NewzIntel.com

Category: Europe

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Scene is set for outdoor theatre at Abbey Pumping Station

    Source: City of Leicester

    THE GROUNDS of Leicester’s Abbey Pumping Station will become the setting for an open-air production of a classic 18th century comedy of manners next week.

    Sheridan’s ‘The Rivals’ will be performed by the Rain or Shine Theatre Company – whatever the weather – at 7pm on Friday 18 July.

    The play has delighted audiences for more than 250 years, featuring a cast of characters embroiled in a whirlwind plot of comic confusion, daring duels and romantic entanglement.

    Set in the spa town of Bath, this brand new adaptation combines Sheridan’s masterpiece with Rain or Shine’s fast and furious comic flair.

    Tickets for the family-friendly farce are now on sale and priced at £17.34 for adults and £8.67 for those aged 15 and under (price includes booking fee).

    Seating is not provided, so ticket holders are invited to bring their own picnic blankets or low-backed chairs for the performance.

    For full information and to book tickets, please go to leicestermuseums.org

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: ‘Ultra-wealthy and large corporations must pay their fair share’ – Plaid Cymru

    Source: Party of Wales

    Liz Saville Roberts urges UK Government to implement fairer taxation system instead of policies that disproportionately hit Wales 

    Plaid Cymru’s Westminster Leader, Liz Saville Roberts MP, has today (Monday 7 July) urged the UK Government to commit to creating a fairer taxation system whereby the ultra-wealthy and large corporations pay their fair share. 

    Ms Saville Roberts argued that implementing a wealth tax on assets over £10 million would be a fairer policy. 

    A 2% tax on assets over £10 million could raise up to £24 billion every year. 

    She also argued that the Government could clamp down on tax evasion as well as end government subsidies for oil and gas giants. 

    In addition to raising Employer National Insurance Contributions, the Chancellor Rachel Reeves MP, has proposed a number of cuts in her first year in office including the Winter Fuel Payment and disability benefits.  

    Liz Saville Roberts highlighted how these policies “disproportionately hit Welsh communities” but suggested alternatives in order to raise the necessary funds for the Treasury. 

     

    Speaking in the House of Commons, Liz Saville Roberts MP said: 

    “Plans to plunder disability benefits and the decision to hike National insurance are examples of policies which disproportionately hit Welsh communities. 

    “Instead, we need fair policies like a wealth tax on assets over £10 million, ending government subsidies for the oil and gas giants and clamping down on tax evasion. 

    “So when will the Government’s fiscal rules enshrine fairness where the ultra-wealthy and large corporations pay their fair share?” 

     

    In his response, the Treasury’s Chief Secretary, Darren Jones MP said: 

    “I think the Honourable Lady has missed the fact that this Government has changed the non-dom tax status – these are the wealthiest people in our country for many years – VAT on private schools and it’s more expensive now to fly a private jet than under the former Prime Minister under the Conservative Party opposite and as a consequence of the decisions the Chancellor took at the Budget last year, we’ve given the largest real terms increase in spending to Wales since devolution began and as a consequence of our reforms to the Bill coming on Wednesday we’ve increased the base rate of Universal Credit for the first time in many, many years.” 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Labour must stop glamorising relationship with Trump

    Source: Scottish Greens

    08 Jul 2025 External Affairs

    Starmer must stop copying Trump’s homework and stand up for real values.

    More in External Affairs

    Labour and Keir Starmer must stop cosying up to Donald Trump and instead stand for the values of democracy and human rights, say the Scottish Greens.

    The call came from Scottish Green MSP Maggie Chapman, after Starmer opened up to the BBC about how he and Donald Trump bonded over “shared family values”.

    In 2023 Donald Trump was found guilty of 34 felonies after he paid $130,000 in hush money to cover up an affair with an American porn star. And he has dozens of sexual assault allegations against him dating back to the 1970’s.

    Maggie said:

    “Under Donald Trump, America is in turmoil. His administration is sending innocent people to be tortured in foreign countries, he’s just passed a bill that will strip 17 million Americans of their healthcare, he’s begun an unprecedented transfer of wealth from the poor to his billionaire supporters, and he has openly called for the ethnic cleansing of Gaza.

    “For a UK Prime Minister to sit there and talk about his shared values with this President should set off alarm bells in every institution and every voter in this country. Cosying up to a racist, misogynistic, climate-wrecking authoritarian like Donald Trump is the last thing we should be doing.

    “While values may be a flexible concept to Keir Starmer – if you don’t like his values he, opportunistically, has others – it must not be for our country. If we don’t have our values we have nothing.

    “Already Downing Street is copying Trump’s homework by pushing through drastic cuts to disability benefits in order to boost spending on of war and defence. Rather than working to overcome 14 years of Tory austerity and rebuild the country, Starmer is doubling down on the same disastrous policies that got us into the mess we’re in.

    “And Labour continues to echo the White House by refusing to end their active participation in the ongoing genocide of Palestinians in Gaza. We see the death-toll mounting daily. We watch as innocent civilians are shot or blown up while waiting for food inside barbed wire enclosures. Keir Starmer can’t even bring himself to call out these atrocities, never mind end the UK’s training and arming of those perpetrating them.

    “Are these the family values he speaks of so fondly? Is this really the path we want to follow? Starmer must end this pathetic grovelling to the US President and begin standing up for real values – democracy, human rights, and a fair economy that improves living standards for everyone.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Green plans would wipe out millions in Council Tax debt

    Source: Scottish Greens

    08 Jul 2025 Finance

    It is time to stop the clock on cruel historical debt collection.

    More in Finance

    Decades-old Council Tax debts worth hundreds of millions of pounds will be written off if MSPs agree to changes proposed by Scottish Greens finance spokesperson Ross Greer.
     
    The proposals, tabled as amendments to the Housing Bill, would end the current situation where Council Tax debts in Scotland are chased for four times as long as other forms of debt before being written off.
     
    Data from The Telegraph published in March this year showed that almost £2 billion of Council Tax arrears have been racked up by Scottish households since the Council Tax system was introduced in 1993.
     
    This change would reduce the time limit for Council Tax arrears, at which point the debt is written off and collection efforts are stopped. The current limit for Scottish Council Tax debt is twenty years, despite English, Welsh and Northern Irish Council Tax arrears being written off after just six years.
     
    The twenty year clock also resets every time someone acknowledges or tries to pay off their debts, effectively meaning that debts are held and pursued permanently, even when there is no prospect of them being paid off.
     
    Most other forms of debt in Scotland are subject to a five year cut-off for collection efforts.
     
    If passed, this proposal would effectively cancel any Council Tax debts built up before 2020. Analysis by the Scottish Greens suggests that the move would take hundreds of millions of pounds of debt off of the shoulders of low-income and vulnerable households.
     
    It would also tackle the problem of vulnerable people not seeking help from their local council for other issues in their lives due to fear that they will be chased for debts they cannot afford to pay off.
     
    Anti-poverty campaigners including Aberlour say that current council and government debt collectors “trap families in a cycle of poverty, through seized benefits, missed payments, new loans and extortionate interest.”
     
    Ross said:

    “We need to break the decades-old cycle of poverty and debt. Scotland’s system for collecting Council tax debts is far harsher than those in the rest of the UK and that needs to end. My proposals would give relief to people who are often in no position to pay back these decades-old debts, letting them get their lives and finances back on track.

    “At the moment, the 20-year clock resets each time someone attempts to pay off or even acknowledge their debt, meaning some councils are still chasing debts from when this system started in 1993. That’s before I was even born.

    “And the fear of having bailiffs at the door means vulnerable people aren’t going to their councils for help when they really need it.

    “Council tax debt is one of the biggest drivers of Scotland’s public debt crisis, locking thousands of vulnerable people into cycles of poverty which they can’t break out of.

    “If we want to end poverty for good and make Scotland a better place to live, we have to end the systems that keep people stuck in cycles of unpayable debts. It is time to wipe out these decades-old Council Tax debts.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI China: China puts rookies to test at World Universiade in Germany

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

    China unveiled its 220-member delegation for the Rhine-Ruhr 2025 FISU World University Games in Germany on Tuesday with most of the athletes making their debuts at the global university students gala.

    The 120 athletes will compete in 14 sports across more than 90 disciplines. However, the team will not participate in wheelchair basketball – making its debut as an official Universiade sport – nor in fencing, water polo, or rowing.

    Among the standout athletes are 24-year-old Liang Yushuai, the men’s 68kg taekwondo bronze medalist at the Paris 2024 Olympics, and 21-year-old Shu Heng, who won the men’s long jump gold medal at the Asian Athletics Championships in May.

    Just about 30 athletes competed in the previous edition of the Universiade, held in Chengdu in 2023. The squad has an average age of 21.9, with athletes ranging from 18 to 25 years old.

    All athletes are undergoing a 15-day training camp in preparation for the Games, which will be held from July 16 to 27 across six cities: Berlin, Hagen, Bochum, Duisburg, Essen, and Mulheim an der Ruhr.

    According to Liu Lixin, president of the China Student Sports Federation, Team China sees the event as a platform for promoting friendship and cultural exchange between Chinese youth and their peers from around the world.

    Germany, the host nation, has announced its largest-ever team for what will be the country’s most significant multi-sport event in over half a century.

    Team Germany will aim for medals in all 18 sports. Among its top athletes is 24-year-old Antonia Kinzel, a student at HS Mannheim and the defending FISU Games champion in the women’s discus.

    Also headlining the squad is Elisa Mevius, a rising star from the University of Oregon’s 3×3 basketball team. A gold medalist at the Paris 2024 Games with the German women’s squad, the 21-year-old is now eager to repeat her success on home soil.

    Russian and Belarusian students will compete as neutral athletes in line with FISU guidelines.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UKAEA launches International Fellowships Scheme for fusion

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    UKAEA launches International Fellowships Scheme for fusion

    UKAEA has launched the International Fellowships Scheme to help expand the global talent pool supporting the fusion industry.

    Remote Handling Control Room at UKAEA’s Culham Campus – Image Credit: United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority

    • UKAEA to fund UK-based post-doctoral Fellows in fusion research
    • First collaboration established with Singapore’s Nanyang Technological University
    • Partnership marks a major step forward in advancing global collaboration in fusion research and talent development

    The United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) has launched the International Fellowships Scheme, an initiative to help expand the global talent pool supporting the fusion industry.

    The Scheme is part of the UKAEA’s Fusion Opportunities in Skills, Training, Education and Research (FOSTER) Programme, which aims to train, support, and empower the next generation of professionals, who will help deliver fusion power to the grid.

    The first International Fellowships Scheme partner is Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU), which is ranked among the world’s top 15 universities by the QS World University Rankings.

    The scheme is designed to create high-impact post-doctoral research opportunities through collaborations between UK-based and international institutions. Under this initiative, Fellows will be recruited in complementary pairs, with one Fellow employed and primarily based in the UK, and the other employed and primarily based overseas. Working together in areas of shared interest to help build scientific knowledge across borders and solve key fusion challenges.

    NTU is building on the pilot phase of the scheme and has begun recruiting its first Fellows.

    Nick Walkden, Head of Fusion Skills Operation and Delivery at UKAEA, said:

    As a sector, we have recognised the need to develop the next generation of research leaders for fusion and have launched a programme of international fellowships for post-doctoral candidates to do just this. I’m excited that the first of these exciting opportunities is in collaboration with NTU, which shares our passion and drive, and I look forward to seeing our respective Fellows undertake their exchange programme in coming years.

    Professor Simon Redfern, Dean of the College of Science, NTU Singapore said:

    We are delighted to partner with the UK Atomic Energy Authority on the FOSTER International Fellowships Programme, which aligns with our commitment to advancing frontier research and nurturing global scientific talent in fusion energy. In recent years, our scientists have enjoyed a number of beneficial collaborations with international partners to pioneer innovative approaches in fusion science and decarbonisation. FOSTER marks an important next step.

    This new partnership with UKAEA will further strengthen cross-border research, enhance institutional capabilities, and accelerate our shared ambition to realise clean, sustainable energy through fusion. It also builds on longstanding ties between NTU researchers and their counterparts in the UK, and ensures that this spirit of collaboration continues to grow across future generations of scientists.

    Each fellowship will run for two years and include a minimum of 12 weeks of exchange between host institutions, enabling cross-cultural research experience and skill development. UKAEA will support the UK-based Fellow while the international partner institution will support the internationally employed Fellow.

    Part of the Fusion Futures Programme, FOSTER supports 32 projects with a vision to build a fusion skills ecosystem – with international reach – that can train, develop, and grow the fusion generation who will deliver fusion energy to the grid.

    FOSTER works with likeminded organisations committed to advancing the landscape of fusion science and technology through post-doctoral research opportunities.

    The first cohort of the International Fellowships Scheme with NTU is expected to start in Autumn 2025.

    More information about FOSTER and UKAEA’s International Fellowships Scheme can be found online.

    International organisations interested in pursuing a fellowship, either with UKAEA or another UK-based organisation, or if you have any further questions, please email fusionskills@ukaea.uk

    Updates to this page

    Published 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Ban on controversial NDAs silencing abuse

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Ban on controversial NDAs silencing abuse

    The Employment Rights Bill will ban employers from using non-disclosure agreements that silence workplace harassment and abuse.

    • Non-disclosure agreements used by employers to silence employees subjected to harassment and abuse to be banned.
    • Move to protect workers and stop victims from suffering in silence tabled as an amendment to landmark Employment Rights Bill.
    • Welcomed by campaigners, this change is part of wider measures included in the Bill to back workers as part of the government’s Plan for Change.

    Employees who are subject to harassment or discrimination will no longer be silenced by controversial non-disclosure agreements (NDAs), as part of amendments to the Employment Rights Bill.

    Changes set to be introduced to the Bill, which is due to return to the Lords next week, will void NDAs used by employers against employees who have been subjected to harassment, including sexual harassment or discrimination in the workplace – no longer forcing them to suffer in silence.   

    The move will also mean that witnesses to this abhorrent behaviour can call it out and publicly support victims without the threat of being sued.   

    Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner said:  

    We have heard the calls from victims of harassment and discrimination to end the misuse of NDAs.

    It is time we stamped this practice out – and this government is taking action to make that happen.

    The Employment Rights Bill will ban any NDA used for this purpose, so that no one is forced to suffer in silence.

    Employment Rights Minister Justin Madders said: 

    The misuse of NDAs to silence victims or harassment or discrimination is an appalling practice that this government has been determined to end.

    These amendments will give millions of workers confidence that inappropriate behaviour in the workplace will be dealt with, not hidden, allowing them to get on with building a prosperous and successful career.

    NDAs is a catch-all term to describe any agreement containing confidentiality or non-disparagement clauses or used to describe those clauses themselves. These contracts or clauses restrict what a signatory can say, or who they can tell, about something.   

    Their original purpose was to protect intellectual property or other commercial or sensitive information, but reports have shown they have become commonly used to prevent people speaking out about horrific experiences in the workplace.   

    There have been many high-profile cases of NDAs being used to prevent victims from speaking about crimes, often forcing women and vulnerable individuals to feel stuck in unwanted situations, through fear or desperation.  

    If passed, these rules will mean that any confidentiality clauses in settlement agreements or other agreements that seek to prevent a worker speaking about an allegation of harassment or discrimination will be null and void. This will allow victims to speak freely about their experiences and their employer able to support them publicly.  

    Campaign group Can’t Buy My Silence, spearheaded by Zelda Perkins, former PA to Harvey Weinstein, has led the charge in calling for this change, alongside MPs such as Louise Haigh and Sarah Russell.  

    Zelda Perkins, Founder of the campaign Can’t Buy My Silence UK, said:

    This is a huge milestone, for years, we’ve heard empty promises from governments whilst victims have continued to be silenced, to see this Government accept the need for nationwide legal change shows that they have listened and understood the abuse of power taking place.

    Above all though, this victory belongs to the people who broke their NDAs, who risked everything to speak the truth when they were told they couldn’t. Without their courage, none of this would be happening.

    This is not over yet and we will continue to focus closely on this to ensure the regulations are watertight and no one can be forced into silence again. If what is promised at this stage becomes reality, then the UK will be leading the world in protecting not only workers but the integrity of the law.

    The amendments being tabled today will add to the measures already in place in the Employment Rights Bill – landmark legislation introduced as part of the government’s Plan for Change – ensuring workers’ rights are fair and fit for a modern economy, while tackling the low pay and poor working conditions still facing people up and down the country.   

    ENDS 

    Note to editors:

    • This government is delivering the biggest upgrade to workers’ rights in a generation—backed by business and public support. For too long, the UK has lagged behind other advanced economies in modernising employment protections. That’s why we’re banning exploitative zero-hours contracts, ending fire and rehire, introducing day-one rights to sick pay and parental leave, and extending bereavement leave to those facing pregnancy loss through this legislation. These reforms boost job security and wellbeing, which in turn drives productivity and economic growth—the top priority in our Plan for Change.

    Updates to this page

    Published 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: St Petersburg University mathematicians helped simplify signal synchronization in navigation and communication systems | Saint Petersburg State University

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Saint Petersburg State University –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The proposed calculation method avoids the inaccuracies that were allowed by previously used approaches and offers engineers simple formulas that are convenient for use in real projects.

    Phase-locked loop systems are widely used in satellite navigation and wireless communication devices. They provide precise synchronization of the frequency and phase of the signal coming to the device and the signal generated by the device itself. For example, in the case of a Wi-Fi connection between a router and a phone, the signals from the devices may differ slightly due to interference or instability of the transmitter (router). The phase-locked loop system compares the characteristics of the incoming signal and adjusts them to those characteristic of the device. This reduces the number of errors in the transmission of information, even if the original signal is “noisy”.

    Research results, supported with a grant from the Russian Science Foundation (RSF), published in a scientific journal IEEE Access.

    However, phase-locked loop systems operate stably only if a number of conditions are met. For example, there are limitations on the so-called hold range, the frequency difference at which synchronization can still be maintained. Another important parameter is the capture range, i.e. the frequency spectrum within which synchronization is guaranteed under any initial conditions. At the same time, it is difficult to accurately determine the capture range, since its calculation requires solving systems of nonlinear equations with a large number of variables. Previously, engineers used approximate methods that could lead to errors, and therefore did not always ensure stable operation of the system.

    Researchers from St. Petersburg University analyzed operation of one of the most common phase-locked loop systems and found a simpler way to accurately calculate its capture range. To do this, scientists from St. Petersburg State University used a mathematical method of replacing variables, which allows equations used in other approaches to be reduced to a simpler form. In addition, the researchers used graphs to display how the state of the phase-locked loop system changes over time when transmitting and receiving signals with different parameters (frequencies and phases).

    We have proposed a comprehensive approach that combines qualitative analysis of the system and the theory of hidden oscillations, the creation and development of which was this year. was noted State Prize of the Russian Federation in the field of science and technology.

    Head of the Department of Applied Cybernetics at St. Petersburg State University, Head of the Laboratory of Information and Control Systems at the Institute of Mechanical Engineering of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Corresponding Member of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Professor Nikolay Kuznetsov

    “This approach allowed us to obtain an accurate formula for the capture range and avoid a situation where the device unexpectedly loses synchronization, which can be critical in the case of systems used in navigation and energy. In the future, we plan to develop methods of the theory of hidden oscillations for the analysis of more complex phase-locked loop systems and collaborate with engineers to create prototypes of such systems based on the proposed methods of analysis and synthesis. The relevance of this work is associated with the import substitution program in Russian electronics and a wide range of engineering applications,” explained Nikolai Kuznetsov, Head of the Department of Applied Cybernetics at St. Petersburg State University, Head of the Laboratory of Information and Control Systems at the Institute of Mechanics of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Corresponding Member of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Professor.

    St Petersburg University mathematician receives State Prize in Science and Technology

    The derived formulas made it possible to correct inaccuracies previously proposed approaches, in particular ignoring hidden oscillations that can lead to loss of synchronization. Computer modeling confirmed that the calculations accurately describe the real behavior of the automatic frequency control system, which makes them suitable for practical use.

    Saint Petersburg State University is the oldest university in Russia. It was founded on January 28 (February 8), 1724, when Peter the Great issued a decree establishing the University and the Russian Academy of Sciences. Today, SPbU is one of the largest scientific and educational centers. More than 20 thousand students study here, more than 15 large laboratories and 23 resource centers have been created, which are part of the country’s leading Science Park. Graduates of the University have repeatedly become Nobel and Fields Medal laureates.

    Recently, the Northern capital has officially celebrated a new holiday: Saint Petersburg State University Day. contributed in the Law of St. Petersburg “On Holidays and Memorable Dates in St. Petersburg”.

    In February 2025, a ceremony was held during which Roscosmos cosmonauts handed over To the University flag “300 years of St. Petersburg State University”, which made its way to the International Space Station and back.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Gabon Oil & Gas Minister Joins African Energy Week (AEW) 2025 Amid Drive to Develop Deepwater Assets

    Source: APO – Report:

    Sosthène Nguema Nguema, Minister of Oil & Gas of Gabon, has joined the African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies conference to discuss the country’s strategic shift towards deepwater exploration. Taking place September 29 to October 3 in Cape Town, the event represents the largest of its kind on the continent and serves as the platform of choice for global operators, financiers and service providers. Minister Nguema’s participation reflects the country’s drive to work with global partners to unlock greater value from Gabon’s oil and gas sector and is expected to create new opportunities for collaboration and investment.  

    With over two billion barrels of proven oil reserves and significant gas potential, Gabon seeks to increase national oil production to upwards of 220,000 barrels per day (bpd) in the short to medium term. To achieve this goal, the country is promoting fresh investment across undeveloped acreage, notably deepwater basins, which offer significant upside potential. Deepwater exploration and production will not only generate significant returns for operators but support the country’s economic growth objectives. To entice deepwater investment, Ministry of Oil & Gas is leveraging policy reform to create a more competitive business environment for foreign operators. Following the implementation of the Hydrocarbon Code in 2019, the new government has sought to strengthen fiscal terms and regulations even further. Upcoming amendments are geared towards foreign capital and will significantly improve Gabon’s business climate.  

    AEW: Invest in African Energies is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit http://www.AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event. 

    Beyond new investments, Gabon continues to drive a series of ambitious oil and gas projects. At the forefront of this is independent energy company Perenco’s Cap Lopez LNG terminal – situated at the existing Cap Lopez oil terminal. The $2 billion development will introduce a FLNG vessel to the market, designed to monetize the country’s offshore gas reserves and reduce gas flaring. The FLNG unit features 700,000 tons of LNG and 25,000 tons of LPG, with storage capacity of 137,000 cubic meters. Production is slated for 2026, setting the country up for accelerated energy growth and diversification. Beyond Cap Lopez, Perenco’s Gabonese projects seek to bolster national oil and gas production. The company continues to expand its upstream footprint with the commissioning of the Kombi 2 platform on the Kombi- -Likalala-Libondo II permit. Currently under construction by Dixstone at the Nieuwdorp shipyard in the Netherlands, the platform is scheduled to depart in October and enter into operation offshore Pointe-Noire by early next year.  

    In addition to Perenco, other companies are also driving ambitious projects. Notably, BW Energy signed production sharing contracts for exploration blocks Niosi Marin and Guduma Marin in 2024, covering an eight-year exploration period with a two-year extension option. The company – alongside its partner VAALCO Energy – plans to spud a well while carrying out a 3D seismic campaign. BW Energy also has stakes in the Dussafu license, which features 14 producing wells tied back to a FPSO through a 20km pipeline. Meanwhile, China’s CNOOC launched wildcat drilling on Blocks BC-9 and BCD-10 in early-2023 on the back of 1.4 billion barrels of recoverable resource potential. The state-owned Gabon Oil Company (GOC) is also ramping up its investments. The company acquired Tullow Oil’s entire Gabonese portfolio for a sum of $300 million, a transaction that includes 10,000 bpd in production and 36 million barrels of proven reserves. GOC is committed to enhancing oil production through partnerships with international operators and strategic investments in exploration and production.  

    Minister Nguema’s participation at AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025 will serve to advance the country’s oil and gas industry goals. During the event, he is expected to share insights into the country’s exploration and production landscape, highlighting upcoming investment opportunities and areas of collaboration. Through his participation, operators will gain first-hand insight into the country’s oil and gas sector.  

    “Gabon is implementing a strategic development agenda, aimed at unlocking greater resources from the country’s oil and gas industry. By focusing on deepwater acreage, working closely with international partners and committing to enhanced production flows, the country is creating a wealth of opportunities for both companies and entrepreneurs,” states Verner Ayukegba, Senior Vice Price President, African Energy Chamber.  

    – on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

    Media files

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    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Wolves at Work community drop-in sessions offer employability support

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    The latest events come during Employability Week (7 to 11 July) and are open to all Wolverhampton residents aged 16 and over, who are looking for work or considering their next career steps.

    Further drop-in sessions taking place this week are:

    • Oasis Café, Whitburn Close, Wolverhampton, WV9 5NJ, on Wednesday, July 9, between 1pm and 2.30pm
    • Bilston Public Library & Art Gallery, Mount Pleasant, Bilston, WV14 7LU, on Thursday, July 10, between 10am and 1pm
    • Bushbury Lane Academy, Ripon Road, Wolverhampton, WV10 9TR, on Thursday, July 10, between 8.45am and 11.30am
    • Windsor Nursery, 17 Windsor Road, WV4 6EL, on Friday, July 11, between 8.30am and 3.30pm

    Wolves at Work offers personalised, one-to-one support from a dedicated Work Coach, including:

    • CV writing, job application and interview support
    • Help with travel and small work-related costs
    • Up to 6 months of support while job seeking
    • Continued in-work support for 26 weeks
    • Access to hundreds of local vacancies through our employer partnerships
    • Referrals to trusted partners including the National Careers Service

    The council’s Cabinet Member for City Development, Jobs and Skills, Councillor Chris Burden, said: “Securing a brighter future for local people by getting them into good jobs and training is one of the key priorities for the city.

    “Employability Week brings this into sharp focus – and the community drop-in sessions are invaluable in reaching those who need support.

    “Over the last 12 months hundreds more people have been helped into jobs with city employers and much of this is thanks to the efforts of the Wolves at Work programme.”

    Residents can also register for employment support by visiting the Wolves at Work office at i10, Railway Drive, Wolverhampton, WV1 1LH (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm), calling 01902 554400 or emailing wolvesatwork@wolverhampton.gov.uk. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Derby City Council’s Children’s Services rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted

    Source: City of Derby

    Derby City Council’s Children’s Services continues to set a high standard, earning its second consecutive ‘Outstanding’ rating from Ofsted. Inspectors praised the services as ‘responsive and effective,’ and rated them outstanding across all the areas assessed – meaning they have improved since the last ‘Outstanding’ assessment in 2022.

    This means that children, young people and their families are more likely to get the support they need, when they need it, and face safer and more positive futures as a result.

    Inspectors from Ofsted, the national organisation which regulates and inspects schools and children’s services across the country, carried out an inspection in May. Their report, published today, highlights strong senior leadership, high-quality social work practice, and extensive support for children in care and care leavers.

    The report states:

    Since its last inspection, when services overall were judged to be outstanding, ambitious leadership has achieved further improvements in all areas. In a city facing significant challenges through deprivation and demographic change, leaders have ensured that services for vulnerable children are responsive and effective and help combat the impact of poverty.

    Councillor Paul Hezelgrave, Derby City Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Skills, said:

    We’re absolutely thrilled with the excellent report Derby’s Children’s Services has received. It’s a true testament to the passion and dedication of everyone working within the service.

    We’re committed to providing the right care and support for every child and family in our city, and this inspection result shows we’re succeeding.

    The inspection specifically recognised Derby’s ‘Outstanding’ performance in the following key areas:

    • Strong leadership that positively influences the quality of social work practice.
    • Providing effective support for children who need help and protection, ensuring their safety and well-being.
    • The excellent support for children in care, which ensures they make positive strides in their development.
    • The positive experience of young people transitioning out of care who are given the support they need to thrive independently.
    • Overall effectiveness, confirming the high standards of Derby’s Children’s Services across the board.

    The report states:

    Children in Derby benefit from consistently high-quality social work practice and excellent support from other highly skilled practitioners. Derby has achieved one of the most stable social work workforces in the country, evidenced by its low rates of staff turnover, few vacancies, and no reliance on agency workers. 

    Alongside this, purposeful investment in early help, effective partnership working and a commitment to supporting children within their family networks are helping to keep children safe and supporting them to thrive. 

    Children in care benefit from consistent relationships with their social workers and impactful life-story work and live in caring homes that provide security and permanence.

    Andy Smith, Strategic Director for People Services, was recently appointed a CBE in His Majesty The King’s Birthday Honours list, for his services to disadvantaged and vulnerable children. He said:

    To achieve an Outstanding rating in two consecutive inspections is a remarkable achievement. This wouldn’t have been possible without the unwavering hard work of everyone in our Children’s Services team, staff across the wider Council and our partners.

    We’re very proud of the positive impact we’re making on the lives of children and young people in Derby.

    The full inspection report is available on the Ofsted website.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Sichuan University hosts forum on cooperation between universities in Sichuan and the Volga region of Russia

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    Beijing, July 8 (Xinhua) — A forum on cooperation between universities in Sichuan Province and the Volga region of Russia was held at Sichuan University. Vice-Rector of Sichuan University Zhao Changsheng and head of the Russian delegation, Rector of the Kozma Minin Nizhny Novgorod State Pedagogical University (NSPU) Viktor Sdobnyakov delivered speeches at the opening ceremony.

    According to the information on the official website of Sichuan University, Zhao Changsheng warmly welcomed the representatives of sister universities from China and Russia. He briefly spoke about the cooperation between Sichuan University and Russia and the development of the Association of Universities of the Yangtze and Volga Rivers, emphasizing that this forum provides an excellent opportunity for member universities from the Chinese and Russian sides to practically implement key projects and strengthen partnerships.

    Rector of NSPU V. Sdobnyakov, on behalf of Russian universities, expressed sincere gratitude for the warm welcome from Sichuan University and spoke about the cooperation of his university with Chinese universities. He expressed hope for joint promotion of the sister universities of the Association, deepening cooperation in the field of higher education between China and Russia and joint promotion of long-term development of Chinese-Russian relations.

    During the discussion, leaders and experts from six universities in Sichuan Province and six Russian universities, relying on the characteristics and advantages of their educational institutions, exchanged in-depth cooperation experiences and held a constructive dialogue on how to explore more multifaceted and flexible ways of cooperation between Chinese and Russian universities. -0-

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Chinese Premier Calls for Commitment to Building Open Global Economy

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    RIO DE JANEIRO, July 8 (Xinhua) — Addressing the plenary sessions of the 17th BRICS summit on Sunday and Monday, Chinese Premier Li Qiang called for commitment to building an open world economy, opposed unilateralism and protectionism, and stressed the need to maintain stability and smooth operation of industrial and supply chains.

    At the plenary sessions, the Chinese premier also touched upon topics such as strengthening multilateralism, artificial intelligence, environmental protection and climate change, and global health. The sessions were attended by leaders of BRICS countries, partner countries, guest countries, and representatives of international organizations.

    Li Qiang noted that the current international economic and trade order and the multilateral trading system are facing serious challenges, and global economic recovery remains a difficult task. In expanding cooperation, BRICS should remain true to the founding purpose of the organization, meet the demands of the times, uphold and practice multilateralism, promote a fair and open international economic and trade order, join forces in the Global South, and make greater contributions to global stability and development, he said.

    According to the Prime Minister, when expanding cooperation, BRICS must support the basic principles of the World Trade Organization (WTO) and promote liberalization and simplification of trade and investment procedures.

    Mentioning the establishment of the China Cooperation Center for the Development of Special Economic Zones in the BRICS countries this year, Li Qiang expressed China’s readiness to work with all parties to build a network of practical cooperation.

    He called on all parties to remain committed to strengthening international financial cooperation, expressing support for the expansion and strengthening of the New Development Bank and welcoming the willingness of countries in the Global South to invest in China’s financial market.

    He called for an accelerated review of the World Bank’s equity stakes and the adjustment of quota shares by the International Monetary Fund, and stressed the need to enhance the representation and voice of developing countries.

    Li Qiang noted that greater cooperation within BRICS should open up a “new blue ocean” of economic growth, calling for cooperation in new areas such as the digital and green economy, to make artificial intelligence (AI) the driving force of all industries and benefit every household, and to help strengthen the capacity of countries in the Global South.

    China will launch the Global South Digital Development Initiative under the Global Development Initiative and plans to provide 200 training programs on digital economy and AI to Global South countries over the next five years, he said.

    He added that China welcomes the participation of all countries in the World Conference on Artificial Intelligence to be held later in July.

    Highlighting the growing risks in the areas of climate, environment and health, Li Qiang said the international community should form a broad consensus, take active actions and join efforts to address common challenges.

    He called on the international community to strengthen global synergy in combating climate change, resolutely implement the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Paris Agreement, adhere to the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities, and deepen cooperation in clean energy, carbon markets and other areas.

    Developed countries must fulfill their commitments to climate change financing, technology transfer and other areas, Li Qiang stressed.

    According to him, the world must achieve more tangible results in the field of environmental protection, adhere to the principle of harmonious coexistence between humanity and nature, advocate for a systems approach to management and more effectively implement the Convention on Biological Diversity and the UN Convention to Combat Desertification.

    He also called for increased capacity building for public health systems, calling on the international community to support the World Health Organization’s coordinating role in global health governance, make full use of platforms such as the BRICS Vaccine Research and Development Centre, and provide more public goods to countries in the Global South.

    China always fulfills its obligations and makes active contributions to global challenges within its capabilities, Li said, adding that China will continue to take concrete actions, fulfill its responsibilities and cooperate with all parties to promote greener, healthier and more sustainable global development.

    The summit resulted in the adoption of the BRICS Leaders’ Statement on Global Governance in Artificial Intelligence and the BRICS Leaders’ Framework Declaration on Climate Finance. –0–

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK UK Economic security – Business and Trade Sub-Committee on Economic Security, Arms & Export Controls

    Source: United Kingdom UK Parliament (video statements)

    The Business and Trade sub-Committee questions Marks and Spencer Chairman Archie Norman on the devastating cyber-attack that has disrupted the iconic British retailer’s operations for months.

    After acknowledging the attack in April, the company was forced to suspend all online sales for weeks and its website operations are not expected to be fully restored for another month or so. It is believed some customer data was also breached. Marks and Spencer has estimated the attack will hit this year’s profits by £300 million.

    At around the same time in April, the Co-op Group disclosed “unauthorised access attempts” that disrupted customer and back-office services.

    What happened in these two cases and what does it tell us about UK’s approach, across the public and private sectors, to countering a commercial and economic risk that may be growing to the point where it becomes “uninsurable”?

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KEKD0HSNAm0

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Largest ever budget for water regulation

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Largest ever budget for water regulation

    New analysis reveals largest budget for Environment Agency’s water regulation in history

    • New analysis reveals largest budget for Environment Agency’s water regulation in history
    • Massive cash injection comes through charges on water companies not from taxpayers, meaning polluters pay
    • The Water (Special Measures) Act introduces new levies to pay for water company enforcement activities

    The largest ever budget for tackling water pollution has been handed to the country’s water watchdog, as part of the government’s plan to deliver the most significant increase in enforcement powers in a decade.

    The Environment Agency, who are in charge of water company inspections and prosecutions for environmental damage, will receive a cash injection of over £189m this financial year. This will fund more enforcement officers, improved equipment and the latest technology for the regulator.

    This year alone it will carry out more than 10,000 inspections of water company assets and has already launched a record 81 criminal investigations into water company pollution incidents since July 2024.

    Funding has increased by 64% since 2023/2024, with all of this increase coming from charges paid by water companies rather than from the public purse. This will mean it is the polluter that paying the cost of regulating the sector, not taxpayers.

    Environment Secretary Steve Reed said:

    The public are furious about sewage pollution in our rivers, lakes and seas.

    This government is cleaning them up, including the biggest boost to enforcement in a decade paid for by the water companies responsible for it.

    Our changes give the water watchdog the resources they need to tackle pollution and clean up our rivers, lakes and seas for good – all part of the Government’s Plan for Change.

    The Environment Agency has agreed to deliver tough efficiency targets over as part of the spending review, to ensure that this money is targeted on frontline delivery and enforcement. Already, the EA has driven efficiency savings of over £23 million during 2024/25. 

    As a further boost, a new levy on the water sector, which is subject to consultation, will allow the EA to recover the cost of their enforcement activities in the sector – a power granted through the landmark Water (Special Measures) Act, making it easier for the regulator to take enforcement action when needed.

    In addition, the EA’s programme of farm inspections has been boosted, with 6,000 a year by 2029 planned, to support the agricultural sector reduce pollution into waterways.

    Notes to editors

    • We inherited a broken water system with record levels of sewage being pumped into our waterways. The Government is committed to cleaning up our rivers, lakes and seas for good.

    • Enforcement:

    • The Government has launched the largest crackdown on water companies in history. The era of profiting from pollution is over.
    • Unfair bonuses have now been banned, a record 81 criminal investigations have been launched into sewage pollution and polluting water bosses who cover up their crimes now face prison sentences.

    • This funding will boost the Environment Agency’s investigation and enforcement capabilities.

    • Investment:

    • The Government has secured the largest investment into the water sector in history to clean up rivers, lakes and seas in communities across the country.

    •  £104bn in private sector investment is being invested to upgrade crumbling sewage pipes and cut sewage by nearly half by 2030.

    • Modernisation:

    • The recommendations of the Independent Water Commission, a once-in-a-generation opportunity to modernise the water industry, will form the basis of further legislation later this parliament to ensure the sector is fit for the decades to come and clean up our rivers, lakes and seas for good.
    1. Table 1 sets out the key EA funding streams related to Water Quality, dating back to 2022/23.
    2. EA funding comes from two main sources:

    a. Grant-in-Aid funding from Defra. This pays for the EA to carry out its statutory duties, from water quality monitoring to waste crime investigations. This funding decreased slightly in 2025/26 because it is being replaced by an increase in charge income, which now covers the cost of water company inspections and enforcement.

    b. Charge income. This mostly consists of charges paid by water companies for their permits (initial application fee and annual subsistence charges). It also includes the EA’s proposed water levy and some income from other government departments.

    Table 1: Summary of the separate funding streams relating to WQ, from 2022-2026.

    Income stream (£m) 22/23 23/24 24/25 25/26
    Statutory duties including WQ (GiA) 17 19 20 22
    Specific transfers for WQ (GiA) 18.7 18.3 24.1 14.8
    WQ charge income (including permit charges and proposed levy income) 74 73 113 149
    Other income from govt departments 4 4 4 4
    Total 114 115 161 189

    Updates to this page

    Published 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: British High Commission Empowers Pakistani Media Amid Monsoon Devastation

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    World news story

    British High Commission Empowers Pakistani Media Amid Monsoon Devastation

    As Pakistan grapples with deadly monsoon floods and a projected $1.2 trillion cost of climate inaction, the British High Commission has launched a nationwide climate journalism training initiative to empower media professionals to drive awareness and action.

    The training will spotlight the crucial role journalists play in encouraging climate action. Journalists can spotlight climate change solutions, encourage climate action, and can help their readers and viewers to understand how climate change affects them.

    Deputy Director of Communications and Public Diplomacy, Sneha Lala, said:

    The cost of inaction on climate change in Pakistan is $1.2 trillion by 2050. Within that figure is countless lives lost, countless numbers of people pushed into poverty, and countless livelihoods lost. It can be a bleak picture, but climate journalism is at the heart of showing us that there is another option. Climate journalism can incentivise action, spotlight solutions, and create change. I look forward to seeing the stories journalists go on to produce.

    Having delivered trainings to the Express Group (Express Tribune, Express News and Daily Express), Geo News, Daily Jang, The News, The Nation and Nawa-e-Waqt in Islamabad, the High Commission will now travel to Lahore and Karachi, to continue their training programme.

    British High Commission will be joined by a number of Chevening alumni, who honed their climate expertise through the prestigious scholarship where they studied a master’s qualification in the UK. This includes Syed Muhammad Abubakar, Environmental Journalist and PhD Scholar at George Mason University, U.S; Hammad Naqi Khan, Director General WWF Pakistan; and Sana Munir, Director of Local Government Audit.

    They will also be joined by Muhammad Talal, senior sub-editor of Samaa digital, and Muhammad Asim Siddique, General Manager Samaa digital, both alumni of the High Commission’s Chevening climate mentorship programme. They have been supported by Adil Shahzeb, who has shared his insights on integrating climate stories into Dawn’s primetime show, ‘Live with Adil Shahzeb’.

    Leo Hickman, editor and director of the Carbon Brief, is supporting the training programme. The High Commission will run a competition for all training participants. Journalists will submit their best climate story, and the winner will receive mentorship from Hickman.

    Notes to Editors:

    Chevening Scholarships are the UK government’s global scholarships programme. Established in 1983, these scholarships support study at UK universities – mostly one-year Masters’ degrees – for students with demonstrable potential to become future leaders, decision-makers and opinion formers. In Pakistan, there are nearly 2000 alumni to date. Applications will open in August.

    For updates on the British High Commission, please follow our social media channels:

    Updates to this page

    Published 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New youth festival coming to York this summer

    Source: City of York

    Young people in York are invited to come along and enjoy the first ever Youth Festival, taking place in Rowntree Park on 23 July.

    The York Youth Festival is being hosted by York Youth Council supported by City of York Council’s Communities Team and will provide a fun, safe space for young people to enjoy music, activities and free food. The event will include a range of free fun activities including axe throwing, footie kickabout, zorbing and many more.

    The festival is being held following the “Make Your Mark” survey in 2024  where the Youth Council heard from over 5,000 young people in the city.

    Will, a member of the Youth Council, said:

    “Our survey revealed that the main priorities for young people in York are opportunities, media and culture, so our festival will help address these challenges, and we can’t wait until we hold the event!”

    To help support the event the Youth Council are working with Emerging Talent to promote local young musicians and youth bands that would like to perform, with slots available for 10 and 15 minute musical sets. The event also offers local community groups free space to hold stands, run activities and host games during the event. Activities will include Zorbing, sports, inflatable axe throw, badgemaking and more.

    Naomi, also a Youth Councillor, added:

    “It’s going to be an amazing event for young people from around the city, giving them a space to get together and have some fun. It’s been great to see how supportive organisations and community groups have been already, and we’re grateful for the council’s support via the Holiday, Activity and Food programme for providing the food and Emerging Talent for providing a valuable platform for young local musical acts.”

    Cllr Bob Webb, Executive Member for Children, Young People and Education, said:

    “It’s been really positive to see how passionate the young people of our city are about building strong relationships and experiencing new cultures.

    “This festival will provide a great space for York’s young people to come together and make new friends whilst building their independence.”

    The festival will take place at Rowntree Park from 2pm to 5pm on Wednesday 23 July. There’s no need to book, simply turn up and have fun! More information on the event can be found on the Youth Council website at www.york.gov.uk/york-youth-council/york-youth-festival.

    Anyone interested in a musical slot should get in touch with Emerging Talents by emailing Mark and Julie Ellerker at theelkyork@gmail.com.

    Anyone interested in providing an activity or stall should contact the Communities Officer, Shiona at yorkyouthcouncil@york.gov.uk.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Supporting more people on their journey of recovery from addiction in York

    Source: City of York

    City of York Council is leading by example to support more people on their journey to recovery from addiction.

    City of York Council is leading by example to support more people on their journey to recovery from addiction.

    The council is actively working with a number of recovery organisations in York to bring a city centre recovery hub to life, as well as making steps towards becoming a champion for York as an Inclusive Recovery City, tackling stigma and discrimination against people with addictions and celebrating their recovery by making it visible.

    Drugs and alcohol continue to present major issues for health and wellbeing in York. They lead to early illness and death, and in fact are the two leading causes of death in York for those between the ages of 15 and 49.

    They give rise to thousands of hospital admissions a year, worsen or lead to the onset of mental health conditions, and precipitate a large range of consequent physical health issues

    They also present a city issue, and interact considerably with significant issues around housing, criminal justice, community cohesion, employment and safety, holding people back from living thriving and empowered lives.

    Nationally, the approach to supporting people with drug and alcohol issues has developed significantly over the last decades, from a sole emphasis on treatment and clinical services, such as substitution therapy, to a much greater focus on recovery.

    The council wants to strengthen York’s community recovery model, to further these aims and improve the lives of people affected by addictions in York.

    Whilst there has been and continues to be various activities taking place around recovery in the city, they have never had a home to develop and grow.

    The hub, based on Wellington Row, will make it easier for people with substance use disorders to seek help. This is set to be endorsed by the council’s Executive when they’re asked to support a new contract at a public meeting on 15 July, to award York in Recovery CIC to lease and manage the Community Recovery Hub.

    Cllr Lucy Steels- Walshaw, Executive Member for Health, Wellbeing and Adult Social Care at City of York Council, said “The recovery hub is providing a recovery-oriented facility to those residents who need this type of specialist support, in the heart of York. Endorsement of the Inclusive Recovery Cities initiative shows a strong council commitment to making recovery accessible and sustainable for more people, while sending a strong signal that those in recovery in our city have the right support behind them on their journey.”

    These community connections have been going for many years, with pop-up cafes, meetings, activities, support and social events happening most days of the week.

    Organisations including SMART UK, Alcoholic Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, Cocaine Anonymous, York in Recovery, Lived Insights, as well as charities such as Chocolate & Co and the treatment providers Change Grow Live and Emerging Futures, facilitate a vibrant recovery community in York involving many thousands of people.

    A pilot of how a Community Recovery Hub could work took place 18 months ago, and the opportunity has now come to The Hub, Wellington Row, which is owned by the council, as a more permanent base for this work

    Mark Green from York in Recovery said: “At York In Recovery, we know from lived experience that stigma is one of the greatest barriers preventing people from reaching out for the help they need when struggling with substance use.  Stigma isolates people, delays access to support and too often costs lives.

    “Recovery from addiction can be as lonely as when in addiction, we can all play our part in changing that narrative because recovery is real and when the right help support, and compassion are offered at the right time, people not only survive – they thrive.

    “The Recovery Hub will be a place for recovery curious individuals as much as for those who are already in the recovery community, it will be a beacon of hope to many and will support the work underway with the Inclusive Recovery Cities initiative.

    “York In Recovery are excited about the future and what will grow from the Recovery Hub.”

    Supporting the hub is one step towards supporting people’s journey in recover by the council wants to take this a step further.

    York wants to follow in the footsteps of other countries including America, Australia and New Zealand who have all championed the ‘inclusive recovery cities movement.’ Closer to home Middlesbrough –  became the first official Inclusive Recovery City in 2024.

    Championed by Professor David Best, the movement makes recovery visible, giving hope to those currently experiencing substance use problems and providing ongoing support to those who are in recovery from substance use disorders

    It challenges the stigma which can stop people coming forward for help, contributing to further harm, including as serious as death, for those with substance use disorders. It champions multiple pathways to recovery from substance use disorders and recognises that through doing this, the whole city will benefit.

    The Executive will be asked to express the council’s commitment to the Inclusive Recovery Cities approach and York’s Inclusive Recovery City Vision statement.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New campaign demands an end to catapult cruelty

    Source: City of Canterbury

    Home  »  Latest News   »   New campaign demands an end to catapult cruelty
    An X-ray of a mallard duck injured by a catapult in Herne Bay, showing the ball bearing

    Too many animals across the county are being injured or killed by people using catapults and it needs to stop. 

    That’s the view of Cllr Connie Nolan, Canterbury City Council’s Cabinet Member for Community Engagement, Safety and Enforcement who, in a statement, outlined the ongoing problem with people who target wildlife in our area and announced the launch of Canterbury City Council’s End Catapult Cruelty campaign. 

    The campaign is backing calls from across the country, the county and nationally for a ban on people using catapults in public places and for shops and websites to stop selling them to anyone aged under 18. 

    Speaking after Monday’s meeting of the Cabinet, she said: “Residents have reported people, especially young people, targeting the wildlife in our district.  

    “Innocent animals are being killed and injured in our district and across Kent and that is unacceptable. Something needs to be done to make it stop. 

    “We banned the carrying and sale of knives. We can do it with catapults. 

    “The serious concerns for the welfare of the animals coming under attack or being used as target practice are growing and growing – the government must act. 

    “Unfortunately, it’s not just animals, catapults are also being used to damage cars and buses. It has to stop before someone gets seriously hurt. 

    “While we are waiting for the law to be changed, shops and websites have an overwhelming moral obligation to put a voluntary ban in place and require proof of age before selling a catapult.” 

    Stitches where the catapult ammunition was removed from the duck

    Sarah Jenner is a volunteer with The Bird Magnets of Bubble2bay and has helped rehabilitate injured birds for the past six years. 

    She offers them a permanent home if they cannot be released because of their injuries. This includes a herring gull. 

    Sarah is currently nursing a female mallard duck who was recently shot with a ball bearing in Herne Bay.  

    Another volunteer is raising three mallard ducklings whose mother was shot dead with a catapult.  

    Sarah said: “We support this campaign because we are absolutely appalled and disgusted by how animals are being treated, often driven by ridiculous trends on Tik Tok and Instagram.” 

    The council is calling on councillors, MPs, Kent’s Police and Crime Commissioner, animal welfare charities and, most importantly, members of the public to sign its petition here.  

    There is currently no legal minimum age to buy, own or carry a catapult. 

    In law, catapults are classed as offensive weapons if they are being carried with intent to cause harm. 

    And causing unnecessary suffering is a criminal offence as well as killing wild birds or wildlife with any weapon unless you have a licence. 

    Published: 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: African students of the Polytechnic University at the celebration of St. Petersburg graduates

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Excellent students of the pre-university training program of the Polytechnic University took part in the festive events for graduates “Scarlet Sails” at the invitation of the Governor of St. Petersburg Alexander Beglov.

    The beauty of the Palace Embankment and the atmosphere of the white night won the hearts of the guests. At the festival, the representatives of Africa danced, watched the fireworks and admired the passage of the legendary brig with scarlet sails along the Neva.

    This event will leave memories of the Polytechnic. Also on this day I learned a lot about my friends and their countries, and it was wonderful to get to know them better, – said Elmalt Khalid from Egypt.

    Personally, I enjoyed the festival more than anything else. The activities brought together different people and symbolized love, peace and unity. I use these words to express how I feel about it, shared Mulele Gift from Zambia.

    Starting from September 1, students from Algeria, Angola, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Guinea-Bissau, Egypt, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, Mauritania, Mali, Nigeria, Tunisia and Chad will become first-year students at St. Petersburg universities.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: Monexis Expands Global Reach with Advanced Multi-Access Trading Platform Tailored for All Levels

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As retail and professional traders seek smarter, more personalized tools in today’s dynamic financial markets, Monexis has emerged as a powerful ally—offering a next-generation, multi-access trading platform designed to meet the needs of global investors. Combining real-time data, AI-powered insights, and educational support, Monexis is redefining digital trading through personalized strategies, transparent operations, and user-friendly technology across more than 20 countries.

    With a focus on customized strategies, educational empowerment, and cutting-edge technology, Monexis is redefining what it means to support traders at every level. Headquartered in New York and serving clients in over 20 countries, the company continues to expand its global footprint while maintaining a sharp focus on individual investor success.

    A Tailored Approach to Trading Success

    Monexis distinguishes itself through personalized trading strategies tailored to each client’s financial goals, experience level, and risk profile. Whether a trader is seeking long-term portfolio growth, short-term gains, or diversification through cryptocurrency, Monexis works closely with them to design strategies that are both practical and performance-driven.

    This individual approach ensures that every user has a clear path to follow, one that is based on logic, market data, and their own financial objectives.

    Technology Meets Simplicity on the Monexis Platform
    At the heart of Monexis’s offering is its intuitive and feature-rich trading platform, where technology meets investment insight. The platform is equipped with:

    • Real-time market data
    • Advanced charting and analytical tools
    • Integrated portfolio management
    • Smart strategy builders

    Users can easily monitor their trading activity, analyze performance, and execute trades efficiently. The seamless interface is designed for both beginners and experienced traders, minimizing complexity while maximizing functionality.

    The platform also incorporates customized insights and personalized dashboards, giving traders a competitive edge in fast-moving markets.

    Education and Support as Strategic Tools
    Monexis recognizes that knowledge is a powerful asset in trading. That’s why it offers a comprehensive educational ecosystem to help traders build confidence and sharpen their decision-making. 

    The resource library includes:

    • Text lessons for beginners and advanced traders
    • On-demand video tutorials (VODs)
    • Cryptocurrency fundamentals and strategies
    • Guides on fundamental and technical analysis
    • Tools for trend identification, risk management, and market prediction

    These resources are supported by 24/5 technical support and access to real-time market signals, ensuring traders are never left without guidance when they need it most.

    Whether you’re navigating your first trade or refining an advanced investment strategy, Monexis ensures that education and support are always within reach.

    Globally Connected and Regionally Aware
    Monexis operates in a growing list of countries across the Americas, Europe, Asia, and Africa, including the United States, India, Brazil, Germany, South Africa, Japan, Australia, and the United Kingdom. This global reach allows the company to deliver culturally and regionally tailored insights while maintaining access to up-to-date international financial news, events, and policy updates.

    Users benefit from detailed market reports, trend analysis, and coverage of global economic movements, all aimed at helping them make informed, timely decisions.

    Account Types Designed for Every Trader
    Monexis understands that traders have different needs and investment capacities. To accommodate this, the platform offers four distinct account tiers, each with its own features and benefits:

    Basic Account (€250 minimum)

    • 24/5 tech support
    • 48-hour withdrawal time
    • Ideal for beginners looking to explore trading

    Standard Account (€2,500 minimum)

    • 24-hour withdrawals
    • 1:100 leverage
    • Bonuses up to 50%
    • Signals and basic consultations

    VIP Account (€10,000 minimum)

    • 12-hour withdrawals
    • 1:200 leverage
    • Bonuses up to 100%
    • Enhanced signals, consultations, and insurance
    • Personal account manager

    Prime Account (€50,000 minimum)

    • 3-hour withdrawals
    • 1:400 leverage
    • Bonuses up to 150%
    • Full access to all tools, training, and personal services

    Each account level is structured to grow with the trader, offering increasingly valuable services and faster execution as investment levels increase.

    Trusted Operations and Transparent Compliance
    Monexis Inc. is legally registered and operates under the laws of the State of New York, United States. The platform adheres to strict AML (Anti-Money Laundering) and KYC (Know Your Customer) protocols to ensure secure, transparent, and compliant operations.
    All users are encouraged to review the platform’s privacy policy, client agreement, AML/KYC policy, and risk notices before opening an account.

    Monexis at a Glance

    • Headquarters: New York, United States
    • Website: www.monexis.org
    • Customer Support: +1 (800) 441‑7760
    • Email: support@monexis.org
    • Global Reach: Clients in over 20 countries
    • Platform Features: Real-time data, technical tools, personalized dashboards
    • Education Resources: VODs, guides, analysis tools, calculators, news
    • Support: 24/5 tech assistance and multilingual customer service
    • Compliance: Full adherence to U.S. regulations, AML/KYC policies

    Conclusion
    Monexis brings together the essential pillars of modern trading: personalized strategy, technological excellence, continuous education, and global insight. With a flexible account structure, round-the-clock support, and a platform designed to empower users of all levels, Monexis positions itself as a reliable and forward-focused trading solution for the global investor community.

    To learn more or to get started, visit www.monexis.org.
    Disclaimer: This press release is provided by the Monexis. 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. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. 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. 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.

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: GUU employees improve their qualifications in the field of reverse engineering

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Official website of the State –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Director of the Engineering Project Management Center of the State University of Management Vladimir Filatov successfully completed training in the advanced training program “Reverse Engineering for Managers”. The program was organized by the Agency for Technological Development and the Center for Continuing Education of the Bauman Moscow State Technical University.

    The course is aimed at mastering advanced methods of analysis and adaptation of existing technological solutions, which is especially important for the effective management of innovation and engineering projects. The training covered key aspects of reverse engineering, including methods for decomposing complex systems, analyzing competitive solutions, and implementing best practices in development processes.

    “The knowledge and tools acquired will allow us to optimize project management in our Center, as well as strengthen interaction with industrial partners within the framework of technological development,” Vladimir Filatov noted following the training.

    The State University of Management continues to actively develop the competencies of its employees and expresses gratitude to the organizers of the training: the Agency for Technological Development and the Center for Continuing Education of the Bauman Moscow State Technical University.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: GUU professor discusses staff shortage on OSN TV

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Official website of the State –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    In the program “It’s Worth Thinking About” on the Public News Service (OSN) TV channel, experts discussed the acute problem of personnel shortage that the Russian economy is facing. One of the speakers was Vladimir Volokh, professor of the Department of Public Administration and Political Technologies at the State University of Management, member of the Council under the President of the Russian Federation for Interethnic Relations and the Public Council under the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia, and a specialist in migration policy.

    The discussion touched upon the reasons for the current situation, including demographic factors, the outflow of qualified specialists abroad, and insufficient training of personnel within the country. The participants of the program considered various scenarios for solving the problem, including attracting labor resources from abroad, improving the qualifications and retraining of Russian specialists, as well as stimulating the birth rate and supporting young families.

    Professor Volokh shared his expert opinion on the role of migration policy in solving the problem of personnel shortage, emphasizing the need to create favorable conditions for attracting qualified foreign specialists and their successful integration into Russian society. He also noted the importance of combating illegal migration and protecting the rights of labor migrants.

    The program featured various points of view on the problem of personnel shortage and possible ways to solve it. The participants in the discussion agreed on the need for a comprehensive approach, including measures of economic, social and migration policy.

    The full recording of the program “It’s Worth Thinking About” on the topic “Shortage of Personnel: How to Save the Russian Economy” can be viewed on the website of the Public News Service.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: 17 people missing after landslide near China-Nepal border point /detailed version-1/

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    LHASA, July 8 (Xinhua) — A total of 17 people are missing after a landslide occurred early Tuesday near the Gyirong checkpoint on the China-Nepal border, local authorities said.

    According to the local administration, the emergency occurred at approximately 05:00 Beijing time.

    Of those missing, 11 were on the Chinese side of the border with Nepal, while the remaining six were Chinese construction workers on the Nepalese side.

    The Gyirong border crossing is located in the county of the same name in the city of Shigatse, Xizang Autonomous Region /Southwest China/. -0-

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Mongolia hosts the festival “Mongols in National Costume-2025”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    ULAN BATOR, July 8 (Xinhua) — The traditional annual festival “Mongols in National Costume-2025” is being held in the central square of Ulan Bator on Tuesday ahead of the national holiday of Naadam.

    The current event is hosted by the Ministry of Culture, Sports, Tourism and Youth of Mongolia, the Capital Tourism Office, the Mongolian Tourism Association and the Mongolian Costume Center.

    According to the organizers, the purpose of this festival is to promote tourism, popularize national clothing and pass on the culture of wearing Mongolian national costume to the next generation.

    The festival is expected to include a parade of Mongolians in national costume, a display of a collection of traditional Mongolian clothing, a competition for the best couple in national costume, and an exhibition of souvenirs and handicrafts. –0–

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: South Korea to seek win-win trade deal with US

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    SEOUL, July 8 (Xinhua) — The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy of the Republic of Korea (ROK) said Tuesday it will make efforts to reach a mutually beneficial trade deal with the United States after U.S. President Donald Trump effectively delayed the imposition of new tariffs on South Korean products.

    The ministry said in a statement that Seoul has been actively negotiating since the inauguration of the new government led by President Lee Jae-myung on June 4, guided by the principle of prioritizing national interests.

    The ministry noted that there is not enough time to reach an agreement on all issues, considering D. Trump’s letter to be a de facto postponement of the introduction of “equivalent” tariffs on South Korean products.

    The ministry promised to step up efforts to achieve mutually beneficial results in the remaining period of negotiations to quickly resolve tariff-related uncertainties, adding that Kazakhstan will address the trade deficit that worries the US by improving domestic rules and streamlining regulations.

    According to the statement, the ministry will seek to create an opportunity for a breakthrough in key industries through partnership between the two countries to revive manufacturing.

    In his letter to the South Korean leader, published on the social network Truth Social, D. Trump said that the two countries must abandon the long-term and permanent trade deficit caused by tariffs, non-tariff policies and trade barriers on the part of the Republic of Korea. –0–

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Integration of education and production: SPbPU students defended their final work at Power Machines

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Students of the Institute of Industrial Management, Economics and Trade of SPbPU defended a comprehensive final qualification work in the format of “Final Qualification Work as a Project” to solve real production and management problems of the customer – JSC “Power Machines”.

    Three students majoring in Management, International Logistics, divided the tasks among themselves as follows: Darya Snigireva considered the issues of developing fast purchases through the implementation and adaptation of marketplaces, and Maria Shapova dealt with illiquid assets: working with unloading, organizing unscheduled inventories, creating a pricing system. Both girls were advised by Nikita Lukashevich, Associate Professor of the Higher School of Industrial Management. Yana Salangina took on the transformation of the enterprise’s warehouse accounting and the development of recommendations for improving the management of the warehouse complex (consultant – Zoya Simakova, Associate Professor of the Higher School of Industrial Management).

    The main task of the student of the “Trade” direction, profile “Logistics systems in trade”, Ekaterina Rakcheeva was to develop a procurement training system and fill the “Knowledge Base” of the enterprise. Ekaterina was advised by Associate Professor of the Higher School of Service and Trade Irina Kapustina. The overall assessment of the effectiveness of the developed activities was made by a student of the “Economics” direction, profile “Economics and management at the enterprise”, Anna Myasnikova (consultant – Professor of the Higher School of Engineering and Economics Svetlana Suloeva). The project was supervised by Senior Lecturer of the Higher School of Industrial Management, the ideologist of the implementation of the complex final qualifying work on the part of the Polytechnic University Egor Temirgaliev.

    The meeting of the State Examination Committee was held on the premises of the Leningrad Metal Plant of JSC Power Machines. The State Examination Committee was headed by the Director for Development of General Industrial Suppliers of Power Machines, Evgeniya Khmel. The SEC also included representatives of the customer and the university.

    The result of the students’ work was a set of measures that optimize production and management processes at the enterprise. In particular, recommendations for improving the purchasing activities of Power Machines through the implementation of an industrial marketplace make it possible to reduce the duration of the purchasing process. The proposed automation of contractual activities through the development of a template for filling out a contract reduces the time of the purchasing manager. Due to the developed recommendations for improving warehouse operations through the implementation of barcoding, as well as the implementation of an automated warehouse complex management system, the time for performing warehouse operations is reduced, the accuracy of accounting and the throughput of the warehouse are increased.

    During the defense, the members of the State Examination Commission asked many questions, touching on their areas of professional interest. As a result, the commission rated the work as excellent.

    After the results were announced, the chairperson of the State Examination Commission, Evgeniya Khmel, summed up the defense: On the customer’s side, we make fairly high demands on students both during the pre-graduation internship and writing of the work, and during the defense itself. It is very important for us that the tasks that we set for students at the beginning of their journey find application in our business after the defense of the diploma. I can say that the team did a great job!

    This is already the third project successfully implemented by IPMET students for Power Machines. Last year, the Polytechnicians defended a comprehensive final qualifying work commissioned by Power Machines – Leningrad Metal Plant on the topic of transforming the purchasing activities of an industrial enterprise in order to reduce slow-turnover inventories, and in 2023 worked on the project “Harmonization of production needs with the provision of components and materials” by order of “Power Machines” – the “Elektrosila” plant.

    We attach great importance to the preparation of comprehensive final qualification works created by order of industrial enterprises of St. Petersburg. In this way, we solve a dual task: on the one hand, we help the enterprise to take a new look at production and management processes, on the other hand, we prepare young qualified specialists for our strategic partner, the Power Machines company, who, while still students, successfully completed pre-graduation practice, then wrote a diploma work and, most importantly, became employees of this enterprise, – commented the director of IPMEiT Vladimir Shchepinin.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New UK support to power green growth at home while tackling climate change abroad

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    New UK support to power green growth at home while tackling climate change abroad

    Senior Cabinet ministers meet City of London leaders as Foreign Secretary announces new climate support

    • Foreign Secretary announces new funding to make it easier for countries to access UK private sector climate finance and disaster risk insurance, driving UK green growth.

    • Support comes as senior Cabinet ministers meet City of London leaders to discuss UK financial sector’s role in boosting sustainable finance for emerging markets and developing economies.

    • David Lammy to set out the economic opportunity for the UK and the City of London, in line with the government’s Plan for Change—with emerging markets expected to drive 65% of global growth by 2035.

    New support will help millions of people globally deal with the daily impact of climate change, the Foreign Secretary David Lammy has today announced (Tuesday 8 July).

    A £12m commitment for disaster relief finance and insurance will help climate-vulnerable countries better prepare for the impact of disasters like hurricanes and drought. 

    This funding is triggered by certain warning signs—such as a weather event or forecast—to enable faster payouts and a more effective response.

    Backed by the UK financial sector, this will also help drive domestic green growth and unlock jobs, opportunity and security for people in the UK.

    This new funding comes as Cabinet Ministers from the Treasury, Foreign Office, DESNZ and DEFRA will today meet leaders from the financial sector. They will collectively discuss how to champion UK-based investors and financial institutions to channel investment into climate initiatives in emerging markets.

    Foreign Secretary David Lammy said:

    The climate and nature crisis is the greatest global challenge we face. Failure to act will cause unprecedented environmental damage, fuelling displacement, conflict and famine.

    Tackling this crisis is also a huge opportunity for people and businesses here in the UK, delivering on our Plan for Change. The green sector is worth trillions of pounds, and I’m determined that we seize the economic growth, jobs and security it offers.

    The City of London, the world’s leading sustainable development financing hub, has a crucial role to play in this.

    Today’s measures, in support of the UK government’s Plan for Change, will help unlock sustainable finance from the UK and elsewhere, and ensure developing countries can better manage climate shocks themselves.

    This effort will help foster sustainable growth and protect the most climate vulnerable nations. Global climate investment is increasing rapidly, hitting $2.1 trillion last year, and the government sees the City of London in a prime position to capitalise on this opportunity.

    Last year the UK’s green sector grew three times faster than the economy as a whole, attracting £43bn of private investment. With London ranked as the world’s top sustainable finance centre, the UK is uniquely positioned to grow this industry further by helping to unlock finance for emerging markets that will drive 65% of global growth by 2035.

    The £12 million for pre-arranged finance will cut the cost of responding to disasters and accelerate the time it takes them to recover from such shocks.

    This follows the UK launching a global coalition with its partners last week, to scale up pre-arranged finance tenfold by 2035, alongside a coalition to drive greater investment for developing economies through public markets. This was announced by the Minister for Development Baroness Chapman at the 4th International Conference on Financing for Development in Sevilla, Spain.

    The Foreign Secretary is also today announcing that the UK’s Financial Services Centre of Expertise will help financial regulators across ASEAN access expertise from the Financial Conduct Authority. The initiative will focus on regulatory alignment across ASEAN markets to deliver green growth opportunities for UK investors. 

    BACKGROUND:

    • It’s the first time multiple cabinet ministers will be attending a meeting with leaders from the City of London together, signalling a growth opportunity on climate action.
    • The UK will be first country to annually publish pre-arranged finance as a percentage of overall crisis finance spending, with the aspiration of increasing this over time.

    Updates to this page

    Published 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Appointment to the Judicial Pension Board

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Appointment to the Judicial Pension Board

    The Lord Chancellor has approved the appointment of Josephine Maguire as Chair of the Judicial Pension Board.

    The Lord Chancellor has approved the appointment, for 3 years from 1 July 2025, of Josephine Maguire as Chair of the Judicial Pension Board.

    Josephine Maguire is a Trustee of the DH&S Retirement and Death Benefits Plan and the Price Waterhouse Coopers (PwC) Pension Fund. Previously, she was a Pensions Assurance director with PwC and an Executive Director of the Pensions Research Accountants Group.

    In January, she was appointed as the as the Independent Pensions Specialist to the Teachers’ Pension Scheme Pension Board

    Ms Maguire has been Interim Chair of the Judicial Pension Board since 20 May.

    The Judicial Pension Board, established under the Judicial Pension Regulations 2015), helps the Lord Chancellor manage and govern the Judicial Pension Schemes by: ensuring they comply with the requirements of the Pensions Regulator; considering appeals and complaints; and making recommendations in internal dispute processes.

    Appointments are made, by the Lord Chancellor, under the Judicial Pension Regulations 2015 and are regulated by the Commissioner for Public Appointments. This appointment has been made in line with the Governance Code on Public Appointments.

    Updates to this page

    Published 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Get set for the Summer Reading Challenge

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    Young readers are invited to sign up at any of the city’s 16 libraries for free, join the adventure and discover a magical world where stories grow.

    The annual Summer Reading Challenge is delivered in partnership with The Reading Agency. Last year over 1,200 young bookworms took part, visiting their local library at least three times and reading at least six titles over the summer.

    Participants can take part in competitions and will receive a certificate and medal on completion of the challenge.

    To support this year’s theme, the city’s libraries will be hosting over 60 free activities including a special launch event at Central Library on Saturday featuring a magic show and balloon art from 11am-1pm.

    Other highlights over the coming weeks includes a visit from Professor Black, digital games, story times and craft sessions. There will also be sessions from ‘Explore Learning’ and other partners. To find out more, visit your local library.

    Councillor Bhupinder Gakhal, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Resident Services, said: “Reading not only helps children to develop their imagination but gives them essential skills for adulthood.

    “We have been supporting the Summer Reading Challenge for well over a decade and it is always very popular with young bookworms and their families, so grab your packs and give it a go.”

    It’s free to join Wolverhampton’s libraries – to find out more, please visit Libraries or call 01902 552025 or follow the library service on social media at Facebook and X.  

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –