NewzIntel.com

Category: Tourism

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Official fleet licences to be issued

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Transport Department today announced today that official Taxi Fleet Licences will be issued to all five taxi fleets in July.

    The issuance of the licences means the fleets can build confidence with the public and marks an important step in reforming the taxi trade, the department added. 

    The five operators have been conducting trial operations after being granted provisional Taxi Fleet Licences in July last year. They have provided nearly 120,000 trips to date.

    Stressing that public feedback on the taxi fleets has been positive, the Transport Department said that, after careful consideration, it had decided to adopt a flexible licensing approach in order to benefit the public as soon as possible in terms of service provision. It added that that more and more passengers will come to know and use taxi fleet service upon their official launch. 

    The department elaborated that this in turn will provide fleet drivers with more stable income, thereby attracting more taxi drivers to join the fleets.

    After the licences are issued, the five fleets will be able to use about 80 designated taxi fleet stopping places in 13 locations to pick up passengers on pre-booked trips. The locations include the airport, certain cross-boundary control points and various tourist hotspots.

    Since being issued with their provisional licences, the five operators have been procuring new vehicles, carrying out modifications, installing in-vehicle safety devices, setting up electronic payment systems, developing and testing online hailing applications and training drivers.

    Additionally, they have implemented various measures to recruit taxi owners and drivers, such as participating in thematic job fairs, hosting fleet introduction sessions and recruitment events, and organising activities to showcase new taxi models.

    The Transport Department will closely monitor the performances of the fleets to ensure their services meet public expectations.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HKSAR Government sets up Hong Kong Cross-boundary Public Services self-service kiosk and “iAM Smart” self-registration kiosk in Jiangmen (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region is collaborating with Guangdong Province to promote the Cross-boundary Public Services initiative. The Digital Policy Office (DPO) announced today (June 27) the setting up of a Hong Kong Cross-boundary Public Services self-service kiosk in Jiangmen, enabling residents and enterprises in Mainland cities of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) to access public services of Hong Kong without the need to travel to Hong Kong in person.
     
         Following installation of the self-service kiosks earlier in Guangzhou, Qianhai and Futian in Shenzhen, Zhuhai, Foshan, Huizhou, Dongguan and Zhongshan, the Cross-boundary Public Services self-service kiosk in Jiangmen also provides over 70 public services from 12 government bureaux and departments as well as related organisations, encompassing several areas commonly used by enterprises and the public, including taxation, company registration, property and vehicle enquiry and registration, application for personal identification documents and entry of talent, welfare and education, healthcare, immigration clearance, urgent assistance as well as culture and tourism. Members of the public can use the self-service kiosks to perform data entry, document scanning and result printing to enjoy one-stop access when applying for various public services.
     
         Starting today, the public can use the Hong Kong Cross-boundary Public Services self-service kiosk located on 4/F, Jiangmen Government Service Center to access various public services of Hong Kong. The opening hours of the kiosk in the centre are 8.30am to noon and 2.30pm to 5.30pm, Monday to Friday (except public holidays on the Mainland).
     
         An “iAM Smart” self-registration kiosk is also set up at the Jiangmen location to enable Hong Kong residents working and living on the Mainland to register for “iAM Smart+” and directly use the “iAM Smart” mobile app to access over 1,100 online services provided by the Government and public and private organisations, as well as the government e-Forms such as renewal of vehicle licences, applications for International Driving Permits and eHealth services, etc.
     
         The DPO will continue to discuss with the Guangdong Provincial Administration of Government Service and Data to set up self-service and self-registration kiosks in Zhaoqing as the next step to fully cover the nine Mainland cities of the GBA to cope with the demands of residents and enterprises in the GBA for Hong Kong public services.
     
         For details, please visit the Hong Kong Cross-boundary Public Services website at www.crossboundaryservices.gov.hk/en/home/index.html and the “iAM Smart” thematic website at www.iamsmart.gov.hk/en/reg.html.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by FS at Opening Ceremony of Extravaganza! When Brazil Meets Hong Kong (English only)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Speech by FS at Opening Ceremony of Extravaganza! When Brazil Meets Hong Kong (English only) 
         Good morning.
     
         It is a great pleasure to join you today at this fascinating celebration: Extravaganza! When Brazil Meets Hong Kong. With the joyful rhythms of samba echoing along Victoria Harbour, this event brings a refreshing burst of Brazilian spirit to the heart of our city.
     
         I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Stefan for bringing this world-renowned carnival to Hong Kong for the first time. My thanks also go to the talented Brazilian performers who have travelled across the globe to be here, and to our colleagues in the Government, the Hong Kong Tourism Board, and all supporting partners for your good work in making this festival a reality.
     
         Hong Kong is a city of contrasts and connections – where East meets West, tradition meets innovation, and urban energy coexists with nature. Our cultural offerings continue to grow. Consider the Hong Kong Palace Museum, which showcases the richness of Chinese heritage, or M+, which has quickly become a landmark for contemporary visual art in Asia. Or the stunning hiking trails which are just minutes away from the city. 
         To those visiting us – a very warm welcome. Seeing Hong Kong firsthand is the best way to understand that our city is as open, diverse, vibrant and international as ever.
     
         I’m glad that this festival has brought energy and joy to communities across the city, from school visits to lively street performances at our most iconic attractions. You are helping to enrich our cultural landscape and deepen cross-cultural connections.
     
         Looking ahead, we are committed to strengthening Hong Kong’s role as Asia’s events capital. With the new Kai Tak Sports Park, a world-class infrastructure, we will be hosting a wide range of international events. More than concerts and rugby, we are welcoming a number of top-class football matches there. I certainly hope we can host the Brazilian national football team sometime soon.
     
         Of course, beyond that, it requires imagination, innovation and inspiration to make our city even more attractive to tourists and residents. We need more events like this one, and more joint efforts of the business community, including the tourism, catering and retail sectors to create new experiences for consumers and visitors.
     
         Ladies and gentlemen, I wish you all a joyful and memorable Extravaganza. May this celebration of culture and creativity continue to build lasting bonds between Hong Kong and Brazil, Brazil and Hong Kong.
     
         Thank you very much.
    Issued at HKT 12:20

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Official Taxi Fleet Licences to be issued in July to offer quality taxi services to public (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The Transport Department (TD) said today (June 27) that official Taxi Fleet Licences are scheduled to be issued to all five taxi fleets in July to enable the fleets to commence services as soon as possible and showcase the quality services provided by the taxi fleets, such that it can build up public confidence in taxi services and mark an important step to enhance service quality and reform the taxi trade.

    A spokesman for the TD said, “The TD issued provisional grants of the Taxi Fleet Licence to five selected operators in end-July 2024. All five fleets have now commenced trial operations, and have provided a total of nearly 120,000 trips to date. The public’s feedback on the taxi fleet services has been positive. We have, after careful consideration, decided to adopt a flexible licensing approach to provide the public with an early opportunity to experience high-quality taxi fleet services. Taxi fleets are a new mode of operation. Upon the official launch of the fleets, we believe that through a series of promotions, positive feedback from passengers, benefits for fleet drivers, and the gradual evolvement of the trade’s image, more passengers will come to know and use the taxi fleet services. This will, in turn, provide fleet drivers with a more favourable and stable income, which will help attract more taxi drivers to join the fleets and gradually enhance the fleets’ capacity.”

    The spokesman continued that issuing official taxi fleet licenses enables the TD to effectively oversee the operations and services of the fleets in accordance with licence conditions and requirements, thereby achieving the objective of enhancing and ensuring service quality through the introduction of the taxi fleet regime.

    After obtaining the licences, all five fleet operators can officially use about 80 designated taxi fleet stopping places across 13 locations, such as the airport, certain cross-boundary control points and other tourist hotspots to pick up passengers with pre-booked trips. Signage, information plates, and display panels will be erected at these locations. The TD will also distribute leaflets and display posters featuring QR codes for each taxi fleet’s online hailing service to facilitate reservations by the public and tourists. The Government will also promote the taxi fleet services to the public and tourists through various channels, including the TD’s HKeMobility mobile application, and the networks of the Hong Kong Tourism Board, the Airport Authority, and the Kai Tak Cruise Terminal.

    Since July last year, the five selected operators have been conducting gearing-up work with great endeavour, including procuring new vehicles and carrying out modifications, installing in-vehicle safety devices, setting up electronic payment systems, developing and testing online hailing applications and providing training to drivers. Each fleet has also implemented different measures to recruit taxi owners and drivers, such as participating in a one-stop taxi fleet drivers thematic job fair, hosting fleet introduction sessions and recruitment events, organising activities to showcase the new taxi models and providing new fleet management approaches to taxi owners, etc.

    The TD has been holding regular meetings with the fleets to actively promote and assist their gearing-up work, while co-ordinating and providing support based on their needs during the preparatory stage. For example, in response to the need of various operators to acquire new models of vehicles for use as fleet taxis, the TD has, on the premise of ensuring road safety, streamlined procedures by introducing batch applications and vehicle examinations, and providing facilitating measures in respect of the vehicle examination arrangements. The TD also opened designated stopping places within the prohibited zones of the two control points on May 30 to facilitate the fleets under trial operation in picking up passengers with pre-booked trips.

    After issuing the official Taxi Fleet Licences, the TD will continue to urge fleet operators to proactively recruit taxi owners and drivers in order to achieve the committed fleet size. The TD will also closely monitor the service performances of the fleets to ensure that the service quality meets the public’s aspirations.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – Consumer rights: Deal on out-of-court dispute resolution rules

    Source: European Parliament

    Thursday’s agreement between Parliament and Council aims to increase consumer awareness and encourage greater business participation in out-of-court dispute solutions.

    Alternative dispute resolution (ADR) involves impartial, out-of-court bodies, such as conciliators, mediators, arbitrators, the ombudsmen and complaints boards, helping consumers and companies resolve issues amicably, in a fair and low-cost manner.

    The agreed rules aim to modernise the existing ADR rules for the digital economy, making it easier to resolve cross-border disputes and streamlining procedures for both consumers and businesses.

    Scope and third-country traders

    The agreed rules clarify the scope of the ADR framework to consumer rights disputes stemming from a contract, including issues that occur before the contract (e.g. advertising and information provision) and after it ends (e.g. use of digital content).

    Considering that 2 out of 5 online transactions made by EU consumers are with traders established in third countries, the agreement allows for such traders to participate in ADR procedures as well.

    Boosting participation and ensuring trader accountability

    Unless specific EU law or national legislation imposes trader participation in out-of-court dispute resolution, businesses will continue to be free to decide whether to participate in alternative dispute resolution or not. To boost trader and consumer participation, member states should put in place measures encouraging out-of-court settlements, for example through information campaigns, certificates or financial incentives. In doing so, they should pay particular attention to sectors with a high number of consumer complaints, especially the transport and tourism sectors, including air passenger rights.

    The agreed rules introduce a duty for traders to respond whether they intend to engage in the proposed procedure when a consumer requests ADR intervention. Negotiators agreed that this period should not exceed 20 working days (30 in complex cases). A lack of a response would be treated as a refusal, allowing cases to be closed.

    Streamlining and user-friendly information

    The agreed measures allow ADR entities to bundle similar cases against the same trader together (with consumer consent), leading to faster and more coherent procedures.

    They must maintain websites where consumers can easily find information on such procedures, as well as submit and track their complaints online.

    Quote

    Parliament’s rapporteur Laura Ballarín Cereza (S&D, ES) said: “The revision of the ADR directive represents a significant step forward for consumer rights. Under the new agreement, member states are expected to put in place incentive measures to encourage the participation of both consumers and traders in alternative dispute resolution procedures, especially in sectors that have been the subject of repeated consumer complaints —such as airline carriers. The revised directive also extends the scope to third-country traders, given the current importance of e-commerce.”

    Background

    If a consumer has a problem with a product or service that they bought, for example if a trader refuses to repair a product or issue a refund, they have the option to settle the dispute out of court using an alternative dispute resolution procedure, a low-cost and simple alternative to court procedures. Each year, approximately 300 000 eligible disputes between consumers and traders are handled by ADR entities, with resolution rates ranging from 17 % to 100 % across the EU. Despite this, ADR uptake remains low, due in part to low consumer awareness, low trader engagement, coverage gaps, high costs and complex procedures in some member states.

    Next steps

    Parliament and the Council have concluded an “early second reading agreement”. The Council is expected to adopt this agreement formally, after which Parliament will vote to endorse it in plenary, at second reading.

    The directive will enter into force 20 days after its publication in the EU Official Journal. The provisions will start to apply after 32 months.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s Zhejiang debuts AI-powered tourism platform for foreign visitors

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

    China’s Zhejiang debuts AI-powered tourism platform for foreign visitors

    Xinhua | June 27, 2025

    Tourists enjoy flowers at a park in Jiaxing, east China’s Zhejiang Province, June 8, 2025. (Photo by Jin Peng/Xinhua)

    East China’s Zhejiang Province launched its AI-driven inbound tourism service platform “Zhejiang Travel” on Thursday in Hangzhou, the provincial capital.

    The platform, designed to streamline travel for international tourists, offers real-time multilingual assistance and personalized itinerary planning.

    “I simply asked in Korean for a ‘3-day, 2-night Hangzhou trip’ and instantly received a detailed plan, even down to daily transportation cost,” said a tourist from the Republic of Korea.

    Developed by the Zhejiang Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism, the platform utilizes Alibaba Qwen and DeepSeek large-language models, integrating high-quality local cultural and tourism data.

    It combines four specialized AI agents: a scenic guide, hotel consultant, budget planner, and neighborhood assistant to provide comprehensive support.

    “Zhejiang Travel” features the “Easy GO” service code — a unified QR solution for payment, attraction entry, accommodation, and public transport. Additional functions include instant translation, AI travel photography, e-wallets, ride-hailing, and museum audio guides.

    The service is accessible via WeChat, Alipay mini-programs, and H5 webpages. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Eurasian Goods and Trade Expo 2025 Creates New Platform for Xinjiang’s Industrial Modernization

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    BEIJING, June 27 (Xinhua) — The 2025 Eurasian Commodity and Trade Expo is becoming a key arena for attracting investment in Xinjiang cities and counties thanks to its strong ability to concentrate resources, information and business connections.

    The event opened on Thursday in Urumqi, capital of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, northwest China, bringing together more than 2,800 enterprises and representatives from 50 countries and regions.

    According to local newspaper Xinjiang Daily, Urumqi city authorities will hold a presentation titled “Investing in Xinjiang Together” at the exhibition, where representatives from Xinjiang districts and counties will deliver reports revealing the region’s advantages and resource potential, which will be a sincere message to global investors.

    The fruitful results of the past fairs confirm their platform value: the cumulative contract volume of the previous four sessions has exceeded 1 trillion yuan, with 360 projects worth 521.037 billion yuan signed in 2023 alone, contributing to the improvement of the quality and level of Xinjiang’s industrial upgrading.

    The Xinjiang Huineng coal comprehensive utilization project, which was attracted by Hami City to participate in the 2023 Expo with a total investment of 8.5 billion yuan, has completed the groundwork and entered the main equipment installation phase. Once put into operation, the project will play a key role in developing the processing chain of Hami’s tar-rich low-grade coal, ensuring high-quality economic growth and strengthening national energy security.

    The projects signed at the 2023 Turpan Fair worth 51.718 billion yuan have become a powerful engine for upgrading and high-quality development, playing a decisive role in strengthening and expanding industrial chains.

    The new-type intelligent transportation system project for Heishan Coal Area signed between Xinjiang Energy and Chemical Co., Ltd. and Toxun County Government at the 2023 fair enabled Heishan Coal Mine to be awarded the status of a mid-level intelligent open-pit coal mine in 2024. Today, there are 106 unmanned coal trucks operating in conjunction with conventional vehicles, clearly demonstrating the transformation of traditional industries by new-quality productive forces.

    The 2025 Eurasian Goods and Trade Expo serves as a golden platform for showcasing capabilities, launching new products, analyzing markets, and establishing partnerships. It has become a strategic fulcrum for Xinjiang enterprises to integrate into the dual circulation of domestic and international markets.

    Xinjiang Western Regions Shenyou Culture and Art Co., Ltd. has won the regional market with its embroidered bag, which won the National Tourism Products Award, displayed at the fair. “We will introduce innovative products inspired by Xinjiang culture at this fair, such as a fashionable bag and a multifunctional collar pillow,” said Zhang Guocui, general manager, adding that this will give the tourism products a unique Xinjiang flavor. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Tour operators from China and Belarus are interested in cooperation in the cross-border tourism sector

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, June 27 (Xinhua) — Travel companies from northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region and Belarus are interested in cooperation in the cross-border tourism sector, the Urumqi Evening Newspaper reported.

    On Tuesday, a meeting of representatives of local tourism companies with colleagues from the Belarusian enterprise “CenterKurort” took place in Urumqi (the administrative center of XUAR). The parties discussed issues related to the development of products in the field of cross-border tourism.

    According to Dong Mengying, sales manager of the Xinqiang-based travel agency Meicheng Online, health and wellness tours in Belarus and Belarusian castles, including Mir, Nesvizh and others, are very attractive to Chinese travelers. Tour operators from both sides plan to jointly develop routes for Chinese tourists.

    Let us recall that in February this year, a Xinjiang delegation, which included representatives of 12 local travel agencies, took part in the presentation of China’s tourism opportunities in Minsk. Xinjiang’s unique geographical advantages, its rich tourism resources and convenient visa policy aroused great interest among Belarusian tour operators.

    “We and our Belarusian colleagues have preliminarily developed seven routes that connect the city of Xi’an, Xinjiang, Kazakhstan and Belarus,” said Wu Feng, chairman of the Xinjiang Association of Tour Operators.

    According to him, the Chinese tourism market is huge. The two sides should step up cooperation in product development and marketing to increase tourism flow. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Transformed NW China desert region emerges as travel hotspot

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

    In the blazing heat of June, tourists dash down sun-scorched dunes, ride camels on golden sands, and cool off in shimmering desert pools. Laughter, excitement and the hum of singing bowls fill the air.

    Tucked along the edge of the Tengger Desert in northwest China’s Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region is Shapotou, a national resort area where river, sand and stars converge.

    Once infamous due to encroaching desert dunes and deadly sandstorms, this remote region is now a vibrant symbol of ecological restoration and thriving desert tourism.

    In the past, desertification still threatened Shapotou’s very survival, as dunes advanced several meters annually — swallowing fields and homes.

    Shapotou first attracted serious attention with the construction of the Baotou-Lanzhou railway in 1958, which was China’s first desert railway. To protect it, national focus and efforts converged at Shapotou.

    Researchers and local residents worked together to develop and use a straw checkerboard technique to fight desertification. Along with tree planting and other endeavors, millions united to gradually stop the sand dunes from advancing. Over the course of several decades, the desert eventually retreated by 25 kilometers — a landmark victory in ecological restoration.

    With the settling of the desert sands, new opportunities emerged in this region. Former tourism official Tao Neng recalled that officials from Europe and the United States once came to study desertification control at Shapotou, while backpackers from the West were drawn to this area by the mystery of the Silk Road.

    Intrigued by their fascination, Tao studied English in Beijing to better understand the appeal. It was then that he realized why people loved the desert — its sunrises, sunsets, rainstorms and rainbows offer rare beauty, far removed from the concrete and pressures of city life.

    Though born in the city of Zhongwei in Ningxia, Tao first saw the desert turn pink after rain through this job, while also discovering its hidden oases and villages, and learning to embrace sandstorms as a unique life experience.

    To capture these impressions, he kept a notebook in which visitors from around the world could write about their desert journeys. Their reflections sparked ideas that helped lay the foundation for today’s nationally renowned Shapotou tourist area.

    Inspired by international desert tourism models, Shapotou introduced sandboarding, desert surfing and even zip-lining across the Yellow River. In 2007, it became a national 5A-level scenic area — drawing nearly 600,000 visitors that year.

    Recent years have seen a shift toward premium, immersive desert experiences. In 2020, the first phase of the Desert Star Hotel opened, offering luxury stargazing stays with rooms priced at up to 2,000 yuan (about 279 U.S. dollars) per night. Despite the cost, these rooms are often fully booked.

    To cater to younger travelers, the local government built a desert campsite featuring ensuite tents, music festivals and stargazing installations. According to the hotel’s general manager, these tent accommodations enjoyed an occupancy rate of nearly 90 percent last year, while the government’s investment has already been fully recovered.

    The booming tourism industry has brought real change to this area. Local data revealed that Zhongwei’s tourism employment level had risen from 40,000 in 2014 to 70,000 in 2024. Major brands now stage product launches in the dunes, while hit reality shows have chosen Shapotou as a backdrop.

    The transformation of Shapotou also reflects China’s national strategy of building an ecological civilization — which places green development at the heart of its modernization goals.

    Notably, as one of the countries most severely affected by desertification, China has launched large-scale ecological projects to combat land degradation, particularly in its northern and northwestern regions.

    Shapotou’s success is part of broader national efforts like the Three-North Shelterbelt Forest Program, a decades-long afforestation initiative launched in 1978. This massive project has mobilized millions of people to carry out reforestation, sand control and grassland restoration across vast stretches of northwest, north, and northeast China.

    By 2023, the program, the world’s largest of its kind, had completed 480 million mu (about 32 million hectares) of afforestation, rehabilitated 1.28 billion mu of degraded grassland, and treated 500 million mu of desertified land. As a result, forest coverage in the project area had increased from 5.05 percent in 1978 to 13.84 percent in 2023.

    As a pioneer of desert tourism in China, Shapotou is now developing more upscale desert vacation experiences. In 2024, the Tengol Desert Resort opened its doors, offering minimalist sand-toned villas modeled after ancient Silk Road camel towns. Backed by 200 million yuan in infrastructure investment, the resort runs on sustainable systems — no plastic bottles and no underground water extraction.

    Offering 105 rooms, it boasts a spa, bar, desert adventure experiences and gourmet meals, featuring Helan Mountain wine and local Tan sheep. All rooms were fully booked by February for this year’s May Day holiday — 75 percent by women seeking tranquility and quality travel.

    “We used to think of the desert as something to conquer,” said Zhang Ying, general manager of the hotel. “Now we’ve learned to live in harmony with it. Even as sandstorms rage outside, our guests can sip coffee and take in the view in complete comfort.” 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The final stage of selection of schoolchildren and students for the Great Arctic Expedition has begun

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The final stage of selection for the Great Arctic Expedition has begun. More than 40 finalists have gone to a five-day training camp in Karelia, where they will stay until July 4. Based on their results, the participants who will be part of the expedition to the Far North will be determined. This was reported by the press service of the capital’s Department of Education and Science.

    “Every year, thousands of Moscow schoolchildren and students apply to participate in the Great Arctic Expedition. This year, it is dedicated to the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Great Patriotic War. The journey will begin in late July – early August and will last about two weeks. 14 schoolchildren and college students will travel to the northernmost point of Eurasia – Cape Chelyuskin. The children will be divided into two groups: volunteer builders will be engaged in landscaping the territory of the memorial complex of pilots and winterers, and researchers will study the flora of the Laptev Sea coast. After the expedition, the participants will present their achievements at a large-scale scientific conference,” the department’s press service reported.

    In Karelia, six teams of seven people will work under the guidance of professional tourism instructors. Over the course of five days, young travelers will cover a route of about 60 kilometers. They will have to cook in field conditions, work with tourist equipment, set up tents and conduct scientific research. For example, participants will take photos of plants, mosses, birds and describe the terrain. Experts will evaluate the endurance, responsibility and ability to work in a team of each participant, and then name those who will join the expedition.

    To get to the final, candidates had to pass several tests. The first stage of the selection was the Arctic Dictation, where over five thousand contestants tested their knowledge of the geography, history, ecology and economic importance of the Far North. In the second stage, the participants were treated to the adventure game “Heroes of the Arctic”. More than 500 children completed tasks on six interactive platforms. Personal and team results were counted.

    “I am applying for the position of a volunteer builder in the expedition. All stages of the selection were very interesting. I especially liked the adventure game. I was very pleased that my friends agreed to help me and we did a great job with the tasks. I have high expectations from the final stage of the selection. I hope that this year I will be able to fit into the team. I have been a member of the “Travel Lab” for a year now. Here I was taught to be friends and work in a team, so I hope that the trip will be great,” said Sofia Taranenko, a student at the Ivan Fedorov Moscow Publishing and Printing College.

    The next stage was a professional skills competition, which was held in Sokolniki Park and the Moscow Educational Complex Zapad. Thus, in the volunteer builders’ competition, participants had to demonstrate their skills in painting metal, installing formwork and pouring concrete. In the chefs’ competition, candidates had to prepare certain dishes from the products given to them. The final was the research competition, in which candidates for the team of participants of the Great Arctic Expedition defended their scientific projects before the commission.

    The capital’s Department of Education and Science first organized the Great Arctic Expedition in 2018. In 2024, a group of schoolchildren went to Cape Lasinius, and a group of college students went to Cape Chelyuskin. The children skied in the footsteps of the expeditions of the early 20th-century Arctic explorer Eduard Toll and Soviet scientist Ivan Papanin, and also built a mobile station town on Cape Chelyuskin.

    Umka, melted snow and an ecological station: how the Great Arctic Expedition 2024 went

    The Arctic is not the only place on the globe that Moscow schoolchildren have visited. In the 2024/2025 academic year, 13 young city residents went to the Arctic for the first time.Moscow Youth Antarctic ExpeditionSchoolchildren conducted research on behalf of Russian research institutes, while college students monitored the health of the participants, were responsible for communications, prepared food, and looked after the mobile living module.

    About 80 thousand schoolchildren and college students are involved in tourism in the capital – every 20th student. They are united by the city project “The Route is Built”. Over the past year, the children have gone on almost 300 hikes around Russia and other countries. Among the destinations are Kazbek, Tien Shan, North Ossetia, Altai and Kamchatka.

    You can find out more about additional education in the capital in Telegram channels “Moscow education” And“Moscow Center for Educational Practices”.

    Supplementary education programs develop creative and critical thinking in schoolchildren and develop skills that will be useful to them in their future profession. Events held within the framework of supplementary education contribute to the project “All the best for children” of the national project “Youth and Children”.

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

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

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    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/155897073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New Caledonian delegates to learn about NZ economy

    Source: New Zealand Government

    A New Caledonian delegation will tour New Zealand next week to learn about aspects of our economic development, Foreign Minister Winston Peters says.
     “As New Caledonia seeks to recover economically from a challenging period in its history, New Zealand is pleased to be sharing our own lessons and experiences. 
     “When visiting New Caledonia twice in the past year, we heard from businesses, including Kanak entrepreneurs, significant interest in New Zealand’s economic development – including the Māori economy.
     “We are therefore delighted to welcome this high-level delegation, which will be introduced to all aspects of our economic development – including the Māori economy and how Māori operate in key sectors like youth training, economic development, and technology.
     “This study tour is an important element of New Zealand’s commitment to New Caledonia’s development through ongoing and constructive exchanges.”
     The programme includes a meeting with Māori policymakers and engagement with a range of iwi on areas such as youth, tourism, services and private sector partnerships.
     The study tour follows Mr Peters’ visits over the last six months to Paris, Nice and Nouméa, where he has met France’s President Emmanuel Macron, Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot, and Overseas Territories Minister Manuel Valls, as well as the new President of the Government of New Caledonia, Alcide Ponga. 
    The 20-person study tour includes visits to Wellington, Hamilton, Tauranga, and Auckland.
    “We have a shared interest in promoting economic development, good governance and regional security,” Mr Peters says. 
     The delegation arrives in New Zealand on Sunday 29 June, will meet Mr Peters on Friday 4 July, before returning to Nouméa the following day.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Russian woman selflessly saves drowning elderly woman in China

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    Recently, Russian woman Shahnaz Gubaidullina became an Internet star. The girl recently graduated from the bachelor’s degree program at Huzhou University, which is located in Huzhou City, Zhejiang Province, after which she went on a tourist trip to Shaoxing. There, an unexpected situation occurred – an elderly woman fell into the water and began to drown. Without thinking, Shahnaz jumped into the water and began to pull out the drowning woman, calming her in Chinese: “Grandma, relax, don’t be afraid, I’m here.” Thanks to the joint efforts of the girl and the people on the shore, the elderly woman was saved.

    Shahnaz’s selfless act was captured on local CCTV cameras and the video went viral online, gaining many likes. The girl’s mother immediately sent her a message: “You saved a man’s life, I’m proud of you!” When Shahnaz went to buy some fruit, the shopkeeper recognized her and refused to take money, thus wanting to thank the girl for her good deed. In response to the public praise, Shahnaz said: “I am very pleased, but I didn’t really do anything special.”

    Shahnaz came to China in 2016 and after living here for many years, she has developed a deep love for Chinese culture. She is the only foreigner in the university’s lion dance troupe.

    Shahnaz does not want to leave Huzhou despite having already graduated from university. “I like it here very much, I want to continue studying and even stay here to live,” she admitted.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese, French legislative bodies pledge to strengthen ties

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

    Zhao Leji, chairman of the National People’s Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, and Yael Braun-Pivet, speaker of the French National Assembly, co-chair the 12th meeting of the exchange mechanism between the legislative bodies of China and France, in Beijing, capital of China, June 26, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    China’s top legislator Zhao Leji and Yael Braun-Pivet, speaker of the French National Assembly, co-chaired a meeting in Beijing on Thursday, pledging to strengthen ties.

    China is willing to enhance all-round exchanges and cooperation with France, Zhao said in a keynote address at the 12th meeting of the exchange mechanism between the legislative bodies of China and France.

    Zhao, chairman of the National People’s Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, said both sides should deepen cooperation in traditional fields, expand cooperation in emerging fields such as artificial intelligence and green and low-carbon development, and properly resolve trade differences through consultation and dialogue.

    He called on the two countries to deepen exchanges in culture, education and tourism and strengthen coordination in multilateral frameworks, adding that China believes France will abide by the one-China principle with concrete actions.

    As this year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and the European Union, China hopes for continuously improving China-EU relations that inject more stability and positive energy into the world, he said.

    This meeting marks the resumption of the exchange mechanism between the two legislative bodies after a five-year hiatus, and is of great significance for deepening the cooperation between the two sides, Zhao said.

    Zhao said China’s NPC is willing to work with the French parliament to implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state and provide legal support for practical cooperation between the two countries, adding that the NPC is ready to enhance exchanges and cooperation with the European Parliament.

    In the face of grave international situation, it is of vital importance for France and China, supporters of multilateralism, to enhance communication and solidarity, Braun-Pivet said.

    The French side hopes to strengthen cooperation with the Chinese side in trade and investment, artificial intelligence, climate change, culture and education, and jointly address global challenges, Braun-Pivet said.

    She said the French National Assembly is willing to deepen dialogue with the NPC of China to inject new vitality into the development of France-China relations.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Chinese resort area Beidaihe optimizes services for Russian tourists

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, June 27 (Xinhua) — Beidaihe Resort Area in Qinhuangdao City, north China’s Hebei Province, has been a favorite vacation spot for Russian tourists for many years. This summer, local authorities have taken various measures to provide Russian travelers with high-quality services that combine international standards and regional features.

    Beidaihe District, administratively subordinate to Qinhuangdao City, is located in the northern part of the Bohai Sea coast and is approximately 300 kilometers east of Beijing.

    Beidaihe Friendship Hotel is one of the first local agencies to welcome Russian tourists. Before the summer season, the hotel rooms were renovated and modernized to make foreign guests feel more comfortable.

    “In order to provide high-quality service and reception to Russian guests, we not only renovated and modernized the rooms, but also installed dehumidifiers in them. We hope that by optimizing every detail, the quality of guests’ stay will improve,” said Yang Xiaokun, Marketing Manager of the hotel.

    Many restaurants and hotels, optimistic about the business opportunities of the inbound tourism market, have also begun to modernize. Some have even organized training sessions for their employees on Russian culture and language, and have begun to offer dishes in accordance with the culinary preferences of Russians.

    “Our staff can communicate with guests in Russian. We also paid attention to the habits of Russian tourists, and, for example, extended the breakfast service to 10 o’clock. At the same time, we added hand-ground coffee, black tea, homemade strawberry jam and canned fruits to the menu so that Russian tourists feel cozy and comfortable,” said Su Xin, manager of Beidaihe Deyuan Hotel.

    On the evening of June 16, the first charter tourist group of 2025 with 100 tourists arrived from Yakutsk to the city of Qinhuangdao.

    “This year, Russian tourists came to Beidaihe earlier than in previous years. Usually, they just spent their time on the beach, but now many of them are showing interest in traditional Chinese culture,” said Sun Lanqing, manager of the Haizhiyun travel agency in Qinhuangdao.

    In the future, Qinhuangdao City will launch inbound tourism promotion activities. Qinhuangdao will strengthen international cooperation, develop a series of tourist routes, optimize tourism products, so as to enhance Qinhuangdao’s overseas tourism appeal. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China Produces 10,000th Yutong Bus for Central Asia

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    ZHENGZHOU, June 27 (Xinhua) — The 10,000th Yutong bus, intended for Central Asian countries, rolled off the assembly line in Zhengzhou on Thursday.

    Yutong, headquartered in Zhengzhou, the capital of Henan Province in central China, is one of the country’s major bus suppliers. The first Yutong buses were delivered to Kazakhstan back in 2005.

    Over the past 20 years, the company has steadily strengthened its position in the Central Asian market, having supplied a total of 10,000 buses to date, including more than a thousand new energy buses. Yutong has now become the best-selling Chinese bus brand in Central Asia.

    Earlier this year, the company signed a contract with Turkmenistan to supply 700 city buses. After the products are handed over to the customer, Yutong will provide 24-hour after-sales service, the company’s press service said.

    Yutong buses, which operate on the roads of Central Asian countries, including Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan, are generally in good technical condition. The technical characteristics of the company’s products and the level of service have been recognized by our customers, said Geng Jinke, the company’s product manager for the Central Asian market.

    Yutong’s products cover city buses, tourist buses, school buses and other special-purpose vehicles.

    By the end of 2024, the company had sold more than 46,000 Yutong buses, and the operating income of the enterprise exceeded 37 billion yuan. In total, about 200,000 Yutong new energy buses have been sold worldwide, the company’s press service said.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN engages in an interview with Maghreb Arabe Presse

    Source: ASEAN

    In wrapping up his Official Visit to Morocco, Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today shared his views with Maghreb Arabe Presse on the potential of the ASEAN-Morocco Sectoral Dialogue Partnership, which includes the areas of trade and investment, energy and climate change, education and youth, tourism and culture, and connectivity, among others. SG Dr. Kao also expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to learn more about the trajectory of Morocco’s national development, especially through his meetings with high-level Moroccan government officials. He further shared his perspectives on ways to further strengthen ASEAN-Morocco ties, particularly by promoting people-to-people ties, cultural and academic exchanges, facilitating private sector engagement and building institutional linkages. Maghreb Arabe Presse—is the official Moroccan news agency based in Rabat, established in 1959. It serves as the primary source of news and information for the Kingdom of Morocco, both domestically and internationally.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN engages in an interview with Maghreb Arabe Presse appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN engages in an interview with Maghreb Arabe Presse

    Source: ASEAN

    In wrapping up his Official Visit to Morocco, Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today shared his views with Maghreb Arabe Presse on the potential of the ASEAN-Morocco Sectoral Dialogue Partnership, which includes the areas of trade and investment, energy and climate change, education and youth, tourism and culture, and connectivity, among others. SG Dr. Kao also expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to learn more about the trajectory of Morocco’s national development, especially through his meetings with high-level Moroccan government officials. He further shared his perspectives on ways to further strengthen ASEAN-Morocco ties, particularly by promoting people-to-people ties, cultural and academic exchanges, facilitating private sector engagement and building institutional linkages. Maghreb Arabe Presse—is the official Moroccan news agency based in Rabat, established in 1959. It serves as the primary source of news and information for the Kingdom of Morocco, both domestically and internationally.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN engages in an interview with Maghreb Arabe Presse appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Australia – Australia’s set to accept its one millionth refugee – AMES

    Source: AMES

    Sometime, probably around October this year, a person will step off aircraft somewhere in Australia in the last stage of their journey way from conflict or persecution.

    This person will be the one millionth refugee settled in Australia since the end of World War II.

    The Department of Home Affairs says Australia has successfully settled more than 985,000 refugees and humanitarian entrants since the country’s first humanitarian intake occurred in 1947.

    With 20,000 refugee places currently allocated for each financial year, the million milestone is due to be reached in the early months of the 2025-26 financial year.

    Based on these figures, it is expected the one-millionth arrival to occur sometime between September and November 2025.

    The milestone represents a million individual journeys toward refuge and a million stories of people rebuilding their lives in safety with hope for the future.

    Since the 1930s, Australia has welcomed refugees fleeing global conflicts — from Jewish refugees before and after World War Two, to Southeast Asians after the Vietnam War.

    Following World War Two, Australia entered formal agreements with international bodies to accept displaced people from Europe.

    In November 1947, more than 800 people from Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania arrived in Fremantle. They were the first of 170,000 displaced persons resettled in Australia after World War Two.

    Later decades saw more structured resettlement, particularly in response to major global conflicts.

    Over the past 40 years, Australia has continued to resettle people from conflict-riven regions, including the Southeast Asia the Middle East, Africa and Myanmar.

    Today, refugees from Ukraine, Afghanistan, Venezuela, Iraq, Syria, Myanmar and countries in the Horn of Africa continue to arrive under the humanitarian program.

    In two recent emergency situations, Australia evacuated 4100 refugees from Afghanistan following the return of the Taliban to power in 2021 and around 4,000 Ukrainians, mostly women and children, who initially arrived on tourist visas after the Russian invasion are new transitioning to permanent protection visas.

    CEO of AMES Australia Cath Scarth said the million-refugee mark was a reflection of Australia’s proud history of affording refugee to people fleeing war, conflict or persecution.

    “Australia has a generous and sophisticated refugee settlement program that not only offers refuge to people fleeing war or persecution but also equips them to build successful lives and become contributors,” Ms Scarth said.

    “We are an example to the world at a time when more than 122 million people are displaced due to war, conflict or persecution,” she said.

    Australia is a leading refugee resettlement country, ranking among the top few resettlement countries on a per capita basis.

    The United States has historically accepted the greatest number of refugees, but its program has recently been effectively shuttered by the Trump administration, meaning the loss of 100,000 annual resettlement places.

    Among refugees who have come to Australia in recent years are:

    Iraqi doctor Asseel Yako who, in his homeland, tended to battlefield wounds suffered by soldiers or militia members fighting ISIS or patching up women children horrifically injured in explosions of gunfire.

    Ten years later he is still saving lives working a consultant physician, specialising in internal medicine at Warragul Hospital, in Gippsland, Victoria.

    The job is the culmination of years of hard work, striving to get his qualifications recognised in Australia.

    He had studied and worked as a doctor for almost twenty years before arriving in Australia, but he was forced to jump through extraordinary hoops to be able practice medicine again.

    Cambodian refugee Chan Uoy has helped breathe new life into the struggling regional town of Dimboola, in Victoria’s west.

    Chan has opened the Dimboola Imaginarium, an eclectic and exotic gift shop and Air BnB recently featured in the high-end magazine Conde Nast Traveller. Chan has also recently become the deputy mayor of the local Hindmarsh Shire.

    The Dimboola Imaginarium is a stimulating space with a cornucopia of exotic wares, including an almost life-size giraffe, oversize world globes, and colourfully painted rocking horses. The five Air BB bedrooms have differing but exotic and indulgent décor.

    He has also launched the Wimmera Steampunk Festival, which this year is expected to attract 5000 visitors to the town.

    Young soccer star Yaya Dukuly is the embodiment of refugee aspiration and success.

    The 22-year-old Adelaide United soccer star was born into a refugee family in Guinea. His father is a Liberian and his mother is from Guinea.

    Yaya arrived in Australia with his family as a child and grew up in Adelaide. Now a professional footballer and Australian under-23 representative, he is also an emerging community leader and role model.

    Yaya brought is powerful and authentic new voice in the multicultural sector, supporting newly arrived refugees and advocating for their communities.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Climate Report – Global Drought Hotspots Report Catalogs Severe Suffering, Economic Damage

    Source: United Nations – Convention to Combat Desertification

    Food, water, energy crises, human tragedies in 2023-2025 detailed in sweeping analysis by U.S. National Drought Mitigation Center and the UN Convention to Combat Desertification.

    Fuelled by climate change and relentless pressure on land and water resources, some of the most widespread and damaging drought events in recorded history have taken place since 2023, according to a UN-backed report launched today.

    Prepared by the U.S. National Drought Mitigation Center (NDMC) and the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), with support from the International Drought Resilience Alliance (IDRA), the report “Drought Hotspots Around the World 2023-2025” provides a comprehensive account of how droughts compound poverty, hunger, energy insecurity, and ecosystem collapse.

    Says UNCCD Executive Secretary Ibrahim Thiaw: “Drought is a silent killer. It creeps in, drains resources, and devastates lives in slow motion. Its scars run deep.”

    “Drought is no longer a distant threat,” he adds. “It is here, escalating, and demands urgent global cooperation. When energy, food, and water all go at once, societies start to unravel. That’s the new normal we need to be ready for.”

    “This is not a dry spell,” says Dr. Mark Svoboda, report co-author and NDMC Founding Director. “This is a slow-moving global catastrophe, the worst I’ve ever seen. This report underscores the need for systematic monitoring of how drought affects lives, livelihoods, and the health of the ecosystems that we all depend on.”

    “The Mediterranean countries represent canaries in the coal mine for all modern economies,” he adds. “The struggles experienced by Spain, Morocco and Türkiye to secure water, food, and energy under persistent drought offer a preview of water futures under unchecked global warming. No country, regardless of wealth or capacity, can afford to be complacent.”

    A wide-ranging crisis

    The new report synthesizes information from hundreds of government, scientific and media sources to highlight impacts within the most acute drought hotspots in Africa (Somalia, Ethiopia, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, Botswana, Namibia), the Mediterranean (Spain, Morocco, Türkiye), Latin America (Panama, Amazon Basin), Southeast Asia, and beyond.

    Africa: 

    • Over 90 million people across Eastern and Southern Africa face acute hunger. Some areas have been enduring their worst ever recorded drought.
    • Southern Africa, already drought-prone, was devastated with roughly 1/6th of the population (68 million) needing food aid in August 2024. 
    • In Ethiopia, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Malawi, maize and wheat crops have failed repeatedly. In Zimbabwe alone, the 2024 corn crop was down 70% year on year, and maize prices doubled while 9,000 cattle died of thirst and starvation. 
    • In Somalia, the government estimated 43,000 people died in 2022 alone due to drought-linked hunger. As of early 2025, 4.4 million people – a quarter of the population – face crisis-level food insecurity, including 784,000 expected to reach emergency levels.
    • Zambia suffered one of the world’s worst energy crises as the Zambezi River in April 2024 plummeted to 20% of its long-term average. The country’s largest hydroelectric plant, the Kariba Dam, fell to 7% generation capacity, causing blackouts of up to 21 hours per day and shuttering hospitals, bakeries, and factories.

    Mediterranean:

    • Spain: Water shortages hit agriculture, tourism, and domestic supply. By September 2023, two years of drought and record heat caused a 50% drop in Spain’s olive crop, causing its olive oil prices to double across the country. 
    • Morocco: The sheep population was 38% smaller in 2025 relative to 2016, prompting a royal plea to cancel traditional Eid sacrifices.
    • Türkiye: Drought accelerated groundwater depletion, triggering sinkholes that present hazards to communities and their infrastructure while permanently reducing aquifer storage capacity.

    Latin America:

    • Amazon Basin: Record-low river levels in 2023 and 2024 led to mass deaths of fish and endangered dolphins, and disrupted drinking water and transport for hundreds of thousands. As deforestation and fires intensify, the Amazon risks transitioning from a carbon sink to a carbon source.
    • Panama Canal: Water levels dropped so low that transits were slashed by over one-third (from 38 to 24 ships daily between October 2023 and January 2024), causing major global trade disruptions. Facing multi-week delays, many ships were rerouted to longer, costlier paths via the Suez Canal or South Africa’s infamous Cape of Good Hope. Among the knock-on effects, U.S. soybean exports slowed, and UK grocery stores reported shortages and rising prices of fruits and vegetables.

    Southeast Asia:

    • Drought disrupted production and supply chains of key crops such as rice, coffee, and sugar. In 2023-2024, dry conditions in Thailand and India, for example, triggered shortages leading to a 8.9% increase in the price of sugar in the US.

    “A Perfect Storm” of El Niño and climate change

    The 2023–2024 El Niño event amplified already harsh climate change impacts, triggering dry conditions across major agricultural and ecological zones. Drought’s impacts hit hardest in climate hotspots, regions already suffering from warming tr

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pingree Amendment to Protect Seasonal Work Visas Gets Unanimous Support in Appropriations Committee, Approved in Homeland Funding Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (1st District of Maine)

    Maine First District Congresswoman Chellie Pingree’s bipartisan effort to safeguard H-2B visas was unanimously approved in the Homeland Security Appropriations bill for Fiscal Year 2026. During today’s full Appropriations Committee markup of the bill, Pingree urged her colleagues to support her amendment, which she introduced with Congressman Andy Harris, M.D. (R-Md.), explaining how vital these seasonal work visas are to Maine businesses and tourism industry. 
    [embedded content]

    “We are going to have endless debate today, and it is all related to the fact that we don’t straighten out the situation that goes on in our country: the need for workers, the need to make sure that we have legal processes for people, and the need to make sure that farmers and hospitality industry and everyone else has all the people they need to do the job,” Pingree said. 

    Under the amendment, employers that have demonstrated a history of compliance with the H-2B program would have access to the highest number of visas issued to them over the past five years. 

    “I have examples of a family here, who had a family-owned seafood restaurant for 17 years,” Pingree continued. “They’ve been able to run their business [and] support local fishermen because they have H-2B workers. Motels, when they don’t have enough people, they close down a wing. They can’t be open for the season that they want because they don’t have enough people.”

    A transcript of Pingree’s remarks is available below.

    +++

    Thank you, Mr. Chair. I just want to thank my colleagues who have been working on some of these H-2B related issues, and make a few remarks about how they impact Maine. 

    First, I just want to say this is the Homeland Appropriations Committee, and we all have a lot of debate today related to immigration issues. And in my opinion, most of them go back to the fact that this Congress has been unwilling—during the period of time I’ve been here—to pass comprehensive immigration reform. Let’s just get that done. 

    We are going to have endless debate today, and it is all related to the fact that we don’t straighten out the situation that goes on in our country: the need for workers, the need to make sure that we have legal processes for people, and the need to make sure that farmers and hospitality industry and everyone else has all the people they need to do the job.

    I also want to concur, we shouldn’t be authorizing [this] on an appropriation committee, but we do, and we all use it when we can, because things like this are so vital. And this amendment comes up every year. And I’m always pleased to work with my colleague Mr. Harris and so many others, Mr. Cuellar who also have these concerns. Dutch [Ruppersberger], who used to be on the committee.

    If you have any kind of a seasonal industry, you know what we’re talking about. And this one also includes some agriculture, which is very much the same. So, I remind you all that I represent Maine. This is our summer season. I hope you’re all planning your August vacations, your opportunity to eat some lobster, have some wild blueberries, spend a little time on the ocean, and see our wonderful state.

    If you want, you can come in the winter, where we also have a seasonal industry of skiing and winter sports. So we’d love to have you either time. Tourism is our largest industry, and while we’re very proud of our agriculture, fishing, manufacturing, and the other things we do, we depend on tourism.

    And like so many other states, we don’t have enough people to do the jobs now. It’s a common summer job for kids. All my kids worked in the seasonal industry. I’ve worked in the seasonal industry. We’ve owned businesses in the seasonal industry. And the challenge is, while people say, ‘Oh, what a great summer job for kids,’ by the time it gets to August, they’re back to school, they’re back to sports. You can’t finish out the season.

    And we are thrilled that our tourists stay through October or come in even early November now, but we don’t have enough people to do the work. And I can list countless employers who come to visit me every year and say, what’s going to be the situation? How many workers? Will I be able to get the number of people that I need?

    I have examples of a family here, who had a family-owned seafood restaurant for 17 years. They’ve been able to run their business [and] support local fishermen because they have H-2B workers. Motels, when they don’t have enough people, they close down a wing. They can’t be open for the season that they want because they don’t have enough people.

    So without these visas that are so necessary, without these kinds of amendments that we have to sponsor, usually every year, because we’re always at odds with the system, we can’t do it. So I just want to support all the people who work on this. But I want to encourage us all to find an ultimate solution so that we’re not here every year authorizing on this committee—and also dealing with a hodgepodge solution to immigration reform.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Vermont Congressional Delegation Announces $5.8 Million Investment to Modernize Patrick Leahy Burlington International Airport 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the Vermont Congressional Delegation, Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), and Representative Becca Balint (VT-AL), announced a $5.8 million grant from the Department of Transportation’s Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which will assist with expansion and modernization improvements to the Patrick Leahy Burlington International Airport (BTV). The funds are made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The award will support the reconstruction of the airport’s second-floor corridor and the replacement of four jet bridges to increase accessibility and safety for passengers. 
    “This federal investment in infrastructure enhances the travel experience for both Vermonters and visitors alike and is vital to supporting our state’s economy and vibrant tourism industry. This funding will provide important modernization improvements at the Patrick Leahy Burlington International Airport to improve the traveler experience and safety for everyone traveling to and from the Green Mountain State,” said the Vermont Congressional Delegation. “We’re proud that the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law continues to boost economic growth and generate good-paying jobs in Vermont.” 
    “Thanks to the continued support of our federal delegation, we are able to meet the moment for our passengers and our region. As we approach potential record-breaking passenger numbers, the most direct flights in our history, and growing demand for safe, modern airport travel experiences, these federal investments are absolutely critical to the continued success of Leahy BTV. This funding ensures we can keep pace with that demand and deliver the world-class airport experience Vermonters and visitors deserve,” said Nic Longo, C.M., Director of Aviation, Patrick Leahy Burlington International Airport. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Chinese and French legislatures pledge to strengthen bilateral ties

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, June 26 (Xinhua) — Zhao Leji, chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress (NPC), and Yael Bron-Pivet, president of the French National Assembly, co-chaired the 12th meeting of the China-France Legislative Exchange Mechanism in Beijing on Thursday, agreeing to strengthen bilateral ties.

    In his opening speech, Zhao Leji said China stands ready to expand all-round exchanges and cooperation with France.

    The two sides should deepen cooperation in traditional areas, expand collaboration in emerging sectors such as artificial intelligence and green low-carbon development, and properly handle trade differences through consultation and dialogue, he said.

    Zhao Leji called on the two countries to deepen exchanges in culture, education and tourism and strengthen coordination within a multilateral framework, stressing that the Chinese side believes that France will take concrete actions to uphold the one-China principle.

    As the NPC Standing Committee chairman pointed out, given that this year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and the EU, China hopes that China-EU ties will continuously develop in a positive direction so that they will bring more stability and positive energy to the world.

    Zhao Leji stressed that this meeting marks the resumption of the exchange mechanism between the two legislatures after a five-year hiatus and is of great significance to deepening cooperation between the two sides.

    He stated that the NPC will work with the French parliament to implement the important agreements reached by the heads of state and provide legal guarantees for practical cooperation between China and France. Zhao Leji added that the NPC also wants to expand exchanges and cooperation with the European Parliament.

    J. Bron-Pivet, for her part, pointed out that in the current difficult international situation, it is extremely important for France and China, which are supporters of multilateralism, to strengthen communication and solidarity.

    The French side hopes to strengthen cooperation with the Chinese side in the areas of trade and investment, artificial intelligence, climate change, culture and education, and jointly overcome global challenges, said Bron-Pivet.

    She added that the French National Assembly is ready to deepen dialogue with the NPC to give new impetus to the development of French-Chinese relations. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Modernization of social infrastructure, support for investment projects: Yuri Trutnev held a meeting of the presidium of the government commission on issues of socio-economic development of the Far East

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    Deputy Prime Minister and Presidential Plenipotentiary Representative in the Far Eastern Federal District Yuri Trutnev held a meeting of the Presidium of the Government Commission on the Socio-Economic Development of the Far East.

    “We continue to work on the instructions of the President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin on the development of the Far East. Today we are holding another meeting of the Presidium of the Government Commission for the Development of the Far East. We will be the first to review the changes made to the plans for the social development of economic growth centers. In total, during the work of the commission under the presidential Far Eastern single subsidy program, more than 2,000 social facilities have been built and reconstructed in the Far East – schools, hospitals, kindergartens, FAPs, cultural and sports facilities, about 2,000 courtyards have been repaired. The implementation of the plans continues,” Yuri Trutnev opened the meeting.

    The agenda included issues of changes to the plans for social development of economic growth centers in the Far Eastern regions and support for investment projects. The Minister for the Development of the Far East and the Arctic, Alexey Chekunkov, reported on the regions’ proposals.

    At the meeting, the revised volumes of work on the creation of tourist trails and routes in Buryatia, Transbaikalia, Kamchatka and Chukotka were supported.

    Primorsky Krai has been approved for additional funding for a new event to improve the territory adjacent to the building of the branch of the National Center “Russia” in order to create a permanent exhibition of the National Center “Russia”.

    Thanks to savings on previously allocated funds, regions will be able to carry out additional activities. In Kamchatka Krai, 11 new events will be held to develop Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky. Khabarovsk Krai will be able to purchase four additional Class C ambulances for district hospitals. In Amur Oblast, the planned gas boiler house in Tynda will be provided with emergency heat supply. In Zabaikalsky Krai, documentation will be developed for the creation of the Temujin architectural complex based on the design project of Zhigzhit Bayaskhalov.

    The implementation of an investment project for the construction of residential microdistricts in the city of Bolshoy Kamen for employees of the Zvezda Shipbuilding Complex was discussed.

    “The Zvezda Shipyard is an important project, the largest shipyard in Russia, and the object of attention of the President of the Russian Federation. Let’s see what needs to be done to ensure that the company’s employees are provided with housing as soon as possible,” Yuri Trutnev emphasized.

    The housing construction project is being implemented at the Bolshoy Kamen priority development area simultaneously with the construction of the shipyard. The total housing demand is 5,795 apartments, which are being built in seven microdistricts within the framework of three projects: 444 apartments (PJSC NK Rosneft), 756 apartments (Primorsky Krai Government), 4,595 apartments (JSC VEB.DV and JSC DOM.RF). At present, a total of 38 residential buildings with 2,666 apartments have been commissioned. More than 3,000 apartments still need to be built.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: South and Central Asia Subcommittee Chairman Huizenga Delivers Opening Statement at Hearing on Terror Threat Landscape

    Source: US House Committee on Foreign Affairs

    Media Contact 202-321-9747

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, House Foreign Affairs South and Central Asia Subcommittee Chairman Bill Huizenga delivered opening remarks at a subcommittee hearing titled, “Assessing the Terror Threat Landscape in South and Central Asia and Examining Opportunities for Cooperation.”

    Watch Here

    -Remarks-

    Today we will discuss the current terror threats and the landscape throughout South and Central Asia and potential opportunities for the Trump administration to enhance our regional counterterrorism strategy.

    Since the Biden administration’s ill-conceived and executed and withdraw from Afghanistan, the subsequent Taliban takeover, the terror threat landscape in South and Central Asia has changed dramatically. Despite the Taliban’s Doha Agreement commitments, Afghanistan has once again become a hotbed for terrorists looking for safe harbor as they grow their ranks and abilities to project attacks across the region and frankly, the world.

    Threats from groups such as ISISK and the TTP, also known as the Pakistan Taliban, are higher than any time in recorded history, and internally, Pakistan has seen the highest rates of terror attacks in many years. And of course, the recent attack in Pahalgam reminded us all that the threat, the militant threat in Kashmir has not subsided.

    For decades, the United States has remained the global leader in the fight against terrorism. We’ve engaged our internal international partners through bilateral agreements and multilateral mechanisms that have supplied our allies with training and equipment to ensure that they are able to stop the spread of terrorism from further poisoning our world.

    However, the threat has persisted since the 2021 ISIS K bombing at Abbey Gate, which killed 13 American servicemen and 170 Afghan civilians and wounded many others, including one of my constituents from Southwest Michigan.

    The Taliban claims to be doing their best to eliminate the ISIS-K threat. However, while the Taliban claimed victory, ISIS-K continues to wreak havoc, conducting attacks that target everyone from innocent civilians to Taliban officials, all while continuing its effort to radicalize and recruit from diaspora communities across and even outside of Central Asia. Last year we saw the growing ISISK threat manifest as hundreds were killed in attacks in both Moscow and Tehran and through the foiled plot to attack the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris.

    Nevertheless, the United States continues to display strong leadership, working closely with our partners such as the Pakistanis who recently arrested a key planner in the Abbey Gate attacks. That individual has since been brought to the United States to stand trial for his crimes. The Pakistanis themselves are no strangers to the terrorist threat that festers within their own borders. 2024 was one of the most violent years in over a decade for Pakistan. Groups such as Tehrik-i-Taliban, Pakistan and the Balochistan Liberation Army threatened civilians and Pakistani security forces alike. Rising violence from such militant groups and others pose a significant threat to Pakistan’s internal security and has been the source of much friction between Pakistan and its neighbors in the region.

    Most recently, we saw the devastating attack on the Indian controlled Jammu and Kashmir where the 2026 individuals, primarily tourists, were brutally and deliberately killed in cold blood by militants. The attack led to a military conflict between two major nuclear powers, the first of its kind in years.

    I want to be clear; I respect India’s sovereign right to defend itself against rogue actors seeking to sow instability in the volatile region. But I support and encourage both sides to work earnestly to resolve the areas of conflict.

    As we discussed the challenges emanating from the region, it’s essential to assess the tools that we have at our disposal to continue the fight against terrorism. The Trump administration is uniquely, has a unique opportunity to find new ways to engage our regional partners and find a new path to stability and security.

    So I want to say thank you to our witnesses, Ms. Curtis and Ms. Todd, for being here today and I look forward to a robust conversation.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Secretarial Order Supporting Gateway Communities Issued by the Department of the Interior

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Tom McClintock Representing the 4th District of California

    Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom McClintock lauded the secretarial order signed yesterday by Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, ordering the National Park Service to enhance coordination between the parks and the Gateway communities that rely on them.

    At signing ceremonies at the Department of Interior, McClintock said “Our gateway communities depend on tourism for a large part of their economies.  Many make their livelihoods by making visitor stays as comfortable and enjoyable as humanly possible.  They comprise people who have spent their whole lives in and around Yosemite National Park and know it far better than the park employees who rotate in and out every few years.  And yet, one of the greatest frustrations they have expressed to me is that they feel largely ignored and excluded from decisions that directly affect the park, its visitors, their local businesses and their communities.

    “The secretarial order signed today changes that relationship fundamentally and directs park management to work in close consultation and partnership with the gateway communities.  On behalf of those communities, I cannot thank the Secretary enough for listening to our concerns and acting so decisively on them.”

    McClintock continued, “I am confident that this secretarial order ushers in a new era of cooperation between the park and our local communities.  Secretary Burgum has said that on his future visits, he intends also to meet with the gateway communities to get their candid assessments of management decisions and employee performance at the park and to get their ideas on how to improve hospitality and amenities.  This is a breath of fresh air.”

    The secretarial order includes recognizing gateway communities as key stakeholders in System Unit management and planning and fostering transparent, ongoing communication between System Units and gateway leadership. 

    The order also designates a gateway community coordinator at each System Unit to serve as the primary point of contact for all matters related to State, Tribal, and local government engagement, regional coordination, and community partnership development.

    A copy of the Secretarial order is attached.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Expanding Indigenous employment supports

    Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Chinese State Councilor Stresses Need to Support Employment, Boost Consumption

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    CHANGSHA, June 26 (Xinhua) — Chinese State Councilor Shen Yiqin has called for efforts to stabilize employment of key groups such as college graduates and further boost consumption related to culture, tourism and sports.

    Shen Yiqin made the remarks during an inspection tour of Hunan Province in central China from June 23 to 26.

    She pointed to the need to pay more attention to employment and take support measures to expand employment opportunities for key groups, including university graduates, migrant workers and those who have escaped poverty.

    Enterprises should receive more support to create new jobs, Shen Yiqin stressed, calling for large-scale vocational training programs to be launched in key sectors to upgrade the skills of the workforce.

    The State Councilor also called for consistently increasing the supply of high-quality products and services, and accelerating the deep integration of culture, tourism and sports with science and technology to better meet the growing demand of the population. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: World Bank Group, IAEA Formalize Partnership to Collaborate on Nuclear Energy for Development

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)

    Rafael Mariano Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency, and Ajay Banga, President of the World Bank Group, sign a partnership agreement to collaborate on the safe, secure and responsible use of nuclear energy for development. (Photo: M Arnaldo/World Bank)

    The World Bank Group and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) sealed an agreement today to work together to support the safe, secure and responsible use of nuclear energy in developing countries. The partnership agreement, signed by World Bank Group President Ajay Banga and IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi, formalizes multiple engagements between the two institutions over the last year, and marks the World Bank Group’s first concrete step to reengage with nuclear power in decades.

    The agreement also reflects a new, broader approach by the World Bank Group to electrification—one that prioritizes accessibility, affordability, and reliability, while managing emissions responsibly. With electricity demand in developing countries expected to more than double by 2035, this approach aims to help countries deliver the energy people need by enabling pathways that best fit their national context, including development objectives and Nationally Determined Contributions.

    Nuclear energy provides continuous baseload power, enhancing grid stability and resilience. Reliable baseload electricity is essential for job-generating sectors such as infrastructure, agribusiness, healthcare, tourism, and manufacturing. Nuclear power is also a source of high-skilled employment and stimulates investment across the broader economy. In addition, it can adjust to changes in electricity demand and support frequency regulation, enabling greater integration of variable renewable energy sources.

    “Jobs need electricity. So do factories, hospitals, schools, and water systems. And as demand surges—with AI and development alike—we must help countries deliver reliable, affordable power. That’s why we’re embracing nuclear energy as part of the solution—and reembracing it as part of the mix the World Bank Group can offer developing countries to achieve their ambitions. Importantly, nuclear delivers baseload power, which is essential to building modern economies,” said World Bank Group President Ajay Banga. “Our partnership with the IAEA marks an important step, and I’m grateful to Rafael for his personal commitment and leadership in making this possible. Together, we’ll deepen our expertise, support countries that choose nuclear, and ensure that safety, security, and sustainability guide every step forward.”

    “Today’s agreement is a milestone and the result of a year of joint work since President Ajay Banga kindly invited me to the World Bank Group Executive Board in Washington in June of last year,” IAEA Director General Grossi said. “This landmark partnership, yet another sign of the world’s return to realism on nuclear power, opens the door for other multilateral development banks and private investors to consider nuclear as a viable tool for energy security and sustainable prosperity. Together, we can help more people build a better future.”

    Under the memorandum of understanding signed today, the IAEA will work with the World Bank Group in three key areas:

    • Build knowledge related to the nuclear field: Expand the World Bank Group’s understanding of nuclear safety, security, safeguards, energy planning, new technologies, fuel cycles, reactor lifecycles, and waste management.
    • Extend the lifespan of existing nuclear power plants: Support developing countries in safely extending the life of existing nuclear reactors-one of the most cost-effective sources of low-carbon power-as many global reactors near the end of their original 40-year design life.
    • Advance SMRs: Accelerate the development of small modular reactors (SMRs), which offer flexible deployment, lower upfront costs, and potential for wide adoption in developing economies.

    Thirty-one countries currently operate nuclear power plants, which combined produce about 9% of the world’s electricity, amounting to almost a quarter of all low-carbon power globally. More than 30 other countries, most of them in the developing world, are considering or already embarking on the introduction of nuclear power and are working with the IAEA to develop the necessary infrastructure to do so safely, securely and sustainably.

    “SMRs have great potential to cleanly and reliably power progress and fight poverty, but financing remains a roadblock,” Director General Grossi said. “Today’s agreement is a crucial first step to clearing that path.”

    Contacts

    World Bank Group (London): David Young, (202) 473-4691, dyoung7@worldbankgroup.org;

    International Atomic Energy Agency (Vienna): Jeffrey Donovan, +43 699 165 22443, j.r.donovan@iaea.org

    About the World Bank Group: The World Bank Group works to create a world free of poverty on a livable planet through a combination of financing, knowledge, and expertise. It consists of the World Bank, including the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) and the International Development Association (IDA); the International Finance Corporation (IFC); the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA); and the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID). For more information, please visit www.worldbank.org, ida.worldbank.org/en/home, www.miga.org, www.ifc.org, and www.icsid.worldbank.org. 

    About the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA): The IAEA is an international organization that seeks to promote the peaceful use of nuclear energy and to prevent its use for military purposes. The IAEA supports its member states in developing robust and sustainable nuclear safety and security infrastructures and applies safeguards to verify the peaceful use of nuclear material and technology.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: World Bank Group, IAEA Formalize Partnership to Collaborate on Nuclear Energy for Development

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA

    Rafael Mariano Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency, and Ajay Banga, President of the World Bank Group, sign a partnership agreement to collaborate on the safe, secure and responsible use of nuclear energy for development. (Photo: M Arnaldo/World Bank)

    The World Bank Group and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) sealed an agreement today to work together to support the safe, secure and responsible use of nuclear energy in developing countries. The partnership agreement, signed by World Bank Group President Ajay Banga and IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi, formalizes multiple engagements between the two institutions over the last year, and marks the World Bank Group’s first concrete step to reengage with nuclear power in decades.

    The agreement also reflects a new, broader approach by the World Bank Group to electrification—one that prioritizes accessibility, affordability, and reliability, while managing emissions responsibly. With electricity demand in developing countries expected to more than double by 2035, this approach aims to help countries deliver the energy people need by enabling pathways that best fit their national context, including development objectives and Nationally Determined Contributions.

    Nuclear energy provides continuous baseload power, enhancing grid stability and resilience. Reliable baseload electricity is essential for job-generating sectors such as infrastructure, agribusiness, healthcare, tourism, and manufacturing. Nuclear power is also a source of high-skilled employment and stimulates investment across the broader economy. In addition, it can adjust to changes in electricity demand and support frequency regulation, enabling greater integration of variable renewable energy sources.

    “Jobs need electricity. So do factories, hospitals, schools, and water systems. And as demand surges—with AI and development alike—we must help countries deliver reliable, affordable power. That’s why we’re embracing nuclear energy as part of the solution—and reembracing it as part of the mix the World Bank Group can offer developing countries to achieve their ambitions. Importantly, nuclear delivers baseload power, which is essential to building modern economies,” said World Bank Group President Ajay Banga. “Our partnership with the IAEA marks an important step, and I’m grateful to Rafael for his personal commitment and leadership in making this possible. Together, we’ll deepen our expertise, support countries that choose nuclear, and ensure that safety, security, and sustainability guide every step forward.”

    “Today’s agreement is a milestone and the result of a year of joint work since President Ajay Banga kindly invited me to the World Bank Group Executive Board in Washington in June of last year,” IAEA Director General Grossi said. “This landmark partnership, yet another sign of the world’s return to realism on nuclear power, opens the door for other multilateral development banks and private investors to consider nuclear as a viable tool for energy security and sustainable prosperity. Together, we can help more people build a better future.”

    Under the memorandum of understanding signed today, the IAEA will work with the World Bank Group in three key areas:

    • Build knowledge related to the nuclear field: Expand the World Bank Group’s understanding of nuclear safety, security, safeguards, energy planning, new technologies, fuel cycles, reactor lifecycles, and waste management.
    • Extend the lifespan of existing nuclear power plants: Support developing countries in safely extending the life of existing nuclear reactors-one of the most cost-effective sources of low-carbon power-as many global reactors near the end of their original 40-year design life.
    • Advance SMRs: Accelerate the development of small modular reactors (SMRs), which offer flexible deployment, lower upfront costs, and potential for wide adoption in developing economies.

    Thirty-one countries currently operate nuclear power plants, which combined produce about 9% of the world’s electricity, amounting to almost a quarter of all low-carbon power globally. More than 30 other countries, most of them in the developing world, are considering or already embarking on the introduction of nuclear power and are working with the IAEA to develop the necessary infrastructure to do so safely, securely and sustainably.

    “SMRs have great potential to cleanly and reliably power progress and fight poverty, but financing remains a roadblock,” Director General Grossi said. “Today’s agreement is a crucial first step to clearing that path.”

    Contacts

    World Bank Group (London): David Young, (202) 473-4691, dyoung7@worldbankgroup.org;

    International Atomic Energy Agency (Vienna): Jeffrey Donovan, +43 699 165 22443, j.r.donovan@iaea.org

    About the World Bank Group: The World Bank Group works to create a world free of poverty on a livable planet through a combination of financing, knowledge, and expertise. It consists of the World Bank, including the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) and the International Development Association (IDA); the International Finance Corporation (IFC); the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA); and the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID). For more information, please visit www.worldbank.org, ida.worldbank.org/en/home, www.miga.org, www.ifc.org, and www.icsid.worldbank.org. 

    About the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA): The IAEA is an international organization that seeks to promote the peaceful use of nuclear energy and to prevent its use for military purposes. The IAEA supports its member states in developing robust and sustainable nuclear safety and security infrastructures and applies safeguards to verify the peaceful use of nuclear material and technology.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Transformation of Saratoga County Airport

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced the completion of a project that transformed the Saratoga County Airport into a world-class travel destination, substantially upgrading the airport’s facilities and services to further position the region for greater economic growth and expanded tourism. The reimagined airport features a new terminal building that boasts a spacious lobby, a new passenger waiting area, car rental space, a pilot’s lounge, and restaurant, along with a brand new adjacent 20,000 square-foot hangar, among other upgrades. Funded with $27 million from the Governor’s $230 million Upstate Airport Economic Development and Revitalization Completion, the project has revitalized the more than 80-year-old facility into a state-of-the-art gateway that will welcome visitors and become an exciting destination for local residents.

    The new facility, with its enhanced passenger and public amenities, is anticipated to further stimulate the local economy, according to the latest data from a State Department of Transportation survey that estimated the airport’s economic impact exceeds $9.7 million.

    “Regional airports like Saratoga County are catalysts for business, tourism and economic vibrance — injecting millions into local economies and building the foundations of a brighter future,” Governor Hochul said. “Saratoga is a crown jewel of our state, and whether you’re off to the races, traveling for business or coming home to New York, this world class facility will welcome you with open arms.”

    Built in 1943, the former facility was little more than a hangar that also served as an office space, passenger waiting area, flight planning area and conference room. The completely transformed facility now includes a conference space and a public restaurant operated by the owners of the well-known Alexis Diner in Rensselaer County — offering breakfast, lunch and dinner for diners seeking a unique aviation setting. The main lobby, outdoor patio, second-floor conference room and restaurant are all available for public use.

    Visitors will enter the spacious lobby, which features a carpet in the shape of Saratoga Lake, reflecting the area’s natural beauty. A grand staircase leads to the second-floor conference room and dining area, with an adjacent balcony overlooking the runway. In addition to the impressive amenities inside, the facility has a slate and timber exterior, and circular drive adorned with roses and featuring a bronze statue of a jockey riding a racehorse at its center — paying tribute to Saratoga’s horse racing heritage.

    The terminal building and connected hangar were built sustainably, featuring solar panels on the hangar roof, and geothermal wells for heating and cooling. EV chargers were also installed in the facility’s parking lot.

    The estimated $35.9 million project created approximately 390 jobs, and a project labor agreement guaranteed a skilled and trained workforce receiving fair wages, benefiting local economies and families across the region.

    The Saratoga County Airport was one of nine airports that received a share of a total of $230 million in Governor Hochul’s round of Upstate Airport Economic Development and Revitalization Competition funding announced in September 2022. This funding is not only upgrading New York’s Upstate airports, but it is also enhancing their ability to compete on the national and global aviation stage.

    New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said, “Governor Hochul’s strategic investment in our upstate airports is yielding huge dividends throughout New York, facilitating the growth of business and tourism in communities across our state. The new Saratoga County Airport represents our Governor’s vision for spaces that harmonize the role of our local economies with transportation needs and places that our community members will enjoy. Today, we are celebrating a major milestone for the Saratoga Region and everyone who visits, works here, or calls this region their home.”

    The Saratoga County Airport handles private aircraft with two runways and is operated by fixed based operator, North American Flight Services. Major construction began in January 2024 with work completed in time for the 2025 Belmont Stakes at the Saratoga Race Course. Improvements include:

    • Construction of a new fixed base operator terminal building to include new waiting areas; concessionaire tenant spaces; rental car lease space; advertisement display lease opportunities; conference room space; weather information access station; pilot lounge area; and connected 20,000 square-foot hangar space
    • Installation of solar panel array on hangar portion of new terminal building
    • Installation of geothermal wells for heating and cooling
    • Rehabilitation of the apron connecting to new terminal building

    Senator Charles Schumer said, “Saratoga County, prepare for takeoff! I’ve long fought to secure federal funding for airport upgrades because I know how crucial our airports are for attracting business and tourism to the Capital Region, and I’m proud that it is delivering for Saratoga County Airport today. This project will boost our local economy by improving the general aviation facilities. Whether a semiconductor business is flying in to meet GlobalFoundries or folks are visiting to experience Saratoga Race Course, or the Revolutionary battlefield, or using it as a gateway to Lake George and the Adirondack Park, these improvements will make that experience easier and more welcoming. I’m grateful for Governor Hochul’s partnership helping New York’s regional airports like Saratoga County’s reach new heights.”

    Senator Kirsten Gillibrand said, “Investing in our regional airports means investing in the future of our communities. These state-of-the-art improvements to the Saratoga County Airport created hundreds of good-paying jobs and will expand tourism in the Capital Region, positioning Saratoga County as a leading travel destination for years to come. I’m proud to have fought for the federal funds being used for this project, and I’ll continue working in Congress to deliver the resources our New York State communities need to thrive.”

    Representative Paul Tonko said, “I’m proud to see this transformative investment in the Saratoga County Airport come to life thanks to a strong state-federal partnership. This new and improved facility will not only elevate the travel experience for visitors to our Capital Region, but also serve as a powerful economic driver here in Saratoga County and beyond. I look forward to seeing this initiative boost tourism, create good-paying jobs, and help showcase all that Saratoga County and our Capital Region have to offer. Through projects like this one, we’re working together to make strategic infrastructure investments that help our communities thrive.”

    Assemblymember Al Stirpe said, “After waiting over 80 years for a proper makeover, Saratoga County residents and visitors alike will be able to visit an airport unique to the area that incorporates eco-friendly features and state-of-the-art designs. The new Saratoga County Airport reflects a larger effort to give back to our regional airports, loaded with the potential to grow local tourism, increase revenue, and enhance lives for Upstate residents. As Chair of Economic Development, it is critical that we renew our state’s aging airport infrastructure to ensure its continued growth for generations to come, solidifying Upstate New York as a good place to live, travel to, or make memories.”

    Assemblymember Carrie Woerner said, “I thank Governor Hochul for her strategic vision to not only revitalize the Saratoga County Airport, but to modernize it in a way that maintains our area’s rich culture and history. I have no doubt that the many enhanced travel, work and dining conveniences will improve our local economy and overall quality of life. And, I appreciate the significant effort that went into designing more efficient and sustainable upgrades with the beauty of our mountains, lakes and horses in mind. I’d also like to thank the County Board of Supervisors for their steadfast leadership and support of the county airport’s expansion and enhancement.”

    Saratoga County Board of Supervisors Chairman Phil Barrett said, “We are proud to unveil the new welcome center at the Saratoga County Airport. Designed to showcase Saratoga County’s charm, this modern facility is a vital gateway to our local economy and an inviting attraction for the community with public dining, a scenic patio space, a pilot lounge, car rental desk, spacious hangar, and a community room available to organizations for meetings and small events. The Saratoga County Board of Supervisors thanks the New York State Department of Transportation for providing funding to support the County’s airport modernization project, helping us to create a sustainable, energy efficient building for business travelers, glider and leisure pilots, and community members alike.”

    The Upstate Airport Economic Development and Revitalization Competition is administered by the New York State Department of Transportation and was open to upstate commercial passenger service airports and airports providing specialized service for commercial aircraft and/or corporate jets. Applicants were encouraged to apply for funding a single project or a program of projects to help meet the demands of the 21st century. Projects submitted for review by eligible airports were evaluated based on established criteria, including, but not limited to innovation in design, passenger amenities and experience, operational efficiencies and economic effectiveness for the airport’s region.

    About the Department of Transportation
    It is the mission of the New York State Department of Transportation to provide a safe, reliable, equitable and resilient transportation system that connects communities, enhances quality of life, protects the environment and supports the economic well-being of New York State.

    Lives are on the line; slow down and move over for highway workers!

    For more information, find us on Facebook, follow us on X or Instagram, or visit our website. For up-to-date travel information, call 511, visit www.511NY.org or download the free 511NY mobile app.

    MIL OSI USA News –