Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
ALMATY, July 2 (Xinhua) — The National Bank of Kazakhstan will amend some regulations on payments and money transfers, according to which it will be prohibited to buy housing in new buildings for cash, the Kazinform news agency reported on Wednesday.
The amendments stipulate that all payments under equity participation agreements (EPAs) must be made in non-cash form, including by depositing cash into the bank account of an authorized construction company through banks.
These requirements will apply only to transactions on the primary market /purchase of a share in an apartment building or complex of individual residential buildings under construction/ and are aimed at protecting the rights of equity holders from risks associated with unregistered DDUs. –0–
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
TIANJIN, July 2 (Xinhua) — The 12th meeting of transport ministers of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) member states was held in north China’s Tianjin Municipality on Wednesday. During the event, transport ministers agreed to strengthen regional connectivity.
During the meeting, a memorandum of understanding between the transport departments of the SCO member states on the joint construction of “Silk Road stations” was approved and signed.
Chinese Transport Minister Liu Wei noted that the “Silk Road stations,” which will be jointly built at China’s suggestion, will provide drivers carrying out international transportation in the SCO regions with all the necessary services, including parking, rest areas and hot water supply.
The initiative will help address the growing shortage of rest stops, supply and repair points on highways, which increases the risk of tired driving and reduces the efficiency of cross-border passenger and freight transport, despite the rapid growth in their numbers.
The meeting was attended by heads of transport departments from Pakistan, Mongolia, Belarus, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan. The participants also discussed in detail such aspects of cooperation in the transport sector as promoting high-quality development of China-Europe railway transportation and the introduction of electronic licenses for international road transportation. –0–
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government today (July 2) announced the policy direction of Southbound Travel for Guangdong Vehicles (the Southbound Travel Scheme).
The Southbound Travel Scheme is an important measure to promote the facilitation of the flow of people and vehicles between Hong Kong and the Mainland as well as the transport and logistics development through the study and formulation of transport policies between Hong Kong, Macao and the Mainland, thereby duly implementing the Outline Development Plan for the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area as well as the requirements of relevant documents of the Central Government. With the agreement of Guangdong and the strong support of the Central Government, Guangdong and Hong Kong have been discussing and taking forward the policy through the task force for collaboration on Guangdong-Hong Kong transportation, and reached a consensus on expediting the implementation of the policy of the Southbound Travel Scheme.
Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
BEAUMONT, Texas –A Bourg, Louisiana man has been sentenced for illegally possessing a firearm in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
Brad Michael Broussard, 44, pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm and was sentenced to 57 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Marcia A. Crone on July 1, 2025.
According to information presented in court, on January 1, 2024, Broussard was stopped by law enforcement in Shelby County after he struck several construction barrels while traveling down the highway. The smell of marijuana was evident during the traffic stop prompting a search of the vehicle. A search of the vehicle resulted in the discovery of four firearms, including a pistol equipped with a homemade silencer. Broussard was also in possession of hallucinogenic mushrooms, marijuana, numerous prescription pills, a methamphetamine pipe, and assorted other drug paraphernalia.
Further investigation revealed Broussard has five felony convictions, all for burglary. Federal law prohibits convicted felons from owning or possessing firearms or ammunition.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
This case was investigated by the Texas Department of Public Safety and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Donald S. Carter.
Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
Jackson, TN – A federal judge has sentenced Mekevin Woods, 23, of Bolivar, Tennessee, to 38 months in federal prison for possessing a machinegun conversion device, also known as a “switch.” Interim U.S. Attorney Joseph C. Murphy, Jr. announced the sentence today.
According to evidence presented in court, on December 23, 2023, an officer with the Bolivar Police Department (BPD) attempted a traffic stop of a gray 2022 Infiniti Q60. When the driver refused to stop, he led the BPD officer on a high-speed pursuit reaching speeds of 80 miles per hour in a 25 mile per hour zone. Finally, Woods, the driver and sole occupant of the vehicle, traveled into oncoming traffic, jumped from the vehicle, and fled on foot. While fleeing, the officer observed Woods with a firearm in his right hand.
Officers with the Bolivar Police Department ultimately arrested Woods with the assistance of a K-9 unit and located a Glock handgun loaded with 32 rounds in an extended magazine with a machinegun conversion device attached to the firearm. Officers also determined the vehicle was stolen out of Memphis. Woods was identified as a member of the TMO 45 gang, a hybrid street gang comprised of both adult and juvenile members, that is involved in firearms and narcotics trafficking and is responsible for several shooting incidents in the Fayette and Hardeman County area.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Jackson Resident Agency; and the Bolivar Police Department.
Assistant United States Attorney Christie Hopper prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
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For more information, please contact the Media Relations Team at USATNW.Media@usdoj.gov. Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office on Facebookor on Xat @WDTNNews for office news and updates.
Motorcycle-taxis are one of the fastest and most convenient ways to get around Uganda’s congested capital, Kampala. But they are also the most dangerous. Though they account for one-third of public transport trips taking place within the city, police reports suggest motorcycles were involved in 80% of all road-crash deaths registered in Kampala in 2023.
Promising to solve the safety problem while also improving the livelihoods of moto-taxi workers, digital ride-hail platforms emerged a decade ago on the city’s streets. It is no coincidence that Uganda’s ride-hailing pioneer and long-time market leader goes by the name of SafeBoda.
Conceived in 2014 as a “market-based approach to road safety”, the idea is to give riders a financial incentive to drive safely by making digital moto-taxi work pay better. SafeBoda claimed at the time that motorcyclists who signed up with it would increase their incomes by up to 50% relative to the traditional mode of operation, in which riders park at strategic locations called “stages” and wait for passengers.
In the years since, the efforts of SafeBoda and its ride-hail competitors to bring safety to the sector have largely been deemed a success. One study carried out in 2017 found that digital riders were more likely to wear a helmet and less likely to drive towards oncoming traffic. Early press coverage wasparticularlyglowing, while recentacademicstudies continue to cite the Kampala case as evidence that ride-hailing platforms may hold the key to making African moto-taxi sectors a safer place to work and travel.
Is it all as clear-cut as this? In a new paper based on PhD research, I suggest not. Because at its core the ride-hail model – in which riders are classified as independent contractors who do poorly paid “gig work” rather than as wage-earning employees – undermines its own safety ambitions.
Speed traps
In my study of Kampala’s vast moto-taxi industry – estimated to employ hundreds of thousands of people – I draw on 112 in-depth interviews and a survey of 370 moto-taxi riders to examine how livelihoods and working conditions have been affected by the arrival of the platforms.
To date, there has been only limited critical engagement with how this change has played out over the past decade. I wanted to get beneath the big corporate claims and alluring platform promises to understand how riders themselves had experienced the digital “transformation” of their industry, several years after it first began.
One of the things I found was that, from a safety perspective, the ride-hail model represents a paradox. We can think of it as a kind of “speed trap”.
On one hand, ride-hail platforms try to moderate moto-taxi speeds and behaviours through managerial techniques. They make helmet use compulsory. They put riders through road safety training before letting them out onto the streets. And they enforce a professional “code of conduct” for riders.
In some cases, companies also deploy “field agents” to major road intersections around the city. Their task is to monitor the behaviour of riders in company uniform and, should they be spotted breaking the rules, discipline them.
On the other hand, however, the underlying economic structure of digital ride-hailing pulls transport workers in the opposite direction by systematically depressing trip fares and rewarding speed.
Under the “gig economy” model used by Uganda’s ride-hail platforms, the livelihood promise hangs not in the offer of a guaranteed wage but in the possibility of higher earnings. Crucially, it is a promise that only materialises if riders are able to reach and maintain a faster, harder work-rate throughout the day – completing enough jobs that pay “little money”, as one rider put it, to make the gig-work deal come good. Or, as summed up by another interviewee:
We are like stakeholders, I can say that. No basic salary, just commission. So it depends on your speed.
And yet, it is precisely these factors that routinely lead to road traffic accidents. Extensive research from across east Africa has shown that motorcycle crashes arestronglyassociated with financial pressure and the practices that lead directly from this, such as speeding, working long hours and performing high-risk manoeuvres. All are driven by the need to break even each day in a hyper-competitive informal labour market, with riders compelled to go fast by the raweconomics of their work.
Deepening the pressure
Ride-hail platforms may not be the reason these circumstances exist in the first place. But the point is that they do not mark a departure from them.
If anything, my research suggests they may be making things worse. According to the survey data, riders working through the apps make on average 12% higher gross earnings each week relative to their analogue counterparts. This is because the online world gets them more jobs.
But to stay connected to that world they must shoulder higher operating costs, for: mobile data (to remain logged on); fuel (to perform more trips); the use of helmets and uniforms (which remain company property); and commissions extracted by the platform companies (as much as 15%-20% per trip).
As soon as these extras are factored in, the difference completely disappears. The digital rider works faster and harder – but for no extra reward.
But it is important to remember that these are private enterprises with a clear bottom line: to one day turn a profit. As recentreports and my own thesis show, efforts to reach that point often alienate and ultimately repel the workers on whom these platforms depend – and whose livelihoods and safety standards they claim to be transforming.
A recent investment evaluation by one of SafeBoda’s first funders perhaps puts it best: it is time to reframe ride-hailing as a “risky vehicle” for safety reform in African cities, rather than a clear road to success.
Rich received funding for this research from the UK’s Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC).
Senate Provision Increases New York State Administrative Cost Sharing from 50% to 75%, Decreases Federal Funding to 25%
Reconciliation Package Will Cost New York State $2.1 Billion Annually
Cost-Sharing Shift for SNAP Alone Will Cost State $225 Million Annually
1 in 7 New Yorkers Rely on SNAP to Put Food on the Table
Watch Goldman’s Rules Committee TestimonyHere
Washington, D.C. — Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) introduced an amendment to the GOP reconciliation bill to strike the provision that increases state responsibility for SNAP administrative costs from 50% to 75%, which would otherwise add an estimated $225 million in annual costs to New York State. This amendment would restore the current 50-50 SNAP cost-sharing split between state and federal funding.
“Shifting SNAP’s administrative burden onto the states is just a benefit cut by another name that, with other provisions in this bill, will jeopardize food benefits for 300,000 New York households,” Congressman Dan Goldman said. “Republicans are using voodoo economics and outright lies to deceive the American people as they hollow out essential programs that tens of millions of Americans depend on. I proudly stood up for the most vulnerable Americans by introducing this amendment to fight back against Republicans’ efforts to take food off the table for our children, gut our social safety net, explode the deficit, and mortgage our country’s future – our state won’t be left footing the bill.”
Congressman Goldman is committed to ensuring families have access to SNAP and other nutrition programs.
In April, Congressman Goldman introduced the “MEALS ACT” which would ensure working families who rely on Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) benefits to make ends meet can be reimbursed if their benefits are stolen via EBT card skimming and fraud.
In March, Congressman Goldman hosted a press conference to demand a comprehensive change to state and federal law to address the urgent issue of stolen EBT benefits.
In August 2024, the Congressman cosponsored the ‘SNAP Theft Protection Act,’ which aims to update the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to allow states to use existing SNAP funding to refund stolen benefits to victims of SNAP-related scams.
Goldman and Numerous Other Congressmembers Have Been Illegally Denied Access to ICE Field Offices Used to House Immigrants in Inhumane Conditions
Administration’s Crackdown on Law-Abiding, Non-Violent Immigrants Has Led to Widespread Reports of Overcrowding, Inhumane Conditions at ICE Detention Facilities Nationwide
Watch Goldman’s Rules Committee TestimonyHere
Read the Reconciliation AmendmentHere
Washington, D.C. — Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) introduced an amendment to the Republican reconciliation bill forbidding any of its funds from being used to prevent or impede Members of Congress from conducting their statutorily authorized oversight of immigration enforcement and detention facilities.
“Donald Trump and Congressional Republicans’ Big Ugly Bill for Billionaires doesn’t just slash health care and food assistance programs by over a trillion dollars, it increases funding by tens of billions of dollars to expand and accelerate this administration’s authoritarian crackdown on law-abiding, non-violent immigrants”, Congressman Dan Goldman said. “It is Congress’ responsibility to ensure this money is used appropriately, and that requires us to do our constitutional and statutory oversight. This administration is not above the law, and I urge my colleagues to adopt this amendment reaffirming Congress’ constitutional authority as an independent and co-equal branch of government.”
Goldman’s amendment would ensure that none of the funding in the GOP’s reconciliation bill could be used to prevent congressional oversight of any location or facility related to civil enforcement of immigration law. The prohibition would include temporarily modifying locations before congressional visits or requiring members of Congress to provide prior notice before being allowed into the facility, as the administration has recently demanded in direct violation of Section 527(a) of the Further Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2024.
Congressman Goldman has made combating the Trump administration’s lawless immigration enforcement tactics a top priority since the start of Donald Trump’s second term.
Last week, Goldman and Congressional Hispanic Caucus Chair Adriano Espaillat introduced the ‘No Secret Police Act,’ which would require law enforcement officers and agents of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) engaged in border security and civil immigration enforcement to clearly display identification and insignia when detaining or arresting individuals and to ban them from using home-made, non-tactical masks.
Last month, Goldman led 8 of his New York City House Democratic colleagues in sending an oversight letter to Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem and Acting Director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Director Todd Lyons demanding ICE comply with Section 527(a) of the Further Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2024 and stop denying members of Congress access to facilities that ICE is using to house immigrants.
Days before, Goldman and Congressman Nadler hosted a press conference after observing court proceedings at 26 Federal Plaza and being denied access to the federal building’s 10th floor, where immigrants are being detained for days and sleeping on the floor and benches in inhumane conditions.
In mid-May, 57-year-old Pierre* was admitted to a health centre in the Lubero area after suffering from severe itching on his right hand, followed by pruritus and a swelling of his forearm. He was treated and, given the unusual symptoms, samples were collected and sent for analysis at the laboratory of the Institut National de Recherche Biomédicale (INRB) in Goma.
An alert was previously issued at the end of March 2025 following the death of dozens of buffalo and hippopotamuses in Virunga National Park in North Kivu. Samples taken on 29 March from a recently deceased hippopotamus and examined at the Goma veterinary laboratory revealed the presence of spores of the bacillus responsible for anthrax.
Anthrax is a bacterial zoonosis (disease transmissible from animals to humans) that generally affects ruminants (cows, sheep and goats). Humans can become infected through contact with a sick animal or contaminated products (such as meat, blood, wool, hides and bones). All forms of human anthrax (cutaneous, gastrointestinal and respiratory) require hospitalization and medical treatment.
To ensure a multi-sectoral response to this concerning health situation, the national departments of health, environment, fisheries and livestock, with support from partners including the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, FAO and CDC Africa, have put the “One Health” approach into practice. The close collaboration between the human, animal and environmental health services is designed to protect lives in response to health emergencies.
A delegation from these departments and organisations visited the Binza and Rutshuru health zones from 25 to 28 May 2025 to strengthen surveillance and the response to outbreaks of suspected cases of anthrax in the Binza and Lubero health zones.
“One of the high-impact measures led by the national authorities with the support of partners was the development of the national multi-sector anthrax preparedness and response plan. Through this common approach to the response, we can ensure a comprehensive response, from prevention activities to the clinical management of patients. We are confident that this health threat will soon be over,” said Dr Aline Katerekwa Ntamushigo, Medical Supervisor at the National Programme for Emergencies and Humanitarian Action (NPEHA). “Our discussions with those involved on the ground are helping us to manage this risk effectively to protect people, animals and the environment.”
Since the announcement of the epidemic, WHO has supported the response on several levels. Dr Célestin Ndaliko, epidemiologist in charge of surveillance at the WHO Office in the DRC, was a member of the response team that went to Binza. “There are major challenges in terms of disease detection. So, every anthrax investigation becomes an act of resilience, a glimmer of hope to prevent the spread of this devastating disease.”
As of 26 May 2025, 24 suspected human anthrax cases had been reported, alongside the deaths of 9 goats, one cow, 60 hippopotamuses and 27 buffalo reported in four health zones in the eastern province of North Kivu.
“Our support has been provided at several levels, and we are particularly keen to provide appropriate care for those affected. In most cases, the disease can be cured with antibiotics, which must be prescribed by a health professional,” explained Dr Leopold Ouedraogo, Emergency Manager in the provinces of North and South Kivu.
WHO has made more than four tonnes of medicines available to 12 health facilities, a large quantity of which has been handed over to the authorities in the Binza health zone in Rutshuru territory.
“So far, even if our Binza health zone has not yet recorded any human cases, we have what it takes to prevent and be ahead of what could happen,” said Dr Bernard Kakule, Chief Medical Officer for the Binza health zone.
WHO has played a central role in cross-border coordination between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda, facilitating communication and collaboration between the two countries in response to the re-emergence of anthrax in humans and animals. Surveillance has thus been strengthened, notably by activating the “One Health” unit in Rutshuru, to ensure early detection and rapid response in high-risk health zones by integrating the human, animal and environmental dimensions of health.
To build local capacity, the WHO has also supported the training of community relays, the development of awareness-raising materials and the conduct of public and door-to-door awareness-raising campaigns on disease prevention measures. The Organisation also donated prevention kits (chlorine, hand sanitizers), essential medicines and medical equipment for treatment, and encouraged collaboration with technical partners such as INRB to improve epidemiological surveillance.
Despite security and logistical challenges, WHO’s support has enabled the foundations to be laid for a coordinated response, while highlighting the need for greater commitment to community awareness-raising, the safe management of carcasses and the vaccination of animals at risk.
Since the epidemic was announced, 24 people have been treated in health facilities in the Binza and Lubero health zones, including Pierre, who has been discharged from the hospital and resumed his life.
On the ground, our teams are still working hard to continue protecting people and their herds, working together in the face of a common threat.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Health Organization (WHO) – Democratic Republic of Congo.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Accra on Wednesday on a two-day state visit to Ghana. In a special gesture, the Prime Minister was received at the airport by the President of Ghana, H.E. John Dramani Mahama, and accorded a ceremonial welcome.
This is the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Ghana in more than three decades and marks PM Modi’s first bilateral engagement with the West African nation.
The visit is expected to deepen cooperation in trade, development partnership, capacity building, and cultural exchange, strengthening a warm relationship that has endured since Ghana’s independence.
We cannot afford to keep the Royals. It is time to abolish the monarchy.
More in Scottish Independence
The UK cannot afford to keep the Royal family, and it is time they paid their own way like other celebrities do, say the Scottish Greens.
Currently, the King and Queen are visiting Scotland for ‘Royal Week’ where they are hosting a variety of events across parts of the country.
Over £500 million is taken from the public purse every year to fund the monarchy’s lavish lifestyle.
Meanwhile, the UK Government is attacking disability benefits like Personal Independence Payment (PIP), and refuses to end the cruel two-child benefit cap; a simple action that would lift almost half a million children out of poverty overnight.
Polling shows that 57% of Scots want to abolish the outdated, undemocratic and unaffordable monarchy. If the UK were to do so, it would see a boost to budgets that could be put towards building a fairer, better society for everyone.
“It is time that we treat the Royal family as celebrities and stop publicly funding them. The monarchy is an outdated and increasingly unpopular institution, with many people now calling for it to be abolished in favour of becoming a republic.
“For too long, the billionaire royals have been bankrolled while providing very little back to the country other than some waving from balconies and state visits. If they were to stop being funded by the public purse, they would still survive on their own wealthy investments and celebrity appearances like other super-rich figures in the public eye do.
“This UK Government is quick to blame disabled and poor people for needing financial support, yet here is one of the richest families in the country receiving public funds on a level like nobody else does year after year without question.
“Keir Starmer is telling the country that his government must make tough decisions and to expect more cuts along the way, yet the cost of the royal family is now over half a billion pounds per year, and nobody blinks. Half a billion pounds that could be invested into the areas Labour intend to cut.
“As Scottish Greens, we recognise how desperately we need Scottish Independence to break away from this being the norm. We cannot afford to wait any longer for the full powers of devolution. It is time to become a self-governing country so that we can build a fairer, better, more responsible and more affordable democratic society for everyone.”
Detectives have released CCTV footage of a man they need to trace following a sexual assault in May.
A woman in her 20s reported that a man sexually assaulted her in Park Road, W7 at around 23:50hrs on Wednesday, 21 May. She is currently being supported by specialist officers.
The man followed the woman off the E1 bus, which takes a route from Ealing Broadway Station to Greenford Broadway.
As the bus approached Browning Avenue, W7, he sexually assaulted the woman as he alighted. He then followed her down Park Road, W7 where he assaulted her.
The man was seen on CCTV running north on Park Road following the incident, towards Browning Avenue and the E1 bus stop.
He is described as Black, in his late 20s or early 30s, and approximately 5ft 11in tall, with a slim build. He has dark, curly hair and was captured on CCTV wearing a black jacket and navy blue, Nike t-shirt.
Detective Constable Teresa Moore, leading the Met’s investigation, said: “Women and girls should be safe to travel on public transport – and walk the streets of London – without being attacked.
“This incident highlights the opportunistic behaviour of the offender so it is really important we locate him as soon as possible.”
If you have any relevant information to share – particularly if you were on the E1 bus on Wednesday, 21 May between 23:45hrs and 23:58hrs – please contact us on 101 immediately and quote 697/21MAY.
Eight people have been arrested in a coordinated Met Police operation targeting those conspiring to destroy ULEZ cameras.
In the early hours of Wednesday, 2 July officers executed warrants at addresses in London, Windsor and on the Isle of Sheppey.
The London arrests took place in Uxbridge, Ickenham, Northwood, Sutton and Eltham.
Six men and two women were arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit criminal damage.
One of the men is also alleged to have been involved in threatening and harassing the team sent to repair a damaged camera.
Those arrested remain in custody. Searches are ongoing at their addresses but officers have already recovered items related to the alleged offending.
Superintendent Paul Thomas, of the Met’s Roads and Transport Policing Command, said: “There is a big difference between lawful protest and plotting to destroy or seriously damage property.
“Some may think of this sort of behaviour as a victimless crime, but when cameras are damaged or destroyed it creates dangerous hazards, risking collisions on the road in addition to disruption for motorists and residents.
“We take these offences very seriously and officers will continue working closely with Transport for London and other partners to identify and build a case against those responsible.
“Today’s arrests are a significant development in what has been a long and complex investigation that is not yet over.
“I would appeal to anyone who has information about plans to target ULEZ cameras to come forward.”
If you have information, please call the police on 101, or the independent charity, Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111.
The IAEA conducted its first INEAS university mission in April in Ust Kamenogorsk, Kazakhstan, a country that is looking to restart its nuclear power programme. The mission — which engaged more than 90 participants from academia, government and industry — laid the ground for the development of a new bachelor’s degree programme in the ‘Operation of Nuclear Power Plants’ at the D. Serikbayev East Kazakhstan Technical University. It included curriculum workshops, technical visits and stakeholder consultations.
The IAEA also participated in an international forum with 14 expert presentations from Kazakhstan, Belarus and Russia, highlighting international best practices in nuclear education. Key outcomes included recommendations for planning national human resources development, curriculum enhancement, and expansion of cooperation through IAEA technical projects and STAR-NET, a regional network that promotes education and training in nuclear technologies.
“We are grateful to the IAEA for sending experts to our university to support the development of nuclear energy infrastructure. Their assistance also proved very helpful in designing the educational programme,” said Aizhan Baidildina, an associate professor at the the D. Serikbayev East Kazakhstan Technical University.
Kazakhstan, which is working with the IAEA to develop the infrastructure to reintroduce nuclear power, aims to complete its first nuclear power reactor in the next eight years. Its construction is expected to provide clean, reliable energy to the Central Asian country of 19 million people. Scientific and technical personnel are also being trained to operate the plant. Kazakhstan has the second largest uranium reserves in the world, accounting for 14 per cent of the global total. The country currently operates research reactors as well as several other nuclear installations related to the front end of the nuclear fuel cycle.
Source: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) –
The IAEA conducted its first INEAS university mission in April in Ust Kamenogorsk, Kazakhstan, a country that is looking to restart its nuclear power programme. The mission — which engaged more than 90 participants from academia, government and industry — laid the ground for the development of a new bachelor’s degree programme in the ‘Operation of Nuclear Power Plants’ at the D. Serikbayev East Kazakhstan Technical University. It included curriculum workshops, technical visits and stakeholder consultations.
The IAEA also participated in an international forum with 14 expert presentations from Kazakhstan, Belarus and Russia, highlighting international best practices in nuclear education. Key outcomes included recommendations for planning national human resources development, curriculum enhancement, and expansion of cooperation through IAEA technical projects and STAR-NET, a regional network that promotes education and training in nuclear technologies.
“We are grateful to the IAEA for sending experts to our university to support the development of nuclear energy infrastructure. Their assistance also proved very helpful in designing the educational programme,” said Aizhan Baidildina, an associate professor at the the D. Serikbayev East Kazakhstan Technical University.
Kazakhstan, which is working with the IAEA to develop the infrastructure to reintroduce nuclear power, aims to complete its first nuclear power reactor in the next eight years. Its construction is expected to provide clean, reliable energy to the Central Asian country of 19 million people. Scientific and technical personnel are also being trained to operate the plant. Kazakhstan has the second largest uranium reserves in the world, accounting for 14 per cent of the global total. The country currently operates research reactors as well as several other nuclear installations related to the front end of the nuclear fuel cycle.
The Minister for Infrastructure has signed a Commencement Order which means it will be illegal to import and supply single-use vapes in Jersey from Friday 1 August 2025.
Retailers have until 1 February 2026 to sell existing stocks of single-use vapes. This only applies to single-use vapes that were imported prior to the law coming into force and retailers may be asked to provide evidence of this. After the six-month sell-through period, it will be illegal for retailers to sell any single-use vapes.
If an individual bought one or more single-use vapes before the ban, they are still permitted to use them.
The ban follows amendments made to the Single-Use Plastics etc. (Restrictions) (Jersey) Amendment Law 2025 approved by the States Assembly in December 2024. This is because of their damaging impact on the environment. The change aims to help tackle the climate emergency and reduce Jersey’s waste.
A vape is considered single-use if it meets one or more of the following:
It cannot be reused
It cannot be refilled
Its battery cannot be recharged
Its coil cannot be replaced.
Vapes that are permitted must be designed to allow all of the above functions.
England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland banned the sale and supply of single use vapes from 1 June 2025 with no selling through period.
A SERIES of repairs is due to take place on roads across Leicester during the school summer holidays.
The city council is carrying out the programme of resurfacing work during the school break when there is less traffic on the city’s roads.
It will involve some temporary road closures and well signposted local diversions while the repairs are carried out.
Work takes place on Stoughton Drive, between Evington Drive and the Gartree roundabout, from Saturday 12 July, for eight days. The route will be closed in both directions during the work, which is costing around £240,000 and will see 6,750 square metres of road resurfaced.
On Avenue Road Extension, in Clarendon Park, there will be work between its junctions with Welford Road and Queens Road, from Saturday 19 July, for up to seven days.
Work will then begin on part of London Road, between its junctions with Mayfield Road and Evington Road, from Saturday 26 July for six days.
The Portwey and Tailby Avenue, between Hastings Road and Uppingham, Road will be resurfaced from Saturday 2 August, with work expected to take place over six days.
Roadworks are also planned for parts of Wicklow Drive, King Richards Road, Vulcan Road and Arran Road during August, with all schemes expected to be complete before the schools return on Tuesday 26 August.
In total, the planned summer roadworks programme will cost just over £1 million and will see over 26,000 square metres of road resurfaced.
Martin Fletcher, Leicester City Council director of city highways, said: “With the volume of traffic using the city’s roads, repairs and resurfacing work are necessary to keep the road network in good condition.
“Unfortunately, these works mean temporary road closures and disruption to some drivers, but that is unavoidable.
“We do try to carry out resurfacing and more disruptive roadworks during the school holidays when traffic is considerably reduced and will do all that we can to ensure that work is completed quickly and that roads can reopen on time.”
The planned summer roadworks are part of the city council’s annual highway capital maintenance programme that will see over £6 million invested in maintaining and improving the city’s highway infrastructure this year.
The IAEA conducted its first INEAS university mission in April in Ust Kamenogorsk, Kazakhstan, a country that is looking to restart its nuclear power programme. The mission — which engaged more than 90 participants from academia, government and industry — laid the ground for the development of a new bachelor’s degree programme in the ‘Operation of Nuclear Power Plants’ at the D. Serikbayev East Kazakhstan Technical University. It included curriculum workshops, technical visits and stakeholder consultations.
The IAEA also participated in an international forum with 14 expert presentations from Kazakhstan, Belarus and Russia, highlighting international best practices in nuclear education. Key outcomes included recommendations for planning national human resources development, curriculum enhancement, and expansion of cooperation through IAEA technical projects and STAR-NET, a regional network that promotes education and training in nuclear technologies.
“We are grateful to the IAEA for sending experts to our university to support the development of nuclear energy infrastructure. Their assistance also proved very helpful in designing the educational programme,” said Aizhan Baidildina, an associate professor at the the D. Serikbayev East Kazakhstan Technical University.
Kazakhstan, which is working with the IAEA to develop the infrastructure to reintroduce nuclear power, aims to complete its first nuclear power reactor in the next eight years. Its construction is expected to provide clean, reliable energy to the Central Asian country of 19 million people. Scientific and technical personnel are also being trained to operate the plant. Kazakhstan has the second largest uranium reserves in the world, accounting for 14 per cent of the global total. The country currently operates research reactors as well as several other nuclear installations related to the front end of the nuclear fuel cycle.
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Kyiv, July 2 (Xinhua) — Ukraine has not received any official notifications from the United States about the suspension or revision of the delivery schedules of previously approved military aid, the Ukrainian Defense Ministry reported on Telegram on Wednesday in response to media reports that the Pentagon had allegedly temporarily stopped supplying official Kyiv with some types of ammunition.
The Ministry of Defense noted that the department requested a telephone conversation with representatives of the United States to clarify all the details.
At the same time, the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry invited the US Chargé d’Affaires in Ukraine, John Ginkel, to discuss American military aid and defense cooperation between the two countries.
During the meeting, Deputy Foreign Minister of Ukraine Maryana Betsa thanked Washington for the security support provided to Kyiv since the beginning of the Russian-Ukrainian armed conflict and stressed the critical importance of continuing the delivery of previously approved military assistance.
The day before, the media reported that the Pentagon had allegedly suspended the transfer of certain types of precision-guided munitions to Ukraine due to the depletion of US stockpiles. –0–
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BEIJING, July 2 (Xinhua) — China’s electronic information industry recorded relatively rapid growth in the first five months of 2025, data from the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology showed.
According to the agency, the added value of large industry enterprises increased by 11.1 percent year-on-year during the specified period.
During the reporting period, the total revenue of large enterprises in the sector increased by 9.4 percent year-on-year to 6.49 trillion yuan (about 907.11 billion US dollars), and their total profit increased by 11.9 percent, amounting to 216.2 billion yuan.
Large companies in China’s electronic information sector are defined as those with annual revenues of 20 million yuan or more. –0–
July 2, 2025 – Ottawa – National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces
Exercise TRIDENT FURY 2025 (Ex TF25) concluded yesterday following two weeks of multinational training activities conducted across southern Vancouver Island. The exercise brought together over 1,000 military personnel, including five Royal Canadian Navy vessels, Royal Canadian Air Force aircrafts, Canadian Army personnel, and ships from the United States Navy, United States Coast Guard, and Mexican Navy.
Hosted by Maritime Forces Pacific, Ex TF25 focused on enhancing interoperability among allied and partner forces across a range of operations. These included anti-submarine warfare, uncrewed aircraft systems, gunnery and air defence, mine countermeasures, maritime interdiction, and defence against small boat attacks. This year’s iteration also included participation by the 4th Canadian Ranger Patrol Group, whose members contributed to surveillance training and sovereignty protection tasks.
Exercises like TRIDENT FURY are essential to sustaining the operational readiness of the Canadian Armed Forces and ensuring they remain agile and responsive in an evolving security environment. The successful completion of Ex TF25 demonstrates Canada’s commitment to advancing joint capability development and strengthening defence partnerships in support of regional and global stability.
MONTGOMERY — In recognition of National “Made in the USA” Day on July 2, 2025, Governor Kay Ivey today signed a formal proclamation celebrating Alabama’s manufacturing community and its critical role in driving economic growth across the state.
“On this ‘Made in the USA’ Day, we proudly salute the hardworking Alabamians who make our state a true manufacturing powerhouse,” saidGovernor Ivey. “Alabama ranks among the top five states for manufacturing job concentration, and that’s the result of strong partnerships, innovative thinking and a tireless commitment to quality.”
Manufacturing accounts for nearly 16% of Alabama’s Gross Domestic Product, with economic output exceeding $50 billion last year, according to data from the National Association of Manufacturers industry group.
The sector includes a broad range of industries, from automotive and aerospace to metals and kitchen appliances. It supports more than 290,000 jobs across all regions of Alabama.
Governor Ivey emphasized the continued focus of her Administration on strengthening this vital sector, which encompasses more than 4,000 enterprises across the state.
“We’re building for the future — through workforce training programs, infrastructure investment and a pro-growth business climate that attracts world-class companies to Alabama,” said Governor Ivey. “These efforts are paying off in the form of new jobs, rising wages and thriving communities.”
Alabama Department of Commerce Secretary Ellen McNair echoed the governor’s message, noting the strategic importance of manufacturing in the state’s long-term economic development goals.
“From motor vehicles and rockets to aircraft and steel, Alabama manufacturers are producing the goods that move the world,” said Secretary McNair. “This sector fuels innovation and opportunity across our state, and we are deeply committed to supporting its continued success.”
The Alabama Department of Commerce has played a key role in facilitating the state’s manufacturing momentum through initiatives like the Catalyst strategic plan, the Alabama Development Fund and other initiatives— all designed to accelerate job creation, upskill the workforce and open new opportunities in rural and urban areas alike.
Manufactured goods from Alabama are sold across the world, driving exports from the state to exceed $26.8 billion in value during 2024, the second highest annual figure. Motor vehicles are the state’s top export category, and Alabama ranks as the nation’s No. 2 auto-exporting state.
Manufacturing jobs in Alabama also provide for a good living. According to the National Association of Manufacturers, average annual wages in Alabama’s manufacturing sector exceed $85,000.
“Manufacturing remains the backbone of Alabama’s economy, and our industry is powered by the incredible men and women who show up every day to make world-class products,” said Manufacture Alabama President and CEO Jon Bargainer.
“Thanks to Governor Ivey’s leadership and the strength of our workforce, the industry continues to thrive, contributing positively to both urban and rural communities throughout our state,” added Bargainer. “Manufacturers offer some of the most meaningful careers that support Alabama’s families and secure a prosperous future.”
WASHINGTON, D.C.– Today, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02)cosponsored H.R. 1314, the Tipped Income Protection and Support (TIPS) Actto permanently eliminate federal income taxes on tips and end the sub-minimum wage for tipped workers.
“This bill is about justice, dignity, and economic fairness for the workers who keep our restaurants, hotels, and service industries running,” said Vasquez. “No one working a full-time job should be stuck with a $2.13 wage or taxed on the tips they rely on to make ends meet. This legislation puts more money back in the pockets of hardworking New Mexicans and ensures no one is left behind in today’s economy.”
The TIPS Actwould exempt tipped income from federal income tax for workers earning under $112,500 annually and end the federal tipped minimum wage, currently set at just $2.13 an hour. Nearly six million Americans rely on tips to pay the bills, with many earning less than $37,000 a year.
The TIPS Actpermanently protects Americans’ tips income from federal taxation. By contrast, the no tax on tips provisions in the Big Ugly Big exempt taxes on tips for only four years – while cutting health care benefits for millions to pay for permanent tax breaks for the wealthy.
Rep. Vasquez remains committed to lowering costs and delivering real results for New Mexico’s working families. He previously introduced a package of tax bills to benefit the middle class, address rising costs, and incentives businesses to hire veterans.
WASHINGTON, D.C.– Today, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) joined bipartisan members of the Congressional Native American Caucus in urging House leadership to protect and strengthen federal funding for Tribal programs in the Fiscal Year 2026 budget.
In a letter to House Appropriations Chairman Tom Cole and Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro, the lawmakers called on Congress to fully uphold the United States’ trust and treaty obligations to Tribal Nations by preserving and expanding investments in Tribal health, education, infrastructure, law enforcement, and self-governance programs.
“When America makes a promise,we should keep it. The federal government has a legal and moral obligation to uphold its trust and treaty obligations to Tribal Nations,” saidVasquez. “This funding helps ensure New Mexico’s Tribes and Pueblos receive the full support they deserve so they can keep everything from the Indian Health Service to Tribal schools and justice systems up and running.”
The lawmakers emphasized that funding for Tribal Nations is not discretionary—it is a federal responsibility. The letter highlighted the importance of supporting Tribal Nations and their development by expanding flexible and consistent funding and supporting the federal employees and offices that deliver Tribal services.
Rep. Vasquez continues to champion investments that promote economic growth, improve public safety, and enhance quality of life in Tribal communities — efforts that benefit not only Tribal Nations but all of New Mexico and the country.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Speech
King’s Birthday Party 2025: His Majesty’s Ambassador Alyson King’s speech
His Majesty’s Ambassador to the Democratic Republic of Congo Alyson King’s speech on the King’s Birthday Party delivered on 19 June.
Your Excellency the President of the Republic, represented here by his principal advisor in charge of the College of Environment, Urban Planning and Mobility, HE Ambassador Tosi Mpanu Mpanu,
Honourable Senators and Members of Parliament,
Your Excellencies, distinguished members of the national and provincial governments, and their representatives here present,
Madam SRSG and Head of MONUSCO,
Excellencies, my fellow Ambassadors and heads of international organisations,
Dear members of the diplomatic corps and international organisations,
Distinguished religious and civil authorities, members of political parties,
Dear partners,
Eminent representatives of civil society and the world of culture,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Distinguished guests,
Dear friends,
All protocol observed
Boyei malamu na moto nyonso! (Welcome to everyone!)
Thank you all for coming. Your presence helps to create a special atmosphere as we celebrate the official birthday of King Charles III. It’s also an opportunity to celebrate the links between the UK and the DRC.
The UK established its first diplomatic mission here in 1902, when a British consulate was built in the then capital, Boma.
But even though our relationship is 123 years old this year, I think we’re just getting started!
I’m going to repeat what I said last year:
We still do not know each other as well as we might. It remains my firm conviction that the more we know and understand each other, the more opportunities we will find to do good things together.
That’s enough recycling, at least for words!
The past year has been marked by undeniably negative events, and I’d like to say a few words about them before turning to more encouraging aspects.
In January, the battle for Goma began when Rwandan troops and the M23 attacked. Many civilians died, as did members of MONUSCO and SAMIDRC. Many people were forced to move – once again – and numerous human rights violations were committed by all the actors on the ground. I was forced to close our office in Goma.
A few days later, several embassies – both African and Western – and diplomatic residences in Kinshasa were attacked and looted. Perhaps the oldest principle of international public law is “don’t shoot the messenger”. Peaceful demonstration is an essential democratic right and freedom; as diplomats, we are there to understand and convey messages, particularly when the situation is difficult. But this type of violence is unacceptable and counter-productive. It delayed the international response to events in the east of the country rather than encouraging it.
Today, a record 5 million people live under occupation in the east of the DRC, under the administration of a UN-sanctioned rebel group.
I want to be very clear.
The UK Government condemns the actions of all illegal armed groups in eastern DRC, including the M23. The UK Government has expressed its deep concern about the support of the Rwandan Defence Forces (RDF) to the M23 in offensives that violate the territorial integrity of the Democratic Republic of Congo. In response, the UK Government has announced a major reassessment of its policy towards Kigali, including the suspension of the majority of its financial support.
Security Council Resolution 2773, adopted unanimously by its 15 members, calls for the immediate and unconditional withdrawal of the M23 and the RDF. It has not yet been implemented. We welcome all the efforts currently being made to find a political solution to this situation.
At a time when the international system based on norms and international law is being called into question, whether in the Middle East, Ukraine, Sudan or the DRC, leadership is required more than ever.
This leadership must be both courageous and wise, ready to take the necessary difficult measures and brave reforms.
Against this backdrop, there are many reasons to be optimistic about relations between the UK and the DRC.
You’ll see many examples of our collaboration in this garden.
I’m delighted to welcome back some of our Chevening alumni, and even more delighted to announce that we are increasing the number of scholarships available to talented young Congolese leaders to study for a Masters degree, fully funded by the UK, in the UK.
Much of the UK’s work in the country is targeted at communities in the east. For example, new UK funding will provide clean water and sanitation to around 200,000 displaced people, in partnership with UNICEF and the SAFER consortium.
On this day, International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict, I would like to underline the priority that the UK Government gives to supporting survivors of sexual violence and fighting impunity. I reiterate my congratulations to the DRC for being the first state in the world to condemn the crime of forced pregnancy. I hope we can work together to provide global leadership on these vital issues in the years ahead.
We congratulate the DRC on its election to the Security Council as of 1 January and look forward to working together on issues crucial to international peace and security.
In the field of health, our partnerships with UNICEF and the WHO are supporting the government’s response to the ongoing Mpox and cholera epidemics, and helping more than 4.4 million Congolese people. I was delighted to meet some Mpox survivors in Kinshasa recently; one young man thought he would never get out of hospital alive because he was so ill. Looking at him today, you’d never guess, he’s so healthy and cheerful.
On climate and the environment, the UK co-chairs the Donor College of the Congo Basin Forest Partnership in the Central African Forest Initiative (CAFI). Our new £90 million action programme supports local communities around the Yangambi Biosphere Reserve, improving economic livelihoods while preserving forests and nature.
And I’m proud that our programme is also building the DRC’s capacity in climate science in collaboration with British universities.
I would like to salute the work of the Head of State, for his renewed commitment to economic reform. Tangible improvements to the business climate, such as simpler and more predictable procedures and taxation, as well as greater transparency, will attract foreign direct investment and lead to the creation of well-paid jobs.
British companies have shown their interest in the economic potential of the DRC. For example, British International Investment’s investment alongside DP World in the DRC’s first deep-water container port at Banana will open up new infrastructure and international trade opportunities for the country.
As a global centre of mining expertise, trade and finance, the UK is particularly well placed to support the DRC’s ambition to develop its mining sector and bring its critical minerals, which are vital to global economies, to all Congolese.
This evening, I’m delighted that several Congolese companies with links to the UK are here, and in particular several of them have been able to contribute to this fantastic event.
I would like to thank our generous sponsors: Socimex, Rawbank, Vodacom, G4S, Helios Towers, HJ Hospital, Médecins de Nuit, Diageo, Canalbox, Manga Flore Gardening Services, Centre Médical Diamant and BAM’s Clean, without whom this evening would not have been possible.
My thanks also go to my team who work tirelessly, not just for this event, but also for their dedication on a daily basis enabling the Embassy to function well and for us make a difference.
Dear guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
The Democratic Republic of Congo is an important partner and friend for the United Kingdom. In recent years, the ties of friendship between our two countries have grown stronger. H.E. President Felix Tshisekedi was one of the first heads of state to meet His Majesty King Charles III after his accession to the throne.
We salute the work of H.E. Mrs Judith Suminwa, the first female Prime Minister of the DRC, and all the members of the Government present here today.
My country’s wish is to embark on the next phase of this relationship, working in collaboration with the DRC’s leaders, civil society, businesses and health and climate experts.
I sincerely hope that we’ll get to know each other better and that we’ll achieve even more great things together.
The council is working on the trial with others to prove how Technology Enabled Care (TEC) can help improve lives.
The pilot is led by WM5G on behalf of the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) and funded by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) under the 5G Innovation Region scheme.
It is focused on the eligible care and support needs of people aged 65 and over, people with learning disabilities and those with physical disabilities.
As part of the project technology being used in people’s homes to support care needs includes devices and voice activated wireless technologies such as video care phones, smart speakers, smart doorbells and smart smoke alarms.
Residents have also been making use of digital pendants helping keep them safe at home and when out and about through location pinpointing, fall detection and direct communication with emergency support.
Wolverhampton resident Carol, who has vascular dementia, is among the participants, supported by WM5G digital care navigators and her daughter Caroline.
She said: “This technology is like having a friend. I don’t feel alone, I feel safe, and that has given me a lot of confidence both in and out of the house.”
Caroline said: “Mum is of a generation where technology is not really their thing at all, but this is easy to use, and the support team have been brilliant talking her through it. It has been very beneficial and reassuring for us.”
You can watch Carol and her daughter talk more about the TEC trial by watching the video here.
Councillor Paula Brookfield, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Adults, said: “While we are in the early stages of understanding the potential of this technology, it can help make a positive difference providing tailored packages, optimising carer visits and delaying the need for additional care.”
Councillor Jeszemma Howl, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Governance and Digital, said: “It is lovely to hear how putting technology to use in this way can transform the lives of people like Carol right across our city, empowering independence and improving wellbeing.”
More than 301 referrals have been made in Wolverhampton alone since the start of the project in September 2024 with over 2,500 pieces of TEC equipment deployed to support independent living.
Findings from the project will help inform a business case for development of TEC in the future.
Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Russia’s border regions continue to develop systematically, despite external challenges. Kursk Oblast is increasing the pace of resettlement of dilapidated housing. This was reported by Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin.
“Residents of border areas today face difficult challenges. In such conditions, it is especially important to provide them with support. Our task is not only to ensure safety, but also to help maintain confidence in the future, creating conditions for a comfortable life. Kursk Region has successfully completed the program of resettling houses recognized as unsafe before January 2017. To provide additional support to the region, the remainder of unused funds allocated for the resettlement of such houses have been redistributed. The Territorial Development Fund has approved the corresponding application. This will allow resettling another 90 residents from 45 residential premises with a total area of over 1,000 square meters, recognized as unsuitable after 2017,” said Marat Khusnullin.
According to the acting governor of Kursk region Alexander Khinshtein, dozens of buildings in the region have been declared unfit for habitation: cracks in load-bearing structures, rotten floors, emergency communications. People have been waiting for resettlement in these difficult conditions for years.
“Therefore, the decision of the Territorial Development Fund to allocate almost 91 million rubles is a critically important step. We are grateful for this support, and we will continue to persistently seek the allocation of additional resources from the federal center for these needs,” said Alexander Khinshtein.
The operator of the program for the resettlement of emergency housing is the Territorial Development Fund.
“The main goals of the program are to ensure comfortable living conditions for citizens and reduce the dilapidated housing stock. Since 2019, more than 850 thousand residents have been resettled from 14.5 million square meters of dilapidated housing in Russia. In the Kursk region alone, 1.6 thousand people have moved from 22.2 thousand square meters. The program is being implemented as part of the national project “Infrastructure for Life”, – noted the company’s general director Vasily Kupyzin.
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.
Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
The selection stage of the seventh stream of the “Architects.rf” program, which is carried out by the state company “DOM.RF”, has been completed. 100 finalists were determined at a committee meeting, which was attended by 22 experts, including representatives of educational institutions, heads of regional authorities, chief architects of cities and regions, as well as graduates of the program from previous years. This was reported by Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin.
“The profession of an architect plays an important role in creating a comfortable urban environment. The cities we will live in tomorrow, how comfortable, beautiful and harmonious they will be, depend on their professionalism. This is why the “Architects.rf” program is so important. This year, it received a record 1,233 applications from specialists from 87 regions of the country – this is the best result in the seven years of the project, which is being implemented on behalf of the President. It is currently being carried out within the framework of the national project “Infrastructure for Life”. Currently, the selection stage of the seventh stream of this program has been completed and 100 finalists have been determined, who will soon begin their studies. This program helps to fill the shortage of qualified personnel for the development of cities, and also forms a new generation of professionals capable of creating a comfortable and modern environment. Thus, more than 600 graduates are already contributing to the transformation of Russian territories – from megacities to small towns,” said Marat Khusnullin.
The finalists included representatives of 14 professions: architects and urban planners, representatives of state and municipal authorities, urbanists, developers, sociologists, ecologists and other specialists from all over the country. The leaders among cities in terms of the number of program participants were Moscow, St. Petersburg, Kazan, Yekaterinburg and Irkutsk.
“This year, when launching a new stream of “Architects.rf”, we felt the support of the regions and the expert community more than ever. Today, when goals have been set for the development of our cities and agglomerations, the country needs professionals who understand how to achieve these goals efficiently and in a timely manner. Specialists from 61 cities and 52 regions have joined the program – from the Baltic to the Bering Sea, many of them already have considerable experience in creating comfortable urban spaces. One of the important achievements of the project is the formed community of managers who are already implementing their projects, including solutions for the preservation of historical heritage, national cultural codes and traditions,” said Vitaly Mutko, General Director of “DOM.RF”.
At the first stage of the competitive selection, participants filled out questionnaires and sent their portfolios to the competition organizers for consideration. The next step was a video interview, in which candidates shared their professional experience and views on various aspects of urban development.
Participants in the qualification selection will undergo an educational program lasting about 8 months, consisting of 4 full-time modules. It includes various training formats: research trips around Russia and abroad, lectures, meetings with experts and work in project groups. The first module will be held in Moscow in July and will be dedicated to the development of professional competencies of the participants. The training format includes lectures, trainings, practical classes, educational expeditions and much more.
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.
Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Patrushev held a meeting within the framework of incident No. 58 “Organization of the system for handling municipal solid waste”. The work was attended by the management of relevant departments, industry companies, heads of regions and representatives of the Federal Assembly.
“We continue to move steadily towards solving the tasks outlined by the President to form a closed-loop economy. In recent months, six solid municipal waste handling facilities have been commissioned – in Perm Krai, Tomsk and Lipetsk Oblasts, the Udmurt Republic and the Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Okrug. Their combined capacity is 0.5 million tons for processing and 170 thousand tons for disposal of solid municipal waste,” said Dmitry Patrushev.
The Deputy Prime Minister noted that, according to plans, five more facilities should be completed by the end of the year.
In accordance with the Presidential Decree, sorting by 2030 should reach 100%, and landfill disposal should decrease to 50%, while a quarter of the waste should be returned for recirculation. At present, 57% of waste is processed in our country, and slightly more than 80% is sent to landfills. Dmitry Patrushev emphasized that the dynamics of achieving planned values ahead of schedule must be maintained, while increasing the scale of infrastructure construction.
The Deputy Prime Minister also noted a positive trend during the first half of the year in a number of regions in terms of updating the fleet of special equipment, equipping container sites and purchasing containers. Dmitry Patrushev instructed to continue this work under the supervision of the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Russian Ecological Operator.
The incident was used to analyze the work on concluding concession agreements for the construction of industry infrastructure. In March of this year, the Government provided such an opportunity to 19 regions. The Deputy Prime Minister instructed to speed up the conclusion of such agreements.
The issue of supplying garbage trucks to the constituent entities of the Russian Federation under the preferential leasing program, launched for the first time this year, was also raised. The limit provided for 2025 is 420 million rubles. This will ensure the supply of more than 1.2 thousand vehicles to the regions.
The incident meeting discussed the introduction of a system for photographic recording of the state of sites in the country with the transfer of data to the federal system for recording solid municipal waste. Following the meeting, seven regions were recommended to eliminate the backlog and ensure the introduction of the system into operation.
Incident No. 58 “Organization of a system for handling municipal solid waste” was created on the instructions of the Chairman of the Government to ensure the implementation of reform in the area of waste management.
When working in the incident format, a special project management system is used, which is deployed on the basis of the Government Coordination Center. It allows for prompt coordination of the actions of participants and monitoring of project implementation in real time.
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.
Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov is acting as a mentor for a participant in the presidential personnel program, implemented by the Higher School of Public Administration of the Presidential Academy.
Lieutenant Colonel Nikolai Shpitonkov is a Hero of Russia, holder of two Orders of Courage, and was awarded the Nesterov Medal. During the meeting, the mentor and participant agreed that Nikolai would undergo his first internship in the direction of the country’s defense complex.
“It is a great honor for me to undergo an internship under such an experienced mentor as Denis Valentinovich. It is important for me to try to adopt everything that he considers necessary to teach me, given his enormous experience. Today, during our first meeting, we discussed the areas in which I would be interested in developing, and outlined the key aspects of the upcoming internship. I am grateful to Denis Valentinovich for his attention and involvement in the issues of my training,” said Nikolai Shpitonkov.
Let us recall that Denis Manturov is also a mentor of the participant of the first stream of the “Time of Heroes” program, holder of three Orders of Courage Denis Pogodin.
The goal of the program is to train leaders from among the participants of the special military operation for subsequent work in state and municipal authorities, as well as state-owned companies. The program is implemented by the Higher School of Public Administration of the Presidential Academy in cooperation with the Senezh Management Workshop.
The selection criteria for the training program were: demonstrated heroism within the framework of the SVO, management experience and achievements in the military or civilian spheres, as well as the results of assessment activities to determine management potential.
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.