NewzIntel.com

Category: AM-NC

  • Air Chief Marshal AP Singh wishes Group Captain Shubahanshu Shukla ahead of Axiom-4 space mission

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, on Tuesday interacted via video conference with Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, who is set to embark on the Axiom-4 space mission, an official statement from the Indian Air Force said.

    Air Chief Marshal Singh extended best wishes to Group Captain Shukla, who will be India’s second astronaut to travel to space since 1984.

    In a post on X, IAF said, “As Group Captain Shubahanshu Shukla prepares to embark on the Axiom-4 space mission tomorrow, Chief of the Air Staff and all Air Warriors of IAF wish him and the entire crew of Axiom-4 all the best for a safe and successful trip to the International Space Station. This will add a new chapter to the Indian Space Odyssey”.

    The Axiom-4 mission, originally scheduled for launch on June 10, was postponed due to unfavorable weather and is now set for 5:30 PM IST on June 11. The mission will carry Shukla to the International Space Station (ISS). The crew includes members from India, Poland, and Hungary, marking each nation’s first mission to the ISS. According to Axiom Space, this will be India’s second government-sponsored human spaceflight since Rakesh Sharma’s historic flight in 1984.

    In a video message shared by Axiom Space, Shukla expressed his excitement about the opportunity, recalling how he was inspired by India’s first astronaut, Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma. He also revealed that he learned about his selection just a week before reporting for training.

    Earlier, SpaceX Vice President of Build and Flight Reliability, William Gerstenmaier, emphasized safety improvements in the Dragon capsule used for this mission, noting design changes to propulsion components to enhance reliability for human spaceflight.

    Notably, SpaceX is on track for a record-breaking year, with around 100 launches remaining to reach its ambitious target of 170 orbital missions in 2025.

    -ANI

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: PM call with Chancellor Merz of Germany: 9 June 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    PM call with Chancellor Merz of Germany: 9 June 2025

    The Prime Minister spoke to the German Chancellor, Friedrich Merz ahead of the G7 and NATO summits later this month.

    The Prime Minister spoke to the German Chancellor, Friedrich Merz ahead of the G7 and NATO summits later this month.

    The leaders began reflecting on the Chancellor’s visit to Washington D.C. last week and welcomed President Trump’s efforts to secure a sustainable peace for Ukraine.

    Both leaders also welcomed efforts by NATO Allies to step up defence spending and agreed on the importance of a NATO that was fair, resilient and had the capabilities it needed to face the threats of today.

    Discussing proposals to increase focus and funding for national resilience and protecting critical national infrastructure, the leaders welcomed NATO’s suggestions in this space.

    Turning to the challenge of tackling illegal migration, the leaders agreed on the importance of working together to intercept migrant routes upstream, and the need to go further together to break the business model of smuggling gangs.

    Both looked forward to seeing one another again soon.

    Updates to this page

    Published 10 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Rolls-Royce SMR selected to build small modular nuclear reactors

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Rolls-Royce SMR selected to build small modular nuclear reactors

    Rolls-Royce SMR selected as preferred bidder to build country’s first small modular reactors

    • New era for nuclear power as Rolls-Royce SMR selected as preferred bidder to build country’s first small modular reactors 

    • Follows rigorous two-year competition to select nuclear technology for UK deployment, building clean power for the country through publicly-owned company

    • Project could support up to 3,000 jobs at peak construction and power the equivalent of around 3 million of today’s homes as part of government’s Plan for Change to make the UK a clean energy superpower

    Rolls-Royce SMR has been selected as the preferred bidder to partner with Great British Energy – Nuclear to develop small modular reactors, subject to final government approvals and contract signature – marking a new golden age of nuclear in the UK. 

    Today (Tuesday 10 June) Great British Energy – Nuclear is taking on a new name from Great British Nuclear, reflecting its joint mission with Great British Energy to rollout clean homegrown power as two publicly-owned energy companies.

    As part of the government’s modern Industrial Strategy to revive Britain’s industrial heartlands, the government is pledging over £2.5 billion for the overall small modular reactor programme in this Spending Review period – with this project potentially supporting up to 3,000 new skilled jobs and powering the equivalent of around 3 million homes with clean, secure homegrown energy.

    The biggest nuclear rollout for a generation will support the clean power mission – boosting energy security and protecting families’ finances. Great British Energy – Nuclear is aiming to sign contracts with Rolls-Royce SMR later this year and will form a development company.

    Great British Energy – Nuclear will also aim to allocate a site later this year and connect projects to the grid in the mid-2030s. Once small modular reactors and Sizewell C come online in the 2030s, combined with the new station at Hinkley Point C, this will deliver more nuclear to the grid than over the previous half century.

    “SMRs” are smaller and quicker to build than traditional nuclear plants, with costs likely to come down as units are rolled out. The outcome of this competition is the first step towards reducing costs and unlocking private finance, enabling the UK to realise its long-term ambition of delivering one of Europe’s first small modular reactor fleets. It comes after the government announced plans to shake up the planning rules to make it easier to build nuclear, including small modular reactors across the country.

    Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said: 

    We are ending the no-nuclear status quo as part of our Plan for Change and are entering a golden age of nuclear with the biggest building programme in a generation. 

    Great British Energy – Nuclear has run a rigorous competition and will now work with the preferred bidder Rolls-Royce SMR to build the country’s first ever small modular reactors – creating thousands of jobs and growing our regional economies while strengthening our energy security.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, said:

    The UK is back where it belongs, taking the lead in the technologies of tomorrow with Rolls-Royce SMR as the preferred partner for this journey.

    We’re backing Britain with Great British Energy – Nuclear’s ambition to ensure 70% of supply chain products are British built, delivering our Plan for Change through more jobs and putting more money in people’s pockets.

    Simon Bowen, Chairman of Great British Energy – Nuclear said: 

    This announcement is a defining moment for the UK’s energy and industrial future. 

    By selecting a preferred bidder, we are taking a decisive step toward delivering clean, secure, and sovereign power. This is about more than energy—it’s about revitalising British industry, creating thousands of skilled jobs, and building a platform for long-term economic growth.

    Gwen Parry-Jones, CEO of Great British Energy – Nuclear, said:  

    We are proud to lead this national mission. Nuclear is the cornerstone of the UK’s energy strategy, and today’s announcement will accelerate deployment.  

    Together with Rolls-Royce SMR, our selected preferred bidder, and subject to government approvals and contract signature, we will deliver a programme that is technically world-class and delivers real value to the British people—through energy security, economic opportunity, and environmental leadership.

    The global SMR market is, according to the International Energy Agency, projected to reach up to nearly £500 billion by 2050, and today’s announcement puts Britain at a competitive advantage as a frontrunner in the global race to build new nuclear technology. 

    The selection follows a rigorous and transparent procurement process over two years, with the competition having launched in July 2023. Subject to final approvals and contract signature, Rolls-Royce SMR Ltd will enter a strategic technology development partnership with Great British Energy – Nuclear – a fully publicly-owned company. 

    Rolls-Royce SMR is progressing through the final stage of the assessment by the UK nuclear industry’s independent regulators.

    ENDS

    Updates to this page

    Published 10 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Delegation from Lobnya, Moscow Region, Visits Mount Taishan

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, June 10 (Xinhua) — A delegation from Lobnya City District of the Moscow Region of the Russian Federation visited Mount Taishan in Shandong Province, where they experienced the unique charm of traditional Chinese culture at the Daimiao Temple and felt the continuity of the spiritual origins of Chinese civilization at the peak of Mount Taishan.

    Founded during the Han Dynasty (206 BC – 220 AD), the Daimiao Temple is the largest surviving ancient architectural complex at the foot of Mount Taishan. It was designated a national cultural heritage site by the State Council of China in 1988.

    As reported by the Shandong Province information portal “sdchina.com.cn”, on the morning of May 29, the delegation members visited the Daimiao Temple. The ancient buildings and priceless relics, preserving a thousand-year history, aroused genuine interest among the guests. Olga Felyaeva, a member of the delegation, was especially delighted by the majestic “fused cypresses of the Han Dynasty”, whose crowns proudly reach into the sky.

    The delegation then ascended to the “Southern Gate of Heaven” /”Nantianmen”/. Since ancient times, Mount Taishan has symbolized the stability of the state and the prosperity of the nation. Despite their prior acquaintance with Mount Taishan, the majestic scenery left an indelible impression on the guests.

    “It is a great honor for us to visit Taishan. We hope that more and more tourists will be able to appreciate its unique beauty. Lobnya intends to deepen friendship with the city of Tai’an, expand cultural exchanges and mutual enrichment of civilizations,” said O. Felyaeva.

    Sister cities Lobnya /Moscow region/ and Tai’an /Shandong province, eastern China/ have maintained friendly ties since 2006, actively developing cooperation in the fields of culture, sports, education and economics. The current visit has strengthened mutual understanding and trust, taking inter-municipal relations to a new level.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: California Sues Trump for ‘Illegal’ Deployment of National Guard

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    SACRAMENTO, United States, June 10 (Xinhua) — The U.S. state of California on Monday sued the Donald Trump administration for deploying National Guard troops to Los Angeles amid protests against immigration raids, calling it “an undeniable step toward authoritarianism.”

    California Gov. Gavin Newsom and state Attorney General Rob Bonta announced Monday that they had filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration to stop the “unlawful and unjustified deployment” of National Guard troops, which they said “has led to an unnecessary escalation of chaos and violence in Los Angeles County.”

    The lawsuit names President Trump, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and the Department of Defense. It alleges that the deployment of National Guard troops violates the U.S. Constitution and exceeds the president’s authority because it was done without the governor’s consent or participation and was unjustified, the governor’s office said in a press release Monday.

    The protests initially began in response to immigration enforcement. Tensions between protesters and law enforcement escalated on Friday, with some demonstrators throwing objects and police using tear gas and flash-bang grenades.

    In response, Trump ordered the deployment of 2,000 National Guard troops on Saturday. Protests intensified on Sunday, with clashes between demonstrators and law enforcement officers increasing.

    “President Trump’s order to deploy federal National Guard troops to Los Angeles over the objections of the Governor and local law enforcement is unnecessary and counterproductive,” California Attorney General Robert Bonta said in a statement Monday.

    According to G. Newsom, the deployment of the National Guard is a “man-made crisis.” The state governor accused D. Trump of “deliberately creating chaos, terrorizing the population, and threatening the principles of our great democracy.”

    “This is an undoubted step towards authoritarianism. We cannot allow this,” the governor added.

    After the lawsuit was announced, Trump wrote on social media that his administration would “fight back” if protesters “spit” on National Guard troops.

    On Monday, D. Trump called for the arrest of the governor of California. “The President of the United States just called for the arrest of a sitting governor. I hoped I would never see this day in America,” Newsom wrote in response on social media. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: President of Uzbekistan held a meeting with the Prime Minister of Slovakia

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    Tashkent, June 10 (Xinhua) — Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico held a meeting, the press service of the Uzbek leader reported on Monday.

    “On June 9, negotiations were held at the Kuksaroy residence between the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev and the Prime Minister of the Slovak Republic Robert Fico,” the statement said.

    As reported, current issues of further development of practical cooperation between Uzbekistan and Slovakia were discussed. At the beginning of the meeting, the leader of Uzbekistan particularly emphasized that the current visit opens a qualitatively new stage in the history of Uzbek-Slovak multifaceted relations.

    It is noted that special attention was paid to issues of increasing trade turnover, primarily by expanding the range of mutual deliveries. “We are talking about deliveries from Uzbekistan of textile, agricultural, electrical, chemical products, polymers, and from Slovakia – rubber, auto components, pharmaceuticals, and other industrial goods,” the report says.

    In conclusion, an agreement was reached that, in order to ensure timely and high-quality implementation of the decisions and agreements made, the governments of the two countries will adopt a comprehensive “road map.” –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: All members of CDC’s immunization advisory committee fired

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    NEW YORK, June 10 (Xinhua) — U.S. Surgeon General Robert Kennedy Jr. on Monday fired all 17 members of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)’s immunization advisory committee, saying the move would restore public confidence in vaccines.

    About two-thirds of the commission’s members were appointed in the final year of the Biden administration, Kennedy Jr. said in announcing his decision in a column for the Wall Street Journal.

    “The CDC’s immunization advisers wield enormous influence,” the New York Times commented. They scrutinize vaccine data, debate the evidence, and decide who should get shots and when. Insurance companies and federal health insurance programs like Medicaid are required to pay for vaccines recommended by the committee.

    The committee was scheduled to meet from June 25 to 27. It is not yet known when the new members will be announced, but the meeting will go ahead as planned, according to a statement released by the Department of Health and Human Services.

    “This is the latest in a series of steps by Mr. Kennedy, a vaccine skeptic, to destroy decades of immunization standards,” the statement said. The advisory committee, which is more aligned with the views of R. Kennedy Jr., could significantly change or even reverse recommendations for immunizations for Americans, including childhood vaccinations. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Pakistan sees gradual economic recovery, GDP grows 2.7 percent – Economic Review

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    ISLAMABAD, June 10 (Xinhua) — Pakistan’s economy registered a 2.7 percent growth in its gross domestic product (GDP) in the outgoing fiscal year, according to the Economic Survey 2024-25 released by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb on Monday.

    Although the figure remained below the government’s initial target of 3.6 percent, the growth was achieved despite the difficult global economic situation, the minister said.

    “I think this is the right way forward in terms of sustainable growth,” Aurangzeb said, describing the 2.7 percent figure as a sign of gradual economic recovery.

    Pakistan’s GDP contracted by 0.2 percent in the previous fiscal year, but has grown to 2.5 percent this year. The minister stressed that the government is keen to avoid a return to cyclical fluctuations. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Automated container berth in Qingdao Port, Shandong Province

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    QINGDAO, June 10 (Xinhua) — This photo shows an automated container berth at the Qingdao Port in east China’s Shandong Province.

    QINGDAO, June 10 (Xinhua) — This photo shows an automated container berth at the port of Qingdao in east China’s Shandong Province.

    QINGDAO, June 10 (Xinhua) — This photo shows an automated container berth at the Qingdao Port in east China’s Shandong Province.

    QINGDAO, June 10 (Xinhua) — This photo shows an automated container berth at the Qingdao Port in east China’s Shandong Province.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New Tourism Growth Roadmap

    Source: Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment (MBIE)

    This includes investing more than $19 million in international marketing across core and emerging tourism markets plus $8 million on attracting business and major events to New Zealand.

    The Government is also investing $4 million towards improving the visitor experience along the Milford Road corridor.

    This is the first stage of the Tourism Growth Roadmap, which sets out steps the Government is taking to grow the value of tourism, which is currently New Zealand’s second largest export. As visitor numbers increase, the Roadmap will shift over time to focus more on the supply side of tourism to support this growth.

    Funding comes from the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL).

    Find out more on the MBIE website:

    Tourism Growth Roadmap

    Read the Minister’s release:

    More funding to grow international tourism(external link) — Beehive.govt.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatal crash: Seaview Avenue, Northcote

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Police are attending a fatal single vehicle crash in Northcote this evening.

    The crash occurred just after 4.30pm, where a vehicle left Onewa Road and collided with a power pole on Seaview Avenue.

    Despite medical assistance being provided at the scene, sadly we can confirm the sole occupant has died.

    The Serious Crash Unit attended the scene and carried out an examination.

    Enquiries will be carried out on behalf of the Coroner.

    ENDS

    Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Search for Victorian man at Cradle Mountain

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Search for Victorian man at Cradle Mountain

    Tuesday, 10 June 2025 – 4:23 pm.

    Parks and Wildlife Service rangers, with the support of a Tasmania Police drone, are continuing to search at Cradle Mountain for a 52-year-old Victorian man.
    There are concerns for the welfare of Christopher Michael Inwood, whose white Toyota HiAce van (VIC Rego 1TZ8PQ) was located in the car park of a ranger station on Cradle Mountain Road about 7.30am on Tuesday.
    A backpack, believed to belong to Mr Inwood, was located about 500m along the Cradle Mountain Road leading from the car park, in the direction of Dove Lake.
    Initial inquiries established Mr Inwood’s last confirmed location as Kelso, in the state’s north, on Sunday night.
    However, further investigation has identified a possible sighting of Mr Inwood and his vehicle in the Kindred area, about 8:30pm on Monday. It is believed he may have travelled to Cradle Mountain later that night.
    Police have released a CCTV image of Mr Inwood, captured over the weekend, to assist in identifying him.
    The search operation is being coordinated by Tasmania Police Search and Rescue however, specialist search officers have not yet been deployed.
    As of 3pm today, weather conditions in the area remain relatively clear, with a temperature of about 3°C.
    Anyone who has seen Mr Inwood, knows of his movements, or has any information that may assist the search, is urged to contact Tasmania Police on 131 444.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Announcement on Open Market Operations No.108 [2025]

    Source: Peoples Bank of China

    Announcement on Open Market Operations No.108 [2025]

    (Open Market Operations Office, June 10, 2025)

    The People’s Bank of China conducted reverse repo operations in the amount of RMB198.6 billion through quantity bidding at a fixed interest rate on June 10, 2025.

    Details of the Reverse Repo Operations

    Maturity

    Rate

    Bidding Volume

    Winning Bid Volume

    7 days

    1.40%

    RMB198.6 billion

    RMB198.6 billion

    Date of last update Nov. 29 2018

    2025年06月10日

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: AFRICA GREEN HYDROGEN SUMMIT LAUNCH

    Source: Republic of South Africa (video statements-2)

    AFRICA GREEN HYDROGEN SUMMIT LAUNCH

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=layePzK4MfI

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: More funding to grow international tourism

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government is increasing funding for attracting overseas visitors and investing in tourism infrastructure as part of its new Tourism Growth Roadmap, Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston says.
    “We’re investing $35 million to deliver the first stage of the Roadmap, which sets out the Government’s plan to double the value of tourism,” Louise Upston says.
    “International visitors bring billions of dollars into New Zealand, from big ticket spends to everyday purchases in local cafes and accommodation. 
    “We want to welcome more visitors to New Zealand, and we want our regional communities to improve their capacity to look after those visitors.
    “The Government must work with industry to unlock the full potential of our tourism sector, and the Roadmap lays out initiatives and investments to ensure our infrastructure, workforce and communities can support further growth.
    “For the 2025/26 financial year, we’re investing $6 million in international marketing across emerging tourism markets, $3 million to increase the number of business events hosted in New Zealand, and an additional $5 million towards the Major Events Fund.
    “These commitments follow the recent announcements of $13.5 million invested in international tourism marketing and $4 million of investment towards improving the visitor experience along the Milford Road corridor.
    “Recent tourism funding has been about boosting visitor numbers. As those higher numbers become established, the Roadmap will shift over time to focus more on supporting communities to look after them well,” Louise Upston says. 
    This investment comes from the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy. This levy is charged to most international visitors, and ensures they are contributing to the public services, facilities and natural environment they will enjoy while in New Zealand.
    More information can be found on the MBIE website.
    Notes to editor: 
    The Tourism Growth Roadmap is attached as a separate document.
    New tourism investments for the 2025/26 financial year include:

    $6 million in Tourism New Zealand’s marketing in the emerging markets of India and Southeast Asia,
    $3 million to increase the number of business events hosted in New Zealand, as part of Tourism New Zealand’s collaboration with Business Events Industry Aotearoa,
    An additional $5 million towards the Major Events Fund,
    $13.5 million in Tourism New Zealand’s marketing in core markets of Australia, the United States and China,
    $4 million towards a wider package of work to improve visitor experiences and reduce congestion along the Milford Road corridor. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Tourism Growth Roadmap speech to Business Events Industry Aotearoa (BEIA)

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Tēnā koutou katoa. Thank you for the warm welcome. It is my pleasure to welcome you all to MEETINGS 2025.

    First, I would like to acknowledge Mayor Wayne Brown attending MEETINGS 2025 today and a special acknowledgment to Ngāti Whatua Orakei for their pōwhiri and welcome. 

    I would also like to recognise Tataki Auckland Unlimited and in particular the Auckland Convention Bureau for their dedication and hard work advocating for Auckland as a world-class visitor destination.

    Last but not the least, I’d like to extend a heartfelt thank you to some incredible individuals who make events like this possible, a huge thank you again to BEIA Chief Executive Lisa Hopkins and Board Chair Martin Snedden.

    Your leadership across the business events in New Zealand and creating such vibrant and energetic gatherings like MEETINGS 2025 are truly appreciated and make a difference to New Zealand.

    To our local and international buyers, exhibitors and media – thank you for making the journey from around the world to join us in Auckland. 

    Events like MEETINGS are so important for bringing incredible opportunities to our regions, building valuable connections with our offshore markets and strengthening our business events sector.

    There is no doubt that New Zealand’s business events industry is on the rise – and that’s thanks to the fantastic organisations and individuals like you in this room today. 

    You are the driving force behind a growing pipeline of high-value deals across sectors. These opportunities are helping boost productivity, support local communities, and grow our regions.

    Together, we are putting New Zealand as a top place to do business – and the conversations and connections you make over the next few days will help us even further.

    Events like this are a powerful reminder of what it takes to deliver world-class experiences – whether its state-of-the-art venues, exceptional food and catering, smooth logistics, or engaging content. 

    Beyond their direct economic benefits, business events connect us, foster new ideas and drive innovation across industries. I want to acknowledge the vital role you all play – not just as the professionals of tourism and hospitality, but as ambassadors of New Zealand.

    Your commitment lay the foundation for successful events and help position our country as a world leader in the excellence we are known for.

    Increasing tourism and creating a strong economy is a key focus for the next few years, and the economic contribution of the business events sector is a critical element to success. 

    Business events punch well above their weight in attracting high-value international conferences to our regions and main centres throughout the year, and MEETINGS is a prime example of this. 

    I hope you enjoy your Auckland experience and participate in the amazing visitor experience while you are here. 

    As Minister for Tourism and Hospitality, I have two priorities for the portfolio. 

    My first priority is to grow international tourism by both increasing the number of international visitors to New Zealand in the short term, and doubling the value of tourism exports by 2034.

    My second priority is to grow the number of Kiwis in tourism and hospitality jobs which will further support our wider economic growth objectives.

    Our business events sector plays a huge role in showcasing New Zealand as a progressive, entrepreneurial destination and will play a significant role in achieving our goal of doubling tourism exports. 

    Business event participants spend an average of $175 more per day than other visitors, and importantly, often visit in the off-peak period between March and November, boosting tourism and economic activity year-round. This is exactly why we are making positive changes to support its growth.

    In April, alongside the Minister of Health and the Minister for Regulation, I was thrilled to announce a change to the Medicines Act. The change will allow for medicines to be advertised that have not yet been consented by Medsafe at medical conferences in New Zealand. 

    This shift removes a long-standing barrier and opens the door to hosting more international medical conferences and trade shows, unlocking an estimated $90 million in future revenue. 

    On top of that, we’re continuously working to attract high-value incentive business to New Zealand. It’s all part of our effort to make our country a go-to place for significant business events.

    As part of my Tourism Boost package, I provided $3 million to Tourism New Zealand to make an additional 15-20 bids for business events in 2026 and beyond through its existing Conference Assistance Programme. 

    This investment has already supported Tourism New Zealand to win three bids valued at $7.5 million.

    Our message is clear, New Zealand is open for business. We are looking forward to welcoming more business events and conferences to New Zealand and hosting them in our great facilities.

    Tourism is our second largest export earner and a crucial component of our workforce, and we cannot understate the benefits it provides to our country.

    We’re committed to continue growing the sector, which is why today, I am announcing the launch of the Tourism Growth Roadmap. The Roadmap follows my recent Tourism Boost package and is the second step towards doubling our tourism export value by 2034.

    The final Roadmap has been carefully developed based on the conversations I have had with industry leaders since taking over the portfolio and reflects what I’ve heard is important to you. 

    The first package of investment will continue to prioritise increasing international visitor volumes, with around 80 per cent of the investment going towards demand initiatives and 20 per cent towards supply initiatives.

    I am also announcing a $35 million investment from the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy to deliver the first stage of the Roadmap.

    Yesterday, the Prime Minister and I announced $13.5 million in new funding to Tourism New Zealand to uplift marketing activity in our core markets of Australia, the United States and China. 

    This investment is expected to generate around $300 million in spending and deliver an extra 72,000 international visitors to our shores.

    These are big numbers, but this is only part of the full $35 million package we’re unveiling today.

    I am also committing a further $6 million in new funding to uplift marketing activity in our emerging markets of India and Southeast Asia. 

    We know that Tourism New Zealand does an important job of marketing our country internationally, acting as the primary influence for approximately 14 per cent of international holiday visitors. I expect these investments to result in almost $360 million in incremental visitor spend in the economy.

    As I have been saying today, I see the business events sector as an incredibly valuable visitor market for supporting tourism growth.

    That is why I’m thrilled to announce I am committing an additional $3 million to Tourism New Zealand to boost business events attraction for a further year. This reinforces the important role that all of you play, and I am excited to see the positive outcomes from this investment. 

    I am also providing a $5 million boost for major events attraction. Major events drive economic benefits to New Zealand through international visitation and additional direct spend in the host region. 

    To complement these demand initiatives, I am investing in specific regional tourism infrastructure projects. 

    Last week, alongside Minister Potaka, I announced $4 million to improve visitor experiences along the Milford Road corridor. This investment is co-funded and will be delivered by the Department of Conservation.

    As you all know, Milford Sound Piopiotahi is one of our most iconic destinations and a huge drawcard for international visitors. This investment will support improved visitor experiences, infrastructure and reduced congestion. 

    We have an enormous opportunity on our hands. 

    Tourism has the potential to become our biggest export earner – we’ve done it before, and I believe we can do it again. It will take significant effort from us all, and the industry is united with shared purpose, aspirations, and enthusiasm.

    Achieving this will require action on the supply-side and I have asked my officials to begin a review of our tourism system to support this. This includes looking at issues surrounding our workforce:

    • data
    • infrastructure
    • funding
    • our regions and communities
    • aviation and cruise connectivity
    • and the overall visitor experience that we offer.

    We’re looking at what is working well and what do we need to change to ensure we are fit for the future.

    The key to our success will be working together.

    There is plenty of work to do and I am excited to continue working alongside the tourism and hospitality sector to build on the incredible foundations already in place. 

    Ladies and Gentlemen, the next few days are packed with opportunities. 

    New Zealand is open for business, and we welcome the opportunity to attract more business, exhibition and incentive travellers to New Zealand and grow our economy. Together, let’s maximise the value tourism brings to our beautiful country!

    Thank you again.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Local News – ELECTRIFY QUEENSTOWN TO RETURN IN 2026

    Source: Destination Queenstown

    Queenstown, New Zealand (10 June 2025) – Electrify Queenstown will return for a third year, following the huge success of the 2025 event which built strong momentum across the region.

    Now a cornerstone event in Queenstown’s calendar, Electrify Queenstown will take place from 17 – 19 May 2026, bringing together industry leaders, innovators, politicians and policymakers to share practical, cost-effective ways for businesses and households to electrify.

    Mat Woods, Chief Executive of Destination Queenstown and Lake Wānaka Tourism, says Electrify Queenstown is an event designed to turn ideas into action.

    “The energy this year was incredible with hundreds of people turning up to explore new and emerging technologies and future-focused solutions that not only save you money, but are good for the environment too.” he said.

    Attendees this year included local residents, visitors from around New Zealand, business owners, and change makers all eager to share the opportunities and challenges involved in a low-emissions future.

    The event featured bold announcements including plans for a low-emissions urban cable car network in Queenstown, the debut of new electric marine propulsion technology on Lake Whakatipu, and the release of Rewiring Aotearoa’s policy manifesto.

    Mike Casey, CEO of Rewiring Aotearoa, says there’s an exciting opportunity for New Zealand to lead the global energy transition, and events like Electrify Queenstown are helping educate kiwis about what’s possible.  

    “Aotearoa New Zealand is one of the few countries that has reached the electrification tipping point where it’s cheaper to electrify than use the fossil fuel alternative.

    “Whether you’re in it for the cost savings, lowering emissions, or energy security, we all win by going electric.” Mike said.

    Electrify Queenstown is proving to be a valuable platform for businesses and innovators to showcase energy-efficient solutions for homes and enterprises.  

    Sharon Fifield, CEO of Queenstown Business Chamber of Commerce, says it’s inspiring to see the momentum that’s been built since the inaugural one-day event in 2024.

    “Businesses are seeing the economic value of electrification alongside the environmental benefits, and there’s genuine enthusiasm to get involved and make a difference.” Sharon said.

    With strong interest from locals eager to lower their bills, become more energy efficient and resilient, organisers say Electrify Queenstown 2026 will again cater to everyone with even more opportunities for collaboration and innovation.

    “Each year, more people are seeing what’s possible through electrification and it’s exciting to think about what 2026 will bring.” Mat added.

    Electrify Queenstown 2026 will take place at the Queenstown Events Centre, Sunday 17 May – Tuesday 19 May 2026.

    The event supports Queenstown Lakes’ destination management plan and the broader goal of regenerative tourism and a carbon-zero visitor economy by 2030.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Education – Ara researchers publish groundbreaking work on AI in vocational education

    Source: Ara Institute of Canterbury

    Ara Institute of Canterbury is celebrating the publication of a pioneering book that reframes the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in education, shifting the narrative from plagiarism prevention to unlocking its potential for better learning.
    AI in Vocational Education and Training, published by Springer Nature, brought together a multi-disciplinary group of educators and researchers from Ara and Otago Polytechnic to critically explore the use of AI-supported learning across a wide range of vocational education contexts.
    The book was edited by Dr Selena Chan, an Ara Education Developer and previous Ako Aotearoa Prime Minister’s Supreme award winner for excellence in tertiary teaching. The collection presents practical insights and research-backed strategies for integrating teaching and learning to improve student success.
    Dr Chan said the book offers a roadmap for using AI tools effectively in vocational education and training (VET).
    “It also addresses ethical concerns, ensuring AI supports learning rather than undermine academic integrity,” she said.
    While the arrival of AI-powered natural language chatbots such as ChatGPT have sparked widespread debate about plagiarism, Dr Chan said the book offers an alternative perspective – highlighting AI’s enormous potential to support deeper engagement, critical thinking and independent analysis.
    Covering disciplines from construction management and graphic design to nursing and business, the book also highlights a significant project exploring how AI can be adapted to support neurodivergent learners.
    Dr Chan said educational developers, learning designers, tutors and senior students collaborated on designing AI-supported activities that not only engage learners but also foster independent analysis and strengthen practical application skills.
    She wanted to acknowledge the invaluable input of ākonga (students) in the research, “without whom the work would not have been completed,” as well as the support of Scott Klenner who is both Ara’s Research Manager and the Director of Rangahau, Research and Postgraduate Studies at Otago Polytechnic. “Scott’s guidance on inclusivity, rangahau (Māori research) and the incorporation of mātauranga Māori (Māori knowledge) in research design was invaluable.
    Klenner said the publication highlighted the two institutes’ leadership in applying AI to vocational education in New Zealand. He commended “our academics’ te hinengaro me te ringa mahi (thinking and work) for producing leading research, with an international publisher, exploring the most significant evolution of education this century”.
    With case studies, guidelines and frameworks, the book provides a valuable resource for educators and policymakers working to future-proof vocational education in Aotearoa New Zealand.
    Notes: 
    Dr Chan is an educational developer, academic capability leader and co-editor of the International Journal of Training Research. She has published extensively on vocational education and technology-enhanced learning and received the Ako Aotearoa Prime Minister’s Supreme Award in 2007 for teaching excellence.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • Making India stronger: PM Modi highlights 11 years of defence reforms, self-reliance

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday hailed the remarkable strides made by India’s defence sector over the past 11 years, underlining the twin focus on modernisation and self-reliance.

    In a post on X, the Prime Minister said, “The last 11 years have marked significant changes in our defence sector, with a clear focus on both modernisation and becoming self reliant when it comes to defence production. It is gladdening to see how the people of India have come together with the resolve of making India stronger! #11YearsOfRakshaShakti”.

    The post was part of a broader national campaign highlighting the transformation of India’s defence capabilities since 2014, coinciding with the beginning of PM Modi’s first term as the Prime Minister.

    From being heavily import-dependent to becoming a notable arms exporter, India’s defence journey has seen a fundamental shift.

    The Ministry of Defence and senior officials echoed the Prime Minister’s sentiment, praising the nation’s move towards indigenisation and innovation.

    The Ministry of Defence elaborated on this transformation in a post on X: “Over the past 11 years, under PM Narendra Modi’s visionary leadership, India’s defence sector has transformed from import-dependent to a global exporter, powered by Aatmanirbhar Bharat & Make In India. Indigenous innovations like Brahmos missile & advanced submarines have fortified our security and global standing. Defence exports now reach 100+ countries, marking a historic rise in self-reliance. As we celebrate 11 Years Of Raksha Shakti, we salute the strides toward a safer, stronger India.”

    Key milestones during this period include the record growth in defence exports, which have surpassed Rs 21,000 crore in recent years, the successful deployment of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, the commissioning of indigenous aircraft carriers like INS Vikrant, and the development of homegrown fighter jets like the HAL Tejas.

    The celebration of ’11 Years of Raksha Shakti’ underscores the government’s emphasis on reducing dependency on foreign suppliers and promoting indigenous defence production under flagship initiatives like Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India.

    (With inputs from IANS)

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Greens denounce Labour’s Spending Review as ‘spreadsheet Britain’ and call for a ‘hopeful vision for a better future’  

    Source: Green Party of England and Wales

    Ahead of Wednesday’s Spending Review, Adrian Ramsay MP, co-leader of the Green Party, accused the government of lacking a vision for a better future. He said: “This Spending Review shows that the government knows the cost of everything but the value of nothing.” 

    He went on to say: 

    “This looks like a spreadsheet Britain approach, leading the country into deliberate decline, when we need a hopeful vision for a better future.  

    “Austerity has meant our hospitals, schools and transport services have sustained real terms budget cuts, and long-term capital investment will not deliver fast enough to impact people’s lives. Millions of people are facing financial, health and housing insecurity right now. The Spending Review will fail those children stuck in poverty today – children who need warm homes and enough to eat.” 

    “We need to invest in a more secure future for everyone. Real security comes from people feeling warm and comfortable in their homes, valued in their communities and secure in the knowledge that climate action will safeguard the future for their children and grandchildren.” 

    Ramsay said there should be a much stronger focus on building, providing and retrofitting social homes. He said: 

    “Rather than turning the screw further on councils which are already on their knees, the Chancellor must commit the billions that councils need to buy, build and design social housing instead of offering a blank cheque to developers to build executive homes that few can afford.  

    “We know this is what people want. A new YouGov survey commissioned by the Greens has found that people are three times more likely to want the Government to build more social housing than encouraging developers to build more private homes.” 

    Ramsay also repeated calls for a fairer tax system to raise money and reverse chronic underspending in public services.    

    “A wealth tax of 1% on assets over £10 million and 2% on assets above £1 billion could raise £24 billion a year. Cutting support to disabled people while billionaires are gaining £35 million a day in wealth is indefensible. We are one of the wealthiest countries in the world – it’s time the super-rich paid up and for Labour to start taxing wealth fairly. 

    Adrian Ramsay MP concluded: 

    “From child poverty to climate breakdown, the challenges we face are not small – and neither should be our response. People want a government that invests in them, in their homes, in their services, in building a resilient future. Cuts don’t create hope. Investment does. We need public services that are fit for purpose, homes that are warm and affordable, and a tax system that serves the many, not the wealthy few.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Australia should stand up for our feta and prosecco in trade talks with the EU

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Hazel Moir, Honarary Associate Professor; economics of patents, geographical indications and other “IP”; trade treaties, Australian National University

    TY Lim/Shutterstock

    Trade Minister Don Farrell has confirmed Australia and the European Union will restart negotiations for a free trade agreement immediately. Two years ago, Australia walked away over a disappointing market access offer for our beef, sheep, dairy and sugar exporters.

    But with US President Donald Trump’s unilateral tariff increases, the world has changed. The chances of successfully completing the negotiations with the EU on increasing access for some agricultural products and cutting red tape now seem good.

    Australia wants improved access for its beef and lamb exports to Europe, but European farmers have significant political influence. The 2023 offer from the EU would have accounted for just 0.3% of its agricultural imports. It was also less than that offered to other trading partners.

    Another major stumbling block was the EU’s demand that Australia give up naming rights for hundreds of food and drink products.

    The EU wants Australia to adopt its system of regulating names for regional food and spirit specialties. If accepted, this could negatively impact on consumers, Australian dairies and boutique spirit makers.

    What is the EU asking for?

    The EU wants Australia to adopt its so-called “geographical indications” approach to protect the names of European products. It has listed 170 food names and 236 spirit names for Australia to give up.

    The EU argues Australia should allow only Greek feta to be sold here; currently Australian, Greek, Danish and Bulgarian feta are all sold in our shops. It also wants the names prosecco and parmesan reserved for European producers.

    Australia approaches food product labels differently, mainly through consumer protection laws. Further, there is little culture of fraud here, while the European system was originally introduced for wines because of widespread fraud, before it spread to food products.

    Problems arise with the specific food and spirit names the EU wants reserved for their producers. Australia argues these are common names for the food items and we shouldn’t lose access to them.

    Intellectual property privileges limit what other producers can do. So there is always a process to allow other parties to object. Our trade agreements also provide for objections processes.

    In 2019, the Australian government called for producers to raise any objections, but provided no follow-up and no process for the resolution of objections. Producers have received no feedback. This denies those affected by the European naming demands access to due process of law.

    The problem with parmesan

    The worst problems are with the common names that, in Australia, are recognised as generic product names.

    Prosecco grapes growing in the Veneto region of Italy. The EU wants to restrict use of the name prosecco.
    StevanZZ/Shutterstock

    The EU does recognise many food names as common names, such as gouda, brie, edam and camembert cheese. But they want Australia to declare that feta, parmesan and prosecco are not common names in Australia. Australian producers, retailers and consumers would disagree.

    The Europeans argue parmesan is a translation of its geographical indication, Parmigiano Reggiano. It refuses to accept that in Australia consumers recognise parmesan as the common name for a hard cheese while Parmigiano Reggiano is an Italian cheese.

    In 2024, the Singapore Court of Appeal ruled parmesan is not a translation of Parmigiano Reggiano in Singapore and is available for use in Singapore as a common name. It is also clearly recognised as a common name in the EU-Korea trade agreement.

    Carve-outs for feta producers

    Feta is not a place name (it means slice). Canada solved the feta problem in its trade deal with Europe by accepting feta as a geographical indication, but grandfathered the right of all existing Canadian producers to continue to produce and sell feta. Vietnam achieved similar safeguards.

    Australia could ask for the same deal as provided to Canada, and this would ensure no negative impacts on producers or Australian consumers. To protect Australian consumers, who are currently also able to buy Danish and Bulgarian feta, Australia should ensure this exception includes companies exporting into Australia.

    Who can make prosecco?

    Prosecco is specified as a grape variety in the 1994 Australia-Europe bilateral wine treaty, and in Italy until 2009.

    Since then the Italian government took action to privatise the name prosecco and the EU endorsed prosecco as a proprietary name.

    However, all treaties with geographical indications provisions recognise that animal breed and plant variety names should remain free for common use. Our prosecco producers make wine with the prosecco grape, and should be allowed to label it as such. Just like pinot noir is labelled as pinot noir, the grape variety, and not Burgundy, the region.

    If the EU does not provide better access to its agricultural markets, and demands naming provisions which hurt Australian dairies and consumers, and our boutique spirits industry, we would be better to walk away from the proposed treaty.

    Hazel Moir is affiliated with the Centre for European Studies in the Research School of Social Sciences at the Australian National University. From 2017-2019 she was lead researcher in a co-funded ANU and EU’s Erasmus+ Programme study which involved a meta-analysis of the available empirical evidence on the impact of GIs on farmers and regional development. The project funding was purely for research costs and involved no personal remuneration.

    John Power worked for the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry from 2003 to 2019. He contributed to negotiations of the 2010 Australia-EU Trade in Wine Agreement and Australia’s FTAs. John led the amendments of the Wine Australia Act 2013 that introduced an objections process for wine GIs. In 2020 he joined the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade as a GI specialist negotiator.

    – ref. Australia should stand up for our feta and prosecco in trade talks with the EU – https://theconversation.com/australia-should-stand-up-for-our-feta-and-prosecco-in-trade-talks-with-the-eu-258392

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI China: New ultra-high voltage project begins operation to deliver power from Xinjiang to Chongqing

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

    New ultra-high voltage project begins operation to deliver power from Xinjiang to Chongqing

    BEIJING, June 10 — The State Grid Corporation of China on Tuesday announced the operation of the ±800 kV ultra-high voltage direct current transmission project linking eastern Xinjiang’s Hami with southwest China’s Chongqing Municipality.

    This marks China’s third major project to transmit electricity from the energy-rich Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region to other parts of the country.

    The transmission line spans 2,260 kilometers and is supported by 14.2 million kilowatts of installed power capacity, including 10.2 million kilowatts from wind, solar photovoltaic, and solar thermal sources. New energy accounts for over 70 percent of the total capacity.

    Xinjiang serves as a key sending hub in China’s west-to-east power transmission program. The new line is expected to deliver more than 36 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity annually to Chongqing’s power load center, significantly enhancing the municipality’s energy supply capacity.

    It is also expected to contribute to economic development in both Xinjiang and Chongqing, enhance regional coordinated development, facilitate rural revitalization, and help improve public welfare, the corporation said.

    The corporation now operates the world’s largest ultra-high-voltage transmission network, providing strong support for ensuring a secure and reliable power supply and advancing green, low-carbon development.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Finke Desert Race 2025

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Members of the Northern Territory Police Force were generally pleased with the behaviour of attendees at the Finke Desert Race over the long weekend. Police were deployed across the weekend to support event officials and other emergency services in maintaining spectator and competitor safety.

    The Territory Road Policing Division, comprised of members from both Darwin and Southern Traffic Operations, achieved the following results:

    • 2629 negative alcohol breath tests
    • 13 positive alcohol breath tests
    • 42 negative drug tests
    • 10 positive drug tests
    • 7 arrests
    • 8 notices to appear issued
    • 254 traffic infringement notices issued

    Police would like to thank road users for their cooperation and understanding.

    Around 12:50pm on Monday 9 June, police arrested a 60-year-old man who had allegedly been previously instructed by event officials to move at least 30-metres away from the racetrack. He was later sighted by police within 30-metres of the track within a clearly marked area. He subsequently was issued a Notice to Appear in the Alice Springs Local Court and directed not to return to the event area.

    Superintendent Michael Budge said, “Overall, we were happy with the conduct of attendees and hope everyone enjoyed the long weekend.

    “Police would like to remind the public of drone regulations at events that involve helicopters or other aircraft.

    “Throughout the event, police and officials responded to multiple reports of drones being operated within the airspace surrounding the course. Due to the nature of the event, helicopters are required to fly at low altitudes and in close proximity to the track to conduct safety sweeps and facilitate medical evacuations.

    “The presence of drones in this environment poses a serious collision risk to aircraft and their occupants, and we’re thankful that no such incident occurred.”

    For more information on drone regulations, visit: https://www.casa.gov.au/knowyourdrone/drone-rules.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Result of the Daily Variable Rate Repo (VRR) auction held on June 10, 2025

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    Tenor 1-day
    Notified Amount (in ₹ crore) 25,000
    Total amount of bids received (in ₹ crore) 3,853
    Amount allotted (in ₹ crore) 3,853
    Cut off Rate (%) 5.51
    Weighted Average Rate (%) 5.51
    Partial Allotment Percentage of bids received at cut off rate (%) NA

    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    

    Press Release: 2025-2026/518

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Symposium on “One State – Two Systems” Held in Beijing

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, June 10 (Xinhua) — An academic symposium on “one country, two systems” was held in Beijing on Monday to mark the fifth anniversary of the enactment of the Law on Safeguarding National Security in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR).

    The event was attended by about 100 guests, experts and scholars from mainland China, Hong Kong and Macao Special Administrative Regions, as well as 11 countries including the UK, Portugal and Malaysia.

    The symposium, hosted by the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, included sub-forums on topics such as the theory and practice of national security legislation, national security and economic development, and national security and social governance.

    The guests and scholars present agreed that the Law on Safeguarding National Security in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region has played a comprehensive and fundamental role in curbing unrest in Hong Kong, ensuring the implementation of the “one country, two systems” policy, and promoting economic development and human rights protection in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.

    The Law on Safeguarding National Security in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region is a model for maintaining and improving the “one country, two systems” policy, said symposium participants, adding that the law has not only played a decisive role in restoring order and ensuring prosperity in Hong Kong, but has also served as a valuable guide for other countries and regions in shaping their legal systems related to national security.

    According to the guests and scholars present, the successful implementation of the “one state – two systems” course will open up new prospects for advancing global governance. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China’s Defense Ministry Warns DPP Administration That US Weapons Won’t Save Taiwan

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, June 10 (Xinhua) — Chinese Defense Ministry spokesperson Jiang Bin on Monday warned Taiwan’s Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) administration that U.S. weapons will not save them and seeking outside help to support “Taiwan independence” is doomed to fail.

    Jiang Bin made this comment at the request of journalists on reports that the United States is supplying Taiwan with a new batch of M1A2 tanks and plans to increase arms sales to Taiwan over the next four years.

    The reporters’ request also cited a former US military official as saying there were about 500 American troops in Taiwan, more than ten times the number previously released by the US Congress.

    “This is further convincing evidence that the US side and the separatist forces advocating ‘Taiwan independence’ are violating China’s core interests, trying to change the status quo in the Taiwan Strait region and promote escalation of tensions in the region,” Jiang Bin said.

    The Taiwan issue lies at the core of China’s core interests and is the first red line in Sino-US relations that must not be crossed, he confirmed.

    “We urge the American side to stop its military collusion with Taiwan in any form. Otherwise, it will bring trouble upon itself, and what it gains will not compensate for what it loses,” Jiang Bin said.

    The People’s Liberation Army will continue to strengthen its military training and combat readiness and comprehensively enhance its ability to win the war, Jiang Bin stressed, adding that China will take resolute measures to defeat secessionist activities aimed at achieving “Taiwan independence” and thwart plans of external interference. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The number of China-Europe freight trains sent from China has exceeded 110 thousand.

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    JINAN, June 10 (Xinhua) — The 110,000th freight train to operate on the China-Europe international freight train route departed from Qingdao in east China’s Shandong Province on Tuesday morning, marking a milestone in the high-quality development of the railway service.

    The train, loaded with 55 containers of home appliances worth nearly 20 million yuan (about $2.78 million), including LCD monitors and refrigerators, will leave China through the Ereen Port in Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, the largest land border crossing on the China-Mongolia border, and is expected to arrive in Europe in 17 days, according to Gao Yitian, an employee of the Jiaozhou branch of the Jinan Railway Logistics Center.

    Over the past decade, China-Europe freight rail services have expanded significantly, with not only the number of trains leaving China increasing but also the range of goods carried expanding, Gao Yitian said, adding that the international logistics network in Shandong not only transports Chinese export products but also cross-border goods from Japan, the Republic of Korea and Southeast Asian countries.

    “I believe these trains will continue to deliver more Made in China products while providing better services to Belt and Road countries and their people,” Gao Yitian added.

    Currently, China-Europe routes link 128 Chinese cities with 229 cities in 26 European countries and more than 100 cities in 11 Asian countries. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Lightning: Xi Jinping Calls on China, South Korea to Jointly Safeguard Multilateralism, Free Trade, and Ensure Stability and Smooth Operation of Global Industrial and Supply Chains

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    Xinhua | 10. 06. 2025

    Key words: China,Republic of Korea

    Source: Xinhua

    Flash: Xi Jinping Calls on China, South Korea to Jointly Safeguard Multilateralism, Free Trade, and Ensure Stability and Smoothness of Global Industrial and Supply Chains Flash: Xi Jinping Calls on China, South Korea to Jointly Safeguard Multilateralism, Free Trade, and Ensure Stability and Smoothness of Global Industrial and Supply Chains

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Urgent: China, ROK Should Elevate Strategic Cooperation and Partnership to Higher Level – Xi Jinping

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, June 10 (Xinhua) — Chinese President Xi Jinping said Tuesday that China and the Republic of Korea (ROK) need to take their strategic partnership to a higher level.

    Xi Jinping made the statement during telephone talks with South Korean President Lee Jae-myung.

    China and the ROK should bring more certainty to the regional and international situation, he said, adding that the two countries should jointly safeguard multilateralism and free trade, and ensure the stability and smoothness of global and regional supply chains. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: ‘Above our expectations’ – Aucklanders borrow millions of library books over past year

    Source: Auckland Council

    Auckland Council Libraries are leading the way lifting literacy across Tāmaki Makaurau with a stack of activities, support and smart technology.

    With 56 local libraries across the Auckland region, a fleet of mobile libraries on the road and borrowing available online, Aucklanders have access to the largest public library network in Australasia.

    Auckland Council Libraries carry a whopping 3.4 million items available to borrow or view for free. Anyone with a library card can access the collection, thanks to a network of specialist teams and technology constantly moving items around the region on request. 

    Head of Library and Learning Services Catherine Leonard says customer demand for requests across the collection is strong, with between 12,000 to 15,000 items moving through the central book sorting system each day.

    “On top of that, we’ve had an incredible 14 million items borrowed in total over 12 months and our visitor numbers have climbed to 6.75 million so far this financial year, which is well above our expectations,” Catherine says.

    E-books continue to gain popularity with 5 million checkouts in 2024, which places Auckland Council Libraries in the top ten eLending libraries worldwide.

    On top of the borrowing figures, Catherine says a key indicator that things are going well for regional library services is the customer feedback they receive. Over the past two years, customer satisfaction has consistently hit 90 per cent or higher and is currently sitting at 93 per cent.

    To keep the momentum going, Auckland Council Libraries team has adopted a new three-year service plan (2025-2028), which includes key priorities to inspire creativity, learning and discovery.

    This ensures our region-wide focus consistently supports those aspects of community wellbeing that libraries uniquely hold, says Catherine.

    Every day, Auckland Council librarians support literacy by encouraging reading. They work hard to make sure everyone has access to the safe and inclusive environments of libraries and the wide array of resources they hold.

    Other priorities include improving participation, championing Mātauranga Māori and celebrating cultural identity.

    An innovative content-creation and publishing programme launched in 2000 has led to the creation of 20 bilingual books to fill a gap in the collection for Māori and Pacific readers, 16 documentary films, 10 podcasts and a range of other material including virtual reality content.

    Catherine says demand for free digital equipment and library programmes continues to grow. All Aucklanders have unlimited access to public computers, internet, printing and Wi-Fi when visiting their local libraries.

    For researchers, Auckland Central City Library contains a treasure trove of resources with one of the largest collections of heritage and research materials in the country. Access to rare and precious taonga (manuscripts, historical maps, photographs, rare books) can be easily arranged.

    “Our staff are always looking for new ideas and developments in libraries to improve and engage new customers. Responding to feedback continues to be a priority for us, and the hugely-popular Bestie collection celebrating local authors is an example of this. We have just launched a new board game collection and plans for a Bestie collection for children are on track with the collection set to be launched towards the end of the year,” she adds.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –