Source: International Organization for Migration (IOM)
Geneva/Brussels, 27 June 2025– The Government of Belgium has officially confirmed a new flexible funding agreement with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), providing an unearmarked contribution of €1 million per year from 2025 to 2028. The announcement, made during IOM’s 36th Standing Committee on Programmes and Finance, follows a high-level bilateral meeting earlier this month and reaffirms Belgium’s longstanding commitment to principled and effective migration governance.
“Belgium has been a steadfast and valued partner to IOM since our founding, consistently supporting our mission to protect people on the move and promote safe, orderly, and dignified migration,” said IOM Director General Amy Pope. “This renewed support reflects Belgium’s commitment to international solidarity and allows us to continue assisting migrants and communities facing the greatest challenges, from protracted displacement to human trafficking and climate-driven mobility.”
Belgium’s contributions have been pivotal to IOM’s field operations, from supporting early recovery in Ukraine, where IOM is helping communities rebuild livelihoods and infrastructure, to funding a regional project across six countries in West Africa that strengthens resilience to climate shocks, improves data governance, and promotes sustainable development.
In Belgium, IOM maintains close collaboration with partners at all levels of government, as well as with civil society, diaspora, and the private sector to support whole-of-society approaches to migration management.
Since 1984, IOM has supported Belgium with the voluntary return of more than 90,000 migrants, ensuring dignified return and sustainable reintegration in countries of origin, in collaboration with the Federal Agency for the Reception of Asylum Seekers, Fedasil. Partnerships with the Belgian Immigration Office, Fedasil, regional governments, and the private sector have also forged new pathways for regular mobility for students, workers, and displaced populations.
Belgium also plays a leading role in diaspora engagement through its strong partnership with IOM. IOM’s Country Office in Belgium and Luxembourg, with over 20 years of experience in diaspora engagement, implements the Organization’s global strategy to enable, engage, and empower diaspora, ensuring their inclusion in all stages of project development and execution.
Key initiatives such as the O-REMIT project, supported by the Belgian Directorate-General for Development Cooperation and Humanitarian Aid, are opening new pathways for migrants to send remittances more affordably and invest in their countries of origin, while the Conex programme strengthens the ability of diaspora leaders to assist and protect vulnerable members of their communities through targeted training and capacity building. At the core of this approach is the IOM Belgium Diaspora Advisory Board, which ensures that all initiatives remain firmly grounded in the needs and priorities of the communities IOM serves.
These efforts leverage the skills of diaspora communities, networks, and resources to strengthen migration governance and foster development in both origin and host countries. Guided by the priorities of migrants and diaspora communities, Belgium’s partnership with IOM continues to foster meaningful engagement and lasting impact.
New ideas continue to rise, as Samsung Solve for Tomorrow roadshows reach their final stretch. From the classrooms of Kolkata and the foothills of Jammu to the pine-covered landscapes of Shillong, each stop brought forward stories of determination, empathy and innovation.
The latest phase of the roadshow touched Army Public School in Kolkata, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST) in Jammu, and North Eastern Hill University (NEHU) in Shillong — each campus buzzing with youthful energy and a shared purpose: to solve real-world problems with real solutions.
Launched on April 29, 2025, Samsung Solve for Tomorrow is a national innovation programme that gives students across India the opportunity to build tech-based solutions using design thinking. The programme offers expert mentorship from Samsung leaders and IIT Delhi faculty, investor connects, prototyping support, and a chance to win INR 1 crore for the top four teams.
Spandan Mahapatra, a student of Army Public School in Kolkata, stood before his peers and shared his idea — an AI tool to detect early learning disabilities in schoolchildren. “Too many students are labelled as ‘slow learners’ when what they really need is early support. Samsung Solve for Tomorrow gave me the courage to act on this,” he said.
At SKUAST in Jammu, the conversation turned to the region’s unique challenges. Ayan Shahid Malik came forward with a concept for a mobile-based system to help marginal farmers monitor soil health. “We live in an agricultural belt where people still rely on traditional methods. I want to bring tech to them in a way that’s simple and practical,” said Ayan.
Meanwhile, at NEHU in Shillong, surrounded by rolling hills and monsoon skies, Bashan Kur Buhroy spoke of using drone-based delivery systems for emergency medicines in remote areas. “In the Northeast, there are places where ambulances can’t go. My idea is to use drones for urgent deliveries. With guidance from Samsung Solve for Tomorrow, I can turn this from a sketch into a solution,” said Bashan.
Each session was a reminder that innovation doesn’t need perfect labs or polished pitches — it needs a spark. And across these cities, that spark was everywhere: in recycled plastic bricks, in mental health support apps, in solar-powered farming solutions.
As the final call for entries approaches, the roadshow leaves behind more than application forms. It leaves behind belief — in ideas, in collaboration, and in the potential of young India.
Applications close on June 30, 2025.
If you have an idea, now is the time to act.
Let’s build a tomorrow that works for everyone — starting today.
“The responsibility is now with other Labour MPs to stand firm in the face of this inadequate offer. Political pressure means a reprieve for some who were set to be cruelly harmed, but this will leave Disabled people, young people and those who will become sick and injured in the future, high and dry. The Prime Minister should withdraw the Bill, take some considerable time to consult with Disabled people and come back with something humane and workable.”
Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –
A residential building project has been approved under the renovation program in the east of the capital. The new building will appear at the address: Plyushcheva Street, land plot No. 17/3. This was reported by the Chairman of the Moscow City Committee for Pricing Policy in Construction and State Expertise of Projects (Moskomexpertiza) Ivan Shcherbakov.
“The designed apartment building is a single-section building with 149 apartments and a non-residential ground floor. It will be built on the site of a house demolished as part of the renovation program. The project also includes landscaping of the territory,” said Ivan Shcherbakov.
The new building will comply with modern fire safety standards. In particular, the building will have smoke-proof stairwells, and the elevator block will be isolated from the intra-apartment corridors by fire doors. All premises, including apartments, will be equipped with automatic fire alarm systems.
During the improvement of the territory adjacent to the house, specialists will equip places for rest, games and sports, and the yard will be landscaped.
Earlier, Sergei Sobyanin said that this year new housing was received under the renovation program more than 18 thousand Muscovites.
The renovation program was approved in August 2017. It concerns about a million Muscovites and provides for the resettlement of 5,176 houses. The Moscow mayor ordered to increase the pace of implementation of the renovation program in twice.
Moscow is one of the leaders among regions in terms of construction volumes. High rates of housing construction correspond to the goals and initiatives of the national project “Infrastructure for life”.
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
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
The highly anticipated racing film “F1 The Movie” officially opens across Chinese theaters today, promising to appeal to both die-hard Formula One fans and newcomers to the sport.
A poster for “F1 The Movie.” [Image courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures]
Produced by Apple Original Films and the team behind 2022’s hit “Top Gun: Maverick,” the high-octane action movie stars Brad Pitt and is directed by Joseph Kosinski. The film is produced by Kosinski, Pitt, veteran producer Jerry Bruckheimer, and seven-time Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton.
Pitt plays Sonny Hayes, a 1990s racing phenom dubbed “the greatest that never was,” whose promising career was derailed by a horrific crash. Thirty years later, Hayes returns to the circuit as a washed-up drifter, lured back by former teammate Ruben Cervantes (Javier Bardem) to help rescue a struggling team. Paired with rising star Joshua Pearce (Damson Idris), Hayes must confront his past and learn that in Formula One, a driver’s fiercest competitor may be their own teammate — and that redemption is never a solo journey.
Pitt has described “F1” as “the most visceral driving experience ever captured on film,” noting that both he and Idris performed in actual race cars at competitive speeds.
Long before Pitt and Idris were driving at 200 miles per hour and before the film production embedded itself in multiple global races on the Formula One circuit, “F1” began with a pitch from director Kosinski to Bruckheimer.
“What Joe wanted was authenticity,” Bruckheimer recalled. “He wanted to make the best racing movie ever made. In order to do that, you have to put your actors into the cars. It’s exciting, and it’s dangerous, but it’s the only way to make the movie. And he achieved that — when you see the film, you’ll see the explosiveness of their driving.”
Kosinski said the idea for the film drew on two main inspirations: the hit F1 docuseries “Drive to Survive,” which spotlighted the sport’s underdogs, and his own connection with Lewis Hamilton. “I sent an email to Lewis just saying, ‘I want to make a film in this world. I want it to be the most authentic racing film ever. Would you be interested in helping me to do that?’ And he said yes,” Kosinski said.
“Telling the story of Formula 1 is never easy. It takes vision, meticulous care, passion and excitement,” said Stefano Domenicali, president and CEO of Formula One. “From the first moment we started talking about a film on F1, I felt that something special was going to be created. The script and concept they presented to me represented an authentic, intense idea, capable of capturing the deep soul of our sport.”
The film features appearances by top drivers including Hamilton, Max Verstappen, Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz, as well as key figures such as Domenicali, Red Bull team principal Christian Horner and Mercedes’ Toto Wolff. Far from simple fan service, these cameos contribute to the film’s effort to portray Formula One with greater realism.
Pitt, who has always been passionately devoted to racing, noted that the magic of the movie is the way it will appeal equally to longtime fans of the sport and viewers who have never heard of Formula One.
A fan photographs a souvenir ticket and poster at a Beijing cinema hosting the “F1 The Movie” China premiere on June 20, 2025. [Photo courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures]
“Threading that needle was the biggest challenge, but I think we’ve done that — made it enlightening enough and understandable for newcomers without dumbing it down for ultra fans. It’s funny, it’s aggressive, it’s driving, and it’s surprisingly heartwarming. I love all these characters. I think this film is so damn entertaining on so many levels,” Pitt said.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa in Beijing on Friday.
Xi said this year marks the 45th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties and bilateral relations have maintained a good momentum.
“Ecuador has joined the big family of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), and China and Ecuador have signed a free trade agreement, carrying out fruitful cooperation in areas such as energy, mining, power and infrastructure construction,” Xi said.
China has always viewed and developed relations with Ecuador from a strategic and long-term perspective, and is willing to work with Ecuador to advance the comprehensive strategic partnership, Xi added.
He stressed that the two countries should be good friends that respect and trust each other and good partners that seek common development, calling on both sides to continue supporting each other’s core interests and major concerns and increase exchanges on state governance.
Xi encouraged both sides to carry out key cooperation projects effectively, boost bilateral trade, enhance exchanges in education, culture, media and youth, and implement the outcomes of the fourth ministerial meeting of the China-CELAC (the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States) Forum.
Noboa, who came to China for the 2025 Summer Davos forum in north China’s Tianjin Municipality, said he admires China’s development that impresses the world and that his country will always remember China’s great support and assistance for its social and economic development.
Ecuador looks forward to deepening relations with China and increasing cooperation in trade, science and technology, culture, education and youth, Noboa added.
After their meeting, the two leaders witnessed the signing of a cooperation plan for promoting the BRI.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
China has made significant progress in expanding and upgrading its inland waterway network and port infrastructure over the years. By 2024, the number of inland ports with an annual throughput of 100 million metric tons reached 23, 2.3 times the number in 2012, Vice Minister of Transport Fu Xuyin said at a press conference Friday.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Real Madrid secured a place in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 knockout stage with a comfortable 3-0 victory over Salzburg in their final Group H match on Thursday, setting up a clash with Juventus as group winners.
Entering the match level on four points, Real Madrid led the group only on goal difference. Both teams needed a win to avoid facing Manchester City in the Round of 16.
Under drizzling rain at Lincoln Financial Field, Xabi Alonso’s side dominated early and created sustained pressure. The breakthrough came in the 40th minute when Vinicius Jr. fired a left-footed strike from outside the box after a swift counterattack.
Just before halftime, Vinicius turned provider, flicking a backheel pass to Federico Valverde, who calmly slotted home from close range.
Gonzalo Garcia sealed the win in the 84th minute, capitalizing on a defensive error by Salzburg’s Joane Gadou to fire home a right-footed finish.
In the other Group H fixture, goals from Salem Aldawsari and Leonardo gave Saudi Arabia’s Al Hilal a vital 2-0 win over Pachuca. The result sends Al Hilal through as group runner-up, making them the only Asian club to reach the knockout stage. They will meet Manchester City on Monday.
The Round of 16 kicks off Saturday with an all-Brazilian encounter between Palmeiras and Botafogo in Philadelphia, while Benfica takes on Chelsea in Charlotte.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Manchester City and Real Madrid clinched top spot in their groups with commanding wins at the FIFA Club World Cup on Thursday, as Al-Hilal advanced and Salzburg bowed out.
Manchester City struck three second-half goals to beat Juventus 5-2 in Orlando and clinch top spot in Group G.
Jeremy Doku opened the scoring for the Premier League side, showing composure after Rayan Ait Nouri’s through ball to slot past goalkeeper Michele Di Gregorio.
Dutch midfielder Teun Koopmeiners equalized by intercepting Ederson’s pass out from the back, driving into the box and firing a low shot that beat the Brazilian goalkeeper at his near post.
Pierre Kalulu then put the ball in his own net while attempting to clear Matheus Nunes’ cross, restoring City’s lead.
Erling Haaland made it 3-1 by bundling home a Nunes cross from the right and Phil Foden added a fourth with a tap-in after combining with Savinho.
The Brazilian winger added to the Turin club’s misery with a long-range strike that bounced in off the underside of the bar after Di Gregorio’s rushed clearance.
Juventus pulled one back late through Dusan Vlahovic, who held off his marker after Kenan Yildiz’s slide-rule pass and rifled low past Ederson.
“I liked the way we did it,” City manager Pep Guardiola said. “It has been a long time since we had a performance like this on and off the ball. The players were committed and we are happy to beat a top side.”
Juventus manager Igor Tudor admitted his team was outclassed in all aspects.
“It’s a bad feeling after the match,” he said. “Conceding five goals is never a good sign. We rotated the squad because we were already qualified, but they played incredibly well. Their pressing didn’t let us breathe. We couldn’t get out.”
Manchester City will meet Al-Hilal in Orlando on Monday while Juventus, which finished second in the group, will face Real Madrid in Miami on Tuesday.
In Washington D.C., Kodjo Laba and Kaku scored either side of halftime as Al Ain recovered from a goal down to beat Wydad Casablanca 2-1.
The Moroccan side went ahead through Cassius Mailula’s fourth-minute strike but Laba equalized from the penalty spot after Ayoub Boucheta brought down Adis Jasic just before halftime.
Paraguayan midfielder Kaku completed the turnaround shortly after the restart as he lashed home from distance after Matias Palacios’ layoff.
There was little at stake for either side beyond pride, with both teams already eliminated before the Group G fixture began.
“This has been a good experience for us. It was a difficult group, with [Manchester] City and Juventus, but we competed until the end,” Kaku told reporters.
Mailula said his team had taken positives from its participation in the tournament, despite scoring only two goals in three games.
“It’s been difficult and we are sorry that we didn’t get the best results,” the South Africa international striker said. “But we learned a lot and that’s the most important thing, to take lessons and grow.”
In Philadelphia, Vinicius Junior scored one goal and set up another as Real Madrid cruised to a 3-0 win over Salzburg. The result guaranteed top spot in Group H for Xabi Alonso’s men while the Austrian club was eliminated.
Vinicius gave the Spanish giants the lead in the 40th minute, running onto Jude Bellingham’s perfectly weighted pass and cutting inside before hitting a low 18-yard drive into the near corner.
The Brazilian forward then set up Federico Valverde with an ingenious backheel as the Uruguayan swept a first-time effort past Christian Zawieschitzky.
Twenty-one-year-old forward Gonzalo Garcia put the result beyond doubt six minutes from time by capitalizing on chaotic defending to dink a clever shot over Zawieschitzky.
Real Madrid finished the group stage with seven points, three ahead of third-placed Salzburg.
“We were happy with our first half but we eased off a bit in the second,” Vinicius said after the match. “We have to make sure that doesn’t happen in the next match, because we’re now in the round of 16. It’s the most important part of the competition and every player wants to be involved.”
In Thursday’s other match, goals from Salem Al-Dawsari and Marcos Leonardo handed Al-Hilal a 2-0 win over Pachuca, ensuring the Saudi Pro League side to be the only Asian club to reach the knockout stage. They will meet Manchester City on Monday.
Al-Dawsari fired Al-Hilal ahead in the 22nd minute by controlling Nasser Al-Dawsari’s pass and expertly lifting a shot over goalkeeper Sebastian Jurado.
Brazilian forward Marcos Leonardo doubled the advantage in second-half stoppage time, beating the offside trap to latch onto Ruben Neves’ pass before rounding Jurado and tapping into an empty net.
Al-Hilal finished second in Group H and is yet to lose a match in the tournament while Pachuca bowed out without a point.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
China’s Zhejiang debuts AI-powered tourism platform for foreign visitors
Xinhua | June 27, 2025
Tourists enjoy flowers at a park in Jiaxing, east China’s Zhejiang Province, June 8, 2025. (Photo by Jin Peng/Xinhua)
East China’s Zhejiang Province launched its AI-driven inbound tourism service platform “Zhejiang Travel” on Thursday in Hangzhou, the provincial capital.
The platform, designed to streamline travel for international tourists, offers real-time multilingual assistance and personalized itinerary planning.
“I simply asked in Korean for a ‘3-day, 2-night Hangzhou trip’ and instantly received a detailed plan, even down to daily transportation cost,” said a tourist from the Republic of Korea.
Developed by the Zhejiang Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism, the platform utilizes Alibaba Qwen and DeepSeek large-language models, integrating high-quality local cultural and tourism data.
It combines four specialized AI agents: a scenic guide, hotel consultant, budget planner, and neighborhood assistant to provide comprehensive support.
“Zhejiang Travel” features the “Easy GO” service code — a unified QR solution for payment, attraction entry, accommodation, and public transport. Additional functions include instant translation, AI travel photography, e-wallets, ride-hailing, and museum audio guides.
The service is accessible via WeChat, Alipay mini-programs, and H5 webpages.
The Swedish Government has decided to adopt a new strategy for humanitarian aid for 2025—2029. Sida is tasked with its implementation. The humanitarian core mandate of saving lives and alleviating suffering is a government priority. Cost-effectiveness, new transformative approaches and innovation are guiding principles for the strategy.
The Swedish Government has decided to adopt a new strategy for humanitarian aid for 2025—2029. Sida is tasked with its implementation. The humanitarian core mandate of saving lives and alleviating suffering is a government priority. Cost-effectiveness, new transformative approaches and innovation are guiding principles for the strategy.
The Swedish Government has decided to adopt a new strategy for humanitarian aid for 2025—2029. Sida is tasked with its implementation. The humanitarian core mandate of saving lives and alleviating suffering is a government priority. Cost-effectiveness, new transformative approaches and innovation are guiding principles for the strategy.
The Swedish Government has decided to adopt a new strategy for humanitarian aid for 2025—2029. Sida is tasked with its implementation. The humanitarian core mandate of saving lives and alleviating suffering is a government priority. Cost-effectiveness, new transformative approaches and innovation are guiding principles for the strategy.
The Swedish Government has decided to adopt a new strategy for humanitarian aid for 2025—2029. Sida is tasked with its implementation. The humanitarian core mandate of saving lives and alleviating suffering is a government priority. Cost-effectiveness, new transformative approaches and innovation are guiding principles for the strategy.
Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade Benjamin Dousa has presented the Government’s Music Export Prize to songwriter and producer Ilya Salmanzadeh. The Government’s Special Prize was awarded to singer Björn Skifs and the Government’s Honourable Mention went to music publisher Gehrmans Musikförlag.
Minister for Foreign Affairs Maria Malmer Stenergard is in New York on 18 June to meet with UN Secretary-General António Guterres. She will also speak at the annual session of the UN Women Executive Board, the Presidency of which is held by Sweden this year.
Minister for Foreign Affairs Maria Malmer Stenergard is in New York on 18 June to meet with UN Secretary-General António Guterres. She will also speak at the annual session of the UN Women Executive Board, the Presidency of which is held by Sweden this year.
Source: Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe – OSCE
Headline: Moldovan police strengthen capabilities in intelligence‑led policing through OSCE training
Senior managers and crime analysts from the Moldovan General Police Inspectorate took part in OSCE training courses to sharpen their skills in intelligence-led policing, Chisinau, 23 June. (OSCE) Photo details
Senior managers and crime analysts from the Moldovan General Police Inspectorate took part in OSCE training courses from 23 to 27 June in Chisinau to equip them with the tools to implement intelligence-led policing, a proactive and intelligence-driven approach to identifying, assessing, and addressing crime threats.
The training course for crime analysts from 25 to 27 June featured sessions on the principles of the intelligence cycle, advanced analytical techniques, and good practices in intelligence reporting. A particular emphasis was placed on the importance of data protection, privacy, and human rights compliance, as well as the use of technology and innovation in support of analytical functions.
A separate course was held for senior representatives from 23 to 24 June and focused on tools for managers to integrate intelligence-led approaches into daily operations, including core concepts, strategic thinking, inter-agency co-operation, threat analysis, and the use of emerging technologies in law enforcement.
Discussions also addressed ethical and legal considerations, data protection, and oversight mechanisms. They also explored how intelligence-led policing supports case prioritization, threat analysis, and resource allocation, emphasizing intelligence-led policing in combating organized crime, terrorism, and other major incidents.
The training courses were complemented by the OSCE’s donation of hardware and software to the Moldovan General Police Inspectorate’s Directorate for Information Analysis and the National Inspectorate for Investigations. The equipment will help bolster their analytical capabilities and reinforce Moldova’s efforts to develop modern, intelligence-driven policing practices.
“This training and the accompanying technical support mark a shift toward more informed and proactive policing,” said a senior manager from the General Police Inspectorate. “By strengthening our intelligence function and adopting modern approaches, we can better anticipate threats, allocate resources more effectively, and respond to complex criminal activities with greater precision and confidence.
These efforts were organized as part of the OSCE’s extrabudgetary project, “Support to the Law Enforcement Agencies in Moldova in Response to the Security Challenges in the Region,” implemented jointly by the OSCE Secretariat’s Transnational Threats Department and the OSCE Conflict Prevention Centre. The project is funded by France, Germany, Poland, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –
A survey on the operation of Moscow’s ground transport has been launched among passengers. They are asked to share their opinions about traveling on an electric bus or bus, talk about the route from home to the stop, and evaluate the route network. To take part in the survey, you need to scan a special QR code located in the cabin of electric buses and buses near the driver’s cabin, as well as above the accumulation area.
“We are striving to make travel around the city more convenient and comfortable for passengers, this task was set by Sergei Sobyanin. We ask you to take part in the survey and evaluate your trip on an electric bus or bus. All responses will be processed and taken into account in future adjustments to the infrastructure,” the Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Transport and Industry addressed the city residents.
Special survey posters were placed on the boards near houses in Otradny and Losinoostrovsky. These areas were chosen due to the potential for developing the route network in them.
Systematic work based on real feedback from passengers is being conducted throughout the city. The survey is open-ended and can be completed at any time. It will help the city stay in touch with residents and take their wishes into account. Based on the results of the analysis of the responses, the work of transport in the capital will be improved.
In accordance with the objectives of the national project “Infrastructure for life” In Moscow, much attention is paid to the modernization of social and municipal infrastructure, including increasing the number of convenient public transport routes and updating the rolling stock. In addition, within the framework of the national project, Moscow has begun developing the Central Transport Hub. It will become a single circuit with predictable suburban rail transport for more than 30 million residents of 11 regions of Russia.
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
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jane McAdam, Scientia Professor and ARC Laureate Fellow, Kaldor Centre for International Refugee Law, UNSW Sydney
In just four days, one-third of the population of Tuvalu entered a ballot for a new permanent visa to Australia.
This world-first visa will enable up to 280 Tuvaluans to move permanently to Australia each year, from a current population of about 10,000. The visa is open to anyone who wants to work, study or live in Australia. Unlike other visa schemes for Pacific peoples, a job offer in Australia is not required.
While the visa itself doesn’t mention climate change, the treaty that created it is framed in the context of the “existential threat posed by climate change”. That’s why when it was announced, I described it as the world’s first bilateral agreement on climate mobility.
The Australian government, too, has called it “the first agreement of its kind anywhere in the world, providing a pathway for mobility with dignity as climate impacts worsen”.
The high number of ballot applications may come as a surprise to many, especially given there were multiple concerns within Tuvalu when the treaty was first announced. Even so, some analysts predicted all Tuvaluans would apply eventually, to keep their options open.
The visa highlights the importance of creating opportunities for people to move in the context of climate change and disasters. The dangers of rising sea levels are clearly apparent, including coastal flooding, storm damage and water supplies. But there is a lot more at play here.
For many, especially young families, this will be seen as a chance for education and skills training in Australia. Giving people choices about if, when and where they move is empowering and enables them to make informed decisions about their own lives.
For the government of Tuvalu, the new visa is also about shoring up the economy. Migration is now a structural component of many Pacific countries’ economies.
The money migrants send back to their home countries to support their families and communities is known as remittances. In 2023, remittances comprised 28% of GDP in Samoa and nearly 42% of GDP in Tonga – the highest in the world. Currently, Tuvalu sits at 3.2%.
A long time coming
Well before climate change became an issue of concern, Tuvalu had been lobbying Australia for special visa pathways. Demographic pressures, combined with limited livelihood and educational opportunities, made it a live policy issue throughout the 1980s and ‘90s. In 1984, a review of Australia’s foreign aid program suggested improved migration opportunities for Tuvaluans may be the most useful form of assistance.
By the early 2000s, the focus had shifted to the existential threats posed by climate change. In 2006, as then-shadow environment minister, Anthony Albanese released a policy discussion paper called Our Drowning Neighbours. It proposed that Australia create Pacific migration pathways as part of a neighbourly response. In 2009, a spokesperson for Penny Wong, then minister for climate change, stated permanent migration might eventually be the only option for some Pacific peoples.
When combined with other Pacific pathways to Australia and New Zealand, nearly 4% of the population could migrate each year. This is “an extraordinarily high level”, according to one expert. Within a decade, close to 40% of the population could have moved – although some people may return home or go backwards and forwards.
How will the new arrivals be received?
The real test of the new visa’s success will be how people are treated when they arrive in Australia.
Will they be helped to adjust to life here, or will they feel isolated and shut out? Will they be able to find work and training, or will they find themselves in insecure and uncertain circumstances? Will they feel a loss of cultural connection, or will they be able to maintain cultural traditions within the growing Tuvaluan diaspora?
Ensuring sound and culturally appropriate settlement services are in place will be crucial. These would ideally be co-developed with members of the Tuvaluan community, to “centralise Tuvaluan culture and values, in order to ensure ongoing dialogue and trust”.
It has been suggested by experts that a “liaison officer with Tuvaluan cultural expertise and language skills could assist in facilitating activities such as post-arrival programs”, for instance.
Learning from experience
There are also many important lessons to be learned from the migration of Tuvaluans to New Zealand, to reduce the risk of newcomers experiencing economic and social hardship.
Ongoing monitoring and refinement of the scheme will also be key. It should involve the Tuvaluan diaspora, communities back in Tuvalu, service providers in Australia, as well as federal, state/territory and local governments.
By freeing up resources and alleviating stress on what is already a fragile atoll environment, migration may enable some people to remain in Tuvalu for longer, supported by remittances and extended family networks abroad.
As some experts have suggested, money sent home from overseas could be used to make families less vulnerable to climate change. It might help them buy rainwater tanks or small boats, or improve internet and other communications. Remittances are also beneficial when they are invested in services that lift the level of education of children or boost social capital.
Australia is offering ‘climate visas’ to 280 residents of Tuvalu (10 News First)
Delaying a mass exodus
It is difficult to know when a tipping point might be reached. For instance, some have warned that if too few people remain in Tuvalu, this could constrain development by limiting the availability of labour and skills. A former president of Kiribati, Teburoro Tito, once told me migration was “a double-edged sword”. While it could help people secure employment overseas and remit money, “the local economy, the local setup, also has to have enough skilled people” – otherwise it’s counterproductive.
With visas capped at 280 a year – and scope to adjust the numbers if concerns arise – we are still a long way from that point. Right now, the new visa provides a safety net to ensure people have choices about how they respond to climate change. With the visa ballot open until July 18, many more people may yet apply.
Jane McAdam receives funding from the Australian Research Council (ARC) and is the Director of the ARC Evacuations Research Hub at the Kaldor Centre for International Refugee Law, UNSW Sydney.
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jane McAdam, Scientia Professor and ARC Laureate Fellow, Kaldor Centre for International Refugee Law, UNSW Sydney
In just four days, one-third of the population of Tuvalu entered a ballot for a new permanent visa to Australia.
This world-first visa will enable up to 280 Tuvaluans to move permanently to Australia each year, from a current population of about 10,000. The visa is open to anyone who wants to work, study or live in Australia. Unlike other visa schemes for Pacific peoples, a job offer in Australia is not required.
While the visa itself doesn’t mention climate change, the treaty that created it is framed in the context of the “existential threat posed by climate change”. That’s why when it was announced, I described it as the world’s first bilateral agreement on climate mobility.
The Australian government, too, has called it “the first agreement of its kind anywhere in the world, providing a pathway for mobility with dignity as climate impacts worsen”.
The high number of ballot applications may come as a surprise to many, especially given there were multiple concerns within Tuvalu when the treaty was first announced. Even so, some analysts predicted all Tuvaluans would apply eventually, to keep their options open.
The visa highlights the importance of creating opportunities for people to move in the context of climate change and disasters. The dangers of rising sea levels are clearly apparent, including coastal flooding, storm damage and water supplies. But there is a lot more at play here.
For many, especially young families, this will be seen as a chance for education and skills training in Australia. Giving people choices about if, when and where they move is empowering and enables them to make informed decisions about their own lives.
For the government of Tuvalu, the new visa is also about shoring up the economy. Migration is now a structural component of many Pacific countries’ economies.
The money migrants send back to their home countries to support their families and communities is known as remittances. In 2023, remittances comprised 28% of GDP in Samoa and nearly 42% of GDP in Tonga – the highest in the world. Currently, Tuvalu sits at 3.2%.
A long time coming
Well before climate change became an issue of concern, Tuvalu had been lobbying Australia for special visa pathways. Demographic pressures, combined with limited livelihood and educational opportunities, made it a live policy issue throughout the 1980s and ‘90s. In 1984, a review of Australia’s foreign aid program suggested improved migration opportunities for Tuvaluans may be the most useful form of assistance.
By the early 2000s, the focus had shifted to the existential threats posed by climate change. In 2006, as then-shadow environment minister, Anthony Albanese released a policy discussion paper called Our Drowning Neighbours. It proposed that Australia create Pacific migration pathways as part of a neighbourly response. In 2009, a spokesperson for Penny Wong, then minister for climate change, stated permanent migration might eventually be the only option for some Pacific peoples.
When combined with other Pacific pathways to Australia and New Zealand, nearly 4% of the population could migrate each year. This is “an extraordinarily high level”, according to one expert. Within a decade, close to 40% of the population could have moved – although some people may return home or go backwards and forwards.
How will the new arrivals be received?
The real test of the new visa’s success will be how people are treated when they arrive in Australia.
Will they be helped to adjust to life here, or will they feel isolated and shut out? Will they be able to find work and training, or will they find themselves in insecure and uncertain circumstances? Will they feel a loss of cultural connection, or will they be able to maintain cultural traditions within the growing Tuvaluan diaspora?
Ensuring sound and culturally appropriate settlement services are in place will be crucial. These would ideally be co-developed with members of the Tuvaluan community, to “centralise Tuvaluan culture and values, in order to ensure ongoing dialogue and trust”.
It has been suggested by experts that a “liaison officer with Tuvaluan cultural expertise and language skills could assist in facilitating activities such as post-arrival programs”, for instance.
Learning from experience
There are also many important lessons to be learned from the migration of Tuvaluans to New Zealand, to reduce the risk of newcomers experiencing economic and social hardship.
Ongoing monitoring and refinement of the scheme will also be key. It should involve the Tuvaluan diaspora, communities back in Tuvalu, service providers in Australia, as well as federal, state/territory and local governments.
By freeing up resources and alleviating stress on what is already a fragile atoll environment, migration may enable some people to remain in Tuvalu for longer, supported by remittances and extended family networks abroad.
As some experts have suggested, money sent home from overseas could be used to make families less vulnerable to climate change. It might help them buy rainwater tanks or small boats, or improve internet and other communications. Remittances are also beneficial when they are invested in services that lift the level of education of children or boost social capital.
Australia is offering ‘climate visas’ to 280 residents of Tuvalu (10 News First)
Delaying a mass exodus
It is difficult to know when a tipping point might be reached. For instance, some have warned that if too few people remain in Tuvalu, this could constrain development by limiting the availability of labour and skills. A former president of Kiribati, Teburoro Tito, once told me migration was “a double-edged sword”. While it could help people secure employment overseas and remit money, “the local economy, the local setup, also has to have enough skilled people” – otherwise it’s counterproductive.
With visas capped at 280 a year – and scope to adjust the numbers if concerns arise – we are still a long way from that point. Right now, the new visa provides a safety net to ensure people have choices about how they respond to climate change. With the visa ballot open until July 18, many more people may yet apply.
Jane McAdam receives funding from the Australian Research Council (ARC) and is the Director of the ARC Evacuations Research Hub at the Kaldor Centre for International Refugee Law, UNSW Sydney.
SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador, June 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget Wallet, the leading non-custodial Web3 wallet, is advancing its PayFi initiative by exploring the integration of QR code technology into decentralized payment systems. This ongoing research marks a significant step in demonstrating how self-custodial wallets can bridge the gap between traditional financial infrastructure and the decentralized world of Web3.
As blockchain adoption expands, integrating crypto payments into familiar systems remains a challenge. Bitget Wallet’s PayFi initiative is exploring how widely used QR code systems, known for their simplicity and mobile compatibility, can be adapted for decentralized use. The goal is to deliver a crypto payment experience that feels familiar while embracing the future of Web3.
“QR code payments are the most natural bridge between today’s habits and tomorrow’s financial systems,” said Jamie Elkaleh, CMO of Bitget Wallet.“Our work on PayFi is about more than just enabling transactions — it’s about designing a user-first experience that makes decentralized payments feel second nature.”
Adoption trends in Southeast Asia underscore the power of QR code infrastructure to drive financial inclusion. In Vietnam, QR payments surged 170% year-over-year in 2023, led by VietQR and major e-wallets like MoMo, ZaloPay, and Viettel Money. Meanwhile, the Philippines has seen rapid growth through its national QR Ph standard, now accepted by over 2.5 million merchants and supported by leading platforms GCash and Maya. These examples highlight the scalability and user familiarity of QR systems—making them an ideal foundation for bridging Web2 and Web3 payments.
Bitget Wallet’s PayFi initiative is focused on exploring how QR-based transactions can function securely within a self-custodial wallet environment. This includes analyzing regional QR payment standards, examining their interoperability with decentralized protocols, and assessing the infrastructure and compliance requirements needed for scalable integration. Still in its early research phase, the project is centered on developing internal proofs of concept and collaborating with external partners to refine the technology. Bitget Wallet is taking a deliberate approach—prioritizing deep understanding and responsible development over rapid deployment, to contribute meaningfully to the evolving Web3 and fintech ecosystems.
Bitget Wallet’s focus has always been on creating tools that empower users in a rapidly evolving financial landscape. With PayFi, the goal is to transform complex backend interactions into seamless user experiences—enabling everyday transactions like retail purchases, peer-to-peer payments, or service subscriptions to be completed directly from a self-custodial wallet.
The integration of QR code capabilities represents more than just a technical upgrade. It reflects a deeper shift toward building payment systems that are inclusive, interoperable, and rooted in user ownership. As Bitget Wallet continues this work, it remains focused on shaping meaningful standards and solutions that can serve both the Web3 community and broader financial ecosystems. In a future where decentralized and traditional systems coexist, Bitget Wallet’s PayFi initiative offers a glimpse into what that reality might look like—where paying with crypto can be as easy as scanning a code.
About Bitget Wallet Bitget Wallet is a non-custodial crypto wallet designed to make crypto simple and secure for everyone. With over 80 million users, it brings together a full suite of crypto services, including swaps, market insights, staking, rewards, DApp exploration, and payment solutions. Supporting 130+ blockchains and millions of tokens, Bitget Wallet enables seamless multi-chain trading across hundreds of DEXs and cross-chain bridges. Backed by a $300+ million user protection fund, it ensures the highest level of security for users’ assets. Its vision is Crypto for Everyone — to make crypto simpler, safer, and part of everyday life for a billion people. For more information, visit: X | Telegram | Instagram | YouTube | LinkedIn | TikTok | Discord | Facebook For media inquiries, contact media.web3@bitget.com
On the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers’ meeting in China’s Qingdao, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held bilateral discussions with his counterparts from Belarus, Tajikistan, and Kazakhstan on Thursday.
Singh met with Belarusian Defence Minister Lieutenant General Victor Khrenin, Tajik Defence Minister Lieutenant General Sobrizoda Emomali Abdurakhim, and Kazakh Defence Minister Lieutenant General Dauren Kosanov, with a focus on strengthening defence cooperation and exploring new avenues of collaboration.
During the meetings, Singh emphasised the importance of sustained engagement in defence partnerships and highlighted India’s rapid progress in defence production, particularly in achieving self-reliance across key sectors. He encouraged deeper collaboration in technical areas, defence manufacturing, and innovation.
Singh also briefed his counterparts on the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, which resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians, and on Operation Sindoor, India’s counter-terror initiative aimed at dismantling cross-border terror infrastructure in Pakistan.
All three ministers acknowledged the importance of continued cooperation and agreed to enhance collaboration in areas such as capacity building, joint training, military education, and technical cooperation. The discussions underscored mutual commitment to strengthening defence ties and promoting regional security.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held a bilateral meeting with Russian Defence Minister Andrey Belousov on Thursday on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers’ Meeting in Qingdao, China. The meeting focused on a broad spectrum of issues, including current geopolitical developments, cross-border terrorism, and Indo-Russian defence cooperation.
In what was described as one of the most crucial interactions between the two nations, being held in the backdrop of Operation Sindoor, the ministers held in-depth discussions on the consequent necessity of augmenting defence production, especially in critical items such as air defence, air-to-air missiles, modern capabilities, and upgrades of air platforms.
The Russian Defence Minister reiterated the strength of the long-standing Indo-Russian relationship, describing it as a time-tested partnership. He also expressed Russia’s solidarity with India over the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, condemning it as a heinous and cowardly act.
Key takeaways from the meeting included discussions on the expedited supply of critical military hardware such as S-400 air defence systems, upgrades of Su-30 MKI fighter jets, air-to-air missile systems, and other advanced defence technologies. The two sides also explored opportunities for joint production, modernisation of defence platforms, and enhancement of strategic collaboration.
The meeting reaffirmed the strategic depth of Indo-Russian defence ties and the shared commitment to regional and global security amid evolving geopolitical challenges.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held a bilateral meeting with Russian Defence Minister Andrey Belousov on Thursday on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers’ Meeting in Qingdao, China. The meeting focused on a broad spectrum of issues, including current geopolitical developments, cross-border terrorism, and Indo-Russian defence cooperation.
In what was described as one of the most crucial interactions between the two nations, being held in the backdrop of Operation Sindoor, the ministers held in-depth discussions on the consequent necessity of augmenting defence production, especially in critical items such as air defence, air-to-air missiles, modern capabilities, and upgrades of air platforms.
The Russian Defence Minister reiterated the strength of the long-standing Indo-Russian relationship, describing it as a time-tested partnership. He also expressed Russia’s solidarity with India over the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, condemning it as a heinous and cowardly act.
Key takeaways from the meeting included discussions on the expedited supply of critical military hardware such as S-400 air defence systems, upgrades of Su-30 MKI fighter jets, air-to-air missile systems, and other advanced defence technologies. The two sides also explored opportunities for joint production, modernisation of defence platforms, and enhancement of strategic collaboration.
The meeting reaffirmed the strategic depth of Indo-Russian defence ties and the shared commitment to regional and global security amid evolving geopolitical challenges.
The holy city of Kashi in Uttar Pradesh, witnessed a divine confluence of devotion and tradition as the grand Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath was celebrated with immense fervour on Friday.
This centuries-old tradition continues to draw lakhs of devotees from across the country who come to seek the blessings of Lord Jagannath, his brother Balabhadra, and sister Subhadra, as they embark on their ceremonial chariot procession through the streets of Varanasi.
The event marks one of the most significant spiritual gatherings in the city, considered to be Kashi’s first ‘Lakkha Mela,’ a fair attended by lakhs of devotees.
The three-day religious celebration holds immense significance in the spiritual calendar of Varanasi. As the beautifully-adorned chariots made their way through the ancient lanes of the city, the atmosphere resonated with chants of “Jai Jagannath”, the beats of drums, conches, and the joyous singing of bhajans by the devotees.
According to Hindu belief, Lord Jagannath enters a period of seclusion and recovery following a ritual bath on Jyeshtha Purnima. The chief priest of the Jagannath Temple in Kashi, Pandit Radheshyam Pandey, explained, “After bathing at Jyeshtha Purnima, Lord Jagannath is believed to fall unwell for 14 days. On Amavasya, after recovering, he embarks on a city tour to bless devotees.”
Adding to this, a devotee shared an insight into the traditional healing rituals observed during this period, saying, “Lord Jagannath is believed to be unwell. For the first two days, a general herbal decoction is given and then for the next 14 days, a special parwal decoction is prepared. After that, he recovers.”
Devotees from far and wide thronged the streets of Varanasi, some offering basil leaves and sweets, especially the local delicacy nankhatai, as offering to the deity. People were seen dancing to devotional music, waving saffron flags, and participating in ‘aartis’ as the divine procession moved through the city.
The Rath Yatra in Kashi is a spiritual spectacle, capturing the deep-rooted faith of millions.
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Friday inaugurated a newly built DTC bus depot in Sector A9, Narela, and flagged off 105 electric buses under the Delhi Electric Vehicle Interchange (DEVI) initiative. The move is part of the capital’s ongoing efforts to expand clean public transport infrastructure and improve last-mile connectivity.
The event was attended by BJP MP Yogender Chandoliya, Minister Pankaj Kumar Singh, and Minister Ravinder Indraj Singh, among others.
The DEVI buses, aimed at reducing emissions and offering a smoother commuting experience, are part of the government’s broader push towards sustainable mobility.
Speaking at the event, Minister Singh highlighted the environmental significance of the move.
“Pollution has always been a major issue in Delhi, but this time, you would have noticed there hasn’t been any situation that led the NGT to impose bans. This is a new step toward a pollution-free Delhi. To provide people with a pleasant travel experience, electric buses have been introduced,” he said.
Singh also praised the speed and quality of the depot’s construction. “This terminal has been built in just 90 days and inaugurated with all modern amenities. For drivers, conductors, and the general public, RO drinking water and a large EV charging centre have been set up here,” he added.
Highlighting the growing importance of the Narela region, Chandoliya said, “Today, 105 electric DEVI buses are being flagged off from here. Many major government projects and universities are coming up in Narela.”
The 148th Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath commenced in Ahmedabad on Friday, seamlessly blending centuries-old tradition with state-of-the-art security arrangements.
Held annually on Ashadha Shukla Dwitiya (Ashadhi Bij), the Rath Yatra is India’s second-largest chariot festival after Puri, attracting lakhs of devotees from across Gujarat and beyond.
The day began with the sacred Mangla Aarti, performed by Union Home Minister Amit Shah at around 4:00 a.m., continuing his longstanding personal tradition.
Soon after, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel performed the symbolic ‘Pahind Vidhi’—the ceremonial sweeping of the road with a golden broom—before officially flagging off the Yatra by pulling Lord Jagannath’s chariot from the 400-year-old Jagannath Temple in Jamalpur.
The Yatra follows a 16-kilometre route through key parts of Ahmedabad’s walled city, with the holy chariots of Lord Jagannath, his brother Balbhadra, and sister Subhadra passing landmarks such as Jamalpur Chakla, Khadia, Kalupur Circle, and Saraspur, where locals traditionally host a grand feast for the deities and devotees.
The procession will be monitored through heightened surveillance.
This year, the Rath Yatra has evolved into a full-fledged Lokotsav (people’s festival), showcasing Gujarat’s rich cultural heritage. The grand spectacle features 18 decorated elephants, 100 tableau trucks, 30 akhadas performing martial arts, along with bhajan mandalis, raas-garba troupes, and traditional music bands.
The sacred duty of pulling the chariots continues to be led by the Khalashi community, upholding a revered centuries-old tradition.
To ensure safety and smooth conduct, the Ahmedabad Police have implemented one of the most extensive security operations in recent years. More than 23,800 personnel, including State Reserve Police (SRP) battalions, Rapid Action Force (RAF), and Chetak Commandos, are deployed. An additional 4,500 police officers are escorting the procession, with 1,000 traffic police managing vehicular movement across the city.
For the first time, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is being used for crowd management, enabling real-time monitoring of overcrowding and fire hazards.
A comprehensive surveillance system has been put in place with 227 CCTV cameras, 41 drones, 2,872 body-worn cameras, and 25 watchtowers keeping constant watch along the route. Precautionary barricading has been erected around 484 structurally weak buildings, and public assistance centers have been activated to support the crowd.
The run-up to the Yatra saw extensive community engagement efforts by the police, who conducted over 450 outreach meetings, including Peace Committees, Mohalla Committees, and Women’s Committees. In addition, interactive events such as cricket matches, blood donation camps, and volleyball tournaments were organised to foster civic unity and communal harmony.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Speech
UN Human Rights Council 59: Annual day on the human rights of women
Speech delivered by the UK’s Special Envoy for Women and Girls, Baroness Harriet Harman.
Thank you Madame Vice Chair,
I am pleased to join you here today to honour the role of women in leadership, decision making and diplomacy.
Trailblazing women, in diplomacy, politics and governments, and women peacebuilders and activists, like those who we have heard from today, have striven and have made so much progress. Yet more progress is needed.
We know that women suffer disproportionately in conflict, with sexual violence, displacement, and impacts on their health and their livelihoods.
Yet for the most part, they don’t have a seat at the table to bring about peace, making up just 16 per cent of negotiators in processes led or co-led by the UN.
Yet, we know that when women are part of peace processes, the resulting agreement is more than three times more likely to succeed.
It is not just that women are not included, they are actively silenced and excluded, facing active obstruction to their participation with threats, violence and reprisals, including online.
We must challenge this and change it.
As penholder on the Women Peace and Security agenda at the UN Security Council, the UK is determined to champion women’s effective and safe participation in all spheres of decision making.
As we approach the 25th anniversary of the agenda, we must work together, women and our male allies, to promote and defend women’s and girls’ rights and actively resist the misogynist insurgency which seeks to roll back women’s hard-won advances.
