NewzIntel.com

Category: Economy

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Foreign Secretary reiterates UK’s ongoing support to Lebanon

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    World news story

    Foreign Secretary reiterates UK’s ongoing support to Lebanon

    British Foreign Secretary David Lammy visited Lebanon and reiterated the UK’s ongoing support for Lebanon’s security, stability and future prosperity.

    British Foreign Secretary David Lammy with President Joseph Aoun

    As part of a regional visit, Foreign Secretary David Lammy visits Lebanon on Friday 4 July 2025. He reiterated the UK’s ongoing support for Lebanon’s security, stability and future prosperity. 

    The Foreign Secretary met with President General Joseph Aoun at the Presidential Palace. Discussions focused on the latest local and regional developments and UK-Lebanon bilateral relations.

    The Foreign Secretary spoke about the urgency of efforts to reach a lasting peace in Lebanon and the region. He stressed the importance of Lebanon and Israel implementing the ceasefire agreement in full, including the withdrawal of Israeli Forces and the deployment of the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) throughout the South.

    He commended the long-standing and strong bilateral partnership between Lebanon and the UK including with the LAF, both in the South and on the border with Syria. Since 2009, the UK has spent over £115 million to support the LAF with infrastructure, vehicles, training and equipment and since 2013 supported the establishment of the Land Border Regiments (LBRs) on the border with Syria.

    The Foreign Secretary also reiterated the UK’s support for UNIFIL and the role they play for stability in South Lebanon, as mandated in UNSCR 1701.  He called for urgent implementation of essential economic reforms and transparent processes for justice and accountability. 

    British Ambassador Hamish Cowell said:

    I was pleased to welcome British Foreign Secretary David Lammy to Lebanon, following unprecedented regional tensions. 

    Efforts must continue to secure a lasting ceasefire in Lebanon and allow the full deployment of the Lebanese Army to the south of the country, as the sole legitimate defender of Lebanon. 

    Stability in the Middle East is in everyone’s interest. The full implementation of UNSCR 1701 is crucial to Lebanon and the region’s future security.

    Lebanon’s path to recovery is dependent on essential reforms, including those required to secure an IMF agreement to rebuild the economy and unlock international investment.  

    The UK remains a steadfast partner to Lebanon and its people.

    The Foreign Secretary also visited Syria as part of his regional trip. This is the first by a UK Minister in 14 years and renews the UK-Syria diplomatic relationship. The Foreign Secretary met President Al-Sharaa and Foreign Minister Al-Shaibani to reiterate the importance of an inclusive and representative political transition in Syria and offer continued UK support to the Syrian people.

    Updates to this page

    Published 5 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Chinese company and RDIF intend to jointly build a new benchmark for cooperation between the two countries in Beijing

    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, July 5 /Xinhua/ — Chinese real estate developer China Railway Real Estate Group Co., Ltd. /CRREG/ and the Russian Direct Investment Fund /RDIF/ recently held talks to jointly build a new benchmark for cooperation between the two countries in Beijing, CRREG said.

    Li Dinghuan, General Manager of CRREG Beijing Branch, said that CRREG and RDIF are willing to give full play to their respective advantages and plan to build a “China-Russia Trade, Economic and Cultural Center /tentative name/” in the central business district of the Chinese capital to jointly create a new benchmark for China-Russia cooperation, provide a new platform for enterprises and chambers of commerce of both sides to expand economic cooperation and cultural exchanges.

    Vice President of the Russian Direct Investment Fund Anton Dan-Chin-Yu reported that trade and economic cooperation and cultural exchanges play an important role in bilateral relations between Russia and China. The Russian Direct Investment Fund is interested in cooperation with China in building a new Russian-Chinese trade, economic and cultural center in Beijing. By that time, the Russian Direct Investment Fund will attract Russian chambers of commerce and enterprises in the energy, finance, culture and education sectors to locate in the center.

    CRREG and RDIF also signed a memorandum on joint cooperation for the “Chinese-Russian Trade, Economic and Cultural Center /preliminary name/.” –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congestion Pricing Succeeding in Reducing Traffic

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) today announced that in its first six months, New York City’s congestion pricing program has succeeded in reducing traffic and raising revenues to fund transit improvements across the region, while economic activity in New York City has flourished. Activated at 12:00 am on January 5th, the nation’s first urban congestion pricing program reduces gridlock in Manhattan’s Congestion Relief Zone (CRZ) below 60th Street by charging motorists to enter the zone. Revenue from congestion pricing is on track to reach the forecasted $500 million in 2025, allowing the MTA to advance $15 billion in critical capital improvements to mass transit on its subway, bus, Long Island Rail Road, and Metro-North Railroad systems.

    “Six months in, it’s clear: congestion pricing has been a huge success, making life in New York better,” Governor Hochul said. “In New York, we dare to do big things, and this program represents just that – traffic is down throughout the region, business is booming, transit ridership is up, and we are making historic upgrades to our transit system. We’ve also fended off five months of unlawful attempts from the federal government to unwind this successful program and will keep fighting – and winning – in the courts. The cameras are staying on.”

    New York State and the MTA have successfully fought off repeated legal challenges to congestion pricing and have stood up to block the unlawful attempts of the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and the Trump Administration to terminate the program. In May, a preliminary injunction was issued in the case of Metropolitan Transportation Authority v. Duffy, keeping congestion pricing in effect pending further court proceedings and enjoining the federal government from taking retaliatory measures in response.

    MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber said, “Congestion relief is a massive success and validation of the initiative keeps pouring in. The program is achieving all of its goals in terms of traffic reduction, increased travel speeds, safety, noise reduction and more. And not only is Congestion Relief delivering all the projected benefits – and more – it’s also proving that New York State government can effectively execute major, ambitious initiatives that improve the quality of life in ways New Yorkers notice and appreciate.”

    MTA Construction & Development President Jamie Torres-Springer said, “In addition to all of the benefits New Yorkers are already feeling on our streets, Congestion Relief is delivering accessibility at 25 subway and railroad stations, modern subway signals for AC and BDFM riders, new subway and rail cars, and countless other essential projects for our public transit system. The new MTA is hard at work advancing these projects better, faster, and cheaper.”

    Since the congestion pricing program took effect on Jan. 5, it has delivered a wide array of benefits according to data from the MTA and other reports and studies from business groups and other data sources.

    Congestion pricing is reducing traffic and improving quality of life

    In just six months, congestion pricing has succeeded in reducing traffic, speeding up the flow of traffic, and reducing delays – not just in the Congestion Relief Zone but throughout the region. The number of vehicles entering the zone is down by 11% since congestion pricing started. Every day, 67,000 fewer vehicles enter the zone, and since the program started, more than 10 million fewer vehicles have entered the zone compared to last year.

    According to a report from the Regional Plan Association and Waze, traffic delays are down in the Congestion Relief Zone by 25% and across the metropolitan region by 9%. Delays are also down by 10% in the Bronx and 14% in parts of Bergen County, NJ. Time lost to traffic jams is down 12%, giving seven minutes for every hour spent in traffic in 2024 back to commuters’ lives. Travel times on river crossings have decreased by 6% to as much as 42% in 2025 compared to 2024. In the Holland Tunnel, rush hour delays are down by 65% since congestion pricing began. In the Lincoln Tunnel, MTA express buses are traveling almost 24% faster than in 2024. Roads and highways approaching the Congestion Relief Zone, including Flatbush Ave in Brooklyn and the Long Island Expressway, are also moving faster than last year.

    Reduced gridlock has improved quality of life in New York City. Crashes in the Congestion Relief Zone are down 14%. Traffic injuries are down by 15% in the zone, and the safety benefits are being felt citywide. Just this week, the New York City Department of Transportation released data showing that pedestrian fatalities on New York City streets are at historic lows, matching levels last seen in 2018.

    Additionally, air quality has improved and noise pollution has reduced since the program was launched. Honking and vehicle noise complaints to 311 are down by 45% in 2025. A new report from the City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene released on July 2 showed steady or decreasing levels of fine particle air pollution (or PM2.5) at most sites, both inside and outside the Congestion Relief Zone.

    Transit service and ridership are on the rise

    Transit ridership across all modes has increased from January-May 2025 when compared to the same period last year. All MTA modes of public transportation have had post-pandemic record high ridership in the first half of 2025.

    • Subway: +7%
    • Bus: +12%
    • LIRR: +8%
    • Metro-North: +6%
    • Access-A-Ride: +21%

    Transit service has steadily improved in 2025 to near record levels. In May, subway On-Time Performance was 85.2%, the best non-pandemic month in recorded history. Long Island Rail Road and Metro-North On-Time Performance have consistently been at or near 97% and 98% respectively in 2025. Buses are moving faster thanks to congestion pricing. Bus speeds have increased by an average of 3.2% within the CRZ, with some routes increasing by as much as 25%.

    Governor Hochul and the MTA have also made historic investments to improve bus service. Service was increased on eight key Express Bus routes in March and on 14 high-ridership local bus routes on June 29th. The MTA also launched the first phase of the Queens Bus Network Redesign on June 29th, bringing more frequent and direct service with better connections to 800,000 Queens bus riders. Phase 2 will launch on August 31.

    Economic activity in New York City is up

    Gridlock is bad for the economy. According to a report from the Partnership for New York City before congestion pricing was launched, businesses and individuals were wasting hundreds of hours sitting in traffic, costing the economy $20 billion per year. Congestion pricing is a locally developed solution to a generational challenge. 

    Already, the benefits of congestion pricing are improving New York City’s economy. Commuters are saving as much as 21 minutes each way. Time savings help businesses make deliveries and save costs. The annual value of these time savings could be as high as $1.3 billion. In May, business district pedestrian activity within the Congestion Relief Zone increased by 8.4% compared to May 2024. This growth is much faster than for business districts outside of the zone, which saw an increase of 2.7%.

    Business is booming in the Congestion Relief Zone in 2025. Broadway just posted its biggest season ever with $1.9 billion in ticket sales; retail sales are on track to be up $900 million in 2025 compared to 2024; Hotel occupancy was 87% in April 2025 compared to 85% in April 2024; Commercial office leasing in 2025 Q1 is up 11% compared to 2024 Q4 and up 80% since 2024 Q1. At the same time, New York City now has the most jobs in its history – nearing 4.86 million in April 2025. That represents 1.6% growth over April 2024, outpacing the national average of 1.1%.

    The MTA is investing in transit improvements funded by congestion pricing

    By enabling the MTA to issue $15 billion in bonds to fund projects in its 2020-2024 Capital Plan, congestion pricing is powering improvements across the MTA network. Improvement projects funded by congestion pricing include:

    • 435 additional R211 subway cars – including 80 additional open-gangway cars
    • 44 new, more reliable dual-mode locomotives for the Long Island Rail Road
    • 300 new M9A cars for Metro-North and the Long Island Rail-Road
    • Communications Based Train Control (CBTC) signal upgrades on the A and C lines between Downtown Brooklyn and Ozone Park, allowing for more frequent and reliable service
    • Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) upgrades at 23 subway stations, including new elevators, reconstructed platforms, and other improvements

    Additionally, funding from congestion pricing allows the MTA to move forward with the tunneling contract for Phase 2 of the Second Avenue Subway, which will be awarded in the second half of 2025.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congestion Pricing Succeeding in Reducing Traffic

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) today announced that in its first six months, New York City’s congestion pricing program has succeeded in reducing traffic and raising revenues to fund transit improvements across the region, while economic activity in New York City has flourished. Activated at 12:00 am on January 5th, the nation’s first urban congestion pricing program reduces gridlock in Manhattan’s Congestion Relief Zone (CRZ) below 60th Street by charging motorists to enter the zone. Revenue from congestion pricing is on track to reach the forecasted $500 million in 2025, allowing the MTA to advance $15 billion in critical capital improvements to mass transit on its subway, bus, Long Island Rail Road, and Metro-North Railroad systems.

    “Six months in, it’s clear: congestion pricing has been a huge success, making life in New York better,” Governor Hochul said. “In New York, we dare to do big things, and this program represents just that – traffic is down throughout the region, business is booming, transit ridership is up, and we are making historic upgrades to our transit system. We’ve also fended off five months of unlawful attempts from the federal government to unwind this successful program and will keep fighting – and winning – in the courts. The cameras are staying on.”

    New York State and the MTA have successfully fought off repeated legal challenges to congestion pricing and have stood up to block the unlawful attempts of the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and the Trump Administration to terminate the program. In May, a preliminary injunction was issued in the case of Metropolitan Transportation Authority v. Duffy, keeping congestion pricing in effect pending further court proceedings and enjoining the federal government from taking retaliatory measures in response.

    MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber said, “Congestion relief is a massive success and validation of the initiative keeps pouring in. The program is achieving all of its goals in terms of traffic reduction, increased travel speeds, safety, noise reduction and more. And not only is Congestion Relief delivering all the projected benefits – and more – it’s also proving that New York State government can effectively execute major, ambitious initiatives that improve the quality of life in ways New Yorkers notice and appreciate.”

    MTA Construction & Development President Jamie Torres-Springer said, “In addition to all of the benefits New Yorkers are already feeling on our streets, Congestion Relief is delivering accessibility at 25 subway and railroad stations, modern subway signals for AC and BDFM riders, new subway and rail cars, and countless other essential projects for our public transit system. The new MTA is hard at work advancing these projects better, faster, and cheaper.”

    Since the congestion pricing program took effect on Jan. 5, it has delivered a wide array of benefits according to data from the MTA and other reports and studies from business groups and other data sources.

    Congestion pricing is reducing traffic and improving quality of life

    In just six months, congestion pricing has succeeded in reducing traffic, speeding up the flow of traffic, and reducing delays – not just in the Congestion Relief Zone but throughout the region. The number of vehicles entering the zone is down by 11% since congestion pricing started. Every day, 67,000 fewer vehicles enter the zone, and since the program started, more than 10 million fewer vehicles have entered the zone compared to last year.

    According to a report from the Regional Plan Association and Waze, traffic delays are down in the Congestion Relief Zone by 25% and across the metropolitan region by 9%. Delays are also down by 10% in the Bronx and 14% in parts of Bergen County, NJ. Time lost to traffic jams is down 12%, giving seven minutes for every hour spent in traffic in 2024 back to commuters’ lives. Travel times on river crossings have decreased by 6% to as much as 42% in 2025 compared to 2024. In the Holland Tunnel, rush hour delays are down by 65% since congestion pricing began. In the Lincoln Tunnel, MTA express buses are traveling almost 24% faster than in 2024. Roads and highways approaching the Congestion Relief Zone, including Flatbush Ave in Brooklyn and the Long Island Expressway, are also moving faster than last year.

    Reduced gridlock has improved quality of life in New York City. Crashes in the Congestion Relief Zone are down 14%. Traffic injuries are down by 15% in the zone, and the safety benefits are being felt citywide. Just this week, the New York City Department of Transportation released data showing that pedestrian fatalities on New York City streets are at historic lows, matching levels last seen in 2018.

    Additionally, air quality has improved and noise pollution has reduced since the program was launched. Honking and vehicle noise complaints to 311 are down by 45% in 2025. A new report from the City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene released on July 2 showed steady or decreasing levels of fine particle air pollution (or PM2.5) at most sites, both inside and outside the Congestion Relief Zone.

    Transit service and ridership are on the rise

    Transit ridership across all modes has increased from January-May 2025 when compared to the same period last year. All MTA modes of public transportation have had post-pandemic record high ridership in the first half of 2025.

    • Subway: +7%
    • Bus: +12%
    • LIRR: +8%
    • Metro-North: +6%
    • Access-A-Ride: +21%

    Transit service has steadily improved in 2025 to near record levels. In May, subway On-Time Performance was 85.2%, the best non-pandemic month in recorded history. Long Island Rail Road and Metro-North On-Time Performance have consistently been at or near 97% and 98% respectively in 2025. Buses are moving faster thanks to congestion pricing. Bus speeds have increased by an average of 3.2% within the CRZ, with some routes increasing by as much as 25%.

    Governor Hochul and the MTA have also made historic investments to improve bus service. Service was increased on eight key Express Bus routes in March and on 14 high-ridership local bus routes on June 29th. The MTA also launched the first phase of the Queens Bus Network Redesign on June 29th, bringing more frequent and direct service with better connections to 800,000 Queens bus riders. Phase 2 will launch on August 31.

    Economic activity in New York City is up

    Gridlock is bad for the economy. According to a report from the Partnership for New York City before congestion pricing was launched, businesses and individuals were wasting hundreds of hours sitting in traffic, costing the economy $20 billion per year. Congestion pricing is a locally developed solution to a generational challenge. 

    Already, the benefits of congestion pricing are improving New York City’s economy. Commuters are saving as much as 21 minutes each way. Time savings help businesses make deliveries and save costs. The annual value of these time savings could be as high as $1.3 billion. In May, business district pedestrian activity within the Congestion Relief Zone increased by 8.4% compared to May 2024. This growth is much faster than for business districts outside of the zone, which saw an increase of 2.7%.

    Business is booming in the Congestion Relief Zone in 2025. Broadway just posted its biggest season ever with $1.9 billion in ticket sales; retail sales are on track to be up $900 million in 2025 compared to 2024; Hotel occupancy was 87% in April 2025 compared to 85% in April 2024; Commercial office leasing in 2025 Q1 is up 11% compared to 2024 Q4 and up 80% since 2024 Q1. At the same time, New York City now has the most jobs in its history – nearing 4.86 million in April 2025. That represents 1.6% growth over April 2024, outpacing the national average of 1.1%.

    The MTA is investing in transit improvements funded by congestion pricing

    By enabling the MTA to issue $15 billion in bonds to fund projects in its 2020-2024 Capital Plan, congestion pricing is powering improvements across the MTA network. Improvement projects funded by congestion pricing include:

    • 435 additional R211 subway cars – including 80 additional open-gangway cars
    • 44 new, more reliable dual-mode locomotives for the Long Island Rail Road
    • 300 new M9A cars for Metro-North and the Long Island Rail-Road
    • Communications Based Train Control (CBTC) signal upgrades on the A and C lines between Downtown Brooklyn and Ozone Park, allowing for more frequent and reliable service
    • Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) upgrades at 23 subway stations, including new elevators, reconstructed platforms, and other improvements

    Additionally, funding from congestion pricing allows the MTA to move forward with the tunneling contract for Phase 2 of the Second Avenue Subway, which will be awarded in the second half of 2025.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Where Will Crypto Mining Go Next? PFMCrypto Launches New Mobile Cloud Mining App for Earning Anytime, Anywhere

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Farington, England, July 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — With rising interest in alternative ways to grow digital wealth, PFMCrypto is proud to announce the official launch of its mobile cloud mining app, available now for iOS and Android. Designed for accessibility, speed, and security, the app allows users to participate in crypto mining directly from their smartphones—no mining rigs or technical skills required. Supporting BTC, DOGE, ETH and XRP settlements, the app opens multiple paths to passive income in a single streamlined interface. First-time users receive a $10 bonus upon signup, making it easier than ever to begin mining instantly from anywhere in the world.

    Download the new PFMCrypto App today from: https://pfmcrypto.net 

    Cloud Mining, Now in Your Pocket

    For too long, crypto mining has been confined to expensive setups and complex configurations. PFMCrypto changes the landscape with its mobile-first cloud mining app. Users can activate contracts, track daily earnings, and withdraw in BTC, DOGE, ETH or XRP—all from a phone. Whether commuting, relaxing, or traveling, the opportunity to earn digital rewards is now just a tap away.

    By combining real-time mining with flexible payout options, the app is ideal for both casual users and committed investors. Every contract is fully remote, AI-optimized, and secured through enterprise-grade encryption, giving users peace of mind and continuous earning power.

    Key Features of PFMCrypto’s Mobile Cloud Mining App:

    –  Multi-Token Settlements: Withdraw earnings in BTC, DOGE, ETH or XRP—choose the asset that fits personal goals

    –  User-Friendly Interface: Designed for effortless mining management from any mobile device

    –  Instant Contract Activation: Start earning immediately with zero hardware required

    –  Real-Time Tracking: View contract status, returns, and market performance in one dashboard

    –  AI Optimization: Smart algorithms boost mining efficiency—even during low-volatility periods

    Mining Contracts Tailored for Every Lifestyle

    The PFMCrypto app offers a full range of cloud mining contracts suited for various investment levels and time frames. From short-term 1-day plans to long-term 45-day strategies, users can select contracts that align with their earning goals and risk tolerance:

    $10 Contract – 1 Day – Earn $0.66 (Free with signup bonus)

    $100 Contract – 2 Days – Earn $3.00 daily + $2 extra reward

    $500 Contract – 5 Days – Earn $6.15 daily

    $5,000 Contract – 30 Days – Earn $78.50 daily

    $20,000 Contract – 45 Days – Earn $380.00 daily

    Every plan offers daily payouts, with flexible reinvestment options and zero maintenance fees. The $10 bonus makes it easy to get started—without any initial investment.

    Click here to explore more contracts.

    What Makes PFMCrypto’s Mobile Mining App Stand Out?

    –  100% Remote Mining:

    All contracts operate via the cloud and require no physical infrastructure or technical setup. Simply log in, select a plan, and start earning from anywhere.

    –  Principal Guarantee:

    At the end of each contract, the original investment amount is returned in full—protecting capital while maximizing daily rewards.

    –  AI-Enhanced Performance:

    The platform uses proprietary AI systems to analyze market conditions and optimize mining output across supported coins.

    –  Multi-Channel Passive Income:

    With options to receive earnings in 10 major cryptocurrencies, the app empowers users to diversify income streams and manage risk effectively.

    How to Get Started with PFMCrypto’s Mobile App？

    1. Create an Account – Instantly receive a $10 bonus and unlock beginner-friendly mining contracts.
    2. Choose a Plan – Activate a short- or long-term contract with daily payouts.
    3. Start Earning – Watch earnings grow and withdraw in the preferred token.

    Download the app or log in via the website.

    Mining Freedom for a Multi-Coin Future

    Since 2018, PFMCrypto has helped global users generate reliable crypto income without complexity. With this mobile launch, the platform takes another step toward decentralizing opportunity—making mining smarter, more flexible, and more rewarding.

    “With support for multiple coins and the ability to mine on the move, this app brings the next era of cloud mining directly to users’ hands,” said a PFMCrypto spokesperson. “We’ve combined performance, simplicity, and choice—so anyone can earn from the crypto economy, any time.”

    Digital markets may shift—but passive income doesn’t have to. Download the PFMCrypto app today and start mining BTC, DOGE, ETH or XRP with zero hassle.

    Disclaimer: The information provided in this press release does not constitute an investment solicitation, nor does it constitute investment advice, financial advice, or trading recommendations. Cryptocurrency mining and staking involve risks and the possibility of losing funds. It is strongly recommended that you perform due diligence before investing or trading in cryptocurrencies and securities, including consulting a professional financial advisor.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Where Will Crypto Mining Go Next? PFMCrypto Launches New Mobile Cloud Mining App for Earning Anytime, Anywhere

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Farington, England, July 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — With rising interest in alternative ways to grow digital wealth, PFMCrypto is proud to announce the official launch of its mobile cloud mining app, available now for iOS and Android. Designed for accessibility, speed, and security, the app allows users to participate in crypto mining directly from their smartphones—no mining rigs or technical skills required. Supporting BTC, DOGE, ETH and XRP settlements, the app opens multiple paths to passive income in a single streamlined interface. First-time users receive a $10 bonus upon signup, making it easier than ever to begin mining instantly from anywhere in the world.

    Download the new PFMCrypto App today from: https://pfmcrypto.net 

    Cloud Mining, Now in Your Pocket

    For too long, crypto mining has been confined to expensive setups and complex configurations. PFMCrypto changes the landscape with its mobile-first cloud mining app. Users can activate contracts, track daily earnings, and withdraw in BTC, DOGE, ETH or XRP—all from a phone. Whether commuting, relaxing, or traveling, the opportunity to earn digital rewards is now just a tap away.

    By combining real-time mining with flexible payout options, the app is ideal for both casual users and committed investors. Every contract is fully remote, AI-optimized, and secured through enterprise-grade encryption, giving users peace of mind and continuous earning power.

    Key Features of PFMCrypto’s Mobile Cloud Mining App:

    –  Multi-Token Settlements: Withdraw earnings in BTC, DOGE, ETH or XRP—choose the asset that fits personal goals

    –  User-Friendly Interface: Designed for effortless mining management from any mobile device

    –  Instant Contract Activation: Start earning immediately with zero hardware required

    –  Real-Time Tracking: View contract status, returns, and market performance in one dashboard

    –  AI Optimization: Smart algorithms boost mining efficiency—even during low-volatility periods

    Mining Contracts Tailored for Every Lifestyle

    The PFMCrypto app offers a full range of cloud mining contracts suited for various investment levels and time frames. From short-term 1-day plans to long-term 45-day strategies, users can select contracts that align with their earning goals and risk tolerance:

    $10 Contract – 1 Day – Earn $0.66 (Free with signup bonus)

    $100 Contract – 2 Days – Earn $3.00 daily + $2 extra reward

    $500 Contract – 5 Days – Earn $6.15 daily

    $5,000 Contract – 30 Days – Earn $78.50 daily

    $20,000 Contract – 45 Days – Earn $380.00 daily

    Every plan offers daily payouts, with flexible reinvestment options and zero maintenance fees. The $10 bonus makes it easy to get started—without any initial investment.

    Click here to explore more contracts.

    What Makes PFMCrypto’s Mobile Mining App Stand Out?

    –  100% Remote Mining:

    All contracts operate via the cloud and require no physical infrastructure or technical setup. Simply log in, select a plan, and start earning from anywhere.

    –  Principal Guarantee:

    At the end of each contract, the original investment amount is returned in full—protecting capital while maximizing daily rewards.

    –  AI-Enhanced Performance:

    The platform uses proprietary AI systems to analyze market conditions and optimize mining output across supported coins.

    –  Multi-Channel Passive Income:

    With options to receive earnings in 10 major cryptocurrencies, the app empowers users to diversify income streams and manage risk effectively.

    How to Get Started with PFMCrypto’s Mobile App？

    1. Create an Account – Instantly receive a $10 bonus and unlock beginner-friendly mining contracts.
    2. Choose a Plan – Activate a short- or long-term contract with daily payouts.
    3. Start Earning – Watch earnings grow and withdraw in the preferred token.

    Download the app or log in via the website.

    Mining Freedom for a Multi-Coin Future

    Since 2018, PFMCrypto has helped global users generate reliable crypto income without complexity. With this mobile launch, the platform takes another step toward decentralizing opportunity—making mining smarter, more flexible, and more rewarding.

    “With support for multiple coins and the ability to mine on the move, this app brings the next era of cloud mining directly to users’ hands,” said a PFMCrypto spokesperson. “We’ve combined performance, simplicity, and choice—so anyone can earn from the crypto economy, any time.”

    Digital markets may shift—but passive income doesn’t have to. Download the PFMCrypto app today and start mining BTC, DOGE, ETH or XRP with zero hassle.

    Disclaimer: The information provided in this press release does not constitute an investment solicitation, nor does it constitute investment advice, financial advice, or trading recommendations. Cryptocurrency mining and staking involve risks and the possibility of losing funds. It is strongly recommended that you perform due diligence before investing or trading in cryptocurrencies and securities, including consulting a professional financial advisor.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK re-establishes diplomatic relations with Syria in first Ministerial visit for 14 years

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    UK re-establishes diplomatic relations with Syria in first Ministerial visit for 14 years

    The Foreign Secretary has visited Syria to renew our diplomatic relationship, eight months on from the collapse of Assad’s regime.

    • Foreign Secretary’s visit to Syria marks first by a UK Minister in 14 years and renews the UK and Syria’s diplomatic relationship.
    • Commitment to support Syria as the new Government seeks to rebuild Syria’s economy, deliver an inclusive political transition and forge a path to justice for the victims of the Assad regime.
    • New UK funding to assist with removal of Assad era chemical weapons and provide urgent humanitarian assistance in Syria, to bolster UK and Middle East security, tackle irregular migration, and deliver on the Government’s Plan for Change.

    Eight months on from the collapse of the Assad regime, the UK has officially re-established diplomatic relations with the Syrian Government following the Foreign Secretary’s visit to Damascus today.

    As the first UK Minister to visit in 14 years, the Foreign Secretary emphasised that the UK will support the Syrian Government to deliver its commitments to build a more secure and prosperous future for Syrians, increasing security in the wider region and the UK.

    The Foreign Secretary met President Al-Sharaa and Foreign Minister al-Shaibani to reiterate the importance of an inclusive and representative political transition in Syria and offer continued UK support to the Syrian people.

    A stable Syria is in the UK’s interests. We want to ensure that Daesh’s territorial defeat endures, and they can never resurge, and we want to prevent vulnerable Syrians from being exploited by people smuggling gangs across Europe. Building closer diplomatic partnerships with Syria is critical to safeguard UK security, in line with the Government’s Plan for Change.

    Foreign Secretary, David Lammy said:

    As the first UK Minister to visit Syria since the fall of Assad’s brutal regime, I’ve seen first-hand the remarkable progress Syrians have made in rebuilding their lives and their country.

    After over a decade of conflict, there is renewed hope for the Syrian people. The UK is re-establishing diplomatic relations because it is in our interests to support the new government to deliver their commitment to build a stable, more secure and prosperous future for all Syrians.

    A stable Syria is in the UK’s interests, reducing the risk of irregular migration, ensuring the destruction of chemical weapons, tackling the threat of terrorism and delivering the Government’s Plan for Change.

    During his visit to Syria, the Foreign Secretary met Syrian Civil Defence volunteers (White Helmets) to learn more about the vital work they carry out across the country, including with the safe removal of unexploded ordnance and emergency lifesaving medical work.

    The fall of Assad presents an opportunity for the new Syrian government to fully declare and destroy Assad’s evil chemical weapons programme. As part of the visit, the UK has committed an additional £2 million this financial year to the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) to support their vital work addressing the horrific legacy of Assad’s chemical weapons in Syria. The UK contribution will support the OPCW’s operational requirements in Syria as they help the Syrian Government fulfil their commitments to eliminate Assad’s chemical weapons once and for all.

    Demonstrating the UK’s continued commitment to sustainable development and Syria’s recovery from conflict, the Foreign Secretary met women-led businesses in Syria, which have been supported by the UK’s livelihoods and economic recovery programme.

    UK support is set to continue, with the additional £94.5 million package announced today, which will provide urgent humanitarian aid to Syrians, support Syria’s longer-term recovery through education and livelihoods, and support countries hosting Syrian refugees in the region.

    The Foreign Secretary will travel on to Kuwait where strengthening regional security and boosting bilateral relations will be top of the agenda in meetings with His Highness the Crown Prince, His Highness the Prime Minister and His Excellency the Foreign Minister. The Foreign Secretary will advocate for UK businesses to have access to new opportunities to support Kuwaiti growing markets– further advancing business engagement between UK and Kuwait and the wider region.   

    The Foreign Secretary will also announce a new partnership with Kuwait to tackle the humanitarian crisis in Sudan. New funding will help provide nutrition support and restore clean drinking water supplies, as Sudan faces both famine and a devastating cholera outbreak. Support will also be made available to fund lifesaving work in Somalia where conflict and the climate crisis are driving pressing humanitarian needs. 

    ENDS

    Notes to Editors:

    • The UK has provided £4.5bn of assistance to Syria and countries in the region since 2011.
    • Over the past two years the UK has provided more than £5m to the White Helmets in support of their lifesaving emergency medical, firefighting and search rescue services. This includes £2.25m this financial year to continue this work and ensure a smooth transition of their activities to the Government.
    • The UK has already provided £837,300 to the OPCW Syria Missions since the fall of Assad to support their immediate work in ensuring the safe and rapid destruction of Syria’s chemical weapons.

    Media enquiries

    Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

    Telephone 020 7008 3100

    Email the FCDO Newsdesk (monitored 24 hours a day) in the first instance, and we will respond as soon as possible.

    Updates to this page

    Published 5 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Allister tells Glasgow 12th of Protocol risk to the UK

    Source: Traditional Unionist Voice – Northern Ireland

    TUV leader Jim Allister told the ‘Glasgow Twelfth’ the very substance and existence of the United Kingdom was at risk because of the Protocol/Windsor Framework.

    “The constitutional basis of your membership of the U.K., the Act of Union 1707, and Northern Ireland’s, the Act of Union 1800, are identical in form and substance. Each is built on the twin pillars of a political union and an economic union. Art 3 of each of our Acts of Union affirm a political union through a single sovereign parliament for the whole nation; and each of our Articles 6 guarantee unfettered trade between and within all parts of the Kingdom.

    “It is the latter, of course, that has been trashed by the union-dismantling Windsor Framework, because it fetters trade with NI by establishing an EU border to entrap NI within its territory and control.

    “Whereas England, Scotland Wales left the EU, Northern Ireland was left behind under its Customs Code and in its Single market for goods, meaning in 300 areas of law we are governed by foreign laws we don’t make and can’t change. That is not just a democratic outrage, but a deliberate building block for Irish unity as NI is now governed in those 300 areas by the identical laws as the Republic of Ireland. And as these are the laws that shape our trade and economy they are inexorably building the stepping stone of an all-Ireland economy, which always was the intended design of the Windsor Framework.

    “Hence, why anyone worthy of the name ‘unionist’ rejects the Windsor Framework in all its parts.

    “In that rejection we ask for the support of our fellow citizens in Scotland who equally recognise threat to our Union when they see it, because you, like us, live under the blight of a separatist First Minister, though you are spared the obscenity of being told there was no alternative to the murder of your kith and kin.

    “Going forward, there is common cause in rebuilding and restoring our Union, so that the natural affinity between Scotland and Northern Ireland – which is reflected in what we celebrate today – is accentuated, not blocked with preposterous trade barriers and the heavy hand of EU colonial rule, from which you have been spared, but by which we are still benighted.

    “Your covenanting forefathers knew the strength and value of covenanting together to defend what mattered; may we together with determination covenant to not rest until all our nation is free of the foreign rule of Brussels diktats.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • Trump says tariff letters to 12 countries signed, going out Monday

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    U.S. President Donald Trump said he had signed letters to 12 countries outlining the various tariff levels they would face on goods they export to the United States, with the “take it or leave it” offers to be sent out on Monday.

    Trump, speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One as he traveled to New Jersey, declined to name the countries involved, saying that would be made public on Monday.

    In a global trade war that has upended financial markets and set off a scramble among policymakers to guard their economies, Trump in April announced a 10% base tariff rate and additional amounts for most countries, some ranging as high as 50%.

    However, all but the 10% base rate were subsequently suspended for 90 days to allow more time for negotiations to secure deals.

    That period ends on July 9, although Trump early on Friday said the tariffs could be even higher – ranging up to 70% – with most set to go into effect August 1.

    “I signed some letters and they’ll go out on Monday, probably twelve,” Trump said, when asked about his plans on the tariff front. “Different amounts of money, different amounts of tariffs.”

    Trump and his top aides initially said they would launch negotiations with scores of countries on tariff rates, but the U.S. president has soured on that process after repeated setbacks with major trading partners, including Japan and the European Union.

    He touched on that briefly late on Friday, telling reporters: “The letters are better … much easier to send a letter.”

    He did not address his prediction that some broader trade agreements could be reached before the July 9 deadline.

    The shift in the White House’s strategy reflects the challenges of completing trade agreements on everything from tariffs to non-tariff barriers such as bans on agricultural imports, and especially on an accelerated timeline.

    Most past trade agreements have taken years of negotiations to complete.

    The only trade agreements reached to date are with Britain, which reached a deal in May to keep a 10% rate and won preferential treatment for some sectors including autos and aircraft engines, and with Vietnam, cutting tariffs on many Vietnamese goods to 20% from his previously threatened 46%. Many U.S. products would be allowed to enter Vietnam duty free.

    A deal expected with India has failed to materialize, and EU diplomats on Friday said they have failed to achieve a breakthrough in trade negotiations with the Trump administration, and may now seek to extend the status quo to avoid tariff hikes.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HKETO Jakarta celebrates in Philippines 28th anniversary of HKSAR establishment (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    ​The Director-General of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Jakarta, Miss Libera Cheng, today (July 5) attended a dinner organised by the Hongkong Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines Inc in Manila, the Philippines, to celebrate the 28th anniversary of the establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.

    Addressing the dinner, Miss Cheng said that with the staunch support of the motherland and the advantages in connecting the Mainland and the world under the “one country, two systems” principle, Hong Kong has continued to consolidate its status as an international financial, shipping and trade centre. Hong Kong has performed remarkably in international rankings. It was named the world’s freest economy in the Economic Freedom of the World 2024 Annual Report, and ranked third globally in the World Competitiveness Yearbook 2025, the World Investment Report 2025 and the Global Financial Centres Index. Hong Kong’s success in attracting top-tier international companies and talent is also widely acknowledged. The number of companies in Hong Kong with overseas or Mainland parent companies has risen to 9 960, while the number of start-ups in the city increased to around 4 700, both reaching record highs.

    Miss Cheng added that Hong Kong has a close relationship with the Philippines. Hong Kong is the Philippines’ fifth largest trading partner, with bilateral trade in goods amounting to US$13.9 billion last year. In tourism, Hong Kong has continued to attract Filipino visitors, welcoming around 1.2 million arrivals from the Philippines last year, representing a 55 per cent increase compared with 2023. In the first five months of this year alone, more than 550 000 Filipino visitors travelled to Hong Kong, marking a 27 per cent year-on-year increase and reflecting strong people-to-people ties between the two places.

    Miss Cheng also shared the latest developments in Hong Kong with the guests, highlighting the emerging opportunities under the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area as strategic responses to future challenges. She said that as a global financial and trade centre, Hong Kong is well positioned to serve as a vital bridge connecting Mainland China and the Philippines. She thanked the chamber for fostering connections, and hoped that more outstanding Philippine enterprises would expand their business networks in Hong Kong to create synergy. On the other hand, Hong Kong has been actively seeking early accession to the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, with a view to making greater contributions to regional development.

    Around 250 representatives from the local government and business sectors, including the Minister Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines, Ms Wang Yulei, and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council’s Consultant in Manila, Ms Maribeth Barros, attended the event.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: BTCMiner cloud mining is easy and has no barriers to entry. Everyone can participate. Join early and start earning stable income early!

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York City, NY, July 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In 2025, the global economy is facing a downturn, market volatility is intensifying, inflation and high interest rates are putting many traditional investment methods under great pressure, and many people are unsure where to invest next?

    Ron Rivest, an important figure in the field of cryptocurrency cloud mining, said: In the traditional mining model, investors not only need to bear equipment failures and technical problems, but may also face losses caused by market fluctuations.

    Ron Rivest emphasized that BTCMiner cloud mining ensures that investors can obtain stable principal and interest protection with the support of a professional team through professional management of mines and resources. [Guaranteed principal and interest]

    Ron Rivest pointed out that the BTCMiner cloud mining platform provides a variety of flexible contract options [1-30 days] This flexibility provides tailor-made opportunities for different types of investors, whether it is short-term rapid returns or long-term stable appreciation, you can find a suitable contract.

    Ron Rivest reiterated that BTCMiner was founded in 2009 and is one of the few established professional mining platforms. Feel free to join, it is like our personal butler

    Steps to join:

    1: Go to the official website to fill in a valid email address to register → https://btcminer.net

    2: Select a contract, the platform has a variety of contracts, and users can choose multiple contracts at the same time

    3: 24-hour automatic settlement of income, each contract is settled independently

    4: You can go to the personal dashboard to view the income details, order records, deposits and withdrawals

    BTCMiner partial contract display, go to the official website to view more contracts,

    BTCMiner platform advantages:

    Multi-currency support
    BTC Miner supports a variety of mainstream cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin (BTC), Ripple (XRP), Ethereum (ETH), etc. Users can freely choose the currency to recharge and withdraw according to their personal needs, which improves the flexibility and global applicability of the platform

    Zero hardware investment, simple operation
    Users do not need to purchase or maintain any mining machines, completely eliminating hardware investment and power consumption. The platform provides a simple operation process, easily start mining, and enjoy stable passive income

    Transparent income system
    All income calculations and settlements are open and transparent, users can view their income data in real time, and the platform income settlement is fast and reliable, ensuring that every investor can clearly understand their own financial situation

    Global mining resources
    BTC Miner relies on the world’s leading mining facilities and combines cloud computing technology to ensure efficient and stable mining performance. No matter where you are, you can enjoy the stable income brought by global mines

    Compliance operation, fund security
    The platform follows international compliance standards, user funds are stored in top banks, and SSL encryption technology and insurance protection are used to ensure the safety of every user’s funds

    Flexible contract selection
    Provides a variety of flexible contract plans. Users can choose the contract that suits them according to their personal risk preferences. Whether it is a short-term contract or a long-term contract, they can get a stable return

    Recommendation reward plan
    BTC Miner provides users with a recommendation reward mechanism. Users can get up to 7% reward by inviting new members to join the platform and complete the investment, helping users to further increase their income by expanding their network of contacts

    24/7 customer support
    BTC Miner provides 24/7 customer service support. Whether it is an operational problem or technical support, users can get professional help at any time to ensure a smooth and worry-free experience on the platform

    Low threshold participation
    The platform provides novice users with a free experience bonus of $500 to help you experience cloud mining services at zero cost. Even investors without any experience can easily join and start mining

    Intelligent mining management
    The platform uses smart contracts and automation technology to ensure that the mining process is efficient and stable. Users do not need to pay attention to complex technical issues and can focus on enjoying the returns

    As an important expert in the field of cryptocurrency, Ron Rivest highly praised the functions and advantages of the BTC Miner platform. He believes that the BTCMiner platform can not only effectively simplify the cryptocurrency mining process, but also provide an efficient, safe and stable investment environment for global investors

    Get $500 now

    Official website: https://btcminer.net

    Email: info@btcminer.net

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: RIPPLECOIN Mining Cloud Mining Opens a New Channel for Steady Profits in the Crypto Market

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    London, UK, July 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As Bitcoin (BTC) approaches its all-time high of $112,000, Ethereum (ETH) and Dogecoin (DOGE) prices fluctuate frequently, and the sharp fluctuations in the crypto market have increased the anxiety of investors holding coins. Data shows that in the past three days alone, BTC has fluctuated violently between $105,000 and $109,400, while ETH has been hovering between breakthroughs and declines, and DOGE has repeatedly adjusted due to the lack of mainstream momentum.

    With ETF funds pouring in, geopolitics temporarily easing, and the Federal Reserve sending signals of potential rate cuts, investors are bullish on the long-term trend, but are unable to withstand the psychological and financial pressure brought by short-term fluctuations.

    “Waking up every day to see if BTC has fallen is too much like gambling.” – A Reddit user commented.
    “I’m fed up with the dual fluctuations of ETH gas fees and coin prices.” — Feedback from X (former Twitter user).

    Experts suggest: Safe-haven funds are flocking to cloud mining

    Alex G., chief strategist at crypto asset research firm Cryptometrics, pointed out: “When the market direction is not clear, ordinary investors should not bet on short-term price fluctuations. At this stage, cloud mining provides users with a passive income model based on computing power contracts, which is a core tool for stable cash flow strategies.” 

    Chainpulse’s latest monthly report also shows: “Before ETF sentiment and policy cycles are fully clear, regular cloud mining platforms such as Ripplecoin Mining have become the first choice for more and more crypto asset holders to allocate assets.”

    Ripplecoin Mining: Turning Volatility into Income

    Ripplecoin Mining is a global legally registered cloud mining platform established in 2017, which supports users to access the global computing power network driven by green energy with one click through encrypted assets such as XRP, USDT, BTC, etc. The platform integrates AI computing power scheduling system to realize remote equipment-free mining, reducing technical barriers and investment risks.
    New users can get a free computing power trial worth $15 when they register, which is applicable to cloud mining experience of mainstream currencies such as BTC, ETH, DOGE, etc., without paying any upfront fees.

    Profit mechanism and risk balance: flexible contracts, daily settlement

    Ripplecoin Mining provides flexible contract options such as 7 days, 15 days, and 30 days, with a minimum investment threshold of $100. The platform automatically settles daily income to the account and supports free withdrawal of currencies such as XRP, BTC, and USDT. Platform data shows that the current average daily income of users ranges from $5 to $88,000, and the specific income is dynamically related to the selected contract size, currency, and difficulty of the entire network.

    Get started quickly in just three steps:

    Register an account: Visit the official website, fill in your email address and password, and you can get a free computing power trial;

    Choose a contract: Choose a flexible package based on your budget and goals

    Start mining: The AI-driven computing power scheduling system runs automatically, daily income is credited to your account, and you can withdraw cash at any time.

    Positive feedback from the user community: From “waiting for the currency to rise” to “daily income”

    According to analysis of Reddit and X social platforms, in the past 30 days, the number of Ripplecoin Mining mentions in discussions about keywords such as “cloud mining”, “passive income” and “crypto daily yield” has increased by more than 243%. Many users reported that:

    “Ripplecoin Mining helps me get rid of market anxiety and allows my assets to generate cash returns every day.”
    “I’m not worried about the price of the currency at all. What I care about is how much money will arrive in my account tomorrow.”

    Conclusion: Turning to stability is the real strategy

    Before the ETF craze and macro policy changes are finalized, cloud mining, as a “digital cash flow” solution that does not rely on exchanges and is not affected by drastic price fluctuations, is gradually becoming a realistic option for mainstream investors.
    Whether you hold BTC, XRP, or DOGE, it’s time to consider how to make these assets continue to create value for you.
    If you are looking for a crypto mining platform that requires no equipment, is sustainable, and suitable for long-term participation, Ripplecoin Mining is a trustworthy choice.

    Media Contact Information

    Official Website: https://ripplecoinmining.com
    App Download: https://ripplecoinmining.com/xml/index.html#/app
    Contact: Anne Watson Media Director
    Position: Media Director
    Mail: info@ripplecoinmining.com

    Disclaimer:
    The content of this press release does not constitute any form of investment advice, trading advice or financial commitment. The cryptocurrency market is risky, and cloud mining participants need to carefully assess potential risks based on their own circumstances. It is recommended to consult a professional financial advisor in advance.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: BexBack Announces New 100x Leverage, 100% Deposit Bonus & $50 Welcome Bonus – No KYC Required

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, July 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In response to the growing demand for high-leverage crypto trading, BexBack, a leading cryptocurrency exchange platform, is excited to announce the launch of its enhanced trading features, now available to all users worldwide.

    As Bitcoin continues to fluctuate above the $100,000 mark, many investors are seeking opportunities to maximize their potential gains in this volatile market. To support this, BexBack is rolling out a limited-time offer featuring 100x leverage, 100% deposit match, and a $50 welcome bonus for new users.

    What’s New at BexBack?

    1. 100x Leverage: Traders can now amplify their positions by up to 100 times, enabling them to control larger trades with less capital and capture more profit from market fluctuations.
    2. 100% Deposit Bonus Match: Users who deposit funds into their BexBack accounts will receive a 100% match on their deposit, effectively doubling their initial trading capital. This bonus can be used as margin but cannot be used to offset losses.
    3. $50 Welcome Bonus: New users who meet the conditions will receive a $50 bonus upon completing their first trade.
    4. Demo Account: Comes with 10 BTC in virtual funds, ideal for beginners to practice risk-free trading.

    No KYC Required
    BexBack continues to provide a seamless and efficient trading experience with no KYC verification required, allowing traders to start trading immediately without the hassle of identity checks.

    Why Choose BexBack?
    BexBack offers a unique combination of high leverage, bonuses, and a transparent trading environment with no hidden fees, enabling traders to fully capitalize on market opportunities. The platform is known for its user-friendly interface, high-level security, and around-the-clock customer support, making it the preferred choice for both new and experienced traders.

    Take Action Now!

    This is the perfect opportunity to get started with BexBack and experience the power of high-leverage trading with attractive bonuses. To get started, simply sign up for an account and claim your bonus today! Register Now and Start Trading on BexBack!

    About BexBack

    BexBack is a cutting-edge cryptocurrency exchange platform providing futures contracts with up to 100x leverage on popular digital assets like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and more. With its base in Singapore and offices globally, BexBack is committed to providing traders with top-tier security, advanced trading tools, and exceptional customer service.

    Website: www.bexback.com

    Contact: business@bexback.com

    Contact:
    Amanda
    business@bexback.com

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by BexBack The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility. Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/be290778-76af-43cb-ac8a-dc090f805c3d

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d13ae933-e7b2-48b0-869f-5552366f1027

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3e5ea3d9-e23e-48aa-a993-191d9537678d

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e7006331-ffdf-4b77-8024-42dedf1e8004

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Direct flight connects China’s Urumqi with Kazakhstan’s Shymkent

    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

    URUMQI, July 5 (Xinhua) — A direct flight service was launched Saturday between Urumqi, capital of northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, and Shymkent in Kazakhstan.

    The first flight, which was operated by Kazakhstan’s Scat Airlines, departed on the same day from Urumqi’s Tianshan International Airport. Flights on the new route are operated twice a week – on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

    Upon arrival from Urumqi to Shymkent, one of the transport hubs in the southern part of Kazakhstan, passengers can travel to Cairo, Istanbul, Moscow and others on the planes of the above-mentioned air carrier.

    According to the Tianshan Airport Administration, the opening of this air route will further promote exchanges between the two regions in trade, economy, tourism and culture. Meanwhile, the transfer service in Shymkent will make travel from Xinjiang to the Middle East and Europe more convenient, promoting the development of people-to-people exchanges and trade ties.

    In the first half of this year, 27 civil aviation airports in Xinjiang served 579 routes, including 26 passenger routes to Hong Kong, Macao, Taiwan and overseas, including 21 cities in Central Asia, Eastern Europe, West Asia and Southeast Asia. Currently, air traffic connects Urumqi with 10 cities in five Central Asian countries. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Rio de Janeiro gears up for BRICS Summit

    Source: Government of South Africa

    By Gabi Khumalo

    Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – All eyes are on Rio de Janeiro, Brazil as the city prepares to welcome Heads of State and delegations from across the world for the 17th BRICS Summit.

    The Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa (BRICS) nations will converge in the metro for high-level engagements at the Summit taking place on 6 and 7 July 2025.

    Originally comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, BRICS has since expanded to include Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates. The new members were invited to join during the Johannesburg BRICS Summit, held in South Africa, in August 2023.

    BRICS brings together major emerging economies, collectively representing around 49.5% of the global population, around 40% of the global Gross Domestic Product (GDP), and around 26% of global trade.

    In preparing for the upcoming event, Rio has heightened security measures. On Friday afternoon, military personnel were deployed at strategic venues and sites, including hotels and museums.

    Trucks delivering furniture and vehicles transporting international delegates were also seen entering and exiting the summit venue.

    South African President Cyril Ramaphosa is scheduled to arrive in Rio de Janeiro on Saturday, while Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to participate virtually.

    Representing the United Arab Emirates (UAE), His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, will lead the UAE delegation on behalf of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE.

    Brazil assumed the BRICS Chairship on 1 January 2025 with the theme: “Strengthening Global South Cooperation for more Inclusive and Sustainable Governance”.

    Brazil’s Presidency will focus on two priorities, including Global South Cooperation and the BRICS Partnerships for Social, and Economic and Environmental Development.

    The flagship priorities of the Brazilian Chairship include global health cooperation; trade, investment, and finance; climate change; Artificial Intelligence (AI) governance; promoting global reform of the multilateral peace system and security architecture; and institutional development.

    The key objectives of BRICS include strengthening economic, political, and social cooperation among its members, as well as increasing the influence of Global South countries in international governance.

    Among its ambitions are reforms to global institutions such as the United Nations, the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the World Bank, and the World Trade Organisation (WTO), with a focus on improving legitimacy, equity, and operational efficiency.

    The group also seeks to improve the legitimacy, equity in participation, and efficiency of global institutions, including the United Nations, International Monetary Fund (IMF), World Bank, and the World Trade Organisation (WTO). – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Budget allocation to enable GCIS to serve the nation

    Source: Government of South Africa

    Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Kenny Morolong, has affirmed that the budget allocated to the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) will enable it to carry out its mandate.

    “We hope that it will assist funding campaigns aimed at fighting gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) and building social cohesion. We hope that, with the support of government, it will achieve all that,” Morolong said.

    The GCIS is an agency of government charged with coordinating, managing, and advising on all government communication with the public, including media liaison. It is a unit in the Office of the President and falls under the political authority of the Minister in the Presidency.

    Speaking to SAnews after Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni presented the GCIS Budget Vote in Parliament on Friday, the Deputy Minister explained that part of the budget will be used to fund community media.

    “It is part of our plans to fund the work of community televisions and radio stations, we will have to find better funding models, especially with our advertising,” Morolong said.

    He had hoped more funds could be allocated to the GCIS but assured the public that the GCIS would render the required services to them.

    “We will be able to carry out our mandate as expected and we will be able to run our campaigns as expected, however, we will continue to engage the National Treasury for additional funding,” he said.

    The total budget allocation to the GCIS over the 2025 MTEF period (2025/26 to 2027/28 financial years) amounts to R2.468 billion, which is spread as follows:

    • In 2025/26: R820. 281 million

    • In 2026/27: R805. 731 million

    • In 2027/28: R842.171 million.

    During her Budget Vote speech, Ntshavheni said the GCIS continues to prioritise radio as a pervasive communication channel to reach South Africans in a language of their preference and to ensure that communities engage with government.

    “In the last financial year, 1 086 radio products were used to inform citizens through differentiated formats,” Ntshavheni said.

    The Minister said the GCIS of the future requires an extensive capital budget to accelerate digital transformation technologies and ensure that the department remains relevant, agile and productive as the Fourth Industrial Revolution rolls into the fifth.

    “I table this budget for your support, and I undertake that we will use it diligently to serve the nation. I say this particularly … as South Africa prepares to hold a National Dialogue. The GCIS and its agencies stand ready to ensure South Africans have access to information that will enable their effective participation and feedback,” the Minister said.  

    President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that government would host a National Dialogue that will enable South Africans to participate in engagements that will confront the country’s challenges and forge a path into a better future.

    It will be a people-led, society-wide process to reflect on the state of the country, with people from all walks of life who will come together and help shape the next chapter of South Africa’s democracy.

    All South Africans will have an opportunity to participate as individuals or through organised formations. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Chinese FM calls on China, France to uphold multilateralism and free trade rules

    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

    PARIS, July 5 (Xinhua) — China and France should uphold multilateralism and defend free trade rules in the face of unilateral bullying that undermines the international order, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said here on Friday during talks with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot.

    He noted that under the strategic guidance of the two heads of state, China and France have maintained high-level exchanges, strengthened strategic coordination, and deepened mutual understanding and trust.

    Beijing and Paris successfully held meetings of the China-France high-level people-to-people exchange mechanism and called for using both civilizations to promote mutual learning and remove artificial barriers, Wang said.

    This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in the World Anti-Fascist War and the founding of the UN, the minister noted. Over the past 80 years, China and France have made the right strategic choices at key historical moments, and have jointly influenced and shaped global development, demonstrating the strategic and forward-looking nature of interstate relations, he added.

    In the face of the negative impact of unilateral bullying on the international order, China and France, as permanent members of the UN Security Council and large independent countries, should shoulder the mission of the times, uphold the practice of multilateralism, defend the rules of free trade, and work together to shoulder the responsibility for world peace, contribute to global development and promote the progress of mankind, Wang Yi said.

    He also expressed confidence that the French side will continue to adhere to the one-China principle and protect the political foundation of bilateral relations.

    Wang Yi called on the two sides to continue to deepen cooperation in traditional key areas such as nuclear energy, aviation and astronautics, and expand cooperation in new areas such as artificial intelligence, green energy, biotechnology and the silver economy.

    According to him, China encourages its competitive companies to invest in the French economy and hopes that the French side will provide them with a fair, transparent, non-discriminatory and predictable business environment.

    In turn, Jean-Néon Barrot said that in today’s complex international situation, Franco-Chinese and European-Chinese relations should provide the world with more energy of stability and rationality. Paris and Beijing maintain close high-level exchanges, have achieved positive results in practical cooperation and humanitarian exchanges, the head of the Foreign Ministry added.

    According to him, both France and China adhere to multilateralism. Paris hopes to strengthen ties and cooperation with Beijing to jointly solve global problems, the minister emphasized.

    The French government has a one-China policy and this position remains unchanged, said Jean-Nicolas Barrot. France attaches great importance to the partnership between the EU and China and hopes to take advantage of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the EU and China as an opportunity to deepen cooperation, he added.

    The parties also exchanged views on the Ukrainian crisis and the Iranian nuclear issue. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s Anhui accelerates layout of aerospace information industry

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

    A worker assembles a general aviation aircraft at the workshop of CETC Wuhu Diamond Aircraft Manufacture Co., Ltd. in Wuhu City, east China’s Anhui Province, July 3, 2025. In recent years, Anhui Province has accelerated the layout of its aerospace information industry, which encompasses low-altitude economy, commercial space, satellite applications, and deep space exploration. From booming “low altitude economy” such as drone delivery and low-altitude tourism, to the aggregation of enterprises into a commercial space industry chain, and the accelerating development of deep space exploration, Anhui further enhanced its independent innovation capabilities, and elevated aerospace information industry into a new growth pole for its economic development. (Xinhua/Zhang Cheng)

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    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by CE at Hong Kong Association for External Friendship Inauguration Ceremony (English only)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Speech by CE at Hong Kong Association for External Friendship Inauguration Ceremony (English only) 
    Ladies and gentlemen, when I was making preparation for this occasion, my colleagues told me that because we are talking about friendship, I should make three speeches, one in Cantonese, one is Putonghua and one in English. Indeed, Hong Kong focuses on efficiency and good use of time. For your benefit, don’t worry, I am going to speak in English because this is an occasion for external friendship.
     
         Honorable Commissioner Cui Jianchun (Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region), Secretary General Sun Xueqing (Secretary General of the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries), Professor Priscilla Leung (Founding President and Chief Executive Officer of the Hong Kong Association for External Friendship), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
     
         Good afternoon. I am pleased to join you today to celebrate the inauguration of the Hong Kong Association for External Friendship.
     
         Today, we will witness not only the beginning of an association, but also the initiation of a new force for global dialogue. A new impetus that facilitates people-to-people exchange, and cultivates friendships.
     
         Because where better to make friends, and keep them, than in Hong Kong?
     
         Under the unique “one country, two systems” principle, Hong Kong is the only world city that enjoys both the China advantage and the global advantage.
     
         We boast a long tradition of the rule of law, and have a common law system similar to many global financial centres. We are home to five of the world’s top 100 universities, and the world’s four most international universities – they not only help to nurture a workforce that’s bilingual and well-versed with both Mainland and international practices, but also attract a world of students, researchers, and teachers to our city.
     
         Our simple and transparent tax regime, world-class infrastructure, and the free flow of information, capital, goods and people, make it easy to work, study, or simply live here. To add to all that, our superb location means we’re just a five-hour flight from half of the world’s population.
     
         China, our country, supports Hong Kong in deepening international engagement, putting a primacy on co-operation, regionally and globally – in business, trade, finance, education, culture and every other area that governments, companies and peoples can come together for mutually rewarding opportunities.
     
         The HKSAR (Hong Kong Special Administrative Region) Government is dedicated to boosting Hong Kong’s relations with different economies. And the results have been recognised by international investors and corporations.
     
         A week ago, an international newspaper published an article that analysed Hong Kong’s thriving stock market, which ranks first, globally, in IPO fundraising so far this year.
     
         It noted that institutional investors are returning, adding: “Hong Kong continues to hold appeal as a gateway for Chinese capital and a bridge for international investors seeking exposure to Chinese growth”. Noting that this role of Hong Kong “remains difficult to replicate”, it added that to dismiss our rebound is “to overlook the changing dynamics under way”. I think it describes it perfectly.
     
         Yes, in these times of economic uncertainties, Hong Kong remains a financial harbour wide open to the world, and a world of free and unfettered trade. All thanks to the “one country, two systems” principle, and Hong Kong’s unique role as a “super connector” and “super value-adder” in building bridges among different economies.
     
         I am delighted to note that the Hong Kong Association for External Friendship is committed to becoming a bridging connector in its own vital way.
     
         The Association is formed under the guidance of the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, and focuses on cultivating “four friendships” – with cities, associations, organisations and individuals. That, ladies and gentlemen, is the essence of soft power and a critical complement to official diplomatic channels.
     
         Diplomacy, both public and international, helped inspire the success of last December’s Global University Presidents and Leaders Summit – a landmark event organised by the Association that brought together university leaders from around the world in Hong Kong.
     
         Today’s ceremony symbolises a deeper commitment to building bridges between Hong Kong and the world. Creating an organisation, and a way forward, based on dialogue, mutual understanding and collaboration.
     
         In today’s complex and rapidly evolving global landscape, where co-operation is no longer a given, we must unite and remain open to dialogue, to maintaining friendly relations with different places that are eager to pursue development, very much like us. That makes the Association, and its mission, more crucial than ever. For that, I am grateful – grateful to its founder, Professor Priscilla Leung, and all those who have contributed to its establishment.
     
         The HKSAR Government looks forward to working with you, to empowering the Hong Kong Association for External Friendship to become a dynamic force for international goodwill and co-operation.
     
         Ladies and gentlemen, for those of you who checked the weather, you may notice a tropical storm is on its way to this part of the globe and could bring us some rainy and windy days.
     
         To those who ask, “Can bridges survive storms?” We always point to our harbour. For centuries, typhoons have battered our shores. But Hong Kong, long a free port, has always provided a safe shelter for ships, seafarers and traders. Even in the harshest of storms and headwinds, Hong Kong will remain a safe and stress-tested harbour. We may not be able to change the global current, but united, we can sail together and chart our common course of co-operation and friendship.
     
         Together, we will realise a global community of shared future, rooted in economic and cultural harmony and people-to-people connectivity. A flourishing and sustainable future for each and everyone of us.
     
         Thank you very much.
    Issued at HKT 15:41

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • PM Modi announces Rs 2 lakh ex-gratia for Sambhal accident victims’ kin

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday expressed grief over the tragic road accident in Sambhal district of Uttar Pradesh on Friday in which eight people of a marriage party, including the groom, were killed. The PM announced financial assistance for the families of those killed in the mishap and for the injured.

    A post shared by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) on X, stated: “Deeply saddened by the loss of lives in an accident in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones in the mishap. May the injured recover soon. An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each deceased. The injured would be given Rs. 50,000: PM.”

    The tragic incident occurred on Friday evening in the Junawai Police Station area of Sambhal district in Uttar Pradesh.

    A Bolero vehicle being driven at high-speed lost control and rammed into the wall of Janata Inter College in Junawai village. The impact was so severe that the vehicle overturned, killing five people on the spot, including the groom.

    Following the accident, five critically injured passengers were referred to Aligarh for treatment. However, three of them, identified as Ravi, Komal, and Madhu, succumbed to their injuries on the way as all three were in a critical condition, bringing the total death toll to eight. The remaining two injured are currently undergoing treatment at Aligarh Medical College.

    According to police, all the victims were residents of Hargovindpur village under Junawai police station limits and were en route to Bilsi in Budaun district as part of a wedding procession.

    What was meant to be a joyous occasion turned into a horrific tragedy for the families involved. Locals say the Bolero was being driven at high speed, and the driver reportedly lost control before crashing into the college wall.

    On receiving information about the accident, Sambhal Superintendent of Police Krishna Kumar Vishnoi and Additional SP Anukriti Sharma rushed to the scene. The vehicle was completely mangled and had to be cut open with the help of a JCB machine to rescue the trapped passengers.

    (IANS)

  • PM Modi announces Rs 2 lakh ex-gratia for Sambhal accident victims’ kin

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday expressed grief over the tragic road accident in Sambhal district of Uttar Pradesh on Friday in which eight people of a marriage party, including the groom, were killed. The PM announced financial assistance for the families of those killed in the mishap and for the injured.

    A post shared by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) on X, stated: “Deeply saddened by the loss of lives in an accident in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones in the mishap. May the injured recover soon. An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each deceased. The injured would be given Rs. 50,000: PM.”

    The tragic incident occurred on Friday evening in the Junawai Police Station area of Sambhal district in Uttar Pradesh.

    A Bolero vehicle being driven at high-speed lost control and rammed into the wall of Janata Inter College in Junawai village. The impact was so severe that the vehicle overturned, killing five people on the spot, including the groom.

    Following the accident, five critically injured passengers were referred to Aligarh for treatment. However, three of them, identified as Ravi, Komal, and Madhu, succumbed to their injuries on the way as all three were in a critical condition, bringing the total death toll to eight. The remaining two injured are currently undergoing treatment at Aligarh Medical College.

    According to police, all the victims were residents of Hargovindpur village under Junawai police station limits and were en route to Bilsi in Budaun district as part of a wedding procession.

    What was meant to be a joyous occasion turned into a horrific tragedy for the families involved. Locals say the Bolero was being driven at high speed, and the driver reportedly lost control before crashing into the college wall.

    On receiving information about the accident, Sambhal Superintendent of Police Krishna Kumar Vishnoi and Additional SP Anukriti Sharma rushed to the scene. The vehicle was completely mangled and had to be cut open with the help of a JCB machine to rescue the trapped passengers.

    (IANS)

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: World News in Brief: Sudan refugees, aid for Syrian returnees, MERS alert in Saudi Arabia, Venezuela urged to end secret detentions

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI

    The UN refugee agency, UNHCR, reported on Wednesday that most of the new arrivals are women and children.

    Many have come from Zamzam camp and the city of El Fasher, locations targeted by paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, who’ve been fighting forces of the military government for more than two years.

    In Chad, the high numbers of those arriving are putting significant strain on overwhelmed resources.

    Exhausted and victimised

    Aid teams say that many refugees arrive exhausted after walking for days because they are unable to afford transport.

    They report being victims of targeted attacks, looting and sexual violence.

    Numerous children have been injured, families separated, and others remain missing, the refugee agency said.

    Immediate needs in Chad include shelter, food, medical care and psychological support but the $409 million refugee response appeal is only 20 per cent funded.

    Syria’s returnees desperately need help to start over

    Syrians trying to rebuild their lives in their war-torn country urgently need the support of the rest of the world to help them start again, UN aid agencies said on Wednesday.

    Hopes rose this week in Damascus following Donald Trump’s move to end punitive sanctions – but after more than 13 years of civil war that ended with the fall of the Assad regime last December, many communities today face a range of basic problems.

    These include unreliable access to electricity, clean water and healthcare.

    Records destroyed

    The destruction of public records is also preventing returnees from accessing essential services or claiming housing and land rights, according to the UN migration agency, IOM.

    Its Director-General, Amy Pope, insisted Syrians were resilient and innovative but that they needed help, now. “Enabling (them) to return to a country that is on the path to stability and progress is critical for the country’s future,” she insisted.

    A new IOM report from more than 1,100 communities across Syria found that work is scarce, partly because farming and markets are still struggling to recover.

    Shelter reconstruction is also needed urgently, while unresolved property issues continue to prevent people from rejoining their communities.

    Since January 2024, the UN agency has recorded more than 1.3 million returnees previously displaced within Syria, in addition to nearly 730,000 arrivals from abroad.

    WHO issues warning over deadly MERS outbreak in Saudi Arabia

    A recent outbreak of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) in Saudi Arabia has raised concerns after two people died from the disease between March and April.

    The World Health Organization (WHO) has released updated guidelines to help contain the outbreak, which has seen nine confirmed cases – seven of them in the capital, Riyadh. Several of those infected were healthcare workers who caught the virus from a patient.

    MERS is caused by a zoonotic coronavirus, from the same family of viruses as COVID-19. While WHO estimates the fatality rate to be around 36 per cent, the true figure may be lower, as mild cases often go undiagnosed.

    Despite the recent cases, the risk of wider spread remains moderate at both the regional and global levels, according to WHO.

    MERS is primarily carried by dromedary camels and can be passed to humans through direct or indirect contact with infected animals.

    Human-to-human transmission usually happens in healthcare settings, through respiratory droplets or close contact.

    No vaccine, no cure

    Much like COVID-19, MERS can range from no symptoms at all to severe respiratory illness, including acute respiratory distress — and in some cases, death. There’s currently no vaccine or specific treatment.

    To stop the virus from spreading, WHO urges hospitals and clinics to step up infection prevention and control measures, especially where suspected cases are being treated.

    Since MERS was first identified in 2012, it has caused 858 deaths across 27 countries in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia.

    Call for Venezuela to end secret detention of political opponents

    Top independent human rights experts have urged the Venezuelan authorities to stop the reported practice of holding political opponents incommunicado.

    In an alert on Wednesday, they insisted that these “targeted detentions” were illegal and amounted to enforced disappearance, a major human rights violation if proved and potentially an international crime.

    They maintained that using secret detention was a deliberate strategy by the State “to silence opposition figures…and to instill fear among the population”.

    Lack of legal protection

    The mission pointed to a widespread lack of “effective judicial protection” for civil society in Venezuela and accused State security forces of colluding with the Public Prosecutor’s Office.

    The services allegedly responsible for detentions include the national intelligence service, the national guard and military counterintelligence.

    The mission’s independent rights experts also maintained that criminal courts and the Constitutional Chamber of the Supreme Tribunal of Justice were also “complicit” by ensuring that the alleged crimes went unpunished.

    The Fact-Finding Mission on Venezuela was created by the Human Rights Council in 2019; its members are not UN staff and they work in an independent capacity.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Syrians heading home find few of the basics needed to survive

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI

    Hopes rose last week in Damascus when fuel prices dropped instantly following Donald Trump’s move to end punitive sanctions.

    But after more than 13 years of civil war that ended with the fall of the Assad regime last December, ordinary Syrians face an exhausting list of other problems.

    These include an absence of housing – caused by bomb damage on a scale with Gaza – unreliable access to electricity, clean water, healthcare and work.

    Refugee agency call

    Since last December, half a million Syrians have returned home, many for the first time since the war began, according to the UN refugee agency, UNHCR.  

    “We must ensure that people who return can stay and thrive: that is also why the lifting of sanctions is crucial, as reconstruction is urgently needed,” said High Commissioner Filippo Grandi, in an online message.

    Today, transitional authorities govern Syria under President Ahmad al-Sharaa.  

    ‘Destroyed at all levels’

    But the once-prosperous country remains scarred – “the infrastructure in Syria is almost completely destroyed at all levels,” said Hail Khalaf, Officer-in-Charge for Syria at the UN International Organization for Migration (IOM).

    Mr. Khalaf, who spoke to UN News from the capital Damascus where electricity only comes on for four hours a day, confirmed that the protracted war had impacted Syrian society in its entirety – not least education.

    “The impact of the removal of US sanctions on Syria was observed very quickly on the daily lives of Syrians,” he said. “There was an instant drop in fuel prices in Syria the moment the removal of sanctions was announced.”

    “We hope that the American government will expedite the removal of the Caesar Act,” he stressed, referring to the sanctions package against the former Syrian Government signed into law by the first Trump administration in 2019.

    Dilapidated economy 

    Those returning to Syria and looking for a job in the agricultural sector in particular are confronted with an industry in shambles, IOM said in a report.

    Farmers make up the great majority of those who were internally displaced by the fighting to camps. Most – 88 per cent – say they cannot work the soil again, as most farms are either operating at half-capacity or unable to function at all, according to IOM’s Displacement Tracking Matrix.

    “The country is exhausted, and the economy is also exhausted,” explained Mr. Khalaf.

    Today, more than 90 per cent of Syria’s population lives below the poverty line as of December 2024, according to UNHCR data.

    The war uprooted around 7.4 million people inside Syria and at least six million are refugees, mainly in neighboring countries including Türkiye, Lebanon and Jordan, the UN agency noted.

    Working at a loss

    The national currency – the Syrian lira – has been exponentially devalued by the conflict.

    Before the war, one US dollar was equivalent to 50 Syrian lira. Today it is worth about 9,000 Syrian lira – leaving livelihoods in disarray.  

    “Most Syrians do not earn enough,” Mr. Khalaf explained. “In the public sector, most employees earn approximately $35 to $40 a month, which is not even enough for transportation between work and home.”

    Missing paper trail

    Gaps in civil documentation also complicate people’s ability to claim housing and land rights.

    Damaged public infrastructure has also fuelled outbreaks of waterborne diseases, vaccine-preventable illnesses and malnutrition, aid teams have warned.

    “Syrians are resilient and innovative, but they need significant help to rebuild their communities and their lives,” insisted IOM Director General Amy Pope.  

    In a bid to help, UN agencies including IOM are working with the Syrian Government to “find a formula for action” and “sustainable solutions” for all returnees so that they can rebuild their lives again.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Over 60 per cent of the Arab world still outside the banking system

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI

    Even more impressively, the number of Egyptian women with an account increased by 260 per cent, though gender gaps do remain.

    But how you widen financial inclusion overall is a question the Arab region is currently grappling with.

    A new report from the UN Economic and Social Commission in Western Asia (UNESCWA) published on Thursday highlights the challenge.

    Nearly 64 per cent of adults in the 22 countries in the Arab region are still without an account – or “unbanked” – a higher number than all other regions of the world and significantly higher than the 24 per cent global average.

    The report warns that this level of financial exclusion will negatively impact economic opportunities and the region’s ability to meet Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.

    “The Arab region cannot afford to treat financial services as a luxury. Without inclusive finance, we cannot hope to lift people out of poverty, support small businesses, or achieve equitable growth,” said ESCWA’s Mario Jales, lead author of the report.

    ‘The digital divide within the divide’

    The report finds that women and disabled people have even less access to financial services – only 29 per cent of women and 21 per cent of disabled people in the region have an account.

    Similarly, rural communities and younger and older people also experience lower rates of inclusion in the banking system.

    The report also highlighted that access to loans for small and medium-sized businesses is worryingly low, reducing entrepreneurial and other income-producing activities.

    In addition to gender disparities, there are variations within the Arab region – 81 per cent of people in low-income countries do not have access to an account in comparison to 67 per cent in middle-income countries and 23 per cent in the high-income bracket. 

    © FAO/Pedro Costa Gomes

    As of 2024, 69 percent of Egyptian women have bank accounts, a large increase from 2016.

    Models of success

    Given that regional rates of financial inclusion remain so low, how do countries work to improve them?

    The basis of Egypt’s success was the implementation of a comprehensive national strategy to promote financial inclusion, a strategy which actively worked to target underserved communities, ESCWA points out.

    For example, in Egypt, 22 per cent of ATMs in the country have now been equipped with accessibility features including brighter lighting and Braille keyboards.

    Other countries in the region have also implemented national strategies which include targeted initiatives.

    Jordan, which has the second widest gender gap in the region, implemented a Microfund for Women to provide loans for income-generating activities. There are now 60 branches across the country, serving 133,000 borrowers, 95 per cent of whom are women.

    Moreover, some banks in the region have worked to implement financial literacy classes and others have worked to tailor their services to underserved communities including by lowering minimum deposits.

    The report concludes that an expansion of all these activities – national policymaking which targets underserved communities and private bank activities which lower barriers to entry and support financial literacy – will be essential in improving financial inclusion.

    “The path forward exists, but it requires political will, targeted investment and a whole-of-society approach,” the report concludes.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Hundreds of thousands of Afghans forced back into danger, says UNHCR

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

    According to the UN refugee agency (UNHCR), over 250,000 Afghans returned in April alone – among them, 96,000 who were forcibly deported. The agency voiced particular alarm over the fate of women and girls, who face increasing repression under Taliban rule.

    The large-scale returns are putting even greater pressure on already stretched humanitarian resources and worsening the plight of millions struggling to survive.

    “They face increasing restrictions in terms of access to employment, education and freedom of movement,” said agency spokesperson Babar Baloch.

    “We keep telling the governments of Iran and Pakistan that returns to Afghanistan must be voluntary, safe and dignified,” he continued.

    Aside from women and girls, forcibly returned human rights activists and journalists as well as ethnic or religious minority groups are among those who face the biggest dangers back in Afghanistan.

    Massive needs

    These risks are further compounded by rising needs, where half the population relies on humanitarian assistance. Since 2023, more than 3.5 million people have returned to the country.

    Such high numbers of returnees only increase the risk of further internal displacement and attempts to reach Europe, Mr. Baloch noted.

    UNHCR is seeking $75 billion to assist returnees and help stabilize the region. Afghans represented the largest group of irregular arrivals from Asia Pacific to Europe in 2024, at more than four in 10.

    Additional funds will allow UNHCR in Afghanistan to provide returnees with urgent assistance including access to services, livelihoods, reintegration services, travel and financial assistance – “with emphasis on reaching women and girls,” Mr. Baloch explained.

    The agency also plans to address immediate protection needs and enhance reception capacity.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • Govt urges use of BIS-certified helmets to ensure road safety

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    In a renewed push to enhance road safety, the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution has urged consumers across India to use only helmets certified by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). The appeal comes amid growing concerns over the widespread sale of substandard and non-compliant helmets, which significantly undermine rider safety.

    According to the Department of Consumer Affairs, over 21 crore two-wheelers are currently on Indian roads, making helmet safety a critical public concern. While wearing helmets is mandated under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, officials emphasize that only quality-certified helmets offer reliable protection. A Quality Control Order in effect since 2021 mandates BIS certification (ISI mark under IS 4151:2015) for all protective helmets sold for two-wheeler use.

    In the financial year 2024–25, BIS conducted more than 30 search-and-seizure operations, testing over **500 helmet samples. One major crackdown in Delhi led to the seizure of over 2,500 non-compliant helmets from nine manufacturers operating with expired or cancelled licences. An additional 500 substandard helmets were confiscated from roadside vendors and retail outlets.

    Currently, 176 manufacturers across India hold valid BIS licences for protective helmets. Despite this, a large number of uncertified helmets continue to be sold, especially in unregulated markets. The Department has warned that such products pose serious safety risks and contribute to fatalities in road accidents.

    To combat this, the Department has written to District Collectors and Magistrates across the country, urging them to launch special enforcement drives against non-compliant manufacturers and vendors. The initiative is being integrated with ongoing road safety campaigns for broader impact.

    In Delhi NCR and other regions, the campaign has shown promising results. BIS branch offices are also working closely with local administrations and police departments to ensure effective enforcement.

    Earlier this year, the BIS Chennai office conducted an awareness drive in collaboration with local traffic authorities, distributing certified helmets and promoting the importance of compliance through roadshows and media campaigns.

    To help consumers make informed purchases, BIS has introduced new features on its BIS Care App and official portal, allowing users to verify manufacturer licenses and lodge complaints against non-compliant products. Additionally, the Quality Connect campaign and ‘Manak Mitra’ volunteers are spreading awareness at the grassroots level about the significance of ISI-marked helmets.

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China, France agree to promote multilateralism and bring more certainty to the world

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    PARIS, July 5 (Xinhua) — French President Emmanuel Macron on Friday met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, calling for jointly advancing multilateralism and strengthening coordination in combating hegemonic conflicts and bloc confrontation.

    During the meeting at the Elysee Palace, E. Macron asked Wang Yi to convey his best wishes and friendly greetings to Chinese President Xi Jinping.

    The French leader noted that France and China have broad consensus on many important issues, including support for multilateralism and respect for international law. Both countries are permanent members of the UN Security Council and bear special responsibilities in the context of increasing uncertainty and instability in the world.

    According to him, the French side hopes to strengthen political coordination with China on international economic, financial and global governance issues, as well as jointly counter global challenges, inject vitality into multilateralism and prevent the world from plunging into hegemonic conflicts and bloc confrontation.

    E. Macron stressed that on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations, the European Union (EU) and China must make a strategic choice to become predictable and reliable friends and partners for each other. France attaches great importance to the development of French-Chinese relations and welcomes increased Chinese investment to build more balanced economic and trade ties.

    Wang Yi conveyed warm greetings from Xi Jinping to Macron and noted that China is willing to work with France to implement the important consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries, pave the way for future high-level contacts and deepen all-round cooperation.

    He stressed that China and France are comprehensive strategic partners and two major stabilizing forces in the world. The more turbulent the world is, the more the strategic value of China-France relations is emphasized, the Chinese diplomat added.

    China is willing to strengthen strategic communication and joint cooperation with France, jointly uphold multilateralism, oppose unilateral pressure and resist bloc confrontation, so as to bring more certainty and predictability to a changing and unstable world, promote equitable and orderly multipolarity as well as inclusive and win-win economic globalization, Wang said.

    China is committed to deepening mutually beneficial cooperation with France and hopes that the French side will create more favorable and fair conditions for Chinese companies to invest and operate in France, he added.

    China and the EU have resolved the issue of brandy imports through friendly consultations, Wang said. He also hoped that France, as a key EU country, would urge the European side to properly handle the trade and economic disputes between China and the EU and actively respond to China’s concerns.

    The parties also exchanged views on the Ukrainian crisis, the situation in the Gaza Strip, the Iranian nuclear issue and other issues. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI China: German chancellor meets Chinese FM in Berlin

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

    BERLIN, July 4 — German Chancellor Friedrich Merz met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi here on Friday, pledging to work with China to uphold openness and mutual benefit, promote fair trade, and jointly address global crises and challenges.

    Merz said that such efforts serve the interests of both countries, citing the positive development of Germany-China relations and sustained progress in cooperation across various fields including politics, and economy and trade.

    Merz also reaffirmed the new German government’s adherence to the one-China policy.

    Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said that Chinese President Xi Jinping and German Chancellor Merz had recently held an important phone conversation, which has provided strategic guidance and political assurance for the development of bilateral relations.

    As a mature and successful relationship between two major countries, China-Germany ties are not targeted at, dependent on, or subject to any third party, Wang said, adding that such relationship enjoys strong internal momentum and demonstrates a high degree of stability.

    China appreciates the new German government’s constructive and pragmatic approach to advancing bilateral ties, Wang noted, adding that China stands ready to maintain close high-level exchanges and make full use of various dialogue mechanisms to promote the sustained, sound and stable development of China-Germany relations.

    This, he said, will not only serve the interests of both countries, but also contribute to the well-being of Europe and the broader international community.

    Wang also said that China is pleased to see Germany develop and prosper and play a greater role in Europe and the world.

    He expressed confidence that the new German government will take a positive view of China’s development, adhere to a rational and pragmatic policy towards China, earnestly respect China’s core interests, support China in achieving national reunification, just as China unconditionally supported German reunification back then, and continue to strictly stick to the one-China principle.

    China is committed to building a new system for a higher-level open economy, and its door to the world will only open wider, said Wang, adding that China is ready to share its market opportunities with Germany and jointly create new prospects for development.

    During the talks, the two sides also exchanged views on Ukraine crisis and agreed to maintain strategic communication to promote a peaceful resolution.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: UNHCR forced to make deep cuts, despite rising needs worldwide

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI

    This will entail cutting just under half of all senior positions at the agency’s Geneva headquarters and regional bureaux. 

    Around 3,500 permanent staff posts have been discontinued, hundreds of temporary staff positions have been terminated, and some offices have been downsized or closed worldwide.

    According to the report, decisions on where to cut costs were guided by the priority to maintain operations in regions with the most urgent refugee needs.

    Financial realities

    The announcement follows a warning in March from UNHCR that severe funding cuts were putting millions of refugee lives at risk, with immediate and devastating consequences.

    The agency anticipates it will end the year with available funding at roughly the same level as a decade ago – despite the number of refugees forced to flee having nearly doubled in that time to over 122 million.

    “In light of difficult financial realities, UNHCR is compelled to reduce the overall scale of its operations,” said Filippo Grandi, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. “We will focus our efforts on activities that have the greatest impact for refugees, supported by streamlined headquarters and regional bureau structures.” 

    ‘Unshakeable’ commitment to refugees

    Despite the prioritisation of refugee needs, key programmes – including financial assistance to vulnerable families, health, education, and water and sanitation – have been significantly impacted. 

    In response, UNHCR is coordinating with UN partners, aid groups and host countries to mitigate the impact on those who rely on its support by streamlining operations, exploring new models and utilising technology to enhance efficiency.

    “Even as we face painful cuts and lose so many dedicated colleagues, our commitment to refugees remains unshakeable,” said Mr. Grandi. 

    “Although resources are scarcer and our capacity to deliver is reduced, we will continue to work hard to respond to emergencies, protect the rights of refugees and pursue solutions.”  

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Development is ‘the first line of defence against conflict,’ Guterres tells Security Council

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI

    Ambassadors met to debate how poverty, inequality, and underdevelopment are fuelling conflict and instability, at a time when hostilities are increasing and demand for humanitarian aid is rising as resources dwindle.  

    Every dollar spent on prevention could save up to $103 in conflict-related costs, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF). 

    Sustainable development critical

    Conflicts are proliferating and lasting longer, said Mr. Guterres. At the same time the global economy is slowing and trade tensions are rising, as aid budgets are being slashed while military spending soars. 

    He warned that if current trends continue, two thirds of the world’s poor will live in conflict-affected or fragile countries by the end of this decade. 

    “The message is clear,” he said.  “The farther a country is from sustainable and inclusive development, the closer it is to instability, and even conflict.”

    UN Photo/Evan Schneider

    Secretary-General António Guterres briefs the Security Council meeting on Poverty, Underdevelopment, and Conflict.

    Give peace a (fighting) chance

    The Secretary-General highlighted how the UN has worked to advance the three pillars of peace, development and human rights.  

    These efforts began with its establishment 80 years ago and continue today, “guided by the simple principle that prevention is the best cure for instability and conflict, and there is no better preventive measure than investing in development,” he said.

    “Development gives peace a fighting chance. It’s the first line of defence against conflict. But right now, we’re losing ground,” he said, noting that “the engine of development is sputtering.”

    World falling short

    Currently, two-thirds of the targets under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are lagging 10 years after adoption. 

    “The world is falling short by over $4 trillion annually in the resources developing countries need to deliver on these promises by 2030,” he added.

    Furthermore, “developing countries are being battered and bruised by limited fiscal space, crushing debt burdens and skyrocketing prices.”

    Fix the ‘engine’

    The Secretary-General pointed to the fourth Conference on Financing for Development, which begins next week in Spain, as an important moment “to fix and strengthen this essential engine.”

    He called for renewed commitments towards securing public and private finance for the areas of greatest need, providing urgent relief for debt-laden countries, and reforming the outdated global financial architecture.

    The Council debate “could not be more prescient,” said Kanni Wignaraja, the UN Development Programme’s (UNDP) Assistant Secretary-General and Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific.

    Break the cycle

    Global human development has stalled just as violent conflicts have surged to levels not seen in eight decades, she said, before presenting three priorities for investment to help break the cycle, including protecting household economies.

    “In fragile settings, where peace and security have been shattered, development that goes directly to the local level becomes the first line of peoples’ defence and survival. And their hope for recovery,” she said.

    “From these local economies – where livelihoods are restored, water and electricity can flow again, women’s businesses in particular reopen, farmers can trade food, and there is basic finance to allow markets to stay afloat – from this, comes the resources to build back broken capabilities and resilience.”

    Address systemic imbalances

    The Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission, Mahmoud Youssouf Ali, recalled how the continent loses billions of dollars annually to conflict, which could be channeled into schools, hospitals, infrastructure and innovation.

    He said the international community must also acknowledge that poverty and underdevelopment “are not confined within national borders” but are global challenges that require global response.

    “If we are to uphold international peace and security, we must address the systemic imbalances – economic, political, and institutional – that continue to fuel deprivation, exclusion, and instability across regions,” he said.

    In this regard, the AU called for enhanced support to African-led peace operations, particularly those deployed in regions where poverty and underdevelopment are deeply entrenched. 

    Collective action required

    The debate was convened by Guyana, which holds the rotating Council presidency this month.

    The country’s Foreign Minister, Hugh Todd, remarked that with the world “at a critical juncture where the interlinkages between peace, security and development have never been more pronounced,” collective and decisive action is required.

    He cautioned against “prioritizing only political solutions in conflicts where poverty and underdevelopment feature prominently,” as creating conditions for socio-economic stability and well-being are also critical for peace.

    Mr. Todd urged countries to address issues such as lack of access to education, underemployment, exclusion, and greater participation of women and youth.

    “Currently, the global youth population is the highest in history, with most young people concentrated in developing countries,” he said.

    “For us to harness their full potential, they must be given adequate economic opportunities and be involved in decision making on peace and security.” 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –