Category: Europe

MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Liverpool film studio scores BAFTA albert win

Source: City of Liverpool

Last updated:15 April 2025

A Liverpool studio’s aim to be one of the UK’s greenest has been rewarded with a prestigious rating from the UK film industry.

The Depot, which has hosted numerous award-nominated TV productions, has been named as a ‘Very Good’ BAFTA Albert sustainable studio.

The new accolade makes The Depot one of the leading net zero studios of its kind in the country in delivering its carbon-cutting commitments.

Owned by Liverpool City Council and managed by the Film Office, The Depot first opened its doors in 2021 and since then has welcomed productions such as This City Is Ours, The Gathering and Sexy Beast.

A total of 31 studios participated in this round of the BAFTA Albert Studio Sustainability Standard where The Depot was awarded a rating of ‘Very Good’ with a score of 80% – compared to an average score of 77%.

Areas in which the studio excelled were 100% LED studio lighting, providing the service of renewable generators, the sustainability policy, as well as access to green biodiverse space.

Suggestions for improvements include installing EV charging ports, looking at the feasibility of renewable energy generation and increasing the recycling rate.

Launched in 2022, the BAFTA Albert Studio Sustainability Standard is the world’s first sustainability assessment designed to help measure and reduce the environmental impact of film and TV studios by focusing on six key areas: Climate, Circularity, Nature, People, Management and Data.

Each studio submits data annually under the areas highlighted to then receive a performance report as well as a grade so that benchmarking work can be done to continue to make improvements and compare other studios across the world.

This award comes after Liverpool was announced as the world’s first UN Accelerator City for climate action, which recognises the city’s commitment to trial new ways to decarbonise the music and film production sectors.

For more information about the Film Office, and to watch the 35^th anniversary celebratory showreel, head to the official website.

Leader of Liverpool City Council, Councillor Liam Robinson, said:
“This is fantastic news for the city and for film and TV productions who choose Liverpool as their place to shoot their stories for screen.

“Not only have we achieved a ‘Very Good’ rating but The Depot is leading the way for film and TV studios in the North, proving that if you want to shoot sustainable productions, Liverpool is the very best place to do this.

“This news follows our announcement last year about our ‘plug and play’ zones across key filming and TV sites in the city centre and is yet another important step towards the city’s net-zero future.”

Head of Liverpool Film Office, Lynn Saunders, said:
“We’re thrilled to receive the rating of ‘Very Good’ and so proud that we’ve achieved this award in the first time in entering.

“We’re dedicated to building on the success of filming in the Liverpool City Region by creating a sustainable screen eco system, bettering not only our skills programme but the way we work with productions when they come to our region to film.

“By having this award, we will be able to track our progress and continue to make meaningful improvements to The Depot to better the environment for generations to come.”

Mayor of the Liverpool City Region Steve Rotheram said:
“We’re proud to be leading the charge in building a cleaner, greener economy right here in the Liverpool City Region – and with The Depot becoming a ‘Very Good’ BAFTA Albert sustainable studio it shows we’re not just talking the talk, we’re walking the walk.

“It’s brilliant to get this kind of recognition. Every step we take to build sustainability into our everyday lives leads to bigger shift – and it’s those changes that’ll help us hit our ambitious target of becoming net zero by 2035. That’s a decade ahead of the government – and proof that when we set ourselves targets, we deliver.”

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

April 15, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Gladiators – ready! Pedal through history and ride Roman Leicester

Source: City of Leicester

TRANSFORM your bike into a mighty chariot, dress in your finest Roman tunics or battle armour and join in the pedal-powered fun for a Roman bike parade during the Easter holidays!

On Saturday 26 April, families are invited to join in a free bike ride being held by Ride Leicester as part of the Old Town Festival.

Starting from Leicester Cathedral Gardens at 12pm, the easygoing, one-mile ride will loop around the city centre and is suitable for riders of all ages and abilities.

And the day before, on Friday 25 April, visit the community hub in the Haymarket shopping centre to join a free workshop where you can transform your bike helmet into a bold Centurion design!

Janet Hudson, transport development officer at Leicester City Council, said: “Everyone is welcome on our colourful, noisy bike parade to celebrate the Old Town Festival. Our rickshaws will be transformed into Roman chariots for the occasion, and we’re really looking forward to seeing how people incorporate the Roman theme into the bikes or their outfits!

“Whether or not you choose to dress up, all are welcome on our ride, which will tour the free activities going on at the Old Town festival. A legendary cycling adventure awaits!”

Assistant city mayor for transport and environment, Cllr Geoff Whittle, said: “These bike parades are fast becoming a popular fixture of our festivals, with the last ones at Light Up Leicester proving to be a real hit.

“They’re a great way for families to cycle together and see just how easy it can be to get around by bike. We’re very pleased to be supporting Ride Leicester with a regular programme of social bike rides.”

Sign up for the bike parade here: https://letsride.co.uk/rides/roman-festival-bike-parade

Find out more about the Old Town festival here: https://www.visitleicester.info/whats-on/old-town-festival-p709811

ENDS

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

April 15, 2025
MIL-OSI: Hasan Ismaik Opens Strategic Investment Opportunity in Germany’s Historic TSV 1860 Munich

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates, April 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Billionaire businessman and Chairman of HAMIC Group, Hasan Abdullah Ismaik, has announced that he is currently reviewing multiple acquisition offers for his stake in TSV 1860 Munich, one of Germany’s most iconic football clubs. The move marks a significant strategic opportunity for global investors seeking to be part of a legacy brand with strong cultural roots and untapped growth potential.

Founded over 165 years ago, TSV 1860 Munich holds a celebrated place in German football history, having won the Bundesliga championship in 1966. The club is deeply embedded in the spirit of the city of Munich and enjoys a wide and loyal fan base, with its distinctive blue representing more than just sport—it represents identity, pride, and tradition.

In an exclusive interview with Germany’s ARD TV channel, Ismaik stated:
“We have received several compelling offers from investors who recognize the unique potential of 1860 Munich. We are currently evaluating the best option to ensure the club’s long-term growth and global positioning.”

Ismaik emphasized the club’s solid foundation and remarkable capacity for expansion, noting that with a strategic investment of €300 million, TSV 1860 Munich has the potential to exceed a €2 billion market valuation in the near future.

This development follows over a decade of successful stewardship under Ismaik, whose early investment in 2011 helped stabilize the club financially. His involvement has safeguarded its heritage and positioned it for a new era of ambitious transformation.

In closing, Ismaik shared a powerful message of optimism:
“We know that lions rest for long periods—but the time has come to awaken them.”

Visit our website: www.HAMIC.com

For more information, please contact:

PR@hamic.com

+971582913443

Follow us on https://www.instagram.com/hamicgroup/

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6ac6ea67-ca0e-427b-8847-d2cbc7f90b0b

The MIL Network –

April 15, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Dozens attend Reverse Jobs Fair

Source: City of Wolverhampton

It took place at the Black Country Living Museum to mark National Supported Internships Day and was facilitated by the council’s specialist Supported Employment team.

Unlike a traditional jobs fair where employers host the stands, the Reverse Jobs Fair saw dozens of jobseekers showcase their skills to employers from across the West Midlands, with some being offered roles on the spot.

Councillor Chris Burden, Cabinet Member for City Development, Jobs and Skills, said: “As a council, we are determined to support people into paid employment, and events like this Reverse Jobs Fair are a fantastic way in which we can provide a platform for jobseekers with additional needs to show off their talents to potential employees.

“I am delighted that so many were able to either secure employment or get help and advice to further their work opportunities as a result of taking part in this wonderful event.”

Among those taking part was Alyssa Dunn from Tettenhall Wood School. She said: “I spoke to several people, one of whom offered me a chance to do some volunteer work. I’d just like to thank everyone for giving me the chance to go to the fair and I hope it’ll be the first of many.”

Statistics show that only 21.1% of the UK population with autism are in paid employment, as are just 5.4% of people with learning disabilities or autism who are known to social care.

The Supported Employment team can support anyone aged 16 to 67 with a learning disability or autism, providing employment opportunities and offering in work support via a Job Coach who will provide help and guidance to the jobseeker and agree reasonable adjustments with the employer.

People aged 16 to 24 who have an Education, Health and Care Plan can also consider a Supported Internship provided by Adult Education Wolverhampton and the City of Wolverhampton College. Learners will spend 70% of their course on placement preparing for employment with the opportunity of paid employment following completion of the course.

To find out more about the help available from the Supported Employment team please call 01902 554411 or email supportedemployment@wolverhampton.gov.uk.

April is World Autism Acceptance Month. The Wolverhampton Autism Board website, includes information about autism, upcoming events, parent/guardian workshops, support groups for autistic individuals and professionals working with autistic people, community opportunities, information about Wolverhampton Autism Board and links to online resources and strategies.

To find out more please visit World Autism Acceptance Month.

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

April 15, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Greens call for more workers to have a permanent four day week

Source: Scottish Greens

15 Apr 2025 Economy

A four day week is better for workers rights.

More in Economy

The Easter Bank Holiday period underlines the many benefits of a four day work week, say the Scottish Greens.

The party’s workers’ rights spokesperson, Maggie Chapman MSP, has called for the UK and Scottish Governments to support companies and organisations who are considering trialling or introducing a four day week for workers.

The Scottish Greens have already adopted a four day working week for party and MSP office staff, with positive results. Better work-life balance, less stress, and more control over their lives are just some of the benefits that staff have reported. Better focus at work also means increased productivity.

Ms Chapman said:

“Every worker deserves to have a good work-life balance, and a four day week without loss of pay is a proven way of providing that.

“The Easter bank holidays will give workers all over the country more time to spend with their families, friends and loved ones, or simply to relax. That should be normal rather than being an exception.

“The path to a four day week will be different for every company and organisation. That’s why we want to see more trials across different sectors and are urging the Scottish and UK governments to offer more support for those making the change.

“Whenever workers’ rights have been extended there have been people telling us it is impossible or would result in a loss of productivity or profit.

“We heard this with the introduction of weekends, basic health and safety, and the minimum wage: the same voices told us they couldn’t be done, or they would be detrimental.

“I believe that people are so much more than just cogs in our economy, and that means we must ensure that work does not cause stress and harm to people. We already have longer work weeks than the European average.

“We should be transforming our relationship with work to support the health and wellbeing of our workforce. Because that will be good for them but also for those they work for: happy, healthy employees will be more productive than sick, stressed and frustrated workers.

“The impact of normalising a four day week could be transformative for workers’ rights and for building a fairer, greener and better future.”

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

April 15, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: Lithuanian National Radio and Television (LRT)

Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

Mission

The Lithuanian public broadcaster, Lithuanian Radio and Television (LRT), is the media group that is owned by the public. As a taxpayer-funded institution, LRT’s fundamental mission is to serve the public interest and the public’s right to trustworthy and objective information.

Lithuanian Radio and Television dates to 1926 when the first radio station started regular broadcasting from the then temporary capital of Lithuania, Kaunas. The television service has been broadcasting since 1957. Radio and television services are now operated from LRT’s headquarters in Vilnius.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

April 15, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: A new recreation and sports area has been equipped in Sokolniki Park

Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

The first “good neighborly area” appeared at the secondary entrance to Sokolniki Park. It is located at the intersection of Sokolnichesky Val Street and Mitkovskiy Proezd from the side of Shumkina Street. Its main task is to highlight the unsightly entrance to the park and provide vacationers with all the necessary services. The space is primarily aimed at residents of nearby neighborhoods, many of whom often come to the park and will be able to feel at home here, as if in their own yard. The events were held as part of the first stage of landscaping and rehabilitation work on the territory. This was reported by Vladimir Alyabyev, deputy head of the capital’s Department of Capital Repairs.

“A children’s playground of over 540 square meters was arranged on this site. To make the children’s game more diverse and interesting, geoplastic elements appeared on the site – artificial unevenness. A slide was mounted on them, and in them – tunnels for hide-and-seek and climbing. There is also a spinning carousel, a seesaw, and talking pipes. There are also interactive panels with optical illusions – this is not just one of the elements of the play area, but a good tool that stimulates cognitive processes, improves motor skills and promotes socialization. In addition, a canopy was installed here, under which there are glowing swings, benches in the shape of coins and suspended buoys for riding. The play area is designed for children aged from zero to nine years old,” said Vladimir Alyabyev.

The idea behind this playground is to combine different types of equipment: one similar to what is made by hand at the dacha, the other modern. They complement each other and allow for the creation of all sorts of scenarios for games and creativity. Since the playground is located under trees, its surface is made of moisture-permeable gravel material.

The “good neighborly area” also has a workout zone with an area of 181 square meters. It has a monkey bar, parallel bars, a climbing net, Pilates spheres, a mini-GTO complex with pull-up bars and a wall bars. This zone is also located under the trees, so its surface is made of gravel material that allows moisture and air to pass through.

In addition, paths were laid and lighting was installed in this area. Public pavilions with festive decorations will soon begin operating here.

As a result of the park renovation project, such “neighbourly areas” will appear at several secondary entrances.

The idea of decorating the pavilions in Sokolniki begins with the history of the park as a place for festive celebrations. A line of pavilion decorations has been formed: natural, festive light and festive. The main idea of the design is to evoke warm and happy associations in visitors, so that the pavilions are like beacons of joy and childhood and serve as landmarks in gloomy rainy weather. This is also served by glowing festive decorations: balloons, beads, stars.

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

https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/152619073/

MIL OSI Russia News –

April 15, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Sergei Sobyanin: Moscow taxi market has been fully legalized in 15 years

Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

In 15 years, the capital has managed to fully legalize the taxi market. Sergei Sobyanin spoke about how the passenger transportation service is developing in the city in his telegram channel.

“Today, almost 200 thousand work in Moscow and the Moscow region – the fleet has grown by 15 percent in the last year alone. The average age of the car is only 3.2 years. This is one of the youngest taxi fleets in Europe,” the Moscow Mayor wrote.

Source: Sergei Sobyanin’s Telegram channel @Mos_Sobyanin

In 2024, more than 632 million passengers used taxis. This is a record figure: daily passenger traffic reached 1.73 million people.

The last 15 years have seen the revival of Moscow taxis. Particular attention is paid to the quality of service and safety. Since 2024, the city has been certifying taxi drivers, and since March 1, 2025, it has become mandatory. All active drivers in the region have already passed the exam. This guarantees that a real professional who knows the city, follows traffic rules and understands what to do in an emergency will come to the passenger. In 2021, Moscow was the first in the country to introduce a comprehensive information system “Taxi Operation Analytics” (KIS “ART”) – thanks to it, today passengers can be sure that only conscientious specialists go out on the line.

From September 1, 2023, under the new law, taxi ordering services are responsible to passengers. They ensure that only qualified drivers are behind the wheel of the car. In addition, with the participation of city and federal agencies, preventive checks are carried out to identify illegal taxis – in late March and early April, they were carried out in the Southern Administrative District of the capital.

There is a platform for taxi service owners “Open Control”, where you can get free consultations and check your taxi fleet for compliance with mandatory requirements.

Moscow to Continue Updating Car Sharing and Taxi Fleets The Moscow Transport Museum has restored the GAZ-M20A Pobeda, the first post-war taxi

Since 2012, the city has been providing financial support to taxi companies. Thus, over 13 years, they have been compensated for part of the costs of purchasing more than 92 thousand cars. The total amount of subsidies was 2.49 billion rubles. The funds are allocated for the purchase of cars that meet the fifth or sixth environmental classes, as well as electric cars manufactured in Moscow (for them, an increasing coefficient of 2.5 applies). The new cars make passenger trips not only comfortable, but also safer.

In the future, there is a transition to environmentally friendly transport. It is planned that by 2030, about half of the taxi fleet will be electric vehicles – comfortable and having a lower impact on the environment.

“We see the result: since 2019, the number of accidents involving taxis has decreased by four percent. Our task is to develop a modern, safe and convenient service that meets international standards,” concluded Sergei Sobyanin.

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

https: //vv.mos.ru/mayor/tkhemes/12620050/

MIL OSI Russia News –

April 15, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: WFP welcomes a contribution from Finland to boost school meals programme in Zambia

Source: World Food Programme

LUSAKA – The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) welcomes a contribution of EUR 500,000 from the Government of Finland to strengthen Zambia’s national school meals programme. The one-year initiative will enhance the nutrition of over 34,000 learners in thirty-three schools across Zambia while promoting climate-resilient agriculture and sustainable food systems.

Finland, as the co-chair of the School Meals Coalition, is a strong and longstanding supporter of school meals globally. For years, Finland has provided continuous support to several WFP school meals operations and remains committed to strengthening these efforts.

With Finland’s support, and in collaboration with the Ministries of Education and Agriculture, WFP will procure ninety-eight metric tonnes of beans to complement cereals provided for school meals by the Zambian government. The initiative will directly link the demand for nutritious food in schools with supply from local smallholder farmers, creating a stable market for their produce. In addition, irrigated school gardens will be established to further improve the diversity and quality of school meals.

“Finland and Zambia share longstanding warm relations,” said Saana Halinen, Ambassador of Finland to Zambia. “School meals are an investment in the future of Zambia, and I am incredibly happy that Finnish support is complimenting the government’s efforts in expanding the school meals programme. Allocating resources to child nutrition is the single and most important investment any country can make.”

To further boost sustainability and resilience, schools will receive energy efficient stoves and handwashing stations, while teachers, learners, and surrounding communities will benefit from training in sustainable agriculture, nutrition, and hygiene practices.

“This support from Finland comes at a critical time for Zambia as we address the aftermath of last year’s drought, working closely with the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Agriculture” said Cissy Kabasuuga, WFP Country Representative in Zambia. “The funding will not only meet the immediate nutritional needs of thousands of learners but also help build a stronger, more resilient food system for the future.”

WFP, in partnership with the Government of Zambia launched a comprehensive five-year strategic plan in 2023 which seeks to eliminate hunger, improve nutrition, and strengthen the resilience of vulnerable communities to food shocks. The plan allows for national institutions to take the lead, reducing the need for humanitarian interventions.

Finland, as the co-chair of the School Meals Coalition, is a strong and longstanding supporter of school meals globally. For years, Finland has provided continuous support to several WFP school meals operations and remains committed to strengthening these efforts.

About WFP

The United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization, saving lives in emergencies, building prosperity and supporting a sustainable future for people recovering from conflict, disasters and the impact of climate change.

Follow us on X @wfp_media @WFP_Zambia, @wfp_southernafrica.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

April 15, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan to attend 15th BRICS Agriculture Ministers Meeting at Brasilia, Brazil

Source: Government of India

Union Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan to attend 15th BRICS Agriculture Ministers Meeting at Brasilia, Brazil

Shir Chouhan to hold bilateral meetings with Brazil Minister of Agriculture & Livestock Mr Carlos Henrique Baqueta Fávaro, Minister of Agrarian Development and Family Farming Mr Luiz Paulo Teixeira,

Theme of 15th BRICS Agricultural Ministerial Meeting is “Promoting Inclusive and Sustainable Agriculture through Cooperation, Innovation, and Equitable Trade among BRICS Countries”

Posted On: 15 APR 2025 10:54AM by PIB Delhi

Union Minister for Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, is leading the Indian delegation to the 15th BRICS Agriculture Ministers’ Meeting (AMM), scheduled to be held on 17th April, 2025 in Brasilia, Brazil. The theme of 15^th BRICS AMM is “Promoting Inclusive and Sustainable Agriculture through Cooperation, Innovation, and Equitable Trade among BRICS Countries”. Agriculture Ministers and senior officials from BRICS member countries, including Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, United Arab Emirates, Ethiopia, Indonesia, and Iran are expected to attend the Meeting.

During the visit, Shri Chouhan will hold bilateral meetings with key Brazilian counterparts, including Mr. Carlos Henrique Baqueta Fávaro, Minister of Agriculture and Livestock, and Mr. Luiz Paulo Teixeira, Minister of Agrarian Development and Family Farming (MDA). These meetings will focus on enhancing collaboration between India and Brazil in various areas of agriculture, agri-technology, rural development, and food security.

The Minister will interact with leaders of major Brazilian agribusiness companies and representatives of the Brazilian Association of Vegetable Oil Industries in São Paulo, exploring avenues for partnership and investment in the agriculture value chain. As part of his visit, the Minister will also participate in a tree plantation drive at the Embassy of India in Brasilia, under the noble initiative “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam”, aimed at raising environmental consciousness and honouring motherhood. In addition, the Minister will interact with the vibrant Indian diaspora in São Paulo, acknowledging their role as cultural ambassadors and contributors to bilateral ties. This visit reaffirms India’s commitment to deepen cooperation with BRICS nations and to advance South-South cooperation in agricultural innovation, resilience, and sustainability.

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(Release ID: 2121725) Visitor Counter : 83

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

April 15, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by CE at 2025 World Tourism Cities Federation Hong Kong Fragrant Hills Tourism Summit (English only)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Following is the speech by the Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, at the 2025 World Tourism Cities Federation Hong Kong Fragrant Hills Tourism Summit today (April 15):

Honourable Governor Maurizio Rasero of Asti Province and Mayor of Asti City, Italy, Honourable Executive Vice Chair Sima Hong of the World Tourism Cities Federation Council and Vice Mayor of Beijing, Honourable Deputy Director Qi Bin of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Honourable Deputy Commissioner Pan Yundong of the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, honourable city mayors, vice mayors and institutional leaders from around the world, distinguished guests and friends from the global tourism community, ladies and gentlemen,

Good afternoon. Welcome to Hong Kong, and to the 2025 World Tourism Cities Federation Hong Kong Fragrant Hills Tourism Summit.

Fragrant Hills, as you would all know, is a scenic area in Beijing, where the World Tourism Cities Federation is headquartered. “Fragrant hills” also makes me think of Hong Kong as a “fragrant harbour” – the Chinese name of Hong Kong can literally be translated as “fragrant harbour”.

“Fragrant”, let me add, because of Hong Kong’s redolent history as a major trader for incense, particularly agarwood incense and the wood’s varied byproducts.

Over the centuries, the sweet aroma of agarwood, of incense, drifted from harbour to city – and all around the world. From incense and fragrance, to merchandise and capital, Hong Kong has always been a bridge between cultures, cities and continents, bringing out the best of our products on the global arena.

Today, Hong Kong remains a major global trading centre, a centre of free trade. That’s thanks, too, to the Hong Kong Port in our harbour, to the Hong Kong International Airport, and to our varied and seamless transport links to China, our country.

These seamless links, and our singular status as the city where East has long met West, are not going to change. In a world beset by trade woes and geopolitical crises, Hong Kong is determined to continue its dedication to free and open trade.

That has also led us to become one of the world’s greatest centres for tourism. So it is an honour that the World Tourism Cities Federation has chosen Hong Kong for this year’s Fragrant Hills Tourism Summit. The Federation, after all, is the world’s first international tourism organisation to focus its mission and mandate on cities.

Not surprising, then, that this Summit welcomes city mayors, vice mayors and other city officials and delegations from over 40 cities from the Mainland and around the world. Together, we embody the spirit of collaboration beyond geographical boundaries. Together, we unite for the future of tourism.

The theme of this year’s Summit, “Innovate City Branding to Elevate Tourism Excellence”, gives us a good start to discuss how our cities could, through collaboration, achieve high-quality development in tourism and more.

For Hong Kong, long an international metropolis, one key development opportunity certainly comes from the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

This cluster city development brings together Hong Kong, Macao and nine southern cities in the Guangdong province, and boasts a population of over 86 million. It also has a combined GDP (Gross Domestic Product) that rivals that of the world’s 10th largest economy.

What it means is a consumer market, and source of tourists, that is over 10 times as large as our own city. What it also means, with our country’s facilitation measures for travellers, is that visitors who choose to visit this part of the world have much more cities to add to their itinerary. We are fast developing in multi-destination tourism for an interconnected world. From a six-day visa for visitors in tour groups led by a Hong Kong travel agent, to the visa-free policy for cruise ship travellers along the country’s coastline.

That said, you can well begin in Hong Kong, where there’s something happening everywhere you look – and at our Victoria Harbour. You need only to see for yourself how open, welcoming and endlessly amazing our city is, to a world of tourism – to you.

Start with Victoria Harbour, and enjoy the refreshing views with our skyline and green hills rising from both sides of the harbour. And do take the Star Ferry. For more than a century, it’s been one of the world’s most unforgettable harbour passages. Leisure travel, timeless memories – in Hong Kong – and for well under US$1 a trip. It’s really good value for money.

Hong Kong, after all, is the world’s mega event city. Last week, UK (United Kingdom) band Coldplay performed four sold-out concerts at our brand-new, state-of-the-art Kai Tak Sports Park. And through next Monday, it’s the 49th Hong Kong International Film Festival.

Art lovers will want to catch the exhibition “Picasso for Asia: a Conversation”, at M+ museum, in the West Kowloon Cultural District – one of the world’s largest cultural developments. More than 60 masterpieces by Picasso are shown alongside artworks by Asian artists. Also there, is the Hong Kong Palace Museum, which is now showcasing an exhibition that brings together treasures from Beijing’s Forbidden City and the Palace of Versailles in Paris.

Yes, ladies and gentlemen, Hong Kong is where cultures meet and thrive, where creativity is well and alive. And you can also count on hills and sea coasts alive with fabulous hiking, and biking trails. After all, country parks make up some 40 per cent of Hong Kong’s total land area.

And when you’re all hiked and biked out, settle into one of our nearly 80 Michelin-starred restaurants, do yum cha (tea and food) with half of Hong Kong, then toast your good fortune at a local brew pub, or get cozy with milk tea at a classic dai pai dong, our traditional cooked food stalls. And don’t leave Hong Kong without a sky-high cocktail, or two, at hotel and city lounges rising from either side of Victoria Harbour. From dim sum dreams to boozy nights, our food paradise glows with true delights.

Ladies and gentlemen, I’m sure this year’s Fragrant Hills will bring about global thrills. My thanks to the World Tourism Cities Federation, and this Hong Kong Summit. I’m confident we’ll find a wellspring of innovative and inspiring ways to work together, to reimagine travel for this 21st century packed with promise for global tourism – and for each and every one of our proud and magnificent cities.

Thank you.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

April 15, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong’s Comprehensive Avoidance of Double Taxation Agreement with Armenia in force

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Hong Kong’s Comprehensive Avoidance of Double Taxation Agreement with Armenia in force
“Under the CDTA, companies and residents of Hong Kong and Armenia will not have to pay tax twice on a single source of income. The CDTA will allow them to have certainty on tax liabilities and save tax when they engage in cross-border business activities, thus helping to promote bilateral trade and investment. To date, Hong Kong has signed CDTAs with 51 tax jurisdictions,” a Government spokesman said.

The CDTA is available on the Hong Kong e-Legislation websiteIssued at HKT 15:00

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CategoriesMIL-OSI

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

April 15, 2025

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Automotive Industry: Powering India’s Participation in Global Value Chains (GVCs)

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 15 APR 2025 3:13PM by PIB Delhi

Key Takeaways

India contributes 7.1% to global GDP through its automotive sector and ranks 4th in global vehicle production.
Despite a strong manufacturing base, India holds only 3% share in global traded auto components, highlighting a vast scope for expansion.
The Vision 2030 roadmap aims to scale production to $145bn, exports to $60bn, and generate 2–2.5 million jobs.
Government schemes like FAME, PM E-Drive, and PLI have mobilized ₹66,000+ crore to support EVs and localization.
With targeted reforms and GVC integration, India can raise its global component trade share from 3% to 8% by 2030.

On 11^th April 2024, NITI Aayog released a report titled ‘Automotive Industry: Powering India’s Participation in Global Value Chains’, launched by Vice Chairman Shri Suman Bery, senior members, and the CEO of NITI Aayog. The report outlines India’s Global Value Chain (GVC) potential in the automotive sector and highlights strategic pathways for global leadership.

India’s automotive industry is a cornerstone of the nation’s manufacturing and economic growth, contributing 7.1% to India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and 49% to manufacturing GDP. As the fourth-largest automobile producer globally, India possesses the scale and strategic depth to emerge as a global leader in the automotive value chain. The sector spans a vast ecosystem, from vehicle assembly and auto component manufacturing to deep interlinkages with critical industries such as steel, electronics, rubber, IT, and logistics. In recent years, India has seen exponential growth in vehicle production, with over 28 million units manufactured in 2023–24 alone. The industry’s contribution goes beyond industrial output, and it supports millions of direct and indirect jobs, spurs innovation, and is central to India’s green mobility transition, industrial ambitions, and trade strategy.

The global automotive component market was valued at $2 trillion in 2022, with $700 billion traded across borders. Despite India’s strong manufacturing base, its share in the globally traded auto component market remains at just 3% (~$20 billion), highlighting a vast scope for expansion. India’s trade ratio in auto components is near-neutral (~0.99), with exports and imports nearly balancing each other. This also underlines the domestic sector’s limited penetration in high-value, high-precision segments such as engine and engine components, along with drive transmission and steering systems, where India holds just 2–4% of the global trade share. Bridging this gap requires structural reforms, strategic investments, and a coordinated industrial policy approach. With the right enabling conditions, India can triple exports to $60 billion, generate a $25 billion trade surplus, and create over 2-2.5 million direct jobs by 2030, propelling it toward becoming a globally competitive, innovation-driven manufacturing hub.

Strategic Importance of the Automotive Sector

Contributes 7.1% to India’s GDP and 49% to manufacturing GDP.
Employs millions and supports critical linkages across steel, electronics, and IT sectors.
India’s current share in globally traded auto components is approximately 3% or 20 billion.

India’s Vision for Automotive Industry

This vision aligns with India’s aspirations to become a global manufacturing hub under the Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives.

Global Trends Shaping the Sector

1. Rise of Electric Vehicles (EVs):

EVs are reshaping manufacturing priorities, with China producing over 8 million EVs in 2023.
The EU and the US are accelerating EV adoption through regulatory mandates and subsidies.
EVs are increasing the demand for batteries, semiconductors, and advanced materials.

2. Digital and Advanced Manufacturing:

Integration of AI, robotics, digital twins, Internet of Things (IoT), and 3D printing is driving efficiency.
Many global automakers are investing heavily in creating smart factories, where AI, IoT, and robotics are integrated into every aspect of the production process. Countries like Germany and South Korea are leading in smart factory adoption.

3. Sustainability and Circular Economy:

Automakers are moving toward carbon neutrality, material recycling, and energy efficiency.
Examples: BMW’s EV battery recycling and Volkswagen’s renewable energy sourcing.

4. Sectoral Interdependence:

Auto industry is a major consumer of steel, electronics, rubber, glass, textiles, and IT services.
Increasing reliance on semiconductors and AI-driven software for innovative mobility solutions.

Major Government Interventions

1. Make in India: Launched in 2014, the Make in India initiative has provided a significant boost to the country’s manufacturing sector, particularly in automobiles. This policy promotes domestic manufacturing, reduces reliance on imports, and encourages foreign direct investment.

2.Atmanirbhar Bharat: The Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative aims to foster self-sufficiency in manufacturing and reduce the country’s dependence on foreign components. In the automotive sector, this has resulted in increased domestic production of critical components such as engines, transmissions, and EV batteries. The government has also extended support to start-ups and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the automotive space, helping them integrate into global supply chains.

3.FAME India Scheme (Phases I & II): The Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles (FAME) scheme has been pivotal in promoting clean mobility in India. Phase II, with an outlay of ₹11,500 crore, focuses on demand incentives for electric two-wheelers, three-wheelers, buses, and the development of public charging infrastructure. It also aims to promote technology platforms for EVs and create a robust domestic EV ecosystem.

4. PM E-Drive Scheme (2024–26): Launched to accelerate EV adoption and reduce urban pollution, this scheme has a budget of ₹10,900 crore and targets large-scale procurement of electric vehicles:

24.79 lakh electric two-wheelers
3.2 lakh electric three-wheelers
Procurement of 14,028 electric buses by State Transport Undertakings (STUs)/public transport agencies
₹2,000 crore earmarked for national-level charging infrastructure expansion.

5. Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Auto and ACC Batteries: With a total allocation of ₹44,038 crore (PLI scheme- INR 25,938 crore, PLI scheme for ACC Battery Storage- INR 18,100 crores), this flagship initiative aims to boost the domestic manufacturing of advanced automotive technologies, including EVs, hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, and advanced battery storage solutions. It provides financial incentives to OEMs and component manufacturers for investing in cutting-edge technologies, achieving economies of scale, and integrating into global supply chains. The scheme also prioritises domestic value addition, export readiness, and job creation through technology-driven innovation.

Key Challenges Hindering the Global Value Chain’s Integration

10% cost disadvantage for India versus China due to:
- Higher raw material and machinery costs
- 100% depreciation rate vs 50% in China (~3.4% cost burden)
- High logistics, financing, and energy costs

Underperformance in high-precision segments:
- India’s global share: Only 2–4% in engine and engine components, along with drive transmission and steering systems
Inadequate R&D ecosystem and limited IP ownership

Proposed Interventions for GVC Integration

Fiscal Measures:

Operational Expenditure (Opex) Support: To scale up manufacturing capabilities, with a focus on capital expenditure (Capex) for tooling, dies, and infrastructure.
Skill Development: Initiatives to build a talent pipeline critical for sustaining growth.
R&D, Government facilitated IP transfer and Branding: Providing incentives for research, development, international branding to improve product differentiation and empowering MSMEs through IP transfers.
Cluster Development: Fostering collaboration between firms through common facilities such as R&D and testing centers to strengthen the supply chain.

Non-Fiscal Reforms:

Industry 4.0 Adoption: Encouraging the integration of digital technologies and enhanced manufacturing standards to improve efficiency.
International Collaboration: Promoting joint ventures (JVs), foreign collaborations, and free trade agreements (FTAs) to expand global market access.
Ease of Doing Business: Simplifying regulatory processes, worker hour flexibility, supplier discovery & development and improving business conditions for automotive firms.

Conclusion

India’s automotive sector stands at a decisive inflection point, where focused reforms, policy clarity, and industry alignment can elevate it into the league of global leaders in automotive manufacturing. With the world shifting rapidly towards clean, smart, and connected mobility, India must accelerate its integration into global value chains by building competitiveness in high-precision components, fostering innovation, and deepening its export footprint. Over the next five years, the effective execution of planned interventions—ranging from skilling and infrastructure to R&D and global partnerships- will determine whether India becomes a hub for high-value auto components or remains a low-cost player in traditional segments. With the right mix of ambition and action, India can become a globally recognised supplier of next-generation mobility solutions.

References

· REPORT – Automotive Industry: Powering India’s participation in Global Value Chains –https://www.niti.gov.in/sites/default/files/2025-04/Automotive-Industry-Powering-India-participation-in-GVC_Non-Confidential.pdf

· https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2120977

Automotive Industry: Powering India’s Participation in Global Value Chains (GVCs)

****

Santosh Kumar/ Sarla Meena / Vatsla Srivastava

(Release ID: 2121826) Visitor Counter : 122

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

April 15, 2025

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by PSCST at press conference of French May Arts Festival and French GourMay 2025 (English only)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Speech by PSCST at press conference of French May Arts Festival and French GourMay 2025 (English only)
Mrs Cheng (Co-chairman of the Board of French May Arts Festival, Mrs Mignonne Cheng), Mrs Drulhe (Consul General of France in Hong Kong and Macau, Mrs Christile Drulhe), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,

Good morning. It is my great honour to join you all at the press conference of this year’s French May Arts Festival and French GourMay.

Since its inception in 1993, French May has spanned over 30 years and established itself as one of Hong Kong’s, and even Asia’s, most prestigious arts and cultural celebrations. Stepping into the 32nd edition, French May Arts Festival will as always bring together world-class artists and programmes with rich French characteristics to the community, further adding vibrancy to the cultural landscape of Hong Kong.

I’m glad to know that this year’s French May will feature more than 60 events spotlighting over 200 French and Hong Kong artists. Highlights include the ongoing exhibition, “Picasso for Asia - A Conversation”, which is co‑presented by French May, Musée National Picasso-Paris and M+, and presents more than 60 masterpieces by Pablo Picasso, together with 130 works of contemporary Asian artists. This project, which is supported by the Mega Arts and Cultural Events Fund under the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau, is a good example of initiatives which promote East-West cultural exchanges.

Just last month, we had our Super March welcoming globally renowned arts and cultural programmes and visitors from around the world. And I must thank French May for your commitment to creating a platform for arts and cultural exchanges and bringing about opportunities for the industry and community. Your invaluable contributions complement the Government’s wide-ranging efforts in developing Hong Kong into an East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchanges.

I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the Consulate General of France in Hong Kong, and all the collaborating organisations and artists that work together to bring this year’s Festival to life. I’m also glad to note that French GourMay will return this year, with French spirits as well as Hong Kong’s nightlife and bars, being the spotlights of the Festival.

I have no doubt that this year’s French May Arts Festival and French GourMay will be another resounding success for all. Thank you.
Issued at HKT 12:25

NNNN

CategoriesMIL-OSI

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

April 15, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LegCo Secretariat releases Policy Pulse on “Laws on safeguarding national security”

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

The following is issued on behalf of the Legislative Council Secretariat:

     Today (April 15) is the National Security Education Day. The Safeguarding National Security Ordinance has been in effect for one year since its passage by the Legislative Council (LegCo) in a historic unanimous vote on the Third Reading in March last year, while the Law of the People’s Republic of China on Safeguarding National Security in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKNSL) will celebrate its fifth anniversary at the end of June this year. The LegCo Secretariat today released a Policy Pulse on “Laws on safeguarding national security”. This issue provides a brief overview of the key points of the dual legislation on national security, namely the HKNSL and the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance, how the dual legislation properly protects human rights and ensures that the public will not be inadvertently caught by the law, its role in contributing to the prosperity and stability of Hong Kong, as well as relevant discussions of LegCo along with suggestions by Members.

     National security is a matter of top priority for any state. The enactment of laws on safeguarding national security is an inherent right of every sovereign state, and also an international practice. The Policy Pulse outlines the latest situation of national security laws enacted by some foreign countries, including the Countering Foreign Interference Act introduced by Canada in 2024, and the New Zealand Parliament is also scrutinising the Crimes (Countering Foreign Interference) Amendment Bill aimed at addressing foreign interference. Meanwhile, the United States and the United Kingdom each has at least 21 pieces and 14 pieces of national security-related legislation respectively.

     The dual legislation on national security, together with the Office for Safeguarding National Security of the Central People’s Government of the People’s Republic of China in Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) and the Committee for Safeguarding National Security of HKSAR, have jointly established a comprehensive and effective legal system and enforcement mechanisms for safeguarding national security, reflecting the implementation of national security within the purview of the Central Authorities and as the constitutional duty of HKSAR.

     The Policy Pulse also highlights that since the implementation of the dual legislation on national security, Hong Kong ranks highly in a number of international ratings, including global financial centre status, economic freedom, inward foreign direct investment recipient, and world competitiveness. Hong Kong ranked as the world’s freest economy in the Economic Freedom of the World 2024 Annual Report, with the number of overseas companies based in Hong Kong stood at 9 960 in 2024, a nearrly 10 percent rise from the previous year. These achievements reflect the international community’s continued strong confidence in Hong Kong. They also attest to how improved laws and enforcement mechanisms for safeguarding national security help maintain Hong Kong’s political and social stability and cultivate a more secure, liberal, open and expectable business environment, which plays a solid and fundamental role in safeguarding the stability and prosperity of Hong Kong, and further enabling the city’s advancement from stability to prosperity.

     The Safeguarding National Security Bill was passed by LegCo in a historic unanimous vote on the Third Reading on March 19, 2024. The Policy Pulse outlines LegCo’s scrutiny of the Bill and highlights Member’s views on the follow-up work after the Bill’s passage. Members suggested that various bureaux, departments, statutory bodies, etc., establish codes, procedures or guidelines to ensure that national security is regarded as an important consideration when discharging their day-to-day functions and implementing any programmes or projects. Members also considered that the Administration should ensure that public officers fully understand the contents of national security laws and abide by the requirements of these laws in discharging their duties.

     Members suggested the Administration step up public education on all fronts to enable the public, the business sector and investors to understand the implementation of the dual legislation on national security in a clear and easily comprehensible manner. The Administration should also effectively carry out its explanatory work to the international community, including making good use of the networks of overseas Hong Kong Economic and Trade Offices and Invest Hong Kong to explain to various overseas sectors how the dual legislation on national security effectively safeguards national security in Hong Kong in accordance with the rule of law principle, while at the same time fully respects and protects human rights. Members expected that the Administration proactively enhance its efforts in attracting enterprises and investment so that Hong Kong could serve as a “super-connector” and a “super value-adder” for the world, as well as continuing to take the initiative to clarify and rebut inaccurate remarks and unwarranted smears against the HKSAR’s work on safeguarding national security.

     The detailed content of “Laws on safeguarding national security” is available on the LegCo Website. The Policy Pulse, published by the LegCo Secretariat, covers specific topics, offers a comprehensive overview of related policy developments and summarises key discussions in LegCo.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

April 15, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: NASA Announces 31st Human Exploration Rover Challenge Winners

Source: NASA

NASA has announced the winning student teams in the 2025 Human Exploration Rover Challenge. This year’s competition challenged teams to design, build, and test a lunar rover powered by either human pilots or remote control. In the human-powered division, Parish Episcopal School in Dallas, Texas, earned first place in the high school division, and the Campbell University in Buies Creek, North Carolina, captured the college and university title. In the remote-control division, Bright Foundation in Surrey, British Columbia, Canada, earned first place in the middle and high school division, and the Instituto Tecnologico de Santa Domingo in the Dominican Republic, captured the college and university title.
The annual engineering competition – one of NASA’s longest standing student challenges – wrapped up on April 11 and April 12, at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama, near NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center. The complete list of 2025 award winners is provided below:

First Place: Parish Episcopal School, Dallas, Texas
Second Place: Ecambia High School, Pensacola, Florida
Third Place: Centro Boliviano Americano – Santa Cruz, Bolivia

First Place: Campbell University, Buies Creek, North Carolina
Second Place: Instituto Tecnologico de Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
Third Place: University of Alabama in Huntsville

First Place: Bright Foundation, Surrey, British Columbia, Canada
Second Place: Assumption College, Brangrak, Bangkok, Thailand
Third Place: Erie High School, Erie, Colorado

First Place: Instituto Tecnologico de Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
Second Place: Campbell University, Buies Creek, North Carolina
Third Place: Tecnologico de Monterey – Campus Cuernvaca, Xochitepec, Morelos, Mexico

Queen’s University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada

Human-Powered

High School Division: International Hope School of Bangladesh, Uttara, Dhaka, Bangladesh
College/University Division: Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama

Remote-Control

Middle School/High School Division: Bright Foundation, Surrey, British Columbia, Canada
College/University Division: Southwest Oklahoma State University, Weatherford, Oklahoma

Remote-Control

Middle School/High School Division: Assumption College, Bangrak, Bangkok, Thailand
College/University Division: Instituto Tecnologico de Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

Human-Powered

High School Division: Parish Episcopal School, Dallas, Texas
College/University Division: Campbell University, Buies Creek, North Carolina

Remote-Control

Middle School/High School Division: Bright Foundation, Surrey, British Columbia, Canada
College/University Division: Instituto Tecnologico de Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

Campbell University, Buies Creek, North Carolina

Human-Powered

High School Division: Parish Episcopal School, Dallas, Texas
College/University Division: University of Alabama in Huntsville

Universidad de Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico (Human-Powered Division)

Instituto Tecnologico de Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic (Human-Powered Division)

Human-Powered

High School Division: Albertville Innovation School, Albertville, Alabama
College/University Division: Instituto Tecnologico de Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

Remote-Control

Middle School/High School Division: Instituto Salesiano Don Bosco, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
College/University Division: Tecnologico de Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico

Human-Powered

High School Division: International Hope School of Bagladesh, Uttara, Dhaka, Bangladesh
College/University Division: Universidad Catolica Boliviana “San Pablo” La Paz, Bolivia

Remote-Control

Middle School/High School Division: ATLAS SkillTech University, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
College/University Division: Instituto Salesiano Don Bosco, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

Human-Powered

High School Division: Space Education Institute, Leipzig, Germany
College/University Division: Purdue University Northwest, Hammond, Indiana

Remote-Control

Middle School/High School Division: Erie High School, Erie, Colorado
College/University Division: Campbell University, Buies Creek, North Carolina

Human-Powered

High School Division: Academy of Arts, Career, and Technology, Reno, Nevada
College/University Division: Queen’s University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada

Fabion Diaz Palacious from Universidad Catolica Boliviana “San Pablo” La Paz, Bolivia

Deira International School, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

More than 500 students with 75 teams from around the world participated in the 31st year of the competition. Participating teams represented 35 colleges and universities, 38 high schools, and two middle schools from 20 states, Puerto Rico, and 16 other nations. Teams were awarded points based on navigating a half-mile obstacle course, conducting mission-specific task challenges, and completing multiple safety and design reviews with NASA engineers.
NASA expanded the 2025 challenge to include a remote-control division, Remote-Operated Vehicular Research, and invited middle school students to participate.
“This student design challenge encourages the next generation of scientists and engineers to engage in the design process by providing innovative concepts and unique perspectives,” said Vemitra Alexander, who leads the challenge for NASA’s Office of STEM Engagement at Marshall. “This challenge also continues NASA’s legacy of providing valuable experiences to students who may be responsible for planning future space missions, including crewed missions to other worlds.”
The rover challenge is one of NASA’s eight Artemis Student Challenges reflecting the goals of the Artemis campaign, which will land Americans on the Moon while establishing a long-term presence for science and exploration, preparing for future human missions to Mars. NASA uses such challenges to encourage students to pursue degrees and careers in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
The competition is managed by NASA’s Southeast Regional Office of STEM Engagement at Marshall. Since its inception in 1994, more than 15,000 students have participated – with many former students now working at NASA, or within the aerospace industry.
To learn more about the Human Exploration Rover Challenge, please visit:
https://www.nasa.gov/roverchallenge/home/index.html

Taylor GoodwinMarshall Space Flight Center, Huntsville, Ala.256.544.0034taylor.goodwin@nasa.gov

MIL OSI USA News –

April 15, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Iran confirms Muscat to host 2nd round of nuke talks with US

Source: China State Council Information Office

Iran has confirmed that Muscat, the capital of Oman, will remain the venue for the second round of “indirect” negotiations between Tehran and Washington.

“Following consultations, it was decided that Muscat continues to be the host of the second round of the negotiations, which are scheduled to be held on Saturday,” the semi-official Mehr news agency quoted Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei as saying early Tuesday.

In the first round of Muscat talks on Saturday, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi engaged in “indirect” discussions with U.S. Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff, facilitated by Omani Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr bin Hamad bin Hamood Albusaidi. These talks focused on Iran’s nuclear program and the potential removal of U.S. sanctions.

The talks in Muscat followed U.S. President Donald Trump’s statement in early March that he had sent a letter to Iranian leaders, delivered through the United Arab Emirates, proposing negotiations on Iran’s nuclear program. Iran later agreed on indirect talks.

Iran signed a nuclear deal in July 2015 with six major countries — Britain, China, France, Germany, Russia and the United States. Under the deal, Iran agreed to limit its nuclear activities in exchange for sanctions relief.

However, Trump unilaterally pulled his country out of the deal in May 2018 during his first term, and reimposed sanctions on Iran, prompting Tehran to scale back its commitments under the deal. Since then, efforts to revive the nuclear agreement have made little progress.

MIL OSI China News –

April 15, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Canton Fair kicks off with record number of export exhibitors

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

GUANGZHOU, April 15 — The 137th edition of the China Import and Export Fair, also known as the Canton Fair, kicked off on Tuesday, with the number of export exhibitors exceeding 30,000 for the first time in the history of this famous event.

Scheduled to take place from April 15 to May 5 in the southern Chinese metropolis of Guangzhou, this edition of the fair has attracted about 31,000 participating firms, up by nearly 900 compared with the previous fair.

More than 200,000 overseas buyers from 215 countries and regions have preregistered, with the lineup featuring the likes of retail giants Walmart and Target from the United States, Carrefour from France, Tesco and Kingfisher from Britain, and Germany’s Metro.

This edition of the fair is divided into three phases. The first will focus on advanced manufacturing, the second on quality home furnishings, and the third on products that promote a better quality of life.

The event will involve 172 product zones, including, for the first time, a special zone for service robots focused on showcasing the latest achievements of China’s AI development efforts.

Xinhua reporters at the fair witnessed an exhibition hall becoming packed with participants just after 9 a.m. Notably, the exhibition area focusing on service robots was especially busy. Many overseas buyers used their mobile phones to capture images of robotic dogs, industrial exoskeleton equipment, automatic cruise robots, coffee-making robots and other products, while asking exhibitors for more details about their functions.

“This Canton Fair is held in the year when China’s ’14th Five-Year Plan’ nears completion — which is of great significance in promoting the innovative development of trade, thus ensuring stable foreign trade volume and improving foreign trade quality,” said Zhang Sihong, deputy director of the China Foreign Trade Center.

He noted that the large gathering of global buyers at the fair underlined the trust of the international business community in made-in-China products.

Guo Yanhu with Gree, a leading home appliances enterprise, said that through green technology innovation and AI intelligent upgrading, the company provides users with efficient and low-carbon solutions, having sold products to more than 190 countries and regions in 2024.

The Canton Fair has always been an important driver of global trade, said Andre Rocha, president of the Federation of Industries of the State of Goias, Brazil. Here, people can learn about the major global development trends and cutting-edge technologies, as well as solutions that can actually boost industrial development, he added.

Established in 1957, the Canton Fair is held twice a year in Guangzhou. It is the longest-running of several comprehensive international trade events in China and has been hailed as the barometer of China’s foreign trade.

Despite the weak momentum of global economic growth, intensified trade protectionism and geopolitical tensions, China’s foreign trade has maintained stable growth.

According to the General Administration of Customs, China’s total goods imports and exports in yuan-denominated terms expanded 1.3 percent year on year in the first quarter of 2025. China’s exports rose 6.9 percent to 6.13 trillion yuan (about 850.1 billion U.S. dollars) during this period, while imports fell 6 percent to 4.17 trillion yuan.

In addition, the fifth China International Consumer Products Expo, being held on the tropical island province of Hainan in south China this week, has also reaffirmed China’s position as a vital marketplace for global enterprises. It has drawn record participation from over 4,100 brands across 71 countries and regions, reflecting the expanding international appetite for engagement with China’s vast consumer market and its evolving landscape.

MIL OSI China News –

April 15, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Dunball Sluice £9.7 million upgrade completed 
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Press release

Dunball Sluice £9.7 million upgrade completed 

Dunball Sluice – a vital flood defence asset near Bridgwater – has been successfully refurbished by the Environment Agency. 
Dunball sluice performs a vital flood and water management function on the Somerset Levels and Moors.

A £9.7million project has given the sluice another 25 years of operational life, helping to better protect properties, businesses and internationally important habitats across the Somerset Levels and Moors. 

Delivered by the Environment Agency’s Combined Delivery Framework (CDF) partners, the refurbishment began in 2022 and was funded by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), with a £650,000 contribution from the Somerset Rivers Authority (SRA). 

Dunball Sluice became operational in 1971. It sits where the tidal River Parrett meets the 13.5-mile-long King’s Sedgemoor Drain – River Sowy system. The Sowy was created in tandem with the Sluice in 1969-1972: it is also known as the Parrett Flood Relief Channel. Water flows into the Sowy from the Parrett downstream of Langport, and then into the KSD, before rejoining the Parrett through Dunball Sluice. 

Refurbishment began in 2022 and has been completed in partnership with the Somerset Rivers Authority (SRA) and Defra.

The Environment Agency uses the sluice’s lifting gates and tidal flaps to control flows between the different watercourses. Doing this helps to manage water levels and reduce flood risks for communities across a large area. Blocking the flow of tidal saltwater from the Parrett into the KSD also helps to safeguard precious freshwater habitats on the Somerset Levels and Moors.  

The refurbishment replaced and upgraded key mechanical, electrical, instrumentation, control and automation components, many of which were nearing the end of their working life. Also included were measures to help otters and eels move more easily and safely between watercourses, health and safety improvements for site staff and minor concrete repairs. 

‘New life breathed into the structure’

Rachel Burden, Environment Agency flood and coastal risk manager for Wessex, said:   

Dunball Sluice is one of Somerset’s most important tidal defence assets, but many of its key components were reaching the end of their working life.

This multi-million-pound refurbishment has breathed new life into the structure, ensuring it can continue to reduce flood risk for communities for years to come.

Councillor Mike Stanton, Chair of Somerset Rivers Authority (SRA), said: 

Maintenance and improvement works are not glamorous, but they are very important. Local people expect flood defences to work properly, and all of us should try to make sure they do. So, I’m pleased that Somerset Rivers Authority (SRA) funding helped to refurbish Dunball Sluice. 

I’m happy too because this project ties in with a major SRA improvements scheme for other parts of the River Sowy-KSD system. This year the SRA is funding upgrades for two outfall structures and up to 1.8 kilometres of bank raising works along the KSD.

Bit by bit, as partners work together, we’re reducing flood risks around Bridgwater and across a large part of the Somerset Levels and Moors.

Floods Minister Emma Hardy said:

The Dunball Sluice is critical infrastructure better protecting properties and farmland in Somerset, and its full refurbishment will give local people and businesses confidence that their flood defences are operating well for the next 25 years.

This Government inherited flood defences in their worst condition on record. Through our Plan for Change, we‘re investing over £144 million into the south west of England, an essential investment to build new defences and to bring existing ones up to their required condition, ensuring 1,700 properties in the region are better protected from flooding.

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Published 15 April 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
April 15, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Councils’ joint green skills and training project benefits businesses
Source: City of Portsmouth

A Green Skills upskilling project offering free and subsidised courses designed to support the move to NetZero in the region has been hailed as a great success. 180 qualifications were achieved by local people who took advantage of the free training.

Launched in the summer of 2024, the Green Skills upskilling project has been a collaborative effort to provide green skills training to help people gain skills for the future. This initiative is a partnership between Portsmouth City Council and Havant Borough Council, City of Portsmouth College, and SERT Training.

Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with participants highlighting the immediate application of their training to their work practices and the expansion of services they can offer to customers. Training took place at City of Portsmouth College and SERT Training, both of which offer modern, industry-specific resources.

Brad Howick, from TVR Electrical in Havant said:

“The Green Skills funding helped our business through the EV charger course. This was extremely beneficial to have more engineers qualified to install EV chargers, giving us more flexibility with our scheduling.”

Cllr Steve Pitt, Leader of Portsmouth City Council with responsibility for economic development said:

“It is fantastic to see the impact of collaboration in action across our region via our Green Skills upskilling project. As we focus on a more sustainable future, investing in our workforce is essential, and these new green skills are enabling businesses and residents alike to adapt and thrive in our economy moving forward.”

Cllr. Phil Munday, Leader of Havant Borough Council, said:

“We are delighted to have secured a grant from the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund which has enabled us to help and train many working in the construction trade.

By developing the skills and knowledge of those who live or work locally it will benefit us in making commercial buildings and homes in the borough more energy-efficient in the future.

“As a council, we are committed to tackling the climate emergency head-on. So, it is great that Havant Borough Council and Portsmouth City Council have been able to work in partnership with SERT Group, and City of Portsmouth College who have provided the training to equip residents and businesses with green skills that will, in time help to decarbonise the borough.

“Industries are rapidly moving towards green skills so being prepared for this shift by upskilling the next generation of workers will benefit everyone.”

Using UK Shared Prosperity Funding, this initiative focused on increasing skills and awareness of sustainable and net zero practices. Some of the courses on offer included:
- Electrical Energy Storage Systems
- Solar PV Installation
- Solar & Battery Combined
- Air Source Heat Pump (ASHP) Training
- Electric Vehicle (EV) Charger Point
Mark Edwards, CEO SERT Group said:

“We’re incredibly proud to collaborate with Havant Borough Council, Portsmouth City Council, and City of Portsmouth College on this UK Shared Prosperity Fund grant for green upskilling. Over the past few months, SERT has upskilled 66 residents through 97 accredited upskill courses in sustainable energy solutions, including solar panel installation, battery storage, EV charging points, and air source heat pump design, installation, and maintenance. These initiatives are creating new career opportunities, driving renewable energy adoption, and supporting our collective journey towards net zero—making a real impact in our communities.”

Katy Quinn, Principal and CEO City of Portsmouth College said:

“Sustainability is always high on our agenda, so we were delighted at the opportunity to access the prosperity funding. It meant we were able to offer plumbing and heating engineers from micro, small, and medium-sized businesses three one-day courses completely free of charge. It was fantastic to collaborate closely with Portsmouth City Council, Havant Borough Council, and SERT to deliver this training, enhancing critical skills and making a difference for the people who live and work in our region.”
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
April 15, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council’s business growth team provides support to hundreds of city businesses

Source: City of Wolverhampton

Forty five businesses benefitted through its grants programme – leading to the creation of 83 new jobs and the safeguarding of a further 179 jobs in Wolverhampton.

The business growth team exceeded its targets using the £1.3 million UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) government funding it was allocated through Business Growth West Midlands to help companies with capital investment and energy efficiency measures.

The total projected growth in turnover of the businesses it supported with grants is expected to equate to around £14.5 million in the year ahead.

Also providing free local diagnostic and business support service, the team dealt with 700 business enquiries over the past 12 months and 200 diagnostic checks were carried out.

Councillor Chris Burden, City of Wolverhampton Council Cabinet Member for City Development, Jobs and Skills, said: “In Wolverhampton, we are utilising the UKSPF funding to support SMEs in maximising their offer and capitalising on opportunities being generated by investment in our city.

“Throughout 2024/25 our business growth team has collaborated with small but highly ambitious businesses to help them make and secure investment, create and sustain jobs, develop new products and services, and access new UK and overseas markets.

“Our city economy is underpinned by creative thinking, innovation, ambition, skills, and sheer hard work and we want to do everything we can to support this through our grants programme.

“I would urge businesses to head to the business growth webpage and find out exactly what funding is available to them.”

Gabitie and Ceandess are 2 of the Wolverhampton businesses supported by the grants.

Metal processing company Gabitie specialises in steel structures and fabrications. Grant support towards the acquisition of a laser cutter and a standing seam cladding machine will enable the business to launch new ranges such as garden offices, and to focus on entering the lucrative domestic extensions market.

Ceandess supplies and manufactures a range of fuel and oil fillers, base and filler assemblies, and fuel engine and hydraulic filter caps. The acquisition of a tube bending and forming machine will provide them with a strong platform to access the lucrative Australian and Canadian mining markets by offering formed tubes alongside their existing range.

The window for expressions of interest in Wolverhampton Council’s latest round of business grants to support city businesses with capital investment and low carbon projects is now open and will close on 30 April, 2025.

It is likely the average grant available will be up to £20,000 for projects costing £40,000 or more.
Higher grants could be available depending on the impact of the investment – but grants will be capped at no more than 50% of the project cost.

Full details of grant eligibility, impact measures and the application processes, along with details of some of the other new business support programmes, can be found at Business Growth Wolverhampton.

Applications for the grants are on a competitive basis, subject to availability of funds, and distributed at the discretion of the council.

If you need help with your grant application or have a general query, you can get in touch by emailing business.development@wolverhampton.gov.uk or calling the business support phone line on 01902 555572 between 9am and 5pm from Monday to Thursday or from 9am to 4.30pm on Fridays.

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

April 15, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: EU and Member States pledge over €522 million to address Sudan crisis

Source: European Commission – Justice

European Commission Press release Brussels, 15 Apr 2025 To help address the difficult humanitarian situation in Sudan, the European Commission and Member States have pledged €522 million in aid for 2025 at the High-level Conference for Sudan, co-hosted in London today by the Commission alongside the United Kingdom, France, Germany and the African Union.

MIL OSI Europe News –

April 15, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Human rights situation in the Philippines and EU-Philippines free trade agreement negotiations – E-001506/2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-001506/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Jonas Sjöstedt (The Left)

The Commission announced the resumption of EU-Philippines free trade agreement (FTA) negotiations in March 2024.

Under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr’s rule, the human rights situation in the Philippines has not significantly improved; drug-related killings have continued, and impunity persists. Political persecution of human rights defenders has increased, with an alarmingly high number of enforced disappearances and targeted fabricated charges related to alleged terrorism financing. In 2023, the EU Special Representative for Human Rights questioned the Philippines’ continued trade perks with the EU.

EU-Philippines FTA negotiations have resumed without a new human rights impact assessment (HRIA), despite the previous decision from the European Ombudsman that the Commission’s failure to carry out an HRIA, in relation to its negotiation of an FTA with Vietnam, constituted maladministration (1409/2014/MHZ).

1.What is the Commission’s response to the human rights situation in the Philippines, taking into account the recent disappearances of multiple human rights defenders and environmental activists?

2.How does the Commission take these concerns, including the decision from the European Ombudsman and human rights organisations, into account with regard to future EU-Philippines FTA negotiations?

3.Why has the Commission not carried out a new HRIA, and what would be required for this to be considered?

Submitted: 11.4.2025
Last updated: 15 April 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
April 15, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Blue Card scheme in the EU – E-001405/2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-001405/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Ewa Zajączkowska-Hernik (ESN)

The revision of Directive (EU) 2021/1883 on the conditions of entry to and residence in the European Union of non-EU nationals for the purpose of highly qualified employment (‘the Blue Card Directive’) has raised concerns among citizens about the origins of the changes introduced and the scope of Member States’ powers under the scheme.

In light of the above:

1.What is at the root of the exclusion of Ireland and Denmark from the Blue Card scheme?

2.What scope for decision-making do Member States enjoy under the Blue Card scheme?

3.What persons are covered by family reunification opportunities under the Blue Card scheme?

Submitted: 7.4.2025
Last updated: 15 April 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
April 15, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Urgent inquiry regarding the continued detention and deportation risk of Abdulrahman al-Khalidi – E-001410/2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-001410/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Ilaria Salis (The Left), Mimmo Lucano (The Left), Mélissa Camara (Verts/ALE), Tineke Strik (Verts/ALE), Catarina Vieira (Verts/ALE), Erik Marquardt (Verts/ALE), Cecilia Strada (S&D), Damien Carême (The Left), Catarina Martins (The Left), Özlem Demirel (The Left), Li Andersson (The Left), Isabel Serra Sánchez (The Left)

Abdulrahman al-Khalidi, a Saudi political activist, is detained in Bulgaria, despite a court ruling, handed down on 26 March 2025, ordering his release. He has been held in the Busmantsi Detention Centre for over three years, and authorities are still planning to deport him to Saudi Arabia, where he faces grave risks because of his activism. Al-Khalidi’s detention has been justified on unclear national security grounds, without judicial oversight, which violates Bulgarian judicial rulings and human rights protections[1].

1.What action is the Commission taking to ensure that Bulgaria complies with international obligations, particularly the principle of non-refoulement, and prevents al-Khalidi’s deportation to Saudi Arabia, where he faces torture, arbitrary detention and other human rights violations?

2.How will the Commission ensure that Bulgaria respects judicial decisions, specifically the ruling of Sofia Administrative Court ordering al-Khalidi’s release, and prevents unlawful detention based on arbitrary national security claims?

3.Given the severe risks to al-Khalidi’s life, will the Commission intervene to ensure that Bulgaria grants him asylum protection in line with EU law?

Submitted: 7.4.2025

[1] See: https://www.meltingpot.org/en/2025/04/abdulrahman-al-khalidi-is-at-serious-risk-of-deportation/ and https://balkaninsight.com/2025/04/01/bulgaria-still-detaining-saudi-activist-despite-court-release-order/.
Last updated: 15 April 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
April 15, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Lifting unnecessary burden in the EU market in response to the crisis faced by the wine and spirits sector – E-001413/2025

Source: European Parliament

Question for written answer E-001413/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Anne-Sophie Frigout (PfE)

With the wine industry legitimately concerned about the international situation, Europe must also provide a response by removing disincentives to trade within the EU.

Wines and spirits especially are struggling here, with it still being easier for a vineyard to export internationally than to another Member State.

In Champagne, winegrowers who sell remotely to European citizens have to pay taxes (excise duties and VAT) for each destination country. The cost is so high and the procedures so complex that many winegrowers simply do not bother.

This barrier to trade persists, even though online sales are going through the roof and consumers now look to have a direct link with producers.

Since 2021, there has been a threshold below which internal EU sales to private individuals are treated for tax purposes as sales in France. Above this threshold, a one-stop shop facilitates the return and payment of VAT in the Member States. This initiative to simplify trade between EU countries could be replicated for excise duties on alcohol.

Will the Commission introduce such a measure in order to facilitate exports between Member States and respond to the crisis faced by this sector?

Submitted: 7.4.2025

Last updated: 15 April 2025

MIL OSI Europe News –

April 15, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Clarification on the Commission’s position regarding the COVID-19 lab leak theory – E-001403/2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-001403/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Christine Anderson (ESN)

Multiple Western intelligence sources and legislative bodies have revived the theory that COVID-19 may have originated from a laboratory incident in China.

– The US Central Intelligence Agency now considers a lab leak to be a plausible origin, though with low confidence.

– In 2020, Germany’s Federal Intelligence Service reportedly assessed that there was an 80–90 % likelihood of an accidental lab leak.

– A 2024 US Congressional report concluded that the virus ‘likely emerged due to a laboratory or research-related mishap’, further revealing that gain-of-function research funded by the National Institute of Health was conducted at the Wuhan Institute of Virology prior to the outbreak.

Although no scientific consensus has emerged so far, these developments raise serious questions about biosafety, research funding oversight and international accountability.

In this context, I seek clarification on the following points:

1.Has the Commission reviewed or reassessed its position on the origins of COVID-19 in light of recent intelligence findings by US and German authorities?

2.Has any EU-funded research directly or indirectly supported the Wuhan Institute of Virology or other institutions engaged in high-risk virological work prior to the pandemic?

3.What measures is the Commission taking to ensure greater transparency, traceability and safety in EU-funded research involving gain-of-function or dual-use biological experiments, both within the EU and internationally?

Submitted: 7.4.2025
Last updated: 15 April 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
April 15, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Commission’s stance on improving road safety by introducing photoluminescent lane markings throughout the EU – E-001415/2025

Source: European Parliament

Question for written answer E-001415/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Ştefan Muşoiu (S&D)

Investing in research and innovation means ensuring a better future for Europe and its citizens. These placements of capital help us compete internationally and preserve our unique social model. Our research findings improve the daily lives of millions of citizens, helping to surmount many major societal challenges. It is also true that the Union is open to adopting the latest technologies developed outside its borders if they prove to be effective in increasing levels of comfort and well-being.

One such investment in external technology is that of photoluminescent lane markings. This special type of marking absorbs light during the daytime and emits light at night, making it easier for drivers to see, especially on poorly-lit roads and in remote areas. These luminous markings therefore not only improve traffic guidance, but are made of a durable photoluminescent material and do not require an external energy source in order to work.

Given that they are a sustainable alternative to conventional road lighting and are also resistant to extreme weather conditions, and because they reduce the impact on the environment, what is the Commission’s stance on improving road safety by introducing photoluminescent lane markings throughout the EU?

Submitted: 7.4.2025

Last updated: 15 April 2025

MIL OSI Europe News –

April 15, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: EU Fact Sheets – The institutions of the Economic and Monetary Union – 14-04-2025

Source: European Parliament

The institutions of the Economic and Monetary Union (EMU) are largely responsible for establishing European monetary policy, rules governing the issuing of the euro and price stability within the EU. These institutions are: the European Central Bank (ECB), the European System of Central Banks (ESCB), the Economic and Financial Committee, the Eurogroup and the Economic and Financial Affairs Council (Ecofin).

MIL OSI Europe News –

April 15, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Heavy rain weather warning – advice and information
Source: Northern Ireland Direct

Date published: 15 April 2025

There is a heavy rain weather warning in some areas for Wednesday 16 April. Travel delays, difficult driving conditions, flooding, and power cuts possible. The Flooding Incident Line number is 0300 2000 100.

Weather warning

The Met Office has sent out a weather warning for heavy rain.

Weather warnings let the public and emergency services know about potentially hazardous conditions.

You can find out more about weather warnings on the Met Office website.

Emergency numbers

You should note the following numbers in case of emergency:

There is information about emergencies at this link:

The Flooding Incident Line is available 24 hours a day, every day. You can report flooding problems on roads, burst water mains and blocked drains.

When you phone 0300 2000 100, a member of staff will:
- take your details
- contact the appropriate agency on your behalf
This is a non-emergency number, so if you are in danger call the emergency services on 999.

You can get more information about flooding at the following link:

Plan your journey

You should always plan your journey and check the latest weather and travel advice.

Ask yourself if you can delay your journey until conditions improve.

If you do travel, plan your journey carefully and allow extra time.

Power cuts

If adverse weather causes power cuts, you can get the latest information at this link:

If your power is off and you want to report it or get more information, contact:

Financial help if your house floods

If your home is flooded due to heavy rainfall, contact the local council and ask about their emergency payments scheme.

Report a fallen tree or blocked road

You can report a fallen tree or blocked road at the following link:

Or by phoning 0300 200 7899.

Roads information

If there are any problems on the roads because of flooding, you can get the latest updates on the TrafficwatchNI website.

Public transport

You can find the latest information about bus and rail services on the Translink website.

Local council services

If local council services are affected by adverse weather, the latest information should be available on council websites.

Preparing for a flood

To help reduce the impact of flooding on your home, you should:
- have some sandbags, floodboards, or plastic covers prepared to block doorways and airbricks
- know where to turn off your electricity and/ or gas
- move your valuable belongings to safety
- make sure your insurance provides cover against flood damage to property
- keep a list of useful contact numbers such as your local council, emergency services, and your insurance company
You can get more details on the preparing for a flood page.

Driving and walking in flooded areas

You should always plan your journey and check the latest weather and travel advice.

Do not travel in heavy rainstorms unless absolutely necessary.

In flooded areas, drivers should:
- not enter flood water that is moving or is more than four inches deep
- not drive through fast-flowing water under any circumstances as the car could be swept away
In more shallow but passable water:
- slow down
- avoid creating bow waves which can damage your car engine
and
- remember to test the brakes after leaving the water
Be aware of hidden dangers under the water, such as missing manhole covers, and guard against the possibility of falling into fast-flowing water.

Do not try to walk through flooded areas. Even shallow water moving fast can sweep you off your feet and there may be hidden dangers, such as:
- open drains
- damaged road surfaces
- submerged debris
or
- deep channels which can result in serious injury or, in the worst cases, death
If you do become stranded in flood water and you feel there is a risk to life, dial 999 for emergency help.

Insurance claims after a flood

If you are going to report flood damage to your insurance company there are certain things to remember.

You should keep a record of the flood damage and any contact you have with the insurance company.

If you have different insurers for the structure of your home and your contents, make sure you contact both.

If you live in rented accommodation, the landlord will deal with the structure of your home. For contents claims, contact your own insurer.

You can find out more at this link:

Preventing health problems

The risk of becoming ill after contact with flood water is generally low.

However, as it is not always clear whether flood water is contaminated, you should assume that it is and take appropriate precautions.

There are things you can do to prevent health problems if your home floods:
- wherever possible try to avoid coming into direct contact with flood water
- do not let children play in flood water
- use rubber gloves when cleaning up
- wash hands after being in contact with flood water, sewage or anything contaminated by these
- wash children’s hands regularly
- clean toys that have been in flood water with disinfectant
- cover cuts or open sores
- don’t eat any food that has been in contact with flood water
- clean all surfaces with disinfectant before any food is placed on them
Contact your GP if you, or someone you know, develops a stomach upset following flooding.

More useful links
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
April 15, 2025

Category: Europe

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Updates to this page

Weather warning

Emergency numbers

Plan your journey

Power cuts

Financial help if your house floods

Report a fallen tree or blocked road

Roads information

Public transport

Local council services

Preparing for a flood

Driving and walking in flooded areas

Insurance claims after a flood

Preventing health problems

More useful links

Dunball Sluice £9.7 million upgrade completed 