing there to implement the renovation program, as well as public, business and social infrastructure facilities. In particular, it is planned to build a multifunctional public and medical center. Their total area will be almost 18 thousand square meters. As a result of the project, about 290 jobs will be created,” said Vladimir Efimov.

Two of the sites are located on 8th Sokolinaya Gora Street, near the Sokolinaya Gora station of the Moscow Central Circle. Three others are located along Shcherbakovskaya Street, not far from the Semenovskaya station of the Arbatsko-Pokrovskaya metro line.

“The volume of housing for the implementation of the renovation program, which will be built in the Sokolinaya Gora district within the framework of this project, will be 41.6 thousand square meters. The total area of apartments will reach about 19.1 thousand square meters. This will provide new housing for about 700 Muscovites. They will receive apartments with finished improved finishing. The adjacent territory will also be improved, equipped with recreation and sports grounds,” noted the Minister of the Moscow Government, head of the capital’s Department of Urban Development Policy

Vladislav Ovchinsky.

Earlier, Sergei Sobyanin signed a decree on the integrated development of the territory in Sokolinaya Gora area.

According to the program of integrated development of territories, multifunctional city blocks are being created, where roads, comfortable housing and all necessary infrastructure are being designed on the site of former industrial zones and inefficiently used areas. Currently, 302 KRT projects with a total area of about 4.2 thousand hectares are at various stages of development and implementation in Moscow. This work is being carried out on behalf ofSergei Sobyanin.

Get the latest news quickly official telegram channel the city of Moscow.

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.

Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/156197073/

MIL OSI Russia News –

July 3, 2025
Astronomers get picture of aftermath of a star’s double detonation

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

The explosion of a star, called a supernova, is an immensely violent event. It usually involves a star more than eight times the mass of our sun that exhausts its nuclear fuel and undergoes a core collapse, triggering a single powerful explosion.

But a rarer kind of supernova involves a different type of star – a stellar ember called a white dwarf – and a double detonation. Researchers have obtained photographic evidence of this type of supernova for the first time, using the European Southern Observatory’s Chile-based Very Large Telescope.

The back-to-back explosions obliterated a white dwarf that had a mass roughly equal to the sun and was located about 160,000 light‑years from Earth in the direction of the constellation Dorado in a galaxy near the Milky Way called the Large Magellanic Cloud. A light-year is the distance light travels in a year, 5.9 trillion miles (9.5 trillion km).

The image shows the scene of the explosion roughly 300 years after it occurred, with two concentric shells of the element calcium moving outward.

This type of explosion, called a Type Ia supernova, would have involved the interaction between a white dwarf and a closely orbiting companion star – either another white dwarf or an unusual star rich in helium – in what is called a binary system.

The primary white dwarf through its gravitational pull would begin to siphon helium from its companion. The helium on the white dwarf’s surface at some point would become so hot and dense that it would detonate, producing a shockwave that would compress and ignite the star’s underlying core and trigger a second detonation.

“Nothing remains. The white dwarf is completely disrupted,” said Priyam Das, a doctoral student in astrophysics at the University of New South Wales Canberra in Australia, lead author of the study published on Wednesday in the journal Nature Astronomy.

“The time delay between the two detonations is essentially set by the time it takes the helium detonation to travel from one pole of the star all the way around to the other. It’s only about two seconds,” said astrophysicist and study co-author Ivo Seitenzahl, a visiting scientist at the Australian National University in Canberra.

In the more common type of supernova, a remnant of the massive exploded star is left behind in the form of a dense neutron star or a black hole.

The researchers used the Very Large Telescope’s Multi-Unit Spectroscopic Explorer, or MUSE, instrument to map the distribution of different chemical elements in the supernova aftermath. Calcium is seen in blue in the image – an outer ring caused by the first detonation and an inner ring by the second.

These two calcium shells represent “the perfect smoking-gun evidence of the double-detonation mechanism,” Das said.

“We can call this forensic astronomy – my made-up term – since we are studying the dead remains of stars to understand what caused the death,” Das said.

Stars with up to eight times the mass of our sun appear destined to become a white dwarf. They eventually burn up all the hydrogen they use as fuel. Gravity then causes them to collapse and blow off their outer layers in a “red giant” stage, eventually leaving behind a compact core – the white dwarf. The vast majority of these do not explode as supernovas.

While scientists knew of the existence of Type Ia supernovas, there had been no clear visual evidence of such a double detonation until now. Type Ia supernovas are important in terms of celestial chemistry in that they forge heavier elements such as calcium, sulfur and iron.

“This is essential for understanding galactic chemical evolution including the building blocks of planets and life,” Das said.

A shell of sulfur also was seen in the new observations of the supernova aftermath.

Iron is a crucial part of Earth’s planetary composition and, of course, a component of human red blood cells.

In addition to its scientific importance, the image offers aesthetic value.

“It’s beautiful,” Seitenzahl said. “We are seeing the birth process of elements in the death of a star. The Big Bang only made hydrogen and helium and lithium. Here we see how calcium, sulfur or iron are made and dispersed back into the host galaxy, a cosmic cycle of matter.”

(Reuters)

July 3, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Revised science awards to boost core innovation

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

China has updated its guidelines for the national science and technology awards with the aim of aligning innovation in the sector with major national strategies.

The revised guidelines, announced by the Ministry of Science and Technology on Monday, emphasize the need for the awards to focus on the global forefront of science and technology, key economic battlefields, major national needs, and public health and wellbeing — areas deemed critical to the country’s development.

The awards aim to align with China’s medium to long-term science and technology development plans and foster a deeper integration between scientific research and industrial innovation.

The changes also affect the evaluation criteria used in order to ensure that scientists and frontline technical workers are prioritized. This guarantees that the focus is on individuals who demonstrate creativity in fundamental research, applied basic research, significant breakthroughs in core technologies and those promoting new quality productive forces. This shift aims to contribute to China’s self-reliance and strength in the field of science and technology.

For example, the State Preeminent Science and Technology Awards will now primarily recognize breakthroughs in key technological domains that address significant national needs. Candidates for these awards must demonstrate loyalty to the country, embody the spirit of scientists, and remain active in cutting-edge science and technology.

The guidelines also outline clear criteria and procedures to ensure that the most deserving individuals and projects are recognized. National science and technology awards will be conferred biennially. The State Preeminent Science and Technology Awards can be granted to a maximum of two individuals at a time, with the prize money increased to 8 million yuan ($1.12 million), all of which goes directly to the recipients.

The State Natural Science Awards, State Technological Invention Awards, and State Scientific and Technological Progress Awards combined will amount to fewer than 300 prizes. The International Science and Technology Cooperation Awards of the People’s Republic of China will have a maximum of 10 prizes each time.

A strong emphasis has been placed on research integrity. Individuals who have violated ethical standards or have been involved in research misconduct are ineligible for nomination. The guidelines establish a nomination accountability framework, requiring nominators to verify the authenticity of materials and assess the morality and political stances of nominees.

MIL OSI China News –

July 3, 2025
MIL-OSI China: China, EU hold 13th round of high-level strategic dialogue

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

At the 13th round of China-EU High-level Strategic Dialogue Wednesday, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas agreed to deepen mutual understanding and work together to get well-prepared for the upcoming leaders’ meeting for enhancing cooperation.

Noting this year marks the 50th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic ties as well as the 80th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations (UN), Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said the upcoming China-EU leaders’ meeting is drawing broad attention.

Looking back on the extraordinary journey of China-EU relations over the past five decades, Wang said, their relationship should be characterized as that of partners rather than rivals, with cooperation as the defining feature and ballast.

The two sides need to properly handle their differences through dialogue within this framework, he said.

China and Europe have no fundamental conflicts of interest but rather share extensive common interests, Wang said. Both sides support multilateralism and open cooperation, uphold the central role of the UN and the democratization of international relations, and are committed to resolving disputes peacefully through dialogue.

Facing growing uncertainty and instability in the international landscape, Wang emphasized that China and the EU, as two major forces and economies, should enhance exchanges, mutual understanding and mutual trust, and advance cooperation, in a joint effort to safeguard the post-war international order and provide the world with much-needed certainty.

Wang said that China is ready to work with the EU to ensure that the upcoming China-EU leaders’ meeting yields positive outcomes, charting the course for the future growth of China-EU relations.

On issues of peace and security, he said, China has the best track record among major countries in today’s world. China is not the United States, and its path should not be mirrored against America’s historical trajectory.

The differences between China and the EU in history, culture and values should not warrant rivalry, nor their disagreements necessitate confrontation, Wang said, noting that While Europe currently faces various challenges, they have never come — and will never come — from China, whether in the past, present or future.

Wang called on both sides to respect each other, draw on each other’s experiences and pursue common development so as to make new contributions to human progress.

The Chinese foreign minister expressed hope that the EU will develop a more objective and rational understanding of China and adopt a more positive and practical policy toward China.

In their comprehensive strategic partnership, it is most important for China and the EU to respect each other and accommodate each other’s core interests, Wang said.

China has consistently supported European integration and the EU’s efforts to strengthen its strategic autonomy and play a constructive role in international affairs, he said, expressing hope that the EU will likewise respect China’s core interests through concrete actions.

The Taiwan question concerns China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, Wang said, voicing hope that the European side will strictly adhere to the one-China principle in both word and deed.

Kallas said that the EU and China are partners, sharing common responsibilities and having significant influence on major issues such as upholding the central role of the UN and safeguarding international law and international order.

The EU remains committed to the one-China policy and stands ready to work with China to prepare for the upcoming leaders’ meeting, Kallas said, expressing the EU’s willingness to strengthen mutual understanding through dialogue, build a more constructive EU-China relationship, and pursue more balanced and equitable economic and trade cooperation.

The two sides also exchanged views on the Ukraine crisis, the Palestine-Israel conflict and the Iranian nuclear issue.

MIL OSI China News –

July 3, 2025
MIL-OSI China: A robot revolution in building the largest railway station in west China

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

As the new section of the Chongqing-Xiamen high-speed railway, from Chongqing to Qianjiang, officially opened a week ago, the key hub along this route, Chongqing East Railway Station, was also put into operation.

From obtaining the design blueprints in May 2022 to its official inauguration, it has taken 38 months to complete what is now the largest high-speed rail station in west China. Behind this monumental construction project are a group of unsung heroes — robots.

According to Sun Haoran, a manager of the railway station project under China Railway Construction Engineering Group, the station serves as a pilot for the “integration of stations and cities” as part of the nation’s efforts to strengthen transportation infrastructure.

Located in the Nan’an District of Chongqing, the station features 15 platforms and 29 tracks. The station building spans eight floors with a total construction area of 1.22 million square meters, equivalent to 170 standard football fields. Its roof covers approximately 120,000 square meters and weighs 16,500 tonnes.

“The scale of the station’s roof alone is colossal, making the construction difficult and posing high safety risks,” Sun said.

Indeed, in this city where temperatures regularly hit 40 degrees Celsius during furnace-like summers, building a vast transportation hub on its rugged topography demands innovation.

Robots have conducted a quiet revolution, transforming conventional construction in extreme environments.

“Ground leveling in 40-degree heat used to mean workers often collapsing from heatstroke,” said Huang Pinqing, a senior official with China Railway 11th Bureau Group Corporation Limited, who is in charge of the railway station project.

“Now, laser-guided bots did the job with millimeter precision at three times human speed, cutting labour costs by 40 percent.”

“Meanwhile, in this mountain furnace in summer, steel never sweats,” he added.

Huang proudly introduced his “robot army.”

Four-wheel laser screed machines, equipped with LiDAR sensors, AI algorithms, and 5G connectivity, replaced manual concrete smoothing. While workers remotely monitor them from shaded shelters, their precision reduces waste.

Patrol robots, undeterred by night or rain, became 24/7 sentinels. Using AI vision, they detect the absence of hard hats or misplaced vehicles within 100 meters during the day or 50 meters at night, slashing hazard identification time by 90 percent and quadrupling the quality inspection efficiency, he said.

Glass installation robots tackle 800-kilogram panels needed for soaring facades. Precision servo arms position the massive glass units with millimeter accuracy, accelerating installation threefold while reducing accident risks by 90 percent compared to manual hoisting by dozens of workers.

Omni-directional welding robots were used for joining overhead pipe installations. Capable of 0.1-millimeter accuracy swing control, they sealed an 800-millimeter diameter steel pipe joint in two hours — one-third the time required manually — ensuring consistent quality on high-altitude tasks.

“Robots free our teams from the worst heat exposure,” Huang said. “They aren’t gimmicks but essential partners.”

Data from China Railway 11th Bureau Group Corporation Limited confirmed that robotics tripled average work efficiency and nearly halved labour costs.

In addition, safety incidents dropped by 90 percent, despite Chongqing’s challenging topography, where summer heatwaves now regularly test construction limits, including record-breaking temperatures in 2022 and 2024, forcing traditional sites to suspend daytime work.

“This is how technology serves people — building faster, safer, and smarter, even in Chongqing’s furnace,” said Huang.

This mountainous metropolis is also accelerating the power of automation to reshape infrastructure development and beyond.

According to the Chongqing Municipal Economy and Information Technology Commission, in recent years, Chongqing has drafted action plans to boost robot application and cultivate future industries, empowering the development of the robotics industry from a top-level institutional perspective.

By 2024, the city’s robotics output exceeded 60,000 units, with the total industrial chain output value surpassing 37 billion yuan (about 5.17 billion U.S. dollars).

Meanwhile, the city is creating an internationally competitive intelligent equipment industrial cluster.

Currently, Chongqing has gathered over 300 key robotics enterprises, and hosts 31 research and development platforms, such as the Chongqing Institute of Green and Intelligent Technology under the Chinese Academy of Sciences and a national robotics testing center.

This has led to the establishment of a comprehensive ecosystem encompassing research and development, manufacturing, testing, system integration, component supply, talent training and application services.

MIL OSI China News –

July 3, 2025
MIL-OSI China: China’s grassroots ‘World Cup’ ignites football frenzy

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

Players of Yangzhou greet supporters after winning the third round match against Changzhou at the 2025 Jiangsu Football City League (JSCL) in Changzhou, May 31, 2025. (Xinhua)

Those eager to catch a glimpse of next year’s FIFA World Cup magic a little early may want to head to eastern China’s Jiangsu Province, where an amateur football league is offering an unlikely but extraordinary alternative.

With a cheeky nod to both the English Premier League and the Chinese Super League, the Su Super League, or the Jiangsu Football City League, features a seven-month, 85-match grassroots showdown between 13 cities, packed with local pride, derby drama and an atmosphere that is nothing short of electric.

The league has taken China by storm, even eclipsing the domestic buzz surrounding the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. On June 29, 43,617 fans packed into the stands to watch Suzhou take on Yangzhou, a crowd even larger than the average attendance of Italy’s Serie A last year.

And that might just be the warm-up. The upcoming July 5 clash between Suzhou and Nanjing, moved to a stadium with over 60,000 seats, is expected to set a new attendance record. Ticket demand has been so wild that hundreds of thousands have scrambled online just for a shot at entry.

Since its May 10 kick-off, the league had racked up a jaw-dropping 11 billion views on Chinese short video platforms by June 21, according to Jiangsu’s statistical authorities. That’s not a typo – billion with a “B.”

Despite China’s struggles on the international football stage, the passion for the sport runs deep at home. And the Su Super League is a living proof. Unlike its professional counterparts, the league’s players come from everyday backgrounds like students, office workers and repairmen.

But they deliver no fewer spectacles on the pitch. In that June 29 match, Suzhou scored just one minute and 18 seconds into the game, setting a league record for the fastest goal. The scorer was a 17-year-old high schooler who netted twice more in the second half, leading his team to victory.

Even in defeat, the league finds its heroes. Changzhou, a team yet to register a win in five games, has become a fan favorite for their fight, grit and refusal to give in. Fans flood social media with affectionate memes, and the team’s underdog charm has sparked a local tourism and spending boom.

“We never used to watch football,” said Xu Huaiyu, a housewife from Changzhou. “Now our whole family gathers for every match and cheers for our home team!”

On weekends, the league streams across more than 20 platforms. According to Jiangsu TV, the past weekend’s locally televised broadcasts alone pulled in a combined audience of 83.7 million viewers.

The fever is just as real offline. Bars, plazas and even cinemas across Jiangsu have seen surging crowds for public viewings – scenes typically reserved for the World Cup.

In Nantong, 34 viewing spots in parks and commercial districts have become makeshift stadiums, filled with chants and applause. In Wuxi, outdoor screens and football-themed night markets serve up beer, barbecue and 90 minutes of grassroots glory under the stars.

“The phenomenon reflects people’s rising enthusiasm for diverse, mass-participation sports events,” said Li Chao, a spokesperson of China’s National Development and Reform Commission. “It also reveals the immense potential for growth in China’s sports, cultural and tourism industries.”

Suzhou has gone all in. More than 100 local restaurants, malls and scenic spots are offering discounts to traveling fans. Match ticket holders and visitors from opposing cities can enjoy free entry to over 40 attractions across the city.

In Nantong, the economic impact is already measurable. On a recent home game Sunday, the city welcomed over 730,000 visitors and generated 420 million yuan (around 58 million U.S. dollars) in tourism revenue, a 44.5 percent and 52.3 percent jump year-over-year, respectively.

A Jiangsu statistical department’s recent survey of over 3,000 local residents found that nearly 59 percent plan to increase household spending on sports this year – be it gear, training or participation – thanks to the league’s influence.

“The Su Super League has broken through the walls of traditional competitive sports,” said Ding Xiang, associate professor at Nanjing University. “It’s creating a culture where everyone can talk football, watch football and be part of the experience,” he said. “It’s much like the World Cup at street level, with a ripple effect on diverse consumer behavior.”

Multiple Jiangsu cities have already moved to capitalize, listing the league as a strategic economic priority for the second half of 2025. At a recent provincial briefing, Jiangsu Governor Xu Kunlin urged officials to “fully leverage the league to drive integration of culture, tourism, sports and commerce, and spark a consumption-led economy.”

Beyond economic gains, the league is casting new light on youth development. Powerhouse teams like Nantong, who have netted 12 goals in four matches, are largely made up of players from local youth academies. The city has already made football part of high school entrance assessments and boasts over 240 national-level school football programs.

Even Changzhou, winless but undaunted, is stepping up. The city is preparing a new three-year action plan to expand its youth training system and bring football further into schools.

In March, German football giants Borussia Dortmund opened a youth training base in Changzhou. Bundesliga-level coaches now train local PE teachers and run regular sessions for students, embedding a global football philosophy into local roots.

“The Su Super League reminds us of football’s raw passion and purity,” said Bai Yufei, professor at Beijing Sport University. “It’s getting longtime fans even more excited, and it’s bringing new ones into the game. That’s how you grow the sport at the grassroots level.”

MIL OSI China News –

July 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Video: EU Climate Target for 2040: 90% Emission Cut

Source: European Commission (video statements)

The EU is staying the course on its quest to decarbonise through pragmatism, flexibility, and responsibility. By 2040, the goal is to cut emissions by 90%, a target that will drive clean tech, boost competitiveness, and build resilience against climate impacts. It’s about protecting people, empowering industries, and leading the global clean transition.

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/-Z2nkUmriBo

MIL OSI Video –

July 3, 2025
Gujarat becomes third Indian state to cross 1 crore stock market investors: NSE

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

Gujarat has become the third state in the country to record more than one crore registered stock market investors, according to the latest data released by the National Stock Exchange (NSE).

In a statement, the NSE said that Gujarat has joined Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh in crossing the one-crore mark in investor registrations. Together, these three states now account for 36 per cent of the total investor base in India.

As per NSE data, the total number of registered investors in the country stood at nearly 11.5 crore as of May 2025. The month of May alone witnessed the addition of over 11 lakh new investors, registering a 9 per cent month-on-month growth. This comes after four consecutive months of decline in new registrations.

Region-wise, North India leads with 4.2 crore investors, followed by West India with 3.5 crore. South India has 2.4 crore investors while East India accounts for 1.4 crore investors.

North and East India recorded the highest growth in the last one year, with investor numbers rising by 24 per cent and 23 per cent respectively. South India reported a growth of 22 per cent, while West India saw a 17 per cent increase during the same period.

The overall trend shows a change in momentum. India had crossed the 9-crore investor mark in February 2024 and added the next crore every five to six months, reaching 10 crore by August 2024 and 11 crore by January 2025.

However, from February to May 2025, the growth rate slowed down, with an average of 10.8 lakh new investors added per month, compared to the monthly average of 19.3 lakh new investors in the calendar year 2024.

(ANI)

July 3, 2025
Gujarat becomes third Indian state to cross 1 crore stock market investors: NSE

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

Gujarat has become the third state in the country to record more than one crore registered stock market investors, according to the latest data released by the National Stock Exchange (NSE).

In a statement, the NSE said that Gujarat has joined Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh in crossing the one-crore mark in investor registrations. Together, these three states now account for 36 per cent of the total investor base in India.

As per NSE data, the total number of registered investors in the country stood at nearly 11.5 crore as of May 2025. The month of May alone witnessed the addition of over 11 lakh new investors, registering a 9 per cent month-on-month growth. This comes after four consecutive months of decline in new registrations.

Region-wise, North India leads with 4.2 crore investors, followed by West India with 3.5 crore. South India has 2.4 crore investors while East India accounts for 1.4 crore investors.

North and East India recorded the highest growth in the last one year, with investor numbers rising by 24 per cent and 23 per cent respectively. South India reported a growth of 22 per cent, while West India saw a 17 per cent increase during the same period.

The overall trend shows a change in momentum. India had crossed the 9-crore investor mark in February 2024 and added the next crore every five to six months, reaching 10 crore by August 2024 and 11 crore by January 2025.

However, from February to May 2025, the growth rate slowed down, with an average of 10.8 lakh new investors added per month, compared to the monthly average of 19.3 lakh new investors in the calendar year 2024.

(ANI)

July 3, 2025
Army chief lauds Indian military team for ‘focused’ joint training in Bhutan

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) General Upendra Dwivedi visited the Indian Military Training Team (IMTRAT) in Bhutan on Thursday, where he was briefed on the vital role the team plays in enhancing military cooperation between India and the Royal Bhutan Army (RBA).

According to the Indian Army’s Additional Directorate General of Public Information (ADGPI), the COAS interacted with personnel from both the Indian Army and the Royal Bhutan Army at IMTRAT. He commended them for their focused joint training initiatives and efforts in leadership development.

As India’s oldest overseas military mission, IMTRAT stands as a testament to the strength and depth of Indo-Bhutan defence cooperation.

On Wednesday, General Dwivedi also visited the Gyalsung Academy in Jamtsholing, where he was briefed on King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck’s visionary initiative aimed at nation-building and youth empowerment. The COAS praised the Academy’s efforts in shaping the future of Bhutan’s youth and expressed admiration for both the existing and upcoming infrastructure, which he noted would bring the King’s vision to life.

Reaffirming the deep-rooted friendship between India and Bhutan, General Dwivedi stated that the Indian Army remains committed to supporting Bhutan’s transformative initiatives.

King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck announced the Gyalsung initiative – Bhutan’s National Service – during his Royal Address on the country’s 112th National Day in December 2019. The program is envisioned to empower Bhutanese youth to actively participate in nation-building and enhance national unity, peace, and sovereignty. The first batch of Gyalsung training began on September 5, 2024.

In a significant gesture, the King and Queen (the Gyaltsuen) of Bhutan granted an audience to General Dwivedi at the Tashichhodzong on Tuesday. He was received with a ceremonial Chipdrel procession and presented with a Guard of Honour.

Earlier, the Indian Army Chief held discussions with Lieutenant General Batoo Tshering, Chief Operations Officer (COO) of the Royal Bhutan Army, to further deepen military collaboration and strengthen strategic defence ties between the two nations.

General Dwivedi arrived in Bhutan on Monday for a four-day official visit aimed at enhancing the enduring defence partnership between India and Bhutan. He was warmly welcomed at the airport by Major General Dorji Rinchen, Deputy Chief Operations Officer of the Royal Bhutan Army.

As part of his visit, the COAS laid a wreath at the National Memorial Chorten in honour of Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, the third Druk Gyalpo of Bhutan, and reviewed an impressive Guard of Honour at Tashichhodzong, a prominent Buddhist monastery and fortress in the capital.

Later, he held discussions with Lieutenant General Tshering, reflecting the mutual trust, strategic convergence, and camaraderie shared between the Indian Army and the Royal Bhutan Army.

(With inputs from IANS)

July 3, 2025
Army chief lauds Indian military team for ‘focused’ joint training in Bhutan

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) General Upendra Dwivedi visited the Indian Military Training Team (IMTRAT) in Bhutan on Thursday, where he was briefed on the vital role the team plays in enhancing military cooperation between India and the Royal Bhutan Army (RBA).

According to the Indian Army’s Additional Directorate General of Public Information (ADGPI), the COAS interacted with personnel from both the Indian Army and the Royal Bhutan Army at IMTRAT. He commended them for their focused joint training initiatives and efforts in leadership development.

As India’s oldest overseas military mission, IMTRAT stands as a testament to the strength and depth of Indo-Bhutan defence cooperation.

On Wednesday, General Dwivedi also visited the Gyalsung Academy in Jamtsholing, where he was briefed on King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck’s visionary initiative aimed at nation-building and youth empowerment. The COAS praised the Academy’s efforts in shaping the future of Bhutan’s youth and expressed admiration for both the existing and upcoming infrastructure, which he noted would bring the King’s vision to life.

Reaffirming the deep-rooted friendship between India and Bhutan, General Dwivedi stated that the Indian Army remains committed to supporting Bhutan’s transformative initiatives.

King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck announced the Gyalsung initiative – Bhutan’s National Service – during his Royal Address on the country’s 112th National Day in December 2019. The program is envisioned to empower Bhutanese youth to actively participate in nation-building and enhance national unity, peace, and sovereignty. The first batch of Gyalsung training began on September 5, 2024.

In a significant gesture, the King and Queen (the Gyaltsuen) of Bhutan granted an audience to General Dwivedi at the Tashichhodzong on Tuesday. He was received with a ceremonial Chipdrel procession and presented with a Guard of Honour.

Earlier, the Indian Army Chief held discussions with Lieutenant General Batoo Tshering, Chief Operations Officer (COO) of the Royal Bhutan Army, to further deepen military collaboration and strengthen strategic defence ties between the two nations.

General Dwivedi arrived in Bhutan on Monday for a four-day official visit aimed at enhancing the enduring defence partnership between India and Bhutan. He was warmly welcomed at the airport by Major General Dorji Rinchen, Deputy Chief Operations Officer of the Royal Bhutan Army.

As part of his visit, the COAS laid a wreath at the National Memorial Chorten in honour of Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, the third Druk Gyalpo of Bhutan, and reviewed an impressive Guard of Honour at Tashichhodzong, a prominent Buddhist monastery and fortress in the capital.

Later, he held discussions with Lieutenant General Tshering, reflecting the mutual trust, strategic convergence, and camaraderie shared between the Indian Army and the Royal Bhutan Army.

(With inputs from IANS)

July 3, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Concerts, master classes, film screenings will be held as part of the Friendship of Nations festival

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

The fifth festival of national hospitality “Friendship of Peoples” will be held at VDNKh from July 3 to 6. Business, entertainment and cultural programs have been prepared for guests.

The program will include concerts, family entertainment, the International Festival of Culture, Fashion and National Hospitality “Uzoryfest” and much more. In addition, for the first time, the festival will feature two national holidays – the republics of Chuvashia and Udmurtia, as well as a special program for Karachay-Cherkessia. Entrance to most events is free, but some require pre-registration. You can view the program on the official website VDNKh.

As reported earlier Natalia Sergunina, Deputy Mayor of Moscow, as part of the festival “Friendship of Nations” Around 100 events of various formats are planned: expert discussions, art exhibitions, sports competitions, culinary master classes and tastings.

The participants of the business program will gather in the congress hall of the Cosmonautics and Aviation Center. They will discuss current issues related to business tourism, fashion, and culture. On July 3 at 1:00 p.m., there will be a panel discussion on the topic of “Going beyond the showcase: how museums are becoming living mediators,” and at 3:00 p.m., there will be a panel discussion on “MICE tourism: a look into the future.” On July 4 at 1:00 p.m., the plenary session “Friendship of Peoples: a variety of formats for interstate events” will begin. To participate in the business program, you must register.

The festival will take place from July 4 to 6 “Patterns Fest”. It will include two blocks: business and cultural and entertainment. They will be held from 11:00 to 20:00.

On July 5, from 2:00 PM to 10:00 PM, a concert program will be held on the main stage of the festival, located on the square between Pavilion No. 1 “Central” and the “Friendship of Peoples” fountain. It will feature the Moscow State Dance Ensemble “Russian Seasons”, the folk ensemble “Matrena-art”, the Udmurt State Theater of Folk Song and Dance “Aikai”, the folk group “Buranovskie Babushki”, the State Academic Choreographic Ensemble “Berezka” named after N.S. Nadezhdina, the State Academic Honored Dance Ensemble of Dagestan “Lezginka”, the State Song and Dance Ensemble of the Republic of Tatarstan, the State Academic Koryak National Dance Ensemble “Mengo” named after Alexander Gil (Gubernatorsky). The State Song and Dance Ensemble “Sayany” will present the world premiere of a fragment of the first Tuvan ballet “Subedei”. The main role will be played by People’s Artist of Russia Farukh Ruzimov.

In addition, the People’s Artist of Russia Nadezhda Krygina, the folk song ensemble “Lyubo-milo”, the folk-metal group “Kalevala”, the neofolk group “Balakir”, the ethno-electropunk group Hagrin, as well as the poet and composer Lena Vasilek, the performer from Donetsk Natalia Kachura, the singer Islam Itlyashev, and the first Mari rapper Ship Liy will perform.

Exhibitions, sports competitions, master classes

On July 4, events prepared by the Karachay-Cherkess Republic will be held. A documentary photo exhibition dedicated to the 200th anniversary of Cherkessk will open in the southern rose garden. It will introduce visitors to archival and historical footage of the city. The Cosmonautics and Aviation Center will host a tourism presentation of the region as part of the business program. At 1:00 p.m., the VDNKh Culture House will show the play The Marriage of Balzaminov by the Russian Drama and Comedy Theater of the Karachay-Cherkess Republic, and at 4:00 p.m., the feature film The Aul Test will be shown.

On July 5, the traditional holiday of the Udmurt Republic Gerber will be held. It is held after the end of spring field work to express gratitude to nature, perform symbolic rituals, conduct the first haymaking, cook barley porridge cooked in meat broth, and treat yourself to perepechi. The holiday will begin at 07:00 with a sports race on the northern loop of the VDNKh ring road. The route of the distances can be found atwebsiteYou can also register for the race here.

Guests will be able to visit an exhibition-fair of goods from young republican entrepreneurs and artisans, an exhibition called “Udmurtia is proud”, lessons in the Udmurt language and film screenings in it, a presentation of books by national writers, as well as watch a concert program and take part in various master classes.

On July 6, the national holiday of the Chuvash Republic, Akatuy, will take place. Sports competitions in kereshu wrestling will be organized for guests, as well as a special program in the “House of Russian Cuisine”: master classes, a concert, tastings. At 13:45, all those wishing to will walk around the “Friendship of Peoples” fountain in a round dance with the participation of artists in Chuvash costumes.

At 14:30 there will be a grand opening of the festival, an award ceremony for outstanding Chuvash people, a fashion show in national costumes, and a concert featuring the Chuvash State Academic Song and Dance Ensemble, the classical group “Belcanto”, the folklore and pop ensemble “Syaval”, the vocal group “Yardy” and Avgustina Ulyandina, the Chuvash vocal ensemble “Sespel”, groups of the Chuvash State Philharmonic, and artists of the republican pop scene. From 12:00 to 21:00, an exhibition and fair of products from Chuvash manufacturers will be held at the site near pavilion No. 64.

Outdoor events of the festival’s information partner are planned on the territory of the Orion Family Theme Park. The program “World Family Starts” will be held on July 3-4 from 17:00 to 20:00 and on July 5 and 6 from 13:00 to 20:00.

National Pavilion Program

Pavilion No. 4 (Exhibition and Trade Center of the Kyrgyz Republic) will participate in the festival for the first time. On July 3 and 4, guests will be able to attend a tea ceremony in a decorative yurt, take part in master classes on playing the komuz, attend Kyrgyz language lessons, play the folk board game “ordo” (“alchiki”), and take photos in national costumes.

On July 3, the exhibition “80 Years of Victory in the Great Patriotic War” will open in Pavilion No. 18 (Exhibition and Trade Center of the Republic of Belarus). It is dedicated to the Independence Day of the Republic of Belarus.

On July 3, the Bel Canto Foundation’s concert “Beauty of Uzbekistan” will be held in Pavilion No. 66 (Exhibition, Cultural and Exposition Center of the Republic of Uzbekistan). Guests will listen to vocal numbers, as well as violin and guitar pieces. In addition, from July 3 to 6, it will be possible to view the interiors of the pavilion.

On July 5, a master class on cooking the national dish “harisa” with tasting will be held in Pavilion No. 68 (Exhibition and Trade Center of the Republic of Armenia). In addition, musical and dance groups will perform for the guests.

Good Neighborliness Festival, Equestrian Ceremony, Film Festival

On July 4, the Children’s Embassy will host the circus program “Circus Lights Up the Lights,” and on July 5, it will host a good-neighborliness festival. Guests will visit a performance, workshops, a beauty gallery, get face painting, and see a clown and jugglers perform.

On July 5 at 11:45, the equestrian ceremony of the riders of the Kremlin Equestrian School will begin. The route runs from the Center of National Equestrian Traditions to the Druzhby Narodov Square, where a performance with the participation of the orchestra will be held for the spectators. In pavilion No. 42, the Center of National Equestrian Traditions, a program dedicated to Caucasian horse breeds will be presented. It will include educational stories and creative master classes. On July 6 at 12:00, sports events will be held for guests of VDNKh on the site of pavilion No. 27, Physical Education and Sports.

The Druzhba Narodov film festival will be held at the Cinema Museum at VDNKh. On July 3 at 4:00 PM, guests will be introduced to the festival program and the film Girl with a Guitar will be shown. On July 5 at 4:00 PM, the drama Little Sister will be presented, and on July 6 at 4:00 PM, the film Don’t Bury Me Without Ivan. Detailed information can be found on the website Cinema Museum.

The Atom Museum invites you to the Atom Unites tour from July 4 to 6 at 19:00, which will open the world of international nuclear energy to visitors. You can register atwebsite. On July 3 at 17:00, there will be a master class “Radiation around: from the Urals to Kamchatka” and a quiz “Through the Arctic ice”. And on July 3 and 4 at 16:00, young visitors will be introduced to social geography at the master class “Across Eurasia with Atom”. You can find out more about it atwebsite.

The Glavvino pavilion has prepared a special summer set, “Hospitality,” consisting of five Russian wines and snacks to go with them. The set is available for order from July 3 to 6.

On July 5 at 16:00 in the hall “Krasnostop” (2nd floor of the pavilion “Glavvino”) there will be a tasting “Hospitality” with chef-caviste Vladimir Glukhov. In honor of the festival on the site in front of the pavilion from 15:00 to 22:00 there will be a DJ.

Holding events for VDNKh guests corresponds to the objectives of the national project “Tourism and Hospitality” and is the most important part of the VDNKh strategy until 2030.

Project “Summer in Moscow” — the main event of the season. It unites the most vibrant events of the capital. Every day in all districts of the city there are charity, cultural and sports programs, most of which are free. The Summer in Moscow project is being held for the second time, and this season will be more eventful: new, original and colorful festivals and events will be added to the traditional ones.

Get the latest news quicklyofficial telegram channel the city of Moscow.

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.

Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/156166073/

MIL OSI Russia News –

July 3, 2025

Category: DJF

Painful conclusions call for decisive action

Three-pronged approach: recognise, support, learn

Young people central to the plans

Joint responsibility

Cooperation with chain partners

Pathway to the launch of the Steel Strategy

Industrial Strategy and Spending Review

Trade

Procurement

Industry Minister Sarah Jones said:

The Steel Strategy will be launched later this year, and will:

Share this page

Updates to this page

Exhibitions, sports competitions, master classes

National Pavilion Program

Good Neighborliness Festival, Equestrian Ceremony, Film Festival