NewzIntel.com

Category: Russia

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Chinese-Uzbek joint archaeological team makes significant progress in excavations

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, June 17 (Xinhua) — A Chinese-Uzbek joint archaeological team has made significant progress in excavations at the Chinartepa site in the upper reaches of the Surkhandarya River, uncovering numerous residential structures and unearthing a large number of cultural relics, CCTV reported on June 15, citing the Silk Road Joint Archaeological Research Center of Northwest China University (NWCU), northwest China’s Shaanxi Province.

    The Chinartepa settlement, located on the edge of the third terrace of the eastern bank of the upper reaches of the Surkhandarya River, occupies an area of 350 thousand square meters and consists of a central settlement and adjacent burials. During the current excavations in the key area of the settlement, multi-layered housing structures of different periods were uncovered, which is important for constructing the chronological sequence of the Kushan culture, rethinking the architectural forms of the Kushan period and clarifying the archaeological characteristics of this culture.

    Wang Jianxin, head of the Central Asian Archaeological Team of Northwest University of China and head of the Chinese-Uzbek joint archaeological team on the Chinese side, said that more than 30 dwellings located in at least 6 cultural layers were discovered at the site. Rich ruins including wall foundations, fireplaces, post holes were excavated, and numerous artifacts were recovered: painted clay figurines of people and animals, clay spindle whorls, stone millstones, coins and other items. The clear stratigraphy of the dwelling foundations makes it possible to clearly trace the processes of rebuilding, reconstruction and abandonment of houses in different periods.

    Currently, the archaeological team has strengthened and preserved the discovered foundations of the dwellings and is carrying out systematic work to restore the extracted cultural relics.

    From 2019 to the present, the Chinese-Uzbek joint archaeological team has conducted 7 archaeological surveys and excavations in the upper reaches of the Surkhandarya River, confirming the existence of a chain of equidistant Kushan settlements on the eastern bank of the river. Excavations at the Chinartepa settlement, which is the largest and best-preserved settlement of the Kushan period in the area, are ongoing. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Guinea-Bissau President Inaugurates China-Funded Highway

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BISSAU, June 17 (Xinhua) — Guinea-Bissau President Oumarou Sisoko Embalo on Monday attended the opening ceremony of an 8.2-km expressway connecting the capital Bissau with its suburb of Safim.

    The highway was built by the Chinese company Longjian Road

    “This is a symbol of the strong friendship, solidarity and continuous cooperation between Guinea-Bissau and China,” said U.S. Embalo during the inauguration of the infrastructure.

    Chinese Ambassador to Bissau Yang Renhuo reaffirmed China’s readiness to continue supporting Guinea-Bissau in its development projects. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China’s cross-border e-commerce volume to hit record 2.71 trillion yuan in 2024

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    SHIJIAZHUANG, June 17 (Xinhua) — China’s cross-border e-commerce volume will reach 2.71 trillion yuan (about 377.5 billion U.S. dollars) in 2024, hitting a new historical high, Cai Junwei, deputy head of the statistical analysis department of the General Administration of Customs, said Monday at the China International Economic and Trade Talks in Langfang, north China’s Hebei Province.

    According to the department, in 2024, China’s cross-border e-commerce export volume exceeded 2 trillion yuan for the first time, reaching 2.15 trillion yuan, up 16.9 percent from the previous year.

    “Since the beginning of this year, there has been a trend of steady recovery and improvement in the Chinese economy. The trade in goods has shown great resilience to external pressure, and China’s foreign trade volume in cross-border e-commerce has maintained a trend of further growth,” Cai Junwei said.

    According to him, more than 70 percent of Chinese companies express confidence that cross-border e-commerce exports and imports will remain stable or will grow further in 2025. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China expects to make greater contribution to peace and development in the region and around the world together with Kazakhstan – Xi Jinping /more details/

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    ASTANA, June 16 (Xinhua) — China hopes to make greater contributions to peace and development in the region and around the world together with Kazakhstan through stability and positive energy in bilateral relations, Chinese President Xi Jinping said in Astana on Monday.

    Xi Jinping made the corresponding statement during talks with Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev before the start of the 2nd China-Central Asia Summit.

    The Chinese leader noted that Chinese-Kazakh relations have stood the test of changes in the international situation and always maintain a high level of development. This is explained by the geographical proximity and long-standing friendship between the peoples of the two countries, and is also a logical choice in the desire of both countries for joint development, the PRC Chairman stated.

    According to Xi Jinping, in recent years, thanks to the joint planning of the leaders of the two countries, the China-Kazakhstan community of shared future has become more valuable in quality and richer in content. Tangible and beneficial results have been constantly emerging, which has greatly increased the sense of satisfaction of the people of both countries.

    China always views and develops its relations with Kazakhstan from a strategic height and in the long term, and is willing to steadily strengthen the friendship between the two countries, Xi Jinping said.

    Both China and Kazakhstan are at key stages of their development and rise, he stressed, adding that the two countries should jointly advance comprehensive cooperation.

    First, as the Chinese President pointed out, high-level strategic mutual trust should guide the development of bilateral relations. The two countries should continue to support each other on issues affecting their core interests and major concerns, promote the alignment of development strategies, be a reliable backbone for each other in an unstable international situation, and provide mutual assistance for the development and rise of both countries.

    Secondly, Xi Jinping said that high-quality cooperation under the Belt and Road should be used to qualitatively improve bilateral cooperation. Efforts should be made to strengthen the strengths of traditional cooperation in areas such as trade, investment and energy, promote cross-border railway projects and the upgrading of checkpoint infrastructure, enhance connectivity, expand high-tech cooperation, and promote green and sustainable development.

    Thirdly, the Chinese President continued, it is necessary to carry out comprehensive cooperation in the field of security to maintain peace and stability in both countries, expand exchanges in the areas of law enforcement and defense, jointly combat the “three evil forces” (terrorism, separatism and extremism), deepen cooperation in the field of emergency management, disaster prevention and minimization.

    Fourth, Xi Jinping pointed out that it is necessary to conduct various cultural and humanitarian exchanges to consolidate the foundation of China-Kazakhstan friendship. He called for properly organizing the China Tourism Year in Kazakhstan, encouraging more active youth, media, inter-regional and think tank exchanges.

    Xi Jinping stressed that in the context of chaotic changes in the international situation, China and Kazakhstan should firmly safeguard the international system with the UN at its core and the international order based on international law, put genuine multilateralism into practice, and safeguard the common interests of developing countries.

    China highly appreciates the extensive preparatory work done by Kazakhstan ahead of the 2nd China-Central Asia Summit and believes that the current summit will write a new chapter in the history of cooperation between China and Central Asia, the Chinese President said.

    In addition, China, as the current chair of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), is willing to work with all SCO member countries to take advantage of the organization’s upcoming summit in Tianjin this year to strengthen the SCO and showcase its new development, new breakthroughs and new image, Xi added.

    K.-Zh. Tokayev, for his part, stated that China is a friendly neighbor, close friend and reliable partner of Kazakhstan.

    According to him, the Kazakh-Chinese relations of eternal comprehensive strategic partnership are entering a new golden era, contributing to the sustainable socio-economic development of both countries, benefiting their peoples and setting a model for interstate relations.

    Noting that Kazakhstan and China have a strong political will to strengthen cooperation, K.-Zh Tokayev noted that the two countries invariably support each other on issues affecting their core interests, such as sovereignty and security, regardless of changes in the international situation.

    The President of Kazakhstan noted that under the wise leadership of Chairman Xi Jinping, tremendous successes have been achieved in building socialism with Chinese characteristics in the new era.

    Kazakhstan is sincerely pleased with these achievements and firmly believes that China will continue to achieve even greater success in development, K.-Zh. Tokayev emphasized, adding that Kazakhstan is ready to deepen strategic mutual trust and comprehensive mutually beneficial cooperation with China, taking bilateral relations to a new level.

    The two sides, he continued, should jointly promote high-quality cooperation within the framework of the Belt and Road, expand cooperation in such areas as trade, investment, industry, agriculture, energy and transportation, and strengthen cultural and people-to-people exchanges in such areas as culture, education, sports and tourism.

    The Kazakh side highly values and actively supports China’s responsibility and efforts to ensure international fairness and justice, and is ready to continue to closely cooperate with China and support each other within the framework of multilateral structures such as the UN, SCO, BRICS, the China-Central Asia mechanism, the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia, in order to advance the development of the international order in a more just and reasonable direction, K.-Zh. Tokayev pointed out.

    Following the talks, the two leaders witnessed the exchange of more than 10 documents on bilateral cooperation, covering areas such as trade, investment, science and technology, customs, tourism and media. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Iran fires new rocket salvo at northern Israel

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    JERUSALEM, June 16 (Xinhua) — A new salvo of rockets was fired into Israel from Iran on Monday evening, triggering air raid sirens in Haifa and dozens of other cities and towns in the north of the country and the occupied Golan Heights, the Israeli military said.

    According to the Israeli emergency medical service Magen David Adom, there have been no reports of casualties so far.

    According to the state television channel Kan, three missiles were fired from Iranian territory, one of which was intercepted, while the other two fell in open areas. As specified, fragments of the downed shell fell in the city of Safed, causing a fire.

    The current rocket attack is a continuation of the air attacks that Iran and Israel have been exchanging in recent days following the Jewish state’s devastating surprise airstrikes on the Islamic Republic on June 13. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Chinese brand Hongqi to provide cars for St. Petersburg International Economic Forum

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    St. Petersburg, June 16 /Xinhua/ — Chinese premium brand Hongqi will provide 30 vehicles to organize transport services at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum /SPIEF/, the Russian analytical agency Avtostat reported on Monday.

    Forum guests will be offered the premium Hongqi H9 sedan and the business-class Hongqi HQ9 minivan in Deluxe and Executive trim levels.

    In 2024, Hongqi brand cars took part in important events in Russia, including the SPIEF, the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, and the BRICS summit in Kazan.

    The St. Petersburg International Economic Forum will be held from June 18 to 21. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Israel issues evacuation warning to Tehran residents ahead of airstrikes

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    JERUSALEM, June 16 (Xinhua) — Israel on Monday issued an evacuation warning to residents of a Tehran city district, urging them to urgently leave the area ahead of Israeli airstrikes.

    In a post in Persian and Arabic on the X social media site, IDF spokesman Avichai Adraei advised residents of District C, located in the northeastern part of the city, to evacuate.

    “In the coming hours, the Israeli army will carry out an operation in this area, as it has done in recent days in other parts of Tehran, to strike at the military infrastructure of the Iranian regime,” Adraei said.

    “Being in this area is life-threatening. For your safety, we urge you to evacuate immediately,” he added.

    District C of Tehran houses several important government institutions, government offices and semi-governmental organizations, as well as communications and intelligence facilities.

    The IDF said in a statement that since the morning, Israeli warplanes have been hitting trucks carrying weapons and surface-to-air missile launchers that are heading from western Iran towards Tehran.

    Also on Monday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz visited the Tel Nof air base in the south of the country. During the visit, Netanyahu noted that the Israeli Air Force “controls the skies over Tehran.” He stressed: “We are on track to achieve our two main goals: eliminating the nuclear threat and eliminating the missile threat.” –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The government has allocated 20 billion rubles to support advanced industrial initiatives

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Document

    Order dated June 9, 2025 No. 1499-r

    The government has approved a decision on additional capitalization of the Industrial Development Fund – 20 billion rubles will be allocated from the Cabinet’s reserve fund in 2025 for the implementation of various projects in the field of import substitution, as well as for the modernization and expansion of production. The order to this effect was signed by Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin.

    The funding will provide support to 50 projects aimed at developing and implementing promising technologies at enterprises and introducing new high-tech industrial products into production.

    Their implementation will help attract about 5 billion rubles of private investment and create more than a thousand jobs, primarily in mechanical engineering, metalworking, chemical, medical and biopharmaceutical industries – those industries that are included in the perimeter of national projects for technological leadership.

    Commenting on the decision takenGovernment meeting on June 16, Mikhail Mishustin noted that state-funded projects must achieve the goals set by the President within the established timeframes.

    “Their results are necessary, including in related areas, to bring competitive Russian products to the market, create breakthrough developments, and also form the basis for future development,” the head of government emphasized.

    The Industrial Development Fund provides preferential loans to enterprises that are engaged in the development of promising technologies and the production of products that can replace foreign analogues.

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

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: Marat Khusnullin: Over two years, about 20 million trips have been recorded on the Aksai bypass and the far western bypass of Krasnodar on the M-4 Don highway

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    In recent years, Russia has been actively developing its road infrastructure. Large-scale projects to build modern highways are being implemented in the regions. Thus, two years ago, the construction of the Rostov-on-Don bypass (Aksay bypass) and the far western bypass of Krasnodar (FWBK) on the federal highway M-4 “Don” was completed ahead of schedule. Since the opening of traffic on them, about 20 million trips have been recorded. This was reported by Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin.

    “Creating comfortable and safe conditions for citizens to travel is an important task for the Russian construction complex. The road bypasses that we are building on the instructions of the President not only help relieve congestion in the centers of populated areas, but also make it more convenient and faster to deliver goods, and also help car travelers get to the places they need to go. Two years ago, traffic was launched along the Rostov-on-Don bypass and the far western bypass of Krasnodar on the M-4 Don highway, which became a significant event for the development of the south of Russia and the improvement of transport accessibility of the Black Sea coast. Over the two years, about 20 million trips have been recorded along the new high-speed sections of the M-4 Don. In particular, drivers have traveled along the Aksai bypass more than 13 million times with an average daily traffic of about 20 thousand cars. About 6 million trips of cars have been recorded on the DZOK during this period, and the average daily figure here reaches about 9 thousand cars,” said Marat Khusnullin.

    The Deputy Prime Minister noted that for the convenience of drivers and passengers, two mirror multifunctional road service zones were opened at DZOK this year. Due to this, trips have become even more comfortable, especially during the high tourist season, when the flow of traffic increases three to four times.

    Chairman of the Board of the state-owned company Avtodor Vyacheslav Petushenko noted that these roads are part of the main routes to the Black Sea and Azov coasts, and therefore the peak load traditionally occurs in the summer months.

    “The absolute maximum on the Aksai bypass was recorded in August last year and amounted to about 1.4 million trips per month. This year, the intensive growth of the flow began earlier and was noted already in April. In turn, on the DZOK, the peak value was noted in July last year and amounted to almost 500 thousand trips per month. At the same time, 248.6 thousand trips were recorded in May of this year alone, which is almost 14% more compared to the same period last year. According to forecast calculations, over 500 thousand trips are expected on the DZOK this summer,” said Vyacheslav Petushenko.

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

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: Dedicated to the first Russian theater (06/16/2025).

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Central Bank of Russia –

    On June 17, 2025, the Bank of Russia will issue a commemorative silver coin of 3 rubles “The First Russian Professional Theater” (catalog No. 5111-0521).

    The history of this theater began in July 1750 in the city of Yaroslavl with the first theatrical production of a young troupe headed by Fyodor Volkov, the son of a Kostroma merchant. Before that, there were many theater troupes in Russia – palace, home, school. But it was Volkov’s theater that became the first to have a separate building, a permanent repertoire, was publicly accessible, and its actors received a salary.

    The silver coin with a face value of 3 rubles (pure precious metal weight – 31.1 g, alloy fineness – 925) has the shape of a circle with a diameter of 39.0 mm.

    There is a raised edge around the circumference of both the front and back sides of the coin.

    On the obverse of the coin there is a relief image of the State Emblem of the Russian Federation, the inscriptions “RUSSIAN FEDERATION”, “BANK OF RUSSIA”, the coin denomination “3 RUBLES”, the date “2025”, the designation of the metal according to the Periodic Table of Elements of D.I. Mendeleyev, the alloy fineness, the trademark of the St. Petersburg Mint and the pure mass of the precious metal.

    On the reverse side of the coin there are relief images of the building of the Russian State Academic Drama Theatre named after Fyodor Volkov and an allegorical sculptural group decorating its façade; at the top along the circumference there is a relief inscription “THE FIRST RUSSIAN PROFESSIONAL THEATRE”, at the bottom left in three lines there is an inscription “FOUNDED IN 1750 IN YAROSLAVL BY F.G. VOLKOV”, made using the laser matting technique.

    The side surface of the coin is ribbed.

    The coin is made in proof quality.

    The mintage of the coin is 3.0 thousand pieces.

    The issued coin is a legal tender in the territory of the Russian Federation and must be accepted at face value for all types of payments without restrictions.

    When using the material, a link to the Press Service of the Bank of Russia is required.

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

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

    HTTPS: //vv. KBR.ru/Press/PR/? File = 638856906491165770KOins. CHTM

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: To the staff of the International Children’s Center “Artek”.

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    On June 16, 2025, Artek celebrates its 100th anniversary.

    Dear friends!

    I congratulate you on this wonderful anniversary – the 100th anniversary of the International Children’s Center “Artek”.

    Over a century of history, full of bright events, the tent camp on the seashore has become a major international center, raising more than one generation of active, goal-oriented young citizens.

    Today, Artek is a flagship in the field of children’s recreation and health improvement, its popularity is constantly growing. Every year, thousands of children from different regions of Russia and foreign countries strive to get here. A modern educational environment has been formed here, combining the best pedagogical traditions with innovative methods and technologies. Unique conditions and an atmosphere have been created where each child feels like part of a large and friendly family, can reveal their talents, master advanced knowledge, develop abilities in science, creativity and sports. Children learn to respect the history and cultural heritage of our multinational country, understand each other, find friends, sometimes for life. Following the motto – “An Artek student today is an Artek student forever.”

    I would like to express special gratitude to the teachers, mentors, counselors and staff of the center. Thanks to your high professionalism, inexhaustible energy and individual approach, the children receive vivid impressions and develop a broad outlook. Your work is a contribution to the future of Russia, which your students will build.

    I wish the Artek team further success in implementing large-scale projects, good health and well-being.

    M. Mishustin

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

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Chernyshenko and Sergey Kravtsov awarded Artek employees on its 100th anniversary

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko and Minister of Education Sergey Kravtsov awarded the staff of the International Children’s Center “Artek” on its 100th anniversary. The event took place in the Suuk-Su Palace in Gurzuf.

    The Deputy Prime Minister also read out a congratulatory message from Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, which, in particular, noted: “Today, Artek is a flagship in the field of children’s recreation and health improvement, its popularity is constantly growing. Every year, thousands of children from different regions of Russia and foreign countries strive to get here. A modern educational environment has been formed here, combining the best pedagogical traditions with innovative methods and technologies. Unique conditions and an atmosphere have been created where each child feels like part of a large and friendly family, can reveal their talents, master advanced knowledge, develop abilities in science, creativity and sports. Children learn to respect the history and cultural heritage of our multinational country, understand each other, find friends, sometimes for life. Following the motto – “An Artek student today is an Artek student forever.”

    Sergei Kravtsov also congratulated the employees of the International Children’s Center “Artek”.

    “Dear staff of the International Children’s Center “Artek”! I congratulate everyone on the anniversary and want to sincerely thank you for your work, professionalism and service to children. “Artek” is one of the best children’s centers of the international level. Today, there is a part of it in almost every school, in every college. Advisors to directors on education are trained in “Artek” and work using its unique technologies. “Artek” began with several canvas tents and today has been transformed into a unique international children’s center, which continues to develop,” the Minister of Education noted.

    The Deputy Prime Minister and the Minister also assessed the space of the “City of Childhood” master classes. Artek teachers and thematic partners of the center presented 80 sites of various focuses in three blocks: past, present and future. The festival of creativity, sports and knowledge brought together more than 3 thousand participants of the sixth anniversary shift from all regions of Russia, as well as 29 foreign countries.

    At the “City of Childhood” site, Artek children were able to do pyrography, beadwork, scrapbooking, painting, embroidery, create a digital drawing, an Artek souvenir, play the guitar, play gorodki, write a retro letter and much more. The historical direction was widely represented: the children’s center children walked Artek routes, studied the literary map of “Artek”. A separate direction was the marine theme – for example, those who wished were able to master the technique of tying knots. The children were also interested in the sites of thematic partners of “Artek”. Representatives of the All-Russian Student Rescue Corps held master classes dedicated to safety.

    Dmitry Chernyshenko and Sergey Kravtsov left memorable notes in the book of honored guests.

    In addition, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister and Director of the International Children’s Center “Artek” Konstantin Fedorenko assessed the exhibition of the IT festival “From Dream to Progress”. The exhibition is held in the children’s camps “Lesnoy” and “Polevoy” and includes branded zones of the companies participating in the festival, where master classes on the development of mobile applications, programming, working with artificial intelligence are presented, as well as information on the latest Russian IT technologies in various industries – construction, agriculture, space industry, medicine and others.

    “Today we celebrate 100 years of Artek – an entire era of friendship, discoveries and inspiration. Here, in this amazing place, children from all over the world learn to understand each other, preserving traditions. Artek is not just a children’s center, but, as children say, a home where faith in goodness, justice and one’s own strength is born. Thank you to everyone who created and continues this history: veterans, teachers, children. Your hearts make Artek a symbol of childhood, joy and unity. Let our anniversary be the beginning of new victories, and the fire of friendship never go out. Happy holiday, Artek! Forward – to new heights! ” – Konstantin Fedorenko congratulated those gathered.

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

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Chernyshenko: Russia will be strong, sovereign and prosperous in the next 100 years

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    “Russia will be strong, sovereign, prosperous, and peaceful in the next 100 years,” said Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko as he greeted the participants of the ceremonial assembly dedicated to the 100th anniversary of Artek. A capsule containing wishes for future generations was laid there. It is expected to be opened in 100 years, in 2125.

    The event itself took place in the children’s camp “Morskoy” – where 100 years ago the history of the legendary “Artek” began with four canvas tents. The meeting was also attended by the Minister of Education Sergey Kravtsov, the director of the International Children’s Center “Artek” Konstantin Fedorenko and the Artek children themselves.

    The flags of the Russian Federation, the International Children’s Center and the Morskoy children’s camp were ceremoniously raised on the bonfire square. Young Artek children – Yaroslav Lutsenko from St. Petersburg and Rostislav Fomenko from Voronezh – together with Dmitry Chernyshenko and Sergey Kravtsov closed and laid a capsule with a message to the future.

    The Deputy Prime Minister congratulated Artek on its 100th anniversary and thanked the staff for creating unique conditions and technologies for recreation, education and upbringing.

    “We are now looking to the future. We are confident that Russia will be strong, sovereign, prosperous, and peaceful in the next 100 years. To achieve this, we must work hard. Here, in Artek, all the conditions have been created for this. Russian President Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin has set a national goal of creating conditions for the development of your talents and abilities. You must take full advantage of the unique opportunity that has been given to you so that you grow up kind, patriotic, hardworking, exactly the way your homeland, your family, and your country need you to be,” said Dmitry Chernyshenko.

    Minister of Education Sergei Kravtsov joined in congratulating Artek.

    “Today we celebrate 100 years of our International Children’s Center “Artek”. On June 16, 1925, the first assembly took place here and children from all over the country, just like you, were there. Today, with your work and talent, you have earned a ticket to “Artek”. Our country does everything to make you happy, successful and confidently move forward. Dear children, counselors, all employees of “Artek”, I want to congratulate you on the holiday. “Artek” is developing, branches are operating in Berdyansk and Sevastopol. I am sure that in 100 years it will also be the best international children’s center, a real city of childhood”, – Sergey Kravtsov addressed the participants of the ceremony.

    Congratulating the young participants of the holiday, the director of the International Children’s Center “Artek” Konstantin Fedorenko noted that over the century-long history of the camp, his family has become not just large, but huge – more than 1.8 million Artek children. He emphasized that the birthday of “Artek” is also a holiday of love and respect for the Motherland:

    “The present and future of Russia depend on all of us, on our common achievements! I am sure that you will leave Artek with the confidence that you can make this world a better place. It is you, purposeful, focused on achievements, who will set and solve the tasks that will lead Russia to a successful future. Let your talents, creativity, and initiatives make our country even better!”

    In total, more than 3 thousand children from all regions of Russia and 29 foreign countries gathered at the 9 campfire sites of the International Children’s Center “Artek”.

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

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: Marat Khusnullin: Construction of two dormitory buildings for 1,000 people has been completed in Artek

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The construction of two dormitory buildings for 1,000 people has been completed at the Artek International Children’s Center on the territory of the Solnechny camp. This was reported by Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation Marat Khusnullin.

    “Today we celebrate a significant event – the 100th anniversary of the legendary Artek. This unique children’s center has been a symbol of a happy childhood for a century, a place where character is tempered, talents are revealed and friendships are born for life. It is especially important for us that in the anniversary year, Artek continues to develop and become even more comfortable for new generations of children. By the anniversary date, we completed the construction of two modern dormitory buildings for 1,000 people – these are spacious premises with well-thought-out infrastructure and recreation areas. Permission for commissioning has already been received. The total area of the two buildings is more than 40 thousand square meters. Particular attention was paid to the improvement of the territory: the embankments were updated, new walking areas and recreation areas were created,” said Marat Khusnullin.

    In addition, each building has a usable roof designed for low-mobility games, daytime gatherings, line-ups and recreation.

    “The construction of social facilities, especially for children, plays a key role in the formation of a healthy and safe childhood. Such facilities create comfortable conditions for children’s recreation and development. They become a place where schoolchildren can find new friends, play sports and develop their creative abilities, which ultimately forms a strong future for our society. At the moment, the embankments of the Kiparisny and Solnechny camps have been improved. The builders have installed an underwater breakwater, carried out comprehensive landscaping, and also erected a beach building with a detachment site on the exploited roof, where children vacationing in Artek will gather. Earlier, a dormitory with an area of more than 750 square meters was reconstructed in the Kiparisny children’s camp. It is intended for the temporary accommodation of more than 40 children aged 8 to 17 years old,” said Irek Faizullin, Minister of Construction and Housing and Public Utilities of the Russian Federation.

    In January 2025, the reconstruction of a number of facilities of the children’s camp “Kiparisny” was successfully completed in “Artek”. Among them is the milk kitchen building, which the builders converted into a medical unit. In addition, specialists comprehensively improved the adjacent territory: they arranged walking areas with places to rest, installed benches, renewed the asphalt surface and laid new paths for comfortable movement around the camp. A decorative pond was created, and the green areas are equipped with an automatic irrigation system. The total area of the park zone of the camp “Kiparisny” is more than 90 thousand square meters.

    “By the end of 2025, we plan to complete the construction of the Center for Innovative and Educational Technologies, which is designed for 1.2 thousand students. This facility, with a total area of over 27 thousand square meters, is one of the largest on the territory of Artek. In addition to classrooms, there will be art and rehearsal halls, an amphitheater, modern workshops, a universal hall for 700 seats and much more,” said Karen Oganesyan, General Director of the Unified Customer PPC.

    The construction and reconstruction of capital construction projects of the International Children’s Center “Artek” are carried out within the framework of the comprehensive state program “Construction”, supervised by the Ministry of Construction of Russia.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Chernyshenko: Participants of the anniversary shift should take with them in their hearts love for our country and for Artek

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    On June 16, 2025, a special commemorative postage stamp cancellation ceremony dedicated to the centenary of the center was held at the Artek International Children’s Center. The ceremony was attended by Deputy Prime Minister of Russia Dmitry Chernyshenko, Minister of Education Sergei Kravtsov, and Director of the Artek International Children’s Center Konstantin Fedorenko.

    They greeted the Artek children and took part in the special cancellation procedure – a special postmark that is valid for only one day. This postmark with the date and place of the ceremony turns the postal products that have undergone the cancellation into real philatelic rarities.

    “Being a participant in the anniversary shift is a great honor and privilege. You should carry in your hearts the love for our country, for Artek, meet the children with whom you will go through life, who will forever remain Artekites and will be with you. Here you learn to be friends, work and be useful to our country and your families. This is the main thing you should learn here. Artek has been around for over 100 years, and now we can say so, it is an international standard for the best children’s recreation. Happy anniversary, Artek! Happy holiday, guys!” Dmitry Chernyshenko addressed the participants.

    “On this festive day, I want to thank the counselors, the organizers, who do everything to ensure that each of you realizes your talents. Guys, I think that you will also join these words. Today is a significant event for the international children’s center “Artek” and for other children’s centers. We laid a capsule in 2125, the ceremony of cancellation of the anniversary postage stamp took place. I am sure that in 100 years, the children will also strive to get to “Artek” and rejoice at the opportunity to be here,” said Sergey Kravtsov at the ceremony of cancellation of the stamp.

    During the celebration, Artek member Ruslan Minyaylenko from the Luhansk People’s Republic, the author of the drawing that won the competition to create a sketch for a postage stamp, spoke about the creation of the sketch. His work reflects the spirit and long-standing traditions of Artek, uniting the past and the present.

    The camp counselors and educators prepared a creative exhibition where they presented postage stamps, envelopes and postcards issued in different years on significant dates in the history of Artek. Among them: a postage stamp from 1938 from the Children of the Land of Soviets series; a stamp from 1948 dedicated to the All-Union Pioneer Organization; a stamp from 1958 for International Children’s Day with an image of a bugler from a pioneer camp; postage envelopes from 1963, 1965, 1971 issued by the USSR Ministry of Communications; a postcard from 1975 in honor of the 50th anniversary of the camp; stamps from 1985 and 2015 dedicated to the 60th and 90th anniversaries of Artek, respectively. This exhibition allowed guests and Artek residents to see how the images and symbols of Artek on postal items changed and to feel the connection between generations.

    The release of the anniversary postage stamp is accompanied by the publication of first day covers, maximum cards, artistic covers and vignettes. All these collectibles can be purchased at post offices throughout Russia. Particular attention is paid to the special cancellation stamps, which were made not only for Moscow and Gurzuf (Republic of Crimea), but also for Ulyanovsk and Chelyabinsk.

    The festive mood was created by the theatrical composition “Native Artek” with the participation of the famous song theater “Neposedy”. Artek residents had the opportunity to personally sign envelopes and receive unique impressions of a special stamp in the post house “Artek Post”.

    In addition, Dmitry Chernyshenko, Sergey Kravtsov and Konstantin Fedorenko, together with Artek children, unveiled a memorial bas-relief dedicated to the sculptor Ernst Neizvestny at the entrance to the educational space for artistic creativity.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Iran’s state broadcaster IRIB has reported an attack on it from Israel

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    TEHRAN, June 16 (Xinhua) — Iran’s state broadcaster IRIB said one of its buildings came under attack from Israel on Monday, calling it a “brutal aggression” and adding that live broadcasts were continuing without major interruptions.

    The Israeli strike targeted the broadcaster’s news network in an apparent attempt to “silence the voice of the Iranian people and the voice of truth,” IRIB said. It said IRIB staff were continuing to report “at maximum capacity.”

    The television broadcast showed the moment of the Israeli attack, which occurred during a live broadcast. In the footage, the presenter was reading the news when the explosion occurred. She reported on it and condemned the attack, but was forced to interrupt the broadcast after a second explosion and the resulting smoke.

    The TV presenter later reappeared live on IRIB without any injuries.

    In the early hours of June 13, Israel launched massive airstrikes on Iran, killing several military commanders, scientists and dozens of civilians. Iran retaliated later that day, and the exchange of strikes continued into Monday. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Breaking: Iranian state television IRIB TV reports attack by Israel

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    TEHRAN, June 16 (Xinhua) — Iran’s state-run IRIB TV reported that one of its buildings was attacked by Israel on Monday, calling it a “brutal aggression.”

    It is noted that all live broadcasts of IRIB TV continue without interruption. As the channel emphasized, by attacking the Iranian news network, Israel “tried to silence the voice of the Iranian people and the voice of truth.” –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: IMF Executive Board Completes the Fourth Reviews Under the Extended Fund Facility and the Resilience and Sustainability Facility Arrangements and Approves US$13.7 Million Disbursement for Seychelles

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    June 16, 2025

    • The Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) completed today the fourth reviews of Seychelles’ economic performance under the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) and Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF) Arrangements. Completion of the reviews allows for an immediate disbursement of about US$13.7 million intended to strengthen macroeconomic stability, sustain growth, and reinforce fiscal and monetary policy frameworks, while also supporting efforts to strengthen resilience to climate change, exploit synergies with other sources of official financing, and catalyze financing for climate-related investments.
    • Economic growth for Seychelles in 2024 is estimated at 2.9 percent, reflecting lower dynamism in the tourism sector. Inflation remained subdued and fiscal performance was tighter than budgeted, driven mainly by underspending on capital expenditure. For 2025, economic growth is projected at 3.2 percent, reflecting slower growth projected for Europe—Seychelles’ most important tourism source market.
    • Performance under the EFF has been strong with all quantitative targets and structural benchmarks for end-December 2024 met. However, two SBs scheduled for 2025 have encountered minor delays due to capacity constraints. Progress has been satisfactory under the RSF implementation, and the authorities remain committed to the programs’ objectives.

    Washington, DC: The Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) completed today the fourth reviews of Seychelles’ economic performance under the 36-month EFF and RSF Arrangements approved on May 31, 2023. The completion of the reviews allows for the authorities to draw the equivalent of SDR 6.1 million (about $8.3 million) under the EFF and SDR 3.9 million (about $5.3 million) under the RSF, bringing total disbursements to SDR 30.5 million (about $41.7 million) and SDR 13.3 million (about $18.2 million) under the EFF and RSF, respectively.

    Economic growth for Seychelles in 2024 is estimated at 2.9 percent, slightly lower than earlier forecasts due to lower activity in the tourism sector. Year-on-year inflation reached 1.7 percent as of December, driven by an increase in utility prices and pass-through effects of currency depreciation. Fiscal performance was tighter than budgeted driven mainly by underspending on capital expenditure, with a  primary surplus equivalent to 3.2 percent of GDP in 2024. The Central Bank of Seychelles has maintained an accommodative monetary stance. The current account deficit widened to 7.9 percent of GDP in 2024, but gross international reserves increased to $774 million, equivalent to 3.8 months of imports or 115 percent of the Assessing Reserve Adequacy (or ARA) metric.

    EFF-supported program implementation has been strong. All quantitative program targets (QPCs) and structural benchmarks (SBs) for end-December 2024 were met. However, two SBs scheduled for the first half of 2025 have encountered minor delays due to capacity constraints. Progress has been satisfactory on RSF implementation. All reform measures (RMs) for March 2025 have been implemented. However,  one component of an RM scheduled for April 2025 (related to energy pricing and the issuance of a new multi-year electricity tariff system) is delayed and expected to be completed in November. The authorities requested minor modifications for two RMs slated for December 2025. 

    The outlook suggests low but stable growth for 2025 and beyond but is subject to considerable uncertainty. Real GDP growth is projected at 3.2 percent for 2025 compared to 4.3 percent at the previous reviews. The downward revision reflects slower a weaker outlook for tourist activity on the back of slower growth in Europe (Seychelles’ most important tourism source market). Year-on-year inflation is expected to moderate to 1.2 percent by end-2025 due to lower utility, fuel and food prices. Reserve coverage is expected to increase to 3.9 months of import cover in 2025. Near-term downside risks relate mainly to how slower global growth and higher uncertainty translate into tourism arrivals and spending.

    Going forward, continuation of prudent macroeconomic policies is paramount for maintaining resilience. The authorities’ near-term priorities are to support economic growth, strengthen fiscal and external positions, and maintain prudent monetary policy and a sound financial sector. In the medium-term, the authorities’ aim to continue a steady fiscal consolidation to reduce the ratio of public debt to GDP, while simultaneously improving the efficiency of public spending. Building capacity with respect to public financial management and financial sector supervision is another key focus. The structural reform agenda emphasizes revenue administration, public financial and investment management, climate change resilience, and governance improvements, including digitalization and transparency.

    Following the Executive Board’s discussion, Mr. Bo Li, Deputy Managing Director, and acting Chair, issued the following statement:

    “Seychelles has continued to demonstrate sound macroeconomic management and commitment to structural reforms. Lower than expected GDP growth for 2024 reflected lower tourism income and weakened performance in such sectors as accommodation, food services, and transportation. Fiscal outturns have been tighter than projected, reflecting delays in execution of capital projects, bottlenecks in public procurement, and civil service recruitment delays. Monetary policy remains accommodative in the face of low inflation. Good progress has been made on essential macrostructural reforms.

    “For the fourth reviews, program performance under the EFF was strong, with all quantitative program targets and structural benchmarks through end-December successfully met. Progress has also been satisfactory on RSF implementation, with all RMs through March implemented and only one component of an RM scheduled for April has been delayed. The authorities continue to implement an ambitious reform agenda and prudent fiscal and monetary policies in the face of an increasingly challenging external environment.

    “The authorities should remain vigilant with respect to near and medium-term risks as the outlook is subject to rising uncertainty. These include a slowdown in tourism activity due to slower growth projected for Europe—Seychelles’ most important tourism source market. Commodity price volatility could also feed through to inflation, while global trade tensions may reduce FDI and lead to tighter financial conditions. The EFF arrangement will continue to help protect macroeconomic stability and support stronger fiscal and external buffers, while advancing the authorities’ structural reform agenda.

    “The authorities are advancing with reforms under the RSF to enhance the climate-resilience of public investments, diversify financing, and strengthen assessment and disclosure of climate-related financial sector risk. Successful implementation of the reform agenda will enhance economic resilience and external financing risks by building institutional capacity for public investment in climate adaptation and diversifying Seychelles’ power generation capacity—reducing its dependence on imported energy. Continued collaboration with the IMF and other partners will be important to help fill capacity gaps and to mobilize climate finance.”

    Seychelles: Selected Economic and Financial Indicators, 2022-30
     
     

    2022

    2023

    		  

    2024

    		  

    2025

    2026

    2027

    2028

    2029

    2030
     

    Act.

    Prel.

    Proj.
     

    (Annual percent change, unless otherwise indicated)
                           

    National income and prices

    		                  

    Nominal GDP (millions of Seychelles rupees)

    28,807

    30,663

    		  

    31,643

    		  

    32,899

    34,464

    36,466

    38,841

    41,396

    44,121

    Real GDP (millions of Seychelles rupees)

    25,585

    26,163

    26,935

    27,808

    28,692

    29,662

    30,673

    31,731

    32,835

    Real GDP

    12.7

    2.3

    2.9

    3.2

    3.2

    3.4

    3.4

    3.4

    3.5

    CPI (annual average)

    2.6

    -0.9

    0.3

    1.0

    2.0

    2.6

    3.0

    3.0

    3.0

    CPI (end-of-period)

    2.5

    -2.7

    1.7

    1.2

    2.6

    2.8

    3.0

    3.0

    3.0

    GDP deflator average

    1.6

    4.1

    0.2

    0.7

    1.5

    2.3

    3.0

    3.0

    3.0
               
               

    Money and credit

    		            

    Broad money

    0.6

    5.8

    		  

    7.3

    		  

    7.0

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    Reserve money (end-of-period)

    -3.0

    -3.5

    		  

    -4.3

    		  

    -2.2

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    Velocity (GDP/broad money)

    1.2

    1.2

    		  

    1.2

    		  

    1.1

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    Money multiplier (broad money/reserve money)

    3.4

    3.7

    		  

    4.2

    		  

    4.6

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    Credit to the private sector 5

    4.0

    7.4

    		  

    12.1

    		  

    9.4

    9.1

    8.6

    8.4

    8.1

    8.0
                       
     

    (Percent of GDP, unless otherwise indicated)

    		    

    Savings-Investment balance

    		                      

    External savings

    7.5

    7.4

    7.9

    9.2

    9.2

    8.8

    8.4

    8.6

    8.8

    Gross national savings

    15.5

    17.3

    		  

    16.1

    		  

    16.6

    16.4

    16.9

    17.5

    17.3

    17.2

    Of which:  government savings

    1.2

    2.1

    		  

    3.3

    		  

    3.2

    2.5

    3.7

    4.6

    5.2

    5.4

    private savings

    14.4

    15.2

    		  

    12.8

    		  

    13.4

    13.9

    13.2

    12.9

    12.0

    11.8

    Gross investment

    23.1

    24.7

    		  

    24.0

    		  

    25.9

    25.6

    25.7

    25.9

    25.9

    26.0

    Of which:  public investment 1

    2.7

    4.2

    3.5

    5.3

    5.0

    5.1

    5.3

    5.3

    5.4

    private investment

    20.4

    20.5

    20.5

    20.6

    20.6

    20.6

    20.6

    20.6

    20.6

    Private consumption

    50.6

    49.4

    		  

    49.8

    		  

    48.6

    47.6

    48.0

    47.8

    48.9

    49.6
     

    (Percent of GDP)

    		    

    Government budget 

    		                  

    Total revenue, excluding grants

    30.0

    30.9

    		  

    33.4

    		  

    34.5

    34.3

    34.8

    35.0

    34.8

    34.7

    Expenditure and net lending

    31.6

    32.9

    		  

    33.9

    		  

    37.3

    37.2

    36.1

    35.7

    34.9

    34.7

    Current expenditure

    29.2

    29.2

    		  

    30.2

    		  

    31.6

    31.8

    31.0

    30.3

    29.6

    29.3

    Capital expenditure 1

    2.7

    4.2

    		  

    3.5

    		  

    5.2

    5.0

    5.1

    5.3

    5.3

    5.4

    Overall balance, including grants

    0.1

    0.2

    		  

    0.9

    		  

    -1.7

    -1.3

    -0.4

    0.1

    0.7

    0.7

    Primary balance

    1.0

    1.7

    		  

    3.2

    		  

    1.2

    1.8

    2.5

    2.9

    3.1

    3.1

    Total government and government-guaranteed debt 2

    62.6

    57.3

    		  

    59.6

    		  

    61.2

    61.8

    60.4

    56.8

    52.6

    49.0
                       

    External sector

    		                      

    Current account balance including official transfers
     (in percent of GDP)

    -7.5

    -7.4

    		  

    -7.9

    		  

    -9.2

    -9.2

    -8.8

    -8.4

    -8.6

    -8.8

    Total external debt outstanding (millions of U.S. dollars) 3

    5,471

    5,694

    		  

    5,945

    		  

    6,208

    6,428

    6,645

    6,585

    6,588

    6,620

     (percent of GDP)

    271.1

    260.3

    		  

    273.0

    		  

    283.8

    285.0

    282.9

    267.4

    255.0

    242.2

    Terms of trade (-=deterioration)

    -8.7

    -4.0

    		  

    2.1

    		  

    0.8

    -1.7

    -1.3

    -0.9

    -0.8

    -0.6

    Gross official reserves (end of year, millions of U.S. dollars)

    639

    682

    		  

    774

    		  

    817

    830

    862

    893

    956

    1,021

    Months of imports, c.i.f.

    3.1

    3.4

    		  

    3.8

    		  

    3.9

    3.8

    3.8

    3.8

    3.8

    3.9

    In percent of Assessing Reserve Adequacy (ARA) metric

    102

    105

    115

    118

    117

    118

    119

    124

    127

    Exchange rate

    		                      

    Seychelles rupees per US$1 (end-of-period)

    14.1

    14.2

    		  

    14.8

    		  

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    Seychelles rupees per US$1 (period average)

    14.3

    14.0

    		  

    14.5

    		  

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …
                       

    Sources: Central Bank of Seychelles; Ministry of Finance; and IMF staff estimates and projections.

      1 Includes onlending to the parastatals for investment purposes.

    		      

      2 Includes debt issued by the Ministry of Finance for monetary purposes.

    		          

      3 Includes private external debt.

    		            
    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Kwabena Akuamoah-Boateng

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

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/06/16/pr-25199-seychelles-imf-4th-rev-eff-rsf-apr-usd-13-point-7-mill

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China extends VAT refund policy for foreign tourists to new regions

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, June 16 (Xinhua) — Chinese authorities will implement a policy of refunding value-added tax (VAT) to foreign tourists leaving the country in northeast China’s Dalian City and central China’s Hubei Province from July 1, the Ministry of Finance said Monday.

    The policy allows foreign tourists to receive VAT refunds for eligible purchases made at covered stores before leaving China. Relevant regions can implement the policy after applying to relevant government agencies.

    China began implementing the VAT refund policy for foreign tourists upon exiting the country in 2015. Since then, the scale of the tax refund has increased annually, benefiting more and more overseas travelers.

    On April 27 this year, China adopted a package of measures to streamline this policy, including measures to lower the minimum purchase amount for refund, increase the maximum cash back amount, expand the network of participating stores, and expand the range of products covered by the return policy.

    In addition, China is promoting a VAT refund model at the time of purchase, allowing tourists to receive refunds directly at retail points of sale without waiting until they leave the country.

    According to official data, from April 27 to May 26, the number of exit VAT refund transactions processed by China’s tax authorities increased by 116 percent compared with the same period last year, while sales at eligible stores increased by 56 percent. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China urges US to stop forcing other countries to choose sides

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, June 16 (Xinhua) — China has always supported Latin American and Caribbean countries, including Panama, in upholding independence and self-reliance and opposing hegemonism, bullying and external interference, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said at a briefing on Monday.

    The diplomat made the statement while commenting on reports that the US Embassy in Panama announced future cooperation between the United States and Panama in installing seven new telecommunications towers using American technology to replace the previously installed equipment of the Chinese company Huawei. At the same time, Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino called on the US Embassy to refrain from making public statements regarding decisions made exclusively by the Panamanian government.

    As Guo Jiakun noted, the United States has long carried out surveillance and cyber attacks in Latin American and Caribbean countries, which has had a negative impact on the Western Hemisphere and made North and South American countries feel insecure.

    The official representative stressed that in developing friendly cooperation with Latin American and Caribbean countries, China always adheres to the principles of mutual respect, equality, mutual benefit, openness, inclusiveness and win-win cooperation. “China never seeks spheres of influence, does not engage in geopolitical rivalry, and certainly does not force other countries to take one side or another,” Guo Jiakun said.

    Noting that the Latin American and Caribbean region is not anyone’s backyard, the Chinese diplomat called on the United States to stop politicizing economic, trade and scientific and technological issues, interfering in other countries’ internal affairs, undermining their sovereignty and independence, forcing other countries to choose sides and restricting their cooperation with China, and instead focus on promoting peace, stability, development and prosperity in the region. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Breaking News: China Expects to Make Greater Contribution to Peace and Development in the Region and World Together with Kazakhstan Through Stability and Positive Energy in Bilateral Relations – Xi Jinping

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    ASTANA, June 16 (Xinhua) — China hopes to make greater contributions to peace and development in the region and around the world together with Kazakhstan through stability and positive energy in bilateral relations, Chinese President Xi Jinping said in Astana on Monday.

    As Xi Jinping noted, China and Kazakhstan should continue to support each other on issues affecting core interests and key concerns, and promote the alignment of development strategies.

    He called on the two countries to expand exchanges in law enforcement and defense, and jointly combat terrorism, separatism and extremism, adding that both sides should enhance connectivity, expand high-tech cooperation and promote green and sustainable development.

    Xi Jinping made the statement during talks with Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev ahead of the 2nd China-Central Asia Summit. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Urgent: China, Kazakhstan Should Practice Genuine Multilateralism and Safeguard Common Interests of Developing Countries – Xi Jinping

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    ASTANA, June 16 (Xinhua) — China and Kazakhstan should put genuine multilateralism into practice and protect the common interests of a wide range of developing countries, Chinese President Xi Jinping said in Astana on Monday.

    During talks with Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, the Chinese leader also called for both sides to firmly support the international system with the UN at its core and the international order based on international law amid the chaotic changes in the current international situation. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Lightning: Xi Jinping said China and Kazakhstan should practice genuine multilateralism and protect the common interests of developing countries

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    Xinhua | 16.06.2025

    Key words: China-Kazakhstan

    Source: Xinhua

    Lightning: Xi Jinping said China and Kazakhstan should practice genuine multilateralism and safeguard common interests of developing countries Lightning: Xi Jinping said China and Kazakhstan should practice genuine multilateralism and safeguard common interests of developing countries

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: Ukraine Confirms Receipt of Over 6,000 Bodies of Victims from Russia

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    Kyiv, June 16 /Xinhua/ — As part of the agreements reached at peace talks in Istanbul, Turkey, Ukraine has received 6,057 bodies from Russia, which the Russian side claims belong to Ukrainian servicemen, the Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War (CHPW) of Ukraine reported on Monday in its Telegram.

    The repatriation of remains took place in several stages. The final stage took place earlier on Monday. The bodies of 1,245 victims were handed over to Ukraine.

    Law enforcement agencies and expert services of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine will identify the returned remains.

    KSHVOV expressed gratitude to the International Committee of the Red Cross for assistance in the repatriation of bodies.

    The exchange of remains of the dead is part of the agreements reached on June 2 at peace talks between Ukraine and Russia in Istanbul. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: US cancels consultations with Russia on normalizing embassy work — Russian Foreign Ministry

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    Moscow, June 16 /Xinhua/ — The United States has cancelled a meeting with Russia as part of bilateral consultations on the normalization of embassy work, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said on Monday.

    “To date, the next meeting within the framework of bilateral consultations on eliminating “irritants” in order to normalize the activities of diplomatic missions of both countries has been cancelled at the initiative of American negotiators,” says a commentary published on the website of the Russian Foreign Ministry.

    M. Zakharova expressed hope that “the pause they have taken will not be too long.”

    On June 11, the press secretary of the Russian president Dmitry Peskov noted that the 3rd round of consultations between Russia and the United States on bilateral issues, planned for Moscow, will be carried out through diplomatic departments. According to him, there are many “blockages” in Russian-American relations, but the dialogue between the countries continues.

    On February 27 and April 10 of this year, two rounds of Russian-American consultations were held in Istanbul, Turkey, to eliminate “irritants” in order to normalize the activities of diplomatic missions of both countries. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Exclusive: Green economic development is one of the main areas of cooperation between China and Central Asia – Kyrgyz expert

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    Bishkek, June 16 /Xinhua/ — Green economic development is one of the main areas of cooperation between China and Central Asian countries, said Baktybek Saipbaev, a candidate of medical sciences and systems analyst from Kyrgyzstan, in an interview with Xinhua.

    According to him, the concepts of China and Central Asian countries in the field of green development coincide, implying, among other things, the transition to an energy-saving model of energy, to renewable energy resources and to energy that causes minimal damage to the environment.

    “Close cooperation between China and Central Asian countries in the field of green energy will contribute to strengthening bilateral relations and will also help Central Asian countries in sustainable development,” the expert noted.

    As B. Saipbaev emphasized, all these concepts are also common to China and Kyrgyzstan. The analyst stated that Chinese technologies of water conservation, economical irrigation of agricultural lands, in particular drip irrigation, and combating deforestation and desertification will greatly help Kyrgyzstan if China joins these issues and will develop cooperation in this area in every possible way.

    “If all these joint projects are successfully implemented, then Kyrgyzstan will be able to switch to low-carbon energy and economy. That is, such forms of cooperation will stimulate the low-carbon transformation of the economy of Kyrgyzstan,” the expert said.

    B. Saipbaev also noted that it would be a great help to the countries of Central Asia if China provided assistance in such an important issue as the creation of modern irrigation networks, namely in the construction of watertight canals, aqueducts and pipelines so that water reaches the fields with minimal losses.

    “From the point of view of sustainable development of Central Asian countries, China’s assistance in these areas is difficult to overestimate. China already plays a huge role in this, and it is getting stronger every year. In turn, thanks to this, Central Asian countries can implement large projects for electricity generation, carry out rational water use, and preserve nature,” the expert added. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China’s postal and courier sector records significant growth in volume of items processed in first five months of 2025

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    BEIJING, June 16 (Xinhua) — China’s postal and courier sector handled 86.18 billion packages from January to May 2025, up 17.6 percent year on year, data from the State Post Administration showed Monday.

    Express delivery services accounted for 78.77 billion of the total number of shipments, which is 20.1 percent more than in the same period last year.

    Revenue from China’s postal and courier sector also showed strong growth, increasing 8 percent year-on-year to 718.73 billion yuan (about 100.12 billion U.S. dollars) in the first five months.

    The significant increase in package deliveries is a sign of a thriving consumer market. According to the National Bureau of Statistics, China’s retail sales of consumer goods rose 5 percent year-on-year from January to May, compared with a 4.7 percent increase in the first four months of this year. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Russia has handed over more than 6,000 bodies of dead Ukrainian Armed Forces servicemen to Ukraine — Russian presidential aide

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    Moscow, June 16 /Xinhua/ — Russia has fulfilled the agreements reached in Istanbul and handed over to Ukraine 6,060 bodies of the killed servicemen of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU), said Vladimir Medinsky, aide to the Russian president and head of the Russian delegation at the talks with Ukraine, on Monday.

    “Russia has fulfilled the promises made in Istanbul: a total of 6,060 bodies of fallen officers and soldiers of the Ukrainian Armed Forces have been handed over to the Ukrainian side,” he wrote on his Telegram channel.

    V. Medinsky also noted that the bodies of 78 dead Russian soldiers were received from the Ukrainian side.

    This information was confirmed by the Russian Ministry of Defense. As noted in the military department’s Telegram channel, Russia fulfilled the agreements by implementing a “large-scale humanitarian action.”

    “We are ready at this stage to transfer another 2,239 bodies of deceased Ukrainian Armed Forces servicemen to the Ukrainian side,” the Russian Defense Ministry added.

    According to media reports, on June 11, Russia handed over 1,212 bodies of fallen soldiers to Ukraine, and from June 13 to 15, it handed over 1,200 bodies daily to Ukraine. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Russian and Turkish presidents condemn Israel’s operation against Iran in phone call

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    Moscow, June 16 (Xinhua) — Russian President Vladimir Putin and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan have condemned Israel’s operation against Iran. The leaders agreed that the relevant departments of the two countries will maintain close cooperation to resolve the situation through diplomatic means, according to a report on the telephone conversation between the two leaders posted on the Kremlin website on Monday.

    “The main focus is on the sharply aggravated situation in the Middle East. Vladimir Putin and Recep Tayyip Erdogan condemned Israel’s military action against Iran, undertaken in violation of the UN Charter and other norms of international law,” the statement said.

    “Both sides expressed the most serious concern about the ongoing escalation of the Iranian-Israeli conflict, which has already led to a large number of casualties and is fraught with serious long-term consequences for the entire region. The leaders spoke in favor of an immediate cessation of hostilities and the settlement of contentious issues, including those related to the Iranian nuclear program, exclusively by political and diplomatic means,” the Kremlin website notes.

    The leaders of Russia and Turkey also discussed the situation in Ukraine and exchanged views on current issues on the bilateral agenda, “including the energy sector.” –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The Year of China Tourism in Kazakhstan Opens in Astana

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    ASTANA, June 16 (Xinhua) — The opening ceremony of the Year of China Tourism in Kazakhstan was held on Monday at the National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan in Astana.

    At the ceremony, which was attended by about 300 guests, speeches were given by the Minister of Culture and Tourism of the People’s Republic of China Sun Yeli and the Minister of Tourism and Sports of Kazakhstan Erbol Myrzabosynov.

    On the same day, the exhibition “Silk and the Silk Road: from China to Kazakhstan” opened in the museum, which is the main event of the Year of China Tourism in Kazakhstan. Sun Yeli and E. Myrzabosynov cut the ribbon, opening the event.

    The exhibition will run until August 8. Its aim is to showcase the historical heritage and modern development of Silk Road culture, as well as the friendly exchanges and cultural integration between China and countries along the Silk Road. The exhibition is divided into three thematic parts: “Origin of Silk,” “Silk Road,” and “Use of Silk.”

    The opening ceremony of the Year of China Tourism in Kazakhstan also included various cultural events, fashion shows in the style of traditional Chinese clothing hanfu and events dedicated to intangible cultural heritage. The China Silk Museum and the National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan signed a memorandum of cooperation. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –