Category: AM-NC

MIL-OSI New Zealand: Top of the South state highway update – response work continuing across the region

Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) contractors are hard at work at several state highway sites across the top of the South Island, as the massive clean-up and repair job in the region continues.

The summary below outlines the current status of the region’s state highway network.

SH6 Rocks Road – CLOSED
State Highway 6 Rocks Road remains CLOSED between Bisley Avenue and Richardson Street, while work continues to assess the slip and rockfall, and to remove loose material and vegetation.

“Areas at the top of the cliff have been destabilised by the heavy rain. We’re working to remove the loose material and vegetation from the top of the cliff so that the road can be safely reopened as soon as possible,” says Rob Service, NZTA System Manager Nelson/Tasman.

The route remains closed to all traffic, cyclists, and pedestrians until further notice. NZTA is reminding everyone not to go beyond the closure points on Rocks Road, as there is serious danger from potential falling debris, while contractors work to remove material from the cliff face.

To allow people to access businesses and shops on Rocks Road, there is a ‘soft closure’ in place at the intersection of Russell Street, but no travel is permitted between Bisley Avenue and Richardson Street.

NZTA will provide updates as further information is available.

SH60 Takaka Hill – OPEN
State Highway 60 Tākaka Hill is OPEN to light and heavy vehicles, but the road has suffered slip and washout damage and extra care and time is needed when travelling this route. The road remains vulnerable to further disruptions and possible closure.

There are active worksites on Takaka Hill which are under temporary speed restrictions and single lane sections, both operating 24/7. Please be careful and patient when driving over the hill and adhere to the temporary speed limits.

SH6 Belgrove to Kohatu – OPEN
State Highway 6 is OPEN between Belgrove and Kohatu. Extra care and time is needed when travelling this route. There are three active worksites in this section of road under temporary speed restrictions 24/7 and one single lane section controlled by traffic lights.

SH63 – OPEN to residents and essential travel only
SH63 between Waihopai Valley Road and Korere-Tophouse Road is open for residents and those with essential travel needs only.

General advice

All other state highways are open, but it is not business as usual on the roads or for driving.

Across the network, because of weather damage, drivers must drive to the conditions and take extreme care when travelling. There remains an ongoing risk of slips, rock and tree falls, and the potential for further road closures. These may happen at short notice.

Road users can expect to encounter multiple road work and repair sites across the region and must allow extra time for their journeys.

Please follow all traffic management and temporary speed limits in place. They are there to keep the public and work crews safe.

More information

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

July 15, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong cinema’s cultural legacy celebrated in New York (with photos)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Hong Kong cinema is taking centre stage at this year’s New York Asian Film Festival (NYAFF) with the “Hong Kong Panorama” series, a curated showcase of 10 dynamic films being presented with support from the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in New York (New York ETO).

A star-studded award presentation was held prior to the North American premiere of “Last Song For You” this evening (July 14, New York time) at the esteemed Film at Lincoln Center. The film’s lead actor, Ekin Cheng, was honoured with the prestigious Star Asia Award, recognising his legendary contributions across film, television, and music, as well as his enduring impact on Hong Kong’s popular culture.

Cheng’s co-star Natalie Hsu received the Screen International Rising Star Award, highlighting her breakout performances and her bright future on the global stage.

The New York ETO hosted a special reception before the award presentation in honour of the visiting Hong Kong film talent participating in this year’s Festival. Among them are actors, directors, and creatives whose work is helping to shape the next chapter of Hong Kong cinema.

Speaking at the reception, the Director of the New York ETO, Ms Maisie Ho, highlighted the lineup for this year’s Festival. “This year we’re proud to showcase 10 diverse Hong Kong films, from romantic comedies and crime thrillers to powerful action dramas. Over half of them are having their North American premieres right here at NYAFF – proof that Hong Kong cinema continues to innovate, inspire, and resonate across borders,” she said.

Ms Ho added that four of these films are marking directorial debuts. They are: Jill Leung’s “Last Song For You”; Jack Lai’s “Possession Street”; Trevor Choi’s “Smashing Frank”; and “Valley of the Shadow of Death” by Jeffrey Lam and Antonio Tam.

“Three films, ‘Last Song For You’, ‘Papa’ and ‘Possession Street’, were made possible with support from the Hong Kong Film Development Fund. It’s this mix of rising talent and strong institutional backing that keeps our film industry vibrant, evolving, and ready for the world stage,” she added.

Ms Ho went on to extend warm congratulations to the honourees. She praised Cheng for his 37-year career and for helping shape the cultural DNA of Hong Kong entertainment, and lauded Hsu as a gifted and dynamic artist representing the bold future of Hong Kong cinema.

To further honour Cheng’s legacy, the NYAFF held a special retrospective screening of his iconic film “Young and Dangerous”, celebrating the blockbuster’s 30th anniversary and its enduring impact on a generation of filmmakers and audiences.

In addition to Cheng and Hsu, a stellar delegation of Hong Kong filmmakers are attending this year’s NYAFF. They include actor George Au actress Hedwig Tam, directors Oliver Chan, Trevor Choi, Jack Lai, Jeffrey Lam, Jill Leung, Antonio Tam, Adam Wong, and composer Chan Kwong-wing – all showcasing the creative talent propelling Hong Kong cinema into the future.

Adding to this year’s celebration, acclaimed Chinese-American actress Lisa Lu was presented with both the Trailblazer Award and the Star Asia Lifetime Achievement Award, honouring her groundbreaking career and indelible contributions to cinema across the United States, and Greater China including Hong Kong.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

July 15, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong cinema’s cultural legacy celebrated in New York (with photos)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Hong Kong cinema is taking centre stage at this year’s New York Asian Film Festival (NYAFF) with the “Hong Kong Panorama” series, a curated showcase of 10 dynamic films being presented with support from the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in New York (New York ETO).

A star-studded award presentation was held prior to the North American premiere of “Last Song For You” this evening (July 14, New York time) at the esteemed Film at Lincoln Center. The film’s lead actor, Ekin Cheng, was honoured with the prestigious Star Asia Award, recognising his legendary contributions across film, television, and music, as well as his enduring impact on Hong Kong’s popular culture.

Cheng’s co-star Natalie Hsu received the Screen International Rising Star Award, highlighting her breakout performances and her bright future on the global stage.

The New York ETO hosted a special reception before the award presentation in honour of the visiting Hong Kong film talent participating in this year’s Festival. Among them are actors, directors, and creatives whose work is helping to shape the next chapter of Hong Kong cinema.

Speaking at the reception, the Director of the New York ETO, Ms Maisie Ho, highlighted the lineup for this year’s Festival. “This year we’re proud to showcase 10 diverse Hong Kong films, from romantic comedies and crime thrillers to powerful action dramas. Over half of them are having their North American premieres right here at NYAFF – proof that Hong Kong cinema continues to innovate, inspire, and resonate across borders,” she said.

Ms Ho added that four of these films are marking directorial debuts. They are: Jill Leung’s “Last Song For You”; Jack Lai’s “Possession Street”; Trevor Choi’s “Smashing Frank”; and “Valley of the Shadow of Death” by Jeffrey Lam and Antonio Tam.

“Three films, ‘Last Song For You’, ‘Papa’ and ‘Possession Street’, were made possible with support from the Hong Kong Film Development Fund. It’s this mix of rising talent and strong institutional backing that keeps our film industry vibrant, evolving, and ready for the world stage,” she added.

Ms Ho went on to extend warm congratulations to the honourees. She praised Cheng for his 37-year career and for helping shape the cultural DNA of Hong Kong entertainment, and lauded Hsu as a gifted and dynamic artist representing the bold future of Hong Kong cinema.

To further honour Cheng’s legacy, the NYAFF held a special retrospective screening of his iconic film “Young and Dangerous”, celebrating the blockbuster’s 30th anniversary and its enduring impact on a generation of filmmakers and audiences.

In addition to Cheng and Hsu, a stellar delegation of Hong Kong filmmakers are attending this year’s NYAFF. They include actor George Au actress Hedwig Tam, directors Oliver Chan, Trevor Choi, Jack Lai, Jeffrey Lam, Jill Leung, Antonio Tam, Adam Wong, and composer Chan Kwong-wing – all showcasing the creative talent propelling Hong Kong cinema into the future.

Adding to this year’s celebration, acclaimed Chinese-American actress Lisa Lu was presented with both the Trailblazer Award and the Star Asia Lifetime Achievement Award, honouring her groundbreaking career and indelible contributions to cinema across the United States, and Greater China including Hong Kong.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

July 15, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong cinema’s cultural legacy celebrated in New York (with photos)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Hong Kong cinema is taking centre stage at this year’s New York Asian Film Festival (NYAFF) with the “Hong Kong Panorama” series, a curated showcase of 10 dynamic films being presented with support from the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in New York (New York ETO).

A star-studded award presentation was held prior to the North American premiere of “Last Song For You” this evening (July 14, New York time) at the esteemed Film at Lincoln Center. The film’s lead actor, Ekin Cheng, was honoured with the prestigious Star Asia Award, recognising his legendary contributions across film, television, and music, as well as his enduring impact on Hong Kong’s popular culture.

Cheng’s co-star Natalie Hsu received the Screen International Rising Star Award, highlighting her breakout performances and her bright future on the global stage.

The New York ETO hosted a special reception before the award presentation in honour of the visiting Hong Kong film talent participating in this year’s Festival. Among them are actors, directors, and creatives whose work is helping to shape the next chapter of Hong Kong cinema.

Speaking at the reception, the Director of the New York ETO, Ms Maisie Ho, highlighted the lineup for this year’s Festival. “This year we’re proud to showcase 10 diverse Hong Kong films, from romantic comedies and crime thrillers to powerful action dramas. Over half of them are having their North American premieres right here at NYAFF – proof that Hong Kong cinema continues to innovate, inspire, and resonate across borders,” she said.

Ms Ho added that four of these films are marking directorial debuts. They are: Jill Leung’s “Last Song For You”; Jack Lai’s “Possession Street”; Trevor Choi’s “Smashing Frank”; and “Valley of the Shadow of Death” by Jeffrey Lam and Antonio Tam.

“Three films, ‘Last Song For You’, ‘Papa’ and ‘Possession Street’, were made possible with support from the Hong Kong Film Development Fund. It’s this mix of rising talent and strong institutional backing that keeps our film industry vibrant, evolving, and ready for the world stage,” she added.

Ms Ho went on to extend warm congratulations to the honourees. She praised Cheng for his 37-year career and for helping shape the cultural DNA of Hong Kong entertainment, and lauded Hsu as a gifted and dynamic artist representing the bold future of Hong Kong cinema.

To further honour Cheng’s legacy, the NYAFF held a special retrospective screening of his iconic film “Young and Dangerous”, celebrating the blockbuster’s 30th anniversary and its enduring impact on a generation of filmmakers and audiences.

In addition to Cheng and Hsu, a stellar delegation of Hong Kong filmmakers are attending this year’s NYAFF. They include actor George Au actress Hedwig Tam, directors Oliver Chan, Trevor Choi, Jack Lai, Jeffrey Lam, Jill Leung, Antonio Tam, Adam Wong, and composer Chan Kwong-wing – all showcasing the creative talent propelling Hong Kong cinema into the future.

Adding to this year’s celebration, acclaimed Chinese-American actress Lisa Lu was presented with both the Trailblazer Award and the Star Asia Lifetime Achievement Award, honouring her groundbreaking career and indelible contributions to cinema across the United States, and Greater China including Hong Kong.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

July 15, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Capacity Market auction parameters: letter from DESNZ to NESO, July 2025

Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

Correspondence

Capacity Market auction parameters: letter from DESNZ to NESO, July 2025

Letter setting out the Capacity Market auction parameters for the T-1 auction for the 2026 to 2027 Delivery Year, and the T-4 auction for the 2029 to 2030 delivery year.

Documents

Capacity Market auction parameters letter to NESO, 8 July 2025

PDF, 186 KB, 2 pages

Full details of auction parameters and interconnector de-rating factors

HTML

Details

The letter from the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, RT Hon Ed Miliband MP, to the National Energy System Operator (NESO) sets out the parameters for the next Capacity Market auctions. This includes the volume of capacity to be secured for the T-1 auction for the 2026 to 2027 Delivery Year and the T-4 auction for the 2029 to 2030 Delivery Year and interconnector de-rating factors for the T-4 auction.

The annex provides full details of auction parameters and the interconnector de-rating factors.

In line with the annual Capacity Market process, the parameters for the two auctions may be updated following auction prequalification and will be confirmed before the auctions are held in early 2025.

Updates to this page

Published 15 July 2025

Sign up for emails or print this page

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

July 15, 2025
EAM Jaishankar meets Chinese President Xi Jinping, discusses India-China ties

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Tuesday met Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing as part of a delegation of foreign ministers attending the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meeting.

In a post on X, Jaishankar said, “Called on President Xi Jinping this morning in Beijing along with my fellow SCO Foreign Ministers. Conveyed the greetings of President Droupadi Murmu & Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Apprised President Xi of the recent development of our bilateral ties. Value the guidance of our leaders in that regard.”

This marks Jaishankar’s first visit to China since the Galwan Valley clash between Indian and Chinese troops in June 2020. He is in the country to participate in the SCO Council of Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (CFM), being held in Tianjin.

On Monday, Jaishankar held a series of high-level meetings on the sidelines of the CFM.

According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Jaishankar met Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi for bilateral talks.

The two leaders reviewed the current state of India-China ties, acknowledging recent progress in stabilizing and rebuilding relations. Both sides emphasized the importance of people-centric engagement and agreed to enhance cooperation to mark the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations.

Jaishankar expressed appreciation for China’s support in resuming the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and discussed expanding people-to-people exchanges, including improved travel access and direct flight connectivity.

Stressing the need for peace and tranquility along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), Jaishankar reiterated India’s commitment to de-escalation and effective border management.

“He underlined the need for cooperation on trans-border rivers, including resumption of provision of hydrological data by the Chinese side. He also took up restrictive trade measures and roadblocks to economic cooperation,” the MEA said in a statement.

The two ministers also exchanged views on regional and global developments, with Jaishankar affirming India’s support for China’s current SCO presidency.

“The discussions were constructive and forward-looking. The Ministers agreed to remain in touch, including through bilateral visits and meetings,” the MEA said.

Earlier in the day, Jaishankar called on Chinese Vice President Han Zheng and met Liu Jianchao, Minister of the International Department of the Communist Party of China.

“Good to meet IDCPC Minister Liu Jianchao in Beijing. Discussed the changing global order and the emergence of multipolarity. Spoke about a constructive India-China relationship in that context,” Jaishankar said on X.

Founded as a regional security bloc, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation is a permanent intergovernmental organisation comprising India, China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Pakistan, Iran and Belarus. The SCO’s agenda spans counterterrorism, security, economic cooperation, and regional connectivity.

July 15, 2025
EAM Jaishankar meets Chinese President Xi Jinping, discusses India-China ties

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Tuesday met Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing as part of a delegation of foreign ministers attending the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meeting.

In a post on X, Jaishankar said, “Called on President Xi Jinping this morning in Beijing along with my fellow SCO Foreign Ministers. Conveyed the greetings of President Droupadi Murmu & Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Apprised President Xi of the recent development of our bilateral ties. Value the guidance of our leaders in that regard.”

This marks Jaishankar’s first visit to China since the Galwan Valley clash between Indian and Chinese troops in June 2020. He is in the country to participate in the SCO Council of Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (CFM), being held in Tianjin.

On Monday, Jaishankar held a series of high-level meetings on the sidelines of the CFM.

According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Jaishankar met Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi for bilateral talks.

The two leaders reviewed the current state of India-China ties, acknowledging recent progress in stabilizing and rebuilding relations. Both sides emphasized the importance of people-centric engagement and agreed to enhance cooperation to mark the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations.

Jaishankar expressed appreciation for China’s support in resuming the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and discussed expanding people-to-people exchanges, including improved travel access and direct flight connectivity.

Stressing the need for peace and tranquility along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), Jaishankar reiterated India’s commitment to de-escalation and effective border management.

“He underlined the need for cooperation on trans-border rivers, including resumption of provision of hydrological data by the Chinese side. He also took up restrictive trade measures and roadblocks to economic cooperation,” the MEA said in a statement.

The two ministers also exchanged views on regional and global developments, with Jaishankar affirming India’s support for China’s current SCO presidency.

“The discussions were constructive and forward-looking. The Ministers agreed to remain in touch, including through bilateral visits and meetings,” the MEA said.

Earlier in the day, Jaishankar called on Chinese Vice President Han Zheng and met Liu Jianchao, Minister of the International Department of the Communist Party of China.

“Good to meet IDCPC Minister Liu Jianchao in Beijing. Discussed the changing global order and the emergence of multipolarity. Spoke about a constructive India-China relationship in that context,” Jaishankar said on X.

Founded as a regional security bloc, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation is a permanent intergovernmental organisation comprising India, China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Pakistan, Iran and Belarus. The SCO’s agenda spans counterterrorism, security, economic cooperation, and regional connectivity.

July 15, 2025
EAM Jaishankar meets Chinese President Xi Jinping, discusses India-China ties

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Tuesday met Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing as part of a delegation of foreign ministers attending the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meeting.

In a post on X, Jaishankar said, “Called on President Xi Jinping this morning in Beijing along with my fellow SCO Foreign Ministers. Conveyed the greetings of President Droupadi Murmu & Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Apprised President Xi of the recent development of our bilateral ties. Value the guidance of our leaders in that regard.”

This marks Jaishankar’s first visit to China since the Galwan Valley clash between Indian and Chinese troops in June 2020. He is in the country to participate in the SCO Council of Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (CFM), being held in Tianjin.

On Monday, Jaishankar held a series of high-level meetings on the sidelines of the CFM.

According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Jaishankar met Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi for bilateral talks.

The two leaders reviewed the current state of India-China ties, acknowledging recent progress in stabilizing and rebuilding relations. Both sides emphasized the importance of people-centric engagement and agreed to enhance cooperation to mark the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations.

Jaishankar expressed appreciation for China’s support in resuming the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and discussed expanding people-to-people exchanges, including improved travel access and direct flight connectivity.

Stressing the need for peace and tranquility along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), Jaishankar reiterated India’s commitment to de-escalation and effective border management.

“He underlined the need for cooperation on trans-border rivers, including resumption of provision of hydrological data by the Chinese side. He also took up restrictive trade measures and roadblocks to economic cooperation,” the MEA said in a statement.

The two ministers also exchanged views on regional and global developments, with Jaishankar affirming India’s support for China’s current SCO presidency.

“The discussions were constructive and forward-looking. The Ministers agreed to remain in touch, including through bilateral visits and meetings,” the MEA said.

Earlier in the day, Jaishankar called on Chinese Vice President Han Zheng and met Liu Jianchao, Minister of the International Department of the Communist Party of China.

“Good to meet IDCPC Minister Liu Jianchao in Beijing. Discussed the changing global order and the emergence of multipolarity. Spoke about a constructive India-China relationship in that context,” Jaishankar said on X.

Founded as a regional security bloc, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation is a permanent intergovernmental organisation comprising India, China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Pakistan, Iran and Belarus. The SCO’s agenda spans counterterrorism, security, economic cooperation, and regional connectivity.

July 15, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Six killed, 27 injured in road accident in eastern Pakistan

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

ISLAMABAD, July 15 (Xinhua) — At least six people were killed and 27 others injured in a road accident in Pakistan’s eastern Punjab province on Sunday night, traffic police spokesman Saqib Waheed told Xinhua.

According to him, the bus with 41 passengers on board overturned and fell into a ravine. Five people, including four women, died on the spot, and another died in hospital. The injured were hospitalized, seven of them are in critical condition. The investigation showed that the accident occurred due to the driver’s negligence on a road slippery from the rain, S. Wahid noted.

Road accidents in Pakistan have become a worrying problem, with both their frequency and severity increasing significantly in recent years.

The main reasons for the high accident rate are careless driving, poor road conditions and poor vehicle maintenance. –0–

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

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MIL OSI Russia News –

July 15, 2025
PM Modi pays tribute to K. Kamaraj on his birth anniversary

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday paid homage to K. Kamaraj on his birth anniversary.

In a post on X, PM Modi said, “Paying homage to Thiru K. Kamaraj Ji on his birth anniversary. He was at the forefront of India’s freedom struggle and provided invaluable leadership in the formative years of our journey after Independence. His noble ideals and emphasis on social justice inspire us all greatly.”

Kumaraswami Kamaraj was born in Tamil Nadu on July 15, 1903. He was elected unopposed to the Madras Legislative Assembly in 1937 and re-elected in 1946. That same year, he was also elected to the Constituent Assembly of India and later to Parliament in 1952.

Kamaraj became the Chief Minister of Madras in 1954. In 1963, he proposed to Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru that senior Congress leaders should resign from ministerial posts to focus on strengthening the party organisation. This initiative became known as the ‘Kamaraj Plan.’

In recognition of his service to the nation, he was posthumously awarded Bharat Ratna in 1976.

(With inputs from ANI)

July 15, 2025
PM Modi pays tribute to K. Kamaraj on his birth anniversary

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday paid homage to K. Kamaraj on his birth anniversary.

In a post on X, PM Modi said, “Paying homage to Thiru K. Kamaraj Ji on his birth anniversary. He was at the forefront of India’s freedom struggle and provided invaluable leadership in the formative years of our journey after Independence. His noble ideals and emphasis on social justice inspire us all greatly.”

Kumaraswami Kamaraj was born in Tamil Nadu on July 15, 1903. He was elected unopposed to the Madras Legislative Assembly in 1937 and re-elected in 1946. That same year, he was also elected to the Constituent Assembly of India and later to Parliament in 1952.

Kamaraj became the Chief Minister of Madras in 1954. In 1963, he proposed to Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru that senior Congress leaders should resign from ministerial posts to focus on strengthening the party organisation. This initiative became known as the ‘Kamaraj Plan.’

In recognition of his service to the nation, he was posthumously awarded Bharat Ratna in 1976.

(With inputs from ANI)

July 15, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN pays courtesy call on the President of the National Assembly of the Kingdom of Cambodia

Source: ASEAN

Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today joined the Heads or Representatives of ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA) Parliaments from ASEAN Member States, Timor-Leste and AIPA Observer Parliaments, in a courtesy call on the President of the National Assembly of the Kingdom of Cambodia, Samdech Maha Rathsapheathika Thipadei Khuon Sudary, in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, as part of the 16th AIPA Caucus. They discussed ways to enhance AIPA’s role in the ASEAN Community building process, particularly following the adoption of the ASEAN Community Vision 2045 and its Strategic Plans by the ASEAN Leaders at the 46th ASEAN Summit in Malaysia.

The post Secretary-General of ASEAN pays courtesy call on the President of the National Assembly of the Kingdom of Cambodia appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

MIL OSI Economics –

July 15, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN pays courtesy call on the President of the National Assembly of the Kingdom of Cambodia

Source: ASEAN

Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today joined the Heads or Representatives of ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA) Parliaments from ASEAN Member States, Timor-Leste and AIPA Observer Parliaments, in a courtesy call on the President of the National Assembly of the Kingdom of Cambodia, Samdech Maha Rathsapheathika Thipadei Khuon Sudary, in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, as part of the 16th AIPA Caucus. They discussed ways to enhance AIPA’s role in the ASEAN Community building process, particularly following the adoption of the ASEAN Community Vision 2045 and its Strategic Plans by the ASEAN Leaders at the 46th ASEAN Summit in Malaysia.

The post Secretary-General of ASEAN pays courtesy call on the President of the National Assembly of the Kingdom of Cambodia appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

MIL OSI Economics –

July 15, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN pays courtesy call on the President of the National Assembly of the Kingdom of Cambodia

Source: ASEAN

Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today joined the Heads or Representatives of ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA) Parliaments from ASEAN Member States, Timor-Leste and AIPA Observer Parliaments, in a courtesy call on the President of the National Assembly of the Kingdom of Cambodia, Samdech Maha Rathsapheathika Thipadei Khuon Sudary, in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, as part of the 16th AIPA Caucus. They discussed ways to enhance AIPA’s role in the ASEAN Community building process, particularly following the adoption of the ASEAN Community Vision 2045 and its Strategic Plans by the ASEAN Leaders at the 46th ASEAN Summit in Malaysia.

The post Secretary-General of ASEAN pays courtesy call on the President of the National Assembly of the Kingdom of Cambodia appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

MIL OSI Economics –

July 15, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN pays courtesy call on the President of the National Assembly of the Kingdom of Cambodia

Source: ASEAN

Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today joined the Heads or Representatives of ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA) Parliaments from ASEAN Member States, Timor-Leste and AIPA Observer Parliaments, in a courtesy call on the President of the National Assembly of the Kingdom of Cambodia, Samdech Maha Rathsapheathika Thipadei Khuon Sudary, in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, as part of the 16th AIPA Caucus. They discussed ways to enhance AIPA’s role in the ASEAN Community building process, particularly following the adoption of the ASEAN Community Vision 2045 and its Strategic Plans by the ASEAN Leaders at the 46th ASEAN Summit in Malaysia.

The post Secretary-General of ASEAN pays courtesy call on the President of the National Assembly of the Kingdom of Cambodia appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

MIL OSI Economics –

July 15, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Ancelotti hails Brazil’s rise at Club World Cup

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

Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti has hailed the performances of the country’s clubs and individual players at the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States.

The Italian said he was impressed by Fluminense while also praising the feats of Palmeiras, Flamengo and Botafogo, saying they showed Brazilian teams could challenge Europe’s best.

Everaldo (R) of Fluminense vies with Tosin Adarabioyo of Chelsea during the semifinal match between Fluminense FC (Brazil) and Chelsea FC (England) at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 at the MetLife Stadium, New Jersey, the United States, July 8, 2025. (Xinhua/Li Ming)

“Fluminense had a great campaign, reaching the semifinals, and Botafogo beat PSG,” Ancelotti told the Brazilian Football Confederation’s official website.

“Palmeiras and Flamengo also proved they can compete with the best European teams,” he added.

Brazilian players also caught the attention of the 66-year-old, who was appointed Brazil manager in May after leaving Real Madrid.

Among those singled out were Chelsea’s Joao Pedro and Andrey Santos, Real Madrid’s Eder Militao and Palmeiras’ Chelsea-bound teenager Estevao.

“They played very well,” Ancelotti said. “Individually, Estevao put in a great showing. Joao Pedro was decisive in the semifinals and final. Andrey Santos played an important role for Chelsea and Militao came back strong [from injury]. He will be an important player for the national team in the next year.”

Ancelotti was present at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium for Sunday’s final, in which Chelsea beat Paris Saint-Germain 3-0. He said the Premier League club deserved to win the first edition of the expanded global tournament.

“Chelsea deserved it for the consistency they showed throughout the competition,” he said. “They showed that they have high-quality young players, like Cole Palmer and Joao Pedro,” he concluded.

MIL OSI China News –

July 15, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Ancelotti hails Brazil’s rise at Club World Cup

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

Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti has hailed the performances of the country’s clubs and individual players at the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States.

The Italian said he was impressed by Fluminense while also praising the feats of Palmeiras, Flamengo and Botafogo, saying they showed Brazilian teams could challenge Europe’s best.

Everaldo (R) of Fluminense vies with Tosin Adarabioyo of Chelsea during the semifinal match between Fluminense FC (Brazil) and Chelsea FC (England) at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 at the MetLife Stadium, New Jersey, the United States, July 8, 2025. (Xinhua/Li Ming)

“Fluminense had a great campaign, reaching the semifinals, and Botafogo beat PSG,” Ancelotti told the Brazilian Football Confederation’s official website.

“Palmeiras and Flamengo also proved they can compete with the best European teams,” he added.

Brazilian players also caught the attention of the 66-year-old, who was appointed Brazil manager in May after leaving Real Madrid.

Among those singled out were Chelsea’s Joao Pedro and Andrey Santos, Real Madrid’s Eder Militao and Palmeiras’ Chelsea-bound teenager Estevao.

“They played very well,” Ancelotti said. “Individually, Estevao put in a great showing. Joao Pedro was decisive in the semifinals and final. Andrey Santos played an important role for Chelsea and Militao came back strong [from injury]. He will be an important player for the national team in the next year.”

Ancelotti was present at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium for Sunday’s final, in which Chelsea beat Paris Saint-Germain 3-0. He said the Premier League club deserved to win the first edition of the expanded global tournament.

“Chelsea deserved it for the consistency they showed throughout the competition,” he said. “They showed that they have high-quality young players, like Cole Palmer and Joao Pedro,” he concluded.

MIL OSI China News –

July 15, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Ancelotti hails Brazil’s rise at Club World Cup

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

Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti has hailed the performances of the country’s clubs and individual players at the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States.

The Italian said he was impressed by Fluminense while also praising the feats of Palmeiras, Flamengo and Botafogo, saying they showed Brazilian teams could challenge Europe’s best.

Everaldo (R) of Fluminense vies with Tosin Adarabioyo of Chelsea during the semifinal match between Fluminense FC (Brazil) and Chelsea FC (England) at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 at the MetLife Stadium, New Jersey, the United States, July 8, 2025. (Xinhua/Li Ming)

“Fluminense had a great campaign, reaching the semifinals, and Botafogo beat PSG,” Ancelotti told the Brazilian Football Confederation’s official website.

“Palmeiras and Flamengo also proved they can compete with the best European teams,” he added.

Brazilian players also caught the attention of the 66-year-old, who was appointed Brazil manager in May after leaving Real Madrid.

Among those singled out were Chelsea’s Joao Pedro and Andrey Santos, Real Madrid’s Eder Militao and Palmeiras’ Chelsea-bound teenager Estevao.

“They played very well,” Ancelotti said. “Individually, Estevao put in a great showing. Joao Pedro was decisive in the semifinals and final. Andrey Santos played an important role for Chelsea and Militao came back strong [from injury]. He will be an important player for the national team in the next year.”

Ancelotti was present at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium for Sunday’s final, in which Chelsea beat Paris Saint-Germain 3-0. He said the Premier League club deserved to win the first edition of the expanded global tournament.

“Chelsea deserved it for the consistency they showed throughout the competition,” he said. “They showed that they have high-quality young players, like Cole Palmer and Joao Pedro,” he concluded.

MIL OSI China News –

July 15, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Ancelotti hails Brazil’s rise at Club World Cup

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

Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti has hailed the performances of the country’s clubs and individual players at the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States.

The Italian said he was impressed by Fluminense while also praising the feats of Palmeiras, Flamengo and Botafogo, saying they showed Brazilian teams could challenge Europe’s best.

Everaldo (R) of Fluminense vies with Tosin Adarabioyo of Chelsea during the semifinal match between Fluminense FC (Brazil) and Chelsea FC (England) at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 at the MetLife Stadium, New Jersey, the United States, July 8, 2025. (Xinhua/Li Ming)

“Fluminense had a great campaign, reaching the semifinals, and Botafogo beat PSG,” Ancelotti told the Brazilian Football Confederation’s official website.

“Palmeiras and Flamengo also proved they can compete with the best European teams,” he added.

Brazilian players also caught the attention of the 66-year-old, who was appointed Brazil manager in May after leaving Real Madrid.

Among those singled out were Chelsea’s Joao Pedro and Andrey Santos, Real Madrid’s Eder Militao and Palmeiras’ Chelsea-bound teenager Estevao.

“They played very well,” Ancelotti said. “Individually, Estevao put in a great showing. Joao Pedro was decisive in the semifinals and final. Andrey Santos played an important role for Chelsea and Militao came back strong [from injury]. He will be an important player for the national team in the next year.”

Ancelotti was present at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium for Sunday’s final, in which Chelsea beat Paris Saint-Germain 3-0. He said the Premier League club deserved to win the first edition of the expanded global tournament.

“Chelsea deserved it for the consistency they showed throughout the competition,” he said. “They showed that they have high-quality young players, like Cole Palmer and Joao Pedro,” he concluded.

MIL OSI China News –

July 15, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Mendes completes Vasco da Gama move

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

Vasco da Gama has completed the signing of former Lyon and Lille midfielder Thiago Mendes on a free transfer, the Brazilian Serie A club said on Monday.

The 33-year-old agreed to a contract that runs until December 2027 after parting ways with Qatar’s Al-Rayyan last month.

“I wanted to return to Brazil to feel the energy of the fans,” Mendes told Vasco TV, adding that manager Fernando Diniz had convinced him it was the right move.

“The coach spoke very positively about his plans and that was fundamental to my desire to wear this shirt.”

Mendes has already passed a medical and is expected to make his debut for Vasco in next Saturday’s home clash against Gremio.

Vasco is currently 14th in Brazil’s 20-team Serie A standings with 13 points from 13 games.

MIL OSI China News –

July 15, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Chinese archaeologists inspired by Xixia Imperial Tombs’ World Heritage inscription

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

Chinese archaeologists inspired by Xixia Imperial Tombs’ World Heritage inscription

Tourists visit the Xixia Imperial Tombs archaeological site park in Yinchuan, northwest China’s Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, July 13, 2025. China’s Xixia Imperial Tombs were officially added to the UNESCO World Heritage List on Friday during the 47th session of the World Heritage Committee held in Paris, France. (Photo by Yuan Hongyan/Xinhua)

Upon receiving the news that the Xixia Imperial Tombs have been inscribed on the World Heritage List, archaeological workers at the historical site of Yinxu in central China’s Henan Province were overjoyed.

“We’ve always had high hopes for the Xixia Imperial Tombs’ successful inscription on the list,” said Yang Liying, deputy head of the Anyang Yinxu world cultural heritage protection and management committee in the city of Anyang, where Yinxu, or the Yin Ruins, are located.

She added that the Xixia Imperial Tombs’ inscription on the list will help elevate China’s status and influence in the realm of world cultural heritage preservation, and hoped that the two sites can engage in broader cooperation and exchange.

The 3,300-year-old Yin Ruins, confirmed as the capital site of the late Shang (Yin) Dynasty (1600 B.C.-1046 B.C.), was added to the World Heritage List in 2006 by UNESCO.

Now, nearly two decades later, the Xixia Imperial Tombs were inscribed on the list during UNESCO’s 47th session of the World Heritage Committee held in Paris, France, on July 11. This has brought the total number of World Heritage sites in China to 60, nearly doubling the figure from 2006, when there were 33.

Located at the foot of Helan Mountain in Yinchuan, capital of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, the tombs were built by the Tangut, an ethnic group that thrived in northwest China between the 11th and 13th centuries. In 1038, the Tangut people founded the Xixia Dynasty, establishing its capital in what is now Yinchuan.

By analyzing the tombs’ location, layout, architecture and artifacts, historians were able to see how the Xixia Dynasty adapted Han models during the Tang (618-907) and Song (960-1279) dynasties while infusing distinct ethnic features.

This evidence of ethnic integration is not unique to the Xixia tombs. It can be found in many of China’s historical sites. According to Ji Tao, head of the Hailongtun cultural heritage management bureau in Zunyi, Guizhou Province, the tombs and the ancient ruins of Hailongtun Fortress share similarities in this regard.

“Both are important physical evidence of the development of a pluralistic yet integrated ethnic pattern in Chinese history, and both manifest the political wisdom of ‘harmony without uniformity,’” said Ji.

In 2015, Hailongtun Fortress was added to the World Heritage List, along with two other historical sites. The three were jointly referred to as “Tusi Sites”. They were deemed to “bear exceptional testimony” to the Tusi system, a chieftain system adopted by ancient Chinese central governments to unify national administration, while allowing ethnic minorities to retain their customs and way of life.

Apart from its historic and cultural value, the Xixia Imperial Tombs also illustrate China’s multifaceted preservation of cultural heritage sites, said Liu Xiangyu, head of the cultural relics protection and management institute of Ji’an, northeast China’s Jilin Province.

The protection work of the tombs is overseen by the cultural relics administration department of Yinchuan Municipal People’s Government. Meanwhile, departments of city planning, land and resources, as well as housing and urban-rural development all work in coordination within their respective duties, forming a joint force for protection.

According to Liu, this tiered and coordinated system of historical site preservation was also adopted in the protection of the Capital Cities and Tombs of the Ancient Koguryo Kingdom in Jilin, which was inscribed on the World Heritage List in 2004. “As heritages of the same type, the two sites share many similarities in terms of protection methods,” Liu said.

With its World Heritage inscription, the Xixia Imperial Tombs have now gained a new opportunity to inspire archaeological workers in China and the Chinese people as a whole. The head of the Xixia tomb area management office has vowed to take the inscription as an opportunity to comprehensively and continuously explore the cultural value of the site, and spare no effort in advancing its systematic protection, utilization and research.

MIL OSI China News –

July 15, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Chinese archaeologists inspired by Xixia Imperial Tombs’ World Heritage inscription

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

Chinese archaeologists inspired by Xixia Imperial Tombs’ World Heritage inscription

Tourists visit the Xixia Imperial Tombs archaeological site park in Yinchuan, northwest China’s Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, July 13, 2025. China’s Xixia Imperial Tombs were officially added to the UNESCO World Heritage List on Friday during the 47th session of the World Heritage Committee held in Paris, France. (Photo by Yuan Hongyan/Xinhua)

Upon receiving the news that the Xixia Imperial Tombs have been inscribed on the World Heritage List, archaeological workers at the historical site of Yinxu in central China’s Henan Province were overjoyed.

“We’ve always had high hopes for the Xixia Imperial Tombs’ successful inscription on the list,” said Yang Liying, deputy head of the Anyang Yinxu world cultural heritage protection and management committee in the city of Anyang, where Yinxu, or the Yin Ruins, are located.

She added that the Xixia Imperial Tombs’ inscription on the list will help elevate China’s status and influence in the realm of world cultural heritage preservation, and hoped that the two sites can engage in broader cooperation and exchange.

The 3,300-year-old Yin Ruins, confirmed as the capital site of the late Shang (Yin) Dynasty (1600 B.C.-1046 B.C.), was added to the World Heritage List in 2006 by UNESCO.

Now, nearly two decades later, the Xixia Imperial Tombs were inscribed on the list during UNESCO’s 47th session of the World Heritage Committee held in Paris, France, on July 11. This has brought the total number of World Heritage sites in China to 60, nearly doubling the figure from 2006, when there were 33.

Located at the foot of Helan Mountain in Yinchuan, capital of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, the tombs were built by the Tangut, an ethnic group that thrived in northwest China between the 11th and 13th centuries. In 1038, the Tangut people founded the Xixia Dynasty, establishing its capital in what is now Yinchuan.

By analyzing the tombs’ location, layout, architecture and artifacts, historians were able to see how the Xixia Dynasty adapted Han models during the Tang (618-907) and Song (960-1279) dynasties while infusing distinct ethnic features.

This evidence of ethnic integration is not unique to the Xixia tombs. It can be found in many of China’s historical sites. According to Ji Tao, head of the Hailongtun cultural heritage management bureau in Zunyi, Guizhou Province, the tombs and the ancient ruins of Hailongtun Fortress share similarities in this regard.

“Both are important physical evidence of the development of a pluralistic yet integrated ethnic pattern in Chinese history, and both manifest the political wisdom of ‘harmony without uniformity,’” said Ji.

In 2015, Hailongtun Fortress was added to the World Heritage List, along with two other historical sites. The three were jointly referred to as “Tusi Sites”. They were deemed to “bear exceptional testimony” to the Tusi system, a chieftain system adopted by ancient Chinese central governments to unify national administration, while allowing ethnic minorities to retain their customs and way of life.

Apart from its historic and cultural value, the Xixia Imperial Tombs also illustrate China’s multifaceted preservation of cultural heritage sites, said Liu Xiangyu, head of the cultural relics protection and management institute of Ji’an, northeast China’s Jilin Province.

The protection work of the tombs is overseen by the cultural relics administration department of Yinchuan Municipal People’s Government. Meanwhile, departments of city planning, land and resources, as well as housing and urban-rural development all work in coordination within their respective duties, forming a joint force for protection.

According to Liu, this tiered and coordinated system of historical site preservation was also adopted in the protection of the Capital Cities and Tombs of the Ancient Koguryo Kingdom in Jilin, which was inscribed on the World Heritage List in 2004. “As heritages of the same type, the two sites share many similarities in terms of protection methods,” Liu said.

With its World Heritage inscription, the Xixia Imperial Tombs have now gained a new opportunity to inspire archaeological workers in China and the Chinese people as a whole. The head of the Xixia tomb area management office has vowed to take the inscription as an opportunity to comprehensively and continuously explore the cultural value of the site, and spare no effort in advancing its systematic protection, utilization and research.

MIL OSI China News –

July 15, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Xi addresses Central Urban Work Conference, listing priorities for urban development

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

Xi addresses Central Urban Work Conference, listing priorities for urban development

BEIJING, July 15 — Chinese President Xi Jinping laid out the overall requirements, key principles and priority tasks for urban work at a key conference held in Beijing from Monday to Tuesday.

Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, delivered an important speech at the Central Urban Work Conference, which was also attended by members of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee Li Qiang, Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang and Li Xi.

MIL OSI China News –

July 15, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Xi addresses Central Urban Work Conference, listing priorities for urban development

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

Xi addresses Central Urban Work Conference, listing priorities for urban development

BEIJING, July 15 — Chinese President Xi Jinping laid out the overall requirements, key principles and priority tasks for urban work at a key conference held in Beijing from Monday to Tuesday.

Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, delivered an important speech at the Central Urban Work Conference, which was also attended by members of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee Li Qiang, Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang and Li Xi.

MIL OSI China News –

July 15, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Employment Relations Amendment Bill passes first reading
Source: New Zealand Government

Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Brooke van Velden welcomes the successful first reading of the Employment Relations Amendment Bill, calling it a major milestone in helping businesses employ and contract with confidence.

The Employment Relations Amendment Bill will now be considered by the Education and Workforce Select Committee where people can have their say on the proposed changes.

“This Bill reflects the Government’s commitment to supporting New Zealand businesses and creating more and better opportunities for workers.”

The legislation delivers on key commitments from the ACT–National Coalition Agreement, including:
- Clarifying the distinction between employment and contracting arrangements, giving greater certainty to both businesses and workers.
- Simplifying the personal grievance process, including the introduction of an income threshold of $180,000, above which unjustified dismissal claims cannot be pursued.
This Bill also proposes removing the 30-day rule, allowing employers and employees to negotiate mutually beneficial terms from the start of employment, reducing compliance burden and increasing flexibility.

“I encourage all interested New Zealanders to have their say on the Bill, and I see the Select Committee process as an important way of strengthening the final Bill and making sure it works for a wide variety of working relationships and situations.

“I am particularly interested in hearing feedback on whether the gateway test criteria are workable and whether the test covers a variety of genuine contracting relationships. I am also interested in hearing feedback on the high-income threshold for personal grievances, both from those who may use it as an employer and those who would be affected as a worker.

“I am looking forward to hearing what New Zealanders have to say about the Bill during the Select Committee process,” says Ms van Velden.

Editor notes:

MIL OSI New Zealand News –
July 15, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Employment Relations Amendment Bill passes first reading
Source: New Zealand Government

Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Brooke van Velden welcomes the successful first reading of the Employment Relations Amendment Bill, calling it a major milestone in helping businesses employ and contract with confidence.

The Employment Relations Amendment Bill will now be considered by the Education and Workforce Select Committee where people can have their say on the proposed changes.

“This Bill reflects the Government’s commitment to supporting New Zealand businesses and creating more and better opportunities for workers.”

The legislation delivers on key commitments from the ACT–National Coalition Agreement, including:
- Clarifying the distinction between employment and contracting arrangements, giving greater certainty to both businesses and workers.
- Simplifying the personal grievance process, including the introduction of an income threshold of $180,000, above which unjustified dismissal claims cannot be pursued.
This Bill also proposes removing the 30-day rule, allowing employers and employees to negotiate mutually beneficial terms from the start of employment, reducing compliance burden and increasing flexibility.

“I encourage all interested New Zealanders to have their say on the Bill, and I see the Select Committee process as an important way of strengthening the final Bill and making sure it works for a wide variety of working relationships and situations.

“I am particularly interested in hearing feedback on whether the gateway test criteria are workable and whether the test covers a variety of genuine contracting relationships. I am also interested in hearing feedback on the high-income threshold for personal grievances, both from those who may use it as an employer and those who would be affected as a worker.

“I am looking forward to hearing what New Zealanders have to say about the Bill during the Select Committee process,” says Ms van Velden.

Editor notes:

MIL OSI New Zealand News –
July 15, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Eighth Former Correctional Officer Sentenced on Federal Civil Rights Charges in Connection with Death of Inmate at West Virginia Jail

Source: United States Attorneys General

A former correctional officer from the Southern Regional Jail in Beaver, West Virginia, was sentenced today for his role in an assault that resulted in the death of an inmate, identified by the initials Q.B., on March 1, 2022. Andrew Fleshman, 22, was sentenced to eight years and four months in prison.

According to his plea agreement, Fleshman responded to a call for officer assistance after Q.B. tried to push past another correctional officer and leave his assigned pod. When Correctional Officer Fleshman arrived at the pod, Q.B. was on the floor as force was being used against him. The officers restrained and handcuffed Q.B. Officer Fleshman and other members of the conspiracy then escorted Q.B. to an interview room, where, aided and abetted by each other, they struck and injured Q.B. while he was restrained, handcuffed and posed no threat to anyone. Fleshman admitted that he and the members of the conspiracy struck and injured Q.B. to punish him for attempting to leave his assigned pod.

Fleshman pleaded guilty before Chief U.S. District Court Judge Frank W. Volk on Nov. 2, 2023. That same day, former correctional officer Steven Nicholas Wimmer also pleaded guilty to conspiring to use unreasonable force against Q.B. On May 8, Chief U.S. District Court Judge Frank W. Volk sentenced Wimmer to nine years in prison.

On Nov. 29, 2023, a federal grand jury indicted six other defendants in connection with the death of Q.B. In November 2024, Mark Holdren, Corey Snyder, and Johnathan Walters each pleaded guilty in connection with the use of unreasonable force against Q.B., resulting in his death. On July 9, U.S. District Court Judge Joseph R. Goodwin sentenced Holdren to 20 years in prison and Walters was sentenced to 21 years in prison. On July 10, Judge Goodwin sentenced Snyder to 19 years and seven months in prison.

In August 2024, Ashley Toney and Jacob Boothe each pleaded guilty to failing to intervene to protect Q.B. from the officers’ assault. On June 9, Judge Goodwin sentenced Toney to six and a half years in prison. On July 10, Judge Goodwin sentenced Boothe to three years in prison.

On Jan. 27, a federal jury returned a guilty verdict at trial for the sixth indicted defendant, Chad Lester, a former Lieutenant at the Southern Regional Jail, finding him guilty on three obstruction of justice charges for his role in conspiring to cover up the death of Q.B. On May 15, Judge Goodwin sentenced Lester to 17 and a half years in prison.

Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division and Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa G. Johnston for the Southern District of West Virginia made the announcement.

The FBI Pittsburgh Field Office, Charleston Resident Agency, investigated the case.

Deputy Chief Christine M. Siscaretti and Trial Attorney Tenette Smith of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division prosecuted the case in partnership with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia.

MIL Security OSI –

July 15, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Two Foreign Nationals Sentenced for Illegally Reentering the United States After Deportation

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that two men convicted of illegally reentering the United States after prior deportations have been sentenced.

Hugo Henry Hernandez-Bonilla, 49, a Salvadoran national, was sentenced today by United States District Judge Mia Roberts Perez to time served, approximately four months, for illegal reentry. Having completed his prison sentence, he again will be removed from the country.

Hernandez-Bonilla had been previously removed from the United States in September 2011.

Following his removal, the defendant illegally reentered the United States and was arrested in July 2024 by the Lancaster City (Pa.) Bureau of Police on a charge of driving under the influence.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) learned of Hernandez-Bonilla’s arrest and took him into custody in February of this year. In March, he was charged by federal indictment with illegal reentry, and he pleaded guilty in May.

Noel Velasquez-Basurto, 33, a Mexican national, was sentenced by United States District Judge Paul S. Diamond last week to time served, approximately four months, for illegal reentry. Having completed his prison sentence, he again will be removed from the country.

Velasquez-Basurto had previously been removed from the U.S. in October 2013, after being encountered by the U.S. Border Patrol near Nogales, Arizona. Later that month, after authorities again found him in Arizona, he was charged by criminal complaint with illegal entry, pleaded guilty, and was sentenced to 60 days’ imprisonment. Velasquez-Basurto was deported in January 2014, after completing his term.

In February of this year, ICE encountered the defendant in Conshohocken, Pennsylvania, determined that he was in the country illegally, and took him into custody.

In April, Velasquez-Basurto was charged by indictment with illegal reentry, and he pleaded guilty this month.

These cases are 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 Neighborhoods (PSN).

The cases were investigated by ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations and are being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Amanda McCool, Brittany Jones, and Lindsey Mills.

MIL Security OSI –

July 15, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Bakersfield Tax Return Preparer Pleads Guilty for His Role in $25 Million Fraud Scheme

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

Victor Cruz, 40, who was a tax return preparer in Bakersfield, pleaded guilty today to helping Miguel Martinez, a Mexican national who was in the United States illegally, submit fraudulent individual federal income tax returns that claimed $25 million in refunds, Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announced.

According to court records, from November 2019 through June 2023, Martinez led a scheme to file thousands of fraudulent tax returns that claimed millions of dollars in refunds and Cruz helped him carry out the scheme. Martinez used stolen identities to create fake businesses and report phony wage and withholding information for the businesses to the IRS. Martinez then submitted hundreds of individual income tax returns to the IRS in the names of individuals whose identities he had stolen, claiming that those individuals worked for the fake businesses and were owed tax refunds based on the phony wage and withholding information that had been reported. Cruz prepared and filed more than 500 of the fraudulent tax returns, which claimed more than $3 million in refunds. Cruz received thousands of dollars in fees from Martinez in exchange for his services.

The IRS actually paid out $2.3 million of the $25 million in refunds that was claimed by the fraudulent tax returns.

This case is the product of an investigation by the IRS Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Barton is prosecuting the case.

Cruz is scheduled to be sentenced on Nov. 17, 2025. He faces a statutory maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and $250,000 fine. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.

Martinez pleaded guilty and was sentenced to six years in federal prison.

MIL Security OSI –

July 15, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: West Linn Man Faces Federal Charges for Unlawfully Possessing Machine Guns, Unregistered Firearms, and Silencers

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

PORTLAND, Ore.—A West Linn, Oregon man has been charged with illegally possessing machine guns, unregistered short-barreled rifles, and firearm silencers.

Lucas Christopher Perillo, 41, has been charged by criminal complaint with unlawful possession of a machinegun and unlawful possession of an unregistered short-barreled rifle or silencer.

According to court documents, on June 17, 2025, FBI agents executed federal search warrants on Perillo, his residence, and his vehicle. Agents located and seized 36 firearms, including three firearms converted with machine gun switches and 13 unregistered short-barreled rifles, firearm silencers, and other firearm parts.

Machine gun conversion devices, sometimes referred to as switches, are small attachments used to convert firearms from semi-automatic to fully-automatic.

On July 11, 2025, Perillo was arrested in West Linn. He made his first appearance in federal court today before a U.S. Magistrate Judge and was ordered detained pending further court proceedings.

This case was investigated by the FBI with assistance from the Oregon State Police. It is being prosecuted by Parakram Singh, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

A criminal complaint is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

MIL Security OSI –

July 15, 2025