Category: Trade

  • MIL-OSI USA: U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services, May 2025

    Source: US Bureau of Economic Analysis

    The U.S. Census Bureau and the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis announced today that the goods and services deficit was $71.5 billion in May, up $11.3 billion from $60.3 billion in April, revised.

    U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services Deficit
    Deficit:

    $71.5 Billion

    +18.7%°

    Exports:

    $279.0 Billion

    –4.0%°

    Imports:

    $350.5 Billion

    –0.1%°

    Next release: Tuesday, August 5, 2025

    (°) Statistical significance is not applicable or not measurable. Data adjusted for seasonality but not price changes

    Source: U.S. Census Bureau, U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis; U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services, July 3, 2025

    Exports, Imports, and Balance (exhibit 1)

    May exports were $279.0 billion, $11.6 billion less than April exports. May imports were $350.5 billion, $0.3 billion less than April imports.

    The May increase in the goods and services deficit reflected an increase in the goods deficit of $11.2 billion to $97.5 billion and a decrease in the services surplus of $0.1 billion to $26.0 billion.

    Year-to-date, the goods and services deficit increased $175.0 billion, or 50.4 percent, from the same period in 2024. Exports increased $73.6 billion or 5.5 percent. Imports increased $248.7 billion or 14.8 percent.

    Three-Month Moving Averages (exhibit 2)

    The average goods and services deficit decreased $16.8 billion to $90.0 billion for the three months ending in May.

    • Average exports increased $0.1 billion to $283.5 billion in May.
    • Average imports decreased $16.7 billion to $373.6 billion in May.

    Year-over-year, the average goods and services deficit increased $18.8 billion from the three months ending in May 2024.

    • Average exports increased $17.9 billion from May 2024.
    • Average imports increased $36.6 billion from May 2024.

    Exports (exhibits 3, 6, and 7)

    Exports of goods decreased $11.4 billion to $180.2 billion in May.

      Exports of goods on a Census basis decreased $10.8 billion.

    • Industrial supplies and materials decreased $10.0 billion.
      • Nonmonetary gold decreased $5.5 billion.
      • Natural gas decreased $1.1 billion.
      • Finished metal shapes decreased $1.0 billion.
    • Capital goods decreased $1.9 billion.
      • Semiconductors decreased $0.6 billion.
      • Civilian aircraft engines decreased $0.5 billion.
      • Telecommunications equipment decreased $0.4 billion.
      • Computer accessories increased $0.8 billion.
    • Consumer goods increased $1.5 billion.
      • Pharmaceutical preparations increased $1.1 billion.

      Net balance of payments adjustments decreased $0.6 billion.

    Exports of services decreased $0.2 billion to $98.8 billion in May.

    • Travel decreased $0.3 billion.
    • Transport decreased $0.2 billion.
    • Charges for the use of intellectual property increased $0.1 billion.
    • Other business services increased $0.1 billion.

    Imports (exhibits 4, 6, and 8)

    Imports of goods decreased $0.2 billion to $277.7 billion in May.

      Imports of goods on a Census basis decreased $0.3 billion.

    • Consumer goods decreased $4.0 billion.
      • Other textile apparel and household goods decreased $0.8 billion.
      • Toys, games, and sporting goods decreased $0.7 billion.
      • Pharmaceutical preparations increased $2.5 billion.
    • Industrial supplies and materials decreased $0.9 billion.
      • Finished metal shapes decreased $1.7 billion.
      • Nuclear fuel materials increased $0.6 billion.
    • Automotive vehicles, parts, and engines increased $3.4 billion.
      • Passenger cars increased $3.1 billion.
    • Other goods increased $1.0 billion.
    • Capital goods increased $0.3 billion.
      • Computers increased $4.4 billion.
      • Computer accessories decreased $2.8 billion.

      Net balance of payments adjustments increased $0.1 billion.

    Imports of services decreased $0.1 billion to $72.8 billion in May.

    • Transport decreased $0.4 billion.
    • Travel decreased $0.2 billion.
    • Other business services increased $0.1 billion.
    • Maintenance and repair services increased $0.1 billion.

    Real Goods in 2017 Dollars – Census Basis (exhibit 11)

    The real goods deficit increased $8.1 billion, or 9.6 percent, to $92.5 billion in May, compared to a 12.3 percent increase in the nominal deficit.

    • Real exports of goods decreased $8.2 billion, or 5.3 percent, to $148.3 billion, compared to a 5.7 percent decrease in nominal exports.
    • Real imports of goods decreased $0.1 billion, or 0.1 percent, to $240.8 billion, compared to a 0.1 percent decrease in nominal imports.

    Revisions

    Revisions to April exports

    • Exports of goods were revised up $1.1 billion.
    • Exports of services were revised up $0.1 billion.

    Revisions to April imports

    • Imports of goods were revised down less than $0.1 billion.
    • Imports of services were revised down $0.2 billion.

    Goods by Selected Countries and Areas: Monthly – Census Basis (exhibit 19)

    The May figures show surpluses, in billions of dollars, with Netherlands ($4.8), Hong Kong ($3.6), South and Central America ($3.3), Switzerland ($3.3), United Kingdom ($3.0), Australia ($1.5), Brazil ($0.5), Saudi Arabia ($0.5), Belgium ($0.4), Singapore ($0.3), and Israel ($0.1). Deficits were recorded, in billions of dollars, with European Union ($22.5), Mexico ($17.1), Vietnam ($14.9), China ($14.0), Ireland ($11.8), Taiwan ($11.5), Germany ($6.8), Japan ($5.8), South Korea ($5.4), India ($5.1), Canada ($2.8), Italy ($2.6), Malaysia ($2.4), and France ($0.5).

    • The deficit with Mexico increased $3.6 billion to $17.1 billion in May. Exports decreased $0.3 billion to $27.5 billion and imports increased $3.3 billion to $44.6 billion.
    • The deficit with Ireland increased $2.4 billion to $11.8 billion in May. Exports increased $0.2 billion to $1.6 billion and imports increased $2.5 billion to $13.4 billion.
    • The deficit with China decreased $5.7 billion to $14.0 billion in May. Exports decreased $1.7 billion to $6.9 billion and imports decreased $7.4 billion to $20.9 billion.

    All statistics referenced are seasonally adjusted; statistics are on a balance of payments basis unless otherwise specified. Additional statistics, including not seasonally adjusted statistics and details for goods on a Census basis, are available in exhibits 1-20b of this release. For information on data sources, definitions, and revision procedures, see the explanatory notes in this release. The full release can be found at www.census.gov/foreign-trade/Press-Release/current_press_release/index.html or www.bea.gov/data/intl-trade-investment/international-trade-goods-and-services. The full schedule is available in the Census Bureau’s Economic Briefing Room at www.census.gov/economic-indicators/ or on BEA’s website at www.bea.gov/news/schedule.

    Next release: August 5, 2025, at 8:30 a.m. EDT
    U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services, June 2025

    Notice

    Update to BEA’s Annual International Services Tables

    BEA’s annual international services tables—BEA’s most detailed trade in services statistics by service type and geographic area—are scheduled for release at 10:00 a.m. on July 3, 2025, for statistics through 2024. With this release, BEA is introducing “Table 2.4. U.S. Trade in Services, Expanded Geographic Detail,” which presents total services exports, imports, and balance for 237 countries and areas, 147 more than the 90 presented in tables 2.2 and 2.3, beginning with statistics for 2018.

    If you have questions or need additional information, please contact BEA, Balance of Payments Division, at InternationalAccounts@bea.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services, May 2025

    Source: US Bureau of Economic Analysis

    The U.S. Census Bureau and the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis announced today that the goods and services deficit was $71.5 billion in May, up $11.3 billion from $60.3 billion in April, revised.

    U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services Deficit
    Deficit:

    $71.5 Billion

    +18.7%°

    Exports:

    $279.0 Billion

    –4.0%°

    Imports:

    $350.5 Billion

    –0.1%°

    Next release: Tuesday, August 5, 2025

    (°) Statistical significance is not applicable or not measurable. Data adjusted for seasonality but not price changes

    Source: U.S. Census Bureau, U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis; U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services, July 3, 2025

    Exports, Imports, and Balance (exhibit 1)

    May exports were $279.0 billion, $11.6 billion less than April exports. May imports were $350.5 billion, $0.3 billion less than April imports.

    The May increase in the goods and services deficit reflected an increase in the goods deficit of $11.2 billion to $97.5 billion and a decrease in the services surplus of $0.1 billion to $26.0 billion.

    Year-to-date, the goods and services deficit increased $175.0 billion, or 50.4 percent, from the same period in 2024. Exports increased $73.6 billion or 5.5 percent. Imports increased $248.7 billion or 14.8 percent.

    Three-Month Moving Averages (exhibit 2)

    The average goods and services deficit decreased $16.8 billion to $90.0 billion for the three months ending in May.

    • Average exports increased $0.1 billion to $283.5 billion in May.
    • Average imports decreased $16.7 billion to $373.6 billion in May.

    Year-over-year, the average goods and services deficit increased $18.8 billion from the three months ending in May 2024.

    • Average exports increased $17.9 billion from May 2024.
    • Average imports increased $36.6 billion from May 2024.

    Exports (exhibits 3, 6, and 7)

    Exports of goods decreased $11.4 billion to $180.2 billion in May.

      Exports of goods on a Census basis decreased $10.8 billion.

    • Industrial supplies and materials decreased $10.0 billion.
      • Nonmonetary gold decreased $5.5 billion.
      • Natural gas decreased $1.1 billion.
      • Finished metal shapes decreased $1.0 billion.
    • Capital goods decreased $1.9 billion.
      • Semiconductors decreased $0.6 billion.
      • Civilian aircraft engines decreased $0.5 billion.
      • Telecommunications equipment decreased $0.4 billion.
      • Computer accessories increased $0.8 billion.
    • Consumer goods increased $1.5 billion.
      • Pharmaceutical preparations increased $1.1 billion.

      Net balance of payments adjustments decreased $0.6 billion.

    Exports of services decreased $0.2 billion to $98.8 billion in May.

    • Travel decreased $0.3 billion.
    • Transport decreased $0.2 billion.
    • Charges for the use of intellectual property increased $0.1 billion.
    • Other business services increased $0.1 billion.

    Imports (exhibits 4, 6, and 8)

    Imports of goods decreased $0.2 billion to $277.7 billion in May.

      Imports of goods on a Census basis decreased $0.3 billion.

    • Consumer goods decreased $4.0 billion.
      • Other textile apparel and household goods decreased $0.8 billion.
      • Toys, games, and sporting goods decreased $0.7 billion.
      • Pharmaceutical preparations increased $2.5 billion.
    • Industrial supplies and materials decreased $0.9 billion.
      • Finished metal shapes decreased $1.7 billion.
      • Nuclear fuel materials increased $0.6 billion.
    • Automotive vehicles, parts, and engines increased $3.4 billion.
      • Passenger cars increased $3.1 billion.
    • Other goods increased $1.0 billion.
    • Capital goods increased $0.3 billion.
      • Computers increased $4.4 billion.
      • Computer accessories decreased $2.8 billion.

      Net balance of payments adjustments increased $0.1 billion.

    Imports of services decreased $0.1 billion to $72.8 billion in May.

    • Transport decreased $0.4 billion.
    • Travel decreased $0.2 billion.
    • Other business services increased $0.1 billion.
    • Maintenance and repair services increased $0.1 billion.

    Real Goods in 2017 Dollars – Census Basis (exhibit 11)

    The real goods deficit increased $8.1 billion, or 9.6 percent, to $92.5 billion in May, compared to a 12.3 percent increase in the nominal deficit.

    • Real exports of goods decreased $8.2 billion, or 5.3 percent, to $148.3 billion, compared to a 5.7 percent decrease in nominal exports.
    • Real imports of goods decreased $0.1 billion, or 0.1 percent, to $240.8 billion, compared to a 0.1 percent decrease in nominal imports.

    Revisions

    Revisions to April exports

    • Exports of goods were revised up $1.1 billion.
    • Exports of services were revised up $0.1 billion.

    Revisions to April imports

    • Imports of goods were revised down less than $0.1 billion.
    • Imports of services were revised down $0.2 billion.

    Goods by Selected Countries and Areas: Monthly – Census Basis (exhibit 19)

    The May figures show surpluses, in billions of dollars, with Netherlands ($4.8), Hong Kong ($3.6), South and Central America ($3.3), Switzerland ($3.3), United Kingdom ($3.0), Australia ($1.5), Brazil ($0.5), Saudi Arabia ($0.5), Belgium ($0.4), Singapore ($0.3), and Israel ($0.1). Deficits were recorded, in billions of dollars, with European Union ($22.5), Mexico ($17.1), Vietnam ($14.9), China ($14.0), Ireland ($11.8), Taiwan ($11.5), Germany ($6.8), Japan ($5.8), South Korea ($5.4), India ($5.1), Canada ($2.8), Italy ($2.6), Malaysia ($2.4), and France ($0.5).

    • The deficit with Mexico increased $3.6 billion to $17.1 billion in May. Exports decreased $0.3 billion to $27.5 billion and imports increased $3.3 billion to $44.6 billion.
    • The deficit with Ireland increased $2.4 billion to $11.8 billion in May. Exports increased $0.2 billion to $1.6 billion and imports increased $2.5 billion to $13.4 billion.
    • The deficit with China decreased $5.7 billion to $14.0 billion in May. Exports decreased $1.7 billion to $6.9 billion and imports decreased $7.4 billion to $20.9 billion.

    All statistics referenced are seasonally adjusted; statistics are on a balance of payments basis unless otherwise specified. Additional statistics, including not seasonally adjusted statistics and details for goods on a Census basis, are available in exhibits 1-20b of this release. For information on data sources, definitions, and revision procedures, see the explanatory notes in this release. The full release can be found at www.census.gov/foreign-trade/Press-Release/current_press_release/index.html or www.bea.gov/data/intl-trade-investment/international-trade-goods-and-services. The full schedule is available in the Census Bureau’s Economic Briefing Room at www.census.gov/economic-indicators/ or on BEA’s website at www.bea.gov/news/schedule.

    Next release: August 5, 2025, at 8:30 a.m. EDT
    U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services, June 2025

    Notice

    Update to BEA’s Annual International Services Tables

    BEA’s annual international services tables—BEA’s most detailed trade in services statistics by service type and geographic area—are scheduled for release at 10:00 a.m. on July 3, 2025, for statistics through 2024. With this release, BEA is introducing “Table 2.4. U.S. Trade in Services, Expanded Geographic Detail,” which presents total services exports, imports, and balance for 237 countries and areas, 147 more than the 90 presented in tables 2.2 and 2.3, beginning with statistics for 2018.

    If you have questions or need additional information, please contact BEA, Balance of Payments Division, at InternationalAccounts@bea.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services, May 2025

    Source: US Bureau of Economic Analysis

    The U.S. Census Bureau and the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis announced today that the goods and services deficit was $71.5 billion in May, up $11.3 billion from $60.3 billion in April, revised.

    U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services Deficit
    Deficit:

    $71.5 Billion

    +18.7%°

    Exports:

    $279.0 Billion

    –4.0%°

    Imports:

    $350.5 Billion

    –0.1%°

    Next release: Tuesday, August 5, 2025

    (°) Statistical significance is not applicable or not measurable. Data adjusted for seasonality but not price changes

    Source: U.S. Census Bureau, U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis; U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services, July 3, 2025

    Exports, Imports, and Balance (exhibit 1)

    May exports were $279.0 billion, $11.6 billion less than April exports. May imports were $350.5 billion, $0.3 billion less than April imports.

    The May increase in the goods and services deficit reflected an increase in the goods deficit of $11.2 billion to $97.5 billion and a decrease in the services surplus of $0.1 billion to $26.0 billion.

    Year-to-date, the goods and services deficit increased $175.0 billion, or 50.4 percent, from the same period in 2024. Exports increased $73.6 billion or 5.5 percent. Imports increased $248.7 billion or 14.8 percent.

    Three-Month Moving Averages (exhibit 2)

    The average goods and services deficit decreased $16.8 billion to $90.0 billion for the three months ending in May.

    • Average exports increased $0.1 billion to $283.5 billion in May.
    • Average imports decreased $16.7 billion to $373.6 billion in May.

    Year-over-year, the average goods and services deficit increased $18.8 billion from the three months ending in May 2024.

    • Average exports increased $17.9 billion from May 2024.
    • Average imports increased $36.6 billion from May 2024.

    Exports (exhibits 3, 6, and 7)

    Exports of goods decreased $11.4 billion to $180.2 billion in May.

      Exports of goods on a Census basis decreased $10.8 billion.

    • Industrial supplies and materials decreased $10.0 billion.
      • Nonmonetary gold decreased $5.5 billion.
      • Natural gas decreased $1.1 billion.
      • Finished metal shapes decreased $1.0 billion.
    • Capital goods decreased $1.9 billion.
      • Semiconductors decreased $0.6 billion.
      • Civilian aircraft engines decreased $0.5 billion.
      • Telecommunications equipment decreased $0.4 billion.
      • Computer accessories increased $0.8 billion.
    • Consumer goods increased $1.5 billion.
      • Pharmaceutical preparations increased $1.1 billion.

      Net balance of payments adjustments decreased $0.6 billion.

    Exports of services decreased $0.2 billion to $98.8 billion in May.

    • Travel decreased $0.3 billion.
    • Transport decreased $0.2 billion.
    • Charges for the use of intellectual property increased $0.1 billion.
    • Other business services increased $0.1 billion.

    Imports (exhibits 4, 6, and 8)

    Imports of goods decreased $0.2 billion to $277.7 billion in May.

      Imports of goods on a Census basis decreased $0.3 billion.

    • Consumer goods decreased $4.0 billion.
      • Other textile apparel and household goods decreased $0.8 billion.
      • Toys, games, and sporting goods decreased $0.7 billion.
      • Pharmaceutical preparations increased $2.5 billion.
    • Industrial supplies and materials decreased $0.9 billion.
      • Finished metal shapes decreased $1.7 billion.
      • Nuclear fuel materials increased $0.6 billion.
    • Automotive vehicles, parts, and engines increased $3.4 billion.
      • Passenger cars increased $3.1 billion.
    • Other goods increased $1.0 billion.
    • Capital goods increased $0.3 billion.
      • Computers increased $4.4 billion.
      • Computer accessories decreased $2.8 billion.

      Net balance of payments adjustments increased $0.1 billion.

    Imports of services decreased $0.1 billion to $72.8 billion in May.

    • Transport decreased $0.4 billion.
    • Travel decreased $0.2 billion.
    • Other business services increased $0.1 billion.
    • Maintenance and repair services increased $0.1 billion.

    Real Goods in 2017 Dollars – Census Basis (exhibit 11)

    The real goods deficit increased $8.1 billion, or 9.6 percent, to $92.5 billion in May, compared to a 12.3 percent increase in the nominal deficit.

    • Real exports of goods decreased $8.2 billion, or 5.3 percent, to $148.3 billion, compared to a 5.7 percent decrease in nominal exports.
    • Real imports of goods decreased $0.1 billion, or 0.1 percent, to $240.8 billion, compared to a 0.1 percent decrease in nominal imports.

    Revisions

    Revisions to April exports

    • Exports of goods were revised up $1.1 billion.
    • Exports of services were revised up $0.1 billion.

    Revisions to April imports

    • Imports of goods were revised down less than $0.1 billion.
    • Imports of services were revised down $0.2 billion.

    Goods by Selected Countries and Areas: Monthly – Census Basis (exhibit 19)

    The May figures show surpluses, in billions of dollars, with Netherlands ($4.8), Hong Kong ($3.6), South and Central America ($3.3), Switzerland ($3.3), United Kingdom ($3.0), Australia ($1.5), Brazil ($0.5), Saudi Arabia ($0.5), Belgium ($0.4), Singapore ($0.3), and Israel ($0.1). Deficits were recorded, in billions of dollars, with European Union ($22.5), Mexico ($17.1), Vietnam ($14.9), China ($14.0), Ireland ($11.8), Taiwan ($11.5), Germany ($6.8), Japan ($5.8), South Korea ($5.4), India ($5.1), Canada ($2.8), Italy ($2.6), Malaysia ($2.4), and France ($0.5).

    • The deficit with Mexico increased $3.6 billion to $17.1 billion in May. Exports decreased $0.3 billion to $27.5 billion and imports increased $3.3 billion to $44.6 billion.
    • The deficit with Ireland increased $2.4 billion to $11.8 billion in May. Exports increased $0.2 billion to $1.6 billion and imports increased $2.5 billion to $13.4 billion.
    • The deficit with China decreased $5.7 billion to $14.0 billion in May. Exports decreased $1.7 billion to $6.9 billion and imports decreased $7.4 billion to $20.9 billion.

    All statistics referenced are seasonally adjusted; statistics are on a balance of payments basis unless otherwise specified. Additional statistics, including not seasonally adjusted statistics and details for goods on a Census basis, are available in exhibits 1-20b of this release. For information on data sources, definitions, and revision procedures, see the explanatory notes in this release. The full release can be found at www.census.gov/foreign-trade/Press-Release/current_press_release/index.html or www.bea.gov/data/intl-trade-investment/international-trade-goods-and-services. The full schedule is available in the Census Bureau’s Economic Briefing Room at www.census.gov/economic-indicators/ or on BEA’s website at www.bea.gov/news/schedule.

    Next release: August 5, 2025, at 8:30 a.m. EDT
    U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services, June 2025

    Notice

    Update to BEA’s Annual International Services Tables

    BEA’s annual international services tables—BEA’s most detailed trade in services statistics by service type and geographic area—are scheduled for release at 10:00 a.m. on July 3, 2025, for statistics through 2024. With this release, BEA is introducing “Table 2.4. U.S. Trade in Services, Expanded Geographic Detail,” which presents total services exports, imports, and balance for 237 countries and areas, 147 more than the 90 presented in tables 2.2 and 2.3, beginning with statistics for 2018.

    If you have questions or need additional information, please contact BEA, Balance of Payments Division, at InternationalAccounts@bea.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Video: The Global Alliance for Trade Facilitation: Targeted Solutions, Global Impact

    Source: World Economic Forum (video statements)

    Trade is vital for development, but many countries face costly delays and inefficiencies. The Global Alliance for Trade Facilitation is partnering with governments, businesses, and international organizations to streamline customs, digitalize processes, and unlock global markets for SMEs.

    The Alliance drives practical reforms that boost exports, cut costs, and make trade faster, safer, and more inclusive. Hear from global leaders on how public-private collaboration is reshaping trade for good.

    To learn more about the Global Alliance for Trade Facilitation please visit: https://www.tradefacilitation.org/

    #TradeFacilitation #DigitalTrade #SMEs #InclusiveTrade #CustomsReform

    The World Economic Forum is the International Organization for Public-Private Cooperation. The Forum engages the foremost political, business, cultural and other leaders of society to shape global, regional and industry agendas. We believe that progress happens by bringing together people from all walks of life who have the drive and the influence to make positive change.

    World Economic Forum Website ► http://www.weforum.org/
    Facebook ► https://www.facebook.com/worldeconomicforum/
    YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/wef
    Instagram ► https://www.instagram.com/worldeconomicforum/ 
    Twitter ► https://twitter.com/wef
    LinkedIn ► https://www.linkedin.com/company/world-economic-forum
    TikTok ► https://www.tiktok.com/@worldeconomicforum
    Flipboard ► https://flipboard.com/@WEF

    #WorldEconomicForum

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MQdqbbrULJ0

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Ethiopia: African Development Bank approves $50 million Trade Finance Transaction Guarantee Facility to Awash Bank for support to Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs) and local corporates

    Source: APO


    .

    The Board of Directors of the African Development Bank Group (www.AfDB.org) has approved a $50 million Trade Finance Transaction Guarantee facility to support to trade finance activities of Awash Bank S.C. (Awash) (https://apo-opa.co/44ecHyL), in Ethiopia.  

    This facility will enable the Bank to provide a guarantee of up to 100 percent to confirming banks for the non-payment risk arising from the confirmation of Letters of Credit and similar trade finance instruments issued by Awash. The facility will provide much needed import trade finance requirements to Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs) and local corporates in Ethiopia. It will also support intra-Africa trade, thus directly contributing to the successful implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) (https://apo-opa.co/44J2Sc1) agenda.  

    Following the approval, African Development Bank Head of Trade Finance, Lamin Drammeh said: “Supporting Trade in Africa is a key priority at the African Development Bank. Trade finance is an important driver of economic growth and is critical for cross-border trade, particularly in emerging markets. We are delighted to work with Awash, a strong partner with extensive knowledge and network in Ethiopia, on a shared ambition to support the region’s Trade.” 

    Commenting on the approval, Tsehay Shiferaw, CEO of Awash Bank S.C., said: “The Trade Finance Transaction Guarantee facility approved to our bank by the African Development Bank will ease the burden of arranging cash collateral with banks, thereby improving our liquidity and enabling us to support more trade customers.” He added: “The facility will enhance our trade relationships with other International and African confirming banks.

    Awash looks forward to further strengthening its partnership and benefiting more from the resources and extensive capabilities of the African Development Bank and its partners, Shiferaw said. 

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

    Contact: 
    Amba Mpoke-Bigg
    Communication and External Relations Department
    email: a.mpoke-bigg@afdb.org  

    Technical Contact: 
    Bernard Muhati 
    b.muhati@afdb.org   

    About the African Development Bank Group:
    The African Development Bank Group is Africa’s premier development finance institution. It comprises three distinct entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF). On the ground in 41 African countries with an external office in Japan, the Bank contributes to the economic development and the social progress of its 54 regional member states. 

    For more information: www.AfDB.org

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI: American Rebel Light Beer Congratulates John Hall on Triumphant NHRA Victory in Ohio

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Hall Scores First Pro Stock Motorcycle Win in Nearly 12 Years

    Nashville, TN, July 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AREB), the unapologetically patriotic lifestyle brand behind America’s Patriotic, God-Fearing, Constitution-Loving, National Anthem-Singing, Stand Your Ground Beer (americanrebelbeer.com), proudly congratulates John Hall on his exhilarating Pro Stock Motorcycle win on his American Rebel Buell at the 19th annual Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals in Norwalk, Ohio.

    Hall’s return to the winner’s circle after nearly 12 long years was nothing short of legendary. Piloting the American Rebel Motorcycle and burning red, white, and blue down the track, he gave fans across the nation a reason to cheer – and another reason to crack open an ice-cold American Rebel Light Beer in celebration.

    “It’s special because you never know if you’re going to get another one. I won twice in 2013, including the U.S. Nationals,” said John Hall. “You know, 12 years goes by and you just realize how hard it is to get one of these.”

    John got the job done in the finals on Sunday in Norwalk, chasing down Richard Gadson with a run of 6.880 at 196.67 mph. Gadson left first with a standout .021 reaction time, but Hall had enough power to slip by at the finish line, recording his first victory since the U.S. Nationals at Indianapolis in 2013.

    “As we head into the Fourth of July weekend, John’s victory couldn’t have come at a more perfect time,” said Andy Ross, CEO of American Rebel. “He represents the heart of our brand – not just in victory lane, but also through his dedication to distribution in Connecticut at Dichello Distributors (dichello.com). We’re proud to be the primary sponsor of John’s motorcycle this season. He’s a key member of our extended family, and we’re proud to celebrate his success alongside America’s birthday.”

    John Hall is President of Dichello Distributors, the distributor for American Rebel Light for 4 counties in Connecticut. Dichello was one of the early distributors to sign a distribution agreement with American Rebel Light (“Rebel Light”) and Dichello’s Connecticut territory is the top per capita sales territory for Rebel Light.

    From Nashville to Norwalk and beyond, the American Rebel lifestyle roars loudest when freedom meets fuel, and John Hall’s win embodies that spirit with full throttle glory. This holiday weekend, raise your glass, wave your flag, and salute a true champion.

    About American Rebel Light Beer

    American Rebel Light is more than just a beer – it’s a celebration of freedom, passion, and quality. Brewed with care and precision, our light beer delivers a refreshing taste that’s perfect for every occasion.

    Since its launch in September 2024, American Rebel Light Beer has rolled out in Tennessee, Connecticut, Kansas, Kentucky, Ohio, Iowa, Missouri, North Carolina, Florida, Indiana and Virginia and is adding new distributors and territories regularly. For more information about the launch events and the availability of American Rebel Beer, please visit americanrebelbeer.com or follow us on our social media platforms (@americanrebelbeer).

    American Rebel Light is a Premium Domestic Light Lager Beer – All Natural, Crisp, Clean and Bold Taste with a Lighter Feel. With approximately 100 calories, 3.2 carbohydrates, and 4.3% alcoholic content per 12 oz serving, American Rebel Light Beer delivers a lighter option for those who love great beer but prefer a more balanced lifestyle. It’s all natural with no added supplements and importantly does not use corn, rice, or other sweeteners typically found in mass produced beers.

    For more information about American Rebel Light Beer follow us on social media @AmericanRebelBeer.

    For more information, visit americanrebelbeer.com.

    About American Rebel Holdings, Inc.

    American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AREB) has operated primarily as a designer, manufacturer and marketer of branded safes and personal security and self-defense products and has recently transitioned into the beverage industry through the introduction of American Rebel Light Beer. The Company also designs and produces branded apparel and accessories. To learn more, visit americanrebelbeer.com. For investor information, visit americanrebel.com/investor-relations.

    Watch the American Rebel Story as told by our CEO Andy Ross visit The American Rebel Story

    Media Inquiries:
    Matt Sheldon
    Matt@Precisionpr.co
    917-280-7329

    American Rebel Holdings, Inc.
    info@americanrebel.com
    ir@americanrebel.com

    American Rebel Beverages, LLC
    Todd Porter, President
    tporter@americanrebelbeer.com

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. American Rebel Holdings, Inc., (NASDAQ: AREB; AREBW) (the “Company,” “American Rebel,” “we,” “our” or “us”) desires to take advantage of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and is including this cautionary statement in connection with this safe harbor legislation. The words “forecasts” “believe,” “may,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “should,” “plan,” “could,” “target,” “potential,” “is likely,” “expect” and similar expressions, as they relate to us, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. We have based these forward-looking statements primarily on our current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends that we believe may affect our financial condition, results of operations, business strategy, and financial needs. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ from those in the forward-looking statements include benefits of our continued sponsorship of high profile events, success and availability of the promotional activities, our ability to effectively execute our business plan, and the Risk Factors contained within our filings with the SEC, including our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024 and our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the three months ended March 31, 2025. Any forward-looking statement made by us herein speaks only as of the date on which it is made. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Russia: IMF Executive Board Completes the Fourth Review Under the Extended Fund Facility with Sri Lanka

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    July 3, 2025

    • The IMF Executive Board completed the Fourth Review under the 48-month Extended Fund Facility with Sri Lanka, providing the country with immediate access to SDR 254 million (about US$350 million) to support Sri Lanka’s economic policies and reforms.
    • Performance under the program has been generally strong with some implementation risks being addressed. Prior actions on restoring cost-recovery electricity pricing for the rest of 2025 and operationalizing automatic electricity tariff adjustment were met. All quantitative targets for end-March 2025, except the stock of expenditure arrears, were met. All structural benchmarks due by end-May 2025 were either met or implemented with delay. 2025Q2 inflation fell below the lower outer band of the Monetary Policy Consultation Clause largely due to energy prices. Debt restructuring is nearly complete.
    • The economic outlook remains positive. However, global trade policy uncertainties pose significant risks to Sri Lanka’s macroeconomic and social stability. If these shocks materialize, the authorities will work closely with staff to assess the impact and formulate policy responses within the contours of the program.

    Washington, DC: On July 1, 2025, the Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) completed the Fourth review under the 48-month Extended Fund Facility (EFF) Arrangement, allowing the authorities to draw SDR254 million (about US$350 million). This brings the total IMF financial support disbursed so far to SDR1.27 billion (about US$1.74 billion).[1]

    The EFF arrangement for Sri Lanka was approved by the Executive Board on March 20, 2023 (see Press Release No. 23/79) in an amount of SDR 2.286 billion (395 percent of quota or about US$3 billion). The program supports Sri Lanka’s efforts to durably restore macroeconomic stability by (i) restoring fiscal and debt sustainability while protecting the vulnerable, (ii) safeguarding price and financial sector stability, (iii) rebuilding external buffers, (iv) strengthening governance and reducing corruption vulnerabilities, and (v) enhancing growth-oriented structural reforms.

    The Executive Board reviewed a report from the Managing Director on the inadvertent provision of inaccurate data by Sri Lanka on the ceiling of the central government’s stock of expenditure arrears. The under-reporting of the arrears stock identified through a detailed analysis of budget line appropriations gave rise to noncomplying purchases and a breach of Sri Lanka’s obligations under Article VIII, Section 5. The authorities have worked openly and closely with IMF staff to provide corrected data and have undertaken several corrective measures related to the clearing and reporting of arrears. They are also committed to improving reporting and data verification practices going forward in line with IMF technical assistance. Based on these actions, the Executive Board approved the authorities’ request for waivers of non-observance.

    The authorities have consented to the publication of the Staff Report prepared for this consultation.[2]

    Following the Executive Board’s discussion, Mr. Kenji Okamura, Deputy Managing Director and Acting Chair, issued the following statement:

    “Sri Lanka’s performance under the Fund-supported arrangement is generally strong with some implementation risks being addressed. Reforms are bearing fruit, with economic growth strengthening, inflation remaining low, reserves accumulating, and fiscal revenues improving. The debt restructuring process is nearing completion. The economic outlook is positive, but downside risks have increased. In case shocks materialize, the authorities should work closely with the Fund to assess the impact and formulate policy responses within the contours of the program. Steadfast program implementation will be crucial.

    “Sustained revenue mobilization is critical to restoring fiscal sustainability and creating fiscal space. Strengthening tax exemption frameworks, boosting tax compliance, and enhancing public financial management to ensure effective arrears management are important. Further improving the coverage and targeting of social support to the vulnerable is also necessary. A smoother execution of capital spending within the fiscal envelope would help foster medium-term growth. The restoration of cost-recovery electricity pricing and the operationalization of automatic electricity tariffs adjustment are commendable and should be maintained to contain fiscal risks.

    “The progress to advance the restructuring of Sri Lanka’s debt is noteworthy. Timely finalization of bilateral agreements with remaining official and commercial creditors is a priority.

    “Monetary policy should continue to prioritize price stability, supported by sustained commitment to eliminate monetary financing and safeguard central bank independence. Greater exchange rate flexibility and gradually phasing out administrative balance of payments measures remain critical to rebuild external buffers and economic resilience.

    “Resolving non-performing loans, strengthening governance and oversight of state-owned banks, and improving the insolvency and resolution frameworks are important to revive credit growth and support private sector development.

    “Structural reforms are crucial to unlock Sri Lanka’s potential. The government should continue to implement governance reforms and advance trade-facilitation reforms to boost export growth and diversification.”

    Following the Executive Board’s discussion, Mr. Kenji Okamura, Deputy Managing Director and Acting Chair, issued the following statement:

    “The Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) reviewed noncomplying purchases made by Sri Lanka under the 2023 Extended Arrangement under the Extended Fund Facility (“EFF”), as well as a breach of obligations under Article VIII, Section 5. The noncomplying purchases arose as a result of the provision of inaccurate information by the authorities on the stock of expenditure arrears at the first, second, and third reviews under the EFF.

    “The inaccuracies in information provided to the IMF were inadvertent and arose because of weaknesses in the timely reporting of arrears by line ministries to the Ministry of Finance, as well as a misunderstanding by the authorities of the definition of “arrears” under the Technical Memorandum of Understanding. 

    “The Executive Board positively considered the authorities’ corrective actions, the fact that arrears repayments will be accommodated within the existing fiscal envelope, and the authorities’ commitment to improving public financial management procedures in line with the new PFM law, to reduce the risk of accruing arrears or inaccurate reporting of information going forward. In view of the above, the Executive Board agreed to grant waivers for the nonobservances of the quantitative performance criterion that gave rise to the noncomplying purchases and decided not to require further action in connection with the breach of obligations under Article VIII, Section 5.”

    Sri Lanka: Selected Economic Indicators 2024-2030

                                                                  

     

    2024

     

    2025

    2026

    2027

    Est.

    Projections

               

    GDP and inflation (in percent)

               

    Real GDP

    5.0

    3.5

    3.1

    3.1

    Inflation (average) 1/

    1.2

    3.3

    5.2

    5.0

    Inflation (end-of-period) 1/

    -1.5

    8.9

    5.2

    5.0

    GDP Deflator growth

    3.8

    3.6

    5.3

    5.1

    Nominal GDP growth

    9.0

    7.1

    8.5

    8.4

     

    Savings and investment (in percent of GDP)

               

    National savings

    25.2

    21.8

    22.2

    22.9

      Government

    -3.2

    -2.0

    -0.8

    -0.1

      Private

    28.4

    23.8

    23.0

    23.0

    National investment

    27.0

    21.8

    22.1

    22.5

      Government

    5.0

    4.3

    4.5

    4.6

      Private

    21.9

    17.4

    17.6

    17.9

    Savings-Investment balance

    -1.8

    0.0

    0.1

    0.4

      Government

    -8.2

    -6.3

    -5.3

    -4.6

      Private

    6.4

    6.4

    5.4

    5.1

     

    Public finance (in percent of GDP)

               

    Revenue and grants

    13.7

    15.0

    15.2

    15.3

    Expenditure

    19.3

    20.5

    19.7

    19.2

    Primary balance

    2.2

    2.3

    2.3

    2.3

    Central government balance

    -5.6

    -5.4

    -4.5

    -3.9

    Central government gross financing needs

    21.9

    22.6

    19.6

    14.9

    Central government debt

    100.5

    105.1

    103.4

    100.2

    Public debt 2/

    105.2

    109.6

    107.4

    103.6

     

    Money and credit (percent change, end of period)

    Reserve money

    15.8

    6.5

    8.5

    8.4

    Broad money

    8.6

    6.5

    8.5

    8.4

    Domestic credit

    4.0

    4.5

    3.0

    3.8

    Credit to private sector

    10.7

    9.4

    9.2

    9.3

    Credit to private sector (adjusted for inflation)

    9.5

    6.1

    4.1

    4.3

    Credit to central government and public corporations

    -1.4

    0.0

    -3.3

    -2.5

     

    Balance of Payments (in millions of U.S. dollars)

    Exports

    12,772

    12,880

    13,490

    14,194

    Imports

    -18,828

    -21,363

    -22,447

    -23,578

    Current account balance

    1,746

    -48

    -77

    -439

    Current account balance (in percent of GDP)

    1.8

    0.0

    -0.1

    -0.4

    Current account balance net of interest (in percent of GDP)

    3.7

    2.1

    2.0

    1.7

    Export value growth (percent)

    7.2

    0.8

    4.7

    5.2

    Import value growth (percent)

    12.0

    13.5

    5.1

    5.0

               

    Gross official reserves (end of period)

               

    In millions of U.S. dollars

    6,122

    7,255

    9,273

    12,974

    In months of prospective imports of goods & services

    3.0

    3.3

    4.0

    5.4

    In percent of ARA composite metric

    50.5

    60.3

    75.5

    100.0

    Usable Gross official reserves (end of period) 3/

               

    In millions of U.S. dollars

    4,686

    7,255

    9,273

    12,974

    In months of prospective imports of goods & services

    2.3

    3.3

    4.0

    5.4

    In percent of ARA composite metric

    38.6

    60.3

    75.5

    100.0

    External debt (public and private)

    In billions of U.S. dollars

    53.9

    54.6

    56.3

    59.9

    As a percent of GDP

    54.4

    55.1

    58.6

    59.4

     

    Memorandum items:

    Nominal GDP (in billions of rupees)

    29,899

    32,036

    34,754

    37,664

    Exchange Rate (period average)

    302.0

    Exchange Rate (end of period)

    293.0

    Sources: Data provided by the Sri Lankan authorities; and IMF staff estimates.

    1/ Colombo CPI.

    2/ Comprising central government debt, publicly guaranteed debt, and CBSL external liabilities (i.e., Fund credit outstanding and international currency swap arrangements). The debt statistics currently assume the external debt restructuring to have been completed at end 2023.

    3/ Excluding PBOC swap ($1.4bn in 2022) which becomes usable once GIR rise above 3 months of previous year’s import cover.

                                     

    [1] SDR figures are converted at the market rate of U.S. dollar per SDR on the day of the Board approval.

    [2] Under the IMF’s Articles of Agreement, publication of documents that pertain to member countries is voluntary and requires the member consent. The staff report will be shortly published on the www.imf.org/srilanka page.

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Randa Elnagar

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

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/07/02/pr24235-sri-lanka-imf-executive-board-completes-the-fourth-review-under-the-eff

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Change of His Majesty’s Ambassador to Latvia: Kathy Leach

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Change of His Majesty’s Ambassador to Latvia: Kathy Leach

    Ms Kathy Leach has been appointed His Majesty’s Ambassador to the Republic of Latvia in succession to Mr Paul Brummell CMG, who will be transferring to another Diplomatic Service appointment. Ms Leach will take up her appointment during August 2025.

    Ms Kathy Leach

    Curriculum vitae           

    Full name: Kathy Leach

    Date Role
    2021 to present Astana, His Majesty’s Ambassador
    2019 to 2020 FCDO, Deputy Director, Constitution and Devolution, Europe Directorate
    2015 to 2018 FCO, Head then Deputy Director, Policy Unit, Strategy Directorate
    2012 to 2015 Yerevan, Her Majesty’s Ambassador
    2007 to 2011 Tokyo, Head, Energy and Environment Team
    2005 FCO, Deputy Head, Passport and Documentary Services, Consular
    2001 to 2004 Moscow, First Secretary Security Policy, then Internal Political
    2000 to 2001 FCO, Desk Officer, EU Trade and Development Policy, Europe Directorate
    2000 Joined FCO

    Media enquiries

    Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

    Telephone 020 7008 3100

    Email the FCDO Newsdesk (monitored 24 hours a day) in the first instance, and we will respond as soon as possible.

    Updates to this page

    Published 3 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Spaza Shop Support Fund campaign goes to Mpumalanga

    Source: Government of South Africa

    Thursday, July 3, 2025

    The national awareness campaign on the Spaza Shop Support Fund is today in Volksrust, Mpumalanga.

    Township-based entrepreneurs in the area will have an opportunity to engage directly with government and its partners on how to access vital support to grow and sustain their businesses. 

    Led by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) and the Department of Small Business Development (DSBD), the ongoing campaign forms part of a national drive to raise awareness about available support for spaza shops and township convenience stores. It aims to close information gaps and bring services closer to communities.

    Following successful stops in KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, North West, the Free State, and the Northern Cape, this leg targets entrepreneurs and spaza shop owners in the Dr. Pixley Ka Isaka Ka Seme Local Municipality and surrounding areas, who are often underserved but play a vital role in the local economy.

    At the centre of the campaign is the R500 million Spaza Shop Support Fund, launched by Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Parks Tau and Minister of Small Business Development, Stella Ndabeni, in April 2025. 

    The fund is administered by the Small Enterprise Development and Finance Agency (SEDFA) and the National Empowerment Fund (NEF) agencies of the DSBD and the dtic, respectively.

    Attendees in Volksrust will receive detailed guidance on how to apply for financial and non-financial assistance, including:

    • Access to affordable stock through delivery partners.
    • Infrastructure upgrades such as shelving, refrigeration and security.
    • Point-of-sale devices.
    • Business training on compliance, digital literacy, credit health and food safety.
    • Market access support through partnerships with black industrialists and local manufacturers.

    “The initiative aims to boost the competitiveness of township businesses and foster inclusive economic participation by bringing more informal retailers into the broader retail value chain,” the dtic said in a statement. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa

  • Trump visits Iowa to kick off America’s 250th anniversary, reassure farmers on trade

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    President Donald Trump travels to Iowa on Thursday to kick off celebrations marking America’s 250th anniversary next year and to tout recent trade and legislative actions to heartland voters who helped propel his return to the White House.

    Trump will deliver a campaign-style speech at the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines, a familiar stop for presidential candidates in the early primary state. Trump won Iowa’s 2024 Republican caucuses by a historically large margin and carried the state by 13 percentage points in the general election.

    His latest visit comes ahead of a Friday deadline he set for Congress to pass his sweeping tax and spending legislation, a cornerstone of his second-term domestic agenda that touches everything from immigration to energy policy.

    In remarks mixing patriotism and policy, Trump will aim to reassure Iowa’s voters that his administration is defending their interests and delivering tangible results, according to a person with knowledge of the speech.

    Trump’s trade policies have whipsawed agricultural communities in Iowa, creating economic uncertainty and testing loyalties. Iowa farmers have been hit hard, especially with China’s retaliatory tariffs slashing soybean exports and prices.

    In a Truth Social post on Tuesday announcing his trip, Trump called Iowa “one of my favorite places in the world.”

    “I’ll also tell you some of the GREAT things I’ve already done on Trade, especially as it relates to Farmers. You are going to be very happy with what I say,” Trump said.

    At recent Republican town halls in Iowa, tensions flared as farmers and constituents pressed congressional leaders, including Republican Senator Chuck Grassley, to push back against Trump’s retaliatory tariffs.

    Some Republicans also worry that deep cuts to the Medicaid health program in their sweeping tax bill will hurt the party’s prospects in the 2026 midterm elections.

    Trump has made several memorable trips to the Iowa State Fairgrounds. In 2015, the reality TV star and presidential candidate gave children rides on his personal helicopter as he aimed to overshadow Democratic rival Hillary Clinton.

    In 2023, Trump’s private jet buzzed low over the crowds in another flashy power move, stealing the spotlight from primary rival Ron DeSantis as he campaigned on the ground below.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI: Axi launches ‘Trading Places’ campaign with Manchester City Women stars

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SYDNEY, July 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Leading online FX and CFD broker Axi has launched their new campaign, ‘Trading Places’ with Manchester City Women. Hosted by Sports Broadcaster and Manchester City presenter, Natalie Pike, the ‘Trading Places’ campaign features Man City Women stars as they step out of their comfort zones, and compete against one another in new roles.

    Axi is the Official Online Trading Partner of Manchester City since 2020, extending their contract in 2023 to include Manchester City Women. Last year, the broker launched ‘The Mentality Edge’, their first player activation with Manchester City Women. This year, Manchester City Women stars Katie Startup, Leila Ouahabi, and Naomi Layzell compete in a head-to-head showdown across a series of challenges such as tower building and cake decorating.

    Hannah Hill, Head of Brand and Sponsorship at Axi, expressed her enthusiasm for their new campaign, stating, “As with every year, working with the Man City Women players was really exciting. Their natural chemistry, both on and off the pitch, brings incredible energy to everything we create together. Like Axi, Man City Women always push for that extra edge – and that shared commitment to excellence makes for a great partnership.

    In 2025, Axi has had a busy year as the company remains committed to its sponsorship portfolio. In March, the broker proudly launched their ‘Four Years’ campaign – a celebration of four years of collaboration and shared achievements with Manchester City. Further to the above, Axi is also the Official LATAM Online Trading Partner of LaLiga club, Girona FC, and the Official Online Trading Partner of Brazilian club, Esporte Clube Bahia.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1LcNe7N7pG0&list=PLd10IG9ySzExfUBmpEOojnwf5huwQpsBn&pp=gAQB

    About Axi

    Axi is a global online FX and CFD trading brand, with thousands of customers in 100+ countries worldwide. Axi offers CFDs for several asset classes including Forex, Shares, Gold, Oil, Coffee, and more.

    For more information or additional comments from Axi, please contact: mediaenquiries@axi.com

    Promoted by AxiTrader Ltd. OTC derivatives carry a high risk of investment loss. Not available to AU, NZ, UK & EU residents. Not intended as investment advice.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/15efa0ec-f975-4882-9d0d-f1e0b7fa9486

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Cameroon’s hidden green treasures unveiled in a book

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    World news story

    Cameroon’s hidden green treasures unveiled in a book

    The vulnerability of Cameroon’s rich plant biodiversity, with over 850 endangered species is highlighted in the book “Important Plant Areas of Cameroon”.

    A copy of the book, ‘Important Plant Areas of Cameroon’ .

    In a powerful moment for conservation, the book “Important Plant Areas of Cameroon” was officially launched on 18 June during UK – Cameroon Climate Week. This groundbreaking publication reveals a stunning yet sobering reality: over 850 endangered plant species are spread across 49 critical biodiversity hotspots in Cameroon.

    Co-authored by experts from Cameroon’s Institute of Agricultural Research for Development (IRAD) National Herbarium, and the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, the book positions Cameroon as Africa’s most tropically diverse nation. From lush rainforests to arid deserts, the country’s ecosystems are as varied as they are vital. Yet, this rich biodiversity faces mounting threats. 10% of Cameroon’s plant species are now endangered, and the country holds the highest number of threatened trees on the continent.

    The culprits? Expanding mining operations, aggressive logging, and the relentless spread of palm oil plantations are rapidly eroding Cameroon’s forests. These activities not only endanger plant life but also jeopardize the ecological balance of the entire Congo Basin.

    British High Commissioner Matt Woods used the book’s launch to spotlight Cameroon’s critical role in global climate discussions. He urged the international community to amplify Cameroon’s voice at major forums like COP30 and called for stronger global support to safeguard the Congo Basin’s irreplaceable biodiversity.

    Speaking during the book launch, the representative of Royal Botanical Gardens in Kew, Prof. Philip Stevenson said:

    It’s been a fantastic week of new collaboration. We’ve been working with IRAD National Herbarium and developing opportunities to extend our reach and do more work here in Cameroon.

    This book is more than a catalogue of rare plants; it is a call to action. As the world grapples with climate change and biodiversity loss, Cameroon’s green treasures remind us of what’s at stake and what we still have the power to protect.

    Updates to this page

    Published 3 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Ghana and India: Narendra Modi’s visit rekindles historical ties

    Source: The Conversation – Africa (2) – By Pius Siakwah, Senior Research Fellow, Institute of African Studies, University of Ghana

    Narendra Modi’s trip to Ghana in July 2025, part of a five-nation visit, is the first by an Indian prime minister in over 30 years. The two countries’ relationship goes back more than half a century to when India helped the newly independent Ghana set up its intelligence agencies. Ghana is also home to several large Indian-owned manufacturing and trading companies. International relations scholar Pius Siakwah unpacks the context of the visit.

    What is the background to Ghana and India’s relationship?

    It can be traced to links between Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana’s first president, and his Indian counterpart, Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, in 1957. It is not surprising that the Indian High Commission is located near the seat of the Ghana government, Jubilee House.

    Nkrumah and Nehru were co-founders of the Non-Aligned Movement, a group of states not formally aligned with major power blocs during the cold war. Its principles focused on respect for sovereignty, neutrality, non-interference, and peaceful dispute resolution. It was also a strong voice against the neo-colonial ambitions of some of the large powers.

    The movement emerged in the wave of decolonisation after the second world war. It held its first conference in 1961 under the leadership of Josip Bros Tito (Yugoslavia), Gamal Abdel Nasser (Egypt) and Sukarno (Indonesia) as well as Nehru and Nkrumah.

    The relationship between Ghana and India seemingly went into decline after the overthrow of Nkrumah in 1966, coinciding with the decline of Indian presence in global geopolitics.

    In 2002, President John Kufuor re-energised India-Ghana relations. This led to the Indian government’s financial support in the construction of Ghana’s seat of government in 2008.

    Though the concept of the Non-Aligned Movement has faded this century, its principles have crystallised into south-south cooperation. This is the exchange of knowledge, skills, resources and technologies among regions in the developing world.

    South-south cooperation has fuelled India-Ghana relations. Modi’s diplomatic efforts since 2014 have sought to relaunch India’s presence in Africa.

    In recent times, India has engaged Africa through the India–Africa Forum Summit. The first summit was held in 2008 in New Delhi with 14 countries from Africa. The largest one was held in 2015, while the fourth was postponed in 2020 due to COVID-19. The summit has led to 50,000 scholarships, a focus on renewable energy through the International Solar Alliance and an expansion of the Pan-African e-Network to bridge healthcare and educational gaps. Development projects are financed through India’s EXIM Bank.

    India is now one of Ghana’s major trading partners, importing primary products like minerals, while exporting manufactured products such as pharmaceuticals, transport and agricultural machinery. The Ghana-India Trade Advisory Chamber was established in 2018 for socio-economic exchange.

    Modi’s visit supports the strengthening of economic and defence ties.

    The bilateral trade between India and Ghana moved from US$1 billion in 2011-12 to US$4.5 billion in 2018-19. It then dipped to US$2.2 billion in 2020-21 due to COVID. By 2023, bilateral trade amounted to around US$3.3 billion, making India the third-largest export and import partner behind China and Switzerland.

    Indian companies have invested in over 700 projects in Ghana. These include B5 Plus, a leading iron and steel manufacturer, and Melcom, Ghana’s largest supermarket chain.

    India is also one of the leading sources of foreign direct investment to Ghana. Indian companies had invested over US$2 billion in Ghana by 2021, according to the Ghana Investment Promotion Center.

    What are the key areas of interest?

    The key areas of collaboration are economic, particularly:

    • energy

    • infrastructure (for example, construction of the Tema to Mpakadan railway line)

    • defence

    • technology

    • pharmaceuticals

    • agriculture (agro-processing, mechanisation and irrigation systems)

    • industrial (light manufacturing).

    What’s the bigger picture?

    Modi’s visit is part of a broader visit to strengthen bilateral ties and a follow-up to the Brics Summit, July 2025 in Brazil. Thus, whereas South Africa is often seen as the gateway to Africa, Ghana is becoming the opening to west Africa.

    Modi’s visit can be viewed in several ways.

    First, India as a neo-colonialist. Some commentators see India’s presence as just a continuation of exploitative relations. This manifests in financial and agricultural exploitation and land grabbing.

    Second, India as smart influencer. This is where the country adopts a low profile but benefits from soft power, linguistic, cultural and historical advantages, and good relationships at various societal and governmental levels.

    Third, India as a perennial underdog. India has less funds, underdeveloped communications, limited diplomatic capacity, little soft power advantage, and an underwhelming media presence compared to China. China is able to project its power in Africa through project financing and loans, visible diplomatic presence with visits and media coverage in Ghana. Some of the coverage of Chinese activities in Ghana is negative – illegal mining (galamsey) is an example. India benefits from limited negative media presence but its contributions in areas of pharmaceuticals and infrastructure don’t get attention.

    Modi will want his visit to build on ideas of south-south cooperation, soft power and smart operating. He’ll want to refute notions that India is a perennial underdog or a neo-colonialist in a new scramble for Africa.

    In 2025, Ghana has to navigate a complex geopolitical space.

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

    ref. Ghana and India: Narendra Modi’s visit rekindles historical ties – https://theconversation.com/ghana-and-india-narendra-modis-visit-rekindles-historical-ties-260281

    MIL OSI

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Cheers as Argentina grants Scotch Whisky historic protection

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 2

    Press release

    Cheers as Argentina grants Scotch Whisky historic protection

    Scotch Whisky becomes the first international product to gain legal protection in Argentina as a Geographical Indication

    Argentina has given Scotch Whisky its seal of approval as the first ever international product to receive Geographical Indication (GI) status in the country.

    The protection recognises what makes a dram of Scotch truly special – centuries of craftsmanship, distinctive production methods, and that unmistakable Scottish character that can’t be replicated anywhere else.

    This legal protection ensures products labelled as Scotch Whisky are genuine and meet strict production standards. This will help tackle counterfeit products, giving shoppers confidence they are buying an authentic product and distillers reassurance to expand their presence in a market without risk of imitation products undermining their reputation.

    This also marks the first international product to gain legal protection in Argentina, highlighting the increasing global demand for authentic British products overseas. British food and drink exports reached record levels in 2024, with GI products accounting for approximately 25% of all UK food and drink exports and an estimated annual value exceeding £6 billion.

    Daniel Zeichner, Minister for Food Security and Rural Affairs, said:

    Argentina’s legal protection of Scotch Whisky marks another triumph for this world-class British export.

    In just six months we’ve driven a breakthrough trade agreement with India while securing legal protections for dozens of beloved British products across the globe – from the markets of São Paulo to the streets of Tokyo.   

    This government won’t stop here. We’re unlocking doors for UK exporters worldwide, putting British products on more shelves and tables – delivering real economic growth as part of our Plan for Change.

    Trade Minister Douglas Alexander said:

    Scotch Whisky is the first foreign product to receive special protection in Argentina which is testament to not only the strength of our trade ties with Argentina, but the prestige and reach of Scotland’s world-renowned product.

    This is another win for an industry already bolstered by our deal with India which slashes whisky tariffs by half immediately and then down even further in the years to come, demonstrating our action to boost Scotland’s businesses and delivering economic growth under the Plan for Change.

    Scottish Secretary Ian Murray said:

    There is no substitute for authentic Scotch Whisky and it’s fantastic news that collaborative work between the UK Government and Scotch Whisky Association has convinced the Argentine authorities to give our national drink – and one of our biggest exports – the protection it deserves.

    Opening up new markets and expanding existing ones for our producers is key to growing the economy and the UK Government’s Plan for Change. Scotland’s food and drink industry and our Brand Scotland campaign will play an important part in that. This is excellent news to all the whisky producers who put Scotland on the global stage with our world-famous spirit. Salud!

    The recognition comes just months after securing protected status for 39 additional British specialities in Japan and a landmark trade deal with India which slashed whisky tariffs by 50%, creating substantial commercial opportunities for UK businesses overseas under the government’s Plan for Change.

    Updates to this page

    Published 3 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: Ghana and India: Narendra Modi’s visit rekindles historical ties

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Pius Siakwah, Senior Research Fellow, Institute of African Studies, University of Ghana

    Narendra Modi’s trip to Ghana in July 2025, part of a five-nation visit, is the first by an Indian prime minister in over 30 years. The two countries’ relationship goes back more than half a century to when India helped the newly independent Ghana set up its intelligence agencies. Ghana is also home to several large Indian-owned manufacturing and trading companies. International relations scholar Pius Siakwah unpacks the context of the visit.

    What is the background to Ghana and India’s relationship?

    It can be traced to links between Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana’s first president, and his Indian counterpart, Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, in 1957. It is not surprising that the Indian High Commission is located near the seat of the Ghana government, Jubilee House.

    Nkrumah and Nehru were co-founders of the Non-Aligned Movement, a group of states not formally aligned with major power blocs during the cold war. Its principles focused on respect for sovereignty, neutrality, non-interference, and peaceful dispute resolution. It was also a strong voice against the neo-colonial ambitions of some of the large powers.

    The movement emerged in the wave of decolonisation after the second world war. It held its first conference in 1961 under the leadership of Josip Bros Tito (Yugoslavia), Gamal Abdel Nasser (Egypt) and Sukarno (Indonesia) as well as Nehru and Nkrumah.

    The relationship between Ghana and India seemingly went into decline after the overthrow of Nkrumah in 1966, coinciding with the decline of Indian presence in global geopolitics.

    In 2002, President John Kufuor re-energised India-Ghana relations. This led to the Indian government’s financial support in the construction of Ghana’s seat of government in 2008.

    Though the concept of the Non-Aligned Movement has faded this century, its principles have crystallised into south-south cooperation. This is the exchange of knowledge, skills, resources and technologies among regions in the developing world.

    South-south cooperation has fuelled India-Ghana relations. Modi’s diplomatic efforts since 2014 have sought to relaunch India’s presence in Africa.

    In recent times, India has engaged Africa through the India–Africa Forum Summit. The first summit was held in 2008 in New Delhi with 14 countries from Africa. The largest one was held in 2015, while the fourth was postponed in 2020 due to COVID-19. The summit has led to 50,000 scholarships, a focus on renewable energy through the International Solar Alliance and an expansion of the Pan-African e-Network to bridge healthcare and educational gaps. Development projects are financed through India’s EXIM Bank.

    India is now one of Ghana’s major trading partners, importing primary products like minerals, while exporting manufactured products such as pharmaceuticals, transport and agricultural machinery. The Ghana-India Trade Advisory Chamber was established in 2018 for socio-economic exchange.

    Modi’s visit supports the strengthening of economic and defence ties.

    The bilateral trade between India and Ghana moved from US$1 billion in 2011-12 to US$4.5 billion in 2018-19. It then dipped to US$2.2 billion in 2020-21 due to COVID. By 2023, bilateral trade amounted to around US$3.3 billion, making India the third-largest export and import partner behind China and Switzerland.

    Indian companies have invested in over 700 projects in Ghana. These include B5 Plus, a leading iron and steel manufacturer, and Melcom, Ghana’s largest supermarket chain.

    India is also one of the leading sources of foreign direct investment to Ghana. Indian companies had invested over US$2 billion in Ghana by 2021, according to the Ghana Investment Promotion Center.

    What are the key areas of interest?

    The key areas of collaboration are economic, particularly:

    • energy

    • infrastructure (for example, construction of the Tema to Mpakadan railway line)

    • defence

    • technology

    • pharmaceuticals

    • agriculture (agro-processing, mechanisation and irrigation systems)

    • industrial (light manufacturing).

    What’s the bigger picture?

    Modi’s visit is part of a broader visit to strengthen bilateral ties and a follow-up to the Brics Summit, July 2025 in Brazil. Thus, whereas South Africa is often seen as the gateway to Africa, Ghana is becoming the opening to west Africa.

    Modi’s visit can be viewed in several ways.

    First, India as a neo-colonialist. Some commentators see India’s presence as just a continuation of exploitative relations. This manifests in financial and agricultural exploitation and land grabbing.

    Second, India as smart influencer. This is where the country adopts a low profile but benefits from soft power, linguistic, cultural and historical advantages, and good relationships at various societal and governmental levels.

    Third, India as a perennial underdog. India has less funds, underdeveloped communications, limited diplomatic capacity, little soft power advantage, and an underwhelming media presence compared to China. China is able to project its power in Africa through project financing and loans, visible diplomatic presence with visits and media coverage in Ghana. Some of the coverage of Chinese activities in Ghana is negative – illegal mining (galamsey) is an example. India benefits from limited negative media presence but its contributions in areas of pharmaceuticals and infrastructure don’t get attention.

    Modi will want his visit to build on ideas of south-south cooperation, soft power and smart operating. He’ll want to refute notions that India is a perennial underdog or a neo-colonialist in a new scramble for Africa.

    In 2025, Ghana has to navigate a complex geopolitical space.

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

    ref. Ghana and India: Narendra Modi’s visit rekindles historical ties – https://theconversation.com/ghana-and-india-narendra-modis-visit-rekindles-historical-ties-260281

    MIL OSI Analysis

  • MIL-OSI Banking: BSTDB Supports Inclusive and Sustainable Growth in Moldova

    Source: Black Sea Trade and Development Bank

    Press Release | 03-Jul-2025

    Loan to support micro and small enterprises, green investments, and women-led businesses

    In a move to boost inclusive and sustainable development across Moldova, the Black Sea Trade and Development Bank (BSTDB) has extended a EUR 3 million Combined MSME, Green and Gender Equality Credit Line to Prime Capital, BSTDB existing partner since 2021. The loan will further deepen the partnership, including by diversification of use of proceeds to facilitate access to finance for important economic purposes.  

    BSTDB financing will strengthen Prime Capital’s capacity to support micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs)—a backbone of the Moldovan economy and will also target green investments and women-led businesses, areas that are increasingly vital for long-term resilience and social equity.

    The funds will be channeled into Prime Capital’s dedicated programmes that focus on energy efficiency and women in business, helping scale up initiatives that are already making an impact at domestic level. By strengthening these targeted initiatives, the BSTDB contributes to the broader goals of climate resilience, social equity, and regional development.

    Commenting on the deal, Dr. Serhat Köksal, President, said: “This financing reflects our strong commitment to support micro, small and medium entrepreneurs, fostering greater opportunities for women-led businesses, and accelerating the green transition. By partnering with Prime Capital, we are helping ensure that capital reaches those who can drive inclusive and sustainable growth in Moldova and bolster economic resilience across the Black Sea Region.”

    “We are proud to strengthen our partnership with the Black Sea Trade and Development Bank through this expanded facility, which will help us deliver on our mission to empower Moldova’s entrepreneurs—especially women and those championing green innovation. This funding is not only timely but also strategic, as it enables us to extend credit to areas with the greatest transformative potential: MSMEs, sustainable energy, and gender-inclusive business growth. By aligning with BSTDB’s regional development goals, we are helping build a more resilient, inclusive, and future-ready Moldovan economy.” – said Carmina Vicol, CEO of Prime Capital.

     

    OCN Prime Capital SRL is one of the leading microfinance companies in Moldova. As of end-September 2024, Prime Capital reported total assets of USD 21.7 million and total equity of USD 14.3 million with capitalization ratio of 66%. Prime Capital is the 11th largest microfinance company in Moldova (out of 118 non-bank financial institutions). The Company’s head office and microlending office are based in Chisinau, two branches are located in the north and south of the country and it has 52 employees.

     

    The Black Sea Trade and Development Bank (BSTDB) is an international financial institution established by Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bulgaria, Georgia, Greece, Moldova, Romania, Russia, Türkiye, and Ukraine. The BSTDB headquarters are in Thessaloniki, Greece. BSTDB supports economic development and regional cooperation by providing loans, credit lines, equity and guarantees for projects and trade financing in the public and private sectors in its member countries. The authorized capital of the Bank is EUR 3.45 billion. For information on BSTDB, visit www.bstdb.org.

     

    Contact: Haroula Christodoulou

    : @BSTDB

    MIL OSI Global Banks

  • MIL-OSI Banking: BSTDB Supports Inclusive and Sustainable Growth in Moldova

    Source: Black Sea Trade and Development Bank

    Press Release | 03-Jul-2025

    Loan to support micro and small enterprises, green investments, and women-led businesses

    In a move to boost inclusive and sustainable development across Moldova, the Black Sea Trade and Development Bank (BSTDB) has extended a EUR 3 million Combined MSME, Green and Gender Equality Credit Line to Prime Capital, BSTDB existing partner since 2021. The loan will further deepen the partnership, including by diversification of use of proceeds to facilitate access to finance for important economic purposes.  

    BSTDB financing will strengthen Prime Capital’s capacity to support micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs)—a backbone of the Moldovan economy and will also target green investments and women-led businesses, areas that are increasingly vital for long-term resilience and social equity.

    The funds will be channeled into Prime Capital’s dedicated programmes that focus on energy efficiency and women in business, helping scale up initiatives that are already making an impact at domestic level. By strengthening these targeted initiatives, the BSTDB contributes to the broader goals of climate resilience, social equity, and regional development.

    Commenting on the deal, Dr. Serhat Köksal, President, said: “This financing reflects our strong commitment to support micro, small and medium entrepreneurs, fostering greater opportunities for women-led businesses, and accelerating the green transition. By partnering with Prime Capital, we are helping ensure that capital reaches those who can drive inclusive and sustainable growth in Moldova and bolster economic resilience across the Black Sea Region.”

    “We are proud to strengthen our partnership with the Black Sea Trade and Development Bank through this expanded facility, which will help us deliver on our mission to empower Moldova’s entrepreneurs—especially women and those championing green innovation. This funding is not only timely but also strategic, as it enables us to extend credit to areas with the greatest transformative potential: MSMEs, sustainable energy, and gender-inclusive business growth. By aligning with BSTDB’s regional development goals, we are helping build a more resilient, inclusive, and future-ready Moldovan economy.” – said Carmina Vicol, CEO of Prime Capital.

     

    OCN Prime Capital SRL is one of the leading microfinance companies in Moldova. As of end-September 2024, Prime Capital reported total assets of USD 21.7 million and total equity of USD 14.3 million with capitalization ratio of 66%. Prime Capital is the 11th largest microfinance company in Moldova (out of 118 non-bank financial institutions). The Company’s head office and microlending office are based in Chisinau, two branches are located in the north and south of the country and it has 52 employees.

     

    The Black Sea Trade and Development Bank (BSTDB) is an international financial institution established by Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bulgaria, Georgia, Greece, Moldova, Romania, Russia, Türkiye, and Ukraine. The BSTDB headquarters are in Thessaloniki, Greece. BSTDB supports economic development and regional cooperation by providing loans, credit lines, equity and guarantees for projects and trade financing in the public and private sectors in its member countries. The authorized capital of the Bank is EUR 3.45 billion. For information on BSTDB, visit www.bstdb.org.

     

    Contact: Haroula Christodoulou

    : @BSTDB

    MIL OSI Global Banks

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Ghana formally accepts WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies

    Source: WTO

    Headline: Ghana formally accepts WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies

    DG Okonjo-Iweala said: “I congratulate Ghana on joining forces with other WTO members to bring the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies closer to entry into force. This collective effort to curb harmful fisheries subsidies puts us on the right track to begin restoring our oceans’ health and improve the livelihoods of millions of people. Only 8 acceptances more to go!”
    Ambassador Antwi said: “Ghana is pleased to be depositing its instrument of acceptance for the WTO fisheries agreement. We are confident that, with our ratification of this crucial agreement, Ghana is in a much better position to contribute to environmental sustainability, in line with the mandate of United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 14.6.”
    Formal acceptances from two-thirds of WTO members are required for the Agreement to enter into force — representing 111 members. The list of the 103 WTO members which have deposited their instruments of acceptance with the WTO is available here.
    At the WTO’s 12th Ministerial Conference (MC12) held in Geneva in June 2022, ministers adopted by consensus the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies, setting new, binding, multilateral rules to curb harmful fisheries subsidies. The Agreement prohibits subsidies for illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing, for fishing overfished stocks, and for fishing on the unregulated high seas.
    Ministers also recognized the needs of developing economies and least-developed countries by establishing a fund to provide technical assistance and capacity-building to help governments that have formally accepted the Agreement to implement the new obligations.
    The Fish Fund launched a Call for Proposals on 6 June, inviting developing and least-developed country (LDC) members that have ratified the Agreement to submit requests for project grants aimed at helping them implement the Agreement. Information on the WTO Fish Fund application portal can be found here.
    WTO members also agreed at MC12 to continue negotiating on remaining fisheries subsidies issues. The objective is to find consensus on additional provisions to further strengthen the disciplines on fisheries subsidies.
    Information for members on how to accept the Protocol of Amendment is available here.

    Share

    MIL OSI Global Banks

  • MIL-OSI Russia: What events will take place as part of “Summer in Moscow” in the coming days

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    A performance at the rollerdrome, water painting, evening readings and Moscow Sports Day – this and much more awaits guests of the Summer in Moscow project this week. We tell you where to spend time usefully and what to do at city venues from July 4 to 6.

    Rock, Paper, Scissors and Beauty Trucks

    A large-scale championship is taking place at city venues “Rock, Paper, Scissors”. Every day, children and adults can compete on Tverskoy Boulevard and in the west of the capital. On July 4, participants are expected on Aviatorov Street (building 5), and on July 5 – on Bolshaya Filevskaya Street (building 9) in the Fili Children’s Park. The sites will be open from 15:00 to 20:00.

    The final of the competition in the Western Administrative District will take place on July 6 at the address: Michurinsky Prospekt, Olympic Village, Building 4. Participation is free, registration is not required.

    From July 4 to 6, there will be a service for city residents Summer Club “Moscow”on Tverskoy Boulevard. There will be two pop-up stores with domestic clothing and jewelry brands and three beauty trucks. Gifts, surprises, raffles and master classes have been prepared for guests.

    Family Etiquette Rules and Lectures on Trends

    The department store of Russian designers “Leto” on Revolution Square will also tell about care, beauty and fashion. Everyone will be able not only to try on clothes they like and update their wardrobe, but also to listen to lectures, take part in master classes and even watch performances.

    On July 5 from 13:00 to 14:30 there will be a lecture “How Unusual 19th Century Trends Were Transformed into Tableware”. From asparagus tongs to mustache cups”, it will be read by the collector of antique and vintage tableware, founder of the cultural space Ekaterina Maslova. And at 15:00 she will hold a master class “Summer table setting using antique tableware”. Admission is free.

    A lecture will be held on July 6 at 15:00 “Rules of Family Etiquette: From Home Improvement to Table Setting”. It will be conducted by etiquette expert Yulia Ryabukhina. The master class will be held at 17:00 “Summer bookmark using herbarium technique”, and at 19:00 guests are invited to watch a mini-performance “Dandelion Wine”. Free admission.

    Salsa, bachata and 3D applique

    Open dance master classes for the whole family will be held on Chistoprudny Boulevard. On weekends, there will also be a children’s and youth tournament “Summer in Moscow. Dances”, where anyone can become a spectator.

    July 4 at 18:00 on the big stage Chistoprudny Boulevarda master class of the dance school “TanzBaza” will take place, and an hour later you can learn bachata there. On the middle stage at 19:00 they will teach salsa. On July 5 from 12:00 to 18:00 on the big stage of Chistoprudny Boulevard there will be a qualifying round of children’s dance competitions, and at 19:00 guests are invited to a master class in modern swing. At the same time, you can learn salsa on the middle stage.

    On July 6 at 19:00 on the big stage there will be a master class “Salsa Casino”, dance lessons will also be held on the middle stage at 17:00 and at 19:00. Admission is free.

    And in art studio on Strastnoy Boulevard In the coming days, they will teach drawing. On July 4 at 15:00 and 19:00, there will be lessons on creating a painting using the dot mosaic technique, at 16:00 — an interior panel using the pebble mosaic technique, at 17:00 — a three-dimensional painting using the 3D applique technique, at 18:00 — paintings in a geometric style.

    On July 5 at 14:00 there will be a master class “Bright Colors” on drawing in a geometric style, at 15:00 – “Gems” on 3D applique, at 16:00 and 19:00 you can depict a summer day using the dot mosaic technique, and at 17:00 – a blooming garden using the pebble mosaic technique. The duration of each lesson is 45 minutes. Guests over five years old are invited to participate. Admission is free.

    Day and Night of Moscow Sports

    On July 5, Muscovites will experience large-scale sports events. From 11:00 to 21:00, the event will take place “Moscow Sports Day”, and from 20:00 to 23:00 – “Moscow Sports Night”.

    The Luzhniki Olympic Complex will feature more than 20 themed zones. There will be demonstration performances, master classes, tournaments, as well as a mass stretching training session conducted by two-time bronze medalist of the World Gymnastics Championships Samira Mustafayeva. Throughout the festival, a concert with performances by famous artists will be held on the main stage.

    After 8:00 pm, the celebration will continue on the streets of the capital. The “Moscow Sports Night” will cover many venues in the central part of the city. 60 cycling machines will be installed on Pushkinskaya Square, where mass training sessions will take place accompanied by DJ sets. Flash tournaments and streetball master classes for festival visitors will be held on Tverskaya Street (near the Izvestia newspaper building). In Klimentovsky Lane, there will be an area with a ramp and a pump track for scooter and skateboard riding for children and adults.

    On Pyatnitskaya Street you can see demonstration performances of rope skipping. Myasnitskaya Street (the square near the Et Cetera Theatre) will become the center of table tennis, where every visitor will be able to participate or watch the competitions.

    In addition, a breakdance area will open on Arbat, where team and individual competitions will take place, as well as demonstration performances by professionals. On Nikolskaya Street, everyone will be able to play table football and hockey, and on Bolshaya Nikitskaya Street (the square near the TASS building) they will be able to try to assemble a puzzle for speed.

    Admission is free, but some events may require a membership. pre-registration.

    Bouquet of dried flowers, cycle and disco with DJs

    An interesting program has also been prepared at the Green Market of the Made in Moscow project on Bolotnaya Square. On July 5 from 13:00 to 18:00 you can learn how to weave for free decorative napkin.

    There is also a festival taking place on Bolotnaya Square “Youth Point”. Its program includes the event “The Path to Yourself”, dedicated to psychology. It will be held at the “Sport” site from 15:00 to 17:30. In addition, from 14:30 to 17:30 at the “Development” site there will be a master class on creating a memorable photo with floral inserts. At 18:00 there will be a creative painting lesson, where participants will learn to draw pictures on wooden blanks.

    At the “Creative” site, from 2:30 pm to 5:30 pm, there will be a master class on creating bouquets of dried flowers, and at 6:00 pm you can join a class on customizing T-shirts.

    Events will also take place at the rollerdrome. At 13:00, you are invited to cycle — a class on exercise bikes. And at 14:00, everyone is welcome to a dance workout on the veranda. From 16:00 to 20:00, you can join mini-dates.

    Free skating will be organized at the rollerdrome from 10:00 to 11:45, and from 15:00 to 20:10 the performances “Memory Diary” by the ice theater team under the direction of Petr Chernyshev and Tatyana Navka will be shown. At 20:00 a disco with DJs will begin.

    On July 6 from 13:00 to 16:00 in the “Green Market” they will be painting candles and plaster products, and at 17:00 you can try to cook perfumed body scrub.

    On the same day, at the Youth Point festival in the Sport hub at 14:30, a miniature city beach festival called Express Moscow-Summer will be held. Guests will make a frame in a marine style, take part in a Zumba workout, play beach games, sing hits in karaoke and relax in the chill zone.

    From 15:00 to 17:00, the Development hub will host an event that will show the contrast between old and modern Moscow. At 18:00, a master class on painting using the ebru technique will begin. Anyone who wants to will be able to try making drawings on water.

    At the “Creative” site, at 15:00, there will be a master class on creating jewelry from beads, and at 18:00, a lesson on customizing shoppers.

    There will be free skating at the rollerdrome from 10:00 to 11:45, and from 15:00 to 20:10 the play “The Notebook of Memory” will also be shown.

    Yoga, ping pong and meeting tailed creatures

    On July 5 and 6, the Bauman Garden will host a traditional charity festival to mark Family, Love and Fidelity Day “City of the caring”Guests of all ages are invited to participate.

    From 11:00 to 18:00, more than 170 cats and dogs from Moscow shelters will be waiting for visitors at the Fluffy Friend site. All of them are vaccinated and ready to go to a new family.

    Those who wish can help the furry wards of the capital’s non-profit organizations by making a donation using charity service on the mos.ru portal. In addition, you can give pets food. It will be sent to shelters after the festival. Those who already have animals will be able to take memorable photos in the photo zone or get advice from a groomer and veterinarian. And more than 20 creative master classes await guests.

    An extensive program with dances, acrobatic stunts and tricks, animal shows and DJ sets will unfold on the stage. Guests will watch cartoons and films in the summer cinema, and take part in meetings with celebrities. On July 5 at 2:00 pm, actress and participant of the show “Women’s Stand-up” Maria Markova will talk about the importance of conscious charity, and on July 6 at the same time, singer Suzanne Varnina will pick up the baton of kindness.

    On July 5 at 15:00 there will be a show with cats, and on July 6 at 15:00 — a show with dogs. At 16:00 guests will be treated to an acrobatic show and magic tricks. Both days at 19:00 an evening of live music will begin. Festival guests will also be able to play badminton, ping-pong and do yoga. More details — at link.

    A performance about love and a lecture about cinema

    The Moskino cinema park also invites you to spend time usefully. On July 5 at 14:00 and 18:00, the Gonzaga Theatre will show the play “Isadora”The production will tell a story about love, poetry, passion and dance, based on the relationship between Sergei Yesenin and Isadora Duncan.

    On July 5 at 15:00 there will be lecture Director of the Theatre of Young Muscovites Andrey Zadubrovsky. He will talk about the interaction of actors on the set and their transformation into characters, and share his professional experience.

    On July 6, concerts will be held at the Gonzaga Theatre at 12:00, 16:30 and 19:00 quartet “Tomorrow”. The artists will perform songs based on the poems of Sergei Yesenin. The musicians will play electric and acoustic guitars and cajon.

    At 15:00 on the same day with lecture Irina Glebova, Dean of the Production Department of the Institute of Cinema and Television of the Russian Institute of Television and Radio Broadcasting, will speak to guests. She will talk about casting actors for the roles of historical characters and immersion in different eras during filming. The visit is included in the price entrance ticket to the cinema park.

    Rock Ballads and Open Mic

    This summer, you can listen to music in the capital’s parks. A symphony orchestra will play for guests, and singers will perform opera arias. Concerts will be held on July 4 at 19:00 in Pokrovsky Bereg Park, on July 5 at 19:00 in 50th Anniversary of October Park, and on July 6 at 19:00 in the Kolomenskoye Museum-Reserve.

    You can also listen to live music on July 4 from 19:00 to 20:30 in Raduga Park and on July 5 from 19:30 to 21:00 in Tagansky Park. Listeners will hear various compositions from jazz improvisations to rock ballads and electronic experiments.

    Concerts will also be held in the amphitheater of the Polytech Museum Park. On July 5 at 8:00 PM, the Fire Granny group will perform there. And at 8:00 PM, the Territory.Kids festival will take place.

    The State Darwin Museum also invites you to immerse yourself in the world of music. On July 5, from 10:30 to 16:00, guests will enjoy a program dedicated to Family, Love and Fidelity Day. Master classes, games and author’s excursions have been prepared for the guests. And if the weather permits, the roof of the museum will be transformed into an improvised concert venue. In the open microphone format, anyone can read poems about love or perform a song.

    Evening readings and chess

    Citizens are also invited to the project’s events. “Book in the City”. Thus, on July 5 at 16:00 on the site near the Vitali fountain there will be evening readings with the participation of theater and film actor Ivan Stebunov. And on Sretensky Boulevard at 17:00 the actor of the theater “Modern” and master of artistic words Alexey Bagdasarov will perform for the guests. He will read stories by Viktor Dragunsky from the collection “The Magic Power of Art”. Admission is free.

    On July 6 from 12:00 to 16:00 on Chistoprudny Boulevard the tournament “Heroes of the Chessboard. Moscow” will be held. The competition has become part of the program “Summer in Moscow” and is held with the support of the Department of Trade and Services of the City of Moscow, the Chess Federation of Russia and the Russian Military Historical Society as part of the project “The country helped chess, chess helped the country”.

    The tournament continues the tradition of mass intellectual competitions in the capital. This year, both beginners and titled chess players are taking part.

    The leaders of the qualifying games will fight for a place in the final, where the strongest will compete for the main prize. To participate, you will need pre-registration.

    Zumba, fitrock and circus divertissements

    On July 6, in the picturesque areas of the recreation areas near the water bodies, you can attend classes of the project “Summer. Beach. Moscow Sport” in yoga, stretching, zumba, fitrock and functional training. Join classescan be found in the recreation areas “Levoberezh’ye”, “Troparevo” and “Beloe Ozero”, in Serebryany Bor (beach No. 3), as well as on Shkolnoye Lake (Zelenograd) and in “Strogino Wake Park”.

    At 11:00 in Meshchersky Park there will be a fitrock class, and at 14:00 they invite you to a functional training. At 11:00 in the Levoberezhye recreation area there will be a stretching training session, and at 14:00 — a zumba training session. At 11:00 in the Troparevo recreation area there will be a functional training session, and at 14:00 — yoga on the beach. Near Shkolnoye Lake at 11:00 visitors will have a yoga session, and at 14:00 — a functional training session. At 11:00 in the Beloye Ozero recreation area there will be a yoga training session on the beach, and at 14:00 guests are invited to zumba.

    At 11:00 a stretching training session will be held at the Strogino Wake Park site, and at 14:00 visitors will enjoy a yoga session on the beach. Guests of Serebryany Bor are invited to yoga at 11:00 a.m., and to functional training at 2:00 p.m.

    And on July 4 at 19:00, July 5 and 6 at 14:00 and 18:00 in the park “Yuzhnoye Butovo”, Izmailovsky Park and Moskino cinema park circus divertissements have been prepared for guests. The program includes a show with the participation of artists of the Great Moscow Circus. You can buy a ticket at website.

    Get the latest news quickly official telegram channelthe 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.

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

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/156220073/

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • Can carbon pricing curb climate change and where does India stand?

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Carbon pricing is increasingly recognized worldwide as a powerful tool to combat the devastating impacts of climate change. But what exactly is it, and how does it work? Let’s explore this transformative approach to driving a greener and more sustainable future.

    Carbon pricing is a policy mechanism that puts a financial cost on greenhouse gas emissions. This policy tool is primarily aimed at discouraging emitters of the greenhouse gas especially carbon dioxide and encouraging individuals, industries and other stakeholders to reduce such emissions to save the mother earth, as climate change is causing a great deal of damage in almost every part of the world, which appears irreparable in several cases.  

    Driven largely by the excessive emission of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide, climate change is increasingly posing a critical threat to global ecosystems, economies and societies. In the process, one of the most effective tools developed to mitigate these emissions is carbon pricing. This mechanism mandates to internalize the environmental damage caused by pollution, thus encouraging industries and consumers to reduce their carbon footprint.

    To understand it lucidly, carbon pricing is an economic strategy designed to reduce global warming. It reflects the cost of carbon emissions in the market, encouraging emitters to either reduce their emissions or pay for the same. In simple terms, it is a kind of financial penalty imposed on the release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere by the people, industries or other stakeholders.

    There are two primary forms of carbon pricing- carbon tax and cap-and-trade. Each of these mechanisms puts a price on carbon, but in different ways. While, carbon tax directly sets a price on carbon by defining a tax rate on greenhouse gas emissions or more commonly on the carbon content of fossil fuels, making it easier for businesses to plan future investments.

    Besides, carbon tax is imposed by the government on on fossil fuels like coal, oil and gas based on their carbon content. The higher the emissions associated with a fuel, the higher the tax, making high emission fuels more expensive, thus encouraging a shift towards cleaner energy sources. For example, Sweden has one of the highest carbon taxes in the world, set at around $130 per tonne of CO₂. The country has reduced carbon emissions significantly while maintaining economic growth since its adoption of the mechanism in 1991.

    On the other hand, under Cap-and-Trade or Emissions Trading System (ETS), the government sets a total cap on emissions and distributes or auctions emission permits to emitters. Companies can buy and sell these allowances, creating a market for carbon emissions. Without doubt, a cap limits total emissions for a group of industries or the entire economy.

    In this system, companies receive or purchase allowances representing the right to emit a specific amount of CO2, and if a company emits less than its allowance, it can sell the surplus to other companies. Similarly, if a company exceeds the allowance level, it must buy more. Here, it is interesting to note that the cap doesn’t remain fixed, but is gradually reduced over time to decrease total emissions.

    The European Union emissions trading system is the largest and most established cap-and-trade system, as it covers more than 11,000 power plants and factories across Europe and is a cornerstone of the EU’s climate policy.

    However, a number of countries worldwide have adopted carbon pricing mechanisms including those in Europe. Canada, China, Japan, South Korea, USA, New Zealand, Britain, South Africa, Mexico, Kazakhstan, Singapore, Colombia, Ukrain, Indonesia, Vietnam and a few others have already adopted different mechanisms. The pioneers in the process are Sweden and Finland. While Sweden introduced it in 1991, Finland was the first country to introduce a carbon tax in 1990.

    While, the impacts of climate change are widespread, serious experienced across the globe, the trends to contain it through carbon pricing mechanisms are also encouraging. According to estimates, as of now, carbon pricing mechanisms cover about 23% of global greenhouse gas emissions. The total global value of carbon pricing instruments in operation exceeds $100 billion annually.

    At the same time, there is a growing push for international coordination, especially through article 6 of the Paris Agreement, which allows countries to trade emissions reductions. Thus, the carbon market has grown rapidly in the past decade, fueled by increased climate commitments under the Paris Agreement and the development of regional and national carbon pricing mechanisms.

    To know more about how different countries of the world are responding to these initiatives, we can approach to the World Bank’s Carbon Pricing Dashboard, which provides a comprehensive overview of carbon pricing initiatives worldwide, including their design, coverage and price levels. The World Bank report on the trends of carbon pricing also shows a significant increase in the number of operational carbon pricing instruments and highlights the growing trend of carbon pricing globally.

    In recent years, especially since Narendra Modi government came at the Centre, India has also been rapidly advancing toward a structured and regulated carbon pricing ecosystem. It is a part of India’s broader climate and sustainable development agenda.

    Amid the growing global focus on carbon markets and emissions trading, India is taking significant steps toward establishing a rate-based Emissions Trading System (ETS) along with complementary voluntary carbon credit mechanisms. The World Bank’s ‘State and Trends of Carbon Pricing 2025’ report highlights India’s expanding role as a key emerging economy shaping the future of global climate finance and carbon pricing architecture.

    Rate-based ETS refers to a system where total emissions are not capped but individual entities are allocated a performance benchmark that serves as a limit on their net emissions. Rate-based ETSs offer additional flexibility in managing future growth uncertainty as well as international competitiveness concerns.

    India’s Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS) is a strategic initiative aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions through carbon pricing. It comprises two main components- a compliance mechanism for obligated entities, especially for the industrial sector and an offset mechanism to enable voluntary participation.

    The scheme being worked out in India, is designed to incentivize and support efforts toward decarbonizing the Indian economy. By establishing the necessary institutional framework, the CCTS has laid the groundwork for the development of the Indian Carbon Market (ICM).

    It’s heartening to note here that carbon pricing is no longer a niche policy meant for only rich countries, now it has become a mainstream tool for climate action worldwide including India and other developing countries. Whether through carbon taxes or emissions trading systems, countries are finding ways to internalize the environmental costs of carbon and transition toward a low-carbon future, which augur well for the future of the planet.  

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development Holds Multi-stakeholder Round Table on Reforming International Financial Architecture and Addressing Systemic Issues

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    The Conference holds its final multi-stakeholder round table this morning on “Reforming the international financial architecture and addressing systemic issues”.

    Co-chaired by Carlos Cuerpo Caballero, Minister for Economy, Commerce and Business of Spain, and Seedy Keita, Minister for Finance and Economic Affairs of the Gambia, it will feature a keynote address by Hussain Mohamed Latheef, Vice-President, Republic of Maldives.

    Rebeca Grynspan, Secretary-General of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), will moderate the discussion.

    Panelists will include:  Mthuli Ncube- Minister for Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion of Zimbabwe; Facinet Sylla, Minister for Budget of Guinea; Hervé Ndoba, Minster for Finance and Budget of the Central African Republic; and Carlo Monticelli, Governor of the Council of Europe Development Bank. 

    José Viñals, GISD Alliance Co-Chair and Senior Advisor to the Board of Standard Chartered, as well as a civil society representative, will be the discussants.

    MIL OSI United Nations News

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) Secures €250M for Lobito Corridor as Rail Projects Drive African Mining Boom

    Source: APO – Report:

    .

    Africa’s railway sector is undergoing a renaissance, with strategic transport corridors rapidly expanding to unlock the continent’s mineral wealth and strengthen global trade ties. In June, the Africa Finance Corporation secured a €250 million (http://apo-opa.co/3Tje8ph), 10-year loan from Italian development finance institution Cassa Depositi e Prestiti to accelerate the development of the Lobito Corridor – an essential mineral transport network linking Angola, Zambia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo to global markets. The loan will finance the procurement of goods and services from Italian companies for both the corridor and associated renewable energy projects.

    The Lobito Corridor is among several strategic projects that will feature prominently at African Mining Week (AMW), taking place October 1–3, 2025, in Cape Town. AMW will showcase high-impact investment opportunities across Africa’s mining and infrastructure value chains, with a focus on how rail logistics are transforming landlocked mineral-rich regions into competitive, export-oriented hubs.

    Simandou Rail Hits Construction Milestone

    In West Africa, Guinea-Conakry marked a key milestone in June with the completion of a 903-meter tunnel on the 650-km Simandou Railway (http://apo-opa.co/45SkT8V). Once operational by early 2026, the line will transport up to 120 million tons of high-grade iron ore annually from the Simandou deposit — home to an estimated 2 billion tons of reserves. U.S. company Wabtec (http://apo-opa.co/4l9hRlk) was awarded a $248 million contract in February to supply locomotives for the project. At AMW 2025, a high-level panel, “From Mines to Markets: Strengthening Trade and Connectivity for Africa’s Mineral Future (http://apo-opa.co/44sE5Yv),” will explore how megaprojects like Simandou are strengthening Africa’s mineral value chain.

    Mauritania Advances Iron Ore Rail Expansion

    Mauritania has also made strides in rail development, securing a €113 million loan from the European Investment Bank (EIB) (http://apo-opa.co/45SWH6n) in June to co-finance the expansion of a key iron ore railway between Zouérat and Nouadhibou. The project – backed by a total €461 million investment involving national mining company SNIM, EIB and private investors – will optimize exports of Mauritania’s iron ore to international markets. AMW 2025 will provide a platform for global investors to engage with opportunities emerging in Mauritania and similar markets.

    Cameroon Strengthens Bauxite Logistics

    In Central Africa, Australia’s Canyon Resources acquired a 9.1% stake in Cameroon’s national rail operator, Camrail (http://apo-opa.co/4kn52D4), to bolster logistics for the Minim Martap Bauxite Mine (http://apo-opa.co/3TnW8Kn). The acquisition – from TotalEnergies and Société d’Exploitation des Bois du Cameroun – aims to enhance rail access from the mine to port infrastructure, facilitating the export of up to 6.4 million tons of bauxite annually. AMW will feature investment-ready opportunities tied to bauxite and other critical minerals (http://apo-opa.co/45SkV0x) driving the energy transition.

    China Deepens Rail Footprint in Africa

    In East Africa, the China Railway Engineering Group signed a $2.15 billion agreement in February with Tanzania and Burundi (http://apo-opa.co/3ZYN8Pz) to build a 282-km cross-border railway. The line is expected to support the export of up to 3 million tons of minerals annually, improving regional and global market access. In Nigeria, the China Development Bank (http://apo-opa.co/3TZOrdr) provided a $254.76 million grant in January to finance the Kano-Kaduna rail line – a vital link between the Lagos-Ibadan and Kano-Maradi corridors. This project will enhance mineral and energy transportation across West Africa. At AMW 2025, the China-Africa Cooperation on Minerals Roundtable (http://apo-opa.co/45SkWl7) will convene public and private sector leaders to strengthen bilateral ties, while the Invest in Nigeria Infrastructure session (http://apo-opa.co/4la5V2L) will further spotlight opportunities like the Kano-Kaduna rail project as cornerstones of Nigeria’s mining and logistics growth.

    – on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

    About African Mining Week: 
    African Mining Week serves as a premier platform for exploring the full spectrum of mining opportunities across Africa. The event is held alongside the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies 2025 conference from October 1-3 in Cape Town. Sponsors, exhibitors and delegates can learn more by contacting sales@energycapitalpower.com.

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI Africa: International Monetary Fund (IMF) Executive Board Completes the First Review under the Extended Credit Facility Arrangement for the Democratic Republic of the Congo

    Source: APO – Report:

    .

    • The IMF Executive Board has completed the first review under the Extended Credit Facility arrangement for the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The decision allows for an immediate disbursement of US$ 261.9 million towards international reserves, to continue building buffers.
    • The DRC’s economy has been resilient in a challenging environment amid the escalation of the armed conflict in the eastern part of the country, which placed significant strains on the budget. The authorities have made good progress on the structural reform’s agenda, but a few quantitative targets were missed.
    • The recent peace agreement signed between the governments of the DRC and Rwanda, mediated by the United States, is encouraging for the prospect of a peaceful resolution of the conflict and renewed focus on development goals.

    The Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) completed the first review under the Extended Credit Facility (ECF) Arrangement for the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) approved on January 15, 2025 (see PR 25/003). The completion of the first review allowed an immediate disbursement equivalent to 190.4 million SDR (about US$ 261.9 million) to support balance-of-payment needs, bringing the aggregate disbursement to date to 380.5 million SDR (about 523.4 US$ million).  

    The DRC has been facing significant challenges amid the intensification of the armed conflict in its eastern part since end-2024. The escalation of hostilities has claimed thousands of lives and caused severe social and humanitarian damages, including disruptions in access to essential services such as food, water, and electricity. Diplomatic efforts are ongoing to secure a cessation of hostilities and ensure sustainable peace in the region. The signing on June 27, 2025, of a peace agreement between the governments of the DRC and Rwanda, under the mediation of the United States, is encouraging for the prospect of a peaceful resolution on the ongoing conflict and renewed focus on addressing development goals.

    Despite the challenging environment, economic activity remained resilient, with robust GDP growth of 6.5 percent in 2024, driven by continued dynamism in the extractive sector.  External stability has strengthened, as the current account deficit narrowed and the accumulation of international reserves continued. Inflationary pressures continue to ease, and year-on-year inflation declined from 23.8 percent at end-2023 to 11.7 percent at end-2024 and [8.5] percent at end-June 2025.

    Performance under the program was mixed, as the intensification of the conflict has placed significant strains on the budget. Despite strong revenue collection, the domestic fiscal deficit reached 0.8 percent of GDP in 2024, exceeding the program target of 0.3 percent, owing to spending overruns linked to the escalation of the conflict, including on exceptional security spending and public investments. The program target on the Central Bank of the Congo (BCC)’s foreign exchange assets held with domestic correspondents was missed as well, due to higher-than-expected tax payments in foreign currency on government accounts. Other quantitative performance criteria of the ECF were met. Most indicative targets were also met, except those related to the floor on social spending and the ceiling on spending executed through emergency procedures—owing to elevated exceptional security spending linked to the conflict intensification. Appropriate corrective measures are being implemented by the authorities.

    In completing the first review, the Executive Board also approved the authorities’ request for waivers of nonobservance of the performance criteria on the floor on the domestic fiscal balance at end-December 2024 on the basis of corrective actions, and the continuous ceiling on the levels of foreign currency assets of the BCC held with domestic correspondents on the basis of the temporary nature of the deviation which has since been remedied. Further, the Executive Board completed the financing assurances review under the ECF arrangement. No reform measures under the Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF) arrangement, approved in January 2025, were due for review at this time.

    At the conclusion of the Executive Board’s discussion, Mr. Okamura, Deputy Managing Director and Chair stated:

    “The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has been confronted with heightened security challenges since late 2024. The escalation of the conflict in the eastern part of the country has caused serious human, social and economic damage and induced the government to increase spending. Despite these difficulties, the macroeconomic environment of the DRC remained broadly stable. Growth has remained robust, due to the resilience of mining production. Inflation continues to decrease, and the external position has strengthened. The economic outlook remains positive, but is fraught with downside risks related to the persistence of the conflict, declining external humanitarian assistance, global economic headwinds, and potential escalation of geopolitical conflicts. The authorities are committed to closely monitor these risks and to respond proactively to evolving challenges.

    “Budget implementation remains challenging in a difficult security context. As a result, the domestic fiscal deficit is projected to be larger than initially projected for 2025, but is expected to return to the path envisaged at program approval starting in 2026, reflecting the authorities’ commitment to carry out measures to enhance domestic revenue mobilization and strengthen the budget implementation process. Additionally, to guard against unforeseen adverse shocks, the authorities have adopted a contingency plan.

    “The Central Bank of the Congo (BCC) has maintained a tight monetary policy stance, thereby helping bring inflation down to single digits for the first time in three years. The accumulation of international reserves has continued, on the back of the narrowing of the current account deficit. Efforts must continue, to strengthen the monetary policy implementation framework, refine the foreign exchange intervention strategy, enhance the governance and safeguards of the BCC and ensure its adequate recapitalization.

    “The authorities have committed to accompany these efforts to preserve macroeconomic stability with an acceleration of structural reforms in key areas, including strengthening the AML/CFT framework, improving the business climate, enhancing transparency and governance, combating corruption and upgrading national statistics. Efforts to lay the groundwork for a timely implementation of the reform measures underpinning the RSF arrangement approved in January should be stepped up.”

    Table 1. Democratic Republic of the Congo: Selected Economic and Financial Indicators, 2023-26

    2023

    2024

    2025

    2026

    Est.

    CR No. 25/023

    Prel.

    CR No. 25/023

    Proj.

    CR No. 25/023

    Proj.

    (Annual percentage change, unless otherwise indicated)

    GDP and prices

      Real GDP

    8.5

    6.0

    6.5

    5.4

    5.3

    5.1

    5.3

         Extractive GDP

    19.7

    11.6

    12.2

    7.7

    8.2

    5.2

    5.8

         Non-extractive GDP

    3.5

    3.2

    3.5

    4.2

    3.6

    5.0

    5.0

      GDP deflator

    14.4

    17.4

    19.9

    8.8

    8.2

    7.4

    6.7

      Consumer prices, period average

    19.9

    17.7

    17.7

    8.9

    8.8

    7.3

    7.1

      Consumer prices, end of period

    23.8

    12.0

    11.7

    7.8

    7.8

    7.0

    7.0

    (Annual change in percent of beginning-of-period broad money)

    Money and credit

      Net foreign assets

    19.9

    17.4

    23.0

    18.2

    14.5

    23.7

    22.7

      Net domestic assets

    20.3

    4.9

    5.6

    -3.5

    -1.0

    -10.9

    -10.5

         Domestic credit

    34.3

    15.4

    15.2

    9.9

    10.5

    3.7

    4.2

      Broad money

    40.3

    22.4

    28.1

    14.7

    13.8

    12.8

    12.3

    (Percent of GDP, unless otherwise indicated)

    Central government finance

      Revenue and grants

    14.8

    15.6

    15.2

    15.0

    14.8

    14.9

    14.9

      Expenditures

    16.5

    16.8

    16.5

    16.8

    17.0

    16.6

    16.6

      Domestic fiscal balance

    -1.2

    -0.3

    -0.8

    -0.8

    -1.2

    -0.8

    -0.8

    Investment and saving

      Gross national saving

    9.5

    9.1

    9.6

    12.2

    11.2

    13.0

    12.5

      Investment

    15.7

    14.2

    13.5

    15.0

    14.4

    15.3

    14.8

         Non-government

    12.0

    10.0

    10.0

    10.0

    10.0

    10.0

    10.0

    Balance of payments

      Exports of goods and services

    44.0

             45.1

    47.4

    45.4

    46.1

    45.5

    46.6

      Imports of goods and services

    49.9

    48.9

    50.3

    47.3

    47.5

    46.9

    47.0

      Current account balance, incl. transfer

    -6.2

    -5.1

    -3.9

    -2.8

    -3.2

    -2.4

    -2.4

      Current account balance, excl. transfers

    -7.5

    -5.1

    -5.0

    -2.7

    -3.4

    -2.3

    -2.6

      Gross official reserves (weeks of imports)

    8.2

    10.0

    10.1

    11.5

    11.8

    12.7

    12.8

    External debt

      Debt service in percent of government revenue

    7.6

    5.7

    6.1

    6.7

    7.1

    7.0

    7.4

    – on behalf of International Monetary Fund (IMF).

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Pathway to the launch of the Steel Strategy

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Pathway to the launch of the Steel Strategy

    In the run-up to launching the Steel Strategy later this year, Industry Minister Sarah Jones has welcomed a series of recent wins for the sector.

    This government is committed to a bright and sustainable future for steelmaking in the UK, as part of our Plan for Change.

    In the run-up to launching the Steel Strategy later this year, Industry Minister Sarah Jones has welcomed a series of recent wins for the sector following government backing. The Government has taken major action on areas crucial for the sector, from trade protections and electricity costs to procurement, including:

    Industrial Strategy and Spending Review

    • Slashing electricity costs for steel producers by cutting network charges via the Supercharger by 90%, up from 60%, as announced in our modern Industrial Strategy.
    • Streamlining grid access for major investment projects — including prioritising those that create high-quality jobs and deliver significant economic benefits – through a new Connections Accelerator Service.
    • We will work closely with the energy sector, local authorities, Welsh and Scottish Governments, trade unions, and industry to design this service, which we expect to begin operating at the end of 2025.
    • New powers in the Planning and Infrastructure Bill, currently before parliament, could also allow the Government to reserve grid capacity for strategically important projects, cutting waiting times and unlocking growth in key sectors.
    • The Industrial Strategy’s support for sectors such as Advanced Manufacturing will also increase demand for steel as a foundational product, as demand for lightweight and precision engineered steel products increases.
    • Confirming funding in the Spending Review for a £500 million grant to Tata Steel in Port Talbot as part of a £1.25bn transformation deal to construct an Electric Arc Furnace.

    Trade

    • Strengthening current steel safeguard measures by slowing future increases in spikes of foreign imports, capping certain import levels and tightening country-specific limits – ensuring UK steel producers won’t be undercut while still making sure the UK has a steady and reliable supply.

    • Announcing our intent to launch new laws to expand our powers to respond to unfair trade practices, and guard against global turbulence in critical sectors, such as steel, as announced in the Trade Strategy.
    • Inviting steel producers, consumers and stakeholders across the supply chain to shape our future approach to trade measures for steel in a new call for evidence, as we continue to support the UK steel industry from unfair trading practices and strengthen the UK’s critical supply chains after the expiry of steel safeguard in June 2026.

    Procurement

    • Changing government procurement rules, via the publication of a new Steel Public Procurement Notice, to ensure UK-made-steel is considered for all public projects and to use exemptions in buying rules to support steel makers wherever possible. This will give them access to more of the £400bn spent by the Government each year on procurement and help to protect our national security.

    • Publishing a pipeline of UK infrastructure projects taking place over the next few years. The 2025 data shows that over 7.5 million tonnes steel will be needed for these projects.
    • British Steel securing a £500m contract with Network Rail to supply over 337,000 tonnes of rail track, providing 80% of the company’s needs and helping to secure jobs.

    Industry Minister Sarah Jones said:

    This government recognises how vital steel is to our economy. That’s why we’re taking the decisive action needed to back the sector for the future, whether it’s slashing energy prices, strengthening government procurement or bolstering our trade defence measures.

    Our upcoming Steel Strategy will set out our long-term vision for the sector and how we’ll work with industry and communities to deliver a bright, sustainable future for UK steelmaking that secures good, well-paid jobs across the country as part of our Plan for Change.

    The Steel Strategy will be launched later this year, and will:

    • Establish a clear and ambitious long-term vision for the steel industry, in partnership with business and workers
    • Set out the actions needed to achieve that vision
    • Identify gaps in current capabilities and assess future UK steel demand, helping to inform investment decisions which will support economic growth
    • Set out what is needed to create a competitive business environment in the UK with the aim of attracting new private investment to expand UK steelmaking capability and capacity.

    The Government will continue to work closely with the Steel Council and wider stakeholders to build on the significant positive steps we’ve taken towards the publication of the full Strategy.

    You can find all our recent and upcoming announcements relating to the Steel Strategy on our GOV.UK Collection page.

    Updates to this page

    Published 3 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI: BloFin WOW (War of Whales) 2025 Grand Prix Opens Registration for $4.2M Trading Championship and Tesla Cybertruck Prize

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ROAD TOWN, Virgin Islands, July 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — BloFin, a leading global cryptocurrency exchange, has officially launched registration for its blockbuster trading competition: the WOW(War of Whales) 2025 Grand Prix.

    With an extraordinary total prize pool of up to $4,200,000 USDT, exclusive giveaways including a Tesla Cybertruck, and four exciting competition formats, WOW 2025 is set to become one of the most dynamic trading events of the year for crypto traders worldwide.

    Four Thrilling Competition Formats, One Epic Trading Season

    This year’s WOW Grand Prix offers participants four engaging ways to compete and win big:

    • Trading Competition (Futures)
    • Treasure Box Prize Hunt
    • Lucky Spin Draw
    • Grand Lotto Giveaway

    From June 26 to July 15, traders can join team battles, climb individual leaderboards, unlock random rewards, and spin their way toward exclusive prizes — creating a truly immersive trading experience.

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    About BloFin

    BloFin is a top-tier cryptocurrency exchange that specializes in futures trading. The platform offers 480+ USDT-M perpetual pairs, Coin-Margined Perpetual Contracts, spot trading, copy trading, API access, unified account management, and advanced sub-account solutions. Committed to security and compliance, BloFin integrates Fireblocks and Chainalysis to ensure robust asset protection. By partnering with top affiliates, BloFin delivers scalable trading solutions, efficient fund management, and enhanced flexibility for professional traders. As the constant sponsor of TOKEN2049, BloFin continues to expand its global presence, reinforcing its position as the place “WHERE WHALES ARE MADE.” For more information, visit BloFin’s official website at https://www.blofin.com.

    Contact:
    Annio W.
    annio@blofin.io

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by BloFin. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility. Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.

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    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Concerts, master classes, film screenings will be held as part of the Friendship of Nations festival

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The fifth festival of national hospitality “Friendship of Peoples” will be held at VDNKh from July 3 to 6. Business, entertainment and cultural programs have been prepared for guests.

    The program will include concerts, family entertainment, the International Festival of Culture, Fashion and National Hospitality “Uzoryfest” and much more. In addition, for the first time, the festival will feature two national holidays – the republics of Chuvashia and Udmurtia, as well as a special program for Karachay-Cherkessia. Entrance to most events is free, but some require pre-registration. You can view the program on the official website VDNKh.

    As reported earlier Natalia Sergunina, Deputy Mayor of Moscow, as part of the festival “Friendship of Nations” Around 100 events of various formats are planned: expert discussions, art exhibitions, sports competitions, culinary master classes and tastings.

    The participants of the business program will gather in the congress hall of the Cosmonautics and Aviation Center. They will discuss current issues related to business tourism, fashion, and culture. On July 3 at 1:00 p.m., there will be a panel discussion on the topic of “Going beyond the showcase: how museums are becoming living mediators,” and at 3:00 p.m., there will be a panel discussion on “MICE tourism: a look into the future.” On July 4 at 1:00 p.m., the plenary session “Friendship of Peoples: a variety of formats for interstate events” will begin. To participate in the business program, you must register.

    The festival will take place from July 4 to 6 “Patterns Fest”. It will include two blocks: business and cultural and entertainment. They will be held from 11:00 to 20:00.

    On July 5, from 2:00 PM to 10:00 PM, a concert program will be held on the main stage of the festival, located on the square between Pavilion No. 1 “Central” and the “Friendship of Peoples” fountain. It will feature the Moscow State Dance Ensemble “Russian Seasons”, the folk ensemble “Matrena-art”, the Udmurt State Theater of Folk Song and Dance “Aikai”, the folk group “Buranovskie Babushki”, the State Academic Choreographic Ensemble “Berezka” named after N.S. Nadezhdina, the State Academic Honored Dance Ensemble of Dagestan “Lezginka”, the State Song and Dance Ensemble of the Republic of Tatarstan, the State Academic Koryak National Dance Ensemble “Mengo” named after Alexander Gil (Gubernatorsky). The State Song and Dance Ensemble “Sayany” will present the world premiere of a fragment of the first Tuvan ballet “Subedei”. The main role will be played by People’s Artist of Russia Farukh Ruzimov.

    In addition, the People’s Artist of Russia Nadezhda Krygina, the folk song ensemble “Lyubo-milo”, the folk-metal group “Kalevala”, the neofolk group “Balakir”, the ethno-electropunk group Hagrin, as well as the poet and composer Lena Vasilek, the performer from Donetsk Natalia Kachura, the singer Islam Itlyashev, and the first Mari rapper Ship Liy will perform.

    Exhibitions, sports competitions, master classes

    On July 4, events prepared by the Karachay-Cherkess Republic will be held. A documentary photo exhibition dedicated to the 200th anniversary of Cherkessk will open in the southern rose garden. It will introduce visitors to archival and historical footage of the city. The Cosmonautics and Aviation Center will host a tourism presentation of the region as part of the business program. At 1:00 p.m., the VDNKh Culture House will show the play The Marriage of Balzaminov by the Russian Drama and Comedy Theater of the Karachay-Cherkess Republic, and at 4:00 p.m., the feature film The Aul Test will be shown.

    On July 5, the traditional holiday of the Udmurt Republic Gerber will be held. It is held after the end of spring field work to express gratitude to nature, perform symbolic rituals, conduct the first haymaking, cook barley porridge cooked in meat broth, and treat yourself to perepechi. The holiday will begin at 07:00 with a sports race on the northern loop of the VDNKh ring road. The route of the distances can be found atwebsiteYou can also register for the race here.

    Guests will be able to visit an exhibition-fair of goods from young republican entrepreneurs and artisans, an exhibition called “Udmurtia is proud”, lessons in the Udmurt language and film screenings in it, a presentation of books by national writers, as well as watch a concert program and take part in various master classes.

    On July 6, the national holiday of the Chuvash Republic, Akatuy, will take place. Sports competitions in kereshu wrestling will be organized for guests, as well as a special program in the “House of Russian Cuisine”: master classes, a concert, tastings. At 13:45, all those wishing to will walk around the “Friendship of Peoples” fountain in a round dance with the participation of artists in Chuvash costumes.

    At 14:30 there will be a grand opening of the festival, an award ceremony for outstanding Chuvash people, a fashion show in national costumes, and a concert featuring the Chuvash State Academic Song and Dance Ensemble, the classical group “Belcanto”, the folklore and pop ensemble “Syaval”, the vocal group “Yardy” and Avgustina Ulyandina, the Chuvash vocal ensemble “Sespel”, groups of the Chuvash State Philharmonic, and artists of the republican pop scene. From 12:00 to 21:00, an exhibition and fair of products from Chuvash manufacturers will be held at the site near pavilion No. 64.

    Outdoor events of the festival’s information partner are planned on the territory of the Orion Family Theme Park. The program “World Family Starts” will be held on July 3-4 from 17:00 to 20:00 and on July 5 and 6 from 13:00 to 20:00.

    National Pavilion Program

    Pavilion No. 4 (Exhibition and Trade Center of the Kyrgyz Republic) will participate in the festival for the first time. On July 3 and 4, guests will be able to attend a tea ceremony in a decorative yurt, take part in master classes on playing the komuz, attend Kyrgyz language lessons, play the folk board game “ordo” (“alchiki”), and take photos in national costumes.

    On July 3, the exhibition “80 Years of Victory in the Great Patriotic War” will open in Pavilion No. 18 (Exhibition and Trade Center of the Republic of Belarus). It is dedicated to the Independence Day of the Republic of Belarus.

    On July 3, the Bel Canto Foundation’s concert “Beauty of Uzbekistan” will be held in Pavilion No. 66 (Exhibition, Cultural and Exposition Center of the Republic of Uzbekistan). Guests will listen to vocal numbers, as well as violin and guitar pieces. In addition, from July 3 to 6, it will be possible to view the interiors of the pavilion.

    On July 5, a master class on cooking the national dish “harisa” with tasting will be held in Pavilion No. 68 (Exhibition and Trade Center of the Republic of Armenia). In addition, musical and dance groups will perform for the guests.

    Good Neighborliness Festival, Equestrian Ceremony, Film Festival

    On July 4, the Children’s Embassy will host the circus program “Circus Lights Up the Lights,” and on July 5, it will host a good-neighborliness festival. Guests will visit a performance, workshops, a beauty gallery, get face painting, and see a clown and jugglers perform.

    On July 5 at 11:45, the equestrian ceremony of the riders of the Kremlin Equestrian School will begin. The route runs from the Center of National Equestrian Traditions to the Druzhby Narodov Square, where a performance with the participation of the orchestra will be held for the spectators. In pavilion No. 42, the Center of National Equestrian Traditions, a program dedicated to Caucasian horse breeds will be presented. It will include educational stories and creative master classes. On July 6 at 12:00, sports events will be held for guests of VDNKh on the site of pavilion No. 27, Physical Education and Sports.

    The Druzhba Narodov film festival will be held at the Cinema Museum at VDNKh. On July 3 at 4:00 PM, guests will be introduced to the festival program and the film Girl with a Guitar will be shown. On July 5 at 4:00 PM, the drama Little Sister will be presented, and on July 6 at 4:00 PM, the film Don’t Bury Me Without Ivan. Detailed information can be found on the website Cinema Museum.

    The Atom Museum invites you to the Atom Unites tour from July 4 to 6 at 19:00, which will open the world of international nuclear energy to visitors. You can register atwebsite. On July 3 at 17:00, there will be a master class “Radiation around: from the Urals to Kamchatka” and a quiz “Through the Arctic ice”. And on July 3 and 4 at 16:00, young visitors will be introduced to social geography at the master class “Across Eurasia with Atom”. You can find out more about it atwebsite.

    The Glavvino pavilion has prepared a special summer set, “Hospitality,” consisting of five Russian wines and snacks to go with them. The set is available for order from July 3 to 6.

    On July 5 at 16:00 in the hall “Krasnostop” (2nd floor of the pavilion “Glavvino”) there will be a tasting “Hospitality” with chef-caviste Vladimir Glukhov. In honor of the festival on the site in front of the pavilion from 15:00 to 22:00 there will be a DJ.

    Holding events for VDNKh guests corresponds to the objectives of the national project “Tourism and Hospitality” and is the most important part of the VDNKh strategy until 2030.

    Project “Summer in Moscow” — the main event of the season. It unites the most vibrant events of the capital. Every day in all districts of the city there are charity, cultural and sports programs, most of which are free. The Summer in Moscow project is being held for the second time, and this season will be more eventful: new, original and colorful festivals and events will be added to the traditional ones.

    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.

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

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/156166073/

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Rosneft and the Ministry of Industry and Trade of the Russian Federation Enter into a Cooperation Agreement

    Source: Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Rosneft and the Ministry of Industry and Trade of the Russian Federation signed a Cooperation Agreement at the XXVIII St. Petersburg International Economic Forum.

    The document was signed by Rosneft CEO Igor Sechin and the Minister of Industry and Trade of the Russian Federation Anton Alikhanov.

    The Agreement expands the scope of cooperation between the Company and the Ministry and provides for implementation of joint initiatives to develop industrial infrastructure in Russia, including through localization and import substitution of foreign technologies and equipment.

    Under the Agreement, the parties will develop cooperation with the aim to support the export of industrial products, provide access to the markets of goods and services, and to carry out foreign trade activities.

    Department of Information and Advertising
    Rosneft Oil Company
    June 20, 2025

    These materials contain statements regarding future events and expectations that are forward-looking estimates. Any statement in these materials that is not historical information is a forward-looking statement that involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from the expected results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. We assume no obligation to adjust the data contained herein to reflect actual results, changes in underlying assumptions or factors affecting the forward-looking statements.

    Please note; this information is the raw content received directly from the information source. This is exactly what the source claims and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Rosneft and Voronezh Oblast to Promote Automobile Tourism

    Source: Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    At the XXVII St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, Rosneft and the Ministry of Entrepreneurship, Trade and Tourism of the Voronezh Oblast signed a Memorandum of Cooperation to promote domestic tourism.

    According to the document, the parties plan to implement measures aimed at meeting the demand for domestic automobile tourism, promoting the tourist potential of the region, and improving the comfort of automobile tourists through development of motorway service and Rosneft retail network infrastructure.

    Earlier, Rosneft and the Voronezh Tourist Information Center (TIC) presented a joint project to develop automobile tourism including a tourist route through the motorway service facilities available at Rosneft filling stations. The project covers four routes for automobile travel in Voronezh and across the Voronezh Oblast in the following directions: North, South, West, and East. The routes include popular tourist destinations located both in Voronezh and nearby federal highways such as M-4 Don.

    Rosneft retail network in the Voronezh Oblast consists of 80 filling stations. Of these, 15 are located on the M4 highway to Voronezh, the main regional transportation artery used by residents of Central Russia to travel to the seaside.

    Development of the motorway service facilities and improvement of the customer services provided at Rosneft filling stations is one of the Company priorities.
    This contributes to the development of domestic automobile tourism, as the Company retail network is not only the largest in Russia in terms of geographical coverage and number of filling stations (around 3,000 stations), but also one of the leaders in terms of fuel recognition and quality.

    Rosneft undertakes a number of actions aimed at creating comfortable conditions for automobile travelers. In addition to the Voronezh Oblast, the Company has so far presented joint tourist routes running through the Rosneft filling stations in the Republic of Karelia, as well as the Tula, Arkhangelsk, and Ulyanovsk Regions, as well as key routes between Moscow and Krasnaya Polyana, and between the two capitals.
    On top of that, the Company has previously signed memoranda of cooperation to promote domestic tourism with the Moscow City Tourism Committee, the Government of the Samara Oblast, the Ministry of culture of the Arkhangelsk Oblast, the Altai Territory Department for Tourism and Resort Development, Tourism Agencies of the Ulyanovsk Oblast and the Republic of Udmurtia, and the Republic of Bashkortostan.

    Reference:

    Rosneft retail network is the largest in the Russian Federation in terms of geographical coverage and number of stations, and the Rosneft brand of petrol stations is one of the leading brands in Russia in terms of fuel recognition and quality. The Company operates approximately 3,000 filling stations in Russia, Belarus, Kyrgyzstan and Abkhazia.

    In addition to high-quality fuel, the Company offers its customers a wide range of goods and services, from stores and cafes to roadside service. For example, customers can stay for the night and get some rest from the long road in roadside hotels and multifunctional complexes of the Company in a number of regions.

    The Company is also developing a new customer service at filling stations – food trucks (mobile retail outlets). The Café on Wheels service is available at filling stations in Moscow, St. Petersburg and other regions where the retail network operates.

    Rosneft
    Information and Advertising Department
    June 7, 2024

    These materials contain forward-looking statements regarding future events and expectations. All statements contained in these materials that do not relate to matters of historical fact constitute forward-looking statements which involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any expected results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. We assume no obligation to update the data contained herein to reflect actual performance or results, changes in underlying assumptions or factors affecting the forward-looking statements.

    Keywords: Social News 2024

    Please note; this information is the raw content received directly from the information source. This is exactly what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: V.F. Stanis 100th anniversary medal: RUDN foreign alumni

    Source: Peoples’Friendship University of Russia –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The aaniversary medal to the 100th anniversary of V.F. Stanis is awarded to RUDN current and ex-employees and students for: significant contribution to the university development; long-standing commitment to maintaining ties with the university; fruitful cooperation of Russian and foreign organizations, scientists and public figures with the university.

    The aaniversary medal to the 100th anniversary of V.F. Stanis is awarded to RUDN current and ex-employees and students for:

    • significant contribution to the university development;
    • long-standing commitment to maintaining ties with the university;
    • fruitful cooperation of Russian and foreign organizations, scientists and public figures with the university.

    RUDN foreign alumni

    For their contribution to the promotion of RUDN abroad, for maintaining relations with the university and cooperation, 16 foreign graduates received the V.F. Stanis anniversary medal:

    1. Galina Abbas (Lebanon);
    2. Hamed Muhieddin Abou Zahr (Lebanon, Peru);
    3. Al-Twal Salam Fakhri (Jordan);
    4. Gupta Sudhir (India);
    5. Georges Aoun (Lebanon);
    6. Kalumbi Shangula (Namibia);
    7. Mizanur Rahman (Bangladesh);
    8. Mustafa Hammoud Al-Nawaise (Jordan);
    9. Navin Saxena (India);
    10. Najim Riad Yousef (Lebanon);
    11. Nilakshi Suryanarayan (India);
    12. Gagan Patwardhan (India);
    13. Rigoberto Santos Hilario (Dominican Republic);
    14. Ruben Dario Flores (Colombia);
    15. Auelbek Tokzhanov (Kazakhstan);
    16. Jose Hidalgo Salazar (Ecuador).

    Faculty of Economics and Law

    • Mizanur Rahman, graduate ‘81 — head of the Association of Alumni of Russian and Soviet Universities in Bangladesh.
    • Mustafa Hammoud Al-Nawaise, graduate ‘91 — international lawyer, former Secretary General of the Constitutional Court of Jordan.
    • Hamed Muhieddin Abou Zahr, graduate ‘92 — President of the Arab-Peruvian Chamber of Commerce, Vice-president of the Association of RUDN Alumni in Peru, Honorary Consul of Lebanon in Peru.

    Faculty of Science

    Graduate ‘78 of the Faculty of Science, majoring in Chemistry, Navin Saxena is the President of the international group of pharmaceutical companies: Rusan Pharma (India), Euro-Med (Russia), Pharmaker (Great Britain), Uzpharmaker (Uzbekistan), Pharmaker (Ukraine), Pharmaker (UAE) and owns the pharmaceutical companies Rusan Pharma and Pharmaker. In 2005, Rusan Pharma became a supplier of vital drugs under the Benefit-2005 program in the Russian Federation. It still remains one of the largest suppliers of drugs to the Russian Ministry of Health, the Russian Ministry of Defense and the Russian Ministry of Emergency Situations, as well as to the services of the Russian Army. Navin Saxena is the author of a large number of publications in Russian and foreign scientific journals, has drugs copyright certificates and patents.

    Faculty of History and Philology

    • Ruben Dario Flores, graduate ‘83 — Director of the Leo Tolstoy Institute of Culture in Bogota, Colombia.
    • Nilakshi Suryanarayan, graduate ‘80 — Head of the Department of Slavonic and Finno-Ugrian Studies at the University of Delhi, professor, teacher of Russian language and literature.
    • Galina Abbas, graduate ‘92 — President of RUDN University Alumni Association in Lebanon.

    All of them actively promote Russian education and the Russian language in their countries. Thus, Nilakshi Suryanarayan is the author of a popular manual among Indian students of philology, “Russian Verbs with Prefixes: Meaning and Usage”. Galina Abbas was awarded the Pushkin Medal, and Ruben Dario Flores is a translator of works by Russian poets A.Pushkin, B.Pasternak and A.Tarkovsky.

    Faculty of Medicine

    In 1978, Najim Riad Youssef graduated from the Faculty of Medicine. Najim Riad Youssef is the CEO of RamTEK LLC and Vice-Chairman of the Lebanese-Russian Friendship Society, popularizing Russian higher education and science abroad, which made him the Ambassador of Russian Education and Science.

    Kalumbi Shangula graduated from the Faculty of Medicine in 1983. He is the Minister of Health and Social Services of Namibia. He is member of the Medical Association of Namibia, the Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene in Great Britain, and the New York Academy of Sciences.

    Faculty of Engineering

    The largest number of graduates awarded the medal to the 100th anniversary of V.F. Stanis graduated from the Engineering faculty: Jose Hidalgo Salazar in 1973, Patwardhan Gagan in 1975, Al-Twal Salam Fakhri in 1983, Rigoberto Hilario Santos and Georges Aoun in 1984.

    They continue to maintain contact with RUDN, creating new opportunities for the future students. Jose Hidalgo Salazar, CEO of IGGEKO LLC, became a laureate of the Order of Friendship. Al-Twal Salam Fakhri, a senior specialist in the regional office of the UN Development Program, member of the Jordan-Russia Friendship Society was awarded the Order of Friendship by the decree of the President of the Russian Federation. Rigoberto Hilario Santos, CEO of the engineering and construction company CONSUDOM SRL, member of the Presidium of the Dominican College of Architects and Geodesic Engineers, former Director of the Department of the Ministry of Public Works and Communications of the Dominican Republic, became the Ambassador of Russian Education and Science. Patwardhan Gagan, Head of Union Exports LLC, received the Order of Friendship for promoting the Russian language in Western India. Professor Georges Aoun, Head of the department of basic disciplines at the engineering faculty of the Lebanese University, organized summer schools with the Agrarian and Technological Institute, Engineering Academy and the Institute of the Russian language, as well as a double degree program with the Philological faculty of RUDN, author of a number of publication on teaching Russian as a foreign language.

    Faculty of Agriculture

    Auelbek Tokzhanov, a 1982 graduate of the Faculty of Agriculture, is currently the CEO of Skymax Technologies Group of Companies, AK Karal Diatomit Industry. He heads the UDN-RUDN Alumni and Friends Association in Kazakhstan and is a member of the expert group in the Innovative Economy direction of the Nur Otan party. Aulbek Tokzhanov is a co-founder of the Literary Alliance Public Foundation, which supports the work of Olzhas Suleimenov and young talents.

    Gupta Sudhir is a 1983 graduate of the Faculty of Agriculture and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Amtel Corporation. To support students, he has established 80 personal scholarships of 3,000 rubles per month. Gupta Sudhir was also awarded the Order of Friendship.

    V.F. Stanis anniversary medals were also awarded to 28 Russian graduates, employees and partners of RUDN University.

    Please note; this information is raw content received directly from the information source. It is an accurate account of what the source claims, and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Indonesia and RUDN: Exchange of environmental research insights

    Source: Peoples’Friendship University of Russia –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The international scientific seminar hosted by RUDN Institute of Ecology “Experience of participation in student organizations as a way to form career skills” united scholarship recipients of the International Student Mobility Awards 2024 and Open Doors, along with members of the scientific student society “GreenLab” and the professional student association “Kostyor (Bonfire)” shared their projects focused on environmental protection.

    During the international seminar, participants exchanged insights on how student-led initiatives can be implemented within university settings.

    Student research is an invaluable source of new ideas and bold solutions that play an important role in the development of science.

    Anna Popkova

    Deputy Director for International activities at the Institute of Ecology

    Among the speakers was Yusriani Mardia Arifin from Indonesia, who presented the results of her research on groundwater potential zoning in the Cisarua area of Bogor district, using cutting-edge GIS technologies.

    It is commonly believed that there is an abundance of groundwater in this area, while the study reveals a shortage. I’ve identified four distinct zones with varying groundwater potential, which will aid in more effective water resource management.

    Yusriani Mardia Arifin

    Muhammad Filzah Zulfakar introduced the Mulang project, a UNESCO-supported initiative under the “Youth as Researchers” program. This comprehensive study focuses on the village of Lovokdoro, home to waste pickers, and examines various aspects including spatial, environmental, health, economic, and social factors. The findings aim to develop strategies that can be applied to similar challenges in other villages.

    Abigail Tabita highlighted the role of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in driving sustainable development in Indonesia. With a large number of these enterprises, she sees a lot of opportunities for a stable growth in the future. Abigail shared her plans to conduct five mentoring sessions, in collaboration with the Indonesian Ministry of Trade, involving around 30 SMEs in each session. This initiative will help these businesses to adapt to evolving market demands, while exporters will gain more opportunities to expand their markets.

    International consumers are becoming increasingly aware of the importance of sustainability. They are shifting away from unsustainable practices towards more responsible approaches throughout the supply chain!

    Abigail Tabita

    The international scientific seminar served as a vibrant platform for fostering collaboration between representatives from Russia and Indonesia.

    A huge thank you to RUDN, especially the Institute of Ecology, for organizing this science workshop. It allowed us to exchange and share our projects with other international students. I look forward to many more opportunities to connect and expand our understanding of scientific advancements worldwide!

    Wahdini Aulia Rizki

    In the latter part of the event, international students were introduced to the diverse scientific activities at the PFUR Institute of Ecology. Pavel Zhigarlovich represented the professional student association “Koster,” sharing insights about the club’s scientific expeditions, historical and geographical quests, and volunteer efforts in protected areas. The Indonesian students were particularly captivated by the results of fieldwork conducted on Baikal in early 2024.

    Daniil Mironov, Vice Chairman of the Scientific Student Society “GreenLab,” also took the stage to discuss initiatives aimed at engaging students in scientific pursuits. He highlighted the association’s efforts to organize lectures with leading experts in various ecological fields, field trips, and intellectual games designed to spark curiosity and involvement.

    Seminar “Experience of Participation in Student Organizations as a Way to Build Career Skills,” marked a significant milestone in the decade of environmental science, education, and awareness at RUDN.

    Please note; this information is raw content received directly from the information source. It is an accurate account of what the source claims, and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News