NewzIntel.com

Category: Politics

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Lawmakers’ increased skills have improved efforts to resolve conflicts in Eastern Equatoria


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    Residents in Eastern Equatoria State are pleased with the recently established parliamentary caucuses, which they feel are contributing to an improved way of handling intercommunal violence by adopting adequate legislation and peacebuilding strategies.

    “We’ve been receiving lots of great feedback from local communities, who think that the work of their political representatives has become more effective,” commented Anthony Nwapa, Acting Head of the UN peacekeeping mission’s Field Office in Torit.

    For a long time, staff serving with the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), together with experts on a variety of subject matters, including leadership skills, protocol issues, the constitution-making process and conflict mitigation, are working hard to support Eastern Equatoria’s legislature.

    “It is a gradual process, but it is definitely boosting our ability to fulfill our roles and responsibilities. Our collective commitment to good governance has also increased as a result of this ongoing capacity building,” said Charles Udwar Ukech, Speaker of the Eastern Equatoria State Transitional Legislative Assembly.

    According to Governor Louis Lobong Lojore, the biggest and most important part of the regular training sessions is what they can achieve in terms of creating and maintaining peace between the state’s different communities.

    “Managing conflicts amicably is key, and it is our responsibility to make that happen,” he affirmed as he addressed the almost 100 lawmakers and clerical staff attending the latest of the UNMISS-led workshops.

    It won’t, however, be the last such session.

    “The positive results so far encourage us. We will keep assisting the state legislature in any way we can,” pledged Mr. Nwapa, who is also a Civil Affairs Officer.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Communications Committee Invites Comments on Candidates Shortlisted for Interviews to Fill Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA) Board Vacancies


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    The Portfolio Committee on Communications and Digital Technologies is inviting members of the public to comment on the nine candidates shortlisted for interviews to fill two vacancies on the Board of the Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA).

    The shortlisted candidates are Dr Lario Malungana-Mantsha, Ms Melanie Roy, Dr Natalie Skeepers, Ms Chantel Manuel, Dr Rofhiwa Mukhudwana, Ms Sithembile Nkosi, Ms Moipone Malefane, Ms Onkgopotse Phala, and Ms Sandika Daya.

    Their abridged profiles are published on the Parliament website using this link: https://tinyurl.com/3m8wsftf

    The process of filling the two vacancies on the Board of the MDDA is done in terms of section 4(1)(b) of the MDDA Act.

    Members of the public who wish to comment on the candidates have until the end of business on Tuesday, 8 July 2025.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Namibia Gears Up for Energy Transformation – Deputy Prime Minister (PM) to Speak at African Energy Week (AEW) 2025

    African Energy Week (AEW) 2025: Invest in African Energies welcomes Natangwe Paulus Ithete, Namibia’s newly appointed Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Industrialization, Mines and Energy, as a featured speaker at this year’s edition, taking place from September 29 to October 3 in Cape Town. Minister Ithete’s confirmation comes at a defining moment for Namibia’s energy sector, as the country accelerates large-scale investments in hydrocarbons, renewables and industrial infrastructure.

    Appointed in March 2025 as part of President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah’s new administration, Minister Ithete steps into his role amid a surge of high-impact activity across Namibia’s energy landscape. The country has captured international attention following a string of offshore oil discoveries by Shell, TotalEnergies and Galp, positioning Namibia as one of the world’s most promising new petroleum frontiers. Since Minister Ithete took office, momentum has only accelerated: TotalEnergies is expected to submit a development plan for its giant Venus discovery by July 2025, targeting a final investment decision next year for what could become Namibia’s first major offshore oil development. Galp confirmed a significant light oil find at its Mopane-3X well in February, while Rhino Resources struck oil at the Capricornus-1X well in April. Chevron is advancing plans to drill a new exploration well in the Walvis Basin, and Namibia is expanding licensing opportunities through its open-door system introduced last year. These developments are backed by government efforts to streamline fiscal terms, de-risk investment and solidify Namibia’s position as one of the most dynamic and closely watched frontiers in global oil and gas.

    In parallel, the government has reaffirmed its commitment to scaling up renewable energy and positioning Namibia as a green hydrogen hub for the region. The $10-billion Hyphen Hydrogen Energy project, which aims to produce green ammonia for export from the Tsau //Khaeb National Park, is progressing steadily, backed by international partners including the EU and Germany. Namibia’s renewables strategy has also attracted global developers to solar and wind projects across the country, contributing to regional energy security and industrial expansion.

    Minister Ithete has moved swiftly to align policy with these opportunities. In his first few months in office, he outlined the government’s intention to streamline regulatory processes, accelerate infrastructure development and strengthen fiscal and legal frameworks for investment. Speaking at the Namibia International Energy Conference in April, he emphasized the importance of building an enabling environment for energy companies, while ensuring that Namibians benefit meaningfully from the country’s natural resource wealth.

    These priorities are reinforced by Namibia’s broader industrialization agenda. In May, Minister Ithete introduced a NAD 637.5 million budget to support industrial growth and renewable energy expansion. The funding targets the development of value-added industries, energy infrastructure and technical capacity across key sectors, forming part of a longer-term strategy to move beyond resource extraction and into domestic processing and export-led industrialization.

    “Namibia’s transformation from a frontier market to a serious energy and industrial contender has been nothing short of remarkable,” states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber. “The appointment of Minister Natangwe Ithete reflects a strong political commitment to getting the fundamentals right – from regulatory clarity to infrastructure and local content. His leadership brings new energy to Namibia’s vision for growth, and we look forward to welcoming him at AEW 2025.”

    With a growing number of bilateral and commercial partnerships underway – including recent cooperation talks with China on energy and industrial development – Namibia is rapidly emerging as one of Africa’s most dynamic energy investment destinations. The country is pursuing a holistic approach that leverages its oil and gas potential, renewable resources and strategic geographic location to become a regional supply hub and industrial center.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

    About AEW: Invest in African Energies:
    AEW: Invest in African Energies is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit www.AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Libya: Youth stress the need for a clear and realistic roadmap in online consultation led by Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary General – Political (DSRSG-P) Koury


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    As part of its series of dedicated youth consultations, Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary General – Political, Stephanie Koury, held an online consultation on Sunday with fifty-seven young men and women from across the country to discuss their ideas on the next steps in the political process. 

    All participants were encouraged to complete the online poll [link] and share it with their friends and families to ensure all community voices are heard by the Mission while designing the roadmap. 

    A primary concern highlighted by participants was the volatile security situation and the need to prioritize stability to create an environment conducive to political progress. They further stressed the need for a clear and realistic roadmap with a mechanism for including those who are marginalized or have previously been excluded from the political process, and decision-making. 

    “Inclusion should not be symbolic, it should be built into every part of government,” said one participant, adding, “we cannot build a lasting peace while regions, tribes and communities are under-represented or excluded.” 

    Participants also flagged the importance of tackling the worsening economic situation, noting a degradation of services and the lack of transparency in managing public resources.  They further stressed the need to integrate a security dimension in the economic approach to provide youth with viable alternatives.  

    “We must integrate young people who have joined armed groups back into society and state institutions,” said one participant. “We have to provide them with better economic opportunities.” 

    In May, UNSMIL published the Executive Summary of the Advisory Committee’s Report which outlines four proposed options to move the political process forward: 

    1. Conducting presidential and legislative elections simultaneously; 

    2. Conducting parliamentary elections first, followed by the adoption of a permanent constitution; 

    3. Adopting a permanent constitution before elections; or 

    4. Establishing a political dialogue committee, based on the Libyan Political Agreement to finalize electoral laws, executive authority and permanent constitution.  

    The different options presented by the Advisory Committee were broadly appreciated by the participants, with participants conveying different preferences. Participants also highlighted that working on the constitution was crucial to the process – some said that should come first, others after a parliamentary election. While several expressed support for option 4, some  also raised concerns that any dialogue forum created through option 4 would become permanent. In this regard, they emphasized the need for guarantees to prevent repeating past mistakes and put the country on a path of real change. 

    Participants also criticized UNSMIL for not putting forward a roadmap at the UN Security Council briefing on 24 June, saying that they did not want to wait any longer.    

    DSRSG Koury explained that the SRSG will be presenting the roadmap to the Security Council in her briefing in August, stating that we are moving forward as soon as possible but that the Mission also wanted all Libyans to participate in developing the upcoming roadmap.  

    “It is important that sufficient consensus is built on a way forward and this includes through consultations like this, which we will be holding more of over the next month, to ensure that we reach as many people as possible. This process is about the Libyan people and for the Libyan people,” Koury said.   

    DSRSG Koury further explained that Libya is not under chapter 7 in relation to the political process, but only for arms embargo and assets freeze, and thus, our role is to support and facilitate a Libyan led political process that addresses the Libyan people’s needs and aspirations.  

    Further youth consultations will be taking place throughout July with more information available here.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL).

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Portfolio Committee on Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) Committee Condemns Killing of Ekurhuleni Metro’s Forensic Audit Chief


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    The Portfolio Committee on Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) has learned with shock about the brutal assassination of Mr Mpho Mafole, the City of Ekurhuleni’s group divisional head of corporate and forensic audits.

    According to media reports, the 47-year-old was gunned down on Monday while driving along the R23 in Esselen Park. Police reportedly discovered Mr Mafole’s body inside his vehicle, riddled with gunshot wounds.

    Mr Mafole, who was appointed to the position only three months ago, brought with him an impressive track record of public service, including 14 years in the Office of the Auditor-General of South Africa. He was tasked with uncovering financial irregularities and promoting transparency in the City of Ekurhuleni, one of the country’s largest municipalities.

    Committee Chairperson Dr Zweli Mkhize said the nature of Mr Mafole’s work underscored the often-dangerous responsibilities undertaken by those at the forefront of rooting out corruption in our public institutions. “The committee condemns this cowardly and violent act as this not only threatens the lives of dedicated public servants but also seeks to intimidate and hinder efforts to build clean and accountable governance, particularly in our municipalities where systemic failures persist,” said the Chairperson.

    Dr Mkhize said this tragedy is a stark reminder of the urgent need to strengthen the protection of whistleblowers and anti-corruption officials. “Reforms to safeguard those who speak out and act against corruption must urgently be expedited.” He said municipalities, and the rest of government, must uphold the highest standards of financial oversight and integrity.

    The Chairperson also noted that this tragedy comes as the committee prepares for the start of extensive oversight visits across provinces to demand accountability from municipalities following the latest dismal municipal audit outcomes. “The committee will continue to exercise its oversight mandate, working with all spheres of government to ensure that those who risk their lives in service of public accountability are protected and that the rot that enables criminality is eradicated,” he said.

    “The committee extends its heartfelt condolences to Mr Mafole’s family, colleagues, and loved ones during this difficult time. We urge law enforcement agencies to bring the perpetrators to justice swiftly.”

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Leaders Across Vermont Support Welch’s Bill to Reform FEMA 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    “I appreciate Senator Welch taking on the challenge to create an expedited, more efficient, and flexible emergency management system.” 
    “Nearly every municipal leader impacted by recent flooding in Vermont has told me that FEMA has been difficult to work with. I’m pleased to see Senator Welch proposing reforms to address these concerns.” 
    “What is needed, and what this bill would do, is build state and local capacity to prepare, mitigate, respond, and recover while making more efficient and effective use of federal resources.” 
    “We are grateful to Senator Welch for proposing a commonsense solution that would provide technical assistance, simplified procedures and support for long-term resiliency to municipalities that are in need.” 
    “Senator Welch’s Disaster AID Act provides a path toward more timely and effective recovery, especially for Vermont’s hardest-hit towns.” 
    “This legislation represents a fundamental shift in the way we administer hazard mitigation funding.” 
    WESTON, VT—U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.)’s Disaster Assistance Improvement and Decentralization (AID) Act has earned the support of community leaders across Vermont.  
    Senator Welch’s Disaster AID Act will cut red tape and empower state and local governments to access recovery assistance when it is needed. The bill will support hazard mitigation efforts, make the delivery of disaster aid more efficient and effective, provide technical assistance to small towns and communities impacted by natural disasters, and block the White House from withholding funding for disaster response. He will officially introduce the Disaster AID Act next week, coinciding with the anniversary of the 2023 and 2024 floods.  
    “FEMA does lifesaving and important work after a disaster, but we need to find a way to fix the agency so it works better to help communities recover in the weeks, months, and years after a disaster. Vermont saw it firsthand: there’s too much red tape, and the long-term recovery process is inefficient,” said Senator Welch. “The Disaster AID Act is inspired by the experiences of flood-impacted Vermont communities that had to wait too long—and jump through far too many hoops—to get the federal support needed to build back after a disaster. I am proud the Disaster AID Act has earned the support of community and disaster recovery leaders across our state, and thank them for helping shape this commonsense bill.” 
    Vermont Governor Phil Scott, and Kristin Atwood, Barton Town Clerk; Ted Brady, Executive Director of the Vermont League of Cities and Towns; Michele Braun, Executive Director of the Friends of the Winooski River; Chris Campany, Executive Director of the Windham Regional Commission, and Chair of the VAPDA Emergency Management Committee; Jon Copans, Executive Director, Montpelier Commission for Recovery and Resilience; Ben Doyle, Executive Director of the Preservation Trust of Vermont; Peter Gregory, Executive Director of the Two Rivers-Ottauquechee Regional Commission (TRORC); Thom Lauzon, Mayor of Barre City; Kristen Leahy, Zoning and Floodplain Administrator and Resilience & Adaption Coordinator for Hardwick; Jim Linville, Selectboard Vice Chair and Recovery Director of Weston; Julie Moore, Secretary of the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources; Stephanie Smith, Vermont Hazard Mitigation Officer; Justin Smith, Municipal Administrator for the Town of Lyndon; and Beverley Wemple, Director of the University of Vermont’s Water Resources Institute.    
    “After facing devastating floods over the last two summers, Vermonters have seen firsthand, the value of federal support and assistance from FEMA workers. However, we’ve also experienced gaps between response and recovery, and we need to make changes that better support responders on the ground and those trying to rebuild. I appreciate Senator Welch taking on the challenge to create an expedited, more efficient, and flexible emergency management system,” said Governor Phil Scott.  
    “The Town of Barton, Vermont, has been hit two years in a row on the same date by disastrous flooding. The unknowns of funding around that have us delaying needed normal maintenance until FEMA funds are received to cover flooding repairs, and slowing down the repairs to make sure those funds flow in before the next project is underway. This unknown funding element has the Town worrying as we look to the future instead of confident FEMA will have our backs. Our ability to prepare for and mitigate the next storm is significantly impacted by our unwillingness to overextend ourselves in case FEMA funding does not come through. This puts us at greater risk of damage if another storm were to come before we have completed recovery from the prior two,” said Kristin Atwood, Barton Town Clerk.   
    “Vermont municipalities can’t prepare for or recover from a disaster without the federal government’s help. Nearly every municipal leader impacted by recent flooding in Vermont has told me that FEMA has been difficult to work with. I’m pleased to see Senator Welch proposing reforms to address these concerns. The ballooning federal bureaucracy, rotating FEMA staff, inconsistent funding, and requirement to take on debt have combined to make recovering from the flooding here in Vermont another disaster. The Disaster AID Act addresses these challenges by providing technical assistance to municipalities before a disaster hits, providing disaster aid immediately to reduce the debt towns need to take on, and cutting down on the red tape communities need to navigate to access federal assistance,” said Ted Brady, Executive Director of the Vermont League of Cities and Towns.   
    “Having helped dozens of towns to recover from devastating floods, we know firsthand that FEMA’s procedures are a barrier to accessing critical funds. Friends of the Winooski River appreciates Senator Welch’s efforts to improve access to the resources our communities desperately need for flood recovery and future health and safety,” said Michele Braun, Executive Director of the Friends of the Winooski River.  
    “FEMA provides critical resources and structure for disaster preparedness, mitigation, response, and recovery, but it needs reform to make it work better for people and their communities. I don’t think there’s disagreement there, including among FEMA rank and file personnel. Congress needs to act. What is needed, and what this bill would do, is build state and local capacity to prepare, mitigate, respond, and recover while making more efficient and effective use of federal resources,” said Chris Campany, Executive Director of the Windham Regional Commission, and Chair of the Vermont Association of Planning and Development Agencies (VAPDA) Emergency Management Committee.  
    “While it is far from perfect, the Federal Emergency Management Agency has repeatedly proven to be a critical part of disaster response here in Central Vermont.  I commend Senator Peter Welch for his efforts to improve FEMA’s process and provide support to small municipalities as we struggle to navigate the bureaucracy to help our communities recover.  The Disaster Assistance and Decentralization Act takes important steps to reform and strengthen federal disaster response so that cities and towns across the country can recover more quickly and make critical investments in future resilience,” said Jon Copans, Executive Director, Montpelier Commission for Recovery and Resilience.  
    “One thing that became clear very quickly after the 2023 flood is that if you’ve seen one small town dealing with a disaster, you’ve seen one small town dealing with a disaster. The impacts on homes, businesses, and infrastructure, were all significant, but they were different depending on the community—and the capacity of municipalities to respond and support residents varied widely. While FEMA representatives were on the ground and well-intentioned, the truth is they were often more prepared to tell people what they couldn’t do because of regulations than to help them rebuild their lives. We need the federal government to meet people where they are—regardless of the size of the community or the scale of the disaster—and provide tailored technical assistance, financial support, and, most importantly, hope.” said Ben Doyle, Executive Director of the Preservation Trust of Vermont.  
    “We are very appreciative of Senator Welch’s proposal to reform FEMA and how it interacts with Vermonters. His proposal explicitly enables regional planning commissions to work as agents of municipalities when interacting with FEMA. We were pleased to offer this idea and even more pleased to help our communities,” said Peter Gregory, Executive Director of the Two Rivers-Ottauquechee Regional Commission (TRORC).   
    “The City of Barre was hit hard by the 2023 and 2024 floods, and we are grateful to the many people who have and continue to help us rebuild better and stronger. While we’ve made significant progress, there’s much more work to be done. We are grateful to Senator Welch for proposing a commonsense solution that would provide technical assistance, simplified procedures and support for long-term resiliency to municipalities that are in need. We need to fix FEMA, not kill it,” said Thom Lauzon, Mayor of Barre City.   
    “Hardwick has faced devastating impacts from back-to-back floods in 2023 and 2024, with repeated damage to homes, businesses, and public infrastructure along the Lamoille River. One example is 41 Brush Street, a residential property now hanging precariously over the riverbank due to severe erosion. The home is slated for a FEMA-funded buyout, and additional stabilization is needed to protect surrounding properties. FEMA’s Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities program is essential for communities like ours, not only for rebuilding but for implementing long-term solutions that reduce future risk. Without sustained and accessible funding, rural towns will be left in a cycle of damage and short-term fixes. Senator Welch’s Disaster AID Act provides a path toward more timely and effective recovery, especially for Vermont’s hardest-hit towns,” said Kristen Leahy, Zoning and Floodplain Administrator and Resilience & Adaption Coordinator for Hardwick.  
    “The support for small towns in Senator Welch’s Disaster AID Act is crucial in enabling towns in Vermont and nationwide to obtain the expert assistance they require in responding to disasters, as well as identifying, designing and funding mitigation projects. Five months after the July 2023 flood in Weston, we applied for and received an MTAP grant that allowed us to retain professional help to guide us through the grant maze and get a head start on modeling the flooding and designing mitigation projects. Our hope is that with passage of the Disaster AID Act, this sort of assistance will be available soon after the next (inevitable) disaster event so our town fathers and mothers aren’t wringing their hands trying to figure out what to do, how to do it and how to pay for it,” said Jim Linville, Selectboard Vice Chair and Recovery Director of Weston.  
    “Vermont has experienced multiple federally-declared disasters since 2023 which laid bare Vermont municipalities’ need for additional technical assistance,” said ANR Secretary Julie Moore. “The Disaster Assistance Improvement and Decentralization Act would help fill this critical need. In particular, we are grateful to Sen. Welch for his continued efforts to simplify procedures for complex relocation projects for critical facilities, such as the wastewater treatment facilities in Johnson, Hardwick and Ludlow – all of which have experienced repeated flood damage.”  
    “The BRIC program greatly improved Vermont’s ability to do the planning and scoping work necessary in order to develop important flood reduction projects in our communities,” said Stephanie Smith, Vermont Hazard Mitigation Section Chief. “This legislation represents a fundamental shift in the way we administer hazard mitigation funding that would allow us to successfully and efficiently utilize federal resources to reduce future flood risk in Vermont.”  
    “Like many rural towns in Vermont, Lyndon is not blessed with a large staff to handle the volume of paperwork required to receive funding from FEMA when a disaster occurs.  Many towns in rural Vermont are not even fortunate enough to have a Municipal Administrator or Manager in place to handle the paper trail and are forced to rely solely on volunteers in their community. We understand and support the necessity of ensuring that funds are being properly spent and accounted for.  However, there is a strong need to create a system where communities have one point of contact throughout the entirety of a declared disaster. Small Vermont communities such as ours, do not have the resources or the personnel work hours to start and re-start the process of disaster re-imbursement from scratch because a FEMA PDMG has reached their 50-week time limit and must move on,” said Justin Smith, Municipal Administrator for the Town of Lyndon. “Taking away a single employee from their normal day to day responsibilities to devote to disaster recovery severely understaffs any rural community, and extending this length of time attempting to get a new PDMG or multiple PDMGs up to speed is time and money that rural communities don’t have the luxury of wasting.”  
    “The Disaster Assistance Improvement and Decentralization (AID) Act will provide critical assistance to communities impacted by flooding and other disasters. The bill’s provisions will get assistance into the hands of those who need it more rapidly following disasters. In Vermont and communities across the country, investments in hazard mitigation projects enabled by the Act, like reconnecting rivers to floodplains that store and dissipate the energy of floodwaters, will make communities safer and ensure we are prepared for the future in a way that also supports healthy ecosystems,” said Beverley Wemple, Director of the University of Vermont’s Water Resources Institute. “Thank you, Senator Welch, for introducing this important piece of legislation that will support all Americans in meeting the challenges of future natural disasters.”  
    •••
    Over the course of consecutive summers in July 2023 and July 2024, Vermont experienced severe storms which caused catastrophic flooding, washouts, and mudslides. Homes, farms, businesses, and public infrastructure were destroyed, and communities were left reeling. In the immediate aftermath of the destruction, FEMA provided lifesaving on-the-ground assistance, working with local organizations and the state. In the long-term, however, FEMA’s response has not met the needs of communities.   
    Many of Vermont’s towns operate with limited resources and lack the administrative capacity needed to navigate the complex web of federal disaster assistance—especially in the aftermath of a brutal flood. FEMA has failed to provide necessary support and burdensome FEMA policies have slowed or blocked communities from accessing federal funds. Towns were not empowered to capitalize on their understanding of conditions on the ground. To make matters worse, under the Trump Administration, communities must now contend with uncertain federal funding streams, including for reimbursement of projects already approved and under way.  
    Senator Welch’s Disaster AID Act will cut red tape and ease cumbersome requirements that restrict state and local governments from tailoring solutions to local circumstances. The bill will also provide technical and financial resources for small towns and communities that lack administrative capacity, and restrain future administrations from arbitrarily turning off the funding spigot for communities in the midst of disaster recovery.  
    Learn more about the Disaster AID Act.  
    Read a section-by-section summary of the Disaster AID Act.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: G7 Foreign Ministers’ statement on Iran and the Middle East

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    G7 Foreign Ministers’ statement on Iran and the Middle East

    Joint Statement of the G7 Foreign Ministers on Iran and the Middle East

    Joint statement:

    We the G7 Foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States of America, and the High Representative of the European Union, met in The Hague on June 25, 2025, where we discussed recent events in the Middle East.

    We reiterate our support for the ceasefire between Israel and Iran announced by U.S. President Trump, and urge all parties to avoid actions that could further destabilize the region.

    We appreciate Qatar’s important role in facilitating the ceasefire and express our full solidarity to Qatar and Iraq following the recent strikes by Iran and its proxies and partners against their territory. We welcome all efforts in the region towards stabilization and de-escalation.

    We reaffirm that the Islamic Republic of Iran can never have nuclear weapons, and urge Iran to refrain from reconstituting its unjustified enrichment activities. We call for the resumption of negotiations, resulting in a comprehensive, verifiable and durable agreement that addresses Iran’s nuclear program.

    In order to have a sustainable and credible resolution, we call on Iran to urgently resume full cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) as required by its safeguards obligations and to provide the IAEA with verifiable information about all nuclear material in Iran, including by providing access to IAEA inspectors. We condemn calls in Iran for the arrest and execution of IAEA Director General Grossi.

    We underscore the centrality of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) as the cornerstone of the global nuclear non-proliferation regime. It is essential that Iran remains party to and fully implements its obligations under the Treaty.

    We reiterate our commitment to peace and stability in the Middle East. In this context, we reaffirm that Israel has a right to defend itself. We reiterate our support for the security of Israel.

    Media enquiries

    Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

    Telephone 020 7008 3100

    Email the FCDO Newsdesk (monitored 24 hours a day) in the first instance, and we will respond as soon as possible.

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Nearly Three-Quarters of World Heritage Sites Are at High Risk from Water-Related Hazards

    Source: UNESCO World Heritage Centre

    A new analysis by UNESCO and World Resources Institute (WRI) reveals that 73% of World Heritage sites are highly exposed to water-related hazards, such as drought, water stress, or riverine and coastal flooding. Strengthening water stewardship is essential to protect these sites and the communities and ecosystems they sustain.

    A Precious Resource Under Growing Threat

    Water-related hazards—including floods, droughts, and storms—have accounted for over 90% of the world’s major disasters since 1970, resulting in more than 2 million deaths and economic losses exceeding USD 3.6 trillion, according to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). World Heritage sites have not been exempted from these hazards and face increasing threats to their natural and cultural values. These sites stand as powerful reminders of humanity’s enduring relationship with water. From awe-inspiring landscapes shaped over millennia to cultural landmarks forged through human ingenuity—such as ancient irrigation systems, historic canals, and modern engineering achievements—they reflect the cooperation with nature that has enabled societies to flourish across generations. Yet, while water is fundamental to their significance, it can also pose serious risks when its balance is disrupted, threatening the integrity of these irreplaceable places.

    A new analysis by UNESCO and World Resources Institute (WRI) highlights the scale of these threats: 73% of World Heritage sites are highly exposed to at least one water-related hazard—such as drought, water stress, or riverine and coastal flooding—and 21% face multiple overlapping risks. Around the world, World Heritage sites are increasingly caught between the extremes of too much and too little water, with climate change, urbanization, river regulation, and upstream water withdrawals intensifying these pressures, especially in regions such as the Middle East, North Africa, parts of South Asia, and northern China.

    “The Aqueduct Water Risk Atlas gives us critical data to track how water risks are evolving around the world. These insights are more urgent than ever, helping governments, site managers, and communities take targeted action — before floods, droughts, or water shortages cause irreversible damage to treasured places that serve as lifelines for both people and ecosystems,”

    Approximately 600 World Heritage sites are highly exposed to water scarcity conditions — reflected in water stress or drought— making it the most widespread water-related risk, threatening nearly half of all properties. The vast majority (around 90%) of these exposed sites are cultural properties . While natural sites face a comparatively lower level of exposure, they are increasingly experiencing conditions that place growing stress on ecosystems and biodiversity. Sites such as the Ahwar of Southern Iraq and Mosi-oa-Tunya / Victoria Falls (Zambia / Zimbabwe) have endured severe multi-year droughts since 2020. Drought also heightens the risk of wildfires, compounding the damage: in the Pantanal Conservation Area (Brazil) and Noel Kempff Mercado National Park (Bolivia), prolonged dry conditions have fueled intense fires with severe impacts on flora, fauna, and local communities.

    Drought at Mosi-oa-Tunya / Victoria Falls (Zambia / Zimbabwe) in 2019 / Source: Copernicus Browser

    Severe flood risk, both riverine and coastal, affects approximately 400 World Heritage sites. Floods have already impacted both natural and cultural World Heritage properties, highlighting the urgent need for strengthened resilience. In 2020, Rwenzori Mountains National Park (Uganda) experienced significant climate-related flooding that that disrupted river systems, posing challenges for both local communities and wildlife. In 2022, major flooding led to the temporary closure of Yellowstone National Park (United States of America), with over $20 million required for infrastructure repairs before the park could reopen. More recently, in 2024, severe flooding in Kaziranga National Park (India) resulted in the loss of more than 200 animals, including 10 endangered rhinos, while Sagarmatha National Park (Nepal) has been affected by Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) linked to accelerating glacial retreat.

    © ICIMOD

    Cultural sites have also experienced serious impacts from flooding. The catastrophic floods that left nearly one-third of Pakistan submerged in 2022 caused significant damage to the Archaeological Ruins at Moenjodaro. Other ancient sites such as the Minaret and Archaeological Remains of Jam (Afghanistan), Angkor (Cambodia) and Petra (Jordan), have also been affected by flooding, with damage to their integrity. In parts of Africa, communities in Timbuktu (Mali) and the Historic Centre of Agadez (Niger) are facing the compounded challenges of severe drought followed by intense flooding — a clear illustration of increasing climate variability.

    Flood at Archaeological Ruins at Moenjodaro (Pakistan) in 2022 / Source: Copernicus Browser

    Around 50 World Heritage sites are highly exposed to coastal flooding. Some cultural sites are already experiencing the impacts, with growing risks to their integrity. The Complex of Hué Monuments (Viet Nam) has endured repeated flooding in recent years, accelerating deterioration. The Forts and Castles along the coast of Ghana, face increasing danger from shoreline erosion and rising seas, putting at risk these important remains of fortified trading posts that formed part of early global trade history. While coastal flooding has not yet caused major reported damage at natural World Heritage sites, the risk is rising. Sites such as the Migratory Bird Sanctuaries along the Coast of Yellow Sea-Bohai Gulf of China and Banc d’Arguin National Park (Mauritania) are highly vulnerable, as sea level rise could transform or submerge critical coastal habitats essential for migratory species.

    “This analysis underscores the urgent need to address water-related risks to World Heritage sites, which are being intensified by climate change. Strengthening resilience through innovation, traditional knowledge, and cooperation is essential to safeguarding these irreplaceable places for future generations.”

    Towards Solutions: Protecting Heritage Through Water Stewardship

    Despite these challenges, examples of effective action demonstrate that solutions are possible—particularly when supported by international cooperation, innovation, and traditional knowledge. UNESCO actively supports States Parties in addressing water-related threats through a combination of emergency mechanisms, technical guidance, and long-term cooperation. Emergency support is provided through instruments such as the World Heritage Fund’s International Assistance, the Rapid Response Facility (RRF) and the Heritage Emergency Fund (HEF), while expert missions under the World Heritage Convention’s Reactive Monitoring process help guide response efforts. UNESCO also provides capacity building and technical support to strengthen local responses, contributing to long-term resilience, disaster risk reduction, and sustainable water management at World Heritage sites through programmes such as the Intergovernmental Hydrological Programme (IHP).

    Integrated water resource management (IWRM) — which promotes the coordinated development and management of water, land, and related resources — is increasingly being incorporated into conservation strategies for World Heritage properties. At Petra (Jordan) and the Old City of Sana’a (Yemen), for example, IWRM principles are guiding flood risk reduction strategies such as early warning systems, which help safeguard monuments from increasingly severe flash floods. Similarly, in the Migratory Bird Sanctuaries along the Coast of Yellow Sea-Bohai Gulf of China, a government ban on land reclamation, followed by wetland restoration efforts, has led to a fivefold increase in bird populations in some areas, providing renewed habitat for migratory species.

    © UNESCO / Community Engagement through Risk Prevention in Petra

    Heritage-sensitive climate adaptation is also key. The Chan Chan Archaeological Zone (Peru) illustrates how site managers are applying innovative water management measures — including drainage improvements and protective earthworks — to reduce the impact of increasingly intense rainfall and flooding on fragile adobe structures. At the Minaret and Archaeological Remains of Jam (Afghanistan), UNESCO has supported emergency measures to stabilize the structure following flood events that endangered its integrity, along with technical assistance for improved flood management in the surrounding valley.

    © UNESCO / The Minaret and Archaeological Remains of Jam, a UNESCO project to safeguard the iconic site

    Transboundary cooperation plays a vital role where shared water systems support World Heritage values. The Permanent Okavango River Basin Water Commission (OKACOM), through collaboration between Angola, Namibia, and Botswana, coordinates efforts to protect the seasonal flooding that sustains the Okavango Delta’s biodiversity and local livelihoods. Similarly, at Iguaçu National Park, on the border between Brazil and Argentina, park managers work with upstream stakeholders to maintain sustainable water flows that protect the falls’ ecosystem while supporting vital hydroelectric production at the Itaipu Dam. To address the consequences of melting glaciers and increased occurrences of Glacier Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) due to climate change impacts, UNESCO is engaging with communities in the Sagarmatha National Park (Nepal) to identify potential adaptation pathways using the Climate Risk Informed Decision Analysis (CRIDA).

    Traditional knowledge, community stewardship, and partnerships between local communities, national authorities, and international organizations are central to many successful initiatives. In the Rice Terraces of the Philippine Cordilleras, the revitalization of ancient irrigation systems and forest restoration supports both cultural heritage and resilience to drought and erosion. In the Ahwar of Southern Iraq, joint efforts have facilitated the restoration of marshlands, enhancing water governance and helping buffer against drought and salinity.

    Modern technology further complements these approaches. Tools such as GIS mapping, remote sensing, and water quality monitoring provide real-time data to inform decision-making and enable site managers and authorities to respond effectively to emerging threats. To support this, UNESCO’s World Heritage Online Map Platform (WHOMP), serves as an important resource for monitoring water-related risks and informing site-level planning.

    These efforts and solutions are among the many actions contributing to the protection of World Heritage sites and the strengthening of their resilience for generations to come. World Heritage sites are not static relics of the past, but dynamic systems shaped by human ingenuity, natural forces, and the enduring relationship between people and water. Strengthening their protection calls for an integrated approach that combines time-honoured practices with scientific innovation, draws on both traditional knowledge and modern science, and fosters inclusive governance and transboundary cooperation. Advancing water stewardship that supports both cultural and natural heritage is essential to safeguarding their Outstanding Universal Value and ensuring their continued contribution to sustainable development and the well-being of communities worldwide.

    UNESCO gratefully acknowledges the support of the Government of Flanders (Belgium) for the World Heritage Online Map Platform (WHOMP), which made this analysis possible.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: UNESCO Launches Groundbreaking Report on Climate Change Impacts in Mediterranean World Heritage Cities

    Source: UNESCO World Heritage Centre

    UNESCO World Heritage Centre has launched a groundbreaking new report Climate Change in Mediterranean World Heritage Cities during a high-level online event attended by over 140 participants from international organisations, national authorities, academia, and civil society. The report addresses the intersection of three important concerns around impacts of climate change on cultural heritage, the Mediterranean region as a global climate hotspot, and cities as a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions as well as of climate action. It marks a milestone in UNESCO’s efforts to bridge the knowledge gap between climate science and heritage-based adaptation planning. Combining qualitative analysis of reports from cities and settlements and Earth observation data, the study provides both Earth system models and regional climate models to identify the hazards already experienced and projections for future climate risks that the World Heritage properties should prepare for. This publication aims to raise global awareness of the gravity and urgency of the climate crisis, as well as recognise cultural heritage as a valuable resource for climate action.

    The launch event was opened by Mr Ernesto Ottone R., UNESCO Assistant Director-General for Culture who provided a broad introduction to ongoing engagements of UNESCO with regard to climate change and culture. Ms Yana Gevorgyan, Director of the GEO Secretariat emphasized the potential of Earth Intelligence and GEO’s global platforms to guide local responses to climate risks, referencing the Urban Heritage Climate Observatory (UHCO) and the Global Heat Resilience Service. While reiterating the importance of the report H.E. Ms Christina Kokkinakis, Ambassador of the European Union to UNESCO highlighted the urgency of climate change in Europe and the European Union’s priorities for achieving climate neutrality, while reflecting that “Mediterranean cities have survived for centuries—we don’t just lose a momentum, but our collective future. It is not about what we inherit, but what we choose for the future.”

    Presented by its lead co-authors, Ms Jyoti Hosagrahar, Deputy Director of the UNESCO World Heritage Centre, and Mr Evangelos Gerasopoulos, Director of the Greek GEO Office, the new publication is the first comprehensive, data-driven assessment of climate change risks to World Heritage cities in the Mediterranean region. Drawing on Earth observations, local climate projections, and qualitative reports from site managers, the study assesses 114 cities inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The results are alarming: nearly two-thirds of these cities already experience at least one climate-related hazard, such as extreme heat, flooding, droughts, or storms; and nearly a fifth of the Mediterranean World Heritage Cities report already facing 3 or more climate hazards.

    Under the worst-case scenario for 2100, coastal World Heritage cities in the region will additionally face sea-level rise, and the majority will be exposed to multiple, compounding climate hazards.

    Despite the challenges posed by climate change, World Heritage Cities are immense repositories of traditional knowledge accumulated over millennia. The report highlights key heritage-informed policies and actions, including urban planning responses to enhance resilience. Urban climate mitigation and adaptation strategies could also include adapting traditional building techniques and planning solutions to optimise climate conditions in historic cities and settlements. Case studies featured in the publication illustrate how such measures are already making a difference. Looking ahead, the report considers that a wide range of actions are required, from international policies to national and local strategies. Regular monitoring is key, as is the integration of cultural heritage into climate action plans and policies at all governmental levels. Better planning allows cities to harness resilience, adaptation and mitigation offered by their cultural heritage.

    Comments by experts during the launch event reinforced the report’s urgency and relevance. Sir Jim Skea, Chair of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), stressed the importance of scaling up climate knowledge for local action, and commended the report’s multidisciplinary approach reminding participants that the impacts of climate change are not uni-dimensional, as well as the necessity of engaging with more diverse forms of knowledge, including indigenous and local one – as demonstrated in the publication. Professor Christos S. Zerefos, Secretary General of the Academy of Athens, noted that “The culture we inherit should be preserved—not by ignoring the discomforts our monuments endure, as they can’t speak.” Ms Diana Ürge-Vorsatz, Vice-Chair of IPCC Working Group III and Chair of the Scientific Steering Committee for the upcoming IPCC Special Report on Cities and Climate Change, recognised the report as an important and timely contribution aligned with global scientific efforts. All the experts noted that the value of the lessons learned from the 114 World Heritage Cities in the Mediterranean region extended far beyond the entire world.

    Mr Lazare Eloundou Assomo, Director of the World Heritage Centre, closed the event reiterating the importance of this report for UNESCO and the World Heritage Centre, emphasising that the report is “more than a diagnosis – it is a roadmap for protecting cultural heritage in the face of climate change”, especially as we prepare for the start of the 2025 World Heritage Committee session. He called for expanded partnerships and long-term monitoring, and stated: “As the climate crisis accelerates, so must our collaborations. This is an opportunity to ensure more resilient, just, and sustainable cities where our shared heritage is safeguarded for generations to come.”

    The full publication is now available on the UNESCO platform. It aims to serve as a knowledge resource and decision-making tool for States Parties, site managers, urban planners, and heritage professionals working across the region and beyond.

    Read the publication

    Here

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI: XRP News：Limited-Time 8000 XRP Free Reward FINDMINING CEO Announces Major Giveaway for 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Atherton, California, July 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — To celebrate FINDMINING’s further expansion into the U.S. and U.K. markets in 2025, FINDMINING is launching a limited-time free reward campaign for XRP enthusiasts worldwide — every registered member has the chance to receive up to 8000 XRP for free. There are only 985 spots left, so act fast — first come, first served!

    No hardware needed, no technical barrier — mine anytime, anywhere
     With its efficient and legitimate cloud mining service, FINDMINING has become a leading company that cannot be ignored in the industry. Users don’t need to buy expensive mining rigs or have professional skills — all you need is a mobile phone or computer to start your green energy cloud mining journey anytime, anywhere, and easily earn considerable returns.

    Recently, the FINDMINING CEO told Reuters: “We are committed to upholding the legitimacy, security, and transparency of the blockchain industry and to building a trustworthy mining platform for users worldwide. Today, more and more crypto enthusiasts from the U.S., U.K., and Europe are joining FINDMINING, setting off a new wave of green energy cloud mining.”

    Chosen by over 9.4 million members worldwide

    As a regulated green energy cloud mining company, FINDMINING relies on cutting-edge technology and strict security measures. It has already attracted more than 9.4 million registered members from 175 countries, operating over 1.32 million mining devices. For crypto beginners, FINDMINING is an ideal choice, providing every user with a safe, convenient, and efficient investment environment.

    Register now to claim your 8000 XRP reward: Register Here

    What is Green Energy Cloud Mining?
     Green energy cloud mining uses mining rigs powered by renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, and hydro power. FINDMINING is one of the industry’s pioneers in applying renewable energy on a large scale, committed to delivering sustainable green mining solutions for the future.

    Trusted by real users worldwide
     Many long-term users have praised FINDMINING. A veteran member, Chakraborty, who joined in 2018, shared: “I’ve invested in several cloud mining platforms, but only FINDMINING has stood the test of time and continues to operate smoothly. I’m glad my friend recommended it to me back then, and now I recommend it to even more people.”

    Safe and reliable with guaranteed funds
     FINDMINING is legally authorized by the U.K. government. The platform uses distributed cold wallet storage, multiple bank custodians (including UBS Switzerland), SSL encryption, and other security measures to fully protect users’ crypto assets, meeting military-grade protection standards.

    Simple operation — perfect for beginners
     FINDMINING’s interface is clean and user-friendly, making it easy for anyone to get started without any technical know-how. Statistics show that every day, many XRP, BTC, SOL, and other crypto holders easily earn over 8000 XRP and more passive income through FINDMINING.

    24/7 customer support & instant transactions
     FINDMINING offers 24/7 online customer support and instant deposit and withdrawal services. Its funds reach your account at industry-leading speeds — even within seconds — making the whole process truly hassle-free.

    Flexible mining contracts for different needs

    Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced investor, you can flexibly choose the right hashrate contract based on your needs to easily secure stable returns.

    Your path to wealth starts with FINDMINING
     If you’re looking for a legal, transparent, and easy-to-operate investment opportunity, FINDMINING is undoubtedly your ideal choice. Register your FINDMINING account today, claim your limited-time 8000 XRP reward, and start your journey to wealth!

    Official Website: https://findmining.com

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: XRP News：Limited-Time 8000 XRP Free Reward FINDMINING CEO Announces Major Giveaway for 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Atherton, California, July 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — To celebrate FINDMINING’s further expansion into the U.S. and U.K. markets in 2025, FINDMINING is launching a limited-time free reward campaign for XRP enthusiasts worldwide — every registered member has the chance to receive up to 8000 XRP for free. There are only 985 spots left, so act fast — first come, first served!

    No hardware needed, no technical barrier — mine anytime, anywhere
     With its efficient and legitimate cloud mining service, FINDMINING has become a leading company that cannot be ignored in the industry. Users don’t need to buy expensive mining rigs or have professional skills — all you need is a mobile phone or computer to start your green energy cloud mining journey anytime, anywhere, and easily earn considerable returns.

    Recently, the FINDMINING CEO told Reuters: “We are committed to upholding the legitimacy, security, and transparency of the blockchain industry and to building a trustworthy mining platform for users worldwide. Today, more and more crypto enthusiasts from the U.S., U.K., and Europe are joining FINDMINING, setting off a new wave of green energy cloud mining.”

    Chosen by over 9.4 million members worldwide

    As a regulated green energy cloud mining company, FINDMINING relies on cutting-edge technology and strict security measures. It has already attracted more than 9.4 million registered members from 175 countries, operating over 1.32 million mining devices. For crypto beginners, FINDMINING is an ideal choice, providing every user with a safe, convenient, and efficient investment environment.

    Register now to claim your 8000 XRP reward: Register Here

    What is Green Energy Cloud Mining?
     Green energy cloud mining uses mining rigs powered by renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, and hydro power. FINDMINING is one of the industry’s pioneers in applying renewable energy on a large scale, committed to delivering sustainable green mining solutions for the future.

    Trusted by real users worldwide
     Many long-term users have praised FINDMINING. A veteran member, Chakraborty, who joined in 2018, shared: “I’ve invested in several cloud mining platforms, but only FINDMINING has stood the test of time and continues to operate smoothly. I’m glad my friend recommended it to me back then, and now I recommend it to even more people.”

    Safe and reliable with guaranteed funds
     FINDMINING is legally authorized by the U.K. government. The platform uses distributed cold wallet storage, multiple bank custodians (including UBS Switzerland), SSL encryption, and other security measures to fully protect users’ crypto assets, meeting military-grade protection standards.

    Simple operation — perfect for beginners
     FINDMINING’s interface is clean and user-friendly, making it easy for anyone to get started without any technical know-how. Statistics show that every day, many XRP, BTC, SOL, and other crypto holders easily earn over 8000 XRP and more passive income through FINDMINING.

    24/7 customer support & instant transactions
     FINDMINING offers 24/7 online customer support and instant deposit and withdrawal services. Its funds reach your account at industry-leading speeds — even within seconds — making the whole process truly hassle-free.

    Flexible mining contracts for different needs

    Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced investor, you can flexibly choose the right hashrate contract based on your needs to easily secure stable returns.

    Your path to wealth starts with FINDMINING
     If you’re looking for a legal, transparent, and easy-to-operate investment opportunity, FINDMINING is undoubtedly your ideal choice. Register your FINDMINING account today, claim your limited-time 8000 XRP reward, and start your journey to wealth!

    Official Website: https://findmining.com

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: NextNRG Appoints Global Logistics Authority Gary M. Goldfarb as Chairman of Newly Formed Strategic Advisory Board

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MIAMI, July 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NextNRG, Inc. (Nasdaq: NXXT), a pioneer in AI-driven energy innovation transforming how energy is produced, managed, and delivered through its Next Utility Operating System®, smart microgrids, wireless EV charging, and mobile fuel delivery, today announced a strategic advisory agreement with Goldfarb Management Services, LLC. As part of the agreement, Gary M. Goldfarb, a recognized authority in global logistics and supply chain innovation, has been appointed Chairman of NextNRG’s newly established Advisory Board.

    Mr. Goldfarb is Chairman of the Board of The World Trade Center Miami and past Chairman of the Board of the Miami-Dade Beacon Council. He is currently Chief Strategy Officer at Interport Logistics and a board member of Global Empowerment Mission, bringing decades of experience in operational infrastructure, international trade and market expansion. Mr. Goldfarb helped revitalize The Miami Free Zone, driving occupancy above 96% and growing trade volume to nearly $1 billion at its peak. He also developed and obtained patents for software solutions for international logistics (From2.com) and holds advisory roles with organizations including the World Trade Center Miami and Florida International University’s Engineering Master’s ELE Program. He brings more than 50 years of experience in international trade and supply chain management.

    “Our mission at NextNRG is to reimagine how energy is generated, managed and delivered,” said Michael D. Farkas, Executive Chairman and CEO of NextNRG. “Gary’s extensive background in logistics, distribution centers, and manufacturing operations, combined with his industry relationships, will be instrumental as we pursue strategic partnerships and business development initiatives aimed at powering commercial and industrial facilities with distributed energy generation, advanced smart grid technologies, and our revolutionary dynamic wireless charging solutions for industrial equipment and robotics.”

    NextNRG’s innovative portfolio includes cutting-edge wireless charging technology specifically designed for industrial and commercial facility operations. The company’s patented wireless charging systems provide seamless power solutions for warehouse equipment, forklifts, automated robotics, and fleet vehicles within manufacturing and distribution centers. These compact, efficient charging solutions eliminate the need for traditional plug-in infrastructure on factory floors and in logistics facilities, enabling continuous operations while reducing maintenance costs and safety hazards. NextNRG’s smart microgrid technology integrates seamlessly with these wireless charging systems, creating intelligent power ecosystems that optimize energy distribution across entire commercial facilities.

    Under the agreement, Mr. Goldfarb and his firm will advise on commercialization strategy, market entry planning and strategic partner engagement, leveraging his deep connections within the logistics, manufacturing, and distribution sectors. As Chairman of the Advisory Board, Mr. Goldfarb will help guide the company’s efforts to bring intelligent, resilient energy solutions to commercial and industrial facilities across new regions and market segments.

    “I’m excited to support a company that’s leading the way in smart, decentralized energy systems for commercial and industrial applications,” said Gary M. Goldfarb. “NextNRG is building the kind of adaptive infrastructure that modern warehouses, distribution centers, and manufacturing facilities demand, and I look forward to contributing to its continued growth and impact in powering the future of industrial operations.”

    The formation of the Advisory Board represents a key step in NextNRG’s corporate development strategy as the company moves toward commercial deployment of its AI-driven platforms and targets high-impact opportunities across infrastructure, industrial and municipal energy sectors.

    About NextNRG, Inc.
    NextNRG Inc. (NextNRG) is Powering What’s Next by implementing artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) into renewable energy, next-generation energy infrastructure, battery storage, wireless electric vehicle (EV) charging and on-demand mobile fuel delivery to create an integrated ecosystem.

    At the core of NextNRG’s strategy is its Next Utility Operating System®, which leverages AI and ML to help make existing utilities’ energy management as efficient as possible, and the deployment of NextNRG smart microgrids, which utilize AI-driven energy management alongside solar power and battery storage to enhance energy efficiency, reduce costs and improve grid resiliency. These microgrids are designed to serve commercial properties, healthcare campuses, universities, parking garages, rural and tribal lands, recreational facilities and government properties, expanding energy accessibility while supporting decarbonization initiatives.

    NextNRG continues to expand its growing fleet of fuel delivery trucks and national footprint, including the acquisition of Yoshi Mobility’s fuel division and Shell Oil’s trucks, further solidifying its position as a leader in the on-demand fueling industry. NextNRG is also integrating sustainable energy solutions into its mobile fueling operations. The company hopes to be an integral part of assisting its fleet customers in their transition to EV, providing fuel delivery while advancing efficient energy adoption. The transition process is expected to include the deployment of NextNRG’s innovative wireless EV charging solutions.

    To find out more visit: www.nextnrg.com

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Any statement describing NextNRG’s goals, expectations, financial or other projections, intentions, or beliefs is a forward-looking statement and should be considered an at-risk statement. Words such as “expect,” “intends,” “will,” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Such statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, those related to NextNRG’s business and macroeconomic and geopolitical events. These and other risks are described in NextNRG’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission from time to time. NextNRG’s forward-looking statements involve assumptions that, if they never materialize or prove correct, could cause its results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Although NextNRG’s forward-looking statements reflect the good faith judgment of its management, these statements are based only on facts and factors currently known by NextNRG. Except as required by law, NextNRG undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements for any reason. As a result, you are cautioned not to rely on these forward-looking statements.

    Investor Relations Contact
    NextNRG, Inc.
    Sharon Cohen
    SCohen@nextnrg.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: SAA’s wings now in full flight

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Following several challenging years, State-owned airline, South African Airways (SAA), is now in a position to contribute economic value.

    This is according to Transport Minister Barbara Creecy, who presented the departmental Budget Vote in Parliament on Wednesday morning.

    SAA was racked by allegations of fraud and corruption during the State capture years. It was put under business rescue and grounded but has recovered to fly domestic, continental and international flights.

    “With unencumbered assets and renewed profitability, SAA is well-positioned to drive economic value through expanded international services, job creation, and increased contributions to tourism and trade,” Creecy said.

    Furthermore, the airline is now contributing to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

    “According to [an Oxford Economics Africa] study, SAA contributed R9.1 billion to South Africa’s GDP in 2023/24, a figure projected to more than triple to R32.6 billion by 2029/2030. Over the same period, the airline’s operations are expected to support 86 700 jobs, up from the current 25 000, demonstrating its growing role as a national employer and economic catalyst.

    “The airline has concluded three out of four outstanding audits and reported a profit of R252 million for the 2022/23 financial year for the first time since 2012. Now operating independently and no longer reliant on government guarantees, SAA is self-funding its operations and fleet growth, while remaining open to a strategic equity partner as part of its long-term restructuring,” the Minister highlighted.

    Strengthening ACSA

    Creecy revealed that the Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) has been allocated some R21.7 billion for infrastructure development.

    “[This is] in order to meet our target of moving 42 million passengers per year and increasing air freight handling through the ACSA network of airports. This will improve facilities for passenger safety and comfort over the medium-term and build a new freight terminal at OR Tambo International Airport.

    “In addition, we are fast tracking projects to ensure reliable availability of jet fuel to all airlines at all our airports, as well as the general upkeep and upgrading of facilities and technologies at each of our airports to improve both security of passengers and cargo, as well as convenience of airport users,” she said.

    On the roads

    Creecy told Parliament that the state of roads in South Africa remains an important issue that the department is concerned about, with the South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL) taking over some 3 099 kilometers of provincial roads over the past year.

    “Over the period of the MTDP [Medium-Term Development Plan] and beyond, SANRAL has reprioritised within the existing maintenance and capital allocated funding so that these roads are serviced through the Route Road Maintenance Programme,” she said.

    Creecy also revealed that the driver’s licence printing machine is now back in operation.

    “The old card machine is currently fixed and we are hard at work to clear out the printing backlog of licence cards.  To ensure we have a backup solution, we have signed a MOU with the Government Printing Works. We expect that within three months, this backup solution will be able to print driver’s licence cards,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Transport committed to driving change in rail, logistics and freight

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    The Department of Transport is ploughing ahead with the execution of reforms to drive the work of turning around passenger, freight and logistics systems.

    This is the word from Minister Barbara Creecy, who presented the department’s Budget Vote in Parliament on Wednesday morning. 

    “Prompt execution of reforms in the logistics sector is essential to address and reduce the risks present in both our global and domestic environments.  

    “Effective implementation of reforms is essential for boosting growth and employment; however, geopolitical tensions may alter foreign direct investment patterns,” Creecy said.

    The Minister explained that the department is guided by clear targets, including:

    • Ensuring that 250 million tons of freight are carried on the Transnet network by 2029.
    • Improving the speed of loading and unloading ships.
    • Ensuring 600 million passenger journeys per annum by 2030.
    • Moving some 42 million passengers and 1.2 million tons of airfreight through the Airports Company of South Africa (ACSA) network of airports by the end of this political term.
    • Reducing road fatalities by 45% by 2029.

    Boosting rail

    Creecy told Parliament that fundamental to the rail reform programme is the “intention to re-establish rail as the backbone of transport for people and goods”.

    “Since we embarked on the journey to restore passenger rail services nationwide, I am proud to share that PRASA [Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa] had, by the end of May 2025, successfully revived 35 out of 40 corridors and sections of service lines.

    “[We] continue to deliver at pace, with PRASA achieving an unaudited figure of 77 million passenger journeys for the last financial year and 116 million passenger journeys for the 2025/26 financial year. 

    “Our competitive pricing model for commuter passengers will ensure that working-class communities take advantage of our offerings,” she said.

    The agency will receive some R66.1 billion over the medium-term.

    “This significant budget is for maintaining, recovering and renewing rail infrastructure, rebuilding the signalling system, rolling out new train sets to priority corridors and increasing rail passenger trips,” she said.

    Freight rail

    The Minister assured South Africans that the department will “do all within our power to rebuild and modernise the capabilities, operational effectiveness and competitiveness of our State-owned freight logistics operator”.

    “The Roadmap for the Freight Logistics System in South Africa clarifies that strategic infrastructure, such as rail lines and ports, will remain in public ownership, as assets belonging to the South African people.

    “We must also enhance the involvement of additional operators as a way of extending freight logistics capabilities of the country and region, beyond what the public sector alone would have been able to accomplish.

    “It is important to point out that as an economy we need freight logistics operators that can compete, but that can also complement each other when the need arises, for the benefit of our country and region,” she said.

    In this regard, Creecy highlighted that “limited state resources to fund infrastructure development” have made private sector investment critical.

    “To guide private sector investment in our five priority rail and port corridors, we have just concluded a Request for Information process. Transnet will issue Requests for Proposals from the end of August 2025 and so begin the formal procurement process.

    “In line with the Private Sector Participation [PSP] envisioned in the White Paper on the National Rail Policy, Cabinet approved a PSP Framework in 2023 to guide private sector involvement across the logistics sector value chain,” she said.

    The Minister emphasised, however, that the department is not waiting on private sector involvement to get the trains rolling.

    “To sustain our economy, we cannot afford to wait until the PSPs reach financial close before launching an ambitious programme to rehabilitate Transnet’s rail network and rolling stock, as well as port infrastructure and equipment.

    “Funding sources for immediate rehabilitation of the five priority rail corridors include the current Transnet budget for rail and rolling stock maintenance and the purchase of port equipment; submissions to National Treasury’s Budget Facility for infrastructure; and private investment in refurbishing or expanding line capacity through existing customer agreements.

    “As a result of the hard work by the Transnet War Room, port volumes were 54.28% higher at the end of the 2024/5 financial year than the previous year; rail tonnage increased by 9 million tons; and containers handled in our ports increased by 48 000 Units,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: IMF Staff Complete 2025 Article IV Mission to Timor-Leste

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    July 2, 2025

    End-of-Mission press releases include statements of IMF staff teams that convey preliminary findings after a visit to a country. The views expressed in this statement are those of the IMF staff and do not necessarily represent the views of the IMF’s Executive Board. Based on the preliminary findings of this mission, staff will prepare a report that, subject to management approval, will be presented to the IMF’s Executive Board for discussion and decision.

    • Timor-Leste’s growth is expected to remain robust at 3.9 percent in 2025, supported by fiscal expansion and strong credit growth. Inflation has fallen sharply but is expected to increase moderately in the remainder of 2025.
    • To support growth and macroeconomic stability, Timor-Leste’s substantial savings in the Petroleum Fund should be spent better and more prudently. This would deliver higher living standards and preserve fiscal sustainability.
    • The implementation of financial and fiscal reforms would accelerate private sector development and make public expenditure more efficient.

    Washington, DC – July 2, 2025: An International Monetary Fund (IMF) team led by Mr. Yan Carrière-Swallow visited Dili during June 19-July 2 to conduct discussions for the 2025 Article IV consultation with Timor-Leste. At the conclusion of the discussions, Mr. Carrière-Swallow issued the following statement:

    “Timor-Leste’s financial buffers and favorable demographics provide an opportunity to develop its economy. Despite impressive progress since independence, the economy remains under-diversified, and fiscal and external imbalances are large. We welcome Timor-Leste’s efforts for greater economic integration in the global and regional economies through World Trade Organization (WTO) membership and prospective ASEAN accession, which will boost growth and is providing a positive impulse to the government’s reform agenda.

    “Growth is expected to remain robust at 3.9 percent in 2025, supported by fiscal expansion and strong credit growth, and to moderate to 3.3 percent in 2026. Inflation, which had fallen sharply last year as global food and energy prices declined but is expected to increase moderately as global food prices rise. Inflation is expected to average 0.9 percent in 2025 and to rise to 1.8 percent in 2026. Risks to the outlook are balanced.

    “The 2026 budget should prioritize high-quality spending on physical and human capital, including health and education, while containing recurrent expenditure. The government is rightly focused on identifying measures to contain the public sector wage bill, which has grown sharply in recent years, and on implementing a Value Added Tax by January 2027.

    “Absent further reforms, deficits are projected to remain large over the medium term, which would lead to a full depletion of the Petroleum Fund by the end of the 2030s. We recommend a 10-year reform agenda of structural and fiscal reforms, allowing the Timorese government to support private sector development while gradually reducing fiscal deficits to preserve debt sustainability. For 2026, our proposed reforms would be consistent with an expenditure envelope of around US$1.85 billion for central government.

    “We welcome continued progress in the government’s financial sector reforms—including an insolvency framework, a secure transactions law, development of corporate accounting standards, and a new law on banking activities—whose implementation would support private sector development. We also recommend accelerating the issuance of land titles and establishing a national digital ID system, which are crucial reforms to boost access to credit, diversify the private sector, and improve the efficiency of public spending.

    “The team had fruitful discussions with Minister of Finance Santina Cardoso, Central Bank Governor Hélder Lopes, other senior officials, the private sector, civil society, and development partners. On behalf of the IMF team, I would like to thank the Timorese authorities for their hospitality and excellent cooperation. The IMF stands ready to continue providing capacity development to assist the government’s operations and reform efforts.”

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Pemba Sherpa

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/07/02/pr25232-imf-staff-complete-2025-article-iv-mission-to-timor-leste

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Graves of three soldiers killed in Normandy identified

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Graves of three soldiers killed in Normandy identified

    Three soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice in 1944 now have named graves at Banneville-la-Campagne War Cemetery in Normandy.

    David Little, the nephew of Trooper Little stands at the graveside of his uncle with his wife, daughter and the military party. MOD Crown Copyright.

    The family of a soldier killed during the Battle of Normandy has visited the newly named grave of their loved one, who has now been identified after an 80-year search for closure.

    Rededication services took place on 26 June at CWGC Banneville-la-Campagne War Cemetery in Normandy for Trooper Francis Dominic Kelly and Trooper Victor Terrence Little, both of 1st Northamptonshire Yeomanry, and Private John Aneurin Protheroe of 2nd Battalion The Monmouthshire Regiment, all of whom died in August 1944. 

    The identifications were made following research by Ministry of Defence’s Joint Casualty and Compassionate Centre (JCCC), known as the ‘MOD’s War Detectives’, the National Army Museum and Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC).

    Trooper Little’s nephew, David Little, attended the moving ceremonies to pay their respects. He said: 

    We were so wonderfully surprised when JCCC contacted us regarding our Uncle Vic as there has always been a sadness that Victor’s remains had never been found. We’ll always be grateful for the work of the JCCC War Detectives in enabling us to attend the rededication service of dear Victor on behalf of his parents and siblings.

    Headshot of Tpr Francis Dominic Kelly (courtesy of the Kelly family).

    Robert Gore, the grandson of Pte Protheroe could sadly not attend the service. He said: 

    My Grandfather was posted missing believed killed in 1944 when my mother was 13 and my aunt 3 years old. My mother has kept his memory very much alive with her stories to me and my 4 siblings.

    When I was about 10 I read a novel where a soldier goes missing but eventually comes home alive. As a 10 year-old, that was always my fantastic hope that my grandfather would reappear. The identification of his grave at Banneville is the culmination of that dream even though he never came back alive and my mother is now also dead. I, my siblings and cousins are all grateful for the efforts of the MoD in this regard and we offer our heartfelt thanks.

    The identifications came after a researcher submitted cases to the CWGC suggesting possible locations for their graves. Following further investigation by CWGC, the National Army Museum and the JCCC, the identities of the 3 soldiers were confirmed. 

    Pte John Aneurin Protheroe (courtesy of the Protheroe family).

    The services were organised by the Ministry of Defence’s JCCC, known as the ‘War Detectives’, with representatives from The Royal Corps of Signals, The Royal Regiment of Artillery and The Royal Welsh in attendance.   

    Rosie Barron, JCCC Caseworker, said:  

    It has been a pleasure to work with the military party to organise these services and to have had the families of Trooper Little and Private Protheroe present. It is important that the memory of these men is honoured, and a strong reminder that the fighting in Normandy did not end on D-Day, but that the Battle of Normandy lasted until the end of August 1944 and was hard won by the Allies.

    All 3 men had previously been commemorated on the Bayeux Memorial to the missing. The CWGC has now replaced their headstones with named markers and will care for them in perpetuity. 

    Fergus Read, Commemorations Case Officer at the CWGC, said: 

    It is an honour to have been involved in the research that led to the formal identification of these men. It is a privilege to play a part in establishing where these casualties of the battles in Normandy are buried. This now allows the Commission to care for their named graves, in perpetuity.

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Graves of four soldiers killed in 1940 identified in France

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Graves of four soldiers killed in 1940 identified in France

    Four British servicemen who died during World War Two in France have been rededicated, bringing closure to families after more than 85 years.

    The rededication service for Gunner Humphries attended by his great nephews. MOD Crown Copyright.

    Last week’s rededication services for Private (Pte) William Falconer, Gunner (Gnr) Joseph Humphries, Signalman (Sig) Edmund Roberts and Major (Maj) Richard White-Cooper were all held at Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) Le Grand-Lucé War Cemetery near Le Mans, France, on 24 June.

    The families of Gnr Humphries, Sig Roberts and Maj White-Cooper attended the rededication service, as well as serving soldiers of The Royal Corps of Signals, The Royal Regiment of Artillery and The Royal Welsh.

    They were some of many British servicemen remaining in France after Operation Dynamo, which saw the mass evacuation of the British Expeditionary Force (BEF) through Dunkirk. As the Germans advanced across France, fighting continued and further evacuations were made from ports along the northern and western French coasts.  

    Maj Richard White-Cooper (courtesy of the White-Cooper family).

    All 4 men had been brought to 9th General Hospital located in the Chateau at Le Grand-Lucé either for treatment or burial. Casualties that died while in the hospital’s care were being buried at the site of Le Grand-Lucé War Cemetery close by. As they were missing, all 4 men had previously been commemorated on the Dunkirk Memorial. 

    The graves were recently identified after John Hawthorn, the husband of Sig Roberts’ granddaughter, submitted a case to CWGC hoping to have Sig Roberts’ final resting place confirmed. After extensive research by CWGC, the National Army Museum and JCCC, the graves of all 4 men were identified. This means that all casualties buried in Le Grand-Lucé War Cemetery have now been identified. 

    John Hawthorn said:

    Words are not adequate to express the emotions I had when I got the email from Rosie Barron telling me that the JCCC were happy to confirm they recognise that Sig Edmund Roberts is buried in the CWGC cemetery at Le Grand Luce, France. Brian, his son and my father-in-law, was only 3 years old when Eddie died on 13 June 1940. He never knew where or how his father died, nor where his body rested. 

    The only commemoration was a name on the Dunkirk Memorial. Having a headstone to mark Eddie’s grave provides the family with closure, comfort, and the opportunity to visit a specific place to pay our respects. We are eternally grateful to the tireless work of CWGC and the JCCC, and especially Rosie for all she has done.

    Headshot of Sig Edmund Roberts (courtesy of the Roberts family).

    The services were organised by the MOD’s Joint Casualty and Compassionate Centre (JCCC), also known as the ‘War Detectives’.  

    JCCC Caseworker, Rosie Barron, said:

    The story of what happened to those members of the BEF still left in France following the Dunkirk evacuations is rarely told. These services highlight the dangers experienced by these men in the struggle to hold the German Army back, and to evacuate from ports further west. Regrettably these men all lost their lives in the confusion of this period. It is a privilege to have met their families and to know that their stories have been concluded.

    CWGC has replaced the headstones over the graves and will care for them in perpetuity, ensuring these brave servicemen are remembered with honour.

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Kenya-UK Strategic Partnership: Joint Statement

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Kenya-UK Strategic Partnership: Joint Statement

    Foreign Secretary David Lammy and Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs H.E Musalia Mudavadi met in London on 2 July 2025 and reflected on the new Kenya-UK Strategic Partnership

    Speaking as they met at London’s Guildhall in the margins of the Africa Debate, Foreign Secretary David Lammy MP and Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs H.E Musalia Mudavadi said:

    As Commonwealth nations, the Republic of Kenya and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland enjoy a deep and vibrant relationship, rooted in our shared history, shared values and set apart by the exceptional talents of our people.

    The new Kenya-UK Strategic Partnership 2025-2030 will provide a comprehensive framework to progress our shared objectives, strengthening the bilateral relationship and delivering growth for both our countries.

    The Partnership will focus on areas of shared interest and strength, including green growth, climate and nature, science and technology, and security and stability. We will be laser-focussed on delivery – creating jobs, enhancing links between our academics, innovators and scientists, and protecting the environment, nature and our people.

    Kenya is a gateway to the East African market with over 300 million people with combined GDP of over USD 400 billion (Kshs.52 billion). UK-Kenya trade is valued at £1.8 billion (Kshs.218 billion). UK companies are among the largest employers in Kenya. This new partnership will deliver £1 billion (Kshs.177 billion) for the UK economy in export finance, engineering jobs and defence manufacturing jobs in Northampton and County Durham.

    The Partnership will see Lloyd’s of London enter the Nairobi insurance market as a gateway to the East Africa Market valued up to £0.5 billion (Kshs.88billion).

    Over the next five years, Kenya and the UK will deliver on high value investment deals of mutual benefit to both economies.

    This includes Nairobi Railway City, a flagship project, which exemplifies what is possible when ambition meets partnership. Railway City is worth up to £150 million (Kshs.26billion) with the potential for 10,000 direct and indirect jobs in Kenya. Procurement for construction of the first phase of the project has now launched with opportunities ranging from commercial real estate and hospitality to tech innovation and student housing.

    Both countries have agreed to explore a new Digital Trading Agreement and to aim to double trade by 2030 in areas like financial services, digital and technology, and defence and security.

    The Kenya and UK governments will further their global leadership on climate and nature through the Partnership, mobilising at least £200 million (Kshs.35billion) for Kenyan climate adaptation, keeping the 1.5 C temperature goal in reach and unlocking green energy transitions and nature-based solutions.

    Under science and technology, the Strategic Partnership will harness the potential of science, research, innovation and technology partnerships, including on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and emerging technologies, to drive inclusive growth, job creation and sustainable development.

    Finally, this new strategic partnership will strengthen our joint response to regional terrorism, illicit finance, cyber attacks and organised crime, keeping our people safe.

    Through the UK-Kenya Security Compact, which we signed today, both countries will prioritise efforts to reduce irregular migration, and support regional stability. The renewed Compact is designed to address both traditional and emerging security threats. Priorities include tackling risks from digital spaces and new technologies, reducing irregular migration, and countering illicit finance. The partnership will continue to build on its strong foundation, ensuring that previous achievements are sustained and that new challenges are met with a coordinated, forward-looking approach.

    This high ambition Strategic Partnership will enable us to go far, together, for a more prosperous and secure future for both our great nations.

    Media enquiries

    Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

    Telephone 020 7008 3100

    Email the FCDO Newsdesk (monitored 24 hours a day) in the first instance, and we will respond as soon as possible.

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • Sensex, Nifty end lower as investors turn cautious over Trump’s tariff deadline

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The stock markets ended lower on Wednesday, as investor sentiment remained cautious due to US President Donald Trump’s firm stand on the upcoming tariff deadline.

    The nervousness led to a risk-off mood among investors, pulling the benchmark indices lower.

    After rising to an intra-day high of 83,935.29, the Sensex lost momentum and closed at 83,409.69, down 287.6 points or 0.34 per cent.

    The Nifty also declined by 88.45 points or 0.35 per cent to end the day at 25,453.4.

    “Mixed global cues, particularly ahead of the impending tariff deadline, are driving investor caution,” Vinod Nair of Geojit Investments Limited said.

    “Market attention is gradually shifting to crucial Q1 earnings, which have high expectations,” he added.

    Nair added that the underlying trends such as robust macroeconomic fundamentals and increased government expenditure continue to support market resilience.

    Among the Sensex stocks, the biggest losers were Bajaj Finserv, L&T, Bajaj Finance, HDFC Bank, and Bharat Electronics.

    On the other hand, Tata Steel, Asian Paints, Ultratech Cement, Trent, Maruti, and Sun Pharma were among the top gainers.

    Broader markets followed a similar trend. The Nifty Midcap100 index ended down by 0.14 per cent, while the Nifty Smallcap100 index slipped 0.41 per cent.

    Sector-wise, Nifty Metal, Consumer Durables, Auto, IT, Pharma, and Healthcare managed to close in the green.

    However, Nifty Realty, Financial Services, Bank, Oil & Gas, and Media dragged the overall sentiment with losses.

    The total market capitalisation of all listed companies on the NSE stood at Rs 5.35 trillion.

    Meanwhile, the India VIX, which measures market volatility, eased slightly by 0.66 per cent to settle at 12.44 points — suggesting some cooling off in investor nervousness despite the day’s losses.

    Gold traded in a narrow range as market awaits key US data releases. Comex Gold moved between $3327 – $3340, while MCX Gold traded between Rs 97,000 – Rs 97,400.

    “The prices expected to remain in the broader range of Rs 96,500 – Rs 97,850 as participants price in potential dollar weakness and upcoming US data, including Non-Farm Payrolls (NFP), ADP non-farm employment, and unemployment figures,” Jateen Trivedi of LKP Securities stated.

    (IANS)

  • Sensex, Nifty end lower as investors turn cautious over Trump’s tariff deadline

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The stock markets ended lower on Wednesday, as investor sentiment remained cautious due to US President Donald Trump’s firm stand on the upcoming tariff deadline.

    The nervousness led to a risk-off mood among investors, pulling the benchmark indices lower.

    After rising to an intra-day high of 83,935.29, the Sensex lost momentum and closed at 83,409.69, down 287.6 points or 0.34 per cent.

    The Nifty also declined by 88.45 points or 0.35 per cent to end the day at 25,453.4.

    “Mixed global cues, particularly ahead of the impending tariff deadline, are driving investor caution,” Vinod Nair of Geojit Investments Limited said.

    “Market attention is gradually shifting to crucial Q1 earnings, which have high expectations,” he added.

    Nair added that the underlying trends such as robust macroeconomic fundamentals and increased government expenditure continue to support market resilience.

    Among the Sensex stocks, the biggest losers were Bajaj Finserv, L&T, Bajaj Finance, HDFC Bank, and Bharat Electronics.

    On the other hand, Tata Steel, Asian Paints, Ultratech Cement, Trent, Maruti, and Sun Pharma were among the top gainers.

    Broader markets followed a similar trend. The Nifty Midcap100 index ended down by 0.14 per cent, while the Nifty Smallcap100 index slipped 0.41 per cent.

    Sector-wise, Nifty Metal, Consumer Durables, Auto, IT, Pharma, and Healthcare managed to close in the green.

    However, Nifty Realty, Financial Services, Bank, Oil & Gas, and Media dragged the overall sentiment with losses.

    The total market capitalisation of all listed companies on the NSE stood at Rs 5.35 trillion.

    Meanwhile, the India VIX, which measures market volatility, eased slightly by 0.66 per cent to settle at 12.44 points — suggesting some cooling off in investor nervousness despite the day’s losses.

    Gold traded in a narrow range as market awaits key US data releases. Comex Gold moved between $3327 – $3340, while MCX Gold traded between Rs 97,000 – Rs 97,400.

    “The prices expected to remain in the broader range of Rs 96,500 – Rs 97,850 as participants price in potential dollar weakness and upcoming US data, including Non-Farm Payrolls (NFP), ADP non-farm employment, and unemployment figures,” Jateen Trivedi of LKP Securities stated.

    (IANS)

  • PM Modi highlights role of technology in empowering women and children

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi has underscored the transformative impact of technology in advancing the welfare of women and children across India. Sharing an article by Union Minister of Women and Child Development, Annapurna Devi, the Prime Minister highlighted the government’s tech-driven initiatives that are reshaping access to essential services and entitlements.

    In a post on X, the Prime Minister’s Office wrote, “Union Minister @Annapurna4BJP Ji writes about how the Government has leveraged technology to transform women and child welfare. Initiatives like Poshan Tracker, a dedicated grievance redressal module and direct benefit transfers are driving real-time, impactful change across the country.”

    The shared article emphasizes that empowerment begins with access—to rights, services, protection, and opportunity. Over the past decade, the Government of India has worked to democratize this access through a robust framework of digital innovation and inclusion.

    Under the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047, the Ministry of Women and Child Development has taken the lead in integrating technology into its flagship programmes. Systems such as the Poshan Tracker provide real-time monitoring of nutrition-related data, while digital grievance redressal platforms and Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) mechanisms ensure timely and transparent delivery of support services.

    According to Minister Annapurna Devi, these efforts mark a shift from aspirational goals to operational realities. By focusing on digital public infrastructure and responsive governance, the Ministry has strengthened outreach and accountability in delivering healthcare, nutrition, education, and legal protections to women and children.

    The initiatives are designed not only to provide safety and support but also to enable women and children to emerge as confident, empowered participants in India’s development journey. The use of real-time data and technology-driven delivery systems, particularly in rural and underserved areas, is ensuring that no one is left behind.

    These developments, the Prime Minister said, reflect the broader vision of building a digitally empowered and inclusive India as the country moves forward into the Amrit Kaal — the period leading up to 2047, marking 100 years of independence.

  • MIL-OSI: YieldMax® ETFs Announces Distributions on SMCY, ULTY, MSTY, WNTR, LFGY, and Others

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO and MILWAUKEE and NEW YORK, July 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — YieldMax® today announced distributions for the YieldMax® Weekly Payers and Group D ETFs listed in the table below.

    ETF
    Ticker    1    		 ETF Name Distribution
    Frequency    		 Distribution
    per Share    		 Distribution
    Rate    2,4    		 30-Day
    SEC Yield3    		 ROC5 Ex-Date &
    Record
    Date    		 Payment
    Date
    CHPY YieldMax® Semiconductor
    Portfolio Option Income ETF    		 Weekly $0.4223 40.43% 0.04% 99.14% 7/3/25 7/7/25
    GPTY YieldMax® AI & Tech
    Portfolio Option Income ETF    		 Weekly $0.3182 35.46% 0.00% 100.00% 7/3/25 7/7/25
    LFGY YieldMax® Crypto Industry
    & Tech Portfolio Option
    Income ETF    		 Weekly $0.4669 60.87% 0.00% 100.00% 7/3/25 7/7/25
    QDTY YieldMax® Nasdaq 100
    0DTE Covered Call ETF    		 Weekly $0.1618 19.16% 0.00% 100.00% 7/3/25 7/7/25
    RDTY YieldMax® R2000 0DTE
    Covered Call ETF    		 Weekly $0.2361 26.39% 1.65% 100.00% 7/3/25 7/7/25
    SDTY YieldMax® S&P 500 0DTE
    Covered Call ETF    		 Weekly $0.1638 18.96% 0.07% 100.00% 7/3/25 7/7/25
    ULTY YieldMax® Ultra Option
    Income Strategy ETF    		 Weekly $0.0952 80.23% 0.00% 98.10% 7/3/25 7/7/25
    YMAG YieldMax® Magnificent 7
    Fund of Option Income ETFs    		 Weekly $0.0554 19.05% 63.17% 77.84% 7/3/25 7/7/25
    YMAX YieldMax® Universe Fund of
    Option Income ETFs    		 Weekly $0.1574 60.04% 82.40% 96.10% 7/3/25 7/7/25
    AIYY YieldMax® AI Option
    Income Strategy ETF    		 Every 4 weeks $0.1600 47.92% 3.46% 93.73% 7/3/25 7/7/25
    AMZY YieldMax® AMZN Option
    Income Strategy ETF    		 Every 4 weeks $0.5900 46.94% 2.86% 94.61% 7/3/25 7/7/25
    APLY YieldMax® AAPL Option
    Income Strategy ETF    		 Every 4 weeks $0.2695 26.93% 3.38% 87.98% 7/3/25 7/7/25
    DISO YieldMax® DIS Option
    Income Strategy ETF    		 Every 4 weeks $0.4163 36.54% 2.97% 93.52% 7/3/25 7/7/25
    MSTY YieldMax® MSTR Option
    Income Strategy ETF    		 Every 4 weeks $1.2382 77.14% 1.80% 96.86% 7/3/25 7/7/25
    SMCY YieldMax® SMCI Option
    Income Strategy ETF    		 Every 4 weeks $1.6102 101.78% 3.09% 97.25% 7/3/25 7/7/25
    WNTR YieldMax® Short MSTR
    Option Income Strategy ETF    		 Every 4 weeks $1.8550 65.38% 3.19% 96.58% 7/3/25 7/7/25
    XYZY YieldMax® XYZ Option
    Income Strategy ETF    		 Every 4 weeks $0.4398 56.14% 2.57% 97.95% 7/3/25 7/7/25
    YQQQ YieldMax® Short N100
    Option Income Strategy ETF    		 Every 4 weeks $0.2338 21.22% 3.41% 84.56% 7/3/25 7/7/25
    Weekly Payers & Group A ETFs scheduled for next week: CHPY GPTY LFGY QDTY RDTY SDTY UTLY YMAG YMAX BRKC CRSH FEAT FIVY GOOY OARK SNOY TSLY TSMY XOMO YBIT

    Standardized Performance and Fund details can be obtained by clicking the ETF Ticker in the table above or by visiting us at www.yieldmaxetfs.com

    Performance data quoted represents past performance and is no guarantee of future results. Investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when sold or redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost and current performance may be lower or higher than the performance quoted above. Performance current to the most recent month-end can be obtained by calling (866) 864-3968.

    Note: DIPS, FIAT, CRSH, YQQQ and WNTR are hereinafter referred to as the “Short ETFs.”

    Distributions are not guaranteed. The Distribution Rate and 30-Day SEC Yield are not indicative of future distributions, if any, on the ETFs. In particular, future distributions on any ETF may differ significantly from its Distribution Rate or 30-Day SEC Yield. You are not guaranteed a distribution under the ETFs. Distributions for the ETFs (if any) are variable and may vary significantly from period to period and may be zero. Accordingly, the Distribution Rate and 30-Day SEC Yield will change over time, and such change may be significant.

    Investors in the Funds will not have rights to receive dividends or other distributions with respect to the underlying reference asset(s).

    1All YieldMax® ETFs shown in the table above (except YMAX, YMAG, FEAT, FIVY and ULTY) have a gross expense ratio of 0.99%. YMAX, FEAT have a Management Fee of 0.29% and Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses of 0.99% for a gross expense ratio of 1.28%. YMAG has a management fee of 0.29% and Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses of 0.83% for a gross expense ratio of 1.12%. FIVY has a Management Fee of 0.29% and Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses of 0.59% for a gross expense ratio of 0.88%. “Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses” are indirect fees and expenses that the Fund incurs from investing in the shares of other investment companies, namely other YieldMax® ETFs. ULTY has a gross expense ratio of 1.40%, and a net expense ratio after the fee waiver of 1.30%. The Advisor has agreed to a fee waiver of 0.10% through at least February 28, 2026.

    2The Distribution Rate shown is as of close on July 1, 2025. The Distribution Rate is the annual distribution rate an investor would receive if the most recent distribution, which includes option income, remained the same going forward. The Distribution Rate is calculated by annualizing an ETF’s Distribution per Share and dividing such annualized amount by the ETF’s most recent NAV. The Distribution Rate represents a single distribution from the ETF and does not represent its total return. Distributions may also include a combination of ordinary dividends, capital gain, and return of investor capital, which may decrease an ETF’s NAV and trading price over time. As a result, an investor may suffer significant losses to their investment. These Distribution Rates may be caused by unusually favorable market conditions and may not be sustainable. Such conditions may not continue to exist and there should be no expectation that this performance may be repeated in the future.

    3The 30-Day SEC Yield represents net investment income, which excludes option income, earned by such ETF over the 30-Day period ended June 30, 2025, expressed as an annual percentage rate based on such ETF’s share price at the end of the 30-Day period.

    4Each ETF’s strategy (except those of the Short ETFs) will cap potential gains if its reference asset’s shares increase in value, yet subjects an investor to all potential losses if the reference asset’s shares decrease in value. Such potential losses may not be offset by income received by the ETF. Each Short ETF’s strategy will cap potential gains if its reference asset decreases in value, yet subjects an investor to all potential losses if the reference asset increases in value. Such potential losses may not be offset by income received by the ETF.

    5ROC refers to Return of Capital. The ROC percentage indicates how much the distribution reflects an investor’s initial investment. The figures shown for each Fund in the table above are estimates and may later be determined to be taxable net investment income, short-term gains, long-term gains (to the extent permitted by law), or return of capital. Actual amounts and sources for tax reporting will depend upon the Fund’s investment activities during the remainder of the fiscal year and may be subject to changes based on tax regulations. Your broker will send you a Form 1099-DIV for the calendar year to tell you how to report these distributions for federal income tax purposes.

    Each Fund has a limited operating history and while each Fund’s objective is to provide current income, there is no guarantee the Fund will make a distribution. Distributions are likely to vary greatly in amount.

    Important Information

    This material must be preceded or accompanied by the prospectus. For all prospectuses, click here.

    Tidal Financial Group is the adviser for all YieldMax® ETFs.

    THE FUND, TRUST, AND ADVISER ARE NOT AFFILIATED WITH ANY UNDERLYING REFERENCE ASSET.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable to all YieldMax ETFs referenced above, except the Short ETFs)

    YMAX, YMAG, FEAT and FIVY generally invest in other YieldMax® ETFs. As such, these funds are subject to the risks listed in this section, which apply to all the YieldMax® ETFs they may hold from time to time.

    Investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible.

    Referenced Index Risk. The Fund invests in options contracts that are based on the value of the Index (or the Index ETFs). This subjects the Fund to certain of the same risks as if it owned shares of companies that comprised the Index or an ETF that tracks the Index, even though it does not.

    Indirect Investment Risk. The Index is not affiliated with the Trust, the Fund, the Adviser, or their respective affiliates and is not involved with this offering in any way. Investors in the Fund will not have the right to receive dividends or other distributions or any other rights with respect to the companies that comprise the Index but will be subject to declines in the performance of the Index.

    Russell 2000 Index Risks. The Index, which consists of small-cap U.S. companies, is particularly susceptible to economic changes, as these firms often have less financial resilience than larger companies. Market volatility can disproportionately affect these smaller businesses, leading to significant price swings. Additionally, these companies are often more exposed to specific industry risks and have less diverse revenue streams. They can also be more vulnerable to changes in domestic regulatory or policy environments.

    Call Writing Strategy Risk. The path dependency (i.e., the continued use) of the Fund’s call writing strategy will impact the extent that the Fund participates in the positive price returns of the underlying reference asset and, in turn, the Fund’s returns, both during the term of the sold call options and over longer periods.

    Counterparty Risk. The Fund is subject to counterparty risk by virtue of its investments in options contracts. Transactions in some types of derivatives, including options, are required to be centrally cleared (“cleared derivatives”). In a transaction involving cleared derivatives, the Fund’s counterparty is a clearing house rather than a bank or broker. Since the Fund is not a member of clearing houses and only members of a clearing house (“clearing members”) can participate directly in the clearing house, the Fund will hold cleared derivatives through accounts at clearing members.

    Derivatives Risk. Derivatives are financial instruments that derive value from the underlying reference asset or assets, such as stocks, bonds, or funds (including ETFs), interest rates or indexes. The Fund’s investments in derivatives may pose risks in addition to, and greater than, those associated with directly investing in securities or other ordinary investments, including risk related to the market, imperfect correlation with underlying investments or the Fund’s other portfolio holdings, higher price volatility, lack of availability, counterparty risk, liquidity, valuation and legal restrictions.

    Options Contracts. The use of options contracts involves investment strategies and risks different from those associated with ordinary portfolio securities transactions. The prices of options are volatile and are influenced by, among other things, actual and anticipated changes in the value of the underlying instrument, including the anticipated volatility, which are affected by fiscal and monetary policies and by national and international political, changes in the actual or implied volatility or the reference asset, the time remaining until the expiration of the option contract and economic events.

    Distribution Risk. As part of the Fund’s investment objective, the Fund seeks to provide current income. There is no assurance that the Fund will make a distribution in any given period. If the Fund does make distributions, the amounts of such distributions will likely vary greatly from one distribution to the next.

    High Portfolio Turnover Risk. The Fund may actively and frequently trade all or a significant portion of the Fund’s holdings. A high portfolio turnover rate increases transaction costs, which may increase the Fund’s expenses.

    Liquidity Risk. Some securities held by the Fund, including options contracts, may be difficult to sell or be illiquid, particularly during times of market turmoil.

    Non-Diversification Risk. Because the Fund is “non-diversified,” it may invest a greater percentage of its assets in the securities of a single issuer or a smaller number of issuers than if it was a diversified fund.

    New Fund Risk. The Fund is a recently organized management investment company with no operating history. As a result, prospective investors do not have a track record or history on which to base their investment decisions.

    Price Participation Risk. The Fund employs an investment strategy that includes the sale of call option contracts, which limits the degree to which the Fund will participate in increases in value experienced by the underlying reference asset over the Call Period.

    Single Issuer Risk. Issuer-specific attributes may cause an investment in the Fund to be more volatile than a traditional pooled investment which diversifies risk or the market generally. The value of the Fund, which focuses on an individual security (ARKK, TSLA, AAPL, NVDA, AMZN, META, GOOGL, NFLX, COIN, MSFT, DIS, XOM, JPM, AMD, PYPL, SQ, MRNA, AI, MSTR, Bitcoin ETP, GDX®, SNOW, ABNB, BABA, TSM, SMCI, PLTR, MARA, CVNA, BRK.B), may be more volatile than a traditional pooled investment or the market as a whole and may perform differently from the value of a traditional pooled investment or the market as a whole.

    Inflation Risk. Inflation risk is the risk that the value of assets or income from investments will be less in the future as inflation decreases the value of money. As inflation increases, the present value of the Fund’s assets and distributions, if any, may decline.

    Indirect Investment Risk. The Index is not affiliated with the Trust, the Fund, the Adviser, or their respective affiliates and is not involved with this offering in any way.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to GPTY)

    Artificial Intelligence Risk. Issuers engaged in artificial intelligence typically have high research and capital expenditures and, as a result, their profitability can vary widely, if they are profitable at all. The space in which they are engaged is highly competitive and issuers’ products and services may become obsolete very quickly. These companies are heavily dependent on intellectual property rights and may be adversely affected by loss or impairment of those rights. The issuers are also subject to legal, regulatory, and political changes that may have a large impact on their profitability. A failure in an issuer’s product or even questions about the safety of the product could be devastating to the issuer, especially if it is the marquee product of the issuer. It can be difficult to accurately capture what qualifies as an artificial intelligence company.

    Technology Sector Risk. The Fund will invest substantially in companies in the information technology sector, and therefore the performance of the Fund could be negatively impacted by events affecting this sector. Market or economic factors impacting technology companies and companies that rely heavily on technological advances could have a significant effect on the value of the Fund’s investments. The value of stocks of information technology companies and companies that rely heavily on technology is particularly vulnerable to rapid changes in technology product cycles, rapid product obsolescence, government regulation and competition, both domestically and internationally, including competition from foreign competitors with lower production costs. Stocks of information technology companies and companies that rely heavily on technology, especially those of smaller, less-seasoned companies, tend to be more volatile than the overall market. Information technology companies are heavily dependent on patent and intellectual property rights, the loss or impairment of which may adversely affect profitability.

    Risk Disclosure (applicable only to MARO)

    Digital Assets Risk: The Fund does not invest directly in Bitcoin or any other digital assets. The Fund does not invest directly in derivatives that track the performance of Bitcoin or any other digital assets. The Fund does not invest in or seek direct exposure to the current “spot” or cash price of Bitcoin. Investors seeking direct exposure to the price of Bitcoin should consider an investment other than the Fund. Digital assets like Bitcoin, designed as mediums of exchange, are still an emerging asset class. They operate independently of any central authority or government backing and are subject to regulatory changes and extreme price volatility.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to BABO and TSMY)

    Currency Risk: Indirect exposure to foreign currencies subjects the Fund to the risk that currencies will decline in value relative to the U.S. dollar. Currency rates in foreign countries may fluctuate significantly over short periods of time for a number of reasons, including changes in interest rates and the imposition of currency controls or other political developments in the U.S. or abroad.

    Depositary Receipts Risk: The securities underlying BABO and TSMY are American Depositary Receipts (“ADRs”). Investment in ADRs may be less liquid than the underlying shares in their primary trading market.

    Foreign Market and Trading Risk: The trading markets for many foreign securities are not as active as U.S. markets and may have less governmental regulation and oversight.

    Foreign Securities Risk: Investments in securities of non-U.S. issuers involve certain risks that may not be present with investments in securities of U.S. issuers, such as risk of loss due to foreign currency fluctuations or to political or economic instability, as well as varying regulatory requirements applicable to investments in non-U.S. issuers. There may be less information publicly available about a non-U.S. issuer than a U.S. issuer. Non-U.S. issuers may also be subject to different regulatory, accounting, auditing, financial reporting, and investor protection standards than U.S. issuers.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to GDXY)

    Risk of Investing in Foreign Securities. The Fund is exposed indirectly to the securities of foreign issuers selected by GDX®’s investment adviser, which subjects the Fund to the risks associated with such companies. Investments in the securities of foreign issuers involve risks beyond those associated with investments in U.S. securities.

    Risk of Investing in Gold and Silver Mining Companies. The Fund is exposed indirectly to gold and silver mining companies selected by GDX®’s investment adviser, which subjects the Fund to the risks associated with such companies.

    The Fund invests in options contracts based on the value of the VanEck Gold Miners ETF (GDX®), which subjects the Fund to some of the same risks as if it owned GDX®, as well as the risks associated with Canadian, Australian and Emerging Market Issuers, and Small-and Medium-Capitalization companies.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to YBIT)

    YBIT does not invest directly in Bitcoin or any other digital assets. YBIT does not invest directly in derivatives that track the performance of Bitcoin or any other digital assets. YBIT does not invest in or seek direct exposure to the current “spot” or cash price of Bitcoin. Investors seeking direct exposure to the price of Bitcoin should consider an investment other than YBIT.

    Bitcoin Investment Risk: The Fund’s indirect investment in Bitcoin, through holdings in one or more Underlying ETPs, exposes it to the unique risks of this emerging innovation. Bitcoin’s price is highly volatile, and its market is influenced by the changing Bitcoin network, fluctuating acceptance levels, and unpredictable usage trends.

    Digital Assets Risk: Digital assets like Bitcoin, designed as mediums of exchange, are still an emerging asset class. They operate independently of any central authority or government backing and are subject to regulatory changes and extreme price volatility. Potentially No 1940 Act Protections. As of the date of this Prospectus, there is only a single eligible Underlying ETP, and it is an investment company subject to the 1940 Act.

    Bitcoin ETP Risk: The Fund invests in options contracts that are based on the value of the Bitcoin ETP. This subjects the Fund to certain of the same risks as if it owned shares of the Bitcoin ETP, even though it does not. Bitcoin ETPs are subject, but not limited, to significant risk and heightened volatility. An investor in a Bitcoin ETP may lose their entire investment. Bitcoin ETPs are not suitable for all investors. In addition, not all Bitcoin ETPs are registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940. Those Bitcoin ETPs that are not registered under such statute are therefore not subject to the same regulations as exchange traded products that are so registered.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to the Short ETFs)

    Investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible.

    Price Appreciation Risk. As part of the Fund’s synthetic covered put strategy, the Fund purchases and sells call and put option contracts that are based on the value of the underlying reference asset. This strategy subjects the Fund to certain of the same risks as if it shorted the underlying reference asset, even though it does not. By virtue of the Fund’s indirect inverse exposure to changes in the value of the underlying reference asset, the Fund is subject to the risk that the value of the underlying reference asset increases. If the value of the underlying reference asset increases, the Fund will likely lose value and, as a result, the Fund may suffer significant losses.

    Put Writing Strategy Risk. The path dependency (i.e., the continued use) of the Fund’s put writing (selling) strategy will impact the extent that the Fund participates in decreases in the value of the underlying reference asset and, in turn, the Fund’s returns, both during the term of the sold put options and over longer periods.

    Purchased OTM Call Options Risk. The Fund’s strategy is subject to potential losses if the underlying reference asset increases in value, which may not be offset by the purchase of out-of-the-money (OTM) call options. The Fund purchases OTM calls to seek to manage (cap) the Fund’s potential losses from the Fund’s short exposure to the underlying reference asset if it appreciates significantly in value. However, the OTM call options will cap the Fund’s losses only to the extent that the value of the underlying reference asset increases to a level that is at or above the strike level of the purchased OTM call options. Any increase in the value of the underlying reference asset to a level that is below the strike level of the purchased OTM call options will result in a corresponding loss for the Fund. For example, if the OTM call options have a strike level that is approximately 100% above the then-current value of the underlying reference asset at the time of the call option purchase, and the value of the underlying reference asset increases by at least 100% during the term of the purchased OTM call options, the Fund will lose all its value. Since the Fund bears the costs of purchasing the OTM calls, such costs will decrease the Fund’s value and/or any income otherwise generated by the Fund’s investment strategy.

    Counterparty Risk. The Fund is subject to counterparty risk by virtue of its investments in options contracts. Transactions in some types of derivatives, including options, are required to be centrally cleared (“cleared derivatives”). In a transaction involving cleared derivatives, the Fund’s counterparty is a clearing house rather than a bank or broker. Since the Fund is not a member of clearing houses and only members of a clearing house (“clearing members”) can participate directly in the clearing house, the Fund will hold cleared derivatives through accounts at clearing members.

    Derivatives Risk. Derivatives are financial instruments that derive value from the underlying reference asset or assets, such as stocks, bonds, or funds (including ETFs), interest rates or indexes. The Fund’s investments in derivatives may pose risks in addition to, and greater than, those associated with directly investing in securities or other ordinary investments, including risk related to the market, imperfect correlation with underlying investments or the Fund’s other portfolio holdings, higher price volatility, lack of availability, counterparty risk, liquidity, valuation and legal restrictions.

    Options Contracts. The use of options contracts involves investment strategies and risks different from those associated with ordinary portfolio securities transactions. The prices of options are volatile and are influenced by, among other things, actual and anticipated changes in the value of the underlying reference asset, including the anticipated volatility, which are affected by fiscal and monetary policies and by national and international political, changes in the actual or implied volatility or the reference asset, the time remaining until the expiration of the option contract and economic events.

    Distribution Risk. As part of the Fund’s investment objective, the Fund seeks to provide current income. There is no assurance that the Fund will make a distribution in any given period. If the Fund does make distributions, the amounts of such distributions will likely vary greatly from one distribution to the next.

    High Portfolio Turnover Risk. The Fund may actively and frequently trade all or a significant portion of the Fund’s holdings.

    Liquidity Risk. Some securities held by the Fund, including options contracts, may be difficult to sell or be illiquid, particularly during times of market turmoil.

    Non-Diversification Risk. Because the Fund is “non-diversified,” it may invest a greater percentage of its assets in the securities of a single issuer or a smaller number of issuers than if it was a diversified fund.

    New Fund Risk. The Fund is a recently organized management investment company with no operating history. As a result, prospective investors do not have a track record or history on which to base their investment decisions.

    Price Participation Risk. The Fund employs an investment strategy that includes the sale of put option contracts, which limits the degree to which the Fund will participate in decreases in value experienced by the underlying reference asset over the Put Period.

    Single Issuer Risk. Issuer-specific attributes may cause an investment in the Fund to be more volatile than a traditional pooled investment which diversifies risk or the market generally. The value of the Fund, for any Fund that focuses on an individual security (e.g., TSLA, COIN, NVDA, MSTR), may be more volatile than a traditional pooled investment or the market as a whole and may perform differently from the value of a traditional pooled investment or the market as a whole. Inflation Risk. Inflation risk is the risk that the value of assets or income from investments will be less in the future as inflation decreases the value of money. As inflation increases, the present value of the Fund’s assets and distributions, if any, may decline.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to CHPY)

    Semiconductor Industry Risk. Semiconductor companies may face intense competition, both domestically and internationally, and such competition may have an adverse effect on their profit margins. Semiconductor companies may have limited product lines, markets, financial resources or personnel. Semiconductor companies’ supply chain and operations are dependent on the availability of materials that meet exacting standards and the use of third parties to provide components and services.

    The products of semiconductor companies may face obsolescence due to rapid technological developments and frequent new product introduction, unpredictable changes in growth rates and competition for the services of qualified personnel. Capital equipment expenditures could be substantial, and equipment generally suffers from rapid obsolescence. Companies in the semiconductor industry are heavily dependent on patent and intellectual property rights. The loss or impairment of these rights would adversely affect the profitability of these companies.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to YQQQ)

    Index Overview. The Nasdaq 100 Index is a benchmark index that includes 100 of the largest non-financial companies listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market, based on market capitalization.

    Index Level Appreciation Risk. As part of the Fund’s synthetic covered put strategy, the Fund purchases and sells call and put option contracts that are based on the Index level. This strategy subjects the Fund to certain of the same risks as if it shorted the Index, even though it does not. By virtue of the Fund’s indirect inverse exposure to changes in the Index level, the Fund is subject to the risk that the Index level increases. If the Index level increases, the Fund will likely lose value and, as a result, the Fund may suffer significant losses. The Fund may also be subject to the following risks: innovation and technological advancement; strong market presence of Index constituent companies; adaptability to global market trends; and resilience and recovery potential.

    Index Level Participation Risk. The Fund employs an investment strategy that includes the sale of put option contracts, which limits the degree to which the Fund will benefit from decreases in the Index level experienced over the Put Period. This means that if the Index level experiences a decrease in value below the strike level of the sold put options during a Put Period, the Fund will likely not experience that increase to the same extent and any Fund gains may significantly differ from the level of the Index losses over the Put Period. Additionally, because the Fund is limited in the degree to which it will participate in decreases in value experienced by the Index level over each Put Period, but has significant negative exposure to any increases in value experienced by the Index level over the Put Period, the NAV of the Fund may decrease over any given period. The Fund’s NAV is dependent on the value of each options portfolio, which is based principally upon the inverse of the performance of the Index level. The Fund’s ability to benefit from the Index level decreases will depend on prevailing market conditions, especially market volatility, at the time the Fund enters into the sold put option contracts and will vary from Put Period to Put Period. The value of the options contracts is affected by changes in the value and dividend rates of component companies that comprise the Index, changes in interest rates, changes in the actual or perceived volatility of the Index and the remaining time to the options’ expiration, as well as trading conditions in the options market. As the Index level changes and time moves towards the expiration of each Put Period, the value of the options contracts, and therefore the Fund’s NAV, will change. However, it is not expected for the Fund’s NAV to directly inversely correlate on a day-to-day basis with the returns of the Index level. The amount of time remaining until the options contract’s expiration date affects the impact that the value of the options contracts has on the Fund’s NAV, which may not be in full effect until the expiration date of the Fund’s options contracts. Therefore, while changes in the Index level will result in changes to the Fund’s NAV, the Fund generally anticipates that the rate of change in the Fund’s NAV will be different than the inverse of the changes experienced by the Index level.

    YieldMax® ETFs are distributed by Foreside Fund Services, LLC. Foreside is not affiliated with Tidal Financial Group, or YieldMax® ETFs.

    © 2025 YieldMax® ETFs

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Amplify ETFs Declares June Income Distributions for Bitcoin Option Income ETFs

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO, July 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Amplify ETFs announces June income distribution for its Bitcoin* option income ETFs, BITY and BAGY.

    ETF Name Ticker Distribution
    Rate    1    		 Amount per
    Share    		 Distribution
    Frequency    		 30 Day
    SEC Yield1
    Amplify Bitcoin Max Income Covered Call ETF BAGY 30.66%   $1.41350 Monthly 3.27%  
    Amplify Bitcoin 2% Monthly Option Income ETF BITY 24.40%   $1.13000 Monthly 2.47%  

    Distributions as of 6/30/25 included an estimated return of capital: BAGY 93%, BITY 93%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

    Learn more:

    About Amplify ETFs
    Amplify ETFs, sponsored by Amplify Investments, has over $12 billion in assets across its suite of ETFs (as of 6/30/2025). Amplify ETFs delivers expanded investment opportunities for investors seeking growth, income, and risk-managed strategies across a range of actively managed and index-based ETFs. To learn more visit AmplifyETFs.com.

    Sales Contact:
    Amplify ETFs
    855-267-3837
    info@amplifyetfs.com    		 Media Contact:
    Gregory FCA for Amplify ETFs
    Kerry Davis
    610-228-2098
    amplifyetfs@gregoryfca.com
       

    1Distribution Rate is the normalized current distribution (annualized) over NAV per share. 30-Day SEC Yield is a standard yield calculation developed by the Securities and Exchange Commission that allows for fairer comparisons among bond funds. It is based on the most recent month end. This figure reflects the income earned from dividends – excluding option income – during the period after deducting the Fund’s expenses for the period

    *The Funds do not invest directly in bitcoin. Bitcoin ETPs are exchange-traded investment products not registered under the 1940 Act that seek to generally match the performance of the price of Bitcoin, and trade intra-day on a national securities exchange.

    BITY, formerly Amplify Bitcoin 24% Premium Income ETF.
    There is no guarantee that BITY will achieve the Target Option Premium in any given year. If the NAV of the Fund remains level or decreases during any one-year period, the annualized premium generated by the Fund may be significantly less than the Target Option Premium for that time period.

    Carefully consider the Fund’s investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses before investing. This and other information can be found in the Fund’s statutory and summary prospectuses, which may be obtained at AmplifyETFs.com. Read the prospectus carefully before investing.

    This information is not intended to provide and should not be relied upon for accounting, legal or tax advice, or investment recommendations. To receive a distribution, you must be a registered shareholder of the fund on the record date. Distributions are paid to shareholders on the payment date. There is no guarantee that distributions will be made in the future. Your own trading will also generate tax consequences and transaction expenses. Past distributions are not indicative of future distributions. Please consult your tax professional or financial adviser for more information regarding your tax situation.

    Investing involves risk and possible loss of principal. There is no guarantee the investment strategy will be successful. The Funds are considered to be non-diversified. The Funds are actively managed and their performance reflects the investment decisions the Adviser makes for the Funds.

    The Funds face risks by investing in Bitcoin through the Bitcoin ETP and Bitcoin ETP Options, as bitcoin is a new and highly speculative investment. The market for bitcoin is volatile and subject to rapid changes, regulatory actions, and numerous challenges to widespread adoption. Issues such as slow transaction processing, variable fees, and price volatility further increase these risks.

    There is a lack of consensus regarding the regulation of digital assets, including bitcoin, and their markets. Trading in shares of a Bitcoin ETP on U.S. securities exchanges may be halted due to market conditions or for reasons that, in the view of an exchange, make trading in shares of the Bitcoin ETP inadvisable.

    Option contract prices are volatile and affected by changes in the underlying asset’s value, interest or currency rates, and expected volatility, all of which are influenced by political, fiscal, and monetary policies. The Funds may use FLEX Options, which can be less liquid than standardized options. This may make it difficult to close out FLEX Options positions at desired times and prices.

    With covered call risk, the Funds might miss out on profits if the security’s value rises above the option’s premium and strike price while still facing potential losses if the value declines. With covered put risk, significant stock price increases can lead to substantial losses on your short position. The premium provides some income but may not fully offset the loss if the stock rallies unexpectedly.

    The Funds currently expect to make distributions on a monthly basis, a portion of which may be considered return of capital.

    Amplify Investments LLC serves as the investment adviser to the Funds. Kelly Strategic Management, LLC and Penserra Capital Management LLC each serve as investment sub-advisers to the Funds.

    Amplify ETFs are distributed by Foreside Fund Services, LLC.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Pan Gongsheng: A few observations on global financial governance

    Source: Bank for International Settlements

    Distinguished Party Secretary Chen Jining,

    Former PBOC Governor Zhou Xiaochuan,

    Mayor Gong Zheng, Deputy Director Wang Jiang, Minister Li Yunze, Chairman Wu Qing, Vice Minister Hu Haifeng, Administrator Zhu Hexin, and dear guests,

    Good morning!

    I would like to thank Shanghai Municipal Committee of the CPC and Shanghai Municipal People’s Government, especially Party Secretary Chen Jining and Mayor Gong Zheng. Thank you for your care and support for the financial work and the People’s Bank of China (PBOC). It is a great honor for me to be the co-chairperson of this year’s Lujiazui Forum. After years of efforts, the Forum has grown into a communication platform with significant global influence and wide market reach. On behalf of the PBOC and other hosts, I would like to express warm welcome and sincere gratitude to everyone.

    At last year’s Forum, I discussed China’s monetary policy stance and the evolution of monetary policy framework down the road. Over the past year, the PBOC has adopted an accommodative monetary policy stance and rolled out multiple monetary policy measures. The aggregate and structural policy tools have effectively supported the sustained economic recovery and financial market stability. At the same time, we have improved the monetary policy framework, optimized the intermediate monetary policy variables, cultivated policy rates, enhanced monetary policy transmission efficiency, diversified monetary policy toolkit, and strengthened policy communication and expectation guidance. The transformation of monetary policy framework is a gradual and ongoing process, and we will continue to conduct assessments and make refinements in the future.

    Now, I would like to share with you my observations on global financial governance. This is a very broad topic. So I will focus on four issues: international monetary system, cross-border payment system, global financial stability system, and the governance of international financial organizations.

    I. On the International Monetary System

    Throughout history, the international monetary system has never stopped evolving. The replacement of global dominant currencies reflects the profound change in the international landscape and the iteration of national competitiveness. In the 17th century, the Dutch Guilder became the early international currency. From the late 18th century to the first half of the 20th century, the British pound was the dominant currency globally. After the World War II, the U.S. dollar established its dominance and has retained its status up till now.

    As a global public good, the international currency, if dominated by the sovereign currency of a single country, has inherent instabilities. First, a sovereign currency issuer tends to prioritize its own interests over the supply of global public goods when its own interests conflict with the attribute as a global public good. Second, fiscal and financial regulatory issues of a sovereign currency issuer and the accumulation of structural problems in its domestic economy may generate financial risks with spillover effects, or even escalate into a global financial crisis. Third, in times of geopolitical tensions, national security concerns, or even wars, the global dominant currency tends to be instrumentalized or weaponized.

    The above problems have driven growing global discussions on the reform of international monetary system. Over the past decade, the driving forces behind the shifts in the international monetary system stemmed primarily from the economic and financial dimensions in the wake of the global financial crisis, and hence the discussions were centered on economic and financial developments. The discussions this time around, however, are mainly driven by geopolitical issues. Broadly speaking, there are two lines of argument.

    The first one is on how to weaken the excessive reliance on a single sovereign currency and its negative impacts, foster healthy competition among a few strong sovereign currencies, and put in place incentive-restraint mechanisms. A multipolar international monetary system can prompt sovereign currency issuers to strengthen policy constraints, enhance the resilience of international monetary system, and more effectively safeguard global economic and financial stability. Madam Lagarde, President of the European Central Bank (ECB), noted in her recent speech that the global order based on multilateral cooperation is fracturing, with uncertainty about the dominant role of the U.S. dollar, and the changing landscape could open the door for the euro to play a greater international role.

    Over the past two decades, the evolution of international monetary system had two key features. The first was the creation of the euro in 1999. The euro now accounts for around 20 percent of global foreign exchange reserves, second only to the U.S. dollar. The second was the steady rise of the RMB’s international status after the global financial crisis in 2008. The RMB has already become the world’s second largest trade finance currency. Calculated on a comprehensive basis, the RMB has become the world’s third largest payment currency. Besides, the weight of the RMB in the International Monetary Fund’s Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) currency basket ranks third.

    Going forward, the international monetary system is likely to continue its evolution towards a system where a few sovereign currencies coexist and compete with checks and balances. Be it a single sovereign currency or a small group of sovereign currencies serving as the global dominant currency, the sovereign currency issuers should assume their responsibilities by strengthening domestic fiscal discipline and financial regulation, and advancing the structural reform of the economy.

    The second line of argument is on a super-sovereign currency serving as the global dominant currency, and discussions have been largely focused on SDRs. Dr. Zhou Xiaochuan, former governor of the PBOC, once raised this issue in 2009. Theoretically, SDRs can effectively overcome the inherent problems of a single sovereign currency as the global dominant currency. It offers greater stability in currency value and is better positioned to function as a global public good, as it can help manage global liquidity and facilitate crisis response. The SDR has the attributes of a super-sovereign currency.

    Having said that, we still lack political consensus and will globally, if the SDR were to become a global dominant currency. Moreover, insufficient market scale, depth and liquidity have limited the role of SDRs. Turning SDRs into a global dominant currency requires member countries to build political consensus, which is not easy, given the current international landscape.  Optimizing operational arrangements is also needed to gradually expand the usage of SDRs. In terms of allocation and issuance mechanisms, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) issues SDRs mainly as part of crisis response and mostly in the form of a large one-off allocation. In the future, the IMF can issue SDRs regularly and expand the size of issuance. Regarding the scope of use, we need to encourage private sector and market entities to use SDRs in international trade, investment and financing, and to issue SDR-denominated bonds. We need to enhance the role of SDRs as a reserve asset, and establish the SDR settlement mechanism adaptable to large-scale usage.

    II. On the Cross-Border Payment System

    The cross-border payment system serves as the artery of global funds flow. It is a keystone for facilitating international trade, investment and financing, and for safeguarding financial stability. It is also a vital pillar of the international monetary system. The evolution of the international monetary system towards coexistence of a few sovereign currencies and booming digital technologies will promote the diversification of the cross-border payment system, which will, in turn, accelerate the shifts in the international monetary system.

    In recent years, problems faced by the traditional cross-border payment system have loomed large. First, there is a generational differences between traditional cross-border payments and emerging digital technologies. Problems of low efficiency, high costs, and poor penetration demand urgent resolution. Second, cross-border payments require coordination among different legal and regulatory frameworks, as well as among different stakeholders. Therefore, we need to enhance international cooperation. G20 and other international organizations attach great importance to promoting cross-border payments, and formulated a roadmap to enhance cross-border payments. Third, the geopolitical rivalry has escalated. The traditional cross-border payment infrastructures can be easily politicized, weaponized, and used as unilateral sanction instruments, thus undermining the international economic and financial order.

    Against this background, there have been growing calls for improving the cross-border payment system. New payment infrastructures and settlement methods are continuously emerging, driving the global cross-border payment system onto a more efficient, secure, inclusive and diverse trajectory. This trend will continue to strengthen.

    First, the cross-border payment system has become more diversified. In terms of currency usage, an increasing number of countries and regions are using local currencies for settlement, promoting the international use of a broader range of currencies. Cross-border payments dominated by a single sovereign currency are undergoing gradual changes. As for payment channels, the rise of new cross-border payment systems and regional multilateral payment systems, along with the traditional correspondent bank model, has diversified settlement channels and further improved the efficiency of cross-border payments. After over a decade of construction and development, China has basically established a cross-border RMB payment and clearing network featuring multiple channels and wide coverage.

    Second, the interoperability of payment systems and payment ecosystems continues to improve. More countries and regions have extended the operating hours of their payment systems, adopted internationally standardized messaging formats, and promoted the interconnection of fast payment systems. These efforts have enhanced the efficiency of cross-border payments and reduced transaction costs. Countries and regions exemplified by Asia have made substantial progress in enhancing the interoperability of retail payment ecosystems through the interconnection of QR code payments, greatly facilitating cross-border payments by their residents.

    Third, new technologies are used in cross-border payments at a faster pace. Underpinned by new technologies such as blockchain and distributed ledger, central bank digital currencies and stablecoins are thriving, making possible the simultaneous processing of payment and settlement. The development has fundamentally reshaped the traditional payment landscape, and significantly shortened the cross-border payment chain. It, however, has also posed great challenges to financial regulation. Technologies, such as smart contracts and decentralized finance, will further promote the evolution and development of cross-border payment systems.

    III. On the Global Financial Stability System

    Before the 2008 financial crisis, the international community mainly relied on IMF, which is at the center of the Global Financial Safety Net (GFSN), for crisis response during and after crisis. After the 2008 financial crisis, ex ante prevention mechanisms such as financial regulatory rules were further strengthened.

    On the one hand, the multi-layer financial safety net has continued to improve. I gave a speech on strengthening the financial safety net at the Boao Forum for Asia in March last year. At the global level, in recent years, the IMF has continuously enhanced its crisis response capabilities in times of crisis, strengthened its policy surveillance functions, and expanded the scope of policy surveillance. At the regional level, the European Financial Stability Facility, the Latin American Reserve Fund, the Chiang Mai Initiative in Asia, and the Arab Monetary Fund have been established successively, serving as important supports for financial stability in their respective regions. At the bilateral level, central banks in the major advanced economies such as the U.S. Federal Reserve and the ECB have injected liquidity into the markets during crisis through currency swap arrangements. The local currency swap cooperation among emerging markets has also progressed steadily. The PBOC has signed bilateral currency swap agreements with central banks or monetary authorities in over 30 countries and regions. These swap arrangements have become an important part of the GFSN.

    On the other hand, the crisis prevention system based on regulatory rules has been continuously refined. After the 2008 global financial crisis, the international community overhauled the global financial regulatory system through a number of major reforms, including issuing Basel III, enhancing the robustness of banking institutions, and strengthening the supervision of systemically important financial institutions (SIFIs). China has been actively involved in the formulation and implementation of international regulatory standards, and is one of the few economies that have fully implemented Basel III. China has developed a regulatory framework for SIFIs, and its systemically important banks have all met the total loss-absorbing capacity (TLAC) requirements. China has put in place a deposit insurance scheme capable of providing full protection for more than 99 percent of depositors. It has also issued and fully implemented regulations on asset management, which has significantly reduced the risk of shadow banking.

    Currently, the global financial stability system is faced with some new challenges.

    First, the regulatory framework remains fragmented. There is even a propensity to “race to the bottom”. In recent years, due to domestic political headwinds, some countries have wavered in their implementation of international regulatory rules, such as Basel III. It may lead to regulatory arbitrage, and undermine global financial stability system. The international community should proactively implement the agreed regulatory reform measures, thereby preventing regulatory arbitrage and cross-border transmission of risks.

    Second, the regulation on emerging areas, such as digital finance, remains insufficient. For example, global regulatory coordination is incommensurate with the quick-expanding crypto asset market, and coordination on climate risk-related regulatory framework is yet to be improved. Regulatory stance swings widely, and is highly prone to political influence. A harmonized regulatory standard on the adoption of artificial intelligence in the financial sector is also absent. The international community needs to strengthen coordination and bridge the gaps in regulation.

    Third, the regulation on non-bank intermediaries remains lax. In the past two decades, the weight of non-bank intermediaries in global financing has risen significantly. Funding through non-bank intermediaries is relatively unstable and less transparent, yet the leverage is rising, which calls for enhanced regulation.

    We believe that the key path to crisis prevention and resolution is to establish a diversified and efficient GFSN with a powerful IMF at its core, and to ensure the consistency and authority of global financial regulatory rules. This is also the path that we must follow through.

    IV. On the Governance of International Financial Organizations

    After the World War II, starting with the founding of the IMF and the World Bank, the international community gradually built up a multi-tiered and multi-dimensional system of international financial organizations, covering areas such as international policy coordination, financial regulatory rule-making, and multilateral development. These organizations have become major platforms for international financial governance, and they  play an important role in promoting global economic and trade growth as well as safeguarding global financial stability.

    While global economic landscape keeps changing, quotas and voting power haven’t seen any material adjustments for a long time in major international financial organizations, such as the IMF and the World Bank, as well as in some regional financial organizations. As a result, emerging markets and developing countries are significantly underrepresented, and this is incommensurate with their actual weight in the global economy. Moreover, the international community should also be well aware of the fact that a few member countries pursue unilateralism, and they have meddled in the governance and operation of international financial organizations. International financial organizations need to keep pace with the times and advance governance reforms to reflect in time the relative positions of member countries in the global economy and enhance the voice and representativeness of emerging markets and developing countries. International financial organizations should safeguard and practice true multilateralism, and improve governance efficiency.

    Among all the international financial organizations, the IMF is at the core, and it plays a vital role in global economic and financial governance. The IMF is a quota-based international financial organization. The size of quotas determines the IMF’s crisis response capacity in crisis, while quota shares determine member countries’ voting power in the IMF and the amount of financing they have access to. The current quota shares can not reflect the relative positions of member countries in the global economy. An immediate quota share realignment in line with the consensus reached is crucial for the IMF to improve governance and enhance its legitimacy and representativeness.

    The global economy is now facing heightened uncertainty. While improving their governance structures, major international financial organizations should further reinforce their roles in economic surveillance. They should assess objectively the risks facing the world and individual countries, and offer guidance to member countries to cement their support for economic globalization and the multilateral trading system. They should also strengthen policy guidance for member countries and enhance macroeconomic policy coordination to keep the international financial system stable.

    Dear guests,

    Improving global financial governance requires more frequent dialogues and stronger cooperation among all parties. Staying committed to reform and opening-up and upholding a path of multilateralism, we will work actively to play a constructive role in helping foster a global financial governance system that is more equitable, fair, inclusive, and resilient.

    To conclude, I wish the Forum a full success. Thank you.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: W Cape welcomes employment of new peace officers in Bergrivier

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Wednesday, July 2, 2025

    Western Cape MEC for Police Oversight and Community Safety, Anroux Marais, has voiced her support for the graduation and employment of 20 new peace officers (POs) in the Bergrivier Municipality.

    According to the provincial department, the recruitment and training of these officers is part of a five-year strategic plan aimed at strengthening local law enforcement across municipalities in the province.

    This initiative is designed to create a safer Western Cape for everyone.

    In collaboration with the City of Cape Town’s accredited Public Training College, the graduates completed a 30-day programme accredited by the Safety and Security Sector Education and Training Authority (SASSETA). 

    Upon finishing the course, the officers received formal certification to serve as both peace officers and traffic wardens.

    Addressing the graduates during the ceremony, Marais reminded them that their role extends beyond merely enforcing the law. 

    “You are here not only to maintain order but also to build trust, foster relationships, and help create safer, more connected communities, where residents can live and move freely,“ she said. 

    Marais encouraged them to serve with honour, courage and distinction.

    The MEC believes that the training and certification these young peace officers have received not only enhances their employability but also opens doors to future careers in law enforcement and public safety.

    “The Western Cape government remains committed to investing in youth and building safer communities through initiatives like our Peace Officer Training Project. Safer communities support a stronger economy, as people are more likely to invest when they feel safe, which in turn drives job creation.” – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Businesses showcase tough justice tech to Government ministers

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Businesses showcase tough justice tech to Government ministers

    Thousands of criminals could soon be managed by revolutionary new technology to enhance how the justice system monitors offenders and cuts reoffending.

    • Businesses pitch new technology to Ministers that will deliver safer streets, contributing to the Government’s Plan for Change  
    • Strict 24/7 surveillance and enhanced AI could monitor criminals in the community more closely than ever before 
    • New “smell-detector” AI device could detect substance abuse inside and outside prison

    On Tuesday 01 July, seven top tech companies pitched their ideas to the Prisons and Probation’s Minister, James Timpson, as part of a Dragon’s Den style pitch, after being whittled down from over 90 submissions.  

    The finalists included companies developing AI home monitoring which will toughen up punishment outside of prison. Cameras would be installed inside offenders’ homes, with artificial intelligence used to analyse offenders’ behaviours ensuring they comply with licence conditions.  

    Other radical tech ideas included ‘smell detector’ devices which use synthetic brain cells and AI to replicate the behaviour of a human nose. The tech will help deliver enhanced surveillance and detect the use of drugs, such as Spice or Fentanyl, offering prison and probation a swift way to detect drugs and boost staff safety.  

    Additional proposals included software to standardise how staff input information on offenders, alongside transcription tools to cut the administrative burden and cost to taxpayers, while allowing staff to focus more of their time on cutting crime. 

    The successful businesses will have their proposals considered for pilot rollouts, helping staff on the front line to tackle violence in prison and monitor offenders. 

    This follows the Government’s response to the Independent Sentencing Review, which recommended the greater use of technology and community sentencing in a bid to tackle the inherited crisis in our prisons system. 

    Prisons, Probation and Reducing Reoffending Minister, James Timpson, said:  

    We inherited a justice system in crisis and in need of reform. Prisons and probation are working in analogue while tech drives forward a new digital age.

    That’s why we have invited companies to present bold new ideas to help us deliver tough punishment and enhanced surveillance. Embracing new technologies will help us to protect victims, reduce reoffending and cut crime as part of our Plan for Change.

    In the Spending Review, the Government announced that the Probation Service will receive up to £700 million, an almost 45% increase in funding. This new funding will mean tens of thousands more offenders can be tagged and monitored in the community.  

    These technological solutions follow the publication of recent research that confirms curfew tags, which keep offenders at home and off the streets during certain times, can reduce reoffending by 20 per cent. This demonstrates how even older technology is supporting punishment in the community and cutting crime.

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Malawi Secures Gains Against Polio, Strengthens Health Systems for the Future


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    As Malawi celebrates its first anniversary after officially closing its reimported wild poliovirus (WPV1) outbreak, the country is taking strategic steps to sustain hard-won gains and strengthen its broader health system. On 24 April 2025, health leaders, partners, and stakeholders gathered for the National Polio Transition Planning meeting, an important milestone in ensuring that the infrastructure built to eradicate polio continues to serve Malawi’s communities for years to come.

    From Polio Response to Long-Term Resilience

    Polio resources – from trained personnel to disease surveillance systems-have played a key role in emergency health responses across Malawi. The transition planning process aims to protect these assets and ensure their integration into the national health system. In line with the Polio Transition Strategic Framework, Malawi’s plan supports national ownership of essential polio functions, including surveillance, immunization, and outbreak response.

    “Transitioning from GPEI support means we must strengthen our ability to manage core functions nationally. This is vital to keep Malawi polio-free and improve our capacity to detect and respond to other vaccine-preventable diseases,” said Dr. Patrick Wataya Chirwa, Chair of the National Certification Committee.

    In May 2020, Malawi (alongside the rest of the African Region) was certified free of indigenous wild poliovirus. However, the detection of a reimported case from Southern Asia in 2022 served as a powerful reminder that polio remains a global threat. Malawi’s health authorities responded swiftly and decisively, successfully interrupting transmission by May 2024.

    By January 2025, the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) had classified the country as low-risk on its global polio watchlist—a testament to Malawi’s strong response and surveillance systems.

    However, maintaining that status means planning for the future. As external polio funding declines, Malawi must close gaps in workforce and financing. The Polio Transition Plan will help secure critical capacities and align them with the Ministry of Health-led Immunization Programme, reinforcing the country’s ability to prevent and respond to outbreaks.

    Sarah Wanyoike, from WHO AFRO’s Eastern and Southern Africa inter-country support team, highlighted how lessons from Malawi’s recent outbreak response can shape a stronger, more resilient health system. “We must integrate service delivery and strengthen surveillance across the board—not just for polio, but for all vaccine-preventable diseases,” she said.

    The plan focuses on optimizing existing systems, integrating surveillance efforts, and building multisectoral collaboration, linking immunization, emergency preparedness, One Health approaches, and community engagement.

    At the meeting, Dr. Neema Kimambo, WHO Representative to Malawi, emphasized that the transition is not just a health sector responsibility. It requires cross-cutting collaboration among government agencies, local health authorities, partners, and civil society.

    “Malawi’s success will depend on strong coordination between the Ministry of Health, EPI, the Public Health Institute of Malawi, district councils, health partners, NGOs, and communities themselves,” Dr. Kimambo noted.

    These efforts aim to ensure that the systems and knowledge built through the polio programme continue to benefit Malawians, supporting everything from emergency response to routine immunization and disease surveillance.

    Malawi’s National Polio Transition Plan is a blueprint not only for sustaining polio eradication efforts but also for advancing universal health coverage and equity. As the country moves from emergency response to long-term resilience, WHO and partners remain committed to supporting a smooth and sustainable transition—helping Malawi stay polio-free and healthier for generations to come.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Health Organization (WHO) – Malawi.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Violence against civilians surges amidst escalating conflict in South Sudan (January – March 2025)


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    Violence against civilians in South Sudan is escalating to record levels, according to a new report by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan, which documents 1,607 victims in the first quarter of this year, the highest number in any three-month period since 2020.

    The report reveals that 739 civilians were killed, 679 injured, 149 abducted, and 40 subjected to conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV) between January and March 2025. Compared to the October to December 2024 quarter, this marked an 86 percent increase in victims (866 to 1,607), a 110 percent increase in civilians killed (352 to 739) and a 94 percent increase in those injured (350 to 679). Abductions rose from 129 to 149 and CRSV cases from 35 to 40.

    Compared to the same quarter in 2024, this represents a 76 percent increase in victims (913 to 1,607) 58 percent increase in killings (468 to 739) and 107 percent increase in injuries (328 to 679).

    Warrap State recorded the highest number of civilians affected, with 428 deaths and 298 injuries, followed by Central Equatoria with a 260 percent increase in victims and the most abductions. The number of child victims increased sharply from 114 to 171. Women and girls continued to be disproportionately affected by CRSV and other acts of sexual and gender-based violence, together accounting for 98 percent of documented victims.

    Consistent with the previous quarter, most victims were attributed to community-based militias or civil defense groups (66 percent), while unidentified, opportunistic armed elements were responsible for 22 percent.

    Conventional parties to the armed conflict and other armed groups were responsible for 15 percent of victims, marking a concerning increase of 27 percent (from 152 to 193). The escalation of armed confrontations involving these parties and groups severely undermined the protection of civilians and resulted in violations and abuses of human rights and international humanitarian law.

    “It is the primary responsibility of the Government to protect civilians and prevent conflicts, which continue to cause immense harm to communities across the country,” said Guang Cong, Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General, UNMISS. “Together with regional and international partners, UNMISS calls for concerted, collective efforts at the national, state and local levels to address the underlying causes and drivers, facilitate the resolution of grievances through dialogue and hold perpetrators accountable in order to end the deadly cycle of violence.”

    As an impartial partner, UNMISS supports efforts to protect civilians and deter violence by conducting thousands of peacekeeping patrols by land, air, and river each year, facilitating locally led reconciliation and peacebuilding initiatives, strengthening rule of law institutions and extending their reach through mobile courts to far flung areas and helping to advance broader political and peace processes in the country, while emphasizing on the need for accountability and justice for abuses and violations of human rights and international humanitarian law.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • Trump’s ceasefire statement raises hopes in Gaza as Israel presses on with attacks

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Word from U.S. President Donald Trump that Israel has agreed to the conditions needed to finalise a 60-day ceasefire in Gaza raised hopes on Wednesday in the enclave, where health officials said at least 20 people had been killed in Israeli attacks.

    A “final” proposal would be delivered by the mediators, Qatar and Egypt, to Hamas, Trump said in a social media post on Tuesday, after what he described as a “long and productive” meeting between his representatives and Israeli officials.

    Gazans said even a temporary pause would bring relief.

    “I hope it would work this time, even if for two months, it would save thousands of innocent lives,” Kamal, a resident of Gaza City, said by phone.

    There is growing public pressure on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to reach a permanent ceasefire in Gaza and end the nearly two-year-long war, a move strongly opposed by hardline members of his right-wing ruling coalition.

    Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar wrote on X on Wednesday that a majority within the coalition government would back an agreement that would see the release of the remaining hostages held by Hamas militants in Gaza.

    “If there is an opportunity to do so – we must not miss it!”, he wrote on X. Of 50 hostages still held, around 20 are believed to be still alive.

    For Gazans, who have fled multiple times and face daily struggles to find food 21 months into Israel’s military campaign, the statements provided a glimmer of hope.

    “Everyone is hopeful that it would work this time, there is no room for more failures, every day more costs us our lives,” said Tamer Al-Burai, a businessman.

    “We are living the most difficult days. People want an end to the war, an end to the starvation and humiliation.”

    There was no immediate official comment by either Israel or Hamas to Trump’s latest statement on the progress of the plan.

    “Israel has agreed to the necessary conditions to finalize the 60 Day CEASEFIRE, during which time we will work with all parties to end the War,” Trump’s statement said, without specifying the conditions.

    IRAN LINK

    The U.S. president appeared to be seeking to use any momentum from U.S. and Israeli strikes on nuclear sites in Iran and a recently agreed ceasefire in that conflict to put pressure on Hamas, which is backed by Tehran. Israeli leaders also believe that, with Iran weakened by last month’s 12-day war, other countries in the region have an opportunity to forge ties with Israel.

    A Hamas official declined immediate comment on Trump’s statement. A source close to the group said leaders of the Islamist faction were expected to debate the proposal and seek clarifications from mediators before giving an official response.

    At the end of May, Hamas had said it was seeking amendments to a U.S.-backed ceasefire proposal, which Trump’s envoy Steve Witkoff said was “totally unacceptable.”

    That proposal had involved a 60-day ceasefire and the release of half the hostages held by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian prisoners and the remains of other Palestinians; Hamas would release the remaining hostages as part of a deal that guarantees the end of the war.

    Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid wrote on X on Wednesday that his party could provide the government with a safety net if hardline members of the Israeli cabinet opposed a deal, effectively pledging not to back a no-confidence motion in parliament that could topple the government.

    Gaza health authorities said Israeli gunfire and military strikes killed at least 20 Palestinians in separate attacks in north and southern areas, and the Israeli military ordered more evacuations late on Tuesday.

    In response to questions from Reuters about the reports, the Israeli military stated that its operations aimed to dismantle Hamas’ military capabilities and mitigate civilian harm, without commenting on specific incidents.

    The war began when Hamas fighters stormed into Israel on October 7, 2023, killed 1,200 people, most of them civilians, and took 251 hostages back to Gaza in a surprise attack that led to Israel’s single deadliest day.

    Israel’s subsequent military assault has killed more than 56,000 Palestinians, most of them civilians, according to the Gaza health ministry, displaced almost the whole 2.3 million population and plunged the enclave into a humanitarian crisis.

    More than 80% of the territory is now an Israeli-militarized zone or under displacement orders, according to the UN.

    (Reuters)

  • What’s in the Republican tax and spending plan?

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Republican-controlled Congress on Wednesday could pass a sweeping budget package that would fulfill many of President Donald Trump’s priorities. It has already passed the Senate and needs to be approved again by the House of Representatives before Trump can sign it into law.

    Here is a summary of the major elements of the package, with cost and savings estimates by the Congressional Budget Office or the Joint Committee on Taxation when available.

    CBO estimates the bill would add $3.3 trillion to the $36.2-trillion debt over 10 years, reduce revenues by $4.5 trillion and cut spending by $1.2 trillion. The number of people without health insurance would increase by 10.9 million over that period due to changes to programs such as Medicaid.

    INDIVIDUAL TAX CUTS

    • Makes permanent the lower income tax rates in Trump’s 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act that are currently due to expire at the end of 2025 (Cost: $2.2 trillion)

    • Extends the standard deduction. (Cost: $1.4 trillion)

    • Extends and expands the alternative minimum tax exemption. (Cost: $1.4 trillion)

    • Expands the Child Tax Credit to $2,200 and indexes to inflation. (Cost: $817 billion)

    • Raises the estate tax exemption to $15 million. (Cost: $212 billion)

    • Exempts taxes on overtime pay until 2029. (Cost: $90 billion)

    • Exempts taxes on some tipped income until 2029. (Cost: $32 billion)

    • Creates a new deduction of up to $6,000 for people age 65 and older until 2029

    • Creates a tax break for some interest payments on auto loans until 2029. (Cost: $31 billion)

    • New tax-advantaged savings accounts for newborns. (Cost: $15 billion)

    • Expands deduction for state and local tax (SALT) payments from $10,000 to $40,000 until 2029

    • Exempts up to $1,700 for contributions to scholarship funds for private schools (Cost: $26 billion)

    BUSINESS TAX BREAKS

    • Extends and increases a tax break for owners of “pass-through” businesses, such as sole proprietorships and LLCs (Cost: $737 billion)

    • Full expensing for business equipment purchases (Cost: $363 billion)

    • Full expensing of business research and development costs (Cost: $141 billion)

    • Expands tax break for business interest expenses (Cost: $61 billion)

    OTHER TAX CHANGES

    • Raises taxes on the biggest private university endowments from 1.4% to 21% (New revenue: $761 million)

    • Imposes a new 1% tax on funds sent by immigrants to their home countries (New revenue: $10 billion)

    • Eliminates taxes on firearm silencers (Cost: $1.7 billion)

    • Gives the government power to strip tax exempt status from organizations found to be “terrorist supporting”

    MEDICAID AND OTHER HEALTH PROGRAMS

    Total savings: $1.1 trillion

    • Requires able-bodied adults who have no dependents to work, volunteer or be in school at least 80 hours a month starting in 2027

    • Bolsters eligibility verification measures for participants and healthcare providers and removes rules that make it easier to enroll

    • Excludes some non-citizens from the program and penalizes states that use their own funds to provide coverage to them

    • Blocks regulations that required minimum staffing levels at nursing homes and other long-term care facilities

    • Prohibits funding for gender transition therapies for minors

    • Prohibits payments to large providers like Planned Parenthood that specialize in birth control, abortion and other reproductive health services

    • Limits state “provider taxes” that are used to raise the federal government’s contribution

    • Adds $50 billion to rural providers to help offset the loss of revenue from the provider-tax limitation

    • Imposes stricter eligibility requirements for Affordable Care Act exchange insurance coverage

    ENERGY, ENVIRONMENT, COMMUNICATIONS

    • Repeals grant programs for purchasing electric heavy-duty vehicles

    • Repeals grants to reduce air pollution, greenhouse gas emissions

    • Creates incentives for pipelines, natural gas exports and exploration

    • Ends tax breaks for electric vehicles

    • Ends tax breaks for clean electricity and green energy

    • Restricts incentives for nuclear power

    • Cancels funding for green-energy grant programs in the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act, including vehicle manufacturing, home efficiency upgrades, electricity transmission and wind power

    • Weakens enforcement of fuel-efficiency standards for automobiles and pickup trucks

    • Makes more electromagnetic communication spectrum bands available for auction

    IMMIGRATION AND JUSTICE

    Total cost: $178 billion

    • Provides money for border wall construction

    • Funds surveillance towers, drones and other border-security equipment

    • Increases staffing for immigration enforcement, border control and immigration courts

    • Increases detention capacity for immigration enforcement

    • Increases law enforcement protection of the president

    • Adds funding to investigate visa fraud and other immigration-related crimes

    • Imposes new fees of up to $5,000 for immigrants’ work permits, court hearings, applications for asylum and other matters

    • Reimburses states for border-security costs

    • Allows courts to require plaintiffs to post a bond when they sue to block government policies

    MILITARY

    Total cost: $153 billion

    • Increases spending on shipbuilding

    • Adds funds for air and missile defense

    • Pays for munitions, nuclear weapons

    • Funds military operations to assist with border security

    FOOD ASSISTANCE

    Total savings: $186 billion

    • Increases work requirements for some of the 41 million participants in the SNAP food aid program

    • Shift some costs from federal government to states

    • Bars some noncitizens from benefits

    EDUCATION

    • Changes student loan repayment plans (Savings: $287 billion)

    • Imposes borrowing limits for some student loan programs (Savings: $51 billion)

    • Limits the government’s ability to cancel student debt (Savings: $18 billion)

    (Reuters)