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  • MIL-OSI Australia: Have you got a big idea for a city centre public activation?

    Source: New South Wales Ministerial News

    Turn your idea for a public activation into reality with a new City Centre Community Activation Grants program.

    Applications are now open, and community members are invited to submit public activation ideas that will be engaging and vibrant in the heart of Bendigo city centre.

    The City Centre Community Activation Grants program is open to individuals, businesses, or groups who live, work, or study in the Greater Bendigo region.

    The City of Greater Bendigo grants are available for small one-off activities, or a series of larger activities spread over the year (six in total). 
    The aim is to attract more people, more often to the city centre with a variety of public activations that encourage community and visitor engagement and support local creativity and innovation.

    So far this year, the City has curated and presented over 200 free activations in Hargreaves Mall for the community to enjoy, such as the popular Fiesta Street Party, school holiday program, music and family friendly fun activities.

    This grant program enables the community and creatives to lead and curate their own activities.

    Creative City Coordinator Maree Tonkin said this was a fantastic opportunity for the community and businesses to put forward their own ideas and be supported by the City Centre Community Activation Grants program.

    “This program hopes to attract diverse ideas and community-led activities to be hosted in the city centre,” Ms Tonkin said.

    “Hargreaves Mall is an ideal location with the new stage and lots of space to host art making, music, dance, performances, markets, cultural celebrations, business ideas, workshops, fashion, temporary pop-up art, augmented reality, technology-based work and much more. Other city centre locations will also be considered under the activation program.

    “We want to hear your big, clever and creative ideas that can be turned into vibrant and engaging activations for the public to enjoy.

    “We’re seeking activation proposals to take place throughout the year with a focus on school holidays and Saturdays. All temporary activations must be free for the public to attend and the content suitable for presentation in a public place.

    “Priority will be given to projects that champion access and inclusion, aim to increase community engagement and participation and are representative of the broad demographic mix in Greater Bendigo.

    “Our region prides itself on its vibrancy and creative reputation. To stimulate activity in the city centre, these grants complement the Hargreaves Mall Action Plan, adopted by Council in 2023, to encourage more people to visit the city centre to shop, eat and enjoy free public activations. 

    “The chosen projects will be selected by a panel and our Creative City staff will collaborate closely with successful applicants to facilitate planning, promotion and delivery of activations.”

    Selected projects must take place in Hargreaves Mall or other city centre locations before June 30, 2026.

    Priority will be given to ideas that boost community engagement and participation.

    Applications will close at 5pm, Monday August 4, 2025.

    MIL OSI News –

  • India-Croatia ties set to deepen as PM Modi heads to Zagreb

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday departed for Croatia after concluding his visit to Canada, where he participated in the 51st Group of Seven (G7) Summit in Kananaskis.
     
    This marks the first-ever visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Croatia, a significant milestone in the bilateral relationship between the two countries.
     
    India and Croatia share a cordial and steadily growing relationship underpinned by shared values, democratic institutions, and a common commitment to international cooperation. Since Croatia’s independence in the early 1990s, India has consistently supported the European nation’s sovereignty and development, with diplomatic relations evolving into a multi-dimensional partnership encompassing political dialogue, trade, culture, education, and people-to-people exchanges.
     
    Croatia, which joined the European Union in 2013, has in recent years emerged as an important partner for India in the Central European region. Its accession to the Schengen Area and adoption of the Euro in January 2023 have further aligned the country with key European institutions, creating fresh avenues for collaboration.
     
    Trade and investment trajectory
     
    Economic engagement between the two countries, while modest in scale, has shown incremental progress. In 2024, India’s exports to Croatia stood at USD 251.6 million, comprising a diverse basket of goods including ceramic and pharmaceutical products, engineering items, chemicals, and agricultural commodities such as oilseeds and tobacco. Croatia’s exports to India totalled USD 54.4 million, largely in the form of machinery, wood and paper products, rubber, and refined vegetable oils, including soybean oil.
     
    Between 2001 and 2023, Indian investments in Croatia reached €44.5 million, whereas Croatian investments in India stood at approximately €5.5 million over the same period. 
     
    People-to-people connect
     
    An important pillar of the bilateral relationship is the growing Indian diaspora in Croatia. As of March 2025, over 17,000 Indian nationals were residing in the country, including a small number of permanent residents and Overseas Citizens of India. Bilateral mobility has been aided by reciprocal arrangements such as visa-free travel for diplomatic and official passport holders for up to 30 days, facilitating greater high-level exchanges and official visits.
     
    Educational and cultural cooperation has also grown in recent years, with increased academic mobility, interest in Indian languages and traditions among Croatians, and rising Indian student enrolments in Croatian institutions.
     
    PM Modi’s visit is expected to lend new momentum to bilateral ties and provide an opportunity for both sides to chart a course for deeper engagement across political, economic, and cultural domains. 

  • Israeli tanks kill 59 people in Gaza crowd trying to get food aid, medics say

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Israeli tanks fired into a crowd trying to get aid from trucks in Gaza on Tuesday, killing at least 59 people, according to medics, in one of the bloodiest incidents yet in mounting violence as desperate residents struggle for food.

    Video shared on social media showed around a dozen mangled bodies lying in a street in Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip. The Israeli military, at war with Hamas-led Palestinian militants in Gaza since October 2023, acknowledged firing in the area and said it was looking into the incident.

    Witnesses interviewed by Reuters said Israeli tanks had launched at least two shells at a crowd of thousands who had gathered on the main eastern road through Khan Younis in the hope of obtaining food from aid trucks that use the route.

    “All of a sudden, they let us move forward and made everyone gather, and then shells started falling, tank shells,” said Alaa, an eyewitness, interviewed by Reuters at Nasser Hospital, where wounded victims lay sprawled on the floor and in corridors due to the lack of space.

    “No one is looking at these people with mercy. The people are dying, they are being torn apart, to get food for their children. Look at these people, all these people are torn to get flour to feed their children.”

    Palestinian medics said at least 59 people were killed and 221 wounded in the incident, at least 20 of them in critical condition. Casualties were being rushed into the hospital in civilian cars, rickshaws and donkey carts. It was the worst death toll in a single day since aid resumed in Gaza in May.

    In a statement, the Israel Defense Forces said: “Earlier today, a gathering was identified adjacent to an aid distribution truck that got stuck in the area of Khan Younis, and in proximity to IDF troops operating in the area.

    “The IDF is aware of reports regarding a number of injured individuals from IDF fire following the crowd’s approach. The details of the incident are under review. The IDF regrets any harm to uninvolved individuals and operates to minimise harm as much as possible to them while maintaining the safety of our troops.”

    Medics said at least 14 other people were also killed by Israeli gunfire and airstrikes elsewhere in the densely populated enclave, taking Tuesday’s overall death toll to at least 73.

    The health ministry said 397 Palestinians, among those trying to get food aid, had been killed and more than 3,000 were wounded since late May.

    The incident was the latest in nearly daily large-scale killings of Palestinians seeking aid in the three weeks since Israel partially lifted a total blockade on the territory it had imposed for nearly three months.

    Israel has been channelling much of the aid it is now allowing into Gaza through a new U.S.- and Israeli-backed group, the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, which operates a handful of distribution sites in areas guarded by Israeli forces.

    “The incident in question did not occur at a GHF site, but rather near a United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) location,” the foundation said of the incident on Tuesday.

    The United Nations rejects the GHF delivery system as inadequate, dangerous and a violation of humanitarian impartiality rules. Israel says it is needed to prevent Hamas fighters from diverting aid, which Hamas denies.

    Gaza authorities say hundreds of Palestinians have been killed trying to reach GHF sites.

    The GHF said in a press release late on Monday that it had distributed more than three million meals at its four distribution sites without incident.

    The Gaza war was triggered in October 2023, when Palestinian Hamas militants attacked Israel, killing 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages, according to Israeli allies. Israel’s subsequent military assault on Gaza has killed nearly 55,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza’s health ministry, while displacing nearly the entire population of 2.3 million and causing a hunger crisis.

    Since last week, Gaza Palestinians have kept an eye on the new air war between Israel and Iran, which has long been a major supporter of Hamas.

    Gaza residents have circulated images of buildings in Israel wrecked by Iranian missiles, some saying they are happy to see Israelis experiencing a measure of the fear of airstrikes that they have endured for 20 months.

    (Reuters)

  • Many flights to Indonesia’s Bali cancelled after volcano eruption

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Several flights to the Indonesian resort island of Bali were cancelled or delayed and the airport in Maumere in East Nusa Tenggara province was closed due to the eruption of Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki, officials said on Wednesday.

    Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki, which is in East Nusa Tenggara province, erupted on Tuesday, spewing ash 11 km (6.84 miles) high, forcing the country’s volcanology agency to raise the alert level to the highest.

    It erupted again on Wednesday morning, belching a 1 km (0.62 mile) high ash cloud, the agency said in a statement.

    Several international flights from India, Singapore and Australia to Bali were cancelled due to the eruption, the Bali international airport website showed.

    Singapore AirlinesSIAL.SI cancelled four flights between Bali’s Denpasar airport and Singapore, and its budget subsidiary Scoot cancelled flights to Bali and the neighbouring island Lombok, the airlines said.

    Qantas’ QAN.AX low-cost carrier JetStar cancelled several morning flights to Bali from Australia and expects afternoon flights to be delayed.

    “Forecasts show the ash cloud is expected to clear by later tonight,” JetStar said in a midday travel bulletin.

    The government closed the Fransiskus Xaverius Seda airport in Maumere from Wednesday until Thursday “to ensure the safety of the passengers,” said the airport operator AirNav in its Instagram post.

    The eruption also forced local authorities to evacuate dozens of residents living in two villages near the volcano, Avi Hallan, an official at the local disaster mitigation agency told Reuters.

    “Streets in the two villages were filled with thick ash, gravel, and sand,” she said, adding no casualties were reported.

    The volcano last erupted in May.

    Indonesia sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire, an area of high seismic activity atop multiple tectonic plates.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Secretary-General’s message on the International Day of Countering Hate Speech [scroll down for French version]

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    Hate speech is poison in the well of society. It has paved the way for violence and atrocity during the darkest chapters of human history. Ethnic and religious minorities often bear the brunt – facing discrimination, exclusion and harm.

    Today, as this year’s theme reminds us, hate speech travels faster and farther than ever, amplified by Artificial Intelligence. Biased algorithms and digital platforms are spreading toxic content and creating new spaces for harassment and abuse.

    The Global Digital Compact, adopted at the Summit of the Future, offers a path forward: calling for stronger international cooperation to tackle hate online, rooted in human rights and international law.

    To drown out the voices of hate, we need partnerships at every level: among governments, civil society, private companies and religious and community leaders. We need to counter toxic narratives with positive messaging and empower people to recognize, reject and stand up to hate speech. The United Nations Strategy and Plan of Action on Hate Speech guides the way.

    The Global Principles for Information Integrity that I launched last year are also supporting and informing these efforts, as we push for a safer and more humane information ecosystem.

    As we mark this day, let us commit to using Artificial Intelligence, not as a tool of hate, but as a force for good. Let us stand united in the pursuit of peace, mutual respect, and understanding for all.

    ***

    Les discours de haine empoisonnent la société. Ils ont mené à la violence et aux atrocités qui ont fait les chapitres les plus sombres de l’histoire de l’humanité. Les minorités ethniques et religieuses sont souvent les plus touchées, se heurtant à la discrimination, à l’exclusion et aux attaques.

    Aujourd’hui, comme nous le rappelle le thème de cette année, les discours de haine se propagent plus vite et plus loin que jamais, amplifiés par l’intelligence artificielle. Des algorithmes et des plateformes numériques intégrant et reproduisant les préjugés diffusent des contenus toxiques et créent de nouveaux espaces de harcèlement et de violence.

    Le Pacte numérique mondial, adopté lors du Sommet de l’avenir, nous montre le chemin : il encourage une plus grande coopération internationale pour lutter contre la haine en ligne, ancrée dans les droits humains et le droit international.

    Pour étouffer les voix de la haine, nous avons besoin de partenariats à tous les niveaux : entre les États, la société civile, les entreprises privées et les responsables religieux et communautaires. Nous devons contrer les récits toxiques par des messages positifs et donner à chacun et chacune les moyens de reconnaître les discours de haine, de ne pas y céder et de s’y opposer. La Stratégie et le Plan d’action des Nations Unies pour la lutte contre les discours de haine nous servent de guide.

    Par ailleurs, les Principes mondiaux pour l’intégrité de l’information que j’ai lancés l’an dernier viennent étayer et orienter l’action que nous menons pour créer un écosystème de l’information plus sûr et plus humain.

    À l’occasion de cette journée, prenons l’engagement d’utiliser l’intelligence artificielle non pas comme un outil de haine, mais comme une force au service du bien. Restons unis dans la poursuite de la paix, du respect mutuel et de la compréhension de toutes et tous.

    ***

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New board members appointed to the Health Quality & Safety Commission

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Health Minister Simeon Brown has today announced three new board appointments to the Health Quality & Safety Commission.

    The Health Quality & Safety Commission (HQSC) is a Crown entity responsible for improving quality and safety across the health and disability systems within New Zealand. 

    “I am very pleased to welcome Dr Peter Watson, Taima Campbell, and Clare Perry to the HQSC board,” Mr Brown says.

    Dr Peter Watson has been appointed as a member for a three-year term commencing 18 June 2025. Taima Campbell and Clare Perry have both been appointed as members for two-year terms commencing 18 June 2025.

    “Dr Watson is a specialist youth health physician, a clinical leader with expertise in medical administration and paediatrics and currently contracted as Regional Strategic Clinical Advisor to Health New Zealand. His governance roles include serving as independent chair of the Clinical Governance Committee for Forte Health Ltd, and as a trustee for both Cancer Research Trust New Zealand and the Aotearoa Clinical Trials Trust. He is also a member of the Health Practitioners Disciplinary Tribunal.”

    “Ms Campbell is a registered nurse with over 35 years’ experience, specialising in system quality and patient safety within the health care sector. As Director of Hauraki Health Consulting Ltd, she has led numerous initiatives focused on clinical governance, quality improvement, and risk management.”

    “Ms Perry is an experienced public servant with a strong background in health, regulatory services, and leadership. She has held senior roles, including Deputy Director-General at the Ministry of Health and other roles in regulatory services, health system improvement and innovation, and integrated service design, and has played a key role in implementing significant health initiatives”.

    “I would like to thank outgoing members Dr Andrew Connolly for his services to the Board since 2018, and Dr Jennifer Parr for her services to the Board since 2019.”

    “These members provided expertise and advice during their time on the Board. I thank them for their significant contribution and look forward to working with the new members as they begin their terms,” Mr Brown says.

    For more information on the HQSC, see: https://www.hqsc.govt.nz/. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Animal Welfare – WORLD’S BIGGEST INVESTIGATION INTO EGG FACTORY FARMING. NEW ZEALAND CAGES SCRUTINISED

    Source: Animals Aotearoa

    In the largest global investigation ever, The Open Wing Alliance reveals never-before-seen footage of systemic animal abuse and public health risks in cage egg factory farming. Alongside footage from 36 other countries, the exposé includes footage from a colony cage factory farm in New Zealand.

    New Zealand – June 17 2025 –  “The sound of thousands of trapped chickens, the industrial fans cranking and the stench of waste is beyond words”, says a volunteer investigator from Grassroots Campaigns NZ. “It’s hell inside.”

    This is the description animal welfare investigators gave about what they captured at an Auckland colony cage factory farm. Their footage was given to the Open Wing Alliance, a global coalition of nearly 100 organisations established by The Humane League, in collaboration with We Animals and Reporters for Animals International. Together with Animals Aotearoa, the united group has just released the largest ever investigation into industrialised egg farms in 37 countries. In never-before-seen footage, including from New Zealand, supported by an open letter backed by 100 celebrities.

    “The shocking footage exposes widespread abuse of egg-laying hens trapped in filthy, overcrowded cages, with evidence of injured birds, rotting carcasses, disease-ridden conditions, and more. This investigation comes as bird flu sweeps across every continent, jumping from farmed birds to wild animals and even humans”, says Jennifer Dutton, Corporate Relations Specialist at Animals Aotearoa.

    Footage from 37 countries, including:

    Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Estonia, Finland, France, Georgia, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Israel, Italy, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Nigeria, Norway, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey, United States, Vietnam and Zimbabwe.

    Key findings from the global exposé include:

    Hens confined in battery and enriched/colony cages, giving each chicken only the space of an iPad, or less, to live their entire life;

    Automated systems leave dead bird carcasses trapped in cages with living hens;

    Live hens abandoned in manure and waste pits, and eggs found in manure before sent to shelves;

    Birds unable to stand upright or spread their wings;

    Unsanitary conditions that promote disease spread, like avian influenza.

    This massive coordinated worldwide campaign is focused on spotlighting multinational brands dragging their heels on fulfilling corporate policy to transition away from cage eggs in their supply chains. The vast majority of food corporations around the world publicly committed, a decade ago, to remove cages from their egg supply chains, with global companies like The Hershey Company, Hormel Foods, Famous Brands, and Barilla already fully cage-free. However, food companies like Walmart, Zensho Holdings and Inspire Brands (parent company of Dunkin’ and Baskin-Robbins) continue to profit from sourcing eggs from hens raised in outdated, cruel cages. In New Zealand, hospitality giant Best Western Hotel chain was recently targeted by protestors highlighting the multinational’s lack of transparent reporting on its global cage-free progress, supported by a petition.

    Since 2023, when battery cages were outlawed in Aotearoa, there has been a disinformation campaign by the factory farm lobby to mislead caring New Zealanders about the continued domestic production of cage eggs. While battery cages are no longer in use, colony cages are. Eggs sold at retail level from these colony cage systems don’t contain the word ‘cage’ anywhere on the packaging. Following a number of complaints, the Commerce Commission is currently conducting a compliance project to assess whether colony eggs are a breach of the Fair Trading Act.

    In addition to cage eggs being sold under misleading labelling, the import of liquid eggs from battery cages is a significant problem. Over 80% of New Zealand’s liquid eggs, used largely in food manufacture, are imported from China and Australia where egg-laying hens are kept in battery cages. Produced using methods illegal here, they are added into Kiwi foods and quietly sold to the caring public who are unaware.

    Consumers around the world are increasingly demanding transparency and ethical treatment of animals in food production, and they won’t stand for further risks to our global public health. Over 100 celebrity figures signed an open letter urging food corporations to end the use of cages in their global supply chains. This investigation s

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Templeton Group Celebrates Four Wins at 2025 Property Industry Awards

    Source: Property Council New Zealand Rider Levett Bucknall Property Industry Awards

    Big night for Templeton Group as projects recognised across multiple categories

    Auckland, Tuesday 17 June 2025 — Friday 13 June proved auspicious for Templeton Group, as the company took home four major accolades at the 2025 Property Council New Zealand Rider Levett Bucknall Property Industry Awards, the country’s most prestigious property awards programme.

    The wins spanned 3 projects, across 2 categories and reflected the strength of Templeton’s diverse portfolio, which includes residential, mixed-use, and tourism properties. Templeton’s developments in Long Bay and Upper Queen Street won three awards in the Hawkins Multi Unit Residential Property category:  

    • ABSTRACT (Auckland CBD)     Excellence Award 
    • Kahu (Long Bay)                                Merit Award 
    • Light Box (Long Bay)                         Merit Award

    Templeton was also recognised in the Holmes Group Tourism and Leisure Property Award category, taking home a Merit Award for ABSTRACT, which uniquely bl

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI: GAM Holding AG appoints Albert Saporta as Group Chief Executive Officer and Tim Rainsford as Group Chief Distribution Officer

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Zurich: 18 June 2025

    PRESS RELEASE

    Ad hoc announcement pursuant to Art. 53 Listing Rules:

    GAM Holding AG appoints Albert Saporta as Group Chief Executive Officer and Tim Rainsford as Group Chief Distribution Officer

    GAM Holding AG (SWX: GAM) today announces senior leadership changes as the Group moves into the next phase of sustainable growth. Albert Saporta has been appointed Group Chief Executive Officer (Group CEO) effective from 1 July 2025, succeeding Elmar Zumbuehl who will remain with GAM until 31 December 2025 to support the transition. Additionally, Tim Rainsford will return to GAM to lead its distribution efforts as Group Chief Distribution Officer on 1 October 2025.

    These leadership changes reflect that GAM has successfully transformed and is now well positioned for growth. Under Elmar Zumbuehl’s leadership, GAM has undergone a comprehensive repositioning over the last 21 months; divesting non-core businesses, and rebuilding a lean, scalable platform designed to attract and empower top investment talent and better connect them to clients worldwide through a strengthened global distribution and client servicing network.

    Albert Saporta has over 40 years of experience in the investment management industry and served as Global Head of Investments & Products at GAM since October 2023. He will take over as Group CEO with a clear focus on accelerating growth through building on our existing and new product offerings and external opportunities. His passion for innovative investment strategies, drive for positive client outcomes, and energy is key for GAM’s next phase of growth.  

    Drawing on GAM’s pioneering heritage, combining internal and external investment talent, Albert Saporta has been instrumental in strengthening GAM’s investment team line-up and entering into multiple new partnerships with best-in-class investment managers. GAM is strongly positioned to provide clients with access to differentiated investment strategies across asset classes.

    Tim Rainsford will return to GAM as Group Chief Distribution Officer and a Group Management Board member. He brings extensive experience in leading global distribution functions focused on growth and delivering for clients. Tim Rainsford was CEO of Generali Investments Partners, and latterly, Chief Product and Distribution Officer for Generali Asset Management. 

    Rossen Djounov, Global Head of Client Solutions, will remain a senior member of the distribution leadership team, reporting to Tim, with a focus on driving growth initiatives and deepening strategic client relationships.

    Chairman of the Board, Antoine Spillmann, said: “On behalf of the Board of Directors, I would like to express our deepest gratitude to Elmar for his dedicated service and the significant achievements he has accomplished during his many years at GAM. His leadership has been pivotal in steering the company through transformative changes and setting a solid foundation for future sustainable growth. The Board is looking forward to working with Albert and Tim as GAM enters its next phase as a highly agile and scalable platform with a renewed focus on growth, innovation, and client outcomes.

    Albert Saporta said: “I am honoured to take on the role of GAM’s Group CEO. We have transformed GAM, and it is now well positioned with unique investment talent to deliver differentiated strategies to our clients. I am excited to be leading GAM into this next phase of sustainable growth.”

    Elmar Zumbuehl commented: “I am proud of what we’ve accomplished over the last 21 months, and I want to thank the Board and our anchor shareholder NJJ Holding for their support during this transformational phase. I also extend my heartfelt appreciation to every member of the firm for their unwavering commitment and efforts in successfully transforming GAM.”

    Tim Rainsford commented: “I’m thrilled to be returning to GAM with the firm’s focus on innovative strategies and commitment to client outcomes. I look forward to working closely with Albert and the broader team to drive growth and strengthen our global presence.”

    Biographies

    Albert Saporta:

    Albert has 40 years’ experience in financial markets, with over 30 years in the hedge fund industry. Albert started his career at Paribas in Paris, where he managed the Japan/Asia mutual funds from 1984-85. He joined Merrill Lynch in London as Vice President of Japanese equity sales from 1985-88. In 1988, he joined UBS Securities in London where he headed quantitative research and hedge fund sales for Japanese equities. In 1991, he joined IFM, a hedge fund owned by Jacob Rothschild’s St James’s Place and AIG, where he managed relative value global equity arbitrage strategies. In 1995, he left to set up Geneva-based AIM&R, a hedge fund advisory and research firm, managing the SOG and SOGAsia funds. In March 2006, Albert sold AIM&R ‘s research and hedge fund businesses to ABN Amro Bank (London). As part of the transaction, he set-up the Special Opportunities Group (SOG) at ABN, managing a balance sheet of >USD1bn in global arbitrage strategies and special situations. AIM&R was relaunched in 2011 as a research and trading advisory firm, advising global hedge funds, pension funds, prop trading firms and family offices.

    Albert has a master’s in International Affairs from Columbia University (1984), an MBA (1983) and BSc in economics (1982) from New York University, and a Math/Physics degree from the University of Nice (1980). He is fluent in French, English, Spanish and Portuguese. Albert holds French, Israeli and Spanish citizenships.

    Tim Rainsford:

    Tim Rainsford joins GAM Investments from Generali Investments Partners, where since September 2020 he was the Global Head of Product and Distribution. In this capacity, he led the global team of sales professionals based in Europe, focusing on defining the commercial development plans and strategies aimed at strengthening Generali Investments’ positioning in key markets and expanding its international footprint. 

    He was appointed as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Generali Investments Partners S.p.A. Società di gestione del risparmio (GIP) in April 2021, a key entity within the Generali Group’s Asset & Wealth Management business unit. In this role, he was responsible for steering the regulated entity and focusing on the investment management, product development and global sales efforts of the business unit, maximising the Group’s multi-boutique approach.  

    Before his tenure at Generali, he held significant positions in other major financial institutions. He served as Group Head of Distribution and Marketing at GAM Investments, where he was responsible for the company’s marketing and sales strategic direction. Earlier in his career, he spent thirteen years at Man Investments Ltd, holding various senior roles including Senior Managing Director – Head of European Sales, and Global Co-Head of Sales and Marketing.  

    For further information please contact:

    Colin Bennett | GAM Media Relations
    T +44 (0) 20 73 938 544 
    colin.bennett@gam.com

    Visit us: www.gam.com
    Follow us: X and LinkedIn 

    About GAM

    GAM Investments is a highly scalable global investment platform with strong global distribution capabilities focusing on three core areas, Specialist Active Investing, Alternative Investing and Wealth Management, that is listed in Switzerland. It delivers distinctive and differentiated investment solutions across its Investment and Wealth Management businesses. Its purpose is to protect and enhance clients’ financial future. It attracts and empowers brightest minds to provide investment leadership, innovation and a positive impact on society and the environment. Total assets under management were CHF 16.3 billion as of 31 December 2024. GAM Investments has global distribution with offices in 14 countries and is geographically diverse with clients in almost every continent. Headquartered in Zurich, GAM Investments was founded in 1983, and its registered office is at Hardstrasse 201 Zurich, 8005 Switzerland. For more information about GAM Investments, please visit www.gam.com. 

    Other Important Information

    This release contains or may contain statements that constitute forward-looking statements. Words such as “anticipate”, “believe”, “expect”, “estimate”, “aim”, “project”, “forecast”, “risk”, “likely”, “intend”, “outlook”, “should”, “could”, “would”, “may”, “might”, “will”, “continue”, “plan”, “probability”, “indicative”, “seek”, “target”, “plan” and other similar expressions are intended to or may identify forward-looking statements.

    Any such statements in this release speak only as of the date hereof and are based on assumptions and contingencies subject to change without notice, as are statements about market and industry trends, projections, guidance, and estimates. Any forward-looking statements in this release are not indications, guarantees, assurances or predictions of future performance and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of the person making such statements, its affiliates and its and their directors, officers, employees, agents and advisors and may involve significant elements of subjective judgement and assumptions as to future events which may or may not be correct and may cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in any such statements. You are strongly cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and no person accepts or assumes any liability in connection therewith.

    This release is not a financial product or investment advice, a recommendation to acquire, exchange or dispose of securities or accounting, legal or tax advice. It has been prepared without taking into account the objectives, legal, financial or tax situation and needs of individuals. Before making an investment decision, individuals should consider the appropriateness of the information having regard to their own objectives, legal, financial and tax situation and needs and seek legal, tax and other advice as appropriate for their individual needs and jurisdiction.

    Attachments

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: GAM Holding AG appoints Albert Saporta as Group Chief Executive Officer and Tim Rainsford as Group Chief Distribution Officer

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Zurich: 18 June 2025

    PRESS RELEASE

    Ad hoc announcement pursuant to Art. 53 Listing Rules:

    GAM Holding AG appoints Albert Saporta as Group Chief Executive Officer and Tim Rainsford as Group Chief Distribution Officer

    GAM Holding AG (SWX: GAM) today announces senior leadership changes as the Group moves into the next phase of sustainable growth. Albert Saporta has been appointed Group Chief Executive Officer (Group CEO) effective from 1 July 2025, succeeding Elmar Zumbuehl who will remain with GAM until 31 December 2025 to support the transition. Additionally, Tim Rainsford will return to GAM to lead its distribution efforts as Group Chief Distribution Officer on 1 October 2025.

    These leadership changes reflect that GAM has successfully transformed and is now well positioned for growth. Under Elmar Zumbuehl’s leadership, GAM has undergone a comprehensive repositioning over the last 21 months; divesting non-core businesses, and rebuilding a lean, scalable platform designed to attract and empower top investment talent and better connect them to clients worldwide through a strengthened global distribution and client servicing network.

    Albert Saporta has over 40 years of experience in the investment management industry and served as Global Head of Investments & Products at GAM since October 2023. He will take over as Group CEO with a clear focus on accelerating growth through building on our existing and new product offerings and external opportunities. His passion for innovative investment strategies, drive for positive client outcomes, and energy is key for GAM’s next phase of growth.  

    Drawing on GAM’s pioneering heritage, combining internal and external investment talent, Albert Saporta has been instrumental in strengthening GAM’s investment team line-up and entering into multiple new partnerships with best-in-class investment managers. GAM is strongly positioned to provide clients with access to differentiated investment strategies across asset classes.

    Tim Rainsford will return to GAM as Group Chief Distribution Officer and a Group Management Board member. He brings extensive experience in leading global distribution functions focused on growth and delivering for clients. Tim Rainsford was CEO of Generali Investments Partners, and latterly, Chief Product and Distribution Officer for Generali Asset Management. 

    Rossen Djounov, Global Head of Client Solutions, will remain a senior member of the distribution leadership team, reporting to Tim, with a focus on driving growth initiatives and deepening strategic client relationships.

    Chairman of the Board, Antoine Spillmann, said: “On behalf of the Board of Directors, I would like to express our deepest gratitude to Elmar for his dedicated service and the significant achievements he has accomplished during his many years at GAM. His leadership has been pivotal in steering the company through transformative changes and setting a solid foundation for future sustainable growth. The Board is looking forward to working with Albert and Tim as GAM enters its next phase as a highly agile and scalable platform with a renewed focus on growth, innovation, and client outcomes.

    Albert Saporta said: “I am honoured to take on the role of GAM’s Group CEO. We have transformed GAM, and it is now well positioned with unique investment talent to deliver differentiated strategies to our clients. I am excited to be leading GAM into this next phase of sustainable growth.”

    Elmar Zumbuehl commented: “I am proud of what we’ve accomplished over the last 21 months, and I want to thank the Board and our anchor shareholder NJJ Holding for their support during this transformational phase. I also extend my heartfelt appreciation to every member of the firm for their unwavering commitment and efforts in successfully transforming GAM.”

    Tim Rainsford commented: “I’m thrilled to be returning to GAM with the firm’s focus on innovative strategies and commitment to client outcomes. I look forward to working closely with Albert and the broader team to drive growth and strengthen our global presence.”

    Biographies

    Albert Saporta:

    Albert has 40 years’ experience in financial markets, with over 30 years in the hedge fund industry. Albert started his career at Paribas in Paris, where he managed the Japan/Asia mutual funds from 1984-85. He joined Merrill Lynch in London as Vice President of Japanese equity sales from 1985-88. In 1988, he joined UBS Securities in London where he headed quantitative research and hedge fund sales for Japanese equities. In 1991, he joined IFM, a hedge fund owned by Jacob Rothschild’s St James’s Place and AIG, where he managed relative value global equity arbitrage strategies. In 1995, he left to set up Geneva-based AIM&R, a hedge fund advisory and research firm, managing the SOG and SOGAsia funds. In March 2006, Albert sold AIM&R ‘s research and hedge fund businesses to ABN Amro Bank (London). As part of the transaction, he set-up the Special Opportunities Group (SOG) at ABN, managing a balance sheet of >USD1bn in global arbitrage strategies and special situations. AIM&R was relaunched in 2011 as a research and trading advisory firm, advising global hedge funds, pension funds, prop trading firms and family offices.

    Albert has a master’s in International Affairs from Columbia University (1984), an MBA (1983) and BSc in economics (1982) from New York University, and a Math/Physics degree from the University of Nice (1980). He is fluent in French, English, Spanish and Portuguese. Albert holds French, Israeli and Spanish citizenships.

    Tim Rainsford:

    Tim Rainsford joins GAM Investments from Generali Investments Partners, where since September 2020 he was the Global Head of Product and Distribution. In this capacity, he led the global team of sales professionals based in Europe, focusing on defining the commercial development plans and strategies aimed at strengthening Generali Investments’ positioning in key markets and expanding its international footprint. 

    He was appointed as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Generali Investments Partners S.p.A. Società di gestione del risparmio (GIP) in April 2021, a key entity within the Generali Group’s Asset & Wealth Management business unit. In this role, he was responsible for steering the regulated entity and focusing on the investment management, product development and global sales efforts of the business unit, maximising the Group’s multi-boutique approach.  

    Before his tenure at Generali, he held significant positions in other major financial institutions. He served as Group Head of Distribution and Marketing at GAM Investments, where he was responsible for the company’s marketing and sales strategic direction. Earlier in his career, he spent thirteen years at Man Investments Ltd, holding various senior roles including Senior Managing Director – Head of European Sales, and Global Co-Head of Sales and Marketing.  

    For further information please contact:

    Colin Bennett | GAM Media Relations
    T +44 (0) 20 73 938 544 
    colin.bennett@gam.com

    Visit us: www.gam.com
    Follow us: X and LinkedIn 

    About GAM

    GAM Investments is a highly scalable global investment platform with strong global distribution capabilities focusing on three core areas, Specialist Active Investing, Alternative Investing and Wealth Management, that is listed in Switzerland. It delivers distinctive and differentiated investment solutions across its Investment and Wealth Management businesses. Its purpose is to protect and enhance clients’ financial future. It attracts and empowers brightest minds to provide investment leadership, innovation and a positive impact on society and the environment. Total assets under management were CHF 16.3 billion as of 31 December 2024. GAM Investments has global distribution with offices in 14 countries and is geographically diverse with clients in almost every continent. Headquartered in Zurich, GAM Investments was founded in 1983, and its registered office is at Hardstrasse 201 Zurich, 8005 Switzerland. For more information about GAM Investments, please visit www.gam.com. 

    Other Important Information

    This release contains or may contain statements that constitute forward-looking statements. Words such as “anticipate”, “believe”, “expect”, “estimate”, “aim”, “project”, “forecast”, “risk”, “likely”, “intend”, “outlook”, “should”, “could”, “would”, “may”, “might”, “will”, “continue”, “plan”, “probability”, “indicative”, “seek”, “target”, “plan” and other similar expressions are intended to or may identify forward-looking statements.

    Any such statements in this release speak only as of the date hereof and are based on assumptions and contingencies subject to change without notice, as are statements about market and industry trends, projections, guidance, and estimates. Any forward-looking statements in this release are not indications, guarantees, assurances or predictions of future performance and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of the person making such statements, its affiliates and its and their directors, officers, employees, agents and advisors and may involve significant elements of subjective judgement and assumptions as to future events which may or may not be correct and may cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in any such statements. You are strongly cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and no person accepts or assumes any liability in connection therewith.

    This release is not a financial product or investment advice, a recommendation to acquire, exchange or dispose of securities or accounting, legal or tax advice. It has been prepared without taking into account the objectives, legal, financial or tax situation and needs of individuals. Before making an investment decision, individuals should consider the appropriateness of the information having regard to their own objectives, legal, financial and tax situation and needs and seek legal, tax and other advice as appropriate for their individual needs and jurisdiction.

    Attachments

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: MITP – Moldova’s Digital Engine Accelerates: Record Results In 2024 And Projections Of 1 Billion Euros In Revenues For 2025

    Source: Moldova Innovation Technology Park

    Chisinau, Moldova — The IT sector contributes 6% to the national GDP – a result that reflects the efficiency and impact of the ecosystem created by the Moldova Innovation Technology Park (MITP). The data were presented by Marina Bzovîi, Administrator of MITP, at the Moldova Digital Summit 2025, confirming the essential role of the Park in the digital transformation of the Republic of Moldova. With 2024 marked by record performance, MITP expects a clear upward trajectory for 2025, supported by the accelerated expansion of the resident base and the increase in revenues generated by the IT sector.

    Unprecedented growth: 533 resident companies in a single year

    Currently, Moldova Innovation Technology Park brings together over 2,370 resident companies, of which 533 joined in 2024 alone – the largest annual advance since the park’s launch. This record growth reflects Moldova’s growing attractiveness for international investors and technology companies looking for a stable, competitive and future-oriented environment.

    The MITP model offers a unique framework in the region: an ultra-competitive tax regime with a flat tax of only 7%, VAT exemptions and simplified contributions, which allows companies to focus on growth and innovation. These conditions are guaranteed by law until 2035, providing investors not only with incentives, but also with long-term predictability.

    MITP is 100% virtual, allowing remote operation without the obligation of a physical presence in the Republic of Moldova — a key advantage in an era where remote work is becoming the global norm. In addition, initiatives such as the Visa IT program facilitate the attraction of international talent, ensuring quick and legal access to the global workforce.

    In this modern and well-connected ecosystem, residents benefit from quality digital infrastructure, constant dialogue with the authorities and specialized support for international expansion. It is no coincidence that more and more companies from Romania and Ukraine are choosing to relocate to Moldova, in search of a more efficient, flexible and innovation-friendly space.

    MITP is no longer just a tax-advantaged framework — it’s a complete platform for accelerated growth, global connection, and sustainable digital transformation.

    The park hosts companies with capital from 43 countries, most of them from Ukraine and Romania.

    “The regional geopolitical context has had a major impact. If in 2021 only three Ukrainian companies were registered in the MITP, in 2024 their number increased 14 times, reaching 42, amid strategic relocations caused by the war. In the same period, the presence of companies with Romanian capital has almost doubled, boosted by the recent tax changes in Romania applied to the IT sector. Today, there are 41 companies in Romania in MITP”,

    said Marina Bzovîi, MITP Administrator.

    IT sector – a force in the economy: 6.3% of GDP

    The contribution of the IT sector to the national economy has increased significantly, reaching 6.3% of GDP in 2024, according to preliminary estimates, compared to 1.8% in 2015. This remarkable evolution is a direct result of the expansion of tech companies, favorable fiscal policies and the sustained attraction of foreign investment.

    “For 2025, we estimate that the revenues generated by MITP resident companies will reach 1 billion euros, with an increase of approximately 30% compared to 2024, when they totaled 785 million euros. It is a clear confirmation of the potential for sustainable growth and the value that the IT sector brings to the Moldovan economy”,

    said Nadejda Hodus, Financial Manager MITP.

    IT exports – Moldova, regional leader in growth rate

    Exports of IT services increased spectacularly, reaching 523 million euros in 2023, 10 times more than in 2015 (53 million euros). Although the absolute volume is lower than that reported by countries such as Romania (7.5 billion euros) or Ukraine (6 billion euros), Moldova’s growth rate is the fastest in the region.

    “This performance is all the more impressive as Moldova is a small country, both in terms of territory and population. MITP’s development model proves to be an efficient and sustainable one, transforming Moldova into a regional digital hub with strategic potential”,

    added Nadejda Hodus.

    Record contributions to the state budget

    The economic impact of the MITP is also directly felt in the revenues of the National Public Budget. In 2024, resident companies contributed €78 million – four times more than in 2017. About 50% of these amounts come from newly established businesses after the launch of the park.

    According to a recent analysis conducted by MITP, the contributions paid by resident companies could cover up to 16% of the national expenditure on health care and about 90% of the financing of vocational higher education – an eloquent illustration of the real economic impact generated by the IT sector in the Republic of Moldova.

    “Through these results, MITP imposes itself not only as a successful model in the region, but also as an example of effective public policy, which creates jobs, attracts investments and amplifies the country’s digital competitiveness. With clear objectives and a sustained pace of development, Moldova is getting closer to becoming a regional pole of innovation and technology”,

    concluded the Administrator of Moldova Innovation Technology Park, Marina Bzovîi.

    About Moldova Innovation Technology Park (MITP)

    Launched in 2016, MITP is Moldova’s national platform dedicated to the tech industry, offering a unique 7% tax regime and 100% virtual operation. With more than 2,300 resident companies in 43 countries, MITP contributes significantly to the national GDP and attracts global investment. Supported by legislative guarantees until 2035, the park promotes innovation, IT exports and Moldova’s integration into the European digital economy.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Secretary-General of ASEAN opens the 9th Forum of Entities Associated with ASEAN in Jakarta

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today delivered the opening statement at the 9th Forum of Entities Associated with ASEAN, held at the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat, in Jakarta. In his statement, SG Dr. Kao underscored the critical role of ASEAN Centres and Entities in advancing the ASEAN Community Vision 2045, particularly amidst increasing global volatility and geopolitical challenges. In the spirit of partnership and shared responsibility, he advocated for deeper collaboration across all the three ASEAN pillars and connectivity to promote peace, stability, sustainability, and regional resilience. SG Dr. Kao also welcomed insights from prominent and high-level speakers and encouraged all participants to explore joint initiatives in support of the ASEAN Chairmanship theme, “Inclusivity and Sustainability.”
     
    Download the opening statement here.
     

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN opens the 9th Forum of Entities Associated with ASEAN in Jakarta appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Secretary-General of ASEAN receives the Executive Director of the ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today met with the Executive Director of ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center (ARMAC), Buth Rothna, at the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat. They exchanged views on ARMAC’s ongoing initiatives in addressing the humanitarian consequences of explosive remnants of war (ERW) in the region, as well as ways forward for ARMAC to further contribute to ASEAN Community-building efforts.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN receives the Executive Director of the ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • DGCA reviews operations of Air India and Air India Express

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on Tuesday held a high-level review meeting with senior officials of Air India and Air India Express to assess the operational health and regulatory compliance of both airlines, which collectively operate over 1,000 flights daily.

    The review focused on maintenance-related delays, recent airspace restrictions, and passenger facilitation practices. DGCA flagged concerns over delays linked to engineering and ground handling issues at Air India, urging the airline to improve internal coordination and ensure the availability of spare parts.

    The impact of airspace closures, particularly over Iran, was also discussed. Airlines were advised to communicate proactively with passengers and adopt alternate routing strategies to minimize disruption.

    Officials emphasized adherence to Civil Aviation Requirements regarding timely passenger information in the event of delays or cancellations. DGCA underscored the importance of real-time communication and facilitation through all available channels.

    Regarding safety, the regulator reported that recent surveillance of Air India’s Boeing 787 fleet showed no major safety issues, with maintenance practices found to be compliant. Out of the airline’s 33 B787-8/9 aircraft, 24 have completed an “Enhanced Safety Inspection” as of June 17, while the remaining aircraft are either undergoing maintenance or scheduled for checks.

    DGCA also called for a more robust and real-time defect reporting system to enhance operational coordination and reduce disruptions.

    Reaffirming its commitment to safety and reliability, DGCA stated it will continue to closely monitor the performance of all scheduled airlines.

  • KVIC disburses ₹300 crore subsidy to 11,480 service sector beneficiaries under PMEGP

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) on Tuesday disbursed over ₹300 crore as margin money subsidy to 11,480 service sector beneficiaries across the country under the Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP). The subsidy was released virtually from KVIC’s Rajghat office in New Delhi by Chairman Manoj Kumar.

    The disbursal corresponds to a total loan sanction of ₹906 crore and was conducted in the presence of KVIC CEO Roop Rashi and other senior officials. All six zones of the country actively participated in the virtual event.

    In his address, Manoj Kumar highlighted that PMEGP has become a vital pillar of the government’s vision for a self-reliant and developed India. He emphasized that the scheme has transformed into a social movement by empowering lakhs of youth, women, and artisans with self-employment opportunities.

    Zone-wise, the South Zone received the highest subsidy of ₹116 crore for 4,565 projects, followed by the Central Zone with ₹72 crore for 2,403 projects. The North Zone saw a subsidy of ₹61 crore for 2,713 projects, while the East Zone received ₹22 crore for 996 projects. The North East Region got ₹2 crore for 81 projects, and the West Zone was allocated ₹26 crore for 722 projects.

    Since its inception, PMEGP has helped establish over 10.18 lakh micro enterprises with loans amounting to ₹73,348 crore and margin money subsidies of ₹27,166 crore. The program has generated employment for over 90 lakh individuals, making it one of India’s most impactful self-employment initiatives.

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Statistics NZ Full Information – Modernising New Zealand’s data system

    Source: Statistics New Zealand

    Wide-ranging improvements to the data system will modernise and future-proof how New Zealand’s economic and population statistics are produced.

    Minister of Statistics Hon Dr Shane Reti announced today sweeping changes that will see Stats NZ moving in a bold, future-focused direction to provide more timely and relevant data.

    “People’s information needs are changing and today’s announcements ensure we keep delivering data that improves lives today and for generations to come,” Acting Stats NZ Chief Executive and Government Statistician Mary Craig said.

    The changes include moving to an admin-data-first census and publishing a monthly consumers price index (CPI), as well as a programme of work to meet new international standards for macroeconomic statistics.

    “As New Zealand faces widespread and long-term social, economic, environmental, and technological change, people’s need for information is growing exponentially.

    “These changes will help ensure Stats NZ continues to adapt and provide high-quality information that supports New Zealand’s economic and social wellbeing,” Craig said.

    New Zealand’s census is evolving

    Cabinet has endorsed the Government Statistician’s decision to prioritise the use of information already collected by government, known as administrative (admin) data, for future censuses.

    The approach builds on the combined survey and admin data models successfully used since the 2018 Census.

    “This is an exciting and necessary change. The traditional way of running a nationwide survey on census day can no longer be justified, due to rising costs, declining survey response rates, and disruption from events, like Cyclone Gabrielle in 2023,” Craig said.

    “From 2030, key New Zealand census data and statistics will be produced every year, in a cost-effective and sustainable way.

    “By tapping into information New Zealanders have already provided, we will deliver more relevant, useful, and timely data to help inform quality planning and decision making.”

    Surveys will continue to play an important role, with a new annual survey asking census-type questions of a small percentage of the population.

    “The new survey will be set up to be highly flexible, with opportunities to change content and topics much more frequently.”

    Stats NZ will also work in partnership with smaller population groups to develop tailored solutions that will help meet their information needs.

    Stats NZ is working together with other government agencies to ensure that legislation supports the new approach and to make sure the admin data collected improves in quality over the next five to 10 years.

    “Ensuring the ongoing privacy and protection of data is a priority as we introduce these improvements,” Craig said.

    Modernising economic statistics to support economic growth and social investment

    New funding of $16.5 million over four years will enable Stats NZ to deliver a monthly CPI from the beginning of 2027.

    “The CPI is a key indicator of economic health and is used in monetary policy to set interest rates and index contracts, and influences things like benefit payments.

    “More frequent inflation data is important for policy, forecasting, and informing decisions that help address cost-of-living pressures and drive economic growth.

    “We are pleased to be taking this next step in enhancing our economic data,” Craig said.

    To ensure Stats NZ successfully delivers a monthly CPI, we are already updating our prices technology platform and building up the project team.

    Budget 2025 also includes tagged contingency funding of just over $61 million over four years to meet new international standards for macroeconomic statistics.

    The changes are extensive, and Stats NZ is preparing a detailed business case which, once approved, will see the new standards implemented by 2030.

    “The Measuring a Modern Economy programme will allow us to adopt the standards at the same time as our major trading partners, and ensure New Zealand has reliable data that provides a clearer picture of the economy,” Craig said.

    More information

    www.stats.govt.nz/modernising-the-census provides more information about the changes to modernise the census.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New IPU report highlights good parliamentary practices on religion and belief

    Source: Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU)

    The IPU has released the second part of its groundbreaking Parliamentary report on religion and belief.

    Part 2 of the report, Engagement with religion and belief by parliamentarians underscores the vital role of MPs in fostering peaceful, just and inclusive societies. It explores how engagement with religion and belief can strengthen the rule of law, uphold human rights, and promote sustainable development for all.

    It complements Part 1 of the report Institutional engagement with religion and belief by parliaments, which was published in May 2023 ahead of the inaugural IPU Parliamentary Conference on Interfaith Dialogue in Marrakesh, Morocco. This first part examined how religion and belief are institutionally present in parliamentary life by looking at constitutional provisions, parliamentary committees, consultation mechanisms and traditions reflecting religious or belief identities.

    The new report is timely, with escalating conflicts around the world which, although primarily political, are also marked by the weaponization of religion to sow divisions among different communities living side by side.

    Good parliamentary practices from around the world

    Part 2 delves into the ways parliamentarians interact with religion and belief to promote inclusivity and peace. Drawing on key informant interviews, submissions from parliaments and contributions from religious leaders and global experts, the report highlights good practices and lessons learned from parliaments around the world. It also examines select policy areas where religion and belief intersect with parliamentary functions, such as legislation, oversight, representation and, increasingly, parliamentary diplomacy.

    Key objectives of the report include:

    • Facilitating mutual learning among parliaments about diverse approaches to religion and belief.
    • Encouraging the adoption of good practices that foster inclusion and peaceful coexistence.
    • Promoting scrutiny of legislation to ensure alignment with international human rights commitments.
    • Strengthening inter-parliamentary and interfaith dialogue to better protect fundamental freedoms and the rule of law.

    Upholding rights and countering hate speech

    The report reaffirms the right to freedom of religion or belief as protected under international law, while acknowledging ongoing challenges in its realization. Parliaments are urged to play a proactive role in promoting and protecting this right, both formally through legislation and informally through cross-party or international networks.

    In response to rising hate speech and identity-based hatred, the report outlines human rights and soft law standards around freedom of expression, and shares practical tools for parliamentarians, such as codes of conduct, public advocacy, educational activities and dialogue initiatives.

    Special attention is given to the rights and inclusion of religious and belief minorities, with recommendations for legislative action, oversight and public engagement. The report also highlights the key role of parliaments in promoting gender equality and women’s rights, and where the full enjoyment of these rights intersects with religion or belief.

    All roads lead to Rome

    The report is released ahead of the Second Parliamentary Conference on Interfaith Dialogue, in which the IPU is leveraging its global convening power to bring together parliamentarians, religious leaders, international experts and civil society from 19 to 21 June 2025 in Rome, Italy.

    The Conference is being organized by the IPU and the Italian Parliament in cooperation with Religions for Peace under the theme Strengthening trust and embracing hope for our common future.

    The IPU is the global organization of national parliaments. It was founded in 1889 as the first multilateral political organization in the world, encouraging cooperation and dialogue between all nations. Today, the IPU comprises 181 national Member Parliaments and 14 regional parliamentary bodies. It promotes peace, democracy and sustainable development. It helps parliaments become stronger, younger, greener, more innovative and gender-balanced. It also def

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Can a foreign government hack WhatsApp? A cybersecurity expert explains how that might work

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By David Tuffley, Senior Lecturer in Applied Ethics & CyberSecurity, Griffith University

    On The Back Of Camera/Shutterstock

    Earlier today, Iranian officials urged the country’s citizens to remove the messaging platform WhatsApp from their smartphones. Without providing any supporting evidence, they alleged the app gathers user information to send to Israel.

    WhatsApp has rejected the allegations. In a statement to Associated Press, the Meta-owned messaging platform said it was concerned “these false reports will be an excuse for our services to be blocked at a time when people need them most”. It added that it does not track users’ location nor the personal messages people are sending one another.

    It is impossible to independently assess the allegations, given Iran provided no publicly accessible supporting evidence.

    But we do know that even though WhatsApp has strong privacy and security features, it isn’t impenetrable. And there is at least one country that has previously been able to penetrate it: Israel.

    3 billion users

    WhatsApp is a free messaging app owned by Meta. With around 3 billion users worldwide and growing fast, it can send text messages, calls and media over the internet.

    It uses strong end-to-end encryption meaning only the sender and recipient can read messages; not even WhatsApp can access their content. This ensures strong privacy and security.

    Advanced cyber capability

    The United States is the world leader in cyber capability. This term describes the skills, technologies and resources that enable nations to defend, attack, or exploit digital systems and networks as a powerful instrument of national power.

    But Israel also has advanced cyber capability, ranking alongside the United Kingdom, China, Russia, France and Canada.

    Israel has a documented history of conducting sophisticated cyber operations. This includes the widely cited Stuxnet attack that targeted Iran’s nuclear program more than 15 years ago. Israeli cyber units, such as Unit 8200, are renowned for their technical expertise and innovation in both offensive and defensive operations.

    Seven of the top 10 global cybersecurity firms maintain R&D centers in Israel, and Israeli startups frequently lead in developing novel offensive and defensive cyber tools.

    A historical precedent

    Israeli firms have repeatedly been linked to hacking WhatsApp accounts, most notably through the Pegasus spyware developed by Israeli-based cyber intelligence company NSO Group. In 2019, it exploited WhatsApp vulnerabilities to compromise 1,400 users, including journalists, activists and politicians.

    Last month, a US federal court ordered the NSO Group to pay WhatsApp and Meta nearly US$170 million in damages for the hack.

    Another Israeli company, Paragon Solutions, also recently targeted nearly 100 WhatsApp accounts. The company used advanced spyware to access private communications after they had been de-encrypted.

    These kinds of attacks often use “spearphishing”. This is distinct from regular phishing attacks, which generally involve an attacker sending malicious links to thousands of people.

    Instead, spearphishing involves sending targeted, deceptive messages or files to trick specific individuals into installing spyware. This grants attackers full access to their devices – including de-encrypted WhatsApp messages.

    A spearphishing email might appear to come from a trusted colleague or organisation. It might ask the recipient to urgently review a document or reset a password, leading them to a fake login page or triggering a malware download.

    Protecting yourself from ‘spearphishing’

    To avoid spearphishing, people should scrutinise unexpected emails or messages, especially those conveying a sense of urgency, and never click suspicious links or download unknown attachments.

    Hovering the mouse cursor over a link will reveal the name of the destination. Suspicious links are those with strange domain names and garbled text that has nothing to do with the purported sender. Simply hovering without clicking is not dangerous.

    Enable two-factor authentication, keep your software updated, and verify requests coming through trusted channels. Regular cybersecurity training also helps users spot and resist these targeted attacks.

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

    – ref. Can a foreign government hack WhatsApp? A cybersecurity expert explains how that might work – https://theconversation.com/can-a-foreign-government-hack-whatsapp-a-cybersecurity-expert-explains-how-that-might-work-259261

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Aviation – Lufthansa honored with World Airline Awards 2025

    Source: Lufthansa

    • Most family-friendly airline and best First Class lounge worldwide
    • Austrian Airlines and Eurowings also receive Awards

    Frankfurt 17 June 2025 – Lufthansa is the world’s most family-friendly airline. This prize from the World Airline Awards 2025 was presented today by the market research institute Skytrax at the Paris Air Show. The Lufthansa First Class Terminal in Frankfurt was also named the world’s best First Class Lounge. Austrian Airlines and Eurowings also received one of the coveted prizes – the award for “Best Airline Staff in Europe” went to Austrian Airlines in Vienna and Eurowings was named “Best Low Cost Airline in Europe”. Skytrax, a market research institute specializing in aviation, had previously surveyed 22.3 million passengers from well over 100 countries worldwide.

    “Lufthansa attaches great importance to ensuring that all guests on board feel comfortable with us – from Economy to First Class. I am therefore particularly pleased that we have received the award for the world’s most family-friendly airline and at the same time for the best First Class lounge,” says Heiko Reitz, Chief Customer Officer Lufthansa Airlines. “Above all, Lufthansa’s unsurpassed hospitality is also premium. In particular, our colleagues in the cabin, cockpit and on the ground can be very proud today. They are the ones who fulfill our promise of quality day after day.”

    Traveling with children  

    Lufthansa attaches great importance to ensuring that its youngest guests also feel comfortable on board. The airline therefore offers specially created kids’ menus prepared by the chefs at Gate Gourmet. The menus belong to the “Special Meals” category and can be pre-ordered by passengers free of charge up to 24 hours before departure. The offer applies to all classes on long-haul flights and to Business Class on short-haul flights.

    The trays are lovingly designed with colorful illustrations of the Lufthansa mascots “Lu” and “Cosmo” and the menu card invites young passengers to puzzle and color while they playfully learn how an airplane flies.

    Lufthansa has also introduced a new range of children’s toys on board. From cloud-shaped cuddly blankets for toddlers to puzzles and the game “City, Country, Flight”, there is something for every taste and every age. There is also a portfolio of coloring pages featuring Lu and Cosmo, which can be accessed via the Lufthansa eJournals homepage. Young passengers will also find magazines for children and teenagers in various languages. The in-flight entertainment program for children includes a large selection of films, series, music, audio books and podcasts. Children can also look forward to special amenity kits and, from summer 2025, new year-round “Best Friend” children’s boarding passes.

    Travel in Lufthansa First Class

    The separate First Class terminal in Frankfurt with limousine transfer directly to the aircraft and personal assistant, which has been named the best First Class lounge in the world, is emblematic of Lufthansa’s premium offering.

    Since the beginning of the year, traveling in Lufthansa’s top class has become even more exclusive. The new Lufthansa Allegris First Class on long-haul aircraft can be experienced in the summer timetable on flights from Munich to San Francisco, Chicago, San Diego, Shanghai and Bengaluru and sets new standards with two individual suites and the extraordinary Suite Plus: guests can heat or cool their almost one meter wide seats in the individual suites according to their personal needs. The separate cabins with ceiling-high walls and lockable door, large table and wide seat, a living room-sized screen and wireless “over-ear” headphones define a new standard in comfort and individuality. Generous storage space is provided by a personal wardrobe in the suite, so that travelers can change comfortably and have all their personal items to hand. Individual lamps allow travelers to create their very own feel-good atmosphere.

    The Suite Plus double cabin, the only one of its kind in the world, creates a special travel experience with two wide seats that can be combined to form a comfortable double bed if required. The flying private room impresses with maximum comfort and individuality. The Suite Plus offers maximum exclusivity for the single passenger and the unique opportunity to use the double cabin as a couple.

    The new First Class is part of a major Lufthansa premium offensive. Among other things, First Class guests can also look forward to renovated First Class check-in areas in Frankfurt (from late summer) and Munich as well as the newly designed First Class Lounge at Munich Airport.

    Skytrax

    The survey was conducted by the market research institute Skytrax. It evaluated the airlines’ in-flight offers and services at the airports. Skytrax has been conducting the annual passenger survey since 1999. All detailed results of the World Airlines Awards can be found at www.worldairlineawards.com

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • Indian stock market trades in green amid rising geopolitical tensions

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The domestic benchmark indices opened lower on Wednesday amid rising geopolitical tensions but turned positive in early trade, led by buying in the auto, IT, and PSU bank sectors.

    At around 9:32 a.m., the Sensex was trading 160.49 points, or 0.20 per cent, higher at 81,743.79, while the Nifty added 57.40 points, or 0.23 per cent, to reach 24,910.80.

    The Nifty Bank index was up 33 points, or 0.06 per cent, at 55,747.15. The Nifty Midcap 100 index was trading at 58,358.95, down 20.35 points, or 0.03 per cent. The Nifty Smallcap 100 index was at 18,412.80, declining 7.55 points, or 0.04 per cent.

    According to analysts, hopes for de-escalation in the Middle East conflict have faded, as former U.S. President Donald Trump called for an “unconditional surrender” from Iran. Recent social media posts by Trump and U.S. defence movements in West Asia indicate a possible escalation, market experts noted.

    However, global equity markets have not shown signs of panic. “It appears that the market’s assessment is that this conflict will end soon without impacting the global economy,” said Dr. V.K. Vijayakumar, Chief Investment Strategist at Geojit Financial Services.

    In the Sensex pack, Power Grid, Kotak Mahindra Bank, Infosys, HDFC Bank, Axis Bank, NTPC, and M&M were among the top losers. On the other hand, IndusInd Bank, HCL Tech, Sun Pharma, Eicher Motors, and TCS were the top gainers.

    “Nifty encountered resistance around the 61.8 per cent retracement level of the recent decline and has corrected from there. Yesterday’s high of 24,982 is the immediate resistance level on the way up. On the downside, 24,550–24,450 is a critical support zone,” said Vikram Kasat, Head of Advisory at Prabhudas Lilladher.

    On the institutional side, Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) were net buyers, purchasing equities worth ₹1,616.19 crore on June 17. Domestic Institutional Investors (DIIs) bought equities worth ₹7,796.57 crore on the same day.

    In the broader Asian markets, indices in Bangkok, Japan, and Seoul were trading in green, while Jakarta, Hong Kong, and China were in the red.

    In the last trading session, the Dow Jones Industrial Average in the U.S. closed at 42,215.80, down 299.29 points, or 0.70 per cent. The S&P 500 ended with a loss of 50.39 points, or 0.84 per cent, at 5,982.72, while the Nasdaq closed at 19,521.09, down 180.12 points, or 0.91 per cent.

    -IANS

  • Indian stock market trades in green amid rising geopolitical tensions

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The domestic benchmark indices opened lower on Wednesday amid rising geopolitical tensions but turned positive in early trade, led by buying in the auto, IT, and PSU bank sectors.

    At around 9:32 a.m., the Sensex was trading 160.49 points, or 0.20 per cent, higher at 81,743.79, while the Nifty added 57.40 points, or 0.23 per cent, to reach 24,910.80.

    The Nifty Bank index was up 33 points, or 0.06 per cent, at 55,747.15. The Nifty Midcap 100 index was trading at 58,358.95, down 20.35 points, or 0.03 per cent. The Nifty Smallcap 100 index was at 18,412.80, declining 7.55 points, or 0.04 per cent.

    According to analysts, hopes for de-escalation in the Middle East conflict have faded, as former U.S. President Donald Trump called for an “unconditional surrender” from Iran. Recent social media posts by Trump and U.S. defence movements in West Asia indicate a possible escalation, market experts noted.

    However, global equity markets have not shown signs of panic. “It appears that the market’s assessment is that this conflict will end soon without impacting the global economy,” said Dr. V.K. Vijayakumar, Chief Investment Strategist at Geojit Financial Services.

    In the Sensex pack, Power Grid, Kotak Mahindra Bank, Infosys, HDFC Bank, Axis Bank, NTPC, and M&M were among the top losers. On the other hand, IndusInd Bank, HCL Tech, Sun Pharma, Eicher Motors, and TCS were the top gainers.

    “Nifty encountered resistance around the 61.8 per cent retracement level of the recent decline and has corrected from there. Yesterday’s high of 24,982 is the immediate resistance level on the way up. On the downside, 24,550–24,450 is a critical support zone,” said Vikram Kasat, Head of Advisory at Prabhudas Lilladher.

    On the institutional side, Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) were net buyers, purchasing equities worth ₹1,616.19 crore on June 17. Domestic Institutional Investors (DIIs) bought equities worth ₹7,796.57 crore on the same day.

    In the broader Asian markets, indices in Bangkok, Japan, and Seoul were trading in green, while Jakarta, Hong Kong, and China were in the red.

    In the last trading session, the Dow Jones Industrial Average in the U.S. closed at 42,215.80, down 299.29 points, or 0.70 per cent. The S&P 500 ended with a loss of 50.39 points, or 0.84 per cent, at 5,982.72, while the Nasdaq closed at 19,521.09, down 180.12 points, or 0.91 per cent.

    -IANS

  • PM Modi wraps up ‘productive’ Canada visit after G7 Summit, heads to Croatia

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday concluded what he described as a “productive visit” to Canada, where he participated in the G7 Summit at Kananaskis and held several high-level bilateral meetings with global leaders. He has now departed for Croatia, the final stop of his three-nation tour.

    “Concluding a productive Canada visit. Thankful to the Canadian people and Government for hosting a successful G7 Summit, which witnessed fruitful discussions on diverse global issues. We remain committed to furthering global peace, prosperity and sustainability,” PM Modi posted on X.

    In a separate post on X, Ministry of External affairs (MEA) Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said:

    “PM @narendramodi concludes a very productive visit to Canada! Held fruitful dialogue on key issues in the global context on energy security, technology, and innovation at the @G7 Summit. Met with several leaders and discussed bilateral ties. Next stop — Croatia.”

    During the G7 outreach session on energy security, PM Modi underscored the need for universal access to clean and sustainable energy. 

    He also highlighted India’s global initiatives, including the International Solar Alliance, Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), and the Global Biofuels Alliance.

    PM Modi reiterated India’s zero-tolerance policy on terrorism, thanking leaders for their condemnation of the Pahalgam terror attack. He called for unified global action against terrorism and emphasized the need to hold those who support or sponsor terrorism accountable.

    Highlighting India’s digital transformation, the Prime Minister emphasised India’s success in democratizing technology and adopting a human-centric approach. 

    “PM Modi also highlighted India’s experience in democratising use of technology and its human-centric approach in deploying it. He called for addressing global governance issues to tackle concerns of AI and to promote innovation in the field. He called for addressing global governance issues to tackle concerns of AI and to promote innovation in the field,” Jaiswal said in a post on X

    On the sidelines of the summit, PM Modi held bilateral meetings with several global leaders, including Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission; Charles Michel, President of the European Council; Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney; South African President Cyril Ramaphosa; UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer; French President Emmanuel Macron; Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva; Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

    Before departing for the three-nation tour, PM Modi had said the visit aimed to thank key partner nations for their unwavering support in India’s fight against cross-border terrorism and to rally international consensus on combating terrorism in all its forms.

  • PM Modi wraps up ‘productive’ Canada visit after G7 Summit, heads to Croatia

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday concluded what he described as a “productive visit” to Canada, where he participated in the G7 Summit at Kananaskis and held several high-level bilateral meetings with global leaders. He has now departed for Croatia, the final stop of his three-nation tour.

    “Concluding a productive Canada visit. Thankful to the Canadian people and Government for hosting a successful G7 Summit, which witnessed fruitful discussions on diverse global issues. We remain committed to furthering global peace, prosperity and sustainability,” PM Modi posted on X.

    In a separate post on X, Ministry of External affairs (MEA) Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said:

    “PM @narendramodi concludes a very productive visit to Canada! Held fruitful dialogue on key issues in the global context on energy security, technology, and innovation at the @G7 Summit. Met with several leaders and discussed bilateral ties. Next stop — Croatia.”

    During the G7 outreach session on energy security, PM Modi underscored the need for universal access to clean and sustainable energy. 

    He also highlighted India’s global initiatives, including the International Solar Alliance, Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), and the Global Biofuels Alliance.

    PM Modi reiterated India’s zero-tolerance policy on terrorism, thanking leaders for their condemnation of the Pahalgam terror attack. He called for unified global action against terrorism and emphasized the need to hold those who support or sponsor terrorism accountable.

    Highlighting India’s digital transformation, the Prime Minister emphasised India’s success in democratizing technology and adopting a human-centric approach. 

    “PM Modi also highlighted India’s experience in democratising use of technology and its human-centric approach in deploying it. He called for addressing global governance issues to tackle concerns of AI and to promote innovation in the field. He called for addressing global governance issues to tackle concerns of AI and to promote innovation in the field,” Jaiswal said in a post on X

    On the sidelines of the summit, PM Modi held bilateral meetings with several global leaders, including Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission; Charles Michel, President of the European Council; Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney; South African President Cyril Ramaphosa; UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer; French President Emmanuel Macron; Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva; Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

    Before departing for the three-nation tour, PM Modi had said the visit aimed to thank key partner nations for their unwavering support in India’s fight against cross-border terrorism and to rally international consensus on combating terrorism in all its forms.

  • PM Modi meets German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on the sidelines of G7 Summit

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday met the Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany, Friedrich Merz, on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Canada. This marked the first interaction between the two leaders since Chancellor Merz assumed office in May 2025.

    Prime Minister Modi congratulated Chancellor Merz on his recent electoral victory and his appointment as Chancellor. He also expressed heartfelt appreciation for the condolences extended by the German Government on the tragic plane crash in Ahmedabad last week.

    Both leaders reviewed the progress in bilateral relations and welcomed the sustained momentum in India-Germany ties. They reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation in key areas including trade and investment, defence and security, green and sustainable development, green energy, technology, innovation, education, and mobility.

    The leaders agreed to further deepen and diversify the India-Germany Strategic Partnership, especially as the two countries commemorate 25 years of this important bilateral framework.

    Condemning terrorism in all its forms, the two sides reiterated that it remains a serious threat to global peace and stability. Prime Minister Modi thanked Chancellor Merz for Germany’s strong support and solidarity with India’s counter-terrorism efforts.

    The leaders also exchanged views on regional and global developments of mutual interest. Prime Minister Modi said that he looks forward to welcoming Chancellor Merz to India at a mutually convenient time.

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Human rights in Aotearoa on a downward trend – Amnesty International

    Source: Amnesty International Aotearoa New Zealand

    Research released today by the Human Rights Measurement Initiative (HRMI) raises serious concerns for how human rights are being upheld in Aotearoa New Zealand. The data is available on the HRMI Rights Tracker, showing ongoing downward tr

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ3: Prevention of elderly suicide

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by Dr the Hon Tik Chi-yuen and a reply by the Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Mr Chris Sun, in the Legislative Council today (June 18):
     
    Question:

         Regarding the prevention of elderly suicide, will the Government inform this Council:

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Universities – Sustainability researcher wins $1.5m global award for visionary work tackling the climate crisis – UoS

    Source: University of Sydney (UoS)

    Largest individual monetary prize for research in the University’s history – 18 June 2025 – The Frontiers Planet Prize, a global initiative of the Frontiers Research Foundation in Switzerland, has announced Associate Professor Arunima Malik as one of its three 2025 International Champions, awarding her US$1 million (A$1.54 million) to advance her and her research team’s pioneering work in sustainability science.

    By providing innovative, scalable solutions to help keep humanity within planetary sustainability boundaries, Associate Professor Malik received the award for, ‘Polarising and equalising tr

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: World’s Top Science Competition Awards $1M to Australia’s Visionary Scientist Tackling Global Climate Crisis

    Source:  Frontiers Planet Prize

    • The Frontiers Planet Prize has named its three 2024/25 International Champions, including Australia’s Dr Arunima Malik. The winners are scientists offering innovative, scalable solutions to help keep humanity safely within planetary boundaries.
    • Dr Arunima Malik will receive a prize of one million dollars (USD) to further her research and impact.
    • The winning research focuses on the environmental and social impacts of international trade and its effect on meeting the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
    • Following an independent scientific assessment involving 100 experts, chaired by Professor Johan Rockström, the developer of the Planetary Boundaries framework, the prize ensures faster global scientific consensus around the innovative ideas with greatest potential to drive change. 

      

    On 17 June, the Frontiers Planet Prize announced Dr Arunima Malik, from The University of Sydney, as one of its 2025 International Champions, awarding her $1 million to advance her and her research team’s pioneering work in sustainability science. Providing groundbreaking, scalable solutions to help keep humanity within planetary boundaries, Dr Malik received the award for the publication, Polarizing and equalizing tr

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • PM Modi, Mark Carney agree on calibrated steps to restore India-Canada ties: Foreign Secretary Misri

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    In a key bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the G7 Summit on Tuesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Canadian counterpart, Mark Carney, agreed to take “calibrated steps” to stabilise and rebuild the strained ties between India and Canada.

    Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri described the meeting as “very positive and constructive,” adding that both leaders underlined the importance of the relationship, grounded in “shared values, democracy, the rule of law, and people-to-people contact.”

    “The Prime Ministers agreed to take calibrated steps to restore stability to this very important relationship,” Misri told reporters in Kananaskis, Alberta, where the G7 Summit is underway. “The first of these steps will be the early restoration of High Commissioners to each other’s capitals.”

    Further, the foreign secretary said that the discussions explored a wide array of potential areas for collaboration, including clean energy, digital infrastructure, artificial intelligence, food security, critical minerals, LNG, higher education, mobility, and supply chain resilience. The two leaders reaffirmed their shared interest in promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

    Trade negotiations, which had stalled amid diplomatic tensions, were another major agenda item. The leaders agreed on the importance of restarting negotiations on the Early Progress Trade Agreement (EPTA), with a view to paving the way for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).

    “The leaders have agreed to remain in touch and meet again at the earliest opportunity,” Misri said.

    Carney, attending his first G7 Summit as prime minister, described India’s participation as a reflection of its rising global stature. “India’s presence here underscores its importance on the world stage and Prime Minister Modi’s leadership,” he said, also acknowledging New Delhi’s contributions to global counter-terrorism efforts.

    PM Modi thanked Carney for the G7 invitation and recalled his last visit to Canada in 2015. He noted that India’s G20 presidency had laid a strong foundation for initiatives now gaining traction at the G7.

    “It is my honour to visit Canada once again. The strong foundation India laid during the G20 Summit has taken a new shape and given new direction at the G7,” the Prime Minister said.

    The meeting marked the first in-person interaction between the two leaders since Carney assumed office following Canada’s recent general elections. It came amid efforts to restore stability and momentum to bilateral ties, which had been strained in recent times.

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Teach independence and reveal talents: how the best teachers of Moscow work with modern schoolchildren

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Aleksandr Odzho was predicted to have a career as a diplomat, Elizaveta Bogatyreva wanted to become a teacher since childhood, and Pavel Sibiryakov came to the system of additional education from the theater stage. But they are all united by their victory in the Moscow City Professional Competition of Pedagogical Excellence and Public Recognition “Teachers of the Year in Moscow”, the results of which were summed up at the end of May. Teachers, educators, psychologists, defectologists, speech therapists, young specialists and teachers of additional education competed in six nominations. The winners and prize-winners will become mentors in their profession, and their methods will be used by colleagues.

    mos.ru correspondents talked to the best teachers in Moscow about modern children, learned how schools are changing, what opportunities there are for revealing students’ talents, and how technology helps with this.

    The Trial of Ivan the Terrible and Historical Dishes

    Alexander Odzho, the winner in the nomination “Teacher of the Year of Moscow”, had every chance to become a diplomat, journalist, actor. But the choice was made in favor of a teacher. But in this profession he successfully combines the ability to master words, and artistry, and diplomacy. Today Alexander Odzho teaches history, social studies, music and the basics of spiritual and moral culture of the peoples of Russia inschool #854 in Zelenograd.

    “The outstanding innovative teacher Vasily Sukhomlinsky has always been an example for me. Just like him, I believe that a child should always be given the right to choose and respected as an individual. Of course, since Sukhomlinsky’s time, the school education system has changed a lot, many new opportunities have appeared, but the teacher’s tasks have remained the same – to provide all the conditions for the development of children’s abilities and talents. Due to the development of the Internet, students’ attention quickly evaporates today, so lessons should be dynamic, with different types of activities. Visits to museums, excursions, videos and paintings by artists dedicated to historical subjects help study the events of the past. There are many such materials in

    “Moscow Electronic School”, and we constantly turn to them. History can even be “tasted”, for example, by preparing a dish described in books or archival documents,” notes Alexander Odzho.

    In the nomination “Moscow Teacher of the Year”, Alexander Odzho became the best among 437 participants. Earlier, he took second place in the nomination “Pedagogical Start” of the competition “Moscow Teachers of the Year” and reached the final of the Russian TV show “Class Topic”.

    “I dreamed of such a result since my student years, but I considered it unattainable. However, the management, colleagues and family supported me in everything. We filmed a fragment of a lesson for the selection round, then there was an interview with experts, a public speech on how to take care of yourself and others. At the master class, I showed my developments on how to teach a child to ask questions. This is an important point in pedagogy. In my lessons, I use such formats as discussion debates, conferences, round tables or a historical trial. At the last “session”, my students and I looked at the state administration of Ivan the Terrible. The class was divided into lawyers and prosecutors, who had to operate with facts. And everyone made their own verdict,” says Alexander Odzho.

    Now the teacher is preparing for the all-Russian stage of the “Teacher of the Year of Russia” competition and for the publication of his two books. One of them is dedicated to the development of domestic medicine, and the second – to the history of Russia in diagrams and tables.

    Become the first and move forward: what does victory at the All-Russian School Olympiad give to Moscow studentsExhibition of professions: how open days are held at the College of Architecture, Design and Reengineering No. 26

    Mind Maps and Mail with Pockets

    Elizaveta Bogatyreva works as a teacher inschool No. 236 named after Hero of the Soviet Union G.I. Shchedrin in the Dmitrovsky district with groups of children aged three to seven years. She chose her profession as a teenager: she took care of her younger brother and felt a calling to work with children. Two years ago, Elizaveta Bogatyreva won the Pedagogical Start nomination of the Moscow Teachers of the Year competition, and recently won the title of Moscow Educator of the Year, showing the best results among 409 participants.

    “The main task of the teacher is to teach children independence. For this, various methods and teaching aids are used. With the little ones, we study new words and phenomena using a mind map. In the center of the diagram, we briefly write down the topic, for example, “What do we know about dinosaurs.” Then we mark with arrows how we will develop it: we will make figures, put books about dinosaurs in the reading corner, ask parents what the difference is between predatory and herbivorous species. Another tool is a question tree. We write down on its leaves what interests the children, and then look for answers. All problems in the group are also brought up for discussion. Children offer their ideas, we form rules, write them down and hang them on the board. We also have a post office: each child has their own pocket on a special stand. The children put notes and gifts in them,” says Elizaveta Bogatyreva, a teacher at School No. 236.

    In her work with children, the mos.ru interviewee uses a playful approach. Thus, in the fall, Elizaveta Bogatyreva’s students made costumes of different animals and prepared for winter: they built burrows from construction sets and blankets, prepared supplies, the “predators” hunted, and the “herbivores” gathered forage.

    At one of the stages of the competition, Elizaveta Bogatyreva held a master class for teachers, where she showed her version of a literary hero’s diary of emotions.

    “I believe that it is important to instill an interest in reading from an early age, so we analyze the feelings and actions of characters in literary works. At the competition, I introduced my development to my colleagues, and as part of the selection round, I presented a video with a fragment of the lesson. At other tests, I answered questions from the field of school education, revealed the connection between humans and artificial intelligence, and demonstrated rapid response skills in the format of a press conference. Winning such a significant competition became a new point of personal growth for me and confirmation of my professional qualities. Now the main task is to worthily represent Moscow at the “Educator of the Year of Russia” competition, which will be held in September,” says Elizaveta Bogatyreva.

    More than 2.7 million people accessed the MES library materials during the past academic yearGraduates will be able to choose a university and specialty with the help of “MES”

    The most devoted fans are the students

    In the nomination “I give my heart to children”, having beaten 319 participants, the best was Pavel Sibiryakov, a teacher of additional education from the center for the development of creativity of children and youth “Hermes” in the Dmitrovsky district. Five years ago, he founded the theater studio “Nachalo” in the center, today more than 250 children aged six to 18 study there.

    “I came to the profession from the theater and today I combine teaching with acting. Being a theater teacher is not that easy: it is the work of a mentor, director and scriptwriter at the same time. An individual approach is important here. When we staged the play “The Nose” based on the story by Nikolai Gogol, I entrusted the main role – Kovalev – to the most shy student. He coped with it well, and this experience influenced his character: the student became more relaxed and self-confident, made friends with other children. For modern teenagers who are used to communicating on the Internet, the theater teaches live interaction, empathy, they mature, become more responsible,” says Pavel Sibiryakov.

    Pavel Sibiryakov has developed warm, trusting relationships with the students of the theater studio. The young actors share with him not only their creative experiences, but also their personal ones. And when the teacher took part in a competition, the children became his most devoted support group.

    “My students were very worried about me, wrote encouraging messages, sent videos, watched the live broadcast of the award ceremony together. It was my first time participating in such a serious competition and I did it primarily so that the children could be proud of their mentor and strive for more. I was also glad to meet my colleagues, and with some of them — to make friends. In the second round, having split into teams, we designed a residential area with a focus on educational infrastructure from a construction set, and in the final I held a master class with the cadets: I showed how to do a speech warm-up and diction exercises,” Pavel Sibiryakov shares.

    The teacher is currently preparing for the All-Russian stage of the competition and has already filmed a welcome video for it.

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

    More than 18 thousand pre-vocational students attended excursions to the capital’s enterprisesThe best school theatres have been selected in the capitalSergei Sobyanin: 103 students from creative schools and colleges became grant winners

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

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

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/155388073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –