Category: Europe

  • MIL-OSI Russia: NSU will be the first in Russia to conduct pharmacological research using accelerator mass spectrometry

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –

    A new research area, Innovative Biomaterials and Methods of Their Research, is being opened at the NSU-NNC Collective Use Center for Accelerator Mass Spectrometry. The work will be carried out within the framework of the strategic project, Center for the Integration of Personalized Biomedicine, Pharmacy, and Synchrotron Binary Technologies, which received support from the Priority 2030 state program.

    For the first time in Russia, the method of accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS) will be used to study the pharmacokinetics of peptides, hemostatic composites and structural analysis of fossil tissues. The long-term result of the project will be the creation of a standardized approach to assessing the transdermal delivery of peptides, accelerating the development of new therapeutic agents and increasing the accuracy of predicting their clinical effectiveness, creating and introducing new synthetic functional materials for medical use, such as hemostatic materials and selective hemosorbents. Previously, this high-tech research method was used mainly for radiocarbon dating of archaeological finds, geological objects and paleontological samples.

    Accelerative masses of spectrometry (UMS) – a supers -sensitive method of absolute measurement of isotopic relations, based on the calculation of single atoms. Of greatest interest for medical research are the capabilities of the UMS in the registration of radioglerod-S-14. The accuracy of the method is so high that it allows you to carry out reliable measurements of the concentration of the S-14 isotope with its share of 1E-15 from the total carbon content. The unsurpassed sensitivity of the UMS gives a number of advantages, such as a small amount of test for analysis and the possibility of analyzing a carbon -containing sample located in any aggregate state. Therefore, for UMS-analysis in the simplest performance, about 2-4 mg of dry matter, 10 mg of a sample of biological tissues and less than 50 μl of fluid will be required. Due to the extremely small content of the radiocarod in the biosphere, the isotopic ratio of the S-14/S-12 is 1E-12-the radioactivity of the laid drugs necessary for accurate registration by the UMS method is several times less than the natural level of radiation. This allows you to safely conduct multiple studies, including involving children as subjects, which is very important when developing children’s forms of drugs due to significant differences in metabolism in adults and children. Currently, the world has accumulated a large array of data on the use of UMS in clinical studies of drugs to select personalized assistance to cancer patients, new drugs developed with the use of UMS are received on the market.

    There are about 200 UMS installations in the world, and about 30 large UMS centers with two or more installations. In Russia, there is only one such center — the UMS Center of Collective Use of the NSU-NNC, which has two accelerator mass spectrometers — the first domestic high-voltage one, developed by scientists from the G.I. Budker Institute of Nuclear Physics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences 15 years ago, and a low-voltage MICADAS, manufactured in Switzerland. The center conducts research, most of which is aimed at radiocarbon dating of various objects, for customers from all over Russia, as well as from Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, North Korea, Transnistria, etc. Most of the customers are scientific organizations, research institutes, and universities.

    — Our UMS center is registered in the international database of radiocarbon laboratories as “AMS Golden Valley” and successfully passed GIRI certification in 2022. Over the years of our work, we have conducted more than 10 thousand UMS analyses, with the measurement results published more than 80 scientific articles, including in the Nature publishing group, and annually fulfilled more than 40 contracts for UMS measurements. There is a scientific reserve for introducing a radiocarbon label into organic compounds (styrene) and materials (polymer nano- and microspheres), into the composition of the viral membrane, as well as for studying the distribution of toxic substances and the penetrating ability of aerosol particles in organs, — says Ekaterina Parkhomchuk, Director of the UMS Center of Collective Use at NSU-NNC.

    The new direction of research work implies active participation of students and young scientists willing to do scientific work in this field. Students will be involved in sample preparation procedures, as well as in studying hemostatics. Young scientists will work in a single team with experienced researchers and experts in the field of UMS application.

    — Within the framework of this direction, we intend to orient our UMS installations towards use in the field of biomedicine. For example, to create labeled compounds for medical purposes for the purpose of further studying their distribution and biological action in a living organism. The sensitivity of the UMS method significantly exceeds the capabilities of other methods for determining isotopic ratios. Such studies are rare and complex, and no one else conducts them in Russia. For example, studying the depth of penetration of a drug through the skin, its effectiveness at various stages of diseases, and routes of elimination from the body. Such work has already been carried out by specialists from our center, and we try to involve students and postgraduates in them, — explained Ekaterina Parkhomchuk.

    It is planned that medical centers, pharmaceutical companies and research institutes will be involved in the cooperation.

    It is already known that one of the first projects will be the assessment of transdermal delivery of peptides – organic substances formed by amino acid chains. The effectiveness of their impact with this route of delivery to the body has not been fully studied due to the lack of reliable methods for studying this process. UMS research can fill the gap and provide an answer to this question.

    Along with projects in the field of pharmacology and innovative medicine, the research staff of the NSU-NNC UMS Collective Use Center will continue to work on radiocarbon dating of archaeological and paleontological materials in the same volume, since the need for these studies among scientists of many specialties – archaeologists, soil scientists, paleontologists and geologists – remains very high.

    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.

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-Evening Report: Unsafe and unethical: bed shortages mean dementia patients with psychiatric symptoms are admitted to medical wards

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Cindy Towns, Senior Lecturer in General Medicine and Geriatrics, University of Otago

    Getty Images

    New Zealand’s mental health crisis is well documented in the government’s 2018 inquiry, He Ara Oranga, which shows one in five people experience mental illness or significant mental distress.

    However, an almost singular focus on care of young people obscures the psychiatric needs of older adults.

    Failure to account for these needs has resulted in physicians facing pressure to admit psychiatric patients to medical wards that are not designed or resourced to care for them. This compromises patient safety and rights as well as fundamental standards of care.

    Our new research highlights the clinical, ethical and legal consequences of this practice and calls for urgent action.

    Dementia includes psychiatric features

    The memory deficits of dementia are well known but the condition also includes psychiatric presentations. These are known collectively as the “behavioural and psychiatric symptoms of dementia” (BPSD). When severe, they can include intrusive behaviour, violence and inappropriate sexual conduct. Such patients require admission and specialist treatment.

    However, New Zealand has a severe shortage of psychiatric beds for older adults. Even more concerning is that despite well recognised demographic trends and clinical concerns, bed numbers have decreased over time rather than increased.

    Reports that Dunedin plans to slash the number of psycho-geriatric beds by 50% reflect a lack of government insight into the risks this large and growing patient cohort poses.

    Hospitals routinely expect medical wards to admit dementia patients presenting with BPSD when no psycho-geriatric bed is available. Yet it is impossible for staff on medical wards to adhere to even basic standards of care.

    Poor design

    A lack of single rooms means medical teams cannot provide the security and minimisation of light and noise people with dementia require. Single rooms need to be prioritised for transmissible infections, delirium and terminal care.

    Medical wards are also not designed for aggressive patients. People can enter and exit freely, potential weapons (scissors, for example) are accessible, there are no seclusion rooms or low-stimulus areas, and nursing stations are not secure.

    Medical staff are not trained in de-escalation or restraint and ward pharmacists are not specialised in the medications required to treat BPSD.

    Those presenting with physical or sexual violence also need dedicated security, well beyond what healthcare assistants on “patient watches” can provide. Most healthcare assistants are women, which creates a grossly inadequate level of safety when managing violent male patients.

    The experience of Wellington general medicine staff documents numerous assaults on nurses and intrusive and frightening behaviour. Staff have been punched, hit, bitten and threatened. One nurse was stabbed while attending to another patient in a multi-bed room.

    Admissions have included physically robust patients who have seriously assaulted family or carers. This includes one man who committed a fatal assault and another who was sexually aggressive and stabbed a family member.

    High rates of mixed-gender bedding in hospital wards raise the risk of harm. The United Kingdom banned hospitals from placing men and women in the same room in 2010. Yet despite concerns for patient safety, New Zealand has no prohibition on this practice.

    Poor policy

    By comparison, Australia proposed a risk stratification approach more than 20 years ago whereby severe dementia patients would be managed in secure units with dedicated security staff and specialist psycho-geriatric care.

    This model is used throughout Australia in policy and planning. In New Zealand, severe dementia is defaulted to medical wards even in cases where patients are presenting solely due to extreme violence.

    According to the Code of Health and Disability Services Consumers’ Rights, patients are entitled to an appropriate standard of care. Admitting someone with dementia to medical wards that cannot meet basic standards of care clearly breaches this right.

    BPSD admissions also significantly compromise the rights of other patients. The risks are again demonstrable rather than potential. International media reports have documented male dementia patients assaulting female patients in medical wards without the necessary security measures.

    Medical staff in New Zealand hospitals have also witnessed numerous incidents of intrusion and harassment as well as assaults of other patients by dementia patients inappropriately admitted to medical wards with BPSD.

    We should also recognise indirect impacts of people with severe dementia being admitted on medical wards. Many patients wait overnight for admission, increasing their risk for complications, and breaching rights to privacy and dignity.

    When psychiatric patients occupy medical beds, they contribute to admission delays, complications and rights breaches for medical patients awaiting beds.

    Urgent need for more psycho-geriatric beds

    Wellington general medicine teams have raised serious concerns about dementia admissions for many years. Yet there are no secure areas and no additional psycho-geriatric beds.

    We need to ask why the practice continues when harm is so obvious. The answer appears to be about cost. When physicians relent and admit psychiatric patients, the risks are high but the financial cost is low. The consequences are born by elderly and frail patients seldom able to advocate for themselves.

    Change relies on health leaders and funders caring about safety, rights and basic standards of care. Unfortunately, the Wellington experience and the decision to cut beds in Dunedin suggest change will not happen unless physicians consistently refuse the admission of psychiatric patients. But this is a morally distressing position to be put in.

    New Zealand must urgently address the shortage of psycho-geriatric beds. Until these are in place, temporary secure accommodation must be made available under the care of mental health specialists.

    Medical teams can no longer be expected to manage the mental health crisis as well as their own medical workloads. It is unsafe, unethical and untenable for all involved.

    Cindy Towns does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    ref. Unsafe and unethical: bed shortages mean dementia patients with psychiatric symptoms are admitted to medical wards – https://theconversation.com/unsafe-and-unethical-bed-shortages-mean-dementia-patients-with-psychiatric-symptoms-are-admitted-to-medical-wards-257634

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The government has established the Day of Russian Advocacy.

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The decision was made on the instructions of the President.

    Document

    Resolution of June 25, 2025 No. 958

    The professional holiday – Russian Advocacy Day – will now be officially celebrated on May 31. The decree establishing it was signed by Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin.

    This date has informally become established in the legal community as a professional holiday. It was on this day in 2002 that the Federal Law “On Advocacy and the Bar in the Russian Federation” was signed, laying down the basic principles of the organization and activities of the modern legal profession.

    In addition, as is now tradition, at the end of May the Federal Chamber of Advocates and regional chambers of advocates hold the “Advocates for Citizens” campaign – days of free legal assistance to all citizens who apply for legal assistance.

    Establishing a professional holiday at the official level will emphasize the importance of advocacy as a public-legal institution of the Russian legal system and its high public-legal significance for Russian statehood.

    The Ministry of Justice initiated this decision. The proposal was supported by the President.

    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.

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Shandong Province’s Caoxian County: Hanfu Industry Becomes New Driver of Rural Revitalization

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    Caoxian County, Heze City, is located in the southwest of Shandong Province, bordering Henan Province. It is one of the production and sales bases of traditional Chinese costumes (hanfu) in China. Currently, there are more than 2,750 hanfu production enterprises, about 15,000 online stores, and about 100,000 workers in the county. The annual sales volume of hanfu is about 12 billion yuan, making this industry a new engine for local income growth and rural revival.

    Relying on hanfu production and e-commerce, Caoxian County has formed a complete industrial chain covering original R&D, design and production, copyright protection, cutting, embroidery and printing, show and exhibition, and online marketing. At present, the hanfu industry in Caoxian County is rapidly developing towards scale, branding, and high-quality production. Hanfu, mainly mamianqun skirts, are sold to more than 10 countries and regions around the world, including Australia, Canada, and the European Union.

    Photos by a Xinhua News Agency correspondent.

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Flights between China’s Kunming and Myanmar’s Mandalay, disrupted by earthquake, have resumed

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    KUNMING, June 30 (Xinhua) — Flights in both directions between Kunming, capital of southwest China’s Yunnan Province, and Mandalay in Myanmar, which were suspended in March due to a powerful earthquake, resumed on Sunday.

    According to the Yunnan branch of China Eastern Airlines, flights MU2029/MU2030 on the Kunming-Mandalay route are operated by Boeing 737 aircraft. The schedule remains the same: four round-trip flights on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays.

    Flights were suspended after a magnitude 7.9 earthquake struck Myanmar on March 28. The natural disaster damaged many facilities, including the infrastructure of the Mandalay airport.

    China Eastern Airlines expressed confidence that the resumption of air traffic will have a positive impact on bilateral trade, cultural and people-to-people exchanges, and cooperation in post-disaster recovery between China and Myanmar, and will strengthen ties between Yunnan Province and Southeast Asia.

    The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) remained China’s largest trading partner in January-May. During this period, trade turnover between the two sides reached 3.02 trillion yuan (about 422 billion US dollars), an increase of 9.1 percent compared to the same period last year. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: 11 killed, seven injured in Sudan gold mine collapse

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    KHARTOUM, June 30 (Xinhua) — At least 11 people were killed and seven injured when a shaft collapsed at a gold mine in northeastern Sudan, state-owned Mineral Resources said Sunday.

    The incident occurred at the Kersh al-Fil mine in the Huwaid region, between the cities of Atbara and Haya, the company said in a statement, without giving a date for the collapse.

    The company said the mine had previously been closed for safety reasons.

    The company promised to continue monitoring mining operations and improve safety standards, calling on miners to comply with safety and environmental regulations.

    Traditional mining accounts for a significant share of Sudan’s gold production, but the sector is prone to accidents due to poor safety standards and outdated infrastructure.

    About 1.5 million prospectors mine almost 80 percent of Sudan’s gold, which was officially estimated to be about 64 tons in 2024. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: To the staff of the Saratov State Art Museum named after A.N. Radishchev.

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    On June 29, 2025, the museum will celebrate its 140th anniversary.

    Dear friends!

    I congratulate you on this significant event – the 140th anniversary of the founding of the Saratov State Art Museum named after A.N. Radishchev.

    Today it is one of the largest museums in our country, a scientific, cultural and educational center. Unique works of Russian and European art from different eras are carefully preserved here. Large-scale exhibition projects are implemented, which give visitors the opportunity to see masterpieces created by great masters.

    The highly professional team deserves special words of gratitude. Responsible, caring people, devoted to their work, you multiply museum traditions, conduct extensive research, restoration and educational activities. It is important that the creative development of children and youth is a priority for you. You introduce young people to the rich historical and cultural heritage of Russia, instill love for the Motherland.

    I wish you further success, new achievements, health, happiness and prosperity.

    M. Mishustin

    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.

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: On June 30, Mikhail Mishustin will meet with members of the Council of the Chamber of the Council of the Federation of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The event will be attended by First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov, Deputy Prime Minister – Chief of the Government Staff Dmitry Grigorenko, Deputy Prime Ministers Tatyana Golikova, Alexander Novak, Dmitry Patrushev, Vitaly Savelyev, Marat Khusnullin, Minister of Economic Development Maxim Reshetnikov, Minister of Finance Anton Siluanov, Chairperson of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly Valentina Matviyenko, First Deputy Chairmen of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly Vladimir Yakushev, Andrey Yatskin, Deputy Chairmen of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly Nikolay Zhuravlev, Konstantin Kosachev, Inna Svyatenko.

    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.

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese Kung Fu dance drama captivates Romanian audience

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

    Members of the Longyun Martial Arts Group stage a special performance of the Chinese Kung Fu dance drama “11 Warriors” at Bucharest National Opera House in celebration of the International Day of Dialogue among Civilizations in Bucharest, Romania, June 28, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    A special performance of the Chinese Kung Fu dance drama “11 Warriors” captivated audiences at the Bucharest National Opera House on Saturday evening, in celebration of the International Day of Dialogue among Civilizations.

    Co-organized by the Chinese Embassy in Romania, the Bucharest Chinese Cultural Center, and the Romania-China House, the event drew more than 900 attendees, including diplomats, cultural officials, and public figures.

    Members of the Longyun Martial Arts Group stage a special performance of the Chinese Kung Fu dance drama “11 Warriors” at Bucharest National Opera House in celebration of the International Day of Dialogue among Civilizations in Bucharest, Romania, June 28, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    The performance was presented by the Longyun Martial Arts Group, founded by renowned Chinese film star Jackie Chan. Blending martial arts, modern dance, and multimedia, the production traces the evolution of Chinese Kung Fu-from its origins in combat to its philosophical and spiritual depth.

    At the conclusion of the show, the audience gave a standing ovation lasting over 10 minutes. “We were overwhelmed,” said performer Cao Jialong. “It made us proud to see Chinese culture embraced so warmly on the world stage.”

    Members of the Longyun Martial Arts Group stage a special performance of the Chinese Kung Fu dance drama “11 Warriors” at Bucharest National Opera House in celebration of the International Day of Dialogue among Civilizations in Bucharest, Romania, June 28, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Irina Cajal, undersecretary of state at the Romanian Ministry of Culture, hailed the performance as “a shining example of professionalism,” calling it “both professional and academic” and “one of the most impressive performances” she had ever seen.

    “I’m sure that in the future, collaborations like this will continue,” she added. “For years, the cooperation between Romania and China has been strong, and this is a major achievement for both sides.”

    Members of the Longyun Martial Arts Group stage a special performance of the Chinese Kung Fu dance drama “11 Warriors” at Bucharest National Opera House in celebration of the International Day of Dialogue among Civilizations in Bucharest, Romania, June 28, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Audience member and martial arts practitioner Maxine Yanscu echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the cultural significance of the art form. “Martial arts represent many of the core values and principles of Chinese culture,” she said. “They express that beautifully through movement.”

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI China: China lose to Canada at Men’s Volleyball Nations League

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

    The Chinese team lost 3-0 to Canada in the 2025 Men’s Volleyball Nations League (VNL) Chicago leg on Sunday.

    In the first set, the two teams were tied from 1-1 to 12-12 before Canada pulled away with five straight points to lead 17-12. China closed the gap to 20-21 with blocks from Zhang Zhejia and Li Yongzhen and powerful attacks by Jiang Chuan. However, Canada held on to take the set 25-23 with strong serving and offense.

    Jiang Chuan (R) of China spikes during the Pool 5 match between China and Canada at the Men’s Volleyball Nations League (VNL) 2025 in Chicago, the United States, June 29, 2025. (Photo by Joel Lerner/Xinhua)

    China fell behind 4-7 in the second set but responded with four straight points to lead 8-7. The teams stayed close until 16-16, when Canada pulled ahead to win 25-20. China committed more errors, saw a drop in offensive efficiency, and struggled to contain Canada’s momentum.

    In the third set, China trailed 6-1 early but narrowed the gap to 8-7 before losing steam. Led by captain Jiang Chuan, the team rallied to 19-17, but Canada held on to win the set 25-23 and seal the match.

    Zhang Jingyin missed the match due to a knee injury, while Jiang Chuan returned to the starting lineup. China had opportunities to tie or take the lead in both the first and third sets but fell short in key moments.

    The team continues to face challenges with first-pass stability, quick-attack execution from middle blockers, and setter variation.

    Ranked 11th in the world, Canada holds a clear advantage over 24th-ranked China. This latest defeat marks China’s fourth straight loss to Canada, compounding a psychological disadvantage.

    Jiang expressed his frustration. “Losing four matches in the Chicago leg is a wake-up call. We need to change some things in the next leg and strive for better performance,” he said.

    “We didn’t play our best match. One or two players did a good job, a lot of players could not bring what they can do,” said China’s Belgian head coach Vital Heynen. “But (for sports) sometimes you don’t play as good as you are. We have to accept.”

    “Seeing our whole situation, injuries, putting players coming back, some players have to take a lot of loads who are not used to do that, and cannot always bring that, that’s normal,” Heynen said. “I blame myself and the team, like we together are not good enough.”

    “I think every match is so difficult for us. So we will try next week to win at least one match, to have at least a good ending of this VNL.”

    Five national teams from China, the United States, Brazil, Italy and Canada competed in the Chicago leg of the 2025 VNL. China lost all four of its matches.

    The VNL group stage spans three weeks, with Chicago hosting the second week. The third week will take place in Gdansk, Poland; Ljubljana, Slovenia; and the Kanto region of Japan. The finals are scheduled for July 30 to August 3 in Ningbo Beilun, east China’s Zhejiang Province. 

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s homegrown C909 breaking new ground in regional aviation

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

    A C909 jetliner lands at Con Dao Airport, Vietnam, April 19, 2025. (Xinhua)

    China’s commercial jetliner C909, formerly known as ARJ21, celebrated the 9th anniversary of its maiden flight on Saturday.

    With a layout of 78 to 97 seats, and a range of 2,225 to 3,700 km, the C909 is the first short-medium range turbofan regional aircraft independently developed by China in accordance with international civil aviation regulations.

    A total of 166 C909 aircraft have been delivered to the market, which have operated on more than 700 routes and transported over 24 million passengers.

    The C909 has achieved a breakthrough in the commercial operation of homegrown jetliners and explored a development path for their entire life cycle, its chief designer Chen Yong told Xinhua in an interview.

    Linking border cities

    The C909 aircraft have been deployed in China’s border regions, such as Xinjiang, the northeast and Inner Mongolia. By expanding the regional air route network, they have enhanced travel convenience, supported population mobility, and spurred local economic development.

    According to Chen, who also serves as chief engineer at Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China Ltd., the developer of the C909, since the jetliner’s debut in Xinjiang in June 2023, a total of such 22 aircraft have been put into local operation, opening more than 120 routes and safely transporting over 1.3 million passengers.

    In June 2025, as Xinjiang entered its peak tourist season, four daily round-trip flights began operating between the popular destinations of Kashgar and Yining, serviced by C909 aircraft from Chengdu Airlines and China Express.

    “We have received feedback from airlines such as Chengdu Airlines, indicating that in terms of flight performance, they are very well-suited to the operating environment in places like Xinjiang,” Chen said.

    The jetliners have also been deployed on international routes. The first C909 international service, connecting Harbin in northeast China and Vladivostok in Russia, was launched on Oct. 26, 2019. These routes have further facilitated economic, cultural and tourism exchanges and integration between cities on both sides of the border.

    Southeast Asia expansion

    On April 18, 2023, the C909 completed its maiden flight in Indonesia, marking the launch of regional routes between the islands and expanding to cross-border trunk routes. Notably, the Manado-Guangzhou route, covering over 2,700 km, is currently the longest commercial route operated by the C909 aircraft.

    Chen Yong said that with its excellent airport and route adaptability, as well as passenger comfort, the C909 is well-suited to meet the operational needs of Southeast Asia’s aviation market. The aircraft has pioneered a new business model for domestic passenger planes in the region by being leased to airlines through both dry and wet lease agreements.

    Dry lease means that the lessor only provides the aircraft, while wet lease refers to the lessor providing not only the aircraft but also flight crew, safety management, maintenance and operational control.

    For example, the two C909 that Chengdu Airlines has wet leased to Vietnam’s Vietjet Air operate daily flights from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to Con Dao, respectively.

    “The Con Dao Airport runway is only over 1,800 meters long and bordered by the sea at both ends. This has fully verified the C909’s operational capability on short and narrow runways and its adaptability to the humid environment in Southeast Asia,” Chen explained.

    To date, three Southeast Asian airlines — TransNusa of Indonesia, Lao Airlines and Vietjet Air — operate a total of seven C909 aircraft. They have launched 15 routes connecting 18 cities and have transported over 370,000 passengers.

    Variant types

    The development of aircraft variants is a feature of the commercial aircraft industry. At present, four variants of the C909 jetliner have been made public, namely the freighter, emergency rescue command aircraft, medical aircraft and business jet.

    According to Chen, the C909 freighter can meet diverse air cargo needs, including the special cargo market, plateau market and short-haul international cargo routes. The emergency rescue command variant can achieve situation awareness, decision-making and coordination in disaster response. It can also be used for transporting rescue forces and establishing temporary communication networks in disaster-hit areas.

    The medical variant is capable of air medical rescue and patient transfer missions. The business jet, known for its flexibility, efficiency, quietness and comfort, can be customized to meet individual customer requirements.

    “Over the past nine years of operation, the C909 has been continuously improved and optimized to enhance its performance, crew operating experience and cabin comfort,” Chen said.

    “Today, the C909 has found its suitable operational scenarios, such as high-density shuttle routes. It will continue to deliver greater value in the future,” he added.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Chernyshenko congratulated inventors and innovators on their professional holiday

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the All-Russian Society of Inventors and Innovators (VOIR) Dmitry Chernyshenko congratulated its representatives on their professional holiday.

    Dmitry Chernyshenko congratulated inventors and innovators on their professional holiday

    “Our President Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin has approved new national projects for technological leadership. The key to their successful implementation is the development and implementation of breakthrough science-intensive technologies and solutions. It is your innovative ideas and projects that help move domestic science and industry forward,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.

    He added that today the All-Russian Society of Inventors and Innovators already unites more than 100 thousand like-minded people.

    “In turn, the Government pays special attention to the development of the scientific sphere and the creation of a modern educational infrastructure. The national project “Youth and Children” is aimed at supporting and developing talents from the earliest age – from school to university. Friends! I wish all inventors success, inspiration, bright discoveries and inventions for the benefit of our country,” said Dmitry Chernyshenko.

    Inventor and Innovator Day is celebrated in Russia every last Saturday of June. This year, on June 28, the National Center “Russia” is hosting a series of popular science events aimed at popularizing the developments of Russian scientists and inventors within the framework of the priorities of the Strategy for Scientific and Technological Development of the Russian Federation. The organizer of the holiday is the All-Russian Society of Inventors and Innovators.

    As part of the ceremonial part, the III All-Russian VOIR Festival “Science and Inventions for Life” will be launched, which will take place in 15 regions of the country, and will involve more than 400 thousand people, 250 experts from leading scientific and educational organizations of Russia.

    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.

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Chernyshenko and the Governor of Perm Krai Dmitry Makhonin congratulated the graduates and presented the students with diplomas with honors

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    According to the recommendations of the Ministry of Education, June 28 is a single graduation day in Russian schools. Those who decided to connect their lives with the education of the younger generation – graduates of the Perm State Humanitarian and Pedagogical University, as well as other graduates were congratulated by Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko and Perm Krai Governor Dmitry Makhonin. They also presented diplomas with honors to the best students of the university.

    “I congratulate you and all Russian graduates on the completion of this important stage of life! Perm State Humanitarian and Pedagogical University is a forge of teaching staff, significant for the entire country. It is no coincidence that our President Vladimir Putin ordered the launch of the national project “Youth and Children”, where a large part is devoted to projects in the field of education. You are not just teachers and mentors, you are the bearers of the cultural code, spiritual and true values. Family, respect for elders, love – you must spread and instill these important human values in your students. I thank your teachers and lecturers for their work. I know that you are proud of your graduates, who will now become your colleagues. Bon voyage!” – said Dmitry Chernyshenko.

    “The future of Perm Krai and the country depends on you in many ways. I am convinced that it will be successful. You have received one of the best educations, continue to pass on this knowledge and skills to the younger generation. You are expected in various educational institutions of the Kama region, which are developing and will continue to develop thanks to the support of the Government and President Vladimir Putin. We aim to ensure that the profession of a teacher and mentor becomes increasingly authoritative and prestigious. Including thanks to you, Perm Krai will continue to develop and be the mainstay of the state. Happiness and success in everything!” – the Governor of Perm Krai Dmitry Makhonin addressed the graduates.

    “The main heroes today were our honors graduates. I am sure that a great professional future awaits them. Let this ceremony and the participation of such distinguished guests be a successful start for them,” said the university rector Konstantin Egorov.

    He said that next year the university plans to join the Priority 2030 program.

    In conclusion, the Deputy Prime Minister and the Governor left memorable entries in the book of honored guests.

    During their visit, they also visited the Russian Classical School “Svetonika” and the Perm Aviation Technical School named after Shvetsov.

    The Russian Classical School “Svetonika” held a presentation of the personnel training project “Engineering Lift”. The founder of the school is the Perm Scientific and Production Instrument-Making Company. The institution educates children up to 11 years old. As part of additional education, engineering and technical classes are held (robotics, school of young engineers).

    Dmitry Chernyshenko and Dmitry Makhonin also assessed the infrastructure of the new building of the Shvetsov Perm Aviation Technical School, where over 2 thousand students are studying. An educational and production cluster in the mechanical engineering industry has been created on the basis of the technical school within the framework of the federal project “Professionalism” of the national project “Youth and Children”. The institution trains highly qualified specialists for the engine-building industry. The key employers are JSC “UEC – Perm Motors”, JSC “UEC – Aviadvigatel”, JSC “UEC – STAR”.

    The director of the technical school spoke about the implementation of the “Professionality” program, under which 900 students are trained in seven main areas of training. Among them are “Mechanical Engineering Technology”, “Additive Technologies”, “Aviation Instruments and Complexes”.

    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.

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Chernyshenko congratulated residents of youth capitals and all of Russia on Youth Day

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    On June 28, festive events dedicated to Youth Day are held throughout the country. Youth movements, public organizations and leading Russian companies present their projects and programs with opportunities for young people.

    The youth of Perm and Omsk were greeted by the First Deputy Chief of Staff of the Presidential Executive Office of Russia Sergei Kiriyenko, Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko, Governor of Perm Krai Dmitry Makhonin, Governor of Omsk Oblast Vitaly Khotsenko, as well as representatives of the Federal Agency for Youth Affairs and the Movement of the First.

    First Deputy Chief of the Presidential Administration Sergei Kiriyenko congratulated the youth of both capitals.

    “This year, Russia has two youth capitals. I congratulate you! You are great! You are capable of doing the impossible. You are the future of Russia. Today, all opportunities are open to you thanks to the decisions of Russian President Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin. Russia is a country of opportunities,” said Sergei Kiriyenko.

    Addressing the youth of the two youth capitals and all of Russia, the Deputy Prime Minister noted: “Happy Youth Day! Now I will say a phrase that every Perm resident knows: in Perm, everything is real! President Vladimir Putin has just opened new youth centers in the regions of the country via video link. Here in Perm, four youth centers have already opened, and by the end of the year there will be three more, where you can realize your talents, your opportunities, become volunteers, create and try. Bon voyage!”

    Dmitry Chernyshenko took part in the opening of new youth centers in the regions of the country via video link, which was held by President Vladimir Putin. Five new youth centers and the first creative village of Russia “Schastlivtsevo” – the space of the art cluster “Tavrida” (a project of Rosmolodezh) in the Kherson region were opened.

    “We proudly bear the title of youth capital this year. I wish for all of us that everything in this city would be real!” – said Governor Dmitry Makhonin.

    Let us recall that Perm, as the youth capital of Russia 2024, became one of the central venues for the Youth Day celebration. The program spanned several days, from June 25 to 29, and included dozens of events.

    Also, as part of a working visit to Perm, the Deputy Prime Minister assessed the “Weapons of Victory” exhibition and met with leaders of Perm youth organizations. The meeting took place at the site of the A. Shpagin plant: during the Great Patriotic War, young Perm residents helped repair armored trains for the front at this place.

    Dmitry Chernyshenko emphasized the importance of their role as leaders, leading tens and hundreds of young people. He noted that there are about 37 million young people in Russia, and it is important that they feel supported.

    In addition, Dmitry Chernyshenko and Dmitry Makhonin greeted the participants of the festive events dedicated to the 30th anniversary of the Ural-Great club.

    They thanked the veterans of the Ural-Great club and the current players of the Parma team.

    “I congratulate the basketball capital of Russia on the 30th anniversary of the legendary club Ural-Great! A huge thank you to everyone who created, supported and developed this club, a true champion in every sense – both in Russia and in Europe. Special words of gratitude to those who created excellent conditions for our youth to play basketball. And on the eve of the 30th anniversary, we witnessed the creation of a magnificent infrastructure. I am sure that Ural-Great will have a bright and victorious future for many years to come! Happy holiday to everyone,” the Deputy Prime Minister emphasized.

    “I am glad that many young guys, looking at you, are involved in sports. Their parents support them. And only thanks to this joint work can we rightfully be considered the basketball capital of the country. I wish you success,” the governor said.

    Let us recall that in 1995, Sergei Kushchenko created the Ural-Great club on the basis of the student team “Polytechnic”. In six years, the team went through the path to great victories: it won the status of two-time champion of Russia in basketball and became the first club, besides CSKA, to conquer this title.

    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.

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Congratulations from Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov on Shipbuilder’s Day.

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Dear colleagues!

    Congratulations on your professional holiday – Shipbuilder’s Day! This is a special occasion to express gratitude to the employees and veterans of one of the most important branches of Russian industry.

    The history of domestic shipbuilding goes back to the era of Peter the Great. Since then, for more than 300 years, Russian shipbuilders have been creating unique vessels, ensuring our country the status of a great maritime power. Your success is the result of hard work, high professionalism and dedication to your work.

    Russia is a leader in shipbuilding and remains the only country with a nuclear icebreaker fleet. Thanks to the skill of industry specialists, our icebreakers ensure navigation in harsh Arctic waters – from the Barents and White Seas to the Chukchi and East Siberian Seas, expanding Russia’s presence in the Arctic.

    Domestic shipyards are building a wide range of vessels – from multi-purpose combat ships for the Navy to modern civilian vessels for various purposes, which confirms the high level of competence of our specialists.

    I sincerely wish you good health, prosperity and new professional achievements!

    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.

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI China: Norris fends off Piastri for Austrian GP victory

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

    McLaren’s Lando Norris shrugged off the heartache of retirement last time out in Canada to beat teammate Oscar Piastri to victory in Sunday’s F1 Austrian Grand Prix, as Red Bull’s Max Verstappen failed to finish after being hit by Kimi Antonelli on lap 1.

    Starting from pole position in searing heat at the Red Bull Ring, Norris was made to work hard for the win. Piastri started third but immediately overtook Charles Leclerc at the first corner, and kept relentless pressure on the Briton throughout the race.

    The first potential flashpoint came on lap 11, when Piastri capitalized on a DRS opportunity to briefly snatch the lead into Turn 3. But Norris struck back almost immediately, reclaiming the position later in the lap.

    From there, Norris maintained a slender but crucial advantage, managing the gap while negotiating backmarkers and battling minor front wing damage in the closing stages. Despite Piastri’s pace and several moments where the Australian appeared poised to launch another attack, McLaren made clear over team radio that both drivers were free to race, but with the understanding that both cars needed to come home cleanly.

    Norris ultimately crossed the line 2.7 seconds ahead of Piastri to take his third victory of the season and reduce his points deficit to the Australian to just 15.

    The win marked an emphatic turnaround for Norris after his Canadian Grand Prix ended with him crashing into the back of Piastri during a late-race battle for fourth position. That incident, which Norris admitted was his fault, not only cost him a points finish but also handed Piastri momentum in their championship fight.

    Sunday’s victory allowed Norris to trim Piastri’s lead in the standings to 15 points, breathing new life into the title race ahead of Norris’s home Grand Prix at Silverstone next weekend.

    The Austrian race began in chaotic fashion. Carlos Sainz’s Williams stalled on the formation lap, forcing an aborted start and reducing the race distance from 71 to 70 laps.

    When the lights finally went out, Mercedes’ Antonelli misjudged his braking point and collided with Verstappen at Turn 3, taking both cars out of the race. The collision ended Verstappen’s 31-race points streak, disappointing the legions of fans who had thronged to support him at the Red Bull-owned circuit.

    Behind the dominant McLarens, Ferrari’s Leclerc emerged as best of the rest, finishing a distant third for his fourth podium finish of the season. Teammate Lewis Hamilton followed in a lonely fourth place, with Mercedes’ George Russell rounding out the top five.

    Further down the order, Racing Bulls’ Liam Lawson and Aston Martin’s Fernando Alonso both maximized one-stop strategies to score valuable points in sixth and seventh. Gabriel Bortoleto finished a strong weekend to score his first ever F1 points in eighth, ahead of Sauber teammate Nico Hulkenberg, while Esteban Ocon delivered the final point for Haas in tenth.

    In the updated Drivers’ championship standings, Piastri leads with 216 points, with Norris closing in on 201 and Verstappen remaining on 155.

    In the Constructors’ standings, McLaren’s total now stands at 417 points, with Ferrari moving up to second on 210, one point ahead of Mercedes.

    F1 now heads to Silverstone for next weekend’s British Grand Prix – a race that neither Norris nor Piastri has previously won.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-Evening Report: Cities are heating up the planet – how they can do more to fight climate change

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Anna Hurlimann, Associate Professor in Urban Planning, The University of Melbourne

    Quality Stock Arts/Shutterstock

    Cities have a central role to play tackling climate change. They contribute 67–72% of the greenhouse gas emissions which are heating up the planet.

    At the same time, cities are increasingly at risk from global warming. Flood, fire and drought are affecting everything from the cost of insuring homes and businesses, through to impacts on health and safety.

    This is critical given 90% of Australians live in urban areas. Globally, cities are home to more than four billion people.

    Our new study identifies 16 priority actions to address climate change in the construction and management of cities.

    Building smarter

    Climate change must be a key consideration when designing, building and managing our cities. The emissions generated need to be minimised and eventually eliminated.

    We must build in locations, and in ways, that reduce climate risks. But policies governing how our cities are designed and constructed don’t achieve this.

    A recent study of three local government areas identified only limited action on adaptation and mitigation. Other research has found few urban development policies include carbon reduction goals that meet international targets.

    The National Housing Accord will see more than one million houses built by 2029. These new homes must address the climate challenge.

    16 areas for priority action

    The priority areas in our new study were informed by interviews with more than 150 stakeholders working in urban planning, architecture, landscape architecture, urban design, sustainability, construction and property.

    Priority areas for minimising damaging emissions generated by cities.
    CC BY

    The actions they identified cover the entire life cycle of the built environment.

    One of the first barriers to overcome is the perceived lack of agency among industry professionals to initiate or demand climate action. They perceive others, such as property owners or clients, to have more influence.

    Climate change risks should be identified in the early stages of planning new developments, backed up by effective tools to make risk identification and action easier:

    There were areas that were identified as being flood prone or risk prone. But there was no strategy to deal with what happens to those areas – An urban planner

    Once specific projects are being considered it is important to prioritise early stage climate assessments, supported by policies which mandate climate action:

    Everyone has good intentions but without big formal legislation around it, everyone’s just sort of making their way in the dark – A construction industry professional

    In the design stage, steps to improve the climate knowledge and skills of the workforce beyond disciplinary boundaries is critical. The selection of low-impact products and materials will also help ensure design is more climate responsive.

    Climate action must be embedded in all stages of design and construction of Australian cities.
    GagliardiPhotography/Shutterstock

    The highest number of hurdles to climate action were found to occur during the costing and approvals stage. Participants spoke of a highly competitive building industry. If climate change initiatives introduced at an earlier stage aren’t required by law, they are likely to be cut.

    unless there’s something in it for them in terms of return on investment, it’s going to be hard to get them to do it, unless we make them – An urban planner

    During the construction phase, product and material substitutions that have detrimental environmental impact should be eliminated. Innovation should be encouraged:

    If you want to push the envelope a little bit in terms of using recycled materials […] that’s a bit of a barrier. To push innovation is difficult – A landscape architect

    Post-construction

    Once construction is complete and buildings and public spaces are being used, it is important to invest in a thorough evaluation process. Building users should be involved to ensure buildings are maintained for optimal climate outcomes:

    [We] tried to achieve the six star rating […] the client has to maintain it [the building] for a year, and that’s when things start to fall off – An architect

    When it comes to area upgrades or building renewals, advocating for reuse and materials circularity is important. But the custom of demolishing and building anew, is hard to shift:

    The reuse of the existing building obviously generates significantly less waste and involves less material. So, design decisions and strategic decisions around using existing buildings is really important – An urban designer

    Working together

    This is a time of significant change in our urban areas.

    We need to make sure climate action is embedded in every stage of decision making. This may mean more efficient use, and reuse, of the existing built stock. This will require an overhaul of policies regarding building retrofits, and a change in mindsets.

    The priority actions to address climate change in cities can be implemented across a range of levels for:

    • individual professionals – pursue development of their climate change skills, including opportunities provided by professional associations

    • professional practices – review internal processes to ensure climate action is mainstreamed across projects, and in company decision making

    • universities teaching built environment professional degrees – embed climate change knowledge, skills, and competencies across the curriculum

    • governments at all levels – review policy settings to mandate mitigation and adaption.

    By addressing these actions, we can collectively work towards achieving our emission reduction targets and making sure our cities minimise climate change risks.

    Anna Hurlimann received funding for the research reported in this article from the Australian Research Council – Discovery Grant DP200101378, with co-chief investigators Georgia Warren-Myers, Alan March, Sareh Moosavi and Judy Bush. She is a member of the Planning Institute of Australia.

    Sareh Moosavi received funding for the research reported in this article from the Australian Research Council – Discovery Grant DP200101378, with co-chief investigators Anna Hurlimann, Georgia Warren-Myers, Alan March, and Judy Bush.

    ref. Cities are heating up the planet – how they can do more to fight climate change – https://theconversation.com/cities-are-heating-up-the-planet-how-they-can-do-more-to-fight-climate-change-259391

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Showcases AI Home Appliance Innovations at DA Global Tech Seminars Across Five Regions

    Source: Samsung

    From March to June, Samsung Electronics hosted Digital Appliances (DA) Global Tech Seminars across five regions — the United States, Europe, Latin America, Southeast Asia and Southwest Asia — to showcase its latest innovations to audiences around the world. The seminars welcomed about 240 media representatives and tech influencers from 40 countries to experience Samsung’s latest AI home appliances firsthand and observe how the company is tailoring features to meet the unique needs of each region.1 Attendees also participated in Q&A sessions with product developers, who shared in-depth insights and explanations.
     
    Samsung Newsroom recaps each regional seminar with on-site highlights and photos.
     
     
    United States: Large-Capacity Washer-Dryers Win Praise for Practicality and Efficiency
    ▲ 2025 DA Global Tech Seminar held in the U.S.
     
    The U.S. Tech Seminar took place on March 18 at Samsung Home, a Bespoke AI experience space in SoHo, New York City — a neighborhood synonymous with art and creative living.
     
    American consumers tend to prioritize practicality and efficiency. Taking this into account, Samsung set up a dedicated experience zone for the large-capacity Bespoke AI Laundry Vented Combo, featuring a product cutaway mock-up that allowed visitors to intuitively understand the product’s core technologies and features. In addition, a live cooking demonstration showcased the AI capabilities of the Bespoke AI Oven, while the Bespoke AI Hybrid Refrigerator — which boosts energy efficiency using a semiconductor-based Peltier module — also mesmerized guests.
     
     
    Europe: Bespoke AI Jet Ultra Takes Center Stage With Industry-Leading Suction Power
    ▲ 2025 DA Global Tech Seminar held in Germany
     
    On the same day, the European Tech Seminar kicked off in Frankfurt, Germany, at World of Samsung — a global showcase designed to provide an in-depth look at Samsung’s products.
     
    A key highlight was the Bespoke AI Jet Ultra, which features the world’s most powerful suction for a cordless stick vacuum cleaner at 400W. Samsung developers gave presentations, offering insight into the vacuum cleaner’s high-performance engineering. The Bespoke AI Jet Ultra recently earned 4.5 out of 5 stars from U.K.-based review outlet Trusted Reviews and ranked first among 43 cordless vacuums tested by German IT outlet Chip.
     
     
    Latin America: SmartThings-Connected Home Appliances Growing at Twice the Global Rate
    ▲ 2025 DA Global Tech Seminar held in Mexico
     
    The Latin America Tech Seminar took place on June 3 in the vibrant metropolis of Mexico City, Mexico, drawing media and influencers from 13 countries to experience Samsung’s new lineup firsthand. Consumers in the region have shown high interest in connected living, with SmartThings-connected appliance adoption growing at more than twice the global average.2
     
    Reflecting this demand, demonstrations highlighted various features including Map View, Bixby, Routines — all easily accessible via SmartThings or the AI Home screen. Attendees also visited Sam’s House, a premium residential showroom where they engaged in hands-on interactions with Samsung’s connected products.
     
     
    Southeast Asia: AI Appliances Optimized for Hot, Humid Climates
    ▲ 2025 DA Global Tech Seminar held in Thailand
     
    On June 20, Samsung held the Southeast Asia Tech Seminar at a showroom in Bangkok, Thailand, where attendees explored the company’s latest products in settings simulating both commercial and residential spaces.
     
    Through demonstrations, attendees experienced how the Voice ID feature on the Bespoke AI Family Hub refrigerator can recognize individual voices to deliver personalized responses. They also saw how Samsung is localizing AI home appliances to better suit Southeast Asia’s hot and humid climate — for example, the 1-Way Cassette system air conditioner and the Bespoke AI Top Load Washer. “The use of AI to enhance user experience and facilitate both usage and energy savings is particularly valuable and useful,” said Kemachad Gunpai of Future Trends Thailand who attended the seminar.
     
     
    Southwest Asia: AI-Powered, Efficient Cooling Solutions in the Spotlight
    ▲ 2025 DA Global Tech Seminar held in India
     
    Held on June 25 in Gurugram, India, the Southwest Asia Tech Seminar focused on SmartThings-connected solutions and energy-efficient features tailored to local preferences.
     
    Among the demonstrations were AI appliances responding to sleep patterns detected by motion sensors, alongside cooling solutions tailored for Indian consumers. Attendees also received detailed explanations on how to track energy usage via SmartThings, a particularly relevant feature amid rising electricity costs. Samsung employees also explained how each product operates in AI Energy Mode to maximize efficiency and minimize energy consumption.
     
    “Samsung will continue to develop and expand the Global Tech Seminars in ways that reflect the unique local characteristics of each region,” said Soohyuk Ro, Vice President and Head of Tech Insight Group at Digital Appliances (DA) Business, Samsung Electronics, as the seminars came to an end. “In doing so, we will provide even deeper insights into how Samsung’s AI Home and innovative AI appliances can bring meaningful benefits to daily life for everyone.”
     
     
    1 Product names and features mentioned in this article may vary by region.
    2 Based on internal data from Samsung, aggregated via BDC (BI & Analytics), reflecting the cumulative annual ratio of Wi-Fi-connected devices.

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Island resilience fund opens

    Source: Scottish Government

    £4.4 million targeted support for businesses.

    A funding package developed to support island businesses affected by ferry disruption is now ready to accept applications.

    Businesses from eligible sectors on South Uist, Colonsay, North Uist, Eriskay, Benbecula, Berneray, Grimsay and Arran can apply.

    Eligible sectors include those that rely on tourism and those that are engaged in the manufacture or movement of perishable goods, such as seafood.

    £4.4 million has been allocated to the Islands Business Resilience Fund (IBRF) which was established to help address issues, such as travel disruption, that can have a disproportionate impact on people and businesses living, and operating on Scotland’s islands.

    Highlands and Islands Enterprise will manage the IBRF on behalf of the Scottish Government. Applications will be accepted from 2 July until 12 noon 1 September 2025 with decisions and payments expected by 31 October 2025.

    Funding awards will be based on demand and the scale size of organisations that apply for support but awards are expected to range between £3,000 and £35,000

    Islands Secretary Mairi Gougeon said:

    “We know that Scotland’s island communities face distinct challenges, not least in terms of their economic and social resilience. People and businesses require ferry services running reliably and frequently to support their livelihoods.

    “We worked with Highlands and Islands Enterprise to refine the eligibility criteria and identify how this money can make a real difference to the businesses who need it most.

    “Reliable and regular ferry services are key to this connectivity for people and businesses and we know that the current situation of delays and ongoing maintenance to some vessels has created real difficulties for some. We are determined to do everything we can to support islands, their local businesses and employers through these challenging times.”

    Rachel Hunter, HIE’s director of enterprise and community support, said:

    “Island businesses and social enterprises make an important contribution to local economies and provide vital rural employment that helps sustain many communities. Those operating in tourism and production or movement of perishable foods are particularly vulnerable to disruption such as we’ve seen in recent years.

    “This fund is about strengthening the resilience of those organisations operating in the sectors and islands most affected. Our focus will be assessing applications promptly so that funding can be awarded as soon as possible after the closing date.”

    Background

    The application form and guidance will be available on the Highlands and Islands Enterprise website from 12 noon on 2 July.

    Highlands and Islands Enterprise carried out detailed analysis of information and statistics provided by Transport Scotland and CalMac relating to ferry disruption.

    The islands of South Uist, Colonsay, North Uist, Eriskay, Benbecula, Berneray, Grimsay and Arran were chosen as eligible for the Islands Business Resilience Fund as they each had more than 15% ferry disruption over the last three seasons. The average cancellations of ferry services across the Calmac network is during that time has been around 7%. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Giant baby Musk float in march for tax justice at UN summit in Sevilla: ‘Make rich polluters pay’

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    Sevilla, Spain – Greenpeace activists joined a civil society march today for Global Economic Justice, with a giant float of a baby Elon Musk holding a chainsaw threatening planet Earth. As the 4th International Conference on Financing for Development (FfD4) starts tomorrow in Sevilla, campaigners are calling on world leaders to advance commitments for new and fair global tax and debt rules, and to hold fossil fuel polluters accountable for climate and nature damages.[1] [2]

    The conference opens against a backdrop of intensifying conflicts, geopolitical tensions, rising inequality, and accelerating climate and environmental breakdown. The outcome document, the Compromiso de Sevilla, released ahead of the conference, does not go far enough. It delivers on some promises on international tax cooperation and encouraging taxes on environmental contamination and pollution. However, bold language on sovereign debt architecture reform was weakened by Global North governments during the negotiations, and the agreement falls short on responding to the urgency of the climate, nature and social crises.[3]

    Fred Njehu, Greenpeace Africa’s Global Political Lead for the Fair Share campaign,[4] said: “Sevilla is a rare opportunity for global economic justice and for urgent conversations on how billionaires and corporate polluters should pay their fair share of taxes to fund climate action, nature protection and social programmes. World leaders need to listen to what the public wants and deliver a tax system that works for all.”

    Eva Saldaña, Executive Director of Greenpeace Spain and Portugal, said: “Multilateral cooperation is key to addressing global threats and resource gaps for global climate and economic justice. It must not become an excuse for more powerful governments, in the Global North or elsewhere, to water down ambition. We must put people over greed and listen to the voices rising from the streets – in Seville and all over the world. All governments must actively support the UN Tax Convention process and pursue real solutions to the debt crisis, so that we can finally begin to transfer resources away from polluters and the super-rich for the wellbeing of all people and especially for those who are suffering the most from the climate emergency.”

    Greenpeace demands reforms in international tax cooperation and public financing for sustainable development. Specifically: 

    • Endorsement of the UN Tax Convention process for just and equitable global tax rules, that make the super-rich pay their fair share and make corporate polluters, such as the fossil fuel industry, pay for their climate damages.
    • Explicit commitments from governments – via the Global Solidarity Levies Task Force, and beyond – to remove fossil fuel production subsidies and introduce progressive taxes and fines on fossil fuel corporations, and other high emitting sectors. This builds on the FfD4 outcomes document’s endorsement of “taxes on environmental contamination and pollution.” The revenues should be used to pay for domestic climate action and international climate finance support  – in particular action to support communities to respond and recover from climate disasters.

    Rebecca Newsom, Global Political Lead for Greenpeace International’s Stop Drilling, Start Paying campaign, said: “While fossil fuel-driven floods, storms, wildfires and droughts increasingly hit communities around the world, people are crying out for their governments to tax oil, gas and coal corporations to pay for climate-related loss and damage. So what are political leaders waiting for? They must seize the opportunity of Sevilla to make polluters pay – or face growing public anger for continuing to let dirty industries off the hook.”

    Hanen Keskes, Campaigns Lead at Greenpeace Middle East North Africa, said: “This is not the time to lack ambition as civil society is calling for urgent debt relief and structural reform. The burden of debt is undermining the most vulnerable countries’ ability to respond to climate, nature and social crises. Governments must show that they are ready to build a fairer and more sustainable future – one rooted in justice, not extraction.”

    ENDS

    Members of the Greenpeace delegation in Seville are available for interviews in Spanish, English, German, and Swahili.

    Photos and Videos can be downloaded via Greenpeace Media Library and will be updated throughout the conference. 

    Notes:

    [1] Greenpeace Spain’s float of Elon Musk measures 2 metres wide by 3.5 –  4 metres high.

    [2] The Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development (FFD4) is a once-in-a-decade opportunity to reform financing at all levels, including to support reform of the international financial architecture. FFD4 Conference will be held in FIBES Sevilla Exhibition and Conference Centre (30 June – 3 July 2025)

    [3] The Compromiso de Sevilla: Outcome | FFD4

    Contacts in Seville:

    Tal Harris, Global Media Lead – Stop Drilling Start Paying campaign, Greenpeace International. +41-782530550, [email protected]  

    Begoña Rodríguez, Media Lead – Climate Responsibility Team, Greenpeace Spain & Portugal. +34 605248097, [email protected]

    Additional contacts: 

    Christine Gebeneter, EU Communication lead, Greenpeace CEE based in Austria, +43 664 8403807, [email protected] 

    Lee Kuen, Global Comms Lead – Fair Share campaign, Greenpeace International. +601112527489, [email protected]

    Greenpeace International Press Desk, +31 (0)20 718 2470 (available 24 hours), [email protected]

    MIL OSI NGO

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Further details on welfare reforms published ahead of Second Reading

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Further details on welfare reforms published ahead of Second Reading

    New details on the Government’s welfare reforms will be published today (Monday 30 June 2025) ahead of Second Reading of the Universal Credit and Personal Independence Payment Bill on Tuesday.

    • Terms of reference for the first comprehensive review of the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) assessment in a decade to be published today.
    • Comes alongside draft regulations for the new Right to Try Guarantee – enshrining protections in law for disabled people and people with health conditions who want to try work.
    • Reforms to deliver greater certainty, independence, and dignity for disabled people, while ensuring the system is fair, sustainable, and fit for the future as part of the Plan for Change.

    New details on the government’s welfare reforms will be published today (Monday 30 June 2025) ahead of Second Reading of the Universal Credit (UC) and PIP Bill on Tuesday.

    The terms of reference for the first ever comprehensive review of the PIP assessment in over a decade will be published today. The review – led by Minister for Social Security and Disability Sir Stephen Timms – will ensure the system is fair, supportive and reflects the realities of modern life.

    It will be co-produced with disabled people, the organisations that represent them, and MPs with the core objective of delivering better experiences and better outcomes for disabled people and people with health conditions.

    The review aims to respond to the changing picture of population health over the last decade including the rising prevalence of long-term health conditions and disability in the working-age population.

    Monthly PIP awards have more than doubled since the pandemic, rising from 13,000 to 34,000 – a rate of around 1,000 new claims per day, or the population of Leicester every year. Much of this increase is driven by mental health conditions with awards for anxiety and depression having tripled from 2,500 per month in 2019 to 8,200 in 2023.

    To better help those with mental ill health, the government has recruited more than 6,700 extra mental health workers since July while rolling out more access to occupational health services and developing digital resources, so employers better support their staff’s mental wellbeing.

    Many people have also reported poor experiences with the assessment process. The current system often fails to reflect the real-world impact of disability on daily life and is no longer fit for purpose – making reform urgent and essential.

    Alongside the review, draft regulations for the new Right to Try Guarantee will be laid in Parliament. This will, for the first time, enshrine in law the right for people receiving health and disability benefits to try work without fear of reassessment. This includes disabled people and people with health conditions – such as those recovering from illness – who want to return to work now their health has improved.

    This responds directly to concerns raised by disabled people and people with health conditions – 37% of whom say they want to work but are held back by fear of losing their benefits according to a DWP survey.

    Fixing the broken welfare system this government inherited is central to breaking down barriers to opportunity and driving up living standards – delivering on the government’s Plan for Change. The government’s reforms will ensure disabled people have the support they need to live independently, with dignity, and will unlock opportunities to get into work without facing the prospect of losing the help they need.

    Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall said:

    We must build a welfare system that provides security for those who cannot work and the right support for those who can. Too often, disabled people feel trapped – worried that if they try to work, they could lose the support they depend on.

    That is why we are taking action to remove those barriers, support disabled people to live with dignity and independence, and open routes into employment for those who want to pursue it.

    This is about delivering a fairer, more compassionate system as part of our Plan for Change which supports people to thrive, whatever their circumstances.

    The Government will also set out details today of the changes they intend to make to the Bill as part of the government’s welfare reforms. The Government has listened to MPs who support the principle of reform but are worried about the pace of change for those already supported by the social security system.

    That’s why ministers have confirmed that as part of the Bill:

    • All existing PIP recipients will remain on the current system and the proposed changes to eligibility as part of the bill will only apply to new claims from November 2026.
    • 200,000 individuals in the Severe Conditions Criteria group – individuals with the most severe, lifelong conditions who are unlikely to recover – will not be called for a UC reassessment.
    • All existing recipients of the UC health element and new customers with 12 months or less to live or who meet the Severe Conditions Criteria will see their standard allowance combined with their Limited Capability for Work Related Activity (LCWRA) rise at least in line with inflation every year from 2026/27 to 2029/30.

    Nearly 4 million households will receive an income boost with the main rate of UC set to increase above inflation every year for the next four years – estimated to be worth £725 by 2029/30 for a single household aged 25 or over. This is around £250 higher than an inflation only increases.

    The Bill will also rebalance UC rates by reducing the health element for new UC claims to the equivalent of £50 per week from April 2026, fixing a system which incentivises people to define themselves as incapable of work by paying health element recipients more than double the standard amount.

    These reforms will be also underpinned by a significant investment in employment support. Funding will be brought forward to accelerate tailored employment, health and skills support to help disabled people and those with health conditions get into work as part of our Pathways to Work guarantee.

    £300 million will be brought forward over the next three years, increasing total employment support by £2.2 billion over four years – upholding our commitment to spend £1 billion per year by the end of the decade.

    This investment will accelerate the pace of new planned investment in employment support programmes, building on and learning from successes such as the Connect to Work programme, which already provides disabled people and people with health conditions with one-to-one support at the point when they feel ready to work.

    And for people whose health challenges make it difficult to find or stay in work, our initiative in partnership with the NHS, WorkWell, will offer personalised support to help individuals manage their health while preparing for or returning to employment. This will build on progress already made to get 384,000 people into work since this government entered office and will come alongside fundamental reforms to patient support as part of the landmark 10 Year Health Plan.

    Health professionals will be on hand to connect people with services like physiotherapy, mental health support, and more. They will also be supported by a dedicated employment adviser who understands their specific health needs and guide them every step of the way.

    For too long, meaningful reform to our welfare system has been ducked and delayed – stunting productivity, slowing down growth and ultimately holding British people and our country back. The government is taking decisive action and the difficult decisions needed to restore trust and faith in the system, providing opportunities for those who can work, and security for those who cannot.

    Further information

    • The UC and PIP Bill is scheduled for Second Reading in the House of Commons Parliament on Tuesday 1 July 2025.
    • The UC and PIP Bill legislates for:
    • A new additional eligibility requirement for the daily living component of PIP so that from November 2026 new claimants must score a minimum of 4 points must be scored on at least one daily living activity to be eligible for the daily living component.
    • Rebalancing of UC health and standard elementsincluding reducing the health top-up for new claims to £50 per week from April 2026.
    • Ensure that all existing recipients of the UC health element – and any new claimant meeting the Severe Conditions Criteria and/or that has their claims considered under the Special Rules for End of Life (SREL) – will receive the higher UC health payment after April 2026.
    • Increasing the UC standard allowance above inflation for the next four years – worth an estimated £725 by 2029/30 for a single adult aged 25 or over.
    • Exemptions from reassessment for those with the most severe, lifelong conditions.
    • The Government has also confirmed that it will amend the Bill at Commons Committee stage to:
    • Provide protection for existing PIP claimants—ensuring they remain on the current system and are unaffected by new eligibility rules.
    • For all existing recipients of the UC health element – and any new claimant meeting the Severe Conditions Criteria and/or that has their claims considered under the Special Rules for End of Life (SREL) – the LCWRA rate for this group will now be uprated each year this Parliament to ensure their combined rate of the Universal Credit standard allowance and LCWRA is protected in real terms.
    • The Bill currently includes a 13-week transitional period for the PIP changes, but this will be superseded by long-term protections for existing claimants.
    • The Terms of reference for the PIP review, draft regulations for the Right to Try Guarantee, the draft amendment to the Bill which will enact the change to PIP, and analysis of poverty impacts will be published later today.
    • The DWP work aspirations survey can be found here: Work aspirations and support needs of health and disability customers: Interim findings – GOV.UK; PDF, 1.2MB
    • Latest data published last week shows almost one-in-four adults in England have common mental health conditions – and that adults with problem debt and those out of work are far more likely to experience mental health conditions.
    • To better help those with mental ill health, the government is boosting access to support, with more than 6,700 extra mental health workers since July, marking a significant milestone towards its goal of 8,500 by the end of this Parliament.
    • It has also started rolling out more access to occupational health services and developing digital resources so employers can better support their staff’s mental wellbeing as part of its drive to get people back to health and back to work.

    Updates to this page

    Published 30 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Upgrading national grid to power AI future to be tackled at AI Energy Council

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Upgrading national grid to power AI future to be tackled at AI Energy Council

    The Technology and Energy Secretaries will chair the second meeting of the AI Energy Council today.

    AI Energy Council helping to power new AI breakthroughs.

    • Second meeting to focus on bringing the energy grid up to speed to power the next wave of AI breakthroughs.
    • Major tech and energy companies to attend, following £2 billion to accelerate the use of AI in boosting productivity and growth across the UK.
    • Comes in addition to reforming the connections process so data centres can quickly get up and running – increasing investment and speeding up breakthroughs using AI.

    The energy demands to drive the processing power needed for new waves of AI breakthroughs, and the future energy needs of the wider AI sector will be on the agenda as the AI Energy Council gathers today (30 June).

    With energy providers, tech companies, energy regulator Ofgem and the National Energy System Operator (NESO) convening, this second meeting will discuss how to work together to forecast how much energy will be needed to deliver a twenty-fold increase in compute capacity over the next 5 years.

    Compute represents the key building block of AI development. It captures the vital resources which make AI models work, such as the processing power which allows them to be trained on data and process information. By increasing the UK’s capacity, it will give scientists and AI companies from across the UK access to the systems they need for their cutting-edge research – making the next big breakthrough from personalised medical treatments, more sustainable air travel, or developing new tools in the fight against climate change.

    The meeting is also expected to cover which sectors are likely to quickly adopt AI and how this could drive significant shifts in energy demand. Discussions will focus on what assumptions need to be made to accurately forecast that demand, ensuring the energy system is prepared for AI

    Chaired by the Technology and Energy Secretaries, the meeting comes hot on the heels of the UK government announcing £2 billion to deliver the AI Opportunities Action Plan.

    The Action Plan serves as a blueprint to turbocharge the use of AI, whether it’s in hospitals to help diagnose patients more quickly, in schools to help with lesson planning so teachers have more time in front of the whiteboard, or delivering new AI Growth Zones which will unlock scores of new investment and jobs to revitalize local communities and deliver the economic growth driving the government’s Plan for Change.

    Secretary of State for Science, Innovation, and Technology, Peter Kyle said:

    Giving our researchers and innovators access to the processing power they need will not only maintain our standing as the world’s third-biggest AI power, but put British expertise at the heart of the AI breakthroughs which will improve our lives, modernise our public services, and spark the economic growth which is the cornerstone of our Plan for Change.

    We are clear-eyed though on the need to make sure we can power this golden era for British AI through responsible, sustainable energy sources. Today’s talks will help us drive forward that mission, delivering AI infrastructure which will benefit communities up and down the country for generations to come without ever compromising on our clean energy superpower ambitions.

    Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, Ed Miliband said:

    We are making the UK a clean energy superpower, building the homegrown energy this country needs to get bills down for good and create new jobs as part of our Plan for Change.

    Bringing together the biggest players in AI and energy will help us discuss the role AI can play an important role in building a new era of clean electricity for our country, and meeting the power demands of new technology as we build a clean power system for families and businesses.

    With energy providers, tech companies, energy regulator Ofgem and the National Energy System Operator (NESO) convening today, they’ll discuss how to work together to forecast how much energy will be needed to deliver this twenty-fold increase in compute capacity over the next 5 years. The meeting is also expected to cover which sectors are likely to quickly adopt AI and how this could drive significant shifts in energy demand. 

    The meeting will consider the future energy needs of the AI sector more widely, as the government also continues to move forward with its plans to roll out AI Growth Zones across the country. These hotbeds of AI development will unlock billions in investment and deliver scores of new jobs across the country, with communities throughout the UK having already expressed an interest in being home to future growth zone sites. 

    Since establishing the AI Energy Council in January, government has been deepening its work both Ofgem and the National Energy System Operator (NESO) to deliver fundamental reforms to the UK’s connections process. Once final signoffs from Ofgem are in place, this could mean more than 400GW of additional capacity is freed up from the grid connection queue – turbocharging the AI projects which are vital to economic growth. 

    Further Information

    The Technology and Energy Secretary are joined at today’s meeting by representatives of:

    • Google
    • Microsoft
    • Amazon Web Services
    • Equinix
    • Brookfield
    • ARM
    • Advanced Research and Invention Agency (ARIA)
    • National Energy System Operator (NESO)
    • Ofgem
    • National Grid
    • Energy Networks Association
    • Scottish Power
    • Nuclear Industry Association
    • EDF Energy
    • International Energy Agency

    DSIT media enquiries

    Email press@dsit.gov.uk

    Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 6pm 020 7215 3000

    Updates to this page

    Published 30 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Reforms to Building Safety Regulator to accelerate housebuilding

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Reforms to Building Safety Regulator to accelerate housebuilding

    Reforms to the Building Safety Regulator bring new leadership, investment and process to accelerate housebuilding

    • New Fast Track Process to enhance the review of newbuild applications, unblock delays and boost sector confidence   

    • Measures will help delivery of 1.5 million safe, high-quality homes and speed up remediation  

    • Reforms pave the way for the creation of a single construction regulator, as recommended by the Grenfell Tower Inquiry

    Delays to building new high-rise homes will be unblocked through a new package of reforms to the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) announced today. These reforms, which include a new Fast Track Process, changes to leadership and fresh investment, aim to support the delivery of 1.5 million safe, high-quality homes and take early steps toward establishing a single construction regulator – a key recommendation from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry. 

    Andy Roe KFSM has been appointed as non-executive chair of a new board of the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) to take on the functions of the BSR as part of initial steps towards creating a single construction regulator.   

    Andy brings a wealth of experience in safety regulation and leadership from his previous role as Commissioner of London Fire Brigade and he will be supported by a new Chief Executive Officer for the BSR, Charlie Pugsley.   

    Alex Norris, Minister for Building Safety, said:  

    “The establishment of the Building Safety Regulator has been fundamental to centralising safety in the construction process and it’s time to take the next steps to build on that precedent and create a system that works for the sector whilst keeping residents and their safety at the heart of the process.   

    “That’s why we’re announcing a package of reforms to the BSR today to enhance operations, reduce delays, and unlock the homes this country desperately needs – delivering on our Plan for Change.”  

    This new organisational structure reflects the government’s commitment to prioritising building safety in its drive to build 1.5m new homes, and builds on the strong foundation created by the HSE in establishing the BSR, which has played a pivotal role in placing raising safety standards across the sector.   

    To support industry in achieving the government’s ambitious housebuilding targets, the BSR is also introducing a new Fast Track Process which will bring building inspector and engineer capacity directly into the BSR to enhance the processing and review of existing newbuild cases and remediation decisions. This will respond to concerns in the sector around delays whilst crucially keeping building and residents’ safety at the core of the process.   

    Alongside these improvements, long-term investment in the capacity of the BSR is being bolstered with the addition of over 100 new members of staff to support with enhancing operations, reducing delays and supporting progress towards building 1.5m safe, high-quality homes as part of our Plan for Change.       

    Andy Roe, non-exec Chair of the BSR, said:   

    “The creation of the new Building Safety Regulator was a watershed moment for housing and construction in this country.    

    “However, it is also clear that the BSR processes’ need to continue to evolve and improve, to ensure that it plays its part in enabling the homes this country desperately needs to be built.   

    “I look forward to working with colleagues both in industry and the BSR to tackle the current issues and delays head on and help get those homes built safely.”   

    HSE Chair, Sarah Newton said:  

     “Setting up an entirely new regulator has been complex and huge progress has been made in a short space of time.   

    “Protecting residents and making sure there is never another tragedy like Grenfell has been our priority throughout this process. We wish the new BSR team well in this most important mission.  

    “We are very proud of the work we have done to establish the BSR. It was always an option that once the new regulator was established that it would move out of HSE to enable the Government to implement the Grenfell Public Inquiry recommendations and we will work hard to enable the smooth transition to the next stage.”   

    Notes to editors: 

    • Government and the BSR are also working constructively with the sector to help industry meet the BSR’s requirements and demonstrate compliance with the law to reduce the number of rejected and unsuccessful applications.   

    • The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is Britain’s national regulator for workplace health and safety. We are dedicated to protecting people and places, and helping everyone lead safer and healthier lives.  

    • The Building Safety Regulator (BSR) is an independent body established by the Building Safety Act, 2022 and is part of HSE. The government asked HSE to establish BSR in the wake of the Grenfell Tower disaster and following recommendations in the ‘Building a Safer Future’ report by Dame Judith Hackitt.  

    • A new arm’s length body to MHCLG is being established with the intention for this to take on the functions of the BSR from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) in due course. Andy Roe has been appointed to a shadow board pending its establishment as Executive Agency.  

    • BSR regulates the safe design, construction and occupation of higher-risk buildings in England and provides oversight for the safety and standards of all buildings, promoting competence across industry.

    Updates to this page

    Published 30 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Pakistan’s monsoon rains kill 45 in four days

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    ISLAMABAD, June 29 (Xinhua) — Seven more people have died in rain-related accidents in Pakistan in the past two days, taking the death toll to 45 since the start of the monsoon season on June 26, Pakistan’s National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) said on Sunday.

    In a statement, the ministry said the death toll had risen to 68 after six more residents were injured in heavy rains that hit almost all provinces of Pakistan.

    Simultaneously, the NDMA has issued a warning of heavy rainfall and thunderstorms expected to affect large parts of the country in the next 12-24 hours. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Video: International Business Forum – 4th International Conference on Financing for Development #FFD4

    Source: United Nations (video statements)

    The International Business Forum (IBF) will open with a high-level gathering of Heads of State, ministers, CEOs, and global business leaders to explore solutions that unlock private finance and investments for sustainable development.  

    The opening of the IBF will set the tone for the importance of driving solutions that unlock private finance and investments for sustainable development. The session will feature welcome addresses by Pedro Sánchez, Prime Minister of Spain, and António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, followed by remarks from Heads of State, Ministers, CEOs and global business leaders. Speakers will include John Denton, Secretary General of the International Chamber of Commerce; Shinta Kamdani, CEO of Sintesa Group and Co-Chair of the Global Investors for Sustainable Development (GISD) Alliance; and José Viñals, GISD Co-Chair and Senior Advisor to the Board of Standard Chartered. BBC presenter Rajini Vaidyanathan will serve as the moderator. 

    More Info: https://financing.desa.un.org/FFD4/businessforum
    All the FFD4 events: https://webtv.un.org/

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GoV4sA6j7OE

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Readout of the Secretary-General’s meeting with H.M. Don Felipe VI, King of Spain [scroll down for Spanish]

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    The Secretary-General met with H.M. King Felipe VI of Spain. They discussed ongoing efforts to advance the international financing for development agenda.

    The Secretary-General expressed his deep gratitude for Spain’s unwavering commitment to multilateralism and the UN system, as well as its leadership role in international cooperation and as a permanent bridge builder between the North and the South.

    ****

    El Secretario General se reunió con S.M. el Rey Felipe VI de España y ambos hablaron de los esfuerzos para avanzar en la agenda de la  financiación internacional para el desarrollo.

    El Secretario General expresó su profunda gratitud por el compromiso inquebrantable de España con el multilateralismo y con las Naciones Unidas, así como por su papel de liderazgo en la cooperación internacional y como constructor de puentes entre el Norte y el Sur.
     

    MIL OSI United Nations News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China, Vietnam Hold Border Meeting on Justice Cooperation

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    NANNING, June 29 (Xinhua) — Judicial and administrative organs of China and Vietnam held a border meeting from Saturday to Sunday in Nanning, capital of south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, to strengthen bilateral cooperation.

    This was the first meeting of its kind. It was attended by about 150 people from both countries, including representatives of justice departments and local judicial and administrative bodies, as well as legal professionals.

    During the talks, the parties reached broad consensus on issues such as the creation of diversified mechanisms for settling civil and commercial disputes at the border, expanding and deepening cooperation in the provision of legal services and joint training of highly qualified legal personnel.

    According to Chinese Justice Minister He Rong, relevant departments of the two countries should work together to strengthen exchanges and practical cooperation in various fields, including legislation, legal services, legal assistance, training of highly qualified specialists and the introduction of digital technologies.

    For his part, Vietnamese Minister of Justice Nguyen Hai Ninh pointed out that the meeting would contribute to building a peaceful and friendly border, deepening bilateral relations of comprehensive strategic cooperation and partnership, and jointly promoting the construction of a Vietnamese-Chinese community of shared destiny, which is of strategic importance.

    The participants discussed in detail issues of advocacy, conciliation procedures, international cooperation, legal assistance in civil and commercial cases, and training of personnel in the field of jurisprudence.

    During the meeting, a number of cooperation agreements were signed. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Hamas denies setting conditions for Gaza ceasefire

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    GAZA, June 29 (Xinhua) — Palestinian Hamas movement on Sunday denied reports that it had set conditions for a ceasefire deal in the Gaza Strip.

    In its press release, Hamas said that the information from the Sky News Arabia news channel about the alleged conditions it had put forward for accepting a deal on prisoner exchange and a ceasefire in the Palestinian enclave were “baseless and full of lies.”

    “We reject this completely and utterly. The purpose of this is to divert attention from war crimes and cheap incitement against Hamas and the Palestinian resistance, and to distort their positions and declared positions,” Hamas stressed.

    Hamas is demanding that its political bureau not be harmed and that its assets not be confiscated, detained or restricted abroad, Sky News Arabia reported on Saturday, citing a Palestinian source.

    According to the same source, Hamas also insists on including its representatives or people associated with the movement and close to it in the future administration and security apparatus of the Gaza Strip.

    Meanwhile, on Sunday, senior Hamas leader Mahmoud Mardavi accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of “setting impossible conditions aimed at derailing any swap deal and refusing to honor what he had previously agreed to.”

    On June 27, US President Donald Trump said a ceasefire agreement in Gaza could be reached within the next week. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: At least 71 killed in Israeli strike on Tehran prison: judiciary official

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    TEHRAN, June 29 (Xinhua) — At least 71 people were killed in an Israeli strike on Evin prison in the Iranian capital Tehran last week, Iranian judiciary spokesman Asghar Jahangir said on Sunday.

    As reported by the Mizan news agency, which is linked to the Iranian judicial system, citing A. Jahangir, the victims of the attack on June 23 were prison staff, conscript soldiers, prisoners and visiting family members, and residents of nearby houses.

    The spokesman noted that Israel had once again demonstrated its lack of commitment to international law with its “terrorist and brutal” attack on the prison. According to Jahangir, the infirmary, technical and engineering departments and the visiting area inside the prison complex were hit.

    He called the attack a “total crime,” adding that nearby homes were badly damaged and residents were seriously injured. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Spain Men’s Team and Netherlands Women’s Team Win 2025 FIBA 3×3 World Cup

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    ULAN BATOR, June 29 (Xinhua) — The Spanish men’s team and the Netherlands women’s team won gold medals at the 2025 FIBA 3×3 Basketball World Cup, which concluded Sunday evening in the capital of Mongolia.

    The Spanish men’s team beat Switzerland 21-17 in the final, while the Dutch women’s team defeated Mongolia 15-9.

    The 9th 3×3 Basketball World Championship, held from June 23 to 29 in Ulaanbaatar, featured 20 men’s and 20 women’s teams. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News