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Category: Europe

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Rise in school leavers in positive destinations.

    Source: Scottish Government

    Growing numbers in Higher and Further Education in 2023-24.

    The number of young people in work, training or further study nine months after they left school has increased.

    The proportion of school leavers in a positive destination was 93.1% in 2023-24, up from 92.8%, according to the annual Summary Statistics for Follow-up Leaver Destinations. This is now at a similar level to the pre-pandemic peak of 93.3% in 2017-18.

    The increase over the latest year has been driven by increases in school leavers reaching Higher education (from 37.1% to 38.1%) and Further education (from 21.2% to 21.9%).

    Over the longer term, the proportion in positive destinations is up from 85.9% in 2009-10.

    Education Secretary Jenny Gilruth said:

    “These figures show the proportion of Scotland’s young people achieving positive destinations is almost back to pre-pandemic levels and at a near record high.

    “The increase among those in Higher and Further Education is hugely encouraging and testament to the hard work of those young people and the extraordinary support provided by Scotland’s teachers, lecturers and other support staff.

    “The gap in positive destinations between young people from our most and least deprived communities has more than halved since 2009-10, but this latest data shows we still have more to do. We also know this cohort of young people faced significant disruption to their education during the pandemic.

    “A range of support, including from careers advisers and the Developing the Young Workforce network, is available for young people considering their options after school. I am determined to ensure young people can access the right help they need to enable them into a positive destination and this Government will continue to invest in opportunities for young people across Scotland.”

     Background

    Summary statistics for follow-up leaver destinations, no. 7: 2025 edition – gov.scot

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council Tax Collection Statistics, 2024-25

    Source: Scottish Government

    An Accredited Official Statistics Publication for Scotland.

    Scotland’s Chief Statistician today released the latest Council Tax Collection Statistics which provides Council Tax collection figures for Scottish local authorities, up to and including the financial year 2024-25.

    In 2024-25 for Scotland as a whole, the total amount of Council Tax billed (after Council Tax Reduction) was £3.077 billion. Of this total, £2.938 billion, or 95.5 per cent, was collected by 31 March 2025. This provisional in-year collection rate is the same as the figure for the previous year.

    Between 1999-00 and 2024-25, the overall total amount of Council Tax billed in Scotland was £54.034 billion, of which £52.531 billion, or 97.2 per cent, was collected by 31 March 2025.   

    Provisional in-year Council Tax collection rates for 2024-25 ranged from 89.5 per cent to 98.2 per cent across the 32 local authorities. In-year collection rates have exceeded 95 per cent over the past decade, except in 2020-21 during the Covid-19 pandemic.

    Background

    The full statistical publication is available at: Council Tax Collection Statistics, 2024-25. This publication contains figures on Council Tax, covering the financial years 1999-00 to 2024-25.

    The information published is used by Scottish Government to monitor council’s collection levels relating to council tax. Information is collected relating to the amounts billed and received and the year to which the payment refers.  This information is also required by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) for national accounts purposes, and by the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA).

    The next annual publication for financial year 2025-26 will be published in June 2026.  

    Further information on Council Tax Collection statistics, including previous publications can be accessed on the Scottish Government’s Local Government Finance statistics pages. 

    Official statistics are produced by professionally independent statistical staff – more information on the standards of official statistics in Scotland can be accessed at: About our statistics – gov.scot

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Building positive relationships in schools

    Source: Scottish Government

    Guidance on behaviour and consequences published.

    New guidance setting out a range of approaches for schools to consider when responding to behaviour has been published.

    Developed with input from headteachers, teaching unions, local government and educational psychologists, the guidance promotes building positive relationships and behaviour across the whole school community. It focuses on improving outcomes by reinforcing positive behaviour and working to reduce the likelihood of negative behaviour occurring in future.

    Various approaches are available to schools, ranging from classroom management approaches, to support strategies and the use of exclusion as a last resort.

    The guidance has been developed in collaboration with the Scottish Advisory Group on Relationships and Behaviour in Schools (SAGRABIS), which is jointly chaired with COSLA, to reflect that it is local government who have the responsibility for delivering education in Scotland.

    During a visit to St Brendan’s Primary School in Motherwell, Education Secretary Jenny Gilruth met with teachers and parents to understand the importance of building positive relationships within schools.

    Ms Gilruth said:

    The majority of children and young people behave well in school, but where someone needs support with their behaviour, it is important that schools can respond in ways that are appropriate, supportive and respond to the needs of each individual child. Evidence clearly shows young people need structure and boundaries to support their development and having predictable consequences helps them to feel safe.

    “Responding to behaviour in our schools requires all members of the school community – staff, children and young people and parents and carers – to work together to identify the values that underpin school life, how this translates into expectations of behaviour, and to support appropriate responses. We want to create a strong partnership between home and school to help create a consistent, supportive environment where children feel safe, respected, and are better able to learn and thrive. 

    “This guidance takes account of the concerns about behaviour I have heard from teachers, support staff and teaching unions, and will be an important tool in ensuring that they are properly supported in our schools.”

    Maura Oates, headteacher at St Brendan’s Primary school said:

    “Here in St. Brendan’s Primary we consistently work hard to ensure the care and wellbeing needs of children and their families are met with warmth, care and consideration. We feel that this results in a calm, relaxed and nurturing environment where children are respectful, supportive and kind to each other.”

    “Our values are evident across the school as we are committed to ensuring very high standards for all children. We consulted all children, parents and staff when creating our vision, values and aims. Our aims reflect Gospel values and the UNCRC. These shared values are evident across the school and are developed across the curriculum. We have a very good understanding of the socio-economic context of the school and its place within the community.”

    Background

    This is the latest commitment to be delivered through the joint Relationships and Behaviour in schools action plan with COSLA.

    Guidance is clear that exclusion should only be used as a last resort, where proportionate and there is no appropriate alternative.

    Guidance on risk assessments will support schools to consider how they manage the risk of harm occurring, or a pattern of behaviour that causes, or is likely to cause, harm to self or others.

    Guidance on fostering positive, inclusive and safe school environments.

    Risk assessment guidance for violent, aggressive and dangerous behaviour.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Scrapping the two child limit to help end child poverty

    Source: Scottish Government

    Shirley-Anne Somerville announces start date for key policy.

    The Scottish Government will effectively scrap the impact of the two-child limit from 2nd March 2026, Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville has confirmed.

    On a visit to Busy Bees Bellfield parent and toddler group in Portobello, Ms Somerville said the introduction of the Two Child Limit Payment will mean 20,000 fewer children will be living in relative poverty in 2026-27, according to Scottish Government modelling.

    Speaking ahead of a statement to parliament on the publication of the annual report on Best Start, Bright Futures, the Scottish Government’s child poverty strategy, Ms Somerville said:

    “The Scottish Government has consistently called on the UK Government to end the two-child cap. Reports suggest that they are looking at the impact it is having. But the evidence is clear and families and Scotland can’t wait any longer for the UK Government to make up its mind to do the right thing and scrap the cap once and for all.

    “The Two Child Limit Payment will begin accepting applications in March next year. At less than 15 months from when we announced this in the Scottish budget, this will be the fastest that a Scottish social security benefit has been delivered.

    “This builds upon the considerable action we have taken in Scotland, including delivering unparalleled financial support through our Scottish Child Payment, investing to clear school meal debts, and continuing to support almost 10,000 children by mitigating the UK Government’s Benefit Cap as fully as possible.

    “However, austerity decisions taken by the UK Government are holding back Scotland’s progress. Modelling published in March makes clear that if the UK Government act decisively on child poverty, they could help to take an estimated 100,000 children out of poverty this year.”

    Background:

    • On average, households with children in the poorest 10% of households are, this year, estimated to be £2,600 a year better off because of Scottish Government policies. This is projected to grow to an average of £3,700 a year by 2029-30. Child poverty modelling: update – gov.scot
    • Scrapping the Two Child Limit will help keep thousands of children out of poverty and reduce the depth of poverty faced for many more. The Scottish Government’s own modelling suggests 20,000 fewer children will be living in relative poverty in 2026-27 once this payment is introduced and the Scottish Fiscal Commission estimates that overall around 43,000 children in Scotland will benefit from mitigation of the two-child limit in 2026-27.
    • The Scottish Fiscal Commission has estimated the cost of the Two Child Limit Payment to be £155 million in the  financial year 2026-2027.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Strong winds and thunderstorms are expected in Moscow

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    According to weather forecasters, thunderstorms with rain are expected in some places in the capital in the coming hours and until the end of the day. During thunderstorms, the wind will increase, its gusts can reach 15 meters per second.

    Residents are asked to be careful on the streets, not to be near billboards and shaky structures, not to take shelter under trees and not to park cars near them.

    In an emergency, you must call the emergency services at the single number: 112 or the single helpline of the Main Directorate of the Ministry of Emergency Situations of Russia for the city of Moscow: 7 495 637-31-01.

    Get the latest news quicklyofficial telegram channel the city of Moscow.

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    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/155359073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: What has been prepared for children at the Summer in Moscow sites from June 18 to 22

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Fairy tale quizzes, drawing workshops, retro games, the Rock, Paper, Scissors championship and much more — as part of the Summer in Moscow for Children project, a rich program has been prepared for young Muscovites and their parents. What to do at city venues from June 18 to 22 — in our article.

    Retro games and drawing workshops

    The capital’s venues are hosting a large-scale championship “Rock, Paper, Scissors”. Every day, children and adults can compete on Tverskoy Boulevard, as well as in the southwest of the capital. On June 18, the competition will be held on Nagornaya Street (building 29, building 4), on June 19, participants are expected in Vorontsovsky Park (building 3), and on June 20 – on Feodosiyskaya Street (building 7, building 6). The venues will be open from 15:00 to 20:00.

    In addition to the championship in the popular children’s game, realistic races will also take place on Tverskoy Boulevard. Participants will be able to immerse themselves in the world of motorsports, sitting in racing seats and pressing the pedals. Children from 150 to 210 centimeters tall are invited.

    A large retro games area has been prepared for visitors. There you can play on iconic consoles from different years. Pickleball, gorodki, petanque, croquet, ping-pong and even a large climbing wall await guests. Professionals will help you understand the rules and observe safety precautions.

    Fans of creativity will enjoy Chistoprudny Boulevard. There, in the fresh air, everyone will be taught how to create landscapes, sketches, and still lifes in various artistic techniques. On June 18, guests will be given a master class called “Art Beach”, on June 19, a master class called “Summer on the Chile”, and on June 20, an “Art Challenge”.

    The duration of one lesson is 45 minutes. Master classes will be held every hour from 12:00 to 20:00.

    Painting lessons will also be organized on Sretensky Boulevard. On June 18, there will be a master class called “The Scarlet Flower”, on June 19 — “City Streets”, and on June 20 — “Blooming Field”. Classes will be held every hour from 12:00 to 20:00.

    Guests will also be able to create unique works of art at the Art Studio on Strastnoy Boulevard. Children over six years old are invited to participate. On June 18, there will be master classes in watercolor painting called Fruit Lemonade and Starry Night. On June 19, children will be able to draw Moscow landmarks and summer clouds with wax crayons. The classes on June 20 will once again be devoted to watercolor painting. Guests will be introduced to this technique at the master classes Flower Stained Glass and Fruit Slices. The classes will be held from 12:00 to 19:00.

    In addition, from 12:00 to 20:00 on Strastnoy Boulevard, young visitors will be able to enjoy a busy board with coloring pages, an art house with stickers, and a basketball court.

    DIY Bracelet and Party with DJ

    An active program has also been prepared in the Green Market of the Made in Moscow project on Bolotnaya Square (Repinsky Square). On June 19 at 14:15 on the main stage there will be a meeting with TRIZ pedagogy expert Evgeniya Gin. She will tell children and their parents how to develop thinking and be creative.

    At 18:00, the Green Market will host a master class on making children’s bracelets. Participants will be told how to create a design, determine the size of the future product, and tie reliable knots.

    At 20:00, the film “Fedya. People’s Footballer” will be shown at the “Youth Point” festival on Bolotnaya Square. Participation in the event is free, but a registration.

    And every Wednesday at 8:00 pm on Bolotnaya Square there are youth parties with a DJ.

    Circus divertissements and musical performances

    All summer long, on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, there will be circus entertainment for the whole family. Aerial gymnasts, equilibrists, jugglers, clowns and four-legged artists will perform for guests in the Moskino Cinema Park and Izmailovsky Park. Also on June 20, the third tent will open in the Yuzhnoye Butovo Landscape Park. Spectators will be able to see acrobatic numbers, clown skits and exciting stunts with the participation of artists from the famous Bolshoi Moscow Circus on Vernadsky Avenue.

    On Fridays, performances are held from 19:00 to 20:30, and on Saturdays and Sundays – from 14:00 to 15:30 and from 18:00 to 19:30. You can find out more and buy tickets on the official website project.

    The Zaryadye Hall has also prepared a children’s program for the weekend. On June 22, as part of the III Summer Music Festival, the symphonic fairy tale with sand animation “The Wizard of the Emerald City” will return to its stage. On the same day, June 22, People’s Artist of Russia Yulia Rutberg, together with the State Academic Big Symphony Orchestra named after P.I. Tchaikovsky under the direction of Denis Lotoev, will present the program “Artist and War”. The program includes wartime memories from diaries and memoirs, excerpts from articles related to the difficult years of Russian history, as well as music by great composers of the 20th century.

    And at the festival “Theater Boulevard” Young residents and guests of the capital will be able to see several productions. On June 17, a musical performance will be shown on Chistoprudny Boulevard “Curious Baby Elephant” about children asking questions and adults who are too lazy to answer them. Starts at 16:00.

    On the same day, at the Clown House on Tsvetnoy Boulevard at 8:00 p.m. you can watch a production “Mechanicus”This is an interactive performance with pantomime and poetic clowning.

    On June 18, in the amphitheater of the Polytech Museum Park, artists from the Moscow Illusion Theater will perform a modern show “Teleport”. Guests can expect tricks with disappearances, transformations and flights. The beginning is at 19:00. And on June 19 at 18:00 there will be a performance “My grandfather was a cherry”It is based on a touching, funny and at the same time sad story about family, devotion and loneliness.

    On June 20 at 16:00 on Chistoprudny Boulevard the production will be presented “Kashtanka”The play will tell about the adventures of a young dog who lost his not very good owner in a big city.

    On June 21, a performance will be shown in the amphitheater of the Polytech Museum Park “Family Bakery”. Starts at 17:00.

    Evening readings

    Citizens are also invited to the project’s events. “Book in the City”.

    On June 21 at 12:00, Pushkin Square will host a quiz on the sea tales “The Little Mermaid,” “Sinbad the Sailor,” and “Sadko,” as well as a master class “The Sea” on creating appliques for children aged six to nine.

    On June 22 at 4:00 p.m. there will be a presentation of the book “Letters from Lidochka M.” dedicated to children of wartime.

    And at 18:00 in the park there will be evening readings with Anton Shagin. The author will also present his book “Neblyandiya. Poems for Children”.

    Introduction to the world of cinema

    On June 21 and 22, the Moskino Cinema Park invites you to go on a walk. On the family excursion “Cinema Expedition”, young guests and their parents will learn how films are shot in different genres, walk through Moscow in the 1940s, see post-war Berlin and a fragment of the Reichstag steps. Participants will also look into the props and costume center “Firebird” and examine rare items that have appeared in the frame more than once. The excursion will be of interest to children over 10 years old and adults who want to learn new facts about the creation of cinema.

    The excursions will take place at 12:00, 14:00, 15:00 and 16:00. You can choose a convenient time and pay for participation atwebsite cinema park.

    Entertaining origami master classes have also been prepared for guests. On the central square of the cinema park on weekends at 12:00 and 15:35, young visitors will make paper poppies and carnations, at 13:10 and 16:45 – cranes, and at 14:20 and 17:55 – a three-dimensional composition “Eternal Flame”. You can take part in the master class atentrance ticket to the cinema park.

    The Gorky Film Studio also invites young Muscovites and their parents on a tour. Guests are expected on June 18 at 15:00 on Sergei Eisenstein Street (8, building 1). Participants will learn about the history of the film studio and how films that have become part of the golden fund of Russian cinema were created. Guests will be told interesting facts about the lives and work of outstanding directors and actors, and will be shown costumes and props from the films Guest from the Future (1984), The Kingdom of Crooked Mirrors (1963), Frost (1964), Seventeen Moments of Spring (1973), Officers (1971) and others.

    The excursion will be interesting for children over six years old. You can buy a ticket atwebsite.

    Program in museums and parks

    Interesting programs have been prepared for young Muscovites and their parents in the capital’s museums and parks.

    On June 20 from 15:00 to 16:00 in the forest libraries in the Vorontsovo estate, the 50th Anniversary of October Park and the Khodynka Field Park a children’s quiz will be held. Participants will recall forgotten literary facts about the life and work of writers and learn new ones.

    The Inspiration Festival will be held at the Kolomenskoye Museum-Reserve on June 21. Guests will enjoy a musical program, performances by orchestras and jazz bands, master classes in art therapy in the open air, functional training, yoga and stretching. Admission is free. The landmark is the palace of Tsar Alexei Mikhailovich.

    Get the latest news quicklyofficial telegram channel the city of Moscow.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Five creative universities of the country will perform at the festival “Teatralny Boulevard”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    At the festival “Theatre Boulevard”, which is taking place within the framework of the Summer in Moscow project, this season will feature student groups from five leading creative universities in the country. They have prepared more than a dozen productions in various genres for the audience, said the Minister of the Moscow Government, head of the capital’s Department of Culture Alexey Fursin.

    “For young artists, this is an opportunity to try themselves out on an open stage, in front of a large and diverse audience, to offer the festival guests their view of theatrical art and find their audience,” noted Alexey Fursin.

    Performances by students from the country’s leading creative universities are planned: the Russian Institute of Theatre Arts – GITIS, the Boris Shchukin Theatre Institute, the Moscow Art Theatre School, the Oleg Tabakov Moscow Theatre School and the Russian State Institute of Performing Arts.

    Student groups will present 15 works in different genres, including classical dramatic productions, concerts, a plastic performance, and performances for children.

    Thus, students of Nina Chusova’s workshop of the Russian Institute of Theatre Arts – GITIS presented the production “The Marriage of Balzaminov. Attempt No. 3. Unreal Scenes from Real Life”, and Elena Poldi’s students together with the “Antique Circus” showed “Tatiana’s Dreams, or Alexander Sergeevich is Well!”. Graduates of Vyacheslav Gordeev’s workshop will introduce viewers to the project “Cuba – My Love!”. The Ivan Popovsky Opera and Drama Studio has already performed the diploma performance “Eugene Onegin”.

    Students of the Boris Shchukin Theatre Institute showed the audience “Our Final Concert” (artistic directors of the course Pavel Lyubimtsev and Vladimir Tartakovsky), “Musical Vinaigrette” and “Aibolit” (artistic director of the course Anna Dubrovskaya).

    The Nemirovich-Danchenko School-Studio (Institute) at the A.P. Chekhov Moscow Art Academic Theatre presented two productions at once. Students from the Marina Brusnikina and Sergei Shchedrin workshop, with the participation of the Praktika Theatre, prepared a concert for the audience entitled “Fate, Fates, Fate, Fate, About Fate”, and students from the Evgeny Pisarev workshop presented a plastic performance entitled “The City Where We…”.

    Students of the Russian State Institute of Performing Arts under the artistic direction of Vladimir Norenko presented the production “Who Visits in the Morning?” And students of the Moscow Theatre School of Oleg Tabakov showed the plays “Makers of History: Shalyapin”, and the audience is also awaited by the productions “Forgotten August”, “Illusion Art” and a concert program by the school’s students.

    The “Teatralny Bulvar” festival is organized by the capital’s Department of Culture on the initiative of Sergei Sobyanin. It is held in within the framework of the project “Summer in Moscow”. Information about the festival, including the current program, poster, map of venues and news, is available atofficial website and in the telegram channel “Theater Boulevard”.

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

    Get the latest news quicklyofficial telegram channel the city of Moscow.

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    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/155343073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: A creative evening will be held at the Southern River Terminal as part of the “Art in the Metro” project

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    On June 20, the Southern River Terminal will host an open cultural event of the Art in the Metro project. From 16:00 to 18:30, guests will be treated to refreshments and a rich program.

    One of the central events will be the creation of a collective painting. The sketch will be prepared by the project artists, and everyone will be able to contribute to the work. The musical part of the event will be presented by the artists of the project “Music in the Metro”.

    Pre-registration is required to participate. You can register at link.

    “As part of the Art in the Metro project, we hold off-site creative events. Such meetings bring together artists, passengers and everyone who appreciates art. We continue to develop the capital’s transport as a cultural venue on behalf of Sergei Sobyanin,” said Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Transport and Industry

    Maxim Liksutov.

    The Art in the Metro project was organized by the Moscow Metro in the summer of 2024. Within its framework, regular river electric vessels, metro stations, electric depots and other transport sites are transformed into open spaces for creative expression of artists. This gave passengers the opportunity to enjoy art in everyday life, as well as get acquainted with its directions.

    The project is being implemented Department of Transport and Development of Road Transport Infrastructure of Moscow and the capital’s metro with the support of the Moscow Exhibition Halls association.

    The selection of new participants for the Art in the Metro project has been completed“Art in the Metro”: the project’s artists worked in a tram depot for the first time

    Get the latest news quickly official telegram channel the city of Moscow.

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    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/155338073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: A test flight on the Kashgar-Bishkek passenger air route was successfully conducted

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, June 17 (Xinhua) — An Airbus A320 passenger plane took off from Laining International Airport in Kashgar Prefecture of northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region on Sunday for Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, marking the successful launch of a trial flight on the route, Xinjiang Daily reported, citing a source in Kashgar Customs.

    This is also the first international passenger air route opened this year at this airport, the local customs service added.

    The above flight was operated by a Kyrgyzstan airline. After the successful test flight, round trip flights on the new route are expected to be operated once a week. Meanwhile, the number of flights may be increased according to actual needs.

    According to local customs officials, the opening of this air route not only facilitates bilateral people-to-people exchanges, but also brings new opportunities for cooperation in trade, economics, culture and tourism to both sides. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Intangible Cultural Heritage Workshops Promote Prosperity and Employment in China’s Rural Areas

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, June 17 (Xinhua) — Intangible cultural heritage (ICH) workshops have become a powerful engine for rural development in China.

    According to official data, there are currently over 11,000 such workshops in the country, which play an active role in preserving and developing traditional crafts, creating jobs and stimulating the local economy.

    These workshops are located in 2,005 county-level administrative areas, including 670 formerly poor counties and 135 key counties that received assistance under the national rural revitalization program, and have provided employment to more than 1.2 million people in related industries.

    Notably, more than 4,300 workshops operate directly in villages, providing flexible working conditions that are particularly suitable for the elderly, women and people with disabilities – they can work from their place of residence and receive daily wages.

    The Chinese government has been actively promoting the role of intangible cultural heritage in cultural preservation and economic development. In December 2021, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the People’s Republic of China and other central government departments issued a regulation specifically regulating the establishment and operation of ICH workshops, focusing on cultivating talented successors, creating jobs, and supporting the development of traditional crafts.

    At the local level, 18 provincial-level administrative units have put forward similar policies. These policies concern the certification of ICH workshops, the management of these establishments, the provision of financial and marketing assistance to them, and the regulation of the allocation of necessary resources to ensure their development.

    In Zhejiang Province, for example, a “workshop plus farmers” mechanism was established in Xiaoshan District, whereby the provincial-level NCI workshop signed contracts to supply Xiaoshan pickled radish, the craft of which is listed in the NCI register of the said province, with more than 40,000 local farmers, resulting in the production value of this delicacy reaching 300 million yuan (about 42 million US dollars) in 2024.

    As of March 2025, the number of artisans who inherit state-level intangible cultural heritage in China has increased to nearly 4,000. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China issues blue alert for heavy rains, yellow warning for heat

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, June 17 (Xinhua) — China’s National Meteorological Center (NMC) on Tuesday issued a blue alert for heavy rain and a yellow alert for heat waves in some parts of the country.

    According to the NMC, heavy rainfall is expected in some parts of Guangdong, Sichuan and Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region from 08:00 Tuesday to 08:00 Wednesday, while short-term heavy rainfall with an hourly rainfall of 70 mm or more, accompanied by thunderstorms and strong winds, will occur in some places in these regions.

    The NMC called on local authorities to carry out the necessary measures in preparation for the natural disaster and to check drainage systems in cities, agricultural lands and fish ponds.

    In addition, according to the NMC, on Tuesday afternoon in some areas of northern China, in areas along the Yellow River, Huaihe River, Hanjiang River and Yangtze River, in some areas in the northwest and southwest of the country, as well as in the western part of the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, in the Turpan Basin and in the basin in the southern part of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, the air temperature will reach 35-39 degrees Celsius.

    According to the forecast, in some places in Hebei, Henan provinces and the Turpan Basin, the maximum temperature may exceed 40 degrees Celsius.

    The NMC recommended avoiding outdoor activities and taking precautions to protect vulnerable groups such as the elderly and children.

    Let us recall that China has a four-tier weather warning system, with the highest level of danger indicated by red, followed in descending order by orange, yellow and blue. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The Chinese-Russian-Mongolian tournament on health qigong and wushu has ended in Manzhouli

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, June 17 (Xinhua) — The 2025 China-Russia-Mongolia Health Qigong and Wushu Tournament ended Monday in Manzhouli City, north China’s Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. A total of 367 athletes from 47 teams from three countries took part in the friendly competition over four days.

    Ultimately, the team from the Hailar City People’s Fitness Center and the delegation of the Buryatia Wushu Federation won the health qigong and wushu competitions, respectively, the Jintai information and consulting platform on the Renmin Ribao newspaper website reported.

    “This is my fourth time competing in Manzhouli and every time I notice the hospitality and energy of this city,” said one of the Mongolian athletes.

    Another young athlete from Russia was deeply impressed by the unique architecture in Manzhouli. “I am delighted that here you can both take part in competitions and get acquainted with Chinese culture,” she shared.

    During the tournament, a special master class on health qigong was also organized for guests from three countries, where traditional Chinese exercise techniques were demonstrated by professors from Beijing University of Physical Education and Inner Mongolia Normal University.

    The China-Russia-Mongolia Health Qigong and Wushu Tournament was established in 2016, and has since become an iconic brand of sports events that promotes sports and cultural exchanges between the three countries. In the future, the border city of Manzhouli will continue the integrated development model of “sports culture tourism” to inject new energy into the deepening friendship of the peoples of the three neighboring countries, said Li Yanjun, chairman of the Wushu and Health Qigong Association of Manzhouli City. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: American Bar Association Sues Trump Administration

    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

    WASHINGTON, June 16 (Xinhua) — The American Bar Association (ABA) on Monday filed a lawsuit in federal court in Washington, D.C., seeking to block what it called a “campaign of intimidation” waged by the Donald Trump administration against major law firms.

    “Never before has the ABA felt such a pressing need to protect its members, their profession, and the rule of law,” the association’s lawsuit says.

    The ABA is the largest voluntary association of lawyers in the United States, with approximately 400,000 members.

    The lawsuit marks an escalation of tensions between the ABA and the Trump administration, which has cut federal funding to the association and sought to curtail its longtime role in evaluating federal judicial candidates.

    Four law firms filed separate lawsuits challenging the administration’s orders that revoked their security clearances and ended federal contracts. Three of them won their cases, and one lawsuit is pending. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Israel says Iranian military chief killed in Tehran strike

    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

    JERUSALEM, June 17 (Xinhua) — The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said Tuesday that Ali Shadmani, Iran’s chief of military staff and one of the Islamic Republic’s highest-ranking military officers, was killed in an overnight airstrike on a command center in Tehran.

    The strike was carried out by Israeli aircraft after receiving “precise intelligence” and a “sudden opportunity,” the IDF said in a statement.

    A. Shadmani, a senior military commander and closest to Iranian leader Ali Khamenei, commanded the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and the Iranian army.

    He was appointed commander of Iran’s armed forces at the start of the ongoing five-day war after his predecessor, Alaa Ali Rashid, was killed in an Israeli strike that started the current fighting.

    The killing of A. Shadmani “continued a series of assassinations of Iran’s top military command and disrupted the chain of command,” the IDF said. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The 3rd China International Supply Chain Promotion Expo will establish a new zone dedicated to supply chain innovation

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, June 17 (Xinhua) — The 3rd China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE) to be held in July will set up a special exhibition area dedicated to supply chain innovation, the event organizer said Tuesday.

    The new exhibition platform aims to promote the commercialization of technologies developed in laboratories and the smooth integration of innovation and industrial chains, according to the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT).

    According to CCPIT, this year more than 230 domestic and foreign companies will take part in the exhibition for the first time, including the American technology giant NVIDIA.

    Preparations for the upcoming exhibition are currently underway. At present, 650 companies from 75 countries, regions and international organizations have confirmed their participation. More than 65 percent of exhibitors are Global Fortune 500 companies or leading enterprises in the industry, while overseas exhibitors account for 35 percent of the total number of participants.

    The third CISCE will be held in Beijing from July 16 to 20, and Thailand will be invited as the guest of honor.

    It is the world’s first national-level supply chain exhibition that has become an international public product. According to CCPIT, the exhibition, first held in 2023, has contributed to building safer, more stable, more open and more inclusive global industrial and supply chains. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • Israel Intercepts 30 Iranian Drones as Arab Nations Call for De-escalation

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Israel’s military intercepted and eliminated 30 drones from Iran overnight, the Israel Defense Forces said Tuesday, describing it as the least impactful night by the Iranian attacks since the beginning of this operation. The IDF also reported Iran fired several ballistic missiles toward Israel, though the exact number was not specified.

    Around 20 missiles fired from Iran on Tuesday triggered sirens across Israel, including northern and southern areas, central Israel, Jerusalem, and the West Bank. Reports indicated a direct hit in central Israel, with property damage confirmed by Israeli police, though authorities have not officially confirmed the strike.

    The foreign ministers of 20 Arab and Muslim countries, including Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Turkey, and Pakistan, denounced Israel’s attacks on Iran and called for de-escalation in a joint statement. The ministers expressed grave concern over the dangerous escalation in the region and urged all parties to settle disputes peacefully while respecting state sovereignty and territorial integrity. They also emphasized the importance of creating a Middle East free of nuclear weapons and urged countries to join the Non-Proliferation Treaty.

    US President Donald Trump called for the immediate evacuation of all of Tehran, issuing the warning shortly after Israeli forces told residents in northeastern Tehran to leave ahead of planned strikes. The Pentagon announced deployment of additional military capabilities to West Asia to enhance defensive posture amid the escalating conflict.

    Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz later clarified that Israel has no intention of deliberately harming Tehran’s residents. “There is no intention to physically harm the residents of Tehran as the murderous dictator does to the residents of Israel,” Katz said.

    Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed Monday that the strikes have set Iran’s nuclear program back “years” and said he is in daily contact with Trump, who left the G7 summit in Canada early amid reports he was heading to Washington to work on a ceasefire deal.

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: British aerospace manufacturers to benefit from UK-US trade deal

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    British aerospace manufacturers to benefit from UK-US trade deal

    British aerospace manufacturers to benefit from UK-US trade deal as further details announced

    • UK aerospace sector to see tariffs removed completely as further progress is made on the UK-US trade deal
    • Benefits of deal to be felt by UK auto sector also, who will be able to export to the US by the end of the month under the newly lowered 10% tariff quota 
    • It will save hundreds of millions annually for plane and car makers with lowered tariffs and protect tens of thousands of jobs across both sectors , delivering on our Plan for Change

    For the first time, the US has committed to reducing tariffs on UK aerospace goods such as engines and similar aircraft parts from the general 10% tariff being applied to all other countries, which is expected to come into force by the end of the month.

    This deal is a huge win for the UK’s world-class aerospace sector currently facing additional 10% tariffs, helping make companies such as Rolls Royce more competitive and allowing them to continue to be at the cutting edge of innovation. 

    British car manufacturers can also breathe a sigh of relief as they will be able to export to the US at a 10% tariff rate as part of the recently agreed landmark UK-US trade deal by the end of the month.  

    The UK is the only country to have secured this agreement with the US which reduces car export tariffs from 27.5%, saves car manufacturers hundreds of millions a year, and protects tens of thousands of jobs, delivering on our Plan for Change.

    Business and Trade Secretary, Jonathan Reynolds said: 

    We agreed this deal with the US to ensure jobs and livelihoods in some of our most vital sectors were protected, and since then we have been focused on delivering those benefits to businesses. 

    Bringing trade deals into force can take several months, yet we are delivering on the first set of agreements in a matter of weeks. And we won’t stop there. 

    As part of our Plan for Change, this government is doing all it can to reduce the pressures on businesses by lowering costs, speeding up delivery times and helping them to navigate in a time of global uncertainty.  

    Chief Executive of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), Mike Hawes said:

    This is great news for the UK automotive industry, helping the sector avoid the severest level of tariffs and enabling many manufacturers to resume deliveries imminently.

    We wait to see the full details of the deal and how it will be administered but this will be a huge reassurance to those that work in the sector and bolster the confidence of our important US customers.

    The fact the UK has secured a deal, ahead of many competitors, and which makes automotive a priority, should be recognised as a significant achievement.

    Thanks to the UK-US deal, the UK is the only country to be exempt from the global tariff of 50% on steel and aluminium. As the Prime Minister and President Trump have again confirmed, we will continue to go further and make progress towards 0% tariffs on core steel products as agreed.  

    We have agreed reciprocal access to 13,000 metric tonnes beef for both US and British farmers – meaning the UK can export to the US too. We have been clear that any US imports will need to meet UK food safety standards, and that has not changed since we agreed this deal.

    Both countries remain focused on securing significantly preferential outcomes for the UK pharmaceutical sector and work will continue to protect industry from any further tariffs imposed as part of Section 232 investigations. 

    This deal is one of many international agreements this government has secured recently to boost our economy, including a trade deal with India which will add £4.8 billion to the UK economy and £2.2 billion in wages every year and a renewed EU deal which will add nearly £9 billion to the UK economy by 2040 on SPS and emissions measures alone. 

    Today’s announcement is the result of work happening at pace between both governments to lower the burden on UK businesses, especially the sectors most impacted by the tariffs. We will update Parliament on the implementation of quotas on US beef and ethanol, part of our commitment to the US under this deal.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Be summer-job ready with the HMRC app

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Be summer-job ready with the HMRC app

    Download the HMRC app for summer job success

    • Young people applying for a job this summer can download the HMRC app for instant access to the tax and salary details they need
    • More than 1.2 million young people aged 25 and under have downloaded the HMRC app to date
    • The HMRC app can be used to access an individual’s National Insurance number, employer history, tax code and pay details

    Young people finishing school, college or university and hoping to earn extra cash after their exams can download the HMRC app to get the details they need to be summer-job ready, says HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC).

    Jobseekers who use the HMRC app have their employment history to hand to get their job application in promptly. Once they start working, the HMRC app means they will have their tax code and National Insurance (NI) number to give to their employer to ensure they are paid correctly and pay the correct amount of tax, putting more money in the pockets of working people

    Between May and August last year, on average 40,000 additional young people were employed each month compared to September to December. Whether young people are looking for work in the hospitality industry, leisure, retail or fruit picking, downloading the HMRC app makes applying for a job simple, giving them instant access to the tax and salary details they need with minimal fuss.

    Young people make up a fifth of all HMRC app users with more than 1.2 million people aged 25 and under downloading it by April 2025.

    Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC’s Chief Customer Officer, said:

    Earning extra cash is important when young people have down time from studying. Downloading the HMRC app is a simple way to ensure they can apply for their job quickly and get on with earning extra cash.

    One of the most important pieces of information jobseekers need when starting a new job is their NI number. More than 146,000 people called the National Insurance helpline in the 12 months to the beginning of April reporting they had lost or forgotten their NI number.

    It’s quicker and easier for individuals to access their NI number via the HMRC app. They can download it to keep it safely in their phone’s digital wallet to use whenever it’s needed. In the 12 months to April 2025, there were almost 90,000 NI number downloads by app users aged 25 and under.

    Young people should keep their National Insurance number safe in their digital wallets and only share it with people, such as an employer, to help prevent possible identity fraud.

    HMRC is also reminding young people starting a new job to check their payslips regularly to ensure they’re getting paid what they’re entitled to receive under National Minimum Wage requirements. If they have any concerns they are not getting the correct pay, they can contact HMRC or ACAS to make a complaint.

    Further Information

    More information about the HMRC app. 

    People can download the app at the App Store or Google Play. Online reviews for the HMRC app is currently [4.8] stars on the App Store, and [4.6] stars on Google Play. 

    Once a customer has signed into the app for the first time, they can use facial recognition, their fingerprint or a 6-digit pin to get fast and secure access. 

    Customers who don’t have a Government Gateway user ID and password and may need evidence to prove their identity for example photo ID such as a UK passport or UK driving licence. 

    We’re urging customers never to share their Government Gateway user ID and password. Someone using these details could steal from them or make a fraudulent claim in their name.

    The current National Minimum Wage hourly rates, which increased on 1 April 2025, are:

    • Age 21 or over (National Living Wage): £12.21
    • Age 18 to 20: £10.00
    • Age under 18: £7.55

    Further detail and previous rates can be found on GOV.UK

    Latest earnings and employment statistics May 2025

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: IMF Executive Board Concludes 2025 Article IV Consultation with Namibia

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    June 17, 2025

    • Namibia’s economy faces challenges from heightened global trade policy tensions, increased weather shocks, a structural shift in the global diamond market, and high structural unemployment.
    • Ensuring macroeconomic stability requires maintaining fiscal prudence while creating space for growth-enhancing measures, managing the monetary policy to safeguard the peg, and enhancing the resilience of the financial sector.
    • To generate employment through inclusive private sector-led growth that is weather-shock-resilient, bold structural reforms are essential. Additionally, a comprehensive strategy is needed to leverage the potential opportunities presented by recent oil discoveries.

    Washington, DC: The Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) completed the Article IV Consultation for Namibia.[1] The authorities have consented to the publication of the Staff Report prepared for this consultation.[2]

    Namibia’s economic growth decelerated from 5.4 percent in 2022 to 3.7 percent in 2024 as a decline in production in response to lower diamond prices outweighed momentum stemming from rising gold and uranium prices. Oil exploration plateaued in 2024 following a spike in 2023, while agriculture contracted sharply due to the drought of 2023–24, the most severe in a century. Inflation has fallen, reflecting a drop in food and fuel prices in international markets.

    Looking ahead, growth is projected to remain subdued in the near and medium term. The end of the drought is expected to boost growth in 2025; however, increased global trade policy uncertainty, particularly related to U.S. tariffs, and the weak diamond market will dampen momentum, with growth forecast at 3¾ percent for 2025 and 2026. Over the medium term, growth is projected to be about 3 percent, constrained by structural rigidities despite increased public capital expenditure. Average CPI inflation is projected to ease to 4.1 percent in 2025 and remain around 4.5 percent in the medium term.

    Risks to the outlook are tilted to the downside. Key external downside risks include commodity price fluctuations, further worsening of global trade tensions, a deepening of economic fragmentation, and tighter global financial conditions. Domestic downside risks include social discontent resulting from continued high unemployment and inequality and increased volatility associated with weather shocks. Upside risks include an easing of global trade policy tensions and faster development of oil, gas, and green hydrogen projects.

    Executive Board Assessment[3]

    Executive Directors agreed with the thrust of the staff appraisal. They took positive note of Namibia’s economic resilience, with slowing inflation and improved external position, despite the challenging external environment and welcomed the new government’s commitment to fostering inclusive growth and build resilience to climate shocks. Noting the subdued growth outlook reflecting global trade policy uncertainty and domestic structural rigidities, high unemployment, and inequality, Directors emphasized the need for further efforts to harness Namibia’s economic potential and raise per capita income by promoting a private sector led, inclusive, weather resilient, and diversified economy.

    Directors welcomed the authorities’ commitment to maintaining fiscal discipline and creating space for growth enhancing measures. They called for sustained and larger fiscal consolidation over the medium term to entrench the favorable public debt dynamics and strengthen the external position. Directors stressed the need to accelerate fiscal reforms including enacting a comprehensive civil service reform to contain the wage bill, state owned enterprise reforms, strengthening public financial and investment management, and enhancing tax administration to solidify fiscal consolidation. At the same time, they recommended increasing public investment to enhance growth, expanding social protection, and building resilience to weather shocks. They encouraged the authorities to continue their efforts to establish, with Fund technical assistance, a strong governance framework for the sovereign wealth fund and a natural resource management framework to safeguard long term macroeconomic stability and support economic development.

    In the absence of capital outflows, Directors recommended gradually aligning the policy rate with that of the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) to safeguard the currency peg, taking advantage of SARB’s rate reductions. They stressed, however, that the Bank of Namibia should remain vigilant to economic conditions.

    Directors welcomed the continued progress in enhancing financial sector resilience, notably through the introduction of the bank resolution policy. They encouraged the authorities to continue to monitor risks including from the sovereign bank nexus and household debt. Directors recommended finalizing additional policy measures, including counter cyclical capital buffers and strengthened cooperation on crisis resolution. Continued efforts to strengthen the AML/CFT framework are crucial to expedite removal from the FATF grey list.

    Directors highlighted that bold structural reforms are essential to fostering sustainable, inclusive, and private sector led growth and improving external competitiveness. They recommended addressing key barriers, including by improving human capital and reducing skill mismatches, enhancing the business climate, strengthening governance, and fostering digitalization. Directors supported developing a set of policies aimed at harnessing prospective oil, gas, and green hydrogen for economic diversification and job creation.

    It is expected that the next Article IV Consultation with Namibia will be held on the standard 12-month cycle.

     

    Namibia: Selected Economic Indicators, 2022–30

    Population (2024, million):                                      3.0                           Per-capita GDP (2024, USD):                                                        4471.8

    Quota (current, millions of SDR, percent of total):  54.6                          Poverty (2015, percent of national poverty line):                         17.4

    Main exports:                                                          Diamonds, Fish, Gold, Uranium, Copper.

    Key export markets:                                                South Africa, Botswana, China, Zambia, and Belgium.

    2022

    2023

    2024

    2025

    2026

    2027

    2028

    2029

    2030

    Est.

    Proj.
                       

    Percent change, unless otherwise specified

    Output

    		                  

    Real GDP growth

    5.4

    4.4

    3.7

    3.8

    3.7

    2.9

    3.0

    3.0

    3.0

    Nominal GDP growth

    12.2

    11.3

    7.1

    8.8

    9.3

    7.4

    7.6

    7.6

    7.6

    Nominal GDP (billions of USD)

    205.6

    228.9

    245.1

    266.8

    291.7

    313.4

    337.1

    362.5

    389.9

    Nominal GDP per capita (USD)

    4,407

    4,236

    4,472

    4,673

    4,898

    5,037

    5,192

    5,346

    5,513

    GDP Deflator

    6.4

    6.6

    3.3

    4.9

    5.5

    4.4

    4.4

    4.4

    4.4

    Prices

    Consumer prices (average)

    6.1

    5.9

    4.2

    4.1

    4.5

    4.5

    4.5

    4.5

    4.5

    Consumer prices (end of period)

    6.9

    5.3

    3.4

    4.5

    4.5

    4.5

    4.5

    4.5

    4.5

    Percent of GDP, unless otherwise specified

    Central Government Budget 1/

    Revenue and grants 2/

    30.5

    35.1

    36.5

    33.2

    32.8

    33.1

    33.3

    33.3

    33.3

      of which: SACU receipts

    6.7

    10.5

    11.2

    7.7

    7.9

    8.2

    8.5

    8.5

    8.4

    Expenditure

    36.1

    37.6

    40.4

    38.8

    37.7

    36.8

    36.6

    36.5

    36.5

      Of which: personnel expenditure

    14.9

    13.9

    14.1

    13.5

    12.8

    12.3

    12.2

    12.2

    12.2

      Of which: capital expenditure and net lending

    3.1

    2.9

    3.9

    4.0

    3.9

    3.5

    3.5

    3.5

    3.5

    Primary balance

    -1.2

    2.7

    1.2

    -0.5

    0.2

    1.4

    1.7

    1.7

    1.7

    Overall fiscal balance

    -5.7

    -2.4

    -3.9

    -5.7

    -4.8

    -3.7

    -3.3

    -3.3

    -3.3

    Overall fiscal balance ex. SACU

    -12.4

    -12.8

    -15.1

    -13.4

    -12.8

    -12.0

    -11.8

    -11.7

    -11.7

    Public debt, gross

    67.5

    66.0

    66.2

    62.3

    62.2

    62.0

    61.1

    60.1

    59.3

    Investment and Savings

    Investment

    20.1

    27.3

    25.6

    22.1

    19.0

    17.8

    16.8

    16.8

    16.8

      Public

    2.6

    2.4

    2.4

    2.6

    2.5

    2.3

    2.3

    2.3

    2.3

      Others (incl. SOEs)

    14.1

    23.7

    21.3

    19.5

    16.5

    15.5

    14.5

    14.5

    14.5

      Change inventories

    3.4

    1.2

    2.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    Savings

    7.3

    12.0

    10.3

    6.6

    5.4

    5.2

    4.6

    5.1

    5.5

      Public

    -3.2

    -0.2

    0.1

    -1.3

    -1.1

    -0.4

    0.1

    0.2

    0.2

      Others (incl. SOEs)

    10.6

    12.2

    10.2

    7.9

    6.5

    5.6

    4.5

    4.8

    5.3

    Percent change, unless otherwise specified

    Money and Credit

    Broad money

    0.0

    10.7

    9.7

    9.1

    8.6

    7.9

    8.4

    7.7

    7.6

    Credit to the private sector

    4.2

    2.8

    3.5

    4.9

    6.2

    4.1

    5.4

    5.5

    5.5

    BoN repo rate (percent) 3/

    6.75

    7.75

    7.00

    6.75

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …
     

                                                                                       Percent of GDP, unless otherwise specified

    Balance of Payments

    		                    

    Current account balance

    -12.6

    -15.3

    -15.3

    -15.5

    -13.7

    -12.6

    -12.1

    -11.7

    -11.3

    Financial account balance

    -13.3

    -15.9

    -17.2

    -9.3

    -15.4

    -13.6

    -12.3

    -11.8

    -11.8

    Gross official reserves

    22.3

    23.2

    25.1

    18.4

    20.1

    21.2

    21.5

    21.6

    22.2

    Reserves (in months of imports)

    3.9

    3.8

    4.4

    3.4

    3.8

    4.1

    4.2

    4.2

    4.5

    External debt

    71.7

    76.0

    74.6

    68.0

    67.5

    66.8

    65.5

    63.6

    61.8

    of which: public (incl. IMF) 4/

    17.5

    16.6

    14.7

    7.9

    7.3

    6.8

    6.4

    6.0

    5.5

    Exchange rate

    REER (percent, yoy)

    -3.6

    -6.3

    2.7

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    Average exchange rate (Namibian dollar per USD)

    16.4

    18.5

    18.3

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    Sources: Namibian authorities; and IMF staff calculations.

    1/ Figures are for the fiscal year as a percent of GDP. The fiscal year runs from April 1 to March 31.

    2/ Revenue excludes the line “transactions in assets and liabilities” classified as part of revenue in budget documents. It captures proceeds from asset sales, realized valuation gains from holdings of foreign currency deposits, and other items which are not classified as revenue according to the IMF’s Government Finance Statistics Manual 2010.

    3/ Figure for 2025 is as of April 16, 2025.

    4/ The ratio is calculated by dividing the stock as March 31 by nominal GDP for the fiscal year.
                                           

    [1] Under Article IV of the IMF’s Articles of Agreement, the IMF holds bilateral discussions with members, usually every year. A staff team visits the country, collects economic and financial information, and discusses with officials the country’s economic developments and policies. On return to headquarters, the staff prepares a report, which forms the basis for discussion by the Executive Board.

    [2] Under the IMF’s Articles of Agreement, publication of documents that pertain to member countries is voluntary and requires the member consent. The staff report will be shortly published on the www.imf.org/Namibia page.

    [3] At the conclusion of the discussion, the Managing Director, as Chair of the Board, summarizes the views of Executive Directors, and this summary is transmitted to the country’s authorities. An explanation of any qualifiers used in summings up can be found here: http://www.IMF.org/external/np/sec/misc/qualifiers.htm.

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Kwabena Akuamoah-Boateng

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

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/06/13/pr-25198-namibia-imf-executive-board-concludes-2025-art-iv-consult

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Murder investigation launched after fatal stabbing in Hackney

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A murder investigation has been launched following the death of a woman at an address in Dumont Road, Hackney.

    On Tuesday, 17 June at 04:57hrs officers were called to reports of a gas explosion with a person trapped inside an address.

    Officers attended alongside the London Ambulance Service and the London Fire Brigade.

    A woman aged 46 was found inside the property with stab wounds. Despite the efforts of paramedics, she was sadly declared dead at the scene.

    A 44-year-old man was arrested at the address on suspicion of murder. He was taken to hospital with slash wounds where he currently remains. His condition is not life-changing or life-threatening.

    Two children ages 9 and 7 have also been taken to hospital as a precaution but are not believed to have been inside the property at the time of the gas explosion.

    Local road closures are in place while enquiries continue. There are also additional officers on patrol in the local area.

    Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call police on 101 quoting CAD 926/17June or to remain anonymous call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: EngageLab Empowers Tea Beverage Brand Global Expansion with Customer Engagement Solution

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, June 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — EngageLab, a leading omni-channel customer engagement platform provider, is proud to announce its successful partnership with a prominent Chinese tea beverage brand, supporting the company’s global expansion through EngageLab’s high-delivery rate AppPush notification capabilities. This Chinese new tea beverage brand has recently achieved a significant breakthrough in overseas markets by presenting Eastern tea culture through a modern lens. Built on a foundation of premium original leaf tea, the brand has strategically expanded across global markets through carefully tailored localization strategies. The company has successfully established thousands of stores across more than 100 countries and regions, positioning itself as a leading Chinese brand in the fresh-made tea beverage sector throughout Southeast Asia, North America, and other key markets worldwide.

    With rapid business growth and global expansion, the brand encountered challenges in its overseas notification services, such as unstable channel quality and unreliable message delivery. These issues impacted user experience and the efficiency of global operations.

    To address these challenges, the brand partnered with EngageLab, adopting its AppPush solution to comprehensively optimize overseas messaging services and achieve three major improvements:

    • Superior Delivery Capabilities Supporting Global Expansion
      As the brand expanded to over 100 countries, especially in emerging markets like Southeast Asia, complex network environments posed challenges to efficient communication. EngageLab AppPush integrated international mainstream system channels such as FCM and APNS, along with major smartphone manufacturer push channels including Xiaomi, Huawei, OPPO, vivo, and self-built enhanced channels. This improved message delivery rates by approximately 40%, providing robust technical support for global operations.
    • Intelligent Cross-Regional Push Notifications Enabling Localized Operations
      Operating across diverse countries and regions, the brand faced varying user needs and operational strategies. EngageLab AppPush’s dynamic AppKey switching function brought tremendous convenience. When users switch countries within the app, the SDK can apply corresponding country/regional SDK configurations through simple API calls. This enables the brand to flexibly develop and implement independent push strategies, user behavior tracking, and marketing campaigns for different markets, without the need to develop and maintain multiple app versions, significantly reducing development and maintenance costs and enhancing regional market responsiveness.
    • Global Multi-Data Center Layout Ensuring Compliant Operations
      In a global environment where data sovereignty and privacy protection are highly valued, compliant handling of user data is crucial for international enterprises. EngageLab has deployed distributed data centers in multiple strategic locations worldwide (including Singapore, Virginia USA, Frankfurt Germany, Hong Kong China, etc.), providing robust localized data compliance solutions. The brand can intelligently select the most appropriate data storage and processing nodes based on users’ regions, strictly adhering to local privacy regulatory requirements.

    About EngageLab
    EngageLab is a world-leading AI-powered omnichannel customer engagement solution provider, unites technology and versatility to offer seamless customer interactions across every channel, including Email, AppPush, WebPush, OTP, SMS and WhatsApp Business. It empowers businesses to build lasting relationships and achieve higher conversions and retention. With a strong focus on innovation and performance, EngageLab supports businesses in over 220 countries and regions, delivering more than 1 million messages every second across various channels.

    For more information about EngageLab and its suite of solutions, visit www.engagelab.com.

    For Media Inquiries:
    Contact: marketing@engagelab.com
    Website: www.engagelab.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: EngageLab Empowers Tea Beverage Brand Global Expansion with Customer Engagement Solution

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, June 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — EngageLab, a leading omni-channel customer engagement platform provider, is proud to announce its successful partnership with a prominent Chinese tea beverage brand, supporting the company’s global expansion through EngageLab’s high-delivery rate AppPush notification capabilities. This Chinese new tea beverage brand has recently achieved a significant breakthrough in overseas markets by presenting Eastern tea culture through a modern lens. Built on a foundation of premium original leaf tea, the brand has strategically expanded across global markets through carefully tailored localization strategies. The company has successfully established thousands of stores across more than 100 countries and regions, positioning itself as a leading Chinese brand in the fresh-made tea beverage sector throughout Southeast Asia, North America, and other key markets worldwide.

    With rapid business growth and global expansion, the brand encountered challenges in its overseas notification services, such as unstable channel quality and unreliable message delivery. These issues impacted user experience and the efficiency of global operations.

    To address these challenges, the brand partnered with EngageLab, adopting its AppPush solution to comprehensively optimize overseas messaging services and achieve three major improvements:

    • Superior Delivery Capabilities Supporting Global Expansion
      As the brand expanded to over 100 countries, especially in emerging markets like Southeast Asia, complex network environments posed challenges to efficient communication. EngageLab AppPush integrated international mainstream system channels such as FCM and APNS, along with major smartphone manufacturer push channels including Xiaomi, Huawei, OPPO, vivo, and self-built enhanced channels. This improved message delivery rates by approximately 40%, providing robust technical support for global operations.
    • Intelligent Cross-Regional Push Notifications Enabling Localized Operations
      Operating across diverse countries and regions, the brand faced varying user needs and operational strategies. EngageLab AppPush’s dynamic AppKey switching function brought tremendous convenience. When users switch countries within the app, the SDK can apply corresponding country/regional SDK configurations through simple API calls. This enables the brand to flexibly develop and implement independent push strategies, user behavior tracking, and marketing campaigns for different markets, without the need to develop and maintain multiple app versions, significantly reducing development and maintenance costs and enhancing regional market responsiveness.
    • Global Multi-Data Center Layout Ensuring Compliant Operations
      In a global environment where data sovereignty and privacy protection are highly valued, compliant handling of user data is crucial for international enterprises. EngageLab has deployed distributed data centers in multiple strategic locations worldwide (including Singapore, Virginia USA, Frankfurt Germany, Hong Kong China, etc.), providing robust localized data compliance solutions. The brand can intelligently select the most appropriate data storage and processing nodes based on users’ regions, strictly adhering to local privacy regulatory requirements.

    About EngageLab
    EngageLab is a world-leading AI-powered omnichannel customer engagement solution provider, unites technology and versatility to offer seamless customer interactions across every channel, including Email, AppPush, WebPush, OTP, SMS and WhatsApp Business. It empowers businesses to build lasting relationships and achieve higher conversions and retention. With a strong focus on innovation and performance, EngageLab supports businesses in over 220 countries and regions, delivering more than 1 million messages every second across various channels.

    For more information about EngageLab and its suite of solutions, visit www.engagelab.com.

    For Media Inquiries:
    Contact: marketing@engagelab.com
    Website: www.engagelab.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Aurora Mobile’s EngageLab Empowers Tea Beverage Brand Global Expansion with Customer Engagement Solution

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SHENZHEN, China, June 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Aurora Mobile Limited (NASDAQ: JG) (“Aurora Mobile” or the “Company”), a leading provider of customer engagement and marketing technology services in China, today announced that its subsidiary EngageLab, a leading omni-channel customer engagement platform provider, has partnered with a prominent Chinese tea beverage brand. The partnership will support the brand’s global expansion by leveraging EngageLab’s high-delivery rate AppPush notification capabilities. This Chinese new tea beverage brand has recently achieved a significant breakthrough in overseas markets by presenting Eastern tea culture through a modern lens. Built on a foundation of premium original leaf tea, the brand has strategically expanded across global markets through carefully tailored localization strategies. It has successfully established thousands of stores across more than 100 countries and regions, positioning itself as a leading Chinese brand in the fresh-made tea beverage sector throughout Southeast Asia, North America, and other key markets worldwide.

    With rapid business growth and global expansion, the brand encountered challenges in its overseas notification services, such as unstable channel quality and unreliable message delivery. These issues impacted user experience and the efficiency of global operations.

    To address these challenges, the brand partnered with EngageLab, adopting its AppPush solution to comprehensively optimize overseas messaging services and achieve three major improvements:

    • Superior Delivery Capabilities Supporting Global Expansion

    As the brand expanded to over 100 countries, especially in emerging markets like Southeast Asia, complex network environments posed challenges to efficient communication. EngageLab AppPush integrated international mainstream system channels such as FCM and APNS, along with major smartphone manufacturer push channels including Xiaomi, Huawei, OPPO, vivo, and self-built enhanced channels. This improved message delivery rates by approximately 40%, providing robust technical support for global operations.

    • Intelligent Cross-Regional Push Notifications Enabling Localized Operations

    Operating across diverse countries and regions, the brand faced varying user needs and operational strategies. EngageLab AppPush’s dynamic AppKey switching function brought tremendous convenience. When users switch countries within the app, the SDK can apply corresponding country/regional SDK configurations through simple API calls. This enables the brand to flexibly develop and implement independent push strategies, user behavior tracking, and marketing campaigns for different markets, without the need to develop and maintain multiple app versions, significantly reducing development and maintenance costs and enhancing regional market responsiveness.

    • Global Multi-Data Center Layout Ensuring Compliant Operations

    In a global environment where data sovereignty and privacy protection are highly valued, compliant handling of user data is crucial for international enterprises. EngageLab has deployed distributed data centers in multiple strategic locations worldwide (including Singapore, Virginia USA, Frankfurt Germany, Hong Kong China, etc.), providing robust localized data compliance solutions. The brand can intelligently select the most appropriate data storage and processing nodes based on users’ regions, strictly adhering to local privacy regulatory requirements.

    About EngageLab
    EngageLab is a world-leading AI-powered omnichannel customer engagement solution provider, unites technology and versatility to offer seamless customer interactions across every channel, including Email, AppPush, WebPush, OTP, SMS and WhatsApp Business. It empowers businesses to build lasting relationships and achieve higher conversions and retention. With a strong focus on innovation and performance, EngageLab supports businesses in over 220 countries and regions, delivering more than 1 million messages every second across various channels.
    For more information about EngageLab and its suite of solutions, visit www.engagelab.com.

    About Aurora Mobile Limited
    Founded in 2011, Aurora Mobile (NASDAQ: JG) is a leading provider of customer engagement and marketing technology services in China. Since its inception, Aurora Mobile has focused on providing stable and efficient messaging services to enterprises and has grown to be a leading mobile messaging service provider with its first-mover advantage. With the increasing demand for customer reach and marketing growth, Aurora Mobile has developed forward-looking solutions such as Cloud Messaging and Cloud Marketing to help enterprises achieve omnichannel customer reach and interaction, as well as artificial intelligence and big data-driven marketing technology solutions to help enterprises’ digital transformation.
    For more information, please visit https://ir.jiguang.cn/.

    Safe Harbor Statement
    This announcement contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” “confident” and similar statements. Among other things, the Business Outlook and quotations from management in this announcement, as well as Aurora Mobile’s strategic and operational plans, contain forward-looking statements. Aurora Mobile may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its reports to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, in its annual report to shareholders, in press releases and other written materials and in oral statements made by its officers, directors or employees to third parties. Statements that are not historical facts, including but not limited to statements about Aurora Mobile’s beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement, including but not limited to the following: Aurora Mobile’s strategies; Aurora Mobile’s future business development, financial condition and results of operations; Aurora Mobile’s ability to attract and retain customers; its ability to develop and effectively market data solutions, and penetrate the existing market for developer services; its ability to transition to the new advertising-driven SAAS business model; its ability to maintain or enhance its brand; the competition with current or future competitors; its ability to continue to gain access to mobile data in the future; the laws and regulations relating to data privacy and protection; general economic and business conditions globally and in China and assumptions underlying or related to any of the foregoing. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. All information provided in this press release and in the attachments is as of the date of the press release, and Aurora Mobile undertakes no duty to update such information, except as required under applicable law.

    For more information, please contact:
    Aurora Mobile Limited
    E-mail: ir@jiguang.cn

    Christensen
    In China
    Ms. Xiaoyan Su
    Phone: +86-10-5900-1548
    E-mail: Xiaoyan.Su@christensencomms.com

    In US
    Ms. Linda Bergkamp
    Phone: +1-480-614-3004
    Email: linda.bergkamp@christensencomms.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI China: SCIO organizes media trip to Jiangsu and Zhejiang

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

    SCIO organizes media trip to Jiangsu and Zhejiang

    China SCIO | June 17, 2025

    Since May, the State Council Information Office has organized a series of media trips aimed at introducing how different regions across China are advancing high-quality development and fulfilling the goals set out in the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025).

    The second leg of the program was held from June 9 to 13, during which journalists from the United States, the United Kingdom, Spain, the Netherlands, Singapore, Indonesia, Turkey, South Korea, Japan, Brazil, and other countries visited Jiangsu and Zhejiang provinces. They focused on topics such as innovation-driven development, green development, and how major economic provinces are playing a leading role in national growth.

    On June 9, 2025, the State Council Information Office holds a press briefing in Nanjing, Jiangsu province, about the province’s progress in innovation-driven development. [Photo by Luan Haijun/China SCIO]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: With the support of Rosneft, scientists are conducting research on forest reindeer in the Tyumen region

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Rosneft – Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    With the support of RN-Uvatneftegaz (part of the oil production complex of NK Rosneft), scientists from the Tobolsk Scientific Station of the Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences conducted large-scale monitoring of the territories of the Kunyak Nature Reserve during the implementation of a project to study forest reindeer.

    Ecologists were able to obtain over 100 thousand images as a result of aerial monitoring, which covered an area of almost 60 thousand hectares. The array of unique data will form the basis for assessing the population size of the forest reindeer, which is listed in the Red Book of the Tyumen Region. At the next stage of the project, scientists plan to develop a set of measures to protect the habitat and increase the population size of the rare species.

    The RN-Uvatneftegaz program for the study and conservation of forest reindeer is of great practical importance for the Tyumen region – research has not been conducted in the region for more than 20 years, and there is currently no current information on the state of the population. Earlier, during the scientific project, scientists were able to confirm the fact of the deer’s permanent habitation on the territory of the reserve.

    Over the past five years, with grant support from RN-Uvatneftegaz, scientists have implemented several research projects of practical importance for preserving the biodiversity of the Tyumen region, including programs to assess the status of populations of rare and protected species of birds and animals.

    Responsible attitude to the environment is an integral part of the corporate culture and one of the key principles of the activities of Rosneft and its subsidiaries. RN-Uvatneftegaz is implementing a comprehensive program for the study and conservation of natural resources in the Uvatsky District, including the use of advanced technological solutions.

    Reference:

    RN-Uvatneftegaz LLC, a subsidiary of Rosneft Oil Company, is conducting exploration and development of a group of fields located in the Uvatsky District of the Tyumen Region and the Khanty-Mansiysk Autonomous Okrug-Yugra. The Uvatsky project includes 19 licensed areas with a total area of over 25 thousand square kilometers.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft June 17, 2025

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The prospects for urban development were discussed at the A.A. Vysokovsky Forum at the National Research University Higher School of Economics

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: State University Higher School of Economics – State University Higher School of Economics –

    The annual A.A. Vysokovsky Forum, organized by the Faculty of Urban and Regional Development, was held at the National Research University Higher School of Economics. Should development projects be adjusted to the interests of residents, will New Moscow become a new point of attraction, and what will the opening of the A101 Group basic department give to HSE? All this was discussed by officials, business representatives, teachers and experts.

    © Higher School of Economics

    As the head of the Higher School of Urban Studies named after A.A. Vysokovsky, Ruslan Goncharov, noted at the beginning of the presentation of the basic department of the A101 Group, education in urban studies at the HSE can be obtained within the framework of a bachelor’s degree, a master’s degree, a postgraduate degree, and additional professional education. Since the establishment of the school in 2011, more than 600 graduates have completed the educational programs, more than 80% of whom work in their specialty.

    “Very often, many educational platforms discuss the gap in competencies, the discrepancy between graduates and the demands of the labor market, and HSE is doing everything it can to overcome this gap. The faculty organizes workshops and summer schools with industry partners for its students, invites expert practitioners to teach, launches partner courses and educational projects with leading industry organizations. The opening of the Basic Department of the A101 company will help HSE prepare highly qualified personnel in the field of development. This will allow, among other things, “to conduct classes on current issues of integrated urban development, regularly organize expert and public events with industry representatives, and conduct interdisciplinary research in the field of integrated urban development in general and New Moscow in particular. As part of practical classes in the faculty’s educational programs, specific cases from the A101 Group portfolio will be analyzed,” noted Ruslan Goncharov.

    Ruslan Goncharov expects successful synergy with the new partner of the HSE. One of the areas of work of the new department will be the development of the Urban School program for schoolchildren. As the scientific director of the basic department “A101” Maxim Gurvich noted: “Immersing children in the urban agenda from school is the most correct decision.”

    “We are building a city where there are all the opportunities for people to communicate, spend time together, play sports or hobbies, and unite by interests. This creates the very high-quality environment that leads to the growth of social ties. A high-quality environment is created not only by the developer, but also by the people themselves, without them there will be no city. And our task is to help them spend more time with their neighbors, attend cultural and educational events, play sports together – and all this close to their home. This is why we are actively working with district communities. Doing sociology, we found out that a district becomes a real home when you do not just walk from the metro to your apartment, but when you do something together with those who live next to you. And the potential of these connections is huge,” said Dmitry Tsvetov.

    Mikhail Blinkin, the academic director of the Faculty of Urban and Regional Development at the National Research University Higher School of Economics, who was present at the event, asked whether residents of New Moscow would have to sit in traffic jams to get to work in Moscow. According to Dmitry Tsvetov, 30% of residents already work where they live. But the company has ambitious plans here too. “We want there to be more jobs than residents,” Dmitry Tsvetov sets his goal. In particular, the construction of business centers in New Moscow will contribute to this.

    The topic of local community development was continued by Elena Bulin-Sokolova, Doctor of Pedagogical Sciences, Head of the Educational Bureau “A101 Lerniti”: “We build cities in which people want to live, including ourselves. A city is not only comfortable modern housing, it is also a social infrastructure – spaces and events in which you can get involved, finding something to your liking. And a city is also people,” Elena noted.

    “A101 Lernity” creates spaces for family centers and neighborhood clubs, open workshops and public lounges, street cinemas and sports grounds, initiating programs, projects and various events, involving residents themselves and local businesses in their organization, whether it is the revival of the culture of yard games or holding children’s maker summer programs; engineering hackathons for or career guidance internships for teenagers, pedagogical lectures or culinary parties, inter-district sports competitions or huge good-neighborly festivals for everyone – all this helps residents get to know the territory and each other, unites them around interesting things, contributes to the formation of communities.

    As Kirill Puzanov, associate professor at the Higher School of Urban Studies, noted: “A good city is a city that provides a minimum of necessary and a maximum of possible options for its use. Space should provide various options for use at different times and for different categories of citizens,” he is convinced.

    Historian and local historian Denis Romodin, in turn, said that tourism outside the city is currently developing at a rapid pace. In many cities in the Moscow region, new communities have emerged that actively conduct excursions for Muscovites, and they are conducted by young 20-year-olds. “And this is, in general, a very good idea, because it excites such local patriotism, explaining why my region is unique,” says Denis Romodin. At the same time, according to him, such processes are happening not only in historically interesting areas. Such communities interested in their city also exist in New Moscow – for example, in Troitsk.

    Dean of the Faculty of Urban and Regional Development at the National Research University Higher School of Economics Evgeny Mikhaylenko emphasized the importance of comprehensive improvement of urban infrastructure and creation of comfortable living conditions on the sidelines of the event. This contributes to both social and economic development of new districts, and also makes them more unique. “The rejection of uniform standards is the main task and guideline of modern urban policy aimed at diversity of the urban environment. This approach allows each district to acquire its own unique individuality, which makes it especially valuable and beloved by residents. Moreover, the uniqueness of new districts attracts the attention of not only local residents, but also neighboring territories, contributing to the formation of additional urban centers,” he explained.

    During the discussions within the forum, experts also spoke about what changes city residents can expect in terms of transport. Thus, according to Olga Morozova, Director of Strategic Projects of the Department of Transport and Development of Road Transport Infrastructure of the City of Moscow, the first driverless tram has already successfully started operating in Moscow. It has already covered more than 5 thousand km without a single traffic violation. Last year, the next stage of this test began – the launch of an unmanned tram with passengers under the control of a test driver. Already in the fall of 2025, it is planned to launch a completely unmanned tram for regular trips along the route with passengers.

    Continuing the discussion about the transport of the future, Evgeny Mikhailenko shared a forecast for the emergence of new types of real estate and infrastructure related to modern means of mobility, for example, transport hubs for drones, which will contribute to the multifunctionality of urban spaces and the development of a “smart city” that adapts to the demands of the time.

    Another significant event of the Forum was the awarding of Professor of the Faculty of Urban and Regional Development of the National Research University Higher School of Economics Sergey Sivaev with the departmental award of the Ministry of Construction and Housing and Public Utilities of the Russian Federation, the medal “For Impeccable Labor and Diligence” of the 3rd degree.

    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 Europe: Kazakhstan’s Participation in OCTOPUS 2025 Strengthens OSCE-Supported International Efforts to Combat Cybercrime

    Source: Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe – OSCE

    Headline: Kazakhstan’s Participation in OCTOPUS 2025 Strengthens OSCE-Supported International Efforts to Combat Cybercrime

    The delegation of Kazakhstan at the OCTOPUS 2025 held from June 4 to 6, 2025 in Strasbourg (OSCE) Photo details

    From June 4 to 6 2025, a delegation from Kazakhstan participated in the international conference “OCTOPUS 2025 – Conference on Countering Cybercrime”, hosted by the Council of Europe in Strasbourg, France. The participation of the delegation was facilitated by the OSCE Programme Office in Astana within the framework of the extra-budgetary project “Supporting the Republic of Kazakhstan in the Development of Effective Policies to Counter Cybercrimes (Phase I)”, implemented by the Office in co-operation with the Ministry of Interior of Kazakhstan, and under the co-ordination of the Presidential Administration of Kazakhstan.
    The conference convened cybercrime and law enforcement experts from over 100 countries, serving as a premier global forum for addressing evolving cyber threats, fostering international collaboration, and sharing innovative approaches and policy practices.  The delegation from Kazakhstan comprised representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Financial Monitoring Agency, and the Prosecutor General’s Office, as well as OSCE project staff, who actively contributed to plenary discussions, thematic workshops, and bilateral consultations.
    Kazakhstan’s participation advanced the objectives of the OSCE-supported project by enabling national stakeholders to tap into global expertise, establish institutional partnerships, and explore innovative strategies for combating cybercrime. The knowledge and experience gained at the conference will contribute to the formulation of effective national policies and enhance the capacity of Kazakhstan’s law enforcement authorities to respond to complex cyber threats – particularly in areas such as cryptocurrency-related crime, AI-driven cybercriminal activities, and international legal co-operation on electronic evidence.
    Key topics of the conference included the malicious use of artificial intelligence, cyber threats to democratic institutions, and emerging financial fraud schemes such as “pig-butchering” scams. Participants also examined the role of the Second Additional Protocol to the Convention on Cybercrime in facilitating cross-border investigations and improving the admissibility of electronic evidence.
    Kazakhstan’s active engagement in OCTOPUS 2025 underscores its growing commitment to contributing to global efforts against cybercrime. It also reflects the tangible progress of the OSCE-supported project in promoting international collaboration, strengthening national capacities, and reinforcing Kazakhstan’s integration into the global cybercrime response community.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – European space act – 17-06-2025

    Source: European Parliament 2

    ISSUES AT STAKE • The combined global revenues of Earth observation and positioning-navigation-timing solutions revenues are expected to double between 2023 and 2035, making space services one of the fastest growing economic sectors. According to the European Commission, around 10 % of EU GDP is enabled by satellite signals. However, space congestion hampers further development. • The probability of a new global ‘space race’ led the European Council to identify space as a sensitive sector where strategic EU dependencies need to be reduced. A legislative initiative on an EU space law is planned in the European Commission’s 2025 work programme (Q2). • While there is a broad consensus on the relevance of collective EU space assets and services for competitiveness and strategic autonomy, Member States hold different views on the most appropriate legal basis and legislative format for EU action. • Most stakeholders in the EU are supportive of an EU space act that would address the safety, security and sustainability of space operations and facilitate the creation of a single market for space services, provided it does not hamper the competitiveness of EU space actors by creating additional burdens, and would apply to any entity delivering space services in the EU. • This situation presents a strategic opportunity for the European Parliament to be proactive and use its tools to shape the proposal (see below), aiming to complement the act with the required financing for space investment in the next EU multiannual financial framework.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UN Human Rights Council 59: UK Statement on the Fact-Finding Mission on the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    UN Human Rights Council 59: UK Statement on the Fact-Finding Mission on the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo

    Statement for the Enhanced Interactive Dialogue on the Oral Update of the FFM on the eastern DRC. Delivered by the UK’s Permanent Representative to the WTO and UN, Simon Manley.

    Thank you, Mr Vice President.

    Let me thank the High Commissioner and the Fact-Finding Mission for their important, indeed chilling, update on the situation in eastern DRC.

    The UK is deeply concerned by the devastating accounts of human rights abuses and violations perpetrated by all parties to the conflict.

    The reported extrajudicial killings, arbitrary detention, sexual violence and forced recruitment of children are simply horrendous.  As are accounts of Rwandan Defence Forces and M23 entrenching administrative control through violence, displacing  civilians, targeting civil society, and  dismantling  legal and civil institutions.

    We urge all parties to protect human rights, respect international humanitarian law and engage meaningfully with the peace processes.

    We also reiterate our call on the DRC to reconsider its decision to lift the moratorium on the death penalty.

    Mr Vice President, we remain convinced that this Council must use all the mechanisms available to investigate reports of human rights violations and abuses in the eastern DRC, identify the perpetrators and end impunity once and for all.

    Mr Vice President, I listened carefully to what the High Commissioner said about the challenges in establishing the independent Commission of Inquiry to continue the Fact-Finding Mission’s important work, but I do think we should try harder to fulfil this Council’s mandate.

    Thank you.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Polytechnic University Leads in Number of Medals at the “I Am a Professional” Olympiad

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    The results of the VIII season of the All-Russian student Olympiad “I am a professional” of the presidential platform have been summed up “Russia is a country of opportunity”. St. Petersburg entered the top 3 regions in terms of the number of diploma winners. Students of Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University won 9 medals: 4 gold, 2 silver and 3 bronze. All-Russian Student Olympiad “I am a professional” is being implemented within the framework of the federal project “Russia – the Country of Opportunities” of the national project “Youth and Children” with the support of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of Russia.

    In the 8th season, the Olympiad “I am a professional” united 185,610 students from 89 regions of Russia, who competed in 71 areas. Polytechnic organized two of them: “Mechanical engineering” and “Hotel business”.

    High results of participation in the Olympiad “I am a professional” – an indicator that competitive personnel are trained in the universities of St. Petersburg. Year after year, students demonstrate an increasingly high level of training. In the VIII season, participants received 708 diplomas of the Olympiad “I am a professional”, and the best results were demonstrated by students of St. Petersburg State University, National Research University ITMO and Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, – noted the head of the Olympiad “I am a professional” Valeria Kasamara.

    Olympiad diploma winners will be able to complete internships at major companies and take advantage of benefits when entering the next level of education, and medalists will receive cash prizes of up to 300 thousand rubles.

    A distinctive feature of the Olympiad is the fact that students can participate in any direction, regardless of their educational profile. This allows them to take a different look at their career track, deepen their knowledge, and gain new experience. This meets the demand from the industry for well-trained multidisciplinary specialists ready to solve the most complex problems. We involved colleagues from the industry in compiling practice-oriented tasks. We are confident that this allowed the participants to get to know their future profession better, – noted Vitaly Drobchik, Advisor to the Rector’s Office of SPbPU and organizer of the Olympiad at the Polytechnic University.

    It should be noted that Polytechnic students won medals in such areas as mechanical engineering, hotel business, robotics, oil and gas, thermal power engineering and heat engineering, electric power engineering, and construction.

    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 –