Source: Reserve Bank of India
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Category: AM-NC
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MIL-OSI Economics: Money Market Operations as on July 08, 2025
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MIL-OSI Submissions: If you have a pet as a kid, does this lower your risk of asthma and eczema?
Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Samantha Chan, Immunology and Allergy Lead, Snow Centre for Immune Health, WEHI (Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research)
Catherine Delahaye/Getty Images As the number of people with allergies grows worldwide, scientists are trying to work out precisely how and why these conditions – such as asthma and eczema – develop.
One long-standing idea is the “hygiene hypothesis”. This suggests our modern indoor lifestyles are to blame, as they limit our early exposure to germs and allergens which help train the immune system.
But growing evidence suggests having a pet may counter this effect. As any pet owner knows, our furry friends bring a lot of mess, germs and fur into our homes – along with the cuddles.
So, does spending time with animals lower children’s risk of allergies? Here’s what we know.
How allergies develop
During early childhood, our immune systems learn what to attack and what to ignore to stop us getting sick.
Evidence suggests early exposure – to family members, food, germs, dust, dirt, pollen and pet dander (skin flakes) – shapes this immune response.
Allergic conditions develop when the immune system overreacts to harmless substances, such as dust, pollen or certain foods. These reactions can affect the skin, airways and gut.
Dogs bring both love and mess – which might be just what a developing immune system needs.
Samantha Chan/Author provided, CC BY-NC-NDHowever, we still don’t fully understand why some people develop allergies while others don’t.
Scientists have identified genes linked to allergic conditions. But most have subtle effects on the immune system and act as “risk factors” – they increase the chance of disease but don’t cause it outright.
Recent research suggests exposure to bacteria in our environment could be another major factor.
From birth, our bodies are colonised by bacteria, especially in the gut. This community of microorganisms is known as the microbiome.
Ongoing “crosstalk” between the microbiome and immune system is crucial for healthy immune function. When this balance is disturbed, it can contribute to inflammation and disease.
The effect of our early environment
In the last few decades, studies of children raised on farms gave us some of the first clues that early environments can affect allergy risk.
Compared to children raised in cities, children on farms are less likely to have allergic conditions such as eczema and asthma. This is especially true of those in close contact with animals.
Notably, farm-raised children tend to develop a more diverse microbiome than children raised in urban environments. This may help make their immune system more tolerant to foreign substances (such as bacteria and dirt) and less likely to develop allergies.
However, across the world children are increasingly living in urban areas.
This means a pet may be the closest contact they have with animals. So, does this still lower their risk of developing allergies?
Children raised on farms, especially those in close contact with animals, seem to have a lower risk of allergic diseases.
Peter van Haastrecht / 500px/Getty ImagesWhat the studies show in eczema
Some studies indicate children with pets may be less likely to have allergies.
However this evidence hasn’t always been easy to interpret.
It can be difficult to tell whether lower allergy rates are due to the pets themselves or other factors, such as location, lifestyle or a family history of allergies.
A review of results from 23 studies found children exposed to dogs early in life were significantly less likely to develop eczema.
Another 2025 study analysed genetic data from more than 270,000 people. It found a gene linked to eczema only increased risk of eczema in children who hadn’t been exposed to dogs.
This suggests early dog exposure may help protect children who are genetically more likely to develop eczema.
What about asthma?
When it comes to asthma, the story gets trickier.
One 2001 study followed more than 1,000 children in the United States from birth to age 13. It found those living with dogs indoors were less likely to develop frequent wheezing – a common asthma symptom – but only if they didn’t have a family history of asthma.
A Korean study from 2021 found those who had dogs during childhood were less likely to develop allergies. But they had a slightly higher risk of non-allergic wheeze — a type of breathing difficulty usually caused by airway irritation or infections (not allergens).
This suggests while growing up with a dog may protect against allergic conditions, such as asthma, it may increase the chance of certain non-allergic respiratory symptoms.
What about cats?
It’s challenging to tease apart the specific effects of cats versus dogs, since many early studies grouped all furry pets together.
But in studies that have looked at them separately, living with cats didn’t seem to reduce allergy risk.
One potential reason is cats and dogs carry very different microbes, which may influence how they shape the household environment.
Cats and dogs carry very different microbes, which may influence how they shape the household environment.
Photo by Mochamad Reza Aditya on UnsplashSo, should you get a pet?
If you’re already thinking about getting a dog, there’s decent evidence early exposure could reduce your child’s risk of eczema, and possibly other allergic conditions too.
It’s not a guarantee, but a potential bonus – alongside companionship, joy and never having to worry about what to do with leftovers.
And if a dog’s not on the cards, don’t worry. Spending time outdoors, encouraging messy play, and avoiding overuse of disinfectants can all help build a more resilient immune response.
Samantha Chan has served on advisory boards for CSL Behring. She is in receipt of funding from the Allergy and Immunology Foundation Australia and Walter & Eliza Hall Institute. She is affiliated with the Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology and European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. She is a physician for the Snow Centre for Immune Health, funded by the Snow Medical Research Foundation.
In the past five years, Jo Douglass has served on advisory boards, provided advice or undertaken presentations on behalf of Astra-Zeneca P/L, GSK, CSL, Stallergenes, Immunosis P/L , Novartis and Sanofi. She is in receipt of funding from the Medical Research Future Fund for studies in allergic asthma. She is a clinical co-director of the Snow Centre for Immune Health, funded by the Snow Medical Research Foundation.
– ref. If you have a pet as a kid, does this lower your risk of asthma and eczema? – https://theconversation.com/if-you-have-a-pet-as-a-kid-does-this-lower-your-risk-of-asthma-and-eczema-258581
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MIL-OSI Submissions: Sleep divorce: could sleeping separately from your partner lead to a better night’s rest?
Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Alix Mellor, Research Fellow, Psychology, Monash University
Hundreds of years ago, it was common for married couples among the European upper classes to have separate bedrooms. Sleeping separately was a symbol of luxury and status historically reserved for royalty and the very wealthy.
Nowadays, it’s common for married couples and other couples in relationships to sleep in the same bed. But sometimes – for reasons from conflicting schedules to snoring to sleep talking – couples might choose to sleep separately in pursuit of a better night’s sleep.
This is known as “sleep divorce”. Though I prefer the term “sleep separation”, as this doesn’t have to be a permanent arrangement – but more on that later.
So why might couples choose to sleep separately? And what does the evidence say about the effects on sleep quality if you sleep alone versus with a partner?
Why do couples opt for a sleep separation?
Couples may choose to sleep apart if one partner’s sleep is disturbing the other’s, or both are disrupting one another. This can happen for a variety of reasons.
These include waking up frequently in the night, mismatched body clocks (for example, one person coming to bed later than the other), conflicting schedules (for example, shift workers), snoring, twitching legs or sleep talking.
Parents with babies and young children may choose to sleep separately to avoid both partners’ sleep being disturbed.
Those with conflicting preferences for sleeping environments, such as one partner liking a cool room with a fan and the other preferring warmth, may also decide to sleep apart.
What are the benefits of sleeping alone?
Many couples say they prefer to sleep – and sleep better – next to their partner.
But when scientists measure sleep objectively, such as via an electroencephalogram (EEG) to assess brain waves, the data actually shows poorer sleep quality when co-sleeping. So sleeping alone may, in fact, mean better quality and longer sleep.
Research also shows when one member of the couple has a sleep disorder, such as insomnia or sleep apnoea (where breathing is frequently interrupted during sleep), these people often inadvertently wake up their partner when they wake in the night. So sleeping alone could be a good idea if your bed partner has a sleep disorder.
What’s more, studies have found sleep disturbances are linked to reduced relationship satisfaction. So sleeping apart could actually mean happier couples.
Finally, anyone who has struggled with their sleep will know anxiety around sleep is common. Many clients I have seen who experience insomnia report sleeping alone can alleviate some of their anxiety because at least they know they won’t disturb, or be disturbed by, their partner.
Disturbed sleep has been linked to lower relationship satisfaction.
Gorodenkoff/ShutterstockAre there any downsides to separate sleeping arrangements?
Some people dislike sleeping alone, reporting comfort, and feelings of safety and protection when sleeping alongside their partner – and loneliness when they don’t.
Sleeping separately also requires two rooms, or at least two beds. Many couples may not have these options available to them in their home.
Sleeping separately is often stigmatised, with some people seeing it as the death of a couple’s sex life. But while sleeping in separate beds may provide fewer opportunities for sex, this doesn’t necessarily mean the end of intimacy.
Sleeping apart could mean some couples actually have more sex. We know better sleep is linked to more positive feelings about relationships, so it’s possible the desire to be intimate could increase after a good night’s sleep in separate beds. Sleeping apart may even mean some couples have more energy to be intimate.
Nonetheless, if you choose to sleep separately from your partner, it’s important to have an open discussion and prioritise opportunities for connection and intimacy. One client I worked with referred to “visiting rights” where her partner came into her bed for a short period before sleep or in the morning.
Who should potentially consider a sleep separation?
You may wish to think about a “sleep separation” if you are disturbing each other’s sleep, have young children, or have different preferences in terms of temperature, light and noise, which are causing issues.
Ultimately, if sleeping in the same bed is leading to poor sleep then sleeping apart, if it’s possible, could help.
If you can’t sleep separately there may be other ways to reduce disturbance from a partner such as using an eye mask, white noise or earplugs.
If you decide to try a sleep separation, remember this can be a flexible arrangement or “re-set” and doesn’t have to be permanent, or every night. Some couples find sleeping separately during the working week but sharing a bed on the weekend works well for them.
Lastly, it’s important to talk to your GP about any persistent sleep problems, such as snoring, insomnia, or unusual behaviour during sleep (for example, shouting or walking around), as there may be an underlying sleep disorder which needs treating.
Alix Mellor works for the Monash University Healthy Sleep Clinic at the Turner Clinics as a provisional psychologist.
– ref. Sleep divorce: could sleeping separately from your partner lead to a better night’s rest? – https://theconversation.com/sleep-divorce-could-sleeping-separately-from-your-partner-lead-to-a-better-nights-rest-258085
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MIL-OSI Submissions: What is rejection sensitive dysphoria in ADHD? And how can you manage it?
Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Victoria Barclay-Timmis, Adjunct Lecturer in Psychology, University of Southern Queensland
Imagine your friend hasn’t replied to a message in a few hours. Most people might think, “they are probably just busy”.
But someone with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) might spiral into a flood of thoughts like, “they must hate me!” or “I’ve ruined the friendship!”
These intense emotional reactions to real or imagined rejection are part of what’s called rejection sensitive dysphoria.
The term isn’t a formal diagnosis, but it’s gaining traction in both research and clinical work, especially among adults seeking to understand themselves better.
So, what is rejection sensitive dysphoria, how does it relate to ADHD, and how can we handle it with more compassion?
It’s more than just disliking criticism
Everyone feels hurt when they’re criticised or left out. But rejection sensitivity dysphoria isn’t just about “not liking” feedback. The word dysphoria refers to intense emotional distress.
People with rejection sensitivity dysphoria describe overwhelming reactions to perceived rejection, even if no one actually said or did anything cruel.
A passing comment such as “I thought you were going to do it this way” can trigger feelings of shame, embarrassment or self-doubt.
The emotional pain often feels immediate and consuming, leading some people to withdraw, over-apologise or lash out to protect themselves.
The ADHD brain and emotional hypersensitivity
ADHD is often associated with attention or impulsivity, but one major (and often overlooked) component is emotional dysregulation: difficulty managing and recovering from strong emotional responses.
This isn’t a character flaw; it’s a neurological difference. Brain imaging studies show people with ADHD tend to have differences in how their amygdala (the brain’s emotional alarm system) and prefrontal cortex (which regulates impulses and emotions) work together.
The amygdala is the brain’s emotional alarm system. The prefrontal cortex regulates emotions.
chaiyo12/ShutterstockThe result? Emotional experiences hit harder and take longer to settle.
A 2018 study highlights this imbalance in emotional control circuits in people with ADHD, explaining why intense feelings can seem to “take over” before logical thinking kicks in.
What does the research say?
Recent research from 2024 reports a strong link between ADHD symptoms and rejection sensitivity. It found students with higher ADHD symptom levels also reported significantly more rejection sensitivity, including a heightened fear of being negatively evaluated or criticised.
Further evidence comes from a 2018 study which showed adolescents with ADHD symptoms were far more sensitive to peer feedback than their peers. Their brain activity revealed they were more emotionally reactive to both praise and criticism, suggesting they may perceive neutral social cues as emotionally charged.
This reflects what I see daily in my clinic. One 13-year-old boy I work with is creative, empathetic and full of potential, yet social anxiety tied to a deep fear of rejection often holds him back. He once told me, “if I say no, they won’t like me anymore”. That fear drives him to go along with things he later regrets, simply to keep the peace and avoid losing connection.
This constant social hypervigilance is mentally draining. Without support, it can spiral into shame, low confidence and ongoing mental health struggles.
Read more:
Parents are increasingly saying their child is ‘dysregulated’. What does that actually mean?
Adults with ADHD aren’t immune either. A 2022 study explored how adults with ADHD experience criticism and found many linked it to persistent feelings of failure, low self-worth and emotional reactivity – even when the criticism was constructive or mild.
One client I support – a high-achieving professional diagnosed in her 50s – described learning about rejection sensitive dysphoria as “finding the missing piece of the puzzle”.
Despite consistently excelling in every role, she had long felt anxious about how she was perceived by colleagues. When she received a minor, formal complaint at work, she spiralled into intense self-doubt and shame.
Instead of brushing it off, she thought: “I’m too much”. This belief
had been silently reinforced for years by her emotional sensitivity to feedback.What helps?
If you experience rejection sensitivity dysphoria, you’re not alone, and you’re not broken.
Here are some tools that may help:
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name it. Saying to yourself, “This feels like rejection sensitivity,” can give you distance from the emotional flood
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pause before reacting. Taking slow breaths, counting backwards, or stepping outside are simple grounding strategies that help calm the body’s stress response and restore balance to your nervous system. Research shows slowing your breath and grounding your senses can help shift your body out of fight-or-flight mode, supporting clearer thinking and emotional regulation
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challenge the story. Ask yourself, “What else could be true?” or “How would I speak to a friend feeling this way?”
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consider therapy. Working with a psychologist who understands ADHD and rejection sensitivity dysphoria can help untangle these reactions and develop healthy, self-compassionate responses. The Australian Psychological Society has a Find a Psychologist service: you can search by location, areas of expertise (such as anxiety, ADHD, trauma) and the type of therapy you’re interested in
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start early with kids. Helping children with ADHD learn emotional language, boundary-setting and resilience can prevent rejection sensitivity from becoming overwhelming. For parents, resources such as Raising Children Network and books like The Whole-Brain Child by Daniel Siegel and Tina Payne Bryson offer practical ways to teach these skills at home
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communicate gently. If you work or live with someone who has ADHD, try to give feedback clearly and kindly. Avoid sarcasm or vague phrasing. A little extra clarity can go a long way.
Rejection sensitivity dysphoria isn’t about being fragile or “weak”. It’s about how the ADHD brain processes emotional and social cues. With insight, tools and support, these experiences can become manageable.
Victoria Barclay-Timmis is a clinical psychologist and works in private practice.
– ref. What is rejection sensitive dysphoria in ADHD? And how can you manage it? – https://theconversation.com/what-is-rejection-sensitive-dysphoria-in-adhd-and-how-can-you-manage-it-259995
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MIL-OSI Submissions: Avoid bad breath, don’t pick partners when drunk: ancient dating tips to find modern love
Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Konstantine Panegyres, Lecturer in Classics and Ancient History, The University of Western Australia
Henryk Siemiradzki via Wikimedia Commons To love and be loved is something most people want in their lives.
In the modern world, we often see stories about the difficulties of finding love and the trials of dating and marriage. Sometimes, the person we love doesn’t love us. Sometimes, we don’t love the person who loves us.
Ancient Greeks and Romans also had a lot to say about this subject. In fact, most of the issues people face today in their search for love are already mentioned in ancient Greek and Roman literature.
So, what did they say? And is the advice they put forward still relevant for modern people?
Advice for finding a lover
The Roman poet Ovid (43BCE–17CE) wrote a poem called The Art of Love (Ars Amatoria). In it, he offered advice for those who are still single.
First, Ovid says, you should make an effort to find someone you’re interested in. Your lover “will not come floating down to you through the tenuous air, she must be sought”.
As suitable places to find a lover, Ovid recommends walking in porticos and gardens, attending the theatre, or (surprisingly enough) lingering near law courts.
You need to catch someone’s eye and then invent an excuse to talk with them, he says.
Seek your lover in the daytime, says Ovid. Be careful of the night. You won’t choose the right person if you’re drunk. And you can’t see their face properly if it’s too dark – they might be uglier than you think.
Second, Ovid says you need to look presentable. Make sure your clothes are clean and you have a good haircut. Moreover, keep yourself groomed properly at all times:
Do not let your nails project, and let them be free of dirt; nor let any hair be in the hollow of your nostrils. Let not the breath of your mouth be sour and unpleasing.
Ovid’s The Art of Love may be regarded as a kind of love manual. But aside from making personal efforts to find a lover, people could also use matchmakers.
However, matchmaking was a difficult process. Sometimes matchmakers didn’t tell the truth about the situations of the parties involved. So the Athenian writer Xenophon (430–353 BCE) says people were sometimes “victims of deception” in the matchmaking process.
What if you’re not in love?
The ancients recognised that not being in love can be a problem. They thought it bad for your mental and physical health, but also for society more broadly.
For example, the Roman writer Claudius Aelian (2nd–3rd century CE) in his Historical Miscellany says soldiers who are in love will fight better than soldiers who are not in love:
In the heat of battle when war brings men into combat, a man who is not in love could not match one who is. The man untouched by love avoids and runs away from the man who loves, as if he were an outsider uninitiated into the god’s rites, and his bravery depends on his character and physical strength.
According to Aelian, the Spartans had a punishment for men who did not fall in love:
Any man of good appearance and character who did not fall in love with someone well-bred was also fined, because despite his excellence he did not love anyone […] lovers’ affection for their beloved has a remarkable power of stimulating the virtues.
So, when two people are in love, they can inspire each other and bring out the best in one another. Being in love can help a person become better and achieve more.
Fighting for and keeping a lover
If we are lucky, the person we love will also love us back, and we won’t have any love rivals.
But what happens when the person we love is also loved by someone else? We may need to put in more effort to win the affection of that person, but sometimes this brings us into conflicts.
For example, the Roman orator and politician Marcus Tullius Cicero (106–43 BCE), in his On the Orator, tells how Gaius Memmius, Roman tribune of the year 111 BCE, apparently took a bite out of his love rival’s arm, “when he had a quarrel with him at Tarracina over a girlfriend”.
Some ways to keep one’s lover interested that are mentioned in ancient sources include showing off one’s wealth.
For example, in one of the plays of the poet Alexis (375–275 BCE) a young man who is in love puts on a large banquet to impress his girlfriend with a display of wealth. Engagements were at that time sometimes cancelled if it turned out the husband was too poor.
Of course, things did not always work out, and people had grievances against former lovers. One particularly famous invective was from the poet Martial (38–104 CE) to a woman called Manneia:
Manneia, your little dog licks your face and lips. Small wonder that a dog likes eating dung!
Timeless concerns
Today, we often see debates about whether it’s better to stay single or get into a relationship.
The same goes for antiquity. In the 4th-century BCE play Arrephoros or The Pipe Girl by poet Menander, one character says:
If you’ve got any sense, you won’t get married […] I’m married myself – which is why I’m advising you not to do it.
Others lamented that they missed their opportunity for love. So the poet Pindar (6th–5th century BCE) wrote a poem regretting that he could not make the much younger Theoxenus his boyfriend:
You should have picked love’s flowers at the right time, my heart, when you were young. But as for the sparkling rays from Theoxenus’ eyes, whoever looks on them and is not roiled with longing has a black heart forged with cold fire out of steel or iron.
Clearly, finding a lover was as difficult then as it is now.
Konstantine Panegyres does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
– ref. Avoid bad breath, don’t pick partners when drunk: ancient dating tips to find modern love – https://theconversation.com/avoid-bad-breath-dont-pick-partners-when-drunk-ancient-dating-tips-to-find-modern-love-250792
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MIL-OSI Submissions: ‘Next time bring my daughter’: Barbara Demick reunited a Chinese family with the stolen ‘missing twin’ adopted in the US
Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Kathryn Shine, Associate Professor, Journalism, Curtin University
Reunited twins Esther (left) and Shuangjie Barbara Demick At the end of a long road trip through rural China in 2009, American journalist Barbara Demick had an encounter that would change the course of her life. In the previous days, she had interviewed several parents whose children had been forcibly removed from them by government officials. Demick suspected there may be a link between the missing children and China’s booming international adoption industry.
She had enough for her story, but some instinct compelled her to follow the next lead to remote Gaofeng Village, high in the mountains of Hunan Province.
Her driver could only take her so far. The dirt road ended at a stream, where she was met by local woman Zanhua Zeng and her daughter Shuangjie. They guided her across a makeshift bridge and into the village where “everything was in the process of falling down or going up”.
Zanhua Zeng and daughter Shuangjie, meeting Barbara Demick in a moment that would change all their lives.
Barbara DemickThere, she learnt about two-year-old Fangfang, daughter of Zanhua and twin sister of Shuangjie, violently taken from her aunt’s care in 2002. Government officials had told the family they were in breach of China’s One Child Policy and were not allowed to keep the baby. They had no idea what had happened to their daughter and sister.
Zanhua’s parting words were: “Come back again and next time bring my daughter.”
Review: Daughters of the Bamboo Grove: From China to America, A True Story of Abduction, Adoption, and Separated Twins – Barbara Demick (Text)
Extraordinary consequences
At the time, Demick had no premonition of the significance the Zeng family and their story would play in her life – and those of many others. But in writing a front-page report for the Los Angeles Times about the links between China’s stolen children and international adoptions, including a small piece about the missing twin Fangfang, she started a chain of events with extraordinary consequences.
Fangfang (renamed Esther), in the referral photo supplied by the orphanage.
For Zanhua and Shuangjie, it would eventually lead to a reunion with Fangfang, accompanied by Demick, who helped organise it. She was to develop an enduring connection with the family – and with Fangfang’s adoptive American family, too.
Daughters of the Bamboo Grove does what the best stories do: humanises a big issue. In this case, China’s one child policy and the international adoption industry it created.
Demick’s book is a story of China, and of incomprehensible government control. But as told through this case of the separated twins, it’s also a story of family, identity, loss and resilience.
It’s personal and moving, but also thoroughly researched, strengthened with compelling and confronting statistics and anecdotes.
The twins’ meeting as young women was documented by Barbara Demick for the Los Angeles Times. Demick outlines the population growth that led to the introduction of the One Child Policy in 1979 and the rise of the State Family Planning Commission, set up to enforce the law limiting most Chinese families to one child.
“Family Planning morphed into a monstrous organization that dwarfed the police and military in manpower,” she writes. “By the 1990s, it was estimated that eighty-three million Chinese worked at least part-time for Family Planning.” (By comparison, China’s combined armed forces were estimated to number roughly three million at the time.)
The organisation was “intrusive in the extreme”, with female workers having to report when they had their periods and, in some cases, show their blood-stained sanitary pads. After giving birth to their first child, women were forced to have an IUD or were sterilised.
People who violated the law received fines of two to six times their annual income. If violators were civil servants, they could lose their jobs. In rural areas, where people were less reliant on government jobs, the policy was implemented with “brute force”.
People were beaten. Sometimes their homes were demolished or set on fire. “If you violate the policy, your family will be destroyed,” read a sign on a wall not far from the Zeng’s home. Family Planning officials regularly checked even the most remote villages, sometimes tipped off by neighbours.
If a woman was discovered to be pregnant after having a child, she would be forced to undergo an abortion. The methods were “crude, often barbaric,” Demick writes. “Doctors would sometimes induce labor and then kill the baby with an injection of formaldehyde into the cranium before the feet emerged.”
Although Chinese people, particularly those from rural communities, often wanted to have bigger families, they had no power to fight the authorities. Those who tried to quietly subvert the system were ruthlessly punished.
These practices were so common, they were generally accepted. But when government officials started to take babies from families who had defied the policy, resistance grew. Other families started reporting cases like what had happened to Fangfang. Family Planning had forcibly removed children, refusing to provide any details about their whereabouts.
Officials miscalculated in 2005 when they dared to take a boy, Demick writes. He lived in a town, attended school and was not as poor as some of the other affected families. The school made a complaint, which was supported by a local politician. The boy was returned to his family after 29 days.
Hearing about this case emboldened other families to mobilise and fight back. These were among the first families Demick met when she travelled to cover the story of the missing children in 2009.
Child trafficking by ‘good Samaritans’
In the meantime, news was starting to emerge about the child trafficking of children through Chinese orphanages, with “good Samaritans” who “rescued” babies being paid increasingly large amounts of money. “The orphanages were competing with one another to procure babies,” Demick writes.
Chinese babies were in high demand for international adoption, and it had become a lucrative business. One Hunan orphanage director later told police they started a service to allow foreigners to adopt babies in 2001; they were charged a US$3,000 cash donation per baby. In some cases, the babies genuinely needed homes and families, Demick writes, but the payment was “in effect a bounty that incentivised a wave of kidnapping of female babies and toddlers”.
Shaoyang Social Welfare Institute, where Esther spent the last six months of her life in China.
Barbara DemickIt gradually became clear that many of the children removed by Family Planning officials were among the wave of Chinese babies and toddlers adopted by families from other countries, all of whom paid significant fees to do so, as well as donating to the orphanages. It was later revealed that orphanages routinely fabricated information about how and where the babies had been reportedly left.
By the time Demick’s reports were published in 2009, nearly 100,000 babies had been sent out of China, more than half to the US. The worldwide number would reach 160,000 by 2024, when China ended its international adoption program.
Demick’s story about stolen babies, plus other reports from within China and elsewhere, stunned the international adoption community and parents of Chinese adoptees around the world. Until then, China was perceived to be the most ethical choice for international adoption. For adoptive parents who now feared their adopted children could be taken from them, the revelations were terrifying, Demick says.
Marsha and Esther (background) in their Texas kitchen.
Barbara DemickOne of these parents was a Texan women named Marsha. She and her husband Al had adopted two Chinese girls: Victoria in 1999 and Esther in 2002. Through developing connections among families who had adopted from China, Demick came across Marsha – and realised Esther may be Fangfang: the missing twin.
She was correct. However, the story was far from resolved, which explains, in part, why Demick had plenty of material for her book.
Reporter as dogged detective
Daughters of the Bamboo Grove is a testament to dogged reporting. Demick’s skills as a researcher, interviewer – and effectively, a detective – imbue the book with substance and credibility.
She handles difficult subject matter sensitively, portraying the Zeng family in China and adoptive mother Marsha in the US with empathy. She acknowledges the challenges they faced and recognises their devotion to their children.
Her descriptions of the twin sisters, Shuangjie and Esther, are perceptive and gentle. Restraint is a powerful writing tool and Demick uses it here to great effect.
This is the moment where the twins first meet, outside the Zeng family home in China:
When everybody was out of the van, the two of them stood next to each other, side by side, facing the photographer. Nobody embraced. Nobody spoke. I imagined the twins as bride and groom in an arranged marriage, meeting for the first time, willing to pose for the photographer but not yet able to engage in conversation.
Twins Esther (left) and Shaungjie, separated most of their lives, meet for the first time since babyhood.
Barbara DemickDemick came to this story with the perspectives and limitations of an American journalist, but has gone to remarkable lengths to hear and convey the voices of Chinese people impacted by the One Child Policy.
At the same time, she challenges Western paternalistic ideas around adoption, questioning the view expressed by many she encounters that the Chinese children adopted by Westerners were lucky, guaranteed to have better lives elsewhere.
China’s One Child Policy was not formally abolished until 2015. In its 35 years, it did almost unimaginable damage, concludes Demick:
the policy shattered marriages, led to the deaths of countless children and suicides of parents, and left China with a population expected to continue declining into the next century. It was all encompassing, leaving almost everyone a victim or perpetrator or both.
For the hundreds of thousands of children sent out of China during this period, the legacy of One Child endures. As Demick writes, they are
citizens of their adopted countries but tethered by blood to another family and country they struggle to comprehend. Living in this in-between space between worlds.
In dedicating Daughters of the Bamboo Grove to Chinese adoptees around the world, Demick says she hopes in some small way it helps them to understand where they came from, and how they got to where they are today.
Kathryn Shine does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
– ref. ‘Next time bring my daughter’: Barbara Demick reunited a Chinese family with the stolen ‘missing twin’ adopted in the US – https://theconversation.com/next-time-bring-my-daughter-barbara-demick-reunited-a-chinese-family-with-the-stolen-missing-twin-adopted-in-the-us-259993
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MIL-OSI Submissions: What makes a good AI prompt? Here are 4 expert tips
Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Sandra Peter, Director of Sydney Executive Plus, Business School, University of Sydney
“And do you work well with AI?”
As tools such as ChatGPT, Copilot and other generative artificial intelligence (AI) systems become part of everyday workflows, more companies are looking for employees who can answer “yes” to this question. In other words, people who can prompt effectively, think with AI, and use it to boost productivity.
In fact, in a growing number of roles, being “AI fluent” is quickly becoming as important as being proficient in office software once was.
But we’ve all had that moment when we’ve asked an AI chatbot a question and received what feels like the most generic, surface level answer. The problem isn’t the AI – you just haven’t given it enough to work with.
Think of it this way. During training, the AI will have “read” virtually everything on the internet. But because it makes predictions, it will give you the most probable, most common response. Without specific guidance, it’s like walking into a restaurant and asking for something good. You’ll likely get the chicken.
Your solution lies in understanding that AI systems excel at adapting to context, but you have to provide it. So how exactly do you do that?
Crafting better prompts
You may have heard the term “prompt engineering”. It might sound like you need to design some kind of technical script to get results.
But today’s chatbots are great at human conversation. The format of your prompt is not that important. The content is.
To get the most out of your AI conversations, it’s important that you convey a few basics about what you want, and how you want it. Our approach follows the acronym CATS – context, angle, task and style.
Context means providing the setting and background information the AI needs. Instead of asking “How do I write a proposal?” try “I’m a nonprofit director writing a grant proposal to a foundation that funds environmental education programs for urban schools”. Upload relevant documents, explain your constraints, and describe your specific situation.
Angle (or attitude) leverages AI’s strength in role-playing and perspective-taking. Rather than getting a neutral response, specify the attitude you want. For example, “Act as a critical peer reviewer and identify weaknesses in my argument” or “Take the perspective of a supportive mentor helping me improve this draft”.
Task is specifically about what you actually want the AI to do. “Help me with my presentation” is vague. But “Give me three ways to make my opening slide more engaging for an audience of small business owners” is actionable.
Style harnesses AI’s ability to adapt to different formats and audiences. Specify whether you want a formal report, a casual email, bullet points for executives, or an explanation suitable for teenagers. Tell the AI what voice you want to use – for example, a formal academic style, technical, engaging or conversational.
In a growing number of roles, being able to use AI is quickly becoming as important as being proficient in office software once was.
ShutterstockContext is everything
Besides crafting a clear, effective prompt, you can also focus on managing the surrounding information – that is to say on “context engineering”. Context engineering refers to everything that surrounds the prompt.
That means thinking about the environment and information the AI has access to: its memory function, instructions leading up to the task, prior conversation history, documents you upload, or examples of what good output looks like.
You should think about prompting as a conversation. If you’re not happy with the first response, push for more, ask for changes, or provide more clarifying information.
Don’t expect the AI to give a ready-made response. Instead, use it to trigger your own thinking. If you feel the AI has produced a lot of good material but you get stuck, copy the best parts into a fresh session and ask it to summarise and continue from there.
Keeping your wits
A word of caution though. Don’t get seduced by the human-like conversation abilities of these chatbots.
Always retain your professional distance and remind yourself that you are the only thinking part in this relationship. And always make sure to check the accuracy of anything an AI produces – errors are increasingly common.
AI systems are remarkably capable, but they need you – and human intelligence – to bridge the gap between their vast generic knowledge and your particular situation. Give them enough context to work with, and they might surprise you with how helpful they can be.
The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
– ref. What makes a good AI prompt? Here are 4 expert tips – https://theconversation.com/what-makes-a-good-ai-prompt-here-are-4-expert-tips-260502
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MIL-OSI Australia: Traditional Owner led burn at Ryans Lagoon
Source:
In June, a Traditional Owner cultural burn took place at Ryans Lagoon, 20 minutes outside of Wodonga on Duduroa Country.
The burn, undertaken by Duduroa Dhargal Aboriginal Corporation (DDAC) and supported by both CFA and Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMVic), was part of an ongoing project to restore Country at the wetland site.
CFA Cultural Heritage Advisor, Michael Sherwen, oversaw the burn for CFA alongside his Vegetation Management team members.
“The wetland has been quite degraded with weeds and biomass accumulation over time. So, the objective of the burn was to reduce that mass and give opportunities for native species to come through.” Michael said.
The restoration of Ryans Lagoon is part of a bigger body of work being done by CFA through the Safer Together approach, which facilitates greater engagement with Traditional Owners.
“It’s been a great opportunity to work collaboratively with the Fire Management sector. But more importantly, working at that grassroots level and enabling Traditional Owners and custodians to apply fire to Country,” Michael said.
“That’s the most important outcome, is having that bottom-up approach.”
Beau Murray, a Water Officer at DDAC, spoke about the impact of the partnership.
“Having the Aunt and Uncles partner with CFA and FFMVic for so long, it’s been a really positive partnership. To have their support with cultural burns, it just works really well.” Beau said.
The recent burn is the third that DDAC have carried out at Ryans Lagoon, and the positive impacts of traditional land management are already prominent.
“It’s been turned from what was previously just a cow paddock into the reserve that it is now. To see that the site is being looked after, after being degraded for so long, it’s really great,” Beau said.
Submitted by Alison Smirnoff -
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Targeting criminals, not Kiwi businesses
Source: New Zealand Government
Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee today announced further steps in the Government’s overhaul of the AML/CFT regime, strengthening efforts to combat serious financial crime.
“This Government is serious about targeting criminals, not tying up legitimate businesses in unnecessary red tape,” Mrs McKee says.
“Cabinet has agreed to introduce a bill to strengthen enforcement powers for Police and regulators to crack down on those involved in money laundering.
“It will also establish a new financial sanctions supervisory regime and initiate engagement on a sustainable levy to fund AML/CFT system improvements.
“The new approach will deliver more clarity and consistency for businesses while maintaining a strong focus on preventing criminal misuse of the financial system.
“An upper limit will be set on how much cash can be transferred internationally ($5,000 per transfer), reducing the ability of the criminal organisation to move its funds offshore.
“We will also make it more difficult for criminals to convert cash to high-risk assets such as crypto currencies by banning crypto ATMs.
“We will also enable the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) to order banks and other businesses subject to the AML/CFT Act to provide ongoing relevant information on persons of interest. The FIU will also be able to order the production of important contextual information other businesses on the financial activities of persons of interest. This will enable the more effective development of the financial intelligence needed to bring the criminals to justice.
“Since 2019, the global financial and regulatory landscape has shifted significantly. We need a smarter, more agile AML/CFT system – one that targets criminals ability to launder money, while enabling New Zealand businesses to operate efficiently and competitively.
“Already, progress is being made. Two amendment bills currently before Parliament will remove some of the most burdensome compliance requirements, delivering practical relief for businesses by the end of the year.
“I have also this week announced plans to remove address verification requirements for many lower-risk customers and relax due diligence requirements for lower-risk trusts.
“This means businesses can focus their time and resources where the real risks lie, rather than being stuck chasing paperwork from low-risk clients.
“These are the types of issues businesses have raised with us, and we’re acting. This is not about dropping standards, it’s about applying them intelligently.
“We want New Zealand to be one of the easiest places in the world to do legitimate business and one of the hardest for criminals to hide. By cutting unnecessary red tape, we’re giving honest businesses room to grow, while sharpening our focus on serious threats,” Mrs McKee says.
Targeted consultation with industry and stakeholders will begin shortly to inform the new national strategy and levy framework.
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MIL-OSI New Zealand: Targeting criminals, not Kiwi businesses
Source: New Zealand Government
Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee today announced further steps in the Government’s overhaul of the AML/CFT regime, strengthening efforts to combat serious financial crime.
“This Government is serious about targeting criminals, not tying up legitimate businesses in unnecessary red tape,” Mrs McKee says.
“Cabinet has agreed to introduce a bill to strengthen enforcement powers for Police and regulators to crack down on those involved in money laundering.
“It will also establish a new financial sanctions supervisory regime and initiate engagement on a sustainable levy to fund AML/CFT system improvements.
“The new approach will deliver more clarity and consistency for businesses while maintaining a strong focus on preventing criminal misuse of the financial system.
“An upper limit will be set on how much cash can be transferred internationally ($5,000 per transfer), reducing the ability of the criminal organisation to move its funds offshore.
“We will also make it more difficult for criminals to convert cash to high-risk assets such as crypto currencies by banning crypto ATMs.
“We will also enable the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) to order banks and other businesses subject to the AML/CFT Act to provide ongoing relevant information on persons of interest. The FIU will also be able to order the production of important contextual information other businesses on the financial activities of persons of interest. This will enable the more effective development of the financial intelligence needed to bring the criminals to justice.
“Since 2019, the global financial and regulatory landscape has shifted significantly. We need a smarter, more agile AML/CFT system – one that targets criminals ability to launder money, while enabling New Zealand businesses to operate efficiently and competitively.
“Already, progress is being made. Two amendment bills currently before Parliament will remove some of the most burdensome compliance requirements, delivering practical relief for businesses by the end of the year.
“I have also this week announced plans to remove address verification requirements for many lower-risk customers and relax due diligence requirements for lower-risk trusts.
“This means businesses can focus their time and resources where the real risks lie, rather than being stuck chasing paperwork from low-risk clients.
“These are the types of issues businesses have raised with us, and we’re acting. This is not about dropping standards, it’s about applying them intelligently.
“We want New Zealand to be one of the easiest places in the world to do legitimate business and one of the hardest for criminals to hide. By cutting unnecessary red tape, we’re giving honest businesses room to grow, while sharpening our focus on serious threats,” Mrs McKee says.
Targeted consultation with industry and stakeholders will begin shortly to inform the new national strategy and levy framework.
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MIL-OSI New Zealand: Traffic delays southbound at Tristram Ave
Source: New Zealand Police
A three-vehicle-collision is causing delays for southbound traffic on SH1 at Tristram Ave.
A car towing a caravan is blocking one of two access lanes onto the motorway.
Emergency services are onsite and working to move the vehicles.
Motorists are advised to take an alternative route.
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Nicole Bremner/NZ Police
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MIL-OSI New Zealand: Traffic delays southbound at Tristram Ave
Source: New Zealand Police
A three-vehicle-collision is causing delays for southbound traffic on SH1 at Tristram Ave.
A car towing a caravan is blocking one of two access lanes onto the motorway.
Emergency services are onsite and working to move the vehicles.
Motorists are advised to take an alternative route.
ENDS
Nicole Bremner/NZ Police
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MIL-Evening Report: Are ‘ghost stores’ haunting your social media feed? How to spot and avoid them
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Gary Mortimer, Professor of Marketing and Consumer Behaviour, Queensland University of Technology
The offer pops up in your social media feed. The website is professional and the imagery illustrates an Australian coastal region, or chic inner-CBD scene.
The brand name indicates this exclusive fashion retailer is based in Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide, or an exclusive enclave such as Double Bay or Byron Bay.
The businesses have history, having apparently been “established” 30–40 years ago, and a story. The owners have reluctantly decided to close or relocate, resulting in significant discounts.
However, behind the illusion of prestige and luxury, is cheap, poorly manufactured clothing from Chinese factories.
The recent growth of these online “ghost stores” has led the Australian Consumer and Competition Commission to issue public warning notices about four websites.
Everly-melbourne.com, willowandgrace-adelaide.com, sophie-claire.com and doublebayboutique.com are the four named.
A new type of scam
The ACCC’s Targeting Scams report estimated Australians lost A$2.74 billion in 2023. Most losses were from investment scams ($1.3 billion), remote access scams ($256 million), and romance scams ($201.1 million).
Read more:
3.5 million Australians experienced fraud last year. This could be avoided through 6 simple steps
However, online ghost store scams are so new, researchers and government agencies have not yet had time to measure the financial impact these businesses are having on consumers or legitimate fashion businesses.
It is possible a consumer, once stung by a ghost store scam, will be less likely to shop with a legitimate online fashion retailer.
This type of emerging scam was touched on in a 2015 report called Framework for a Taxonomy of Fraud. The report noted there were businesses selling “worthless or non-existent products”. Their sites made:
misleading claims about products that are exaggerated, undervalued, or non-existent.
Since the beginning of 2025, the ACCC reports it has received at least 360 complaints about 60 online ghost retailers. It says many more may be operating across several social media sites.
Tricky tactics
Ghost stores use a variety of tactics to attract unsuspecting customers.
Price: Customers regularly assume higher prices mean higher quality. Most customers seeing a “leather” jacket for $19.74 on Temu would expect low quality. However, a silk maxi-dress from Everly Melbourne reduced from $209.95 to $82.95 – a 60% saving – seems reasonable and reflective of normal mid-season clearance pricing. That fact it’s still priced at more than $80 also implies good quality.
Cosmopolitan localism: Researchers have reported that so-called cosmopolitan localism fosters meaningful consumer relationships with brands. Consumers are more likely to trust a business based in Melbourne or Byron Bay over one based internationally.
Adding images of a physical store front creates credibility and “realness”. Customers feel confident to buy from a little business based in Melbourne, Sydney or somewhere well known to them.
Storytelling: Storytelling can influence shoppers’ emotions and affect purchasing. It helps stimulate deeper emotional connections to a brand. Ghost stores will regularly create a narrative around “going out of business” to justify price discounts and pull on heart-strings.
Layout: A professionally developed website, with high-quality images, detailed product information, online payment methods and order tracking, creates the illusion of authenticity. Researchers have found luxury brand website designs can create a strong sense of luxury. This increases a willingness to buy.
How to spot a “ghost”
When the post indicates “closing today” or “closing down sale ends tonight”, it is very easy to impulsively jump in to take advantage of the savings. However, before you click, check for these red flags:
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The website does not provide a contact phone number or physical address for the store. There might just be an email address or web form. Simply entering the suspected store into google maps will indicate no physical location.
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The website domain is “.com” rather than “.com.au”. This indicates the store is not an Australian-based business.
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Is the business registered? ABN Lookup is the free public view of the Australian Business Register – a quick search will identify that the Double Bay designer isn’t registered locally.
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Review platforms, including Trustpilot, often have negative reviews for the business, whereas the business’ website only features very positive reviews.
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The images of products or even the owner maybe AI generated. For example, Harry – Melbourne, is apparently an artisan watchmaker. However, simply right-clicking on the image reveals Harry is an AI-generated image.
A cautionary note
Online shopping is risky. You can’t physically touch or interact with the product to determine its quality. Three types of risks are common when shopping online. These are performance risk (it doesn’t work, doesn’t fit well, or the quality is poor), financial risk (losing your money on a poor-quality product), and time-loss risk (refund processing takes weeks).
As such, customers must trust the online retailer to act honestly and describe products accurately. When trust is breached, consumers will naturally become cautious even about legitimate online retailers.
As ghost stores scams increasingly populate social media feeds, unsuspecting consumers will continue to get caught out. This will leave legitimate retailers exposed to scepticism and mistrust.
Gary Mortimer receives funding from the Building Employer Confidence and Inclusion in Disability Grant, AusIndustry Entrepreneurs’ Program, National Clothing Textiles Stewardship Scheme, National Retail Association and Australian Retailers Association.
– ref. Are ‘ghost stores’ haunting your social media feed? How to spot and avoid them – https://theconversation.com/are-ghost-stores-haunting-your-social-media-feed-how-to-spot-and-avoid-them-260583
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MIL-OSI Submissions: Asia pacific – UN flags low uptake of sustainable trade facilitation measures and support for vulnerable groups – UN ESCAP
Source: United Nations – ESCAPThe United Nations is urging governments to accelerate efforts to make trade systems more inclusive and sustainable, highlighting limited support for vulnerable groups including small and medium-sized enterprises, women traders and the agricultural sector despite steady progress in broader trade facilitation.
“The global trading environment has recently faced unprecedented challenges. Extensive tariff measures have introduced uncertainty and increased trade costs, while broader disruptions have exposed vulnerabilities in global supply chains. These tr
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MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by FS at Hong Kong – Korea Capital Markets Conference (English only) (with photos)
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Following is the speech by the Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, at the Hong Kong – Korea Capital Markets Conference held in Seoul, Korea today (July 9):
Mr Seo (Chairman of the Korea Financial Investment Association, Mr Seo Yoo-seok), Greg (Managing Director and Head of Markets, the Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited, Mr Gregory Yu), Ms Ding Chen (Chief Executive Officer of CSOP Asset Management Limited), ladies and gentlemen,
Hong Kong: what’s up -
MIL-Evening Report: NZ Post is the latest company to drop its climate targets – another sign business is struggling to decarbonise
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Pii-Tuulia Nikula, Associate Professor, School of Business, Eastern Institute of Technology
NZ Post committed to cutting its emissions by 32% by 2030 (based on 2018 levels), but recently announced it would abandon its climate target.
The company was part of the Science Based Target initiative (SBTi), the leading international body allowing businesses worldwide to set and validate targets which they can then promote as backed by science.
More than 10,000 businesses have joined SBTi and the database currently includes 36 New Zealand businesses with active targets or commitments.
In recent years, however, well known businesses have been abandoning SBTi. NZ Post’s decision follows Air New Zealand’s announcement to withdraw last year and Auckland Airport’s less publicised decision not to renew its SBTi target.
NZ Post was one of the early adopters of SBTi in New Zealand. Its initial commitment in 2018 included not only the company’s own direct emissions (known as scope 1) but also purchased energy (scope 2) and other indirect emissions (known as scope 3, such as emissions from air freight or waste disposal).
In the past few years, NZ Post has signalled its intention to update its target to pursue even greater reductions of 42%. In 2023, it made a commitment to align itself with a pathway to achieve net zero by 2050.
But the company has now decided to fully withdraw from SBTi. NZ Post’s website announcement states:
After careful consideration and a thorough assessment of both technical feasibility and financial implications, it has become clear that our target is no longer feasible at a technical level and, given the scale of investment required, under present economic conditions.
NZ Post seems to have found itself in the contradiction between economic objectives and climate action. Ambitious climate action seems to rarely win such a battle.
The company was already questioning its ability to meet its SBTi targets in its 2022 and 2023 climate disclosures. Its parcel volumes were growing and it struggled with emissions associated with heavy freight and aviation.
It also stated its emissions had increased due to the acquisition of Fliway Group, improved supply-chain data, and emission factor changes. This indicated it would struggle to meet even less ambitious climate targets.
Why this is a problem
One might commend NZ Post for their transparency in disclosing their decision to withdraw from SBTi. However, so far the announcement hasn’t been included in the company’s media releases and remains tucked away in the sustainability section.
The broader issue is that businesses can use SBTi to gain reputational value without following up with required decarbonisation. The current SBTi setup has some limitations that allow such behaviour.
For instance, companies can make an SBTi commitment and promote it for two years before having to submit an actual target for validation. Businesses can also promote their SBTi targets for years without making required progress. Finally, some SBTi businesses provide limited reporting, making assessment of their progress difficult.
In a 2025 consultation, SBTi acknowledged some of these problems and signalled its plan to enhance tracking and accountability.
Climate action vs profitability
There are other issues that make transparency limited. For instance, businesses such as Air New Zealand seem to be able to withdraw from the SBTi and fully disappear from the SBTi public target dashboard, making it difficult to track those that have decided to withdraw.
While most SBTi businesses are probably not joining the scheme with the intention of “carbonwashing”, the ability of many to meet their targets seems uncertain.
In business contexts, climate action remains subordinate to profitability and revenue growth objectives. Hence, not many businesses are willing to pursue all potential ways to meet their targets as this would require making difficult decisions around economic objectives.
Many companies struggle to make progress towards science-based goals or don’t have credible transition plans aligned with the goal to keep overall warming at 1.5°C.
The question remains whether the current SBTi engagement of businesses genuinely reflects ambitious climate action or whether it is merely designed to give stakeholders the impression of global progress through symbolic commitments.
In its 2024 climate disclosure NZ Post states:
The more organisations committed to the science-based reductions, the greater our collective ability to achieve decarbonisation.
The opposite is true as well. The decision of NZ Post and other companies to drop their SBTi targets may diminish the collective ability of businesses in New Zealand to achieve decarbonisation aligning with global climate goals.
SBTi’s plan to implement new monitoring and reporting mechanisms would enhance accountability. However, it will not make meeting targets any easier. Committing to and promoting ambitious but potentially unrealistic targets can cause reputational damage.
A safer pathway for many businesses wanting to do as much as they can within the boundaries of the current economic system may be a public disclosure of their support for climate action, transparency about the actions the business is taking, and providing transparent and detailed emissions reporting.
Pii-Tuulia Nikula does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
– ref. NZ Post is the latest company to drop its climate targets – another sign business is struggling to decarbonise – https://theconversation.com/nz-post-is-the-latest-company-to-drop-its-climate-targets-another-sign-business-is-struggling-to-decarbonise-260589
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MIL-OSI Video: Ask the ECB Forum: defence, tariffs and AI – insights from top experts
Source: European Central Bank (video statements)
Can an increase in defence spending affect investments in green energy and digital infrastructure? What do US tariff threats mean for the ECB? How does the ECB support smaller countries in the Eurosystem? And is AI an opportunity or a risk for the financial future?
In the last episode of our Sintra series, our host Stefania Secola takes us on a walk around the ECB Forum and gets top experts to answer your questions.
The views expressed are those of the speakers and not necessarily those of the European Central Bank.
Published on 9 July 2025 and recorded during the ECB Forum on Central Banking in Sintra between 30 June and 2 July 2025.
In this episode:
02:05 Defence spending
Can an increase in defence spending affect investments in green energy and digital infrastructure?08:08 Tariffs
How do US tariff threats affect the economy? What do they mean for the ECB? And what are the opportunities for Europe?14:14 Smaller vs. bigger economies in the Eurosystem
Does the ECB prioritise bigger economies over smaller ones? Do smaller countries, such as Slovenia, benefit from the ECB’s monetary policy?18:55 Artificial intelligence
Is AI an opportunity or a risk for the financial future?Further readings:
Gensler, G., Johnson, S., Panizza, U. and Weder di Mauro, B.: The Economic Consequences of The Second Trump Administration: A Preliminary Assessment
https://cepr.org/publications/books-and-reports/economic-consequences-second-trump-administration-preliminaryThe ECB Podcast: AI: economic game changer or job taker?
ECB Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/europeancentralbank/ -
MIL-OSI Russia: China to develop zero-carbon industrial parks to accelerate country’s green transformation
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
BEIJING, July 9 (Xinhua) — China on Tuesday released a document supporting the development of zero- or near-zero-carbon-emission industrial parks, aiming to accelerate the country’s green transformation.
A document released by China’s National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) and other government departments calls on regions with suitable conditions to build zero-carbon or near-zero-carbon industrial parks that can reduce carbon emissions “to almost zero” through advance planning and design, technology and management standards, etc.
The document outlines eight major tasks in such aspects as transforming energy structures, improving energy efficiency, optimizing industrial structures, promoting resource conservation, upgrading infrastructure, applying advanced technologies, improving energy consumption and carbon dioxide emission management, and promoting the reform and innovation of industrial parks.
To support the construction of zero-carbon industrial parks, the SCRR said it would use existing funding channels and encourage local authorities to provide financial support for the construction of industrial parks.
Industrial parks will also be supported in attracting talent, technology and professional institutions to promote the upgrading of energy-saving systems, carbon accounting and carbon footprint certification of products. -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: Exclusive: Russian-Chinese EXPO is one of the key events influencing the development of trade and economic cooperation — Russian Trade Representative to China
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
Ekaterinburg /Russia/, July 9 /Xinhua/ – The Russian-Chinese EXPO, which is being held for the 9th time, is one of the key events influencing the development of trade and economic cooperation between the two countries, said Russian Trade Representative to China Alexey Dakhnovsky.
“The Russian-Chinese EXPO is one of the key events influencing the development of bilateral trade and economic cooperation,” A. Dakhnovsky said in an interview with the Xinhua news agency.
According to him, the significance of this event is difficult to overestimate. Russia and China have created a “basis for deepening cooperation, in order to develop industrial cooperation, technology transfer, investment cooperation, in order to work in innovative areas. And it is very important, A. Dakhnovsky is sure, that the Russian-Chinese EXPO is taking place simultaneously with the Innoprom exhibition, the largest exhibition in Russia demonstrating the achievements of Russian industry. “It seems to me that Chinese companies and Russian companies should use the chance they have to intensify bilateral cooperation in new areas,” the trade representative noted.
Touching on the topic of regional cooperation, he said that the main event of EXPO for many years has been the regional forum, in which representatives of many Chinese and Russian regions participate.
“We already have quite a lot of agreements between regions on cooperation, on twinning. These agreements need to be translated into a more practical plane, that is, against the background of developing humanitarian cooperation, we should also develop practical things, that is, trade, investment and technological cooperation,” A. Dakhnovsky emphasized. –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: In Belarus, the new car market grew by 21.3 percent in the first half of 2025 — BAA
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
MINSK, July 9 (Xinhua) — The new car market in Belarus grew by 21.3 percent in the first half of 2025. A total of 24,634 cars were sold in the country over the six months, the Belarusian Automobile Association (BAA) reported on Tuesday.
At the same time, BAA noted that the actual growth of the Belarusian market for new cars is due to sales in the first quarter of this year, and since April, the country’s car market has been stagnating. Since March, the number of banks offering loans for the purchase of cars has significantly decreased. In addition, new restrictions have come into effect in the leasing segment for individuals in Belarus.
“As a result, in June, for the first time in the last year, the new car market showed a decline. In total, 3,841 cars were sold in June of this year, which is 13 percent lower than the sales of official dealers in the same period of 2024,” BAA noted.
The BAA also noted that good sales results last month were shown by brands that were able to offer financing options for the purchase of their models.
As for electric vehicles, the BAA reported that the emerging trend towards growth in the electric transport market in the country continues to gain momentum. Thus, 664 electric cars were sold in June, which amounted to more than 17 percent of all passenger car sales excluding commercial vehicles. –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 China: Tianzhou-8 cargo craft re-enters atmosphere
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BEIJING, July 9 — China’s Tianzhou-8 cargo craft has re-entered the atmosphere in a controlled manner at 6:42 a.m. (Beijing Time) Wednesday, according to the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA).
Most of the spacecraft’s components burned up during the re-entry, and a small amount of its debris fell into the scheduled safe waters, said the CMSA.
Launched on Nov. 15, 2024 from the Wenchang Spacecraft Launch Site in the southern island province of Hainan, the Tianzhou-8 was loaded with supplies for astronauts, propellants, and devices for applications and experiments.
The Tianzhou-8 separated from the orbiting Tiangong space station combination on Tuesday and then entered its independent flight phase.
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MIL-OSI China: Tianzhou-8 cargo craft re-enters atmosphere
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BEIJING, July 9 — China’s Tianzhou-8 cargo craft has re-entered the atmosphere in a controlled manner at 6:42 a.m. (Beijing Time) Wednesday, according to the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA).
Most of the spacecraft’s components burned up during the re-entry, and a small amount of its debris fell into the scheduled safe waters, said the CMSA.
Launched on Nov. 15, 2024 from the Wenchang Spacecraft Launch Site in the southern island province of Hainan, the Tianzhou-8 was loaded with supplies for astronauts, propellants, and devices for applications and experiments.
The Tianzhou-8 separated from the orbiting Tiangong space station combination on Tuesday and then entered its independent flight phase.
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MIL-OSI China: GBA to host upcoming 15th National Games
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
The 15th National Games, to be jointly organized by Guangdong province and the Hong Kong and Macao special administrative regions, will accelerate the integrated development of the Greater Bay Area, according to a news conference held in Guangzhou, capital of Guangdong on Tuesday.
Under the guidance of the General Administration of Sport, the China Disabled Persons’ Federation and the Hong Kong and Macao Work Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, the three regions have reached consensus in six key areas through high-density communication and negotiations, said Huang Mingzhong, director of the office of the 15th National Games Organizing Committee.
“The areas are cross-border events, port clearance, personnel and vehicle documents, food safety, green event management and event schedule,” Huang said at the news conference, which disclosed the progress of the three regions’ joint organizing work for the 15th National Games.
“The three regions have now explored a joint competition model of ‘three regions with three similarities’, indicating ‘same frequency communication, concerted decision-making and synchronous execution’,” he said.
“Taking the emblem design as an example, our emblem consists of three petals. With Guangdong’s kapok, Hong Kong’s bauhinia and Macao’s lotus overlapping and rotating, it forms a concentric floral pattern, symbolizing the unity and deep integration of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area,” said Huang, who is also deputy secretary-general of the Guangdong provincial government.
Huang revealed that the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Road Cycling Race, as a part of the 15th National Games, will take place in the three regions.
“At that time, cyclists will depart from Zhuhai and first reach Macao via the Macao Bridge and then arrive at Hong Kong’s Lantau Island via Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge,” said Huang.
Zhang Zhihua, deputy director of the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the People’s Government of Guangdong province, said relevant departments have set up a dedicated channel at entry and exit ports, allowing relevant delegations to enter and leave whenever they need.
“We have also opened a green channel for our ticket holders, with nationwide application for entry and exit documents,” he said.
“With special treatment for entry and exit, we will contribute to the development of a one-hour life circle within the GBA,” said Zhang, who is also the deputy director of the coordinating department of the 15th National Games Organizing Committee.
During the National Games, visitors can enjoy entry and exit without the need to show documents, he said.
The 15th National Games, the 12th National Games for Persons with Disabilities, and the 9th National Special Olympic Games, are expected to attract more than 6,000 athletes from the Chinese mainland to cross the borders to Hong Kong and Macao to compete, while another more than 3,000 athletes from the two Chinese SARs are expected to come to the mainland for the competition, according to Zhang.
Guangzhou will host the opening ceremony, while Shenzhen, which borders Hong Kong, will host the closing ceremony.
The 15th National Games will take place from Nov 9 to 21.
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MIL-OSI China: GBA to host upcoming 15th National Games
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
The 15th National Games, to be jointly organized by Guangdong province and the Hong Kong and Macao special administrative regions, will accelerate the integrated development of the Greater Bay Area, according to a news conference held in Guangzhou, capital of Guangdong on Tuesday.
Under the guidance of the General Administration of Sport, the China Disabled Persons’ Federation and the Hong Kong and Macao Work Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, the three regions have reached consensus in six key areas through high-density communication and negotiations, said Huang Mingzhong, director of the office of the 15th National Games Organizing Committee.
“The areas are cross-border events, port clearance, personnel and vehicle documents, food safety, green event management and event schedule,” Huang said at the news conference, which disclosed the progress of the three regions’ joint organizing work for the 15th National Games.
“The three regions have now explored a joint competition model of ‘three regions with three similarities’, indicating ‘same frequency communication, concerted decision-making and synchronous execution’,” he said.
“Taking the emblem design as an example, our emblem consists of three petals. With Guangdong’s kapok, Hong Kong’s bauhinia and Macao’s lotus overlapping and rotating, it forms a concentric floral pattern, symbolizing the unity and deep integration of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area,” said Huang, who is also deputy secretary-general of the Guangdong provincial government.
Huang revealed that the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Road Cycling Race, as a part of the 15th National Games, will take place in the three regions.
“At that time, cyclists will depart from Zhuhai and first reach Macao via the Macao Bridge and then arrive at Hong Kong’s Lantau Island via Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge,” said Huang.
Zhang Zhihua, deputy director of the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the People’s Government of Guangdong province, said relevant departments have set up a dedicated channel at entry and exit ports, allowing relevant delegations to enter and leave whenever they need.
“We have also opened a green channel for our ticket holders, with nationwide application for entry and exit documents,” he said.
“With special treatment for entry and exit, we will contribute to the development of a one-hour life circle within the GBA,” said Zhang, who is also the deputy director of the coordinating department of the 15th National Games Organizing Committee.
During the National Games, visitors can enjoy entry and exit without the need to show documents, he said.
The 15th National Games, the 12th National Games for Persons with Disabilities, and the 9th National Special Olympic Games, are expected to attract more than 6,000 athletes from the Chinese mainland to cross the borders to Hong Kong and Macao to compete, while another more than 3,000 athletes from the two Chinese SARs are expected to come to the mainland for the competition, according to Zhang.
Guangzhou will host the opening ceremony, while Shenzhen, which borders Hong Kong, will host the closing ceremony.
The 15th National Games will take place from Nov 9 to 21.
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MIL-OSI China: Alcaraz, Sabalenka take contrasting routes into Wimbledon semis
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Two-time defending champion Carlos Alcaraz advanced to the Wimbledon semifinals after ending British hope Cameron Norrie’s run with a dominant 6-2, 6-3, 6-3 victory on Tuesday.
The Spaniard delivered a masterclass performance, firing 13 aces and converting 5 of 11 break points to seal the win in just 99 minutes.
“I’m really happy. To play another Wimbledon semifinal is super special,” said Alcaraz.
The second seed will next face Taylor Fritz of the United States, who reached his first-ever Wimbledon semifinal after defeating Russia’s Karen Khachanov 6-3, 6-4, 1-6, 7-6 (4).
Women’s world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka battled into the semifinals with a hard-fought 4-6, 6-2, 6-4 win over Laura Siegemund.
The title favorite had to overcome a tough challenge from the 37-year-old German, twice recovering from a break down in the deciding set to secure victory.
Sabalenka will now face 13th-seeded American Amanda Anisimova, who edged past Russia’s Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova 6-1, 7-6 (9), for a place in the final.
Chinese veteran Zhang Shuai and El Salvador’s Marcelo Arevalo saw their mixed doubles campaign end in the semifinals, losing 7-6 (6), 7-6 (4) to Joe Salisbury of Britain and Brazil’s Luisa Stefani.
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MIL-OSI China: Alcaraz, Sabalenka take contrasting routes into Wimbledon semis
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Two-time defending champion Carlos Alcaraz advanced to the Wimbledon semifinals after ending British hope Cameron Norrie’s run with a dominant 6-2, 6-3, 6-3 victory on Tuesday.
The Spaniard delivered a masterclass performance, firing 13 aces and converting 5 of 11 break points to seal the win in just 99 minutes.
“I’m really happy. To play another Wimbledon semifinal is super special,” said Alcaraz.
The second seed will next face Taylor Fritz of the United States, who reached his first-ever Wimbledon semifinal after defeating Russia’s Karen Khachanov 6-3, 6-4, 1-6, 7-6 (4).
Women’s world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka battled into the semifinals with a hard-fought 4-6, 6-2, 6-4 win over Laura Siegemund.
The title favorite had to overcome a tough challenge from the 37-year-old German, twice recovering from a break down in the deciding set to secure victory.
Sabalenka will now face 13th-seeded American Amanda Anisimova, who edged past Russia’s Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova 6-1, 7-6 (9), for a place in the final.
Chinese veteran Zhang Shuai and El Salvador’s Marcelo Arevalo saw their mixed doubles campaign end in the semifinals, losing 7-6 (6), 7-6 (4) to Joe Salisbury of Britain and Brazil’s Luisa Stefani.
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MIL-OSI China: Xiplomacy: Xi’s reply inspires American, Chinese youths to carry on friendship forged through pickleball
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Xi’s reply inspires American, Chinese youths to carry on friendship forged through pickleball
“We are extremely honored to receive a response from President Xi,” said Jeffrey Sullivan, head of the U.S. youth pickleball cultural exchange delegation from Montgomery County, Maryland.
Chinese President Xi Jinping recently replied to the delegation’s letter, congratulating them on their successful visit to China. In April, Sullivan led a group of 44 teachers and students from 13 U.S. schools to China under Xi’s “50,000 in Five Years” initiative, which aims to bring 50,000 young Americans to China for exchange and study programs in a five-year span.
After visiting Shanghai, Shenzhen and Beijing, the delegation sent a letter to Xi, expressing their gratitude for the initiative, noting they had forged unforgettable friendships with Chinese youths during the trip.
In his reply, Xi said he was pleased to see that pickleball has become a new bond for youth exchanges between China and the United States. The future of China-U.S. relations depends on the youth, said Xi, expressing the hope that the delegation members will become a new generation of ambassadors for friendship between the two countries and make greater contributions to enhancing the friendship between the two peoples.
A TRANSFORMATIVE JOURNEY
“Thank you again for your vision and commitment to providing opportunities for our students and our countries to come together and build friendships, relationships and cultural learning opportunities,” the delegation wrote in the letter to Xi.
Hailing the trip as life-changing, Sullivan said it enabled his delegation to immerse themselves in the Chinese culture and experience interpersonal relationships.
“That was made possible because of the hospitality of the Chinese people, who opened their doors to us, who served us wonderful food, who had wonderful performances showcasing the culture and traditions of China,” he said, adding, “It (the visit) would be something that we would take with us forever.”
Echoing Sullivan, Wang Pengfei, one of the initiators of the tour, said, “We want young Americans to see today’s China for themselves.”
“Every high-five on the court, every hands-on experience in traditional craft workshops and every visit to a high-tech company is reshaping how they perceive China’s development,” said Wang.
For student Isabella Brant, celebrating her birthday in China was the most memorable part of the trip. She recalled playing pickleball with her Chinese partners on that day, receiving flowers, but more importantly, gaining friendship.
“Definitely life-changing!” said Brant, adding, “I was a little nervous to go over to China, but it definitely changed my perspective on things and how I viewed everything.”
NEW BONDS
“It was an amazing trip for our students to build friendships through sport,” Sullivan said, adding that the exchange between American and Chinese youths during this tour is “not just on the pickleball court, but also off the court.”
Pickleball, a paddle sport that originated in the United States that blends elements of tennis, badminton and table tennis, is easy to pick up for beginners and has rapidly gained popularity in China.
According to Sullivan, Montgomery is the first U.S. school district to offer pickleball as a varsity sport, as this activity is fully inclusive and continues to bring people of all ability levels together.
The Montgomery County public schools have now begun cooperation with Shenzhen Nanshan District Education Bureau, education groups of Beijing Middle School and Beijing No. 10 Middle School to establish long-term partnerships, with pickleball included as a key area of exchange.
“I witnessed firsthand how the power of sports can transcend borders and bring people from different cultural backgrounds closer together,” said Xie Yuan, a student from Wenhua School in Shenzhen who took part in the event.
Speaking of the friends she made during the tour, Ella Geary, a student from the delegation, said, “I find it amazing that you can just instantly bond with someone who lives on the other side of the globe.”
Echoing Geary, Sullivan’s daughter, Reagan Sullivan, also a student from the delegation, depicted the bonds they built as “amazing and unbreakable.”
Pickleball has become a new bond for building friendships, she said.
PEOPLE-TO-PEOPLE FRIENDSHIP
In April 1971, a 15-member U.S. table tennis delegation took a historic trip to China, becoming the first delegation of Americans to visit China in decades.
Recalling the China-U.S. “Ping-Pong Diplomacy” 54 years ago, Sullivan said that sports have a unique power to bring people together.
Beyond discovering China’s cultural charm and technological innovation, many students played Ping-Pong for the first time. Sullivan said a visit to the China Table Tennis Museum gave them deeper insight into the history of “Ping-Pong Diplomacy,” which once helped bridge U.S.-China relations.
Upon hearing Xi’s reply, Stephen Mull, former U.S. acting undersecretary of state for political affairs, emphasized the unifying power of sports.
“It encourages each participant to be the very best version of himself or herself while underscoring the common humanity that binds us all together on the field of play,” he explained.
“Pickleball has served as a unique and joyful bridge between our two cultures, one that allowed for connection, mutual respect and shared learning. Like your vision, we believe that sports engagement is essential in building the foundation for lasting international friendship,” the delegation wrote in the letter to Xi.
The vision refers to Xi’s “50,000 in Five Years” initiative, launched in November 2023. Nearly 15,000 American youth visited China by the end of 2024 under the initiative, observing China with their own eyes and traveling the expanse of the country on their own feet.
“If I had the opportunity, I would definitely go back,” said Joel Geary, a student from the delegation.
“We are all part of the ‘50,000 in Five Years’ initiative,” said Sun Yuyan, a student who participated in the event from Shanghai Luwan High School, adding, “The future of China-U.S. relations should be a shared future shaped by our generation, one that lives up to the promise of our youth.”
“I would love to organize additional exchanges and opportunities, whether it’s through pickleball or other sports, using them as a platform to bring people together,” said Sullivan.
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MIL-OSI China: Xiplomacy: Xi’s reply inspires American, Chinese youths to carry on friendship forged through pickleball
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Xi’s reply inspires American, Chinese youths to carry on friendship forged through pickleball
“We are extremely honored to receive a response from President Xi,” said Jeffrey Sullivan, head of the U.S. youth pickleball cultural exchange delegation from Montgomery County, Maryland.
Chinese President Xi Jinping recently replied to the delegation’s letter, congratulating them on their successful visit to China. In April, Sullivan led a group of 44 teachers and students from 13 U.S. schools to China under Xi’s “50,000 in Five Years” initiative, which aims to bring 50,000 young Americans to China for exchange and study programs in a five-year span.
After visiting Shanghai, Shenzhen and Beijing, the delegation sent a letter to Xi, expressing their gratitude for the initiative, noting they had forged unforgettable friendships with Chinese youths during the trip.
In his reply, Xi said he was pleased to see that pickleball has become a new bond for youth exchanges between China and the United States. The future of China-U.S. relations depends on the youth, said Xi, expressing the hope that the delegation members will become a new generation of ambassadors for friendship between the two countries and make greater contributions to enhancing the friendship between the two peoples.
A TRANSFORMATIVE JOURNEY
“Thank you again for your vision and commitment to providing opportunities for our students and our countries to come together and build friendships, relationships and cultural learning opportunities,” the delegation wrote in the letter to Xi.
Hailing the trip as life-changing, Sullivan said it enabled his delegation to immerse themselves in the Chinese culture and experience interpersonal relationships.
“That was made possible because of the hospitality of the Chinese people, who opened their doors to us, who served us wonderful food, who had wonderful performances showcasing the culture and traditions of China,” he said, adding, “It (the visit) would be something that we would take with us forever.”
Echoing Sullivan, Wang Pengfei, one of the initiators of the tour, said, “We want young Americans to see today’s China for themselves.”
“Every high-five on the court, every hands-on experience in traditional craft workshops and every visit to a high-tech company is reshaping how they perceive China’s development,” said Wang.
For student Isabella Brant, celebrating her birthday in China was the most memorable part of the trip. She recalled playing pickleball with her Chinese partners on that day, receiving flowers, but more importantly, gaining friendship.
“Definitely life-changing!” said Brant, adding, “I was a little nervous to go over to China, but it definitely changed my perspective on things and how I viewed everything.”
NEW BONDS
“It was an amazing trip for our students to build friendships through sport,” Sullivan said, adding that the exchange between American and Chinese youths during this tour is “not just on the pickleball court, but also off the court.”
Pickleball, a paddle sport that originated in the United States that blends elements of tennis, badminton and table tennis, is easy to pick up for beginners and has rapidly gained popularity in China.
According to Sullivan, Montgomery is the first U.S. school district to offer pickleball as a varsity sport, as this activity is fully inclusive and continues to bring people of all ability levels together.
The Montgomery County public schools have now begun cooperation with Shenzhen Nanshan District Education Bureau, education groups of Beijing Middle School and Beijing No. 10 Middle School to establish long-term partnerships, with pickleball included as a key area of exchange.
“I witnessed firsthand how the power of sports can transcend borders and bring people from different cultural backgrounds closer together,” said Xie Yuan, a student from Wenhua School in Shenzhen who took part in the event.
Speaking of the friends she made during the tour, Ella Geary, a student from the delegation, said, “I find it amazing that you can just instantly bond with someone who lives on the other side of the globe.”
Echoing Geary, Sullivan’s daughter, Reagan Sullivan, also a student from the delegation, depicted the bonds they built as “amazing and unbreakable.”
Pickleball has become a new bond for building friendships, she said.
PEOPLE-TO-PEOPLE FRIENDSHIP
In April 1971, a 15-member U.S. table tennis delegation took a historic trip to China, becoming the first delegation of Americans to visit China in decades.
Recalling the China-U.S. “Ping-Pong Diplomacy” 54 years ago, Sullivan said that sports have a unique power to bring people together.
Beyond discovering China’s cultural charm and technological innovation, many students played Ping-Pong for the first time. Sullivan said a visit to the China Table Tennis Museum gave them deeper insight into the history of “Ping-Pong Diplomacy,” which once helped bridge U.S.-China relations.
Upon hearing Xi’s reply, Stephen Mull, former U.S. acting undersecretary of state for political affairs, emphasized the unifying power of sports.
“It encourages each participant to be the very best version of himself or herself while underscoring the common humanity that binds us all together on the field of play,” he explained.
“Pickleball has served as a unique and joyful bridge between our two cultures, one that allowed for connection, mutual respect and shared learning. Like your vision, we believe that sports engagement is essential in building the foundation for lasting international friendship,” the delegation wrote in the letter to Xi.
The vision refers to Xi’s “50,000 in Five Years” initiative, launched in November 2023. Nearly 15,000 American youth visited China by the end of 2024 under the initiative, observing China with their own eyes and traveling the expanse of the country on their own feet.
“If I had the opportunity, I would definitely go back,” said Joel Geary, a student from the delegation.
“We are all part of the ‘50,000 in Five Years’ initiative,” said Sun Yuyan, a student who participated in the event from Shanghai Luwan High School, adding, “The future of China-U.S. relations should be a shared future shaped by our generation, one that lives up to the promise of our youth.”
“I would love to organize additional exchanges and opportunities, whether it’s through pickleball or other sports, using them as a platform to bring people together,” said Sullivan.
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MIL-OSI China: Rural China embraces lifestyle-focused green tourism
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Over the past five years, Yang Chenglan, a 39-year-old entrepreneur of Dong ethnicity living in southwest China’s mountainous region, has transformed her business from trading brocade cloth and traditional garments to curating immersive lifestyle experiences.
Back in 2016, after seven years away, Yang returned to her hometown with a mission to revive her community’s traditional hand-weaving practices. A native of Fengdeng Dong Village in Guizhou Province, she initially led a small team of weavers, embroiderers, and dyers to produce Dong brocade and traditional costumes. Before long, annual sales surpassed one million yuan (about 139,800 U.S. dollars).
“Nowadays, we welcome visitors to experience the craft themselves. They can stay in our village, work at our looms, and get a feel for our way of life,” Yang said.
To meet growing demand, she set up workshops for brocade weaving, dyeing, and costume-making. Prices for these hands-on courses range from just over 100 yuan to several hundred yuan, and the response has been overwhelmingly positive.
“Customers increasingly value hands-on experience,” Yang said. “They join our workshops, integrate into daily village life, and often purchase products before they leave.”
Yang’s success story is a microcosm of the broader shift from “selling products” to “selling lifestyles” in pursuit of greener spending habits. By championing green consumption and promoting low-carbon production and lifestyles, China is accelerating its green transformation while meeting people’s rising aspirations for a better life.
Traveling for events has become a popular “culture-sports-tourism” package in the country in recent years. Whether following a cycling race, attending an opera performance, sampling local customs, or exploring cultural relics, more and more urbanites are discovering China’s rural landscapes through fresh, green experiences.
In Guizhou Province, for example, a series of “village-branded” events such as the Village Super League (Cun Chao), Village Basketball Association (Cun BA), Village Song and Village Marathon have drawn strong tourist interest. Originating in Rongjiang County in 2023, the village football league attracted over 2.41 million visitors between Jan. 1 and May 5 this year, marking an 11.77 percent increase year on year.
“We chase the ‘Cun Chao’ not only for the football and local culture but also to immerse ourselves in local customs,” said Wu Qilin, a frequent visitor from Chengdu, southwest China’s Sichuan Province.
Data from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism show that in the first quarter of 2025, China’s rural tourism received 707 million visits, up 8.9 percent year on year.
Rural tourism has evolved from showcasing scenic landscapes to marketing local products, and has now progressed to offering immersive lifestyle experiences, said Yang Lu, deputy director of the Rongjiang County bureau of culture, sports, radio, television and tourism. “We expect visitors not only to enjoy the mountains and rivers but also to take home lasting memories and emotional connections.”
Beyond tourism, other industries are also embracing the green shift. In Guizhou, the heartland of sauce-flavor baijiu, a distilled spirit, local officials and entrepreneurs have urged a shift from merely “selling liquor” to “selling lifestyles” to better meet diverse consumer demands.
In Maotai Township, Zunyi City — the historic birthplace of China’s signature spirit — efforts are underway to develop showcase distilleries, gourmet streets and integrated liquor-tourism zones, all aimed at creating rich cultural and culinary experiences.
Distilleries in Maotai are transforming their approach by crafting immersive experiences that weave together the region’s landscapes, culture, cuisine, and renowned spirits, according to representatives from local distilleries.
This shift from simply selling liquor to promoting a holistic lifestyle not only revitalizes the industry but also supports the broader move toward sustainable, green consumption, they said. ■
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MIL-OSI China: Rural China embraces lifestyle-focused green tourism
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Over the past five years, Yang Chenglan, a 39-year-old entrepreneur of Dong ethnicity living in southwest China’s mountainous region, has transformed her business from trading brocade cloth and traditional garments to curating immersive lifestyle experiences.
Back in 2016, after seven years away, Yang returned to her hometown with a mission to revive her community’s traditional hand-weaving practices. A native of Fengdeng Dong Village in Guizhou Province, she initially led a small team of weavers, embroiderers, and dyers to produce Dong brocade and traditional costumes. Before long, annual sales surpassed one million yuan (about 139,800 U.S. dollars).
“Nowadays, we welcome visitors to experience the craft themselves. They can stay in our village, work at our looms, and get a feel for our way of life,” Yang said.
To meet growing demand, she set up workshops for brocade weaving, dyeing, and costume-making. Prices for these hands-on courses range from just over 100 yuan to several hundred yuan, and the response has been overwhelmingly positive.
“Customers increasingly value hands-on experience,” Yang said. “They join our workshops, integrate into daily village life, and often purchase products before they leave.”
Yang’s success story is a microcosm of the broader shift from “selling products” to “selling lifestyles” in pursuit of greener spending habits. By championing green consumption and promoting low-carbon production and lifestyles, China is accelerating its green transformation while meeting people’s rising aspirations for a better life.
Traveling for events has become a popular “culture-sports-tourism” package in the country in recent years. Whether following a cycling race, attending an opera performance, sampling local customs, or exploring cultural relics, more and more urbanites are discovering China’s rural landscapes through fresh, green experiences.
In Guizhou Province, for example, a series of “village-branded” events such as the Village Super League (Cun Chao), Village Basketball Association (Cun BA), Village Song and Village Marathon have drawn strong tourist interest. Originating in Rongjiang County in 2023, the village football league attracted over 2.41 million visitors between Jan. 1 and May 5 this year, marking an 11.77 percent increase year on year.
“We chase the ‘Cun Chao’ not only for the football and local culture but also to immerse ourselves in local customs,” said Wu Qilin, a frequent visitor from Chengdu, southwest China’s Sichuan Province.
Data from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism show that in the first quarter of 2025, China’s rural tourism received 707 million visits, up 8.9 percent year on year.
Rural tourism has evolved from showcasing scenic landscapes to marketing local products, and has now progressed to offering immersive lifestyle experiences, said Yang Lu, deputy director of the Rongjiang County bureau of culture, sports, radio, television and tourism. “We expect visitors not only to enjoy the mountains and rivers but also to take home lasting memories and emotional connections.”
Beyond tourism, other industries are also embracing the green shift. In Guizhou, the heartland of sauce-flavor baijiu, a distilled spirit, local officials and entrepreneurs have urged a shift from merely “selling liquor” to “selling lifestyles” to better meet diverse consumer demands.
In Maotai Township, Zunyi City — the historic birthplace of China’s signature spirit — efforts are underway to develop showcase distilleries, gourmet streets and integrated liquor-tourism zones, all aimed at creating rich cultural and culinary experiences.
Distilleries in Maotai are transforming their approach by crafting immersive experiences that weave together the region’s landscapes, culture, cuisine, and renowned spirits, according to representatives from local distilleries.
This shift from simply selling liquor to promoting a holistic lifestyle not only revitalizes the industry but also supports the broader move toward sustainable, green consumption, they said. ■
