NewzIntel.com

Category: European Union

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Changes to citywide parking charges imminent

    Source: City of York

    Published Monday, 14 July 2025

    Some changes to parking charges, based on feedback from local communities and businesses, will come into effect from this Thursday (17 July) in York.

    After attending consultative meetings with traders and listening to representations from local communities at a public Executive meeting last month (3 June), Executive Members agreed to several changes to car parking charges in the city, including a new pricing model. 

    The new pricing model introduces a price of £3 per hour (or £2.10 per hour for residents with a Minster discount badge) for a maximum of 3 hours in community car parks and residential areas outside the inner ring road, whilst maintaining previously approved charges in the heart of the city. This forms part of an evidence led approach to tackle traffic congestion and improve travel options for everybody.

    Councillor Kate Ravilious, Executive Member for Transport: 

    “Following the introduction of new charges across the city earlier in the year, we listened to what people were telling us and made some adjustments. These changes are now being put in place.

    “We’re grateful for those who’ve worked with us in reaching these decisions.

    “While we remain committed to tackling congestion and making it easier for everyone to get around, we recognise some of the uplift in charges in areas where they were previously very low has felt too much in one go. 

    “Alongside the changes to parking charges aimed at supporting residents and local businesses, we will continue to invest in improving bus services, including extending Park and Ride hours from the 20 July; and developing walking and cycling provision in York to provide alternative travel options in York.”

    Different car-parking charges will be applied depending on the area the parking is located in, with lower rates in community car parks and on-street areas serving residential and local high streets outside of the inner ring road. These car parks include: 

    Bishopthorpe Road car park; East Parade car park and Rowntree Park car park.

    Other changes that will come into effect, include:

    • On-street parking charges in areas outside of the inner ring road will move to the £3 per hour rate 
    • an increase in the discount for the Minster Badge to 30% of the standard parking charge, from the current 24% to reduce the impact of increased parking charges on residents
    • no Friday, Saturday, event uplift or evening charge at Community car parks or on-street parking areas outside of the inner ring road.
    • adjustment to charges in the Micklegate and Priory Street area to the ‘outside the inner ring road’ on-street parking rate. City centre evening parking rates for this area will still apply
    • removing the proposed charges for dedicated motorcycle bays, recognising that the motorcycle bays are generally in locations where a car space is not possible
    • increase the discount for Low Emission vehicle permits to 20%, from the current 16% discount to set a discount that better reflects the contribution of all types of vehicles to congestion and takes into account the land-use impact of vehicle parking 
    • Contract Parking permits will no longer be linked to Season Tickets, and will be set at last year’s prices, plus circa 5% increase, with a 20% discount for low emission vehicles
    • Coppergate car park will also be implementing cashless parking from 17 July, cash payments will still be accepted in Bootham Row and Castle Car Park

    These new charges will be reviewed to monitor their impact and to ensure they’ve been set at the right level.

    For more information on the parking charges review and the changes about to be implemented, visit our website: https://www.york.gov.uk/ParkingChargesReview 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Director’s public health report draws parallels with Leicester’s past

    Source: City of Leicester

    LEICESTER’S public health journey since the Victorian era is captured in a powerful new report by the city’s director of public health.

    In his annual report for 2024-2025, Rob Howard looks back at the challenges of the last 12 months within the context of the city’s past, from deadly outbreaks of smallpox in the 19th century to the slum clearance programme of the 20th century and the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020.

    Using records from the city council’s archives, he highlights how issues faced by the public health pioneers of the past – such as vaccine resistance, housing quality, fuel poverty and inequality – remain challenges today.

    “The past holds vital clues to the present,” said Mr Howard.

    “By drawing lessons from history, we can see that effective public health depends not just on medical advances, but on earning the trust of the people we serve.

    “Resistance to the smallpox vaccination in the 1850s, for example, echoes the public debates of today – but thanks to good communication and an approach that’s culturally sensitive, we are now getting our message across, encouraging the take-up of vaccines and helping to reduce the spread of infectious disease.”

    Other key themes in the report include the ongoing impact of poverty and poor housing on health outcomes, and the resurgence of diseases such as tuberculosis (TB) and measles.

    A significant measles outbreak in 2024 and the highest TB notification rate in England highlight Leicester’s persistent public health challenges.

    “Over the past year, Leicester’s health landscape has been shaped by a combination of enduring inequalities, a resurgence of infectious diseases and the continuing impacts of deprivation,” said Mr Howard.

    “Life expectancy remains below the national average, with residents living more years in ill health – particularly in the most deprived communities.

    “Fuel poverty continues to affect a large proportion of households, contributing to poor physical and mental health outcomes.

    “But despite these pressures, the city has demonstrated the strength of community-led responses – from mobile vaccination campaigns to energy advice outreach – and continues to invest in tackling health disparities through targeted, culturally sensitive public health strategies.”

    As well as looking to the past, the 40-page report also looks ahead, with a vision for public health in Leicester that blends evidence, compassion and collaboration. Those reading the report to its conclusion will find a twist in the final chapter, providing – perhaps – a hint of the future ahead.

    The History, Present and Future of Public Health in Leicester City is now available to download.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Ideal choice for shoppers as new businesses open at Leeds Kirkgate Market

    Source: City of Leeds

    New businesses are making Leeds Kirkgate Market an even better choice for shoppers as its multi-million pound improvements programme continues to deliver the goods.

    An impressive total of 18 indoor businesses have opened at the historic and much-loved retail destination over the course of the last 12 months.

    And although the market’s food offer remains as strong as ever, the range of other products being sold by its latest arrivals are a reminder that this is a shopping spot with something for everyone.

    One of the recently-opened businesses, Zen & Pops, is based in the 1904 Hall and specialises in autism-friendly sensory and educational toys.

    Toys Shop, another newcomer that is sure to be a hit with younger customers, can be found in the 1981 Hall.

    Luggage retailer Bargain Bags has opened in the 1981 Hall while a furniture business, Buy Direct UK, that was already trading at the market has expanded its presence there by moving into a large previously-vacant unit, again in the 1981 Hall.

    The recent flurry of openings has come as work continues on Leeds City Council’s £10m refurbishment of the market’s 19th-century ‘blockshops’ area.

    The first phase of the scheme saw a total of 24 units renovated and improved with features such as new canopy fronts, electric roller shutters, extraction ducting, LED lighting and extra storage space.

    Another 16 units were completed earlier this year, with one of the new businesses in this section – Hellenic Delicacies & More, a delicatessen selling Greek grocery products and pastries – set to open shortly.

    Work on the renovation of the remaining 12 blockshop units is due to finish next year.

    Footfall figures for 2024, meanwhile, show the market received more than 5.9m visits over the year, four per cent up on the total for 2023.

    Those figures were in part driven by a packed summer schedule of free family-friendly activities.

    And visitors to the market can look forward to more of the same in 2025, with a free children’s activities programme running there from July 21 to August 29.

    The What’s on at Kirkgate webpage will be updated through the summer with details about this year’s programme, which will include fun sessions featuring everything from circus skills to real-life arcade-style games.

    Councillor Jonathan Pryor, Leeds City Council’s deputy leader and executive member for economy, transport and sustainable development, said:

    “Leeds Kirkgate Market is rightly renowned for the quality and value of the produce served up by its butchers, greengrocers, fishmongers, bakers and array of other food retailers.

    “That’s not all the market has to offer, though, as shown by the range of exciting new businesses that have opened there over the last year.

    “I’m delighted that our substantial investment in this important local landmark is making it even more attractive for traders and customers alike.

    “The support of everyone who works or shops at the market is very much appreciated as we continue our efforts to ensure its future is just as bright as its long and storied past.”

    Dating back to 1875, the blockshops are the oldest surviving structures at the market and comprise eight two-storey buildings linked by an infill glazed roof.

    The ongoing transformation of the area’s trading units has been complemented by wider structural work which has seen roofing repaired, walkways brightened up with new glazing, new guttering installed and floors lowered to enhance accessibility.

    For more information about trading opportunities in both the blockshops and the market as a whole, click here.

    ENDS

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Knowledge Transfer and Innovation Fund

    Source: Scottish Government

    Agriculture support applications open.

    Applications for up to £200,000 a year to build farming skills and improve biodiversity have opened.

    Agriculture Minister Jim Fairlie also confirmed that the Knowledge Transfer and Innovation Fund (KTIF) would consider requests for multi-year funding agreements, subject to budgetary confirmation each financial year.

    The fund promotes skills development, improvements in business practice, resource efficiency, environmental performance and sustainability. 

    Previous projects supported include a skills development programme for staff working with livestock in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, a course to help crofters, and promoting learning about the benefits of calving intervals on the Isle of Bute.

    Agriculture Minister Jim Fairlie said:

    “Since this fund was launched in 2015 it has been supporting the agricultural industry to share really important skills and lessons learned across farming networks. The KTIF is well placed to support tackling the climate emergency through restoring and preserving biodiversity and ecosystems, promoting resource efficiency, improving water and soil management, and preventing and controlling pollution.

    “Working with farmers, crofters and land managers we want to do what we can to give them as much stability as possible, with multi-year applications allowing them to better plan for the future and help them try new ways to make farming and food production as sustainable as possible.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Upgrade planned for Life Centre alarm systems

    Source: City of Plymouth

    Plymouth’s Life Centre is to get an upgrade to its fire alarm and public address system as part of the Council’s ongoing programme of investment into the city’s key buildings and assets.

    Components of the current fire alarm and voice evacuation systems are near end of life and advances in technology have made some parts obsolete.

    The proposal is to install six networked fire alarm panels; this will enable areas to be reconfigured in sections and minimise the disruption to the facility.

    The public address system is also near the end of its useful life and the proposal is to replace all control equipment as well as install cabling to a new touch screen, desk mounted microphone station at the reception desk.

    Upgrading or replacing a fire alarm system in a complex leisure facility can be a challenging process with the need to maintain a fire detection system during the replacement programme. The facility will remain open through any work.

    The proposed new fire alarm system will significantly increase Plymouth Active Leisure’s ability to receive competitive service charges and more choice of servicing agents when term contracts are reviewed.

    Councillor Chris Penberthy, Cabinet member responsible for assets said: “As a large organisation with a huge number of buildings and assets in our estate, we try to prioritise limited funds to where they are needed most.

    “Safety is paramount, but these upgrades will also remove headaches such as parts supplies and should help Plymouth Active Leisure get on with the job of running a successful and popular venue that is so important to the lives of the many members and teams that use its great facilities to get and stay fit and healthy.”

    The Council is allocating £381,879 into the Capital Programme funded by corporate borrowing and the executive decision signals the start of the procurement process.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UTIs cost NHS hospitals over £600m last year

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    UTIs cost NHS hospitals over £600m last year

    New data from UKHSA reveals that treating urinary tract infections (UTIs) cost NHS hospitals in England an estimated £604 million in 2023 to 2024.

    New data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has revealed that treating urinary tract infections (UTIs) cost NHS hospitals in England an estimated £604 million in 2023-24.

    UTIs occur when bacteria enter the urinary system including the urethra, bladder or kidneys. Most lower urinary tract infections (those in the urethra or bladder) cause mild discomfort and go away on their own, or may require a short course of antibiotics, but for some can progress to more serious infections, including upper urinary tract infections affecting the kidneys, leading to bloodstream infections and sepsis.

    Analysing data from the Hospital Episode Statistics (HES) database using the records of patients with a UTI-related primary diagnosis for the 2023 to 2024 financial year in England, there were nearly 200,000 UTI-related patients. This includes infections acquired in both community and hospital settings. Those admissions resulted in 1.2 million bed days, averaging 6 bed days per infection.

    However, one-third of UTI patients were in hospital for less than a day, indicating that other treatment pathways could be considered for these patients.

    The findings reflect the well-documented burden of UTIs on older people and women. 52.7% of admissions were patients aged over 70 and 61.8% were female. While females were nearly 5 times more likely to require hospital treatment for a UTI in people under 50 years old (24.7% female compared to 5.3% male), this levelled out in age groups over 50 (37.1% female compared to 32.9% male). This highlights the need for men over 50 to also pay early attention to urinary symptoms and seek treatment that may prevent hospitalisation.

    Hospitalisations for UTIs were at their lowest in 2020 to 2021 – possibly influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic. Since then, admissions have increased, climbing by 9% in 2023 to 2024 compared to the previous year.  

    The data highlights the clear need to reduce UTIs acquired in the community to help reduce hospitalisations. People can reduce their risk of catching a UTI in the first place by:

    • drinking enough fluids regularly, especially in hot weather – more trips to the toilet may be needed, but that shouldn’t stop you drinking
    • avoiding holding pee – go to the toilet as soon as possible when you need to
    • washing, or shower daily where possible especially if you suffer from incontinence* keep the genital area clean and dry, and check and change leakage of urine pads often
    • wiping from front to back after using the toilet to prevent bacteria from spreading
    • washing genitals before and after sex
    • talking to your healthcare professional if you have frequent UTIs, as they may be able to suggest treatments that could help

    Detecting and treating a UTI early is also important. Some of the early symptoms of UTI include:

    • needing to pee more frequently or urgently than usual
    • passing lots of urine at night
    • pain or a burning sensation when peeing
    • having cloudy-looking urine
    • new pain in the lower tummy
    • severe kidney pain or pain in the lower back
    • blood in the pee
    • for some people it can include changes in behaviour, such as acting agitated or confused

    UKHSA also recently published updated diagnostic flowcharts to help healthcare professionals manage symptoms and infections.

    Dr Colin Brown, Deputy Director at UKHSA responsible for antibiotic resistance, said:

    Urinary Tract Infections are a major cause of hospitalisations in this country, but many could be prevented.

    We know that the most serious consequences that come from UTIs are more common in people over the age of 50 so we are reminding this group in particular to be aware of the ways they can help reduce their risk of getting poorly. Drinking enough fluids is so important, as well as avoiding holding onto pee. If you have frequent UTIs, talk to your healthcare provider about treatments that may help prevent further infections. If you have a UTI and your symptoms get worse, please call your GP or 111, or go to your nearest A&E to seek assistance as UTIs can develop into more serious, life-threatening infections.

    Preventing UTIs is also important in our fight against antibiotic resistance as they are often treated with antibiotics, which drives resistance in bacteria. Reducing the number of UTI infections means bacteria has less chance to develop this resistance, helping to keep antibiotics working for longer.

    Dr Joanna Harris RGN PhD, Head of Infection Prevention and Control at UKHSA, said:

    UTIs are a significant cause of avoidable harm, particularly among older adults and those with long-term conditions, and can lead to serious complications, including sepsis and death. It’s really important that nurses, midwives and social care workers, have the knowledge and tools to reduce the risk of UTIs occurring. When a UTI is suspected, their promotion of early and accurate diagnosis can enable timely and appropriate treatment, helping to limit the impact of the infection.

    Professor Matt Inada-Kim, National Clinical Director for Infections Management and Antimicrobial Resistance at NHS England, said:

    Urinary tract infections are an increasingly common reason for becoming ill at home and in hospitals. They are more serious in older patients and, in particular, those with catheters, but they can occur at any age and are not often related to poor hygiene.

    Antimicrobial resistance continues to grow and it is vital that we do everything we can to manage urinary infections through prevention, education and providing easy access to healthcare – including diagnostic tests and appropriate treatment.

    UTIs are typically caused by bacteria, most commonly Escherichia coli (E. coli), and often require antibiotics to treat the infection. As UTIs are so common, there are concerns that the volume of antibiotics prescribed is contributing to the growing risk of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). This is because every antibiotic taken makes the development of resistance more likely. More targeted prescribing of antimicrobials for UTIs is essential as part of the National Action Plan for AMR 2024-2029. However, preventing infections where possible would also decrease antibiotic prescribing and the selective pressure that antibiotics have on bacteria, helping reduce antibiotic resistance.

    Patient and campaigner, Caroline Sampson, explains how a chronic UTI has impacted her life:

    For 9 years, I have had a chronic UTI. No form of antibiotics has successfully treated it. It has derailed by life in every possible way. The daily symptoms are debilitating and painful. Trying to accomplish the smallest task takes a huge amount of effort. The impact on my mental health has been enormous and I live with daily anxiety that the infection could develop into Urosepsis. The threat of antibiotic-resistant infections to us all cannot be underestimated.

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Ofsted sets out measures to ensure steady and assured start to inspections under the renewed framework

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Ofsted sets out measures to ensure steady and assured start to inspections under the renewed framework

    Ofsted has today announced several measures to reassure education providers about the November roll-out of inspections under the renewed inspection framework.

    • Enhanced quality assurance process will see fewer inspections to begin with, led only by the most experienced inspectors.
    • No inspections in the week before Christmas to allow for further training.
    • Further measures to reassure providers about the November roll-out.

    To support a steady and assured start, Ofsted’s National Director for Education and Principal Inspector, Lee Owston HMI, will quality assure the work of the most senior inspectors following their participation in pilot visits to volunteer settings in early autumn. Every inspector will also complete a comprehensive training programme, with the same quality assurance checks, before being deployed on a live inspection.

    This rolling quality assurance process will mean there are fewer inspections than usual in November and December. To begin with, all inspections will be led by the most senior and experienced inspectors, assisted by Ofsted’s permanent, in-house teams. Part-time, external Ofsted Inspectors will be phased in following training.   

    During autumn, a random sample of providers will be invited to take part in ‘exit interviews’ with His Majesty’s Chief Inspector, the National Director, and senior Ofsted officials to hear about their inspection experience and reflect on the implementation of the reforms. This is in addition to the post-inspection survey that all education providers will still be invited to complete.  

    Continuing Ofsted’s commitment to transparency and listening to feedback, His Majesty’s Chief Inspector will also invite sector representatives to a series of roundtable meetings to share their thoughts on the renewed framework.  

    There will be no education inspections in the final week before the Christmas break, to allow for further inspection training. 

    Ofsted has also taken on board suggestions raised last week by the Confederation of School Trusts (CST) and has announced a series of wraparound measures to support a smooth start to the framework, including:

    • All requests for an inspection deferral will be reviewed by Ofsted’s Deputy Chief Inspector, to make sure each case is treated with utmost sensitivity and consideration. 
    • Ofsted will work with the CST and others to ensure all inspection guidance and material for providers is as user-friendly as it can be.  
    • For openness and transparency, the Ofsted Academy will continue to publish inspector training materials on its free-to-access external platform.  
    • The telephone helpline, for leaders to raise queries and concerns with a senior Ofsted leader in their region, will be open before, during and after an inspection.  
    • During the first few months of inspections, Ofsted will continually update an FAQ document online and produce blogs sharing reflections and countering any emerging myths.
    • In addition to the webinars announced last week, in November and December Ofsted will hold meetings with representatives from each education remit, seeking their feedback on early inspections. Ofsted is also exploring webinar options for bodies responsible for governance and oversight, such as school governors, multi-academy trusts, local authorities and nursery chains.

    Schools and other education providers have always had the right to request an inspection at any time, and some have already volunteered for an early inspection under the new framework. While Ofsted cannot guarantee an early inspection, all such requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis.    

    His Majesty’s Chief Inspector, Sir Martyn Oliver, said:

    We’re confident that our reforms will deliver an improved system of education inspection, with real benefits for children and their parents. But we’re also serious about giving providers the support they need to engage confidently and fairly with the changes, and ensuring a steady and assured start to inspections under the renewed framework.  

    I want to reassure everyone that we’re taking every possible measure to provide a consistent and high-quality inspection experience for all, right from the off.

    Press office

    8.30am to 6pm Monday to Friday 0300 013 0415

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI China: Foreign Minister Lin delivers remarks at opening of 2025 ILA-ASIL Asia-Pacific Research Forum, urges democracies to jointly address challenges posed by authoritarian expansion

    Source: Republic of Taiwan – Ministry of Foreign Affairs

    July 8, 2025  

    No. 232  

    Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung on July 7 attended the opening of the 2025 International Law Association-American Society of International Law Asia-Pacific Research Forum, where he addressed more than 50 noted international scholars from over 20 nations.

     

    In his remarks, Minister Lin said that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs had been promoting the policy of integrated diplomacy, which aimed to deepen partnerships with like-minded countries based on the values of freedom, democracy, and human rights. He explained that Taiwan had proactively leveraged its diplomatic strengths—consolidating diplomatic ties, expanding its alliance of friendly nations, and integrating the resources of the public and private sectors with the goal of having Taiwan continue to be a Taiwan of the world.

     

    Noting the extreme turbulence of international relations and the severe geopolitical challenges facing the Indo-Pacific region, Minister Lin said that in recent years, China had repeatedly challenged the rules-based international order, gravely undermining democracy, the rule of law, human rights, freedom, and even fair trade. He observed that the world’s leading states had gone on alert and that an increasing number of countries had acted by sending warships through the Taiwan Strait, underscoring that the Taiwan Strait constituted international waters and demonstrating the great importance that they attached to the security of the Indo-Pacific region.

     

    Minister Lin also pointed out that China had long sought to pressure Taiwan in the international arena, enacting the Anti-Secession Law in 2005 and 22 guidelines on punishing independence in 2024, among other legal warfare tools. He said that China had inappropriately distorted UN General Assembly (UNGA) Resolution 2758, seeking to weaponize the text and transform it into a tool to suppress Taiwan’s international participation and provide cover for an armed invasion. He stated that China had used the resolution as justification for its false claims that Taiwan was a part of China and that the Taiwan Strait was China’s internal waters, adding that such claims were clearly contrary to the facts and to democratic values.

     

    Minister Lin noted that in response to China’s efforts to distort UNGA Resolution 2758, last year the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China, the European Parliament, and the parliaments of Australia, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, and the Czech Republic passed resolutions clearly opposing China’s misrepresentations. He said that senior US officials had also publicly expressed a similar position and that the international community had gradually gained an accurate understanding of Resolution 2758—that it neither mentioned Taiwan nor precluded Taiwan’s international participation.

     

    Looking back on history, Minister Lin remarked that following the Second World War, the signing of the San Francisco Peace Treaty, which was binding under international law, had supplanted the political statements contained in the Cairo Declaration and the Potsdam Proclamation. He also pointed out that the People’s Republic of China had never governed Taiwan. He said that since the mid-1980s, Taiwan had experienced political liberalization and democratization, leading to the completion of its first direct presidential election in 1996. At that point, he said, the central executive and legislative representatives of government of the Republic of China were all elected by the people of Taiwan—and since then, the Republic of China government had been the sole legitimate government exercising effective rule over Taiwan and representing Taiwan internationally. He added that this underscored the cross-strait status quo that the Republic of China (Taiwan) and the People’s Republic of China existed as equals, with neither being subordinate to the other. He said that the Republic of China (Taiwan) had experienced three changes of governing party—in 2000, 2008, and 2016—that had consolidated the democratic system and helped create a clearer sense of national identity, reflecting the Taiwanese people’s pursuit of and desire for freedom and democracy.

     

    Minister Lin went on to explain that, in response to dramatic changes in the international geopolitical landscape and the threat of authoritarian expansion, President Lai Ching-te had issued 17 national security measures. He said that China’s vaulting ambition had alerted the international community to the fact that Taiwan was not subordinate to the PRC. He observed that this had upended China’s cross-strait framework, making the issue of democratic Taiwan and authoritarian China not merely a regional matter, but a question the countries of the world must address together.

     

    Minister Lin emphasized that the more secure Taiwan was, the more secure the world would be, and that the stronger Taiwan grew, the more secure the world’s democracies would be. He reiterated that Taiwan was a Taiwan of the world and said that the Republic of China (Taiwan), as a democratic nation and a force for good in the world, had demonstrated that it was part of the global village through the continued application of democratic processes and through its international participation.

     

    Concluding his remarks, Minister Lin said that Taiwan would continue to be at the forefront of the global battle against authoritarian expansionism, adding that Taiwan would work with like-minded countries to defend the values of freedom and democracy and ensure regional peace, security, and prosperity. (E)

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: WFP welcomes new contribution from the UK government to support refugees in Jordan

    Source: World Food Programme

    JORDAN— The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) in Jordan has welcomed a new contribution of GBP 5.5 million (US$7.43 million) from the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) to support its food assistance programme for refugees in camps and communities across the country.

    This is the UK’s second contribution to WFP Jordan this year, following a GBP 4 million (US$5.16 million) allocation earlier in 2025, that helped WFP avert assistance cuts for thousands of vulnerable refugees.

    “This renewed support from the UK comes at a critical moment and reflects the UK’s ongoing commitment to humanitarian efforts in Jordan,” said WFP Representative and Country Director in Jordan Alberto Correia Mendes. “The funds will enable WFP to continue supporting the most vulnerable families, especially during this challenging time when WFP and other partners in the refugee response are facing funding shortfalls that limit our collective capacity to assist people in need.”

    Despite this valuable contribution, WFP still urgently needs US$24 million to continue providing reduced monthly cash assistance through December and avoid further cuts for refugees living in camps and host communities.

    WFP currently supports 280,000 refugees in Jordan with cash-based assistance to help meet their basic food needs, the majority of whom are Syrians. Due to ongoing funding shortfalls WFP reduced in July 2023 its monthly cash assistance one-third reduction from JOD 23 (US$32) to JOD 15 (US$21) per person.

    ###

    The United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impact of climate change.

    Follow us on X, formerly Twitter, via @wfp_media, @wfp_jordan.

    For more information please contact (email address: firstname.lastname@wfp.org):
    Mariana El-Khoury, WFP/Jordan, Mob. +962 79 1295615
     

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: WFP welcomes new contribution from the UK government to support refugees in Jordan

    Source: World Food Programme

    JORDAN— The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) in Jordan has welcomed a new contribution of GBP 5.5 million (US$7.43 million) from the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) to support its food assistance programme for refugees in camps and communities across the country.

    This is the UK’s second contribution to WFP Jordan this year, following a GBP 4 million (US$5.16 million) allocation earlier in 2025, that helped WFP avert assistance cuts for thousands of vulnerable refugees.

    “This renewed support from the UK comes at a critical moment and reflects the UK’s ongoing commitment to humanitarian efforts in Jordan,” said WFP Representative and Country Director in Jordan Alberto Correia Mendes. “The funds will enable WFP to continue supporting the most vulnerable families, especially during this challenging time when WFP and other partners in the refugee response are facing funding shortfalls that limit our collective capacity to assist people in need.”

    Despite this valuable contribution, WFP still urgently needs US$24 million to continue providing reduced monthly cash assistance through December and avoid further cuts for refugees living in camps and host communities.

    WFP currently supports 280,000 refugees in Jordan with cash-based assistance to help meet their basic food needs, the majority of whom are Syrians. Due to ongoing funding shortfalls WFP reduced in July 2023 its monthly cash assistance one-third reduction from JOD 23 (US$32) to JOD 15 (US$21) per person.

    ###

    The United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impact of climate change.

    Follow us on X, formerly Twitter, via @wfp_media, @wfp_jordan.

    For more information please contact (email address: firstname.lastname@wfp.org):
    Mariana El-Khoury, WFP/Jordan, Mob. +962 79 1295615
     

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Advancing Cancer Research: US Scientist Finds Innovation in Spain

    Source: European Commission (video statements)

    A scientist from the US shares how relocating to Oviedo, supported by EU funding, allowed her to pursue groundbreaking research in cancer and immunity while finding a better balance in life and work.

    Amid Spain’s vibrant research networks and supportive social infrastructure, she reflects on the freedom to explore big ideas, raise a family, and grow in a community that values both science and well-being.

    This is a story of momentum sparked by curiosity, crossing borders and discovering new purpose in the rhythm of research, collaboration, and care.

    00:04 Finding the Right Place
    00:25 Doing Work That Matters
    01:14 Support to Keep Going
    01:31 A Great Team Environment
    01:53 A Better Life Outside the Lab
    02:26 Why Research Funding Matters

    Watch on the Audiovisual Portal of the European Commission:
    Follow us on:
    -X: https://twitter.com/EU_Commission
    -Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/europeancommission/
    -Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EuropeanCommission
    -LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/european-commission/
    -Medium: https://medium.com/@EuropeanCommission

    Check our website: http://ec.europa.eu/

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O7PRQ8UmKPw

    MIL OSI Video –

  • Tesla debuts in India with Model Y, starting at ₹59.89 Lakh

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Electric vehicle giant Tesla has officially entered the Indian market with the launch of its highly anticipated Model Y. The company introduced the rear-wheel drive (RWD) variant of the Model Y at a starting price of ₹59.89 lakh ($69,779) (ex-showroom), while the Long Range RWD version is priced at ₹67.89 lakh ($79,107) according to the company’s website.

    With this launch, India joins the growing list of countries offering Tesla’s popular all-electric SUV. Comparatively, the Model Y starts at $44,990 in the United States, 263,500 yuan ($36,764) in China, and €45,970 ($ 53,700) in Germany.

    Deliveries for the Model Y are scheduled to begin in the third quarter of 2025, with the vehicle initially available in Mumbai, Delhi, and Gurugram. On Tuesday, Tesla opened its first showroom—dubbed the “Experience Centre”—at Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) in Mumbai. A second showroom is expected to open soon in New Delhi.

    Speaking at the inauguration of the Mumbai Experience Centre, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis welcomed Tesla’s arrival, stating, “This is not just the inauguration of an Experience Centre, but a statement that Tesla has arrived in the city of Mumbai—India’s entrepreneurial capital.”

    The Model Y brings competitive specifications to the Indian EV market. The RWD version offers a claimed range of up to 500 kilometers on a full charge, while the Long Range RWD trim delivers up to 622 kilometers. Tesla’s fast-charging technology enables the addition of up to 238 kilometers of range in just 15 minutes for the RWD model, and 267 kilometers for the Long Range version.

    Performance-wise, the Model Y RWD accelerates from 0 to 100 kmph in 5.9 seconds, while the Long Range RWD achieves the same in 5.6 seconds. Both variants have an electronically limited top speed of 201 kmph.

    Inside the cabin, the Model Y is packed with premium features. These include a 15.4-inch front touchscreen infotainment system, an 8-inch rear touchscreen, ventilated powered front seats, a heated and powered second-row, ambient lighting in the footwell and door pockets, wrap-around ambient lighting, and a nine-speaker audio system.

    Tesla’s India debut comes amid increasing interest in electric vehicles and a push for cleaner mobility solutions. The company’s entry is expected to boost EV adoption and infrastructure development across the country.

    (With agencies inputs)

  • Tesla debuts in India with Model Y, starting at ₹59.89 Lakh

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Electric vehicle giant Tesla has officially entered the Indian market with the launch of its highly anticipated Model Y. The company introduced the rear-wheel drive (RWD) variant of the Model Y at a starting price of ₹59.89 lakh ($69,779) (ex-showroom), while the Long Range RWD version is priced at ₹67.89 lakh ($79,107) according to the company’s website.

    With this launch, India joins the growing list of countries offering Tesla’s popular all-electric SUV. Comparatively, the Model Y starts at $44,990 in the United States, 263,500 yuan ($36,764) in China, and €45,970 ($ 53,700) in Germany.

    Deliveries for the Model Y are scheduled to begin in the third quarter of 2025, with the vehicle initially available in Mumbai, Delhi, and Gurugram. On Tuesday, Tesla opened its first showroom—dubbed the “Experience Centre”—at Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) in Mumbai. A second showroom is expected to open soon in New Delhi.

    Speaking at the inauguration of the Mumbai Experience Centre, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis welcomed Tesla’s arrival, stating, “This is not just the inauguration of an Experience Centre, but a statement that Tesla has arrived in the city of Mumbai—India’s entrepreneurial capital.”

    The Model Y brings competitive specifications to the Indian EV market. The RWD version offers a claimed range of up to 500 kilometers on a full charge, while the Long Range RWD trim delivers up to 622 kilometers. Tesla’s fast-charging technology enables the addition of up to 238 kilometers of range in just 15 minutes for the RWD model, and 267 kilometers for the Long Range version.

    Performance-wise, the Model Y RWD accelerates from 0 to 100 kmph in 5.9 seconds, while the Long Range RWD achieves the same in 5.6 seconds. Both variants have an electronically limited top speed of 201 kmph.

    Inside the cabin, the Model Y is packed with premium features. These include a 15.4-inch front touchscreen infotainment system, an 8-inch rear touchscreen, ventilated powered front seats, a heated and powered second-row, ambient lighting in the footwell and door pockets, wrap-around ambient lighting, and a nine-speaker audio system.

    Tesla’s India debut comes amid increasing interest in electric vehicles and a push for cleaner mobility solutions. The company’s entry is expected to boost EV adoption and infrastructure development across the country.

    (With agencies inputs)

  • Tesla debuts in India with Model Y, starting at ₹59.89 Lakh

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Electric vehicle giant Tesla has officially entered the Indian market with the launch of its highly anticipated Model Y. The company introduced the rear-wheel drive (RWD) variant of the Model Y at a starting price of ₹59.89 lakh ($69,779) (ex-showroom), while the Long Range RWD version is priced at ₹67.89 lakh ($79,107) according to the company’s website.

    With this launch, India joins the growing list of countries offering Tesla’s popular all-electric SUV. Comparatively, the Model Y starts at $44,990 in the United States, 263,500 yuan ($36,764) in China, and €45,970 ($ 53,700) in Germany.

    Deliveries for the Model Y are scheduled to begin in the third quarter of 2025, with the vehicle initially available in Mumbai, Delhi, and Gurugram. On Tuesday, Tesla opened its first showroom—dubbed the “Experience Centre”—at Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) in Mumbai. A second showroom is expected to open soon in New Delhi.

    Speaking at the inauguration of the Mumbai Experience Centre, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis welcomed Tesla’s arrival, stating, “This is not just the inauguration of an Experience Centre, but a statement that Tesla has arrived in the city of Mumbai—India’s entrepreneurial capital.”

    The Model Y brings competitive specifications to the Indian EV market. The RWD version offers a claimed range of up to 500 kilometers on a full charge, while the Long Range RWD trim delivers up to 622 kilometers. Tesla’s fast-charging technology enables the addition of up to 238 kilometers of range in just 15 minutes for the RWD model, and 267 kilometers for the Long Range version.

    Performance-wise, the Model Y RWD accelerates from 0 to 100 kmph in 5.9 seconds, while the Long Range RWD achieves the same in 5.6 seconds. Both variants have an electronically limited top speed of 201 kmph.

    Inside the cabin, the Model Y is packed with premium features. These include a 15.4-inch front touchscreen infotainment system, an 8-inch rear touchscreen, ventilated powered front seats, a heated and powered second-row, ambient lighting in the footwell and door pockets, wrap-around ambient lighting, and a nine-speaker audio system.

    Tesla’s India debut comes amid increasing interest in electric vehicles and a push for cleaner mobility solutions. The company’s entry is expected to boost EV adoption and infrastructure development across the country.

    (With agencies inputs)

  • Tesla debuts in India with Model Y, starting at ₹59.89 Lakh

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Electric vehicle giant Tesla has officially entered the Indian market with the launch of its highly anticipated Model Y. The company introduced the rear-wheel drive (RWD) variant of the Model Y at a starting price of ₹59.89 lakh ($69,779) (ex-showroom), while the Long Range RWD version is priced at ₹67.89 lakh ($79,107) according to the company’s website.

    With this launch, India joins the growing list of countries offering Tesla’s popular all-electric SUV. Comparatively, the Model Y starts at $44,990 in the United States, 263,500 yuan ($36,764) in China, and €45,970 ($ 53,700) in Germany.

    Deliveries for the Model Y are scheduled to begin in the third quarter of 2025, with the vehicle initially available in Mumbai, Delhi, and Gurugram. On Tuesday, Tesla opened its first showroom—dubbed the “Experience Centre”—at Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) in Mumbai. A second showroom is expected to open soon in New Delhi.

    Speaking at the inauguration of the Mumbai Experience Centre, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis welcomed Tesla’s arrival, stating, “This is not just the inauguration of an Experience Centre, but a statement that Tesla has arrived in the city of Mumbai—India’s entrepreneurial capital.”

    The Model Y brings competitive specifications to the Indian EV market. The RWD version offers a claimed range of up to 500 kilometers on a full charge, while the Long Range RWD trim delivers up to 622 kilometers. Tesla’s fast-charging technology enables the addition of up to 238 kilometers of range in just 15 minutes for the RWD model, and 267 kilometers for the Long Range version.

    Performance-wise, the Model Y RWD accelerates from 0 to 100 kmph in 5.9 seconds, while the Long Range RWD achieves the same in 5.6 seconds. Both variants have an electronically limited top speed of 201 kmph.

    Inside the cabin, the Model Y is packed with premium features. These include a 15.4-inch front touchscreen infotainment system, an 8-inch rear touchscreen, ventilated powered front seats, a heated and powered second-row, ambient lighting in the footwell and door pockets, wrap-around ambient lighting, and a nine-speaker audio system.

    Tesla’s India debut comes amid increasing interest in electric vehicles and a push for cleaner mobility solutions. The company’s entry is expected to boost EV adoption and infrastructure development across the country.

    (With agencies inputs)

  • Tesla debuts in India with Model Y, starting at ₹59.89 Lakh

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Electric vehicle giant Tesla has officially entered the Indian market with the launch of its highly anticipated Model Y. The company introduced the rear-wheel drive (RWD) variant of the Model Y at a starting price of ₹59.89 lakh ($69,779) (ex-showroom), while the Long Range RWD version is priced at ₹67.89 lakh ($79,107) according to the company’s website.

    With this launch, India joins the growing list of countries offering Tesla’s popular all-electric SUV. Comparatively, the Model Y starts at $44,990 in the United States, 263,500 yuan ($36,764) in China, and €45,970 ($ 53,700) in Germany.

    Deliveries for the Model Y are scheduled to begin in the third quarter of 2025, with the vehicle initially available in Mumbai, Delhi, and Gurugram. On Tuesday, Tesla opened its first showroom—dubbed the “Experience Centre”—at Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) in Mumbai. A second showroom is expected to open soon in New Delhi.

    Speaking at the inauguration of the Mumbai Experience Centre, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis welcomed Tesla’s arrival, stating, “This is not just the inauguration of an Experience Centre, but a statement that Tesla has arrived in the city of Mumbai—India’s entrepreneurial capital.”

    The Model Y brings competitive specifications to the Indian EV market. The RWD version offers a claimed range of up to 500 kilometers on a full charge, while the Long Range RWD trim delivers up to 622 kilometers. Tesla’s fast-charging technology enables the addition of up to 238 kilometers of range in just 15 minutes for the RWD model, and 267 kilometers for the Long Range version.

    Performance-wise, the Model Y RWD accelerates from 0 to 100 kmph in 5.9 seconds, while the Long Range RWD achieves the same in 5.6 seconds. Both variants have an electronically limited top speed of 201 kmph.

    Inside the cabin, the Model Y is packed with premium features. These include a 15.4-inch front touchscreen infotainment system, an 8-inch rear touchscreen, ventilated powered front seats, a heated and powered second-row, ambient lighting in the footwell and door pockets, wrap-around ambient lighting, and a nine-speaker audio system.

    Tesla’s India debut comes amid increasing interest in electric vehicles and a push for cleaner mobility solutions. The company’s entry is expected to boost EV adoption and infrastructure development across the country.

    (With agencies inputs)

  • Tesla debuts in India with Model Y, starting at ₹59.89 Lakh

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Electric vehicle giant Tesla has officially entered the Indian market with the launch of its highly anticipated Model Y. The company introduced the rear-wheel drive (RWD) variant of the Model Y at a starting price of ₹59.89 lakh ($69,779) (ex-showroom), while the Long Range RWD version is priced at ₹67.89 lakh ($79,107) according to the company’s website.

    With this launch, India joins the growing list of countries offering Tesla’s popular all-electric SUV. Comparatively, the Model Y starts at $44,990 in the United States, 263,500 yuan ($36,764) in China, and €45,970 ($ 53,700) in Germany.

    Deliveries for the Model Y are scheduled to begin in the third quarter of 2025, with the vehicle initially available in Mumbai, Delhi, and Gurugram. On Tuesday, Tesla opened its first showroom—dubbed the “Experience Centre”—at Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) in Mumbai. A second showroom is expected to open soon in New Delhi.

    Speaking at the inauguration of the Mumbai Experience Centre, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis welcomed Tesla’s arrival, stating, “This is not just the inauguration of an Experience Centre, but a statement that Tesla has arrived in the city of Mumbai—India’s entrepreneurial capital.”

    The Model Y brings competitive specifications to the Indian EV market. The RWD version offers a claimed range of up to 500 kilometers on a full charge, while the Long Range RWD trim delivers up to 622 kilometers. Tesla’s fast-charging technology enables the addition of up to 238 kilometers of range in just 15 minutes for the RWD model, and 267 kilometers for the Long Range version.

    Performance-wise, the Model Y RWD accelerates from 0 to 100 kmph in 5.9 seconds, while the Long Range RWD achieves the same in 5.6 seconds. Both variants have an electronically limited top speed of 201 kmph.

    Inside the cabin, the Model Y is packed with premium features. These include a 15.4-inch front touchscreen infotainment system, an 8-inch rear touchscreen, ventilated powered front seats, a heated and powered second-row, ambient lighting in the footwell and door pockets, wrap-around ambient lighting, and a nine-speaker audio system.

    Tesla’s India debut comes amid increasing interest in electric vehicles and a push for cleaner mobility solutions. The company’s entry is expected to boost EV adoption and infrastructure development across the country.

    (With agencies inputs)

  • Tesla debuts in India with Model Y, starting at ₹59.89 Lakh

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Electric vehicle giant Tesla has officially entered the Indian market with the launch of its highly anticipated Model Y. The company introduced the rear-wheel drive (RWD) variant of the Model Y at a starting price of ₹59.89 lakh ($69,779) (ex-showroom), while the Long Range RWD version is priced at ₹67.89 lakh ($79,107) according to the company’s website.

    With this launch, India joins the growing list of countries offering Tesla’s popular all-electric SUV. Comparatively, the Model Y starts at $44,990 in the United States, 263,500 yuan ($36,764) in China, and €45,970 ($ 53,700) in Germany.

    Deliveries for the Model Y are scheduled to begin in the third quarter of 2025, with the vehicle initially available in Mumbai, Delhi, and Gurugram. On Tuesday, Tesla opened its first showroom—dubbed the “Experience Centre”—at Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) in Mumbai. A second showroom is expected to open soon in New Delhi.

    Speaking at the inauguration of the Mumbai Experience Centre, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis welcomed Tesla’s arrival, stating, “This is not just the inauguration of an Experience Centre, but a statement that Tesla has arrived in the city of Mumbai—India’s entrepreneurial capital.”

    The Model Y brings competitive specifications to the Indian EV market. The RWD version offers a claimed range of up to 500 kilometers on a full charge, while the Long Range RWD trim delivers up to 622 kilometers. Tesla’s fast-charging technology enables the addition of up to 238 kilometers of range in just 15 minutes for the RWD model, and 267 kilometers for the Long Range version.

    Performance-wise, the Model Y RWD accelerates from 0 to 100 kmph in 5.9 seconds, while the Long Range RWD achieves the same in 5.6 seconds. Both variants have an electronically limited top speed of 201 kmph.

    Inside the cabin, the Model Y is packed with premium features. These include a 15.4-inch front touchscreen infotainment system, an 8-inch rear touchscreen, ventilated powered front seats, a heated and powered second-row, ambient lighting in the footwell and door pockets, wrap-around ambient lighting, and a nine-speaker audio system.

    Tesla’s India debut comes amid increasing interest in electric vehicles and a push for cleaner mobility solutions. The company’s entry is expected to boost EV adoption and infrastructure development across the country.

    (With agencies inputs)

  • Tesla debuts in India with Model Y, starting at ₹59.89 Lakh

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Electric vehicle giant Tesla has officially entered the Indian market with the launch of its highly anticipated Model Y. The company introduced the rear-wheel drive (RWD) variant of the Model Y at a starting price of ₹59.89 lakh ($69,779) (ex-showroom), while the Long Range RWD version is priced at ₹67.89 lakh ($79,107) according to the company’s website.

    With this launch, India joins the growing list of countries offering Tesla’s popular all-electric SUV. Comparatively, the Model Y starts at $44,990 in the United States, 263,500 yuan ($36,764) in China, and €45,970 ($ 53,700) in Germany.

    Deliveries for the Model Y are scheduled to begin in the third quarter of 2025, with the vehicle initially available in Mumbai, Delhi, and Gurugram. On Tuesday, Tesla opened its first showroom—dubbed the “Experience Centre”—at Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) in Mumbai. A second showroom is expected to open soon in New Delhi.

    Speaking at the inauguration of the Mumbai Experience Centre, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis welcomed Tesla’s arrival, stating, “This is not just the inauguration of an Experience Centre, but a statement that Tesla has arrived in the city of Mumbai—India’s entrepreneurial capital.”

    The Model Y brings competitive specifications to the Indian EV market. The RWD version offers a claimed range of up to 500 kilometers on a full charge, while the Long Range RWD trim delivers up to 622 kilometers. Tesla’s fast-charging technology enables the addition of up to 238 kilometers of range in just 15 minutes for the RWD model, and 267 kilometers for the Long Range version.

    Performance-wise, the Model Y RWD accelerates from 0 to 100 kmph in 5.9 seconds, while the Long Range RWD achieves the same in 5.6 seconds. Both variants have an electronically limited top speed of 201 kmph.

    Inside the cabin, the Model Y is packed with premium features. These include a 15.4-inch front touchscreen infotainment system, an 8-inch rear touchscreen, ventilated powered front seats, a heated and powered second-row, ambient lighting in the footwell and door pockets, wrap-around ambient lighting, and a nine-speaker audio system.

    Tesla’s India debut comes amid increasing interest in electric vehicles and a push for cleaner mobility solutions. The company’s entry is expected to boost EV adoption and infrastructure development across the country.

    (With agencies inputs)

  • Tesla debuts in India with Model Y, starting at ₹59.89 Lakh

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Electric vehicle giant Tesla has officially entered the Indian market with the launch of its highly anticipated Model Y. The company introduced the rear-wheel drive (RWD) variant of the Model Y at a starting price of ₹59.89 lakh ($69,779) (ex-showroom), while the Long Range RWD version is priced at ₹67.89 lakh ($79,107) according to the company’s website.

    With this launch, India joins the growing list of countries offering Tesla’s popular all-electric SUV. Comparatively, the Model Y starts at $44,990 in the United States, 263,500 yuan ($36,764) in China, and €45,970 ($ 53,700) in Germany.

    Deliveries for the Model Y are scheduled to begin in the third quarter of 2025, with the vehicle initially available in Mumbai, Delhi, and Gurugram. On Tuesday, Tesla opened its first showroom—dubbed the “Experience Centre”—at Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) in Mumbai. A second showroom is expected to open soon in New Delhi.

    Speaking at the inauguration of the Mumbai Experience Centre, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis welcomed Tesla’s arrival, stating, “This is not just the inauguration of an Experience Centre, but a statement that Tesla has arrived in the city of Mumbai—India’s entrepreneurial capital.”

    The Model Y brings competitive specifications to the Indian EV market. The RWD version offers a claimed range of up to 500 kilometers on a full charge, while the Long Range RWD trim delivers up to 622 kilometers. Tesla’s fast-charging technology enables the addition of up to 238 kilometers of range in just 15 minutes for the RWD model, and 267 kilometers for the Long Range version.

    Performance-wise, the Model Y RWD accelerates from 0 to 100 kmph in 5.9 seconds, while the Long Range RWD achieves the same in 5.6 seconds. Both variants have an electronically limited top speed of 201 kmph.

    Inside the cabin, the Model Y is packed with premium features. These include a 15.4-inch front touchscreen infotainment system, an 8-inch rear touchscreen, ventilated powered front seats, a heated and powered second-row, ambient lighting in the footwell and door pockets, wrap-around ambient lighting, and a nine-speaker audio system.

    Tesla’s India debut comes amid increasing interest in electric vehicles and a push for cleaner mobility solutions. The company’s entry is expected to boost EV adoption and infrastructure development across the country.

    (With agencies inputs)

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Natural England promotes outdoor healthcare in Sussex

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Natural England promotes outdoor healthcare in Sussex

    Novel partnership takes treatment into green spaces, with a level 3 qualification available

    Healthcare professionals from across Sussex are being trained to make more use of outdoor settings in treating those with poor mental health.

    Less than half the population say they’ve been to the countryside or a local park recently[i].

    But the NHS is turning to places like that to help with certain treatments.  

    Natural England is funding courses aimed at nurses, therapists and other healthcare professionals from across Sussex to make more use of outdoor settings in treating those with poor mental health.

    The training builds on evidence being outside can help lead to lower blood pressure and a reduced risk of heart attacks and strokes[ii].

    Course-goers learn a variety of skills, from being able to adapt treatments to new surroundings to using their experience and training from many years inside, outside. 

    By the end of the sessions, which are spread over 5 months, those attending should have the confidence and competence to work with groups in a range of outdoor settings. 

    The course, which carries a formal training accreditation, is suited to professionals who support children, young people and adults, including, from psychiatrists and psychologists to social and youth workers, therapists and those working in family support.

    Healthcare staff have reported feeling more relaxed when outside, when not necessarily working, as well as refreshed and re-energised. It’s hoped these benefits can transfer themselves to the care they give patients.  

    The training is delivered by Circle of Life Rediscovery, a community interest company based in Laughton, near Lewes.

    Through the workshops, the partnership between Natural England and CLR is already highlighting the need to use green spaces where we live and work to improve health and wellbeing.   

    Sarah Davies, Natural England’s principal adviser for partnerships in Sussex and Kent, said:

    “The importance of open spaces cannot be underestimated. Nature can relax us, educate us, and help reduce anxiety and depression.

    “We know there are countless benefits to connecting with nature – it makes us feel better, physically and mentally.”

    Some 36 NHS staff in Sussex have done the course since 2023. It offers an ITC level 3 qualification, providing students with the necessary skills to work with individuals and groups of all ages.

    The 2024 cohort of 16 health service staff recently met at Laughton Greenwood to share personal experiences of what they learned in the sessions. The group also heard from professionals with long experience in using nature to aide healthcare.

    A senior nurse from Sussex who took part in the training said:

    “My experience doing this course has really transformed my thinking regarding nature-based practice. I have managed to apply parts of what I learnt within my work environment and have full backing from colleagues regarding trying to utilise what I learnt.

    “I never realised the true impact outdoors can have on an individual and team level and hope to see it being prescribed in the future as a treatment for certain health problems.”

    The course, which carries a formal training accreditation, is suited to professionals who support children, young people and adults.

    Marina Robb, director and founder of Circle of Life Rediscovery, said:

    “To be able to sustainably bring the benefits of nature-based practice into the NHS and provide access to nature for physical and mental health, training NHS staff is a sensible way forward for teams and their service-users.”

    This year’s sessions are underway, with bookings open for the 2026 courses, taking place at Laughton from late June: https://circleofliferediscovery.com/certificate-in-nature-based-practice/.

    This nature-based training for NHS staff coincides with a wide-ranging survey into how exposure to natural spaces positively affects people’s health, behaviour and attitude to the environment over an extended period of time.    

    The three-year study will involve a sample of approximately 18,000 adults across the country, in a partnership between Natural England, the University of Exeter and the Natural Environment Research Council, and developed by organisations from a range of sectors.

    [i] The People and Nature Survey for England 2024: https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/the-people-and-nature-surveys-for-england-adults-data-y5q3-october-2024-december-2024

    [ii] Blog by Dr Sue Williams, Natural Resources Wales: Mending minds – the benefits of a ‘dose of nature’ for mental health

    Contact us:

    Journalists only 0800 141 2743 or communications_se@environment-agency.gov.uk.

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Strategy launched to support autistic and ADHD people.

    Source: City of York

    Titled “A City That Works for All”, the five-year plan sets out a vision for a more inclusive, supportive, and understanding York.

    This all-age strategy, developed through extensive co-production with neurodivergent residents, families, and local organisations, outlines three key pillars:

    • Changing Society for Inclusion – Tackling stigma and improving public understanding of neurodiversity
    • Making Diagnosis and Assessment Work – Reducing waiting times and improving access to timely, effective assessments
    • Improving Support in Every Setting – Ensuring services in education, employment, housing, and healthcare meet the needs of neurodivergent people

    The strategy recognises that barriers in society are often at the root of exclusion and poorer outcomes for autistic people and those with ADHD, and these must be tackled alongside the need to improve health and care services.

    It draws on findings from York’s 2025 Health Needs Assessment, which revealed significant gaps in diagnosis, long waiting lists, and high rates of co-occurring mental health conditions.

    Councillor Lucy Steels-Walshaw, Executive Member for Health, Wellbeing and Adult Social Care, said:

    It’s absolutely vital that services meet everyone’s needs, including the approximately 1 in 7 neurodiverse people living in our city. Consultation on this strategy will ask all organisations, service providers and residents to support us in creating a city in which all neurodiverse people thrive and play an active part. Small changes can often make big differences”.

    Michael Ash-McMahon, NHS Humber and North Yorkshire Integrated Care Board (ICB) Interim Place Director for York, said:

    The draft strategy is a welcome step towards creating a City that celebrates neurodiversity and reaffirms the NHS shared commitment to improving diagnosis and tackling long waiting lists for assessment. The ICB and City of York Council are eager to hear what people think of the strategy to ensure the voice of our population is heard and fully understood, before a final version is published later in the year.”

    Ayesha, who is a neurodivergent student mentor living in York, and is a proud member of York’s thriving LGBTQIA+ community. Ayesha is neurodivergent and is encouraging other people to have their say:

    This strategy is important to me because I get to see the Council in action, working to make this city more accessible for the neurodivergent community, which is a vital step closer to a more fair and equitable society.”

    The draft strategy is now open for public consultation with feedback invited from residents, professionals, and community groups. The final version will be published in Autumn 2025.

    You can have your say in various ways:

    • In person: At the Gateway Centre in Acomb on Tuesday 15 July 11-1pm and Monday 21 July 5-7pm
    • Join the online session on Thursday 31 July 1-2pm
    • Complete an online survey
    • Complete a paper survey: Available from Customer Services at West Offices

    For more information and to view the draft strategy, visit the City of York Council website.

    City of York Council is also inviting children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and their families in York to have their say on a new SEND strategy.

    You can have your say on the draft SEND strategy at the same in person or online events as for the Autism and ADHD Strategy, or complete the online survey

    The Autism and ADHD Strategy consultation will run until Monday 11 August. The SEND survey will run until Sunday 7 September.  Feedback will be used to shape the final strategies.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: V. Zelensky held telephone conversations with the US President and NATO Secretary General

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    Kyiv, July 15 /Xinhua/ — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Telegram on Tuesday night that he had telephone conversations with US President Donald Trump and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.

    According to V. Zelensky, during the conversation with the head of the White House, issues such as strengthening the air defense system of Ukraine, etc. were raised.

    The parties also agreed to call each other more often and continue to coordinate their steps.

    During the conversation with M. Rutte, V. Zelensky thanked the allies for their willingness to provide Ukraine with additional Patriot air defense systems. According to him, the United States, Germany and Norway are working together on this issue.

    Separately, the NATO Secretary General informed V. Zelensky about the details of his talks with D. Trump and cooperation between Europe and the United States to increase support for Ukraine. –0–

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: Municipality Finance issues a NOK 250 million tap under its MTN programme

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Municipality Finance Plc
    Stock exchange release
    15 July 2025 at 10:00 am (EEST)

    Municipality Finance issues a NOK 250 million tap under its MTN programme

    On 16 July 2025 Municipality Finance Plc issues a new tranche in an amount of NOK 250 million to an existing series of notes issued on 6 June 2025. With the new tranche, the aggregate nominal amount of the notes is NOK 2.250 billion. The maturity date of the notes is 6 January 2031. The notes bears interest at a fixed rate of 4.125 % per annum.

    The new tranche is issued under MuniFin’s EUR 50 billion programme for the issuance of debt instruments. The offering circular, the supplemental offering circular and final terms of the notes are available in English on the company’s website at https://www.kuntarahoitus.fi/en/for-investors.

    MuniFin has applied for the new tranche to be admitted to trading on the Helsinki Stock Exchange maintained by Nasdaq Helsinki. The public trading is expected to commence on 16 July 2025. The existing notes in the series are admitted to trading on the Helsinki Stock Exchange.

    J.P.Morgan SE acts as the Dealer for the issue of the new tranche.

    MUNICIPALITY FINANCE PLC

    Further information:

    Joakim Holmström
    Executive Vice President, Capital Markets and Sustainability
    tel. +358 50 444 3638

    MuniFin (Municipality Finance Plc) is one of Finland’s largest credit institutions. The owners of the company include Finnish municipalities, the public sector pension fund Keva and the State of Finland.
    The Group’s balance sheet is over EUR 53 billion.

    MuniFin builds a better and more sustainable future with its customers. Our customers include municipalities, joint municipal authorities, wellbeing services counties, joint county authorities, corporate entities under the control of the above-mentioned organisations, and affordable social housing. Lending is used for environmentally and socially responsible investment targets such as public transportation, sustainable buildings, hospitals and healthcare centres, schools and day care centres, and homes for people with special needs.

    MuniFin’s customers are domestic but the company operates in a completely global business environment. The company is an active Finnish bond issuer in international capital markets and the first Finnish green and social bond issuer. The funding is exclusively guaranteed by the Municipal Guarantee Board.

    Read more: https://www.kuntarahoitus.fi/en/

    Important Information

    The information contained herein is not for release, publication or distribution, in whole or in part, directly or indirectly, in or into any such country or jurisdiction or otherwise in such circumstances in which the release, publication or distribution would be unlawful. The information contained herein does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of, any securities or other financial instruments in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration, exemption from registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction.

    This communication does not constitute an offer of securities for sale in the United States. The notes have not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”) or under the applicable securities laws of any state of the United States and may not be offered or sold, directly or indirectly, within the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, U.S. persons except pursuant to an applicable exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the registration requirements of the Securities Act.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: CoinShares Announces Amendment to Financial Calendar

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Tuesday, 15 July 2025 | SAINT HELIER, Jersey – CoinShares International Limited (“CoinShares” or the “Company“) (Nasdaq Stockholm Market: CS; US OTCQX: CNSRF), a global investment firm specialising in digital assets, today announces an amendment to the Company’s financial calendar published on its website, https://coinshares.com.

    In addition to the quarterly earnings reports the Company has released since 2021, CoinShares has also historically elected to engage its auditors to provide an interim review opinion. While this was performed as part of the Q3 earnings during 2023 and 2024, it has been determined that the Company will now perform this review at the halfway point of the year. As such, the release date for the Q2 earnings as per the Company’s website has been amended from 19 August 2025 to 29 August 2025.

    This is to allow sufficient time for the requisite work to be performed by the Group’s auditors for provision of the review opinion.

    About CoinShares

    CoinShares is a leading global investment company specialising in digital assets, that delivers a broad range of financial services across investment management, trading and securities to a wide array of clients that includes corporations, financial institutions and individuals. Focusing on crypto since 2013, the firm is headquartered in Jersey, with offices in France, Sweden, Switzerland, the UK and the US. CoinShares is regulated in Jersey by the Jersey Financial Services Commission, in France by the Autorité des marchés financiers, and in the US by the Securities and Exchange Commission, National Futures Association and Financial Industry Regulatory Authority. CoinShares is publicly listed on the Nasdaq Stockholm under the ticker CS and the OTCQX under the ticker CNSRF.

    For more information on CoinShares, please visit: https://coinshares.com
    Company | +44 (0)1534 513 100 | enquiries@coinshares.com
    Investor Relations | +44 (0)1534 513 100 | enquiries@coinshares.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: StepStone Group Expands Investor Access to Evergreen Funds with Goji’s Technology

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, July 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — StepStone Group (Nasdaq: STEP), a global private markets solutions provider, announced today that it is utilizing Goji’s technology to improve access to several of its European private market evergreen funds. Goji is a global provider of technology-enabled solutions to the private markets. Its end-to-end investment platform will simplify the complexities of the investor journey for several of StepStone’s funds:

    • StepStone Private Markets (Luxembourg) (“SPRIM Lux”) spans private equity, real assets and private debt, giving access to top investment managers worldwide, while seeking to provide long-term capital appreciation, ordinary income and substantial diversification through a single investment. As of May 31, 2025, SPRIM Lux had $351 million in assets under management, or AUM and had delivered a 43.81%1 total net return since inception in September of 2022.
    • StepStone Private Venture and Growth (Luxembourg) (“SPRING Lux”) is a broadly diversified venture and growth strategy fund leveraging an open architecture approach, selecting managers across the innovation economy. As of May 31, 2025, SPRING Lux had $427 million in AUM and had delivered a 70.65%2 total net return since inception in November of 2022.
    • StepStone Private Infrastructure (Luxembourg) (“STRUCTURE Lux”) seeks to provide current income and long-term capital appreciation by offering access to a global investment portfolio of private infrastructure assets. As of May 31, 2025, STRUCTURE Lux had $89.9 million in AUM and had delivered a 32.24%3 total net return since inception in September of 2023.
    • StepStone Private Credit Europe ELTIF (“SCRED Europe”) is structured to offer access to a broadly diversified, European-focused private credit strategy, with a primary focus on senior secured direct lending. The fund successfully launched in February 2025 with over €250 million in seed capital, backed by a robust pipeline of opportunities.

    “Goji shares our vision of delivering an industry-leading, tailor-made onboarding experience for our investors across the globe,” said Neil Menard, Partner and President of Distribution at StepStone Private Wealth. “Powered by Euroclear, their best-in-class digital infrastructure and deep understanding of regulatory requirements across different markets will enable us to provide our investors with a more streamlined, efficient investment experience.”

    About StepStone Group

    StepStone Group Inc. (Nasdaq: STEP) is a global private markets investment firm focused on providing customized investment solutions and advisory and data services to its clients. As of March 31, 2025, StepStone was responsible for approximately $709 billion of total capital, including $189 billion of assets under management. StepStone’s clients include some of the world’s largest public and private defined benefit and defined contribution pension funds, sovereign wealth funds and insurance companies, as well as prominent endowments, foundations, family offices and private wealth clients, which include high-net-worth and mass affluent individuals. StepStone partners with its clients to develop and build private markets portfolios designed to meet their specific objectives across the private equity, infrastructure, private debt and real estate asset classes.

    About Goji

    Goji is a leading provider of investor platform technology and services. With the private asset market opening to new classes of investors, Goji makes it easy for asset managers, fund administrators and asset owners to give all investors digital access to private funds and stay ahead of their industry competitors. Goji’s best-in-class platform, which is secure, scalable, and customizable, unlocks new topline revenue and reduces costs. The company serves over 30,000 investors from more than 86 jurisdictions. As part of the Euroclear group, Goji has helped build a global network for private funds, combining Goji’s platform technology and Euroclear’s financial markets infrastructure to create scalability and growth for all participants. Goji is headquartered in the UK and is regulated by the FCA.  

    Contacts

    Media:
    Brian Ruby / Chris Gillick / Matt Lettiero, ICR
    StepStonePR@icrinc.com
    1-203-682-8268

    ______________________________
    1 This figure reflects the returns of the Class A (EUR) shares of SPRIM Lux. The performance does not fully represent the performance across all of the share classes of SPRIM Lux.
    2 This figure reflects the returns of the Class A (USD) shares of SPRING Lux. The performance does not fully represent the performance across all of the share classes of SPRING Lux.
    3 This figure reflects the returns of the Class E (USD) shares of STRUCTURE Lux. The performance does not fully represent the performance across all of the share classes of STRUCTURE Lux. Class E (USD) shares are available for subscription only by employees or affiliates of the StepStone Group and are not subject to the investment management fee or the incentive fee. [Performance shown for the Class E (USD) shares assumes the Investment Management Fee or the Incentive Fee were charged since Class E (USD) shares inception on 27 September 2023.

    THIS DOCUMENT IS A MARKETING COMMUNICATION. PLEASE REFER TO THE OFFERING MEMORANDUM OF SPRIM LUX, SPRING LUX, STRUCTURE LUX AND SCRED EUROPE (COLLECTIVELY, THE “FUNDS”) BEFORE MAKING ANY FINAL INVESTMENT DECISIONS.

    PAST PERFORMANCE IS NOT NECESSARILY INDICATIVE OF FUTURE RESULTS. ACTUAL PERFORMANCE MAY VARY.

    This document is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an offer to sell, a solicitation to buy, or a recommendation for any security, or as an offer to provide advisory or other services by StepStone Group Private Wealth LLC (“SPW”), StepStone Group LP (“StepStone”), StepStone Group Europe Alternative Investments Limited (“SGEAIL”) or their subsidiaries or affiliates (collectively, the “Managers”) in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation, purchase or sale would be unlawful under the securities laws of such jurisdiction. The information contained in this document should not be construed as legal, financial or investment advice on any subject matter. The Managers expressly disclaim all liability in respect to actions taken based on any or all of the information in this document.

    Before investing you should carefully consider the Funds’ investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses. This and other information are explained in the relevant Offering Memorandum for each Fund, a copy of which may be obtained from SGEAIL upon request.

    Information contained herein is subject to change and amendment. An indication of interest in response to this advertisement will involve no obligation or commitment of any kind.

    Interests in the Funds are not registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended or any similar U.S. state securities statutes and the Funds are generally not offered to US Persons (as defined in the relevant Offering Memorandum).

    Prospective investors should inform themselves and obtain appropriate advice as to any applicable legal or regulatory requirements and any applicable taxation and exchange control regulations in the countries of their citizenship, residence or domicile which might be relevant to the suitability, subscription, purchase, holding, exchange, redemption or disposal of any investments.

    An investment involves a number of risks and there are conflicts of interest. Please refer to the risks outlined in detail in the relevant Offering Memorandum for each Fund.

    Marketing in the European Union

    The Funds are alternative investment funds (“AIFs”) for the purpose of Alternative Investment Fund Managers Directive (“AIFMD”). SGEAIL is the alternative investment fund manager (“AIFM”) of the Funds.

    The Funds that do not qualify as ELTIFs can be marketed to Professional Investors in the EEA in accordance with the requirements set out in Article 32 of AIFMD.

    Marketing of the Funds outside the EEA or in the EEA to investors other than Professional Investors (where relevant) must comply with applicable national private placement regimes. Those investors are required to inform themselves of any applicable local requirements or restrictions before investing in the Funds and to assess the impact of any risks they may be exposed to when investing in the Funds.

    Notice to all European Economic Area (EEA) residents

    In the EEA, this document is disseminated by SGEAIL.

    The Funds may only be offered or placed in an EEA Member State: (1) to Professional Investors to the extent that they have been registered for marketing in the relevant EEA Member State in accordance with Article 32 AIFMD (as amended and as implemented into the local law/regulation of the relevant EEA Member State); (2) to non-professional investors who meet the requirements of any national law/regulation which permits them to invest in AIFs, as specifically identified below; or (3) as they may otherwise be lawfully offered or placed in that EEA Member State, including at the exclusive initiative of an investor where permitted in accordance with the AIFMD.

    A list of the EEA Member States in which the Funds are registered for marketing under Article 32 AIFMD is available from the Managers upon request.

    Notice to investors in Austria

    Certain of the Funds have been notified to the Austrian Financial Market Authority (FMA) for marketing to professional investors (Professionelle Anleger) within the meaning of § 2 para 1 no 33 of the Austrian Alternative Investment Funds Act (Alternative Investmentfonds Manager-Gesetz; AIFMG) in accordance with Article 32 AIFMD and § 31 AIFMG. In the Republic of Austria, the relevant Funds may only be offered or placed and any offering or marketing materials related thereto may only be distributed to investors who are either (a) professional investors (Professionelle Anleger) as defined in § 2 para 1 no 33 AIFMG or where relevant (b) qualified retail investors (Qualifizierte Privatkunden) as defined in § 2 para 1 no 42 AIFMG. Distribution of the relevant Funds and any offering or marketing materials related thereto to retail investors (Privatkunden) as defined in § 2 para 1 no 36 AIFMG in the Republic of Austria is not permitted. Subscriptions by retail investors (Privatkunden) will therefore not be accepted. None of the Managers or the relevant Funds are subject to supervision by the FMA or any other Austrian authority. Neither the relevant Offering Memorandum, nor the relevant key information document (KID) have been reviewed by the FMA or any other Austrian authority.

    Notice to professional and semi-professional investors in Germany

    Certain of the Funds have been notified to the German Financial Services Supervisory Authority (Bundesanstalt für Finanzdienstleistungsaufsicht, or BAFIN) in accordance with Section 323 of the German investment code (Kapitalanlagegesetzbuch – KAGB).

    The relevant Funds may only be marketed and offered to professional and, where relevant to semi-professional investors in the Federal Republic of Germany, as defined in Section 1 (19) nos. 32 and 33 of the KAGB. The relevant Funds have not been admitted for marketing to retail investors within the meaning of Section 1 (19) no. 31 of the KAGB in Germany. Accordingly, the relevant Funds may not be offered and marketed to retail investors in Germany. This disclosure, the relevant Offering Memorandum and any other document relating to the relevant Funds, as well as information or statements contained therein, may not be supplied to retail investors in Germany or any other means of public marketing. Any resale of the relevant Funds in Germany may only be made to professional and semi-professional investors in Germany and in accordance with the provisions of the KAGB and any other applicable laws in Germany governing the sale and offering of the relevant Funds.

    Notice to investors in Italy

    Certain of the Funds have been passported with the Commissione Nazionale per le Società e la Borsa (CONSOB) for the marketing in Italy vis-à-vis professional investors in accordance with Article 32 AIFMD, article 43 of the Italian Legislative Decree of 24th February 1998, no. 58 (testo unico della finanza, the “TUF”) and relevant local implementing regulations in Italy. The relevant Funds may be distributed exclusively to the following categories of investors: (i) “professional investors” as defined in the AIFMD; or where relevant (ii) “non-professional investors” who: (1) invest at least EUR 500,000 in the relevant Fund; or (2) invest at least EUR 100,000 in the relevant Fund, and in the case of the latter, either: (a) the investment is made by a licensed portfolio manager on behalf of the non-professional investor; or (b) the investment is made by the non-professional investor in the context of the provision of investment advice, and is subject to the requirement that the entirety of any investments by that same non-professional investor in EU AIFs does not exceed ten percent (10%) of his or her financial portfolio as a result of a subscription or investment in the relevant Fund.

    Notice to investors in Switzerland

    The offer and the marketing of the Funds in Switzerland will be exclusively made to, and directed at, qualified investors (the “Qualified Investors”), as defined in Article 10(3) and (3ter) of the Swiss Collective Investment Schemes Act (“CISA”) and its implementing ordinance, at the exclusion of qualified investors with an opting-out pursuant to Article 5(1) of the Swiss Federal Law on Financial Services (“FinSA”) and without any portfolio management or advisory relationship with a financial intermediary pursuant to Article 10(3ter) CISA (“Excluded Qualified Investors”). Accordingly, the Funds have not been and will not be registered with the Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority (“FINMA”) and no representative or paying agent have been or will be appointed in Switzerland. This document and/or any other offering or marketing materials relating to The Funds may be made available in Switzerland solely to Qualified Investors, at the exclusion of Excluded Qualified Investors. The legal documents of the Funds may be obtained free of charge from the Managers.

    Notice to investors in the United Kingdom

    The Funds are alternative investment funds for the purpose of the Alternative Investment Fund Managers Regulations, 2013, as amended by the Alternative Investment Managers (Amendment, etc.) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 (“UK AIFM Regulations”). SGEAIL is the alternative investment fund manager (“AIFM”) of the Funds. 

    The Funds have been registered for marketing under Regulation 59(1) of the UK AIFM Regulations. On that basis, the Funds may be marketed in the United Kingdom to UK persons who qualify as Professional Investors.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Foreign Minister Lin delivers remarks at opening of 2025 ILA-ASIL Asia-Pacific Research Forum, urges democracies to jointly address challenges posed by authoritarian expansion

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    July 8, 2025  
    No. 232  

    Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung on July 7 attended the opening of the 2025 International Law Association-American Society of International Law Asia-Pacific Research Forum, where he addressed more than 50 noted international scholars from over 20 nations.
     
    In his remarks, Minister Lin said that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs had been promoting the policy of integrated diplomacy, which aimed to deepen partnerships with like-minded countries based on the values of freedom, democracy, and human rights. He explained that Taiwan had proactively leveraged its diplomatic strengths—consolidating diplomatic ties, expanding its alliance of friendly nations, and integrating the resources of the public and private sectors with the goal of having Taiwan continue to be a Taiwan of the world.
     
    Noting the extreme turbulence of international relations and the severe geopolitical challenges facing the Indo-Pacific region, Minister Lin said that in recent years, China had repeatedly challenged the rules-based international order, gravely undermining democracy, the rule of law, human rights, freedom, and even fair trade. He observed that the world’s leading states had gone on alert and that an increasing number of countries had acted by sending warships through the Taiwan Strait, underscoring that the Taiwan Strait constituted international waters and demonstrating the great importance that they attached to the security of the Indo-Pacific region.
     
    Minister Lin also pointed out that China had long sought to pressure Taiwan in the international arena, enacting the Anti-Secession Law in 2005 and 22 guidelines on punishing independence in 2024, among other legal warfare tools. He said that China had inappropriately distorted UN General Assembly (UNGA) Resolution 2758, seeking to weaponize the text and transform it into a tool to suppress Taiwan’s international participation and provide cover for an armed invasion. He stated that China had used the resolution as justification for its false claims that Taiwan was a part of China and that the Taiwan Strait was China’s internal waters, adding that such claims were clearly contrary to the facts and to democratic values.
     
    Minister Lin noted that in response to China’s efforts to distort UNGA Resolution 2758, last year the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China, the European Parliament, and the parliaments of Australia, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, and the Czech Republic passed resolutions clearly opposing China’s misrepresentations. He said that senior US officials had also publicly expressed a similar position and that the international community had gradually gained an accurate understanding of Resolution 2758—that it neither mentioned Taiwan nor precluded Taiwan’s international participation.
     
    Looking back on history, Minister Lin remarked that following the Second World War, the signing of the San Francisco Peace Treaty, which was binding under international law, had supplanted the political statements contained in the Cairo Declaration and the Potsdam Proclamation. He also pointed out that the People’s Republic of China had never governed Taiwan. He said that since the mid-1980s, Taiwan had experienced political liberalization and democratization, leading to the completion of its first direct presidential election in 1996. At that point, he said, the central executive and legislative representatives of government of the Republic of China were all elected by the people of Taiwan—and since then, the Republic of China government had been the sole legitimate government exercising effective rule over Taiwan and representing Taiwan internationally. He added that this underscored the cross-strait status quo that the Republic of China (Taiwan) and the People’s Republic of China existed as equals, with neither being subordinate to the other. He said that the Republic of China (Taiwan) had experienced three changes of governing party—in 2000, 2008, and 2016—that had consolidated the democratic system and helped create a clearer sense of national identity, reflecting the Taiwanese people’s pursuit of and desire for freedom and democracy.
     
    Minister Lin went on to explain that, in response to dramatic changes in the international geopolitical landscape and the threat of authoritarian expansion, President Lai Ching-te had issued 17 national security measures. He said that China’s vaulting ambition had alerted the international community to the fact that Taiwan was not subordinate to the PRC. He observed that this had upended China’s cross-strait framework, making the issue of democratic Taiwan and authoritarian China not merely a regional matter, but a question the countries of the world must address together.
     
    Minister Lin emphasized that the more secure Taiwan was, the more secure the world would be, and that the stronger Taiwan grew, the more secure the world’s democracies would be. He reiterated that Taiwan was a Taiwan of the world and said that the Republic of China (Taiwan), as a democratic nation and a force for good in the world, had demonstrated that it was part of the global village through the continued application of democratic processes and through its international participation.
     
    Concluding his remarks, Minister Lin said that Taiwan would continue to be at the forefront of the global battle against authoritarian expansionism, adding that Taiwan would work with like-minded countries to defend the values of freedom and democracy and ensure regional peace, security, and prosperity. (E)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Supermarket treatments for depression don’t require a prescription. But do they work?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jon Wardle, Professor of Public Health, Southern Cross University

    Australians have long been some of the highest users of herbal and nutritional supplements that claim to boost mood or ease depression. These include omega-3s (found in fish oil), St John’s wort, probiotics and vitamin D.

    In fact, among Australians with depression, these supplements are more popular than prescription medicines.

    But do they actually work? And how do they compare to other treatments? A new review has assessed the evidence from 209 studies – here’s what it found.

    Do these supplements work?

    The new study aimed to assess the international evidence available for common over-the-counter products for depression in adults aged 18–60.

    Despite their widespread popularity and availability, the study found there is surprisingly little research on these therapies, compared with psychological therapies and prescription antidepressants.

    Only a few products had a relatively large body of evidence suggesting they were effective at treating symptoms. These were omega-3 supplements, St John’s wort, saffron, probiotics and vitamin D.

    However, most products had only a single trial examining their use.

    The researchers noted there was promising evidence for some herbal and nutritional supplements, where multiple studies did exist. These included folic acid, zinc, Rhodiola, lavender and lemon balm. But there is not enough evidence yet to recommend them, so more studies would be needed.

    What does other research say?

    These findings appear to support previous research assessing supplements for depression.

    In 2024, the Australian government’s review of natural therapies also found moderate evidence that several herbal medicines can relieve symptoms in mild to moderate depression. These include curcumin (from turmeric), saffron and St John’s wort.

    It also found moderate evidence St John’s wort was as effective as conventional antidepressants.

    However, the major caveat is that much of the existing evidence relates to mild to moderate depression.

    Mild to moderate depression usually means few symptoms beyond the minimum required for diagnosis (such as loss of pleasure and depressed mood). Major depression involves five or more symptoms along with significant distress and impact on day-to-day function.

    While some products were found to have some effect in major depressive disorders – probiotics, for example – there is little evidence to suggest they’re effective where a large number of symptoms exist.

    Dose and quality varies

    The dose and quality of over-the-counter products can also vary significantly, which can make it difficult to identify appropriate products or assess which ones work.

    In the United Kingdom, official advice for health-care practitioners acknowledges there is evidence St John’s wort can help with less severe forms of depression. But it also advises caution in recommending it, given how much the dose, preparation and quality can vary between different herbal products.

    Man takes a vitamin
    St John’s wort dosage and quality varies between products.
    photoroyalty/Shutterstock

    In Australia, guidelines for psychiatrists treating mood disorders such as depression note that good evidence exists for using omega-3 fatty acids (fish oils). But they highlight that there only seems to be a benefit when the product has 60% or more eicosapentaenoic acid (one of the main types of omega-3).

    Whether folate supplements are effective for depression can depend on their form, which active ingredient is used, and how well the body can absorb it.

    There may be other nuances in other supplements that we need more research to understand.

    Are there any risks or downsides?

    The study also concluded these products present few safety issues, whether used alone or in combination with other treatments. This is the reason most remain available over the counter.

    However, herbal medicines and dietary supplements also contain chemicals that can work like drugs and interact with other medications.

    For example, the way St John’s wort works on neurotransmitters (the body’s chemical messengers) is similar to many prescription antidepressants.

    So taking it alongside antidepressants can lead to serotonin syndrome, a condition which can lead to fever and seizures in extreme instances. In rare cases, you may experience similar side effects to taking antidepressants.

    However, many of these treatments are not only safe but more effective when used together with conventional treatments for depression.

    For instance, some studies suggest omega-3 supplements used in addition to standard antidepressant therapy resulted in the best outcomes. But more research is needed to explore this link.

    How do they stack up against other therapies?

    Pharmaceutical medications, such as antidepressants, and talk therapies remain the gold standard in Australian guidelines for mood disorders. They are the most studied interventions for these disorders, which means we have the most evidence for how well they work.

    However, emerging evidence is developing for other therapies too.

    Lifestyle interventions to improve diet and exercise have been shown to be as effective in addressing symptoms of depression as receiving psychological treatment alone.

    Nutrients are the building blocks of many body processes, and some nutrient deficiencies themselves (such as iron and B12) can cause depressive symptoms. So their potential role of nutritional supplements is perhaps unsurprising.

    However, research – including our own – increasingly demonstrates eating nutrient-rich foods (rather than taking supplements) can be enough to improve symptoms in mood disorders such as depression.

    The Australian government’s review of natural therapies also found the evidence for non-pharmacological treatments, such as yoga, was more certain than for herbal medicines and nutritional supplements in treating depression.

    It’s also important to note that depressive symptoms rarely present alone. They can be secondary to other underlying health conditions (such as hypothyroidism) or present with other conditions.

    Investigating and addressing these potential root causes and improving general health is essential in managing symptoms.

    What are the key takeaways?

    Some herbal and nutritional supplements do appear to have a potentially beneficial effect for less severe forms of depression. But for many of these therapies there is still not enough evidence to offer definitive recommendations.

    While the Therapeutic Goods Administration regulates the safety and quality of supplements, there is still variation in product quality, dose and how well the body can absorb it.

    If you’re thinking of using herbal or nutritional supplements, it’s important to consult a health professional, such as a GP, naturopath or even a psychologist.

    If this article has raised issues for you, or if you’re concerned about someone you know, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.

    The Conversation

    Jon Wardle is Foundation Director of the National Centre for Naturopathic Medicine and the Maurice Blackmore Chair of Naturopathic Medicine at Southern Cross University, which undertakes training and research in nutritional and herbal therapies. He has received funding from multiple foundations and agencies to conduct research on nutritional and herbal medicines, including the National Health and Medical Research Council and Medical Research Future Fund. He was part of the both the National Health and Medical Research Council Natural Therapies Working Committee and the Department of Health Natural Therapies Review Expert Advisory Panel which supported Professor Kidd in conducting the reviews mentioned in this article. However, this article represents his personal academic opinion and does not represent the opinions of either of these organisations.

    Carrie Thomson-Casey is affiliated with both major psychology professional associations the Australian Psychological Society (APS) and the Australian Association of Psychologists Inc (AAPi). Carrie is also the past convenor and now treasurer of an APS interest group Psychology and Integrative Mental Health.

    Carrie is an author of one of the papers Jon has cited.

    Jessica Bayes has received funding from several organisations to conduct research exploring diet and mental wellbeing, in addition to research investigating nutritional supplements. Jessica has also authored some of the articles referenced here.

    – ref. Supermarket treatments for depression don’t require a prescription. But do they work? – https://theconversation.com/supermarket-treatments-for-depression-dont-require-a-prescription-but-do-they-work-261010

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Tyranny is an ever-present threat to civilisations. Here’s how Classical Greece and China dealt with it

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Shannon Brincat, Senior Lecturer in Politics and International Relations, University of the Sunshine Coast

    We’re just a few months into US president Donald Trump’s second term but his rule has already been repeatedly compared to tyranny.

    This may all feel very new to Americans, and to the rest of us watching on from around the world. But the threat of tyranny is an ancient one.

    We can learn much from how people in ancient Greece and China dealt with this issue.

    Where does tyranny come from?

    The peoples of classical Greece were separated into city-states known as the polis.

    A few of these, such as Athens and Argos, were democratic.

    Others, such as Rhodes or Chios, had had democratic features such as civic participation in public life.

    These city-states routinely faced external enemies but also the threat of tyrannical take-over from within.

    Things came to a head in 510 BCE under the rule of an oppressive tyrant known as Hippias. He was ultimately expelled, leading eventually to the establishment of democracy through reforms made under an Athenian statesmen called Cleisthenes.

    According to Plato, tyranny is the most degenerate political regime and emerges out of democracy’s excesses.

    He argued that as democratic citizens become accustomed to living by pleasure rather than reason or duty to the public good, society becomes fragmented.

    Demagogues – populist leaders who gain power by appealing to base desires and prejudices of the masses – promise the people more liberties. They turn citizens away from virtue and toward tyranny.

    Aristotle, who was Plato’s student, defines tyranny as the corrupted form of monarchy. The tyrant perverts the constitutional order to bring about self-serving rulership – the rule of one. Tyranny, he argued, destroys law and justice, eroding all public trust.

    The approach of Plato and Aristotle to combating tyranny was closely tied to their conception of the polis and the importance of citizenship.

    For the classical Greeks, citizenship was a binding relationship of reciprocal duties and obligations owed to all other citizens. The law, they believed, was king.

    It was these conventions that constrained political power, especially the arbitrary rule of one.

    Civic education by participation in daily democratic life promoted virtue, they believed. All citizens and the ruler were subservient to the law – a bond that tyranny destroyed.

    Aristotle said a strong middle class that could best prevent tyranny because they indicated a less unequal, and therefore more stable, society.

    Plato’s view was more inward looking. He saw tyranny as a political manifestation of a disordered “enslaved soul” governed by appetites rather than reason. For him, philosophical guidance back to harmony was required for the tyrant and for the people.

    Only through wisdom, he argued, could the people recognise and reject demagogues and populists.

    Protecting democracy from tyranny

    Some city-states learned from their institutional failings when tyranny had taken them over.

    For example, after a coup of aristocrats overtook Athenian democracy in 411 BCE, Athenians began to swear the Oath of Demophantos. This was among the first attempts at a constitutional safeguard of democracy against tyranny.

    It legally and morally obliged citizens to resist any attempt to overthrow democracy by force. The undertaking was a reciprocal duty; as other scholars have argued, each citizen could count on the support of all others to protect the democracy when a tyrant tried again.

    This made it far more likely for people to take action against a would-be-tyrant; they knew every other citizen had sworn an oath to have their back.

    The Greek historians of the time support these views. For example, Herodotus in the 5th century documented the rise of several tyrants across Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey). He blamed the political vacuum created by the decline of aristocratic rule. Here, the personal ambition and luxury of elites laid the path to tyrannical behaviour.

    Another famous historian named Thucydides, writing at the same time, analysed the power and political corruption behind tyranny. He observed how times of crisis exposed vulnerabilities within Athens, leading to factionalism, instability, and the erosion of democracy.

    Tyranny in classical China

    In classical China we see a complementary, yet unique view of tyranny.

    During the Warring States period (475–221 BCE), when the Zhou Dynasty was divided amongst several competing states, preventing tyranny was a central concern.

    These states were mostly hereditary monarchies rather than democracies but they still emphasised accountability to the people.

    Mencius was a Chinese philosopher and disciple of Confucius.
    Mencius was a Chinese philosopher and disciple of Confucius.
    Pictures from History/Getty Images

    Mencius, a 4th-century BCE Chinese philosopher and Confucian scholar, argued the people’s welfare was the foundation of legitimate rule.

    There is, he argued, a responsibility to all under the Mandate of Heaven (天命, tiānmìng). This ancient Chinese doctrine asserted that heaven grants legitimacy to just rulers. If a ruler became despotic or failed to uphold harmony and virtue, the mandate can be withdrawn, justifying rebellion and dynastic change.

    Mencius famously said a ruler who oppresses the people is not a ruler but a “mere man” who could be violently overthrown.

    Xunzi, another Confucian philosopher writing in the late 4th to 3rd Centuries BCE, believed humans were inherently selfish and chaotic.

    To fend off tyranny he emphasised ritual, education, and rule of law. He believed in formal ceremonies and structured practices such as court etiquette, family rites, and daily ethical conduct. These, he believed, helped cultivate virtue, regulate behaviour, and maintain social harmony.

    Mozi, writing mostly in the 5th to early 4th centuries BCE, was a Chinese philosopher who opposed Confucianism and founded Mohism, offered a different view.

    Opposing all hierarchies, he emphasised jiān ài(兼爱) – universal obligation or care to all others – as a core ethical and political principle.

    According to Mozi, tyranny arises when rulers act selfishly – favoring their own families, states, or interests over the common good. He advocated for strong moral conduct and competence of leaders, rather than their lineage, wealth or status.

    Tyranny today

    Viewed together, these traditions suggest preventing tyranny requires more than just moral leadership.

    Rather, it requires a notion of reciprocity – of shared obligations between citizens – and systemic safeguards against the personal ambitions of rulers.

    Ethical governance, civic education, legal frameworks, and shared responsibilities are essential.

    The Conversation

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

    – ref. Tyranny is an ever-present threat to civilisations. Here’s how Classical Greece and China dealt with it – https://theconversation.com/tyranny-is-an-ever-present-threat-to-civilisations-heres-how-classical-greece-and-china-dealt-with-it-259680

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New UK eVisas for Pakistani students and workers

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    World news story

    New UK eVisas for Pakistani students and workers

    Most main applicants travelling to the UK on study or work-related visas will no longer need a physical sticker visa in passports from today (15 July).

    The UK Government is replacing physical immigration documents for most student and worker visas with a digital proof of immigration status, an eVisa. An eVisa is an online record of a person’s immigration permission in the UK, and any conditions which apply, which can be viewed by creating and accessing an online UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account.

    eVisas are part of an enhanced border and immigration system that will not only make the visa process easier, but is more secure, digital and streamlined. eVisas are tried and tested, with millions of people already using them on select immigration routes.

    British High Commissioner, Jane Marriott CMG OBE, said:

    These changes to the UK visa system will make it much simpler for students and workers to prove their identity and visa status. It also means applicants can hold onto their passports, saving them time.

    Updating from a physical document to an eVisa does not affect anyone’s immigration status or the conditions of their permission to enter or stay in the UK.

    E-visas are being rolled out for the main applicants for:

    • Students, including short term study for 11 months   

    • Global Business Mobility routes (specifically, Senior or Specialist Worker, Graduate Trainee, UK Expansion Worker, Service Supplier, Secondment Worker)   

    • Global Talent    

    • International Sportsperson    

    • Skilled Worker (including Health and Care)   

    • Temporary Work routes (specifically, Charity Worker, Creative Worker, Government Authorised Exchange, International Agreement, and Religious work routes)    

    • Youth Mobility Scheme   

    Holders can link their travel document (such as passport) to their UKVI account to facilitate straightforward international travel. People who have created a UKVI account will be able to use the view and prove service to prove their status securely with third parties, such as employers or landlords (in England).

    Applicants applying as a dependant, or as a main applicant for visas other than study or work, e.g. general visitor visas, will still need a physical sticker visa. Anyone with existing, in date, physical visa stickers do not need to take any action.

    This will eventually be rolled out to all visa routes meaning a more secure and streamlined process for all UK visa customers.

    For updates on the British High Commission, please follow our social media channels:

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –