Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –
The Polytechnic University hosted a music festival dedicated to the closing of the season at the SPbPU Student Club. Students gathered on an improvised stage to listen to the performances of the Polytechnicians.
The evening was opened by the SPbPU Pop Symphony Orchestra “Ingenium”, winner and laureate of many All-Russian and international competitions. Under the direction of conductor Dmitry Misyura, the musicians masterfully performed rock hits of the genre’s legends: from the powerful compositions “Rammstein” and “Aria” to the cult tracks “Europe” and “Survivor”. The audience not only applauded, but also unanimously picked up the familiar tunes.
Up until this point, we considered ourselves experienced musicians, sufficiently seasoned by stage performances. But when we found ourselves in the open air, we were very surprised. We had no idea how difficult it was. On the one hand, it was an informal street setting and a sense of freedom, on the other hand, the need to be super focused, because the sound literally flies in different directions. In general, this is an incredibly interesting experience for the orchestra. The impressions are amazing! – shared first-year student of the Institute of Culture and Science, violinist Natalia Maksimova.
No less striking was the appearance on stage of the international group “Secret Scarlet”. Created three years ago by foreign students of the Polytechnic University, the group united musicians from Indonesia, Russia and Bolivia. Sharp guitar riffs, energetic vocals and driving arrangements conquered the audience, proving that music erases boundaries. Festival guests not only sang along and danced, but also created: they left warm wishes and author’s autographs on the art wall made of vinyl records.
The 2024-2025 season was busy for student creative associations: the groups went to perform all over Russia – they visited Moscow seven times, Veliky Novgorod three times, showed themselves in Gatchina, Kislovodsk, Samara and Petrozavodsk. Foreign trips were not ignored either: choirs sang at concert venues in Armenia and Belarus. In total, over the past season, the Polytechnic studios and associations performed 135 times, gave 61 performances, and won 50 awards in competitions and festivals.
Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –
Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University took part in the IV International Scientific and Practical Conference “Discovering the World of Science”. The event was held at the preparatory faculty for foreign students. Young researchers from Tomsk and Perm Polytechnic Universities, Ivanovo State Medical University and Kazan Federal University also took part. Foreign participants discussed the history of science, important scientific discoveries and achievements, as well as promising scientific areas in countries and regions of the world.
Pre-graduate students of the Higher School of International Educational Programs (HSIEP) from Pakistan Zarak Ali Khan and Zaib Shah presented reports prepared under the supervision of Deputy Head of Research Daria Ignatyeva and Senior Lecturer Ksenia Moiseyeva. Zarak Ali Khan presented the study “Comparative Analysis of Load Flows for Different Power Plant Configurations in ETAP”, which is dedicated to the optimization of power systems. Zaib Shah presented innovative solutions in the field of renewable energy in the report “Methods for Tracking the Maximum Power Point in Solar Power Systems”.
The jury highly appreciated the scientific depth of the works: Zaib Shah took first place, and Zarak Ali Khan – third. Thanks to this, they got the opportunity to publish in the scientific journal of KFU.
The event became an important platform for exchanging experience between young scientists and identifying promising areas of research. Participants agreed to intensify inter-university cooperation in energy, engineering and medical technologies, develop joint projects focused on sustainable development and “green” technologies, and expand academic mobility programs.
Zarak Ali Khan said that he had an unforgettable experience thanks to the combination of professional growth and acquaintance with the cultural heritage of the city. Zaib Shah compared Kazan to a page from a fairy tale, noting the beauty of the Kremlin, Lake Kaban, Bauman Street and the local cuisine.
The conference organisers noted the growing level of scientific work by foreign students and expressed confidence that the event would become a traditional launching pad for future discoveries.
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.
A steering committee meeting for the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP) was held at Palazzo Chigi this afternoon, called and chaired by the Minister for European Affairs, the NRRP and Cohesion Policy, Tommaso Foti. The meeting, attended by all Ministers and Undersecretaries of State involved as well as by representatives from ANCI [National Association of Italian Municipalities], UPI [Union of Italian Provinces] and the Conference of Regions and Autonomous Provinces, approved a proposal for a technical review of the NRRP, aimed at ensuring its effective implementation, which will soon be submitted to Parliament and to the European Commission. The update regards changes due to objectively new circumstances that have arisen as well as formal corrections, in full compliance with the EU regulation on the Recovery and Resilience Facility, which allows Member States to request amendments to their national plans.
During the steering committee meeting, which acknowledged the NRRP’s implementation status, Minister Foti shared amendment proposals from the administrations concerned as well as information linked to the constructive ongoing discussions with the European Commission regarding updates to the Plan, which, in any case, will not have an impact on its ambition or overall financial allocation. In addition to a restructuring of rail investments to strengthen strategic lines, the proposal also provides for an increase in investments for the implementation of biomethane plants to develop a circular economy for waste and to incentivise the future of mobility through low environmental impact cars.
With regard to the Plan’s financial progress, to date, seven payment requests have been submitted and the corresponding disbursements have been made for the first six instalments, making Italy the EU Member State to have received the most funding, equal to EUR 122 billion, corresponding to 63% of the NRRP’s total resources. With the next payment of the seventh instalment, currently undergoing final review by the European Commission, Italy’s leading position in Europe in terms of the progress of its Plan will be confirmed, with EUR 140 billion received, corresponding to 72% of the total resources, and regarding performance, with approximately 55% of the planned goals achieved.
Discussions with the administrations concerned and with the European Commission are still ongoing to ensure full implementation of the Plan, also through an overall adjustment. This adjustment will follow the technical review proposal on the agenda for today’s steering committee meeting, which is to be discussed by Parliament in the coming days.
The Portsmouth Museums retail team have won the ‘Shop of the Year’ category at Museums + Heritage Awards for their ‘remarkable’ turnaround of the D-Day Story shop.
The award-winning D-Day Story shop
The prestigious awards celebrate the very best in the world of museums, galleries, and cultural and heritage visitor attractions.
The Portsmouth Museums retail team won the award for its refit in May 2024 ahead of the 80th anniversary of D-Day, in a tough category which included The National Gallery and National Football Museum.
Judges from the awards said: “A remarkable turnaround achieved on a shoestring budget and in record time. This small but mighty team combined creativity, smart merchandising, and huge enthusiasm to deliver impressive profits and a sustained return on investment!”
Cllr Steve Pitt, Leader of Portsmouth City Council City Council said:
“The changes to the shop took place against the backdrop of one of the busiest years ever of the museums history as the world commemorated the 80th anniversary of D-Day. The project was completed at a minimal cost and against a tight deadline. Congratulations to all involved.”
Bernard Donoghue OBE, Director of the Leading Association of Visitor Attractions said: “The judges were hugely impressed with so many aspects of this award-winning shop transformation – the ambition, the buy-in from all of the team, the speed of the transition, the commitment and passion of everyone who played a role in this transformation and, ultimately, the huge success of a brilliant retail space. Everyone involved should be very proud of what has been achieved and other museums – big and small – should look and learn!”
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government Non-Ministerial Departments
Press release
UK House Price Index for March 2025
The UK HPI shows house price changes for England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
The March data shows:
on average, house prices have risen 1.1% since February 2025
there has been an annual price rise of 6.4% which makes the average property in the UK valued at £271,000
England
In England, the March Data shows on average, house prices rose by 1.3% since February 2025. The annual price rise of 6.7% takes the average property value to £296,000.
The North East experienced the most significant monthly increase with a movement of 4.2%
London saw the greatest monthly price fall, with a fall of -0.3%
The North East experienced the greatest annual price rise, up by 14.3%
London saw the lowest annual price growth, with a rise of 0.8%
The regional data for England indicates that:
Price change by region for England
Region
Average price March 2025
Annual change % since March 2024
Monthly change % since February 2025
East Midlands
£244,000
7.1
0.7
East of England
£344,000
6.5
1.4
London
£552,000
0.8
-0.3
North East
£168,000
14.3
4.2
North West
£217,000
9.4
2.5
South East
£386,000
5.3
0.7
South West
£311,000
5.3
0.7
West Midlands
£250,000
7.8
1.2
Yorkshire and the Humber
£211,000
9.5
2.0
Repossession sales by volume for England
The lowest number of repossession sales in January 2025 was in the South West.
The highest number of repossession sales in January 2025 was in the North East.
Repossession sales
January 2025
East Midlands
6
East of England
5
London
15
North East
20
North West
11
South East
12
South West
1
West Midlands
6
Yorkshire and the Humber
14
England
90
Average price by property type for England
Property type
March 2025
March 2024
Difference %
Detached
£471,000
£448,000
5
Semi-detached
£291,000
£268,000
8.5
Terraced
£247,000
£228,000
8.4
Flat/maisonette
£231,000
£222,000
3.9
All
£296,000
£277,000
6.7
Funding and buyer status for England
Transaction type
Average price March 2025
Annual price change % since March 2024
Monthly price change % since January 2025
Cash
£282,000
6
1.2
Mortgage
£301,000
7.1
1.3
First-time buyer
£250,000
7.7
1.9
Former owner occupier
£356,000
5.6
0.5
Building status for England
Building status*
Average price January 2025
Annual price change % since January 2024
Monthly price change % since December 2025
New build
£416,000
17.4
-1.1
Existing resold property
£285,000
3.6
*Figures for the 2 most recent months are not being published because there are not enough new build transactions to give a meaningful result.
London
London shows, on average, house prices decreased by 0.3% since Jan 2025. House prices have shown an annual price increase of 0.8% meaning the average price of a property is £552,000.
Average price by property type for London
Property type
March 2025
March 2024
Difference %
Detached
£1,097,000
£1,099,000
-0.3
Semi-detached
£694,000
£669,000
3.7
Terraced
£620,000
£606,000
2.2
Flat/maisonette
£444,000
£447,000
-0.7
All
£552,000
£547,000
0.8
Funding and buyer status for London
Transaction type
Average price March 2025
Annual price change % since March 2024
Monthly price change % since February 2025
Cash
£583,000
-2.1
-0.7
Mortgage
£546,000
1.7
-0.2
First-time buyer
£477,000
1.4
0.5
Former owner occupier
£677,000
-0.1
-1.6
Building status for London
Building status*
Average price January 2025
Annual price change % since January 2024
Monthly price change % since December 2024
New build
£564,000
11.9
-0.7
Existing resold property
£561,000
1.5
1.2
*Figures for the 2 most recent months are not being published because there are not enough new build transactions to give a meaningful result.
Wales
Wales shows, on average, house prices fell by 0.2% since February 2025. An annual price increase of 3.6% takes the average property value to £208,000
There were 3 repossession sales for Wales in January 2025.
Average price by property type for Wales
Property type
March 2025
March 2024
Difference %
Detached
£321,000
£318,000
0.9
Semi-detached
£208,000
£198,000
4.9
Terraced
£166,000
£158,000
4.9
Flat/maisonette
£133,000
£129,000
3.1
All
£208,000
£201,000
3.6
Funding and buyer status for Wales
Transaction type
Average price March 2025%
Annual price change % since March 2024
Monthly price change % since December 2024
Cash
£208,000
2.7
0.3
Mortgage
£208,000
4.1
0.2
First-time buyer
£180,000
4.6
0.6
Former owner occupier
£247,000
2.4
-0.3
Building status for Wales
Building status*
Average price January 2025
Annual price change % since January 2024
Monthly price change % since December 2024
New build
£355,000
19.9
-0.5
Existing resold property
£206,000
4.9
0.9
*Figures for the 2 most recent months are not being published because there are not enough new build transactions to give a meaningful result.
UK house prices
UK house prices rose by 6.4% in the year to March 2025, up from the revised estimate of 5.5% in the 12 months to Feb 2025. On a non-seasonally adjusted basis, average house prices in the UK increased by 1.1% between February 2025 and March 2025, compared with a increase 0.2% from the same period 12 months ago (February 24 and March 2024).
The UK Property Transactions Statistics showed that in March 2025, on a seasonally adjusted basis, the estimated number of transactions of residential properties with a value of £40,000 or greater was 177,000. This is 104.3% higher than a year ago (March 2025). Between February 2025 and March 25, UK transactions increased by 61.7% on a seasonally adjusted basis.
House price monthly increase was highest in The North East where prices increased by 4.2% in the year to March 2025. The highest annual growth was in the The North East, where prices increased by 14.3% in the year to March 2025.
The UK HPI is based on completed housing transactions. Typically, a house purchase can take 6 to 8 weeks to reach completion. As with other indicators in the housing market, which typically fluctuate from month to month, it is important not to put too much weight on one month’s set of house price data.
We publish the UK House Price Index (HPI) on the second or third Wednesday of each month with Northern Ireland figures updated quarterly. We will publish the April 2025 UK HPI at 9:30am on Wednesday 18 June 2025. See calendar of release dates.
We have made some changes to improve the accuracy of the UK HPI. We are not publishing average price and percentage change for new builds and existing resold property as done previously because there are not currently enough new build transactions to provide a reliable result. This means that in this month’s UK HPI reports, new builds and existing resold property are reported in line with the sales volumes currently available.
The UK HPI revision period has been extended to 13 months, following a review of the revision policy (see calculating the UK HPI section 4.4). This ensures the data used is more comprehensive.
Sales volume data is available by property status (new build and existing property) and funding status (cash and mortgage) in our downloadable data tables. Transactions that require us to create a new register, such as new builds, are more complex and require more time to process. Read revisions to the UK HPI data.
Revision tables are available for England and Wales within the downloadable data in CSV format. See about the UK HPI for more information.
HM Land Registry, Registers of Scotland, Land & Property Services/Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency and the Valuation Office Agency supply data for the UK HPI.
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) and Land & Property Services/Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency calculate the UK HPI. It applies a hedonic regression model that uses the various sources of data on property price, including HM Land Registry’s Price Paid Dataset, and attributes to produce estimates of the change in house prices each month. Find out more about the methodology used from the ONS and Northern Ireland Statistics & Research Agency.
We take the UK Property Transaction statistics from the HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) monthly estimates of the number of residential and non-residential property transactions in the UK and its constituent countries. The number of property transactions in the UK is highly seasonal, with more activity in the summer months and less in the winter. This regular annual pattern can sometimes mask the underlying movements and trends in the data series. HMRC presents the UK aggregate transaction figures on a seasonally adjusted basis. We make adjustments for both the time of year and the construction of the calendar, including corrections for the position of Easter and the number of trading days in a particular month.
UK HPI seasonally adjusted series are calculated at regional and national levels only. See data tables.
The first estimate for new build average price (April 2016 report) was based on a small sample which can cause volatility. A three-month moving average has been applied to the latest estimate to remove some of this volatility.
The UK HPI reflects the final transaction price for sales of residential property. Using the geometric mean, it covers purchases at market value for owner-occupation and buy-to-let, excluding those purchases not at market value (such as re-mortgages), where the ‘price’ represents a valuation.
HM Land Registry provides information on residential property transactions for England and Wales, collected as part of the official registration process for properties that are sold for full market value.
The HM Land Registry dataset contains the sale price of the property, the date when the sale was completed, full address details, the type of property (detached, semi-detached, terraced or flat), if it is a newly built property or an established residential building and a variable to indicate if the property has been purchased as a financed transaction (using a mortgage) or as a non-financed transaction (cash purchase).
Repossession sales data is based on the number of transactions lodged with HM Land Registry by lenders exercising their power of sale.
For England, we show repossession sales volume recorded by government office region. For Wales, we provide repossession sales volume for the number of repossession sales.
Repossession sales data is available from April 2016 in CSV format. Find out more information about repossession sales.
We publish CSV files of the raw and cleansed aggregated data every month for England, Scotland and Wales. We publish Northern Ireland data on a quarterly basis. They are available for free use and re-use under the Open Government Licence.
HM Land Registry is a government department created in 1862. Its vision is: “A world-leading property market as part of a thriving economy and a sustainable future.”
HM Land Registry’s purpose is: “We protect your land ownership and provide services and data that underpin an efficient and informed property market.”
HM Land Registry safeguards land and property ownership valued at £8 trillion, enabling over £1 trillion worth of personal and commercial lending to be secured against property across England and Wales. The Land Register contains more than 26.5 million titles showing evidence of ownership for more than 89% of the land mass of England and Wales.
Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –
On May 20, 2025, the Interfax Information Group published the results of the annual ranking study of universities implementing educational programs in the field of training “State and Municipal Administration”. The State University of Management took 10th place in the ranking.
In addition to state accreditation of the relevant educational programs and their implementation in full-time form at the bachelor’s and master’s levels, universities had to publish at least 10 articles on social sciences in journals on the list of the Higher Attestation Commission over the past three years, and the graduation for each program in 2024 had to be at least five people.
The assessment was carried out based on 10 indicators, summarized into a single 1000-point scale.
The State University of Management has moved up two positions compared to last year.
Congratulations to the Department of Public and Municipal Administration of the State University of Management on the excellent result!
The rating can be found on the Interfax website.
Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Source: State University Higher School of Economics – State University Higher School of Economics –
On May 17, the HSE Center of Cultures hosted the eleventh Oriental Crazy Day, organized by Faculty of World Economy and World Politics (FMEiMP) HSE. Anyone interested in the East, its culture and languages, as well as admission to HSE could become a guest. Students and teachers of the university prepared master classes, quizzes and competitions. And here you could also see K-pop dances and kabuki theater, hear oriental songs and poetry.
At the festival, everyone was able to immerse themselves in the diversity of Eastern culture. Guests learned the intricacies of Arabic, Japanese and Turkish calligraphy, told fortunes using the Book of Changes and Thai sticks, and made traditional Korean norigae pendants and aromatic bags. The program also included a master class in water painting using the famous Turkish ebru technique and Hawaiian dance lessons. In addition, as part of the festival, the OP “Oriental Studies“, where applicants learned about the requirements for applicants and the specifics of studying at HSE.
The festival ended with a bright concert with fiery dances in the K-pop style, oriental songs and poetry, as well as a performance by the Kabuki theater. “This is not the first, not the second, not even the tenth year that this huge festival has been held for those who love, know and study the East. What we see on stage today beckons and attracts in the East, and I hope that there will be even more people who want to discover this amazing world,” Anastasia Likhacheva, Dean of the Faculty of World Economy and World Politics at the National Research University Higher School of Economics, addressed the guests.
The guests shared their emotions and impressions of the holiday with the Vyshka.Glavnoe news service.
Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –
The IV All-Russian educational and scientific conference “IQ Project 2025” was held at the Higher School of Project Activity and Innovations in Industry of the Institute of Mechanical Engineering, Materials and Transport of SPbPU. This year, the conference broke its own records in the number of participants and expanded its geography. Representatives of SPbPU, NSU, LETI, RUT, MISiS, ISU, MFUA, SFU, KNITU, HSE, GUU, SPbGUP, KU, RUDN, Moscow Polytechnic University, OSU, GUAP took part in it.
For the first time, representatives of companies took part in the scientific part of the conference.
The guests and speakers of the first day of the conference were:
Gleb Subbotin (business analyst at Gazpromneft ITO); Oleg Suvorov (head of corporate clients at 1C:North-West); Dinara Kamolova (ambassador of the process approach); Oksana Murzaeva (head of project portfolio at Norilsk Nickel).
The day ended with a quiz, in which participants could demonstrate their erudition, compete and win prizes. A round table on the topic of “The Image of a 1C Specialist in the Eyes of Employers and Students” was also held.
On the second day of the conference, the speakers were Igor Vlasov (senior product manager at Yandex Technologies, previously Avito, Toyota, VW) and Marina Bolsunovskaya (head of the Industrial Stream Data Processing Systems laboratory).
Next, a plenary session was held, at which the best reports of the conference were presented:
Dinara Kamolova, “Application of quality management tools in the IT industry” Assistant of the Higher School of Psychology and Information Technologies Zhanna Burlutskaya, “Modeling multi-agent interactions in the process of conducting intonation activities in network associations of technology companies” Assistant of the Higher School of Psychology and Information Technologies Kapiton Pospelov, “Method for assessing the limited rationality of agents in the problems of managing innovative projects” Assistant of the Higher School of Psychology and Information Technologies Salbek Beketov, “Algorithm for forming a portfolio of projects taking into account the optimal distribution of labor resources on individual projects”.
The day ended with presentations by participants in the conference sections.
The best reports in the sections this year were:
Section “Corporate Information Systems” — Natalia Ilyina, report “Personalization of the educational process in an inclusive school using an information and analytical system developed on the “1C:Enterprise 8.3” platform. Section “Mathematical models of decision-making” — Liya Khabibullina, report “Algorithm for calculating crews to fulfill an airline schedule, taking into account legislative restrictions”. Section “Product management and advanced practices in training management personnel” — Irina Romanova, report “Research of product backlog prioritization methods”. Section “Management in organizational systems” — Polina Sharko, report “Application of a multi-agent approach in managing decentralized organizational systems”. Section “Innovation management” — Gleb Subbotin, report “Integration of physically informed neural networks and hydrodynamic models to improve the accuracy of reservoir situation forecasting”. Section “Quality Management” — Artem Nigmatulin, report “The concept of a simulation model of inventory management processes at an enterprise in the field of electronics”. Section “Project Management and Project Activities” — Alexey Nikitin, report “From Risk to Opportunity: Managing Positive Risks in Project Activities”, and Vadim Bulushev, report “Multi-agent neural network approach to improving project content management processes in the company “UNISTORY.LLC”.
All abstracts of reports that have passed the review will be published in a collection indexed in the Russian Science Citation Index. The best ones will be recommended for publication in VAK journals.
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.
Shifts in global trade policy lead to sharp increase in uncertainty, causing large spikes in financial market volatility
Stretched valuations and low non-bank liquidity buffers leave financial markets vulnerable to further shocks
Escalating trade tensions could adversely affect euro area firms and households, entailing credit risk for banks and non-banks
Government finances may be negatively impacted by increased defence spending, although boost to growth cannot be excluded
A marked spike in uncertainty across global trade, defence, international cooperation and regulation policies could prove challenging for financial stability, according to the May 2025 Financial Stability Review, published today by the European Central Bank (ECB). Frequent shifts and reversals in tariff policy, alongside significant changes in the geopolitical environment, could have major economic and financial impacts. While global macroeconomic imbalances remain a long-standing issue in the policy debate, it is not clear that tariffs are the best-placed policy instrument to address them.
“Rising trade frictions and related downside risks to economic growth are weighing on the outlook for financial stability”, said ECB Vice-President Luis de Guindos.
The significant increase in trade policy uncertainty and trade frictions triggered large spikes in financial market volatility and raised the risk of an economic slowdown.
Financial markets across the globe sold off at an unsettling speed in early April, and financial conditions tightened notably. While risky assets had fully recovered their initial losses by mid-May, markets are still highly sensitive to tariff-related news. Equity markets in particular remain vulnerable to sudden and sharp adjustments as valuations are still high and concerns over risk concentrations persist. In an environment of heightened market volatility, euro area non-banks’ liquidity and leverage weaknesses could be revealed, amplifying market shocks.
Euro area firms and households have seen their balance sheets improve in recent years, but trade tensions and a weaker growth outlook imply future headwinds. The euro area is a very open economy, and trade frictions will affect those companies that rely on foreign trade, with potential knock-on effects for households if trade-related corporate vulnerabilities are exposed and result in lay-offs. In such an environment, credit risk exposure may rise for euro area banks and non-banks, although banks’ ability to absorb further asset quality deterioration should be supported by strong profitability and sizeable capital and liquidity buffers.
While sovereign debt-to-GDP ratios in the euro area have declined considerably after surging during the pandemic, fiscal fundamentals remain fragile in some countries. Plans to increase defence spending have the potential to boost economic growth if focused on productive investment, but could also pose risks given higher issuance needs at a time of rising funding costs. This higher defence spending, together with weaker growth and other structural challenges, such as those posed by climate change, digitalisation and ageing populations, could compound the already strained fiscal positions of some euro area governments.
In the current highly uncertain macro-financial and policy environment, preserving and strengthening the resilience of the financial system is key. In this context, macroprudential authorities should maintain existing capital buffer requirements and borrower-based measures to ensure sound lending standards. In addition, the growing market footprint and interconnectedness of non-banks calls for a comprehensive set of policy measures that will increase the resilience of the non-bank financial intermediation sector. Such resilience across the sector would also help to advance the integration of euro area capital markets.
For media queries, please contactEttore Fanciulli, tel.: +49 69 1344 95012.
Work to refurbish several Derby Parks play areas has been completed. The improved facilities in Arboretum Park, Brunswood Park and Bramble Brook Recreation Ground are now open for families to enjoy, while the play area at Alvaston Park is due to open in time for half term.
Designs for the revamped play areas were shaped by feedback received during community consultations. The aim of the projects was to enhance accessibility and inclusivity, improve safety, offer more engaging play opportunities, and enhance the overall appearance of the sites.
At Arboretum Park, an extensive upgrade has seen the majority of the old equipment removed to make way for a vibrant space designed for children of all abilities. The exciting new features include a variety of swings, a wheelchair-accessible seesaw and roundabout, a trampoline, engaging multi-play units, a zip wire, musical and sensory play equipment, a sensory footpath, and even a stage area for budding performers.
Alvaston Park’s play area has also undergone a complete transformation and will be ready to welcome families later this week, subject to final safety checks. Almost all the old equipment has been replaced with new attractions, including space-themed multi-play units, swings, an inclusive seesaw, a wheelchair-accessible roundabout and trampoline, a zip wire, moon buggy, and various interactive play panels. A standout feature is the Titan swing, a circular swing with five different ‘seats’, promoting collaborative play.
In Spondon, the community will benefit from a new accessible and inclusive play area at Brunswood Park. The thoughtfully-designed space features a toddler and a junior multi-play unit, swings, an inclusive roundabout, play panels, nature-inspired sculptures, and a zip wire.
The play area at Bramble Brook Recreation Ground
Over in Mickleover, Bramble Brook play area has also received an upgrade. Key improvements include the installation of new inclusive play equipment, new safety fencing and surfacing, new accessible seating, new signage, plus the refurbishment of the embankment slide and paths.
The projects have been funded through a combination of the Council’s Parks Capital Programme Fund, Section 106 funding (developer contributions), with Arboretum also receiving National Lottery Awards for All Funding.
Councillor Ndukwe Onuoha, Derby City Council Cabinet Member for Streetpride, Community Safety and Leisure, said:
Our Derby Parks team has worked closely with parks’ Friends groups to create play areas that meet the needs of our communities, and we’d like to that them for their support and hard work.
These newly refurbished play areas represent a significant investment in the well-being and enjoyment of our children and families, providing inclusive and engaging spaces for outdoor recreation. We’d encourage people to visit the parks and experience the fantastic new facilities.
Derby Parks team is now seeking feedback from the community on proposed improvements at Willowcroft Road Recreation Ground, Spondon, which will be funded by Section 106 developer contributions. To give your views, fill out the online survey. For more information or a paper copy, please email parks@derby.gov.uk or call 01332 640789. The consultation closes at noon on Thursday 12 June 2025.
Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –
Digital platform “Moschino” has been visited 2.5 million times since its launch in the fall of 2023. There, film industry representatives can apply for filming approval, select suitable locations and props, and city residents and tourists can sign up for excursions and master classes, learn about creative meetings and other events. This was reported by Natalia Sergunina, Deputy Mayor of Moscow.
“The platform has already attracted 800 thousand unique users. It is in demand not only among industry professionals and students of specialized universities, but also among everyone interested in cinema,” said Natalia Sergunina.
More than half of the views are on the page dedicated to family and friends at the Moskino cinema park. It contains a schedule of immersive performances, exhibitions, introductory walks and other events. For example, one of the excursions, the Cinema Expedition, includes a visit to the sets of the Ivan the Great Bell Tower and the Terem Palace of the Moscow Kremlin, a real Tu-154 aircraft and the largest chromakey in Europe.
Filmmakers especially enjoy the section with descriptions of almost 700 city filming locations and a booking service. Among them are streets, parks, squares, train stations, cultural institutions, estates, pavilions of the Gorky Film Studio, the Moskino film factory and other places.
Experts can use a catalogue of 60 thousand props, including modern and historical costumes, furniture, props, equipment and other items from different eras.
The service also has a section for those who want to build a career in the industry. It presents programs of specialized educational institutions and courses for actors, scriptwriters, editors, cameramen and other specialists in this field.
The capital pays great attention to the development of the industry within the framework of the Mayor’s project “Moscow – the city of cinema”. The structure of the Moscow film cluster already includes enter Gorky Film Studio (locations on Sergei Eisenstein Street and Valdai Passage), a chain of cinemas, a film park and the Moskino film factory.
The Moskino film commission helps organize filming in the city. Since the beginning of the year, it has received more than a thousand applications – 53 percent more than a year ago. One of the most popular filming locations is the Moskino cinema park. In just three months, 15 projects were implemented here.
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.
Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect
Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –
The city has concluded more than 30 lease agreements with entrepreneurs for buildings and premises under the “1 ruble per square meter per year” program for opening private educational organizations. This was reported by the Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Urban Development Policy and Construction Vladimir Efimov.
“The program “1 ruble per square meter per year” for opening kindergartens and schools has been in effect in the capital since 2013. At present, 31 real estate lease agreements with a total area of 44.3 thousand square meters have been concluded with investors. Thanks to the program, 24 private educational institutions are already operating in the capital. Entrepreneurs occupy 36.1 thousand square meters of space at a preferential rate, which allows them to save over 600 million rubles annually,” said Vladimir Efimov.
Under the program “1 ruble per square meter per year” for educational facilities, the city puts up buildings and premises in different areas of the capital for specialized auctions. The winner is determined by the highest rent price that he is willing to pay during the renovation and preparation for the opening of the institution. After restoration work and fulfillment of all requirements of the capital Department of Education and Science The tenant can switch to a preferential rate of one ruble per square meter per year. The total term of the lease agreement is 49 years.
“At seven sites with a total area of over 8.2 thousand square meters, entrepreneurs continue preparatory work to open private educational institutions. They will appear in the north, northwest, southeast of Moscow, as well as in the Novomoskovsky administrative district. Since the beginning of 2025 alone, two buildings have been transferred to the winners of the tenders – this is almost 1.8 thousand square meters. In Shcherbinka, it is planned to open a school for 150 students, and in the Voykovsky district – a kindergarten for 30 pupils,” she noted.
Ekaterina Solovieva, Minister of the Moscow Government, Head of the Moscow Department of City Property.
According to the head of the capital’s Department of Competition Policy Kirill Purtov, the demand for city premises for opening educational institutions under the preferential program is confirmed by statistics. In 2024, the average competition at auctions for the right to lease such facilities was five participants per lot.
More information about current offers from the city, including preferential programs, is published onMoscow investment portal. To participate in the auction, you will need to register on the electronic trading platform. “RoselTorg” and enhanced qualified electronic signature.
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.
Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
The organizers of the 27th Shanghai International Film Festival (SIFF) unveiled posters, jury lineup and select highlights for the upcoming festival at a press conference in Beijing on May 20.
Organizers brief media at a press conference for the 27th Shanghai International Film Festival (SIFF) and the 30th Shanghai TV Festival (STVF), Beijing, May 20, 2025. [Photo courtesy of SIFF Organizing Committee]
Pan Min, director of the Shanghai Film Bureau, announced that renowned Italian director Giuseppe Tornatore will lead the jury for the main competition of the Golden Goblet Awards. Joining him are Argentine screenwriter-director Iván Fund, Chinese actor-director Huang Bo, Greek producer Thanassis Karathanos, Indian filmmaker Kiran Rao, Chinese director Yang Lina and Chinese actress Yong Mei.
Pan revealed that the Golden Goblet Awards this year received a record 3,900-plus film submissions from 119 countries and regions across five competition categories. Submissions included over 2,800 competition entries, with notable growth from the Americas and Africa, as well as an 18% rise in short film submissions.
As an internationally influential film festival, SIFF has long been a prominent platform for showcasing Chinese-language cinema and a vital arena for promotion and distribution. Approximately 60 Chinese films, including competition nominees, new releases and beloved classics, will be featured this year.
A promotional image showing Golden Goblet Awards jury members for the 27th Shanghai International Film Festival. [Photo courtesy of SIFF Organizing Committee]
This year’s SIFF has refined its screening sections to broaden its perspectives, Pan said. For example, the new “Master Duo” format will honor two film masters together, while the Asia Now section will highlight regional cinema with a “Filmmaker in Focus” program. Other additions include the “UK Focus” program in the Contemporary World Cinema section and “Amplify” under the Spectrum section for outstanding genre films worldwide.
The festival’s Film Panorama screening schedule will be announced June 3, with tickets going on sale on June 5 through major ticketing platforms Damai and Taopiaopiao. The opening film, “She’s Got No Name,” directed by Peter Chan, will have a special citywide screening after the opening ceremony on the evening of June 14 at more than 100 cinemas across Shanghai. The day before the press conference, a selection of the films to be screened during the festival were revealed, including IMAX showings of “Michael Jackson’s This Is It,” “Becoming Led Zeppelin,” “The Brutalist” and “Nosferatu.”
Running June 13-22, this year’s SIFF marks both the 130th anniversary of world cinema and 120th anniversary of Chinese cinema. The opening session, themed “Era of Splendor: Dreams Ignite New Journeys,” celebrates Chinese cinema’s achievements over the past 120 years while inspiring new creative journeys. The Film Panorama will feature a special section titled “Resonance: A Brief Encounter of Chinese and World Cinema,” showcasing iconic global films to highlight cinematic exchange between China and the wider world.
Building on the success of the Belt and Road Film Festival Alliance initiated by SIFF, this year’s Belt and Road Film Week will incorporate forums and other events. Selected films recommended by alliance members will also be screened across the Yangtze River Delta, with Nanjing, Suzhou, Hangzhou, Ningbo and Hefei joining Shanghai in showcasing these works.
A poster for the opening film “She’s Got No Name” directed by Peter Chan. [Photo courtesy of SIFF Organizing Committee]
Organizers noted that 2025 also marks several significant diplomatic anniversaries — 50 years of China-EU relations, 55 years of China-Italy ties and 50 years of China-Thailand relations — bringing increased European and Southeast Asian film engagement through exhibitions, screenings and co-productions. The Film Panorama will host an Italian Film Week, showcasing over 20 Italian cinematic classics across nearly 100 screenings, from “Rome, Open City” to “Cinema Paradiso.”
The festival continues to develop its “6+1” tiered talent nurturing framework. The fourth SIFF Young adds producer roles, while SIFF Project’s new Genre Films category attracted more than 530 submissions. The upgraded SIFF ING focuses on new technologies and formats, featuring special tracks for AIGC and vertical-screen formats to support emerging talent, attracting more than 3,600 submissions. For the first time in 21 years, the Asian New Talent Awards will be officially combined with the Golden Goblet Awards.
Four official posters inspired by Shanghai’s architecture and culture for the 27th Shanghai International Film Festival. [Photo courtesy of SIFF Organizing Committee]
SIFF, under the guidance of China Film Administration and co-hosted by China Media Group (CMG) and the Shanghai Municipal Government, will organize 10 to 12 SIFForum sessions and two to four MasterClass sessions. These will cover technological innovation, international cooperation, literary adaptations and IP commercialization, with the aim of exploring new pathways for Chinese cinema’s high-quality development.
In addition, the film festival will be followed by the 30th Shanghai TV Festival (STVF) running from June 23-27, organized by the National Radio and Television Administration, CMG, and the Shanghai Municipal People’s Government. Events include an Ultra HD productions showcase, thematic forums, and a joint International Film & TV Market with SIFF. The International TV Showcase will feature award-winning global programs, while a BBC partnership will commemorate the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen’s birth. The festival’s prestigious Magnolia Awards will honor top productions, having received nearly 1,000 entries from 43 countries and regions, including submissions from the BBC, Sony, HBO, Warner Bros. and Disney.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
News story
Margaret Flynn reappointed as Chair of the National Mental Capacity Forum
The Secretaries of State for Justice and for Health and Social Care have approved the reappointment of Dr Margaret Flynn as Chair of the National Mental Capacity Forum.
The Secretaries of State for Justice and for Health and Social Care have approved the reappointment of Dr Margaret Flynn as Chair of the National Mental Capacity Forum (NMCF) for 3 years from 7 March 2025.
The NMCF was established by the Ministry of Justice and the Department of Health and Social Care in 2015, in response to the 2014 House of Lords Select Committee post-legislative scrutiny report of the Mental Capacity Act 2005 (MCA).
The NMCF aims to raise awareness of the MCA and improve its implementation by joining up stakeholders from a wide range of sectors where the MCA applies, such as health and social care, banking, legal and third sector organisations.
The Chair of the NMCF is appointed by the Secretaries of State for Justice and for Health and Social Care. Appointments are regulated by the Commissioner for Public Appointments.
Dr Margaret Flynn biography
Since 2019, Dr Flynn has been a Trustee of Anheddau Cyf, a not-for-profit charity supporting adults with learning disabilities, autism and mental health challenges across North Wales. She has been a Director of Flynn and Eley Associates Ltd since 2009 and has held various editorial roles for the Journal of Adult Protection since 1999.
Dr Flynn has chaired and written several reviews concerning people with compromised mental capacity, in particular a review into Winterbourne View Hospital during 2011. In 2013, she was commissioned by the First Minister of Wales to undertake a review of the neglect of older people living in care homes investigated as Operation Jasmine. More recently, Dr Flynn chaired Wales’ inaugural National Independent Safeguarding Board and wrote the review concerning Cawston Park Hospital. She is currently coordinating research activities for TIDE (together in dementia everyday) and is supporting its contributions to the SPIN Dementia Network (Sustainable Prevention, Innovation and involvement).
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Press release
First MHRA Board meeting held in Scotland, underlining agency’s commitment to regional health equality and growth
The meeting, which took place at the Royal College of Surgeons in Edinburgh, centred on the MHRA’s commitment to delivering the agency’s priorities in Scotland
From left: Greig Chalmers, Prof. Anthony Harnden, Alison Strath and Lawrence Tallon
The Board of the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has met in Scotland for the first time ever, reinforcing the agency’s commitment to delivering its health and innovation priorities across the UK.
The meeting took place at the Royal College of Surgeons in Edinburgh, which is the oldest surgical college in the world.
Alongside the MHRA’s new CEO Lawrence Tallon, MHRA Chair Professor Anthony Harnden and the board members, the meeting was attended by a number of important Scottish representatives from healthcare and government, including Chief Pharmaceutical Officer Alison Strath and Head of the Chief Medical Officer’s Policy Division Greig Chalmers.
The discussions centred on the MHRA’s commitment to delivering the agency’s priorities in Scotland and served as an opportunity for the MHRA to listen to the experiences and ideas of those in attendance.
Tour of the Institute of Regeneration and Repair with hosts and Usher Institute staff
The MHRA Board was one of several engagements between leading MHRA officials and Scottish representatives across the country as part of the trip, including with the Director of the University of Edinburgh’s Usher Institute Professor Cathie Sudlow, NHS Lothian Research and Development Director Professor Alasdair Gray, and officials from DataLoch and Research Data Scotland.
MHRA Chair, Professor Anthony Harnden, said:
This isn’t just a change of location — it’s a meaningful step in our commitment to being a truly national regulator.
The MHRA’s work serves the whole of the UK, and that means we must spend time in every part of it, listening, learning, and building partnerships rooted in mutual respect and shared ambition.
MHRA Chief Executive, Lawrence Tallon, said:
It is absolutely vital that the voices of all four nations and regional partners are involved in discussions about the MHRA’s strategic direction.
Strong regional and national engagement helps ensure that the work the MHRA does to protect public health, drive innovation and boost growth serves not just England but the whole of the UK.
This isn’t a ‘one-off’, it’s a step change. I look forward to meeting other regional partners in due course.
The board meeting fell on International Clinical Trials Day and is another example of how the MHRA is driving forward innovation and growth throughout the UK.
Notes to editors:
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is responsible for regulating all medicines and medical devices in the UK by ensuring they work and are acceptably safe. All our work is underpinned by robust and fact-based judgements to ensure that the benefits justify any risks.
The MHRA is an executive agency of the Department of Health and Social Care.
Not for distribution, directly or indirectly, in or into the United States or any jurisdiction in which such distribution would be unlawful.
[SPIE SA]
Pre-stabilisation Period Announcement
BNP Paribas (contact: Stanford Hartman telephone: 0207 595 8222 hereby gives notice, as Stabilisation Coordinator, that the Stabilisation Manager(s) named below may stabilise the offer of the following securities in accordance with Commission Delegated Regulation EU/2016/1052 under the Market Abuse Regulation (EU/596/2014).
Stabilisation period expected to end no later than:
27/06/25
Existence, maximum size and conditions of use of over‑allotment facility:
The Stabilisation Manager(s) may over‑allot the securities to the extent permitted in accordance with applicable law.
Stabilisation trading venue:
OTC
In connection with the offer of the above securities, the Stabilisation Manager(s) may over‑allot the securities or effect transactions with a view to supporting the market price of the securities during the stabilisation period at a level higher than that which might otherwise prevail. However, stabilisation may not necessarily occur and any stabilisation action, if begun, may cease at any time. Any stabilisation action or over‑allotment shall be conducted in accordance with all applicable laws and rules.
This announcement is for information purposes only and does not constitute an invitation or offer to underwrite, subscribe for or otherwise acquire or dispose of any securities of the Issuer in any jurisdiction.
This announcement and the offer of the securities to which it relates are only addressed to and directed at persons outside the United Kingdom and persons in the United Kingdom who have professional experience in matters related to investments or who are high net worth persons within Article 12(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 and must not be acted on or relied on by other persons in the United Kingdom.
In addition, if and to the extent that this announcement is communicated in, or the offer of the securities to which it relates is made in, the UK or any EEA Member State before the publication of a prospectus in relation to the securities which has been approved by the competent authority in the UK or that Member State in accordance with Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 (the “Prospectus Regulation”) (or which has been approved by a competent authority in another Member State and notified to the competent authority in the UK or that Member State in accordance with the Prospectus Regulation), this announcement and the offer are only addressed to and directed at persons in the UK or that Member State who are qualified investors within the meaning of the Prospectus Regulation (or who are other persons to whom the offer may lawfully be addressed) and must not be acted on or relied on by other persons in the UK or that Member State.
This announcement is not an offer of securities for sale into the United States. The securities have not been, and will not be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933 and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an exemption from registration. There will be no public offer of securities in the United States.
Source: United Kingdom UK Parliament (video statements)
Watch PMQs with British Sign Language (BSL) – https://youtube.com/live/tTf8vqNJCjY
Prime Minister’s Question Time, also referred to as PMQs, takes place every Wednesday the House of Commons sits. It gives MPs the chance to put questions to the Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer MP, or a nominated minister.
In most cases, the session starts with a routine ‘open question’ from an MP about the Prime Minister’s engagements. MPs can then ask supplementary questions on any subject, often one of current political significance.
The Leader of the Opposition, Kemi Badenoch MP, asks six questions and the leader of the second largest opposition party asks two. If another minister takes the place of the Prime Minister, opposition parties will usually nominate a shadow minister to ask the questions.
Want to find out more about what’s happening in the House of Commons this week? Follow the House of Commons on:
Source: United Kingdom UK Parliament (video statements)
Prime Minister’s Question Time, also referred to as PMQs, takes place every Wednesday the House of Commons sits. It gives MPs the chance to put questions to the Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer MP, or a nominated minister.
In most cases, the session starts with a routine ‘open question’ from an MP about the Prime Minister’s engagements. MPs can then ask supplementary questions on any subject, often one of current political significance.
The Leader of the Opposition, Kemi Badenoch MP, asks six questions and the leader of the second largest opposition party asks two. If another minister takes the place of the Prime Minister, opposition parties will usually nominate a shadow minister to ask the questions.
Want to find out more about what’s happening in the House of Commons this week? Follow the House of Commons on:
The EU will fund 15 renewable hydrogen production projects in 5 European countries to produce more than 2 million tonnes of renewable hydrogen over 10 years. They will help decrease the use of fossil fuels on our continent, increase the EU’s energy independence and create jobs.
Residents across Sunderland are being urged to act responsibly and never place batteries or battery-operated devices in their household waste or recycling bins, following a recent fire suspected to have been caused by a damaged battery.
At the end of April, a blaze broke out at Campground Waste Transfer Station in Wrekenton (a facility operated by the South Tyne and Wear Waste Management Partnership), believed to have been started by a battery discarded incorrectly. The fire smouldered before igniting but was fortunately spotted early and extinguished before it spread. However, this incident highlights the very real danger these items can pose.
Batteries and electrical items containing batteries pose a significant fire risk when placed in general waste or mixed recycling. When damaged, crushed or punctured, as can easily happen during collection or processing, batteries can ignite fires that spread rapidly, putting lives, vehicles, and infrastructure at risk.
It’s not just loose batteries that are a danger. Many small domestic appliances and everyday electronics have batteries that are difficult to remove, such as:
Electronic cigarettes and vaping devices
Mobile phones
Laptops and tablets
Power tools
Electronic toys and solar powered items such as garden lights and decorations
Councillor Maria Hall, Chair of the South Tyne and Wear Waste Management Partnership, said:
“Batteries can ignite at any stage of the waste process, including on our refuse vehicles, or at waste or recycling facilities. Once alight, they burn incredibly fiercely and are difficult and dangerous to extinguish. Fires put lives at risk, including those of our hard-working waste collection teams, and can cause devastating damage to vital infrastructure.
The solution is simple: never put batteries or battery-powered items in your household bins. Recycle them responsibly at designated points in places that sell new batteries, including supermarkets, DIY stores, local retailers, or your local Household Waste Recycling Centre (HWRC).
It doesn’t matter whether it’s a single-use AA battery or a sealed lithium-ion battery in a vape – all can cause fires.”
From gnomes galore at Abbey House Museum to Woolfest at Leeds Industrial Museum – check out our highlighted free and low-cost things to do in Leeds with your family over the May half term break.
Gnomes Galore at Abbey House Museum Help! The museum’s cheeky gnomes have escaped and are hiding all over the Victorian Streets, grab a trail sheet and see who you can find! Be sure to come and join the mischief and also take part in craft activities inspired by our cheeky friends. Saturday 24 May to Sunday 1 June, cost: included in admission Find out more: Gnomes Galore at Abbey House Museum
Kirkstall Abbey Scarecrow Festival Explore the historic ruins of Kirkstall Abbey whilst looking for fun scarecrows during the Scarecrow Festival! You might find a Hungry Caterpillar in the Kitchen, a ladybird in the library or a horse in the hospital! Wander through the park and woodlands and take a leisurely stroll beside the River Aire whilst learning about the historic Abbey. Saturday 24 May to Sunday 1 June, cost: included in admission Find out more: Kirkstall Abbey Scarecrow Festival
Love Your Zoo Week at Lotherton Take part in Love Your Zoo Week at Lotherton and celebrate all the animals in Wildlife World. Follow the ‘amazing animals’ trail, hop on board their famous tractor trailer for a deer park tour, get crafty in the House and find out more about the wildlife in the zoo. Saturday 24 May to Sunday 1 June, cost: included in admission (crafts and tractor tour are additional costs) Find out more: Love Your Zoo Week at Lotherton
Find Your Happy at Temple Newsam House In the big house you will find crafts and activities all inspired by the theme of happiness. Families will be able to enjoy joyful crafts, dreamy dressing up, not so tricky trails and more! There is also a brand new exhibition by Leeds Fine Artists which is on display in different rooms throughout the house. See if you can spot the newest paintings and objects on display and how the artists have been inspired by the country house. Saturday 24 May to Sunday 1 June, cost: included in admission Find out more: Find Your Happy at Temple Newsam House
Love Your Zoo Week at Tropical World Celebrate Love Your Zoo Week by visiting Tropical World and meeting their new sulcata tortoises. Take part in Tank’s Tortoise Trail, experience keeper talks, take part in craft activities, and treat yourself to a tasty snack in the café. Saturday 24 May to Sunday 1 June, cost: included in admission Find out more: Love Your Zoo Week at Tropical World
Half term at Kirkgate Market Visit Kirkgate Market over half term to experience pop-up events and free family activities including giant games, colouring, Lego crafts, and Duplo building. Saturday 24 May to Friday 30 May, cost: free Find out more: Half term at Kirkgate Market
Half term at the Royal Armouries Museum Over half term, the Royal Armouries Museum will be shining a light on the Second World War – with live presentations, battle stories and weapon talks. And experience their new display, Objects in Focus, which marks the 80th anniversaries of Victory in Europe (VE) Day and Victory in Japan (VJ) Day. Saturday 24 May to Sunday 1 June, 10am to 5pm, cost: free Find out more: Half term at the Royal Armouries
Miffy Crafts at Leeds City Museum Delve into the world of Miffy books and create your own bold, colourful Miffy artwork. Come to the museum for Miffy-themed arts and crafts during the half term. There’ll also be finger puppets and Miffy ears for little bunnies to decorate. Activities are suitable for all ages, designed for families to have a go together. Tuesday 27, Wednesday 28, and Thursday 29 May, 10am to 12pm and 1pm to 3pm, cost: free Find out more: Miffy Crafts at Leeds City Museum
These Are My Rocks with Bethan Woollvin at Leeds Libraries Do you collect anything? Everyone collects something! Join award-winning author/illustrator Bethan Woollvin at one of our libraries for an exciting workshop based on her brand-new picture book These Are My Rocks, which is all about the joy of collecting things. Tuesday 27 May to Friday 30 May (locations and times vary), cost: pay what you decide Find out more: These Are My Rocks with Bethan Woollvin
Turn Back the Clock at Leeds Discovery Centre In this family workshop, come and take a closer look at some of the amazing clocks in the discovery centre’s collection and have a go at making your own wall clock to take home. Wednesday 28 May, 10am to 12pm and 1pm to 3pm, cost: give what you can – bookings required via the website Find out more: Turn Back the Clock at Leeds Discovery Centre
Woolfest at Leeds Industrial Museum Celebrate the wonder of wool with craft stalls, workshops, live demonstrations, a pop-up tea room and loads more – the city’s original festival of wool is back with a bang in 2025! We have it all from packed out crafting markets to expert demonstrations, talks, performances, tea room pop-ups and loads more. Whether you’re a natty knitter or crackers about crochet, it’s a great day out for all ages. Saturday 31 May, 10am to 5pm, cost: £5 for adults, £2.90 for children Find out more: Woolfest at Leeds Industrial Museum
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Crowds gathered at the Hokkaido booth during the 34th Harbin International Economic and Trade Fair, drawn by live demonstrations of handcrafted rice balls and an array of regional delicacies from the northern Japanese prefecture.
“This year, 14 Hokkaido-based enterprises are showcasing 36 specialty products, with 12 companies and 34 products making their debut at the fair,” said Takayuki Kano, Vice Governor of Hokkaido, expressing hopes that the event would help Hokkaido businesses secure local distributors and expand their footprint across China.
Held in Harbin, capital of northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province, this year’s fair, which concluded on Wednesday, attracted over 1,500 enterprises from 38 countries and regions, including the United States, Japan and Switzerland, alongside participants from 23 Chinese provinces, autonomous regions and municipalities.
During the fair, foreign officials and corporate representatives highlighted Heilongjiang’s growing appeal as an investment destination and pledged to deepen their engagement with the Chinese market.
Jonathan Pauwels, director of product development and branding for agricultural equipment manufacturer Case IH’s Asia-Pacific division, spoke about his company’s more-than-two-decade journey in the region.
“We established our first factory in Harbin as early as 1999 and set up an agricultural machinery product development and research center in 2013. Over the past decade, we have continuously invested approximately 1 billion yuan (about 139 million U.S. dollars) in Heilongjiang to promote smart manufacturing. Now, many of our new agricultural machinery products have been introduced to the entire Chinese market,” he said.
With 40 global production facilities and 49 R&D centers, Case IH plans to expand its investments in Heilongjiang over the next five years by localizing components, developing advanced combine harvesters, and expanding exports from its Harbin base, according to Pauwels.
Cao Jingheng, senior vice president of Nestle Greater China, attributed the renewed confidence of foreign companies to Heilongjiang’s “revitalization through opening up” strategy. The province’s fertile black soil, premium dairy pastures, and business-friendly policies prompted Nestle to establish its first Chinese mainland factory in Harbin’s Shuangcheng district in 1987. To date, the Swiss conglomerate has invested 3 billion yuan in the province, supporting 33,000 dairy households and creating 10,000 jobs.
“China is now Nestle’s second-largest global market. We look forward to further strengthening our cooperation with Heilongjiang by introducing Swiss technologies and managerial experience, while bringing more premium local products to international markets,” Cao said.
The fair also attracted new entrants like Canadian athletic apparel brand Lululemon. Since opening its first store in Heilongjiang in 2022, sales have surged, according to Kang Tai, the company’s general manager of government affairs.
“We are confident about our development in Heilongjiang and plan to expand our presence and collaborate with the province to promote winter sports development,” Kang said.
Ren Hongbin, chairman of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade, emphasized China’s enduring appeal to global investors, adding that the fair and the concurrent events serve as a vital platform for international businesses to explore opportunities in Heilongjiang and beyond.
The recommendations are out from the final European Citizens’ Panel on the new EU long-term budget. After debate, 150 EU citizens concluded that the new European budget should focus on the environment, economic success, equal access to healthcare, renewable energy and AI, among other issues.
Singing In The Halls, organised by Wolverhampton Music Service, saw children from primary and special schools perform at the iconic venue, led by Paul Wilcox and accompanied by a 14 piece Music Service band.
Councillor Jacqui Coogan, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education, said: “Being able to sing at the city’s biggest performance venue, University of Wolverhampton at The Halls, was a fantastic opportunity for the pupils, and it was great to see so many schools and performers being a part of this very special occasion.
“Children and teachers spent a lot of time practising their songs in school ready to give their best performances on the big stage, and it is sure to be a day that will live long in the memory of everyone involved.”
She added: “Music has the power to inspire, uplift and unite, and through these concerts our Music Service is aiming to foster a sense of community and creativity among young performers, and to inspire them to begin their own musical journeys.”
To see more pictures from the performances, please visit Flickr.
The Music Service will return to the big stage in July, when 16 groups of young musicians will perform at the Wulfrun Hall at University of Wolverhampton at The Halls, thanks to a £10,000 donation from the Friends of Wolverhampton Music Service.
Wolverhampton Music Service provides high quality tuition and musical opportunities for youngsters from schools across the city, including the chance to perform with its flagship groups, Wolverhampton Youth Orchestra and Wolverhampton Youth Wind Orchestra. To find out more, please visit Wolverhampton Music Service.
Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –
On May 20, 2025, the rector of the State University of Management Vladimir Stroyev took part in the session “Strategic planning and management of science: normative dimension”, which was held as part of the XIII St. Petersburg International Legal Forum.
Also participating in the discussion were First Deputy Chairman of the Supreme Court of the Russian Federation Petr Serkov, State Secretary – Deputy Minister of Agriculture of the Russian Federation Maxim Uvaidov, representatives of scientific and higher educational institutions. The meeting was moderated by Deputy Head of the Presidential Administration for Scientific and Educational Policy Elena Nechaeva.
The first issue of the meeting was an assessment of the prospects for eliminating barriers to the implementation of research and development results. The rector of the State University of Management noted that for research to be effective, it is important to involve industrial partners in the formation of the scientific agenda and R&D plan in the interests of specific customers, as well as the digitalization of research processes and the introduction of digital platforms for automated reporting.
Speaking about the practice of conducting research in universities, Vladimir Stroyev spoke about the innovations being implemented at the State University of Management in the scientific sphere and the educational process, which are aimed at solving the problem of achieving technological sovereignty of the country and training personnel for specific industrial partners.
“Over the past few years, there have been significant changes within the country, including in science and education, as well as in the attitude of business towards interaction with educational organizations. If earlier entrepreneurs preferred to order scientific developments abroad or from private companies, and to select employees directly on the labor market, today they have a different approach. Every week we have one or two meetings with representatives of different levels of business regarding personnel training, scientific and applied developments, which are often associated with the need to repair foreign equipment, develop analogs of parts and other reverse engineering tasks, which our specialists are engaged in,” the rector of the State University of Management noted.
Vladimir Vitalyevich also emphasized the importance of interaction between universities, which could be facilitated by digital platforms for collaboration. As an example, the rector cited the Design Bureau of the State University of Management, which, thanks to network interaction with design bureaus of other universities, fulfills orders for large corporations.
Vladimir Stroev named project-based learning, which is successfully implemented at the State University of Management, as another opportunity to unite employers and universities to train the necessary specialists.
“For three years now, 100% of our students have been participating in project activities, starting from their first year. That is, they are divided into groups and spend 1 day a week developing a project provided by a partner company, under the supervision of a representative of this organization. This is both professional practice and practicing soft skills. Moreover, these projects are posted on a special platform, where they are also purchased. As a result, students not only receive practical skills and a portfolio, but also have a completed project and their first income,” the rector shared.
In conclusion of his speech, Vladimir Stroyev recalled that the State University of Management was an engineering and economics university until the 1990s and for most of its history trained engineering personnel, something it is returning to today.
Elena Nechaeva noted that she is ready to come to the State University of Management in the near future “for a more detailed discussion of the practice of university science, because the personnel aspects of the development of science and technology are the foundation of foundations.”
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Press Release Nokia sole company recognized as a Champion, Market Momentum Leader in Omdia’s 2025 Private 5G Market Radar report
Nokia private wireless portfolio, edge AI capabilities, segment blueprints, and global partner ecosystem recognized for accelerating Industry 4.0 transformation.
21 May 2025 Espoo, Finland – Nokia today announced that it is the sole company recognized as a Champion and a Market Momentum Leader in Omdia’s Market Radar: E2E Private 5G Networks Vendors – 2025. The report highlights Nokia’s 5G Private Wireless vision, strong product portfolio, and continued investment in mission-critical connectivity solutions tailored for industrial enterprises in multiple verticals, including manufacturing, mining, ports, airports, utilities, public safety, and railways.
Omdia’s Private 5G Market Radar report provides comprehensive analyses of the private 5G vendor landscape, while discussing partnerships, market trends, and strategic insights. According to Omdia, the Market Leader category represents leading vendors that provide advanced capabilities across six areas explored and which Omdia believes is worthy of a place on most technology selection shortlists. Nokia was the only vendor cited as a Champion in the report for “jump starting the market to exploring opportunities in the mission-critical edge where the connectivity at OT world are merging.”
At a time when private wireless networks have become essential for industries seeking secure, reliable, and high-performance connectivity to support their digital transformation, Nokia’s leadership in the sector is recognized for being the first company to identify the private networks opportunity and engage with the ecosystem to drive market adoption, having already deployed 890 private 4G and 5G networks worldwide as of Q1 2025.
Omdia highlights Nokia’s evolving its private wireless solutions beyond connectivity to an edge compute and AI platform for industries, verticalized solutions built on years of research, testing, and validation through segment blueprints, as well as a rich ecosystem of applications and partners such as Kyndryl, Telefonica Tech and Verizon.
“Nokia’s continued leadership in the private 5G market is underpinned by its comprehensive and forward-looking approach to industrial connectivity. By offering an integrated platform that benefits an array of industries, Nokia is setting the pace for Industry 4.0 transformation,” said Pablo Tomasi, Principal Analyst, Private Networks and Enterprise 5G at Omdia.
“Omdia’s recognition reflects our commitment to delivering robust, scalable, and intelligent networks that meet the demanding needs of industrial environments. From our MX Industrial Edge platform to our vertical blueprints, Nokia is helping enterprises accelerate their digital transformation journeys,” said Raghav Sahgal, President of Cloud and Network Services at Nokia.
Nokia’s portfolio supports both campus and wide-area networks, including private wireless solutions such as Nokia Digital Automation Cloud (DAC), Modular Private Wireless (MPW), and Core Enterprise Solutions. It also features patented innovations like MX Industrial Edge (MXIE), Nokia MX Boost, and AI-powered solutions including Nokia MX Grid, MX Workmate, Visual Position and Object Detection (VPOD), and MX Context.
Some of Nokia’s most notable private network customer references include Southern California Edison, British Sugar, Husky Terminals, Sociedad Portuaria Puerto Bahia, Butachimie, Lufthansa Technik, Dow Chemical, Chevron Phillips Chemical, Hola Oulu Hospital, and Carrix.
About Nokia At Nokia, we create technology that helps the world act together.
As a B2B technology innovation leader, we are pioneering networks that sense, think and act by leveraging our work across mobile, fixed and cloud networks. In addition, we create value with intellectual property and long-term research, led by the award-winning Nokia Bell Labs, which is celebrating 100 years of innovation.
With truly open architectures that seamlessly integrate into any ecosystem, our high-performance networks create new opportunities for monetization and scale. Service providers, enterprises and partners worldwide trust Nokia to deliver secure, reliable and sustainable networks today – and work with us to create the digital services and applications of the future.
About Omdia Omdia, part of Informa TechTarget, Inc. (Nasdaq: TTGT), is a global analyst and advisory leader that helps you connect the dots across the technology ecosystem. Now joined by Canalys, Enterprise Strategy Group and Wards Intelligence, our deep knowledge of tech markets combined with our actionable insights empower organizations to make smart growth decisions.
New Caledonia and French Polynesia have sent strong delegations this week to the United Nations Pacific regional seminar on the implementation of the Fourth International Decade for the Eradication of Colonialism in Timor-Leste.
The seminar opened in Dili today and ends on Friday.
As French Pacific non-self-governing territories, the two Pacific possessions will brief the UN on recent developments at the event, which is themed “Pathways to a sustainable future — advancing socioeconomic and cultural development of the Non-Self-Governing Territories”.
New Caledonia and French Polynesia are both in the UN’s list of non-self-governing territories to be decolonised, respectively since 1986 and 2013.
Nouméa-based French Ambassador for the Pacific Véronique Roger-Lacan is also attending.
After the Dili meeting this week, the UN’s Fourth Commission is holding its formal meeting in New York in July and again in October in the margins of the UN General Assembly.
As New Caledonia marks the first anniversary this month of the civil unrest that killed 14 people and caused material damage to the tune of 2.2 billion euros last year (NZ$4.1 billion), the French Pacific territory’s political parties have been engaged for the past four months in political talks with France to define New Caledonia’s political future.
However, the talks have not yet managed to produce a consensual way forward between pro-France and pro-independence groups.
French Minister for Overseas Manuel Valls, at the end of the most recent session on May 8, put a project of “sovereignty with France” on the table which was met by strong opposition by the pro-France Loyalists (anti-independence) camp.
This year again, parties and groups from around the political spectrum are planning to travel to Dili to plead their respective cases.
New Caledonia territorial President Alcide Ponga . . . pro-France groups have become more aware of the need for them to be more vocal and present at regional and international fora. Image: Media pool/RNZ Pacific
Topping the list is New Caledonia’s government President Alcide Ponga, who chairs the pro-France Rassemblement party and came to power in January 2025.
Other represented institutions include New Caledonia’s customary (traditional) Senate, a kind of Great Council of Chiefs, which also sends participants to ensure the voice of indigenous Kanak people is heard.
Over the past two years, pro-France groups have become more aware of the need for them to be more vocal and present at regional and international fora.
French Polynesia back on the UN list since 2013 In French Polynesia, the pro-independence ruling Tavini Huiraatira party commemorated the 12th anniversary of re-inscription to the UN list of territories to be decolonised on 17 May 2013.
This week, Tavini also sent a strong delegation to Timor-Leste, which includes territorial Assembly President Antony Géros.
However, the pro-France parties, locally known as “pro-autonomy”, also want to ensure their views are taken into account.
One of them is Moerani Frébault, one of French Polynesia’s representatives at the French National Assembly.
“Contrary to what the pro-independence people are saying, we’re not dominated by the French Republic,” he told local media at a news conference at the weekend.
Frébault said the pro-autonomy parties now want to invite a UN delegation to French Polynesia “so they can see for themselves that we have all the tools we need for our development.
“This is the message we want to get across”.
Pro-autonomy Tapura Party leaders Tepuaraurii Teriitahi (from left), Edouard Fritch and Moerani Frébault, at a press conference in Papeete last week . . . . “We want to counter those who allege that the whole of [French] Polynesians are sharing this aspiration for independence.” Image: Radio 1/RNZ Pacific
Territorial Assembly member Tepuaraurii Teriitahi, from the pro-autonomy Tapura Huiraatira party, is also travelling to Dili.
“The majority of (French) Polynesians is not pro-independence. So when we travel to this kind of seminar, it is because we want to counter those who allege that the whole of (French) Polynesians is sharing this aspiration for independence,” she said.
‘Constitution of a Federated Republic of Ma’ohi Nui’ On the pro-independence side in Pape’ete, the official line is that it wants Paris to at least engage in talks with French Polynesia to “open the subject of decolonisation”.
For the same purpose, the Tavini Party, in April 2025, officially presented a draft for what could become a “Constitution of a Federated Republic of Ma’ohi Nui”.
The document is sometimes described as drawing inspirations from France and the United States, but is not yet regarded as fully matured.
Earlier this month, French Polynesia’s President Moetai Brotherson was in Paris for a series of meetings with several members of the French cabinet, including Minister for Overseas Manuel Valls and French Foreign Affairs Minister Yannick Neuder.
Valls is currently contemplating visiting French Polynesia early in July.
Brotherson came to power in May 2023. Since being elected to the top post, he has stressed that independence — although it remained a longterm goal — was not an immediate priority.
He also said many times that he wished relations with France to evolve, especially on the decolonisation.
“I think we should put those 10 years of misunderstanding, of denial of dialogue behind us,” he said.
In October 2023, for the first time since French Polynesia was re-inscribed on the UN list, France made representations at the UN Special Political and Decolonisation Committee (Fourth Committee), ending a 10-year empty chair hiatus .
But the message delivered by the French Ambassador to the UN, Nicolas De Rivière, was unambiguous.
He said French Polynesia “has no place” on the UN list of non-autonomous territories because “French Polynesia’s history is not the history of New Caledonia”.
He also voiced France’s wish to have French Polynesia withdrawn from the UN list.
The UN list of non-self-governing territories currently includes 17 territories worldwide and six of those are located in the Pacific — American Samoa, Guam, French Polynesia, New Caledonia, Pitcairn Islands and Tokelau.
This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.
Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –
The main period of the Main State Examination (OGE) has begun in the capital. It will last from May 21 to July 2.
“This year, about 120 thousand Muscovites will take the OGE during the main period. 622 exam centers have been organized for them in the capital,” the press service reported.
On May 21 and 22, schoolchildren will take exams in foreign languages: English, French, German and Spanish. About 24 thousand people have registered for these subjects. The results of the first exams will be known no later than May 26. You can find them out in your personal account on mos.ru or at school.
On May 26, ninth-graders will take the OGE in social science, biology, chemistry and computer science, on May 29 – in geography, history, physics and chemistry. On June 3, there will be an exam in mathematics, and on June 6 – in social science, computer science and geography. The OGE in Russian is scheduled for June 9. On June 16, there will be exams in literature, physics, biology and computer science. From June 26 to July 2 – reserve days.
This year, the federal law on expanding the availability of secondary vocational education is being implemented in the capital. As part of the innovations, ninth-graders entering colleges can only take two mandatory exams – in Russian and mathematics. Those moving to the 10th grade are still required to pass four OGEs: two mandatory and two optional. Participants with disabilities can only take mandatory subjects.
The most popular elective subjects were social science (more than 34 thousand people), computer science (more than 33 thousand people) and English (more than 23 thousand people).
Students can use the materials to prepare for exams. “Moscow Electronic School”, where almost 18 thousand lesson scenarios, over 12 thousand video lessons and more than 33 thousand tests are published.
The additional period of the OGE will be held from September 2 to 23. The current schedule and detailed information are posted on the website Regional Information Processing Center (RCOI) of the city of Moscow. Questions regarding the final certification can be asked by calling the RCOI: 7 499 653-94-50.
Conducting preparatory activities for the successful passing of the final essay and state exams by schoolchildren not only helps students achieve high results in tests, but also contributes to the development of children’s talents and the formation of skills that will be useful to them in their future profession, and corresponds to the objectives of the project “All the best for children” of the national project “Youth and Children”.
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Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –
In Tsaritsyno, the construction of another residential complex under the renovation program has been completed. Its total area is more than 28 thousand square meters. This was reported by the Minister of the Moscow Government, the head of the capital’s Department of Urban Development Policy Vladislav Ovchinsky.
The residential complex of five sections is located at the address: Yerevanskaya Street, Building 4, Block 2.
“The new building includes 253 apartments with finished, improved finishing. Their total area exceeds 14 thousand square meters. The residential complex was built with a barrier-free environment in mind. The entrances have wide passages, vestibules and elevator halls are located on the same level, without high steps. In the courtyard, pedestrian paths are designed so that both parents with strollers and citizens with disabilities can move comfortably. In addition, the new building has two apartments for people with disabilities: the width of the corridors and doorways has been increased, and special handrails are provided in the bathrooms,” said Vladislav Ovchinsky.
For the convenience of residents, elevators have been installed in the entrances, rooms for concierges and storage rooms for strollers and bicycles have been provided. Trees and bushes have been planted near the house, lawns and flower beds have been laid out, lanterns have been installed and video surveillance cameras have been installed. The courtyard has also been equipped with areas for active recreation and sports.
“Mosgosstroynadzor supervised the construction of the building on Yerevanskaya Street at all stages – the Committee’s inspectors conducted 11 on-site inspections. Based on the results of the final event, a conclusion was issued on the building’s compliance with the approved project,” the Chairman of Mosgosstroynadzor noted.
The new building was erected in an area with developed urban and transport infrastructure. Nearby are the Tsaritsyno and Kantemirovskaya metro stations, the Tsaritsyno station of the second Moscow Central Diameter, as well as shops, educational institutions and healthcare facilities.
Earlier Sergei Sobyanin examined new house under the renovation program in Pokrovskoe-Streshnevo.
The renovation program was approved in August 2017. It concerns about a million Muscovites and provides for the resettlement of 5,176 houses. Earlier, Sergei Sobyanin ordered to increasethe pace of implementation of the renovation program has doubled.
Moscow is one of the leaders among regions in terms of construction volumes. High rates of housing construction correspond to the goals and initiatives of the national project “Infrastructure for life”.
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Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
CHANGCHUN, May 21 (Xinhua) — Early in the morning, Maria Zaitseva, a tourist from Vladivostok, arrived in China through the Hunchun border crossing, once again setting off on her familiar and favorite journey.
Arriving in Hunchun City, Jilin Province, she headed straight to the mall, took out her shopping list from her bag, and started shopping. Electronics, seasonal clothing, daily necessities… the wide range of products to choose from and the friendly service of the salespeople delighted her.
The city of Hunchun /Jilin Province, Northeast China/ is located at the junction of the state borders of China, Russia and the DPRK. In recent years, Hunchun has attracted more and more Russian tourists due to its convenient location, simplified entry rules and a variety of services.
“As far as I know, the hashtag ChinaTravel /travel to China/ is very popular now and I noticed that such a trend as ChinaShopping /shopping in China/ has begun to attract the attention of our compatriots. Hunchun is our very first and convenient stop for a shopping tour in China,” said Maria.
In Hunchun, many road signs and signboards are duplicated in Russian, and some stores accept payments in rubles, making shopping easier for Russian tourists.
“Good quality and good price!” Maria commented on a pair of Chinese-made sunglasses she bought in Hunchun. “After the discount, the glasses cost less than 300 yuan,” she added.
At the request of her friends, Maria is also ready to buy several Chinese-made power banks. “I heard that a new, smaller and more fashionable battery has appeared, and my friend asked me to buy one,” she said.
Like Maria, many Russian tourists plan to buy Chinese-made goods, especially those essentials that combine fashionable design and affordable prices.
Li Wenlong, the owner of an eyeglass shop in Hunchun, communicates fluently in Russian with Russian customers.
“Myopia glasses, reading glasses, sunglasses – we can receive hundreds of Russian tourists a day,” Li Wenlong said, noting that “we often put frames on the shelves that are suitable for European-type appearance, particularly for Russians, as well as popular frame shapes that they like.”
“My feeling about shopping in China is that there is a lot of choice and it is very convenient,” said Svetlana Kapitsyna, a Russian who has lived in Hunchun for a long time. She has become accustomed to paying for purchases using her mobile phone.
“You can pay by scanning or touching, and it’s very safe and secure,” Svetlana said.
In recent years, the cross-border e-commerce sector in Hunchun has developed rapidly, and many Russian tourists can buy Chinese goods through e-commerce platforms.
Song Xueyan, manager of Yutong International Travel Agency in Hunchun, said many Russian tourists place orders on Chinese e-commerce platforms in advance and arrange for the purchased goods to be delivered by mail to the hotels in Hunchun where they will be staying, or ask Chinese friends to help them pick them up.
According to customs data, by the end of 2024, 667 thousand people crossed the state border through the Hunchun checkpoint.
“With China’s continuous optimization of visa-free entry, transportation, payment and VAT refund policies when leaving the country, the popularity of ChinaShopping is rapidly growing, especially in border cities such as Hunchun,” Li Wenlong said.
“As tour operators, we will continue to improve the quality of our services, closely monitor market demand and constantly improve our business models to provide Russian tourists with a more convenient, diverse and safe shopping experience,” he added. -0-