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Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: UNECE study identifies pathways for digital and green energy transition in South-Eastern and Eastern Europe, the Caucasus, and Central Asia

    Source: United Nations Economic Commission for Europe

    The transition to clean energy in South-Eastern and Eastern Europe, the Caucasus, and Central Asia necessitates a comprehensive overhaul of power systems, with investment needs estimated at $150 billion by 2030. However, by embracing digitalization across all sectors – from generation and transmission to distribution and end-use – and integration with renewable energy, these countries could reduce their carbon emissions by up to 70% and energy costs by as much as 80%, subject to system-wide optimization, outlines the UNECE study “Integrating twin transition with legacy energy systems”   

    The study analyses opportunities and challenges for a digital transformation of energy systems in Albania, Belarus, Georgia, Kyrgyzstan, North Macedonia, Republic of Moldova, and Ukraine, where about 60% of the total energy mix today comes from natural gas and coal.   

    The study underscores that digital solutions and innovations such as Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things, Digital Twins, and Virtual Power Plants, offer significant opportunities in managing and integrating distributed, often variable renewable energy-based resources. It also highlights potential to optimize legacy systems and enhance both cybersecurity and grid resilience. 

    This will require robust policy measures and initiatives to boost investments in advanced, resilient grids. It will also necessitate increased support for innovation and research, strategic planning and massive professional training.   

    Overcoming challenges 

    The study identifies key challenges to be addressed in the region’s largely outdated energy systems: 

    • Ageing energy infrastructure, much of which was built during the Soviet era. For example, in Belarus, over 60% of the thermal power plants are over 30 years old, resulting in high maintenance costs; in Georgia, the average age of electricity transmission lines exceeds 30 years, resulting in transmission losses estimated at 12%.  

    • Energy security risks due to dependence on fossil fuel imports. For example, the Republic of Moldova imports approximately 70% of its electricity, primarily from Romania and Ukraine; in Belarus, about 50% of energy needs are met through natural gas imports from the Russian Federation. 

    • Limited financial resources to invest in modernizing energy systems. For instance, Albania has struggled to secure funding for proposed solar and wind projects totalling approximately $300 million; in Belarus only about 5% of the necessary investments have been secured for planned RE installations; financial constraints limit modernization of ageing hydropower infrastructure in Kyrgyzstan. 

    • Lack of skilled workforce. For example, in Georgia, around 30% of energy sector professionals lack formal training in RE technologies.  

    • Climate and health impacts. For instance, Belarus emits approximately 8 million tonnes of CO2 annually from its energy sector alone, with coal-fired plants being significant contributors. North Macedonia’s reliance on coal contributes to air pollution levels among the highest in Europe.  

    Key strategies identified in the study include: 

    • Cross-border infrastructure projects, such as Trans-Caspian high-voltage direct current lines, are vital for enhancing regional energy trade and digital connectivity; 

    The report identifies three priority action areas: (1) scaling energy efficiency through retrofitting that embraces digital technologies; (2) promoting hybrid energy models that combine gas with hydrogen; and (3) advancing smart grids, standardization, and regional integration. 

    Importantly, the study promotes a human-centered approach to digitalization that  balances innovation with ethical considerations and prioritizes equity, social considerations, and long-term sustainability for a just transition. 

    From research to action 

    The study was showcased during a workshop “Assessing the readiness of the energy sector to implement smart digital energy-efficient technologies in Belarus in view of climate change mitigation” held in Minsk, Belarus, and online on 22 May 2025. The hybrid workshop, organized by UNECE in cooperation with UNDP Belarus and the Department of Energy Efficiency of the State Committee for Standardization of the Republic of Belarus, brought together over 100 participants including government officials, energy sector representatives, and international experts, to explore how smart digital tools can support energy efficiency, clean mobility, and climate action in Belarus.  

    For more information about UNECE work on Energy Efficiency, please visit: https://unece.org/sustainable-energy/energy-efficiency 

     Photo credit: Adobe Stock Images by Sergii.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Unlocking billions in private capital to tackle climate change

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Case study

    Unlocking billions in private capital to tackle climate change

    The UK’s International Climate Finance (ICF) mobilises billions in public and private funding for clean energy projects in developing countries.

    UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer speaks at the Climate Investment Funds roundtable at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan. Picture by Simon Dawson, No 10 Downing Street.

    Public finance alone is not going to fund the global energy transition. That’s why we need innovative solutions to mobilise private investment to tackle climate change.

    The Climate Investment Funds’ Capital Market Mechanism (CCMM) demonstrates how the UK is playing a leading role in mobilising the necessary finance to support developing countries in their efforts to cut carbon emissions, build renewables and adapt to climate change.

    Launched by the UK Prime Minister at COP29, the mechanism is designed to unlock billions in climate finance by leveraging future loan repayments from previous investments. It could mobilise up to $75 billion in public and private funding for new clean energy projects in developing countries and reduce global emissions.

    Read more about UK International Climate Finance.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Protecting mangroves in Madagascar and Indonesia

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Case study

    Protecting mangroves in Madagascar and Indonesia

    The UK’s International Climate Finance (ICF) supports mangrove conservation to reduce the impacts of climate change, protect biodiversity and boost livelihoods.

    Mangrove monitoring in Madagascar for the Blue Forest Initiative. Source: Leah Glass, Blue Ventures.

    Mangrove forests, found in tropical and sub-tropical coastal areas, are a vital home for endangered species such as the white breasted sea eagle and olive ridley turtles. They also support coastal communities that depend on them for their livelihoods.

    Crucially, mangroves play a key role in tackling climate change, with the ability to store up to 4 times more carbon than rainforests.

    However, mangrove forests have been in severe decline for decades. To address this, the UK government is funding the Blue Forest Initiatives programme, led by the UK non-profit Blue Ventures, to protect, restore and sustainably manage mangrove forests in Madagascar and Indonesia.

    The community-led programme is working to prevent deforestation and overfishing while supporting the livelihoods of up to 70,000 people.

    With a goal of protecting approximately 80,000 hectares of mangrove forests – an area larger than the size of 100,000 football pitches, the programme is expected to save 1.7 million tonnes of carbon dioxide from being released.

    By securing the future of these critical ecosystems, the UK is not only combatting climate change but also safeguarding biodiversity and tackling extreme poverty.

    Read more about UK International Climate Finance.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Supporting farmers to go green in Zambia

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Case study

    Supporting farmers to go green in Zambia

    The UK’s International Climate Finance (ICF) backs sustainable farming and eco-tourism in Zambia to cut emissions and create jobs.

    People working on Zambia Integrated Forest Landscapes Project.

    Since 2018, the UK has been supporting the Zambia Integrated Forest Landscapes Project (ZIFL Programme) to support rural communities in the Eastern Province of Zambia, one of the poorest regions of Africa.

    In June 2024, Zambia signed an ERPA (Emission Reductions Purchase Agreements). This agreement will ensure local people receive payments in exchange for reducing emissions.

    With a goal to cut emissions by 30 million tonnes, equivalent to the UK’s annual emissions from livestock farming, the project has already trained over 100,000 farmers in sustainable techniques like crop rotation and agroforestry.

    As well as cutting carbon, the project is also working with the Luambe and Lukusuzi National Parks to help build roads and campsites, creating rural jobs through eco-tourism and ensuring the protection of wildlife.

    UK International Climate Finance supports the Zambia Integrated Forest Landscapes Project.

    People working on Zambia Integrated Forest Landscapes Project.

    Read more about UK International Climate Finance.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Georgia: Staff Concluding Statement of the 2025 Article IV Mission

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    June 4, 2025

    A Concluding Statement describes the preliminary findings of IMF staff at the end of an official staff visit (or ‘mission’), in most cases to a member country. Missions are undertaken as part of regular (usually annual) consultations under Article IV of the IMF’s Articles of Agreement, in the context of a request to use IMF resources (borrow from the IMF), as part of discussions of staff monitored programs, or as part of other staff monitoring of economic developments.

    The authorities have consented to the publication of this statement. The views expressed in this statement are those of the IMF staff and do not necessarily represent the views of the IMF’s Executive Board. Based on the preliminary findings of this mission, staff will prepare a report that, subject to management approval, will be presented to the IMF Executive Board for discussion and decision.

    Tbilisi: An International Monetary Fund (IMF) mission led by Mr. Alejandro Hajdenberg conducted discussions for the 2025 Article IV consultation with Georgia from May 21 to June 4, 2025, in Tbilisi. At the end of the visit, Mr. Hajdenberg issued the following statement:

    Georgia’s economy has been remarkably resilient despite heightened domestic and geopolitical uncertainty. Growth approached double digits in 2024, is projected at 7.2 percent this year, and is expected to converge to its long-term trend of 5 percent. Inflation has ticked up but remains close to its 3 percent target. Meanwhile, foreign exchange reserves have recovered from last year’s lows and continued fiscal discipline has contributed to a further decline in public debt. However, risks to the outlook are elevated and challenges persist due to still high structural unemployment and income inequality. In this context, the National Bank of Georgia (NBG) should prioritize building additional reserve buffers while monitoring potential financial sector risks. Strengthening NBG’s governance and independence remains central to macroeconomic stability. Fiscal reforms should aim to raise additional revenues to finance development priorities, improve spending efficiency, and contain fiscal risks. Structural reforms should focus on sustaining strong growth and making it more inclusive, including by enhancing labor market opportunities and outcomes.

    Recent economic developments, outlook, and risks

    Economic activity has remained robust. Real GDP grew by 9.4 percent in 2024 despite domestic political tensions. Growth was driven by consumption, marking a shift from previous years when investment and net exports were the main contributors. Tourism rebounded to pre-Covid levels, while the information and communications technology (ICT) and transport sectors remained key drivers of growth, continuing to benefit from high skilled migrants and transit trade. The unemployment rate continued to decline, albeit remaining structurally high. With strong momentum continuing in the first four months of 2025, growth is projected to moderate slightly to 7.2 percent for this year before converging to its medium-term potential rate of 5 percent.

    Inflation has returned to target after undershooting for two years. Headline inflation averaged 1.8 percent over 2023 and 2024 but rose to 3.5 percent year-on-year in May 2025, mainly due to increasing food prices. Core inflation, however, remains subdued, with the NBG keeping the policy rate unchanged at 8 percent since May 2024. Inflation is projected to average 3.4 percent in 2025 and to converge to the NBG’s 3 percent target in 2026 along with easing domestic demand.

    The current account deficit narrowed in 2024 to 4.4 percent of GDP, with a similar projection for 2025, but reserve coverage remains below adequate levels. The improvement in 2024 was driven by lower imports, partly reflecting lower oil prices. Foreign direct investment (FDI) declined for the second straight year, in part reflecting the absence of new large greenfield projects. Gross international reserves have fallen from a peak of $5.4 billion in August 2023 to $4.5 billion as of April 2025––equal to 80 percent of the Fund’s Assessment of Reserve Adequacy (ARA) metric. Recent favorable inflows have allowed the NBG to offset the sizeable foreign exchange sales made before the October parliamentary elections.

    The fiscal deficit held steady at 2.4 percent of GDP in 2024, despite it being an election year, and is expected to remain unchanged in 2025. Robust tax revenues––supported by strong growth, tax policy measures in the financial and gambling sectors, and improved revenue administration––have helped finance social and capital spending. Amid stronger-than-expected economic activity, the 2025 budget target of 2.5 percent of GDP deficit is well within reach. Public debt, at 36 percent of GDP, has returned to pre-pandemic levels, with an increasing share denominated in local currency. The USD 500 million Eurobond maturing in April 2026 is expected to be rolled over smoothly.

    While uncertainty remains exceptionally high, risks to the outlook appear broadly balanced. The direct impact from tariffs imposed by the U.S. is limited as the U.S. accounts for only 2 percent of total exports—mainly ferroalloys, which are exempt. However, the indirect effects of heightened global trade tensions could be more significant. Weaker investor confidence and slower trading partner growth pose negative risks, but Georgia could benefit from lower oil prices and sustained trade diversion through its territory. A resolution of the war in Ukraine could unwind some gains linked to migration and transit trade but increased regional stability and reconstruction in Ukraine could be offsetting positive factors. Persistent domestic political uncertainty and sanctions affecting Georgia could dampen FDI, discourage tourism, and further pressure the lari. Healthy fiscal and financial sector buffers mitigate these risks.

    Monetary and exchange policies

    The NBG should maintain a broadly neutral policy stance while remaining flexible and data driven to ensure inflation expectations remain anchored. Although wage and employment growth have moderated and business confidence has weakened, heightened global uncertainty warrants caution in considering further policy rate cuts, particularly as the recent increase in domestic food prices may not prove transitory. Should inflationary pressures persist, a tightening of the policy stance may be warranted.

    Exchange rate flexibility, opportunistic reserve accumulation, and monetary policy communication should be enhanced. Efforts to rebuild reserve buffers should be sustained while allowing the exchange rate to act as a shock absorber. The NBG should continue to strengthen monetary policy transmission, effectiveness, transparency, and credibility. Communication of monetary policy should be strengthened by clarifying the NBG’s assessment of the balance of risks and how this informs policy decisions.

    Strengthening NBG governance and independence remains central to macroeconomic stability. The filling of the board vacancies and the governor position is a welcome first step. Efforts should now focus on amending the NBG law to: (i) ensure a non-executive majority on the NBG’s oversight board, (ii) limit the possibility of discretionary financial transfers to the government, and (iii) clarify and further strengthen [the NBG succession framework and] board member qualification criteria. Moving from a presidential to a collegial decision-making model is also advisable.

    Fiscal policy

    With public debt at sound levels, maintaining a broadly neutral policy stance over the medium term is appropriate. A fiscal deficit of 2.3–2.5 percent of GDP would help stabilize the debt-to-GDP ratio near its current level. The shift toward domestic debt should proceed carefully, avoiding crowding out the private sector and monitoring borrowing costs and risks linked to a stronger sovereign-bank nexus. While good progress has been made, further tax policy and administration reforms that broaden the tax base and streamline tax expenditures—supported by a stronger medium-term revenue strategy—are needed to secure revenue for spending priorities.  

    There is considerable scope to enhance spending efficiency and further strengthen public investment management (PIM). Despite elevated levels of public investment, infrastructure quality remains below that of many emerging market peers, highlighting the need for more effective implementation of PIM processes, building on recent years’ improvements. Spending on education and health could be more efficient, to achieve better outcomes at similar expenditure levels. Spending reviews could help in this regard. Social assistance is relatively generous but targeting could be improved to prioritize the most vulnerable households.

    Sustained efforts are needed to manage fiscal risks and increase fiscal transparency. The authorities have taken significant steps in enhancing the Ministry of Finance’s financial oversight of state-owned enterprises (SOEs), and maintaining this momentum will be important. Efforts should focus on legislation that would separate the state’s shareholder, regulatory, and policy functions beyond the energy sector, where implementation has recently taken place, and strengthen the corporate governance of SOEs. The authorities should address gaps in the coverage of fiscal reporting, particularly from non-market SOEs with significant fiscal risks.

    Financial sector

    Continued vigilance and reforms will help address long-standing and emerging financial sector risks. The banking system remains well capitalized and profitable, and the implementation of the IMF’s 2021 Financial Sector Assessment Program (FSAP) recommendations is nearly complete. Key priorities going forward include enhancing the consolidated supervision of financial groups—particularly non-bank subsidiaries and cross-border activities, operationalizing a fully-fledged bank resolution framework, and improving competition in financial services. The NBG continues to implement its long-term dedollarization policy to support financial stability, and recently raised the FX loan threshold for unhedged borrowers further to GEL 750,000. Nevertheless, the share of unhedged foreign currency bank loans is still high, and the deposit dedollarization trend was interrupted amid heightened political uncertainty. Banks—especially smaller ones—have faced lari funding pressures, and the cost of funding has risen, potentially weighing on profitability. Consumer loans have grown rapidly, while riskier nonbank financing—including foreign currency bond issuances by real estate developers—has increased considerably. Neither risk is assessed to be systemic at this stage, but continued close monitoring is warranted.

    Structural reforms

    Structural reforms are needed to sustain high growth and make it more inclusive and job rich. Potential growth remains constrained by structurally high long-term and youth unemployment, low educational attainment, infrastructure bottlenecks in the transport and logistics sectors, and low sectoral productivity, especially in agriculture. An aging population, outward migration, and informality pose challenges for the labor market, along with persistent income inequality. Better targeting of agricultural support, improving teacher quality, and expanding vocational training would help raise rural labor force participation and facilitate the integration of workers into the formal economy. Remittances and return migration could be better leveraged to boost productive investments and knowledge transfers from returning migrants. Continued investment in transport and logistics infrastructure, as well as coordination with regional partners to harmonize fees and procedures, are important to support long-term competitiveness. Finally, the authorities should enhance judicial independence and strengthen the autonomy of the Anti-Corruption Bureau to improve the business environment.

    The mission team would like to thank the Georgian authorities and other counterparts for their close collaboration, candid and informative discussions, and warm hospitality.

    Table 1. Georgia: Selected Economic and Financial Indicators, 2024–28

     

     

    2024

    2025

    2026

    2027

    2028

     

    Actual Projections

    National accounts and prices

    (annual percentage change; unless otherwise indicated)

    Real GDP

    9.4

    7.2

    5.3

    5.0

    5.0

    Nominal GDP (in billions of laris)

    91.9

    102.5

    111.7

    121.5

    131.9

    Nominal GDP (in billions of U.S. dollars)

    33.8

    36.7

    39.2

    41.4

    43.6

    GDP per capita (in thousands of U.S. dollars)

    9.1

    9.9

    10.6

    11.2

    11.8

    GDP deflator, period average

    3.8

    4.1

    3.5

    3.5

    3.5

    CPI, period average

    1.1

    3.4

    3.1

    3.0

    3.0

    CPI, end-of-period

    1.9

    3.6

    3.0

    3.0

    3.0

    Consolidated government operations

    (in percent of GDP)

    Revenue and grants

    28.0

    27.7

    27.8

    27.7

    27.6

    o.w. Tax revenue

    25.3

    25.0

    25.6

    25.6

    25.6

    Total Expenditure

    30.3

    30.0

    30.1

    29.9

    29.8

    Current expenditures

    22.5

    22.6

    22.5

    22.5

    22.5

    Net acquisition of nonfinancial assets

    7.7

    7.4

    7.5

    7.5

    7.3

    Net lending/borrowing (GFSM 2001)

    -2.3

    -2.3

    -2.3

    -2.3

    -2.2

    Augmented net lending/borrowing 1/

    -2.4

    -2.4

    -2.4

    -2.4

    -2.3

    Public debt

    36.1

    34.7

    34.1

    34.3

    34.5

      o.w. Foreign-currency denominated

    25.2

    23.1

    22.0

    21.7

    20.9

    Money and credit

    (annual percentage change; unless otherwise indicated)

    Credit to the private sector

    18.5

    13.7

    9.0

    8.7

    8.6

    In constant exchange rate

    17.0

    15.5

    8.5

    7.4

    7.3

    Broad money

    14.5

    13.3

    11.5

    11.3

    11.2

    Excluding FX deposits

    10.4

    13.7

    11.9

    11.7

    11.6

    Deposit dollarization (in percent of total)

    52.7

    52.1

    51.9

    51.7

    51.4

    Credit dollarization (in percent of total)

    42.9

    42.5

    42.1

    41.7

    41.3

    Credit to GDP (in percent) 2/

    66.0

    67.4

    67.4

    67.4

    67.4

    External sector

    (in percent of GDP; unless otherwise indicated)

    Current account balance (in billions of US$)

    -1.5

    -1.6

    -1.8

    -2.0

    -2.1

    Current account balance

    -4.4

    -4.4

    -4.6

    -4.8

    -4.8

    Trade balance

    -19.2

    -18.9

    -19.1

    -19.2

    -19.3

    Terms of trade (percent change)

    -2.8

    -0.2

    0.1

    -0.3

    0.5

    Gross international reserves (in billions of US$)

    4.4

    4.7

    4.9

    5.5

    6.2

    In percent of IMF ARA metric 3/

    79.6

    81.1

    82.4

    88.0

    95.5

    In months of next year’s imports

    2.7

    2.6

    2.6

    2.7

    2.9

    Gross external debt

    66.8

    62.4

    58.5

    55.9

    53.0

     Sources: Georgian authorities; and Fund staff estimates.

    1/ Augmented Net lending / borrowing = Net lending / borrowing – Budget lending.

    2/ Banking sector credit to the private sector.

    3/ IMF’s adequacy metric for assessing reserves in emerging markets.
    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Mayada Ghazala

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/06/04/06042025-mcs-georgia-staff-concluding-statement-of-the-2025-article-iv-mission

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • US-backed Gaza aid group halts distribution, UN to vote on ceasefire demand

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The U.S.-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation will not give out any aid on Wednesday as it presses Israel to boost civilian safety beyond the perimeter of its distribution sites, a day after dozens of Palestinians seeking aid were killed.

    The GHF said it has asked the Israeli military to “guide foot traffic in a way that minimizes confusion or escalation risks” near military perimeters; develop clearer guidance for civilians; and enhance training to support civilian safety.

    “Our top priority remains ensuring the safety and dignity of civilians receiving aid,” said a GHF spokesperson. An Israeli military spokesperson warned civilians against moving in areas leading to GHF sites on Wednesday, deeming them “combat zones”.

    The Israeli military said on Tuesday that it opened fire on a group of people it viewed as a threat near a GHF food aid distribution site. The International Committee of the Red Cross said at least 27 people were killed and dozens injured. The GHF said the incident was “well beyond” its site.

    Palestinians who collected food GHF boxes on Tuesday described scenes of pandemonium, with no-one overseeing the handover of supplies or checking IDs, as crowds jostled for aid.

    The U.N. Security Council is also set to vote on Wednesday on a demand for a ceasefire between Israel and Palestinian militants Hamas and humanitarian access across Gaza, where aid has trickled amid chaos and bloodshed after Israel lifted an 11-week blockade on the enclave where famine looms.

    “It is unacceptable. Civilians are risking – and in several instances losing – their lives just trying to get food,” U.N. spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said on Tuesday, adding that the aid distribution model backed by the U.S. and Israel was “all a recipe for disaster, which is exactly what is going on.”

    That model is run by the newly created GHF, which started operations in the enclave a week ago and said on Tuesday that it has given out more than seven million meals from three so-called secure distribution sites. GHF Interim Executive Director John Acree urged humanitarians in Gaza: “Work with us and we will get your aid delivered to those who are depending on it.”

    U.S. VETO?

    The U.N. and other aid groups have refused to work with the GHF because they say it is not neutral and the distribution model militarizes aid. GHF uses private U.S. security and logistics companies to get aid to the distribution sites.

    It is the latest in a string of efforts to get more aid into the enclave, where experts say the entire population of some 2.1 million people is at risk of famine. Jordan last year spearheaded humanitarian air drops, while the U.S. briefly installed a floating aid pier, but it was beset by challenges.

    The U.N. has long-blamed Israel and lawlessness in the enclave for hindering the delivery of aid into Gaza and its distribution throughout the war zone. Israel accuses Hamas of stealing aid, which the group denies.

    Israel said on Tuesday that three of its soldiers had been killed in fighting in northern Gaza. Gaza health officials said at least 18 more Palestinians were killed in other military strikes in the territory on Tuesday. Reuters could not independently verify the reports in northern and southern Gaza.

    The 10 elected members of the U.N. Security Council have asked for the 15-member body to vote on Wednesday on a draft resolution that demands “an immediate, unconditional and permanent ceasefire in Gaza respected by all parties.”

    The draft text, seen by Reuters, also demands the release of all hostages held by Hamas and others, and the immediate lifting of all restrictions on the entry of aid and its safe and unhindered distribution, including by the U.N., throughout Gaza.

    “The time to act has already passed,” Slovenia’s U.N. Ambassador Samuel Zbogar told Reuters. “It is our historical responsibility not to remain silent.”

    As U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration tries to broker a ceasefire in Gaza, it was not immediately clear if Washington would veto the draft text. A spokesperson for the U.S. mission to the U.N. said: “We cannot preview our actions currently under consideration.”

    A resolution needs nine votes in favor and no vetoes by the permanent members – the United States, Russia, China, Britain or France – to pass.

    The war in Gaza has raged since 2023 after Hamas militants killed 1,200 people in Israel in an October 7 attack and took some 250 hostages back to the enclave, according to Israeli tallies.

    Israel responded with a military campaign that has killed over 54,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza health authorities, which do not distinguish between fighters and non-combatants.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI Security: UPDATED: Fourth man arrested in connection with arsons in north London

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A fourth man has been arrested as part of an investigation into a series of fires in north London.

    A 48-year-old man [D] was arrested on Monday, 2 June at London Stansted Airport. He was initially stopped by officers under schedule 7 of the Terrorism Act, 2000, before being arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit arson with intent to endanger life.

    The arrest is connected to an investigation into a vehicle fire in NW5 on Thursday, 8 May, a fire at the entrance of a property in N7 on Sunday, 11 May and a fire at a residential address in NW5 in the early hours of Monday, 12 May.

    The man [D] has been taken to a London police station, before being released on bail to a date in July.

    The Crown Prosecution Service previously authorised charged against three other men:

    • Roman Lavrynovych 21 (06.02.04), of Sydenham, a Ukrainian national [A] was charged with three counts of arson with intent to endanger life.
    • Stanislav Carpiuc, 26 (15.07.98) of Romford, a Romanian national, [B] was charged with conspiracy to commit arson with intent to endanger life.
    • Petro Pochynok 34 (25.07.90) of north London, a Ukrainian national [C] was charged with conspiracy to commit arson with intent to endanger life.

    The three men [A-C] have been remanded in custody to next appear at the Old Bailey on Friday, 6 June.

    The investigation is being led by officers from the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command due to the fires all having connections to a high-profile public figure. Anyone with information that could assist the investigation should call police on 101 quoting CAD 441/12 May. Enquiries remain ongoing.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Panasonic TOUGHBOOK Delivers Connected Vehicle Solution For The AA

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    End-to-end management of project has increased vehicle connectivity, efficiency, and ROI for the UK’s leading vehicle breakdown service.

    Bracknell, UK. 4th June 2025 – Panasonic TOUGHBOOK has successfully completed the installation of over 2,500 ruggedised 5G routers across The AA’s roadside vehicle fleet, delivering enhanced connectivity, operational efficiency, and cost savings. The ambitious nationwide deployment of Panasonic’s Connected Vehicle solution was completed in just over nine months, and was conducted in partnership with The AA, Cradlepoint (an Ericsson company), and Gamma Telecom.

    Panasonic TOUGHBOOK managed the entire process, including overall project management, testing, installation, training, reporting, and ongoing field services maintenance for the next five years.

    Optimised Connectivity Across the UK
    Connectivity is provided in a 25-metre radius around the vehicle. By integrating a seamless twin-5G modem solution, using primary and backup SIMs, The AA can take advantage of up to 98% connectivity across the UK.

    With real-time data from multiple hardware solutions and applications – such as vehicle diagnostics, onboard cameras, and call-out information – reliant on strong, reliable connectivity, Panasonic’s solution minimises downtime and maximises efficiency at the roadside.

    It also reduces total cost of ownership for The AA, as individual cellular plans for multiple devices are not required. This helps to prevent any unexpected data usage costs, whilst removing the need to purchase multiple devices with 5G capabilities.

    To further optimise operations, Panasonic also manages Ericsson’s NetCloud Manager platform on behalf of The AA, providing real-time insights into data usage, application efficiency, and network performance. The single-pane-of-glass monitoring system provides full visibility over the entire fleet, providing The AA with real-time insights into the solution’s effectiveness.

    Maximising Efficiency at the Roadside
     For some patrols, The AA also utilises a Screen Mirroring Solution, which enables on-screen data from a TOUGHBOOK rugged device to be displayed on an infotainment screen in the front of patrol vehicles. This increases productivity, flexibility and communication for The AA’s technicians. 

    Wendy Richardson-Brooks, IT Operations Improvement & Innovation Manager at The AA, said: “This is a game-changing solution for our patrols. With our previous solution that could only connect to 3G or 4G connections, connectivity was significantly reduced, stifling productivity on the roadside. Now, with Panasonic and its partners, we have a ruggedised solution that delivers close to 100% connectivity for all of our patrols. This helps our technicians to more quickly and efficiently diagnose and repair vehicles at the roadside – increasing customer satisfaction.”

    Nick Miller, EU Sales Strategy Manager at Panasonic TOUGHBOOK, added: “This project demonstrates Panasonic’s commitment to delivering best-in-class connectivity solutions, in condensed time frame. By combining cutting-edge ruggedised routers, industry-leading network management, and a fully managed service approach, Panasonic is ensuring The AA’s fleet remains at the forefront of technological innovation.”

    For more information on Panasonic’s Connected Vehicle offering, please click here: https://eu.connect.panasonic.com/gb/en/blog/rugged-vehicle-routers-increase-connectivity-uptime-field-services

    For more information on Panasonic’s Vehicle Integration Services, please click here: https://eu.connect.panasonic.com/hu/en/toughbook-vehicle-integration-services

    Panasonic Press Contact
     Daniel Creasey
    UK &I Marketing Manager at Panasonic TOUGHBOOK
    daniel.creasey@eu.panasonic.com

    Panasonic Press Contact
     Jim Pople
    C8 Consulting
    jim@c8consulting.co.uk

    About the Panasonic Group
    Founded in 1918, and today a global leader in developing innovative technologies and solutions for wide-ranging applications in the consumer electronics, housing, devices, B2B solutions and energy sectors worldwide, the Panasonic Group switched to an operating company system on April 1, 2022, with Panasonic Holdings Corporation serving as a holding company. The Group reported consolidated net sales of Euro 51.6 billion (8,458.2 billion yen) for the year ended March 31, 2025. To learn more about the Panasonic Group, please visit: https://holdings.panasonic/global/

    About Panasonic Connect Europe GmbH
    Panasonic Connect Europe began operations on October 1st, 2021, creating a new Business-to-Business focused and agile organisation. With more than 400 employees and led by CEO Shusuke Aoki, the business aims to contribute to the success of its customers with innovative products and integrated systems and services – all designed to deliver its vision to Change Work, Advance Society and Connect to Tomorrow.

    Panasonic Connect Europe is headquartered in Wiesbaden and consist of the following business units: 

    • The Mobile Solutions Business Division helping mobile workers improve productivity with its range of Toughbook rugged notebooks, business tablets and handhelds.
    • The Media Entertainment Business Division incorporating Visual System Solutions offering a range of high brightness and reliable projectors as well as high quality displays; and Broadcast & ProAV offering Smart Live Production solutions from an end-to-end portfolio consisting of PTZ and system cameras, camcorders, the Kairos IT/IP platform, switchers and robotic solutions that are widely used for live event capture, sports production, television, and xR studios.
    • Business and Industry Solutions delivering tailored technology solutions focused on Retail, Logistics and Manufacturing. Designed to increase operational efficiency and enhance customer experience, helping businesses to perform at their best, every day.
    • Panasonic Factory Solutions Europe selling a wide range of smart factory solutions including electronics manufacturing solutions, robot and welding systems and software solutions engineering.

    For more information please visit: https://eu.connect.panasonic.com

    Please visit Panasonic Connect Europe’s LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/panasonic-connect-europe/

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: DASA-Funded Tech ‘DUCHESS’ Takes the Crown in AI Interviewing

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Case study

    DASA-Funded Tech ‘DUCHESS’ Takes the Crown in AI Interviewing

    DASA funding helped DIEM Analytics develop a robust tool for interviewing military personnel at scale

    • DUCHESS was developed before the generative AI boom, giving DIEM Analytics strategic advantage in the evolving AI landscape
    • Through multiple DASA and Dstl funded projects, the innovation evolved from an automated feedback collection tool to a sophisticated interviewing system
    • DIEM Analytics has successfully transitioned from defence consulting to creating cutting-edge AI solutions with international impact

    From Interview Challenge to AI Innovation

    Obtaining lessons learned and feedback is a vital aspect of any military activity. However, this can be a time-consuming process if done through traditional one-on-one in-person interviews.

    For instance, when naval vessels return from a deployment, only senior officers might be interviewed about lessons learned, leaving hundreds of valuable perspectives lost. But what if there was a way to capture insights from everyone on board, without the resource burden of conducting hundreds of individual interviews?

    DIEM Analytics’ DUCHESS system, developed with DASA funding, can do just that, transforming how defence organisations learn from experience.

    DASA’s Early Investment in DIEM Analytics

    Founded in 2011 as a consulting company by former Ministry of Defence staff, DIEM Analytics set out to explore whether AI could conduct the kind of dynamic interviews that normally required human expertise. Not just static surveys, but conversations that could listen to responses and generate intelligent follow-up questions and gather rich insights at scale.

    Through DASA’s “People in Defence” Themed Competition in 2019, DIEM Analytics secured their first round of funding to develop the first iteration of DUCHESS, an automated interviewing tool – years before ChatGPT and the generative AI boom.

    “We were a bit ahead of our time,” notes Dr. Jaya-Ratnam. “When we first started, talking to AI was quite an unusual experience. Now people are more used to talking to a device, and there’s a bit more understanding in the market that these things are actually really useful.”

    How DUCHESS Works

    DUCHESS uses natural language processing (NLP) technology and carefully designed defence-based interview methodology. The system begins with a set of initial open-ended questions tailored to the specific feedback scenario – whether its lessons learned from a deployment or insights during organisational transformation.

    What sets DUCHESS apart from simple surveys is its ability to analyse responses in real-time and generate relevant follow-up questions, mimicking the natural flow of a human interview.  The dynamic follow-on questions have been proven to generate an average of 63% more data than just using a static question set.

    DUCHESS in action

    Evolution Through Testing and Adaptation

    DUCHESS’ journey wasn’t straightforward. Phase 1 funding enabled the team to test their concept at scale with Royal Navy sailors returning from deployment. The positive response from this project led to phase 2 funding, where the system was deployed in a headquarters undergoing transformation.

    “For phase 2, we improved the questioning, and we enhanced the visualisations as well,” explains Dr. Jaya-Ratnam. “How we display interview data is really important, and the different use cases mean that the visual analysis is unique for each of these.”

    The system can identify key themes, sentiment patterns, and causal relationships between interview answers. These insights are then presented through customisable visualisations, allowing decision-makers to quickly grasp complex feedback from hundreds of interviews.

    Further Development and International Adoption

    When COVID-19 hit in 2020, just as phase 2 concluded, the team faced a critical barrier; their system relied on people physically sitting in front of a laptop to conduct the interview. However, with defence personnel at the time working remotely, they needed a new approach.

    “We made the decision to privately fund a cloud-hosted version,” says Dr. Jaya-Ratnam. The team invested approximately £50,000 of their own money and significant effort to adapt their technology to the new reality.

    The investment paid off. Despite being a micro-SME with just four core team members, DIEM Analytics began securing international contracts.

    “The first commercial user was the NATO Joint Analysis Lesson Learnt Centre,” says Dr. Jaya-Ratnam. “After, we secured a contract with the Canadian Air Warfare Centre which became a regular user of DUCHESS.”

    Other users included the Royal Navy, the National Physical Laboratory, and the UK’s Naval Engineering Science and Technology Centre (NEST). The Maritime Warfare Centre also requested a version for offline usage, broadening its applications further.

    In recognition of their innovation, the Royal Navy nominated DIEM for AI Innovation of the Year with Digital Leaders for two consecutive years, with the company placing in the top three in the second year (2021). 

    Embracing the AI Revolution

    When OpenAI and ChatGPT transformed the AI landscape in 2022, DIEM Analytics was perfectly positioned to capitalise on the breakthrough. Having already developed their own interview technology, they understood both the potential and limitations of these new tools.

    “We built our Version 2 of DUCHESS on OpenAI,” explains Dr. Jaya-Ratnam. “Version 2 is more conversational and engaging for users, and slicker in its work.”

    The team designed their system to be compatible with other large language models (LLMs) giving them flexibility for future AI developments. “We have built the system so you could switch in other LLMs, so we’re not completely wedded to OpenAI,” notes Dr. Jaya-Ratnam.

    Beyond Duchess: A Portfolio of Innovation

    DASA’s support for DIEM Analytics extends beyond DUCHESS. MaLFIE (Machine Learning Fuzzy-logic Integration for Explainability) was developed to address a Navy challenge from a 2018 hackathon, to not only detect anomalies at sea but explain and prioritise them. With DASA funding, MaLFIE went from concept to implementation at the National Maritime Information Centre within two years.

    Another innovation, Red Mirror, submitted through a Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) competition Intelligent Ship, received three rounds of funding. This technology predicts what an enemy asset will do next, using low-shot learning (when algorithms learn to make accurate predictions with limited training data) to rapidly build a mirror of adversary AI. To support this development, DIEM Analytics created their own drone simulation system called DR SO.

    “We have developed a sophisticated app that is similar to a commercial game,” says Dr. Jaya-Ratnam of DR SO. This technology recently secured a contract with a major prime contractor.

    A third DASA-funded innovation, Red’s Shoes, is an algorithm originally developed for the hedge fund industry that has been adapted to predict adversary commander behaviour. After proving the concept in a NATO exercise, it has been deployed with NATO’s SHAPE Team.

    The Future: Scaling Innovation

    Today, DIEM Analytics is positioning itself for broader commercial success. “We are working out how we will push DUCHESS as a commercial offering at scale,” explains Dr. Jaya-Ratnam. “We want to make it a purely SaaS offering.”

    The team is conducting market testing to identify the most promising sectors, including construction health and safety, venture capital interview processes, and pharmaceuticals.

    With DASA’s initial investment serving as the foundation supporting several innovative technologies, DIEM Analytics has transformed from a defence consultancy into a unique AI company with international reach. Their story demonstrates how targeted government support for early-stage technologies can position UK companies for success in the rapidly evolving AI landscape before that landscape was fully visible.

    “DASA funding gave us the ability to establish reference use-cases and mature the underlying technology. This became a solid foundation on which to invest our own money to create a commercial application that UK and international defence organisations, as well as commercial organisations, have used. We now have DUCHESS version 2.0 and are moving into sectors such as commercial maritime and wellbeing. Thanks to COVID our growth was slower than we wanted, but DASA gave us the leg up we needed.”

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: 113th International Labour Conference. UK Statement on Myanmar

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    113th International Labour Conference. UK Statement on Myanmar

    Joint Statement on Myanmar at the General Affairs Committee at ILC 113. Delivered by the UK’s Permanent Representative to the WTO and UN, Simon Manley.

    Chair, I have the honour of speaking on behalf of Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and my own country, the United Kingdom.

    We would firstly like to thank the ILO Office for their work on this issue, and the work of the ILO Liaison Office and its staff in Yangon who continue to work under extremely difficult circumstances.

    We also wish to extend our deepest sympathies to the people of Myanmar, who have suffered yet more hardship as a result of the terrible earthquake in March, which has seen large-scale destruction of homes, businesses and places of worship, and most sadly, the tragic loss of lives.

    Chair, at this International Labour Conference, we meet to discuss the Myanmar military regime’s ongoing intransigence in observing Convention 87 on the Freedom of Association and Protection of the Right to Organise, and Convention 29 on Forced Labour. Since the Commission of Inquiry for Myanmar was established in 2023, we have heard grave reports of continued repression of trade unions and labour rights, including through active suppression of unionization efforts, and the surveillance, harassment and dismissal of those engaging in union activities.

    Trade Unionists continue to be imprisoned, including the General Secretary of the Myanmar Industries Craft and Services Trade Union Federation, Thet Hnin Aung, whom we and the ILO Office have continued to call for the release of.

    We are also concerned by reports of continued systematic exploitation of civilians for different types of forced labour, including as porters, guides, and human shields, as well as for the cultivation, construction and maintenance of military camps, or for the provision of transport, accommodation, food and domestic work.

    Despite our calls for the Myanmar military regime to urgently address these issues, the regime has failed to address the Commission’s recommendations and continues to engage in far-reaching violations and abuses of labour laws and abuses of human rights, as laid out in ILO reporting and other UN-body findings.

    Back in March at the Governing Body we agreed, by consensus, to adopt measures in line with Article 33 of the ILO Constitution, against Myanmar. We continue to support these measures, including the establishment of a monitoring mechanism to ensure Myanmar’s compliance with the Commission’s recommendations. It is important the ILO continues to closely monitor developments in Myanmar, including the impact of recent events on workers’ incomes and livelihoods.

    Chair, we continue to believe that such measures should not exacerbate the dire humanitarian and economic situation in Myanmar, only made worse by the recent earthquake. Nor should Article 33 measures impact workers in Myanmar, who continue to suffer much hardship. International trade and business have a key role to play; businesses currently operating in Myanmar should be able to continue whilst respecting responsible business practices and human rights.

    The UK, Australia, Canada and New Zealand are committed to working with the ILO and its constituents to secure compliance by the Myanmar regime with the Commission of Inquiry’s recommendations. We call on all constituents to support the adoption of the draft resolution and ensure that the military regime urgently addresses the grave issues as laid out.

    Chair, we support the draft resolution.

    Thank you.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Biggest ever investment in city region local transport as Chancellor vows the ‘Renewal of Britain’

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    Press release

    Biggest ever investment in city region local transport as Chancellor vows the ‘Renewal of Britain’

    Working people in cities and towns from Sunderland to Solihull will benefit from the biggest investment in regional transport, as every part of the country prospers under Plan for Change.

    • Chancellor more than doubles investment in local transport in England’s city regions, delivering the biggest ever investment over the next five years.

    • Announcement comes ahead of next week’s Spending Review focused on investment in the Government’s priorities, in Britain’s renewal, and in what matters to you in the place that you live.

    Working people across the North, Midlands and the South West will benefit from the biggest ever investment in buses, trams and local train infrastructure in city regions as the Chancellor today promises the renewal of Britain to make all parts of the country better off.

    In a speech in Greater Manchester, Reeves is expected to say that “a Britain that is better off cannot rely on a handful of places forging ahead of the rest of the country,” adding that the “result of such thinking has been growth created in too few places, felt by too few people and wide gaps between regions, and between our cities and towns.”

    Reeves will say the Spending Review next week will take different choices, with investment in a “new economic model – driven by investment in all parts of the country, not just a few.”

    She will unveil the first investment announcements from the Spending Review, with £15.6 billion of funding for local transport projects in England’s city regions – including South Yorkshire, the North East, the East Midlands and Tees Valley. The funding – a more than double real-terms increase in capital spending on local transport in city regions by 2029/30 compared with 2024/25 – will empower local leaders to invest in transport projects that will make a difference to their local area.

    Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander, said:

    Today marks a watershed moment on our journey to improving transport across the North and Midlands – opening up access to jobs, growing the economy and driving up quality of life as we deliver our Plan for Change.

    For too long, people in the North and Midlands have been locked out of the investment they deserve. With £15.6bn of Government investment, we’re giving local leaders the means to drive cities, towns and communities forward, investing in Britain’s renewal so you and your family are better off.

    This long-overdue investment outside of London and the South East will see projects like the Metro extension linking Washington to Newcastle and Sunderland and the renewal South Yorkshire’s tram network linking employment and housing areas in Sheffield and Rotheram get off the ground – creating jobs, better commutes, bigger labour markets and more opportunity.

    The game-changing funding comes ahead of next week’s Spending Review when the Chancellor will set out how this government is investing in the country’s future and the priorities of working people to make every part of Britain better off.

    The five-year settlements will mean the Mayor of West Yorkshire can commit to delivering the West Yorkshire Mass Transit, which will be fully integrated with cycling, walking, bus and rail, making journeys quicker, more accessible and more reliable across the region.

    The funding will also mean the Mayor of the West Midlands can build a metro extension to Birmingham’s sports quarter, making a start on his ambitions to deliver mass transit from East Birmingham to North Solihull.

    It will also allow the Mayor of Greater Manchester to transform the Metrolink tram network, with new stops in Bury, north Manchester and Oldham and a Metrolink extension to Stockport town centre.

    The Chancellor is also expected to confirm “a step change in how government approaches and evaluates the case for investing in our regions” following a review of the Treasury’s Green Book and how it is used, “to make sure that this government gives every region a fair hearing when it comes to investments”.

    The full conclusions of the Green Book review will be published on June 11, alongside the wider Spending Review.

    Henri Murison, Chief Executive of the Northern Powerhouse Partnership, said:

    This government’s decision to back major local transport projects with serious, long-term investment will be critical to driving regional growth. The economic revival of Greater Manchester, enabled by sustained investment in the tram network in particular, has already begun to close the productivity gap with London. To build on that success and replicate it across all our regions in the North, we need to see key projects delivered – including the extension of the Metro to Washington, the replacement of the Sheffield tram fleet, and the extension of Metrolink to Stockport.

    Too many times in the past, a trade-off was made – due to limited funding – between connectivity within and between our regions. The spending rules adopted last autumn mean this government can invest in both at the same time, unlocking far greater productivity gains than prioritising one at the expense of the other.

    Jonny Haseldine, Head of Business Environment at the British Chambers of Commerce, said:

    The pathway to the strong and consistent growth the UK economy needs has to come through investment in our regions.

    That means developing regional infrastructure, including transport projects and grid connectivity, improved rail capacity and electrification of key sections of the network.

    These projects can then give firms involved in the supply chains real confidence to start planning and investing in their local economies.

    But it is critical that no corner of the UK gets left behind and regional development works in alignment with national goals.

    More information

    Mayoral breakdown of Transport for City Regions funding:

    Mayoral Combined Authority Funding allocation (27/28-31/32) (1) Projects likely to be taken forward by mayors
    West Midlands £2.4 billion Metro extension connecting Birmingham City Centre to new sports quarter, unlocking £3bn investment from private investors. This is the first phase of new mass transit from East Birmingham to North Solihull.
    West Yorkshire £2.1 billion Spades in the ground to start building West Yorkshire Mass Transit by 2028, with aim for first services by mid-2030s. Transforming six transport corridors in West Yorkshire not covered by the mass transit routes, including through new bus stations at Bradford and Wakefield
    Greater Manchester £2.5 billion Major infrastructure projects to unlock new homes, jobs and better connect communities, including growing and transforming the Metrolink tram network, with new tram stops in Bury, Manchester and Oldham and Metrolink extension to Stockport. A fully electric Bee Network, with zero emission public transport network across bikes, bus and tram by 2030, including purchase of 1,000 new electric buses. £530m to renew the tram network, providing a fleet of new, replacement vehicles, modernising tram stops, as well maintenance to improve reliability.
    South Yorkshire £1.5 billion £350m to reform South Yorkshire’s buses, with franchised buses operating in Sheffield, Doncaster and Rotherham by 2027 and across the whole of South Yorkshire by 2029.
    Liverpool City Region £1.6 billion £100m for 3 new bus rapid transit routes, to the Liverpool John Lennon Airport, Everton stadium and Anfield. Buying a brand-new fleet of buses for the city region’s franchised bus network, beginning with St Helens and the Wirral in 2026 and then Sefton, Knowsley, North and South Liverpool in 2027.
    North East £1.8 billion Metro extension linking Newcastle and Sunderland via Washington, serving one of the largest advanced manufacturing zones in the UK.
    West of England £0.8 billion £150m to improve rail infrastructure across the region, including funding to support WECA’s ambitions for increased frequency of services between Brabazon and the city centre. £200m for Mass transit development between Bristol, Bath, South Gloucestershire and North Somerset.
    Tees Valley £1.0 billion £60m for the Platform 3 extension at Middlesborough station, unblocking the local network.
    East Midlands £2.0 billion Designing a new mass transit system to connect Derby and Nottingham, encompassing road, rail and bus improvements across the Trent Arc corridor.

    (1): Some of this funding will be brought forward to 2025/26 and 2026/27 to ensure communities see the benefit of this significant investment even earlier.

    Ben Plowden, Chief Executive of Campaign for Better Transport, said:

    It’s great to see the Government investing in the local transport infrastructure that will tangibly improve the lives of millions across our city regions and particularly good to see trams being prioritised in several areas. Fast, frequent and reliable public transport is essential to unlocking opportunity and driving inclusive economic growth.

    We hope to see similar commitments to revenue funding in next week’s Spending Review, alongside support for local authorities to plan, deliver and run the high-quality transport services their communities need.

    Mark Casci, Head of Policy and Representation at West and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, said:

    This commitment to fund mass transit in West Yorkshire can be a game changer for the region.

    West Yorkshire is home to a world-class business community, but the region is held back by poor connectivity which impacts upon our productivity.

    By delivering this much needed infrastructure upgrade to the region, West Yorkshire can finally punch its weight and deliver enhanced returns for UK PLC.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Biometrics is the most profitable way to pay for transport. For the 4th year in a row!

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    As Maxim Liksutov reported, a single trip using biometrics costs 63 rubles. For comparison, payment for a “Wallet” ticket is 4 rubles higher, and for a bank card – 11 rubles higher.

    Biometrics in numbers:

    more than 400 thousand users

    over 160 thousand trips every weekday

    156 million passes since the launch of the service

    “Nowhere in the world is the most innovative biometric payment method developed on such a large scale and with such convenience as in Moscow. It is important that this is an absolutely secure service thanks to the banking level of protection. All data is securely encrypted. By the end of this year, at the request of Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin, we will connect all metro turnstiles to the face recognition payment service,” added Maxim Liksutov.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: SPbGASU and the Union of Restorers of St. Petersburg signed a cooperation agreement

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Ekaterina Voznyak, Alexandra Komissarova, Evgeny Korolev and Nadezhda Akulova

    On June 2, the Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering and the Union of Restorers of Saint Petersburg signed a cooperation agreement. The document was signed by Evgeny Korolev, Vice-Rector for Research, and Alexandra Komissarova, Deputy Director General of the Union of Restorers of Saint Petersburg.

    The activities of the Union of Restorers of St. Petersburg are aimed at preserving and restoring the architectural heritage of the Northern capital. It unites professionals in the field of complex restoration, suppliers of materials, and design organizations.

    The parties intend to cooperate in the field of science and education, popularization of cultural heritage sites, protection, preservation and popularization of historical sites and buildings, historical and cultural monuments; promote the development of the restoration industry as a complex of exclusive types of work to preserve architectural and cultural heritage; develop volunteerism.

    Following the signing ceremony, the parties outlined further steps aimed at training highly qualified professionals. Together with Evgeny Korolev and Alexandra Komissarova, the constructive dialogue was attended by the Dean of the Faculty of Architecture Ekaterina Voznyak, Advisor to the General Director of the Union of Restorers of St. Petersburg Lidiya Vernik, Associate Professor of the Department of Architectural and Urban Heritage Nadezhda Akulova.

    “We can tell about the possibilities of the SPbGASU educational programs to the members of the Union of Restorers so that they can send their employees to relevant training programs in order to improve their qualifications and develop the restoration industry of St. Petersburg. It also seems interesting to cooperate in the formation of educational programs aimed at improving the training of professional personnel involved in organizing and carrying out work on the preservation of architectural monuments. Organizations that are part of the Union of Restorers have extensive experience in restoration work, they are also valuable and interesting from the point of view of opportunities to replenish the teaching staff. Thus, we will act as a coordinator and accumulator of information on the joint activities of our organizations,” said Alexandra Komissarova.

    “The University is ready for joint activities. Those who are engaged in practical restoration and those who develop restoration science and teach future professionals must cooperate,” emphasized Evgeny Korolev.

    “The agreement was signed within the framework of the general strategy for the development of the university in the field of architectural restoration, as well as the activities of the Scientific and Educational Laboratory for the Restoration and Renovation of Architectural Heritage (NOL RAS). Our university and the Department of Architectural and Urban Heritage closely interact with the union, and now this interaction will reach a new level,” said Nadezhda Akulova, Associate Professor of the Department of Architectural and Urban Heritage.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Politics with Michelle Grattan: historian Emma Shortis warns against falling into Trump’s trade traps

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra

    Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is expected to have his first face-to-face meeting with US President Donald Trump this month, against a background of increased steel and aluminium tariffs and US pressure on Australia to boost its defence spending.

    How Australia manages the now unpredictable US relationship has become a major debate among policy experts. Some question the implications for Australia’s reliance on the US for its security.

    One voice urging Australia to “rebalance” its relationship with the US is Dr Emma Shortis, the director of the Australia Institute’s International and Security Affairs program.

    Shortis is a historian with a particular interest in the United States’ history and politics. She joins the podcast to talk about her new book, After America: Australia and the New World Order.

    On the Australia–US alliance, Shortis says Trump doesn’t think about Australia – which might be a good thing, given Canada’s experience.

    Trump doesn’t really think about the United States’ relationship with Australia. We know that. He has made it very clear. He was asked in the Oval Office about the AUKUS submarine deal, and he responded, what does that mean? He doesn’t think about Australia.

    […] We also probably have to ask ourselves, would it be a good thing if Donald Trump thought about Australia more, if he cared about us more, or gave us more attention?

    […] There’s been a subtle but a noticeable shift in language coming from the prime minister in particular, about Australia’s role in the world and about the relationship with the United States – particularly this week, saying that Australia effectively won’t be dictated to by the United States around defence spending […] In the longer history of the way Australian leaders have bent the knee to the United States, that’s a pretty significant change.

    On Albanese’s likely meeting with Trump on the sidelines of the G7 summit in Canada, Shortis cautions against making offers to Trump on critical minerals to seek a better deal on tariffs.

    It doesn’t matter what we give him. So giving away Australian sovereign resources, or offering them on the cheap without much return, is not only not great policy [… but] it doesn’t align with a strategy of progressive patriotism that the prime minister has been talking about. And I don’t think it will get us much from the United States.

    It also falls into a trap that Trump is so good at laying, which is dividing the world. Getting individual world leaders to come scraping and begging, asking for exemptions, rather than being met by a solid wall of democratic resistance to what he’s doing.

    On hopes that after Trump, America might move away from its current style of politics, Shortis argues Trump’s changes are deeper than him.

    I would also argue really strongly that the America we thought we knew, the Biden version of the United States, is not coming back any time soon. This second Trump administration is an entirely different beast from the first. Trump and particularly the people around him, the movement that supports him, see this as a generational victory for the far-right movement in the United States. And they will not give it up easily.

    […] So this idea that we can just wait him out, that we can rely on the old assumptions about the cycles of American politics, I think is something we have to be really careful with.

    Shortis argues Australia should be “a real friend” to the US and its people – which would mean speaking up when we disagree – rather than abandoning the alliance.

    I don’t think we should drop the alliance. I also don’t think that is a realistic option politically at the moment. I think the alliance does serve a purpose when it is oriented towards those shared values […] and not to a kind of poverty-stricken view of security and the prevention of war.

    […] What we can do is pursue more independence in our decision-making, which lots of other countries do. If you look around the world, not many other countries are continually asking themselves: ‘Who is going to come and protect us? Who is going to come and save us?’ That is almost a kind of uniquely Australian trait. But again one that’s not inevitable and that we can rethink.

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

    – ref. Politics with Michelle Grattan: historian Emma Shortis warns against falling into Trump’s trade traps – https://theconversation.com/politics-with-michelle-grattan-historian-emma-shortis-warns-against-falling-into-trumps-trade-traps-258174

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: The secret to Ukraine’s battlefield successes against Russia – it knows wars are never won in the past

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Matthew Sussex, Associate Professor (Adj), Griffith Asia Institute; and Fellow, Strategic and Defence Studies Centre, Australian National University

    The iconoclastic American general Douglas Macarthur once said that “wars are never won in the past”.

    That sentiment certainly seemed to ring true following Ukraine’s recent audacious attack on Russia’s strategic bomber fleet, using small, cheap drones housed in wooden pods and transported near Russian airfields in trucks.

    The synchronised operation targeted Russian Air Force planes as far away as Irkutsk – more than 5,000 kilometres from Ukraine. Early reports suggest around a third of Russia’s long-range bombers were either destroyed or badly damaged. Russian military bloggers have put the estimated losses lower, but agree the attack was catastrophic for the Russian Air Force, which has struggled to adapt to Ukrainian tactics.

    This particular attack was reportedly 18 months in the making. To keep it secret was an extraordinary feat. Notably, Kyiv did not inform the United States that the attack was in the offing. The Ukrainians judged – perhaps understandably – that sharing intelligence on their plans could have alerted the Kremlin in relatively short order.

    Ukraine’s success once again demonstrates that its armed forces and intelligence services are the modern masters of battlefield innovation and operational security.

    Finding new solutions

    Western military planners have been carefully studying Ukraine’s successes ever since its forces managed to blunt Russia’s initial onslaught deep into its territory in early 2022, and then launched a stunning counteroffensive that drove the Russian invaders back towards their original starting positions.

    There have been other lessons, too, about how the apparently weak can stand up to the strong. These include:

    • attacks on Russian President Vladimir Putin’s vanity project, the Kerch Bridge, linking the Russian mainland to occupied Crimea (the last assault occurred just days ago)

    • the relentless targeting of Russia’s oil and gas infrastructure with drones

    • attacks against targets in Moscow to remind the Russian populace about the war, and

    • its incursion into the Kursk region, which saw Ukrainian forces capture around 1,000 square kilometres of Russian territory.

    On each occasion, Western defence analysts have questioned the wisdom of Kyiv’s moves.

    Why invade Russia using your best troops when Moscow’s forces continue laying waste to cities in Ukraine?

    Why hit Russia’s energy infrastructure if it doesn’t markedly impede the battlefield mobility of Russian forces?

    And why attack symbolic targets like bridges when it could provoke Putin into dangerous “escalation”?

    The answer to this is the key to effective innovation during wartime. Ukraine’s defence and security planners have interpreted their missions – and their best possible outcomes – far more accurately than conventional wisdom would have thought.

    Above all, they have focused on winning the war they are in, rather than those of the past. This means:

    • using technological advancements to force the Russians to change their tactics

    • shaping the information environment to promote their narratives and keep vital Western aid flowing, and

    • deploying surprise attacks not just as ways to boost public morale, but also to impose disproportionate costs on the Russian state.

    The impact of Ukraine’s drone attack

    In doing so, Ukraine has had an eye for strategic effects. As the smaller nation reliant on international support, this has been the only logical choice.

    Putin has been prepared to commit a virtually inexhaustible supply of expendable cannon fodder to continue his country’s war ad infinitum. Russia has typically won its wars this way – by attrition – albeit at a tremendous human and material cost.

    That said, Ukraine’s most recent surprise attack does not change the overall contours of the war. The only person with the ability to end it is Putin himself.

    That’s why Ukraine is putting as much pressure as possible on his regime, as well as domestic and international perceptions of it. It is key to Ukraine’s theory of victory.

    This is also why the latest drone attack is so significant. Russia needs its long-range bomber fleet, not just to fire conventional cruise missiles at Ukrainian civilian and infrastructure targets, but as aerial delivery systems for its strategic nuclear arsenal.

    The destruction of even a small portion of Russia’s deterrence capability has the potential to affect its nuclear strategy. It has increasingly relied on this strategy to threaten the West.

    A second impact of the attack is psychological. The drone attacks are more likely to enrage Putin than bring him to the bargaining table. However, they reinforce to the Russian military that there are few places – even on its own soil – that its air force can act with operational impunity.

    The surprise attacks also provide a shot in the arm domestically, reminding Ukrainians they remain very much in the fight.

    Finally, the drone attacks send a signal to Western leaders. US President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance, for instance, have gone to great lengths to tell the world that Ukraine is weak and has “no cards”. This action shows Kyiv does indeed have some powerful cards to play.

    That may, of course, backfire: after all, Trump is acutely sensitive to being made to look a fool. He may look unkindly at resuming military aid to Ukraine after being shown up for saying Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky would be forced to capitulate without US support.

    But Trump’s own hubris has already done that for him. His regular claims that a peace deal is just weeks away have gone beyond wishful thinking and are now monotonous.

    Unsurprisingly, Trump’s reluctance to put anything approaching serious pressure on Putin has merely incentivised the Russian leader to string the process along.

    Indeed, Putin’s insistence on a maximalist victory, requiring Ukrainian demobilisation and disarmament without any security guarantees for Kyiv, is not diplomacy at all. It is merely the reiteration of the same unworkable demands he has made since even before Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022.

    However, Ukraine’s ability to smuggle drones undetected onto an opponent’s territory, and then unleash them all together, will pose headaches for Ukraine’s friends, as well as its enemies.

    That’s because it makes domestic intelligence and policing part of any effective defence posture. It is a contingency democracies will have to plan for, just as much as authoritarian regimes, who are also learning from Ukraine’s lessons.

    In other words, while the attack has shown up Russia’s domestic security services for failing to uncover the plan, Western security elites, as well as authoritarian ones, will now be wondering whether their own security apparatuses would be up to the job.

    The drone strikes will also likely lead to questions about how useful it is to invest in high-end and extraordinarily expensive weapons systems when they can be vulnerable. The Security Service of Ukraine estimates the damage cost Russia US$7 billion (A$10.9 billion). Ukraine’s drones, by comparison, cost a couple of thousand dollars each.

    At the very least, coming up with a suitable response to those challenges will require significant thought and effort. But as Ukraine has repeatedly shown us, you can’t win wars in the past.

    Matthew Sussex has received funding from the Australian Research Council, the Atlantic Council, the Fulbright Foundation, the Carnegie Foundation, the Lowy Institute and various Australian government departments and agencies.

    – ref. The secret to Ukraine’s battlefield successes against Russia – it knows wars are never won in the past – https://theconversation.com/the-secret-to-ukraines-battlefield-successes-against-russia-it-knows-wars-are-never-won-in-the-past-258172

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Biometrics: The Most Cost-Effective Way to Pay for Public Transport for the 4th Year Running!

    As reported by Maksim Liksutov, a single trip using biometric payment costs 63 rubles. In comparison, payment via the «Wallet» ticket is 4 rubles more expensive, and payment by bank card costs 11 rubles more.

    Biometrics by the Numbers:

    – Over 400,000 users

    – More than 160,000 trips every weekday

    – 156 million entries since the service’s launch

    Nowhere in the world is the most innovative biometric payment method as extensively and conveniently developed as it is in Moscow. Importantly, this is an absolutely secure service with bank-level protection. All data is reliably encrypted. By the end of this year, following the directive of Moscow Mayor Sergey Sobyanin, we will enable facial recognition payment at all metro turnstiles, — added Maksim Liksutov.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: President Lai and President Hilda C. Heine of Marshall Islands hold bilateral talks and witness signing of agreements

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    Details
    2025-06-03
    President Lai welcomes President Hilda C. Heine of Republic of the Marshall Islands with military honors  
    President Lai Ching-te welcomed President Hilda C. Heine of the Republic of the Marshall Islands and her husband on the morning of June 3 with full military honors. In remarks, President Lai thanked President Heine and the people and government of the Marshall Islands for demonstrating such high regard for our nations’ diplomatic ties. The president said that over our 27 years of diplomatic relations, our cooperation in healthcare, agriculture, fisheries, education and training, and climate change has yielded many positive results. And moving ahead, he said, Taiwan will continue to deepen collaboration across all domains for mutual prosperity and growth. The welcome ceremony began at 10:30 a.m. in the plaza fronting the Presidential Office. President Lai and President Heine each delivered remarks after a 21-gun salute, the playing of the two countries’ national anthems, and a review of the military honor guard. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: On behalf of the people and government of the Republic of China (Taiwan), it is a great pleasure to welcome President Heine, First Gentleman Thomas Kijiner, Jr., and their delegation with full military honors as they make this state visit to Taiwan. When I traveled to the Marshall Islands on a state visit last December, I was received with great warmth and courtesy. I once again thank President Heine and the people and government of the Marshall Islands for demonstrating such high regard for our nations’ diplomatic ties. Taiwan and the Marshall Islands share Austronesian cultural traditions, and we are like-minded friends. Throughout our 27 years of diplomatic relations, we have always engaged with each other in a spirit of reciprocal trust and mutual assistance. Our cooperation in healthcare, agriculture, fisheries, education and training, and climate change has yielded many positive results. This is President Heine’s first state visit to Taiwan since taking office for a second time. We look forward to engaging our esteemed guests in in-depth discussions on issues of common concern. And moving ahead, Taiwan will continue to deepen collaboration with the Marshall Islands across all domains for mutual prosperity and growth. In closing, I thank President Heine, First Gentleman Kijiner, and their entire delegation for visiting Taiwan. I wish you all a pleasant and successful trip.  A transcript of President Heine’s remarks follows: Your Excellency President Lai Ching-te, Vice President [Bi-khim] Hsiao, honorable members of the cabinet, ambassadors, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen: It is my pleasure to extend warm greetings of iokwe on behalf of the people and the government of the Republic of the Marshall Islands. I wish to also convey my appreciation to Your Excellency President Lai, for the hospitality and very warm welcome – kommol tata. This visit marks my seventh official state visit to this beautiful country. It’s a testament to my strong commitment to further deepening ties between the Republic of the Marshall Islands and the Republic of China (Taiwan). During this visit, I look forward to engaging in meaningful discussions with Your Excellency President Lai to further strengthen the bilateral relationship between our two nations and our peoples.  For over a quarter-century, Taiwan has been a strong ally and friend to the Marshall Islands. Our partnership has thrived across many sectors, including education, healthcare, infrastructure, and economic development. Through Taiwan’s generous support and collaboration, we have made significant progress in improving the lives of our people, empowering our communities, and fostering sustainable growth. The Marshall Islands deeply values our partnership with Taiwan and appreciates Taiwan’s support over the years. Despite our small size and limited voice on the global stage, the Marshall Islands deeply cherishes our friendship with Taiwan, and to that end, I wish to reaffirm my government’s commitment to Taiwan’s meaningful participation in the United Nations system. Taiwan has consistently demonstrated its commitment to the principles of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. In light of current constraints in global affairs, it is now more urgent than ever that the international community of nations recognize the fundamental rights of the 23 million Taiwanese people and recognize Taiwan’s aspiration to engage fully in global affairs. It is with this in mind that I wish to reiterate to Your Excellency President Lai, the Taiwanese people, and the world that under my government, Marshall Islands will continue to acknowledge Taiwan’s contribution on the global stage and urge like-minded countries to advocate for Taiwan’s meaningful engagement in the international arena. In closing, may I once again extend our sincere appreciation to Your Excellency President Lai, the people and government of the Republic of China (Taiwan), for your warm welcome.  Also in attendance at the welcome ceremony were Charge d’Affaires a.i. Anjanette Davis-Anjel of the Embassy of the Republic of the Marshall Islands, Dean of the Diplomatic Corps and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Ambassador Andrea Clare Bowman, and members of the foreign diplomatic corps in Taiwan.  

    Details
    2025-05-29
    President Lai attends 2025 Europe Day Dinner
    On the evening of May 29, President Lai Ching-te attended the 2025 Europe Day Dinner. In remarks, President Lai stated that Taiwan looks forward to further establishing institutionalized mechanisms with Europe for our trade and investment ties and hopes to take an innovative and diverse approach to sign an economic partnership agreement with the European Union, to provide a more transparent, stable, and predictable business environment for our enterprises. The president said that Taiwan will actively work alongside other democracies, including those in Europe, to jointly build resilient, promising non-red supply chains, and noted that Taiwan and Europe have endless potential for collaboration, whether it is in safeguarding freedom and democracy or advancing our economic and trade relationship. He expressed hope to further strengthen our partnership and work together toward global peace, stability, and prosperity. A transcript of President Lai’s remarks follows: Chairman [Henry] Chang (張瀚書), thank you for the invitation, and congratulations on your second term. I’m confident that under your leadership, the ECCT [European Chamber of Commerce Taiwan] will build even more bridges for cooperation between Taiwan and Europe. I would also like to thank EETO [European Economic and Trade Office] Head [Lutz] Güllner and all the European country representatives stationed in Taiwan. Your hard work over the years has helped deepen Taiwan-Europe relations and brought about such fruitful cooperation. Thank you. This year we celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Schuman Declaration. In 1950, then-French Foreign Minister Robert Schuman proposed to create a European federation dedicated to preserving peace. The declaration symbolized a new flowering in the post-war era of democracy, unity, and cooperation. As we face the geopolitical challenges and drastic economic changes of today’s world, the Schuman Declaration still speaks to us profoundly. This year is also the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe. Moving forward, Taiwan will continue to advance cooperation with our democratic partners, and will join hands with Europe to build a partnership of even greater resilience and mutual trust. Europe is Taiwan’s third largest trading partner. It is also Taiwan’s largest source of foreign direct investment. Last year, bilateral trade between Taiwan and Europe totaled US$84.7 billion. This demonstrates our vibrant economic and trade ties and reflects the high levels of confidence our businesses have in each other’s markets and systems. We look forward to Taiwan and Europe further establishing institutionalized mechanisms for our trade and investment ties. And we hope to take an innovative and diverse approach to sign an economic partnership agreement with the EU, to provide a more transparent, stable, and predictable business environment for our enterprises. Today’s Taiwan has an internationally recognized democracy and a semiconductor industry vital to global security and prosperity. This enables us to play a key role in restructuring global democratic supply chains and the economic order. In particular, we see supply chains dominated by a new authoritarian bloc expanding their influence through non-market mechanisms, price subsidies, and monopolies on resources, as they seek global control of critical technologies and manufacturing capabilities. Their actions not only distort principles of market fairness, but also threaten the international community’s basic expectations for democracy, the rule of law, and corporate responsibility. In response, Taiwan will actively work alongside other democracies, including those in Europe, to jointly build resilient, promising non-red supply chains. We will also introduce an initiative on semiconductor supply chain partnerships for global democracies. This is more than a proposal for economic cooperation; it is an alliance of shared values and advanced technology. Security in the Taiwan Strait and regional peace and stability have always been issues of mutual interest for Taiwan and Europe. So here today, on behalf of all the people of Taiwan, I would like to thank the EU and European nations for continuing to take concrete actions in public support of peace and stability across the strait. Such actions are vital to regional security and prosperity. Taiwan will continue to bolster itself to achieve real peace through strength, and will work with democratic partners to safeguard freedom and democracy, thereby showing our determination for regional peace. At this critical time, Taiwan and Europe have endless potential for collaboration, whether it’s in safeguarding freedom and democracy or advancing our economic and trade relationship. I look forward to our joining hands at this strategic juncture to further strengthen our partnership and work together toward global peace, stability, and prosperity. Also in attendance at the event was British Office Taipei Representative Ruth Bradley-Jones.

    Details
    2025-05-28
    President Lai meets US delegation led by Senator Tammy Duckworth
    On the afternoon of May 28, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by United States Senator Tammy Duckworth. In remarks, President Lai thanked the US Congress and government for their longstanding and bipartisan support for Taiwan. The president stated that Taiwan will continue to strengthen cooperation with the US and jointly safeguard regional peace and stability. He pointed out that the Taiwan government has already proposed a roadmap for deepening Taiwan-US trade ties and will encourage mutual investment between Taiwanese and US businesses. He then expressed hope of deepening Taiwan-US ties and creating more niches for both sides. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I warmly welcome this delegation led by Senator Duckworth, a dear friend of Taiwan. Senator Duckworth previously visited in May last year to convey congratulations after the inauguration of myself and Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao. Your bipartisan delegation was the first group from the US Senate that I met with as president. Today, you are visiting just after the first anniversary of my taking office, demonstrating the staunch support of the US and our deep friendship. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I extend my sincere appreciation and greetings. And I invite you to come back and visit next year, the year after that, and every year. Taiwan and the US share the values of democracy and the rule of law and believe in free and open markets. Both sides embrace a common goal of peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region. I thank the US Congress and government for their longstanding, bipartisan, and steadfast support for Taiwan. In 2021, to help Taiwan overcome the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Senator Duckworth made a special trip here to announce that the US government would be donating vaccines to Taiwan. In recent years, Senator Duckworth has also promoted the TAIWAN Security Act, STAND with Taiwan Act, and Taiwan and America Space Assistance Act in the US Congress, all of which have further deepened Taiwan-US cooperation and steadily advanced our ties. For this, I express my deepest appreciation. I want to emphasize that the people of Taiwan have an unyielding determination to protect their homeland and free and democratic way of life. Over the past year, the government and private sector have been working together to enhance Taiwan’s whole-of-society defense resilience. The government is committed to reforming national defense, and it has proposed prioritizing special budget allocations to ensure that our defense budget exceeds three percent of GDP. This will continue to bolster Taiwan’s self-defense capabilities. Moving forward, Taiwan will continue to strengthen cooperation with the US. In addition to jointly safeguarding regional peace and stability, we also aspire to deepen bilateral trade and economic ties. At the SelectUSA Investment Summit in Washington, DC, earlier this month, Taiwan’s delegation was once again the biggest delegation attending the event – proof positive of our close economic and trade cooperation. We have already proposed a roadmap for deepening Taiwan-US trade ties. We will narrow the trade imbalance through the procurement of energy and agricultural and other industrial products from the US. We will encourage mutual investment between Taiwanese and US businesses to stimulate industrial development on both sides, especially in such industries as national defense and shipbuilding. We therefore look forward to Congress passing the US-Taiwan Expedited Double-Tax Relief Act as soon as possible, as this would deepen Taiwan-US trade ties and create more niches for business. In closing, I once again thank Senator Duckworth for making the trip to Taiwan. Let us continue to work together to elevate Taiwan-US ties. I wish you a pleasant and successful visit. Senator Duckworth then delivered remarks, saying that she is happy to be back in Taiwan and that she wanted to make sure to come back just after President Lai’s one-year anniversary of taking office to show the dedication and the outstanding friendship that we have. She noted that because no matter who is in the White House, no matter which political party is in power in Washington, DC, she has always believed that if America wants to remain a leader on the global stage, it has to show up for friends like Taiwan.  Senator Duckworth mentioned that in the years that she has been coming to Taiwan since pre-COVID times, she has seen a remarkable increase in participation in its defense and the support of the Taiwanese people for defending the homeland. She then thanked Taiwan for making the commitment to its self-defense, and also for being a partner with other nations around the world.  The STAND with Taiwan Act, the senator noted, is so named because the US wants to stand side by side with Taiwan. Pointing out that Taiwan is an important leader in the Indo-Pacific and on the global stage, she reiterated that there is support on both sides of the aisle in Washington for Taiwanese democracy, and added that the people of Taiwan are showing that they are willing to shore up their own readiness. Senator Duckworth said that whether it is delivering vaccines to Taiwan or making sure that the US National Guard works with Taiwan’s reserve forces or even with its civilian emergency response teams, these are all important components to the ongoing partnership between our nations.  Senator Duckworth indicated that there are many great opportunities moving forward beyond our military cooperation with one another. Whether it is in chip manufacturing, agricultural investments, shipbuilding, or in the healthcare field, those investments in both nations will facilitate stability and development in both our nations. She said that is why she wants to continue the Taiwan-US relationship, underlining that they are in it for the long haul. The delegation was accompanied to the Presidential Office by American Institute in Taiwan Taipei Office Director Raymond Greene.

    Details
    2025-05-27
    President Lai meets delegation led by US House Natural Resources Committee Chair Bruce Westerman
    On the afternoon of May 27, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by Chair of the Natural Resources Committee of the United States House of Representatives Bruce Westerman. In remarks, President Lai stated that Taiwan and the US enjoy close industrial exchanges and continue to explore new opportunities for investment and collaboration. The president said that Taiwan will continue to increase purchases from and together build non-red supply chains with the US, expressing hope that economic and trade relations grow even closer and that both work together to jointly safeguard peace and stability throughout the region. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I am delighted to meet and exchange views with members of the US House Committee on Natural Resources today. Chair Westerman, the leader of this delegation, is an old friend of Taiwan. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I extend a very warm welcome to the delegation. I also want to thank you all for your long-term close attention to Taiwan-related affairs and your strong support for Taiwan. Taiwan and the US enjoy close ties and share ideals and values. There is an excellent foundation for cooperation between us, particularly in such areas as energy, the economy and trade, agriculture and fisheries, environmental protection, and sustainable development. In recent years, Taiwan-US ties have grown closer and closer. The US has become Taiwan’s largest destination for overseas investment, accounting for over 40 percent of Taiwan’s outbound investment. Taiwan is also the seventh largest trading partner of the US and its seventh largest export market for agricultural products. The SelectUSA Investment Summit held in Washington, DC earlier this month was the largest in its history. Taiwan’s delegation, representing 138 enterprises, was once again the biggest delegation attending the event. This shows that Taiwan and the US enjoy close industrial exchanges and continue to explore new opportunities for investment and collaboration. Looking ahead, with the global landscape changing rapidly, Taiwan will continue to increase purchases from the US, including energy resources such as natural gas and petroleum, as well as agricultural products, industrial products, and even military procurement. This will not only help balance our bilateral trade, but also strengthen development for Taiwan in energy autonomy, resilience, the economy, and trade. Taiwan and the US are also well-matched in such areas as high tech and manufacturing. As the US pursues reindustrialization and aims to become a global hub for AI, Taiwan is willing to take part and play an even more important role. We will strengthen Taiwan-US industrial cooperation and together build non-red supply chains. In addition to bringing our economic and trade relations even closer, this will also allow Taiwanese industries to remain rooted in Taiwan while expanding their global presence, helping bolster the US, and marketing worldwide. As for military exchanges, we are grateful to the US government for continuing its military sales to Taiwan and backing our efforts to upgrade our self-defense capabilities. Taiwan will continue to work with the US to jointly safeguard peace and stability throughout the region. In closing, I thank our guests once again for making the long journey here, not only offering warm friendship, but also demonstrating the staunch bipartisan support for Taiwan in the US Congress. Chair Westerman then delivered remarks, saying that it is an honor for him and his colleagues to be in Taiwan to talk about the strong relationship between the US and Taiwan and how that relationship can continue to grow in the future. The chair pointed out that natural resources are foundational to any kind of economic development, whether it is energy, which is key to manufacturing, or whether it is mining, which provides rare earth elements and all the minerals and metals needed for manufacturing. He said that as for natural resources including fish, wildlife, or timber, all are foundational to any society, but this is especially so for agriculture, noting that the US produces a lot of food and fodder and is always looking for more friends to share that with. Chair Westerman indicated that they are excited about opportunities to work with Taiwan, adding that Taiwan’s investments in the US have been greatly appreciated. He said they also are excited about the talks with the Trump administration and the future going forward on how we can have a stronger trade relationship, a stronger bilateral relationship, and how we can work with each other to help both economies grow and prosper. Chair Westerman concluded his remarks by expressing thanks for the opportunity to visit, saying that they treasure Taiwan’s friendship and our long-term relationship, and are very excited to be able to discuss in more detail how our two countries can work together. The delegation also included US House Natural Resources Committee Representatives Sarah Elfreth, Harriet Hageman, Celeste Maloy, and Nick Begich. The delegation was accompanied to the Presidential Office by American Institute in Taiwan Taipei Office Director Raymond Greene.  

    Details
    2025-05-27
    President Lai meets and hosts luncheon for delegation led by Governor Lourdes A. Leon Guerrero of Guam
    On the morning of May 27, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by Governor Lourdes A. Leon Guerrero of Guam and her husband, and hosted a luncheon for the delegation at noon. In remarks, President Lai noted that this is the governor’s first trip to Taiwan, fully demonstrating the Guam government’s support and high regard for Taiwan. The president said that Guam, being the closest United States territory to Taiwan, is an important bridge for collaboration between Taiwan and the US. He stated that aside from promoting tourism, we can also explore even more opportunities for collaboration in other areas to further advance industrial development for both sides. He said that, as we begin a new chapter, we look forward to working together to generate even more momentum in bilateral cooperation and exchanges. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I extend a warm welcome to Governor Leon Guerrero and her delegation. Last year, I transited through Guam en route for visits to Taiwan’s diplomatic allies in the Pacific. The enthusiastic reception I received from the government, legislature, people, and members of our overseas community in Guam was very touching and left me with a deep impression. During the morning tea reception hosted by Governor Leon Guerrero, we joined in singing our respective national anthems, as well as the Fanohge CHamoru. I also received at the Guam Legislature a copy of a Taiwan-friendly resolution it passed on behalf of the people of Taiwan. And I still remember to this day the striking scenery of the governor’s house and the warm reception I received there. It is therefore a great pleasure to meet with all of you today here at the Presidential Office. This is Governor Leon Guerrero’s first trip to Taiwan. Your visit fully demonstrates the Guam government’s support and high regard for Taiwan. As we begin a new chapter, we look forward to working with you to generate even more momentum in bilateral cooperation and exchanges. Taiwan and Guam are like family. We share the Austronesian spirit and culture. Our wide-ranging and mutually-beneficial collaboration is very fruitful. And now, we are facing the challenges of climate change, public health and medicine, and regional security together. The world is rapidly changing and tensions in the Indo-Pacific continue to rise. But if we combine our strengths, come together as one, and enhance cooperation, we can maintain regional peace, stability, and prosperity. Last Tuesday, I delivered an address on my first anniversary of taking office. I mentioned that for many years, Taiwan, the US, and our democratic partners have actively engaged in exchange and cooperation. Taking a market-oriented approach, we will promote an economic path of staying firmly rooted in Taiwan and expanding the global presence of our enterprises while strengthening ties with the US. Guam is the closest US territory to Taiwan. It is an important bridge for collaboration between Taiwan and the US. Last month, we were pleased to see United Airlines officially launch direct flights between Taipei and Guam. I believe this will benefit tourism and economic and trade exchanges for both sides. In the area of health care, many hospitals in Taiwan already offer referral services to patients from Guam. Both Governor Leon Guerrero and I have backgrounds in medicine. It is my hope that Taiwan and Guam can continue to work hand in hand to create even more positive outcomes from cooperation in public health and medical services. During the governor’s visit, aside from promoting tourism, we can also explore even more opportunities for collaboration in other areas. There is potential for more exchanges in aquaculture, food processing, hydroculture, manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and recycling. This will further advance industrial development in Taiwan and Guam. In closing, I thank Governor Leon Guerrero and all our distinguished guests for backing Taiwan. I wish you all a smooth and successful visit.  Governor Leon Guerrero then delivered remarks, saying that she is very happy to come to Taiwan. She said that after learning during President Lai’s visit to Guam last year that he is a medical doctor, she felt more relaxed because healthcare colleagues are one in their endeavor to help enhance the health and well-being of people. She then expressed her heartfelt appreciation for the invitation to Taiwan.  Governor Leon Guerrero said that as they learn more about opportunities for collaboration with Taiwan, they are humbled by the hospitality they have experienced. In both of our islands, she said, hospitality is more than just a custom – it forms a part of our identities. She noted that despite being nearly 2,000 miles apart, we are connected by the Pacific Ocean and common roots, and our ancestors both value family, community, and tradition. That is why being here today, she said, she feels a strong sense of familiarity, like reconnecting with old friends. The governor remarked that Taiwan has evolved so quickly in all areas of essential life, sustenance, economy, and prosperity, adding that Taiwan’s resources in such areas as health, education, data, AI, advanced technology, aquaculture, agriculture, and commerce enhance our economic stability. She stated her belief that in collaboration and support, and working with each other, we can gain prosperity, maintain freedom and democracy, and live in peace.  Governor Leon Guerrero stated that their delegation is here to see how they can partner with Taiwan to help raise the quality of life for both our peoples, mentioning that one special concern of theirs is tourism. Tourism, she said, is the most influential engine and driver for the economy and quality of life in Guam, but they cannot have a vibrant economy and tourism without air connectivity. She added that they are prepared to help in any way to provide incentives and low-cost fees so that they can get more airlines from Taiwan to establish permanent flight schedules to Guam, so as to drive development in Guam’s tourism industry. Governor Leon Guerrero then proceeded to introduce each of the members of her delegation before remarking that while they have been very busy on this visit they are always reminded of the freedom and democracy that the people must protect. She said she looks forward to a great, strong relationship between Taiwan and Guam in cooperation on social and economic issues, in culture, marketing, tourism, and freedom and democracy. Among those in attendance were First Gentleman Jeffrey A. Cook, Chief of Staff Jon Junior Calvo, Director of the Department of Administration Edward Birn, General Manager of the Guam Visitors Bureau Regine Biscoe Lee, Deputy Executive Manager of the Guam International Airport Authority Artemio “Ricky” Hernandez, Board of Directors Chairman of the Guam International Airport Authority Brian J. Bamba, Deputy General Manager of the Guam Economic Development Authority Carlos Bordallo, Director of Landscape Management Systems Guam Bob Salas, Chairperson of the Guam Chamber of Commerce Tae Oh, President of the University of Guam Anita Borja Enriquez, and Director of the Guam Taiwan Office Felix Yen (嚴樹芬). After the meeting, President Lai, accompanied by Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao, hosted a luncheon for Governor Leon Guerrero, her husband, and the delegation.

    Details
    2025-05-20
    President Lai interviewed by Nippon Television and Yomiuri TV
    In a recent interview on Nippon Television’s news zero program, President Lai Ching-te responded to questions from host Mr. Sakurai Sho and Yomiuri TV Shanghai Bureau Chief Watanabe Masayo on topics including reflections on his first year in office, cross-strait relations, China’s military threats, Taiwan-United States relations, and Taiwan-Japan relations. The interview was broadcast on the evening of May 19. During the interview, President Lai stated that China intends to change the world’s rules-based international order, and that if Taiwan were invaded, global supply chains would be disrupted. Therefore, he said, Taiwan will strengthen its national defense, prevent war by preparing for war, and achieve the goal of peace. The president also noted that Taiwan’s purpose for developing drones is based on national security and industrial needs, and that Taiwan hopes to collaborate with Japan. He then reiterated that China’s threats are an international problem, and expressed hope to work together with the US, Japan, and others in the global democratic community to prevent China from starting a war. Following is the text of the questions and the president’s responses: Q: How do you feel as you are about to round out your first year in office? President Lai: When I was young, I was determined to practice medicine and save lives. When I left medicine to go into politics, I was determined to transform Taiwan. And when I was sworn in as president on May 20 last year, I was determined to strengthen the nation. Time flies, and it has already been a year. Although the process has been very challenging, I am deeply honored to be a part of it. I am also profoundly grateful to our citizens for allowing me the opportunity to give back to our country. The future will certainly be full of more challenges, but I will do everything I can to unite the people and continue strengthening the nation. That is how I am feeling now. Q: We are now coming up on the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, and over this period, we have often heard that conflict between Taiwan and the mainland is imminent. Do you personally believe that a cross-strait conflict could happen? President Lai: The international community is very much aware that China intends to replace the US and change the world’s rules-based international order, and annexing Taiwan is just the first step. So, as China’s military power grows stronger, some members of the international community are naturally on edge about whether a cross-strait conflict will break out. The international community must certainly do everything in its power to avoid a conflict in the Taiwan Strait; there is too great a cost. Besides causing direct disasters to both Taiwan and China, the impact on the global economy would be even greater, with estimated losses of US$10 trillion from war alone – that is roughly 10 percent of the global GDP. Additionally, 20 percent of global shipping passes through the Taiwan Strait and surrounding waters, so if a conflict breaks out in the strait, other countries including Japan and Korea would suffer a grave impact. For Japan and Korea, a quarter of external transit passes through the Taiwan Strait and surrounding waters, and a third of the various energy resources and minerals shipped back from other countries pass through said areas. If Taiwan were invaded, global supply chains would be disrupted, and therefore conflict in the Taiwan Strait must be avoided. Such a conflict is indeed avoidable. I am very thankful to Prime Minister of Japan Ishiba Shigeru and former Prime Ministers Abe Shinzo, Suga Yoshihide, and Kishida Fumio, as well as US President Donald Trump and former President Joe Biden, and the other G7 leaders, for continuing to emphasize at international venues that peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait are essential components for global security and prosperity. When everyone in the global democratic community works together, stacking up enough strength to make China’s objectives unattainable or to make the cost of invading Taiwan too high for it to bear, a conflict in the strait can naturally be avoided. Q: As you said, President Lai, maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait is also very important for other countries. How can war be avoided? What sort of countermeasures is Taiwan prepared to take to prevent war? President Lai: As Mr. Sakurai mentioned earlier, we are coming up on the 80th anniversary of the end of WWII. There are many lessons we can take from that war. First is that peace is priceless, and war has no winners. From the tragedies of WWII, there are lessons that humanity should learn. We must pursue peace, and not start wars blindly, as that would be a major disaster for humanity. In other words, we must be determined to safeguard peace. The second lesson is that we cannot be complacent toward authoritarian powers. If you give them an inch, they will take a mile. They will keep growing, and eventually, not only will peace be unattainable, but war will be inevitable. The third lesson is why WWII ended: It ended because different groups joined together in solidarity. Taiwan, Japan, and the Indo-Pacific region are all directly subjected to China’s threats, so we hope to be able to join together in cooperation. This is why we proposed the Four Pillars of Peace action plan. First, we will strengthen our national defense. Second, we will strengthen economic resilience. Third is standing shoulder to shoulder with the democratic community to demonstrate the strength of deterrence. Fourth is that as long as China treats Taiwan with parity and dignity, Taiwan is willing to conduct exchanges and cooperate with China, and seek peace and mutual prosperity. These four pillars can help us avoid war and achieve peace. That is to say, Taiwan hopes to achieve peace through strength, prevent war by preparing for war, keeping war from happening and pursuing the goal of peace. Q: Regarding drones, everyone knows that recently, Taiwan has been actively researching, developing, and introducing drones. Why do you need to actively research, develop, and introduce new drones at this time? President Lai: This is for two purposes. The first is to meet national security needs. The second is to meet industrial development needs. Because Taiwan, Japan, and the Philippines are all part of the first island chain, and we are all democratic nations, we cannot be like an authoritarian country like China, which has an unlimited national defense budget. In this kind of situation, island nations such as Taiwan, Japan, and the Philippines should leverage their own technologies to develop national defense methods that are asymmetric and utilize unmanned vehicles. In particular, from the Russo-Ukrainian War, we see that Ukraine has successfully utilized unmanned vehicles to protect itself and prevent Russia from unlimited invasion. In other words, the Russo-Ukrainian War has already proven the importance of drones. Therefore, the first purpose of developing drones is based on national security needs. Second, the world has already entered the era of smart technology. Whether generative, agentic, or physical, AI will continue to develop. In the future, cars and ships will also evolve into unmanned vehicles and unmanned boats, and there will be unmanned factories. Drones will even be able to assist with postal deliveries, or services like Uber, Uber Eats, and foodpanda, or agricultural irrigation and pesticide spraying. Therefore, in the future era of comprehensive smart technology, developing unmanned vehicles is a necessity. Taiwan, based on industrial needs, is actively planning the development of drones and unmanned vehicles. I would like to take this opportunity to express Taiwan’s hope to collaborate with Japan in the unmanned vehicle industry. Just as we do in the semiconductor industry, where Japan has raw materials, equipment, and technology, and Taiwan has wafer manufacturing, our two countries can cooperate. Japan is a technological power, and Taiwan also has significant technological strengths. If Taiwan and Japan work together, we will not only be able to safeguard peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and security in the Indo-Pacific region, but it will also be very helpful for the industrial development of both countries. Q: The drones you just described probably include examples from the Russo-Ukrainian War. Taiwan and China are separated by the Taiwan Strait. Do our drones need to have cross-sea flight capabilities? President Lai: Taiwan does not intend to counterattack the mainland, and does not intend to invade any country. Taiwan’s drones are meant to protect our own nation and territory. Q: Former President Biden previously stated that US forces would assist Taiwan’s defense in the event of an attack. President Trump, however, has yet to clearly state that the US would help defend Taiwan. Do you think that in such an event, the US would help defend Taiwan? Or is Taiwan now trying to persuade the US? President Lai: Former President Biden and President Trump have answered questions from reporters. Although their responses were different, strong cooperation with Taiwan under the Biden administration has continued under the Trump administration; there has been no change. During President Trump’s first term, cooperation with Taiwan was broader and deeper compared to former President Barack Obama’s terms. After former President Biden took office, cooperation with Taiwan increased compared to President Trump’s first term. Now, during President Trump’s second term, cooperation with Taiwan is even greater than under former President Biden. Taiwan-US cooperation continues to grow stronger, and has not changed just because President Trump and former President Biden gave different responses to reporters. Furthermore, the Trump administration publicly stated that in the future, the US will shift its strategic focus from Europe to the Indo-Pacific. The US secretary of defense even publicly stated that the primary mission of the US is to prevent China from invading Taiwan, maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific, and thus maintain world peace. There is a saying in Taiwan that goes, “Help comes most to those who help themselves.” Before asking friends and allies for assistance in facing threats from China, Taiwan must first be determined and prepared to defend itself. This is Taiwan’s principle, and we are working in this direction, making all the necessary preparations to safeguard the nation. Q: I would like to ask you a question about Taiwan-Japan relations. After the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011, you made an appeal to give Japan a great deal of assistance and care. In particular, you visited Sendai to offer condolences. Later, you also expressed condolences and concern after the earthquakes in Aomori and Kumamoto. What are your expectations for future Taiwan-Japan exchanges and development? President Lai: I come from Tainan, and my constituency is in Tainan. Tainan has very deep ties with Japan, and of course, Taiwan also has deep ties with Japan. However, among Taiwan’s 22 counties and cities, Tainan has the deepest relationship with Japan. I sincerely hope that both of you and your teams will have an opportunity to visit Tainan. I will introduce Tainan’s scenery, including architecture from the era of Japanese rule, Tainan’s cuisine, and unique aspects of Tainan society, and you can also see lifestyles and culture from the Showa era.  The Wushantou Reservoir in Tainan was completed by engineer Mr. Hatta Yoichi from Kanazawa, Japan and the team he led to Tainan after he graduated from then-Tokyo Imperial University. It has nearly a century of history and is still in use today. This reservoir, along with the 16,000-km-long Chianan Canal, transformed the 150,000-hectare Chianan Plain into Taiwan’s premier rice-growing area. It was that foundation in agriculture that enabled Taiwan to develop industry and the technology sector of today. The reservoir continues to supply water to Tainan Science Park. It is used by residents of Tainan, the agricultural sector, and industry, and even the technology sector in Xinshi Industrial Park, as well as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company. Because of this, the people of Tainan are deeply grateful for Mr. Hatta and very friendly toward the people of Japan. A major earthquake, the largest in 50 years, struck Tainan on February 6, 2016, resulting in significant casualties. As mayor of Tainan at the time, I was extremely grateful to then-Prime Minister Abe, who sent five Japanese officials to the disaster site in Tainan the day after the earthquake. They were very thoughtful and asked what kind of assistance we needed from the Japanese government. They offered to provide help based on what we needed. I was deeply moved, as former Prime Minister Abe showed such care, going beyond the formality of just sending supplies that we may or may not have actually needed. Instead, the officials asked what we needed and then provided assistance based on those needs, which really moved me. Similarly, when the Great East Japan Earthquake of 2011 or the later Kumamoto earthquakes struck, the people of Tainan, under my leadership, naturally and dutifully expressed their support. Even earlier, when central Taiwan was hit by a major earthquake in 1999, Japan was the first country to deploy a rescue team to the disaster area. On February 6, 2018, after a major earthquake in Hualien, former Prime Minister Abe appeared in a video holding up a message of encouragement he had written in calligraphy saying “Remain strong, Taiwan.” All of Taiwan was deeply moved. Over the years, Taiwan and Japan have supported each other when earthquakes struck, and have forged bonds that are family-like, not just neighborly. This is truly valuable. In the future, I hope Taiwan and Japan can be like brothers, and that the peoples of Taiwan and Japan can treat one another like family. If Taiwan has a problem, then Japan has a problem; if Japan has a problem, then Taiwan has a problem. By caring for and helping each other, we can face various challenges and difficulties, and pursue a brighter future. Q: President Lai, you just used the phrase “If Taiwan has a problem, then Japan has a problem.” In the event that China attempts to invade Taiwan by force, what kind of response measures would you hope the US military and Japan’s Self-Defense Forces take? President Lai: As I just mentioned, annexing Taiwan is only China’s first step. Its ultimate objective is to change the rules-based international order. That being the case, China’s threats are an international problem. So, I would very much hope to work together with the US, Japan, and others in the global democratic community to prevent China from starting a war – prevention, after all, is more important than cure.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Open Innovation Team PhD Placement Scheme 2026

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Open Innovation Team PhD Placement Scheme 2026

    We’ve hosted more than 150 PhD students since 2016, with many going on to policy jobs in government and think tanks

    Apply here

    Applications for our 2026 placements in both policy and evaluation are now open.  To apply, please complete the application form.

    Applications will close at 12pm on Tuesday 1 July.

    About the team

    The Open Innovation Team (OIT) is a cross-government unit that works on a wide range of policies, including health, justice, education, sustainability, energy, international development, and artificial intelligence. This year, the team has launched a new evaluation service which will evaluate the impact of policies across a range of areas. 

    For years now, PhD students have played an important role in helping us deliver policy projects, working alongside experienced officials, academics and other experts to deliver the highest quality analysis and advice to colleagues across government.

    Alongside our policy placements, we are offering placements in the OIT’s Evaluation Services Unit (ESU). The ESU uses a range of methods – quantitative, quasi-experimental as well as qualitative and theory-based – to evaluate government policy and assess its impacts. No prior experience of evaluation methodologies is required, though some knowledge of quantitative and/or relevant qualitative research methods is desirable for this placement.

    Our PhD placements run throughout the year, spread across four cohorts. Placements normally last three months, with around 30 placement opportunities each year. Find out what our previous PhD placement students thought of their time with the Open Innovation Team here.

    About the placement 

    PhD placements work on a diverse range of policy projects and are not expected to have prior experience of policy or knowledge of the policy area that they are asked to work on. This year, there may be additional opportunities to work on the evaluation of policies with the Team’s new evaluation service.  

    Successful applicants should expect to:

    • make significant contributions to the policy and evaluation work the team carries out 
    • help plan and deliver our events, bringing together academic experts and policymakers to work through policy problems 
    • assess and synthesise evidence and research, and learn how to present this for policymaking audiences

    Students will also get the chance to help the team raise its profile, create new products and services for policy colleagues and deliver training and advice to academics. 

    All PhD placement work aims to build skills and provide students with an insight to what it’s like to work on policy and in government.

    The application process 

    There are three stages to the application process. All applicants must complete the initial application form. Those successful at this stage will be invited to complete an online written test. Those successful at the written test will pass onto the final interview stage.

    Drop in sessions

    If you would like to find out more about the placement, we will be running two Q&A drop-in sessions, which anyone is welcome to join:

    Essential conditions for applicants 

    To be considered, you must be studying on a PhD programme at a UK university, and be in a position to take up the placement prior to your expected viva date. The placements are full time for the 3-month period. 

    You must also secure funding to cover the cost of the placement from your university, PhD funding body or other suitable organisation. 

    Successful applicants, on receipt of a placement offer, will be expected to be able to pass BPSS security clearance. 

    Apply for our 2026 PhD placements scheme here

    Follow our LinkedIn page for the latest OIT news.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Economic Proposals for Dundee

    Source: Scotland – City of Dundee

    Two economic proposals could be developed for Dundee, if councillors approve reports.  

    They will consider whether early engagement should begin on a potential visitor levy for the city.  

    And elected members are also being asked to agree to the council playing a role in efforts to establish a Business Improvement District (BID) in the city centre.  

    Two separate reports into these issues will come before the Fair Work, Economic Growth and Infrastructure Committee at its next meeting.  

    On the visitor levy, the committee will hear that under the Visitor Levy (Scotland) Act, councils can establish a scheme to raise funds that should be “re-invested locally on facilities and services substantially for or used by visitors”.  

    Scottish Government guidelines give local authorities the power to determine the rate of the levy, where it applies and the maximum number of nights to apply the levy to visitors.  

    The committee is being asked to approve early engagement with local businesses, residents and other relevant parties to inform a draft scheme for the city.  Work would be carried out to assess the potential income that could be generated by a levy.  

    Results would be reported back to councillors by next spring, and they would then decide on whether to proceed onto the formal consultation stage.   

    The committee will hear that early and ongoing engagement with those most likely impacted by the possibility of the introduction of a levy scheme in Dundee is fundamental.  The visitor economy in Dundee is continuing to develop.  There were 1.35 million visits to Dundee in 2023 with an average length of stay of 2.6 days.  The economic impact of the visitor economy is £243 million per annum, with the sector supporting 3500 jobs.  

    Meanwhile, on the Business Improvement District, the committee will hear that the long-term City Centre Strategic Investment Plan is designed to encourage growth in the city centre and requires close work with private sector interests.    

    A BID is a business led initiative within a defined area where businesses work together and collectively invest funds raised by a levy on non-domestic rates. The levy is used for projects and improvements which must be additional to services already provided by the local authority.  

    A steering group of businesses interested in a Dundee BID has been formed, with administrative support provided through Dundee & Angus Chamber of Commerce.   

    The steering group has set a provisional date for a ballot of businesses on the issue in March next year.  

    Councillors are being asked to agree that senior officers will engage in the BID process and provide support and guidance on technical aspects, including collection and management of the levy.  

    Committee convener Councillor Steven Rome said: “These reports outline the very early stages of what could be significant developments for Dundee.  

    “We need to carefully consider the views of everyone who expresses an opinion about these matters.  

    “Both the visitor levy and the Business Improvement District have the potential to be transformative, but we have to take each step at a time.  

    “There is a real shared desire to make Dundee a better place for everyone, and we must look thoroughly at every tool at our disposal.”  

    The Fair Work, Economic Growth and Infrastructure Committee meets on Monday June 9. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China boosts NEV adoption in rural areas

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, June 4 (Xinhua) — China is actively promoting the consumption of new energy vehicles (NEVs) in rural areas by creating an optimized policy environment.

    Five government departments, including the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology and the Ministry of Commerce, jointly issued a circular on Tuesday, according to which promotional activities will be carried out in a number of counties where the prevalence of NEVs is low and the market potential is large.

    Within the framework of such promotions, exhibition events and test drives will be organized, for which NEV car models with a good reputation and reliable quality that meet the needs of use in rural areas will be selected.

    The selection includes 124 models, both pure electric and hybrid, from domestic brands such as BYD, Geely, GAC Aion and Xpeng, as well as Tesla’s Model 3 and Model Y.

    In order to optimize the support environment for the use of NEV vehicles in rural areas, after-sales service and repair companies, electric vehicle charging and battery replacement service providers, and financial services firms will also join the promotions.

    In the first four months of 2025, China’s NEV production volume rose 48.3 percent year-on-year to nearly 4.43 million units, while sales jumped 46.2 percent to 4.3 million, data from the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers showed. NEVs accounted for 42.7 percent of the country’s total auto sales in the period.

    At the same time, according to official data, as of the end of March 2025, there were 13.75 million NEV charging infrastructure devices across the country, including 3.9 million public and 9.85 million private. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Over 1.5 Billion Parcels Handled During China’s Duanwu Holiday

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, June 4 (Xinhua) — More than 1.5 billion parcels were picked up and delivered across China during the traditional Duanwu (Dragon Boat Festival) holiday, which runs from May 31 to June 2 this year, the State Post Administration said Tuesday.

    This figure increased by 19.4 percent year-on-year.

    The postal and express delivery industry has widely used unmanned vehicles and built unmanned stations to improve service convenience, said Liu Jiang, a spokesman for the department.

    Enterprises in the industry are also upgrading their logistics systems to effectively reduce the loss of agricultural products during transportation. In addition, sorting centers at the county level are being automated and offices in townships and villages are being standardized, which has greatly improved the quality of courier services in rural areas, he added. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: MSF hands over activities in Marib and Taiz city to local authorities

    Source: Médecins Sans Frontières –

    Sana’a/Amsterdam- After years of providing critical medical care in conflict-affected Marib and Taiz city, Yemen, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), has completed the handover of medical activities to the local authorities.

    Since 2019, MSF has worked in Marib with local and health authorities to provide free and high-quality healthcare, and to deliver essential care to displaced and migrant communities in the hygiene fund clinic and supported the Governorate Health Office at Al-Ramsa clinic. Throughout 2024, MSF provided 32,000 outpatient and 2,640 antenatal consultations, admitted 420 children to the outpatient therapeutic feeding centre, and provided 6,000 vaccines. 

    Taiz city went through a dire health crisis, with conflict and economic collapse leaving people with limited access to care. Since 2021, MSF in collaboration with the Ministry of Health has supported the mother and child healthcare ward at Al-Jomhouri hospital, and helped respond to widespread healthcare needs. During 2024, MSF provided 22,580 antenatal and 5,835 postnatal consultations, admitted 4,214 patients to the maternity ward, 1,558 babies to the neonatal department, and assisted 8,879 deliveries.  

    In both projects, MSF also responded to cholera and measles outbreaks, as well as delivered essential items to the people who had been displaced by floods.

    “I deeply respect and admire the resilience of the Yemeni people during these tough and challenging times. Supporting people in need, especially women and children, was a profound responsibility. We are grateful to have served these communities and remain committed to supporting the access to healthcare across our remaining projects in the country,” says Tila Muhammad, MSF head of mission based in Sana’a.

    MSF remains actively present in ten governorates across Yemen, continuing to provide trauma care, maternal and paediatric services, and emergency medical support in regions facing acute humanitarian and health crises.

    “In a time when humanitarian access is more precarious than ever, MSF urges all stakeholders to protect medical infrastructure and ensure safe, unhindered access to healthcare for those in need.” says Muhammad.  

    Years of conflict have decimated public infrastructure, with millions of people lacking access to clean water, food, and medical care. The recent destruction of Sana’a airport and the Hodeidah port, which are critical entry points for humanitarian supplies and staff traveling in and out of Yemen, will be devastating to Yemeni people, who are already suffering from a massive humanitarian crisis.

    MSF has been working in Yemen since 1986 and has maintained a continuous presence in the country since 2007. Our work is guided solely by medical needs and carried out independently of political, economic, or religious agendas. This independence is made possible by our funding— of which 98 per cent comes from private donors, allowing us to assess needs freely, access communities, and directly deliver the aid we provide.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • PM Modi to visit Jammu and Kashmir on June 6 to inaugurate major infra projects

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Jammu and Kashmir on June 6 to inaugurate several key infrastructure projects aimed at boosting connectivity and development in the region.

    During his visit, PM Modi will inaugurate the Chenab Bridge, the world’s highest railway arch bridge, situated 359 metres above the Chenab River. The 1,315-metre-long steel arch bridge is engineered to withstand seismic and wind forces and will cut travel time between Jammu and Srinagar by two to three hours when the new Vande Bharat trains operate on it.

    The Prime Minister will also inaugurate the Anji Bridge, India’s first cable-stayed rail bridge built in challenging terrain. Later, he will flag off Vande Bharat Express trains between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and Srinagar, enhancing travel options for residents, tourists, and pilgrims.

    The PM will dedicate the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project to the nation. The 272-km rail link, completed at a cost of around ₹43,780 crore, features 36 tunnels spanning 119 km and 943 bridges, providing seamless all-weather rail connectivity to the Kashmir Valley.

    In addition to rail infrastructure, the Prime Minister will lay the foundation stone and inaugurate road projects to improve last-mile connectivity, particularly in border areas. These include the widening of the Rafiabad-Kupwara stretch on NH-701 and the construction of the Shopian bypass on NH-444, with a combined investment exceeding ₹1,952 crore.

    He will also inaugurate two flyovers at Sangrama Junction on NH-1 in Srinagar and Bemina Junction on NH-44 to ease traffic congestion.

    Further, PM Modi will lay the foundation stone of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Institute of Medical Excellence in Katra. The ₹350 crore project will be the first medical college in Reasi district, enhancing healthcare infrastructure in the region.

  • Over 1.4 million pilgrims begin Hajj journey as Saudi Arabia implements unprecedented heat safety measures

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The annual Hajj pilgrimage officially commenced today with over 1.4 million international pilgrims joining hundreds of thousands of domestic participants in Mecca, as Saudi authorities unveiled the most extensive safety preparations in the pilgrimage’s modern history to combat potentially deadly extreme heat.

    Pilgrims began streaming into the tent city of Mina early this morning to observe the Day of Tarwiyah, marking the formal start of one of the world’s largest religious gatherings. The sacred rites are expected to conclude around June 9, with the Day of Arafah anticipated tomorrow and Eid al-Adha celebrations beginning on June 6.

    The Indian Ambassador to Saudi Arabia issued a statement congratulating the thousands of Indian pilgrims participating this year, emphasizing that consular teams are coordinating closely with Saudi authorities and have established administrative and medical teams in all Mina camps. Indian pilgrims can access support through the “Hajj Suvidha” mobile application and dedicated toll-free numbers.

    Learning from last year’s tragic consequences when extreme temperatures contributed to over 1,300 deaths, Saudi authorities have deployed unprecedented resources for pilgrim safety. More than 400 high-powered cooling units have been installed at key ritual sites, while over 100,000 square meters of new shade structures have been erected in Mina and Arafat. Approximately 103,000 square meters of heat-reducing rubber flooring now cover pathways, designed to lower surface temperatures by 12 degrees Celsius.

    The kingdom has mobilized its largest-ever medical contingent, with the  Ministry of Health, announcing the deployment of 50,000 medical and administrative personnel. Over 700 hospital beds have been designated specifically for treating heat-related illnesses, supported by three field hospitals and 71 emergency response points. Healthcare capacity has increased by 60 percent compared to last year, with more than 98,000 medical services already delivered.

    Saudi authorities have implemented strict enforcement measures against unregistered pilgrims, imposing fines up to 5,000 dollars and potential deportation for anyone performing Hajj without proper permits. This applies to both foreign visitors and Saudi citizens or residents. The policy aims to ensure all pilgrims have proper access to shelter, water, and medical services during what meteorologists warn could be another dangerously hot pilgrimage season with temperatures potentially reaching or exceeding 50 degrees Celsius.

    Advanced technology plays a central role in this year’s safety strategy. Over 250,000 personnel from more than 40 government agencies have been deployed, supported by AI-powered crowd monitoring systems, facial recognition technology, and drones for surveillance and emergency response including fire suppression. The Saudi Arabian Civil Defense confirmed this marks the first time drones will be used during Hajj operations.

    Infrastructure improvements extend beyond heat mitigation. Around Namira Mosque, authorities have installed 350 misting fans and 320 canopies, while over 2,400 cold water dispensers have been strategically placed along pedestrian routes. Pilgrims have been advised to avoid direct sun exposure during peak daylight hours.

    This year’s pilgrimage features several procedural changes, with first-time pilgrims receiving priority through the digitalized “Nusuk” platform. Women are permitted to perform Hajj without a male guardian, reflecting ongoing social reforms in the kingdom.Mina, located five kilometers east of the Grand Mosque, serves as a crucial waypoint with its iconic landscape of over 100,000 fire-resistant white tents designed to accommodate more than 2.6 million pilgrims. The site represents a feat of modern logistics, featuring a complex network of roads, tunnels, and bridges facilitating movement between the three principal Hajj sites of Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah.

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Our approach to mental health and well-being: updates

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Authored article

    Our approach to mental health and well-being: updates

    Matthew Purves, National Director of Ofsted Academy, on Ofsted’s renewed approach to mental health and well-being.

    Introduction

    Last year, we fully accepted the findings and recommendations of the coroner’s inquest into the death of headteacher Ruth Perry. HM Coroner made clear that we relied too heavily on custom, practice and inspectors’ professional experience to support the well-being of leaders during our inspections. We did not have explicit written guidance for inspectors to follow if they became aware of well-being concerns, so although our approach was well intended it lacked a clear process.

    To address this, we’ve made changes to improve our practice. This article will explain those changes and discuss what else we plan to do.

    Our vision for inspection

    We want inspection to be a collaborative process in which we build positive relationships with leaders and staff. We want everyone to act with professionalism, courtesy, empathy and respect at all times, including when an inspection is challenging.

    To help us achieve this, we’ve set 4 objectives. We want to make sure that:

    • we have clear written guidance on supporting leaders’ well-being during inspections
    • our inspectors can recognise signs of distress and mental health issues, and know how to respond
    • we have a clear policy on pausing an inspection if leaders show signs of distress
    • our inspectors are fully aware of this policy and follow it confidently to support leaders and minimise additional stress

    Inspector training

    At our autumn 2023 training conference for school inspectors, inspectors considered the theme of ‘doing good as you go’. They took part in a structured session looking at how best to make an inspection as positive as possible for those involved, while maintaining its integrity. This included building and developing positive relationships throughout the inspection.

    In December 2023, school inspectors attended a briefing session on how to identify and respond to signs of stress. This briefing was then further developed and rolled out to all education inspectors in January 2024. These briefings let inspectors know that they should:

    • request the details of the person responsible for leaders’ well-being at the start of the inspection, so they can contact them for support if required
    • use the new national helpline to seek advice from senior colleagues if they have concerns about the well-being of leaders or staff
    • remind and encourage leaders to have someone accompany them at different points during the inspection

    The briefings also clarified who provisional inspection outcomes can be shared with and our updated policy on pausing inspections.

    We also updated our inspection handbooks to:

    • include explicit references to the well-being support provided by the Department for Education for headteachers
    • make clear that inspectors should routinely signpost this support in the pre-inspection call
    • reflect the points covered in the briefings

    Working closely with Mental Health First Aid England

    In January 2024, our Chief Inspector, Sir Martyn Oliver, hosted a half-day training webinar for all inspectors with Mental Health First Aid England (MHFAE). This focused on mental health and our behaviours of professionalism, courtesy, empathy and respect. It was followed by a half-day in-depth online training session, led by MHFAE’s expert trainers. All inspectors were required to complete this training. 

    The training was further built on in structured discussion sessions, carried out by regional teams. This gave inspectors the opportunity to reflect on the training and share good practice in implementing it. We used feedback from these sessions to identify further learning needs.

    Inspectors also engaged in sessions on applying the training at their remit conferences in early 2024.

    We have since worked closely with MHFAE to develop a bespoke training package. Completing the package is mandatory for all new inspectors. Additional training on building positive relationships and how to recognise and respond to signs of stress and anxiety is now also built into inspector inductions.

    This means that every new inspector joining Ofsted understands from day one the importance of mental health and working collaboratively, and knows how to identify signs of distress in leaders. Inspectors will re-do the training as a refresher every 2 years to ensure that it is current and remains at the forefront of their minds.

    Further training and development

    In spring 2024, we developed the refresher training mentioned above, which is for all inspectors. It covers how we meet our equalities duties during inspection, for example by providing reasonable adjustments for leaders, staff, children and learners, and parents and carers, where appropriate.

    We have also provided support and training for inspectors on how to manage their own stress and anxiety. This is so that they can manage the intensity of our work and be better able to spot and manage anxiety in themselves and others. 

    Through summer 2024, we sought feedback from a number of education providers that had been inspected since January 2024. This was to find out what difference the training had made. The feedback showed that inspectors took great care in supporting the well-being of leaders and staff. We turned this feedback into a briefing for all inspectors, which was made available in February 2025.

    We have also continued to promote mental health first aid training. We now have over 140 qualified mental health first aiders in our workforce, an increase of over 20% since December 2023. We have also trained 2 inspectors to mental health instructor level. This means we have more expertise and oversight in producing relevant training content.

    Next steps

    In autumn 2025, we will train all education inspectors to prepare them to inspect under our proposed new approach. This will include training on mental health and leaders’ and staff’s well-being. It will build on previous training but will update it to fit the improved inspection framework and methodology.

    We know that what we have done so far is just the beginning. To make sure that this progress is not lost, we will integrate mental health topics into all relevant ongoing training. This will support our inspectors in carrying out their work with professionalism, courtesy, empathy and respect, while ensuring that children, young people and learners receive the very best education and care.

    For more information on our inspector training materials, visit the Ofsted Academy page.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Dorset path improved from Kimmeridge Bay to South Haven Point

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Dorset path improved from Kimmeridge Bay to South Haven Point

    The path around Dorset’s stunning coastline is better than ever thanks to 21 miles of improvements between Kimmeridge Bay and South Haven Point.

    Legal provisions are in place so the coast path can be ‘rolled back’ in response to coastal erosion.

    • 21 miles of footpath from Kimmeridge Bay to South Haven Point now improved.
    • The footpath largely follows the South West Coast Path and creates new access rights between the path and low water.
    • New provision for the path to be easily moved following coastal erosion.

    These works form part of a national programme to create a coastal path around the whole of England. Once completed, this will be the longest managed coastal walking route in the world and the UK’s longest National Trail.

    Stretching from Kimmeridge Bay on the Dorset coast and east to South Haven Point, some 21 miles in total, the path follows the route of the existing South West Coast Path (SWCP) National Trail.

    Wonderful locations along the path

    For anyone walking the path, there is plenty to see, not least Kimmeridge Bay which is one of the most loved locations on the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site and Studland Bay, recently designated a Marine Conservation Zone, marks the eastern end of the Jurassic Coast. The path follows the coast of the Isle of Purbeck with its dramatic landscape features and impressive coastal views and throughout this stretch of the path there are glorious beaches if you want to feel sand between your toes.

    Durlston Country Park and National Nature Reserve is a great place to see wildlife, which might include bottlenose dolphins, sunfish, jellyfish, seals and a variety of seabirds. A live cliff camera records Durlston’s impressive guillemot colonies – they are both the most easterly and second largest on the South Coast.  The country park is an easily accessible section of coast path, and also has, for lovers of history, a castle, along with parking and cafe, the Anvil Point lighthouse and the Great Globe stone sphere plus magnificent views. 

    Ready to ‘roll back’

    In establishing the new trail, Natural England has sought to improve the alignment of the SWCP where possible or move it closer to the sea. It also brings legal provision for the trail to ‘roll back’ in response to coastal erosion, thereby securing people’s rights into the future and protecting the investment being made now.

    For example, at Chapman’s Pool there was a significant landslip meaning walkers had to take a lengthy diversion. Natural England worked closely with Dorset Council and the landowner to agree a new route that would solve the long-standing difficulties of maintaining a continuous route along this section of the coast.

    You will still encounter steep climbs and descents as well as gently undulating walking along the cliff tops.

    ‘Safe and scenic route along the Jurassic Coast’

    Tim Hall, Wessex Coast and Seas senior manager for Natural England, said:

    We’re pleased to open this new section of the England Coast Path today, 21 miles of spectacular views boasting some of our region’s most iconic wildlife and landscape.

    It will provide both the local community and visitors from further afield more opportunities to access the coast and connect with nature.

    Julian Gray, director, South West Coast Path Association (SWCPA), said:

    We’re really excited by the improvements to the coast path route and signage, helping create a more coastal walking experience in the area.

    As the charity championing the coast path we’re looking forward to seeing the remaining Dorset sections of the King Charles III England Coast Path completed.

    Cllr Jon Andrews, Dorset Council’s cabinet member for Place Services, said:

    This is wonderful news for Dorset. It not only provides a safe and scenic route for people to enjoy this stunning part of the Jurassic Coast, but it also gives our residents and visitors even more opportunities to connect with nature.

    South West Coast Path, part of the King Charles III England Coast Path

    The King Charles III England Coast Path (KCIIIECP) is a National Trail around the entire coast of England. Existing coastal national trails and other regional walks make up parts of the KCIIIECP and this newly improved stretch of the South West Coast Path forms part of it.

    You can plan your walk on the KCIIIECP, which follows the enhanced route of the SWCP between Kimmeridge Bay and South Haven Point, by visiting the KCIIIECP or the South West Coast Path pages of the National Trails website.

    Background

    The Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009 places a duty on the Secretary of State and Natural England to secure a long-distance walking trail around the open coast of England, together with public access rights to a wider area of land along the way for people to enjoy. 

    Natural England is working at pace to ensure completion of the KCIIIECP – 1,400 miles were open by the end of 2024.Subject to resources we expect to complete the KCIIIECP by spring 2026.

    • To plan their visit walkers can access route maps of all opened sections of the King Charles III England Coast Path and any local diversions on the National Trails website and can check Natural England’s open access maps for any restrictions to access.
    • You can promote your business, service, event or place of interest for free on the National Trails website, inspire people to spend more time in your area and benefit from the economic impact of visitors.
    • National Trails, marked by the acorn symbol, pass through spectacular scenery, support local tourism and offer a range of routes from short circular walks to long distance challenges.

    King Charles III England Coast Path

    • You can follow progress to complete the King Charles III England Coast Path at King Charles III England Coast Path: improving public access to the coast.
    • The King Charles III England Coast Path will be our longest, National Trail, passing through some of our finest countryside, maritime and industrial heritage, coastal settlements and rural locations.
    • It will also be the world’s longest managed coastal trail (i.e. the trail is maintained to National Trail standards).
    • It will secure legal rights of public access for the first time to typical coastal land including foreshore, beaches, dunes and cliffs that lies between the trail and the sea.

    Improvements to existing access to the coastline include: 

    • A clear and continuous way-marked walking route along this part of the coast, bringing some sections of the existing coastal footpath closer to the sea and linking some places together for the first time.
    • Targeted adjustments to make the trail more accessible for people with reduced mobility, where reasonable.
    • Uniquely amongst our National Trails the KCIIIECP may be moved in response to natural coastal changes, through ‘roll back’ if the coastline erodes or slips, solving the long-standing difficulties of maintaining a continuous route along the coast – and making a true coastal path practicable. The legal provision for roll back is proposed to sections of the trail where a need has been foreseen but can be retrospectively applied to other parts of the route if deemed necessary.
    • The route of the trail can also be altered through planning proposals and where coastal and flood defence works or habitat creation would impact on the proposed or open route of the KCIIIECP.
    • We work closely with a broad range of national and regional stakeholders around the country including wildlife trusts, National Trust, RSPB, NFU, CLA, RA, OSS, Environment Agency and local authorities.

    The  Countryside Code is the official guide on how to enjoy nature and treat both it, and the people who live and work there, with respect.  

    For landowners:

    Landowners who have KCIIIECP coastal access rights on their land enjoy the lowest liabilities in England.

    About Natural England  

    Established in 2006, Natural England is the government’s independent adviser on the natural environment. Our work is focused on enhancing England’s wildlife and landscapes and maximising the benefits they bring to the public. 

    • We establish and care for England’s main wildlife and geological sites, ensuring that over 4,000 National Nature Reserves (NNRs) and Sites of Special Scientific Interest are looked after and improved.
    • We work to ensure that England’s landscapes are effectively protected, designating England’s National Parks and National Landscapes , and advising widely on their conservation.
    • We run Environmental Stewardship and other green farming schemes that deliver over £400 million a year to farmers and landowners, enabling them to enhance the natural environment across two thirds of England’s farmland.
    • We fund, manage, and provide scientific expertise for hundreds of conservation projects each year, improving the prospects for thousands of England’s species and habitats.
    • We promote access to the wider countryside, helping establish National Trails and coastal trails and ensuring that the public can enjoy and benefit from them.

    About the South West Coast Path Association

    The South West Coast Path Association is a charity (Registered Charity Number 1163422) that works to ensure the South West Coast Path is one of the best walks in the world and protects it for all to enjoy. Supporting the charity helps the South West Coast Path Association to improve the South West Coast Path and keeps the way open to beautiful coastal places.

    For more information visit the South West Coast Path Association.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Cornwall coast path improvements now complete

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Cornwall coast path improvements now complete

    Path improvements along 228 miles of Cornwall’s stunning coastline from St Agnes Head along the south coast to the Tamar at Cremyll have finished.

    Mevagissey, one of the many locations to be found on the coast path which has been improved from St Agnes on the north coast of Cornwall around to Cremyll, near Rame on the south coast. Photo: Matt Burtwell, Aerial Cornwall.

    • 228 miles of footpath heading west from St Agnes and all along the south coast now improved.
    • The footpath follows the South West Coast Path for much of its length but with a number of improvements where the path has been moved nearer to the sea.
    • The project creates new access rights between the path and low water.
    • New provision for the path to be easily moved following coastal erosion events.

    These works form part of a national programme to create a coastal path around the whole of England. Once completed, this will be the longest managed coastal walking route in the world and the UK’s longest National Trail.  

    Earlier this year the 75-mile stretch from Marsland Mouth on the North Cornwall coast down to Newquay was completed. This follows the route of the existing South West Coast Path (SWCP) National Trail. Now the remaining 228 miles of path are completed: heading west from Newquay, down to Land’s End and back along the south coast to Cremyll on the banks of the Tamar.

    Plenty to see along the path

    For anyone walking the path, there is plenty to see, with towns and villages such as Falmouth, Penzance and Polperro, along with popular spots such as Land’s End and The Lizard.  

    For those interested in the county’s heritage, there are castles in abundance, like St Mawes and St Michael’s Mount, alongside remnants of Cornwall’s industrial past at Botallack engine houses and the Levant mine and beam engine – to say nothing of the famous cliffside Minack Theatre.

    There’s also plenty for lovers of wildlife to spot, including choughs, grey seals and peregrine falcons. And, of course, there are glorious sandy beaches to stop off at throughout the route. 

    Lining up the path with the coast

    In establishing the new trail, Natural England sought to improve the alignment of the coast path where possible or move it closer to the sea. For example, a new route has been created on the western side of the Lizard at Porthkerris instead of the old inland route along country roads. And at Millendreath the new path has been moved away from the road to allow for more scenic views and a safer walking route. Other changes include Downderry where the main route is impassable during high tides, so an alternative follows the coastal road. 

    While walkers will still encounter steep climbs and descents  – as well as gently undulating walking along the cliff tops  – there are now more accessible areas. This includes the path between Swanpool and Gyllanvase Beach and the path around Tregantle Fort.  Another change is a new legal provision for the trail to ‘roll back’ in response to coastal erosion, thereby securing people’s rights into the future and protecting the investment being made now.

    ‘Wowing visitors for years’

    Andrea Ayres, deputy area director for Natural England, said:

    This huge stretch of path along two coasts takes in some of the best views in the South West. These much-loved places  have been wowing visitors for many years, as well as being loved by local residents.

    We hope the improvements to the path, and the additional access rights, will mean even more people will get out and enjoy nature.

    This will provide vital health and wellbeing benefits for local communities, as well attracting visitors to the county, with tourism playing a vital role in the South West economy.

    ‘Great to see sections of the King’s coast path open in Cornwall’

    While much of Cornwall’s 300-mile section of the South West Coast Path is owned by private landowners and organisations, the path is managed by Cornwall Council. The council and Cormac, together with the National Trust, have worked to deliver the improvements around the county. 

    Julian Gray, director, South West Coast Path Association (SWCPA), said:

    It’s great to see the final sections of the King Charles III England Coast Path open in Cornwall, which creates new open access rights around the coast to help connect people to nature.

    The establishment of the KCIIIECP has brought significant investment and improvements to the route of the coast path and also gives us new powers to manage the National Trail in the face of coastal erosion.

    We will continue to work with our trail partners to protect, improve and champion the South West Coast Path as one of the world’s great trails.

    Local locations used in The Salt Path

    The Salt Path, starring Gillian Anderson and Jason Isaacs, was released last week and partly filmed in Newquay, as well as Whitsand Bay and Rame Head on the south east coast of Cornwall. Based on the memoir written by Raynor Winn, the story is about one couple’s walk around the South West Coast Path and could lead to the area attracting a whole new wave of visitors.

    The King Charles III England Coast Path (KCIIIECP) is a National Trail around the entire coast of England. Existing coastal national trails will retain their branding and alongside  other promoted routes form part of the KCIIIECP.

    You can plan your walk on the KCIIIECP, which follows the enhanced route of the SWCP between Newquay and Cremyll, by visiting the KCIIIECP or the South West Coast Path pages of the National Trails website.  

    Background

    The Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009 places a duty on the Secretary of State and Natural England to secure a long-distance walking trail around the open coast of England, together with public access rights to a wider area of land along the way for people to enjoy.  

    Natural England is working at pace to ensure completion of the KCIIIECP. 1,400 miles were open by the end of 2024.Subject to resources we expect to complete the KCIIIECP by spring 2026. 

    • To plan their visit walkers can access route maps of all opened sections of the King Charles III England Coast Path and any local diversions on the National Trails website and check for any restrictions to access at Natural England’s open access maps.
    • You can promote your business, service, event or place of interest for free on the National Trails website, inspire people to spend more time in your area and benefit from the economic impact of visitors.
    • National Trails, marked by the acorn symbol, pass through spectacular scenery, support local tourism and offer a range of routes from short circular walks to long distance challenges.

    King Charles III England Coast Path:  

    • Here is a map showing progress to complete the King Charles III England Coast Path.
    • The King Charles III England Coast Path will be our longest, National Trail, passing through some of our finest countryside, maritime and industrial heritage, coastal settlements and rural locations.
    • It will also be the world’s longest managed coastal trail (i.e. the trail is maintained to National Trail standards).
    • It will secure legal rights of public access for the first time to typical coastal land including foreshore, beaches, dunes and cliffs that lies between the trail and the sea.

    Improvements to existing access to the coastline include:  

    • a clear and continuous way-marked walking route along this part of the coast, bringing some sections of the existing coastal footpath closer to the sea and linking some places together for the first time.
    • Targeted adjustments to make the trail more accessible for people with reduced mobility, where reasonable.
    • Uniquely amongst our National Trails the KCIIIECP may be moved in response to natural coastal changes, through ‘roll back’ if the coastline erodes or slips, solving the long-standing difficulties of maintaining a continuous route along the coast – and making a true coastal path practicable. The legal provision for roll back is proposed to sections of the trail where a need has been foreseen but can be retrospectively applied to other parts of the route if deemed necessary.
    • The route of the trail can also be altered through planning proposals and where coastal and flood defence works or habitat creation would impact on the proposed or open route of the KCIIIECP.
    • You can find out more about progress near you to create the King Charles III England Coast path.
    • We work closely with a broad range of national and regional stakeholders around the country including wildlife trusts, National Trust, RSPB, NFU, CLA, RA, OSS, Environment Agency and local authorities.

    The Countryside Code is the official guide on how to enjoy nature and treat both it, and the people who live and work there, with respect.   

    For landowners: 

    Landowners who have KCIIIECP coastal access rights on their land enjoy the lowest liabilities in England.  

    About Natural England    

    Established in 2006, Natural England is the government’s independent adviser on the natural environment. Our work is focused on enhancing England’s wildlife and landscapes and maximising the benefits they bring to the public.  

    • We establish and care for England’s main wildlife and geological sites, ensuring that over 4,000 National Nature Reserves (NNRs) and Sites of Special Scientific Interest are looked after and improved.
    • We work to ensure that England’s landscapes are effectively protected, designating England’s National Parks and National Landscapes , and advising widely on their conservation.
    • We run Environmental Stewardship and other green farming schemes that deliver over £400 million a year to farmers and landowners, enabling them to enhance the natural environment across two thirds of England’s farmland.
    • We fund, manage, and provide scientific expertise for hundreds of conservation projects each year, improving the prospects for thousands of England’s species and habitats.
    • We promote access to the wider countryside, helping establish National Trails and coastal trails and ensuring that the public can enjoy and benefit from them.

    For more information, visit King Charles III England Coast Path: improving public access to the coast .  

    About the South West Coast Path Association 

    The South West Coast Path Association is a charity (Registered Charity Number 1163422) that works to ensure the South West Coast Path is one of the best walks in the world and protects it for all to enjoy. Supporting the charity helps the South West Coast Path Association to improve the South West Coast Path and keeps the way open to beautiful coastal places.  

    For more information visit the South West Coast Path Association.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Helping people to avoid hospital admission

    Source: City of Coventry

    A pioneering service that is helping people in Coventry get back to independence after being in hospital is marking its first birthday.

    Since going live in June 2024, three Local Integrated Teams (LITS) made up of health and care professionals from University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire (UHCW) and Coventry City Council have cared for over 6000 patients.

    The single integrated team support the whole urgent and emergency care pathway. 

    The team is based in Newfield House, Opal Centre and Tile Hill Primary Care Centre – each covering different areas of the city.

    Among the patients cared for by LITS is 88-year-old Joan Foster from Holbrooks. Joan spent eight weeks in hospital after a fall in her home and lying on the floor for 10 hours.  

    Following discharge, an Occupational Therapist (OT) and Physio from the North LIT provided support, including sourcing equipment, in Joan’s home. Within two months Joan’s care needs were reduced to a single carer once a day.

    Joan said: “Without the support, I don’t know where I’d be. They gave me the confidence to realise I can do things. I can now get into bed on my own and get to the kitchen to make a cup of tea.”

    Over the year, LITs have helped 840 people to avoid an unnecessary hospital admission, fewer people with an urgent care need a long stay in a care home and over 2000 patients with support for a short while in their home, or close to where they live.

    Other achievements include:

    • 86 per cent fewer patients requiring a long-term bed in a care home with successful reablement and promoting independence;
    • Supported over 1420 patients with therapy in or close to their homes.

    Lead for One Coventry Integrated Team (OCIT), Jodie Storrow said: “LITs were trialled under the Improving Lives programme in 2024 after a diagnostic showed that older patients with an urgent health and care need were getting the wrong support. One year in, we are demonstrating that we’re receiving the right patients who are right for our service.”

    She added: “What we’ve achieved in a year is truly astonishing.  I would like to thank each and every member of the LITs for their compassion and dedication to working differently to deliver improved outcomes for the people of Coventry. Day in, day out, you are working as a single integrated team which is fundamentally changing the way we support people with an urgent need”.

    Rae Bottrill, Service Manager in Adult Social Care said: “Health and Social Care colleagues working in an integrated way in the LITS to support people of Coventry is demonstrating fantastic outcomes for people.”

    Cllr Linda Bigham, Cabinet Member for Adult Services, said: “In such a short time the new integrated teams are making a big difference. Joan’s experience is a great example of the work being done.

    “Where people can be at or nearer to home, and out of hospital is crucial, and I’m delighted that the teams are helping reduce the numbers of patients needing a bed in a care home.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: RAEX 2025: Polytechnic University ranks 8th among the top 100 universities in Russia

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    The RAEX-Analytics agency presented the results of the rating of the hundred best universities in Russia at the forum of universities “The Future of Higher Education”, where the speakers were the rector of SPbPU Andrey Rudskoy and the vice-rector for personnel policy Maria Vrublevskaya. Among the hundred best universities in the country, Polytechnic took 8th place.

    The rating included 166 universities from 40 regions of Russia. The most widespread category of universities in RAEX-100 are technical universities. The best included 37 such educational organizations, while a year earlier there were 35. Universities of engineering and technical profile not only expanded their presence in the rating, but also showed the best dynamics among all categories of participants. 54% of technical universities grew in the rating compared to last year.

    The high assessment of our university by the RAEX rating agency is not just an achievement, but a confirmation of our commitment to technological leadership and innovation in education. We actively cooperate with industry, introducing modern technologies and approaches into the educational process. This allows our students not only to gain theoretical knowledge, but also to develop practical skills necessary for a successful career in a rapidly changing world. We are confident that it is through partnership with industry that we will be able to prepare a new generation of specialists capable of solving complex problems and contributing to the development of the economy and society, – commented the rector of SPbPU Andrey Rudskoy.

    The number of students in the RAEX-100 universities is growing. In 2025, the number of students exceeded 1.5 million people for the first time. In the 2024-2025 academic year, the total number of students at the Polytechnic increased from 29,622 to 30,870 people. The 2024 admissions campaign showed record numbers – more than 130,000 applications.

    The rating agency also noted a change in the age structure of the teaching staff at universities included in the top 100. Thus, at SPbPU, the share of young specialists in the total number of scientific and pedagogical workers has increased by 5% over the past three years.

    At Polytechnic University, we pay special attention to the development of human capital, because we are confident that it is people who have the enormous potential for comprehensive growth and strengthening the university’s competitiveness. We strive to create conditions that contribute to the development of talents, skills and knowledge of our students and teachers, which, in turn, allows us to adapt to the rapidly changing requirements of the industry and ensure high quality education, – noted Vice-Rector for HR Policy at SPbPU Maria Vrublevskaya.

    When preparing the rating in 2025, statistical indicators were used in the questionnaire, as well as the results of online surveys of over 150,000 respondents: representatives of academic and scientific circles, students and graduates, employers. The rating functionality is determined based on the analysis of the following integral factors: conditions for obtaining a quality education (50%), the level of demand for graduates by employers (30%), the level of research activity (20%). In 2025, a new criterion appeared in the rating – “The number of graduates holding leadership positions in regional executive bodies.” It refers to the sub-rating for assessing the quality of graduates’ careers.

    More details on the rating results can be found aton the RAEX website.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Performances based on classics and book presentations: what awaits guests at the Red Square book festival

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The annual book festival will be held in Moscow from June 4 to 7 “Red Square”. This year it is dedicated to the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Great Patriotic War and the Year of the Defender of the Fatherland. The event traditionally takes place on Red Square at the beginning of summer and is timed to coincide with the birthday of Alexander Pushkin and the Day of the Russian Language.

    “Moscow libraries under the Department of Culture have prepared more than 100 events for guests of the Red Square book festival. They will be able to attend walking lectures, an interactive performance and other events. In addition, they have prepared fresh new books from publishers,” said the Minister of the Moscow Government, head of the Moscow Department of Culture

    Alexey Fursin.

    Guests can expect theatrical performances, poetry readings, concerts, lectures and book presentations. In addition, everyone will be able to apply for a single library card.

    This year, the program for the Small Stage and Library venues is being prepared by the Moscow Directorate for the Development of Cultural Centers (State Budgetary Cultural Institution of the City of Moscow Mosrazvitie), subordinate to the capital’s To the Department of Culture.

    Performances and creative meetings

    On the first day of the festival, June 4, at 12:00, actors from the youth theater “Chekhov’s Attic” will show a play based on Anton Chekhov’s stories “Two Jokes”. In honor of the 165th anniversary of the author’s birth, they will perform two plays based on humorous stories – “The Bear” and “The Proposal”.

    At 13:00, the theatre studio “Theatre named after Menya” will show the stage production “Manifestation”, which tells about the invention of the camera and photographic film.

    The performance based on Alexander Pushkin’s poem “Gypsies” will be shown by the youth project “Open Theater” at 14:00. The director and performer is Ekaterina Buyanova, winner of the festivals “Yursky’s Butterfly – 2024”, “Territory of the Future. Moscow 2030” in Zaryadye Park and “Red Square – 2024”.

    At 15:00, the artists of the Satire Theatre, accompanied by an orchestra, will perform popular songs for the festival guests, including “Good evening, my city”, “In the city of happy people”, “Moscow windows” and “The best city on earth”.

    A lecture dedicated to the 100th anniversary of the publication of Mikhail Bulgakov’s novel “The White Guard” will take place at 16:00. It will discuss the history of the creation of the work, as well as the events that formed the basis of the novel.

    At 6:00 p.m., photographer, local historian and author of books about the capital Elena Krizhevskaya will hold a presentation entitled “Moscow Mansions, Their Owners and Architects in Stories and Photographs.” Visitors to the event will also be treated to a screening of the new book “Behind the Front Doors.”

    The creative interactive meeting “A Neskuchny Gorod — Other Local History” will take place at 19:00. Guests will learn popular names of Russian streets, interesting facts about manhole covers and other attributes of cities. The meeting will be hosted by Helga Pataki — writer, director, local historian, tour guide, traveler and polar explorer, deputy director for development of the publishing house “Nastya and Nikita”.

    Concerts, presentations, lectures and more

    On June 5 at 10:00 a.m. the dance and poetry performance “Images. Dedication” of the creative project will begin

    The artistic and literary program in honor of the 80th anniversary of the Great Victory will begin at 11:00. Actors of the “Modern” theater will show an excerpt from Olga Berggolts’s “Leningrad Speaks.” The theme of the program will be the words: “Nobody is forgotten and nothing is forgotten.”

    At 13:00 you can attend a lecture-concert “Female archetypes in literature: Turgenev’s modern girl – who is she?” At the same time, Master of Philology, research fellow of the A.S. Pushkin Library Valentina Molotkova will give a lecture dedicated to the 165th anniversary of Anton Chekhov’s birth “I am forever a Muscovite”.

    At 2:00 pm, poet, playwright, show host, member of the Union of Russian Writers Mikhail Slutsky will hold a presentation of the books “Hurry to Share Kindness!”. Editions for children of different ages will be presented, including “Merry ABC”, “Journey from One to Zero”, “Puzzled Tales”, “In Search of the Seven Hills”, “Flight of the Turtle” and “Antique – Ironic”.

    The concert “Commanders and Muses”, dedicated to the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Great Patriotic War, will begin at 16:00. The performance will feature soloists of the “Young Opera of Russia” project and Lyubov Kazarnovskaya.

    At 17:00 there will be a lecture “Ivan Vasilyevich: Leonid Gaidai vs. Mikhail Bulgakov”. Listeners will learn about Bulgakov’s comedy and Leonid Gaidai’s film.

    The creative meeting “Russian victories in Antarctica” will take place at 19:00. 205 years ago, the first Russian Antarctic expedition took place. On the sloops “Vostok” and “Mirny” under the leadership of Faddey Bellingshausen and Mikhail Lazarev, the sixth continent was discovered.

    The Pushkin Coats of Arms, Bulgakov’s Moscow and Fantasy for Children

    On June 6 at 11:00 the musical and drama theatre “Prince on the Lighthouse” will show the play “The Nose of Varvara Sidorova”.

    At 13:00 the concert “Different People” will begin. The inclusive studio “Colorit” will perform vocal and dance numbers, including “The World is Not Simple”, “Districts-Quarters”, and “My Dear Muscovites”. At 13:00 there will be a lecture “Coats of Arms of the Noble Family of Pushkin-Gannibals”. Participants of the program will be introduced to the drawings of coats of arms made by the grandson of Alexander Pushkin – Nikolai.

    Illustrator and children’s writer Maria Kolker will present a new fantasy book, The Last Refuge of the Fairies, at 2:00 p.m. The work is intended for children over six years old. At the same time, contemporary Russian authors will hold a round table on teenage literature, Prose for Teens: How to Find Your Book?

    At 15:00, the head of the excursion bureau of the Museum of Moscow, Andrey Klyuev, will hold a lecture entitled “The Architecture of Moscow through the Eyes of Bulgakov.” The participants will discuss the architectural image of the capital in the 1920s and 1930s — the Palace of Soviets, train stations, embankments, and former apartment buildings.

    Poetry, music and storytelling: the festival finale

    On June 7 at 11:00 the creative salon “Zakruzhilas slivtva zolotaya” (Golden Leaves Spun) will start its work. The meeting will be dedicated to the 130th anniversary of Sergei Yesenin’s birth. The hosts will be directors of the Sofit theater studio Tatyana Argunova and Nikolai Zozulin. The speakers will talk about the author’s childhood in the Ryazan outback and his first poetic experiences.

    At the same time, a creative meeting with Andrey Osipov, Honored Artist of the Russian Federation, will begin. The event is dedicated to his film “Koktebel Stones”. The author will talk about an important episode of the film – the defense of Koktebel and Voloshin’s house from the Nazi invaders during the Great Patriotic War.

    The performance “The Little Prince” based on the fairy tale by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry will begin at 12:00. Young artists will play flutes, violins, guitar and sing arias.

    At 20:00, the interactive storytelling performance “Notes of a Young Doctor” will begin. Theater and film actor Konstantin Kozhevnikov will tell the story of how the young doctor Mikhail Bulgakov fought for the lives of patients at the Nikolskaya Zemstvo Hospital in 1916-1917.

    At the same time, there will be a lecture entitled “Boris Pasternak – Poet and Translator”. The event is dedicated to the 135th anniversary of the birth of the Russian writer. The speaker is Vitaly Poplavsky, director-teacher, art critic, translator, playwright, member of the Shakespeare Commission of the Russian Academy of Sciences.

    The full program of events can be viewed atofficial websiteEntrance to Red Square during the festival is free.

    Last year, more than 300,000 people visited the Red Square festival. Over 400 publishers from 58 regions of the country presented new fiction, children’s, educational and popular science literature. The event is aimed at achieving the indicators and results of the national project “Family” in the city of Moscow.

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