Source: The Conversation – USA – By Tatishe Nteta, Provost Professor of Political Science and Director of the UMass Amherst Poll, UMass Amherst
President Donald Trump signs an executive order barring transgender female athletes from competing in women’s or girls sporting events on Feb. 5, 2025, in Washington.AP Photo/Alex Brandon
Since becoming president, Donald Trump has aggressively sought to fulfill his campaign promise to reverse the Biden administration’s protection of transgender Americans.
Trump is not alone in attacking the rights of transgender Americans. In 2025, 53 bills have been introduced in the U.S. Congress and over 900 bills have been introduced in 49 states that aim to limit the rights of transgender Americans in education, health care and athletics, according to the Trans Legislation Tracker.
While legal and ethical questions remain about these efforts, restricting the rights of transgender Americans seems to enjoy support among a majority of Americans.
For example, support for restricting the ability of medical professionals from providing gender-affirming care to minors has risen from 46% in 2022 to 56% in 2025, according to the Pew Research Center.
We wanted to know what factors contribute to majority support among Americans for these measures. We found that authoritarian attitudes – the desire for social conformity and an aversion to difference – play an important role in Americans’ willingness to restrict transgender rights.
A member, left, of the Idaho Liberty Dogs, a far-right extremist group, argues with attendee Kimberly Rumph near the entrance of the first Pride festival ever held in Nampa, Idaho, on June 9, 2024. Kyle Green for The Washington Post via Getty Images
Preferring conformity, suppressing social difference
Here, we refer to authoritarianism not as a type of political system or the characteristics of a leader, but rather as a person’s preference for social conformity and desire to suppress social difference.
According to this perspective, the attack on transgender rights is intended to appeal to Americans with authoritarian inclinations. As seen in authoritarian regimes such as Russia and Turkey, political leaders first mobilize their citizens on the basis of their desire to suppress transgender individuals in order to advance a broader movement to undermine democracy and restrict the rights of other groups that fail to conform to majority values.
While this perspective is quickly gaining media coverage, there hasn’t yet been hard evidence that authoritarians are particularly supportive of anti-trans legislation. Our goal was to assess the link between authoritarian attitudes and support for measures that restrict transgender rights.
We are political scientists who study the role of authoritarianism in American politics and who field polls that explore Americans’ views on a number of pressing issues.
In April 2025, we fielded a nationally representative survey of 1,000 American adults, asking about their perceptions of the first months of the second Trump presidency, their views toward various groups in society, and their policy preferences. We also asked them for their views about restrictions on the provision of gender-affirming care to transgender Americans.
Here’s how we analyzed and interpreted their responses.
To measure authoritarianism, scholars use a scale that asks respondents to express their preferences for a range of child-rearing practices. The scale asks whether a respondent tends to prefer children who are obedient, well behaved and well mannered or children who are independent, creative and considerate. Those who tend to favor obedient children are scored as having more authoritarian views.
Child-rearing preferences seem to be unrelated to attitudes about conformity in society. But there is good reason to believe that an adult who prefers conformity, obedience and uniformity in children also desires the same in society at large.
This work consistently shows that individuals who are less authoritarian are more likely to support policies that recognize diverse views. Those who rank high on authoritarianism prefer policies that highlight social unity and conformity.
Thus, we expected that Americans with more authoritarian attitudes would more strongly support state laws that seek to restrict transgender Americans’ access to gender-affirming care.
In line with other polling on this issue, our survey found that a little over one-third of Americans – 36% – express support for legislation that would make providing gender-affirming medical care to transgender youth a crime. Among the remaining respondents, 38% expressed opposition, and 26% expressed ambivalence toward this proposal.
We looked at support for banning gender-affirming care by level of authoritarianism. We found clear differences between the most and least authoritarian Americans.
Among those who score highest on the authoritarian scale, 46% express support for this ban, with 18% in opposition. The remaining 36% responded “neither support nor oppose” this ban. Examining the views of Americans who exhibit the least authoritarian views, we find that while 21% support these bans, 61% oppose them and 18% expressed an ambivalent view.
Authoritarianism remains an important contributor to Americans’ support for a ban on gender-affirming care for transgender youth, even after we take into account other considerations that influence this attitude.
Republican partisanship, conservative ideology and religiosity all increase support for a ban on gender-affirming care. After accounting for these factors, as well as for characteristics such as education, income, age and knowing a transgender person, more authoritarian people are still more likely to support the ban.
The findings from our survey suggest that while partisanship, ideology and religiosity all play key roles in explaining the popularity of these policies, a missing piece of the puzzle is authoritarianism.
Given their aversion to diversity and difference and their preference for the status quo, Americans with authoritarian inclinations likely believe that transgender people pose a threat to the social order. Thus, they are more likely than Americans low in authoritarianism to support policies that seek to restrict transgender rights in order to restore social conformity.
It’s not clear whether the passage of anti-transgender policies alone will lead the nation to turn away from a largely diverse and open democracy toward a more closed and intolerant society. But the fight over transgender rights is not a sideshow in American politics. Instead, it is one of the first of many battles over diversity and difference that will determine the nation’s political future.
Jesse Rhodes has received funding from the National Science Foundation, the Demos Foundation, and the Spencer Foundation. He is a member of the American Civil Liberties Union.
Adam Eichen, Lane Cuthbert, and Tatishe Nteta do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
The Department of Health’s Centre for Health Protection (CHP), in collaboration with Guangdong and Macau’s health authorities, today conducted a public health exercise to enhance the capacity of the three places to co-operate in preventing and controlling communicable diseases during major sports events.
The exercise was held in preparation for the 15th National Games (15th NG), the 12th National Games for Persons with Disabilities (NGD), and the 9th National Special Olympic Games (NSOG), which will be co-hosted by Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macau this November and December.
The exercise simulated a scenario in which two players participating in the 15th NG basketball competition in Hong Kong were diagnosed with meningococcal infection while they were in the city. An epidemiological investigation revealed that some of their close contacts had already departed Hong Kong for Shenzhen and Macau.
In accordance with the established mechanism, Hong Kong immediately notified the health authorities of Guangdong and Macau. The three places’ health authorities promptly traced the cases and implemented appropriate infection control measures to prevent the spread of the communicable disease.
During the exercise, the CHP, together with the Guangdong Provincial Disease Control & Prevention Administration, the Guangdong Provincial Center for Disease Control & Prevention as well as Macau’s Health Bureau conducted a drill and exchanged views on communicable disease surveillance, prevention, control and notification mechanisms during the 15th NG, and 12th NGD and 9th NSOG via a video conference.
More than 30 officers from the three places’ health authorities participated in the exercise.
Director of Health Dr Ronald Lam gave a speech before the exercise started, noting that the 15th NG, and NGD and NSOG are the largest and highest-level national multisport events in the country.
Dr Lam said: “It is of great strategic significance for the health authorities of Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macau to jointly organise this exercise on communicable disease prevention and control at the countdown stage of the opening of the games.
“Through the simulation, we hope to achieve three major objectives: to strengthen the joint prevention mechanism of the three places; to build a solid risk identification defense; and to consolidate the foundation of event protection. This will allow the top athletes in the country to demonstrate the country’s sports prowess under a ‘zero significant outbreak, zero cross-infections’ condition, and showcase the country’s excellence in public health governance to the world.”
Dr Lam added that as Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macau are geographically and culturally connected, only through close collaboration can the three centres cope with major public health challenges.
Apart from the health authorities of the three places, representatives from the Medical & Health Office of the Comprehensive Security Department of the Guangdong Provincial Executive Committees for the 15th NG, NGD and NSOG, National Games Coordination Office (Hong Kong) as well as Hong Kong’s Auxiliary Medical Service, Fire Services Department and Hospital Authority also sent their staff to observe the exercise.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Glenn Thompson (5th District Pennsylvania)
COUDERSPORT, Pa. – U.S. Representative Glenn “GT” Thompson today announced that Mr. Lucas Gaston, of Brookville, Pa. has accepted a fully qualified appointment to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, N.Y.
Gaston is a senior at Brookville Area High School. He is the son of Becky and Mike Gaston of Brookville. He is the grandson of Hazel and Joe Gaston of Brookville and Nancy and Ted Fox of Brookville.
“Lucas is an exceptional young man who has distinguished himself in the classroom, in athletics, and throughout his community,” Rep. Thompson said. “His achievements speak to a deep sense of purpose and a readiness to meet the challenges of the United States Military Academy. I have no doubt that he will thrive at West Point, and I wish him the very best as he begins this exciting new chapter.”
Gaston is currently serving as the Secretary of his class. He is a track and field and golf athlete, participates in the concert and marching band, is a Special Olympics Volunteer, and a member of the National Honor Society.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao hold public health exercise in preparation for hosting 15th NG, NGD and NSOG Issued at HKT 18:35
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health, in collaboration with the health authorities of Guangdong Province and Macao, today (June 11) conducted a public health exercise, code-named “Jingfeng”, to enhance the capacity of the three places to co-operate in preventing and controlling communicable diseases during major sports events. The exercise was held in preparation for the 15th National Games (15th NG), the 12th National Games for Persons with Disabilities (NGD), and the 9th National Special Olympic Games (NSOG), which will be co-hosted by Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao this November and December.
The exercise simulated a scenario in which two players participating in the 15th NG basketball competition in Hong Kong were diagnosed with meningococcal infection while they were in the city. An epidemiological investigation revealed that some of their close contacts had already departed Hong Kong for Shenzhen and Macao respectively. In accordance with the established mechanism, Hong Kong immediately notified the health authorities of Guangdong and Macao. The health authorities of the three places promptly traced the cases and implemented appropriate infection control measures to prevent the spread of the communicable disease.
During the exercise, the CHP, together with the Guangdong Provincial Disease Control and Prevention Administration, the Guangdong Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention and the Health Bureau of Macao conducted a drill and exchanged views on communicable disease surveillance, prevention, control and notification mechanisms during the 15th NG, and 12th NGD and 9th NSOG via a video conference. More than 30 officers from the health authorities of the three places participated in the exercise.
Before the commencement of the exercise, the Director of Health, Dr Ronald Lam, gave a speech. “The 15th NG, and NGD and NSOG are the largest and highest-level national multisport events in the country. It is of great strategic significance for the health authorities of Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao to jointly organise this exercise on communicable disease prevention and control at the countdown stage of the opening of the Games. Through the simulation, we hope to achieve three major objectives: to strengthen the joint prevention mechanism of the three places; to build a solid risk identification defense; and to consolidate the foundation of event protection. This will allow the top athletes in the country to demonstrate the country’s sports prowess under a ‘zero significant outbreak, zero cross-infections’ condition, and showcase the country’s excellence in public health governance to the world,” he said.
Dr Lam added that since its establishment, the CHP has organised a total of 32 emergency response exercises and drills, simulating human cases of avian influenza, measles, plagues and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome. As Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao are geographically and culturally connected, only through close collaboration can the three centres cope with major public health challenges. In the future, the three places will continue to strengthen joint efforts in the prevention and control of communicable diseases. They will maintain communication and collaboration on aspects such as the prevention and control of communicable diseases, and the development of the public health system, with a view to enhancing global health safety standards. They will also fulfil the tripartite co-operation agreement on public health emergencies and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Health Cooperation Consensus.
Apart from the health authorities of the three places, representatives from the Medical and Health Office of the Comprehensive Security Department of the Guangdong Provincial Executive Committees for the 15th NG, NGD and NSOG, National Games Coordination Office (Hong Kong) of the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the Auxiliary Medical Service, the Fire Services Department and the Hospital Authority have also sent their staff to observe the exercise.
Salt Lake City, Utah, June 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TruGolf Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: TRUG), a leading golf technology company, has announced that it has executed a definitive agreement to acquire mlSpatial, a renowned AI and machine learning engineering firm. This strategic acquisition aims to advance the integration of artificial intelligence within TruGolf’s industry-leading products, including the Apogee Launch Monitor, Launchbox, Multisport Arcade, and E6 Apex.
The collaboration between TruGolf and mlSpatial began in March 2024 with a licensing agreement to co-develop an AI engine enhancing the 9-axis spin accuracy of TruGolf’s Apogee Launch Monitor. Building upon this successful partnership, the full acquisition of mlSpatial will enable TruGolf to seamlessly incorporate advanced AI technologies across its entire product suite, delivering unparalleled user experiences, training suggestions, and player insights.
“We are very excited to bring mlSpatial and its AI and machine learning technology into the TruGolf family,” said Chris Jones, TruGolf CEO. He continued, “Acquiring mlSpatial marks a significant milestone in our commitment to revolutionize golf simulation through cutting-edge AI integration. This acquisition empowers us to explore innovative applications of AI across our ecosystem, enhancing realism and interactivity for our users while lowering development costs.”
Josh Pomazal, founder of mlSpatial, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition: “We’re excited to leverage TruGolf’s extensive real-time data, collected daily, to continually refine our products with the advanced machine learning and AI models we’ve developed over the years.”
This acquisition solidifies our deep commitment to innovation and aligns with the broader industry trend of significant investments in AI infrastructure. Notably, in January 2025, President Donald Trump announced a private-sector initiative, the Stargate Project, aiming to invest up to $500 billion in AI infrastructure within the United States. This substantial investment underscores the rapid progress and importance of AI technologies across various sectors.
TruGolf’s acquisition of mlSpatial positions the company at the forefront of AI-driven innovation in golf simulation, promising enhanced performance and immersive experiences for enthusiasts worldwide.
TruGolf is a golf technology company, committed to making golf, easy. From innovative uses for AI to build content and enhance its image and spatial analysis, to gamified golf improvement plans, TruGolf is an industry leader in the growing technological revolution in the sport of golf. Since its founding, TruGolf has redefined what is possible in golf through technology. TruGolf’s suite of Hardware, Software, and Web Products make it easier to Play, Improve, and Enjoy the game of golf.
Forward-Looking Statements
Some of the statements in this release are forward-looking statements, which involve risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements include, without limitation, whether the Company’s compliance plan will be accepted by Nasdaq and the Company’s expected future cash needs. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable as of the date made, expectations may prove to have been materially different from the results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. The Company has attempted to identify forward-looking statements by terminology including ”believes,” ”estimates,” ”anticipates,” ”expects,” ”plans,” ”projects,” ”intends,” ”potential,” ”may,” ”could,” ”might,” ”will,” ”should,” ”approximately” or other words that convey uncertainty of future events or outcomes to identify these forward-looking statements. These statements are only predictions and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors. Any forward-looking statements contained in this release speak only as of its date. The Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this release to reflect events or circumstances occurring after its date or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. More detailed information about the risks and uncertainties affecting the Company is contained under the heading “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K and subsequently filed Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K filed with the SEC, which are available on the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov.
Media Contacts:
TruGolf: Michael Bacal: Phone: 917-886-9071; mbacal@darrowir.com Web: TruGolf.com LinkedIn: @TruGolf
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
LCQ9: Provision of sports facilities Question:
While the Government has indicated that it has all along been committed to promoting “Sports for All”, there are views pointing out that there has been a persistent short supply of sports venues of the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD), and in particular, popular sports facilities such as badminton courts and basketball courts are in high demand. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Following is a question by the Hon Chan Yung and a written reply by the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Miss Rosanna Law, in the Legislative Council today (June 11):
Question:
There are views that the official public debut of Hong Kong’s first pair of locally born giant panda twins, elder sister Jia Jia and little brother De De, has sparked a new wave of “panda fever” in the city, which is currently home to six giant pandas, and the authorities should seize this opportunity to develop the panda tourism industrial chain, promote the growth of the panda tourism and related industries in Hong Kong. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
(1) since Hong Kong became home to six giant pandas, whether the authorities have compiled statistics on the direct economic benefits they have brought to Ocean Park; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;
(2) whether the authorities have compiled statistics on the direct and indirect economic benefits brought to Hong Kong as a whole by the six giant pandas respectively (including the sales of panda merchandise and revenue growth across various trades and industries); if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; and
(3) whether the Government has further plans for the future to promote the healthy and sustainable development of the panda tourism and related industries in Hong Kong, e.g. Ocean Park’s subsequent plans to optimize facilities and services, as well as budget arrangements, or plans to develop the panda tourism industrial chain in collaboration with various trades and industries; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?
Reply:
President,
The reply to the questions raised by the Hon Chan Yung is as follows:
The giant pandas An An and Ke Ke made their debut on December 8, 2024 at the Hong Kong Jockey Club Sichuan Treasures at Ocean Park, followed by the debut of the pigeon pair of giant panda twin cubs Jia Jia and De De on February 16, 2025 at the “Giant Panda Adventure” of the park. They have been well received by both locals and visitors, and Ocean Park’s attendance has since then increased by around 19 per cent over the same period last year. Together with giant pandas Ying Ying and Le Le, the Hong Kong giant panda family has brought additional revenue to Ocean Park by way of admission tickets, merchandise, etc. The Ocean Park Corporation’s overall financial performance for its Financial Year (FY) 2024-25, including the revenues on admission, food and beverages as well as merchandise in the same FY, will be reported in its 2024-25 Annual Report.
First Minister announces changes to Ministerial team.
Tackling the housing emergency will be at the heart of the Scottish Cabinet, First Minister John Swinney has announced.
Màiri McAllan has been appointed as Cabinet Secretary for Housing upon her return to government from maternity leave. Ms McAllan has responsibility for all aspects of housing policy, including heat in buildings.
This appointment will ensure government action is focused on tackling the housing emergency and providing energy efficient homes for the future – helping stimulate economic growth, deliver Net Zero commitments and tackle child poverty.
Gillian Martin has been appointed as Cabinet Secretary for Climate Action and Energy, having held the portfolio during Ms McAllan’s maternity leave.
Following the death of Christina McKelvie in March, Maree Todd will become Minister for Drugs and Alcohol Policy, while retaining her existing responsibility for Sport. Tom Arthur has been appointed as Minister for Social Care and Mental Wellbeing.
Housing Minister Paul McLennan has requested to leave the Scottish Government and he does so today. Acting Minister for Climate Action Alasdair Allan will leave Government at the end of this week, having indicated that he only wished to serve on an interim basis.
Excluding the Law Officers, the overall size of government reduces to 23, down from 27 in May 2024.
First Minister John Swinney said:
“Scotland’s strengths lie in our people, our communities and our resolve to leave a better future, and better country for the next generation. As First Minister, I am firmly focused on leading a government that unlocks the potential for every person in Scotland to thrive.
“I have made changes to the Cabinet which will further enable us to realise that potential. Màiri McAllan has been tasked with tackling the housing emergency, including ensuring we have energy efficient homes to help bring down bills and tackle the climate emergency. These are two of the biggest challenges facing people across the country and I want them to know they have a government firmly on their side and focused on delivering real change.
“Following the sad passing of Christina McKelvie, I have asked Maree Todd to take on responsibility for Drugs and Alcohol Policy. This government has shown it is not afraid to take bold measures to prevent harm and death, and we must redouble our efforts.
“I want to thank Paul McLennan and Alasdair Allan for the service they have provided to me, the government and to the people of Scotland. They both held two very important Ministerial appointments in housing and climate action and have helped to drive forward progress in tackling two issues which are central to Scotland’s long-term success as a nation.”
Background
The changes mean the Scottish Cabinet now consists of twelve, the majority of whom are women. Further changes mean the Ministerial team reduces to eleven, from fourteen.
The Scottish Cabinet is as follows:
First Minister John Swinney
Deputy First Minister, with responsibility for Economy and Gaelic, Kate Forbes
Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Local Government Shona Robison
Cabinet Secretary for Education and Skills Jenny Gilruth
Cabinet Secretary for Justice and Home Affairs Angela Constance
Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice Shirley-Anne Somerville
Cabinet Secretary for Transport Fiona Hyslop
Cabinet Secretary for Housing Màiri McAllan
Cabinet Secretary for Climate Action and Energy Gillian Martin
Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Land Reform and Islands Mairi Gougeon
Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care Neil Gray
Cabinet Secretary for Constitution External Affairs and Culture Angus Robertson
Màiri McAllan has been on maternity since 1 July 2024. Gillian Martin was acting Cabinet Secretary Net Zero and Energy, with Alasdair Allan temporarily assuming responsibility for Climate Action. Màiri McAllan maternity cover – gov.scot
Tom Arthur was previously Minister for Employment and Investment. His investment responsibilities will be assumed by Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes, while Richard Lochhead’s extended responsibilities see him become Minister for Business and Employment.
Paul McLennan has left government today. Alasdair Allan will leave his post at end of this week.
Source: Rosneft – Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Rosneft employees organized patriotic events to mark one of the main state holidays – Russia Day. Oil workers organize volunteer, environmental and sports initiatives, creative events and Days of National Cultures.
In Khanty-Mansiysk Autonomous Okrug-Yugra, Samotlorneftegaz volunteers organized an intellectual quiz called “Russia is a Generous Soul”. Participants demonstrated excellent knowledge of the country’s history and geography, biographies of statesmen and outstanding scientists, literary and artistic figures. The drawing master class “Soul of Russia”, which was organized as part of the volunteer project “Creative Mentor”, aroused great interest. Participants painted landscapes of their native places on canvas, most of them dedicated their works to the nature of the Samotlor field, which is celebrating its 60th anniversary.
Workers and veterans of RN-Nyaganneftegaz took part in the “Round Dance of Friendship”. Hundreds of oil workers in national costumes, holding hands, walked along the central street of the city of Nyagan, demonstrating the unity and ethnocultural diversity of the peoples living in the region.
In the Tyumen region, in one of the largest parks in Tyumen, employees of RN-Uvatneftegaz ran five kilometers with the Russian flag. Not only oil workers took part in the race, but also their relatives, who also decided to express a sense of pride in their country.
In Yamal, young specialists from ROSPAN International held a charity event called “Goodness Fair” on the eve of the holiday. They presented hand-made products. The proceeds were used to purchase everything necessary for the wards of the Novy Urengoy Society of Disabled People.
Employees of SevKomNeftegaz and activists of the youth Movement of the First held a bike quest in Gubkinsky. Moving along the city streets, the teams completed tasks related to the history and culture of Russia.
Volunteers from Kharampurneftegaz introduced the team to the national traditions of our country and the cuisines of the peoples living in it – Russian dishes and tea drinking traditions, customs of the Turkic peoples with a tasting of traditional echpochmak, chak-chak, kystybay.
In Krasnoyarsk Krai, oil workers from RN-Vankor organized a photo exhibition about the achievements of the largest oil-producing enterprise in the region. The exhibition clearly demonstrates the enterprise’s contribution to the development of the region, talks about the development of a large-scale oil-producing production complex in the north of the region, environmental initiatives and the preservation of biodiversity in the territory of presence, volunteer and patriotic events.
Achinsk Oil Refinery held a bike ride through the iconic patriotic places of the city of Achinsk. The column with the Russian tricolor included young specialists of the plant, students of the sponsored Oil and Gas Technical School and activists of the All-Russian “Movement of the First”.
In the Irkutsk Region, the Angarsk Petrochemical Company held a patriotic event among children vacationing in a summer camp at the corporate sanatorium “Rodnik”. More than 100 children recited poems about the Motherland and sang the Russian anthem. In a mass flash mob, children lined up in the colors of the Russian tricolor and performed a fiery dance to the song “Mother Earth”. The organizers of the event also told the children about the symbols of unity and independence of our country.
Members of the running club of the Rosneft Research and Design Institute in Tomsk took part in the city’s patriotic race. In the relay, the athletes passed a ribbon in the colors of the Russian tricolor.
On Sakhalin, Sakhalinmorneftegaz-Shelf employees celebrated Russia Day with a family sports festival and a mini-football tournament. Children participated in interactive master classes prepared for them by the company’s volunteers. The celebration ended with a mass action with the Russian flag.
In the Samara Region, volunteers from the Syzran Oil Refinery, together with school graduates, planted 80 birches in school gardens. Young trees decorated the territory of School No. 28. Last year, for the first time in 70 years of operation, the building underwent major repairs as part of the Cooperation Agreement between PJSC NK Rosneft and the Government of the Samara Region.
Volunteers of the Novokuibyshevsk Oil Refinery together with the Russian Society “Knowledge” held a series of intellectual video lectures on the technological leadership of our country in the children’s health camp named after Yuri Gagarin. The children learned about the main successes and achievements of Russian industry, science, medicine, agriculture, sports, culture and education. The plant workers in an interactive format introduced the children to the history of the enterprise, with the biographies of the plant’s builders who made a significant contribution to the development of the oil industry.
Orenburgneft held a master class on creating drawings about the Motherland in the Orenburg Region. A professional artist helped participants depict a field of blooming sunflowers on canvas – a symbol of the steppe region. In the reading club of the city of Buzuluk, literature lovers held a discussion about artistic techniques for expressing love for the Motherland using the example of great works of Russian classics.
In the Ryazan region, employees of the Ryazan Oil Refining Company took part in the quiz “Experts of Russia”. They answered questions on history, geography, as well as the culture and traditions of Russia.
In the Saratov Region, volunteers from the Saratov Oil Refinery organized a sports and patriotic festival for students in grades 3-4 of the Aviator Gymnasium. The children were told about the state symbols and history of the country. The plant workers also held a master class in football. Football players from the plant team, winner of the qualifying round of the XX Summer Sports Games Rosneft and winner of the Romantsev Cup, taught the children how to act as a single team in various sports. At the end of the festival, all participants were presented with memorable souvenirs in the colors of the Russian tricolor.
About a hundred employees of NK Rosneft-Stavropol climbed 1,400 meters and unfurled the Russian flag on the top of Mount Beshtau, the highest point in the Caucasian Mineral Waters. The oil workers also organized a festival of “Cuisines of the Peoples of Russia” with the study of recipes and tasting of dishes from different regions.
The employees of RN-Chernozemye organized a festival of national cultures with folk costumes, a photo zone, performance of patriotic and folk songs, and dishes from the cuisine of different nations. White doves were released into the sky, symbolizing peace, freedom, and prosperity of Russia.
Festive events and activities united thousands of oil workers, representatives of different faiths and nationalities in different regions, and became a symbol of the unity of the peoples of our country.
Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft June 11, 2025
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.
Fun for Just £1 This Summer at Derry and Strabane Leisure Centres
6 June 2025
Families across Derry and Strabane can look forward to an action-packed summer as the Council launches its exciting seasonal programme of activities – all at unbeatable value.
Returning again this year is the hugely popular £1 Summer Offer, running from 1st July to 31st August. This initiative gives young people under 18 access to a wide range of daytime activities – all for just £1 – at Council leisure centres across the city and district.
Available from Monday to Friday until 5pm, the offer includes swimming and a variety of court and pitch-based activities such as:
Tennis
Badminton
5-a-side football
Table tennis
Basketball
Squash
Selected pitch activities (T&Cs apply)
The initiative is part of Council’s wider sports development programme, aimed at encouraging children and young people to stay active, try new sports, and enjoy healthy fun throughout the summer – without breaking the bank.
Karen McFarland, Director of Health and Community at Derry City and Strabane District Council, said:
“The £1 Summer Scheme offers a fantastic variety of activities to keep children and young people engaged, active, and entertained throughout the holidays. It’s a great way for them to discover new interests while staying healthy and having fun.
Importantly, the affordable £1 price point helps ease the financial pressure on families looking to keep their kids busy over the summer break.”
The scheme will be available at the following Council leisure centres:
Bishops Field
City Baths
Foyle Arena
Brooke Park Leisure Centre
Derg Valley Leisure Centre
Melvin Sports Complex
Riversdale Leisure Centre
Templemore Sports Complex
Please note: Activities must be booked on the day of play. Advance bookings are not available.
Separate from the £1 Summer Scheme offer, children and young people can also avail of the Council’s Intensive Swim Lessons over the summer months. Online and in-house enrolment will be available from the following times next week:
Monday 9th June
Foyle Arena – Online from 9am, inhouse from 10am
City Baths – Online and inhouse from 11am
Tuesday 10th June
Templemore Sports Complex – Online from 9am, inhouse from 10am
Riversdale Leisure Centre – Online from 9am, inhouse from 10am
Mayor McHugh looking forward to welcoming West Indies cricketers to Derry and Strabane
11 June 2025
Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Councillor Ruairí McHugh, is looking forward to welcoming the West Indies international cricket team to the Council area this week for their three game Twenty20 series with Ireland at Bready Cricket Club.
The games are taking place on June 12th, 14th and 15th at the Magheramason club and Mayor McHugh will attend the opening game on Thursday before hosting a civic reception in the Guildhall for both teams on Friday.
The North West Cricket Union have received Council’s National Events Fund to help host the event and Council’s Environment team have also provided floral arrangements, hanging baskets and planters for the games.
“I am delighted to see world class cricket returning to Derry and Strabane with the arrival of the West Indies team for these three high profile games,” said Mayor McHugh.
“The North West Cricket Union have shown great ambition in developing Bready Cricket Club as an international level ground and it’s a valuable opportunity for us to showcase our region as a host for elite level sports events.
“The event will attract thousands of visitors to the City and District over the weekend and millions of viewers across the world so the positive impact it will have for our hospitality sector and on our international profile is significant.”
The games will all begin at 3pm and tickets, priced at £15 each, are available to buy now on the Cricket Ireland website at cricketireland.ie
From 6-29 June, 12 locations across Sunderland and Tyne and Wear will be open to receive donations of unwanted sports kit and active wear that will be gifted to local children, young people and families.
Kit Out Sunderland will help the planet by providing individuals and community youth and sports organisations across the area with the opportunity to see their new or unwanted sports kit and active wear given a new life, rather than stay in the bottom of a wardrobe or end up in landfill.
The donations will then be sorted in early July and distributed to children, young people and families through local groups, supporting local people be more active this summer and beyond.
Kit Out Sunderland is a collective partnership between Active Sunderland, RISE, Sported, StreetGames and Youth Sport Trust, with sponsorship from the North East Combined Authority.
The partners are working together to reduce barriers to participation in sport and physical activity locally, whilst reducing the environmental impact of sports kit and active wear. Striving to have healthier, safer, and more active communities.
Donation points will be open at various locations from 6-29 June, with special requests for sports and active leisure tops, hoodies and tracksuits, leggings and joggers, waterproofs, trainers and football boots which are new or in a clean and useable condition.
Special donation stations will also be open at the Nissan manufacturing plant for Nissan employees to donate their sports kit and active wear.
Donations will be sorted by young volunteers from Sunderland College and the Foundation of Light once the collection window closes on 29 June, before local youth and sports organisations distribute the donations to local children, young people and families accessing their services.
A full list of public donation stations is available below:
· Sunderland Aquatic Centre
· Ford Football Hub
· Downhill Football Hub
· Washington Football Hub
· Raich Carter Sport Centre
· Silksworth Community Pool, Tennis and Wellness Centre
· Houghton Sports Centre
· Hetton Community Pool and Wellness Centre
· Washington Leisure Centre
· Beacon of Light
· Sunderland City Hall
· Sunderland College
Cabinet Member for Communities, Culture and Tourism at Sunderland City Council, Councillor Beth Jones, said: “This is a fantastic way of giving a new lease of life to unwanted sports kit.
“It helps both those who want to get active but don’t have the kit and those who have it but no longer need it.
“We’re delighted it’s happening in Sunderland and our thanks go all the partners who are hosting donation boxes.”
Director of Skills, Inclusion & Public Service Reform, Charlotte Carpenter, said: “Sport and physical activity has so much to offer from a mental, physical and social health perspective, so to see organisations in the region working together to reduce barriers to participation is something we are delighted to support and fund as part of our mission to reduce child poverty.
“We encourage everyone who lives, works and visits the Sunderland area to consider donating where they can and help us to create a better community for all.”
Strategic Lead for Children and Young People’s Health and Wellbeing at Rise North East, Louise Laws, said: “There’s an amazing buzz in Sunderland right now and this is a great chance to boost that even more.
“Donating new or recycled sports kit and active clothing/footwear that you don’t need helps local children, young people and families in your community and also helps the environment, because it doesn’t go to waste or end up in landfills.
“Once we sort the kit, it’ll go to local people so that they can get more active and really improve their health and wellbeing, because every child and young person has the right to play and be active. We look forward to continuing to build relationships to empower the community to sustain and upscale this offer, wider.”
Sported Regional Manager for the North East, Kathryn Foley, said: “Sported’s network of clubs and groups across the North East support local participants to be active and take part in sport every week.
“It’s exciting that we can take this opportunity through Kit Out Sunderland to benefit local people and the environment through distributing unwanted kit, and I look forward to seeing the items donated and distributed through our Sported network members.”
StreetGames North East Network Lead, Anna Coulson, said: “Working with Locally Trusted Organisations on a daily basis we know there is so much amazing work happening around the city to provide a year-round, multi-sport offer to young people but despite this some young people still cannot access it due to not having the appropriate sports kit.
“We have worked with some of these organisations to really understand what is needed within their communities and we hope this initiative will help young people to become physically active into the future! We also wanted to ensure that sports kit gets a full life and doesn’t end up in landfill!”
VICTORIA, Seychelles, June 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget, the leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company, has released a May 2025 report for its user security fund called the Protection Fund, which hit a new peak valuation of $725.1 million in May, marking its highest level since inception. The fund, designed to safeguard user assets in extreme market conditions, showed steady growth throughout the month, with an average monthly valuation of $673.5 million.
Originally launched with a $300 million reserve, the fund has grown by over 140%, aligned with the appreciation of BTC holdings and Bitget’s strategic focus on market insurance. The fund’s value fluctuates in accordance with the price of Bitcoin, with May’s performance boosted by BTC trading above $110,000 on multiple occasions.
Graph of Bitget Protection Fund Valuation in May 2025
This level of capital reserve positions Bitget among the top exchanges globally in terms of user asset security through on-chain protection mechanisms.
As volatility continues to define the broader crypto environment, the rise in fund valuation serves as a key signal of resilience. The increase shows the effectiveness of holding reserves in BTC and the confidence in the long-term fundamentals of the asset.
Bitget continues to publicly disclose regular snapshots of the Protection Fund wallet to maintain transparency. The reserve remains untouched and unleveraged, offering users a layer of reassurance against incidents such as platform breaches, asset freezes, or unforeseen events affecting trading integrity.
Launched in 2022 with an initial allocation of $300 million, the Protection Fund has more than doubled in size, bolstered by Bitget’s steady platform growth and smart financial management. Bitget’s security framework is built on a comprehensive, multi-layered approach that goes well beyond its multi-million dollar Protection Fund and over 100% Proof of Reserves.
With monthly Merkle Tree audits verifying full asset backing and ISO 27001:2022 certification asserting best-in-class protocols, the platform integrates SSL encryption and an advanced risk control system that actively monitors suspicious activity. This combination of rigorous standards and real-time protection has kept Bitget breach-free since 2018 and contributed to its AAA security rating and helped reinforce user confidence to set a benchmark for transparency across the industry.
With institutional and retail attention on risk management intensifying, the growing scale of Bitget’s Protection Fund is an integral part of the platform’s strength.
For more information and monthly updates on the Protection Fund, visit here.
About Bitget
Established in 2018, Bitget is the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company. Serving over 120 million users in 150+ countries and regions, the Bitget exchange is committed to helping users trade smarter with its pioneering copy trading feature and other trading solutions, while offering real-time access to Bitcoin price, Ethereum price, and other cryptocurrency prices. Formerly known as BitKeep, Bitget Wallet is a leading non-custodial crypto wallet supporting 130+ blockchains and millions of tokens. It offers multi-chain trading, staking, payments, and direct access to 20,000+ DApps, with advanced swaps and market insights built into a single platform. Bitget is at the forefront of driving crypto adoption through strategic partnerships, such as its role as the Official Crypto Partner of the World’s Top Football League, LALIGA, in EASTERN, SEA and LATAM markets, as well as a global partner of Turkish National athletes Buse Tosun Çavuşoğlu (Wrestling world champion), Samet Gümüş (Boxing gold medalist) and İlkin Aydın (Volleyball national team), to inspire the global community to embrace the future of cryptocurrency.
Risk Warning:Digital asset prices are subject to fluctuation and may experience significant volatility. Investors are advised to only allocate funds they can afford to lose. The value of any investment may be impacted, and there is a possibility that financial objectives may not be met, nor the principal investment recovered. Independent financial advice should always be sought, and personal financial experience and standing carefully considered. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. Bitget accepts no liability for any potential losses incurred. Nothing contained herein should be construed as financial advice. For further information, please refer to ourTerms of Use.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for a National Convention on Friday, the 15th of August 2025, which will represent the diversity of the South African nation and set the agenda for the National Dialogue.
The National Dialogue is an initiative that has been in discussion by a number of leaders in the country and many other people for some time now.
“This National Convention will represent the diversity of the South African nation. The first National Convention will set the agenda for the National Dialogue.
“It will be a representative gathering, bringing together government, political parties, civil society, business, labour, traditional leaders, religious leaders, cultural workers, sports organisations, women, youth and community voices, among others,” the President said on Tuesday.
The initiative has been gathering support and enthusiasm since it was proposed last year and has been endorsed by a wide range of formations across society.
Over the last few months, government has been engaged in discussions with various entities on the purpose and the form of the dialogue.
WATCH | Announcement of the National Dialogue
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“In the wake of these consultations, there is broad agreement that given the challenges our country is facing at the moment, we should convene the National Dialogue. The idea of holding a dialogue is not a new concept in our country. In many ways having dialogues is part of our DNA as a nation.
“At every important moment in the history of our country, we have come together as a nation to confront our challenges and forge a path into the future in dialogue with one another. Through dialogue we were able to deal with the challenges that the apartheid system caused in our country and achieved peace and overcame violence. We established a democracy and ended apartheid,” the President said.
Following the negotiations process, he explained that dialogue was used to start building a united nation where once there had only been conflict and division.
He said the country achieved all this because everyone came together in dialogue to discuss difficulties, concerns, hopes and inspiration as a people. The country has worked together for more than 30 years to realise the promise of a democratic Constitution.
Challenges
Additionally, progress has been made in expanding freedom, deepening democracy, and improving the lives of millions, while also recognising the persistent challenges that remain. Poverty, unemployment and inequality are “deep wounds” that prevent the nation and country from reaching its full potential.
“Millions of people are under-employed and unemployed. Many of those who work earn wages that cannot sustain them or their families. Crime, gender-based violence and corruption are prevalent across our society.
“We are therefore called upon at this moment to direct all our efforts to build a thriving, inclusive economy that creates jobs and opportunities. We are called upon to build safer communities and to create a better future for our children.
“We are also called upon to give all sectors of our society – men and women, young and old, persons with disabilities, LGBTQI [lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and intersex] community, and urban and rural people – a voice to determine how we address the problems of today and build the South Africa we want for future generations. That is why we have agreed to convene an inclusive National Dialogue,” he said.
Shared vision
The dialogue will be a people-led, society-wide process to reflect on the state of the country in order to reimagine the future.
“Through the National Dialogue, we seek a shared vision of what it means to be a South African and develop a new national ethos and common value system.
“It is an opportunity to forge a new social compact for the development of our country, a compact that will unite all South Africans, with clear responsibilities for different stakeholders, government, business, labour, civil society, men and women, communities and citizens,” the President said.
The dialogue is expected to accelerate progress towards Vision 2030 and help lay the groundwork for the next phase of the National Development Plan.
He emphasised that the dialogue is not a single event, but rather a phased, participatory process beginning with local consultations and sector-specific discussions and culminating in provincial and national engagements.
Through various political, social and other formations, in workplaces, places of worship, communities, villages and sites of learning, South Africans will in the months following the National Convention be encouraged to be in dialogue to define the nation’s path into the future.
“The views, concerns and proposals that will emerge from this conversation will be brought together at a second National Convention, that is planned to be held in the beginning of next year.
“This second National Convention will reinforce our shared values and adopt a common vision and programme of action for our country into the future,” he said.
The President said he expects that the National Convention will finalise a compact that outlines the roles and responsibilities of all South Africans.
Eminent Persons Group
To guide and champion the National Dialogue, the President has appointed an Eminent Persons Group.
He said these are leading figures in society, reflecting the country’s diversity with a proven commitment to the advancement of social cohesion and nation-building.
The members of the group are: • Dr Brigalia Bam, former Independent Electoral Commission Chairperson, • Mr Robbie Brozin, entrepreneur and business person, • Judge Edwin Cameron, former Constitutional Court judge, • Mr Manne Dipico, former Northern Cape Premier, • Dr Desiree Ellis, Banyana Banyana coach and football legend, • Ms Ela Gandhi, peace activist and stalwart, • Prof Nomboniso Gasa, researcher and rural activist, • Mr Bobby Godsell, business leader, • Dr John Kani, award-winning actor, • Mr Siya Kolisi, Springbok captain and world champion, • Ms Mia le Roux, Miss South Africa 2024, • His Grace Bishop Barnabas Lekganyane, leader of the Zion Christian Church, • His Grace Bishop Engenas Lekganyane, leader of the St Engenas Zion Christian Church, • The Most Reverend Thabo Makgoba, Anglican Archbishop of Cape Town, • Prof Tinyiko Maluleke, Chairperson of the National Planning Commission, • Dr Barbara Masekela, poet, educator and stalwart, • Ms Lindiwe Mazibuko, former Member of Parliament, • Mr Roelf Meyer, former Minister and constitutional negotiator, • Ms Gcina Mhlope, storyteller, writer and actor, • Ms Nompendulo Mkhatshwa, student activist and former Member of Parliament, • Ms Kgothatso Montjane, Grand Slam tennis champion, • Prof Harry Ranwedzi Nengwekhulu, former activist and educationist, • Mr Bheki Ntshalintshali, unionist and former COSATU General Secretary, • Hosi Phylia Nwamitwa, traditional leader, • Kgosi Thabo Seatlholo, chairperson of the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders, • Dr Gloria Serobe, business leader, • Dr Imtiaz Sooliman, founder of the Gift of the Givers, • Prof Derrick Swartz, academic, • Ms Lorato Trok, author and early literacy expert, • Mr Sibusiso Vilane, mountaineer and adventurer, • Mr Siyabulela Xuza, award-winning rocket scientist.
The President added that UBaba uShembe uNyazi LweZulu has also been invited to join the Eminent Persons Group, but, as he is travelling, has not yet been able to confirm his availability.
“I am grateful to each of these South African patriots who have made themselves available to act as the guarantors of an inclusive, constructive and credible process,” he said.
IMC
An Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) has been established under the chairpersonship of Deputy President Paul Mashatile to coordinate government’s contribution to the National Dialogue.
The President said a Steering Committee will be established, comprised of representatives of various sectors of society, to set strategic priorities and coordinate implementation of the dialogue process.
The Secretariat, which is responsible for day-to-day management of National Dialogue activities, will be housed at NEDLAC, the National Economic Development and Labour Council.
“As a nation, we are embarking on a new path of partnership and united action. We are drawing on our traditions of dialogue and debate. We are determined to define a shared vision of a nation which belongs to all South Africans united in their diversity,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Athletes compete during the 2025 Beijing Youth Curling Competition held at the National Aquatics Center, Beijing. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]
The 2025 Beijing Youth Curling Competition drew to a successful conclusion this weekend at the National Aquatics Center, following the preliminary round on June 1-2. The event serves as a qualifier for this year’s citywide youth curling championship.
With 150 athletes representing 13 district teams across Beijing, the event stood out as the largest curling competition hosted at the venue’s underground ice sports arena so far this year.
As well as offering a stage for young athletes to showcase their skills and connect with one another, the event also played a key role in promoting curling among youngsters and fostering the next generation of talent.
Athletes compete during the 2025 Beijing Youth Curling Competition held at the National Aquatics Center, Beijing. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]
Backed by professional facilities and quality services, the venue’s underground Ice Sports Center ensured smooth event execution. Since the Beijing 2022 Winter Games, the venue has hosted 19 curling events at different levels, leveraging its dual-Olympic legacy to foster the growth of the sport.
Moving forward, the venue will continue to offer comprehensive, one-stop services for curling, develop well-structured and systemic training programs, and support the growth of professional curling competitions and talent development.
At Samsung Chennai plant, the workday recently took on a cheerful new twist. Amidst buzzing production lines and changing shifts, laughter and cheers echoed around the newly inaugurated Multi-Sports Arena. The occasion?
The much-anticipated Gully Premier League—a cricket tournament designed not just to bring sports into the factory but to spark joy, nostalgia, and togetherness among workers.
More than just a game, this initiative is part of Samsung’s larger mission to build a Great Place to Work, celebrating the spirit of collaboration and play across all shifts and teams.
Cricket, but Make it Gully Style
Forget stadiums and white kits. Here, cricket is played the gully way—with deft flicks and swinging deliveries, hand-made scoreboards, enthusiastic commentary from colleagues, and rules that changed with the wind and umpire’s sense of humour. The format was simple and inclusive:
Each shift could nominate one team of six players
Larger departments could nominate more teams
All shift employees were encouraged to participate
The response was electrifying—48 teams, 72 league matches, and 288 employees who left their work shoes at the door and stepped into sneakers and spirit.
“I haven’t played cricket since school. But the moment I picked up the bat, it all came rushing back,” said Karthik from Washing Machine Line. “The crowd, the cheers, the chaos—it felt like home.”
Making Room for Everyone
What made this league even more special was the focus on the sense of togetherness. Alongside the main matches, there are dedicated categories being planned for all lines—ensuring everyone felt welcomed on the pitch.
Gopi, from Refrigerator Line, said, “It wasn’t just about who hit the most runs or took the best catch. It was about seeing a usually quiet colleague take on captaincy, or someone from admin stepping in as a last-minute substitute and bowling the match-winning over.”
New Grounds, New Bonds
The Gully League also marked the inauguration of the new Multi-Sports Arena, a vibrant space that now stands as a symbol of wellness, fun, and shared purpose. From laughter-filled team huddles to last-ball thrillers, the Arena quickly became the new favourite hangout for employees.
“For me, the best part was the crowd. People from all shifts came to watch, cheer, and even bring snacks,” said Sivabalan from the Smart Facility Group (SFG). One team even had cheer slogans printed for fun. We all forgot the Chennai heat and just had a blast.”
Bringing Samsung Values to Life
Events like the Gully Premier League aren’t just recreational—they reflect Samsung’s core values: People, Excellence, Change, Integrity, and Co-Prosperity. They encourage employees to lead with energy, grow through collaboration, and build bonds beyond the workstation.
“It’s easy to say we’re one team. But on the field, you feel it,” said Srinath from R&D team. “We high-fived, strategized, laughed—and went back to work feeling lighter.”
And the Game Goes On
With 24 teams moving into the knockout stage, anticipation is building up for the quarterfinals, semifinals, and the much-awaited grand finale. And while one team will eventually lift the trophy, everyone walks away with memories, smiles, and a stronger sense of belonging.
So, here’s to the gully spirit that brings us closer—and many more innings of fun, teamwork, and friendly banter at Samsung!
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Thiago Almada struck late as Argentina salvaged a 1-1 home draw against Colombia in their FIFA World Cup qualifier on Tuesday.
Liverpool forward Luis Diaz gave the visitors the lead against the run of play when he cut inside from the left wing and skipped past three defenders before coolly firing a shot past Emiliano Martinez.
The host was forced to play the last 25 minutes with 10 men after Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez was shown a straight red card for a dangerous challenge on Kevin Castano.
Despite its numerical disadvantage, Argentina continued to dictate terms and pushed forward in search of an equalizer.
Lyon midfielder Almada put his side on level terms nine minutes from time by receiving Exequiel Palacios’ pass and advancing into the box before drilling a low effort into the far corner.
Reigning World Cup champion Argentina, which is already assured of a place at football’s showpiece tournament next year, remains top of South America’s qualifying group with 35 points, 13 ahead of sixth-placed Colombia.
The top six teams earn direct entry to the World Cup while the seventh-ranked side advances to a playoff.
Argentina will meet Venezuela and Ecuador in its last two qualifiers in September while Colombia will confront Bolivia and Venezuela.
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and the First Lady also Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Museveni have this afternoon participated in the ongoing mass registration and renewal exercise of the National Identity cards at State Lodge, Nakasero.
The project is being implemented by the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) and the renewal exercise was efficiently conducted by a team from the authority, led by the Executive Director, Ms. Rosemary Kisembo.
The registration of citizens is regarded as a crucial component of national security, ensuring that every individual is accounted for within the nation’s identity framework. Enhanced biometric technology associated with these ID cards provides a reliable and unalterable means of establishing identity.
This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to strengthening national identity systems and fostering socio-economic transformation.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Uganda.
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 11 (Xinhua) — Wudalianchi City Publicity Department of the CPC Wudalianchi Municipal Committee in northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province said that events in the field of popular science and cultural exchanges between Chinese and Russian youth were held in Wudalianchi from June 4 to 5, 2025.
On the evening of June 4, the opening ceremony was held at the Wudalianchi Cultural and Sports Center, where young people from the two countries in national costumes presented dance and song numbers. The melodic sounds, combined with the rhythmic performances of the kuaiban (recitative accompanied by an instrument made of bamboo planks), conveyed youthful enthusiasm and passion to the applause of the audience.
During the events, the participants visited the city’s science and technology museum, where they immersed themselves in the world of space and conducted experiments with interactive exhibits. Then, at Xinrui Primary School, the Russian guests viewed an exhibition of creative projects, watched a show of robots and aircraft models, and tried their hand at Chinese calligraphy and playing traditional Chinese instruments. Then the participants learned about the principles of volcano formation, as well as the unique geological structure and evolution of the region.
During the two-day exchange, the youth of the two countries not only enriched their scientific knowledge, but also laid a solid foundation for friendship. -0-
VICTORIA, Seychelles, June 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget, the leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company is excited to share that Gracy Chen, CEO of Bitget, has been featured in CoinDesk’s 2025 list of the Top 50 Women in Web3 and AI, an esteemed recognition that celebrates influential leaders shaping the future of digital finance and technology. The annual list accumulates leaders across blockchain, crypto, and artificial intelligence who are advancing innovation and inclusion in emerging tech sectors.
Among the top ten honorees, Chen stands alongside industry luminaries such as Daniela Amodei of Anthropic, Anima Anandkumar of Caltech, Teana Baker‑Taylor of Venice.ai, MIT’s Regina Barzilay, Hedera’s Betsabe Botaitis, Société Générale’s Stéphanie Cabossioras, Trust Wallet’s Eowyn Chen, BlackRock’s Samara Cohen, Coinbase’s Emilie Choi, and Delphine Forma from Solidus Labs along with forty other exceptional women.
Compiled through a rigorous and inclusive process, the list was curated by CoinDesk’s editorial team in consultation with a diverse panel of women leaders from organizations including Google, Spotify, and the Association of Women in Crypto. Over 300 nominations from around the world were evaluated, with finalists chosen for their innovation, influence, and relevance in shaping Web3 and AI’s next chapter.
Chen stands out not only as the sole woman CEO among the top 10 global crypto exchanges, but also as the leader behind Bitget’s global growth. Since taking over the role of CEO in May 2024, she has steered the platform through a phase of accelerated growth. Under her leadership, Bitget has grown its user base from 20 million to over 120 million users globally, placing it firmly among the top three exchanges by trading volume worldwide.
Her tenure has been marked by a strategic shift that broadened Bitget’s offerings well beyond derivatives. Today, the platform features world-class capabilities in spot trading, a thriving Launchpad and Launchpool ecosystem, AI-powered copy trading, asset management tools, and a widely adopted self-custody wallet through Bitget Wallet. Chen also plays an active role in expanding institutional relationships and securing high-impact partnerships that deepen Bitget’s footprint across key markets.
Outside of product and business development, Chen has made social responsibility a strong pillar of her leadership agenda at Bitget. She leads a $10 million Blockchain4Her (B4H) initiative, which was started to address gender equity in the blockchain industry. The initiative focuses on supporting women builders, developers, and entrepreneurs through education, funding, mentorship, and access to the global Web3 ecosystem. As a delegate to the UN Women CSW conference, Chen also brings critical Web3 perspectives to global discussions on gender and technology. Her background spans over a decade of experience in investment, entrepreneurship, and tech leadership.
Gracy Chen’s inclusion in CoinDesk’s Top 50 Women in Web3 and AI reflects her accomplishments in scaling Bitget into a multi-dimensional Web3 platform, and her growing influence in shaping a more inclusive future for the crypto industry.
About Bitget
Established in 2018, Bitget is the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company. Serving over 120 million users in 150+ countries and regions, the Bitget exchange is committed to helping users trade smarter with its pioneering copy trading feature and other trading solutions, while offering real-time access to Bitcoin price, Ethereum price, and other cryptocurrency prices. Formerly known as BitKeep, Bitget Wallet is a leading non-custodial crypto wallet supporting 130+ blockchains and millions of tokens. It offers multi-chain trading, staking, payments, and direct access to 20,000+ DApps, with advanced swaps and market insights built into a single platform. Bitget is at the forefront of driving crypto adoption through strategic partnerships, such as its role as the Official Crypto Partner of the World’s Top Football League, LALIGA, in EASTERN, SEA and LATAM markets, as well as a global partner of Turkish National athletes Buse Tosun Çavuşoğlu (Wrestling world champion), Samet Gümüş (Boxing gold medalist) and İlkin Aydın (Volleyball national team), to inspire the global community to embrace the future of cryptocurrency.
Risk Warning:Digital asset prices are subject to fluctuation and may experience significant volatility. Investors are advised to only allocate funds they can afford to lose. The value of any investment may be impacted, and there is a possibility that financial objectives may not be met, nor the principal investment recovered. Independent financial advice should always be sought, and personal financial experience and standing carefully considered. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. Bitget accepts no liability for any potential losses incurred. Nothing contained herein should be construed as financial advice. For further information, please refer to ourTerms of Use.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Following is a question by the Hon Holden Chow and a written reply by the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Miss Rosanna Law, in the Legislative Council today (June 11):
Question:
In the 2017 Policy Address, the Government proposed the “Five-Year Plan for Sports and Recreation Facilities” to launch 26 projects to develop new and improve existing sports and recreation facilities. However, the Government indicated in its reply to a question raised by a Member of this Council on the Estimates of Expenditure 2025-2026 that four out of such 26 projects are still under planning. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
(1) in respect of the aforesaid four projects still under planning, of (i) the dates when they were proposed, and (ii) the time lag to date since their proposal (set out in a table);
(2) as the Government has advised that among the aforesaid four projects, the project of Sports Ground and Open Space with Public Vehicle Park in Area 16, Tuen Mun (TMA16 Project) can only proceed after the depots of two franchised bus companies currently at the site concerned are relocated, and that the Government will actively co-ordinate in expediting the implementation of the depot relocation plans for the two franchised bus companies, of the latest progress of the relevant work, and how the Government will push forward the commencement of the TMA16 Project; and
(3) whether it will consider proceeding to tendering for the engagement of engineering consultants for the TMA16 Project as the first step, so as to kick-start the engineering design and submission of the planning applications as early as possible, thereby compressing the overall timeline of the project; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?
Reply:
President,
The Government announced in the 2017 Policy Address the “Five-Year Plan for Sports and Recreation Facilities” with a view to commencing 26 projects to increase and improve sports and recreation facilities. Among which, 13 projects have been opened or partially opened for public use while four projects are still under planning. Having consulted the relevant policy bureaux and departments, my reply to the questions raised by the Hon Holden Chow is set out below:
(1) In order to make optimal use of land resources, the Government announced in the 2018 Policy Address that the principle of “single site, multiple uses” would be adopted when implementing public works projects. In view of the public demand for parking spaces in the relevant districts, the Government has proposed to incorporate public vehicle parks into four sports and recreation facility projects under planning to meet the public needs for sports and recreation facilities and alleviate the demand for parking spaces in the districts concerned. The latest progress of the four projects is set out below:
Project
Date of obtaining support from the District Council (DC) upon revision of the proposed project facilities
Number of years since the date of obtaining support from the DC and current progress (up to 2025)
Sports Ground and Open Space with Public Vehicle Park in Area 16, Tuen Mun (TMA16 Project)
Support was obtained from Tuen Mun DC in February 2019
Around six years
The relevant site is currently used for several temporary purposes, including bus depots of the Kowloon Motor Bus Company (1933) Limited (KMB) and the Citybus Limited (Citybus), the Tuen Mun Training Ground and Testing Centre of the Construction Industry Council, as well as a fee-paying public vehicle park. The two bus companies have preliminarily identified new sites and submitted their applications for short-term tenancy (STT) to the Lands Department with a view to relocating their bus depots and returning the site for taking forward the project.
Football-cum-Rugby Pitch with Public Vehicle Park in Area 33, Tai Po
Support was obtained from Tai Po DC in November 2018.
Around six years
The Government consulted the DC about the conceptual design of the project on September 4, 2024.
“Design and build” (D&B) model will be adopted for the project. The Government will take the project forward in accordance with public works procedures.
Sports Facilities with Public Vehicle Park in Tung Tau Industrial Area, Yuen Long
Support was obtained from Yuen Long DC in January 2019.
Around six years
D&B model will be adopted for the project. The Government will take the project forward in accordance with public works procedures.
Open Space with Public Vehicle Park in Area 17, Tuen Mun
Support was obtained from Tuen Mun DC in June 2019
Around six years
The Government has engaged a consultant to undertake the design and planning applications for the project.
The Government will continue to review the order of priority of works projects under planning and update their works schedules as appropriate for using public resources more effectively.
(2) Regarding the TMA16 Project, relevant government departments have been actively assisting franchised bus operators in identifying sites for relocating the bus depots so as to vacate the site early for taking forward the project. Both the KMB and Citybus have submitted STT applications to the Lands Department for the use of government sites at the southern and northern ends of Ho Wo Street respectively for relocating the bus depots currently located at Area 16, Tuen Mun. The site at the southern end of Ho Wo Street was handed over to the KMB in March 2025. The KMB will carry out site formation and associated works as soon as practicable to expedite the commencement of the new bus depot thereat.
As for the site at the northern end of Ho Wo Street which Citybus has applied for, its underground drainage facilities pose certain technical constraints on the use of the land, including the feasibility of setting up petrol stations and vehicle-washing machines at the site. In this regard, relevant government departments are actively liaising with Citybus and exploring possible solutions. Upon the granting of STT, Citybus will commence the preparatory work for relocating its bus depot.
Relevant bureaux and departments will continue to co-ordinate and assist the two bus companies in the relocation exercise to ensure that the bus depots can be moved out and the site can be cleared as soon as practicable. Meanwhile, other preparatory work will continue to be carried out so that the works can be commenced immediately after the tender exercise is completed and funding approval is obtained from the Finance Committee of the Legislative Council.
(3) To implement the TMA16 Project, the Government will adopt the D&B model under which bids for design works and building works will be invited under a single contract. The successful contractor is required to engage construction and design teams to carry out detailed design for the project simultaneously to shorten the overall construction period as well as make best use of its expertise and experience on building materials and construction techniques to enhance the design quality and cost-effectiveness of the project.
Today, I wish to address you about the National Dialogue, an initiative that has been in discussion by a number of leaders in our country and many other people for some time now.
This initiative has been gathering great support and enthusiasm since it was proposed last year. It has been endorsed by a wide range of formations across society.
Over the last few months, we have been engaged in discussions with various entities on the purpose and the form of the National Dialogue.
In the wake of these consultations, there is broad agreement that given the challenges our country is facing at the moment, we should convene the National Dialogue.
The idea of holding a dialogue is not a new concept in our country. In many ways having dialogues is part of our DNA as a nation.
At every important moment in the history of our country, we have come together as a nation to confront our challenges and forge a path into the future in dialogue with one another.
Through dialogue we were able to deal with the challenges that the apartheid system caused in our country and achieved peace and overcame violence.
We established a democracy and ended apartheid.
Following the negotiations process, we used dialogue to start building a united nation where once there had only been conflict and division.
We achieved all this because we came together in dialogue to discuss our difficulties, our concerns, our hopes and our aspirations as a people.
For more than 30 years, we have worked together to realise the promise of our democratic Constitution.
We have made great strides as a nation, expanding freedom, deepening democracy and building a better life for millions.
Yet we face persistent challenges.
Poverty, unemployment and inequality are deep wounds that prevent us from reaching our full potential as a nation and as a country.
Millions of people are under-employed and unemployed. Many of those who work earn wages that cannot sustain them or their families.
Crime, gender-based violence and corruption are prevalent across our society.
We are therefore called upon at this moment to direct all our efforts to build a thriving, inclusive economy that creates jobs and opportunities.
We are called upon to build safer communities and to create a better future for our children.
We are also called upon to give all sectors of our society – men and women, young and old, persons with disabilities, LGBTQI community, and urban and rural people – a voice to determine how we address the problems of today and build the South Africa we want for future generations.
That is why we have agreed to convene an inclusive National Dialogue.
The dialogue will be a people-led, society-wide process to reflect on the state of our country in order for us to reimagine our future.
The National Dialogue is a chance for all South Africans, from all walks of life, to come together and help shape the next chapter of our democracy.
Through the National Dialogue, we seek a shared vision of what it means to be a South African and develop a new national ethos and common value system.
It is an opportunity to forge a new social compact for the development of our country, a compact that will unite all South Africans, with clear responsibilities for different stakeholders, government, business, labour, civil society, men and women, communities and citizens.
It is anticipated that the National Dialogue will drive progress towards our Vision 2030 and lay the foundation for the next phase of South Africa’s National Development Plan.
The National Dialogue itself is not an event.
Rather, it will be a participatory process that unfolds in phases, from local consultations and sectoral engagements to provincial and national gatherings.
In my capacity as the Head of State, I will be calling a National Convention on Friday, the 15th of August 2025.
This National Convention will represent the diversity of the South African nation. The first National Convention will set the agenda for the National Dialogue.
It will be a representative gathering, bringing together government, political parties, civil society, business, labour, traditional leaders, religious leaders, cultural workers, sports organisations, women, youth and community voices, among others.
Through their various political, social and other formations, in their workplaces, in places of worship, communities, villages and sites of learning, South Africans will in the months following the National Convention be encouraged to be in dialogue to define our nation’s path into the future.
The views, concerns and proposals that will emerge from this conversation will be brought together at a second National Convention, that is planned to be held in the beginning of next year.
This second National Convention will reinforce our shared values and adopt a common vision and programme of action for our country into the future.
We expect that the National Convention will finalise a compact that outlines the roles and responsibilities of all South Africans.
To guide and champion the National Dialogue, I am appointing an Eminent Persons Group.
These are leading figures in our society, reflecting the great diversity of our nation, with a proven commitment to the advancement of social cohesion and nation-building.
The members of the Eminent Persons Group are: • Dr Brigalia Bam, former Independent Electoral Commission Chairperson, • Mr Robbie Brozin, entrepreneur and business person, • Judge Edwin Cameron, former Constitutional Court judge, • Mr Manne Dipico, former Northern Cape Premier, • Dr Desiree Ellis, Banyana Banyana coach and football legend, • Ms Ela Gandhi, peace activist and stalwart, • Prof Nomboniso Gasa, researcher and rural activist, • Mr Bobby Godsell, business leader, • Dr John Kani, award-winning actor, • Mr Siya Kolisi, Springbok captain and world champion, • Ms Mia le Roux, Miss South Africa 2024, • His Grace Bishop Barnabas Lekganyane, leader of the Zion Christian Church, • His Grace Bishop Engenas Lekganyane, leader of the St Engenas Zion Christian Church, • The Most Reverend Thabo Makgoba, Anglican Archbishop of Cape Town, • Prof Tinyiko Maluleke, Chairperson of the National Planning Commission, • Dr Barbara Masekela, poet, educator and stalwart, • Ms Lindiwe Mazibuko, former Member of Parliament, • Mr Roelf Meyer, former Minister and constitutional negotiator, • Ms Gcina Mhlope, storyteller, writer and actor, • Ms Nompendulo Mkhatshwa, student activist and former Member of Parliament, • Ms Kgothatso Montjane, Grand Slam tennis champion, • Prof Harry Ranwedzi Nengwekhulu, former activist and educationist, • Mr Bheki Ntshalintshali, unionist and former COSATU General Secretary, • Hosi Phylia Nwamitwa, traditional leader, • Kgosi Thabo Seatlholo, chairperson of the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders, • Dr Gloria Serobe, business leader, • Dr Imtiaz Sooliman, founder of the Gift of the Givers, • Prof Derrick Swartz, academic, • Ms Lorato Trok, author and early literacy expert, • Mr Sibusiso Vilane, mountaineer and adventurer, • Mr Siyabulela Xuza, award-winning rocket scientist.
UBaba uShembe uNyazi LweZulu has also been invited to join the Eminent Persons Group, but, as he is travelling, has not yet been able to confirm his availability.
I am grateful to each of these South African patriots who have made themselves available to act as the guarantors of an inclusive, constructive and credible process.
An Inter-Ministerial Committee has been established under the chairpersonship of the Deputy President to coordinate government’s contribution to the National Dialogue.
We will be establishing a Steering Committee, comprised of representatives of various sectors of society, to set strategic priorities and coordinate implementation of the National Dialogue process.
The Secretariat, which is responsible for day-to-day management of National Dialogue activities, will be housed at NEDLAC, the National Economic Development and Labour Council.
As a nation, we are embarking on a new path of partnership and united action.
We are drawing on our traditions of dialogue and debate. We are determined to define a shared vision of a nation which belongs to all South Africans united in their diversity.
The Office of the Deputy President of the Republic of South Africa wishes to provide clarity regarding Deputy President Paul Mashatile’s international travel expenses which has recently gained much attention in the media, with reports and commentary coming from News24, City Press, Sunday Times/Timeslive, SowetanLIVE, Independent Media/IOL, The Citizen, BusinessLive, ENCA and others. Categorically, the office and the Deputy President have not, as seems to be suggested, misused State funds or been extravagant in financing the costs of the Deputy President’s international travel.
This unprecedented matter which involves the international work of the Deputy President’s travel costs, was first raised by Action SA, a political party represented in Parliament, in a written question to the Deputy President. In light of such an expected phenomena, the Deputy President replied to the question in full and also provided specific details which include; correct figures and breakdown of individual costs by members of the delegation supporting the Deputy President.
The Office of the Deputy President wishes to reiterate that Deputy President Mashatile undertakes all international working visits, not in his personal capacity but on behalf of the South African Government as delegated by President Cyril Ramaphosa. Moreover, the majority of these strategic international visits are aimed at strengthening existing bilateral, political, economic and diplomatic relations between South Africa and visited countries.
As part of South Africa’s global investment drive, and commitment to contribute to global peace and stability, South Africa, through the President and Deputy President as well as Ministers, have a role to play in advancing the global agenda, an aspect of which includes engagements with counterparts in other countries. For instance, the Deputy President co-chairs the SA-China BNC with Vice President Han Zheng and many other delegated countries including, but not limited to Vietnam and South Sudan.
In summary, in the comprehensive answer to the Parliamentary Question by Action SA, it was stated that since Deputy President Mashatile assumed office on 3 July 2024, he has undertaken the following International official visits:
• Ireland and United Kingdom Working Visits 26 September – 4 October 2024: Ireland 26 – 29 September 2024 and United Kingdom Working 30 September – 4 October 2024 • Standing for President Cyril Ramaphosa and the Republic of South Africa at the Inauguration of the President of Botswana, H.E Duma Boko on 8 November 2024 • Standing for President Ramaphosa and South Africa at the Extraordinary SADC Summit held on 20 November 2024 in Harare, Zimbabwe • Japan Working Visit 16 – 19 March 2025 • France Working Visit 19 – 24 May 2025
The Working Visit to Japan in particular, being the one raised by most media, was of strategic importance to South Africa, as it focussed on strengthening political, economic and social areas of cooperation between the two countries. The Working Visit came at the back of the two nations celebrating 115 years of strong diplomatic relations. The Deputy President was accompanied by Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ms Thandi Moraka; the Minister of Sport, Arts, and Culture, Mr Gayton McKenzie; the Minister of Higher Education, Dr Nobuhle Nkabane; the Minister of Agriculture, Mr John Steenhuisen; the Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Mr Parks Tau, and the Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Ms Nomalungelo Gina.
In addition, the Japan Working Visit achieved several key objectives including representing the first high-level engagement between South Africa and Japan in the last 10 years; signalling an acknowledgement and appreciation for the long-standing relationship between the two countries based on a wide area of cooperation not limited to trade and investment. This visit was beneficial in terms of South Africa’s African Agenda, the current confluence of South Africa’s G20 Chairship and Japan’s hosting of the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) in August, presenting a unique opportunity for South Africa to communicate its own and the continent’s position and priorities to Japan and the expected support and role that Japan could to play in this regard.
Finally, in our response to Parliament, the office has provided a breakdown of the cost to Government of all individual members of the delegation supporting the Deputy President. Regrettably, some of the figures presented by the media are significantly blown out of proportion and do not accurately reflect the cost of the trips. For example, one media liaison officer, referred to by Timeslive as the “most expensive supporting official”, is said to have cost R580, 582 for Japan alone, when in fact the total cost for that official is less than R66 000 including flights and accommodation.
While the cost of international travel is generally very high, these figures must always be seen in the context of their original currency in relation to the Rand Dollar exchange, as well as the going rate of such travel expenses, including ground transport, accommodation and flights.
In terms of the travel policy in the Presidential Handbook, transport for the President and Deputy President during travel outside South Africa is the responsibility and for the account of the State. Accommodation and incidental expenses of the President and Deputy President whilst on all official journeys abroad is arranged through, and paid for, by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation. The logistics and choice of accommodation is not the responsibility or competency of the Office of the Deputy President or Presidency. In fact, DIRCO plays an integral role in reviewing, advising and endorsing Government Delegation compositions, ensuring that participation aligns with formal policy guidelines that emphasise relevance, necessity, and cost-effectiveness. These guidelines reflect government directives aimed at optimising resource allocation while maintaining operational effectiveness during international engagements.
Regarding the financial aspects of the visits, responsibility for travel, accommodation, and other miscellaneous expenses is generally shared among DIRCO and other participating departments, depending on the officials’ affiliations and roles. Prior to the visit, DIRCO oversees the processing of budget submissions or cost estimates to ensure compliance with approved spending frameworks. This includes strict adherence to National Treasury guidelines on international travel, the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) and other precepts governing public expenditure.
In all these visits, the Office of the Deputy President has insisted on the most cost-effective provisions for the Deputy President and his delegations, and has therefore not misused nor extravagantly used State funds as alluded.
Media enquiries: Mr Keith Khoza, Acting Spokesperson to the Deputy President on 065 195 8840
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
As part of ACT Government’s ‘One Government, One Voice’ program, we are transitioning this website across to our . You can access everything you need through this website while it’s happening.
Released 11/06/2025 – Joint media release
The ACT Government is making a significant investment in the safety and wellbeing of victim survivors, with over $30 million committed in the 2025–26 Budget to strengthen and expand the Territory’s response to domestic, family and sexual violence.
This investment boosts the capacity of frontline services, enhances early intervention efforts for children and young people, and supports the provision of culturally safe support through Aboriginal Community Controlled and led Organisations.
Treasurer Chris Steel said the Budget reflects the Government’s deep commitment to addressing domestic, family and sexual violence and delivering trauma-informed, person-centred support for those affected by violence.
“Everyone deserves to feel safe in their homes, in their relationships, and in their community,” the Treasurer said.
“This significant investment in family, domestic and sexual violence responses builds on our record of funding vital frontline services and supports a safer, stronger Canberra.”
The Budget allocates $24 million over four years to strengthen and sustain essential domestic, family, and sexual violence services. Key funding measures include:
Expanding the capacity of Canberra Rape Crisis Centre
Critical resourcing to the Domestic Violence Crisis Service
Continuing the PCYC’s Solid Ground early intervention program for young people experiencing DFV
Expanding the YWCA’s Domestic Violence Support Service to include two specialist children’s workers
Continuation of the Family Violence Safety Action Program, coordinated by Victim’s Support ACT
Continuation of the Victim Survivor Voices Pilot
Extension of the Safer Families Assistance Program
Following the receipt of The Long Yarn report, this Budget allocates $6 million over 3 years to Aboriginal and Community Controlled and led Organisations to provide culturally safe services. This funding will enable the following initiatives:
Intensive case management services delivered by Yhurwun Bullan
Continued support for Sisters in Spirit Aboriginal Corporation to provide both individual and systemic advocacy services
Engagement of WhISPers Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Softball Corporation to deliver healing through sport and cultural events
Ongoing support for Yerrabi Yurwang Child and Family Aboriginal Corporation to continue delivering the NaraGanaWali Strengthening Families Program
Development and implementation of a community and professional education campaign promoting the message that “violence is not our way”
Minister for the Prevention of Family and Domestic Violence, Dr Marisa Paterson, said the funding is aimed at increasing the capacity of frontline services to support victims of domestic, family and sexual violence.
“Ending violence against women is a national emergency and the ACT Government is strongly committed to addressing this violence. This funding is a strong investment in the services that support those experiencing violence in our community.”
“This package has a strong focus on supporting children and young people exposed to violence, as well as crisis support for victim survivors and supports the continuation of the high-risk family violence case coordination program,” Minister Paterson said.
“I am strongly committed to working with our local organisations and supporting ACCO’s to strengthen and sustain the essential work that they do”.
This comprehensive package forms part of the ACT Government’s long-term commitment to ending domestic, family and sexual violence in the ACT and ensuring a safer future for all Canberrans. It is supported by funding from the Safer Families Levy and the Commonwealth’s National Partnership Agreement, which together help strengthen responses to and the prevention of domestic, family and sexual violence.
Your Excellency, Mrs. María Juliana Ruiz Sandoval Ms. Ana Maneno, Mr. Mohammad Yahya Qanie,
Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen;
I am delighted to open this High-level Global Conference on Youth-Inclusive Peace Processes, co-hosted by the State of Qatar, Colombia, Finland, and the United Nations, and co-organized by the office of the UN Secretary-General’s Envoy on Youth, Education Above All Foundation, and Search For Common Ground, in partnership with the UN Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs (UNDPP), the UN Population Fund, the UN Development Programme (UNDP), and the United Network of Young Peacebuilders.
I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the ground-breaking vision of Her Highness Sheikha Moza Bint Nasser – UN SDG advocate, and Founder and Chairperson of Education Above All (EAA) Foundation.
Her Highness has worked tirelessly to promote the empowerment of youth in conflict-prevention and peace-building. I would also like to acknowledge the instrumental role of Education Above All in this regard.
The State of Qatar encourages the participation of young people in all stages of peace processes, including in decision-making. With this in mind, the Department of Youth Affairs of the Ministry of Culture and Sports has been directed to draft Qatar’s first National Youth Strategy.
Drafted in consultation with our youth, the strategy is a declaration of a common national vision that defines the needs and priorities of Qatar’s youth.
It is worthy of note that the first international Symposium on youth participation, held in Helsinki in March 2019, resulted in the launch of the first global policy paper on youth participation in peace processes.
I trust this conference will follow this path in arriving at shared political commitments to advance the global Youth, Peace, and Security Agenda, and deliver concrete solutions for sustainable youth-inclusive processes world-wide.
I am pleased that this conference will launch international guidelines to advance the global Youth, Peace and Security Agenda, and a five year-strategy on strengthening youth-inclusive peace processes, to be implemented at the national level.
To conclude, the State of Qatar is committed to continue working closely with the United Nations to effectively implement the main outcomes of this conference as part of our joint efforts to strengthen global youth-inclusive peace processes.
I thank you all for joining us, and look forward to our impactful deliberations here today.
Last week, President Donald Trump ordered an investigation into “who ran the United States while President Biden was in office”, alleging top aides masked the “cognitive decline” of his predecessor. The announcement referenced revelations in a new book by journalists Jake Tapper (CNN) and Alex Thompson (Axios).
Original Sin made headlines last month for revealing that Biden’s declining physical and cognitive health had been hidden from the public by his closest aides and his loyal but overly protective wife, Jill Biden.
Whatever merit there is in Trump’s order must be seen alongside his bottomless cynicism. He seizes on the two authors’ investigative journalism to continue tarnishing his predecessor’s reputation, while doing everything in his power to bully news companies such as CBS over almost meritless defamation cases and to cut the funding of public media organisations PBS and NPR.
Review: Original Sin – Jake Tapper and Alex Thompson (Hutchinson Heinemann)
In November 2020, Biden was seen by many as a hero. He won the American election and saved the country from Donald Trump, who scholars judged among the worst presidents in the nation’s history, not least because just over 384,500 people died from COVID-19 that year.
Today, just as many see Biden as a villain. He said he would be a “bridge” president. He knew he would have ended his second term aged 86 if he had won and served it, so said he would hand over to a successor well in time for the 2024 election. But he didn’t. Not until three and a half weeks after his wincingly bad performance in a debate with Trump last June.
By then it was too late for his Democratic Party to go through its usual primaries process. Biden anointed his vice president Kamala Harris as his successor, but with only 107 days to campaign before the election, it is more accurate to say he gave her what football commentators call a “hospital pass”.
Donald Trump regained the presidency. Four months into his second term, all but his most loyal supporters (and this time he has made sure to surround himself only with loyal supporters) think it is already much worse than his first.
Whatever Biden achieved in his presidency is being forgotten amid the horror at watching America’s democratic institutions assaulted by an authoritarian leader determined to undo Biden’s policies, especially on climate change.
What on earth happened? How much responsibility does Biden bear? Did the news media subject Biden to sufficient scrutiny before the debate last June? Was everyone except the MAGA base suffering from a new variant of what conservative commentators long ago dubbed “Trump derangement syndrome”?
In short order, the answers are: Biden declined faster and worse than had been anticipated; a lot; the media possibly didn’t scrutinise him enough, but it’s more complicated than that – and, yes, “Trump derangement syndrome” was a factor, though not quite in the way conservative commentators thought.
Clooney’s alarm
Original Sin’s most spectacular revelation was that at a Democrat fundraising event last year, Biden did not appear to recognise George Clooney – who as well as being an actor, is a longtime Democrat supporter and a friend of the president.
Clooney was shocked by Biden’s frail appearance. “Holy shit,” he thought, according to the authors, as he watched Biden enter the room, taking tiny steps with “an aide guiding him by his arm”. The book describes the excruciating moment in detail:
“You know George,” the assisting aide told the president, gently reminding him who was in front of him.
“Yeah, yeah,” the president said to one of the most recognizable men in the world, the host of this lucrative fundraiser. “Thank you for being here.”
“Hi, Mr. President,” Clooney said.
“How are ya?” the president replied.
“How was your trip?” Clooney asked.
“It was fine,” the president said.
It was obvious to many standing there that the president did not know who George Clooney was. […]
“George Clooney,” the aide clarified for the president.
“Oh, yeah!” Biden said. “Hi, George!”
A Hollywood VIP who witnessed the moment told the authors “it was not okay”, describing it as “uncomfortable”. Clooney felt he had to sound the alarm publicly, which he did in an impassioned opinion piece for The New York Times a few weeks later, on July 10. He wrote about how he loved and respected Biden, but
the one battle he cannot win is the fight against time. None of us can. It’s devastating to say it, but the Joe Biden I was with three weeks ago at the fund-raiser was not the Joe ‘big F-ing deal’ Biden of 2010. He wasn’t even the Joe Biden of 2020. He was the same man we all witnessed at the debate.
Just days after publicity about the book began, news broke that Biden has stage four prostate cancer – and that he had not had a prostate test for more than a decade.
The ‘loyalty police’
Tapper and Thompson’s book derives not only from their day jobs, but from reporting they have done since last November’s election, including interviews with 200 people. Some of them, even now, prefer to speak on background rather than be named.
Through them, they tell a bracing story with three main themes.
First, there is the unblinking loyalty of close aides. Chief strategist Mike Donilon had been with Biden since 1981. Bruce Reed was a speechwriter and longtime political consultant. Steve Ricchetti had been Biden’s chief of staff when he was vice president, and was also a friend who would watch the morning political shows with him. All four of Richetti’s children worked in the Biden administration, the authors write.
Jill Biden’s longtime aides, Annie Tomasini and Anthony Bernal, were fiercely protective of the Bidens as much as the office of the president. “Are you a Biden person?” they would ask, leading other aides to label them the “loyalty police”.
Collectively, the close aides were known as The Politburo. Kamala Harris’ aides called them a “cabal of the unhelpful”. Time and again, they responded to queries about Biden’s health with firm assurances he was doing fine – even though the president needed to be supplied with cue cards when he was meeting his cabinet secretaries.
Biden, like previous presidents, had an annual medical check-up and was given a clean bill of health. But doctors outside the White House noted that his cognitive abilities were not tested. Asked about this, aides – and Biden himself – would say he passed a cognitive test every day of his presidency, which was a superficially plausible but practically meaningless statement.
Some aides genuinely believed in Biden, while others harboured doubts. The latter suppressed those to focus on the task of defeating Trump in 2024. One told Tapper and Thompson: “He just had to win, and then he could disappear for four years – he’d only have to show proof of life every once in a while.” Which sounds pretty much like the plot of the 1989 movie, Weekend at Bernie’s, except the situation was anything but comic.
Biden’s aides admonished journalists, including Alex Thompson, for even raising the issue of the president’s health. Worse, they shielded Biden from what his own pollsters were saying about his dire prospects for re-election.
The oldest presidential candidates
For Biden, work usually began at 9am, included two hours in the afternoon for “POTUS time”, and finished at 4.30pm when he had dinner. Availability for evening events was limited. By 2024, cabinet secretaries in the Biden administration told Tapper and Thompson that Biden could not be relied upon to be available at 2am for the kind of emergency the presidency can require.
After the Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, born the same year as Biden, froze in public a second time, in 2023, his fellow Republican Nikki Haley said, “The Senate is the most privileged nursing home in the country […] You have to know when to leave.”
When the Democrats did unexpectedly well at the 2022 midterm elections, Biden’s aides took that as a sign he should run again, rather than note the level of protest in the midterm vote, which came soon after the Supreme Court overturned the 1973 Roe v Wade decision on abortion.
The opinion polls, though, were telling. An early November 2022 Ipsos poll had the president’s approval rating at a low 39%, Tapper and Thompson report. Two thirds of those surveyed said they thought the country was on the wrong track. When Ipsos ran a poll after the midterm election, 68% said Biden might not be up for the challenge of running in 2024. Worse, almost half of Democrats agreed.
Biden’s aides may have been right to marvel at what their boss could still do, and to resent the media harping on about Biden’s age while turning a blind eye to his cheeseburger-chomping, Coke-slurping political nemesis, only four years younger. The bitter fact for them is that by 2020 Biden looked and sounded frail while Trump looked and sounded commanding.
Trump may have lied repeatedly during the debate last June, but in a real sense that was not news; Trump lies as easily as he breathes. What was news was watching a mumbling, open-mouthed US president freeze on live television.
Grisly anecdotes and Hunter Biden
Original Sin is replete with grisly anecdotes about Biden’s decrepitude. “The guy can’t form a fucking sentence”, thought one aide attending to him onboard Air Force One. This leads to the second main theme: the tragic circumstances that appear to have accelerated the decline.
It is well known that personal tragedy has scarred – and in crucial ways shaped – Biden’s life and career. He lost his first wife, Neilia, and their one-year-old daughter, Naomi, in a car accident in 1972. Their young sons, Beau and Hunter, were in the car. They survived but Hunter suffered a fractured skull, an injury with lifelong effects, according to Tapper and Thompson.
Beau served as an army officer in the Iraq war. On his return, he was elected attorney-general of Delaware in 2006 and 2010. He planned to run for governor in 2016. But a year earlier, the brain cancer for which he was first treated in 2013 recurred; he died in May 2015. In a worrying precursor to later actions, the Bidens kept Beau’s illness a secret. “Beau’s death aged him significantly,” a longtime Biden confidant told Tapper and Thompson. “His shoulders looked smaller. His face looked more gaunt. In his eyes, you could just see it.”
A year later, Hunter Biden became addicted to crack cocaine. Ashley, Biden’s daughter by his second wife Jill, also struggled with addiction. Both spiralled downwards after Beau’s death, which weighed heavily on their father. As the authors write:
After Beau’s death in 2015, Biden desperately and understandably clung to Hunter. He would privately refer to him as ‘my only living son.’ But Biden aides felt that Hunter manipulated his father’s blind love for his own aims. The president struggled to say no to Hunter. Aides felt that he had tragically become Hunter’s chief enabler.
In 2021 Hunter published a memoir, Beautiful Things, and travelled round the country in an effort to provide hope to others struggling with addiction. The memoir’s candour provided valuable information to David Weiss, a special counsel appointed by Attorney-General Merrick Garland in 2023.
Weiss had been previously appointed by the first Trump administration to investigate the contents of a laptop Hunter Biden left at a repair shop. Biden had not interfered with Garland’s decision, as he did not want to be seen as behaving the way his predecessor had.
Weiss charged Hunter Biden over his possession of a handgun while being addicted to cocaine. A plea deal broke down and Hunter faced trial in 2024. The Biden family attended each day of the trial. Biden felt guilty, believing Hunter would never have been on trial if he wasn’t the president’s son.
There is little doubt the Republicans weaponised Hunter Biden’s actions, but he gave them plenty of ammunition. He had had an extramarital affair with his brother’s widow and had introduced her to cocaine, to which she became addicted. There is more, but you get the (tawdry) picture.
Then, after the election in November, Biden did what he had repeatedly said he wouldn’t, exercising his power as president to pardon his son. It may have been the understandable action of a besieged father, but Biden did not frame it that way, blaming Garland, wrongly, for pursuing the case.
Equally to the point, the authors report that Trump’s lawyers took note, believing the Hunter Biden pardon “gave them a great deal of leeway on whether they could pardon and free from prison the hundreds of convicted January 6 insurrectionists” from the 2021 Capitol riot. Which of course Trump did as soon as he took office in January 2025.
The old adage has it that two wrongs don’t make a right. But for a politician who had won the presidency promising to be everything Trump was not, it was a fatal, final blow to Biden’s credibility.
The media ‘missed a lot’
The third theme of the book asks how much of all this the news media reported during Biden’s presidency. Some, but not all of it – including some by Thompson, who recently won a White House Correspondents’ Association award for his disclosures.
Both he and his co-author acknowledge they and other journalists did not dig hard enough to reveal the extent to which the Biden administration was hampered by the president’s declining health. Said Thompson:
Being truth-tellers also means telling the truth about ourselves. We – myself included – missed a lot of this story, and some people trust us less because of it […] We should have done better.“
It is worth keeping this in perspective. The news media’s failings in the lead up to the Iraq war in 2003 were more significant. Then, too many journalists swallowed the administration’s lines justifying its decision to invade a country, while the work of those who did report sceptically was buried well inside the newspaper. There, it “played as quietly as a lullaby”, as The New York Times’ first public editor, Daniel Okrent, wrote in 2003.
The war’s reporting led to a lot of soul searching in American newsrooms. If there was a coverup in the media about the Biden administration, it wasn’t very effective, wrote media critic Jon Allsop in the New Yorker. “Not least because the majority of the public thought Biden was too old long before the debate.”
The other element infecting both the mainstream media and social media is divisiveness, rancour and hostility. It is hard, for journalists and the public, to see political information other than through a hyper-partisan lens. I felt this acutely when reading the section in Original Sin about Biden getting drawn into the FBI’s investigation of Trump for withholding classified documents – when the FBI found Biden had done essentially the same thing. (Though it should be stressed Biden, unlike Trump, cooperated at all times.)
‘Well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory’
It was through this investigation that special counsel Robert Hur’s recording of a long interview with Biden came to light. Journalists were backgrounded that Hur was a right-wing operative; he was anything but that, write Tapper and Thompson. He treated Biden fairly and respectfully. In the interview, excerpts of which run to seven pages of the book, Biden rambles and needs regular reminding of facts – including the year his son Beau died.
In Hur’s report, released in 2024, he found Biden had inappropriately retained classified documents but he did not recommend pressing charges. To a jury, Hur concluded, Biden would present “as a sympathetic, well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory”. He was making the kind of decision prosecutors routinely make about the likelihood of a conviction.
Hur was attacked by the White House and much of the media as a partisan warrior who had brought up the death of the president’s son in the interview, when it was Biden who mentioned it himself. If Hur really had been a partisan warrior, the authors write, he would have recommended continuing with the prosecution.
Several months later, after the disastrous Biden-Trump debate, friends and colleagues texted Hur saying he must have felt vindicated. “Hur told them that all he felt was sad. How could anyone look at Joe Biden at that debate and not feel bad?”
It is true that aides, and sometimes the news media, have covered up previous presidents’ health issues, such as Franklin Roosevelt’s paralysis from polio, John Kennedy’s debilitating back pain that required heavy doses of painkillers, and Ronald Reagan’s Alzheimer’s disease.
Tapper and Thompson argue the coverup of Biden’s health problems is the most consequential in presidential history.
Underplays Biden’s achievements
The authors successfully prosecute their case about Biden’s responsibility for his own demise. Perhaps worried they may not be believed by Democrat supporters, they continue amassing evidence well beyond that point, which means the minutiae of aides continuing to deny the reality of Biden’s decline becomes repetitive.
Their relentless focus on Biden’s decline also means they underplay both his achievements as a president and the breadth of his character. At one point, they admiringly refer to Richard Ben Cramer’s book about the 1988 presidential campaign, What it Takes, which includes Biden’s failed attempt to win the Democratic nomination for the presidency.
Cramer’s book is a massive 1,047 pages. He interviewed more than a thousand people and took so long on the book it came out during the next presidential campaign, in which Bill Clinton was elected.
One reviewer, Richard Brownstein, wrote of it: “Presidential elections are the white whale of American journalism – and in Cramer they have found a manic Melville.” But it is written in an intimate, novelistic style, taking the reader deep into the lives and thoughts and feelings of the candidates, George H.W Bush, Bob Dole, Michael Dukakis, Richard Gephardt, Gary Hart and Biden.
Cramer told Robert Boynton in an interview for his 2005 book, The New New Journalism, he was amazed political journalists spend so little time talking to childhood friends, family and early colleagues.
If you want to understand how someone got to the point where he [sic] is a credible candidate for president of a nation of 250 million people, you’d better godamn-well know how he is wonderful. But most journalists don’t care about that.
As such, Cramer provides a deeper, richer portrait of Biden as an idiosyncratic and flawed, but also impressive politician, who was a force of nature in his youth. By comparison, Original Sin reads like an autopsy: which in a way, it is. If you want to remember why Biden became an effective politician in the first place, seek out a copy of What it Takes.
In the end, though, whatever achievements Biden had as president are being overtaken by his disastrous decision to try to hang on for a second term. By the evidence presented in Original Sin, “Honest Joe” was, like many politicians, prey to ego and overvaulting ambition, and prone to secrecy when it suited him.
He and his aides thought – and astonishingly still do think – he was the person best able to repel the return of a person they feared (with good reason) would do enormous damage to the country. Biden said this after the November election, earning Harris’s ire, for which he apologised, and Donilon affirmed it in an interview with the authors early this year.
The savage irony is, by their actions, Biden and his team eased Trump’s path to victory last November. Now, it is not just Americans but the rest of the world who are left to deal with the second Trump administration.
Matthew Ricketson does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Borussia Dortmund has confirmed the signing of English midfielder Jobe Bellingham from Premier League side Sunderland, the club confirmed on Tuesday.
The 19-year-old has signed a contract until June 2030 and will join the squad traveling to the United States later this week for the FIFA Club World Cup.
Bellingham, who has played for the England U21 squad, follows in the footsteps of his older brother Jude, who played for Dortmund between 2020 and 2023 before moving to Real Madrid.
Like Jude, Jobe started his career at Birmingham City, before moving to Sunderland in 2023. During his two seasons at the Stadium of Light, he made 90 league appearances and played a key role in the team’s promotion to the Premier League in May.
“Jobe is an exceptionally talented player who combines maturity, technical skill, and ambition at a young age,” said Dortmund managing director Lars Ricken. “He embodies the values we believe in development, discipline and drive. We are confident he will grow into a key figure for our future.”
Sporting director Sebastian Kehl expressed similar sentiments, emphasising Bellingham’s leadership and adaptability. “He made significant progress last season, maturing into a central figure for Sunderland. His presence in midfield offers us greater flexibility, and we’re excited to see how he can elevate our game.”
Bellingham is set to wear the number 77 jersey during the Club World Cup, where he could make his first appearance for the Black and Yellows under head coach Niko Kovac.
“I’m thrilled to be part of Borussia Dortmund,” said Bellingham. “This club has a special place in my heart, and I want to contribute to its success. Playing in front of these incredible fans and competing for titles is something I’ve dreamed of.”
Despite being named in England’s preliminary U21 Euro squad, he will instead join Dortmund in the U.S., highlighting the club’s desire to integrate him into the team quickly.
A $4 million Rural Wellbeing Fund announced today at the Federated Farmers Advocacy Hub at Fieldays is a great win for rural advocacy groups, Wayne Langford says.
The Federated Farmers president has led the way in pushing the Government to deliver increased investment into rural mental health – an issue close to his heart.
“It’s hugely rewarding to get this across the line. I’m absolutely stoked the Government are making such a meaningful investment in the mental health of our rural communities.
“Federated Farmers have been involved every step of the way – but we haven’t been alone. The likes of DairyNZ, Beef + Lamb, Young Farmers and Rural Women have been right there with us.”
Langford says the extra $4 million from both Ministers Todd McClay and Matt Doocey to expand the investment in community-based wellbeing initiatives may be matched by industry partners, for a total pool of $8 million.
“The investment is significant in terms of the dollar amount, but the real value will come in having a much more coordinated approach that brings all the energy and focus into one place.
“In practice, we’re going to see the sector coming together to ensure we’re investing in the initiatives that bring the best results and make a real difference in people’s lives.
“That will cut out a whole heap of waste, remove all the duplication, and make sure every dollar invested in rural mental health is working as hard as it possibly can.”
Langford says, as a country, we’ve moved past the stage of simply acknowledging and building awareness of the importance of strong mental health.
“It’s great that we’ve come such a long way with rural mental health awareness, but now it’s time for action.
“Supporting groups like Surfing for Farmers, Farmstrong, FirstMate and NZ Young Farmers, who are doing the mahi on the ground, is so important.”
A five-member panel with representation from the primary sector will be established to assess project applications.
Projects must demonstrate strong local delivery, provide clear benefits to rural people, and ability to attract co-investment from industry and sector partners.
In announcing the funding, Agriculture and Forestry Minister Todd McClay paid particular tribute to advocacy by Langford, who he described as a long-time champion of rural wellbeing and mental health.
However, Langford says a strength of the initiative is that all the primary industry groups are united in the desire for action.
“With funding in place, we can now get some changes happening and make a real difference.”
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
The National Football Stadium in Belarus, built with the support of China, was officially opened on June 7. On this day, a friendly match between the youth teams of China and Belarus was held here. The President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko attended the opening ceremony and watched the match. This stadium is one of the key projects within the framework of the One Belt, One Road initiative, it is located in the industrial area of Minsk. The facility occupies an area of 12.43 hectares, and the development area is 48 thousand square meters. This stadium, designed for 33,145 spectators, is a professional football arena of international level, as well as a cultural and sports complex for the population.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
With young talents honed and some tough lessons learned, China’s new-look women’s volleyball team kicked off its comeback to international contention with a hard test at the Volleyball Nations League showpiece.
Despite a tearful ending at the hands of its bitter rival Turkiye, China’s fresh-faced squad signed off its first major international event in the new Olympic cycle at the VNL’s Beijing leg with quite a positive takeaway, leaving fans and pundits alike buoyed by the young unit’s growth potential in the build-up to the Los Angeles 2028 Games.
But even with the home crowd clapping on their feet to acknowledge their effort, Chinese players left the court unsatisfied with an opportunity wasted to avenge their quarterfinal loss to Turkiye at Paris 2024, after they let slip a 24-20 advantage in the fourth set, having led 2-1 overall, to lose 3-2 to the European champion on Sunday in the final match at the Beijing tournament.
Zhang Zixuan sets up the ball for Wang Yuanyuan during Sunday’s Volleyball Nations League match against Turkiye in Beijing. XINHUA
It wasn’t a disgrace at all for the rebuilt team to be narrowly defeated by the women’s world No 3 and VNL’s 2023 season winner, which provided a steep, yet helpful, learning curve for China’s young hopefuls to grow.
“Given the gap between us and the Turkish team at the moment, expectations were not that high (before the match), but I think we proved tonight that we can at least put up a fight against them and make them work,” China’s outside hitter Zhuang Yushan said after the match at Beijing’s National Indoor Stadium.
“We lost the match, but boosted our confidence. I think we will be braver facing world-class opponents in the next event,” said Zhuang, who scored 24 points (21 kills, two blocks and one service ace) to lead the host on Sunday.
China’s other outside hitter Wu Mengjie, despite walking off the court in tears, summed up the near-miss as a painful step forward.
“A loss like tonight stings for sure, but an experience like this is invaluable. We learned that we have to take care of the process better,” said a weeping Wu, who scored 18 points in the match against Turkiye, which played in Beijing without its star spikers Melissa Vargas and Ebrar Karakurt.
Team China, led by new head coach Zhao Yong, eventually capped off the home VNL leg with two wins (over Belgium and France) and two losses (the other to Poland) to finish in seventh place after the first week of the 18-nation preliminary phase.
The next prelim stage takes place from June 16-22 in Hong Kong, where Team China will take on Japan, the Czech Republic, Bulgaria and Italy.
Citing the lack of international experience, Zhao calls for patience and support for his players to mature through ups and downs to gradually live up to fans’ high demands for the celebrated national program.
“I think our players have stood up to the grind and made solid progress after four matches,” said the 49-year-old former coach of domestic league team Liaoning, who was appointed the national squad’s new boss in April.
“It’s the first international meet at the senior level for a lot of our players. They do need a process to develop, in terms of handling key points under pressure and making the right adjustment mentally.”
Zhao’s appointment, replacing the squad’s long-term mentor Cai Bin, and his call-up of 12 new players, who made their national team debut in Beijing, reflect the national governing body’s resolve to revitalize the once glorious program, following a series of international flops in recent years, and bring it back into medal contention in time for the Olympic campaign at LA 2028.
Since winning its first World Cup in 1981, the Chinese women’s team has collected a total of 10 world titles, including three Olympic gold medals (1984, 2004 and 2016) and two world championships (1982,1986), emerging as a source of inspiration for almost all walks of life across the country.
The home VNL event has served up a high-profile stage for some of the host’s best young guns, particularly teen combo Zhang Zixuan and Wang Aoqian, to make their presence felt.
As the Chinese women’s team’s youngest starter in history, the 16-year-old setter Zhang stole the show in the host’s opening game against Belgium by nicely setting up the offense play for four teammates to score in double digits in China’s 3-0 win over the European team on last Wednesday.
“I was a little bit nervous at first, but the home fans’ enthusiasm inspired me and helped me get myself into the game very quickly,” said Zhang, who led China to win the FIVB Volleyball Girls’ U17 World Championship in 2024.
Another teen prospect who turned heads at the Beijing meet was 17-year-old middle blocker Wang, who impressed coach Zhao and her senior teammates with composure and aggressiveness beyond her years.
“When coach Zhao asked me to warm up, I was so nervous that I felt like I was shaking, but my teammates helped calm me down,” Wang said of her debut on Saturday in Team China’s 3-0 victory over France where she contributed six points off the bench. “When attacking, I think I can contribute. Since the coach trusted me, I just gave it my all.”
Zhao, a renowned mentor of young talents with his Liaoning team at the club level, took pride from the performances of the fresh blood.
“We needed to improve our middle attack, and Wang Aoqian has good chemistry with our setter Zhang Zixuan. For a 17-year-old playing her first big international match and being called upon during a tough moment she did really well,” Zhao said.
