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  • Trump, Netanyahu meet a second time as gaps said to narrow in Gaza ceasefire talks

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    U.S. President Donald Trump on Tuesday met for a second time in two days with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss Gaza as Trump’s Middle East envoy said Israel and Hamas were closing their differences on a ceasefire deal.

    The Israeli leader departed the White House on Tuesday evening after just over an hour’s meeting with Trump in the Oval Office, with no press access. The two men also met for several hours during a dinner at the White House on Monday during Netanyahu’s third U.S. visit since the president began his second term on January 20.

    Netanyahu met with Vice President JD Vance and then visited the U.S. Capitol on Tuesday, and is due back in Congress on Wednesday to meet with U.S. Senate leaders.

    He told reporters after a meeting with the Republican House of Representatives Speaker Mike Johnson that while he did not think Israel’s campaign in the Palestinian enclave was done, negotiators are “certainly working” on a ceasefire.

    “We have still to finish the job in Gaza, release all our hostages, eliminate and destroy Hamas’ military and government capabilities,” Netanyahu said.

    Shortly after Netanyahu spoke, Trump’s special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, said the issues keeping Israel and Hamas from agreeing had dropped to one from four and he hoped to reach a temporary ceasefire agreement this week.

    “We are hopeful that by the end of this week, we’ll have an agreement that will bring us into a 60-day ceasefire. Ten live hostages will be released. Nine deceased will be released,” Witkoff told reporters at a meeting of Trump’s Cabinet.

    A delegation from Qatar, which has been hosting indirect talks between Israeli negotiators and the Hamas Palestinian militant group, met with senior White House officials for several hours before Netanyahu’s arrival on Tuesday, Axios reported, citing a source familiar with the details.

    The White House had no immediate comment on the report.

    The Gaza war erupted when Hamas attacked southern Israel in October 2023, killing around 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages, according to Israeli figures. Some 50 hostages remain in Gaza, with 20 believed to be alive.

    Israel’s retaliatory war in Gaza has killed over 57,000 Palestinians, according to the enclave’s health ministry. Most of Gaza’s population has been displaced by the war and nearly half a million people are facing famine within months, according to United Nations estimates.

    Trump had strongly supported Netanyahu, even wading into domestic Israeli politics by criticizing prosecutors over a corruption trial against the Israeli leader on bribery, fraud and breach-of-trust charges that Netanyahu denies.

    In his remarks to reporters at the U.S. Congress, Netanyahu praised Trump, saying there has never been closer coordination between the U.S. and Israel in his country’s history.

    (Reuters)

  • FBI launches probes into former FBI, CIA directors, Fox News reports

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The FBI has launched criminal probes into former CIA Director John Brennan and former FBI Director James Comey, Fox News Digital reported on Tuesday, citing sources.

    The probes are over alleged wrongdoing related to past government investigations about claims of Russian interference in the 2016 U.S. elections in which President Donald Trump defeated former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, the news report said.

    The CIA and the Justice Department had no immediate comment. The FBI declined to comment.

    The scope of the criminal investigations into Brennan and Comey was unclear, the report added. Trump-nominated CIA Director John Ratcliffe referred Brennan, who served in that role under former Democratic President Barack Obama, for potential prosecution, according to the report.

    A criminal investigation does not necessarily result in charges. Brennan did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Comey could not immediately be reached.

    Fox said its sources were from the Justice Department but did not specify the number of sources.

    “I am glad to see that the Department of Justice is opening up this investigation,” White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt told Fox News’ “Jesse Watters Primetime” show in an interview.

    The probes reportedly target two former officials who have long drawn the ire of Trump and his supporters for their role in investigating Russian interference in the 2016 election.

    Comey led the FBI when authorities began a criminal investigation in 2016 into potential coordination between the Trump campaign and the Russian government to influence the election. Trump fired Comey in 2017 early in his first term after Comey publicly confirmed Trump was under investigation.

    The probe was then taken over by former Special Counsel Robert Mueller, who found no evidence of a criminal conspiracy between Trump’s 2016 campaign and Russia.

    Trump railed against the investigation for years and has repeatedly dismissed it as the “Russia hoax.”

    Brennan led the CIA when U.S. intelligence assessed, in a report made public in January 2017, that Russian President Vladimir Putin sought to sway the 2016 U.S. vote in favor of Trump.

    A CIA review released last week found flaws in the preparation of the 2017 assessment, but it did not contest its underlying conclusion.

    The Fox News report on the investigations broke as Trump’s top officials at the FBI and Justice Department faced online criticism from some Trump supporters for concluding that there was no evidence to support long-held conspiracy theories about the death of accused sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein.

    During Trump’s first term, the Justice Department appointed a separate special counsel, John Durham, to examine any missteps in the FBI’s Russia investigation. Durham brought charges against three lower-level figures who worked on the probe or provided information to investigators, but did not find evidence of a conspiracy to target Trump.

    (Reuters)

  • Latest Red Sea attack on Greek ship kills four crew, wounds two

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    A drone and speedboat attack off Yemen killed four seafarers on a Liberian-flagged, Greek-operated bulk carrier, an official with knowledge of the matter said on Tuesday, the second incident in a day, following months of calm.

    Traffic in the Red Sea, a key waterway for oil and commodities, has dropped since Yemen’s Houthi militia aligned with Iran began targeting ships in 2023 in what it called solidarity with Palestinians under assault in Israel’s war in Gaza.

    The deaths on the Eternity C, the first involving shipping in the Red Sea since June 2024, take to eight the total of seafarers killed in the Red Sea attacks.

    One more injured crew died on board after the attack, a source with knowledge of the matter said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

    The Houthis have not commented on the Eternity C, but hours earlier claimed responsibility for a strike on another Liberia-flagged, Greek-operated bulk carrier, the MV Magic Seas, off southwest Yemen on Sunday, saying the vessel sank.

    “After several months of calm, the resumption of deplorable attacks in the Red Sea constitutes a renewed violation of international law and freedom of navigation,” IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez said on Tuesday.

    The U.S. State Department condemned the “unprovoked Houthi terror attack on the civilian cargo vessels MV Magic Seas and MV Eternity C”, as demonstrating the threats the Houthis posed to freedom of navigation and regional security.

    Washington “will continue to take necessary action to protect freedom of navigation and commercial shipping,” it added in a statement.

    The Eternity C’s operator, Cosmoship Management, was not immediately available to comment.

    Eternity C, with 21 Philippine nationals and a Russian making up a crew of 22, was adrift and listing after the attack with sea drones and rocket-propelled grenades fired from manned speed boats, maritime security sources told Reuters.

    Greece was in diplomatic talks with Saudi Arabia over the incident, sources said, as two maritime security firms, including Greece-based Diaplous, prepared to mount a rescue mission for the crew trapped on Eternity C.

    An official with Aspides, the European Union’s mission assigned to help protect Red Sea shipping, also said at least two other crew were injured. Earlier, Liberia’s shipping delegation told a U.N. meeting that two crew were killed.

    The Houthis released a video they said depicted their attack on the Magic Seas, including the Mayday call, explosions, and the vessel’s ultimate submersion. Reuters could not independently verify the footage.

    The vessel’s manager said the information about the sinking could not be verified.

    But Joshua Hutchinson, managing director of maritime security firm Ambrey, told Reuters it had a response vessel in the area and confirmed the Magic Seas had gone down.

    All crew on the Magic Seas were rescued by a passing merchant vessel and arrived safely in Djibouti on Monday, Djibouti authorities said.

    Since November 2023, the Houthis have disrupted commerce by launching hundreds of drones and missiles at vessels in the Red Sea, saying they were targeting ships linked to Israel.

    While the Houthis struck a ceasefire with Washington in May, the militia has vowed to keep attacking ships it says are connected with Israel.

    “Just as Liberia was processing the shock and grief of the attack against Magic Seas, we received a report that Eternity C again has been attacked … causing the death of two seafarers,” Liberia’s delegation told a session of the International Maritime Organization.

    ‘ELEVATED RISKS’

    Both vessels attacked were part of commercial fleets whose sister vessels have called at Israeli ports over the past year.

    “The pause in Houthi activity did not necessarily indicate a change in underlying intent,” said Ellie Shafik, head of intelligence with the Britain-based maritime risk management company Vanguard Tech.

    “As long as the conflict in Gaza persists, vessels with affiliations, both perceived and actual, will continue to face elevated risks.”

    The Philippines has urged its seafarers, who form one of the world’s largest groups of merchant mariners, to exercise their right to refuse to sail in “high-risk, war-like” areas, including the Red Sea after the latest strikes, its department of migrant workers said.

    Shipping traffic through the region has shrunk about half from normal levels since the first Houthi attacks in 2023, said Jakob Larsen, chief safety and security officer with shipping association BIMCO.

    “This reduction in traffic has persisted due to the ongoing unpredictability of the security situation,” Larsen said. “As such, BIMCO does not anticipate the recent attacks will significantly alter current shipping patterns.”

    Monday’s attack on Eternity C, 50 nautical miles southwest of Yemen’s port of Hodeidah, was the second on merchant vessels in the region since November 2024, an official at Aspides said.

    On Monday, Israel’s military said it had struck Houthi targets at three Yemeni ports and a power plant, in its first attack on Yemen in a month.

    The Houthis say their attacks are an act of solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza where Israel’s military assault since late 2023 has killed more than 57,000 people, Gaza authorities say.

    The Israeli assault has unleashed a hunger crisis, internally displaced the entire population of Gaza and spurred accusations of genocide at the International Court of Justice and of war crimes at the International Criminal Court.

    Israel denies the accusations.

    The latest bloodshed in the decades-old Israeli-Palestinian conflict was triggered in October 2023, when Palestinian Hamas militants attacked Israel, killing 1,200 and taking about 250 hostages, Israeli tallies show.

    (Reuters)

  • Trump to attend Club World Cup final, FIFA opens office in Trump Tower

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    U.S. President Donald Trump will attend Sunday’s Club World Cup final in East Rutherford, New Jersey, he said at a Cabinet meeting on Tuesday, as world soccer’s ruling body FIFA announced it had opened an office in New York’s Trump Tower.

    The expanded tournament featuring many of the world’s best club teams has been widely seen as a dry run for the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico with a record 48 national teams taking part.

    Sunday’s Club World Cup final at MetLife Stadium will be a preview of next year’s championship match, with the home of the NFL’s New York Jets and Giants also hosting the 2026 finale.

    “I’ll be going to the game,” Trump told reporters.

    The news came a day after FIFA President Gianni Infantino announced the opening of a representative office at Trump Tower, where the Club World Cup trophy will be on display until the final.

    “We have received such a big support from the government and from the President with the White House Task Force for the FIFA Club World Cup (now) and for the FIFA World Cup next year,” Infantino said.

    Trump has not shied away from sport’s super-sized spotlight during his second term, becoming the first sitting president to attend a Super Bowl in February, and in May announcing D.C. as the host for the 2027 NFL Draft from the Oval Office.

    His immigration crackdown and travel ban on 12 countries have prompted concerns ahead of the 2026 World Cup, however, even as Infantino offered assurances that the world will be welcomed in the U.S. for the quadrennial global showpiece event.

    A memo obtained by Reuters last month showed that the Trump administration was considering significantly expanding its travel restrictions by potentially banning citizens of 36 additional countries from entering the U.S.

    (Reuters)

  • UAE authorities clarify Golden Visa rules amid misleading claims

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security has moved to clarify widespread confusion surrounding UAE Golden Visa requirements after multiple Indian news outlets reported that nationals could secure lifetime residency simply by paying AED 100,000 through unauthorized consultancy services.

    A Golden Visa is a long-term residency permit that grants foreign nationals the right to live, work, and study in the UAE for extended periods, typically 10 years, with renewal options. Unlike traditional residence visas that require continuous employment or business sponsorship, Golden Visas offer greater independence and stability, allowing holders to sponsor family members, own property, establish businesses, and maintain residency even during extended periods abroad.

    The authority categorically denied recent reports suggesting that lifetime Golden Visas could be obtained by certain nationalities through external consultancy firms. These claims, which circulated widely across Indian media platforms and social media channels, have been declared inaccurate and without legal basis.

    Official sources confirmed that all Golden Visa applications must be processed exclusively through official government channels within the UAE, with no internal or external consultancy entity recognized as an authorized party in the application process. The categories, conditions, and regulations of the Golden Visa remain clearly defined in accordance with official laws, available on the Authority’s website and smart application.

    The confusion appears to have originated from reports about a new nomination-based pathway that was being developed as a pilot program. While the UAE has introduced various Golden Visa categories beyond traditional investment requirements, including pathways for skilled professionals in fields such as science, technology, medicine, education, and arts, these applications still require proper nomination procedures and extensive vetting processes.

    Recent media coverage had suggested that Indians could bypass traditional investment requirements of AED 2 million in property or substantial business investments by simply paying the lower fee through consultancy services. This representation significantly mischaracterized the actual requirements and approval processes involved in Golden Visa applications.

    The Authority observed that news articles from consultancy offices based in other countries had been suggesting that lifetime Golden Visas could be obtained from outside the UAE via consulting entities under simplified conditions. These claims were made without coordination with relevant UAE authorities and have no legal foundation.

    The Authority reaffirmed its commitment to providing a safe and transparent environment for applicants through official digital platforms exclusively. Legal action will be taken against entities spreading false information in attempts to illegally collect money from individuals aspiring to live and reside in the UAE.

    Currently, the UAE allows applications under twelve official Golden Visa categories, including paths for investors, entrepreneurs, specialized talents, outstanding students, humanitarian pioneers, and frontline heroes. Five additional categories introduced in 2025 cover nurses, educators, content creators, e-sports professionals, and luxury yacht owners, but all remain subject to official application procedures and approval criteria.

    Potential applicants have been strongly advised to verify information through official sources before taking any action. The Authority’s official website and 24-hour call center at 600522222 provide accurate information about current Golden Visa categories, requirements, and application procedures. The confusion highlights the importance of consulting official government sources rather than relying on third-party consultancy claims or media reports that may misrepresent actual policies and procedures.

  • Buoyant India unperturbed by prospect of spicy Lord’s pitch

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India expect England to roll out a challenging track for the third test at Lord’s but are confident their in-form batters can master it, batting coach Sitanshu Kotak said on Tuesday.

    India levelled the five-test series 1-1 with a thumping 336-run victory at Edgbaston where they racked up 587 in the first innings and declared their second on 427-6.

    England are pondering overhauling their tired bowling attack and a fit-again Jofra Archer is in line to play his first test in more than four years at Lord’s.

    “It will be a challenge if Jofra comes in,” Kotak told reporters ahead of the third test beginning on Thursday.

    “England might want to make a couple of bowling challenges. The wicket, it seems, will also be a bit more challenging.

    “After the last two games, if England decides to roll out a more challenging wicket, it’s fair enough.”

    The green tinge of the pitch tells Kotak that runs would not exactly flow at Lord’s.

    “This wicket looks greener than the last two matches. But one cannot be too sure before the final trimming tomorrow,” he said.

    “Normally the first and second innings scores at Lord’s tend to be lower. So bowlers can expect a bit more help here.”

    Shubman Gill has been in sensational form in his first series as India’s test captain smashing a hundred in the opening test in Leeds and following it with scores of 269 and 161 at Edgbaston.

    Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal have also struck hundreds, which Kotak believed meant they would not be found wanting at Lord’s regardless of conditions.

    “For the batters, it will be a matter of just trying to spend as much time as possible on this wicket and adjust to it,” he said.

    “Our batters are so skilful that they are scoring at four an over even when they are not looking to score quickly.

    “But the mindset here would be, we won’t look for boundaries. If you don’t play silly shots, you’ll play long innings on these wickets.”

    (Reuters)

  • Trump says steep copper tariffs in store as he broadens his trade war

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    U.S. President Donald Trump on Tuesday said he would impose a 50% tariff on imported copper and soon introduce long-threatened levies on semiconductors and pharmaceuticals, broadening his trade war that has rattled markets worldwide.

    One day after he pressured 14 trading partners, including powerhouse U.S. suppliers like South Korea and Japan, with fresh tariff letters, Trump reiterated his threat of 10% tariffs on products from Brazil, India and other members of the BRICS group of countries.

    He also said trade talks have been going well with the European Union and China, though he added he is only days away from sending a tariff letter to the EU.

    Trump’s remarks, made during a White House cabinet meeting, could inject further instability into a global economy that has been shaken by the tariffs he has imposed or threatened on imports to the world’s largest consumer market.

    U.S. copper futures jumped more than 10% after Trump’s announcement of new duties on a metal that is critical to electric vehicles, military hardware, the power grid and many consumer goods. They would join duties already in place for steel, aluminum and automobile imports, though it was unclear when the new tariffs might take effect.

    U.S. pharmaceutical stocks also slid following Trump’s threat of 200% tariffs on drug imports, which he said could be delayed by about a year.

    Other countries, meanwhile, said they would try to soften the impact of Trump’s threatened duties after he pushed back a Wednesday deadline to August 1.

    Trump’s administration promised “90 deals in 90 days” after he unveiled an array of country-specific duties in early April. So far only two agreements have been reached, with the United Kingdom and Vietnam. Trump has said a deal with India is close.

    Trump said countries have been clamoring to negotiate.

    “It’s about time the United States of America started collecting money from countries that were ripping us off … and laughing behind our back at how stupid we were,” he said.

    He said late Tuesday that “a minimum of seven” tariff notices would be released on Wednesday morning, and more in the afternoon. He gave no other details in his Truth Social post.

    Trading partners across the globe say it has been difficult to negotiate even framework agreements with the U.S. given the haphazard way new tariffs are announced, complicating their internal discussions about concessions.

    HIGHEST LEVELS SINCE 1934

    Following Trump’s announcement of higher tariffs for imports from the 14 countries, U.S. research group Yale Budget Lab estimated consumers face an effective U.S. tariff rate of 17.6%, up from 15.8% previously and the highest in nine decades.

    Trump’s administration has been touting those tariffs as a significant revenue source. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Washington has taken in about $100 billion so far and could collect $300 billion by the end of the year. The United States has taken in about $80 billion annually in tariff revenue in recent years.

    The S&P 500 finished slightly lower on Tuesday, a day after Wall Street markets sold off sharply following Trump’s new tariffs announcement.

    Trump said he will “probably” tell the European Union within two days what rate it can expect for its exports to the U.S., adding that the 27-member bloc had been treating his administration “very nicely” in trade talks.

    The EU, the largest bilateral trade partner of the U.S., aims to strike a deal before August 1 with concessions for key export industries such as aircraft, medical equipment and spirits, according to EU sources. Brussels is also considering an arrangement that would protect European automakers with large U.S. production facilities.

    However, German Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil warned that the EU was prepared to retaliate if necessary.

    “If we don’t reach a fair trade deal with the U.S., the EU is ready to take counter measures,” he said in the lower house of parliament.

    Japan, which faces a possible 25% tariff – up from 24% first threatened in April – wants concessions for its large automobile industry and will not sacrifice its agriculture sector, a powerful domestic lobby, for the sake of an early deal, top trade negotiator Ryosei Akazawa said on Tuesday.

    South Korea, which also faces a possible 25% tariff, said it planned to intensify trade talks over the coming weeks “to reach a mutually beneficial result.”

    Washington and Beijing agreed to a trade framework in June, but with many of the details still unclear, traders and investors are watching to see if it unravels before a separate, U.S.-imposed August 12 deadline or leads to a lasting detente.

    “We have had a really good relationship with China lately, and we’re getting along with them very well. They’ve been very fair on our trade deal, honestly,” Trump said, adding that he has been speaking regularly with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

    Trump said the United States would impose tariffs of 25% on goods from Tunisia, Malaysia and Kazakhstan; 30% on South Africa and Bosnia and Herzegovina; 32% on Indonesia; 35% on Serbia and Bangladesh; 36% on Cambodia and Thailand; and 40% on Laos and Myanmar.

    (Reuters)

  • Dollar firm, Asian stocks mixed as traders ponder tariff outlook

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The dollar traded close to a 2-1/2-week high versus major peers on Wednesday while copper hit an all-time peak overnight after U.S. President Donald Trump broadened his global trade war by threatening a 50% tariff on the metal.

    Trump also said levies on semiconductors and pharmaceuticals were coming soon, weighing on Wall Street on Tuesday, with futures indicating further weakness there on Wednesday.

    However, stock markets around the Asia-Pacific were mixed, as investors digested Trump’s latest, shifting trade salvos. Japan and South Korea are among major U.S. trading partners in the region facing an August 1 deadline to reach a trade deal or be subjected to new tariff rates, although Trump has sent mixed signals on how flexible that date is.

    On Monday, Trump said it was “firm, but not 100% firm,” reinforcing the view among some in markets that the deadlines are a negotiating tactic that the U.S. president will ultimately back away from. On Tuesday though, Trump appeared to harden his stance by saying, “No extensions will be granted.”

    Japan’s Nikkei edged down 0.2%, shedding early small gains. Australia’s stock index declined 0.4%, and Hong Kong’s Hang Seng lost 0.9%.

    At the same time, mainland Chinese blue chips rose 0.2%, and South Korea’s KOSPI climbed 0.5%.

    U.S. S&P 500 futures ESCv1 eased 0.1%, following a 0.1% loss for the cash index .SPX on Tuesday that extended the 0.8% drop that started the week.

    “The delay in the imposition of new tariffs on some of the U.S.’s major trading partners to August 1 has simultaneously kicked the proverbial can down the road and supported the notion that the loftier tariff rates are a negotiating ploy,” Kyle Rodda, senior financial markets analyst at Capital.com, wrote in a note.

    “As a result, the markets have been left hanging, and waiting for a stronger catalyst to drive the next move.”

    Trump said on Tuesday that trade talks have been going well with the European Union and China, though he added he is only days away from sending a tariff letter to the EU.

    Only two U.S. agreements, with Britain and Vietnam, have been reached since Trump’s April 2 “Liberation Day” reciprocal tariffs’ announcement roiled markets. In June, Washington and China agreed on a framework covering tariff rates.

    METALS, CURRENCIES

    U.S. copper futures jumped by more than 10% to a record high after Trump threatened new duties on the metal that is critical to electric vehicles, military hardware, the power grid and many consumer goods. They would join duties already in place for steel, aluminium and automobile imports.

    By contrast, copper futures in London and Shanghai fell on Wednesday, as traders may not have sufficient time to ship much to the United States following Trump’s sudden tariff announcement.

    Trump also threatened 200% tariffs on drug imports, which he said could be delayed by about a year.

    The U.S. dollar continued its recent run of strength on Wednesday, pushing to the highest since June 20 at 147.02 Japanese yen.

    The dollar index =USD, which measures the currency against the yen and five other major rivals, edged up to 97.573, after touching the highest since June 25 on Tuesday at 97.837.

    The euro was steady at $1.1720 EUR=EBS, and sterling GBP=D3 was flat at $1.3585.

    Gold XAU= found a floor at $3,301 per ounce, after slumping more than 1% on Tuesday.

    Oil prices edged back from Tuesday’s two-week highs. Brent crude futures LCOc1 were down 20 cents at $69.95 a barrel, and U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude CLc1 fell 21 cents to $68.12 a barrel.

    (Reuters)

  • Trump says BRICS nations to get 10% tariff ‘pretty soon’

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    U.S. President Donald Trump said on Tuesday the U.S. would “pretty soon” charge a 10% tariff on imports from BRICS countries, drawing another complaintfrom Brazil PresidentLuiz Inacio Lula da Silva, who just hosted the bloc’s annual summit.

    Trump, who raised the tariff threat on Sunday, said in a Tuesday cabinet meeting at the White House that the duty was on the way: “Anybody that’s in BRICS is getting a 10% charge pretty soon … If they’re a member of BRICS, they’re going to have to pay a 10% tariff … and they won’t be a member long.”

    The BRICS group expanded last year beyond Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa to include members such as Iran and Indonesia. Leaders at the summit in Rio de Janeiro voiced indirect criticism of U.S. military and trade policies.

    Asked about Trump‘s tariff threat, Lula told journalists at the BRICS summit on Monday that the world does not want an emperor. After a state visit from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Lula on Tuesday expressed further disagreement.

    “We will not accept any complaints about the BRICS summit. We do not agree with the U.S. president insinuating he’s going to put tariffs on BRICS countries,” he told journalists in Brasilia.

    Trump gave no specific date for the BRICS tariff to kick in. On Monday, a source familiar with the matter said the Trump administration would charge the tariff only if countries adopted anti-American policies, differentiating actions from statements like the one adopted by the BRICS leaders on Sunday.

    Trump claimed without evidence on Tuesday that the group was set up to hurt the United States and he U.S. dollar’s role as the world’s reserve currency. He said he would not allow that to happen.

    “BRICS was set up to degenerate our dollar and take our dollar … take it off as the standard,” he said. “And that’s okay if they want to play that game, but I can play that game too.”

    Trump said losing the dollar’s role as the world’s reserve currency would be like “losing a war, a major world war. We would not be the same country any longer.”

    Brazil in February nixed plans for a common currency agenda during its presidency year.

    (REUTERS)

  • Death toll from Texas flood hits triple-digits as tally of missing tops 180

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The death toll from the July Fourth flash flood that ravaged a swath of central Texas Hill Country rose on Tuesday to at least 109, many of them children, as search teams pressed on through mounds of mud-encrusted debris looking for scores of people still missing.

    According to figures released by Governor Gregg Abbott, authorities were seeking more than 180 people whose fate remained unknown four days after one of the deadliest U.S. flood events in decades.

    The bulk of fatalities and the search for additional victims were concentrated in Kerr County and the county seat of Kerrville, a town of 25,000 residents transformed into a disaster zone when torrential rains struck the region early last Friday, flooding the Guadalupe River basin.

    The bodies of 94 flood victims, about a third of them children, have been recovered in Kerr County alone as of Tuesday, Texas Governor Greg Abbott said at a late-afternoon news conference after touring the area by air.

    The Kerr County dead include 27 campers and counselors from Camp Mystic, a nearly century-old all-girls Christian summer retreat on the banks of the Guadalupe near the town of Hunt. The camp director also perished.

    Five girls and a camp counselor were still unaccounted for on Tuesday, Abbott said, along with another child not associated with the camp.

    As of Tuesday, 15 other flood-related fatalities had been confirmed across a swath of Texas Hill Country known as “flash flood alley,” the governor said, bringing the overall tally of lives lost to 109. Reports from local sheriffs’ and media have put the number of flood deaths outside Kerr County at 22.

    But authorities have said they were bracing for the death toll to climb as flood waters recede and the search for more victims gains momentum.

    Law enforcement agencies have compiled a list of 161 people “known to be missing” in Kerr County alone, Abbott said. The roster was checked against those who might be out of touch with loved ones or neighbors because they were away on vacation or out of town, according to the governor.

    ‘FIND EVERY SINGLE PERSON’

    He said another 12 people were missing elsewhere across the flood zone as a whole, a sprawling area northwest of San Antonio.

    “We need to find every single person who is missing. That’s job number one,” Abbott said.

    On Tuesday, San Antonio-born country singer Pat Green disclosed on social media that his younger brother and sister-in-law and two of their children were among those “swept away in the Kerrville flood.”

    Hindered by intermittent thunderstorms and showers, rescue teams from federal agencies, neighboring states and Mexico have joined local efforts to search for missing victims, though hopes of finding more survivors faded as time passed. The last victim found alive in Kerr County was last Friday.

    “The work is extremely treacherous, time-consuming,” Lieutenant Colonel Ben Baker of the Texas Game Wardens said at a press conference. “It’s dirty work. The water is still there.”

    A water-soaked family photo album was among the personal belongings found in flood debris by Sandi Gilmer, 46, a U.S. Army veteran and certified chaplain volunteering in the search operation along the Guadalupe at Hunt.

    “I don’t know how many people in this album are alive or deceased,” she said, flipping through images of two toddlers and a gray-haired man. “I didn’t have the heart to step over it without picking it up and hoping to return it to a family member.”

    MAKINGS OF A DISASTER

    More than a foot of rain fell in the region in less than an hour before dawn last Friday, sending a wall of water cascading down the Guadalupe that killed dozens of people and left mangled piles of debris, uprooted trees and overturned vehicles.

    Public officials have faced days of questions about whether they could have alerted people in flood-prone areas sooner.

    The state emergency management agency warned last Thursday, on the eve of the disaster, that parts of central Texas faced a flash floods threat, based on National Weather Service forecasts.

    But twice as much rain as predicted ended up falling over two branches of the Guadalupe just upstream of the fork where they converge, sending all of that water racing into the single river channel where it slices through Kerrville, City Manager Dalton Rice said.

    Rice has said the outcome was unforeseen and unfolded in a matter of two hours, leaving too little time to conduct a precautionary mass evacuation without the risk of placing more people in harm’s way.

    Scientists have said extreme flood events are growing more common as climate change creates warmer, wetter weather patterns in Texas and other parts of the country.

    At an earlier news briefing on Tuesday, Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha rebuffed questions about the county’s emergency operations and preparedness and declined to say who was ultimately in charge of monitoring weather alerts and issuing flood warnings or evacuation orders.

    He said his office began receiving emergency-911 calls between 4 a.m. and 5 a.m. on Friday, several hours after the local National Weather Service station issued a flash-flood alert. “We’re in the process of trying to put (together) a timeline,” Leitha said.

    Abbott said a special session of the Texas legislature would convene later this month to investigate the emergency response and provide funding for disaster relief.

    (Reuters)

  • UK and France must end dependency on US and China, Macron warns

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    French President Emmanuel Macron said on Tuesday Britain and France must work together to counter the world’s many destabilising threats and protect Europe from “excessive dependencies” on the United States and China.

    Macron, in a rare address to both houses of the British parliament, celebrated the return of closer ties between the two countries as he became the first European leader to be invited for a British state visit since Brexit.

    Having been greeted earlier by the British royal family, Macron set out to parliament where he said the two countries needed to come together to strengthen Europe, including on defence, immigration, climate, and trade.

    “The United Kingdom and France must once again show the world that our alliance can make all the difference,” he said.

    “The only way to overcome the challenges we have, the challenges of our times, will be to go together hand in hand, shoulder to shoulder.”

    Listing the geopolitical threats the countries face, Macron argued they should also be wary of the “excessive dependencies of both the U.S. and China,” saying they needed to “de-risk our economies and our societies from this dual dependency.”

    But he also set out the opportunities of a closer union, saying they should make it easier for students, researchers and artists to live in each other’s countries, and seek to work together on artificial intelligence and protect children online.

    The speech symbolised the improvement in relations sought by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s centre-left Labour Party, as part of a broader reset of ties with European allies following the rancour over Britain’s departure from the European Union.

    ‘ENTENTE AMICALE’

    Macron, who enjoys a strong personal relationship with King Charles, was earlier greeted by the royal family, including heir-to-the-throne Prince William and his wife Princess Catherine, before they travelled in horse-drawn carriages to Windsor Castle.

    Charles used his speech at the evening’s opulent state banquet to christen a new era of friendly relations, upgrading the “entente cordiale” – an alliance dating from 1904 that ended centuries of military rivalries – to an “entente amicale.”

    “As we dine here in this ancient place, redolent with our shared history, allow me to propose a toast to France and to our new entente. An entente not only past and present, but for the future – and no longer just cordiale, but now amicale,” he said.

    The 76-year-old monarch, who is undergoing treatment for cancer, had a noticeably red right eye. A Buckingham Palace source said he had suffered a burst blood vessel that was unrelated to any other health condition.

    Britain and France marked the three-day visit with an announcement that French nuclear energy utility EDF would invest £1.1 billion ($1.5 billion) in a nuclear power project in eastern England.

    The two also said France would lend Britain the Bayeux Tapestry, allowing the 11th-century masterpiece to return for the first time in more than 900 years, in exchange for Britain loaning France Anglo-Saxon and Viking treasures.

    The state visit comes 16 years after the late Queen Elizabeth hosted then-French president Nicolas Sarkozy.

    Despite tensions over post-Brexit ties and how to stop asylum seekers from crossing the Channel in small boats, Britain and France have been working closely to create a planned military force to support Ukraine in the event of a ceasefire with Russia.

    Starmer is hoping that will help persuade Macron to take a different approach to stopping people smuggling, with London wanting to try out an asylum seekers’ returns deal. This would involve Britain deporting one asylum seeker to France in exchange for another with a legitimate case to be in Britain.

    A record number of asylum seekers have arrived in Britain on small boats in the first six months of this year.

    Starmer, whose party is trailing Nigel Farage’s right-wing Reform UK party in the polls, is under pressure to find a solution.

    France has previously refused to sign such an agreement, saying Britain should negotiate an arrangement with all EU countries.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: In South Asia, anaemia threatens women’s health and economic futures

    Source: United Nations 4

    The warning, issued jointly by UN agencies and the regional socio-economic bloc SAARC on Wednesday, underscores South Asia’s status as the “global epicentre” of anaemia among adolescent girls and women.

    An estimated 259 million already suffer from the condition, which impairs the body’s ability to carry oxygen, contributing to chronic fatigue, poor maternal outcomes, and reduced educational and economic participation.

    “This is a clarion call for action,” said Sanjay Wijesekera, Regional Director for the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF), which together with the UN World Health Organization (WHO) and SAARC prepared the analysis.

    “When half of all adolescent girls and women in South Asia are anaemic, it is not only a health issue – it is a signal that systems are failing them.”

    A far-reaching but preventable condition

    Anaemia doesn’t just affect women and girls – it contributes to 40% of the world’s low birth weight cases and affects child growth and learning, particularly in poorer households.

    The economic toll is staggering: anaemia costs South Asia an estimated $32.5 billion annually, perpetuating cycles of poverty and poor health.

    Yet, the condition is preventable and treatable. Proven solutions include iron and folic acid supplementation, iron- and vitamin-rich diets, better sanitation and infection control, and stronger maternal health services.

    Experts stress that multi-sector collaboration is critical for sustained progress.

    A nurse speaks to women about nutritious food in western India’s Sabarkantha district, were many women and girls suffer from iron deficiency.

    Integrated efforts crucial

    In nearly every country, progress hinges on strengthening health systems, expanding nutrition programmes, and reaching adolescent girls and women in marginalised communities.

    Sri Lanka, where 18.5 per cent of women of reproductive age are anaemic, is scaling up its national nutrition initiative, focusing on the most affected districts.

    India and Pakistan are also seeing encouraging signs. In India, high-burden states are integrating iron supplementation into school and maternal care programmes. Pakistan has piloted community-based nutrition initiatives linked to reproductive health services, enabling early detection and follow-up care.

    In Bangladesh, school-based health initiatives are reaching adolescents with fortified meals and health education, coordinated across health, education, and agriculture ministries.

    Community-driven action works

    The Maldives and Bhutan are prioritising early prevention through childhood nutrition, food fortification, and public awareness campaigns. Though smaller in population, both are investing in anaemia surveillance and inter-ministerial collaboration.

    Nepal stands out for its equitable results: since 2016, the country has cut anaemia among women of reproductive age by 7 per cent, with larger declines in poorer areas. Its female community health volunteers are key, providing counselling and referrals in remote regions and linking vulnerable households to public services.

    Man Kumari Gurung, a public health nurse in Karnali Province, credits the achievements to a range of community-driven efforts.

    “Pregnant women receive eggs, chicken and nutritious food through programmes like Sutkeri Poshan Koseli (Nutrition Gift for New Mothers),” she said. “Cash grants also help with transport to hospitals, supporting safer births and better nutrition.”

    © UNICEF/InceptChang

    A nurse checks a pregnant woman’s weight and vital signs at a clinic in Galigamuwa, Sri Lanka.

    Everyone has a role

    Ending anaemia requires leadership and teamwork. Governments must lead, but communities, health workers, schools, and families all play a part.

    Stronger health systems, better data, and coordinated action across sectors can help girls and women reach their full potential – building healthier communities and stronger economies.

    “Young people and mothers are at the heart of South Asia’s development goals. Ensuring that they are healthy, nourished and empowered is not just a moral imperative, it is a strategic investment in the future of our societies,” said Md. Golam Sarwar, Secretary General of SAARC.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI: HERE and Genesys Partner to Tackle Distracted Driving and Deliver Next-Generation Navigation Experiences in India

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • Strategic collaboration brings dynamic maps, real-time traffic updates and integrated safety features to Indian vehicles
    • Partnership supports India’s automotive shift toward software-defined, connected driving experiences

    Mumbai, India – HERE Technologies, the global leader in digital mapping and location data, and Genesys International, a leading Indian geospatial solutions company, have joined forces to radically improve the in-car navigation experience and strengthen road safety efforts across India.

    Together, HERE and Genesys International are planning to develop a next-generation, in-car navigation system that targets distracted driving. The companies are focused on providing Indian drivers with a seamless digital cockpit user experience with rich features that include live map and navigation capabilities, road hazard alerts and real-time traffic information from HERE, alongside integrated Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) functions from Genesys International.

    Approximately 80,000 people are killed in road crashes every year across India, with more than 3,000 fatalities attributed to mobile phone use, according to India’s Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. This presents a clear opportunity to integrate in-car navigation and the vehicle systems to reduce driver distraction, enhance safety and deliver advanced user experiences.

    A recent HERE survey involving a representative sample of road users across India revealed 98% of respondents expressed concerns about road safety. Furthermore, 91% of respondents believed ADAS functions are key for road safety. The shift toward Software-Defined Vehicles (SDVs) and the broader digital transformation in the automotive sector is creating momentum for change. As automakers in India look to match global trends, embedded navigation systems that work seamlessly with a vehicle’s safety and infotainment platforms are becoming essential.

    “There is a clear call from road users in India for more accessible and advanced vehicle safety technologies, including ADAS,” said Deon Newman, Senior Vice President and General Manager for Asia Pacific, at HERE Technologies. “Our collaboration with Genesys International bridges global expertise and local innovation enabling automakers to integrate intelligent, ADAS-ready solutions that support safer, smarter, and more connected driving experiences in India.

    In recent years, Indian automotive manufacturers have begun offering digital navigation systems in newer models. However, solutions have faced challenges in keeping pace with the expectations of today’s drivers. To address this gap, this partnership combines HERE Navigation’s customizable, digital cockpit-ready software with ADAS from Genesys International to deliver a dynamic, intuitive and safe in-vehicle experience. Powered by AI, HERE’s mapping architecture provides real-time updates on road conditions, speed limits, real-time traffic, optimized routes for EV, and charging stations, ensuring precise, context-aware guidance for drivers.

    Commenting on this partnership, Sajid Malik, Chairman & Managing Director of Genesys International Corporation, said: “This partnership with HERE is a significant step in our effort to improve the safety and intelligence of India’s roads. We are combining our India-specific ADAS map technology with HERE’s worldwide navigation platform to assist automakers in offering truly connected, context-aware driving experiences. This strategic partnership supports India’s automotive transition to software-defined, connected mobility by providing Indian cars with integrated safety features, dynamic maps, and real-time traffic updates.”

    HERE has a strong presence in India, with over 3,000 employees working across offices in three major Indian cities. Committed to the principle of “Made in India, for India”, this partnership reinforces the commitment of both companies to support OEMs in shaping the future of mobility in India – one that prioritizes safety, convenience, and real-time intelligence.

    Looking ahead, HERE and Genesys International plan to jointly innovate on advanced mobility solutions focused on keeping drivers safe on the roads in India. As part of their long-term vision and commitment to India, both companies will explore the establishment of a dedicated mobility innovation center in India, where local teams will co-develop and pilot solutions that directly addresses the challenges Indian drivers face daily.

    Customers of HERE include nearly every global automaker, leaders in transportation and logistics, and public sector agencies worldwide. HERE is the global market leader for automotive-grade maps designed to power navigation, advanced driving assistance, EV and automated driving systems. More than 54 million vehicles today rely on maps from HERE for advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) and automated driving functions. HERE location data and software services have now been used in 222+ million vehicles globally.

    Genesys International Corporation Ltd. is a leading provider of advanced mapping, surveying, and geospatial solutions. With over 23 years of domain expertise and 2,000+ professionals, Genesys delivers high-precision 3D mapping, ADAS-ready HD maps, and cutting-edge digital twin and AI-driven platforms. Headquartered in Mumbai with multiple production centers, Genesys serves a global client base—including Fortune 500 companies and SMEs—across automotive, infrastructure, utilities, and e-governance sectors. As one of the world’s largest LiDAR acquisition and processing firms, Genesys has mapped over 2 million kilometers, powering critical applications in navigation, autonomous systems, and smart mobility, shaping the future of connected, safe, and sustainable transportation.

    Media Contacts

    Genesys International Corporation

    investors@igenesys.com

    Branding Edge

    Shreeya Namjoshi

    +91 7715836283

    shreeya@Brandingedgestrategies.com

    HERE Technologies

    Vanessa Lee

    +65 9188 6199

    Vanessa.lee@here.com

    About Genesys International Corporation

    Genesys International Corporation Ltd is a premier advanced mapping company. With a team of over 2,000 professionals along with the nationwide Genesys constellation of sensors, the company is building the new India map stack. Genesys International has unique expertise, encompassing an understanding of emerging consumer applications related to mapping technology and the capability to provide cutting-edge solutions on the enterprise and government markets.

    About HERE Technologies
    HERE has been a pioneer in mapping and location technology for 40 years. Today, HERE’s location platform is recognized as the most complete in the industry, powering location-based products, services and custom maps for organizations and enterprises across the globe. From autonomous driving and seamless logistics to new mobility experiences, HERE allows its partners and customers to innovate while retaining control over their data and safeguarding privacy. Find out how HERE is moving the world forward at here.com. 

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • Supreme Court clears way for Trump to pursue mass federal layoffs

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The U.S. Supreme Court on Tuesday cleared the way for Donald Trump’s administration to pursue mass government job cuts and the sweeping downsizing of numerous agencies, a decision that could lead to tens of thousands of layoffs while dramatically reshaping the federal bureaucracy.

    Tuesday’s ruling stemmed from an executive order Trump issued in February ordering agencies to prepare for mass layoffs. At Trump’s direction, the administration has come up with plans to reduce staff at the U.S. Departments of Agriculture, Commerce, Health and Human Services, State, Treasury, Veterans Affairs and more than a dozen other agencies.

    In a brief unsigned order, the court said the Trump administration was “likely to succeed” in its argument that his directives were legally within his power.

    The decision is the latest win for Trump’s broader efforts to consolidate power in the executive branch. The Supreme Court has sided with Trump in several cases on an emergency basis since he returned to office in January, including clearing the way for implementation of some of his hardline immigration policies.

    The Supreme Court’s decision on Tuesday lifted San Francisco-based U.S. District Judge Susan Illston’s order in May that temporarily blocked large-scale federal layoffs while the case proceeded.

    Illston had ruled that Trump exceeded his authority in ordering the government downsizing without consulting Congress, which created and funded the agencies in question.

    “As history demonstrates, the president may broadly restructure federal agencies only when authorized by Congress,” Illston wrote.

    While Tuesday’s decision cleared one major legal obstacle for the White House, the court noted that it was not assessing the legality of any specific layoff plans at federal agencies.

    Those layoff proposals, some of which were submitted earlier this year, could still face legal challenges on a variety of grounds, including union opposition, statutory restrictions and civil service protections.

    The White House said in a statement that the decision is a “definitive victory for the president and his administration” that reinforced Trump’s authority to implement “efficiency across the federal government.”

    However, two White House sources familiar with the matter, who asked to remain unidentified, said the ruling did not permit agencies to execute layoffs immediately. One of the sources said additional delays or legal hurdles “could alter the scope and timing of the cuts.”

    A group of unions, nonprofits and local governments that sued to block the administration’s mass layoffs said the ruling “dealt a serious blow to our democracy and puts services that the American people rely on in grave jeopardy” and vowed to continue fighting as the case proceeds.

    The plaintiffs had warned in court filings that Trump’s plans, if allowed to proceed, would result in hundreds of thousands of layoffs.

    A Reuters/Ipsos poll in April found that Americans narrowly favored Trump’s campaign to downsize the federal government, with about 56% saying they supported the effort and 40% opposed. Their views broke down along party lines, with 89% of Republicans but just 26% of Democrats supportive.

    Some agencies whose downsizing plans had been put on hold said they would resume advancing those efforts.

    “We will continue to move forward with our historic reorganization plan,” the State Department, which has proposed laying off nearly 2,000 employees, said on X.

    DOGE CUTS

    Upon taking office in January, Trump launched a massive campaign to cut the 2.3-million strong federal civilian workforce, led by billionaire Elon Musk and his Department of Government Efficiency.

    Musk and his mostly young lieutenants immediately moved into key government agencies, fired workers, gained access to government computer systems and virtually shuttered two agencies – the U.S. Agency for International Development and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.

    Trump and Musk said the bloated federal bureaucracy needed to be downsized. Federal workers’ unions and most Democrats say the cuts so far, and the plans for further mass layoffs, have been carried out haphazardly, leading to chaos inside many agencies and threatening important public services such as the processing of Social Security claims.

    By late April, about 100 days into the effort, the government overhaul had resulted in the firing, resignations and early retirements of 260,000 civil servants, according to a Reuters tally.

    Liberal Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson was the sole member of the nine-person court to publicly dissent from Tuesday’s decision, criticizing the “court’s demonstrated enthusiasm for greenlighting this president’s legally dubious actions in an emergency posture.”

    Tuesday’s decision extended Trump’s winning record at the Supreme Court since taking office. The court has let Trump’s administration resume deporting migrants to countries other than their own without offering them a chance to show the harms they could face and end temporary legal status previously granted on humanitarian grounds to hundreds of thousands of migrants.

    In addition, it has allowed Trump to implement his ban on transgender people in the U.S. military, blocked a judge’s order that the administration rehire thousands of fired employees and curbed the power of federal judges to impose nationwide rulings impeding presidential policies.

    Most of these decisions have been issued as emergency orders, known colloquially as the shadow docket, that respond to applications for immediate action from the court.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Money Market Operations as on July 08, 2025

    Source: Reserve Bank of India
    (Amount in ₹ crore, Rate in Per cent)
      Volume
    (One Leg)    		 Weighted
    Average Rate    		 Range
    A. Overnight Segment (I+II+III+IV) 5,95,739.88 5.15 4.00-6.25
         I. Call Money 18,712.20 5.26 4.50-5.35
         II. Triparty Repo 3,90,353.65 5.13 5.09-5.27
         III. Market Repo 1,84,543.48 5.19 4.00-5.40
         IV. Repo in Corporate Bond 2,130.55 5.41 5.35-6.25
    B. Term Segment      
         I. Notice Money** 128.40 5.19 4.90-5.27
         II. Term Money@@ 847.00 – 5.35-5.75
         III. Triparty Repo 3,274.10 5.23 5.12-5.26
         IV. Market Repo 0.00 – –
         V. Repo in Corporate Bond 0.00 – –
      Auction Date Tenor (Days) Maturity Date Amount Current Rate /
    Cut off Rate
    C. Liquidity Adjustment Facility (LAF), Marginal Standing Facility (MSF) & Standing Deposit Facility (SDF)
    I. Today’s Operations
    1. Fixed Rate          
    2. Variable Rate&          
      (I) Main Operation          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (II) Fine Tuning Operations          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
    3. MSF# Tue, 08/07/2025 1 Wed, 09/07/2025 1,072.00 5.75
    4. SDFΔ# Tue, 08/07/2025 1 Wed, 09/07/2025 2,14,021.00 5.25
    5. Net liquidity injected from today’s operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*       -2,12,949.00  
    II. Outstanding Operations
    1. Fixed Rate          
    2. Variable Rate&          
      (I) Main Operation          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (II) Fine Tuning Operations          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo Fri, 04/07/2025 7 Fri, 11/07/2025 1,00,010.00 5.47
    3. MSF#          
    4. SDFΔ#          
    D. Standing Liquidity Facility (SLF) Availed from RBI$       5,747.11  
    E. Net liquidity injected from outstanding operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*     -94,262.89  
    F. Net liquidity injected (outstanding including today’s operations) [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*     -3,07,211.89  
    G. Cash Reserves Position of Scheduled Commercial Banks
         (i) Cash balances with RBI as on July 08, 2025 9,38,848.80  
         (ii) Average daily cash reserve requirement for the fortnight ending July 11, 2025 9,52,318.00  
    H. Government of India Surplus Cash Balance Reckoned for Auction as on¥ July 08, 2025 0.00  
    I. Net durable liquidity [surplus (+)/deficit (-)] as on June 13, 2025 5,62,116.00  
    @ Based on Reserve Bank of India (RBI) / Clearing Corporation of India Limited (CCIL).
    – Not Applicable / No Transaction.
    ** Relates to uncollateralized transactions of 2 to 14 days tenor.
    @@ Relates to uncollateralized transactions of 15 days to one year tenor.
    $ Includes refinance facilities extended by RBI.
    & As per the Press Release No. 2019-2020/1900 dated February 06, 2020.
    Δ As per the Press Release No. 2022-2023/41 dated April 08, 2022.
    * Net liquidity is calculated as Repo+MSF+SLF-Reverse Repo-SDF.
    ¥ As per the Press Release No. 2014-2015/1971 dated March 19, 2015.
    # As per the Press Release No. 2023-2024/1548 dated December 27, 2023.
    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    
    Press Release: 2025-2026/678

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: XFG could become the next dominant COVID variant. Here’s what to know about ‘Stratus’

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Paul Griffin, Professor, Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, The University of Queensland

    visualspace/Getty Images

    Given the number of times this has happened already, it should come as little surprise that we’re now faced with yet another new subvariant of SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID.

    This new subvariant is known as XFG (nicknamed “Stratus”) and the World Health Organization (WHO) designated it a “variant under monitoring” in late June. XFG is a subvariant of Omicron, of which there are now more than 1,000.

    A “variant under monitoring” signifies a variant or subvariant which needs prioritised attention and monitoring due to characteristics that may pose an additional threat compared to other circulating variants.

    XFG was one of seven variants under monitoring as of June 25. The most recent addition before XFG was NB.1.8.1 (nicknamed “Nimbus”), which the WHO declared a variant under monitoring on May 23.

    Both nimbus and stratus are types of clouds.

    Nimbus is currently the dominant subvariant worldwide – but Stratus is edging closer. So what do you need to know about Stratus, or XFG?

    A recombinant variant

    XFG is a recombinant of LF.7 and LP.8.1.2 which means these two subvariants have shared genetic material to come up with the new subvariant. Recombinants are designated with an X at the start of their name.

    While recombination and other spontaneous changes happen often with SARS-CoV-2, it becomes a problem when it creates a subvariant that is changed in such a way that its properties cause more problems for us.

    Most commonly this means the virus looks different enough that protection from past infection (and vaccination) doesn’t work so well, called immune evasion. This basically means the population becomes more susceptible and can lead to an increase in cases, and even a whole new wave of COVID infections across the world.

    XFG has four key mutations in the spike protein, a protein on the surface of SARS-CoV-2 which allows it to attach to our cells. Some are believed to enhance evasion by certain antibodies.

    Early laboratory studies have suggested a nearly two-fold reduction in how well antibodies block the virus compared to LP.8.1.1.

    Where is XFG spreading?

    The earliest XFG sample was collected on January 27.

    As of June 22, there were 1,648 XFG sequences submitted to GISAID from 38 countries (GISAID is the global database used to track the prevalence of different variants around the world). This represents 22.7% of the globally available sequences at the time.

    This was a significant rise from 7.4% four weeks prior and only just below the proportion of NB.1.8.1 at 24.9%. Given the now declining proportion of viral sequences of NB.1.8.1 overall, and the rapid rise of XFG, it would seem reasonable to expect XFG to become dominant very soon.

    According to Australian data expert Mike Honey, the countries showing the highest rates of detection of XFG as of mid-June include India at more than 50%, followed by Spain at 42%, and the United Kingdom and United States, where the subvariant makes up more than 30% of cases.

    In Australia as of June 29, NB.1.8.1 was the dominant subvariant, accounting for 48.6% of sequences. In the most recent report from Australia’s national genomic surveillance platform, there were 24 XFG sequences with 12 collected in the last 28 days meaning it currently comprises approximately 5% of sequences.

    The big questions

    When we talk about a new subvariant, people often ask questions including if it’s more severe or causes new or different symptoms compared to previous variants. But we’re still learning about XFG and we can’t answer these questions with certainty yet.

    Some sources have reported XFG may be more likely to course “hoarseness” or a scratchy or raspy voice. But we need more information to know if this association is truly significant.

    Notably, there’s no evidence to suggest XFG causes more severe illness compared to other variants in circulation or that it is necessarily any more transmissible.

    Will vaccines still work against XFG?

    Relatively frequent changes to the virus means we have continued to update the COVID vaccines. The most recent update, which targets the JN.1 subvariant, became available in Australia from late 2024. XFG is a descendant of the JN.1 subvariant.

    Fortunately, based on the evidence available so far, currently approved COVID vaccines are expected to remain effective against XFG, particularly against symptomatic and severe disease.

    Because of SARS-CoV-2’s continued evolution, the effect of this on our immune response, as well as the fact protection from COVID vaccines declines over time, COVID vaccines are offered regularly, and recommended for those at the highest risk.

    One of the major challenges we face at present in Australia is low COVID vaccine uptake. While rates have increased somewhat recently, they remain relatively low, with only 32.3% of people aged 75 years and over having received a vaccine in the past six months. Vaccination rates in younger age groups are significantly lower.

    Although the situation with XFG must continue to be monitored, at present the WHO has assessed the global risk posed by this subvariant as low. The advice for combating COVID remains unchanged, including vaccination as recommended and the early administration of antivirals for those who are eligible.

    Measures to reduce the risk of transmission, particularly wearing masks in crowded indoor settings and focusing on air quality and ventilation, are worth remembering to protect against COVID and other viral infections.

    Paul Griffin has been the principal investigator for clinical trials of 8 COVID-19 vaccines. He has previously participated in medical advisory boards for COVID-19 vaccines. Paul Griffin is a director and medical advisory board member of the immunisation coalition.

    – ref. XFG could become the next dominant COVID variant. Here’s what to know about ‘Stratus’ – https://theconversation.com/xfg-could-become-the-next-dominant-covid-variant-heres-what-to-know-about-stratus-260499

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • India, Brazil sign six key pacts with focus on terror, trade, and tech

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India and Brazil signed six agreements on Tuesday during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit, covering cooperation in security, digital infrastructure, renewable energy, agriculture, and intellectual property.

    The agreements include a pact on combating international terrorism and transnational organized crime, as well as a memorandum on the exchange of large-scale digital solutions to support digital transformation.

    Both countries also agreed to collaborate in renewable energy and agricultural research, with an MoU signed between Brazil’s EMBRAPA and India’s Council of Agricultural Research.

    An agreement was also signed for the exchange and mutual protection of classified information.

    Additionally, the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) of India and Brazil’s Secretariat of Competitiveness and Regulatory Policy under the Ministry of Development, Industry, Trade and Services signed an MoU on cooperation in the field of intellectual property.

    India and Brazil also announced the establishment of a ministerial-level mechanism to monitor trade, commerce, and investment between the two countries.

  • India–Brazil bilateral trade to touch $20 billion over next five years: PM Modi in Brasilia

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said India and Brazil will work to expand cooperation in trade, clean energy, defence, Artificial Intelligence, and digital public infrastructure, underlining that both countries share a common vision for inclusive development and a people-centric approach to innovation.

    Speaking at a joint press statement alongside Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, PM Modi expressed his gratitude for being conferred with Brazil’s highest national honour — ‘The Grand Collar of the National Order of the Southern Cross’.

    “Today, being honoured with Brazil’s highest national award by the President of Brazil is a moment of great pride and emotion not just for me, but for 140 crore Indians. I sincerely thank the President, the Brazilian government, and the people of Brazil for this honour,” PM Modi said.

    Calling President Lula his “best friend” and “Chief Architect of the Strategic Partnership between India and Brazil,” the PM said every meeting with him has motivated him to work harder for the well-being of both nations. “I dedicate this honour to his strong commitment to India and to our enduring friendship,” he said.

    Trade and energy cooperation

    PM Modi said India and Brazil have agreed to raise bilateral trade to USD 20 billion over the next five years. “Football is Brazil’s passion, just as cricket is loved by the people of India. Whether it’s sending the ball past the boundary or into the goal, when both are on the same team, a USD 20 billion partnership is not difficult to achieve,” he said, adding that both sides will also work to expand the India–MERCOSUR Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA).

    The Prime Minister stressed that cooperation in the energy sector was steadily growing and highlighted the new agreement signed to boost collaboration on clean energy and sustainable development.

    PM Modi also extended best wishes to Lula for the upcoming COP-30 Summit to be hosted by Brazil later this year.

    Defence, AI and digital linkages

    On defence ties, PM Modi said, “Our growing cooperation in the field of defence reflects the deep mutual trust between our two countries. We will continue our efforts to connect our defence industries and strengthen this partnership further.”

    He pointed to ongoing collaboration in Artificial Intelligence and supercomputing, describing it as part of the shared goal of “inclusive development and human-centric innovation.” India’s UPI digital payments platform is also set to be adopted in Brazil, the PM said, adding that India would gladly share its experience in digital public infrastructure and space technology.

    Health, Ayurveda and people-to-people ties

    Highlighting ties in agriculture and health, PM Modi noted that cooperation in agriculture and animal husbandry spans several decades, and both sides are now working together in agricultural research and food processing too. “In the health sector too, we are enhancing our win-win collaboration. We have also emphasized the expansion of Ayurveda and traditional medicine in Brazil,” he said.

    Underscoring the importance of people-to-people connections, the Prime Minister said that the shared passion for sports — cricket and football — brings India and Brazil closer. “We wish for India–Brazil relations to be as vibrant as Carnival, as passionate as football, and as heart-connecting as Samba — all without the long visa counter queues! With this spirit, we will work together to ease people-to-people exchanges between our two nations, especially for tourists, students, sportspersons, and businessmen,” he said.

    On global issues

    PM Modi said India and Brazil have always worked in close coordination on global issues and stressed that their partnership is relevant to the Global South and the wider world. “We firmly believe that it is our moral responsibility to bring the concerns and priorities of the Global South to the forefront of the global stage,” he said.

    Calling for disputes to be resolved through “dialogue and diplomacy,” the PM said the India–Brazil partnership stands as an “important pillar of stability and balance” amid global tensions and uncertainty. He also reiterated both nations’ “zero tolerance and zero double standards” approach on terrorism, saying, “We strongly oppose both terrorism and those who support it.”

    The Prime Minister also extended an invitation to Lula to visit India and said, “Once again, on behalf of 1.4 billion Indians, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to you for this highest national honour and for your enduring friendship.”

    Earlier in the day, Lula welcomed PM Modi at the Alvorada Palace in Brasilia, where he was given a ceremonial reception featuring a 114-horse escort for his car. The two leaders then held a restricted-format meeting, followed by delegation-level discussions and the signing of agreements.

  • PM Modi’s Brazil visit: Terror, trade, tech on focus as India, Brazil ink six key pacts

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India and Brazil signed six agreements on Tuesday during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit, covering cooperation in security, digital infrastructure, renewable energy, agriculture, and intellectual property.

    The agreements include a pact on combating international terrorism and transnational organized crime, as well as a memorandum on the exchange of large-scale digital solutions to support digital transformation.

    Both countries also agreed to collaborate in renewable energy and agricultural research, with an MoU signed between Brazil’s EMBRAPA and India’s Council of Agricultural Research.

    An agreement was also signed for the exchange and mutual protection of classified information.

    Additionally, the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) of India and Brazil’s Secretariat of Competitiveness and Regulatory Policy under the Ministry of Development, Industry, Trade and Services signed an MoU on cooperation in the field of intellectual property.

    India and Brazil also announced the creation of a ministerial-level mechanism to monitor trade, commerce, and investment between the two countries.

  • PM Modi shares highlights of meetings with Chile President, UN Chief and Rousseff at BRICS

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday shared glimpses of his meetings with key international figures — including Chilean President Gabriel Boric Font, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and former Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff — held on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro.

    Sharing details about his meeting with Chilean President Gabriel Boric Font, PM Modi highlighted the growing friendship between the two nations.

    “Delighted to have met President Gabriel Boric Font of Chile during the Rio BRICS Summit. India-Chile friendship is getting stronger and stronger!” PM Modi said in a post on X.

    https://x.com/narendramodi/status/1942569161743556985

    In April, the Chilean President paid a state visit to India accompanied by a high-level delegation, including ministers, Members of Parliament, senior officials, business associations, media and prominent Chileans involved in the India-Chile cultural connect.

    During that visit, which marked 76 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries, both leaders discussed in detail the historic diplomatic ties established in 1949, growing trade linkages, people-to-people connections, cultural exchanges and the warm and cordial bilateral relations. They also expressed their desire to further expand and deepen the multifaceted relationship in all areas of mutual interest.

    PM Modi also met United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres in Rio de Janeiro on Monday.

    Taking to X, PM Modi said, “Interacted with Mr. António Guterres, UN Secretary-General, on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro yesterday.”

    https://x.com/narendramodi/status/1942568681692893508

    India’s deepening engagement with the UN is based on its steadfast commitment to multilateralism and dialogue as the keys to achieving shared goals and addressing common global challenges, including peacebuilding and peacekeeping, sustainable development, poverty eradication, environment, climate change, terrorism, disarmament, human rights, health and pandemics, migration, cyber security, space and frontier technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, and comprehensive reform of the United Nations, including reform of the Security Council.

    PM Modi also shared details about his productive conversation with former Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff, who now heads the New Development Bank (NDB).

    Rousseff was in Rio de Janeiro to celebrate the progress made by the ‘BRICS Bank’ and discuss reforms of global financial institutions within the BRICS framework.

    “Productive interaction with Dilma Rousseff, President of the New Development Bank and former President of Brazil,” the Prime Minister said on X.

    https://x.com/narendramodi/status/1942569414353703136

    Earlier in the day, Lula welcomed PM Modi at the Alvorada Palace in Brasilia, where he was given a ceremonial reception featuring a 114-horse escort for his car. The two leaders then held a restricted-format meeting, followed by delegation-level discussions and the signing of agreements.

    —IANS

  • India launches first phase of BIMSTEC cancer care capacity-building programme in Mumbai

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India on Monday launched the first phase of the BIMSTEC cancer care capacity-building program, an initiative aimed at strengthening regional cooperation in the fight against cancer among BIMSTEC nations.

    The programme, jointly organised by the Ministry of External Affairs and the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), was inaugurated at the Tata Memorial Centre in Mumbai on July 7.

    The capacity-building initiative forms part of the 21-point Action Plan for BIMSTEC cooperation announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the 6th BIMSTEC Summit held in Bangkok.

    Dr A.K. Mohanty, Secretary, Department of Atomic Energy, formally launched the first phase of the program. A total of 21 participants from BIMSTEC member countries will undergo a comprehensive four-week training in Radiation Oncology, Nuclear Medicine, and Radiology.

    Aligned with India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy, the program is expected to pave the way for deeper collaboration in the crucial area of cancer care and help address the growing healthcare challenges faced by people across the BIMSTEC region.

  • PM Modi departs for Namibia after concluding Brazil visit

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday departed for Namibia after concluding his two-day visit to Brazil, where he attended the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro and held wide-ranging discussions with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.

    PM Modi is on a five-nation visit, with Namibia being his final stop.

    In a post on X, the Prime Minister said, “Held fruitful talks with President Lula, who has always been passionate about the India-Brazil friendship. Our talks included ways to deepen trade ties and diversify bilateral trade. We both agree that there is immense scope for such linkages to thrive in the coming times.”

    “Clean energy, sustainable development and overcoming climate change were also prominent topics of discussion. Other areas where we will work even more closely include defence, security, AI and agriculture. India-Brazil cooperation in space, semiconductors and DPI will benefit our people,” PM Modi added.

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pittsburg County Resident Sentenced For Possessing An Unregistered Explosive Device

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Jerry Brandon Pearce, age 56, of Indianola, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 25 months in prison for one count of Possession of an Unregistered Firearm (Destructive Device).

    The charge arose from an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

    On November 25, 2024, Pearce pleaded guilty to possessing an explosive device not registered to him in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record.  According to investigators, on September 4, 2023, law enforcement responded to blast reports at Pearce’s residence.  There, agents encountered Pearce and two bystanders suffering injuries from a detonated grenade.  An investigation of the blast site revealed that Pearce had modified the unregistered explosive before accidentally setting it off, and that Pearce also possessed assembly components for building additional grenades.

    “This case underscores the serious danger posed by illegal and unregistered explosive devices,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Bennie Mims.  “Thanks to the swift response and thorough investigation by our law enforcement partners, a potentially deadly situation was contained before further harm occurred.  Our office remains committed to prosecuting those who violate federal firearms laws and to supporting initiatives like Project Safe Neighborhoods that protect our communities from violent crime.”

    “Pearce’s actions were egregious and could have been fatal,” said United States Attorney Christopher J. Wilson.  “Pearce put his own interests ahead of the safety of the community and caused immense harm.  Such caustic conduct cannot and will not be tolerated.”

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.  On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    The Honorable Ronald A. White, Chief U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing.   Pearce will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Richard J. Lorenz and Jacob R. Parker represented the United States.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Murder Suspects Arrested in Memphis by U.S. Marshals

    Source: US Marshals Service

    Memphis, TN – The U.S. Marshals (USMS) Two Rivers Violent Fugitive Task Force (TRVFTF) arrested 1st degree murder suspect Kemarion Ward, age 19, in Memphis, Tennessee today. In an unrelated case they also arrested Thaddius Brown, age 29, for Murder 2.

    On December 10, 2023, Germaniee Stephens was found shot to death in Indianola, Mississippi. Sunflower County, Mississippi, issued an arrest warrant for Kemarion Ward on January 24, 2024, for this crime. The fugitive investigation was adopted on February 9, 2024, by the U.S. Marshals Gulf Coast Regional Fugitive Task Force, Oxford, Mississippi office.

    It came to light that Ward was in the Memphis, Tennessee area. The Gulf Coast Task Force immediately began working with the U.S. Marshals Two Rivers Violent Fugitive Task Force. The Two Rivers Task Force went to a residence in the 3100 block of Duke Ellington Avenue in Memphis, Tennessee. Ward was found there and taken into custody without incident. At the time of this release, he is at the Shelby County Detention Center awaiting extradition.

    The U.S. Marshals New York/New Jersey Regional Fugitive Task Force based out of Brooklyn, New York, began a fugitive investigation on Thaddius Brown on June 24, 2025. Brown was wanted by New York for Murder 2. When the investigation revealed that Brown had fled to the Memphis area, investigators with the New York/New Jersey Task Force traveled to Memphis and joined hands with the Two Rivers Task Force to locate the fugitive.

    Approximately one hour after Ward was taken into custody, members of the Two Rivers Task Force located Brown at a residence at the 6400 block of Crossbrook. He was taken into custody without incident and at the time of this release awaits extradition at the Shelby County Detention Center back to New York City.

    The U.S. Marshals Service Two Rivers Violent Fugitive Task Force is a multi-agency task force within Western Tennessee. The TRVFTF has offices in Memphis and Jackson, and its membership is primarily composed of Deputy U.S. Marshals, Shelby, Fayette, Tipton, and Gibson County Sheriff’s Deputies, Memphis and Jackson Police Officers, Tennessee Department of Correction Special Agents and the Tennessee Highway Patrol. Since 2021, the TRVFTF has captured over 3,000 violent offenders and sexual predators.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • Rampant Alcaraz eases past Norrie, marches into Wimbledon semis

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Carlos Alcaraz had warned that facing Cameron Norrie could be a nightmare. For a fleeting moment on Tuesday, it looked like the defending Wimbledon champion might be in for a fright.

    The Spaniard stumbled early, trailing 0-40 in his opening service game on Centre Court. Any chance of an upset, however, was swiftly dashed as Alcaraz roared to a commanding 6-2 6-3 6-3 quarter-final victory — one that should send a shudder down the spine of anyone hoping to dethrone him.

    With hundreds of empty seats at the start — fans still trickling back after Aryna Sabalenka’s drawn-out quarter-final — Alcaraz wasted no time asserting his dominance.

    By the time the crowd returned to rally behind Britain’s last remaining singles hope, the second seed had blazed through the first set in 28 minutes, dazzling with his trademark blend of power and flair.

    Norrie, unseeded and unorthodox, did his best to resist. He even raised his arms in mock celebration after holding serve late in the third set.

    But the outcome was never in doubt. Alcaraz, now on a 23-match winning streak, was simply too good.

    Alcaraz’s eighth Grand Slam semi-final will be against American Taylor Fritz but before he continues his quest for a third successive Wimbledon title he has two days off owing to the All England Club schedule.

    He would probably prefer to get straight back on court, such is the momentum he is building. When asked how he would use the time, one wag in the crowd suggested he could return to the Ibiza, the Balearic party island where he let his hair down after his second successive French Open title last month.

    MORE SEDATE

    A beaming Alcaraz said something more sedate would suffice.

    “I might try to go to the city centre if I have time. I want to play some golf with my team which will be fun,” he said.

    “What I have been doing so far has worked so we will try to switch off together.”

    Former semi-finalist Norrie was the second British player Alcaraz has faced during this year’s tournament having seen off qualifier Oliver Tarvet in the second round.

    Tarvet stretched him far more than left-hander Norrie, but that was during a first week in which the five-times Grand Slam champion was working through the gears.

    Any hope Norrie had of becoming only the third British player to knock out the defending Wimbledon men’s champion were soon extinguished by the Spanish force of nature.

    Having failed to convert four break points in the second game, Norrie gifted away his serve with double-fault and two games later his tentative volley allowed Alcaraz to wind up a ferocious dipping forehand that smacked the baseline.

    Alcaraz had blown a hot and cold in his previous matches, but it is now the business end of the tournament and the rest of the match became a procession as he wrapped up his 34th win from 37 matches he has played on grass.

    “To be able to play another semi-final here at Wimbledon is really special,” Alcaraz said. “I want to go as far as I can and I am really happy with the level I played today against a really difficult player like Cam.”

    -Reuters

  • India–Brazil bilateral trade to touch $20 million over next five years: PM Modi in Brasilia

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said India and Brazil will work to expand cooperation in trade, clean energy, defence, Artificial Intelligence, and digital public infrastructure, underlining that both countries share a common vision for inclusive development and a people-centric approach to innovation.

    Speaking at a joint press statement alongside Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, PM Modi expressed his gratitude for being conferred with Brazil’s highest national honour — ‘The Grand Collar of the National Order of the Southern Cross’.

    “Today, being honoured with Brazil’s highest national award by the President of Brazil is a moment of great pride and emotion not just for me, but for 140 crore Indians. I sincerely thank the President, the Brazilian government, and the people of Brazil for this honour,” PM Modi said.

    Calling President Lula his “best friend” and “Chief Architect of the Strategic Partnership between India and Brazil,” the PM said every meeting with him has motivated him to work harder for the well-being of both nations. “I dedicate this honour to his strong commitment to India and to our enduring friendship,” he said.

    Trade and energy cooperation

    PM Modi said India and Brazil have agreed to raise bilateral trade to USD 20 billion over the next five years. “Football is Brazil’s passion, just as cricket is loved by the people of India. Whether it’s sending the ball past the boundary or into the goal, when both are on the same team, a USD 20 billion partnership is not difficult to achieve,” he said, adding that both sides will also work to expand the India–MERCOSUR Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA).

    The Prime Minister stressed that cooperation in the energy sector was steadily growing and highlighted the new agreement signed to boost collaboration on clean energy and sustainable development.

    PM Modi also extended best wishes to Lula for the upcoming COP-30 Summit to be hosted by Brazil later this year.

    Defence, AI and digital linkages

    On defence ties, PM Modi said, “Our growing cooperation in the field of defence reflects the deep mutual trust between our two countries. We will continue our efforts to connect our defence industries and strengthen this partnership further.”

    He pointed to ongoing collaboration in Artificial Intelligence and supercomputing, describing it as part of the shared goal of “inclusive development and human-centric innovation.” India’s UPI digital payments platform is also set to be adopted in Brazil, the PM said, adding that India would gladly share its experience in digital public infrastructure and space technology.

    Health, Ayurveda and people-to-people ties

    Highlighting ties in agriculture and health, PM Modi noted that cooperation in agriculture and animal husbandry spans several decades, and both sides are now working together in agricultural research and food processing too. “In the health sector too, we are enhancing our win-win collaboration. We have also emphasized the expansion of Ayurveda and traditional medicine in Brazil,” he said.

    Underscoring the importance of people-to-people connections, the Prime Minister said that the shared passion for sports — cricket and football — brings India and Brazil closer. “We wish for India–Brazil relations to be as vibrant as Carnival, as passionate as football, and as heart-connecting as Samba — all without the long visa counter queues! With this spirit, we will work together to ease people-to-people exchanges between our two nations, especially for tourists, students, sportspersons, and businessmen,” he said.

    On global issues

    PM Modi said India and Brazil have always worked in close coordination on global issues and stressed that their partnership is relevant to the Global South and the wider world. “We firmly believe that it is our moral responsibility to bring the concerns and priorities of the Global South to the forefront of the global stage,” he said.

    Calling for disputes to be resolved through “dialogue and diplomacy,” the PM said the India–Brazil partnership stands as an “important pillar of stability and balance” amid global tensions and uncertainty. He also reiterated both nations’ “zero tolerance and zero double standards” approach on terrorism, saying, “We strongly oppose both terrorism and those who support it.”

    The Prime Minister also extended an invitation to Lula to visit India and said, “Once again, on behalf of 1.4 billion Indians, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to you for this highest national honour and for your enduring friendship.”

    Earlier in the day, Lula welcomed PM Modi at the Alvorada Palace in Brasilia, where he was given a ceremonial reception featuring a 114-horse escort for his car. The two leaders then held a restricted-format meeting, followed by delegation-level discussions and the signing of agreements.

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Apple announces chief operating officer transition

    Source: Apple

    Headline: Apple announces chief operating officer transition

    July 8, 2025

    PRESS RELEASE

    Apple announces chief operating officer transition

    CUPERTINO, CALIFORNIA Apple today announced Jeff Williams will transition his role as chief operating officer later this month to Sabih Khan, Apple’s senior vice president of Operations as part of a long-planned succession. Williams will continue reporting to Apple CEO Tim Cook and overseeing Apple’s world class design team and Apple Watch alongside the company’s Heath initiatives. Apple’s design team will then transition to reporting directly to Cook after Williams retires late in the year.

    “Jeff and I have worked alongside each other for as long as I can remember, and Apple wouldn’t be what it is without him. He’s helped to create one of the most respected global supply chains in the world; launched Apple Watch and overseen its development; architected Apple’s health strategy; and led our world class team of designers with great wisdom, heart, and dedication,” said Tim Cook, Apple’s CEO. “I am and will always be beyond grateful for his numerous contributions to Apple over the years and his loyal friendship. Jeff’s true legacy can be seen in the amazing team he’s created and, while he’ll be greatly missed, he leaves the work of the future in incredible hands.”

    “Sabih is a brilliant strategist who has been one of the central architects of Apple’s supply chain,” said Tim Cook, Apple’s CEO. “While overseeing Apple’s supply chain, he has helped pioneer new technologies in advanced manufacturing, overseen the expansion of Apple’s manufacturing footprint in the United States, and helped ensure that Apple can be nimble in response to global challenges. He has advanced our ambitious efforts in environmental sustainability, helping reduce Apple’s carbon footprint by more than 60 percent. Above all, Sabih leads with his heart and his values, and I know he will make an exceptional chief operating officer.”

    Khan has been at Apple for 30 years and joined the executive team as senior vice president of Operations in 2019. He has been in charge of Apple’s global supply chain for the past six years, ensuring product quality and overseeing planning, procurement, manufacturing, logistics, and product fulfillment functions, as well as Apple’s supplier responsibility programs that protect and educate workers at production facilities around the world. The team also supports Apple’s environmental initiatives by partnering with suppliers to propel green manufacturing, helping conserve resources and protect the planet.

    During his career with Apple, Williams built out a supply chain that has supported Apple’s growth and customers around the world with expansion, including the United States, China, India, Japan, and across Southeast Asia. He led Apple’s supplier responsibility efforts which has helped raise the bar for workers around the world, offering critical training and important education programs. Williams played a key role in the introduction of iPod and iPhone programs. He led the effort on Apple Watch over a decade ago and architected the company’s health strategy, helping customers live healthier lives, learn more about their health, and receive lifesaving care. For the past several years, Williams has also overseen Apple’s industry-leading design team.

    “I have a deep love for Apple. Working with all of the amazing people at this company has been a privilege of a lifetime, and I can’t thank Tim enough for the opportunity, his inspirational leadership, and our friendship over the years,” said Williams. “June marked my 27th anniversary with Apple, and my 40th in the industry. Beginning next year, I plan to spend more time with friends and family, including five grandchildren and counting. I’ve had the pleasure of working closely with Sabih for 27 years and I think he’s the most talented operations executive on the planet. I have tremendous confidence in Apple’s future under his leadership in this role.”

    Before joining Apple’s procurement group in 1995, Khan worked as an applications development engineer and key account technical leader at GE Plastics. He earned bachelor’s degrees in economics and mechanical engineering from Tufts University and a master’s degree in mechanical engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.

    About Apple Apple revolutionized personal technology with the introduction of the Macintosh in 1984. Today, Apple leads the world in innovation with iPhone, iPad, Mac, AirPods, Apple Watch, and Apple Vision Pro. Apple’s six software platforms — iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, visionOS, and tvOS — provide seamless experiences across all Apple devices and empower people with breakthrough services including the App Store, Apple Music, Apple Pay, iCloud, and Apple TV+. Apple’s more than 150,000 employees are dedicated to making the best products on earth and to leaving the world better than we found it.

    Press Contact

    Josh Rosenstock

    Apple

    jrosenstock@apple.com

    Investor Relations Contact

    Suhasini Chandramouli

    Apple

    suhasini@apple.com

    (408) 974-3123

    © 2025 Apple Inc. All rights reserved. Apple and the Apple logo are trademarks of Apple. Other company and product names may be trademarks of their respective owners.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Apple announces chief operating officer transition

    Source: Apple

    Headline: Apple announces chief operating officer transition

    July 8, 2025

    PRESS RELEASE

    Apple announces chief operating officer transition

    CUPERTINO, CALIFORNIA Apple today announced Jeff Williams will transition his role as chief operating officer later this month to Sabih Khan, Apple’s senior vice president of Operations as part of a long-planned succession. Williams will continue reporting to Apple CEO Tim Cook and overseeing Apple’s world class design team and Apple Watch alongside the company’s Heath initiatives. Apple’s design team will then transition to reporting directly to Cook after Williams retires late in the year.

    “Jeff and I have worked alongside each other for as long as I can remember, and Apple wouldn’t be what it is without him. He’s helped to create one of the most respected global supply chains in the world; launched Apple Watch and overseen its development; architected Apple’s health strategy; and led our world class team of designers with great wisdom, heart, and dedication,” said Tim Cook, Apple’s CEO. “I am and will always be beyond grateful for his numerous contributions to Apple over the years and his loyal friendship. Jeff’s true legacy can be seen in the amazing team he’s created and, while he’ll be greatly missed, he leaves the work of the future in incredible hands.”

    “Sabih is a brilliant strategist who has been one of the central architects of Apple’s supply chain,” said Tim Cook, Apple’s CEO. “While overseeing Apple’s supply chain, he has helped pioneer new technologies in advanced manufacturing, overseen the expansion of Apple’s manufacturing footprint in the United States, and helped ensure that Apple can be nimble in response to global challenges. He has advanced our ambitious efforts in environmental sustainability, helping reduce Apple’s carbon footprint by more than 60 percent. Above all, Sabih leads with his heart and his values, and I know he will make an exceptional chief operating officer.”

    Khan has been at Apple for 30 years and joined the executive team as senior vice president of Operations in 2019. He has been in charge of Apple’s global supply chain for the past six years, ensuring product quality and overseeing planning, procurement, manufacturing, logistics, and product fulfillment functions, as well as Apple’s supplier responsibility programs that protect and educate workers at production facilities around the world. The team also supports Apple’s environmental initiatives by partnering with suppliers to propel green manufacturing, helping conserve resources and protect the planet.

    During his career with Apple, Williams built out a supply chain that has supported Apple’s growth and customers around the world with expansion, including the United States, China, India, Japan, and across Southeast Asia. He led Apple’s supplier responsibility efforts which has helped raise the bar for workers around the world, offering critical training and important education programs. Williams played a key role in the introduction of iPod and iPhone programs. He led the effort on Apple Watch over a decade ago and architected the company’s health strategy, helping customers live healthier lives, learn more about their health, and receive lifesaving care. For the past several years, Williams has also overseen Apple’s industry-leading design team.

    “I have a deep love for Apple. Working with all of the amazing people at this company has been a privilege of a lifetime, and I can’t thank Tim enough for the opportunity, his inspirational leadership, and our friendship over the years,” said Williams. “June marked my 27th anniversary with Apple, and my 40th in the industry. Beginning next year, I plan to spend more time with friends and family, including five grandchildren and counting. I’ve had the pleasure of working closely with Sabih for 27 years and I think he’s the most talented operations executive on the planet. I have tremendous confidence in Apple’s future under his leadership in this role.”

    Before joining Apple’s procurement group in 1995, Khan worked as an applications development engineer and key account technical leader at GE Plastics. He earned bachelor’s degrees in economics and mechanical engineering from Tufts University and a master’s degree in mechanical engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.

    About Apple Apple revolutionized personal technology with the introduction of the Macintosh in 1984. Today, Apple leads the world in innovation with iPhone, iPad, Mac, AirPods, Apple Watch, and Apple Vision Pro. Apple’s six software platforms — iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, visionOS, and tvOS — provide seamless experiences across all Apple devices and empower people with breakthrough services including the App Store, Apple Music, Apple Pay, iCloud, and Apple TV+. Apple’s more than 150,000 employees are dedicated to making the best products on earth and to leaving the world better than we found it.

    Press Contact

    Josh Rosenstock

    Apple

    jrosenstock@apple.com

    Investor Relations Contact

    Suhasini Chandramouli

    Apple

    suhasini@apple.com

    (408) 974-3123

    © 2025 Apple Inc. All rights reserved. Apple and the Apple logo are trademarks of Apple. Other company and product names may be trademarks of their respective owners.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • India–Brazil bilateral trade to touch $20 million by 2028: PM Modi in Brasilia

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said India and Brazil will work to expand cooperation in trade, clean energy, defence, Artificial Intelligence, and digital public infrastructure, underlining that both countries share a common vision for inclusive development and a people-centric approach to innovation.

    Speaking at a joint press statement alongside Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, PM Modi expressed his gratitude for being conferred with Brazil’s highest national honour — ‘The Grand Collar of the National Order of the Southern Cross’.

    “Today, being honoured with Brazil’s highest national award by the President of Brazil is a moment of great pride and emotion not just for me, but for 140 crore Indians. I sincerely thank the President, the Brazilian government, and the people of Brazil for this honour,” PM Modi said.

    Calling President Lula his “best friend” and “Chief Architect of the Strategic Partnership between India and Brazil,” the PM said every meeting with him has motivated him to work harder for the well-being of both nations. “I dedicate this honour to his strong commitment to India and to our enduring friendship,” he said.

    Trade and energy cooperation

    PM Modi said India and Brazil have agreed to raise bilateral trade to USD 20 billion over the next five years. “Football is Brazil’s passion, just as cricket is loved by the people of India. Whether it’s sending the ball past the boundary or into the goal, when both are on the same team, a USD 20 billion partnership is not difficult to achieve,” he said, adding that both sides will also work to expand the India–MERCOSUR Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA).

    The Prime Minister stressed that cooperation in the energy sector was steadily growing and highlighted the new agreement signed to boost collaboration on clean energy and sustainable development.

    PM Modi also extended best wishes to Lula for the upcoming COP-30 Summit to be hosted by Brazil later this year.

    Defence, AI and digital linkages

    On defence ties, PM Modi said, “Our growing cooperation in the field of defence reflects the deep mutual trust between our two countries. We will continue our efforts to connect our defence industries and strengthen this partnership further.”

    He pointed to ongoing collaboration in Artificial Intelligence and supercomputing, describing it as part of the shared goal of “inclusive development and human-centric innovation.” India’s UPI digital payments platform is also set to be adopted in Brazil, Modi said, adding that India would gladly share its experience in digital public infrastructure and space technology.

    Health, Ayurveda and people-to-people ties

    Highlighting ties in agriculture and health, the PM noted that cooperation in agriculture and animal husbandry spans several decades, and both sides are now working together in agricultural research and food processing too. “In the health sector too, we are enhancing our win-win collaboration. We have also emphasized the expansion of Ayurveda and traditional medicine in Brazil,” he said.

    Underscoring the importance of people-to-people connections, PM Modi said that the shared passion for sports — cricket and football — brings India and Brazil closer. “We wish for India–Brazil relations to be as vibrant as Carnival, as passionate as football, and as heart-connecting as Samba — all without the long visa counter queues! With this spirit, we will work together to ease people-to-people exchanges between our two nations, especially for tourists, students, sportspersons, and businessmen,” he said.

    On global issues

    The Prime Minister said India and Brazil have always worked in close coordination on global issues and stressed that their partnership is relevant to the Global South and the wider world. “We firmly believe that it is our moral responsibility to bring the concerns and priorities of the Global South to the forefront of the global stage,” he said.

    Calling for disputes to be resolved through “dialogue and diplomacy,” PM Modi said the India–Brazil partnership stands as an “important pillar of stability and balance” amid global tensions and uncertainty. He also reiterated both nations’ “zero tolerance and zero double standards” approach on terrorism, saying, “We strongly oppose both terrorism and those who support it.”

    The Prime Minister also extended an invitation to Lula to visit India and said, “Once again, on behalf of 1.4 billion Indians, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to you for this highest national honour and for your enduring friendship.”

    Earlier in the day, Lula welcomed PM Modi at the Alvorada Palace in Brasilia, where he was given a ceremonial reception featuring a 114-horse escort for his car. The two leaders then held a restricted-format meeting, followed by delegation-level discussions and the signing of agreements.

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gov. Pillen Speaks at National Rollout of USDA Farm Security Action Plan

    Source: US State of Nebraska

    . Pillen Speaks at National Rollout of USDA Farm Security Action Plan

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Governor Jim Pillen joined national and state leaders in Washington, D.C. for the national rollout of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Farm Security Action Plan – a new initiative focused on protecting America’s rural farms, food suppliers and ag interests.

    Addressing the crowd outside the USDA Whitten Building, Gov. Pillen highlighted his unique perspective as the first governor from Nebraska in 100 years to make his living from agriculture. Since entering office, Gov. Pillen has issued two executive orders and introduced several bills aimed at protecting the state’s property, infrastructure and other assets from the threat of foreign adversaries. He signed LB644 into law just last month – a comprehensive piece of legislation that among other things, bars companies associated with the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) from receiving Nebraska tax credits.

    At today’s event, speakers touched on the variety of emerging threats from China and other nations including land ownership near military installations, intellectual property theft, and bioterrorism. The seven-point plan unveiled today by the USDA was developed in response to the purchase of significant amounts of American farmland by people and companies connected to the CCP.  

    “Farm security equals food security, which equals national security,” said Gov. Pillen. “Thanks to these actions taken by President Trump and his team, we can further protect the backbone of Nebraska’s economy from foreign adversaries like China.”

    Additional speakers at today’s event, hosted by USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins, included Department of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, Attorney General Pam Bondi, White House Counselor Peter Navarro, Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (Alabama), U.S. Senator Roger Marshall (Kansas) and House Agriculture Committee Chairman G.T. Thompson.

    Gov. Pillen joined governors Lee, Huckabee Sanders and other speakers in complimenting the collective and coordinated effort by those in President Trump’s cabinet to provide solutions for better protecting rural farms – now and for future generations. 

    “It’s important that we continue to have the courage and the wisdom to never back down and to stand up and protect our land and protect our families. In agriculture, we risk everything we have every single day to put food on grocery store shelves,” said Gov. Pillen.

    The multi-agency plan contains seven action items, some of which are touched on in a letter to Sec. Rollins, signed by Gov. Pillen and other members of the America First Governors’ Council. In it, the group affirms its support of the Farm Security Action Plan saying:

    “Across the country, Chinese investors now control hundreds of thousands of acres of U.S. agricultural land, posing risks not just to local economies but to our food supply, water access, and national security. This is a coordinated, strategic effort by the CCP to weaken America from within and use our land as a Trojan horse. Washington’s past failures allowed this threat to metastasize. The previous administration was too compromised and entangled with CCP interests to act decisively. As a result, the American people paid the price. That era is over.”

    Signatories on the letter, in addition to Gov. Pillen, include Gov. Mike Braun, Indiana; Gov. Bill Lee, Tennessee; Gov. Brad Little, Idaho; Gov. Kim Reynolds, Iowa; Gov. Larry Rhoden, South Dakota; Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders, Arkansas; Gov. Kevin Stitt, Oklahoma; and former governors Phil Bryant, Mississippi; Bobby Jindal, Louisiana; and Rick Perry, Texas.

    A copy of the letter is included below.

    MIL OSI USA News –