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Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI Africa: 5 Reasons to Consider Payroll Outsourcing

    Source: APO

    Accurate and timely payroll impacts costs, tax compliance, and employee morale. Many organisations assume that insourced payroll is inherently superior. Yet in today’s dynamic business environment, this assumption can be more costly. It can burden valuable personnel, increase compliance risks, and saddle organisations with expensive, yet obsolete, software.

    Workplaces are becoming more complex through a wide variety of employment conditions, frequent regulation changes, and growth risks (especially when operating in multiple regions). Payroll systems don’t always keep up, which is why over a third of companies are dissatisfied with their internal payroll systems (http://apo-opa.co/45tJ0Ko).

    “The importance of accurate and timely payroll is undeniable. But assuming that insourcing payroll is inherently superior misses the mark. In today’s dynamic business environment, clinging to outdated internal systems is costly, diverts valuable personnel, and complicates software management,” says Heinrich Swanepoel, Head of Business Development at Deel Local Payroll, powered by PaySpace.

    Outsourced payroll’s strategic advantages

    Outsourcing payroll is a strategic move that adds scale and flexibility to an organisation’s operations. Whether it’s for five or five thousand employees, one office or multiple countries, using an experienced and technologically capable outsourced payroll provider creates crucial advantages in workforce management and adaptability.

    Here are five key reasons why payroll outsourcing is a game-changer:

    1. Remove Legacy System Limitations and Costs: Outdated payroll software an expose you to delays, errors, and fragmented workflows. Outsourcing with modern technology provides flexibility. Providers can efficiently handle payroll tasks regardless of onboarding surges, market expansions, or workforce adjustments.
    1. Empower Staff for Higher-Impact Work: Outsourced experts add knowledge, coupled with payroll automation, secure collaboration tools, data integration, and enhanced financial visibility. They help key personnel in payroll, HR, and finance to focus on strategic, high-value priorities.
    1. Navigate Payroll Compliance: Outsourcing specialists make it their business to know local and international tax rules, labour laws, and data regulations. They use software with built-in compliance checks, audit trails, and secure document tracking. The provider shares and even inherits the responsibility of payroll software compliance such as GDPR, POPIA, SOC 1 & 2, and ISO 27001.
    1. Flexible payroll management: Outsourced payroll providers use scalable and flexible software to align with organisational changes, enabling their clients to adapt without reconfiguring payroll departments with restructuring or new hires.
    1. Access Advanced Features: Keeping up with new features and aligning them with operations is expensive and disruptive. Outsourced payroll providers introduce cutting-edge technologies like cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and data analytics as part of their core business strategies. They offer seamless integration with client business systems for real-time, fully compliant payroll operations that the client controls without adding technical risks.

    Evaluating an outsourced payroll partner

    Outsourcing payroll creates huge advantages. But not all outsourced payroll providers are the same. The best candidates combine human expertise with the advantages of modern cloud-native payroll platforms.

    To evaluate a provider, test their payroll expertise and compliance knowledge. Security and data protection are non-negotiable, and assess their track record with other clients. Look at what software they use—the capabilities of the software and how well their people can use those features are as important as the staff’s professional capabilities. Are they masters of their tools as well as their craft?

    Interrogate their service levels and how they extend capabilities to clients, such as self-service and ad hoc reporting. Evaluate the technology platform in terms of real-time data access, automated calculations, integration with HR and accounting tools, and compliance.

    “Outsourcing payroll isn’t just about saving time — it’s a strategic move that positions your business for growth, compliance, and agility,” says Swanepoel. “With the right partner, you can reduce costs, streamline operations, and focus your energy where it matters most: on your people and your business.”

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Deel Local Payroll, powered by PaySpace.

    For media queries please contact:
    Victoria Lindsay:
    victoria@innocomm.co.za.

    About Deel Local Payroll:
    Deel Local Payroll, powered by PaySpace (www.PaySpace.com), revolutionises payroll management. It offers online, multi-country payroll and HR management for businesses from start-ups through to enterprise in over 40 African countries, the United Kingdom, the Middle East, and Brazil.

    Cloud-native, Deel Local Payroll, is scalable, configurable, highly secure, and easy-to-use—delivering anytime, anywhere access. It features payroll automation, self-service features, automatic legislation and feature updates, customised reporting, and more.

    Since 2024, Deel Local Payroll has been part of Deel, operating as an independent subsidiary, serving its customers through the PaySpace platform. 

    Media files

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    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese products deliver cool comforts to world amid heatwaves

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

    As global temperatures hit record highs and heatwaves blanket most of the Northern Hemisphere, Chinese manufacturers are stepping up with innovative cooling solutions, from advanced textiles to smart gadgets, to meet surging global demand for heat relief.

    At a new material technology company in east China’s Zhejiang Province, a batch of cooling fabric rolled off the production line and was then neatly packaged before being loaded into 18 containers for export.

    Measuring approximately 4 million meters in length, this load of fabric, valued at more than 7 million yuan (roughly 980,000 U.S. dollars), will be sold to markets in the Middle East, Europe and North America.

    Since 2021, this cool-touch material has driven average annual sales growth of about 25 percent for its manufacturer Yibei, a company based in the city of Huzhou in northern Zhejiang, while delivering heat-relief solutions to consumers worldwide, said Zhu Yifan, general manager of Yibei.

    Originally designed as a garment lining, this material’s affordability and skin-friendly comfort have fueled unexpected demand for it as a primary fabric, especially after the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, when it gained viral traction in countries like Türkiye, Egypt, Iran and the United Arab Emirates to make scarves and robes.

    The EU-funded Copernicus Climate Change Service has confirmed the year 2024, recording a global average temperature of 15.1 degrees Celsius, as the warmest year globally since 1850, and June 2025 as the world’s third-warmest June on record, reaching 16.46 degrees Celsius globally.

    Amid the global warming trend, Chinese textile manufacturers like Yibei are innovating their products and scaling production to satisfy surging demand for cooling products.

    On JD.com, a major Chinese e-commerce platform, searches for “cool touch” products reveal nearly 20 cooling items, including towels, bedsheets and pillows. The best-selling cooling towel has surpassed 4 million orders, with its inner layer containing menthol and other active cooling ingredients that release long-lasting coolness when exposed to water.

    “With intensifying global climate change and consumers’ increasing pursuit of quality of life, the demand for cooling products has prompted companies to explore different materials, techniques and functional cooling products,” said Dai Junming, an industrial expert of the modern textile technology innovation center of Zhejiang.

    A leading province in China’s textile industry, Zhejiang exported textiles and apparel worth 92 billion U.S. dollars in 2024, accounting for more than 30 percent of the country’s total.

    The cooling boom is not limited to textiles. Data from Alibaba.com, the cross-border B2B platform of China’s e-commerce giant Alibaba, show that portable mini fans, mobile air conditioners, ice makers, double-door refrigerators and freezers have emerged as popular purchased categories over the past month — with sales surging nearly 77 percent and orders increasing by 56 percent year on year.

    Before Father’s Day this year, a U.S. content creator recommended a hat as a gift in her short video on TikTok, amassing over 9 million views and sparking a buying frenzy.

    The star of the video — a sun hat designed with two solar-powered fans aimed at delivering a cool summer experience — hails from the city of Yiwu, also in Zhejiang, which is renowned as a small commodity hub that trades with over 230 countries and regions.

    At Zhejiang Senwai Garments Co., Ltd., which holds the patent for this fan hat’s production and R&D, General Manager Jiang Yongtao revealed that the hat, priced at almost 40 U.S. dollars, began test-marketing in March before surging to popularity two months later.

    Within just 28 days of its official launch, 11,100 units were sold, generating over 3.2 million yuan in revenue. To date, the company has sold some 500,000 units of these fan hats.

    “The hat provides both shade and cooling relief,” Jiang said, noting that the miniature fans can also be charged by USB on cloudy days.

    The company is also developing a winter version — a heated cap intended to transform headwear from mere accessories to therapeutic tools, thereby extending the reach of this “made-in-China” phenomenon beyond summer.

    “Hit products may become outdated, but the ability to consistently identify needs and create bestsellers never will,” Jiang said. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Serious crash Ethelton

    Source: New South Wales – News

    Police are on the scene of a serious crash at Ethelton.

    Just after 5pm today emergency services were called to the intersection of Maud Street and Carlisle Street after reports of a crash involving a motorbike.

    Carlisle Road is currently closed to traffic.

    Major Crash Investigators are attending the scene.

    Please avoid the area.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Arrest after fatal crash at Tranmere

    Source: New South Wales – News

    A man has been arrested following a fatal crash last week.

    A pedestrian was struck by a Honda sedan on Glynburn Road, near Richardson Avenue, Tranmere, just before 6am on Friday 25 July.

    Sadly, the 53-year-old Tranmere woman died at the scene.

    Neither the driver, a 21-year-old Hectorville man, nor his 24-year-old passenger were physically injured in the collision.

    Today, Thursday 31 July, Major Crash Investigators arrested the driver of the Honda. He has been charged with causing death by dangerous driving.

    He was granted police bail to appear in Adelaide Magistrates Court on 15 October.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: OLAF Director-General Ville Itälä concludes 7-year mandate

    Source: European Anti-Fraud Offfice

    Press release no. 23/2025

    PDF version

    The European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) announces the departure of Ville Itälä, who has concluded his non-renewable seven-year term as Director-General of OLAF. Itälä played a pivotal role in strengthening the EU’s fight against fraud. During his tenure, OLAF closed 1,588 investigations, recommended the recovery of over €4 billion in misused EU funds, and prevented the undue spending of more than €810 million. 

    Appointed in 2018, Mr Itälä led OLAF through a period marked by major challenges and unprecedented developments in the protection of the European Union’s financial interests – from the COVID-19 pandemic, during which OLAF prevented the undue spending of billions on fake medical supplies and vaccines, to the EU’s response to Russian invasion of Ukraine, where OLAF worked to enforce sanctions and bolster Ukraine’s anti-fraud system. 

    During Mr Itälä’s tenure, OLAF successfully concluded numerous high-profile investigations and reinforced its role as a central pillar in the EU’s anti-fraud architecture. Moreover, over the course of seven years, OLAF continuously improved its effectiveness, built capacity and competences, helped to recover misused funds, protected citizens’ health and safety and safeguarded the environment. 

    Mr Itälä also enhanced OLAF’s cooperation with key anti-fraud partners including the European Court of Auditors (ECA) Europol, Eurojust, as well as the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO), whose creation he witnessed.

    “It has been an honour to lead OLAF in its vital mission of protecting European taxpayers’ money and promoting integrity within the EU institutions. I am proud of what we have achieved together – from strengthening OLAF’s investigative capabilities to fostering strong partnerships across Europe and beyond. I extend my sincere thanks to my colleagues and partners for their unwavering dedication and professionalism,” said Ville Itälä. 

    With the conclusion of Mr Itälä’s mandate, current Deputy Director-General Salla Saastamoinen will assume the role of Acting Director-General of OLAF as of 1 August 2025, ensuring continuity of leadership until the appointment of a new Director-General, the selection process of which is ongoing. 

    OLAF remains fully committed to its mission to detect, investigate and prevent fraud and other illicit activities affecting the EU budget. The Office will continue its work in close cooperation with national, EU and international partners to safeguard Union’s financial interests. 

    Background 

    In line with procedures, the Director-General is appointed via a competitive selection process, followed by public hearings at the European Parliament and a formal appointment by the European Commission. As of the end of July 2025, the selection procedure remains in progress, with candidates being evaluated in accordance with applicable rules.

    OLAF mission, mandate and competences:
    OLAF’s mission is to detect, investigate and stop fraud with EU funds.    

    OLAF fulfils its mission by:
    •    carrying out independent investigations into fraud and corruption involving EU funds, so as to ensure that all EU taxpayers’ money reaches projects that can create jobs and growth in Europe;
    •    contributing to strengthening citizens’ trust in the EU Institutions by investigating serious misconduct by EU staff and members of the EU Institutions;
    •    developing a sound EU anti-fraud policy.

    In its independent investigative function, OLAF can investigate matters relating to fraud, corruption and other offences affecting the EU financial interests concerning:
    •    all EU expenditure: the main spending categories are Structural Funds, agricultural policy and rural development funds, direct expenditure and external aid;
    •    some areas of EU revenue, mainly customs duties;
    •    suspicions of serious misconduct by EU staff and members of the EU institutions.

    Once OLAF has completed its investigation, it is for the competent EU and national authorities to examine and decide on the follow-up of OLAF’s recommendations. All persons concerned are presumed to be innocent until proven guilty in a competent national or EU court of law.

    For further details:

    Pierluigi CATERINO
    Spokesperson
    European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF)
    Phone: +32(0)2 29-52335  
    Email: olaf-media ec [dot] europa [dot] eu (olaf-media[at]ec[dot]europa[dot]eu)
    euantifraud.bsky.social

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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: MHRA outlines intent to speed up patient access to innovative medical devices

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    MHRA outlines intent to speed up patient access to innovative medical devices

    Statement of Policy Intent sets out initial thinking on a new Early Access service to help patients benefit sooner from innovative medical devices that address unmet clinical needs.

    The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is setting out its intention to enable earlier access to innovative medical devices that address unmet clinical needs within the NHS. As part of this, capability will be invested to establish a new Early Access service to provide time-limited, conditional access to promising technologies ahead of full regulatory approval, where there is clear clinical need and supporting evidence of benefit for patients.

    Designed to support innovators, including small and medium-sized enterprises, the Early Access service aims to help bring safe and effective medical devices to patients more quickly. Focus initially will be on innovative diagnostic devices, particularly those supporting the NHS’s most urgent needs.  

    This forms part of the MHRA’s wider contribution to the UK Government’s Life Sciences Sector Plan and the 10-Year Health Plan, and supports the UK’s ambition to be a global leader in medical device innovation.

    The Early Access service will use learnings from the Unmet Clinical Need Authorisation (UCNA) tool piloted in the Innovative Devices Access Pathway (IDAP), and be shaped by stakeholder engagement with key sector representatives.

    The initiative sits within a broader programme of regulatory reform, including strengthened post-market surveillance and increased international collaboration. The MHRA will continue to work with industry, clinicians, NHS leaders and other partners to shape the pathway and support growth across the UK MedTech sector.

    Notes to editors  

    1. For more information on the statement of policy intent, visit [Statement of Policy Intent: Early Access to Innovative Medical Devices] (https://gov.uk/government/publications/statement-of-policy-intent-early-access-to-innovative-medical-devices)

    2. For more information on the Innovative Devices Accelerated Pathway (IDAP) visit the MHRA website: The Innovative Devices Access Pathway (IDAP) – GOV.UK

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Flagship play centre for disabled children

    Source: Scottish Government

    Three-year funding commitment supports expanded play and family support.

    A charity that supports disabled children and young people and their families can provide 300 more places throughout the year after opening new premises in Glasgow for the first time.

    The dedicated play centre, supported with £500,000 from the Scottish Government, joins existing premises in Dundee, Fife and Edinburgh where The Yard supports disabled children and young people, and their families.

    The new facility provides children with a sensory room, play hall and outdoor space, while also providing a meeting room for parents and carers to receive family support.

    The Scottish Government funding is part of a £2 million commitment over three years from 2024-25 to support The Yard to grow its services, including tailored support, and expand its spaces for disabled children and young people to play and socialise.

    Children and Young People’s Minister Natalie Don-Innes officially opened the new facility and joined a family session as part of The Yard’s school holiday programme.

    Ms Don-Innes said:

    “Working with charities is vital to improving outcomes for disabled children and their families. Our three-year funding will help The Yard to continue to grow and support more families across Scotland.

    “This wonderful new facility, backed by £500,000 Scottish Government funding, has allowed the Yard to expand to new premises in Glasgow for the first time. The smiles on the faces of the children and families who rely on The Yard for support show what a difference this service makes to their lives.”

    Celine Sinclair, CEO of The Yard said;

    “We are incredibly proud to launch our new Glasgow service, building on the success of our centres in Edinburgh, Dundee and Fife. The Yard team provide exemplary, safe, inclusive spaces where children can play, grow and connect, while families feel supported, empowered and included. We are just thrilled to be in the West of Scotland and would like to thank Scottish Government and our funders for helping us realise this ambition.

    “Working alongside our partners in Glasgow, this new service builds on our legacy and expands our reach to meet the needs of families and schools. As we continue developing The Yard into a nationally recognised Centre of Excellence, the opening of our Glasgow centre marks a major step forward in our mission to inspire and to help build meaningful inclusion across the country.”

    Background

    Up to £2 million funding for The Yard over three financial years from 2024-25 was confirmed in October 2023, subject to due diligence and approval of the budget by the Scottish Parliament.

    Providing this additional capital and resource funding has enabled The Yard to take forward development of a site in Glasgow and refurbishment in Dundee and to expand their existing services in Edinburgh and Fife.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Exciting new future for waterfront location

    Source: City of Plymouth

    One of the Plymouth’s waterfront locations is set for an exciting future thanks to a long-term agreement with Cattewater Harbour Commissioners.

    A 30-year lease on Commercial Wharf on Madeira Road is to be granted to the commissioners who want to invest, improve and manage the location, to continue to grow the visitor economy of marine visitors to our city from the water.

    The wharf is already home to 19 boathouses, which are used for a variety of commercial purposes, including marine, storage and leisure. The site includes the quay wall, a 17th century quay from the Mayflower Steps to a public access slipway as well as a public open space.

    The commissioner’s plan is to make the area a destination in itself, to create a more welcoming feel to this historic wharf, to attract more tourists, events, visitors and marine tourism including cruise, tall ships, superyacht and leisure passengers embarking or disembarking from the nearby Barbican Landing Stage, and visitor moorings.

    Cattewater Harbour Commissioners (CHC) took back ownership and responsibility for managing and maintaining the Barbican Landing Stage from the Council in early 2023 – a decision that not only saved the Council future maintenance costs, but meant that, CHC, as the Statutory Harbour Authority, had better access to resources and expertise to maintain the safe operation of the facility.

    Council leader Tudor Evans said: “We constantly review all our assets and as we have said before, try to find creative solutions for some of our properties that can unlock jobs, opportunities and prospects – and this certainly hits the mark.

    “It just makes sense for the wider good of the city. We do not have the resources or the expertise to carry out repairs to the sea wall – they do.

    “We still retain the long-term interest in the wharf, but this deal will allow the commissioners to create something special and look after this landmark using the expertise they have on tap. I can’t wait to see what they do!”

    Captain Richard Allan, CEO and Harbour Master, Cattewater Harbour Commissioners: “As we continue to grow the number of visiting leisure vessels to the Port, and invest in nearby facilities including toilets and showers, it’s a logical next step that we take on the lease of the wharf.

    “We have thousands of visitors who’s first experience of Plymouth is coming ashore at Commercial Wharf, we want to make this experience better, and we’re looking forward to ensuring the site provides one of the best step off points in the South West.”

    Cattewater Harbour is a trust port, an independent statutory body. There are no shareholders, or owners, and any surplus generated is reinvested into the port for the benefit of its stakeholders.

    Since April 2020, the Council’s Facilities Management have spent over £400,000 including over £300,000 on capital repairs to the sea wall. Significant capital expenditure, major repair and maintenance issues remain.

    As part of the tenancy agreement CHC will ensure the wharf remains in good repair – including structures, surfaces and sea walls. They will also be responsible for keeping the public spaces neat and tidy and have agreed to invest in critical maintenance and improvements to the site.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: York welcomes over £1 million to tackle economic inactivity

    Source: City of York

    The Get Britain Working Trailblazer programme is aimed at reducing economic inactivity and supporting residents into good jobs, volunteering, and training opportunities.

    The funding, totalling £1,038,250, comes from the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority (YNYCA) and will support a wide range of local projects targeting groups most affected by long-term unemployment, including young people, disabled residents, unpaid carers, and veterans.

    Peter Roderick, Director of Public Health at City of York Council, said:

    “This funding is a real opportunity to make a difference in the lives of York residents who face barriers to employment due to health or personal circumstances. We’re proud to be delivering a programme that puts people first—offering tailored support, improving wellbeing, and helping individuals find meaningful work. It’s about building a healthier, more inclusive city.”

    Cllr Pete Kilbane, Deputy Leader and Executive Member for Economy & Culture, added:

    “This investment aligns perfectly with our Economic Strategy and our ambition to create good jobs and a thriving local economy. By working with partners across the city, we’re scaling up what works and piloting new, innovative approaches. It’s a bold step forward in unlocking York’s hidden talent and ensuring no one is left behind.”

    The funding will support 15 York-specific schemes, including mental health hubs, youth mentoring, workplace health checks, and employer engagement initiatives. It also complements wider regional programmes such as wage subsidies and primary care interventions.

    The Council has committed to delivering all projects within the 2025/26 financial year, with a focus on collaboration, innovation, and measurable impact. A report detailing the funding will go to a joint councillor decision session on 5 August.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: 7 killed in plane crash in southern Venezuela

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    MEXICO CITY, July 30 (Xinhua) — Seven people were killed in a plane crash in the southern Venezuelan state of Amazonas on Tuesday, Venezuelan Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez said in a statement posted on social media on Wednesday.

    The plane that crashed belonged to the Venezuelan Air Force and was on a mission to transport indigenous people.

    There were ten people on board, including three crew members. The co-pilot and six passengers died in the crash, according to the statement.

    According to the minister, the repatriation of the bodies will be completed in the very near future, and the cause of the incident is being investigated. –0–

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Chinese automaker Dongfeng launches nine new models in Egypt

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    CAIRO, July 31 (Xinhua) — Chinese automaker Dongfeng launched nine new models in the Egyptian market on Wednesday.

    The launch ceremony, which took place at the Cairo International Exhibition Centre, showcased a diverse lineup of models, including the MAGE ICE compact SUV, SHINE ICE sedan, and a range of electric and hybrid vehicles: DONGFENG BOX, DONGFENG 007, MAGE EV, VOYAH FREE, VOYAH DREAM, VOYAH PASSION and MHERO 917.

    Liao Qingli, the company’s general manager for the African market, said the new vehicles for the Egyptian market reflect Dongfeng’s advanced engineering technology and innovation, as well as the company’s commitment to meeting the growing needs of Egyptian consumers, adding that the company will open a regional office in Africa and an auto parts warehouse in Egypt.

    According to the company, Dongfeng has more than 50 years of experience in automobile manufacturing, and its overseas business covers more than 100 countries and regions in Asia, Africa, South America and Europe. –0–

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China successfully launches Pakistani remote sensing satellite

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    XICHANG, July 31 (Xinhua) — China on Thursday successfully launched Pakistan’s remote sensing satellite 01.

    The launch was carried out by a Kuaizhou-1A carrier rocket at 10:00 Beijing time from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in southwest China’s Sichuan Province. The spacecraft successfully entered the designated orbit.

    Pakistan Remote Sensing Satellite 01 is primarily designed for land and natural resource census and disaster prevention and mitigation. -0-

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: New Hangzhou-Dubai flight launched

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    HANGZHOU, July 31 (Xinhua) — A new flight linking the eastern Chinese city of Hangzhou and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) city of Dubai was launched on Wednesday.

    The first passenger flight on this route arrived at Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport at about 15:24 on Wednesday. The new passenger flight will be operated daily by Emirates using Boeing 777-300ER aircraft starting from Thursday, Xiaoshan Airport Authority said, adding that the arrival of the Emirates aircraft at the airport also marked the official opening of the airport for Emirates, one of the world’s leading airlines.

    Flight EK311 is scheduled to depart Hangzhou at 00:10 Beijing time and arrive in Dubai at 04:55 local time. On the return journey, flight EK310 will leave Dubai at 09:40 local time and arrive in Hangzhou at 22:00 Beijing time. The one-way flight time is approximately 8 hours 45 minutes.

    Emirates China CEO Li Xun said Hangzhou’s vibrant cross-border e-commerce ecosystem and rich sci-tech resources are closely aligned with Dubai’s status as a free trade port.

    The launch of a new air route between the two cities will create more opportunities for their cooperation in areas such as the digital economy, international trade and passenger transportation, he noted.

    With the launch of the new route, Xiaoshan Airport now operates 10 Hangzhou-Dubai flights per week, up from the previous 3. -0-

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Delegations from China’s top universities visited Polytechnic University

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University recently hosted delegations from top Chinese universities: Tsinghua University (20th place in the QS ranking), Zhejiang University (49th place in QS), and Peking University (13th place in QS).

    Study visits to prestigious partner universities in foreign countries are a mandatory element of the educational program at Chinese universities. That is why every summer students from China come to the Polytechnic University to develop scientific and educational cooperation and exchange best practices in working with young people.

    The delegation of Tsinghua University (SPbPU’s strategic partner), headed by the deputy secretary of the party committee of the university’s Youth Union, Chen Zhihao, consisted of student activists (secretaries of faculty committees of the Komsomol, postgraduates and masters). The visit was organized within the framework of the elite program for training personnel reserves and future leaders of Tsinghua University, implemented under the auspices of the Communist Youth Union of China.

    The introduction to the history and infrastructure of SPbPU began with a tour of the Main Academic Building (White Hall, library, portrait gallery) and the SPbPU History Museum. The key point was a visit to the Youth Trajectory Center in the Polytech Tower — a modern space for student life, project activities, and interaction with industry. At a meeting with Ivan Khlamov, Head of the SPbPU Youth Policy Department, the guests discussed options for involving young people in scientific and technical creativity, project work, developing leadership skills, and a mentoring system. Colleagues from Tsinghua presented the successful experience of their university ecosystem for supporting innovation and entrepreneurship, including the Lighthouse program, Challenge Cup and Entrepreneurship Competitions, as well as the Innovation Plus incubator, which has grown hundreds of startups with a total funding of about 5 billion rubles.

    The study visit of the best students of Zhejiang University to the Polytechnic is a long-standing tradition that has been strictly observed throughout the years of strategic partnership between our universities. The envoys from the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering were led by its international coordinator Qiu Yixin.

    The program included an introduction to the historical heritage of the university, a visit to the modern laboratories of the Institute of Mechanical Engineering, Materials and Transport, and a working meeting with representatives of the SPbPU International Service. The students visited the innovative laboratories of IMMiT and learned about the latest developments of research groups and young scientists of the institute.

    Chinese students were presented with opportunities to study at SPbPU, in particular within the framework of additional programs, summer and winter schools. The guests highly appreciated the educational potential of the Polytechnic University, including that already implemented in partnership with Chinese universities, and expressed interest in creating a joint program in the field of mechanical engineering.

    In addition to students, the representative delegation from Peking University included Dean of the College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering Peng Hailin, Dean of the Faculty of Materials Science and Engineering Zou Ruqiang, Professor of the Faculty of Physics Wang Xinqiang, and other scientists.

    The visit was eventful: the guests were divided into groups according to their scientific interests to visit specialized laboratories, where they got acquainted with the advanced research of SPbPU in the field of new materials, energy and microelectronics. Of particular interest were the developments of carbon nanomaterials, artificial intelligence for chemistry and promising catalysts. The visit ended with presentations of scientific areas of both universities.

    The past visits demonstrated the mutual interest of Russian and Chinese universities in deepening cooperation, the desire to organize interaction not only between leading scientists, but also among young researchers. As noted by representatives of SPbPU, such meetings help not only to exchange best practices in education and science, but also to create a solid foundation for future joint projects, student initiatives, entrepreneurship. Particular attention was paid to student mobility, academic exchange programs, joint participation in student conferences and youth initiatives. The doors of the Polytechnic University are always open to students of partner universities in China.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Chinese carmaker Chery launches five new models in Egypt

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    CAIRO, July 31 (Xinhua) — Chinese automaker Chery has unveiled five new models as part of its strategy to expand its presence in the Egyptian market.

    At an event held earlier this week at Abdin Palace, the carmaker unveiled the Arrizo 5 FL, Arrizo 8, Tiggo 7 Pro Max, Tiggo 8 Pro Max and Tiggo 9 PHEV.

    Shen Xiantian, CEO of Chery Egypt, said the carmaker will accelerate the transition to hybrid and smart vehicle technologies and work with global partners and suppliers to build a global sales, service and production network.

    “We are currently establishing eight R&D centers, 10 manufacturing plants and parts distribution centers in key regions around the world,” Shen Xiantian said, adding that the automaker will “strengthen local partnerships to meet the needs of regional end users and partners.”

    According to the company, Chery will sell more than 580,000 new energy vehicles in 2024, up 232.7 percent year-on-year. –0–

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: New Zealand nurses strike over pay offer, staff shortages

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    WELLINGTON, July 31 (Xinhua) — More than 36,000 nurses, midwives and health care assistants across New Zealand began a 24-hour strike on Wednesday morning after talks with authorities over wages and recruitment ended in failure.

    The wages offered by the New Zealand Ministry of Health are not satisfactory for nurses and staff shortages are becoming a serious problem.

    According to national radio station Radio New Zealand, the country’s Ministry of Health offered a 3 per cent pay rise over 27 months, while the New Zealand Nurses Organisation (NZNO) counter-offered a 5 per cent pay rise over two years.

    Meanwhile, data obtained by NZNO from the New Zealand Ministry of Health shows that more than half of day shifts in hospital surgeries were understaffed last year.

    NZNO chief executive Paul Goulter has accused the government of failing to meet urgent demands for staff to fill positions identified as essential to ensure safe staffing.

    “NZNO has expressed concern about the chronic and ongoing staff shortages throughout the collective agreement negotiation process that began in September last year,” Pg Goulter said.

    However, life-saving services will continue to be provided. “The public can be assured that we have an agreement with NZNO to support life-saving services throughout the strike and our hospitals and emergency departments will continue to operate,” said New Zealand Health chief executive Dr Dale Bramley. –0–

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Over 10,000 people evacuated in southern Myanmar due to flooding

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    YANGON, July 31 (Xinhua) — A total of 10,395 people from 2,298 families have been evacuated to 24 temporary shelters due to flooding in Hpa-an township in Kayin state, state broadcaster Myanmar Radio Television reported late Wednesday.

    The evacuation was carried out by disaster management committee members, firefighters, the Myanmar Red Cross Society and community organisations on Wednesday as the water level of the Thanlwin River exceeded the danger mark due to heavy rain, the statement said.

    Water levels rose about six feet above the danger mark on Thursday and are expected to remain at that level for at least another day, according to the Department of Meteorology and Hydrology.

    The Kayin State Government, in collaboration with philanthropists, is providing basic food items, while the Ministry of Health is providing medical care and other services, the statement said. –0–

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China Improves People’s Livelihoods with Digital and Smart Services

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    BEIJING, July 31 (Xinhua) — In 2024, China made continuous efforts to implement information technology in social services such as medical care, health care, social security, employment and elderly care, bringing people a greater sense of fulfillment, happiness and security.

    By the end of 2024, the number of users of online medical services in China will reach 418 million, and the country will have 1.07 billion users of electronic social security cards, Wen Ruisong, an official with the State Internet Information Office, said on Wednesday at an event to release a report on the development of informatization in China.

    The aforementioned report states that in terms of the level of information technology development among China’s provincial-level administrative units, the top ten places are occupied by Beijing City, Zhejiang Province, Shanghai City, Guangdong Province, Jiangsu Province, Shandong Province, Fujian Province, Sichuan Province, Chongqing City and Tianjin City.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China’s manufacturing sector weakened in July, but new growth drivers are resilient

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    BEIJING, July 31 (Xinhua) — China’s manufacturing sector weakened slightly in July due to seasonal factors, but the fundamental conditions for economic growth remained in place, new industries are gaining momentum and business confidence continues to strengthen.

    China’s manufacturing purchasing managers’ index (PMI) stood at 49.3 in July, down 0.4 percentage points from June, data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) showed Thursday.

    China’s manufacturing industry has entered its traditional low season, with the situation further affected by abnormally high temperatures and natural disasters, including heavy rains and floods in some regions, said NBS statistician Zhao Qinghe.

    Despite the overall decline, Zhao Qinghe noted that a number of sub-indices showed positive dynamics. The business activity index in high-tech manufacturing was 50.6, and in equipment manufacturing – 50.3, both indicators remained above the threshold separating growth and decline.

    Market expectations have improved markedly. The business expectations index rose to 52.6, up from 52 in June. Particularly optimistic were sectors such as automobile manufacturing, railway equipment manufacturing and electrical equipment manufacturing, with their expectations indexes exceeding 55.

    Other positive signals revealed by the data include steady growth in the manufacturing index, continued price recovery and stable growth in large enterprises. -0-

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The Ministry of Economic Development supported the Kaliningrad Region’s application for the construction of the Belaya Dune resort

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Ministry of Economic Development (Russia) – Ministry of Economic Development (Russia) –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    On July 28–29, Deputy Minister of Economic Development of Russia Svyatoslav Sorokin visited the Kaliningrad Region on a working visit. One of the key topics was the development of infrastructure on the Baltic Sea coast. The Ministry of Economic Development gave a positive opinion on the region’s application to build the Belaya Dune resort — the project can receive preferential financing through the mechanism of treasury infrastructure loans.

    The resort “White Dune” near the village of Yantarny has been applied for funding under the national project “Tourism and Hospitality”. The application involves the construction of engineering infrastructure – access roads, electricity and gas supply systems.

    “The region is counting on treasury loans at 3% per annum for a period of 15 years. We have given a positive opinion on the application. The final decision will be made by the presidium of the government commission on regional development,” said Svyatoslav Sorokin.

    The main topic of the trip was monitoring the implementation of the state program “Socio-economic development of the Kaliningrad region”. Over 10 years, 400 billion rubles were allocated from the federal budget within the framework of the program. These funds made it possible to build more than 200 objects – from roads and hospitals to coastal protection.

    The Deputy Minister inspected the facilities in Svetlogorsk: work is underway to build an embankment and anti-landslide structures.

    “The program remains a strategic instrument for the development of the region. It is important that the authorities of the Kaliningrad Region respond flexibly to changes related to the challenges of the time, including the consequences of sanctions pressure on business. We also discussed options for solving these problems with colleagues. A comprehensive approach is needed: maximum use of various types of support from the federal budget and prompt development of regional programs where necessary. The Kaliningrad Region is already taking serious steps in this direction,” noted Svyatoslav Sorokin.

    Currently, the region has a Special Economic Zone with more than 300 residents. Companies have already invested over 300 billion rubles, creating jobs and tax returns.

    “SEZ residents produce about 40% of all goods and services in the region and provide half of the tax revenues. They are key employers and investors,” the deputy minister emphasized.

    During the visit, Svyatoslav Sorokin visited two key enterprises in the region. The Sodruzhestvo Group of Companies is a leading producer of plant protein for the feed industry, providing up to 15% of the needs of the entire feed industry in Russia. The company is one of the five largest taxpayers in the region.

    The Avtotor Group of Companies is one of the largest employers in the region, and together with related industries, it provides employment for over 30,000 people. The company is currently implementing a project to launch the production of compact electric vehicles on its own technological platform.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Advance estimates on Gross Domestic Product for second quarter of 2025

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The Census and Statistics Department (C&SD) released today (July 31) the advance estimates on Gross Domestic Product (GDP) for the second quarter of 2025.
     
    According to the advance estimates, GDP increased by 3.1% in real terms in the second quarter of 2025 over a year earlier, compared with the increase of 3.0% in the first quarter.
     
    Analysed by major GDP component, private consumption expenditure increased by 1.9% in real terms in the second quarter of 2025 over a year earlier, as against the decrease of 1.2% in the first quarter.
     
    Government consumption expenditure measured in national accounts terms recorded an increase of 2.5% in real terms in the second quarter of 2025 over a year earlier, compared with the increase of 0.9% in the first quarter.
     
    Gross domestic fixed capital formation increased by 2.9% in real terms in the second quarter of 2025 over a year earlier, following the increase of 1.1% in the first quarter.
     
    Over the same period, total exports of goods measured in national accounts terms recorded an increase of 11.5% in real terms over a year earlier, accelerated further from the growth of 8.4% in the first quarter. Imports of goods measured in national accounts terms grew by 12.7% in real terms in the second quarter of 2025, compared with the increase of 7.2% in the first quarter.
     
    Exports of services rose further by 7.5% in real terms in the second quarter of 2025 over a year earlier, after the increase of 6.3% in the first quarter. Imports of services increased by 7.0% in real terms in the second quarter of 2025, compared with the increase of 4.7% in the first quarter.
     
    On a seasonally adjusted quarter-to-quarter comparison basis, GDP increased by 0.4% in real terms in the second quarter of 2025 when compared with the first quarter.

    Commentary
     
    A Government spokesman said that the Hong Kong economy continued to expand solidly in the second quarter of 2025, supported by strong exports performance and improved domestic demand. According to the advance estimates, real GDP grew by 3.1% over a year earlier, picking up slightly from the preceding quarter. On a seasonally adjusted quarter-to-quarter basis, real GDP rose further by 0.4%.
     
    Analysed by major expenditure component, total exports of goods saw accelerated growth, as the external demand was resilient and the temporary easing of US tariff measures led to some “rush shipments”. Exports of services continued to expand notably, thanks to strong growth in inbound tourism, further expansion in cross-boundary traffic, and vibrant financial and related business service activities amid the buoyant local stock market. Domestically, private consumption expenditure resumed moderate growth after four consecutive quarters of decline, as supported by the stabilisation in the domestic consumption market. Meanwhile, overall investment expenditure increased further alongside the economic expansion.
     
    The Hong Kong economy exhibited remarkable resilience in the first half of 2025. Looking ahead, steady economic growth in Asia, particularly in the Mainland, combined with the Government’s various measures to bolster consumption sentiment, attract investment, diversify markets, and promote economic growth, will continue to provide steadfast support for various segments of the Hong Kong economy. Nevertheless, uncertainties in the external environment remain elevated. The US’ renewed tariff hikes of late will exert pressure on global trade flows as well as its domestic economic activity and inflation. The uncertain pace of US interest rate cuts will also affect investment sentiment. Moreover, the “rush shipment” effect is expected to fade later this year. Hong Kong’s economic performance going forward will, to a certain extent, depend on how these factors evolve.
     
    The revised figures on GDP and more detailed statistics for the second quarter of 2025, as well as the revised GDP forecast for 2025, will be released on August 15, 2025.
     
    Further information
     
    The year-on-year percentage changes of GDP and selected major expenditure components in real terms from the second quarter of 2024 to the second quarter of 2025 are shown in Table 1.
     
    When more data become available, the C&SD will compile revised figures on GDP. The revised figures on GDP and more detailed statistics for the second quarter of 2025 will be released at the C&SD website (www.censtatd.gov.hk/en/scode250.html) and the Gross Domestic Product by Expenditure Component report (www.censtatd.gov.hk/en/EIndexbySubject.html?pcode=B1030001&scode=250) on August 15, 2025.
     
    For enquiries about statistics on GDP by expenditure component, please contact the National Income Branch (1) of the C&SD (Tel: 2582 5077 or email: gdp-e@censtatd.gov.hk).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Provisional statistics of retail sales for June 2025

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Census and Statistics Department (C&SD) released the latest figures on retail sales today (July 31).

         The value of total retail sales in June 2025, provisionally estimated at $30.1 billion, increased by 0.7% compared with the same month in 2024. The revised estimate of the value of total retail sales in May 2025 increased by 2.4% compared with a year earlier. For the first half of 2025, it was provisionally estimated that the value of total retail sales decreased by 3.3% compared with the same period in 2024.

         Of the total retail sales value in June 2025, online sales accounted for 8.5%. The value of online retail sales in that month, provisionally estimated at $2.5 billion, increased by 8.4% compared with the same month in 2024. The revised estimate of online retail sales in May 2025 decreased by 1.2% compared with a year earlier. For the first half of 2025, it was provisionally estimated that the value of online retail sales decreased by 0.4% compared with the same period in 2024.

         After netting out the effect of price changes over the same period, the provisional estimate of the volume of total retail sales in June 2025 decreased by 0.3% compared with a year earlier. The revised estimate of the volume of total retail sales in May 2025 increased by 1.9% compared with a year earlier. For the first half of 2025, the provisional estimate of the total retail sales decreased by 4.7% in volume compared with the same period in 2024.

         Analysed by broad type of retail outlet in descending order of the provisional estimate of the value of sales and comparing June 2025 with June 2024, the value of sales of jewellery, watches and clocks, and valuable gifts increased by 6.8%. This was followed by sales of other consumer goods not elsewhere classified (+7.2% in value); commodities in supermarkets (+0.4%); medicines and cosmetics (+6.0%); commodities in department stores (+5.7%); and optical shops (+1.0%).

         On the other hand, the value of sales of wearing apparel decreased by 4.3% in June 2025 over a year earlier. This was followed by sales of food, alcoholic drinks and tobacco (-1.5% in value); electrical goods and other consumer durable goods not elsewhere classified (-9.3%); motor vehicles and parts (-6.0%); fuels (-8.7%); furniture and fixtures (-16.3%); footwear, allied products and other clothing accessories (-7.2%); Chinese drugs and herbs (-2.0%); and books, newspapers, stationery and gifts (-4.7%).

         Based on the seasonally adjusted series, the provisional estimate of the value of total retail sales increased by 0.3% in the second quarter of 2025 compared with the preceding quarter, while the provisional estimate of the volume of total retail sales increased by 2.7%.
     
    Commentary

         A government spokesman said that retail sales showed signs of stabilisation in recent months. The value of total retail sales increased further by 0.7% in June 2025 over the year.

         Looking ahead, the spokesman said continued increase in employment earnings, buoyant local stock market, coupled with the Government’s proactive efforts in promoting tourism and mega events and also enterprises’ strenuous effort in providing more diversified experiences would provide support to the consumption sentiment in the domestic market and businesses of the retail sector.

    Further information

         Table 1 presents the revised figures on value index and value of retail sales for all retail outlets and by broad type of retail outlet for May 2025 as well as the provisional figures for June 2025. The provisional figures on the value of retail sales for all retail outlets and by broad type of retail outlet as well as the corresponding year-on-year changes for the first half of 2025 are also shown.

         Table 2 presents the revised figures on value of online retail sales for May 2025 as well as the provisional figures for June 2025. The provisional figures on year-on-year changes for the first half of 2025 are also shown.

         Table 3 presents the revised figures on volume index of retail sales for all retail outlets and by broad type of retail outlet for May 2025 as well as the provisional figures for June 2025. The provisional figures on year-on-year changes for the first half of 2025 are also shown.

         Table 4 shows the movements of the value and volume of total retail sales in terms of the year-on-year rate of change for a month compared with the same month in the preceding year based on the original series, and in terms of the rate of change for a three-month period compared with the preceding three-month period based on the seasonally adjusted series.

         The classification of retail establishments follows the Hong Kong Standard Industrial Classification (HSIC) Version 2.0, which is used in various economic surveys for classifying economic units into different industry classes.

         These retail sales statistics measure the sales receipts in respect of goods sold by local retail establishments and are primarily intended for gauging the short-term business performance of the local retail sector. Data on retail sales are collected from local retail establishments through the Monthly Survey of Retail Sales (MRS). Local retail establishments with and without physical shops are covered in MRS and their sales, both through conventional shops and online channels, are included in the retail sales statistics.

         The retail sales statistics cover consumer spending on goods but not on services (such as those on housing, catering, medical care and health services, transport and communication, financial services, education and entertainment) which account for over 50% of the overall consumer spending. Moreover, they include spending on goods in Hong Kong by visitors but exclude spending outside Hong Kong by Hong Kong residents. Hence they should not be regarded as indicators for measuring overall consumer spending.

         Users interested in the trend of overall consumer spending should refer to the data series of private consumption expenditure (PCE), which is a major component of the Gross Domestic Product published at quarterly intervals. Compiled from a wide range of data sources, PCE covers consumer spending on both goods (including goods purchased from all channels) and services by Hong Kong residents whether locally or abroad. Please refer to the C&SD publication “Gross Domestic Product by Expenditure Component” for more details.

         More detailed statistics are given in the “Report on Monthly Survey of Retail Sales”. Users can browse and download this publication at the website of the C&SD (www.censtatd.gov.hk/en/EIndexbySubject.html?pcode=B1080003&scode=530).

         Users who have enquiries about the survey results may contact the Distribution Services Statistics Section of the C&SD (Tel: 3903 7400; email: mrs@censtatd.gov.hk).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Student subsidies criteria revised

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Government today announced the revision of the eligibility criteria for government-subsidised post-secondary student places and subsidies.

    The revision – which will introduce two categories of tuition fees and revise the eligibility criteria – will apply to the 2027-28 academic year and thereafter.

    Under the current admissions arrangements, dependant visa/entry permit holders who were below 18 years old when first issued with the visa/entry permit by the Immigration Department (ImmD) are considered local students.

    There has been recent concern that some of these students did not come to reside in Hong Kong but applied for government-subsidised student places at University Grants Committee-funded universities as local students, which affected opportunities for university admission and the targeted use of public funds.

    Having regard to overseas practices and the practical situation in Hong Kong, the Education Bureau considers it necessary for dependant children to reside in Hong Kong for two years before becoming eligible for government-subsidised post-secondary student places.

    In addition, holders of a full-time employment visa/work permit or a visa/entry permit for various admission schemes will no longer be eligible for government-subsidised post-secondary student places.

    The two categories of tuition fees being introduced are subsidised fees and non-subsidised fees respectively.

    Persons holding specific documents are eligible for government-subsidised student places in relation to sub-degree, undergraduate and taught postgraduate programmes.

    These documents include a Hong Kong permanent identity card, other documents issued by the ImmD showing the right to land/right of abode in Hong Kong, and a visa label for unconditional stay; a One-way Permit for entry to Hong Kong; and a dependant visa/entry permit.

    Holders of a dependant visa/entry permit who were below 18 years old when first issued with the visa/entry permit by the ImmD, must have resided in Hong Kong for two years immediately preceding the first day of their respective programmes. 

    The Government will put in place a transitional arrangement for the revision, whereby the residency requirement for the 2027-28 academic year will be set at one year. The two-year residency requirement will be implemented starting from the 2028-29 academic year.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Active and autonomous ageing in focus at high-level meeting

    Source: Government of Sweden

    Demographic changes in Europe are having an immense impact on our societies and entail challenges, not least for the labour market, pension systems and an increased need for health and social care. The Swedish Presidency has invited EU Member States and other actors to a high-level meeting on active and autonomous ageing, 13 –14 February, where they will discuss how to tackle the issues related to Europe’s ageing population. Minister for Older People and Social Security Anna Tenje will host the conference. Among the participants will be the Estonian Minister of Social Protection, the Danish Minister for Senior Citizens, and the Minister for Active Ageing from Malta.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Masked and armed agents are arresting people on US streets as aggressive immigration enforcement ramps up

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Dafydd Townley, Teaching Fellow in US politics and international security, University of Portsmouth

    There are masked men, and some women, on the streets in American cities, sometimes travelling in unmarked cars, often carrying weapons and wearing military-style kit. They have the power to identify, arrest, detain non-citizens and deport undocumented immigrants. They also have the right to interrogate any individual who they believe is not a citizen over their right to remain in the US.

    These are agents from US Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency, known as Ice. This is a federal law enforcement agency, which falls under the control of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and is playing a significant and contentious role in the implementation of Donald Trump’s tough immigration policy.

    On the campaign trail Trump promised “the largest domestic deportation operation in American history”. And he is giving Ice more power to deliver his plans.

    Since Trump took office in January, Ice funding has been significantly increased. Trump’s “big beautiful bill”, passed by Congress in July 2025, gave Ice US$75 billion (£55 billion) of funding for the next four years, up from around US$8 billion a year.

    This funding boost will allow the agency to recruit more agents as well as adding thousands more beds plus extensions to buildings to increase the capacity of detention centres. There is also new funding for advanced surveillance tools including AI-assisted facial recognition and mobile data collection. There’s another US$30 billion going to frontline operations, covering removing immigrants and transport to detention centres.

    The president has committed to deporting everyone who is in the US illegally, that is estimated by the Wall Street Journal to be about 4% of the current US population. For the past five months, the numbers of people being picked up by Ice agents has been ticking up fast.

    Average daily arrests were up 268% to about 1,000 a day in June 2025, compared with the same month a year earlier. This was also a 42% rise on May 2025, according to data analysis from the Guardian and the Deportation Data Project. However, this is still considerably short of the 3,000 a day ordered by secretary of homeland security Kristi Noem and White House deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller.

    Ice’s tactics have already attracted significant criticism. Right-leaning broadcaster Fox News has reported on how masked agents are not showing ID or naming their agency when picking up people in raids. Other reporting has highlighted allegations that American citizens are also sometimes being swept up in the raids.

    The agency, currently led by acting director Todd M. Lyons, has three main divisions: the Enforcement and Removal Operations division, which identifies and deports undocumented immigrants as well as manages detention centres. The Homeland Security Investigations, which investigates criminal activities with an international or border nexus such as human trafficking, narcotics, and weapons smuggling. The Office of the Principal Legal Advisor provides legal advice to Ice and prosecutes immigration cases in court.

    Lyons claimed that mask wearing was necessary because of Ice agents being “doxed” – when a person’s personal information such as names and home addresses are revealed online without their permission. Assaults on Ice agents have risen, he claimed. DHS data suggested that there were 79 assaults on Ice agents from January to June 2025, compared to ten in the same period in 2024.

    Democratic House minority leader Hakeem Jeffries compared mask wearing by Ice agents to secret police forces in authoritarian regimes. “We’re not behind the Iron Curtain. This is not the 1930s.”



    Read more:
    ICE has broad power to detain and arrest noncitizens – but is still bound by constitutional limits

    The Ice agency was established in 2003 by the George W. Bush administration, partly as a result of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, and was part of a broader reorganisation of federal agencies under the then newly created DHS. It incorporated parts of the former Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) and some elements of the US Customs Service.

    According to the agency’s website, Ice’s core mission is “to protect America through criminal investigations and enforcing immigration laws to preserve national security and public safety”.

    News coverage of Ice agents wearing masks and not identifying themselves.

    What’s changed?

    At the start of the administration in January, the White House gave Ice the authority to hasten the deportation of immigrants that had entered the country with government authorisation during the previous administration. This “expedited removal” authority allowed Ice to deport individuals without requiring an appearance before an immigration judge.

    As arrests have grown in the past months, Lyons told CBS News that Ice would detain any undocumented immigrant, even if they did not have a criminal record.

    And the Trump administration has also allowed Ice agents to make arrests at immigration courts, which had previously been off limits. This restriction was introduced by the Biden administration in 2021 to ensure witnesses, victims of crimes and defendants would still appear in court without fear of arrest for immigration violations, unless the target was a national security threat.

    Protests over Ice raids have spread across California.

    However, Lyons rescinded those restrictions in May, part of a broader shift towards aggressive enforcement.

    Much of the time, Ice has targeted illegal immigrants. But the agency has also arrested and detained some individuals who were residents (green card holders) or tourists – and, in some cases, citizens.

    In recent weeks, according to the Washington Post, Ice has been ordered to increase the number of immigrants shackled with GPS-enabled ankle monitors. This would significantly increase the number of immigrants that are under surveillance. Ankle monitors also restrict where people can travel.

    Sparking protests

    There have been numerous public protests about Ice raids, most notably in California. This peaked on June 6 after Ice had conducted numerous raids in Los Angeles, resulting in clashes between agents and protesters. This led to the White House sending around 2,000 National Guard troops and 700 Marines to Los Angeles, despite opposition from California governor Gavin Newsom.

    Part of the friction between the Trump administation and the state is that Los Angeles and San Francisco have adopted local policies to limit cooperation with federal immigration authorities including Ice. California has sanctuary laws, such as SB 54, that prohibit local police and sheriffs from assisting Ice with civil immigration enforcement.

    However, Trump shows every sign of pushing harder and faster to crack down on illegal immigrants, and Ice agents are clearly at the forefront of how he aims to do it.

    Dafydd Townley 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. Masked and armed agents are arresting people on US streets as aggressive immigration enforcement ramps up – https://theconversation.com/masked-and-armed-agents-are-arresting-people-on-us-streets-as-aggressive-immigration-enforcement-ramps-up-261499

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: RSV vaccine prevents hospitalisation in older people and newborns

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    RSV vaccine prevents hospitalisation in older people and newborns

    RSV vaccines are 82% effective for older people and 72% for newborns when mothers are vaccinated at least 14 days before birth.

    A new UK Health Security Agency study – Effectiveness of RSV Vaccine Against RSV Associated Hospitalisation Among Adults Aged 75 to 79 years in England – in partnership with Nottingham University Hospitals and other NHS trusts, shows the RSV vaccine provided strong protection for older people, around 82% effective in preventing hospital admissions with RSV infection.

    The study also found that the vaccine is highly effective in preventing hospitalisation for older people with a chronic respiratory condition and those living with immunosuppression.

    Two new Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) vaccination programmes were introduced to the NHS Vaccination Schedule in September last year; an older adults programme and a maternal programme.

    The programme for older adults offers the vaccine to those turning 75, as well as a one-off catch up campaign for all adults aged 75 to79 years.

    The maternal vaccination programme is offered to women from 28 weeks of pregnancy to protect newborns, who are at higher risk of severe illness from RSV.

    A separate new study – Vaccination in Pregnancy and RSV Hospitalisation in Infants in the UK, led by NHS paediatricians, published in the Lancet Child and Adolescent Health – found that  the maternal RSV vaccine was 72% effective in preventing hospitalisation for infants whose mothers were vaccinated more than 14 days before delivery.

    UKHSA has also today published the latest vaccine uptake figures for both RSV programmes, including the:

    • older adults programme: overall coverage as of 30 June 2025 in the catch-up cohort (adults aged 75 to 79) reached 62.9%, up from the 60.3% reported in March
    • maternal programme: of the 36,657 women reported as having given birth in March 2025, 20,051 (54.7%) had received an RSV vaccine
    • maternal coverage varied by ethnic group with the highest coverage reported among the Chinese ethnic group (73.3%) and lowest among Black and Black British Caribbean (26.4%)

    Greta Hayward, Consultant Midwife at the UK Health Security Agency, said:

    Having the RSV vaccine during every pregnancy is the best way for women to protect their newborn against RSV, as the vaccine boosts their immune system to produce more antibodies against the virus, and these then pass through the placenta to help protect their baby from the day they are born. RSV infects around 90% of children in their first 2 years of life.

    The RSV season usually starts in October and while there is no risk-free birth month, babies born in late summer or the autumn are most likely to be admitted to hospital. Hundreds of babies attend Emergency Departments each day for bronchiolitis through most of November and December. That is why it is so important that over the summer pregnant women reaching 28 weeks of pregnancy, ensure they are vaccinated as soon as possible.

    Dr Conall Watson, Immunisation Consultant at the UK Health Security Agency, said:

    The evidence clearly shows the RSV vaccine for pregnant women is highly effective and will give much reassurance to parents, knowing their newborn is protected from birth, when they are at much greater risk from RSV.

    As a parent and health professional I can’t stress enough the importance of getting the RSV vaccine during every pregnancy. We recommend vaccination in week 28 or soon after but if you are later on in your pregnancy and still haven’t had your vaccine please contact your maternity service or GP practice to arrange one.

    RSV can be a particularly serious infection for older people, so this new evidence will also give much reassurance that having the RSV jab will greatly reduce their chances of ending up in hospital.

    While the uptake of the RSV vaccine continues to rise, we want to see every single pregnant woman and eligible older person getting protected. The virus picks up in the autumn, so don’t put if off over the summer – as soon as you reach your 75th birthday or week 28 of pregnancy get the vaccine for healthy peace of mind.

    UKHSA has published its first RSV Annual Report, which looks back at the 2024 to 2025 RSV season, providing analysis on disease pattern, vaccine uptake and vaccine impact.

    The surveillance shows RSV activity started across all UK nations around week 42 of 2024 (week starting 14 October) and peaked around weeks 47 to 49 2024 (18 November to 8 December), before steadily declining and reaching baseline activity around weeks 7 to 8 2025 (10 to 23 February).

    The Report also details UKHSA’s analysis from the primary care surveillance, which involves swabbing in around 300 GP Practices in England when a patient presents with an acute respiratory infection (ARI). This found that by age group, the highest RSV positivity (% of laboratory confirmed RSV cases out of total ARI swabs) was observed in children under 5 years; with positivity peaking at 53.1% in week 46 (11-17 November).

    Among those aged 75 years and above, the highest RSV positivity rate was 18.5% reported in week 49 (2 to 8 December).

    Surveillance of patients attending hospital emergency departments (ED) in England found that among infants (babies under 1), bronchiolitis peaked in late November. This is the main clinical presentation of infant RSV and RSV is the primary pathogen causing bronchiolitis.

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: AI to stop prison violence before it happens

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    AI to stop prison violence before it happens

    Prison officers will use artificial intelligence (AI) to stop violence before it breaks out under new plans set out by the Lord Chancellor today (31 July).

    • Clampdown on violence in prisons as AI helps to identify dangerous prisoners and bring them under tight supervision
    • AI will also be used to uncover secret messages sent by prisoners and stop weapons or contraband getting into prisons  
    • Ministry of Justice’s AI Action Plan sets out how tech will cut reoffending and make streets safe as part of Plan for Change

    Under the Ministry of Justice’s AI Action Plan artificial intelligence predicts the risk an offender could pose and informs decisions to put dangerous prisoners under tighter supervision to cut crime and deliver swifter justice for victims. This will help to cut reoffending and make our streets safe, part of the Plan for Change. 

    AI will be used across prisons, probation and courts to better track offenders and assess the risk they pose with tools that can predict violence behind bars, uncover secret messages sent by prisoners and connect offender records across different systems. 

    The AI violence predictor analyses different factors such as a prisoner’s age and previous involvement in violent incidents while in custody. This will help prison officers assess threat levels on wings and intervene or move prisoners before violence escalates. 

    Another AI tool will be able to digitally scan the contents of mobile phones seized from prisoners to rapidly flag messages that could provide intelligence on potential crimes being committed behind bars, such as secret code words. 

     This will allow staff to discover potential threats of violence to other inmates or prison officers as well as plans to escape and smuggle in weapons or contraband. 

     These phones – often used for gang activity, drug trafficking and intimidation – are a major source of violence in prisons. 

    This technology, which uses AI-driven language analysis, has already been trialled across the prison estate and has analysed over 8.6 million messages from 33,000 seized phones.  

    Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice, Shabana Mahmood, said:

    Artificial intelligence will transform the justice system. We are embracing its full potential as part of our Plan for Change.

    These tools are already fighting violence in prisons, tracking offenders, and releasing our staff to focus on what they do best: cutting crime and making our streets safer.

    The AI Action Plan also outlines how the department will create a single digital ID for all offenders with AI helping to link separate records across courts, prisons and probation for the first time. 

    This will match records that may never be linked through old search systems due to slight typos or missing words, meaning greater monitoring and more effective sentencing. 

    In the Probation Service, AI pilots have already shown a 50% reduction in note-taking time, allowing officers to focus on risk management, monitoring and face-to-face meetings with offenders.  

     Building on this success, the tool will be rolled out to all probation officers, and potentially in prisons and courts too. 

    The AI Action Plan also sets out how technology can ease pressure on courts and improve services for the public.  This includes a digital assistant is being developed to help families resolve child arrangement disputes outside of court. 

    Alexander Iosad, Director of Government Innovation Policy at the Tony Blair Institute, said:

    This Action Plan shows exactly the kind of ambition we need across government to embrace AI for a genuine renewal of our public services. If implemented well and at pace, these technologies won’t just ease the pressure on our prisons but also help offenders receive the personalised support they need for effective rehabilitation, making streets safer, and ensuring that victims facing incredibly difficult moments get the justice they deserve. This is what modern, data-driven public service reform to deliver real change for citizens should look like.

    Earlier this year, the Lord Chancellor set out her vision for the Probation Service, which included a £8 million pledge to introduce new technology to help risk assess offenders and cut back on admin, increasing focus on those offenders who pose the greatest risk to the public.  

    In the Spending Review, the Government announced that the Probation Service will receive up to £700 million, an almost 45% increase in funding. This new funding will mean tens of thousands more offenders can be tagged and monitored in the community.

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Aurora Mobile and Figma: Unleashing Design to Drive Innovation

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SHENZHEN, China, July 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Aurora Mobile Limited (NASDAQ: JG) (“Aurora Mobile” or the “Company”), a leading provider of customer engagement and marketing technology services in China, today announced that it plans to incorporate products from Figma, a world – renowned design platform, into its service offerings. Figma’s tools will empower Aurora Mobile to revolutionize the way it approaches design within its business model, ecosystems, and various services.

    How Aurora Mobile’s Business Model Will Benefit from Figma

    Aurora Mobile’s business model is centered on providing comprehensive services to mobile app developers, leveraging vast amounts of real – time and anonymous device – level mobile behavioral data. By integrating Figma’s design services, Aurora Mobile can enhance the user interface (UI) and user experience (UX) of its own platforms and the solutions it offers its clients.
    Figma’s intuitive design tools will enable Aurora Mobile’s design teams to create more engaging and user – friendly interfaces for its data analytics dashboards, marketing campaign management platforms, and customer engagement tools.

    Strengthening Aurora Mobile’s Ecosystem with Figma

    Aurora Mobile has built a robust ecosystem with partnerships across multiple industries, including mobile app developers, telecommunications carriers, data analytics providers, and AI technology firms. Figma’s stools will play a crucial role in enhancing the design – related aspects of this ecosystem.

    For mobile app developers within Aurora Mobile’s network, Figma’s design capabilities can be integrated into the app development process. Designers and developers can collaborate more efficiently using Figma’s real – time collaboration features, ensuring that the final versions of apps have a seamless and attractive design. This will not only improve the quality of apps but also reduce the time – to – market.

    In the context of vertical application service offerings, Figma can be leveraged to design more effective data visualization tools. By presenting data in a more visually appealing and understandable way, Aurora Mobile can help its partners to extract deeper insights from the data, leading to better – informed business decisions.

    With the services of Figma, Aurora Mobile can enhance the design of its AI – powered solutions, such as GPTBots.ai. A well – designed interface for AI agents can improve user interaction, making it easier for enterprises to use these services and unlocking greater value from the AI technology.

    Mr. Weidong Luo, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Aurora Mobile, commented, “We are thrilled about the potential of integrating Figma’s services into our operations. Design is playing an increasingly vital role in the success of our services and the overall user experience. By leveraging Figma’s world – class design platform, we will drive innovation across our business model, ecosystems, and services, ultimately delivering greater value to our customers and partners.”

    About Aurora Mobile Limited

    Founded in 2011, Aurora Mobile (NASDAQ: JG) is a leading provider of customer engagement and marketing technology services in China. Since its inception, Aurora Mobile has focused on providing stable and efficient messaging services to enterprises and has grown to be a leading mobile messaging service provider with its first-mover advantage. With the increasing demand for customer reach and marketing growth, Aurora Mobile has developed forward-looking solutions such as Cloud Messaging and Cloud Marketing to help enterprises achieve omnichannel customer reach and interaction, as well as artificial intelligence and big data-driven marketing technology solutions to help enterprises’ digital transformation.

    For more information, please visit https://ir.jiguang.cn/.

    Safe Harbor Statement

    This announcement contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” “confident” and similar statements. Among other things, the Business Outlook and quotations from management in this announcement, as well as Aurora Mobile’s strategic and operational plans, contain forward-looking statements. Aurora Mobile may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its reports to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, in its annual report to shareholders, in press releases and other written materials and in oral statements made by its officers, directors or employees to third parties. Statements that are not historical facts, including but not limited to statements about Aurora Mobile’s beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement, including but not limited to the following: Aurora Mobile’s strategies; Aurora Mobile’s future business development, financial condition and results of operations; Aurora Mobile’s ability to attract and retain customers; its ability to develop and effectively market data solutions, and penetrate the existing market for developer services; its ability to transition to the new advertising-driven SAAS business model; its ability to maintain or enhance its brand; the competition with current or future competitors; its ability to continue to gain access to mobile data in the future; the laws and regulations relating to data privacy and protection; general economic and business conditions globally and in China and assumptions underlying or related to any of the foregoing. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. All information provided in this press release and in the attachments is as of the date of the press release, and Aurora Mobile undertakes no duty to update such information, except as required under applicable law.

    For more information, please contact:

    Aurora Mobile Limited
    E-mail: ir@jiguang.cn

    Christensen

    In China
    Ms. Xiaoyan Su
    Phone: +86-10-5900-1548
    E-mail: Xiaoyan.Su@christensencomms.com

    In US
    Ms. Linda Bergkamp
    Phone: +1-480-614-3004
    Email: linda.bergkamp@christensencomms.com

    The MIL Network –

  • London’s Heathrow hit by more flight cancellations after air traffic failure

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    At least 16 flights to and from London’s Heathrow Airport were cancelled on Thursday, a day after technical problems with Britain’s air traffic control system caused widespread disruption across the country’s airports.

    National Air Traffic Services (NATS), which provides air traffic control services for planes flying in UK airspace and the eastern part of the North Atlantic, said on Wednesday its systems were fully operational with capacity returning to normal after it switched to a back-up system.

    The second outage in as many years at NATS also affected Gatwick Airport near London, Edinburgh Airport in Scotland and other locations, resulting in 122 cancellations as of 1830 GMT on Wednesday, according to aviation analytics firm Cirium.

    Heathrow’s website showed that at least 16 flights, including departures to Brussels and Toronto and arrivals from New York and Berlin, had been cancelled on Thursday.

    Heathrow, Britain’s largest and Europe’s busiest airport, did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment on the latest cancellations.

    Ryanair Chief Operating Officer Neal McMahon called on NATS chief executive Martin Rolfe to resign, saying no lessons had been learnt since the August 2023 disruption caused by a malfunctioning in the automatic processing of flight plans.

    NATS, which on Wednesday apologised to those affected by the failure, did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for a response to McMahon’s comments.

    Heathrow was also hit by a fire at a power sub-station in March which stranded thousands of passengers.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI China: ‘The Yellow River’ dance epic shines at Xinjiang Intl Dance Festival

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

    Shanxi Song and Dance Theatre performs “The Yellow River” at the Urumqi Peking Opera House, July 29, 2025. [Photo by Ma Siyuan/China.org.cn]

    Dance epic “The Yellow River,” directed by renowned Chinese artist Zhang Jigang and created by Shanxi Song and Dance Theatre, was staged at the 7th China Xinjiang International Dance Festival on July 29-30. Marking the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, the work utilizes the Yellow River as its central image, interpreting the unyielding Chinese national spirit through a unique artistic language.

    “The Yellow River” unfolds the spiritual scroll of the Chinese nation in three acts: The first act reproduces the dawn of civilization with primitive and unrestrained dance moves; the second act focuses on the suffering and struggles during the war against Japanese aggression; and the third act outlines the spirit of forging-ahead in the new era with red silk ribbon dancing.

    Director Zhang Jigang and performers of “The Yellow River” on stage at Urumqi Peking Opera House, July 29, 2025. [Photo by Ma Siyuan/China.org.cn]

    Director Zhang Jigang emphasized that through chapters such as “The Indignation of the Yellow River” and “Defend the Yellow River,” the work condenses memories of the war into a spiritual declaration that “the Chinese nation cannot be humiliated.”

    As a dance epic, “The Yellow River” breaks the boundaries of traditional dance with its subversive stage language. The performers crawl in mud, fight in water currents and perform difficult lifts on a suspended cloth — these unique movements becoming carriers for interpreting the spirit of the Yellow River.

    Zhang also explained that dancing on the cloth is a metaphor for the resilience of the Chinese nation, and was designed to let the audience feel the weight of history while evoking a sense of awe.

    The fusion of music and dance further highlighted the epic temperament. The passion of the piano concerto interwove with the profoundness of the symphony, forming a perfect dialogue between the “musical” and the “dancing” Yellow River.

    Yang Qian, the lead actress who plays the personification of the Yellow River, mentioned that the biggest difference between a dance epic and a traditional dance drama lies in “striking the heart with a five- or six-minute chapter.”

    Talking about her role, Yang said, “The Yellow River is not a specific river, but a microcosm of thousands of Chinese mothers — having the tenderness of water and the tenacity of the loess land.” In the chapter “The Lullaby of the Yellow River,” she interpreted the river’s nurturing power as the cradle of Chinese civilization with the body language of “taking the sky as a quilt and the earth as a bed.”

    As a hub on the ancient Silk Road, Xinjiang has always been a fertile ground for the integration of diverse cultures. As Zhang explained, “The simple beauty of Xinjiang forms a wonderful echo with the profound civilization carried by the Yellow River.” At the 7th China Xinjiang International Dance Festival, “The Yellow River” and the dance arts of all ethnic groups in Xinjiang shone together, jointly interpreting the diversity and unity of Chinese culture.

    Zhang has a deep affection for Xinjiang, recalling how he felt “a peaceful soul as pure as water” when visiting the region’s Sayram Lake. In the dance epic, the concept of simplifying plots, intensifying emotions, downplaying regional traits and enhancing international appeal has elevated the Yellow River from a mere river to a symbol of the world’s great river civilizations.

    By staging the work in Urumqi, the performance served as both a review of the national spirit of the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression 80 years ago and a tribute to the present-day cultural integration.

    MIL OSI China News –