Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Pan-African Youth Take the Lead at CorpsAfrica’s 2025 All-Country Conference in Nairobi

    In a powerful convergence of hope, action, and purpose, more than 1,000 young change-makers, policymakers, philanthropists, and development partners from across Africa came together in Nairobi on Wednesday to mark the opening of CorpsAfrica’s (www.CorpsAfrica.org) 2025 All-Country Conference (ACC 2025).

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    Under the theme ‘Leading with Ubuntu: African Youth Transforming the Continent,’ speakers at the ACC 2025 unanimously called for African governments to institutionalize youth volunteerism as a pillar of national development. They urged policymakers to create enabling environments while aligning volunteer programs with broader socio-economic objectives, including job creation, civic engagement, and education.

    “At a time when Africa’s youth are calling for meaningful opportunities and a voice in shaping their future, we stand firm in our belief that they are the solution. Our vision is to cultivate a generation of African leaders—rooted in community and committed to sparking sustainable change from the grassroots up,” said Liz Fanning, Founder and CEO of CorpsAfrica.

    CorpsAfrica’s ACC 2025 is the organisation’s flagship biennial gathering, uniting diverse stakeholders to champion and accelerate youth-driven development across Africa. Building on the momentum of the ACC 2023 in Kigali, Rwanda, this year’s five-day summit aims to elevate the role of African youth—not just as leaders of tomorrow but as present-day catalysts for community-led, youth-driven transformation.

    Hosted at the Kenya School of Government, ACC 2025 brings together CorpsAfrica Volunteers, alumni, and staff from all 11 operating countries—Kenya, Malawi, Ghana, Rwanda, Morocco, Senegal, Ethiopia, Uganda, The Gambia, South Africa, and Côte d’Ivoire —marking a continental milestone in celebrating the power of volunteerism, African philanthropy, and youth innovation.

    “Since 2011, we’ve deployed over 1,000 African volunteers to under-resourced rural communities—not to impose solutions, but to listen, collaborate, and implement low-cost, high-impact community-led projects rooted in Indigenous knowledge. These aren’t just projects; they’re transformative platforms for human-centered design and asset-based community development,” emphasized Dr. Samora Otieno, CorpsAfrica’s Chief of Programs.

    The results speak volumes: CorpsAfrica volunteers have spearheaded more than Over 10,500 social and economic activities and 425 small-scale, high-impact community projects since 2021, improving the lives of nearly 2 million people. From education and clean water access to food security and youth entrepreneurship, these grassroots efforts tackle Africa’s most pressing challenges—one community at a time.

    CorpsAfrica’s ACC 2025 convenes in Nairobi at a pivotal moment, as Africa’s youth champion calls for expanded access to employment, entrepreneurship, and meaningful economic inclusion. Africa is the world’s youngest continent, with more than 70% of sub-Saharan Africa’s population under the age of 30 – yet faces a youth unemployment crisis of staggering proportions.

    For example, Kenya’s youth unemployment rate exceeds 38%, while Nigeria and South Africa grapple with even higher rates of 42% and 46% respectively.

    The conference aligns with global recognition of volunteerism’s transformative potential—including the UN Volunteers’ 2022 State of the World’s Volunteerism Report, which urges nations to formally recognize volunteer time as a measurable national economic asset.

    “We must reframe volunteerism – not as unpaid work, but as transformative leadership and professional development that accelerates public service for the 21st century” emphasized Dr. Patricia King’ori-Mugendi, Country Director of CorpsAfrica/Kenya. ”

    CorpsAfrica envisions ACC 2025 as the catalyst for a fundamental shift—harnessing African philanthropy to scale grassroots innovation across the continent. The June 16-20, 2025 gathering embodies Ubuntu principles through its commitment to pan-African knowledge exchange and collaborative action.

    Beyond conventional conferences, ACC 2025 delivers actionable outcomes: from youth investment policy dialogues to hands-on social enterprise incubators and community innovation demonstrations. This initiative re-frames the youth empowerment conversation, positioning volunteerism not as an alternative but as a strategic springboard to meaningful employment, entrepreneurial success, and values-driven leadership.  

    Participants attended robust professional development workshops and received a professional certificate to accelerate their careers on completion of their Volunteer service and become CorpsAfrica Alumni.

    The Government of Kenya reaffirmed its commitment to youth empowerment and innovation during the conference. Hon. Salim Mvurya, Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sport, challenged African nations to break free from donor dependency, urging a collaborative approach where governments, local businesses, diaspora networks, and communities jointly invest in youth volunteerism programs that deliver tangible opportunities, social inclusion, and dignity.

    ‘Africa’s youth have spoken with unmistakable clarity,’ Mvurya declared. ‘They want jobs – not handouts; platforms – not patronage; and action – not promises. As policymakers, we recognize this reality. Young people aren’t waiting – they’re building. CorpsAfrica’s model proves what happens when we equip youth with both trust and tools to lead.’

    As the premier organization equipping young Africans to lead sustainable change in their communities, CorpsAfrica demonstrates a transformative model of development – conceived by Africans, led by Africans, and implemented by  Africans.

    ‘The All-Country Conference sends a clear message to our youth. As Africa’s true transformation architects, your place isn’t just in boardrooms – it’s in villages, farms, classrooms, and clinics. Real leadership begins where people live, work, and struggle@, concluded Dr. King’ori-Mugendi.

    CorpsAfrica is redefining volunteerism as a powerful professional pathway. By embedding service into education curricula, employment systems, and national development frameworks, CorpsAfrica is creating an ecosystem where community-driven solutions become Africa’s sustainable growth engine.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of CorpsAfrica.

    About CorpsAfrica:
    Founded in 2011, CorpsAfrica recruits and trains ambitious young Africans to serve as volunteers in remote, under-resourced communities in their own countries. These volunteers facilitate small-scale, high-impact projects that are identified by local people and designed through a process of community-led development and human-centered design. Learn more at www.CorpsAfrica.org.

    MIL OSI Africa

  • Sri Lankan ministers, cricketers join Yoga enthusiasts for IDY celebrations

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    On the 11th International Day of Yoga (IDY), several Sri Lankan ministers, parliamentarians, cricket legends, cultural icons, and local residents gathered at the iconic Independence Square in Colombo to practice yoga, highlighting its significance in promoting a healthy lifestyle.
     
    The event was organised by the Indian High Commission in Colombo, in collaboration with Sri Lanka’s Health Ministry. More than 100 yoga instructors from across the island nation demonstrated yoga to participants, including members of the tri-forces, police, students, and yoga enthusiasts.
     
    Several senior ministers of the Sri Lankan government, including Anil Jayantha and Chrishantha Abeysena, as well as Deputy Speaker Rizvie Salih and other prominent figures from industry, attended the event.
     
    Meanwhile, several other IDY celebrations were also held in Galle, Kandy, and Jaffna, organised by diplomatic offices across the country.
     
    The 2025 theme — ‘Yoga for One Earth, One Health’ — emphasises the connection between personal well-being and planetary health, aligning with India’s broader vision of global harmony through traditional wisdom.
     
    Earlier on Thursday, the Department of Ayurveda under the Ministry of Health of the Government of Sri Lanka, together with the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre (SVCC), the cultural arm of the High Commission of India in Colombo, jointly organised IDY celebrations across the island.
     
    In a historic first, this event was simultaneously held at 113 Ayurveda hospitals, including teaching and research institutions across all nine provinces of the South Asian nation, along with four universities.
     
    This collaborative celebration with SVCC marks the first time that the entire network of Ayurveda institutions in Sri Lanka has participated in IDY in a unified manner.
     
    The SVCC supported the initiative by providing yoga mats, instructional books, and curated video content to all participating centres.
     
    This island-wide event underscored the growing global recognition of yoga as a powerful tool for physical, mental, and spiritual well-being, while also strengthening traditional healthcare ties between Sri Lanka and India.
     
    —IANS
  • MIL-OSI Russia: Shanghai pub promotes barrier-free recreation for people with disabilities

    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, June 21 (Xinhua) — People sit in camping chairs and wheelchairs at an open-air concert. They sing, listen to music, chat and drink alcoholic beverages. As night falls, a neon sign reading “Pub Handycup” glows with a warm light.

    This scene, reminiscent of a still from a movie, unfolded in Shanghai. A year ago, this unusual establishment, designed with people with disabilities in mind, opened in the city center.

    Founder Xia Yujie watches with pride as his friends in wheelchairs move around the pub with ease, ordering and feeling at ease. “This is the perfect picture I have imagined for many years,” he says.

    With gentle ramps instead of steps, tables with rounded corners, a tactile pub map, a sign language board and ample room to maneuver, this 30-meter bar is a pioneer of its kind in China.

    Since opening last May, the pub has become a haven for people with and without disabilities. It serves around 10 craft beers daily, with a rotating selection, so they can drink and relax. It also hosts a range of accessibility events, including Braille workshops, book clubs and photography exhibitions.

    A regular customer surnamed Cui particularly appreciates the pub’s relaxed atmosphere. “No one judges you by your appearance here,” she told Xinhua. “Everyone is kind and willing to help each other.”

    For Xia Yujie, opening this bar was a mission of sorts. As a law school graduate with his left arm paralyzed due to a medical error in high school, he always wanted to create a welcoming space where people with disabilities could socialize, feel at home, integrate into the community, and shed stereotypes.

    For him, accessibility is not just about physical infrastructure. It is also about ensuring that everyone has equal access to recreational spaces that foster relationships and deepen connections.

    “People with disabilities have the same needs as everyone else,” Xia Yujie said. “But I often couldn’t find accessible places where everyone could just go, have a drink, and socialize as equals.”

    According to official statistics, there are about 85 million people with disabilities in China, equivalent to one-sixteenth of China’s entire population.

    In recent years, China has stepped up efforts to create a barrier-free environment. Significant progress has been made: libraries for the visually impaired have been created, special cinemas for wheelchair users have been equipped, and intelligent navigation systems for the blind have been introduced in public transport.

    In addition, in a number of regions, local authorities are actively involved in the refurbishment of housing and territory for people with disabilities, ensuring a barrier-free environment to facilitate their daily lives. Places such as Pub Handycup go beyond meeting basic needs, seeking to enrich the social life of these people and promote their sense of community and inclusion.

    Another regular, Bai, whose parents are hearing impaired, likens the pub to his childhood neighbourhood, where he feels a sense of belonging and enjoys the friendships of other guests. “It’s also pet-friendly. You can just play with them.”

    In the virtual world, pub-goers are also actively communicating. The Pub Handycup chat group brings together a wide range of members. Every day, the group is buzzing with discussion, sharing information about resources and activities to ensure accessibility, and joking about everyday topics.

    Active member Xiao Mi has received many birthday wishes in the chat. Living near the pub, he often comes to court in a wheelchair. Some time ago, he offered his help when Xia Yujie and his business partner were too busy.

    At the pub, Xiao Mi learned to pour drinks and make mulled wine, something he had never tried before. When the pub was busy, the outgoing man helped with service, moving between guests in his wheelchair. He even created a map that hangs on the wall with information about nearby facilities.

    Almost every week the pub hosts various events to support an accessible environment: master classes in sign language and Braille, art therapy sessions, and personal exhibitions of deaf photographers.

    Most of these events are initiated by the visitors themselves, who create pub-style events while showcasing their skills and ideas.

    “Some of our blind friends are good at Braille, so we collaborate with them to hold workshops to teach more people. In addition, our deaf-mute business friends sell their handicrafts in our pub,” Xia Yujie explained.

    The owner of the establishment expressed hope that the bar will be able to attract more residents of nearby areas to participate in events to support an accessible environment.

    “The many like-minded people I have met since opening the bar have reinforced my initial belief that what we do is not narrow-minded and we are not alone in this. It is a common idea for many people,” he said. “I also hope that more people can resonate with this.” -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Security: NATO and Armenia strengthen cooperation in support to defence reform

    Source: NATO

    Representatives from NATO’s Defence and Security Cooperation Directorate met with Armenia’s Deputy Chief of Defence, Major General Arthur Yeroyan, and the leadership of the Armenian Armed Forces’ education institutions in Yerevan, on 9 and 10 June 2025. Following a request from Armenia’s Ministry of Defence, a team of experts of NATO’s Defence Education Enhancement Programme (DEEP) conducted an assessment of the Armenian military education system, earlier this year. During the visit in June the DEEP team presented the assessment’s results and recommendations to the Armenian Deputy Chief of Defence.

    Armenia is currently developing a new military education concept and doctrinal basis for its armed forces, in line with Western standards. NATO and Armenia will prioritise their cooperation on doctrine development, the approach to combined arms, strategic leadership, and on the drafting of a human resources concept for all different officer ranks and career paths.

    NATO’s Defence Education Enhancement Programme is supporting the continued professionalisation of the Armenian security and defence structures, through institution building and faculty development activities, including by modernising the Language Centre and establishing an eLearning Centre in the national Military Academy. Additional efforts are being carried out to consolidate the National Defence Research University as strategic level military education institution and to boost the development of a NCO corps, with the aim to enhance the ability of Armenian personnel to work alongside NATO. 

    Armenian Deputy Chief of Defence, Major General Arthur Yeroyan, underscored that the support provided by NATO through its Defence Education Enhancement Programme is key for the ongoing modernisation efforts of the Armenian forces and defence institutions.

    MIL Security OSI

  • India to evacute citizens of Nepal, Sri Lanka from Iran

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Indian Embassy in Iran has said that it will make efforts to evacuate citizens of Nepal and Sri Lanka. The embassy noted that these efforts will be made at the request of the Governments of Nepal and Sri Lanka.

    “On request of the Governments of Nepal and Sri Lanka, the Indian Embassy’s evacuation efforts in Iran will also cover citizens of Nepal and Sri Lanka,” the Indian Embassy in Iran posted on X.

    The Indian government has launched Operation Sindhu to evacuate Indian nationals from Iran, given the deteriorating situation as a result of the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel.

    Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) official spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said on Saturday that, so far, 517 Indian nationals have returned to India from Iran under Operation Sindhu.

    Jaiswal stated that a special flight from Turkmenistan’s Ashgabat carrying Indians from Iran arrived in New Delhi on June 21.

    In a post on X, Jaiswal stated: “Operation Sindhu continues. A special evacuation flight from Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, landed in New Delhi at 0300 hrs on 21st June, bringing Indians from Iran home. With this, so far 517 Indian nationals from Iran have returned home under Operation Sindhu.”

    The conflict between Israel and Iran entered its ninth day on Saturday. The conflict began after Israel, on June 13, launched a massive airstrike on Iranian military and nuclear sites, dubbed “Operation Rising Lion.”

    In response, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) launched a large-scale drone and missile operation, “Operation True Promise 3,” targeting Israeli fighter jet fuel production facilities and energy supply centres.

    This is not the first time the Indian government has launched an operation to evacuate citizens from another country. In 2023, India launched Operation Kaveri to evacuate its citizens during violent military clashes in Sudan. Operation Ajay was launched in 2023 to evacuate Indian nationals from Israel during the Israel-Hamas conflict. Operation Ganga was launched in 2022 to evacuate Indian nationals when war erupted between Russia and Ukraine. 

    In 2021, the Indian government launched Operation Devi Shakti to evacuate citizens from Afghanistan after the Taliban takeover. Operation Samudra Setu was launched in 2020 to evacuate Indians via sea during the COVID-19 pandemic. Operation Raahat was conducted in 2015 to evacuate citizens amid the civil conflict in Yemen. In 2011, India launched Operation Safe Homecoming to bring home nationals during the Libyan civil war amid the Arab Spring.

    (ANI)

  • MIL-Evening Report: Israel blocks Gaza aid organisations’ access to fuel, hospitals running out

    BEARING WITNESS: By Cole Martin in occupied Bethlehem

    Kia ora koutou, 

    I’m a Kiwi journo in occupied Bethlehem, here’s a brief summary of today’s events across the Palestinian and Israeli territories from on the ground.

    Sixty nine people killed in Gaza, 12 while seeking aid, and 221 injured (172 seeking aid). 11 killed by Israeli airstrike on a house in central Gaza. Qassam Brigades carried out a “complex” ambush against Israeli forces in southern Gaza. Israel are preventing humanitarian organisations from accessing fuel storage sites in the enclave, hospital supplies last for just three days.

    *

    Iranian authorities report five hospitals damaged in targeted Israeli strikes, have arrested 16 agents allegedly linked to Israel, and offered Israeli “collaborators” a pardon if they surrender their drones by July 1.

    *

    Two US destroyers have arrived in the eastern Mediterranean, bringing the total to five in the region and two in the Red Sea.

    *

    An Israeli drone targeted a car in southern Lebanon, violating the existing ceasefire and Lebanese sovereignty yet again.

    *

    Israeli leaders double down on their accusations that Iran is developing nuclear bombs, despite the international watchdog, IAEA [International Atomic Energy Agency], saying there is no sufficient evidence. 18 injured by Iranian missile in the southern Israeli territories, 17 in Haifa. Strikes targeted Israel’s Channel 14 news stations as threatened, after Israeli forces struck Iran’s state broadcaster two days ago. 100 million shekel pledged by Israeli regime to build 1000 new bomb shelters in some areas; the regime is known for under-investment in Palestinian neighbourhoods.

    *

    More checkpoints and barriers installed across the West Bank. Ambulance movement continues to be disrupted by gas shortages in Bethlehem. Despite the war, Israeli occupation forces continue extensive home demolitions in Nour Shams refugee camp in the northern West Bank. Settlers crush and uproot Palestinian olive trees near Sinjil, north of Ramallah. Occupation bulldozers dug up roads south of Jenin. Palestinian residents were shot at by settlers while trying to extinguish fires west of Bethlehem.

    *

    Israel’s genocidal war in Gaza continues, with minimal political intervention to prevent it.

    Cole Martin is an independent New Zealand photojournalist based in the Middle East and a contributor to Asia Pacific Report.

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-OSI China: Belt and Road Film Week opens in Shanghai, fueling cross-cultural ties

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

    The Belt and Road Film Week opened in Shanghai on June 18 as part of the 27th Shanghai International Film Festival (SIFF), serving as a platform for international industry dialogue and offering an immersive cultural experience for residents and visitors.

    Actors Huang Xiaoming, Tang Yan and Yu Shi receive certificates appointing them as Belt and Road Film Week ambassadors during the opening ceremony in Shanghai, June 18, 2025. [Photo courtesy of SIFF Organizing Committee]

    The event, themed “Travel through Cinema” and held primarily in Shanghai’s Pudong New Area, features a diverse program, including film screenings, cultural industry roundtables, the Charm Pudong Tour cultural experience, and a Belt and Road lifestyle market. Organizers said they aim to combine industry expertise with public participation and promote global cultural exchange.

    This year’s lineup features 15 films from Belt and Road countries, spanning a range of genres. Several entries have been screened at major film festivals, including Rotterdam, Locarno, and Tokyo. The program centers on cross-cultural narratives and regional identities, aiming to spotlight the cultures along the ancient Silk Road.

    Event coordinators have arranged eight post-screening filmmaker meet-and-greets, some of which have sold out. Five standout films are screening concurrently in Nanjing, Suzhou, Hangzhou, Ningbo and Hefei, extending the SIFF experience across the Yangtze River Delta. Honors such as the Audience Choice Award and Audience Recommendation Award are being decided by public voting during the film week.

    The event is bringing together more than 40 international filmmakers from over 20 Belt and Road countries in Pudong. Throughout the week, participants will explore key industry topics such as cross-border film collaboration, international distribution strategies, and the nurturing of emerging talent under the Belt and Road Initiative through alliance meetings and roundtable forums.

    The Belt and Road Film Festival Alliance, the foundation of the film week, has expanded rapidly since its launch. With the recent addition of the Serbia International Film and Music Festival, the alliance now includes 56 institutions in 49 countries, up from 31 institutions in 29 countries. Twenty alliance members and international guests received honorary certificates during the opening ceremony.

    Members of the Belt and Road Film Festival Alliance and international guests receive honorary certificates during the opening ceremony of the Belt and Road Film Week in Shanghai, June 18, 2025. [Photo courtesy of SIFF Organizing Committee]

    To strengthen cinematic exchanges among Belt and Road countries, this year’s film week appointed actors Huang Xiaoming, Yu Shi and Tang Yan as event ambassadors. Organizers said the trio will help broaden international outreach and engage audiences in China and overseas.

    The year 2025 marks the 130th anniversary of world cinema and the 120th anniversary of Chinese cinema. Shanghai, the birthplace of Chinese film, has played a key role in both the nation’s cinematic evolution and the global industry. Since its launch seven years ago, the Belt and Road Film Week has combined international films with Chinese storytelling abroad, strengthening cultural ties and expanding its global reach each year.

    Building on last year’s Latin American Fiesta, this year’s Belt and Road Film Week includes a Southeast Asian market at Bicester Village Shanghai. The summer event combines culture, tourism, commerce, sports and exhibitions. Inspired by the Belt and Road Initiative, the market blends Southeast Asian and local elements, offering an immersive experience of food, art and film.

    The Belt and Road Film Week has also brought significant film industry resources to the Shanghai International Resort Area, a major tourism and entertainment zone in Pudong that includes the Shanghai Disney Resort and other commercial and cultural facilities. More than 180 film and cultural companies now operate in the area, covering entertainment, tourism, business and exhibitions.

    Representatives of 20 key film and cultural projects sign agreements to establish operations at the resort during the Belt and Road Film Week opening ceremony in Shanghai, June 18, 2025. [Photo courtesy of SIFF Organizing Committee]

    This year, 20 additional film and cultural companies set up operations in the resort area. Representatives signed agreements at an on-site ceremony during the opening event, marking a new stage in the development of Shanghai International Resort Area as a film and creative hub. Organizers said these efforts support the resort’s goal of becoming a globally influential screen culture center.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI China: Bayern, Flamengo reach Club World Cup last 16

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

    Bayern Munich and Flamengo booked their places in the last 16 of the FIFA Club World Cup on Friday with wins over Boca Juniors and Chelsea, while Benfica boosted its hopes of advancing after routing Auckland City.

    Esperance also kept alive its knockout-stage chances by edging past Los Angeles FC, which joined Auckland in exiting the tournament.

    In Philadelphia, Brazil’s Flamengo moved three points clear at the top of Group D after recovering from a goal down to overcome Chelsea 3-1.

    Portuguese winger Pedro Neto put Chelsea ahead when he capitalized on Wesley Franca’s miscued clearance to dribble almost half the length of the pitch before calmly shooting past Argentine goalkeeper Agustin Rossi.

    Flamengo equalized just after the hour through Bruno Henrique, who tapped home after Gonzalo Plata flicked on Gerson’s cross.

    The Rio de Janeiro outfit suddenly had the momentum, and Henrique turned provider three minutes later as his header set up Danilo to volley home at the far post.

    Chelsea was reduced to 10 men in the 68th minute after Nicolas Jackson was shown a straight red card for a studs-up challenge on Lucas Ayrton.

    Wallace Yan put the result beyond doubt by playing a slick one-two with Plata before firing in from the edge of the six-yard box.

    “We always believed that we had a chance,” Flamengo manager Filipe Luis said afterwards. “I’m very proud because after our mistake in giving away the first goal, we didn’t drop our heads. We continued to play the same way. We gave our all until the end and that warms my heart.”

    In Orlando, Angel Di Maria and Leandro Barreiro scored twice apiece as Benfica romped to a 6-0 victory over Auckland City.

    Benfica initially struggled to breach the New Zealand club’s five-man defense but Di Maria broke the deadlock from the penalty spot just before halftime.

    It was all one-way traffic thereafter, despite a two-hour delay due to a storm alert. Vangelis Pavlidis, Renato Sanches, Barreiro and Di Maria were all on target in the second half as Benfica registered its first win of the tournament.

    The Portuguese side is now second in Group C with four points while Auckland City is last with 16 goals conceded in two matches.

    “This is the longest game of my career,” Benfica head coach Bruno Lage said. “A special thanks to our fans, who have been here for five hours supporting the team. We played as well as we could. The [hot] temperature made it very difficult.”

    In Nashville, Tunisia’s Esperance kept alive its hopes of reaching the next stage with a 1-0 victory over Los Angeles FC.

    Youcef Belaili handed his side the lead in the 70th minute when he pounced on a loose ball in the area and drilled a low shot that deflected in off the left leg of goalkeeper Hugo Lloris.

    Esperance is now third in Group D and will need to beat Chelsea in Philadelphia on Tuesday to progress to the knockout phase. Los Angeles FC is fourth, having failed to pick up a point so far and with no chance of progressing.

    In Miami, France international midfielder Michael Olise scored late as Bayern Munich kept its perfect record intact with a 2-1 win over Argentine side Boca Juniors.

    Harry Kane opened the scoring for the Bundesliga champions when he intercepted a defensive clearance and fired low into the far corner with his weaker left foot.

    Uruguayan forward Miguel Merentiel equalized by running onto Alan Velasco’s through ball and ghosting past Josip Stanisic before clinically finishing past Manuel Neuer.

    Olise restored Bayern’s lead six minutes from time with a fizzing drive from distance after Kane’s clever layoff.

    While the German club is assured of a place in the next round, Boca will need to defeat Auckland City by a hefty margin on Tuesday to have any chance of advancing.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Kirsty Coventry Unveils Collaborative & Inclusive International Olympic Committee (IOC) Leadership Vision at First Public Media Roundtable

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    In her first major media appearance since being elected President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), Kirsty Coventry offered a strikingly human portrait of the leader she intends to be: humble, collaborative, and unwaveringly grounded in the values of sport, equity, and Olympism, as she addressed international media during an online open roundtable on Zoom this afternoon.

    FIRST WOMAN & AFRICAN Speaking candidly for over an hour, the Zimbabwean reflected on the life journey that brought her from the pools of Harare to the corridors of Olympic power in Lausanne. Her presidency, set to begin officially on Olympic Day, 23 June 2025, will mark a historic moment as she becomes the first woman and first African to lead the IOC.

    GROUNDED LEADERSHIP Coventry made it clear that her leadership will not be rooted in authority, but in consensus and a collaborative, human-centred vision: ”In both my personal and professional career, I’ve always had incredible people around me to keep me grounded and humble; those are people whom I will continue to keep around me.” 

    She added: “Values are at the core of our daily business, they’re incredibly important in today’s communities, and I hold this very close to my heart.”

    WHY IOC FORUMS MATTER Replying to a question from Japan’s Wakako Yuki on the role of IOC Forums in attribute Conventry’s vision as president, “I have a vision that I would like to see, but I want to do it in a collaborative way. The Athletes Forum, eSport, Olympism365, the two ASOIF and WOF General Assemblies have been great platforms to listen to people, to hear topics that are important to them.”

    2ND MEDIA ROUNDTABLE IN SIGHT Coventry announced that immediately following the IOC Session on June 23-24, she has invited members to stay for a two-day “pause and reflect” workshop, an opportunity for honest dialogue about the IOC’s challenges and future direction: 

    “I’ve invited the IOC members to stay two extra days so that I can hear what is on their mind and what they see as our opportunities and what they may see as our challenges, as we move into the future and come up with different ideas. This is the first point in a longer consultation process with all stakeholders, including yourselves as media, where we’ll create another round table where I’ll get to ask you all a bunch of questions. That will strengthen the Olympic movement in a collaborative way.”

    VALUES CARRIED TO IOC PRESIDENCY Nadine Hassan from Jordan asked Kirsty, looking back on her journey, from Olympic champion to minister and now IOC President, which moments off the podium had the greatest impact in shaping the person she is today? “I’ll need a moment to properly reflect on this. I think I’d have to go back to my roots. Growing up in Zimbabwe played a huge role. It’s a small community in many ways. We’re a big country geographically, but we’re just 15 million people, and we lean on each other.

    “I think that kind of upbringing, maybe a bit more sheltered, surrounded by strong values and close-knit support, helped me understand the importance of having grounded, humble, genuine people around me. And it’s those people who’ve consistently reminded me of where I come from. That’s been one of the most powerful influences throughout my journey.

    CHALLENGES, AND DIFFICULT MEN.. New York Times reporter Tariq Panja referenced Coventry’s previous remarks about dealing with “difficult men.” She smiled knowingly and recounted the pressures she faced as a young Olympic medallist representing Zimbabwe during politically turbulent times: 

    “As athletes, we had a lot of pressure coming from different government officials in Zimbabwe, and you know, it was hard. To look at others and trying to say, I’m an athlete, I don’t believe in the politics in sport. I want to just focus on performing well,” She said, without names mentioned, “Looking back now, it taught me a lot about how to work with people, how to be respectful of differing opinions and still move forward on a shared agenda.”

    WOMEN SUPPORT WOMEN USA’s Rachel Axon asked, How has your career been shaped by other women at various career points, adding the gender equality initiatives to your role as female IOC President. Conventry highlighted the women who shaped her path, from her mother and grandmother to her university head swim coach, even Olympic trailblazers like Donna de Varona:

    She said, “My grandfather passed away when Mom was in her late teens. And so my grandmother was a single mom for most of her life, with three kids, and both were just incredibly strong women who raised families, and I think my mom’s pretty great, and my uncle and aunt. She did a great job, but she also had a successful career in fashion. My mum got to see her doing that, so she was always an incredible role model for my sister and I.”

    She adds: “My swim coach, Kim, who became a Division I coach while her husband was deployed overseas, with two very young kids, watching how she balanced that was inspiring. When we were preparing for the 2004 Olympics, her eldest came to Athens as a baby.. Again, I’ve been fortunate in my life to have very strong women around me who have shown me that it’s possible. It’s not always easy, but it’s possible,” noting her hope to pay that inspiration forward, especially for her two daughters.

    AFRICAN HERITAGE A question from China’s Mandan Zhu touched on Coventry’s rich international background and the impact of her African heritage, coming from Harare to Lausanne as a little girl with big dreams,“I can remember exactly where I was standing in my parents’ living room. I was still in my swimsuit, feeling cold after swimming in the pool, only to stand in front of the TV and watch divers compete. I would say that there’s never a dream too big.

    “You know, where there is a will to achieve, there’s a way. And don’t let someone talk you out of having that dream of what could be the best thing that happens to you. It’s quite powerful.”

    WEIGHT OF BEING ‘FIRST’ British journalist Jamie Gardner asked Coventry about the significance of becoming the IOC’s first female president at this particular moment in history. While she admitted it wasn’t something she initially focused on, the outpouring of messages from women around the world has since left a powerful mark: “I had a coworker tell me that his mum said, ‘Never in my lifetime did I think I’d see a woman lead the movement you work for.’” That moment, she admitted, hit her deeply. “It’s not just an exciting day, it’s a day with a lot of responsibility.”

    FROM SYDNEY TO BRISBANE Australia, particularly the Sydney 2000 Games, remains a defining touchstone for Coventry’s Olympic journey. Asked about her journey coming full circle, from a wide-eyed young swimmer at Sydney 2000 to President for Brisbane 2032, Coventry shared a funny tale about struggling to put on her first Speedo sharkskin suit, helped up by none other than Australian legend Susie O’Neill:

    “When we arrived in Sydney, I went into the changing room to try my Speedo suit on, and it turned into a total disaster. I had one leg in, was struggling to get the other in, lost my balance completely, and toppled over. Mortifying. Then this amazing person next to me leans down to help, and as I look up, I realise… It’s Susie. I never forget that moment because she was a role model to me, those Games, changed everything for me,” she recalled. “Now I hope Brisbane will show the world the warmth and passion of Australia, and inspire the next generations like Sydney did for me.”

    LIFTING VOICES As the media roundtable with IOC President-elect Kirsty Coventry progressed, her clarity of purpose sharpened further. In a movement often shaped by the world’s most powerful nations, Coventry made a point of bringing attention to her roots, and how they shape her priorities: “I come from a much smaller NOC, a developing country,” she said of Zimbabwe. “And I understand the challenges our athletes face. How do we close that gap? How do we ensure that athletes from all walks of life, if not with the same opportunities, at least have equal opportunities?”

    Coventry affirms that she intends to elevate voices often left on the margins. Her presidency, she hinted, will focus as much on inclusion as it will on innovation.

    LEARNING FROM YOUNG GENERATIONS Perhaps the most poignant reminder of who Coventry is, and who she intends to be as IOC President, came when she spoke about her own children. “They’re a daily reminder of our responsibility to keep sport relevant, and to listen, really listen, to what young people think is important. Kids are honest,” she said with a smile. “And sometimes that’s a very good thing.”

    Her two young daughters, she explained, are constant reminders that sport must remain relevant and engaging for younger generations. Despite the gravity of her new role, Coventry remains adamant about keeping her family grounded: “We won’t be staying in the Lausanne Palace. I want my kids to grow up doing the same things I did, making their beds, doing house chores, and just being kids.”

    ROAD AHEAD As Kirsty Coventry prepares to officially assume the role on June 23, her message is one of optimism, inclusivity, and integrity. With the weight of history on her shoulders and the wind of lived experience at her back, she is poised not just to lead the Olympic Movement but to reshape it for the modern age, starting by one athlete, one story, one honest conversation at a time.

    – on behalf of International Sports Press Association (AIPS).

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    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Sechin named Russia, Venezuela and Iran key players in ensuring global energy security

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    Russia, Venezuela and Iran are key players in the energy market, on whose supplies global energy security depends, said Rosneft Chief Executive Officer Igor Sechin at the Energy Panel at the XXVIII St. Petersburg International Economic Forum.

    “Russia, Venezuela and Iran are key players in the energy market, on whose supplies global energy security directly depends. They account for a third of the world’s liquid hydrocarbon reserves and 15% of global production. Without their resource base, the transition to a new image of global energy is impossible,” the head of the Company said.

    At the same time, according to Sechin, Russia’s real contribution to the global economy is proportional to its share in the global resource balance.

    “Our country’s share in global hydrocarbon exports is about 15%. However, the Russian resource base is not only hydrocarbons, but also metals. Russia’s share in gold mining is about 10%, and in the production of metals such as high-grade nickel and palladium, it reaches 20% and 40%, respectively,” the CEO said.

    The head of Rosneft also noted that Russia contains about 10% of the world’s reserves of rare earth metals, without which the development of modern technologies is impossible.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft June 21, 2025

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    MIL OSI Russia News

  • Hundreds across pacific nations participate in International Day of Yoga

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Countries across the Pacific, including New Zealand, Fiji, Papua New Guinea, and Tonga, on Saturday celebrated the 11th International Day of Yoga (IDY), with large numbers of yoga enthusiasts joining the global occasion.

    In New Zealand, over 150 yoga practitioners from Kiwi, Indian, and international communities gathered to mark IDY. The event, held with a vibrant spirit, was organized at the High Commission of India in collaboration with Heartfulness, Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh, and the Art of Living Foundation.

    Former New Zealand Governor Anand Satyanand attended as the Chief Guest.

    The Indian High Commission in New Zealand also shared glimpses of the Yoga Day celebrations at the iconic Beehive (New Zealand Parliament) on its social media platforms, highlighting the enthusiastic participation.

    In Papua New Guinea, the Indian High Commission partnered with the Active City Development Programme (ACDP) to host celebrations at Ela Beach in the capital city, Port Moresby. Over 250 participants from various communities took part in the event.

    Papua New Guinea Governor Powes Parkop, who attended as Chief Guest, spoke about how yoga has positively transformed his life.

    Addressing the gathering, Mukesh Kumar Ambasta, Charge d’Affaires (Cd’A) of the Indian High Commission in Papua New Guinea, emphasized the significance of this year’s IDY theme, “Yoga for One Earth, One Health”, highlighting the deep connection between personal well-being and planetary health.

    In Tonga, around 60 yoga enthusiasts participated in the Yoga Day event held at the Tanoa International Dateline Hotel in Nukuʻalofa. The event was jointly organized by the Indian High Commission and the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre of Fiji, in collaboration with the Tongan Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

    Tonga’s Health Minister, Ana Akaola, was also present at the event.

    Meanwhile, in Fiji, the Indian High Commission and the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre hosted the Yoga Day celebration at the iconic Grand Pacific Hotel in Suva, the capital.

    “Grateful to Biman Prasad, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance of Fiji, for joining as the Chief Guest. Heartfelt thanks to all yoga enthusiasts — including diplomats, the diaspora, and media members — who made today’s event truly special,” the Indian High Commission in Suva posted on X.

    Deputy Prime Minister Prasad also shared a message on social media: “As we mark International Day of Yoga, let us reflect on yoga’s power to heal, unite, and inspire. Yoga for ‘One Earth, One Health’ reminds us to care for ourselves and our planet. A few minutes a day can transform lives.”

    — IANS

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Increased funding for festivals

    Source: Scottish Government

    Record culture funding uplift to benefit 14 festivals in 2025-26.

    Fourteen major festivals across Edinburgh and Glasgow will receive funding increases this year, thanks to a record uplift in the Scottish culture budget.

    As part of an overall £4 million increase for festivals in 2025-26 Scottish Budget, this year’s Festival EXPO Fund has awarded a total of £2.8 million across the 14 festivals, up from £1.7 million the previous year.

    Festivals Edinburgh will also receive £200,000 via Creative Scotland to support their branding and marketing work to promote the Edinburgh festivals.

    Established in 2007, the Scottish Government’s Festival EXPO Fund is designed to support festival innovation and maximise national and international opportunities for the artists who contribute to them. The fund is managed by Creative Scotland on behalf of the Scottish Government.

    Culture Secretary Angus Robertson said:

    “Scotland’s festivals are our cultural shopfront to the rest of the world. As well as offering performers and creatives an unrivalled international platform, they also deliver an annual economic uplift to businesses, jobs and livelihoods right across the country.

    “This year’s funding increase for the existing EXPO festivals cohort represents an increase of £1 million across the 14 festivals in Glasgow and Edinburgh, the first in 10 years. It recognises the success of festivals in shaping and supporting hundreds of commissions, enhancing the ambitions of thousands of Scottish artists and attracting audiences in the millions for EXPO-supported work since the fund’s creation in 2007.

    “From this foundation we will expand the reach of the EXPO fund across the whole of Scotland, and I am working with festivals across the country through the Strategic Festivals Partnership to realise this commitment.”

    Dana MacLeod, Executive Director of Arts, Communities and Inclusion at Creative Scotland said:

    “We welcome the Scottish Government’s commitment to the Festivals EXPO Fund, providing invaluable support for Scotland’s world-class festivals. The EXPO Fund enables Scotland’s festivals to commission bold ideas, develop creative collaborations and present high-quality programmes for audiences in Scotland and internationally.”

    Lori Anderson, Director of Festivals Edinburgh said:

    “Today’s announcement is welcome news for our festivals and for Scotland’s cultural sector, ensuring that the guiding principle of the Scottish Government’s Festivals EXPO Fund – to showcase Scottish talent to the world on the country’s premier festival platforms – continues to successfully support creative careers.”

    Background:

    Strategic Partnership for Scotland’s Festivals – second open letter from Culture Secretary Angus Robertson – gov.scot

    Multi-Year Funding Outcome Announcement | Creative Scotland

    EXPO Fund 2025-26 recipients:

    • Edinburgh Jazz & Blues Festival: £195,000
    • Edinburgh International Film Festival: £193,000
    • Edinburgh Art Festival: £200,000
    • Edinburgh International Book Festival: £200,000
    • Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society (Made in Scotland 2026): £670,000
    • Edinburgh International Festival: £100,000
    • Scottish International Storytelling Festival: £200,000
    • Edinburgh’s Hogmanay: £180,000
    • Edinburgh Science Festival: £150,000
    • Imaginate: £188,000
    • Celtic Connections: £154,000
    • Glasgow Film Festival: £120,000
    • Glasgow International: £130,000
    • Sonica: £120,000

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Tesla to Build Grid-Level Energy Storage Station in Shanghai

    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, June 21 (Xinhua) — U.S. automaker Tesla signed a deal with Chinese partners on Friday to build a grid-scale energy storage station in Shanghai using its Megapack battery packs.

    The total investment in the project will be 4 billion yuan (about $556 million). The agreement marks Tesla’s entry into China’s rapidly growing energy storage market and paves the way for its facility to be connected to the world’s largest power grid.

    According to the agreement signed by Tesla, the Lingang New Area Government of China /Shanghai/ Pilot Free Trade Zone, the People’s Government of Fengxian District of Shanghai and China Kangfu International Leasing Co., Ltd., the gigawatt-hour energy storage station will be built in the Lingang New Area.

    It will be Tesla’s first grid-scale energy storage station built in mainland China.

    Tesla China’s energy business general manager Dong Kun said that once operational, the station will participate in spot electricity trading, helping to smooth out peak loads in local networks and improve the stability of the power system.

    Tesla also plans to expand its partnership with China Kangfu to deliver carbon-free energy solutions globally.

    In February of this year, the new Tesla Megafactory in the new Lingang area (Tesla’s second plant in Shanghai after the Gigafactory) began producing Megapack batteries.

    Tesla predicts 50 percent year-over-year growth in energy storage capacity in 2025. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Direct passenger rail service between Pyongyang and Khabarovsk has been resumed

    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

    Khabarovsk, June 21 (Xinhua) — Direct rail service between the capital of the DPRK, Pyongyang, and Khabarovsk, the administrative center of Russia’s Khabarovsk Krai, was resumed recently.

    On Saturday at noon, the first train after a five-year break arrived in Khabarovsk, departing from Pyongyang on the 19th. Travel time is just over two days.

    Direct non-stop service between the two cities will be carried out once a month. From Pyongyang the train departs on the 19th and arrives in Khabarovsk on the 21st, from Khabarovsk on the 21st, arriving in Pyongyang on the 23rd of each month.

    As reported earlier, passenger rail service between Moscow and Pyongyang resumed on June 17. The train that departed from the capital of the DPRK on that day will arrive in Moscow on June 25. Pyongyang-Moscow is the longest direct rail route in the world. The distance between the capitals of the states is more than 10 thousand km, and the travel time is 8 days.

    Russian Railways noted that Russian rail service with the DPRK was suspended in February 2020 due to COVID-19. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Sechin points out the scientific groundlessness of climate alarmism

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    From a scientific point of view, large-scale implementation of renewable energy sources will not have the expected effect on the climate. The refusal of the main initiators of the climate agenda to implement it and the termination of preferential financing of “green” projects is confirmed by the objective findings of a number of scientists. This was stated by the Chief Executive Officer of PJSC “NK” Rosneft “Igor Sechin during the Energy Panel of the XXVIII St. Petersburg International Economic Forum.

    Sechin noted that the entire concept of “net zero” is based on the assumption of climate destruction due to the growth of carbon dioxide concentrations. However, recent studies by Western experts have confirmed earlier findings by Nobel laureate John Clauser on the dominant influence of clouds on climate processes. “Even a slight decrease in cloudiness at an altitude of less than 2,000 meters can increase the heating of the Earth’s surface by solar rays by several percent. This effect is several times greater than the impact that doubling the concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere could have on the climate,” said the head of Rosneft.

    According to the conclusions of American physicists Richard Lindzen and William Happer, achieving “net zero” in the United States by 2050 will allow avoiding a temperature increase of only two hundredths of a degree Fahrenheit, and worldwide – only thirteen hundredths of a degree. The effect looks clearly incommensurate with the volume of required costs, Igor Sechin emphasized.

    He also noted the ambiguity of the thesis about the reduction of ice cover, which is often used by supporters of the “green” transition theory. Recent studies by Chinese scientists have shown that from 2021 to 2023, there was a significant increase in ice mass in Antarctica, 108 gigatons annually.

    The head of Rosneft believes that the development of renewable energy sources should be based on time-tested traditional energy sources, so as not to undermine global energy security. Historically, the energy transition has always been the result of growing inter-fuel competition based on the principle of greatest efficiency. Therefore, today coal remains the largest source of electricity in the world and the second largest source of energy with a share of 25% in the global energy balance.

    “The global demand for this type of fuel last year set a new record of 8.8 billion tons, and international agencies were once again forced to revise their expectations for peak demand for it,” Sechin summed up. Despite the growing concern of the world community about global warming, since the signing of the Kyoto Protocol in 1997, coal consumption in the world has grown by 75%, and after the conclusion of the Paris Agreement in 2015 – by almost 15%.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft June 21, 2025

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

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China is moving towards complete energy independence and will soon become a major energy exporter – head of Rosneft

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    China is moving towards complete energy independence and in the foreseeable future will transform from an importer into a major energy exporter, said Rosneft CEO Igor Sechin in his report at the Energy Panel at the XXVIII St. Petersburg International Economic Forum.

    He noted that China is a unique example of a competent approach to the development of the energy system – the country today accounts for a third of global investment in the energy sector.

    “In my opinion, China, having already ensured its energy security, is confidently moving towards complete energy independence, forming a stable energy balance based on its own resources. There is no doubt, taking into account the persistence and professionalism of our Chinese friends, that in the foreseeable future they will achieve the desired result, which will turn China from an importer of energy resources into a major exporter of energy,” the head of Rosneft noted.

    According to Igor Sechin, in recent years, it is China that has been introducing the largest volume of new renewable energy capacity and is home to more than 70% of the world’s capacity for producing equipment for the “green” economy. This concerns the entire value chain: from critical minerals to the production of high-tech equipment that has no analogues in Western countries.

    The head of Rosneft also noted China’s efforts to increase investment in related infrastructure: investment in power grids increased by 15% last year, and could double this year. “Investments in storage batteries have grown almost fivefold and reached $11 billion. Today, the total capacity of such batteries in China exceeds 35 GW, which is two-thirds of all global capacity,” said Igor Sechin.

    At the same time, China has never given up on fossil fuels. In terms of the volume of new coal-fired power generation capacity introduced over the past five years, the country has outpaced the rest of the world. “Today, the share of coal in electricity production in China is almost 60%. Last year alone, China issued permits for the construction of about 100 gigawatts of new coal-fired power generation, the highest figure in the past ten years, which should strengthen the role of coal in the energy system,” the head of Rosneft emphasized.

    China’s efforts to strengthen its own energy security are causing a storm of criticism, often disguised as concern for the environment. “As the outstanding Chinese strategist and thinker Sun Tzu aptly noted two and a half thousand years ago: ‘The more brilliant your plan, the fewer people will agree with it,’” the head of Rosneft added.

    Sechin said China’s coordinated approach to energy security is particularly evident in the example of electric vehicles. The growth of their sales led to a significant slowdown in demand for motor fuel last year, and “the continuation of this trend could have a significant reverse effect on the balance of the oil market.”

    An important part of China’s strategy to reduce dependence on energy imports is the processing of coal into synthetic fuel and chemical products. “Chinese companies are investing billions of dollars in the development of this industry. According to experts, today 40 million tons of coal in China are used to produce synthetic fuel and more than 260 million tons are used to produce methanol and ammonia,” Igor Sechin concluded.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft June 21, 2025

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    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Rosneft has completed development and plans to implement GTL technology in the Taimyr project – Sechin

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    Speaking at the Energy Panel at the XXVIII St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, Rosneft CEO Igor Sechin said that the Company had completed the development of its own technologies and catalysts for the entire GTL* process chain.

    “I would like to inform you that Rosneft has also completed the development of its own technologies and catalysts for the entire GTL process chain. All stages of the technological process are covered by the corresponding patents. It is planned to implement this technology in Taimyr,” said Igor Sechin.

    The Head of the Company demonstrated a flask with the obtained fuel to the participants of the energy panel, noting that it is synthetic oil consisting of the purest hydrocarbon molecules, with zero sulfur content. “We are ready to provide samples to anyone who is interested,” he added, addressing the participants and listeners of the Energy Panel.

    Speaking about the importance of such fuel, Igor Sechin cited the example of China, where an important part of the strategy to reduce dependence on energy imports is the processing of coal into synthetic fuel and chemical products. “Chinese companies are investing billions of dollars in the development of this industry. According to experts, today in China 40 million tons of coal are used to produce synthetic fuel and more than 260 million tons – to produce methanol and ammonia,” Igor Sechin emphasized.

    *GTL or Gas-to-Liquid is a technology for converting natural gas into high-quality liquid hydrocarbons such as diesel fuel, gasoline, etc.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft June 21, 2025

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    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Sechin called the new face of energy a synthesis of traditional and alternative sources

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    The synthesis of traditional and alternative energy sources is currently the optimal solution for the development of the global energy sector, said Rosneft Chief Executive Officer Igor Sechin at the Energy Panel at the XXVIII St. Petersburg International Economic Forum.

    According to the head of the Company, the search for new energy sources never stops, and today active work is underway to develop a number of promising technologies. However, their full implementation is still far away, since modern technological solutions in this area are too expensive and inferior to traditional energy sources in a number of parameters.

    “For many years now, great hopes have been placed on the use of hydrogen. However, low-carbon hydrogen still accounts for less than 1% of all produced volumes. According to the consulting company Deloitte, the introduction of “green” hydrogen fuel will cost almost 10 trillion dollars by 2050,” noted Igor Sechin, adding that the cost of green hydrogen varies from 200 to 400 dollars per barrel of oil equivalent, which, in the current conditions, makes it uncompetitive compared to oil and gas.

    He also stressed that using cheaper methods of hydrogen production does not reduce the carbon footprint, since the production of so-called “grey” hydrogen exceeds the emissions that occur during the full cycle of production and use of gasoline.

    The introduction of space solar energy is also associated with large expenses, Igor Sechin emphasized. The head of the Company noted that the cost of a satellite capable of converting solar energy into electricity in space exceeds 30 billion euros, while there is still no technology that would allow transmitting huge amounts of energy to Earth from space.

    The head of Rosneft also drew attention to the search for alternative options in the field of energy storage. “Alternative types of batteries are appearing, which already offer certain advantages, but are not yet ready for widespread implementation. For example, a sodium-ion battery reduces charging time by 75% and has higher performance at low temperatures, but is several times inferior to existing lithium-ion analogues in energy capacity and service life,” said Igor Sechin.

    “As we can see, we are still very far from the full implementation of all these technologies. Therefore, today the optimal solution is a synthesis of traditional and alternative sources,” the head of Rosneft concluded.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft June 21, 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: Igor Sechin explained how the growth of government debt leads to the decline of the West

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    Interest payments on US government debt are diverting significant budget resources, said Rosneft Chief Executive Officer Igor Sechin during his speech at the Energy Panel at the XXVIII St. Petersburg International Economic Forum.

    He recalled that the predicament in which developed countries find themselves due to the growth of public debt is already reflected in the assessment of their creditworthiness. Thus, in May, Moody’s became the last of the three leading international rating agencies to strip the United States of its highest credit rating.

    “With the growing deficit, interest payments are diverting significant budget resources from the social and defense spheres. Last year, net interest payments on the national debt reached a trillion dollars, which amounted to 14% of all state budget expenditures, exceeded defense expenditures, and is already approaching the amount of healthcare expenditures,” Sechin said.

    The head of Rosneft also turned to history and gave an example of how great powers decline due to excessively high levels of public debt. “The fate of Habsburg Spain in the seventeenth century and monarchical France in the eighteenth, the Ottoman and British empires in the last century fully confirm this theory,” he added.

    “At the end of the 18th century, French rulers experienced for themselves that the fiscal guillotine could very quickly end up as a real guillotine,” Igor Sechin noted. By that time, France had accumulated such a volume of debt that more than half of all government spending was spent on servicing it, which led to an increase in taxes. According to the head of Rosneft, this was one of the main reasons for the Great French Revolution, which, in essence, ensured the transition from a monarchy to a bourgeois parliamentary republic.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft June 21, 2025

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    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Igor Sechin opened the Energy Panel at the SPIEF

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    Chief Executive Officer of PJSC NK Rosneft Igor Sechin presented the key report “Odyssey of the World Economy in Search of the Golden Fleece. New Image of World Energy” at the Energy Panel within the framework of the XXVIII St. Petersburg International Economic Forum.

    The event is attended by Chairman of the Board of Directors of Rosneft Mohammed Bin Saleh Al-Sada, Executive Vice President of the Republic of Venezuela Delcy Rodriguez, Vice President of CNPC Zhang Daowei, Executive Director of Reliance Industries Panda Madhusudana Shiva Prasad, CEO of Pertamina Simon Aloysius Mantiri, President of Schlumberger in Asia Sherif Shohdi, Academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences Alexander Dynkin, Minister of Energy of the Republic of Uzbekistan Jurabek Mirzamakhmudov, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of the non-profit initiative of the Japanese government for the development of low-carbon technologies Nobuo Tanaka, President of TOFS Group David Gadzhimirzaev, as well as representatives of government bodies, major Russian and foreign companies in various industries, scientists, academics, experts and analysts.

    The Energy Panel was moderated by the famous American journalist and RT TV channel host Rick Sanchez.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft June 21, 2025

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    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Nepal Imports Record Number of Electric Vehicles

    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

    KATHMANDU, June 21 (Xinhua) — Nepal imported a record number of four-wheeler electric vehicles in the first 11 months of the current fiscal year 2024-25, the country’s Customs Department said on Friday.

    As of mid-June, the total number of imported electric vehicles was 13,483, of which 10,194 (almost 76 percent) came from China, the agency said.

    By comparison, the country imported a total of 11,701 electric vehicles in the 2023-24 fiscal year.

    Nepal has been actively promoting the use of electric vehicles in recent years, as the country produces surplus hydropower, especially during the monsoon season. By 2030, the government plans to increase the share of electric vehicles in private passenger transport sales to 90 percent and public passenger transport sales to 70 percent, including two-wheelers. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI: $255 Payday Loans Online Same Day No Credit Check Bad Credit Launched by Viva Payday Loans

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DALLAS, June 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Viva Payday Loans, a leader in short-term online lending, today unveiled its $255 payday loans online same day product with an optional no credit check pathway. Designed for Americans facing unexpected expenses from car repairs to medical bills, this service provides a streamlined, digital experience that delivers funds directly to borrowers’ bank accounts, often within hours of approval.

    “Financial emergencies don’t wait for credit scores,” said Maria Delgado, Chief Product Officer at Viva Payday Loans. “Our new $255 payday loans online same day no credit check option empowers individuals regardless of FICO history to access the cash they need without hidden fees or delays.”

    See If You Qualify for a $255 Payday Loan Online Same Day – Apply Today >>

    Bridging Urgent Expenses with $255 Payday Loans Online Same Day No Credit Check

    Economic pressures and rising living costs have left many households one unexpected bill away from hardship. Traditional lenders often require lengthy applications, hard credit pulls, and high minimum loan amount barriers that leave underserved borrowers seeking alternatives. With Viva’s $255 payday loans online same day, applicants complete a simple form in under five minutes, choose the no credit check route if desired, and receive a fast decision based on income and bank history.

    Key Benefits of $255 Payday Loans Online Same Day

    • Rapid Approval & Funding: Most borrowers see funds in their accounts within hours.
    • No Credit Check Option: Applicants opting for payday loans online same day no credit check face no FICO-related inquiries.
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    Financial Inclusivity Through $255 Loans for Bad Credit

    A low credit score shouldn’t bar hardworking Americans from emergency assistance. By focusing approval on recent deposit history and income verification, Viva Payday Loans’ bad credit loans framework ensures that even those with challenging credit backgrounds can secure $255 payday loans online same day. This small-dollar advance offers immediate relief while maintaining clear, upfront disclosures to prevent surprise charges.

    Pairing this service with personal loans for bad credit guaranteed approval up to $1,000, Viva broadens access to responsible borrowing pathways. Underserved borrowers gain a transparent, fair alternative to high-interest, predatory lenders helping bridge cash-flow gaps today and build stronger financial habits for tomorrow.

    Unlock $255 Emergency Cash with No Credit Check – Start Here >>

    Responsible Borrowing and Transparent Terms

    While fast relief is essential, Viva Payday Loans is equally committed to financial wellness:

    • Itemized Cost Breakdown: Every advance includes a clear summary of fees and total repayment.
    • Budgeting Resources: Online calculators and guides help plan timely repayments and avoid additional fees.
    • Income-Focused Eligibility: Approval decisions emphasize banking history over credit score.
    • Data Security: Military-grade encryption protects personal and financial information.

    “Transparency is our cornerstone,” added Delgado. “We want each borrower to fully understand their commitment, so they’re empowered—not pressured—when choosing $255 payday loans online same day no credit check.”

    Expanding Access with Guaranteed Approval Options

    Beyond the flagship $255 offering, Viva Payday Loans partners with a network of licensed U.S. lenders to deliver personal loans for bad credit guaranteed approval. These larger advances up to $1,000 combine flexible terms with straightforward qualification criteria. By removing punitive interest hikes and hard credit pulls, this expanded suite of bad credit loans ensures a continuum of support for borrowers as their needs evolve.

    About Viva Payday Loans

    Viva Payday Loans is an online loan provider in the US dedicated to quick, fair, and secure short-term credit. Leveraging advanced matching algorithms and strict lender vetting, Viva connects millions of Americans with payday loans online same day and installment options tailored to diverse credit profiles. The company’s mission is to foster financial resilience through transparent products and borrower education.

    Media Contact
    Mukesh Bhardwaj
    Email: mukesh@paydayventures.com

    Disclaimer
    Viva Payday Loans is not a lender and does not make credit decisions. Loan approval, rates, and terms are determined by third-party lenders based on applicant eligibility. Borrowers should read all loan terms carefully and only borrow what they can repay. Same-day funding is subject to bank processing timelines and may vary by applicant.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: $255 Payday Loans Online Same Day No Credit Check Bad Credit Launched by Viva Payday Loans

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DALLAS, June 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Viva Payday Loans, a leader in short-term online lending, today unveiled its $255 payday loans online same day product with an optional no credit check pathway. Designed for Americans facing unexpected expenses from car repairs to medical bills, this service provides a streamlined, digital experience that delivers funds directly to borrowers’ bank accounts, often within hours of approval.

    “Financial emergencies don’t wait for credit scores,” said Maria Delgado, Chief Product Officer at Viva Payday Loans. “Our new $255 payday loans online same day no credit check option empowers individuals regardless of FICO history to access the cash they need without hidden fees or delays.”

    See If You Qualify for a $255 Payday Loan Online Same Day – Apply Today >>

    Bridging Urgent Expenses with $255 Payday Loans Online Same Day No Credit Check

    Economic pressures and rising living costs have left many households one unexpected bill away from hardship. Traditional lenders often require lengthy applications, hard credit pulls, and high minimum loan amount barriers that leave underserved borrowers seeking alternatives. With Viva’s $255 payday loans online same day, applicants complete a simple form in under five minutes, choose the no credit check route if desired, and receive a fast decision based on income and bank history.

    Key Benefits of $255 Payday Loans Online Same Day

    • Rapid Approval & Funding: Most borrowers see funds in their accounts within hours.
    • No Credit Check Option: Applicants opting for payday loans online same day no credit check face no FICO-related inquiries.
    • User-Friendly Platform: Mobile-optimized digital form requires minimal information.
    • Upfront Transparency: All fees, APRs, and repayment schedules are presented before acceptance.
    • Flexible Repayment Plans: Borrowers can extend terms or convert to installment loans, reducing rollover risks.

    Financial Inclusivity Through $255 Loans for Bad Credit

    A low credit score shouldn’t bar hardworking Americans from emergency assistance. By focusing approval on recent deposit history and income verification, Viva Payday Loans’ bad credit loans framework ensures that even those with challenging credit backgrounds can secure $255 payday loans online same day. This small-dollar advance offers immediate relief while maintaining clear, upfront disclosures to prevent surprise charges.

    Pairing this service with personal loans for bad credit guaranteed approval up to $1,000, Viva broadens access to responsible borrowing pathways. Underserved borrowers gain a transparent, fair alternative to high-interest, predatory lenders helping bridge cash-flow gaps today and build stronger financial habits for tomorrow.

    Unlock $255 Emergency Cash with No Credit Check – Start Here >>

    Responsible Borrowing and Transparent Terms

    While fast relief is essential, Viva Payday Loans is equally committed to financial wellness:

    • Itemized Cost Breakdown: Every advance includes a clear summary of fees and total repayment.
    • Budgeting Resources: Online calculators and guides help plan timely repayments and avoid additional fees.
    • Income-Focused Eligibility: Approval decisions emphasize banking history over credit score.
    • Data Security: Military-grade encryption protects personal and financial information.

    “Transparency is our cornerstone,” added Delgado. “We want each borrower to fully understand their commitment, so they’re empowered—not pressured—when choosing $255 payday loans online same day no credit check.”

    Expanding Access with Guaranteed Approval Options

    Beyond the flagship $255 offering, Viva Payday Loans partners with a network of licensed U.S. lenders to deliver personal loans for bad credit guaranteed approval. These larger advances up to $1,000 combine flexible terms with straightforward qualification criteria. By removing punitive interest hikes and hard credit pulls, this expanded suite of bad credit loans ensures a continuum of support for borrowers as their needs evolve.

    About Viva Payday Loans

    Viva Payday Loans is an online loan provider in the US dedicated to quick, fair, and secure short-term credit. Leveraging advanced matching algorithms and strict lender vetting, Viva connects millions of Americans with payday loans online same day and installment options tailored to diverse credit profiles. The company’s mission is to foster financial resilience through transparent products and borrower education.

    Media Contact
    Mukesh Bhardwaj
    Email: mukesh@paydayventures.com

    Disclaimer
    Viva Payday Loans is not a lender and does not make credit decisions. Loan approval, rates, and terms are determined by third-party lenders based on applicant eligibility. Borrowers should read all loan terms carefully and only borrow what they can repay. Same-day funding is subject to bank processing timelines and may vary by applicant.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Domestic Violence Stabbing – Alice Springs

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Northern Territory Police are calling for information after a 25-year-old woman was allegedly stabbed multiple times with an edged weapon by her partner in Alice Springs early this morning.

    At 4:43am this morning NT police received information that a woman had been stabbed outside a store on Todd Street.

    CCTV captured a 32-year-old man, who is believed to be known to the woman, stabbing her multiple times, but the footage was not sufficiently clear enough to establish the nature of the weapon used, or the severity of the injuries sustained.

    The offender fled prior to police attendance and the victim got into a vehicle, which was leaving as police arrived.  That vehicle, a white commodore with a white decal across the front windscreen, is believed to be involved in the incident.

    Therefore, the condition of the victim could not be established, however, it is likely the victim has sustained substantial injuries.

    A crime scene was declared and investigations remain ongoing.

    The victim and the offender have now been identified and police are urging anyone who may have witnessed, or who have information about the incident to contact police on 131 444 as soon as possible and quote reference number NTP2500063207

    Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI: MountBay Energy Unlocks Microbial Biofilm Technology to Revolutionize Battery Longevity

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, June 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MountBay Energy has unveiled groundbreaking research on microbial biofilms that could redefine the future of grid-scale energy storage. The study, led by founder Vrushabhraj Tanawade, introduces a bio-integrated insulation method using thermophilic and mesophilic microbial consortia to regulate heat inside battery modules. The results are striking: up to a 22% reduction in internal temperature and a 30% improvement in carbon lifecycle efficiency.

    “This innovation is about biology meeting infrastructure,” says Tanawade. “We’ve discovered how nature’s mechanisms can dramatically extend the life of our clean energy systems.”

    Unlike conventional synthetic cooling solutions, MountBay’s microbial approach is circular, biodegradable, and scalable—opening up new frontiers for climate resilience and fire-risk reduction in hot environments.

    The research aligns perfectly with MountBay’s mission to power the AI economy through clean, sustainable, and advanced infrastructure. It also positions the company as a frontrunner in biological material integration across the energy sector.

    Additionally, MountBay has released a preliminary transformative feasibility report for a Lunar Solar Belt—a continuous solar array on the Moon that can beam uninterrupted, clean energy back to Earth.

    The report outlines how in-situ resource utilization (ISRU), autonomous lunar robotics, and microwave power transmission could enable the construction of a moon-based solar plant by the 2030s. With an energy return on investment (EROI) of 8:1, the system offers a scalable, emission-free solution to humanity’s growing power demands.

    “This is not just an energy project—it’s a civilization-scale investment in global stability,” said Tanawade. “We believe the Moon should be a cooperative utility, not a geopolitical race.”

    MountBay is also proposing a new diplomatic framework—The Earth-Moon Energy Accord (EMEA)—to ensure equitable access, safety, and international cooperation.

    The concept directly supports MountBay’s mission: to push the frontiers of clean power while securing energy independence for AI-driven economies.

    Tanawade is rallying governments, institutions, and innovators to join him. “It’s time for America to lead the most ambitious energy project in human history,” he said.

    Media Contact:

    Vrushabhraj Tanawade

    Founder @ MountBay Energy

    Contact : vvtanawade@gmail.com

    Website: www.mountbayenergy.com

    Linkedin: Linkedin – Vrushabhraj T

    Disclaimer: This press release is provided by MountBay Energy. The statements, views, and opinions expressed are solely those of the provider and do not necessarily reflect those of this media platform or its publisher. Any names or brands mentioned are used for identification purposes only and remain the property of their respective owners. No endorsement or guarantee is made regarding the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information presented. This material is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or professional advice. Readers are encouraged to conduct independent research and consult qualified professionals. The publisher is not liable for any losses, damages, or legal issues arising from the use or publication of this content.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/333636c1-1aa9-478d-aa39-5a2ee5e888e2

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f7e8cd99-3a77-4d34-85e8-a61b334846d3

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI China: Beijing powers China’s commercial space growth

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

    The CERES-1S Y2 carrier rocket lifts off from the Yellow Sea near Rizhao, east China’s Shandong province, May 29, 2024. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]

    Beijing is cementing its position as a national leader in the commercial space sector, with local firms breaking records in rocket launches and satellite technology as the city pushes for global industry prominence.

    “Beijing’s commercial space ecosystem is among the best in China — certainly in the top tier,” said Xia Dongkun, executive president of Beijing-based launch service provider Galactic Energy, during a media tour of the company’s exhibition hall on June 18.

    Galactic Energy has completed 19 successful commercial missions, delivering 81 satellites with various functions into orbit. Its CERES-1 rocket holds the record for the most successful launches among China’s privately developed rockets, underscoring Beijing’s growing commercial space capabilities.

    As the birthplace of China’s space program, Beijing is implementing the 14th Five-Year Plan’s directive to promote the integrated development of strategic emerging industries. 

    The city has established a comprehensive commercial space supply chain, hosting more than half of the country’s core aerospace R&D institutions and over 300 high-tech commercial space enterprises. Of these, 46 were named to the 2024 China Top 100 Commercial Space Companies list, accounting for nearly half of the national total and highlighting Beijing’s leading position in the industry.

    The city has established a distinctive spatial layout known as “Southern Rockets, Northern Satellites.” In the south, areas such as E-Town and Fengtai district have become hubs for commercial rocket manufacturers, including industry leaders Landspace and Galactic Energy, representing more than 70% of China’s commercial launch vehicle companies.

    Meanwhile, Haidian district in the north has developed into the country’s most advanced cluster for satellite manufacturing, boasting a fully developed supply chain for spacecraft production.

    Beijing’s technological achievements continue to set new industry benchmarks. Landspace’s Zhuque-3 test vehicle completed a 10-kilometer vertical takeoff and landing, making it the first Chinese reusable rocket to demonstrate mid-air reignition.

    Galactic Energy launched seven missions in 2023, ranking third globally among commercial space firms. In satellite technology, Galaxy Space carried out Thailand’s first low-Earth orbit broadband satellite internet test in May 2024, marking China’s first overseas deployment of such services.

    On the international stage, Beijing is advancing the Chinese Academy of Sciences’ International Meridian Circle Program, which recently completed its second phase after securing cooperation with 13 overseas institutions. The city also uses platforms like the Zhongguancun Forum’s space sessions to promote global industry dialogue and expand space infrastructure partnerships under the Belt and Road Initiative.

    Following the 14th Five-Year Plan’s call to advance core technologies, the city has launched several initiatives, including establishing the Beijing Reusable Rocket Technology Innovation Center and supporting more than 30 research projects by firms such as Landspace. The city attracted 1 billion yuan ($139 million) in investment for seven commercial space and low-altitude economy firms in 2024 and released 10 initial application scenarios for technologies such as natural resource monitoring and emergency relief.

    Looking ahead, Beijing’s commercial space sector will focus on three key areas. For launch vehicles, the goal is to achieve orbital recovery and reuse of rockets by 2026 and to start developing a super heavy-lift rocket. For satellites, plans include research on a space computing constellation and advances in solar arrays and electric propulsion. The city also aims to boost commercial satellite services in areas such as mobile communications, insurance claims, smart cities and autonomous driving.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Man arrested for aggravated robbery in West Lakes car park

    Source: New South Wales – News

    A man was arrested after allegedly trying to steal a woman’s car at knifepoint at West Lakes this morning.

    About 8.40am on Saturday 21 June, the victim, a woman aged in her 60s, was seated in her parked car in a car park on Bower Road, West Lakes when she was approached by a man.

    The man opened her car door, presented a knife and demanded the car keys.  The woman screamed, alerting witnesses and the suspect ran away.

    It will be alleged he was located a short distance away by patrols.

    Police Dog Bandit and Water Operations Police were called in to search the area to locate items discarded by the offender as he fled the scene.  PD Bandit located a backpack and other items, while divers are searching the canal and surrounds for the knife believed to have been discarded.

    A 19-year-old Semaphore Park man was arrested and charged with aggravated robbery.  He will be interviewed by Western District CIB detectives and has not yet applied for bail.

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Four apprehended after stolen vehicle crash

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Please attribute to Inspector Danny Meade:

    Four people have been apprehended after a vehicle, reported as stolen, crashed in Manukau this afternoon.

    Shortly before 3pm, a Police vehicle sighted a vehicle that was reported as stolen, travelling on Portage Road in Otahuhu.

    The Police helicopter, Eagle, maintained observations of the vehicle as it continued to travel south towards Manukau. The vehicle was not pursued.

    The vehicle was successfully spiked on Great South Road, near Reagan Street, but the vehicle did not come to a stop.

    A short time after the vehicle was spiked, at around 3:20pm, the vehicle collided with a member of the public’s vehicle at the intersection of Great South Road and Cavendish Drive.

    The four occupants of the offending vehicle then fled on foot. Three were quickly apprehended, and a fourth person was located and taken into custody a short distance down the road soon after.

    A member of the public has sustained minor injuries following the crash, no other injuries have been reported.

    Motorists around the Great South Road and Cavendish Drive area are advised to expect delays as the scene of the crash is cleared.

    Enquiries are ongoing and charges are being considered.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Four apprehended after stolen vehicle crashes

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Please attribute to Inspector Danny Meade:

    Four people have been apprehended after a vehicle, reported as stolen, crashed in Manukau this afternoon.

    Shortly before 3pm, a Police vehicle sighted a vehicle that was reported as stolen, travelling on Portage Road in Otahuhu.

    The Police helicopter, Eagle, maintained observations of the vehicle as it continued to travel south towards Manukau. The vehicle was not pursued.

    The vehicle was successfully spiked on Great South Road, near Reagan Street, but the vehicle did not come to a stop.

    A short time after the vehicle was spiked, at around 3:20pm, the vehicle collided with a member of the public’s vehicle at the intersection of Great South Road and Cavendish Drive.

    The four occupants of the offending vehicle then fled on foot. Three were quickly apprehended, and a fourth person was located and taken into custody a short distance down the road soon after.

    A member of the public has sustained minor injuries following the crash, no other injuries have been reported.

    Motorists around the Great South Road and Cavendish Drive area are advised to expect delays as the scene of the crash is cleared.

    Enquiries are ongoing and charges are being considered.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • FIFA Club World Cup: Bayern beat Boca to progress to knockouts

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Bayern Munich rekindled their European pride at the Club World Cup with a gritty 2-1 win over Boca Juniors on Friday, booking their place in the last 16 after a tense and fiery clash.

    In front of a passionate crowd dominated by Boca supporters—who transformed the Hard Rock Stadium into a mini “Bombonera”—the Argentine side fought tooth and nail. But Bayern’s determination prevailed late in the game.

    Harry Kane opened the scoring for the German champions early in the first half, only for Boca to hit back through Miguel Merentiel. With the game hanging in the balance, Michael Olise struck a late winner to send Bayern to the top of Group C with six points, two clear of Benfica. Boca, with just one point, remain in contention and will face Auckland City in their final group game, while Bayern take on Benfica.

    The win was a timely boost for European clubs, who have recently struggled in the tournament, with Porto, PSG, and Chelsea all suffering defeats.

    The match crackled with intensity, particularly in the second half, as Boca pressed high and disrupted Bayern’s rhythm with physical, high-tempo football.

    Bayern started brightly and thought they had taken the lead when Olise’s curling corner found the net, but the goal was ruled out by VAR for a foul on the goalkeeper. The breakthrough came in the 18th minute when a deflected clearance fell to Kane, who calmly slotted the ball into the bottom corner after a cross from Konrad Laimer—his first goal of the tournament after being held scoreless in the 10-0 rout of Auckland City.

    Bayern nearly doubled their lead soon after, as Serge Gnabry sent a ball across the face of goal, but Kingsley Coman missed a golden opportunity to tap in. At the other end, Manuel Neuer made a pair of sharp saves to deny Kevin Zenon, as Boca continued to pose a threat.

    After the break, Boca ramped up their intensity, unsettling Bayern with relentless pressing and spirited tackling. Their efforts paid off in the 66th minute when Merentiel was played through on the right, danced past Josip Stanisic, and beat Neuer with a composed finish—sending the Boca fans into a frenzy.

    But Bayern held their nerve. In the 84th minute, Olise curled a precise shot into the bottom corner after being teed up by Kane, sealing a crucial win and securing their spot in the knockout stages.

    IANS