NewzIntel.com

Category: AM-NC

  • MIL-OSI China: CPC delegation attends int’l conference of Asian political parties

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

    A delegation of the Communist Party of China (CPC), led by Sun Haiyan, vice minister of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee, visited Russia from Wednesday to Friday.

    During the visit, the delegation attended the meeting of the Standing Committee of the International Conference of Asian Political Parties and participated in a forum on Eurasian cooperation hosted by the United Russia party.

    Sun met with Vladimir Yakushev, secretary of the United Russia’s General Council. The two sides exchanged views on strengthening exchanges between the ruling parties of China and Russia and jointly implementing the important consensus reached by the two countries’ leaders.

    Sun also briefed Yakushev on the key messages of the Central Conference on Work Relating to Foreign Affairs with Neighboring Countries.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: US begins additional vetting for anyone seeking visa to travel to Harvard

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

    This photo taken on May 24, 2025 shows a view of the Harvard University campus in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the United States. [Photo/Xinhua]

    The U.S. Department of State on Friday ordered all U.S. embassies and consulates worldwide to “immediately begin additional vetting” for anyone seeking a visa to travel to Harvard University for “any purpose.”

    According to a diplomatic cable signed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and seen by local media, the “additional vetting” comprises “a complete screening of the online presence” of the applicants, and “such applicants include, but are not limited to prospective students, students, faculty, employees, contractors, guest speakers, and tourists.”

    The word “any” is underlined with bold font in the passage, while the cable states that the screening applies to “any” nonimmigrant visa applicant for “any” purpose.

    The cable instructs U.S. consular officers to have applicants who are otherwise eligible for a visa to set their social media accounts to public and then refer their cases to the Fraud Prevention Unit, who should conduct a comprehensive and thorough vetting of each such applicant, including social media activity … and more generally any online presence, to identify possible inadmissibilities.

    “The enhanced vetting measures described in this guidance aim at ensuring that consular officers can appropriately identify such visa applicants with histories of anti-Semitic harassment and violence, and to duly consider the visa eligibility under U.S. immigration law,” the cable states.

    The move is an escalation of the Trump administration’s feud with the Ivy League institution as it applies to more than just students, local media claimed. It will also serve as a pilot for expanded social media screening and vetting visa applicants across the board.

    The U.S. government on Tuesday suspended scheduling new interviews for student-visa applicants, saying it was considering requiring all foreign students applying to study in the United States to undergo social media vetting.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Murray on President Trump’s Budget Request 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray
    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, issued the following statement on the release of President Trump’s fiscal year 2026 budget request, which proposes slashing critical investments in non-defense programs that matter immensely to families and our country’s competitiveness and future.
    “It’s telling that President Trump has chosen to release his budget on a Friday night with no fanfare whatsoever. That’s probably because his budget would raise costs for working people, destroy basic services we all count on, and let our adversaries run circles around us—all while President Trump works to shower billionaires like himself in new tax breaks. 
    “For President Trump: it’s no billionaire left behind—and good luck to everyone else.  
    “This budget would outright eliminate programs that help working families afford the basics, gut investments in our students and schools, slash Pell Grants, and kick hundreds of thousands of Americans out of their homes. President Trump wants to let America’s small businesses go under, turn his back on our Tribes, and let trash pile up at our national parks.  
    “America’s research enterprise has long been the envy of the world, driving awe-inspiring technological progress and producing medical treatments and cures that have saved millions of lives. But President Trump is now proposing to destroy it by nearly halving the NIH’s budget and gutting all kinds of cutting-edge scientific research. You might as well gift wrap the future and hand it to China. 
    “President Trump apparently wants to make our communities less safe and healthy—because he is now asking Congress to gut funding to prevent violent crime, crack down on drug trafficking, tackle the opioids and mental health crises, and protect people’s health. 
    “This president wants to explode the debt and deficit by trillions of dollars to help line billionaires’ pockets while kicking millions off their health care and shredding investments that matter most to families and our country’s success.  
    “This is now the latest budget request in history, and remarkably, it is not even complete, because it still lacks all manner of essential details. 
    “This is a draconian proposal to hurt working people and our economy, and it is dead on arrival in Congress as long as I have anything to say about it. But this is just another reminder we need Republicans to join us to reject these reckless cuts, focus on the investments we actually need to make in our communities and security, and to finally force Trump to follow the law and end his devastating funding freeze.” 
    On President Trump’s proposed budget for Hanford, Howard Hanson Dam, and the Puget Sound Geographic Program, Senator Murray said:
    “The president’s proposed budget for Hanford is utterly unacceptable and will be going nowhere as far as I am concerned. Trump’s proposal for Hanford would force us to fall behind on the cleanup mission at a critical time, leaving key milestones unmet and raising the cost of the cleanup in the long run—not to mention increasing the safety and environmental risks for the Tri-Cities. Writing spending bills will be challenging, but I’ll be fighting to support Hanford, the workers powering the cleanup mission, and the Tri-Cities community. 
    “Similarly, it is disappointing that Trump is providing zero construction funding for the Howard Hanson Dam, a shovel-ready project that is absolutely critical to ensuring long-term water reliability for over one million people in Washington state and saving endangered salmon. Trump is also proposing a devastating $25 million cut to the Puget Sound Geographic Program, which will seriously set back progress to save our salmon and protect and restore our water quality and ecosystems throughout the Puget Sound. Trump’s budget request for Geographic Programs appears to continue a corrupt pattern of targeting blue states by ripping away their funding while sparing red states—this is a politically motivated abuse of power that should be deeply troubling to everyone. 
    “As I’ve said many times, President Trump’s shortsightedness is going to have severe consequences down the road. I will be tearing up Trump’s budget and working hard to help write a new one.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Jimmy Panetta Announces Six Local Nominees to the U. S. Service Academies

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif)

    Monterey, CA – U.S. Representative Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) announced his 2025 nominations of six outstanding high school students to the United States Service Academies.  These students have been selected to attend the nation’s prestigious military academies this fall, where they will begin their journey to become officers in the U.S. Armed Forces.  The nominees and their families and friends were recognized at a special reception on Sunday, May 18, 2025, at the Defense Language Institute Foreign Language Center (DLIFLC) in Monterey.

    “These students are stepping forward and stepping up to lead at a time when we need young men and women at the forefront of our defense of democracy,” said Rep. Panetta.  “Few choices are as selfless and courageous as choosing to serve our nation, and these exceptional young people have each raised their hands to do so on behalf of our community and country.  It is one of my highest honors to nominate these leaders who fully comprehend our obligation to our democracy and embody the values and strength of California’s 19th Congressional District, knowing they will help defend and strengthen our country.”

    Students seeking appointment to a U.S. service academy must receive a formal nomination from a Member of Congress, a U.S. Senator, or the Vice President.  Applicants undergo a rigorous process including submission of academic records, personal essays, letters of recommendation, and a formal interview with a panel of community leaders and veterans.  The nomination panel provides recommendations for Rep. Panetta to make his final selections.

    Rep. Panetta’s office nominates students to the United States Naval Academy, United States Military Academy at West Point, United States Air Force Academy, and the United States Merchant Marine Academy.  High school seniors in California’s 19th Congressional District interested in a 2026 nomination are encouraged to apply online and contact Rep. Panetta’s district office at 831-424-2229 with any questions.

    Rep. Panetta’s 2025 nominees are:

    United States Naval Academy

    • Christina Doan, Evergreen Valley High School

    United States Military Academy, West Point

    • Jacob Yu, Leland High School
    • James Kim, Santa Teresa High School

    United States Air Force Academy

    • Gabriel Dobson, Pacific Collegiate School
    • Spencer Sanders, Templeton High School

    United States Merchant Marine Academy

    • Cyrus Wong, Lynbrook High School

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Panetta Reintroduces Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Spur Plant Biostimulant Research and Development

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif)

    Monterey, CA – United States Representatives Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) and Jim Baird (IN-04) reintroduced the Plant Biostimulant Act.  This legislation would create a uniform federal definition for plant biostimulants, establish a consistent regulatory pathway to market, and promote additional research into the benefits of biostimulant products on soil health and crop production.  Currently, there is no clear or consistent federal framework to govern the use and approval of plant biostimulants, which creates uncertainty for producers and limits the adoption of these innovative tools.  The updated legislation would address this gap through federal guidance from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).  Companion legislation was introduced in the Senate by Senators Alex Padilla (D-CA) and Roger Marshall (R-KS).

    Plant biostimulants are substances or microorganisms applied to plants or soils to enhance natural processes, improve nutrient uptake, increase tolerance to environmental stress, and boost overall plant health and crop yield.  These products also show promise for improving sustainability through practices like carbon sequestration and water quality improvement.

    “The lack of a standard regulatory definition or pathway to market for plant biostimulants makes it harder for producers to access this sustainable and effective technology,” said Rep. Panetta.  “By reintroducing this bipartisan bill, we’re pushing for the clarity and federal coordination needed to encourage the adoption of biostimulants.  Increasing access to these products helps our farmers improve crop yields, protect our environment, and maintain U.S. leadership in sustainable agriculture.”

    “Our farmers and ranchers deserve a regulatory process that provides a clear path for their products to go to market, especially as new technologies become available for famers and producers to improve the efficiency, productivity, and sustainability of our agriculture industry,” said Rep. Baird.  “Biostimulants have the significant potential benefits for producers and their sustainability footprint.  Defining these products and creating a consistent process is an important step in giving farmers better access to plant biostimulants and other new technologies to ensure our agriculture sector can thrive.”

    “California’s agriculture industry is essential to our national economy and puts food on the table for families across the country,” said Senator Padilla.  “As we make our agriculture sector more sustainable, our evolving practices must be properly implemented to ensure their efficacy and safety.  Oversight and regulatory standards for plant biostimulants, which could replace or reduce the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, are critical to maintain California’s leadership at the forefront of this bio-based agricultural technology.”

    “Innovation is the cornerstone of American agriculture. By creating pathways to approve new agronomic tools like plant biostimulants, our nation’s farmers are able to produce more food with less crop protection tools and fertilizers,” said Senator Marshall.  “I am proud to lead this bipartisan effort with Senator Padilla and Representatives Baird and Panetta to help make the world cleaner, safer, and healthier than we found it.” 

    The Plant Biostimulant Act would:

    • Amend the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) to define plant biostimulants;
    • Direct the EPA to revise the Code of Federal Regulations to reflect the new definition;
    • Require the USDA to study the contributions of plant biostimulants to soil health and sustainability.

    The Plant Biostimulant Act is endorsed by; Agriculture Retailers Association (ARA), American Seed Trade Association (ASTA), Biological Products Industry Alliance (BPIA), Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO), Council of Producers and Distributors of Agrotechnology (CPDA), CropLife America (CLA), The Fertilizer Institute Biostimulant Council, Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA), Humic Products Trade Association (HPTA), International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA), National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP), RISE (Responsible Industry for a Sound Environment), Southern Crop Production Association (SCPA), and Western Growers.

    “Reintroducing the Plant Biostimulant Act is a vital step forward, and we applaud Representatives Jimmy Panetta and Jim Baird for their leadership,” said Keith Jones, Executive Director of the Biological Products Industry Alliance (BPIA).  “This bipartisan bill is critically important to the future of the biostimulant industry, as it will codify a federal definition for plant biostimulants and clarify the path to market for these innovative products.  By establishing a clear regulatory framework, the legislation will drive investment in U.S.-led agricultural innovation and enhance American competitiveness in the global biological marketplace.  BPIA looks forward to working with Congress to see this bill signed into law.”

    “The Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO) strongly supports the reintroduction of the Plant Biostimulants Act, and we thank Reps. Panetta and Baird for their continued bipartisan leadership on this important issue.  This crucial legislation will provide a clear regulatory pathway for innovative agricultural technologies, enhancing efficiency and productivity in American agriculture and ensuring food security for our nation.  By promoting plant biostimulants, we can improve soil health, water quality, and crop resilience, while also reducing farmers’ reliance on costly pesticides and fertilizers.  BIO is committed to advancing cutting-edge bio-based solutions for our farmers and plant producers, securing a productive yet sustainable future for our agricultural community and our planet,” said Sylvia Wulf, Interim Head of the Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO) Ag & Environment Center of Excellence

    “The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) thanks Reps. Panetta and Baird for reintroducing this important legislation. This bill provides a critical definition for plant biostimulants which will help states establish a clear path to market for these important products and technologies, critical to a variety of growers,” said Corey Rosenbusch, President and CEO of the Fertilizer Institute.

    “CropLife America (CLA) appreciates Representatives Jimmy Panetta (D-CA) and Jim Baird (R-IN) for reintroducing the Plant Biostimulant Act.  By establishing a federal definition for plant biostimulants and clarifying their pathway to market, this legislation will facilitate farmers’ access to these innovative products and drive further research and development. CLA looks forward to working with Congress on this important legislation,” said Alexandra Dunn, President and CEO of CLA.  

    “I’d like to thank Congressmen Panetta and Baird for reintroducing the “Plant Biostimulant Act,” said Megan Provost, President of RISE (Responsible Industry for a Sound Environment). “Plant biostimulants help homeowners, landscape professionals and golf course superintendents provide healthy greenspaces that benefit us all. This legislation will help to clarify how they are defined and ensure access to these valuable products.”

    “The Humic Products Trade Association sincerely thanks Representatives Panetta and Baird for reintroducing the Plant Biostimulant Act,” said Russell Taylor, President, Humic Products Trade Association.  “This legislation updates FIFRA to match today’s reality: farmers need crop inputs that help build soil resilience, optimize nutrient use, and safeguard water. By defining plant biostimulants outside the pesticide framework, Congress will give states—and innovators—the regulatory clarity needed to foster this growing product category. HPTA supports this bill because it equips growers with modern, science-backed tools, which ultimately help deliver safe, sustainable food to consumers.”

    “I’d like to thank Congressmen Panetta and Baird for reintroducing the “Plant Biostimulant Act,” said Rhett Evans, CEO of the Golf Courses Superintendents Association of America.  “Plant biostimulants help golf course superintendents provide healthy greenspaces that benefit everyone.  This legislation will help ensure golf’s access to this valuable product.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Panetta Reintroduces Bipartisan Legislation to Combat Abuse of “Gas Station Heroin” Following FDA Warnings

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif)

    Monterey, CA – United States Representative Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) reintroduced bipartisan legislation with Rep. August Pfluger (TX-11) to crack down on the unregulated sale and abuse of tianeptine, a dangerous substance often referred to as “gas station heroin.”  The Scheduling Tianeptine and Analogues Now to Defend Against Emerging Opioids Act (STAND Against Emerging Opioids Act) would classify tianeptine and its analogues as Schedule III substances under the Controlled Substances Act, making it illegal to sell them without a prescription.

    Tianeptine is not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for any medical use in the United States. It produces opioid-like effects by acting on mu-opioid receptors, leading to euphoria, dependence, withdrawal symptoms, and potentially fatal overdoses. Despite this, it remains widely available at gas stations, convenience stores, smoke shops, and online under brand names like Tianaa, Zaza, Neptune’s Fix, Pegasus, and TD Red.

    In response to a growing number of adverse events, including reports of agitation, respiratory depression, seizures, coma, and death, the FDA has renewed its warnings about the dangers of tianeptine.  A recent outbreak of illnesses in New Jersey linked to Neptune’s Fix , a product found to contain both tianeptine and synthetic cannabinoids,  underscores the urgent need for federal action.

    “Tianeptine is a dangerous, addictive substance being sold on store shelves right next to energy drinks and snacks.  The FDA has been clear about the health risks, but the reality is that tianeptine remains widely accessible and largely unregulated,” said Rep. Panetta.  “Our bipartisan STAND Against Emerging Opioids Act would give federal law enforcement the tools they need to crack down on the illicit sale of tianeptine, help prevent its abuse, and protect our communities.  This is exactly the kind of proactive step we need to stay ahead of evolving public health threats.”

    “The growing availability of tianeptine—a dangerous, opioid-like drug—is deeply concerning and putting lives at risk,” said Rep. Pfluger.   “I am proud to join Congressman Jimmy Panetta on bipartisan legislation to move tianeptine to Schedule III, a necessary step to limit its access and curb misuse.  By backing state-level efforts and putting public health first, we’re taking concrete action to confront the opioid epidemic and ensure safer communities.”

    The STAND Against Emerging Opioids Act would:

    • Schedule tianeptine and its analogues as Schedule III substances under federal law.
    • Maintain FDA’s authority to approve legitimate medical uses in the future.
    • Help close regulatory loopholes and prevent widespread abuse of unapproved and dangerous substances.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatal crash: Northland

    Source: New Zealand Police

    One person has died following a serious crash in Northland this morning.

    At around midnight emergency services were called to a two-vehicle crash on State Highway 1, near Waiomio, south of Kawakawa.

    Sadly, one person died at the scene. Our thoughts are with their family at this difficult time.

    The Serious Crash Unit has conducted a scene examination and the road is now open.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: New Hampshire Congressional Delegation Honors Fallen Service Members at Memorial Day Ceremony

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Maggie Hassan
    (Boscawen, NH) – U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and U.S. Representatives Chris Pappas (NH-01) and Maggie Goodlander (NH-02) delivered remarks at a Memorial Day event at the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery to honor the brave service members who gave their lives for our country. Photos from today’s event can be found here.
    “It was an honor to be at the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery today to pay tribute to the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice defending our security and freedom,” said Senator Shaheen. “Generations of Granite Staters have answered the call to serve, and I join with everyone across our state in remembering our fallen heroes.”
    “I was honored to attend this morning’s Memorial Day ceremony at the New Hampshire Veterans Cemetery honoring the heroes who gave up everything so that others could live in freedom,” said Senator Hassan. “We owe service members – both those who are with us and those who we have lost – our freedom and our very way of life. We each must live our lives honoring what they died for, defending our Live Free or Die values and fighting for freedom at home and abroad.”
    “Today at the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery, we paused to honor and pay our respects to all the brave service members who lost their lives defending our country since its founding,” said Congressman Pappas. “Every fallen Soldier, Sailor, Airman, and Marine is forever part of our American family, and we must never waiver in honoring them and their families. It is a tremendous price paid by some so that our freedoms and way of life can be enjoyed by all. Thank you to the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery, NH DAV, and all of the partners who helped host this important event.”
    “America is the land of the free because of the brave men and women who gave their lives in service of the American people — past, present, and future,” said Congresswoman Maggie Goodlander. “Thank you to New Hampshire Disabled American Veterans for bringing together fellow citizens — veterans, military families, servicemembers —  from across New Hampshire today on the hallowed ground of our State Veterans Cemetery in Boscawen to honor truly honorable Americans: our fallen heroes.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Buffalo man going to prison for making purchases on illicit online marketplace and cocaine charge

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BUFFALO, N.Y. — U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Corey Robert Dodge a/k/a Cakesbaylor, 43, of Buffalo, NY, who was convicted of possessing 15 or more unauthorized access devices with intent to defraud and possession with intent to distribute cocaine, was sentenced to serve 41 months in prison by U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr. In addition, Dodge was ordered to forfeit $27,000, which represented proceeds of his criminal activities.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles M. Kruly, who handled the case, stated that since August 2018, the FBI has been investigating an illicit online marketplace known as Genesis Market, whose operators compile stolen data, such as computer and mobile device identifiers, email addresses, usernames, and passwords, from malware-infected computers around the globe and package it for sale on the market. Purchases made through Genesis Market are conducted using virtual currency, such as bitcoin.

    Between March 26, 2020, and May 30, 2021, Dodge purchased 14 packages on Genesis Market, that included stolen account credentials. The stolen credentials included accounts for Paypal, Tracfone, eBay, Amazon, FedEx, Etsy, Walmart, Chase, Venmo, and eTrade. In addition, on April 3, 2023, the FBI executed a search warrant at Dodge’s residence to search for evidence related to his use of Genesis Marketplace. During the search, the FBI also found and seized quantities of fentanyl, cocaine, MDMA, ketamine, and drug paraphernalia.

    The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, and the Buffalo Police Department, under the direction of Commissioner Alphonso Wright.

    # # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Multinational forces kick off KAMANDAG 9 in the Philippines

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    FORT BONIFACIO, MANILA, Philippines — Philippine, U.S., Japan, Korean and United Kingdom military leaders launched KAMANDAG 9 on Monday with an opening ceremony hosted at Marine Barracks Rudiardo Brown, marking the official start of the ninth iteration of the Kaagapay ng mga Mandirigma ng Dagat (“Cooperation of Warriors of the Sea”) exercise.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Joint Region Marianas emphasizes continuity of operations, strong partnerships during change of command ceremony

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    GUAM — Commander, Joint Region Marianas U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Brent DeVore transferred command of JRM to U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Brett Mietus during a change of command ceremony at Department of Defense Education Activity Guam High School in Agana Heights, Guam, May 29.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SFST promotes HK’s measures for integrating traditional and digital finance at Web Summit Vancouver (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    SFST promotes HK’s measures for integrating traditional and digital finance at Web Summit Vancouver  
    The Web Summit, a mega event for the tech sector, attracted over 10 000 tech investors, entrepreneurs and industry leaders across the world each time it is hosted. This is the first time the Summit has been held in Vancouver. Mr Hui engaged in a panel discussion session titled “Local to global: Strategies for tech success”, which was joined by the Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation of the Province of British Columbia, Canada, Ms Diana Gibson. They had an illuminating discussion on the various approaches taken in building dynamic fintech economies, ranging from developing talent, attracting investment to creating opportunities.
     
    Mr Hui said that as one of the top three international financial centres and a leading international green finance hub, Hong Kong is pioneering the integration of traditional and digital finance with a view to strengthening its position as Asia’s gateway for financial innovation. The city is striving to accelerate green and sustainable finance and virtual asset development, with a view to making them key components of the diversified financial value chain. The Hong Kong Monetary Authority has already commenced sandbox experimentation of Project Ensemble, which is a new wholesale central bank digital currency project to support the development of the tokenisation market in Hong Kong.
     
          The fintech ecosystem is thriving in Hong Kong, with around 1 100 fintech companies and start-ups, including 10 licensed virtual asset trading platforms, eight digital banks and four virtual insurers. Pledged to continue playing a leading role in facilitating green and sustainable financing and investment for the global agenda of green transition, Hong Kong issued a policy statement last October to set out its policy stance and approach on the responsible application of artificial intelligence in the financial market. The Government also launched a roadmap last December to require publicly accountable entities (PAEs) to adopt the International Financial Reporting Standards – Sustainability Disclosure Standards (ISSB Standards) and to provide a well-defined pathway for large PAEs to fully adopt the ISSB Standards no later than 2028. This brings Hong Kong among the first jurisdictions to align its local requirements with ISSB Standards. As an initial step, the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited has already started to implement in phases new climate disclosure requirements to reflect the ISSB Standard No. 2: Climate-related Disclosures since this January.
     
    Mr Hui also updated the Summit on the latest passage of legislation last week establishing a licensing regime for fiat-referenced stablecoins issuers in Hong Kong, as a way to further enhance Hong Kong’s regulatory framework on virtual asset activities for supporting the healthy, responsible and sustainable development of Hong Kong’s stablecoin and the broader digital asset ecosystem. Hong Kong is among the first batch of regions to have introduced stablecoin legislation and strives to fully implement the licensing regime within this year, with a view to approving the first batch of licences as soon as practicable.
     
    Looking forward, Hong Kong will soon promulgate a second policy statement on the development of virtual assets to explore the convergence of traditional finance and virtual assets. A consultation on the licensing regimes for virtual asset over-the-counter trading services and custodian services will also be conducted within this year.
     
    During his stay at the Summit, Mr Hui visited exhibition booths manned by Hong Kong delegates. He was pleased to learn that the Hong Kong delegates received encouraging feedback over the past few days, reflecting the world-class standard of Hong Kong fintech talent and their appeal to investors.
     
         In the afternoon, Mr Hui paid a courtesy call to the Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Vancouver, Mr Yang Shu. Mr Yang said Hong Kong has always been a window of the country to the world and will continue to be. He encouraged Hong Kong to keep up with its work in deepening international exchanges and co-operation.
     
    Before concluding his visit to Canada, Mr Hui visited Bank of Montreal and met with the Senior Vice President & Head, Mid-Market, Commercial Bank, Mr Andrew Hung, and Senior Vice President & Head, BC & Yukon, Mr Greg Vriend. He told them that in a world full of geopolitical uncertainties, Hong Kong’s financial market is emerging as a risk-off haven for investors and attracting more investments owing to its connectivity with the Mainland and the world at large, bringing greater prospects for the banking sector and different financial areas.
     
    Mr Hui will return to Hong Kong in the early hours of May 31 (Vancouver time).
    Issued at HKT 9:40

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Coinciding with Older Americans Month, Leaders of House Democratic Task Force on Aging & Families Introduce Older American Bill of Rights

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky (9th District of Illinois)

    Full Text of Resolution (PDF)

    WASHINGTON – Today, coinciding with Older Americans Month, the House Democratic Caucus Task Force on Aging & Families, chaired by U.S. Representatives Jan Schakowsky (IL-09) and Doris Matsui (CA-07), introduced the Older Americans Bill of Rights. This resolution, which identifies and establishes fundamental rights that every older American and their families deserve, is centered around four pillars including: guaranteeing access to affordable, equitable and comprehensive health care; financial and retirement security for seniors and their families; full participation and contribution to their communities; and aging with dignity and respect.

    “Right now, Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid benefits are under attack. Older Americans have spent their lives working to raise families, pay their taxes, protect our country, and build our communities, yet Trump and his fellow Republicans are working to cut your hard-earned benefits. Older Americans have earned the right to retire with dignity and respect, and deserve high quality health care and financial security,” said Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky. “As Co-Founder and Co-Chair of the House Democratic Caucus Task Force on Aging and Families, I feel that it is imperative we reintroduce the Older Americans Bill of Rights. We must protect the earned benefits of older Americans and ensure that they, their families, and their caregivers have all the resources they need to not just survive—but thrive.”

    “Older Americans have worked hard their entire lives to contribute to our economy, care for our families and enrich our communities. It is now up to us to guarantee seniors the right to affordable, high-quality health care, financial security, and livable communities that support aging at home,” said Congresswoman Doris Matsui. “Many seniors now face difficulties achieving retirement security, a challenge only exacerbated by the rising costs in health care and prescription drugs. As the Trump Administration moves to cut funding for Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security benefits, these affordability challenges will only get worse. The Older American Bill of Rights is a forceful response to these threats that reinforces how Democrats stand with our older Americans and will fight for their priorities. Our seniors have earned the right to retire and age with dignity.”

    “Older Americans have worked hard all their lives and deserve to retire with the benefits and financial security they have spent decades paying into,” said House Democratic Caucus Chairman Pete Aguilar (D-CA). “As Republicans continue their attacks on the basic needs programs that Seniors rely on to make ends meet, I am proud to join the Chairs of the House Democratic Caucus Task Force on Aging & Families in reintroducing the Older Americans Bill of Rights to help guarantee that our seniors can retire and age with the dignity, respect and peace of mind they deserve.”

    Every day in the United States, 10,000 Americans turn 65 years old, and this number is expected to significantly increase over the next few decades. The Task Force was created to listen and respond to the concerns of older Americans. Over the years, the Task Force has worked to raise awareness and prioritize aging-related issues, including by introducing the Older Americans Bill of Rights. 

    Today, when we face serious assaults on Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security, communicating House Democrats’ focus on protecting and strengthening the rights of aging Americans is more important than ever.

    Original cosponsors of the Older American Bill of Rights also include Reps. Debbie Dingell (MI-06), Lloyd Doggett (TX-37), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Maxwell Frost (FL-10), Betty McCollum (MN-04), Julia Brownley (CA-26), Mark Takano (CA-39), Emanuel Cleaver (MO-05), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Stephen F. Lynch (MA-08), Bill Keating (MA-09), Nanette Barragán (CA-44), Paul D. Tonko (NY-20), Juan Vargas (CA-52), Dwight Evans (PA-03), Sylvia Garcia (TX-29), Grace Meng (NY-06), Henry Johnson (GA-04),and Terri Sewell (AL-07)

    The Older American Bill of Rights is endorsed by Social Security Works, AFL-CIO, Long Term Care Community Coalition, The National Association of Nutrition and Aging Services Programs (NANASP), Elder Justice Coalition, the Alliance for Retired Americans, the Diverse Elders Coalition, Gerontological Society of America, and Alliance for Aging Research.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: A county in China exports matcha around the world

    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, May 30 (Xinhuanet) — The tradition of drinking matcha originated in ancient China and was later spread to Japan. Jiangkou County in Tongren City, southwest China’s Guizhou Province, has become the world’s production center for this type of tea. In 2024 alone, the county sold more than 1,200 tons of matcha, worth over 300 million yuan (about 41.7 million U.S. dollars). The county’s products enter overseas markets including Japan, the United States and France.

    1 2   3   4   5   6   7   >  

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: In Lianjiang County, Fujian Province: Fishermen hold dragon boat races at sea

    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

    On May 27, a sea dragon boat race was held in Dinghai Village, Lianjiang County, Fujian Province, to celebrate the upcoming Duanwu Festival. It is known that the tradition of sea dragon boat racing in Dinghai dates back to the Ming Dynasty. Today, every year during the Duanwu Festival, villagers voluntarily hold colorful competitions to preserve this centuries-old tradition.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Happy Duanwu Festival!

    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

    Duanwu Jie is one of the most ancient Chinese holidays, with a history of over 2,000 years. It is celebrated on the 5th day of the 5th month of the lunar calendar (usually in June).

    There are several legends about the origin of the holiday. The most popular is the story of Qu Yuan, a famous ancient poet and nobleman of the Chu kingdom who lived during the Spring and Autumn period (722-481 BC). Seeing his homeland under attack from the powerful Qin kingdom, Qu Yuan gave the ruler of Chu valuable advice on strengthening the military power of the state and resisting the enemy. However, the advice was disputed by other nobles and as a result, the ruler of the kingdom dismissed Qu Yuan from his post and expelled him from the capital. In exile, Qu Yuan composed immortal works in which he expressed his longing for his homeland: Lisao (Elegy of the Detached), Tianwen (Questions to Heaven), Jiuge (Nine Elegies), etc.

    In 278 BC, when the Qin army captured the capital of Chu, Qu Yuan wrote his last work, Huaisha, and, unable to bear the shame of his country’s fall, threw himself into the Miluo River on the fifth day of the fifth month. Upon learning of the poet’s death, the subjects of Chu came to the river. Fishermen tried to find the body of the drowned man. People threw rice, eggs, and other food into the river so that the fish and crayfish would not harm Qu Yuan’s body. One of the doctors poured strong rice wine into the river so that the inhabitants of the river, having drunk the wine, would not be able to eat the poet’s remains. Thus, gradually a custom developed of holding dragon boat races, drinking rice wine, and eating the festive delicacy “zongzi” every year on the fifth day of the fifth month.

    Zongzi is a steamed dish made from glutinous rice, wrapped in reed, bamboo or palm leaves and tied with colorful silk threads. According to historical records, zongzi originated during the Spring and Autumn period. The filling for zongzi can be dates, bean puree, meat, egg yolk. Nowadays, every year at the beginning of the fifth month of the lunar calendar, many Chinese families soak the glutinous rice, wash the reed leaves and cook zongzi. This festive dish can also be bought in stores.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorneys general oppose Trump ban on transgender military service

    Source: Washington State News

    SEATTLE — The president’s discriminatory ban on transgender military service members undermines state and national security, attorneys general in 20 states argued in a brief filed in the Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit on Friday. The brief was filed in support of a lawsuit from personnel seeking to overturn the order.

    Washington Attorney General Nick Brown co-authored the amicus brief that says the president’s order “not only violates the Constitution…but it will also weaken our nation’s military, including the National Guards operated by all Amici States.”

    The brief was filed in Shilling v. Trump, which was brought by lead plaintiff and decorated U.S. Navy Commander Emily Shilling. Shilling, who has served for over 20 years and flown over 60 combat and high-risk missions, is transgender and wants to continue working for the American public. Back in February, Brown’s office — joined by 20 other states — filed an amicus brief in support of the plaintiffs. The district court relied on that brief in issuing a preliminary injunction halting implementation of the president’s executive order nationwide.

    Friday’s amicus filing reaffirms that the injunction is necessary to protect important state interests.

    The attorneys general describe how the president’s action deprives states’ National Guard units of experienced and qualified soldiers at a time when recruitment is especially challenging. Trump’s blatantly discriminatory policy is also fundamentally at odds with state laws protecting transgender individuals.

    Washington was joined by the attorneys general of 19 other states in the filing, which was co-authored by Brown’s office and the Vermont Attorney General’s Office. The other states joining are California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, and Wisconsin.

    The brief is available here.

    -30-

    Washington’s Attorney General serves the people and the state of Washington. As the state’s largest law firm, the Attorney General’s Office provides legal representation to every state agency, board, and commission in Washington. Additionally, the Office serves the people directly by enforcing consumer protection, civil rights, and environmental protection laws. The Office also prosecutes elder abuse, Medicaid fraud, and handles sexually violent predator cases in 38 of Washington’s 39 counties. Visit www.atg.wa.gov to learn more.

    Media Contact:

    Email: press@atg.wa.gov

    Phone: (360) 753-2727

    General contacts: Click here

    Media Resource Guide & Attorney General’s Office FAQ

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Global Forum on Int’l Mediation held in Hong Kong to address state-to-state, commercial disputes

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

    This photo taken on May 30, 2025 shows a view of the International Organization for Mediation in south China’s Hong Kong. [Photo/Xinhua]

    The Global Forum on International Mediation was convened in Hong Kong on Friday, following the signing ceremony of the Convention on the Establishment of the International Organization for Mediation (IOMed) earlier.

    The occasion gathered leaders of several signatory states of the Convention, heads of international organizations and multilateral institutions, experts in the field of international mediation, and other stakeholders, to delve into topics including state-to-state mediation as well as international investment and international commercial dispute mediation.

    They applauded mediation’s dual focus on procedural and outcome fairness, describing it as a “win-win” alternative to adversarial legal processes. They also believed that the IOMed would fill a critical gap in global dispute-resolution mechanisms, enhancing both international governance and state-to-state collaboration.

    In his keynote address, Paul Lam, secretary for justice of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government, emphasized the principle of peaceful dispute resolution under international law, calling mediation a forward-looking and constructive approach compared to traditional litigation and arbitration.

    Lam underscored the selection of Hong Kong as the court’s headquarters as a testament to its legal infrastructure, citing Hong Kong’s pool of cross-jurisdictional legal talent and track record in international dispute resolution. Hong Kong’s common law system and reputation for efficiency position it as a global hub for legal services, he said, adding that it would leverage this role to expand mediation services and attract more member states.

    Indonesia’s Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs Arif Havas Oegroseno praised the convention’s timing, calling it a response to global demand for cooperative conflict resolution. He highlighted gaps in current international mechanisms and stressed the importance of a specialized body for strengthening the global legal framework. Oegroseno said Indonesia would actively participate in drafting the court’s rules and collaborate with the relevant parties to advance its mandate.

    Edward Liu, the principal representative of the International Chamber of Shipping (China) Liaison Office and a partner at Haiwen & Partners LLP, described the court as a “Chinese solution” expands the focus on economic engagement to formal dispute resolution, saying that it embodies China’s philosophy of “harmony with diversity” and signals China’s commitment to global governance.

    Noting Hong Kong’s unique status as a common law jurisdiction under “one country, two systems,” Liu said Hong Kong’s role as the court’s base aligns with its designation as an “Asia-Pacific international legal and dispute resolution center.”

    The role as a “super-connector” and a “super value-adder” between the Chinese mainland and the rest of the world positions Hong Kong to serve both national priorities and international needs, he said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese FM meets Pakistani counterpart on ties

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

    Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said in Hong Kong on Friday that China is willing to work with Pakistan and like-minded countries to enhance the unique advantages of the International Organization for Mediation (IOMed).

    When meeting with Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar, who attended the signing ceremony of the Convention on the Establishment of the IOMed in Hong Kong, Wang said that China is willing to work with Pakistan and other countries to provide voluntary and efficient new options for dispute settlement for all countries, and a new platform for maintaining peace, stability, fairness and justice in the global South.

    Dar said that China’s initiative to establish the IOMed was timely and represented an important contribution to strengthening the multilateral system. He noted that the recent informal meeting of foreign ministers from Pakistan, China, and Afghanistan in Beijing was a success. Pakistan decided to accept China’s mediation proposal and elevate its diplomatic relations with Afghanistan to the ambassadorial level.

    Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said that Pakistan’s move to upgrade its diplomatic ties with Afghanistan will help improve relations, enhance trust and strengthen cooperation between the two countries.

    China supports Pakistan in assuming the rotating presidency of the United Nations Security Council in July and contributing to international peace and security, Wang added.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: May 29th, 2025 Heinrich Presses Trump Administration on Plans to Transfer Public Lands

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich
    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, sent a letter to U.S. Department of the Interior Secretary Doug Burgum demanding answers on the Department’s plans to transfer National Park System units out of federal management. The letter follows Heinrich’squestioning of Secretary Burgum during a Senate Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee hearing, where Burgum failed to provide sufficient answers on the Trump Administration’s plan to transfer hundreds of sites managed by the National Park Service (NPS) to the states.
    “The Administration’s budget proposes a $900 million reduction to the operation of the National Park System – approximately a 30 percent cut. In the same budget submission, the Administration proposed ‘transferring smaller, lesser visited parks to [s]tate and tribal governments,” Heinrich wrote in his letter to Secretary Burgum.
    The Administration’s proposal to reduce NPS’s budget and transfer management responsibilities of park system units to states threatens local economies and businesses. In fact, national parks are engines of economic growth. In 2023, visitors to NPS sites contributed an estimated $55.6 billion to the economy and supported over 400,000 jobs.
    Heinrich noted that only Congress has authority to transfer NPS units in most circumstances, stating clearly his opposition to transferring these sites to the states, “As you know, most NPS units were established legislatively, and transferring them out of federal management would require legislation from Congress. As the Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, which has jurisdiction over legislation regarding the National Park System, I am opposed to the Administration’s proposal to transfer NPS sites to the states.”
    Heinrich continued, emphasizing his concerns over the Secretary’s lack of information on the units under consideration, and what states the Administration hopes to transfer the units to,“You told me that you have not yet consulted with the states that you hope to transfer these units to, nor have you determined which units are under consideration… You told the House Committee on Appropriations, Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies, that there are ‘over 400 other locations that the National Park Service manages’ that are under consideration for divestment, but you did not provide any detail about which units those are, other than that they are not the ‘crown Jewels.”’
    Heinrich concluded his letter by asking for detailed answers from Secretary Burgum to the following questions:
    At the hearing in the House Appropriations Committee, you said the administration is not considering transferring any of the “crown jewel” national parks. Please list which NPS units the administration is not considering transferring to states and which units the administration is considering transferring to states. For each unit the administration is considering transferring to states, please describe why the administration is considering the transfer.
     What factors will the administration consider when generating its list of which NPS units to transfer and which units not to transfer? In responding to this question, please provide a comprehensive list of all factors the Department will consider.
     For each NPS unit the Department is considering transferring to a state, has the Department conducted or does the Department plan to conduct a comprehensive analysis to understand the economic impact to local gateway communities? If so, please provide a copy of the analysis.
     For each NPS unit the Department is considering transferring to a state, has the Department conducted or does the Department plan to conduct a comprehensive analysis to understand if the state is equipped (e.g., possesses sufficient resources and funding) to manage the site? If so, please provide a copy of the analysis.
    Read the full letter here and below.
    Dear Secretary Burgum:
    Earlier this month, the Trump administration released its preliminary 2026 budget request outlining significant cuts to government agencies, including steep cuts to the Department of the Interior’s National Park Service (NPS). The administration’s budget proposes a $900 million reduction to the operation of the National Park System – approximately a 30 percent cut.
    In the same budget submission, the administration proposed “transferring smaller, lesser visited parks to [s]tate and tribal governments.” The administration’s proposal to reduce NPS’ budget and transfer management responsibilities of park system units to states threatens local economies and businesses. In fact, national parks are engines of economic growth. In 2023, visitors to NPS sites contributed an estimated $55.6 billion to the economy and supported over 400,000 jobs.
    As you know, most NPS units were established legislatively, and transferring them out of federal management would require legislation from Congress. As the ranking member of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, which has jurisdiction over legislation regarding the National Park System, I am opposed to the administration’s proposal to transfer NPS sites to the states. States do not have the same resources as the Federal government to manage and maintain these sites that tell the complex story of our nation. The budget proposal makes clear that the administration expects the states to shoulder the burden of managing these sites without any additional funding or resources, many of which have significant and costly deferred maintenance backlogs.
    You appeared before the Senate Committee on Appropriations, Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies, earlier this week to outline the administration’s budget submission. At that hearing, I asked you about the administration’s plan to transfer hundreds of NPS units to the states. You told me that you have not yet consulted with the states that you hope to transfer these units to, nor have you determined which units are under consideration. Earlier in the week, you told the House Committee on Appropriations, Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies, that there are “over 400 other locations that the national park service manages” that are under consideration for divestment, but you did not provide any detail about which units those are, other than that they are not the “crown Jewels.”
    In light of these outstanding questions and concerns, I request you provide comprehensive responses to the following questions by June 6, 2025:
    1. At the hearing in the House Appropriations Committee, you said the administration is not considering transferring any of the “crown jewel” national parks. Please list which NPS units the administration is not considering transferring to states and which units the administration is considering transferring to states. For each unit the administration is considering transferring to states, please describe why the administration is considering the transfer.
    2. What factors will the administration consider when generating its list of which NPS units to transfer and which units not to transfer? In responding to this question, please provide a comprehensive list of all factors the Department will consider.
    3. For each NPS unit the Department is considering transferring to a state, has the Department conducted or does the Department plan to conduct a comprehensive analysis to understand the economic impact to local gateway communities? If so, please provide a copy of the analysis.
    4. For each NPS unit the Department is considering transferring to a state, has the Department conducted or does the Department plan to conduct a comprehensive analysis to understand if the state is equipped (e.g., possesses sufficient resources and  funding) to manage the site? If so, please provide a copy of the analysis.
    Thank you, in advance, for your prompt responses to these questions. If you have any questions or need additional information, please do not hesitate to contact my staff at (202) 224-4971.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: May 30th, 2025 Heinrich Leads Letter to the Department of the Interior Inspector General Urging Evaluation of Threats Posed by Workforce Reductions at the Bureau of Reclamation

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich
    Heinrich and Senators to the DOI Acting Inspector General: “We are concerned that the Administration’s actions to gut the agency of qualified public servants could leave critical water infrastructure and communities vulnerable to operational disruptions”
    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, led seven Democratic Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee colleagues in a letter urging the U.S. Department of the Interior Acting Inspector General (IG) Caryl Brzymialkiewicz to evaluate the extent to which  the Trump Administration’s workforce reductions at the Bureau of Reclamation (BOR) prevent the agency from fulfilling its statutory mission and implementing relevant programs and activities authorized by Congress.
    “Recent reductions in workforce significantly threaten BOR’s ability to safely and reliably deliver water to communities and farmers, keep waterways flowing for fish and wildlife across the western United States, and produce reliable electricity,” the senators began.
    The BOR is the largest wholesale water supplier in the United States – delivering trillions of gallons of water to more than 31 million people. The BOR also is the second largest producer of hydroelectric power in the country. The facilities the BOR operate generate 40 million megawatt-hours of electricity each year.
    According to reports, the BOR has lost 1,400 public servants, around 25 percent of the agency’s entire workforce, since the Administration began its assault on the federal workforce.
    The senators continued, expressing concern over the lack of strategy and harm to public safety that workforce reductions pose, “Rapid reductions to BOR’s workforce raise significant concerns about the Bureau’s ability to meet its core responsibilities, particularly inspecting dams and identifying threats to public safety.”
    “BOR needs experienced personnel with the necessary expertise to manage critical infrastructure. We are concerned that the Administration’s actions to gut the agency of qualified public servants could leave critical water infrastructure and communities vulnerable to operational disruptions,” the senators continued.
    The senators concluded their letter by requesting that the IG evaluate whether recent workforce reductions at BOR inhibit the Bureau from carrying out its obligations.
    The letter is led by Ranking Member Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.). The letter is signed by Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources Democratic members U.S. Senators Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), and Rueben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), and Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.).
    The full text of the letter is here and below:
    Dear Acting Inspector General Brzymialkiewicz:
    We write to request that your office evaluate the extent to which workforce reductions at the Bureau of Reclamation (“Bureau” or “BOR”) prevent the agency from fulfilling its statutory mission and implementing relevant programs and activities authorized by Congress. The Bureau is the largest wholesaler of water in the United States—delivering trillions of gallons of water to more than 31 million people. The Bureau is also the second largest producer of hydroelectric power in the country. The facilities BOR operate generate 40 million megawatt-hours of electricity each year. However, recent reductions in workforce significantly threaten BOR’s ability to safely and reliably deliver water to communities and farmers, keep waterways flowing for fish and wildlife across the western United States, and produce reliable electricity.
    According to reports, BOR has lost 1,400 public servants since the administration began its assault on the federal workforce. The positions reportedly eliminated include mechanics, engineers, and fish biology specialists—personnel with considerable expertise. Through firings of probational workers, buyouts, early retirements, and other related actions, BOR has shrunk by 25 percent. This workforce reduction has lacked a coherent, mission- and safety- driven strategy and instead led to the departure of experienced personnel—some with over 20 years of experience—leaving the Bureau susceptible to operational disruptions.
    Rapid reductions to BOR’s workforce raise significant concerns about the Bureau’s ability to meet its core responsibilities, particularly inspecting dams and identifying threats to public safety. BOR manages over 450 dams throughout 17 western states. Previously, BOR’s dam safety program identified over 300 high and significant hazard dams at more than 200 facilities. The age and complex nature of dam systems necessitates having experienced staff trained in the operation of such systems. In fact, as your office identified in a September 2023 report, approximately 90 percent of BOR’s dams are more than 50 years old and “[a]ging dams increaset he risk of dam failures.” BOR needs experienced personnel with the necessary expertise to manage critical infrastructure. We are concerned that the administration’s actions to gut the agency of qualified public servants could leave critical water infrastructure and communities vulnerable to operational disruptions.
    Your office is responsible for promoting “accountability, integrity, economy, efficiency, and effectiveness within” the DOI and identifying “ways to improve the DOI’s programs and operations by offering specific, actionable recommendations that lead to positive change.” We therefore urge you to evaluate whether recent workforce reductions at BOR inhibit the Bureau from carrying out its obligations.
    Thank you for your attention to this important matter.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: May 30th, 2025 Heinrich Invites U.S. Forest Service Chief to Pecos Watershed

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich
    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, sent a letter inviting U.S. Forest Service Chief Tom Schultz to visit the Upper Pecos Watershed in Northern New Mexico and hear from local leaders, Tribes, community members, farmers, business owners, and recreationists about the importance of protecting the Upper Pecos Watershed from new mining operations.
    “For decades, the community in the Upper Pecos Watershed of New Mexico has been united in an effort to protect the river basin from the very real threat of mine waste pollution. Everyone in the community can agree that the Pecos River is an invaluable lifeline. With headwaters in Northern New Mexico, the Pecos supports a wide range of uses from recreation and agriculture to traditional use by the Pueblos in the area. Unfortunately, this region has a history of poorly managed mining projects,”Heinrich wrote to U.S. Forest Service Chief Tom Schultz.
    “The area is still recovering from a devastating 1991 mine spill, which threatened the health and economic survival in the immediate community and for hundreds of miles throughout the state. Thanks to decades of hard work and millions of dollars, this watershed is once again one of the cleanest and most productive in the state – though the remediation is not complete,” Heinrich stated.
    In 1991, a toxic waste spill from a closed mine in the Upper Pecos Watershed caused more than 11 miles of fish kill in the river and required a clean up effort that took decades and millions of dollars to complete. For years, there has been a community-led effort to protect the area from future mining claims to avoid similar threats and pollution.
    In response to a letter sent by Heinrich and the N.M. Congressional Delegation, in December 2024, President Biden’s Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and Forest Service initiated a process to propose a 20-year withdrawal to help secure the region’s water and air quality, cultural resources, critical fish and wildlife habitat, and recreational opportunities. The withdrawal, for lands in San Miguel and Santa Fe counties, encompassed multiple Pecos River tributaries, including Dalton Canyon, Macho Canyon, Wild Horse Creek, Indian Creek, and Doctor Creek.
    On December 16, 2024, the BLM and Forest Service initiated a 90-day public comment period to gather input on the proposal. During the comment period, the two agencies were scheduled to host a public meeting for the proposed Upper Pecos River Watershed Protection Area withdrawal on February 26, 2025. This public meeting was cancelled by the Trump Administration on February 19, 2025, with no further explanation. Despite the cancellation, the Administration received hundreds of public comments in support of the mineral withdrawal.
    On April 7, 2025, reporting from Source New Mexico revealed the Trump Administration plans to reverse the BLM and the Forest Service’s decision to protect the Upper Pecos Watershed from new mining operations.
    “I am concerned by the Forest Service’s decision to reverse the temporary protection and discontinue the process for a longer-term withdrawal. This decision was made without proper community engagement or review of the hundreds of positive comments that were submitted during the public comment period,” Heinrich continued in his letter to Chief Schultz.
    In response to the Trump Administration’s reversal, Heinrich reintroduced his Pecos Watershed Protection Act to permanently withdraw all federally managed minerals in the watershed from development — preventing the leasing, patent, or sale of all publicly owned minerals.
    To continue the effort to protect the Pecos, Heinrich invited Chief Schultz at the end of his letter, writing, “I would like to extend an invitation to you to visit New Mexico and the Pecos area so you can hear firsthand from local leaders, Tribes, community members, farmers, business owners, recreationists, and others while experiencing the beauty of this watershed. While there, you can see why this river is so valuable and witness the very real threat of mining pollution that still exists.”
    At the end of his letter, Heinrich included invitations to Chief Schultz from local and Tribal leaders that show the widespread community support for permanently protecting the Pecos.
    Read the community letter from over 20 local leaders and members of the Hispanic Conservation Leadership Council here.
    Read the invitation from the Pueblo of Jemez here.
    Read the invitation from the Pueblo of Tesuque here.
    Read Heinrich’s full letter here and below:
    Dear Chief Schultz:
    For decades, the community in the Upper Pecos Watershed of New Mexico has been united in an effort to protect the river basin from the very real threat of mine waste pollution. Everyone in the community can agree that the Pecos River is an invaluable lifeline. With headwaters in Northern New Mexico, the Pecos supports a wide range of uses from recreation and agriculture to traditional use by the Pueblos in the area. Unfortunately, this region has a history of poorly managed mining projects. The area is still recovering from a devastating 1991 mine spill, which threatened the health and economic survival in the immediate community and for hundreds of miles throughout the state. Thanks to decades of hard work and millions of dollars, this watershed is once again one of the cleanest and most productive in the state – though the remediation is not complete.
    To New Mexicans who are facing a threat to their way of life and cultural heritage, there is no doubt that this area should be permanently protected. The spill in 1991 left scars on the landscape and with those who depend on the river. We celebrated when the Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management announced last year that they would be pursuing a 20-year mineral withdrawal in the basin. The long-overdue action by the last Administration was a major victory for the Pecos Valley.
    However, I am concerned by the Forest Service’s decision to reverse the temporary protection and discontinue the process for a longer-term withdrawal. This decision was made without proper community engagement or review of the hundreds of positive comments that were submitted during the public comment period. The Administration also cancelled a public forum that would have allowed for discussion of the administrative withdrawal and demonstrated to your agency that this community is united by the beauty and health of the Pecos River.
    Therefore, I would like to extend an invitation to you to visit New Mexico and the Pecos area so you can hear firsthand from local leaders, Tribes, community members, farmers, business owners, recreationists, and others while experiencing the beauty of this watershed. While there, you can see why this river is so valuable and witness the very real threat of mining pollution that still exists.
    I am including letters and invites from local and tribal leaders that show the widespread support for this effort in the area. They represent just a few of many examples of community support for protecting the Pecos. Thank you for your attention to this request and I hope I can see you in New Mexico soon.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Dr. Rand Paul Reintroduces Bill to Repeal Job-Killing ‘Tan Tax’

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kentucky Rand Paul
     
     
    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
    May 30, 2025, 2025
     Contact: Press_Paul@paul.senate.gov, 202-224-4343
     
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last week, U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) reintroduced the Tan Tax Repeal Act, legislation to eliminate the burdensome 10 percent tax on indoor tanning services—a relic of the disastrous Affordable Care Act. The tax, imposed in 2010 as a last-minute addition to fund Obamacare, has disproportionately hurt small businesses and women entrepreneurs across the country. The bill is cosponsored by Senators Ted Budd (R-NC), Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) and Pete Ricketts (R-NE).
    “This tax was never about public health—it was about squeezing more money out of hardworking Americans to fund a broken government program,” said Dr. Paul. “The Tan Tax is a perfect example of the federal government picking winners and losers—and in this case, punishing women-owned businesses trying to stay afloat in a tough economy.”
    BACKGROUND:
    The so-called “Tan Tax” was slipped into the Affordable Care Act as a last-minute replacement for a proposed “Botox tax.” The result? Over 11,000 tanning salons—most of them women-owned—have closed their doors. 
    According to the American Suntanning Association, more than 110,000 jobs, mostly held by women, have been lost. The tax also decimated domestic tanning equipment manufacturers, shifting jobs and production to foreign countries.
    Dr. Paul has long opposed the Affordable Care Act and has consistently called for the repeal of harmful, overreaching policies like the Tan Tax. He previously included this repeal in his broader Obamacare replacement legislation.
    You can read the Tan Tax Repeal Act HERE.
     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Oregonians Should Plan Ahead for Evacuations During the 2025 Wildfire Awareness Month

    Source: US State of Oregon

    s Wildfire Awareness Month comes to a close the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) is urging residents to take action now to prepare for the upcoming wildfire season by being ready to evacuate.

    Last year’s wildfire season was the most destructive in Oregon’s recorded history. The 2025 season is shaping up to be just as formidable. Wildfires can spread rapidly, threatening lives, homes and communities, so it’s vital the Oregonians be prepared ahead of time to receive timely notices and to evacuate if asked.

    OEM has provided resources to help Oregonians take small preparedness steps today can make a life-saving difference tomorrow. For more information about preparing your household and community visit the OEM Be2WeeksReady Community Preparedness webpages. In the meantime, here are some key tips to help you be ready should evacuation be necessary.

    Stay Informed

    Sign up for emergency alerts to receive evacuation notifications. Visit ORAlert.gov to find the local alert system for your city, county, or zip code. If you’re already registered, take a moment to log in and update your contact information. Also, check your phone settings to ensure wireless emergency alerts are enabled.

    Know where to find local emergency information, such as your county’s emergency management website and TripCheck.com. Follow local emergency services on social media, including the sheriff’s office, fire agencies, and city or county pages.

    Also, make sure the Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) are enabled on your phone.

    Create a Wildfire Evacuation Plan

    Being prepared starts with a plan. Visit Ready.gov/plan to create a family emergency plan. OEM offers a wildfire evacuation checklist at wildfire.oregon.gov/prepare that can serve as a guide.

    Your plan should include:

    • A list of emergency contacts.
    • A safe meeting place in case family members get separated.
    • Multiple evacuation routes from home, work, or school. TripCheck.com can help with this.
    • Transportation arrangements, including pets and livestock.
    • A discussion with loved ones, friends, and neighbors to ensure everyone understands the plan.

    Individuals with disabilities should plan ahead for transportation, equipment, and service animal needs. Visit the Red Cross for tailored resources. If you have special medical needs, make sheltering arrangements some place that can accommodate your needs, as not all standard shelters can.

    For pet and livestock evacuation planning, visit Ready.gov/pets. Prepare a pet emergency kit with essentials like food, water, medications, identification, and medical records. Livestock owners should arrange transportation and shelter options in advance—resources are available at Oregon Department of Agriculture.

    Assemble a Wildfire Go-Kit

    A go-kit contains essential items you may need to take with you in a hurry. Each household member should have an easy-to-carry emergency bag with:

    • Food and water.
    • Medications and medical supplies.
    • Flashlights and phone chargers.
    • Extra clothing and personal items.
    • Copies of vital documents and prescriptions.

    For a comprehensive emergency kit checklist, visit Ready.gov/kit or refer to the American Red Cross recommendations.

    Know Evacuation Levels

    Oregon uses a three-level evacuation system to keep residents informed and safe. Be familiar with “Be Ready, Be Set, Go!” notifications:

    • Level One – BE READY (Green): Stay aware of the wildfire threat and get prepared. Pack your go-kit, check emergency contacts, and ensure those in vulnerable situations (older adults, children, individuals with disabilities, and livestock owners) are ready to evacuate if needed.
    • Level Two – BE SET (Yellow): Be prepared to leave at any moment. This indicates significant wildfire danger. Voluntary evacuation is encouraged—especially for those needing extra time to relocate safely.
    • Level Three – GO (Red): Evacuate immediately! This means extreme danger is present, and it is unsafe to remain in place. Emergency responders may not be able to assist further. Leave immediately without gathering belongings and check TripCheck.com or call 511 for evacuation routes.

    After evacuating, do not return until officials declare it safe. You can find additional wildfire preparedness resources at wildfire.oregon.gov.

    Additional Wildfire Preparedness Resources

    Getting an insurance check-up. Your insurance policy may not cover floods or wildfires. Talk to your agent to make sure you have the right kind and amount of insurance.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Eight defendants charged with narcotics offenses

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ROCHESTER, N.Y. – U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that eight defendants were charged by indictment or criminal complaint for their roles in a narcotics conspiracy operating in the Rochester, NY, area, and other related offenses.

    Named in two separate indictments and charged with narcotics conspiracy are:

    •      Carlos Serrano, Jr.

    •       Sam Sierra, Jr.

    •       Carlos Melendez, Jr.

    •       Eban Sterina

    If convicted, the indicted defendants face a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison, a maximum of life, and a fine of $10,000,000.

    In addition:

    • Juan Sosa is charged by criminal complaint with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, which carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison, and a maximum of life.
    • Jose Laviena and Giovanni Serrano are charged by criminal complaint with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, which carry a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison, and a maximum of life.
    • Dusty Phakousonh is charged by criminal complaint with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison, and a maximum of 40 years.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas T. Cooper, who is handling the case, stated that according to the indictments and complaints against the nine defendants, who are all from Rochester, investigators executed 20 search warrants on 14 residences and six vehicles, seizing: 

    • Approximately 2,678 grams of fentanyl
    • Approximately 692 grams of cocaine
    • Approximately 22 grams of crack cocaine
    • Approximately 31 pounds of marijuana
    • Approximately 168 grams of hash
    • Approximately 441 grams of K2 (synthetic cannabinoid)
    • Approximately 108 grams of suboxone
    • Six firearms
    • Drug paraphernalia
    • Approximately $100,000 in cash
    • Approximately $100,000 in jewelry

    This investigation is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    The indictments and complaints are the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank Tarentino, New York Field Division, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Bryan Miller, New York Field Division, the U.S. Marshals Service, under the direction of Marshal Charles Salina, Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan, the Rochester Police Department, under the direction of Chief David Smith. The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Todd Baxter, the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Kevin Sucher, the Greece Police Department, under the direction of Chief Michael Wood, the Ontario County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff David Cirencione, and Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations, under the direction of Acting Field Office Director Steven Kurzdorfer.

    The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.  

    # # # #

     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • South America – A Roundup of Significant Articles on ForeignAffairs.co.nz for May 31, 2025

    South America: Here is a summary of significant articles published on ForeignAffairs.co.nz on May 31, 2025.

    MIL-OSI Security: District of Arizona Charges 257 Individuals for Immigration-Related Criminal Conduct this Week
    Source: Office of United States Attorneys PHOENIX, Ariz. – During the week of enforcement operations from May 24, 2025, through May 30, 2025, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Arizona brought immigration-related criminal charges against 257 individuals. Specifically, the United States filed 125 cases in which aliens illegally re-entered the United States, and […]

    MIL-OSI Security: Mexico City-Based Attorney Pleads Guilty in $52 Million Dollar Sinaloa Cartel Money Laundering Scheme
    Source: Office of United States Attorneys SAN DIEGO – Hector Alejandro Paez Garcia, a Mexico City-based attorney, has pleaded guilty in federal court, admitting that he and others conspired to transport, transmit, and transfer tens of millions of dollars in drug trafficking proceeds from the United States to Mexico. Paez’s plea is part of a […]

    MIL-OSI Security: Three Admit to Roles in Drug Trafficking Organization
    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF) MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Three people have admitted to working in a large-scale drug operation in Berkeley and Jefferson Counties.   Juan Carlos Suarez-Lugo, age 55, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, and Alexis Alvarado, age 38, of Ranson, West Virginia, each pled guilty to conspiracy to […]

    MIL-OSI USA: CLARKE ISSUES STATEMENT ON SUPREME COURT’S DISTURBING RULING TO REVOKE LEGAL STATUS OF MORE THAN 500,000 MIGRANTS
    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Yvette D Clarke (9th District of New York) FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 30, 2025 MEDIA CONTACT:  e: jessica.myers@mail.house.gov c: 202.913.0126 WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09) released the following statement: “I am truly outraged by the Supreme Court’s morally bankrupt and legally absurd decision to rubber […]

    MIL-OSI Russia: IMF Executive Board Concludes 2025 Article IV Consultation with Bolivia
    Source: IMF – News in Russian May 30, 2025 Washington, DC: The Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) completed the Article IV consultation[1] for Bolivia on May 2. The authorities have consented to the publication of the Staff Report prepared for this consultation.[2] Bolivia’s real GDP growth has moderated to 2.1 percent in […]

    MIL-OSI USA News: MADE IN THE USA: President Trump’s Vision is Revitalizing American Industry
    Source: US Whitehouse President Donald J. Trump heads to Pennsylvania today, where he’ll champion the partnership he brokered between U.S. Steel and Nippon Steel — a $14 billion investment that will create at least 70,000 jobs and ensure steel is made in America for decades to come. AMERICAN JOBS, AMERICAN STEEL. The landmark agreement comes […]

    MIL-OSI USA: Father and son indicted for providing material support to Mexican cartel engaged in terrorism following ICE Rio Grande Valley, federal partner investigation
    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement BROWNSVILLE, Texas – Two family members with ties to South Texas have been charged with allegedly conspiring to materially support a Mexican cartel previously designated as a foreign terrorist organization, conspiracy to commit money laundering and related smuggling charges, following an investigation conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, […]

    MIL-OSI United Nations: Deputy Secretary-General’s remarks at the Opening Session of the International Conference for Glaciers’ Preservation [as delivered]
    Source: United Nations secretary general Your Excellency Mr. Emomali Rahmon, President of the Republic of Tajikistan, Your Excellency, the Prime Minister of Pakistan, Mr.  Shehbaz Sharif, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen, I would like to extend my warmest congratulations to the Government and the people of the Republic of Tajikistan for convening this High-Level International Conference […]

    MIL-OSI USA: United States Secures the Extraditions of Individuals Accused of Violent and Other Serious Crimes from Canada, Colombia, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, Georgia, Guatemala, Germany, Guinea-Bissau, Honduras, Israel, Kenya, Kosovo, Malaysia, Mauritius,
    Source: US State of North Dakota United States Also Returned International Fugitives Wanted for Terrorism, Murder, Attempted Murder and Child Sexual Abuse to Canada, India, and Mexico Note: The defendants whose names are underlined hyperlink to press releases. WASHINGTON — Extensive coordination between the Justice Department and law enforcement authorities in Canada, Colombia, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, Georgia, Guatemala, […]

    MIL-OSI USA: Welch Statement on Supreme Court Decision Revoking Humanitarian Migrant Programs
    US Senate News: Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont) BURLINGTON, VT—Today the U.S. Supreme Court ruled to effectively deport more than 500,000 immigrants from Cuba, Nicaragua, Venezuela, and Haiti who fled war, political persecution, humanitarian crises, and failed economies to migrate lawfully to America through the humanitarian parole process. U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.)  released the […]

    MIL-OSI Security: United States Secures the Extraditions of Individuals Accused of Violent and Other Serious Crimes from Canada, Colombia, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, Georgia, Guatemala, Germany, Guinea-Bissau, Honduras, Israel, Kenya, Kosovo, Malaysia, Mauritius,
    Source: United States Attorneys General 1 United States Also Returned International Fugitives Wanted for Terrorism, Murder, Attempted Murder and Child Sexual Abuse to Canada, India, and Mexico Note: The defendants whose names are underlined hyperlink to press releases. WASHINGTON — Extensive coordination between the Justice Department and law enforcement authorities in Canada, Colombia, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, Georgia, Guatemala, […]

    MIL-OSI USA: DHS Releases Statement on Major SCOTUS Victory for Trump Administration and the American People on Ending the CHNV Parole Program
    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency Headline: DHS Releases Statement on Major SCOTUS Victory for Trump Administration and the American People on Ending the CHNV Parole Program lass=”text-align-center”>CHNV was an unlawful scheme to unleash over 530,000 poorly vetted aliens into AmericaWASHINGTON – The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) secured a legal victory in its effort […]

    MIL-OSI United Nations: Committee on the Rights of the Child Closes Ninety-Ninth Session after Adopting Concluding Observations on Reports of Brazil, Indonesia, Iraq, Norway, Qatar and Romania
    Source: United Nations – Geneva The Committee on the Rights of the Child this afternoon closed its ninety-ninth session after adopting its concluding observations on the reports of Brazil, Indonesia, Iraq, Norway, Qatar and Romania under the Convention on the Rights of the Child, as well as the report on Brazil’s efforts to implement the Optional Protocol […]

    MIL-OSI United Nations: Central America and Dominican Republic: Regional Intergovernmental Organizations strengthen national disaster risk reduction financing strategies
    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction The United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) has collaborated with the Coordination Centre for the Prevention of Natural Disasters in Central America (CEPREDENAC) and the Council of Ministers of Finance of Central America, Panama and the Dominican Republic (COSEFIN) to enhance disaster risk reduction (DRR) financing across Central […]

    MIL-OSI United Nations: A model for infrastructure resilience: Lessons from Bhutan, Chile, Costa Rica, Madagascar and Tonga
    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction Modelled costs indicate that global annual average losses to infrastructure exceed $700 billion, with lower-income countries 1disproportionately affected. These losses frequently erase development gains, undermining long-term progress. Strengthening the resilience of infrastructure is essential to achieving the objectives of the Sendai Framework-particularly Target D-and the Sustainable Development Goals. Societies depend […]

    MIL-OSI USA: With Over $42 BILLION In Vital Broadband Funding Still Held Up By Trump Administration, Leader Schumer, Ranking Member Cantwell, And Senator Luján Demand Admin Stop The Delays & Immediately Release The Funding Into American Communities; Senators Say 25 Million Americans Still Lack High-Speed Internet As Bipartisan Funding Lingers
    US Senate News: Source: United States Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico) Washington, D.C. – Today, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), along with Commerce Committee Ranking Member Maria Cantwell (D-WA), and Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), sent the following letter to Commerce Secretary Lutnick and President Trump demanding that the Commerce Department immediately release the $42 billion […]

    MIL-OSI USA: Luján Leads Senate Democrats Urging Additional Funding to Keep Communities Safe
    US Senate News: Source: United States Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico) Washington D.C. – U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) led 29 Senate Democrats in urging the Senate Committee on Appropriations to fund the Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) Hiring Program at a minimum of $270 million for Fiscal Year 2026. Amid a nationwide shortage […]

    MIL-OSI Video: The Week at State – new visa policies, Memorial Day, Syria and Venezuela Updates
    Source: United States of America – Department of State (video statements) This week at State: – Secretary Rubio announces new visa policies that put America first – We recognize the sacrifice of our Nation’s fallen heroes on Memorial Day – Ambassador Thomas Barrack is now Presiden Trump’s Special Envoy to Syria – We warn U.S. […]

    MIL-OSI Security: Three Defendants Sentenced and Another Pleads Guilty for Roles in Transnational Drug Trafficking Operation
    Source: Office of United States Attorneys PITTSBURGH, Pa. – Three individuals from Pennsylvania, Washington, and Arizona were sentenced, and another individual from Ohio pleaded guilty, in federal court on May 28, 2025, to charges of violating federal narcotics and money laundering laws in relation to a transnational drug trafficking organization (DTO), Acting United States Attorney […]

    MIL-OSI Security: New Mexico Man Indicted in El Paso for Drug, Firearm and Murder Charges
    Source: Office of United States Attorneys EL PASO, Texas – A New Mexico man is in federal custody after being indicted by a federal grand jury in El Paso in 2021 and expelled to the U.S. by Mexican authorities earlier this week. Jaime Renteria-Fernandez, 31, of Albuquerque, New Mexico, is charged in a superseding indictment […]

  • India – A Roundup of Significant Articles on ForeignAffairs.co.nz for May 31, 2025

    India: Here is a summary of significant articles published on ForeignAffairs.co.nz on May 31, 2025.

    MIL-OSI USA: SPC Tornado Watch 350
    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Note:  The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.SEL0 URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTEDTornado Watch Number 350NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK455 PM EDT Fri May 30 2025 The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued […]

    MIL-OSI New Zealand: NZ and India cement progress as four-country tour ends
    Source: New Zealand Government New Zealand and India have discussed their enhanced relationship across a broad range of domains, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Winston Peters says.  “New Zealand and India have agreed that we can and should be doing more together,” Mr Peters says.“Both countries have worked hard over the last 18 months […]

    MIL-OSI USA: Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs Signs Agreement with Coquille Indian Tribe to Assist Tribal Veterans
    Source: US State of Oregon he Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs signed a formal agreement with the Coquille Indian Tribe last week that will provide a framework for collaboration and increased resources dedicated to supporting the Tribe’s veterans in accessing their earned federal and state veterans’ benefits. The Memorandum of Understanding was signed Tuesday, May […]

    IndiaAI mission gets boost as compute capacity tops 34,000 GPUs
    Source: Government of India Source: Government of India (4) Union Minister for Electronics and Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw on Friday announced a major expansion in the country’s national AI infrastructure and talent development ecosystem. Speaking at the ‘IndiaAI – Make AI in India, Make AI Work for India’ event in New Delhi, the Minister said […]

    First round of India-Chile CEPA negotiations concludes in New Delhi
    Source: Government of India Source: Government of India (4) The first round of negotiations for the India-Chile Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) concluded successfully in New Delhi, marking a major step towards enhancing bilateral economic cooperation. The negotiations began on May 26, following the signing of the Terms of Reference on May 8.  The opening […]

    MIL-OSI Security: Indianapolis Man Sentenced to 46 Months in Prison
    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF) SOUTH BEND – Queyoun Foulks-Smith, 20 years old, of Indianapolis, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Cristal C. Brisco after pleading guilty to possession of a machinegun, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay. Foulks-Smith was sentenced to 46 months […]

    India’s real GDP grows at 6.5% in FY 2024-25; Q4 sees strong 7.4% expansion
    Source: Government of India Source: Government of India (4) The National Statistics Office (NSO), under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI), has released the Provisional Estimates of Annual Gross Domestic Product (GDP) for the financial year 2024–25, along with the Quarterly Estimates for the January–March period (Q4) of the same year. India’s real […]

    MIL-OSI Economics: Monthly Data on India’s International Trade in Services for the Month of April 2025
    Source: Reserve Bank of India The value of exports and imports of services during April 2025 is given in the following table. International Trade in Services (US$ million) Month Receipts (Exports) Payments (Imports) January – 2025 34,726(12.0) 16,706(12.6) February – 2025 31,625(11.6) 14,506(-4.8) March – 2025 35,600(18.6) 17,475(5.3) April – 2025 32,843(8.8) 16,909(0.9) Notes: (i) […]

    PM Modi inaugurates projects worth ₹47,600 crore in Kanpur, highlights India’s self-reliance in defence sector
    Source: Government of India Source: Government of India (4) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday laid the foundation stone for development and defence-related projects worth approximately ₹47,600 crore during his visit to Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh. Addressing a large public gathering, the Prime Minister said that the visit, initially scheduled for April 24, was postponed following […]

    Operation Sindoor is India’s frontal assault on terrorism, says Defence Minister Rajnath Singh
    Source: Government of India Source: Government of India (4) Defence Minister Rajnath Singh termed Operation Sindoor as India’s bold and decisive response to terrorism, emphasizing that the mission is “not over, but just a pause.” Addressing officers and sailors aboard India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant, off the Goa coast on Friday, Singh delivered […]

    MIL-OSI United Kingdom: TRA proposes countervailing measure on PET from India be kept
    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments Press release TRA proposes countervailing measure on PET from India be kept The TRA has set out its intended recommendation in a Statement of Essential Facts for its review of countervailing measures on PET from India. Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) The Trade Remedies Authority (TRA) has published its […]

    MIL-OSI Banking: Scheduled Banks’ Statement of Position in India as on Friday, May 16, 2025
    Source: Reserve Bank of India (Amount in ₹ crore)   SCHEDULED COMMERCIAL BANKS(Including RRBs, SFBs and PBs) ALL SCHEDULED BANKS 17-May-2024 02-May-2025* 16-May-2025* 17-May-2024 02-May-2025* 16-May-2025* I LIABILITIES TO THE BKG.SYSTEM (A)               a) Demand & Time deposits from banks 289665.55 349543.61 356140.08 293548.27 355582.28 362127.16**   b) Borrowings […]

    Sanjay Jha-led delegation meets Islamic leaders in Indonesia, reaffirms India’s zero-tolerance stand against terrorism
    Source: Government of India Source: Government of India (4) An all-party Indian parliamentary delegation, led by JD-U MP Sanjay Kumar Jha, on Friday met with KH Ulil Abshar Abdalla, Chairman of the Nahdlatul Ulama Executive Board (PBNU), and Kholili Kholil, Committee Member of Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) in Indonesia, the world’s largest Islamic organisation, and sought […]

    Operation Sindoor outreach: Ravi Shankar Prasad-led delegation receives briefing on India-Denmark relations
    Source: Government of India Source: Government of India (4) An all-party Indian parliamentary delegation led by senior BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad was given a comprehensive briefing on Thursday by Indian Ambassador to Denmark, Manish Prabhat, as part of India’s ongoing diplomatic outreach under Operation Sindoor. The briefing focused on the India-Denmark Green Strategic Partnership, […]

    India working towards becoming food bank of the world: Shivraj Singh
    Source: Government of India Source: Government of India (4) India is working towards becoming the “food bank of the world” under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said on Thursday. He was speaking at the launch of the Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan at the Odisha University of Agriculture […]

    MIL-OSI New Zealand: New Zealand and India: A broad-based, enduring partnership
    Source: New Zealand Government [Speech to the Ananta Aspen Centre, New Delhi, India]Namaste, good afternoon. Ms Indrani Bagchi, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen. Thank you for the chance to speak with you today. Over the past 18 months, New Zealand and India have been working hard to deepen the excellent relations developing between us.It’s great to […]

    India to be fastest-growing economy for next 30 years: Piyush Goyal
    Source: Government of India Source: Government of India (4) India is poised to remain the fastest-growing large economy for the next three decades, with a sustained annual growth rate of 6–7%, Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said on Thursday. Speaking at the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Annual Business Summit 2025, Goyal said […]

    Operation Sindoor outreach: Tharoor-led delegation reaffirms India’s anti-terror stand in Colombia
    Source: Government of India Source: Government of India (4) An all-party Indian parliamentary delegation led by Congress MP Shashi Tharoor arrived in Colombia on Thursday, continuing its diplomatic outreach in Latin America to highlight India’s zero-tolerance stance on terrorism and strengthen bilateral ties with key regional partners. Sharing an update from Bogotá, Tharoor posted on […]

    India’s All-Party Delegation concludes anti-terror mission in Saudi Arabia
    Source: Government of India Source: Government of India (4) An All-Party Parliamentary delegation from India concluded its three-day diplomatic mission to Saudi Arabia on Thursday, emphasizing India’s unwavering stance against terrorism in the wake of recent cross-border attacks. Led by BJP MP Baijayant Panda, the delegation held extensive interactions with Saudi think tanks and the […]

    Indian stock market opens flat amid stable institutional investments
    Source: Government of India Source: Government of India (4) Indian benchmark indices opened on a flat note on Friday, tracking weak cues from Asian markets and early pressure in IT and auto stocks. Analysts suggest the market is likely to remain in a consolidation phase in the near term due to the absence of strong […]

  • China – A Roundup of Significant Articles on ForeignAffairs.co.nz for May 31, 2025

    China: Here is a summary of significant articles published on ForeignAffairs.co.nz on May 31, 2025.

    MIL-OSI China: China appoints new director for liaison office of central gov’t in HKSAR
    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News BEIJING, May 30 — China’s State Council announced on Friday that Zhou Ji was appointed director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), and national security adviser to the Committee for Safeguarding National Security of the […]

    MIL-OSI China: Vice premier urges top scientists to scale sci-tech peaks, boost China’s self-reliance
    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News Vice premier urges top scientists to scale sci-tech peaks, boost China’s self-reliance BEIJING, May 30 — Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang on Friday called on academicians of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) to pioneer breakthroughs in core technologies and cultivate talent to build China into […]

    MIL-OSI Security: British and Chinese Nationals Indicted for Alleged Plot to Silence U.S. Dissident and Smuggle U.S. Military Technology to China
    Source: Office of United States Attorneys LOS ANGELES – Federal grand juries in Los Angeles and Milwaukee each have returned indictments charging two foreign nationals, Cui Guanghai, 43, of China, and John Miller, 63, of the United Kingdom and a U.S. lawful permanent resident, with interstate stalking and conspiracy to commit interstate stalking (Los Angeles) […]

    MIL-OSI Russia: Vice Chairman of China addresses opening ceremony of 4th Dialogue on Inter-Civilizational Exchanges and Mutual Learning
    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 LANZHOU, May 30 (Xinhua) — Chinese Vice President Han Zheng has called for eliminating disunity and misunderstanding through dialogue and communication to promote harmonious coexistence among different […]

    MIL-OSI USA: Two Foreign Nationals Indicted for Plot to Silence U.S. Dissident and Smuggle U.S. Military Technology to China
    Source: US State Government of Utah Defendants Charged in Los Angeles and Milwaukee with Interstate Stalking, Arms Export Violations, and Smuggling Federal grand juries in Milwaukee and Los Angeles each returned indictments charging two foreign nationals, Cui Guanghai, 43, of China, and John Miller, 63, of the United Kingdom and a U.S. lawful permanent resident, […]

    MIL-OSI Security: Two Foreign Nationals Indicted for Plot to Silence U.S. Dissident and Smuggle U.S. Military Technology to China
    Source: United States Department of Justice Criminal Division Defendants Charged in Los Angeles and Milwaukee with Interstate Stalking, Arms Export Violations, and Smuggling Federal grand juries in Milwaukee and Los Angeles each returned indictments charging two foreign nationals, Cui Guanghai, 43, of China, and John Miller, 63, of the United Kingdom and a U.S. lawful […]

    MIL-OSI Russia: China’s State Council appoints new head of Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
    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, May 30 (Xinhua) — China’s State Council announced Friday that Zhou Ji has been appointed director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in […]

    MIL-OSI Russia: China’s State Council appoints new director of Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
    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, May 30 (Xinhua) — China’s State Council announced Friday that Zhou Ji has been appointed director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in […]

    MIL-OSI Russia: Vice Premier of the State Council of China calls on leading scientists to achieve scientific and technological peaks and enhance China’s self-sufficiency
    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, May 30 (Xinhua) — Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang on Friday called on members of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) to pioneer key technologies and […]

    MIL-OSI Russia: China’s overseas portfolio investment volume reached US$1.42 trillion by end of 2024
    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, May 30 (Xinhua) — China’s overseas portfolio investment (excluding reserve assets) reached 1.42 trillion U.S. dollars by the end of 2024, official data released by the […]

    MIL-OSI Russia: China celebrates outstanding scientists with museum event on National Scientists’ Day
    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, May 30 (Xinhua) — China celebrated National Scientists’ Day on May 30, with exhibits related to the achievements of outstanding scientists on display at a museum. […]

    MIL-OSI Russia: Khorgos checkpoint handled over 4,000 China-Europe freight train trips in January-May
    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 URUMQI, May 30 (Xinhua) — Horgos Port, a major railway hub in northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, has handled more than 4,000 China-Europe (Central Asia) freight […]

    MIL-OSI Russia: China’s child health care steadily improves: National Health Commission
    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, May 30 (Xinhua) — China’s child health care has been steadily improving in recent years, Shen Haiping, a senior official with the National Health Commission, said […]

    MIL-OSI China: China honors outstanding scientists in museum on Sci-tech Workers’ Day
    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News BEIJING, May 30 — China commemorated its National Sci-tech Workers’ Day on Friday as artifacts related with outstanding scientists were displayed in a museum dedicated to their achievements. The China Scientists Museum in Beijing showcased 10 significant items, including a group photo of scientists involved in […]

    MIL-OSI Russia: In January-April, the number of interregional trips in China increased by 3.8 percent.
    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, May 30 (Xinhua) — China’s transport sector saw 22.74 billion inter-regional trips in the first four months of this year, data released by the Ministry of […]

    MIL-OSI Russia: China’s international trade in goods and services grew by 6 percent in April.
    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, May 30 (Xinhua) — China’s international trade in goods and services reached 4.37 trillion yuan (606.8 billion U.S. dollars) in April, up 6 percent year on […]

    MIL-OSI Russia: China steps up crackdown on harmful information about university entrance exams
    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, May 30 (Xinhua) — China’s Ministry of Education is working with the Office of the Central Cyberspace Commission and the Ministry of Public Security to curb […]

    MIL-OSI Russia: Beijing airports record tax refunds for overseas travelers leaving China
    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, May 30 (Xinhua) — Customs offices at Beijing’s two major airports processed 369 million yuan (about 51.4 million U.S. dollars) in tax refunds from outbound overseas […]

    Division between US and China is the biggest risk confronting world now, France’s Macron says
    Source: Government of India Source: Government of India (4) French President Emmanuel Macron said on Friday that division between the two superpowers, the United States and China, is the main risk currently confronting the world as he emphasized the need for building new coalitions between Paris and partners in the Indo-Pacific. Macron is visiting the […]

    MIL-OSI China: Zheng halts Mboko’s run to book place in Roland Garros last 16
    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News Paris Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen of China continued her strong run at the French Open on Friday, advancing to the women’s singles Round of 16 with a straight-sets win over 18-year-old Canadian qualifier Victoria Mboko. The eighth seed needed just under 90 minutes to beat Mboko […]

  • Economy – A Roundup of Significant Articles on ForeignAffairs.co.nz for May 31, 2025

    Economy: Here is a summary of significant articles published on ForeignAffairs.co.nz on May 31, 2025.

    MIL-OSI Canada: Update on the Canadian Food Inspection Agency’s actions at an HPAI infected premise at a British Columbia ostrich farm
    Source: Government of Canada News The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and Canada’s national poultry sectors have been responding to detections of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in Canada since December 2021. Industry has been highly supportive of the CFIA in its response to HPAI, working collaboratively to implement control measures and protect animal health. […]

    MIL-OSI USA: Governor Polis Signs Bills In Grand Junction and Western Slope to Support Outdoor Recreation and Protect the Great Outdoors
    Source: US State of Colorado GRAND JUNCTION – Today, Governor Polis signed bills in Grand Junction to support outdoor recreation and protect the great outdoors that Colorado is known for. Governor Polis signed the bipartisan SB25-174 – Sunset Outfitters & Guides, sponsored by Senators Dylan Roberts and Cleave Simpson and Representatives Meghan Lukens and Matt […]

    MIL-OSI USA: Shaheen Discusses Local Effects of Proposed Medicaid and Affordable Care Act Cuts with Health Care Leaders, Marks Introduction of Legislation to Protect Connecticut River Watershed at Kilham Bear Center
    US Senate News: Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen (Lyme, NH) – Today, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) hosted a roundtable in Lebanon to discuss the local impacts of Congressional Republicans’ bill to make unprecedented cuts to Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Shaheen also visited the Kilham Bear Center in […]

    MIL-OSI USA: After Leading Congressional Delegation to Canada, Shaheen Highlights Harms of Trump’s Tariffs on Local Businesses and Summer Tourism
    US Senate News: Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen (Moultonborough, NH) – After leading a bipartisan Congressional delegation (CODEL) to Canada last week, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) highlighted the local impacts of President Trump’s sweeping tariffs on Granite State businesses at Colby Footwear in Rochester and discussed the negative effects on […]

    MIL-OSI USA: Baldwin Slams Trump Administrations’ Cuts to Vital Job Training Program for Wisconsin Workers, Businesses
    US Senate News: Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health, and Human Services, released the following statement after the Trump Administration announced it is cutting funding for Job Corps and closing centers nationwide, including in Milwaukee. […]

    MIL-OSI USA: Padilla, Marshall Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Spur Plant Biostimulant Research and Development
    US Senate News: Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) Padilla, Marshall Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Spur Plant Biostimulant Research and Development LOS ANGELES, CA — U.S. Senators Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) and Roger Marshall (R-Kan.) introduced the Plant Biostimulant Act to create a uniform federal definition for plant biostimulants, establish a consistent regulatory pathway […]

    MIL-OSI Russia: IMF Executive Board Concludes 2025 Article IV Consultation with Bolivia
    Source: IMF – News in Russian May 30, 2025 Washington, DC: The Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) completed the Article IV consultation[1] for Bolivia on May 2. The authorities have consented to the publication of the Staff Report prepared for this consultation.[2] Bolivia’s real GDP growth has moderated to 2.1 percent in […]

    MIL-OSI Russia: Mikhail Mishustin approved decisions on measures to support the coal industry
    Translation. Region: Russian Federal Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article. Coal enterprises will receive additional support, which should ensure their further stable development in the current unfavorable economic situation. This decision was maderesults of the meeting on the situation in the coal industry, which […]

    MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Chernyshenko assessed the work of educational and scientific institutions in Nizhny Novgorod
    Translation. Region: Russian Federal Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article. Dmitry Chernyshenko’s working visit to Nizhny Novgorod. The Deputy Prime Minister spoke with students and teachers at the Nizhny Novgorod Automotive Technical School May 30, 2025 Dmitry Chernyshenko’s working visit to Nizhny Novgorod. At […]

    MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Chernyshenko: The results of the final of the Professionals championship in creative industries and IT were summed up in Nizhny Novgorod
    Translation. Region: Russian Federal Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article. Dmitry Chernyshenko and Minister of Education Sergey Kravtsov took part in the award ceremony for the finalists of the Professionals championship in Nizhny Novgorod May 30, 2025 Dmitry Chernyshenko took part in the award […]

    MIL-OSI New Zealand: Tertiary Education – Te Pūkenga continues strong growth in international education amidst ongoing sector change
    Source: Te Pukenga Thursday 29 May 2025 – Te Pūkenga continues strong growth in international education amidst ongoing sector change Te Pūkenga – New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology continues its growth trajectory in international student numbers, with enrolments, revenue, and international partnerships, all increasing strongly. Te Pūkenga Chief Executive Gus Gilmore acknowledged the hard work […]

    MIL-OSI New Zealand: Local News – Porirua City Council to launch pilot Waste Minimisation Grant scheme
    Source: Porirua City Council A pilot scheme offering grants to Porirua projects that enable waste minimisation in the city was approved at a full Porirua City Council meeting this morning. Starting in the 2025/26 financial year, part of the funds received by Porirua City Council from the Waste Levy Subsidy will be used to provide community […]

    MIL-OSI USA: Father and son indicted for providing material support to Mexican cartel engaged in terrorism following ICE Rio Grande Valley, federal partner investigation
    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement BROWNSVILLE, Texas – Two family members with ties to South Texas have been charged with allegedly conspiring to materially support a Mexican cartel previously designated as a foreign terrorist organization, conspiracy to commit money laundering and related smuggling charges, following an investigation conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, […]

    MIL-OSI USA: Senators Marshall and Padilla Introduce Bipartisan Plant Biostimulant Act to Advance Agricultural Innovation
    US Senate News: Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall Washington – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas) joined U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-California) to introduce the Plant Biostimulant Act to establish a standardized process for approving the commercial use of plant biostimulants as alternatives to synthetic pesticides and fertilizers. Plant biostimulants have demonstrated potential in advancing […]

    MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick Statement on SCOTUS Decision to End Humanitarian Parole Programs
    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-Florida 20th district)) Washington, D.C. –“This ruling isn’t just a blow to the rights and safety of these legal immigrants—it’s also a direct attack on South Florida’s economy. This reckless measure threatens our economy by failing to allocate funds for training Americans for these jobs.  […]

    MIL-OSI USA: Low-level fixed-wing flights to image geology of Michigan and Wisconsin
    Source: US Geological Survey Most of the surveying is expected to be completed by the late autumn of 2025; however, surveying may continue in the spring and summer of 2026 to avoid adverse weather conditions. The Michigan and Wisconsin flights are part of a national effort to map critical mineral resources needed to drive the […]

    MIL-OSI United Nations: Deputy Secretary-General’s remarks at the Opening Session of the International Conference for Glaciers’ Preservation [as delivered]
    Source: United Nations secretary general Your Excellency Mr. Emomali Rahmon, President of the Republic of Tajikistan, Your Excellency, the Prime Minister of Pakistan, Mr.  Shehbaz Sharif, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen, I would like to extend my warmest congratulations to the Government and the people of the Republic of Tajikistan for convening this High-Level International Conference […]

    MIL-OSI Canada: Minister’s statement on official opening of Blackwater Mine
    Jagrup Brar, Minister of Mining and Critical Minerals, has released the following statement in recognition of the official opening of the new Blackwater Mine: “I am thrilled to congratulate Artemis Gold Inc. on the grand opening of the Blackwater Mine. This new mine has already created hundreds of good jobs, helping boost the local economy […]

    MIL-OSI USA: McGovern, Latta, Stevens, Obernolte Announce Re-launch of Congressional Robotics Caucus
    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jim McGovern (D-MA) Today, Representatives Jim McGovern (D-MA), Bob Latta (R-OH), Haley Stevens (D-MI), and Jay Obernolte (R-CA) announce the re-launch of the Congressional Robotics Caucus. Representatives McGovern, Latta, Stevens, and Obernolte will serve as Co-Chairs of the Caucus. The Congressional Robotics Caucus is a bipartisan effort […]

    MIL-OSI Economics: Fannie Mae Releases April 2025 Monthly Summary
    Source: Fannie Mae WASHINGTON, DC – Fannie Mae’s (FNMA/OTCQB) April 2025 Monthly Summary is now available. The monthly summary report contains information about Fannie Mae’s monthly and year-to-date activities for our gross mortgage portfolio, mortgage-backed securities and other guarantees, interest rate risk measures, and serious delinquency rates. MIL OSI Economics –

  • Business – A Roundup of Significant Articles on ForeignAffairs.co.nz for May 31, 2025

    Business: Here is a summary of significant articles published on ForeignAffairs.co.nz on May 31, 2025.

    MIL-OSI: Trillion Energy Announces Debt Settlements
    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI) Vancouver, B.C. , May 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Trillion Energy International Inc. (“Trillion” or the “Company”) (CSE: TCF) (OTCQB: TRLEF) (Frankfurt: Z62), announces that it proposes to issue an aggregate of 2,237,082 common shares of the Company in settlement of $101,854.10 in debt owed by the Company to consultants and an officer of the […]

    MIL-OSI: EAT & BEYOND ANNOUNCES PROPOSED NAME CHANGE AND UPDATED INVESTMENT POLICY
    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI) VANCOUVER, BC, May 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Eat & Beyond Global Holdings Inc. (CSE: EATS) (OTCPK: EATBF) (FSE: 988) (“Eat & Beyond” or the “Company”), is pleased to announce that it is proposing a name change and an expansion of its Investment Policy to reflect a change in strategic focus. Proposed Name […]

    MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom announces appointments 5.30.25
    Source: US State of California Governor May 30, 2025 SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments: Connie Nakano, of Elk Grove, has been appointed Assistant Director of the Office of Strategic Initiatives and Equity at the Department of Aging. Nakano has been Assistant Director of Communications at the Department of Aging since 2021. She was […]

    MIL-OSI USA: Governor Polis Signs Bills In Grand Junction and Western Slope to Support Outdoor Recreation and Protect the Great Outdoors
    Source: US State of Colorado GRAND JUNCTION – Today, Governor Polis signed bills in Grand Junction to support outdoor recreation and protect the great outdoors that Colorado is known for. Governor Polis signed the bipartisan SB25-174 – Sunset Outfitters & Guides, sponsored by Senators Dylan Roberts and Cleave Simpson and Representatives Meghan Lukens and Matt […]

    MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Homes fit for heroes with extra £1.5 billion for forces housing through upcoming Strategic Defence Review
    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements Press release Homes fit for heroes with extra £1.5 billion for forces housing through upcoming Strategic Defence Review Record additional funding for forces family housing to tackle state of accommodation, and builds on the Defence Consumer Charter to transform living conditions for service families. More than £1.5 billion extra […]

    MIL-OSI USA: Baldwin Holds Trump Accountable for Unlawfully Dismantling Minority Business Development Agency
    US Senate News: Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) joined her colleagues in demanding the Trump Administration detail its compliance with a May 13 federal court injunction that ordered it to stop the illegal dismantling of the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) and restore the […]

    MIL-OSI Security: Hammond Woman Sentenced to Two Years for Cares Act Fraud
    Source: Office of United States Attorneys NEW ORLEANS – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that TRACIE L. MIXON (“MIXON”), age 43, of Hammond, LA, was sentenced on May 27, 2025 to two (2) years in prison by U.S. District Judge Susie Morgan, after previously pleading guilty to making false statements related to the Coronavirus Aid, […]

    MIL-OSI Security: New Orleans Man Sentenced to 5 Years of Probation for Cares Act Fraud, Money Laundering and False Tax Filing
    Source: Office of United States Attorneys NEW ORLEANS – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that CLIFTON C. JAMES (“JAMES”), age 50, of New Orleans, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Jane Triche-Milazzo to 5 years of probation for making false statements, theft of government funds, and money laundering related to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, […]

    MIL-OSI Security: Mexico City-Based Attorney Pleads Guilty in $52 Million Dollar Sinaloa Cartel Money Laundering Scheme
    Source: Office of United States Attorneys SAN DIEGO – Hector Alejandro Paez Garcia, a Mexico City-based attorney, has pleaded guilty in federal court, admitting that he and others conspired to transport, transmit, and transfer tens of millions of dollars in drug trafficking proceeds from the United States to Mexico. Paez’s plea is part of a […]

    MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Lawler Concludes Bipartisan Middle East CODEL on Enhancing Regional Partnerships
    Source: US Congressman Mike Lawler (R, NY-17) Washington, D.C. – 5/30/25… This week, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17), Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on the Middle East and North Africa, concluded a bipartisan Congressional Delegation (CODEL) to Saudi Arabia, Israel, and Jordan, where he and fellow House Foreign Affairs Committee members engaged with regional […]

    MIL-OSI USA: After Leading Congressional Delegation to Canada, Shaheen Highlights Harms of Trump’s Tariffs on Local Businesses and Summer Tourism
    US Senate News: Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen (Moultonborough, NH) – After leading a bipartisan Congressional delegation (CODEL) to Canada last week, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) highlighted the local impacts of President Trump’s sweeping tariffs on Granite State businesses at Colby Footwear in Rochester and discussed the negative effects on […]

    MIL-OSI USA: Padilla, Marshall Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Spur Plant Biostimulant Research and Development
    US Senate News: Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) Padilla, Marshall Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Spur Plant Biostimulant Research and Development LOS ANGELES, CA — U.S. Senators Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) and Roger Marshall (R-Kan.) introduced the Plant Biostimulant Act to create a uniform federal definition for plant biostimulants, establish a consistent regulatory pathway […]

    MIL-OSI USA: Senator Collins Announces More Than $4.2 Million for Airport Improvements Across Maine
    US Senate News: Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins Published: May 30, 2025 Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced that eleven Maine airports will receive a total of $4,201,355 to support important infrastructure improvements. This funding comes from the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Fiscal Year […]

    MIL-OSI USA: Senator Collins Announces More Than $29 Million to Increase Access to Affordable Housing, Improve Public Services in Maine
    US Senate News: Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced that multiple Maine localities will receive $29,017,396 in federal funding through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Community Planning and Development (CPD) formula grant programs. CPD programs […]

    MIL-OSI Russia: IMF Executive Board Concludes 2025 Article IV Consultation with Bolivia
    Source: IMF – News in Russian May 30, 2025 Washington, DC: The Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) completed the Article IV consultation[1] for Bolivia on May 2. The authorities have consented to the publication of the Staff Report prepared for this consultation.[2] Bolivia’s real GDP growth has moderated to 2.1 percent in […]

    MIL-OSI Russia: Mikhail Mishustin approved decisions on measures to support the coal industry
    Translation. Region: Russian Federal Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article. Coal enterprises will receive additional support, which should ensure their further stable development in the current unfavorable economic situation. This decision was maderesults of the meeting on the situation in the coal industry, which […]

    MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Patrushev: It is necessary to continue to open new markets for the development of Russian grain exports
    Translation. Region: Russian Federal Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article. Dmitry Patrushev spoke at the IV All-Russian Grain Forum – 2025 May 30, 2025 Dmitry Patrushev spoke at the IV All-Russian Grain Forum – 2025 May 30, 2025 IV All-Russian Grain Forum – 2025 […]

    MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: Citizens transfer pension savings to PDS
    Translation. Region: Russian Federal Source: Central Bank of Russia – The number of citizens forming pension savings in non-state pension funds (NPF) decreased by 564 thousand people, to 35.4 million people, according to the results of the first quarter. This mainly happened because NPF clients are actively joining the long-term savings program (LTSP) and transferring […]

    MIL-OSI Russia: Denis Manturov launched the production of a new Sollers car model and donated a bus to a large family from Ingushetia
    Translation. Region: Russian Federal Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article. Denis Manturov, as part of a working visit to Tatarstan, took part in the launch ceremony of the new generation Sollers SF5 light commercial vehicle production May 30, 2025 Denis Manturov handed over a […]

    MIL-OSI Africa: Secretary-General’s remarks to the Africa Dialogue Series High-Level Policy Dialogue [bilingual as delivered; scroll down for all-English and all-French]
    Source: United Nations – English his year’s dialogue focuses on “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations”. This is also the African Union’s theme for 2025, as it was already said. And it is a call gathering momentum around the world – from Freetown to Bridgetown.  Understandably so. Africa is a continent […]