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Category: Transport

  • Quad ministers demand bringing Pahalgam terrorists to justice, renew commitment to counterterrorism

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Renewing their commitment to work together to fight terrorism, the Quad foreign ministers on Tuesday demanded that all those responsible for the “reprehensible” Pahalgam terror attack be immediately brought to justice and countries concerned cooperate with the authorities.

    In a joint statement after their meeting on Tuesday, they said, “We call for the perpetrators, organisers, and financiers of this reprehensible act to be brought to justice without any delay and urge all UN Member States, in accordance with their obligations under international law and relevant UNSCRs (Security Council Resolutions), to cooperate actively with all relevant authorities in this regard.”

    “The Quad unequivocally condemns all acts of terrorism and violent extremism in all its forms and manifestations, including cross-border terrorism, and renews our commitment to counterterrorism cooperation,” the statement said.

    External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Foreign Ministers Penny Wong of Australia and Takeshi Iwaya of Japan representing the major democracies of the Indo-Pacific region met for their second ministerial meeting of the year.

    They said, “We condemn in the strongest terms the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22, 2025, which claimed the lives of 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen, while injuring several others. We express our deepest condolences to the families of the victims and extend our heartfelt wishes for a swift and full recovery to all those injured.”

    The statement did not name any country while calling for bringing the perpetrators of the massacre to justice, but the nation was obvious because The Resistance Front, which carried out the attack, is an arm of the Lashkar-e-Taiba, which is sheltered by Pakistan.

    Before the ministers met, Jaishankar said, “India has every right to defend its people against terrorism, and we will exercise that right.”

    “We expect our quad partners to understand and appreciate that,” he emphasised.

    The top diplomats said they looked forward to the Quad summit to be hosted later this year by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which will be attended by US President Donald Trump and Prime Ministers Anthony Albanese of Australia and Shigeru Ishiba of Japan.

    The ministers said that they “plan to launch the Quad Ports of the Future Partnership in Mumbai this year.”

    “To ensure the Quad’s enduring impact, we are pleased to announce today a new, ambitious, and strong agenda focused on four key areas: maritime and transnational security, economic prosperity and security, critical and emerging technology, and humanitarian assistance and emergency response. Through this renewed focus, we will sharpen the Quad’s ability to leverage our resources to address the region’s most pressing challenges,” the ministers added.

    The four areas are maritime and transnational security, economic prosperity and security, critical and emerging technology, and humanitarian assistance and emergency response.

    While their joint statement repeatedly spoke of threats to countries in the region from the use of force and coercion by China, they did not name it.

    “We remain seriously concerned about the situation in the East China Sea and South China Sea. We reiterate our strong opposition to any unilateral actions that seek to change the status quo by force or coercion. We express our serious concerns regarding dangerous and provocative actions, including interference with offshore resource development, the repeated obstruction of the freedoms of navigation and overflight, and the dangerous maneuvers by military aircraft and coast guard and maritime militia vessels, especially the unsafe use of water cannons and ramming or blocking actions in the South China Sea,” said the joint statement.

    While China was not mentioned, it had carried out all those actions against the Philippines, Vietnam, and South Korea, and it has been involved in disputes with Malaysia over offshore oil drilling.

    “These actions threaten peace and stability in the region”, they said. “We are seriously concerned by the militarisation of disputed features.”

    The ministers expressed concern over the disruptions to the supply chain, particularly of critical minerals and said it was important to diversify supplies.

    They announced a concrete measure to deal with this problem: “We are launching today the Quad Critical Minerals Initiative, an ambitious expansion of our partnership to strengthen economic security and collective resilience by collaborating to secure and diversify critical minerals supply chains.”

    To strengthen the Quad’s ability to carry out relief in natural disasters – a mission that gave initial shape to the group – the ministers said they plan to host the first Quad Indo-Pacific Logistics Network field training exercise this year.

    It aims “to strengthen shared airlift capacity and leverage our collective logistics strengths to respond to natural disasters more rapidly and efficiently, providing support for regional partners,” the statement said.

    They condemned North Korea’s missile and nuclear weapons programmes and demanded that it follow United Nations Security Council resolutions and end them.

    They also expressed “grave concern over North Korea’s malicious cyber activity, including cryptocurrency theft and use of workers abroad to fund North Korea’s unlawful weapons of mass destruction and ballistic missile programs.”

    Pyongyang has sent its citizens to fight on behalf of Russia in Ukraine.

    Closer to home, the ministers said they were “deeply concerned by the worsening crisis in Myanmar and its impact on the region.”

    They called on the military regime and all groups involved “to implement, extend and broaden ceasefire measures.”

    (With inputs from IANS)

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Oil, Watercolor and Gallic: Participants of the Art in the Metro Project Talk Creativity and Inspiration

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The Moscow metro is not only a popular means of public transport, but also a cultural venue for talented Muscovites. The project has been underway in the capital for nine years now “Music in the Metro”, and recently another project for creative people – “Art in the Metro”— celebrated its first anniversary. It united more than 250 artists working in different genres and techniques, who can create paintings at 10 sites at metro stations, as well as take part in off-site events and even try their hand at creating a new design for the Troika card. The second season of the project is currently underway, and the recruitment of artists continues.

    A mos.ru correspondent spoke with the participants of the “Art in the Metro” project and found out how they are inspired by the architecture of the stations and passengers rushing about their business.

    Pandas on Michurinsky Prospekt

    Artist Yulia Ershova painted a passenger reading enthusiastically in a train car, sculptures of Romulus and Remus at the Rimskaya station, and flying seagulls on the ceiling of Mayakovskaya on the Zamoskvoretskaya Line. Another of her paintings depicts three pandas chewing bamboo at the Michurinsky Prospekt station on the Big Circle Line (BCL).

    “This is my favorite station. It is decorated in an oriental style: it has red columns and lamps with Chinese ornaments. I thought, what can you imagine in such an environment? Why not put pandas there, who came to

    Moscow Zoo from China? Now this painting can be seen at the exhibition “Red” in the gallery of the creative association “Artists of Chertanovo”, – says Yulia Ershova.

    She learned about “Art in the Metro” from her artist friends who got into the project during the first recruitment, successfully passed the in-person round and created about 30 works in a year. Yulia Ershova prefers to work in oil, but when she needs to make a quick sketch, she takes up watercolor.

    “The artist’s mission is to draw people’s attention to beauty that they may not notice in the rhythm of a big city. I remember a passenger on the Aminyevskaya BKL saw my work on an easel and at first could not understand where such beauty came from. And then she recognized the station ceiling. She often rides here, but did not notice how unusual it is, and now she looked up for the first time,” says Yulia Ershova.

    This season she continues to participate in the project. “The metro is interesting to draw, and I am glad that I have been given such a unique opportunity to create in this atmosphere,” the mos.ru interlocutor emphasizes.

    “Dostoevskaya” with salt and ink

    Another participant of the last season, Ekaterina Bulgakova, was inspired by the Dostoevskaya metro station of the Lyublinsko-Dmitrovskaya line. The artist was struck by its marble slabs. She managed to convey their texture using a special technique.

    “To depict a marble pattern, I first began to combine acrylic paints, watercolors and the author’s technique “gallitika”. It uses ink and salt, which gives beautiful textured streaks. Now I plan to further develop this method of drawing,” says Ekaterina Bulgakova.

    During her year of participation in the project, she created about 20 works. The artist was especially inspired by the BKL stations. In her paintings, she depicted the art object “Moscow Rings”, located at the entrance to “Nizhegorodskaya”, and the interiors of “Khoroshevskaya”.

    “I also dedicated one of my works to passengers. I depicted a stream of people hurrying at the Kitay-Gorod station, wrote down their possible thoughts, and added an old map of the area. It turned out to be a collage. It is impossible to imagine the metro without passengers. People often even came up to watch me draw and asked questions. Someone admitted that they were 20 years old and it was boring to study in their chosen specialty. And someone wanted to learn to draw at 60. I supported them and said that it is not too late to start at any age,” the interviewee notes.

    The artist did not initially plan to engage in creative work either. She received a higher education in economics, then completed an internship with teachers from the Russian State University of Art and Industry named after S.G. Stroganov, graduated from the School of Design of the National Research University Higher School of Economics and began to paint. This year, she is preparing to capture the capital’s metro on canvas again.

    “The metro is developing at a rapid pace, but the new stations are not inferior to the old ones in terms of design. They are incredible. I am grateful to the project organizers for the fact that we can draw here,” shares Ekaterina Bulgakova.

    “Art in the Metro”: the project’s artists worked in a tram depot for the first timeParticipants of the Art in the Metro project depicted stations of the Big Circle LineParticipants of the Art in the Metro project created works of art on digital tablets for the first time

    Walk through the tunnel and trains from different eras

    Project participant Ekaterina Gavrilova also considers the metro an invaluable source of ideas for paintings. The artist is fascinated by the architecture of the last century, so she is especially inspired by the very first stations and their design.

    “The main goal of the Art in the Metro project is to draw people’s attention to what surrounds them every day. For example, you can take a closer look at the doors of the Oktyabrskaya metro station. Every detail in their patterns is thought out, forming a single composition,” says Ekaterina Gavrilova.

    The interviewee of mos.ru has been drawing since childhood and was inspired by the works of Isaac Levitan, so she entered the Russian Academy of Painting, Sculpture and Architecture of Ilya Glazunov and successfully graduated from it. Ekaterina Gavrilova has been participating in the project since its inception. In the metro, she has created more than 20 works in a realistic style with elements of minimalism. Most of all, she liked to draw at the Komsomolskaya, Park Kultury and Taganskaya stations of the Circle Line, as well as at Kievskaya on the Arbatsko-Pokrovskaya line.

    “Thanks to the project, we didn’t just go down to the metro to draw, but went to interesting and unusual events. One night, we visited the tunnel of the Shelepikha station of the Big Circle Line (the Delovoy Tsentr – Shelepikha – Khoroshevskaya section of the Big Circle Line has been temporarily closed since June 22. – Note from mos.ru). We had a couple of hours after the contact rail was disconnected. Under the supervision of the shift supervisor, we walked through the tunnel. In addition, I attended an event at the Izmailovo depot. There, I created a painting called “Two Epochs”, where trains from the last century and our time stand side by side,” recalls artist Ekaterina Gavrilova.

    In her work, she uses not only oil, but also watercolour markers, tempera and gouache. She likes to experiment. For example, the artist depicted the Maryina Roshcha BKL station digitally – on a tablet, since she considers the space itself futuristic. And while working at Kievskaya, Ekaterina Gavrilova noticed two city women enthusiastically talking to each other. This scene formed the basis for the work “Morning News”.

    “The lobby of the Kyiv station is an atrium space framed by Corinthian capitals in a semicircle. The architects’ concept is a place for a temporary break from the road and meetings. The interior is pompous: columns, mosaics, gold. I think the space itself suggested the plot to me. The most wonderful thing in such walls is to engage in creativity. And passengers feel it. That is why the projects “Art in the Metro” and “Music in the Metro” have so many viewers,” the mos.ru interlocutor notes.

    Engage passengers in creativity

    Nikolay Bazunov also took part in the first season of the project. He found inspiration in metro trains.

    “I like the design of rolling stock from the 1940s to 1970s, which is attractive in its simplicity – smooth lines, round headlights. Thanks to my participation in the “Art in the Metro” project, I visited the Severnoye and Izmailovo depots, where I drew historical trains. I even managed to sit in the driver’s cabin of a retro train that runs on the Sokolnicheskaya line,” the artist says.

    Nikolay Bazunov associates the metro with the Great Patriotic War and memories of his relatives. During the bombing, his grandmother and mother hid at the Mayakovskaya station. The artist found a black-and-white photograph taken in 1941 and painted a picture for the anniversary of the Great Victory, where he depicted Muscovites hiding in the metro.

    “There is an interesting incident connected with this work. I was painting it at the Park Kultury station and stepped away for five minutes. I came back and there was a girl standing next to the painting and trying to make the image lighter with my brush. She explained that she found the work gloomy. And I smiled,” recalls Nikolai Bazunov.

    The artist prefers to work with oil on canvas. He compares his work to a musician’s performance. The palette is a turntable with discs, like a DJ’s, the brush is a conductor’s baton. While working, Nikolai Bazunov stands with his back to the passengers so that they can see his painting and express their opinion.

    “I have been participating in the Art in the Metro project since its inception, and have painted about 10 works. This season, I have joined it again not only as a participant, but also as a jury member. I help select artists. It is important to me that a person finds himself in the project, that he finds it interesting, that he can enjoy creativity and inspire others with his example,” emphasizes Nikolai Bazunov.

    This year he plans to paint a series of pictures based on a series of science fiction novels about the metro.

    The recruitment of artists for the second season of the project “Art in the Metro” is ongoing. To become a participant, you need to apply towebsite. The selection of finalists is carried out by an expert commission with the participation of representatives of the capital Department of Transport and Development of Road Transport Infrastructure and associations “Exhibition halls of Moscow”.

    Three new venues for the Art in the Metro project have appeared on the Big Circle LineParticipants of the Art in the Metro project created paintings at the Kitay-Gorod stationPortrait of Dostoevsky and a sketch of a stranger: what works were created by participants of the project “Art in the Metro”Artists of the Art in the Metro project will develop a New Year’s design for thematic Troika cards

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

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

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

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/156113073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Territory of reasonable decisions: how Muscovites are helped to improve their financial literacy

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The popularity of educational projects on financial literacy is growing in the capital. Master classes, games, quizzes, film lectures and other interactive activities help city residents of all ages understand financial issues. The events are held by the capital’s Department of Finance together with the financial literacy center and partners.

    “We talk to Muscovites about finances where it is convenient for them and in a way that interests them: in schools and universities, libraries, festivals and parks. In 2024 alone, over 560 events of various formats were held in the capital. And this year there will be even more. It is important that Muscovites receive not only new knowledge, but also practical skills: they learn to handle money wisely and make thoughtful financial decisions,” she noted.

    Elena Zyabbarova, Minister of the Moscow Government, head of the capital’s Department of Finance.

    The meetings go beyond the usual spaces and are already becoming part of the urban environment. Thus, this summer, financial literacy days were held at the Northern and Southern river terminals – these are new city platforms for such conversations.

    Another major event is Festival of financial literacy and entrepreneurial culture in Moscow. It has been held since 2017 by the capital’s departments of finance, education and science, as well as the Bank of Russia, and has become a traditional city educational event for city residents of all ages who want to improve their level of financial literacy and learn the basics of entrepreneurship. Last year, the festival lasted a whole week and covered more than 200 sites, including the Moscow Center for Education Quality, schools, colleges, universities, Moscow Longevity Centers, My Work and My Career employment centers, libraries and the Digital Business Space. More than 500 thousand people took part in online and offline events. This coming autumn, the festival will return with a rich program.

    Classes to improve financial literacy are integrated into major events and festivals, including Biblionight, Night at the Museum, and Red Square. Most often, city residents are interested in how to avoid being scammed, invest, and plan their personal budget.

    Modern formats make such events more lively and exciting. In 2024, a financial stand-up and a VR simulator appeared, with the help of which you can practice your personal finance management skills.

    Financial Literacy in Libraries

    For more than two years now, thematic meetings have been held for residents of the capital near their homes. As part of the project “ABCs of Financial Literacy”, which covers all age groups, lectures, business games, film lectures and other events are organized in Moscow libraries.

    City residents discuss familiar life situations with experts, including how to plan a family budget, what to consider when applying for a loan, and how not to become a victim of fraudsters. Event announcements can be found on social networks and city library websites.

    Name for the project Muscovites themselves chose. More than 170 thousand people took part in the voting on the Active Citizen platform.

    Financial Literacy in Film

    One of the most original formats is film lectures in Moscow cinemas. This is an unusual way to involve city residents in managing their personal finances, even if they have not been seriously interested in this before.

    Together with experts, viewers watch famous Soviet and Russian films, including “Courier”, “Moneychangers”, “Russian Money”, “Domovoy”, “Family Budget”. And then they analyze the behavior of the characters from the point of view of financial literacy: what went wrong, and could it have been done differently?

    Soviet films raise topics that remain relevant today, they are simply presented through the prism of modern realities. For example, the film “Beware of the Car” raises questions about car insurance.

    The project is being implemented with the support of the Moskino cinema chain and Department of Culture of Moscow.

    Financial Literacy at Work

    The rhythm of the metropolis does not always leave time for self-education, so a project for financial education of employees of work collectives has appeared in Moscow. Organizations can invite experts to conduct lectures and master classes directly at workplaces – offline or online. All events are free, and the topic can be chosen depending on the request of employees.

    The focus is most often on cybersecurity, personal budget management, consumer protection, investment basics, taxation and lending. Listeners can choose from interactive lectures, master classes, financial quizzes and case studies.

    You can determine the topic, format and time of classes, as well as sign up for the waiting list by link.

    Financial Literacy for Children and Youth

    The upbringing of a financially literate person begins at an early age. Thematic classes and events with elements of financial literacy are organized by Department of Education and Science of the City of MoscowIn addition, children can take part in Olympiads and quizzes, quizzes and quests, meet with representatives of large Russian companies and attend lessons taught by representatives of the Federal Financial Monitoring Service (Rosfinmonitoring).

    The capital’s Department of Finance is implementing several projects on financial literacy for children and young people. Kindergartens regularly host events for preschoolers, schools host open lessons on financial and budget literacy, and children’s city camps host interactive classes during the holidays. Starting this year, they can be visited not only in the summer, but also in the spring and fall. Primary school students will learn about the origin of funds, rules for financial security and rational purchases, and will also create a model of their bank card and take part in a quiz.

    Experts can also be invited to colleges and universities. Heads of educational institutions choose what will really interest students, including quizzes, educational lectures or cartoons on financial topics. Questions related to budget planning, the history of money, financial security and lending remain popular with young people. You can send an application to link.

    Separate tracks for children’s audiences were also provided at citywide events. While adults listen to lectures on smart family budget planning, children can play the tactile game “Guess What?”, analyze the financial behavior of popular cartoon characters, or take part in the quiz “Secrets of Financial Security.”

    Financial Literacy for the Older Generation

    Older city residents actively participate in educational events with experts, which take place in Moscow longevity centers, libraries and other venues, as well as at major festivals. Muscovites of the “silver” age learn how to make purchases on the Internet, protect personal data and avoid spontaneous spending.

    Experts also talk about aspects of inheritance law in Russia, forms of wills and the specifics of drafting them. It is important that listeners can get answers to their questions on the spot and analyze their personal financial situations.

    In addition, the Moscow Longevity project offers regular classes on financial and legal literacy. The course programs are designed to take into account the interests of the older audience. You can find out more at the Moscow Longevity Centers and on the portal Mos.ru.

    Financial Literacy for People with Disabilities

    Special attention is paid to financial education of citizens with disabilities. Muscovites with visual impairments will be able to attend lectures at the Russian State Library for the Blind and listen to educational programs recorded by the Department of Finance on Internet radio. People with hearing impairments have the opportunity to access educational videos with sign language interpretation. This allows us to cover all segments of the population and create a truly inclusive educational environment.

    Tax deductions and banking products: Moscow launches financial literacy project for the visually impairedMoscow projects to improve financial literacy are recognized as the best in Russia

    Financial literacy in new formats

    Technology is an important component of educational formats. In 2024, an updated version of the financial checkup was presented – an online test that helps assess your knowledge. More than 4.3 thousand people took it. This can be done at any time by linkBy answering a few questions, everyone will find out their level of financial literacy and receive personal recommendations and links to useful materials for further self-education.

    The VR simulator is no less popular. Participants get the opportunity to immerse themselves in a virtual space, where they try themselves in the role of a tax consultant or bank employee and make important decisions on loans and tax deductions. You can practice budget management skills at the events of the Department of Finance.

    Economically active Muscovites have a high level of financial literacy

    Financial Literacy Online

    Those who prefer to study remotely can also easily find the necessary information. Useful materials, event announcements and links are published on the portal “Open Budget of the City of Moscow” and in the same name telegram channel.

    Budget literacy

    Budget literacy projects are also being developed in Moscow. One example is the “Budget for Citizens” competition. The participants are mainly schoolchildren and students. They make guidebooks, draw comics, brochures and posters, develop educational websites, create educational videos and cartoons, and come up with business, board and computer games.

    The organizers analyze the competition entries and try to take into account useful suggestions. The most interesting ideas are implemented in educational projects. Department of FinanceThe works of the winners of the capital competition are also highly valued at the federal level.

    Get the latest news quickly official telegram channelthe city of Moscow.

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

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

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/156131073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Summer of a young volunteer: how to spend your holidays usefully

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The resource center invites young city residents to spend their holidays usefully and with interesting activities “Mosvolonter”. Summer is the perfect time to try volunteering and gain invaluable experience. Children and teenagers can participate in city events, learn about volunteering with their parents, attend master classes in“Good Places”.

    “Volunteering helps children develop and acquire important social skills, and cultivate leadership qualities. They learn to interact in a team, be proactive and responsible. Volunteering gives children a unique opportunity to discover new and interesting areas of activity, choose a future profession, create their first good projects and find like-minded people,” says Alexander Levit, director of the Mosvolonter resource center.

    Volunteering can be introduced from an early age. Caring for the world around you and wanting to help others will naturally become part of your child’s life.

    Where to start as a volunteer

    Anyone can become a volunteer in the capital. To do this, you need to register on the website Mosvolonter.ru, create a personal account and choose an event to your liking. You can help in volunteer projects independently from the age of 14. Younger children participate with their parents. Volunteers under 18 will need written consent from official representatives.online learning platform At the Mosvolonter resource center you can learn the basics of volunteer work, get acquainted with all its areas and the history of the city.

    Parents can help a young city dweller choose a direction for volunteering. A mother or father, like no one else, can inspire a child to participate in volunteer activities by their own example. This will become a good family tradition or one of the options for joint leisure. For example, you can collect waste paper, plastic and bottle caps with your children and hand them over to a special box in one of the volunteer centers “Good Place”.

    During the holidays, families often take part in clean-up days, creative workshops, sports events, restore books in libraries, walk dogs in shelters, create toys, leashes and other things for them. Together, you can join the initiatives of charitable organizations. This will allow children to feel that they themselves can change the world for the better, give joy and warmth to those who need it. The children will spend their holidays brightly and interestingly – they will learn new skills, meet other volunteers and find friends.

    The Mosvolonter Resource Center has developed educational materials for children cartoons about volunteering. In them, the characters show that everyone has the power to help not only the people around them, but also the entire city. Young viewers will learn that good deeds can be done even on a walk with friends and classmates.

    For children, Mosvolonter has compiled list of good deeds for the holidays. These are simple and exciting tasks. The fairy tale characters tell you how to complete them.

    The children will learn how to make a bird feeder, why it is necessary to collect plastic caps, how to support the elderly, and where to find those who are ready to fix their favorite books.

    Young volunteers can also do their first good deed at the children’s volunteer center “Good Place” in the KidZania Career Park. There, children will learn how to help people and nature, and try themselves out as zoo volunteers.

    Where to apply your talents?

    The website of the resource center “Mosvolonter” not only introduces areas of volunteer activity, but also allows you to choose event to their liking. Children explore the possibilities of professional application of their abilities in the future, learn about the activities of capital organizations, choose an interesting area of assistance and inspire friends to participate together.

    For example, on July 5, a workshop on Family, Love and Fidelity Day will be held at Dobroe Mesto. SZAO.paintings on ceramics. Participants will learn the secrets of the Russian folk craft “Gzhel” and create unusual plates painted with acrylic paints together with their children. Parents will receive useful tips on how to have fun and educational time with their child at home. Experts will tell about unusual creative techniques and new ideas for joint leisure. The event is free, pre-registration is required.

    In addition, you can join the volunteer corps of humanitarian aid collection headquarters “Moscow helps”, and also to bring essential goods to residents of new and border regions. As part of the project “Summer in Moscow” “Houses of Kindness” have been opened throughout the city, where they accept gifts for participants in the special military operation, children living in new territories, and also goods for animals.

    This year, young volunteers are indispensable helpers inInternational Volunteer Corps 80th anniversary of the victory in the Great Patriotic War. The brightest summer event was the patriotic action “Memory Line” on the Krymskaya embankment, where many took part together with their parents.

    Start from the school desk

    Many volunteer teams in schools do not go on vacation. Thanks to teachers, children continue to participate in volunteer events and do good deeds for the residents of their district and region. Young Muscovites can learn about the volunteer team and summer activities from the teacher-organizer or educational advisor at their school.

    Volunteering is also useful for those who are already thinking about their future studies at a university. In the summer, you can start accumulating volunteer hours to receive additional points when entering a university. Each university or institute has the right to independently set the number of points (from one to 10). Participation in volunteer activities to receive additional points when entering must be confirmed. This will help to do the main document of the volunteer – personal e-book of a volunteer.

    Schools and other organizations that develop volunteerism are constantly improving their competencies and have access to the most modern educational materials and manuals. Helps in their selection special serviceIt presents the “ABCs of a Volunteer”, a collection of good deeds, the “Moscow Guide” publication, the board games “Volunteers in the City” and “Five Keys”, “A Guide to a Moscow Volunteer”, as well as a practical course for managers, manuals for trainers and organizers of volunteer associations.

    Organizing volunteer activities and involving residents in city events are in line with the objectives of the national project “Youth and Children” and the federal project “We are together”.

    You can find out more about volunteering on the resource center website “Mosvolonter”, as well as on the social network page “VKontakte” and in telegram channel.

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

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

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

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/156152073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Experts talk about city projects for pets

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    On International Dog Day, which is celebrated on July 2, experts from the Department of Information Technology and the Veterinary Committee of the capital told about city projects for pets, and also prepared a number of useful recommendations that will come in handy in the summer.

    “The capital is developing an ecosystem of services and digital projects for pets, thanks to which owners can take care of the health of their pets, make appointments with veterinarians at state clinics, learn more about nearby dog parks and rules for walking in public places. For example, on the page of the super service “My Pet” you can study the recommendations of veterinarians on the proper care and responsible keeping of pets, view the outpatient card of your pet with dates and information about the results of appointments, prescriptions and vaccinations,” the press service said.

    Department of Information Technology of the City of Moscow.

    Summer is a special time for dogs and their owners. This is the time when you can run through the forest, swim in ponds, explore the corners of the city with your four-legged friend. However, it is very important to take into account the weather conditions and the characteristics of your pets. In the heat, they can become dehydrated and even suffer from sunstroke. In such weather, the animal should have access to drinking water, but you should not wet the dog’s head and back – this can cause overheating, because the fur protects the pet, and when water gets in, the sun’s rays instantly warm it up to the skin. You can wet the dog’s nose and lower part with water: armpits, stomach and paws.

    Veterinarians also do not recommend cutting the animal, unless it is provided for by the breed characteristics. The coat performs an important function of thermoregulation: it creates an air layer that helps the dog to stay cool and protects the skin from the harmful effects of sunlight, preventing sunburn and the development of skin diseases. Experts recommend combing the undercoat of pets more often in hot weather, reducing physical activity and changing the walking schedule so that the animal is in the sun as little as possible. And if the summer is cool, then after cutting some dogs may begin to freeze and even catch a cold.

    Treatment against ticks and other parasites is another important point that must be taken into account before a walk in the park, forest or going out into nature. These can be collars impregnated with a special composition, drops on the withers or tablets for oral administration.

    “Not a single antiparasitic agent can guarantee complete protection against ticks. Therefore, it is necessary to regularly examine your pet during a walk, as well as after it, to make sure that there are no parasites in the fur and on the skin. Finding the pest can be difficult, especially on a thick-haired dog or cat, but you should not neglect this. If you find a tick, you should remove it yourself or seek help from a veterinary clinic,” the press service of the Moscow City Veterinary Committee noted.

    You can study veterinarians’ advice on keeping and caring for animals and view your pet’s outpatient card in the super service “My pet”.

    If the animal feels unwell, refuses to eat, and its activity has sharply decreased, it is necessary to contact a veterinarian. You can call him at home by phone: 7 495 612-12-12.

    You can find out more about the rules for walking pets, as well as view a map with the addresses of specialized sites in all areas of the capital on the special project page “To the park – with the dog” on the mos.ru portal.

    Many public spaces, cafes and shops in the capital allow visiting with a pet. If the owner plans to explore new corners of the city with their four-legged companion, it is important to remember that the collar or harness should have an address tag with the owner’s phone number and contact information. The presence of a microchip, which is installed in clinics, will also help find the animal if it gets lost. If the pet runs away during a walk and then ends up in a veterinary clinic or shelter, specialists will read the chip with a scanner, find the owner’s contact information in the database and contact him. The chip is absolutely harmless to animals, and its installation takes only a few minutes. You can make an appointment with a doctor at the nearest state clinic to install a chip at mos.ru portal.

    And within the framework of the capital project “Summer in Moscow” More than 200 events for owners of four-legged friends are planned. They will meet with dog handlers, zoologists and veterinarians. In addition, 10 family and sports festivals “Tailed Starts” will be held during the summer. On weekends, experienced specialists give lectures in an equipped veterinary mobile about the health and maintenance of different breeds of dogs, talk about disease prevention, proper nutrition, the need for regular examinations and vaccinations of pets. There is also a mobile office “Mobile Grooming”, where specialists will carry out a set of procedures for the care of the coat, skin, claws, ears and eyes of dogs free of charge.

    The super service “My Pet” began operating in the summer of 2023. It was created jointly by the capital’s State Services Committee, the Veterinary Committee and the Department of Information Technology.

    The use of digital technologies to improve the quality of life of city residents is in line with the objectives of the national program “Digital Economy of the Russian Federation”and the regional project of the city of Moscow “Digital Public Administration”.

    Quickly find out the main news of the capital in official telegram channel the city of Moscow.

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: Several embankments and streets in the city center will be closed on July 5

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    In connection with the Moscow Night Bike Festival, traffic will be temporarily closed on a number of embankments and streets in the city center on July 5.

    Thus, from 21:00 on July 4 to 18:30 on July 5 and from 00:01 to 07:00 on July 6, one traffic lane will be closed on Luzhniki Street from house 8 (building 1) to Luzhnetskaya Embankment, as well as on the section of Luzhnetskaya Embankment from Luzhniki Street to the Third Transport Ring.

    In addition, on July 5 from 18:30 until the end of the event, traffic on Luzhniki Street will be temporarily restricted. This will affect the section from house 8 (building 1) to Luzhnetskaya Embankment. From 21:00 on July 5 until 00:30 on July 6, it will be impossible to drive along the section of Bogorodskoye Highway from Veteranov Avenue to 1st Polevoy Lane.

    In addition, on July 5 from 10:00 pm until the end of the bike festival, Veteranov Avenue and several embankments will be closed to traffic: Luzhnetskaya (from Luzhniki Street to the intersection with Luzhnetskaya Embankment), Prechistenskaya, Kremlevskaya, Moskvoretskaya, Podgorskaya, Bernikovskaya, Nikoloyamskaya, Andronyevskaya, Zolotorozhskaya, Krasnokazarmennaya, Golovinskaya, Gospitalnaya, Semenovskaya, Preobrazhenskaya and Gannushkina Embankment.

    Parking will be temporarily prohibited in all restricted areas from 00:01 on July 5 until the end of the event.

    Drivers are advised to plan their route in advance, taking into account traffic changes. Full details can be found on the website Traffic Management Center.

    Get the latest news quickly official telegram channel the city of Moscow.

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: First steps in a career: more than 70 thousand ninth-graders received career guidance this academic year

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Moscow helps schoolchildren better understand their interests, abilities, strengths and consciously choose a specialty to build a career. For this purpose, the center “Professions of the Future” a comprehensive career guidance program for ninth-graders is in operation. More than 70 thousand children have completed it this academic year.

    “The ninth grade is a very important stage in the life of every schoolchild, when he or she first independently determines their career path. At the Professions of the Future center, as part of the comprehensive career guidance program, teenagers can get a quality start for their development and a real idea of the situation on the labor market. Last academic year, the center welcomed more than 70 thousand schoolchildren, and the number of participants in the comprehensive career guidance program since its launch has exceeded 130 thousand. As Sergei Sobyanin noted in

    development strategies for the social protection system of Moscow until 2030, the capital will continue to scale up the comprehensive career guidance program. Every teenager will be able to make an informed choice of their future profession,” said Andrey Tarasov, director of the Moscow employment service and head of the Professions of the Future center.

    The first stage of the program introduces in-demand professions. Schoolchildren are immersed in the world of professions with the help of an interactive 5D cinema, which has no analogues in Russia, and a VR simulator, allowing them to try on the professions of a welder, turner, barista, baker, waiter, electric train driver and other professions.

    Then, ninth-graders undergo career guidance testing and receive individual consultations from representatives of Moscow colleges and career guidance specialists. Over the past academic year, schoolchildren’s interest in industrial specialties has grown by 1.5 times compared to the previous period, and in construction professions – by two times.

    Professional trials occupy a special place in the comprehensive career guidance program. Schoolchildren visit modern workshops and laboratories of 48 Moscow colleges, where they can try their hand at different areas. This academic year, ninth-graders have passed professional trials in colleges more than 57 thousand times. In addition, over 20 thousand children have visited excursions to more than 250 of the largest organizations and enterprises of the capital. Schoolchildren got acquainted with potential employers and production processes in various fields.

    In addition, the Professions of the Future center developed a special career guidance program for parents of teenagers. During the school year, experts held PROSubbota meetings every month, where they talked about promising professions and gave practical recommendations on choosing a career path. At such events, parents and children could communicate with representatives of colleges and leading employers in Moscow, ask questions and learn about the requirements of the modern labor market.

    The Moscow City Employment Service is the largest state personnel operator that helps residents of the capital find work. Its structure includes employment offices, many of which are located in the My Documents government service centers. The flagship centers are open at the following addresses: Kuusinen Street, Building 2, Building 1, and Shabolovka Street, Building 48. The specialized My Career employment center is located on Sergiya Radonezhskogo Street (Building 1, Building 1).

    At the Professions of the Future center (38 Shchepkina Street, Building 1), you can master one of 75 in-demand specialties in various sectors of the economy in a maximum of three and a half months. Career mentors will help you find a job after completing your training. The center’s partners include more than three thousand employers. In addition, a comprehensive career guidance program for ninth-grade students is being implemented here.

    The admissions campaign in Moscow colleges began on June 26. Applicants can apply online at mos.ru portal simultaneously for five specialties in one educational institution or distribute the choice between several colleges. Detailed information about the professions and specialties taught in the capital’s colleges is posted onwebsite, in the telegram channel“Colleges of Moscow” and the community of the same name on the social network “VKontakte”.

    The admissions campaign has begun at the Moscow Government UniversityGraduates will be able to choose a university and specialty with the help of “MES”Moscow Fashion Week experts give advice to future fashion university studentsMoscow State Pedagogical Univ. will host a summer festival for applicants, students and graduates

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

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: Rozhdestvensky and Strastnoy Boulevards invite you to art master classes

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Decorating and painting products, making cards with floral decor, watercolor painting and 3D appliques – on Rozhdestvensky and Strastnoy Boulevards as part of the project “Summer in Moscow” unique creative workshops operate. All those who wish are taught the main modern artistic techniques there. The program is suitable for all ages, and participation in it is free.

    Masks with decor and smalt mosaic on Rozhdestvensky Boulevard

    Rozhdestvensky Boulevard This summer, it became one of the most vibrant cultural venues in the capital. There is a creative workshop here, where classes are held in a variety of decorative and fine arts. Everyone will be able to not only learn more about artistic techniques, but also create a full-fledged art piece with their own hands – a painted mask, a painted canvas, as well as a mosaic made of smalt or graffiti.

    Master classes on Thursday, July 3, will be devoted to decorating and painting cardboard products. From 13:00 to 14:00, participants will decorate masks in the form of a rabbit or ice cream, using gouache, felt-tip pens and colored pencils. The final touch will be decorative elements – pompoms, confetti, dried flowers and glitter. This work will suit even the youngest participants, who will make a unique souvenir with their own hands.

    On Friday, July 4th, at the same time, a master class “Paintings by Famous Artists in Acrylic” will be held. Participants will be able to choose one of several reproductions of works by classic artists to create their own version of a masterpiece on canvas. They will paint on tabletop easels under the guidance of a professional artist. All materials will be provided by the organizers, and the finished painting can be taken home.

    The program will continue on Saturday, July 5, at 16:00 with a lesson dedicated to Russian folk painting. Participants will create compositions in the style of “Gorodets” or “Northern Dvina” on wooden boards. The teacher will tell about the history of the crafts, their symbolism and traditional colors. As a result, each guest will receive not only new knowledge, but also their own unique work.

    On Sunday, July 6, from 15:00 to 16:00 and on Monday, July 7, from 13:00 to 14:00, a mosaic studio will be open on the boulevard. Guests will create a panel from smalt using the direct set technique. First, participants will come up with and draw a sketch of the future work, and then select and fix the mosaic elements on the base. Such classes not only develop artistic thinking, but also introduce one of the oldest interior design techniques.

    Those wishing to try their hand at street art are invited to graffiti master classes, which will be held on Friday, July 11, from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM and Saturday, July 12, from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM. The classes will include two stages. First, participants will learn about the history and aesthetics of graffiti, and create sketches. Then, under the supervision of a professional, they will try to implement their idea on a specially prepared wall. All participants will be provided with protective masks and gloves.

    Geometric paintings and 3D appliques on Strastnoy Boulevard

    Passionate Boulevard has also turned into a cozy art space. There is an art workshop here, where anyone can try their hand at decorative and applied art – learn to draw and create panels in different styles.

    A rich program awaits guests. Thus, on July 3, 8, 9 and 10 from 15:00 to 15:45, a master class “Gems” will be held. Participants will create a three-dimensional picture using the 3D applique technique. They will have to use bright materials, as well as develop fine motor skills and compositional thinking.

    On July 4 and 11 from 15:00 to 15:45 there will be a class “Summer Day”Under the guidance of mentors, visitors will work on a landscape using the dot mosaic technique.

    On July 5 from 14:00 to 14:45 it will be the turn of the master class “Bright colors”Participants will paint pictures in a geometric style – with clear shapes and rich colors.

    On July 12 from 17:00 to 17:45 there will be a lesson called “Blooming Garden”. Guests will make an interior panel with summer motifs using the pebble mosaic technique. They will work with natural materials.

    All materials will be provided by the organizers; participation in the classes is free.

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

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

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: Scientists study the biodiversity of water bodies in the Losiny Ostrov National Park

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Large-scale field research continues in the Moscow part of the Losiny Ostrov National Park. Specialists are studying the ecological and recreational state of the Kazenny Pond.

    “Regular environmental research is the basis for competent management of the capital’s natural areas. The city actively supports scientific projects that help track changes in the state of flora and fauna under the influence of humans and climate. This allows us to make effective decisions – not for the short term, but taking into account the future of Moscow as a green, environmentally friendly city,” said Yulia Urozhaeva, head of the capital’s

    Department of Nature Management and Environmental Protection.

    Last year, a unique large-scale ecological and biological survey was conducted in Losiny Ostrov Park, in which more than 80 specialists from five scientific institutes took part. They identified more than 1,500 species of animals and plants, of which over 200 are rare and protected. Based on the survey results, experts gave recommendations for supporting vulnerable animal species. In addition, programs for their conservation and restoration were developed.

    This year, comprehensive studies of the park’s nature continue. In April, a group of scientists, including specialists from the A.N. Severtsov Institute of Ecology and Evolution of the Russian Academy of Sciences, began studying the biodiversity of Losiny Ostrov’s water bodies. Experts took samples of phyto- and zooplankton from Babaevsky Pond, as well as benthic organisms living in the soil. Then hydrobiologists took samples of water and bottom sediments in Kazenny Pond, as well as samples of the upper layer of bottom sediments. This is done in order to assess the current ecological and recreational state of the water bodies. It can change under the influence of external factors, which often has a negative impact on biodiversity, since the life cycle of many organisms is directly related to water.

    From frog to newt: what amphibians live in Moscow’s water bodies

    At the next stage, scientists in the laboratory analyze the species composition of two groups of organisms: testate amoebae (benthic organisms living on the bottom) and cladocerans (representatives of plankton). These microorganisms are bioindicators, the presence of which and the structure of their populations can be used to judge the degree of pollution of a reservoir.

    Testate amoebae are particularly sensitive to heavy metals, petroleum products and road salt. Cladocerans respond to the general organic load.

    If plankton shows that the water is relatively clean, and bottom organisms indicate the opposite, this indicates the need for careful and targeted work with bottom sediments, hydrobiologists note.

    Experts also collect cores—deep samples of silt—that allow them to study how the state of the reservoir has changed over the past decades.

    According to scientists, the Kazennyi pond has a high degree of overgrowth, accumulation of organic matter and oxygen deficiency in winter. Such conditions can cause damage to aquatic fauna, so it is necessary to conduct regular monitoring of the reservoir’s condition.

    Based on the data obtained, specialists develop recommendations for improving the condition of the pond. One possible measure is to increase the flow rate, for example by supplying additional volumes of clean water or cleaning the drainage channels. This will reduce the concentration of organic matter and restore the ecosystem. It is also important that the pond is not cleaned once. Without a comprehensive approach and regular monitoring, the pond’s condition may deteriorate in a few years.

    “If you simply clean a reservoir, in 10 years it will be in the same condition again. It is important to improve the functioning of the entire ecosystem – so that aquatic organisms themselves process excess organic matter. This will ensure clean water, sustainable biodiversity and a favorable environment for city residents,” the experts noted.

    The data collected during field work will form the basis for long-term environmental monitoring and the development of solutions for the restoration and maintenance of the capital’s water bodies.

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

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: Information on 1,67 thousand city objects appeared on the Moscow Government’s open data portal

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The Moscow City Bureau of Technical Inventory (MosgorBTI) is involved in filling Moscow Government Open Data Portal. The institution published information about city blocks. This will allow organizations and Muscovites to receive up-to-date information about the boundaries and characteristics of city territories.

    “Since February 2025, specialists from MosgorBTI have been publishing a catalog of registration blocks on the Moscow government’s open data portal, which today includes information on 1.67 thousand objects. They are used to determine the addresses of real estate located outside of populated areas and not connected to streets. Such objects have the numbers of registration city blocks in the structure of the official address,” she said.

    Ekaterina Solovieva, Minister of the Moscow Government, Head of the Moscow Department of City Property.

    The data.mos.ru portal is a free digital platform that hosts key information about Moscow, its infrastructure, events, and much more. The service helps residents of the capital receive information about department reception schedules, traffic restrictions due to road works, social card replenishment points, and other useful information, including cartographic information.

    The resource can also be used to determine whether the name of the property will use the name of the locality or the number of the city block. In addition, you can find out about its location and connection with localities and municipalities. This data will help application developers integrate information about real estate objects into their own services through API tools.

    The data.mos.ru portal contains more than a thousand data sets and analytical reports, which are available for viewing in catalogs for both users and information systems through a special mechanism for automatic exchange of information – API.

    “You can use the catalog of registered city blocks on the open data portal: the information is posted in the section

    “Territorial division”. There you can also find a collection of materials onarchival elements of the planning structure, which were valid until January 1, 2025. MosgorBTI regularly updates the information on the portal from the Address Register of Moscow Real Estate Objects, so that up-to-date information on the addresses of Moscow real estate is always publicly available. This data set can be found in the section “Land and Property”“, said the general director of MosgorBTI Dmitry Tetushkin.

    The Moscow City Bureau of Technical Inventory provides a wide range of services to city residents – it carries out cadastral and geodetic work, property appraisal and acceptance of apartments. In addition, specialists prepare documents for the approval of redevelopment and the transfer of garden houses into residential ones. You can get detailed information and place an order on the website Mosgorbti.ru or at one of five customer centers.

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

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ1: Sustainable development of intangible cultural heritage

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         â€‹Following is a question by the Hon Stanley Ng and a reply by the Under Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Mr Raistlin Lau, in the Legislative Council today (July 2):
     
    Question:
     
         There are views that the first Hong Kong Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) Month held last month enabled members of the public and tourists to experience the vitality and charm of Hong Kong’s ICH, and that transmitting ICH skills and the economic benefits brought about by the related cultural and creative intellectual property rights (IP) are conducive to the sustainable development of Hong Kong’s ICH. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) of the number of participants or visitors to the various activities of the first Hong Kong ICH Month, and the proportion of travellers among them; whether an assessment has been conducted on the effectiveness of Hong Kong ICH Month;
     
    (2) as it has been reported that the Government will announce a system for designating Hong Kong ICH bearers this year, whether the system will cover designation for both categories of bearer and bearer organisation; whether a mechanism will be established to revoke the status of bearers, ensuring that ICH remains vibrant and relevant over time, as well as maintaining the vitality of the transmission system and the enthusiasm of bearers; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; and
     
    (3) as it is learnt that the rapid development of IP of ICH in the Mainland has generated considerable economic benefits, of the mechanism put in place by the Government to regularly follow up on, incubate, support, protect and compile statistics on cultural and creative IP projects derived from Hong Kong’s ICH, so that they can sustainably create cultural value and economic benefits?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
         Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) is an essential part of the fine traditional Chinese culture, and a lively witness to the continuous transmission of Chinese culture. The Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau (CSTB) and the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) are committed to safeguarding, transmitting and promoting the ICH of Hong Kong, while actively supporting the national policies on furthering the safeguarding of ICH and implementing enhanced measures. Targeting ICH items across various domains, different aspects of work such as identification, documentation, research, preservation, promotion and transmission of ICH are strengthened to enhance the public’s understanding of ICH and engage the community in safeguarding ICH. The above work includes the ICH Funding Scheme of the LCSD, which supports eligible local organisations and individuals in implementing meaningful local ICH projects. In addition, the LCSD released in December 2024 the updated Representative List of the ICH of Hong Kong (Representative List), with an increase in its number of items from 20 to 24, and the updated ICH Inventory of Hong Kong, with an increase in its number of items from 480 to 507.
          
         The 2024 Policy Address proposed two measures to promote the safeguarding and transmission of ICH, whereby the LCSD will develop a mechanism and criteria in 2025 for recognising the bearers of the items on the Representative List, as well as organise the Hong Kong ICH Month in June every year.
          
         In response to the Hon Stanley Ng’s three-part question, my replies are as follows:
     
    (1) The inaugural Hong Kong ICH Month was successfully held from May 31 to July 1, 2025. Activities include over 80 ICH performances, 60 interactive experiential booths on ICH and 24 field trips under “ICH Highlight Tours”, covering more than 100 ICH items. By invitation of the LCSD, over 20 community organisations participated in organising activities during the Hong Kong ICH Month so as to expand the coverage of the event and extend its reach in the community. 
     
         With the attendance of the activities of the inaugural Hong Kong ICH Month already surpassing 85 000 as at June 21, 2025, the final total attendance of the event is estimated to be more than 100 000. Despite the unavailability of figures on the percentage of visitors, since the tourist-filled Piazza of the Hong Kong Cultural Centre in Tsim Sha Tsui was chosen as the venue of the opening ceremony and the ensuing ICH carnival of the inaugural Hong Kong ICH Month, and both activities fell on the Mainland’s long weekend holiday in celebration of the Tuen Ng Festival, many visitors were attracted to the ICH carnival. Among others, around one-third of the “ICH Highlight Tours” quotas were given to visitors, and their feedback was very positive. The LCSD will continue to make efforts in this area in the future to enhance the integration of culture and tourism. A breakdown of the attendance of the Hong Kong ICH Month 2025 by activity is set out at Annex.
          
         The inaugural Hong Kong ICH Month successfully enriched the public’s understanding of the ICH items of both Hong Kong and the Mainland. Through the collaboration between the Government and community organisations, as well as the active participation of local and Mainland ICH organisations and practitioners, the public and visitors were provided with an experience of “ICH Around Town”.

    (2) The LCSD has studied the national guidelines for the recognition and management of ICH bearers. It has also completed its collection of and gained insight into relevant information on the planning, formulation and implementation of the mechanism for recognising ICH bearers or bearer organisations, the management system and the cancellation mechanism for the recognised ICH bearers or bearer organisations, etc in Guangdong Province, Macao and other neighbouring regions. Currently, the national guidelines include a cancellation mechanism, while Guangdong and Macao also have their own relevant cancellation mechanisms. The LCSD will take into account the aforementioned information and consider the current transmission of Hong Kong’s ICH to prepare a proposal that is in accord with the actual situation of Hong Kong. The proposal will cover the requirements for applicants for the status of ICH bearer or bearer organisation to follow, the mechanism and criteria for recognition, as well as a cancellation mechanism where applicable. The LCSD will consult the ICH Advisory Committee on the draft proposal to ensure that a set of stringent recognition mechanism and criteria suitable for Hong Kong is formulated to effectively recognise high-quality bearers or bearer organisations that are committed to transmitting ICH, thereby enhancing the protection and transmission of Hong Kong’s ICH. The mechanism and criteria are expected to be promulgated within this year.

    (3) As regards intellectual property based on ICH, the ICH Office has actively assisted cultural and creative industry brands in Hong Kong in launching creative cultural merchandise in recent years. For example, it has co-operated with a local fashion brand since 2024 to present Hong Kong’s ICH elements in a novel way to bring fashion lovers a series of new-style cheongsams that revitalise traditions, and clothing created with ICH elements. In addition to a publicity and promotional campaign launched in Hong Kong, fashion shows were organised in places outside of Hong Kong, such as London, Shanghai and Shenzhen, to showcase Hong Kong’s ICH. The ICH Office will continue to provide information on ICH for suitable cultural and creative industry brands to assist them in transforming ICH into value-‍added cultural and creative products through revitalisation.

         Furthermore, the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency under the CSTB, through the CreateSmart Initiative, provides funding support and drives to foster cross-sectoral collaboration between local cultural and creative industries and ICH bearers, promote Hong Kong’s ICH at cultural and creative exhibitions and events staged in Hong Kong, the Mainland and overseas, and support Hong Kong designers to create cultural and creative products themed on ICH. These collaborations promote the ICH of Hong Kong, as well as facilitate the development of cultural and creative sectors as industries. Examples include the “Palace Museum Collections x Hong Kong Intangible Cultural Heritage” Exhibition held during the Shenzhen Reading Month in November 2024 and the Hong Kong Reading Week in April 2025, the Hong Kong Pavilion themed “Strolling through Hong Kong: Intangible Cultural Heritage and Urban Memories” set up at Beijing International Book Fair in June 2025, and the Hong Kong’s ICH-themed new art toys created by Hong Kong original art toy designers to be showcased in the “Hong Kong Art Toy Story 2025@Kuala Lumpur” in November 2025.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ22: Development of “Zero Waste Bay Area”

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    LCQ22: Development of “Zero Waste Bay Area” 
    Question:
     
         It is learnt that the Government is exploring with other Mainland cities in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) to take forward the development of “Zero Waste Bay Area”, and that Guangdong and Hong Kong will tackle waste management issues through regional strategies and enhance regional recycling of recyclable materials in the GBA by leveraging each other’s competitive advantages and complementing strengths. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) of the specific work directions and strategies of the Special Panel for Building “Zero Waste Bay Area” established by the governments of Guangdong and Hong Kong in January this year, and the latest progress of its work;
     
    (2) given the opportunities arising from the “Zero Waste Bay Area”, how will the Government capitalise on Hong Kong’s advantage of connecting the country with the world to facilitate the development of green industries and a circular economy in the GBA, and whether it has assessed the difficulties and challenges that may arise in the process; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; and
     
    (3) whether the HKSAR Government has started to explore the arrangements for the cross-boundary transportation of waste to other Mainland cities in the GBA, such as the mode of transport (i.e. sea or land) and daily handling capacity; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,

    (1) According to the “Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Ecological Environmental Protection Plan” promulgated by the Ministry of Ecology and Environment of the People’s Republic of China, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government continuously works with the Mainland cities of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) to develop a “Zero Waste Bay Area” and explore regional co-operation models for achieving “Zero Waste City”. The Special Panel for Building “Zero Waste Bay Area” (the Special Panel) was established by Guangdong and Hong Kong at the Hong Kong-Guangdong Joint Working Group on Environmental Protection and Combating Climate Change meeting held in January this year, serving as a standing mechanism for advancing solid waste management and resources circulation co-operation between the two places, thereby strengthening policy co-ordination, technical exchanges and project collaboration, as well as elevating the capability in jointly handling solid waste.
     
         The first meeting of the Special Panel, held on March 27 this year, was co-chaired by the Environmental Protection Department of the HKSAR Government and the Department of Ecology and Environment of Guangdong Province. It mainly focused on exploring strategies leveraging on the complementary advantages of the region, to promote resources circulation of recyclable materials in the GBA and foster collaborative development of green industries and related facilities through deepening the collaboration by a joint “project-based” model. At present, the Special Panel has commenced initial discussions on topics such as regional co-operation in resources circulation and waste management policy, and is actively discussing how to promote the co-ordination of regulations and market integration between the two places.
     
    (2) and (3) The co-operation direction with the Mainland cities of the GBA is to promote resources circulation through the joint development of “Zero Waste City”, instead of transferring the municipal solid waste (MSW) to the Mainland cities of the GBA for treatment.
     
         Under the co-operation framework of the Special Panel, Hong Kong will fully capitalise on our distinctive advantage of having strong support of the Motherland and being closely connected to the world to further deepen the co-operation with other Mainland cities of the GBA in areas such as developing a “Zero Waste City” and promoting resources circulation. Hong Kong will introduce advanced recycling technologies and large-scale industrial expertise from the Mainland on one hand; and integrate its international market environment with its mature environmental management system to jointly explore the development pathway of a regional circular economy on the other. For example, the paper pulping facility and the retired electric vehicle (EV) battery recycling facility currently under construction in EcoPark, Tuen Mun, both incorporate mature Mainland technologies to process local waste paper and retired EV batteries. This not only strengthens Hong Kong’s role in the regional green industry chain, but also fosters collaborative development of green technologies and mutually beneficial co-operation in the environmental industry of the GBA.
     
         As for the local treatment of MSW in Hong Kong, the HKSAR Government is pressing ahead with the development of a network of advanced and highly efficient modern waste-to-energy facilities. The first modern incineration facility for treating MSW currently under construction near Shek Kwu Chau, I∙PARK1, will commence operation within this year. In addition, the HKSAR Government is pushing forward the development of I∙PARK2 at full steam. The open tender for the project was invited in last December and will close on July 18 this year. We will seek funding from the Legislative Council for the project in a timely manner.
    Issued at HKT 12:25

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: A look at Belconnen school upgrades

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Hawker Primary School’s newly built ramp winds through the school’s garden.

    In brief:

    • There is a lot of work happening at public schools in Belconnen.
    • This includes building a brand-new school, school upgrades and an oval refresh project.
    • This story gives an overview of this work.

    There’s a lot happening at public schools in the Belconnen region.

    From facilities upgrades to a brand-new school, we look at some of the work that’s:

    • been recently completed
    • currently taking place
    • planned.

    This work will ensure every child has access to great, accessible, sustainable facilities and infrastructure that support high-quality education in the ACT.

    Progress on Strathnairn School

    Construction is well underway on what will be the ACT’s 93rd public school.

    The new Strathnairn School will be co-located with an early childhood education and care (ECEC) service.

    It will cater for:

    • 780 students from preschool to year 6
    • 130 ECEC places.

    The school’s foundation principal, Nicole Nicholson, and other executive staff have been announced.

    When will the school open?

    Strathnairn School will open in stages.

    • It will open for students in preschool to year 2 at the start of 2026.
    • It is expected students from all year levels will be able to attend in 2027.

    This will offer families in the Ginninderry region high-quality public education close to home.

    Who can enrol?

    The planned School Priority Enrolment Area (PEA) for the new school includes:

    • Strathnairn
    • Macnamara
    • Ginninderry Stage 3
    • a portion of new development in Holt, west of the golf course bounded by Fullston Way and Lionel Rose Street.

    Enrol your child at Strathnairn School

    Find out more about the school on the Built for CBR website

    The Strathnairn School site in May 2025

    Have your say on a refreshed Fraser oval

    The dryland oval beside Fraser Primary school is getting a refresh. This will make it more useful for students as a learning and play space.

    The community can use it too. Outside school hours, sporting groups and locals can head there for exercise, sports and recreation.

    Canberrans are now invited to share ideas on how best to refresh this popular space. Children and young people are encouraged to get involved.

    How to share your views

    Visit the YourSay Conversations website to take a survey and/or mark your ideas on an online map.

    You can do this until Wednesday, 13 August.

    The ACT Government has sought early ideas from staff and students at Fraser Primary School. Traditional Owners have also shared feedback on what is important to them in this new space.

    Your feedback will help shape a concept design for the refreshed oval. This will be shared through the YourSay platform.

    You will then have further opportunity to give feedback before the designs are finalised.

    Have your say now via the YourSay Conversations website.

    Fraser oval will be refreshed for both student and community use.

    Hawker Primary School upgrades

    Hawker Primary School students and staff are benefitting from recent upgrades.

    The school has welcomed new accessible car parking bays. There is also now a ramp leading to its entrance.

    The front office has had a makeover with:

    • a new two-door entrance
    • new furniture
    • LED lighting
    • upgrades to the sick bay and nearby toilet.

    The school now has a new printer facility room. Upgrades to the boardroom and principal’s office are also complete.

    This work has been completed as part of the ACT Government’s Asset Renewal Program.

    The Hawker Primary School front office has had a makeover.

    Upgrades ahead for Melba Copland Secondary School

    The 2025–26 ACT Budget includes support for the master planning, design and construction of priority upgrades at Melba Copland Secondary School.

    These will include an upgrade to the foyer at the College campus, and a plan for future works.

    Read more like this:

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: What are working with children checks? Why aren’t they keeping kids safe at daycare?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Rosemary Sheehan, Professor of Social Work, Monash University

    Catherine Falls Commercial/ Getty Images

    Disturbing allegations have emerged about a Melbourne childcare worker, who has been charged with more than 70 offences, including sexual assault and producing child abuse material.

    Health authorities have urged about 1,200 children to get screening for potential infection.

    The man who has been charged, Joshua Dale Brown, had a valid working with children check.

    What is a working with children check? And how can they be reformed to keep children safe in the wake of yet more claims of abuse in childcare centres?



    Read more:
    Parents of kids in daycare are terrified following Melbourne abuse allegations. What can they do?

    Working with children checks

    Working with children checks are done on a state-by-state basis, but every jurisdiction approaches it in much the same way.

    In Victoria, it involves a simple application and proof of identity. There is no cost if it is for a voluntary position (for example, coaching your child’s soccer team) and a small fee if you are doing it as paid work (for example, as an early childhood educator or school teacher).

    It will then look at:

    • your criminal record in all Australian states and territories, including any charges, regardless of the outcome

    • your professional conduct as determined by groups such as the state’s institute of teaching

    • whether you’re required to report under sex offender legislation.

    But does it work?

    Regulation of the working with children check system is poor. Once you get your card, it lasts five years. There are no interim measures to check whether an offence has emerged in the meantime. So people can be flying under the radar.

    There is also a high threshold for issues to come to the surface. It might be possible for someone to have complaints made against them, that don’t reach the level of charges laid. These would not necessarily show up in a police check.

    On Wednesday, federal Education Minister Jason Clare said governments were working to improve information sharing between states “when there’s changes to people’s criminal history”.

    He also suggested there should be a national register of early childhood educators: “there’s a register for teachers; there’s not a register for educators in centres”.

    In 2015, the royal commission into child abuse did a specific report on working with children checks. It cautioned against an over-reliance on the checks. The report noted they can “provide a false sense of comfort to parents and communities”, who may believe people who have undergone the checks do not pose any risk to children.



    Read more:
    There’s a new ban on vaping in childcare centres, but what else do we need to keep kids safe?

    Employment history is important

    We need to have more checks in place beyond the police system.

    As the child abuse royal commission also noted in 2015, working with children checks are an “important tool” but only one component of making organisations safe for children.

    Employers must exercise due diligence in hiring staff, checking with previous employers, asking about staff performance, and ensuring proper staff supervision.

    According to the Victorian government, Brown worked at 20 childcare centres across Melbourne between January 2017 and May 2025. Some of this was casual work.

    This type of employment history – where someone has cycled through many employers – may be a red flag.

    If someone has such a fragmented employment history, it is difficult to check they can perform properly and appropriately in a role. It also goes against childcare wellbeing standards, which prioritise stability and continuity of care.

    How many staff are around?

    Supervision of staff is also important to keep children safe.

    There are set ratios for educators and children in childcare, depending on the ages of the children.

    But this may vary, depending on where children are in a centre. For example, does a child need particular help with toileting or have they had an accident or need first aid?

    Staff also need certain levels of qualifications to work in childcare centres. But there can be waivers if an individual is “actively working towards qualification” – so they may not have completed a formal childcare training certificate yet.

    We also need to make sure there is compulsory ongoing training for staff so they stay on top of best practice in terms of safety as well as education and care.

    The bigger question

    On Wednesday, Victorian Premier Jacinta Allen announced an urgent review into child safety.

    There are also growing calls for a national inquiry into childcare, including from National Children’s Commissioner Anne Hollonds.

    She told the ABC, “child safety and wellbeing is not a priority in this country”.

    Any inquiry would need to look at the systemic factors that shape the provision of childcare as well as what checks and balances need to be in place.

    Brown worked at centres run by two major private childcare chains: Affinity Education and G8 Education. Both say they followed the required security protocols.

    About 70% of daycare centres in Australia are run by for-profit services, which on average employ fewer qualified staff and are rated lower by the national quality system. We need to closely examine why an essential social service to vulnerable people can be provided for private profit.

    The Victorian government has set up a dedicated website and advice line for parents whose children may have been involved in the alleged offences.

    If this article has raised issues for you, or if you’re concerned about someone you know, you can call 1800 Respect on 1800 737 732, Lifeline on 131 114, Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800, or Bravehearts (counselling and support for survivors of child sexual abuse) on 1800 272 831.

    Rosemary Sheehan receives funding from the Australian Research Council. She is chair of Pathways Response Victoria, an organisation which receives complaints of abuse by officers of the Catholic Church.

    – ref. What are working with children checks? Why aren’t they keeping kids safe at daycare? – https://theconversation.com/what-are-working-with-children-checks-why-arent-they-keeping-kids-safe-at-daycare-260209

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Palestinian Occupied Territories – Five months of forced displacement and escalating humanitarian needs amid advancing annexation in the West Bank – MSF

    Source: Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF)

    2 July, Jerusalem – More than 40,000 people in the northern West Bank remain forcibly displaced, cut off from their homes and left with very limited access to basic services and healthcare five months after the launch of the Israeli military operation ‘Iron Wall’. 

    This large-scale military campaign has seen Israeli forces raid and violently empty well-established refugee camps in northern West Bank. Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) warns that people are facing deteriorating health and living conditions, as the Israeli forces are still causing widespread destruction, and occupying the three refugee camps of Jenin, Tulkarem and Nur Shams – preventing any return and barring access.

    “After five months, the military operation continues. The camps remain sealed off, with Israeli soldiers actively preventing anyone from entering. Families are still in limbo, and we’re worried that humanitarian needs will keep escalating,” says Simona Onidi, MSF project coordinator in Jenin and Tulkarem.

    To mark this grim milestone, MSF is releasing a new advocacy briefing note, Five Months Under Iron Wall, highlighting the human toll of prolonged displacement in the West Bank. The note draws on MSF’s field presence, operational data, and nearly 300 interviews conducted in mid-May across 17 locations where MSF works in northern West Bank, with forcibly displaced refugees from the three camps.

    Findings show that displacement-affected communities face growing instability and unmet needs such as access to healthcare and to regular food and water. Nearly half of the people spoken to have been forcibly displaced three or more times in four months, while nearly three out of four are unsure if they can stay where they currently are. Over a third report feeling unsafe where they currently reside. Mental health needs are also mounting, especially among women and children, as repeated displacement, uncertainty, and being violently displaced compound distress.

    “We live in a constant state of fear. Israeli forces frequently patrol the area near where I’m staying. My family and I keep our bags packed at all times, ready to flee if we’re displaced again.” – Displaced woman from Nur Shams Refugee Camp.

    MSF’s findings also reveal a disturbing pattern of violence and obstruction targeting displaced residents attempting to return to their homes in the camps, with over 100 incidents of indiscriminate violence reported. This includes shootings, assault, and detentions and is affecting people of all ages and genders. Some families found their homes burned, looted, or occupied; others were explicitly threatened and told never to come back. Returns are heavily restricted, with only limited time granted or access denied altogether.

    “When I came back to my home in the camp, it had been burned down — and my neighbour had been killed.” – Displaced man from Tulkarem Refugee Camp.

    One in three people could not reach a doctor when needed – mainly due to cost, distance, or lack of transport. Nearly half spoken to report inconsistent access to food and water, and 35 per cent of those with chronic illnesses are unable to get regular medication.

    In response to the unfolding crisis, MSF set up mobile medical teams which run in more than 40 public sites, displacement shelters in Jenin and Tulkarem and basic health care centres run by Ministry of Health facilities, offering basic health care services as well as mental health support and health promotion activities.

    The Iron Wall military operation is neither the beginning nor the end of the violence endured by Palestinians in the West Bank. This latest escalation comes on top of an already dire situation that has been steadily deteriorating, particularly since October 2023. As MSF’s February 2025 report Inflicting Harm and Denying Care shows, the West Bank has long been the site of repeated violations against civilians and medical organisations, and the current humanitarian crisis in the northern governorates cannot be understood in isolation from the broader context of coercive, violent measures and annexation.

    “What we’re seeing in the northern West Bank is not just a humanitarian emergency; it’s a man-made crisis, prolonged by design, and worsening by the day,” says Simona Onidi. “Humanitarian assistance is insufficient and inconsistent, organisations must step up their response to provide people with shelter, medical care, mental health support, and protection. We also call for an end to the Israeli military operations and lethal use of force, leading to death and injuries, and for displaced communities to be allowed to return safely and with dignity”.

     

    “Five Months Under Iron Wall: The Human Toll of Prolonged Displacement & Territorial Fragmentation in the West Bank” ( https://www.msf.org/sites/default/files/2025-07/202506_Briefing_Note_Iron_Wall_5_Months_After%201.pdf )

     

    MSF is an international, medical, humanitarian organisation that delivers medical care to people in need, regardless of their origin, religion, or political affiliation. MSF has been working in Haiti for over 30 years, offering general healthcare, trauma care, burn wound care, maternity care, and care for survivors of sexual violence. MSF Australia was established in 1995 and is one of 24 international MSF sections committed to delivering medical humanitarian assistance to people in crisis. In 2022, more than 120 project staff from Australia and New Zealand worked with MSF on assignment overseas. MSF delivers medical care based on need alone and operates independently of government, religion or economic influence and irrespective of race, religion or gender. For more information visit msf.org.au  

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Appointments – Gebrüder Weiss bids farewell to Management Board member Peter Kloiber

    Source: Gebrüder Weiss

    Peter Kloiber is stepping down after nearly three decades on the Gebrüder Weiss Management Board. At the same time Peter Schafleitner, former Director of Product Management Land Transport, is joining the Management Board.

    Lauterach, July 1, 2025. Changing of the guard in the Gebrüder Weiss executive: Peter Kloiber (64) is retiring after 28 years on the Management Board. He held responsibility for Parcel Services, Logistics, IT, Human Resources and Organizational Development, Marketing and Communications, as well as the subsidiaries Xvise (logistics consulting) and dicall (call center services).

    Born in Vorarlberg / Austria, Peter Kloiber launched his career at Gebrüder Weiss in 1990 when he took up a post in corporate and human resources development. He recognized the key role of internal training and development programs for long-term success, and initiated their establishment. 

    The company’s transformation into a modern, networked logistics group is also due in a large part to his dedication.
    “Peter Kloiber is a pioneer of our value-oriented corporate culture, which continues to shape our self-image and strategic direction to this day. We owe him a great deal,” said Wolfram Senger-Weiss, CEO of Gebrüder Weiss, paying tribute to Kloiber’s total of 35 years of service to the company.

    Peter Schafleitner (56), an experienced logistics expert, is moving up to the company’s top management tier. Born in Salzburg, he joined the organization in 1989, holding various positions in sales and land transport and managing two locations in Austria. From 2017 onwards, he was Director and Regional Manager for the Central Region, which includes Salzburg, Carinthia, Upper Austria, and the Czech Republic. Since 2024, he has been Head of Product Management for Land Transport. Schafleitner’s appointment to the Management Board reflects the group’s primary focus on continuity and the benefits of long-term experience and internal networking.

    As part of this personnel change, Gebrüder Weiss is also reorganizing the board’s portfolios. From July 1, 2025, the responsibilities will be distributed as follows:

    • Wolfram Senger-Weiss (CEO) will oversee digitalization, finance, corporate governance, real estate, and the Black Sea/CIS region.
    • Jürgen Bauer will take charge of Land Transport Europe, Customs, Purchasing, Logistics, and the subsidiary Xvise (logistics consulting).
    • Lothar Thoma will head the Air and Sea Freight and Overseas divisions as well as Human Resources and Organizational Development.
    • Peter Schafleitner will take over Product Management Land Transport, Sales, Marketing and Communications, while also being responsible for the parcel service (GWP) and the dicall call center.

    Further information on the Gebrüder Weiss management team can be found here: https://www.gw-world.com/company/about-us/business

    About Gebrüder Weiss

    Gebrüder Weiss Holding AG, based in Lauterach, Austria, is a globally operative full-service logistics provider with about 8,600 employees at 180 company-owned locations. The company generated revenues of 2.71 billion euros in 2024. Its portfolio encompasses transport and logistics solutions, digital services, and supply chain management. The twin strengths of digital and physical competence enable Gebrüder Weiss to respond swiftly and flexibly to customers’ needs. The family-run organization – with a history going back more than half a millennium – has implemented a wide variety of environmental, economic, and social initiatives. Today, it is also considered a pioneer in sustainable business practices. www.gw-world.com

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: UN report highlights urgent financing solutions to achieve the SDGs in Asia and the Pacific

    Source: United Nations – ESCAP

    A new report from the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) offers over 40 innovative and actionable strategies for countries in the region to close the development financing gap. This comes as financial and geopolitical pressures across the region threaten to further derail progress on poverty reduction, climate action and economic recovery.

    Developing countries globally now face an annual shortfall of between US$2.5 trillion and US$4 trillion to meet the Sustainable Development Goals. Without major improvements in the way development is financed, many countries in the region risk falling further behind.

    The sixth edition of ESCAP’s Financing for Development report points to longstanding weaknesses in public finance and private investment systems. Many governments in the region continue to face difficulties in raising domestic revenues at the scale needed. Tax structures remain inefficient, and opportunities to tap into wealth and real estate are often underused. At the same time, capital markets are underdeveloped, and private financing rarely reaches high-impact sectors such as clean energy, healthcare or affordable housing.

    “Nowhere is this challenge – and opportunity – more urgent than in Asia and the Pacific,” underscored Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana, United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of ESCAP. She added, “This is our chance to build a more resilient, equitable and sustainable economy for all. We aim to foster solutions that are regionally grounded, technically sound and financially viable. Unless Asia and the Pacific can lead boldly, the global transition will fall short of expectations.”

    Public debt distress has also become a growing concern. The report calls for more responsible borrowing, better transparency in how public funds are used, and stronger coordination among creditors to ensure fair and effective debt resolution.

    The report further recomm

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The railway passenger flow in the Yangtze Delta region in the first 6 months of 2025 amounted to 455 million person-times

    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

    SHANGHAI, July 2 (Xinhua) — The Yangtze River Delta region’s rail passenger traffic hit a record 455 million times in the first half of 2025, with an average daily passenger traffic of 2.51 million, up 4.6 percent year on year.

    According to the Shanghai branch of the state corporation China Railways (CR), the second quarter significantly surpassed the first quarter in terms of indicators, in particular, on May 1, a new record was set for daily passenger traffic – almost 4.27 million person-times.

    A sharp increase in the number of passengers was also observed during the Qingming (All Souls’ Day) and Duanwu (Dragon Boat Festival) holidays.

    During the eight days from April 29 to May 6, when the country’s railways were operating at an intensive rate due to the May Day holiday, the railway passenger flow in the Yangtze Delta region exceeded 30 million person-times, or nearly 3.8 million person-times per day, which was the maximum for this period. To meet demand in the first half of the year, 18,253 additional passenger trains were added to the train schedule.

    The branch expects that in July and August, when the summer holiday season begins in China and another surge in tourism and family travel will be observed, passenger traffic will amount to at least 190 million person-times. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Energy Sector – Unison brings kids’ electrical safety education online: Free for families everywhere

    Source: Unison Networks

    Local lines company, Unison Networks (Unison) is raising the bar for electrical safety education by launching its Digital Safe Sparks Programme to families across Hawke’s Bay, Taupō and Rotorua, making it easier than ever for children to learn how to stay safe around electricity.

    For over 20 years, Unison’s Safe Sparks Programme has been delivered in schools through a two-part, indoor and outdoor session. While these visits will continue across Unison’s electricity network regions, the company recognises it can only reach a limited number of classrooms each year. The new online version removes that barrier, offering any child, anywhere, anytime the chance to take part.

    The programme covers topics such as identifying electricity in the home, understanding how it is made, and developing practical safety skills. It also includes important information on Unison’s electrical equipment in the community, such as power poles, lines and boxes.

    Unison Group General Manager People, Safety and Culture, Rachel Masters highlighted the importance of extending the programme’s reach.

    “Keeping our communities and tamariki safe around electricity is at the heart of everything we do.

    “By taking Safe Sparks digital, we’re giving every whānau the opportunity to learn together, whether at home, at after school care, or during the school holidays. It’s about building a safer future, one child at a time,” Mrs Masters said.

    Designed for children aged 5 to 11, the interactive online experience features short, animated videos, real-life safety tips, and activities that help children understand how electricity works and how to stay safe, especially near Unison’s equipment like power poles, lines and boxes.

    Unison has delivered its In-person Safe Sparks Programme to thousands of students across its electricity network regions since 2003. The digital version, launched to schools in 2024, has now been extended to include families, after school care providers and holiday programmes.

    To celebrate the community rollout, Unison is offering spot prizes for those who complete the programme and submit the short form at the end. Three lucky participants will win $100 Prezzy Cards, with entries closing on 31 October 2025.

    “It’s a great school holiday activity, or something to do on a rainy weekend. The whole programme takes just 15 to 20 minutes, but the learning lasts a lifetime.

    “There’s no login required, it’s completely free, and families can download a personalised certificate at the end. It’s a fun and meaningful activity to do together,” Mrs Masters said.

    Unison encourages parents, caregivers, schools, holiday programmes and after school care providers to explore the resource and share it widely.

     

    Start the challenge today at: www.unison.co.nz/safe-sparks-digital.

    Notes:


    Unison Networks is New Zealand’s fifth largest electricity network, supplying over 119,000 customers across Hawke’s Bay, Taupō and Rotorua.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health Sector – General practice amazed at Government’s cash splurge on telehealth – Genaro

    Source: General Practice Owners Association (GenPro)

    The General Practice Owners Association is calling foul at the huge difference between government funding for screen-based telehealth compared to face-to-face visits to community doctors.

    “General practice is amazed at the extravagant payments to a few telehealth providers during these cash-strapped times. And we’re stunned that the government won’t fund anywhere near these amounts to support general practices to see the same patients,” says Dr Angus Chambers, Chair of GenPro.

    “The scale of per-patient funding indicates clear favouritism for telehealth providers. Questions must be asked about whether telehealth is good use of public money when general practices are funded at lower rates for a superior standard of patient service.

    “We’re asking health officials for the reasoning behind the funding difference in favour of screen-based appointments, which tend to be easier and quicker consultations, over a family doctor who examines patients more thoroughly.”

    Ironically a telehealth consultation often results in a recommendation to visit a general practitioner for a more thorough examination, Dr Chambers says.

    “We’re stunned that telehealth providers will receive:

    $65 for seeing after hours a 14-year-old whose caregiver has a community services card, while general practice receives $20.45.
    $65 for seeing after hours an adult with a community service card, while general practice will receive $15.33.
    $95 for seeing a 13-year-old whose caregiver has a community services card, while general practice receives $20.45.

    “While GenPro welcomed the recent increased funding for general practice, it’s important to emphasise that this boost was only for enrolled patients. This new telehealth service is for non-enrolled patients or those seeking care when their regular doctor cannot see them – which is a service many GPs also provide.

    “This is an important distinction as the huge advantage for telehealth will significantly undermine the sustainability of general practice.

    “Telehealth may be the only choice for remote rural areas where it is extremely hard to access a GP, or for those that are not enrolled in a practice, but it is risky to make it the first option for all.

    This Government’s $165 million investment in large corporations and primary health organisations, instead of front-line GP services, comes despite international evidence that telehealth is ineffective at solving  problems in the health system.

    “Evidence from the UK showed that telehealth did nothing to reduce emergency department attendance rates, time to cancer diagnosis, or to see a specialist. Telehealth might be convenient, but is it best for patients?

    “It seems that Health New Zealand believes that it is, as shown by this disproportionate funding,” Dr Chambers says.

    GenPro members are owners and providers of general practices and urgent care centres throughout Aotearoa New Zealand. For more information visit  www.genpro.org.nz
     
     

    Comparison of government funding of patients seeing screen-based telehealth providers versus face-to-face appointment at general practices
    Below is a comparison of the subsidies for either discipline to see a casual patient (not enrolled with the service provider). Noting that the Telehealth fees are capped.
     

    Age of patient                                     GP subsidy                                                T/health subsidy Difference 
    U6 BH CSC $35.78 U6 BH CSC $75.00 110%
    U6 AH CSC $35.78* U6 AH CSC $95.00 166%
    U6 BH No CSC $35.78 U6 BH No CSC $55.00 54%
    U6 AH No CSC $35.78* U6 AH No CSC $65.00 82%
    6-13 BH CSC $20.45 6-13 BH CSC $75.00 267%
    6-13 AH CSC $20.45* 6-13 AH CSC $95.00 365%
    6-13 BH No CSC $15.33 6-13 BH No CSC $55.00 259%
    6-13 AH No CSC $15.33* 6-13 AH No CSC $65.00 324%
    14-17 BH CSC $20.45 14-17 BH CSC $55.00 169%
    14-17 AH CSC $20.45 14-17 AH CSC $65.00 219%
    14-17 BH No CSC $15.33 14-17 BH No CSC $25.00 63%
    14-17 AH No CSC $15.33 14-17 AH No CSC $35.00 128%
    18+ BH CSC $15.33 18+ BH CSC $55.00 259%
    18+ AH CSC $15.33 18+ AH CSC $65.00 324%
    18+ BH No CSC $0.00 18+ BH No CSC $2.00 Infinity
    18+ AH No CSC $0.00 18+ AH No CSC $12.00 Infinity

    All amounts include GST
    BH = Business hours 0800-2200
    AH After hours 2200-0800
    CSC Community Services card
    * Additional after-hours subsidies available with regional variation

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Ready, steady, tax time!

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    We know running a small business is serious business and we want to make it as easy as possible for you to get your tax right, the first time. There are a few things you can do to prepare for the end of the financial year, whether you’re lodging yourself or using a tax professional.

    Get set up

    Online services for business is your central hub for managing tax and super online. To set up your access, you’ll need to:

    • download and set up your myID, the Australian Government’s Digital ID app
    • link your myID to your ABN in Relationship Authorisation Manager (RAM).

    Tip: if you’re a sole trader, you can use ATO online services through myGov to engage with us. For more secure and flexible access, we recommend signing in with myID.

    Declare everything

    Make sure you declare all your business income – even non-monetary payments like goods or services you’ve received in exchange for your work. It all counts.

    Understand losses

    Business losses and non-commercial losses aren’t the same thing. Knowing the difference can impact how you report and carry forward losses, so it’s worth getting your head around it to get your tax right.

    Keep track of private use

    If you’ve used business money for personal expenses, keep clear records. It’s important to separate business activities and expenses from personal ones to avoid headaches later.

    Nominate your tax agent

    Using a tax agent? Make sure you nominate them in Online services for business. They won’t be able to access your information or act on your behalf until you’ve authorised them.

    Deductions: remember the 3 golden rules

    1. The expense must have been for your business, and not for private use.
    2. If the expense is for a mix of business and private use, you can only claim the portion that is used for your business.
    3. You must have records or receipts to prove it.

    Cash vs accruals: know your method

    The income you receive from running your small business will be assessable for tax purposes. How you account for income affects what you report:

    • Cash basis: Report income when you receive the payment – even if the work was done earlier.
    • Accruals basis: Report income when you earn it – even if you haven’t been paid yet.

    Don’t miss out on deductions and concessions

    Now is a great time to check if you’re eligible for any deductions or concessions when lodging your income tax return. You might be able to take advantage of:

    These can make a real difference to your bottom line – so it’s worth checking what applies to your business.

    We have a range of resources, tools and services available to help you get it right this tax time, including the 2025 Tax Time toolkit for small business.

    Keep up to date

    We’ve set up tailored communication channels for small businesses. They will keep you updated on important information and changes.

    Read more articles in our Small business newsroom.

    Subscribe to our free to our monthly Small business email newsletterExternal Link.

    Get email notifications about new and updated information on our website. You can choose to receive updates that matter to you. Select the ‘Business and organisations’ category. This way, your subscription will get notifications for more Small business newsroom articles like this one.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI: MMP Capital Drives Significant Growth in Equipment Financing Services

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MMP Capital’s New Hampshire office has driven notable growth in diverse industries like printing, dental, and manufacturing. The company increased direct lending capabilities, achieving faster approvals and customized financing. Plans include expanding its New York facility and refining partnership strategies for optimal service.

    Photo Courtesy of MMP Capital

    FARMINGDALE, New York, July 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MMP Capital, a leading private lending company specializing in equipment financing and small business lending, has reported substantial growth this year. The expansion of additional satellite offices in New Hampshire and Massachusetts marks the company’s first offices outside its Long Island headquarters and has already delivered noteworthy results in diversifying the company’s portfolio beyond its traditional healthcare focus.

    The New Hampshire office has rapidly expanded MMP Capital’s presence in several key industries, including printing, dental, franchises, metal fabrication, construction, yellow iron, and manufacturing. This growth aligns with the company’s strategic vision to strengthen its position as a versatile equipment financing provider while maintaining its established leadership in the aesthetic medical healthcare sector.

    “Since opening our Portsmouth office in February, we’ve experienced exceptional growth in our non-healthcare financing portfolio. The office has been a haven for talented people who were looking for a dynamic environment to further their career, and have found success with MMP Capital,” said Jim Siederman, Executive Vice President of MMP Capital. “The New Hampshire team has exceeded our expectations, bringing on new customers across diverse industries and upholding our commitment to customer service excellence. This expansion represents geographic growth and a significant broadening of our market reach. We are getting bombarded with new resumes and have plans to expand the size of the office in 2026 to continue to feed the growth.”

    MMP Capital operates as a hybrid lender, lending directly from its capital resources and working through a network of syndication partners when appropriate. The company has recently increased its balance sheet lending capabilities, allowing for greater control over the lending process and enabling more customized financing solutions for clients.

    “One of our strategic priorities this year has been increasing the percentage of direct lending we provide,” explained President & CEO, John-Paul Smolenski. “This gives us more control over the entire customer experience, from approval application. With our expanded team in the Northeast, we can offer faster approvals, more flexible terms, and dedicated account executives who understand the industries they serve. We could not have done it without the support of good partners at Deutsche Bank and Brean Capital, who have been integral in our success.”

    The success of the New England offices comes at a time of significant overall growth for MMP Capital. The company recently announced record-setting performance in late 2024, with total production reaching $55 million in December originations alone. This momentum has continued into 2025, with originations growing at close to 40% YOY companywide.

    The company has also announced plans to expand its Long Island HQ in the third quarter of 2025, creating additional capacity for their growing sales and operations teams in a new 25,000 sq ft office in Melville, Long Island. This organic growth reflects MMP Capital’s continued commitment to scaling its services while maintaining personalized attention to clients.

    “The timing is perfect, as the macro economy is starting to take off after the last few years of turmoil. Small Business owners are extremely excited about what the future holds. As we continue to grow, we are becoming increasingly selective about our lending partnerships,” added Smolenski. “We’re moving away from syndication partners who don’t fully align with our commitment to customer service excellence. When we realized that 95% of customer complaints came from poor experiences from the post-sale assignment of two funding sources. Once we identified those two funding sources, it was a no brainer to sever relations with them. This strategic shift allows us to maintain consistent, high-quality service throughout the financing process, from application to final payment. Our high-end clients can go anywhere they want for financing, but are loyal to MMP Capital due to our convenience, and high levels of personal service.”

    About MMP Capital

    MMP Capital was founded in 2013 with a mission to be the gold standard in healthcare equipment finance in the U.S. Led by a management team with vast experience in sales, credit, and operations from several banks, leasing companies, and funding institutions, MMP Capital is uniquely equipped as a hybrid lender to lend directly or utilize a vast syndication outlet.

    The company’s financing options for equipment financing, leasing, and unsecured capital offer U.S. businesses the opportunity to invest in their future, update outdated technology, or offer new services to customers.

    Contact Information

    Jamie O’Connor
    Director of Marketing & Branding
    MMP Capital
    joconnor@mmpcapital.com
    https://mmpcapital.com/
    o: (516) 308‑6946 | m: (917) 902‑7595 | f: (516) 400‑2071

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b87b1caf-0f48-46e8-9905-f04f0c26e778

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ13: Admission of sports professionals

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    LCQ13: Admission of sports professionals 
    Question:
     
         It has been reported that in recent years, several international and Mainland sports stars have come to Hong Kong for development or settlement one after another through the Quality Migrant Admission Scheme (QMAS) or the Top Talent Pass Scheme (TTPS). There are views that Hong Kong possesses the advantage of attracting sports talent, and the Government should further assist sports professionals coming to Hong Kong for development, so as to promote the development of Hong Kong’s sports industry. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) of the number of overseas and Mainland sports professionals who have applied over the past five years for coming to Hong Kong for development through QMAS and TTPS respectively, and among them, the number of applications approved, together with a breakdown by the sports disciplines in which the professionals are involved; whether it has compiled statistics on the employment status of professionals in Hong Kong in the approved cases;
     
    (2) when sports professionals have come to Hong Kong through QMAS or TTPS, how the Hong Kong Talent Engage will follow up on their development and needs in Hong Kong (including support services and development strategies (if any) provided to such professionals);
     
    (3) as it has been reported that several world-renowned billiard players have become Hong Kong residents one after another through QMAS over the past year, whether the authorities will consider launching further initiatives to assist these billiard players in promoting billiards or developing their careers in billiards in Hong Kong, such as opening billiard saloons or training programs, so as to help Hong Kong become an “international billiard hub”; and
     
    (4) whether it will consider optimising QMAS or TTPS, or providing incentives (such as providing tax concessions to international sports stars or sports professionals coming to Hong Kong on a short-term or long-term basis), so as to attract more international sports talent to come to Hong Kong for development?

    Reply:
     
    President,
     
         To build Hong Kong into an international hub for high-calibre talent, the Government has been implementing various talent admission schemes with different positioning to proactively trawl for talent with diversified backgrounds to come to Hong Kong to build a quality talent pool for meeting Hong Kong’s development needs.
     
         Among them, the Achievement-based Points Test (APT) under the Quality Migrant Admission Scheme (QMAS) aims to attract individuals with exceptional talents or skills, as well as outstanding achievements, to come to Hong Kong for settlement. To be eligible for APT, the applicant must have received an award of exceptional achievement (e.g. Olympic medal, Nobel prize, national/international award) or can show that his/her work has been acknowledged by his/her peers or have contributed significantly to the development of his/her field (e.g. lifetime achievement award from industry). Successful applicants will normally be granted a stay of eight years upon first entry. In the past, the majority of international and Mainland sports celebrities who had won awards in major sports events and had come to Hong Kong for development were admitted through the above channel.
     
         Our reply to the Member’s questions, in consultation with the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau and the Immigration Department (ImmD), is as follows:
     
    (1) In the past five years (from 2020 to 2024), among the approved cases that have successfully passed the selection exercise under the QMAS, a total of 42 retired or serving athletes have been approved to come to Hong Kong under the APT, including Olympic medalists, Asian Games medalists, and winners of other international sports events.
     
         As the Top Talent Pass Scheme (TTPS) aims to attract individuals with high income or full-time bachelor’s degree from top universities/institutions around the world, the ImmD does not have the number of applications from retired/serving athletes.
     
         Persons admitted to Hong Kong under the QMAS or the TTPS are not required to have secured offers of employment before coming to Hong Kong. During the validity period of the first visa, the talent are not required to inform the ImmD when they are employed or have established/joined in business in Hong Kong. When applying for extension of stay, successful applicants under the TTPS are required to provide the ImmD with concrete supporting information and documents to prove that they have been employed or have established/joined in business in Hong Kong so that an extension of stay can be granted. The ImmD does not maintain statistics on the employment situation of successful applicants under the above two schemes when they first arrived in Hong Kong, as well as other statistical breakdowns mentioned in the question.
     
    (2) Since its establishment on October 30, 2023, Hong Kong Talent Engage (HKTE) has been providing comprehensive one-stop support to talent coming to / staying in Hong Kong under the various talent admission schemes (including the TTPS and the QMAS) through both online and offline means. Apart from providing comprehensive information on living and working in Hong Kong as well as handling enquiries from outside talent through its online platform (www.hkengage.gov.hk 
         Earlier on, many internationally renowned sports professionals (such as Judd Trump, the world’s number one snooker player, and Stephon Marbury, former National Basketball Association (NBA) player) have settled in Hong Kong. HKTE has invited them to participate in promotional activities to give first-hand sharing of their reasons for coming to Hong Kong, thereby promoting Hong Kong’s unique strengths and development opportunities to attract more global talent with diverse backgrounds to pursue development in Hong Kong.
     
    (3) Several internationally renowned snooker players have settled in Hong Kong, drawing public attention and interest for the sport. The Government will actively promote the development of local billiard sports, maintain connections with top snooker players pursuing development in Hong Kong, and provide appropriate support when needed to foster the development of billiard sports in Hong Kong together.
     
         The Government is committed to sports development through the five policy objectives of promoting sports in the community, supporting elite sports, maintaining Hong Kong as a centre for major international sports events, enhancing professionalism, and developing sports as an industry. For the promotion of community sports, the Government organises various types of recreation and sports activities and encourages public participation to cultivate a strong sporting culture in the community, helping them develop a healthy lifestyle.
     
         The Government will continue to devote resources to expand the audience base of sports enthusiasts (including snooker fans) and support the organisation of major sports events through the “M” Mark System. The Major Sports Events Committee awarded the “M” Mark status to the World Snooker Grand Prix 2025 in March this year. It was the first time for the event to be held outside the United Kingdom. In addition to promoting the development of billiard sports in Hong Kong, the event also underlines Hong Kong’s status as the centre for major international sports events.Issued at HKT 11:22

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Distrust in AI is on the rise – but along with healthy scepticism comes the risk of harm

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Simon Coghlan, Senior Lecturer in Digital Ethics, Deputy Director Centre for AI and Digital Ethics, School of Computing and Information Systems, The University of Melbourne

    PlayStation/StaminaZero/YouTube

    Some video game players recently criticised the cover art on a new video game for being generated with artificial intelligence (AI). Yet the cover art for Little Droid, which also featured in the game’s launch trailer on YouTube, was not concocted by AI. It was, the developers claim, carefully designed by a human artist.

    Surprised by the attacks on “AI slop”, the studio Stamina Zero posted a video showing earlier versions of the artist’s handiwork. But while some accepted this evidence, others remained sceptical.

    In addition, several players felt that even if the Little Droid cover art was human made, it nonetheless resembled AI-generated work.

    However, some art is deliberately designed to have the futuristic glossy appearance associated with image generators like Midjourney, DALL-E, and Stable Diffusion.

    Stamina Zero published a video showing the steps the artist took to create the cover art.

    It’s becoming increasingly easy for images, videos or audio made with AI to be deceptively passed off as authentic or human made. The twist in cases like Little Droid is that what is human or “real” may be incorrectly perceived as machine generated – resulting in misplaced backlash.

    Such cases highlight the increasing problem of the balance of trust and distrust in the generative AI era. In this new world, both cynicism and gullibility about what we encounter online are potential problems – and can lead to harm.

    Wrongful accusations

    This issue extends well beyond gaming. There are growing criticisms of AI being used to generate and publish music on platforms like Spotify.

    Yet as a result, some indie music artists have been wrongfully accused of generating AI music, resulting in damage to their burgeoning careers as musicians.

    In 2023, an Australian photographer was wrongly disqualified from a photo contest due to the erroneous judgement her entry was produced by artificial intelligence.

    Writers, including students submitting essays, can also be falsely accused of sneakily using AI. Currently available AI detection tools are far from foolproof – and some argue they may never be entirely reliable.

    Recent discussions have drawn attention to common characteristics of AI writing, including the em dash – which, as authors, we often employ ourselves.

    Given that text from systems like ChatGPT has characteristic features, writers face a difficult decision: should they continue writing in their own style and risk being accused of using AI, or should they try to write differently?



    Read more:
    Google’s SynthID is the latest tool for catching AI-made content. What is AI ‘watermarking’ and does it work?

    The delicate balance of trust and distrust

    Graphic designers, voice actors and many others are rightly worried about AI replacing them. They are also understandably concerned about tech companies using their labour to train AI models without consent, credit or compensation.

    There are further ethical concerns that AI-generated images threaten Indigenous inclusion by erasing cultural nuances and challenging Indigenous cultural and intellectual property rights.

    At the same time, the cases above illustrate the risks of rejecting authentic human effort and creativity due to a false belief it is AI. This too can be unfair. People wrongly accused of using AI can suffer emotional, financial and reputational harm.

    On the one hand, being fooled that AI content is authentic is a problem. Consider deepfakes, bogus videos and false images of politicians or celebrities. AI content purporting to be real can be linked to scams and dangerous misinformation.

    On the other hand, mistakenly distrusting authentic content is also a problem. For example, rejecting the authenticity of a video of war crimes or hate speech by politicians – based on the mistaken or deliberate belief that the content was AI generated – can lead to great harm and injustice.

    Unfortunately, the growth of dubious content allows unscrupulous individuals to claim that video, audio or images exposing real wrongdoing are fake.

    As distrust increases, democracy and social cohesion may begin to fray. Given the potential consequences, we must be wary of excessive scepticism about the origin or provenance of online content.

    A path forward

    AI is a cultural and social technology. It mediates and shapes our relationships with one another, and has potentially transformational effects on how we learn and share information.

    The fact that AI is challenging our trust relationships with companies, content and each other is not surprising. And people are not always to blame when they are fooled by AI-manufactured material. Such outputs are increasingly realistic.

    Furthermore, the responsibility to avoid deception should not fall entirely on internet users and the public. Digital platforms, AI developers, tech companies and producers of AI material should be held accountable through regulation and transparency requirements around AI use.

    Even so, internet users will still need to adapt. The need to exercise a balanced and fair sense of scepticism toward online material is becoming more urgent.

    This means adopting the right level of trust and distrust in digital environments.

    The philosopher Aristotle spoke of practical wisdom. Through experience, education and practice, a practically wise person develops skills to judge well in life. Because they tend to avoid poor judgement, including excessive scepticism and naivete, the practically wise person is better able to flourish and do well by others.

    We need to hold tech companies and platforms to account for harm and deception caused by AI. We also need to educate ourselves, our communities, and the next generation to judge well and develop some practical wisdom in a world awash with AI content.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Distrust in AI is on the rise – but along with healthy scepticism comes the risk of harm – https://theconversation.com/distrust-in-ai-is-on-the-rise-but-along-with-healthy-scepticism-comes-the-risk-of-harm-260189

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI China: Unmanned farming paves way for China’s smart, sustainable agriculture future

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

    ZHENGZHOU, July 2 — Beneath the blazing midday sun in Zhangzhuangli Village, Qingfeng County, in central China’s Henan Province, an intelligent patrol drone soared into the sky, tracing graceful arcs against the clear blue backdrop.

    Below, driverless harvesters swept through golden wheat fields with surgical precision, funneling grain into waiting trucks, while nearby sensors activated smart irrigation systems to quench the soil’s thirst drop by drop.

    These scenes come from the first wheat harvest at Henan’s inaugural fully unmanned wheat-corn rotation farm, offering a glimpse into the future of agriculture in China.

    Designed by scientists at Henan Agricultural University as part of the “sci-tech backyard program,” this farm covering 3,500 mu, or about 233 hectares, in Qingfeng has turned a once-distant dream into reality by achieving fully unmanned plowing, planting, management and harvesting.

    “For generations, harvest meant the whole family sweating in the fields,” said Zhou Jianshi, head of the local agricultural machinery cooperative, as an autonomous harvester rumbled past. “Now these ‘iron workhorses’ do it all on their own. It’s simply amazing.”

    This summer, the farm deployed an army of intelligent machines — from driverless harvesters and tractors to air-suction seeders, precision irrigation systems and scouting drones — all operated through China’s domestically developed BeiDou navigation satellites.

    According to Zhou, the shift has brought dramatic efficiency gains. “With the autonomous system, we have been able to reduce harvesting time from seven days to four,” he said, adding that labor for water and fertilizer management dropped by 80 percent, while overall human costs fell by 40 percent.

    “But efficiency jumped by 30 percent compared to last year’s traditional methods,” he noted.

    Behind this transformation lies integrated automation, with robotic tillers preparing the soil, smart planters detecting missed seeds, drones monitoring crop health and pests, and AI coordinating the entire harvest.

    In the farm’s mission control room, giant screens flicker with real-time data on soil moisture, seedling density and pest alerts, painting a digital portrait of the fields.

    “Our drone patrol system collects field data at 10 points every 30 minutes between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. daily,” said Wang Qiang, director of the Qingfeng sci-tech backyard program and an associate professor at Henan Agricultural University.

    “Predictive models translate the data into growth patterns, yield forecasts, and precise water needs,” Wang added.

    The smart irrigation system divides the fields into six zones, watering each according to the specific needs of the crops.

    Zhou said that irrigation labor fell 90 percent, with work that once needed 10 people now done by one using a smartphone, while precision fertilizer cut chemical use by 20 percent and boosted absorption efficiency by 30 percent.

    The results are inspiring, said Wang, noting that the smart farm’s debut report showed an impressive 20 percent increase in wheat yield compared to nearby conventional fields.

    “The core is matching water and fertilizer to the crop’s exact needs,” explained Ye Youliang, founder of the “sci-tech backyard program” and a professor at Henan Agricultural University.

    “Integrated water-fertilization systems allow us to deliver nutrients precisely when and where the plants need them, resulting in less input, higher quality, and truly sustainable farming,” he added.

    Standing amid the vibrant fields, Wang envisions a far-reaching transformation on the horizon.

    “Qingfeng offers a replicable model for China’s agricultural modernization,” he said. “Next, we’ll refine full-process unmanned tech, cut costs further, and amplify these efficiency gains.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Ningbo-Zhoushan Port shows major trade rebound

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

    Despite recent volatility in global trade policy, especially the swift changes in US-China tariff regulations since April, Ningbo-Zhoushan Port — the world’s third-largest in terms of container throughput volume in 2024 — has demonstrated remarkable resilience.

    By early June, container throughput volume to the United States had returned to pre-fluctuation levels, said port officials.

    Located on China’s eastern seaboard, Ningbo-Zhoushan Port serves as a vital artery in global logistics. With over 300 container shipping routes connecting to more than 600 ports, across 200 countries and regions, the port handles nearly 300 vessel movements daily. It has become a critical hub in supporting the dual circulation of domestic and international trade.

    In the face of external pressure, the port managed to expand its container throughput volume. From January to April, the port handled 13.568 million twenty-foot equivalent units, marking a 9.9 percent year-on-year increase, said Teng Yahui, deputy general manager of Ningbo Zhoushan Port Co Ltd.

    Notably, full-container exports rose more than 10 percent, while volumes to emerging markets in Southeast Asia, South America and Africa surged over 20 percent, laying a robust foundation for sustained growth.

    From January to May, total container throughput volume exceeded 17 million TEUs — a year-on-year increase of more than 9 percent. Teng confirmed that US-bound container volumes had normalized by early June, reflecting a rebound in trans-Pacific trade following the May 12 joint announcement issued after China-US trade talks in Geneva.

    To meet growing market demand and improve global connectivity, Ningbo-Zhoushan Port has launched a series of new shipping routes in recent months. These routes not only accommodate increased outbound cargo, but also provide exporters with faster, more diversified transport options, further consolidating the port’s global hub status.

    “Ningbo-Zhoushan Port has capitalized on the reorganization of global shipping alliances, strengthening cooperation with shipping lines and optimizing our route network,” said Zhu Miao, general manager of Zhejiang Provincial Seaport Investment & Operation Group.

    Zhu said: “We now operate 307 routes, including 255 international ones and 23 express shipping lines. Our port connectivity index has surpassed Singapore’s, ranking second globally.”

    During periods of reduced US-bound shipments, the port took proactive measures to stabilize services. “We worked closely with carriers to secure capacity and stabilize schedules, ensuring minimal disruptions. At the same time, we collaborated to explore new cargo sources and routes, reinforcing our role as a pivotal gateway,” Teng said.

    Ningbo-Zhoushan Port continues to enhance service quality by deploying tailored solutions. Its dedicated “logistics concierge” team designs optimized transportation plans for clients, with a strong focus on high-growth regions such as South America, the Middle East and Europe. In parallel, the port has accelerated the implementation of facilitation measures to improve operational efficiency. These include reducing vessel waiting times and streamlining Customs clearance — efforts that have significantly enhanced port productivity and competitiveness.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Beijing-Shenyang high-speed train boosts speed to 350 kph

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

    Editor’s Note: China Railway increased the operating speed of its G951 high-speed train from Beijing to Shenyang, northeast China’s Liaoning province, to 350 kph on July 1, the start of the country’s annual summer railway schedule.

    The increased speed will shorten the trip to less than two and a half hours, about 15 minutes faster than the previous quickest trains on the route. The Beijing-Shenyang route, part of the Beijing-Harbin High-speed Railway, is now the third 350-kph high-speed line operated by China Railway Beijing Group, following the Beijing-Tianjin Intercity Railway and the Beijing-Shanghai High-speed Railway.

    An electronic poster at Beijing Chaoyang Railway Station marks the Beijing-Shenyang High-speed Railway raising its operating speed to 350 kph, July 1, 2025. [Photo by Chen Boyuan/China.org.cn]

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    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: ‘Jurassic World Rebirth’ cast roars into China for Shanghai premiere

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

    “Jurassic World Rebirth,” the latest installment in the dinosaur blockbuster franchise, is set to charge into Chinese theaters on July 2, with the director and cast generating excitement among fans at the film’s Shanghai premiere on June 29.

    (From left to right) Actors Rupert Friend, Scarlett Johansson and Jonathan Bailey stand with director Gareth Edwards as they wave to fans at the China premiere of “Jurassic World Rebirth” in Shanghai, June 29, 2025. [Photo courtesy of Universal Pictures]

    Three years after the “Jurassic World” trilogy ended, the “Jurassic” series takes an inventive turn with a new film directed by Gareth Edwards from a script by original “Jurassic Park” (1993) screenwriter David Koepp and starring Scarlett Johansson, Jonathan Bailey and Mahershala Ali.

    The story follows an extraction team that ventures to a dangerous island research facility from “Jurassic Park,” now inhabited by deadly dinosaurs. Their mission involves collecting DNA samples from three colossal prehistoric species on land, sea and air for a medical breakthrough.

    Director Edwards called making the film “a dream come true” at the premiere event packed with screaming fans. He appeared alongside Johansson, Bailey and Rupert Friend during the film’s China promotional tour. 

    “I think it is every director’s dream and also every director’s nightmare,” he said.

    Edwards grew up studying Steven Spielberg’s films in England, with “Jurassic Park” among the first movies he saw as a child. He said the film has inspired him ever since, though he believes no one can surpass Spielberg’s original work and never expected to do so. Edwards said he hopes “Jurassic World Rebirth” will feel like a forgotten sequel from the 1990s, capturing the original’s style.

    A still from “Jurassic World Rebirth.” [Photo courtesy of Universal Pictures]

    Spielberg has remained closely involved with the franchise, having directed the original “Jurassic Park” and its sequel, “The Lost World: Jurassic Park,” and serving as executive producer on every subsequent film, including “Jurassic World Rebirth.” Since 1993, the franchise based on Michael Crichton’s novel has created a cinematic world of reborn dinosaurs and heroes, reinvented the blockbuster film, revolutionized special effects and launched two trilogies that have grossed over $6 billion worldwide, including 4.61 billion yuan ($644 million) from China.

    “We had Steven Spielberg guiding this whole film,” Edwards revealed. “He was watching everything we were filming every day, and as a filmmaker, that’s very nerve-racking. Sometimes we’d get a nice text, and I’d share it with the group when he said he loved what he’d seen, and that’s awesome.”

    Johansson said participating in “Jurassic World Rebirth” fulfilled “a childhood dream of mine.” She recalled that one of her earliest theater memories was watching “Jurassic Park” and that she had followed the franchise for 15 years, reaching out each time a new film was announced, though previous attempts had not worked out. The action superstar added that she told Spielberg she would accept any role in the “Jurassic” franchise — even playing what she called a “dinosnack” who gets eaten five minutes in.

    Standing alongside her colleagues, actor Scarlett Johansson speaks on stage at the China premiere of “Jurassic World Rebirth” in Shanghai, June 29, 2025. [Photo courtesy of Universal Pictures]

    But this time, Johansson landed something far more substantial. Cast as Zora Bennett, she plays a covert operations expert contracted to lead a team on a top-secret mission to secure genetic material. She and her team uncover a sinister discovery hidden for decades on the dinosaur island.

    To bring the story to life, the cast and crew went far beyond green screens, filming in natural locations across the U.K., Malta and Thailand. Along the way, they encountered wild animals from snakes and monkeys to poisonous insects.

    A still from “Jurassic World Rebirth.” [Photo courtesy of Universal Pictures]

    The director recalled going to a mangrove swamp in Thailand. Although everyone assured him it was safe, the crew still hired a snake wrangler just in case. Sure enough, the wrangler emerged with a giant yellow-and-black poisonous snake. “I said everybody has to make a promise right now that we’re not going to tell Scarlett Johansson until the film is finished,” Edwards said.

    Hearing this for the first time on stage, Johansson turned to the director and deadpanned, “I trusted you, Gareth, and I no longer trust you.”

    “The adventure of a lifetime!” Friend exclaimed.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Iran arrests over 50 with alledged ties to Israel, kills 2 in SE province

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

    Iran’s Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) said on Tuesday it had arrested more than 50 “terrorists and proxies” linked to Israel, and killed two others in the southeastern province of Sistan and Baluchestan.

    According to a statement published on IRGC’s official news outlet Sepah News, the individuals were also affiliated with “terror groups” based in eastern Iran and were detained or killed in operations over the past two weeks.

    Those individuals sought to destabilize the southern parts of Sistan and Baluchestan, and carry out sabotage operations to damage economic sectors and infrastructure, it said, adding that large quantities of weapons and ammunition, including American armaments, were seized from them.

    On June 13, Israel launched major airstrikes on several areas in Iran, including nuclear and military sites, killing senior commanders, nuclear scientists, and civilians. Iran responded with multiple waves of missile and drone attacks on Israel.

    After 12 days of fighting, a ceasefire between Iran and Israel was reached on June 24.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: US Senate passes Trump’s landmark mega-bill

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

    U.S. President Donald Trump speaks to the press at the White House in Washington, D.C., the United States, on June 27, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    The GOP-led Senate on Tuesday passed U.S. President Donald Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill, a major stride toward Trump’s goal of getting the legislation to his desk and signed by this week’s end.

    The sweeping bill passed narrowly by 51 to 50, with U.S. Vice President JD Vance casting the deciding ballot. Three Republicans were the only GOP lawmakers to vote no: senators Susan Collins, Thom Tillis and Rand Paul.

    The legislation is considered the GOP’s biggest legislative win in the lead-up to next year’s midterms, in which the party could lose its slim majority in the House.

    The bill extends Trump’s 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, slashes taxes on tips and provides new spending for the military and border security.

    “Today was a historic day … and we’re very excited to be a part of something that is going to make America stronger, safer and more prosperous,” Senate Majority Leader John Thune said after the bill passed the Senate.

    But there remains one more major hurdle ahead, as the bill needs to be passed in the House of Representatives, which is expected to vote as early as Wednesday.

    “It’s a great bill. There is something for everyone, and I think it’s going to go very nicely in the House. Actually, I think it will be easier in the House than it was in the Senate,” Trump said.

    However, Democrats have been vehemently opposed to the mega-bill, which funds an agenda to which Democrats stand in stark contrast.

    Democrats have blasted the tax cuts in the bill as reductions that benefit the wealthy. Republicans maintain that the cuts will help the middle class.

    The bill has angered Democrats for what the party says are cuts to essential programs such as Medicaid — health care coverage for low-income people — as well as to food stamps.

    Democrats also fret the bill will add trillions of U.S. dollars to the surging national debt.

    An analysis from the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) said the changes Trump made in the Senate version of the bill would add trillions of dollars to the already significant national debt, and that the bill would create considerable losses in health care coverage.

    The CBO has predicted that the bill would add 2.4 trillion dollars to the national debt in the next 10 years, while also pushing up the deficit by around 3.3 trillion dollars between 2025 and 2034.

    The CBO’s analysis also forecast that the bill would cause 11.8 million more Americans to lose their insurance by 2034, which, as experts have said, will surely create hurdles for the bill’s passage in the House before Trump’s July 4 deadline.

    MIL OSI China News –