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Category: European Union

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Abuse of military force will increase conflicts – Chinese FM

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    PARIS, July 5 (Xinhua) — War is not a solution to the Iranian nuclear issue, and preemptive strikes obviously have no legitimacy, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, a member of the Politburo of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and a member of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said at a joint press conference with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot on Friday, stressing that the abuse of military force will only lead to further conflicts and hatred.

    Asked about the situation in the Middle East, Wang Yi noted that the Iranian nuclear issue could serve as an example of resolving international disputes through dialogue and negotiations, but now it is sliding into a new round of the Middle East crisis. China is watching what is happening with regret, the minister said, adding that the lessons of these events should be carefully understood.

    China’s position on the Iranian nuclear issue is clear and consistent, Wang Yi said. China attaches great importance to the repeated public commitments of Iran’s top leader to renounce developing nuclear weapons, he added. At the same time, China respects Iran’s right to peaceful use of nuclear energy as a party to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, the Foreign Minister emphasized.

    On this basis, relevant parties can speed up negotiations on a new international agreement to resolve the Iranian nuclear issue and fully place Iran’s nuclear activities under the strict control and protection of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Wang said, saying the road to peace lies ahead and history will test the sincerity of all parties.

    The recent military conflicts between Israel and Iran should not be repeated, the minister said, adding that the United States had set a negative precedent by openly firing on the nuclear facilities of a sovereign state.

    Wang Yi warned that if such actions lead to a nuclear catastrophe, the entire world would bear the consequences.

    The thesis of “peace through strength” is based on the logic of the politics of force, the minister said, calling for consideration of what will happen to rules and justice if only force dictates what is good and what is evil.

    Power cannot bring true peace. On the contrary, it can open Pandora’s box, Wang Yi added, asking how less powerful countries, especially small and medium ones, should survive.

    A genuine resolution to the situation with Iran’s nuclear program cannot bypass the key element of the Middle East problem, namely the Palestinian issue, the Foreign Minister said, adding that the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza must not continue any longer.

    The Palestinian issue cannot be put on the back burner, the legitimate aspirations of the Arab people should be realized as soon as possible, and the fair voice of the entire Islamic world should be heard, Wang Yi said.

    A two-state solution remains the only realistic way to break the cycle of chaos in the Middle East, and the international community must take more concrete and effective measures to advance it, he said.

    China and France, as permanent members of the UN Security Council, should uphold justice, shoulder responsibility, support the resolution of conflicts through dialogue and negotiations, oppose any double standards, and determine their positions and policies based on their understanding of what is right and what is wrong in a given situation, Wang Yi stressed.

    The UN and its Security Council should play their due role in consolidating peace, the foreign minister said, adding that China is ready to work with France to make unremitting efforts to achieve this goal. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    July 5, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Update on policing in London following proscription of Palestine Action

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Palestine Action has now been proscribed by the UK Government and expressing support for them is a criminal offence in the UK.

    There are a number of events taking place in London this weekend and anyone attending should be aware that officers policing these will act where criminal offences, including those related to support of proscribed groups or organisations, are committed.

    Under the Terrorism Act 2000 (TACT), the Home Secretary may proscribe an organisation if they believe it is concerned in terrorism and it is proportionate to do so.

    Proscription makes it a criminal offence to invite or express support for a proscribed organisation through chanting, wearing clothing or display articles such as flags, signs or logos.

    You can read more about proscribed groups or organisations on the UK Government website.

    It is a criminal offence to:

    • belong, or profess to belong, to a proscribed organisation in the UK or overseas (Section 11 TACT)
    • invite support for a proscribed organisation (Section 12(1A) TACT)
    • express an opinion or belief that is supportive of a proscribed organisation (Section 12(1A) TACT)
    • arrange, manage or assist in arranging or managing a meeting in the knowledge that the meeting is to support or further the activities of a proscribed organisation, or is to be addressed by a person who belongs or professes to (Section 12(2) TACT)
    • wear clothing or carry or display articles in public in such a way or in such circumstances as to arouse reasonable suspicion that the individual is a member or supporter of a proscribed organisation (Section 13 TACT)
    • publish an image of an item of clothing or other article, such as a flag or logo, in the same circumstances (Section 13(1A) TACT)

    If you have any concerns during an event speak to a police officer or event steward.

    If you see material supporting terrorism online report it – visit www.gov.uk/ACT

    You can also report suspicious activity by contacting the police in confidence on 0800 789 321.

    In an emergency, or if you need urgent police assistance, you should always dial 999.

    MIL Security OSI –

    July 5, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Update on policing in London following proscription of Palestine Action

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Palestine Action has now been proscribed by the UK Government and expressing support for them is a criminal offence in the UK.

    There are a number of events taking place in London this weekend and anyone attending should be aware that officers policing these will act where criminal offences, including those related to support of proscribed groups or organisations, are committed.

    Under the Terrorism Act 2000 (TACT), the Home Secretary may proscribe an organisation if they believe it is concerned in terrorism and it is proportionate to do so.

    Proscription makes it a criminal offence to invite or express support for a proscribed organisation through chanting, wearing clothing or display articles such as flags, signs or logos.

    You can read more about proscribed groups or organisations on the UK Government website.

    It is a criminal offence to:

    • belong, or profess to belong, to a proscribed organisation in the UK or overseas (Section 11 TACT)
    • invite support for a proscribed organisation (Section 12(1A) TACT)
    • express an opinion or belief that is supportive of a proscribed organisation (Section 12(1A) TACT)
    • arrange, manage or assist in arranging or managing a meeting in the knowledge that the meeting is to support or further the activities of a proscribed organisation, or is to be addressed by a person who belongs or professes to (Section 12(2) TACT)
    • wear clothing or carry or display articles in public in such a way or in such circumstances as to arouse reasonable suspicion that the individual is a member or supporter of a proscribed organisation (Section 13 TACT)
    • publish an image of an item of clothing or other article, such as a flag or logo, in the same circumstances (Section 13(1A) TACT)

    If you have any concerns during an event speak to a police officer or event steward.

    If you see material supporting terrorism online report it – visit www.gov.uk/ACT

    You can also report suspicious activity by contacting the police in confidence on 0800 789 321.

    In an emergency, or if you need urgent police assistance, you should always dial 999.

    MIL Security OSI –

    July 5, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Murder investigation launched after 85-year-old dies in Streatham

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A murder investigation has been launched after an 85-year-old man was found dead at a property in Lambeth.

    Officers were called at around 13:00hrs on Friday, 4 July, by the London Ambulance Service to an address in Churchmore Road, Streatham. The male had sustained a number of injuries

    Despite the best efforts of emergency services to save his life, the man was sadly pronounced dead at the scene. Formal identification has yet to take place.

    A 36-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder. He remains in custody.

    A post-mortem examination will take place in due course.

    DCI Sarah Lee, from Specialist Crime South – who is leading on the investigation – said:

    “We are working hard to piece together the events that unfolded in Churchmore Road yesterday, and offer our heartfelt condolences to the family of the victim and those affected by this tragic incident.

    “I would like to thank that those that are speaking to police and supporting the investigation already. We will continue to have an increased presence in the area whilst we continue our enquiries.

    “We are not currently looking for any other suspects.”

    Anybody with information can contact the police on 101, quoting crime reference 3581/04JUL.

    To remain 100% anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

    MIL Security OSI –

    July 5, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Winnie Ho visits Barcelona

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Housing Winnie Ho met Deputy Mayor of Barcelona Jordi Valls Riera to discuss matters including housing policy and construction technologies as she began a two-day visit to the Spanish city yesterday.

     

    Ms Ho met the deputy mayor, who oversees housing policy, economic affairs and tourism yesterday morning. She briefed him on the implementation of government-led Light Public Housing (LPH) projects in Hong Kong that use Modular Integrated Construction.

     

    She highlighted that the first LPH project – at Yau Pok Road, Yuen Long – took only about one year to complete, and that the first phase of the project at Choi Hing Road in Ngau Tau Kok was completed in less than 18 months, a record for the construction of high-rise buildings in Hong Kong.

     

    Ms Ho also outlined that the Housing Bureau and the Hong Kong Housing Authority are engaged in continuously optimising the city’s housing ladder to encourage more young people and families to ascend it.

     

    She mentioned that in November the bureau will organise an international symposium in Hong Kong to showcase developments in construction technologies in Mainland China and Hong Kong to the world.

     

    Later on, Ms Ho visited a social housing project, Modulus Matrix: 85 Social Housing, where timber frames were used to reduce carbon emissions and a modular design was adopted to shorten construction time.

     

    Ms Ho then toured another social housing project, APROP-Glòries, in which converted containers are used to provide temporary accommodation to people in need.

     

    Ms Ho highlighted that governments of both Hong Kong and Barcelona are dedicated to increasing their housing supply through swift and pragmatic measures, and to providing accommodation to families with urgent housing needs.

     

    She added that she hoped the two places will continue to share experiences on relevant initiatives.

     

    Ms Ho then paid a courtesy call on Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Barcelona Meng Yuhong, and briefed her on the various housing initiatives being implemented by the bureau.

     

    These include leveraging the strengths of the Mainland cities in the Greater Bay Area to promote the development of housing construction technologies.

     

    Today, the housing chief visited another social housing project, 72 Social Housing Units, to learn about its design characteristics and energy-efficient living environment.

     

    In concluding her trip, Ms Ho observed that Hong Kong enjoys the unique advantage of having the strong support of the motherland while maintaining unparalleled connectivity with the world, as well as the strategic geographical benefit of being connected to the bay area.

     

    She added that the visit had demonstrated how Hong Kong is giving full play to its roles as a super connector and super value-adder.

     

    “I look forward to maintaining close exchanges with Portugal and Spain in areas including innovative construction technologies, people-oriented ‘Well-being design’ concepts and sustainable smart city development, and exploring further collaboration to create more opportunities for the industries and enterprises of the three places.”

     

    Ms Ho will return to Hong Kong tomorrow morning.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    July 5, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Audience with teachers of Catholic schools in Ireland, England, Wales and Scotland, and with young people from the diocese of Copenhagen

    Source: The Holy See

    Audience with teachers of Catholic schools in Ireland, England, Wales and Scotland, and with young people from the diocese of Copenhagen, 05.07.2025
    This morning, in the Clementine Hall of the Vatican Apostolic Palace, the Holy Father Leo XIV received in audience teachers of Catholic schools in Ireland, England, Wales and Scotland, and with young people from the diocese of Copenhagen.
    The following is the Pope’s greeting to those present during the course of the meeting:

    Greeting of the Holy Father
    In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.
    Peace be with you!
    Good morning and welcome to the Vatican.
    Your Excellencies,Dear priests and young friends,
    I am pleased to greet all of you on the occasion of your pilgrimage to Rome during this Jubilee Year, which as you know is focused on the theological virtue of hope.  In particular, I welcome the young people from the Diocese of Copenhagen, which is this group, together with the teachers from Ireland, England, Wales and Scotland.
    You are following in the footsteps of countless pilgrims from your various countries, who for centuries have been making this same pilgrimage to Rome, to the “Eternal City”.  Indeed, Rome has always been a special home for Christians, since it is the place where the Apostles Peter and Paul gave the supreme witness to their love for Jesus by offering their lives as martyrs.  As the Successor of Peter, I wish to express my gratitude for your presence here, and I pray that by visiting the various holy sites you may draw inspiration and hope from the profound example of how the saints and martyrs imitated Christ.
    A pilgrimage has a vital part to play in our life of faith, for it removes us from our homes and our daily routines, and gives us time and space to encounter God more deeply.  Such moments always help us to grow, for through them the Holy Spirit gently fashions us to be ever more closely conformed to the mind and the heart of Jesus Christ.
    In a particular way, dear brothers and sisters, young people gathered with us this morning, remember that God has created each one of you with a purpose and a mission in this life.  Use this opportunity for listening, for prayer, so that you may hear more clearly God’s voice calling you deep within your hearts. I would add that today, so often, we lose the ability to listen, to really listen. We listen to music, we have our ears flooded constantly with all kinds of digital input, but sometimes we forget to listen to our own hearts and it’s in our hearts that God speaks to us, that God calls us and invites us to know him better and to live in his love. And through that listening you might be open to allowing God’s grace to strengthen your faith in Jesus (cf. Col 2:7), so that you might more readily share that gift with others.
    And addressing you, dear teachers: what I have just said to the young people applies equally to you, especially given your important role in the formation of today’s youth: children, teenagers, young adults. For they will look up to you as models: models in life, models of faith. They’ll look to you particularly as to how you teach and how you live.  I hope that, each day, you will nurture your relationship with Christ, who gives us the pattern of all authentic teaching (cf Mt 7:28), so that, in turn, you may guide and encourage those entrusted to your care to follow Christ in their own lives.
    And finally, when all of you return home, please remember that a pilgrimage does not end, it shifts its focus to the daily “pilgrimage of discipleship”. We are all pilgrims and we are always pilgrims, walking as we seek to follow the Lord, and as we seek the path that is truly ours in life. That’s certainly not easy, but with the help of the Lord, the intercession of the saints, and by encouraging one another, you can be certain that, as long as you remain faithful, trusting always in God’s mercy, the experience of this pilgrimage will continue to bear fruit throughout your lives (cf. Jn 15:16).
    Dear friends, with these few words, and entrusting you to the intercession of Mary, Mother of the Church, I gladly impart to each of you my heartfelt blessing.
    God bless you and thank you.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    July 5, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Chinese FM calls on China, France to uphold multilateralism and free trade rules

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    PARIS, July 5 (Xinhua) — China and France should uphold multilateralism and defend free trade rules in the face of unilateral bullying that undermines the international order, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said here on Friday during talks with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot.

    He noted that under the strategic guidance of the two heads of state, China and France have maintained high-level exchanges, strengthened strategic coordination, and deepened mutual understanding and trust.

    Beijing and Paris successfully held meetings of the China-France high-level people-to-people exchange mechanism and called for using both civilizations to promote mutual learning and remove artificial barriers, Wang said.

    This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in the World Anti-Fascist War and the founding of the UN, the minister noted. Over the past 80 years, China and France have made the right strategic choices at key historical moments, and have jointly influenced and shaped global development, demonstrating the strategic and forward-looking nature of interstate relations, he added.

    In the face of the negative impact of unilateral bullying on the international order, China and France, as permanent members of the UN Security Council and large independent countries, should shoulder the mission of the times, uphold the practice of multilateralism, defend the rules of free trade, and work together to shoulder the responsibility for world peace, contribute to global development and promote the progress of mankind, Wang Yi said.

    He also expressed confidence that the French side will continue to adhere to the one-China principle and protect the political foundation of bilateral relations.

    Wang Yi called on the two sides to continue to deepen cooperation in traditional key areas such as nuclear energy, aviation and astronautics, and expand cooperation in new areas such as artificial intelligence, green energy, biotechnology and the silver economy.

    According to him, China encourages its competitive companies to invest in the French economy and hopes that the French side will provide them with a fair, transparent, non-discriminatory and predictable business environment.

    In turn, Jean-Néon Barrot said that in today’s complex international situation, Franco-Chinese and European-Chinese relations should provide the world with more energy of stability and rationality. Paris and Beijing maintain close high-level exchanges, have achieved positive results in practical cooperation and humanitarian exchanges, the head of the Foreign Ministry added.

    According to him, both France and China adhere to multilateralism. Paris hopes to strengthen ties and cooperation with Beijing to jointly solve global problems, the minister emphasized.

    The French government has a one-China policy and this position remains unchanged, said Jean-Nicolas Barrot. France attaches great importance to the partnership between the EU and China and hopes to take advantage of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the EU and China as an opportunity to deepen cooperation, he added.

    The parties also exchanged views on the Ukrainian crisis and the Iranian nuclear issue. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    July 5, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Video: President Ramaphosa’s opening remarks during the official talks of the Austrian State Visit to SA.

    Source: Republic of South Africa (video statements)

    President Ramaphosa’s opening remarks during the official talks of the Austrian State Visit to SA.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8UvYLewFyTI

    MIL OSI Video –

    July 5, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Video: President Ramaphosa welcomes President Alexander van der Bellen of Austria, at the Union Buildings.

    Source: Republic of South Africa (video statements)

    President Ramaphosa welcomes President Alexander van der Bellen of Austria, at the Union Building.

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

    MIL OSI Video –

    July 5, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Portsoy rocks helping to unlock understanding of the moon Rocks from an Aberdeenshire coastal village are helping scientists to develop equipment which could enable astronauts to investigate the surface of the moon.

    Source: University of Aberdeen

    Rocks from an Aberdeenshire coastal village are helping scientists to develop equipment which could enable astronauts to investigate the surface of the moon.
    Portsoy has long been known for its important geological features but now researchers from the University of Aberdeen are using the rare assembly of rock types found in the harbour area to replicate lunar geology.
    It is the test bed for a collaboration between academics, space agencies and mineral exploration companies which aims to create a hand-held instrument for astronauts that could one day allow them to make analysis of rocks on the moon.
    The moon has an inner core made up of pyroxenite, while the outer region is composed largely of anorthosite and gabbro. Meteorite strikes in the geological past are thought to have caused deep impacts that brought pyroxenite to the surface.
    These three rocks occur within close proximity at Portsoy and researchers from the University of Aberdeen are taking advantage of this rare ‘geological combination’ to gain an understanding of how an instrument for the moon could be used and to demonstrate its application.
    Professor John Parnell, who is leading the project at Aberdeen, said: “Exploration of the moon focuses on two key areas – evidence of traces of water and the potential for minerals including nickel.
    “Portsoy is in a select position to help us develop equipment to test for that and gain the understanding we need here on Earth.
    “It is the closest replica we have ever found to lunar geology. There are three particular rocks that characterise the moon surface – pyroxenite, gabbro and anorthosite. These three rocks all occur in Portsoy and really conveniently can all be found in the harbour area.”
    The gabbro at Portsoy contains the mineral olivine, which when exposed to water is converted into a complex multi-coloured mineral called serpentine.
    The scientists are designing systems which can look at olivine and see if traces of serpentine are contained within it. This would indicate if there has been water present in the past – a question crucial to lunar exploration.
    Dr Joe Armstrong, Lecturer and Interdisciplinary Fellow at the University of Aberdeen, added: “People visiting Portsoy will be familiar with ‘Portsoy marble’ historically quarried to the west of the town and often picked up as a souvenir. This ‘marble’ is actually the metamorphic rock serpentinite, composed predominantly of the serpentine group minerals we are interested in.
    “This long-time staple of the area’s gift shops is part of the assemblage that could provide new answers about geological conditions on the moon. This is key to unlocking understanding of the moon’s potential resources – a key area of focus for current space missions.
    “We have been using rocks at Portsoy for decades to teach our students as the area is known for its geological importance but this is the first time they have been used to further space exploration in this way.”
    The Aberdeen geologists are using the results from Portsoy to feed into an international collaboration involving the universities of Leicester and Madrid, the British Space Agency and European Space Agency with further input from the private sector in the UK and beyond.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    July 5, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: S for Housing visits Barcelona (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Secretary for Housing, Ms Winnie Ho, commenced her visit to Barcelona, Spain, yesterday (July 4, Barcelona time).
     
         In the morning, Ms Ho met with Deputy Mayor of Barcelona Mr Jordi Valls Riera, who oversees housing policies, economic affairs and tourism matters. They exchanged views on areas such as housing policies and construction technologies. Ms Ho shared Hong Kong’s experience in expeditiously building government-led Light Public Housing (LPH) using Modular Integrated Construction (MiC). For instance, the first LPH project at Yau Pok Road, Yuen Long, took only about one year to complete. As for the Choi Hing Road project in Ngau Tau Kok, which is the first 19-storey LPH project with elevators, its first phase was completed in less than one and a half years, breaking the record for rapid construction of high-rise buildings in Hong Kong. She also shared that the Housing Bureau (HB) and the Hong Kong Housing Authority (HKHA) have been continuously optimising Hong Kong’s housing ladder to encourage more young people and families to move up the housing ladder. She mentioned that the HB will organise an international symposium to be held in Hong Kong in November this year, to showcase to the world the latest developments of construction technologies in Mainland China and Hong Kong. She expressed hope that friends from around the world could attend the symposium.
     
         Afterwards, Ms Ho visited a social housing project, Modulus Matrix: 85 Social Housing, which used timber frame construction to reduce carbon emissions and a modular design to shorten construction time.
     
         In the afternoon, Ms Ho toured a social housing project, APROP-Glòries, which was converted from containers to provide temporary accommodation to people in need. Ms Ho said that both the Hong Kong and Barcelona governments are dedicated to increasing their housing supply with swift and pragmatic approaches, and providing accommodation to families with urgent housing needs. She said she hoped that the two places would continue holding close exchanges on relevant initiatives.
     
         Ms Ho then paid a courtesy call on the Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Barcelona, Ms Meng Yuhong, to share with her various housing initiatives being implemented by the HB, which include promoting the development of housing construction technologies by leveraging the strengths of the Mainland cities of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA).
     
         Ms Ho today (July 5, Barcelona time) visited another social housing project, 72 Social Housing Units, to see its architectural design that creates a simple, livable and energy-efficient living environment.
     
         Concluding the trip, Ms Ho said, “Hong Kong enjoys the unique advantage of having the strong support of the motherland while maintaining unparalleled connectivity with the world, as well as the strategic geographical location of being connected to the GBA. This visit demonstrated how Hong Kong gives full play to its important roles as a ‘super connector’ and ‘super value-adder’. I look forward to maintaining close exchanges with Portugal and Spain in areas including innovative construction technologies, people-oriented ‘Well-being design’ concepts and sustainable smart city development, and exploring further collaboration to create more opportunities for the industries and enterprises of the three places.”
     
         Ms Ho will return to Hong Kong tomorrow morning (July 6).

                        

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    July 5, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Personal thank you to NHS worker from Prime Minister

    Source: United Kingdom – Prime Minister’s Office 10 Downing Street

    Press release

    Personal thank you to NHS worker from Prime Minister

    To mark the 77th anniversary of the NHS, the Prime Minister has met and personally thanked the NHS worker who looked after his brother.

    Watch here: Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s message to the NHS on its 77th birthday

    To mark the 77th anniversary of the NHS, the Prime Minister has met and personally thanked the NHS worker who looked after his brother with compassion, care and respect during his final battle with cancer. 

    In a new video released by No10 today, the Prime Minister meets with Advance Nurse Practitioner Ben Huntly who provided expert care to his brother during the final weeks of his life, before he passed away on Boxing Day last year, and to discuss his family ties with the NHS. 

    The video reunites patients with the hard-working NHS carers that looked after them and their loved ones through the darkest of times.  

    In special conversations that took place in Downing Street, cancer survivors speak about the workers who cared for them as the ‘most precious person’ and ‘a joy in the hardest of times’.   

    The Prime Minister shares their gratitude and describes the support his brother receives as a ‘lifeline’, and highlights how cared and respected Ben made his brother feel.  

    The Prime Minister has a deep personal connection to the NHS. Not only did it provide high quality care for his mother and brother when they were in need, but it is where his mother, sister and wife have all worked.  

    The Prime Minister says: 

    “My mum worked in the NHS and then she was very, very ill, for most of her life. And the NHS became our absolute lifeline. My sister worked for the NHS, my wife works for the NHS and it was the NHS that looked after my brother who we lost last Boxing Day to cancer. 

    “Ben, you looked after him. I think from the moment he was in all the way through and you made sure that he felt cared for and respected. 

    “That meant a huge amount to me and my family and, on all of our behalf. I say through you a very special thank you to the NHS.” 

    Ben was one of a number of NHS workers invited to Downing Street this week for a special reception to celebrate the work of the public sector; including nurses, doctors, paramedics, police officers, emergency call handlers, prison officers, firefighters, RNLI volunteers, teachers and other school workers, border force officers, members of the armed forces, and veterans. 

    As part of its Plan for Change, the government is putting an extra £29 billion per year into the day to day running of the health service and is working to bring waiting lists down, to build an NHS fit for the future. 

    This week the Prime Minister launched the government’s 10 Year Health Plan to make the NHS fit for the future, standing alongside NHS staff at a health centre in Stratford. 

    Built in direct consultation with staff and patients, the plan outlines how the government will fundamentally rewire our health system to make sure it sets staff up to succeed, harnessing new technology to free up their time, and empowering local leaders who know how best to deliver for their communities. 

    The plan will build on the progress already made in the last year with over 4 million extra appointments delivered, 1,900 more GPs recruited, and waiting lists at their lowest level in two years.

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    Published 5 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    July 5, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China and France should be forces of stability, openness, inclusiveness and unity – Wang Yi

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    PARIS, July 5 (Xinhua) — Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Friday called on China and France to act as forces of stability, openness, inclusiveness and unity. He made the remarks at a joint press conference with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot.

    According to him, the two sides held talks and jointly chaired the 7th meeting of the China-France high-level people-to-people exchange mechanism. During the meeting, a profound, positive and frank exchange of views took place on China-France and China-EU relations, and a number of important consensuses were reached.

    Both sides agreed that in the complex and unstable international environment, major countries should shoulder greater responsibilities. As permanent members of the UN Security Council, China and France should adhere to the fundamental principles of the UN Charter, maintain the spirit of independence and self-reliance on which their diplomatic relations are based, and jointly contribute to world peace, stability and development, Wang Yi stressed.

    First, China and France should strengthen strategic ties and act as forces of stability. Second, they should develop win-win cooperation and act as forces of openness. Third, Beijing and Paris should promote people-to-people and cultural exchanges and act as forces of inclusiveness. Fourth, the two countries should strengthen multilateral coordination and act as forces of unity, Wang said.

    China will continue to work with France to uphold the international system with the UN at its core and support each other’s initiatives in multilateral cooperation, he added.

    The minister noted that this year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and the European Union. China firmly supports European integration, welcomes France’s efforts to strengthen the EU’s strategic autonomy, and is ready to work with France to promote the sustainable development of China-EU relations, Wang Yi concluded. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    July 5, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: Hainan emerges as China’s premier international medical tourism destination

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

    HAIKOU, July 5 — Nestled in the coastal town of Boao in south China’s Hainan Province, the Boao Lecheng International Medical Tourism Pilot Zone is rapidly becoming a leading hub for health and innovation in China, drawing increasing attention from around the world.

    Hailed as China’s sole “medical special zone,” the pilot zone is home to over 30 top-tier domestic and international medical institutions. Thanks to special policy support, the medical zone has introduced 485 advanced medicines and medical devices approved overseas but not yet available in the domestic market, benefiting over 130,000 patients.

    Plagued by growing lumps on his chest and back that interfered with his work, Canadian figure skating coach Mark Batka chose to undergo surgery during a four-day wellness trip to the pilot zone.

    “In Canada, it is more expensive, and also it takes time to book it. And I was here, so I thought I would give it a try and I was very happy and I think it went very well,” he said.

    Mark is just one of many international visitors who have benefited from the medical zone’s services, which go beyond world-class treatments to offer a holistic experience, ranging from premium health check-ups and a fusion of traditional Chinese and Western therapies to cultural activities like incense appreciation, tea ceremonies and calligraphy.

    The Boao Yiling Life Care Center, a premier integrated medical service provider within the medical zone, offers a wide range of services like health management, disease prevention, specialized treatments, rehabilitation, and mental wellness.

    Janet Wong, who is part of the Canadian wellness tour group with Mark, said she was astounded by the high-end health check-up she received at the life care center.

    “We were so amazed right from the start when we arrived,” she said, adding that the treatments were excellent and the medical check-up was incredibly thorough.

    “In some ways, it does feel like a vacation,” said Stephanie Wing See Yau, another member of the Canadian group, praising the center as a truly top-notch facility.

    “It’s very impressive how they put all these treatments in one place,” she said, noting that it’s refreshing to see a focus on overall wellness, not just physical, but mental as well. She described the medical tour as a great experience and said she would definitely recommend it to her friends.

    As part of its push to become the “capital of medical tourism,” the pilot zone has launched 25 specialized routes tailored to diverse needs, from traditional Chinese medicine and chronic disease management to luxury diagnostics and cosmetic rehabilitation, gaining growing popularity worldwide. It has also become a key platform supporting Hainan’s efforts to build an international hub for tourism and consumption.

    In 2024, the pilot zone attracted over 410,000 medical visitors, up 36.76 percent year on year. So far this year, the medical zone has already welcomed 188,300 medical tourists from countries including Canada, Spain, Russia, Uzbekistan and Cuba.

    Kareldus Agas, director of International Tourism Promotion, Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy of Indonesia, was deeply impressed by the comprehensive services in Lecheng after experiencing health projects featuring traditional Chinese cultural activities like calligraphy and Chinese cupping.

    He said Lecheng offered not only cutting-edge medical services but also a seamless blend of relaxation, wellness and spiritual healing, creating a truly remarkable experience. Even without the need for medical treatment, he expressed a strong desire to return, simply to enjoy the unique sense of relaxation it provides.

    The medical zone has established partnerships with over 180 pharmaceutical and medical device companies from 20 countries, ensuring access to advanced international medical services for both domestic and international visitors, said He Ying, an official with the medical tourism department of the Boao Lecheng International Medical Tourism Pilot Zone Administration.

    He added that the zone will continue to strengthen its service platforms and international reception capabilities, with the goal of becoming a world-class medical tourism destination.

    As part of its broader economic strategy, China is building Hainan into a Free Trade Port and aims to transform the province into a globally influential tourism and consumption destination by 2035.

    MIL OSI China News –

    July 5, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China, France agree to promote multilateralism and bring more certainty to the world

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    PARIS, July 5 (Xinhua) — French President Emmanuel Macron on Friday met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, calling for jointly advancing multilateralism and strengthening coordination in combating hegemonic conflicts and bloc confrontation.

    During the meeting at the Elysee Palace, E. Macron asked Wang Yi to convey his best wishes and friendly greetings to Chinese President Xi Jinping.

    The French leader noted that France and China have broad consensus on many important issues, including support for multilateralism and respect for international law. Both countries are permanent members of the UN Security Council and bear special responsibilities in the context of increasing uncertainty and instability in the world.

    According to him, the French side hopes to strengthen political coordination with China on international economic, financial and global governance issues, as well as jointly counter global challenges, inject vitality into multilateralism and prevent the world from plunging into hegemonic conflicts and bloc confrontation.

    E. Macron stressed that on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations, the European Union (EU) and China must make a strategic choice to become predictable and reliable friends and partners for each other. France attaches great importance to the development of French-Chinese relations and welcomes increased Chinese investment to build more balanced economic and trade ties.

    Wang Yi conveyed warm greetings from Xi Jinping to Macron and noted that China is willing to work with France to implement the important consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries, pave the way for future high-level contacts and deepen all-round cooperation.

    He stressed that China and France are comprehensive strategic partners and two major stabilizing forces in the world. The more turbulent the world is, the more the strategic value of China-France relations is emphasized, the Chinese diplomat added.

    China is willing to strengthen strategic communication and joint cooperation with France, jointly uphold multilateralism, oppose unilateral pressure and resist bloc confrontation, so as to bring more certainty and predictability to a changing and unstable world, promote equitable and orderly multipolarity as well as inclusive and win-win economic globalization, Wang said.

    China is committed to deepening mutually beneficial cooperation with France and hopes that the French side will create more favorable and fair conditions for Chinese companies to invest and operate in France, he added.

    China and the EU have resolved the issue of brandy imports through friendly consultations, Wang said. He also hoped that France, as a key EU country, would urge the European side to properly handle the trade and economic disputes between China and the EU and actively respond to China’s concerns.

    The parties also exchanged views on the Ukrainian crisis, the situation in the Gaza Strip, the Iranian nuclear issue and other issues. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    July 5, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: German chancellor meets Chinese FM in Berlin

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

    BERLIN, July 4 — German Chancellor Friedrich Merz met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi here on Friday, pledging to work with China to uphold openness and mutual benefit, promote fair trade, and jointly address global crises and challenges.

    Merz said that such efforts serve the interests of both countries, citing the positive development of Germany-China relations and sustained progress in cooperation across various fields including politics, and economy and trade.

    Merz also reaffirmed the new German government’s adherence to the one-China policy.

    Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said that Chinese President Xi Jinping and German Chancellor Merz had recently held an important phone conversation, which has provided strategic guidance and political assurance for the development of bilateral relations.

    As a mature and successful relationship between two major countries, China-Germany ties are not targeted at, dependent on, or subject to any third party, Wang said, adding that such relationship enjoys strong internal momentum and demonstrates a high degree of stability.

    China appreciates the new German government’s constructive and pragmatic approach to advancing bilateral ties, Wang noted, adding that China stands ready to maintain close high-level exchanges and make full use of various dialogue mechanisms to promote the sustained, sound and stable development of China-Germany relations.

    This, he said, will not only serve the interests of both countries, but also contribute to the well-being of Europe and the broader international community.

    Wang also said that China is pleased to see Germany develop and prosper and play a greater role in Europe and the world.

    He expressed confidence that the new German government will take a positive view of China’s development, adhere to a rational and pragmatic policy towards China, earnestly respect China’s core interests, support China in achieving national reunification, just as China unconditionally supported German reunification back then, and continue to strictly stick to the one-China principle.

    China is committed to building a new system for a higher-level open economy, and its door to the world will only open wider, said Wang, adding that China is ready to share its market opportunities with Germany and jointly create new prospects for development.

    During the talks, the two sides also exchanged views on Ukraine crisis and agreed to maintain strategic communication to promote a peaceful resolution.

    MIL OSI China News –

    July 5, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Development is ‘the first line of defence against conflict,’ Guterres tells Security Council

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI

    Ambassadors met to debate how poverty, inequality, and underdevelopment are fuelling conflict and instability, at a time when hostilities are increasing and demand for humanitarian aid is rising as resources dwindle.  

    Every dollar spent on prevention could save up to $103 in conflict-related costs, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF). 

    Sustainable development critical

    Conflicts are proliferating and lasting longer, said Mr. Guterres. At the same time the global economy is slowing and trade tensions are rising, as aid budgets are being slashed while military spending soars. 

    He warned that if current trends continue, two thirds of the world’s poor will live in conflict-affected or fragile countries by the end of this decade. 

    “The message is clear,” he said.  “The farther a country is from sustainable and inclusive development, the closer it is to instability, and even conflict.”

    UN Photo/Evan Schneider

    Secretary-General António Guterres briefs the Security Council meeting on Poverty, Underdevelopment, and Conflict.

    Give peace a (fighting) chance

    The Secretary-General highlighted how the UN has worked to advance the three pillars of peace, development and human rights.  

    These efforts began with its establishment 80 years ago and continue today, “guided by the simple principle that prevention is the best cure for instability and conflict, and there is no better preventive measure than investing in development,” he said.

    “Development gives peace a fighting chance. It’s the first line of defence against conflict. But right now, we’re losing ground,” he said, noting that “the engine of development is sputtering.”

    World falling short

    Currently, two-thirds of the targets under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are lagging 10 years after adoption. 

    “The world is falling short by over $4 trillion annually in the resources developing countries need to deliver on these promises by 2030,” he added.

    Furthermore, “developing countries are being battered and bruised by limited fiscal space, crushing debt burdens and skyrocketing prices.”

    Fix the ‘engine’

    The Secretary-General pointed to the fourth Conference on Financing for Development, which begins next week in Spain, as an important moment “to fix and strengthen this essential engine.”

    He called for renewed commitments towards securing public and private finance for the areas of greatest need, providing urgent relief for debt-laden countries, and reforming the outdated global financial architecture.

    The Council debate “could not be more prescient,” said Kanni Wignaraja, the UN Development Programme’s (UNDP) Assistant Secretary-General and Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific.

    Break the cycle

    Global human development has stalled just as violent conflicts have surged to levels not seen in eight decades, she said, before presenting three priorities for investment to help break the cycle, including protecting household economies.

    “In fragile settings, where peace and security have been shattered, development that goes directly to the local level becomes the first line of peoples’ defence and survival. And their hope for recovery,” she said.

    “From these local economies – where livelihoods are restored, water and electricity can flow again, women’s businesses in particular reopen, farmers can trade food, and there is basic finance to allow markets to stay afloat – from this, comes the resources to build back broken capabilities and resilience.”

    Address systemic imbalances

    The Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission, Mahmoud Youssouf Ali, recalled how the continent loses billions of dollars annually to conflict, which could be channeled into schools, hospitals, infrastructure and innovation.

    He said the international community must also acknowledge that poverty and underdevelopment “are not confined within national borders” but are global challenges that require global response.

    “If we are to uphold international peace and security, we must address the systemic imbalances – economic, political, and institutional – that continue to fuel deprivation, exclusion, and instability across regions,” he said.

    In this regard, the AU called for enhanced support to African-led peace operations, particularly those deployed in regions where poverty and underdevelopment are deeply entrenched. 

    Collective action required

    The debate was convened by Guyana, which holds the rotating Council presidency this month.

    The country’s Foreign Minister, Hugh Todd, remarked that with the world “at a critical juncture where the interlinkages between peace, security and development have never been more pronounced,” collective and decisive action is required.

    He cautioned against “prioritizing only political solutions in conflicts where poverty and underdevelopment feature prominently,” as creating conditions for socio-economic stability and well-being are also critical for peace.

    Mr. Todd urged countries to address issues such as lack of access to education, underemployment, exclusion, and greater participation of women and youth.

    “Currently, the global youth population is the highest in history, with most young people concentrated in developing countries,” he said.

    “For us to harness their full potential, they must be given adequate economic opportunities and be involved in decision making on peace and security.” 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    July 5, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: ‘We are the present’: Tajik climate activist urges leaders to include youth voices in dialogue

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI

    At the end of April, Fariza Dzhobirova attended a Model United Nations Conference on Glaciers’ Preservation in Tajikistan’s capital, Dushanbe, where she represented Switzerland.

    For Ms. Dzhobirova, it was a rehearsal of sorts for the actual High-level Conference on Glaciers’ Preservation which began on Thursday in Dushanbe. There, she will serve as a panel member representing her own country.

    “The [Model UN] conference gave me a platform to raise my voice, collaborate with like-minded peers from across the region and develop policy recommendations that we hope will influence real-world decisions,” she said.

    The High-level Conference on Glaciers’ Preservation, hosted by the Government of Tajikistan and supported by a variety of United Nations agencies, will work to underline the extreme urgency of melting glaciers, elevating it as a global climate and development challenge. 

    Will glaciers survive the 21st century? 

    Glaciers, alongside ice sheets, account for over 70 per cent of the world’s freshwater resources and are integral to many local economies, providing water, sustaining agriculture and generating energy. 

    However, due to the increasing temperature of the planet, glaciers are melting at unprecedented rates – scientists predict that if the current rate of melting continues, many glaciers will not survive the 21st century.

    In Tajikistan alone, 30 per cent of glaciers have disappeared over the last century, disrupting local and national water supplies and agricultural patterns. And Slovenia and Venezuela have lost all their glaciers.

    Just yesterday, one day before the conference was set to begin, a partial glacier collapse in Switzerland buried most of a small village, according to news reports.

    “The death of a glacier is more than just the loss of ice,” said World Meteorological Organization (WMO) Secretary-General Celeste Saulo.

    Youth voices are the present and the future

    Before the conference, Parviz Boboev from the UN Country Team in Tajikistan sat down with Ms. Dzhobirova to discuss what motivates her climate activism. 

    Photo by UN Tajikistan

    Fariza Dzhobirova, a young climate activist from Tajikistan, represents Switzerland at a Model United Nations conference on glacier preservation.

    Parviz Boboev: What inspired you to get involved in the climate movement?

    Fariza Dzhobirova: Growing up in Tajikistan, where more than 90% of our freshwater comes from glaciers, I’ve seen how climate change is already impacting people’s lives. Rivers are shrinking, water is becoming less accessible, and natural disasters like landslides and floods are affecting more and more communities.

    I’ve met a family who lost their home because of mudflow. I saw a teenage girl from that family of the same age as me that had totally different problems because of this climate-related disaster. I was thinking about my classes. She was thinking about how to survive.

    My message is that young people are not just the future — we are the present, and we are ready to contribute today

    And I know there are many examples similar to this – farmers whose land can no longer be irrigated and children whose futures are at risk. Seeing this pain and injustice made it impossible for me to stay silent or uninvolved.

    Participating in the upcoming Glaciers’ Preservation conference means a lot to me. It’s about raising the voices of people who are often left out of global discussions. For me, it’s a chance to speak on behalf of my generation and my country, and to show that young people are ready to be part of the solution.

    Parviz Boboev: What message do you hope to share at the conference about the impact of climate change on your community and generation?

    Fariza Dzhobirova: Being invited to speak is a great responsibility for me. It’s a chance to represent not only Tajikistan, but the voice of a generation.

    My message is that young people are not just the future — we are the present, and we are ready to contribute today. Climate change is not only about the environment — it’s about how we live, how we work, how we learn. It affects our opportunities, our mental health, our ability to plan for the future. And yet, many young people are still excluded from decision-making processes.

    At the conference, I want to encourage leaders and policymakers to truly listen not just to the facts and data, but to the experiences and hopes of young people. When you give youth a platform, you don’t just invest in their potential — you strengthen the resilience and sustainability of entire communities.

    Parviz Boboev: Youth voices are becoming increasingly important in global climate conversations. How do you see the role of young people in shaping solutions?

    Fariza Dzhobirova: I truly believe that young people have a unique role to play in shaping more just, inclusive and forward-looking climate solutions. We bring fresh ideas, the courage to question outdated systems and a strong sense of responsibility for the future.

    In countries like Tajikistan, where glaciers are directly connected to people’s livelihoods, youth are already stepping up. What we need now is more trust and investment in young people. We don’t expect to solve everything alone, but we do hope to be included — in dialogue, in decision-making, and in designing real solutions.

    Protecting glaciers and water resources is not just a technical challenge; it’s a human one. By working together — across generations and borders — we can make our region stronger, more resilient, and more united in the face of climate change.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    July 5, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Germany’s Annalena Baerbock elected President of the 80th General Assembly

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI

    She assumes the role at a challenging time, with ongoing conflicts, faltering development goals, mounting financial pressures, and the upcoming selection of the next Secretary-General.

    Ms. Baerbock received 167 votes following the secret ballot. Fourteen delegations abstained.

    She becomes the first woman from the Western European group to hold the post and the fifth woman overall to lead the General Assembly. The presidency rotates among the world body’s five regional groups.

    At 44 years, Ms. Baerbock is also one of the youngest leaders to secure the top job.

    Crucial juncture

    Ms. Baerbock’s election comes at a critical juncture for the multilateral system, spearheaded by the United Nations.

    With the Security Council deadlocked – especially on moves to help end the wars in Ukraine and Gaza – the Assembly has become a vital forum for diplomatic engagement and consensus-building, even without binding authority on peace and security issues.

    As conflicts rage, the Assembly has passed a series of resolutions calling for ceasefires, humanitarian access and the protection of civilians.

    Many now see the Assembly as an essential platform for accountability and maintaining international focus on intractable crises, especially through the “Veto Initiative” adopted in 2022 which ensures that issues blocked by permanent members on the Security Council are debated in the Assembly as a priority.

    A power wielded by the five permanent members – China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States – a veto (or negative vote) can block Council action even when all other members support a motion.

    Pledge to be an honest broker

    In her acceptance speech, President-elect Baerbock acknowledged the current global challenges and pledged to serve as “an honest broker and a unifier” for all 193 Member States, emphasising her theme of “Better Together.”

    She outlined three priorities for her presidency: making the Organization more efficient and effective; advancing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development; and making the Assembly a “truly inclusive forum”.

    She called for a UN “that embraces everyone. I see the diversity of the General Assembly as our strength. This is the place where all nations come together and where every country has a seat and a voice.”

    She also highlighted the importance of promoting gender equality, multilingualism, and engagement with civil society and youth.

    UN Video | Annalena Baerbock elected to lead 80th session of the UN General Assembly

    UN80 initiative

    Ms. Baerbock also touched on the UN80 initiative, which was launched by Secretary-General António Guterres in March.

    “The UN80 Initiative should not be a mere cost-cutting exercise,” she said, stressing the need for bold ambition and readiness to take difficult decisions.

    “Our common goal is a strong, focused, nimble and fit-for-purpose organization. One that is capable of realising its core objectives – we need a United Nations that delivers on peace, development and justice.”

    A career defined by multilateralism

    In congratulating Ms. Baerbock, current President Philemon Yang described her as a leader defined by “an unwavering commitment to multilateralism”, praising her “Better Together” vision.

    Mr. Yang, who steered the Assembly through a year marked by the Summit of the Future and persistent global crises, expressed confidence in her ability to build trust and foster dialogue across divides.

    Secretary-General António Guterres said Mr. Yang’s successor was taking the gavel amid a “difficult and uncertain moment for the multilateral system,” noting she was only the fifth woman to lead the body.

    The UN chief warned that “conflicts, climate catastrophe, poverty and inequality continue to challenge the human family,” and called on the Assembly to unite in forging common solutions.

    UN Photo/Eskinder Debebe

    Annalena Baerbock, President-elect of the eightieth session of the UN General Assembly, speaks to the media following her election.

    The world parliament

    The General Assembly remains the UN’s most representative body, where each Member State has an equal voice – and an equal say in decisions.

    While its resolutions are non-binding, the GA – as the acronym goes in New York – helps define global diplomatic norms, convenes dialogues on worldwide challenges and holds the Security Council to account.

    The 80th session, starting 9 September, is expected to be pivotal – not only for sheer number and intensity of crises ongoing – but for advancing long-term reforms, including the UN80 initiative and the selection of the next Secretary-General before his term ends in 2026.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    July 5, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: UN aims to transform urgency into action at Nice Ocean Conference

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

    The third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC 3) from 9-13 June will bring together Heads of State, scientists, civil society and business leaders around a single goal: to halt the silent collapse of the planet’s largest – and arguably most vital – ecosystem.

    The ocean is suffocating due to rising temperatures, rampant acidification, erosion of biodiversity, plastic invasion, predatory fishing.

    ‘A state of emergency’

    “Our planet’s life support system is in a state of emergency,” said Li Junhua, head of the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) and the Secretary-General of the upcoming summit. 

    He insisted that there is still time to change course.

    “The future of the ocean is not predetermined.  It will be shaped by the decisions and actions that we are making now,” Mr. Li said on Tuesday during a press briefing at UN Headquarters in New York. 

    In the eyes of the senior official, UNOC 3 “will not be just another routine gathering.” 

    “We hope that it proves to be the pivotal opportunity to accelerate action and mobilize all stakeholders across the sectors and borders.”

    World-class conference

    More than 50 world leaders are expected on the Côte d’Azur, alongside 1,500 delegates from nearly 200 countries. 

    The programme includes 10 plenary meetings, 10 thematic roundtables, a blue zone reserved for official delegations, and a series of parallel forums during five days of negotiations.

    For France, which is co-hosting the conference alongside Costa Rica, the challenge is clear: to make Nice a historic milestone. 

    “This is an emergency,” declared Jérôme Bonnafont, Permanent Representative of France to the UN, during the press conference.

    “An ecological emergency: we are witnessing the deterioration of the quality of the oceans as an environment, as a reservoir of biodiversity, as a carbon sink.”

    France hopes to make the conference a turning point and the goal “is to produce a Nice agreement that is pro-oceans, as the Paris Agreement 10 years ago now was for the climate.” 

    This agreement will take the form of a Nice Action Plan for the Ocean, a “concise action-oriented declaration,” according to Mr. Li, accompanied by renewed voluntary commitments.

    Three milestones

    Three events will prepare the ground for UNOC 3.

    The One Ocean Science Congress, from 4-6 June, will bring together several thousand researchers. The Summit on Ocean Rise and Coastal Resilience to be held the following day will explore responses to rising sea levels. Finally, the Blue Economy Finance Forum, on 7-8 June in Monaco, will mobilize investors and policymakers.

    For Costa Rican Ambassador Maritza Chan Valverde, there is no more time for procrastination.

    “We’re expecting concrete commitments with clear timelines, budgets and accountability mechanisms. What is different this time around, zero rhetoric, maximum results,” she said.

    ‘Transform ambition into action’

    The conference’s theme Accelerating Action and Mobilizing All Stakeholders to Conserve and Sustainably Use the Ocean will address several topics, ranging from sustainable fishing to marine pollution and the interactions between climate and biodiversity.

    “This is our moment to transform ambition into action,” Mr. Li concluded, calling for governments, businesses, scientists, and civil society to come together in a common spirit. 

    He also praised the “visionary leadership” of France and Costa Rica, without whom this large-scale mobilization would not have been possible.

    A slogan promoted by Costa Rica seems to sum up the spirit of the summit: “Five days. One ocean. One unique opportunity.” 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    July 5, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: ‘This is not just ice’: Glaciers support human livelihoods, UN deputy chief says

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

    She said that since 1975, glaciers have lost more than 9,000 billion tons of ice –  equivalent to a 25-metre-thick block covering all of Germany.

    “At current rates, many glaciers may not survive this century, reshaping landscapes, ecosystems, livelihoods and water security on a global scale,” she warned.

    “This is not just a mountain crisis – it is a slow-moving global catastrophe with far-reaching consequences for planet and people.”

    Not just ice

    Ms. Mohammed was speaking a day after visiting the Vanj Yakh Glacier in north-central Tajikistan where she witnessed the “breathtaking beauty” of this crucial mass of dense ice.  

    The glacier is a vital water source for many communities in Central Asia, feeding rivers and helping to sustain millions of lives and livelihoods.

    But due to climate change, it is melting. Quickly. Over the past 80 years, it lost the equivalent of 6.4 million Olympic sized pools of water.

    The International Conference on Glaciers’ Preservation, held 29 May to 1 June in Tajikistan’s capital, is highlighting the ways in which glacier retreat threatens lives and livelihoods worldwide.

    “This is not just ice. This is food, water and security for generations to come,” said Ms. Mohammed.

    ‘Our glaciers are dying’

    Glaciers, along with ice sheets, store approximately 70 per cent of the world’s freshwater, making them essential for human survival and economies. But five of the past six years have witnessed the most rapid glacier retreat on record.

    “Our glaciers are dying,” said Celeste Saulo, Secretary-General of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), a co-organizer of the conference.

    “The death of a glacier means much more than the loss of ice. It is a mortal blow to our ecosystems, economies, and social fabric.”

    Melting glaciers increase the likelihood and severity of floods and mudslides, in addition to impacting various industries such as agriculture and forestry.  

    Bridging science and action 

    Ms. Mohammed said that the rate of glacier retreat means that the international community must take immediate action. 

    “The time to act is now for our people and our planet,” she said.  

    The conference in Dushanbe has worked to elevate glacier preservation to the top of the worldwide climate agenda ahead of the UN COP30 climate change conference in Brazil this November.

    Ms. Saulo emphasized that strengthening glacier monitoring and improving warning systems for glacier collapse will help “bridge science and services.” She also said that this must all translate into concrete action to slow glacier retreat.  

    In Tajikistan specifically, Parvathy Ramaswami — the UN Resident Coordinator in the country — said that they have focused on supporting farmers through training and knowledge transfer for local communities.  

    “[The training] means that more children are safe from disasters, they can go to school, learn and grow,” she explained. “Families and communities become resilient and prosper.” 

    UN Tajikistan

    Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed (centre) with Model UN youths and Ambassador for a Day in Tajikistan.

    Intergenerational conversations

    In Tajikistan, the Deputy Secretary-General met with many youth climate activists. She emphasized that actions to address glacier retreat must be intergenerational, much like the conversations which the conference encouraged. 

    “The global decisions we are shaping today will affect [young people’s] lives. So to think that we can begin to shape a person’s future without them, really doesn’t bode well for the rights that they have to determine their future, their aspirations,” she said.

    In giving advice to younger generations, she expressed hope that young activists would continue to advocate for their vision of the future. 

    “They should continue to raise their voices, they should continue to have their courage of conviction, they should remember that this is about a life journey and they need to make every step count.” 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    July 5, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Nations adopt historic pledge to guard against future pandemics

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI

    The effects of the devastating coronavirus“>COVID-19 pandemic are still being felt. Around seven million people died, health systems were overwhelmed, and the global economy was practically driven to a standstill.

    The global turmoil prompted a stunned international community to pursue an agreement aimed at preventing such a catastrophic event from happening again – and ensuring the world is far better prepared in the future.

    The landmark decision was made at the World Health Assembly, the annual meeting of the World Health Organization (WHO).

    Although the formal adoption was on Tuesday, the WHO’s Member States overwhelmingly approved the agreement on Monday (124 votes in favour, zero objections, 11 abstentions).

    This meant that, rather than a nail-biting vote with last-minute surprises (ahead of the conference, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, only felt able to express “cautious optimism”), the adoption by consensus had a celebratory feel.

    “The agreement is a victory for public health, science and multilateral action,” declared Tedros. “It will ensure we, collectively, can better protect the world from future pandemic threats.

    “It is also a recognition by the international community that our citizens, societies and economies must not be left vulnerable to again suffer losses like those endured during COVID-19.”  

    WHO/Christopher Black

    WHO Member States approved the first-ever Pandemic Agreement on 19 May 2025

    ‘Once-in-a-lifetime opportunity’

    The pandemic laid bare gross inequities between and within countries, when it came to diagnostics, treatments, and vaccines, and a core aim of the agreement is to plug gaps and treat any future pandemics in a fairer and more efficient way.

    “Now that the Agreement has been brought to life, we must all act with the same urgency to implement its critical elements, including systems to ensure equitable access to life-saving pandemic-related health products,” announced Dr. Teodoro Herbosa, Secretary of the Philippines Department of Health, and President of this year’s World Health Assembly, who presided over the Agreement’s adoption.

    “As COVID was a once-in-a-lifetime emergency, the WHO Pandemic Agreement offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to build on lessons learned from that crisis and ensure people worldwide are better protected if a future pandemic emerges.”

    The issue of national sovereignty has been raised several times during the process of negotiating the accord, a reflection of false online claims that WHO is somehow attempting to wrest control away from individual countries.

    The accord is at pains to point out that this is not the case, stating that nothing contained within it gives WHO any authority to change or interfere with national laws, or force nations to take measures such as banning travellers, impose vaccinations or implement lockdowns.

    WHO/ Christopher Black

    WHO Member States approved the first-ever Pandemic Agreement on 19 May 2025

    11 abstentions and a US no-show

    11 countries abstained, including Poland, Israel, Italy, Russia, Slovakia and Iran. Following the vote, the abstaining countries were given the opportunity to explain why they took this decision.

    The Polish delegate explained that they could not support the treaty ahead of a domestic review, whilst Russia raised the issue of sovereignty as a concern. Iran’s representative said that “key concerns of developing countries were not addressed,” and that they regretted the “lack of binding commitments on unhindered access and equitable access to medical countermeasures, technology transfer and knowhow, and continued silence on negative impact of unilateral coercive measures on health systems.”

    During the high-level segment which preceded the vote, a notable intervention came from the United States which has begun the year-long process of withdrawing from the WHO, and did not take part in the vote.

    In a video addressed to the Assembly, US Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy excoriated the WHO, accusing the UN agency of having “doubled down with the Pandemic Agreement which will lock in all of the dysfunction of the WHO pandemic response…we’re not going to participate in that.”

    Next steps

    The adoption has been hailed as a groundbreaking step, but this is just the beginning of the process.

    The next step is putting the agreement into practice, by launching a process to draft and negotiate a Pathogen Access and Benefit Sharing system (PABS) through an Intergovernmental Working Group.

    The result of this process will be considered at next year’s World Health Assembly.

    Once the Assembly adopts the PABS annex, the agreement will then be open for signature and consideration of ratification, including by national legislative bodies. After 60 ratifications, it will enter into force.

    Other provisions include a new financial mechanism for pandemic prevention, preparedness and response, and the creation of a Global Supply Chain and Logistics Network to “enhance, facilitate, and work to remove barriers and ensure equitable, timely, rapid, safe, and affordable access to pandemic-related health products for countries in need during public health emergencies of international concern, including pandemic emergencies, and for prevention of such emergencies.”

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    July 5, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Public health champions honoured for work ‘beyond the call of normal duty’

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI

    But this is not universal. Many people worldwide struggle – unable to walk into clinics or explain their symptoms: “[These patients] do not line up on waiting lists. They wait, unknowingly, for inside understanding and the courage to seek care,” said Dr. Merete Nordentoft of Denmark, describing the patients with whom she has worked most closely.

    Dr. Nordentoft was one of six public health champions to receive an award on Friday for “outstanding, innovative work in health development”, at the 78th World Health Assembly.

    Each was honoured for their contributions to treating underserved communities and advancing the goal of healthcare for all.

    “We celebrate the lifelong commitment and the relentless work accomplished by our very own health professionals across member states from every region of the world with one common goal – health for all,” President Teodoro Herbosa who presided over the awards ceremony.

    Reaching vulnerable communities

    Dr. Nordentoft received the Sasakawa Health Prize for her work on suicide prevention and with young patients undergoing their first psychotic episode. She was the first to receive this prize for mental health work, and emphasized the importance of early interventions which prioritize community-based care.

    “With the right support, early enough, recovery is not only possible – it is likely,” Dr. Nordentoft said of her patients.

    Many of the other award recipients have also spent their careers focused on healthcare policies and treatments which foreground integrated, community-based care. 

    The principles for which Nelson Mandela fought urge us to pursue a policy of cooperation and partnership in sharing knowledge, science and resources – Dr. Majed Zemni

    Professor Huali Wang of China and the Geriatric Healthcare Directorate of Kuwait were both awarded the Sheikh Al-Sabah Prize which honours research and policy done to support and advance healthy ageing.

    Professor Wang was recognised in part for her work to integrate professional and family support networks for older adults with dementia. She dedicated her award to these families and everyone living with the complex illness.

    The Kuwaiti Directorate was also honoured for the way in which they promoted high-quality, integrated care for older adults which “[preserves] the dignity, the rights and [recognises] the invaluable experiences of older persons.”

    Dr. Jožica Maučec Zakotnik from Slovenia, who received the United Arab Emirates Foundation Prize, has also worked tirelessly to increase healthcare access and co-developed a new type of free-of-charge health care promotion centre scheme.

    “Growing up in a less developed region in Slovenia, I set myself a task that the most disadvantaged communities would be given greater attention,” she said.

    ‘Force quit button’

    Some of the awardees acknowledged that they were receiving these highly coveted awards during a time when global health is facing unprecedented challenges, specifically financial.

    The proposed budget before the 78th World Health Assembly has been reduced by over $1.1 billion due to currently projected funding cuts.

    “The global health world has just been hit with a ‘force quit’ button and we have been pushed to stop some of the things we really want to do,” said Dr. Helen Rees of South Africa, recipient of the Dr. Lee Jong-wook Memorial Prize for her work in HIV prevention and community-based health services. 

    Dr. Majed Zemni of Tunisia received the Nelson Mandela Award for his patient-centred work in forensic medicine and in promoting the integration of medical ethics into policy. In his remarks, he noted the global civil rights icon’s legacy in also fighting for health policies.

    “The principles for which Nelson Mandela fought urge us to pursue a policy of cooperation and partnership in sharing knowledge, science and resources,” Dr. Zemni said. 

    Continuing the work 

    Dr. Rees also emphasized the importance of seizing this moment to reimagine global public health and uphold its sustainability.

    “What we need now is action. We need good science and evidence-based policies so we can address the needs of all people, including the most vulnerable,” she said.

    Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, World Health Organization (WHO) Director General, also urged all of the recipients to continue their work towards a healthier and fairer world.

    “At a time when the world faces many challenges, each of you is an inspiration and a reminder of the progress that can be made to improve health and well-being for all.”

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    July 5, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: UN faces deepening financial crisis, urges members to pay up

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI

    With a growing shortfall in contributions – $2.4 billion in unpaid regular budget dues and $2.7 billion in peacekeeping – the UN has been forced to cut spending, freeze hiring, and scale back some services.

    Officials warned that this risks eroding the UN’s credibility and its capacity to fulfil mandates entrusted to it by Member States.

    Switzerland, speaking also on behalf of Liechtenstein, said the issue goes beyond accounting. “Each delay in payment, each hiring freeze, each cancelled service chips away at trust in our ability to deliver,” the delegate said.

    Retain unspent funds as ‘protective buffer’

    One proposed solution is to allow the UN to temporarily keep unspent funds at year’s end, instead of returning them to Member States as credits. Currently, this return is mandatory – even if the funds arrive late in the year, giving the UN little time to spend them.

    The suggested change would act as a buffer to keep operations running, particularly in January when payments tend to lag.

    Delegates also backed limited use of “special commitments” — emergency funding tools — early in the year to bridge gaps caused by delayed contributions.

    While these fixes may help, several speakers, including those from Kazakhstan, Norway, and the United Kingdom, emphasized that the root cause is the continued late or non-payment of dues.

    Norway noted such temporary measures won’t solve the underlying problem and urged Member States to support bold financial reforms.

    ‘Real operational risks’

    The European Union stressed that the crisis is not abstract. “These are real operational risks,” its delegate said, adding that the burden cannot fall solely on countries that pay on time.

    Singapore, speaking for the Southeast Asian group of nations, ASEAN, echoed concern that the UN’s liquidity problems have become routine.

    He cited the UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific’s (ESCAP) need to shut its offices for three months and suspend travel and hiring.

    Particularly troubling to many was the fact that one country – unnamed in the meeting but widely known to be the United States – is responsible for over half of all unpaid dues, reportedly withholding funds for political reasons.

    Russia called for more transparency in how the UN manages cash-saving measures, cautioning against actions taken without Member State input.

    Paying dues

    Catherine Pollard, the UN’s top management official, noted that since 9 May, a handful of countries have paid in full across several budget categories, while the number of nations which have paid in full for the regular budget stands at 106 for the year.

    Still, with only 61 countries having met all their obligations in full, the message from Member States was clear: without broad, timely financial support, the UN’s ability to serve the world – especially in times of crisis – is at serious risk.

    For full coverage of all meetings at the General Assembly, Security Council and elsewhere at UN Headquarters please visit our Meetings Coverage Section here. You can find the full report on this meeting, here.  

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    July 5, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: MIDDLE EAST CRISIS LIVE: ‘Give peace a chance’ UN chief urges Israel and Iran

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI

    One week since the Israel-Iran conflict erupted, diplomatic efforts to end the war are ramping up in Geneva as foreign ministers from France, Germany, the UK and the EU prepare to meet their Iranian counterpart. In New York, meanwhile, the UN Security Council heard the UN Secretary-General warn ambassadors that “we are on course to chaos” if the war widens “which could ignite a fire that no one can can control.” UN News app users can follow here.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    July 5, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: DR Congo crisis: Aid teams appeal for support to help displaced communities left with nothing

    Source: United Nations 2

    Since the beginning of the year, Rwanda-backed M23 fighters have swept across eastern DRC, taking key cities including Goma and Bukavu. The violence has displaced more than one million people in Ituri, North Kivu and South Kivu provinces.

    Speaking from the village of Sake in North Kivu, UNDP Resident Representative Damien Mama described meeting a woman whose house had been destroyed after she fled the advancing fighters in January.

    Cut off from livelihoods

    “You know, with five children, you can imagine what this represents,” Mr. Mama said. “She was telling me that [her family] were given food and temporary shelter; but what she needs is to go back to her farm to continue farming, to continue her activities, and also have her home rebuilt.”

    All those newly displaced by the M23 rebel advance are in addition to the five million people already living in displacement camps in eastern DRC.

    Health workers have repeatedly warned that the crowded and unsanitary conditions provide ideal conditions for the spread of diseases including mpox, cholera and measles.

    Given the scale of needs, it is urgent that small businesses get the help they need to get up and running again “providing income-generating activities for the women and the youth, creating jobs”, the UNDP official insisted.

    “The economy has suffered a lot,” he explained. “The banks have closed, businesses have been destroyed, and many are now operating under 30 per cent of their capacity, which is a major blow to their businesses.”

    Support for women and girls

    At the same time, the UN agency remains committed to helping the many women and girls impacted by alarming levels of sexual violence.

    This echoes an alert issued last month by the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF), that during the most intense phase of this year’s conflict, a child was raped every half an hour.

    In the next five months, UNDP intends to support the creation of 1,000 jobs and restore basic infrastructure, benefiting about 15,000 people.

    To do this, the UN agency will need $25 million.

    “We have so far secured $14 million thanks to [South] Korea, Canada and the UK as well as Sweden; and our call will be to encourage other countries and donors to provide us with [the] $11 million gap.”

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    July 5, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: UN aviation council finds Russia responsible for downing of Malaysia Airlines flight

    Source: United Nations 2-b

    The council of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) voted on Monday that Russia failed to uphold its obligations under international air law which requires that States “refrain from resorting to the use of weapons against civil aircraft in flight.”

    The case was brought by the Netherlands and Australia.

    “This represents the first time in ICAO’s history that its Council has made a determination on the merits of a dispute between Member States under the Organization’s dispute settlement mechanism,” the UN agency said.

    Caught in conflict

    Flight MH17 was heading from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur when it was shot down over eastern Ukraine amid the armed conflict between pro-Russian rebels and Ukrainian military forces.

    All 283 passengers and 15 crew members were killed.  They represented some 17 nationalities and included 196 Dutch citizens, 43 Malaysians and 38 Australian citizens or residents.

    ICAO develops and implements global aviation strategies and technical standards and the council is its governing body.  The UN agency created a special task force on risks to civil aviation arising from conflict zones in the weeks following the crash.

    The Netherlands established a Joint Investigation Team (JIT) in August 2014 together with Australia, Malaysia and Belgium, as well as Ukraine.

    The JIT determined that flight MH17 was shot down by a missile launched from a Buk TELAR installation that was transported from Russia to a farm field in eastern Ukraine in an area controlled by separatists.

    In November 2022, a Dutch court convicted three men – two Russians and a Ukrainian – for murder.  They were tried in absentia and sentenced to life in prison. Another Russian man was acquitted.

    Breach of civilian aviation treaty

    That same year, the Netherlands and Australia launched the case with ICAO.

    It centered on allegations that Russia’s conduct in the downing of the aircraft by a surface-to-air missile over eastern Ukraine constituted a breach of the Convention on International Civil Aviation.

    War in Ukraine has escalated since the crash following the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion of the country in February 2022.  

    More than 13,000 civilians have been killed to date, and over 31,000 injured, according to the UN human rights office, OHCHR. 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    July 5, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: UN chief ‘deeply saddened’ as Air India crash claims lives of over 200 on board

    Source: United Nations 2-b

    The plane – a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner – crashed into a medical college about a mile from the city’s main airport reportedly killing five students and injuring around 50 who have been hospitalised.

    The full extent of deaths and injuries on the ground has yet to be established but one British-Indian passenger on the plane miraculously survived the crash, reportedly telling journalists that there had been a loud noise around 30 seconds after take-off.

    Heartfelt condolences

    In a statement issued by his Spokesperson, Secretary-General António Guterres extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and to the people and Government of India, and to other countries who have lost citizens during the disaster.

    He wished a swift and full recovery to all those injured as a result of the tragedy.

    According to news reports, there were 169 Indian nationals, 53 Britons, seven from Portugal and one Canadian on the flight.

    Officials at the crash site reported that the jet had continued to skid after crash-landing, dragging along the ground before bursting into flames. Hundreds of police and emergency workers remain at the scene, combing through the wreckage for survivors. 

    President of the UN General Assembly Philémon Yang said in a social media post that his thoughts were with all the victims and those impacted by the disaster, adding, “may they find strength and solace during this difficult time.”

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    July 5, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: ‘Smart grid’ helps accelerate energy transition in Indonesia

    Source: United Nations 2-b

    With support from the United Nations, the electricity grid on the central islands of Java, Madura, and Bali – home to over 160 million people – is now being upgraded and modernized to accommodate fluctuating energy loads from solar and wind power.

    “As a result of our cooperation with the UN, we now have a blueprint for a smart grid and are working to enable it to seamlessly integrate electricity from renewables in line with national priorities,” said Evy Haryadi, Director of Transmission and System Planning at state-owned electricity company PT Perusahaan Listrik Negara (PLN). “This will represent a huge step forward in decarbonizing Indonesia’s energy system.”

    As emphasized during a recent visit to Jakarta by the UN Secretary-General’s Special Advisor on Climate Action and Just Transition, Selwin Hart, the smart grid initiative—supported by the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS)—is an integral part of the broader UN assistance in Indonesia to ensure a just energy transition.

    UN Indonesia

    Solar power is widely used on the islands of Java, Madura, and Bali.

    This includes work by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to bring renewable energy to remote islands not connected to the national grid, and by the International Labour Organization (ILO) to support the government in developing green skills.

    “The UN in Indonesia works in close partnership with the government to support its energy transition targets in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),” said Gita Sabharwal, United Nations Resident Coordinator for Indonesia. “We provide fast response solutions and technical expertise to help accelerate progress toward government objectives in green energy.”

    The country’s 2025–2034 Electricity Supply Business Plan, launched in May, outlines a strategic shift toward a cleaner and investment-driven energy future. It targets 42.6 GW of new renewable power capacity and 10.3 GW of storage, while limiting new fossil fuel capacity to 16.6 GW. The plan is designed to align Indonesia’s climate commitments with the SDGs and enhance national energy resilience.

    The smart grid and, at its core, the control centre that manages electricity supply and demand, are crucial to this effort. The country expects a surge in renewable generation construction once the modernization of the JAMALI Control Center is completed.

    Historically, power grids were designed to receive electricity from sources with relatively constant output—such as coal, natural gas, or hydropower. However, some renewable sources function differently: solar plants generate electricity only when the sun is shining, and wind power only when the wind is blowing. In a so-called “smart grid,” the control centre must be able to adjust electricity intake from renewables and balance it with stable sources like coal, based on real-time weather conditions and consumption patterns. It will also utilize large-scale batteries to store excess electricity—for example, solar energy generated during particularly sunny periods.

    Established in the early 1980s, the JAMALI grid control center covers 79% of Indonesia’s generation capacity. The smart grid system design, delivered by UNOPS, enables the control centre to incorporate renewable energy forecasting capabilities and grid analysis tools to support stability and security, among other advanced features.

    The detailed engineering design for the JAMALI Main Control Center includes plans to consolidate five regional control centres into two to improve efficiency while maintaining redundancy. UNOPS also completed the tendering process and vendor selection for the design’s implementation and is building the capacity of PLN staff involved in control centre operations to manage the new technology effectively.

    From design to implementation

    Construction workers and engineers are now hard at work at PLN’s campus in Depok, just outside Jakarta, implementing the design provided by UNOPS. Completion of the control centre is expected by the end of 2025. During this phase, UNOPS is responsible for monitoring the selected vendors who are constructing, installing, configuring, and ultimately commissioning the new centre.

    UN Indonesia

    Indonesia is modernizing its electricity grid.

    “UNOPS has the project management expertise and know-how to continue supporting us and ensure the seamless and timely delivery of the project, in line with the original specifications,” said PLN’s Mr. Haryadi. “At the same time, we are building our internal capacity to eventually take over the task.”

    The work is progressing on schedule. The new buildings are largely completed, and installation of the industrial monitoring system—central to the control centre’s operation—is about 40 per cent complete. Based on the success of the initiative, discussions are underway to replicate the design for the four control centres that manage electricity supply on other islands across the country.

    UNOPS supports this modernization under the Southeast Asia Energy Transition Partnership (ETP), which provides technical expertise to partner countries in the region to help their national energy commitments in line with Paris Agreement and the SDGs. ETP is a multi-donor partnership, supported by the governments of Australia, Canada, France, Germany, the United Kingdom and philanthropic donors.  ETP operates in Indonesia, the Philippines and Viet Nam, as well as at the ASEAN regional level, and works collaboratively to mobilize and coordinate resources to facilitate a just energy transition in the region.

    “The control centre upgrade promises to be a game-changer for Indonesia’s energy mix,” Ms Sabharwal said. “Our support is an impactful example of the UN’s assistance in middle-income countries: working behind the scenes and providing core technical expertise, we support the government’s priority of energy security by fast-tracking the green transformation.” 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    July 5, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Greed is driving oceans toward collapse

    Source: United Nations 4

    Mr. Guterres’ stark assessment came during a press conference on the second day of the UN ocean summit, known as UNOC3, where hundreds of government leaders, scientists and civil society groups are gathered on France’s Côte d’Azur. Their mission: to confront the escalating emergency facing the world’s oceans.

    Greed is a ‘clear enemy’

    “We are in Nice on a mission – save the ocean, to save our future,” the Secretary-General said, and warned that a tipping point is fast-approaching “beyond which recovery may become impossible.”

    The “clear enemy” that is pushing our oceans towards the brink is greed.

    According to the UN chief, greed sows doubt, denies science, distorts truth, rewards corruption and destroys life for profit. “We cannot let greed dictate the fate of our planet,” he insisted.

    Calling on all stakeholders to assume their responsibility in pushing back against these profit-hungry forces, the Secretary-General said: “That is why we are here this week: to stand in solidarity against those forces and reclaim what belongs to us all.”

    He cited four priorities for governments, business leaders, fishers and scientists, saying “everyone has a responsibility and a vital role to play”:

    • Transform ocean harvesting – It’s not just about fishing, it’s about how we fish. We must meet the globally agreed “30 by 30” goal to conserve 30 per cent of oceans by 2030.
       
    • Tackle plastic pollution: Phase out single-use plastics and improve recycling; and finalize a global treaty to end plastic pollution this year.
       
    • Fight climate change at sea: Countries must submit bold climate plans ahead of COP30 in Brazil. Plans must align with the 1.5°C target and cover all emissions.
       
    • Enforce the High Seas Treaty: Ratify and implement the new treaty, known by the shorthand, BBNJ treaty, to protect marine biodiversity, and urge all nations to join and bring the agreement into force.

    Calling for a grand global coalition of governments, business leaders, fishers, scientists, the Secretary-General urged everyone to step forward with decisive commitments and tangible funding.

    “The ocean has given us so much. It is time we returned the favour.”

    UN News/Heyi Zou

    António Guterres, UN Secretary-General takes a family photo with world leaders to ramp up the ratification of the High Sea Treaty.

    Don’t let the deep sea become the ‘Wild West’

    Responding to questions at the press conference, Mr. Guterres emphasized another critical issue: the fight against deep-sea mining. 

    Reiterating his warning from the opening day of the conference that the deep ocean must not become a “Wild West” of unregulated exploitation, he voiced strong backing for the ongoing work of the International Seabed Authority in addressing this growing concern.

    After his press conference, the Secretary-General visited Nice’s picturesque Port Lympia and boarded the Santa Maria Manuela, a Portuguese four-masted schooner, where he met members of the Oceano Azul Foundation, a Lisbon-based organization promoting efforts to reverse the destruction of ocean environments around the world.

    UN News/Heyi Zou

    Young advocates are playing a role in UNOC3.

    An end to deep sea mining

    As the second day of UNOC3 gets under way, the lines outside the conference venue remain just as long as they were on opening day, but the atmosphere has shifted.

    The stern-faced dignitaries and their security details are still very much present, but they have been joined by a more animated crowd. Grassroots activists and civil society groups now fill the space, bringing fresh energy and determination as they step up to help shape the global conversation on saving our oceans and restoring the planet’s health.

    Among these civil society actors, Arzucan Askin and Gayathra Bandara are Young Ocean Leaders and fellows of the Sustainable Ocean Alliance, one of the largest youth organizations for ocean action.

    They told UN News that the Alliance has been advocating a range of work, from ocean conservation and restoration, to pushing for a moratorium on deep sea mining.

    As a specialized researcher working on the impact of seabed mining with several European and US partners, Mr. Bandara said he sees a big role for scientific data in this effort.

    “I felt very sad when some leaders [at the Conference] said they wanted to…push for more deep-sea mining,” so it was “a great thing” to hear the Presidents of France and Costa Rica, the UNOC3 co-hosts, call strongly for the practice to be suspended.

    Ms. Askin agreed and urged everyone to do more to protect our ocean, which she described as “the home of ancient ecosystems that predate all of us”.

    She said she really hopes that the global community will come together and declare: “We will not be mining the deep sea, we will not be exploiting it but rather we’ll be protecting it for the generations to come”.

    UN News/Heyi Zou

    Martina Burtscher (right) and Udani Hewa Maddumage (left) talk to UN News.

    ‘Save our ocean’ is not just a slogan

    Other grassroots groups at the Conference are echoing the urgency expressed by the Secretary-General and world leaders calling for more and faster action to reverse the damage being done to our oceans and planet.

    UN News spoke to Martina Burtscher and Udani Hewa Maddumage, two young activists from SeaSisters Lanka, a non-profit organization in Sri Lanka that uses swimming, surfing and ocean education as a tool.

    SeaSisters Lanka also aims to empower women from coastal areas, especially in southern provinces in Sri Lanka.

    Ms. Burtscher said it is important for everyone, especially world leaders, to understand that saving the ocean is not just a discussion point; it is the agenda.

    Ms. Hewa Maddumage agreed, saying: “In a way, the ocean doesn’t need us, but we should protect it… because we are the ones who use it, and we are the ones that are ruining it as well.”

    As advocates from a grassroot organization, both said they felt it was important that “all voices are included in decision-making positions”.

    Noting their expectations for the Conference, they further hoped that “women, minority groups and organizations that work directly on the ground together with the coastal communities “can be heard, loud and clear”.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    July 5, 2025
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