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Category: Technology

  • MIL-OSI Africa: A toolkit for financial wellbeing, one rand, one habit, one goal at a time

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    By Thamsanqa Cele

    As Youth Month draws to a close for 2025, let us continue to keep in our minds, hearts and behaviours the courage the young people of the 1976 Soweto uprising, where they protested apartheid’s oppressive education policies, sparking a movement for
    equality. 

    Today, South Africa’s youth, 34.3% of the 60.6 million population, face significant economic challenges, including an over 60% unemployment rate. Rising living costs further strain budgets, making financial wellbeing critical. In honouring the 107 heroes, who were brave young people then, the young people of today face different kinds of challenges. Among them, financial well-being. Put differently, their own personal economic freedom. It is not an easy and straightforward world. Especially when considering the macro-economic environment. That said, it remains a personal journey that does not need to be tackled alone. We present a few of the many tools that young people may want to consider as they fight their way to financial well-being.

    The economic landscape

    South Africa’s youth face daunting economic hurdles. The unemployment rate for those aged 15–24 reached 62.4% in Q1 2025, while 40.4% of those aged 25–34 remain jobless. According to StatsSA, approximately 3.8 million young people are not in
    education, employment, or training (NEET), fostering a sense of hopelessness. Millions of young people are currently dependent on the lifeline of the Social Relief of Distress R370 grant. The high cost of living, driven by inflation, makes essentials like food,
    transport, and housing increasingly unaffordable. According to the South African Depression and Anxiety Group, financial stress affects ~60% of South Africans, contributing to anxiety and depression.

    Despite these lived challenges across the board, opportunities exist. Government initiatives like the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) and Youth Employment Services (YES) program provides funding, training, and work experience. By combining these resources with sound financial habits, the youth stand a better chance of achieving financial well-being, managing money to meet needs, handling emergencies, achieving goals, and improving their lives. This fosters economic stability and enhances mental health, reducing stress and boosting happiness.

    Why money management matters

    Financial stress is often the root of broader challenges. A large-scale study found that greater financial worries, especially among unemployed and low-income individuals, significantly increase psychological distress. Money is tightly linked with mental and
    even physical health. Financial strain can cause anxiety, poor sleep, and strained relationships, but learning to manage money may reverse these ills. Think of financial wellness as preventive healthcare. Like nutrition or exercise, sound financial habits help guard against crisis. As behavioural finance and mental health experts note, emergency savings build control and agency, two essential buffers for mental well-being. There are many helpful tools to engage in a journey to financial well-being. Some of these are:

    Tool #1: Start Budgeting – Know Where Every Rand Goes 

    A simple budget rule is: Essentials (50%), Life (30%), Savings (20%). The 50/30/20 rule is proven to improve emotional wellness by instilling spending control. It is a simple approach: allocate 50% of income to necessities (rent, food, transport), 30% to wants (entertainment, dining out), and 20% to savings or debt repayment. The 20% for savings and debts must be treated as a holy grail of securing a bright financial future, especially if it is skewed towards Savings.

    Tool #2: Build an Emergency Fund – Your First Safety Net 

    Saving, even small amounts, is crucial for financial security. An emergency fund covering 3 – 6 months of expenses (e.g. R15 000–R30 000 for R5 000 monthly costs) protects against unexpected costs like medical bills or job loss. Start with R100 monthly; over time this builds a significant buffer. With competitive interest rates, Postbank’s Smart Save account helps savings grow. Our customers use this account as a stash away from their main accounts in other banks. Because if you can see it, you will be tempted to use it. Multiple global studies have shown that an emergency fund reduces financial stress, lowers anxiety and reduces the risk of depression.

    Tool #3: Embrace Psychological Resilience Through Discipline

    Financial resilience builds mental resilience. Psychology research defines resilience as adapting successfully under stress when you feel in control. Ability and optimism follow. Money habits support coping in crisis, improve mood, and encourage growth.
    Holistic benefits include:
    * Reduced anxiety and stress
    * Better sleep, which improves physical health
    * Better relationships and social connections
    * Increased ability to seize new opportunities (jobs, entrepreneurship)
    * Mental clarity to focus on education, personal development, and productivity at
    work

    Tool #4: Side Hustles and Entrepreneurship

    Relying on one income source is risky in South Africa’s economy. Additional income streams provide security and accelerate financial goals. Some of the possible side hustles:
    * Freelancing: use what you are good at or that you understand better to freelance
    in areas like writing, designing, teaching, dancing, djaying, babysitting, etc.
    * Selling products: Create and sell handmade goods.
    * Small business: With NYDA support, you can start a low-cost venture like a car wash
    or food stall. The agency offers grants up to R50 000 and training.
    * YES placements, PYEI learnerships, SETA internships, and NYDA entrepreneurship
    support offer stipends, work experience, and business training.
    * Self-employment through grants and youth schemes – e.g. creative sector
    assistance, can seed small enterprises.

    Self-empower by taking advantage of the government-provided WiFi hotspots so you can use data at low costs, if not for free. South Africa’s public WiFi hotspot network, driven by SA Connect, a government program under the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies, provincial initiatives, and NGOs like Project Isizwe and Think WiFi, is opening doors for youth across the country. These hotspots are more than data points – they are gateways to education, jobs, civic engagement, and digital inclusion. By embracing these opportunities, young South Africans can transform their futures— accessing knowledge, growing skills, and connecting to their communities.

    Tool #5: Self-Control – Curbing your enthusiasm

    Many fall prey to the impulse to use spending as therapy. Yes, it may be for some who can afford to. Many others, already living beyond their means, tend to fall even deeper into the trap due to impulse-buying, falling foul of peer pressure and a show-
    off mentality. Before you buy it, ask yourself, does it have to be bought now? Can it be saved up for? Can it wait a little longer?

    A final call: Youth Month as a financial rebirth 

    Youth Month 2025 should mark a shift in the narrative:
    * From scrambling to survive, to building resilience through structured money habits.
    * From job-seeking alone to leveraging free government opportunities and saving
    on the payoff.
    * From worrying in silence to growing confidence, emotional control, and direction.

    Postbank is the national savings bank, ready to support every young South African who earns, learns, or aspires—with practical tools and accessible accounts. Postbank is trusted by millions of customers who have saved billions of rands with us. We are here
    to support young people with products that suit their needs. Products like the Smart Saver Account – accessible, competitive and needing as little as you can afford to save When youth learn to manage money, with buffers, budgets, and purpose, they don’t
    just survive, they thrive.

    Let this Youth Month ignite a movement, fuelled by practical habits, economic inclusion, and holistic well-being. We invite every young person to begin with building a savings buffer and continue toward a life of stability and possibilities. Partnering with the youth can help us enable their destiny, one rand, one habit, one goal at a time.

    *Thamsanqa Cele is the Chief Commercial Executive at PostBank

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • Iran issues stark warning to Trump ‘the gambler’: We will end this war

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Iran said on Monday that the U.S. attack on its nuclear sites expanded the range of legitimate targets for its armed forces and called U.S. President Donald Trump a “gambler” for joining Israel’s military campaign against the Islamic Republic.

    Since Trump joined Israel’s campaign by dropping massive bunker-buster bombs on Iranian nuclear sites on Sunday morning, Iran has repeatedly threatened to retaliate.

    But while it has continued to fire missiles at Israel, it has yet to take action against the United States itself, either by firing at U.S. bases or by targeting the 20% of global oil shipments that pass near its coast at the mouth of the Gulf.

    “Mr Trump, the gambler, you may start this war, but we will be the ones to end it,” Ebrahim Zolfaqari, spokesperson for Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya central military headquarters, said on Monday in English at the end of a recorded video statement.

    Iran and Israel traded another wave of air and missile strikes on Monday as the world braced for Tehran’s response.

    Trump’s administration has repeatedly said that its aim is solely to destroy Iran’s nuclear programme, not to open a wider war.

    But in a social media post on Sunday, Trump openly spoke of toppling the hardline clerical rulers who have been Washington’s principal foes in the Middle East since Iran’s 1979 revolution.

    “It’s not politically correct to use the term, ‘Regime Change,’ but if the current Iranian Regime is unable to MAKE IRAN GREAT AGAIN, why wouldn’t there be a Regime change??? MIGA!!!” he wrote.

    Experts surveying commercial satellite imagery said it appeared that the U.S. attack had severely damaged the site of Iran’s Fordow nuclear plant, built inside a mountain, and possibly destroyed it and the uranium-enriching centrifuges it housed, although there was no independent confirmation.

    Trump called the strike a “Bullseye!!!”.

    “Monumental Damage was done to all Nuclear sites in Iran,” he wrote. “The biggest damage took place far below ground level.”

    MORE ISRAELI STRIKES

    Israel’s airstrikes on Iran have met little resistance from Iranian defences since Israel launched its surprise attack on June 13, killing many of Iran’s top commanders.

    The Israeli military said on Monday that about 20 jets had conducted a wave of strikes against military targets in western Iran and Tehran overnight. ⁠In Kermanshah, in western Iran, missile and radar infrastructure was targeted, and in Tehran a surface-to-air missile launcher was struck, it said.

    Iranian news agencies reported air defences had been activated in central Tehran districts, and Israeli air strikes had hit Parchin, the location of a military complex southeast of the capital.

    Iran says more than 400 people have been killed in the Israeli attacks, mostly civilians, but has released few images of the damage since the initial days of the bombing. Tehran, a city of 10 million people, has largely emptied, with residents fleeing to the countryside to escape attacks.

    Iran’s retaliatory missile strikes on Israel have killed 24 people, all civilians, and injured hundreds, the first time a significant number of Iranian missiles have ever penetrated Israeli defences.

    The Israeli military said a missile launched from Iran in the early hours of Monday had been intercepted by Israeli defences. Air raid sirens blared overnight in Tel Aviv and other parts of central Israel.

    LIMITED RETALIATION

    Beyond those missiles, Iran’s ability to retaliate is far more limited than a few months ago, since Israel inflicted defeat on Iran’s most feared regional proxy force, Hezbollah in Lebanon, whose downfall was swiftly followed by that of Iran’s most powerful client ruler, Syria’s Bashar al-Assad.

    Iran’s most effective threat to hurt the West would probably be to restrict global oil flows from the Gulf. Oil prices spiked on Monday at their highest since January. But they have not yet shot up to crisis levels, indicating that traders see a path out of the conflict that avoids serious disruption.

    Brent crude futures were down 0.5% to $76.64 a barrel as of 0830 GMT, after briefly jumping above $80 at the opening.

    Iran’s parliament has approved a move to close the Strait of Hormuz that leads into the Gulf, which would require approval from the Supreme National Security Council, a body led by an appointee of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

    Attempting to strangle the strait could send global oil prices skyrocketing, derail the world economy and invite conflict with the U.S. Navy’s massive Fifth Fleet that patrols the Gulf from its base in Bahrain.

    “It’s economic suicide for them if they do it. And we retain options to deal with that,” U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said.

    As Tehran weighed its options, Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi was expected to hold talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow on Monday. The Kremlin has a strategic partnership with Iran, but also close links with Israel.

    Speaking in Istanbul on Sunday, Araqchi said his country would consider all possible responses and there would be no return to diplomacy until it had retaliated. TASS news agency later quoted him as saying Iran and Russia were coordinating their positions.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Industrial Strategy to boost growth and jobs in Wales

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Industrial Strategy to boost growth and jobs in Wales

    Modern Industrial Strategy will make the UK the best country to invest in and grow a business and support tens of thousands of new jobs in Wales.

    The UK’s Modern Industrial Strategy

    • Electricity costs for thousands of businesses to be slashed by up to 25%   
    • UK Government to establish a centre for doctoral training in semiconductors, led by Swansea University
    • Welsh businesses to benefit from innovation funding, access to finance, faster grid connections and better-equipped sites for expansion. 

    Wales is set for increased economic growth, billions in investment and tens of thousands of new jobs supported over the next decade as a result of the UK Government’s modern Industrial Strategy, which is published today (Monday 23 June).  

    The Strategy contains measures to forge a new relationship between business and government, making Wales and the UK the best place to start and scale up a business. 

    It will unlock growth across Wales, targeting areas of strength from the country’s strengths in aerospace in North Wales to the world’s first compound semiconductor cluster in South Wales.   

    More than 7,000 UK businesses are set to see their electricity bills slashed by up to 25%. British manufacturers currently pay some of the highest electricity prices in the developed world— in some cases, double the European average, while businesses looking to expand or modernise have faced delays when it comes to connecting to the grid.

    For too long these challenges have held back growth and made it harder for firms to compete globally. Today’s announcement marks a decisive shift — with government stepping in to support industry and unlock the UK’s economic potential.

    From 2027, the new British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme will reduce electricity costs by up to £40 per megawatt hour for over 7,000 electricity-intensive businesses in manufacturing sectors like automotive, aerospace and chemicals.

    These firms, which support over 300,000 skilled jobs across the UK will be exempt from paying levies such as the Renewables Obligation, Feed-in Tariffs and the Capacity Market — helping level the playing field and make them more internationally competitive. Eligibility and further details on the exemptions will be determined following consultation, which will be launched shortly.

    The UK Government is also increasing support for the most energy-intensive firms — like steel, chemicals, and glass — by covering more of the electricity network charges they normally have to pay through the British Industry Supercharger. These businesses currently get a 60% discount on those charges, but from 2026, that will increase to 90%. This means their electricity bills will go down, helping them stay competitive, protect jobs, and invest in the future.

    These reforms complement the government’s long-term mission for clean power, which is the only way to bring down bills for good by ending the UK’s dependency on volatile fossil fuel markets.

    The Industrial Strategy is a 10-year plan to promote business investment and growth and make it quicker, easier and cheaper to do business in the UK, giving businesses the confidence to invest and create 1.1 million good, well-paid jobs in thriving industries – delivering on this government’s Plan for Change. 

    Wales is already punching above its weight in many of the growth driving sectors set out in the Industrial Strategy. 

    The key measures for Wales are: 

    • More than £4bn for the advanced manufacturing sector in the UK over the next 5 years. Wales has a leading advanced manufacturing sector with companies such as Airbus based in Broughton in north Wales. 

    • UK Government to establish a centre for doctoral training in semiconductors, led by Swansea University, building on the world-leading cluster based in south Wales.   

    • A Defence Growth Deal cluster to build on Wales’s major strengths. The top five Ministry of Defence suppliers all have a footprint in Wales. 

    • A new British Business Bank champion for the Cardiff Capital Region to connect investors with businesses and kickstart growth. 

    • £30m for a Local Innovation Partnerships Fund in Wales to work with the Welsh Government and Innovate UK to grow innovation.  

    • The National Wealth Fund working with the Development Bank of Wales to identify and secure financing for investment projects in Wales. 

    • Support for the UK’s city regions and clusters by increasing the supply of investible sites through a new £600m Strategic Sites Accelerator, enhanced regional support from the Office for Investment, National Wealth Fund, and British Business Bank, and more. 

    • Strengthened support from the Office for Investment to help identify, shape and deliver strategic investment opportunities across the UK. 

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:  

    This Industrial Strategy marks a turning point for Britain’s economy and a clear break from the short-termism and sticking plasters of the past.

    In an era of global economic instability, it delivers the long term certainty and direction British businesses need to invest, innovate and create good jobs that put more money in people’s pockets as part of the plan for change.

    This is how we power Britain’s future – by backing the sectors where we lead, removing the barriers that hold us back, and setting out a clear path to build a stronger economy that works for working people. Our message is clear – Britain is back and open for business.

    Secretary of State for Wales Jo Stevens said: 

    Wales has huge potential and our government’s Industrial Strategy will harness the strengths of our businesses and workforce to drive growth and create jobs. 

    The strategy will support key sectors like aerospace and compound semiconductors while developing industries of the future like floating offshore wind where Wales is well-placed to be a world leader. 

    Our modern Industrial Strategy is built to last and make Wales one of the best places to invest and do business. Working alongside Welsh Government we will boost growth, raise wages and create wealth across our country.”  

    Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said: 

    We’ve said from day one Britain is back in business under this government, and the £100 billion of investment we’ve secured in the past year shows our Plan for Change is already delivering for working people. 

    Our Modern Industrial Strategy will ensure the UK is the best country to invest and do business, delivering economic growth that puts more money in people’s pockets and pays for our NHS, schools and military. 

    Not only does this Strategy prioritise investment to attract billions for new business sites, cutting-edge research, and better transport links, it will also make our industrial energy prices globally competitive.  

    Tackling energy costs and fixing skills has been the single biggest ask of us from businesses and the greatest challenge they’ve faced – this government has listened, and now we’re taking the bold action needed. Government and business working hand in hand to make working people better of is what this Government promised and what we will deliver.” 

    Sarah Williams-Gardener, Chair of Fintech Wales, said:

    We are delighted to see financial services recognised as a key sector in this Industrial Strategy. We look forward to working closely with the Government to help unlock the sector’s full potential. 

    The emphasis on AI and the compute power required to support its development is particularly welcome, as we begin to see generative AI driving innovation across financial services—empowering both providers and customers through the next generation of digital banking platforms.

    Frank Holmes, Founding Partner of Gambit Corporate Finance and Chair of the Cardiff Capital Region Investment Board, said: 

    Today’s announcements mark a timely and important shift towards a connected, strategic approach to economic growth. The renewed focus on industrial strategy and SME finance speaks directly to the opportunities we are unlocking in the Cardiff Capital Region. We have backed innovative and scalable businesses like Whisper TV, showcasing how tailored regional finance can drive job creation, innovation and global reach.  

    The UK’s commitment to extending SME access to finance aligns perfectly with the ecosystem we are building  in CCR as a proven delivery partner and a model for regional economic development.” 

    Louise Harris, CEO of Tramshed Tech in Cardiff, said: 

    The launch of the UK Government’s Industrial Strategy is a pivotal moment for our tech and innovation ecosystem. By aligning local strengths with national ambition, this strategy provides a powerful platform for Welsh businesses to grow, attract investment and lead in emerging sectors such as technology, advanced manufacturing, and creative industries.  

    This strategy recognises that innovation isn’t just about technology in isolation – it’s about creating sustainable, high-quality jobs while tackling real-world challenges. This approach will create the perfect environment for startups and scale-ups to thrive, knowing they have both the infrastructure, skills and strategic support to take their innovations from Wales to the world.” 

    The Industrial Strategy is a 10-year plan to promote business investment and growth and make it quicker, easier and cheaper to do business in the UK, giving businesses the confidence to invest and create good, well-paid jobs in thriving industries – delivering on this government’s Plan for Change. 

    Investment from private companies is essential to creating new jobs, growing the economy and securing public services. That is why the Strategy will also introduce measures to make it quicker, easier and more profitable for businesses to invest in the UK, with the aim of significantly increasing businesses investment and in key growth sectors by 2035 and helping to create 1.1 million well paid jobs across all corners of the UK. 

    It will realise Wales’ economic potential and raise wages and living standards to a level that the people of Wales deserve.  

    The UK Government’s plans address the main barriers to growth, making it easier and quicker to do business and invest in Wales.  

    The Strategy’s bold plan of action includes: 

    • Slashing electricity costs by 20-25% to level the playing field for energy-hungry industries like chemicals and key growth sectors like automotive. 

    • Unlocking billions in finance for innovative business, especially for SMEs by increasing British Business Bank capacity to £25.6 billion, crowding in tens of billions of pounds more in private capital.  

    • Reducing regulatory burdens by cutting the administrative costs of regulation for business by 25% and reduce the number of regulators.   

    • Boosting R&D spending to £22.6bn per year by 2029-30 to drive innovation across the IS-8, with more than £2bn for AI over the Spending Review, and £2.8bn for advanced manufacturing over the next ten years. This will leverage in billions more from private investors. Regulatory changes will further clear the path for fast-growing industries and innovative products such as biotechnology, AI, and autonomous vehicles.

    • Attracting elite global talent to our key sectors, via visa and migrations reforms and a new the Global Talent Taskforce.  

    • Revolutionising public procurement and reducing barriers for new entrants and SMEs to bolster domestic competitiveness.  

    Five sector plans have also been published today:

    • Advanced Manufacturing – Backing our Advanced Manufacturing sector with up to £4.3 billion in funding, including up to £2.8 billion in R&D over the next five years, with the aim of anchoring supply chains in the UK – from increasing vehicle production to 1.35 million, to leading the next generation of technologies for zero emission flight.

    • Clean Energy Industries – Doubling investment in Clean Energy Industries by 2035, with Great British Energy helping to build the clean power revolution in Britain with a further £700 million in clean energy supply chains, taking the total funding for the Great British Energy Supply Chain fund to £1 billion.

    • Creative Industries – Maximizing the value of our Creative Industries through a £380 million boost for film and TV, video games, advertising and marketing, music and visual and performing arts will improve access to finance for scale-ups and increase R&D, skills and exports.

    • Digital and Technologies – Making the UK the European leader for creating and scaling Digital and Technology businesses, with more than £2 billion to drive the AI Action Plan, including a new Sovereign AI Programme and targeting R&D investment at frontier technologies such as cyber security in Northern Ireland, semiconductors in Wales and quantum technologies in Scotland. 

    • Professional and Business Services – Ensuring our Professional and Business Services becomes the world’s most trusted adviser to global industry, revolutionising the sector across the world through adoption of UK-grown AI and working to secure mutual recognition of professional qualifications agreements overseas.

    ENDS

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Changes in prescription medication could help identify cancer earlier The University of Aberdeen is partnering in a new study funded by Cancer Research UK that could help detect cancer earlier by analysing the medications patients are prescribed before they are diagnosed.

    Source: University of Aberdeen

    The University of Aberdeen is partnering in a new study funded by Cancer Research UK that could help detect cancer earlier by analysing the medications patients are prescribed before they are diagnosed.
    Led by Queen’s University Belfast, the research will explore whether patterns in prescription data can act as early warning signs for cancer, enabling earlier diagnosis and improving treatment outcomes.
    With around 385,000 across the UK being diagnosed with cancer each year finding new ways to diagnose cancer earlier, is vital.*
    Professor Peter Murchie from the University of Aberdeen is part of the expert team, led by Queen’s University Belfast, working on the study which will use extensive anonymised prescription data from the Secure Anonymised Information Linkage (SAIL) Databank at Swansea University+.
    The research will examine whether an increase in the strength or frequency of medication for symptoms such as pain, indigestion, or bleeding might reflect underlying conditions – such as ovarian or colorectal cancer – that have not yet been formally diagnosed.
    Codes used in the NHS to indicate medication prescriptions are easier to analyse and track than symptoms and can be flagged more easily to medical colleagues than notes on a patient’s record saying a symptom is worsening.
    Previous studies have already shown increased use of pain and indigestion medication in women with ovarian cancer up to eight months before diagnosis and increases in haemorrhoid treatments in patients with colorectal cancer up to 15 months before diagnosis.
    Professor Chris Cardwell, of Queen’s University Belfast, said: “Our study has the potential to identify previously unrecognised medications which are newly used in the period up to two years before cancer diagnosis.
    “These changes in specific medications could act as an alert for doctors to consider earlier cancer investigation or point to unrecognised symptom patterns.
    “Diagnosing cancer as early as possible is key to ensuring treatment is as effective as possible and give patients the best chance of recovery.”
    The study, which will receive £76,462 from Cancer Research UK, will focus on eight cancers: multiple myeloma, pancreatic, stomach, ovarian, lung, renal, colorectal and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma – selected because these cancers are known to involve more GP consultations prior to diagnosis.
    Currently, there are many symptoms and medical conditions known to be associated with cancer, but often symptoms can indicate a variety of conditions, not just cancer, making diagnosis harder.
    The research will be the first of its kind to study prescription information comprehensively in the UK. Similar studies have been carried out overseas and smaller studies conducted looking at fewer cancer types in the UK.
    Cancer Research UK Director of Research, Dr Catherine Elliott, said: “Innovative approaches to tackling cancer are crucial to improving outcomes for patients. We have already made great strides in turning many types of cancer into a treatable disease if diagnosed at an early stage, and studies like this aim to help doctors identify people at risk of cancer much earlier.
    “Earlier diagnosis takes us further along the path towards a world where cancer diagnosis is the start of the road to recovery and a less fearful prospect for patients.”
    Professor Peter Murchie of the University of Aberdeen added: “This is an exciting study hoping to find out how our increasingly sophisticated health records can be used for the maximum patient benefit. We know symptoms of cancer can develop slowly, changes in our prescription data could become a very important early warning signal to prompt busy GPs.”
    Other members of the research team include Professor Carmel Hughes, Dr Sarah Baxter, Dr David Wright and Dr Blánaid Hicks of Queen’s University Belfast
    Nearly one in two people born in the UK will get cancer in their lifetime.**

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Statement by President Meloni on the Jubilee of Governments

    Source: Government of Italy (English)

    We will treasure the valuable lessons that Pope Leo XIV imparted to us in the Vatican this morning, on the occasion of the Jubilee of Governments.

    The Holy Father reminded us that politics should be interpreted as a mission and not as a profession, and called upon all those holding political office and positions of responsibility to never lose sight of human dignity, to always work for the good of the community, to protect the family and life, and to promote the integral education of youth.

    His reflection on natural law constituting a compass to guide legislators and political action was particularly powerful. Equally as significant were the Pope’s cautionary words regarding the huge ethical, legal and anthropological challenges triggered by artificial intelligence. Italy will continue its commitment, at both national and international level, to ensure the development of AI is human-governed and human-centred.

    We will also continue to do our part to defend religious freedom, a natural right preceding all legal formulations but which is still unfortunately suppressed in too many of the world’s nations.

    [Courtesy translation]

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Tech innovators backed to set up and scale up in Britain through Industrial Strategy

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 2

    Press release

    Tech innovators backed to set up and scale up in Britain through Industrial Strategy

    Ambitious Digital and Technologies Sector Plan to help deliver government’s modern Industrial Strategy to drive national renewal and our Plan for Change.

    • Ambitious Digital and Technologies Sector Plan to help deliver government’s modern Industrial Strategy to drive national renewal and our Plan for Change
    • £670 million in investment to accelerate impact of quantum computers from energy to healthcare
    • Engineering biology researchers in line for £380 million to advance cutting-edge research such as in life-saving medicines and sustainable food

    Innovators driving future technologies like quantum computers to deliver new life-saving medicines and semiconductors powering the next generation of mobile phones are being backed by well over £1 billion to set up and scale up their businesses in Britain, Science and Technology Secretary Peter Kyle has announced.

    Investment will include landmark funding for the UK’s mission to develop quantum computers that could unearth game-changing discoveries for our health and environment, the establishment of a new national semiconductor centre laser-focused on helping firms to scale-up, and new backing for engineering biology researchers working on everything from new vaccines to eco-friendly fuels.

    The package will drive the Digital and Technologies Sector Plan within our modern Industrial Strategy published today (Monday 23 June), a pivotal moment in the government’s agenda for national renewal and in supporting our mission as part of the Plan for Change to deliver the highest sustained economic growth in the G7.

    To ensure the UK is in pole position to make the most of quantum computing’s potential to improve our everyday lives, £670 million will be dedicated to accelerating the application of this revolutionary technology.

    It makes the National Quantum Computing Centre one of the first organisations to receive a 10-year funding settlement, providing long-term certainty to researchers that marks Britain as the place to do business when it comes to cutting edge tech.

    By 2035, the UK aims to develop quantum computers capable of outperforming conventional supercomputers, potentially meaning new drugs for incurable diseases or better carbon capture technologies, supporting our missions of building an NHS that is fit for the future and making Britain a green clean energy superpower as part of the plan for change.

    Science and Technology Secretary, Peter Kyle, said:

    Britain is full of ambitious risk-takers driven by a desire to innovate and improve people’s everyday lives. It is on us in government to match that boldness by investing in our country’s immense potential and embracing businesses who can drive that change and grow our economy.

    From quantum computers that could revolutionise drug discovery and make the NHS fit for the future, to sustainable fuels that can make the UK a clean energy superpower, science and technology has a key part to play in delivering our modern Industrial Strategy to renew our country and support our Plan for Change.

    In engineering biology, a £380 million investment will support researchers working on everything from new life-saving medicines to cell-cultivated meats and climate-resilient crops, to protect our environment and strengthen food security.

    Of this, £184 million will help bridge the gap between laboratory discoveries and commercial applications through infrastructure supporting innovators to scale up. The remaining £196 million will be invested in research and development through the National Engineering Biology Programme, bolstering the UK’s significant strengths in this field.

    Further initial investment includes:

    The commitment of £54 million to bring the world’s top science and tech talent to the UK. As the UK competes for the highest skilled individuals in priority industries, the launch of the government’s Global Talent Taskforce signals a greater focus on targeting and attracting the brightest and best talent to supercharge growth.

    A new UK Semiconductor Centre, backed by up to £19 million, will serve as a single point of contact for global firms and governments to engage with the UK semiconductor sector, helping our ambitious firms to scale-up, form new partnerships and strengthen the UK’s role in global supply chains – benefiting us all in helping to grow the economy.

    £35 million to scale up the recently announced Semiconductor Talent Expansion Programme – including new chip design courses for students, bursaries, schools outreach, and a proposed master’s conversion course to help more people move into the sector.

    £370 million for cutting-edge, UK-developed technologies to deliver advanced connectivity improving coverage for communities, providing connectivity across transport networks, and supporting defence applications – like drones.

    It includes a £240 million Advanced Connectivity Tech R&D programme, and a further £130 million will go towards strengthening the capabilities of the UK Telecoms Lab, enhancing the security and reliability of our networks.

    Building on a successful round of semiconductor Innovation and Knowledge Centres launched earlier this year, the government is providing funding for 2 additional centres, backed by £25 million.

    £10 million to expand Cyber ASAP supporting 25 academic teams annually, plus £2 million for Belfast’s Cyber AI Hub, aiming to support 28 academic spinouts by 2030.

    £6 million to extend Cyber Runway accelerator, supporting 60 startups annually with mentoring, skills development and networking to improve survival rates and growth.

    £24 million to promote CHERI blueprint adoption for designing secure next-generation chips.

    Find the full modern Industrial Strategy here.

    Notes to editors

    Further funding set out in the strategy includes:

    • Up to £330 million investment through the National Security Strategic Investment Fund for UK security and defence capabilities, plus a second year of the Science and Technology Venture Capital Fellowship to support digital and technology investments.
    • The Sector Plan also highlights AI as a frontier technology, following £2 billion committed at the Spending Review to implement the AI Opportunities Action Plan. The investment reaffirms the government’s commitment to deliver all 50 recommendations outlined in the Plan and underpins the Industrial Strategy’s approach to prioritise frontier technologies with the greatest growth potential.

    DSIT media enquiries

    Email press@dsit.gov.uk

    Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 6pm 020 7215 3000

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Timor-Leste strengthens logistics coordination for emergency preparedness

    Source: World Food Programme

    DILI – As part of ongoing efforts to strengthen national disaster response capacity, the Civil Protection Authority (CPA) and the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), with support from the Logistics Cluster’s Field-Based Preparedness Project (FBPP), are hosting the second Humanitarian Logistics Preparedness Workshop this week in the capital Dili.

    This second workshop, with 100 participants from the Government, humanitarian sector and civil society, builds on previous initiatives, such as the Inception Workshop in November 2024 and the Humanitarian Simulation Exercise held the following month, which helped identify critical areas to improve emergency logistics coordination and set the stage for further collaboration. 

    It aims to advance discussions around the creation of a Logistics Technical Working Group for Timor-Leste, to foster a more coordinated, efficient and timely emergency logistics system. The workshop will also help align the working group’s actions with national priorities.

    “Timor-Leste faces multiple risks due to its geography and climate. Strengthening logistics coordination across sectors is crucial to ensure our emergency responses are efficient and reach those most in need,” said Jesuino dos Reis Matos Carvalho, President of the Civil Protection Authority. “This workshop is part of our broader commitment to building a more resilient and prepared nation.”

    WFP, through the FBPP and its partnership with the Logistics Cluster, has been working closely with national institutions to strengthen logistics preparedness at multiple levels.

     “By investing in emergency logistics coordination today, Timor-Leste is taking concrete steps to reduce the impact of disasters tomorrow,” said Jacqueline de Groot, WFP Representative in Timor-Leste. “This strategic engagement is an important milestone in our shared journey toward building stronger systems that save lives and protect livelihoods.” 

    By drawing on the collective expertise of a broad group of experts, the dialogue aims to shape the way forward for more effective emergency logistics coordination in Timor-Leste.

    #                 #                   #

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

    Follow us on Twitter @wfp_media and Facebook www.facebook.com/wfptimor/  

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: New INTERPOL report warns of sharp rise in African cybercrime

    Source: Interpol (news and events)

    Two-thirds of African member countries said cyber-related offences accounted for a medium-to-high share of all crimes

    • Cybercrime accounts for more than 30 per cent of all reported crime in Western and Eastern Africa.
    • Online scams, ransomware, business email compromise and digital sextortion are the most reported cyberthreats.
    • 90 per cent of African countries report needing ‘significant improvement’ in law enforcement or prosecution capacity.

    LYON, France: A growing share of reported crimes in Africa is cyber-related, according to INTERPOL’s 2025 Africa Cyberthreat Assessment Report.

    Two-thirds of the Organization’s African member countries surveyed said that cyber-related crimes accounted for a medium-to-high share of all crimes, rising to 30 per cent in Western and Eastern Africa.

    Online scams, particularly through phishing, were the most frequently reported cybercrimes in Africa, while ransomware, business email compromise (BEC) and digital sextortion also remain widespread.

    Neal Jetton, INTERPOL Cybercrime Director, said:

    “This fourth edition of the INTERPOL African Cyberthreat Assessment provides a vital snapshot of the current situation, informed by operational intelligence, extensive law enforcement engagement and strategic private-sector collaboration. It paints a clear picture of a threat landscape in flux, with emerging dangers like AI-driven fraud that demand urgent attention. No single agency or country can face these challenges alone.”

    Ambassador Jalel Chelba, Acting Executive Director of AFRIPOL, said:

    “Cybersecurity is not merely a technical issue; it has become a fundamental pillar of stability, peace, and sustainable development in Africa. It directly concerns the digital sovereignty of states, the resilience of our institutions, citizen trust and the proper functioning of our economies.”

    Africa’s top cyberthreats

    In the past year, suspected scam notifications rose by up to 3,000 per cent in some African countries, according to data from Kaspersky – one of several private sector partners that works with INTERPOL’s cybercrime directorate.

    Ransomware detections in Africa also rose in 2024, with South Africa and Egypt suffering the highest number, at 17,849 and 12,281 detections respectively according to data from Trend Micro, followed by other highly digitized economies such as Nigeria (3,459) and Kenya (3,030).

    Incidents included attacks on critical infrastructure, such as a breach at Kenya’s Urban Roads Authority (KURA), and on government databases, such as hacks of Nigeria’s National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).

    BEC-related incidents also rose significantly, with 11 African nations accounting for the majority of BEC activity originating on the continent. In West Africa, BEC fraud has driven highly organized, multi-million-dollar criminal enterprises, such as transnational syndicate Black Axe.

    Sixty per cent of African member countries reported an increase in reports of digital sextortion, where threat actors use sexually explicit images to blackmail their targets. The images can be authentic – shared voluntarily or obtained through coercion or deception – or they can be generated by artificial intelligence.

    Law enforcement challenges

    Cybercrime continues to outpace the legal systems designed to stop it, according to African law enforcement. Seventy-five per cent of countries surveyed said their legal frameworks and prosecution capacity needed improvement.

    At the same time, countries also reported struggling to enforce the existing laws on cybercrime, with 95 per cent of respondents reported inadequate training, resource constraints and a lack of access to specialized tools.

    Despite rising caseloads, most African member countries surveyed still lack essential IT infrastructure to combat cybercrime. Just 30 per cent of countries reported having an incident reporting system, 29 per cent a digital evidence repository and 19 per cent a cyberthreat intelligence database.

    While cybercrime routinely crosses national borders, 86 per cent of African member countries surveyed said their international cooperation capacity needs improvement due to slow, formal processes, a lack of operational networks, and limited access to platforms and foreign-hosted data.

    Cybercrime investigations increasingly rely on cooperation from private sector partners, yet 89 per cent of African countries said their cooperation with the private sector needed ‘significant’ or ‘some’ improvement due to unclear channels for engagement, low institutional readiness and other barriers.

    Strengthening cyber resilience

    Nevertheless, the INTERPOL report also details positive steps that many African member countries have made to strengthen their cyber resilience.

    Several African countries advanced their legal frameworks, harmonizing cybersecurity laws with international standards. Many countries also enhanced their cybercrime response capabilities, investing in specialized units and digital forensics infrastructure.

    This increased operational capacity was demonstrated in two high-impact international cybercrime operations coordinated by INTERPOL – Operation Serengeti and Operation Red Card – which collectively led to more than 1,000 arrests and the dismantling of hundreds of thousands of malicious networks.

    To further improve Africa’s cybercrime response capabilities, the INTERPOL report proposes six strategic recommendations, including improving regional and international cooperation, expanding prevention and public awareness, and leveraging emerging technologies.

    INTERPOL’s Africa Cyberthreat Assessment is part of the Organization’s African Joint Operation against Cybercrime (AFJOC) initiative, which is aimed at strengthening the capability of African law enforcement to prevent, detect, investigate and disrupt cybercrime. The AFJOC initiative is supported by the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

    In addition to information gathered from INTERPOL member countries in Africa, the Assessment benefits from data contributed by private sector partners Bi.Zone, Group-IB, Kaspersky and Trend Micro.

    Download the INTERPOL’s 2025 Africa Cyberthreat Assessment Report via the link below.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: AI breakthroughs drive expansion of ‘Airlock’ testing programme to support AI-powered healthcare innovation

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    AI breakthroughs drive expansion of ‘Airlock’ testing programme to support AI-powered healthcare innovation

    MHRA opens second round of applications to test cutting-edge AI medical technologies following successful pilot phase.

    A £1 million boost to the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency’s (MHRA) pioneering AI Airlock programme will expand access to a first-of-its-kind regulatory testing ground where companies can work directly with regulators to safely test new AI-powered medical devices and explore how to bring them to patients faster, through streamlined regulations.

    Applications for the second round of the programme open today (23 June 2025) and follow a successful pilot phase that saw four breakthrough AI technologies, including software that could help doctors create personalised cancer treatment plans, and a tool to help hospitals, AI developers, and regulators monitor AI performance in real time, tested in a regulatory ‘sandbox’ environment.

    Similar to an airlock on a spacecraft, the ‘sandbox’ testing space creates a boundary between experimental AI and fully approved medical technology used in the real world.

    This initiative builds on commitments in the Government’s AI Opportunities Action Plan and the government response to the Regulatory Horizons Council report on regulation of AI as a medical device to enable safe AI innovation through strategic guidance to regulators and enhance their AI capabilities.

    This programme is backed by the Government’s new Regulatory Innovation Office (RIO), which is supporting regulators to test more agile, flexible ways of working that can keep pace with emerging technologies like AI. By cutting unnecessary red tape and making the UK a more innovation-friendly environment, the RIO is helping to deliver the Government’s Plan for Change – backing high-growth industries, supporting NHS innovation, and accelerating technologies that can make a real difference to people’s lives.

    Science Minister, Lord Vallance, said:

    “Backing innovation means backing better regulation – and that’s what the RIO is here to do.

    “Smarter, faster approaches like the AI Airlock are helping to cut red tape, bring safe new technologies to patients quicker, and ease pressure on our NHS – fuelling the Government’s Plan for Change.”

    Health Minister, Baroness Merron, said:

    “AI has huge potential to improve healthcare, and we need to use it safely and responsibly. The AI Airlock programme is a great example of how we can test new technology thoroughly while still moving quickly.

    “This £1 million investment will help bring new medical tools to patients faster and strengthen the UK’s position as a global leader in healthcare innovation.”

    Those selected for the next round of the AI Airlock programme will be able to test their AI healthcare products under careful supervision allowing for regulatory challenges to be identified early and adjustments made.

    James Pound, MHRA Interim Executive Director, Innovation and Compliance, said:

    “Traditional regulatory pathways weren’t designed with AI’s unique characteristics in mind – including its capacity to analyse large quantities of data and help automate existing manual processes. The AI Airlock programme helps address this gap by creating a supervised testing ground where these novel technologies and challenge areas can be safely investigated.

    “The technologies and devices which have been evaluated to date have shown the limitless potential of AI to improve patient outcomes, free up NHS resources, and enhance the accuracy and efficiency of healthcare services.

    “With AI, we must balance robust oversight with flexibility that doesn’t stifle innovation, and this programme achieves that balance.”

    Four projects were selected for the inaugural AI Airlock cohort, each focused on addressing critical healthcare challenges using AI. Among them was health technology multinational Philips’ Radiology Auto Impression project which tested the use of generative AI to automate the writing of radiologists’ final impressions – a critical section of radiology reports that summarises key findings from imaging procedures.

    Working directly with MHRA experts through weekly meetings, the team gained valuable insights about the need to involve their end users – radiologists – to help define testing strategies. As Yinnon Dolev, Philips’ Advanced Development NLP (Natural Language Processing) Tech Lead noted, the collaboration with regulators was “almost unheard of” and provided “a catalyst for meaningful progress expediting our development activities.”

    OncoFlow, another first round project, looked at the use of AI to help healthcare professionals create personalised management plans for cancer patients, with the potential to reduce waiting times for cancer appointments, leading to earlier treatment and the possibility of significantly increasing patients’ chances of survival. Co-founder Aruni Ghose said the Airlock programme provided his team with the chance to validate the product in a simulated clinical setting and “pressure-test it against real regulatory standards” which has helped the company accelerate its progress “from idea to a validated MVP (Minimum Viable Product).”

    Rounding out the cohort have been two projects; one by Automedica Ltd, investigating the regulatory advantages of using retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) technologies with verified knowledge bases and Large Language Models (LLMs); and the other by health tech startup Newton’s Tree testing its Federated AI Monitoring Service (FAMOS) to identify and mitigate AI risks in clinical settings, including performance drift or safety issues.

    Results from all four pilot projects will be published later this year, providing valuable insights that will shape the AI Airlock programme moving forward and help inform broader regulatory approaches to the effective and safe use AI in healthcare.

    Eligible candidates for the second cohort must demonstrate that their AI-powered medical device has the potential to deliver significant benefits to patients and the NHS, presents a new treatment approach, and offers a regulatory challenge ready to be tested in the Airlock programme.

    Applications for cohort two open on 23 June 2025 and will close on 14 July 2025.

    Notes to editors

    • Applications for the AI Airlock programme’s second cohort are open from 23 June – 14 July 2025. More information can be found at AI Airlock: the regulatory sandbox for AIaMD – GOV.UK.

    • The programme was launched in Spring 2024 and is the MHRA’s first regulatory sandbox for AI as a Medical Device (AIaMD) products.

    • The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is responsible for regulating all medicines and medical devices in the UK by ensuring they work and are acceptably safe. All work is underpinned by robust and fact-based judgements to ensure that benefits justify any risks.

    • The MHRA is an executive agency of the Department of Health and Social Care.

    • For media enquiries, please contact newscentre@mhra.gov.uk or call 020 3080 7651.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • Missile Alarms in Jerusalem as U.S.-Iran Tensions Ignite New Escalation in West Asia

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Jerusalem was gripped by fresh anxiety today as a missile was spotted overhead, followed by distant explosions, according to a Reuters report. The Israeli military subsequently activated air raid sirens across central and southern Israel, citing further incoming missile threats from Iran. The development comes amid heightened tensions in West Asia, following U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities.

    Over the past ten days, central Israel has sustained heavy damage, with repeated attacks also hitting the northern port city of Haifa. The ongoing conflict has significantly raised fears of a broader regional war, prompting renewed diplomatic efforts. High-level talks are reportedly underway in Moscow in a bid to defuse the crisis.

    China has called on both Iran and Israel to de-escalate hostilities. “The Chinese side urges the parties to the conflict to prevent the situation from escalating repeatedly, resolutely avoid the spillover of war, and return to the path of political resolution,” said foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun on Monday.

    Meanwhile, Spain’s foreign minister announced plans to urge the European Union to suspend a key cooperation agreement with Israel and to consider a weapons embargo, stating that Europe “must show courage” in response to the escalating violence.

    In the U.S., President Donald Trump stirred debates by reviving talk of regime change in Iran. In a social media post, he questioned the legitimacy of the current Iranian leadership and wrote, “If they can’t MAKE IRAN GREAT AGAIN—why wouldn’t there be a Regime change???”

    Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, has arrived in the Russian capital for high-stakes talks with Russia’s top leadership. As a long-standing ally of Iran and a significant power in the region, Russia is viewed as a potential mediator in this deepening crisis.

    The discussions are expected to concentrate on de-escalation strategies, broader regional security concerns, and exploring any viable diplomatic pathways to resolve the ongoing hostilities.

    While Russian officials have indicated their readiness to play a constructive role in facilitating peace, the path forward remains highly uncertain. The international community, including the United Nations and other key global powers, continues to closely monitor the volatile situation, issuing urgent calls for restraint and dialogue from all parties involved.

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Director General David Cheng-Wei Wu and Mrs. Wu Attended the First Planning Meeting of the 2025 Double Tenth Celebration Committee

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    The 2025 Double Tenth Celebration Committee held its first planning meeting today, chaired by Chairperson Michael Wu. The meeting was well attended by Overseas Community Affairs Council (OCAC) Commissioners Johnson Hsiung and Shirley Chen, as well as community leaders and representatives from various organizations. Director General David Cheng-Wei Wu and Mrs. Wu were also invited to participate.
    Chairperson Wu expressed his hope that senior members of the Taiwanese community would continue to offer their valuable guidance and share their experiences. He also looked forward to greater involvement from the younger generation, to carry on the proud traditions of the Taiwanese community in Sydney. He also gave a briefing on this year’s National Day Gala theme: “Reflections of Culture in an Age of Technology,” which explores how Taiwan’s traditional culture continues to thrive and evolve in the digital era. From classical art forms to innovative reinterpretations, the event highlights the harmony between heritage and technology — showcasing Taiwan’s identity in a modern world.
    DG Wu first thanked last year’s Chairperson, Sophia Huang, for her dedication and hard work. DG Wu also commended Chairperson Wu for taking on the responsibility despite his busy schedule. He noted that this year’s theme, which focuses on technology, fully reflects Taiwan’s leading position in the global high-tech industry — with TSMC standing as a pinnacle of semiconductor excellence and cutting-edge research. DG Wu expressed deep appreciation for the unity of the Taiwanese community and their continued support for the government of R.O.C.(Taiwan). Finally, this year’s National Day Gala will be held on the evening of Double Ten Day, symbolizing the celebration’s anticipated success.
    The committee also presented budget requirements and outlined the plans of related events. Chairperson Wu thoughtfully prepared a selection of delicious food to thank community members for their participation and support.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: African Mining Week 2025 Set to Drive Investment and Sustainable Growth


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    In the fast-changing mineral economy, African Mining Week (AMW) 2025 – taking place October 1-3 in Cape Town – is set to become the definitive platform for shaping the future of the African mining industry. Taking place under the theme: From Extraction to Beneficiation: Unlocking Africa’s Mineral Wealth, the event will unite the global and African mining industries to engage in dialogue and sign deals. To meet the expected rise in global demand, mineral production will need to increase by nearly 500% by 2050. AMW 2025 positions Africa at the heart of global supply chains, turning policy into progress and opportunity into action.

    A Launchpad for African Mining Projects

    Through its investment-focused program, AMW 2025 will drive capital into African mining projects, connecting players from across the global industry while fostering partnerships, deal-signing and dialogue. The event takes place at a time when the international community is seeking new mineral investment opportunities while African countries are targeting greater production and mineral beneficiation. Notably, Zimbabwe plans to build a $12 billion economy by 2030 on the back of its mining industry; Angola strives to increase diamond production to 17.53 million carats by 2027; while Ghana seeks to deliver 8 million tons of manganese in 2025. Achieving these goals will require substantial investments and AMW 2025 will serve as a launchpad for future projects.

    Addressing Challenges, Highlighting Opportunities

    As the demand for minerals grows, so does the need to integrate technology that enhances efficiency and sustainable mining operations. The AMW 2025 program is designed to tackle the most pressing challenges across the African mining industry, with sessions geared towards creating home-grown solutions to securing capital, technology and expertise. On the financing side, sessions include The Investor Perspective: Financing Africa’s Mineral Industrialization; Mergers, Acquisitions, and Partnerships: Building Resilience in a Consolidating Industry; Innovative Investment Strategies for Nigeria’s Infrastructure Development; and more. Industry spotlight sessions on The Cobalt Opportunity; Botswana’s Diamond Legacy; Ghana’s Gold Renaissance; South African PGMs and more will explore industry-specific opportunities, while a series of technical workshops and a technology forum will outline emerging technologies across the industry. Tech-driven sessions include Autonomous Mining: How Robotics and AI are Revolutionizing Resource Extraction; Youth-Driven Innovations in Mining Technology; From Ideas to Impact; and more.

    Strategic Engagement Opportunities

    Engagement is a feature of the AMW 2025 program, with networking sessions offering attendees the chance to connect with stakeholders and forge collaborative partnerships. The program is tailored to facilitate collaboration, with roundtables focused on bringing global and African partners together. Notable sessions include US-Africa Collaboration on Critical Mineral Infrastructure; China-Africa Corporation on Critical Minerals; European Partnerships in African Mining; Strengthening Middle East and Africa Partnerships, and more. The conference will also host a Women in Leadership Forum, aimed at breaking down barriers for women in the industry by fostering greater collaboration, and a Junior Miners Forum, aimed at showcasing opportunities for youth in the industry. Through networking and matchmaking forums, cocktails and luncheons, business-matching and meetings, AMW 2025 will usher in a new era of collaborative mining development in Africa.

    Navigating Critical Minerals Gaps

    Co-located alongside African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies – hosted on September 29 to October 3, AMW 2025 is uniquely positioned to explore Africa’s emerging role as the center of the global energy transition. Serving as core components in the development of energy transition-related technologies, the demand for critical minerals is growing rapidly. Between 2022 and 2050, the demand for nickel will double, cobalt will triple while lithium demand will rise tenfold. Home to 30% of the world’s critical minerals, Africa is well-positioned to drive this transition. By navigating supply gaps within the critical minerals industry, AMW 2025 will connect international partners to African mines.

    African Mining Week serves as a premier platform for exploring the full spectrum of mining opportunities across Africa. The event is held alongside the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies 2025 conference from October 1-3 in Cape Town. Sponsors, exhibitors and delegates can learn more by contacting sales@energycapitalpower.com.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • India witnessing transformational decade under PM Modi: Union Minister Jitendra Singh

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    In an exclusive interview with Doordarshan News, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted the sweeping governance reforms and inclusive development initiatives undertaken during the past 11 years of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. He described the period as a “transformational decade” that has democratized aspirations and expanded opportunities across regions and sectors.

    Democratisation of Civil Services and Aspirations

    Singh emphasized that the Civil Services, once dominated by select states like Bihar and Tamil Nadu, now see top performers from previously underrepresented regions such as Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, and Haryana. Citing examples like Parsanjit Kour from Poonch (AIR 11, 2022) and Anmol Sher Singh Bedi from Punjab (AIR 2, 2016), he hailed this shift as proof of the system’s increasing objectivity and accessibility.

    “This is the true essence of democracy—where every mother, regardless of her socio-economic standing, has the confidence to believe her child can reach the top,” he stated.

    Start-Up India Reframed Employment Thinking

    Singh noted that PM Modi’s 2016 call for “Start-Up India, Stand-Up India” revolutionized the employment landscape. “People realized that jobs don’t just mean Sarkari Naukri—they mean innovation, entrepreneurship, and startups,” he said. He pointed to the biotechnology sector’s exponential growth from just 50 startups in 2014 to over 10,075 in 2024, with a valuation leap from $10 billion to $170 billion.

    Integration of Northeast and J&K

    Lauding the integration of the Northeast and Jammu & Kashmir into India’s mainstream development, the Minister said regions long isolated now enjoy railway connectivity and are participating in sectors like aviation and hospitality. He recalled the emotional story of young women from Manipur working in airlines—tragically lost in an Ahmedabad air crash—as symbolic of the transformation these regions have undergone.

    India’s Ascent in Space and Biotech

    Singh reaffirmed India’s rising stature in space and science. He announced that Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla will serve as the mission pilot on the Axiom-4 mission, conducting biotech experiments using indigenous kits. He added that India is on track to establish its own space station—‘Bharat Antariksh Station’—by 2035.

    Revolution in Governance and Service Delivery

    Highlighting key governance reforms, Singh said India’s grievance redressal system – Centralized Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System (CPGRAMS) – has evolved into a global model, handling over 26 lakh grievances in 2024 with a 96% disposal rate—compared to just 2 lakh in 2014.

    He also praised the Digital Life Certificate (DLC) system for pensioners, powered by facial recognition technology, which spares elderly citizens from bank visits. Additionally, reforms now allow women officers to nominate parents or children as pension beneficiaries, reflecting a more compassionate system.

    Zero-Corruption Record and Cultural Shift

    Singh stated that “not a single charge of corruption” has surfaced against any member of the Union Council of Ministers over the past 11 years, contrasting it with previous regimes plagued by scams. He said this clean governance, combined with 100% saturation of schemes like PM Awas Yojana—even in non-traditional voter areas—signals a shift away from vote-bank politics.

    J&K Stability and Future Prospects

    Addressing the situation in Jammu & Kashmir, the Minister said normalcy has returned, with tourism booming. “Visit Pahalgam today—you’ll find it crowded despite recent incidents,” he said, adding that youth in the region are determined to be part of India’s development journey. He also called the recent discovery of lithium reserves in J&K a potential economic game-changer.

    Towards Viksit Bharat 2047

    Concluding his remarks, Singh underscored the role of citizens in shaping the nation’s future. “The real driving force behind Viksit Bharat 2047 will be the people of India—their support, aspirations, and participation will define the next 25 years of our journey,” he said.

  • India witnessing transformational decade under PM Modi: Union Minister Jitendra Singh

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    In an exclusive interview with Doordarshan News, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted the sweeping governance reforms and inclusive development initiatives undertaken during the past 11 years of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. He described the period as a “transformational decade” that has democratized aspirations and expanded opportunities across regions and sectors.

    Democratisation of Civil Services and Aspirations

    Singh emphasized that the Civil Services, once dominated by select states like Bihar and Tamil Nadu, now see top performers from previously underrepresented regions such as Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, and Haryana. Citing examples like Parsanjit Kour from Poonch (AIR 11, 2022) and Anmol Sher Singh Bedi from Punjab (AIR 2, 2016), he hailed this shift as proof of the system’s increasing objectivity and accessibility.

    “This is the true essence of democracy—where every mother, regardless of her socio-economic standing, has the confidence to believe her child can reach the top,” he stated.

    Start-Up India Reframed Employment Thinking

    Singh noted that PM Modi’s 2016 call for “Start-Up India, Stand-Up India” revolutionized the employment landscape. “People realized that jobs don’t just mean Sarkari Naukri—they mean innovation, entrepreneurship, and startups,” he said. He pointed to the biotechnology sector’s exponential growth from just 50 startups in 2014 to over 10,075 in 2024, with a valuation leap from $10 billion to $170 billion.

    Integration of Northeast and J&K

    Lauding the integration of the Northeast and Jammu & Kashmir into India’s mainstream development, the Minister said regions long isolated now enjoy railway connectivity and are participating in sectors like aviation and hospitality. He recalled the emotional story of young women from Manipur working in airlines—tragically lost in an Ahmedabad air crash—as symbolic of the transformation these regions have undergone.

    India’s Ascent in Space and Biotech

    Singh reaffirmed India’s rising stature in space and science. He announced that Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla will serve as the mission pilot on the Axiom-4 mission, conducting biotech experiments using indigenous kits. He added that India is on track to establish its own space station—‘Bharat Antariksh Station’—by 2035.

    Revolution in Governance and Service Delivery

    Highlighting key governance reforms, Singh said India’s grievance redressal system – Centralized Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System (CPGRAMS) – has evolved into a global model, handling over 26 lakh grievances in 2024 with a 96% disposal rate—compared to just 2 lakh in 2014.

    He also praised the Digital Life Certificate (DLC) system for pensioners, powered by facial recognition technology, which spares elderly citizens from bank visits. Additionally, reforms now allow women officers to nominate parents or children as pension beneficiaries, reflecting a more compassionate system.

    Zero-Corruption Record and Cultural Shift

    Singh stated that “not a single charge of corruption” has surfaced against any member of the Union Council of Ministers over the past 11 years, contrasting it with previous regimes plagued by scams. He said this clean governance, combined with 100% saturation of schemes like PM Awas Yojana—even in non-traditional voter areas—signals a shift away from vote-bank politics.

    J&K Stability and Future Prospects

    Addressing the situation in Jammu & Kashmir, the Minister said normalcy has returned, with tourism booming. “Visit Pahalgam today—you’ll find it crowded despite recent incidents,” he said, adding that youth in the region are determined to be part of India’s development journey. He also called the recent discovery of lithium reserves in J&K a potential economic game-changer.

    Towards Viksit Bharat 2047

    Concluding his remarks, Singh underscored the role of citizens in shaping the nation’s future. “The real driving force behind Viksit Bharat 2047 will be the people of India—their support, aspirations, and participation will define the next 25 years of our journey,” he said.

  • MIL-OSI: LightSolver Selected as 2025 Technology Pioneer by the World Economic Forum

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TEL AVIV, Israel , June 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — LightSolver, inventors of a new laser-based HPC computing paradigm, today announced that it has been named a 2025 Technology Pioneer by the World Economic Forum (WEF). With this recognition, LightSolver joins an elite group of startups that are addressing some of the world’s most pressing challenges via breakthrough technologies.

    Now in its 25th year, the WEF Technology Pioneers program honors 100 early-stage technology companies that exemplify the entrepreneurial spirit and transformative potential needed to shape a more equitable, sustainable future.

    LightSolver is reimagining high-performance computing (HPC) with its all-optical Laser Processing Unit™ (LPU) by leveraging laser interactions to compute large and complex problems at the speed of light. This novel computing technology enables faster, more scalable solutions for problems that require massive number crunching, such as combinatorial optimization, computer-aided engineering (CAE) simulations, and other complex scientific computations.

    As a member of the 2025 Technology Pioneers cohort, LightSolver will join the World Economic Forum’s Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution, a premier global network advancing the application of human-centered and society-serving technologies. The program offers a unique platform for members to scale their innovations and amplify their impact. Through this opportunity, LightSolver will engage directly with leaders across the public and private sectors, contribute ideas, share insights, and help shape the global agenda on emerging technologies.

    “We look forward to joining this inspiring global community of innovators,” said Ruti Ben-Shlomi, CEO and co-founder of LightSolver. “At LightSolver, we believe the future of computing demands new paradigms that are not only faster and more efficient but also scalable and sustainable. This recognition reinforces our mission and motivates us to continue advancing optical computing to solve complex global challenges.”

    Learn more about the 2025 Technology Pioneers here.

    About The World Economic Forum
    The World Economic Forum, committed to improving the state of the world, is the International Organization for Public-Private Cooperation. The Forum engages the foremost political, business and other leaders of society to shape global, regional and industry agendas. (www.weforum.org).

    About the Technology Pioneers Community
    Launched in 2000, the Technology Pioneers community marks its 25th anniversary in 2025 as a leading platform for early-stage companies from around the world that are shaping the future through breakthrough technologies and innovations. These companies are selected for their potential to have a significant impact on business and society and are invited to engage with public and private sector leaders through the World Economic Forum’s global platform. The Technology Pioneers community is part of the Innovator Communities within the Forum’s Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution. The Innovator Communities convene the world’s leading global start-ups across different growth stages from early-stage Technology Pioneers to growth-stage Global Innovators and unicorn companies valued at more than $1 billion.

    About LightSolver
    LightSolver is a photonics computing company that is developing an all-optical supercomputer capable of solving complex and large computational problems at the speed of light. Utilizing the interference patterns of lasers, the Laser Processing Unit™ (LPU) can tackle challenges that were previously constrained by the limits of electronics, while fitting into a rack unit and operating at room temperature. Dr. Ruti Ben-Shlomi and Dr. Chene Tradonsky, physicists from the world-renowned Weizmann Institute, founded the company in 2020. More than 2/3 of the team are physics, math and computer science PhDs. LightSolver has secured investment from TAL Ventures, Entree Capital, IBI Tech Fund, Angular Ventures, Maverick, and Artofin. The company has also received a €12.5M grant from the European Innovation Council (EIC) to advance its all-optical supercomputer. Connect with LightSolver @LightSolverCo on X and on LinkedIn. For more information, visit lightsolver.com or email info@lightsolver.com.

    Media Contact:
    Seth Menacker
    Fusion PR
    lightsolver@fusionpr.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Constitutional Court a beacon of democracy

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    President Cyril Ramaphosa has used his weekly newsletter to call on all South Africans to “honour the proud history” of the Constitutional Court.

    “This year marks 30 years since the court convened for the first time, marking a new, bold chapter of our democratic journey. 

    “The imperative for the establishment of a specialised constitutional court was a key facet of the multiparty negotiations that preceded the democratic transition,” the President said.

    The court was established during a precarious time in South Africa where the country was in transition from apartheid towards a democratic order.

    “Whilst some believed that existing structures such as the Supreme Court could perform this task, the African National Congress advocated for a new court that was untainted by the past. 

    “Just as drafters of the constitution itself drew heavily on the experiences of other countries – when considering the model of the court we looked to other jurisdictions for inspiration.  One of these was Germany’s Federal Constitutional Court that was established in 1951.

    “In this respect, this proud institution of our democracy is the product of constitutional solidarity. It draws on the wisdom and support of international partners, yet remains uniquely South African in its outlook, its orientation and values,” the President said.

    Over the past 30 years, the court has made some far-reaching and landmark judgments including those related to prisoner voting rights and HIV/AIDS treatment.

    “Yet its less well-known judgments that have had equally dramatic impact on matters such as upholding the rights of pensioners to not having their old age grants disrupted, the rights of smallholder farmers to not have their livestock impounded under colonial-era ordinances, the rights of women in customary marriages, and upholding the rights of rail commuters to safety,” he highlighted.

    United in diversity

    President Ramaphosa noted that the diverse composition of the bench of judges has “played an important role in shaping the court’s jurisprudence”.

    “In 2007 former Chief Justice Pius Langa highlighted the centrality of judicial diversity, saying this was not confined solely to an appropriate racial or gender mix, but that a wide range of views and life experiences are represented.

    “Judicial diversity, Justice Langa said, is likely to increase judicial dissent, and hence improve the quality of decisions,” he said.

    The President highlighted that throughout its life, the court has delivered on its work “without fear or favour, not hesitating to hold even the most powerful in society to account” – ensuring public trust in the institution.

    “An Ipsos poll released earlier this year found that most South Africans view democracy, human rights and the rule of law as universal values that all nations deserve and must aspire towards. 

    “The majority of respondents also believed that South Africa is a good example of a democracy, and has a responsibility to be a moral leader in the world. This confidence is a result of the abiding trust the public has in our Constitutional Court.

    “As we celebrate this milestone, we should honour the proud history of the court by continuing to work together as all of society to realise the full promise of our Constitution,” President Ramaphosa concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI: Bitget Onboards on India’s I4C’s Sahyog Portal to Support Local Law Enforcement

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW DELHI, June 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget, the leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company, has officially onboarded onto India’s Sahyog portal, a key interface under the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) framework. The portal facilitates direct and structured communication between law enforcement agencies and digital service providers. This development marks an important step in enhancing cooperation between virtual asset platforms and Indian authorities engaged in cybercrime investigations.

    The Sahyog portal serves as a centralized system that allows law enforcement to submit legal requests for data disclosure in accordance with Section 94 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) and Section 79(3)(b) of the Information Technology Act. These provisions enable Indian authorities to seek access to digital evidence, user data, and transaction records from service providers in connection with active investigations. Bitget’s integration ensures that future requests can be managed through an established, secure, and legally compliant channel.

    Global exchanges are being actively onboarded onto the Sahyog system to improve investigative capabilities and reduce procedural delays. Alongside Bitget, other major global platforms have also been onboarded onto the Sahyog system in furtherance of the system’s robustness. The main aim is to provide investigators with aggregated access to essential data that supports timely enforcement actions in cases involving virtual assets.

    Bitget has taken multiple steps in recent months  to align with regional compliance frameworks across key jurisdictions, with India representing a particularly strategic market. Participation in official law enforcement portals is a good example of Bitget’s  proactive stance in aligning operations with local regulatory expectations. It aligns with the exchange’s broader aim to assist in creating a transparent and accountable environment for digital asset trading, particularly as authorities globally increase scrutiny of crypto transactions.

    “Operating responsibly in all jurisdictions remains a priority for Bitget. India’s regulatory and enforcement landscape around digital assets is evolving quickly, and aligning with initiatives like Sahyog highlights a practical step forward. Bitget will continue to engage constructively with local regulators to ensure that our systems deliver the legal and technical requirements to support such agencies,” said Hon NG, Chief Legal Officer at Bitget.

    As the global digital asset sector expands, increased engagement between crypto service providers and governments has become important to operate sustainably. Integration into frameworks such as Sahyog allows exchanges like Bitget to deliver timely and structured responses to legal requests, reducing friction in cross-border cooperation and ensuring that law enforcement agencies have access to the tools necessary for digital evidence collection.

    India’s growing emphasis on formalizing its approach to virtual assets has brought renewed focus on the role of foreign exchanges operating within its borders. Compliance with data disclosure provisions and participation in platforms like Sahyog are expected to play an important role in defining the future relationship between crypto firms and national authorities. Bitget’s onboarding adds to the growing list of global entities now accessible via Sahyog, signaling the broader direction of increased regulatory coordination across the industry.

    About Bitget

    Established in 2018, Bitget is the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company. Serving over 120 million users in 150+ countries and regions, the Bitget exchange is committed to helping users trade smarter with its pioneering copy trading feature and other trading solutions, while offering real-time access to Bitcoin price, Ethereum price, and other cryptocurrency prices. Formerly known as BitKeep, Bitget Wallet is a leading non-custodial crypto wallet supporting 130+ blockchains and millions of tokens. It offers multi-chain trading, staking, payments, and direct access to 20,000+ DApps, with advanced swaps and market insights built into a single platform. Bitget is at the forefront of driving crypto adoption through strategic partnerships, such as its role as the Official Crypto Partner of the World’s Top Football League, LALIGA, in EASTERN, SEA and LATAM markets, as well as a global partner of Turkish National athletes Buse Tosun Çavuşoğlu (Wrestling world champion), Samet Gümüş (Boxing gold medalist) and İlkin Aydın (Volleyball national team), to inspire the global community to embrace the future of cryptocurrency.

    For more information, visit: Website | Twitter | Telegram | LinkedIn | Discord | Bitget Wallet

    For media inquiries, please contact: media@bitget.com

    Risk Warning: Digital asset prices are subject to fluctuation and may experience significant volatility. Investors are advised to only allocate funds they can afford to lose. The value of any investment may be impacted, and there is a possibility that financial objectives may not be met, nor the principal investment recovered. Independent financial advice should always be sought, and personal financial experience and standing carefully considered. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. Bitget accepts no liability for any potential losses incurred. Nothing contained herein should be construed as financial advice. For further information, please refer to our Terms of Use.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/0956e457-f148-4c31-b579-b6261058c890

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese AAA role-playing game eyes global release amid industry growth

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

    Riding the wave of global interest ignited by “Black Myth: Wukong,” another Chinese-developed AAA role-playing game, “WUCHANG: Fallen Feathers,” is now set to step onto the international stage.

    Developed by Chengdu Lingze Technology Co., Ltd. based in Chengdu, capital of southwest China’s Sichuan Province, “WUCHANG: Fallen Feathers” is set for global release on July 24. The game soared to the top of Steam’s China bestseller chart on its pre-order debut this April and ranked eighth worldwide, drawing significant attention from players around the globe.

    Set in a mythic world inspired by ancient Chinese legends, “WUCHANG: Fallen Feathers” invites players to step into the shoes of a lone female warrior, embarking on a journey through towering mountains, ancient temples and forgotten ruins, in a quest to uncover lost memories and hidden truths.

    The game draws heavily from the ancient Shu civilization, a prominent culture in southwest China known for its distinctive bronze masks and archaeological sites such as Sanxingdui, according to Guo Xinyi, CFO of Lingze Technology.

    To authentically bring this world to life, the development team at Lingze Technology conducted six years of extensive field research, including 3D scanning at dozens of cultural and historical sites — like the Anyue Stone Carvings and Taoping Village in the Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture. The result is a vivid recreation of these ancient landmarks within the game.

    Drawing inspiration from classical texts such as “The Classic of Mountains and Seas,” the developers also integrated regional myths and local legends to craft a unique and immersive cultural atmosphere.

    The developers view the project as a fusion of gameplay and cultural narrative, ensuring it is both captivating and firmly grounded in Chinese tradition.

    “We wanted to make a game that is, above all, fun to play,” said Xia Siyuan, CTO and game producer at Lingze Technology. “We believe that only when players truly enjoy the game will they be motivated to explore the cultural stories behind it.”

    “The ancient Shu civilization was a natural foundation for us to build this world upon,” Xia added. “We want the world to see that Chinese culture is full of creative potential.”

    “WUCHANG: Fallen Feathers” is set to launch on major global platforms, including Steam, Epic Games Store, PlayStation 5 and Xbox, the studio said. Industry insiders see the game as a potential milestone in China’s push to expand its footprint in the global AAA gaming market.

    AAA games, typically defined as requiring a lot of money, a lot of time and a lot of resources, are high-cost, high-quality, large-scale single-player titles. The market has long been dominated by developers from countries such as Japan, the United States and France.

    The upcoming release of “WUCHANG: Fallen Feathers” is part of a broader trend toward diversification and rising quality in China’s gaming industry. Other highly anticipated Chinese titles include “Showa American Story,” “Lost Soul Aside” and upcoming downloadable content for “Black Myth: Wukong.”

    China is the world’s largest gaming market, with domestic sales revenue surpassing 325 billion yuan (about 45.3 billion U.S. dollars) in 2024. Also, the 2024 China gaming industry report showed that China had 674 million gamers, while domestically developed games achieved overseas sales of 18.56 billion dollars last year, indicating the increasing international influence of Chinese games. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: SPbPU is among the leaders in graduate employment

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University has confirmed the high level of training of specialists: according to the results of the national ranking of graduate employment, published by the Federal Service for Labor and Employment (Rostrud), the university was among the best universities in the country and demonstrated one of the highest results among universities in St. Petersburg.

    The ranking includes more than 150 universities from all regions of Russia. SPbPU is represented in the following areas of education: “Humanities”, “Engineering, Technology and Technical Sciences”, “Arts and Culture”, “Mathematical and Natural Sciences”, “Sciences about Society”.

    In each category, Polytechnic University is among the top 8 universities in St. Petersburg: its success is especially noticeable in mathematical and natural sciences, where SPbPU ranks fourth in undergraduate programs and third in graduate programs, which underlines the university’s high scientific and educational reputation.

    Polytechnic University also has a good position in the field of social sciences: graduates of the Master’s program occupy third place in the city in terms of employment and salaries, ahead of many specialized universities. Graduates of the Design program have become the most sought-after – SPbPU ranks first among St. Petersburg universities in the field of Art and Culture and second in Russia.

    This leading position testifies to the comprehensive development of the Polytechnic University and its significant contribution to the training of sought-after and competitive specialists in accordance with the trending requirements of industrial customers.

    At Polytechnic University, we do not just teach students, but actively promote their career growth and successful integration into the country’s economy in their chosen field. Already during their studies, Polytechnic students have the opportunity to solve real problems at partner enterprises. This allows us to prepare sought-after specialists who can make a significant contribution to Russia’s technological leadership. As a result, most graduates are employed or receive attractive offers from employers even before defending their diploma. The geography of their work covers both Russia and other countries, – commented SPbPU Rector Andrey Rudskoy.

    SPbPU demonstrates stable positions in the rankings thanks to a systematic approach: we develop connections with employers, implement practice-oriented modules and prepare graduates for real work. This is confirmed by statistical data and independent analytical assessments, – noted Vice-Rector for Educational Activities of SPbPU Lyudmila Pankova.

    The rating is based on data on employment and salary levels of 2022 graduates, obtained from the Federal Service for Labor and Employment. The rating is calculated based on data on employment and salary levels two years after graduation.

    The full rating is published onwebsite Federal Service for Labor and Employment 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.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Kyrgyzstan’s Black, Red, Yellow Wins Best Film at 2025 Shanghai Film Festival

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    SHANGHAI, June 23 (Xinhua) — The full-length film “Kara Kyzyl Sary” (Black, Red, Yellow), directed by Kyrgyz filmmaker Aktan Arym Kubat, won the top prize of the 27th Shanghai International Film Festival, the Golden Cup.

    The closing ceremony of the festival took place on Saturday. The award in the nomination “Best Film” was presented to the Kyrgyz director by the chairman of the jury, the famous film director Giuseppe Tornatore. The performers of the leading roles Nargiza Mamatkulova and Aigul Busurmankulova also appeared on stage.

    According to Kyrgyz media, the film’s plot centers on the life of a weaver whose carpets become a reflection of the fates of the people for whom they are created. In her hands, these products turn into mirrors showing the fates of their owners. The director noted that the main character’s love story unfolds against the backdrop of the collapse of the USSR, when significant changes were taking place in both the political and spiritual spheres, which exacerbated human feelings.

    The project “Kara Kyzyl Sary” was created with the support of the National Film Studio “Kyrgyzfilm” and is based on the works of the writer Topchugul Shaidullaeva. Filming took place in the Batken region of Kyrgyzstan.

    In addition, in the competition category “Animation”, the joint project of Russia and Kazakhstan “Son” was recognized as the best animated short film.

    The main competition program of the Shanghai International Film Festival included 12 full-length films, with veteran Chinese filmmaker Cao Baoping winning the Best Director award for his action-comedy “One Wacky Summer,” the Best Actress award went to Chinese actress Wan Qian for her role in “Wild Nights, Tamed Beasts,” and the Best Actor award went to José Martins for his work in the Portuguese-Brazilian co-production “The Scent of Things Remembered.”

    The 27th Shanghai International Film Festival was held in China from June 13 to 22. During this time, more than 400 films from about 70 countries were shown in dozens of Shanghai cinemas. The festival film program consisted of five sections: main competition, new Asian talents, animation, documentary films, and short films.

    Let us recall that the Shanghai International Film Festival is the only international category “A” film festival held in China. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Over 700 job vacancies to be offered at Talent-Wise Inclusive Job Fair

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Over 700 job vacancies to be offered at Talent-Wise Inclusive Job Fair    
    More than 40 organisations ranging from small and medium-sized enterprises to large-scale corporations will participate in the two-day job fair, offering over 700 job vacancies from various industries, including those of information technology, finance, transport, catering, hotel, property management and social services, providing employment opportunities to various types of persons with disabilities.
     
    Over 20 organisations will set up booths and conduct recruitment each day. A wide variety of positions will be offered, including systems analyst, accounting assistant, clerk, technician, marketing assistant, customer service officer, room attendant, warehouse worker, railway technical trainee, automotive mechanic apprentice, graphic designer, library material maintenance assistant, cook, waiter, multi-skilled cleaner, property service assistant, laundry steam presser, hair therapist, beauty salon assistant and receptionist, etc. Job seekers can visit the LD’s Interactive Selective Placement Service Website (www.jobs.gov.hk/isps    
    Job seekers can submit applications during the event and may be able to attend on-the-spot interviews. They can also make enquiries on and register for the employment services provided for persons with disabilities by the LD’s Selective Placement Division at its counter inside the venue.
        
    The job fair will be held from 10.30am to 5pm at G/F, TungPo of TWGHs in San Po Kong, Kowloon (accessible via Kai Tak Station or Diamond Hill Station of MTR). Admission is free, with final admission time at 4.30pm each day.
    Issued at HKT 15:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: EveLab Insight Debuts Dynamic Wrinkle Detection Technology at VivaTech 2025, Shaping the Future of AI-Powered Skin Wellness

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, June 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — EveLab Insight, a global leader in AI skin analysis technology, successfully concluded its debut at VivaTech 2025, Europe’s premier innovation and technology event. From June 11-14, the company showcased a major advancement in visual AI: real-time dynamic wrinkle analysis, which brings a new dimension to personalized early-ageing awareness and skincare strategies.

    From Static Images to Smart, Dynamic Skin Analysis

    Traditional skin assessments rely on static imaging, capturing only a momentary view of the skin’s surface. EveLab Insight’s latest innovation applies dynamic video-based analysis to observe how the skin responds to facial expressions and micro-movements. By tracking the appearance and fading of expression-related lines in real time, the technology enables a more thorough understanding of visible skin behavior over time.

    “Our solution doesn’t just analyze the skin—it reads how it moves and adapts,” said Yolanda Ching, Head of Global Sales & Marketing at EveLab Insight. “This brings new value to brands and professionals seeking more personalized, data-driven approaches to skin care.”

    Expression lines—such as crow’s feet or forehead creases—often appear prior to long-term texture changes, and may reflect early signs of reduced skin elasticity. By identifying these patterns, brands and consultants can offer more timely, tailored skincare solutions aligned with individual skin behavior.

    Introducing AI Skin Aging Trajectories

    This breakthrough forms part of EveLab Insight’s strategy to build an AI foundation model for skin analysis. By combining static images with dynamic behavioral data, the company is developing a solution to help users and beauty professionals track and assess evolving skin patterns over time—what EveLab calls the “skin aging timeline.”

    These insights enables more informed product recommendations and personalized skincare journeys—whether focused on hydration, firmness, or smoothing—based on how each individual’s skin responds to movement and environment.

    A Global Partner in AI Skin-Tech

    To date, EveLab Insight’s solutions have been adopted in over 4,500 physical retail locations worldwide, and the company has formed strategic partnerships with more than 200 clients, including Shiseido, Dr. Barbara Sturm, and Sulwhasoo. Its AI-powered solutions are integrated across flagship stores, spas, and experiential events—enhancing customer engagement and delivering consistent, tech-enabled skin health consultations.

    At VivaTech 2025, EveLab Insight’s live demonstrations attracted strong attention from top global brand’s executives, investors, and media. Attendees praised the platform’s accuracy, clarity, and real-time interaction, as well as its ability to support customized customer experiences across markets.

    About EveLab Insight
    EveLab Insight is uncovering the ground truth of skin through science and AI. By working with leading global skincare brands, spas, and aesthetic clinics, we transform our customers’ R&D process more data-driven and rigorous, delivering smarter and more personalized skin health and beauty solutions.

    EveLab Insight is more a technology company. We are transforming the skincare industry and empowers its participants by seamlessly blending science, beauty, health and innovative consumer experiences.

    For media inquiries or partnership opportunities, visit www.evelabinsight.com or contact alison@evelabinsight.com

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/62a3e03c-c2e6-4474-8021-cb1d8bafb465

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/56abd099-5f4a-40b0-bcb1-87acf7fed435

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: EveLab Insight Debuts Dynamic Wrinkle Detection Technology at VivaTech 2025, Shaping the Future of AI-Powered Skin Wellness

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, June 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — EveLab Insight, a global leader in AI skin analysis technology, successfully concluded its debut at VivaTech 2025, Europe’s premier innovation and technology event. From June 11-14, the company showcased a major advancement in visual AI: real-time dynamic wrinkle analysis, which brings a new dimension to personalized early-ageing awareness and skincare strategies.

    From Static Images to Smart, Dynamic Skin Analysis

    Traditional skin assessments rely on static imaging, capturing only a momentary view of the skin’s surface. EveLab Insight’s latest innovation applies dynamic video-based analysis to observe how the skin responds to facial expressions and micro-movements. By tracking the appearance and fading of expression-related lines in real time, the technology enables a more thorough understanding of visible skin behavior over time.

    “Our solution doesn’t just analyze the skin—it reads how it moves and adapts,” said Yolanda Ching, Head of Global Sales & Marketing at EveLab Insight. “This brings new value to brands and professionals seeking more personalized, data-driven approaches to skin care.”

    Expression lines—such as crow’s feet or forehead creases—often appear prior to long-term texture changes, and may reflect early signs of reduced skin elasticity. By identifying these patterns, brands and consultants can offer more timely, tailored skincare solutions aligned with individual skin behavior.

    Introducing AI Skin Aging Trajectories

    This breakthrough forms part of EveLab Insight’s strategy to build an AI foundation model for skin analysis. By combining static images with dynamic behavioral data, the company is developing a solution to help users and beauty professionals track and assess evolving skin patterns over time—what EveLab calls the “skin aging timeline.”

    These insights enables more informed product recommendations and personalized skincare journeys—whether focused on hydration, firmness, or smoothing—based on how each individual’s skin responds to movement and environment.

    A Global Partner in AI Skin-Tech

    To date, EveLab Insight’s solutions have been adopted in over 4,500 physical retail locations worldwide, and the company has formed strategic partnerships with more than 200 clients, including Shiseido, Dr. Barbara Sturm, and Sulwhasoo. Its AI-powered solutions are integrated across flagship stores, spas, and experiential events—enhancing customer engagement and delivering consistent, tech-enabled skin health consultations.

    At VivaTech 2025, EveLab Insight’s live demonstrations attracted strong attention from top global brand’s executives, investors, and media. Attendees praised the platform’s accuracy, clarity, and real-time interaction, as well as its ability to support customized customer experiences across markets.

    About EveLab Insight
    EveLab Insight is uncovering the ground truth of skin through science and AI. By working with leading global skincare brands, spas, and aesthetic clinics, we transform our customers’ R&D process more data-driven and rigorous, delivering smarter and more personalized skin health and beauty solutions.

    EveLab Insight is more a technology company. We are transforming the skincare industry and empowers its participants by seamlessly blending science, beauty, health and innovative consumer experiences.

    For media inquiries or partnership opportunities, visit www.evelabinsight.com or contact alison@evelabinsight.com

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/62a3e03c-c2e6-4474-8021-cb1d8bafb465

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/56abd099-5f4a-40b0-bcb1-87acf7fed435

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Polytechnic University scientists receive grant from the Ministry of Education and Science

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    Polytechnic University received a grant from the Ministry of Education and Science for the development of scientific and technological infrastructure and technologies in the field of nuclear medicine, nanomedicine and hadron therapy, including the development of high-tech and radiopharmaceutical drugs.

    The Polytechnic University has won the competitive selection for the provision of grants in the form of subsidies from the federal budget for the implementation of individual activities of the Federal Scientific and Technical Program for the Development of Synchrotron and Neutron Research and Research Infrastructure for the Period up to 2030 and Beyond. The grant is aimed at developing scientific and technological infrastructure and technologies in the field of nuclear medicine, nanomedicine and hadron therapy, including the development of high-tech and radiopharmaceutical drugs (RPhLD).

    A group of scientists from SPbPU, headed by the director of the Institute of Biomedical Systems and Biotechnology Andrey Vasin, together with the scientific team of the Department of Molecular and Radiation Biophysics of the National Research Center “Kurchatov Institute” – PNPI, presented a research program for the competition dedicated to the development of new technologies for the encapsulation and delivery of radionuclides for the diagnosis and therapy of malignant neoplasms.

    Currently, in Russia there are practically no original modern technological developments in the field of encapsulation of various radionuclides of therapeutic action, which can be further used to create new RFLPs to combat socially significant diseases, primarily malignant neoplasms. We plan to develop methods for obtaining hybrid nanocarriers for radionuclides and methods for encapsulating radioactive isotopes of radium-224 and iodine-125 in them by the end of 2025. And in the next two years, preclinical studies of the safety of the RFLPs being developed will be conducted and the effectiveness of their use for the treatment of malignant neoplasms in vivo will be studied, – noted Andrey Vasin.

    There are also plans to implement an additional professional development program, “Modern methods of delivering radionuclides for the diagnosis and treatment of malignant neoplasms,” which will allow training personnel for the industry.

    We are grateful to the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation for supporting our project, which has quite a serious groundwork and an excellent team of researchers, including many young scientists. The funds received will also be used to modernize the equipment needed to conduct research in the field of developing RFLP drugs. Preventive maintenance of individual systems of the isochronous cyclotron MGC-20, which is used to produce radioactive isotopes to obtain RFLP, is planned. The plans include equipping areas for quality control of “cold” hybrid nanocarriers and isotopes based on the scientific divisions of the Institute of Biomedical Systems and Biotechnology, – commented the curator of the project, Vice-Rector for Research at SPbPU Yuri Fomin.

    The project is being implemented jointly with the scientific team of the Department of Molecular and Radiation Biophysics of the National Research Center “Kurchatov Institute” – PNPI, which has a research infrastructure for the development and conduct of preclinical studies of radiopharmaceutical drugs. The project will be implemented during 2025-2027, the total funding will be 231 million rubles, including 21 million rubles of the organization’s own funds.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Projects jointly funded by Guangdong-Hong Kong and Shenzhen-Hong Kong under Mainland-Hong Kong Technology Cooperation Funding Scheme open for application

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Projects jointly funded by Guangdong-Hong Kong and Shenzhen-Hong Kong under Mainland-Hong Kong Technology Cooperation Funding Scheme open for application 
         All applications must fit the specific themes/topics, and be submitted simultaneously by the Hong Kong and Mainland applicant organisations to the ITC and relevant Mainland authorities respectively.
     
         To facilitate participating institutes and companies in submitting funding applications, the Mainland-Hong Kong Joint Funding Scheme and the Guangdong-Hong Kong Technology Cooperation Funding Scheme have been merged as the MHKTCFS to support and encourage collaboration among universities, research institutes and technology enterprises in Hong Kong and Mainland China. There are three categories of projects under the MHKTCFS:
    Application details for projects jointly funded by the Mainland and Hong Kong will be announced in due course.
     
         Further information on the MHKTCFS is available on the ITF website (www.itf.gov.hk/en/funding-programmes/supporting-research/mhktcfs/index.htmlIssued at HKT 14:30

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Strait of Hormuz: closing vital oil and gas route would disrupt global supplies. How will Australia be affected?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Sanjoy Paul, Associate Professor in Operations and Supply Chain Management, UTS Business School, University of Technology Sydney

    Below the Sky/Shutterstock

    The Iranian parliament has approved the closure of key shipping route the Strait of Hormuz, in a move that could further escalate the Israel/Iran war.

    The strait lies between Iran and its Gulf Arab neighbours and is used to transport about 20 million barrels per day of oil – the equivalent of 20% of global daily oil consumption.

    Since 2020, this critical route has been used to transport an average of 14.8 million barrels a day of crude oil and natural gas liquids, 5.5 million barrels a day of petroleum products and 10.8 billion cubic feet per day of LNG.

    The closure of the strait, which will not take effect until endorsed by Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, will significantly impact global oil and gas supplies and could potentially create energy crises.

    An important route for Asia

    In 2024, 84% of the crude oil and natural gas liquids, and 83% of the LNG passed through this channel were destined for Asian countries including China, India, Japan and South Korea.

    In the first quarter of 2025, China alone imported about 38% of crude oil shipped through the strait.

    It is likely these countries will be directly impacted by a closure.

    What it means for Australia

    Only about 15% of Australia’s crude oil and 5% of petroleum products are imported from Middle Eastern countries including Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

    However, 30% of Australia’s refined oil effectively transits through the Strait of Hormuz. This is because Australia sources refined oil from the Republic of Korea and Singapore that is refined from crude oil from the Middle East.

    If Australia’s key suppliers are affected by the closure, there could be devastating flow-on effects for the country’s oil supply.

    Since the conflict between Iran and Israel started, the oil price has increased by 10%. The closure of the strait could further inflate the oil price globally

    Though Australia does not rely directly on crude oil from the Middle East, its reliance on South Korea and Singapore for refined oil is significant. The increased oil price and its impact on the cost of goods and services could also hurt Australia’s fight to control inflation.

    Past tensions in the strait

    The Strait of Hormuz has never been fully closed. However, it has been disrupted a few times leading to reduced capacity.

    Notable disruptions include attacks on commercial ships including oil tankers during the Iran-Iraq war in the 1980s and the tension in the strait between Iranian and US navies in 2007.

    None of these disruptions led to the closure of the channel so the impact of these disruptions on global oil supply was minimal.

    Bypassing the strait

    Both Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have established oil pipelines that could bypass the Strait of Hormuz if it is closed or compromised.

    Saudi Arabia’s pipeline can carry five million barrels per day and the emirates’ capacity is 1.5 million barrels per day. This is compared to their production capacities of nine and 3.3 million barrels per day respectively.

    This could significantly slow down the transportation of crude oil from both countries.

    Qatar relies on the Strait of Hormuz to transport nearly all of its LNG shipments. Last week Qatar instructed all LNG carriers to hold off transiting through the strait until the day before loading and to remain east of Hormuz. This has kept their carriers outside the impacted regions.

    The limited alternative options and reduced capacities of pipelines could potentially disrupt the global oil and LNG supply.

    Potential strategies

    If the strait is fully closed, the impacts could be severe, especially for Asian countries which rely on energy from the Middle East.

    Many countries, such as China, have oil reserves that can sustain their current oil consumption for about five years. However, many developing countries don’t keep supply inventories.

    In the short term, countries should seek to diversify their sources of oil and gas supply. In the long term, they should create a strategic reserve for it.

    Supply countries should focus on expanding alternative routes such as pipelines connected to alternative ports.

    Most importantly, countries should focus on creating renewable energy sources and speed up their adoption to meet energy needs. In future, renewable energies will be the most viable alternatives to crude oil and LNG amid geopolitical tensions.

    Sanjoy Paul 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. Strait of Hormuz: closing vital oil and gas route would disrupt global supplies. How will Australia be affected? – https://theconversation.com/strait-of-hormuz-closing-vital-oil-and-gas-route-would-disrupt-global-supplies-how-will-australia-be-affected-259535

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: City placements launched to promote Young Women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics

    Source: New South Wales Ministerial News

    The City of Greater Bendigo is pleased to announce a new work placement initiative aimed at encouraging more young women to explore careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).

    Applications are now open for the Young Women in STEM Work Placement Program which is aimed at high school students in Years 9 and 10 across Greater Bendigo. The program will offer week-long placements in selected City units where STEM skills are actively applied such as Bendigo Airport, Bendigo Venues & Events, Engineering and Financial Strategy.

    Applicants will undergo a competitive selection process managed by the respective unit.

    Director Corporate Performance Jess Howard said the City was proud to present the new STEM placement program.

    “This is a fantastic opportunity for 12 young women to gain hands-on experience and valuable insights on what STEM careers look like within local government,” Ms Howard said.

    “Students will be selected through a competitive application process and placed in departments where they will see how STEM skills are used every day.

    “The City is deeply committed to advancing gender equality both in the workplace and across our community. This program reflects our goal to build strong, diverse teams that deliver high-quality services.

    “STEM offers a wide range of exciting and evolving career pathways, and these skills are increasingly valued by employers. I hope this experience inspires students to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and maths. It’s vital that organisations like ours, and local businesses in the region, continue to attract emerging talent and embrace the benefits of a diverse workforce.”

    The following City business units are championing the program and offering placement opportunities that highlight STEM in action:

    • Bendigo Venues & Events: August 25-29, 2025
    • Resource Recovery & Education: August 25-29 or September 1-5, 2025
    • Climate Change & Environment: September 1-5 or September 15-19, 2025
    • Engineering: September 1-5 or November 10-14, 2025
    • Financial Strategy: September 8-12 or October 20-24, 2025
    • Bendigo Airport: October 6-10 or November 10-14, 2025
    • Information Technology: November 10-14, 2025

    Today also marks International Women in Engineering Day, a global celebration of the achievements of women engineers and a call to action for more women to shape the world through engineering. The City proudly acknowledges the contributions of its women engineers: Saran O’Connor-Williams (Infrastructure Engineer), Larnie Ham (Graduate Design Engineer), and Kylie Douglas (Senior Landfill Engineer).

    “Their work demonstrates the innovation and impact of women in engineering and highlights the exciting range of career opportunities available in STEM,” Ms Howard said.

    The City presents around 60 work placements a year for high school and university students, of which 12 will be linked to the Young Women in STEM Work Placement Program. The other City placements are open to everyone who meets the criteria.

    MIL OSI News –

  • Airlines weigh Middle East cancellations after US strikes in Iran

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Commercial airlines around the world on Monday were weighing how long to suspend Middle East flights as a conflict which has already cut off major flight routes entered a new phase after the U.S. attacked key Iranian nuclear sites and Tehran vowed to defend itself.

    The usually busy airspace stretching from Iran and Iraq to the Mediterranean has been largely empty of commercial air traffic for 10 days since Israel began strikes on Iran on June 13, as airlines divert, cancel and delay flights through the region due to airspace closures and safety concerns.

    New cancellations of some flights by international carriers in recent days to usually resilient aviation hubs like Dubai, the world’s busiest international airport, and Qatar’s Doha, show how aviation industry concerns about the region have escalated.
    However, some international airlines were resuming services on Monday.

    Leading Asian carrier Singapore Airlines, which described the situation as “fluid”, was set to resume flying to Dubai on Monday after cancelling its Sunday flight from Singapore.

    Similarly, Flightradar24 departure boards show British Airways, owned by IAG, was set to resume Dubai and Doha flights on Monday after cancelling routes to and from those airports on Sunday.

    Air France KLM cancelled flights to and from Dubai and Riyadh on Sunday and Monday.

    With Russian and Ukrainian airspace also closed to most airlines due to years of war, the Middle East had become a more important route for flights between Europe and Asia. Amid missile and air strikes during the past 10 days, airlines have routed north via the Caspian Sea or south via Egypt and Saudi Arabia.

    Added to increased fuel and crew costs from these long detours and cancellations, carriers also face a potential hike in jet fuel costs as oil prices rise following the U.S. attacks.

    AIRSPACE RISKS

    Proliferating conflict zones are an increasing operational burden on airlines, as aerial attacks raise worries about accidental or deliberate shoot-downs of commercial air traffic.

    Location spoofing and GPS interference around political hotspots, where ground-based GPS systems broadcast incorrect positions which can send commercial airliners off course, are also a growing issue for commercial aviation.

    Flightradar24 told Reuters it had seen a “dramatic increase” in jamming and spoofing in recent days over the Persian Gulf. SkAI, a Swiss company that runs a GPS disruption map, late on Sunday said it had observed more than 150 aircraft spoofed in 24 hours there.

    Safe Airspace, a website run by OPSGROUP, a membership-based organisation that shares flight risk information, noted on Sunday that U.S. attacks on Iran’s nuclear sites could heighten the threat to American operators in the region.

    This could raise additional airspace risks in Gulf states like Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, it said.

    In the days before the U.S. strikes, American Airlines suspended flights to Qatar, and United Airlines and Air Canada did the same with flights to Dubai. They have yet to resume.

    While international airlines are shying away from the region, local carriers in Jordan, Lebanon and Iraq are tentatively resuming some flights after widespread cancellations.

    Israel is ramping up flights to help people return home, and leave. The country’s Airports Authority says that so-called rescue flights to the country would expand on Monday with 24 a day, although each flight would be limited to 50 passengers.

    From Monday, Israeli airlines will start to operate outbound flights from Israel, the authority said.

    Israeli airline El Al on Sunday said it had received applications to leave the country from about 25,000 people in about a day.

    (Reuters)

  • Tesla rolls out robotaxis in Texas test

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Tesla deployed a small group of self-driving taxis picking up paying passengers on Sunday in Austin, Texas, with CEO Elon Musk announcing the “robotaxi launch” and social-media influencers posting videos of their first rides.

    The event marked the first time Tesla cars without human drivers have carried paying riders, a business that Musk sees as crucial to the electric car maker’s financial future.

    He called the moment the “culmination of a decade of hard work” in a post on his social-media platform X and noted that “the AI chip and software teams were built from scratch within Tesla.”

    Teslas were spotted early Sunday in a neighborhood called South Congress with no one in the driver’s seat but one person in the passenger seat. The automaker planned a small trial with about 10 vehicles and front-seat riders acting as “safety monitors,” though it remained unclear how much control they had over the vehicles.

    In recent days, the automaker sent invites to a select group of influencers for a carefully monitored robotaxi trial in a limited zone. The rides are being offered for a flat fee of $4.20, Musk said on X.

    Tesla investor and social-media personality Sawyer Merritt posted videos on X Sunday afternoon showing him ordering getting picked up, and taking a ride to a nearby bar and restaurant, Frazier’s Long and Low, using a Tesla robotaxi app.

    If Tesla succeeds with the small deployment, it still faces major challenges in delivering on Musk’s promises to scale up quickly in Austin and other cities, industry experts say.

    It could take years or decades for Tesla and self-driving rivals, such as Alphabet’s Waymo, to fully develop a robotaxi industry, said Philip Koopman, a Carnegie Mellon University computer-engineering professor with expertise in autonomous-vehicle technology.

    A successful Austin trial for Tesla, he said, would be “the end of the beginning – not the beginning of the end.”
    Most of Tesla’s sky-high stock value now rests on its ability to deliver robotaxis and humanoid robots, according to many industry analysts. Tesla is by far the world’s most valuable automaker.

    As Tesla’s robotaxi-rollout date approached, Texas lawmakers moved to enact autonomous-vehicle rules. Texas Governor Greg Abbott, a Republican, on Friday signed legislation requiring a state permit to operate self-driving vehicles.

    The law, which takes effect September 1, signals that state officials from both parties want the driverless-vehicle industry to proceed cautiously.

    Tesla did not respond to requests for comment. The governor’s office declined to comment.

    “EASY TO GET, EASY TO LOSE”

    The law softens the state’s previous anti-regulation stance on autonomous vehicles. A 2017 Texas law specifically prohibited cities from regulating self-driving cars.

    The new law requires autonomous-vehicle operators to get approval from the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles before operating on public streets without a human driver. It gives state authorities the power to revoke permits for operators they deem a public danger.

    The law also requires firms to provide information on how first responders can deal with their driverless vehicles in emergency situations.

    The law’s permit requirements for an “automated motor vehicle” are not onerous but require firms to attest their vehicles can operate legally and safely.

    It defines an automated vehicle as having at least “Level 4” autonomous-driving capability under a recognized standard, meaning it can operate with no human driver under specified conditions. Level 5 autonomy is the top level and means a car can drive itself anywhere, under any conditions.

    Compliance remains far easier than in some states, notably California, which requires submission of vehicle-testing data under state oversight.

    Bryant Walker Smith, a University of South Carolina law professor who focuses on autonomous driving, said it appears any company that meets minimum application requirements will get a Texas permit – but could also lose it if problems arise.

    “California permits are hard to get, easy to lose,” he said. “In Texas, the permit is easy to get and easy to lose.”

    MUSK’S SAFETY PLEDGES

    The Tesla robotaxi rollout comes after more than a decade of Musk’s unfulfilled promises to deliver self-driving Teslas.

    Musk has said Tesla would be “super paranoid” about robotaxi safety in Austin, including operating in limited areas.

    The service in Austin will have other restrictions as well. Tesla plans to avoid bad weather, difficult intersections, and will not carry anyone below age 18.

    Commercializing autonomous vehicles has been risky and expensive. GM’s Cruise was shut down after a serious accident. Regulators are closely watching Tesla and its rivals, Waymo and Amazon’s Zoox.

    Tesla is also bucking the young industry’s standard practice of relying on multiple technologies to read the road, using only cameras. That, Musk says, will be safe and much less expensive than lidar and radar systems added by rivals.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI: Boyuan Capital (investment platform under Bosch Group) and Galbot Forged JV

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BEIJING, June 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — On June 17, 2025, Boyuan Capital (the market-oriented investment platform under the Bosch Group), announced a joint venture named BOYIN INNOVATION ALLIANCE with Galbot, a market leading innovator in building general-purpose humanoid robots powered by Embodied AI.

    The collaboration was officially unveiled at the “Open Bosch: Embodied AI Day” event on June 17. On the same day, Bosch China, Boyuan Capital, and Galbot signed a strategic memorandum of understanding (MOU) to jointly advance the R&D and commercialization of Embodied Intelligent Robotics.

    The joint venture will focus on industrial applications with Embodied AI in high-precision manufacturing—such as complex assembly— aiming at promoting the large-scale industrial deployment of Embodied AI and accelerating the global adoption of Embodied AI technologies. It will leverage Galbot’s proprietary Embodied AI technology, replace traditional rule-based and programmed automation deployment methods with Embodied AI models trained on real industrial scenario data, and develop next-generation intelligent robot systems for industrial scenarios. This initiative marks a significant milestone in transitioning Embodied AI from pilot testing to scaled industrial deployment, aligning with the global acceleration of smart manufacturing.

    Galbot: A pioneer in Embodied AI

    Galbot—recognized by The Information as one of the Top Asia Startups of 2024 has emerged as a leader in Embodied AI. Galbot is Founded in May 2023 by Prof. He Wang from Peking University, who gained his PhD from Stanford.

    At the event, Galbot demonstrated its Embodied AI robots, showcasing fully autonomous capabilities in complex automotive and retail scenarios. The live demonstrations received widespread acclaim from key partners, including Bosch China, BoYuan Capital and United Automotive Electronic Systems (UAES), underscoring the maturity of Galbot’s Embodied AI technologies.

    These demonstrations showcased the maturity of Galbot’s technology stack, which includes: End-to-End VLA (Vision-Language-Action) Large Models with strong generalization capabilities; A proprietary simulation dataset containing over 10 billion high-quality robotic action data points; Advanced hardware systems featuring high-precision control and scenario adaptability.

    Strategic Collaboration and Global Reach

    As a key early milestone, BOYIN INNOVATION ALLIANCE signed a memorandum of understanding with UAES to establish RoboFab, a joint laboratory dedicated to cultivating automotive-operations related expertise in Embodied AI and redefining industrialization.

    “Embodied AI holds transformative potential to redefine manufacturing processes. We’re already witnessing its remarkable capabilities across diverse production stages. Through this powerful synergy between Boyuan Capital and Galbot, we anticipate delivering commercially viable, scalable robotics solutions with real industry impact,” said Dr. Ingo Ramesohl, Managing Partner of Bosch Ventures.

    “The future of manufacturing lies in intelligent, adaptive systems that can learn from real-world data,” said Professor He Wang, founder of Galbot. “Through this collaboration with Bosch and Boyuan Capital, we’re building an end-to-end value chain that will deliver globally competitive Embodied AI solutions for smart manufacturing.”

    The joint venture adopts a “global design, local production” strategy, positioning it to serve key international markets including Europe, North America, and Southeast Asia.

    Industry analysts view this collaboration as a significant development in the Embodied AI sector, potentially accelerating the industrialization of AI-driven robot system in manufacturing. The partnership brings together complementary strengths: Bosch’s industrial experience, Boyuan’s financial resources and eco-system, and Galbot’s technological innovations in Embodied AI.

    Contact Person: Xiaokang Li
    Email: business@galbot.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/8ba8b74d-508b-4a6f-b65f-3dc9bb26b9fa

    The MIL Network –