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  • MIL-OSI Russia: Visitors to the Moscow Estates festival can take quizzes in the Russpass game

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Residents and visitors of the capital will be able to test their knowledge of Moscow in quizzes of a virtual game, which is available in a mobile application tourist service Russpass. Completing them will help you earn bonuses faster to buy tickets to museums and other venues with a discount of up to 99 percent within the Russpass bonus program. You can go on your first game journey to the festival venues of the Moscow Estates project.

    How to participate in the quiz

    Virtual characters of the game – cartoons – live near historical landmarks, on the capital’s streets and in parks. You can find them using your smartphone and explore the city from a new angle. It is absolutely necessary to complete a quiz if such a task is offered by a cartoon. But in this case, more bonuses are awarded than just for catching cartoon characters.

    The quiz questions are about museum exhibits, the histories of masterpieces, architectural innovations and features of estates. For example, where does the name “Basmanny” come from? What architectural innovation emphasized the status of houses in the Arbatsky district in the 19th century? What is unique about the building of the Leo Tolstoy Museum-Estate in Khamovniki?

    To get a bonus, it is enough to answer at least two questions correctly. One quiz can be taken three times. Hints are available – the correct answers are on the exhibition stands inside the estate clusters. Hints can also be found on a special page of the service Ruspassdedicated to the festival. In order not to miss new quizzes, on the map with cartoons in the filter you should put a tick next to the swan icon.

    Residents of the capital and tourists over the age of 14 can take part in the game. To do this, you need to download the application Ruspass. After registration, a map of Moscow will open with the habitats of cartoons in different districts. The game sites are constantly changing so that the characters can visit different iconic places of the city. Bonuses received in the game can be spent on buying tickets to museums – partners of Russpass, on attractions, trips to master classes and more. Recently, the game became interregional: cartoons can be caught in St. Petersburg and Kazan.

    In addition, the augmented reality game based on the Russpass mobile application has been replenished with new summer cartoons that can be caught on the streets of the capital near the sights. They are created in the special style of the Summer in Moscow project. Among them are a butterfly, a bird, a squirrel, a robot and a cat — the mascot of the Russpass service. The cartoons will appear at more than 90 sites of the main project of the season — in parks, swimming pools, near the Made in Moscow art pavilions, on boulevards and central streets.

    Interesting Moscow

    The large-scale project “Moscow Estates”, which is held as part of the “Summer in Moscow” project, introduces city residents and tourists to the rich history and cultural heritage of the capital. In the new season, visitors will enjoy masterpieces of classical music, immersive performances, master classes for the whole family and other interactive formats that will help immerse themselves in the atmosphere of ancient estates – more than two thousand events in total. This summer, the number of venues increased to 50, and the festival program united three estate clusters in Khamovniki, on Arbat and in the Basmanny District.

    In 2020, the digital tourism service Russpass began operating. It was created on the initiative of the Moscow Government. The project is supervised by the capital Tourism Committee together withDepartment of Information Technology.

    Since its creation, the Russpass service has grown into a full-fledged ecosystem. Thanks to the service, it is easy to plan a trip, book tickets and a hotel, and select excursions. The online publication “Russpass-magazine” will help you learn everything about traveling around Russia. And for representatives of the tourism industry, the portal “Russpass. Business” has been operating since June 2023.

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

    Children will be able to explore the capital’s sights as part of “Summer in Moscow”

    Quickly find out the main news of the capital inofficial 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/155869073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Indian Culture Festival to be held in Moscow from July 5 to 13

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    From July 5 to 13, Manezhnaya Square, one of the central sites of the project, “Summer in Moscow”— the festival of India will be held in Moscow. Residents and guests of the capital will be able to learn more about the culture and traditions of this friendly state, reported Natalia Sergunina, Deputy Mayor of Moscow.

    The organizers are the Government of Moscow and the Embassy of the Republic of India in the Russian capital.

    The site, decorated with hundreds of exotic plants, will house chalets with national treats and souvenirs.

    “As part of the cultural program, hundreds of events will be prepared for visitors: colorful performances, dance master classes, Hindi lessons and much more. Every day, morning and evening, there will be performances by Russian and Indian groups,” said Natalia Sergunina.

    During the festival, foreign masters will organize creative classes for everyone. For example, participants will try to play the double drum tabla, get acquainted with the movements of Kathak and Kuchipudi dances, and master the basics of spoken Hindi. In addition, an exhibition of art objects from several regions of India will open on Manezhnaya Square.

    Attracting tourists

    Moscow cooperates with India in all key areas, from trade and creative industries to tourism.

    “India ranks second in terms of tourist flow to the Russian capital among foreign countries. In the first quarter of 2025 alone, about 18 thousand Indian travelers visited our city – 1.5 times more than a year earlier,” added Natalia Sergunina.

    “Summer in Moscow” is the main project of the warm season, which will unite over 400 venues. Its program includes large-scale festivals, charity and sports events, concerts, master classes, film screenings, theatrical performances and much more.

    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/155858073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Watch a movie and listen to jazz: the Moskino cinema park program on June 28 and 29

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    On June 28 and 29, the Moskino Cinema Park will host master classes, performances by jazz bands, circus shows, a musical quest and other events.

    Master classes

    On Saturday and Sunday from 12:00 to 19:00, three creative classes for children and adults will be held on the central square: “Spoon Stylization,” “Art Guitar,” and “Mini Xylophone.”

    Participants will be offered to paint an old musical instrument – a wooden spoon, decorate a mini-xylophone with sticks and acrylic paints, and also make a mini-guitar or drums from cardboard and music discs. Participation in the master classes is included in the price movie park ticketCash payment is not accepted.

    Concerts

    Concerts will be held at three venues: the Pitersky Bar, the Gonzaga Theatre and the central square. You can attend them atentrance ticket to the cinema park or pay by QR code at the information center. Cash payments are not accepted.

    On June 28 and 29 at 1:30 pm and 3:30 pm, the Gonzaga Theatre will host Kors Band duet. At 14:30 and 16:30 the Melody-Harmony trio under the direction of Olga Vesnina will perform famous jazz compositions, and at 18:00 the singer will perform Eteri Beriashvili.

    On June 29 at 2:00 PM, 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM the Gonzaga Theatre will host a concert by the Horizons group under the direction of saxophonist Mikhail Shumakov.

    On Saturday and Sunday, the central square will host street performances by the drum group Las Venturas from 12:00 to 18:30. They will perform dynamic melodies on metal tanks. At the Pitersky Bar venue at 13:00, 14:30 and 16:00 there will be light show with drums. And at 14:00, 15:00 and 16:00 the jazz quartet Jazz B’S Poems will perform here. The musicians will perform works onsaxophone, drums, trumpet and trombone.

    Concert attendance is included in the price of admission to the cinema park. Tickets can be purchased online atwebsite or at the information center of the cinema park using a QR code, cash payment is not accepted.

    More details about the program can be found atwebsite.

    Musical quest

    An interactive quest will be held at the sites “County Town”, “Moscow of the 1940s”, “Moscow Yard” and “Natural Chromakey” “In the rhythm of the cinema park”. You can take part in it during the weekend from 11:00 to 19:00. Guests will be able to immerse themselves in the culture of jazz, rock and roll, blues and swing, learn about these genres and their history, and also become part of one of the dance teams.

    You can purchase tickets online atwebsite or at the information center of the cinema park using a QR code, cash payment is not accepted.

    Film screenings and circus performances

    On the big screen, guests will see the comedies “Little Chef”, “To the Village with Grandfather”, “Materialist”, the fantasy “Artek. Through the Centuries”, as well as the animated film “Three Bogatyrs. Not a Day Without a Feat – 2”. Tickets are paid separately and are not included in the price of the entrance ticket to the cinema park.

    On weekends, visitors to the circus tent will see dizzying gymnastic tricks, funny clown skits and performances involving lions. The performances will take place in a tent on the festival site at 2:00 PM and 6:00 PM. The event is not included in the price of admission to the cinema park. You can buy tickets to the circus atwebsiteWhen visiting only the circus, you do not need to buy an entrance ticket to the cinema park.

    The Moskino cinema park program contributes to the implementation of the goals and objectives of the national project “Family” in the city of Moscow.

    The Summer in Moscow project is the main event of the season. It brings together the most vibrant events in the capital. Every day, charity, cultural and sports programs are held in all areas of the city, most of which are free. The Summer in Moscow project is being held for the second time, and the new season will be more eventful: new, original and colorful events will be added to the traditional festivals and events.

    The Moskino cinema park is part of Sergei Sobyanin’s “Moscow – City of Cinema” project and an object of the Moscow cinema cluster, which is being developed by the capital Department of CultureThe first stage of development has already been completed here: 24 natural sites, four pavilions and six infrastructure facilities have been built, including the sets “Center of Moscow”, “Moscow in the 1940s”, “Vitebsk Station”, “Yurovo Airport”, “Cathedral Square of Moscow”, “Deaf Village”, “County Town”, “Cowboy Town”, “St. Petersburg Bar” and others.

    The Cinema Park is actively developing as a cultural and leisure venue. Exhibitions, master classes, lectures, meetings with famous actors and other events for Muscovites and guests of the capital are held here.

    How to get there, where to buy a ticket and what to take with you: instructions for guests of the Moskino cinema park

    The Moscow Film Cluster is an infrastructure facility, services and facilities for filmmakers, which are being developed by the Moscow Government within the framework of the Moscow — City of Cinema project. Its structure includes the Moskino Film Park, the Gorky Film Studio (sites on Sergei Eisenstein Street and Valdaisky Proyezd), the Moskino Film Factory, the Moskino Cinema Network, the Film Commission and the Moskino Film Platform.

    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/155861073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: /China Focus/ 2025 Summer Davos Discusses Interaction of Sustainable Development and AI in Global Cooperation

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    TIANJIN, June 26 (Xinhua) — Summer Davos 2025, a leading barometer of global economic trends and industrial transformation, has attracted a record number of participants in recent years, with more than 1,700 representatives from around the world.

    Its popularity is a testament to both the influence of the forum, which runs from Tuesday to Thursday in the northern Chinese city of Tianjin, and the unprecedented appeal of China’s mega-market.

    The forum, also known as the 16th annual meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF) of emerging global leaders, is being held this year under the theme “Entrepreneurial Spirit for a New Era”.

    “This theme, which has been at the core of the meeting’s DNA since its inception, places particular emphasis on how innovation, entrepreneurship and technological advancement can unlock the potential for growth, competitiveness and productivity,” WEF Managing Director Mirek Dušek said at the forum’s opening press conference on Tuesday.

    This year’s event focuses on five key areas: interpreting the global economy, China’s prospects, industries in a changing world, investing in people and the planet, and new energy and materials.

    Unlike the WEF’s annual meeting in January in Davos, Switzerland, “Summer Davos” focuses more on the future of business and technological progress. This year’s forum not only showcases China’s achievements in high-quality economic development and its strong commitment to high-level opening up to the outside world, but also serves as a platform for actively sharing the opportunities and dividends of its development with the rest of the world.

    GREEN TRANSFORMATION

    On the roof of the Tianjin National Exhibition and Convention Center, where Summer Davos is being held for the first time, solar panels provide a continuous supply of clean energy to power the event site.

    According to State Grid Corporation of China, the forum achieved 100 percent green power supply for its facilities, using a total of 800,000 kWh of renewable electricity, equivalent to saving about 300 tons of standard fuel and reducing carbon emissions by about 600 tons.

    The event venue uses photovoltaic energy generation and sponge city technologies to replace traditional energy sources with renewable ones, reduce the carbon footprint of infrastructure and significantly improve the efficiency of energy, water and materials use.

    Sustainability is at the heart of WEF events, said Severin Podolak, Head of Event Management at WEF, adding that sofas and other furniture at venues are made from materials recycled in 2023, and some of the paint used in decoration comes from renewable resources such as fishing nets.

    In addition, a fleet of hundreds of electric vehicles from six leading car manufacturers, including Audi FAW, provides clean and low-carbon transportation for forum participants, contributing to the event’s carbon neutrality goals.

    The concept of green development was carefully and comprehensively integrated everywhere: from the design of the venues to the brochure with the forum agenda, where key topics such as Asian carbon markets and further steps in climate change adaptation became central points of discussions directly related to sustainable development.

    Green nitrogen fixation has been included in the WEF’s “Top 10 Breakthrough Technologies for 2025” list, alongside innovations such as participatory sensing and autonomous biosensing, further highlighting the trend towards sustainable development becoming a global priority.

    Today, China is the world leader in renewable energy investment and has pioneered transformative technologies in batteries and electric vehicles, creating millions of quality jobs in these promising sectors, said WEF Managing Director Jim Hui Neo.

    “I think there is huge potential in this area to learn from the Chinese experience, where constructive partnerships can be formed between China and other parts of the world to support the global energy transition,” she said, adding that “the climate emergency and the planetary crisis cannot be resolved unless everyone is united in this journey.”

    AI REVOLUTION

    The futuristic exhibition area has become a major attraction, where cutting-edge AI products such as humanoid robots, brain-computer interfaces, and fully autonomous drone inspection systems attract numerous visitors. These innovations vividly showcase the technological breakthroughs of Chinese enterprises and the pioneering application of AI.

    “China may have found the key to restarting global economic growth – its ‘AI Plus’ strategy,” said Liu Gang, chief economist at the China Institute of Next-Generation Artificial Intelligence Development Strategies.

    He explained that the integration of artificial intelligence with the real sector of the economy provides remarkable economic advantages. For example, his team’s research shows that the use of AI in the development of new materials can increase efficiency by 100-1000 times.

    Discussions on AI are unfolding with unusual intensity across the various sessions at Summer Davos 2025, mirroring the heated debates at other leading global forums. Notably, a special session on “Understanding China’s Approach to AI” will be convened, highlighting the growing international recognition of China’s key role in global AI development.

    “It will be like an industrial revolution,” former British Prime Minister Tony Blair said, speaking about new technologies at the forum. Countries that embrace it go up, and countries that don’t go down, he said.

    “I think understanding, harnessing and using the technological revolution is the greatest government challenge of the 21st century,” he said.

    GLOBAL SYNERGY

    Global growth forecasts are at their lowest in decades, according to the WEF. Reviving the spirit of cooperation will require unprecedented commitment and creativity.

    Nankai University Professor Tong Jiadong, who has long led the China Agenda Research Team for the Tianjin Summer Davos, noted that the event has evolved from a leading global summit of thought leaders into a dynamic platform for promoting international exchange and cooperation.

    Zhao Yan, Chairman and CEO of China’s Bloomage Biotech, is a regular participant in Summer Davos. Over the years, the company has built a global supply network in more than 70 countries and regions around the world.

    “Despite complex uncertainties, the enterprise has never resorted to isolationism, but instead strives to reformat the global rules of competition through open innovation,” Zhao Yan said.

    In the first five months of this year, China’s total import and export volume of goods grew by 2.5 percent year on year, and the consumption enthusiasm of foreign visitors to China increased significantly.

    “We value our cooperation with China very much. We are seeing increasing interest and engagement here,” said WEF President Borge Brende. “I am relatively optimistic about the Chinese economy in both the medium and long term,” he added. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Russian woman becomes famous on social media after saving drowning elderly Chinese woman in eastern China

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    HANGZHOU, June 26 (Xinhua) — Russian citizen Shahnaz Gubaidullina saved an elderly Chinese woman from drowning in the city of Shaoxing in east China’s Zhejiang Province on Monday morning.

    According to local media, Shahnaz was walking on a bridge in Yuecheng District when she saw an elderly woman who had fallen into a river. Without hesitation, she jumped into the water to save the drowning woman. “I have been able to swim since I was a child, so I jumped into the river without thinking twice,” she said.

    According to Shahnaz’s recollections, the elderly woman was choking on a large amount of water and was already unconscious when the Russian woman grabbed her. The girl tightly grabbed the elderly woman from behind with her arms and tried with great difficulty to reach the shore.

    At this time, passers-by noticed them and extended a long rescue pole to them. With the help of passers-by, the woman was successfully rescued.

    Shahnaz, who came to China in 2016 and recently graduated from Huzhou University in Huzhou, Zhejiang Province, was traveling in Shaoxing when the incident occurred.

    After the incident, the relatives of the rescued woman invited the girl to their place so that she could rest and change into new clean clothes that they bought for her.

    “They still kept my contacts and invited me to visit them the next time I come to Shaoxing,” the Russian woman said.

    The rescue process was filmed on video, which immediately went viral on social media. After that, many locals met Shahnaz.

    “Kindness knows no national borders! What a responsive and brave girl,” one Internet user wrote in the comments under the post about the incident.

    “Well done, Russian girl!”, “Cool!” – read the most frequent comments praising the girl and her feat.

    By Monday evening, Shahnaz, who had completed her heroic deed, entered a store in the city of Shaoxing, where the shop assistants immediately recognized her. “They gave me free fruit as a token of gratitude,” the Russian woman told Xinhua News Agency.

    According to Shahnaz, this is a trivial matter for her and she does not consider herself a heroine at all. “This is an event in life that can happen to anyone. I could not leave my grandmother without help… This is a natural human reaction,” the girl said.

    “People in Russia are very kind and responsive. They are always ready to help,” Shahnaz emphasized.

    The girl has already entered the master’s program at Huzhou University. “After graduating, I would like to find a job in China and continue my life here,” the Russian summed up. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Chinese surgeons operate on 120 Mongolian patients with cataracts in four days

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, June 26 (Xinhua) — Chinese doctors successfully operated on 120 Mongolian patients with cataracts in Ereenhot City, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, from June 20 to 24, the city’s official website reported.

    The operations were carried out in accordance with the bilateral cooperation protocol on the joint construction of the “Belt and Road” concluded between the Red Cross societies of the Chinese Autonomous Region.

    In order to provide medical care to patients from Mongolia, the Red Cross Society of the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region conducted a screening in Ulaanbaatar in May. Thanks to the close cooperation between the Ereenhot city administration and the Mongolian side, Mongolian patients with eye diseases safely crossed the border and were successfully operated. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Two people killed in explosion in residential building in Sverdlovsk region — media

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    Moscow, June 26 (Xinhua) — Two people were killed in an explosion, presumably of a gas cylinder, in a residential building in the Russian city of Ivdel in the Sverdlovsk region, TASS reported on Thursday, citing the regional Emergencies Ministry.

    On Thursday night, a gas explosion with subsequent fire occurred in a five-story building. Two people who lived in the apartment where the emergency occurred died. Five people were injured. Firefighters rescued 10 people, 19 evacuated on their own, including seven children. At 03:40 local time, the open fire was extinguished. The area of the fire was 80 square meters.

    The Investigative Committee of the Russian Federation for the region reported that a criminal case had been opened on the fact of the incident. The head of the municipality declared a state of emergency. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: D. Trump Calls on Congress to ‘Do Away’ Voice of America Radio Station

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    WASHINGTON, June 26 (Xinhua) — U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday called on Congress to “end” the Voice of America radio station, marking his administration’s second attempt since returning to the White House.

    “Why would Republicans want the Voice of America, the Democrats’ mouthpiece, to continue to exist?” the US president wrote on the social network Truth Social. “It is a complete disaster for the left. No Republican should vote for its survival. End it!”

    Calling for the VOA shutdown back in February, Elon Musk, then head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), wrote on social media site X: “These are just left-wing crazy people talking to themselves while burning $1 billion a year in US taxpayer money.”

    The Trump administration issued a statement in March calling the station “the voice of radical America,” accusing it of spreading “radical propaganda” and promoting “anti-American” stories. The statement cited “anti-Trump content on social media” and instructed the station’s staff “not to refer to Hamas or its members as terrorists, except when quoting statements.”

    About 1,400 Voice of America employees have reportedly been laid off since March. On Friday, the latest round of layoffs occurred, with more than 600 employees receiving layoff notices, bringing the workforce down to fewer than 200.

    Echoing Trump’s close ally and senior adviser to the Agency for Global Media, Kari Lake, also called on Congress on Wednesday to shut down the station.

    At a congressional hearing, Lake called the Voice of America “outrageous,” “deeply corrupt,” “politically biased,” and “a grave threat to our national security.”

    The Voice of America, founded in 1942 to combat Nazi propaganda, has long been seen as an important vehicle for delivering “voices from America.” –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Norway: Staff Concluding Statement for the 2025 Article IV Consultation Mission

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    June 26, 2025

    A Concluding Statement describes the preliminary findings of IMF staff at the end of an official staff visit (or ‘mission’), in most cases to a member country. Missions are undertaken as part of regular (usually annual) consultations under Article IV of the IMF’s Articles of Agreement, in the context of a request to use IMF resources (borrow from the IMF), as part of discussions of staff monitored programs, or as part of other staff monitoring of economic developments.

    The authorities have consented to the publication of this statement. The views expressed in this statement are those of the IMF staff and do not necessarily represent the views of the IMF’s Executive Board. Based on the preliminary findings of this mission, staff will prepare a report that, subject to management approval, will be presented to the IMF Executive Board for discussion and decision.

    Norway’s economy has shown resilience amid global uncertainty, supported by strong fiscal buffers and credible policy frameworks. Mainland real GDP growth is forecast to increase to 1.5 percent in 2025 (from 0.6 percent in 2024) and is projected to remain steady at around that level over the medium term. The labor market has held firm. Despite contractionary monetary policy, inflation remains above target; bringing inflation back to target is the most pressing near-term policy priority. The financial system is sound, and buffers are robust, but systemic vulnerabilities remain elevated, reflecting high levels of household debt and concentrated exposures to real estate. At the same time, macroprudential policy settings have been eased with the increase in the loan-to-value limit for mortgages earlier this year. Risks to the growth outlook are to the downside, driven by rising global policy and trade uncertainty; risks to the inflation outlook are balanced. The IMF staff’s main policy recommendations are: i) maintain the restrictive monetary policy stance until there is additional evidence that the recent easing of inflation has fully solidified; ii) do not ease macroprudential policy settings further, as financial stability risks could increase if downside risks to growth or upside risks to inflation materialize; iii) move towards a broadly neutral fiscal stance to enhance the coherence of the macroeconomic policy mix and lower the burden on monetary policy; and iv) continue advancing structural reforms aimed at increasing labor supply and inclusion.

    Context

    Norway’s economy has remained resilient despite tight financial conditions and ongoing global uncertainty. GDP continued to expand moderately last year, supported by high employment and supportive fiscal policy. Inflation has declined, though it remains above target, and financial stability risks, while elevated due to high household debt levels and concentrated exposures to the real estate sector, remain contained.

    Recent developments, outlook, and risks

    Economic activity strengthened in 2024. Overall real GDP grew by 2.1 percent, driven by record-high natural gas extraction. Mainland GDP expanded by 0.6 percent, primarily due to increased public spending, as activity in the construction and fishing sectors contracted, reflecting high borrowing costs and sector-specific challenges. Employment and hours worked increased, although the unemployment rate edged up to 4 percent. National accounts data and high frequency survey indicators point to resilient activity in the first part of 2025. Mainland GDP growth is forecast to rise to 1.5 percent in 2025, supported by easing financial conditions, an expansionary fiscal stance, and recovering real incomes. Over the medium-term, mainland GDP growth is expected to remain around its potential (1.5 percent).

    Inflation, despite a steady decline, remains above target. Services inflation and wage pressures have contributed to keeping inflation above the 2 percent target. However, recent developments point to slower-than-expected momentum in both headline and core inflation, partly due to one-off and base effects. Fiscal measures—such as those to stabilize electricity prices and reduce childcare costs—could lower inflation in the second half of the year. Under staff’s baseline scenario, headline and core inflation will fall to 2.2 and 2.6 percent by end-2025 and return to target by 2027. After holding the policy rate steady at 4.5 percent from January 2024, Norges Bank began normalizing monetary policy by lowering the rate to 4.25 percent in June and signaled that the policy rate will be reduced further in the course of 2025.

    The fiscal stance has become increasingly expansionary. While additional support to Ukraine in the revised budget is not expected to provide stimulus to the economy, overall, the 2025 budget implies a significant fiscal impulse. The structural non-oil deficit is projected to reach about 13 percent of trend mainland GDP, even as withdrawals from the Government Pension Fund Global (GPFG) are expected to remain below the fiscal rule’s 3 percent guideline (at around 2.7 percent of the GPFG’s 2024 market value). The government has also signaled alignment with NATO discussions to progressively increase defense spending toward 5 percent of GDP over the medium term.

    Risks to the growth outlook are tilted to the downside, while inflation risks are balanced. On growth, global tensions, including higher trade tariffs, could weigh on exports and investment, and continued tight financial conditions could further pressure highly indebted households and firms at a time when financial risks are elevated. Over the longer term, demographic headwinds and the expected structural erosion of oil-related revenues will weigh on economic resilience. Inflation could take longer to converge to target if domestic demand recovers faster than expected or higher oil prices put pressure on headline inflation. By contrast, further currency appreciation and higher productivity gains (e.g., from a faster-than-anticipated uptake of AI or automation) could bring inflation back to target more rapidly.   

    Policy recommendations

    Norges Bank should proceed cautiously with monetary policy normalization, ensuring there is further evidence that underlying inflation is firmly on a path back to target. Under staff’s baseline scenario, the current restrictive monetary policy is broadly appropriate to bring core inflation to target by 2027, even as medium-term inflation expectations and underlying inflation remain above target. The output gap is broadly closed, and inflation risks are balanced. While recent inflation developments are encouraging, further evidence of a decline in the trend of underlying inflation is needed to continue with the normalization of monetary policy.

    Norway’s strong monetary policy framework has served the economy well. After the adoption of inflation targeting in 2001, Norges Bank has operated with a high level of credibility and ranks among the most transparent central banks in the world. However, the current highly uncertain global outlook can present challenges for monetary policy formulation and implementation. Navigating rapidly evolving global developments and volatile data may require enhancements to the policy process. This could include expanding the use of scenario analysis—an approach Norges Bank has employed in the past—and refining communication strategies to maintain well-anchored expectations.

    The recent relaxation of the loan-to-value (LTV) limit for mortgages could increase financial vulnerabilities. Although households’ debt burden has stabilized, it remains high. A higher LTV limit may fuel further increases in house prices and household indebtedness, contributing to higher financial stability risks, particularly if downside risks to growth or upside risks to inflation materialize. Lasting improvements in housing affordability will require structural measures to address factors that keep prices elevated, including a relatively small rental market, limited land availability in urban areas, high construction costs, and a tax system that encourages mortgage debt. Gradually phasing-out mortgage interest deductibility (starting with a cap on income-tax deductions) would help curb speculative housing demand and enhance tax efficiency. Tightening eligibility for subsidized mortgages would also help manage housing demand and public spending.

    The financial system is sound with strong buffers, but further macroprudential easing should wait until systemic risks recede or financial disintermediation risks emerge. Continued close financial system monitoring is essential. Participation in the initiative to undertake a Nordic-Baltic regional stress test exercise would enhance the assessment of cross-border financial interlinkages and risks. Measures to address increased bank reliance on covered bonds are also welcome and would help mitigate interconnectedness risks. The current countercyclical capital buffer setting remains appropriate, but Norges Bank should be prepared to raise it if cyclical vulnerabilities increase. Priority should be given to preserving capital buffers, including by ensuring that banks’ models properly reflect credit risks and to strengthening contingency planning amid continued pressure on the commercial real estate (CRE) sector. Over the medium term, broadening the toolkit for CRE vulnerabilities could help address these in a more targeted manner during future upswings, and borrower-based-measures on CRE lending, as well as sector-specific capital surcharges to address risks from the insurance sector’s CRE exposures could be considered. Work to address the findings of the 2024 Nordic-Baltic crisis management exercise and the 2020 FSAP recommendations should continue.

    Moving towards a broadly neutral fiscal policy stance would support the disinflation effort and improve the coherence of the overall macroeconomic policy mix. The 2025 budget further expands the fiscal stimulus, with an estimated fiscal impulse of about 2.5 percent of trend mainland GDP. While the impact on domestic activity may be dampened by the composition of spending (including through imports and transfers abroad), the stimulus is still expected to provide a significant boost to the domestic economy.

    Enhancements to Norway’s robust fiscal framework would help ensure continued delivery of strong economic and social outcomes. Reinforcing countercyclicality and spending discipline would enhance fiscal resilience. Complementing the fiscal rule with explicit medium-term expenditure limits could reduce exposure to volatility from market-driven changes in the large and growing value of the GPFG and improve fiscal planning. Strengthening multi-year budgeting, improving public investment management, conducting more systematic spending reviews and setting efficiency targets would support more strategic resource allocation and enhance public service delivery. Benchmarking the setup of the Advisory Panel on Fiscal Policy Analysis against best international practices for independent fiscal councils and expanding its mandate would help further enhance the fiscal framework.

    Advancing fiscal reforms is essential to bolster resilience and support long-term growth. Tax reforms aimed at improving efficiency and broadening the revenue base remain a priority. Consolidating multiple VAT rates and enhancing incentives for work and investment would improve resilience of the tax system. Further measures to reform disability and sickness benefits, along the lines of past IMF recommendations, are needed to reduce work disincentives, increase labor force participation, and contain long-term fiscal costs. Sustained reform efforts are crucial to ensure long-term sustainability of fiscal policy in the face of rising structural spending pressures.

    A broad and ambitious reform agenda is essential to accelerate productivity growth and mitigate the effects of geoeconomic fragmentation. Advancing the “reinforced work line” agenda would reduce reliance on disability benefits, raise labor force participation among underrepresented groups—including youth and immigrants—and increase total hours worked. Strengthening education-to-work transitions, promoting full-time employment, and accelerating digitalization would further support productivity. Finally, further measures are likely to be needed to achieve Norway’s 2035 emission reduction targets.

    The IMF team thanks the Norwegian authorities and other counterparts for their hospitality and the constructive and insightful discussions.

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Eva-Maria Graf

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/06/25/norway-staff-concluding-statement-for-the-2025-article-iv-consultation-mission

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Jun 26, 2025 0730 UTC Day 3 Severe Thunderstorm Outlook

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

     For best viewing experience, please enable browser JavaScript support.

    Jun 26, 2025 0730 UTC Day 3 Severe Thunderstorm Outlook

    Updated: Thu Jun 26 07:16:35 UTC 2025 (Print Version |   |  )

    Probabilistic to Categorical Outlook Conversion Table

     Forecast Discussion

    SPC AC 260716

    Day 3 Convective Outlook
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    0216 AM CDT Thu Jun 26 2025

    Valid 281200Z – 291200Z

    …THERE IS A SLIGHT RISK OF SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS FROM CENTRAL
    NEBRASKA AND EASTERN SOUTH DAKOTA INTO MINNESOTA AND WESTERN
    WISCONSIN…

    …SUMMARY…
    Scattered severe storms with wind and hail potential will be
    possible over parts of the northern Plains to upper Mississippi
    Valley Saturday afternoon and evening.

    …Synopsis and Discussion…
    Shortwave ridging will occur over the upper MS Valley during the day
    on Saturday, before height falls arrive in association with a
    low-amplitude upper trough moving across MT and the Dakotas. This
    will allow a large area of moisture and instability to build, with
    MUCAPE over 4000 J/kg forecast from the eastern Dakotas into MN and
    IA.

    A surface trough is forecast to deepen from the eastern Dakotas into
    central NE, as southerly winds maintain a northward flux of theta-e
    with a deepening moist boundary layer. The end result should be
    storms developing within this trough, which will then spread east
    and persist through evening.

    While shear will not be particularly strong, steep midlevel lapse
    rates combined with veering winds with height will favor initial
    robust cells capable of large hail and perhaps a brief tornado risk,
    before storms form into propagating clusters with damaging winds
    likely. The surging theta-e out of the southwest during the evening
    may allow severe storms to persist into western WI late.

    Elsewhere, widespread moisture and instability will remain over the
    Southeast and Mid Atlantic, with scattered clusters of afternoon
    storms likely. Pockets of stronger instability may support localized
    strong to damaging gusts. Predictability is currently too low to
    denote precisely which areas may see a low-end severe gust threat.

    ..Jewell.. 06/26/2025

    CLICK TO GET WUUS03 PTSDY3 PRODUCT

    NOTE: THE NEXT DAY 3 OUTLOOK IS SCHEDULED BY 1930Z

    Top/Latest Day 1 Outlook/Today’s Outlooks/Forecast Products/Home

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Jun 26, 2025 0600 UTC Day 2 Convective Outlook

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    SPC AC 260530

    Day 2 Convective Outlook
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    1230 AM CDT Thu Jun 26 2025

    Valid 271200Z – 281200Z

    …THERE IS A SLIGHT RISK OF SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS OVER THE NORTHERN
    PLAINS…

    …SUMMARY…
    Severe storms producing large hail and locally damaging winds are
    forecast over parts of the northern Plains Friday afternoon and
    evening. Sporadic damaging gusts may also occur over parts of the
    Mid Atlantic and Southeast.

    …Synopsis…
    A low amplitude trough will move across the northern Rockies and
    into the northern Plains on Friday, with 40+ kt 500 mb winds into
    the Dakotas. As this occurs, a surface trough will develop over the
    western Dakotas, providing a focus for thunderstorms during the day.
    To the east, a weaker wave will move from lower MI into the lower
    Great Lakes, with a surface low enhancing convergence/lift. The air
    mass will remain moist and unstable over much of the central and
    eastern CONUS, supporting scattered storms over much of the area.
    The strongest instability is expected over the northern Plains in
    advance of the upper system. Otherwise, a weak upper low will remain
    over GA/FL providing cool midlevel temperatures and aiding daytime
    storm development.

    …Northern Plains…
    Strong heating will lead to an uncapped air mass within the surface
    trough, with scattered areas of storms developing from northeast CO
    into western NE and from the western into the central Dakotas.
    Supercells are most likely across the Dakotas beneath the stronger
    flow aloft, with the strongest cells producing very large hail and
    perhaps a brief tornado. Farther south across NE, CO and KS, deep
    mixed layers should favor strong outflow and localized wind damage.
    Storms may increase again during the evening over eastern ND and
    northern MN with increasing southwest flow at 850 mb late.

    …Southeast and Mid Atlantic…
    A weak surface trough will develop from VA across the Carolinas and
    into GA with strong heating. A moist and unstable air mass will
    again favor areas of thunderstorms beneath the upper ridge. Lapse
    rates aloft and therefore total instability will not be as strong as
    previous days, but widely scattered strong to damaging gusts may
    still occur during the afternoon across the entire region.

    ..Jewell.. 06/26/2025

    CLICK TO GET WUUS02 PTSDY2 PRODUCT

    NOTE: THE NEXT DAY 2 OUTLOOK IS SCHEDULED BY 1730Z

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Jun 26, 2025 0600 UTC Day 1 Convective Outlook

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    SPC AC 260631

    Day 1 Convective Outlook RESENT 1
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    0131 AM CDT Thu Jun 26 2025

    Valid 261200Z – 271200Z

    …THERE IS A SLIGHT RISK OF SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS THIS AFTERNOON
    ACROSS NORTHERN IOWA AND SOUTHERN WISCONSIN…

    …SUMMARY…
    A few tornadoes and isolated wind damage will be possible this
    afternoon from northern Iowa into southwest Wisconsin. Isolated
    wind damage will be possible across a broad area of the eastern
    Plains, Ohio Valley, Mid-Atlantic, the Southeast and Montana.

    …Northern IA/southwest WI area this afternoon…
    A weak midlevel trough over NE, enhanced by overnight convection,
    will progress east-northeastward over IA during the afternoon, along
    with an associated/weak wave along a surface baroclinic zone.
    Modest enhancement to vertical shear along the baroclinic zone, and
    MLCAPE near or above 2500 J/kg will support the potential for a band
    of storms along and ahead of the front this afternoon. The
    initial/more discrete storms could be supercells with the potential
    to produce a few tornadoes, in addition to isolated wind damage and
    marginally severe hail. Convection will likely grow upscale into a
    line by late afternoon, and the severe threat will begin to diminish
    by late evening.

    …Southeast today…
    Around the southeast periphery of a weakening midlevel high over KY,
    a midlevel low will drift slowly west-northwestward over FL and
    weaken gradually through tonight. Widespread convection is still
    ongoing from late Wednesday evening across AL/GA, with relatively
    widespread convective overturning and associated outflow. Remnant
    outflows and differential heating zones will play a role in
    additional thunderstorm development later this afternoon, though
    regional reductions in surface temperatures/moisture from yesterday
    will make the environment less favorable for widespread damaging
    downbursts compared to Wednesday. Given the mesoscale complexity of
    the pattern and reductions in lapse rates/buoyancy, will hold off on
    adding any SLGT risk/15% wind areas in this outlook. However, some
    part of GA/AL/MS may need to be reconsidered in later updates.

    …OH Valley into the Mid-Atlantic this afternoon…
    Scattered thunderstorms are expected again this afternoon in
    association with daytime heating, residual boundaries from prior
    convection, and terrain circulations. Though vertical shear will be
    weak, steepening low-level lapse rates and precipitation loading
    could support isolated wind damage with downbursts from mid
    afternoon into the evening.

    …Western OK to northeast KS this afternoon/evening…
    Scattered thunderstorm development is expected this afternoon along
    and ahead of weak front across KS, and farther to the south into the
    strongly heated airmass and east edge of the midlevel moisture plume
    now across west TX. Vertical shear will be weak through this
    corridor, but thermodynamic profiles will favor strong downdrafts
    and the potential for isolated strong-severe outflow gusts for a few
    hours this afternoon/evening.

    …MT this afternoon/evening…
    A subtle midlevel trough and associated/diffuse front will move
    across the northern Rockies this afternoon into tonight. Deep
    mixing and inverted-V profiles will favor some potential for
    strong-severe outflow gusts with scattered high-based thunderstorms
    along and ahead of the diffuse front this afternoon into this
    evening.

    ..Thompson/Moore.. 06/26/2025

    CLICK TO GET WUUS01 PTSDY1 PRODUCT

    NOTE: THE NEXT DAY 1 OUTLOOK IS SCHEDULED BY 1300Z

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC – No MDs are in effect as of Thu Jun 26 08:02:01 UTC 2025

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Current Mesoscale DiscussionsUpdated:  Thu Jun 26 08:05:03 UTC 2025 No Mesoscale Discussions are currently in effect.

    Notice:  The responsibility for Heavy Rain Mesoscale Discussions has been transferred to the Weather Prediction Center (WPC) on April 9, 2013. Click here for the Service Change Notice.
    Archived Convective ProductsTo view convective products for a previous day, type in the date you wish to retrieve (e.g. 20040529 for May 29, 2004). Data available since January 1, 2004.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC – No watches are valid as of Thu Jun 26 08:02:01 UTC 2025

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Current Convective Watches (View What is a Watch? clip)Updated:  Thu Jun 26 08:05:06 UTC 2025 No watches are currently valid

    Archived Convective ProductsTo view convective products for a previous day, type in the date you wish to retrieve (e.g. 20040529 for May 29, 2004). Data available since January 1, 2004.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: If you take a GLP-1 medicine and have been hospitalised by acute pancreatitis, the Yellow Card Biobank wants to hear from you 

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    If you take a GLP-1 medicine and have been hospitalised by acute pancreatitis, the Yellow Card Biobank wants to hear from you 

    GLP-1 medicines are licensed for Type 2 diabetes and weight management, and include the branded products Ozempic, Mounjaro and Wegovy 

    The pioneering Yellow Card Biobank, launched by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and Genomics England, will start investigating whether the risk of acute pancreatitis (inflamed pancreas) from GLP-1 injections for weight loss and Type 2 diabetes may be influenced by an individual’s genes.   

    Patients who have been hospitalised with acute pancreatitis suspected to be related to glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 medicines), such as Ozempic and Mounjaro, are being asked to report it to the MHRA’s Yellow Card scheme. These medicines are sometimes referred to colloquially as “skinny jabs” although they are licensed for both weight loss and Type 2 diabetes.   

    Healthcare professionals are also being asked to help recruit for the study by reporting Yellow Cards on behalf of patients experiencing acute pancreatitis while taking GLP-1 medicines.    

    When a Yellow Card report is received, the MHRA will contact patients to ask if they would be willing to take part in the Biobank study. This would involve providing further information and submitting a saliva or spit sample which will be used to explore whether some people are at a higher risk of acute pancreatitis when taking these medicines due to their genetic makeup, with the overall aim of reducing the occurrence of these side effects in the future.  

    Dr Alison Cave, MHRA Chief Safety Officer said: 

    Evidence shows that almost a third of side effects to medicines could be prevented with the introduction of genetic testing. It is predicted that adverse drug reactions cost the NHS more than £2.2 billion a year in hospital stays alone.    

    Information from the Yellow Card Biobank will help us to better predict those most at risk of adverse reactions – enabling patients across the UK to receive the safest medicine for them, based on their genetic makeup.  

    To help us help you, we’re asking anyone who has been hospitalised with acute pancreatitis while taking a GLP-1 medicine to report this to us via our Yellow Card scheme.   

    Even if you don’t meet the criteria for this phase of the biobank study, information about your reaction to a medication is always extremely valuable in helping to improve patient safety.

    Professor Matt Brown, Chief Scientific Officer of Genomics England, said:     

    GLP-1 medicines like Ozempic and Wegovy have been making headlines, but like all medicines there can be a risk of serious side effects. We believe there is real potential to minimise these with many adverse reactions having a genetic cause.   

    This next step in our partnership with the MHRA will generate data and evidence for safer and more effective treatment through more personalised approaches to prescription, supporting a shift towards an increasingly prevention-focused healthcare system.

    Although infrequent, acute pancreatitis has been reported with GLP-1 medicines. This can be serious. The main symptom of this is severe pain in the stomach that radiates to the back and does not go away. Anyone who experiences this should seek immediate medical help.  

    The Yellow Card Biobank aims to help understand how a patient’s genetic makeup can impact the safety of their medicines and forms part of a long-term vision for more personalised medicine approaches. Approved scientists will use the genetic information in the Yellow Card Biobank to investigate whether a side effect from a medicine was caused by a specific genetic trait. Ultimately this will enable healthcare professionals to personalise prescriptions using rapid screening tests, so patients across the UK will receive the safest medication for them, based on their genetic makeup.  

    Side effects continue to be a significant burden on the NHS and studies have shown they account for one in six hospital admissions. Screening tests provide the opportunity to reduce the likelihood of these adverse drug reactions from happening.  

    The MHRA will request a saliva sample from everyone who takes part in the Yellow Card Biobank study. Saliva testing kits will be posted to participants at their home. It is quick and easy to provide a sample. Instructions will be provided along with a prepaid postage envelope.   

    Notes to Editors  

    • Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 or GLP-1 RAs) are medicines that help people feel fuller by mimicking a natural hormone released after eating. Some newer medicines, like Mounjaro, also act on a second hormone involved in appetite and blood sugar control. These have been referred to in the media as “weight loss injections” or “skinny jabs”, but not all are authorised for weight loss.    

    • The Yellow Card Biobank is looking to recruit patients across the UK aged 18 or over who were hospitalised after experiencing acute pancreatitis after taking a GLP-1 medicine. If you are unsure whether you are or were taking one of these medicines, check the label to see what the active ingredient is – it should say semaglutide, liraglutide, lixisenatide, dulaglutide, exenatide or trizepatide. Alternatively, speak to a healthcare professional.  

    • Healthcare professionals are asked to report Yellow Cards on behalf of patients who are taking GLP-1 medicines (including dual GLP-1 and GIP agonists) and experience acute pancreatitis. While completing the Yellow Card, select “Yes” when asked if you agree to be contacted about the Yellow Card Biobank. If the patient is eligible, the team will be in touch to ask for your help in contacting the patient. The Yellow Card Biobank also works directly with healthcare professionals to refer patients, please see the website for more information or to get in touch with the team.    

    • The MHRA has issued recent guidance on how to use these medicines safely.   

    • The first phase of the Biobank campaign was to recruit patients who experienced severe reactions to direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) and allopurinol.    

    • The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is responsible for regulating all medicines and medical devices in the UK by ensuring they work and are acceptably safe.  All our work is underpinned by robust and fact-based judgements to ensure that the benefits justify any risks.  

    • The MHRA is an executive agency of the Department of Health and Social Care.  

    • Genomics England is a company established and wholly owned by the Department for Health and Social Care. It is a global leader in enabling genomic medicine and research, focused on creating a world where everyone benefits from genomic healthcare. Building on the 100,000 Genomes Project, it supports the NHS’s world-first national whole genome sequencing service and runs the growing National Genomic Research Library alongside delivering numerous major genomics initiatives.  

    • This project forms part of the Government’s Life Sciences Vision.    

    • For media enquiries, please contact the newsdesk@mhra.gov.uk or call 020 3080 7651

    Updates to this page

    Published 26 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: York has the least pregnant smokers in Yorkshire

    Source: City of York

    York has the lowest rate of pregnant women smoking in Yorkshire and the Humber at the time of delivery, new figures have revealed.

    According to new data published by NHS England Statistics on Women’s Smoking Status at Time of Delivery: Data tables – NHS England Digital only 4.6 per cent (65 women) smoked in York, at the time of their delivery. This shows a significant drop, when compared to figures in 2020, which were 10.4 per cent (167 women).

    Many women have been supported to help quit for good through help from the Health Trainers.

    Cllr Lucy Steels- Walshaw, Executive Member for Health, Wellbeing and Adult Social Care at City of York Council, said “Stopping smoking during pregnancy is a positive step you can take for the health of you and your baby.

    “Stopping smoking can be challenging, but you do not have to face this alone. The council’s health trainers can offer support tailored to your needs and look at techniques and strategies to keep you motivated on your journey to becoming smoke free”.

    The Health Trainers offer an incentive scheme of £170 in shopping vouchers which are offered, if they continue to quit during their pregnancy and quit for good.

    Lucy Evans, from Acomb, gave birth at full term to a 7lb 14oz healthy baby girl, Violet, 12 weeks ago. She stopped smoking a week after her first health trainer appointment early in her pregnancy, and received free nicotine gum and patches as well as one-to-one support sessions.

    She has just received her final voucher this week, which she plans to spend on clothes for Violet and a treat for herself.

    She said: “I wanted to quit to make sure my baby was healthy and would definitely recommend this scheme, you get so much support and help and it makes you want to quit even more.

    “I feel a lot healthier, I’m not coughing as much and am breathing better, and I feel like I can handle stress a lot better as I’m not relying on smoking.”

    The service offers personalised, individual support and advice, and signing up is really simple.

    Visit York Health Trainers and complete the online referral form, call 01904 553377 or email cychealthtrainers@york.gov.uk

    Across the region, the Smoking at Time of Delivery (SATOD) data shows that 7.5 per cent (3,901) of pregnant women across Yorkshire and the Humber were recorded as smoking in 2024/25.

    This is 1.8 per cent lower than the previous year, when maternal smoking rates were 9.3 per cent across the region. This equates to 642 fewer women smoking compared to last year.

    This is the lowest rate of smoking during pregnancy recorded in Yorkshire and the Humber since data began to be collected. This also reflects improvement across England as a whole, where SATOD rates fell to 6.1 per cent from 7.4 per cent last year.

    Smoking during pregnancy significantly increases the risk of harm to both mother and baby. It increases the risk of stillbirth, miscarriage, and sudden infant death. Children born to parents who smoke are also more likely to experience respiratory illness, learning difficulties, and diabetes, and are more likely to grow up to be smokers when compared to children born into smoke-free households.

    As well as the health harms caused by smoking during pregnancy, it also adds to the cost of living and pushes families further into poverty. The average smoker spends £3,000 per year on tobacco, with younger women from the most deprived areas being the most likely to smoke and be exposed to second-hand smoke during pregnancy.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • India’s strategic partnership with G7 to boost world trade: Study

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    A strategic collaboration in areas including clean and renewable energy, climate finance, Digital Public Infrastructure, trade and supply chain resilience, as well as, healthcare and pharma will drive a mutually beneficial growth trajectory between India and the G7 advanced countries, according to a study released on Thursday.

    The study released by the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry also mentioned the importance of maritime and Indo-Pacific security as a strategic factor that further cements the relationship between India and the G7 countries.

    The report highlighted that India’s merchandise trade with G7 countries has surged by 61 per cent, rising from $154 billion in FY 2020–21 to $248 billion in FY 2024–25, maintaining a steady trade surplus. This reflects India’s growing export competitiveness as indicated by the commodity net export price index, bolstering its external sector resilience, the report pointed out.

    “India’s consistent real GDP growth makes the country a key growth driver for the world economy. The transformative reforms, including GST, Insolvency and Bankruptcy Act, Production Linked Incentive Scheme, growing digital infrastructure (Aadhaar, UPI) and ‘Make in India’ are strengthening India’s ascendancy in the World,” said Hemant Jain, president, PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

    With an average real GDP growth of more than 8 per cent from 2021 to 2024, India has consistently outpaced all G7 members. IMF’s 2025 projections indicate that India will maintain an average growth trajectory above 6 per cent through 2029, supported by robust domestic demand, sound macroeconomic fundamentals, and its demographic dividend.

    In terms of purchasing-power-parity (PPP) terms, India’s share in global GDP has surged from 7 per cent in 2020 to 8.3 per cent in 2024, and is anticipated to exceed 9 per cent by 2029, the report points out.

    A crucial underlying factor is the demographic divergence between India and the G7. India’s working-age population (15–64 years) is projected to increase in the coming years, with over 68 per cent of its population currently between 15-64 years. This demographic dividend supports labour supply expansion, boosts domestic consumption, and enhances the innovation ecosystem through a vibrant startup culture and rising tertiary education enrolment, the report states.

    Further, India’s share of the total population aged 65 and above constitutes less than 5 per cent (2025). Conversely, G7 nations are confronting demographic headwinds as their share is more than 10 per cent, highlighting rapidly ageing populations, shrinking labour pools, and rising old-age dependency ratios.

    By 2030, this share is expected to double or more than double for the G7 economies. This is likely to slow potential output, reduce consumer demand, and increase fiscal burdens related to pensions and healthcare, the report further states.

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his address at the G7 summit, underscored India’s leadership in clean energy transition, climate action, and digital innovation. Key global initiatives led by India – the International Solar Alliance, Mission LiFE, and the Global Biofuels Alliance – are shaping a greener, more inclusive world.

    In the technology and digital governance space, India highlighted its commitment to a human-centric and ethical approach to AI, showcasing initiatives like BHASHINI and Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) as global models, he said.

    The Prime Minister urged for global cooperation on AI governance, resilient tech supply chains, and curbing the misuse of emerging technologies.

    (With inputs from IANS)

  • India’s strategic partnership with G7 to boost world trade: Study

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    A strategic collaboration in areas including clean and renewable energy, climate finance, Digital Public Infrastructure, trade and supply chain resilience, as well as, healthcare and pharma will drive a mutually beneficial growth trajectory between India and the G7 advanced countries, according to a study released on Thursday.

    The study released by the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry also mentioned the importance of maritime and Indo-Pacific security as a strategic factor that further cements the relationship between India and the G7 countries.

    The report highlighted that India’s merchandise trade with G7 countries has surged by 61 per cent, rising from $154 billion in FY 2020–21 to $248 billion in FY 2024–25, maintaining a steady trade surplus. This reflects India’s growing export competitiveness as indicated by the commodity net export price index, bolstering its external sector resilience, the report pointed out.

    “India’s consistent real GDP growth makes the country a key growth driver for the world economy. The transformative reforms, including GST, Insolvency and Bankruptcy Act, Production Linked Incentive Scheme, growing digital infrastructure (Aadhaar, UPI) and ‘Make in India’ are strengthening India’s ascendancy in the World,” said Hemant Jain, president, PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

    With an average real GDP growth of more than 8 per cent from 2021 to 2024, India has consistently outpaced all G7 members. IMF’s 2025 projections indicate that India will maintain an average growth trajectory above 6 per cent through 2029, supported by robust domestic demand, sound macroeconomic fundamentals, and its demographic dividend.

    In terms of purchasing-power-parity (PPP) terms, India’s share in global GDP has surged from 7 per cent in 2020 to 8.3 per cent in 2024, and is anticipated to exceed 9 per cent by 2029, the report points out.

    A crucial underlying factor is the demographic divergence between India and the G7. India’s working-age population (15–64 years) is projected to increase in the coming years, with over 68 per cent of its population currently between 15-64 years. This demographic dividend supports labour supply expansion, boosts domestic consumption, and enhances the innovation ecosystem through a vibrant startup culture and rising tertiary education enrolment, the report states.

    Further, India’s share of the total population aged 65 and above constitutes less than 5 per cent (2025). Conversely, G7 nations are confronting demographic headwinds as their share is more than 10 per cent, highlighting rapidly ageing populations, shrinking labour pools, and rising old-age dependency ratios.

    By 2030, this share is expected to double or more than double for the G7 economies. This is likely to slow potential output, reduce consumer demand, and increase fiscal burdens related to pensions and healthcare, the report further states.

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his address at the G7 summit, underscored India’s leadership in clean energy transition, climate action, and digital innovation. Key global initiatives led by India – the International Solar Alliance, Mission LiFE, and the Global Biofuels Alliance – are shaping a greener, more inclusive world.

    In the technology and digital governance space, India highlighted its commitment to a human-centric and ethical approach to AI, showcasing initiatives like BHASHINI and Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) as global models, he said.

    The Prime Minister urged for global cooperation on AI governance, resilient tech supply chains, and curbing the misuse of emerging technologies.

    (With inputs from IANS)

  • MIL-OSI USA: CONGRESSMAN BISHOP OPPOSES FUNDING BILL THAT FALLS SHORT FOR VETERANS & MILITARY FAMILIES

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Sanford D Bishop Jr (GA-02)

    WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02), a senior member of the U.S. House Appropriations Committee voted against H.R.3944, the proposed Fiscal Year 2026 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs funding bill.

    “National defense is not just about weapons and strategy — it’s about people. And this bill, as currently written, does not prioritize the needs of our people. Instead, it is laced with ideological provisions drawn from Project 2025,” said Congressman Bishop. “Veterans overwhelmingly want to be treated in VA hospitals and clinics — facilities tailored to their unique needs and staffed by professionals who understand the physical, emotional, and psychological costs of service. Instead of fortifying these institutions, this bill undermines them.”

    “Equally troubling is the underfunding of military construction — particularly housing and childcare. These are not luxuries. They are necessities. A stable home, quality childcare — these are foundational to military readiness,” added Congressman Bishop. “When we fail to provide for the families of our service members, we degrade morale, retention, and focus. We cannot expect excellence from our armed forces if we do not support the very people who make that excellence possible.

    WATCH: Rep. Bishop Opposes FY26 MilConVA Funding Bill During Debate in U.S. House

    H.R. 3944, the Fiscal Year 2026 funding bill for Military Construction and Veterans Affairs:

    • Worsens the quality of life for servicemembers and their families and hurts military readiness by funding military construction $904 million below what is needed.
    • Enacts the Project 2025 goal to privatize medical care for veterans by transferring billions to private hospitals and clinics, which will only lead to higher costs, longer wait times, poor communication and coordination, and diminished quality of care.
    • Further limits reproductive healthcare, harming women veterans’ health.
    • Jeopardizes our defense capabilities, military installations, servicemembers, and their families by failing to include dedicated funding to strengthen military installations against climate change, rising sea levels, and natural disasters.
    • Does not fulfill the United States’ commitments to our allies by providing $188 million less than what is needed for NATO infrastructure.
    • Increases veteran suicide risk by undermining the ability to keep guns out of the hands of those prohibited under Federal law from purchasing or possessing firearms.
    • Includes partisan, “culture war” changes to existing law that hurt Americans and disenfranchise veterans rather than making VA a welcoming and inclusive place for all those who have sacrificed and served our country.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ODHS distribuye kits de emergencia y baterías portátiles a adultos mayores y personas con discapacidades elegibles

    Source: US State of Oregon

    os adultos mayores y las personas con discapacidades que califiquen pueden solicitar kits de emergencia y baterías gratuitas para mantenerse seguros durante desastres.

    Emergencias como incendios forestales, olas de calor e inundaciones pueden ocurrir en cualquier momento. Es importante estar preparado. Pero muchas personas no saben por dónde empezar, o no tienen el dinero para comprar suministros.
    Durante la pandemia del COVID-19, el Departamento de Servicios Humanos de Oregon (ODHS por sus siglas en inglés) vio que muchas personas necesitaban ayuda para prepararse. Esto fue especialmente cierto para adultos mayores, personas con discapacidades físicas, y personas con discapacidades intelectuales o del desarrollo (I/DD). Muchas de ellas dependen de electricidad para usar equipo médico o de seguridad esencial.

    Para ayudar, ODHS recibió apoyo de la Ley del Plan de Rescate Estadounidense (ARPA, por sus siglas en inglés). Dos programas de ODHS — la Oficina de Servicios para Adultos Mayores y Personas con Discapacidades (APD) y la Oficina de Servicios para Discapacidades del Desarrollo (ODDS) — usaron estos fondos para dar suministros de emergencia a las personas que más los necesitan.

    ¿Qué artículos están disponibles ahora?

    APD tiene disponibles aproximadamente 18,000 kits de emergencia y 1,200 estaciones de energía portátiles para adultos mayores y personas con discapacidades físicas que reciben servicios de cuidado en el hogar a través de Medicaid. Estos servicios los proporciona APD y algunos gobiernos del condado.

    Los artículos disponibles incluyen:

    • Kits de emergencia: Contienen linternas, cobijas, artículos de primeros auxilios, comida y otros suministros útiles.
    • Estaciones de energía: Son baterías portátiles recargables que pueden usarse cuando no hay electricidad.

    Si usted cree que califica y quiere recibir estos artículos, comuníquese con su administrador(a) de casos. Si no sabe quién es, llame o visite la oficina local donde recibe servicios de APD.
    Puede encontrar la información de contacto de todas las oficinas estatales y del condado en el sitio web de ODHS visitando servicioshumanos.oregon.gov.

    ¿Qué se ha hecho hasta ahora?

    APD ya ha distribuido aproximadamente:

    • 2,000 kits de emergencia
    • 500 estaciones de energía

    ODDS, en colaboración con sus socios, ha entregado:

    • 20,137 kits de emergencia
    • 7,047 estaciones de energía
    • 1,276 generadores

    Algunos socios de ODDS organizaron eventos para distribuir estos artículos, además de ferias y entrenamientos sobre preparación para emergencias. También ayudaron a conectar a proveedores de servicios con equipos locales de respuesta ante emergencias.
    Estas acciones llegaron a 22,780 personas, 478 centros de servicios y 41 puntos de apoyo comunitario en todo Oregon.

    Estar preparado puede hacer una gran diferencia.

    En ODHS estamos orgullosos de apoyar la seguridad y el bienestar de las personas en Oregon.

    Sobre la foto

    El personal del Departamento de Servicios Humanos del Condado de Multnomah entregó suministros de emergencia durante eventos semanales en otoño e invierno. Puede ver un video corto sobre estos eventos.

    Foto cortesía del programa de Discapacidades Intelectuales y del Desarrollo del Condado de Multnomah.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: S. Korea’s court dismisses warrant to arrest ex-President Yoon

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

    South Korea’s ousted President Yoon Suk-yeol attends the second hearing of his criminal trial over insurrection charges in Seoul, South Korea, April 21, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    South Korea’s court on Wednesday dismissed a warrant to arrest former President Yoon Suk-yeol, sought a day earlier by a special counsel investigating Yoon’s short-lived martial law imposition, according to multiple media outlets.

    The independent counsel team of Cho Eun-suk leading the investigation into Yoon’s insurrection and other charges told reporters that the Seoul Central District Court rejected the warrant issuance as the Yoon side said he will appear for questioning if the special counsel demands it.

    The special prosecutor notified Yoon and his lawyer to appear for questioning at 9:00 a.m. local time on Saturday.

    Yoon rejected the third police call on June 19 to appear for questioning over his charges of ordering the presidential security service to block the attempt in January to arrest him and to delete information on security phones offered to three military commanders.

    Yoon was apprehended in presidential office on Jan. 15 and was indicted under detention on Jan. 26 as a suspected ringleader of insurrection, but he was released on March 8 as prosecutors decided not to appeal against the court’s release approval.

    The constitutional court upheld a motion to impeach Yoon on April 4 over his botched martial law bid last December, officially removing him from office. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s clean energy drive powers global sustainable development

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

    Despite the scorching heat, indoor spaces at the Summer Davos Forum venue in the northern Chinese city of Tianjin stay cool as green electricity keeps the air conditioning running smoothly.

    Two local renewable energy providers supply 800,000 kWh of green electricity — ensuring 100 percent renewable power for the entire event held at the National Convention and Exhibition Center (Tianjin). That’s equivalent to replacing approximately 300 tonnes of standard coal consumption and cutting carbon dioxide emissions by 600 tonnes, according to State Grid Corporation of China (State Grid).

    In addition, solar panels on the venue’s rooftop are also providing a steady supply of green electricity for the event.

    Themed “Entrepreneurship for a New Era,” the 16th Annual Meeting of the New Champions, also known as the Summer Davos, has been held from June 24 to 26 at the 1.38 million-square-meter National Convention and Exhibition Center (Tianjin). The event has attracted over 1,700 leading figures from more than 90 countries and regions.

    During the forum, clean energy — particularly its rapid development in China and global influence — has become a heated topic of discussion.

    “We have already seen great results in China for its application of new technologies, for example, solar energy. China has been leading very much in the field of renewables,” World Economic Forum President Borge Brende highlighted during the event.

    China has been taking concrete steps toward its commitment to peak carbon emissions before 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality before 2060. Over the years, the country has made remarkable progress in clean energy development, emerging as a global leader driving both domestic decarbonization and international sustainable development.

    In 2024, 86 percent of newly installed power capacity in China came from renewable energy sources, while the share of cumulative installed renewable capacity rose to a record high of 56 percent of the national total, official data showed.

    “China’s robust industrial foundation is accelerating the growth of green industries, including renewable equipment manufacturing, green transportation, eco-friendly infrastructure, and low-carbon construction. On the path toward global decarbonization, China has become an indispensable force,” said Yin Zheng, executive vice president of China and East Asia Operations at Schneider Electric, a global leader in energy management and industrial automation. The company has been a regular participant at Summer Davos.

    “By leveraging China’s industrial development momentum, Schneider Electric has been globalizing its green R&D achievements cultivated in China,” Yin said, adding that the company is collaborating with Chinese partners to develop energy infrastructure projects in Belt and Road Initiative participating countries, facilitating local energy transitions and economic growth.

    Schneider Electric plans to empower China’s green industrial upgrade with more innovative technologies and solutions, extending the benefits of sustainable productivity worldwide, he noted.

    JinkoSolar, a leading photovoltaic supplier, has expanded its clean energy products to many countries, including the United States, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Chile.

    “Sunlight knows no borders, and neither should clean energy. We are committed to globalizing our technological innovations to benefit communities worldwide,” said Qian Jing, global vice president of JinkoSolar Holding Co., Ltd. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: AI drives smart upgrade of China’s manufacturing industry

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

    Artificial intelligence has accelerated the transformation of traditional manufacturing in China, helping the country shift from a manufacturing giant to an innovation powerhouse, said industry leaders at the ongoing Summer Davos Forum in north China’s Tianjin Municipality.

    Li Dongsheng, co-chair of this year’s Davos and chairman of Chinese electronics giant TCL, said technologies, such as AI and robots will lead a new round of industrial transformation and transform economic growth models.

    TCL is investing heavily in key technologies, including edge intelligence, AI, and digital twins to strengthen digital manufacturing capabilities, according to the company.

    For instance, its China Star Optoelectronics Technology (CSOT) has applied an AI-based detection system in the production of liquid-crystal displays (LCDs) to monitor processes in real time. With smarter equipment operations, the company has enhanced product yield and increased efficiency by 70 percent.

    Another Chinese company Tianjin Huabei Group has also undergone a major digital shift. “Based on historical production data and AI algorithms, we have developed an intelligent mapping model that enables post-order product customization,” said Ling Yulan, CEO of the company. “The system can automatically match the optimal production parameters to meet personalized demands while improving delivery efficiency.”

    She emphasized that achieving intelligent manufacturing requires both technological upgrades and shifts in development mindset. “Through the forum, we hope to explore cutting-edge solutions, deepen industrial chain cooperation and promote the development of new quality productive forces of enterprises.”

    Similar transformations have also taken place in Chinese liquor producer Luzhou Laojiao. It has shifted from “experience-based decision-making” to “data-driven operations” through digital twin technologies.

    Liu Miao, chairman of the company said that the company has digitally replicated its facilities at a 1:1 scale and utilized digital twin simulations to streamline material flows before construction.

    “This system has increased equipment utilization by 45 percent, improved emergency response efficiency by 40 percent, and reduced operation and maintenance costs by 25 percent,” Liu said.

    China is now home to more than 30,000 basic-level smart factories, 1,200 advanced-level and over 230 excellence-level smart factories.

    The 230 excellence-level factories cover over 80 percent of manufacturing sectors. This achievement highlights the significant progress that has been made in reshaping the country’s manufacturing landscape.

    On average, they have shortened research and development cycles by 28.4 percent, boosted productivity by 22.3 percent, reduced defect rates by 50.2 percent, and cut carbon emissions by 20.4 percent.

    The rise of smart manufacturing is also reflected in economic data.

    Data from the National Bureau of Statistics shows that in May of this year, the value-added output of digital product manufacturing above designated size increased by 9.1 percent, while output of intelligent equipment and electronic components and equipment manufacturing industries rose by 17.5 percent and 11 percent respectively.

    Driven by large AI models, the output of servers has increased by 2.2 times, and the output of intelligent products such as 3D printing equipment, industrial robots, and service robots has increased by 40.0 percent, 35.5 percent, and 13.8 percent respectively.

    Themed “Entrepreneurship for a New Era,” this year’s Summer Davos has seen record attendance for recent years, with over 1,700 participants traveling from around the world.

    Cutting-edge AI products displayed at the forum such as humanoid robots, brain-computer interfaces and fully autonomous drone inspection systems are drawing large crowds of attendees. These innovations vividly showcase Chinese enterprises’ technological breakthroughs and pioneering applications of AI.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • Shubhanshu Shukla shares first in-flight experience on Axiom 4 mission

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) crew shared their first in-flight update from orbit early Wednesday, offering a glimpse into life aboard the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft as they journey to the International Space Station (ISS).

    Axiom Space said on X: “Tune in LIVE with the #Ax4 crew for their FIRST in-flight event at 01:47 AM EDT.”

    SpaceX also confirmed the update: “First opportunity to talk live with the Ax-4 crew on-orbit will be in roughly 15 minutes at ~1:47 a.m. ET this morning.”

    During the live session, Indian Air Force Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, serving as the mission pilot, described the launch as “magical” and reflected on the emotional build-up to liftoff.

    “I’m thrilled to be here with my fellow astronauts—what a ride it was. Honestly, as I sat in the capsule ‘Grace’ on the launchpad yesterday, after 30 days of quarantine, all I could think was: just go. When the launch finally happened, it was something else entirely. You’re pushed back into your seat—and then suddenly, there’s silence. You’re just floating in the vacuum. It’s absolutely magical,” he said.

    Group Captain Shukla expressed deep gratitude to the mission team, calling the experience a “collective achievement.”

    “I truly appreciate the efforts of every individual who made this journey possible. It’s not just a personal accomplishment—it belongs to all of us.”

    He also spoke about the swan mascot aboard the Dragon capsule: “This swan symbolises wisdom and grace. It may seem like a coincidence, but to me, it carries deeper meaning—serenity, strength, and purpose.”

    Recalling the moments before launch, he added: “We were in the capsule for nearly three hours, and while that wait can feel long, the moment of liftoff was unlike anything we imagined. We trained for months for those few minutes and seconds. I’m just grateful to finally live that moment.”

    Mission Specialist Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski spoke about the joy of the experience: “We had so much fun, so much joy. Every time I look at our mascot ‘Joy,’ I think about the future and how far we’ve come.”

    Fellow Mission Specialist Tibor Kapu highlighted the diversity of the Ax-4 team: “The four of us represent a significant portion of the planet—three continents and four countries, including India, the United States, and the European Union. Together, we stand for about 20–30% of the world’s population. When we look out the window, we see all of you. We’re proud to represent you in space.”

    Veteran astronaut Peggy Whitson added: “It’s been a fantastic experience so far. We have so many people cheering us on from Earth, and we’re excited for the mission ahead.”

    The SpaceX Dragon spacecraft launched from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center at noon IST on Wednesday, carrying Shukla, Whitson, Uznanski-Wisniewski, and Kapu. The capsule is scheduled to dock with the ISS’s Harmony module at 4:30 PM IST today.

    NASA Flight Engineers Anne McClain and Nichole Ayers are monitoring Dragon’s automated approach and docking manoeuvres. Upon arrival, the Ax-4 crew will be welcomed by the Expedition 73 team and will take part in a mandatory safety briefing.

    This mission holds special significance for Group Captain Shukla, who becomes the second Indian in space, following in the footsteps of Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma, who flew aboard the Soviet spacecraft Soyuz T-11 in 1984.

    From orbit, Shukla delivered a heartfelt message to the nation: “Namaskar, my dear countrymen, what a ride. We are back in space after 41 years. We are orbiting the Earth at a speed of 7.5 kilometres per second. The Tiranga on my shoulder reminds me that I am with all of you. This journey isn’t just about reaching the International Space Station—it’s about kickstarting India’s Human Space Programme. I invite all of you to be part of this mission. Let your hearts swell with pride. Jai Hind! Jai Bharat!”

    The Ax-4 crew will remain aboard the ISS for up to 14 days, conducting scientific experiments, participating in educational outreach, and engaging in commercial activities.

    This marks Axiom Space’s most research-intensive mission to date, with collaborative experiments between NASA and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) focusing on muscle regeneration, growth of edible microalgae, survival of aquatic microorganisms and human interaction with digital displays in microgravity

    Axiom’s first private astronaut mission, Ax-1, launched in April 2022 and lasted 17 days.

    (With inputs from ANI)

  • UP CM Yogi Adityanath congratulates Shubhanshu Shukla on Axiom Mission 4 launch

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Thursday congratulated Indian Air Force officer Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, who is serving as the pilot on board the Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) to the International Space Station (ISS).

    In a post on social media platform X, the chief minister called it a “proud moment for India” and credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership for enabling India’s participation in the international space mission.

    “Under the visionary leadership of PM Modi, India’s participation in this international space mission showcases our unwavering commitment to scientific advancement and global collaboration,” Yogi said.

    The SpaceX Dragon spacecraft carrying the Ax-4 crew — including Shukla — lifted off from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida on Wednesday afternoon (IST). The crew includes commander Peggy Whitson, a former NASA astronaut, along with mission specialists Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski of Poland and Tibor Kapu of Hungary.

    The spacecraft is expected to dock with the space-facing port of the ISS Harmony module at around 4:30 pm IST on Thursday. NASA flight engineers Anne McClain and Nichole Ayers will oversee the automated approach and docking process.

    Once aboard the ISS, the Ax-4 astronauts will be welcomed by the seven-member Expedition 73 crew and will undergo safety protocols before beginning their scientific, commercial, and outreach activities over the two-week mission.

    For Shukla, the mission marks a historic return of an Indian Air Force officer to space after more than four decades. The last IAF officer to travel to space was Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma, who flew aboard Soviet spacecraft Soyuz T-11 in April 1984.

    From aboard the Dragon capsule, Shukla addressed the nation in a recorded message. “We are back in space once again after 41 years,” he said. “The Tiranga embossed on my shoulders tells me I am with you all… This journey of mine is not just a beginning to the International Space Station but to India’s Human Space Programme.”

    “Your chest, too, should swell with pride,” he added, signing off with “Jai Hind, Jai Bharat.”

    IANS

  • MIL-OSI Europe: NATO Summit in The Hague concludes with joint decisions and a focus on the future

    Source: Government of the Netherlands

    News item | 26-06-2025 | 09:59

    The second and final day of the NATO Summit in The Hague focused on the new NATO standard: spending 3.5 percent of gross domestic product on defence, plus an additional 1.5 percent for supporting activities. Heads of state, government leaders, and the foreign and defence ministers of NATO member countries gathered at the World Forum to make decisions on this matter.

    Enlarge image
    North Atlantic Council | Photo: Ministry of Foreign Affairs

    North Atlantic Council: decisions for the alliance

    The main event on Wednesday 25 June was the meeting of the North Atlantic Council. NATO country leaders discussed the security situation in the world and made decisions about the future direction of the alliance. Topics included increased defence spending, support for Ukraine, strengthening collective defence, and cooperation on technology and innovation.

    In addition to the plenary meetings, various countries – including the Netherlands – held bilateral talks.

    Enlarge image
    Secretary General Mark Rutte | Photo: Ministry of Foreign Affairs

    Closing press conference and The Hague Summit Declaration

    At the end of the day, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte held a press conference where he discussed the Summit’s outcomes. Following this, the Netherlands and other NATO allies held press conferences, and the The Hague Summit Declaration was presented.

    NATO Public Forum: discussions on peace and security

    On this final day of the Summit, the NATO Public Forum was again broadcast live online. Heads of government, young people, experts and opinion leaders participated in panels and talks on current issues relating to peace and security. The sessions are available to watch at www.natopublicforum.org.

    With the conclusion of the Summit, the Netherlands can look back on two intensive days of talks and cooperation. It has been a week in which The Hague’s full focus has been on international security and the NATO alliance.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Portsmouth pupils celebrate the power of reading at spectacular book awards ceremony

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    Hundreds of Year 5 pupils from across the city gathered at the Kings Theatre on Wednesday 25 June to celebrate their love of reading at the annual Year 5 Book Awards, a flagship event organised by the School Library Service.

    With over 1,500 votes cast by pupils from 21 local schools, author Mitch Johnson was announced as the winner for his gripping novel Toxic. The event, part of the city-wide In Our Words programme led by Portsmouth Creates, highlighted the transformative power of books and storytelling in young lives.

    Each participating school nominated a Reading Champion—pupils who not only enjoy reading but actively inspire their peers. Diya from Ark Ayrton Primary Academy and Cooper from Penbridge School were honoured on stage by the Lord Mayor of Portsmouth, Councillor Gerald Vernon-Jackson, and the Lady Mayoress.

    The awards also recognised the vital role of adults in fostering a love of reading. This year’s Inspiring adult awards went to Mrs Churchill and Mrs Lammas from The Flying Bull Academy, as nominated by their pupils.

    The ceremony featured a dramatic performance by pupils from St Swithun’s Catholic Primary School and an original poem by students from Mayville High School, both inspired by Toxic. A digital gallery showcased artwork created by pupils in response to the shortlisted books, with five standout artists receiving special recognition.

    Councillor Steve Pitt, Leader of Portsmouth City Council, said:

    “Reading is one of the most powerful tools we can give our young people. It opens doors to imagination, learning, and opportunity. Events like the Portsmouth Book Awards not only celebrate the joy of reading but also highlight the incredible work happening in our schools to nurture creativity and confidence in every child.”

    This annual event is particularly special this year as we celebrate the 2025 In Our Words programme —a year-long celebration of Portsmouth’s literary heritage and creative future. Organised by Portsmouth Creates, the programme invites residents of all ages to engage with books, storytelling, and the arts through a diverse calendar of events.

    Gemma Nichols, CEO Portsmouth Creates said, “We’re proud to support this year’s Book Awards in Portsmouth, a celebration not only of outstanding literature but of the transformative power of reading. Through our overarching initiative In Our Words we aim to champion accessibility, inspire young voices and encourage a lifelong love of books. As a city we must collectively work together to help raise literacy levels and inspire the next generation of thinkers, storytellers, and future leaders.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: NDA launches pioneering robotics partnership to manage nuclear waste

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 2

    News story

    NDA launches pioneering robotics partnership to manage nuclear waste

    Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA) group announces pioneering partnership to deploy innovative technology to manage radioactive waste.

    Demo robotic arm to sort and segregate waste

    The Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA) group has today announced a pioneering partnership which will see innovative technology deployed for the first time on a nuclear site to remotely and autonomously sort and segregate radioactive waste.

    The NDA has committed to invest up to £9.5m in the project over four years, which is a collaboration with Nuclear Restoration Services (NRS), Sellafield and Nuclear Waste Services (NWS).

    The project, Auto-SAS, will be delivered jointly by AtkinsRéalis and Createc, working in partnership as ARCTEC to combine their joint experience and track record of developing automated systems and robotics in nuclear. They will take learning from the solutions they developed in an earlier innovation competition to develop a system which will be deployed on the NRS Oldbury, former nuclear site.

    Melanie Brownridge, NDA Chief R&D Officer, said:

    This is a hugely exciting project for us, using robotics to autonomously sort and categorise waste and has the potential to save hundreds of millions of pounds in waste storage and disposal costs.

    It’s a great example of collaboration across the NDA group and supply chain to develop transformative solutions to decommissioning challenges which enable us to deliver our mission safely and efficiently.

    Our ambition is to use what we learn here to benefit multiple sites in the NDA group and potentially beyond.

    Manual segregation of radioactive waste is complex and hazardous due to the nature of the material, so caution is exercised and where waste is mixed it’s currently all categorised as Intermediate Level Waste (ILW) or Plutonium Contaminated Material (PCM) rather than being sorted by type or radioactivity.

    Using robotics provides the ability to use technology to more accurately categorise the waste, avoiding using more costly waste routes when they aren’t required, while also removing people from hazardous environments and giving them the opportunity to develop new skills.

    Energy Minister, Michael Shanks, said:

    This cutting-edge partnership represents exactly the kind of innovation the UK needs to lead the world in safe, efficient nuclear decommissioning. It will put the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority at the forefront of using robotics to sort nuclear waste. Not only will this help protect and upskill workers, but by investing in technologies like this, we can ensure better value for taxpayers and potentially save hundreds of millions of pounds.

    Auto-SAS will be deployed on the NRS Oldbury site in South Gloucestershire initially and will be used to separate low level waste from intermediate level waste which has been retrieved from the vaults on site – created when the power station was operational.

    Andrew Forrest, NRS Chief Technical Officer, commented:

    This collaboration brings a game changing opportunity to accelerate our waste management and help deliver the decommissioning mission sooner, safely and cost effectively. I know the Oldbury team is excited to be part of the project and be a centre of innovation for the NDA group.

    The ARCTEC system will use a combination of sensors to categorise the waste before robotic manipulators grasp and consign waste items to the most appropriate waste route.

    Robert Marwood, Head of Robotics and Technology for AtkinsRéalis said on behalf of ARCTEC:

    This is an ambitious project with the potential to automate a time-consuming process and develop a scalable system that segregates hazardous materials safely and efficiently.

    AtkinsRéalis and Createc have a strong track record in developing and deploying advanced robotic systems in nuclear decommissioning. We are excited to be able to combine this expertise to collaborate and help the NDA achieve effective and optimised waste management for the UK’s legacy nuclear sites.

    The ambition is to transfer learning to support future deployments at other NDA group sites, for example Sellafield.

    Rav Chunilal, Head of Robotics and Artificial Intelligence at Sellafield Ltd, said:

    At Sellafield we’ve experienced first-hand how robotics and autonomous systems can revolutionise nuclear operations.

    Auto-SAS builds on that momentum, protecting our people and unlocking new levels of precision and efficiency in waste categorisation. And it has great potential to set a new standard for waste management across the NDA group.

    Gareth Garrs, Head of Waste Inventory and Compliance at Nuclear Waste Services, said:

    This is another strong example of collaboration across the NDA group, with NWS providing waste management advice and expertise to the nuclear industry around future waste disposals.

    With the increased deployment of these types of innovative technologies, NWS brings unique expertise in the management of radioactive waste which will ensure we deliver the significant benefits in terms of safety and efficiency.

    The project is being undertaken in two phases. Phase 1 runs from June 2025 to August 2027 and will deliver a fully operational system in an inactive environment. Phase 2 will deliver an active demonstration of the system at Oldbury.

    To find out more about this project and previous competitions on Autonomous sort and segregation of nuclear waste visit: Five UK companies have progressed through to the next phase of a £5.5 million radioactive waste segregation competition. – GOV.UK or watch: ISOSort – Sorting and Segregating Nuclear Waste.

    Updates to this page

    Published 26 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by SCED at US Independence Day reception (English only)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Following is the speech by the Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Algernon Yau, at the United States of America (US) Independence Day reception today (June 26):
     
    Consul General May (Consul General of the US in Hong Kong and Macau, Mr Gregory May), ladies and gentlemen,
     
    Good afternoon. I am pleased to join you all today. This is a special occasion to acknowledge the deeply rooted ties between Hong Kong and the US. In fact, this year marks the 182nd anniversary of the US’s diplomatic presence in Hong Kong. The longstanding ties that connect Hong Kong and the US, in the fields of economics, trade, culture, and many more, are very important.
     
    In the latest World Competitiveness Yearbook 2025 published by the International Institute for Management Development, Hong Kong’s global competitiveness rises by another two places to third globally. And in the 2025 Business Sentiment Survey conducted by the American Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong (AmCham), 75 per cent of respondents viewed Hong Kong as highly competitive or competitive as an international business hub. Hong Kong adds value to US enterprises and business people, their services and their future.
     
    In the area of trade, over the past decade alone, the US has enjoyed a trade surplus of US$271.5 billion with Hong Kong, one of the highest among the US’s trading partners. Also, in 2024, the number of US regional headquarters, regional offices and local branches in Hong Kong has increased from around 1 200 to 1 390. According to AmCham, the US’s trade in goods with Hong Kong supports about 140 000 jobs in the US, covering a wide range of sectors from agriculture to fashion and manufacturing. The US enjoys significant economic benefits in Hong Kong.
     
    The figures I just outlined speak for the fact that free trade unimpeded by protectionist measures, including the so-called reciprocal tariff, is the formula for growth and mutual benefits. As the freest economy in the world, we have all along supported and practised free trade. We strongly disapprove of the additional duty imposed by the US on products from Hong Kong, which is illogical given Hong Kong’s status as a free port. It harms the interests of both sides and is inconsistent with WTO (World Trade Organization) rules. We call for the early rectification of these unfair and unjustified trade-impeding measures.
     
    Notwithstanding the challenges brought by an uncertain global economic outlook and the impact of geopolitics, we remain firmly committed to the rules-based multilateral trading system and free trade. The continued implementation of free trade policies and zero-customs tariffs provides the much needed certainties for businesses in Hong Kong. We will continue to strengthen our international ties and open up more overseas markets.
     
    In 2024, Invest Hong Kong assisted 539 enterprises in establishing and expanding their businesses in Hong Kong, representing an increase of over 40 per cent as compared with the full year figure of 2023. Apart from the Mainland being the largest place of origin, the US ranked second. I would like to assure all of you that Hong Kong welcomes all sorts of overseas investments including those from the US, and we remain your trusted partner and the preferred platform for collaboration in international trade and businesses.
     
    Ladies and gentlemen, the shared interests between Hong Kong and the US have allowed us to develop a multifaceted and longstanding relationship over the past 182 years. Though there are differences, we may set our eyes on our shared interests based on the principles of mutual respect and fairness, which are instrumental in the mutual success of Hong Kong and the US. We hope our friends in the US will share this thought and join us to navigate the Hong Kong-US relationship into a better future.
     
    Thank you.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Medical products centre set

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Department of Health today announced that the Hong Kong Centre for Medical Products Regulation (CMPR) will be established by the end of 2026.

    Additionally, the department will implement “primary evaluation” for new drug registration in phases starting next year, with full implementation by 2030.

    At a press conference this morning, Director of Health Dr Ronald Lam said with the CMPR’s establishment, the Government will consolidate the regulatory functions for Western and Chinese medicines as well as medical devices, and enhance the existing regulatory regime in a holistic manner.

    “The vision of the CMPR is to become a ‘leading, internationally renowned medical products regulatory authority, driving excellence and innovation’, with the goal of gaining international recognition in the field.

    “The CMPR will promote innovation, and research and development of drugs and devices by optimising medical products regulation.

    “This will ensure that the public can benefit from the latest scientific research, and that patients will gain earlier access to innovative, safe and effective medical products. It also fosters growth in the local healthcare and biotechnology industries.”

    The department established the Preparatory Office for CMPR in June last year. Since then, preparatory work has been focusing on driving regulatory excellence, promoting medical product innovation, and deepening national and international collaboration.

    As for the implementation of “primary evaluation”, Dr Lam noted that the Government implemented the “1+” mechanism in November 2023, an important step towards the adoption of “primary evaluation”.

    Under the “1+” mechanism, new drugs that are supported by local clinical data and recognised by relevant experts can be applied for registration in Hong Kong, if the applicant provides approval from the drug regulatory authority of one of the reference places, instead of two in the past.

    Since its implementation, 11 new drugs have been approved for registration under this mechanism.

    The initial phases of “primary evaluation” will cover applications for the registration of products containing registered chemical entities and biological entities with extended applications, such as new indications, new strengths, new posology and new dosage forms.

    This will progressively establish a robust approval system, providing strong momentum for the development and market expansion of the healthcare industry in the city, the Mainland, and beyond, Dr Lam added.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –