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Category: Politics

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK to lead crackdown on cyber criminals with ransomware measures

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    UK to lead crackdown on cyber criminals with ransomware measures

    Measures to tackle the threat of ransomware and protect businesses and critical services will be taken forward with industry following public consultation.

    Image: Getty Images

    Hospitals, businesses, and critical services are set to be protected under measures designed to crack down on cyber criminals and safeguard the public, following public consultation on ransomware proposals.

    Ransomware is software used maliciously by cyber criminals to access victims’ computer systems. Systems and data can be encrypted, or data stolen, until a ransom is paid. Ransomware is estimated to cost the UK economy millions of pounds each year, with recent high-profile ransomware attacks highlighting the severe operational, financial, and even life-threatening risks. 

    Public sector bodies and operators of critical national infrastructure, including the NHS, local councils and schools, would be banned from paying ransom demands to criminals under the measure, with nearly three quarters of consultation respondents showing support for the proposal.

    The ban would target the business model that fuels cyber criminals’ activities and makes the vital services the public rely on a less attractive target for ransomware groups.    

    Under the proposals, businesses not covered by the ban would be required to notify the government of any intent to pay a ransom. The government could then provide those businesses with advice and support, including notifying them if any such payment would risk breaking the law by sending money to sanctioned cyber criminal groups, many of whom are based in Russia.  

    Mandatory reporting is also being developed, which would equip law enforcement with essential intelligence to hunt down perpetrators and disrupt their activities, allowing for better support for victims. Consultation responses showed strong support for a new mandatory reporting regime to better protect British organisations and industry.

    The new package of measures will lead the way in tackling ransomware and are designed to strike against cyber criminals’ business model, bolstering our national security and protecting key services and businesses from disruption – delivering on our Plan for Change. They follow an extensive consultation with stakeholders across the UK which showed strong public backing for tougher action to tackle ransomware and protect vital services. 

    Security Minister Dan Jarvis said:  

    Ransomware is a predatory crime that puts the public at risk, wrecks livelihoods and threatens the services we depend on. 

    That’s why we’re determined to smash the cyber criminal business model and protect the services we all rely on as we deliver our Plan for Change. 

    By working in partnership with industry to advance these measures, we are sending a clear signal that the UK is united in the fight against ransomware.

    In addition to the proposed new measures, the government continues to urge organisations across the country to strengthen their ability to maintain operations in the event of a successful ransomware attack. This includes having offline backups, tested plans to operate without IT for an extended period, and a well-rehearsed strategy for restoring systems from backups. 

    Cyber criminals have not only cost the nation billions of pounds but in some cases have brought essential services to a standstill.   

    The devastating consequences are not just financial but can put lives in danger, with an NHS organisation recently identifying a ransomware attack as one of the factors that contributed to a patient’s death.

    These attacks have brutally exposed the alarming vulnerability at the core of our public and private institutions, from flagship British retailers and essential supermarkets including the Co-op to NHS hospitals.  

    British Library Chief Executive Rebecca Lawrence said:

    The British Library, which holds one of the world’s most significant collections of human knowledge, was the victim of a devastating ransomware attack in October 2023.

    The attack destroyed our technology infrastructure and continues to impact our users, however, as a public body, we did not engage with the attackers or pay the ransom. Instead, we are committed to sharing our experiences to help protect other institutions affected by cyber-crime and build collective resilience for the future.

    NCSC Director of National Resilience Jonathon Ellison said:

    These new measures help undermine the criminal ecosystem that is causing harm across our economy.

    Ransomware remains a serious and evolving threat, and organisations must not become complacent. All businesses should strengthen their defences using proven frameworks such as Cyber Essentials and our free Early Warning service, and be prepared to respond to incidents, recover quickly, and maintain continuity if the worst happens.

    Co-op CEO Shirine Khoury-Haq said:

    We know first-hand the damage and disruption cyber-attacks cause to businesses and communities. That’s why we welcome the government’s focus on Cyber Crime.

    What matters most is learning, building resilience, and supporting each other to prevent future harm. This is a step in the right direction for building a safer digital future.  

    These robust proposals are part of the government’s Plan for Change to defend businesses, services, and infrastructure against cyber threats to better protect the public.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 July 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: National security powers to be updated to reduce the burden on businesses

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    National security powers to be updated to reduce the burden on businesses

    Investment security rules under the National Security and Investment (NSI) Act 2021 will be simplified to ease the burden on businesses as part of the Plan for Change.

    • Plans to reduce unnecessary red tape for businesses by ensuring mandatory notifications are no longer needed for certain internal reorganisations and the appointment of liquidators 
    • New consultation will put businesses at the heart of potential changes to the sectors facing the greatest scrutiny by the government’s investment security powers
    • Semiconductors, Critical Minerals carved out into standalone sectors and Water to be considered for addition to list of sensitive sectors 
    • NSIA Annual Report shows just 4.5% of notifications were called in for review, with the vast majority cleared to proceed in 30 days  

    Investment security rules under the National Security and Investment (NSI) Act 2021 will be simplified to ease the burden on businesses as part of the Plan for Change. 

    The changes, currently being developed, will when they come into force reduce unnecessary bureaucracy for businesses, no longer requiring them to notify the Cabinet Office’s Investment Security Unit when undertaking certain types of internal reorganisations or appointing liquidators, special administrators and official receivers. 

    Analysis has shown these types of transactions rarely warrant investigation. Simplifying the rules will ease the regulatory burden and help the government focus its attention on the deals presenting greater risk to national security.

    Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, Pat McFadden said: 

    The government has been clear about our ambition to cut red tape for businesses, while taking firm action to protect national security as we deliver the Plan for Change. 

    Data shows our investment security powers are working well, but there’s more we can do to ensure our tool kit keeps pace with the modern economy. We’re taking action to hone the type of transactions facing the greatest scrutiny, as well as consulting on updates to the sectors of the economy specified in the legislation. Businesses are at the heart of these plans and I look forward to engaging widely in the weeks ahead.

    The announcement comes as the government also publishes a new consultation—due to launch on 22 July and conclude on 14 October—-on separate plans to update the sectors of the economy subject to greater scrutiny under the National Security and Investment Act 2021. 

    Acquirers of businesses operating in seventeen sensitive sectors must currently notify the Investment Security Unit about relevant acquisitions before the deal can be completed. These sectors were first defined in 2021 and have not been updated since. 

    Building on business feedback, and to improve clarity and bring the sectors up to date with the latest economic and technological developments, the government is proposing creating new standalone categories for Semiconductors and Critical Minerals, which currently fall under the Advanced Materials sector. Computing Hardware, which is currently a standalone sector, would move under the Semiconductors sector. 

    Pat McFadden has also requested businesses’ views on bringing certain deals in the water sector into scope of the NSI Act’s mandatory notification requirements. This new requirement, while not expected to affect large numbers of deals, reflects increasing risks to the sector’s resilience in a growing threat landscape.

    Alongside the reforms and consultation, the Cabinet Office is also publishing the National Security and Investment Act Annual Report. This sets out the Investment Security Unit’s activity between 2024-2025. 

    It shows that the government saw an increase in the number of notifications received year on year, rising from 906 to 1,143.

    Similar to last year, only 4.5% of notified acquisitions reviewed were called in for further assessment, with the vast majority of businesses notified within 30 working days that no further action would be taken.

    The government issued 17 final orders: 16 allowing the acquisitions to proceed subject to conditions and one requiring divestment. 

    Like last year, the largest proportion of notifications involved acquisitions in the Defence, Critical Suppliers to Government and Military & Dual Use areas of the economy, and acquirers associated with the UK, followed by the US. 

    Of the 17 final orders issued, the largest number involved acquirers associated with the UK, followed by acquirers associated with China and acquirers associated with the USA. Defence and Military & Dual Use acquisitions also accounted for the largest number of final orders.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 July 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: More infected blood victims set to receive compensation under changes to scheme

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    More infected blood victims set to receive compensation under changes to scheme

    The Government outlines changes to the Infected Blood Compensation Scheme in response to the Infected Blood Inquiry Additional Report

    • Government makes changes to the Infected Blood Compensation Scheme in response to new recommendations from the Infected Blood Inquiry
    • Changes include modifications for those who have endured treatments with adverse side effects, and chronic Hepatitis C individuals 
    • Further changes will address compensation for affected victims and their estates

    More victims of the infected blood scandal will be able to claim compensation as the government proposes changes to the existing Infected Blood Compensation Scheme.

    Changes could result in over a thousand people receiving a higher amount of compensation than they would have under the existing scheme. 

    The proposed changes will ensure that those who endured treatments with adverse side effects, such as interferon, will receive higher compensation to what is currently provided. 

    The changes will also provide further compensation for the impacts currently recognised by the Infected Blood Support Scheme ‘Special Category Mechanism’, provided to chronic Hepatitis C individuals who have experienced a significant impact on their ability to carry out daily duties.

    Further changes will address compensation for affected victims. Under the existing scheme, if an affected person – a spouse, partner, sibling, parent or unpaid carer of an infected person – passed away, their claim would die with them. 

    However, changes to the scheme will now mean that if the affected person has died or dies after May 21st 2024, their estate will be able to make a claim. While the total number of affected victims is not known, this could enable significantly more people to receive compensation.

    These changes come in response to 16 new recommendations from the Infected Blood Inquiry, published in its Additional Report on Compensation on Wednesday 9th July.

    Minister for the Cabinet Office and Paymaster General, Nick Thomas-Symonds, set out these changes today in Parliament.

    He said: 

    When I appeared before the Inquiry in May, I said that I would take a constructive approach and – carefully – consider the issues that had been put to me.

    I have concentrated on removing barriers to quicker compensation, working with IBCA, and am determined to deliver improvements based on this new report.

    Our focus as we move forward must be working together to not only deliver justice to all those impacted, but also to restore trust in the state to people who have been let down too many times.

    Today, the government has also announced that Clive Smith, President of the Haemophilia Society, will be the Chair of the Infected Blood Memorial Committee.

    Mr Smith will lead the work to create a national memorial to the victims of the Infected Blood Scandal. This project will include plans for a UK memorial and support memorials in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

    In line with the Infected Blood Inquiry’s recommendation, the Committee will also develop plans for commemorative events and is planning to hold the first by the end of 2025.

    Incoming Chair of the Infected Blood Memorial Committee Clive Smith said:

    A memorial to the thousands who have died from the contaminated blood scandal is long overdue.  It is a great privilege to be asked to lead this important work on behalf of the community.  

    I am conscious that we are already behind in relation to implementing the Infected Blood Inquiry’s recommendation that community events be held on a 6-month basis post the Inquiry reporting.  We intend to correct that by the end of this year.  

    I look forward to working with the whole community across the UK on building an appropriate memorial to those we have lost and to act as a lasting memorial to the Nation of what can happen when patient safety is not prioritised.

    Ends

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 July 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK brings forward world’s first sanctions regime to smash the gangs responsible for irregular migration 

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    UK brings forward world’s first sanctions regime to smash the gangs responsible for irregular migration 

    Anyone complicit in facilitating people smuggling to the UK will be at risk of having their assets frozen and being banned from travelling to Britain, under new powers announced by the Foreign Secretary today.

    • Anyone complicit in facilitating people smuggling to the UK could be sanctioned from tomorrow.   
    • Targets will have assets frozen, be shut off from the UK financial system and banned from travelling to the UK, under new regime targeting supply of money and material enabling irregular migration. 
    • New sanctions are the latest tool in UK’s arsenal to secure Britain’s borders, reduce irregular migration and deliver on the Plan for Change.

    Anyone complicit in facilitating people smuggling to the UK will be at risk of having their assets frozen and being banned from travelling to Britain, under new powers announced by the Foreign Secretary today. 

    Tomorrow, the FCDO will impose the first wave of sanctions on gangs involved in people smuggling and driving irregular migration to the UK, as well as their enablers, such as financiers and companies involved in the sale of small boat equipment.   

    The plans are a key example of the FCDO using innovative foreign policy approaches to deliver on the Plan for Change for the British people. The regime will be the world’s first dedicated to targeting people smuggling and organised immigration crime, with the exploitation of vulnerable people by criminals and their associated networks being one of the key drivers of irregular migration to the UK. Migrants who pay people-smugglers are also at a high risk of working in modern slavery conditions in the informal economy, being returned to their home country, or losing their lives at sea.   

    Sanctions can disrupt the flow of money and materials – including freezing property, bank accounts and other assets – which allow organised criminal gangs to facilitate irregular migration to the UK. Sanctions are designed to reach individuals located anywhere in the world, who will be publicly named so that it is illegal for the UK financial system to engage with them.     

    As part of the government’s Plan for Change and mission-led approach, the FCDO has been breaking down siloes by working closely with investigators at the National Crime Agency, Border Security Command, and other key partners to identify the most impactful targets, with the first sanctions planned for tomorrow.  

    The first targets will cover a range of wrongdoing, from the supply of small boats being used on cross-Channel journeys, to the trade in fake passports, as well as middlemen facilitating payments through Hawala networks, to the gang leaders themselves.  

    The regime will complement new powers for law enforcement being introduced in the Border, Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill, ensuring we have the widest toolkit available to smash the gangs.  Sanctions can be used to target organised immigration crime gangs and their enablers, wherever they are, including where traditional law enforcement and criminal justice approaches cannot reach. People smuggling and human trafficking are a challenge to global security, and the Government is working to strengthen our relationships with key partners, including the EU, to better secure the UK’s borders.  

     Foreign Secretary, David Lammy, said:   

    For too long, criminal gangs have been lining their corrupt pockets and preying on the hopes of vulnerable people with impunity as they drive irregular migration to the UK. We will not accept this status quo. 

    It is our moral duty and a key part of our Plan for Change to do all we can to smash these gangs and secure Britain’s borders. 

    That’s why the UK has created the world’s first sanctions regime targeted at gangs involved in people smuggling and driving irregular migration, as well as their enablers. From tomorrow, those involved will face having their assets frozen, being shut off from the UK financial system and banned from travelling to the UK.

    Today’s announcement reflects how the whole of government is working together on the single mission of securing Britain’s borders. The new regime complements work by the National Crime Agency and Border Security Command (BSC) to tackle organised immigration crime and tackle the causes of irregular migration to the UK in source and transit countries. The BSC has seen a budget boost of £280m per year by 2028 to fund new specialist investigators, new technology and cutting-edge surveillance equipment to disrupt and destroy criminal gangs.   

    Home Secretary, Yvette Cooper, said:  

    The new sanctions regime marks a decisive step in our fight against the criminal gangs who profit from human misery. It will allow us to target the assets and operations of people-smugglers wherever they operate, cutting off their funding and dismantling their networks piece by piece. 

    Through the Border Security Command and key partners like the National Crime Agency, we are strengthening our ties with other nations to tackle this global problem. 

    Together, we are sending a clear message that there is no hiding place for those who exploit vulnerable people and put lives at risk for profit.

    Today’s announcement is part of the FCDO’s three-pronged ‘disrupt, deter, return’ strategy to tackle irregular migration globally. In addition to disrupting organised immigration crime networks through sanctions, the FCDO works with source and transit countries to deter would-be migrants from making a dangerous journey in the first place, and works with the Home Office to negotiate the return of people who have no right to be here to their countries of origin, including criminals and failed asylum seekers. Since the election, over 35,000 people have been returned, up 13% on the same period in the year before.   

    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.

    Notes to editors             

    Using the powers conferred by the Sanctions and Anti-Money Laundering Act (the Sanctions Act) the Government has laid secondary legislation before Parliament that introduces a new Global Irregular Migration and Trafficking in Persons sanctions regime. The Regulations will be debated by both Houses of Parliament when they return from the summer recess in line with the made affirmative procedure.     

    Asset freeze   

    An asset freeze prevents any UK citizen, or any business in the UK, from dealing with any funds or economic resources which are owned, held or controlled by the designated person. UK financial sanctions apply to all persons within the territory and territorial sea of the UK and to all UK persons, wherever they are in the world. It also prevents funds or economic resources being provided to or for the benefit of the designated person.   

    Travel ban   

    A travel ban means that the designated person must be refused leave to enter or to remain in the United Kingdom, providing the individual is an excluded person under section 8B of the Immigration Act 1971.   

    Director disqualifications   

    Where director disqualification sanctions apply, it will be an offence for a person designated for the purpose of those sanctions to act as a director of a company or to take part in the management, formation or promotion of a UK company.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 July 2025

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Portsmouth International Kite Festival returns

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    It’s back – Portsmouth International Kite Festival is again bringing an explosion of colour to Southsea Common over two days on Saturday and Sunday, 26-27 July 2025.

    A huge range of kites of all shapes and sizes will be on display, with the top flyers in action to delight the crowds. The festival takes place from 10am to 5pm on both days, admission is free of charge.

    On offer this year is a ‘Live at the Bandstand’ programme of music, along with fairground rides, trade stalls from local sellers, and plenty of refreshments.

    The popular kite festival is organised by Portsmouth City Council every year and attracts around 10,000 visitors over the two days.

    Council Leader Cllr Steve Pitt said:

    “Our International Kite Festival is one of the best-loved events of the year. We bring in high quality kite flyers who show off their tricks and skills, and there’s so much else to entertain families and people of all ages.”

    The ongoing Southsea sea defence works means that the event site on the common is slightly smaller than in previous years, so there’s two kite arenas instead of the usual three. Because of this, a model balloon arena has been added for enthusiasts to bring along and exhibit their model balloons.

    There’s also extra entertainment and activities from local organisations, including giant puppets from 432 Nomads, a community arts activity from Seekers Creates, and Aspex Portsmouth will also be running activities.

    Snows BMW & MINI Portsmouth is a supporting sponsor of the event and will be bringing a selection of electric vehicles from across their range for people to view.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: President Lai meets official delegation from European Parliament’s Special Committee on the European Democracy Shield

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    Details
    2025-07-17
    President Lai meets President of Guatemalan Congress Nery Abilio Ramos y Ramos  
    On the morning of July 17, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by Nery Abilio Ramos y Ramos, the president of the Congress of the Republic of Guatemala. In remarks, President Lai thanked Congress President Ramos and the Guatemalan Congress for their support for Taiwan, and noted that official diplomatic relations between Taiwan and Guatemala go back more than 90 years. As important partners in the global democratic community, the president said, the two nations will continue moving forward together in joint defense of the values of democracy and freedom, and will cooperate to promote regional and global prosperity and development. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows:  I recall that when Congress President Ramos visited Taiwan in July last year, he put forward many ideas about how our countries could promote bilateral cooperation and exchanges. Now, a year later, he is leading another cross-party delegation from the Guatemalan Congress on a visit, demonstrating support for Taiwan and continuing to help deepen our diplomatic ties. In addition to extending a sincere welcome to the distinguished delegation members who have traveled so far to be here, I would also like to express our concern and condolences for everyone in Guatemala affected by the earthquake that struck earlier this month. We hope that the recovery effort is going smoothly. Official diplomatic relations between Taiwan and Guatemala go back more than 90 years. In such fields as healthcare, agriculture, education, and women’s empowerment, we have continually strengthened our cooperation to benefit our peoples. Just last month, Guatemala’s President Bernardo Arévalo and the First Lady led a delegation on a state visit to Taiwan. President Arévalo and I signed a letter of intent for semiconductor cooperation, and also witnessed the signing of cooperation documents to establish a political consultation mechanism and continue to promote bilateral investment. This has laid an even sounder foundation for bilateral exchanges and cooperation, and will help enhance both countries’ international competitiveness. Taiwan is currently running a semiconductor vocational training program, helping Guatemala cultivate semiconductor talent and develop its tech industry, and demonstrating our determination to share experience with democratic partners. At the same time, we continue to assist Taiwanese businesses in their efforts to develop overseas markets with Guatemala as an important base, spurring industrial development in both countries and increasing economic and trade benefits. I want to thank Congress President Ramos and the Guatemalan Congress for their continued support for Taiwan’s international participation. Representing the Guatemalan Congress, Congress President Ramos has signed resolutions in support of Taiwan, and has also issued statements addressing China’s misinterpretation of United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758. Taiwan and Guatemala, as important partners in the global democratic community, will continue moving forward together in joint defense of the values of democracy and freedom, and will cooperate to promote regional and global prosperity and development. Congress President Ramos then delivered remarks, first noting that the members of the delegation are not only from different parties, but also represent different classes, cultures, professions, and departments, which shows that the diplomatic ties between Guatemala and the Republic of China (Taiwan) are based on firm friendships at all levels and in all fields. Noting that this was his second time to visit Taiwan and meet with President Lai, Congress President Ramos thanked the government of Taiwan for its warm hospitality. With the international situation growing more complex by the day, he said, Guatemala highly values its longstanding friendship and cooperative ties with Taiwan, and hopes that both sides can continue to deepen their cooperation in such areas as the economy, technology, education, agriculture, and culture, and work together to spur sustainable development in each of our countries. Congress President Ramos said that the way the Taiwan government looks after the well-being of its people is an excellent model for how other countries should promote national development and social well-being. Accordingly, he said, the Guatemalan Congress has stood for justice and, for a second time, adopted a resolution backing Taiwan’s participation in the World Health Assembly. Regarding President Arévalo’s state visit to Taiwan the previous month, Congress President Ramos commented that this high-level interaction has undoubtedly strengthened the diplomatic ties between Taiwan and Guatemala and led to more opportunities for cooperation. Congress President Ramos emphasized that democracy, freedom, and human rights are universal values that bind Taiwan and Guatemala together, and that he is confident the two countries’ diplomatic ties will continue to grow deeper. In closing, on behalf of the Republic of Guatemala, Congress President Ramos presented President Lai with a Chinese translation of the resolution that the Guatemalan Congress proposed to the UN in support of Taiwan’s participation in international organizations, demonstrating the staunch bonds of friendship between the two countries. The delegation was accompanied to the Presidential Office by Guatemala Ambassador Luis Raúl Estévez López.  

    Details
    2025-07-08
    President Lai meets delegation led by Foreign Minister Jean-Victor Harvel Jean-Baptiste of Republic of Haiti
    On the morning of July 8, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by Minister of Foreign Affairs Jean-Victor Harvel Jean-Baptiste of the Republic of Haiti and his wife. In remarks, President Lai noted that our two countries will soon mark the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations and that our exchanges have been fruitful in important areas such as public security, educational cooperation, and infrastructure. The president stated that Taiwan will continue to work together with Haiti to promote the development of medical and health care, food security, and construction that benefits people’s livelihoods. The president thanked Haiti for supporting Taiwan’s international participation and expressed hope that both countries will continue to support each other, deepen cooperation, and face various challenges together. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I am delighted to meet and exchange ideas with Minister Jean-Baptiste, his wife, and our distinguished guests. Minister Jean-Baptiste is the highest-ranking official from Haiti to visit Taiwan since former President Jovenel Moïse visited in 2018, demonstrating the importance that the Haitian government attaches to our bilateral diplomatic ties. On behalf of the Republic of China (Taiwan), I extend a sincere welcome. Next year marks the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between our two countries. Our bilateral exchanges have been fruitful in important areas such as public security, educational cooperation, and infrastructure. Over the past few years, Haiti has faced challenges in such areas as food supply and healthcare. Taiwan will continue to work together with Haiti through various cooperative programs to promote the development of medical and health care, food security, and construction that benefits people’s livelihoods. I want to thank the government of Haiti and Minister Jean-Baptiste for speaking out in support of Taiwan on the international stage for many years. Minister Jean-Baptiste’s personal letter to the World Health Organization Secretariat in May this year and Minister of Public Health and Population Bertrand Sinal’s public statement during the World Health Assembly both affirmed Taiwan’s efforts and contributions to global public health and supported Taiwan’s international participation, for which we are very grateful. I hope that Taiwan and Haiti will continue to support each other and deepen cooperation. I believe that Minister Jean-Baptiste’s visit will open up more opportunities for cooperation for both countries, helping Taiwan and Haiti face various challenges together. In closing, I once again offer a sincere welcome to the delegation led by Minister Jean-Baptiste, and ask him to convey greetings from Taiwan to Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé and the members of the Transitional Presidential Council. Minister Jean-Baptiste then delivered remarks, saying that he is extremely honored to visit Taiwan and reaffirm the solid and friendly cooperative relationship based on mutual respect between the Republic of Haiti and the Republic of China (Taiwan), which will soon mark its 70th anniversary. He also brought greetings to President Lai from Haiti’s Transitional Presidential Council and Prime Minister Fils-Aimé. Minister Jean-Baptiste emphasized that over the past few decades, despite the great geographical distance and developmental and cultural differences between our two countries, we have nevertheless established a firm friendship and demonstrated to the world the progress resulting from the mutual assistance and cooperation between our peoples. Minister Jean-Baptiste pointed out that our two countries cooperate closely in agriculture, health, education, and community development and have achieved concrete results. Taiwan’s voice, he said, is thus essential for the people of Haiti. He noted that Taiwan also plays an important role in peace and innovation and actively participates in global cooperative efforts. Pointing out that the world is currently facing significant challenges and that Haiti is experiencing its most difficult period in history, Minister Jean-Baptiste said that at this time, Taiwan and Haiti need to unite, help each other, and jointly think about how to move forward and deepen bilateral relations to benefit the peoples of both countries. Minister Jean-Baptiste said that he is pleased that throughout our solid and friendly diplomatic relationship, both countries have demonstrated mutual trust, mutual respect, and the values we jointly defend. He then stated his belief that Haiti and Taiwan will together create a cooperation model and future that are sincere, friendly, and sustainable. The delegation was accompanied to the Presidential Office by Chargé d’Affaires a.i. Francilien Victorin of the Embassy of the Republic of Haiti in Taiwan.

    Details
    2025-07-01
    President Lai meets delegation from 2025 Taiwan International Ocean Forum
    On the afternoon of July 1, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation from the 2025 Taiwan International Ocean Forum (TIOF). In remarks, President Lai noted that the people of Taiwan will continue to work with democratic partners throughout the world in a maritime spirit of freedom and openness to contribute to ocean governance and jointly ensure maritime security. He expressed hope that their visit will help forge stronger friendships between Taiwan and international maritime partners, so that all can work together to spur shared maritime prosperity and sustainable development for the next generation. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I want to thank our guests for coming here to the Presidential Office. The 2025 TIOF will take place tomorrow and the day after, and I thank you all for making the long trip to Taiwan to attend the event and share your valuable insights and experiences. This year’s forum will focus on strategies for strengthening maritime security and pathways to achieving a sustainable blue economy. By attending this forum, our guests are highlighting their commitment to safeguarding the oceans, and beyond that, taking concrete action to demonstrate support for Taiwan. I once again offer deepest gratitude on behalf of the people of Taiwan. Taiwan holds a key position on the first island chain, is one of the world’s top 10 shipping nations, and accounts for close to 10 percent of global container shipping by volume. As such, Taiwan occupies a unique and important position in maritime strategy. For Taiwan, the ocean is more than just a basis for survival and development; it is also an important driver of national prosperity. In my inaugural address last year, I spoke of a threefold approach to further Taiwan’s development. One of these involves further developing our strengths as a maritime nation. Our government must actively help deepen our connections with the ocean, and must continue to promote green shipping, a sustainable fishing industry, marine renewable energy, and other forms of industrial transformation. It must also make use of marine technology and digital innovation to create a new paradigm that balances environmental, economic, and social inclusion concerns. This will help enhance Taiwan’s responsibilities and competitiveness as a maritime nation. Taiwan is surrounded by ocean, and our territorial waters are a natural protective barrier. However, continued gray-zone aggression from China creates serious threats and challenges to peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. Our government continues to invest resources to deal with increasingly complex maritime security issues. In addition to building coast guard patrol vessels, we must also step up efforts to build underwater, surface, and airborne unmanned vehicles and smart reconnaissance equipment, so as to demonstrate Taiwan’s determination to defend democracy and freedom and commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. Oceans are Taiwan’s roots, and provide the channels by which we engage with the world. The people of Taiwan will continue to work with democratic partners throughout the world in a maritime spirit of freedom and openness to contribute to ocean governance and jointly ensure maritime security. The TIOF was first launched in 2020, and has now become an important platform for enhancement of cooperation between Taiwan and other countries. I hope that our distinguished guests will reap great benefits at this year’s forum, and further hope that this visit will help forge stronger friendships between Taiwan and international maritime partners, so that all can work together to spur shared maritime prosperity and sustainable development for the next generation. Chairman of The Washington Times Thomas McDevitt, a member of the delegation, then delivered remarks, noting first that July 4th, this Friday, is Independence Day in America. Independence is a sacred, powerful word which has great meaning in this part of the world, he said. Chairman McDevitt indicated that Taiwan has truly become a global beacon of democracy and a key partner for many nations. He then quoted President Lai’s 2024 inaugural address: “We will work together to combat disinformation, strengthen democratic resilience, address challenges, and allow Taiwan to become the MVP of the democratic world.” Chairman McDevitt went on to say that he appreciated the president’s speech with regard to his philosophical depth, sensitivity, and both moral and political clarity. He said that he was deeply moved by the speech, but within a few days of it, China responded with military activities and many threats. The chairman then emphasized that we are in a civilization crisis. Chairman McDevitt mentioned that President Lai has begun a series of 10 lectures, and remarked that they would help the world to understand the identity and the nature of Taiwan, as well as the situation we are in in the world. On behalf of all the delegation, Chairman McDevitt thanked the president for his leadership in dealing with these issues thoughtfully. Chairman McDevitt concluded with a line from the Old Testament which states that if the people have no vision, they will perish. He said that he believes Taiwan’s president has led the people of Taiwan, and the world, with a vision of how to navigate this great civilization crisis together. The delegation also included Members of the Japanese House of Representatives Kikawada Hitoshi, Aoyama Yamato, and Genma Kentaro, and Member of Parliament of the United Kingdom Gavin Williamson.

    Details
    2025-06-30
    President Lai meets Minister of State at UK Department for Business and Trade Douglas Alexander  
    On the morning of June 30, President Lai Ching-te met with Douglas Alexander, Minister of State at the Department for Business and Trade of the United Kingdom. In remarks, President Lai thanked the UK government for its longstanding support for peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, demonstrating that Taiwan and the UK share similar goals. Noting that two years ago, Taiwan and the UK signed an enhanced trade partnership (ETP) arrangement, the president said that today Taiwan and the UK have signed three pillars under the ETP, which will help promote bilateral economic and trade cooperation. He expressed hope of the UK publicly supporting Taiwan’s accession to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) so that together we can create an economic and trade landscape in the Indo-Pacific characterized by shared prosperity and development. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: First, on behalf of the people of Taiwan, I extend a warm welcome to Minister Alexander and wish a fruitful outcome for the 27th round of Taiwan-UK trade talks later today. Taiwan-UK relations have grown closer in recent years. We have not only continued to strengthen cooperation in such fields as offshore wind power, innovative technologies, and culture and education but also have established regular dialogue mechanisms in the critical areas of economics and trade, energy, and agriculture. The UK is currently Taiwan’s fourth-largest European trading partner, second-largest source of investment from Europe, and third-largest target for investment in Europe. Two years ago, Taiwan and the UK signed an ETP arrangement. This was particularly meaningful, as it was the first institutionalized economic and trade framework between Taiwan and a European country. Today, this arrangement is yielding further results. I am delighted that Taiwan and the UK have signed three pillars under the ETP covering investment, digital trade, and energy and net-zero. This will help promote bilateral economic and trade cooperation and advance industrial development on both sides. I also want to thank the UK government for its longstanding support for peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. This month, the UK published its Strategic Defence Review 2025 and National Security Strategy 2025, which oppose any unilateral attempts to change the status quo across the Taiwan Strait. These not only demonstrate that Taiwan and the UK share similar goals but also show that security and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region are inseparable from those of the transatlantic regions. In addition, last November, the House of Commons passed a motion which made clear that United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) Resolution 2758 neither established the sovereignty of the People’s Republic of China over Taiwan nor determined Taiwan’s status in the United Nations. The UK government also responded to the motion by publicly expressing for the first time its position on UNGA Resolution 2758, opposing any attempt to broaden the interpretation of the resolution to rewrite history. For this, on behalf of the people of Taiwan, I once again want to extend my deepest gratitude. Taiwan and the UK have the advantage of being highly complementary in the technology sector. In facing the restructuring of global supply chains and other international economic and trade developments, I believe that Taiwan and the UK are indispensable key partners for one another. I look forward to the UK publicly supporting Taiwan’s accession to the CPTPP so that together, we can create an economic and trade landscape in the Indo-Pacific characterized by shared prosperity and development. In closing, I wish Minister Alexander a pleasant and successful visit. And I hope he has the opportunity to visit Taiwan for personal travel in the future. Minister Alexander then delivered remarks, saying that it is a great personal honor to meet with everyone today to discuss further deepening the UK-Taiwan trade relationship and explore the many opportunities our two sides can pursue together. He mentioned that he traveled to Taiwan in 2022 when he was a private citizen, a visit he thoroughly enjoyed, so he is delighted to be back to see the strength of the UK-Taiwan relationship and the strengthening of that relationship. He said that relationship is built on mutual respect, democratic values, and a shared vision for open, resilient, and rules-based economic cooperation. As like-minded partners, he pointed out, our collaboration continues to grow across multiple sectors, and he is here today to further that momentum. Minister Alexander stated that on trade and investment, he is proud that this morning we signed the ETP Pillars on Investment, Digital Trade, Energy and Net Zero, which will provide a clear framework for our future cooperation and lay the foundation for expanded access and market-shaping engagement between our two economies. The minister said he believes that together with our annual trade talks, this partnership will help UK’s firms secure new commercial opportunities, improve regulatory alignment, and promote long-term investment in key growth areas, which in turn will also support Taiwan’s efforts to expand high-quality trade relationships with trusted partners. Minister Alexander said that President Lai’s promotion of the Five Trusted Industry Sectors and the UK’s recently published industrial and trade strategies are very well-aligned, as both cover clean energy and semiconductors as well as advanced manufacturing. He then provided an example, saying that both sides plan to invest in AI infrastructure and compute power-creating opportunities for great joint research in the future. By combining our strengths in these areas, he said, we can open the door to innovative collaboration and commercial success for both sides. He mentioned that yesterday he visited the Taiwan Space Agency, commenting that in sectors such as satellite technology, green energy, and cyber security, British expertise and trusted standards can provide meaningful solutions. Noting that President Lai spoke in his remarks of the broader challenge of peace and security in the region, Minister Alexander stated that the United Kingdom has, of course, also continued to affirm its commitment to peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, along with its G7 partners. The UK-Taiwan relationship is strategic, enduring, and growing, he stated, and they reaffirm and remain firm in their longstanding position and confident in their ability to work together to support both prosperity and resilience in both of our societies. Minister Alexander said that, as Taiwan looks to diversify capital and build global partnerships, they believe the UK represents a strong and ambitious investment destination, particularly for Taiwanese companies at the very forefront of robotics, clean tech, and advanced industry. He pointed out that the UK’s markets are stable, open, and aligned with Taiwan’s vision of a high-tech, sustainable future, adding that he looks forward to our discussion on how we can further deepen our cooperation across all of these areas and more. The delegation also included Martin Kent, His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner for Asia Pacific at the UK Department for Business and Trade. The delegation was accompanied to the Presidential Office by British Office Taipei Representative Ruth Bradley-Jones.   

    Details
    2025-06-27
    President Lai confers decoration on former Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association Chairman Ohashi Mitsuo
    On the morning of June 27, President Lai Ching-te conferred the Order of Brilliant Star with Grand Cordon upon former Chairman of the Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association Ohashi Mitsuo in recognition of his firm convictions and tireless efforts in promoting Taiwan-Japan exchanges. In remarks, President Lai stated that Chairman Ohashi cares for Taiwan like a family member, and expressed hope that Taiwan and Japan continue to deepen their partnership, bring about the early signing of an economic partnership agreement (EPA), and jointly build secure and stable non-red supply chains as we boost the resilience and competitiveness of our economies and jointly safeguard the values of freedom and democracy. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: Every meeting I have with Chairman Ohashi, with whom I have worked side by side for many years, is warm and friendly. I recall that when we met last year, Chairman Ohashi said that he often thinks about what Japan can do for Taiwan and what Taiwan can do for Japan, and that it is that mutual concern that makes us so close. This was a truly moving statement illustrating the relationship between Taiwan and Japan. Chairman Ohashi has also said numerous times that our bilateral relations may very well be the best in the entire world, and that in fact they may serve as a model to other countries. Indeed, Chairman Ohashi is himself an exemplary model for friendly relations between Taiwan and Japan. His spirit of always working tirelessly to promote Taiwan-Japan exchanges is truly admirable. Assuming the position of chairman of the Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association in 2011, he served during the terms of former Presidents Ma Ying-jeou and Tsai Ing-wen, continuously making positive contributions to Taiwan-Japan relations. Over these past 14 years, Taiwan and Japan have signed over 50 major agreements, spanning the economy and trade, fisheries, and taxes, among other areas. In 2017, the Taiwan-Japan Relations Association and the Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association underwent name changes, strengthening the essence and significance of Taiwan-Japan relations. These great achievements were all made possible thanks to the firm convictions and tireless efforts of Chairman Ohashi. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I am delighted to confer upon Chairman Ohashi the Order of Brilliant Star with Grand Cordon to express our deepest thanks for his outstanding contributions. Chairman Ohashi is not just a good friend of Taiwan, but someone who cares for Taiwan like a family member. When a major earthquake struck in 2016, he personally went to Tainan to assess the situation and meet with the city government. This outpouring of friendship and support across borders was deeply moving. As we look to the future, I hope that Taiwan and Japan can continue to deepen our partnership. In addition to bringing about the early signing of an EPA, I also hope that we can expand collaboration in key areas such as semiconductors, energy, and AI, continue building secure and stable non-red supply chains, and boost the resilience and competitiveness of our economies as well as peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific. As Chairman Ohashi has said, the close bilateral relationship between Taiwan and Japan is one the world can be proud of. I would like to thank him once again for his contributions to deepening Taiwan-Japan ties. Taiwan will continue to forge ahead side by side with Japan, jointly safeguarding the values of freedom and democracy and mutually advancing prosperous development. I wish Chairman Ohashi good health, happiness, peace, and success in his future endeavors, and invite him to return to Taiwan often to visit old friends. Chairman Ohashi then delivered remarks, first thanking President Lai for his kind words. He stated that the Taiwan-Japan relationship is not only worthy of praise; it can also serve as a superb model in the world for bilateral relations that is worthy of study by other countries. He added that this is the result of the collective efforts of President Lai as well as many other individuals. Chairman Ohashi said that the current international situation is rather severe, with wars and conflicts occurring between many neighboring countries. He said that there is a growing trend of nuclear weapon proliferation, emphasizing that use of such weapons would cause significant harm between nations. He also pointed out that some countries even use nuclear weapons as a threat, leading to instability and impacting the global situation. Chairman Ohashi said that neither Taiwan nor Japan possesses nuclear weapons, which is something to be proud of. That is why, he said, we can declare that a world without nuclear weapons is a peaceful world. He also mentioned that during his tenure as chairman of the Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association, he consistently upheld this principle in his work. Chairman Ohashi said that the mission of the World Federalist Movement (WFM) is to promote world peace. He said that the WFM has branches in countries worldwide, with the WFM of Japan being one of the most prominent, and that it also aspires to achieve the goal of world peace. Having served as chairman of the Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association for 14 years, he said, he is now stepping down from this role and will serve as the chairman of the WFM of Japan, aiming to promote peace in countries around the world. Chairman Ohashi said that both Taiwan and Japan can take pride in our friendly bilateral relationship, emphasizing that if the good relationship between Japan and Taiwan could be offered as an example to countries around the world, there would be no more wars. He expressed his sincere hope that under President Lai’s leadership, Taiwan and Japan can work together to jointly promote world peace. Also in attendance at the ceremony was Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association Taipei Office Chief Representative Katayama Kazuyuki.

    Details
    2025-05-20
    President Lai interviewed by Nippon Television and Yomiuri TV
    In a recent interview on Nippon Television’s news zero program, President Lai Ching-te responded to questions from host Mr. Sakurai Sho and Yomiuri TV Shanghai Bureau Chief Watanabe Masayo on topics including reflections on his first year in office, cross-strait relations, China’s military threats, Taiwan-United States relations, and Taiwan-Japan relations. The interview was broadcast on the evening of May 19. During the interview, President Lai stated that China intends to change the world’s rules-based international order, and that if Taiwan were invaded, global supply chains would be disrupted. Therefore, he said, Taiwan will strengthen its national defense, prevent war by preparing for war, and achieve the goal of peace. The president also noted that Taiwan’s purpose for developing drones is based on national security and industrial needs, and that Taiwan hopes to collaborate with Japan. He then reiterated that China’s threats are an international problem, and expressed hope to work together with the US, Japan, and others in the global democratic community to prevent China from starting a war. Following is the text of the questions and the president’s responses: Q: How do you feel as you are about to round out your first year in office? President Lai: When I was young, I was determined to practice medicine and save lives. When I left medicine to go into politics, I was determined to transform Taiwan. And when I was sworn in as president on May 20 last year, I was determined to strengthen the nation. Time flies, and it has already been a year. Although the process has been very challenging, I am deeply honored to be a part of it. I am also profoundly grateful to our citizens for allowing me the opportunity to give back to our country. The future will certainly be full of more challenges, but I will do everything I can to unite the people and continue strengthening the nation. That is how I am feeling now. Q: We are now coming up on the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, and over this period, we have often heard that conflict between Taiwan and the mainland is imminent. Do you personally believe that a cross-strait conflict could happen? President Lai: The international community is very much aware that China intends to replace the US and change the world’s rules-based international order, and annexing Taiwan is just the first step. So, as China’s military power grows stronger, some members of the international community are naturally on edge about whether a cross-strait conflict will break out. The international community must certainly do everything in its power to avoid a conflict in the Taiwan Strait; there is too great a cost. Besides causing direct disasters to both Taiwan and China, the impact on the global economy would be even greater, with estimated losses of US$10 trillion from war alone – that is roughly 10 percent of the global GDP. Additionally, 20 percent of global shipping passes through the Taiwan Strait and surrounding waters, so if a conflict breaks out in the strait, other countries including Japan and Korea would suffer a grave impact. For Japan and Korea, a quarter of external transit passes through the Taiwan Strait and surrounding waters, and a third of the various energy resources and minerals shipped back from other countries pass through said areas. If Taiwan were invaded, global supply chains would be disrupted, and therefore conflict in the Taiwan Strait must be avoided. Such a conflict is indeed avoidable. I am very thankful to Prime Minister of Japan Ishiba Shigeru and former Prime Ministers Abe Shinzo, Suga Yoshihide, and Kishida Fumio, as well as US President Donald Trump and former President Joe Biden, and the other G7 leaders, for continuing to emphasize at international venues that peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait are essential components for global security and prosperity. When everyone in the global democratic community works together, stacking up enough strength to make China’s objectives unattainable or to make the cost of invading Taiwan too high for it to bear, a conflict in the strait can naturally be avoided. Q: As you said, President Lai, maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait is also very important for other countries. How can war be avoided? What sort of countermeasures is Taiwan prepared to take to prevent war? President Lai: As Mr. Sakurai mentioned earlier, we are coming up on the 80th anniversary of the end of WWII. There are many lessons we can take from that war. First is that peace is priceless, and war has no winners. From the tragedies of WWII, there are lessons that humanity should learn. We must pursue peace, and not start wars blindly, as that would be a major disaster for humanity. In other words, we must be determined to safeguard peace. The second lesson is that we cannot be complacent toward authoritarian powers. If you give them an inch, they will take a mile. They will keep growing, and eventually, not only will peace be unattainable, but war will be inevitable. The third lesson is why WWII ended: It ended because different groups joined together in solidarity. Taiwan, Japan, and the Indo-Pacific region are all directly subjected to China’s threats, so we hope to be able to join together in cooperation. This is why we proposed the Four Pillars of Peace action plan. First, we will strengthen our national defense. Second, we will strengthen economic resilience. Third is standing shoulder to shoulder with the democratic community to demonstrate the strength of deterrence. Fourth is that as long as China treats Taiwan with parity and dignity, Taiwan is willing to conduct exchanges and cooperate with China, and seek peace and mutual prosperity. These four pillars can help us avoid war and achieve peace. That is to say, Taiwan hopes to achieve peace through strength, prevent war by preparing for war, keeping war from happening and pursuing the goal of peace. Q: Regarding drones, everyone knows that recently, Taiwan has been actively researching, developing, and introducing drones. Why do you need to actively research, develop, and introduce new drones at this time? President Lai: This is for two purposes. The first is to meet national security needs. The second is to meet industrial development needs. Because Taiwan, Japan, and the Philippines are all part of the first island chain, and we are all democratic nations, we cannot be like an authoritarian country like China, which has an unlimited national defense budget. In this kind of situation, island nations such as Taiwan, Japan, and the Philippines should leverage their own technologies to develop national defense methods that are asymmetric and utilize unmanned vehicles. In particular, from the Russo-Ukrainian War, we see that Ukraine has successfully utilized unmanned vehicles to protect itself and prevent Russia from unlimited invasion. In other words, the Russo-Ukrainian War has already proven the importance of drones. Therefore, the first purpose of developing drones is based on national security needs. Second, the world has already entered the era of smart technology. Whether generative, agentic, or physical, AI will continue to develop. In the future, cars and ships will also evolve into unmanned vehicles and unmanned boats, and there will be unmanned factories. Drones will even be able to assist with postal deliveries, or services like Uber, Uber Eats, and foodpanda, or agricultural irrigation and pesticide spraying. Therefore, in the future era of comprehensive smart technology, developing unmanned vehicles is a necessity. Taiwan, based on industrial needs, is actively planning the development of drones and unmanned vehicles. I would like to take this opportunity to express Taiwan’s hope to collaborate with Japan in the unmanned vehicle industry. Just as we do in the semiconductor industry, where Japan has raw materials, equipment, and technology, and Taiwan has wafer manufacturing, our two countries can cooperate. Japan is a technological power, and Taiwan also has significant technological strengths. If Taiwan and Japan work together, we will not only be able to safeguard peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and security in the Indo-Pacific region, but it will also be very helpful for the industrial development of both countries. Q: The drones you just described probably include examples from the Russo-Ukrainian War. Taiwan and China are separated by the Taiwan Strait. Do our drones need to have cross-sea flight capabilities? President Lai: Taiwan does not intend to counterattack the mainland, and does not intend to invade any country. Taiwan’s drones are meant to protect our own nation and territory. Q: Former President Biden previously stated that US forces would assist Taiwan’s defense in the event of an attack. President Trump, however, has yet to clearly state that the US would help defend Taiwan. Do you think that in such an event, the US would help defend Taiwan? Or is Taiwan now trying to persuade the US? President Lai: Former President Biden and President Trump have answered questions from reporters. Although their responses were different, strong cooperation with Taiwan under the Biden administration has continued under the Trump administration; there has been no change. During President Trump’s first term, cooperation with Taiwan was broader and deeper compared to former President Barack Obama’s terms. After former President Biden took office, cooperation with Taiwan increased compared to President Trump’s first term. Now, during President Trump’s second term, cooperation with Taiwan is even greater than under former President Biden. Taiwan-US cooperation continues to grow stronger, and has not changed just because President Trump and former President Biden gave different responses to reporters. Furthermore, the Trump administration publicly stated that in the future, the US will shift its strategic focus from Europe to the Indo-Pacific. The US secretary of defense even publicly stated that the primary mission of the US is to prevent China from invading Taiwan, maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific, and thus maintain world peace. There is a saying in Taiwan that goes, “Help comes most to those who help themselves.” Before asking friends and allies for assistance in facing threats from China, Taiwan must first be determined and prepared to defend itself. This is Taiwan’s principle, and we are working in this direction, making all the necessary preparations to safeguard the nation. Q: I would like to ask you a question about Taiwan-Japan relations. After the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011, you made an appeal to give Japan a great deal of assistance and care. In particular, you visited Sendai to offer condolences. Later, you also expressed condolences and concern after the earthquakes in Aomori and Kumamoto. What are your expectations for future Taiwan-Japan exchanges and development? President Lai: I come from Tainan, and my constituency is in Tainan. Tainan has very deep ties with Japan, and of course, Taiwan also has deep ties with Japan. However, among Taiwan’s 22 counties and cities, Tainan has the deepest relationship with Japan. I sincerely hope that both of you and your teams will have an opportunity to visit Tainan. I will introduce Tainan’s scenery, including architecture from the era of Japanese rule, Tainan’s cuisine, and unique aspects of Tainan society, and you can also see lifestyles and culture from the Showa era.  The Wushantou Reservoir in Tainan was completed by engineer Mr. Hatta Yoichi from Kanazawa, Japan and the team he led to Tainan after he graduated from then-Tokyo Imperial University. It has nearly a century of history and is still in use today. This reservoir, along with the 16,000-km-long Chianan Canal, transformed the 150,000-hectare Chianan Plain into Taiwan’s premier rice-growing area. It was that foundation in agriculture that enabled Taiwan to develop industry and the technology sector of today. The reservoir continues to supply water to Tainan Science Park. It is used by residents of Tainan, the agricultural sector, and industry, and even the technology sector in Xinshi Industrial Park, as well as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company. Because of this, the people of Tainan are deeply grateful for Mr. Hatta and very friendly toward the people of Japan. A major earthquake, the largest in 50 years, struck Tainan on February 6, 2016, resulting in significant casualties. As mayor of Tainan at the time, I was extremely grateful to then-Prime Minister Abe, who sent five Japanese officials to the disaster site in Tainan the day after the earthquake. They were very thoughtful and asked what kind of assistance we needed from the Japanese government. They offered to provide help based on what we needed. I was deeply moved, as former Prime Minister Abe showed such care, going beyond the formality of just sending supplies that we may or may not have actually needed. Instead, the officials asked what we needed and then provided assistance based on those needs, which really moved me. Similarly, when the Great East Japan Earthquake of 2011 or the later Kumamoto earthquakes struck, the people of Tainan, under my leadership, naturally and dutifully expressed their support. Even earlier, when central Taiwan was hit by a major earthquake in 1999, Japan was the first country to deploy a rescue team to the disaster area. On February 6, 2018, after a major earthquake in Hualien, former Prime Minister Abe appeared in a video holding up a message of encouragement he had written in calligraphy saying “Remain strong, Taiwan.” All of Taiwan was deeply moved. Over the years, Taiwan and Japan have supported each other when earthquakes struck, and have forged bonds that are family-like, not just neighborly. This is truly valuable. In the future, I hope Taiwan and Japan can be like brothers, and that the peoples of Taiwan and Japan can treat one another like family. If Taiwan has a problem, then Japan has a problem; if Japan has a problem, then Taiwan has a problem. By caring for and helping each other, we can face various challenges and difficulties, and pursue a brighter future. Q: President Lai, you just used the phrase “If Taiwan has a problem, then Japan has a problem.” In the event that China attempts to invade Taiwan by force, what kind of response measures would you hope the US military and Japan’s Self-Defense Forces take? President Lai: As I just mentioned, annexing Taiwan is only China’s first step. Its ultimate objective is to change the rules-based international order. That being the case, China’s threats are an international problem. So, I would very much hope to work together with the US, Japan, and others in the global democratic community to prevent China from starting a war – prevention, after all, is more important than cure.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Eritrea: Nakfa Sub-Zone Declares Free of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)

    Source: APO


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    As a result of a rigorous awareness campaign to eradicate harmful practices, Nakfa sub-zone has officially declared itself free of female genital mutilation (FGM).

    At the declaration event, Mr. Yakob Idris, administrator of the sub-zone, stated that the achievement is the result of the active and conscious participation of the public, government institutions, and national associations. He emphasized that maintaining this status is a shared responsibility.

    Religious leaders, noting that FGM has no connection to religious teachings, commended the initiative and called for integrated efforts and participation to ensure its sustainability.

    Mr. Rezene Feseha, chairman of the committee for the rights of children and women, said the declaration in Nakfa sub-zone reflects the coordinated efforts conducted at the regional level and called for continued active involvement by all.

    The event featured cultural and artistic performances to mark the occasion.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) Hydrocarbons Ministry to Lead High-Level Delegation at United States (U.S.)-Africa Energy Forum (USAEF) 2025

    Source: APO

    The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is intensifying its focus on upstream development and strategic U.S. partnerships ahead of the U.S.-Africa Energy Forum (USAEF) 2025 (www.USAfricaEnergy.com) taking place on August 6-7 in Houston. Leading the effort is a senior delegation from the Ministry of Hydrocarbons, delivering a clear message: the DRC is open for investment, with exploration and downstream development as top priorities. 

    As part of its hydrocarbons roadmap, the DRC is seeking partners to bring capital, technology, and expertise into its exploration efforts, with a focus on high-potential onshore and offshore blocks. Many of these basins – including the Cuvette Centrale and Coastal regions – remain underexplored. While the DRC currently produces around 18,000 barrels per day (bpd), the Ministry of Hydrocarbons is targeting a major production scale-up to 300,000 bpd. This growth is expected to be driven by new offshore discoveries and a forthcoming petroleum code designed to clarify investor terms and enable joint development ventures. 

    The Ministry is also seeking to engage U.S.-based downstream and petrochemicals companies as part of a broader push to expand value-added processing and strengthen domestic energy infrastructure. USAEF 2025 offers a key platform for direct dialogue with U.S. investors, paving the way for new deals, technical partnerships and cross-regional energy trade. Current initiatives include the development of a new oil terminal in Goma to stabilize fuel supply in the east, along with upgrades to fuel storage and distribution networks nationwide. These projects create strong opportunities for U.S. engineering, technology and EPC firms to support infrastructure modernization, modular refining and local capacity-building. 

    Under efforts to foster new technical partnerships and attract capital investment, the Ministry will hold meetings at USAEF 2025 with upstream operators, seismic and drilling service providers, and petrochemical firms interested in entering or expanding in the Congolese market. The DRC is positioning itself as a strategic partner for American energy companies seeking access to a frontier market with significant geological potential, a reform-minded government and growing regional demand for refined products and petrochemicals. 

    For tickets, sponsorship opportunities and more information, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com or visit www.USAfricaEnergy.com. Join us in Houston to connect with the leaders shaping Africa’s energy landscape and experience the momentum that drives ECP’s events worldwide. 

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

    Media files

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    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: RrOBO: World first demonstrates the future of nuclear clean-up is in safe hands

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    RrOBO: World first demonstrates the future of nuclear clean-up is in safe hands

    A team of robotics specialists have achieved a world first by fitting and operating a robotic arm inside an active nuclear glovebox at Sellafield.

    A world first demonstration of a robotic arm being operated inside a glovebox at Sellafield Ltd

    A key challenge at Sellafield is how to safely clean up and dispose of hundreds of redundant nuclear gloveboxes built up over decades of pioneering nuclear work.

    Some are up to 60 years old and in difficult to access places. They can still house contaminated pipework, cables, or sharp objects, and present a hazard to workers and the environment.

    But a breakthrough demonstration project at the site has proven that a robotic arm can be safely retrofitted to a nuclear glovebox and help remove the risk to operators.

    The Risk Reduction of Glovebox Operations (RrOBO) project is a partnership between Sellafield Ltd and AtkinsRéalis, in collaboration with Cavendish Nuclear and Taylor Kightley Engineering.

    It’s what’s known as an Active Demonstrator Project, where Sellafield Ltd identifies key clean up challenges and then collaborates with suppliers to design, test, install and demonstrate potential technological solutions.

    At its heart is the AtkinsRéalis Remote Glovebox Operations (ARGO) system that can be inserted into an existing glovebox and controlled remotely and safely by operators.

    After months of design work and off-site testing, the system was deployed into 2 gloveboxes at Sellafield’s MOX Active Demonstration Facility.

    While engineers operated the robotic system, operators provided critical interface support and feedback, ensuring learning was maximized to inform future developments.

    As a result, they proved the robot could successfully carry out a complex series of precise glovebox tasks while maintaining full containment integrity.

    This means it can now be deployed on other legacy gloveboxes at Sellafield to expand its range of uses and help accelerate decommissioning work across the site and other Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA) group sites.

    Nicholas Clarke, Sellafield Ltd’s remediation technology and innovation lead said:

    RrOBO has delivered outstanding results, completing months ahead of schedule and significantly under budget.

    It demonstrates the viability of robotic glovebox operations and shows what we can achieve when we enable our teams to collaborate, think freely and innovate together.

    And we’ve gained valuable insight into how this technology can be scaled up to support the wider Sellafield mission and help other nuclear sites across the UK and globally.

    Robert Marwood, AtkinsRéalis’ head of robotics and technology, said:

    Removing hands from gloveboxes is a key challenge for the nuclear industry and we’re proud to be helping to drive change and improve safety.

    This collaboration is a great demonstration of how solutions from other industries can be integrated into the nuclear sector in a lean and agile manner.

    By driving innovation, we can make nuclear operations safer and more efficient.

    Kate Canning, head of research and development at the NDA, said:

    RrOBO is a fantastic example of using robotic technologies to reduce risks, eliminate manual handling hazards and enhance efficiency.

    The demonstrator project has shown the real potential of the technology to be transferred more widely across NDA group.

    Further reading

    Nuclear gloveboxes case study

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: German companies pledge to invest €631bn to boost economic confidence

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    BERLIN, July 22 (Xinhua) — More than 60 leading German companies, including Siemens and Deutsche Bank, pledged on Monday to invest 631 billion euros (735 billion U.S. dollars) in the country by 2028 as part of a joint effort to restore investor confidence, German newspaper Handelsblatt reported.

    The initiative, called “Made for Germany,” will be formally presented to German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil later on Monday. It includes capital expenditure, research and development costs, and commitments from international investors.

    The announcement comes as Germany seeks to reverse sluggish economic growth and attract private capital, helped in part by recent changes in fiscal policy and the creation of a special fund for infrastructure investment.

    High energy prices and structural problems are reducing the competitiveness of Germany’s industry, prompting growing calls for deeper reforms.

    “We need political courage for structural change, and decisive steps must follow,” Siemens CEO Roland Busch told the Handelsblatt newspaper. “But we also need companies that believe in Germany and are willing to invest. All this must come together quickly to gain momentum.”

    Companies involved in the initiative plan to lobby the government for faster approval procedures for infrastructure projects and tougher measures to address labor shortages, he added. –0–

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Nuclear gloveboxes

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Case study

    Nuclear gloveboxes

    Gloveboxes have been an intrinsic part of nuclear work since the birth of the UK industry. They’ve kept people safe and helped drive nuclear research and development for decades.

    A nuclear glovebox

    We have more than 700 gloveboxes at Sellafield, and they help tell the story of the pioneering past, present and future missions on our site.

    What is a glovebox?

    A nuclear glovebox is essentially a sealed container with built in gloves that allow operators to handle radioactive materials safely.

    They vary in size, design and purpose but are commonly made up of a steel frame and panels made of metal or Perspex.

    Nuclear gloveboxes on the Sellafield site

    Long PVC gloves are built into the box so operators can safely handle nuclear materials without risking contamination. They may also wear additional lead-lined, heat resistant or cut resistant gloves depending on the type of work they are doing.

    The atmosphere inside the box is controlled and ventilated, and materials are placed inside via an entry port to maintain containment.

    A key part of our clean-up mission at Sellafield is the dismantling and disposal of redundant gloveboxes that were used for historic defence, research, reprocessing, and fuel fabrication operations.

    Some are up to 60 years old and in difficult to access places. They can still house contaminated pipework, vessels, cables, valves, or sharp objects that aren’t always visible.

    Removing, dismantling and disposing of redundant gloveboxes presents a unique decommissioning challenge but we’re making real progress and learning lessons that can help other nuclear sites.

    Analytical Services

    Our analytical services laboratories have provided a valuable service to the site for 70 years, with the first built to support defence and reprocessing operations in the 1950s.

    Some contain redundant gloveboxes that take up space and pose a potential hazard to workers and the environment.

    In September 2024 we successfully removed the first contaminated glovebox from of our oldest and most challenging labs.

    A redundant glovebox in Sellafield’s analytical services laboratories

    Operators wearing air-fed suits and respirators worked to safely disconnect and cut up the redundant glovebox before sorting it and packaging it for export to a modern waste store.

    And in May 2025 we reduced the hazard further by successfully removing a second glovebox, with eleven more to go.

    Glovebox work is also at the forefront of the breakthroughs we’re making in applying robotic solutions to nuclear problems.

    Sellafield is a test bed for some of the most innovative nuclear technologies in the world and a hub of collaboration with industry, supply chains, and academia.

    We’re continually exploring how we can use robots and AI to keep people safe, enhance the work they do, and speed up the delivery of our decommissioning mission.

    RrOBO

    The Risk-reduction Of glovebox Operations (RrOBO) project is a collaboration between Sellafield and AtkinsRealis with transformational potential for glovebox operations.

    In 2023 we demonstrated that a Kinova robotic arm in a containment sleeve could be retrofitted to a glovebox and equipped with a range of tools and sensory equipment to aid operations.

    RoOBO deployed in a redundant glovebox

    Operators proved they could control the arm remotely to perform a range of tasks including material and equipment moves, swabbing, decontamination, and radiometric scans.

    As a result, RrOBO was successfully deployed to decommission a redundant glovebox in Sellafield’s MOX Demonstration Facility in November 2024; the first active deployment of this technology anywhere in the world.

    The UK nuclear industry requires thousands of new gloveboxes to support current and future missions in the decommissioning and defence sectors.

    We’ll need a pipeline of skilled glovebox operators for many years to come, but it’s difficult work requiring high levels of dexterity and consistent standards.

    To help meet this demand, Sellafield is playing a central role in training and equipping the next generation of glovebox operators.

    The Glovebox Training Facility

    The UK ARC programme is a partnership between the UK government and nuclear industry that works to ensure the UK has the skills it needs to manage special nuclear materials now and in the future.

    In 2023 it opened the Glovebox Training Facility at Sellafield so learners from around the country can come together to develop their glovebox skills in a safe and controlled environment.

    A glovebox operator being trained at The Glovebox Training Facility

    This approach has significant benefits in reducing the need for on-plant training and providing a standardised approach across the sector, improving quality and reducing training time by months.

    From April 2025, over 170 glovebox operators have been trained there, and in 2025 Sellafield Ltd took over responsibility for the Facility.

    Sellafield has an important clean-up mission with a long future. We’re also the custodians of most of the UK’s nuclear waste and over 140 tonnes of civil separated plutonium – the largest stockpile in the world.

    It’s a mission of national significance so we’re working with global experts to build the new generation of plants and facilities we’ll need to support the UK nuclear industry and keep the site safe for the next century.

    And just as they did for the earliest nuclear pioneers, gloveboxes will continue to play a key role in keeping future nuclear workers safe.

    The Sellafield Product and Residue Store Retreatment Plant (SRP)

    SRP is one of the largest and most important construction projects on the Sellafield site today.

    Once operational in the 2030s, it will receive and repackage plutonium to ensure it can be stored safely and securely for another 100 years.

    In May 2025 the project achieved a major milestone when the roof of the main building was finally sealed, making it watertight and ready for internal fit-out.

    The Sellafield Product and Residue Store Retreatment Plant (SRP) on the Sellafield site

    The next phase of the project will include the installation of an array of glovebox systems, most of which will be automated and monitored remotely.

    The gloveboxes are currently being manufactured and tested at an off-site facility and the first will be installed in 2026.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Oxfam reaction to the communiqué of the third meeting of G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors under South African presidency

    Source: Oxfam –

    Reacting to the communique issued at the conclusion of 3rd G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors (FMCBG) meeting under the South African presidency, Nkateko Chauke, Interim Executive Director at Oxfam South Africa said:

    “Although the G20 acknowledged the need to reform the international tax system, it ignored the elephant in the room: the super-rich continue to evade taxes through legal loopholes and tax havens. Meanwhile governments in Africa and other low-income countries are forced to institute regressive taxes like VAT to raise more revenues, hence fuelling inequality and worsening poverty.

    “A fair global tax system must start by supporting the efforts of UN Tax Convention and ending the veto power of tax havens.

    “As droughts, floods, and climate devastation threaten the Global South and beyond, the G20’s inaction is a betrayal. They must urgently deliver on the Baku-to-Belém roadmap by securing public, grant-based climate finance, led by the richest polluters. Their focus on private finance and carbon markets dangerously evades responsibility, burdening the poorest. The money is there—it’s time to tax the super-rich and fossil fuel excessive profits.

    “We urge the G20 to follow the South African G20 Presidency’s call for solidarity, equality and sustainability. That includes backing bold proposals like taxing the super-rich, as supported in the Brazilian G20 Leaders’ Declaration and the recent UN Conference on Financing for Development in Seville. Fair taxation is essential to fight inequality and fund public services.”
     

    Oxfam’s latest report Africa’s inequality crisis and the rise of the super-rich reveals that at present, just four of Africa’s richest billionaires hold more wealth than half of the continent’s population combined.

    The report finds that the richest 5% in Africa hold nearly $4 trillion in wealth — more than double the combined wealth of the remaining 95%.

    It shows that an extra tax of 1% on wealth and 10% on income of Africa’s richest 1% could raise $66 billion annually — enough to close the funding gaps for free quality education and universal access to electricity.

    Despite worsening poverty, African governments remain the least committed globally to tackling inequality, and many are cutting spending on health, education and social protection to repay debt.

    Read the full report here.
     

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI China: Beijing E-Town to accelerate development of data industry

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

    Beijing E-Town recently released a package of measures on accelerating the high-quality development of the data industry.

    According to the measures, the area will explore the establishment of an inclusive, prudent, and flexible regulatory model regarding data in fields such as autonomous driving, healthcare, financial consumption, and industrial manufacturing. It will promote the implementation of a liability exemption mechanism and strive to expand the boundaries of compliant data use.

    At the same time, efforts will be made to build a high-standard public data training base, explore a joint government-enterprise model for developing high-quality datasets, support enterprises in actively seeking authorization to operate central and local public data, and explore pricing mechanisms for public data authorization in areas such as autonomous driving and aerospace.

    To provide support for enterprises, the latest measures aim to establish a tiered subsidy system that ensures businesses’ broad accessibility to financing while focusing on key sectors.

    Specifically, an annual fund of 100 million yuan (US$14 million) in “data vouchers” will directly subsidize the purchase of data products, meeting the data usage needs of enterprises of all sizes. Up to 10 million yuan and 20 million yuan in support will be provided for data labeling service platforms and data circulation infrastructure, respectively, targeting key bottlenecks. For enterprises engaged in cross-border data compliance and related activities, subsidies ranging from 500,000 yuan to 1 million yuan will be offered to address critical challenges in the marketization of data as a production factor.

    The measures also aim at developing an industry cluster area. To foster the cluster, Beijing E-Town will support the development of data enterprise incubators and the establishment of shared spaces such as exhibition centers, co-working spaces, and roadshow centers. 

    Beijing E-Town will also build high-speed information networks by accelerating 5G signal enhancement and upgrading to 10-gigabit optical networks, as well as supporting the renovation and upgrading of communication infrastructure such as urban optical fiber networks. Additionally, inclusive and open computing power services will be provided, along with support for the transformation and upgrading of existing data centers.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Expansion of Shingrix® vaccine eligibility to all those who are severely immunosuppressed and aged 18 years and over letter

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Correspondence

    Expansion of Shingrix® vaccine eligibility to all those who are severely immunosuppressed and aged 18 years and over letter

    Information relating to the expansion of Shingrix® vaccine eligibility to all those who are severely immunosuppressed and aged 18 years and over.

    Documents

    Shingles vaccination programme: expansion of Shingrix® vaccine eligibility to all those who are severely immunosuppressed and aged 18 years and over

    HTML

    Annexe A: detailed information and guidance for healthcare professionals

    HTML

    Annexe B: supporting programme resources

    HTML

    Details

    From 1 September 2025 eligibility for the shingles vaccination programme will change to allow all severely immunosuppressed people aged 18 years and over to receive the shingles vaccine. This letter and annexes provides information about the forthcoming change.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 July 2025

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    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Check your agent’s name

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Check your agent’s name

    Make sure your agent’s name in our system matches your contract.

    If you want to use an agent to manage your business rates, you need to appoint them in our Check and Challenge service. 

    But if the agent’s name in our service does not match the name on your contract, you should be cautious. You should tell us by contacting agentstandards@voa.gov.uk.  

    You can also find out how long an agent has been using their current business name. You can get information about a company for free. 

    Some rogue agents may change their name often. 

    Our  VOA agent standards set out clear expectations for agents regarding:  

    • their behaviour   

    • their professional practice   

    • the service they provide to their customers   

    We take breaches of our agent standards very seriously. We will always take action if we substantiate a breach of the standards.  

    You should be cautious of any agent who:   

    • tries to pressure you to make a decision or sign a contract   

    • says they are acting on behalf of the VOA or forwards emails they claim are from the VOA   

    • demands large sums of money up front   

    • makes claims about ‘unclaimed credits’ or similar   

    Remember – you don’t have to use an agent to manage your business rates.   

    You can challenge your rateable value through our online service. This service is free to use.   

    If you want an agent to manage your business rates, use our checklist to choose an agent. Don’t let an agent choose you.  

    Using an agent who is a member of a professional body may provide extra reassurance as they will be subject to that body’s rules and regulations. The Institute of Revenues, Rating, Valuation, Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors and Rating Surveyors’ Association have published joint standards that their members should follow. 

    We also have guidance on staying safe from scammers.   

    We collect evidence of poor agent behaviour and practices in the course of our work. This evidence allows us to proactively address issues or concerns.   

    If you are concerned about poor behaviour by agents, send any evidence to agentstandards@voa.gov.uk. 

    We cannot advise you on contractual issues you may have with any agent. You should contact the Citizens Advice Consumer Service. They have a helpline you can call on 0808 223 1133, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm. 

    If you think a business has broken the law or acted unfairly, you can also report them to Trading Standards via Citizens Advice. 

    If you believe you are a victim of fraud, you can make a report to Action Fraud.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New Executive Chair to strengthen government’s plan to unleash life sciences for a healthier, wealthier Britain

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    New Executive Chair to strengthen government’s plan to unleash life sciences for a healthier, wealthier Britain

    Steve Bates OBE appointed to help champion research and innovation and the use of technology to transform health and grow the UK economy.

    • Industry leader Steve Bates OBE appointed as Executive Chair for the Office for Life Sciences.
    • Office for Life Sciences to report into Health, Science and Business departments, recognising the industry’s importance to the health and growth missions in the Plan for Change.
    • Appointment is immediate action on Life Sciences Sector Plan pledge to strengthen links between sector and government.

    Industry leader Steve Bates OBE has today (Tuesday 22 July) been appointed as Executive Chair of the Office for Life Sciences, the cross-Government unit that champions research, innovation and the use of technology to transform health and grow the economy across the UK.

    The Office for Life Sciences (OLS) will report directly into the Business Secretary in addition to the Health Secretary and Technology Secretary, recognising that driving economic growth and investment in this key sector will be a crucial part of the OLS agenda in support of the Plan for Change.

    The moves show the government is taking immediate action to deliver the Life Sciences Sector Plan, the ambitious blueprint for unleashing the UK’s circa £100 billion life sciences sector as a force for economic growth and bettering the nation’s health, in aid of the Plan for Change. Forming one of the 8 core pillars of the modern Industrial Strategy, the Plan sets out the government’s commitment to deepening its ties with the life sciences sector, and strengthening the Office for Life Sciences to do so.

    It builds on the positive momentum coming from recent successes for OLS, such as the recent £1 billion investment deal with BioNTech which the Office was instrumental in delivering, and backing for groundbreaking research like that supported by Our Future Health and UK Biobank, as well as its role in the up to £600 million investment to deliver a Health Data Research Service that will be unmatched globally – bringing the power of data to bear to unlock breakthroughs in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases.

    Steve Bates is a recognised industry figurehead, having led the UK BioIndustry Association as CEO since 2012. He sits on the UK Life Sciences Council, and was a founder member of the UK Government’s Vaccine Taskforce. Steve was made OBE for services to innovation in 2017 and became a Fellow of the Academy of Medical Sciences in 2020.

    Steve Bates OBE said:

    The UK is great at life sciences. Great science, growth finance, world leading entrepreneurs, agile regulators, and key health data assets, all network here within a sector focused industrial strategy.

    I know we can deliver global health outcomes and UK economic growth because we did so through the Vaccine Taskforce during COVID. I look forward to selling the sector’s great story to the globe. It’s a privilege to help life science businesses start, grow, scale and renew in the UK ecosystem to deliver economic growth, prosperity and health.

    Science and Technology Secretary Peter Kyle said:

    The life sciences sector plays a unique role, as a catalyst for both economic prosperity, and better health outcomes for people across the UK. Its ongoing success will be pivotal to both our Plan for Change, and our modern Industrial Strategy.

    It is only right that we draw upon the nation’s best talent and expertise to push this sector on to even greater heights, and to that end I am delighted that Steve will be joining us in these endeavours.

    Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting said:

    We’re turning the UK into a life sciences powerhouse and harnessing the genius of our country’s greatest scientific minds.

    I know that Steve will bolster this mission and help make Britain the envy of the world when it comes to medical innovation.

    Under his leadership, I’m confident the Office for Life Sciences will continue to drive groundbreaking research and fulfil the Plan for Change’s goal to transform healthcare for patients across the country.

    Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said:

    We want to make the UK a life sciences superpower. That’s why we earmarked it as a priority sector in our modern Industrial Strategy, which sets out how we will back the industry to keep it at the forefront of global innovation.

    This single front door for industry to engage with government will be key to achieving our life sciences mission, as will appointing talented leaders like Steve – boosting the sector to deliver on our Plan for Change to grow the economy.

    The Office for Life Sciences is a Directorate of 120 civil servants, which drives policy and delivery in the Life Sciences sector, supporting the government’s ambitions on economic growth and improved health that sit at the heart of the Plan for Change. Currently overseen by the Health Secretary and Technology Secretary, it will now also have more formalised links into the Department for Business and Trade to support the government’s Industrial Strategy.

    In his new role, Bates will act as an ambassador both domestically and internationally for the UK life sciences sector. He will work across government and the wider public sector to ensure engagement with industry around policy and investment happens productively and at pace, working closely with all 3 Secretaries of State, providing support and expert advice as required. 

    The UK is already a global leader in life sciences, with the sector worth around £100 billion to the economy, and employing around 300,000 people. These moves show the government’s determination to immediately deliver on its goals for the sector, as laid out in the Life Sciences Sector Plan. Developed in close coordination with the Government’s 10 Year Health Plan, the Plan is a vision for doubling down on the sector’s strengths – turning cutting-edge research into real-world results: new treatments, faster diagnoses, and more lives saved. It’s about making sure breakthroughs happen here – and stay here – creating jobs, improving lives in every part of the country, and driving growth.

    Notes to editors

    Steve Bates’ appointment will further strengthen our expert leadership in life sciences, working with OLS Director Rosalind Campion.

    DSIT media enquiries

    Email press@dsit.gov.uk

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

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Ice Arena and Swimming Pool: A Unique Large Sports Complex Built in Yuzhnoye Butovo

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    A large sports complex “Maximum” was built in Yuzhnoye Butovo. It is located at the address: Ostafyevskaya Street, Building 21. This was reported by the Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Urban Development Policy and Construction Vladimir Efimov.

    “The two-story sports complex “Maximum” with a total area of 8.75 thousand square meters was built at the expense of the city budget. This is the first district facility with an ice rink and a swimming pool, which was built under the “Sport of Moscow” program in the South-West Administrative District. The arena was equipped with an energy-absorbing hockey board that meets the requirements of the International Ice Hockey Federation. The room for the ice resurfacing machine was equipped with fire gates, a bunker for collecting ice chips and a water treatment system. The sports complex was designed using BIM technologies, and the stages of the project implementation were carried out using modern digital systems,” said Vladimir Efimov.

    The first floor of the sports complex houses an ice arena for ice hockey training, district competitions without spectators, and mass skating. There is also an inventory room where spare board glass, removable covers, and protective nets are stored. Four team locker rooms for 25 people with shower blocks are equipped for athletes. In addition, the complex houses medical, technical, and administrative premises.

    “The sports complex houses a general fitness room, a large pool for recreational swimming, and a pool for teaching children to swim. The pool area includes a double-height space, creating a feeling of spaciousness. The ceiling height here is 13.6 meters. This is one of the first city facilities where a drowning warning system was installed. The modern sports complex is also adapted for use by people with limited mobility,” said the head of the capital’s Department of Civil Construction.

    Alexey Alexandrov.

    The building’s facades are done in harmonious beige tones and decorated with metal perforated cassettes. A park was landscaped on the adjacent territory, and parking for bicycles and cars was equipped. 11 parking spaces are intended for people with limited mobility. The sports complex is located next to residential areas, so it will be popular with fans of an active lifestyle.

    On the instructions of Sergei Sobyanin, the construction of sports infrastructure facilities in the city is under special control. Chairman of the capital’s State Construction Supervision Committee Anton Slobodchikov emphasized that during construction, the department’s inspectors checked the quality of the work performed and the materials used. Based on the results of the final inspection, the committee issued a conclusion on the compliance of the facility with the design documentation, and then the developer received permission to put it into operation.

    Previously a sports complex “Maximum” opened by Sergei Sobyanin.

    The construction of social facilities in Moscow corresponds to the goals and initiatives of the national project “Infrastructure for life”.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Israeli settlers beat to death 2 Palestinians in latest lynchings

    BEARING WITNESS: By Cole Martin in occupied West Bank

    Two young Palestinians were beaten to death on their land by Israeli settlers in the occupied West Bank on Friday.

    A funeral was held on Sunday for Sayfollah “Saif” Mussalet, 20, and Muhammad Shalabi, 23, who were brutally killed by a large group of settlers in an attack that left more than 30 other Palestinians injured.

    Mussalet died from his wounds as settlers attacked medical responders, and Shalabi’s body was recovered later that evening, having reportedly bled to death from a gunshot wound while ambulances and rescuers were blocked by Israeli military.

    Settlers continued to roam the Palestinian farmland freely for hours.

    Both young men were from the neighbouring Mazra’a Sharqiya village, and Saif was an American citizen visiting loved ones and friends over summer. His family released a statement calling his death an “unimaginable nightmare and an injustice that no family should ever have to face”.

    They said he was a “beloved member of his community . . . a brother and a son [and] a kind, hard-working, and deeply-respected young man.”

    Saif built a widely-loved business in Tampa, Florida, and was known for his generosity, ambition, and connection to his Palestinian heritage.

    Following news of his death an overwhelming number of locals gathered at his store to share their grief and anger.

    Frequent atrocities
    Such lynchings have become a frequent atrocity across the West Bank, as settler gangs are repeatedly emboldened by the Israeli government, police, and military who protect and often facilitate violence against Palestinian communities.

    Two settlers were reportedly detained following the attacks, but released again within hours.

    Between 2005-2020, 91 percent of Palestinian cases filed with police were closed without indictment, according to the Israeli human rights organisation B’tselem, and settlers undergo trial with full legal rights and higher lenience in Israeli civil courts.

    By contrast, Palestinians are tried in Israeli military courts, established in violation of the fourth Geneva Convention and largely considered corrupt for maintaining a 95 percent conviction rate (Military Court Watch).

    Additionally, more than 3600 Palestinians are currently held in Israeli captivity without charge or trial, with all detainees facing an increase in documented physical, psychological, and sexual abuse — including children.

    A funeral was held for the young men on Sunday in Mazra’a Sharqiya village, with thousands in attendance. The killings continue a systemic pattern which alongside military incursions, has seen 153 Palestinians killed by Israeli forces in the West Bank since the beginning of 2025 (OCHA).

    UN resolution
    A UN resolution last September reaffirmed the illegality of Israel’s presence in the occupied Palestinian territories, demanding a total and unconditional withdrawal within a year.

    Ten months on, settler attacks have escalated in frequency and severity, settlement expansion has rapidly increased, and numerous Palestinian villages have been forcibly displaced after months of sustained violence.

    Communities across the West Bank are facing erasure, and as the death toll climbs pressure continues to grow for the New Zealand government to enforce stronger political sanctions, including the entire opposition uniting behind the Green Party’s Unlawful Occupation of Palestine Sanctions Bill.

    Cole Martin is an independent New Zealand photojournalist based in the Middle East and a contributor to Asia Pacific Report.

    Mourners pay their respects to the two young Palestinians killed by illegal settlers. Image: Cole Martin

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Secondary legislation access to be improved

    Source: New Zealand Government

    A bill to make it easier to find and comply with the law and to digitise government services by improving access to secondary legislation has passed its first reading, Attorney-General Judith Collins says.

    “Secondary legislation includes regulations and many types of orders, rules, exemptions, bylaws, notices and instruments with many different names,” Ms Collins says.

    “The Legislation Amendment Bill promotes high-quality legislation for New Zealand that is easy to find, use and understand.

    “Currently most secondary legislation is drafted and published by agencies and is difficult to access. In fact, no one knows how much there is, with estimates ranging from 7500-10,000 published by about 100 government and non-government agencies, plus every local authority.

    “Some is published on the agency’s website, some is published in the New Zealand Gazette or in newspapers or, sometimes, it appears to not be publicly available at all.

    “These variable publication arrangements undermine the rule of law, increase compliance costs, hamper digital government and impair scrutiny of delegated law-making powers.”

    “The bill will standardise publication practices, making it a requirement that secondary legislation drafted by agencies is published on the agency website or another approved internet site.”

    Alongside the Bill, the Parliamentary Counsel Office is redeveloping the official New Zealand legislation website using data collection technology to find, index and link agency-published secondary legislation and make it searchable from the website.

    A public demo of the new legislation website is available for users to test and already includes a lot of agency-published secondary legislation. 

    “This will turn the website into a one-stop shop for legislation matters,” Ms Collins says.

    “My vision is that the public will soon only need to visit one website to find all New Zealand legislation and related information.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Top African and Global Voices in Technology to Speak at Africa Tech Festival 2025

    Source: APO – Report:

    .

    Africa Tech Festival (www.AfricaTechFestival.com), the longest running and most influential tech event on the continent, has announced the first wave of 25 headline speakers for its 2025 edition, bringing together influential voices from global tech, government, and business who are driving the growth and transformation of Africa’s digital economy.

    The 2025 speaker line-up features some of the most influential voices in global technology and African business leadership. Among them is Bernardo Mariano Junior, Assistant Secretary-General and Chief Information Technology Officer at the United Nations, who brings a global governance perspective to digital development. Mark Elliott, President for Africa at Mastercard, will offer insights into advancing inclusive finance across the continent. Representing the frontier of artificial intelligence, Emmanuel Lubanzadio, Senior Director and Head of Africa at OpenAI, will contribute to conversations around AI adoption and policy readiness in African markets.

    Also speaking is Odunayo Eweniyi, a prominent tech entrepreneur and investor, serving as Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of PiggyVest and General Partner at First Capital, who will share perspectives on fintech growth and funding in Africa. From the telecoms and enterprise space, Tumi Chamayou, Chief Enterprise Business Officer at MTN South Africa, and Ravi Bhat, Chief Technology and Solutions Officer at Microsoft Africa, will explore enterprise innovation and the role of strategic partnerships in enabling digital infrastructure.

    They will be joined by senior decision-makers from across the public and private sectors, including technology and strategy executives from African Bank, Transnet, Cell C, Telkom, the Department of Public Service and Administration of South Africa, and Hewlett Packard Enterprise. Together, these leaders represent a broad spectrum of industries and expertise, united by a common goal: to drive forward Africa’s digital transformation.

    Africa Tech Festival 2025 will be held in Cape Town from 11 to 13 November. The conference will feature a structured programme built around four core tracks: AfricaCom, AfricaTech, AfricaIgnite, and The AI Summit Cape Town. Each track is designed to address key areas of technological advancement and policy development across the continent. This year’s agenda is also framed by four central themes: Responsible Innovation, Inclusive Investment, Connectivity for Development, and Policy Harmonisation. These themes reflect the Festival’s commitment to providing a platform for examining the challenges and opportunities shaping Africa’s digital economy.

    “We’re excited to share a speaker roster that truly represents the diversity of experience shaping Africa’s tech future,” said Kadi Diallo, Portfolio Manager for Africa Tech Festival. “These are individuals who are actively working to improve systems, close gaps, and build digital infrastructure that works for everyone.”

    “This year, you’ll also notice a bold new look and feel as we unveil our refreshed branding. It marks the start of a new era for the Africa Tech Festival—one that reflects the scale, ambition, and innovation of the continent’s thriving tech ecosystem.”

    Following the success of 2024, Africa Tech Festival will continue to provide in-depth discussions on national digital strategies, economic growth, infrastructure, and public-private collaboration. Although a formal partnership with the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies (DCDT) is still under consideration, last year’s engagement with senior government officials led to meaningful policy dialogue. Now in its third decade, the Festival remains a key platform for shaping Africa’s digital transformation through informed debate, investment, and strategic partnerships.

    Further programme details and additional speakers will be announced in the weeks ahead.

    Registration for Africa Tech Festival 2025 is now open and can be completed via the official portal here (https://apo-opa.co/450ROWS).

    – on behalf of Africa Tech Festival.

    About Africa Tech Festival:   
    Now in its 28th edition, Africa Tech Festival 2025 will take place from 11 to 13 November 2025 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC), bringing together over 15,000 technology leaders, policymakers, investors, startups, and visionaries. The festival encompasses four anchor events:

    • AfricaCom – The continent’s largest telecoms and connectivity event
    • AfricaTech – The hub for technology, innovation, and enterprise growth
    • AfricaIgnite – Driving growth and impact in Africa’s startup ecosystem
    • The AI Summit Cape Town – Where commercial AI comes to life
       

    With over 500 speakers, 300 exhibitors, and multiple networking opportunities, Africa Tech Festival remains the largest and most influential tech event on the continent.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: July 2025 euro area bank lending survey

    Source: European Central Bank

    22 July 2025

    • Credit standards for firm loans remained broadly unchanged
    • Credit standards tightened slightly for housing loans and more markedly for consumer credit
    • Housing loan demand continued to increase strongly, while demand for firm loans remained weak

    According to the July 2025 bank lending survey (BLS), euro area banks reported broadly unchanged credit standards – banks’ internal guidelines or loan approval criteria – for loans or credit lines to enterprises in the second quarter of 2025 (net percentage of banks of -1%; Chart 1). Banks also reported a slight net tightening of credit standards for loans to households for house purchase (net percentage of 2%) and a more pronounced net tightening for consumer credit and other lending to households (net percentage of 11%). For credit standards on loans to firms, the net percentage was smaller than banks had expected in the previous survey (a net tightening of 5%) and follows the small net tightening in credit standards seen in the first quarter (3%). Perceived risks related to the economic outlook continued to contribute to a tightening of credit standards, whereas competition had an easing impact. For the most part, banks reported no specific additional tightening impact on their credit standards related to geopolitical uncertainty and trade tensions, although they intensified their monitoring of the most exposed sectors and firms. For loans to households for house purchase, the net tightening followed the easing of credit standards seen in the first quarter (-7%) but was lower than banks anticipated (7%). For both housing loans and consumer credit, changes in risk perceptions and the risk tolerance of banks were the main drivers of the net tightening of credit standards. For the third quarter of 2025, banks expect credit standards to remain unchanged for firms (0%), ease slightly for housing loans (-3%) and tighten further for consumer credit (4%).

    Banks’ overall terms and conditions – the actual terms and conditions agreed in loan contracts – eased for loans to firms, remained unchanged for housing loans and tightened for consumer credit.

    In the second quarter of 2025, euro area banks reported a slight net increase in demand for loans or credit lines to firms (Chart 2), with demand remaining weak overall. This followed a small net decrease in loan demand in the previous quarter (-3%) and was broadly in line with banks’ expectations in that quarter (4%). Loan demand was supported by declining interest rates, but dampened by global uncertainty and trade tensions, while the impact of fixed investment and inventories and working capital was neutral. Demand for housing loans continued to increase substantially in net terms. Declining interest rates, improved housing market prospects and, to a lesser extent, consumer confidence, were the main drivers of the continued increase in housing loan demand. Demand for consumer credit and other lending to households increased only slightly, with declining interest rates and other factors offsetting negative contributions from lower consumer confidence and spending on durable goods. In the third quarter of 2025, banks expect a net increase in loan demand from firms (net percentage of 7%), a further substantial net increase for housing loans (net percentage of 21%) and broadly unchanged demand for consumer credit (1%).

    Euro area banks’ access to retail and wholesale funding improved slightly in the second quarter of 2025, driven by short-term retail funding, money markets and debt securities, and remained broadly unchanged for securitisations. Over the next three months, banks expect access to these funding sources to remain broadly unchanged.

    Euro area banks reported that non-performing loan (NPL) ratios and other credit quality indicators had a net tightening impact on their credit standards across all loan categories, as well as a net tightening impact on terms and conditions for loans to firms and consumer credit. Banks expect these trends to continue in the third quarter for loans to firms and consumer credit, driven mostly by pressures related to supervisory or regulatory requirements.

    Changes in credit standards and loan demand were heterogeneous across the main economic sectors in the first half of 2025. Credit standards tightened in commercial real estate (CRE), manufacturing, wholesale and retail trade and, to a lesser extent, in construction, while they eased slightly across most services (excluding financial services and real estate) and in residential real estate (RRE). Banks reported a net decrease in loan demand for construction, manufacturing, CRE and wholesale and retail trade, and net increases in RRE and in the transport, accommodation and food services sectors. For the second half of 2025, in most of the main economic sectors, banks expect either broadly unchanged or easier credit standards and overall small changes in loan demand. The exception is RRE, for which banks expect a further moderate increase.

    Banks continue to take firms’ climate performance into consideration in their lending policies, reporting an easing impact on credit standards and terms and conditions for green firms and firms in transition and a tightening impact for high-emitting firms over the past twelve months. Both physical risk and firms’ transition risk had a moderate net tightening impact on banks’ lending policies, while climate-related fiscal support continued to have an easing impact. Banks also reported a net increase in demand for loans to green firms and firms in transition owing to climate change, while uncertainty over future climate regulation was perceived as an obstacle. Banks expect a similar impact overall over the next twelve months.

    Based on a new question on the impact of climate change on housing loans, banks reported an easing impact on credit standards for buildings with high energy performance and a tightening impact for buildings with low energy performance over the past twelve months. They expect a broadly corresponding impact over the next twelve months. As the easing impact for new buildings mostly offset the tightening impact for old buildings, the net impact of energy performance was low overall. The physical risk of real estate was, however, an important driver of further net tightening in lending conditions overall, and an even higher net percentage of banks reported that it will be a driver over the next year. Banks also reported a positive impact on loan demand for buildings with high and medium energy performance but a negative impact for those with low energy performance. Investment in energy performance was the key factor for climate-related loan demand, supported by preferential lending rates for increasing sustainability, whereas uncertainty over future climate regulation was reported as a dampening factor for loan demand.

    Banks indicated that changes in excess liquidity held with the Eurosystem in the first half of 2025 had a neutral impact on bank lending conditions. They expect to see similar effects in the second half of 2025.

    The quarterly BLS was developed by the Eurosystem to improve its understanding of bank lending behaviour in the euro area. The results reported in the July 2025 survey relate to changes observed in the second quarter of 2025 and changes expected in the third quarter of 2025, unless otherwise indicated. The July 2025 survey round was conducted between 13 June and 1 July 2025. A total of 155 banks were surveyed in this round, with a response rate of 100%.

    Chart 1

    Changes in credit standards for loans or credit lines to enterprises, and contributing factors

    (net percentages of banks reporting a tightening of credit standards, and contributing factors)

    Source: ECB (BLS).

    Notes: Net percentages are defined as the difference between the sum of the percentages of banks responding “tightened considerably” and “tightened somewhat” and the sum of the percentages of banks responding “eased somewhat” and “eased considerably”. The net percentages for “Other factors” refer to an average of the further factors which were mentioned by banks as having contributed to changes in credit standards. Data are for the euro area and for the largest four euro area countries.

    Chart 2

    Changes in demand for loans or credit lines to enterprises, and contributing factors

    (net percentages of banks reporting an increase in demand, and contributing factors)

    Source: ECB (BLS).

    Notes: Net percentages for the questions on demand for loans are defined as the difference between the sum of the percentages of banks responding “increased considerably” and “increased somewhat” and the sum of the percentages of banks responding “decreased somewhat” and “decreased considerably”. The net percentages for “Other factors” refer to an average of the further factors which were mentioned by banks as having contributed to changes in loan demand. Data are for the euro area and for the largest four euro area countries.

    For media queries, please contact William Lelieveldt, tel.: +49 170 227 9090.

    Notes

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UKAEA develops 3D printing for fusion components

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    UKAEA develops 3D printing for fusion components

    UKAEA’s new additive manufacturing – also known as 3D printing – machines offer new opportunities to produce highly specialised components for fusion machines.

    Freemelt (left) and Nikon SLM (right) teams at Central Support Facility launch event with UKAEA’s Roy Marshall (centre) – Image Credit: United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority

    The United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) has begun using two additive manufacturing – or 3D printing – machines that use complementary methods to manufacture components for future fusion machines.

    At its recently opened Central Support Facility (CSF), UKAEA has commissioned an electron beam additive manufacturing machine that will mainly be used to incorporate tungsten into components, alongside a selective laser manufacturing machine.

    Fusion can play a key role in a global low carbon energy future. However, the components within future fusion power plants will have to operate under complex and challenging conditions, including extreme temperatures, high neutron loads, and strong magnetic fields. As a result, they require complex combinations of materials and precision engineering.

    Additive manufacturing is well suited to producing materials with intricate designs, and in low volumes, making it ideal for a sector such as fusion, where – for the near future – each fusion machine will be highly individual and require bespoke components. As a result, UKAEA believes that 3D printing can play an important role in the future of fusion reducing the costs of this precision manufacturing, and has commissioned the machines to demonstrate two complementary 3D printing methods to produce fusion components.

    The eMELT Electron Beam Powder Bed Fusion (E-PBF) additive machine, made by Freemelt, will use electron beam technology to join tungsten in powder-form into solid components with almost 100 percent density. The eMELTmachine will be used to layer tungsten onto other materials such as copper chrome zirconium, stainless steel and Eurofer 97, a special type of steel developed for use in fusion machines.

    The SLM280 – Selective Laser Manufacturing – will be used to experiment with how to produce components with the complex geometries and material combinations that will be essential for successful fusion plants. The SLM280 is manufactured by Nikon SLM, provided by Kingsbury Machine Tools, supported by Additure.

    Both 3D printing technologies will support the manufacture of plasma-facing components that will be exposed to extreme temperatures during their operational lifecycle. The machines will also reduce the reliance on traditional techniques such as welding, reducing the number of manufacturing operations and joining processes.

    Roy Marshall, Head of Operations for Fabrication, Installation and Maintenance, at UKAEA said:

    Future fusion power plants will require thousands – or even millions – of components with complex geometries that can withstand the extreme conditions of a fusion environment.

    UKAEA believes that additive manufacturing will be essential to developing these components at a scale that makes fusion commercially viable.

    We have commissioned two complementary additive manufacturing machines so we can demonstrate that fusion components can be printed at a production scale, enabling the fusion industry to develop components at our facilities that would otherwise be commercially prohibitive.

    Using these machines will enable parts and geometries to be produced more efficiently than by using traditional fabrication methods.

    Many companies will have either an electron beam machine or selective laser manufacturing technology but having both capabilities under one roof – and able to produce components at scale – is a first for the fusion industry.

    Viktor Valk, Regional Manager, EMEA at Freemelt said:

    We are honoured to support UKAEA in their important work to advance fusion energy as a commercially viable energy source. The use of Freemelt’s industrial machine eMELT to produce tungsten plasma-facing components exposed to extreme conditions in fusion energy machines, marks an important step in applying our E-PBF technology to fusion energy development.

    Christoph Barefoot, Regional Business Director UK & Nordics, Nikon SLM Solutions, said:

    Fusion represents the future of energy – but it can only be realized through bold innovation and trusted collaboration. At Nikon SLM Solutions, we are proud to support UKAEA’s mission with our industry-leading Selective Laser Melting technology, helping make complex, high-performance fusion components not just possible, but scalable. With this milestone, we move one step closer to commercial fusion – and a more sustainable tomorrow.

    The CSF brings together this technology with purpose-built workshops into one building – alongside UKAEA’s Manufacturing Support Team and Special Techniques Group – to enable collaboration between manufacturing teams and to support fusion research and development. UKAEA is now working to prepare commercial partners for the large scale production that is essential for the fusion energy plants of the future.

    Both machines will now start the work of producing challenging geometries and undertake experiments exploring the properties of additive manufactured materials. This work will be followed by initial stages of manufacturing involving tungsten and copper chrome zirconium layering.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: 2 dead, 10 missing after heavy rains in eastern China

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    JINAN, July 22 (Xinhua) — Two people were killed and 10 were missing after a sudden torrent caused by heavy rainfall in east China’s Shandong Province early Tuesday, local authorities said.

    Torrential rains hit Laiwu District of Jinan City, capital of Shandong Province, and lasted for five hours from 00:00 to 05:00 Beijing time. During this period, a maximum of 364 mm of rain fell, the district government said in a statement.

    Rains caused a sudden mountain torrent to collapse near two villages in Dawangzhuang Township, washing away and damaging 19 houses, killing two people and leaving 10 others missing.

    Local authorities are doing everything possible to find the missing persons. -0-

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: Bispecific Antibodies Market Set to Surge to $163.15 Billion by 2032, Driven by a Robust 40.1% CAGR | Roche, Amgen, and Johnson & Johnson at the Forefront: AnalystView Market Insights

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    San Francisco, USA, July 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The global bispecific antibodies market is witnessing a transformative surge, projected to grow at an impressive compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 40.10%, reaching a valuation of approximately USD 163,149.35 million by 2032. This extraordinary growth is propelled by the increasing adoption of bispecific antibody therapies in oncology and immunology, groundbreaking clinical outcomes, and robust R&D investments aimed at next-generation biologics.

    Bispecific antibodies are bioengineered molecules designed to simultaneously recognize and bind to two different antigens or epitopes. Unlike monoclonal antibodies that target a single antigen, bispecific antibodies can link a disease-related antigen (such as one found on cancer cells) to another molecule—often a T-cell—thus redirecting immune cells to attack malignant tissues with heightened precision. This dual-binding capability is unlocking new therapeutic possibilities in cancer, autoimmune diseases, and infectious diseases. As of 2024, over 300 bispecific antibodies are in global clinical development, with 14 already approved by the U.S. FDA, reflecting the sector’s rapid growth and clinical validation.

    Download Free Sample Report PDF @  https://www.analystviewmarketinsights.com/request_sample/AV4090 

    Global Bispecific Antibodies Market Key Players- Detailed Competitive Insights

    • Amgen
    • Genentech
    • Akeso, Inc.
    • Taisho Pharmaceutical
    • Janssen
    • Immunocore
    • Adimab, Innovent Biologics, Inc.
    • AstraZeneca
    • Affimed GmbH
    • Xencor
    • F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd.
    • Sanofi
    • Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc.
    • Pieris Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
    • Eli Lilly
    • Mereo BioPharma Group plc
    • Merus
    • MacroGenics, Inc.
    • Sobi, TG Therapeutics Inc.
    • Genmab A/S
    • Alteogen
    • Emergent BioSolutions Inc.
    • Novartis AG
    • Astellas Pharma Inc.
    • Celgene Corporation
    • Others

    Market Drivers

    1. Increasing Cancer Prevalence Globally
    Cancer remains a global health crisis, with the World Health Organization (WHO) estimating around 19.3 million new cancer cases and nearly 10 million deaths in 2023 alone. Traditional therapies are often limited by poor specificity and severe side effects, which have shifted the focus toward more targeted modalities, such as bispecific antibodies. Their unique mechanism allows precise tumor targeting while preserving healthy tissues, making them a preferred choice for next-gen cancer therapies.

    2. Regulatory Approvals and Accelerated Development Pathways
    The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA) have actively supported innovative antibody therapeutics. Between 2022 and 2024, the FDA approved six bispecific antibodies, a testament to their growing clinical value. Regulatory agencies are also introducing expedited pathways for breakthrough therapies, speeding up market entry for promising candidates.

    3. Rising Investments in Immunotherapy and Biologics
    Governments and private players are significantly boosting funding for immunotherapy research. For instance, the U.S. National Cancer Institute (NCI) allocated over USD 15 billion toward cancer research in 2023, a portion of which is directed toward the development of targeted therapies, including bispecific antibodies. This capital influx is catalyzing clinical trials, molecule discovery, and scalable manufacturing solutions.

    Market Challenges

    Despite the optimistic trajectory, the bispecific antibodies market faces notable challenges:

    • Complex Manufacturing: Producing bispecific antibodies involves intricate processes, such as protein folding and stability optimization, which increase production time and cost.
    • High Development Costs: The R&D cycle for bispecific therapies is long and resource-intensive, often requiring large-scale trials and advanced biotechnological platforms.
    • Immunogenicity Risks: Some bispecific formats can trigger unwanted immune responses, complicating their clinical profiles.

    Nonetheless, advances in antibody engineering, such as the development of Fc-engineered antibodies and T-cell engaging bispecifics (BiTEs), are helping overcome these limitations.

    Regional Insights

    North America is poised to maintain a dominant position in the global bispecific antibodies market. Its leadership is driven by:

    • A well-established biotech and pharma industry.
    • Substantial government and private R&D investments.
    • Early and streamlined regulatory approvals.

    In 2023 alone, the U.S. government dedicated nearly USD 7.9 billion toward cancer research, a portion of which supports novel antibody-based treatments. Moreover, the presence of major biopharmaceutical companies and academic research centers ensures rapid clinical development.

    Asia-Pacific, on the other hand, is anticipated to experience the fastest growth rate. Countries such as China, India, and South Korea are:

    • Increasing healthcare expenditures.
    • Encouraging local biotech innovation.
    • Expanding access to clinical trials and biologic therapies.

    China, for example, is investing heavily in biologics manufacturing capabilities and has introduced supportive regulations for fast-track drug approval, which will likely make the region a future hub for bispecific antibody development.

    TABLE OF CONTENT

    1. Bispecific Antibodies Market Overview
    1.1. Study Scope
    1.2. Market Estimation Years
    2. Executive Summary
    2.1. Market Snippet
    2.1.1. Bispecific Antibodies Market Snippet by Drug Type
    2.1.2. Bispecific Antibodies Market Snippet by Indication
    2.1.3. Bispecific Antibodies Market Snippet by Distribution Channel
    2.1.4. Bispecific Antibodies Market Snippet by Country
    2.1.5. Bispecific Antibodies Market Snippet by Region
    2.2. Competitive Insights
    3. Bispecific Antibodies Key Market Trends
    3.1. Bispecific Antibodies Market Drivers
    3.1.1. Impact Analysis of Market Drivers
    3.2. Bispecific Antibodies Market Restraints
    3.2.1. Impact Analysis of Market Restraints
    3.3. Bispecific Antibodies Market Opportunities
    3.4. Bispecific Antibodies Market Future Trends……

    Get a detailed analysis on regions, market segments, customer landscape, and companies@ https://www.analystviewmarketinsights.com/reports/report-highlight-bispecific-antibodies-market

    Market Segmentation by Indication

    The bispecific antibodies market is segmented by application into:

    • Cancer
    • Autoimmune and Inflammatory Disorders
    • Others

    Among these, the oncology segment is forecasted to command the largest share throughout the forecast period. As of March 2025, over 650 bispecific antibodies are in clinical development globally—nearly all focused on oncology applications, and nine of the 11 bispecifics approved since 2021 target cancer, representing over 80% of recent regulatory approvals.

    Competitive Landscape & Innovation Strategies

    The bispecific antibody space is rapidly evolving with heightened competition among biotech giants and emerging players. Leading companies are prioritizing:

    • Next-generation platforms for greater safety, flexibility, and efficacy.
    • Strategic collaborations and licensing deals to expand pipeline access.
    • Geographic expansion into emerging economies with rising healthcare demands.

    Biotech firms are utilizing AI-driven drug discovery, cell-line optimization, and novel bispecific formats (like dual-variable domain antibodies and knob-into-hole technologies) to advance their products. Some players are also entering into co-development agreements to reduce costs and accelerate regulatory milestones.

    Future Outlook

    The bispecific antibodies market is positioned at the forefront of immunotherapeutic innovation. With strong clinical potential, increasing funding, and a favorable regulatory climate, the sector is expected to witness substantial growth through 2032. As manufacturing bottlenecks are resolved and newer formats with improved safety emerge, bispecific antibodies will likely become standard components of combination therapies in oncology and immune-related disorders.

    In conclusion, the bispecific antibodies market offers immense opportunities for stakeholders across biotechnology, healthcare, and investment sectors. Its rapid evolution signals a paradigm shift in how complex diseases are treated, ushering in a new era of precision medicine.

    Browse more Reports from AnalystView Market Insights:

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    The MIL Network –

  • How did a Bangladesh air force fighter jet crash into a school campus?

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    At least 25 children were among the 27 people killed when a Bangladesh Air Force plane crashed into a college and school campus in the capital city of Dhaka on Monday.

    Here is a look at what happened.

    HOW DID THE CRASH OCCUR?

    The fighter aircraft took off at 1:06 p.m. (0706 GMT) from the air force base in Dhaka’s Kurmitola for a routine training mission, but experienced a mechanical failure soon after.

    The pilot attempted to divert the aircraft away from densely populated areas to minimize civilian casualties and damage, but his efforts were unsuccessful and the jet crashed into a building.

    WHERE DID THE PLANE GO DOWN?

    The two-storey building that the plane rammed into belonged to the Milestone School and College in Dhaka’s Diabari area, located about 10 kilometres (six miles) from the air force base.

    Visuals from the scene showed the mangled remains of the aircraft dented into the side of the building, dismantling its iron grills and creating a gaping hole in the structure.

    HOW MANY PEOPLE WERE KILLED?

    The bodies of at least 27 people, including 25 children, a teacher, and the jet’s pilot, were pulled out from the debris.

    More than 100 children and 15 other people were also injured, of whom 78 are still admitted in hospitals with burn injuries.

    WHICH AIRCRAFT WAS INVOLVED IN THE INCIDENT?

    The jet was an F-7 fighter aircraft – the final and most advanced variant in China’s Chengdu J-7/F-7 aircraft family, according to Jane’s Information Group.

    Bangladesh had signed a contract in 2011 for 16 such planes, and deliveries were completed by 2013.

    HOW HAVE AUTHORITIES REACTED?

    The Bangladesh Air Force has formed a high-level investigation committee to probe the cause of the accident.

    Muhammad Yunus, the head of the country’s interim government, has also vowed to “take all necessary measures” to investigate its cause.

    In the meantime, the government says it is providing “all kinds of assistance” to those affected.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Sergei Sobyanin told how the city takes care of nature during the construction of the metro

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    At construction of the metro special attention is paid to ecology. This is reported inon your telegram channel Sergei Sobyanin reported.

    “Our task is to use natural resources rationally. Both during the work and during the operation of the metro,” the Mayor of Moscow noted.

    Source: Sergei Sobyanin’s Telegram channel @mos_sobyanin

    To do this, specialists conduct environmental monitoring of air, ground and surface water, and soil analysis. All samples are examined in independent laboratories. Most often, such testing is used when tunneling, which affects the territories of national parks or protected areas. Thus, it was carried out during the construction of the Big Ring Line (BCL), when tunnel boring machines worked under the territories of nature conservation areas and repeatedly crossed the water area of the Moscow River.

    After work, builders remove and dispose of all waste, including soil. For example, at the ZIL station Trinity line To create the pits and reversible culverts, it was necessary to remove a total of almost 400 thousand cubic meters of earth.

    After the work is completed, green spaces are restored. Thus, more than 600 bushes and trees will be planted near the Stolbovo electric depot, and about 1.4 thousand in TiNAO. Among the already implemented projects, one can highlight the improvement of the adjacent territory of the Kuntsevskaya station of the Big Circle Line. Almost 300 trees and 2.5 thousand bushes were planted here – a new park for citizens to relax appeared.

    Construction of monolithic structures of the Lipovaya Roshcha metro station has begunSergei Sobyanin: The first metro train arrived at the Stolbovo electric depot under construction

    “We minimize harm to the animal world. For example, trees and bushes are cut down before the nesting period. Grass is not burned and chemical reagents are not used,” added Sergei Sobyanin.

    All these measures help to avoid negative impacts on the environment and the health of construction workers, passengers and metro personnel.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The Museum of Entrepreneurs, Patrons and Philanthropists of Moscow presents the exhibition “Rediscover Russian PR”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    IN Museum of Entrepreneurs, Patrons and Philanthropists On July 23, the exhibition “Rediscover Russian PR” will open. The exposition will introduce visitors to the history of public relations in Russia and show how the reputations of domestic entrepreneurs and industrialists were formed, destroyed and restored.

    “By studying the origins of entrepreneurial activity, Moscow entrepreneurs will be able to learn not only about the legacy of business culture, but also find inspiration and practical guidelines for modern business communications. Such projects form the value of continuity and strengthen the connection between generations,” she noted.

    Kristina Kostroma, Head of the Department of Entrepreneurship and Innovative Development of the City of Moscow.

    The exhibition is based on the study and analysis of primary sources — business press, memoirs, materials from industrialists’ congresses, and other historical documents. Among them are more than a thousand newspaper issues from 1861–1917, including Moskovskiye Vedomosti, Russkoye Slovo, Golos Moskvy, Birzhevye Vedomosti, and Kommersant.

    The exhibition includes stands describing historical cases from the second half of the 19th and early 20th centuries in the areas of education, patronage and social support. They feature examples of press publications, early press releases and anti-crisis PR campaigns from past eras. The exhibition will reveal the PR tools of Russian entrepreneurs — from creating a personal brand to influencing public opinion and government decisions.

    Examples include the educational project “Agronomic Train,” which clearly demonstrated modern agricultural technologies to farmers, the anti-crisis media strategy in the Savva Mamontov case, which influenced public perception of the trial, and the activities of the first advertising agencies, which were engaged not only in advertising, but also in promoting news items.

    “The practice and history of Russian PR is currently taught only in specialized educational institutions, and, unfortunately, we are still learning from Western examples. Meanwhile, a huge number of Russian entrepreneurs have contributed to the development of the economy, education, and culture. Our task as a museum is to continue and support research in this area, as well as in other insufficiently studied areas, such as the experience of building entrepreneurial dynasties,” emphasized Nadezhda Smirnova, director of the Museum of Entrepreneurs, Patrons, and Philanthropists, member of the Moscow Council of Entrepreneurs.

    The exhibition will last until September 1. To visit, you must purchase a ticket to the Museum of Entrepreneurs, Patrons and Philanthropists, which includes a comprehensive tour. It includes a viewing of the permanent exhibition, as well as materials from the exhibition “Rediscover Russian PR”.

    The organizers of the exhibition were the digital agency Interium, the Museum of Entrepreneurs, Patrons and Philanthropists, members of the Council of Entrepreneurs of the City of Moscow, participants of the working group on PR and advertising, operating at the site of the capital headquarters for business protection.

    The Business Protection Headquarters, subordinate to the Department of Entrepreneurship and Innovative Development of the City of Moscow, ensures the processing of individual requests from Moscow entrepreneurs, facilitates the resolution of systemic issues and builds effective communication between businesses and government bodies. More detailed information about the work of the headquarters is available at website and by phone number: 7 495 620-20-45.

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

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: A new water supply system will appear in Shcherbinka

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    A new water pipeline will be built in the Shcherbinka district of the Novomoskovsk administrative district. The corresponding territorial planning project has already been approved. This was reported by Juliana Knyazhevskaya, Chairman of the Committee for Architecture and Urban Development of the City of Moscow (Moskomarkhitektura).

    Large-scale work is being carried out in TiNAO to update water supply and sanitation systems. The new facility will provide residents of Shcherbinka with water from a centralized system supplied by the Western Water Treatment Plant.

    “In the Shcherbinka district, it is planned to build a new water pipeline for water supply to existing and prospective consumers of the district. At present, a land use planning project has been approved for an area of about 96 hectares. It is planned to build a water pipeline and regulating water pumping units “Ryazanovsky-1”, “Ryazanovsky-2” and “Erino”, as well as two access roads. The total length of the water pipeline will be 3.42 kilometers. The work is being carried out within the framework of the capital’s Address Investment Program,” said Yuliana Knyazhevskaya.

    She also added that high-quality design of engineering infrastructure and water supply systems in new areas is a key element of sustainable development. The creation of a well-thought-out and reliable network will not only improve the quality of life of city residents, but will also ensure long-term stability and comfort for future generations, contributing to the harmonious development of the territory.

    Moscow Mayor Talks About More Than Two Centuries of Water Supply System History

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

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: A production complex will appear in Zelenograd as part of a large-scale investment project

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    In the Zelenograd Administrative District (ZelAO), as part of a large-scale investment project (MaIP), a production complex is being built for the companies Pervy DSK and Life Engineering. This is the third of four facilities being built in the Savelki area. This was reported by the Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Transport and Industry Maxim Liksutov.

    “In accordance with the instructions of Sergei Sobyanin, the capital continues to implement projects to develop industrial infrastructure. For example, a complex of four production facilities for various purposes is being built in Zelenograd, where it is planned to produce windows, aerated concrete blocks and ready-made modules. Its creation became possible thanks to two key measures to support the city at once. Due to the status of a large-scale investment project, the investor was able to lease a plot of land on preferential terms. And thanks to the program to stimulate the creation of employment opportunities, after the completion of the construction of all enterprises, the complex will provide more than 600 new jobs for residents of the capital. This will strengthen the production potential of the city and increase the level of employment of the population,” said Maxim Liksutov.

    The complex will house two enterprises producing modern construction products.

    The plant of the company “First DSK” will produce window and door systems, as well as facades using glass and aluminum. The enterprise will provide a full cycle of work – from standard elements to individual solutions. The annual output will be up to 279 thousand square meters of PVC structures, 82 thousand square meters of products with warm glazing and 184 thousand square meters – with cold glazing.

    The Life Engineering company’s enterprise will produce 40 thousand square meters of ready-made modules per year using prefab technology. It involves the preliminary assembly of standard-sized modular structures with full or partial glazing.

    “The construction of an industrial facility, which will become part of the city’s modern infrastructure, is underway in Zelenograd Administrative Okrug. The project’s implementation will create over 100 jobs for residents of the district and open up additional employment opportunities near home. The new facility, with a total area of over 17 thousand square meters, will be located in the Savelki district,” said the Minister of the Moscow Government, head of the Moscow Department of Investment and Industrial Policy

    Anatoly Garbuzov.

    The city provides land plots for the construction of production facilities within the framework of the implementation of the MAIP at a preferential rate of one ruble per year. This contributes to the development of Moscow’s infrastructure and the reduction of pendulum migration of the population of different districts.

    “The provision of land plots at a preferential rate for the creation and expansion of production is a support measure that has been in effect in the capital since March 2022. The FSK Group of Companies was one of the first to take advantage of this opportunity. A plot of about 3.5 hectares was allocated for the construction of the complex. In total, more than 17 hectares of land in the Savelki area have been transferred to the company for the construction of four industrial facilities,” she noted.

    Ekaterina Solovieva, Minister of the Moscow Government, Head of the Moscow Department of City Property.

    The construction of the complex is under control Committee for State Construction Supervision of the City of Moscow (Moscow State Construction Supervision Authority).

    As the head of the department said Anton Slobodchikov, permitting documentation, which allows the developer to begin work on the territory of the complex, was issued at the end of December 2023. The facility will have workshops, warehouses, administrative blocks and checkpoints, offices, a medical center, a canteen, sanitary and household premises and dressing rooms. More than two thousand square meters are allocated for landscaping. Mosgosstroynadzor inspectors monitor each stage of construction – from site preparation to the delivery of the facility. The implementation is carried out in strict accordance with the design documentation and compliance with all technical requirements.

    Work is currently underway to install a reinforced concrete base and roof, as well as to install metal structures and sandwich panels.

    FSK Group Project Director Maxim Rybakov noted that the new industrial facility in Zelenograd will unite two high-tech production facilities at one site. This will increase the efficiency of using the provided land plot and provide residents of the district with a large selection of vacancies for employment at future enterprises. The partnership of the city and business in projects of this scale allows for a comprehensive approach to the development of territories and human resources. Maxim Rybakov also noted that construction is planned to be completed this year.

    The program to stimulate the creation of employment opportunities has covered almost all districts of the city since 2020. Investors will build over 230 facilities with a total area of over six million square meters. Among them are new industrial enterprises, office and shopping centers, as well as educational, cultural and sports institutions. The implementation of the projects will create more than 310 thousand new jobs in almost all sectors of the city’s economy.

    Get the latest news quickly official telegram channel the city of Moscow.

     

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Gaza: Empty rhetoric from New Zealand and other Western countries

    In a joint statement, more than two dozen Western countries, including New Zealand, have called for an immediate end to the war on Gaza. But the statement is merely empty rhetoric that declines to take any concrete action against Israel, and which Israel will duly ignore. 

    AGAINST THE CURRENT: By Steven Cowan

    The New Zealand government has joined 27 other countries calling for an “immediate end” to the war in Gaza. The joint statement says  “the suffering of civilians in Gaza has reached new depths”.

    It goes on to say that the drip feeding of aid and the inhumane killing of civilians, including children, seeking to meet their most basic needs of water and food.

    But many of the countries that have signed this statement stand condemned for actively enabling Israel to pursue its genocidal assault on Gaza. Countries like Britain, Canada and Australia, continue to supply Israel with arms, have continued to trade with Israel, and have turned a blind eye to the atrocities and war crimes Israel continues to commit in Gaza.

    It’s more than ironic that while Western countries like Britain and New Zealand are calling for an end to the war in Gaza, they continue to be hostile toward the anti-war protest movements in their own countries.

    The British government recently classified the protest group Palestine Action as a “terrorist” group.

    In New Zealand, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Winston Peters, has denounced pro-Palestine protesters as “left wing fascists” and “communist, fascist and anti-democratic losers”. He has pushed back against the growing demands that the New Zealand government take direct action against Israel, including the cutting of all diplomatic ties.

    The New Zealand government, which contains a number of Zionists within its cabinet, including Act leader David Seymour and co-leader Brooke van Velden, will be more than comfortable with a statement that proposes to do nothing.

    ‘Statement lacks leadership’
    Its call for an end to the war is empty rhetoric, and which Israel will duly ignore — as it has ignored other calls for its genocidal war to end.  As Amnesty International has said, ‘the statement lacks any resolve, leadership, or action to help end the genocide in Gaza.’

    “This is cruelty – this is not a war,” says this young girl’s placard quoting the late Pope Francis in an Auckland march last Saturday . . . this featured in an earlier report. Image: Asia Pacific Report

    New Zealand has declined to join The Hague Group alliance of countries that recently met in Colombia.

    It announced six immediate steps it would be taking against Israel. But since The Hague Group has already been attacked by the United States, it’s never been likely that New Zealand would join it.

    The National-led coalition government has surrendered New Zealand’s independent foreign policy in favour of supporting the interests of a declining American Empire.

    Republished from Steven Cowan’s blog Against The Current with permission.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –