NewzIntel.com

Category: Sport

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Saves College Sports

    Source: US Whitehouse

    SAVING COLLEGE SPORTS: Today, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order to protect student-athletes and collegiate athletic scholarships and opportunities, including in Olympic and non-revenue programs, and the unique American institution of college sports.

    • The Order requires the preservation and, where possible, expansion of opportunities for scholarships and collegiate athletic competition in women’s and non-revenue sports.
    • The Order prohibits third-party, pay-for-play payments to collegiate athletes.  This does not apply to legitimate, fair-market-value compensation that a third party provides to an athlete, such as for a brand endorsement.
    • The Order provides that any revenue-sharing permitted between universities and collegiate athletes should be implemented in a manner that protects women’s and non-revenue sports.
    • The Order directs the Secretary of Labor and the National Labor Relations Board to clarify the status of student-athletes in order to preserve non-revenue sports and the irreplaceable educational and developmental opportunities that college sports provide.
    • The Order directs the Attorney General and the Federal Trade Commission to take appropriate actions to protect student-athletes’ rights and safeguard the long-term stability of college athletics from endless, debilitating antitrust and other legal challenges.
    • The Order directs the Assistant to the President for Domestic Policy and the Director of the White House Office of Public Liaison to consult with the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Teams and other organizations to protect the role of college athletics in developing world-class American athletes.

    RECOGNIZING THE IMPORTANCE OF COLLEGE SPORTS: President Trump recognizes the critical role of college sports in fostering leadership, education, and community pride, the need to address urgent threats to its future, including endless litigation seeking to eliminate the basic rules of college sports, escalating private-donor pay-for-play payments in football and basketball that divert resources from other sports and reduce competitive balance, and the commonsense reality that college sports are different than professional sports.

    • College sports, a uniquely American institution, support over 500,000 student-athletes with nearly $4 billion in scholarships annually, forging America’s future leaders, driving local economies and shaping national culture.
    • The collegiate athletic system produced 75% of the 2024 U.S. Olympic Team and has yielded countless business and civic leaders.
    • Recent litigation, including a 2021 Supreme court ruling on name, image, and likeness (NIL) payments and subsequent cases dismantling NCAA transfer and recruiting rules, has created a chaotic environment that threatens the financial and structural viability of college athletics.
      • Ongoing lawsuits seek to tear down the foundational elements of college sports that distinguish it from professional sports and protect non-revenue sports, such as that student-athletes are different than professional employees and that there are limits on how many seasons student-athletes can play.
    • The lack of enforceable rules has turned what were supposed to be legitimate, third-party NIL opportunities for players into pay-for-play bidding wars amongst university boosters, with some universities and their outside supporters reportedly spending more than $50 million per year on fielding rosters, mostly for the revenue-generating sports like football.  Football players on one team will receive $35-40 million in 2025 alone. 
    • Given these enormous, escalating demands on resources to compete in the revenue-generating sports, there are serious concerns regarding the future of non-revenue sports, women’s sports, and Olympic sports, as private-donor money is increasingly concentrated in these third-party, pay-for-play deals.  This dynamic also reduces competition and parity by creating an oligarchy of teams that can buy the best players—including the best players from less-wealthy programs at the end of each season, given the lack of restrictions on transferring teams each year.
    • Over 30 states have passed conflicting NIL laws, leading to a race-to-the-bottom that risks exploiting student-athletes and creating competitive imbalances among universities.
    • Without Federal action to restore order, ongoing lawsuits and a patchwork of state NIL laws risk exploiting student-athletes and eroding the opportunities provided by collegiate sports.

    PROMOTING A LEGACY OF ATHLETIC EXCELLENCE: This Executive Order builds on President Trump’s longstanding commitment to showcasing American greatness through sports and recognition of its value in forging American leaders and culture.

    • President Trump signed an Executive Order to keep men out of women’s sports, ensuring equal opportunities for women in sports.
    • President Trump played a pivotal role in securing the United States’ bid for the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles and the United States’ bid for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
    • President Trump has attended countless sporting events and hosted numerous teams at the White House.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: ACM Research Announces Major Upgrades to Its Ultra C wb Wet Bench Cleaning Tool for Advanced Chip Manufacturing

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FREMONT, Calif., July 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ACM Research, Inc. (“ACM”) (NASDAQ: ACMR), a leading supplier of wafer and panel processing solutions for semiconductor and advanced packaging applications, today announced major upgrades to its Ultra C wb cleaning tool. These new enhancements are designed to meet the demanding technical requirements of advanced-node manufacturing processes.

    The upgraded Ultra C wb features a patent-pending nitrogen (N2) bubbling technology to solve poor wet etching uniformity and by-product regrowth. These issues frequently appear in conventional wet bench processes of phosphoric acid in high aspect ratio trenches and via structures in advanced-node processes. ACM’s patent-pending N2 bubbling technique enhances the transport efficiency of phosphoric acid and promotes the uniformity of temperature, concentration and flow velocity in wet etching bath. The improved mass transfer efficiency of the wet etching process avoids by-product accumulation in wafer micro-structures to prevent regrowth. This technology holds significant application potential in the wet etching process for manufacturing 3D DRAM, 3D logic and 500+ layer 3D NAND devices​​.

    “With performance a top priority, ACM has enhanced its Ultra C wb tool to deliver improved results by integrating the N2 bubbling technique,” said ACM’s President and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. David Wang. “Batch processing remains a vital component of the wet processing market, offering advantages such as cost-effectiveness, increased efficiency, and lower chemical consumption compared to single-wafer wet cleaning.”

    New Features and Benefits of the Upgraded Ultra C wb Tool:

    • Enhanced Etching Uniformity: Compared to conventional batch processes for wet cleaning, the Ultra C wb platform is equipped with the N2 bubbling technique, improving within-wafer and wafer-to-wafer wet etching uniformity by more than 50%.
    • Enhanced Particle Removal Performance: The Ultra C wb platform’s advanced cleaning capabilities have been proven in organic residue removal of special phosphoric acid additives in advanced-node processes.
    • Expanded Process Capabilities: The upgraded bench module is qualified for three layers of advanced-node processes, including: stack silicon nitride removal, channel hole polysilicon etch back and gate line tungsten recess. It is compatible with a variety of chemical solutions, such as phosphoric acid, H4 etchant (a mixed acid solution typically used for metal film etching), tetramethylammonium hydroxide (TMAH), standard clean 1 (SC1) and silicon-germanium (SiGe) etching solution, etc. Additional layers and applications are currently in development at the customer site.
    • Proprietary Design: The nitrogen bubbling technology designs in the patent application generate large-size bubbles with good uniformity, while the bubble density can be precisely controlled. The N₂ bubbling core technology can be applied to ACM’s Ultra C Tahoe (single-wafer and bench combined cleaning tool) platform, effectively addressing customers’ future process requirements.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    Certain statements contained in this press release are not historical facts and may be forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as “plans,” “expects,” “believes,” “anticipates,” “designed,” and similar words are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on ACM management’s current expectations and beliefs, and involve a number of risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict and that could cause actual results to differ materially from those stated or implied by the forward-looking statements. A description of certain of these risks, uncertainties and other matters can be found in filings ACM makes with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, all of which are available at www.sec.gov. Because forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, actual results and events may differ materially from results and events currently expected by ACM. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof. ACM undertakes no obligation to publicly update these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that occur after the date hereof or to reflect any change in its expectations with regard to these forward-looking statements or the occurrence of unanticipated events.

    About ACM Research, Inc.

    ACM develops, manufactures and sells semiconductor process equipment spanning cleaning, electroplating, stress-free polishing, vertical furnace processes, track, PECVD, and wafer- and panel-level packaging tools, enabling advanced and semi-critical semiconductor device manufacturing. ACM is committed to delivering customized, high-performance, cost-effective process solutions that semiconductor manufacturers can use in numerous manufacturing steps to improve productivity and product yield. For more information, visit www.acmr.com.

    © ACM Research, Inc. ULTRA C and the ACM Research logo are trademarks of ACM Research, Inc. For convenience, these trademarks appear in this press release without ™ symbols, but that practice does not mean ACM will not assert, to the fullest extent under applicable law, its rights to such trademarks. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

       
    Media Contact: Company Contacts:
    Alyssa Lundeen USA
    Kiterocket Robert Metter
    +1 218.398.0776 +1 503.367.9753
    alundeen@kiterocket.com  
      China
      Xi Wang
      ACM Research (Shanghai), Inc.
      +86 21 50808868
       
      Korea
      ACM Research (Korea), Inc.
      +82 70-41006699
       
      Taiwan
      David Chang
      +886 921999884
       
      Singapore
      Adrian Ong
      +65 8813-1107
       

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: Hockey Canada sex assault verdict: Sports culture should have also been on trial

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Laura Misener, Professor & Director, School of Kinesiology, Western University

    The verdict is in on the sexual assault trial of five former members of Canada’s 2018 world junior hockey team — all five have been acquitted.

    Each player was accused of sexually assaulting a woman in a hotel room. Today, Justice Maria Carroccia stated that the Crown did not prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt.

    The trial has captured the world’s attention and sparked polarized public debates about consent, hockey culture and the role of sport in socializing young men.

    Elite athletes often operate within environments where their talent grants them special status and access to resources — monetary and otherwise — that bolster a sense of entitlement. In some instances, sport organizations exacerbate this sentiment by protecting their star performers instead of addressing misconduct, which was reflected in this case.

    For example, an abusive national vaulting coach for New Zealand Athletics was finally banned for 10 years, but only after years of unchecked abuse of his female athletes, including “inappropriate sexual references.” This highlights how misconduct can go on unrestrained for so long.



    Read more:
    With another case of abuse in elite sport, why are we still waiting to protect NZ’s sportswomen from harm?

    The culture of exceptionalism

    As researchers with expertise in sport culture and sexual and gender-based violence, we’re reflecting on what the Hockey Canada trial reveals about the institutional and cultural practices within sport.

    The formal and informal rules of men’s sport validate misogyny and reinforce systemic patterns of sexual entitlement and inadequate accountability. We offer some perspectives on how these troubling patterns of violence in sport can be reformed.

    The Hockey Canada sexual assault trial has become a focal point for questioning how elite sporting environments shield athletes from accountability. This may be especially true in hockey.

    In their book about toxic hockey culture, authors Evan Moore and Jashmina Shaw argue that hockey operates within “a bubble composed mostly of boys and men who are white, cis-het, straight and upper-class. And those who play often become coaches and teach the same values to the next generation.”

    This closely knit community thrives on conformity and creates conditions that are ripe for the pervasive misogyny against women and systemic silence around issues of consent. The book _Skating on Thin Ice: Professional Hockey, Rape Culture and Violence against Women_, written by criminal justice scholars and sports reporters, demonstrates how endemic sexism, heavy alcohol use, abusive peers and the sexual objectification of women are buttressed by broader social factors. These factor uphold and reproduce toxic hockey culture, including patriarchal beliefs.

    Male-dominated sporting cultures also emphasize a particular type of masculinity that focuses on dominance, physical intimidation and winning at all costs. This can blur the boundaries between acceptable competitive behaviour and problematic aggression.

    Vulnerability in sports

    Within the realm of professional sport, athletes also become commodified and objectified through media coverage, sponsorship deals and public scrutiny. This commodification can contribute to a culture where athletes may internalize the idea that their bodies are public property, further eroding their sense of autonomy and understanding of consent, especially in relation to others beyond the sport context.

    Questioning or circumventing institutionally sanctioned behaviours is not easy, and it’s well-documented that many elite athletes struggle with mental health issues including depression, anxiety and substance misuse resulting from the pressure to align with the dominant culture.

    But what often gets forgotten is how the hyper-masculine culture of sports creates significant barriers to seeking help. Young male athletes are socialized to comply with peer cultures that equate vulnerability with weakness. Yet they face intense pressures around family expectations, sponsorship deals and team success that demands they maintain appearances of strength and control.

    This cycle of suppressed vulnerability and untreated distress enables toxic sporting masculinity to flourish, forcing organizations like Hockey Canada to confront their role in perpetuating these harmful dynamics.

    The need for structural, cultural reform

    Sports organizations have significant financial and reputational investment in athletes. This can create an inherent conflict when misconducts arise, problematically prompting sports organizations to use their power and resources to prioritize damage control over justice.

    We saw this in the Hockey Canada sexual assault trial, where each hockey player had his own legal counsel, a stark illustration of institutional power and the extent to which sports organizations will go to shield their members from accountability. The deeply entrenched networks within sport prioritize self-preservation over addressing misconduct

    Effectively responding to these issues requires addressing the systemic factors that perpetuate sexual and gender-based violence in sport. The sport ecosystem in Canada needs radical change, including who trains and mentors young men in hockey and how organizations investigate complaints.

    It requires going beyond individual accountability, participating in consent workshops or issuing policy documents. These actions alone are insufficient to shift the cultural needle.

    In 2022, Hockey Canada released a comprehensive action plan to address systemic issues in hockey that features discussions of accountability, governance, education and training and independent sport safety structures.

    Community organizations like the Ontario Coalition of Rape Crisis Centres also issued a series of recommendations in 2022 that remain germane:

    • Work with athletes and sports organizations to address sexual violence in sports culture;
    • Support the development and growth of male allies programs within community-based sexual assault support centres; and
    • Support those who have been harmed.

    In addition to these excellent suggestions, Hockey Canada and other allied hockey organizations must be willing to restructure the current hierarchical structure of power that governs not just hockey, but also the players and all the other agencies involved, including coaches, sponsors, trainers, legal teams, media and PR representatives.

    These organizational changes are possible, as evidenced by the efforts of Bayne Pettinger, an agent who has led efforts to create space for queer hockey players in Hockey Canada and the National Hockey League.

    Scott Smith, who stepped down from his role as Hockey Canada’s President and CEO, left, and Hockey Canada Chief Financial Officer Brian Cairo appear at a standing committee in July 2022 looking into how Hockey Canada handled allegations of sexual assault and a subsequent lawsuit.
    THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sean Kilpatrick

    Sport’s moral reckoning

    However, the cultural norms of power in sport extend beyond the playing field to shape attitudes toward consent and sexual conduct.

    Until sport organizations address the foundational cultural elements that enable misconduct — toxic masculinity, institutional protection and erosion of consent culture — meaningful change will remain elusive.

    Within hockey environments, in particular, the objectification of women and the institutional silence surrounding sexual violence have become normalized aspects of the sport’s culture, creating conditions where misconduct can flourish unchecked.

    The events examined in this most recent trial are not isolated incidents but symptoms of deeper systemic failures within elite sport.

    Only through comprehensive cultural transformation can we ensure that sport environments are spaces of genuine safety, respect and accountability for all participants.

    Laura Misener receives funding from Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada

    Treena Orchard receives funding from Western University for a Teaching Innovation Grant, however, those funds were not used in the creation of this article.

    – ref. Hockey Canada sex assault verdict: Sports culture should have also been on trial – https://theconversation.com/hockey-canada-sex-assault-verdict-sports-culture-should-have-also-been-on-trial-260662

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Top guns return, nationals on target in Taber

    Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI: Victor Ciardelli and Rate Introduce ‘Train Like a Champ,’ a Wellness Series Inspired by Champions and Built for Life’s Biggest Goals

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO, July 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Rate, a leading fintech company, today announced the launch of Train Like a Champ, a new in-app wellness initiative featuring professional athletes to inspire users to tackle life’s most significant milestones with the same confidence, discipline, and resilience found in professional sports. This campaign marks the next step in Rate’s evolution, expanding beyond home lending into personal and financial wellness to better support its community’s journey to a better life.

    Available exclusively in the Rate App, Train Like a Champ features guided video content from athletes such as UFC champion Julianna Peña, NFL quarterback Jameis Winston, and, coming soon, pickleball pro Grayson Goldin. Topics include strength training, mindfulness, goal-setting, and sleep routines. Each collection is designed to help users develop habits that support not only physical and mental health but also long-term goals, such as financial stability and homeownership.

    “Buying a home is one of the biggest goals in a person’s life, and it takes more than just financial readiness. It takes mental focus, emotional resilience, and a clear sense of purpose. That’s what Train Like a Champ delivers: the same mindset and discipline professional athletes use to succeed at the highest level,” said Victor Ciardelli, CEO of Rate. “For us, this is personal. It’s about helping people get to a better place physically, financially, and emotionally, so they can live their best life.”

    With a deep focus on all things wellness, Train Like a Champ offers a unique, holistic approach that connects everyday well-being with the broader life goals that matter most. Each athlete’s series is structured like a mini-masterclass, combining personal stories with guided routines to build lasting habits. The content is free and available only inside the Rate App.

    To celebrate the launch, the first 100 users who download the app through select athlete referral links will be eligible for exclusive giveaways, including Rate merchandise and signed memorabilia.

    Recent survey data from Rate shows:

    • 78% of homebuyers describe the homebuying process as overwhelming.
    • 64% feel unprepared to manage its complexities.
    • 66% report losing sleep due to homebuying stress.

    Train Like a Champ was created in direct response to these insights, offering credible coaching and guidance to help users navigate life’s challenges, reduce stress, and live happier, more productive lives.

    Content highlights include:

    • Julianna Peña: Mental preparation, breathwork, and power routines
    • Jameis Winston: Endurance, strength training, agility, and gratitude
    • (Coming soon) Grayson Goldin: Performance planning and his quest to break the world record for fastest pickleball serve

    All athlete content will be featured in the Train Like a Champ hub inside the Rate app. New videos, tips, and behind-the-scenes reels will continue to launch throughout the summer and fall 2025.

    To download the Rate app, visit https://www.rate.com/rate-app.

    About Rate
    Rate Companies is a leader in mortgage lending and digital financial services. Headquartered in Chicago, Rate has over 850 branches across all 50 states and Washington, D.C. Since its launch in 2000, Rate has helped more than 2 million homeowners with home purchase loans, refinances, and home equity loans. The company has cemented itself as an industry leader by introducing innovative technology, offering low rates, and delivering unparalleled customer service. Recent honors and awards include: a Best Mortgage Lender of 2025 by Fortune; Best Mortgage Lender of 2025 for First-Time Homebuyers by Forbes; a Best Mortgage Lender of 2025 for FHA Loans, Home Equity Loans, and Lower Credit Scores by NerdWallet; Best Mortgage Lender of 2025 for Digital Experience and Down Payment Assistance by Motley Fool; Chicago Agent Magazine’s Lender of the Year for seven consecutive years. Visit rate.com for more information.

    Media Contact
    press@rate.com 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Bitget Strengthens Regional Presence at Malaysia Blockchain Week 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, July 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget, the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company, participated in Malaysia Blockchain Week 2025, to strengthen its ties with Southeast Asia’s fast-growing digital economy. The event, hosted at Kuala Lumpur’s World Trade Centre, drew 3,300+ attendees from 20 countries, with support from Malaysian agencies like MDEC, the Ministry of Digital, and Tourism Malaysia.

    Bitget CEO Gracy Chen delivered a keynote address titled “Two Strategies to Thrive in a Volatile Market.” She spotlighted Bitget’s focus on real-world utility, from its $300M user Protection Fund to new tools like GetAgent (an AI trading helper) and xStocks for tokenized equities. Gracy pointed to her 2024 MYBW visit as the turning point. This year, she unveiled PayFi, Bitget’s bid to simplify cross-border crypto payments in emerging markets.

    Bitget CEO Gracy Chen delivering her keynote on the mainstage of MYBW 2025.

    “Malaysia Blockchain Week has become a key platform in this region,” said Gracy Chen, CEO of Bitget. “Bitget will continue building here, through partnerships, localization, and product innovation. Our goal is to show up meaningfully, through utility, education, and experiences that resonate.”

    Bitget also teamed up with Pudgy Penguins (PENGU) to host Hype Drop: Kopi Rave, a side event held at Thong Kee Kopitiam in Kuala Lumpur. Blending wellness, streetwear, music, and collectibles, it drew over 400 attendees and generated strong social media buzz.

    Bitget Trivia winners with their various merch including the much-coveted Bitget Labubu doll.

    Malaysia Blockchain Week 2025 served as a timely stage for Bitget to reinforce its global leadership while celebrating Southeast Asia’s role in Web3 adoption. From shaping cross-border payment infrastructure to pioneering real-world asset trading, Bitget’s message at MYBW was clear: building in this space is about more than innovation.

    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 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. 

    Aligned with its global impact strategy, Bitget has joined hands with UNICEF to support blockchain education for 1.1 million people by 2027. In the world of motorsports, Bitget is the exclusive cryptocurrency exchange partner of MotoGP™, one of the world’s most thrilling championships.

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

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

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

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at: 

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/dd30ebe8-c1fe-467d-8b57-715842f39aa4

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3ae531e0-6f67-4e30-a223-dce6eeb9bdb9

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/8eeebd48-a1b6-406e-9793-a25a2abd1ef4

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Bitget Strengthens Regional Presence at Malaysia Blockchain Week 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, July 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget, the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company, participated in Malaysia Blockchain Week 2025, to strengthen its ties with Southeast Asia’s fast-growing digital economy. The event, hosted at Kuala Lumpur’s World Trade Centre, drew 3,300+ attendees from 20 countries, with support from Malaysian agencies like MDEC, the Ministry of Digital, and Tourism Malaysia.

    Bitget CEO Gracy Chen delivered a keynote address titled “Two Strategies to Thrive in a Volatile Market.” She spotlighted Bitget’s focus on real-world utility, from its $300M user Protection Fund to new tools like GetAgent (an AI trading helper) and xStocks for tokenized equities. Gracy pointed to her 2024 MYBW visit as the turning point. This year, she unveiled PayFi, Bitget’s bid to simplify cross-border crypto payments in emerging markets.

    Bitget CEO Gracy Chen delivering her keynote on the mainstage of MYBW 2025.

    “Malaysia Blockchain Week has become a key platform in this region,” said Gracy Chen, CEO of Bitget. “Bitget will continue building here, through partnerships, localization, and product innovation. Our goal is to show up meaningfully, through utility, education, and experiences that resonate.”

    Bitget also teamed up with Pudgy Penguins (PENGU) to host Hype Drop: Kopi Rave, a side event held at Thong Kee Kopitiam in Kuala Lumpur. Blending wellness, streetwear, music, and collectibles, it drew over 400 attendees and generated strong social media buzz.

    Bitget Trivia winners with their various merch including the much-coveted Bitget Labubu doll.

    Malaysia Blockchain Week 2025 served as a timely stage for Bitget to reinforce its global leadership while celebrating Southeast Asia’s role in Web3 adoption. From shaping cross-border payment infrastructure to pioneering real-world asset trading, Bitget’s message at MYBW was clear: building in this space is about more than innovation.

    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 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. 

    Aligned with its global impact strategy, Bitget has joined hands with UNICEF to support blockchain education for 1.1 million people by 2027. In the world of motorsports, Bitget is the exclusive cryptocurrency exchange partner of MotoGP™, one of the world’s most thrilling championships.

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

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

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

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at: 

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/dd30ebe8-c1fe-467d-8b57-715842f39aa4

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3ae531e0-6f67-4e30-a223-dce6eeb9bdb9

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/8eeebd48-a1b6-406e-9793-a25a2abd1ef4

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Africa24 Group Signs Groundbreaking Partnership with the Ivorian Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) Federation

    Source: APO

    Africa24 Group (https://Africa24TV.com/), the largest media group in Africa and broadcaster of four HD television channels, has signed a landmark partnership agreement with the Ivorian MMA Federation (Mixed Martial Arts) to promote, broadcast, and elevate the profile of MMA in Côte d’Ivoire and across the continent.

    This strategic collaboration aims to spotlight local and regional talent through exclusive reports on athletes, dedicated programming on all MMA competitions, and the promotion of core values of the sport such as discipline, self-improvement, respect, and inclusion.

    Catch exclusive footage now available on replay. (https://apo-opa.co/40WUROL)

    Unrivaled Distribution and Audience Reach for Sports in Africa

    The growth of MMA and sports across Africa represents a key priority for Africa24 Group — creating opportunities for youth, fostering a professional sports ecosystem, and positioning Africa as a global reservoir of emerging talent in one of the world’s fastest-growing disciplines.

    This partnership will further enrich the unique editorial offering of Africa24 Sport, the continent’s first and only 24/7 African sports news and competitions channel.

    “This agreement with the Ivorian MMA Federation is a positive step forward for sports fans across Africa. Africa24 Group is committed to delivering high-quality content through a platform accessible to all. This new milestone should benefit all sports, national and continental federations, and Olympic committees across Africa. It’s about building a shared platform that ensures maximum visibility, unparalleled exposure, and unprecedented reach for every sport on the continent,” said Constant NEMALE, Founder and President of Africa24 Group.

    Through this partnership, Africa24 reinforces its ambition to connect African sports to the world, while actively contributing to the professionalization of MMA in Africa — to the great satisfaction of the Ivorian MMA Federation.

    “Mixed Martial Arts in Côte d’Ivoire is evolving fast. The sport is growing steadily, backed by a strong organizational structure and promising momentum. I believe it has a bright future both in Côte d’Ivoire and across Africa,” said Jackson Parfait TAPÉ, President of the Ivorian MMA Federation.

    “MMA needs greater visibility, not only in Côte d’Ivoire but also globally. This partnership between the Ivorian MMA Federation (FIMMA) and Africa24 Sport is precisely aimed at showcasing a sport that is taking root and expanding in our country,” added Guillaume BEDA, Vice President of the Ivorian MMA Federation.

    As a key partner for sports development in Africa, Africa24 Group is mobilizing all its resources to serve MMA enthusiasts. Throughout the duration of this partnership, Africa24’s channels will broadcast all MMA competitions, with dedicated magazine shows and a team of expert journalists and passionate analysts delivering world-class coverage.

    With Africa24 Group, expect nothing less than exceptional sports entertainment.

    AFRICA24 – Together, Let’s Transform Africa

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of AFRICA24 Group.

    Contact:
    Communications Department
    Africa24 Group
    Gaëlle Stella Oyono 
    Email: onana@africa24tv.com
    Tel: +237 694 90 99 88

    Social Media:
    @ africa24tv

    About Africa24:
    Launched in 2009, Africa24 Group is the continent’s leading TV and digital media network. It is the top media brand among decision-makers and senior executives in Africa and beyond. Africa24 operates four HD television channels available 24/7 via major global networks:

    • AFRICA24 TV: The continent’s first French-language news channel
    • AFRICA24 English: The reference English-language African news channel
    • AFRICA24 Sport: The first African sports news and competition channel
    • AFRICA24: The flagship channel for Africa’s creative industries

    Africa24 also operates myafrica24, the first HD streaming platform dedicated to Africa, accessible worldwide on all devices (smartphones, computers, tablets, and smart TVs).

    With global distribution through top operators and platforms (Canal+, Bouygues, Orange, Bell…), Africa24 is available in over 80 million households and boasts a digital community of more than 8 million followers across web and social media. Africa24 is the go-to media platform for global leaders seeking to engage with Africa-related topics.

    https://Africa24TV.com/

    About the Ivorian MMA Federation:
    The Ivorian MMA Federation is responsible for the organization, regulation, and promotion of Mixed Martial Arts in Côte d’Ivoire. The federation supports athletes, upholds sports ethics, and promotes MMA as both an elite sport and a powerful tool for social inclusion.

    Media files

    .

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kennedy on Jimmy Graham: “He gave my people in Louisiana a lot of joy at a time they really needed it”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Kennedy (Louisiana)

    Watch Kennedy’s comments here.

    WASHINGTON – Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) delivered the following remarks on the U.S. Senate floor: 

    “I just want to briefly thank Jimmy Graham. Who’s Jimmy Graham? I know, Mr. President, you know who Jimmy Graham is. He was one of the best tight ends who ever played the game. 

    “Now, he was a New Orleans Saint, I think, for six or seven seasons. He played elsewhere. I looked it up. He played for the Seahawks. He played for the Packers. He played for the Bears, but he was a total beast in the best sense of the word, playing for the New Orleans Saints. And he has retired. 

    “After 13 years in the NFL, Jimmy has decided to retire. He was a big boy—he is a big boy—but he started out as a basketball player. He didn’t play football. He played basketball. And he transformed himself. 

    “The numbers that Jimmy put up are just out of this world. They’re other worldly. He is clearly one of the most prolific pass-catching tight ends in the history of the game.

    “As you know, Mr. President, many tight ends just block. That’s their job. Jimmy not only blocked, but he caught passes. And he caught a bunch of them. He is number seven in NFL history in receptions at 719. He ranks number eight in receiving yards at 8,545. He ranks fourth in touchdowns at 89.

    “When he was with the Saints . . . in six seasons, Jimmy Graham caught 392 passes for 4,791 yards and 55 touchdowns. And he was a tight end. His first job was to block. He also caught a few balls. And he gave my people in Louisiana a lot of joy at a time they really needed it.

    “And I just wanted to thank Mr. Graham for the joy that he brought to anybody and everybody who watched him play football, but especially when he played for the New Orleans Saints. I want to wish him well, and I wanted to end on some good news tonight.”

    Watch Kennedy’s speech here.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • PM Modi, UK PM Keir Starmer hold ‘chai pe charcha’ at Chequers

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday held a ‘Chai Pe Charcha’ with his UK counterpart Keir Starmer at Chequers, the countryside retreat of the British Prime Minister. A photo shared by PM Modi in a post on X showed the two leaders engaged in a deep conversation over tea.

    In his post, PM Modi said, “‘Chai Pe Charcha’ with PM Keir Starmer at Chequers… brewing stronger India-UK ties!”

    At the same venue, the two leaders also interacted with business leaders, highlighting the importance of the recently signed Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), which they said has opened up new avenues for trade and investment.

    “Interacted with business leaders at Chequers. The signing of the India-UK CETA has opened up new avenues for trade and investment. It marks a pivotal step in strengthening our economic partnership,” PM Modi posted on X.

    The leaders also toured an exhibition showcasing flagship products and innovations from both India and the UK. In another post, PM Modi said, “At Chequers, PM Keir Starmer and I saw an exhibition which gave a glimpse of the strong economic linkages between India and the UK. With the signing of CETA, these linkages will rise manifold.”

    Later, the Prime Ministers interacted with young players from the Buckinghamshire Street Cricket Hubs, where PM Modi gifted them a bat signed by the Indian cricket team that won the T20 World Cup.

    Sharing moments from the interaction, PM Modi posted, “India and the UK are connected by a shared passion for cricket. At Chequers, PM Keir Starmer and I interacted with players from Buckinghamshire Street Cricket Hubs. Great to see sport fostering people-to-people ties between our nations. Also gave my young friends a bat signed by the Indian cricket team which won the T20 World Cup.”

    The two leaders also posed with the Premier League trophy. Sharing the photograph on X, PM Modi said, “Football is widely admired among India’s youth and several football clubs based in the UK are very popular in India.”

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: ‘Plan ahead’ message as city gears up for IRONMAN Leeds triathlon

    Source: City of Leeds

    People in Leeds are being asked to take note of the traffic and travel arrangements that have formed a key part of the planning for a major new sporting event.

    The inaugural IRONMAN Leeds triathlon is being held this Sunday, July 27, with around 2,500 athletes set to push themselves to the limit as they tackle a 2.4-mile swim in Roundhay Park’s Waterloo Lake followed by a 112-mile bike ride and a 26-mile run.

    A wide-ranging programme of temporary road closures will be in place in and around north Leeds to ensure that the event – which is being organised by the IRONMAN Group with support from Leeds City Council – passes off safely and smoothly.

    And, with the final countdown to the big day now under way, residents are being encouraged to take a few minutes to acquaint themselves with the closure timings and locations.

    Significant traffic disruption is expected, with the epic nature of the event – and the lengthy race times that come with it – meaning restrictions will be in force for much of Sunday.

    The IRONMAN team has been working hard to publicise the plans for the day, with a total of 60,000 information leaflets being distributed to local properties.

    More than 100 businesses in affected areas have also received direct e-mails with details about the event that they can share with their staff and customers.

    Vehicle crossing locations will be dotted along the cycling and running routes, while full emergency service road access will be maintained throughout. Pedestrians will be able to cross the routes at any point, provided it is safe to do so.

    People with enquiries regarding road access – including carers who need to carry out home visits – are asked to contact the IRONMAN team via leeds@ironmanroadaccess.com or 03330 116600.

    Enquiries about other IRONMAN-related matters should be e-mailed to leeds@ironman.com.

    Leeds is one of only two places in the UK hosting a full IRONMAN challenge in 2025, with previous events in locations such as Bolton and Pembrokeshire generating millions of pounds for their local economies.

    Councillor Jonathan Pryor, Leeds City Council’s deputy leader and executive member for economy, transport and sustainable development, said:

    “IRONMAN Leeds promises to be a fantastic occasion, and one that will further strengthen our city’s reputation as a respected host of high-profile sporting events.

    “The exploits of local triathletes such as the Brownlee brothers have given Leeds a real interest in this sport, so hopefully people will be turning out in numbers on Sunday to support the competitors in Roundhay Park and along the rest of the course.

    “The road closures that are needed for the safe operation of the event will inevitably cause some disruption and we thank the public in advance for their patience and understanding.

    “Please do take the time, if you haven’t already, to familiarise yourself with all the relevant traffic and travel arrangements and how they might affect your plans.”

    IRONMAN Leeds will have a staggered start, with the first swimmers venturing into Waterloo Lake from 6am on Sunday.

    The event’s second discipline, the bike race, begins and ends in Roundhay Park and will cover three loops of a circular route that runs through or near communities such as Shadwell, Thorner, Bardsey, Wike, Harewood, Eccup, Arthington, Adel and Alwoodley.

    Roads that will be affected by the closure programme needed for this part of the day include:

    • Carr Lane between Shadwell and Thorner (closed 6am to 3.30pm)
    • Bramham Road and part of Thorner Road, both to the east of Thorner (closed 6am to 3.30pm)
    • The A61 Harrogate Road between the A659 at Harewood and Wike Lane (closed 7am to 4.30pm)
    • The A61 Harrogate Road between Wike Lane and Wigton Approach, near the Grammar School at Leeds (closed 7am to 5.30pm)
    • Alwoodley Lane between its junctions with King Lane and the A61 Harrogate Road (closed eastbound 7.30am to 5.30pm)

    IRONMAN Leeds’s third and final discipline, the run, will follow a looped course that takes in the western side of Roundhay Park and a host of residential streets in the wider Roundhay area.

    Athletes are expected to start crossing the finishing line – which will be located near the park’s cricket pavilion – from around 2pm.

    Spectators heading to this area to cheer the runners home can look forward to a party atmosphere as well as food stalls, music and other attractions.

    Roads in Roundhay that will be closed for much of Sunday to facilitate both the run and general event access include North Park Grove, Gledhow Avenue, Jackson Avenue, Old Park Road and the stretch of Street Lane between Devonshire Avenue and Princes Avenue. Park Avenue will be closed near the Lakeside Cafe from 6am on Saturday until 5pm on Monday (July 28).

    Tropical World will be open as normal throughout the event.

    Lewis Peacock, race director for IRONMAN Leeds, said:

    “We can’t wait to welcome thousands of athletes to the home of triathlon as the very first IRONMAN Leeds heads to town.

    “It’s set to be an incredible day of racing and a great moment to have a full distance IRONMAN race return to England for the first time since 2023.

    “The spectator support in Roundhay Park is expected to be massive, so make sure you head down to soak up the atmosphere!”  

    Further information about road closures along the cycling and running routes – together with suggested diversions for people wanting to drive to Harewood House on Sunday – can be found here.

    ENDS

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Keeping Life More Affordable Through the Active Families Benefit

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on July 24, 2025

    Saskatchewan families with children and youth participating in sports, culture, and recreation can access the Active Families Benefit, a tax credit that helps keep these activities more affordable.

    Starting in 2025, the refundable tax benefit has been doubled to $300 per child, or $400 per child, who are eligible for the federal Child Disability Tax Credit. In addition, the benefit is now available to families with a gross family income of $120,000 or less.  

    “One of the best ways to ensure strong and healthy families in our province is to have children and youth involved in sport, recreation and cultural activities,” Parks, Culture and Sport Minister Alana Ross said. “Fulfilling our commitment to doubling the Active Families Benefit means that more than 69,000 or 56 per cent of all families with children will be eligible in our province, ensuring that the families who need it most can access it.”

    Parents who enroll their children in sport, culture and recreation activities in the 2025 calendar year are reminded to keep their receipts so they may claim the benefit when they file their taxes for 2025.

    Many communities offer affordable and accessible activities for children and youth through local recreation facilities and community organizations.

    “Programs like the Active Families Benefit make a real difference for families in Moose Jaw,” City of Moose Jaw Mayor James Murdock said. “By helping reduce the cost of sports, recreation, and cultural activities, we are not only supporting affordability we are investing in the health, development, and wellbeing of our children.”  

    The following are eligible for the Active Family Benefit:

    • Sporting activities: that provide exposure, training, or participation in any field of sport in an organized and competitive environment that requires strategy, physical training and mental preparation.
    • Recreational activities:
      • that provide exposure, training, or participation in any field of recreation designed to refresh, provide satisfaction, entertain, and provide physical or mental benefits.
    • Cultural activities:
      • that provide exposure, training, or participation in the field of arts, heritage or multiculturalism.

    For more information on the Active Families Benefit visit the frequently asked questions at:

    https://www.saskatchewan.ca/residents/parks-culture-heritage-and-sport/sport-and-recreation/programs-and-supports/active-families-benefit.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Apple and MLB announce September “Friday Night Baseball” schedule

    Source: Apple

    Headline: Apple and MLB announce September “Friday Night Baseball” schedule

    Apple and Major League Baseball (MLB) today unveiled the September schedule for “Friday Night Baseball,” the weekly doubleheader streaming every Friday on Apple TV+ throughout the 2025 regular season. Available in 60 countries and regions, fans can enjoy two marquee matchups each week with enhanced production quality, expert commentary, and no local broadcast restrictions.

    September “Friday Night Baseball” Schedule on Apple TV+ 

    Friday, 9/5
     Washington Nationals at Chicago Cubs
    2:20 p.m. ET

    Milwaukee Brewers at Pittsburgh Pirates
    6:40 p.m. ET

    Friday, 9/12
     New York Yankees at Boston Red Sox
    7:10 p.m. ET

    Los Angeles Angels at Seattle Mariners
    10:10 p.m. ET

    Friday, 9/19
     Toronto Blue Jays at Kansas City Royals
    7:40 p.m. ET

    San Francisco Giants at Los Angeles Dodgers
    10:10 p.m. ET

    Friday, 9/26
     Detroit Tigers at Boston Red Sox
    7:10 p.m. ET (makeup game)

    September highlights include late-season games with serious playoff implications, featuring baseball’s most historic rivalries. Reigning MVP Aaron Judge and the New York Yankees visit Fenway Park to take on the Boston Red Sox on September 12, and Shohei Ohtani and the defending champion Los Angeles Dodgers face off with the San Francisco Giants at Dodger Stadium on September 19.

    Presented by Chevrolet and Essilor, “Friday Night Baseball” is produced by MLB Network’s Emmy Award-winning production team in partnership with Apple’s live sports production team.

    Each week, coverage features distinguished broadcast teams, including Wayne Randazzo (play-by-play), Dontrelle Willis (analyst), Heidi Watney (sideline reporter), Alex Faust (play-by-play), Ryan Spilborghs (analyst), and Tricia Whitaker (sideline reporter). Game-by-game announcer assignments will be revealed weekly. Siera Santos, Russell Dorsey, and Xavier Scruggs return to host live pregame coverage from the studio and on the field throughout the month.

    Pricing and Availability

    Apple TV+ is available for $9.99 (U.S.) per month with a seven-day free trial for new subscribers. For a limited time, eligible customers who purchase and activate a new iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, or Mac can enjoy three months of Apple TV+ for free.1

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI: Mark Cuban Foundation and Who We Play For Bring Free AI Bootcamp to Melbourne Teens

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MELBOURNE, Fla., July 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — High school students in Melbourne have the chance to get hands-on experience with artificial intelligence through a free AI Bootcamp launched by the Mark Cuban Foundation, in partnership with Who We Play For and Groundswell Startups. Applications close September 30.

    This event brings the only artificial intelligence (AI) camp of its kind, free of charge, to the Space Coast. With a custom and highly-relevant curriculum focused on teaching students about the latest developments in the world of AI and Generative AI, the camp will provide the tools to make these technologies work for them and promises to educate, inspire and fuel the next generation of AI professionals.

    The program aims to provide students with a foundational understanding of artificial intelligence and its applications to future careers. Students can select from six tracks: healthcare, arts and entertainment, business and entrepreneurship, computer science, sports science, or education and career readiness. Driven by the belief that fostering interest in AI at a young age is crucial for preparing the next generation for their future, the AI Bootcamps are introductory and accessible to students in 9-12 grade with an interest in technology. Students do not need any familiarity with computer science or programming to attend.

    This free AI Bootcamp is hosted for underserved high school students with a transparent focus on recruiting girls, students of color, first generation college students, and those from low to moderate income households. The AI Bootcamp Program provides students with lunch and a snack, transportation assistance, and technology equipment during bootcamp.

    “As AI continues to become an undeniable force in all of our lives, it’s crucial that we open the door to this knowledge, especially to young people who want to explore it,” said Mark Cuban, founder. “While technology expands and becomes more advanced, it becomes more critical that we ensure our students are prepared when they apply for schools or jobs in the future. Thanks to our work with Who We Play For and Groundswell Startups, the bootcamp will offer an avenue to explore this fascinating field of technology to any student, no matter their means.”

    This year’s bootcamp, taking place in Melbourne on November 1st, 8th, and 15th is hosted and staffed by Groundswell Startups and Who We Play For, two organizations dedicated to fostering innovation, growth, and opportunity on the Space Coast.

    Who We Play For, a nonprofit organization committed to preventing sudden cardiac death in young people by providing affordable and accessible heart screenings. Founded in memory of Rafe Maccarone, a local student-athlete who lost his life to sudden cardiac arrest in 2007, the organization works tirelessly to ensure that no family, team, or community has to experience a similar loss. Through partnerships with schools, sports clubs, and community organizations, Who We Play For brings non-invasive heart screenings to youth across the country while raising awareness about the importance of early detection and advocating for increased access to life-saving resources.

    Groundswell Startups, founded in 2016, is a non-profit incubator and coworking space bringing concepts to life and accelerating scalability for businesses ranging from tech to manufacturing in Florida’s Space Coast and around the Southeast region.

    “This partnership reflects what Groundswell was built to do,” said Groundswell Co-Founder Bud Deffebach. “Events like these empower the next generation of tech innovators to understand and utilize AI. We are proud to join with the Mark Cuban Foundation in providing this experience to local students.”

    This partnership is one of more than 25 selected to host camps across the U.S. and the only event hosted in Florida.

    “We are thrilled to partner with the Mark Cuban Foundation and Groundswell Startups to share insights on artificial intelligence and the importance of early exposure to emerging technologies. This partnership is a great opportunity to showcase how AI is driving meaningful impact in our work here at Who We Play For, and we are proud to bring the AI Bootcamp to our hometown,” said Who We Play For Technical Director, Klynton Holmes.

    There are just 9 weeks left until the September 30 deadline. Do not miss your chance—submit your application now, as spaces are limited.

    Apply for the bootcamp at: markcubanai.org.

    Watch Mark Cuban’s message about Mark Cuban Foundation’s AI bootcamps and access the full media kit here.

    To learn more, visit markcubanai.org.

    This bootcamp is facilitated with support from Mark Cuban Foundation AI Bootcamp Program’s media partner, Notified, a globally trusted technology partner for investor relations, public relations and marketing professionals.

    About Mark Cuban Foundation’s AI Bootcamp Initiative
    The Mark Cuban Foundation is a 501(c)(3) private non-profit led by entrepreneur and investor Mark Cuban. The AI Bootcamps Program at MCF seeks to inspire young people with emerging technology so that they can create more equitable futures for themselves and their communities. Over 3 consecutive Saturdays underserved 9th – 12th grade students learn what AI is and isn’t, where they already interact with AI in their own lives, the ethical implications of AI systems, and much more. Learn more about the no-cost AI Bootcamp program at markcubanai.org.

    About Who We Play For

    WWPF represents every young person who lost their life to sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). Our fight is to ensure that other families, teams, and communities will never know that pain.

    On our mission to eliminate preventable sudden cardiac death in the young through affordable heart screenings, WWPF has screened over 450,000 youth across more than 500 communities throughout the United States. As a result of WWPF’s screening program, more than 450 youth with life threatening heart conditions have received immediate, life-saving medical intervention and thousands more are now aware of cardiac abnormalities that may increase their risk for SCA later in life.

    Alongside the world’s leaders in pediatric cardiology, our vision is to elevate the standard of care for ALL youth, no matter their level of athletics, socio-economic status or geographical location.

    About Groundswell Startups

    Groundswell, a nonprofit high-tech incubator in Florida’s Space Coast, serves as a hub that unites founders, mentors, investors, and trusted support services. Our mission is simple yet powerful: to envelop entrepreneurs in a supportive ecosystem abundant with resources. We pave the way for company building, industry disruption, and scalable growth. At Groundswell, we believe in empowering startups with the essential network and resources to thrive in the heart of the Space Coast’s innovation landscape. Learn more or find support for your startup idea at www.swellstartups.com.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: Pelvic floor training can help active women avoid exercise-related symptoms

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Holly Ingram, Senior Midwifery Lecturer, Anglia Ruskin University

    Dudarev Mikhail/Shutterstock

    Are you a woman who exercises regularly? If so, here’s a vital question: do you train your pelvic floor muscles as part of your routine?

    If the answer is no, now’s the time to start. It’s never too late to protect yourself from pelvic floor dysfunction – and the benefits go far beyond avoiding leaks.

    The pelvic floor is a complex hammock of muscles and ligaments stretching from the front of your pelvis to your tailbone. It weaves around the urethra, vagina and anus, supporting the pelvic organs and helping them stay in the right place.

    These muscles are essential for bladder and bowel control, sexual function and core stability. In fact, your pelvic floor works alongside the diaphragm, abdominal muscles, and back muscles in what’s known as the “core canister” or “core rectangle.” Together, they help stabilise the spine, protect internal organs, and support movement, especially in high-impact or strength-based activities.

    How does sport affect pelvic floor health?

    Many sports rely heavily on core strength. Running, jumping, lifting and full-contact sports like rugby all demand stability, control and muscular endurance. But they also place significant strain on the pelvic floor.

    That’s why pelvic floor dysfunction is surprisingly common among sportswomen. Around one in two women in the UK will experience pelvic floor symptoms at some point in their lives – but rates are even higher among female athletes. A 2024 study of female rugby players found that 63% experienced pelvic floor dysfunction serious enough to affect both their performance and daily life, often requiring physiotherapy or specialist support.

    Movements such as jumping, running, landing and breath-holding during exertion all increase intra-abdominal pressure, which pushes down on the pelvic floor. Without proper conditioning, these muscles can become strained or fatigued, especially if they’re weaker than the surrounding core muscles.

    Endurance sports can also take their toll, causing the pelvic floor to repeatedly contract under pressure. Like any muscle, the pelvic floor is susceptible to overuse injuries and needs time to recover.

    Pelvic floor dysfunction can show up in several ways, including leaking urine or faeces during exercise, coughing or sneezing; disrupted bowel habits; a heavy or dragging feeling in the lower abdomen or vagina; pain during sex; a bulging sensation or visible tissue in the vaginal area; and pelvic organ prolapse.

    These symptoms may appear during exercise – or at rest – and often worsen over time without the right support or training.

    Exercise can help with pelvic floor dysfunction – only if the pelvic floor is actively and effectively engaged. Many workouts target the abs or general core, but if the pelvic floor isn’t included with the same intensity, muscular imbalances can develop. Combined with gravity and high-impact movement, this puts the pelvic floor at greater risk of dysfunction.

    The good news? The pelvic floor responds well to training. With regular, focused practice, these muscles become stronger, more coordinated and more resilient – helping to prevent dysfunction and even aiding recovery after childbirth.

    How to train your pelvic floor

    Not sure where to start? Here’s a simple exercise:

    1. Imagine you’re holding in wind – gently contract your anus.

    2. Next, squeeze your urethra as if stopping a flow of urine.

    3. Now, lift upwards through the vagina.

    4. Hold the contraction for a few seconds (or as long as you comfortably can), then release.

    That’s one pelvic floor contraction: well done!

    Try doing a few reps at a time, and gradually build up. You can incorporate these into your run, add them to your core workout, or practise them during rest days or cool-downs. The goal is to make pelvic floor training a regular part of your routine.

    Your pelvic floor deserves just as much attention as your abs, glutes or quads. If you’re a woman who exercises, training these deep core muscles can boost your performance, reduce your risk of injury and support your overall health now and in the future.

    So next time you lace up your trainers or hit the gym, don’t forget your pelvic floor. Your body will thank you.

    Holly Ingram does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Pelvic floor training can help active women avoid exercise-related symptoms – https://theconversation.com/pelvic-floor-training-can-help-active-women-avoid-exercise-related-symptoms-259711

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Old pontoon and link bridge at Mount Batten Pier to go

    Source: City of Plymouth

    Work will start next week (last week of July) to remove the old link bridge and pontoon at Mount Batten Pier.

    The structure has been closed to the public since last spring and ferry services rerouted to the landing stage at the Mount Batten Water Sports and Activities Centre nearby.

    An investigation earlier this year found that cracks detected within the bridge link to the pontoon had opened up significantly and could break at any time, posing a risk to marine traffic in the vicinity. Bracing works were carried out to the structure as a temporary measure while options were considered.

    Marine traffic were made aware and asked to keep their distance from the structure.

    The Council has been looking at the logistics of removing the bridge and pontoon and following a competitive tender process, has now entered into an arrangement to transfer ownership of the bridge and pontoon to Voyager Marine, who will also carry out the works to safely remove the structure.

    Logistics are being finalised but this move expected to start next week, subject to tide and weather.

    The Mount Batten Water Taxi service has been using the Mount Batten Sailing and Watersports Centre pontoon to operate since the closure.

    The link bridge will be removed by barge when high tide facilitates this and will be towed away, with the pontoon, to Voyager Boat Yard where they will be repurposed. The work will also involve removal of the piles below the seabed.

    The Plymouth Sound National Marine Park project have plans in train to replace the centre’s pontoon with a new structure. These plans have been extended to include extra provision for the Mount Batten Water Taxi to enable a return to a full service.

    The Council, is working in partnership on the project with the Plymouth Sound National Marine Park and the Mount Batten Centre and its board. Detailed onsite investigations have been carried out and the Council has issued a tender for work to build a new pontoon, with associated seabed infrastructure.

    The contract is expected to be awarded later this summer.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: As Mexico’s LGBTQ+ community battles for inclusion, two drag performers have become internet stars – with more than 2 million TikTok followers

    Source: The Conversation – USA (2) – By Francisco Tijerina, PhD Candidate in Hispanic Studies, Washington University in St. Louis

    Turbulence Queen, left, and Burrita Burrona perform at the Mexico City Pride Parade in June 2024. Jaime Nogales/Medios y Media via Getty Images News

    In January 2022, Erick Martínez, also known as Turbulence Queen, introduced a guest on his YouTube channel: Ivan “Momo” Guzmán, with the stage name Burrita Burrona, a drag performer wearing a cartoonish donkey costume topped by a wig.

    During their interview, Turbulence and Burrita shared stories, gossiped and threw shade at Mexican actors, newscasters and performers. Soon after, their careers took off.

    Before Burrita’s first appearance, Turbulence’s YouTube channel had fewer than 5,000 subscribers. Now, after the rebranding of the show to include Burrita’s name, their channel has about 375,000. More than 2 million subscribe to them on TikTok – Turbulence, with 600,000 followers and 16 million likes; Burrita with 1.5 million followers and 28 million likes. Their “El Podcast del Momento” has more than 225,000 subscribers.

    The two proved so popular that corporate sponsors started getting in on the action. Soriana, a large supermarket chain in Mexico, splashed their images on a line of cakes. Netflix Latin America had them hosting a series of videos promoting its new South Korean dramas. The media giant Televisa included Turbulence and Burrita as part of their comedic coverage of the 2024 Paris Olympics.

    Over the past 3 ½ years, the YouTube show has added some new characters, including Burrita’s mom and an on-and-off love interest, a butch lesbian wolf. Along with the interviews, the characters do comedic cooking segments and sketches. Even in today’s fragmented and cluttered media environment, the program regularly gets around 250,000 views, with some episodes reaching more than 1 million.

    While drag performers are not new in Mexico, Burrita is something of a novelty: a drag mascot. Although long a part of Mexico’s commercial culture – mascots promote everything from soccer teams to pharmacies and are a staple at children’s birthday parties – Burrita is the first to do it in drag.

    A clip from an episode of ‘El Podcast del Momento.’

    Discrimination and violence

    As a Mexican scholar who specializes in the study of gender and sexuality, I’m struck by how these LGBTQ+ characters have become enormously popular in what I consider a relatively conservative and deeply religious country. However, that too is changing: Today’s Mexico is sometimes called a conservative country with liberal laws. Still, in a country where about 5% of the population self-identify as LGBTQ+, the battle for inclusion – and more diverse representation of gender and sexuality – is far from over.

    In 2023, conservative groups pressured the International Book Fair of Monterrey to cancel a public short-story reading by drag queens. In 2024, a social media influencer’s misogynistic, homophobic and transphobic remarks ran live on national television. Also in 2024, San Nicolás de los Garza, a city of more than 400,000 people, banned public performances by drag queens. Ironically, San Nicolás is in the state of Nuevo Leon, which has one of the largest LGBTQ+ populations in Mexico.

    Indeed, national policies protecting the LGBTQ+ community don’t always apply equally; some states are more restrictive than others. For example, although Mexico’s Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage in 2015, three states have yet to ratify it in their state constitutions.

    Turbulence Queen is interviewed on local TV at a 2023 red carpet event in Mexico.
    Jaime Nogales/Medios y Media via Getty Images Entertainment

    In May 2025, Mexico’s National Institute of Statistics and Geography reported these findings: 60% of the LGBTQ+ community say they’ve been subjected to some form of violence. Nearly 30% have had suicidal thoughts or have attempted suicide. Just over 37% say they experienced some form of discrimination during the past year. From 2020 to 2025, 25% said they were denied access to health care, education or social support. Hate crimes are on the rise, with 672 reported over a five-year period, including 141 in 2024, a significant jump from the 92 reported in 2023. The 2024 statistic includes 55 murders of transgender women.

    Taking off the mask

    Turbulence and Burrita’s swift success is impressive, but not all LGBTQ+ citizens in Mexico enjoy the same level of recognition and privilege. And as the fight for equal treatment continues, the country’s politics over the past decade has shifted. In 2018, leftist Andrés Manuel López Obrador was elected president. His successor, Claudia Sheinbaum, a climate scientist and a close ally of López Obrador’s, was elected in 2024.

    But although both López Obrador and Sheinbaum are more progressive than previous administrations, neither has been particularly vocal about their support for the LGBTQ+ community. For instance: Although Sheinbaum, Mexico’s first female and Jewish president, mentioned her support for the LGBTQ+ community during her campaign, she has largely ignored LGBTQ+ issues since taking office.

    Until recently, there were few openly LGBTQ+ people pitching products or appearing on television. But Guzmán, who’s the first mascot to perform in drag, is not hiding his sexuality, despite the costume. Rather, he can be read as a symbol of Mexico’s ongoing pursuit of equality. And perhaps his character’s visibility will allow more in the community to be able to shed their masks and come out.

    Francisco Tijerina does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. As Mexico’s LGBTQ+ community battles for inclusion, two drag performers have become internet stars – with more than 2 million TikTok followers – https://theconversation.com/as-mexicos-lgbtq-community-battles-for-inclusion-two-drag-performers-have-become-internet-stars-with-more-than-2-million-tiktok-followers-241552

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Business leaders welcome the UK-India Free Trade Agreement

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Business leaders welcome the UK-India Free Trade Agreement

    Business leaders have strongly welcomed the signing of the UK-India Free Trade Agreement.

    Business leaders have strongly welcomed the signing of the UK-India Free Trade Agreement, as Business and Trade Secretary, Jonathan Reynolds and India’s Commerce and Industry Minister, Piyush Goyal, signed the landmark trade deal.

    The £4.8bn trade deal will unlock economic growth for each region and nation of the UK, and is widely backed by large and small businesses across aerospace, financial and professional services, food and drink, and the automotive sector.

    Business Groups  

    Rain Newton-Smith, CEO, CBI said: 

    In an era of rising protectionism, today’s announcement sends a powerful signal that the UK is open for business and remains resolute in its commitment to free and fair trade.  

    A trade agreement with India – one of the world’s fastest-growing economies – is a springboard for long-term partnership and prosperity. UK firms can take advantage of this new platform to scale, diversify and compete on the global stage.  

    The CBI looks forward to working closely alongside the Confederation of Indian Industry to turn ambition into action and negotiation into real-world impact. Ensuring this agreement delivers tangible benefits for businesses on both sides will be critical to meeting the UK’s growth ambitions.

    William Bain, Head of Trade Policy at the BCC, said: 

    The signing of this agreement is a clear signal of the UK’s continuing commitment to free and fair trade. It will open a new era for our businesses and boost investment between two of the world’s largest economies.    

    Currently around 16,000 UK companies are trading goods with Indian companies, and there is high interest in our Chamber Network to grow that.  This deal will create new opportunities in the transport, travel, creative and business support sectors alongside traditional strengths in finance and professional services.

    Policy Chair of the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), Tina McKenzie, said: 

    India is the fourth largest economy in the world, and today’s trade deal provides exciting growth potential for UK small businesses. 

    Already one-in-seven (14%) of our members who export have India among their overseas markets, and this deal opens the way for that number to grow. It’s welcome that the agreement includes a specific small business chapter. 

    Encouraging more small firms to trade internationally, and making it easier for those who already do to increase their international trade, is an important flank in the quest for economic growth. Reducing barriers is key to achieving that.

    Richard Heald OBE, Chair, UK-India Business Council, said:  

    The UK-India FTA marks a historic milestone in the bilateral relationship.

    Businesses across both countries have long called for an agreement that reduces barriers, enhances market access, and creates a clear framework for long-term, sustainable growth. We congratulate both governments for their commitment and ambition in bringing this complex negotiation to fruition. Success in the FTA will support further economic growth for the world’s 5th and 6th largest economies. It will catalyse collaboration into other areas too.

    Aerospace  

    Tufan Erginbiligic, Rolls-Royce CEO, said: 

    India is an important market for our business, with over 90 years of partnership with Indian industry and the Indian Government.

    We welcome the provisions in this Free Trade Agreement, including those that bring closer alignment with international standards for trade in civil aerospace.

    These agreements will benefit Rolls-Royce and our customers, paving the way for future aerospace growth in India.

    Financial and professional services 

    Ian Stuart, CEO of HSBC UK, said: 

    Today’s signing of the UK-India Free Trade Agreement marks an important milestone for both countries.

    This is a vibrant and fast-growing corridor and will bring huge opportunities for both British and Indian businesses as they seek to grow internationally.  

    As the world’s largest trade bank with deep roots in both countries, we look forward to supporting our clients to take advantage of the full benefits of this historic agreement. 

    Bill Winters CBE, Group Chief Executive of Standard Chartered and Co-Chair of the UK-India Financial Partnership, said: 

    This landmark agreement between the UK and India – two of the world’s largest and most dynamic economies – is a tremendous achievement.

    It will drive greater innovation, unlock growth, and build prosperity across this long-established corridor of trade, capital and investment.

    As one of the largest and oldest international banks in India, we welcome the certainty the FTA provides for UK services and the meaningful opportunities that lower tariffs will create for businesses large and small in both markets.

    Rohan Malik, EY EMEIA and UK & Ireland Government & Public Sector Managing Partner, said:   

    Over the past decade, total trade value between the UK and India has more than doubled from £16.6bn to £40bn and this agreement will further strengthen the flourishing economic relationship between the two countries. 

    Enhanced access to one of the world’s largest markets should offer considerable advantages for financial and professional services businesses, unlocking commercial opportunities and supporting growth across two strategically significant sectors of the UK economy.

    Adam Gagen, Global Head of Government Affairs at Revolut, said:  

    As a UK fintech with significant business in India, we welcome the announcement of this UK-India FTA.

    It is an important partnership to bring these two vital economies closer together and to foster improved trade links, better investment flows and more jobs.

    Revolut looks forward to working with the UK Government to maximise the value of this FTA and we strongly congratulate the hard work of DBT for getting this over the line.

    Nicola Watkinson, Managing Director for International, TheCityUK, said:  

    India is a market with huge growth potential and a strong FTA between our two markets will open up valuable new trade and investment opportunities for UK businesses.

    The UK financial and related professional services industry is well placed to support India’s growth ambitions through the provision of services in areas such as green finance, risk management and capital market development, as well as benefit from India’s digital innovations.

    We welcome the formal signing of the FTA and look forward to continuing to build on its foundations to forge a strong and lasting partnership with India.

    Automotives  

    Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said:  

    The UK-India trade agreement represents a significant achievement, partially liberalising the Indian automotive market for the first time.

    While the highly complex deal confirms some compromises, its entry into force will provide commercial opportunities for UK manufacturers who will be able to access vastly reduced tariffs on internal combustion vehicles from day one, and on electrified vehicles and parts in the longer term.

    To ensure maximum and timely benefit, we now need rapid ratification and renewed efforts to agree fair and workable solutions on tariff-rate-quotas administration.

    A JLR spokesperson said:  

    We welcome this free trade agreement between the UK and India, which over time will deliver reduced tariff access to the Indian car market for JLR’s luxury vehicles.

    India is an important market for our British built products and represents significant future growth opportunities.

    Food and drink 

    Nik Jhangiani, Interim Chief Executive, Diageo, said: 

    This agreement marks a great moment for both Scotch and Scotland, and we’ll be raising a glass of Johnnie Walker to all those who have worked so hard to get it secured. 

    Jean-Etienne Gourgues, Chivas Brothers Chairman and CEO, said: 

    Signature of the UK-India FTA is a sign of hope in challenging times for the spirits industry. 

    India is the world’s biggest whisky market by volume and greater access will be an eventual game changer for the export of our Scotch whisky brands, such as Chivas Regal and Ballantine’s.

    The deal will support long term investment and jobs in our distilleries in Speyside and our bottling plant at Kilmalid and help deliver growth in both Scotland and India over the next decade.

    Let’s hope that both governments will move quickly to ratification so business can get to work implementing the deal!

    Mark Kent, Chief Executive of the SWA said:  

    The Scotch Whisky industry has long championed a free trade agreement between the UK and India.

    The signing of the FTA is an historic moment and is an important milestone to reducing tariffs on Scotch Whisky in a growing market.

    This will contribute to the government’s growth objective, by laying the foundations for further investment and jobs.

    George Hyde, Head of Trade, The Food and Drink Federation: 

    We’re pleased to see the details of the new Free Trade Agreement with India, with tariffs for iconic British products, including chocolate, breakfast cereals and biscuits set to be phased out over the next decade.

    We also welcome that this agreement protects the UK’s sugar and rice milling sectors, reflecting the vital role these industries play in boosting local economies. 

    With exports of UK food and drink to India already worth nearly £300 million annually, improved access to this growing market will help strengthen the competitiveness of our sector and help future-proof the nation’s food security.

    We look forward to working with government to help businesses make the most of this opportunity.

    Nick Spencer, Export and Travel Retail Manager at Southwestern Distillery Ltd, said: 

    There are tremendous hurdles for UK spirits producers in terms of entering and succeeding in the Indian market.

    The extremely high import tariffs are probably the most significant barrier to entry we have experienced anywhere internationally.

    The FTA is a fabulous step forward. Since its announcement, we have already received significant new interest from Indian importers and the prospect of success in the Indian market now looks much brighter.

    Stephen Davies, Chief Executive of Penderyn Distillery, said:  

    We are developing our business and brand awareness in both domestic and travel retail sectors in India. It’s an exciting and developing market for us.

    The agreement to reduce tariffs will provide a better platform for us and our industry to develop links and build business over the next five years.

    These are exciting times. 

    Medtech  

    Gordon Sanghera, CEO of Oxford Nanopore Technologies, said:  

    The UK-India Free Trade Agreement is more than a policy document it’s a foundation for action. 

    India’s deep scientific talent, clear ambition and growing global influence make it one of the most exciting places in the world to build long-term partnerships in science and healthcare.

    And this moment, with the FTA in place, gives companies like ours the confidence to invest, to scale and to co-create in ways that weren’t possible before.

    Deepak Nath, Chief Executive Officer, Smith+Nephew, said: 

    Given the size of the Indian economy and its healthcare system, India is an important location for Smith+Nephew. The Free Trade Agreement offers the potential to build trading links in the healthcare sector. 

    We hope that the Free Trade Agreement will enable Smith+Nephew’s innovative medical technologies to support more healthcare professionals to return their patients to health and mobility.

    Philip McKee, Sales Manager at Biopanda, a Belfast-based medtech manufacturer which exports in vitro test kits for clinical laboratories, veterinary practice, and food safety laboratories, said:   

    Biopanda have been supplying a range of diagnostic products to the Indian market throughout the past ten years. We value the business we have done already throughout India and with the introduction of the UK-India FTA this should benefit in increased trade with the removal of export barriers.  

    This will hopefully increase the market access, allowing our distributors throughout India to provide a larger range of our highly accurate clinical diagnostic products at a lower price to the consumer. 

    Manufacturing 

    Graeme Macdonald, JCB Chief Executive, said:  

    India is a great country in which to do business. JCB has been manufacturing machines there since 1979. So, we know India very well and the opportunity for British businesses in that huge market is significant.  

    It’s the fifth largest economy in the world and is tipped to become the third largest by 2028. This Free Trade Agreement should give British businesses the confidence they need to enter the market, trade more easily and benefit from the massive opportunity.

    Professor Carl Stephen Patrick Hunter OBE, Chairman Coltraco Ultrasonics Limited & Director-General The Durham Institute of Research, Development & Invention, said: 

    Coltraco Ultrasonics is strongly supportive of the India FTA Trade Agreement and proud to have modestly contributed to and advising the British negotiating team on various chapters. 

    The UK private sector can now, because of the India FTA, the Windsor Framework CPTPP, and a variety of other UK FTAs, look out to the world, balancing our exporting and investment opportunities between the USA, the EU and Asia Pacific. 

    It is a tremendous success and we thank British and Indian Civil Servants for their public service in the UK-India FTA.

    Mark Ridgway OBE DL, CEO of Rhodes Group, said: 

    As a manufacturer of advanced metalforming machinery used in the forming and lightweighting of aircraft, India is a strong market for Group Rhodes and offers significant growth potential. The recent UK-India trade deal not only sets the scene for reduced tariffs on machinery but also serves to both enhance our competitiveness as a UK exporter and reduce the complexity of trade with this fast-growing market. 

    Importantly, the UK-India FTA recognises UK origin content of at least 20% as qualification as a ‘local supplier’ in India. This provides equal treatment in the Indian government procurement process and the opportunity for Group Rhodes to build on its existence reference sites within the Indian aerospace sector.

    Idir Boudaoud, Founder and CEO at Sensoteq, said: 

    India is a key growth market for Sensoteq — its vast and rapidly evolving manufacturing sector aligns perfectly with our mission to improve machine reliability through smarter monitoring. This trade deal is a real breakthrough for us. 

    Simplified and transparent customs procedures, modernised rules of origin, and stronger IP protections mean we can enter the market with greater speed, confidence, and security. 

    This agreement gives businesses like ours the access and assurance needed to thrive in one of the world’s most important industrial markets.

    William Crawford, Director of Concrete Canvas Ltd, said:  

    India is a dynamic and vibrant economy and an increasingly important market for Concrete Canvas products. A UK-India FTA will help to accelerate our plans for growth by reducing trade barriers and making us more competitive. 

    This is welcome news for both UK and Indian businesses!

    Creative Industries 

    Richard Masters, Premier League Chief Executive, said: 

    India continues to be incredibly important to the Premier League and our clubs. It is a vibrant country that presents exciting opportunities and significant potential. The opening of our office in Mumbai earlier this year was a significant milestone for the Premier League, demonstrating our commitment to build on longstanding work to engage local fans, develop grassroots and elite football and further promote the game in India.   

    The continued growth of the Premier League and UK businesses in India will have a positive impact on our domestic economy. We welcome the signing of this new trade deal which will support UK businesses operating in India.

    Richard Pring, Co-Founder at Wales Interactive, said: 

    The UK-India Free Trade Agreement has the potential to strengthen creative partnerships and streamline production across borders. With India’s vast film and television industry, it creates new opportunities for studios like ours to collaborate with international talent and share our interactive stories and games with even wider audiences. 

    Digital and Tech 

    Simon Hansford, Chief Commercial Officer at Civo, a cloud provider founded in Hertfordshire, said:  

    The UK-India trade deal is a game-changer for UK businesses. Significant tariff reductions on our exports will mean our products can be more competitive and accessible in India’s rapidly growing market. Guaranteed access to India’s public procurement market and simplified customs processes could be transformational for many.  

    This deal offers substantial benefits, boosting confidence and creating new avenues for growth in areas that were previously challenging to navigate, making it easier for UK SMEs to trade and thrive internationally.

    Clean Energy  

    Neil Spann, CEO of Power Roll, said: 

    As a UK clean energy company committed to fostering global impact, the UK-India trade agreement marks a significant milestone for us.  It lowers barriers to entry and enhances our ability to collaborate with Indian partners in one of the world’s most dynamic renewable energy markets. India’s ambitious solar targets and drive for domestic innovation align perfectly with our flexible solar technology and long-term growth strategy.  

    As one of the world’s fastest-growing economies and a key player in the global renewable energy transition, India presents a major opportunity for UK clean energy technology. This trade deal enables us to position UK flexible solar as a key solution to India’s energy goals. We are excited to continue to build upon our existing relationships with valued collaborators by expanding our presence in India following a successful visit earlier this year.

    Transport 

    Chris Woodroofe, Manchester Airport Managing Director, said:  

    We are proud this new route with IndiGo will deliver growth here in the North, and for the UK as a whole. 

    Boosted by the new UK-India FTA, the direct connectivity it provides will unlock opportunities for the region’s businesses to trade with India and will facilitate investment into the UK. 

    That will help turbo charge the Government’s Industrial Strategy by boosting innovation and productivity in the sectors that will sit at the heart of the country’s future prosperity.

    Textiles  

    Bill Leach, Global Sales Director, John Smedley Ltd, said: 

    India is one of the fastest growing luxury markets in the world, and we are very excited about the UK- India Free Trade Agreement coming to fruition. 

    John Smedley knitwear is already sold in over 50 countries around the world, and now that the FTA has been signed, we shall very much look forward to ensuring that an ever-increasing number of discerning luxury consumers in India will enjoy greater access to The World’s Finest Knitwear. 

    We are thankful to DBT for their significant efforts in bringing this FTA to successful conclusion.

    Cosmetics 

    Dr Emma Meredith OBE, Director-General, CTPA (Cosmetic, Toiletry and Perfumery Association), said:  

    The UK-India Free Trade Agreement (FTA) represents a significant opportunity for the cosmetics and personal care industry.  Tariff reduction and the commitments to ongoing cooperation will enhance market access and create new opportunities for growth for UK brands and manufacturers.  CTPA welcomes the strengthening of the bilateral ties through the negotiation process, a great first step in the delivery of substantial benefits for our sector.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Nelson Mandela Bay, UNISA forge groundbreaking library partnership

    Source: Government of South Africa

    The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality has launched a pioneering partnership with the University of South Africa (UNISA) to dramatically expand access to library services for students and the broader public within the metro.

    Launched on Tuesday at New Brighton Library, the collaboration aims to enhance educational opportunities by transforming municipal libraries into resource hubs that support both UNISA students and lifelong learners.

    Under the agreement, municipal libraries will provide free internet and computer access, designated study spaces, and serve as convenient delivery and collection points for UNISA library materials.

    Through this collaboration, the municipality’s libraries will offer internet and computer facilities, provide study spaces, and serve as convenient delivery and collection points for UNISA library materials.

    As part of the agreement, the following areas of collaboration were outlined:
    •    Reciprocal participation in annual events and programmes.
    •    ICT training and support, primarily facilitated by UNISA.
    •    Distribution of UNISA brochures, posters, and event announcements in municipal libraries, and vice versa.
    •    Free internet access and usage of electronic resources for students, including Wi-Fi, databases, electronic reserves, journals, and books.
    •    Collaboration on courier services and information dissemination.
    •    Provision of study spaces for UNISA students.
    •    Joint efforts in marketing and communication to assess student satisfaction.
    •    Collaboration on sponsorships, such as provision of computers.
    •    Sharing of reports, statistics, and information.

    Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Executive Mayor, Babalwa Lobishe, hailed the initiative as a transformative moment for the metro’s education agenda.

    “We are not only opening library doors, but we are opening pathways to opportunity, to education, and to a better future for all. By extending the access to knowledge and technology, especially in our undeserved communities, we are affirming that education is the foundation of dignity, progress, and equality. This fits well in our efforts to build a people-centred and inclusive metro,” Lobishe said.

    UNISA Executive Director for Library Services, Professor Mpho Ngoepe echoed the mayor’s sentiments, saying the initiative marks the beginning of a journey and contributing to closing the inequality gap that leads to poverty, through knowledge and empowerment.

    “In this digital era, libraries must take intentional steps to reach users where they are. We are moving towards a time when UNISA library services will be accessible to everyone, including those who are not enrolled with UNISA.

    “This is the end of the era where universities were seen as inaccessible ivory towers. Through this partnership, we will also explore the dissemination of research outputs,” Ngoepe said.

    Member of the Mayoral Committee for Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, Sinesipho Kwatsha, emphasised the broader social impact of the initiative.

    “This partnership is about more than logistics, it is a social contract and a clear commitment that every learner matters, “no matter where they come from. Through this collaboration, learners from disadvantaged communities, who might not otherwise have access to conducive learning spaces and resources, will now be supported through our network of municipal libraries across the metro,” Kwatsha said. – SAnews.gov.za
     

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Simon Lewis appointed as Chair of UK Anti-Doping

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    Simon Lewis appointed as Chair of UK Anti-Doping

    The Secretary of State has appointed Simon Lewis as the new Chair of UK Anti-Doping (UKAD) for a term of 4 years.

    Simon Lewis

    Simon has been appointed as Chair of UK Anti-Doping and his term will commence on 4 August 2025.

    His background is primarily in the Legal Sector where he has practised as a barrister, in various relevant areas of law, and where he now sits as a fee-paid judge. Simon has served in a number of non-executive board-level roles: within workplace relations (at Acas); professional regulation (at Social Work England and at the Bar Standards Board); healthcare (at a mental health and community NHS trust); higher education (at England’s leading university for improving social mobility); sport governance; and charity. He has also acted in a range of independent regulatory roles across various sectors: within healthcare, sport, and finance/business.  

    Simon grew up in Wales and then Yorkshire, playing representative sports, before graduating from the University of Cambridge.

    On his appointment, Simon Lewis said:

    “It is an honour to be appointed as Chair of UKAD. Having worked extensively across regulatory and sporting landscapes, I’m excited to be able to govern and support an organisation so inextricably involved in both.

    “I want to ensure UKAD continues to bolster the UK’s strong reputation for clean and healthy sport across the four nations. I’m arriving at an important and busy time, with a host of major sporting events approaching, including the Women’s Rugby World Cup, the Winter Olympics and Paralympics, and the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. I look forward to working with the team, engaging with a wide range of stakeholders, and supporting UKAD’s goal to protect clean sport.”

    Lisa Nandy, Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport said:

    “I’m delighted to welcome Simon Lewis as the new Chair of UKAD. Simon has extensive experience in sport and law, which will ensure UKAD continues to deliver with professionalism and integrity.

    “Sport is part of our national story and as part of our Plan for Change we want to remove barriers to participation at grassroots and support athletes in elite settings. Upholding the values of clean sport and fair competition are absolutely vital in achieving this and as we welcome Simon, I’d like to thank departing Chair Trevor Pearce for all of his work during his tenure.”

    Jane Rumble, Chief Executive of UKAD said:

    “We are very pleased to welcome Simon to UKAD. Simon brings his deep and relevant legal and sport governance experience to us at a pivotal time. In addition to a busy sporting calendar of major events UKAD will also soon shape and deliver a new multi-year Strategic Plan. UKAD is also preparing for the launch of the 2027 World Anti-Doping Code.

    “On behalf of us all at UKAD we are looking forward to giving Simon a warm welcome as he takes up stewardship of our committed and brilliant team.

    “I would also like to thank our outgoing chair Trevor Pearce, who has been with us for nearly nine years, for his excellent stewardship at the helm of our organisation.”

    Remuneration and Governance Code

    The Chair of UK Anti-Doping is remunerated at a rate of £20,640 per annum. This appointment has been made in accordance with the Cabinet Office’s Governance Code on Public Appointments.

    The appointments process is regulated by the Commissioner for Public Appointments. Under the Code, any significant political activity undertaken by an appointee in the last five years must be declared. This is defined as including holding office, public speaking, making a recordable donation, or candidature for election. Simon has not declared any significant political activity.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Revived Sunderland Charity Returns to Support Next Generation of Athletes

    Source: City of Sunderland

    A long-standing Sunderland charity dedicated to supporting Sunderland’s athletes has been revived thanks to new funding from the Martin Laing Foundation and Sunderland City Council.

    The Sunderland Sports Fund, a charitable trust established over 20 years ago, provides financial support to talented young athletes and sportspeople with disabilities of all ages across the Sunderland area. After a period of inactivity during the Covid-19 pandemic, the charity is back in action, helping to nurture the city’s sporting talent.

    The funding will be used to award grants to individuals who live in, study in, or represent a sports club or organisation based in Sunderland. The goal is to break down financial barriers and ensure that no promising athlete is held back due to lack of resources.

    Grants awarded by the Sunderland Sports Fund can help pay for coaching fees, equipment and used towards travel expenses and accommodation for national and international competitions. These grants can help bridge the financial gap for athletes between amateur and elite status.

    Thanks to additional funding from Sunderland City Council the charity can now broaden its scope to help encourage more residents to get into sport. This includes directly funding coaches who will in turn help inspire and train more young people.

    Councillor Beth Jones, Cabinet Member for Communities, Culture and Tourism at Sunderland City Council, said: “The Sunderland Sports Fund is a fantastic charity that champions our young athletes and athletes with disabilities. It’s inspiring to see it brought back to life with this much-needed funding, ensuring we continue to support the next generation of sporting talent in our city, while also promoting the many health and wellbeing benefits that come from participating in sport.

    “It’s especially timely as Sunderland is set to host the opening match of the Women’s Rugby World Cup, shining an even brighter spotlight on women’s sport – and I’m delighted that one of the athletes receiving funding this year is a women’s rugby coach, helping inspire more local women and girls to get involved in the game.”

    To mark the revival, the charity held a relaunch event at Sunderland Fire Station, where it awarded bursaries to two young athletes and a rising young coach. Among the recipients was a female rugby coach from Houghton Rugby Club, who is using her qualifications to help drive participation in women’s and girls’ rugby.

    Jorja Spoors, Houghton Rugby Club Coach said: “The Sunderland Sports fund is a great opportunity offered to me thanks to Sunderland City Council. I’ll be using the fund to gain further qualifications, experience, and knowledge within the game and my coaching. The fund will help me to take my coaching to the highest levels available within rugby, with hopes to possibly pursue coaching as a career in the future.

    “It is amazing to see that Sunderland City Council have chosen to re-launch the fund to support upcoming athletes and coaches, like myself and the other recipients of the fund. It is also great to see the recognition that could be gained for women and girls within rugby and sport as a whole.”

    The relaunch event was hosted by former BBC Look North host Jeff Brown, who now serves as a trustee at Sunderland Sports Fund. Also in attendance was Gary Bennet, former SAFC player and Terry Deary, Sunderland born author of Horrible Histories, as well as the Deputy Mayor Councillor Melanie Thornton.

    In its 25 years, the Sunderland Sports Fund has awarded 670 grants to athletes and coaches across a great number of sports including boxing, basketball, swimming, skiing and more.

    Leslie Scott MBE, Chairman of Sunderland Sports Fund said: “This was a landmark occasion for our charity, not only celebrating its 25th year but also relaunching our mission to help Sunderland’s aspiring young athletes and coaches. Over the years, the achievements of our high achievers, some who have become world champions, has reflected positively on the reputation of the city. It is our hope that we will inspire the current and future cohorts of Sunderland’s young people, who are serious about taking part in competitive sports.”

    For more information or to apply for a grant, contact active@sunderland.gov.uk. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Iran/Israel: Iranian forces’ use of cluster munitions in ‘12 Day War’ violated international humanitarian law

    Source: Amnesty International –

    • Unlawful ballistic missile strikes utilizing cluster munitions landed in residential areas in Israel
    • “Cluster munitions are inherently indiscriminate weapons that must never be used ” – Erika Guevara Rosas

    The Iranian forces’ use of cluster munitions during the ‘12 Day War’ with Israel was a flagrant violation of international humanitarian law, Amnesty International said today.

    Last month, the Iranian forces fired ballistic missiles whose warheads contained submunitions into populated residential areas of Israel, in attacks endangering civilians. Amnesty International analysed photos and videos showing cluster munitions that, according to media reports, struck inside the Gush Dan metropolitan area around Tel Aviv on 19 June.

    In addition, the cities of Beersheba, southern Israel (20 June), and Rishon LeZion, to the south of Tel Aviv (22 June), were also struck with ordnance that left multiple impact craters consistent with the submunitions seen in Gush Dan. Such submunitions hit a school and basketball court in Beersheba, but no deaths or injuries were reported.

    “Cluster munitions are inherently indiscriminate weapons that must never be used. By using such weapons in or near populated residential areas, Iranian forces endangered civilian lives and demonstrated clear disregard for international humanitarian law,” said Erika Guevara Rosas, Amnesty International’s Senior Director for Research, Advocacy, Policy and Campaigns.

    “Civilians, particularly children, are most at risk of injury or death from unexploded submunitions. Iranian forces’ deliberate use of such inherently indiscriminate weapons is a blatant violation of international humanitarian law.”

    Customary international humanitarian law prohibits the use of inherently indiscriminate weapons, and launching indiscriminate attacks that kill or injure civilians constitutes a war crime.

    Civilians, particularly children, are most at risk of injury or death from unexploded submunitions.

    Erika Guevara Rosas, Amnesty International’s Senior Director for Research, Advocacy, Policy and Campaigns

    Cluster munitions are conventional ordnance designed to disperse or release small explosive submunitions. Typically, such submunitions are launched and dispersed by rockets, artillery, or air-dropped containers, scattering ordnance over a wide area, sometimes as large as a football pitch, which often remain unexploded.

    According to media reports, the warheads deployed by Iranian forces against Israel dispersed their payload several kilometres above the ground, spreading their submunitions over a very large area.

    Many systems have high “dud” rates, leaving large areas contaminated with unexploded ordnance which can remain lethal for years or even decades after a conflict has ended.

    The Convention on Cluster Munitions, which entered into force on 1 August 2010, bans the use, production, stockpiling and transfer of cluster munitions. Amnesty International has called on all states that have not acceded to the Convention on Cluster Munitions, including Iran and Israel, to become a party to it and strictly comply with its terms.

    Amnesty International sent questions regarding the use of cluster munitions to the Iranian authorities on 15 July 2025. At the time of publication, no response had yet been received.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Iran/Israel: Iranian forces’ use of cluster munition in ’12 day war’ violated international humanitarian law

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Unlawful ballistic missile strikes utilising cluster munitions landed in residential areas in Israel

    ‘Cluster munitions are inherently indiscriminate weapons that must never be used’ – Erika Guevara Rosas

    The Iranian forces’ use of cluster munitions during the ‘12 Day War’ with Israel was a flagrant violation of international humanitarian law, Amnesty International said today.

    Last month, the Iranian forces fired ballistic missiles whose warheads contained submunitions into populated residential areas of Israel, in attacks endangering civilians. Amnesty analysed photos and videos showing cluster munitions that, according to media reports, struck inside the Gush Dan metropolitan area around Tel Aviv on 19 June.

    In addition, the cities of Beersheba, southern Israel (20 June), and Rishon LeZion, to the south of Tel Aviv (22 June), were also struck with ordnance that left multiple impact craters consistent with the submunitions seen in Gush Dan. Such submunitions hit a school and basketball court in Beersheba, but no deaths or injuries were reported.

    Erika Guevara Rosas, Amnesty International’s Senior Director for Research, Advocacy, Policy and Campaigns, said:

    “Cluster munitions are inherently indiscriminate weapons that must never be used. By using such weapons in or near populated residential areas, Iranian forces endangered civilian lives and demonstrated clear disregard for international humanitarian law.

    “Civilians, particularly children, are most at risk of injury or death from unexploded submunitions. Iranian forces’ deliberate use of such inherently indiscriminate weapons is a blatant violation of international humanitarian law.”

    Customary international humanitarian law prohibits the use of inherently indiscriminate weapons, and launching indiscriminate attacks that kill or injure civilians constitutes a war crime.

    Cluster munitions are conventional ordnance designed to disperse or release small explosive submunitions. Typically, such submunitions are launched and dispersed by rockets, artillery, or air-dropped containers, scattering ordnance over a wide area, sometimes as large as a football pitch, which often remain unexploded.

    According to media reports, the warheads deployed by Iranian forces against Israel dispersed their payload several kilometres above the ground, spreading their submunitions over a very large area.

    Many systems have high “dud” rates, leaving large areas contaminated with unexploded ordnance which can remain lethal for years or even decades after a conflict has ended.

    The Convention on Cluster Munitions, which entered into force on 1 August 2010, bans the use, production, stockpiling and transfer of cluster munitions. Amnesty has called on all states that have not acceded to the Convention on Cluster Munitions, including Iran and Israel, to become a party to it and strictly comply with its terms.

    Amnesty sent questions regarding the use of cluster munitions to the Iranian authorities on 15 July. At the time of publication, no response had yet been received.

    Missiles fired at Israel

    On 19 June, media reported that the Israeli military announced that Iranian forces had fired “a missile that contained cluster submunitions at a densely populated civilian area” in central Israel, and that approximately 20 submunitions fell over an estimated eight-kilometre radius.

    Amnesty’s weapon experts were able to identify an unexploded submunition apparently found in the Gush Dan metropolitan area on 19 June. Amnesty could not independently establish where this submunition landed.

    According to Haaretz, another cluster munition struck the top floor of a home in Azor shortly after 7am where a man and his son had been asleep. The father and son were woken up by sirens and managed to reach a safe room downstairs just before the submunition hit.

    Amnesty’s weapons experts identified the submunitions (above) from images shared by the media, which cited Israeli military’s Home Front Command.

    Furthermore, media reports of simultaneous impacts in Beersheba on 20 June seemingly indicate that cluster munitions were also used in that area. Among the several locations that were hit, Amnesty was able to verify that a submunition hit the basketball court of Gevim School in Beersheba. No deaths or injuries were reported. However, due to the high dud rate, there is the possibility that unexploded munitions not yet found could cause death or injury in the future.

    Israeli media also reported a cluster munitions strike on Rishon LeZion on 22 June. Amnesty analysed photographs of a crater in a residential street, which was consistent with impact craters left by submunitions used in the attack on the Gush Dan area.

    The ballistic missiles used by Iranian forces proved wildly inaccurate, and thus completely inappropriate for use near or in civilian residential areas. For example, an analysis of the October 2024 ballistic missiles strikes by Iranian forces against Israel showed that the missiles missed their intended target by an average of half-a-kilometre or more.

    International humanitarian law prohibits indiscriminate attacks, including through the use of weapons which cannot be directed at a specific military objective.

    Fin-stabilised submunitions

    While it has not been possible to determine precisely what kind of ballistic missile was used in these three attacks, the submunitions it dispersed bear a striking resemblance to a fin-stabilised submunition that appeared to have landed in the city of Gorgan, Golestan province, in Iran on 18 September 2023, following a failed missile test. Two citizens were reportedly injured.

    A picture of the submunition was published by Mashregh News, a news organisation in Iran, amid widespread reports of multiple explosions being heard and ordnance landing in and around the city. The Iranian authorities did not acknowledge testing cluster munitions; instead, Iran’s Ministry of Defence announced on 18 September 2023 that: “During a research test of offensive and drone systems conducted in a desert area, one of the systems under testing experienced a technical malfunction, veered off its intended path, and disintegrated, with parts of it falling in areas of the city of Gorgan.”

    The cluster munitions used by the Iranian forces also bear external resemblance to those showcased during defence exhibitions in Tehran in 2016.

    Civilians killed

    During the escalation of hostilities between Israel and Iran, at least 1,100 people were killed in Iran, including at least 132 women and 45 children, according to Iran’s Foundation for Martyrs and Veterans Affairs. Amnesty is calling for Israel’s attack on Evin prison in Tehran on 23 June that killed and injured scores of civilians, including a child, to be investigated as a war crime following an in-depth investigation.

    At least 29 people, including women and children, were killed as a result of Iranian attacks in Israel, according to the Israeli Health Ministry. In one of the deadliest incidents, four members of the same family – three women and one child – were killed by an Iranian missile that hit the Palestinian town of Tamra in northern Israel on 14 June.  

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Zhejiang Jingkun Art Center (Kun Opera Troupe) to perform classic Kunqu plays and excerpts in Hong Kong in August (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    The Chinese Culture Festival (CCF) 2025, organised by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD), has invited Zhejiang Jingkun Art Center (Kun Opera Troupe) to present timeless masterpieces in Hong Kong in August, including their signature classic “Fifteen Strings of Cash”, the light-hearted comedy “The Lioness Roars”, and selected opera excerpts showcasing both civil and martial arts. The performances will feature acclaimed artists from the troupe’s Wan and Dai generations, demonstrating the enduring cultural vitality of Kunqu opera through generations of artistic heritage. This programme is also one of the programmes of the 13th Chinese Opera Festival (COF).

    　　Kunqu opera gained popularity in the Kunshan area of Suzhou during the Yuan and Ming periods. It has been described as “the mother of Chinese operas”, and was listed by UNESCO as one of the “Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity” in 2001. It is renowned for its elegant libretti commended for literary merit and delicate dance movements.

    　　Details of the three performances are as follows:

    “Fifteen Strings of Cash”
    ———————————————————
    Date and time: August 15 (Friday), 7.30pm

    　　Departing from Kunqu opera’s typical themes of scholar-beauty romance, “Fifteen Strings of Cash” recounts a mysterious murder case triggered by 15 strings of copper coins. This gripping tale follows Judge Kuang Zhong, who overturns a wrongful conviction and uncovers the true culprit, a cunning trickster named Lou Ashu (Lou the Rat). The excerpt “An Investigation in Disguise” features a masterful interplay between the laosheng (old male) and the chou (comic) roles, representing the pinnacle of operatic artistry. This play was first performed by the troupe’s Chuan-generation artists Zhou Chuanying and Wang Chuansong, and has been passed down through five generations over 70 years. The upcoming performance features Bao Chen and Tian Yang of the Wan generation in the lead, who uphold the legacy with this timeless classic.

    “The Lioness Roars”
    ———————————————————
    Date and time: August 16 (Saturday), 7.30pm

    　　As one of the rare light comedies in Kunqu opera, “The Lioness Roars” retains the elegance of Kunqu’s lyrical singing while infusing the scholar-beauty romance with a touch of mundane charm, making it a staple of the Kunqu repertoire. The play follows the story of Chen Jichang, a talented scholar who appears timid but deeply devoted to his wife Madam Liu (the Lioness of Hedong). She is portrayed as dominating and prideful, but never to the extent of being objectionable. Chen’s friend Su Dongpo tries to mediate but only adds fuel to their quarrels. Through the couple’s everyday squabbles, the play highlights the importance of family harmony. The play is one of the signature works of Kunqu master Wang Shiyu. Now, the troupe’s star duo Zeng Jie and Hu Ping of the Wan generation take on the roles of this quarrelsome yet loving couple, promising a performance of exceptional artistry.

    Traditional Opera Excerpts
    ———————————————————
    Date and time: August 17 (Sunday), 2.30pm

    　　The finale will present five opera excerpts drawn from classic masterpieces of Kunqu opera featuring “The Celestial Place” from “The Dream of Nanke” (one of Tang Xianzu’s “The Four Dreams at Linchuan” of Ming dynasty); “Cancelling the Birthday Celebrations” from the zaju play “The Pavilion of Chanting in the Wind” of Qing dynasty; “Rendezvous at the Pavilion” from the chuanqi “Red Pear Blossom” of Ming dynasty; “Entrusting His Son” from “The Beauty Washing Silk by the River”, the earliest chuanqi in Kunqu; and the spectacular martial piece “Fighting on the Water” from “Leifeng Pagoda”. This programme combines both civil and martial pieces, with the troupe’s outstanding actors demonstrating their exceptional artistry, which makes the performance a must-see for opera enthusiasts.

    　　Zhejiang Jingkun Art Center (Kun Opera Troupe) was established in 2019 through the merger of Zhejiang Kunqu Opera Troupe and Zhejiang Peking Opera Troupe. The Zhejiang Kunqu Opera Troupe, founded in 1956, brought Kunqu opera back into the national spotlight when it adapted the traditional play “Dream of Two Bears” into “Fifteen Strings of Cash”. This production became a landmark in Chinese opera reform, with People’s Daily publishing an editorial, hailing it as “a single play that revived an entire genre”. The success spurred the establishment of Kunqu troupes across China. Over the years, the troupe has nurtured outstanding talents, maintaining a lineage of six generations of performers, namely Chuan, Shi, Sheng, Xiu, Wan and Dai. It has also produced numerous award-winning works, earning widespread recognition.

    　　The three performances will be held at the Auditorium of Ko Shan Theatre New Wing. Lyrics and dialogue are with Chinese and English surtitles. Tickets priced at $250, $350 and $450 are now available at URBTIX (www.urbtix.hk). For telephone bookings, please call 3166 1288. Group booking discounts and package booking discounts are available for purchasing selected CCF stage programmes, the “Chinese Opera Film Shows” of the COF 2025 and the “Legacy and Vision: Conversations with Chinese Cultural Masters” lecture. For programme enquiries and concessionary schemes, please call 2268 7325 or visit www.ccf.gov.hk/en/programme/zhejiang-jingkun-art-center-kun-opera-troupe.

    　　The programme will also feature two Kunqu opera masterclasses (in Putonghua), with actors Hu Ping and Zeng Jie to share the crafting of Dan (female) roles and Sheng (male) roles in Kunqu respectively. The two sessions will be held at 2pm and 4pm on August 14 (Thursday) at AC2, Level 4, Administration Building, Hong Kong Cultural Centre. In addition, a meet-the-artists session entitled “Six Generations of Kunqu Performers: The Sustaining Growth of the Zhejiang Kunqu Opera Troupe” (in Putonghua and Cantonese) will be held at 7.30pm on the same day at the same venue. The speakers include Gu Jiong, Bao Chen, Zeng Jie, Hu Ping and Tian Yang, while Chinese opera researcher Chan Chun-miu will be the moderator. Additionally, a demonstration talk entitled “Kunqu Classics as a Living Tradition” (in Putonghua) will be held at 5pm on August 18 (Monday) at the Theatre, Block I, Jao Tsung-I Academy. The speakers include actors Wu Xinyi and Wang Hengtao. Admission is free. Since the quotas for online registration are full, those who are interested may wait at the venue’s entrance for a standby quota on the day of the session. Any unclaimed spots will be released 10 minutes after the session begins on a first-come, first-served basis.

    　　The CCF, presented by the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau and organised by the Chinese Culture Promotion Office under the LCSD, aims to promote Chinese culture and enhance the public’s national identity and cultural confidence. It also aims to attract top-notch artists and arts groups from the Mainland and other parts of the world for exchanges in Chinese arts and culture. The CCF 2025 is held from June to September. Through different performing arts programmes in various forms and related extension activities, including selected programmes of the COF, “Tan Dun WE-Festival”, film screenings, exhibitions, as well as community and school activities and more, the festival provides members of the public and visitors with more opportunities to enjoy distinctive programmes that showcase fine traditional Chinese culture, thereby facilitating patriotic education and contributing to the inheritance, transformation and development of traditional Chinese culture in Hong Kong. For more information about programmes and activities of the CCF 2025, please visit www.ccf.gov.hk.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Bitget’s July Proof-of-Reserves Report Shows 45% Increase in User Holdings for Bitcoin (BTC)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VICTORIA, Seychelles, July 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget, the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company, has released its latest Proof-of-Reserves (PoR) data reveals a sharp increase in user-held Bitcoin, with BTC balances surging over 45% month-on-month in July. This marks the strongest growth across all major assets tracked on the platform.

    According to the PoR public figures published, BTC held by users grew from 6,594 BTC in June to 9,531 BTC in July. USDT holdings also experienced a notable increase of 21%, climbing from approximately 1.61 billion to nearly 1.95 billion. ETH balances rose by 31% month-on-month, from 148,754 ETH to 195,466 ETH, while USDC holdings grew by 14%.

    The substantial surge in user asset holdings follows ongoing efforts across the industry to promote transparent reserve practices. Bitget continues to publish real-time reserve data via Merkle Tree infrastructure and open-source verification tools. As of July 23, the platform maintains a reserve ratio of over 200% across major assets, double the industry benchmark of 100%.

    “This increase in on-platform user assets, especially Bitcoin, shows a bit of the broader trend in user behavior, where traders and institutions increasingly may favor exchanges that allow independent asset verification,” said Gracy Chen, CEO at Bitget. “Our priority will always be to keep maintaining Bitget as one of the largest most secure platforms for crypto trading,” she added.

    The POR growth in July also corresponds with improved market sentiment and heightened institutional interest in digital assets, particularly following the recent price stabilization of Bitcoin above the $110,000 threshold.

    Bitget’s PoR methodology includes monthly snapshots and daily updates of asset balances, matched against liabilities through publicly auditable cryptographic proofs. The platform’s reserve transparency continues to be a key differentiator as global regulators intensify demands for accountability from centralized exchanges.

    For July, all reserve figures exceed the 100% mark across BTC, ETH, USDT, and USDC, and the exchange remains one of the few top-tier platforms to continuously publish real-time snapshots for user review. This consistent transparency is increasingly valued by both retail and institutional users seeking safeguards against mismanagement or opaque balance sheet practices.

    To know more about Proof of Reserves, please 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 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.

    Aligned with its global impact strategy, Bitget has joined hands with UNICEF to support blockchain education for 1.1 million people by 2027. In the world of motorsports, Bitget is the exclusive cryptocurrency exchange partner of MotoGP™, one of the world’s most thrilling championships.

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

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

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

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ab79b77e-18ca-440d-b88b-dd1a69aec32e

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Craig and Kelly have won a wedding!

    Source: City of Coventry

    Craig Critchley and Kelly Baylis are getting ready to walk down the aisle in style on Valentine’s Day, after being chosen as winners of the Win a Wedding competition run by the City Council and Go CV.

    There were dozens of entries, and judges had a tough time reading through all the incredible stories before finally selecting Craig and Kelly as winners.

    In fact – both of them had sent in applications in the hope of being selected for the great prize, which is worth over £5,000.

    It includes a marriage ceremony hosted in the Black Prince Room at Cheylesmore Manor House (Coventry Register Office), a wedding reception venue at Drapers’ Hall including buffet, dining set-up and service staff, plus overnight accommodation in a Junior Suite at the Telegraph Hotel with breakfast.

    In submitting her entry, Kelly told how the couple had first met as 13-year-olds 37 years ago. 

    She said: “We’re both 50 this year and never got the chance to get married. Craig actually proposed to me on February 14th many years ago, but then life got turned upside down.

    “We started saving for our wedding and we were trying to start a family, but things didn’t quite go as we planned.

    “At 25 weeks our little girl was born weighing only 1lb 6oz and we named her Harriet. She was tiny and so sick. She fought so hard and had numerous surgeries and other procedures. It was the hardest time of our lives but we never gave up hope.

    “Craig was amazing. He was my rock. Finally, Harriet began to improve and after months we got to bring her home. We want to marry so much and to have our beautiful 12-year-old daughter there as our flower girl on our engagement anniversary would be so special.”

    In Craig’s entry, he said: ““Our journey has been so tough, filled with heartache, sadness and pure elation. We were told Harriet would not make it, but she defied all odds and is our little miracle. “So to complete our dream and to get married when we are 50 and on the anniversary of my proposal would be something very special indeed.”

    On hearing they had won the prize, they said: “We couldn’t believe it, the best surprise you could ever imagine. It means the world to us that our love story will come full circle, a wedding on Valentine’s Day, the same day we got engaged! Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.”

    The lucky winners will also have flower bouquets provided by Isabel’s Flower Studio, photographs by UR Rosa Photography, precious moments to share on social media by Electric Joy Moments Content Creator and Brody Swain as Wedding Toastmaster at the ceremony and reception.

    People had to enter on the Go CV website, saying in no more than 300 words why they deserved to win. They also had to be a Coventry resident and hold a fully validated Go CV card.

    Councillor Kamran Caan, Cabinet Member, Public Health, Sport and Wellbeing, said: “It really is a fantastic prize, and I am delighted for Kelly and Craig to have their dream come true after everything they have been through.

    “Thank you to everyone who entered – there were some very moving and inspiring stories – and congratulations to our winning couple. I know they will have a fantastic day at some truly wonderful venues, and with the help of some very talented local businesses.”

    To learn more about Go CV and how you could get some great discounts and enter competitions in the future, visit go-cv.co.uk

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI China: Poland edge China to reach Women’s VNL semifinals

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

    Host Poland battled past China in a thrilling five-set quarterfinal, winning 17-25, 25-20, 19-25, 25-19, 15-12 in the FIVB Women’s Volleyball Nations League (VNL) on Wednesday evening in Lodz to secure a spot in the semifinals.

    Opposite hitter Magdalena Stysiak led the Polish side with 25 points, including 22 kills and three blocks. Outside hitter Martyna Czyrnianska added 16 points. For China, outside hitter Wu Mengjie delivered an impressive performance with a match-high 25 points, while Zhuang Yushan added 20.

    Coming off a 3-1 victory over China in a friendly on Saturday, Poland entered the match as slight favorites. However, it was China who came out strong in the opening set, fueled by Wu’s sharp attacks. She scored 10 points in the set, helping China establish a 19-14 lead before closing it out 25-17.

    China continued their momentum early in the second set, taking a 5-2 advantage after a spike from Chen Houyu. But Poland rallied back, drawing level at 14-14 thanks to a powerful attack from Martyna Lukasik. Momentum shifted in favor of the hosts as Czyrnianska registered a key block and Stysiak added timely offense to push Poland ahead. Lukasik sealed the set with back-to-back spikes, giving Poland a 25-20 win.

    In the third set, China capitalized on a string of unforced errors from Poland to race ahead 13-5. Maintaining their advantage throughout, China regained the lead in sets with a 25-19 win.

    The fourth set saw Poland respond with renewed energy. Paulina Damaske’s spike and service ace helped the home team build an 18-12 cushion. Although China fought back to narrow the gap to 21-19, Poland surged with four straight points to take the set 25-19, forcing a decider.

    In the tiebreak, Poland met the expectations of their home crowd at Atlas Arena. A block from Stysiak and another strong finish from Damaske gave them a 7-4 lead. Though China closed the deficit to 10-9 after a Stysiak error, Damaske delivered a key solo block to make it 13-10 and later sealed the match with a powerful spike, clinching the final set 15-12.

    “It was a tough challenge. We struggled during the match, so we’re very happy with the victory,” said Polish setter Alicja Grabka in a post-match interview with Polsat TV. “We overcame a difficult situation as we were behind. For me, playing in that kind of match was a dream come true. I’m very proud I could help the team.”

    Earlier in the day, Italy advanced to the semifinals after sweeping the United States 3-0 (25-22, 25-21, 28-26). Opposite spiker Paola Egonu starred with a match-high 20 points, while Avery Skinner led the Americans with 11.

    The remaining quarterfinal matchups will take place on Thursday, with Japan facing Turkiye and Brazil taking on Germany.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Media Statement: Transgender sports policy reflects public opinion

    Source: Family First

    Today’s superb (and well overdue) policy change by Sport New Zealand regarding biological males in women’s sports simply reflects public opinion.

    A recent Curia Market Research poll found that only 13% of New Zealanders thought that boys who identify as girls should be able to play in a girls team. 68% said they shouldn’t, and 19% were unsure.

    What is most interesting is that a similar poll in 2018 by the same polling company found that support and opposition was locked at 39% each. Opposition has grown markedly over the last five years to the unfairness and safety concerns around boys competing against girls.

    Contrary to the narrative, ‘𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬 𝐩𝐞𝐨𝐩𝐥𝐞’ 𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐲 𝐬𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭. 𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐲 𝐣𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐧 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐭𝐞𝐚𝐦 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐢𝐫 𝐛𝐢𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐬𝐞𝐱. The other option is to create a new mixed category.

    But females deserve to play in their own league. The government had dropped the ball on this by not sending clear guidelines to sporting groups.

    𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐧𝐞𝐰 𝐩𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐲 𝐢𝐬 𝐚 𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐛𝐢𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐲, 𝐟𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬, 𝐰𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧 & 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐨𝐧 𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐞.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HK fencer bags gold medal

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Culture, Sports & Tourism Rosanna Law today congratulated Hong Kong’s Ryan Choi on winning a gold medal in the Men’s Foil Individual event at the 2025 Fencing World Championships.

     

    Miss Law lauded the 27-year-old foil fencer for delivering an impressive performance in the competition, demonstrating Hong Kong athletes’ charm and perseverance.

     

    “We are thrilled by his achievement in winning Hong Kong’s first ever gold medal in the Fencing World Championships.

     

    “I hope the Hong Kong China fencing team will continue to strive for excellence. I have faith in them to perform spectacularly again in the 15th National Games to be held in November.”

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Disease ripping through Gaza as Israel continues to deliberately block aid: Oxfam

    Source: Oxfam –

    Deadly diseases are now ripping through Gaza even as millions of dollars’ worth of humanitarian aid piles up in warehouses across the region, says Oxfam. 

    Water-borne diseases that are both preventable and readily treatable have increased by almost 150% inside Gaza over the past three months as Israel continues to deliberately block aid. 

    Available multi-agency health data shows that the numbers of Palestinians presenting to health facilities with acute watery diarrhea have increased by 150 per cent, bloody diarrhea by 302 per cent, and acute jaundice cases by 101 per cent. 

    Even these figures will be grossly under-reported because most of the two million people trapped by Israel’s continuing siege have little access to the few healthcare facilities that have managed to keep operating. 

    This surge of disease can quickly turn deadly especially as Palestinians living in Gaza have been deprived of enough food, water, shelter, and adequate healthcare for over 21 months.   Their community and family networks have been shattered, and people made more vulnerable by repeated forced mass displacements and continuing violence. 

    Israel has put Gaza under a near total blockade since March 2 of this year stopping all but a trickle of aid. There are no longer any humanitarian aid reserves held by international agencies inside of Gaza. 

    As a result, international humanitarian donors and agencies have been forced to accumulate more than 420,000 pallets of aid that now sit in limbo inside warehouses across the regions. This covers an area of around 75 hectares, or enough to cover 101 football fields. 

    “There is a grim and deliberate inevitability as to what Israel has created in Gaza. Each day that its siege continues and it denies aid, starvation becomes increasingly widespread and human deaths from entirely preventable diseases becomes an absolute certainty.” 

    Bushra Khalidi, Policy Lead

    Oxfam in the Occupied Palestinian Territory and Israel

    This aid includes shelters, food and supplements to combat malnutrition, and water equipment, sanitation items and medicines that would be vital to tackle diseases and   

    Oxfam alone has over 110,000 items of humanitarian aid in one warehouse including water bladders and tanks, hygiene, dignity and water testing kits, food parcels, soap, nappies, pipes and latrine slabs. 

    Oxfam is waiting for clearances and permissions to enter, however the Israeli authorities have recently denied water and sanitation items and food parcels. 

    Bushra Khalidi, Oxfam in the Occupied Palestinian Territory and Israel policy lead, said that time is running out to prevent an epidemic across Gaza and the mass death that would inevitably result. 

    “The conditions that Palestinians in Gaza are being forced to endure have created a petri dish for disease. These are diseases that thrive where people lack water – clean or otherwise – and are stuck in over-crowded unsanitary environments with almost no food,” Khalidi said.  

    “There is a grim and deliberate inevitability as to what Israel has created in Gaza. Each day that its siege continues and it denies aid, starvation becomes increasingly widespread and human deaths from entirely preventable diseases becomes an absolute certainty.” 

    “As Gaza bakes in the summer sun and the hottest month of the year looms, it is increasingly urgent that Israel’s siege must end. It is shameful Israel has been allowed to besiege Gaza and create this catastrophe. Nothing other than complete access to Gaza to deliver aid at scale can alleviate the conditions that people have been forced to live in.” 

    “Each day we wait for a ceasefire, more lives are lost through violence, hunger and disease. Palestinians in Gaza cannot wait a day longer for this hell to end. There must be a full and complete ceasefire, and all required aid must be able to enter via all crossings into Gaza so that Palestinians can finally begin to recover and rebuild.” 

    MIL OSI NGO –