NewzIntel.com

Category: Europe

  • MIL-OSI USA: Researchers and Industry Flock to UConn to Talk Poultry Innovations and Impacts

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    UConn’s College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources (CAHNR) welcomed fellow researchers and poultry industry representatives from across the US and the world to the Storrs campus to continue their interdependent work on the Sustainable Agricultural Systems (SAS) Poultry Project. 

    In 2020, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture (USDA-NIFA) awarded Kumar Venkitanarayanan, CAHNR senior associate dean of research and graduate education and professor of animal science, a $10 million grant in 2020 to lead the initiative. 

    The group of attendees came from around the world to join the meeting of the Sustainable Agricultural Systems (SAS) Poultry Project (Jason Sheldon/UConn Photo)

    “This group has made considerable progress on each component of our project – bird health, human health, and the environmental impact of the poultry industry,” says Venkitanarayanan. “This has been a collective effort, and being able to meet to continue discussing and sharing ideas keeps our work moving forward.” 

    At the two-day meeting, held at the Innovation Partnership Building, the multi-institutional group and its project teams discussed their on-going efforts to enhance broiler sustainability without antibiotics and ensure safe approaches to improve chicken, human, and environmental health. The meeting comes as the grant enters its final year and the group begins assessing the scope and breadth of the innovations and impacts made over the last five years. 

    Indu Upadhyaya, associate extension food safety education speaks at a meeting of the Sustainable Agricultural Systems (SAS) Poultry Project (Jason Sheldon/UConn Photo)
    Lively discussion at a meeting of the Sustainable Agricultural Systems (SAS) Poultry Project (Jason Sheldon/UConn Photo)

    The group has made a number of technological advancements to lower heat stress, improve bird welfare, generate energy from poultry litter, and reduce disease, including a UConn-patented probiotic spray method that improves the hatchability and the health of chicks. 

    Additionally, the project has also developed classes and outreach programs to train producers and the next generation of poultry farmers, including a class right here at UConn. 

    Their efforts to ensure the long-term viability, safety, and public trust in antibiotic-restricted poultry farming took a global perspective at the meeting. International speakers discussed poultry production practices around the world, including Mexico, Southeastern Europe, the Middle East, the Indian subcontinent, and Africa. 

    The meeting also featured an industry panel Q&A and a poster session. 

    “We approach our work from a One Health perspective, acknowledging the connection between the health of people, animals, and our environment,” says Venkitanarayanan. “This work is critically important for our society and CAHNR is a unique leader in this type of interdisciplinary research.” 

    Other institutions involved in this project are Appalachian State University, University of Arkansas, University of Georgia, Auburn University, Kansas State University, University of Maryland, University of Minnesota, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, North Carolina State University, Pennsylvania State University, Prairie View Agricultural and Mechanical University, and the USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS) of Arkansas, Maryland, and Mississippi. 

    This research is supported by USDA NIFA award number 2020-69012-31823. 

    This work relates to CAHNR’s Strategic Vision area focused on Ensuring a Vibrant and Sustainable Agricultural Industry and Food Supply.

    Follow UConn CAHNR on social media

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Get on your bike and celebrate cycling on free family ride around city

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    The Wolverhampton Kidical Mass 2025 event is on Saturday 14 June and the ride sets off from East Park, where there will also be bike skills, learner riding sessions, family entertainment and refreshments throughout the day.

    Riders will pedal to Molineux Stadium and back to the park in Hickman Avenue along public roads and cycle lanes developed by City of Wolverhampton Council.

    Mayor of the West Midlands Richard Parker is expected be in attendance to set the cyclists off shorty after midday, following short speeches.

    He will be joined by Wolverhampton cycling legend and the city’s cycling ambassador Hugh Porter MBE. Hugh is a Commonwealth Games gold medallist and former world champion.

    There will be plenty going on in the park throughout the day from 11am to 3pm including music, food and drink stalls and cycle themed activities.

    The event has been organised by No Limits to Health CIC working with City of Wolverhampton Council, West Midlands Combined Authority and Transport for West Midlands and is supported by charity Cycling UK, British Cycling and Sustrans among others. It follows the successful inaugural Wolverhampton Kidical Mass event held last year.

    Participants should bring their own roadworthy bikes to take part in the ride with everyone advised to wear a helmet.

    Bike marshals will accompany riders along the 4.5 mile route, but younger children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Children remaining in the park must also be accompanied by an adult.

    Councillor Qaiser Azeem, Cabinet Member for Transport at City of Wolverhampton Council, said: “This is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate safe, family friendly cycling and for children to practise riding on public roads and cycle lanes, taking advantage of visibility and safety in numbers.

    “Those taking part will follow a route that will take in designated cycle routes developed by City of Wolverhampton Council as part of our commitment to encouraging active travel and healthy lifestyles, reducing traffic congestion and improving air quality.

    “I hope as many people as possible get involved and that the sun comes out on the day.”

    Hugh Porter MBE said: “As a former world champion and cycling ambassador for the city it is music to my ears to see people riding bikes.

    “I wish the Kidical Mass family bike ride every success on the day, and I hope it attracts lots of youngsters to pedal around the route.”

    Sam Henry, founder of No Limits to Health, said: “The city is being made safe for cycling with the help of the council. Kidical Mass is a great way to encourage as many people as possible to take advantage of this and embark on a journey to improve their physical and mental health and wellbeing.”

    Sign up here for free at Kidical Mass Wolverhampton 2025.

    The event coincides with both National Bike Week (9 to 15 June) and the Great Big Green Week (7 to 15 June).

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Scientific Regiment. David Goldgor – architect and sapper

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering –

    David Goldgor

    A graduate of the Leningrad Institute of Municipal Construction Engineers (LIICS), a teacher at the Leningrad Civil Engineering Institute (both now SPbGASU), Soviet architect, graphic artist David Semenovich Goldgor (1912–1982) wrote his name into the history of the city on the Neva for centuries: many of the objects he took part in designing decorate Petersburg to this day. But the Nevsky Cranes Memorial, dedicated to the memory of those who died during the Great Patriotic War, other monuments to heroes, and the Victory Arch for him, a front-line soldier, took a special place in his professional biography, since the architect personally experienced all the hardships of the harsh military years.

    In 1934, David Goldgor graduated from LIIKS. The young architect began his career in Studio No. 5 of the Lenproekt Institute. He worked under the supervision of Evgeny Levinson and Igor Fomin, already well-known architects at that time. The first taught at our university, and a few years later became a corresponding member of the USSR Academy of Architecture, a doctor of architecture, and a professor. The second would soon head the architectural design department at LIIKS, and in 1951 he would take the position of deputy chief architect of Leningrad. They would assemble a strong team of young Leningrad architects, among whom David Goldgor would become one of the most talented. He would immediately be involved in working on building projects for the Institute of Experimental Medicine. In those years, the architect would also prove himself as a graphic artist.

    When the war began, David Goldgor volunteered for the people’s militia and was sent to the first rifle regiment of the 2nd division as a sapper. He took part in combat operations in the Gatchina region. After the blockade was lifted, he worked on the restoration of Leningrad, and in peacetime he returned to his native workshop. Already in 1945, together with the architect Igor Fomin, he drew up a project for a temporary triumphal arch in Leningrad on Obukhovskoy Oborony Avenue near Spartak Garden, intended to welcome the victors.

    In 1953, he became the head of the workshop together with Evgeny Levinson, after whose death in 1968 he took full responsibility for the work of the workshop.

    David Goldgor always remained true to his work and created projects for residential buildings, public buildings, and memorials. Under his leadership, the area around Smolny was formed, and Kupchino was developed. In collaboration with other architects, he designed the Moscow Hotel and the automatic telephone exchange, which formed the space of Alexander Nevsky Square. Among the widely known objects is the ground pavilion of the Narvskaya metro station, opened in 1955.

    In the 1960s and 1970s, David Goldgaard combined his active professional work with teaching at the Department of Architectural Planning at LISI.

    Awarded the Medal “For the Defense of Leningrad”.

    Other materials of the project “Scientific Regiment”

    Our graduate built the Road of Life

    The pioneering work of architect Alexander Nikolsky

    A scientist who developed science in besieged LeningradFights of student Klinov

    Engineer of the 3rd Belorussian Front

    The path of a volunteer: from front-line roads to space developments

    Ivan Solomakhin: “The most memorable battle is for this Devil’s Height!”

    Fiery Dnieper of the Hero of the Soviet Union Alexander Prygunov

    Bringing Victory Closer

    Fyodor Komal’s Front: From the First Minutes of War to Victory

    Junior Political Instructor Boris Gubanov: “The shells whistled, and the earth flew up nearby”

    Viktor Kvyatkovsky – radio operator-intelligence officer of the Baltic Fleet

    How Chief Architect Nikolai Baranov “Hid” Leningrad from the Enemy

    Architect Nikolay Khomutetsky: Four years on the front lines

    Semyon Shifrin thwarted the Nazis’ plans to leave Leningrad without water

    LISI in the post-war years

    Nineteen-year-old machine gunner stormed Berlin

    Abdulla Mangushev: Four Years at the Front and a Life in Science

    The Zazersky architects built and defended the city on the Neva

    LISI graduate Mikhail Zherbin is a design engineer and composer

    He went from being a technical lieutenant to a galaxy of mathematicians

    Konstantin Sakhnovsky: from a cadet of the Russian Empire to an academician of the USSR

    Military architect of the front line of defense and engineering reconnaissance

    A world-renowned scientist, an outstanding engineer and a national champion

    An outstanding urban planner who lived and worked in besieged Leningrad

    Scientific Regiment. Projects of the architect Sergey Evdokimov: from defensive structures and city restoration to metro stations

    Volunteer Mikhail Laletin: “After the front – to university, and then, perhaps, to become an officer”

    Architect Alexander Sokolov preserved and restored cultural heritage

    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: Fusion Fuel Green PLC Announces Forthcoming Annual General Meeting

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DUBLIN, June 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — via IBN – Fusion Fuel Green PLC (Nasdaq: HTOO) (“Fusion Fuel” or the “Company”) today announced that it will hold its Annual General Meeting (“AGM”) on June 25, 2025, at 2:00 PM (Dublin time) at the offices of Arthur Cox LLP, Ten Earlsfort Terrace, Dublin 2, D02 T380, Ireland.

    Shareholders are encouraged to review the Notice of AGM, which has been furnished to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) with a Report on Form 6-K and mailed to all shareholders of record as of May 30, 2025. The Notice outlines six proposals submitted by the Board of Directors for shareholder approval.

    Among the items on the agenda is a proposal to authorize a reverse share split of the Company’s Class A Ordinary Shares at a ratio within a range of 4-to-1 and 40-to-1 to be determined by the Board. This measure is intended to regain compliance with The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC (“Nasdaq”) minimum bid price requirement of $1.00 per share.

    John-Paul Backwell, CEO of Fusion Fuel, commented: “Holding the AGM and obtaining shareholder approval of the proposed reverse share split will reaffirm to the market that Fusion Fuel is steadily progressing towards its goals of fully regaining compliance with Nasdaq listing requirements. With continued strong growth alongside promising strategic acquisition opportunities, we believe the Company is well on its way towards long-term sustainability and shareholder value.”

    Fusion Fuel remains committed to its strategy of sustainable growth and operational resilience and looks forward to engaging with shareholders at the upcoming AGM.

    About Fusion Fuel Green PLC

    Fusion Fuel Green PLC (NASDAQ: HTOO) is a growing energy company providing engineering, advisory, and fuel distribution solutions through its brands Al Shola Gas and BrightHy. The Company services clients across commercial, residential, and industrial sectors and is actively expanding into new verticals and geographies to support energy transition and infrastructure resilience.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, which statements involve substantial risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements generally relate to future events or the Company’s future financial or operating performance. In some cases, you can identify these statements because they contain words such as “may,” “will,” “believes,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “estimates,” “projects,” “intends,” “should,” “seeks,” “future,” “continue,” “plan,” “target,” “predict,” “potential,” or the negative of such terms, or other comparable terminology that concern the Company’s expectations, strategy, plans, or intentions. Forward-looking statements relating to expectations about future results or events are based upon information available to the Company as of today’s date and are not guarantees of the future performance of the Company, and actual results may vary materially from the results and expectations discussed. The Company’s expectations and beliefs regarding these matters may not materialize, and actual results in future periods are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected, including, without limitation, the risks and uncertainties described under Item 3. “Key Information – D. Risk Factors” and elsewhere in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the SEC on May 9, 2025 (the “Annual Report”), and other filings with the SEC. Should any of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should the underlying assumptions about the Company’s business and the commercial markets in which the Company operates prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described as anticipated, estimated or expected in the Annual Report. All subsequent written and oral forward-looking statements concerning the Company or other matters and attributable to the Company or any person acting on its behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements above. The Company does not undertake any obligation to publicly update any of these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that may arise after the date hereof, except as required by law.

    Investor Relations Contact:
    ir@fusion-fuel.eu
    www.fusion-fuel.eu

    Wire Service Contact:
    IBN
    Austin, Texas
    www.InvestorBrandNetwork.com
    512.354.7000 Office
    Editor@InvestorBrandNetwork.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Salsify Launches FeedbackIQ to Streamline GDSN with AI

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BOSTON, June 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Salsify, the Product Experience Management (PXM) platform empowering brand manufacturers, distributors, and retailers to win on the digital shelf, today announced a significant enhancement to its Global Data Synchronization Network (GDSN) product with the launch of FeedbackIQ. This new AI-powered capability interprets complex GDSN Confirmation of Information Consistency (CIC) feedback—automated messages retailers send to confirm or reject product data—helping users quickly pinpoint specific attributes that need attention and eliminating the manual troubleshooting that often delays products from reaching the market.

    “The GDSN can be difficult to manage,” said Danielle Mytrohovich, Product Experience Manager at KIND Snack Bars in a recent case study. “One error can cause an entire submission to fail. Salsify helps us ensure information accuracy before we submit to the GDSN, which is a gamechanger.” Since implementing Salsify, KIND has experienced a 10% sales lift, a +79% increase in average bullet point compliance, and a +33% increase in image compliance at one of their top retailer partners.

    Today’s announcement caps a steady stream of recent investments for Salsify’s global GDSN customers, including expanding support for GDSN local validation rules and attributes to Spain, Poland, Italy, Greece, Czechia, Sweden, and Finland. Unlike fragmented legacy solutions, Salsify was designed from the ground up as a unified platform, combining PIM, GDSN, DAM, Syndication, and Analytics. This approach eliminates data silos, empowering customers to centrally govern all product content from one trusted source of truth, automatically transform it for each trading partner’s unique requirements, and efficiently manage information transfer to multiple recipients on a global scale.

    “For modern commerce, the importance of GDSN cannot be overstated – it’s fundamental to ensuring products reach consumers efficiently and with reliable information,” said Jens Weller, Director of Global GS1 at Salsify. “Manufacturers need to work faster and modernize their approach to managing data in this new, dynamic era of commerce. Interpreting CIC feedback is a perfect application for AI, enabling GDSN data stewards to embed AI directly into their toolset through FeedbackIQ.”

    For more information, GS1 Connect attendees can visit Salsify at Booth # 208 or go to salsify.com/product/gdsn.

    About Salsify

    Salsify helps thousands of brand manufacturers, distributors, and retailers in over 140 countries collaborate to make every product experience matter. The company’s Product Experience Management (PXM) platform enables organizations to centralize all of their product content, connect to the commerce ecosystem, and automate business processes in order to deliver the best possible product experiences across every selling destination.

    Learn how the world’s largest brands, including Mars, L’Oreal, The Coca-Cola Company, Bosch, and ASICS, as well as retailers and distributors, such as DoorDash, E.Leclerc, Carrefour, Metro, and Intermarché use Salsify every day to drive efficiency, power growth, and lead the digital shelf. For more information, please visit: www.salsify.com.

    Media contact:
    Carolyn Adams
    carolyn@bluerunpr.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: What if Alberta really did vote to separate?

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Stewart Prest, Lecturer, Political Science, University of British Columbia

    Alberta Premier Danielle Smith is using sovereignty sentiments in Alberta as a kind of implied threat to get a better deal for the province.

    In a letter to Mark Carney in the run-up to the recent first ministers conference in Saskatoon, Smith told the prime minister that failure to build additional pipelines for Alberta oil would “send an unwelcome signal to Albertans concerned about Ottawa’s commitment to national unity.”

    Accordingly, it’s worth asking: what would happen if Alberta did vote to leave?

    Two historical touch points are the 1995 sovereignty referendum in Québec and the Brexit vote in the United Kingdom in 2016. In different ways, both examples drive home one inevitable point: in the event of a vote to pursue sovereignty, the future of Alberta would have to be negotiated one painful and uncertain step at a time.

    International lawlessness

    Sovereignty is an assertion of independent governmental authority, notably including a monopoly over the legitimate use of force over a defined people and territory. Unlike provinces in a country like Canada, sovereign countries co-operate with each other if — and only if — it’s in their interests to do so.

    Some proponents of separatism have argued that an independent Alberta could rely on international law to secure continued access to tidewater through Canada. The idea seems to form the basis of Smith’s assertions that one nation cannot “landlock” another under international law. But that’s not the case.

    What’s more, international law — even if it does apply in theory — doesn’t always hold in practice. That’s because between countries, formal anarchy prevails: no one has the responsibility to enforce international law on their own. If one country breaks international law, it’s up to other countries to respond. If that doesn’t happen, then it just doesn’t happen.

    Simply put, if Alberta were to leave Canada, it would lose all enforceable rights and protections offered by the Canadian Constitution and enforced by the institutions and courts. In their place, Alberta would get exactly — and only — what it can bargain for.

    The Québec example

    The Québec independence saga has in many ways clarified and refined the path to potential secession for provinces in Canada, and hints at what can happen in the aftermath of a sovereignty referendum.

    In the wake of the near miss that was the 1995 referendum — when those wanting to remain in Canada defeated those who voted to separate with the narrowest of margins — Jean Chretien’s Liberal government took rapid steps to respond.

    Plan A focused on actions aimed at addressing Québec’s grievances, not unlike Carney’s quest for a national consensus to build an additional pipeline.

    Another course of action, known as Plan B, defined the path to secession.

    The federal government asked the Supreme Court of Canada for a clarification on the legality of sovereignty. It then passed the Clarity Act, which enshrined into law Ottawa’s understanding of the court’s answer. The reference and act both made clear that any secession attempt could be triggered only by a “clear majority” on a “clear question.”

    The act also illuminated the stakes of secession. The preamble of the legislation, for instance, spells out that provincial sovereignty would mean the end of guaranteed Canadian citizenship for departing provincial residents.

    The act also lays out some of the points to be negotiated in the event of secession, “including the division of assets and liabilities, any changes to the borders of the province, the rights, interests and territorial claims of the Aboriginal peoples of Canada, and the protection of minority rights.”

    Simply put, everything would be on the table if Albertans opted to separate.

    You Brexit, you bought it

    Brexit provides an example of just how painful that process can be. After voting to leave the European Union, the U.K. found itself bogged down in a difficult negotiation process that continues to this day.

    Political, economic and trade rights — even including the border between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland — have all been painfully reconstituted through complex negotiations. Despite the promises made by those who advocated in favour of Brexit, the U.K. will continue to pay in perpetuity for access to the limited EU services it still retains.

    The U.K. is dealing with these challenges even though it was already a sovereign state. Alberta is not. Everything between a sovereign Alberta and its neighbours would be subject to difficult negotiations, both in the initial days of an independent Albertan state and any subsequent discussions.

    Alberta would have little leverage

    Once independent, Alberta would be a landlocked, oil-exporting nation.
    It would be negotiating with Canada — and the United States, its neighbour to the south — over every aspect of its new relationship.

    Its borders with other provinces and territories would need be negotiated, as would the status of marginalized populations and Indigenous Peoples within Alberta. The status of lands subject to treaty — in other words, most of the province — would have to be negotiated.

    Indigenous Peoples themselves have already made clear they have no interest in secession and would mount a vigorous defence of Indigenous rights as they exist within Canada.

    After all, if Canada is divisible, so is Alberta. A new republic has no automatic claims to territory with respect to Indigenous Peoples and treaty lands.

    Once borders were settled, Alberta would have little leverage and would need a lot of help as a country of about 4.5 million negotiating with neighbours of 35 million in Canada and 350 million in the U.S. Who would be its allies?

    Nothing would be guaranteed, not Alberta’s admission to the United Nations, the establishment of an Albertan currency and exchange rates, national and continental defence, the management of shared borders and citizenship rules or the terms of cross-border trade and investment.

    Access to Canadian ports would be at Canada’s discretion, negotiated on terms Canada considered in its interests. Alberta could no more force a pipeline through Canada than through the United States.

    Puerto Rico North?

    Of course, a republic of Alberta would be free to pursue deeper relations with the American republic to its south. The U.S president, however, has already made clear what would be the likely terms for free trade: accession.

    Here, too, there would be no guarantees. Alberta could just as easily become an American territory, with limited representation, as it could a 51st state. “Puerto Rico North” is as possible as “Alaska South.”

    Gone too would be any claims to share collective goods. Alberta’s neighbours would have no incentive, for instance, to help with the inevitable post-oil clean-up, estimated in the hundreds of billions of dollars.

    Simply put, if Alberta were to vote to leave Canada, it would truly be on its own.

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

    – ref. What if Alberta really did vote to separate? – https://theconversation.com/what-if-alberta-really-did-vote-to-separate-257214

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Press Arrangements for IAEA Board of Governors Meeting, 9-13 June 2025

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA

    The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Board of Governors will convene its regular June meeting at the Agency’s headquarters at 10:00 CEST on Monday, 9 June, in Board Room C, Building C, 4th floor, in the Vienna International Centre (VIC). 

    Board discussions are expected to include, among others: Annual Report for 2024; strengthening of the Agency’s technical cooperation activities: Technical Cooperation Report for 2024; Report of the Programme and Budget Committee; verification and monitoring in the Islamic Republic of Iran in light of United Nations Security Council resolution 2231 (2015); staff of the Department of Safeguards to be used as Agency inspectors; Safeguards Implementation Report for 2024; application of safeguards in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea; implementation of the NPT Safeguards Agreement in the Syrian Arab Republic; NPT Safeguards Agreement with the Islamic Republic of Iran; nuclear safety, security and safeguards in Ukraine; transfer of the nuclear materials in the context of AUKUS and its safeguards in all aspects under the NPT; designation of members to serve on the Board in 2025–2026; provisional agenda for the 69th regular session of the General Conference; restoration of the sovereign equality of Member States in the IAEA; and representation of other organizations at the 69th regular session of the General Conference.

    The Board of Governors meeting is closed to the press. 

    IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi will open the meeting with an introductory statement, which will be released to journalists after delivery and posted on the IAEA website.  

    Press Conference 

    Director General Grossi is expected to hold a press conference at 13:00 CEST on Monday, 9 June, in the Press Room of the M building. 

    A live video stream of the press conference will be available. The IAEA will provide video footage of the press conference and the Director General’s opening statement here and will make photos available on Flickr.  

    Photo Opportunity 

    There will be a photo opportunity with the IAEA Director General and the Chair of the Board, Ambassador Matilda Aku Alomatu Osei-Agyeman of Ghana, before the start of the Board meeting, on 9 June at 10:00 CEST in Board Room C, in the C building in the VIC. 

    Press Working Area 

    The Press Room of the M building’s ground floor will be available as a press working area, starting from 09:00 CEST on 9 June.

    Accreditation

    All journalists interested in covering the meeting in person – including those with permanent accreditation – are requested to inform the IAEA Press Office of their plans. Journalists without permanent accreditation must send copies of their passport and press ID to the IAEA Press Office by 14:00 CEST on Friday, 6 June. 

    We encourage those journalists who do not yet have permanent accreditation to request it at UNIS Vienna. 

    Please plan your arrival to allow sufficient time to pass through the VIC security check. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Uncover Victoria Park’s lost bandstand site with The Storm Cone

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    The site of Victoria Park’s lost bandstand and its buried past can be explored like never before through an immersive new digital artwork.

    Experienced through personal devices, The Storm Cone is a unique sound and augmented reality artwork which has arrived in Portsmouth.

    This breathtaking work by artist Laura Daly features newly commissioned music composed by Lucy Pankhurst and eight sound works by Daly.  Visitors can ‘move around’ a life-size augmented reality bandstand at the city’s lost bandstand site in the centre of Victoria Park.

    Using The Storm Cone free app on a phone or tablet, visitors will experience the last musical performance of an interwar brass band and trace the journeys of the departed musicians through the eight sound works.

    The Storm Cone was originally commissioned by the University of Salford Art Collection and Metal, revealing the lost bandstands of Peel Park, Salford and Chalkwell Park, Southend in 2021.

    It has now been transported to the city as part of Portsmouth City Council’s restoration and revitalisation of Victoria Park as the ‘People’s Park’, made possible by a £2.4m grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

    Council Leader Cllr Steve Pitt said:

    “The bandstand was an original feature of Victoria Park when it opened in 1878 as the first public park for the people of Portsmouth. Bandstands were hugely popular attractions in Victorian Britain, but like many others, Portsmouth’s was lost sometime before the outbreak of the Second World War.

    “This new art and sound experience is a truly unique way of uncovering Victoria Park’s lost bandstand and learning about their cultural significance to life at the time.”

    The Storm Cone was recently a finalist for the prestigious international Lumen Art Prize. It charts a story of loss, celebration, human strength and fragility.

    It tells of the break-up and reshaping of communities during the interwar years and is named after Rudyard Kipling’s 1932 poem The Storm Cone, which has been interpreted as a forewarning for the Second World War.

    The Storm Cone can be experienced in Portsmouth until 30 September, using the free app which will guide users to the artwork. Headphones are recommended for the best experience.

    The Storm Cone was commissioned by Salford University Collection and Metal, with financial support from the National Lottery through Arts Council England, and additional support from Salford School of Arts, Media & Creative Technology, PN Daly Limited and Zinc and Copper Roofing Limited. Laura Daly is supported by The Artists Agency.

    Laura Daly and curator Lindsay Taylor will be in conversation on Tuesday 16 September, 2-3pm, at The Green House Community Hub in Victoria Park. Get Tickets.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Glacier Collapse Buries Swiss Village

    Source: NASA

    On the afternoon of May 28, 2025, an avalanche of rock and ice from the Birch Glacier (Birchgletscher) in southwestern Switzerland roared into the valley below. Debris buried most of the village of Blatten and dammed the Lonza, causing the river to flood. The event occurred after rock from a crumbling mountain peak built up on the glacier, which likely contributed to its ultimate collapse.
    The OLI-2 (Operational Land Imager) on Landsat 9 captured this image (right) of avalanche debris in the Lonza river valley on May 29, 2025, the day after the landslide. For comparison, the left image, acquired with the OLI on Landsat 8, shows the same area approximately one year before the slide, on June 19, 2024.
    The path of the debris flow descends the southern side of the valley from a peak called Kleiner Nesthorn toward Blatten. The event was so powerful that debris continued as much as 240 meters (790 feet) up the opposite valley wall. Rock and ice from the avalanche extended 2.5 kilometers (1.6 miles) down the valley, damming the river behind it and flooding part of the village.
    Scientists have been monitoring the Birch Glacier since it released several damaging avalanches in the 1990s. While the steeper upper portions of the glacier have thinned in the past decade, the ice near the glacier’s end has thickened by up to 15 meters (50 feet), likely because it had been covered and insulated by rock. Many glaciers in the Alps, including some of the range’s largest, are melting and thinning.
    Instability on the rocky slopes above the glacier became apparent in mid-May, prompting people to evacuate Blatten by May 19. Observers noted frequent rockfalls from Kleiner Nesthorn and a noticeable buildup of debris on the lower part of Birch Glacier. By May 27, the day before the catastrophic event, the glacier had sped up significantly, moving downhill at an estimated 10 meters (33 feet) per day, according to an ETH Zürich report.
    Scientists are still investigating what factors contributed to the event. However, some think that the added pressure from fresh rockfall on the glacier caused melting at its base. An increase in meltwater can cause glaciers to lose friction with the ground and slide more easily. Areas of permafrost at higher elevations may have also played a role. If permafrost melts, more water can reach rock layers and destabilize slopes, but scientists note they cannot yet link permafrost with the rockfall in this event.
    A glacial collapse of this magnitude is unusual for the Swiss Alps, researchers say, and it is relatively rare for massive slides to come from gently sloping glaciers. But similar rock-ice avalanches in Tibet, the Caucasus, and other mountainous regions in the past 25 years have garnered more scientific scrutiny because of their threats to communities.
    NASA Earth Observatory images by Michala Garrison, using Landsat data from the U.S. Geological Survey. Story by Lindsey Doermann.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Mine Your Way to Millions: Bitcoin Solaris Turns Your Smartphone into a Wealth-Generating Machine

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TALLINN, Estonia, June 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitcoin Solaris (BTC-S) has announced the launch the Beta version of their new mobile-first mining solution designed to make cryptocurrency mining accessible to a global audience for a selected group of users. By leveraging the power of smartphones, BTC-S enables users to participate in mining without the need for expensive hardware or specialized technical knowledge.

    A True Shift in Wealth-Building

    Bitcoin Solaris isn’t just promising a revolution in mining—it’s delivering one. This project is built to empower ordinary users with tools that were once reserved for tech-savvy miners and institutional whales. At the heart of it all is the upcoming Solaris Nova App, a sleek cross-platform tool that allows users to mine BTC-S directly from smartphones, browsers, and desktops.

    With intuitive one-click mining, adaptive algorithms, and in-app wallets, even beginners can participate in wealth generation. What used to require thousands of dollars in hardware is now possible from your pocket. This is where Web3 meets true decentralization—through effort, not privilege.

    How Bitcoin Solaris Makes Mobile Mining Real

    Thanks to its robust architecture, BTC-S delivers mobile mining with speed, efficiency, and inclusivity. The platform is designed to remove barriers—no costly rigs, no complex setups, and no middlemen.

    Technical Innovations Powering BTC-S:

    • Dual-layer structure: The Base Layer uses PoW and PoC for decentralization and validator fairness, while the Application Layer leverages PoT and PoH for near-instant transaction finality.
    • Solaris Nova App (through the exciting release): Offers plug-and-play mining on mobile and desktop. Integrated tutorials and wallets make onboarding frictionless.
    • Mining Power Marketplace: Users can rent or sell computational power through smart contracts and performance-based payouts.
    • Device adaptability: Whether you’re using a GPU, ASIC, laptop, or smartphone, the system optimizes mining load to fit your hardware.
    • Energy efficiency: The system uses 99.95% less energy than traditional PoW blockchains, ensuring green scalability.
    • Advanced security: From biometric logins to remote wipe and encrypted mining protocols, safety is built in.

    These innovations don’t just improve accessibility—they create the foundation for consistent long-term earnings. Bitcoin Solaris transforms mining into something anyone can understand, join, and profit from.

    The Future of Decentralization Is Already Mining—Start with BTC-S

    Why the Presale Is Exploding

    The Bitcoin Solaris presale is now in Phase 6, and momentum is building fast. With only around 8 weeks left, over 11,000 users have already joined, and $1.8M+ has been raised. It’s being called one of the shortest and most explosive presales in the crypto space. Investors know what’s coming—$6 today could become $20 at launch.

    • Current Price: $6
    • Next Phase: $7
    • Launch Price: $20
    • Bonus: 10%
    • Launch Date: July 31, 2025

    Early adopters are betting big not just on price—but on usability, infrastructure, and a mining revolution.

    A Community Backed by Experts and Influencers

    BTC-S isn’t flying under the radar anymore. A wave of interest has hit the crypto scene, with influencers and analysts digging into the tech and economics of Bitcoin Solaris. One of the standout reviews came from Crypto Nitro, who broke down why the project’s mining capabilities are catching serious attention. With decentralization at its core and innovation at every layer, it’s becoming the go-to altcoin for forward-thinking investors.

    A Glimpse Into the Future: The BTC-S Roadmap

    Bitcoin Solaris isn’t a short-term play. Its long-term roadmap is designed to evolve the ecosystem far beyond launch.

    • Q2–Q4 2025: Core development, smart contracts, community building
    • Q1 2026: Wallets, testnet, dual-layer architecture optimization
    • Q2 2026: Mainnet readiness, exchange listings
    • Q3 2026: Solaris Nova full release, governance systems
    • 2027–2028: Layer-2 scaling, cross-chain bridges, and real-world partnerships with enterprises and governments

    From accessibility to adoption, Bitcoin Solaris is engineered for growth.

    Conclusion: The Wealth Revolution Starts in Your Pocket

    While the crypto world gets distracted by meme cycles and flashy headlines, a quiet revolution is brewing. Bitcoin Solaris isn’t just building a coin—it’s building a participatory ecosystem where your phone becomes your mining rig, and your effort becomes your equity.

    The upcoming Solaris Nova App and the dual-consensus engine are just the beginning. With utility, transparency, and powerful scalability at its core, BTC-S is turning smartphones into income engines—and early adopters into potential millionaires.

    The opportunity to “mine your way to millions” is no longer a fantasy. It’s a reality, and it starts with Bitcoin Solaris.

    For more information on Bitcoin Solaris:

    Website: https://www.bitcoinsolaris.com/
    Telegram: https://t.me/Bitcoinsolaris
    X: https://x.com/BitcoinSolaris

    Media Contact
    Xander Levine
    press@bitcoinsolaris.com
    Press Kit: Available upon request

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

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

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/59042ac5-4d8d-40f4-a060-bc0457335ba7

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/69804242-b71a-4b26-8886-d00a32848f6c

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Stoke-on-Trent Lord Mayor helps to raise over £48,000 for local good causes

    Source: City of Stoke-on-Trent

    Published: Wednesday, 4th June 2025

    Two charities have been awarded an equal share of £48,054 thanks to the funding efforts of Stoke-on-Trent’s former Lord Mayor.

    During the 12-month period Councillor Lyn Sharpe was in office, between 16 May 2024 and 22 May 2025, she managed to raised thousands of pounds for her chosen charities; Period Power and Emmaus North Staffs.

    Fundraising events included the Over the Rainbow charity celebration at The King’s Hall, a barn dance, a St Patrick’s Day party, a bingo night and a dance evening.

    Councillor Sharpe said: “I have had the time of my life over the last 12 months. I have had some wonderful experiences, met some amazing people and raised a lot of money for my nominated charities. It’s been exhausting but brilliant.

    “I would like to say a big thank you to the generous and caring people of this wonderful city for their donations and support over the year. I would also like to thank my husband Kevin, and the Lord Mayor’s driver Dave, for their unwavering support.

    “It has been an absolute pleasure to represent the city as First Citizen during our Centenary year and I am looking forward to continuing to champion Stoke-on-Trent throughout the rest of the year and beyond.”

    Period Power is a charity which works to tackle period poverty through education and supplying period products to partner charities. Emmaus North Staffs supports households without access to essential furniture through its furniture emporium in Hanley.

    Representatives from both charities have been presented with a cheque for £24,027.

    Linda Allbut, founder and trustee of Period Power, said: “The amount of money raised by our outgoing Lord Mayor, Lyn Sharpe, was astronomical and we cannot thank her enough for her hard work over the last 12 months.

    “We will be able to support around 75,000 women and girls in the city and surrounding areas with the money raised. On behalf of all of these women we thank you from the bottom of our hearts.”

    John Webbe, executive lead at Emmaus North Staffs, said: “Emmaus North Staffs was delighted and honoured to be chosen by Lyn to be one of her Lord Mayor charities.

    “Our beds for kids initiative was really starting to gain ground in early 2024 and the work to eliminate child bed poverty in our local communities really tugged a heart-string with Lyn.

    “Since the start of 2024, we have delivered around 600 brand new bed bundles to local children and the amazing fundraising by Lyn will enable to deliver over a hundred more bed bundles. Every new bed bundle transforms the life of each child for years to come and there is no better outcome from Lyn’s amazing hard work than this legacy.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: ARU to take central role in boosting regional growth

    Source: Anglia Ruskin University

    Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) has become the new host institution for the Arc Universities Group (AUG) – a partnership delivering innovation, sustainability and inclusive growth across the Oxford-Cambridge corridor.

    ARU takes over from Cranfield University, which helped steer the group through its formative first six years.

    AUG is part of the Oxford-Cambridge Supercluster Board and brings together higher education institutions, industry leaders, training providers, and government bodies in Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Northamptonshire and Oxfordshire.

    It is estimated that this region holds the potential to deliver a further £78billion in additional economic output and more than 400,000 new high-skilled jobs by 2050, and AUG is developing a regional Skills and Talent Strategy to help unlock its full potential, focusing on technological innovation, environmental sustainability, and creative and cultural industries.

    Professor Aled Jones, Director of ARU’s Global Sustainability Institute, will lead the environmental sustainability focus area of the new strategy, working with investors, employers and policymakers to find practical solutions to workforce challenges around sustainable growth.

    “We’re delighted to take on the hosting of AUG. It aligns perfectly with the work we’re doing across the wider region – connecting Essex and East Anglia with the innovation clusters of the Oxford-Cambridge corridor.

    “We’re committed to helping shape a skills agenda that supports inclusive growth and ensures communities across the Arc benefit from its success.”

    Professor Roderick Watkins, Vice Chancellor of Anglia Ruskin University (ARU)

    The Arc Universities Group consists of ARU, Cranfield University, University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, Oxford Brookes University, University of Northampton, University of Hertfordshire, University of Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire New University and the Open University.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Art Gallery displays new works by contemporary artists

    Source: Scotland – City of Aberdeen

    Five new works by six local and international contemporary artists have gone on display at Aberdeen Art Gallery. The works have been commissioned with support from the Friends of Aberdeen Archives, Gallery & Museums.  

     
    All of the new commissions respond to existing works in the collection and are on display in Gallery 1 – Collecting art. This space tells the story of how the collection has developed since its Victorian origins, and explores the Art Gallery’s commitment to collecting contemporary art through a combination of gifts, bequests, donations, purchases and commissions.  
     
    The new works are a result of two commissioning strands and the artists are: 
     
    1. Self Portrayed 
    Annalee Davis (born 1963, St Michael, Barbados) 
    Richard Macguire (born 1991, Aberdeen) 
     
    2. Micro-Commissions 
    Daisy Williamson (born 1972, North Vancouver, Canada) 
    C(U)SP: Collection of (Unfinished) Shared Projects established Aberdeen, 2019 
    Flying Lion (born Buenos Aires, Argentina, 1982) 
     
    1. Self Portrayed 
    Granite merchant and art collection Alexander Macdonald (1837-1884) was instrumental in the creation of the Art Gallery, bequeathing his impressive collection to the city. Macdonald only bought works by living artists. A selection of his collection of 93 artists’ portraits is on display in Gallery 1. It is a real-time record of some of the most successful artists of the Victorian period.  
    The Self Portrayed commission seeks to redress the historical imbalance and lack of diversity in the original Macdonald portraits. The two commissioned artists were asked to make a self-portrait that expresses the self and speaks to their overall practice.  

    Richard Maguire (born 1991, Aberdeen) is based in Aberdeen. Made in England: A View from this Side is inspired by Maguire’s ancestral heritage, with portraits of his grandfather who travelled to the UK from India, overlaid with images of Maguire as a baby. There are also images of his grandfather’s colleagues who worked on a Tuberculosis ward – doctors who migrated from India were usually given the more dangerous ward rounds. 

    Annalee Davis (born 1963, St Michael, Barbados) works primarily in textiles. Her embroidered Self-portrait contains elements that speak to the location of her studio in Barbados. Working on a dairy farm that used to be a sugar plantation in the colonial era, Davis regularly finds shards of 18th-century ceramics in the ground. These have been woven on to the surface of the work.  
     
    2. Micro-commissions 
    Works commissioned as part of the Gallery’s fifth round of annual Micro-commissions are also on display.  The programme funds artists living and working in AB postcode areas to produce new work that relates to the Aberdeen Archives, Gallery and Museums collection and explores themes of energy, environment, local economy or identity and representation. The next round of Micro-Commissions will open for submissions in July.  
     
    Penelope’s Web(b) by Daisy Williamson  
    This work is inspired by Penelope and the Suitors by John William Waterhouse, which is also on display in Gallery 1. Discovering that ‘Penelope’ was also Ancient Greek for ‘duck’, Williamson chose a print of two eider ducks as a reference for her weaving. The tapestry is partially unwoven, highlighting the impact of climate change and the connection to Penelope’s story in Homer’s The Odyssey. 
     
    Studio Spaces, Aberdeen 2024 by C(U)SP 
    This print shows examples of empty office spaces used by artists in Aberdeen. The temporary nature of these spaces contrasts with the luxurious studio accommodation of artists or earlier eras such as John Phillip, who is captured at work in a painting by John Ballantyne from the 1860s, on display in Gallery 7.  
     
    Unisus – Totem of a Change by Flying Lion 
    Unisus, a Unicorn / Pegasus hybrid creature made from solar panels, wind turbines and composting bins, sits astride the Mercat Cross, highlighting Aberdeen’s transition towards a more sustainable future.  

     
    Councillor Martin Greig, Aberdeen City Council’s culture spokesperson, said, “It’s great to see these recently-commissioned works on display. They demonstrate the Gallery’s continuing commitment to supporting contemporary artists, particularly artists living and working in the North East. I’m sure visitors will enjoy exploring the new layers of meaning and insight the commissions bring to existing works in the collection.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Edinburgh residents encouraged to share views on Community Payback Orders as Consultation Opens

    Source: Scotland – City of Edinburgh

    With over 46,000 hours of unpaid work time carried out in Edinburgh in the year 2024-25, residents are being asked to share their views on Community Payback Orders (CPO).

    CPOs are given by the Court to people to pay for their crimes as an alternative to a prison sentence, with local communities putting forward ideas to their local authority for the unpaid work carried out where they live.

    Edinburgh residents are now being encouraged to feed back on the unpaid work that has been carried out in their area and how it has helped the local community. There is also the chance to suggest local community groups or projects that could benefit from unpaid work.

    CPOs were set up in 2011 by the Scottish Government as a replacement for community service.

    Examples of unpaid work include:

    · developing and maintaining children’s play areas

    · recycling projects including bicycles and outdoor furniture.

    · cleaning beaches, graffiti, litter

    We welcome views on the effectiveness of Community Payback Orders as a way to reduce re-offending and we want to know:

    · Do you have any experience of people doing unpaid work in your community?

    · Do you think unpaid work gives people the opportunity to repay the community for the crimes they have committed?

    · Do you have any ideas about residents, community projects or organisations who could benefit from unpaid work support?

    · Recommendations for groups, residents, organisations or projects that may benefit from unpaid work,

    Councillor Tim Pogson, Chair of Edinburgh Community Safety and Justice Partnership, said:

    “Community Payback Orders offer a positive alternative to a prison sentence for many people convicted of a criminal offence providing them with the opportunity to serve their sentence in a way that benefits local communities through unpaid work. CPOs support participants to learn new skills, gain confidence, and work as part of a team, whilst making a difference in their own life and the lives of those around them.

    “In Edinburgh we have several successful projects underway which enable CPOs to be completed, including community clear ups, repainting community centres and the ‘Brake the Cycle’ scheme, which involves individuals undertaking CPOs repairing bikes for reuse as part of community projects. I would encourage local Edinburgh residents to engage with the consultation and share their views to help shape CPO unpaid work in the City.”

    Published: June 4th 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Manchester Culture Awards 2025 – nominations now open!

    Source: City of Manchester

    The Manchester Culture Awards are back for 2025 with nominations opening this week for the prestigious awards that recognise the city’s cultural and creative highlights over the last year, as well as some of the city’s top talent working in the arts.

    The awards were launched in 2018 by the city council to acknowledge Manchester’s rapidly growing reputation for culture and the arts, with the annual awards recognising the very best of culture, creativity, and the arts in the city from the grassroots up.

    More than 350 nominations were received last year recognising individuals, events, and organisations big and small that together help make Manchester the vibrant and exciting place for culture and the arts it is.

    Nominations for this year’s awards open this week on Wednesday 4 June, with nominations accepted across eleven different categories including Young Creative of the Year, Best Event, and Best Performance, alongside other awards that shine a spotlight on some of the important themes of our times such as climate change, equality and social justice, and health and wellbeing.

    This year will also once again see a special award made in partnership with the Manchester Evening News.  The Cultural Welcome Award will be presented to an organisation or venue that provides a great welcome to everyone – whether as audience members, visitors, or participants.

    Nominees for each of the awards must either be based in the city of Manchester or have a strong track record of delivering activity for the benefit of people who live in or visit the city, or that benefits the local economy.  Nominations are welcome from the professional, amateur and community sector, as well as members of the public.

    All nominations must reflect activity that has taken place between 1 April 2024 and 31 March 2025, apart from the Cultural Welcome Award, which recognises achievement over a number of years.

    To be recognised for a Manchester Culture Award, nominees must be involved in one or more of the following: visual art, music, theatre, performance, dance, film and broadcast media, literature, digital art, photography, craft, or heritage arts.

    The award categories are:

    Bright Spark: Young Creative of the Year 

    A young person (aged 13–25) who is inspiring future generations of Mancunians and others through their creativity or is supporting others to be creative. 

    Excellence in Creative Health and Wellbeing

    Fantastic creative activity that helped people feel better in their body and/or mind. 

    Champions of Equality and Social Justice 

    Making change and creating opportunities for equality and diversity to thrive.

    Our Planet: Action on Climate Change 

    Taking action to positively benefit the environment and support climate change, or raising awareness and encouraging others to act.  

    Igniting Creativity: Culture, Education and Talent Development 

    Doing great work supporting others to develop their learning, creativity, skills and talents.

    Making it Happen: Best Business Partnership 

    A partnership that supports culture and helps it flourish in Manchester. 

    The Best Event 

     A brilliant creative or cultural event that deserves recognition. 

    The Best Performance 

    A standout performance, in any art form, that was amazing and captivated the audience. 

    The Best Exhibition

    An arts or heritage exhibition that inspired and left a lasting impact on visitors. 

    Independent Creative Award 

    A person working independently in the creative sector who is inspiring and innovating through their artform and projects

    The Cultural Welcome Award – in association with the Manchester Evening News

    An organisation or venue that provides a great welcome to everyone; whether as audience members, visitors, or participants

    A number of Special Recognition Awards for significant contributions to culture over a number of years will also be made on the night.  Previous recipients of Special Recognition Awards include poet Lemn Sissay, former Halle Music Director Sir Mark Elder, former Director of HOME Dave Moutrey OBE, poet performance artist dramatist and writer SuAndi OBE, and DJ Paulette.

    Councillor Garry Bridges, Deputy Leader, Manchester City Council, said: “Culture and creativity is a massive part of what makes Manchester the vibrant and exciting place that it is and makes a major contribution to the city’s economy – which is one of the fastest growing in Europe.

    “The incredible number of nominations we’ve had every year since the awards first began shows what an appetite for culture and the arts there is in the city. And with such a richly diverse talent pool of artists and creatives living and working here it’s no surprise that we’re a city that embraces culture and the arts.

    “The creative scene in Manchester is amazing and we can’t wait to see what this year’s nominations bring.”

    Nominations open on Wednesday 4 June and close at midnight on Friday 4 July.

    Judging will take place over the summer ahead of this year’s awards ceremony which will be held at the Hilton Hotel Deansgate on Saturday 22 November.

    Find out more information about the awards and make a nomination

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Tourist flow from Russia to Beijing is 4 times higher than pre-pandemic level

    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 4 (Xinhua) — According to the latest statistics, the number of Russian citizens who visited Beijing in April 2025 was 50,160 people, more than four times higher than the pre-pandemic figure for the same month in 2019 (11,287 people). Russia is the leader among all European countries in terms of the growth rate of this indicator.

    According to data from the Beijing Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism, the Chinese capital received 454,920 foreign tourists in April, up 23.5 percent from the same month in 2019.

    A similar situation occurred in another megacity, Shanghai, which, together with Beijing, is considered a barometer for assessing China’s inbound tourism. There, 670.9 thousand inbound tourist trips were recorded in April, which is 40.5 percent more than in the same month in 2024, and in 2019 the figure was 640.8 thousand.

    As a reminder, thanks to China’s continued expansion of visa-free access and other measures to ease inbound travel for foreigners, the country saw 64.88 million border crossings by foreign nationals in 2024, an increase of 82.9 percent from the previous year, with over 20 million inbound trips made under the visa-free regime. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: New cargo air route opens from Guangzhou to Miami

    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

    GUANGZHOU, June 4 (Xinhua) — A new air cargo route has linked Guangzhou, capital of south China’s Guangdong Province, with Miami in the United States.

    The first flight loaded entirely with e-commerce goods departed from Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport on Monday, June 2.

    The operator of the new route is Guangzhou Daking Scm Chain Management Co., Ltd. Its launch allows to reduce delivery time to 18 hours – 5 hours less than existing routes, i.e. cargo can be delivered on the same day or at least the next day.

    For now, one scheduled flight per week is planned, but as demand grows, the frequency of flights may increase. Guangzhou Daking expects that this step will significantly strengthen the logistics of cross-border e-commerce.

    The company is based in Guangzhou’s Nansha District, where cross-border e-commerce is rapidly gaining momentum, with total trade volume growing sharply from 20 million yuan (about $2.8 million) in 2014 to 46 billion yuan in 2024.

    The company views the launch of the Guangzhou-Miami route as a strategic move to optimize its presence in the U.S. market, allowing more cross-border e-commerce businesses to export goods and better meet consumer demand in the United States. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Domestic travel up 5.7% during China’s Duanwu holiday

    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 4 (Xinhua) — China’s tourism sector saw robust growth during the traditional Duanwu (Dragon Boat Festival) holiday, which ran from May 31 to June 2 this year, with domestic trips up 5.7 percent year on year to 119 million, data released by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism showed Tuesday.

    During the period, tourism revenue reached 42.73 billion yuan (about 5.95 billion US dollars), up 5.9 percent from the previous year.

    Duanwu is celebrated on the 5th day of the 5th month of the lunar calendar, believed to commemorate the poet Qu Yuan. The day is marked by boat races with dragon-headed bows and zongzi (a traditional glutinous rice dish wrapped in bamboo or reed leaves) eaten.

    This year’s Duanwu Festival coincided with International Children’s Day, with museums, art galleries and cultural centres across the country attracting large numbers of visitors. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Xi Jinping Meets with President of Belarus /detailed version-1/

    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 4 (Xinhua) — Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko in Beijing on Wednesday. Once again congratulating Lukashenko on his re-election as president of Belarus, Xi Jinping noted that China and Belarus are true friends and good partners who have always treated each other with sincerity and trust.

    Xi Jinping noted that the traditional friendship between the two countries is growing stronger day by day, political mutual trust remains unshakable, and cooperation in all areas is advancing comprehensively. China has always viewed and developed China-Belarus relations from a strategic height and a long-term perspective, he added.

    Xi Jinping said that China is ready to work together with Belarus to promote the sustainable development of bilateral ties and mutually beneficial cooperation.

    The Chinese President stressed that the two sides should strengthen coordination and cooperation within multilateral formats such as the United Nations (UN) and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), jointly oppose despotism, hegemony and bullying, and uphold international fairness and justice.

    A. Lukashenko, in turn, noted that he was visiting China for the 15th time, adding that during each of these visits he felt a sense of deep friendship on the part of China.

    Thanking China for the enormous support and assistance it has provided to Belarus over a long period of time, A. Lukashenko stated that Belarus has a high degree of trust in China and will actively develop cooperation with it.

    China resolutely defends multilateralism and opposes unilateralism, sanctions and pressure in international affairs, setting an example for the whole world, the President of Belarus noted. He expressed deep admiration and readiness to make joint efforts with China to protect international impartiality and justice. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China accelerates high-quality grid connections

    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 4 (Xinhua) — China has made continuous efforts to expand access to electricity to meet growing demand for high-quality energy services and ensure the country’s economic and social development.

    The relevant guideline, jointly issued by the National Reform and Development Commission and the State Energy Administration, calls on energy authorities and power grid operators across the country to take concrete steps to further expand the coverage of electricity access services so as to build a modern and efficient electricity service business environment nationwide by 2029.

    The aim set out in the guidelines includes providing simple and convenient electricity connection services, ensuring high-quality electricity supply, promoting green energy, providing inclusive services and conducting coordinated inspections to improve overall service quality.

    The document emphasizes that the provision of electricity services is an important component in the formation of a first-class internationalized business climate in the country, characterized by compliance with market principles and the rule of law. The document is aimed at further increasing the satisfaction of the population with services in the above-mentioned area.

    It outlines measures in 14 key areas aimed at improving the quality of electricity supply services, such as expanding “zero investment” low-voltage power grid connection services for non-state enterprises, introducing strict time frames for completing connection procedures, etc.

    The guidelines also call for innovative electricity services, such as new hotspots to meet temporary power needs during spring irrigation and autumn harvesting, as well as to meet the needs of street stall owners and night market vendors. These efforts are aimed at revitalizing rural life and stimulating consumption. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Istanbul to Remain Platform for Russia-Ukraine Negotiations — Russian Foreign Ministry

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    Moscow, June 4 /Xinhua/ — There is no question of changing Istanbul as a venue for negotiations between Russia and Ukraine, said Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko.

    Answering the question about whether the Vatican could become the venue for the next round of negotiations, the diplomat said: “/Russian Foreign Minister/ Sergey Viktorovich Lavrov very clearly expressed our point of view. Istanbul is a platform where a certain experience of communication has already been accumulated,” TASS quotes A. Grushko as saying.

    A representative of the Russian Foreign Ministry noted that “the issue is not about the platforms, the issue is about the essence.” “Therefore, at present, the issue of choosing some new platform in the practical plane is not worth it. It is not even worth thinking about,” he emphasized.

    The second round of direct talks between Russia and Ukraine took place in Istanbul on Monday. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: South Korean President appoints prime minister and top officials

    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

    SEOUL, June 4 (Xinhua) — President of the Republic of Korea (ROK) Lee Jae-myung has appointed a prime minister and senior officials after being sworn in as the country’s 21st president, the presidential office said.

    Kim Min-seok, a lawmaker from the ruling Toburo Democratic Party and co-chairman of Lee Jae-myung’s election campaign, has been nominated for the post of cabinet chief.

    The prime minister’s candidacy must be approved by the National Assembly (parliament), controlled by the Toburo Democratic Party, after appropriate hearings.

    Lee Jae-myung appointed ruling party lawmaker Kang Hoon-sik as presidential chief of staff and diplomat Wi Sung-rak, who was first elected to parliament last April from the Toburo Democratic Party, as top national security adviser to the president.

    The president also appointed former Unification Minister Lee Jong-suk as director of the National Intelligence Service.

    Lee Jae-myung was sworn in as South Korea’s new president at the National Assembly on Wednesday, officially beginning his first five-year term in office. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Nine killed in road accident in central India

    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

    NEW DELHI, June 4 (Xinhua) — At least nine people, including three women, were killed and two others injured in a road accident in central India on Wednesday morning, local police said.

    Among the victims were a woman and a child.

    The incident took place around 3:00 am in Jhabua district of Madhya Pradesh in the central part of the country. A truck carrying bags of cement overturned on a van carrying passengers, trapping them underneath.

    The police added that the deceased were in an accident while returning from a relative’s wedding. The injured were hospitalized. –0–

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: Xi Jinping Congratulates Lee Jae-myung on Election as President of the Republic of Korea

    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 4 (Xinhua) — Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday congratulated Lee Jae-myung on his election as president of the Republic of Korea (ROK).

    Noting that China and the ROK are important close neighbors and cooperative partners, Xi said that in the 33 years since the establishment of diplomatic ties, the two sides have overcome differences in ideology and social systems, advanced hand in hand and achieved mutual successes, achieving stable and healthy development of bilateral relations.

    He added that this not only improved the well-being of the peoples of the two countries, but also made a positive contribution to promoting regional peace, stability, development and prosperity.

    The Chinese leader stressed that he attaches great importance to developing relations with the Republic of Korea.

    In the modern world, changes unseen in a century are occurring at an accelerated pace and destabilizing factors in the international and regional situation are increasing, he noted.

    China and the ROK are important countries in the world and the region, and Beijing is willing to work with Seoul to remain committed to the spirit that guided the establishment of their diplomatic ties, uphold good-neighborliness and friendship, and adhere to the goal of mutual benefit and win-win, so as to jointly promote the continuous development of the bilateral strategic cooperative partnership and bring more benefits to the two peoples, Xi said. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Cambodia, Thailand to discuss border issues next week: spokesman

    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

    PHNOM PENH, June 4 (Xinhua) — A joint meeting of the Cambodia-Thai Boundary Commission will be held in Phnom Penh on June 14 to discuss border issues, Cambodian Foreign Ministry spokesman Cham Soonri said on Wednesday.

    “Cambodia is committed to the peaceful resolution of border issues through technical mechanisms and in accordance with international law,” he wrote in a text message sent to media outlets on the Telegram messenger.

    He noted that the main focus of the meeting would be on the area where the incident recently occurred.

    The representative also stated that Cambodia, firmly committed to protecting its sovereignty and territorial integrity, intends to transform its borders with neighboring countries into zones of peace, friendship, cooperation and development for the benefit of all countries and peoples.

    The meeting was planned after a brief shootout between soldiers from the two countries in the Emerald Triangle on May 28, which resulted in the death of a Cambodian soldier.

    The Emerald Triangle is the area where the borders of Cambodia, Thailand and Laos meet.

    Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet said on Sunday that at an upcoming commission meeting, Cambodia will propose to Thailand that the issue of border disputes involving the Emerald Triangle region, as well as the issue of the Ta Moan Thom, Ta Moan Toch and Ta Krabei temples, be referred to the International Court of Justice. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China launches campaign to stimulate consumption of services

    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

    NANJING, June 4 (Xinhua) — A nationwide service consumption campaign was launched in Nanjing, capital of east China’s Jiangsu Province, on Tuesday, the latest major initiative to boost growth in the sector.

    The event, organized by the Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China and China Media Group, with the support of the Jiangsu Provincial Bureau of Commerce and the Nanjing People’s Government, aims to cultivate new consumption points in the service sector and thereby create a new consumption architecture characterized by interaction and favorable circulation between supply and consumption.

    The campaign will involve more than 160 key events involving government agencies, national industry associations and leading enterprises to create new consumption scenarios, stimulate consumer potential and expand the supply of high-quality services to meet the diverse demands of the population.

    In 2024, Jiangsu Province’s service consumption expenditure accounted for 46.3% of the province’s total consumption expenditure, 0.2 percentage points higher than the national average. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Sultan Qaboos University and HSE Discuss Scientific and Educational Cooperation

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    © Higher School of Economics

    On May 29, 2025, a delegation from Sultan Qaboos University paid an official visit to HSE. The meeting was held on Pokrovsky Boulevard and was dedicated to the development of partnership in science and education. The delegation was led by the Rector of Sultan Qaboos University, His Highness Dr. Fahd Al Said. During the visit, an agreement on cooperation and exchange between the universities was signed.

    The parties discussed possible formats of cooperation: academic and student exchanges, joint research, teaching Arabic to HSE students, and joint publications in international scientific journals. The participants noted their interest in establishing direct contacts between the research teams of the two universities.

    HSE Rector Nikita Anisimov noted that interest in the Middle East countries, including the Sultanate of Oman, is growing, and stressed the importance of dialogue with universities in the region. According to him, Russian higher education today is focused on technological development in both engineering and humanitarian fields, and HSE is actively involved in implementing the priorities outlined by the Russian Government for the next decade. The Rector specifically emphasized that Russian society faces several key challenges, one of which is overcoming the technological gap. HSE contributes to solving these problems by creating in-demand scientific and applied developments.

    Rector of Sultan Qaboos University His Highness Fahd Al Said spoke about the history and key areas of work of the university, noting its strong positions in international rankings, high competition for admission and active research activities. He expressed hope that HSE students will also be able to study in Oman, and proposed to identify specific steps for developing the partnership within two months.

    The meeting was also attended by the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Sultanate of Oman to Russia, Mr. Hamud Salim Abdullah Al Tuwaikh. On behalf of the HSE, the meeting was attended by Nadezhda Orlova, Director Institute of Agricultural Research and academic director of the educational program “Bioinformatics in agrobiotechnologies“, Anna Shestakova, director Institute of Cognitive Neurosciences, Anton Yanovsky, director Center for commercialization of developments and technology transfer, as well as Director of Internationalization Kirill Kisel.

    The parties expressed confidence that educational and scientific cooperation will strengthen ties between the states.

    Sultan Qaboos University was founded in 1986 and is one of two public universities in the Sultanate of Oman. The university is ranked 1st in the country and 362nd in the world according to QS 2025. It offers programs in arts and social sciences, economics, political science, education, law, medicine and natural sciences, and many other areas. Most of the educational programs at Sultan Qaboos University are taught in English.

    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 Economics: ECB reports on Bulgaria’s progress towards euro adoption

    Source: European Central Bank

    4 June 2025

    • ECB report assesses Bulgaria’s progress towards Economic and Monetary Union
    • Positive assessment with respect to possible euro adoption on 1 January 2026

    Bulgaria has made good progress towards economic convergence with the euro area since 2024, according to the Convergence Report of the European Central Bank (ECB) published today.

    “This positive assessment of convergence paves the way for Bulgaria to introduce the euro as of 1 January 2026 and become the 21st EU Member State to join the euro area,” said Philip R. Lane, Member of the ECB Executive Board. “I wish to congratulate Bulgaria on its tremendous dedication to making the adjustments needed.”

    According to the ECB’s assessment, Bulgaria is within the reference values of the convergence criteria and complies with the legal requirements. Having participated in the exchange rate mechanism (ERM II) and the banking union since 10 July 2020, Bulgaria has made another step towards European integration under challenging economic conditions. Achieving an environment that is conducive to sustainable convergence in Bulgaria requires stability-oriented economic policies and wide-ranging structural reforms. These policies are discussed in more detail in the report.

    As regards the price stability criterion, in April 2025, the 12-month average rate of HICP inflation in Bulgaria stood at 2.7%, i.e. just below the reference value of 2.8% (Chart 1). The reference value is based on the three best performing Member States in terms of price stability, i.e. Ireland (1.2%), Finland (1.3%) and Italy (1.4%), taking their average inflation over the past 12 months and adding 1.5 percentage points.

    Chart 1

    HICP inflation and reference value

    (annual percentage changes)

    Sources: European Commission (Eurostat) and ECB calculations.
    Notes: 12-month moving average rounded to one decimal.

    Regarding the fiscal criterion, Bulgaria has not been subject to an excessive deficit procedure since 2012. The country’s general government budget deficit stood at 3.0% of GDP in 2024, i.e. at the level of the 3% reference value (Chart 2). Its general government gross debt-to-GDP ratio stood at 24.1%, i.e. well below the 60% reference value, and it has been well below 60% of GDP for the past 20 years.

    Chart 2

    General government balance and debt

    (as a percentage of GDP)

    Sources: European System of Central Banks and European Commission (Eurostat).

    As regards the exchange rate criterion, the Bulgarian lev participated in ERM II in the two-year reference period from 20 May 2023 to 19 May 2025. Over the reference period, the lev did not exhibit any deviation from the central rate of 1.95583 levs per euro. Bulgaria has completed almost all of its ERM II post-entry commitments, but further progress is needed to address the outstanding shortcomings in the area of anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism.

    Long-term interest rates in Bulgaria stood at 3.9%, on average, over the reference period from May 2024 to April 2025 and were therefore below the 5.1% reference value for the interest rate convergence criterion.

    As for the compatibility of national legislation, Bulgarian law is compatible with the Treaties and the Statute of the ESCB, as required under Article 131 of the Treaty.

    Today’s report was published following Bulgaria’s request, the next regular Convergence Report of the ECB will be published in 2026.

    For media queries, please contact Benoit Deeg, tel.: +49 172 1683704.

    Notes

    • European Commission Convergence Report 2025
    • Close cooperation established between ECB and Bulgaria
    • The Convergence Report of the ECB reviews the economic and legal convergence of non-euro area EU Member States with a derogation every second year or at the request of a specific country. It assesses the degree of sustainable economic convergence with the euro area, whether the national legislation is compatible with the EU legal framework, and whether the statutory requirements are fulfilled for the respective national central banks. Given its “opt-out” clause, Denmark is not covered by this assessment unless this is specifically requested by the country.
    • The cut-off date for the statistics included in this Convergence Report was 19 May 2025. The reference period for the price stability criterion and the long-term interest rate criterion is from May 2024 to April 2025. Forecasts are based on the European Commission’s Spring 2025 Economic Forecast and other information relevant to a forward-looking assessment of the sustainability of convergence.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Thales Unveils State-of-the-Art Inflight Entertainment & Services Lab at its Engineering Competence Centre in Bengaluru

    Source: Thales Group

    Headline: Thales Unveils State-of-the-Art Inflight Entertainment & Services Lab at its Engineering Competence Centre in Bengaluru

    • The new lab, dedicated to development of Inflight Entertainment (IFE) solutions and advanced tools for support and services to airlines, reinforces India’s strategic position as an innovation hub for Thales.
    • Our engineers at Thales in India will design, develop, and test innovative solutions to support the needs of Indian airlines and global customers.
    • Aligned with Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision, the facility will significantly contribute to localisation of R&D activities along with job creation in India.

    Thales today unveiled a state-of-the-art Inflight Entertainment (IFE) and Services lab at its Engineering Competence Centre (ECC) in Bengaluru. Aligned with the vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’, this lab will serve as a hub for the design, development, and testing of next-generation IFE systems. The lab is equipped with advanced tools to support and serve airlines in India and around the world.

    The inauguration ceremony was held in the presence of Honourable Minister of Industries, Government of Karnataka, Shri MB Patil, Consul General of France in Bengaluru Mr Marc Lamy, executives from Air India, Indo-French Chamber of Commerce & Industry, along with Olivier Flous, Senior Vice President, Engineering and Digital Transformation, and Francois Colonna, Director Engineering Competence Centre, Bengaluru from Thales, among other dignitaries.

    Thales’s Engineering Competence Centre in Bengaluru is a key force driving the development of advanced aerospace and defence solutions. With the addition of the new IFE and Services lab, Thales is further expanding its R&D capabilities in India supporting the country’s journey to become a global innovation hub for civil aviation. This state-of-the-art facility replicates an aircraft equipped with an IFE system, allowing for comprehensive testing and an immersive customer experience review. The lab is a hub for software design, development, and rigorous testing crucial for secured aircraft data deployment, alongside meticulous hardware inspection and testing.

    Commenting on the inauguration, Hon’ble Minister Shri MB Patil said, “Today’s inauguration of Thales’s Inflight Entertainment and Services Lab at its Engineering Competence Centre reinforces Bengaluru’s position as a global innovation hub. It’s a testament to Karnataka’s robust aerospace and defence ecosystem. Thales’s footprint in India, particularly here in Bengaluru, is already substantial and has been contributing significantly towards the growth of aerospace, defence and cybersecurity & digital identity for years. Their Engineering Competence Centre has become an integral part of the local industry. Many congratulations to the Thales team for this significant milestone that will strengthen the aviation sector not just within Karnataka, but across the nation.”

    Mr Marc Lamy, Consul General of France in Bengaluru, said, “Thales is a name synonymous with French excellence, a global leader at the forefront of advanced technologies. The inauguration of this IFE (Inflight Entertainment) and services lab is a moment of immense pride, reflecting the vibrant spirit of innovation and partnership that defines both our nations, France and India. This perfectly embodies the spirit of the upcoming year 2026 designated by President Emmanuel Macron and Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the ‘Indo-French Year of Innovation’.”

    Olivier Flous, Senior Vice President, Engineering & Digital Transformation, Thales, said, “The inauguration of our new lab dedicated to Inflight Entertainment solutions and support and services for airlines marks a significant step towards enhancing both the passenger experience and operational efficiency of carriers. This new facility at our Engineering Competence Centre in Bengaluru underscores our commitment to the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ vision, developing future-ready aviation technologies in India, for India, and for the world. We look forward to continue leveraging our global technological expertise and India’s vast talent pool to foster a robust local civil aviation ecosystem.”

    About Thales

    Thales (Euronext Paris: HO) is a global leader in advanced technologies for the Defence, Aerospace, and Cyber & Digital sectors. Its portfolio of innovative products and services addresses several major challenges: sovereignty, security, sustainability and inclusion.

    The Group invests more than €4 billion per year in Research & Development in key areas, particularly for critical environments, such as Artificial Intelligence, cybersecurity, quantum and cloud technologies.

    Thales has more than 83,000 employees in 68 countries. In 2024, the Group generated sales of €20.6 billion.

    About Thales in India

    Present in India since 1953, Thales is headquartered in Noida and has other operational offices and sites spread across Delhi, Gurugram, Bengaluru and Mumbai, among others. Over 2200 employees are working with Thales and its joint ventures in India. Since the beginning, Thales has been playing an essential role in India’s growth story by sharing its technologies and expertise in Defence, Aerospace and Cyber & Digital sectors. Thales has two engineering competence centres in India – one in Noida focused on Cyber & Digital business, while the one in Bengaluru focuses on hardware, software and systems engineering capabilities for both the civil and defence sectors, serving global needs. Thales significantly contributes to the growth of India’s aviation sector. Thales provides avionics and IFE systems for many Indian civil aircraft. It also provides solutions to enhance airport security and is working on an advanced UTM system for drone operations. The Group has also established an MRO facility in Gurugram to provide comprehensive avionics maintenance and repair services to Indian airlines.

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  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN meets with the Minister of Finance of Viet Nam

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, met with the Minister of Finance of Viet Nam, H.E. Nguyen Van Thang, at the OECD Headquarters in Paris, France, on 4 June 2025. They discussed current global economic developments, regional finance cooperation, and the formulation of the forthcoming sectoral plan on finance to support the implementation of the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) Strategic Plan 2026–2030—an integral component of the ASEAN Community Vision 2045.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN meets with the Minister of Finance of Viet Nam appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

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