Category: housing

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK 🔮 PMQs LIVE: Prime Minister’s Questions – 21 May 2025

    Source: United Kingdom UK Parliament (video statements)

    Watch PMQs with British Sign Language (BSL) – https://youtube.com/live/tTf8vqNJCjY

    Prime Minister’s Question Time, also referred to as PMQs, takes place every Wednesday the House of Commons sits. It gives MPs the chance to put questions to the Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer MP, or a nominated minister.

    In most cases, the session starts with a routine ‘open question’ from an MP about the Prime Minister’s engagements. MPs can then ask supplementary questions on any subject, often one of current political significance.

    The Leader of the Opposition, Kemi Badenoch MP, asks six questions and the leader of the second largest opposition party asks two. If another minister takes the place of the Prime Minister, opposition parties will usually nominate a shadow minister to ask the questions.

    Want to find out more about what’s happening in the House of Commons this week? Follow the House of Commons on:

    X: https://www.x.com/HouseofCommons
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ukhouseofcommons
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ukhouseofcommons

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

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK 🔮 LIVE: Prime Minister’s Questions with British Sign Language (BSL) – 21 May 2025

    Source: United Kingdom UK Parliament (video statements)

    Prime Minister’s Question Time, also referred to as PMQs, takes place every Wednesday the House of Commons sits. It gives MPs the chance to put questions to the Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer MP, or a nominated minister.

    In most cases, the session starts with a routine ‘open question’ from an MP about the Prime Minister’s engagements. MPs can then ask supplementary questions on any subject, often one of current political significance.

    The Leader of the Opposition, Kemi Badenoch MP, asks six questions and the leader of the second largest opposition party asks two. If another minister takes the place of the Prime Minister, opposition parties will usually nominate a shadow minister to ask the questions.

    Want to find out more about what’s happening in the House of Commons this week? Follow the House of Commons on:

    X: https://www.x.com/HouseofCommons
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ukhouseofcommons
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ukhouseofcommons

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tTf8vqNJCjY

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Residents urged to keep batteries out of household bins

    Source: City of Sunderland

    Residents across Sunderland are being urged to act responsibly and never place batteries or battery-operated devices in their household waste or recycling bins, following a recent fire suspected to have been caused by a damaged battery.

    At the end of April, a blaze broke out at Campground Waste Transfer Station in Wrekenton (a facility operated by the South Tyne and Wear Waste Management Partnership), believed to have been started by a battery discarded incorrectly. The fire smouldered before igniting but was fortunately spotted early and extinguished before it spread. However, this incident highlights the very real danger these items can pose.

    Batteries and electrical items containing batteries pose a significant fire risk when placed in general waste or mixed recycling. When damaged, crushed or punctured, as can easily happen during collection or processing, batteries can ignite fires that spread rapidly, putting lives, vehicles, and infrastructure at risk.

    It’s not just loose batteries that are a danger. Many small domestic appliances and everyday electronics have batteries that are difficult to remove, such as:

    • Electronic cigarettes and vaping devices
    • Mobile phones
    • Laptops and tablets
    • Power tools
    • Electronic toys and solar powered items such as garden lights and decorations

    Councillor Maria Hall, Chair of the South Tyne and Wear Waste Management Partnership, said:

    “Batteries can ignite at any stage of the waste process, including on our refuse vehicles, or at waste or recycling facilities. Once alight, they burn incredibly fiercely and are difficult and dangerous to extinguish. Fires put lives at risk, including those of our hard-working waste collection teams, and can cause devastating damage to vital infrastructure.

    The solution is simple: never put batteries or battery-powered items in your household bins. Recycle them responsibly at designated points in places that sell new batteries, including supermarkets, DIY stores, local retailers, or your local Household Waste Recycling Centre (HWRC).

    It doesn’t matter whether it’s a single-use AA battery or a sealed lithium-ion battery in a vape – all can cause fires.”

    What you can do

    For a full list of local drop-off sites, visit www.sunderland.gov.uk/battery-recycling

    Why it matters

    • Over half of all batteries still end up in the bin – increasing fire risk
    • Batteries are hazardous and contain toxic substances that harm the environment if they leak
    • Batteries also contain valuable materials that can be recovered and reused when recycled correctly

    Let’s protect our people, our facilities, and our planet – one battery at a time.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Free and low-cost things to do over May half term

    Source: City of Leeds

    From gnomes galore at Abbey House Museum to Woolfest at Leeds Industrial Museum – check out our highlighted free and low-cost things to do in Leeds with your family over the May half term break.

    Gnomes Galore at Abbey House Museum
    Help! The museum’s cheeky gnomes have escaped and are hiding all over the Victorian Streets, grab a trail sheet and see who you can find! Be sure to come and join the mischief and also take part in craft activities inspired by our cheeky friends.
    Saturday 24 May to Sunday 1 June, cost: included in admission
    Find out more: Gnomes Galore at Abbey House Museum

    Kirkstall Abbey Scarecrow Festival
    Explore the historic ruins of Kirkstall Abbey whilst looking for fun scarecrows during the Scarecrow Festival! You might find a Hungry Caterpillar in the Kitchen, a ladybird in the library or a horse in the hospital! Wander through the park and woodlands and take a leisurely stroll beside the River Aire whilst learning about the historic Abbey.
    Saturday 24 May to Sunday 1 June, cost: included in admission
    Find out more: Kirkstall Abbey Scarecrow Festival

    Love Your Zoo Week at Lotherton
    Take part in Love Your Zoo Week at Lotherton and celebrate all the animals in Wildlife World. Follow the ‘amazing animals’ trail, hop on board their famous tractor trailer for a deer park tour, get crafty in the House and find out more about the wildlife in the zoo.
    Saturday 24 May to Sunday 1 June, cost: included in admission (crafts and tractor tour are additional costs)
    Find out more: Love Your Zoo Week at Lotherton

    Find Your Happy at Temple Newsam House
    In the big house you will find crafts and activities all inspired by the theme of happiness. Families will be able to enjoy joyful crafts, dreamy dressing up, not so tricky trails and more! There is also a brand new exhibition by Leeds Fine Artists which is on display in different rooms throughout the house. See if you can spot the newest paintings and objects on display and how the artists have been inspired by the country house.
    Saturday 24 May to Sunday 1 June, cost: included in admission
    Find out more: Find Your Happy at Temple Newsam House

    Love Your Zoo Week at Tropical World
    Celebrate Love Your Zoo Week by visiting Tropical World and meeting their new sulcata tortoises. Take part in Tank’s Tortoise Trail, experience keeper talks, take part in craft activities, and treat yourself to a tasty snack in the cafĂ©.
    Saturday 24 May to Sunday 1 June, cost: included in admission
    Find out more: Love Your Zoo Week at Tropical World

    Half term at Kirkgate Market
    Visit Kirkgate Market over half term to experience pop-up events and free family activities including giant games, colouring, Lego crafts, and Duplo building.
    Saturday 24 May to Friday 30 May, cost: free
    Find out more: Half term at Kirkgate Market

    Half term at the Royal Armouries Museum
    Over half term, the Royal Armouries Museum will be shining a light on the Second World War – with live presentations, battle stories and weapon talks. And experience their new display, Objects in Focus, which marks the 80th anniversaries of Victory in Europe (VE) Day and Victory in Japan (VJ) Day.
    Saturday 24 May to Sunday 1 June, 10am to 5pm, cost: free
    Find out more: Half term at the Royal Armouries

    Miffy Crafts at Leeds City Museum
    Delve into the world of Miffy books and create your own bold, colourful Miffy artwork. Come to the museum for Miffy-themed arts and crafts during the half term. There’ll also be finger puppets and Miffy ears for little bunnies to decorate. Activities are suitable for all ages, designed for families to have a go together.
    Tuesday 27, Wednesday 28, and Thursday 29 May, 10am to 12pm and 1pm to 3pm, cost: free
    Find out more: Miffy Crafts at Leeds City Museum

    These Are My Rocks with Bethan Woollvin at Leeds Libraries
    Do you collect anything? Everyone collects something! Join award-winning author/illustrator Bethan Woollvin at one of our libraries for an exciting workshop based on her brand-new picture book These Are My Rocks, which is all about the joy of collecting things.
    Tuesday 27 May to Friday 30 May (locations and times vary), cost: pay what you decide
    Find out more: These Are My Rocks with Bethan Woollvin

    Turn Back the Clock at Leeds Discovery Centre
    In this family workshop, come and take a closer look at some of the amazing clocks in the discovery centre’s collection and have a go at making your own wall clock to take home.
    Wednesday 28 May, 10am to 12pm and 1pm to 3pm, cost: give what you can – bookings required via the website
    Find out more: Turn Back the Clock at Leeds Discovery Centre

    Woolfest at Leeds Industrial Museum
    Celebrate the wonder of wool with craft stalls, workshops, live demonstrations, a pop-up tea room and loads more – the city’s original festival of wool is back with a bang in 2025! We have it all from packed out crafting markets to expert demonstrations, talks, performances, tea room pop-ups and loads more. Whether you’re a natty knitter or crackers about crochet, it’s a great day out for all ages.
    Saturday 31 May, 10am to 5pm, cost: ÂŁ5 for adults, ÂŁ2.90 for children
    Find out more: Woolfest at Leeds Industrial Museum

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI China: Foreign businesses deepen roots in Chinese market through intl trade fair

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

    Crowds gathered at the Hokkaido booth during the 34th Harbin International Economic and Trade Fair, drawn by live demonstrations of handcrafted rice balls and an array of regional delicacies from the northern Japanese prefecture.

    “This year, 14 Hokkaido-based enterprises are showcasing 36 specialty products, with 12 companies and 34 products making their debut at the fair,” said Takayuki Kano, Vice Governor of Hokkaido, expressing hopes that the event would help Hokkaido businesses secure local distributors and expand their footprint across China.

    Held in Harbin, capital of northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province, this year’s fair, which concluded on Wednesday, attracted over 1,500 enterprises from 38 countries and regions, including the United States, Japan and Switzerland, alongside participants from 23 Chinese provinces, autonomous regions and municipalities.

    During the fair, foreign officials and corporate representatives highlighted Heilongjiang’s growing appeal as an investment destination and pledged to deepen their engagement with the Chinese market.

    Jonathan Pauwels, director of product development and branding for agricultural equipment manufacturer Case IH’s Asia-Pacific division, spoke about his company’s more-than-two-decade journey in the region.

    “We established our first factory in Harbin as early as 1999 and set up an agricultural machinery product development and research center in 2013. Over the past decade, we have continuously invested approximately 1 billion yuan (about 139 million U.S. dollars) in Heilongjiang to promote smart manufacturing. Now, many of our new agricultural machinery products have been introduced to the entire Chinese market,” he said.

    With 40 global production facilities and 49 R&D centers, Case IH plans to expand its investments in Heilongjiang over the next five years by localizing components, developing advanced combine harvesters, and expanding exports from its Harbin base, according to Pauwels.

    Cao Jingheng, senior vice president of Nestle Greater China, attributed the renewed confidence of foreign companies to Heilongjiang’s “revitalization through opening up” strategy. The province’s fertile black soil, premium dairy pastures, and business-friendly policies prompted Nestle to establish its first Chinese mainland factory in Harbin’s Shuangcheng district in 1987. To date, the Swiss conglomerate has invested 3 billion yuan in the province, supporting 33,000 dairy households and creating 10,000 jobs.

    “China is now Nestle’s second-largest global market. We look forward to further strengthening our cooperation with Heilongjiang by introducing Swiss technologies and managerial experience, while bringing more premium local products to international markets,” Cao said.

    The fair also attracted new entrants like Canadian athletic apparel brand Lululemon. Since opening its first store in Heilongjiang in 2022, sales have surged, according to Kang Tai, the company’s general manager of government affairs.

    “We are confident about our development in Heilongjiang and plan to expand our presence and collaborate with the province to promote winter sports development,” Kang said.

    Ren Hongbin, chairman of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade, emphasized China’s enduring appeal to global investors, adding that the fair and the concurrent events serve as a vital platform for international businesses to explore opportunities in Heilongjiang and beyond. 

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: St. Petersburg International Legal Forum: Vladimir Stroev spoke about training personnel for the modern economy

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    On May 20, 2025, the rector of the State University of Management Vladimir Stroyev took part in the session “Strategic planning and management of science: normative dimension”, which was held as part of the XIII St. Petersburg International Legal Forum.

    Also participating in the discussion were First Deputy Chairman of the Supreme Court of the Russian Federation Petr Serkov, State Secretary – Deputy Minister of Agriculture of the Russian Federation Maxim Uvaidov, representatives of scientific and higher educational institutions. The meeting was moderated by Deputy Head of the Presidential Administration for Scientific and Educational Policy Elena Nechaeva.

    The first issue of the meeting was an assessment of the prospects for eliminating barriers to the implementation of research and development results. The rector of the State University of Management noted that for research to be effective, it is important to involve industrial partners in the formation of the scientific agenda and R&D plan in the interests of specific customers, as well as the digitalization of research processes and the introduction of digital platforms for automated reporting.

    Speaking about the practice of conducting research in universities, Vladimir Stroyev spoke about the innovations being implemented at the State University of Management in the scientific sphere and the educational process, which are aimed at solving the problem of achieving technological sovereignty of the country and training personnel for specific industrial partners.

    “Over the past few years, there have been significant changes within the country, including in science and education, as well as in the attitude of business towards interaction with educational organizations. If earlier entrepreneurs preferred to order scientific developments abroad or from private companies, and to select employees directly on the labor market, today they have a different approach. Every week we have one or two meetings with representatives of different levels of business regarding personnel training, scientific and applied developments, which are often associated with the need to repair foreign equipment, develop analogs of parts and other reverse engineering tasks, which our specialists are engaged in,” the rector of the State University of Management noted.

    Vladimir Vitalyevich also emphasized the importance of interaction between universities, which could be facilitated by digital platforms for collaboration. As an example, the rector cited the Design Bureau of the State University of Management, which, thanks to network interaction with design bureaus of other universities, fulfills orders for large corporations.

    Vladimir Stroev named project-based learning, which is successfully implemented at the State University of Management, as another opportunity to unite employers and universities to train the necessary specialists.

    “For three years now, 100% of our students have been participating in project activities, starting from their first year. That is, they are divided into groups and spend 1 day a week developing a project provided by a partner company, under the supervision of a representative of this organization. This is both professional practice and practicing soft skills. Moreover, these projects are posted on a special platform, where they are also purchased. As a result, students not only receive practical skills and a portfolio, but also have a completed project and their first income,” the rector shared.

    In conclusion of his speech, Vladimir Stroyev recalled that the State University of Management was an engineering and economics university until the 1990s and for most of its history trained engineering personnel, something it is returning to today.

    Elena Nechaeva noted that she is ready to come to the State University of Management in the near future “for a more detailed discussion of the practice of university science, because the personnel aspects of the development of science and technology are the foundation of foundations.”

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police urge the public to report any unlawful dirt bike riding on our roads

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Hawke’s Bay Police are asking the public for information to stop dirt bike riders in their tracks, before they cause more serious harm.

    Senior Sergeant Ross Smith says a woman and a young boy have been injured recently in two separate incidents due to “dangerous, and frankly stupid” behaviour by people on dirt bikes.

    Last week on Wednesday an 8-year-old boy suffered a broken bone in his leg after being hit by a dirt bike rider in Flaxmere.

    And on 24 April a woman was hit by a dirt bike outside a café in Hastings, causing moderate injuries, while the two young riders received critical and serious injuries.

    “There continues to be ongoing issues with people of all ages riding dirt bikes illegally on roads, footpaths and parks, mainly in the Flaxmere and Camberley areas,” Senior Sergeant Smith says.

    “Riders are not wearing helmets or robust safety clothing. The motorbikes are often unregistered, not warranted and some are in poor condition and not road worthy.

    “These riders have little regard for other road users, pedestrians or families using the parks and the public are paying the price.

    “We are also urging parents of children who use dirt bikes to make sure they do so in a safe way, otherwise more people will get hurt,” says Senior Sergeant Smith.

    Police are prepared to take enforcement action when necessary.

    We are asking people if they witness any of this kind of behaviour to report it to Police on 111 if it is happening now, or 105.police.govt.nz if it is after the fact.

    If you see dirt bikes being ridden dangerously then please take photos or videos and send it into Hawke’s Bay Police through the 105 website.

    You may have also captured them on other devices such as dash cams or house security cameras. This can be done anonymously through our 105 services.

    Gain as much information as you are safely able to, including the type of activity, any descriptions of the bikes and riders, the areas where this activity occurs and where they may come from, and any photos or video footage.

    If Police are not able to attend these incidents immediately, follow-up action will be taken.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: A residential complex was built on Yerevanskaya Street under the renovation program

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    In Tsaritsyno, the construction of another residential complex under the renovation program has been completed. Its total area is more than 28 thousand square meters. This was reported by the Minister of the Moscow Government, the head of the capital’s Department of Urban Development Policy Vladislav Ovchinsky.

    The residential complex of five sections is located at the address: Yerevanskaya Street, Building 4, Block 2.

    “The new building includes 253 apartments with finished, improved finishing. Their total area exceeds 14 thousand square meters. The residential complex was built with a barrier-free environment in mind. The entrances have wide passages, vestibules and elevator halls are located on the same level, without high steps. In the courtyard, pedestrian paths are designed so that both parents with strollers and citizens with disabilities can move comfortably. In addition, the new building has two apartments for people with disabilities: the width of the corridors and doorways has been increased, and special handrails are provided in the bathrooms,” said Vladislav Ovchinsky.

    For the convenience of residents, elevators have been installed in the entrances, rooms for concierges and storage rooms for strollers and bicycles have been provided. Trees and bushes have been planted near the house, lawns and flower beds have been laid out, lanterns have been installed and video surveillance cameras have been installed. The courtyard has also been equipped with areas for active recreation and sports.

    “Mosgosstroynadzor supervised the construction of the building on Yerevanskaya Street at all stages – the Committee’s inspectors conducted 11 on-site inspections. Based on the results of the final event, a conclusion was issued on the building’s compliance with the approved project,” the Chairman of Mosgosstroynadzor noted.

    Anton Slobodchikov.

    The new building was erected in an area with developed urban and transport infrastructure. Nearby are the Tsaritsyno and Kantemirovskaya metro stations, the Tsaritsyno station of the second Moscow Central Diameter, as well as shops, educational institutions and healthcare facilities.

    Earlier Sergei Sobyanin examined new house under the renovation program in Pokrovskoe-Streshnevo.

    The renovation program was approved in August 2017. It concerns about a million Muscovites and provides for the resettlement of 5,176 houses. Earlier, Sergei Sobyanin ordered to increasethe pace of implementation of the renovation program has doubled.

    Moscow is one of the leaders among regions in terms of construction volumes. High rates of housing construction correspond to the goals and initiatives of the national project “Infrastructure for life”.

    Get the latest news quickly official telegram channel the city of Moscow.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/154125073/

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: US to skip G20 summit in South Africa

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    LOS ANGELES, May 21 (Xinhua) — U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Tuesday that President Donald Trump will not attend the upcoming Group of 20 (G20) leaders’ meeting in South Africa.

    “We decided not to participate in the G20 meetings this year hosted by South Africa, either at the Foreign Ministry level or at the presidential level, and that had a lot to do with some of these issues that they had on their agenda that we don’t think reflect the priorities of this administration,” he told a Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing.

    Relations between South Africa and the United States have deteriorated since the African country’s President Cyril Ramaphosa signed an expropriation law in January. In March, the United States expelled South Africa’s then-ambassador Ebrahim Rasool, further straining tensions.

    Ramaphosa is currently visiting the United States and is scheduled to meet with Trump on trade and bilateral issues. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Security: Third man charged as part of investigation into north London fires

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A third man has been charged as part of an investigation into a series of fires in north London.

    Petro Pochynok 34 (25.07.90) of north London, a Ukrainian national [C] has been charged with conspiracy to commit arson with intent to endanger life, namely:

    • conspiring together with Roman Lavrynovych and Stanislav Carpiuc and others unknown to damage by fire property belonging to another,
    • intending to damage the property,
    • intending to endanger the life or another or being reckless as to whether the life of another would thereby be endangered.

    Pochynok is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, 21 May at 10:00hrs.

    The charge, which was authorised by the Crown Prosecution Service, relates to a period from Thursday, 17 April to Tuesday, 13 May this year, in which three incidents took place – a vehicle fire in NW5 on Thursday, 8 May, a fire at the entrance of a property in N7 on Sunday, 11 May and a fire at a residential address in NW5 in the early hours of Monday, 12 May.

    All have connections with a high-profile public figure, and therefore officers from the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command led the investigation into the fires.

    Pochynok was arrested on Monday, 19 May, in the Chelsea area, SW3, on suspicion of conspiracy to commit arson with intent to endanger life.

    As part of the same investigation, Roman Lavrynovych 21 (06.02.04), of Sydenham, a Ukrainian national [A] was charged with three counts of arson with intent to endanger life.

    He appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on 16 May and was remanded in custody to appear at the Old Bailey on 6 June.

    Stanislav Carpiuc, 26 (15.07.98) of Romford, a Romanian national, [B] has also been charged with conspiracy to commit arson with intent to endanger life.

    He appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, 20 May and was remanded in custody to appear at the Old Bailey on 6 June.

    Anyone with information that could assist the investigation should call police on 101 quoting CAD 441/12 May.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI China: China offers global consumers fresh shopping experiences

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

    Mok Jin Jin, a Malaysian student at Nankai University in north China’s Tianjin Municipality, has observed a shift in his family’s lifestyle since they received a Chinese-made blender.

    His mother now frequently tries new healthy breakfast beverages like soy milk, milkshakes and freshly made juices. She particularly appreciates the one-button self-cleaning function, which saves her time and effort.

    Not long ago, Mok purchased the blender through a Chinese e-commerce platform as a gift for his family. “Chinese-made products excel in performance and design. They not only improve the living quality but also fulfill consumers’ expectations of modern consumption,” Mok said.

    The notion that Chinese products were “cheap and low-quality” was for long a common stereotype. However, in recent years, China has made significant strides in technological innovation and industrial upgrades, resulting in a remarkable improvement in the competitiveness of Chinese products.

    At the same time, China’s increasingly diverse consumer market has provided foreign consumers with a more international, fashionable and multifaceted shopping experience.

    “International brands are ubiquitous in China’s major cities, and global products are easily accessible through online shopping platforms. This has made shopping in China extremely convenient,” Mok said. He was also pleasantly surprised to find several Malaysian food brands available in Chinese supermarkets and on e-commerce platforms. “It’s wonderful to be able to enjoy familiar tastes while abroad,” he said.

    Phan Dinh Thang, a Vietnamese student studying Chinese at Nankai University, echoed this sentiment. “Shopping in China feels like ‘global shopping’ with an incredibly wide range of options,” he said. As more Vietnamese people learn Chinese, they find it easier to purchase quality products on Chinese e-commerce platforms.

    Thanks to China’s robust supply chain system and efficient logistics network, goods shipped from China to Vietnam not only arrive quickly but are also cost-effective and often more affordable than local options in Vietnam. “This has made ‘Chinese shopping’ a new trend in Vietnam and highlights the increasingly close consumer ties between China and Vietnam,” Phan explained.

    With China continuously optimizing its international consumption environment, such as offering visa exemptions for some countries, enhancing departure tax refund policies and expanding international credit card payment channels — making shopping trips to China a new trend in cross-border tourism.

    Maltseva Varvara, a Russian visitor, shared her experience: “The best thing about shopping in China is how fast, convenient and hassle-free it is.” After linking her international credit card to Alipay, Varvara found it easy to pay as she simply needed to scan via her phone by using a quick tap on its screen. “The recent improvements in the departure tax refund policy have made shopping and traveling in China even more convenient and welcoming.”

    Some overseas consumers have formed “shopping groups” and flown long distances to China to purchase popular products. According to data from China’s Ministry of Commerce, the number of foreign visitors to Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, Tianjin and southwest China’s Chongqing in 2024 was nearly double the figure of the previous year. These five cities are home to almost 70 percent of China’s tax refund stores, while their imports of consumer goods accounted for over half of China’s total last year.

    Foreign consumption in China has seen a noticeable increase. The National Immigration Administration reported that, since the implementation of a 240-hour visa-free transit policy, the number of foreign visitors has grown by 40.2 percent year on year, with 71.3 percent of them entering visa-free.

    The recent signing of a visa exemption agreement between China and Malaysia has made travel for Malaysian tourists more convenient. “It’s much easier for my friends and family to visit China now, and they get to experience firsthand the increasingly convenient living environment and vibrant consumer market here,” Mok said.

    China’s Vice Commerce Minister Sheng Qiuping recently stated that China will continue to improve its international consumption environment, increase the supply of high-quality products, and create more diversified consumption scenarios to boost inbound consumption.

    Li Wei, dean of the Honor College of Tianjin Foreign Studies University, said that China is fostering an open, inclusive and diverse consumption environment that appeals to foreign visitors. “This offers more opportunities for global consumers and businesses.”

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-Evening Report: Why do I procrastinate? And can I do anything about it?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Catherine Houlihan, Senior Lecturer in Clinical Psychology, University of the Sunshine Coast

    Dima Berlin/Shutterstock

    Can you only start a boring admin task once your house is clean? Do you leave the trickiest emails to the end of the day?

    Delaying a goal or task – usually to do something less important instead – is known as procrastination and it affects many of us. Most people report procrastinating some of the time, but for others it can be chronic.

    While procrastination is common, it can be frustrating and lead to feelings of shame, guilt and anxiety.

    Here’s why you might be avoiding that task – and five steps to get on top of it.

    Am I procrastinating?

    You might find yourself putting off starting something, abandoning it before it’s finished or leaving it to the very last minute.

    Thoughts such as “I can catch up later” or “I’ll turn it in late” can be telltale signs of procrastination. Maybe you’ve Googled “Why do I procrastinate?” while procrastinating and have come across this article.

    Other times, you might not even be aware you’re doing it. Perhaps you look up and realise you’ve been scrolling online shopping and kitten videos for the past hour, instead of doing your assignment.

    Procrastination is not a character flaw, and it doesn’t mean you’re lazy or even bad at managing time. Framing it this way can make you feel even worse about the behaviour, and stops you learning the real reasons behind it.

    If you want to stop procrastinating, it’s important to understand why you do it in the first place.

    You may find yourself doing another, less urgent task, without even realising you’re procrastinating.
    Daenin/Shutterstock

    Why do I procrastinate?

    Procrastination can be a way of dealing with tricky emotions. Research shows we put off tasks we find boring or frustrating, as well as those we resent or that lack personal meaning.

    We may avoid tasks that create stress or painful emotions, such as completing a tax return where you owe a lot of money, or packing up a parent’s house after their death.

    There a few deeper reasons, too.

    Procrastination can be a sign of perfectionism. This is when an intense fear of failure – of getting something wrong – creates so much pressure to be perfect that it stops us from even getting started.

    People with low self-esteem also tend to procrastinate, whether or not they experience perfectionism. Here, it’s a negative self-view (“I’m not good at most things”) coupled with low confidence (“I probably won’t get it right”) that gets in the way of beginning a task.

    Distraction can be a factor, too. Most of us battle constant interruptions, with pings and alerts designed to redirect our attention. But being very easily distracted can also be a sign you’re avoiding the task.

    For some people, difficulty completing tasks could be a sign of an underlying issue such as attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. If you’re worried procrastination is affecting your day-to-day life, you can speak to your doctor to seek help.

    Distraction can be a factor.
    F8 Studio/Shutterstock

    Is procrastination ever helpful?

    It depends.

    Some people enjoy the pressure of a deadline. Leaving a task to the last minute can be a strategy to improve motivation or get it done in a limited time.

    Procrastination can also be a coping mechanism.

    Delaying unpleasant tasks may make us feel better in the moment. Avoiding the task may mean we don’t have to face the possibility of getting it wrong, or the negative emotions or consequences it involves.

    But this usually only works in the short term, and in the long term it’s more likely to cause problems.

    Procrastination can trigger self-criticism as well as negative emotions such as guilt and shame.

    In the long term it can also lead to mental health problems including anxiety and depression. Procrastinating has even been linked to poor outcomes in education – such as being caught copying in exams – and at work, including lower salaries and higher likelihood of unemployment.

    So what can we do about it?

    5 steps to tackling procrastination

    1. Face it – you’re procrastinating. Being able to identify and name these patterns is the first step to overcoming procrastination.

    2. Explore why. Understanding the underlying causes is key. Are you afraid of getting it wrong? Is your to-do list unrealistic? Or do you just love a tight deadline? If your procrastination results from perfectionism or low self-esteem you may wish to explore evidence-based treatments such as cognitive behavioural therapy, with a therapist or through self-guided activities.

    3. Start prioritising. Take a good look at your to-do list. Are the most urgent or important things at the top? Have you given yourself enough time to complete the tasks? Breaking a task into smaller chunks and taking regular breaks will help prevent you from becoming overwhelmed. If you’re not sure what’s the most important, try talking it through with someone. If you tend to leave the most boring things to the last minute and then never get around to them, set some time aside at the start of each day to get these tasks done.

    4. Avoid distractions. Set your phone to “do not disturb”, hang a sign on the door, tell those around you you’ll be “offline” for a little while. Setting a clear start and end time can help you stick to this rule.

    5. Build in rewards. Life is hard work – be kind to yourself. Whenever you complete a difficult task or cross something off your to-do list, balance this by doing something more enjoyable. Building in rewards can make facing the to-do list a little bit easier.

    Catherine Houlihan 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. Why do I procrastinate? And can I do anything about it? – https://theconversation.com/why-do-i-procrastinate-and-can-i-do-anything-about-it-255770

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-Evening Report: Counts in Bradfield and Calwell become clearer, while Jacqui Lambie faces a possible problem in the Tasmanian Senate

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Beaumont, Election Analyst (Psephologist) at The Conversation; and Honorary Associate, School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne

    Counting in several extremely close seats continues, but some results have become clearer. In Liberal-held Bradfield, Teal candidate Nicolette Boele has taken the lead, while the Calwell distribution of preferences indicates an independent is on track to pass the Liberals and benefit from their preferences against Labor. Meanwhile, Jacqui Lambie may have a problem in the Tasmanian Senate contest.

    Labor has won 93 of the 150 House of Representatives seats, the Coalition 43, all Others 12 and two remain undecided (Bradfield and Calwell). After Tuesday’s split between the Liberals and Nationals, the ABC has the Liberals on 28 seats and the Nationals on 15, with the Liberals to form the official opposition.

    The Australian Electoral Commission has 18 Liberals, nine Nationals and 16 seats won by Queensland’s Liberal National Party. LNP members can caucus with either the Liberals or Nationals, so they are splitting 10–6 to the Liberals.

    I will continue to use Coalition in my coverage of this election, as the Liberal and National parties contested the election as the Coalition. It would be difficult to split the LNP vote into its Liberal and National components.

    In the close seats, Boele leads the Liberals by 43 votes in Bradfield. She had trailed by 43 votes before the final votes were counted on Monday. The Poll Bludger said the last 181 formal postals counted favoured Boele by 125–56, giving her 69% of that batch.

    Of the just over 14,000 total formal postal votes counted in Bradfield, the Liberals have won by 56.4–43.6. But late postals are often much better for the left than early ones.

    What’s happening now in Bradfield is a full distribution of preferences, in which candidates are excluded from the bottom up on primary votes. If the margin after this distribution is complete is under 100 votes, there will be an automatic recount.

    In Goldstein, Teal incumbent Zoe Daniel’s late surge has fallen short, as she trails Liberal Tim Wilson by 135 votes with everything counted, in from a 292-vote deficit last Thursday.

    As with Bradfield, there will now be a full distribution of preferences in Goldstein. If the margin after this distribution is under 100 votes, there will be a recount. Daniel could also request a recount, but even if there is a recount, Wilson is very likely to win.

    In Labor-held Calwell, which has 13 candidates, final primary votes were 30.5% Labor, 15.7% Liberals, 11.9% for independent Carly Moore, 10.7% for independent Joseph Youhana, 8.3% for the Greens and 6.9% for independent Samim Moslih.

    The danger for Labor is that either Moore or Youhana overtake the Liberals on the distribution of preferences, then beat Labor at the final count on Liberal preferences. The AEC has a page that is updated with each exclusion in the preference distribution.

    After six exclusions, the totals are 32.8% Labor, 17.1% Liberals, 14.7% Moore, 12.1% Youhana, 9.9% Greens, 7.9% Moslih and 5.6% One Nation (to be excluded next). Analyst Kevin Bonham says Moore needs 7.5% more than the Liberals to make the final two, and 67% of overall preferences to beat Labor. For Youhana, these figures are 13.4% and 69%.

    Lambie may have a problem in the Tasmanian Senate contest

    I have previously covered the Senate count. There have only been minor changes to the primary votes since that May 9 article. The Poll Bludger has modelled the state Senate contests using 2022 election preference flows.

    According to this model, Labor will win the last seat in New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia and Western Australia, but only narrowly in WA. In Tasmania, Jacqui Lambie and the Liberals would edge out Labor. As I wrote previously, this result would give Labor 30 of the 76 total senators, the Coalition 27, the Greens 11, One Nation two and others six.

    For a state a quota is one-seventh of the vote or 14.3%. In Tasmania Labor has 2.48 quotas, the Liberals 1.65, the Greens 1.13, Jacqui Lambie 0.51, One Nation 0.35 and Legalise Cannabis 0.24. One Nation will be the last exclusion, and whichever of Labor, the Liberals or Lambie is last after One Nation’s preferences are distributed loses.

    There’s evidence that One Nation’s preferences have become better for the Coalition at this election than in 2022. In Capricornia, which had a One Nation primary vote of 15.5%, the LNP share of overall preferences increased nine points since 2022 to 62%.

    Lambie wants the salmon farming industry to stop farming in Macquarie Harbour and says they should move offshore. This stance could cost her preferences from One Nation and other right-aligned parties.

    I expect One Nation and other right-wing preferences in Tasmania to go strongly enough to the Liberals to give the Liberals one of the last two undecided seats, with the final seat between Labor and Lambie.

    Labor is pro-salmon farming, so perhaps Lambie could benefit from Greens and Animal Justice preferences (the Greens have a small surplus over one quota and Animal Justice has 0.09 quotas).

    Tasmanian poll and upper house elections

    A Tasmanian state EMRS poll, conducted May 13–17 from a sample of 1,000, gave Labor 31% of the vote (up one since February), the Liberals 29% (down five), the Greens 14% (up one), the Jacqui Lambie Network 6% (down two), independents 17% (up five) and others 4% (up one).

    Tasmania uses a proportional system for its lower house elections, so a two-party estimate is not applicable. Incumbent Liberal Premier Jeremy Rockliff’s net favourability was down four points to +6, while Labor leader Dean Winter’s was down one to +5. Rockliff led Winter by 44–32 as preferred premier (44–34 previously).

    Every May two or three of Tasmania’s 15 upper house seats are up for election for six-year terms. The Poll Bludger said Tuesday that current upper house standings are four Liberals, three Labor, one Green and seven independents. On Saturday there will be elections in Liberal-held Montgomery, Labor-held Pembroke and independent-held Nelson.

    European elections wrap

    I covered Sunday’s European elections in Romania, Portugal and Poland for The Poll Bludger. In Romania the centrist defeated the far-right candidate by 53.6–46.4, but the left had a dismal result in Portugal. I also covered recounts in the April 28 Canadian election and polls ahead of the June 3 South Korean presidential election.

    Adrian Beaumont 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. Counts in Bradfield and Calwell become clearer, while Jacqui Lambie faces a possible problem in the Tasmanian Senate – https://theconversation.com/counts-in-bradfield-and-calwell-become-clearer-while-jacqui-lambie-faces-a-possible-problem-in-the-tasmanian-senate-257122

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Concerts, trainings and performances: how the large-scale project “Summer in Moscow” will take place

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    A large-scale urban project will begin on June 1 “Summer in Moscow”, which will last three months. It will once again unite all the bright charity, cultural and sports events of the next season, which will take place in all districts of the capital. Most of them will be held outdoors.

    From tastings to dancing and plein air

    The festival “Gardens and Flowers” runs until September 7. City sites will be transformed into blooming gardens, and rare plants will be seen on the capital’s streets. Muscovites and tourists will be immersed in the atmosphere of summer, will be able to take bright photo sessions and walk along picturesque routes.

    One of the main gastronomic events of the year will be the festival “Moscow is on the wave. Fish week”, which will take place from May 30 to June 8. There will be fish corners on Shkolnaya Street, and open-air shopping chalets will offer various types of fresh, dried and chilled fish and seafood. Chefs will prepare unusual and classic dishes especially for guests at the festival venues.

    As part of the historical festival “Times and Epochs” From June 11 to 15, visitors will see historical periods from Antiquity to the Great Patriotic War. Children and adults will learn to hold swords in their hands or sit at a loom, and professional reenactors will help them with this.

    The Tastes of Russia festival will take place from July 4 to 13. On the streets of the capital, you can try the cuisine of the peoples of Russia and get acquainted with dishes that have become the calling card of different cities – from Kaliningrad to Vladivostok. Tastings and culinary experiments will give you new recipes and help you choose combinations of products for your home table.

    The Kolomenskoye Museum-Reserve will host vintage market — an exhibition and sale of items from the Soviet and pre-revolutionary eras. Guests will enjoy a varied program with the participation of collectors and historians. Muscovites and tourists will be able to get acquainted with the photography craft of the film camera era, hear the sound of gramophone records from the 1920s, dance a square dance and polka to the sounds of a gramophone, remember Viktor Tsoi and the rock era of the 1980s, learn the history of the Olympic bear and purchase figurines of the mascot of the 1980 Olympics, as well as admire antique items and add badges, postcards, dishes and other things with history to their collections.

    From June 1 to September 7, there will be a summer clubThis is a sports and creative art space that will house beauty trucks, fashion pop-ups, greenhouses, a lecture hall, a climbing wall and many play areas.

    On the same dates, a festival will be held on Chistoprudny Boulevard “Street. Dancing” — a bright event for experienced dancers and those who want to learn breakdance, hip-hop, funk, shuffle and Latin. Within its framework, professional dancers will conduct master classes, organize flash mobs and battles.

    On the same days, a plein air painting will take place on Strastnoy Boulevard “Street. Art”. Art master classes, exhibitions of art objects, painting lessons in an art studio and performances by artists are organized here. Everyone is invited to participate. In addition, the participants of the competition “Moscow life in the summer” will paint unusual art objects: arches, balls and floor lamps – applications are being accepted until the end of May.

    Sergei Sobyanin: Large-scale project “Summer in Moscow” will begin on June 1

    Festival “Moscow Estates” will allow Muscovites and guests of the capital to immerse themselves in past eras in an original interactive format. The previous summer season was a record-breaking one: the event took place on the territory of 40 estates, which were visited by more than 700 thousand people. The festival was also held in winter.

    The capital will also host the Ice Moscow Tea festival, which will bring together more than 500 gastronomic establishments. Throughout the summer, they will offer visitors ice Moscow tea. The drink is prepared according to original recipes. As part of the project “Moscow Tea Party” Restaurants, cafes and hotels will continue to serve special tea sets in a signature service and with signature treats. Tea “Moscow” can be found in popular retail chains, souvenir shops and other places in the capital.

    For participants Russpass gamesusing augmented reality technologies, will offer 100 new sites where you need to look for cartoons as part of the Summer in Moscow project. For each meeting with them, virtual points are given in the form of experience. Using them, you can buy tickets to museums and other places in the capital with a discount of up to 99 percent as part of the Russpass bonus program. The game is available in the Russpass mobile application.

    An augmented reality game has been launched for guests of the Winter in Moscow venues

    Circus, theater and patriotic quests

    From June 1 to August 31, the capital will host an international open festival “Teatralny Boulevard – 2025”. Moscow will be transformed into a single large theater stage, where Muscovites and guests of the capital will be able to immerse themselves in the world of theater, try themselves in the role of an actor, decorator and director, as well as take part in a production or visit a creative workshop, learn more about the history of the theater and take a photo with their favorite artist. And of course, guests will see the best productions of Russia and foreign participants.

    Over the course of three months, more than 600 productions will be presented at 14 venues in the capital, including the amphitheater on Pokrovsky Boulevard and the amphitheater in the Polytech Museum Park. More than three thousand artists from all over the world will take part in them.

    June 1st Museum-Reserve “Kolomenskoye” a large-scale celebration of International Children’s Day will take place. Previously, it was held for many years on Tsvetnoy Boulevard, but this year the beloved event will take place at a new site that will be able to accommodate even more guests.

    Every year, the main theme of the festival is a dedication to beloved children’s poets, artists, writers, legendary films and cartoon characters. In previous years, festivals were dedicated to the legacy of Sergei Mikhalkov, Nikolai Nosov and Korney Chukovsky. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the film “The Adventures of Buratino”, which millions of children in our country have watched and continue to watch. Therefore, the festival will be held in honor of the cult character of Alexei Tolstoy.

    World Festival of Circus Arts “Idol 2025”will be held in Moscow for the ninth time. Its venue will be the arena of the Great Moscow Circus on Vernadsky Avenue, the largest circus in Europe. Guests will be able to attend performances for a whole month. The main events are scheduled from July 17 to 20, and then, until August 17, viewers will be able to enjoy the gala show of the winners.

    Since 2013, the festival has established itself as one of the most significant events in the world of circus arts. It has brought together more than 1,700 artists from 50 countries, including participants and spectators from China, Vietnam, the Philippines, Italy, Spain, Germany, Poland, Austria, the USA, Mongolia, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Mexico, Chile, Brazil, Argentina, Cuba and many other countries. The main awards – “Golden Idol”, “Silver Idol” and “Bronze Idol” are awarded by a professional jury for the most spectacular, unusual, flawlessly performed number. The prizes “Golden Manege”, “Silver Manege” and “Bronze Manege” are presented by representatives of the media. The audience sympathy prizes “Golden Audience Hall”, “Silver Audience Hall” and “Bronze Audience Hall” are awarded based on the results of audience voting.

    The Summer in Moscow project will also feature a tent circus. The structures will be located in several picturesque corners of the city. Guests will be able to immerse themselves in an atmosphere of real magic and fun. Some of the best Russian artists will present their productions and numbers. Spectators will see a show with aerial gymnasts on canvases, acrobats on a swing trapeze, clown duets, equilibrists, and jugglers. There will also be numbers with animals.

    Victory Park will be transformed into an open-air museum. In the year of the 80th anniversary of Victory, a large-scale patriotic project has been prepared for visitors. They will be offered walking and bus tours with professional guides, as well as tours in retro cars. In total, four walking routes run through the park, on which 25 monuments of Poklonnaya Gora are located.

    For young visitors, interactive quests along tangled military roads and secret partisan paths will be organized. All comers will be able to receive a stylized Red Army book, in which they can collect star stamps for completing tasks. The most active participants will receive memorable souvenirs and prizes.

    On the territory of Victory Park you can play skittles, chess and laser tag, as well as assemble a soldier’s kit bag, write a letter to the front and much more.

    Moscow Children’s Arts Festival “Sky”will be held for the third time in the capital from May 31 to June 1 in the Muzeon Arts Park. It will unite various types of art (theater, circus, music, dance), as well as science, literature and architecture. Guests will enjoy premieres, children’s operas and tours of leading regional theaters, an architectural workshop, master classes of musicians and choreographers, literary and scientific programs. Theaters and creative groups from Moscow, St. Petersburg, Nizhny Novgorod, Perm, Voronezh, Krasnoyarsk, Tobolsk, Almetyevsk and Kaliningrad will present their performances and numbers. About 90 different productions will be held at 12 venues. Guests will be able to see them from 11:00 to 20:00, admission to all events is free. Last year, the festival was visited by more than 180 thousand people.

    In early July, the Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve will celebrate Day of Family, Love and Fidelity. This summer, the festival will be held in a multi-genre festival format for the 11th time. Last year, it was visited by 57 thousand people, for whom more than 250 artists from famous Moscow theaters and groups performed. The venue hosted lectures, over 200 master classes and other events.

    An extensive educational program has been prepared for guests of Zaryadye Park. It will begin on International Children’s Day, June 1. Each participant will be able to try themselves in the role of a physicist, chemist, biologist or engineer. Guests will also be treated to a large quest created jointly with scientists from the Lomonosov Moscow State University.

    On June 21 and 22, the Zaryadye Park will host the Theatre Weekend festival. This year, the program is dedicated to the 165th anniversary of Anton Chekhov’s birth and the 80th anniversary of the Victory. Spectators will see performances by leading Moscow theaters: the A.P. Chekhov Moscow Art Theater, the Russian Academic Youth Theater, the Moscow Sovremennik Theater, the Central Academic Theater of the Russian Army, the Praktika Theater, and others. The festival’s motto this year will be “Make way for the young!” Therefore, groups from the Moscow Art Theater School, the Moscow State Institute of Culture, the Russian Institute of Theater Arts – GITIS, as well as special guests – actors from the Donetsk Republican Academic Youth Theater will perform on stage.

    From classical music to photo exhibitions

    On June 28 and 29, the Zaryadye Park will host the New Classics festival. This year, the program is dedicated to the 125th anniversary of the birth of the avant-garde pianist and composer Alexander Mosolov. Spectators will hear his composition “Factory. Music of Machines” for the first time. Part of the work was lost, and composer Nikolai Popov and director Yuri Kvyatkovsky will supplement it, creating a large festival form. “Moscow. Music of Machines” will connect two musical eras – the avant-garde Moscow of the early 20th century and today’s Moscow. The main theme of the festival will be a dialogue between man and technology, and Zaryadye Park will once again become a space where modern classics meet the future, and traditions intertwine with innovations.

    From June 1 to September 7, film screenings will be held in the atmospheric space of the park under a glass crust as part of the “Cinema Summer in Zaryadye” festival. Viewers will see masterpieces of Russian cinema created by Vladimir Menshov, Tatyana Lioznova, Karen Shakhnazarov, Grigory Alexandrov, Mikhail Kalatozov, Alla Surikova and others. The films of these directors have already become classics. They are still watched with interest by viewers of different ages.

    Guests will be treated to 30 films, ranging from romantic comedies set against the backdrop of summer landscapes to poignant war dramas, exciting space adventures and profound social studies.

    As part of the Summer in Moscow project, two photo exhibitions will be held on Tsvetnoy Boulevard. They are dedicated to the 90th anniversary of the birth of People’s Artist of the USSR Yuri Solomin and the 110th anniversary of the birth of People’s Artist of the USSR Vladimir Zeldin.

    The exhibition in memory of Yuri Solomin will be prepared by the Moscow Directorate of Mass Events under the supervision of the State Academic Maly Theatre and his granddaughter Alexandra Solomina.

    The exhibition dedicated to Vladimir Zeldin will be organized by the Moscow Directorate of Mass Events together with the Central Academic Theater of the Russian Army. Muscovites and guests of the city will be able to get acquainted with the creative legacy of the legendary actors and see photographs from their family archives.

    Events in honor of the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Great Patriotic War

    On June 21 and 22, Moscow will host two significant events dedicated to preserving the memory of the Great Patriotic War: “Memory Line” on the Krymskaya Embankment of the Muzeon Arts Park and “Memory Watch. Eternal Flame” in the Alexander Garden. Every year, Muscovites and guests of the capital come to support them with their entire families.

    For 11 years, on June 21, the day before the start of the Great Patriotic War, the Crimean embankment of the Muzeon Art Park is illuminated by the light of 1,418 candles. Each candle is a symbol of one of the days of the war. The burning “memory line” runs from June 22, 1941 to May 9, 1945.

    The first candle in the campaign is symbolically lit from a piece of the Eternal Flame on Poklonnaya Hill. Anyone can join the event and light a candle, thereby reminding themselves and their loved ones of the importance of preserving the memory of the terrible years of the war. Every year, the line lights up in a matter of hours and continues to burn throughout June 22.

    During the event “Memory Watch. Eternal Flame” all those wishing to can remember the events of June 1941 and honor the memory of those who died for their Motherland by laying flowers at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Every year young men and women from youth associations, public organizations and patriotic clubs, as well as Muscovites and guests of the capital, join in. At 04:00 a documentary recording of Yuri Levitan’s message about the beginning of the Great Patriotic War of 1941-1945 will be played. After that, there will be a minute of silence and the laying of flowers.

    On April 26, the Victory Park project began on the territory of the Victory Park. The Main Patriotic Park, implemented by the Victory Museum with the support of the Moscow Government. Until October, on weekends, visitors will be able to take the quest “Forward to Victory!” for free, which is held at more than 80 interactive sites, and immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the 1940s.

    From carnival processions to jazz concerts

    From August 28 to 31, the Gorky Festival will be held in Gorky Park. The theme of this year’s event is “Gorky Chekhov”. The theatrical program will be held at the Moscow Youth Theater, the main events, as always, will be presented in Gorky Park and Neskuchny Garden.

    Guests can expect theatrical performances, exhibitions and installations, a theatrical laboratory, a music program and a circus show. Last year, the festival covered 18 venues, which were visited by more than 330 thousand spectators.

    In June, the capital will host the IV Moscow Jazz Festival, one of the largest jazz festivals in the world and the largest jazz festival in Russia. On June 9 and 15, the opening and closing ceremonies will be held in the P.I. Tchaikovsky Concert Hall. From June 10 to 14, festival events will be held in the Hermitage Garden, Zaryadye Park, Muzeon Arts Park, VDNKh, and the Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve. Guests will enjoy over 400 hours of live music performed by over 1,000 musicians.

    The III Moscow Summer Music Festival “Zaryadye” will be held from June 2 to July 6. World-class stars and invited artists will present concerts, special and children’s projects on the stage of the Zaryadye Hall. The closing of the festival will take place in the open air in the park’s amphitheater.

    Sports and entertainment in parks

    With the arrival of the long-awaited summer, more than 55 million guests are expected in over 50 capital parks, for whom a multi-format festival program has been prepared.

    Muscovites and tourists can expect large-scale events, including the park festival “Gardens and Vegetable Gardens”, City Day and many others.

    The parks will host over 10,000 local events. Sports enthusiasts will be able to attend daily morning exercises, outdoor training, and much more. Participation in the classes will help improve health, improve physical fitness, and develop teamwork skills.

    The cultural program includes parties in summer cinemas, immersive performances and dances. Professional artists and creative groups will present their numbers and theatrical performances. Every weekend, park visitors will be treated to music, dance flash mobs and open-air karaoke, and the Park Symphony festival will combine musical rhythms of different genres.

    Residents and guests of the capital will be able to attend gastronomic events: open master classes by famous chefs and lectures on culinary trends. Special places will be equipped for picnics.

    Summer Program for Youth: Development and Creative Growth

    Young Muscovites will enjoy an extensive entertainment and educational program. From June 9 to July 19, the Moskino Cinema Park will host the first creative camp, “Youth of Moscow.” Participants will be able to demonstrate their skills in choreography, vocals, humor, and other creative areas. The shifts will be dedicated to different areas of art: KVN, vocals and music, cinema, producing, original genre, and event organization. The “KVN School” shift is aimed at developing skills in humor and teamwork, while the “Original Genre School” will help aspiring circus performers, cheerleaders, gymnasts, and acrobats improve their skills in the performing arts, and learn how to work with props in interactive productions. As part of the “Dance School,” children will develop their abilities and try themselves in various choreography styles, learn to express emotions in dance, and create their own unique productions. In the “School of Vocals and Music” young Muscovites will be able to improve their vocals, work on their voices with professionals and unite into youth musical groups. The shift “School of Cinema, Producers and Event Organizers” will be aimed at developing organizational skills, producing and acting skills.

    The final race will be held in the format of the Art Quarter festival, where an open large-scale gala concert will take place, uniting all directions. It will be prepared by young people from different shifts of the camp.

    From June 28 to August 4, the patriotic camp “Youth of Moscow. Capital. Summer” will operate for the fourth time. The site will be the territory of the recreation center “Red Carnation”. Participants will have six thematic shifts.

    The “Achieve” shift will bring together athletes, “Manage” — representatives of student government, “Improve” — young professionals, and the “Help” shift will bring together Moscow volunteers. Young Muscovites will be able not only to develop their skills in various fields, but also to find friends, realize their creative potential, and gain new emotional experience. Songs with a guitar and meetings around a large fire will become a tradition of the camp. Meetings and master classes with participants of a special military operation are planned. All shifts will also teach how to provide first aid, resist fire, and ensure safety for yourself and your loved ones in emergency situations.

    City residents aged 18 to 35 can apply for participation. Registration is open on the portal “Youth of Moscow”.

    In honor of Youth Day, the capital will host a large number of events — from master classes and intellectual games to creative concerts and events. The flagship event will be held in Khodynka Pole Park on June 28 and 29. This year, the festival concept provides for the synergy of key areas for the comprehensive development of the city’s youth. Eight key zones dedicated to various topics will be prepared for guests: patriotism, career guidance, creativity, personal development, friendship, sports, volunteering and trends. Visitors will enjoy educational lectures, trainings and master classes, a job fair, competitions in various sports and much more.

    Traditionally, on Youth Day, the KVN League Summer Cup “Youth of Moscow” and the “Space Basketball” tournament will be held, in which youth teams will take part. Young performers who want to make a name for themselves throughout the city will be able to perform on an open stage.

    From May 25 to September 7, the Youth Point festival will be held on Bolotnaya Square. The site will host hubs — interactive modern spaces dedicated to art, sports, development, and future competencies. The festival program will include large open discos, master classes in sketching, water painting, sports activities, and much more.

    Charity initiatives

    On July 5 and 6, the Bauman Garden will host the charity festival “City of the Caring”, dedicated to the Day of Family, Love and Fidelity. The entertainment program will include activities for the whole family. Guests will enjoy creative master classes, a charity quest, a no-lose lottery and photo zones for summer photos. A play area will be set up for children. At the “Fluffy Friend” site, guests will be able to meet animals from shelters and choose pets for themselves. A charity fair will also open, where goods from Moscow non-profit organizations (NPOs) will be presented. All proceeds from sales will be directed to helping their wards.

    Visitors will be able to get to know the city’s social projects better and take part in them.

    Checkers, table tennis and fitrock

    From May 29 to September 7, Moscow will host a festival of urban sports. Throughout the summer, sports training and entertainment events aimed at popularizing an active lifestyle among residents of the capital will be held in the capital’s parks. The most active participants will receive prizes.

    The project “Summer. Beach. Moscow Sport” will be held from May 31 to August 31. It is organized for those who spend the summer in Moscow. Zumba, stretching, functional training, beach volleyball, yoga and fiery fitrock training will be held in beach recreation areas on weekends. In addition, there will be an opportunity to play tetherball, frisbee and beach tennis.

    From May 31 to September 7, training sessions for the new season of the Sports Weekend project will take place, thanks to which city residents can do sports for free under the guidance of professional trainers on Saturdays and Sundays at more than 50 unique venues in the city, as well as online.

    From June 1 to September 7, the “Chess Square” space will be available near the Metropol Hotel. On weekdays, anyone can take chess sets and play easy games. On weekends, there will be family, open and children’s tournaments, as well as master classes by famous grandmasters.

    From June 1 to September 30, a new season of free training will be held as part of the My Sports District project. Participation in them will be interesting for city residents who love sports and want to do them regularly. Classes are held all year round and change depending on the season.

    On July 5, large-scale sports events “Moscow Sports Day” and “Moscow Sports Night” will take place. Guests will enjoy more than 20 themed sports grounds, master classes, tournaments and a concert with popular artists at “Moscow Sports Day”, as well as more than 15 zones with sports activities and autograph sessions with famous athletes at “Moscow Sports Night”.

    “Green Market” and art pavilions

    From May 25 to September 7, art pavilions of the Made in Moscow project will operate in tourist areas of the capital. Here you can buy more than 70 thousand products from local manufacturers – from clothes and cosmetics to children’s toys and food products.

    The flagship venue will be the Green Market on Bolotnaya Square, where a rollerdrome with a summer cinema will be available for the first time. Guests will be treated to a rollerdrome show, discos and events organized with the participation of the capital’s Committee on Public Relations and Youth Policy, which became a partner of the flagship venue for the first time this summer season.

    Reservation of venues

    The mos.ru portal is resuming its work on the city space booking service “Everyone on the street!”. From May 20, you can submit applications for holding events.

    Representatives of small and medium-sized businesses, individual entrepreneurs, self-employed individuals and individuals can book a site free of charge.

    More than 100 venues will be available for booking, including chalets for master classes, stages, gazebos, sports and dance floors, located in every district of the city.

    Results of the booking service last year

    Last year, the city hosted the festival “Summer in Moscow. Everyone out on the street!” for the first time – a new format of interaction between the city, business and Muscovites within the framework of the event program. Its key feature was that the agenda of summer recreation in the capital was created by Muscovites themselves. About 25 thousand events (every fourth) were organized by residents, businesses or NGOs. About 1.1 thousand entrepreneurs organized about 8.5 thousand events and presented their projects to a wide audience.

    Special project “Time of Opportunities”

    For the capital’s entrepreneurs, a special project called “Time of Opportunities” is starting, previously called “Come on in!” This is an excellent opportunity to vividly tell about your business, making it memorable for a wide audience. Shops, restaurants and cafes, service enterprises, fitness centers and sports studios, educational centers and creative studios can take part in the project.

    Participants will receive a summer business box, which includes a set of free services from market leaders for business promotion, the opportunity to post information about their events on the mos.ru poster, in the Yandex Maps and 2GIS applications, as well as media support in the media: on television, in online publications, print media and Telegram channels.

    The Russpass website will organize a collection of feedback from visitors. Entrepreneurs who have collected the largest number of positive reviews will receive a package for promoting their business, “The Most Active”.

    To become part of the project, you need to prepare a unique special offer. These can be thematic master classes, seminars, shows, performances and much more. You also need to fill out a participant’s questionnaire.

    Results of the special project for the last season

    As part of the special project “Come on in!”, more than 700 organizations from various fields made over 900 offers to city residents and tourists. These were discounts and bonuses, free master classes, gastronomic tastings, tickets to performances and sports classes. More than six thousand people took advantage of them.

    Art pavilions of the Made in Moscow project

    On April 15, a selection began among the capital’s entrepreneurs who will present their products in the art pavilions of the Made in Moscow project market, which is part of the city’s summer program Summer in Moscow.

    The selection will be held for participants of the Made in Moscow project – these are self-employed people, individual entrepreneurs, representatives of small, medium and large businesses that produce children’s goods, clothing and footwear, accessories, household and animal goods and much more in the capital.

    To do this, you need to register in the project on the website business.madeinmoscow.rf, having previously familiarized yourself with the conditions (availability of a capital tax identification number, as well as a full or partial production cycle on the territory of Moscow).

    A large-scale market of local goods will cover the main tourist sites, including Bolotnaya Square. More than 700 Moscow brands will be able to get space on the shelves for selling goods. Entrepreneurs will not only present their products, but will also hold thematic lectures and master classes, organize prize draws and tastings.

    Participation in the summer market “Made in Moscow” is a free measure of support provided to businesses by the capital Department of Entrepreneurship and Innovative Development.

    This allows local brands to increase their recognition among city residents, as well as sales of goods that they produce in the city. Thus, last year from August 1 to September 9, as part of the forum-festival “Territory of the Future. Moscow 2030” on Bolotnaya Square, the market of the future “Made in Moscow” was open. It was visited by more than 150 thousand people, and the revenue of the market participants reached 50 million rubles.

    It is also worth noting the successful experience of the Made in Moscow magic market as part of the city’s winter program “Winter in Moscow”. It was held from December 20 to February 28 at seven popular sites – from Arbat to Kuznetsky Most. It was visited by more than 570 thousand people. Moscow entrepreneurs sold over 50 thousand goods.

    The market became one of the key measures of city support, which was used by more than 500 Moscow brands. A rich entertainment program was organized for guests, including more than 3.5 thousand thematic events, including master classes and fashion shows.

    Get the latest news quicklyofficial telegram channel the city of Moscow.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/154057073/

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Pay bills and register an ATV: DIT reminds about useful services and services of the mos.ru portal for summer residents

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Moscow’s digital ecosystem allows city residents to solve most everyday issues from anywhere in Russia. You can transmit readings of water, heat and electricity meters, pay utility bills, make an appointment for your pets to see a veterinarian and do other everyday things even while at your dacha.

    “The mos.ru portal offers more than 450 online services, many of which will be useful during the summer season, and they can be used using a mobile device, which is very convenient when staying outside the city. Everyday services are also available in the Moscow State Services and My Moscow applications,” the capital’s

    Department of Information Technology.

    Submit meter readings

    It is recommended to transmit data on water consumption from the 15th of the current month to the third of the following month inclusive. This can be done using the service “Transmission of water and heat readings”, telegram bot or through specialists of the unified service department by phone: 7 495 539-25-25. Those who leave the city for a long time can indicate the minimum water meter readings for one or two months in advance. This data will be included in the unified payment document (UPD).

    The portal also offers the following service: “Receiving readings and paying for electricity”. It allows you to transmit readings of electricity meters, view the verification status of electricity meters, pay for electricity consumption, receive information on the current balance and debt. It is necessary to send meter data from the 15th to the 26th inclusive. If the device is equipped with an automated information and measuring system for commercial electricity metering, the information will be loaded into the system automatically.

    Pay the bills

    Summer residents can pay for housing and communal services, home telephone bills and other receipts remotely in the My Payments service on the mos.ru portal, as well as in the city mobile applications Moscow State Services and My Moscow. All unpaid bills are automatically loaded here if the user has a standard or full account and the necessary information is specified in the personal account, including the payer code, apartment address, personal account of JSC Mosenergosbyt and other data. If there is not enough information, quick search widgets will help. In addition, here you can connect autopayment or create a template, as well as top up the personal account of the transponder for travel on toll sections of roads. More information about the My Payments service – in the instructions.

    Those who pay for utilities online, may refuse from receiving paper unified payment documents. In this case, after returning to the city, you will not need to empty your mailbox. Receipts will stop coming from the next billing month after submitting the application. Instead, an electronic EPD will be loaded into your personal account.

    Take care of your pets’ health

    To prepare your pet for a trip and make its vacation enjoyable and safe, super service “My pet”. It contains tips on caring for pets, as well as information on all city veterinary services. An early visit to specialists at state veterinary clinics it is possible to planto vaccinate or chip your pet, complete accompanying documents and receive other services.

    Register self-propelled equipment

    Summer residents who have a tractor, ATV or other self-propelled equipment can use the state online service on the mos.ru portal “Registration of self-propelled vehicles and trailers for them”. Detailed information — in the instructions.

    Take part in the general meeting of owners

    To communicate with neighbors and management organizations during a trip out of town, Muscovites can use the “Electronic House” platform. It helps to receive up-to-date information about your home and area, publish messages on the electronic bulletin board, participate in general meetings of owners online and much more. The platform’s capabilities will become available after confirming the specified address. Its full functionality is also available in the mobile application “Electronic House Moscow”.

    Take an interesting book

    It will be useful for book lovers at their dacha service “Moscow Libraries”. With its help, you can not only find and reserve the necessary publications in city libraries, but also extend the return period for 30 days. This can be done in the reader’s account. To use the service, you will need a standard account on mos.ru andsingle library card. It can be obtained at any of the city’s 440 libraries or online. The electronic version of the ticket is easy to use. in the mobile application “My id”.

    On mos.ru you can set up notifications about new invoices from the Unified Payment Document for non-residential premisesThe core of the digital ecosystem: how to quickly register with the required department or government services center on the mos.ru portal

    You can learn about how the mos.ru portal turned from a news feed with a book of reviews into a resource where today more than 450 electronic services are presented from a popular science film “Moscow in Digital”.

    The creation, development and operation of the e-government infrastructure, including the provision of mass socially significant services, as well as other services in electronic form, corresponds to the objectives of the national project “Data Economy and Digital Transformation of the State” and the regional project of the city of Moscow “Digital Public Administration”.

    Get the latest news quicklyofficial telegram channel the city of Moscow.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/154097073/

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Since the beginning of the year, more than 1.7 thousand families have moved into new apartments under the renovation program in the east of the capital

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Since the beginning of 2025, over 1.7 thousand families in the east of the capital have moved to new buildings as part of the renovation program. Almost 75 percent of them took advantage of the city’s assistance in moving. This was reported by the Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Urban Development Policy and Construction Vladimir Efimov.

    “Since the beginning of 2025, about 4.8 thousand families have moved into new apartments under the renovation program. Of these, more than 1.7 thousand are in the Eastern Administrative District of the capital. In particular, in Severnoye Izmailovo, more than 500 families celebrated housewarming, and in Perovo – over 400. In the Sokolinaya Gora and Golyanovo districts, more than 300 and 200 families, respectively, moved into new apartments,” said Vladimir Efimov.

    In order to make the move under the renovation program more comfortable, the city provides residents with movers and a truck free of charge. This service can be ordered on the mos.ru portal – to do this, go tosuper service “Moving under the renovation program”, then select “Assistance with moving” or contact the resettlement information centers.

    “Of the 1.7 thousand families who moved in the east, almost 75 percent — over 1.3 thousand — used the “Moving Assistance” service. Of these, about 400 left requests for movers and a car in the Severnoye Izmailovo district, and another 350 in Perovo. In the Sokolinaya Gora and Golyanovo districts, about 200 and more than 160 families, respectively, used this service,” added the Minister of the Moscow Government, Head of the Department of Urban Development Policy

    Vladislav Ovchinsky.

    As noted inthe capital’s Department of Information Technology, will help you prepare for the move general instructions, available in the super service “Moving under the renovation program” on the mos.ru portal. With its help, you can find out how this process is organized and what documents are required. If you configure the parameters of the move, then the resident will be able to familiarize themselves with the scenario of the future resettlement depending on the specific life situation. And Muscovites who are already moving will be helped by detailed personalized instructions that are automatically customized for each resident. This will speed up the move and make it more comfortable.

    Earlier Sergei Sobyanin examined new house under the renovation program in Pokrovskoe-Streshnevo.

    The renovation program was approved in August 2017. It concerns about a million Muscovites and provides for the resettlement of 5,176 houses. Earlier, Sergei Sobyanin instructed to double the pace of implementation of the renovation program.

    Moscow is one of the leaders among regions in terms of construction volumes. High rates of housing construction correspond to the goals and initiatives of the national project “Infrastructure for life”.

    Get the latest news quicklyofficial telegram channel the city of Moscow.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/154106073/

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Pavilions and piers will appear on Pushkinskaya Embankment in Gorky Park

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    In the Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure, work continues on the construction of two multifunctional pavilions on Pushkinskaya Embankment. The construction of two berths is also planned there.

    Multifunctional pavilions in the form of a liner

    The pavilions are being built on a metal frame with reinforced concrete floors. Four of them are already ready, and two more are under construction. They will resemble a cruise liner.

    Floor-to-ceiling stained glass will be used for the facades of one of the pavilions under construction. Heated ceramic granite slabs will be laid on the roof that is used for construction, where an observation deck will be equipped. The area of the building will be 3.1 thousand square meters. Work is currently underway to construct a pit with soil replacement and a foundation; specialists have also begun installing the metal frame.

    Another multifunctional pavilion with an area of 3.5 thousand square meters and a height of 17.3 meters will be erected next to the Crimean Bridge. Its appearance will show features of constructivism. The construction of the foundation pit has already been completed, workers are starting to construct the foundation and install the monolithic slab and metal structures.

    The pavilion will have several entrances: from the Crimean Bridge, the service alley, and from the embankment. In front of each of them, a small cozy area will be arranged, and from the embankment side, an amphitheater and a green hill will be made in front of the entrance.

    On the first floor, a summer terrace will be equipped with a view of the lilac garden. On the second floor, a multi-purpose hall with a panoramic window overlooking the park will appear. It will be possible to hold a variety of events here.

    The existing passage to the embankment along the Crimean Bridge will be significantly expanded. Opposite the pavilion, a decorative panel will be created based on an unrealized sketch by Alexander Deineka.

    Piers-trestles

    This year, it is also planned to build two berths with a total area of 1.6 thousand square meters. They will be located on both sides of the ramp-stand on Pushkinskaya Embankment. Three barges will be used in the construction, two of which will deliver and store cargo, and another one will house a construction camp. They will also use two pusher tugs, a floating crane and a special pontoon for installing a crane and assembling berth structures.

    The berth structures will be trestle-type structures 110 meters long. Metal frames will be mounted on a pile foundation, and reinforced concrete slabs will be laid on them. The top coating will be made of heat-treated non-slip granite in light gray tones.

    Stainless steel railings will be installed on each of the berths. The first of them will have six staircases, including four with ramps for people with limited mobility, and the second will have three with ramps. Benches and trash bins will be installed nearby.

    Capital heated pavilions will be erected on the berths, where checkpoints with inspection equipment and turnstiles for paying for the trip will be placed. The pavilion frames will be metal, and stained glass structures made of double-chamber glass units with tempered triplex will be used for the facades.

    The buildings are equipped with good lighting, ventilation and air conditioning systems. Cable lines will be laid to organize the power supply. In order not to pollute the river with surface runoff from the piers, two water purification systems will be installed in the form of filter cartridges, which are cylindrical structures.

    The berths will be illuminated by modern LED lamps, and the pavilions will be equipped with architectural and artistic lighting.

    To ensure safe navigation on the Moscow River, the bottom will be deepened. To avoid erosion, it will be reinforced with gabion mesh structures placed on a layer of crushed stone in front of the berths.

    After the completion of the work, Pushkinskaya Embankment will become an even more popular place for city residents and tourists of all ages.

    Sergei Sobyanin: We are implementing six improvement projects in the Eastern Administrative District this year

    Get the latest news quicklyofficial telegram channelthe city of Moscow.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/154127073/

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • Banu Mushtaq becomes first Kannada author to win International Booker Prize for ‘Heart Lamp’

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Indian writer and women’s rights activist Banu Mushtaq has scripted history by becoming the first Kannada author to win the prestigious International Booker Prize. Her acclaimed short story anthology Heart Lamp clinched the award in London on Tuesday.

    Heart Lamp, originally written in Kannada and translated into English by Deepa Bhasthi, is a powerful anthology of 12 short stories that chronicle the everyday experiences of women and girls living in patriarchal communities in southern India. Spanning over three decades of writing—from 1990 to 2023—the collection reflects Mushtaq’s enduring commitment to portraying the nuanced realities of women’s lives.

    The International Booker Prize 2025 was jointly awarded to Mushtaq and translator Deepa Bhasthi, whose English rendition brought the stories to a global audience. This is the first full-length translation of Mushtaq’s work.

    According to the Booker Prize Foundation, Mushtaq is a prolific author with six short-story collections, a novel, an essay collection, and a volume of poetry to her credit. She is also the recipient of several notable literary accolades, including the Karnataka Sahitya Academy Award and the Daana Chintamani Attimabbe Award.

    Deepa Bhasthi, a writer and literary translator based in Kodagu, Karnataka, has previously translated works of Kannada literary giants such as Kota Shivarama Karanth and Kodagina Gouramma. Her skillful translation of *Heart Lamp* was also recognized as a vital component in bringing Kannada literature to a broader audience.

    Max Porter, Chair of the International Booker Prize 2025 jury, lauded Heart Lamp, stating that it was a unanimous favourite among the judges. “This was the book the judges really loved, right from our first reading. It’s been a joy to listen to the evolving appreciation of these stories from the different perspectives of the jury. We are thrilled to share this timely and exciting winner with readers around the world,” he said.

    Back home, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah congratulated Banu Mushtaq for her historic win. Taking to X, he wrote, “Heartfelt congratulations to Kannada’s pride, author Banu Mushtaq, who has been awarded the International Booker Prize. This is a moment of celebration for Kannada, Kannadigas, and Karnataka.”

    The Chief Minister also praised the translator, saying, “On behalf of all Kannadigas, I extend congratulations to the talented writer Deepa Bhasthi, who translated Banu Mushtaq’s Booker Prize-winning work Hridaya Deepa into English as Heart Lamp. I wish she continues to write and translate with strength and spirit, spreading the essence of Kannada across the world.”

    (With ANI inputs)

  • India’s Q4 FY25 GDP Growth Projected at 6.4-6.5% Despite Global Headwinds: SBI

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Despite weathering effects precipitated by global upheavals, the Indian economy stays largely resilient and is projected to clock a GDP growth of around 6.4-6.5 per cent in Q4 FY25, an SBI report said on Wednesday.

    To estimate GDP statistically, the State Bank of India’s Economic Research Department has built a ‘Nowcasting Model’ with 36 high-frequency indicators associated with industry activity, service activity, and the global economy.

    The model uses the dynamic factor model to estimate the common or representative or latent factor of all the high-frequency indicators from Q4 of FY13 to Q2 of FY23.

    “As per our ‘Nowcasting Model’, the forecasted GDP growth for Q4 FY25 should come in around 6.4-6.5 per cent,” said Dr. Soumya Kanti Ghosh, Group Chief Economic Advisor, SBI.

    Assuming there are no major revisions in Q1 to Q3 estimates in the upcoming data release by NSO, “we expect FY25 GDP to stand at 6.3 per cent,” Ghosh mentioned.

    The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has said the southwest monsoon is likely to arrive in Kerala within the next four to five days — well ahead of its normal onset date of June 1.

    If the monsoon arrives in Kerala as anticipated, it would mark the earliest onset over mainland India since 2009, when it began on May 23.

    “India is targeting 354.64 million tonnes of foodgrain production in the 2025-26 crop year starting July, on the forecast of better monsoon rains. In the current 2024-25 crop year, the government had set a target of 341.55 million tonnes of foodgrain production (so far: 332.3 million tonnes),” the SBI report mentioned.

    Further, taking a cue from a household survey, a slowdown in current household inflation expectations encourages higher discretionary spending and drives demand-led growth. However, the status quo in consumer confidence suggests that households are uncertain about global developments and economic prospects – caution is somewhat writ large on sustainable growth from a short-term perspective.

    The swift escalation of trade tensions and extremely high levels of policy uncertainty are expected to have a significant impact on global economic activity. As per the IMF, global growth is projected to drop to 2.8 per cent in 2025 and 3 per cent in 2026.

    “For India, the growth outlook is relatively more stable at 6.2 per cent in FY25 (6.3 per cent for FY26), supported by private consumption, particularly in rural areas, but this rate is 30 bps lower than the earlier estimate on account of higher levels of trade tensions and global uncertainty,” the report mentioned.

    (IANS)

  • India’s GDP growth in Q4 FY25 to remain robust around 6.4-6.5 pc: SBI report

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Despite weathering effects precipitated by global upheavals, Indian economy stays largely resilient and is projected to clock a GDP growth around 6.4-6.5 per cent in Q4 FY25, an SBI report said on Wednesday.

    To estimate GDP statistically, the State Bank of India’s Economic Research Department has built a ‘Nowcasting Model’ with 36 high frequency indicators associated with industry activity, service activity, and global economy.

    The model uses the dynamic factor model to estimate the common or representative or latent factor of all the high frequency indicators from Q4 of FY13 to Q2 of FY23. “As per our ‘Nowcasting Model’, the forecasted GDP growth for Q4 FY25 should come around 6.4-6.5 per cent,” said Dr Soumya Kanti Ghosh, Group Chief Economic Advisor, SBI.

    Assuming there are no major revisions in Q1 to Q3 estimates in the upcoming data release by NSO, “we expect FY25 GDP to stand at 6.3 per cent,” Ghosh mentioned. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has said the southwest monsoon is likely to arrive in Kerala within the next four to five days — well ahead of its normal onset date of June 1.

    If the monsoon arrives in Kerala as anticipated, it would mark the earliest onset over mainland India since 2009, when it began on May 23.

    “India is targeting 354.64 million tonnes of foodgrain production in the 2025-26 crop year starting July on the forecast of better monsoon rains. In the current 2024-25 crop year, the government had set a target of 341.55 million tonnes of foodgrain production (so far: 332.3 million tonnes),” the SBI report mentioned.

    Further, taking a cue from household survey, slowdown in current household inflation expectations encourages higher discretionary spending and drives demand-led growth while status quo in consumer confidence suggests that households are uncertain about the global developments and economic prospects – caution somewhat writ large on sustainable growth from a short-term perspective.

    The swift escalation of trade tensions and extremely high levels of policy uncertainty are expected to have a significant impact on global economic activity. AS per IMF, global growth is projected to drop to 2.8 per cent in 2025 and 3 per cent in 2026.

    “For India, the growth outlook is relatively more stable at 6.2 per cent in FY25 (6.3 per cent for FY26), supported by private consumption, particularly in rural areas, but this rate is 30 bps lower than the earlier estimate on account of higher levels of trade tensions and global uncertainty,” the report mentioned. (IANS)

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Shining a light on the fostering community’s powerful relationships

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    Foster Portsmouth, Portsmouth City Council’s fostering service, is encouraging people in Portsmouth and the surrounding areas to consider becoming foster carers this Foster Care Fortnight (12-25 May).

    Throughout the two weeks, Foster Portsmouth will be joining others across the UK to celebrate the fostering community, raise awareness of the life-changing impact fostering can have, and highlight the urgent need for more loving foster families in and around the city.

    Foster Portsmouth marked the start of the fortnight by lighting up the Spinnaker Tower in their brand colours and are flying their flag outside the Civic Offices for the duration.

    They will also be holding their spring drop-in foster carer recruitment event on Saturday 24 May between 10am-1pm at the Holiday Inn, Farlington as Foster Care Fortnight draws to a close.

    Councillor Nick Dorrington, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education at Portsmouth City Council, said:

    “The drop-in event will enable people, who wish to find out more about fostering and our ‘team around the child’, to talk directly to existing foster carers about the rewards of fostering children and young people.”

    “Our fostering community is one of our key strengths. As a ‘small but mighty’ not-for-profit fostering service, we get to know our foster carers and the children or young people in our care, and they’re able to stay close to their families, friends, schools and community links.”

    “As a result, we’re able to build a strong close-knit community spirit, and our foster carers collaborate closely with social workers and the professionals involved in a child’s care and development.”

    The theme of this year’s Foster Care Fortnight is ‘the power of relationships‘. This highlights the vital connections at the heart of fostering.

    Strong, trusting relationships are the golden thread that runs through every fostering story. Whether it’s the bond between a foster carer and a child, the support of social workers, the friendships built within fostering communities, or the connections with birth families, these relationships shape lives, create stability, and open up new possibilities for the future.

    The bonds formed with foster carers help children and young people grow and thrive. Foster carers play a crucial role in providing safe, stable, and nurturing homes for children and young people – many of whom have faced difficult or traumatic experiences.

    At the centre of many of these relationships within Foster Portsmouth is their  Mockingbird programme, a unique approach to supporting foster families. This sees up to 10 households create their own support networks, through a dedicated foster carer at a hub home. This approach has led to stronger, more resilient foster families, who are not just supported by professionals, but their own communities.

    Rachel Day, a foster carer in Portsmouth has directly benefited from this model. She said:

    “Mockingbird has created a community that feels like a family. Carers can build positive relationships and friendships with each other. Children and young people are given a sense of belonging where they are not the only child in our care.”

    “This support encourages carers to socialise with their families, to get outdoors and experience fun times together, creating positive memories that children and young people will remember.”

    However, more foster carers are urgently required in and around Portsmouth. 6,000 more are currently needed across the UK, with 820 of these needed in the South East. This shortage leaves too many children without the local homes they need to stay close to family, friends, school and clubs.

    There is a particular need for foster carers to look after teenagers and sibling groups. Fostering services are working hard to find and recruit the foster carers they need locally to look after these children.

    Portsmouth City Council is also spotlighting the team that supports foster families during Foster Care Fortnight. Social care practitioners work with groups of foster families within their community, alongside a lead carer. This distinctive approach aims to strengthen relationships and improve outcomes for children and young people in care.

    Stronger Futures, the children’s social care recruitment campaign, is celebrating Mockingbird liaison workers as they share their experiences from working in the community and the advantages of the Mockingbird model.

    Councillor Dorrington continued:

    “As we celebrate the remarkable work of our Mockingbird liaison workers, we’re highlighting the exceptional support they provide to foster families. Their commitment and the innovative approach of the Mockingbird model focus on building stronger relationships. Portsmouth City Council is proud to recognise these outstanding individuals during this fortnight, alongside our wonderful foster families and carers.”

    Anyone aged 21+ with a spare bedroom could foster with Foster Portsmouth regardless of their age, gender, faith, ethnicity, sexuality, marital or work status, or whether they rent or own their own home.

    Fostering could be a short or long term arrangement until they’re ready to live independently or be reunited with family, support for children seeking safety and asylum or children with a disability, supported lodgings to develop their independent living skills, a parent and baby placement, or respite care.

    Carers receive local round the clock support and ongoing quality training such as therapeutic care, including through our mentoring scheme and our innovative award-winning Mockingbird programme.. They also receive a  competitive financial package, social activities, and free membership to The Fostering Network.

    People can drop-in to the event on Saturday 24 May at the Holiday Inn, Farlington anytime between 10am and 1pm.

    To enquire now about fostering with Foster Portsmouth, people can fill in their contact form at www.foster.portsmouth.gov.uk/enquire-now, they can call 0300 1312797 or they can email info@lafosteringse.org.uk.

    For more information on Stronger Futures and careers in fostering, please visit www.strongerfutures.co.uk/fostering.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: President Lai welcomes President Surangel Whipps Jr. of Republic of Palau with military honors

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    President Lai welcomes President Surangel Whipps Jr. of Republic of Palau with military honors
    President Lai Ching-te welcomed President Surangel Whipps Jr. of the Republic of Palau and his wife on the afternoon of May 20 with full military honors. In remarks, President Lai stated that this year marks the 26th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between our two countries, and that we have supported one another, overcome all kinds of challenges, and deepened cooperation across various domains. He expressed hope that, going forward, we can work together to make even greater contributions to the world. He said he looks forward to this visit allowing our two countries to enjoy even closer relations and together create even more fruitful outcomes as a result of our cooperation.
    The welcome ceremony began at 4:00 p.m. in the plaza fronting the Presidential Office. President Lai and President Whipps each delivered remarks after a 21-gun salute, the playing of the two countries’ national anthems, and a review of the military honor guard.
    A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows:
    Today, I am delighted to welcome President Whipps, First Lady  Valerie Whipps, and their delegation with full military honors as they make this state visit to Taiwan. On behalf of the people and government of the Republic of China (Taiwan), I extend my sincerest greetings to President Whipps and the esteemed members of the delegation.
    President Whipps is visiting Taiwan again following his reelection last year. His decisive victory in that election not only demonstrated the Palauan people’s support and trust in him but also highlighted the values of freedom and democracy shared by Taiwan and Palau.
    This year marks the 26th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between our two countries. Along the way, we have supported one another, overcome all kinds of challenges, and deepened cooperation across many domains. In particular, over the past several years, Taiwan has actively engaged with the world. I would like to thank President Whipps and the government of the Republic of Palau for continuing to back Taiwan’s international participation at events around the globe.
    In the future, Taiwan will work with Palau to make even greater contributions to the world. I anticipate that through President Whipps’s visit, our two countries will enjoy even closer relations and together create even more fruitful outcomes as a result of our cooperation. I wish you a pleasant and successful visit. 
    President Whipps then delivered remarks, a transcript of which follows:
    Good afternoon, President Lai Ching-te, Vice President [Bi-khim] Hsiao, distinguished officials, Ambassador [Jessica C.] Lee (黎怩愀). On behalf of the first lady and the delegation from Palau, alii and good afternoon. President Lai, it’s only been a year since we were here celebrating your inauguration, and it is indeed a profound honor to stand before you today and witness this remarkable precision, professionalism, and pride displayed by the Taiwan Honor Guard. Their discipline, their dedication, and their unwavering commitment to duty are an inspiration to us, and not only to the people of Taiwan, but to all who cherish peace, order, and freedom in our region.
    And as president of the Republic of Palau, I bring you warm greetings from our people and express our deepest respect for the enduring friendship between our nations. Taiwan and Palau share more than diplomatic ties; we share common values, democracy, mutual respect, and a steadfast belief in the rule of law. This honor guard stands as a symbol of those values. Every step, every salute, and every formation speak not only to military excellence, but to the character of the people who defend peace and help uphold dignity and honor.
    In today’s world, where peace is often challenged and freedom is tested, it is heartening to know that there are those who stand firm, not for aggression, but for stability; not for power, but for principle. So these young men and women who serve in this honor guard and this elite unit, you are more than soldiers. You are ambassadors of your nation’s strength, discipline, and grace. Your service uplifts your nation’s image and strengthens the bonds we hold dear.
    May you continue to serve with excellence, with courage, and humility. And on behalf of the people of Palau, I thank you, President Lai. May our partnership grow stronger, our region more peaceful, and our futures more secure through the values we share. Thank you, mesulang, xiexie.
    Also in attendance at the welcome ceremony were Dean of the Diplomatic Corps and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Ambassador Andrea Clare Bowman  and members of the foreign diplomatic corps in Taiwan.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI: WISeKey Launches WISe.ART 3.0, One of the World’s First and Largest Web3 Marketplaces for Digital Art, Twins, NFTs, and Crypto Collectibles

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WISeKey Launches WISe.ART 3.0, One of the World’s First and Largest Web3 Marketplaces for Digital Art, Twins, NFTs, and Crypto Collectibles

    Geneva, Switzerland — May 21, 2025 — WISeKey International Holding Ltd (“WISeKey”) (SIX: WIHN, NASDAQ: WKEY), a leading global cybersecurity, blockchain, and IoT company, in partnership with its subsidiary, SEALSQ Corp (Nasdaq: LAES), which focuses on semiconductors, PKI, and post-quantum technology products, today announces the launch of  new enhanced WISe.ART marketplace, a revolutionary Web3 platform for digital art, digital twins, NFTs, and crypto collectibles. This next-generation marketplace is one of the first and largest of its kind.

    The WISe.ART 3.0 platform redefines the digital art experience by providing creators and collectors with a secure, traceable, and intelligent environment for trading and authenticating digital assets.

    Key Features of WISe.ART 3.0:

    • Native Web3 support: Users can securely and easily connect their Metamask or Walletconnect wallet to the platform. NFTs can be imported and exported to the marketplace to allow complete control of their digital collection.
    • Refreshed platform & Multi-Device support: The WISe.Art platform has received a complete overhaul of its front-end and back-end structure, allowing users to carry their digital collection with them at all times, as the new platform supports desktop, tablets and mobile devices.
    • Link Between Physical and Digital Assets: WISe.ART NFTs are irreversibly connected to their corresponding physical objects, ensuring tamper-proof authenticity and provenance.
    • Smart Contracts for Monetization: Artists and creators can set automated royalty structures, usage rights, and monetization strategies through embedded smart contracts.         
    • Advanced Cybersecurity & Post-Quantum Resilience: Secured by WISeKey’s and SEALSQ’s digital identity and encryption technologies, the platform safeguards all transactions and digital interactions against present and future cyber threats.
    • Easy purchase with Crossmint support: The Crossmint integration allows for seamless transactions with credit and debit cards, Apple and Google Pay, from anywhere in the world. Users that do not possess a wallet can create a ghost wallet on-the-fly upon checking out.

    For Version 3 we have listened to our users and have added important new functionalities which they requested:

    • Collectors and artists can now import pre-minted NFTs from other platforms as long as they are minted in the crypto we support (such as Hedera, Polygon or Eth) and that the pre-minted NFTs are compatible with our requirements. Those wishing to consolidate their NFT collections into one wallet – it can now be done on WISe.ART. Additionally, artists wishing to leave a certain platform can now join WISe.ART and showcase their complete collections on one platform safely and efficiently.
    • Relisting tokens on the secondary market is still possible but for those who do not have a compatible wallet, it can be created with few simple steps, new prices can be set as the market fluctuates.
    • The user journey for artists and collectors is made simple and intuitive. New FAQ or contact request forms have been integrated for those who seek human interaction. Our white glove service is enhanced throughout the process.

    Since its launch in 2021, WISe.ART, the NFT platform developed by WISeKey, has led numerous high-impact and pioneering NFT projects. Combining trusted digital identity, robust cybersecurity, and environmental consciousness, WISe.ART has redefined how digital art and luxury collectibles are created, verified, and traded. Here are the most significant NFT projects it has executed:

    • ONUART Foundation & United Nations – NFT for Education in Africa: A collaboration with ONUART and the UN led to NFT auctions designed to fund school-building initiatives in Africa, combining philanthropy with digital innovation. In 2023, WISeArt artist were the first to donate generative artworks to the ONUART Foundation in celebration of the 71st anniversary of the UN Human Right Charter.
    • Antonio Banderas Foundation – Pedro Sandoval NFT Drop: A limited-edition NFT by artist Pedro Sandoval was sold to benefit the Antonio Banderas Foundation, showcasing WISe.ART’s support for social causes through cultural art.
    • Swiss Collector Events & WISe.ART Awards: WISe.ART has organized NFT art exhibitions, including the WISe.ART Awards, recognizing digital creators and curators pioneering new frontiers in NFT art.

    Revolutionizing the Future of Art

    WISe.ART 3.0 is democratizing digital expression by empowering billions of people worldwide to create, share, and monetize their artistic visions through a secure and trusted platform. Whether it’s a digitally generated painting, a collectible tied to a physical sculpture, or a new form of cultural expression, WISe.ART enables creators from all backgrounds to participate in the global digital art economy, safely and transparently. A new physical space will open Geneva to represent WISe.ART digital works on May 22. This space aims to bridge the 19th and 21st Century technologies raising awareness among collectors. The showroom will be a case study for the web3 communities to mingle with their cultural heritage.

    Accessible Art Purchasing — Crypto Optional

    To acquire WISe.ART digital artworks, including those linked to NFTs or hosted on blockchains, cryptocurrency is not a requirement. NFTs are available for purchase in USD and other fiat currencies, and transactions can be completed securely via credit card, debit card, Apple Pay or Google Pay. Additionally, Crossmint facilitates the conversion of fiat money to crypto for users who wish to engage in blockchain-based purchases. While collectors of blockchain-based works typically need a crypto wallet, platforms such as Metamask and WalletConnect make wallet setup simple, intuitive, and user-friendly, enabling purchases with the ease of acquiring a traditional artwork.

    Carlos Moreira, Founder and CEO of WISeKey, stated: “Since inception the platform has welcomed an eclectic array of works representing all types of art from physical pieces coupled with digital twins, numeric compositions, ai assisted or generated art, music and film as well as collectibles like real estate, jewelry and design. As technology progresses, we attract artists who are keen to explore the new possibilities and means to convey their message. Technology is a tool – art is a vector for communication.”

    WISe.ART 3.0 opens the door to a future where creativity meets accountability, and where digital assets are as protected and valuable as their physical counterparts. For more information, visit www.wise.art

    About WISeKey

    WISeKey International Holding Ltd (“WISeKey”, SIX: WIHN; Nasdaq: WKEY) is a global leader in cybersecurity, digital identity, and IoT solutions platform. It operates as a Swiss-based holding company through several operational subsidiaries, each dedicated to specific aspects of its technology portfolio. The subsidiaries include (i) SEALSQ Corp (Nasdaq: LAES), which focuses on semiconductors, PKI, and post-quantum technology products, (ii) WISeKey SA which specializes in RoT and PKI solutions for secure authentication and identification in IoT, Blockchain, and AI, (iii) WISeSat AG which focuses on space technology for secure satellite communication, specifically for IoT applications, (iv) WISe.ART Corp which focuses on trusted blockchain NFTs and operates the WISe.ART marketplace for secure NFT transactions, and (v) SEALCOIN AG which focuses on decentralized physical internet with DePIN technology and house the development of the SEALCOIN platform.

    Each subsidiary contributes to WISeKey’s mission of securing the internet while focusing on their respective areas of research and expertise. Their technologies seamlessly integrate into the comprehensive WISeKey platform. WISeKey secures digital identity ecosystems for individuals and objects using Blockchain, AI, and IoT technologies. With over 1.6 billion microchips deployed across various IoT sectors, WISeKey plays a vital role in securing the Internet of Everything. The company’s semiconductors generate valuable Big Data that, when analyzed with AI, enable predictive equipment failure prevention. Trusted by the OISTE/WISeKey cryptographic Root of Trust, WISeKey provides secure authentication and identification for IoT, Blockchain, and AI applications. The WISeKey Root of Trust ensures the integrity of online transactions between objects and people. For more information on WISeKey’s strategic direction and its subsidiary companies, please visit www.wisekey.com.

    Disclaimer
    This communication expressly or implicitly contains certain forward-looking statements concerning WISeKey International Holding Ltd and its business. Such statements involve certain known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which could cause the actual results, financial condition, performance or achievements of WISeKey International Holding Ltd to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. WISeKey International Holding Ltd is providing this communication as of this date and does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements contained herein as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    This press release does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any securities, and it does not constitute an offering prospectus within the meaning of the Swiss Financial Services Act (“FinSA”), the FinSa’s predecessor legislation or advertising within the meaning of the FinSA. Investors must rely on their own evaluation of WISeKey and its securities, including the merits and risks involved. Nothing contained herein is, or shall be relied on as, a promise or representation as to the future performance of WISeKey.

    Press and Investor Contacts

    WISeKey International Holding Ltd
    Company Contact: Carlos Moreira
    Chairman & CEO
    Tel: +41 22 594 3000
    info@wisekey.com 
    WISeKey Investor Relations (US) 
    The Equity Group Inc.
    Lena Cati
    Tel: +1 212 836-9611
    lcati@equityny.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Bitcoin Buys a View: Trump Tower Dubai Embraces Cryptocurrency Payments via Deus X Pay

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VILNIUS, Lithuania, May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Deus X Pay, a licensed institutional stablecoin payment solution setting new standards across the luxury sectors, is now enabling crypto payments for property purchases at the new Trump Tower Dubai, the first Trump International Hotel to be built in the Middle East.

    The new $1 billion Trump Tower Dubai, unveiled through partnership with London-listed Dar Global, marks a breakthrough in global luxury real estate. Eric Trump, Executive Vice President of the Trump Organisation and son of US President Donald Trump, has recently announced that Bitcoin and other digital currencies will be accepted for condo sales.

    Ziad El Chaar, CEO of Dar Global, said the Trump Tower Dubai is among the most ambitious Trump-branded residential towers globally, reflecting the project’s magnitude, stature, and symbolic significance in the region and internationally.

    Trump previously told Gulf Business that Dubai is where luxury real estate and financial innovation intersect, and projects like Trump Tower Dubai are leading the way. By embracing technologies like stablecoins, buyers gain a faster, cheaper and more transparent way to secure exclusive, high-end properties while reshaping how luxury transactions are conducted.

    Deus X Pay, a licensed Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) in Lithuania, offers institutional stablecoin payment solutions, enabling luxury sectors such as real estate, aviation and yachting to capitalise on this new era of finance. Deus X Pay CEO, Richard Crook, highlights that Dubai has created an environment where stablecoins can flourish as a practical, secure tool for international transactions (with Crypto Watch reporting that crypto adoption in the UAE is expected to surge 210% in 2025), giving premium buyers faster, frictionless access to high-value assets.

    “Dubai’s forward-thinking stance has unlocked a whole new economy, and the gold standard for transactions of high-value assets. International buyers seek faster settlements, fewer cross-border complications and seamless access to premium developments. This project is a defining moment — not just for Deus X Pay, but for the global real estate sector. We are thrilled to deliver the regulated rails that make it possible for premium property buyers to transact instantly, compliantly and without the traditional delays or friction.”

    The Trump Tower Dubai, an 80-story architectural icon, offers the highest international standards for ultra-high-net-worth travellers and long-stay residents. The exclusive building boasts 2-3 bedroom apartments and 4-bedroom penthouses valued at over AED 73 million, the highest outdoor swimming pool in the world, and has views of the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa.

    This new skyscraper is part of an expanding trend across private aviation, superyachts, and luxury collectables as high-end sectors embrace digital assets as a payment option to future-proof legacy industries.

    For media enquiries, contact:
    Sarah Tran
    Head of Marketing
    media@deusxpay.com

    About Deus X Pay
    Deus X Pay is a regulated provider of institutional stablecoin payment solutions, revolutionising the authorisation, clearing, and settlement of cryptocurrency payments. We enhance global payment options for institutions, businesses, and corporations by seamlessly merging traditional finance with advanced digital payment infrastructure, enabling faster, more cost-effective, and secure transactions.

    Fully compliant and regulated as a Virtual Asset Service Provider, Deus X Pay operates under a license in Lithuania, supervised by the Financial Crime Investigation Service (FNTT), the Czech Republic, supervised by the Financial Analytical Office (FAU), and in Canada, supervised by the Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada (FINTRAC).

    As a part of the innovative crypto investment firm Deus X Capital, we equip organisations with state-of-the-art financial tools aimed at fostering growth and success in today’s dynamic market.

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

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

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4da4d9a6-74af-4322-b030-f4ed0f09eb4f

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Video: The Golden Dome Missile Defense Shield

    Source: United States of America – The White House (video statements)

    President Trump announced the Golden Dome missile defense shield to protect the homeland from advanced missile threats.

    Included in the One, Big, Beautiful Bill, this project aims to ensure American security. Congress must pass the bill and send it to the President’s desk.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-xWxN_qObfI

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Sobyanin: 7.2 million people took part in the Active Citizen project

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The Active Citizen project has turned 11 years old. Sergei Sobyanin announced this in his blog.

    In 2014, Moscow became a pioneer of digital democracy by creating a project “Active Citizen”. A unique platform gave Muscovites the opportunity to directly influence the development of the best city on Earth.

    “Today, 11 years later, Active Citizen has 7.2 million participants, that is, practically every second resident of Moscow. This is a large-scale community of active citizens who rightfully become full-fledged co-authors of many city projects and transformations. Every month we implement 30-40 decisions supported by Muscovites,” wrote Sergei Sobyanin.

    The project participants make decisions in a variety of areas. Thanks to the voting conducted since 2014, more than two thousand courtyards, streets, parks and embankments have acquired a modern look. New standards for the activities of clinics, libraries and My Documents government service centers have been developed and implemented. More than a million trees and shrubs have been planted on Moscow streets and avenues.

    The capital’s festivals have become more interesting and eventful. Moscow has branded tea and ice cream. More than 130 city objects, including streets, squares and metro stations, have received names. And the baby panda and other pets of the Moscow Zoo, Moskvarium and the City Farm at VDNKh now bear names given to them by city residents.

    Having appeared as a platform for voting, the Active Citizen project has gradually turned into a multifunctional platform where residents can offer their own ideas for improving Moscow, participate in city projects, complete online quests, and learn about various events and news from the life of the capital.

    For active participation in the project, points of the city loyalty program “Million Prizes” are awarded, which residents use to purchase tickets to museums, excursions and exhibitions, souvenirs with project logos or to top up the “Troika” card. If desired, the earned points can be sent to charitable foundations and public organizations (one point is equal to one ruble). Last year alone, donations from participants in city electronic projects amounted to more than 71 million points/rubles.

    In 2025, the online platform “Active Citizen for Children” was launched, created specifically for young Muscovites aged at least six and under 14 years. Now, not only adults can decide what the capital will be like, but also children. The platform invites children to an exciting world of quizzes, games, comics and video stories that introduce children to Moscow and tell about the capital’s initiatives and achievements.

    “Active Citizen” is an excellent example of how, with the right approach, digital technologies can become an effective tool for interaction between the government and society, where the opinion of each person matters, and active participation in the life of the city brings real benefits to everyone,” added Sergei Sobyanin.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/mayor/tkhemes/12762050/

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI China: Renovation of old residential communities benefits 120M people

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

    China renovated 280,000 old residential communities from 2019 to 2024, benefiting more than 120 million people, Vice Minister of Housing and Urban-Rural Development Qin Haixiang said Tuesday.

    The nationwide program has benefited 48 million households, Qin said at a State Council Information Office press conference on a set of guidelines regarding the country’s urban renewal efforts.

    The renovation program has upgraded 360,000 km of aging pipelines, added 3.87 million parking spaces, and constructed 78,000 community service facilities for elderly care and childcare, according to official data.

    Local authorities have focused on addressing residents’ most pressing concerns. They also implemented energy-efficiency renovations covering 446 million square meters of residential buildings nationwide.

    Regions across China have also prioritized installing elevators in existing residential buildings as a key livelihood project. This initiative has particularly benefited the elderly and mobility-impaired.

    “This allows elderly people with mobility difficulties and trouble navigating stairs to now conveniently go downstairs to enjoy sunshine and chat with longtime neighbors,” Qin said. “This benefits their physical and mental health and has been widely welcomed by the communities.”

    By the end of 2024, China’s urbanization rate reached 67 percent, with 940 million people living in urban areas, according to official data. The country is intensifying efforts to advance its urban renewal initiative as it strives to build livable, resilient and smart cities, and to bolster high-quality development.

    In its latest push, China on May 15 unveiled a set of guidelines, pledging increased policy and financial support for urban renewal projects, which can range from gas pipe updates and lift installations to the renovation of old factories into commercial zones.

    The guidelines, issued by the general offices of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the State Council, are designed to achieve key progress in the country’s urban renewal campaign by 2030. They also aim to improve safety conditions, enhance service efficiency, elevate living environments, develop business models, and preserve cultural heritage.

    “We’re working to improve utilization of existing resources by renovating old factories, inefficient buildings, and traditional commercial facilities,” Qin noted.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government Cuts – Govt dismantling of public housing confirmed with Kāinga Ora axing a net 620 roles – PSA

    Source: PSA

    The sacking of hundreds of workers at Kāinga Ora is just more evidence of the Government’s heartless treatment of vulnerable families who rely on the support of the state for a roof over their heads.
    Kāinga Ora today confirmed final plans to shed a net 620 roles across various teams. Many of these workers are providing frontline services to support tenants such as those at call centres and those working with other government agencies to find the right houses, in the right place for families.
    “This is another shameful day for the Government which promised no cuts to frontline services – this is a lie which is being exposed every day across the public sector,” said Fleur Fitzsimons, National Secretary for the Public Service Association for Te PĆ«kenga Here Tikanga Mahi.
    “Many workers will now have to re-apply for new roles, with 769 workers having their roles disestablished. This piles stress and uncertainty on so many people doing valuable work for families across New Zealand.
    “The Government is turning its back on supporting vulnerable families who have relied on Kāinga Ora to provide them with warm and secure homes – a basic human right.
    “Just as we have seen with the attack on underpaid women, this is a government that favours the privileged. Fewer public houses will be built by the Government as it repeats the mistakes of the past and shifts the responsibility to community providers.
    “The Government made a choice to gut Kāinga Ora – all part of the bigger plan to cut public services, and fund tax breaks for landlords. The irony is not lost on workers.”
    The latest cuts mean a third of the Kāinga Ora workforce has been shown the door in a year.
    “The dismantling of Kāinga Ora will make it harder for a future government to rebuild the agency that was succeeding in housing thousands of families. It’s disgraceful.”
    The Public Service Association Te PĆ«kenga Here Tikanga Mahi is Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest trade union, representing and supporting more than 95,000 workers across central government, state-owned enterprises, local councils, health boards and community groups.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-Evening Report: Interest rates are coming down. Here’s what homeowners should know about refinancing

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ama Samarasinghe, Lecturer, Financial Planning and Tax, RMIT University

    doublelee/Shutterstock

    On Tuesday, the Reserve Bank of Australia cut the target cash rate by 0.25 percentage points. It now sits at 3.85% – the lowest since May 2023.

    Australia’s big four banks were all quick to announce they would be passing the cuts on to borrowers. If you’ve got a mortgage, you might be wondering if this is your cue to act.

    Refinancing your home loan – whether by negotiating a better deal with your current lender or switching to a new one – could save you thousands over the life of your loan.

    However, it won’t be the right decision for everyone. And there are some important things to know about how the process works – including hidden costs and risks.

    What is refinancing?

    Refinancing simply means replacing your existing home loan with a new one – either from your current lender or a different one. The goal? To take advantage of better loan terms.

    If you’re on a “variable rate” loan, your lender may already be passing on some or all of the recent rate cut (though you may have had to opt in).




    Read more:
    RBA cuts interest rates, ready to respond again if the economy weakens further


    But if you’re on a “fixed rate” loan, your repayments will stay the same until your fixed term ends – meaning you might not benefit from the cut unless you refinance (though break costs could apply).

    Switching to a loan with a lower rate can mean smaller monthly repayments. Or, by keeping repayments the same size but with a lower interest rate, you could potentially pay off a loan faster and save in the long term.

    Refinancing activity has been trending up since 2021, with external refinancing (switching banks) rising significantly among both owner-occupiers and investors. That’s a clear sign many borrowers are chasing better deals.

    Refinancing activity could increase further after this month’s rate cut.
    Zivica Kerkez/Shutterstock

    Can refinancing save you money?

    Yes – if it’s right for you and you do it right. Switching to a lower interest rate could slash thousands off your yearly repayments.

    If you’ve built up equity, you might be able to release funds to reinvest or improve your property. Some lenders also offer refinancing cashback deals – one-off payments to attract new customers.

    There are some important things to consider – including some traps to avoid – if you’re thinking about refinancing your home loan.

    1. Be mindful of your loan-to-value ratio

    Loan-to-value ratio (LVR) is the amount you borrowed as a percentage of the property’s value or purchase price.

    If your LVR is above 80%, you probably paid lenders mortgage insurance (LMI) on your original loan, designed to protect the lender in case you default.

    If your current loan still exceeds 80% of your home’s value (based on the new lender’s valuation), you might need to pay LMI again. That cost could wipe out any benefit from a lower rate.

    2. Careful how you compare

    When comparing rates and repayments, make sure you’re comparing apples with apples.

    If you’ve already paid five years on a 30-year loan, you have 25 years left. But when you ask a new lender for a quote, they may show repayments based on a full 30-year term – which could make the monthly repayment look much lower.

    To make a fair comparison, ask for quotes based on your remaining loan term. If you decide to switch, aiming for a loan with the same term can help you avoid paying more interest in the long run.

    3. Factor in all associated costs

    Refinancing comes with costs. These may include:

    • break fees if you’re leaving a fixed-term loan early
    • settlement fees for your current lender to close out the loan
    • application and valuation fees with the new lender
    • ongoing monthly fees that might not seem large but can add up over time.

    Also, if you’re applying to multiple lenders to compare offers, be aware requesting multiple credit checks in a short space of time can negatively impact your credit score.

    4. Consider renegotiating with your existing lender first

    Lenders rarely offer their best deals to existing customers – unless you ask. In fact, they often reserve the most attractive deals for new customers.

    Consider picking up the phone and asking for a rate review. If you have a better offer from another bank, you may be able to use that as leverage.

    Staying with your current lender can have advantages. It may be quicker and easier than refinancing with another lender. But don’t let loyalty cost you – especially if better rates are on the table elsewhere.

    5. Don’t assume your repayments will drop automatically

    For borrowers on variable loans, some banks don’t automatically reduce your repayments after a rate cut. You may need to manually adjust them through your bank’s app or website, or “opt in”.

    Alternatively, keeping your repayment amount the same could help you pay off your loan faster and reduce interest costs.

    Banks don’t always automatically adjust variable loan repayments after a rate cut.
    David Lade/Shutterstock

    6. Check your credit score before applying

    Your credit score can play a key role in refinancing. Lenders use it to assess how risky it is to lend to you – and it can affect the interest rate you’re offered.

    If your score has dropped since you first took out your loan, you may not qualify for the best deals.

    Check your score through your bank or a free online service before you apply. If it’s low, take time to improve it before refinancing to boost your chances of approval and better rates.

    For an estimate of your potential savings from refinancing, try the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC)’s MoneySmart mortgage switching calculator.


    Disclaimer: This article provides general information only and does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation, or needs. It is not intended as financial advice. Before acting on any information, consider whether it is appropriate for your circumstances.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Interest rates are coming down. Here’s what homeowners should know about refinancing – https://theconversation.com/interest-rates-are-coming-down-heres-what-homeowners-should-know-about-refinancing-257116

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Advocacy – NZNO care and support workers at Parliament for Budget Day

    Source: New Zealand Nurses Organisation

    Care and support workers who had their pay equity claims dumped overnight after years of work will meet at Parliament tomorrow to voice their frustration at the Coalition Government’s changes.
    The workers are members of New Zealand Nurses Organisation TƍpĆ«tanga Tapuhi Kaitiaki o Aotearoa (NZNO) and are some of the 3000 aged residential care health care assistants who were party to the claim.
    NZNO care and support delegate Tash Greig says care and support workers were devastated by the changes.
    “The Government chose not to prioritise low-paid women in this year’s Budget. They can find funding for landlords and the film industry, but not for women doing some of society’s toughest jobs.
    “The work we do has been underpaid and undervalued for generations because we are women. Our claim was almost finalised and would have meant our hard work was finally properly recognised.
    “To heap injustice on injustice, these changes were made without warning or consultation. That’s why we are joining the cross-union hui at Parliament tomorrow.
    “We want the Government to treat us with the same dignity and respect we treat our elderly and vulnerable patients with – and reverse these changes,” Tash Greig says.
    When: 1-2pm, Thursday 22 May 2025
    Where: Parliament Lawn.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News