Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
The 9th China-South Asia Expo has secured deals worth over 8.66 billion yuan (around 1.21 billion U.S. dollars) so far, according to a press conference during the ongoing event held in Kunming, Yunnan Province, southwest China, on Monday.
According to the provincial department of commerce, a total of 163 agreements have been signed as of Monday. This includes 150 contracts valued at 8.3 billion yuan, 12 letters of intent totaling 213 million yuan, and one framework procurement agreement worth 150 million yuan.
The deals cover agricultural and food products, minerals, chemicals, machinery and equipment, as well as apparel, footwear, and headwear.
The expo has facilitated over 20 cooperation agreements focused on supply chain services, international logistics, overseas warehouse construction, and the development of smart port facilities.
Running from June 19th to 24th, the expo has drawn participants from 73 countries, regions, and international organizations. Over 2,500 enterprises are exhibiting, achieving full coverage of all South Asian and Southeast Asian countries.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Zimbabwe’s Kirsty Coventry took over the presidency of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) from Thomas Bach on Monday during a handover ceremony at the IOC headquarters in Lausanne, Switzerland.
IOC President Kirsty Coventry (L) receives the key from outgoing IOC President Thomas Bach during a president handover ceremony at Olympic House in Lausanne, Switzerland, June 23, 2025. (Xinhua/Lian Yi)
The 41-year-old former Olympic swimming champion, now the IOC’s 10th president, is the first woman and the first African to lead the global sports body in its 131-year history.
Outgoing President Bach paid tribute to IOC founder Pierre de Coubertin during the ceremony.
“Today is a day of gratitude. Today is a day of confidence. Today is a day of joy,” said Bach.
“There are many emotions I feel in this moment – but most of all, I feel gratitude. Gratitude, above all, to our beloved founder Pierre de Coubertin – whose body rests just a stone’s throw from here, and whose heart lies in ancient Olympia. To him we owe everything.”
Bach added: “I am sure, he is watching us today from his Olympic heights, with that familiar smile, and that he feels content to see his – our – Olympic Movement flourishing, true to his vision and more relevant than ever.”
The commitment at the 113th International Labour Organization conference to develop a binding Convention for securing decent work in the platform economy shows how disconnected and out of touch the New Zealand government is when it comes to employment rights.
“This decision is a huge step towards establishing internationally recognised labour rights for digital platform workers,” said NZCTU Te Kauae Kaimahi Secretary Melissa Ansell-Bridges.
“This is the mandate for much-needed regulation of digital labour platforms and by doing so, ensuring that innovation is not achieved at the expense of workers’ rights.
“It’s really telling, that while the international community comes together to support platform workers, Brooke van Velden has introduced a new Employment Relations Amendment Bill that will undermine the rights of those very workers in Aotearoa.
“Her Bill, which intends to misclassify workers as contractors and remove their legal right to challenge their employment status in court, is a severe undermining of worker rights. It is completely out of touch, and the Bill must be voted down”, said Ansell-Bridges.
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) issued a statement after the Iranian regime targeted the Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar with missiles.
Sen. Cruz said, “The Iranian regime is rogue and illegitimate, and is responsible for the murder, injury, and kidnapping of thousands of Americans. The Ayatollah had come within reach of acquiring a nuclear arsenal until our Israeli allies launched their recent and ongoing operation to end Iran’s nuclear weapons program. This weekend, President Trump took decisive action to fully disable the regime’s main nuclear facilities. The regime is weak, flailing, and lashing out dangerously. If harm comes to an American as a result of their continued violence, I have full confidence that President Trump will again respond decisively.”
HE President of the sisterly Republic of Turkiye, Recep Tayyip Erdogan met Saturday with HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, on the sidelines of the 51st Session of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), which is taking place in Istanbul, Turkiye.
At the outset of the meeting, HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs conveyed the greetings of HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani to HE the President of the Republic of Turkiye and His Highness’ wishes of good health and happiness to His Excellency and continued progress and prosperity for the Turkish people.
For his part, HE the President of the Republic of Turkiye entrusted HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs with his greetings to HH the Amir, wishing His Highness good health and happiness, and further development and growth for the Qatari people.
The meeting discussed bilateral cooperation relations and ways to support and enhance them, as well as the latest developments in the region, particularly in Gaza and the occupied Palestinian territories, the continued Israeli aggression on the territories of the Islamic Republic of Iran, in addition to a number of issues of mutual concern.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesperson: Advisory from a number of embassies to their citizens do not reflect the existence of specific threats
Doha – June 23
Dr. Majed bin Mohammed Al Ansari, Advisor to the Prime Minister and Minister and Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, indicated that the advisory issued by a number of embassies to their citizens to take precautions or avoid certain locations in the State of Qatar are part of the general policies followed by a number of countries regarding travel advisories and security updates for their citizens around the world, and do not necessarily reflect the existence of specific threats.
In a statement to the Qatar News Agency (QNA), Dr Al-Ansari stressed that the security situation in the country is stable, and that the relevant authorities are closely monitoring the situation and are ready to take all necessary measures to ensure the safety of citizens, residents, and visitors, and that they will keep the public informed of any developments that require alerts or action, emphasizing the need to obtain information from official sources.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson added that the State of Qatar continues to make active diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions in the region and maintain regional security and stability by engaging with key stakeholders and regional and international partners.
Advisor to Prime Minister and Official Spokesperson for Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Qatar Strongly Condemns Attack That Targeted Al-Udeid Air Base
Doha, June 23
Advisor to the Prime Minister and Official Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr. Majed bin Mohammed Al Ansari expressed the State of Qatar’s strong condemnation of the attack that targeted Al-Udeid Air Base by the Iranian Revolutionary Guard, and considered this a flagrant violation of the sovereignty of the State of Qatar, its airspace, international law, and the United Nations Charter. He affirmed that Qatar reserves the right to respond directly in a manner equivalent with the nature and scale of this brazen aggression, in line with international law.
In a statement to Qatar News Agency (QNA), Dr Al Ansari reassured that Qatar’s air defenses successfully thwarted the attack and intercepted the Iranian missiles.
The Advisor to the Prime Minister and Official Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs also emphasized that the continuation of such escalatory military actions will undermine security and stability in the region, dragging it into situations that could have catastrophic consequences for international peace and security, calling for the immediate cessation of all military actions and for a serious return to the negotiating table and dialogue.
Dr Al Ansari said the State of Qatar was one of the first countries to warn against the dangers of Israeli escalation in the region, and have consistently called for diplomatic solutions to be prioritized and have stressed the importance of good-neighborliness and avoiding escalation, reaffirming that dialogue is the only way to overcome the current crises and ensure the security of the region and the peace of its people.
The Advisor to the Prime Minister and Official Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs added that the base had been evacuated earlier, following established security and precautionary measures, given the tensions in the region. All necessary steps were taken to ensure the safety of personnel at the base, including Qatari Armed Forces members, friendly forces, and others, while confirming that no injuries or human casualties resulted from the attack.
HE Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi received a phone call on Monday from HE Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Hungary Peter Szijjarto.
During the call, they discussed cooperation relations between the two countries and ways to support and strengthen them, in addition to several topics of common concern.
HE the Hungarian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade affirmed the solidarity of the Hungarian people with the State of Qatar following the Iranian attack on its territory, noting that Qatar represents an important strategic ally for his country. He also commended its role in the release of three Hungarians who had been detained in Gaza.
Please attribute to Detective Senior Sergeant Lee Underhill, Wellington CIB
An investigation is underway following the discovery of human remains at an address in Ōwhiro Bay on Sunday (22 June).
On Monday afternoon a Police team were in the area after a homeowner located remains in his garden.
The remains have been identified as human, and enquiries will look to determine how old these remains are, followed by a formal identification process, which may take some time.
Anyone with information that may assist as to the identity of the remains and how they came to be at the location is encouraged to contact Police via 105, either over the phone or online.
The LGBTIQ+ population is comparatively young, with 1 in 10 people aged 15 to 29 years being LGBTIQ+ (10.2 percent) in the 2023 Census, compared with 1 in 20 adults in the overall adult population (4.9 percent), according to a report released by Stats NZ today.
LGBTIQ+ population of Aotearoa New Zealand: 2023 brings together information about the LGBTIQ+ population in the 2023 Census, as well as information on the LGBT+ population from the Household Economic Survey and the General Social Survey. The 2023 Census data has enabled detailed breakdowns of the LGBTIQ+ population and the groups within it, across age, ethnicity, and other census measures for the first time.
lder adults and people with disabilities may qualify for free emergency kits and batteries to stay safe during disasters.
Emergencies like wildfires, heat waves and floods can happen at any time. It’s important to be ready. But for many people, it’s hard to know where to begin. They also may not have money for supplies.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) saw that many people needed help getting ready for emergencies. This was especially true for older adults, people with physical disabilities, and those with intellectual or developmental disabilities (I/DD). Many of them rely on electricity for important medical and safety equipment.
To help, ODHS got support from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). Two ODHS programs — the Office of Aging and People with Disabilities (APD) and the Office of Developmental Disabilities Services (ODDS) — used ARPA funds to give emergency supplies to those in need.
What’s available now?
APD has about 18,000 emergency kits and 1,200 power stations available for older adults and people with physical disabilities who get Medicaid in-home supports. Those who qualify get long-term services and supports through APD and some county governments.
These items include:
Emergency kits — These kits are filled with supplies like flashlights, blankets, first aid items and food.
Power stations — These are portable, rechargeable batteries. They can provide power when the electricity is out.
If you think you qualify and want supplies, please contact your case manager. If you don’t know who your case manager is, call or visit the local office where you receive APD services. ODHS lists contact information for all state and county offices that provide services.
What has already been done?
APD has given out roughly:
2,000 emergency kits
500 power stations
ODDS worked with its partners to give out:
20,137 emergency kits
7,047 power stations
1,276 generators
Some ODDS partners held distribution events, trainings and emergency fairs. They also helped connect service providers with local emergency teams. These efforts reached 22,780 people, 478 service sites, and 41 emergency hubs across Oregon.
Being ready can make a big difference. ODHS is proud to support the safety and well-being of people across Oregon.
Associate Transport Minister James Meager has confirmed an additional $76.7 million for New Zealand Search and Rescue over three years, to ensure 12 organisations can continue their lifesaving operations. Additionally, the Government has announced an investment of $624,000 over the same period, to help maintain and improve recreational aviation safety across the country. “New Zealand has one of the largest and most challenging search and rescue regions in the world, so it’s vital to ensure they have necessary funding to deliver their critical services,” Mr Meager says. “Ensuring Kiwis are safe as they go about their activities, either for work or leisure, is one of the Government’s top transport priorities. “Last year, 152 lives were saved, 921 people were assisted and 794 people were rescued through the work of the search and rescue sector. This is thanks to the dedication of than 11,000 people involved in the industry – 80 per cent of whom are volunteers.” $542,000 will go towards the New Zealand Aviation Federation to deliver updated Instrument Flight Procedures at unattended aerodromes, which pilots use to safely take off and land at airports across the country. An $82,000 funding boost will also enhance safety at those sites, paying for further training and education to remind pilots of the necessary safety procedures. “The investment also underlines the Government’s commitment to helping grow our economy by supporting a safe and secure recreational aviation system,” Mr Meager says. “Many Kiwis and visitors love to get out and explore our beautiful country. Today’s announcements will help keep everyone safe when they’re outdoors – whether that’s on the land, water or in the air.”
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has held high-level talks with European Union leaders in Brussels, to underline the close ties between New Zealand and the EU.
“The European Union is one of New Zealand’s most trusted partners,” Mr Luxon says.
“This is something that was emphasised in my meetings with both EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and EU Council President António Costa.
“President von der Leyen and I discussed our commitment to the international rules-based system – something that’s more important than ever given the pressure on global security and prosperity.
“We also talked about opportunities to ramp up two-way trade under the EU-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement.
“New Zealand’s goods exports to the high-value EU market have already grown by more than $1 billion, a 25 percent increase since last year. But we know there is still scope to significantly increase this further with our premium New Zealand products.”
New Zealand and the EU are also collaborating on research, science and innovation through Horizon Europe, the world’s largest research funding programme.
“Our researchers are working together on 17 projects across a range of sectors, from hydrogen storage to bioprinting. By joining forces, we are driving scientific progress and innovation that delivers economic benefit for both our regions,” Mr Luxon says.
While in Belgium, Mr Luxon also visited New Zealand memorials and other significant sites across Flanders Fields, to pay respect to the thousands of Kiwi soldiers who served on the Western Front during World War I.
He now travels to the Netherlands where he will meet with Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof before attending the NATO Summit in The Hague.
Bowel cancer is no longer just a disease of the elderly. In Australia and around the world, there’s been a concerning rise in bowel cancer cases among people under 50, and no one yet knows exactly why.
Leading cancer researcher Professor Michael Samuel – from the Centre for Cancer Biology based at the University of South Australia and the Basil Hetzel Institute for Translational Health Research – is at the forefront of a major effort to find answers.
Backed by a $573,833 grant from Bowel Cancer Australia through Cancer Australia, his team has launched a three-year research project to uncover why younger people are increasingly affected and why a significant number of patients relapse after treatment.
“We’ve come a long way in the fight against bowel cancer,” Professor Samuel explains. “Thanks to better screening, fewer people are dying from it. But early-onset cases are growing, and that’s a mystery we urgently need to solve.”
Recent statistics from the University of Melbourne show that someone born in 1990 is up to three times more likely to be diagnosed with bowel cancer than someone born in 1950.
And the challenge doesn’t end with diagnosis.
About one-third of patients who have their bowel cancer surgically removed later see the cancer return, but there’s currently no way to predict who’s at risk. In people under 50 diagnosed with cancer, the relapse rate is closer to 50%.
“That means that some people are going through intense monitoring and therapy that they might not need, while others who opt out may end up facing a relapse that could have been prevented,” says Professor Samuel. “It’s not good enough. We need tools to predict, prevent, and personalise treatment.”
This is where the team’s breakthrough focus comes in: 10 key biomarkers. These biomarkers (chemicals produced by tumours) are being investigated as potential indicators of both the risk of developing early-onset bowel cancer and the likelihood of a recurrence.
Over the past 12 months, Professor Samuel’s team has worked intensively to lay the groundwork for this biomarker research. Their goal is to use what they learn to:
Identify people at higher risk of early-onset bowel cancer
Predict which patients are likely to experience a relapse
Help guide more accurate and personalised treatment plans
Reduce unnecessary treatments and the side effects they bring.
Bowel Cancer Australia CEO Julien Wiggins says the risk of being diagnosed before age 40 has more than doubled since 2000, and 1-in-9 new bowel cancer cases now occur in people under age 50.
“We need to know the “why” around the substantial increase in younger people getting bowel cancer,” he says. “Investing in innovative and collaborative research across all aspects of early-onset bowel cancer has the potential to improve survival and/or help build a path toward a cure.”
With the investigation into the 10 biomarkers now fully underway, this research offers hope for earlier detection, smarter treatment, and ultimately, better outcomes for bowel cancer patients of all ages.
This research project is a collaboration of the UniSA’s and SA Pathology’s Centre for Cancer Biology, the Central Adelaide Local Health Network’s (CALHN) and the Basil Hetzel Institute for Translational Health Research.
Professor Samuel discusses the project in this video.
Office of the Governor – Flag Order – Governor Green Lowers Flags in Honor of John Henry Felix
Posted on Jun 23, 2025 in Flag Orders, Latest Department News, Newsroom, Office of the Governor Press Releases
STATE OF HAWAIʻI KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI JOSH GREEN, M.D. GOVERNOR KE KIAʻĀINA
GOVERNOR GREEN LOWERS FLAGS IN HONOR OF JOHN HENRY FELIX
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 23, 2025
HONOLULU — Governor Josh Green, M.D., has ordered the United States and state of Hawai‘i flags to be flown at half-staff at all state offices and agencies, as well as the Hawai‘i National Guard, from sunrise on Tuesday, June 24 to sunset on Thursday, June 26. Memorial services will be on Wednesday, June 25.
“Few people have lived a life that reads more like an epic novel than John Henry Felix,” said Governor Green. “From assembling Red Cross care kits as a schoolboy for children caught in war, to risking his life in war zones to bring relief to refugees and orphans, to building institutions that continue to serve our people today, John Henry embodied service above self for over eight decades. His fingerprints are on the humanitarian infrastructure of entire regions — from Kalaupapa to Cambodia — and his work has saved and bettered the lives of untold thousands. Hawai‘i has lost a giant in compassion and public service. On the day we lower our flags, we honor not only his remarkable achievements but the boundless heart behind them.”
Born and raised in Honolulu, John Henry Felix dedicated his life to advancing the common good. His roles spanned Chair Emeritus of the Hawai‘i Red Cross, founder of multiple Red Cross Societies in the Pacific, field delegate in international relief efforts across Southeast Asia and Africa, Chair of the American Red Cross International Committee, and distinguished leader in the Boy Scouts of America and March of Dimes. Among countless honors, he was the first American to receive the International Red Cross Dunant Medal of Honor and was designated a Distinguished Eagle Scout.
Throughout his life, Felix demonstrated an unparalleled ability to merge bold vision with boots-on-the-ground action — whether it was building a prosthetics factory in Cambodia, leading refugee repatriation efforts, or personally comforting orphans in war-torn regions. His “Walking Blood Donor Program” in remote Pacific islands — a precursor to mobile blood banks — reflected his signature ingenuity and deep care.
# # #
Media Contacts: Erika Engle Press Secretary Office of the Governor, State of Hawai‘i Office: 808-586-0120 Email: [email protected]
Makana McClellan Director of Communications Office of the Governor, State of Hawaiʻi Cell: 808-265-0083 Email: [email protected]
WASHINGTON – Today, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) secured a legal victory in its efforts to remove the worst-of-the-worst illegal aliens. The U.S. Supreme Court issued a 6-3 order, staying a District Court’s order pending appeal with the U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit.
With this decision, DHS can finally exercise its undisputed authority to deport criminal illegal aliens–who are not wanted in their home country–to third countries that have agreed to accept them. This order comes after an activist judge caused Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents and the eight barbaric criminals to be stranded in Djibouti.
Attributable to Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin:
“The Supreme Court ruling is a victory for the safety and security of the American people. The Biden Administration allowed millions of illegal aliens to flood our country, and now, the Trump Administration can exercise its undisputed authority to remove these criminal illegal aliens and clean up this national security nightmare.
“If these activist judges had their way, aliens who are so uniquely barbaric that their own countries won’t take them back, including convicted murderers, child rapists and drug traffickers, would walk free on American streets.
“DHS can now execute its lawful authority and remove illegal aliens to a country willing to accept them.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Hakeem Jeffries (8th District of New York)
Today, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries held a press conference where he criticized the Rubber Stamp Republicans for not standing up for the American people while Donald Trump unleashes chaos, cruelty and corruption.
LEADER JEFFRIES: Good afternoon, everyone. The Trump administration continues to unleash chaos, cruelty and corruption on the American people. Donald Trump and extreme MAGA Republicans have been a complete and total failure domestically and internationally. Donald Trump promised that on day one of his presidency, he would end the war in Ukraine. He promised on day one of his presidency, he would free the hostages to bring about peace in the Middle East. And Donald Trump promised that on day one of his presidency, costs would go down in the United States of America. None of it has happened. Instead, costs in the United States of America aren’t going down, they’re going up. Donald Trump and extreme MAGA Republicans are crashing the economy in real time and driving us toward a possible recession. Donald Trump and House Republicans have not done a single thing to lower the high cost of living in the United States of America. Not a single thing. Instead, Republicans are trying to jam this One Big, Ugly Bill down the throats of the American people.
The GOP Tax Scam represents the largest cut to Medicaid in American history. It’s an all-out assault on the healthcare of the American people. Children, families, people with disabilities, seniors, veterans will all be hurt by the GOP Tax Scam. Premiums, copays and deductibles will go up for tens of millions of Americans. Hospitals will close. Nursing homes will shut down. Community-based health clinics will be unable to operate, and because more than 16 or so million people in America will lose their healthcare, people in this country will die. That’s what Republican governance has brought to the United States of America. The GOP Tax Scam will also cut nutritional assistance from the American people. Children and seniors and older Americans will literally have food ripped away from them. And this all-out assault on healthcare, this all-out assault on nutritional assistance, is being done by Republicans so they can provide their billionaire donors with massive tax breaks that they don’t need and don’t deserve. The one big, ugly Republican bill will hurt everyday Americans in order to reward billionaires.
At the same time, Donald Trump and his actions—which do not appear to be consistent with the United States Constitution—takes unilateral offensive military action without seeking the approval of the United States Congress. The use of military force, which is offensive in nature, must be approved by the House and the Senate. That’s according to the Constitution. It’s not optional, Donald. It’s not. The framers of the Constitution actually gave Congress the power to declare war for a reason. So the American people, through their elected representatives, would have the opportunity to debate the issue and make some decisions as it relates to what’s in the best interest and the national security of the American people. Donald Trump and the administration chose to ignore the Constitution. And so they’re going to have to come before Congress and explain their justification for an offensive military strike against Iran.
Yes, we can never allow Iran to become a nuclear power. And of course, Israel has the right to defend itself, and we’ll support Israel’s security in an ironclad manner. But the Trump administration intentionally decided to ignore the aggressive diplomacy that was available to it, to try to address the Iranian nuclear threat and ignore the requirements of the Constitution, and now they’ve got to explain why. And we expect that justification, not just at the classified briefing behind closed doors tomorrow, but we expect them to explain to the American people the basis of the strike. What were the results in terms of actually thwarting Iran’s capacity to become a nuclear power? And what are the Trump administration’s plans to avoid another potentially disastrous war in the Middle East, with thousands of American lives are potentially at risk? What is your plan to avoid another foreign war, a promise you made, a promise that Donald Trump made to the American people last year? And just like every other major promise that he made on the campaign trail, he’s failed to keep.
Can you please explain the different groups involved in the changes?
ISBsIndustry Skills Boards
Industry Skills Boards are new entities that will be established formally from 1 January 2026. They have a core role of standard setting for vocational education across their allocated sectors. They will also work to share the voice of industry and advise TEC about workforce needs. Each ISB will be set up through an Order in Council and will be industry led. (Six out of eight board members will come from industry.)
ISB EAGsIndustry Skills Boards Establishment Advisory Groups
These groups will exist from mid-2025 until the end of the year to support the establishment of the new ISBs. Their focus is on governance and organisation establishment rather than industry advocacy.
ITPsInstitutes of technology and polytechnics
ITPs are independent regional polytechnics that will be established in 2026. The location of the first of these will be decided by the government in mid-2025. Further decisions will be made during 2026.
ITP EAGsInstitutes of Technology and Polytechnics Establishment Advisory Groups
These groups will exist from mid-2025 until the end of the year to support the set-up of the ITPs that are being established at the beginning of 2026. Their focus is on establishing the regional polytechnics as they are split out from the national entity of Te Pūkenga.
ITOsIndustry training organisations
Before the Reform of Vocational Education in 2023, all work-based training was delivered by ITOs. In 2023, most work-based training done in ITOs moved into Te Pūkenga, becoming the work-based learning divisions. Many of the entities continued to use their ITO branding even though ITOs did not technically exist in the system from 2023. These work-based learning divisions of Te Pūkenga will move into ISBs on 1 January 2026, for up to two years.
PTEsPrivate training establishments
PTEs are registered with and quality assured by NZQA. They are training providers who have met specific requirements. Training providers (that are not a university, polytechnic or wānanga) must hold PTE registration to be eligible for TEC funding. PTEs may be companies or not-for-profit organisations.
VETVocational education and training
Vocational education and training includes all provision at Levels 3 to 7 (non-degree) of the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework, as well as Level 2 when it is delivered in the workplace. It does not include degree-level provision or foundation education. VET can be delivered in the workplace (work-based) in a classroom/campus setting (provider-based) or by distance and online learning (extramural).
TECTertiary Education Commission
TEC’s core role in the VET system is funding. We fund the provision at this level in line with funding mechanisms from government.
NZQANew Zealand Qualifications Authority
NZQA assures the quality and integrity of New Zealand qualifications. They register providers, quality assure programmes and, for some areas, act as a standard setter. They also oversee the Education (Pastoral Care of Tertiary and International Learners) Code of Practice.
Work-based learning divisions When the work-based learning divisions move into ISBs on 1 January 2026, will they stop enrolling new learners? No. At this point we expect that all work-based learning divisions will still be enrolling new learners from 1 January. When we have reached the point where there are sufficient providers for a sector, we will: (a) not fund additional providers; and (b) require ISBs to cease enrolling new learners (if provision remains with them). ISBs will have the role of informing TEC about the network of work-based learning provision (number and types of providers) that industry needs. This will inform the funding of new providers, and the expectations on the work-based learning divisions. ISBs will begin this work in January 2026, and we expect it to take time for them to gather this information from industry. Why is work-based learning moving to the ISBs? We appreciate that learners, employers and educators may have some concerns about possible disruption to work-based training because of the upcoming changes. The transition period (2026–2027) has been put in place to minimise disruption for learners and employers as the functions currently under Te Pūkenga work-based learning lift-and-shift unchanged into the ISBs. Will the work-based learning divisions of the new ISBs be able to continue developing programmes? Or does all new development stop on 1 January 2026? The focus for work-based learning during the transition period (where the training units sit within the ISBs) will be on preparing for transfer, rather than growing. There will, however, be cases where new standards, credentials or qualifications will be required to meet industry needs. In these cases, new provision will be supported. What is happening with ITOs? ITOs ceased to exist in 2022, although many Te Pūkenga work-based learning business divisions continued to use their old ITO names. Te Pūkenga work-based learning divisions will move temporarily into ISBs. This work-based learning will move into providers (including polytechnics, wānanga and PTEs) by 31 December 2027. Industry Skills Boards How many ISBs are there and what do they cover? We are currently awaiting decisions on the number of ISBs and their broad coverage. Further consultation will happen later this year when the ISB EAGs consult around detailed coverage as part of the Order in Council (OIC) process to formally establish the ISBs. Why are you putting standard setting and delivery/arranging of training back together? The training functions that are moving into the ISBs will only be there temporarily. By January 2028, no training will be delivered by ISBs. During the transition period, the training unit will sit within the ISB but will not be fully integrated into it. How will you ensure ISBs manage the conflict of interest involved with being both the standard setter and a training deliverer? During the transition period, each training unit will sit within the relevant ISB but will not be fully integrated into it, as this arrangement is only temporary. If industries are grouped together in one ISB, will they stop having unique qualifications? No. ISBs will be able to create and maintain standards, credentials and qualifications that are specific to the sectors they cover – in the same way Workforce Development Councils (WDCs) do. I am worried that ISBs will only look after work-based learning. ISBs will create and maintain standards, credentials and qualifications for all the sectors they cover at the vocational level. This will include products that support provider-based (including polytechnic) delivery, and extramural programmes as well as work-based learning. How will industry continue to have a voice in the system when there is only provider-based learning for their sector? An ISB will take on vocational standard setting for its entire sector, not just for the work-based learning elements. This means it will be responsible for all standards, credentials and qualifications for that sector. The term “industry” is very broad. When you say industry will inform choices who do you mean? ISBs have a role in communicating industry voice, and their governance will be industry led. ISBs will work with established industry groups and associations as well as employers and other sector stakeholders. ISBs will be expected to put in place mechanisms that identify the needs of all industries they represent. What expectations does TEC have regarding collaboration between the ISB Establishment Advisory Groups? We have an expectation for all ISBs and ISB Establishment Advisory Groups that they work together cooperatively, especially where the qualifications they cover will impact multiple sectors. What will happen to WDCs? What will be done to ensure expertise in WDCs is retained in the new system? The standard-setting functions of WDCs will continue until the end of 2025, when they will be disestablished and ISBs will be stood up. In the upcoming months, WDCs will develop plans to transfer relevant functions to ISBs. ISBs have a more targeted role than WDCs. It is expected that WDC staff involved in these functions will transition into ISBs. PTEs that deliver work-based training What happens to work-based learners and apprentices who are studying through a PTE? There is currently a small network of PTEs that are funded by TEC to deliver work-based learning. These PTEs will be able to continue enrolling and delivering the provision they currently do. All TEC funded providers are given a funding allocation for the year and their enrolments must stay within that allocation. There is no guarantee of funding for providers that enrol above their allocation. Who is responsible for determining who is eligible to become a new PTE or work-based provider? What will the criteria be? NZQA determines whether an organisation has the appropriate capability to become a registered provider (PTE). TEC determines whether the provider’s offering is suitable for government funding. Funding decisions will be informed by industry preferences about a network of provision. How does a PTE start being TEC funded to deliver work-based learning? Currently we will only fund new work-based learning PTEs in cases where the provider can demonstrate significant industry support. Our requirements for this will be stringent. For details, see Application to receive TEC funding. ISBs will work with industry during 2026 and beyond to understand the network of work-based learning provision that each sector needs. This information will inform TEC funding. Until this information is received, TEC will not have a clear picture of what provision will be both sustainable and sufficient to meet industry needs. In most cases we encourage providers to read the guidance information about what we are looking for in work-based learning and start to prepare for future opportunities. These same criteria will be applied to existing work-based learning providers that may wish to expand their provision. What are the new funding parameters for work-based learning? This is a critical pathway for all providers as business owners. See the TEC website for work-based learning funding rates. Managed apprenticeships Do Managed Apprentices stay with their Polytech provider or move to an ISB in January 2026? Currently, no changes are expected for Managed Apprentices already enrolled with a Polytechnic. We are currently working through the detail of what Managed Apprenticeships will look like in the future. Like other work-based provision, we do not want to see expansion before ISBs have had the opportunity to consider the network of provision needed for their sectors. The stand up of regional ITPs How do we find out which polytechnics will be standalone and which will be part of a federation? These decisions are being worked through. We will update this information when details are available. Will regional ITPs be able to offer programmes nationally? Institutes of Technology and Polytechnics (ITPs) are being set up to deliver regionally, to maximise the strength of local knowledge. We expect that this will be the main focus of their provision, however, we will consider other arrangements if these have the support of industry. Secondary/tertiary provision What is happening with standard setting and delivery for secondary to tertiary transition programmes like Gateway and Trades Academies? We will be looking at how these programmes will be supported, and expect this information to be covered in the transition plans developed by WDCs and Te Pūkenga work-based learning divisions.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Chinese Premier Li Qiang holds talks with Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, who is on an official visit to China, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, June 23, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
BEIJING, June 23 — Chinese Premier Li Qiang held talks with Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, who is on an official visit to China, in Beijing on Monday.
Noting that China and Singapore are friendly neighbors and important partners, Li said that under the strategic guidance of their leaders, the traditional friendship between China and Singapore has been continuously deepened since the establishment of diplomatic relations 35 years ago, with bilateral relations enhanced and practical cooperation achieving fruitful results.
He said that China is willing to work with Singapore to uphold the traditions of mutual respect and trust, equality and mutual benefits, while maintaining close high-level exchange, enhancing strategic communication, and consolidating political mutual trust.
Li said that China stands ready to make full use of its bilateral cooperation mechanism with Singapore, implement their cooperation plan for the joint construction of the Belt and Road Initiative, and expand and strengthen flagship cooperation projects. China is also ready to increase the scale of two-way trade and investment, actively expand cooperation in third-party markets, and foster new cooperative initiatives in areas such as the digital economy, the green economy, artificial intelligence, smart cities and ocean energy.
He called on the two countries to strengthen exchange in education, culture, tourism and media, and to adhere to open regionalism and true multilateralism, actively promote the liberalization and facilitation of trade and investment, and maintain the stability and smooth operations of global industrial and supply chains.
China is willing to work with ASEAN member states, including Singapore, to promote the timely signature and implementation of the upgraded Version 3.0 China-ASEAN Free Trade Area pact, implement the high-quality Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, and accelerate the process of regional economic integration, Li said.
Wong said that Singapore looks forward to maintaining close high-level exchange and cooperation in various fields with China, deepening friendship and mutual trust, and promoting flagship cooperation projects such as the Suzhou Industrial Park. It is also willing to explore cooperation potential in emerging fields such as the digital economy, the green economy, artificial intelligence and biomedicine, and to expand third-party cooperation and enhance people-to-people and cultural exchange.
Wong noted that Singapore is full of confidence in the Chinese economy, and is willing to enhance communication and collaboration with China on regional and multilateral platforms to safeguard free trade and the multilateral trading system.
Chinese Premier Li Qiang holds talks with Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, who is on an official visit to China, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, June 23, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BEIJING, June 23 — China has earmarked 300 million yuan (about 41.8 million U.S. dollars) of central government funding to support local authorities in dealing with natural disasters and carrying out emergency rescue efforts, the Ministry of Finance (MOF) said on Monday.
The funds, allocated by the MOF and the Ministry of Emergency Management, were provided to seven provincial-level regions, including Hunan, Guangdong, Chongqing, Guizhou and Hubei.
The funding support comes as some parts of south China experience heavy rains, leading to severe flooding and geological disasters in certain regions, according to the MOF.
The funds will be used for emergency response and rescue efforts, the evacuation and resettlement of affected people, the removal of hazardous objects, risk mitigation, and risk inspections to prevent secondary disasters, it said.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
ZHENGZHOU, June 23 — China Post has officially launched a new international cargo route between the central Chinese city of Zhengzhou and Luxembourg, with a freighter departing from Zhengzhou on Monday morning.
The route will initially operate one flight per week, with plans to increase frequency based on market demand. It will expand beyond traditional cross-border e-commerce to carry high-tech and high-value-added goods such as pharmaceuticals and precision manufacturing components, according to a China Post official.
Zhengzhou in Henan Province has been actively developing into an international air cargo hub in recent years. To date, 33 all-cargo airlines have launched 58 dedicated cargo routes from the city, including 43 international routes.
Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport handled 239,000 tonnes of international or regional cargo in the first five months of this year — a year-on-year increase of 45.8 percent.
USAG BAVARIA – HOHENFELS, Germany – The U.S. Army Lodging Operation of the Year Award recognizes outstanding performance and dedication in Army lodging operations, and U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria’s Army Lodging in Hohenfels recently received the award in the small category (1-60 rooms).
The Hohenfels lodging facilities were established 1951 and have since been integral to supporting training activities and operations.
“We are getting recognized for something that the team here has put a lot of hard work into over the last year, and I’m just really proud of what they’ve done,” said hotel manager Clifford Martin. “We focused a lot on customer service over the last couple of years, and I think we’ve been able to provide that to the guests, the Soldiers and our scores and our staff and everything reflects that at this point.”
Winning organizations exhibit outstanding leadership by prioritizing customer service, fostering strong employee relations, ensuring effective financial management, and optimizing back-of-house systems critical to maintaining seamless operations.
“Winning this award brings a lot of pride to me,” Martin said. “I’ve had the opportunity to really work with a great team. And in doing so, we’ve been able to offer a great facility to the guests for PCS and TDY into the Hohenfels area. So I am just really grateful and honored to have the team that we have here to be able to provide this service to the Soldiers.”
The Army lodging team in Hohenfels consists of 18 staff members, and together they take care of 40 guest rooms spread across six buildings.
“With everybody who is coming here, we are the first people that they come see, and we provide them with a place to stay and get them acclimatized to the area,” said assistant manager Marshall Smith. “And then we also support everybody going into the training area as they come and stay with us. So they have a place to come back to every night.”
Army lodging guests range from Department of Defense travelers on official business, military members and their Families traveling on permanent change of station orders, retirees and military Families
“This is a testament; it’s impressive to win this,” said USAG Bavaria commander Col. Stephen C. Flanagan, when he took part in the award presentation. “There are so many Army lodges all around the world, and you are one of the best. And it’s really important right now to take care of our warfighters and everyone that supports them coming through.”
The Hohenfels Army Lodging is dedicated to provide quality lodging and hospitality services to their patrons to support the garrison’s mission and the community.
“And I know you’re also working with older facilities, and we are working on that,” Flanagan said. ”What shines through is the customer service and the teamwork and that leaves everyone with a better experience. And you clearly go above and beyond to earn this award.”
Some of the buildings are from 1949; A new Army Lodging facility is planned for 2028. The new six-floor facility will offer 82 apartments.
Flanagan also presented the garrison coin to the lodging staff as part of the presentation.
A group of U.S. Army Soldiers lie in a field after exiting a UH-60 Black Hawk at the Joint Readiness Training Center, Fort Johnson, La., June 10, 2025. Soldiers practice entering and exiting the aircraft to enhance proficiency for real-world missions. (Photo Credit: Spc. Ruth Harrington)VIEW ORIGINAL
FORT POLK, La. – More than 4,000 Soldiers from the Iowa Army National Guard trained throughout June at Fort Polk, undergoing one of the Army’s most demanding combat training events in preparation for an upcoming overseas deployment.
Known since the Vietnam War era as “Tigerland,” Fort Polk and the Joint Readiness Training Center have become synonymous with forging combat-ready Soldiers through intense, realistic training. For Iowa’s 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 34th Infantry Division, this rotation marks a pivotal moment: their first full brigade deployment since 2010.
At the Joint Readiness Training Center, or JRTC, Soldiers are evaluated under pressure. Their minds are stressed, their physical limits are tested and their endurance is pushed to the edge. From junior enlisted Soldiers to senior Iowa Army National Guard leaders, all participants endure mental, physical and emotional exhaustion.
The JRTC is one of four Army combat training centers. The others are the Joint Multinational Readiness Cente in Hohenfels, Germany; the Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii; and the National Training Center at Fort Irwin, California.
The JRTC, however, is known for being the most grueling. The simulated combat environment, complete with force-on-force scenarios and constant stressors, provides Soldiers with some of the most realistic training they will encounter in their careers.
“There are a lot of methods that we use to test Soldiers while they’re in the training area. One is simply the stress and pressure of combat,” said Brig. Gen. Derek Adams, the senior trainer for rotation 25-08. “We try to simulate that as best we can.”
Soldiers assigned to 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 34th Infantry Division, take part in a briefing on upcoming operations at Joint Readiness Training Center, Fort Johnson, La., June 7, 2025. Rotational units at JRTC synchronize battle rhythms to ensure mission success during the 21-day training cycle. (Photo Credit: U.S. Army photo by Spc. Diana Nguyen)VIEW ORIGINAL
As the senior trainer, Adams works closely with observer-coach/trainers and the JRTC leadership to design, execute and evaluate the training rotation. He coordinates with the operations group, which oversees the exercise, monitors unit performance across all warfighting functions and delivers objective feedback through after-action reviews to improve readiness at every level.
“JRTC emphasizes DOD’s priorities of lethality, warfighting and readiness by training the entire brigade combat team, from the individual Soldiers to the brigade combat team level,” Adams said. “It’s a large, complex organization, and this training reflects that.”
This type of training marks a broader shift in Army doctrine.
The Army is transitioning from the counterinsurgency operations of the past two decades to large-scale combat operations, or LSCO. Large-scale combat operations prepare Soldiers for potential conflicts with near-peer adversaries by emphasizing large-scale maneuvers, complex logistics and sustained combat power.
“LSCO changes sustainment operations sheerly in the magnitude of what occurs,” said Col. Tony Smithhart, commander of the 734th Regional Support Group. “You’re talking about large numbers of Soldiers, large numbers of equipment.”
A U.S. Soldier assigned to the 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 34th Infantry Division, pulls security at the Joint Readiness Training Center, Fort Polk, La., June 15, 2025. JRTC is designed to improve unit readiness through force-on-force exercises that prepare Soldiers for missions they may be assigned in real-world operations. (Photo Credit: U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Ryan Reed)VIEW ORIGINAL
The Regional Support Group is structured to provide logistical support to up to 20,000 Soldiers in a deployed environment. As the Regional Support Command for the JRTC, the RSG was tasked with coordinating all sustainment efforts. This included feeding more than 5,800 Soldiers, managing medical treatment and staging and preparing more than 2,500 pieces of equipment for operation.
Planning for the JRTC began more than a year before the first boots hit the ground.
“I made my first trip to Fort Polk about 18 months ago to determine the actual area we’d operate in,” Smithhart said. “Since then, my team at the 734th Regional Support Group has returned about six times to coordinate with Fort Polk staff, validate our node concepts and rehearse operations to support reception, staging, onward integration and base camp management.”
The JRTC has earned its reputation. The environment is humid and rainy, the terrain is unforgiving and the scenarios evolve constantly.
All of these factors come together to form a stressful and taxing exercise, but one that will toughen Soldiers. Despite numerous aspects working against them, the Soldiers of the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 34th Infantry Division, proved they not only have the grit to complete their upcoming deployment successfully but also to complete any mission that is asked of them.
“The scale of this operation is critical to the development of our Soldiers,” Smithhart said. “It’s been called a generational training opportunity, and I believe that’s accurate.”
U.S. Army Sgt. Joseline Sosa, a forward observer with 1st Battalion, 178th Infantry Regiment, Illinois Army National Guard, relays information to her Polish counterparts during training in remote observation techniques in Toruń, Poland, June 6, 2025. The Illinois National Guard and Poland are partners in the Department of Defense National Guard State Partnership Program, which pairs Guard elements with partner nations worldwide for mutual training and subject matter expert exchanges. Servicemembers with the 33rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team are spending two weeks alongside their Polish counterparts training on sniper operations, the Javelin anti-tank weapon system, combat medical care, and remote observer techniques. (Photo Credit: U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Amber Peck)VIEW ORIGINAL
TORUŃ, Poland — Soldiers with the 33rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, Illinois Army National Guard, recently spent two weeks in Torún, Poland, training alongside members of the Polish Territorial Defence Force.
Since 1993, the Illinois National Guard and Poland have been partners in the Department of Defense National Guard State Partnership Program — an initiative that pairs Guard elements with partner nations worldwide for joint military training and subject matter expert exchanges.
The recent two-week training focused on sniper operations, combat medical care, the Javelin anti-tank weapon system and remote observer techniques.
For the sniper teams, the goal was to strengthen leadership skills in employing and overseeing sniper sections as well as developing advanced sniper expertise.
U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Bruno Rios, a cavalry scout with C Troop, 2nd Battalion, 106th Cavalry Regiment, Illinois Army National Guard, confirms that the weapon of his Polish counterpart is clear of ammunition following the completion of a shooting drill at a range near Toruń, Poland, June 7, 2025. The Illinois National Guard and Poland are partners in the Department of Defense National Guard State Partnership Program, which pairs Guard elements with partner nations worldwide for mutual training and subject matter expert exchanges. Servicemembers with the 33rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team are spending two weeks alongside their Polish counterparts training on sniper operations, the Javelin anti-tank weapon system, combat medical care, and remote observer techniques. (Photo Credit: U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Amber Peck)VIEW ORIGINAL
“Our goal as a training team is to ensure we are equipping the Polish snipers with the tools to employ themselves against drones and thermal environments,” said Sgt. 1st Class Hussein Mashal, an infantryman with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 178th Infantry Regiment, Illinois Army National Guard. “By merging our techniques with theirs and the lessons learned from the Ukrainian war, we hope to strengthen their sniper employment capabilities and survivability.”
In the medical realm, Soldiers with the Illinois Army Guard’s C Company, 634th Brigade Support Battalion, shared casualty care treatment procedures — from the point of injury to the final point of care.
This iteration included complex training scenarios that allowed participants to triage and evaluate casualties in a realistic, stressful simulated combat environment.
“It’s always worth it working with the National Guard,” said Polish TDF 2nd Lt. Jakub Piotrowski, a medical team member and instructor. “We do the same things in different ways so it’s worthwhile to see how a different army is doing the same thing and then be able to cooperate with it.”
U.S. Army Sgt. Michael Rojas, a cavalry scout with C Troop, 2nd Squadron, 106th Cavalry Regiment, Illinois Army National Guard, observes as a Polish Territorial Defence soldier engages targets on a range near Toruń, Poland, June 7, 2025. The Illinois National Guard and Poland are partners in the Department of Defense National Guard State Partnership Program, which pairs Guard elements with partner nations worldwide for mutual training and subject matter expert exchanges. Servicemembers with the 33rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team are spending two weeks alongside their Polish counterparts training on sniper operations, the Javelin anti-tank weapon system, combat medical care, and remote observer techniques. (Photo Credit: U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Amber Peck)VIEW ORIGINAL
Javelin instructors echoed that sentiment.
“The Polish soldiers were extremely motivated and eager to learn,” said U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Nicholas Broden, a training noncommissioned officer with C Company, 1st Bn., 178th Inf. Regt. “They were always asking questions and were very hands on with the equipment.”
Previous training exchanges meant many of the Polish soldiers already had foundational knowledge of the Javelin systems. That allowed the training to advance quickly to more strategic and tactical discussions, said Broden.
For the forward observer teams — or remote observers — the focus was on establishing the fundamental skills for indirect fire coordination, a capability the TDF is actively strengthening as they expand artillery capabilities.
“We started off pretty basic with basic call for fire and then basic joint fires observer skills,” said U.S. Army Master Sgt. William Aitken, an operations NCO with the 33rd IBCT. “It’s kind of an abbreviated forward observer program for the TDF.”
U.S. Army Sgt. Joseline Sosa, a forward observer with 1st Battalion, 178th Infantry Regiment, Illinois Army National Guard, receives information from her Polish counterparts during training on remote observer techniques in Toruń, Poland, June 6, 2025. The Illinois National Guard and Poland are partners in the Department of Defense National Guard State Partnership Program, which pairs Guard elements with partner nations worldwide for mutual training and subject matter expert exchanges. Servicemembers with the 33rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team are spending two weeks alongside their Polish counterparts training on sniper operations, the Javelin anti-tank weapon system, combat medical care, and remote observer techniques. (Photo Credit: U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Amber Peck)VIEW ORIGINAL
The training also included high tech capabilities — such as employing small drones – combined with improvised concealment techniques to help Polish soldiers observe from a distance while staying hidden. The team practiced setting up hasty observation posts, coordinating drone feeds with command elements, and minimizing visual and electronic signatures — skills directly influenced by lessons learned from the war in Ukraine.
Overall, the training helped strengthen and continue the 30-plus year partnership.
“Our partnership with Poland, which began in 1993 and included 19 years of co-deployments to Afghanistan and Iraq, is the gold standard of deployments,” said U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Lenny Williams, the Illinois National Guard’s assistant adjutant general for Army. “We learn, we teach and we develop new tactics and techniques together with each critical knowledge exchange event. Our capabilities have improved, we’ve expanded our capacity and our partnership has grown even stronger the past two weeks.”
Gene Willie Strahan Jr., a devoted automotive mechanic, beloved colleague and cherished friend, passed away on June 10, 2025. (Photo Credit: U.S. Army)VIEW ORIGINAL
VICENZA, Italy – The military communities of U.S. Army Garrison Italy, including Vicenza and Camp Darby, are mourning the loss of Gene Willie Strahan Jr., a devoted automotive mechanic, beloved colleague and cherished friend.
Strahan knew cars—especially BMWs, his favorite. Friends described him as a gentle giant who loved car shows, fishing and spending time with his tiny dog, Thor.
A U.S. Army veteran, Strahan served in Germany in the 1980s. As a civilian, he began working in Mannheim, Germany. He later moved to Camp Darby, where he worked as a contractor and later at the post exchange. Many remember him from his time at Camp Darby’s Auto Skills Center. Following downsizing there, Strahan relocated to Vicenza, where he worked at the Auto Skills Center, part of the Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation.
Strahan’s love of cars translated to a sincere dedication to community members who sought his help. He offered mechanical expertise to soldiers and civilians at Caserma Ederle with humility and genuine warmth. A few minutes in the shop with Strahan often felt more like catching up with an old friend than speaking with a mechanic.
Over the years, Strahan earned several awards for his work. But his joy came from engaging with the community and making connections that lasted.
News of his June 10 passing sparked an outpouring of online condolences from Americans and Italians in Vicenza and Camp Darby, as well as friends around the world who remembered his kindness during their time in Italy.
Jimmy Roddy, DFMWR’s Business Recreation Division chief, first met Strahan 24 years ago at Camp Darby. There, Strahan helped organize the summer car show and became known for offering help to anyone with automotive issues.
“A big guy, big smile with a bigger heart—always helpful,” Roddy said. “He was very low-key, for as big as he was. He was a gentle giant.”
Strahan loved to fish as much as he loved cars. Mostly, he loved helping the community solve their auto repair problems. (Photo Credit: U.S. Army)VIEW ORIGINAL
Nicknamed “The Frenchman” by fishing buddies, Strahan was born on Dec. 7, 1963 in France into a military family. He grew up around Army bases, to include time in Germany.
Timothy Gordon, a friend from the Camp Darby days, recalled spending long hours fishing Italian rivers with him—a tradition that continued after both relocated to Vicenza. Another shared passion was cars.
“If you asked him about a BMW, he could tell you about it from top to bottom,” Gordon said.
In Vicenza, Strahan was often seen with Thor, a canine companion that went with him nearly everywhere.
“The smallest dog you could imagine with the biggest man you could ever imagine,” Gordon said. “People would just watch them walk down the road. He just loved small dogs.”
Strahan also befriended Soldiers, including Spc. Haron Palomo, a volunteer at the Auto Skills Center. Over the past two years, they joked, shared stories and discussed car repairs while Palomo restored a 1993 Honda Civic. As he did with other customers, Strahan offered tips on finding affordable parts.
“Sadly, he didn’t get to see it finished,” Palomo said.
Strahan is survived by his mother, daughter, sister and brothers, including Michael Strahan, a television host and former professional football player.
A memorial service will be held at noon on June 25 at Caserma Ederle’s Chapel. A second service is scheduled for noon on June 26 at Camp Darby’s chapel.
Dwayne D. Key II, deputy to the garrison commander at USAG Bavaria and Professor Dr. med. Clemens Bulitta, president of OTH Amberg-Weiden, signed thepartnership contract May 22, 2025. (Photo Credit: Simmel, Natalie )VIEW ORIGINAL
TOWER BARRACKS, Germany – U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria and Ostbayerische Technische Hochschule Amberg-Weiden celebrated their official partnership May 22, 2025, marking the beginning of an initiative that creates an innovative learning environment.
This partnership aims to support and promote the exchange between practical and theoretical learning, which is achieved by integrating OTH students and faculty into real-world projects with USAG Bavaria.
“This is a massive win-win,” said Dwayne D. Key II, deputy to the garrison commander at USAG Bavaria. “I’m most excited not just about meeting the students and seeing ourselves through their eyes. And I think this present generation of learners is so phenomenal.”
With the support of 120 professors across its four faculties and 54 degree programs, OTH Amberg-Weiden serves approximately 4,200 students and is known for its innovative, future-oriented education.
Professor Dr. med. Clemens Bulitta, president of OTH Amberg-Weiden, emphasized the importance of this new addition to the university’s partnership network.
“It’s all about networking and about bringing people together,” Bulitta said. “When you bring people together, they will exchange thoughts, create ideas, become innovative, and they will drive and strengthen partnership and push developments. And now you become part of this network and the doors are opening on both sides.”
“This partnership drives innovation,” said Lukas Miserra, management analyst for USAG Bavaria. “It strengthens USAG Bavaria by integrating academic expertise and fostering collaboration between students and professionals with the garrison, providing valuable insights and practical experience.”
Both sides expressed enthusiasm for growing the partnership and involving more regional actors in future cooperation.
“There’s so much linked here in in this region and such a longstanding tradition of exchange between the communities,” Bulitta said. “We want to get to the point where young people become part of this exchange culture. Bringing people together opens options.”
Minister for Mental Health Matt Doocey has welcomed prescribing changes that will enable GPs and nurse practitioners to diagnose and treat adults with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
“I applaud Pharmac and Medsafe’s decision to widen prescribing rules for ADHD medicines from next February, this decision will give New Zealanders faster access to assessments and treatment,” Mr Doocey says.
“This is a common-sense change that will make a meaningful difference in many lives of New Zealanders. I have heard stories of many people with ADHD who have been unable to get a diagnosis and treatment in a timely manner because of long wait items and costs associated with seeing a specialist.”
Currently, GPs and nurse practitioners can only prescribe ADHD medicines to patients with a written recommendation from a paediatrician or psychiatrist, or after someone has already been diagnosed and had their first prescription.
“This is a great step forward for timely access to support and for system efficiency. A number of our GPs and nurse practitioners are already working closely with psychiatrists to treat ADHD, so they already have the skills to manage this work,” Mr Doocey says.
“It is still crucial that we balance risks. The Ministry of Health is working with sector representatives to develop a clinical principles framework for the assessment and treatment of ADHD. This will ensure there is quality and consistency for supporting patients with ADHD in New Zealand.
“I want to acknowledge the many advocates with lived experience and others who have spent years advocating for this change. This decision is based on the recommendations received from both healthcare practitioners and patients.
“We have heard your feedback loud and clear, and we know the positive impact this decision will have on many people’s ability to access what is often life-changing medicines.”
This change is only one in a suite of measures to increase access to ADHD medicines. Last year, Pharmac also removed the requirement for funded access to stimulant medicines to be renewed every two years and is funding a new ADHD medicine, lisdexamfetamine.
Note to editors:
Health agencies will be working closely with health sector groups over the next few months to support these changes. Not all GPs and nurse practitioners will be equipped to carry out this work immediately after the regulatory changes come into effect.
For younger people under 18, this change will allow nurse practitioners working within a multidisciplinary setting as part of paediatric or child and adolescent mental health services to diagnose and start treatment for ADHD.
From February 2026, general practitioners (GPs) and nurse practitioners will be able to start medical treatment for adults with ADHD, following decisions by Medsafe and Pharmac.
This is a change to the current system, under which GPs and nurse practitioners can only prescribe ADHD stimulant medicines to patients on a written recommendation from a paediatrician or psychiatrist, or after someone has already been diagnosed with ADHD and given a first prescription.
Pharmac’s Acting Director Advice and Assessment, Catherine Epps says the new rules, which come into effect in February 2026, will mean that over time, more GPs and nurse practitioners will be able to diagnose and start adults on treatment for ADHD. For children and adolescents, who currently require input from a paediatrician or psychiatrist to initiate medical treatment for ADHD, the changes will allow nurse practitioners, working within child health or mental health services, to diagnose and start treatment for ADHD.
“The decision, which is based on feedback from psychiatrists, paediatricians, GPs, nurse practitioners and patients, is one of many changes we are making to increase access to ADHD medicines. It follows our decision last year to remove the two-yearly renewal criteria for these medicines, making it easier to access ongoing treatment,” says Epps.
Medsafe Group Manager Chris James says the change draws on the skills of GPs and nurse practitioners to improve access to ADHD treatment for the public.
“We have a workforce of highly experienced general practitioners and nurse practitioners, a number of whom are already working closely with specialists to treat patients with ADHD. Implementing this change will mean they can do this work more quickly and efficiently without needing to wait for approval from a specialist.
“It’s important we ensure a high quality of ADHD assessment, and that people can expect to receive appropriate care and support. We have been working closely with sector representatives to develop a clinical framework which will set out principles for diagnosing and treating ADHD, including the appropriate clinical care required of healthcare practitioners,” says Chris James.
Earlier this year, Medsafe and Pharmac asked for feedback on the proposal to change the regulatory and funding restrictions for stimulant treatments for ADHD. More than 940 people and organisations responded to the consultation.
Overall, most of the feedback was supportive. People explained how this decision will improve access to diagnosis and treatment for people with ADHD.
Some were concerned about the supply issues affecting methylphenidate, and the impact this decision would have on it.
To respond to these concerns, health agencies have delayed the implementation date of the decision. It will now come into effect in February 2026, rather than July 2025.
This will also allow more time for more GP and nurse practitioners to develop further clinical expertise to begin assessing adults for ADHD and initiating their treatment.
Dexamfetamine, lisdexamfetamine, and methylphenidate are medicines used in the treatment of ADHD. They are classified as Class B controlled drugs by the Misuse of Drugs Act 1975.
Approval from the Minister of Health is needed for doctors and nurse practitioners to prescribe these medicines. The approval process is the responsibility of the Ministry of Health and is done by Medsafe.
Currently, to be diagnosed with ADHD, a person needs to see a psychiatrist or a paediatrician. To start on ADHD medicines, they need to be prescribed by a psychiatrist or a paediatrician, or by a doctor or nurse practitioner with a written recommendation.
The Ministry of Health is changing the approval notices for these medicines, so that more general and nurse practitioners are able to prescribe them.
We expect that more doctors and nurse practitioners will be able to assess and diagnose people with ADHD over time.