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  • MIL-OSI Africa: DRC has created a reserve force to fight the M23 – why this may backfire

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Judith Verweijen, Assistant professor, Utrecht University

    After nearly three decades of warfare, armed conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) seems only to intensify. The Rwanda-backed M23 rebellion has been at the centre of attention in recent years. However, eastern DRC is home to more than 100 other armed groups, which are a major source of instability too. The question of their demobilisation has haunted the country ever since the end of the Second Congo War in 2003.

    A new chapter in this long-standing conundrum seems to have started. In 2022, the government decided to form an alliance with armed groups to fight their common enemy, the M23 and its Rwandan backers. At around the same time, it launched an initiative to create an army reserve, known as the Reserve armée de la défense (RAD). This formalised the Congolese army’s established practice of using armed groups as auxiliaries.

    The creation of the reserve army allows the government to reward armed group allies with integration while bringing them under institutionalised control. But will this actually work?

    Our past and ongoing research on army integration and demobilisation in eastern DRC casts doubt on the plan, for three reasons.

    The first risk is that armed groups will boost their numbers to gain a stronger bargaining position once integration does occur.

    Secondly, reservist forces may compete with the army over territorial control and limited resources and turn against those who created them.

    Finally, merely absorbing armed groups into a reserve force does little to address the long-standing grievances that underlie conflict in the east.

    The Wazalendo: eastern DRC’s predatory patriots

    On 9 May 2022, in a secretive meeting in the town of Pinga in North Kivu, the Congolese armed forces and several Congolese armed groups agreed to cease hostilities against each other and instead form an alliance to fight their common enemy, the M23.

    As a result, these groups became quasi-official and increasingly presented themselves as defenders of Congo’s territorial integrity. They started to call themselves Wazalendo or patriots in Kiswahili. Fuelled by President Félix Tshisekedi’s supportive rhetoric, the Wazalendo became symbols of Congolese resistance against foreign aggression. This benefited the president’s 2023 electoral campaign.

    Across North and South Kivu provinces, armed groups have rebranded themselves Wazalendo, even when not part of the coalition fighting the M23.

    As the Congolese army’s attention is on the M23, these armed groups have benefited from the lull in operations against them. Most Wazalendo groups are allowed to roam around freely and have dramatically expanded their zones of influence and violent systems of revenue generation.

    This includes taxation at markets and rapidly proliferating roadblocks, but also ransom kidnappings and contract killings. There is also evidence that Wazalendo groups are engaged in torture, sexual violence and arbitrary arrests, and frequently recruit child soldiers.

    Chequered history of integration

    A few months after the Pinga meeting, Congo’s government launched a new national defence policy that mentioned the establishment of the reserve army. Though it was passed unanimously in parliament in April 2023, MPs voiced concerns that the new army reserve risked repeating mistakes of the past.

    The army is itself the product of the painstaking integration of former belligerents after the Second Congo War (1998-2003). But rebel-military integration became an open-ended process. Armed group officers alternately integrated into and deserted from the army in the hope of gaining higher ranks and positions in a next round of integration.

    Unending rebel integration also weakened the national army. It reinforced parallel command chains, facilitated intelligence leaks and created a lopsided hierarchy.

    The first iteration of the M23 rebellion in 2012 was the result of rebel integration gone wrong. In its aftermath, the Congolese government banned the wholesale negotiated integration of armed groups into the army.

    Hurdles to integration

    The reserve army risks unleashing the same dynamics of rewarding rebellion by doling out positions to armed group leaders and granting them impunity for past violence. In April 2024, the leaders of many Wazalendo groups were flown to Kinshasa where the army reserve leadership told them to start preparing lists of their combatants ahead of their integration.

    This has prompted numerous armed groups to step up recruitment.

    The prospect of integration has also triggered fierce competition for positions between Wazalendo commanders. This risks worsening animosities between groups.

    Other hurdles, some of which have been faced before, include:

    Unity of command. Forcing smaller armed groups into a hierarchical mould doesn’t always work. Most have deep local roots, with their recruitment and influence limited to a relatively small area. Used to calling the shots in their home areas, these commanders tend to be reluctant to take orders from higher-placed outsiders.

    Ethnic competition. Armed groups may resist full integration if they feel their rank and positions in the reserve army will be lower and that this will hamper their ability to protect members of their ethnic community. Such “local security dilemmas” have obstructed army integration and demobilisation efforts in the past.

    Resources. Armed groups currently enjoy substantial income, and considerable freedom in obtaining it. Will the reserve army command allow its members to engage in illegal taxation, kidnapping for ransom, robbery and ambushes? If not, how will it compensate for their lost opportunities? In addition, the reserve army is likely to compete with the army over revenue-generating opportunities. And some of its members may leak intelligence to fellow armed groups.

    Painkiller or cure?

    The army reserve may be read as the latest attempt at solving the decades-old problem of getting rid of the many armed groups in eastern DRC, this time by bringing them into the fold of the state yet not into the army.

    However, this solution does risk unleashing many of the same detrimental dynamics as army integration. It may fuel armed mobilisation and militarisation rather than contain it.

    Wazalendo groups are currently in a comfortable position and there are no repercussions for not integrating the reserve force. To contain them, both the DRC’s army and the military justice system would need to be professionalised.

    Even if the reserve army did not have negative ripple effects, it would be an unlikely cure for armed mobilisation. That requires comprehensive, bottom-up peace efforts that tackle deep-seated grievances related to past violence and conflict over belonging, territory and local authority. Barring such efforts, the reserve force will remain a painkiller at best.

    – DRC has created a reserve force to fight the M23 – why this may backfire
    – https://theconversation.com/drc-has-created-a-reserve-force-to-fight-the-m23-why-this-may-backfire-247476

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Global: DRC has created a reserve force to fight the M23 – why this may backfire

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Judith Verweijen, Assistant professor, Utrecht University

    After nearly three decades of warfare, armed conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) seems only to intensify. The Rwanda-backed M23 rebellion has been at the centre of attention in recent years. However, eastern DRC is home to more than 100 other armed groups, which are a major source of instability too. The question of their demobilisation has haunted the country ever since the end of the Second Congo War in 2003.

    A new chapter in this long-standing conundrum seems to have started. In 2022, the government decided to form an alliance with armed groups to fight their common enemy, the M23 and its Rwandan backers. At around the same time, it launched an initiative to create an army reserve, known as the Reserve armée de la défense (RAD). This formalised the Congolese army’s established practice of using armed groups as auxiliaries.

    The creation of the reserve army allows the government to reward armed group allies with integration while bringing them under institutionalised control. But will this actually work?

    Our past and ongoing research on army integration and demobilisation in eastern DRC casts doubt on the plan, for three reasons.

    The first risk is that armed groups will boost their numbers to gain a stronger bargaining position once integration does occur.

    Secondly, reservist forces may compete with the army over territorial control and limited resources and turn against those who created them.

    Finally, merely absorbing armed groups into a reserve force does little to address the long-standing grievances that underlie conflict in the east.

    The Wazalendo: eastern DRC’s predatory patriots

    On 9 May 2022, in a secretive meeting in the town of Pinga in North Kivu, the Congolese armed forces and several Congolese armed groups agreed to cease hostilities against each other and instead form an alliance to fight their common enemy, the M23.

    As a result, these groups became quasi-official and increasingly presented themselves as defenders of Congo’s territorial integrity. They started to call themselves Wazalendo or patriots in Kiswahili. Fuelled by President Félix Tshisekedi’s supportive rhetoric, the Wazalendo became symbols of Congolese resistance against foreign aggression. This benefited the president’s 2023 electoral campaign.

    Across North and South Kivu provinces, armed groups have rebranded themselves Wazalendo, even when not part of the coalition fighting the M23.

    As the Congolese army’s attention is on the M23, these armed groups have benefited from the lull in operations against them. Most Wazalendo groups are allowed to roam around freely and have dramatically expanded their zones of influence and violent systems of revenue generation.

    This includes taxation at markets and rapidly proliferating roadblocks, but also ransom kidnappings and contract killings. There is also evidence that Wazalendo groups are engaged in torture, sexual violence and arbitrary arrests, and frequently recruit child soldiers.

    Chequered history of integration

    A few months after the Pinga meeting, Congo’s government launched a new national defence policy that mentioned the establishment of the reserve army. Though it was passed unanimously in parliament in April 2023, MPs voiced concerns that the new army reserve risked repeating mistakes of the past.

    The army is itself the product of the painstaking integration of former belligerents after the Second Congo War (1998-2003). But rebel-military integration became an open-ended process. Armed group officers alternately integrated into and deserted from the army in the hope of gaining higher ranks and positions in a next round of integration.

    Unending rebel integration also weakened the national army. It reinforced parallel command chains, facilitated intelligence leaks and created a lopsided hierarchy.

    The first iteration of the M23 rebellion in 2012 was the result of rebel integration gone wrong. In its aftermath, the Congolese government banned the wholesale negotiated integration of armed groups into the army.

    Hurdles to integration

    The reserve army risks unleashing the same dynamics of rewarding rebellion by doling out positions to armed group leaders and granting them impunity for past violence. In April 2024, the leaders of many Wazalendo groups were flown to Kinshasa where the army reserve leadership told them to start preparing lists of their combatants ahead of their integration.

    This has prompted numerous armed groups to step up recruitment.

    The prospect of integration has also triggered fierce competition for positions between Wazalendo commanders. This risks worsening animosities between groups.

    Other hurdles, some of which have been faced before, include:

    Unity of command. Forcing smaller armed groups into a hierarchical mould doesn’t always work. Most have deep local roots, with their recruitment and influence limited to a relatively small area. Used to calling the shots in their home areas, these commanders tend to be reluctant to take orders from higher-placed outsiders.

    Ethnic competition. Armed groups may resist full integration if they feel their rank and positions in the reserve army will be lower and that this will hamper their ability to protect members of their ethnic community. Such “local security dilemmas” have obstructed army integration and demobilisation efforts in the past.

    Resources. Armed groups currently enjoy substantial income, and considerable freedom in obtaining it. Will the reserve army command allow its members to engage in illegal taxation, kidnapping for ransom, robbery and ambushes? If not, how will it compensate for their lost opportunities? In addition, the reserve army is likely to compete with the army over revenue-generating opportunities. And some of its members may leak intelligence to fellow armed groups.

    Painkiller or cure?

    The army reserve may be read as the latest attempt at solving the decades-old problem of getting rid of the many armed groups in eastern DRC, this time by bringing them into the fold of the state yet not into the army.

    However, this solution does risk unleashing many of the same detrimental dynamics as army integration. It may fuel armed mobilisation and militarisation rather than contain it.

    Wazalendo groups are currently in a comfortable position and there are no repercussions for not integrating the reserve force. To contain them, both the DRC’s army and the military justice system would need to be professionalised.

    Even if the reserve army did not have negative ripple effects, it would be an unlikely cure for armed mobilisation. That requires comprehensive, bottom-up peace efforts that tackle deep-seated grievances related to past violence and conflict over belonging, territory and local authority. Barring such efforts, the reserve force will remain a painkiller at best.

    Michel Thill is a Senior Program Officer for swisspeace, a Basel University affiliated practice and research institute dedicated to advancing effective peacebuilding. swisspeace receives funding from research funding bodies, and bilateral and multilateral organizations. Michel is also a Fellow of the Rift Valley Institute.

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

    – ref. DRC has created a reserve force to fight the M23 – why this may backfire – https://theconversation.com/drc-has-created-a-reserve-force-to-fight-the-m23-why-this-may-backfire-247476

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: Three deposit auctions of the PPC “TERRITORIAL DEVELOPMENT FUND” will take place on 27.01.2025

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

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

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

    https://www.moex.com/n77141

    Category24-7, MIL-AXIS, Moscow, Moskov Stotsk Exchange, Russians savings, Russians Federal, Russians Language, Russian economy

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    Archives

    Archives Privations of the Police Proudly would trust WordPress

    Date of the deposit auction 01/27/2025
    Placement currency RUB
    Maximum amount of funds placed (in placement currency) 5,523,000,000.00
    Placement period, days 22
    Date of deposit 01/27/2025
    Refund date 02/18/2025
    Minimum placement interest rate, % per annum 21.00
    Conditions of imprisonment, urgent or special Urgent
    Minimum amount of funds placed for one application (in placement currency) 5,523,000,000.00
    Maximum number of applications from one Participant, pcs. 1
    Auction form, open or closed Open
    Basis of the Treaty General Agreement
     
    Schedule (Moscow time)
    Preliminary applications from 11:30 to 11:40
    Applications in competition mode from 11:40 to 11:45
    Setting a cut-off percentage or declaring the auction invalid until 11:55
       
    Additional terms  

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The government has additionally indexed insurance pensions for working and non-working pensioners

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The decision was made on the instructions of the President.

    The Prime Minister signed a resolution on an additional increase in insurance pensions for working and non-working pensioners to the level of actual inflation for 2024.

    Document

    Resolution of January 23, 2025 No. 34

    According to the document, the amount of the fixed payment to the insurance pension and the cost of one pension coefficient have been additionally increased from January 1, 2025. In February, pensioners will receive an increased pension for February and an additional payment for January.

    The decision will increase the level of pension provision for all recipients of insurance pensions. This is about 39.3 million people.

    Initially, from January 1, 2025, insurance pensions were increased by 7.3% in accordance with the forecast inflation rate in 2024. In mid-January, Rosstat provided data on the actual inflation rate in 2024. After that, a decision was made to further index insurance pensions to the actual inflation rate.

    Mikhail Mishustin instructed Deputy Prime Minister Tatyana Golikova to monitor the implementation of the additional indexation of insurance pensions at a meeting with deputy prime ministers on January 27.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Welcome to GUU: Open Day brought together future students

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    On January 26, hundreds of applicants and parents came to the Open Day of the State University of Management.

    In total, more than 1,600 participants registered, half of whom came to the university to see everything with their own eyes.

    The meeting was opened by the Vice-Rector of the State University of Management, Dmitry Bryukhanov, who spoke about the key advantages of the university in all areas.

    “We are glad to see the first management university of the country on the site. In 2024, GUU celebrated its 105th anniversary. We rightfully bear the title of the first management university, because back in the USSR, we opened the first department for training managers. It was our scientists who wrote the first textbook on management science. Today, almost all basic areas of education are available at our university. As well as MBA programs, postgraduate studies, additional professional education, etc. Moreover, GUU implements the Presidential Program for the Training of Management Personnel and conducts foreign internships for its graduates,” said Dmitry Yuryevich.

    The head of the department for organizing the admission of applicants, Vadim Dikikh, announced changes in the university admission system in 2025/2026.

    “The admission rules change every year. Digitalization affects both our daily lives and all universities. Today, admission is a complex process that includes a number of steps using State Services. Therefore, you need to approach the process thoughtfully, understand and decide whether you plan to apply for a targeted or general competition, whether you have benefits or not, which areas of training, which Unified State Exams to take or which Olympiad you can take part in “tomorrow”. Most of the information can be obtained online, but if you have doubts or questions, the admissions committee staff will always help and point you in the right direction,” Vadim Dikikh advised.

    The guests were introduced to student life and extracurricular activities by the Vice-Rector of the State University of Management Pavel Pavlovsky, who noted only the main areas and opportunities, because our university has truly countless of them: KVN, “Service Learning”, university shifts, thematic summer camps in the All-Russian Children’s Center “Ocean” and Artek, dozens of federal competitions and projects in which everyone can find opportunities for self-realization.

    Also, as part of the official part, a representative of Sberbank spoke …, introducing future applicants and their parents to a preferential loan from Sberbank, available to applicants to the First Management. And the director of the Center for Professional Orientation Elena Likhatskikh told about how to earn additional points.

    Throughout the day, guests of the university were given tours of the GUU campus, consultations on admission issues, career guidance for schoolchildren, pre-university training and the infrastructure of the alma mater. Also, everyone could take part in a show match against the CS2 team, visit the Playstation zone or experience the possibilities of games in VR helmets.

    More photos from the Open Day can be seen in the album.

    Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 01/27/2025

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Deputy Plenipotentiary Representative of the President in the Central Federal District Artur Niyazmetov visited the State University of Management

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    On January 21, the Deputy Plenipotentiary Representative of the President of the Russian Federation in the Central Federal District, Artur Niyazmetov, visited the State University of Management.

    The meeting with the guest was attended by the rector of the State University of Management Vladimir Stroyev, vice-rectors Maria Karelina, Dmitry Bryukhanov and Vitaly Lapshenkov, as well as the head of the department of external and internal communications Tatyana Sharapova.

    The conversation began with a discussion of the Vykhino district and the uniqueness of the territory of the State University of Management.

    “We are the only university in Moscow whose campus is located on a single closed territory. On 15 hectares there is an academic building, which is connected by passages that allow you to get to any point without leaving the building, a sports complex, an information technology center, a stadium, a swimming pool. Residents of the area come to us to do sports. The area has changed a lot in recent years: modern buildings are being built under the renovation program, new metro stations and high-speed highways are opening. And the contingent, accordingly, is becoming different,” Vladimir Vitalyevich noted.

    An important topic of discussion was targeted training and preparation for the 2025 admission campaign. The meeting participants paid special attention to the analysis of the results of the 2024/2025 campaign, which was held according to the new rules of targeted training. It should be noted that this year has become an important stage for determining further directions for the development of the system.

    “The new rules for admission to targeted training in the 2024/2025 admission campaign were in effect for the first time. Based on its results, we made certain conclusions and made adjustments. It has been several years since we have been talking about the need to plan and recruit for training differently so that there are no distortions. The system is still being worked out,” shared Artur Niyazmetov.

    Dmitry Bryukhanov said that more than 90% of first-year students complete their studies and receive a diploma, and this is a fairly high figure. This year, the number of applicants from the capital has increased, which is possibly due to the university opening entrepreneurship classes in Moscow schools.

    After the meeting, the delegation went on a tour of the university. Artur Niyazmetov visited the Pre-University of the State University of Management, the sports complex, the Information Technology Center, which houses the Boiling Point of the State University of Management and eSports classes, as well as the Center for Innovative Technologies.

    The rector personally showed the guest how to use the Jaling studio, and the media center staff demonstrated the capabilities of recording videos and examples of finished works from different rooms of the media center.

    The Student Design Bureau and its developments were of particular interest. Vladimir Filatov, Director of the Engineering Project Management Center, spoke about ongoing projects in mechanical engineering, reverse engineering, and unmanned systems. Postgraduate student Vladimir Kutkov presented a project for the production of small-sized drones intended for use in anti-drone systems. The guest was very interested in the topic, asked questions, and clarified details.

    “It’s good that the guys are working in the design bureau with pleasure and understanding, and most importantly, there are practical results. A good idea,” concluded Artur Niyazmetov.

    At the end of the meeting, those gathered visited the meeting room of the Academic Council of the State University of Management and discussed plans for the development of the university’s dissertation councils.

    Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 01/27/2025

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi lauds China’s solid progress despite challenges in Year of Dragon

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday noted solid progress the country has made in advancing Chinese modernization amid “complex and challenging” situations over the past twelve months at a high-level reception to ring in the Chinese New Year.
    “In the Year of the Dragon, we demonstrated vitality and a can-do spirit. We endured storms and saw the rainbow,” said Xi, who is also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission.
    Faced with complex and challenging situations, China responded with composure and implemented a range of comprehensive measures, overcame difficulties and forged ahead with determination, Xi said at the reception held by the CPC Central Committee and the State Council to usher in the Year of the Snake, which begins on Jan. 29.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s overall economic output continues to expand

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    An aerial drone photo taken on Jan. 15, 2025 shows the cruise ship Adora Flora City under construction at Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. in Shanghai, east China. [Photo/Xinhua]

    China’s overall economic output continued to expand in January, reflecting a steady recovery momentum, according to official data.

    In January, China’s composite purchasing managers’ index (PMI) stood at 50.1, according to data released Monday by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).

    The PMI for China’s manufacturing sector came in at 49.1, down from 50.1 in December. NBS statistician Zhao Qinghe said that the manufacturing PMI data in January were influenced by factors such as the approaching Spring Festival holiday and enterprise employees’ returning home for festival reunions.

    The Chinese New Year, or the Spring Festival, falls on Jan. 29 this year. It is the most important holiday on the Chinese calendar and an occasion for family reunions.

    The NBS data showed that the sub-indices of production and new orders came in at 49.8 and 49.2, respectively.

    The PMI for the equipment manufacturing sector remained above 50 for a sixth straight month, with its January reading at 50.2, according to the NBS.

    A reading above 50 indicates expansion, while a reading below 50 reflects contraction.

    The PMI for China’s non-manufacturing sector came in at 50.2 in January, down from 52.2 in December, official data showed Monday.

    The service sector continued to expand, with its sub-index standing at 50.3 in January, according to the NBS.

    Driven by the effects of the Spring Festival, business activity indices in sectors related to residents’ travel and consumption, including road transportation, accommodation, catering, ecological protection, and public facility management, have risen into the expansion zone, showing strengthened market activities.

    Meanwhile, business activity indices in sectors such as air transport, postal services, telecommunications, radio, television, satellite transmission services, and monetary and financial services remained above the 55-mark, indicating a robust growth in overall business volume.

    The expectation index for manufacturing production and business activity reached 55.3, while that for non-manufacturing business activity stood at 56.7, both within a relatively high range of prosperity. This suggests that most enterprises remain confident in market development following the holiday, according to Zhao.

    NBS data also showed that the combined profit of major industrial enterprises in China surpassed 7.43 trillion yuan (about $1.04 trillion) in 2024, while large enterprises in the cultural industry generated a combined profit of about 1.29 trillion yuan last year.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s industrial profits top 7.43 trillion yuan in 2024

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    The combined profit of major industrial enterprises in China exceeded 7.43 trillion yuan (about $1.04 trillion) in 2024, down 3.3 percent year on year, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) said on Monday.

    The data showed that in December last year, profits went up 11 percent year on year.

    NBS statistician Yu Weining attributed the improvement to the implementation of incremental measures. Industrial profits in December rebounded significantly from a 7.3 percent decrease in November, and the decline in corporate earnings in the fourth quarter eased markedly from the third quarter of last year.

    High-tech manufacturing became an important growth driver in 2024, with profits growing 4.5 percent from 2023. In particular, Yu said that high-end, intelligent and green manufacturing recorded faster profit growth.

    The equipment manufacturing sector continued to be the cornerstone last year, with five of its eight industries posting year-on-year increases in profits, according to Yu.

    In addition, last year’s profits in the consumer goods manufacturing sector improved by 3.4 percent year on year thanks to supportive policy measures to promote consumption, Yu said.

    Moving forward, Yu called for continued efforts to expand domestic demand, boost the formation of new quality productive forces, and promote the recovery of industrial profits. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong Customs detects case of illegally importing animals in third phase of “Pet Guardian” operation (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Hong Kong Customs detects case of illegally importing animals in third phase of “Pet Guardian” operation (with photos)
    Hong Kong Customs detects case of illegally importing animals in third phase of “Pet Guardian” operation (with photos)
    ******************************************************************************************

         Hong Kong Customs mounted an operation against smuggling of animals codenamed “Pet Guardian” with the Anti-Smuggling Bureau of Shenzhen Customs since November 2023. In late January this year, Hong Kong Customs launched the third phase of the operation and detected one suspected case of illegally importing animals on January 22. Four suspected illegally imported animals with an estimated market value of about $120,000 were seized.     On that day, Hong Kong Customs at Sha Tau Kok spotted a woman pushing a bike, who entered Hong Kong through the Chung Ying Street Checkpoint from the Mainland side of Chung Ying Street. The front basket of her bike carried two handbags suspected of containing animals. Customs officers then took action and found four suspected illegally imported animals, including one kitten and three puppies, inside the handbags. The 32-year-old woman was subsequently arrested.     Investigations of the case is ongoing and the four animals have been handed over to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department for follow-up action.     Being a government department specifically responsible for tackling smuggling, Customs has long been combating various smuggling activities on all fronts. Customs will keep up its enforcement action and continue to resolutely combat all types of smuggling activities through proactive risk management and intelligence-based enforcement strategies, and carry out targeted anti-smuggling operations at suitable times to disrupt relevant crimes.     Customs reminds the public that importing animals into Hong Kong without a valid permit is an offence.     Under the Rabies Regulation, any person found guilty of illegally importing animals, carcasses or animal products is liable to a maximum fine of $50,000 and imprisonment for one year.

     
    Ends/Monday, January 27, 2025Issued at HKT 15:37

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Periodic announcement on the acquisition of the Bank‘s own shares and its results (week 12)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    This announcement contains information on transactions of the acquisition of own shares of AB Šiaulių bankas (the Bank) carried during the period specified below under the Bank’s own share buy-back programme announced on 31 October 2024. 

    The period during which the acquisition of the Bank’s own shares under the programme was carried out – 04.11.2024 – 24.01.2025. 

    Period covered by this periodic report – 20.01.2025 – 24.01.2025. 

    Other information: 

    Transaction overview 
    Date  Total number of shares purchased on the day ( units)  Weighted average price (EUR)  Total value of transactions (EUR) 
    2025.01.20 125,000 0.914 114,229.88
    2025.01.21 125,000 0.914 114,187.70
    2025.01.22 125,000 0.915 114,329.92
    2025.01.23 125,000 0.914 114,250.00
    2025.01.24 125,000 0.913 114,080.01
    Total acquired during the current week  625,000 0.914 571,077.51
    Total acquired during the programme period  5,092,863 0.853 4,345,207.01
           
     

    The Bank’s own bought-back shares: 11,717,863 units.  

    Following the above transactions, the Bank will own a total of 12,342,863 units of own shares representing 1.86 % of the Bank’s issued shares. 

    Further detailed information on the transactions is attached. 

    This information is also available at: www.sb.lt   

    Additional information:
    Tomas Varenbergas
    Head of Investment Management Division
    tomas.varenbergas@sb.lt

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Winvest Group (WNLV) Strategically Enters GameFi and SocialFi: Redefining Decentralized Entertainment and Social Interaction

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    RENO, NV, Jan. 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Winvest Group Limited (OTC: WNLV), an innovative leader in the entertainment and investment industry, has officially entered the blockchain financing space and is aggressively optimizing and upgrading the future of contents, film, gaming, and social interactions in a unique, yet in-demand way. This strategic move reflects the company’s mission to integrate advanced technologies into its core business, creating a decentralized ecosystem that bridges the gap between traditional audiences and digital asset enthusiasts.

    As part of its disruptive strategy, Winvest Group announced a partnership with WMM to develop a virtual platform called “Joyous Island,” which is scheduled to launch in 2025. “Joyous Island” combines the innovations of GameFi and SocialFi to provide users with a unique interactive experience with the ‘I Ching’ element, which symbolizes cultural depth. Users can participate in daily activities, pledge assets and interact with the integrated NFT ecosystem through game passes. The platform not only caters to the needs of the digital gaming community, but also opens up new paths for traditional market participants to connect to digital assets, offering the possibility of diversified approaches to passivization.

    In addition to Joyous Island, Winvest Group’s strategic vision extends to the entire entertainment sector, exploring the in-depth application of blockchain technology. In the future, the company plans to use blockchain to empower every stage of film production, from pre-production to post-distribution, promoting transparency and efficiency. In addition, Winvest is committed to establishing broader partnerships with Web3 and blockchain technology companies to unlock new revenue growth points in the movie industry through innovative entertainment models such as NFT-driven pre-sales and digital merchandise trading.

    This expansion comes at a time when decentralized finance and digital entertainment are experiencing explosive growth. According to a new market research report by For Insights Consultancy, the GameFi market is expected to exceed $50 billion by 2030, a statistic that further validates the market potential of platforms such as Joyous Island. While the rise of the SocialFi space is accelerating as users demand transparent, decentralized, and monetized platforms, Winvest Group’s strategic development not only allows it to stay on top of industry trends, but also provides new value experiences for both traditional investors and digital pioneers.

    With its innovative approach, Winvest Group is not only embracing blockchain technology, but also paving the way for a new era of entertainment and investing. As the company continues to expand its presence in GameFi and SocialFi, it remains committed to empowering creators and audiences, fostering meaningful connections, and redefining the entertainment industry.

    About Winvest Group

    Winvest Group Limited (OTC QB: WNLV) is an innovative U.S.-based company dedicated to driving innovation at the intersection of media, entertainment and technology. By leveraging blockchain and Web3 technologies, Winvest aims to build sustainable decentralized solutions that drive growth in the digital economy.

    Media Contact

    Company: Winvest Group Limited

    Contact: Fiona Ng

    Telephone: 775-996-0288

    Email: fiona.ng@winxglobal.com

    Website: http://www.winvestgroup.co

    Address: 50 West Liberty Street, Suite 880, Reno NV 89501

    SOURCE: Winvest Group Limited

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Šiaulių Bankas AB own shares acquisition programme completed

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    24 January 2025 Šiaulių Bankas AB (the Bank) has completed its own share buy-back programme on the regulated market, which was carried out from 4 November 2024. During this period, the Bank acquired 5,092,863 treasury shares, i.e. 74 % of the maximum number of shares within the limit set at the time of the programme’s expiry, for a total amount of EUR 4,345,207.01 million, at an average price of EUR 0.853 per share.

    “We are the first bank in the Baltic market to implement an open market buy-back programme for its own shares. The successful implementation of this programme has increased the Bank’s attractiveness to investors by increasing the liquidity of its shares on the stock exchange and the return to shareholders. In the long term, we plan to continue to optimise and efficiently manage the Bank’s capital in order to increase shareholder value. We will continue to use a variety of financial instruments, including buy-backs”, says Tomas Varenbergas, Board Member, Head of Investment Management Division of Šiaulių Bankas.

    On 15 August 2024, the Bank received authorisation from the European Central Bank (ECB) to buy back up to 13,745,114 of its own shares. The Bank has already purchased 11,092,863 treasury shares on the basis of this authorisation. The remaining unused limit amounts to 2,652,251 shares. The Bank will make efforts to use the remaining share buy-back to the full limits before the expiry of the authorisation period, i.e. by 15 August this year, taking into account the Bank’s market value and other circumstances.

    The Bank will inform about further buy-backs of its own shares in a separate announcement once the Management Board of the Bank will take a decision. This will be done no earlier than after the publication of the 2024 results and the drafting resolutions by the Management Board of the Bank for the Ordinary General Meeting of Shareholders of Šiaulių Bankas to be held on 31 March 2025.

    Additional information:
    Tomas Varenbergas
    Head of Investment Management Division
    tomas.varenbergas@sb.lt

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: DRC creates a reserve force to fight the M23 – why this may backfire

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Judith Verweijen, Assistant professor, Utrecht University

    After nearly three decades of warfare, armed conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) seems only to intensify. The Rwanda-backed M23 rebellion has been at the centre of attention in recent years. However, eastern DRC is home to more than 100 other armed groups, which are a major source of instability too. The question of their demobilisation has haunted the country ever since the end of the Second Congo War in 2003.

    A new chapter in this long-standing conundrum seems to have started. In 2022, the government decided to form an alliance with armed groups to fight their common enemy, the M23 and its Rwandan backers. At around the same time, it launched an initiative to create an army reserve, known as the Reserve armée de la défense (RAD). This formalised the Congolese army’s established practice of using armed groups as auxiliaries.

    The creation of the reserve army allows the government to reward armed group allies with integration while bringing them under institutionalised control. But will this actually work?

    Our past and ongoing research on army integration and demobilisation in eastern DRC casts doubt on the plan, for three reasons.

    The first risk is that armed groups will boost their numbers to gain a stronger bargaining position once integration does occur.

    Secondly, reservist forces may compete with the army over territorial control and limited resources and turn against those who created them.

    Finally, merely absorbing armed groups into a reserve force does little to address the long-standing grievances that underlie conflict in the east.

    The Wazalendo: eastern DRC’s predatory patriots

    On 9 May 2022, in a secretive meeting in the town of Pinga in North Kivu, the Congolese armed forces and several Congolese armed groups agreed to cease hostilities against each other and instead form an alliance to fight their common enemy, the M23.

    As a result, these groups became quasi-official and increasingly presented themselves as defenders of Congo’s territorial integrity. They started to call themselves Wazalendo or patriots in Kiswahili. Fuelled by President Félix Tshisekedi’s supportive rhetoric, the Wazalendo became symbols of Congolese resistance against foreign aggression. This benefited the president’s 2023 electoral campaign.

    Across North and South Kivu provinces, armed groups have rebranded themselves Wazalendo, even when not part of the coalition fighting the M23.

    As the Congolese army’s attention is on the M23, these armed groups have benefited from the lull in operations against them. Most Wazalendo groups are allowed to roam around freely and have dramatically expanded their zones of influence and violent systems of revenue generation.

    This includes taxation at markets and rapidly proliferating roadblocks, but also ransom kidnappings and contract killings. There is also evidence that Wazalendo groups are engaged in torture, sexual violence and arbitrary arrests, and frequently recruit child soldiers.

    Chequered history of integration

    A few months after the Pinga meeting, Congo’s government launched a new national defence policy that mentioned the establishment of the reserve army. Though it was passed unanimously in parliament in April 2023, MPs voiced concerns that the new army reserve risked repeating mistakes of the past.

    The army is itself the product of the painstaking integration of former belligerents after the Second Congo War (1998-2003). But rebel-military integration became an open-ended process. Armed group officers alternately integrated into and deserted from the army in the hope of gaining higher ranks and positions in a next round of integration.

    Unending rebel integration also weakened the national army. It reinforced parallel command chains, facilitated intelligence leaks and created a lopsided hierarchy.

    The first iteration of the M23 rebellion in 2012 was the result of rebel integration gone wrong. In its aftermath, the Congolese government banned the wholesale negotiated integration of armed groups into the army.

    Hurdles to integration

    The reserve army risks unleashing the same dynamics of rewarding rebellion by doling out positions to armed group leaders and granting them impunity for past violence. In April 2024, the leaders of many Wazalendo groups were flown to Kinshasa where the army reserve leadership told them to start preparing lists of their combatants ahead of their integration.

    This has prompted numerous armed groups to step up recruitment.

    The prospect of integration has also triggered fierce competition for positions between Wazalendo commanders. This risks worsening animosities between groups.

    Other hurdles, some of which have been faced before, include:

    Unity of command. Forcing smaller armed groups into a hierarchical mould doesn’t always work. Most have deep local roots, with their recruitment and influence limited to a relatively small area. Used to calling the shots in their home areas, these commanders tend to be reluctant to take orders from higher-placed outsiders.

    Ethnic competition. Armed groups may resist full integration if they feel their rank and positions in the reserve army will be lower and that this will hamper their ability to protect members of their ethnic community. Such “local security dilemmas” have obstructed army integration and demobilisation efforts in the past.

    Resources. Armed groups currently enjoy substantial income, and considerable freedom in obtaining it. Will the reserve army command allow its members to engage in illegal taxation, kidnapping for ransom, robbery and ambushes? If not, how will it compensate for their lost opportunities? In addition, the reserve army is likely to compete with the army over revenue-generating opportunities. And some of its members may leak intelligence to fellow armed groups.

    Painkiller or cure?

    The army reserve may be read as the latest attempt at solving the decades-old problem of getting rid of the many armed groups in eastern DRC, this time by bringing them into the fold of the state yet not into the army.

    However, this solution does risk unleashing many of the same detrimental dynamics as army integration. It may fuel armed mobilisation and militarisation rather than contain it.

    Wazalendo groups are currently in a comfortable position and there are no repercussions for not integrating the reserve force. To contain them, both the DRC’s army and the military justice system would need to be professionalised.

    Even if the reserve army did not have negative ripple effects, it would be an unlikely cure for armed mobilisation. That requires comprehensive, bottom-up peace efforts that tackle deep-seated grievances related to past violence and conflict over belonging, territory and local authority. Barring such efforts, the reserve force will remain a painkiller at best.

    – DRC creates a reserve force to fight the M23 – why this may backfire
    – https://theconversation.com/drc-creates-a-reserve-force-to-fight-the-m23-why-this-may-backfire-247476

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: NSU student from Indonesia took 3rd place in regional vocal competition among universities

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –

    Raden Ankling Kesumo, or as he is called at Novosibirsk State University, Ray, is a second-year student Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, NSUAt the Univervision contest, he performed Sergey Lazarev’s song “Give Up”, as well as a composition by the Italian group Maneskin Coralline. With his talent, he was able to win the hearts of the jury.

    Before reaching the final stage of the competition, each university selected its talents to send them to participate in the regional competition “Univervision”. Ray was the only one who got into the competition from NSU with 18 more soloists and 13 groups from other universities. On December 5, the semi-final of the competition took place, where Mitya Fomin was present as a star guest and judge. According to the terms of the competition, the participants had to perform a song in Russian. Ray chose the composition “Sdaivaysya” by Sergey Lazarev. With it, our student reached the final of “Univervision”.

    — According to the rules, in the final we had to sing a song from a film or any foreign song that had to be translated into Russian. I was so happy and nervous at the same time, as it was my first time in my life performing as a solo vocalist in a regional competition. I realized my ability to feel a song, so I chose one that had a deep meaning, emotions, elements of splitting the voice and the ability to take high notes. Therefore, the song of the group Måneskin Coraline was the best option, we decided to translate it. Alena Matveeva, my girlfriend, helped me with the translation of the lyrics, Stepan Morozov, my best friend, helped with editing the lyrics, and Karina Kuznetsova was very supportive and helped me with the use of vocal techniques. I do not forget about other friends, my family from the NSU Music Club, as well as the support of the staff of the NSU Department of Youth Policy and Educational Work, who always gave me the opportunity to demonstrate my skills and supported me morally, — said Ray.

    The final of the competition was held in the Mayakovsky Concert Hall on Student’s Day, January 25. The “Univervision – 2025” competition was the fifth and anniversary one in the Novosibirsk Region. The jury in the final included a star guest – Oleg Vlady, composer, author of songs for popular artists, member of the jury of the vocal television show “Nu-ka, Vse Vmeste!”

    — When I first went on stage, I realized that I just wanted to convey the feelings of the song to the listener with my voice. When the music started, the anxiety went away. It was quite challenging, as I had to sing a difficult song in Russian. I knew that the other soloists had magical voices, spoke Russian really well, and some of them graduated from music college or were trained by a vocal coach, while I was learning to sing on my own. When it was time to announce the preliminary results, I was shocked to find out that I was in 4th place. Then the jury was given time to give an additional maximum score (12 points) to the participants they liked the most. In the end, several jury members voted for me and awarded me 3rd place! I was so happy, but a little upset that the Univervision jury did not determine the winners separately among solo vocalists and vocal groups. The 1st and 2nd winners were full-fledged musical groups. In any case, I feel happy, that’s what matters! It was one of the best impressions I’ve had, – Ray shared his impressions.

    In the final of the competition, Ray was the only foreign participant from far abroad. He received the highest score from one of the experts and one of the educational organizations, so Raden confidently took the honorable 3rd place in the competition.

    — My plans for the future include focusing primarily on my studies, because we know that studying at the medical faculty is very difficult, especially at NSU. But I will still continue to perform with my group “Tikhiy Ogonyok” at NSU events, the Music Club and other organizations. Next year, I will definitely not give up and will make every effort to win other vocal competitions!

    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 Asia-Pac: Crowd safety management measures and special traffic arrangements for Che Kung Festival

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Police will implement crowd safety management measures and special traffic arrangements to facilitate worshippers visiting Che Kung Temple in Sha Tin during the Che Kung Festival period.

    Crowd safety management measures
    ——————————–

         A large crowd is anticipated to visit Che Kung Temple and Che Kung Festival Fair during the Lunar New Year period. Depending on the crowd conditions, one-way pedestrian flow may be implemented at MTR Tai Wai Station and in the vicinity of Che Kung Temple, including Che Kung Miu Road and Chui Tin Street, between 11pm on January 28 and 8pm on Feberuary 2 to ensure public order and safety. Members of the public are urged to observe order and be patient while waiting in a queue.

    Special traffic arrangements
    —————————-

    A. Road closure

         The following roads will be closed from 8pm on January 28 to 8pm on February 2:

    – The slow lane of westbound Che Kung Miu Road between Sha Tin Tau Road and Chui Tin Street;
    – The right-turn lane of westbound Che Kung Miu Road between Chui
    Tin Street and near Che Kung Temple;
    – The slow lane of northbound Chui Tin Street between Che Kung Miu
    Road and the entrance of Sun Chui Estate near Sun Fong House; and
    – The slow lane of southbound Chui Tin Street between Che Kung Miu
    Road and the entrance of Sun Chui Estate near Sun Fong House.

    B. Traffic diversions

         The following traffic diversions will be implemented from 8pm on January 28 to 8pm on February 2:

    – Traffic along westbound Che Kung Miu Road cannot turn left to Chui Tin Street;
    – Traffic along westbound Che Kung Miu Road cannot turn right to the private road of The Wai;
    – Traffic along southbound Chui Tin Street cannot turn left to the road leading to the public car park at Chui Tin Street near Che Kung Temple;
    – Traffic along northbound Chui Tin Street cannot turn right to the road leading to the public car park at Chui Tin Street near Che Kung Temple;
    – Traffic along southbound Chui Tin Street cannot turn right to the entrance of Sun Chui Estate near Sun Fong House;
    – Traffic along northbound Chui Tin Street cannot go straight to the private road of The Wai;
    – Traffic along westbound Che Kung Miu Road heading for southbound Chui Tin Street and the private road of The Wai will be diverted via westbound Che Kung Miu Road, roundabout and eastbound Che Kung Miu Road;
    – Traffic along southbound Chui Tin Street heading for the entrance of Sun Chui Estate near Sun Fong House will be diverted via southbound Chui Tin Street, westbound Chui Tin Street, roundabout, eastbound Chui Tin Street and northbound Chui Tin Street; and
    – Traffic along northbound Chui Tin Street heading for the private
    road of The Wai will be diverted via westbound Che Kung Miu Road, roundabout and eastbound Che Kung Miu Road.

    C. Cycle track closure

         The following cycle tracks will be closed from 8pm on January 28 to 8pm on February 2:

    – The cycle track along Tsuen Lam Road between Tai Wai Road and the western riverside of Shing Mun River Channel;
    – The cycle track along the western riverside of Shing Mun River
    Channel between Tai Wai Soccer Pitch and Che Kung Miu Road;
    – The cycle track along the eastern riverside of Shing Mun River
    Channel between Tai Wai Soccer Pitch and Man Lai Court;
    – The cycle track connecting the eastern and western riverside of Shing Mun River Channel near Block 1 of Man Lai Court;
    – The cycle tracks along both sides of Che Kung Miu Road between
    Chui Tin Street and Sha Tin Tau Road;
    – The cycle track inside the subway system at the junction between Che Kung Miu Road and Chui Tin Street;
    – The cycle track inside the subway system at the junction between Che Kung Miu Road and Sha Tin Tau Road;
    – The cycle track along southern kerbside lane of Che Kung Miu Road between Chui Tin Street and Island School Tai Wai; and
    – The cycle tracks along both sides of Chui Tin Street between Che Kung Miu Road and the unnamed road leading to public car park near Che Kung Temple.

         During the cycle track closure period, cyclists may use the cycle track along the northern riverside of Shing Mun River Channel between Lion Rock Tunnel Road and Shing Wan Road commuting to and from Sha Tin.

    D. Suspension of car parks

         The public car park at Chui Tin Street near Che Kung Temple will be suspended from 6am on January 28 to 8pm on February 2, and from 7am to 6pm daily on February 8, 9, 15 and 16, except for vehicles with permit.

         The public car park at Chui Tin Street near Greenview Garden will be suspended from 6am on January 28 to 8pm on February 2, except for vehicles with permit.

         Members of the public are advised to make use of public transport to visit Che Kung Temple and Che Kung Festival Fair.

         During the implementation of the special traffic arrangements, any vehicles found illegally parked within the precincts mentioned above will be towed away without prior warning, and may be subject to multiple ticketing.

         Police will implement the above arrangements subject to traffic and crowd conditions in the area. Members of the public are advised to exercise tolerance and patience and take heed of instructions of the Police on site.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Import of poultry meat and products from Goleniów District of Zachodniopomorskie Region in Poland suspended

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Import of poultry meat and products from Goleniów District of Zachodniopomorskie Region in Poland suspended
    Import of poultry meat and products from Goleniów District of Zachodniopomorskie Region in Poland suspended
    ******************************************************************************************

         The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (January 27) that in view of a notification from the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) about an outbreak of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza in Goleniów District of Zachodniopomorskie Region in Poland, the CFS has instructed the trade to suspend the import of poultry meat and products (including poultry eggs) from the area with immediate effect to protect public health in Hong Kong.     A CFS spokesman said that according to the Census and Statistics Department, Hong Kong imported about 3 480 tonnes of frozen poultry meat from Poland in the first nine months of last year.     “The CFS has contacted the Polish authority over the issue and will closely monitor information issued by the WOAH and the relevant authorities on the avian influenza outbreak. Appropriate action will be taken in response to the development of the situation,” the spokesman said.

     
    Ends/Monday, January 27, 2025Issued at HKT 15:25

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: WSD’s Photo-taking Challenge on 60th Anniversary of Dongjiang Water Supply to Hong Kong starts tomorrow (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    WSD’s Photo-taking Challenge on 60th Anniversary of Dongjiang Water Supply to Hong Kong starts tomorrow (with photos)
    WSD’s Photo-taking Challenge on 60th Anniversary of Dongjiang Water Supply to Hong Kong starts tomorrow (with photos)
    ******************************************************************************************

         This year marks the 60th anniversary of Dongjiang water supply to Hong Kong. To commemorate this remarkable milestone with members of the public, the Water Supplies Department (WSD) is holding a Photo-taking Challenge on 60th Anniversary of Dongjiang Water Supply to Hong Kong from tomorrow (January 28) to May 18 with an aim to encourage members of the public to visit various related waterworks facilities to deepen their understanding of the Dongjiang water supply system, and also to learn from history and be grateful for the care rendered by the country. Participants who complete designated photo-taking tasks will have a chance to receive a limited edition souvenir. Members of the public are welcome to take part in the challenge.      The challenge covers six waterworks facilities, namely the Sheung Shui Dongjiang water main, the Plover Cove Reservoir, the Tai Lam Chung Reservoir, the High Island Reservoir, the Tin Shui Wai H2OPE Centre and the Shenzhen Reservoir. A section of the Sheung Shui Dongjiang water main is decorated as a bamboo with cute pandas and a WSD mascot named Water Save Dave dressed in a panda costume attract the public to take photos.      To participate, members of the public only have to take photos at the abovementioned waterworks facilities, share the photos in a public post on their Facebook or Instagram accounts and add designated hashtags and tags, and then email the screenshot of the post with the original photo to dj60@wsd.gov.hk. The challenge comprises eight challenge periods. The first 250 participants in each period to complete the above photo-taking challenge steps will receive a limited edition Water Save Dave family blind box doll. A set of four cute Water Save Dave family blind box dolls has been specially designed and produced to commemorate the 60th anniversary of Dongjiang water supply to Hong Kong, making the items exceptional collectibles. For details and rules of the challenge, please visit the event website.      Moreover, two special thematic guided tours of the Dongjiang water supply under the WSD’s “Excursion with Water Save Dave” visiting programme are being organised starting from October last year to March this year as one of the celebration activities for the 60th anniversary of the Dongjiang water supply to Hong Kong. Participants completing the two guided tours are also eligible to redeem a limited edition Water Save Dave family blind box doll. With the public’s great support and participation, the two thematic tours with 4,400 spaces has been fully taken up.

     
    Ends/Monday, January 27, 2025Issued at HKT 15:30

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: DRC creates a reserve force to fight the M23 – why this may backfire

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Judith Verweijen, Assistant professor, Utrecht University

    After nearly three decades of warfare, armed conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) seems only to intensify. The Rwanda-backed M23 rebellion has been at the centre of attention in recent years. However, eastern DRC is home to more than 100 other armed groups, which are a major source of instability too. The question of their demobilisation has haunted the country ever since the end of the Second Congo War in 2003.

    A new chapter in this long-standing conundrum seems to have started. In 2022, the government decided to form an alliance with armed groups to fight their common enemy, the M23 and its Rwandan backers. At around the same time, it launched an initiative to create an army reserve, known as the Reserve armée de la défense (RAD). This formalised the Congolese army’s established practice of using armed groups as auxiliaries.

    The creation of the reserve army allows the government to reward armed group allies with integration while bringing them under institutionalised control. But will this actually work?

    Our past and ongoing research on army integration and demobilisation in eastern DRC casts doubt on the plan, for three reasons.

    The first risk is that armed groups will boost their numbers to gain a stronger bargaining position once integration does occur.

    Secondly, reservist forces may compete with the army over territorial control and limited resources and turn against those who created them.

    Finally, merely absorbing armed groups into a reserve force does little to address the long-standing grievances that underlie conflict in the east.

    The Wazalendo: eastern DRC’s predatory patriots

    On 9 May 2022, in a secretive meeting in the town of Pinga in North Kivu, the Congolese armed forces and several Congolese armed groups agreed to cease hostilities against each other and instead form an alliance to fight their common enemy, the M23.

    As a result, these groups became quasi-official and increasingly presented themselves as defenders of Congo’s territorial integrity. They started to call themselves Wazalendo or patriots in Kiswahili. Fuelled by President Félix Tshisekedi’s supportive rhetoric, the Wazalendo became symbols of Congolese resistance against foreign aggression. This benefited the president’s 2023 electoral campaign.

    Across North and South Kivu provinces, armed groups have rebranded themselves Wazalendo, even when not part of the coalition fighting the M23.

    As the Congolese army’s attention is on the M23, these armed groups have benefited from the lull in operations against them. Most Wazalendo groups are allowed to roam around freely and have dramatically expanded their zones of influence and violent systems of revenue generation.

    This includes taxation at markets and rapidly proliferating roadblocks, but also ransom kidnappings and contract killings. There is also evidence that Wazalendo groups are engaged in torture, sexual violence and arbitrary arrests, and frequently recruit child soldiers.

    Chequered history of integration

    A few months after the Pinga meeting, Congo’s government launched a new national defence policy that mentioned the establishment of the reserve army. Though it was passed unanimously in parliament in April 2023, MPs voiced concerns that the new army reserve risked repeating mistakes of the past.

    The army is itself the product of the painstaking integration of former belligerents after the Second Congo War (1998-2003). But rebel-military integration became an open-ended process. Armed group officers alternately integrated into and deserted from the army in the hope of gaining higher ranks and positions in a next round of integration.

    Unending rebel integration also weakened the national army. It reinforced parallel command chains, facilitated intelligence leaks and created a lopsided hierarchy.

    The first iteration of the M23 rebellion in 2012 was the result of rebel integration gone wrong. In its aftermath, the Congolese government banned the wholesale negotiated integration of armed groups into the army.

    Hurdles to integration

    The reserve army risks unleashing the same dynamics of rewarding rebellion by doling out positions to armed group leaders and granting them impunity for past violence. In April 2024, the leaders of many Wazalendo groups were flown to Kinshasa where the army reserve leadership told them to start preparing lists of their combatants ahead of their integration.

    This has prompted numerous armed groups to step up recruitment.

    The prospect of integration has also triggered fierce competition for positions between Wazalendo commanders. This risks worsening animosities between groups.

    Other hurdles, some of which have been faced before, include:

    Unity of command. Forcing smaller armed groups into a hierarchical mould doesn’t always work. Most have deep local roots, with their recruitment and influence limited to a relatively small area. Used to calling the shots in their home areas, these commanders tend to be reluctant to take orders from higher-placed outsiders.

    Ethnic competition. Armed groups may resist full integration if they feel their rank and positions in the reserve army will be lower and that this will hamper their ability to protect members of their ethnic community. Such “local security dilemmas” have obstructed army integration and demobilisation efforts in the past.

    Resources. Armed groups currently enjoy substantial income, and considerable freedom in obtaining it. Will the reserve army command allow its members to engage in illegal taxation, kidnapping for ransom, robbery and ambushes? If not, how will it compensate for their lost opportunities? In addition, the reserve army is likely to compete with the army over revenue-generating opportunities. And some of its members may leak intelligence to fellow armed groups.

    Painkiller or cure?

    The army reserve may be read as the latest attempt at solving the decades-old problem of getting rid of the many armed groups in eastern DRC, this time by bringing them into the fold of the state yet not into the army.

    However, this solution does risk unleashing many of the same detrimental dynamics as army integration. It may fuel armed mobilisation and militarisation rather than contain it.

    Wazalendo groups are currently in a comfortable position and there are no repercussions for not integrating the reserve force. To contain them, both the DRC’s army and the military justice system would need to be professionalised.

    Even if the reserve army did not have negative ripple effects, it would be an unlikely cure for armed mobilisation. That requires comprehensive, bottom-up peace efforts that tackle deep-seated grievances related to past violence and conflict over belonging, territory and local authority. Barring such efforts, the reserve force will remain a painkiller at best.

    Michel Thill is a Senior Program Officer for swisspeace, a Basel University affiliated practice and research institute dedicated to advancing effective peacebuilding. swisspeace receives funding from research funding bodies, and bilateral and multilateral organizations. Michel is also a Fellow of the Rift Valley Institute.

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

    – ref. DRC creates a reserve force to fight the M23 – why this may backfire – https://theconversation.com/drc-creates-a-reserve-force-to-fight-the-m23-why-this-may-backfire-247476

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: NSU scientists have designed a stand for studying radiation aging of semiconductor photodetectors

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –

    A rig for studying the radiation aging of solid-state photomultipliers (SPMT) was created by scientists from Novosibirsk State University together with their colleagues from the Budker Institute of Nuclear Physics SB RAS. The rig they developed is designed to operate at the boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) facility, which is located at the INP SB RAS. It is integrated into the BNCT facility, expanding its capabilities. The rig is designed to study the radiation aging of SPMT. BNCT makes it possible to irradiate the devices under study with fast neutrons, and the rig, in turn, allows one to observe how this process affects their parameters. The first tests of the rig were conducted in November last year.

    Solid-state photomultiplier tubes (SSPMs) are a type of photodetector that are widely used in science. They can register single photons that result from the interaction of particles with the substance through which they pass. Since there are many such processes (scintillation, Cherenkov radiation, bremsstrahlung, etc.), the scope of application of SSPMs is very diverse. Almost every modern detector employs hundreds and thousands of SSPMs.

    — Under the influence of radiation — in our case, fast neutrons — the material is destroyed. In fact, neutrons destroy the structure of bonds in the semiconductor (usually silicon), from which the TFMTs are made. On the other hand, inside any detector operating at its collider, neutrons are also formed during the collision of counter beams of particles, and, therefore, along with the “useful” particles that the TFMTs are used to register, they undergo radiation aging. As a result, free charge carriers are formed, forming a dark current, and the TFMT at some point simply stops working. Therefore, it is necessary to know the permissible level of radiation at which they can be used. At the same time, the task of physicists is to make detectors such that their systems effectively register particles and at the same time are as little exposed to the harmful effects of radiation exposure as possible, — said the leading engineer of the interfaculty group of advanced developments of the Department of General Physics of the Physics Faculty of NSU, senior researcher at the Institute of Nuclear Physics named after G.I. Budker Institute of Nuclear Physics SB RAS Viktor Bobrovnikov.

    In 2022, scientists from NSU and INP SB RAS spent a month at the BNCT facility studying the effect of radiation on the optical transparency of the fiber used in the calibration system of the electromagnetic calorimeter of the CMS detector operating at the Large Hadron Collider at the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN). Part of this fiber is located quite close to the collision site of hadron beams, so it begins to darken – “age” under the influence of radiation. Studies conducted by scientists from NSU and INP SB RAS showed that the transparency of the fiber degrades by 25-30% at a dose corresponding to 3 years of CMS operation per experiment. The CMS calorimeter calibration team was completely satisfied with the result obtained. In this experiment, the researchers used the equipment and measurement methodology proposed by foreign colleagues. The experience gained was used to create our stand for studying TFMTs.

    The TFMT research setup consists of three main elements. The first is the light distribution system from the source (laser) to the TFMTs under study. It is necessary because all equipment must be located in a radiation-protected area (control room) to prevent damage to the equipment, while the TFMTs are directly exposed to radiation. The second element is a heat and cold chamber. Sometimes it is called a “climate chamber”. It allows you to set a certain temperature for the TFMT from -20 to 55 degrees. Temperature in this case is an important parameter, since the previously mentioned TFMT dark current (or noise) depends on it. If this noise is high enough, it can completely drown out the useful TFMT signal. Also, a “climate chamber” is necessary for researchers because the ambient temperature is quite unstable, and for repeatability of experiments to study the TFMT response, it is necessary to work in one temperature mode under strictly identical conditions. In addition, researchers are interested in conducting research outside room temperature in order to better understand the capabilities of the TFMT. The third important component of the stand is the data collection system. It is needed for digitalization and subsequent recording of signals from the studied TFEU, laser parameters, microclimate parameters in the TFEU location, signals from sensors measuring the stability of the laser source and the transparency of the optical fiber, and so on.

    — The solutions implemented in the stand are already used to one degree or another in various installations. The uniqueness lies in the process of irradiating the TFEU itself. Along with the simultaneous measurement of the TFEU parameters, we can evaluate the level of radiation dose. This gives us a rare opportunity to thoroughly study the level of radiation exposure to the TFEU. Such an opportunity is completely absent when conducting similar studies on reactors; in the end, you will only receive an answer about the initial and final state of your device without understanding how its parameters changed during irradiation, — explained Viktor Bobrovnikov.

    The stand was tested in November last year. A significant amount of data was obtained, which is currently being processed, but scientists are already noting that the effect of radiation aging of the TFEU has become quite obvious and it remains to complete the analysis to fully understand the whole picture.

    — We plan to upgrade the stand taking into account the experimental experience gained. It is impossible to take everything into account at once — some of the features are revealed directly in the process of work. In the conducted irradiation session, we worked with rather old TFEMs, which are now practically not used, but are quite suitable for “testing” the measurement technique in real conditions. Now we have three types of TFEMs, currently used in real experiments. One of them is used in the electromagnetic calorimeter “shashlik” of the MPD detector of the NIKA experiment (Dubna, Moscow). We and our colleagues are interested in knowing the response of these TFEMs to irradiation. So, we have extensive plans, at least for the next 2-3 years, — said Viktor Bobrovnikov.

    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 China: China’s Spring Festival film pre-sales hit 600 mln-yuan in record time

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    With two days to go before the Spring Festival holiday, China’s box office pre-sales for the holiday have reached 600 million yuan (about 83.7 million U.S. dollars) as of Sunday, setting a new record for the fastest time to reach this milestone, according to data from box office trackers.

    Topping the pre-sale chart are domestic movies themed on wuxia (martial arts and chivalry), Chinese mythology and fantasy.

    The Spring Festival, or the Chinese New Year, is the most important festival on the Chinese calendar for family reunions, falling on Jan. 29 this year. The Spring Festival holiday, extended by one day to eight days this year, is one of the most lucrative movie-going seasons in China.

    Observers believe that the figure reflects a strong expectation for quality films among Chinese audiences.

    U.S. investment bank Morgan Stanley predicts that, driven by quality releases and strong market demand, China’s total box office revenue for the holiday may reach a new record of 8.8 billion yuan, up 9 percent from a year ago.

    Besides, it is notable that all the six films set for debut on the Spring Festival are domestic productions.

    According to film data platform Beacon, “The Legend of the Condor Heroes: The Great Hero,” an adaptation of a Chinese wuxia classic, is currently the biggest box-office draw in the pre-sales chart.

    “Ne Zha 2” and “Creation of the Gods II: Demon Force,” both based on Chinese myths, rank second and fourth in the chart, respectively. The fantasy “Detective Chinatown 1900” claims the third spot.

    Xiang Kai, a playwright and director, noted that most of the releases are deeply rooted in traditional Chinese culture, offering “the strongest portfolio in the same period ever” and demonstrating the rising confidence in Chinese culture among viewers in recent years.

    With improved quality, a wider range of genres, and a closer connection to local lifestyles, domestic films are likely to maintain their dominance in the Chinese film market, according to analysts.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Classic Peking Opera still resonates on silver screen

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    Peking Opera master performer Cheng Yanqiu and playwright Weng Ouhong once collaborated in the production of Suo Lin Nang, a bittersweet tale with a happy ending.

    The production premiered in 1940 and remains a showpiece of the Cheng style of Peking Opera to this day. Its morals still resonate with audiences today — lending a helping hand to those in need, kindness begets kindness, and girls help girls.

    In the story, Xue Xiangling, the daughter of a wealthy family, receives a purse filled with jewels from her mother before her wedding. On the way to the ceremony, a sudden downpour forces her to seek shelter in a pavilion where she meets another bride, Zhao Shouzhen, who is crying over her poverty, so Xue gifts Zhao the purse.

    Years later, a flood separates Xue from her family, and she has to work as a maid. She accidentally finds the purse in the house and realizes that the lady of the household is Zhao. Recognizing Xue as her benefactor, Zhao helps her reunite with her family.

    For more than three years, Shanghai Film Group, the National Academy of Chinese Theatre Arts, Shanghai Media Group and the Capital Jinghu Arts Research Association worked together to bring the production to the silver screen, along with Zhang Huoding, a renowned Peking Opera artist and representative performer of the Cheng opera style.

    The film Suo Lin Nang, or The Kylin Purse, made its Beijing premiere at the China National Film Museum on Dec 27.

    “This year marks the 120th anniversary of the birth of Cheng Yanqiu. The Cheng-style influence is profound and the master’s thoughts and spirit continue to enlighten future generations,” Zhang, also a professor at the National Academy of Chinese Theatre Arts, said at the premiere.

    According to her, the film captures the classic stage production through visual storytelling, serving as a tribute to and remembrance of Peking Opera predecessors. “I sincerely hope that the Cheng style continues to thrive and the master’s art will endure,” she adds.

    At the premiere, director Teng Junjie, vice-president of the Shanghai Federation of Literary and Art Circles, said that during the filmmaking process, he was moved by the professionalism and pursuit of excellence demonstrated by the Peking Opera artists.

    Teng recalls filming during the coldest winter months along the coast of Zhejiang province, but the artists, exemplified by Zhang, gritted their teeth and overcame the difficulties while working more than 10 hours a day.

    “Zhang insisted on canceling the trailer we booked for her to save our limited budget to improve the film’s quality,” Teng says.

    Another example of this camaraderie is that while some supporting actors had limited scenes, they insisted on staying on the set, offering to help in any way they could.

    “With 8K resolution, this film is presented to today’s audience with the clearest images, the most saturated colors, and the most precise combination of camera movement and structure,” Teng says.

    This film is made for today and the future, he adds.

    “With this film, we pay tribute to Cheng Yanqiu, our national treasure Peking Opera, and the excellent contemporary performers of the Cheng style who have been working hard to pass down the art form,” Teng says.

    In 2014, the film concept was included in the Peking Opera Film Project, initiated in 2011 to preserve outstanding stage productions through cinematic techniques. It later received support from the China National Arts Fund, which was approved by the State Council in late 2013.

    The completion of The Kylin Purse highlights that all 21 films listed in the project have been produced, with Shanghai Film Group having filmed and produced six.

    Last June, the film made its Shanghai premiere at the 26th Shanghai International Film Festival.

    In November, it was screened at the 9th edition of the festival of traditional Chinese operas in Paris and won one of its top prizes.

    The China National Film Museum has entered all 21 films from the project into its archives and established a permanent exhibition themed on the project.

    “The Kylin Purse is a highly acclaimed classic in the Peking Opera scene,” says Huang Xiaowei, the museum’s curator.

    “Its script upholds long-standing values such as justice and gratitude. With the distinctive Cheng singing style, especially under the superb performance of Zhang Huoding, the production has remarkable artistic depth and appeal,”Huang adds.

    She stresses the vital role Peking Opera played in China’s cinematic history, as the first-ever Chinese film Dingjun Mountain, released in 1905, was a recording of veteran Peking Opera artist Tan Xinpei performing.

    “The exhibition themed on the Peking Opera Film Project has expanded and enriched our museum’s film collection. It has taken on an integral role in showcasing the achievements of Chinese cinema,”Huang adds.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Colombia announces tit-for-tat tariffs on US goods following Trump threat

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Colombian President Gustavo Petro on Sunday announced 25-percent tariffs on all goods from the United States in a tit-for-tat measure after U.S. President Donald Trump imposed tariffs on Colombia.

    Trump said he would impose 25 percent tariffs and various sanctions on Colombia after the South American country refused to allow the landing of two military aircraft carrying deported immigrants.

    “I order the Minister of Foreign Trade to raise tariffs on imports from the United States by 25 percent,” Petro posted on social media platform X. The president also said the government will assist in replacing those U.S. products with Colombian products.

    He said in another message that he would never allow Colombian immigrants to be transported in military aircraft handcuffed as if they were criminals.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Displaced Palestinians return to northern Gaza

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Displaced Palestinians who want to be allowed to return to their homes in northern Gaza wait in al-Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza Strip, on Jan. 26, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Dozens of thousands of Palestinians on Monday began to return to their homes in the city of Gaza and the north of the coastal enclave after 15 months of being forcibly displaced.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Vietnamese PM meets Chinese ambassador on ties

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    This photo shows a view of the Chinese part of the China-Vietnam Detian-Ban Gioc Waterfall cross-border tourism cooperation zone in Chongzuo, south China’s Guangxi Province, Dec. 15, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has vowed to continuously solidify the foundation for building a Vietnam-China community of shared future.

    In a meeting with Chinese Ambassador to Vietnam He Wei in the Vietnamese capital, Chinh said that the traditional friendship between Vietnam and China is time-honored and unbreakable.

    The Communist Party of Vietnam and the Vietnamese government have always regarded the development of relations with China as a strategic choice and top priority, Chinh stressed.

    The Vietnamese prime minister urged both sides to fully leverage the advantages of land and sea connectivity between the two countries and step up substantive cooperation and the implementation of significant and symbolic projects.

    For his part, He said China is willing to work with Vietnam to promote the steady and long-term development of China-Vietnam friendship and contribute to regional and world peace and prosperity.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Auction of personalised vehicle registration marks to be held on February 15

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Auction of personalised vehicle registration marks to be held on February 15
    Auction of personalised vehicle registration marks to be held on February 15
    ****************************************************************************

         The Transport Department (TD) today (January 27) announced that an auction of personalised vehicle registration marks (PVRMs) will be held on February 15 (Saturday) in Meeting Room S421, L4, Old Wing, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Wan Chai.      “A total of 240 approved PVRMs will be put up for public auction. A list of the marks has been uploaded to the department’s website, www.td.gov.hk/en/public_services/vehicle_registration_mark/index.html,” a department spokesman said.      The reserve price of each of these marks is $5,000. Applicants who have paid a deposit of $5,000 should also participate in the bidding (including the first bid at the reserve price). Otherwise, the PVRM concerned may be sold to another bidder at the reserve price.      People who wish to participate in the bidding at the auction should take note of the following points: (1) Bidders are required to produce the following documents for completion of registration and payment procedures immediately after successful bidding: (i) the identity document of the successful bidder;(ii) the identity document of the purchaser (if the purchaser and the successful bidder are different persons);(iii) a copy of the Certificate of Incorporation (if the purchaser is a body corporate); and(iv) a crossed cheque made payable to “The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region” or “The Government of the HKSAR”. For an auctioned mark paid for by cheque, the first three working days after the date of auction will be required for cheque clearance confirmation before processing of the application for mark assignment can be completed. Successful bidders may also pay through the Easy Pay System (EPS), but are reminded to note the maximum transfer amount in the same day of the payment card. Payment by post-dated cheque, cash, credit card or other methods will not be accepted. (2) Purchasers must make payment of the purchase price through EPS or by crossed cheque and complete the Memorandum of Sale of PVRM immediately after the bidding. Subsequent alteration of the particulars in the Memorandum will not be permitted. (3) A PVRM can only be assigned to a motor vehicle which is registered in the name of the purchaser. The Certificate of Incorporation must be produced immediately by the purchaser if a vehicle registration mark purchased is to be registered under the name of a body corporate. (4) The display of a PVRM on a motor vehicle should be in compliance with the requirements stipulated in Schedule 4 of the Road Traffic (Registration and Licensing of Vehicles) Regulations. (5) Any change to the arrangement of letters, numerals and blank spaces of a PVRM, i.e. single and two rows as auctioned, will not be allowed. (6) The purchaser shall, within 12 months after the date of auction, apply to the Commissioner for Transport for the PVRM to be assigned to a motor vehicle registered in the name of the purchaser. If the purchaser fails to assign the PVRM within 12 months, allocation of the PVRM will be cancelled and arranged for re-allocation in accordance with the statutory provision without prior notice to the purchaser.      “Upon completion of the Memorandum of Sale of PVRM, the purchaser will be issued a receipt and a Certificate of Allocation of Personalised Registration Mark. The Certificate of Allocation will serve to prove the holdership of the PVRM. Potential buyers of vehicles bearing a PVRM should check the Certificate of Allocation with the sellers and pay attention to the details therein. For transfer of vehicle ownership, this certificate together with other required documents should be sent to the TD for processing,” the spokesman added.      For other auction details, please refer to the Guidance Notes – Auction of PVRM, which is available at the department’s licensing offices or can be downloaded from its website, www.td.gov.hk/en/public_services/vehicle_registration_mark/pvrm_auction/index.html.

     
    Ends/Monday, January 27, 2025Issued at HKT 14:30

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hospital Authority announces service arrangements of general out-patient and Chinese medicine clinics during Lunar New Year holidays

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

     District 
     18 CMCTRs 
     Address 
     Telephone number for booking 
     Service hours 

     Hong Kong Island 
     Tung Wah Group of Hospitals – The University of Hong Kong Chinese Medicine Clinic cum Training and Research Centre (Central & Western District) 
     1/F, Hawkins Wing and Yeo Wing, Tung Wah Hospital, 12 Po Yan Street, Sheung Wan 
     2589 4700 
     January 31, 202509:00 – 13:00 14:00 – 18:00 

     Tung Wah Group of Hospitals – The University of Hong Kong Chinese Medicine Clinic cum Training and Research Centre (Eastern District) 
     Lower 4th Floor, West Wing, Specialist Out-patient Block, Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital, 3 Lok Man Road, Chai Wan 
     3197 2000 
     January 30, 202509:00 – 13:00 January 31, 202509:00 – 13:00 

     The Hong Kong Tuberculosis Association – The University of Hong Kong Chinese Medicine Clinic cum Training and Research Centre (Southern District) 
     2/F, Aberdeen Jockey Club Clinic, 10 Aberdeen Reservoir Road, Aberdeen 
     2580 8158 
     January 31, 202509:00 – 17:00   

     The Hong Kong Tuberculosis Association – The University of Hong Kong Chinese Medicine Clinic cum Training and Research Centre (Wan Chai District) 
     2/F, Tang Shiu Kin Hospital Community Ambulatory Care Centre, 282 Queen’s Road East, Wan Chai 
     3553 3238 
     January 31, 202509:00 – 17:00   

     Kowloon 
     Pok Oi Hospital – Hong Kong Baptist University Chinese Medicine Clinic cum Training and Research Centre (Kowloon City District) 
     Unit 401-412, Po Man House, Oi Man Estate, Ho Man Tin 
     2193 7000 
     January 31, 202509:00 – 13:00 14:00 – 17:00 

     Christian Family Service Centre – The Chinese University of Hong Kong Chinese Medicine Clinic cum Training and Research Centre (Kwun Tong District) 
     4/F, Ngau Tau Kok Jockey Club Clinic, 60 Ting On Street, Ngau Tau Kok 
     3583 4114 
     January 31, 202509:00 – 16:00   

     Yan Chai Hospital – Hong Kong Baptist University Chinese Medicine Clinic cum Training and Research Centre (Sham Shui Po District) 
     1/F, Cheung Sha Wan Government Offices, 303 Cheung Sha Wan Road, Sham Shui Po 
     2194 9911 
     January 30, 202509:00 – 13:00 January 31, 202509:00 – 13:00 

     The Hong Kong Buddhist Association – The University of Hong Kong Chinese Medicine Clinic cum Training and Research Centre (Wong Tai Sin District) 
     G/F & M/F, Block C, Hong Kong Buddhist Hospital, 10 Heng Lam Street, Lok Fu 
     2338 3103 
     January 31, 202509:00 – 17:00   

     Pok Oi Hospital – Hong Kong Baptist University Chinese Medicine Clinic cum Training and Research Centre (Yau Tsim Mong District) 
     9/F, Block R, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, 30 Gascoigne Road, Jordan 
     2618 7200 
     January 31, 202509:00 – 13:0014:00 – 17:00   

     New Territories 
     Yan Oi Tong – The University of Hong Kong Chinese Medicine Clinic cum Training and Research Centre (Islands District) 
     1/F, Block 2, Tung Chung Health Centre, No. 6 Fu Tung Street, Tung Chung, Lantau Island 
     3188 5383 
     January 31, 202508:00 – 13:0014:00 – 18:00 

     Yan Chai Hospital – Hong Kong Baptist University Chinese Medicine Clinic cum Training and Research Centre (Kwai Tsing District) 
     G/F, Ha Kwai Chung Polyclinic & Special Education Services Centre, 77 Lai Cho Road, Kwai Chung 
     2370 2216 
     January 30, 202509:00 – 13:00January 31, 202509:00 – 13:00 

     HKFTU Workers’ Medical Clinics – Hong Kong Baptist University Chinese Medicine Clinic cum Training and Research Centre (North District) 
     7/F, Fanling Health Centre, 2 Pik Fung Road, Fanling 
     2670 2130 
     January 31, 202509:00 – 12:0013:00 – 17:00 

     Haven of Hope – The Chinese University of Hong Kong Chinese Medicine Clinic cum Training and Research Centre (Sai Kung District) 
     6/F, Ambulatory Care Block, Tseung Kwan O Hospital, No 2 Po Ning Lane, Hang Hau, Tseung Kwan O 
     2701 1020 
     January 31, 202509:00 – 12:3014:00 – 17:30 

     Pok Oi Hospital – The Chinese University of Hong Kong Chinese Medicine Clinic cum Training and Research Centre (Shatin District) 
     G/F, Sha Tin (Tai Wai) Clinic, 2 Man Lai Road, Tai Wai, Sha Tin 
     2479 2126 
     January 30, 202509:00 – 13:00January 31, 202509:00 – 13:0014:00 – 17:00 

     United Christian Nethersole Community Health Service – The Chinese University of Hong Kong Chinese Medicine Clinic cum Training and Research Centre (Tai Po District) 
     G/F, Block J, Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital, 11 Chuen On Road, Tai Po 
     2663 0004 
     January 31, 202509:00 – 13:0014:00 – 18:00  

     Yan Chai Hospital – Hong Kong Baptist University Chinese Medicine Clinic cum Training and Research Centre (Tsuen Wan District) 
     4/F, Block C, Yan Chai Hospital, 7-11 Yan Chai Street, Tsuen Wan 
     2416 0303 
     January 30, 202509:00 – 13:00January 31, 202509:00 – 13:00   

     Yan Oi Tong – The Chinese University of Hong Kong Chinese Medicine Clinic cum Training and Research Centre (Tuen Mun District) 
     5/F, Yan Oi Polyclinic, 6 Tuen Lee Street, Tuen Mun 
     2430 1309 
     January 30, 202509:00 – 13:0014:00 – 18:00  

     Pok Oi Hospital – The Chinese University of Hong Kong Chinese Medicine Clinic cum Training and Research Centre (Yuen Long District) 
     3/F, Madam Yung Fung Shee Health Centre, 26 Sai Ching Street, Yuen Long 
     2478 5769 
     January 30, 202509:00 – 13:00 January 31, 202509:00 – 13:0014:00 – 17:00 

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Weather News Update – Sunny Interlude Before Midweek Rain – MetService

    Source: MetService

    UPDATE: Covering period of Monday 27 – Thursday 30 January – MetService is forecasting a quieter weather day on Tuesday before another system sweeps across the South Island later in the day and into Wednesday, bringing rain and strong winds. Meanwhile, the North Island gets a reprieve from the muggy conditions of the past weekend, enjoying fresher air ahead of the next weather system later this week.

    Following the devastating tornado in Mangawhai early on Sunday morning, Monday brought yet another day of unsettled weather for parts of Aotearoa New Zealand. Showers and thunderstorms were widespread in the east, with unseasonable snow falling in elevated parts of Canterbury, driven by a cold front moving northward. For regions marking Auckland Anniversary Day in the northern half of the North Island, the day was brighter and more settled.

    This brighter weather extends across much of the country on Tuesday, thanks to a brief ridge of high pressure. MetService meteorologist Mmathapelo Makgabutlane explains, “After an active couple of days weather-wise, many may welcome a bright and sunny summer day. However, the odd shower may still pop up in the western South Island and upper North Island. Later in the afternoon, the next weather system begins to make its presence felt.”

    From Tuesday afternoon, winds strengthen over the lower South Island as the approaching weather system brings the potential for Heavy Rain and Strong Winds. MetService has issued Strong Wind Watches from Fiordland to inland Canterbury for Tuesday late afternoon to Wednesday. Heavy Rain Watches are also in effect for Fiordland and the ranges of the Westland District, primarily overnight Tuesday and into Wednesday. In the eastern South Island, brief rain is expected on Wednesday as the weather system moves through, while conditions clear on Thursday, with lingering rain possible for Buller and Tasman. The rain reaches the lower North Island early Thursday, where it is expected to be for much of the day.

    In the North Island, the muggy conditions of recent days are replaced by cooler, fresher air. Single-digit temperatures may greet some areas in the central and lower North Island on Tuesday morning. “I imagine the cooler temperatures will make sleeping a lot easier for many compared to these last few nights,” adds Makgabutlane. However, warm overnight temperatures return to the lower North Island towards the end of the working week.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Name Release, Fatal crash, Winton Lorneville Highway

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Police can now confirm the name of the woman who died following a two-vehicle crash on Winton Lorneville Highway, Tuesday 21 January.

    She was Thachawalai Youngdaeng of Thailand.

    Our thoughts are with her family and loved ones at this difficult time.

    Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Detectives investigating a rape in Westminster release E-FIT of man they want to identify

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Detectives investigating a rape in Westminster have released an E-FIT image of a man they are working to identify.

    On Tuesday, 14 June 2022, a woman reported walking alone along Bradiston Road, W9, when a car, believed to be a dark coloured Audi A3, stopped at the junction ahead of her.

    An unknown man pushed the woman from behind into the vehicle, then drove away with her inside before raping her.

    After the assault the woman was pushed back out of the vehicle not far from where she’d been picked up.

    The incident happened at 21:00hrs one evening in March 2022.

    Detectives have released an e-fit of the man they urgently need to trace.

    He was described as speaking with a Jamaican accent and believed to be in his late 30s, tall with short dreadlocks, and a significant facial scar.

    Detective Constable, Leon Riley, from the policing team covering Westminster, said:

    “If you recognise the man in the image please contact us without delay.

    “We have been carrying out extensive enquiries since the incident and we continue to support the victim who, as far as possible, has been trying to live her life as normal since it happened.

    “It was a horrifying ordeal for her and we thank her for supporting the investigation to trace the man responsible for assaulting her, and now helping us build an e-fit of the suspect.

    “Women should be able to walk alone without fear and we are dedicated to protecting women and girls from predatory offenders such as this.

    “Anyone who recognises the man, or has information, please contact police on 101 quoting 6533840/22.

    “Or, to remain completely anonymous call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org.”

    MIL Security OSI –