Category: Transport

PM Modi begins historic Argentina visit by paying tribute to country’s liberator

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday began his historic visit to Argentina by paying respects at the statue of General Jose de San Martin, the country’s revered freedom fighter and national hero, in Buenos Aires.

PM Modi laid a wreath and paid tribute at the San Martin Memorial, marking the first bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the South American nation in 57 years.

General Jose de San Martin is recognised as the liberator of Argentina, and the monument was created in 1862 by French sculptor Louis Joseph Daumas. It was the first equestrian statue in Buenos Aires.

San Martin led crucial phases of Argentina’s struggle for independence between 1813 and 1818 — defeating Spanish forces at the Battle of San Lorenzo, reorganising the Army of the North, becoming Governor of Cuyo, and creating the Army of the Andes, which he led across the mountains into Chile to liberate the neighbouring country from Spanish rule. He later moved north to help liberate Peru in 1820.

Later, the PM was warmly received by Argentina’s President Javier Milei at the historic Casa Rosada as the two leaders began bilateral engagements.

PM Modi arrived in Argentina early Saturday on the third leg of his five-nation tour, following visits to Ghana and Trinidad and Tobago earlier in the week. The tour will continue with visits to Brazil (July 5–8) and Namibia (July 9).

The Prime Minister was accorded a ceremonial welcome ahead of delegation-level talks, followed by a lunch hosted by President Milei in his honour.

Argentina has been a strategic partner of India since 2019, and the two countries celebrated 75 years of diplomatic relations last year.

The visit comes at a particularly significant time, as Argentina is undertaking major economic reforms that mirror those India implemented in the past, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) noted ahead of the visit.

Both leaders are expected to discuss economic and trade matters to further strengthen bilateral relations.

“India’s advancements in defence manufacturing, the space sector, and new areas such as information technology and Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) can offer valuable expertise. We can share experiences with Argentina. Our expertise in telemedicine and digital healthcare solutions is also on offer to help Argentina expand access to medical services and improve overall quality and cost-effective healthcare delivery,” said MEA Secretary (East) P. Kumaran during a special media briefing ahead of the PM’s visit.

The leaders are also expected to review ongoing cooperation and explore ways to enhance the India-Argentina partnership in key areas, including defence, agriculture, mining, oil and gas, renewable energy, trade and investment, and people-to-people ties.

India and Argentina have made significant progress in bilateral cooperation in the mineral resources sector, particularly lithium — a key element in India’s green energy transition. An MoU on cooperation in mineral resources was signed in August 2022, and the first meeting of the Joint Working Group under the MoU was held in January 2025.

“Argentina holds the world’s second-largest shale gas reserves and the fourth-largest shale oil reserves, along with substantial conventional oil and gas deposits, making it a potentially important energy partner for India. Its rich reserves of critical minerals such as lithium, copper, and rare earth elements complement India’s growing need for secure and sustainable supplies for clean energy and industrial growth. India’s public sector enterprise KABIL has already secured a few concessions in Argentina since 2024. Our leaders will discuss this further,” Kumaran added.

Notably, India-Argentina bilateral trade more than doubled in three years — from 2019 to 2022 — peaking at USD 6.4 billion in 2022. In 2021 and 2022, India was Argentina’s fourth-largest trading partner. Argentina is a key supplier of edible oils — particularly soybean and sunflower oil — to India. In 2024, total annual bilateral trade rose by 33 percent to USD 5.23 billion, positioning India as Argentina’s fifth-largest trading partner and export destination.

—IANS

July 6, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: 9 killed, 11 injured in minibus collision in northern Egypt

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

CAIRO, July 5 (Xinhua) — At least nine people were killed and 11 others injured on Saturday when two minibuses collided on a highway in Egypt’s northern Menoufia province, the Egyptian Ministry of Health and Population said in a statement.

The department reported that the victims were taken to hospitals in Menoufia for emergency medical care.

According to Egyptian news site Yom7, a preliminary investigation has shown that speeding may have been the cause of the accident. –0–

MIL OSI Russia News –

July 6, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Congestion Pricing Succeeding in Reducing Traffic
Source: US State of New York

overnor Kathy Hochul and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) today announced that in its first six months, New York City’s congestion pricing program has succeeded in reducing traffic and raising revenues to fund transit improvements across the region, while economic activity in New York City has flourished. Activated at 12:00 am on January 5th, the nation’s first urban congestion pricing program reduces gridlock in Manhattan’s Congestion Relief Zone (CRZ) below 60th Street by charging motorists to enter the zone. Revenue from congestion pricing is on track to reach the forecasted $500 million in 2025, allowing the MTA to advance $15 billion in critical capital improvements to mass transit on its subway, bus, Long Island Rail Road, and Metro-North Railroad systems.

“Six months in, it’s clear: congestion pricing has been a huge success, making life in New York better,” Governor Hochul said. “In New York, we dare to do big things, and this program represents just that – traffic is down throughout the region, business is booming, transit ridership is up, and we are making historic upgrades to our transit system. We’ve also fended off five months of unlawful attempts from the federal government to unwind this successful program and will keep fighting – and winning – in the courts. The cameras are staying on.”

New York State and the MTA have successfully fought off repeated legal challenges to congestion pricing and have stood up to block the unlawful attempts of the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and the Trump Administration to terminate the program. In May, a preliminary injunction was issued in the case of Metropolitan Transportation Authority v. Duffy, keeping congestion pricing in effect pending further court proceedings and enjoining the federal government from taking retaliatory measures in response.

MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber said, “Congestion relief is a massive success and validation of the initiative keeps pouring in. The program is achieving all of its goals in terms of traffic reduction, increased travel speeds, safety, noise reduction and more. And not only is Congestion Relief delivering all the projected benefits – and more – it’s also proving that New York State government can effectively execute major, ambitious initiatives that improve the quality of life in ways New Yorkers notice and appreciate.”

MTA Construction & Development President Jamie Torres-Springer said, “In addition to all of the benefits New Yorkers are already feeling on our streets, Congestion Relief is delivering accessibility at 25 subway and railroad stations, modern subway signals for AC and BDFM riders, new subway and rail cars, and countless other essential projects for our public transit system. The new MTA is hard at work advancing these projects better, faster, and cheaper.”

Since the congestion pricing program took effect on Jan. 5, it has delivered a wide array of benefits according to data from the MTA and other reports and studies from business groups and other data sources.

Congestion pricing is reducing traffic and improving quality of life

In just six months, congestion pricing has succeeded in reducing traffic, speeding up the flow of traffic, and reducing delays – not just in the Congestion Relief Zone but throughout the region. The number of vehicles entering the zone is down by 11% since congestion pricing started. Every day, 67,000 fewer vehicles enter the zone, and since the program started, more than 10 million fewer vehicles have entered the zone compared to last year.

According to a report from the Regional Plan Association and Waze, traffic delays are down in the Congestion Relief Zone by 25% and across the metropolitan region by 9%. Delays are also down by 10% in the Bronx and 14% in parts of Bergen County, NJ. Time lost to traffic jams is down 12%, giving seven minutes for every hour spent in traffic in 2024 back to commuters’ lives. Travel times on river crossings have decreased by 6% to as much as 42% in 2025 compared to 2024. In the Holland Tunnel, rush hour delays are down by 65% since congestion pricing began. In the Lincoln Tunnel, MTA express buses are traveling almost 24% faster than in 2024. Roads and highways approaching the Congestion Relief Zone, including Flatbush Ave in Brooklyn and the Long Island Expressway, are also moving faster than last year.

Reduced gridlock has improved quality of life in New York City. Crashes in the Congestion Relief Zone are down 14%. Traffic injuries are down by 15% in the zone, and the safety benefits are being felt citywide. Just this week, the New York City Department of Transportation released data showing that pedestrian fatalities on New York City streets are at historic lows, matching levels last seen in 2018.

Additionally, air quality has improved and noise pollution has reduced since the program was launched. Honking and vehicle noise complaints to 311 are down by 45% in 2025. A new report from the City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene released on July 2 showed steady or decreasing levels of fine particle air pollution (or PM2.5) at most sites, both inside and outside the Congestion Relief Zone.

Transit service and ridership are on the rise

Transit ridership across all modes has increased from January-May 2025 when compared to the same period last year. All MTA modes of public transportation have had post-pandemic record high ridership in the first half of 2025.
- Subway: +7%
- Bus: +12%
- LIRR: +8%
- Metro-North: +6%
- Access-A-Ride: +21%
Transit service has steadily improved in 2025 to near record levels. In May, subway On-Time Performance was 85.2%, the best non-pandemic month in recorded history. Long Island Rail Road and Metro-North On-Time Performance have consistently been at or near 97% and 98% respectively in 2025. Buses are moving faster thanks to congestion pricing. Bus speeds have increased by an average of 3.2% within the CRZ, with some routes increasing by as much as 25%.

Governor Hochul and the MTA have also made historic investments to improve bus service. Service was increased on eight key Express Bus routes in March and on 14 high-ridership local bus routes on June 29th. The MTA also launched the first phase of the Queens Bus Network Redesign on June 29th, bringing more frequent and direct service with better connections to 800,000 Queens bus riders. Phase 2 will launch on August 31.

Economic activity in New York City is up

Gridlock is bad for the economy. According to a report from the Partnership for New York City before congestion pricing was launched, businesses and individuals were wasting hundreds of hours sitting in traffic, costing the economy $20 billion per year. Congestion pricing is a locally developed solution to a generational challenge. 

Already, the benefits of congestion pricing are improving New York City’s economy. Commuters are saving as much as 21 minutes each way. Time savings help businesses make deliveries and save costs. The annual value of these time savings could be as high as $1.3 billion. In May, business district pedestrian activity within the Congestion Relief Zone increased by 8.4% compared to May 2024. This growth is much faster than for business districts outside of the zone, which saw an increase of 2.7%.

Business is booming in the Congestion Relief Zone in 2025. Broadway just posted its biggest season ever with $1.9 billion in ticket sales; retail sales are on track to be up $900 million in 2025 compared to 2024; Hotel occupancy was 87% in April 2025 compared to 85% in April 2024; Commercial office leasing in 2025 Q1 is up 11% compared to 2024 Q4 and up 80% since 2024 Q1. At the same time, New York City now has the most jobs in its history – nearing 4.86 million in April 2025. That represents 1.6% growth over April 2024, outpacing the national average of 1.1%.

The MTA is investing in transit improvements funded by congestion pricing

By enabling the MTA to issue $15 billion in bonds to fund projects in its 2020-2024 Capital Plan, congestion pricing is powering improvements across the MTA network. Improvement projects funded by congestion pricing include:
- 435 additional R211 subway cars – including 80 additional open-gangway cars
- 44 new, more reliable dual-mode locomotives for the Long Island Rail Road
- 300 new M9A cars for Metro-North and the Long Island Rail-Road
- Communications Based Train Control (CBTC) signal upgrades on the A and C lines between Downtown Brooklyn and Ozone Park, allowing for more frequent and reliable service
- Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) upgrades at 23 subway stations, including new elevators, reconstructed platforms, and other improvements
Additionally, funding from congestion pricing allows the MTA to move forward with the tunneling contract for Phase 2 of the Second Avenue Subway, which will be awarded in the second half of 2025.

MIL OSI USA News –
July 6, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Congestion Pricing Succeeding in Reducing Traffic
Source: US State of New York

overnor Kathy Hochul and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) today announced that in its first six months, New York City’s congestion pricing program has succeeded in reducing traffic and raising revenues to fund transit improvements across the region, while economic activity in New York City has flourished. Activated at 12:00 am on January 5th, the nation’s first urban congestion pricing program reduces gridlock in Manhattan’s Congestion Relief Zone (CRZ) below 60th Street by charging motorists to enter the zone. Revenue from congestion pricing is on track to reach the forecasted $500 million in 2025, allowing the MTA to advance $15 billion in critical capital improvements to mass transit on its subway, bus, Long Island Rail Road, and Metro-North Railroad systems.

“Six months in, it’s clear: congestion pricing has been a huge success, making life in New York better,” Governor Hochul said. “In New York, we dare to do big things, and this program represents just that – traffic is down throughout the region, business is booming, transit ridership is up, and we are making historic upgrades to our transit system. We’ve also fended off five months of unlawful attempts from the federal government to unwind this successful program and will keep fighting – and winning – in the courts. The cameras are staying on.”

New York State and the MTA have successfully fought off repeated legal challenges to congestion pricing and have stood up to block the unlawful attempts of the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and the Trump Administration to terminate the program. In May, a preliminary injunction was issued in the case of Metropolitan Transportation Authority v. Duffy, keeping congestion pricing in effect pending further court proceedings and enjoining the federal government from taking retaliatory measures in response.

MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber said, “Congestion relief is a massive success and validation of the initiative keeps pouring in. The program is achieving all of its goals in terms of traffic reduction, increased travel speeds, safety, noise reduction and more. And not only is Congestion Relief delivering all the projected benefits – and more – it’s also proving that New York State government can effectively execute major, ambitious initiatives that improve the quality of life in ways New Yorkers notice and appreciate.”

MTA Construction & Development President Jamie Torres-Springer said, “In addition to all of the benefits New Yorkers are already feeling on our streets, Congestion Relief is delivering accessibility at 25 subway and railroad stations, modern subway signals for AC and BDFM riders, new subway and rail cars, and countless other essential projects for our public transit system. The new MTA is hard at work advancing these projects better, faster, and cheaper.”

Since the congestion pricing program took effect on Jan. 5, it has delivered a wide array of benefits according to data from the MTA and other reports and studies from business groups and other data sources.

Congestion pricing is reducing traffic and improving quality of life

In just six months, congestion pricing has succeeded in reducing traffic, speeding up the flow of traffic, and reducing delays – not just in the Congestion Relief Zone but throughout the region. The number of vehicles entering the zone is down by 11% since congestion pricing started. Every day, 67,000 fewer vehicles enter the zone, and since the program started, more than 10 million fewer vehicles have entered the zone compared to last year.

According to a report from the Regional Plan Association and Waze, traffic delays are down in the Congestion Relief Zone by 25% and across the metropolitan region by 9%. Delays are also down by 10% in the Bronx and 14% in parts of Bergen County, NJ. Time lost to traffic jams is down 12%, giving seven minutes for every hour spent in traffic in 2024 back to commuters’ lives. Travel times on river crossings have decreased by 6% to as much as 42% in 2025 compared to 2024. In the Holland Tunnel, rush hour delays are down by 65% since congestion pricing began. In the Lincoln Tunnel, MTA express buses are traveling almost 24% faster than in 2024. Roads and highways approaching the Congestion Relief Zone, including Flatbush Ave in Brooklyn and the Long Island Expressway, are also moving faster than last year.

Reduced gridlock has improved quality of life in New York City. Crashes in the Congestion Relief Zone are down 14%. Traffic injuries are down by 15% in the zone, and the safety benefits are being felt citywide. Just this week, the New York City Department of Transportation released data showing that pedestrian fatalities on New York City streets are at historic lows, matching levels last seen in 2018.

Additionally, air quality has improved and noise pollution has reduced since the program was launched. Honking and vehicle noise complaints to 311 are down by 45% in 2025. A new report from the City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene released on July 2 showed steady or decreasing levels of fine particle air pollution (or PM2.5) at most sites, both inside and outside the Congestion Relief Zone.

Transit service and ridership are on the rise

Transit ridership across all modes has increased from January-May 2025 when compared to the same period last year. All MTA modes of public transportation have had post-pandemic record high ridership in the first half of 2025.
- Subway: +7%
- Bus: +12%
- LIRR: +8%
- Metro-North: +6%
- Access-A-Ride: +21%
Transit service has steadily improved in 2025 to near record levels. In May, subway On-Time Performance was 85.2%, the best non-pandemic month in recorded history. Long Island Rail Road and Metro-North On-Time Performance have consistently been at or near 97% and 98% respectively in 2025. Buses are moving faster thanks to congestion pricing. Bus speeds have increased by an average of 3.2% within the CRZ, with some routes increasing by as much as 25%.

Governor Hochul and the MTA have also made historic investments to improve bus service. Service was increased on eight key Express Bus routes in March and on 14 high-ridership local bus routes on June 29th. The MTA also launched the first phase of the Queens Bus Network Redesign on June 29th, bringing more frequent and direct service with better connections to 800,000 Queens bus riders. Phase 2 will launch on August 31.

Economic activity in New York City is up

Gridlock is bad for the economy. According to a report from the Partnership for New York City before congestion pricing was launched, businesses and individuals were wasting hundreds of hours sitting in traffic, costing the economy $20 billion per year. Congestion pricing is a locally developed solution to a generational challenge. 

Already, the benefits of congestion pricing are improving New York City’s economy. Commuters are saving as much as 21 minutes each way. Time savings help businesses make deliveries and save costs. The annual value of these time savings could be as high as $1.3 billion. In May, business district pedestrian activity within the Congestion Relief Zone increased by 8.4% compared to May 2024. This growth is much faster than for business districts outside of the zone, which saw an increase of 2.7%.

Business is booming in the Congestion Relief Zone in 2025. Broadway just posted its biggest season ever with $1.9 billion in ticket sales; retail sales are on track to be up $900 million in 2025 compared to 2024; Hotel occupancy was 87% in April 2025 compared to 85% in April 2024; Commercial office leasing in 2025 Q1 is up 11% compared to 2024 Q4 and up 80% since 2024 Q1. At the same time, New York City now has the most jobs in its history – nearing 4.86 million in April 2025. That represents 1.6% growth over April 2024, outpacing the national average of 1.1%.

The MTA is investing in transit improvements funded by congestion pricing

By enabling the MTA to issue $15 billion in bonds to fund projects in its 2020-2024 Capital Plan, congestion pricing is powering improvements across the MTA network. Improvement projects funded by congestion pricing include:
- 435 additional R211 subway cars – including 80 additional open-gangway cars
- 44 new, more reliable dual-mode locomotives for the Long Island Rail Road
- 300 new M9A cars for Metro-North and the Long Island Rail-Road
- Communications Based Train Control (CBTC) signal upgrades on the A and C lines between Downtown Brooklyn and Ozone Park, allowing for more frequent and reliable service
- Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) upgrades at 23 subway stations, including new elevators, reconstructed platforms, and other improvements
Additionally, funding from congestion pricing allows the MTA to move forward with the tunneling contract for Phase 2 of the Second Avenue Subway, which will be awarded in the second half of 2025.

MIL OSI USA News –
July 6, 2025
MIL-OSI Analysis: Why Texas Hill Country, where a devastating flood killed dozens, is one of the deadliest places in the US for flash flooding

Source: The Conversation – USA (2) – By Hatim Sharif, Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The University of Texas at San Antonio

A Kerrville, Texas, resident watches the flooded Guadalupe River on July 4, 2025. Eric Vryn/Getty Images

Texas Hill Country is known for its landscapes, with shallow rivers winding among hills and through rugged valleys. But that geography also makes it one of the deadliest places in the U.S. for flash flooding.

In the early hours of July 4, 2025, a rush of flood water swept through an area dotted with summer camps and small towns about 70 miles west of San Antonio. At least 27 people died, and about two dozen girls from one camp and other people in the area were still unaccounted for the following morning, officials said. More than 200 people had to be rescued.

The flooding began as many flash floods in this region do, with a heavy downpour that sent water sheeting off the hillsides into creeks. The creeks poured into the Guadalupe River. Around 3 a.m. on July 4, National Weather Service data shows the river was rising about 1 foot every 5 minutes near the camp. By 4:30 a.m., the water had risen more than 20 feet.

Flood expert Hatim Sharif, a hydrologist and civil engineer at the University of Texas at San Antonio, explains what makes this part of the country, known as Flash Flood Alley, so dangerous.

What makes Hill Country so prone to flooding?

Texas as a whole leads the nation in flood deaths, and by a wide margin. A colleague and I analyzed data from 1959 to 2019 and found 1,069 people had died in flooding in Texas over those six decades. The next highest total was in Louisiana, with 693.

Many of those flood deaths have been in Hill County, an area known as Flash Flood Alley. It’s a crescent of land that curves from near Dallas down to San Antonio and then westward.

The hills are steep, and the water moves quickly when it floods. This is a semi-arid area with soils that don’t soak up much water, so the water sheets off quickly and the shallow creeks can rise fast.

When those creeks converge on a river, they can create a wall of water that wipes out homes and washes away cars and, unfortunately, anyone in its path.

Hill Country has seen some devastating flash floods. In 1987, heavy rain in western Kerr County quickly flooded the Guadalupe River, triggering a flash flood similar to the one in 2025. Ten teenagers being evacuated from a camp died in the rushing water.

San Antonio, considered the gateway to Hill Country, was hit with another flash flood on June 12, 2025, that killed 13 people whose cars were swept away when they drove into high water from a flooding creek near an interstate ramp in the early morning.

Why does the region get such strong downpours?

One reason Hill Country gets powerful downpours is the Balcones Escarpment.

The escarpment is a line of cliffs and steep hills created by a geologic fault. When warm air from the Gulf rushes up the escarpment, it condenses and can dump a lot of moisture. That water flows down the hills quickly, from many different directions, filling streams and rivers below.

As temperature rise, the warmer atmosphere can hold more moisture, increasing the downpour and flood risk.

A tour of the Guadalupe River and its flood risk.

The same effect can contribute to flash flooding in San Antonio, where the large amount of paved land and lack of updated drainage to control runoff adds to the risk.

What can be done to improve flash flood safety?

First, it’s important for people to understand why flash flooding happens and just how fast the water can rise and flow. In many arid areas, dry or shallow creeks can quickly fill up with fast-moving water and become deadly. So people should be aware of the risks and pay attention to the weather.

Improving flood forecasting, with more detailed models of the physics and water velocity at different locations, can also help.

Probabilistic forecasting, for example, can provide a range of rainfall scenarios, enabling authorities to prepare for worst-case scenarios. A scientific framework linking rainfall forecasts to the local impacts, such as streamflow, flood depth and water velocity, could also help decision-makers implement timely evacuations or road closures.

Education is particularly essential for drivers. One to two feet of moving water can wash away a car. People may think their trucks and SUVs can go through anything, but fast-moving water can flip a truck and carry it away.

Officials can also do more to barricade roads when the flood risk is high to prevent people from driving into harm’s way. We found that 58% of the flood deaths in Texas over the past six decades involved vehicles.

The storm on June 12 in San Antonio was an example. It was early morning, and drivers has poor visibility. Cars drove into floodwater without seeing the risk until it was too late.

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

– ref. Why Texas Hill Country, where a devastating flood killed dozens, is one of the deadliest places in the US for flash flooding – https://theconversation.com/why-texas-hill-country-where-a-devastating-flood-killed-dozens-is-one-of-the-deadliest-places-in-the-us-for-flash-flooding-260555

MIL OSI Analysis –

July 6, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK re-establishes diplomatic relations with Syria in first Ministerial visit for 14 years
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Press release

UK re-establishes diplomatic relations with Syria in first Ministerial visit for 14 years

The Foreign Secretary has visited Syria to renew our diplomatic relationship, eight months on from the collapse of Assad’s regime.
Foreign Secretary’s visit to Syria marks first by a UK Minister in 14 years and renews the UK and Syria’s diplomatic relationship.

Commitment to support Syria as the new Government seeks to rebuild Syria’s economy, deliver an inclusive political transition and forge a path to justice for the victims of the Assad regime.

New UK funding to assist with removal of Assad era chemical weapons and provide urgent humanitarian assistance in Syria, to bolster UK and Middle East security, tackle irregular migration, and deliver on the Government’s Plan for Change.

Eight months on from the collapse of the Assad regime, the UK has officially re-established diplomatic relations with the Syrian Government following the Foreign Secretary’s visit to Damascus today.

As the first UK Minister to visit in 14 years, the Foreign Secretary emphasised that the UK will support the Syrian Government to deliver its commitments to build a more secure and prosperous future for Syrians, increasing security in the wider region and the UK.

The Foreign Secretary met President Al-Sharaa and Foreign Minister al-Shaibani to reiterate the importance of an inclusive and representative political transition in Syria and offer continued UK support to the Syrian people.

A stable Syria is in the UK’s interests. We want to ensure that Daesh’s territorial defeat endures, and they can never resurge, and we want to prevent vulnerable Syrians from being exploited by people smuggling gangs across Europe. Building closer diplomatic partnerships with Syria is critical to safeguard UK security, in line with the Government’s Plan for Change.

Foreign Secretary, David Lammy said:

As the first UK Minister to visit Syria since the fall of Assad’s brutal regime, I’ve seen first-hand the remarkable progress Syrians have made in rebuilding their lives and their country.

After over a decade of conflict, there is renewed hope for the Syrian people. The UK is re-establishing diplomatic relations because it is in our interests to support the new government to deliver their commitment to build a stable, more secure and prosperous future for all Syrians.

A stable Syria is in the UK’s interests, reducing the risk of irregular migration, ensuring the destruction of chemical weapons, tackling the threat of terrorism and delivering the Government’s Plan for Change.

During his visit to Syria, the Foreign Secretary met Syrian Civil Defence volunteers (White Helmets) to learn more about the vital work they carry out across the country, including with the safe removal of unexploded ordnance and emergency lifesaving medical work.

The fall of Assad presents an opportunity for the new Syrian government to fully declare and destroy Assad’s evil chemical weapons programme. As part of the visit, the UK has committed an additional £2 million this financial year to the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) to support their vital work addressing the horrific legacy of Assad’s chemical weapons in Syria. The UK contribution will support the OPCW’s operational requirements in Syria as they help the Syrian Government fulfil their commitments to eliminate Assad’s chemical weapons once and for all.

Demonstrating the UK’s continued commitment to sustainable development and Syria’s recovery from conflict, the Foreign Secretary met women-led businesses in Syria, which have been supported by the UK’s livelihoods and economic recovery programme.

UK support is set to continue, with the additional £94.5 million package announced today, which will provide urgent humanitarian aid to Syrians, support Syria’s longer-term recovery through education and livelihoods, and support countries hosting Syrian refugees in the region.

The Foreign Secretary will travel on to Kuwait where strengthening regional security and boosting bilateral relations will be top of the agenda in meetings with His Highness the Crown Prince, His Highness the Prime Minister and His Excellency the Foreign Minister. The Foreign Secretary will advocate for UK businesses to have access to new opportunities to support Kuwaiti growing markets– further advancing business engagement between UK and Kuwait and the wider region.

The Foreign Secretary will also announce a new partnership with Kuwait to tackle the humanitarian crisis in Sudan. New funding will help provide nutrition support and restore clean drinking water supplies, as Sudan faces both famine and a devastating cholera outbreak. Support will also be made available to fund lifesaving work in Somalia where conflict and the climate crisis are driving pressing humanitarian needs.

ENDS

Notes to Editors:

The UK has provided £4.5bn of assistance to Syria and countries in the region since 2011.

Over the past two years the UK has provided more than £5m to the White Helmets in support of their lifesaving emergency medical, firefighting and search rescue services. This includes £2.25m this financial year to continue this work and ensure a smooth transition of their activities to the Government.

The UK has already provided £837,300 to the OPCW Syria Missions since the fall of Assad to support their immediate work in ensuring the safe and rapid destruction of Syria’s chemical weapons.

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Published 5 July 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
July 6, 2025
MIL-OSI China: New generating unit at SW China hydropower station starts operation

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

BEIJING, July 5 — The second generating unit at a hydropower station located at the main stream of the Jinsha River in southwest China, has been put into operation after a successful 72-hour trial, according to a report in the Science and Technology Daily on Saturday.

The Batang hydropower station is equipped with three 250,000-kilowatt power generation units, capable of a total installed capacity of 750,000 kilowatts.

Its first power generation unit was put into operation on May 15, while the third unit is expected to start running in mid-July.

Once this power station is fully commissioned, it will be capable of providing more than 3 billion kilowatt-hours of clean energy annually, sufficient to meet the annual electricity consumption of 1.75 million households.

This, notably, is equivalent to saving 1.05 million tonnes of standard coal and reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 3.15 million tonnes per year.

MIL OSI China News –

July 6, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Khorgos Automobile Checkpoint Recognized as International Sanitary Land Port

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

BEIJING, July 5 (Xinhua) — The Horgos Port of Entry in northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region on Friday was officially awarded the title of “international sanitary land port” after passing the assessment and acceptance by an expert team of the World Health Organization (WHO) on the spot, the press service of the Horgos city administration said.

The assessment of an international sanitary port is carried out by WHO according to several criteria: the sanitary and hygienic infrastructure of the checkpoint, the hygiene management system and the capacity to respond to public health emergencies.

The transformation of Horgos Port into an international sanitary land port greatly enhances its ability to respond to international public health emergencies and creates a safer environment for customs clearance, and is of great significance to serving the high-quality construction of the Belt and Road and ensuring global public health security.

Situated on China’s border with Kazakhstan, the Khorgos checkpoint is the largest integrated border crossing in Xinjiang, handling both road and rail freight. It serves as a key hub in the key area of the Silk Road Economic Belt under construction. -0-

MIL OSI Russia News –

July 6, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: International health tourism booming on China’s Hainan Island

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

HAIKOU, July 5 (Xinhua) — Located in the coastal town of Boao in south China’s Hainan Province, the Boao Lecheng International Health Tourism Pilot Zone is fast becoming a leading healthcare and innovation hub in China, attracting increasing attention from around the world.

The pilot zone, which is considered the only special medical service zone in China, hosts more than 30 leading domestic and foreign medical institutions. With special policy support, the pilot zone has introduced 485 advanced drugs and medical devices that have been approved abroad but have not yet entered the domestic market, benefiting more than 130,000 patients.

Canadian figure skating coach Mark Batka, suffering from growing tumors on his chest and back that were hampering his ability to work, decided to have surgery during a four-day recuperation trip to the pilot zone.

“In Canada it’s more expensive and it takes time to get an appointment for the surgery. And since I was here, I decided to give it a try and I was very happy, I think it went very well,” he said.

Mark Batka is just one of many foreign visitors who have taken advantage of the medical services at the pilot zone, which offers a world-class package of services, from premium medical check-ups and a combination of traditional Chinese and Western treatments to cultural experiences such as incense tasting, tea ceremonies and calligraphy.

Boao Yiling Life Support Center, a leading provider of comprehensive medical services in the pilot zone, provides a wide range of services such as health care, disease prevention, specific therapies, rehabilitation and mental health.

Janet Wong, who went on a Canadian wellness tour with Mark Batka, said she was impressed by the high-quality medical check-up she received at the centre.

“We were so surprised from the very beginning when we arrived,” she said, adding that the treatment was excellent and the medical examination incredibly thorough.

“In a way, it really does feel like a vacation,” said Stephanie Wing See Yau, another member of the Canadian group, calling the centre a truly world-class facility.

“It’s really impressive how they’ve put all these treatments together in one place,” she said, noting that she was glad to see that there was a focus on overall wellness, not just physical wellness but mental wellness as well. She described her trip as a great experience and said she would definitely recommend it to friends.

As part of the pilot zone’s efforts to develop health tourism, 25 specialized routes have been launched, tailored to different needs, from traditional Chinese medicine and chronic disease treatment to high-end medical check-ups and medical cosmetology. These routes are increasingly popular around the world. The pilot zone has also become a key platform supporting Hainan’s efforts to become a hub for international tourism and consumption.

By the end of 2024, more than 410,000 people had taken medical tours in the pilot zone, which is 36.76 percent more than in the previous year. Since the beginning of this year, 188,300 tourists from countries such as Canada, Spain, Russia, Uzbekistan and Cuba have already visited the zone to use medical services.

Kareldus Agas, an official with the International Tourism Promotion Department of Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy, was deeply impressed by the comprehensive services at the pilot zone after visiting some wellness projects and traditional cultural activities, including calligraphy and cupping.

He said that Boao Lecheng not only offers advanced medical services, but also a harmonious combination of relaxation, wellness and spiritual healing, creating a truly unforgettable experience. He expressed a strong desire to visit the area again, even without a medical request, just to enjoy the unique feeling of relaxation he felt there.

The pilot zone has established partnerships with more than 180 pharmaceutical companies and medical equipment manufacturers from 20 countries, providing access to advanced international medical services for both domestic and foreign visitors, said He Ying, an official with the Boao Lecheng International Health Tourism Pilot Zone.

He added that the zone will continue to strengthen its service platforms and capacity to receive foreign tourists with the aim of becoming a world-class health tourism destination.

As part of its broader economic strategy, China is turning Hainan into a free trade port and aims to turn the province into a global tourist and consumer destination by 2035. -0-

MIL OSI Russia News –

July 6, 2025
India’s healthcare system accessible, affordable and innovative: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Saturday underlined India’s growing stature as a global hub for pharmaceuticals and medical research, while reaffirming that the country’s healthcare system remains qualitative, accessible and affordable.

Speaking at the inauguration of the 7th Annual International Conference of the Innovative Physicians Forum — IPF MEDICON 2025 — in New Delhi, Birla said India’s medical infrastructure and service delivery have significantly improved, making healthcare more inclusive and patient-centric.

“India has enhanced the quality of healthcare while ensuring it remains within the reach of every citizen,” Birla said, highlighting the role of digital health technologies, expanded outreach, and affordable treatment options in building a robust and equitable healthcare ecosystem.

Addressing medical professionals and delegates from Nepal, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, and the UK, the Speaker praised Indian doctors for embracing innovation and advanced technologies, even as developed countries face growing health challenges. “The reputation and quality of Indian doctors have earned recognition worldwide,” he said.

Birla noted that despite limited resources, the dedication and sacrifice of doctors, paramedical staff and healthcare workers enabled India to effectively manage the COVID-19 pandemic — a testament, he said, to the credibility of India’s healthcare system.

Emphasising India’s emergence as a centre for drug manufacturing, vaccine production and biomedical research, the Lok Sabha Speaker said the country’s skilled scientists, strong research infrastructure, and commitment to innovation are driving advancements that serve both domestic and global health needs.

He added that the government is prioritising research, innovation and free medical treatment for the underprivileged through initiatives such as Ayushman Bharat, further strengthening India’s role in shaping the future of global health.

Calling innovation and research the “need of the hour”, Birla urged institutions, scientists, and policymakers to collaborate and harness rapid scientific and technological advancements to tackle emerging health challenges and improve patient care. “Fostering a culture of innovation and investing in medical research are essential for developing new treatments, enhancing disease prevention, and strengthening the healthcare ecosystem,” he said.

Speaking about the conference, Birla said it is more than an event — “it is a global platform for human service.” He expressed hope that discussions would address artificial intelligence, digital tools, robotics, and other modern medical technologies to help create a more efficient and human-centred healthcare system.

Kamaljeet Sehrawat, MP, was also present at the conference alongside international medical representatives.

July 6, 2025
India’s healthcare system accessible, affordable and innovative: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Saturday underlined India’s growing stature as a global hub for pharmaceuticals and medical research, while reaffirming that the country’s healthcare system remains qualitative, accessible and affordable.

Speaking at the inauguration of the 7th Annual International Conference of the Innovative Physicians Forum — IPF MEDICON 2025 — in New Delhi, Birla said India’s medical infrastructure and service delivery have significantly improved, making healthcare more inclusive and patient-centric.

“India has enhanced the quality of healthcare while ensuring it remains within the reach of every citizen,” Birla said, highlighting the role of digital health technologies, expanded outreach, and affordable treatment options in building a robust and equitable healthcare ecosystem.

Addressing medical professionals and delegates from Nepal, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, and the UK, the Speaker praised Indian doctors for embracing innovation and advanced technologies, even as developed countries face growing health challenges. “The reputation and quality of Indian doctors have earned recognition worldwide,” he said.

Birla noted that despite limited resources, the dedication and sacrifice of doctors, paramedical staff and healthcare workers enabled India to effectively manage the COVID-19 pandemic — a testament, he said, to the credibility of India’s healthcare system.

Emphasising India’s emergence as a centre for drug manufacturing, vaccine production and biomedical research, the Lok Sabha Speaker said the country’s skilled scientists, strong research infrastructure, and commitment to innovation are driving advancements that serve both domestic and global health needs.

He added that the government is prioritising research, innovation and free medical treatment for the underprivileged through initiatives such as Ayushman Bharat, further strengthening India’s role in shaping the future of global health.

Calling innovation and research the “need of the hour”, Birla urged institutions, scientists, and policymakers to collaborate and harness rapid scientific and technological advancements to tackle emerging health challenges and improve patient care. “Fostering a culture of innovation and investing in medical research are essential for developing new treatments, enhancing disease prevention, and strengthening the healthcare ecosystem,” he said.

Speaking about the conference, Birla said it is more than an event — “it is a global platform for human service.” He expressed hope that discussions would address artificial intelligence, digital tools, robotics, and other modern medical technologies to help create a more efficient and human-centred healthcare system.

Kamaljeet Sehrawat, MP, was also present at the conference alongside international medical representatives.

July 6, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to Texas floods

Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

July 5, 2025

Scientists comment on the flooding in Texas.

Dr Martina Egedusevic, Impact Fellow in Green Futures, University of Exeter, said:

“The devastating floods in Texas are a stark reminder of how intensifying extreme weather events driven by climate change are interacting with land-use change, urbanisation, and aging infrastructure to produce severe impacts. While individual flood events are influenced by multiple factors, we know that warmer air holds more moisture, increasing the likelihood of intense rainfall. In many urban areas like those affected in Texas, impervious surfaces prevent water absorption, overwhelming drainage systems and exacerbating flash flooding.

“This underlines the importance of not only improving forecasting and emergency response but also investing in long-term, systemic approaches to flood resilience. Nature-based solutions such as wetland restoration, reforestation, and sustainable urban drainage systems can complement engineering infrastructure by slowing runoff and increasing infiltration. As our research in the UK and internationally shows, working with nature can help mitigate the worst effects of flooding while delivering co-benefits for biodiversity, air quality, and climate adaptation.

“However, each region has its own hydrological and social context, so local knowledge and inclusive planning are essential. Understanding where and why such flood events happen also means tackling the underlying vulnerabilities like poorly planned development, socio-economic inequalities, and environmental degradation.”

Prof Bill McGuire, Professor Emeritus of Geophysical & Climate Hazards, UCL, said:

“The tragic events in Texas are exactly what we would expect in our hotter, climate-changed, world. There has been an explosion in extreme weather in recent years, including more devastating flash floods caused by slow-moving, wetter, storms, that dump exceptional amounts of rain over small areas across a short time. This frequently overwhelms river catchments leading to severe damage to adjacent infrastructure and loss of life. Such events will only become more commonplace as the global temperature continues to climb, driven by carbon dioxide emissions that still top 40 billion tonnes every year.”

Dr Jess Neumann, University of Reading, said:

“The devastating floods of Kerr County in Texas is a tragic reminder of the dangers of sudden extreme rainfall and flash flooding.

“Flash floods are not uncommon in the Hill Country area of Texas, where the weather is easily influenced by a ready supply of moist air from the Gulf of Mexico. When very heavy rain falls on steep hillsides, this can create the conditions for raging torrents to be created in previously dry river beds, in just a matter of hours.

“Totals of 200mm (around 8 inches) of rainfall were originally forecast, which is a significant amount in any location. In places, this is expected to have reached more than 12 inches of rain. For context, in the UK, 50mm of rain a day is considered heavy rainfall with serious potential for flooding.

“This terrible event, in which children are missing and many have died, raises critical questions about effective early warning systems, flood planning and preparedness in the region.

“It cannot be right that a flood of this magnitude, in an area known to be at high risk of flash floods, caused such devastation and has taken so many people by surprise.”

Prof Hannah Cloke, professor of hydrology at the University of Reading, said:

“For so many children to be swept away in a flood is an almost unimaginable horror. Sadly, it can be the inability to see such a tragedy emerging that can be part of the failure of an early warning system for floods. An alert system is a chain of human communication, and if one person in any part of the chain doesn’t respond as they should to take action, the system runs the risk of failure. Human communication about events that have not yet occurred requires the use of imagination, and a lack of imagination can be lethal.

“This downpour seems to have been well forecasted by multiple forecasters around the world, several hours in advance. Warnings were issued, but the systems do not seem to have been in place to get information to those in harm’s way fast enough. The timing of the flood, which happened in the middle of the night, would have meant that any last-minute actions to get out of the way of the water would have been hampered by darkness.

“It is not good enough for authorities to say they were not aware that floods were coming. Warnings were available but the message just didn’t get through. This must be a reminder of the need to invest more effort in checking every aspect of early warning systems, from the science, to the communications, to the education required to spread more understanding of the risks and how to respond to them.”

“Once again, we are left horrified and humbled by the dreadful power of the weather and the ability of our rivers to take lives.”

Declared interests

Prof Bill McGuire: “No conflicts of interest.”

Dr Jess Neumann: “I am a trustee of the Charity River Mole River Watch. We work with water companies including SES Water and the Environment Agency. We receive funding for research from local Government, NGO’s and private business / industry. No other conflicts of interest to declare.”

Prof Hannah Cloke: “Works with and advises the Met Office, ECMWF and Environment Agency.”

For all other experts, no reply to our request for DOIs was received.

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

July 6, 2025
MIL-OSI: RIPPLECOIN Mining Cloud Mining Opens a New Channel for Steady Profits in the Crypto Market
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

London, UK, July 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As Bitcoin (BTC) approaches its all-time high of $112,000, Ethereum (ETH) and Dogecoin (DOGE) prices fluctuate frequently, and the sharp fluctuations in the crypto market have increased the anxiety of investors holding coins. Data shows that in the past three days alone, BTC has fluctuated violently between $105,000 and $109,400, while ETH has been hovering between breakthroughs and declines, and DOGE has repeatedly adjusted due to the lack of mainstream momentum.

With ETF funds pouring in, geopolitics temporarily easing, and the Federal Reserve sending signals of potential rate cuts, investors are bullish on the long-term trend, but are unable to withstand the psychological and financial pressure brought by short-term fluctuations.

“Waking up every day to see if BTC has fallen is too much like gambling.” – A Reddit user commented.
“I’m fed up with the dual fluctuations of ETH gas fees and coin prices.” — Feedback from X (former Twitter user).

Experts suggest: Safe-haven funds are flocking to cloud mining

Alex G., chief strategist at crypto asset research firm Cryptometrics, pointed out: “When the market direction is not clear, ordinary investors should not bet on short-term price fluctuations. At this stage, cloud mining provides users with a passive income model based on computing power contracts, which is a core tool for stable cash flow strategies.”

Chainpulse’s latest monthly report also shows: “Before ETF sentiment and policy cycles are fully clear, regular cloud mining platforms such as Ripplecoin Mining have become the first choice for more and more crypto asset holders to allocate assets.”

Ripplecoin Mining: Turning Volatility into Income

Ripplecoin Mining is a global legally registered cloud mining platform established in 2017, which supports users to access the global computing power network driven by green energy with one click through encrypted assets such as XRP, USDT, BTC, etc. The platform integrates AI computing power scheduling system to realize remote equipment-free mining, reducing technical barriers and investment risks.
New users can get a free computing power trial worth $15 when they register, which is applicable to cloud mining experience of mainstream currencies such as BTC, ETH, DOGE, etc., without paying any upfront fees.

Profit mechanism and risk balance: flexible contracts, daily settlement

Ripplecoin Mining provides flexible contract options such as 7 days, 15 days, and 30 days, with a minimum investment threshold of $100. The platform automatically settles daily income to the account and supports free withdrawal of currencies such as XRP, BTC, and USDT. Platform data shows that the current average daily income of users ranges from $5 to $88,000, and the specific income is dynamically related to the selected contract size, currency, and difficulty of the entire network.

Get started quickly in just three steps:

Register an account: Visit the official website, fill in your email address and password, and you can get a free computing power trial;

Choose a contract: Choose a flexible package based on your budget and goals

Start mining: The AI-driven computing power scheduling system runs automatically, daily income is credited to your account, and you can withdraw cash at any time.

Positive feedback from the user community: From “waiting for the currency to rise” to “daily income”

According to analysis of Reddit and X social platforms, in the past 30 days, the number of Ripplecoin Mining mentions in discussions about keywords such as “cloud mining”, “passive income” and “crypto daily yield” has increased by more than 243%. Many users reported that:

“Ripplecoin Mining helps me get rid of market anxiety and allows my assets to generate cash returns every day.”
“I’m not worried about the price of the currency at all. What I care about is how much money will arrive in my account tomorrow.”

Conclusion: Turning to stability is the real strategy

Before the ETF craze and macro policy changes are finalized, cloud mining, as a “digital cash flow” solution that does not rely on exchanges and is not affected by drastic price fluctuations, is gradually becoming a realistic option for mainstream investors.
Whether you hold BTC, XRP, or DOGE, it’s time to consider how to make these assets continue to create value for you.
If you are looking for a crypto mining platform that requires no equipment, is sustainable, and suitable for long-term participation, Ripplecoin Mining is a trustworthy choice.

Media Contact Information

Official Website: https://ripplecoinmining.com
App Download: https://ripplecoinmining.com/xml/index.html#/app
Contact: Anne Watson Media Director
Position: Media Director
Mail: info@ripplecoinmining.com

Disclaimer:
The content of this press release does not constitute any form of investment advice, trading advice or financial commitment. The cryptocurrency market is risky, and cloud mining participants need to carefully assess potential risks based on their own circumstances. It is recommended to consult a professional financial advisor in advance.

Attachment
- Ripplecoin Mining
The MIL Network –
July 6, 2025
Carrying red wreath, Liverpool players join family for Diego Jota’s funeral

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

Carrying a red floral wreath bearing his shirt number, Diogo Jota’s Liverpool teammates joined relatives and residents in a small Portuguese town on Saturday for the funeral of the soccer star, who died with his brother in a car crash on Thursday.

Club captain Virgil Van Dijk, goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher and manager Arne Slot were among Liverpool teammates past and present who attended the service in Gondomar for the striker and his brother, Andre Silva.

The English Premier League stars carried two floral tributes in the club’s red colour into the chapel, each in the shape of a shirt.

The one carried by Van Dijk had the number 20 written in white flowers, which Jota wore on his Liverpool shirt.

The other bore the number 30, which was worn by Jota’s brother, who played for FC Peñafiel in Portugal’s second division.

Dressed in black and with their heads bowed, the teammates entered the church in silence. The only sound was the applause from the crowd outside.

Rute Cardoso, who married her childhood sweetheart Jota only weeks before the fatal crash, arrived with relatives.

Hundreds of residents of Gondomar, a small town in northern Portugal where Jota grew up, gathered outside.

The private service was presided over by the Bishop of Porto, Manuel Linda.

In an emotional homily addressed to Jota’s parents, his wife and their three young children, Linda said “solidarity in love is always stronger than death”.

Teammates from the Portugal national squad including Bernardo Silva and Bruno Fernandes, who both play in the English Premier League, also attended the service.

“Jota will always be in our hearts. He will always be present at every breakfast, lunch, dinner, at all our national team get-togethers, at our PlayStation games, at our card games,” Silva told Portuguese broadcaster TVI.

Jota’s death at the age of 28 sent shock waves through the world of soccer and beyond, with messages of condolences pouring in from national leaders as well as across the sport.

Fans continued to lay flowers and other tributes to the striker on Saturday outside Liverpool’s Anfield stadium.

The brothers were believed to have been driving to a ferry in Spain to travel to Britain when their Lamborghini veered off the road and burst into flames after midnight on Thursday. Police said they suspected a tyre had burst.

-Reuters

July 6, 2025
Carrying red wreath, Liverpool players join family for Diego Jota’s funeral

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

Carrying a red floral wreath bearing his shirt number, Diogo Jota’s Liverpool teammates joined relatives and residents in a small Portuguese town on Saturday for the funeral of the soccer star, who died with his brother in a car crash on Thursday.

Club captain Virgil Van Dijk, goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher and manager Arne Slot were among Liverpool teammates past and present who attended the service in Gondomar for the striker and his brother, Andre Silva.

The English Premier League stars carried two floral tributes in the club’s red colour into the chapel, each in the shape of a shirt.

The one carried by Van Dijk had the number 20 written in white flowers, which Jota wore on his Liverpool shirt.

The other bore the number 30, which was worn by Jota’s brother, who played for FC Peñafiel in Portugal’s second division.

Dressed in black and with their heads bowed, the teammates entered the church in silence. The only sound was the applause from the crowd outside.

Rute Cardoso, who married her childhood sweetheart Jota only weeks before the fatal crash, arrived with relatives.

Hundreds of residents of Gondomar, a small town in northern Portugal where Jota grew up, gathered outside.

The private service was presided over by the Bishop of Porto, Manuel Linda.

In an emotional homily addressed to Jota’s parents, his wife and their three young children, Linda said “solidarity in love is always stronger than death”.

Teammates from the Portugal national squad including Bernardo Silva and Bruno Fernandes, who both play in the English Premier League, also attended the service.

“Jota will always be in our hearts. He will always be present at every breakfast, lunch, dinner, at all our national team get-togethers, at our PlayStation games, at our card games,” Silva told Portuguese broadcaster TVI.

Jota’s death at the age of 28 sent shock waves through the world of soccer and beyond, with messages of condolences pouring in from national leaders as well as across the sport.

Fans continued to lay flowers and other tributes to the striker on Saturday outside Liverpool’s Anfield stadium.

The brothers were believed to have been driving to a ferry in Spain to travel to Britain when their Lamborghini veered off the road and burst into flames after midnight on Thursday. Police said they suspected a tyre had burst.

-Reuters

July 6, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Ukraine Attacks Russian Military Airfield Borisoglebsk

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

Kyiv/Moscow, July 5 /Xinhua/ — Ukraine attacked the Borisoglebsk military airfield in the Voronezh region in western Russia on Saturday, the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) reported on Telegram.

The General Staff noted that the special operation was carried out to reduce the Russian Federation’s ability to carry out air strikes on Ukrainian territory, since Borisoglebsk is the base for Su-34, Su-35S and Su-30SM fighters.

The attack hit a warehouse containing guided bombs, a training aircraft and probably other aircraft, the report said.

The Russian Telegram channel Shot reports that the city of Borisoglebsk in the Voronezh region was subjected to an attempted attack by the Ukrainian Armed Forces. According to local residents, eight to ten powerful explosions thundered around two o’clock in the morning. According to preliminary data, air defense forces shot down several air targets over the city.

There is no information about the consequences on the ground or about victims, Shot reports. –0–

MIL OSI Russia News –

July 6, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio Commissions the Mattru-Senehun Bridge, Praises World Bank for Continued Support to National Development

Source: APO – Report:

.

His Excellency President Dr Julius Maada Bio has officially commissioned the newly constructed Mattru Jong–Senehun Bridge in Jong Chiefdom, Bonthe District, a transformative infrastructure project designed to benefit over 20,000 residents. The bridge is expected to significantly reduce travel time and costs, eliminate the risks associated with manual ferry transport, and improve the movement of goods, especially farm produce, to markets across the region.

Located along the Jong River, Mattru Jong serves as the mainland of Bonthe District, approximately 52 miles southwest of Bo. It was previously one of the country’s 13 colonial-era manual ferry points identified by President Bio for replacement with modern bridges as part of his broader infrastructure and rural development strategy.

In his keynote address, President Bio described the commissioning as a deeply personal and national milestone. “This is a promise fulfilled to my people, to our district, and to our future,” he declared. Recalling his Big Five Game Changer agenda, the President emphasized that his government is committed to delivering tangible development to every part of Sierra Leone “from the hills of Koinadugu to the riverbanks of Bonthe.”

He recounted the challenges of the past: “Our communities relied on manual ferries that were limited to daytime use, became unusable during the rainy season, and often posed serious risks. These were not just inconveniences, they were barriers to progress,” he said. “While previous governments spoke of development, our government is delivering it. We are the ‘Tok N Do’ government.”

President Bio explained that the bridge was made possible through a US$30 million grant from the World Bank under the Smallholder Commercialisation and Agribusiness Development Project (SCADeP), overseen by the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security. The Mattru Bridge is one of four constructed under the initiative, alongside Gendema in Kenema District, Manowa in Kailahun District, and Tomparie in Karene District.

He described the new 160-metre structure as a vital connection point linking Mattru Jong to Bo, Moyamba, and Pujehun Districts, enabling faster access to healthcare, education, and markets. “Now, mothers can reach clinics faster, students will arrive at school safely, and traders and farmers can move goods with ease,” the President said.

President Bio emphasized that beyond reducing travel time, the bridge restores dignity and brings hope to local communities. He expressed profound gratitude to the Ministry of Agriculture, the SCADeP team, the Sierra Leone Roads Authority, Paramount Chiefs, local councils, and Members of Parliament for their roles in making the project a success.

He also thanked the World Bank for its unwavering partnership. “You have walked this journey with us. Your support is yielding real results for our people. But we are not done. There are more bridges to build, more roads to open, and more communities to transform,” he assured.

Speaking on behalf of the World Bank, Dr Abdul Muwonge, Country Manager for Sierra Leone, commended the government and local stakeholders for their cooperation. He noted that farmers, women, schoolchildren, and the elderly had long struggled with access and connectivity in the region. “This bridge is more than concrete and steel, it is a legacy that will serve generations,” he said.

Dr Muwonge applauded President Bio for making a compelling case at the World Bank headquarters, which has led to additional funding for future bridge projects. He reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment to supporting Sierra Leone’s infrastructure and rural development ambitions.

Also speaking at the ceremony, Minister of Agriculture Dr Henry Musa Kpaka described the bridge as a flagship achievement under President Bio’s Big Five Game Changers. He stated that the improved infrastructure would encourage farmers to increase production, knowing that their goods can reach markets efficiently and safely, with improved storage and profitability.

The commissioning of the Mattru-Senehun Bridge stands as a powerful symbol of President Bio’s commitment to inclusive development, rural connectivity, and agricultural transformation. With strong partnerships, bold leadership, and sustained investment, Sierra Leone is steadily moving forward, one bridge, one road, and one empowered community at a time.

– on behalf of State House Sierra Leone.

MIL OSI Africa –

July 6, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Wang Yi calls on China, France to step up humanitarian exchanges

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

PARIS, July 5 (Xinhua) — China and France should continuously deepen people-to-people and cultural exchanges, establish a model of civilizational exchanges between China and Europe and around the world, and promote the building of a community with a shared future for mankind, said Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, a member of the Politburo of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and co-chairman of the 7th meeting of the China-France High-Level People-to-People Exchange Mechanism, along with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot, here on Friday.

Guided by the consensus of the two leaders, China and France have accelerated cooperation in many fields and achieved rich results over the past year, Wang said. Highlighting the success of the China-France Year of Culture and Tourism, he noted that hundreds of events have been held and more than 6,000 French students have visited China for exchanges and studies.

According to Wang Yi, the two sides have also started to hold thematic events, such as on carbon neutrality, preservation and restoration of cultural relics, or health care. This has demonstrated the viability of cultural and humanitarian exchanges between the two countries, he said.

Against the backdrop of a changing international situation intertwined with upheavals, the more frequent conflicts occur, the greater the need for the calm educational power of humanitarian exchanges, the more chaotic the world becomes, the more necessary it is to join forces to cope with confusion and chart the right course, the minister said.

The establishment of diplomatic relations between China and France was not just a handshake between two independent countries, but also a meeting of two great civilizations, Wang said. The China-France high-level people-to-people exchange mechanism has actively promoted cultural exchanges between the two countries and greatly deepened mutual understanding between the two peoples, he added.

The head of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs noted that this year marks the beginning of the next 60 years of Chinese-French relations, and the mechanism of humanitarian exchanges is entering the second decade of its existence.

Guided by the consensus of the heads of state, the two sides should carry forward the spirit of China-France diplomatic ties characterized by independence, mutual understanding, strategic vision and win-win cooperation, continuously deepen people-to-people and cultural exchanges, establish a model of civilizational exchanges between China and Europe and the world, and promote the building of a community with a shared future for mankind, Wang said.

In this regard, he made four proposals.

First, the two sides should strengthen youth exchanges. Wang Yi called for fully implementing Chinese President Xi Jinping’s initiative to increase the number of French students studying in China to more than 10,000 in the next three years, and making full use of exchange programs.

Secondly, it is necessary to develop cooperation at the subnational level. According to the minister, China and France should introduce new forms of exchanges and cooperation, intensify relations between sister cities, continue the work of the bilateral round table of mayors, and resume the work of the high-level forum on cooperation of local governments as soon as possible.

Third, travel facilitation should be promoted. Wang Yi called on the French to visit China more often and expressed hope that France would continue to simplify visa procedures for Chinese citizens to create more favorable conditions for mutual people-to-people exchanges.

Fourth, it is necessary to maintain a partnership driven by innovation. The minister called on the two sides to vigorously support the construction of the China-France Carbon Neutrality Center to promote green and low-carbon development, hold the second China-France Education Development Forum, and strengthen multilateral coordination to help build an open, inclusive and beautiful world.

In turn, Jean-Néric Barrot praised the rich and fruitful humanitarian exchanges, calling them a valuable asset that maintains strong bilateral relations and helps France and China jointly address global challenges.

France will continue to act in a spirit of openness and forward-lookingness, deepen cooperation with China in the fields of education, culture, scientific research, youth and cinema, as well as interaction at the subnational level, to build a close, high-quality and sustainable partnership, he said. -0-

MIL OSI Russia News –

July 6, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Qatar Affirms Keenness to Enhance Cooperation with Office of High Commissioner for Human Rights

Source: Government of Qatar

Geneva, July 4

The State of Qatar has affirmed keenness to enhance its cooperation with the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) and support it in fulfilling its mandate with regard to providing technical assistance and capacity building.

This came in the State of Qatar’s statement delivered by Second Secretary at the Permanent Mission of the State of Qatar to the United Nations Office in Geneva Abdulaziz Al Mansouri, during his participation in the annual panel discussion on technical cooperation and capacity building during the 59th Session of the Human Rights Council in Geneva, entitled “Technical assistance and capacity building – item 10.”

Al Mansouri highlighted the State of Qatar’s keenness to contribute to the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) to implement several programs, including the work of the United Nations Training and Documentation Centre in Doha.

He emphasized the importance of giving equal attention to all human rights, political, civil, economic, social, cultural, and the right to development, and treating them equally, within the framework of objective dialogue and positive, constructive cooperation.

He highlighted the importance of basing technical support and capacity building on countries’ priorities and needs, taking into account their national and regional specificities.

He considered the opening of the United Nations House in Doha, which houses a number of UN offices and agencies, an important step in strengthening multilateral international cooperation through the implementation of programs focused on technical cooperation and capacity building in various fields.

Abdulaziz Al Mansouri highlighted the importance of technical cooperation and capacity building in assisting countries and relevant national mechanisms, particularly national human rights institutions, to support their efforts and enhance their capabilities to carry out their mandates in promoting and protecting human rights.

MIL OSI Africa –

July 6, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Abuse of military force will increase conflicts – Chinese FM

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

PARIS, July 5 (Xinhua) — War is not a solution to the Iranian nuclear issue, and preemptive strikes obviously have no legitimacy, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, a member of the Politburo of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and a member of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said at a joint press conference with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot on Friday, stressing that the abuse of military force will only lead to further conflicts and hatred.

Asked about the situation in the Middle East, Wang Yi noted that the Iranian nuclear issue could serve as an example of resolving international disputes through dialogue and negotiations, but now it is sliding into a new round of the Middle East crisis. China is watching what is happening with regret, the minister said, adding that the lessons of these events should be carefully understood.

China’s position on the Iranian nuclear issue is clear and consistent, Wang Yi said. China attaches great importance to the repeated public commitments of Iran’s top leader to renounce developing nuclear weapons, he added. At the same time, China respects Iran’s right to peaceful use of nuclear energy as a party to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, the Foreign Minister emphasized.

On this basis, relevant parties can speed up negotiations on a new international agreement to resolve the Iranian nuclear issue and fully place Iran’s nuclear activities under the strict control and protection of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Wang said, saying the road to peace lies ahead and history will test the sincerity of all parties.

The recent military conflicts between Israel and Iran should not be repeated, the minister said, adding that the United States had set a negative precedent by openly firing on the nuclear facilities of a sovereign state.

Wang Yi warned that if such actions lead to a nuclear catastrophe, the entire world would bear the consequences.

The thesis of “peace through strength” is based on the logic of the politics of force, the minister said, calling for consideration of what will happen to rules and justice if only force dictates what is good and what is evil.

Power cannot bring true peace. On the contrary, it can open Pandora’s box, Wang Yi added, asking how less powerful countries, especially small and medium ones, should survive.

A genuine resolution to the situation with Iran’s nuclear program cannot bypass the key element of the Middle East problem, namely the Palestinian issue, the Foreign Minister said, adding that the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza must not continue any longer.

The Palestinian issue cannot be put on the back burner, the legitimate aspirations of the Arab people should be realized as soon as possible, and the fair voice of the entire Islamic world should be heard, Wang Yi said.

A two-state solution remains the only realistic way to break the cycle of chaos in the Middle East, and the international community must take more concrete and effective measures to advance it, he said.

China and France, as permanent members of the UN Security Council, should uphold justice, shoulder responsibility, support the resolution of conflicts through dialogue and negotiations, oppose any double standards, and determine their positions and policies based on their understanding of what is right and what is wrong in a given situation, Wang Yi stressed.

The UN and its Security Council should play their due role in consolidating peace, the foreign minister said, adding that China is ready to work with France to make unremitting efforts to achieve this goal. –0–

MIL OSI Russia News –

July 5, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: WFP delivers food inside Gaza amid restrictions and growing insecurity

Source: World Food Programme

GAZA, Palestine – The UN World Food Programme (WFP) continues to deliver life-saving food assistance inside Gaza despite deteriorating security, limited access, and growing desperation of communities in need of food assistance. A recent WFP assessment shows nearly one person in three is not eating for days, placing more people at risk of starvation. More than 700,000 people have been forced to relocate since March 18 as an estimated 85 percent of Gaza is now considered an active militarized zone.

Here are the latest updates on food insecurity and WFP operations in Gaza, including quotes from WFP Deputy Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer, Carl Skau, who is currently in Palestine:

WFP Operations inside Gaza

•    Since 21 May, when border crossings re-opened to limited amounts of aid, WFP teams have been able to dispatch dozens of aid convoys with more than 1,200 trucks carrying 18,247 metric tons (MT) of food aid inside Gaza. Despite these efforts, the food delivered to date is still a tiny fraction of what a population of over two million people need to survive.
•    The breakdown of the food aid brought into Gaza includes (as of 03 July):
o    12,275 MT of wheat flour for bread
o    5,828 MT of ready to eat rations
o    113 MT of emergency nutritional supplies
o    30 MT of yeast for baking
•    While most trucks carrying food assistance into Gaza have been intercepted by hungry civilian communities, WFP has been able to conduct some direct distributions. These include:
o    Food aid distributed directly to 24,649 people (5,357 households).
o    Nutrition prevention assistance to 102,544 children under five and pregnant and breastfeeding women across 92 active distribution sites.
o    Nutritional supplements to 11,125 people.
o    In June, 250,000 meals were also provided through 72 community kitchens with the help of food security partners.
•    Israeli authorities have provided written assurances that operating conditions inside Gaza will improve, and that more trucks will be able to carry food aid into Gaza.
•    The assurances also include the use of more routes and border crossing points with faster clearances, dependable communications, and without armed forces near convoys.
•    In agreement with Israeli authorities, WFP’s target is to bring 2,000 MT of food aid into Gaza every day (1,000 MT to the north, 1,000 MT to the south).
•    WFP stands ready to scale up food assistance into Gaza if a ceasefire comes into effect. We have experienced teams on the ground, and proven systems in place to respond at scale.
•    During the recent ceasefire, WFP facilitated nearly 40 percent of all humanitarian aid that entered Gaza, including 8,000 trucks of food, which helped push back the tide of hunger. The agency stands ready to do this again.
•    WFP has over 140,000 metric tons of food in or on its way to the region – enough to feed the entire population of 2.1 million people for two months.

Food Needs Inside Gaza
•    Inside Gaza, the fear of starvation and desperate need for food remains high.
•    A recent WFP assessment found nearly one person in three is not eating for days at a time.
•    Findings from the latest Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) report, show a high risk that famine will occur as conflict persists and humanitarian agencies are unable to provide essential aid.
•    Some 470,000 people are expected to face Catastrophic hunger (IPC Phase 5) between May and September of this year.
•    Malnutrition is surging and some 90,000 children and women urgently need treatment.
•    Food aid is the only real way for people to eat:
o    Flour for bread is 3,000 times more expensive than before the war – 23 euros per kilo of flour. And cooking fuel is simply nowhere to be found.

Requirements to Scale Operations
•    WFP stands ready to scale up and deliver life-saving assistance directly to the most vulnerable families in need. For this, WFP urgently calls for:
•    At least 100 aid trucks per day to be allowed through northern, central and southern border points.
•    Faster loading and dispatching of trucks from crossing points into Gaza.
•    No armed presence near convoy routes or civilian aid distribution points.
•    Uninterrupted connectivity to allow humanitarian organizations to coordinate effectively.
•    A sustained ceasefire that creates the necessary conditions for safe, scaled, and impactful humanitarian aid.

Note to editor

WFP Deputy Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer, Carl Skau, visited Gaza City on 1-2 July, talking to families there and assessing the humanitarian situation. The following quotes may be attributed to him:
•    “This is my fourth visit to Gaza since the start of the conflict. The situation is the worst I’ve ever seen. It’s hard to find words to describe the level of desperation I have witnessed. People are dying just trying to get food. Our kitchens are empty; they are now serving hot water with a bit of pasta floating in it. A mother told me she had gone to a kitchen hoping to find a hot meal and fainted there. There was nothing to eat and she went home without anything for her children. A father I met had lost 25 kgs in the past two months. People are starving, while we have food just across the border.”

•    “Our WFP teams in Gaza are doing heroic work under conditions that are simply impossible. They are frequently caught in cross-fire, they are stuck in steaming hot cars for 24 hours straight, escorting food convoys through combat zones. We don’t have enough fuel for our vehicles, or spare parts for our trucks or cars, or basic equipment to communicate. And our national staff are not just aid workers—they live here, they face the same dangers, the same hunger as the rest of the population. We can’t continue in these conditions.”

•    “A ceasefire is urgently needed. We stand ready to deliver – we have the food, the capacity and the systems to assist the entire population in Gaza. During the previous ceasefire, we showed what was possible: delivering over 8,000 trucks of food in only 42 days. We can do it again, but we need all routes and entry points to open, and we need safety and order to be able to reach most vulnerable. The ceasefire must also be the first step toward lasting peace.”

#          #          #

The United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters and the impact of climate change.

Follow us on X, formerly Twitter, via @wfp_media

MIL OSI United Nations News –

July 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Update on policing in London following proscription of Palestine Action
Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

Palestine Action has now been proscribed by the UK Government and expressing support for them is a criminal offence in the UK.

There are a number of events taking place in London this weekend and anyone attending should be aware that officers policing these will act where criminal offences, including those related to support of proscribed groups or organisations, are committed.

Under the Terrorism Act 2000 (TACT), the Home Secretary may proscribe an organisation if they believe it is concerned in terrorism and it is proportionate to do so.

Proscription makes it a criminal offence to invite or express support for a proscribed organisation through chanting, wearing clothing or display articles such as flags, signs or logos.

You can read more about proscribed groups or organisations on the UK Government website.

It is a criminal offence to:
- belong, or profess to belong, to a proscribed organisation in the UK or overseas (Section 11 TACT)
- invite support for a proscribed organisation (Section 12(1A) TACT)
- express an opinion or belief that is supportive of a proscribed organisation (Section 12(1A) TACT)
- arrange, manage or assist in arranging or managing a meeting in the knowledge that the meeting is to support or further the activities of a proscribed organisation, or is to be addressed by a person who belongs or professes to (Section 12(2) TACT)
- wear clothing or carry or display articles in public in such a way or in such circumstances as to arouse reasonable suspicion that the individual is a member or supporter of a proscribed organisation (Section 13 TACT)
- publish an image of an item of clothing or other article, such as a flag or logo, in the same circumstances (Section 13(1A) TACT)
If you have any concerns during an event speak to a police officer or event steward.

If you see material supporting terrorism online report it – visit www.gov.uk/ACT

You can also report suspicious activity by contacting the police in confidence on 0800 789 321.

In an emergency, or if you need urgent police assistance, you should always dial 999.

MIL Security OSI –
July 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Update on policing in London following proscription of Palestine Action
Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

Palestine Action has now been proscribed by the UK Government and expressing support for them is a criminal offence in the UK.

There are a number of events taking place in London this weekend and anyone attending should be aware that officers policing these will act where criminal offences, including those related to support of proscribed groups or organisations, are committed.

Under the Terrorism Act 2000 (TACT), the Home Secretary may proscribe an organisation if they believe it is concerned in terrorism and it is proportionate to do so.

Proscription makes it a criminal offence to invite or express support for a proscribed organisation through chanting, wearing clothing or display articles such as flags, signs or logos.

You can read more about proscribed groups or organisations on the UK Government website.

It is a criminal offence to:
- belong, or profess to belong, to a proscribed organisation in the UK or overseas (Section 11 TACT)
- invite support for a proscribed organisation (Section 12(1A) TACT)
- express an opinion or belief that is supportive of a proscribed organisation (Section 12(1A) TACT)
- arrange, manage or assist in arranging or managing a meeting in the knowledge that the meeting is to support or further the activities of a proscribed organisation, or is to be addressed by a person who belongs or professes to (Section 12(2) TACT)
- wear clothing or carry or display articles in public in such a way or in such circumstances as to arouse reasonable suspicion that the individual is a member or supporter of a proscribed organisation (Section 13 TACT)
- publish an image of an item of clothing or other article, such as a flag or logo, in the same circumstances (Section 13(1A) TACT)
If you have any concerns during an event speak to a police officer or event steward.

If you see material supporting terrorism online report it – visit www.gov.uk/ACT

You can also report suspicious activity by contacting the police in confidence on 0800 789 321.

In an emergency, or if you need urgent police assistance, you should always dial 999.

MIL Security OSI –
July 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Winnie Ho visits Barcelona

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

Secretary for Housing Winnie Ho met Deputy Mayor of Barcelona Jordi Valls Riera to discuss matters including housing policy and construction technologies as she began a two-day visit to the Spanish city yesterday.

Ms Ho met the deputy mayor, who oversees housing policy, economic affairs and tourism yesterday morning. She briefed him on the implementation of government-led Light Public Housing (LPH) projects in Hong Kong that use Modular Integrated Construction.

She highlighted that the first LPH project – at Yau Pok Road, Yuen Long – took only about one year to complete, and that the first phase of the project at Choi Hing Road in Ngau Tau Kok was completed in less than 18 months, a record for the construction of high-rise buildings in Hong Kong.

Ms Ho also outlined that the Housing Bureau and the Hong Kong Housing Authority are engaged in continuously optimising the city’s housing ladder to encourage more young people and families to ascend it.

She mentioned that in November the bureau will organise an international symposium in Hong Kong to showcase developments in construction technologies in Mainland China and Hong Kong to the world.

Later on, Ms Ho visited a social housing project, Modulus Matrix: 85 Social Housing, where timber frames were used to reduce carbon emissions and a modular design was adopted to shorten construction time.

Ms Ho then toured another social housing project, APROP-Glòries, in which converted containers are used to provide temporary accommodation to people in need.

Ms Ho highlighted that governments of both Hong Kong and Barcelona are dedicated to increasing their housing supply through swift and pragmatic measures, and to providing accommodation to families with urgent housing needs.

She added that she hoped the two places will continue to share experiences on relevant initiatives.

Ms Ho then paid a courtesy call on Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Barcelona Meng Yuhong, and briefed her on the various housing initiatives being implemented by the bureau.

These include leveraging the strengths of the Mainland cities in the Greater Bay Area to promote the development of housing construction technologies.

Today, the housing chief visited another social housing project, 72 Social Housing Units, to learn about its design characteristics and energy-efficient living environment.

In concluding her trip, Ms Ho observed that Hong Kong enjoys the unique advantage of having the strong support of the motherland while maintaining unparalleled connectivity with the world, as well as the strategic geographical benefit of being connected to the bay area.

She added that the visit had demonstrated how Hong Kong is giving full play to its roles as a super connector and super value-adder.

“I look forward to maintaining close exchanges with Portugal and Spain in areas including innovative construction technologies, people-oriented ‘Well-being design’ concepts and sustainable smart city development, and exploring further collaboration to create more opportunities for the industries and enterprises of the three places.”

Ms Ho will return to Hong Kong tomorrow morning.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

July 5, 2025
MIL-OSI: Audifort Drops: Unlock Natural Hearing Support and Echofree Tinnitus Enhance Health Naturally
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Miami, FL, July 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

Audifort Drops: Revolutionizing Hearing Health with Natural Ingredients

Audifort Drops is proud to announce the official launch of Audifort Drops; an innovative and natural solution designed to improve hearing health and enhance auditory function. With an increasing number of individuals seeking natural alternatives to traditional hearing aids and treatments, Audifort Drops offers a groundbreaking option that supports ear health with carefully selected, natural ingredients.

This new product is aimed at those who wish to maintain their hearing health, reduce the risk of age-related hearing loss, and improve sound clarity in a safe and effective way. Audifort Drops are designed for individuals who want to protect their ears from damage caused by environmental factors, aging, and lifestyle choices, all without resorting to invasive procedures or expensive hearing devices.

Experience the Difference in Hearing Health – Try Audifort Drops Today!

What Are Audifort Drops?

Audifort Drops are a specialized, natural supplement that supports hearing health by utilizing a combination of potent herbs, vitamins, and minerals. The formula was created to target the root causes of hearing loss, with ingredients that work together to support optimal auditory function and maintain the health of the inner ear.

These drops are simple to use and can be easily incorporated into a daily wellness routine. Whether you’re looking to maintain your hearing or improve your existing auditory function, Audifort Drops offer a safe, effective, and non-invasive solution.

Key Benefits of Audifort Drops:
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- Vitamins & Minerals: Essential nutrients like Vitamin B12, Vitamin D, and Magnesium are included to promote healthy nerve function and protect against damage caused by nutrient deficiencies.
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About Audifort

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Affiliate Disclosure:

This page may contain affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products and services that we believe will add value to our users. Your support helps us continue to provide helpful content.

Disclaimer:

Audifort Drops are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen. Individual results may vary, and the effectiveness of the product is not guaranteed. This product is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice.

Contact Information:

For media inquiries or further information, please contact:
Dave
Marketing Team
Audifort
Email: contact@audifort.com
Phone: 1-800-123-4567
Website: https://audifort.com/

Address:382 NE 191st St PMP 82029 Miami, FL, 33179

Attachment

The MIL Network –
July 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Direct flight connects China’s Urumqi with Kazakhstan’s Shymkent

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

URUMQI, July 5 (Xinhua) — A direct flight service was launched Saturday between Urumqi, capital of northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, and Shymkent in Kazakhstan.

The first flight, which was operated by Kazakhstan’s Scat Airlines, departed on the same day from Urumqi’s Tianshan International Airport. Flights on the new route are operated twice a week – on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Upon arrival from Urumqi to Shymkent, one of the transport hubs in the southern part of Kazakhstan, passengers can travel to Cairo, Istanbul, Moscow and others on the planes of the above-mentioned air carrier.

According to the Tianshan Airport Administration, the opening of this air route will further promote exchanges between the two regions in trade, economy, tourism and culture. Meanwhile, the transfer service in Shymkent will make travel from Xinjiang to the Middle East and Europe more convenient, promoting the development of people-to-people exchanges and trade ties.

In the first half of this year, 27 civil aviation airports in Xinjiang served 579 routes, including 26 passenger routes to Hong Kong, Macao, Taiwan and overseas, including 21 cities in Central Asia, Eastern Europe, West Asia and Southeast Asia. Currently, air traffic connects Urumqi with 10 cities in five Central Asian countries. -0-

MIL OSI Russia News –

July 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SEE attends SGREEN x We-recycle@School Competitions Award Ceremony (with photos)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

SEE attends SGREEN x We-recycle@School Competitions Award Ceremony The award ceremony today also featured 21 booths where awarded schools and other participating schools shared their knowledge on waste reduction and recycling, low-carbon living and ecological conservation through interactive exhibitions and booth games, demonstrating how to practise green living in daily life.

The We-recycle@School Activity was launched on March 1 last year, inviting primary and secondary schools in Hong Kong to participate in the activity which includes various waste reduction and recycling competitions with awards to encourage students and their family members to actively participate in waste reduction and recycling. In the 2024/25 school year, the SGREEN Inter-school Recycling Competition and other We-recycle@School competitions together collected about 132 000 kilograms of recyclables in total.
Issued at HKT 17:09

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CategoriesMIL-OSI

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

July 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Gallup Man Charged with Voluntary Manslaughter for Fatal Shooting

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

ALBUQUERQUE – A Gallup man is facing federal charges following a fatal shooting during an altercation.

According to court documents, on May 26, 2025, Herman Smith, 37, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, shot and killed John Doe during an altercation.

Smith is charged with voluntary manslaughter and using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence and will remain on conditions of release pending trial, which has not yet been scheduled. If convicted of the current charges, Smith faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years and up to life in prison.

U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Philip Russell, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

The Gallup Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jack Burkhead is prosecuting the case.

An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

MIL Security OSI –

July 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Gallup Man Charged with Voluntary Manslaughter for Fatal Shooting

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

ALBUQUERQUE – A Gallup man is facing federal charges following a fatal shooting during an altercation.

According to court documents, on May 26, 2025, Herman Smith, 37, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, shot and killed John Doe during an altercation.

Smith is charged with voluntary manslaughter and using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence and will remain on conditions of release pending trial, which has not yet been scheduled. If convicted of the current charges, Smith faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years and up to life in prison.

U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Philip Russell, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

The Gallup Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jack Burkhead is prosecuting the case.

An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

MIL Security OSI –

July 5, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Gallup Man Charged with Voluntary Manslaughter for Fatal Shooting

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

ALBUQUERQUE – A Gallup man is facing federal charges following a fatal shooting during an altercation.

According to court documents, on May 26, 2025, Herman Smith, 37, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, shot and killed John Doe during an altercation.

Smith is charged with voluntary manslaughter and using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence and will remain on conditions of release pending trial, which has not yet been scheduled. If convicted of the current charges, Smith faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years and up to life in prison.

U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Philip Russell, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

The Gallup Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jack Burkhead is prosecuting the case.

An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

MIL Security OSI –

July 5, 2025