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  • MIL-OSI China: Xi urges China, Central Asian countries to promote high-quality Belt and Road cooperation 2025-06-18 15:08:08 Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday called on China and Central Asian countries to promote high-quality Belt and Road cooperation and forge ahead toward the goal of building a China-Central Asia community with a shared future under the guidance of the China-Central Asia Spirit.

    Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense

    Chinese President Xi Jinping delivers a keynote speech during the second China-Central Asia Summit in Astana, Kazakhstan, June 17, 2025. The second China-Central Asia Summit was held in Astana on Tuesday. Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev chaired the summit. Xi, Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov, Tajik President Emomali Rahmon, Turkmen President Serdar Berdimuhamedov and Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev attended the summit. (Xinhua/Huang Jingwen)

    ASTANA, June 17 (Xinhua) — Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday called on China and Central Asian countries to promote high-quality Belt and Road cooperation and forge ahead toward the goal of building a China-Central Asia community with a shared future under the guidance of the China-Central Asia Spirit.

    Xi made the remarks in his keynote speech at the second China-Central Asia Summit hosted by Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov, Tajik President Emomali Rahmon, Turkmen President Serdar Berdimuhamedov and Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev also attended the summit.

    Xi pointed out that during their meeting in Xi’an two years ago, they jointly outlined the Xi’an Vision for China-Central Asia cooperation. Two years on, China and Central Asian countries have further deepened and substantiated Belt and Road cooperation, he said, recalling advanced cooperation in various fields.

    The core framework of the China-Central Asia mechanism is largely in place, and the consensus at the first Summit has been implemented across the board, Xi said, adding that the path of cooperation among the countries is steadily widening, and their friendship is blooming ever more brightly.

    Xi stressed that the cooperation between China and Central Asian countries is rooted in more than 2,000 years of friendly exchanges, cemented by solidarity and mutual trust cultivated through more than three decades of diplomatic ties, and taken forward via openness and win-win cooperation of the new era.

    Xi said building on their collective efforts over the years, the six countries have forged a China-Central Asia Spirit of “mutual respect, mutual trust, mutual benefit and mutual assistance for the joint pursuit of modernization through high-quality development.”

    The spirit connotes four aspects of practices. First, Xi said that China and Central Asian countries practice mutual respect and treat each other as equals, and all countries, big or small, are equal, adding that the six countries handle issues through consultation and make decisions by consensus.

    Second, he said that China and Central Asian countries seek to deepen mutual trust and enhance mutual support, firmly support each other in safeguarding independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity and national dignity, and do not do anything harmful to the core interests of any party.

    Third, Xi said China and Central Asian countries pursue mutual benefit and win-win cooperation and strive for common development, view each other as priority partners, and share development opportunities together, adding that they accommodate each other’s interests, and work to build a win-win and symbiotic relationship.

    Fourth, he said China and Central Asian countries help each other in time of need and stand together through thick and thin, supporting each other in choosing development paths suitable to respective national conditions and in taking domestic matters into their own hands, adding that the countries work together to address various risks and challenges, and uphold regional security and stability.

    This China-Central Asia Spirit is an important guideline for their endeavor to carry forward friendship and cooperation from generation to generation, and the six countries should always uphold it and let it shine forever, Xi noted.

    Today, unprecedented changes are unfolding at a faster pace across the globe, thrusting the world into a new state of heightened turbulence and volatility, Xi pointed out, noting that a strong belief in fairness and justice, and an unyielding commitment to mutual benefit and win-win cooperation are the only way to maintain world peace and achieve common development.

    There is no winner in tariff wars or trade wars, and unilateralism, protectionism and hegemonism will surely backfire while hurting others, he noted.

    Maintaining that history should move forward, not backward, and the world should be united, not divided, Xi said humanity must not regress to the law of the jungle, but should instead build a community with a shared future for mankind.

    Xi called on the six countries to act on the China-Central Asia Spirit, and enhance cooperation with renewed vigor and more practical measures.

    To achieve this, he made five points.

    First, China and Central Asian countries should stay committed to the fundamental goal of unity, and always trust and support each other, he said.

    China consistently takes Central Asia as a priority in its neighborhood diplomacy, Xi noted, adding that with a firm belief in an amicable, secure and prosperous neighborhood as well as a strong dedication to amity, sincerity, mutual benefit and inclusiveness, China interacts with Central Asian countries on the basis of equality and sincerity, and the six countries always wish their neighbors well.

    The six countries will sign together a treaty on eternal good-neighborliness, friendship and cooperation to enshrine the principle of everlasting friendship in the form of law, he said, deeming it as a new landmark in the history of the relations of the six countries and a pioneering initiative in China’s diplomatic engagement with its neighbors, which constitutes a milestone for today and a foundation for tomorrow.

    Second, China and Central Asian countries should optimize the cooperation framework to make it more results-oriented, more efficient and more deeply integrated, Xi said.

    Recalling that the six countries have agreed to designate 2025 and 2026 as the Years of High-Quality Development of China-Central Asia Cooperation, he said that all sides should focus the cooperation on smooth trade, industrial investment, connectivity, green mining, agricultural modernization and personnel exchanges, roll out more projects on the ground and foster new quality productive forces.

    He said China has decided to establish three cooperation centers, i.e. on poverty reduction, on education exchange, and on desertification prevention and control, as well as a cooperation platform on smooth trade under the China-Central Asia cooperation framework.

    China supports Central Asian countries in developing livelihood and development projects, Xi said, adding that China will provide 3,000 training opportunities to Central Asian countries in the next two years.

    Third, China and Central Asian countries should develop a security framework for peace, tranquility and solidarity, step up regional security governance, deepen law enforcement and security cooperation, jointly prevent and thwart extreme ideologies, and resolutely fight terrorism, separatism and extremism, so as to maintain peace and stability in the region, Xi said.

    China will do its best to help Central Asian countries combat terrorism and transnational organized crime and safeguard cybersecurity and biosecurity, he said.

    Fourth, China and Central Asian countries should cement the bonds of shared vision, mutual understanding and mutual affection between peoples, he noted, saying that China will enhance cooperation between legislatures, political parties, women, youth, media and think tanks with Central Asian countries, conduct in-depth exchange of governance experience, and is ready to set up more cultural centers, university branches and Luban Workshops in Central Asia to train more high-caliber talent for Central Asian countries.

    China supports deepening subnational cooperation with Central Asia, Xi said, adding that China and Central Asian countries should nurture heart-to-heart connections at central and subnational levels, between official and non-governmental actors, and from adjacent to broader areas.

    Fifth, China and Central Asian countries should uphold a fair and equitable international order and an equal and orderly world structure, stand ready to work with all parties to defend international fairness and justice, oppose hegemonism and power politics, and promote an equal and orderly multipolar world and a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization, Xi said.

    This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, and the 80th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations, he said, recalling that in the strenuous times of war, Chinese and Central Asian peoples supported each other through adversity, and jointly made important contributions to the cause of justice of humanity.

    He also noted the need to promote the correct view of history, defend the fruits of the victory of World War II, uphold the UN-centered international system, and provide more stability and certainty for world peace and development.

    Xi pointed out that China is building a great modern socialist country in all respects and advancing the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation on all fronts through Chinese modernization.

    No matter how the international situation changes, China will remain unwavering in opening up to the outside world, he said, noting that China is ready to embrace higher-quality cooperation and deepen the integration of interests with Central Asian countries, so as to achieve common development and strive for new progress in China-Central Asia cooperation.

    Tokayev and the other four Central Asian leaders unanimously stated that the China-Central Asia mechanism has become an important platform for promoting dialogue and cooperation, as well as for advancing the economic and social development of Central Asian countries.

    In a world full of uncertainties, the strategic significance of the mechanism has become increasingly prominent, and China’s growing prosperity and strength are benefiting its neighboring countries, they said, noting that China is a strategic partner and a true friend that Central Asian countries can always count on.

    The Central Asian countries highly value the model of cooperation with China based on mutual respect, equality and mutual benefit, and look forward to deepening all-round cooperation with China and expanding trade and investment, the five leaders added.

    They also expressed the hope to jointly pursue high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, promote cooperation in such fields as industry, agriculture, science and technology, infrastructure, new energy and connectivity, strengthen regional security collaboration, and enhance people-to-people and cultural exchanges in fields like culture, education and tourism.

    The leaders of the five Central Asian countries expressed their intention to build the China-Central Asia mechanism into a model of regional cooperation, share development and prosperity, jointly promote peace and stability, and build a closer community with a shared future.

    The five parties highly appreciate China’s constructive role in international and regional affairs, and actively support the concept of building a community with a shared future for mankind, as well as the three major global initiatives proposed by President Xi.

    They also expressed the willingness to closely coordinate and cooperate with China to firmly safeguard free trade and the multilateral trading system, and jointly defend international equity and justice.

    During the summit, Xi and the heads of state of the Central Asian nations signed the Astana Declaration of the second China-Central Asia Summit, and a treaty on eternal good-neighborliness, friendship and cooperation.

    The meeting also announced the signing of 12 cooperation agreements regarding the Belt and Road cooperation, facilitation of personnel exchanges, green mining, trade, connectivity, industry and customs.

    At the summit, China signed multiple sister city agreements with the five Central Asian countries, thus the pairs of sister cities between the two sides have exceeded 100.

    Xi and other leaders also witnessed the inauguration of three China-Central Asia cooperation centers and a trade platform, namely the China-Central Asia poverty reduction cooperation center, the China-Central Asia education exchange cooperation center, the China-Central Asia desertification prevention and control cooperation center, as well as the China-Central Asia smooth trade cooperation platform.

    All parties also agreed that China will host the third China-Central Asia Summit in 2027.

    Chinese President Xi Jinping, Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov, Tajik President Emomali Rahmon, Turkmen President Serdar Berdimuhamedov and Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev pose for a group photo in Astana, Kazakhstan, June 17, 2025. The second China-Central Asia Summit was held in Astana on Tuesday. Tokayev chaired the summit. Xi, Japarov, Rahmon, Berdimuhamedov and Mirziyoyev attended the summit. (Xinhua/Xie Huanchi)

    Chinese President Xi Jinping walks into the venue of the second China-Central Asia Summit in Astana, Kazakhstan, June 17, 2025. The second China-Central Asia Summit was held in Astana on Tuesday. Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev chaired the summit. Xi, Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov, Tajik President Emomali Rahmon, Turkmen President Serdar Berdimuhamedov and Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev attended the summit. (Xinhua/Ding Lin)

    Chinese President Xi Jinping shakes hands with Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev in Astana, Kazakhstan, June 17, 2025. The second China-Central Asia Summit was held in Astana on Tuesday. Tokayev chaired the summit. Xi, Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov, Tajik President Emomali Rahmon, Turkmen President Serdar Berdimuhamedov and Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev attended the summit. (Xinhua/Xie Huanchi)

    Chinese President Xi Jinping delivers a keynote speech during the second China-Central Asia Summit in Astana, Kazakhstan, June 17, 2025. The second China-Central Asia Summit was held in Astana on Tuesday. Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev chaired the summit. Xi, Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov, Tajik President Emomali Rahmon, Turkmen President Serdar Berdimuhamedov and Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev attended the summit. (Xinhua/Yin Bogu)

    Chinese President Xi Jinping, Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov, Tajik President Emomali Rahmon, Turkmen President Serdar Berdimuhamedov and Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev witness inauguration of the China-Central Asia poverty reduction cooperation center, the China-Central Asia education exchange cooperation center, the China-Central Asia desertification control cooperation center and the China-Central Asia trade facilitation cooperation platform in Astana, Kazakhstan, June 17, 2025. The second China-Central Asia Summit was held in Astana on Tuesday. Tokayev chaired the summit. Xi, Japarov, Rahmon, Berdimuhamedov and Mirziyoyev attended the summit. (Xinhua/Yin Bogu)

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Beyond blind boxes: What’s behind Labubu’s global craze?

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

    A resident takes photos of a Labubu toy at the Taipa exhibition area of “POP MART MACAO CITYWALK” in south China’s Macao, June 6, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    In the pre-dawn chill outside a New York mall, young fans camped overnight, eager to get their hands on a Labubu doll. In Paris, shoppers carrying Labubu shopping bags posed for photos in front of the Louvre. In Seoul’s Myeongdong shopping area, long queues formed not for K-pop stars, but for Labubu. Its theme song echoed in Spanish streets.

    At the center of this global craze is a small, sharp-eared figure with jagged teeth and an ambiguous expression — Labubu, a curious creation from China that is capturing the imagination of global youth.

    The frenzy surrounding Labubu has sparked long queues, thriving secondary markets, and rental services, with some transactions standing out due to their scale. A one-of-a-kind mint-green, human-sized Labubu sold for 1.08 million yuan (about 150,531 U.S. dollars) at a Beijing auction last week, setting a new record for the blind box toy as it transitions from pop craze to coveted collectible.

    From “world factory” to “global creative center”

    This nine-toothed, punk-cute creature from Pop Mart is more than just a toy. It has become a cultural and commercial force. In 2024, Pop Mart’s “The Monsters” series swept through global markets, generating over 3 billion yuan in revenue, a 726.6 percent increase from the previous year and the company’s most successful IP to date.

    It is rare for a comic or toy IP to break the culture wall and be embraced by both Asian cultures as well as mainstream Western pop stars and sports stars, according to Jessie Xu, an analyst at Deutsche Bank, which significantly raised its target price for Pop Mart shares on the strength of Labubu’s performance.

    Labubu’s rise marks more than a viral toy trend: it signals a broader shift in China’s role on the global stage. No longer just a manufacturing hub, China is emerging as a source of original cultural exports. “Labubu’s success marks China’s transition from ‘world factory’ to ‘global creative center’,” noted a recent commentary on the website of China’s Qiushi Journal, the flagship magazine of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, reflecting on the nation’s economic evolution beyond low-cost production.

    What makes this spiky-toothed imp resonate from Seoul to Spain? Designed by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung, Labubu defies the traditional traits that are associated with being cute. With large ears and a fixed grin featuring nine pointy teeth, its oddball charm resonates with a young generation that sees itself in its mischievous, soft-hearted persona.

    “Labubu’s image aligns closely with the way today’s consumers express themselves,” said Yu Yiqi, an associate researcher at Fudan University, adding that its blend of mild rebellion — defiant yet harmless — has made this unconventional IP more recognizable, accepted, and embraced by consumers.

    Pop Mart amplified Labubu’s appeal on a global scale. In Thailand, the furry doll was granted the title of “Amazing Thailand Experience Explorer” by tourism authority. In Singapore, a Merlion-themed edition sold out almost instantly. What began as a toy has evolved into a kind of cultural conduit, quietly connecting young people across borders.

    Toys themed on Labubu, a popular furry doll from Chinese toy company Pop Mart, are pictured during the opening ceremoy of a new offline store of Pop Mart in Bangkok, Thailand, July 5, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    The long game of patience, precision 

    Labubu’s explosion wasn’t overnight.

    “In 2010, Beijing got its first Pop Mart store. I was 23,” 38-year-old Pop Mart’s CEO Wang Ning recalled. Early days were fraught. With little recognition, the startup struggled to secure collaborations with established IPs.

    Yet it developed a simple method to spot potential hits. At art fairs, artist booths with the longest lines were seen as a clear sign of consumer interest. By gathering strong creative talent early on, the little-known company quickly made a name for itself.

    As the youngest self-made founder on Forbes’ 2024 list of Best CEOs in China, Wang’s age has led many to view Pop Mart as a young company. In reality, it has been quietly building its presence in the designer toy space for 15 years. Since launching its international expansion in 2018, Pop Mart has steadily advanced its global strategy, with operations now spanning nearly 100 countries and regions.

    Labubu’s success would not have been possible without meticulous iteration. Pop Mart and Lung spent a considerable amount of time refining Labubu, from the initial “Forest Concert” series to the recently released “Big into Energy” series, gradually shaping its “punk-cute” identity into a distinct cultural symbol.

    The toymaker is not alone in embracing the long game. The animated blockbuster Ne Zha 2 took five and a half years to complete, with more than 4,000 people involved and nearly 2,000 visual effects shots. The hit video game Black Myth: Wukong was developed for over six years, with its creators pouring vast artistic resources into delivering high-end visuals and performance for players.

    Precision matters. Wang fixated on the smallest details, from store layouts designed to guide browsing flow, to display case placement intended to catch the eye, and maintenance schedules aimed at enhancing the customer experience. “Innovation is the fundamental guarantee for enterprises to withstand storms and achieve sustainable development,” the Qiushi website commentary noted, underscoring the relentless focus behind Labubu’s success.

    Made in China, designed for the world 

    Labubu’s rise to becoming a globally coveted product is rooted in China’s vast manufacturing ecosystem. “As a global manufacturing powerhouse, China has a complete industrial chain and a mature industrial environment, offering significant comparative advantages,” Wang said.

    More than 70 percent of Pop Mart’s production comes from factories in Dongguan, south China’s Guangdong Province, the heart of China’s toy manufacturing industry. The city is home to some 4,000 toy companies and 1,500 supporting suppliers. It is responsible for producing a quarter of the world’s animation merchandise and 85 percent of China’s designer toys.

    When Labubu introduced an innovative blend of vinyl and plush materials, factories in Dongguan delivered with remarkable precision. They even created separate molds for each individual component. “If you can make Pop Mart, you can make any designer toy in the world,” a manufacturing partner said.

    As a leading arts hub in Asia and a regular host of Art Basel, Hong Kong provided the artistic foundation. It was here that Wang discovered talented illustrators like Lung. This model of collaboration between art and manufacturing has propelled China’s designer toy industry from contract production to value creation.

    Customers purchase products at a POP MART store in London, Britain, on May 21, 2025. The trendy toys recently launched by Chinese pop culture brand POP MART have drawn fans worldwide, which stands as a prime example of a new wave of innovative Chinese products, revolutionizing global perspectives on “Made in China” within the toy industry. [Photo/Xinhua]

    China’s pro-consumption policies have provided strong tailwinds for the designer toy industry. A national action plan released in March calls for cultivating “trendy domestic goods,” while the Ministry of Commerce has been promoting “IP plus consumption” by developing creative retail spaces and cultural landmarks. The country’s designer toy market, valued at roughly 60 billion yuan in 2023, is projected to reach 110.1 billion yuan by 2026, with annual growth rate exceeding 20 percent.

    Greater openness is also fueling the cultural exchange crucial to IP growth. China has expanded its unilateral visa-free access program, allowing travelers from 47 countries to stay for up to 30 days. This has drawn a growing number of international visitors seeking firsthand experiences of Chinese culture. The immersive contact not only deepens global understanding of China’s lifestyle, but also fosters an environment where homegrown IPs like Labubu can flourish and succeed on the international stage.

    Yet, white-hot demand breeds challenges. Frenzied queues in London reportedly led to scuffles, forcing Pop Mart to briefly suspend UK Labubu sales. Similar safety concerns prompted a temporary halt in the Republic of Korea.

    Pop Mart has publicly distanced itself from speculative frenzy in the second-hand market, reiterating that the company has never — and will never — participate in any form of resale activities involving collectible toys. It also urged consumers to approach purchases with rational expectations.

    Though often attributed to psychological triggers like unpredictable rewards and fear of missing out, the fascination with blind boxes, according to Wang, stems from something deeper.

    “What really matters is the designer toy, the IP, and the story behind blind boxes,” he said, noting that Pop Mart is in the business of trendy designer toys, not just surprise packaging. “It’s not the blind box that hooks people — it’s the characters inside, which represent some of China’s most attractive consumer IPs.”

    “Not every IP will become a hit,” said Yu. “What matters is that Pop Mart takes a systematic approach to selecting, managing, and supporting IPs, grounded in its role as a trendsetter. Trends rise and fall, but a company needs a steady pipeline to consistently deliver value and meet consumer demand.”

    From scouting more than 350 artists worldwide to growing 13 IPs with each’s annual revenue exceeding 100 million yuan, Pop Mart has a clear goal: to keep its IPs alive and constantly evolving. Once aspiring to be “Disney of China,” the company is now working to become “Pop Mart of the world.”

    “Labubu isn’t Pop Mart’s first red-hot IP,” Yu said. “Nor will it be the last.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China reports rapid growth in green electricity trading

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

    China’s green electricity trading volume surpassed 220 billion kilowatt-hours in the first five months of this year, marking a year-on-year increase of nearly 50 percent, according to industry data released at a forum on Wednesday.

    According to statistics from the China Electricity Council, with China’s new energy capacity and output steadily rising, new-sources power supply is now playing an increasingly active and competitive role in the electricity market.

    In 2024, the nationwide market-based trading volume of new energy electricity surpassed 1 trillion kilowatt-hours, accounting for 55 percent of the total new energy production, according to the council.

    China’s market-oriented electricity trading volume surged from 1.1 trillion kilowatt-hours in 2016 to 6.2 trillion in 2024, with its share in total electricity consumption rising from 17 percent to 63 percent, marking a significant shift in electricity resource allocation toward a market-driven system.

    Yang Kun, executive vice chairman of the China Electricity Council, said that in recent years, growing demand for green consumption in China has driven rapid expansion in green electricity trading, underscoring the environmental value of green energy.

    The council will continue its efforts in promoting the green and low-carbon transition in the energy and electricity sector, Yang added. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: River Plate cruise, Dortmund and Inter draw at Club World Cup

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

    European sides were left frustrated at the FIFA Club World Cup on Tuesday as Borussia Dortmund and Inter Milan shared the points with Fluminense and Monterrey, respectively.

    South America’s River Plate claimed the day’s most emphatic victory with a 3-1 defeat of Urawa Red Diamonds while Mamelodi Sundowns edged Ulsan 1-0.

    Marcel Sabitzer (R) of Borussia Dortmund vies for the ball during the Group F match between Fluminense FC of Brazil and Borussia Dortmund of Germany at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 in New Jersey, the United States, June 17, 2025. (Xinhua/Wu Xiaoling)

    In New Jersey, Brazil’s Fluminense was left to rue its profligacy in a goalless draw with Germany’s Borussia Dortmund.

    The Rio de Janeiro outfit looked more likely to score at MetLife Stadium but could not find a way past Swiss goalkeeper Gregor Kobel, who made a series of fine saves.

    “We showed that we are a great club and that we are going to be difficult opponents for anyone,” Fluminense’s Colombian midfielder Jhon Arias told reporters.

    “We were aware of Borussia’s quality and the level of European football, but we were superior for most of the match. That gives us peace of mind and confidence to continue playing like we did today.”

    Argentina’s River Plate began its Group E campaign with a 3-1 victory over Japan’s Urawa Red Diamonds in Seattle.

    The Buenos Aires club opened the scoring when Facundo Colidio timed his run to perfection to meet Marcos Acuna’s cross with a thumping header from the edge of the six-yard box.

    Sebastian Driussi doubled the advantage shortly after, nodding home following a defensive miscue.

    Urawa pulled a goal back through Yusuke Matsuo, who converted from the penalty spot after Takuro Kaneko was brought down by Acuna.

    Substitute Maximiliano Meza restored the two-goal cushion, rising to meet Acuna’s corner with a bullet header that beat goalkeeper Shusaku Nishikawa at his near post.

    “The most important thing was to win, but we know we have to improve,” River Plate manager Marcelo Gallardo said.

    “We suffered from nerves, which is understandable. But our upcoming matches are going to be more demanding and we have to be ready.”

    In Orlando, a first-half goal from Iqraam Rayners gave South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns a 1-0 win over South Korean side Ulsan.

    Rayners ran onto Lucas Ribeiro’s inch-perfect pass before calmly toe-poking a right-footed shot into the far corner.

    “In this competition, it’s not easy to achieve victories,” Sundowns manager Miguel Cardoso said. “Today, I think we released a lot of energy in the right way.”

    In the day’s late match at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, Inter Milan was held to a 1-1 draw by Monterrey after Lautaro Martinez cancelled out an early Sergio Ramos goal.

    The Mexican side struck first when former Real Madrid defender Ramos rose highest to send a header past Argentine goalkeeper Esteban Andrada after Oliver Torres’ corner.

    Martinez leveled just before halftime, combining with Carlos Augusto to slot home from point-blank range.

    The Italian Serie A giants dominated possession after the break but were denied by Monterrey’s disciplined defensive block. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: A million guests and thousands of excursions: what attracts visitors to the Smart City pavilion at VDNKh

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Pavilion “Smart City” at VDNKh has been introducing Muscovites and tourists to the city’s key digital projects for over eight years. Over the entire period, it has been visited by over a million people, Natalia Sergunina, Deputy Mayor of Moscow.

    “This year, the pavilion receives an average of 20,000 visitors per month — a quarter more than in 2024. Many are happy to participate in online events: master classes, programming classes, and also attend in-person courses in 3D modeling, robotics, and other areas,” said Natalia Sergunina.

    The exhibition consists of eight thematic zones reflecting different spheres of life in the capital. The stands allow you to learn why Moscow needs a digital twin, how artificial intelligence helps doctors, and where navigators get information about traffic congestion from.

    One of the largest spaces is “Moscow is More Than a City”. It unites projects in such areas as culture, business and tourism. In another section, you can go on a virtual journey into the past – for example, see what the Northern River Terminal, Tverskaya Street and VDNKh were like.

    Last year, the pavilion hosted an exhibition “Digital Technologies of Moscow: for the 30th Anniversary of Runet”Children and adults are invited to study interactive timeline, dedicated to the history of the digitalization of the capital, to get to know modern city online services and services in more detail, and also to try your hand at computer games that were popular 30 years ago.

    As specified by the capital Department of Information Technology, the exhibition at VDNKh is regularly updated. Currently, the pavilion has 77 objects and stands. It is open from 10:00 to 20:00 from Tuesday to Sunday inclusive, admission is free. Since its opening, almost 11 thousand excursions have been held here.

    AI, VR and AR: what technologies introduce tourists to MoscowThe Whole Family at VDNKh: Which Museums Can Be Visited for Free at the Country’s Main Exhibition

    Provision of socially significant services in electronic form and development of e-government infrastructure correspond to the objectives of the national project “Data Economy and Digital Transformation of the State” and the Moscow regional project “Digital Public Administration”.

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

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

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

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/155386073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: From June 20, trains heading towards the center will temporarily not stop at the Pererva station of the MCD-2

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    From June 20, trains heading towards the center will temporarily not stop at the Pererva station of the second Moscow Central Diameter (MCD-2). This is necessary to create a modern city station. The work is being carried out by JSC Russian Railways together with the Moscow Government team.

    Passengers will be able to use alternative routes. Thus, in order to leave the Pererva platform towards the center of Moscow, it is necessary to go from the platform towards Podolsk to the Kuryanovo station and transfer to the oncoming train for free.

    To get to Pererva from Podolsk, you need to go to Depot station and also change to a train in the opposite direction. Both stations have one island platform, so to change you just need to cross from one side to the other. Trains in the direction of Podolsk will run as usual.

    In order for passengers to quickly get their bearings and plan their routes, posters with various travel options will be placed at MCD-2 stations.

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

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

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

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/155393073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Premises in the Lanceray house have been put up for city auction

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Investors can buy four rooms in a historic building in the Krasnoselsky District. This was reported by the Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Urban Development Policy and Construction Vladimir Efimov.

    “Investors can purchase four premises with a total area of about two thousand square meters in the Lanceray house on Milyutinsky Lane. The corresponding objects are already available for purchase on the investment portal. Another premises in this architectural monument are planned to be put up for auction in the near future. The building has the status of a cultural heritage site of regional significance. The new owners will have to carry out restoration and reconstruction work, as well as use the premises in accordance with the security obligation to ensure the protection of the architectural heritage of the capital,” Vladimir Efimov noted.

    The cultural heritage site is located at the address: Milyutinsky Lane, Building 20/2, Building 1. The building in the Gothic Art Nouveau style began to be built in 1915 under the direction of architect Valentin Dubovsky. After the October Revolution, the house was completed according to the design of architect Alexander Kalmykov.

    “The largest of the premises put up for auction has an area of over 1.7 thousand square meters and occupies the basement of an eight-story residential building. The sizes of the other three objects vary from 72.6 to 129.3 square meters. The building is located on the second line of the Boulevard Ring, a three-minute walk from the Turgenevskaya metro station. The area with developed public and business activity will be a good place to open a store, office or business in the restaurant and hotel industry,” she noted.

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

    As the head of the Moscow City Department for Competition Policy said Kirill Purtov, the acceptance of applications for participation in electronic auctions for the purchase of four properties in Milyutinsky Lane will end on July 10, 14 and 16, depending on the lot. The auctions will take place on July 22, 23 and 25, respectively.

    All information about the premises put up for auction is presented on the capital’s investment portal. You can learn more about them, study the lot documentation and the rules for conducting auctions in the section “Property from the city”.

    The development of electronic services for entrepreneurs is carried out within the framework of the national project “Data Economy”.

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

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

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

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/155377073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ21: Resumption of public rental housing units and Well-off Tenants Policies

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by the Hon Elizabeth Quat and a written reply by the Secretary for Housing, Ms Winnie Ho, in the Legislative Council today (June 18):
     
    Question:
     
         According to government information, 15 000-odd public rental housing (PRH) units were recovered by the Housing Department for various reasons in 2023, which was 55 per cent more than the annual number of about 10 000 units in the past. Regarding the recovery of PRH units and the Well-off Tenants Policies, will the Government inform this Council of the following information in the past five financial years:
     
    (1) the number of PRH units recovered each year for the following reasons:
    (i) death of principal tenants or principal tenants being admitted to residential care homes;
    (ii) principal tenants having purchased subsidised sale flats;
    (iii) tenants moving out due to breach of tenancy agreements (e.g. ‍accruing 16 points within two years under the Marking Scheme for Estate Management Enforcement or defaulting on rent payment);
    (iv) tenants moving out due to failure or refusal to return the declaration form on income and assets as required;
    (v) tenants moving out as their family income/total household net asset value exceeded the limits prescribed under the Well-off Tenants Policies;
    (vi) tenants were asked to move out as their household members owned domestic properties in Hong Kong;
    (vii) voluntary surrender of units by tenants (including moving to other regions/countries, moving to other residences, or for unknown reasons);
    (viii) tenants moving out upon application for transfer; and
    (ix) other reasons;
     
    (2) the number of recovered PRH units used for allocation to applicants on the PRH Waiting List each year;
     
    (3) the number of Notices-to-quit (NTQs) issued by the Hong Kong Housing Authority (HA) to PRH tenants each year and, among them, the number of tenants who lodged appeals in this regard, together with a breakdown by the outcome of the appeals (e.g. ‍cancellation of NTQs, amendment of NTQs and setting of conditions for the tenants lodging appeals to rectify the violations, as well as unsuccessful appeals);
     
    (4) the number of cases received by the HA in which applications for granting of new tenancy agreements were made by authorised members of the units due to the death or moving out of the original principle tenants and, among such cases, the number of those which were approved and rejected; among the approved cases, the number of those in which the PRH units involved were granted approval for addition of household members to the tenancy in the past three years;
     
    (5) the number of PRH tenants who had successfully applied for deletion of household members from the tenancy each year and, among them, the number of those who were well-off tenants; and
     
    (6) the respective numbers of PRH tenants who were required under the Well-off Tenants Policies to pay (i) 1.5 times net rent plus rates and (ii) double net rent plus rates each year?
     
    Reply:

    President,
     
         In response to the questions raised by the Hon Elizabeth Quat, our reply is as follows:

    (1) In the past five financial years (i.e. 2020/21 to 2024/25), the numbers of public rental housing (PRH) units recovered by the Hong Kong Housing Authority (HA), categorised by reasons for recovery, are listed in Annex 1.
     
    (2) Based on the established allocation policies and programmes, the HA allocates newly completed and refurbished recovered PRH units to meet the needs of applicants under various categories. We will allocate most of the units to PRH applicants and closely monitor the actual allocation figures of other categories (e.g. Compassionate Rehousing) to ensure that any units in excess of the estimated demand under other categories would be allocated to PRH applicants by the end of the year. In the past five financial years, the actual numbers of recovered PRH units allocated to PRH applicants and applicants under other categories are tabulated in Annex 2.
     
    (3) In the past five financial years, the numbers of Notices-to-quit issued by the HA, the numbers of appeal cases received by the Appeal Panel (Housing), and the numbers of appeal cases heard by the Appeal Panel (Housing) as well as the rulings are set out by category in Annex 3.
     
    (4) According to the HA’s existing Policy on Grant of New Tenancy (GNT), upon the death or moving out of the principal tenant of a PRH unit, the tenancy can be granted to his/her spouse who has been listed in the tenancy. If there is no surviving spouse listed in the tenancy, one of the authorised family members currently living in the unit can be granted a new tenancy, provided that the Comprehensive Means Test and Domestic Property Test set at the level of Well-off Tenants Policies are passed. In the past five financial years, there were approximately 32 000 GNT cases approved upon the death or moving out of the original principal tenant. The Housing Department (HD) does not keep statistics on the number of rejected applications for GNT and the number of approved GNT cases which involved addition of household members.
     
    (5) In the past five financial years, the HA approved an average of about 44 000 cases per year on the deletion of family members from PRH tenancies. Among these cases, around 16 700 cases arose from death or admission to elderly homes, while the remaining of about 27 300 cases resulted from moving out or other reasons. The HD does not keep statistics on the number of aforesaid cases which involved “well-off tenants”.
     
    (6) In the past five financial years, the numbers of PRH tenants under the HA required to pay 1.5 or double net rent plus rates are listed in Annex 4.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Lufthansa baggage collection and Check-in service now also available in the greater Cologne area

    Source: Lufthansa Group

    Lufthansa is further expanding its innovative baggage collection and check-in service for its passengers. In cooperation with its technology partner ‘Airportr’, Lufthansa already offers this convenient service to all travelers departing from Frankfurt. As of today, the service is also available to passengers traveling to Frankfurt Airport by train from the Cologne and Siegburg/Bonn areas. In addition, travelers with Discover Airlines can now also enjoy this innovation – both in the Frankfurt and Cologne areas.

    The idea is simple and convenient: passengers can have their suitcases and luggage collected from their home or hotel. The luggage is sealed, brought securely to the airport and checked in there. Travelers receive real-time updates via a personalized tracking link and a digital baggage tag receipt. Passengers can travel to the airport conveniently and without heavy luggage and go straight to the security checkpoint – they only collect their checked baggage at their destination.

    The convenient premium service saves time, is comfortable and makes travel easier, especially by public transport.

    Interested guests can book the offer via https://www.lufthansa.com/de/de/prepare-for-your-trip/baggage  up to 36 hours before departure. The service has been available to customers from the greater Frankfurt, Mannheim, Heidelberg, Hanau, Aschaffenburg, Wiesbaden, Mainz, Darmstadt and Bensheim areas since February. With immediate effect, passengers at Lufthansa Express Rail locations in Cologne and Siegburg/Bonn can also take advantage of the service: the service region has been extended to include the greater Cologne, Bonn, Leverkusen, Hürth and Brühl areas. The baggage collection service is available from as little as 29 euros, with prices varying depending on location and collection time.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Environmental justice Fashion waste from top UK brands found polluting endangered turtles’ habitat in Ghana Discarded clothes from Next, Asda and M&S found in protected wetlands threatened by fast-growing waste dumps Clothes discarded by UK consumers and exported to Ghana have been found in a… by Stefano Gelmini June 18, 2025

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    Discarded clothes from Next, Asda and M&S found in protected wetlands threatened by fast-growing waste dumps

    Clothes discarded by UK consumers and exported to Ghana have been found in a huge new dumpsite growing inside internationally protected wetlands, an Unearthed and Greenpeace Africa investigation reveals. 

    Stills and footage of the waste dumps and the UK-branded clothing available here.

    Unearthed reporters have found garments from UK high-street brands Next, George at Asda, and Marks & Spencer inside the protected nature site home to rare birds and three species of turtles.

    The clothes were located at or close to two open-air waste dumps that have recently appeared inside the wetlands. Clothing items from M&S, Zara, H&M, and Primark were also found at a sprawling third dump just on a riverbank just outside the nature reserve, from where fashion waste often floats downstream, polluting the wetlands.

    Scientists are concerned about the impact on local wildlife of the microplastics and chemicals released from textile waste. Locals complain that their fishing nets, waterways and beaches are clogged with synthetic fast fashion exported to Ghana from the UK and Europe.

    Ghana is the world’s largest importer of used clothing, with 15 million items of discarded garments arriving each week [1]. The UK sent more fashion waste to Ghana last year – 57,000 tonnes according to UN trade data – than to any other country except the UAE [2]. But local officials estimate about 40% of each bale is unusable – torn, stained, or unsuitable for the climate. 

    This overspill has overwhelmed Accra, resulting in new waste dumps appearing just outside the capital. Unearthed reporters found two fast-growing tips inside a critical biodiversity area, the Densu Delta, designated a “Ramsar site”: a wetland of “international importance” under the Convention on Wetlands. One of the dumps, Glefe, has been established for just four years, according to Google Earth historical images, and it already looms taller than a two-storey building in places. The second, Akkaway, is less than a year old but rapidly expanding.

    The protected nature site provides a habitat for birds such as rare roseate terns, which migrate from the UK, and curlew sandpipers, which visit from the Arctic tundra. The endangered leatherback and green turtles lay their eggs on the conservation area’s beach, as does the Olive Ridley turtle, known for nesting en masse on the same beach where it hatched [3]. 

    Local people rely on the ecosystem for fishing and salt production. Unearthed has spoken to local fishermen who describe hauling in textile waste in their nets and blame it for a decline in fish stocks.

    Commenting on the findings, Greenpeace UK’s plastic campaigner Laura Burley said:

    “It’s heartbreaking to see a protected nature site turning into a waste dump because of our addiction to fast fashion. A dress designed to be worn just once or twice before being thrown away could pose a threat to rare birds and marine turtles in these protected wetlands for decades to come, while also harming people’s livelihoods. And with the majority of these garments made of plastic fibres, our throwaway clothes are adding to the plastic pollution choking our oceans. The UK government should force fashion retailers to take some responsibility for the waste they create while backing strong targets to cut plastic production in the UN Global Plastics Treaty.”

    Dr Jones Quartey, a wetland ecologist at the University of Ghana, told Unearthed that disposing of textiles in wetlands could cause irreparable harm. “This is dangerous – more so when we don’t know what chemicals are in the textile waste,” he said. “The bioaccumulation and biomagnification of microplastics in aquatic organisms and humans could pose risks such as physical damage, chemical exposure and disruption of biological processes.”

    When contacted by Unearthed, the fashion labels acknowledged that the industry faces challenges around processing textile waste. M&S, George, and Primark said they run “take-back” schemes to help address the issue. H&M, Zara, and George said they would support an extended producer responsibility framework to hold labels accountable for their products’ end-of-life impact.  

    Read the full investigation here.

    ENDS

    Contact: Greenpeace UK news team at press.uk@greenpeace.org and on 020 7865 8255

    Stills and footage of the waste dumps and UK-branded clothes, as well as interviews with local people, can be downloaded here.

    Notes

    1. From a Greenpeace Africa report: https://www.greenpeace.org/africa/en/press/56381/fast-fashion-slow-poison-new-report-exposes-toxic-impact-of-global-textile-waste-in-ghana/
    2. UN trade data:
      https://comtradeplus.un.org/TradeFlow?Frequency=A&Flows=X&CommodityCodes=6309&Partners=all&Reporters=826&period=2024&AggregateBy=none&BreakdownMode=plu
    3. https://ghanawildlife.org/densu.html

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Hilton to Triple its Presence in Africa to More Than 160 Hotels

    • Hilton expects to open more than 100 hotels in the coming years in markets including Ghana, Benin, Nigeria, Angola and Madagascar
    • Most recent hotel openings include Canopy by Hilton Cape Town Longkloof, Hampton by Hilton Sandton Grayston and DoubleTree by Hilton Addis Ababa Airport
    • Hilton to make its Ghana debut later this year with the opening of Hilton Accra Cantonments
    • Hilton is currently hiring for 600 new hospitality jobs in Africa and expects to create 18,000 new positions as it expands its portfolio.

    Coinciding with Future Hospitality Summit Africa 2025, Hilton (NYSE: HLT) today announced plans to almost triple its presence in Africa to more than 160 hotels trading in the coming years. Across its portfolio of market-leading brands, Hilton expects to open more than 100 hotels on the continent, supporting Africa’s burgeoning hospitality sector and creating approximately 18,000 jobs for local people.

    Carlos Khneisser, chief development officer, Middle East & Africa, Hilton, said, “We are thrilled to announce several new hotel agreements which significantly expand our footprint in Africa, a continent brimming with potential and opportunity. Our development strategy underscores our commitment to supporting Africa’s hospitality sector as we partner with owners to grow our footprint, deliver exceptional stays for our customers and create jobs for local people. Africa offers incredible opportunity, from thriving business hubs to vibrant cultures, wildlife, and natural landscapes. We are excited to unveil a host of new destinations building on Hilton’s legacy of hospitality across Africa for over 65 years.”  

    Hilton Debuts in Angola

    Hilton has made its Angolan debut with the signing of three properties – two in the capital city of Luanda under its flagship Hilton Hotels & Resorts brand and affordable and upscale Hilton Garden Inn brand, as well as one in Cabinda with a property under its award-winning DoubleTree by Hilton brand.

    Hilton Luanda Hotel Godinho

    Hilton has signed Hilton Luanda Hotel Godinho in partnership with Servicab S.A. The hotel is expected to open in 2027 and will feature 220 guest rooms and suites. Stretched along an 11,250-square-metre beachfront with unobstructed views of the ocean, the property will feature multiple dining options and over 1,000 square metres of event space.

    Hilton Garden Inn Luanda Airport

    Hilton has signed Hilton Garden Inn Luanda Airport in partnership with Crestigo. Set to open in 2028, Hilton Garden Inn Luanda Airport will feature 200 guest rooms, an all-day dining restaurant and terrace, flexible meeting rooms, a fitness centre, a pool, and a rooftop bar. The hotel’s proximity to Antonio Agostinho Neto International Airport and corporate business hubs makes it an ideal choice for business travellers.

    DoubleTree by Hilton Cabinda Futila Residences

    Hilton has also signed an agreement with Prodoil S.A. to debut its DoubleTree by Hilton brand in Angola. The property is expected to open in 2026 and will provide 290 contemporary apartments, including studio rooms, two and three-bedroom suites, as well as 10 three-bedroom oceanfront villas. It will also feature a restaurant, a swimming pool, and a natural lake.

    Additional Hilton Market Debuts

    Hilton Cotonou

    In Benin, Hilton has signed an agreement to open Hilton Cotonou in partnership with the Republic of Benin, through the Société de Développement Hôtelier du Bénin (SDHB). This landmark project marks Hilton’s official entry into the Beninese market.

    Scheduled to open in 2028, Hilton Cotonou will be strategically located on the Boulevard de la Marina, next to the Congress Palace, key government offices, and several international embassies. The hotel will feature 233 contemporary guest rooms and suites, an all-day dining restaurant, a signature destination bar and terrace, a pool bar, a spa, an outdoor pool, and flexible meeting spaces designed for both business and social events.

    The project is expected to generate several hundred direct and indirect jobs across hospitality and related sectors. It will also enhance Benin’s capacity to host international conferences and events, reinforcing the country’s ambition to become an African hub for business and high-end tourism.

    Hilton & Hilton Garden Inn Antananarivo 

    Hilton has signed agreements to open two properties in Madagascar, marking Hilton’s re-entry into the country. Located in the heart of Madagascar’s capital and expected to open in 2028, Hilton Antananarivo will feature 170 guest rooms, multiple dining options, a ballroom, six meeting rooms, a fitness centre, spa and outdoor pool. Further South, Hilton Garden Inn Antananarivo will be part of a mixed-use development with retail and office spaces, making it ideal for business and leisure travellers. Set to open in 2027, the 120-guest room hotel will offer a restaurant, bar, flexible meeting rooms, a fitness centre, and an outdoor pool.

    Hilton’s Nigeria Expansion

    The Wave Hotel Abuja Jabi, Curio Collection by Hilton

    Located in Jabi, one of the capital’s most popular districts, The Wave Hotel Abuja Jabi, Curio Collection by Hilton, will feature 93 stylishly appointed guest rooms, upscale dining venues, an outdoor pool, and a wellness centre. Developed in partnership with The Wave Hotel Limited (OpCo), the hotel is set to open in 2026 and benefits from being a short 10-minute drive from Abuja’s Commercial Business District. Each hotel in Curio Collection is hand-picked to immerse guests in one-of-a-kind moments in the world’s most sought-after destinations, evoking a bespoke story through distinctive architecture and design, world-class food and beverage, and curated experiences. 

    Hilton Lagos Ikeja

    Hilton has signed Hilton Lagos Ikeja in partnership with Cornfield Group. Located in Ikeja’s government and residential hub, the hotel is strategically situated near corporate and governmental offices and in proximity to the Murtala Muhammed International Airport. Slated to open in 2029, the hotel will feature 200 modern guest rooms and suites – and offers elevated dining options such as an all-day dining restaurant, a signature restaurant, a lobby bar, a pool bar & grill, and a destination bar. The hotel will also include a spacious ballroom, four meeting rooms, and a fully equipped fitness centre.

    Hilton Garden Inn in Kano

    Marking Kano’s first internationally branded hotel, Hilton Garden Inn in Kano is being developed in partnership with Akhim Plus Limited. The hotel will offer 100 guest rooms, flexible meeting rooms, an outdoor pool, and a fitness centre. Expected to open in 2029, the hotel’s location near key sites including the Government House, Emir’s Palace, National Museum, Kano Race Course, Kano Golf Club, and Meena Event Centre makes it an ideal choice for business and leisure travellers alike.

    West Africa and East Africa

    Hampton by Hilton Accra Airport

    Hilton has signed Hampton by Hilton Accra Airport with Amani International Hospitality Limited – bringing Hampton by Hilton’s award-winning hospitality to Ghana’s Kotoka International Airport. Opening in 2026, Hampton by Hilton Accra Airport will include 170 guest rooms, a fully equipped fitness centre, an outdoor pool, and meeting spaces. The hotel will also offer a dynamic open-concept social space and a round-the-clock snacks shop. It will be a part of Airport Area Accra, a mixed-use development featuring malls and corporate offices.

    In Ethiopia, Hilton recently announced agreements with Brighton Hotels and Business Plc. to open two properties – DoubleTree by Hilton Adama and DoubleTree by Hilton Dire Dawa (http://apo-opa.co/4lbtHv2) – marking the first internationally branded hotels in the cities. Opening in 2028, these hotels further reaffirm Hilton’s commitment to expanding its presence in Ethiopia, with plans to reach eight trading properties across the country in the coming years.

    Hilton has also announced its Tanzanian re-entry with the signing of Canopy by Hilton Zanzibar The Burj (http://apo-opa.co/3ST8aeB), in partnership with CPS Live Limited. Expected to open in 2027, the lifestyle hotel will feature 162 inviting and sophisticated guest rooms and suites, elevated dining spaces, and a wide array of facilities. Located in the heart of Fumba Town and part of a mixed-use development, ‘BURJ Zanzibar,’ the property will offer unique experiences tailored to guests seeking authentic local experiences.

    North Africa

    Hilton continues to grow across North Africa, with plans to triple its portfolio in Egypt (http://apo-opa.co/4l58VNw) to more than 40 trading hotels across the country in the coming years. In Morocco, Hilton is set to more than double its portfolio (http://apo-opa.co/3G2a75u), with plans to bolster its luxury presence and introduce new brands. Hilton also recently signed a new DoubleTree by Hilton property in Fes, an ancient city whose medina is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

    DoubleTree by Hilton Fes Golf

    In partnership with Le Clos de l’Atlas, Hilton is set to open DoubleTree by Hilton Fes Golf in 2028. The 109-guest room property will be located next to a golf course and will offer easy access to Fes’s many cultural attractions. The hotel will also be in close proximity to Fes’s industrial quarter and an upcoming convention centre, making it ideal for business travellers as well.

    Recent & Upcoming Openings

    In South Africa, Hilton recently opened Canopy by Hilton Cape Town Longkloof (http://apo-opa.co/4l4zrXe) in partnership with Growthpoint Properties, marking the lifestyle brand’s debut in South Africa. Located in the vibrant Longkloof precinct, the hotel features 154 spacious and modern guest rooms. Each hotel room reflects the country’s cultural richness through bold local art and design and colourful prints throughout its interiors. Ideally situated in Cape Town’s City Bowl, the property offers easy access to Table Mountain, Camps Bay, and the V&A Waterfront. Guests can also enjoy the hotel’s signature restaurant, Ongetem, led by renowned chef Bertus Basson, celebrating South African culinary heritage with bold, contemporary flair.

    Hilton also recently opened DoubleTree by Hilton Addis Ababa Airport (http://apo-opa.co/44lFtgD) in Ethiopia. Located just minutes from Bole Addis Ababa International Airport, the property offers a complimentary airport shuttle, a rooftop restaurant, and proximity to the various events at Millenium Hall. Last year, Hilton opened the first Hampton by Hilton in Africa in South Africa with Hampton by Hilton Sandton Grayston (http://apo-opa.co/4lfuafR), bringing the brand’s friendly and authentic service to Johannesburg’s financial and shopping district.

    Later this year, Hilton expects to open its first hotel in Ghana with Hilton Accra Cantonments in partnership with High Street Development Company. Located in Cantonments, an upscale suburb which is home to multiple embassies and high commissions, the hotel will feature 145 guest rooms and a range of dining options including an all-day dining restaurant, a lobby lounge and pool bar. The hotel will offer a gym, spa, and outdoor swimming pool, as well as more than 900 square metres of event space including a ballroom, seven meeting rooms and an executive boardroom.

    Hilton currently operates 63 hotels in Africa, with more than 100 under development. All hotels will be part of Hilton Honors, Hilton’s award-winning loyalty programme with over 218 million members globally. 

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Bench.

    Contact:
    Maya Chacko
    Hilton
    maya.chacko@hilton.com

    Connect with Hilton on: 
    Facebook: http://apo-opa.co/4lhOgGl
    X: http://apo-opa.co/40b5fSe
    LinkedIn: http://apo-opa.co/4lbh2Ij
    Instagram: http://apo-opa.co/40bQpeh  
    YouTube: http://apo-opa.co/3Ti1Uxf

    About Hilton:
    Hilton (NYSE: HLT) is a leading global hospitality company with a portfolio (http://apo-opa.co/3G4U0nJ) of 24 world-class brands comprising more than 8,600 properties and nearly 1.3 million rooms, in 139 countries and territories. Dedicated to fulfilling its founding vision to fill the earth with the light and warmth of hospitality, Hilton has welcomed over 3 billion guests in its more than 100-year history, was named the No. 1 World’s Best Workplace by Great Place to Work and Fortune and has been recognized as a global leader on the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices. Hilton has introduced industry-leading technology enhancements to improve the guest experience, including Digital Key Share, automated complimentary room upgrades and the ability to book confirmed connecting rooms. Through the award-winning guest loyalty program Hilton Honors, the more than 218 million Hilton Honors (http://apo-opa.co/3Ti1Q0t) members who book directly with Hilton can earn Points for hotel stays and experiences money can’t buy. With the free Hilton Honors app (http://apo-opa.co/4lf8yjz), guests can book their stay, select their room, check in, unlock their door with a Digital Key and check out, all from their smartphone. Visit http://stories.Hilton.com for more information.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Marriott International announces plans to add more than 50 properties and over 9,000 rooms to its Africa portfolio by the end of 2027

    From the Future Hospitality Summit Africa in Cape Town, South Africa, Marriott International, Inc. (Nasdaq: MAR) today announced plans to expand its operations in Africa with the anticipated addition of over 50 properties and more than 9,000 rooms by the end of 2027.  The company’s growth strategy includes the expected entry into five markets – Cape Verde, Cote d’Ivoire, The Democratic Republic of Congo, Madagascar and Mauritania. The planned expansion aims to further strengthen the company’s footprint across the continent where its current operating portfolio encompasses nearly 150 properties and 26,000 rooms across 20 countries and 22 brands.

    “We are witnessing a transformation of Africa’s tourism sector driven by visionary government agendas, substantial infrastructure development, enhanced regional and international connectivity and diversified travel experiences, all of which are laying the foundation for a thriving hospitality sector,” said Jerome Briet, Chief Development Officer, Europe, Middle East & Africa, Marriott International. “With our renowned portfolio of brands, world-class distribution platform and award-winning travel programme, Marriott Bonvoy, we continue to drive robust expansion opportunities with owners and franchisees across Africa and remain committed to supporting the growth of its tourism sector.”

    Marriott’s planned expansion aims to enhance the strategic development of the company’s luxury, premium and select-service portfolio across key and emerging destinations in Africa. The company’s growth across the continent is expected to be largely driven by its select-service brands, including Protea Hotels by Marriott and Four Points by Sheraton, and a strong consumer demand for distinctive, high-quality hospitality experiences. Tanzania, Egypt, Morocco, Kenya and Nigeria are the highest growth markets for the company in the continent, making up more than half of the projects slated to open in the next two years. Conversions and adaptive reuse opportunities are also anticipated to continue to drive meaningful growth for the company, representing more than 30 percent of the anticipated African additions by the end of 2027.  The company is also seeing an increased appetite for branded residential projects across the continent.

    Karim Cheltout, Senior Vice President – Development, Middle East & Africa, Marriott International added, “Africa is home to emerging marketplaces that offer significant growth opportunities across major gateway cities, commercial centres, safari circuits and resort destinations. Through our diverse range of extraordinary brands, we are in a position to work with developers to offer high quality accommodations along with distinct and innovative travel experiences that resonate with today’s rapidly evolving consumer.”

    North and East Africa Fuel Expansion Plans for the Continent

    Marriott is witnessing strong growth momentum in the North and East Africa regions, which together account for more than 60 percent of the company’s planned additions in Africa by the end of 2027.  Egypt and Morocco are expected to lead the expansion for Marriott in North Africa. Plans in Egypt include the anticipated debut of Aloft Hotels in the continent, with the opening of Aloft Ghazala Bay situated in the North Coast of the country expected in 2027.  More than 50 percent of the company’s expected additions in Egypt by the end of 2027 are conversion or adaptive reuse projects. Expansion highlights for Morocco include the anticipated market debut of AC Hotels by Marriott with a scheduled opening in Casablanca in 2027.

    In East Africa, the company continues to see growth momentum with safari lodges and camps spurred by a growing appeal for adventure and outdoor travel. Following the successful opening of JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge in 2023, the company is slated to open six safari properties across the region by the end of 2027, including The Ritz-Carlton, Masai Mara Safari Camp (Kenya), and Mapito Safari Camp, Serengeti, Autograph Collection (Tanzania) – both of which are scheduled to open this year.

    Marriott’s portfolio in Tanzania is anticipated to more than double by the end of 2027 while in Kenya the company plans to open five properties including the debut of Courtyard by Marriott with two expected openings in Nairobi in 2027. Growth plans in Uganda include the country’s first Marriott Hotel and Marriott Executive Apartments with scheduled openings in Kampala by the end of this year.

    Demand for Premium and Select Accommodation Remains Strong in West Africa

    By the end of 2027, the company expects to add six properties in Nigeria, its largest growth market in the West Africa region. Plans include the introduction of Courtyard by Marriott in the country with anticipated openings in Abuja within the next two years, and the continued expansion of Protea Hotels by Marriott and Marriott Hotels.

    Marriott is also slated to enter three new markets in West Africa in the next two years. Four Points by Sheraton Sao Vicente Resort is anticipated to open this year, marking the company’s debut in Cape Verde. Marriott is also expected to enter Côte d’Ivoire in 2027, with an Autograph Collection Hotel located in Assinie-Mafia, and Mauritania with a Sheraton Hotel situated in Nouakchott, which is expected to open later this year.

    Growth across Southern and Central Africa Remains Steady

    The company’s largest market in Africa, South Africa, is expected to see an expansion of the Autograph Collection Hotels brand portfolio with the opening of Morea House in Cape Town this year, followed by the anticipated addition of a property within Kruger National Park in 2026.  Marriott also plans to enter The Democratic Republic of Congo by the end of this year with a Protea Hotel by Marriott and Four Points by Sheraton in Kinshasa. The company is also expected to make its debut in Madagascar with the opening of a Delta Hotels by Marriott this year and a Protea Hotel by Marriott anticipated in 2026 in Antananarivo. The company’s planned expansion also includes the anticipated debut of Le Méridien in Cameroon in 2027.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Bench.

    Note on Forward-Looking Statements:
    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of United States federal securities laws, including statements related to expected property openings, additions and portfolio growth; entry into new markets and brand debuts in certain markets; our expectations regarding growth opportunities; demand trends and expectations, including demand for certain offering types; and similar statements concerning anticipated future events and expectations that are not historical facts. We caution you that these statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to numerous evolving risks and uncertainties that we may not be able to accurately predict or assess, including the risk factors that we identify in our U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission filings, including our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K or Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. Any of these factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the expectations we express or imply in this press release. We make these forward-looking statements as of the date of this press release and undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise these statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    Media contacts:
    Chandan Belani
    Senior Director of Communications
    MEA & Development PR, EMEA
    Marriott International
    Chanan.Belani@marriott.com

    Birgit Deibele
    Senior Director of Communications
    Sub-Saharan Africa
    Marriott International
    Birgit.Deibele@marriott.com

    Connect with us on:
    Facebook: (https://apo-opa.co/4n4mOxc)
    X: (https://apo-opa.co/4ebSpcr)
    Instagram: (https://apo-opa.co/43O8p0J)

    About Marriott International:
    Marriott International, Inc. (Nasdaq: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of nearly 9,500 properties across more than 30 leading brands in 144 countries and territories. Marriott operates, franchises, and licenses hotel, residential, timeshare, and other lodging properties all around the world. The company offers Marriott Bonvoy®, its highly awarded travel platform. For more information, please visit our website at www.Marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.MarriottNewsCenter.com. 

    Marriott encourages investors, the media, and others interested in the company to review and subscribe to the information Marriott posts on its investor relations website at www.Marriott.com/investor or Marriott’s news center website at www.MarriottNewsCenter.com, which may be material. The contents of these websites are not incorporated by reference into this press release or any report or document Marriott files with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, and any references to the websites are intended to be inactive textual references only.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • Axiom Mission 4 launch to ISS rescheduled for June 22

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    NASA has once again rescheduled the launch of the fourth private astronaut mission to the International Space Station (ISS), Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4), to no earlier than June 22.

    The decision comes as NASA, in collaboration with Axiom Space and SpaceX, continues to evaluate recent repair work conducted in the aft (rear) segment of the ISS’s Russian Zvezda service module.

    Originally scheduled for May 29, the launch has been deferred multiple times. It was first deferred to June 8, then to June 10, June 11, and June 19.

    The crew is now scheduled to lift off aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

    ISRO confirmed the revised launch timeline in a statement on X: “Teams from @isro, Poland, and Hungary engaged in a detailed discussion with @Axiom_Space regarding the probable launch timeline of Axiom Mission 4. Following this, @Axiom_Space held consultations with @NASA and @SpaceX to assess multiple readiness parameters. Based on the readiness status of the @SpaceX Falcon 9 launch vehicle, the Dragon spacecraft, repairs in the Zvezda module of the @Space_Station, ascent corridor weather conditions, and the health and preparedness of the crew in quarantine, @Axiom_Space has informed that the next probable launch date is 22 June 2025.”

    Union Minister of State for Science and Technology Jitendra Singh also confirmed the postponement of Axiom-4 on X. He said, “Update | Axiom Mission 04 to International Space Station (ISS). After assessing the key parameters including Module Fitness, Crew Health, Weather etc… Axiom Space has indicated that 22 June 2025 may be the next likely launch date of Axiom-04 Mission carrying, among others, the Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, to the International Space Station. Further updates, if any, shall be shared accordingly.”

    The Ax-4 mission marks another milestone in the growing field of commercial spaceflight, showcasing international collaboration and private sector innovation. The mission will be led by Peggy Whitson, a veteran former NASA astronaut and now Director of Human Spaceflight at Axiom Space. She will serve as the mission commander.

    Joining Whitson on the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft are three other astronauts: Shubhanshu Shukla, an astronaut from the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), who will serve as the mission’s pilot; Sławosz Uznanski-Wiśniewski, a Polish project astronaut from the European Space Agency (ESA); and Tibor Kapu from Hungary—both serving as mission specialists.

    Once aboard the ISS, Shukla will conduct pioneering experiments related to food and space nutrition. These experiments, developed through a collaboration between ISRO and the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), with support from NASA, aim to enhance understanding of sustainable life-support systems—a crucial aspect of future long-duration space travel.

    Indian Air Force Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla will become the second Indian to travel to space after Rakesh Sharma’s 1984 mission.

    The Ax-4 mission is Axiom Space’s fourth private astronaut flight to the ISS. The Ax-4 crew includes astronauts from India, Poland, and Hungary. According to Axiom, this will be the first government-sponsored human spaceflight for the three nations since the 1980s.

    (With inputs from IANS)

  • Axiom Mission 4 launch to ISS rescheduled for June 22

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    NASA has once again rescheduled the launch of the fourth private astronaut mission to the International Space Station (ISS), Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4), to no earlier than June 22.

    The decision comes as NASA, in collaboration with Axiom Space and SpaceX, continues to evaluate recent repair work conducted in the aft (rear) segment of the ISS’s Russian Zvezda service module.

    Originally scheduled for May 29, the launch has been deferred multiple times. It was first deferred to June 8, then to June 10, June 11, and June 19.

    The crew is now scheduled to lift off aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

    ISRO confirmed the revised launch timeline in a statement on X: “Teams from @isro, Poland, and Hungary engaged in a detailed discussion with @Axiom_Space regarding the probable launch timeline of Axiom Mission 4. Following this, @Axiom_Space held consultations with @NASA and @SpaceX to assess multiple readiness parameters. Based on the readiness status of the @SpaceX Falcon 9 launch vehicle, the Dragon spacecraft, repairs in the Zvezda module of the @Space_Station, ascent corridor weather conditions, and the health and preparedness of the crew in quarantine, @Axiom_Space has informed that the next probable launch date is 22 June 2025.”

    Union Minister of State for Science and Technology Jitendra Singh also confirmed the postponement of Axiom-4 on X. He said, “Update | Axiom Mission 04 to International Space Station (ISS). After assessing the key parameters including Module Fitness, Crew Health, Weather etc… Axiom Space has indicated that 22 June 2025 may be the next likely launch date of Axiom-04 Mission carrying, among others, the Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, to the International Space Station. Further updates, if any, shall be shared accordingly.”

    The Ax-4 mission marks another milestone in the growing field of commercial spaceflight, showcasing international collaboration and private sector innovation. The mission will be led by Peggy Whitson, a veteran former NASA astronaut and now Director of Human Spaceflight at Axiom Space. She will serve as the mission commander.

    Joining Whitson on the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft are three other astronauts: Shubhanshu Shukla, an astronaut from the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), who will serve as the mission’s pilot; Sławosz Uznanski-Wiśniewski, a Polish project astronaut from the European Space Agency (ESA); and Tibor Kapu from Hungary—both serving as mission specialists.

    Once aboard the ISS, Shukla will conduct pioneering experiments related to food and space nutrition. These experiments, developed through a collaboration between ISRO and the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), with support from NASA, aim to enhance understanding of sustainable life-support systems—a crucial aspect of future long-duration space travel.

    Indian Air Force Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla will become the second Indian to travel to space after Rakesh Sharma’s 1984 mission.

    The Ax-4 mission is Axiom Space’s fourth private astronaut flight to the ISS. The Ax-4 crew includes astronauts from India, Poland, and Hungary. According to Axiom, this will be the first government-sponsored human spaceflight for the three nations since the 1980s.

    (With inputs from IANS)

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Lesley Cowley OBE appointed as Chair of Building Digital UK

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Lesley Cowley OBE appointed as Chair of Building Digital UK

    Lesley Cowley OBE has been appointed by Technology Secretary Peter Kyle to chair Building Digital UK (BDUK).

    Lesley Cowley OBE has been appointed by Technology Secretary Peter Kyle to chair Building Digital UK (BDUK) – the government agency responsible for rolling out fast and reliable broadband and mobile coverage to hard-to-reach places across the UK.

    The British businesswoman is widely regarded as an accomplished leader in the digital and technology sectors, offering decades of experience leading a variety of public services and businesses.

    The role will see Lesley advise and support BDUK’s executive team on the delivery of BDUK’s two main programmes: Project Gigabit, the government’s rollout of lightning-fast broadband to areas that would otherwise be stuck with slower speeds, and the Shared Rural Network, a joint programme with mobile network operators to boost 4G mobile coverage in rural communities all over the country.

    Chair of BDUK Lesley Cowley OBE said:

    It is a privilege to join Building Digital UK at such a pivotal moment in its journey. The challenge of ensuring every corner of the UK benefits from fast, reliable digital infrastructure is one I am deeply passionate about.

    BDUK is a critical enabler of the Prime Minister’s Plan for Change, helping to grow the economy while ensuring communities are not left behind in the digital age. Working alongside the talented team at BDUK, we will continue to deliver on our mission of creating a more connected, inclusive, and digitally empowered nation.

    Technology Secretary Peter Kyle said:

    Lesley’s commitment to making a positive difference to public facing services, together with her track record in leading digital transformation and delivering innovative solutions, make her an outstanding choice for Chair of Building Digital UK.

    She will be instrumental in helping us deliver on our growth mission, by continuing to drive forward our ambitious plans for better connectivity across the every part of UK, making communities and businesses better off.

    Lesley will take up the post on 1 July 2025, taking over from Hazel Hobbs who has served as interim Chair since August 2024.

    Her previous executive career culminated in her role as Chief Executive Officer of Nominet, the .uk domain name registry, where for over a decade she led significant growth and evolution from a technical organisation into a key player in the global internet space. She was appointed OBE in recognition of her services to the internet and digital economy.

    In her subsequent career, Lesley was the first Chair of the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), Chair of Companies House and Lead Non-Executive Director and then first ever Chair of The National Archives. Her current roles include Chair of ACL Ltd and a Non-Executive Director of Public Digital Ltd., both private companies.

    She was the Institute of Directors UK NED of the Year Winner, 2019 and has a strong track record of driving technology transformation and customer-first approaches.

    ENDS

    Notes to editors

    Chair appointment

    The appointment is for a term of three years.

    Building Digital UK

    Building Digital UK (BDUK) is an executive agency of the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT). It is responsible for the rollout of gigabit-capable broadband and the expansion of 4G mobile coverage in hard-to-reach areas of the UK. BDUK works with suppliers and communities to ensure that people can access fast and reliable digital connectivity that can transform their lives and drive economic growth.

    Project Gigabit

    Project Gigabit is a government-funded programme to enable hard-to-reach communities to access fast, reliable gigabit-capable broadband. It targets homes and businesses that are not included in broadband suppliers’ commercial plans, reaching parts of the UK that might otherwise miss out on upgrades to next-generation speeds.

    The connections delivered by Project Gigabit will benefit rural and remote communities, as well as tackling pockets of poor connectivity in urban areas. Project Gigabit is crucial to the government’s mission to break down barriers to opportunity and kickstart economic growth across the country.

    Shared Rural Network

    Jointly funded by the government and the UK’s main mobile network operators, the Shared Rural Network is delivering new 4G coverage to places where there is either limited or no 4G coverage at all.

    The public and private investment in a shared network of phone masts is driving increases in coverage across all four nations, with the biggest coverage improvements in rural parts of Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales.

    Updates to this page

    Published 18 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: More support for care-experienced young people

    Source: Scottish Government

    Children (Care, Care Experience and Services Planning) Bill published.

    Legislative proposals to improve the experiences of children and young people in Scotland’s care system have been published in a Bill introduced to Parliament.

    The Children (Care, Care Experience and Services Planning) (Scotland) Bill proposes extending the aftercare support currently available for 16-to-26 year olds who were in care on their 16th birthday to those who had left care before that point – including providing help with accommodation, education, employment and wellbeing.

    If passed by Parliament, the legislation would also secure for people with care experience a right to access lifelong advocacy services, ensuring their voices are better heard throughout their care journey.

    Minister for Children, Young People and the Promise Natalie Don-Innes said:

    “This Bill puts the needs and rights of care-experienced children and young people at the heart of our care system.

    “By aiming to provide a legal right to access advocacy and expanding aftercare support, we are responding directly to what people with care experience have told us they need. 

    “This legislation marks a crucial step forward in keeping The Promise by 2030. It will ensure children and young people receive the compassionate and considerate care they need throughout their care journey, so that they grow up loved, safe, and respected.

    “I look forward to working closely with MSPs across parties in the months ahead to advance this Bill and ensure we meet our collective pledge to The Promise.”

    The Bill, which will now be scrutinised by MSPs, aims to support smoother transitions between children’s and adult services by establishing tripartite accountability between local councils, NHS boards, and integration joint boards for children’s services planning.

    The legislation includes proposed reforms of the Children’s Hearings system so it continues to meet the needs of children and families.

    It also aims to improve professional recognition of foster carers with a proposed national register to help enhance the quality of placements, alongside taking steps to remove profit from care.

    The Scottish Government will also develop new guidance with partners on the language of care to reduce stigma and improve how services communicate with those who have experience of care.

    This work will build on the improvements already made for care-experienced children and young people since Scotland first pledged to ‘Keep The Promise’ in 2020.

    Background

    The Scottish Government has introduced the Children (Care, Care Experience and Services Planning) (Scotland) Bill to the Scottish Parliament following extensive consultation and engagement, including with people with care experience and representative organisations.  Engagement with stakeholders will continue throughout the Parliamentary process.

    The most recent Promise Oversight Board report found Scotland is still on track to Keep the Promise by 2030.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: SIXEP at 40

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    SIXEP at 40

    A workhorse of the Sellafield site is celebrating 40 years of reducing our environmental impact.

    Site Ion Exchange Effluent Plant (SIXEP), Sellafield site

    Sellafield’s Site Ion Exchange Effluent Plant (SIXEP) reached a historic milestone this month as it clocked up four decades of safe, dependable operations.

    Best described as the kidney of Sellafield, the plant plays a vital role in receiving and filtering contaminated water from a range of nuclear buildings and processes.

    Water used to store spent nuclear fuel and effluents from legacy waste stores and clean-up operations is piped into the plant and filtered to remove radioactive ions like caesium and strontium.

    As a result, SIXEP has had a huge positive impact on our environmental performance at Sellafield, removing 99.9% of the radioactive ions from the water so it can be safely discharged to sea.

    Learn more about SIXEP and the ion exchange process

    Originally constructed with a 30-year lifespan, teams operate the plant 24 hours per day, 365 days per year and have kept it operational with minimal down time since it first came online in May 1985.

    They’ve processed more than 30 million cubic metres of water—enough to supply every household in the UK for three days – and removed over 130,000 TBq of radioactivity.

    They’ve also had to adapt to changing priorities and regulations at the site over the years but have risen to every challenge to meet demand and keep the site safe and productive.

    Roddy Miller, Sellafield Ltd’s chief operating officer, said:

    For four decades SIXEP has been a constant at Sellafield, quietly doing its job and making a big difference in protecting the environment and supporting operations across the site.

    This anniversary is a chance to reflect on everything that’s been achieved in that time, not just by the plant but by the people behind it.

    I want to congratulate and thank everyone who has contributed to the safe and successful operation of SIXEP in the past and today. I know its future is in good hands.

    Mark Wareing, programme manager at the NDA, has been with the NDA since its inception and has been closely involved in SIXEP at Sellafield during that time. He said:

    Since the inception of the NDA 20 years ago, SIXEP performance has been central to NDA’s mission in supporting electricity generation and addressing some of the UK’s and Europe’s most significant nuclear clean-up challenges.

    The performance of the plant over the last 40 years of operations is a testament to the engineers who designed the facility and the dedication, expertise and ingenuity of the people who operate and maintain it.

    I have dedicated a large portion of my career to supporting the remediation of the legacy ponds and silos at Sellafield and, without SIXEP, the great progress that has been delivered to date could not have been achieved.

    Demand for SIXEP is set to continue until the 2060’s as the site’s clean-up mission and fuel storage programmes progress, so we’re constructing the SIXEP Continuity Plant (SCP) to ensure it can keep doing its vital work.

    SCP will integrate seamlessly with the existing plant to provide new sand bed filters and ion exchange vessels, as well as additional storage and waste management capabilities.

    It’s one of our major construction projects at Sellafield being delivered by the Programme and Project Partners and is on course to be operational in 2029.

    The SCP project team recently celebrated a significant delivery milestone as they completed the manufacture of 14 bespoke pump and valve modules that will form the inner workings of the plant.

    This was supported by an extensive supply chain including West Cumberland Engineering Ltd who completed the final module manufacturing, intricate connecting pipework, and welds.

    Once commissioned, these key components will work together to treat effluent from legacy buildings across the site including the First-Generation Magnox Storage Pond and Magnox Swarf Storage Silo.

    This will help us to maintain our high standards of environmental safety and operational efficiency for many years to come.

    Further reading

    SIXEP case study

    SIXEP Continuity Plant case study

    Updates to this page

    Published 18 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ18: Bona vacantia properties

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    LCQ18: Bona vacantia properties 
    Question:
     
    There are views that along with the demographic changes in Hong Kong, it is expected that the number of bona vacantia properties will continue to increase, which could pose potential challenges to the allocation and management of social resources. It has been reported that in recent years, some gangs have exploited bona vacantia properties to obtain benefits illegally, such as by committing unlawful alienation of the properties, using them for loans or even applying for adverse possession of them, indicating that there are gaps in the regulation of bona vacantia properties. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) of the specific number of bona vacantia properties currently under the management of the Lands Department (i.e. those properties originally held by a company that has been dissolved under the Companies (Winding Up and Miscellaneous Provisions) Ordinance (Cap. 32) or the Companies Ordinance (Cap. 622)); the details of the Government’s disposal of such properties in the past five years (including the progress of disposal);
     
    (2) whether it has compiled statistics on the number of bona vacantia properties in Hong Kong which were once held in personal names; whether the Government has currently put in place a relevant mechanism to dispose of such properties; if not, whether it will consider introducing dedicated measures or mechanisms to prevent such bona vacantia properties from being used for unlawful acts; if so, of the details, and whether the Government will impose administrative charges in the process of disposing of such bona vacantia properties and set clear charging standards in this regard; and
     
    (3) as there are views that the management of bona vacantia properties (including those bona vacantia properties which were once held by private individuals or companies) involves the powers and responsibilities of a number of government departments, whether the Government has put in place a cross-departmental co-ordination mechanism to enhance the efficiency of such work; if not, whether it has plans to further strengthen the cross-departmental collaboration on such work?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
    Bona vacantia properties (BVPs) generally refer to some real properties originally owned by individuals or companies, but the individual owners of properties subsequently dies and no one claims the estate, or the companies were liquidated and dissolved. In accordance with the prevailing laws, real properties owned by individuals or companies are handled by different ordinances to ensure that the rights and interests of the legal owners or successors of the properties will not be infringed and that the properties are properly handled when they become BVPs.
     
    Regarding the properties owned by individuals, the Probate and Administration Ordinance (Cap. 10) provides the jurisdiction of the court to handle matters relating to probate and administration of deceased’s estates, including the handling of unclaimed estates of a deceased person. If unclaimed estates involve property assets, the property will be disposed of in an appropriate manner, including sale.
     
    For properties owned by companies, in the course of winding up and dissolution, liquidators will sell properties owned by the companies to pay off outstanding liabilities. If a company, pursuant to the Companies Ordinance (Cap. 622) or the Companies (Winding Up and Miscellaneous Provisions) Ordinance (Cap. 32), completes the procedures for winding up and is about to dissolve, every property and right (such as including some properties that are yet to be sold in the market) vested in or held on trust for the company immediately before the dissolution is vested in the Government as bona vacantia. If such bona vacantia property is a land property, it will be managed by the Lands Department on behalf of the Government.
     
    In the past five years (from June 2020 to May 2025), records from the Land Registry show that the number of sales and purchase agreements for building units in Hong Kong was close to 260 000, while the Lands Department received about 50 new cases of BVPs. It can be seen that BVPs only account a very small portion of the overall property market.

    In response to the question raised by the Hon Doreen Kong, our reply in consultation with the Home and Youth Affairs Bureau is as follows:
     
    (1) As of now, the Lands Department has taken over 411 BVPs previously owned by companies, of which about 30 per cent cases are residential units, industrial units, shops and parking spaces. The remaining 70 per cent are the parts jointly owned with other property owners but inseparable, most of which have no market value and cannot be sold, such as external walls, rooftops, platforms, other common parts. As BVPs, especially the abovementioned 30 per cent cases, often involve unclear ownership, encumbrances or the need to first handle problems such as occupation of units, the Lands Department will carefully clarify the relevant legal rights and seek legal advice after receiving referrals from the Companies Registry, other government departments and the Court, etc. After confirming that the property is a BVP, the Lands Department will notify the Land Registry to add a remark that the property has been vested in the Government as bona vacantia, and choose the most appropriate means to dispose of the property. Generally speaking, if the BVPs are suitable for sale in the market (the appropriate cases among the abovementioned 30 per cent cases), the Lands Department will sell the property by tender. In the past five years (from June 2020 to May 2025), the Lands Department received about 50 new cases of BVPs. The Lands Department also sold 16 BVPs through tendering process in the past five years. As for the properties that cannot be sold (i.e. the abovementioned 70 per cent cases), these will continue to be managed by the Lands Department on behalf.
     
    (2) Section 16 of the Probate and Administration Ordinance (Cap. 10) stipulates the cases in which the Official Administrator, assisted by the Probate Registry, is entitled to administer the unclaimed estate of a deceased person as granted by the Court. If the unclaimed estate concerned involves property asset, the property will be disposed of as appropriate. For any unclaimed balance of deceased’s estate, including the money received from the sale of properties, the Official Administrator shall cause an advertisement to invite any claims to be made in accordance with section 23B of the Ordinance. If at the expiration of a period of five years from the date of first publication of such advertisement, the Official Administrator is of the opinion that no claim can reasonably be expected against the estate, the balance of the estate will be transferred to the general revenue of the Government. 
     
    Regarding the property fraud issue that the Hon Doreen Kong is concerned about, the current number of cases is still at a low level. Nevertheless, in response to some past fraud cases, the Land Registry will continue to maintain contact and collaboration with the Hong Kong Police Force to exchange information on suspected fraudulent transactions to prevent registrations for properties suspected to have been acquired through fraudulent means. The Property Alert service of the Land Registry will also send email notifications to registered users when the instruments for the sale or mortgage of properties are delivered to the Land Registry for registration.
     
    Besides, the Legislative Council is scrutinising the Registration of Titles and Land (Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill 2025. Under the Land Titles Ordinance (Cap. 585), the title registration system will be implemented on newly granted land first and the Land Registry will be empowered to take measures to reduce the risk of property fraud. Adverse possession will also not be applicable to newly granted land.
     
    (3) As mentioned above, it is not common for BVPs to arise. For BVPs previously owned by companies, the Companies Ordinance (Cap. 622) currently in force has clearly stipulated the circumstances under which the Government will take over BVPs, and the Lands Department, which is responsible for taking over BVPs, also has a well-established mechanism to properly handle these properties. Therefore, we believe that there is no need to set up an inter-departmental mechanism.
    Issued at HKT 15:30

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ7: Measures to combat telephone fraud

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by the Hon Duncan Chiu and a written reply by the Acting Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Dr Bernard Chan, in the Legislative Council today (June 18):

    Question:

         In recent years, the HKSAR Government has adopted diversified measures to actively combat telephone fraud, including introducing the Real-name Registration Programme for Subscriber Identification Module (SIM) Cards (RNR Programme) and the Hong Kong Police Force’s “Scameter+” and requiring local telecommunications service providers (TSPs) to play a voice alert message for calls made from newly activated pre-paid SIM (PPS) cards and block suspicious calls, as well as strengthening co-operation with Mainland and international law enforcement agencies. However, there are views pointing out that local telephone fraud cases have not shown a decreasing trend, causing inconvenience and disturbance to the public in their daily lives. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:

    (1) of the number of telephone fraud cases received by the Police from January to May this year, as well as the amount of money involved in such cases, the number of victims and their age distribution;

    (2) of the total number of PPS cards which have been rejected as the clients failed to provide information in compliance with the registration requirements since the introduction of the RNR Programme; the total number of the registration records of non-compliant PPS cards which have been cancelled by the TSPs, together with a breakdown and percentage by reason for non-compliance;

    (3) whether it has estimated the number of registered PPS cards resold in the market under the RNR Programme; of the authorities’ countermeasures currently in place against the resale practice concerned, and how they follow up cases of members of the public purchasing and using PPS cards that have long been registered by other persons;

    (4) as the 2024 Policy Address has mentioned that the Government would introduce a legislative amendment proposal into this Council to prohibit the resale of registered SIM cards with a view to further enhancing the RNR Programme, of the latest progress of such work and the legislative timetable;

    (5) of the accumulated downloads of “Scameter+” since its launch by the Police in February 2023 and the respective numbers of call alerts issued to users and local and non-local suspicious telephone numbers which the TSPs have been required to block; of the details and outcome of the Police’s follow-up actions in respect of such suspicious and blocked telephone numbers; and

    (6) whether it has comprehensively reviewed the effectiveness of the various measures introduced by the Government to combat telephone fraud; if so, of the results, and the measures in place to cope with the situation where the number of telephone fraud cases has not decreased, including whether it will adjust the existing overall strategy for combating telephone fraud, as well as introduce relevant enhancement measures and new measures?

    Reply:

    President,

         The Office of the Communications Authority (OFCA) has been devising and implementing a series of preventive measures from the perspective of telecommunications services to assist the Hong Kong Police Force (Police) in combating phone deception at the source. In response to the question raised by the Hon Duncan Chiu, having consulted the Security Bureau, OFCA and the Police, our consolidated reply is as follows:

         The Real-name Registration Programme for SIM Cards (RNR Programme) has been fully implemented since February 2023, requiring that all SIM cards issued and used locally (including SIM service plans and pre-paid SIM cards (PPS cards)) must complete real-name registration before service activation. Under the RNR Programme, OFCA has requested telecommunications service providers (TSPs) to conduct regular sampling checks on registered SIM card information, to step up verification of suspicious cases, and to refer cases suspected of violating the law to the Police for handling. If the users subject to sample checks are unable to verify their registered information in accordance with the instructions of the respective TSPs, the relevant PPS cards will be deregistered and cannot be used thereafter. As at end-April this year, around 4.71 million PPS cards were rejected for registration as the clients failed to provide information in compliance with the registration requirements (including cases where registration was done using a copy of an identity document and the information provided was inconsistent with the identity document, etc). Besides, the registration records of about 3.4 million non-compliant PPS cards have been deregistered (including cases where users failed to verify their identities as required during the TSPs’ sampling checks and were suspected of using forged documents for registration, etc). According to the information provided by the TSPs, the majority of deregistration was due to users failing to submit required identity documents for verification as required. OFCA does not maintain information on specific reasons for deregistration by breakdown.

         To enhance the effective implementation of the RNR Programme, OFCA has required the TSPs to adopt “iAM Smart” as the default registration method for Hong Kong identity card (HKID) holders. For non-HKID holders, their real-name registration information will be manually verified. Currently, provision of false information and/or false documents under the RNR Programme may constitute a criminal offence. OFCA does not maintain information on the resale of registered PPS cards in the market.

         In addition, the Police launched the mobile application “Scameter+” in February 2023 to help members of the public distinguish suspicious online platform accounts, payment accounts, phone numbers, email addresses, websites, etc, and to provide the public with anti-fraud tips. As at end-April this year, “Scameter+” had recorded over 960 000 downloads, 8.4 million searches in its search engine and 1 million alerts issued to members of the public. “Scameter+” has now been upgraded and is equipped with automatic detection functions. The Call Alert function and the Website Detection function within the mobile application will automatically identify scam calls and fraudulent websites. If potential fraud or cyber security risk is detected, “Scameter+” will issue a real-time notification, reminding users not to answer the call or browse the website. As at end-April this year, “Scameter+” had issued over 800 000 warnings about suspicious calls and websites to the public through its automatic function. Under OFCA’s co-ordination, the Police and major TSPs have established a mechanism where the TSPs will, based on the fraud records provided by the Police, block the telephone numbers suspected to be involved in deception cases and intercept suspicious website links as soon as possible. As at end-April this year, more than 50 000 website links and about 9 000 local and non-local phone numbers have been successfully blocked. The Police will also actively investigate cases related to these suspected scam phone numbers.

         Apart from the above-mentioned measures, OFCA has also required the TSPs to intercept suspicious calls starting with “+852”, send voice alerts or text messages to all mobile users for overseas calls prefixed with “+852”, and play voice alerts for newly activated PPS cards, as well as has launched the SMS Sender Registration Scheme to assist members of public in distinguishing the identity of the SMS senders. OFCA has also been conducting continuous market surveillance and strengthening publicity activities, as well as has launched the District Anti-Phone Deception Ambassador Scheme in January this year, appointing over 300 District Council members and staff members of their ward offices as District Anti-Phone Deception Ambassadors. Starting from May this year, OFCA has collaborated with District Anti-Phone Deception Ambassadors through community activities to further promote anti-scam messages.

         For telephone deception trends, the Police recorded a total of 1 816 telephone deception cases between January and April this year, averaging 454 cases per month and representing a significant 52.3 per cent decrease compared to the monthly average of 951 cases in the fourth quarter of 2024. The financial losses associated amounted to approximately HK$320 million, involving a total of 1 759 victims aged between 15 and 97. For telephone deception cases involving impersonation of customer service emerged since early last year, after focused enforcement efforts by the Police, the monthly average for the first four months this year dropped to approximately 190 cases, recording a decrease of over 80 per cent from the peak of about 1 110 cases in July 2024. These trends highlight the effectiveness of measures implemented by the Government in combating phone deception.

         The Government will continue to adopt a multi-pronged approach to combat phone deception and protect the interests of the public. Regarding anti-phone deception measures and the RNR Programme, with reference to the overall implementation experience and the Police’s provision of scam trends on criminal groups using PPS cards, the Government is reviewing the implementation effectiveness of relevant measures and overall operation of the RNR Programme, including reviewing the limit on the number of PPS cards, the arrangement for prohibiting the sale of registered SIM cards or using information of others to conduct real-name registration for profit making, etc. The Government aims to consult relevant Legislative Council Panel within this year.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Heavy rain and thunderstorms expected in the capital

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    In the near future and until the end of June 18, Moscow is expected to see heavy rain and thunderstorms in some places. During thunderstorms, the wind will increase, its gusts can reach 15 meters per second.

    Residents are asked to be careful on the streets, not to be near billboards and shaky structures, not to take shelter under trees and not to park cars near them.

    In an emergency, you must call the emergency services at the single number: 112 or the single helpline of the Main Directorate of the Ministry of Emergency Situations of Russia for the city of Moscow: 7 495 637-31-01.

    Get the latest news quicklyofficial telegram channelthe city of Moscow.

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

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    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/155402073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Astana Declaration of the Second Central Asia-China Summit

    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

    ASTANA, June 18 (Xinhua) — The second China-Central Asia Summit was held in Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan, on June 17, 2025. Below is the full text of the Astana Declaration of the Second Central Asia-China Summit.

    Astana Declaration of the Second Central Asia-China Summit

    On June 17, 2025, the second Central Asia-China summit was held in Astana with the participation of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan K.K. Tokayev, the Chairman of the People’s Republic of China Xi Jinping, the President of the Kyrgyz Republic S.N. Japarov, the President of the Republic of Tajikistan E.Rahmon, the President of Turkmenistan S.G. Berdimuhamedov and the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Sh.M. Mirziyoyev.

    The heads of state of the Central Asia-China format, recognizing the strategic importance of the region and recognizing the importance of further deepening multilateral cooperation based on equality, mutual respect and mutual benefit, declare their commitment to further strengthening friendly relations, deepening political trust and expanding economic cooperation between the countries of Central Asia and China.

    In a friendly atmosphere, the parties summed up the results of comprehensive cooperation between the Central Asian states and China, summarized the experience of multifaceted mutually beneficial cooperation, outlined guidelines for further cooperation and stated the following.

    1. The Parties highly appreciate the results of the first Summit of Heads of State of the Central Asia-China format (May 19, 2023, Xi’an), the meeting of foreign ministers of the Central Asia-China format (December 1, 2024, Chengdu and April 26, 2025, Almaty), and also actively support the development of priority areas of cooperation at the level of heads of relevant ministries, departments and various forms of interaction.

    The Parties agree that the development of fruitful multifaceted cooperation between the Central Asian states and China meets the fundamental interests of all countries and their peoples. Against the backdrop of changes unprecedented in a century, the Parties, based on favorable prospects for the peoples of the region, confirm their desire to jointly create a closer community of common destiny for Central Asia and China.

    Based on a comprehensive review of the experience of cooperation between Central Asia and China, the Parties noted the formation of the “Central Asia-China spirit”, characterized by mutual respect, mutual trust, mutual benefit, mutual assistance and the promotion of joint modernization through high-quality development. It is important to fully develop this spirit, which is intended to serve as a basis for the development of friendship and mutually beneficial cooperation between the states of the Format.

    2. The Parties reaffirm their support for the protection of each other’s fundamental interests in the spirit of mutual understanding and respect.

    China firmly supports the development path of the Central Asian states, their efforts to safeguard their national independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as their independent foreign and domestic policies. The Central Asian states reaffirm their commitment to the one-China principle and recognize that there is only one China in the world, Taiwan is an inalienable part of Chinese territory, and the PRC government is the sole legitimate government representing the whole of China. The Central Asian states oppose “Taiwan independence” in any form and firmly support the Chinese government’s efforts to reunify the country.

    The parties reaffirmed their determination to strengthen centuries-old good-neighborliness, lasting friendship and reliable partnership, and noted the high relevance of signing a multilateral Treaty on Eternal Good-Neighborliness, Friendship and Cooperation, which will contribute to the long-term, healthy and sustainable development of relations between China and the Central Asian states.

    The Parties reaffirm their commitment to the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, including respect for the state independence, equality, sovereignty and territorial integrity of states.

    The Parties express their firm determination to uphold multilateralism, the generally recognized principles and norms of international law and international relations, promote an equal and orderly multipolar world and accessible and inclusive economic globalization, and jointly defend international justice and equality.

    The parties will make efforts to further develop fruitful, multifaceted interaction within the framework of strengthening cooperation in various areas of the “Central Asia – China” format.

    3. The heads of state of the participating countries of the Secretariat of the Central Asia-China format note the important role of the Secretariat of the Central Asia-China format in implementing the initiatives and tasks set by the heads of state, and also expressed their readiness to fully support the work of the Secretariat and provide it with favorable conditions and guarantees for development.

    The Heads of State of the participating States of the Secretariat of the Central Asia-China format, on the basis of consensus, welcome the assumption of office of Secretary-General Sun Weidong from 1 May 2025.

    4. The Parties confirm their commitment to strengthening the central role of the UN in ensuring international peace, security and sustainable development, disseminating universal human values – peace, development, justice, equality, democracy and freedom, and oppose attempts to politicize human rights issues. In this regard, they agreed to co-author the UN General Assembly resolution “On world unity for a just peace, harmony and development.”

    The parties confirm their commitment to strengthening political dialogue and cooperation within the UN and other international organizations, exchanging views and coordinating positions on current regional and international issues.

    The Parties welcome the proclamation of 2025 as the “International Year of Peace and Trust” in accordance with UN General Assembly Resolution No. 78/266 of 21 March 2024 and the holding of the “International Forum for Peace and Trust” in 2025 in Ashgabat.

    The parties welcomed the UN General Assembly Resolution declaring Central Asia a “Zone of Peace, Trust and Cooperation,” adopted at the initiative of Turkmenistan.

    The parties also welcome the adoption by the UN General Assembly of the Resolution “Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan”, dedicated to the 30th anniversary of the status of permanent neutrality of Turkmenistan.

    The Parties note the importance of developing a Global Security Strategy based on UN principles and generally recognized principles and norms of international law, taking into account current realities and trends in global inequality.

    The Parties reaffirm their strong commitment to the principles and objectives of international humanitarian law and highly appreciate the efforts of Kazakhstan and China as co-initiators of the Global Initiative to Strengthen Political Commitment to International Humanitarian Law. The Parties take note of the Global Initiative aimed at strengthening the principles of humanity and creating conditions conducive to achieving peace and breaking the endless cycle of violence in armed conflicts.

    The parties participating in the SCO support China’s chairmanship of the SCO in 2024-2025 and are ready to provide all possible assistance in the successful holding of the SCO Summit in Tianjin.

    5. The parties highly value the “One Belt, One Road” initiative and will continue to increase work to align this initiative with their national development strategies for the Central Asian states.

    6. The Parties shall make efforts to strengthen the multilateral trading system based on WTO rules, support the adaptation of international trade rules to the changing world, and promote the liberalization and simplification of trade and investment procedures.

    The Parties reaffirm the importance of intensifying the WTO discussion on development issues and emphasize the need to support open, inclusive, sustainable, resilient, diversified and secure global supply chains.

    WTO member states also support the aspirations of Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan to join the WTO.

    The interested parties intend to develop cooperation in six priority areas, including unimpeded trade, industry, investment, infrastructure connectivity, green subsoil use and agricultural modernization, and simplification of mutual travel for citizens.

    The parties note the significant potential for trade and economic cooperation between the countries of the Format, express their readiness to use the role of the meeting of ministers of economy and trade “Central Asia – China”, promote high-quality development of trade, promote diversification of trade structure and simplification of trade procedures, update agreements on the promotion and mutual protection of investments between the countries of Central Asia and China, reveal the potential of the working group on unimpeded trade, the Roundtable on Digital Trade and the mechanism “Dialogue on Cooperation in the Field of Electronic Commerce”, as well as intensify interaction in new industries.

    The parties intend to strengthen investment and industrial cooperation in the field of “green” minerals, alternative energy sources and infrastructure projects, as well as in ensuring the stable and uninterrupted operation of the production chain in the region. The parties expressed interest in strengthening exchanges and cooperation in housing and communal construction, increasing the interconnectivity of digital and green infrastructure, and jointly developing cooperation in the field of infrastructure and engineering construction.

    The parties will continue their efforts to increase the contribution of the Central Asian states and China to ensuring international energy and food security, to develop international transport and logistics routes, and to prevent disruptions in the supply of key products.

    The parties intend to expand the possibilities of transport corridors and cargo containerization in every possible way to simplify transportation as much as possible, strengthen cooperation in the framework of container train movement along the China-Europe route through Central Asia, develop transit and logistics potential, and promote joint projects that serve the interests of the states in the region.

    The parties welcome the start of the implementation of the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway project, which is of great importance for the Central Asian region and China.

    The Parties are interested in the active use of the Turkmenbashi International Sea Port and the Aktau International Sea Trade Port by large transport and logistics companies of the Parties when transporting goods.

    The parties, with the active participation of multimodal operators and based on geographical location, are developing a logistics mechanism for the railway, automobile and maritime industries in order to develop regular container transportation to expand the export of goods from Central Asian countries and further to world markets.

    The parties welcomed the holding of the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDC 3) in Turkmenistan in 2025.

    The Parties support raising the level of favourable conditions for international road transport by digitalising permits for international road transport and jointly increasing the exchange of experience and cooperation in the field of sustainable transport.

    The parties noted the importance of the established Central Asia-China Business Council and expressed their readiness to support trade promotion agencies, chambers of commerce and interested organizations in strengthening cooperation in the areas of trade and investment in order to make a greater contribution to the development of trade and economic cooperation between the Central Asian states and China.

    The parties noted the important role of the Central Asia-China Industrial and Investment Cooperation Forum in promoting investment cooperation between the Central Asian states and China, expanding industrial cooperation, and ensuring the stability and efficiency of production and supply chains.

    The parties highly appreciate the mechanism of the meeting of heads of customs services within the framework of the “Central Asia-China” format, are ready to expand the exchange of experience and mutual cooperation in the implementation of the “Smart Customs, Smart Borders and Smart Communications” project, effectively promote practical cooperation in the field of interconnection of relevant services within the framework of the work of checkpoints, “single window”, risk management, simplification of customs procedures, mutual assistance in customs matters.

    7. The Parties believe that building and expanding scientific and technological partnerships and continuously deepening scientific and technological cooperation based on complementary advantages and mutual benefits are of great importance.

    The parties are ready to further intensify the dialogue on scientific and technological development, regularly exchange information on national strategies, priority areas and programs for scientific and technological development, share development experience, and support the holding of the China (XUAR)-Central Asia Cooperation Forum on Scientific and Technological Innovation.

    The parties will actively support exchanges between research institutes and employees, the establishment of a network of partner institutes for the implementation of joint and exemplary projects on the application of technologies, and the creation of platforms for interaction on this basis.

    The Parties support efforts to transfer technology and implement scientific and technological achievements in order to promote economic and social development through scientific and technological innovation.

    The parties shall strengthen cooperation in the field of science and technology, including the exchange of best practices.

    China welcomes the participation of the Parties in the Group of Friends of International Cooperation on AI Capacity Building. The Parties are willing to jointly promote the implementation of the UN General Assembly Resolution on Strengthening International Cooperation on AI Capacity Building.

    The parties noted the importance of the draft UN General Assembly Resolution “The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Creating New Opportunities for Socioeconomic Development and Acceleration of the Achievement of the SDGs in Central Asia,” initiated by Tajikistan.

    8. The Parties express their readiness to utilize the potential of cooperation in the field of agriculture, including promoting investment in agriculture, industry interaction and cooperation in the field of trade in agricultural products. The Chinese side welcomes the active promotion of agricultural products of Central Asian countries, including through such important exhibitions as the China International Import Expo in Shanghai.

    The parties will intensify efforts in the development of “smart” agriculture, exchange of experience in the implementation of water-saving, green and other highly efficient technologies, as well as best practices in this area.

    The parties agreed to intensify the exchange of technologies and specialists in the field of melioration of arid, saline and alkaline soils, water-saving irrigation, pest control, livestock farming and veterinary medicine, and to strengthen the stress resistance of the agricultural sector with the aim of its sustainable development.

    The Parties reaffirm the need for concerted efforts to ensure food security in the context of a changing climate, and also note the importance of farming in the most environmentally friendly ways that support biodiversity and make efficient use of land resources.

    The parties welcomed the UN General Assembly Resolution “Central Asia Facing Environmental Challenges: Strengthening Regional Solidarity for Sustainable Development and Prosperity”, adopted at the initiative of the Republic of Uzbekistan, which confirms that climate change is one of the most complex problems of our time and creates serious difficulties on the path to sustainable development of all countries.

    The parties also welcomed the UN General Assembly Resolutions “Promoting sustainable forest management, including afforestation and reforestation, on degraded lands, including in drylands, as an effective solution to environmental problems” and “The United Nations Decade of Afforestation and Reforestation in accordance with the Principles of Sustainable Forest Management (2027-2036)”, adopted at the initiative of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

    The parties note the importance of consolidating efforts to improve policies in the area of poverty reduction, increasing employment and incomes of the population and creating jobs. The parties expressed their readiness to intensify cooperation in this area by implementing effective social support programs for the population, exchanging specialists and modern methodologies.

    9. The parties support the establishment of a Central Asia-China partnership on energy development, strengthening cooperation along the entire industrial chain, further expanding cooperation in traditional energy sources, including oil, natural gas and coal, strengthening cooperation in hydropower, solar, wind, hydrogen and other environmentally friendly energy sources, deepening cooperation in the peaceful use of nuclear energy, implementing projects using green technologies and clean energy sources, and implementing the concept of innovative, coordinated, green, open and common development.

    The Parties highlight cooperation in the energy sector as an important component of sustainable development of the region. The Parties express their readiness to continue deepening energy cooperation for the purpose of joint high-quality development of the energy industry of all countries in the spirit of mutually beneficial cooperation and taking into account the interests of the Parties.

    10. The interested parties support further expansion of cooperation between China and the Central Asian states along the entire industrial chain of development and use of mineral resources. The Parties will explore the possibility, within the framework of the current legislation of the Parties, of conducting joint work on geological research, exploration of mineral resources and the development of green subsoil use.

    11. The Parties confirm their readiness to hold joint events in such areas as culture, cultural heritage and tourism. The Parties also intend to expand youth exchange mechanisms, develop cooperation in conducting joint archaeological expeditions, research into the history and heritage of the Great Silk Road, preserving and restoring cultural heritage, museum exchanges, and searching for and returning missing and stolen cultural valuables.

    The parties highly appreciated the successful holding of the International High-Level Conference on Glacier Conservation, as well as the documents adopted following the results of this conference (Dushanbe, May 29-31, 2025).

    The parties also welcomed the decision of the UNESCO General Conference to hold its 43rd session in Samarkand in 2025. This event will be an important step in advancing UNESCO’s global agenda and promoting international dialogue in the field of cultural, educational and scientific cooperation.

    The Parties will support the holding of youth festivals, forums and sports competitions, including the organization of the World Nomad Games in 2026, initiated by the Kyrgyz Republic, as a unique event that promotes traditional sports and cultural diversity.

    Interested parties will continue their efforts to mutually establish cultural centers.

    The parties support the joint practice of declaring cultural and tourist capitals in the “Central Asia-China” format.

    The parties highly appreciate the successful holding of the first meeting of education ministers in the “Central Asia – China” format.

    The parties support cooperation between higher education institutions and businesses, the integration of production and education, and the acceleration of the implementation of international cooperation projects in vocational training, including within the framework of the Lu Ban Workshop.

    The Parties support joint scientific research by higher education institutions in such areas as energy, agriculture, medicine and healthcare, and artificial intelligence. The Parties support the establishment of Confucius Institutes and the teaching of the Chinese language in Central Asian countries.

    The parties highly appreciate the establishment by China of the Central Asia-China Poverty Alleviation Cooperation Center, the Central Asia-China Education Exchange and Cooperation Center, the Central Asia-China Desertification Cooperation Center, and the Central Asia-China Unimpeded Trade Cooperation Platform.

    The parties noted the initiative of the Republic of Kazakhstan to create a Global Coalition on Primary Health Care, the purpose of which is to support the fundamental reorientation of health systems towards primary health care throughout the world.

    12. The Parties reaffirmed their commitment to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Paris Agreement, which are the main platform and legal basis for the international community to make joint efforts to combat climate change, and emphasized the need to comply with the goals, principles and institutional framework enshrined in the Framework Convention and the Paris Agreement, in particular the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities, and to promote the full and effective implementation of the provisions of the Framework Convention and the Paris Agreement with an emphasis on the formation of a fair, rational, cooperative and generally beneficial global climate governance system.

    The parties expressed their readiness to hold dialogues within the framework of the “Central Asia – China” format to study the issue of developing and implementing measures to preserve biological diversity and adapt to climate change.

    The parties noted the importance of implementing the Resolution adopted at the 77th session of the UN General Assembly “Sustainable Mountain Development”, which declared 2023-2027 the “Five Years of Action for Mountain Development”, in order to strengthen international cooperation on the mountain agenda and its further effective implementation.

    The parties welcomed the initiatives of the Kyrgyz side aimed at promoting the issues of the mountain agenda and climate change, as well as the holding of the “High-Level Dialogue: Advancing the Mountain Agenda and Mainstreaming the Theme of Mountains and Climate Change” on the sidelines of COP-29 on November 13, 2024 in Baku, and expressed their readiness to explore the possibility of joining the “Declaration on Climate Change, Mountains and Glaciers” initiated by the Kyrgyz side, presented during the said Dialogue.

    The parties took into account the proposal of the Tajik side to create transboundary specially protected natural areas, transboundary corridors and buffer zones for the conservation of individual species of fauna, the restoration and maintenance of populations of rare endangered and migratory species of animals, as well as the exchange of relevant experience and technologies.

    The parties welcomed the accession of Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan to the Mountain Partnership Negotiating Group, representing the interests of mountain countries on the basis of the UNFCCC.

    The Parties welcome the successful holding of the International Conference “Global Mountain Dialogue for Sustainable Development” in Bishkek on 24-25 April 2025, and also support the holding of the World Mountain Youth Festival (August 2025) and the Second Global Mountain Summit “Bishkek 25” (2027) in the Kyrgyz Republic.

    The parties welcome the initiative to open a regional climate technology center for Central Asia under the auspices of the UN in Ashgabat as a platform for the transfer of technologies for adaptation to climate change and mitigation of its consequences.

    The parties noted the significance of the results of the First Climate Forum, held in Samarkand on April 4-5, 2025, as an important step towards deepening regional dialogue and coordinating approaches to the climate agenda.

    The Parties welcome the successful holding of the Central Asian Climate Change Conference 2025 in Ashgabat in May 2025 on the theme “Achieving the global goal on climate finance through regional and national actions in Central Asia”.

    The parties support the holding of the Regional Climate Summit in Kazakhstan in 2026 under the auspices of the UN, which will give new impetus to climate action in Central Asia and consolidate the climate efforts of the countries of the region.

    In this regard, the Parties call for exploring ways of cooperation within the framework of the Project Office for Central Asia on Climate Change and Green Energy, whose work is aimed at accelerating the climate transition in Central Asia through support for policies, innovation and partnership.

    13. The Parties believe that stability, development and prosperity in Central Asia meet the common interests of the peoples not only of the six countries, but of the entire world community.

    While strongly condemning terrorism, separatism and extremism in all their forms and manifestations, the Parties expressed their readiness to work together to combat the “three forces of evil”, in particular the cross-border movement of terrorist groups, illegal drug trafficking, transnational organized crime and cybercrime, to ensure the stable and successful progress of cooperation projects and to jointly counteract security threats.

    The parties consider the platform for dialogue on security within the framework of the Dushanbe process on combating terrorism, as well as the initiative put forward by Tajikistan “Decade of Strengthening Peace for Future Generations”, to be important.

    The parties will take joint measures to strengthen cooperation in the field of environmental protection, prevention of large-scale disasters and crises, joint response to the epidemiological situation, as well as in other relevant areas of security.

    The parties confirmed the importance of UN General Assembly Resolution 72/283 of 22 June 2018 on strengthening regional and international cooperation to ensure peace, stability and sustainable development in Central Asia, adopted at the initiative of Uzbekistan.

    The parties welcomed the UN General Assembly Resolution “Readiness of Central Asian countries to act as a united front and cooperate to effectively address and eliminate drug-related problems,” adopted at the initiative of Uzbekistan.

    The parties noted the need to strengthen cybersecurity in the region against the backdrop of the rapid development of information technology and artificial intelligence. The parties intend to use the infrastructure of IT parks in Central Asian countries to implement innovations, launch startups, conduct joint projects and exchange experiences.

    The parties expressed their readiness to regularly exchange information, as well as to apply best practices and advanced experience aimed at ensuring the stable functioning of the information infrastructure in the region.

    The parties are ready, together with the international community, to continue to provide assistance to the people of Afghanistan in maintaining peace and stability, restoring social infrastructure, and integrating into the regional and global economic system.

    The Parties support and advocate the development of Afghanistan as a peaceful, stable, prosperous country free from terrorism and drugs.

    The Parties reaffirm their commitment to actively participate in the Doha process under the auspices of the UN and welcome the efforts in this area undertaken by UNAMA and the UN Office on Drugs and Crime.

    The parties welcomed the inclusion of the regional humanitarian logistics centre in Termez, Republic of Uzbekistan, into the UNHCR global network of warehouses for emergency humanitarian response, which will strengthen the ability of the international community to quickly deliver essential supplies to internally displaced persons around the world.

    The Parties highly appreciate the efforts of Kazakhstan to institutionalize the initiative to establish in Almaty the UN Regional Centre for Sustainable Development Goals for Central Asia and Afghanistan with the aim of accelerating the achievement of the SDGs in the region and addressing development challenges in Afghanistan, and also welcome the efforts of the Government of Tajikistan to provide its logistical capabilities for the delivery of international humanitarian aid to the people of Afghanistan.

    The Parties welcomed Turkmenistan’s efforts to create appropriate conditions for the transportation of goods to/from Afghanistan, as well as humanitarian aid through its territory. In this regard, the Parties highly appreciated the commissioning of the Serhetabat-Turgundi and Kerki-Imamnazar railway links, as well as the start of work on the construction of a warehouse complex in the dry port of the Turgundi railway station.

    The Parties note the need for joint efforts in combating the illegal trafficking of drugs and their precursors, the problem of the spread of new psychoactive substances, including through the use of new technologies and means for these purposes, and consideration of the possibility of developing a Joint Anti-Drug Action Plan with the participation of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime.

    14. The Parties are ready to actively cooperate within the framework of the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, the Global Civilization Initiative, and, through joint efforts, accelerate the implementation of the UN Agenda for Sustainable Development, ensure peace and security in the region and throughout the world, and promote the exchange and mutual enrichment of civilizations.

    The Parties express their readiness to jointly hold relevant events based on the Resolution of the International Day of Dialogue among Civilizations adopted by the UN General Assembly, and to jointly promote the exchange and mutual enrichment of civilizations.

    The Parties support the development of a peaceful, open, secure, cooperative and orderly cyberspace within the framework of the Global Data Security Initiative, emphasize the importance of jointly promoting the Central Asia-China Digital Data Security Cooperation Initiative, deepening practical cooperation in the field of ensuring international information security, jointly combating cybercrime and cyberterrorism, emphasize the key role of the UN in countering threats in the information space, in particular relevant rules in the field of data security, support the development within the UN of universal rules of responsible behavior of states in the information space, call on the international community to sign as soon as possible the UN Comprehensive Convention on Countering the Use of Information and Communication Technologies for Criminal Purposes, approved by UN General Assembly Resolution 79/243 of December 24, 2024.

    The Parties emphasize the significant role of the Treaty on a Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone in Central Asia in strengthening the global nuclear non-proliferation regime. In this regard, the Parties note the need for further development of cooperation between countries within the framework of the Treaty, as well as the establishment of interaction with other regional nuclear-weapon-free zones in the world.

    The parties note the importance of expanding cooperation in the field of biological safety.

    The parties noted Kazakhstan’s efforts to establish the UNESCAP Digital Solutions Centre for Sustainable Development in the Asia-Pacific region.

    15. The Parties declare that, starting from the Second Central Asia-China Summit, they will hold thematic years every two years, with 2025-2026 being declared the “Years of High-Quality Development of Central Asia-China Cooperation”.

    16. The parties express their gratitude to the Kazakh side for the high level of organization of the second Central Asia-China summit.

    The parties decided to hold the third Central Asia-China summit in 2027 in China.

    President of the Republic of Kazakhstan K. Tokayev

    Chairman of the People’s Republic of China Xi Jinping

    President of the Kyrgyz Republic S. Japarov

    President of the Republic of Tajikistan E.Rahmon

    President of Turkmenistan S. Berdimuhamedov

    President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Sh. Mirziyoyev

    Astana, June 17, 2025

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Treaty on Eternal Good-Neighborliness, Friendship and Cooperation between the Republic of Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, the Republic of Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, the Republic of Uzbekistan and the People’s Republic of China

    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

    ASTANA, June 18 (Xinhua) — The second China-Central Asia Summit was held in Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan, on June 17, 2025. Below is the full text of the Treaty on Eternal Good-Neighborliness, Friendship and Cooperation among the Republic of Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, the Republic of Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, the Republic of Uzbekistan and the People’s Republic of China.

    TREATY on eternal good-neighborliness, friendship and cooperation between the Republic of Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, the Republic of Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, the Republic of Uzbekistan and the People’s Republic of China

    The Republic of Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, the Republic of Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, the Republic of Uzbekistan and the People’s Republic of China, hereinafter referred to as the Parties,

    considering that the comprehensive strengthening of good-neighborliness, friendship and mutually beneficial cooperation meets the fundamental interests of the peoples of the Parties,

    Noting that ensuring peace, stability and development in the region and strengthening comprehensive cooperation meets the common aspirations and fundamental interests of the peoples of all countries and is of great importance for Asia and the entire world,

    Reaffirming their commitment to the purposes of the Charter of the United Nations and other generally recognized principles and norms of international law,

    based on the provisions of the legislation of each Party,

    reaffirming strong support for the independence, state sovereignty, territorial integrity and principles of sovereign equality and inviolability of borders of the Parties,

    striving to ensure sustainable development of relations between the Parties and an increase in the level of cooperation between States in various areas,

    wishing to strengthen and pass on from generation to generation the friendship of the peoples of their states,

    reaffirming their commitment to jointly creating a closer community of shared destiny for Central Asia and China,

    agreed on the following:

    Article 1

    The Parties, in accordance with the generally recognized principles and norms of international law, shall comprehensively develop long-term and strong strategic partnership relations based on the principles of mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, mutual non-aggression, non-interference in internal affairs, equality, mutual benefit and peaceful coexistence.

    The Parties also confirm the mutual non-use of force or threat of force, and the peaceful settlement of disputes.

    Article 2

    The parties comprehensively strengthen mutual trust and strategic interaction, support each other in choosing development paths and models that correspond to their national realities, support each other’s positions on key issues affecting their fundamental interests, and support the economic development strategies being implemented.

    Article 3

    The Parties, respecting the principles of state sovereignty and territorial integrity, shall take measures to prevent any activity on their territory that is contrary to these principles.

    The Parties do not participate in alliances or blocs directed against other Parties, and do not support any actions hostile to other Parties.

    Article 4

    The parties attach great importance to holding political consultations and use the mechanism of meetings at all levels, including visits at the highest and high levels, to regularly exchange and coordinate positions on relations between the Central Asian countries and China, global and regional issues of mutual interest.

    Article 5

    The parties are ready to develop cooperation on the principles of equality and mutual benefit in such areas as trade, economics, investment, infrastructure connectivity, engineering, energy, including hydropower, renewable energy sources, transport, minerals, agriculture, environmental protection, processing industry, science and technology, and in other areas of mutual interest.

    Article 6

    The Parties shall take the necessary measures to develop exchanges and cooperation in the fields of culture, education, healthcare and medical services, tourism, sports, mass media, as well as in other areas of mutual interest.

    Article 7

    The Parties, in accordance with their legislation and international obligations, develop cooperation in bilateral and multilateral formats in the joint fight against terrorism, separatism, extremism and transnational organized crime, illegal migration, illegal trafficking of weapons and narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances and their precursors.

    Article 8

    The Parties, in accordance with their legislation and international obligations, shall strengthen mutual trust in the areas of defense, defense industry and security, and shall expand bilateral and multilateral cooperation on other issues in these areas.

    Article 9

    The Parties shall strengthen contacts and interaction within the framework of the United Nations and other multilateral organizations and mechanisms of which they are members, and shall make efforts to ensure global and regional peace, stability and sustainable development.

    Article 10

    Any disputes and disagreements that may arise during the interpretation and implementation of this Agreement shall be resolved by the Parties through friendly negotiations and consultations.

    Article 11

    This Treaty does not affect the rights and obligations of the Parties arising from other bilateral and multilateral international treaties to which they are parties, and is not directed against any third state.

    Article 12

    In order to implement the provisions of this Agreement, the Parties shall, if necessary, conclude separate international agreements in specific areas of cooperation of mutual interest.

    Article 13

    By agreement of the Parties, amendments and additions may be made to this Agreement, which shall be formalized in separate protocols that shall be an integral part thereof.

    Article 14

    The depositary of this Treaty shall be the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China.

    The Depository shall send a certified copy of this Agreement to all signatory Parties within 15 (fifteen) days from the date of its signing.

    Article 15

    This Agreement is concluded for an indefinite period and shall enter into force on the date of receipt by the depositary through diplomatic channels of the last written notification of the completion by the Parties of the internal state procedures necessary for the entry into force of this Agreement.

    The Depository shall notify the Parties of the date of entry into force of this Agreement.

    Each Party shall have the right to withdraw from this Agreement by notifying the Depository in writing through diplomatic channels.

    In relation to such Party, this Agreement shall terminate upon expiration of 12 (twelve) months from the date of receipt of such notice by the depository. The depository shall notify the other Parties of such decision.

    The Depository shall inform the other Parties of the termination of this Agreement with respect to such Party.

    Done in the city of Astana on June 17, 2025, in one copy in the Russian and Chinese languages, both texts being equally authentic.

    For the Republic of Kazakhstan K. Tokayev

    For the People’s Republic of China Xi Jinping

    For the Kyrgyz Republic S. Japarov

    For the Republic of Tajikistan E.Rahmon

    For Turkmenistan S. Berdimuhamedov

    For the Republic of Uzbekistan Sh. Mirziyoyev

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: High nanotechnology: Polytechnic scientists presented research results at the Elbrus Educational and Scientific Complex

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    Representatives of the Higher School of Engineering and Physics of SPbPU – professor, advisor to the rector’s office Alexey Filimonov and associate professor Vyacheslav Bondarenko – took part in the work of the XV International Scientific and Technical Conference “Micro- and Nanotechnologies in Electronics”, which was held in the Elbrus Educational and Scientific Complex of the Kabardino-Balkarian State University named after Kh. M. Berbekov.

    At the conference, representatives of the scientific community from different regions of Russia, as well as Azerbaijan and Belarus, discussed current issues in research into the structure and properties of nanomaterials and nanosystems, and prospects for their application. 82 reports were presented on topics such as: physical and chemical properties of materials and structures of micro- and nanoelectronics; phase equilibria and transformations in materials of electronic equipment; technologies of nanomaterials and thin-film structures for micro- and nanoelectronics; devices and instruments; information and digital intelligent technologies and mathematical modeling in micro- and nanoelectronics.

    Alexey Filimonov gave a plenary report on the topic “Nanoheterogeneous structures in solid solutions of antiferroelectrics and their dynamic nature”. Antiferroelectrics and their solid solutions have been known for almost 70 years. For a long time, the main attention was attracted by solid solutions of the PbZrxTi1-xO3 (PZT) type in the field of morphotropic compositions demonstrating ferroelectric properties and high values of piezoelectric coefficients. In the last two decades, compounds that are antiferroelectrics at room temperature have attracted great interest. The reason is the broad prospects for using such materials in fast capacitor-type electrical energy storage systems, as well as for creating electrocaloric devices or the basis for information storage systems on nanodomains and, first of all, on domain walls. The reason for using these materials is their high “compliance” with respect to external influences, due to the complex mesoscopic structure of the compounds.

    Alexey Filimonov presented the results of a comprehensive study of incommensurate, modulated and nanodomain structures in PbZr1-xTixO3 crystals using synchrotron radiation scattering methods, which have been carried out for many years at the SPbPU Research and Educational Center for Physics of Nanocomposite Materials in Electronic Engineering together with colleagues from the Ioffe Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences. The speaker presented the formation of antiphase domains of the antiferroelectric phase, antiphase domain boundaries and the effect of an electric field on them. In solid solutions of such compounds, polar antiphase domain boundaries with a width of about 4 nm are formed in the antiferroelectric phase, which can be oriented in a given direction upon cooling and application of an electric field. In solid solutions of antiferroelectrics of this group, a complex system of modulated and disproportionate structures arises, which are very labile with respect to external influences, which determines their high prospects for practical use.

    Vyacheslav Bondarenko in the report “Natural size effect on the surface of alloyed III-nitrids in conditions of self-compensation” highlighted the problem of contact phenomena on the boundaries of semiconductor structures that is relevant for modern microelectronics. Nitriand technologies conquer the world. Already now, on the basis of the III-nitrides (Aln, Gan, Inn), devices of power microwave electronics and optoelectronic devices in the short-wave region of the spectrum are produced. Due to a number of electrophysical parameters of the indicated nitride materials, for example, the corresponding powerful field transistors with high -moving two -dimensional electronic gas can operate at frequencies of up to 100 GHz at temperatures up to 400 degrees. However, the widespread introduction of nitride materials is still prevented by the complexity of the technology for growing crystals of the III-nitrides due to the lack of suitable substrates. The presence of the difference in the parameters of the lattices means that synthesized crystals, as a rule, contain more than a billion linear defects (dislocations) of inconsistencies on a square centimeter of the surface. Dislocations in the III-nitrides-electrical defects-have a compensating effect and form random electric fields that modify the properties of the surface of the semiconductor data and contact structures, where the dimensional effects are significant. In the previously conducted studies, it was found that in the wide range of semiconductor systems on the surface and in contacts, there is a natural dimensional effect – the comparability of the lengths of screenings and the average distance between charged defects.

    The report considered the natural size effect on the surface of alloyed III-nitrides using n-type gallium nitride as an example. It was shown that at high degrees of self-compensation, inhomogeneities of charged dislocation fields dominate on the surface. Thus, technologically permissible densities of misfit dislocations were established.

    The conference participants went on an excursion to the Baksan Neutrino Observatory of the Institute for Nuclear Research of the Russian Academy of Sciences. This is the first (operating since 1973) and one of two large-scale underground laboratories operating in the world today, including a complex of unique installations that complement each other for interdisciplinary research at the intersection of fundamental physics, astrophysics and geophysics. Only in laboratories located deep underground can an extremely low level of background radiation be achieved, which is necessary for the majority of key studies in the field of neutrino physics and experiments aimed at searching for rare events in the physics of elementary particles. Only underground laboratories can provide conditions for the creation of ultra-low-background gamma spectrometers for determining trace amounts of radioactive impurities in materials used in low-background experiments.

    In general, the works presented at the conference covered both the results of fundamental studies of the structure and properties of nanomaterials and nanosystems, and methods of their practical application. Based on the results of the conference, a collection of materials was published, posted on the Internet and indexed in the Russian Science Citation Index.

    Photo: KVSU.ru

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Contemporary Antiquity. Premiere of the play “Lysistrata” at the Shalom Theatre

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    “Lysistrata” is a story about women who spoke out against the situation of their time and backed up their words with deeds. A fantastic story for Ancient Greece, when women not only decided to intervene in state affairs, but also proposed a program of social transformation and achieved stunning success in this.

    After 75 years, the only professional Jewish theater in the country for all nationalities returned to the center of the capital, opening its second venue this winter at 23 Novoslobodskaya Street. As a basis for the first premiere in the new building, Shalom’s artistic director, director Oleg Lipovetsky, chose the ancient Greek comedy by Aristophanes, one of the most famous ancient authors whose works have survived to this day. We tell you what came of it.

    Antiquity is a synonym for eternity

    It is known that the ancient Greeks loved comedy and tragedy equally. Playwrights competed at the festivities in honor of Dionysus, showing the public the passions and twists of various plots. In comedies, buffoonery, obscenities and masks became the expression of acute social issues, allowing authors to express themselves in a satirical form, polemicizing with opponents – poets, politicians, philosophers. Aristophanes himself mercilessly ridiculed the public figure Cleon, whom his contemporaries suspected of corruption and theft, carrying out the feud with him through such works as “The Riders” and “The Babylonians”. And in “Clouds” the playwright mercilessly went over the teachings of the sophists, popular at that time. At the same time, comedy was supposed to entertain and distract the public from pressing problems, and therefore brought laughter and joy specific to its time. According to Oleg Lipovetsky, a person’s heart opens when he laughs, and if his heart is open, you can talk to him about serious things. This form of presentation remains relevant to this day.

    Aristophanes wrote Lysistrata during the protracted Peloponnesian War, when the Athenians were suffering from defeats in battle and misfortunes that had befallen the city. Ancient Greece was fragmented, the city-states formed coalitions and fought desperately among themselves. The peaceful inhabitants were struggling with hunger, their souls and bodies demanded circuses and bread. Then Aristophanes decided to invent a heroine who would change the course of history, at least in his imagination.

    Women’s revolt in ancient Greek

    Exhausted and enraged by the endless civil strife, Lysistrata gathers representatives of other cities for a women’s council to convince them of the need to take radical measures in the name of saving Greece: to refuse any intimacy with their chosen ones until they stop the bloodshed and return home in peace. Here one could reproach the comedy writer for manipulating basic instincts, but the ancient Greeks were not only not embarrassed by such details, but also encouraged them in every possible way, including detailed visual embodiments through props on the stage.

    Oleg Lipovetsky’s stage version culturally reworks Aristophanes’ plot, repeating and developing it. Here the beautiful Biotinians, Corinthians, Milesians and Thebans gather at the call of the Athenian Lysistrata, here they almost faint from her daring proposal, and here, following the mighty Spartan, they agree to support the uprising. Here it is necessary to note the brilliant performance of Yevgeny Ovchinnikov, who embodies the athlete Lampito, and the eloquent homage to the ancient Greek theater, where all roles, including female ones, were played by men.

    Then the comedy plays out like clockwork: in one corner of the ring there is a group of enraged and at the same time confused men in military uniform with a touch of Greek cyberpunk, in the other – gorgeous young ladies, stubbornly determined to hold the Acropolis at any cost. Their eclectic attire also refers to famous dystopias, eloquently hinting at the true timelessness of what is happening. Male and female collide like fire and water, and this battle of the elements shakes the rectangular space of the stage, supported by antique columns. The action, however, is not limited to these limits, boldly moving to the upper tiers of the hall, taking the heroes to the side benches and encouraging them to interact with the audience: at any moment the viewer can be asked about his health and asked for a glass of water for those in need. Thus, the director, as usual, gets rid of the fourth wall in the theatre, and this technique works without fail, involving the viewer even more in what is happening.

    “The Distaff of the Union” as a Powerful Symbol of Creation

    Aristophanes speaks of creation, and Elizaveta Potapova’s Lysistrata echoes him, calling for weaving a single canvas of peaceful coexistence from all the cities. Each character has individual traits, liveliness and depth thanks to the fine work of the actors, who create multi-layered images even in secondary roles, filigree playing out witty inserts-sketches that expand the action, but it is the main character who reveals her motivation most fully. Oleg Lipovetsky adds a detail to his version that makes the heart ache: at the peak of the farcical game, after an important scene at a meeting of politicians, where women have come to express their point of view, and the subsequent musical suffering for loved ones, there is suddenly silence. And in this silence appears little Lysistrata, together with her adult version, heartfeltly telling the backstory of the character. The reception against the background of the fast, energetic rhythm of the performance sounds deafening.

    There is no difference between the long past and the distant future, there is no greater thirst for man than the desire to live. In the play’s program, the compilers provide a brief historical background on other similar strikes, when women acted in a similar way to achieve social, political and cultural changes. The results are impressive!

    And who are the judges?

    There is an interesting character in the play, played by Sergei Shadrin. “Everything should work for the story, I work for it,” the actor emphasizes. The chorus, also a referee, also a mediator, also a celestial being in the literal and figurative sense, since it wears a gilded crown on its head, lives mainly on the upper tier of the hall and comes on stage only for short but bright performances (as was the case, for example, with the song “Call me, call” in the film “Carnival”). There are quite a few allusions from different areas of art here, which will be interesting for an attentive viewer. This helps to connect even more emotionally to the process through a cultural code that finds expression in recognizable references.

    The chorus does not simply direct the action, reworking the classical structure of the composition of ancient Greek comedy and intentionally preserving only certain parts of it so that modern audiences are more accustomed to watching. It asks important questions at the right time and supports the characters in the difficult task of finding a common language, becoming a meta-figure that does not condemn everyone else, but understands, accepts and reconciles. A higher power that gives meaning to what is happening.

    Oleg Lipovetsky said this about his play “My God!”: “There is a phrase there: “Believing is so painful that religion is like a pearl.” Do you know how a pearl is made? A grain of sand gets into a mollusk, and it envelops it because it hurts. It’s the same here: theater cannot exist without form, without the packaging in which we present these thoughts. Content is metal, and the form in which we forge the metal, the edge, is already form, it is theater.” In the play “Lysistrata,” the content is love, and its form only needs room for a step forward.

    You can buy tickets atMos.ru.

    Get the latest news quicklyofficial telegram channelthe city of Moscow.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: “Active Citizens” will evaluate the venues of the “Teatralny Boulevard” festival

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The Active Citizen project has begun new vote, in which residents will evaluate the work of the sites of the International Open Festival “Theater Boulevard”Among them are the spaces on Pokrovsky, Tsvetnoy, Chistoprudny Boulevards and in the Polytechnic Museum Park.

    For the second year in a row, city streets and boulevards have become a venue for open-air performances by participants of the “Theater Boulevard”, which is taking place in the capital as part of a large-scale project “Summer in Moscow”This season will give residents and tourists even more vivid impressions: over 600 performances of various genres will be held at 12 venues – from classics to bold performances.

    From drama to circus performances

    All summer long, theatre companies from Russia, China, Mexico and other countries will delight guests with classical productions and surprise them with bold creative experiments. Thus, the fantasy space on Tsvetnoy Boulevard will immerse viewers in a carefree childhood. Here you can admire the skill of artists on stilts, laugh with talented clowns, and also watch performances with giant puppets or participate in immersive productions.

    Voters will also have to evaluate the beloved space of the amphitheater on Pokrovsky Boulevard. It has become a stage for dramatic productions, musicals and operettas. Here, viewers can meet foreign groups, Moscow and regional theaters, as well as actors and directors of theater and cinema.

    The space in the park of the Polytechnic Museum has become a new point of attraction for spectators. In the comfortable space of the amphitheater, student groups from leading creative universities of Russia, as well as Moscow and regional theaters, present their performances.

    The stage on Chistoprudny Boulevard differs from the stages on Pokrovsky Boulevard and in the Polytechnic Museum Park. According to Alina Pazhentseva, assistant stage producer, its main difference is the absence of an amphitheater and a chamber format. Puppet and solo show artists perform as close to the audience as possible, further immersing and involving guests in the creative process. In addition, lectures dedicated to the legends of Moscow theaters, meetings with theater and film stars, and other events are held here.

    More information about the events can be found on the festival website “Theater Boulevard” and the project page “Summer in Moscow”Many performances can be attended for free.

    The vote was prepared by the project “Active Citizen” together with the capital Department of Culture And By the Tourism CommitteeUsers with a full or standard account on the mos.ru portal can take part in it.

    Project “Active Citizen” has been operating since 2014. During this time, more than seven million people have joined it, and more than seven thousand votes have been held. Every month, 30 to 40 decisions made by Muscovites are implemented in the city. The project is being developed by the capital Department of Information Technology together with the State Institution “New Management Technologies”.

    The creation, development and operation of the e-government infrastructure, including the provision of mass socially significant services, as well as other services in electronic form, corresponds to the objectives of the national project “Data Economy and Digital Transformation of the State” and the regional project of the city of Moscow “Digital Public Administration”.

    “Book in the City”: from June 1, the capital will have places for reading, communication and creativity

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

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

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    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/155366073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Appeal for information after police car vandalised in Clapham

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Appeal after police vehicle damaged in Clapham

    Officers are appealing to the public for information after a Met police car was damaged in Clapham.

    The car was so badly damaged, with the windscreen smashed after somebody jumped on the bonnet and kicked the glass, that it cannot be used.

    Police were called to Rookery Road, by Clapham Common, at around 18:21 hrs on Saturday, 14 June to reports of an altercation.

    Once they attended one person started attacking the vehicle with others nearby joining in. Thankfully, no officers were injured and the group were dispersed at approximately 20:15hrs.

    Inspector Darren Watson, from the Local Neighbourhood Policing Team in Clapham, said:

    “One of our marked police vehicles, a vital asset in responding and protecting our community, was deliberately damaged. This has rendered the vehicle completely unusable and means there is one less police car available to respond to calls for help.

    “Those responsible have shown a complete disregard for the local community.

    “If you have any information regarding this incident or the identity of those responsible, I urge you to come forward. The information could be the crucial piece of the investigation that helps us identify the suspect and bring them to justice.”

    We’re aware of footage circulating on social media showing a teenage boy in a white top, black and orange shorts and white socks and trainers on the car.

    Anyone with information is asked to contact police by calling 101 or reporting online via our website, quoting reference 01/7614619/25.

    If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Online auction of vehicle registration marks to be held from July 3 to 7

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Online auction of vehicle registration marks to be held from July 3 to 7 (5) A VRM can only be assigned to a motor vehicle registered in the name of the purchaser. Relevant information on the Certificate of Incorporation must be provided by the successful bidder in the Purchaser Information of the Memorandum of Sale if the VRM purchased is to be registered under the name of a body corporate.

    (6) Successful bidders will receive a notification email around seven working days after payment has been confirmed and can download the Memorandum of Sale from the E-Auction. The purchaser must apply for the VRM to be assigned to a motor vehicle registered in the name of the purchaser within 12 months from the date of issue of the Memorandum of Sale. If the purchaser fails to do so within the 12-month period, in accordance with the statutory provision, the allocation of the VRM will be cancelled and a new allocation will be arranged by the TD without prior notice to the purchaser.Issued at HKT 15:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Nokia launches Autonomous Network Fabric to help customers accelerate network automation

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press release
    Nokia launches Autonomous Network Fabric to help customers accelerate network automation

    • Nokia Autonomous Network Fabric brings together all the capabilities required to accelerate the journey to full network automation in an open, cloud-native, multi-vendor environment.
    • Key features include a library of cross-domain correlated data products, telco-trained models (LLM/LAM/ML), integrated security, and AI apps for automation workflows.
    • Nokia announces an expanded collaboration with Google Cloud that will make Nokia’s Autonomous Network Fabric available to deploy anywhere customers need it, on Google Cloud, on premises, and in hybrid cloud environments.

    18 June 2025 
    Espoo, Finland – Nokia today announced its Autonomous Networks Fabric, the industry’s first suite of telco-trained AI models, integrated security, and AI apps to accelerate network automation and enable operators to easily roll out new services. Autonomous Network Fabric is a unifying intelligence layer that weaves together observability, analytics, security, and automation across every network domain; allowing a network to behave as one adaptive system, regardless of vendor, architecture, or deployment model. 

    Additionally, Nokia is announcing an expanded collaboration with Google Cloud to enable customers to deploy Nokia’s Autonomous Network Fabric as a SaaS application running on Google Cloud, on-premises with Google Distributed Cloud, and in hybrid cloud environments.
    Over the past few years, operators have started to move toward fully autonomous networks. However, they are held back by legacy systems, siloed processes, and fragmented data. With Nokia’s Autonomous Network Fabric, operators now have a fully integrated suite that features unified data management, 360-degree observability, and explainable AI. Nokia’s Autonomous Network Fabric enables automation at scale, reducing the complexity of automation while allowing operators to improve reliability and operational cost savings by quickly testing new ideas and integrating those that deliver desired benefits.  

    “As networks become more autonomous, they will require different forms of AI—from classical algorithms to language-based systems and intelligent agents—to each contribute distinct capabilities for operators. Nokia’s new tools can help operators to manage their infrastructure, services, and cyber risks by applying AI that is trained on industry-specific data and enriched with real-time situational awareness,” said Andy Hicks, Senior Principal Analyst, GlobalData. 

    Nokia’s Autonomous Networks Fabric will leverage Google Cloud’s generative AI, including Google Cloud’s Vertex AI and BigQuery, to deliver agentic-driven workflows for network operations. This includes real-time monitoring and visibility into network traffic patterns, improving subscriber experience, anomaly detection, zero-touch remediation of performance issues, and support for elastic scale-out and disaster recovery to the cloud.

    Nokia and Google Cloud are making it easier for telecom companies to run Nokia’s 5G core network on Google’s cloud infrastructure. They are also joining forces with a major European operator to build a smarter, more automated network. By combining Nokia’s telecom data and automation capabilities with Google’s AI tools, they aim to create an environment where developers can innovate and rapidly scale network automation.

    “In an era of increasingly complex and vulnerable networks, customers are eager for fully autonomous networks, which depend on good data. There is no good AI without good data. Nokia’s Autonomous Network Fabric lays the foundation and applies our deep network expertise and agentic AI-optimized workflows together with Google Cloud to accelerate customer outcomes,” said Kal De, SVP Product and Engineering, Cloud and Network Services, Nokia.

    “This is another step in our deep partnership with Nokia to strengthen network reliability, proactively detect and resolve network issues, and turn data into value for predictable and high-performing networks. Nokia’s Autonomous Network Fabric taps Nokia’s deep telecom domain knowledge combined with Google Cloud’s AI tools to provide operators with a comprehensive approach for accelerating network automation,” said Muninder Singh Sambi, Vice President and General Manager, Networking and Security, Google Cloud.

    With Nokia’s Autonomous Network Fabric, customer will benefit from the following capabilities:

    Unified Data Management: All relevant network data is collected, curated, correlated, and published as data products leveraging a data mesh architecture. Data is virtually federated with the ability to design and construct new data products rapidly in a low-code/no-code environment. Operators can use logic or AI/ML to create cutting-edge data assets that can be used and reused to power automation. 

    360-degree Observability: The Autonomous Network Fabric federates the use and distribution of data and AI across the organization, monitoring chain of custody from end to end. This ensures quality and consistency in automation. 

    Explainable AI: Powerful telco-trained LLMs support all automation through a rich knowledge engine that gives a clear reasoning for how data is interpreted, how issues are analyzed, and why certain actions are recommended.

    Visit Nokia at Booth 306 at Digital Transformation World to find out more about the future of autonomous networks and see a live demo of Nokia AN Fabric in action.    

    Multimedia, technical information and related news 
    Product Page: Nokia Autonomous Networks 
    Product Page: Nokia Data Suite

    About Nokia 
    At Nokia, we create technology that helps the world act together. 

     As a B2B technology innovation leader, we are pioneering networks that sense, think and act by leveraging our work across mobile, fixed and cloud networks. In addition, we create value with intellectual property and long-term research, led by the award-winning Nokia Bell Labs, which is celebrating 100 years of innovation.  

    With truly open architectures that seamlessly integrate into any ecosystem, our high-performance networks create new opportunities for monetization and scale. Service providers, enterprises and partners worldwide trust Nokia to deliver secure, reliable, and sustainable networks today – and work with us to create the digital services and applications of the future. 

    Media inquiries 
    Nokia Press Office 
    Email: Press.Services@nokia.com 

    Follow us on social media 
    LinkedIn X Instagram Facebook YouTube  

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Institutional Demand Supports Crypto as Bitwise marks five-year anniversary of listing its first European product

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • Five-year anniversary of Bitwise Physical Bitcoin ETP (BTCE) listing – first spot crypto ETP on Deutsche Börse Xetra
    • Use of German regulator approved prospectus, and an innovative, robust product structure contributed to broader market adoption
    • Adding value: €100 invested into BTCE at launch would now be worth over €1,0001– long-term trends continue to support investor interest in digital assets

    June 18, 2025. Frankfurt: Bitwise today celebrates the five-year anniversary of its first European product: the Bitwise Physical Bitcoin ETP (BTCE), the world’s first-ever centrally cleared Bitcoin ETP. The listing on 18 June 2020 marked Bitwise’s debut in European markets and became a catalyst for a wave of listings of crypto products on Xetra, Europe’s largest ETF trading venue.

    Bradley Duke, Head of Europe at Bitwise, said: “Reaching the five-year mark is not just a milestone, it is also a point of reflection on our long-term vision and commitment to building transparent, reliable, and secure access to digital asset investments for European investors. Bitwise is 100% focused on crypto, but many of our experts come from traditional finance, putting us in a unique position to accompany investors on their journey into this new and unique investment class. We thank the pioneering investors and partners who believed in this asset class early on, and we look forward to continuing to serve the evolving needs of the market.”

    Stephan Kraus, Head of ETF & ETP at Deutsche Boerse, said: “We congratulate Bitwise on the fifth anniversary of its Bitcoin ETP on Xetra. The listing of this pioneering product marked the start of our segment for crypto ETNs and was an important step towards giving investors access to the performance of cryptocurrencies in a regulated market environment. It was also the first centrally-cleared product of its kind in the world. As the largest trading venue for crypto ETNs in Europe, we greatly appreciate the partnership with Bitwise, and look forward to continued collaboration.”

    A market benchmark for product design and transparency

    BTCE is now one of Europe’s largest physically backed Bitcoin ETPs by assets under management and the most actively traded. Its structure — featuring full physical backing, physical redemption option, and a strict no-lending policy — has set a new standard for crypto ETP design and reflects the priorities of investors who demanded greater transparency from the outset. Bitwise is grateful to the early adopters who set high expectations and helped raise the standard across the industry.

    Transparency remains central to Bitwise’s approach. Weekly balance reports are published by an independent administrator, and the blockchain addresses of Bitwise’s primary BTC and ETH product custody wallets are publicly disclosed, enabling any investor to verify collateral levels independently. To further reduce operational risk, Bitwise pioneered a safeguard mechanism requiring all crypto and securities asset movements to be approved by an independent transaction administrator, who holds a legally enforceable veto right embedded in the Bitwise ETP structure.

    Bitwise’s management company is ISO/IEC 27001:2017 certified, reflecting its commitment to operational integrity. With no proprietary trading, Bitwise remains fully aligned with client interests.

    As cryptoassets become an accepted component of diversified portfolios, Bitwise continues to support investors with practical tools and evidence-based insights. Internal analysis shows that adding a 5% allocation to Bitcoin within a traditional 60/40 portfolio between 2014 and 2025 would have increased average annual returns from 6.2% to 10.6%, with limited impact on volatility, drawdowns, or risk-adjusted returns.
    Today, more than 250 crypto ETPs are listed across XETRA and other leading European exchanges. Bitwise’s offering has grown in tandem with investor demand, expanding beyond single asset strategies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana to include diversified crypto baskets and index-based staking ETPs.

    Bitwise products are designed to integrate seamlessly into professional portfolios, offering exposure to cryptoassets through regulated vehicles— without the operational risks of holding a physical wallet. They are also accessible to individual investors via leading brokerage platforms, with features such as physical redemption included as standard.

    Fundamental trends supporting the demand for crypto assets

    Bitwise believes that a number of fundamental trends may support the value of crypto assets over the long term. In portfolio context, digital assets can be deployed as effective hedge against inflation that is not as susceptible to fiscal or global trade political agendas as traditional currencies. Crypto is more widely accepted by Gen Z investors, who are about to benefit from a wealth transfer from some of the richest generations that ever existed. Many coins have use cases that are independent of their use as a currency. And finally, crypto assets are a welcome solution for the unbanked or underbanked, particularly in parts of the world that are politically unstable. With crypto, access to a smartphone and the internet is enough to make payments.

    Bitwise is continuing to launch innovative new products regularly, such as the Bitwise Diaman Bitcoin & Gold ETP launched in March. Bitwise ETPs can be seamlessly integrated into standard brokerage or ETF portfolio accounts and are often eligible for SIPP and ISA inclusion, making them accessible for long-term investment planning in the UK.

    Resources:

    Dedicated website for the 5 year anniversary of BTCE

    About Bitwise

    Bitwise is one of the world’s leading crypto specialist asset managers. Thousands of financial advisors, family offices, and institutional investors across the globe have partnered with us to understand and access the opportunities in crypto. Since 2017, Bitwise has established a track record of excellence, managing a broad suite of index and active solutions across ETPs, separately managed accounts, private funds, and hedge fund strategies – spanning both the U.S. and Europe.

    In Europe, for the past five years Bitwise (formerly ETC Group) has developed an extensive and innovative suite of crypto ETPs, including Europe’s most traded bitcoin ETP, or the first diversified Crypto Basket ETP replicating an MSCI digital assets index.

    This family of crypto ETPs is domiciled in Germany and issued under a base prospectus approved by BaFin. We exclusively partner with reputable entities from the traditional financial industry, ensuring that 100% of the assets are securely stored offline (cold storage) through regulated custodians.

    Our European products comprise a collection of carefully designed financial instruments that seamlessly integrate into any professional portfolio, providing comprehensive exposure to crypto as an asset class. Access is straightforward via major European stock exchanges, with primary listings on Xetra, the most liquid exchange for ETF trading in Europe. Retail investors benefit from easy access through numerous DIY/online brokers, coupled with our robust and secure physical ETP structure, which includes a redemption feature. For more information, visit http://www.bitwiseinvestments.eu

    Media contacts:

    JEA Associates
    John McLeod
    00 44 7886 920436
    john@jeaassociates.com

    Important information
    This press release does not constitute investment advice, nor does it constitute an offer or solicitation to buy financial products. This press release is issued by Bitwise Europe GmbH (“BEU”), a limited company domiciled in Germany, for information only and in accordance with all applicable laws and regulations. BEU gives no explicit or implicit assurance or guarantee regarding the fairness, accuracy, completeness, or correctness of this article or the opinions contained therein. It is advised not to rely on the fairness, accuracy, completeness, or correctness of this article or the opinions contained therein. Please note that this article is neither investment advice nor an offer or solicitation to acquire financial products or cryptocurrencies.

    Before investing in crypto Exchange Traded Products (“ETPs”), potential investors should consider the following:
    Potential investors should seek independent advice and consider relevant information contained in the base prospectus and the final terms for the ETPs, especially the risk factors. ETPs issued by BEU are suitable only for persons experienced in investing in cryptocurrencies and risks of investing can be found in the prospectus and final terms available on www.bitwiseinvestments.eu. The invested capital is at risk, and losses up to the amount invested are possible. ETPs backed by cryptocurrencies are highly volatile assets and performance is unpredictable. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. The market price of ETPs will vary and they do not offer a fixed income or match precisely the performance of the underlying cryptocurrency. Investing in ETPs involves numerous risks including general market risks relating to underlying, adverse price movements, currency, liquidity, operational, legal and regulatory risks.

    1 Bloomberg, BTCE GY, data from 18 June 2020 to 27 May 2025

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Trade and economic cooperation between XUAR and Central Asian countries continues to deepen

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    URUMQI, June 18 (Xinhua) — Trade and economic ties between northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region (XUAR) and Central Asian countries (CA) continue to deepen, with the volume of trade steadily growing, local customs officials said.

    According to the agency, in the first five months of this year, the volume of foreign trade between Xinjiang and the five Central Asian countries exceeded 100 billion yuan, which accounted for 39.4 percent of the total volume of foreign trade between China and the five Central Asian countries.

    In particular, in January-May 2025, the volume of agricultural exports from XUAR to five Central Asian countries amounted to 4.47 billion yuan, which is 100.1 percent more than a year earlier. The increased agricultural export items included such items as dried and fresh fruits, nuts, grains, vegetables, edible mushrooms, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.

    In recent years, checkpoints in XUAR have continuously deepened trade and economic contacts with Central Asian countries. For example, the Karasu checkpoint, located in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region /Northwest China/, is the only land checkpoint on the border between China and Tajikistan. In recent years, it has become an important window for exchanges and cooperation between the two countries.

    The data show that there was a significant increase in the number of people and vehicles entering and leaving China through the Karasu Port in January-May 2025. In particular, the number of commercial vehicles exported through the Karasu Port during the reporting period jumped 102.4 percent to 9,096 units.

    Urumqi Customs representative Cheng Tao noted that in the future, the customs will continue to improve the efficiency of customs clearance, fully utilize the advantages to promote stable growth of trade turnover between XUAR and Central Asian countries. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –