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Category: Vehicles

  • MIL-OSI Russia: SCO countries are continuously deepening the interconnectivity of supply chains and production chains

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    QINGDAO, July 21 (Xinhua) — With the global economic architecture changing rapidly, member states of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) have been continuously deepening the connectivity of supply chains and industrial chains through pragmatic cooperation, according to participants at the China-SCO Regional Economic and Trade Cooperation Conference held recently in Qingdao, east China’s Shandong Province.

    Li Gang, assistant general manager of Sinopec Group Co., Ltd., expressed hope for deeper cooperation in the upstream and downstream sectors of industrial chains, including joint projects in crude oil refining, jointly upgrading industrial technology, and building more competitive chemical industry clusters, so as to promote the coordinated development of manufacturing industries in the region.

    Logistics and transportation are an important pillar for deepening the connectivity of supply chains and industrial chains. According to the management committee of the China-SCO Regional Economic and Trade Cooperation Demonstration Zone in Qingdao, 4,500 China-Europe international railway trains have been operated on the zone, linking it with 54 cities in 23 countries.

    In addition, at present, the China-SCO Demonstration Zone is also the leader in China in terms of the number of truck shipments under the TIR /International Road Transport/ system.

    According to a local international economic and trade company, the TIR system has greatly improved the efficiency of international trade. With the introduction of the “TIR plus two-way cold chain transportation” model, fruits and vegetables produced in China’s Shandong, Sichuan, Hunan, Guangdong and other regions can also be delivered to Belarus, Russia and other countries.

    “We deliver these fruits and vegetables to St. Petersburg in a maximum of 6 days. For comparison, the transportation of these products by traditional road transport took about 15 days. This business model has attracted many Russian buyers and Chinese exporters of fruits and vegetables,” the company noted.

    According to experts, the continuous deepening of the interconnectedness of supply chains and production chains within the SCO not only promotes the integration development of the regional economy, but also helps to ensure the stability of the global supply chain. -0-

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Pope Leo XIV: “Profound sadness” for the “Israeli army attack” against the Gaza parish

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Sunday, 20 July 2025

    VaticanMedia

    Castel Gandolfo (Agenzia Fides) – “I express my profound sadness regarding last Thursday’s attack by the Israeli army on the Catholic Parish of the Holy Family in Gaza City”. Pope Leo expressed his clear and explicit words today, referring to the Israeli raid on the compound of the Latin Catholic Church dedicated to the Holy Family in the Gaza Strip.After the Angelus prayer, which he recited for the second time before the crowd gathered in Piazza della Libertà in Castel Gandolfo, Pope Leo clearly recalled those responsible for the tragedy, and also recalled the names of the three victims of the Israeli attack: Saad Issa Kostandi Salameh, Foumia Issa Latif Ayyad, and Najwa Ibrahim Latif Abu Daoud. “This act, unfortunately,” Pope Leo continued, “adds to the continuous military attacks against the civilian population and places of worship in Gaza.” The Pope once again called for an immediate halt to the barbarism of the war and for a peaceful resolution of the conflict. He appealed “to the international community to observe humanitarian law and to respect the obligation to protect civilians, as well as the prohibition of collective punishment, the indiscriminate use of force and the forced displacement of the population”.He also reaffirmed his closeness to “our beloved” Middle Eastern Christians: “I deeply sympathise,” the Bishop of Rome told them, “with your feeling that you can do little in the face of this grave situation. You are in the heart of the Pope and of the whole Church. Thank you for your witness of faith.”On Friday, July 18, as reported in the statement released by the Holy See Press Office, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had a telephone conversation with Pope Leo regarding “the military attack by the Israeli army” that struck the Church of the Holy Family in Gaza, killing three people and injuring others, including some seriously. On the Israeli side, this tragic event was presented as an “accident” or a “mistake.” That same Friday evening, in an interview with an Italian television channel, Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin also stated that “it’s legitimate to doubt that the raid on the church in Gaza was a ‘mistake’, rather than the result of “a desire to hit a Christian church knowing how much Christians are an element of moderation in the Middle East even in relations between Palestinians and Jews.” Therefore,” Cardinal Parolin added, “there would once again be a desire to eliminate any element that could help achieve at least a truce and then peace.”Today, in the brief catechesis delivered before the Angelus, Pope Leo (who had presided over the Eucharistic Concelebration in the Cathedral of Albano this morning) drew inspiration from the day’s liturgical readings to draw attention to the dynamics of hospitality: that practiced by Abraham and his wife Sarah toward the Lord, made present in the form of three mysterious strangers, and that reserved for Jesus by the sisters Martha and Mary.”Every time we accept the invitation to the Lord’s Supper and participate in the Eucharistic table,” Pope Leo recalled, “it is God himself who ‘comes to serve us.’ And yet, our God first knew how to be a guest, and today too he stands at our door and knocks.” The Pontiff focused in particular on the Gospel episode of the hospitality offered to Jesus by Mary and Martha, the former listening to the Lord’s words, the latter working hard to welcome him and complaining about her sister’s lack of cooperation. “Martha,” the Pontiff acknowledged, “is a generous person, but God calls her to something more beautiful than generosity itself. He calls her to come out of herself.” Only this—added the Bishop of Rome—”makes our life flourish: opening ourselves to something that distracts us from ourselves and at the same time fulfills us. At the moment when Martha complains because her sister has left her alone to serve, Mary seems to have lost all sense of time, won over by the word of Jesus. She is no less concrete than her sister, nor any less generous. However, she seized the opportunity.” (GV) (Agenzia Fides, 20/7/2025)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Scientists from NSU and Scientific and Technical Complex “Microsurgery of the Eye” are developing an autonomous AI assistant for visually impaired people

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Novosibirsk State University –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The basic model of an autonomous intelligent assistant for visually impaired and blind patients was presented to Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation — Head of the Government Staff Dmitry Grigorenko during his visit to Novosibirsk State University. The device is being developed using large language models and artificial intelligence technologies.

    The idea of the development belongs to the Novosibirsk branch of the Federal State Autonomous Institution “National Medical Research Center “Microsurgery of the Eye” named after Academician S.N. Fedorov” of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, which, together with scientists Research Center in the Field of Artificial Intelligence of NSU (NSU AI Center) creates a new device designed to make it easier for visually impaired and blind people to navigate in space using modern technologies.

    As noted by the director of the Novosibirsk branch of the Scientific and Technical Complex “Microsurgery of the Eye”, professor, doctor of medical sciences Valery Chernykh, today there are various approaches related to the possibility of giving a blind person a chance of functional orientation in the surrounding space, his adaptation and rehabilitation with the possibility of actively and independently living a full life.

    First of all, these are social and rehabilitation-educational programs that require quite large financial investments. In addition, over the past 20 years, scientists from various countries have been attempting to implant expensive and high-tech chips either into the retina or directly into the occipital part of the cerebral cortex, which is responsible for the function of vision. These are very complex and expensive operations with a high risk of complications and, unfortunately, with a fairly low percentage of effectiveness, since the results obtained do not last long. Several such operations have also been carried out in our country, the results of which cannot yet be considered satisfactory.

    — Considering the active development of technologies related to the capabilities of artificial intelligence, the idea was born to use the auditory analyzer of the brain for human orientation in space. When a person reads a book or listens to an audio recording, certain images of objects, etc. are formed in his brain. If a visually impaired or blind patient is given the opportunity to determine the distance to an object (doorway, window, vehicle), its size, etc. through the auditory analyzer, this will certainly help him in real life and adaptation in the social environment. Considering the previous successful experience of joint work, we decided to join forces with scientists from the Research Center for Artificial Intelligence of the Novosibirsk State University in order to create such a technology that should be autonomous and not use the Internet, — said Valery Chernykh.

    At the first stage, the developers create a prototype of the device and train the model in accordance with the tasks set, which is actively carried out by the formed working group, which includes scientists from the NSU AI Center and the Scientific and Technical Complex “Microsurgery of the Eye”.

    — We use large language models to help this category of patients analyze the surrounding space — to create a guide for them that could give a concentrated verbal description of all objects in front of the user. The principle of this system is simple: a video camera will “see” instead of a person, the information from which will be sent to a portable computer, which will convert it into text. Then the text description is converted by a voice assistant and sent directly to the patient through headphones. This message provides the basic information that the user needs to know to navigate in space, — explained Alexey Okunev, head of the project at the NSU AI Center.

    The device is developed using a multimodal language model, which allows it to already provide a fairly high-quality verbal description of surrounding rooms and objects. In the future, the user will be able to ask clarifying questions about the observed scene and receive detailed answers to them. This language model also perfectly recognizes texts, reads inscriptions, signs, obstacle warnings, etc.

    Currently, a basic model has been created, a prototype of the device will be ready by the end of 2025. This is a compact wearable system consisting of a single-board 16-core computer placed in a shoulder bag, a video camera (for example, GoPro) and headphones. The device will be equipped with a battery, and all elements will be connected by wireless communication channels. The user will hold the video camera in his hand and point it in the desired direction. The total weight of the device with the battery will be about 1 kg.

    According to the experts of the NSU Center for Information Technologies, it will take more than one year to develop the final product ready for replication, and now they are at the very start of the project. This concerns both the technical part and the training of artificial intelligence. After the prototype is created this year, long-term work will begin on setting up the device, setting modes, collecting a database and training AI.

    The developers plan to teach the AI to prioritize information delivery, highlighting from the entire video sequence the details that are most important for the visually impaired person to orient themselves in space and assess the surrounding environment depending on the situation. It is assumed that the device will have several operating modes: a movement mode for moving in space, a reading mode for working with text documents, etc.

    It will also be necessary to train a blind or visually impaired patient to work with the device in various modes and adapt it to new capabilities. As noted by the Scientific and Technical Complex “Microsurgery of the Eye”, at this stage, the work of not only ophthalmologists, but also specialists in the field of neurophysiology will be required. And the third task that will need to be solved is the need to create a specialized ophthalmological rehabilitation center to prepare blind patients directly for working with the device.

    “The creation of such a device is of interest in the ophthalmological community as an extremely relevant and necessary area, the implementation of which will enable blind patients to adapt to the environment, which is a socially significant project,” concluded Valery Chernykh.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Gaza Convoy Incident Statement

    Source: World Food Programme

    On the morning of 20 July, a 25 truck WFP convoy carrying vital food assistance crossed the Zikim border point destined for starving communities in northern Gaza.

    Shortly after passing the final checkpoint beyond the Zikim crossing point into Gaza, the convoy encountered large crowds of civilians anxiously waiting to access desperately needed food supplies.

    As the convoy approached, the surrounding crowd came under fire from Israeli tanks, snipers and other gunfire.

    We are deeply concerned and saddened by this tragic incident resulting in the loss of countless lives. Many more suffered life-threatening injuries. These people were simply trying to access food to feed themselves and their families on the brink of starvation. This terrible incident underscores the increasingly dangerous conditions under which humanitarian operations are forced to be conducted in Gaza.  

    Today’s violent incident comes despite assurances from Israeli authorities that humanitarian operational conditions would improve; including that armed forces will not be present nor engage at any stage along humanitarian convoy routes. 

    There should never, ever, be armed groups near or on our aid convoys, as reiterated on many occasions to all parties to the conflict. Shootings near humanitarian missions, convoys and food distributions must stop immediately. Any violence involving civilians seeking humanitarian aid is completely unacceptable. 

    We stand firmly by our principles of operating with independence, impartiality and neutrality. It is one of the many reasons why communities trust us. 

    The World Food Programme continues to call for the protection of all civilians and aid workers delivering life-saving assistance. WFP teams accompanying convoys should not have to risk their own lives in the effort to save others. Without these fundamental conditions in place, we cannot continue providing life-saving support across the Gaza strip.

    Gaza’s hunger crisis has reached new levels of desperation. People are dying from lack of humanitarian assistance. Malnutrition is surging with 90,000 women and children in urgent need of treatment. Nearly one person in three is not eating for days. Food aid is the only way for most people to access any food – as the cost of a one-kilogram bag of flour has surged to over USD100 in local markets.

    Only a massive scale-up in food aid distributions can stabilize this spiraling situation, calm anxieties and rebuild the trust within communities that more food is coming.

    An agreed ceasefire is long overdue. All hostages should be released, and humanitarians should be able to reach the civilian population in Gaza with critical food supplies in a consistent, predictable, orderly and safe manner — wherever they are across the Gaza Strip. 

    WFP is ready. We have food supplies nearby, experienced teams on the ground, and proven systems in place to respond at scale. We did it before and we can do it again.

    We urgently call on the international community and all parties to advocate for, and facilitate, the delivery of life-saving food aid to starving populations inside Gaza – safely, securely, wherever families are, and without obstruction.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Development Asia: Enhancing the Enabling Environment for SMEs in the Lao PDR

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    The government should streamline business formalization and reduce entry costs for SMEs. To achieve this, the government should fully digitize the business registration process and ensure platforms are user-friendly and accessible to enterprises of all sizes. Registration procedures should be consolidated into a single step across all provinces, including for enterprises subject to additional regulatory oversight under the “control list.” In parallel, eliminating registered capital requirements and simplifying the fee structure, based on enterprise type rather than location or sector. would further lower barriers to entry and incentivize compliance.

    Simplifying the tax system will reduce burdens and encourage formal participation. Abolishing the renewal requirement for tax TINs would eliminate an unnecessary administrative burden and reduce opportunities for informal payments. Tax reporting procedures, particularly for micro and small enterprises, should be simplified and adapted to reflect firms’ varying accounting capacities. The expansion of online tax filing systems and electronic bank transfer mechanisms would improve compliance and reduce transaction costs. Additionally, linking tax compliance to access to credit by using tax history as a basis for creditworthiness can incentivize more accurate income reporting and formal participation in the financial system.

    Modernizing institutions and scaling up e-governance will improve regulatory transparency. To reduce discretionary enforcement and promote a predictable regulatory environment, the government should expand e-government platforms for approvals, licensing, and compliance reporting. Standardized digital procedures will enhance predictability and reduce reliance on informal networks. Ensuring the consistent application of national policies across provinces is essential to providing a level playing field for businesses and increasing confidence in public institutions.

    Investments in infrastructure and skills are essential to strengthen the enabling environment. Improving the SME operating environment requires sustained investment in reliable electricity, roads, and telecommunications—especially in underserved or high-potential regions. Regulatory enforcement mechanisms should be used to ensure the quality and maintenance of infrastructure assets, such as enforcing vehicle weight limits to preserve roads. At the same time, labor market competitiveness should be addressed through wage policy reform and improved retention strategies, including vocational and on-the-job training programs that align more closely with private sector needs.

    Targeted support for women entrepreneurs can unlock inclusive business growth. To increase women’s participation in the formal economy, it is important to recognize the impact of unpaid care responsibilities and promote family-friendly workplace policies. Introducing tax concessions for childcare expenses and expanding mobile-enabled platforms would enhance access to services and information for women entrepreneurs. Targeted training programs, combined with improved access to digital trade platforms, will help address gender-specific barriers in trade, formalization, and enterprise growth.

    [1] The ProFIT survey is a collaborative effort between the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the Asia Foundation, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) of the Government of Australia, and the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LNCCI).

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: A simplified customs clearance model has been launched at the Baktu automobile checkpoint on the Chinese-Kazakh border

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    BEIJING, July 21 (Xinhua) — An innovative customs clearance model that exempts cargo from transshipment after it enters the border crossing was officially launched at the Baktu Port of Tacheng County in northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region on Sunday, the Xinjiang Daily reported.

    This model allows the company to submit a customs declaration to the customs service at the point of departure of the goods or during transportation, which will perform a number of operations in advance, including verification of the declaration and risk analysis. Then the truck will be able to undergo customs clearance at an accelerated pace upon arrival at the control site at the border crossing, which will significantly reduce the storage and waiting time.

    By implementing this model at the Baktu checkpoint, customs clearance time can be reduced from 3-4 hours to less than 10 minutes.

    The new model will also reduce the company’s operating costs, said Yao Fei, an official at a Xinjiang-based trading firm.

    According to the results of the first five months of this year, 292 thousand tons of cargo were imported and exported through the Baktu checkpoint, which is 3.7 percent more than a year earlier, according to data from the Urumqi Customs Office.

    This customs clearance model was first put into operation in Xinjiang at Alashankou Port in November 2023. Based on the successful experience, Urumqi Customs is working to expand this model to other border crossings in Xinjiang. -0-

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Cars damaged by homemade explosive devices

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Cars damaged by homemade explosive devices

    Monday, 21 July 2025 – 4:18 pm.

    Police are investigating two incidents reported by residents in the Kingborough area relating to the use of small, homemade explosive-type devices.
    In these incidents on Saturday night, damage was reported to property, including three separate vehicles.
    Police located a complete exhibit of one of these devices at the scene of a vehicle damage in Kingston Beach.
    This item has been taken for analysis and forensic examination, and investigations continue.
    These are believed to be isolated incidents, with no intent to target anyone.
    If members of the public find an aluminium foil-wrapped parcel or device, about 8cm long, they are advised to leave it alone and contact police.
    Police are calling for information relating to any persons or vehicles seen in the area of Ewing Avenue, Kingston Beach, about 9pm on Saturday and Beach Road and Endeavour Avenue, at Margate, about 9:30pm.
    If anyone has information regarding the incidents, they are urged to contact Kingston police on 131 44 or report anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 or www.crimestopperstas.com.au
    Please quote OR 780 411.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Mikhail Mishustin inspected the automobile checkpoint across the state border Kani-Kurgan

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – Government of the Russian Federation –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The Prime Minister got acquainted with the progress of the border crossing reconstruction and visited the Kanikurgan customs and logistics terminal.

    Mikhail Mishustin inspected the automobile checkpoint across the state border of Kani-Kurgan. With the Minister of the Russian Federation for the Development of the Far East and the Arctic Alexey Chekunkov, the Minister of Transport Andrey Nikitin, the Governor of the Amur Region Vasily Orlov and the Head of the Border Department of the FSB of Russia for the Amur Region Yevgeny Trukhanov

    Kani-Kurgan is one of the key border crossings on the Russian-Chinese border. On June 10, 2022, the official ceremony of opening the movement of freight transport through the border bridge crossing took place and the first trucks went through the Kani-Kurgan-Heihe checkpoint. The nature of the international traffic is freight and passenger.

    Currently, a temporary scheme of operation of the automobile checkpoint (ACP) with restrictions on infrastructure and throughput capacity has been implemented on the Russian side. The temporary scheme was created for the period until the completion of the creation of the permanent ACP Kani-Kurgan. At the same time, on the Chinese side, a permanent ACP with a throughput capacity of 1,100 vehicles per day operates.

    To launch the movement of freight transport in the conditions of the temporary scheme of work of the APP Kani-Kurgan, the service “Electronic queue for vehicles” was created. With the efforts of the attracted investor, at a distance of 4 km from the APP, an accumulation site for 250 trucks for registration and waiting for departure to the checkpoint was equipped. Own software for managing the process of formation of the queue of vehicles was developed and implemented.

    As of July 7, 2025, over 170 thousand vehicles have crossed the bridge during the entire period of operation. This year, the maximum level of traffic flow was recorded in May and amounted to 7943 vehicles, and the average daily figure was 265 vehicles per day.

    Packaging, tires, auto parts, equipment, building materials, clothing, electrical appliances, wheeled special equipment and cars are imported through the border bridge crossing. Soybean and sea buckthorn oil, legumes, lumber, veneer, cosmetics, raw materials for Chinese traditional medicine, and dry milk are exported.

    Since August 2023, transportation of dangerous goods has been open. Helium, liquefied natural gas (LNG), liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) are currently exported. In 2025, the export flow of transport with dangerous goods increased from 91 vehicles in January to 225 vehicles in June.

    In addition, a regular international passenger route between the cities of Blagoveshchensk and Heihe was opened via the bridge on December 10, 2024.

    Mikhail Mishustin during a working trip to the Far East in August 2020 inspected the new Blagoveshchensk-Heihe international road bridge and talked to the builders.

    The Kanikurgan customs and logistics terminal was put into operation in the fourth quarter of 2023. Total area – 180 thousand sq. m. Usable area of the temporary storage warehouse – 22 thousand sq. m. Capacity – simultaneous placement of at least 600 large-capacity vehicles.

    Drive

    Mikhail Mishustin inspected the new airport complex of the Blagoveshchensk International Airport (Ignatievo) named after N.N. Muravyov-Amursky

    The terminal provides comprehensive customs services for import and export cargo flows all year round, 24 hours a day. The complex includes 2 sites:

    — cargo clearance and customs control area. There is a temporary storage warehouse with an area of 3 thousand square meters. The premises provide a loading area for all types of vehicles, rack storage of cargo is organized, and a fleet of equipment has been purchased;

    — a cargo complex. It has 2 transshipment terminals, cold and dry warehouses, including a multi-temperature one.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Roadmap to rebuild trust in water sector unveiled in major new report

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Roadmap to rebuild trust in water sector unveiled in major new report

    Sir Jon Cunliffe publishes final recommendations

    A new integrated regulator for water, stronger consumer advocacy and 9 new regional water authorities to deliver on local priorities are among the final recommendations set out today (21 July) by the Independent Water Commission.

    Chaired by Sir Jon Cunliffe, the Commission sets out 88 recommendations in its report to the UK and Welsh governments to transform the sector.

    The report covers how the system is regulated, how to manage the competing demands on water, how water companies are governed and how critical water infrastructure is kept resilient both now and in the future.

    It follows just under nine months of extensive engagement, analysis and research, including the 50,000+ responses submitted to the Commission’s Call for Evidence.

    Key recommendations include:

    1. Single integrated water regulators. The report recommends a single water regulator in England and a single water regulator in Wales. In England this would replace Ofwat, the Drinking Water Inspectorate and water-environment related functions from the Environment Agency and Natural England. In Wales, Ofwat’s economic responsibilities would be integrated into Natural Resources Wales. Water is a complex sector responsible for the second-largest infrastructure programme in the UK. Water companies will spend £104 billion on investment and operation over the next 5 years. Climate change, population growth and economic development will put huge pressure on water systems over the coming decades. The current regulatory landscape is fragmented and overlapping and fully joined-up regulation is essential for the system to meet the demands of the future and ensure that private water companies act in the public as well as the private interest. A powerful, single regulator for water would simplify the system, reduce duplication, close regulatory gaps and ensure a much stronger “whole-firm” view of each company.* It would also improve investor confidence through a more stable regulatory regime. In making this recommendation, the Commission has looked closely at other regulatory models such as Ofcom.**

    2. Eight new regional water system planning authorities in England and one national authority in Wales. As part of a radical overhaul of water system planning, the report recommends devolving current planning responsibilities and transferring resources from the regulators to 9 new regional water authorities. These would be responsible for developing water investment plans that reflect local priorities and voices. They would streamline existing planning processes and be empowered to direct funding and ensure accountability from all sectors that impact water.  They would be independent and include representation from local councils, public health, environment, agriculture and consumers, among others.

    3. Greater consumer protection. The Commission sets out proposals to improve affordability and customer service. That includes upgrading the consumer body CCW into an Ombudsman for Water to give stronger protection to customers and a clearer route to resolving complaints. It then proposes transfer responsibility for consumer advocacy to Citizens Advice. The Commission also recommends the introduction of a national social tariff to provide consistent support for low-income customers who need support to pay their bills. This will help address the widely different levels of support currently in place, with caps on bills varying by £100s in different parts of the country.

    4. Stronger environmental regulation. The report recommends significant improvements to areas such as Operator Self-Monitoring through greater digitalisation, automation, third-party assurance and inspections. It proposes stronger regulation on abstraction, sludge, drinking water standards and water supply. After one of the driest springs on record, it recommends compulsory water metering, changes to wholesale tariffs for industrial users and greater water reuse and rainwater harvesting schemes. It also sets out where environmental legislation needs updating and why, including proposals for a new long-term and legally binding target for the water environment.

    5. Tighter oversight of water company ownership and governance. The Commission recommends new powers for the regulator to block changes in water company ownership – for example, where investors are not seen to be prioritising the long-term interests of the company and its customers – as well as potential new ‘public benefit’ clauses in water company licences. It recommends that the regulator set “minimum capital” requirements so that companies are less reliant on debt and more financially resilient. On investment, the report sets out proposals to improve investor confidence, including government direction to the regulator to support stability and predictability for long-term investors.  

    6. Public health reforms: The report covers legislative reforms to better manage public health risks in water, recognising the many people who swim, surf and enjoy other water-based activities. These include a) new public health objectives in water quality legislation b) senior public health representation on regional water planning authorities and c) legislative changes to address emerging pollutants such as PFAS, micropollutants and microplastics.

    7. Fundamental reset of economic regulation. More detail is set out on the Commission’s recommendation for a new ‘supervisory’ approach to economic regulation, supporting tailored decisions and earlier interventions in water company oversight. The report also makes recommendations on the Price Review process, including changes to ensure companies are investing in and maintaining assets and to help attract long-term, low-risk investment.

    8. Clear strategic direction. A new long-term National Water Strategy should be published by both the UK and Welsh governments. This should have a minimum horizon of 25 years, with interim milestones on a 5 and 10 year basis. It should be cross-sectoral, with a clear framework for managing the many demands on water. A set of ministerial priorities specifically for the water industry should also be issued to regulators every five years, replacing the current Strategic Policy Statement (SPS). A clear long-term strategy will help drive the right outcomes for consumers, growth and the environment and support long-term investment planning.

    9. Infrastructure & asset health reforms. The report sets out a marked step change in how water infrastructure is managed, monitored and delivered – essential for safeguarding the provision of water and wastewater management for future generations. That includes new requirements for companies to map and assess their assets and new resilience standards that are forward-looking and applied consistently across the industry.

    Sir Jon Cunliffe said:

    Restoring trust has been central to our work. Trust that bills are fair, that regulation is effective, that water companies will act in the public interest and that investors can get a fair return.

    Our recommendations to achieve this are significant. They include the management of the whole water system, regulation of the water industry, the governance and financial resilience of water companies and a stronger voice for local communities and water customers.

    In this report I have considered what is best for the long-term future of water.  This is a complex sector with a highly integrated system, responsible for the second-largest infrastructure programme in the UK.

    Resetting this sector and restoring pride in the future of our waterways matters to us all. In countless conversations in the last nine months I have been struck by the urgent need and passion for change. Doing this will require hard work, strong leadership and sustained commitment. But it can and must be done.

    I am grateful to all to all those who have contributed generously and constructively to our work with their time, expertise and challenge.

    The final report also shares recommendations on implementation, including which reforms can be delivered in the short-term and which require new primary legislation.

    As set out in the Terms of Reference, the Commission has operated independently of UK and Welsh Ministers.

    Sir Jon Cunliffe has been supported by an expert Advisory Group, with leading voices from areas including the environment, public health, consumers, economics and investment.

    Notes to editors

    • The full report is available here: Independent Water Commission final report
    • Sir Jon Cunliffe was appointed on 22 October 2024 to lead the Independent Water Commission. His Terms of Reference were published on gov.uk. 
    • The Commission launched an eight-week Call for Evidence on 27 February 2025. The Commission’s interim report was published on 3 June.
    • *The Commission has looked in detail at the challenges within the existing regulatory framework. The existing model of multiple regulators makes it difficult for the regulatory system to come to a clear, overall view of a water company’s performance and the challenges it faces. Enforcement action in some areas has been described as duplicative. Elsewhere, there are gaps in the oversight of asset health and monitoring water infrastructure delivery. There is an inherent complexity in the current system whereby the EA, NRW and the DWI set the requirements that determine much of water company costs, while Ofwat subsequently determines the revenues companies can receive from water bills to cover those costs. 
    • **Ofcom was established through combining five existing regulators into one. Further detail is covered in Chapter 4 of the final report. 
    • ***Social tariff variability: Evidence returned via the Commission’s Call for Evidence set out the differing levels of support a low-earner would receive under 2024/25 rates depending on where they lived. For example, a single parent with one child, working part-time and receiving Universal Credit with an income under £19,000 per year would have an annual water bill capped at £91.12 in Portsmouth, compared to £364 in Bradford.

    Updates to this page

    Published 21 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • Over three lakh perform Amarnath Yatra in 18 days

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Over 300,000 yatris have undertaken the ongoing Amarnath Yatra in the 18 days since it began on July 3. With 20 days still left for the yatra’s conclusion on August 9, the figure is likely to exceed the official estimate of 3.5 lakh this year.

    Officials said that as of Sunday, 3.07 lakh pilgrims had ‘darshan’ inside the holy cave shrine.

    “Another batch of 3,791 yatris left Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas today for the Valley in two escorted convoys. The first convoy of 52 vehicles carrying 1,208 yatris to the Baltal base camp left at 3:33 a.m., while the second convoy of 96 vehicles carrying 2,583 yatris to the Pahalgam base camp left at 4:06 a.m.,” officials said.

    J&K Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha, who is also the chairman of the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB), visited the Baltal base camp on Sunday. The L-G chaired a meeting of officials to review the arrangements made for the smooth conduct of the yatra. He had lunch with the yatris at one of the ‘Langars’ at Baltal and also interacted with them. The L-G expressed satisfaction with both the security and other arrangements made for the yatra.

    This year, the Bhumi Pujan of ‘Chhari Mubarak’ (Lord Shiva’s Holy Mace) was performed at Pahalgam on July 10. The Chhari Mubarak was taken to Pahalgam by a group of seers led by its sole custodian, Mahant Swami Deependra Giri, from its seat at the Dashnami Akhara Building in Srinagar.

    In Pahalgam, the Chhari Mubarak was taken to the Gauri Shankar temple, where the Bhumi Pujan was held. It was then taken back to its seat at the Dashnami Akhara building. It will begin its final journey towards the cave shrine from the Dashnami Akhara temple in Srinagar on August 4 and will reach the holy cave shrine on August 9, marking the official conclusion of the yatra.

    Authorities have made extensive multi-tier security arrangements for this year’s Amarnath Yatra, as this takes place after the cowardly attack of April 22 in which Pakistan-backed terrorists killed 26 civilians after segregating them based on faith in the Baisaran meadow of Pahalgam. An additional 180 companies of CAPFs have been brought in to augment the existing strength of the Army, BSF, CRPF, SSB, and the local police. The Army has deployed over 8,000 specially trained commandos to secure the passage of the yatris.

    This year, the yatra started on July 3 and will end after 38 days on August 9, coinciding with Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan.

    Yatris approach the holy cave shrine, situated 3,888 metres above sea level in the Kashmir Himalayas, from either the traditional Pahalgam route or the shorter Baltal route. Those using the Pahalgam route pass through Chandanwari, Sheshnag, and Panchtarni to reach the cave shrine, covering a distance of 46 km on foot over four days. Those using the shorter Baltal route trek 14 km to reach the shrine and can return to the base camp the same day after having darshan.

    No helicopter services are available to yatris this year due to security reasons.

    The cave shrine houses an ice stalagmite structure that wanes and waxes with the phases of the moon. Devotees believe the structure symbolizes the mythical powers of Lord Shiva.

    (IANS) 

  • MIL-OSI China: Starbucks China partners with Envision to reduce supply chain emissions

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

    Starbucks China announced a strategic partnership with green technology leader Envision Group on July 18 to develop a comprehensive carbon reduction model across the coffee chain’s supply network.

    Executives from Starbucks China and Envision Group pose during the announcement of their carbon reduction partnership at the third China International Supply Chain Expo in Beijing, July 18, 2025. [Photo courtesy of Starbucks China]

    The partnership, unveiled at the third China International Supply Chain Expo in Beijing, will use a digital carbon management platform to track emissions from Starbucks’ direct and indirect suppliers over the next three years. The platform aims to measure carbon footprints across thousands of Starbucks China products and then develop customized decarbonization strategies for suppliers throughout the supply chain.

    The collaboration expands an existing partnership between the companies focused on sustainable store operations. Starbucks China said the partnership reflects its long-term commitment to the Chinese market and shared development values.

    “After 26 years of deep roots in China, sustainability has become integral to every Starbucks store and every cup of coffee,” said Molly Liu, CEO of Starbucks China. “We look forward to collaborating in depth with Envision to move the supply chain behind our coffee toward sustainability together with Starbucks.”

    Liu said she hopes suppliers will apply decarbonization practices developed for Starbucks to broader operations, potentially driving green transformation across the food and beverage retail industry.

    “Today’s strategic partnership announcement represents our shared commitment to the planet’s future,” said Zhang Lei, Envision founder and chairman. “The warmth of coffee mirrors the warmth of technology. As a zero-carbon technology partner, Envision will help Starbucks build a greener, more sustainable supply chain to create a better world and more aromatic coffee.”

    The companies have already implemented sustainable technologies across more than 7,500 Starbucks stores in China. Starbucks stores nationwide use Envision’s smart IoT operating system to track energy consumption in real time. The system adjusts to individual store operations and peak business hours to optimize energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.

    At the Starbucks China Coffee Innovation Park in Kunshan, Jiangsu province, Envision installed a comprehensive zero-carbon energy system. The facility uses solar panels, energy storage technology, electric vehicle charging stations, and a digital energy management platform, combined with renewable electricity sourcing. The integrated systems aim to reduce energy consumption, lower operating costs and cut carbon emissions across the coffee innovation campus.

    The booth of Starbucks China at the third China International Supply Chain Expo in Beijing, July 18, 2025. [Photo/China.org.cn]

    Starbucks and Envision said the technology deployments at Starbucks facilities show how digital systems and green technology can transform supply chain operations, prompting the expanded partnership between the companies.

    Fu Baozong, deputy director of the International Cooperation Center at the National Development and Reform Commission, said he was pleased to see Starbucks partnering with Envision to establish a benchmark for green development through their supply chain decarbonization model.

    The partnership demonstrates the pivotal role of anchor enterprises in driving sustainable development, Fu said. He noted that under China’s carbon neutrality goals, all industries are pursuing green and low-carbon transformation.

    Suppliers account for about 70% of Starbucks’ total carbon emissions, making upstream supply chain decarbonization a critical challenge. Starbucks said it is addressing supply chain emissions while optimizing its own operations to lead industry-wide low-carbon transformation.

    Over the next three years, Starbucks and Envision will develop a supply chain carbon management platform for Starbucks China based on Envision’s EnOS Ark Carbon Management System. The platform will expand to all direct suppliers and key indirect suppliers, measuring carbon footprints across thousands of Starbucks products to create customized decarbonization plans.

    Starbucks will provide carbon emissions data across all operational areas for suppliers in food, dairy, logistics and packaging sectors, the company said.

    In dairy operations, which represent Starbucks’ largest emissions source, the company and Envision have developed a digital tool for sustainable dairy management in China. Pilot farms are implementing measures including renewable energy adoption, feed formula adjustments and precision feeding to manage carbon footprints and improve emission reduction strategies.

    The two companies said they hope their partnership will influence industry-wide decarbonization practices. Using models from their green stores and innovation park, Starbucks and Envision will share expertise with supply chain partners, the companies said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • Japan’s shaky government loses upper house control

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Japan’s ruling coalition lost control of the upper house in an election on Sunday, further weakening Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba’s grip on power even as he vowed to remain party leader, citing a looming tariff deadline with the United States.

    While the ballot does not directly determine whether Ishiba’s administration will fall, it heaps pressure on the embattled leader who also lost control of the more powerful lower house in October.

    Ishiba’s Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and coalition partner Komeito returned 47 seats, short of the 50 seats it needed to ensure a majority in the 248-seat upper chamber in an election where half the seats were up for grabs.

    That comes on top of its worst showing in 15 years in October’s lower house election, a vote which has left Ishiba’s administration vulnerable to no-confidence motions and calls from within his own party for leadership change.

    Speaking late on Sunday evening after exit polls closed, Ishiba told NHK he “solemnly” accepted the “harsh result”.

    “We are engaged in extremely critical tariff negotiations with the United States…we must never ruin these negotiations. It is only natural to devote our complete dedication and energy to realizing our national interests,” he later told TV Tokyo.

    Asked whether he intended to stay on as premier, he said “that’s right”.

    Japan, the world’s fourth largest economy, faces a deadline of August 1 to strike a trade deal with the United States or face punishing tariffs in its largest export market.

    The main opposition Constitutional Democratic Party finished second with 22 seats.

    Meanwhile, the far-right Sanseito party announced its arrival in mainstream politics, adding 14 seats to one elected previously. Launched on YouTube a few years ago, the populist party found wider appeal with its ‘Japanese First’ campaign and warnings about a “silent invasion” of foreigners.

    ‘HAMMERED HOME’

    Opposition parties advocating for tax cuts and welfare spending struck a chord with voters, as rising consumer prices – particularly a jump in the cost of rice – have sowed frustration at the government’s response.

    “The LDP was largely playing defence in this election, being on the wrong side of a key voter issue,” said David Boling, a director at consulting firm Eurasia Group.

    “Polls show that most households want a cut to the consumption tax to address inflation, something that the LDP opposes. Opposition parties seized on it and hammered that message home.”

    The LDP has been urging fiscal restraint, with one eye on a very jittery government bond market, as investors worry about Japan’s ability to refinance the world’s largest debt pile. Any concessions the LDP must now strike with opposition parties to pass policy will only further elevate those nerves, analysts say.

    “The ruling party will have to compromise in order to gain the cooperation of the opposition, and the budget will continue to expand,” said Yu Uchiyama, a politics professor at the University of Tokyo.

    “Overseas investors’ evaluation of the Japan economy will also be quite harsh.”

    Sanseito, which first emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic spreading conspiracy theories about vaccinations and a cabal of global elites, is among those advocating fiscal expansion.

    But it is its tough talk on immigration that has grabbed attention, dragging once-fringe political rhetoric into the mainstream.

    It remains to be seen whether the party can follow the path of other far-right parties with which it has drawn comparisons, such as Germany’s AfD and Reform UK.

    “I am attending graduate school but there are no Japanese around me. All of them are foreigners,” said Yu Nagai, a 25-year-old student who voted for Sanseito earlier on Sunday.

    “When I look at the way compensation and money are spent on foreigners, I think that Japanese people are a bit disrespected,” Nagai said after casting his ballot at a polling station in Tokyo’s Shinjuku ward.

    Japan, the world’s fastest aging society, saw foreign-born residents hit a record of about 3.8 million last year.

    That is still just 3% of the total population, a much smaller fraction than in the United States and Europe, but comes amid a tourism boom that has made foreigners far more visible across the country.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI Russia: In the first half of 2025, more than 20 million tons of cargo were imported and exported through the Khorgos checkpoint

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    URUMQI, July 21 (Xinhua) — The volume of import and export cargo through Horgos Port in northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region totaled 22.255 million tons in January-June 2025, up 4.3 percent year on year, according to Horgos Customs.

    In this indicator, Khorgos ranked first among all checkpoints in Xinjiang.

    The imported goods mainly included electromechanical products, raw copper and copper materials, agricultural products, foodstuffs, metal ore, concentrate, etc., of which the most notable increase was in the volume of trade in imported food products. And the range of export goods mainly included new energy vehicles, electromechanical products, new and high-tech products, clothing, textiles, etc.

    Located on the China-Kazakhstan border, Horgos Port is the country’s first-class land port with the longest history and the largest total volume of cargo in western China. Through the implementation of a series of reform measures at the road and rail ports, Horgos Port continues to improve the efficiency of customs clearance.

    In the first half of this year, the volume of import and export of goods through the Khorgos railway checkpoint reached 6.923 million tons, an increase of 22 percent year-on-year. -0-

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: 14 people killed when shift bus overturned in Yakutia

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    Vladivostok, July 21 /Xinhua/ – Fourteen people were killed when a shift bus overturned in the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia), TASS reported on Monday, citing the press service of the Interior Ministry for the republic.

    The car accident occurred on Monday at about 03:20 local time on the technological highway of JSC GOK Denisovsky. The driver of the Nefaz 4208-34 vehicle drove off the road, causing the vehicle to overturn from a height of about 25 meters. There were about 36 people on the bus. As a result of the accident, 14 people died, 7 were injured and hospitalized.

    Work to eliminate the consequences of the accident continues. –0–

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Hobart man charged with trafficking significant amount of ice and cocaine

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Hobart man charged with trafficking significant amount of ice and cocaine

    Monday, 21 July 2025 – 1:59 pm.

    Police have charged a 29-year-old Hobart man with trafficking and importing illicit drugs into Tasmania after intercepting a vehicle exiting the Spirit of Tasmania in Devonport on Sunday.
    In a subsequent search of the vehicle, police located and seized three kilograms of ice, two kilograms of cocaine, two vials of testosterone, 30 capsules of steroids and 40 oxycodone tablets. 
    As a result, the man has been charged with trafficking a controlled substance, unlawful importation of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled drug, and dealing with property which subsequently becomes an instrument of crime.
    He has been detained to appear in the Devonport Magistrates Court later today.
    Detective Inspector Michelle Elmer said the drugs seized were highly addictive and have the potential to do significant harm in our community.
    “The methylamphetamine seized has the potential to be broken into 30,000 individual street deals, while the cocaine could result in 10,000 individual deals,” she said.
    Tasmania Police will continue to target offenders who attempt to import illicit substances into Tasmania by conducting both targeted and random screenings of people entering our state by sea and airports. 
    Anyone with information about illicit substances in our community is urged to contact police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or at crimestopperstas.com.au. Information can be provided anonymously.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Traffic Arrangements On 23 July At Tuas Second Link Due To Singapore-Malaysia Chemical Spill Exercise

    Source: Government of Singapore

    Lane closures and traffic diversion from 5am to 2pm

    Singapore, 21 July 2025 – As part of the bilateral cooperation programme under the Malaysia-Singapore Joint Committee on the Environment (MSJCE), the National Environment Agency (NEA), Singapore, and the Department of Environment (DOE), Malaysia, together with several other agencies, will be holding a chemical spill emergency response exercise on Wednesday, 23 July 2025, at the Tuas Second Link from 5.00am to 2.00pm.

    2               During the period of the exercise, all three lanes on the Singapore to Malaysia-bound carriageway on the Tuas Second Link will be closed to vehicular traffic. Motorists travelling towards Malaysia will be diverted to a lane on the opposite carriageway instead. Motorists should plan their journey in advance and closely follow the traffic marshals’ directions on site. Where possible, motorists are advised to avoid the Tuas Second Link when the exercise is ongoing and use the Woodlands Checkpoint during this period. Motorists are also advised to tune in to the Singapore radio stations for traffic updates.

    3               The exercise will simulate the emergency response to a multi-vehicle collision along the Tuas Second Link involving trucks carrying chemicals. The public is advised not to be alarmed.

     

    ~~ End ~~

     

    For more information, please submit your enquiries electronically via the Online Feedback Form or myENV mobile application.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Wacker demos EV battery gear, AI cooling tech at supply chain expo

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

    A view of Wacker’s exhibition stand at the third China International Supply Chain Expo in Beijing, July 17, 2025. [Photo by Xu Xiaoxuan/China.org.cn]

    German chemical company Wacker Chemie AG showcased four new technologies for electric vehicles and data centers at its debut appearance at the China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE) in Beijing last week.

    “Wacker’s debut at CISCE features our latest products and technical solutions developed to support industrial development in China,” said Alvin Hu, president of Wacker China.

    “We remain firmly committed to long-term investment in the Chinese market and believe the expo serves as a vital platform for Wacker to collaborate with Chinese partners, drive innovation and shape future cooperation,” Hu added.

    Wacker unveiled a new flame-retardant silicone rubber developed to protect EV battery components. The material transforms into ceramic at extreme temperatures of 1,000 degrees Celsius, creating a barrier that blocks flame spread while maintaining insulation.

    The company also showcased a thermal interface material for automotive semiconductor packaging. The material withstands temperature swings from minus 40 C to 180 C and maintains stable performance under prolonged high-temperature conditions.

    “As a global leader in silicone manufacturing, Wacker has long been dedicated to the automotive sector, continuously advancing silicone applications in new energy vehicles to support the industry’s transformation,” said Rick Wu, vice president of Construction and Coatings at Wacker Silicones and vice president of Wacker China. 

    Wu said the company plans to collaborate closely with partners across China’s thriving new energy vehicle supply chain to provide materials and solutions for sustainable market growth.

    The company is also targeting China’s booming data center market with silicone-based immersion cooling fluids developed by its Chinese research team. The technology addresses overheating problems in AI servers that traditional air-cooling systems struggle to solve.

    Liu Xuelin, vice president of Wacker China, said the company’s products and technologies are widely used across emerging industries, and that Wacker will use the CISCE platform to explore new applications in China’s industrial sectors and seek partnerships for growth.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: 3rd CISCE shows collaborative innovation achievements in EV industry chain

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

    People view a vehicle at the Smart Vehicle Chain area of the third China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE) in Beijing, capital of China, July 16, 2025. (Xinhua/Fu Tian)

    At the Smart Vehicle Chain area of the third China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE), more than 30 domestic and foreign enterprises and institutions showcased key technologies and products of the EV industry chain, demonstrating the achievements of the collaborative innovation in the sector.

    In addition to the Smart Vehicle Chain area, the Advanced Manufacturing Chain area and the Digital Technology Chain area also featured products and technological applications related to the EV industry. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s railway freight volume reports stable growth in H1

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

    The China-Europe Railway Express (Chengdu-Chongqing) Middle Corridor Ultra-Express Block Train departs from Tuanjiecun Station in southwest China’s Chongqing Municipality, July 9, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    China’s railway freight volume reported stable growth in the first half of 2025, with more efficient network operation and improved services, the national railway operator said Sunday.

    The national railway system transported a total of 1.98 billion tonnes of cargo in the period, marking a year-on-year increase of 3 percent, according to China State Railway Group Co., Ltd. The daily average number of loaded freight cars reached 182,400, up 4 percent from the same period last year.

    The company said it made full use of the integrated rail network and pushed forward market-oriented reforms in railway freight transport to boost logistics capacity, efficiency and service quality.

    During the January-June period, coal transport totaled 1.02 billion tonnes, and the freight volume for metallurgical goods and grain rose 8.6 percent and 9.8 percent, respectively.

    International freight also posted stable performance. The Central Asia freight train service operated 7,349 trains, a 25 percent increase from a year ago. The China-Laos Railway transported nearly 3.03 million tonnes of cross-border cargo, up 9 percent.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: UPDATE: Age correction – Death – Tiwi

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force can confirm that the age of the child who was struck and killed by a palm on Saturday was 4-years-old, while an 11-year-old male was also struck by the palm tree and suffered non-life-threatening injuries.

    The initial age of 7 was incorrect.

    Investigations into the tragic incident remain ongoing. 

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Australian gamemakers level-up with major funding from Screen Australia

    Source: AMP Limited

    21 07 2025 – Media release

    Retopia
    New games capture distinctive stories, landscapes and communities from across the country
    Screen Australia has today announced the latest games and gaming events to be supported through the agency’s industry-leading funding programs – providing $1.4 million for gamemakers to upskill and develop stand-out projects.
    The funding supports 26 games including a hand-drawn puzzle game about a flooded village rebuilding after climate catastrophe, a point-and-click visual novel with small town mysteries to solve, and an action-adventure RPG (Role-Playing Game) about a brave native mouse. It also supports the Freeplay 2025 Events Series, solidifying the agency’s commitment to foster a sector that has both a robust sense of independence and a strong community focus.
    In 2024-25, the agency invested $3 million into the tenacious local industry which included support for 49 games and 200 Australian gamemakers. Initiatives like the Future Leaders Delegation and support for ten Festivals and Events provided Australian independent gamemakers the opportunity to showcase over 270 games for national and international audiences.
    Minister for the Arts Tony Burke said, “Digital Games are a billion dollar global industry and Australia’s sector is growing every year. This funding ensures that we’re backing home-grown talent in order to be at the top of the leader board.”
    Screen Australia Head of Games Joey Egger said, “What struck me about these projects is the depth of talent and the distinctiveness of the content; the diversity of our culture, communities, landscapes and stories really shines through. We’re seeing games being developed all across the country including regional towns such as Wallabadah in New South Wales and Toongabbie in Victoria.”  
    “It’s also incredibly exciting to see another round of projects transitioning from the Emerging Gamemakers Fund through to the Games Production Fund. It reinforces our unique position as an end-to-end avenue for Australian gamemakers to take their projects from concept to prototype, to production and then launch.”
    The past 12 months have seen five games from the Emerging Gamemakers Fund progressing to the Games Production Fund: Monster Snap (WA), Rocketcard Defence (ACT), Wyrmspace Tactics (VIC) and L8R SK8R (QLD), as well as Management in Space (NSW).
    Funded games include:

    Ashes (VIC): For fans of graphic novels and interactive fiction, seasoned players and those new to games, comes adventure game Ashes. The creative team includes producer/developer Clea Frost, lead developer Nick Loki, 2D artists Phoenix Waddell and Jennifer Reuter and composer Trent Francis. It follows 16-year-old skater Azar Warren who, after witnessing a murder, takes refuge in a rural compound with her estranged grandfather.
    Buru and The Old People (NSW): A narrative-driven adventure game set in a vibrant anthropomorphic world rich in Indigenous storytelling. Buru and The Old People is from creative director and recipient of the ‘Rising Star’ award at the 2024 Australian Game Developer Awards Benjamin Armstrong, producer Brooke Collard (Yokai), 2D artist Letoya Muraru, and composer Alexander Tulett.
    Nothing To Do Summer Vacation – Part 1 (NT): A unique point and click visual novel game from lead programmer Adam Prenger and creative director Mel Stringer, an accomplished illustrator and comic artist making her exciting debut in games. In this game, Summer is bored out of her mind in the small town of Driftwood, until fresh mysteries come calling to be uncovered.
    Penguin Colony (VIC): A stylish action-adventure game from producer Megan Faulkner, audio engineer David Mason and creative director Naphtali Faulkner, the developer behind the Independent Games Festival Grand Prize-winning Umurangi Generation. In Penguin Colony, players explore the depths of Antarctica at their own pace as different penguins – unravelling difficult truths along the way.
    Retopia (NSW): From creative lead Jennyfer Ong, lead designer Nicholas King and lead producer James Lockrey, this cosy management game is the latest project from the Australian Game Developer Awards’ 2024 Studio of the Year, Chaos Theory Games. Retopia follows a cast of quirky robot companions as they restore life to a collapsed world by salvaging lost technology, rebuilding community, and nurturing a floating sanctuary in the sky. The game continues Chaos Theory’s tradition of values-driven development after the success of the award-winning Crab God.
    Fern: Seed Guardian (WA): An action-adventure RPG from creative director Sophie Till and technical director Jamie Dougall. In a fantastical Australian bushland, a brave native mouse battles an encroaching, mysterious goo.  She must overcome not only this encroaching danger but also her deep fears, as the Goo uses them to manipulate her perception of reality.
    Slumbering Woods (QLD): An evocative, hand-drawn puzzle adventure game with a unique crafting and building twist from creative director Svitlana Amelina, lead developer Oleg Chernyshenko and sound designer Jane Wei. In a world recovering from a long-past climate catastrophe, players help a flooded village thrive, rebuild and find their way home along the way. Slumbering Woods is financed with support from Screen Queensland’s Games Grants.

    Additional projects supported through the Games Production Fund include Bravest Coconut (QLD), Mission Delta (VIC), Dungeon Breakers (NSW) and Rocketcard Defence (ACT).
    Additional projects supported through the Emerging Gamemakers Fund include SCAV (VIC), Pixellated (VIC), Dead Zone Mycologist (VIC), Dicot (VIC), Ash and Earth: Wilderness Reclaimed (NSW), Spin Spirits (WA), Eclipsia (NSW), Untitled Cube Game (Working Title) (QLD), Stewards of Nu Juno (QLD), Displaced: Oath of Tomes (VIC),Kaiju Critters (QLD)and Trinket (NSW).
    For the full list of funded gamemakers and projects supported throughout the 2024-25FY, please see the Games blocklines here.
    Applications for the Emerging Gamemakers Fund and Games Production Fund are now open. For more information about Games funding at Screen Australia and to apply, click here.
    For accompanying image assets, click here.
    Ashes
    Media enquiries
    Jessica Parry | Senior Publicist (Mon, Tue, Thu)
    + 61 428 767 836  | [email protected]
    All other general/non-media enquiries
    Sydney + 61 2 8113 5800  |  Melbourne + 61 3 8682 1900 | [email protected]

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI: New Cloud Mining Plans to Launch as Crypto Platforms AIXA Miner Prepare for Increased Retail Participation

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Denver, Colorado, July 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — With cryptocurrency prices stabilising at multi-month highs and mining infrastructure adapting to market momentum, several platforms are responding by updating their contract models, particularly for new users entering during this phase of renewed adoption. Starting Monday, July 21, AIXA Miner to roll out revised contract options designed to optimise accessibility, profitability, and energy alignment. These changes come as Bitcoin holds above $115,000 and demand for distributed infrastructure continues to rise globally.

    In a July 19 release, AIXA Miner highlighted backend expansions that support smart contract execution, AI-automated resource allocation, and global data centre load balancing. These updates have enabled more adaptive contract frameworks aligned with live market metrics and energy conditions.

    “The model of locking static contracts without regard for network variables or energy markets is becoming outdated,” said Marcus Enright, a blockchain infrastructure advisor and contributor to MiningData.io. “The next wave of platforms will need to offer contracts that are both cost-reflective and environmentally responsible.”

    In this context, the planned updates are timely. According to a 2025 industry report by Statista, the global cloud mining market is expected to reach $7.3 billion by 2028, with strong momentum driven by smart contract platforms, mobile-friendly interfaces, and broader demand for passive crypto income. New users are particularly active in this space, seeking exposure to crypto mining without owning physical hardware.

    The revised plans are expected to introduce variable-duration options that better accommodate entry-level capital, while being tied to automated performance metrics such as real-time hash price, network difficulty, and carbon offset ratios. This allows contracts to adapt to on-chain congestion and energy usage levels without requiring user-side intervention.

    Critically, the update also reflects a larger push toward sustainable mining practices. The Cambridge Centre for Alternative Finance has reported that 39% of current Bitcoin mining operations use renewable energy sources. However, cloud mining companies that transparently link contract payouts to energy origin—whether hydro, solar, or wind—are seen as taking the next logical step toward building a green blockchain infrastructure.

    AIXA Miner’s operations span the U.S., Southeast Asia, and South America, where their use of clean energy crypto infrastructure is backed by regional energy partnerships and smart grid monitoring. With Monday’s contract refresh, the company is expected to further integrate energy source transparency into its offering, responding to both ESG-minded users and regulatory shifts in key markets.

    “As user awareness grows, so does the expectation that crypto income should be both profitable and environmentally grounded,” said Elaine Zhang, Research Fellow at the Global CleanTech Blockchain Forum. “The idea of green mining isn’t just about optics—it’s about data traceability and operational accountability.”

    These developments coincide with broader market interest in tokenised yield products, staking-based derivatives, and decentralised investment vehicles—all of which now intersect with cloud mining as a high-profit platform model. The modularity of upcoming contracts is seen as a step toward better integrating cloud mining with the wider DeFi and blockchain ecosystem.

    With rollout scheduled for Monday, July 21st 2025, market watchers will be looking to see how updated mining plans compare across platforms in terms of returns, smart contract integration, and energy sourcing. For new entrants, the changes represent a chance to access adaptive contracts in a rising market—one that increasingly values transparency, automation, and sustainability.

    Media Contact:
    PR Division
    info@aixaminer.com
    https://aixaminer.com

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: New Cloud Mining Plans to Launch as Crypto Platforms AIXA Miner Prepare for Increased Retail Participation

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Denver, Colorado, July 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — With cryptocurrency prices stabilising at multi-month highs and mining infrastructure adapting to market momentum, several platforms are responding by updating their contract models, particularly for new users entering during this phase of renewed adoption. Starting Monday, July 21, AIXA Miner to roll out revised contract options designed to optimise accessibility, profitability, and energy alignment. These changes come as Bitcoin holds above $115,000 and demand for distributed infrastructure continues to rise globally.

    In a July 19 release, AIXA Miner highlighted backend expansions that support smart contract execution, AI-automated resource allocation, and global data centre load balancing. These updates have enabled more adaptive contract frameworks aligned with live market metrics and energy conditions.

    “The model of locking static contracts without regard for network variables or energy markets is becoming outdated,” said Marcus Enright, a blockchain infrastructure advisor and contributor to MiningData.io. “The next wave of platforms will need to offer contracts that are both cost-reflective and environmentally responsible.”

    In this context, the planned updates are timely. According to a 2025 industry report by Statista, the global cloud mining market is expected to reach $7.3 billion by 2028, with strong momentum driven by smart contract platforms, mobile-friendly interfaces, and broader demand for passive crypto income. New users are particularly active in this space, seeking exposure to crypto mining without owning physical hardware.

    The revised plans are expected to introduce variable-duration options that better accommodate entry-level capital, while being tied to automated performance metrics such as real-time hash price, network difficulty, and carbon offset ratios. This allows contracts to adapt to on-chain congestion and energy usage levels without requiring user-side intervention.

    Critically, the update also reflects a larger push toward sustainable mining practices. The Cambridge Centre for Alternative Finance has reported that 39% of current Bitcoin mining operations use renewable energy sources. However, cloud mining companies that transparently link contract payouts to energy origin—whether hydro, solar, or wind—are seen as taking the next logical step toward building a green blockchain infrastructure.

    AIXA Miner’s operations span the U.S., Southeast Asia, and South America, where their use of clean energy crypto infrastructure is backed by regional energy partnerships and smart grid monitoring. With Monday’s contract refresh, the company is expected to further integrate energy source transparency into its offering, responding to both ESG-minded users and regulatory shifts in key markets.

    “As user awareness grows, so does the expectation that crypto income should be both profitable and environmentally grounded,” said Elaine Zhang, Research Fellow at the Global CleanTech Blockchain Forum. “The idea of green mining isn’t just about optics—it’s about data traceability and operational accountability.”

    These developments coincide with broader market interest in tokenised yield products, staking-based derivatives, and decentralised investment vehicles—all of which now intersect with cloud mining as a high-profit platform model. The modularity of upcoming contracts is seen as a step toward better integrating cloud mining with the wider DeFi and blockchain ecosystem.

    With rollout scheduled for Monday, July 21st 2025, market watchers will be looking to see how updated mining plans compare across platforms in terms of returns, smart contract integration, and energy sourcing. For new entrants, the changes represent a chance to access adaptive contracts in a rising market—one that increasingly values transparency, automation, and sustainability.

    Media Contact:
    PR Division
    info@aixaminer.com
    https://aixaminer.com

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Next steps for self-driving vehicles as future passengers help shape self-driving vehicles law

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Next steps for self-driving vehicles as future passengers help shape self-driving vehicles law

    Have your say on the proposed automated passenger services permitting scheme until 28 September 2025.

    • first taxi-, private-hire- and bus-like services of self-driving vehicles can hit the road from spring 2026, following recent decision to fast-track pilots
    • process to shape key laws regulating the new self-driving vehicle passenger services starts today as part of next steps towards rollout of the vehicles
    • new technology could provide more accessible travel options and boost transport in rural areas, while creating 38,000 jobs and unlocking a £42 billion industry – all part of the Plan for Change

    The public and industry are being encouraged to help shape the future of self-driving vehicles, as they are invited to offer their views to make them safe and accessible before the first services become available next year.

    Today (21 July 2025), Future of Roads Minister Lilian Greenwood has launched a consultation on the automated passenger services (APS) permitting scheme and the draft statutory instrument, a key legal element of how taxi-, private-hire- and bus-like services of self-driving vehicles will be regulated once they hit roads in Great Britain.

    Safety, innovation, world-leading regulation and accessibility will be at the forefront of the consultation – with the self-driving vehicles rollout aiming to help reduce human error, which contributes to 88% of all road collisions.

    Self-driving vehicles can provide greater choice and flexibility for passengers to get around more easily, including during unsociable hours. They could also help add new public transport options in rural areas to boost connectivity for local communities and improve mobility, accessibility and independence for those unable to drive.

    The consultation follows the recent government decision to fast-track pilots of self-driving passenger vehicles to Spring 2026, helping the industry to innovate and grow. This will allow firms to pilot small-scale services without a safety driver for the first time – which could be available to members of the public to book via an app – before a potential wider rollout when the Automated Vehicles Act is implemented in full from the second half of 2027.

    Bringing forward the pilots of self-driving vehicles will help the government deliver the Plan for Change by creating 38,000 jobs to put money in people’s pockets, driving investment to back British engineering excellence and unlocking an industry worth £42 billion by 2035.

    Future of Roads Minister, Lilian Greenwood, said:

    Self-driving vehicles are one of the most exciting opportunities to improve transport for so many people, especially those in rural areas or unable to drive. We want to work with passengers and industry to make this new form of transport safe and accessible, as we take our next steps towards adoption.

    This technology doesn’t just have the potential to improve transport for millions of people. It will help stimulate innovation, create thousands of jobs, and drive investment to put more money in people’s pockets – all part of delivering our Plan for Change.

    Through the consultation, representative groups, industry stakeholders, trade unions and members of the public will be able to make their views heard and influence future government policy over a variety of areas critical for self-driving vehicles to run safely and efficiently.

    These include:

    • how self-driving vehicles can be made as accessible as possible for disabled and older people
    • how services of self-driving vehicles are approved by councils
    • when a permit to operate a service should be varied, suspended or withdrawn

    Gavin Jackson, CEO of Oxa, said:

    As the first company to trial an autonomous vehicle on UK roads back in 2016, we are delighted to see the UK continuing to progress towards making automated vehicle services a commercial reality.

    The APS scheme will enable the deployment of innovative public transport services that will augment our current transport network, making it easier and more accessible than ever to get around.

    The APS scheme is an essential part of the of the Automated Vehicles Act, which will regulate taxi-, private-hire- and bus-like self-driving vehicles once it is implemented in full in the second half of 2027.

    The Automated Vehicles Act will require self-driving vehicles to achieve a level of safety at least as high as competent and careful human drivers, and they will undergo rigorous safety tests before being allowed on our roads.

    Self-driving trials have been taking place in the UK since January 2015, with British companies Wayve and Oxa spearheading significant breakthroughs in the technology.

    The UK is already host to a thriving self-driving sector. Wayve secured a record-breaking investment of over $1 billion and announced recent partnerships with Nissan and Uber, while Oxa has already supported ‘bus-like’ services in the US and started rolling out self-driving vehicles at Heathrow Airport to improve baggage handling.

    Roads media enquiries

    Media enquiries 0300 7777 878

    Switchboard 0300 330 3000

    Updates to this page

    Published 21 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Work begins soon to raise flood-prone area near Te Karaka, SH2

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    Work begins soon on a major flood resilience project – Hakanui Straight (formerly Nesbitt’s Dip) – on State Highway 2 near Te Karaka.

    The upgrade will see an 850 metres long flood-prone section of the highway raised by 3 metres, new drainage installed, the main culvert for Hakanui Stream replaced and safety barriers installed. 

    The work is being delivered by Transport Rebuild East Coast (TREC) and local contractor crews, and is one of two projects which have been added to the recovery programme funded by savings found from other projects. The second project will involve flood resilience on SH35 at Rototahe.

    TREC project manager Richard Bayley says the work will keep communities connected and freight moving and ensure a stronger, safer and more reliable route.

    Mr Bayley says in the past this stretch of road had to close during heavy weather events because the area is prone to flooding.

    “These closures create disruption for communities and the flow of freight, as well as causing safety risks for emergency services.

    “To reduce the risk of future flooding, we’re raising the highway and upgrading drainage, making it stronger, safer, and more reliable for everyday travel and emergency response.

    “The Hakanui Straight project spans a vital link for freight between the Bay of Plenty and the East Coast, and ensuring its resilience is essential for businesses, residents, and regional connectivity,” says Mr Bayley.

    The improvements being made are particularly significant for Te Karaka residents, who faced severe flooding during Cyclone Gabrielle when water breached the stopbanks of the Waipaoa River. In the early hours of 14 February 2023, around 500 residents evacuated to surrounding hills, watching as the floodwaters overtook their homes, workplaces, and marae. 

    Kaitiaki of Te Aitanga-a-Māhaki, Pimia Wehi, says working with TREC throughout the design process has been crucial in ensuring the upgrade meets the community’s needs. 

    “This is a huge step forward for Te Karaka, Puha, and Whatatutu. The devastation of Cyclone Gabrielle is still fresh in our minds as families lost their homes, businesses were destroyed, and many of us were stranded without communication for more than a day,” says Pimia Wehi. 

    “Seeing this work begin is a relief. It means our people will have better access to emergency routes and won’t have to face being completely cut off again.” 

    Mr Bayley says early enabling work, such as the site office establishment, fencing and services relocation, is expected to begin this week, weather permitting.

    “Road users aren’t likely to notice too much activity until the physical work begins, which is expected next month.

    “At that stage, short traffic delays are expected while crews carry out the upgrades. Traffic will be managed by closing the road shoulder during early works, followed by one lane closures with stop/go to maintain two-way traffic during major works with reduced speed limits along the work site.

    “Please drive to the conditions and be aware of the increased truck movements and trucks crossing the road.”

    About the name Hakanui Straight

    The project name is ‘Hakanui Straight’ but was formerly Nesbitt’s Dip. This is a change requested by hapū and Iwi representatives as the name reflects the area’s cultural and historical significance. The Hakanui Stream was important for local food gathering, mahinga kai, and as a travel route for waka.

    With the road being elevated to ensure safer and quicker evacuations during floods, ‘Straight’ (rather than ‘Dip’), embodies strength, directness, and a clear path forward.

    What’s changing at Hakanui Straight?

    • An 850-metre section of SH2 will be raised by approximately three metres to reduce flood risks and keep the road open in severe weather. 
    • The Hakanui Stream culvert will be upgraded with a larger, 1.8-metre-diameter structure to handle higher water volumes, prevent highway flooding and allow safe fish passage to protect local aquatic life.

    For more updates, visit the SH2 Tairāwhiti recovery project page 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Elles Road roundabout, Invercargill, gets its fourth leg

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    Invercargill’s Clifton industrial area will get a new, safer and more efficient access point from next week.

    New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) advises the new access off the Elles Road roundabout, across the recently upgraded KiwiRail level crossing, will be available from Monday 28 July. It will be the key route to the Invercargill City Council (ICC) Pound, ICC Wastewater Treatment Plant and Freight Haulage.

    “The existing access via Lake Street, about 300 metres south of the Elles Road roundabout will be closed,” says Jason Forbes, Senior Project Manager for NZTA in Southland.

    The additional access takes the Elles Road roundabout to four legs (as seen in the aerial map below).

    Mr Forbes says there will be signs advising of the closure of Lake St ahead of 28 July and people should find the new, wider route preferable to Lake St.

    “Lake St is attracting increasing numbers of large trucks and with further developments in this area now underway, this traffic growth means this intersection is no longer fit for purpose,” Mr Forbes says.

    “The new access off the Elles Road roundabout will have new bells and barrier arms to protect road users at the rail line, there will also be a separated cycle path adjacent to the new road which will have automatic gates at the rail crossing to protect cyclists and pedestrians.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Six youths have been arrested for arson and police pursuit

    Source: New South Wales – News

    Six teenagers have been arrested after a pursuit through metropolitan Adelaide and the arson of an Aldinga Beach house this morning.

    About 12.50 am Monday 21 July Police and emergency services were called to a house at Pebble Court after reports of fire in the garage and house. Fortunately the occupants were not home at the time. MFS were quickly on scene and extinguished the blaze.

    When police arrived, they saw a Subaru station wagon leaving the street. Police recognised the car as a stolen vehicle which had been stolen from a Mitchell Park home last week. Police attempted to stop the car, with the driver refusing to pull over.

    The car was pursued by patrols along with the assistance from PolAir and Dog Operations Unit on South Road, along the Southern Expressway, through to the eastern suburbs before making its way to Two Wells where the tyres were successfully spiked by patrols at Port Wakefield Road and Mallala Road.

    Six youths ran from the car and were arrested on Artisan Road with the assistance of PD Duke without incident.

    The driver, a 17-year-old boy from Ottoway has been arrested for arson, illegal use, dangerous driving to escape pursuit

    Four 15-year-old boys have been arrested for arson and illegal use.

    One 16-year-old boy has been arrested for arson and illegal use.

    All six will appear in the Youth Court later today.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI China: 7.2-magnitude quake hits waters off Kamchatka Peninsula: CENC

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

    A 7.2-magnitude earthquake jolted the far offshore area east of the Kamchatka Peninsula at 2:49 p.m. Sunday (Beijing Time), according to the China Earthquake Networks Center (CENC).

    The epicenter was monitored at 52.90 degrees north latitude and 160.45 degrees east longitude. The quake struck at a depth of 10 km, said the CENC.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • PM Modi lauds TVS Motor company for chronicling the beauty of Kutch

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said it was a delight to meet top executives from TVS Motor Company and commended them for their efforts in capturing the beauty of Kutch.

    Venu Srinivasan, Chairman Emeritus of TVS Motor Company, and Sudarshan Venu, Managing Director, met the Prime Minister and presented him with the TVSM x Rann Utsav 2025 Coffee Table Book.

    “Glad to have met Shri Venu Srinivasan Ji and Mr. Sudarshan Venu. I commend them for their effort to chronicle the beauty of Kutch and also encourage motorcyclists to visit the region,” the Prime Minister said in a post on X.

    The executives described the meeting as an honour.

    “In February this year, TVS Motor Company, in partnership with Gujarat Tourism, curated an extraordinary motorcycling experience at Rann Utsav, showcasing the region’s culture, landscapes, and heritage — inspired by PM Modi’s vision to promote Kutch as a tourist destination among the youth,” they said on X.

    The coffee table book highlights Kutch’s rich heritage and mesmerising landscapes.Created around the theme Saari Muzaafiri, the book captures key locations and destinations in the Rann of Kutch from dawn to dusk, offering a visual treat for readers.

    “We can say with certainty that Kutch is a motorcyclist’s delight! Come, bike there… you will be awestruck for life,” Srinivasan said on X.

    Earlier this year, PM Modi had invited everyone to Gujarat’s iconic Rann Utsav, which concluded in March.

    Promising an unforgettable experience for hodophiles, PM Modi shared a video on X capturing the scenic beauty of Kutch, writing, “Kutch awaits you all! Come, discover the pristine White Rann, the spectacular culture, and the warm hospitality of Kutch during the ongoing Rann Utsav.”

    In a separate LinkedIn post, the Prime Minister wrote: “The White Rann beckons! An unforgettable experience awaits! Come, immerse yourself in a unique mix of culture, history, and breathtaking natural beauty.” The post also featured photos from his visit to Kutch, along with a write-up titled Rann Utsav – A Lifetime Experience.

    —IANS

  • MIL-OSI China: South China provinces brace for Typhoon Wipha

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

    GUANGZHOU, July 20 — South China’s Hainan and Guangdong provinces have been placed on high alert as Typhoon Wipha, the sixth typhoon of the year, is expected to make landfall along the coast Sunday afternoon or evening.

    As of 7 a.m. Sunday, Typhoon Wipha was observed at 21.7 degrees north latitude and 114.9 degrees east longitude, with the maximum wind speed near its center reaching 33 meters per second. It is expected to move westward at around 25 km per hour, with its intensity continuing to strengthen, according to meteorological forecasts.

    In Guangdong’s Zhuhai City, where strong winds and heavy rainfall are forecast, authorities raised the typhoon alert to red and upgraded the emergency response for typhoon control to Level I at 3 a.m. Sunday, according to the local meteorological bureau.

    The Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge was temporarily closed in response to the typhoon. Outbound customs clearance at Zhuhai Port of the bridge was suspended at 2:30 a.m., followed by the closure of the main bridge at 3:30 a.m., according to the bridge’s management bureau.

    School classes, transportation and business activities have been suspended across Zhuhai, and residents have been urged to stay indoors.

    At 8:30 a.m. Sunday, Hainan raised its emergency response for flood and typhoon control from Level IV to Level III, as strong winds and rainstorms are expected to impact the island province between Sunday and Tuesday, according to the provincial emergency management bureau.

    In the provincial capital of Haikou, various departments are taking precautions ahead of the typhoon.

    The maritime authority is carrying out electronic inspections in affected waters, maintaining real-time vessel monitoring and deploying personnel for on-site checks.

    Water affairs departments have organized drainage teams to inspect and maintain facilities, opened manhole covers in advance to facilitate drainage, and set up warning signs.

    The power department has stationed repair vehicles in key areas, while emergency plans have been activated for vegetable reserves to ensure market supply.

    China’s national observatory issued a yellow alert for Typhoon Wipha on Saturday.

    China has a four-tier emergency response system, with Level I being the most severe response, and a four-tier color-coded weather warning system, with red representing the most severe, followed by orange, yellow and blue.

    MIL OSI China News –