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  • MIL-OSI Security: Red Flag 25-1 Celebrates 50 Years of Excellence

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    NELLIS AIR FORCE BASE, Nev.  –  

    Red Flag 25-1 takes flight at Nellis Air Force Base uniting U.S. forces with allies from the Royal Air Force and Royal Australian Air Force in a combined exercise to enhance combat readiness and strengthen partnerships.

    This iteration of Red Flag marks 50 years of high-end training, highlighting Red Flag’s enduring legacy of preparing its participants to be combat-ready and mission-effective in the face of evolving threats. 

    For half a century, Red Flag has provided warfighters with realistic training to prepare for combat against evolving adversaries. What began in 1975 to address lessons learned in Vietnam has grown into an international training ground with participants from 29 nations honing their skills in joint and allied operations. This year, the RAF and RAAF bring critical expertise to the fight.

    “Integrating combat capability is what Red Flag is all about and being ready for integrated combat operations with our Allies is key to success in any potential future conflict,” said Col. Eric Winterbottom, commander of the 414th Combat Training Squadron. “The Royal Air Force and Royal Australian Air Force bring not only advanced capabilities but also a wealth of operational experience that enriches everyone’s experience in this exercise. Red Flag is where we come together as one team to sharpen our edge, build trust, and prepare for tomorrow’s challenges today.”

    Red Flag continues to focus on overcoming the complexities of Great Power Competition, with an emphasis on integrating air, space, and cyber capabilities to counter advanced threats. Training scenarios push participants to operate in contested and degraded environments, forcing rapid decision-making and teamwork under pressure. The RAF and RAAF play key roles in these scenarios, demonstrating their ability to seamlessly integrate with U.S. forces in highly dynamic combat situations.

    With over 500,000 military personnel trained and more than 420,000 sorties flown since its inception, Red Flag’s legacy continues to evolve. Allied participation is a cornerstone of that legacy ensuring that joint and partner forces are ready to respond to threats anywhere in the world.

    Red Flag 25-1 highlights the enduring importance of allied partnerships demonstrating that the U.S., RAF, and RAAF are stronger together in facing the challenges of the future.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: PSI Chairman Johnson, House Judiciary Chairman Jordan, and Rep. Loudermilk Sent Letters to AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, and the FBI About the Unsolved January 6, 2021 Pipe Bomb Investigation

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Ron Johnson

    WASHINGTON – Yesterday, Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations Chairman Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan (R-Ohio), and Representative Barry Loudermilk (R-Ga.) sent letters to AT&T Inc., T-Mobile USA, Inc., Verizon Communications Inc., and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) seeking answers about the FBI’s use of cellular data in the investigation into the pipe bombs that were discovered on Jan. 6, 2021 in Washington, D.C.

    The letter noted that according to a former FBI official who led the investigation, some of the cellular data that the FBI relied on during its investigation was corrupted, potentially frustrating law enforcement’s efforts to locate the individual(s) responsible for planting the pipe bombs.

    However, according to a Jan. 2, 2025 House Subcommittee report, the major cellular carriers stated that they neither provided “corrupted” data to the FBI nor received any notification from the FBI of any issues accessing the cellular data.

    The bicameral letters requested the cellular carriers and the FBI provide the actual data that was analyzed for the Senate Subcommittee and House Committee to review and all communications between the FBI and the cellular carriers regarding the FBI’s request and analysis of the data.

    Read more about the lawmakers’ oversight letters in the New York Post.

    Chairman Johnson, Chairman Jordan, and Representative Loudermilk’s letters are linked below:

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: February 4th, 2025 Senator Martin Heinrich on CNN: “My Constituents Did Not Vote for This Chaos”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich

    Watch the full video here

    WASHINGTON — In an interview with Jim Sciutto on CNN’s The Situation Room, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) slammed Elon Musk and Donald Trump’s actions that are wreaking havoc on New Mexicans and throwing the government into chaos.

    During the interview, Heinrich vocalized the concerns of his constituents who continue to write-in and call his office, opposing Trump’s harmful actions and raising the impacts of those actions on their livelihoods and financial security. 

    “No one voted to have Elon Musk in charge of their personal data. No one voted to have him ransacking federal agencies that many of my constituents rely on for various things. That is where I think we need to really draw a contrast that, at least for my constituents, they voted for lower gas prices, they voted for cheaper eggs. They did not vote for this chaos,” Heinrich said.

    VIDEO: U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) on CNN’s The Situation Room, February 4, 2025.

    On Tulsi Gabbard’s Nomination:

    Sciutto asked, “You voted against her, calling her ‘a national security risk.’ Why?”

    Heinrich said, “One, there’s the issue of whether she’s qualified, but much more weighing on my mind than that is the issue of judgment. And if you look at some of her actions, especially her travel in the Middle East — with her background — when we travel to places like that, as members of Congress, we go with the State Department. Every meeting is carefully vetted. That is not what this was.”

    Heinrich continued, “She met with the Grand Mufti of Syria who had threatened suicide bombers against the United States. She met with Bashar al-Assad. My goodness, I can’t imagine a more off script foreign policy trip. And if that’s how you roll, and you’re going to be in charge of coordinating all of these intelligence agencies, and you don’t accept the information that comes from those agencies on a regular basis, it just makes no sense.”

    On Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s Nomination:

    Heinrich stated, “I’m actually kind of a health food person and some of the things that RFK Jr. has said in the past, on the front of high-quality food, I can relate to. But the science of this vaccination denial is not only unscientific and irresponsible, it makes every mother who’s got an autistic kid question everything she ever did. It’s deeply irresponsible.”

    On the Israel-Gaza Conflict:

    Sciutto asked, “Earlier today, Trump said that he would like to see the Palestinian people leave Gaza and go to Jordan or Egypt. We should note, the leaders of Jordan and Egypt said they have no interest in doing so. What would that mean to you? Does that sound to you like the forced migration of people away from their home? Is that something that American presidents should be advocating for?”

    Heinrich said, “I don’t think it’s our role to take people from land that they’ve inhabited and tell them what their future should be. I think our role should be trying to encourage a future for the Israelis that creates security for them, for the Palestinians that create some sovereignty and reconstruction and a life that’s not under a terrorist organization. You know, this is a President who says outrageous things because he thinks it always will result in the deal. I’m not sure that works as well in the Middle East.”

    On President Trump Breaking Constitutional Norms and the Law:

    Heinrich said, “I think the thing that bothers me the most is that when you are willing to break the fundamentals of the Constitution, the fundamentals of law, like the Impoundment Act of 1974 and say that Congress doesn’t matter, and go into USAID or Treasury and start turning off the switches to individual programs, then you can do that to American citizens. If you can get away with that, if you can say, I’m going to turn off this USAID program. You can say this person is not going to get their Social Security.”

    On Republican Colleagues Failing to Stand Up to President Trump and Elon Musk:

    Heinrich said, “They’re not willing. They’re scared. The amount of pressure that this administration has been able to put on members of Congress, and up till now, we’re just not seeing a lot of profiles in courage.”

    Heinrich continued, “Our constitutional principles are being tested. There’s going to be a role for the courts in that battle. There’s going to be a role for Congress in that battle, and there’s going to be a role for the American people.”

    “No one voted to have Elon Musk in charge of their personal data. No one voted to have him ransacking federal agencies that many of my constituents rely on for various things. That is where I think we need to really draw a contrast that, at least for my constituents, they voted for lower gas prices, they voted for cheaper eggs. They did not vote for this chaos,” Heinrich concluded.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville Promotes Access to High-Quality Job Training through Pell Grants

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Tommy Tuberville (Alabama)

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) joined his colleagues in introducing the Jumpstarting Our Businesses by Supporting Students (JOBS) Act, legislation to help more Americans get good-paying jobs by allowing students to use federal Pell Grants—needs-based education grants for lower-income individuals—to pay for shorter-term job training programs for the first time. Currently, students can only use Pell Grants for two- and four-year colleges and universities. By expanding Pell Grant eligibility, the JOBS Act would help close the skill gap by allowing people to access job training they might otherwise be unable to afford but need for careers in high-demand fields.

    “A college degree isn’t the one-size-fits-all solution to achieving the American dream,” said Sen. Tuberville. “Since I got to Congress, I’ve been focused on expanding workforce training and skills-based learning programs. Students should not be discouraged from entering the labor industry because they cannot afford the mandatory training. Alabama relies on these skilled workers, and Congress should be making it easier for them to pursue necessary training, not harder. This bill will open up more career opportunities for students in an evolving job market. I’m proud to join my colleagues in cosponsoring the JOBS Act.”

    Joining U.S. Senator Tuberville in cosponsoring the legislation are U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Cory Booker (D-NJ), John Boozman (R-AR), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Chris Coons (D-DE), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Steve Daines (R-MT), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), John Hoeven (R-ND), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Angus King (I-ME), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Mark Warner (D-VA), Roger Wicker (R-MS), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).

    The JOBS Actis supported by Advance CTE, the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC), the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE), the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT), the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM), Business Roundtable, the Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP), the Exhibitions and Conferences Alliance (ECA), Higher Learning Advocates (HLA), HP Inc., the Information Technology Industry Council (ITI), Jobs for the Future (JFF), the Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies, NAF, the National Association of Workforce Boards (NAWB), the National Association of Workforce Development Professionals (NAWDP), the National Skills Coalition (NSC), the Progressive Policy Institute (PPI), Rebuilding America’s Middle Class (RAMC), and the Virginia Community College System.

    Read full text of the legislation here. 

    BACKGROUND:

    The JOBS Act would allow Pell Grants to be used for high-quality job training programs that are at least eight weeks in length and lead to industry-recognized credentials or certificates. Under current law, Pell Grants can only be applied toward programs that are over 600 clock hours or at least 15 weeks in length, rendering students in shorter-term high-quality job training programs ineligible for crucial assistance.

    Specifically, the JOBS Act would amend the Higher Education Act by:

    • Expanding Pell Grant eligibility to students enrolled in rigorous and high-quality, short-term skills and job training programs that lead to industry-recognized credentials and certificates and ultimately employment in high-wage, high-skill industry sectors or careers.
    • Ensuring students who receive Pell Grants are earning high-quality postsecondary credentials by requiring that the credentials:
      • Meet the standards under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), such as meaningful career counseling and aligning programs to in-demand career pathways or registered apprenticeship programs,
      • Are recognized by employers, industry, or sector partnerships,
      • Align with the skill needs of industries in the state or local economy,
      • Are approved by the state workforce board in addition to the U.S. Department of Education.
    • Defining eligible job training programs as those providing career and technical education instruction at an institution of higher education, such as a community or technical college that provides:
      • At least 150 clock hours of instruction time over a period of at least eight weeks,
      • Training that meets the needs of the local or regional workforce and industry partnerships,
      • Streamlined ability to transfer credits so students can continue to pursue further education in their careers,
      • Students with licenses, certifications, or credentials that meet the hiring requirements of multiple employers in the field for which the job training is offered.

    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP, and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police operation concludes in Waterview

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    The Police operation in Waterview has now concluded and a man is in custody.

    Earlier this afternoon, Police had information that this man had arrived on Tutuki Street, at a property of a person known to him.

    He had made a number of concerning comments, before the occupant was able to leave the address.

    Police were soon in the area and cordoned off Tutuki Street, with ongoing attempts to engage with this man this afternoon.

    Police had information the man was potentially in possession of a firearm and as such the Armed Offenders Squad was deployed to the area.

    This evening, Police made entry to the address and the 43-year-old man was taken into custody.

    Police enquiries remain ongoing at the location, with charges to be decided in due course.

    We acknowledge the public’s cooperation while this matter was resolved.

    ENDS.

    Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Charges – Firearms Incident – Coconut Grove

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force have charged two men, 19 and 22-years-old, following a firearms incident in Coconut Grove yesterday.

    Each have been charged with Aggravated Robbery, Theft and Recklessly Endangering Life – Aggravated.

    They have been remanded to appear in Katherine Local Court on Thursday 6 February 2025.

    A 22-year-old female was released pending further investigation.

    Police continue to call for information in relation to the whereabouts of the alleged firearm that was used and anyone with information can call police on 131 444 and quote reference P25034096.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: 3rd MLG CG Completes JGSDF, ROK Visits Ahead of Bilateral Exercises

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    CAMP KINSER, OKINAWA, Japan  –  

    Brigadier General Kevin Collins, the commanding general of 3rd Marine Logistics Group, completed today a multinational visit of U.S., Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, and Republic of Korea self-defense and military commands ahead of scheduled bilateral exercises in Japan and Korea, Jan. 27 through Feb. 4, 2025.

    With multiple bilateral exercises on the horizon for 3rd MLG, Collins and his command staff visited multiple units to better understand their capabilities and to discuss better integration with the MLG for upcoming bilateral exercises and preparedness training for any humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations. As the logistics arm of III Marine Expeditionary Force, 3rd MLG’s understanding of the housing and distribution of allied forces’ equipment and how to further train the blending of respective countries’ logistics systems is crucial for supporting the Marine Corps mission in the Pacific, in either contested environments or areas impacted by natural disasters.

    In Japan, Collins met with the director of logistics for the Western Army at Camp Kengun in Kumamoto, followed by a tour of the Kyushu District Depot and its Western Army Logistics Support Unit, visits timed concurrently with planning conferences about the upcoming exercise Resolute Dragon, a training evolution hosted by III MEF and the Western Army that rehearses operations over maritime terrain to strengthen bilateral command, control, and multi-domain maneuver capabilities. Additionally, he visited 3rd MLG Marines stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni and Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka, as the MLG has personnel dispersed across mainland Japan and Okinawa as logistical liaisons at sister units. Further, he toured U.S. ordnance and other supply facilities at MCAS Iwakuni, the Kure Ammunition Depot, and Yokohama North Dock on CFAY.

    In Korea, Collins met with both U.S. and ROK leadership at United States Forces Korea before visiting Marine Corps Forces, Korea, where they discussed the upcoming Korea Theater of Operations training package, which includes exercises Freedom Banner, Freedom Shield, and the Korean Marine Exchange Program. Freedom Banner is the maritime offload, dispersal, and retrograde of equipment in support of follow-on training events; Freedom Shield strengthens the combined defensive capabilities of both countries’ armed forces in a changing security environment; and KMEP focuses on bolstering ROK and U.S. Marine Corps interoperability as a unified, regional littoral force.

    With these shared exercises ahead of 3rd MLG, such command visits and planning iterations further codifies the alliances built upon by previous training events. 3rd MLG is focused on enhancing cooperation with partner nations, strengthening partnerships, and demonstrating its role as a critical element in maintaining a ready and capable force to deter adversary actions to support a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Asian Impact 88: Climate Change Perceptions in Asia

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. It assists its members and partners by providing loans, technical assistance, grants, and equity investments to promote social and economic development.

    Headquarters

    6 ADB Avenue, Mandaluyong City 1550, Metro Manila, Philippines

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Statement attributable to the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General – on the passing of His Highness the Aga Khan IV

    Source: United Nations – English

    he Secretary-General expresses his profound sadness at the passing of His Highness the Aga Khan IV, a global spiritual leader, philanthropist, and advocate for peace, development, and pluralism. For decades, the Aga Khan dedicated his life to improving the quality of life for millions around the world, particularly in the most vulnerable communities, through his unwavering commitment to humanitarian work, education, and cultural preservation.

    The Aga Khan’s leadership extended beyond his role as the Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims. He was a bridge-builder between cultures and faiths, promoting mutual understanding and respect in an increasingly interconnected world. His efforts to address poverty, advance gender equality, and foster sustainable development have left an indelible mark on the global community.

    The United Nations recognizes the Aga Khan’s invaluable contributions to the advancement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and his partnership with the UN in addressing some of the world’s most pressing challenges. 

    The Secretary-General extends his deepest condolences to the Aga Khan’s family, the Ismaili community, and all those who were touched by his vision, compassion, and leadership.
     

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI China: Convenience stores see numbers surge

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    The convenience store sector in China recorded higher revenues and continued store number expansions in 2024, while making efforts to continue to optimize product category structures, according to an industry survey.

    The survey, the Development of Convenience Stores in 2024 — released on Jan 21 by the China Chain Store and Franchise Association — covered 60 convenience store chains nationwide, representing about 124,000 stores.

    Sales growth in the sector was seen by 70 percent of surveyed enterprises, versus 81.4 percent in 2023 and 64.1 percent in 2022.

    Expansion remained a key trend, with 80 percent of operators opening new locations last year. A total of 14,550 new stores were launched, with larger operators driving growth. Chains with over 1,000 stores accounted for 8,510 of the 9,570 net new stores, representing 89 percent of the total net increase.

    Profitability improved for some enterprises. Of 27 surveyed companies reporting profit growth in 2024, 85 percent saw year-on-year increases in total sales, while 56 percent recorded growth in comparable store sales. The report highlighted a strong correlation between sales, profits and daily sales at comparable stores, indicating that success in one area often boosted overall performance.

    Customer visit numbers were also critical to store success.

    Among companies with a year-on-year increase in visitors, 62 percent saw higher comparable store sales, and 86 percent reported total sales growth. In contrast, businesses with fewer visitors struggled, with 65 percent experiencing lower comparable store sales and 42 percent reporting a decline in total sales.

    While challenges persist, the sector continues to focus on optimizing product offerings and improving operating capabilities to drive long-term growth, said the report.

    Convenience store chains in China, including major names Meiyijia and Tianfu, are ramping up expansion efforts. Meiyijia, for instance, had grown its nationwide store count to 35,000 by April 2024, adding nearly 300 new stores per month on average.

    Hu Chuncai, founder of Shanghai UI Sharing Consulting, told 21st Century Business Herald that convenience stores primarily serve consumers’ immediate needs.

    To remain competitive, domestic players must focus on product differentiation and unique offerings.

    “Stores must give customers a reason to visit and make purchases,” Hu said.

    Hu added that long operating hours are key to their success. He noted that in northern regions, particularly during winter, foot traffic declines sharply as residents stay indoors for extended periods.

    “In the northeast, this can last for months, affecting both daytime and nighttime business. In such cases, extended store hours become crucial. Moreover, in sparsely populated northern areas, the customer base within a 500-meter to one-kilometer radius is often insufficient to sustain a store. In contrast, the same radius in southern cities can support two or three stores,” he said.

    While southern China has fostered more homegrown convenience store brands, many focus on specific regional markets, such as Tianfu in Guangdong province and Fook Convenience Store in Fujian province.

    The primary constraint behind this regional approach is supply chains. Companies achieve economies of scale by densely clustering stores, thus optimizing distribution efficiency, said Hu.

    However, expanding across regions requires rebuilding local supply chains, which means more costs, he added.

    Despite these challenges, Hu sees growth opportunities in lower-tier markets.

    “There is significant potential in county-level cities and towns, where consumer demand is evolving, and preferences are increasingly aligning with those in first and second-tier cities,” he said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Analysts see slower growth for 2025 gold market

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    China’s domestic gold production in 2024 exceeded 377.24 metric tons, up by 2.087 tons from 2023, reflecting a year-on-year increase of 0.56 percent, according to the latest data from the China Gold Association.

    However, gold consumption in the country dropped to 985.31 tons, down 9.58 percent compared to the previous year. Within this total, gold jewelry consumption fell by 24.69 percent to 532.02 tons, while demand for gold bars and coins rose by 24.54 percent to 373.13 tons. Industrial and other uses of gold saw a slight decline of 4.12 percent, totaling 80.16 tons, it said.

    Industry analysts believe China’s gold market is poised for slower growth this year amid global macroeconomic shifts, after its price experienced a record-breaking year and became the best-performing asset in the country.

    Domestic factors such as strong investment momentum — including sizable gold exchange-traded fund inflows and active futures trading — as well as gold’s global drivers, all contributed to the performance of Chinese gold prices, said the World Gold Council.

    The council believes that after hitting multiple record highs in 2024, gold is set for slower growth this year.

    China has been the world’s largest gold consumer for over 10 straight years. It has also been the world’s largest gold producer for an impressive 15 consecutive years.

    In 2024, despite a sluggish gold jewelry market, Chinese gold and jewelry companies adapted by adjusting their production strategies and promoting product innovation, with trends such as traditional and “Chinese style” gold jewelry gaining traction, said the association.

    Amid fluctuations in gold prices, the domestic gold market exhibited strong growth, with significant increases in both transaction volume and value, it said.

    In 2024, China’s large gold conglomerates achieved a total gold output of 71.937 tons from overseas mines, marking a year-on-year increase of 19.14 percent.

    According to Zhao Xiangbin, chief strategist at Beijing Gold and Forex Fortune Investment Management, China’s gold market will continue to be a key driver of global trends.

    The country’s gold market remains a barometer for broader economic sentiment, and its future performance will depend on both domestic policy and global macroeconomic developments, he said.

    The People’s Bank of China, the country’s central bank, added 44.17 tons to its gold reserves throughout 2024, bringing the total to 2,279.57 tons by year-end, solidifying its position as the world’s sixth-largest holder of gold reserves and marking a new historic high.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: More tweaks ahead for property policy

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Policy fine-tuning in real estate may be necessary in 2025 for China to more effectively address debt risks facing developers, a crucial link in ensuring a steady economic recovery and preventing systemic financial risks, economists and analysts said.

    Possible measures include launching a systematic policy plan that details the roadmap for risk disposal, supports debt restructuring of qualified real estate enterprises and optimizes housing delivery efforts, they said.

    “To resolve real estate market risks, it is necessary to gradually shift from simply safeguarding housing project deliveries to fully supporting qualified enterprises,” said Zhang Ming, deputy director of the Institute of Finance and Banking at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences.

    Zhang said a “one company, one policy” risk resolution approach is necessary as some real estate enterprises have faced difficulties in getting finance and transferring funds across projects and regions, hampering the sustainable development of the property market.

    For responsible, law-abiding developers, Zhang suggested taking a combination of measures to extend their debt maturities, reduce repayment obligations and enhance their capital via debt-to-equity swaps or new investments.

    For the tiny proportion of smaller developers involved in illegal operations, bankruptcy liquidation in line with legal regulations is needed, said Zhang.

    The Central Economic Work Conference in December decided to take the real estate sector as a crucial link in effectively preventing and defusing risks, calling for reversing the downturn of and stabilizing the property market.

    China Real Estate Information Corp (CRIC) said capital market debt maturities of Chinese property developers are projected to reach 525.7 billion yuan ($72.5 billion) in 2025, 8.9 percent up from 2024. CRIC predicts that the third quarter will be a peak of debt repayments with maturities worth about 157.4 billion yuan.

    Echoing Zhang’s views, a China Index Academy report suggested a systematic risk resolution plan for property developers, with efforts so far having primarily focused on safeguarding real estate projects.

    “A comprehensive plan aimed at addressing risks facing developers should be established, detailing methods, principles, supportive policy measures and coordination mechanisms for risk disposal.”

    To ensure that presold real estate projects have access to necessary funding, China introduced a real estate financing coordination mechanism last year.

    Via the mechanism, Chinese banks had approved 5.6 trillion yuan worth of loans to property projects as of Jan 22, financing the delivery of 14 million homes, the National Financial Regulatory Administration said.

    However, the total financing of 65 typical Chinese real estate enterprises in 2024 was 462.9 billion yuan, down 31 percent from 2023, according to CRIC.

    Shi Lulu, director of Asia-Pacific corporate ratings at Fitch Ratings, said higher debt maturities, weakening sales, declining margins and reduced cash generation may continue in 2025 for many Chinese homebuilders.

    The risk of sales failing to stabilize remains a key factor behind the negative ratings outlook or watch of some of Fitch’s rated Chinese homebuilder issuers, Shi said, though it is expected that the magnitude of negative rating actions will abate as State-owned developers have maintained access to the onshore bond market.

    “The most critical debt chain in the real estate sector lies between developers and homebuyers, rather than developers and banks or developers and foreign bond investors,” said Lu Ting, chief China economist at Nomura.

    Stressing the importance of rebuilding homebuyer confidence by ensuring that they will receive the homes they paid for, Lu said this does not always mean completing every building and requires active efforts by government departments.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Mobile payments enhance tourism

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    A consumer scans an Alipay QR code to pay for the order at a self-service restaurant in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province. [Photo/Xinhua]

    China’s convenient mobile payment services have bolstered tourism-related consumption and injected fresh momentum into the country’s economic recovery during the Spring Festival holiday, experts and industry insiders said.

    They added that an increasing number of overseas travelers have come to experience Chinese culture and opted for online payment tools following the implementation of expanded visa-free entry and transit policies, and the country’s enhanced efforts to facilitate payments for foreigners.

    Data from Alipay, the digital payment arm of Chinese financial technology company Ant Group, showed that spending made by inbound tourists on the platform surged 1.5 times from Jan 28 to Saturday, compared with the first five days of last year’s Spring Festival holiday.

    The number of Chinese merchants using Alipay for foreign visitors witnessed a 100 percent increase during the period, while the expenditure from some overseas tourists, who can enjoy visa-free policies when visiting China, nearly tripled via Alipay over the previous Spring Festival.

    Chinese cities with abundant intangible cultural heritage have been favored by foreign tourists. The top five cities that saw the highest expenditure from inbound travelers using Alipay for in-depth travel and consumption were Suzhou in Jiangsu province, Zhongshan, Foshan and Jiangmen in Guangdong province, and Xi’an in Shaanxi province.

    Hong Yong, an associate research fellow at the Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation, said, “China’s mobile payment options, such as Alipay and WeChat Pay, have greatly simplified the payment process, improved transaction efficiency and provided consumers with a more convenient payment experience.”

    Hong said the widespread use of digital payment methods and expanded visa-free policies have attracted a large number of inbound tourists, thus further propelling the development of the tourism industry, stimulating consumption demand — including catering, accommodation and transportation as well as injecting more vitality into the country’s economic growth.

    China has been working to make mobile payment processes more accessible to foreigners. The State Council, China’s Cabinet, published a guideline in March aimed at improving payment services and enhancing payment convenience, so as to better meet the diversified payment needs of the elderly and foreign visitors.

    Foreign travelers can now link their international bank cards such as Visa and Mastercard to mobile payment platforms like Alipay and WeChat Pay, greatly streamlining the payment processes. Alipay has also allowed foreigners to use their familiar e-wallets from their home country by scanning Alipay QR codes.

    Chinese financial services provider UnionPay International in December introduced enhanced payment services for foreign visitors to the Chinese mainland in collaboration with WeChat Pay.

    Travelers using any of eight overseas e-wallets, such as Bangkok Bank Mobile Banking and Naver Pay, which is frequently used in South Korea, can make payments on the Chinese mainland by scanning WeChat QR codes.

    Pan Helin, a member of the Expert Committee for Information and Communication Economy, which operates under the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, said innovative mobile payment tools have not only helped tackle payment difficulties faced by international travelers, but also boosted inbound tourism and the recovery of domestic consumption.

    A slew of convenient measures optimizing mobile payments for foreigners have demonstrated the country’s resolve to expand high-standard opening-up, said Wang Pengbo, a senior analyst at market consultancy Botong Analysys.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Anime meets tradition

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    Adorned with long white hair and a vibrant cosplay skirt, Miya (pseudonym), a 24-year-old from the Inner Mongolia autonomous region, joined thousands of anime fans and cosplayers at the first Beijing Animation Comic Carnival.

    The carnival, held from Jan 31 to Feb 2 at the Capital International Exhibition Center of China in Beijing, brought together cosplayers and anime enthusiasts to celebrate the Chinese New Year, blending traditional customs with a modern twist.

    Miya attended the event dressed as her favorite character, Firefly, from the strategic space adventure game Honkai: Star Rail, developed by Chinese game company miHoYo. Firefly is a warrior tasked with protecting her queen from a devastating insectoid threat.

    “Firefly’s dedication to safeguarding others really resonates with me,” Miya said. “She embodies courage and a love for life — qualities I want to hold in my own life.”

    Unlike other anime expos Miya had attended, which primarily showcased merchandise, the carnival featured snack stalls and interactive games inspired by Chinese New Year traditions, such as riddles and stamp-collecting challenges.

    “The carnival created such a strong sense of community,” Miya said. “When I danced with fellow fans, it felt like stepping into the anime world, surrounded by an exciting atmosphere. Sharing those moments with them made the New Year holiday feel even more special.”

    Some cosplayers chose to incorporate auspicious elements into their costumes to express good wishes for the New Year. One of them is Wyatt (pseudonym), a 24-year-old from Jiangxi province.

    For Wyatt, attending the carnival enriched his New Year celebrations by combining the charm of anime culture with traditional festivities.

    He cosplayed as Aventurine, also a character from Honkai: Star Rail, known for his wealth and good fortune. His costume featured motifs such as golden ingots, jade pendants, and auspicious cloud patterns — symbols of prosperity and good luck in Chinese culture.

    “Cosplaying as Aventurine isn’t just about paying homage to the character; it also represents my hopes for a blessed New Year,” Wyatt explained. “This fusion allows me to express my passion for anime culture in a meaningful way while fully immersing myself in the joyous, vibrant spirit of the Spring Festival.”

    Zhen Taiyue, 24, has been an anime fan since primary school. He noted that, beyond offline events like the carnival, anime enthusiasts have also brought the New Year celebrations online through various videos and music projects.

    One of them is the annual online event Bainianji (meaning “celebration of the Chinese New Year”), produced by the video-sharing platform Bilibili.

    The event showcases popular anime intellectual properties through videos, creating an online community where fans exchange New Year greetings via bullet comments.

    According to Zhen, these activities offer young audiences an innovative way to celebrate — not just with family, but through shared passions.

    “It’s a different kind of ‘family reunion’ — one that’s unique to young people, fostering a special sense of belonging,” he said.

    Beyond the festivities

    Liang Yuexi (pseudonym), born under the Chinese zodiac sign of the Snake, was a special guest at the carnival. She chose to spend her New Year holiday with her fans, dressed as Feng Baobao, a character from The Outcast, a Chinese metaphysical comic series first published in 2015.

    For Liang, cosplay is a path to freedom and authenticity. “In daily life, we often play roles out of obligation. Cosplay lets me temporarily escape and embrace a persona I truly admire,” she said.

    She explained that Feng Baobao’s simple, direct, and pure qualities resonate with her, making the portrayal feel natural.

    “True cosplay is about embodying a character’s spirit, not just copying their appearance. It’s a form of deep empathy and liberation,” she said.

    Liang took her love for cosplay a step further, turning it into a career. As an animation lecturer and cosplay-focused blogger, she believes comics have the power to ignite passion in young people.

    “By faithfully recreating beloved characters, cosplay can inspire those who feel lost to rediscover their courage,” Liang said. “As a performer, I find great satisfaction in seeing how my hobby can empower others.”

    Sa Laoshi (pseudonym) is also a special guest at the carnival. As a video blogger, he is dedicated to revitalizing the culture of Sanxingdui, an ancient archaeological site in Sichuan province, through cosplay.

    To date, Sa has handcrafted six costumes, each with a unique meaning and name, reimagining the divine essence of the ancient Shu civilization, which thrived more than 3,000 years ago.

    His creative work has earned him over 375,000 followers on Bilibili.

    For Sa, cosplay is a way to promote cultural exchange. One of his most memorable experiences was attending a comic exhibition for the first time two years ago, where he encountered a foreign photographer eager to take photos of his costume.

    “I noticed the photographer had been following me for a while, but I couldn’t speak English. He pointed at his camera, signaling that he wanted to take photos of me,” Sa recalled. “We hardly spoke, but I was thrilled that cosplay gave me the opportunity to introduce the beauty of Sanxingdui to friends around the world.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xizang boosts jobs, economy with key projects in 2024

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

    Southwest China’s Xizang Autonomous Region made significant progress in improving people’s well-being and boosting economic development in 2024. The region allocated 12.9 billion yuan ($1.76 billion) to fund 21 key livelihood projects, with a focus on employment, according to data released at the third session of the 12th People’s Congress of the Xizang Autonomous Region. Looking ahead to 2025, Xizang plans to expand its livelihood initiatives to 28 projects, covering employment, education, healthcare, social security and transitional living assistance for disaster-affected individuals.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Update on Police operation in Waterview

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    A Police operation in Waterview is continuing this afternoon.

    The area around Tutuki Street is currently cordoned off and contained.

    Police have been trying to engage with an occupant of an address on Tutuki Street.

    While the Police operation is still ongoing, there is currently no wider risk to the public.

    Further updates will be provided as available.

    ENDS.

    Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Lake Tuggeranong closed due to contamination

    Source: Government of Australia Capital Territory

    As part of ACT Government’s ‘One Government, One Voice’ program, we are transitioning this website across to our . You can access everything you need through this website while it’s happening.

    Released 05/02/2025

    Lake Tuggeranong is closed until further notice due to sewage and oil contamination. The cause of the contamination is currently being investigated.

    Action has been taken under section 22 of the Lakes Act 1976 (the Act) to close all areas of Lake Tuggeranong based on the advice from Health Protection Services (HPS).

    The lake is closed to all water activities pending water sample testing. The results of the tests will determine the next course of action.

    This includes primary and secondary activities such as swimming, windsurfing, rowing, fishing, boating and canoeing.

    Contact with water should be avoided and clothing that has been in the water should be washed immediately. Pet owners should not allow their animals to swim in or drink the water.

    Water users should look for signage which indicates the status of all waterways and lakes in the ACT. Warning signs are located at public access areas.

    For more information on lake closures, please visit www.cityservices.act.gov.au.

    – Statement ends –

    ACT Chief Minister and Treasury Directorate | Media Releases

    «ACT Government Media Releases | «Directorate Media Releases

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Funding to improve the transitioning and rehoming of animals used in research

    Source: New South Wales Department of Primary Industries

    5 Feb 2025

    Three NSW based animal welfare organisations will share in $2.45 million to fund the rehoming of animals following their contribution to important scientific research projects.

    The Minns Labor Government’s Research Animals Rehoming Grant Program supports organisations to find forever homes for cats, dogs, guinea pigs and other animals after they have completed their involvement in research.

    With this investment and a suite of initiatives, including the recent passing of the Puppy Farm Bill introducing mandatory regulation of dog breeders, the Government is delivering on its commitment to modernise and strengthen the state’s animal welfare environment.

    The animal rehoming organisations to receive funding are:

    • Animal Welfare League (AWL) – $825,000
      The AWL will continue its re-homing pilot program including building a wing at its site for dogs and cats from research establishments to transition them and then find new homes post-retirement.
    • Blacktown Animal Rehoming Centre – $800,000
      The centre plans to build a “real life room” at their current facility. The room will simulate a home environment to allow animals previously used in research to undertake rehabilitation and help them move on to the next phase of their lives.
    • Liberty Foundation Australia – $825,000
      Liberty Foundation will scale up its rehoming work with small animals such as guinea pigs, rabbits, rats and mice, including new education and volunteer programs to raise awareness and encourage more people to adopt an animal from research.

    The Rehoming Grant Program funding is part of a broader $7 million investment to enhance positive welfare outcomes for animals, both during and after use in research, including identifying alternatives to replace animals in research.

    The vast bulk of cats and dogs used in research are either part of programs designed to taste test new pet foods or as part of animal medicine test programs run through vet clinics with the approval of the animal’s owner.

    Minister for Agriculture and Western NSW, Tara Moriarty said:

    “The Minns Labor Government is committed to improving the welfare outcomes of all animals and in this case that of research animals.

    “This $2.45 million in funding will make a real and proven difference and is dedicated to improving animal welfare outcomes by supporting specialist organisations to successfully rehome research animals.

    “Effective rehoming requires education and a coordinated, cooperative approach, and that is why the NSW Government is supporting this by working with research, rehoming and animal welfare organisations to achieve the best outcome for research animals when they retire.”

    NSW CEO Animal Welfare League Stephen Albin said:

    “AWL NSW is pleased to be one of the recipients of funding from this important program, it will assist us rehome the animals that come into our care, regardless of their origins.

    “Our commitment involves enhancing each animal’s socialisation skills by understanding their past, respecting their individual needs, and providing a safe and protected sanctuary here at our Kemps Creek Shelter.

    “We offer every animal, including those from research, high-quality veterinary care, behavioural improvements, including walking animals four times daily, nutritional enhancement and careful matching with potential owners.

    “Our unique ‘Hope to Love’ journey allows for prolonged stays demonstrating our dedication to animal welfare.”

    Paula Wallace, Director Liberty Foundation Australia said:

    “Liberty Foundation is delighted to be awarded funding as part of this unique grant program, which will help us provide a lifeline for animals moving from research establishments into the community.

    “We know that small animals coming out of research settings can transition well into people’s homes as pets and companions and this funding means we can provide this opportunity to more animals.

    “This funding comes at a crucial time, when more research establishments than ever before are wanting to work with us to provide the best possible outcomes for animals after their time in research.

    “Funding like this is vital for small charities like Liberty Foundation to give us the helping hand we need to scale up our activities and share the wonderful message of rehoming with more people.”

    Brad Bunting Mayor of Blacktown City said:

    “This NSW Government grant will further support Blacktown City Council’s vision to help animals transition to happy, comfortable lives while changing community perceptions around rehoming pets.

    “The ‘real life room’ at the Blacktown Animal Rehoming Centre (BARC) is a practical step toward easing the transition of retired research animals back into the real world, giving them the chance to live happy and comfortable lives.

    “BARC is a state-of-the-art facility built to give animals the best chance at finding loving permanent homes. Designed with world-leading research, it sets a new standard for animal welfare, creating a welcoming space where pets in need and families searching for their perfect companion can come together.

    MEDIA: Michael Salmon | Minister Moriarty | 0417 495 018

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN attends the 21st Meeting of High-Level Task Force on ASEAN Community’s Post-2025 Vision (HLTF-ACV)

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today attended the 21st High-Level Task Force on the ASEAN Community’s Post 2025 Vision (HLTF-AVC), co-chaired by Malaysia and the Philippines, in Manila, the Philippines. The HLTF-ACV discussed the draft Kuala Lumpur Declaration to adopt the ASEAN Community Vision 2045 and the Strategic Plans of the three Community Pillars and ASEAN Connectivity, as well as the way forward, with the view to ensuring that the draft ASEAN Community Vision 2045 and its Strategic Plans are adopted during the 46th ASEAN Summit in Malaysia later this year.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN attends the 21st Meeting of High-Level Task Force on ASEAN Community’s Post-2025 Vision (HLTF-ACV) appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo, Risch, Daines Lead Bill to Defend Firearm Businesses and the Second Amendment

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo

    Washington, D.C.–U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Jim Risch (R-Idaho) and Steve Daines (R-Montana) introduced the Firearm Industry Non-Discrimination (FIND) Act to prohibit the federal government from entering into contracts with groups that discriminate unfairly against firearm associations or businesses.

    “Taxpayer dollars should not support businesses that unfairly target law-abiding citizens exercising their Second Amendment rights. Full stop,” said Crapo.

    “We cannot allow businesses with anti-Second Amendment policies and rhetoric to benefit from taxpayer-funded government contracts,” said Risch.  “The FIND Act ensures the federal government doesn’t line the pockets of businesses working against Idahoans’ right to keep and bear arms.”

    “Democrats and woke corporations have proven over and over again that they want to carry out an unconstitutional, overreaching gun-grabbing agenda, and under no circumstances should our federal government use taxpayer dollars for these efforts.  Doing business with anti-Second Amendment corporations erodes Americans’ trust and infringes on law-abiding citizens’ Constitutional rights. It must stop,” said Daines.

    The legislation was co-sponsored by Senators Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Mississippi), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyoming), Rick Scott (R-Florida), Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas), Roger Marshall (R-Kansas), Roger Wicker (R-Mississippi), Ted Budd (R-North Carolina), Bill Cassidy (R-Louisiana), Tim Sheehy (R-Montana), Pete Ricketts (R-Nebraska), Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota), Deb Fischer (R-Nebraska), James Lankford (R-Oklahoma), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Eric Schmitt (R-Missouri), Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) and Katie Britt (R-Alabama).

    ?

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo Statement on Meeting With CMS Administrator Nominee

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo
    Published: February 04, 2025

    Washington, D.C.–U.S. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) released the following statement after meeting with Dr. Mehmet Oz, President Trump’s nominee to be Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator:
    “I had a constructive meeting with Dr. Oz, where we discussed his approach to health care policy and vision for CMS.  I value his advocacy for consumer choice and his commitment to expanding Americans’ access to affordable, high-quality health care.  I look forward to considering his nomination before the Finance Committee.”

    Save image here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo Statement on Pam Bondi Confirmation

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo

    Washington, D.C.–U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) issued the following statement after the Senate confirmed, by a vote of 54-46, Pam Bondi to be the United States Attorney General at the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ):

    “Under the previous Administration, the DOJ weaponized the justice system against the Left’s perceived political enemies.  Notably, it targeted pro-life individuals and President Donald Trump in frivolous, politically-motivated lawsuits.  Pam Bondi has promised to return our federal law enforcement to its rightful job of prosecuting crimes and carrying out justice without regard to political identity.  She will restore order to an agency facing significant bureaucratic backlogs and she will uphold the rule of law.  I congratulate Attorney General Bondi on her confirmation.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murphy At Treasury: The Senate Should Not Vote For A Single Nominee That Will Participate In This Fraud

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy

    February 04, 2025

    [embedded content]

    WASHINGTON— U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee, on Tuesday joined Democratic members of Congress outside the U.S. Treasury Department to call out Elon Musk’s alleged illegal takeover of the Treasury’s payment systems. Murphy blasted Musk for conspiring with Donald Trump and his billionaire cronies to hijack the federal government for the ultra-rich—putting Social Security, tax refunds, and other essential programs millions of Americans depend on at risk.

    A full transcript of his remarks can be found below:

    MURPHY: “So it feels like the people of America have woken up. We are wide awake to the fraud that is being perpetuated on this country inside this building, and we are not going to stand for it. And I don’t know about you, but I think the United States Senate shouldn’t vote for a single nominee that’s going to participate in this fraud. 

    “When we open up the Senate every single morning, we don’t pledge allegiance to the billionaires. We don’t pledge allegiance to Elon Musk. We don’t pledge allegiance to the creepy twenty-two-year-olds working for Elon Musk. We pledge allegiance to the United States of America. I want to make sure that my mother gets her Social Security check, not because she pledges allegiance to Elon, but because she pledges allegiance to the United States of America. I want to make sure your neighbor gets their tax refund, not because they pledge allegiance to the billionaire class, but because they pledge allegiance to the United States of America. 

    “And so we have work to do right now. Every single one of us has a responsibility to stand up to this fraud. And it is true, we have to reach out to everyone in this country –conservatives, liberals, Republicans, Democrats – and tell them that we have not months, we have not weeks, but we have days to stop the destruction of our democracy. We have work to do. 

    “And so we will fight. We will fight with you to make sure that in this country, it is the people that rule. It is the people that rule, not the billionaires. We are taking back this country from Elon Musk. Thank you, everybody.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murphy, Blumenthal, 35 Colleagues Raise Alarm Over Trump Administration Chaos At Critical National Security Agencies

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy

    February 04, 2025

    WASHINGTON–U.S Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) joined 35 of their Senate colleagues in sending a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressing their deep concern regarding the growing chaos and dysfunction at the U.S. Department of State and the Trump Administration’s illegal attempt to destroy the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). USAID is a critical pillar of U.S. national security strategy, providing lifesaving aid and development support around the world to help ensure stability.
    Yesterday, personnel at USAID were not permitted to enter the agency’s headquarters, and Elon Musk announced that President Donald Trump agreed to close the agency and move it under the State Department – which Trump has no legal authority to do. The Trump Administration, led by Musk, has also furloughed thousands of senior career civil servants, including two top security officials who denied Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency access to classified documents and systems.
    “…We are deeply concerned by reports of not only growing chaos and dysfunction at the Department of State, but the Administration’s brazen and illegal attempts to destroy the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). Mass personnel furloughs of dubious legality and abrupt, blanket stop-work orders without regard to relevant appropriations laws are causing immediate harm to U.S. national security, placing U.S. citizens at risk, disrupting life-saving work and breaking the U.S. government’s contractual obligations to private sector partners,” the senators wrote.
    The senators continued, “The Administration’s failure to consult with Congress prior to taking these steps violates the law and impedes Congress’s constitutional duty to conduct oversight of funding, personnel and the nation’s foreign policy. The Administration’s failure to expend funds appropriated on a bipartisan basis by Congress would violate the Impoundment Control Act.”
    “Foreign assistance is critical to supporting U.S. strategic interests around the world. Foreign assistance protects U.S. national security, advances U.S. values, and ensures the U.S. is the partner of choice for everything from defense procurement to cutting edge scientific research. China, Russia and Iran are already moving rapidly to exploit the vacuum and instability left by the U.S.’s sudden global retreat,” the senators added.
    They continued, “Every Administration has the right to review and adjust ongoing assistance programming. However, attempting to arbitrarily turn off core functions of a critical U.S. national security agency, without Congressional consideration or any metric-based review and absent legal authority to do so, is unprecedented and deeply disturbing.”
    U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Andy Kim (D-N.J.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Angus S. King (I-Maine), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Mazie K. Hirono (D-Hawaii), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Mark R. Warner (D-Va.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), and Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.) also signed the letters.
    Full text of the letter is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: NSU scientists create a database of samples from the Scientific and Educational Center “Evolution of the Earth” on the CoGIS platform

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –

    Employees Scientific and educational center “Evolution of the Earth” Faculty of Geology and Geophysics, Novosibirsk State University are creating a database that will combine information about all samples located in open exhibits and storage facilities. The result of this work should be the creation of a website for all those interested in geology and mineralogy. Third-party visitors will be able to see exhibits of the Evolution of the Earth Scientific and Educational Center here, and professional geologists and NSU employees will be able to obtain information about samples from the faculty’s closed storage facilities. Work on creating the database and the website is being carried out with the support of the program “Priority 2030”The software product is being created by the Novosibirsk IT company Data East, which employs graduates of the Faculty of Geology and Geophysics of NSU.

    — The domestic geoinformation platform CoGIS allows specialists to create websites from ready-made modules without resorting to the services of programmers. They design the database themselves, create object cards and thus document museum exhibits. Each object contains a description and multimedia information — photos, videos, presentations. The interface is so simple that it can be easily mastered by both a scientist and a schoolchild. We expect that the CoGIS platform for the Scientific and Educational Center “Evolution of the Earth” and for the university as a whole will become a universal environment for storing and processing scientific and practical information, useful for student term papers and diploma papers, industrial practices, as well as for the implementation of research programs of the university, — said Mikhail Zadorozhny, GIS specialist at Data East.

    — At the moment, the database is only being created and functions only for internal use. We have digitized all the samples exhibited in the expositions of the Scientific and Educational Center “Evolution of the Earth” — both inside its premises and in display cases located in the adjacent corridors. The samples that are in the faculty’s storage facilities have also been partially digitized. To date, the database contains information on more than three thousand samples. About the same number has been digitized, but has not yet been entered into the database. To do this, we, together with specialists from Data East, have created sample cards, in each of which we place an image of a mineral or rock and a number of its geological characteristics: name, chemical composition, weight, size, date of receipt in the storage of the Scientific and Educational Center “Evolution of the Earth”, place and date of extraction, name of the extractor. Of course, not every sample is provided with a full list of this data — often some characteristics are unknown to us. Not all samples are provided with a photo image — only the exposition ones and the most impressive in appearance. The rest will be accompanied only by descriptions at the first stage, said Olga Khokhryakova, a research fellow at the Evolution of the Earth Scientific and Educational Center.

    The database compilers still have a lot of work ahead of them. Many of the specimens that require detailed descriptions and photographs are under glass, so the database contains incomplete data and “rough” photographs. The specimens from the Alexander Godovikov collection, located in the passage next to the exhibition halls of the Scientific and Educational Center “Evolution of the Earth”, have full descriptions. The remaining specimens, which are stored packed in boxes, will not be accompanied by photographs for now.

    — The storage facilities of the Geological and Geophysical Faculty contain thousands of undescribed samples brought back from student practices and expeditions in the 1980s and 1990s. Before the creation of the Scientific and Educational Center “Evolution of the Earth” in the new building, there was an educational museum at the Geological and Geophysical Faculty (it was located in the laboratory building), and now its samples make up a significant part of the faculty’s collection. All the exhibits placed in display cases had descriptions and labels. In the new building, the collection was replenished with new samples. We also enter them into our database. But a considerable part of the minerals and rocks still remain unsorted. The samples are in boxes wrapped in old newspapers from the Soviet era. Now we sort them out, describe the contents and put them on the balance sheet. The most spectacular samples have been selected for placement in museum display cases or in educational collections intended for classrooms, — said Olga Khokhryakova.

    In addition, the staff of the Scientific and Educational Center “Evolution of the Earth” work with unaccounted samples brought from geological practices and trips of the members of the student mineralogical society “Crystal”. For several decades, these samples were stored in the laboratory building of NSU, and now they have been transported to the storage facilities of the Scientific and Educational Center “Evolution of the Earth”. Some parcels with samples have not yet been unpacked. The most interesting and beautiful samples were previously selected and placed in display cases of the museum of the SMO “Crystal”, the rest did not have time to be sorted out. Now NSU geologists have taken up this work, dividing the samples into several categories. They combine samples, for example, by place of discovery, chemical composition or area of application. The volume of the collection to be sorted out is calculated not in the number of boxes, but in cubic meters. At the moment, there are 10 of them.

    — We classify, systematize, arrange all the samples that come to us by storage location and enter them into the database, which allows us to quickly and easily find them in the storage facility when there is a need to form exhibitions, replenish educational collections or present them as illustrations on the Internet. We understand that a methodical description of all the samples will probably take a decade, so we decided to take a different approach: first, we select those samples that are interesting to us from an exhibition or educational point of view, and work with them. We will move on to less interesting samples later. We fill the database gradually, as we describe the samples, — Olga Khokhryakova explained.

    According to the plan of the staff of the Scientific and Educational Center “Evolution of the Earth”, the database they are creating will not only be used internally. Access to the database is via the Internet, adding and viewing information occurs within the framework of the geoportal, which presents the mineralogical and paleontological expositions of the Scientific and Educational Center “Evolution of the Earth”. Different levels of access – for employees who can edit data, and for visitors who will visit the site to admire photographs of sparkling crystals and multi-colored stones, and at the same time learn interesting facts about them – are configured using CoGIS. Visitors to the geoportal will be able to familiarize themselves with the contents of the exhibition showcases of the Scientific and Educational Center “Evolution of the Earth” and with each exhibit presented on them separately. It is assumed that NSU employees and students will be able to see more information than all other visitors. For example, they will be able to get acquainted with archival and educational collections.

    — Our website, thanks to its impressive design and beautiful photo illustrations, will attract the attention of schoolchildren and teachers. Having learned about us, teachers will be able to contact the Scientific and Educational Center “Evolution of the Earth” with a request for educational mineralogical collections, which would present, for example, minerals and rocks that are often found in our region, or samples necessary for mastering the curricula in geography and chemistry. Our employees form school collections at the request of teachers. One of them was transferred to Novosibirsk School No. 112 in November last year, — said Olga Khokhryakova.

    The website, which contains a database of mineralogical and paleontological samples, is expected to become available to a wider audience later this year.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Govt’s lack of a plan shows in soaring unemployment stats

    Source: Green Party

    The latest labour market figures confirm unemployment has risen to levels not seen since the height of the Covid-19 pandemic.

    “This Government lacks a plan for creating jobs, its only plan is entrenching poverty for our poorest communities,” says the Green Party’s Social Development spokesperson Ricardo Menéndez March.

    “Our country has the means to build an economy that works for everyone and leaves nobody behind. We can invest in the public services and infrastructure which support our communities into meaningful jobs and livelihoods.

    “The latest stats lay bare the poverty trap this Government is setting for our communities. Cutting thousands of jobs and undermining support for people doing it tough is setting our communities up to fail.

    “There are not enough jobs – this is by design. We can’t use austerity to condemn people into deeper poverty due to hard times

    “The Government has introduced new benefit sanctions while they push more people into unemployment, knowing full well there aren’t enough jobs for every single person on the benefit, and will never be while it’s in power.

    “Where is the workforce planning desperately needed for our country, with its many challenges including the huge infrastructure deficit and meeting the needs of an ageing population? Nowhere to be seen under this coalition for the rich.

    “We have a plan for a Future Workforce Agency to strategically upskill New Zealanders and coordinate industrial planning.

    “The Greens would end poverty with a Guaranteed Minimum Income, more training opportunities, and restarting public investment in healthcare, schools, and building housing that creates good jobs. Our jobs for nature plan will also be a central plank for providing people with meaningful and stable work.

    “The Government needs to boost benefits and abolish sanctions, so that the increasing number of unemployed New Zealanders aren’t left to languish in poverty, and aren’t punished for struggling to find work in National’s barren economy,” says Ricardo Menéndez March.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Public Works Act overhaul fails to protect Māori land

    Source: Green Party

    The Government’s so-called overhaul of the Public Works Act will fail to prevent further injustices around the confiscation of Māori land.

    “Now is the time for this Government to be brave and ensure not one more acre of Māori land is stolen by the Crown,” says Green Party Māori Development spokesperson Hūhana Lyndon.

    “The Government is failing to address what remains a source of great injustice for Māori – that’s why I’m calling on all political parties to support my bill to protect Maori land from confiscation under the Public Works Act.

    “Māori have already lost a significant amount of land and that includes for public purposes. But the plans for the overhaul of the Act give Māori no ability to say no to the state taking their land for public works.

    “Adding the Minister of Māori Development into the hierarchy controlling approvals for compulsory acquisition of whenua gives no comfort to Māori. We’ve already seen with Fast-Track, having multiple ministers signing off on things is hardly a protection for whenua or te taiao.

    “What’s more, the inadequate compensation package announced by the Minister is a bitter pill for Māori who have already lost so much. 

    “The Government’s neglect of Māori concerns is an insult to injury compounded by the Prime Minister’s absence at Waitangi this week.

    “Don’t think for one second that the confiscation of land is just a memory of the Land Wars and their legacy – it’s something still confronting us in the present.

    “The Waitangi Tribunal found that the Crown must actively protect Māori interests, and this is what my Bill seeks to do, by protecting the small amount of Māori land left from compulsory acquisition – thus giving primacy to Article Two of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

    “The Green Party’s Hoki Whenua Mai commitment would prevent whenua Māori being taken in future, and provide a clearer path for the return of land previously taken.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Serious crash, Hawke’s Bay Expressway, Napier

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Motorists are advised to expect delays at Greenmeadows, near Napier, after a serious crash on the Hawke’s Bay Expressway.

    Emergency services were called to the collision, involving a car and motorbike, about 3.50pm. It happened in the southbound lane, between Kennedy Road on-ramp and Meeanee Road off-ramp.

    One person is understood to have critical injuries.

    Motorists are advised to expect delays.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Road blocked, SH1, Tamahere

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    State Highway One/Waikato Expressway is blocked following a single vehicle crash this afternoon.

    Police were alerted to the crash before the Tamahere Road off-ramp at around 4pm.

    There are no reports of injuries at this stage.

    The southbound lane is blocked and motorists are advised to avoid the area if possible.

    ENDS

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Money Market Operations as on February 04, 2025

    Source: Reserve Bank of India
    (Amount in ₹ crore, Rate in Per cent)
      Volume
    (One Leg)    		 Weighted
    Average Rate    		 Range
    A. Overnight Segment (I+II+III+IV) 5,70,710.87 6.32 0.01-6.80
         I. Call Money 17,135.14 6.50 5.10-6.65
         II. Triparty Repo 3,90,143.40 6.27 6.10-6.48
         III. Market Repo 1,61,386.03 6.42 0.01-6.70
         IV. Repo in Corporate Bond 2,046.30 6.73 6.70-6.80
    B. Term Segment      
         I. Notice Money** 234.45 6.28 6.05-6.61
         II. Term Money@@ 101.00 – 6.50-6.80
         III. Triparty Repo 1,530.65 6.39 6.25-6.40
         IV. Market Repo 485.07 6.70 6.55-6.75
         V. Repo in Corporate Bond 0.00 – –
      Auction Date Tenor (Days) Maturity Date Amount Current Rate /
    Cut off Rate
    C. Liquidity Adjustment Facility (LAF), Marginal Standing Facility (MSF) & Standing Deposit Facility (SDF)
    I. Today’s Operations
    1. Fixed Rate          
    2. Variable Rate&          
      (I) Main Operation          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (II) Fine Tuning Operations          
         (a) Repo Tue, 04/02/2025 1 Wed, 05/02/2025 25,001.00 6.51
         (b) Reverse Repo          
    3. MSF# Tue, 04/02/2025 1 Wed, 05/02/2025 378.00 6.75
    4. SDFΔ# Tue, 04/02/2025 1 Wed, 05/02/2025 1,58,816.00 6.25
    5. Net liquidity injected from today’s operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*       -1,33,437.00  
    II. Outstanding Operations
    1. Fixed Rate          
    2. Variable Rate&          
      (I) Main Operation          
         (a) Repo Fri, 24/01/2025 14 Fri, 07/02/2025 1,62,096.00 6.51
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (II) Fine Tuning Operations          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
    3. MSF#          
    4. SDFΔ#          
    D. Standing Liquidity Facility (SLF) Availed from RBI$       9,556.71  
    E. Net liquidity injected from outstanding operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*     1,71,652.71  
    F. Net liquidity injected (outstanding including today’s operations) [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*     38,215.71  
    G. Cash Reserves Position of Scheduled Commercial Banks
         (i) Cash balances with RBI as on February 04, 2025 8,84,724.53  
         (ii) Average daily cash reserve requirement for the fortnight ending February 07, 2025 9,12,544.00  
    H. Government of India Surplus Cash Balance Reckoned for Auction as on¥ February 04, 2025 25,001.00  
    I. Net durable liquidity [surplus (+)/deficit (-)] as on January 10, 2025 -40,102.00  
    @ Based on Reserve Bank of India (RBI) / Clearing Corporation of India Limited (CCIL).
    – Not Applicable / No Transaction.
    ** Relates to uncollateralized transactions of 2 to 14 days tenor.
    @@ Relates to uncollateralized transactions of 15 days to one year tenor.
    $ Includes refinance facilities extended by RBI.
    & As per the Press Release No. 2019-2020/1900 dated February 06, 2020.
    Δ As per the Press Release No. 2022-2023/41 dated April 08, 2022.
    * Net liquidity is calculated as Repo+MSF+SLF-Reverse Repo-SDF.
    ¥ As per the Press Release No. 2014-2015/1971 dated March 19, 2015.
    # As per the Press Release No. 2023-2024/1548 dated December 27, 2023.
    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    
    Press Release: 2024-2025/2076

    MIL OSI Economics –