Question for written answer E-002529/2025 to the Commission Rule 144 Christine Anderson (ESN)
The Commission’s answer of 18 June 2025 to question for written answer E-001160/2025[1] on protecting freedom of expression with regard to automatically generated or published content leaves fundamental questions unanswered. The blanket statement that automatically generated content ‘does not in itself enjoy any protection’ under the fundamental right to freedom of expression fails to recognise the reality of digital forms of communication and ignores the fact that such content is often based on human rules, intentions and editorial concepts. Technological change must not lead to an artificial narrowing of the protection of fundamental rights.
1.In the Commission’s view, what is the legal or fundamental rights justification for excluding content that is automatically generated and published according to clearly defined human rules from the protection of freedom of expression – even if it is an expression of human intention and editorial oversight?
2.How does the Commission assess the fact that many serious journalistic offerings are also increasingly using automated systems to create and publish content (e.g. weather reports, sports reports or stock market news), and does the Commission recognise that such content can form part of the freedom of expression of the press and the freedom to express one’s opinions?
3.Why does the Commission not address the principle that, in cases of doubt – for example, where authorship is unclear – the protection of freedom of expression should be taken as the default instead of automatically deleting content or categorising it as ‘not being protected by fundamental rights’, and does the Commission plan to enshrine such a protection mechanism in existing or future legislation?
Question for written answer E-002514/2025 to the Commission Rule 144 Harald Vilimsky (PfE), Georg Mayer (PfE)
The draft resolution on energy-intensive industries (2025/2536 (RSO)) raises questions about dependence on third countries, energy prices, the EU supply chain law and new sustainability guidelines. Reducing dependence on Russia was declared a strategic goal, but new dependencies on third countries such as China and the USA have developed instead. Energy prices in the EU are extraordinarily high by global standards. This has led to companies either cutting back on production or relocating to third countries. The EU supply chain law and new sustainability guidelines represent a massive hurdle for companies.
1.How does the Commission intend to prevent energy-intensive industries from becoming even more dependent on China and the USA if locations in the EU become unattractive due to the high costs?
2.What specific measures does the Commission plan to take to immediately and sustainably relieve energy-intensive industries of the enormous burden of energy costs?
3.Why do EU companies have to comply with ever more reporting obligations, while competitors from outside the EU are exempt from these rules?
This paper analyses the geopolitical implications of the Agreement between the European Union and the Southern Common Market (Mercosur), focusing on its potential for enhanced interregional cooperation. It explores how this agreement aligns with each region’s strategic interests, expanding on opportunities that arise while remaining realistic about the likelihood of implementation. This assessment takes place in a fluid geopolitical context, characterised by the United States of America’s major revision of the post-1945 world order, an increasing assertiveness displayed by China and Russia and a relative decline of Europe and Latin America both in terms of economic output and contributions to global governance. The paper concludes by discussing various ratification scenarios and offering a set of policy recommendations.
The European Investment Bank (EIB) has signed a €450 million risk-sharing guarantee agreement with CaixaBank. This agreement will enable CaixaBank reduce its risks and capital requirements for ofering new loans totalling €900 million to Spanish small and medium companies (SMEs) and mid-caps.
Question for written answer E-002500/2025 to the Commission Rule 144 Jorge Martín Frías (PfE)
The judicial elections in Mexico have raised concerns among observers and institutions[1]. The turnout was alarmingly low – barely 13 %[2] – which raises doubts about the process’ legitimacy and people’s trust in the system[3].
There is information indicating that some elected candidates have direct links to the government[4] or to organised crime groups, including drug cartels. For example, Silvia Delgado, Joaquín ‘El Chapo’ Guzmán’s former lawyer, ran for judicial office[5]. This highlights the risk of criminal influence in the judiciary.
In light of the EU’s commitment to the rule of law and to promoting democratic standards globally, and considering the strategic and economic importance of relations between the EU and Latin America (given the upcoming signature of the modernised Global Agreement):
1.Is the Commission concerned about the low turnout and lack of transparency in these elections?
2.Have the EU Delegation to Mexico or any other partners provided any information about, or an assessment of, any irregularities in the election process or its credibility?
3.Does the Commission intend to halt the signing of the modernised Global Agreement if it is confirmed that judges linked to cartels, or with a history of links to organised crime, have been chosen?
The main developments of the early Treaties are related to the creation of Community own resources, the reinforcement of the budgetary powers of Parliament, election of MEPs by direct universal suffrage and the setting-up of the European Monetary System (EMS). The entry into force of the Single European Act in 1986, which substantially altered the Treaty of Rome, bolstered the notion of integration by creating a large internal market.
The European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) is a consultative body of the European Union, based in Brussels. It is composed of 329 members. Its opinions are required on the basis of a mandatory consultation in the fields established by the Treaties or a voluntary consultation by the Commission, the Council or Parliament. It may also issue opinions on its own initiative. Its members are not bound by any instructions. They are to be completely independent in the performance of their duties, in the EU’s general interest.
The European Committee of the Regions is made up of 329 members representing the regional and local authorities of the 27 Member States of the European Union. It issues opinions sought on the basis of mandatory (as required by the Treaties) and voluntary consultation and, where appropriate, own-initiative opinions. Its members are not bound by any mandatory instructions. They are independent in the performance of their duties, in the European Union’s general interest.
Judicial cooperation in criminal matters is based on the principle of mutual recognition of judgments and judicial decisions, and includes measures to approximate the laws of the Member States in several areas. The Treaty of Lisbon has provided a stronger basis for the development of a criminal justice area, while also stipulating new powers for the European Parliament.
The rules for electing the Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) are set both by EU laws, which apply to all Member States, and national laws, which differ from country to country. The common rules establish the principle of proportional representation, define electoral thresholds and specify activities that are incompatible with serving as an MEP. Other important details, such as the specific voting system and the number of constituencies, are decided by national laws.
Intellectual property includes all exclusive rights to intellectual creations. It encompasses two types of rights: industrial property, which includes inventions (patents), trademarks, industrial designs and models and designations of origin, and copyright, which includes artistic and literary property. Since the entry into force of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) in 2009, the EU has had explicit competence for intellectual property rights (Article 118).
Parliament plays an important role in shaping European policies by exercising its various powers. Through its participation in the legislative process, its budgetary and control powers, its involvement in treaty revision and its right to intervene before the Court of Justice of the European Union, Parliament helps ensure democratic principles are respected at European level.
The EU’s border management policy has needed to adapt to significant developments, such as the unprecedented arrival of refugees and irregular migrants, and since mid-2015, a series of shortcomings in EU policies on external borders and migration have come to light. The challenges linked to the increase in mixed migration flows into the EU, the COVID-19 pandemic and heightened security concerns have triggered a new period of activity in EU external border protection, which also has an impact on its internal borders.
Atos successfully supported UEFA Under21 Championship 2025™
Next-Gen technologies for Next-Gen players
Paris, France – July 1st, 2025 – Atos, the Official Information Technology Partner of UEFA National Team Football, has delivered key IT services and applications support for the UEFA Under21 Championship 2025, that took place from June 11 to June 28, 2025, in Slovakia. This championship, which brings together 16 European teams, is the tournament where countless football legends started their journey on the global stage.
Atos supported a total of 31 matches in 17 days, taking place across 8 cities Slovakia. The services provided included:
Event Management systems including accreditation, access control solutions, competitions solutions, radio communication and service desk services.
Diffusion system like the football service platform, the mobile app, the website including some embedded gaming functionalities such as match predictor and quiz about competitions.
End-to-end cybersecurity services, from compliance and threat intelligence to on-the-ground and hybrid-cloud security.
This year’s championship has proven to be an immense popular success, establishing new records regarding physical attendance with a total of 244,866 spectators, as illustrated by Atos employees that enthusiastically attended the games. The final broke the record for stadium attendance at over 18,000 fans watching in Bratislava. TV audiences set a new standard for the competition, with a cumulated audience of over 100 million. Ahead of the final, across all competing markets domestic match audiences have seen a 7% increase, and across the Top 6 markets domestic audiences have increased by 55%, thanks to strong audiences in Germany and UK. Digital audience, page views and applications visits, are also expected to establish new heights for the tournament.
In addition to the key services provided, Atos is proudly supporting the next generation of players and rising stars of European Football with advanced technologies that can be used by coaches to further develop their players and teams’ skills and abilities. The data collected during the tournament are, for example, consolidated through AI to extract and define main strategies and new trends that appeared during the competition, allowing for a deeper understanding of the players and game’s evolution.
“We feel privileged to have witnessed first-hand the emergence of the next football stars at the UEFA Under21 Championship in Slovakia. We made sure to deliver best-in-class IT services during the tournament to allow these young players to enter the global stage and express their incredible potential in the best possible conditions” said Nacho Moros, Head of Atos Major Events.
In addition to marking a coming-of-age moment for some of the most exceptional playing careers, the Under21 championship is also the gateway to the Olympic Games men’s tournament.
Since the beginning of their collaboration in 2022, Atos and UEFA have established a strong partnership. Atos has been supporting UEFA daily in managing, enhancing, and optimizing its complex technology ecosystem while helping it navigate emerging technological challenges. Atos has also been instrumental in making the UEFA EURO 2024™ a tremendous success, as well as most recently in successfully delivering IT services for the UEFA Nations League Finals™ 2025 in Germany.
Atos has been serving its partners and customers through a dedicated in-house sports and major events division (“Major Events”) for over 3 decades, giving it an unmatched experience and the experience and flexibility to serve its customers regardless of their exposure, size and scale. From global events to local competitions, Atos consistently strives to deliver technology excellence to its entire customer base.
Atos has been involved with the Olympic Movement since 1992 and the Paralympic Movement since 2002 and is the official Digital partner for Special Olympics International. Most recently, Atos has been instrumental in delivering successful leading-edge IT services for iconic events such as the Olympic and Paralympic Games Paris 2024 or inspiring events such as the Invictus Games Vancouver 2025 or the Special Olympics Torino Winter Games 2025.
To learn more about Atos solutions for sporting events and major events, visit AtosMajor events.
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About Atos Group
Atos Group is a global leader in digital transformation with c. 72,000 employees and annual revenue of c. € 10 billion, operating in 68 countries under two brands — Atos for services and Eviden for products. European number one in cybersecurity, cloud and high-performance computing, Atos Group is committed to a secure and decarbonized future and provides tailored AI-powered, end-to-end solutions for all industries. Atos is a SE (Societas Europaea) and listed on Euronext Paris.
The purpose of Atos is to help design the future of the information space. Its expertise and services support the development of knowledge, education and research in a multicultural approach and contribute to the development of scientific and technological excellence. Across the world, the Group enables its customers and employees, and members of societies at large to live, work and develop sustainably, in a safe and secure information space.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to embark on a five-nation tour on Tuesday covering Ghana, Trinidad and Tobago, Argentina, Brazil and Namibia, marking an important push to strengthen India’s ties with Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean.
First Indian PM visit to Ghana in three decades
Prime Minister Modi will begin his tour with an official visit to Ghana on July 2 and 3- the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the West African nation in 30 years.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said the visit holds special significance as Ghana’s President John Dramani Mahama recently assumed office after a decisive electoral victory. PM Modi and President Mahama, who share a history of engagement since the India-Africa Forum Summit in 2015, will discuss ways to deepen bilateral ties.
Key areas on the agenda include agriculture, defence cooperation, critical minerals, and a possible vaccine hub to serve West Africa. India’s capacity-building initiatives like the ITEC programme have long contributed to Ghana’s human resource development. Officials expect the two sides to sign MoUs in areas such as traditional medicine, standards and cultural exchange.
Trinidad and Tobago: marking 180 years of Indian arrival
From July 3 to 4, PM Modi will visit Trinidad and Tobago, marking the first bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister since 1999. The visit coincides with the 180th anniversary of the arrival of Indian immigrants to the island nation, which hosts one of the largest Indian-origin communities in the Caribbean.
In Port of Spain, PM Modi will hold wide-ranging discussions with President Christine Carla Kangaloo, and Prime Minister Kamala Prasad Bisessar, both of whom are of Indian origin. Talks will cover cooperation in pharmaceuticals, renewable energy, digital public infrastructure, agriculture, disaster resilience, education and culture.
Highlighting the shared heritage, PM Modi will address a joint session of the Trinidad and Tobago Parliament and interact with the vibrant Indian diaspora.
Argentina visit: tapping new opportunities
PM Modi’s next stop will be Argentina on July 4 and 5 – the first standalone bilateral visit by an Indian PM to Argentina in nearly six decades.
Officials said the visit is timely as Argentina pursues major economic reforms and offers new avenues for partnership. PM Modi will hold talks with President Javier Milei, focusing on boosting cooperation in defence manufacturing, digital technology, telemedicine, mining and renewable energy.
Argentina’s vast reserves of lithium, copper and rare earths align with India’s push for secure and sustainable critical mineral supplies. India’s KABIL has already secured mining concessions in Argentina this year. Discussions will also cover food security, green energy, infrastructure, science and technology.
Brazil: BRICS summit and bilateral talks
PM Modi will then travel to Brazil to attend the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro on July 6 and 7. The theme for this year’s summit — “Strengthening Global South Cooperation for Inclusive and Sustainable Governance” — aligns with India’s foreign policy priorities.
Leaders will deliberate on reforming global governance, peace and security, climate change and artificial intelligence. India expects key outcomes including a Leaders’ Declaration and frameworks for climate finance and socially determined diseases.
On July 8, PM Modi will pay a state visit to Brasilia for bilateral talks with President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. India and Brazil will review trade ties, currently valued at $12.2 billion, and aim to push the target to $20 billion. Cooperation in oil and gas, renewable energy, critical minerals, defence, agriculture, traditional medicine, and digital public infrastructure are expected to feature prominently.
Namibia: energy, minerals, digital pay on radar
PM Modi will conclude his tour with a landmark visit to Namibia on July 9- the first by an Indian Prime Minister in 27 years.
India has long supported Namibia’s independence struggle and has maintained strong economic ties. Trade stands at around $600 million, with Indian investments of nearly $800 million, mostly in minerals like zinc and diamonds.
During the visit, PM Modi will hold bilateral talks with President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah and address Namibia’s Parliament. A key highlight will be a technology agreement enabling unified payment interoperability between the two countries — deepening fintech and digital cooperation.
Namibia’s reserves of uranium, copper, cobalt and rare earths, and recent oil discoveries make it an attractive partner as India diversifies its energy and mineral supplies. The Cheetah translocation project from Namibia to India’s Kuno National Park remains a symbol of trust and collaboration.
I would like to express my gratitude to the CAA, NATS, airlines and airports for the progress they have made in responding to the recommendations which were made by the independent panel. Today’s report confirms the positive approach which has been made in responding to the recommendations by all stakeholders.
NATS has delivered its recommendations with many of these already having been confirmed as completed by the CAA. The CAA expects to have completed validation of all recommendations made to NATS during the summer. Airlines and airports have committed to reviewing their practices for communicating and assisting their passengers during periods of disruption. The CAA are reviewing these plans and will monitor compliance through an extended compliance programme, along with establishing an industry code of conduct. The CAA will continue to hold airlines/airports to account for how they meet their obligations to consumers.
The CAA is making good progress in responding to its recommendations. In particular it has focused its efforts in response to the panel’s recommendations relating to the expansion of its work on improving industry compliance and the rights of aviation consumers. The CAA will commence a programme of work related to the next price control review period for NATS (NR28) which will directly address a number of the recommendations which were made by the panel.
My department remains steadfast in our commitment to delivering on the recommendations which the panel has made for government, and we will make the required legislative reforms on which this is dependent when parliamentary time allows, to ensure air passengers have the highest level of protection possible.
The CAA will provide a further report on progress with the recommendations towards the end of the year. The expectation is that most of the recommendations made by the panel will have been validated and completed by the end of 2026.
Local people in Plymouth are being invited to help shape the future of their city, as part of the Council’s work to develop a proposal for local government reorganisation.
Local government across the country is under immense financial pressure and the government has announced that it wishes to move to a system of unitary councils by removing the two-tier current county/district model that exists in Devon. There is no magic money tree. Without bold reform, councils will struggle to sustain the services people rely on. That’s why Plymouth is taking action — not just to survive, but to thrive.
Local government reorganisation is about more than redrawing boundaries. It’s about securing the future of Plymouth. It’s about building a Plymouth where our children can afford to live, where jobs are plentiful, where neighbourhoods are vibrant, and where services are modern, accessible, and resilient so it can respond to the challenges of the future.
Our proposal for a modest boundary extension to embrace the 13 closest parishes to the city offers a unique opportunity to combine the best of both worlds — we want to create a vibrant city set within a beautiful rural environment of thriving towns and communities, with the highest quality of services delivered across the whole area.
Over the past few weeks, Plymouth City Council has been listening to communities in the South Hams. Now, it’s time for residents within the city to have their say. Five engagement events will take place across Plymouth in the coming weeks, alongside an online survey open to all.
“This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to shape the future of Plymouth,” said Councillor Tudor Evans, Leader of Plymouth City Council. “We’ve already heard from our neighbours in the South Hams — people who care deeply about their local identity, their local voice, and their parish councils. Now, we want to hear from the people who live and work in Plymouth every day.
“We are ambitious for this city and we really think we will be stronger together in this ’new Plymouth’. We have to develop exciting new plans to address the future housing and jobs needs of the city. One example of something we are already working on which shows our ambition are our plans to deliver around 12,000 new homes in the city centre. We’re also driving forward a £6 billion investment pipeline to create 25,000 new jobs and support 1,000 businesses. We’re regenerating neighbourhoods, transforming transport, and investing in schools, health, and culture. From a new NHS dental practice to the £21 million sports and community hub with Plymouth Argyle, we are building a city that works for everyone.”
“But to make all of this possible and more— and to protect the services our residents depend on — we need a local government that’s fit for the future. That’s what this conversation is about. And we want Plymouth people to be part of it.”
Get Involved:
Attend one of five engagement events happening across Plymouth – see the dates below and information for registering.
Lord Mayor, Alderman Stephen Moutray launching the Shop ABC Gift Card with Armagh business owners Ann Doyle and Dessie Feeney.
“We all benefit from a thriving community.”
The new Shop ABC Gift Card can be spent with shops, restaurants, salons, attractions and hotels – it’s available as either a physical or digital card.
A brand-new gift card, exclusively for the Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough, has now gone live, making it easier than ever for people to support local businesses.
Backed by Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, the Shop ABC Gift Card can only be spent with registered businesses in the area, locking spend into local economies and driving footfall.
The Shop ABC Gift Card is available as either a physical card that is swiped at the till or a digital card that is added to digital wallets enabling ‘tap to pay’ technology.
Over 150 businesses across the borough already accept the card with more joining the scheme each day.
Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough, Alderman Stephen Moutray said: “We’re proud to launch the Shop ABC Gift Card to power local economies within our city, town centres and villages. With the card, we have a local option for gifts, rewards and incentives. I encourage everyone to look at how they can use the card for the benefit of our borough, from organisations rewarding staff to charities supporting service users or people buying as gifts for the end of term, birthdays and beyond.”
Local businesses are welcoming the launch of the gift card. Chris Dalzell of Dalzells of Markethill said: “We’re a family run business that has been in operation for almost 70 years, based in a rural location, with delivery across the island of Ireland. Local businesses are the lifeblood of the community, giving their support to all manner of local clubs and charities, and the Shop ABC Gift Card is a fantastic way for people to show their support for local businesses in return. We all benefit from a thriving community. Everything we can do to promote local shopping is hugely positive and we look forward to accepting the new gift card across our full range – home appliances to beds and furniture.”
Another independent business accepting the card is Gasp Boutique owner Ann said: “The boutique is family run with nearly 25 years in Armagh, specialising in casuals, shoes, occasion wear and mother of the bride outfits. Independent businesses all employ local people so the Shop ABC Gift Card that encourages people to shop with their local businesses is brilliant. I like the fact that it will be easy for people to spend like a regular gift card, but locking spend into the area. Many people pay using their phones now, so the digital version is great, especially for encouraging the younger generation to shop local. I’d love to see larger organisations using the card to reward their staff – what a great way to show their support for local.”
Alongside products, Shop ABC Gift Card recipients can also spend their gift card on a range of experiences and services.
Rachel McDonald, practice manager at Mackey Opticians in Portadown commented: “Mackey Opticians is a family run, independent opticians – the largest in Northern Ireland. As soon as I heard about the card, I said ‘sign us up’ because I think it’s a great idea. Not only will it benefit our business it will benefit our neighbouring businesses. And it will be a really nice thing for customers to spend too, both on products and services. The ability to use the Shop ABC Gift Card in a practical way on things like new glasses or an eye test is a huge benefit and means the cards will be well used and ideal as both gifts and corporate rewards. I really like the community feel of it too – the high street is so important, and the Shop ABC Gift Card will help support it.”
Colin Munro, Managing Director of Miconex, said: “Support for local is extremely strong in Northern Ireland with over 92% of people saying it has become more important to them over the past 12 months and 95% believing that more needs to be done to support local businesses. The Shop ABC Gift Card is the ultimate ‘shop local’ Gift Card for the area, and a fun, easy to use way to support local businesses.”
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
HEFEI, July 1 (Xinhua) — A meeting will be held next Monday to establish the International Deep Space Exploration Association (IDSEA), which will be China’s first international aerospace science and technology organization.
The association, which will be headquartered in Hefei, Anhui Province, east China, will aim to build the capacity of other developing countries to develop technologies for deep space exploration.
IDSEA will focus on deep space exploration, which includes exploration of the Moon, other planets and asteroids, and will promote international cooperation.
Wang Zhongmin, director of the International Cooperation Center of the China Deep Space Laboratory, said IDSEA aims to become an inclusive academic platform that will benefit developing countries in particular.
“We are trying to reach out to as many developing countries as possible and, by initiating small-scale but effective programs such as CubeSat satellite development and educational training, we hope to give these countries access to advanced space technologies that were once unavailable to them,” Wang Zhongmin said.
Deep space exploration has long been the preserve of a few countries, primarily due to the significant capital requirements, high demands on technology and specialists. “The vast majority of countries may face a technological monopoly. It is necessary for deep space exploration technologies to go beyond their current limited applications and become generally available, benefiting the entire population of the planet,” Wang Zhongmin noted.
Although China is not a pioneer in space exploration, it has quickly become a significant player in the field, while demonstrating its commitment to cooperation with other countries.
In April this year, China announced that seven institutions from six countries – France, Germany, Japan, Pakistan, Britain and the United States – had received permission to use lunar samples collected by China’s Chang’e-5 mission for scientific research.
The China National Space Administration (CNSA) announced international cooperation opportunities for the Tianwen-3 mission to collect samples from Mars and send them back to Earth in April this year, inviting partners from around the world to jointly advance Mars exploration. The Tianwen-3 mission, an important part of China’s planetary exploration program, is scheduled to launch around 2028, according to the CNSA. Collecting samples from Mars is the most technically challenging space exploration mission since the Apollo program. -0-
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
TOKYO, July 1 (Xinhua) — A man died after being stabbed to death at a law office in Tokyo’s Ikebukuro Ward on Tuesday, local media reported.
The incident occurred at around 11:50 a.m. local time, according to the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department. A man in his 50s, allegedly armed with a knife, attacked one of the officers. He was taken to hospital unconscious and later died, national broadcaster NHK reported.
Following the incident, the suspect surrendered to the police at the nearest police station. He was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder.
Authorities are investigating the cause of the incident. –0–
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
NEW DELHI, July 1 (Xinhua) — At least 35 people were killed and more than 30 injured in a powerful blast at a chemical plant in India’s southern Telangana state, local authorities said on Tuesday.
The death toll rose after more bodies were found buried in the rubble during a rescue operation overnight.
The blast occurred at around 9:48 am local time on Monday in the Pashamilaram industrial area, located about 48 km northwest of Hyderabad, the state capital.
According to police, there were about 150 workers at the plant at the time of the explosion, 90 of whom were in the affected area.
The cause of the explosion has not yet been revealed. Initially, it was assumed that the reactor had exploded. However, officials later denied this claim. –0–
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
HOHHOT, July 1 (Xinhua) — Air China’s C909 passenger jet successfully completed a Hohhot-Ulaanbaatar flight on Tuesday, marking the official launch of the Chinese carrier’s first international route served by the aircraft.
As it became known, flights CA757/8, operated by C909 aircraft, are carried out between the city of Hohhot (the administrative center of the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Republic) and the capital of Mongolia in both directions seven times a week.
“Based on the characteristics of the C909 aircraft, we conducted an in-depth study of flight procedures, runway conditions, navigation equipment, and developed a detailed flight operation process,” said Liu Yongguang, the captain of the aircraft that carried out the first flight on the route.
The C909 is a turbofan regional airliner developed by China itself, seating 78-97 people and having a range of 2,225 km to 3,700 km. It complies with international civil aviation regulations and is the first of its kind independently developed by China.
According to the data, a total of 166 C909 aircraft have been delivered to the market to date, serving more than 700 air routes and carrying more than 24 million passengers.
The C909 was a breakthrough in the commercial operation of domestic jet airliners and explored the development path of the entire life cycle of Chinese-made commercial aircraft, Chen Yong, chief designer of the aircraft, told Xinhua News Agency.
Let us recall that on June 28, the aircraft of this type, previously known as ARJ21, celebrated the ninth anniversary of its first flight. -0-
Source: Rosneft – Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Komsomolsk Oil Refinery (part of the Rosneft oil refining complex) carried out measures at the ELOU-AVT-3 primary oil refining unit, as a result of which the plant’s capacity to produce Arctic diesel fuel of environmental class K5 increased by 20%.
Diesel fuel with a freezing point below minus 55°C is in high demand in the regions of the Far East and the North of Russia to ensure uninterrupted operation of equipment in harsh climatic conditions. The first batches of Arctic fuel of the highest ecological class, produced using the new technology, have already been sent to ensure northern delivery. Fuel DT-A2-K5 has successfully passed a set of necessary tests, confirming compliance with all requirements of Russian and international standards.
Employees of the Komsomolsk Oil Refinery have developed a new process flow chart for selecting the main components for the preparation of diesel fuel, which has increased the share of kerosene fraction from 3% to 6% of the raw materials of the ELOU-AVT-3 unit. In addition, the new flow chart eliminates additional operations for pumping components in the commodity and raw materials shop. The economic effect from the implementation of the measures taken is 25 million rubles per month.
Rosneft pays special attention to improving operational efficiency and identifies technological leadership as a key factor in competitiveness in the oil market.
As a result of the corporate program for modernization of oil refining capacities implemented at the Komsomolsk Oil Refinery, the enterprise has been able to increase the depth of refining to 89% and expand the range of environmentally friendly oil products produced.
Reference:
RN-Komsomolsky Refinery LLC, a subsidiary of Rosneft Oil Company, is the largest oil refining enterprise in Khabarovsk Krai and plays a key role in supplying oil products to the regions of the Far Eastern Federal District.
The product range includes more than 20 items: high-octane gasoline and diesel fuel of environmental class K5, marine fuel RMLS 40 with low sulfur content and other products.
Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft July 1, 2025
Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman John Garamendi – Representing California’s 3rd Congressional District
WASHINGTON DC – Today, Representative John Garamendi (D-CA-8) released the following statement regarding the Israel-Iran conflict.
“America cannot afford to repeat the mistakes of the past. We must not allow Prime Minister Netanyahu to sucker us into another endless Middle East war. We must de-escalate and return to the negotiating table to achieve what we all want: an Iran that never obtains a nuclear weapon.”
“Israel’s attack was a dangerous escalation that has already resulted in the deaths of hundreds of civilians in both Iran and Israel. War with Iran is not in the interest of the United States, and robust diplomacy remains the best option for achieving long-term peace, regional stability and an Iran with no nuclear weapons. Further escalation is a threat to regional stability, risks drawing the U.S. into a wider conflict, and puts thousands of American servicemembers in harm’s way.
“The JCPOA negotiated by President Obama was our best chance at ensuring that Iran could not build a nuclear weapon. Unfortunately, Donald Trump ripped up this critical treaty. Trump may have killed that signature deal that was negotiated by Russia, China, France, the U.K., Germany, the European Union and the United States. There is still room for the administration to negotiate a new deal to prevent Iran from developing a nuclear weapon. We should be focused on reviving diplomatic efforts—not threatening military escalation or considering the use of bunker buster bombs. This is a dangerous path.”
Start-ups secure CivTech 10 contracts to drive innovation.
Thirteen companies will start preparing their products and solutions to public sector challenges for market following the conclusion of this year’s Scottish Government’s CivTech programme.
Having delivered successful pitches at the end of the year-long programme, the companies have now entered the pre-commercialisation stage. They have the opportunity to access up to £7 million in funding to further develop their products and solutions for the public sector, which range from reducing teacher workload to improving firefighter safety.
Since the programme began in 2016, around 100 businesses have progressed through CivTech, with just over £25 million of public sector funding leveraging a further £125 million of private funding.
Many are already driving enhancements across the public sector. CivTech 4 participant Tape4Trees has delivered a revolutionary tree germination and planting system which is saving Forestry and Land Scotland millions of pounds a year while CivTech 9 business Netcompany is developing an innovative digital communication channel which, when fully operational, could save the public sector an estimated £100 million per year.
More start-ups than ever before applied to take part in CivTech 10, which invited business solutions to 12 public sector challenges. Two specific challenges aimed at harnessing Artificial Intelligence (AI) were included for the first time.
Business Minister Richard Lochhead said:
“I want Scotland to be a global digital technology leader. Properly harnessed, we have an opportunity to unlock unprecedented benefits that will have a profound, positive impact on our society and our economy.
“CivTech is recognised internationally as the world’s first successful public sector-focused innovation Accelerator, and as a leader in the rapidly expanding GovTech sector – set to be a trillion-dollar worldwide market.
“Through CivTech we are not only driving economic growth and stimulating the high-growth start-up community, but unlocking solutions that are already delivering benefits and millions of pounds of savings across Scotland’s public sector.
One of the companies to have secured CivTech funding to commercialise its product is Musselburgh-based BobbAI, which is developing an AI-powered assistant to help entrepreneurs and business founders.
BobbAI Co-founder Bayile Adeoti said:
“Taking part in the CivTech Accelerator has been an incredible experience—one that truly pushed me to think outside the box. The support from facilitators and the structure of the programme itself have been second to none. There’s truly nothing like CivTech anywhere else in the world, and it’s a testament to Scotland’s unique commitment to innovation and inclusive tech development.
“As someone passionate about inclusive entrepreneurship, being part of CivTech and creating our solution in alignment with Scotland’s ambitions has been an excellent opportunity. With our Challenge through BobbAI, we’re tackling issues that not only impact Scotland but have the potential for global relevance. As a woman in tech, this journey has allowed me to be a voice for the underrepresented and a role model for those still to come. Most importantly, being part of CivTech made me feel like I truly belonged.”
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) sponsored two CivTech 10 challenges and will continue to work alongside companies in the next phase of product development. UK company Rowden is developing software to improve real-time risk monitoring of incidents while FireHazResearch has set up in Scotland to take forward its software identifying and measuring firefighter exposure to contaminants.
Head of Governance, Strategy and Performance at SFRS Richard Whetton said:
“SFRS have found the CivTech programme hugely beneficial in allowing us to consider and begin to develop innovative solutions for two difficult problems we have been facing.
“Both of our challenges are now progressing towards the pre-commercial stage and we are excited to work with our challenge companies to develop minimum viable products intended to enhance firefighter safety and benefit communities of Scotland.
“The CivTech programme team have been exceptional in supporting SFRS to achieve these positive outcomes and we look forward to continuing our work on this innovative programme.”
The future of the historic St Albans Mayoralty and the creation of a new parish council would be considered in a review of how the District is governed at a local level.
The Mayoralty dates back to 1553 with its long-standing civic and ceremonial duties protected by statute.
Since St Albans City and District Council was created in 1974, the office holder has been a District Councillor.
However, the Mayoralty’s future is now uncertain as the Council will be abolished under Government plans and merged with neighbouring councils to form a new unitary authority by May 2028.
A proposed community governance review by St Albans Council would explore ways of preserving the Mayoralty and examine whether a new parish council covering a large, unparished section of St Albans should be set up.
The review was recommended by the Strategy and Resources Committee at its meeting on Thursday 26 June and was previously supported by the City Neighbourhoods Committee.
Full Council will now decide at its July meeting whether to go ahead with the review.
Much of St Albans District has a parish or town council which organises community events and looks after assets such as open spaces, play areas and allotments.
There are nine such councils in the District: Harpenden, Harpenden Rural, Redbourn, Wheathampstead, London Colney, Sandridge, Colney Heath, St Michael and St Stephen.
However, much of the City is unparished including around 28,000 households in Batchwood, Bernards Heath, Clarence, Cunningham, Hill End, Marshalswick West, Sopwell, St Peters and Verulam wards.
The review would follow the Government’s decision to reorganise local government at District and County level and create unitary authorities in place of the current two-tier system.
In Hertfordshire, for example, this is likely to result in between two and four unitary councils, each responsible for most local government functions.
This will replace the current system of one County Council and ten District/Borough Councils with each tier having different responsibilities.
Councillor Paul De Kort, St Albans Council Leader and Chair of the Strategy and Resources Committee, said:
One of the many challenging tasks we are now faced with is the Government’s reorganisation of district and county councils.
Over the next few years much of our senior officers’ time, focus and resources has to be diverted to dealing with the many complex issues that arise from this.
The Government has said little about their plans for parish councils, but they form an important part of our local government system and should not be forgotten.
This seems the right moment to re-examine our current parish and town council arrangements in detail to see if improvements are necessary. I hope Full Council will accept the recommendation for the community governance review.
In particular, we want to find out what the options are for continuing with the St Albans Mayoralty.
We also want to see if there is an appetite for a new parish council among our residents in the unparished area. We need to look at the potential benefits to residents, the cost of creating a new council and its future funding.
Such a parish council could eventually provide a home, as it were, for the Mayor of St Albans at some point after the District Council is abolished.
St Albans Council set up the City Neighbourhoods Committee some years ago to cover the unparished area. Its members include both Councillors and local people co-opted onto the Committee from residents’ association committees in the unparished area.
The City Neighbourhoods Committee (CNC) oversees some community assets and has agreed to use its budget to help pay for the governance review, estimated to cost between £60,000 and £80,000.
Councillor Robert Donald, CNC Chair, said:
The City Neighbourhoods Committee unanimously supported the need for a community governance review and its central tasks of looking at the setting up of a new parish council for the unparished area of St Albans and preserving the Mayoralty.
Setting up a new parish council has been talked about for many years, but this proposition has never progressed as on balance it was regarded as an unnecessary tier of government given the role and location of the District Council.
Now, however, CNC members realise that St Albans City could lose its Mayor which it has enjoyed since 1553.
If we do nothing, residents might also find in 2028 that the City’s community assets, facilities and events are run by a unitary authority, covering a wide geographical area with its HQ located some distance away from St Albans.
Every other part of our District already has a parish or town council but our City does not have this democratic form of local government.
In view of this, we must urgently consider setting up a town council to run the City’s facilities and events as well as representing its residents’ needs and acting as the community’s democratic voice in future.
A community governance review will consider this and look at other governance options.
The Mayor is elected at St Albans City and District Council’s annual meeting in May and chairs Full Council meetings.
They also represent the City and the Council at various events, raise funds for charity and support local voluntary groups.
The office’s civic and ceremonial functions were established in various Royal Charters and Letters Patent.
A future option could be to create Charter Trustees, comprising Councillors from the new local authority whose wards lie within the historic boundaries of the Mayoralty.
They would then take on the role of preserving the City’s civic tradition, either on a permanent or transitional basis.
Manchester city centre was filled with gratitude and celebration today as hundreds of Mancunians came out to honour the fearless bravery and sacrifice of the UK’s armed forces during a spectacular Armed Forces Day event.
From the energetic routine of the LA Band’s opening performance to the stirring sounds of the Lancashire Army Artillery Band that travelled throughout St Peter’s Square and beyond, it was a day that called for everyone’s undivided admiration.
Crowds were quickly transfixed by the vibrant parade which featured serving personnel, veterans, and cadets marching shoulder to shoulder in a powerful display of unity, respect and tradition.
A poignant formal inspection was led by the Lord Mayor of Manchester, Councillor Carmine Grimshaw, alongside other dignitaries. Followed by the Deputy Lieutenant’s heartfelt speech which resonated deeply with the crowd, setting the tone for a day of reflection and honourary celebration. Councillor Tommy Judge and the Deputy Lieutenant of Greater Manchester were just some of the esteemed guests who also paid tribute.
Members of the public shared their own touching odes as part of the “Thank You for Your Service” campaign which broadcasted video tributes throughout the day and were even given the chance to contribute their own messages of appreciation, spanning across generations. The special campaign was also a part of marking the 80th anniversaries of Victory in Europe (VE Day) and Victory over Japan (VJ Day).
Visitors enjoyed a rich programme of activities, including live music hosted by BBC Radio DJ Michelle Dignan, historic military displays, and interactive stalls from the NHS, Royal British Legion, and Manchester City Council’s Armed Forces Covenant to further support the armed forces community.
Councillor Tommy Judge, Leader Member for Armed Forces, said: “Today, Manchester came together not just to remember, but to celebrate the courage, dedication, and resilience of our armed forces community – both past and present. The turnout was incredible, and the atmosphere was one of heartfelt gratitude and community pride.”
Over 300 teachers, headteachers, governors, and education professionals from across Derby came together at Pride Park Stadium on 26 June for the Because School Means More Inclusion Conference—a powerful and inspiring day dedicated to celebrating and advocating for inclusive education.
Hosted by The Inclusion Partnership, the event brought Derby city schools into the spotlight, showcasing what inclusion looks like when it is embedded, and the positive impact that it is having.
The event featured a standout keynote address from Richard Gerver, acclaimed speaker and former headteacher, who used the power of story to challenge delegates to be brave and build a more inclusive culture.
Throughout the day, participants engaged in live podcast interviews, attended interactive workshops, and explored a vibrant inclusion marketplace featuring resources, tools and local support networks.
Major highlights were the launch of the Because School Means More podcast and the unveiling of the Inclusion Partnership’s 5-Year Inclusion Movement Strategy. Recorded with the help of education experts and leaders, the new podcast is set to tackle topics ranging from emotionally based school non-attendance, to inclusive play and relational approaches, underscoring the important theme of inclusion.
This complements the objectives of the Inclusion Movement Strategy, which sets out a bold roadmap for inclusive practice across Derby schools.
Jo Wilkinson, Inclusion Partnership Manager, said:
This is a cornerstone event for us each year. We are really excited by the momentum it’s gained, and the impact created. This year we had even more delegates in a packed room, showing their commitment to inclusive practice.
We saw schools, services and organisations come together to commit to inclusion not as an add-on, but as a foundation for everything they do.
The atmosphere was lifted by a powerful performance from the Inclusion Choir, made up of pupils from Chellaston Academy, Hardwick Primary, St James Juniors, and St Giles Special School, who moved the audience with their renditions of ‘We Are the Young’ and ‘Stand By Me’.
Phil Smith, Chair of the Inclusion Strategy Group and Headteacher of Chellaston Academy, was delighted with the enthusiasm and ideas generated during the day:
To have so many colleagues from the education sector sharing their passion for inclusion can only benefit our young. Today has been amazing on so many levels, but in particular for schools across our region to share innovative and effective practice, as well as share a desire to become more inclusive.
In the afternoon, a series of practical workshops gave delegates the opportunity to dig deeper into strategies for inclusive teaching, leadership, and relationship-building in schools.
The event marked a major step forward for Derby’s growing Inclusion Movement—bringing people together to create schools where every child feels they belong.
Councillor Paul Hezelgrave, Derby City Council Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Skills, said of the conference:
This has been an inspirational and encouraging day of sharing ideas, knowledge and experience in the united aim of creating an inclusive school system. We’re lucky to have so many passionate and dedicated education professionals working in Derby – people who care deeply about making sure that our children are supported and made to feel a part of their school community.
Hearing about the plans for further work to make this a reality for every child gives me great hope for the future of Derby’s young people.
New measures to protect UK from covert foreign influence came into effect on 1 July, strengthening national security, part of the Plan for Change.
National security will be bolstered as the Foreign Influence Registration Scheme launches today, one of the foundations of the government’s Plan for Change.
This landmark measure introduces an unprecedented enhanced tier, protecting our economy and society from covert activities by Iran and Russia. It also introduces a new layer of accountability around political influencing activity shedding light on attempts by overseas powers to shape UK democratic processes.
As part of the toolkit in the National Security Act 2023, FIRS will provide an unprecedented insight into covert attempts by overseas powers to influence UK democratic processes, help protect our institutions from covert interference and enhance the UK’s ability to understand and respond to threats against its democratic integrity and national security.
FIRS is a two-tier scheme: the political tier requires registration of any arrangements to carry out political influence activities in the UK on behalf of a foreign power, including political communications or lobbying senior decision-makers, such as MPs and election candidates.
A more stringent enhanced tier applies to foreign powers considered to pose a risk to the UK’s safety or interests – the whole of the Russian and Iranian states have been placed under this tier, after being approved by Parliament. This was in response to the serious threats they pose to our interests, and reflects the need to ensure transparency over covert influence activity directed by these states.
Security Minister, Dan Jarvis, said:
We welcome legitimate engagement with all countries, but we will not tolerate covert attempts to manipulate our political system or society.
The Foreign Influence Registration Scheme gives us the tools to confront growing threats to our national security, one of the foundations of our Plan for Change, without compromising the openness that defines our democracy.
Designating Russia and Iran under the enhanced tier is a vital step in protecting the safety and interests of the UK. This is about creating accountability and visibility so that covert influence operations have nowhere to hide, and ensuring we have the tools to detect and disrupt them.
These specifications will require the registration of any activities carried out in the UK at the direction of any part of the Russian or Iranian states. This explicitly includes their intelligence services – such as the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps, the Ministry of Intelligence and Security (MOIS), the Federal Security Service and the GRU – as well as both countries’ armed forces.
Registering under FIRS does not mean that an arrangement is illegitimate, or the activities are undesirable. In addition, it does not mean that the registrant needs to cease, or seek approval for, their activities. However, those who seek to act covertly for foreign powers will now face a choice – register under the scheme or risk prosecution.
Registrations under the political tier must be submitted within 28 days of the arrangement being made. For the enhanced tier, registrations must be submitted within 10 days of the arrangement being made and ahead of any activity being undertaken. Failure to register when required is a criminal offence.
To ensure the scheme is proportionate, FIRS includes exemptions, including for recognised news publishers, legal professionals acting during legal proceedings or providing legal advice, diplomats and their families, and arrangements involving the UK government.
National Security is at the centre of the UK’s domestic and international policy and is the foundation of the government’s Plan for Change. FIRS is a key part of our national security toolkit, and delivers on our ambition to make our country a harder operating environment for hostile actors.
It puts the UK at the forefront of international efforts to deter and disrupt covert foreign influence, and its world-leading tiers will address wider threats to our safety – strengthening our ability to identify and respond to activity that threatens our democratic integrity.
Following the announcement from Stagecoach that their bus services to Nairn’s Lochloy estate will be withdrawn from Monday 7 July, The Highland Council’s In-house Bus team have amended their Nairn Town service timetable to include Lochloy, ensuring residents still have access to a bus service.
Chair of the Council’s Economy and Infrastructure Committee, Councillor Ken Gowans said: ““I’m delighted that our In-house bus team has been able to react so quickly and positively to the news that Stagecoach are withdrawing their service that connects the Lochloy community with the town centre and Sainsbury’s.
“When we set up our In-House bus service, we said one of its strengths would be the ability to be flexible and to react to customer demands, so I look forward to seeing our buses providing this extended service in Nairn.”
Following requests from the community, the revised timetable will also include the Tradespark estate allowing residents a direct service from Nairn Hospital.
This extended 251 service will run Monday to Friday and will start on Friday 4 July to coincide with the school holidays. The new route will take passengers to and from Sainsbury’s Nairn to Lochloy, Nairn High Street, Nairn hospital, Tradespark and Achareidh.
All updated timetables can be found on the Council’s website.